The Dress 2.0: Vow to be Chic

A few weeks ago, I was on an inspirational roller coaster. I had just come back from a social media workshop, and my mind was running wild. I was so inspired that I truly believed I could do anything! I had been thinking of revamping “The Dress” section of my site for a while now, so I figured I’d try something a little different. I garnered up the courage and decided to contact online boutique, Vow to be Chic, in hopes of working on a collaboration. And guess what? It actually happened! 

Vow to be Chic has been on my radar for some time now. The brand features luxury designer gowns/dresses for any member of your bridal party. "Are you telling me I can rent a bridesmaid gown instead of purchasing one?" Absolutely! I’ve never been a bridesmaid, but according to my friends, it can be pretty pricey. But just in case you fall in love, you most definitley have the option to buy! I believe that Vow to be Chic is ahead of the game when it comes to fashion and affordability. I want women to know that they have options when it comes to saying “yes to the dress”, whether they're a bridesmaid or a bride!

So, how does it work? It's all so very simple! You pick your wedding date, select the dress (it even comes with a backup size too!) and when you're done, simply return it along with its pre-paid postage and that's it! And for a small fee, Vow to be Chic even lets you try-on BEFORE you rent! Amazing, right?!

My intention was never to model for this post, but I guess crazier things have happened. Let me just say, modeling is hard work! The ladies at VTBC really made my blog dreams come true by sending me a few bridal styles to play with. A girl can get used to this!

Enjoy!

Suzie by Erin Featherston

What I loved: The print! There's been a growing trend with prints on bridal attire lately and I’m loving it. This style was really fun to wear! The fit-and-flare silhouette just made me want to dance and spin! The fabric was extremely soft and comfortable. 

Where I'd wear it: Garden Wedding or somewhere artsy like Wynwood

Amy by Jill Jill Stuart

What I loved: The sweetheart neckline. This dress was classic and had a vintage feel to it. The floral pattern was also a treat! Simple, yet sweet! I felt very romantic in this lil’ number. 

Where I’d wear it: Aywhere really! The beach, a yacht ceremoy or here

Elizabeth by Tadashi Shoji

What I loved: The pattern/design. I wasn't really sure about this dress at first, but it actually turned out to be my favorite style! Elizabeth made me feel like a woman. I felt very confident and elegant; I was ready to conquer the world!

Where I'd wear it: A historical building or Coral Gables' City Hall

Harlow by Nicole Miller

What I loved: The illusion neckline and lace. I don't know why, but as soon as I tried her on, I let loose! It was the perfect LWD! I felt very much like a bride. 

Where I'd wear it: Anywhere and everywhere!

A very special thanks to Tracey Moses of Vow to be Chic for allowing me to play dress-up for you all! Hilda Maria Acosta for providing the camera equipment, Cynthia Bon for her photography skills and the coolest sunnies EVER, and lastly, my father for letting us use his bachelor pad on short notice. Thank you!

The Tiny Shindig

You have the space, so why not use it to your advantage? Having a backyard shindig is perfect for couples that can really relate to the saying, "Home is where the heart is!" What a perfect way to tie the knot without having your stomach in a knot - stressing about showing up to a venue on time, and all the other worries that come along with pre-wedding jitters. Get hitched in the comfort of your home, your parents', or even a close friend's humble abode. Heck, you can even rent a stranger's home on sites such as Airbnb or Homeaway.(if owners allow it of course.) 

Whatever you decide, just have a little faith and it'll all turn out just fine! Check out the list below for a lil' inspiration. 

This post is slightly geared towards my Miami residents. If you need any additional ideas, shoot me an email and i'll do my best to find vendors in your home city!
 

1. Create a budget! All great events must begin with a budget!
2. Make a guest list. Yes, you must make one in order to calculate what supplies you’ll need! In my opinion, a small wedding consists of anywhere between 10-60 guests. 
3. Get an officiant, or if renewing your vows, get a friend to perform the ceremony! There's nothing like having someone who knows you two lovebirds like the back of their hand be apart of your big day.
4. Hire valet or ask your neighbors if they are willing to lend their parking spaces. You can even offer them a slice of cake from Bunnie Cakes or tell them to stop by for a signature cocktail as a token of your appreciation.
5. Need to spruce up the place? Consider furniture rental. Unearthed Vintage provides the trendiest, vintage-chic collection in South Florida.
6. Need some centerpieces? Some pretty bunches of Baby's Breath in mason jars will do!
7. Cater from your favorite local restaurant. If the food makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside, chances are your guests will feel the same way too. 
8. Go to Costco/BJs for some bottles! My husband prefers vodka and was given a HUGE bottle for Christmas. The quality and price were superb! Set up a station where guests can serve themselves OR If you know they love to indulge in that "dancing juice" a little too much, hire a bartender for portion control. Another option: Hitched Affair - Only the coolest mobile bar in Miami.
9. Need some music? No Prob! Create an eclectic playlist and use portable speakers.
10. Make a flower wall as a cool backdrop for photo ops. 
11. Get a photographer to capture the party. Since you're not having a traditional 6-8 hour wedding, some photographers may be willing to create a special package for you. Don’t be afraid to ask!
12. I don’t know if it's because we’re getting older or what, but our friends and I have the most fun when we stay in and play games. Board games, card games, games on apps, you name it! "Games at a wedding? Why?" Well, why not! 

If you're reading this...

...we've tied the knot! We were going to wait until the end of 2016 to say 'I do', but we figured, why wait? So in two months time, we planned our nuptials and got hitched! Be sure to be on the lookout for all the details in the 'Our Tiny Day' section within the next few weeks. Until then, you can view our proposal video(s) down below. Much thanks to all our friends and family who supported our decision to do things our way. We really appreciate it!  - Jazmin & Jason 

Click on the HD icon for better quality!

MVI_0831 from Jazmin Larralde on Vimeo.

Proposal continued from Jazmin Larralde on Vimeo.