Congratulations!!! We are rewarding ourselves!

Thanks to all of our client's for voting for us AGAIN!!!!

It is our pleasure and pride to help each bride find their perfect wedding dress and make their dreams come true!

Thank you for letting us be a small part on your wonderful day!

DIY: Dream, Inspire, Yearn

Your weddings just around the corner, you've been trying to budget but no matter how many numbers you add or subtract you still end up passing that magic number. So the question is how do I stay within a budget and still have the wedding of my dreams?

Do-It-Yourself!!!!!

There are many creative ideas that can help you save but also can be a great way to make memories with your bridesmaids or your groom-to-be.

DIY: Guestbook

Normally, the guestbook is used to keep track of everyone who came to the wedding, but when you create your own there are endless opportunities to have a timeless piece. Most people, when they sign a regular guestbook they just leave their name and address but with your imagination a guestbook can become so much more!!!!

Ceramic Platter - Guests sign a white ceramic platter (or frame, mugs, tiles tray, etc) using Pebeo Porcelaine 150 paint markers.Guests sign, draw and design on your platter and then it is baked in the oven at 300 degrees for a half hour. This makes it completely permanent and dishwasher safe. However, it is not recommended to actually serve food on this paint, even though it is non-toxic. I'd imagine that most people will keep this as a keepsake instead of a functional item anyway.

• Silver Engraved Platter - Like the ceramic platter above but cool in its own way, you can purchase a "silver" platter with a diamond tip pen so that guests permanently engrave their names and messages into your platter.

Aprons, Frames and More - A great idea is to have your guests sign the back of the engagement photo at the reception or you can use the cardboard backing from a photo frame. Make sure to use permant markers that won't run, if writing on a semi-gloss pictures make sure to check with your local store to find the best pen. Similar wedding guest book alternative ideas are shirts, pillows, ornaments, tapestries, wall-hangings, table cloths and table runners.

Individual Cards - Another fun option is to set out small cards and matching envelopes. A sign could explain to the guests to write a bit of marriage advice, quotes or anything they'd like to share on the cards. The cards can then be simply placed in a decorative basket. The beauty of this wedding guest book alternative idea is that the messages are private so guests feel more free to write what they want. It is tons of fun for the bride and groom to later open all these tiny cards with personal messages inside. The cards get more and more funny as the night goes on too!

DIY: Centerpieces

Easy Fruit Centerpiece - Instead of using tons of marbles or crystals that run up the bill when it comes to creating your centerpiece, you can use your favorite fruits. Fruits can bring a beautiful aroma to the table and as well it can complement your wedding colors. You can also customize it by using different vases, flowers, leaves, and even sliced fruit!!!

Mason Jar Centerpiece - One of the cheapest do it yourself wedding centerpiece ideas is to arrange your flowers in decorated mason jars. Mason jars are cheap, available anywhere and come in several sizes to create a variety of wedding reception centerpiece arrangements. After all, spending hundreds of dollars on vases is a waste if the flowers are the main visual element of your wedding centerpieces.

The Pros & Cons Of Writing Your Own Vows

Have you ever thought about whether or not you should go with the standard traditional wedding vows or write your own? Do you even know what the actual traditional wedding vows say? Well thanks to The Knot, I found a great article that can start us with seeing what the traditional vows are and whether you think you they are something you would like to use at your ceremony.

Catholic Wedding Vows

"I, ___, take you, ___, for my lawful wife/husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and health, until death do us part."

Or:

"I, ___, take you, ___, to be my husband/wife. I promise to be true to you in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health. I will love and honor you all the days of my life."

Episcopal Wedding Vows

"In the name of God, I, ___, take you, ___, to be my husband/wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and health, to love and to cherish, until we are parted by death -- this is my solemn vow."

Hindu Wedding Vows

Traditional Hindu wedding ceremonies are elaborate and complex. The bride and groom recite many beautiful words to each other, often including the vow-like phrases: "Let us take the fourth step, to acquire knowledge, happiness, and harmony by mutual love and trust. Finally, let us take the seventh step and become true companions and remain lifelong partners by this wedlock."

Jewish Wedding Vows

In a traditional Jewish wedding -- Orthodox and sometimes Conservative -- only the groom speaks his vows, which can be recited in both Hebrew and English. The original vow is (in English transliteration), "Haray at mekudeshet lee beh-taba'at zo keh-dat Moshe veh-Yisrael," which translates into, "Behold, you are consecrated to me with this ring according to the laws of Moses and Israel."

In Reform, some Conservative, and other contemporary Jewish ceremonies, the man and woman both recite vows, slightly altered from the traditional Hebrew version: "Haray ata mekudash lee beh-taba'at zo keh-dat Moshe veh-Israel." Another version of non-traditional vows is a phrase from the Song of Songs: "Ani leh-dodee veh-dodee lee," which means, "I am my beloved's, and my beloved is mine."

Muslim Wedding Vows

Most Muslim couples do not recite vows, but rather heed the words of the imam (cleric), who speaks about the meaning of marriage and the couple's responsibilities to each other and to Allah during the nikah, or ceremony. At the end of this ritual, the couple consents to become husband and wife, and they are blessed by the congregation. However, some Muslim brides and grooms do recite vows -- here is a common recitation:

Bride: "I, ___, offer you myself in marriage in accordance with the instructions of the Holy Quran and the Holy Prophet, peace and blessing be upon him. I pledge, in honesty and with sincerity, to be for you an obedient and faithful wife."
Groom: "I pledge, in honesty and sincerity, to be for you a faithful and helpful husband."

Protestant Wedding Vows

"I, ___, take thee, ___, to be my wedded husband/wife, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part, according to God's holy ordinance; and thereto I pledge thee my faith/myself to you."

Quaker Wedding Vows

"In the presence of God and these our friends I take thee to be my husband/wife, promising with Divine assistance to be unto thee a loving and faithful husband/wife so long as we both shall live."

Russian Orthodox Wedding Vows

Many branches of the Orthodox church use silent vows during the ceremony -- an introspective prayer in which the couple promises to be loyal and loving to each other. In the Russian tradition, however, vows are spoken out loud: "I, ___, take you, ___, as my wedded wife/husband and I promise you love, honor, and respect; to be faithful to you, and not to forsake you until death do us part. So help me God, one in the Holy Trinity, and all the Saints."

-- The Knot

Not satisfied...well let's get starting on writing our vows!!!

1) Where did you meet him/her? What was it like when you first met? What feeling do you remember having at that exact moment? Was it love at first sight?

These are all questions you want to be asking yourself because this exact moment is what lead the both of you to this point in your life.

2) When did you realize you were in love? At what moment did you and him exchange those first words?

3) What does he/her do in your life that makes it better? Think of your Before And After.

4) Where do you see yourself together in 10 years? 20 years? etc....

5) Do you want to keep part of the traditional vows?

Keep your mind and emotions open, think about what really brought you to this point in your life, and how your significant other has helped you there.

Send in your examples of wedding vows you've written and we will post them right here!!!!

marysbridal@aol.com

So Many Choices...But Only One Is Your Dream Dress

Whether your getting married a month or a year from now, every bride has imagined themselves walking down the aisle in that "perfect dress." But than reality sits in...and you realize you are not 5'10" and 115 lbs like the model from the runway show. The best thing about wedding gowns is that most of the time your gown is sitting right in front of you without you even being aware of it. Each dress is made to give a specific shape, silouette, and image; depending on what you imagine a bridal consultant can give you multiple options to choose from and help you make the best choice for your big day.

A-Line

The A-line dress features a shape that is fitted around the bodice and flows out to the ground, resembling the outline of an uppercase A. The dress flows fluidly from the bust to the hem with an unbroken line. Due to its classic and simple style, the A-line dress is appropriate for any occasion, from a quiet backyard gathering, to a traditional church ceremony.

For My Body Type?: The A-line dress is flattering on almost all body types. The long lines of the princess cut dress can create the illusion of height on a shorter body, as well as slim down a rounded figure. The full skirt of the A-line can also hide a larger lower body, or create the illusion of curves on a narrow frame. Since the A-line dress is so versatile, simple modifications to the neckline, waistline, or fabric can accentuate your best features and hide those your not so fond of.

Empire

An empire dress is defined by the raised waistline that sits just below the bust, from which the rest of the dress flows down to the hem. This style is usually paired with a square neckline and wide set straps or sleeves. Like the A-line, the empire style is very versatile and can accommodate a wide range of formality.

For My Body Type?: While the empire dress fits well on most body types, it is especially suited for those brides with a smaller bust since it draws attention to the neckline and creates definition. Added accents and fabric embellishments, such as capped sleeves or delicate bead work, will help to draw attention to your chest and neckline, and therefore create the illusion of a fuller bust.Oddly enough, this cut can also work to conceal a large bust by controlling and minimizing the size of your breasts due to the traditionally square neckline of the empire dress.

The design of the empire dress is also ideal for covering other unwanted body features such as a long torso, short legs, or a pear shaped figure. Since the dress flows from the bust line, it can easily leave these areas undefined. The structure of the empire dress is also ideal for pregnant brides since the fluidity of the dress can accommodate a growing belly.

Fit and Flare

The fit and flare dress has a narrow shape that flows straight down from the neckline to the hem. This dress, also referred to as a sheath, tends to hug the body and show any and all of your curves The fit and flare is appropriate for all types of weddings, especially causal occasions on the beach, or intimate evening events at a banquet hall.

For My Body Type?: Similar to the mermaid style, the fit and flare dress is best worn by lean figures, both short and tall. The elongating nature of this design will help petite brides appear taller. However, the fit and flare dress does not allow much room for hiding problem areas, such as a larger lower body. It can conceal minor flaws if you opt for a constructed column that will stay in place, but the slip style will be unforgiving. Also, boxy figures that do not have natural curves may consider accenting the waistline with a separate bodice or sash to create the illusion of a defined waist. Beware: Body hugging designs such as a fit and flare dress can constrict your movement, including the ability to sit and dance as comfortably as you would wish on your big day.; If you want a highly-constructed column dress, you may consider one that has pleats or gathering in the back that will allow you to move more freely. Ballgown The ball gown style is perfect for those brides envisioning a fairy tale wedding. This silhouette pairs a fitted bodice with a full skirt that can either be one piece or separates. The ball gown is most appropriate for large, traditional weddings where the dress will be consistent with the formality of the event. For My Body Type?: While this style can accommodate most body types, the ball gown is ideal for slender or pear-shaped figures as the full skirt helps to accentuate the waist and hide the lower body. If you have a large bust, this style will help to create the hourglass look since it emphasizes the waistline due to the fitted bodice and natural or dropped waist. Beware: The volume of the ball gown can create false and unwanted illusions. Be careful if you are on the shorter side since you may not have the height to balance the size of the skirt. Also, instead of complimenting the figure of a full-breasted bride, the skirt could actually cause her to look larger. Keep these factors in mind when considering a ball gown, and remember that an A-line or princess cut dress can be more flattering while still providing the desired effect. Mermaid The mermaid silhouette contours to the body from the chest to the knee, then flares out to the hem. This is a very sexy look that highlights the curves of a woman’s body. For this reason, you must be confident and comfortable in your skin to pull off this dramatic style. For My Body Type?: The mermaid cut is not for everyone. This daring design is best worn by slender figures, both short and tall. Since the mermaid dress is made to hug the body and show every curve, it is not well suited for those brides with full figures. However, if you are on the voluptuous side and want to accentuate your curves, this is the perfect dress for you. The most important thing to keep in mind when considering a Mermaid style dress is whether or not you will feel comfortable wearing it on your big day. You may have a flawless figure perfect for this type of dress, but if you do not feel confident in it, it is not worth choosing. Beware: Clingy slip dress such as the mermaid often reveal embarrassing underwear lines. These lines not only reveal what you are wearing under the dress, but also take away from the elegance of your overall look. It is important to keep this in mind when considering a tight fitting or body hugging dress since it may restrict what items you are actually able to wear underneath the dress.

Destination Wedding: Have You Looked Around The Corner?

Historic Oakland Mansion

Event Space for 150 Banquet to 200 Reception

Nestled in a peaceful wooded area, Historic Oakland stands proudly in rural splendor. Built in 1811 in the popular federalist style, today it is a charming blend of Federal, Greek and Colonial Revival Periods. Its lovely Bishop's Garden offers you a spectacular sampling of plantings popular in the early nineteenth century. It is truly one of the most beautiful and historic buildings in Howard County

Evergreen House

Event Space for 80 Banquet to 800 Reception with a Tent

Evergreen House, an impressive 1857 Italianate mansion, is conveniently located between the Baltimore Beltway (I-695) and the Inner Harbor. This 26-acre estate was bequeathed to the Johns Hopkins University by the Garrett family of Baltimore and serves as one the city's most popular house tours, as well as the site for memorable events. The historic 1870's wood paneled Carriage House is an unusual setting for large wedding receptions, meetings and banquets. In the Main House guests may enjoy cocktails in Evergreen's formal drawing room and rare book library, surrounded by Alice Warder Garrett's vast Impressionist painting collection, sculpture and Tiffany glass. The North Wing offers Baltimore's only private theater, decorated by Ballet Russe costume and set designers, Leon Bakst, for stunning dinner parties and corporate receptions. Evergreen's terraced formal gardens provided a beautiful backdrop for tents and corporate picnic. This historical estate on the edge of the city with its plentiful private parking is a magnificent setting for any event.

Liriodendron
Event Space for 125 Banquet Indoor to 200 guests with Outdoor Terraces

Palladian style mansion, built in 1898, is the former summer home of Laetitia and Howard Kelly. Howard Kelly was a founding member of the Johns Hopkins Medical Collage. The Liriodendron is adorned with terraced lawns and boxwood gardens. Porch, terrace and gardens are an ideal location for outdoor parties and wedding ceremonies. Smaller rooms also available for unique corporate meeting space.

Pintail Yachts

Duchess Princess holds up to 130 people seated

Top deck holds 75 with standing room for ceremonies. Since 1997, Annapolis-based Pintail Yachts has provided the enchantment behind thousands of events in the Baltimore and Annapolis area - from intimate weddings to lavish corporate parties.

The Cloisters

Event Space for 120 Banquet with Dancing, 150 Banquet and 200 Reception

The Cloisters is located on a 53-acre estate in Brooklandville, Maryland. The design of the house is based on the late medieval French and English architecture. The construction of the house took several years and was completed in 1930. "Cloisters" is an architectural term used to define a covered walkway with an open colonnade on one side, usually enclosing a garden. The Cloisters is conveniently located off of I-83 on Falls Road.

Celebrations at the Bay

Event Space holds up to 300 people

Beautiful Waterfront ceremonies and receptions. Ballrooms up to 250+ guests. Amazing view, fabulous food, stress-free planning, complete coordination.es All-inclusive reception packages, Dance floor, Handicapped accessible, On-site wedding coordinators, Self Parking, Valet Parking.

Strathmore

Event Space holds more than 400

One location, two stunning settings to choose from for your dream day. The Mansion at Strathmore is an intimate turn-of-the-century Georgian mansion set high atop a hill. The Music Center at Strathmore is a magnificent light-filled contemporary building nestled into a pastoral hillside. Plus, we offer custom catering by world-class chefs in an on-site kitchen. All just 1/2 mile north of the beltway on Rockville Pike. Call us to create your special day.

Baltimore's Tremont Grand

Event Space holds up to 250 people

In the heart of downtown Baltimore, the majestic Tremont Grand is the area’s premier wedding and event facility. The Grand creates an enchanting ambiance with classic architecture and modern elegance. White gloved service, decadent décor, and savory cuisine at an affordable price makes this a one of a kind venue.

Gramercy Mansion

Event Space holds up to 200 people

Baltimore's best-kept secret! Escape to the serenity and charm of a historic Tudor Mansion crowning landscaped gardens with breathtaking valley views. Antique-furnished public rooms and a covered, garden terrace provide a fairytale backdrop for special celebrations with elegantly appointed guest rooms available for overnight accommodations.