Bridal Styles

Thanks to an introduction from Larry’s best friend, Frances and her handsome sweetie’s love story began! Our gorgeous bride knew she’d met her match almost from the moment they met for one very important reason. From Frances:

“He always made me feel like the only girl in the room, and continues to do so.”

Frances & Larry, custom Swarovski encrusted hair comb – Bridal Styles Boutique, photography – Matthew Sowa

A romantic, Larry proposed in a heart-stopping, unforgettable way:

“After a horse and carriage ride in Central Park, he got down on one knee! He’d even arranged for a photographer to hide and capture the magical moment.”

Frances, custom Art Deco hair comb, CZ bracelet, cathedral veil – Bridal Styles Boutique, photography – Matthew Sowa

For these two lovebirds, the next 11 months were spent planning the wedding of their dreams. In fact, Frances says that Larry was her biggest helper and that she couldn’t have done it without him! Still, even with her groom by her side, organizing their spectacular, antique-inspired, red-hued celebration at New Jersey’s Pleasantdale Chateau was no easy task. From Frances:

“It was extremely stressful! It is a lot more to take on than anyone ever imagines it will be. But can be very rewarding in the end when your vision comes to life.

I was going for a very dramatic, unconventional wedding and look. I wanted lots of drama, deep reds and dripping candles with antique silver fixtures. I wanted all antique details. I love Art Deco jewelry! Hence my beautiful antique set engagement ring.

We both have a thing for skulls, so our custom cake topper was the perfect touch to add a piece of who we are without being too over the top. Also having a red reception is not typical, most brides opt for white, I am more of a red kind of gal. We wanted everything highly stylized, from all of the stationery to the decor to each and every vendor we had. Nothing was understated or simple.

Thanks to my vendors, it all came to life on my wedding day. Aramat Events did all of my decor, they are the best. Everything looked exactly the way I wanted it to and I owe that to them. Fusion Lighting brought my vision of projecting roses all throughout my wedding, it was one of the most beautiful and memorable aspects of my entire wedding. Finally, Matthew Sowa captured it all. He is a true artist, rather than just your average wedding photographer, and he did a phenomenal job.“

Frances & Larry, headpiece, custom lace edged cathedral veil, CZ jewelry  - Bridal Styles Boutique, photography – Matthew Sowa

Frances’s unique vision, love for vintage jewelry, and penchant for glamour also influenced her wedding day look. After choosing a dramatic, mermaid Kenneth Pool wedding gown with a peek-a-boo tulle skirt and dazzling belt, she visited us to put the finishing touches on her bridal ensemble, which included a custom designed 1920s-inspired comb, a custom-made lace edged veil and fabulous jewelry.
From Frances:

“Bridal Styles has the largest selection of gorgeous jeweled accessories out there. They helped me sparkle and completed my dream look with all of the Art Deco pieces that I love.”

Frances & Larry, Swarovski  hair comb, bespoke lace cathedral veil- Bridal Styles Boutique, photography – Matthew Sowa

After waiting almost a year for the day to arrive, our beautiful bride-to-be focused on enjoying the moment.

“I tried my best not to let anything get me flustered, I stayed calm throughout the entire morning and process of getting ready (some champagne is necessary). It really helped to start the day calm and not let the nerves and anxiety get to you, I wanted to take in and enjoy the day as much as a bride possibly can.”

On such an incredible day, Frances says one moment stands out among the rest:

“The ceremony, I love, love, loved everything about our magical wedding ceremony.”

Frances & Larry, spectacular lace cathedral veil, Art Deco CZ jewelry - Bridal Styles Boutique, photography – Matthew Sowa

Now husband and wife, Larry and Frances have this advice for other planning brides and grooms:

“Having meltdowns and freaking out is very very normal…we ALL go through it. Try on as many dresses as you possibly can before purchasing one, its the only way you will truly see what looks right on you and what you feel the most beautiful in. And also try to walk around your wedding and notice all of the things you worked so hard in preparing for, the day goes by quickly and you will wish you took more time to look at everything. Oh and take the time to take lots of photos with your very closest loved ones and family, you will wish you had more!”

Frances & Larry, photography – Matthew Sowa Cake by City Sweets and Confections

Frances & Larry, vintage inspired bracelet, earrings, crystal  comb - Bridal Styles Boutique, photography – Matthew Sowa

Thank you so much for sharing your day with us, you two, and best wishes!