ORLANDO BRIDAL DESIGNER, PROPOSAL ETIQUETTE & DISNEY BRIDAL STROLL

ORLANDO BRIDAL DESIGNER SHOWCASE

The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes hosted a bridal fashion show and champagne meet-and-greet with Orlando designer Rania Hatoum, who shared her  2012 bridal collection she had just debuted the weekend prior at New York’s Fashion Week. Front-row seats afforded close-up views of Rania’s designs, many of which featured incredible beadwork, with unique patterns that were perfectly tailored. The Dunrobin (pictured here) was a collection stand-out, with elements reminiscent of Kate Middleton’s wedding gown but with an understated back that was  completely elegant. I’m more of the traditional type and prefer long gowns for formal affairs, but some of her short dresses would be nice as second-wedding dresses or as a dress change for the reception. Themed “Once Upon a Time,” the inspiration for Rania’s 2012 collection included specific castles and landmarks from around the world. She took architectural shapes and textures from each castle and translated that into her designs to create graceful and modern wedding gowns. Some of the muses were Kilkenny Castle in Ireland, De Haar Castle in The Netherlands, Matsumoto Castle in Japan, and Boldt Castle in New York. Rania is based in Orlando with a showroom located downtown that is by appointment only. The International Academy of Design and Technology graduate spent several years in New York studying under a designer before launching her own line. Rania also does custom gowns at her showroom downtown, making this a wonderful opportunity for local brides to work with professional designer to create unique wedding gowns to suit their personal styles and tastes. Call to schedule an appointment 407-690-4268 and view her complete collection online at www.RaniaHatoum.com
 

PROPOSAL ETIQUETTE

Like every girl, I love the latest trend, whether it’s fashion, interior decorating or weddings. But go ahead and call me old-fashioned on this one: I still believe that the man should do all the planning when it comes to popping the big question. I know a recently engaged bride that took the bull by the horns by picking out her own ring (everything except buying it); selecting the date, time and venue where she was to be presented with her proposal; and even coordinating the couple’s outfits to be worn during this momentous occasion. I know times are changing, but that’s a bit much for me. I do, however, believe it’s very important for your man to be familiar with your likes/dislikes, especially when it comes to ring styles, but I think he should take the lead on the proposal and designing and selecting the ring, unless, of course, he asks you to pick it out. I know a rewrite may be coming, but for now, the ole etiquette handbook still says a man is to ask the father’s permission for his daughter’s hand in marriage. Again, call me old-fashioned, but I find this an honorable thing to do. It shows your bride’s family respect and your intentions for a life together with their daughter. The proposal also is a chance for men to plan something wonderfully special for you — to see the surprise on your face. Even the most unromantic man gets pride, enjoyment, and oftentimes creative ideas, from wedding proposals. Even if you know your man is about to pop the question, for your own sanity, don’t bug him about the who, what and when. Once you’re engaged, you—the bride— will become the center of attention, so let your man have this moment to shine and express his love for you in his own words and actions. But be sure to share your unique proposal stories with us, you may end up in print: Email Editor@OrlWedding.com

DOWNTOWN DISNEY BRIDAL STROLL

Looking for a fairytale wedding? The first-ever Downtown Disney Bridal Stroll will give you the opportunity to meet with Downtown Disney Resort Hotels, Downtown Disney Restaurants and other wedding vendors as they present distinctive possibilities for your wedding day. As you visit each hotel enjoy wonderful treats and a chance to win a variety of prizes. Register for the event at www.DowntownDisneyHotels.com/weddings

When: November 6, 2011
Time: 11am-3pm

Participating Resorts: Lake Buena Vista Resort Hotel, Buena Vista Palace Hotel & Spa, Doubletree Guest Suites Lake Buena Vista, Hilton Orlando Resort, Holiday Inn Lake Buena Vista, Royal Plaza Resort and Wyndham Lake Buena Vista

Participating Restaurants: Planet Hollywood, Portobello, Fulton’s Crab House, Wolfgang Puck, TRex, House of Blues, Raglan Road, Bongos and Rainforest Cafe