Weddings

Bride on a Budget: October Deals

Proposing, accessorizing, choosing desserts—the details of a wedding can be overwhelming, but we’re at least easing the stress on your checkbook.

“Aviara” headpiece by the Feathered Head. Photograph by Tatum Kathleen Photography/hair and makeup by Mollie Shepardson.

We’re rapidly moving toward what we like to call prime wedding season, with brides and soon-to-be brides getting ready to say “I do” and “I will” all over Washington. To celebrate, we’ve got another month’s worth of exclusive deals for our readers, just in time to head into battle—er, wedding planning.

To obtain any of these promotions, simply mention the magazine when purchasing, or use the code “Washingtonian” when ordering online.

Set the Stage for a Proposal

If you’re engaged, you already know the first question out of everyone’s mouth is: “How’d he do it?” No pressure, but proposing sets the steps in motion for a lifetime together—how your SO opts to pop the question is pretty huge. Blueprint Proposals understands unique ideas are not always easy to come by, which is why the company specializes in designing personalized marriage proposals for all styles, relationships, and, of course, budgets. Blueprint is offering an exclusive deal: two marriage proposal ideas for the price of one ($125, regularly $250). After you fill out a “relationship questionnaire,” Blueprint’s proposal experts will customize two proposal ideas and give you the tools to implement either one flawlessly. Don’t want to deal with all the details? Get 15 percent off the full-scale Proposal Planning service and let the company do it all for you. Just mention the magazine in the “how did you find out about us” box when placing your order. Now all you have to do is show up with the ring.

Sweet Treats

Whether you’re planning for the big day, a bridal shower, or a bachelorette fete, something sweet is a must for the menu. And while we all love cake, those multilayer slices of sugary heaven aren’t exactly doing wonders for our waistlines. Thank goodness for Itty Bitty Cake Company, a Fairfax-based bakery that specializes in cake bites, which look as elegant as truffles and taste like cake pops without the stick. This month, brides and bridal party members can order their favorite flavors for 15 percent off. Just call 571-533-5939 and mention Washingtonian Bride & Groom.

Haute Headpieces

Birdcage veils, fascinators, and other such hair accoutrements are all the rage these days. Select a design that complements your look with a custom headpiece handmade by the Feathered Head, or opt for a stylish headband as a gift or accessory for your ’maids or flower girls. This month, take 15 percent off your order when you use the code “Washingtonian” at checkout.

Fashionable MOB Wear

Designer Sarah Phillips got her start working with some of fashion’s biggest houses, including Christian Dior and YSL, but she’s perhaps best known for creating Hillary Clinton’s navy blue, jewel-encrusted evening gown for husband Bill Clinton’s 1993 inauguration. She now works under her own label, producing custom pieces for discerning clients worldwide. Let her design a made-to-order evening jacket from luxe duchesse silk for the mother of the bride or your bridesmaids. All orders placed in October are 15 percent off for Bride & Groom readers. To schedule a consultation, please e-mail julie.pny@gmail.com or call 860-488-0562.

Cool Colored Gems

Designer Shamila Jiwa is known for pairing bright semiprecious stones and metals to form custom creations, from eye-catching cocktail rings to enchanting pendants. She specializes in colored-stone engagement rings as well as other fine jewels, and you’ll find a variety of pieces perfect for the big day or special events leading up to the occasion. This month, readers can take 15 percent off all in-stock and custom orders when they mention the magazine. Visit her website for a selection of available pieces.