You know the adage: Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue. But where does “something that fits into my budget” work into that equation? Spend your money where it counts on your wedding day, without compromising quality.
We’ve compiled our first-ever Washingtonian Bride & Groom “Deals” list, an offshoot of the popular Washingtonian “Deals” column, printed each month in the magazine. Unless otherwise noted, these packages are available for the entire month of June by mentioning Washingtonian Bride & Groom at the time of reservation, or by using code WASHINGTONIAN online.
Sweet as Candy
Leave guests with a sweet impression of your big day. New DC-based event company Candy Bar DC will help arrange special candy arrangements and candy bars for your guests. Customize them based on your wedding theme, using different styles of jars, color schemes, and even types of tasty candy. This month, enjoy a 15 percent discount on all orders, starting at $100 for jar rental and $300 and up for candy bar arrangements.
Destination Dreams and Virtual Planning Divas
Wedding planner Lesley Cohen knows a thing or two about arranging a wedding—in addition to running a high-end wedding planning business, Cohen started wedding venue website Venue Safari to help brides understand the ins and outs of selecting the perfect wedding venue. Cohen’s firm, LelyCo Events, helps brides plan weddings near and far. Whether you need a consultation with Cohen to help gain inspiration for your DIY event or want full-scale planning for a local or destination wedding, she has a package for you. Save 15 percent on all packages booked in the month of June for virtual or on-site wedding planning. A planner consultation for venue selection or an event decor consult starts at $300, and planning services begin at $1,800 for month-of assistance.
Get-Gorgeous Glow
Be beautiful and bronzed on your Big Day. DC-based Whole Glow is a mobile organic sunless tanning salon that uses the same products beloved by names like Jessica Alba and Paris Hilton. This streak-free formula lets brides and guests alike enjoy a natural, beachy glow that will last for seven to ten days. Owner Katie DePaola comes to your home with a mobile tan tent—or you can visit her DC-based salon for the treatment. It’s the perfect way to glow before an engagement photo session, wedding weekend, or bachelorette party, and she’s happy to arrange a group tan session. Enjoy a discount of 15 percent on groups of up to three people ($51), 20 percent on groups of four or more ($45). Mobile services also incur a $10 service fee and a $1 per mile fee each way, per group, not per person. 18th and Swann sts., NW; 301-758-3676.
Elegant Eveningwear
Carine’s Bridal Atelier in Georgetown has long been one of the area’s most recognized and trusted names in wedding fashion. This month, ’maids, moms, and wedding party attendees will have a chance to explore Carine’s collection of eveningwear from designers such as Badgley Mischka, Carmen Marc Valvo, Theia, Carolina Herrera, and Notte by Marchesa, and benefit from a sweet discount. Take 15 percent off all non-sale evening wear during the month of June when you bring in a copy of this post at purchase. 1726 Wisconsin Ave., NW; 202-965-4696.
Fab Frocks
Your wedding is a beautiful day—but what happens if you don’t want to preserve your dress in a pretty box for all eternity? You consign it, of course. Fabulous Frocks of Alexandria specializes in couture, once-wed, sample, and even a handful of gorgeous never-worn gowns by names like Vera Wang, Monique Lhuillier, Marchesa, Oscar de la Renta, and more—all in amazing condition. Bridesmaids can also get in on the fun with new-to-order dresses by Jenny Yoo and new-to-order accessories and veils by Sara Gabriel and Meg Jewelry. Now through July 31 (yes, July!) take 10 percent off any bridal gown purchase or bridesmaid order, and 15 percent off accessories. Just be sure to mention Washingtonian Bride & Groom when making an appointment. 1901b Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria; 703-683-2306.
Marvelous Makeup
Pamper and primp for your special day in the comfort of your own home with the services of DC-based makeup artist Pallavi Sharma and C’est Jolie Makeup Artistry. Sharma will walk brides through a one-on-one consultation and makeup trial, just to ensure perfection on the big day. You can even use her services for your bridal party and family members. Prices start at $125 for bridal makeup, with $25 for trial sessions and a $40 travel fee. Washingtonian readers save 15 percent on all services booked in the month of June, although the services can be redeemed later if you require. Visit the website www.makemejolie.com or the Facebook page facebook.com/make.me.jolie for a full profile.
Bling’s the Thing
You will remember your wedding day jewelry forever—why not ensure the pieces you sport were made just for you? DC-based Kanupriya Jewelry sells one-of-a-kind accessories at retailers like Saks Jandel, Anthropologie, Hysteria, and Charm. This month take 15 percent off all orders placed through the website, and enjoy the kind of one-stop shopping experience all brides in search of gorgeous gems hope for.
Perfect Planning
Margo Fischer, owner of The Bright Occasions, specializes in planning with an eye for detail. Whether you’re a couple looking for modern, classic, big, small, simple, or glam, Fischer has you covered on your big day and all the ones leading up to it. Save 20 percent on three hours of wedding planning help booked in the month of June, which normally costs $150. The deal includes a face-to-face consultation to review one or more of the following areas: budget, vendor contracts and negotiation tips, and design ideas, including solutions for high-impact/low-cost decor. This package is great for a DIY bride who needs some expert planning help—and the deal can also be applied toward full wedding planning or wedding coordination services.
Want to participate in an upcoming “Deals” column? Contact McLean Robbins at mclean@mcleanrobbins.com.
