ESB's Top Picks: Versatile Wedding Looks For Any Ceremony

This year has been anything but predictable especially for the wedding industry. We’ve seen brides go from planning their all-out- 250+ wedding-extravaganzas to creating on-the-fly backyard, city-park, or even in-home ceremonies.

For that reason, we have found that providing versatile wedding gown options is a MUST for the modern bride! Below Team Elite has compiled our top favorite wedding looks a bride can use for a “mini-mony”, future grand-celebration and everything in between! We were sure to include the not-so-traditional looks for every bridal style! Enjoy!

The Bridal Separates. This trend has grown in popularity, especially for the COVID bride as many couples are choosing to get married this year in smaller, more intimate ceremonies with the plans to host a larger event when it is safe for all their guests to attend! We LOVE a detachable skirt-giving the creative bride the option to wear a wedding gown in two very different ways! One for her ceremony and a totally new look for a future event or her reception! 

. The Bridal Jumpsuit. We have seen a growing demand for the bridal jumpsuit for the bride who is laid back, creative and fashion forward! We don’t think this trend is going anywhere especially as we see more brides creatively tie-the-knot! From backyard, destination, to a second wedding look, The Bridal Jumpsuit is SO what we needed this year! And YES a bride can wear black, hunny! It’s 2020!

The “Must Travel” Destination Gown. Planning weddings has become an adventurous affair as more brides are opting to travel to safe, far-off destinations with their significant others to intimately celebrate their union. That’s why we’ve been LOVING the versatility in the design of these stunning gowns that can be easily packed in a suitcase and worn on a mountain top or beach!

The Wedding Cape. Last but not least, let’s talk about the wedding cape! Brides are switching it up this year and opting for a cape to gracefully drape their frames instead of the traditional, sometimes heavy veil. We can’t get enough of this look as it is paired here with our favorite jumpsuit or traditional gown! The sky’s the limit on this chic and dramatic accessory

Want more wedding style advice? Book an appointment with Elite Secrets Bridal today. We have experienced bridal stylists in our showroom ready to assist you.

Your Spring Beauty Weekend is Here!

Spring is in the air! Despite's the COVID-19, this weekend women everywhere can enjoy flowers bouquets, chocolates, diamonds, and something we just added to their Mother’s Day celebration. The temperature may not cooperate but that won’t stop showing moms everywhere, how much they are loved! Exciting, right? Well, to most this sounds endearing, but if you are are looking for the special gift for mom, we have just the thing for you. Get ready for the huge smile on her face when gifting this gift. Most women love the glamour that comes along with makeup and all of it’s glory. But some of us struggle with the application process and the majority of us would do more makeup if we were confident with applying it. Can’t get to the department store to purchase the perfect gift, don’t let that stop you from purchasing a “Private” Makeup Lesson with a beauty expert from Elite Secrets Bridal. With over a decade of experience in the beauty industry, makeup is the most popular accessory a woman will buy, (says CEO and Beauty Expert at ESB).

Give the gift of love. Click the buy now button below for the $100 gift card purchase. And receive the added bonus of $75 off purchase when scheduling the Makeup Lesson, (at a later date). Use CODE: MOMGIFT at appointment checkout.

Visit: www.elitesecretsbridal.com for appointments after gift card purchase.

We can’t wait to hear how you wowed her this Mother’s Day!!!

xoxo

Already the good at your makeup application but need help with choosing the right skincare products?!?

We can’t help but rave about our partnership Limelife by Alcone’s makeup and skincare collection.

We believe that true beauty is made up of inner confidence and outer radiance, and we’ve created LimeLife products with both in mind. You can trust that our skin care products are free of harmful chemicals and full of organic ingredients that get results.

Click here https://www.limelifebyalcone.com/elitesecrets/products/SkinCare to browse products options and purchase your favs. Have questions about products, orders, or discounts and savings: please email us at Latonya@elitesecretsbridal.com.

Click here for your appointments. 

Our Favorite Week of the Year is Here!!

Happy Tuesday, Elite Friends. Our favorite week of the year is here, and it kicks off TODAY, February 11th! If you haven’t guessed it, this week is Beauty Week! We get to treat you to all kinds of goodies all week long because we appreciate your support and the love you give us throughout the year.

Mark your calendars every day this week. We have something delightful planned each day just for you. Check out this sweet lineup for the details.

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Tuesday, February 11th

Tune in for Tuesday’s with Tonya on Instagram. Airbrush Makeup is the topic for this special” Instagram Live.” Our beauty expert will share insider tips on this sought-after makeup technique and demo the application process LIVE, so grab a pen and pad. You’ll want to take notes. Check our Instagram page for times and details.

Then after the session, book your bridal hair and makeup package for a FREE airbrush upgrade! Go for flawless glam on your wedding day with the technique all the celebrities are talking about.

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Wednesday, February 12th

We’re celebrating Wedding Wednesday with an EPIC contest. Enter for a chance to win you dream wedding gown (up to $1500 in value). To win:

• You must attend one of the two trunk shows this month. The Madison James by Allure show is over, but the Cristiano Lucci show starts this Friday!

• Follow Elite Secrets on Instagram (instagram.com/elitesecrets)

• Like the contest post on Instagram.

• Say “Yes” to your dress before we announce the winner on February 17th.

• You MUST pay in full upon saying yes (The winner will receive a refund of $1,500 issued upon announcing the winner on February 17th).

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Thursday, February 13th

There’s no way we could celebrate bridal beauty and fashion and leave out the bride tribe. Trending Thursday is all about the bridal tribe. Purchase three or more bridesmaids gowns and receive your choice of one FREE bridesmaid gown or a FREE flower girl dress. The choice is yours.

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Valentine’s Day, February 14th

For the LOVE of wine. Join us for a Valentine’s Day wine tasting courtesy of our partners at Vino Wine Bar and Shop.

And because we love you so much, we’re gifting every bride—who says yes to the dress—a bottle of wine to take home. It’s our Valentine’s Day gift to you. Stop in anytime! No appointment needed for walk-in Fridays.

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Saturday, February 15th

We reserved the best for last. Saturday is our Customer Appreciation Day. Get ready for The Elite Wedding Party! Indulge in our complimentary dessert bar and bottomless mimosas. Then stay for the reveal of our new selfie photo booth station. Be among the first to try this fun addition to our showroom. Make sure you're there. Attendees will have a chance to take away valuable door prizes, too.

We can’t wait to celebrate this EPIC week with you. Cheers! 🥂

Marina Semone Trunk Show, January 16-26 and Tuesdays with Tonya

Marina Semone Bridal is coming to Elite Secrets for a bridal trunk show you don’t want to miss. Mark your calendar, January 16th through January 26th, for an exclusive 10-day event. This is the only Marina Semone Bridal trunk show in all of the D.C., Maryland, Virginia areas.

You’ll be inspired by the seamless combination of the classical and the new. Handmade, heirloom-quality details are combined with clean lines and minimal silhouettes. Textured laces accentuate sleek crepes and silk chiffons. These gowns are made for saying “I do,” then dancing into the night!

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NEW TO WEDDING DRESS SHOPPING? CURIOUS ABOUT BRIDAL TRUNK SHOWS? GET ALL THE DEETS AND LEARN EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW IN OUR TRUNK SHOW GUIDE: 8 TIPS FOR WEDDING DRESS SHOPPING AT A BRIDAL TRUNK SHOW

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Book your appointment NOW to attend between January 16th and January 26th. You’ll get to bask in the beauty that is Marina Semone, plus receive an exclusive 10% discount on their stunning designs. Here’s how to attend this event and say yes to your dream Marina Semone wedding dress:

1. Book your appointment TODAY online at EliteSecretsBridal.com/contact or call 410.727.7000 (appointment slots fill up quickly).

2. Grab your bride tribe. We’ll supply the champagne!

3. Let’s make magic! Our professional staff is ready to serve you and your tribe—with bubbly in hand.

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Introducing Tuesdays with Tonya, January 14

We’re excited to introduce #TuesdayswithTonya. Debuting January 14th, the award-winning bridal beauty expert, entrepreneur, and boss babe will share stories, tips, trends, and good old-fashioned advice on weddings, fashion, beauty, and business.

Whether you’ve seen her at her sold-out events, caught her on BMore Lifestyle TV, or in the Baltimore Sun, this is the place to get answers to your burning questions and connect over love and laughs. Join the party on Instagram (@elitesecrets) every Tuesday! Be sure to check Instagram periodically for times and details.

We've Got a Love Jones: Alysha Says Yes Two Times!

What do you do when your friend and local blogger gets engaged and want to say yes to her dress at your shop? Pull out all the stops of course.

You may remember Alysha as the co-host for our annual spring bridal fashion shows. Or, you may know the influencer from her wildly popular blog, Discover Charm City. Recently, our uber-talented friend said yes—twice—in the most surprising and unconventional ways: once to her dream guy, Aaron, and once to her dream dress at Elite Secrets Bridal. She sat down with us and spilled the tea on both sweet and romantic experiences in an exclusive interview. Prepare to be inspired by this double love story.  

Tell us a little about yourself, your fiancé, and your engagement story.

There was nothing unusual about that weekend. My parents were in town, and we went to dinner the night before. But they come to Baltimore often, so it didn’t stand out. Sunday, we started the day like any other typical weekend day! I was super comfortable at home in my “mu-mu,” and was organizing my sock drawer (haha).

Aaron was working and said we’d meet up later. Eventually, he texts me and says to meet him at the monument. Again, this is pretty typical for us on warm Spring and Summer days. We like to grab a bottle of wine and relax in the park. So, this was all a part of our regular routine.

We spent some time sitting at the park, taking in the typical Baltimore sites. Kids were playing, cartwheeling. Some of the familiar neighborhood regulars were all enjoying their Sunday. We were talking and somehow got on the discussion of engagements and weddings. And I had shared how much I loved my friend’s story of their sweet and simple proposal in a taxi ride in NYC. And how the guy just couldn’t wait to propose to her a minute longer. That’s when Aaron said, “I don’t want you to wait any longer.” He gets down on one knee, and I still could not register what was happening. I look over and see the amazing photographer, Devin Allen, behind a tree, capturing the entire moment. I was hysterically crying, and one of the homeless guys in the park comes over and says, “I knew he was going to do it! I knew it!” We shared our champagne with him, which is SO Baltimore. Everything about it was just US and perfect! We Face-timed our parents in the rain. Then later, with all of our close friends, Aaron had organized a dinner for us at Duck Duck Goose.

A piece of advice I’d give to people awaiting an engagement is just to relax and try not to control the process. You will LOVE the shock and surprise of that special moment your partner plans for you!

You have several choices, in the area, for wedding gown shopping. What drew you to Elite Secrets Bridal? What are some of the reasons for your decision?

I knew from when I met LaTonya that one day, I’d want to get my gown from her shop. Not only because I’m passionate about supporting small business and black-owned businesses in Baltimore, but because LaTonya is a truly wonderful person. She makes you feel so special when she talks to you, and she and the Elite Secrets team make every bride who walks through their doors a priority! I also know how much she cares about being inclusive and welcoming of all body types. I knew I’d want that experience when it came to choosing my gown.

Tell us about the day your squad surprised you and took you to Elite Secrets Bridal. And tell us a little about your first impressions and shopping experience.

Again, like my surprise engagement, it was a normal day with my girls! My best friend, and one of my maid-of-honors, Jasmine, organized a trip to the local Wedding Expo. Honestly, it was just for fun and to get some good wedding inspo. Looking back, I recommend doing that with your girls. It just gets you in that wedding spirit, and it’s such a special memory! After the expo, we were riding in the car together when Jasmine (who is also a style consultant at Elite Secrets) said she had to stop by Elite Secrets to pick up a check. I didn’t think this was unusual at all! But, when we walked in the doors, there was LaTonya and Sabrina (an Elite Secrets Bridal Consultant) saying “Surprise” with a photographer and champagne! They had this special table set up with little snacks and gifts. Also, I really appreciated LaTonya keeping the pressure off. She just said, “We’re just trying on gowns today.” I loved that I didn’t have the pressure of choosing a gown on the spot.

Did you have any expectations going into your first wedding gown shopping experience?

Did you have a style of gown/or process of choosing a gown in mind before your shopping experience? I had no idea what style gown I wanted! I just went with LaTonya and her team’s expert advice. I didn’t have much expectation going into it. I loved that right off the bat, Sabrina just knew what was going to look perfect on my body. The rep for Allure Bridal was there as well, and they made me feel so comfortable!

How did it feel to try on your first wedding gown?

It was surreal. It felt like “wow” this is it! It just was such an amazing experience to be surrounded by my loved ones, cheering me on and boosting me! LaTonya and her team have these cute signs that your squad can hold up when voting for gowns. All of those little touches made such a difference in my experience.

When you finally said “Yes” to your dress, what made you choose YOUR dream dress? Were you surprised at what you did/did not like when you actually tried on gowns?

I was so surprised at the ones I tried on (per the team’s advice). The dresses weren’t exactly what I would have chosen for myself, but they knew what would look good on me! I really appreciated it! In the end, LaTonya encouraged me to choose a gown that made me feel like a princess. She was really good at reminding me that I needed a gown that really “wowed”! I don’t think I would have chosen one that was so dramatic without the team, reminding me that I needed something that would stand out and make a big impression! They found me a gown that is GRAND, and that stands out. They even helped me find a veil that went perfectly with the whole GRAND look! I appreciated that they got me out of my head and comfort zone!

What advice would you give to other brides as they search for their dream dress and prepare for their big day?

To relax. I can’t say enough about this. Something I recommend is to speak kindly to yourself (always but especially when trying on gowns). Recite positive affirmations to yourself daily. It’s all about the mindset! Spend time with yourself. Choose the right people for your bridal party. People who know you and will support you no matter what. Know your style and body type. And bring people with you who have your bests interest at heart.

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Treat Yourself and Your Tribe to a Private, Concierge-Style Service with Elite Secrets’ New Elite Experience

Elite Secrets Bridal is pleased to announce the introduction of a new service, The Elite Experience. Debuting this month, brides can opt to have this exclusive, concierge-style service making their dress shopping experience even more magical. 

The Elite Experience includes but is not limited to a two-hour appointment for a bride tribe of up to 10 people. Shut down the shop for a private appointment for you and your circle only. During the session, your group can indulge in a full champagne bar (with two bottles of champagne) and enjoy fresh sweet treats from our bakery partners. Your guests can sit back and look on as our bridal stylist meets with you for a full bridal styling consultation. No one from your tribe will be left out of the pics because they’re behind the camera, our team will capture the entire appointment and everyone from your tribe. You’ll get a customized hashtag to compliment your memories. We’ll even curate a personalized playlist of your favorite songs because no experience is complete without a soundtrack. The Elite Experience starts at $125.

Ready for us to roll out the red carpet for you and your tribe? We can’t wait to serve you! Book your appointment. Dates are available but filling up quickly.

Everything you need to know about Airbrush Makeup

He popped the question, you’ve set a date and picked the perfect venue, now its time to make some decision regarding your wedding day look. If you are deciding between airbrush and traditional makeup, you’ve come to the right place. Keep reading to find out which technique is best for you on your Big Day. 

What is airbrush makeup? 

Airbrush makeup is makeup sprayed onto the skin using an airbrush instead of being applied with sponges or brushes. A powered compressor is used to create an even and controllable airflow through a medical grade hose. The hose connects to a metal, trigger-actioned gun. An airbrush system can be altered to suit every type of makeup application by changing the air pressure (typically measured in pounds per square inch) for lighter, heavier, detailed, or broader makeups.

What is the difference between airbrush makeup and traditional?

Although traditional makeup and airbrush makeup are created to last throughout the day, the airbrush formulas are far more resilient than their traditional counterparts. This type of makeup can withstand sweat, tears, and rain better than conventional makeup, making airbrush the best option for emotional and nervous brides. The fluids bead up on the skin, as opposed to soaking into the makeup layer. So, there are no tear lines on your face after the ceremony.

Benefits of Airbrush Makeup

Hypoallergenic Application

One of the most significant benefits of airbrush makeup is how sanitary the process is. There is no need to touch the product at all, and the stylus does not affect your skin. This means that there won’t be any transferring of dirt, oil, or bacteria to your skin from the previous user. This is great for skin that is prone to breakouts.

Natural, Flawless Look

Whether the coverage is sheer or heavy, the mist of makeup looks perfectly natural. You can’t get a more flawless look. The composition is applied in thin, light layers, so it does not give the appearance that traditional makeup offers, despite providing flawless coverage.

Lightweight

Many people who opt for airbrush makeup agree that it feels as if they are not wearing makeup at all, while traditional makeup can feel thicker after prolonged us. The airbrush technique is excellent for your skin, too, as it allows it to breathe and is less likely to clog your pores.

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You’re Invited to our Annual White Friday Sale.

Join us this Friday.

Doors open at 6:00 AM

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Perfect Color Matching

There is an excellent range of colors available in airbrush makeup to match your skin tone. But, to make a perfect match for you, your professional makeup artist will blend two or more hues. Color matching will help the makeup to appear even more natural as it will absolutely match your tone.

Looks Amazing In Photos

Airbrush makeup creates a beautiful natural glow that looks fantastic in pictures, both up close and from a distance, as well as in person.

Ready to book your airbrush makeup appointment? We can’t wait to partner with you on your bridal beauty needs. Book your hair and makeup trial with Elite Secrets today.

7 Bridal Beauty Mistakes Every Bride Must Avoid

Your wedding day is the most memorable day of your life, so it’s only fair that you would want to make sure your bridal look is just right. With so many fashion and beauty trends on social media, magazines, and blogs, it’s tempting to get caught up in the hype and want to experiment for your Big Day. But trust us — you don’t want to look back at your photos and not recognize yourself. Before you head down the aisle, read on to find out what major snafus can happen, and LaTonya’s top tips on how to avoid them.

Not Testing Your Wedding Day Hair and Makeup: Surprisingly, many brides forgo a bridal hair and makeup trials to save time or cut costs, but that might not be the best plan in the long run. Scheduling a hair and makeup trial is always SO necessary before the wedding day. There are many benefits, but one of the biggest gains is saving time. You will not have the time to re-do your hair on your wedding day.

Wearing a Makeup Look Completely Different from Your Normal Routine: Your wedding day is not the time to try new eye shadow tricks or heavy contouring if it isn’t part of your usual style strategy. Whether you wear a lot of makeup or no makeup on a daily basis, for the wedding day, you shouldn’t go with a look that is dramatically different from your routine. After all, you want your significant other to recognize you walking down the aisle. We suggest talking with your makeup artist about intensifying your everyday method and makeup look versus going with a look that is a total deviation from the norm.

Not Wearing a Robe While Getting Glam: There is a reason that hair and make-up artists suggest wearing a robe or button-up blouse while getting hair and makeup done, and that is because you can easily remove these garments without smudging your makeup or ruining your hair. It’s especially important if you won’t have someone at the wedding venue to do touch-ups.

Not Using Waterproof Mascara: Even if you’re sure you won’t cry at the altar, it’s always a great idea to have a backup plan in place. Weddings are emotional, and even if you aren’t anticipating waterworks, you may shed a few tears at some point. Do yourself a favor and wear waterproof mascara to avoid having black streaks run down your face or raccoon eyes. Also, consider keeping a fabric handkerchief on standby for simple touch ups in between tears.

Tanning Mishaps: Avoid tanning before your wedding day. Poor spray tans are hard to reverse and will be in all of your photos. There’s no turning back from that. If you plan to get a spray tan, do a trial well in advance of the wedding, so you have time to get your skin back to normal in case there are any mistakes.

Ordering a Dress in a Size Too Small: You may have goals of dropping a dress size or two before the wedding, but you should still plan to order a dress in your current size. If you lose the weight, good for you. You will most likely have many fittings with the seamstress to make alterations— so keep it realistic. On the other hand, if you don't loose the weight you will need to order extra fabric and have additional modifications.

Wearing Heels That Are Uncomfortable: Figure out what your feet can handle before the wedding. Far too often, brides will choose style over comfort, and that’s never a good idea. You will be on your feet for most of your day, so having comfortable shoes is a requirement. You do not want to be unable to make it down the aisle or share in your first dance because of uncomfortable shoes! We advise buying a chic pair of wedges or keeping a pair of simple satin flats on standby.

Want more wedding style advice? Book an appointment with Elite Secrets Bridal today. We have experienced bridal stylists in our showroom ready to assist you.

What to Expect at the Allure Women Trunk Show

The trunk show you’ve been waiting for is finally here! This weekend, Allure Women is coming to Elite Secrets Bridal for a show just for you, Baltimore Brides. Allure Women crafts a beautiful silhouette with an emphasis on high-quality fabrics and detailing. The dreamy collection features gorgeous fabrics, laces, and silhouettes designed specifically to accommodate and flatter your curves. Whether you are in search of a fairytale ball gown, high fashion couture style, or a simple and elegant design, Allure offers the designer wedding dress of your dreams.  Get an exclusive first glance this Friday, November 15th through Sunday, November 17th –it’s a can’t miss event for brides.

If this is your first bridal trunk show, we know wedding dress shopping can be a bit overwhelming. But fear not, we’re here to help!

What is a Bridal Trunk Show?

A trunk show is a special event in a bridal boutique where they invite a designer to showcase their collection. Sometimes it’s a one-day event, but for particularly popular collections, it could last for multiple days. Often the designers themselves, or stylists from the fashion house will be on hand to help you find the right dress.

Trunk shows are a particularly good opportunity to check out a visiting designer whose full collections aren’t stocked in your city.

Expert Tips for at the Allure Women Trunk Shows

So, now you know what bridal trunk shows are, how do you get the most out of shopping at one? Here’s where bridal beauty expert LaTonya of Elite Secrets Bridal steps in.

1. What Lies Beneath

Feel your best underneath your wedding dress. The appropriate undergarments will not only help you feel your best; they will help your dress look the best. Opt for nude-colored underwear and a great strapless bra. Bring your undies to the appointment to see how they work with your desired dress.

2. Bring a Companion

Take a trusted friend—someone you trust that will give you sound advice. Honest encouragement, and constructive feedback can be extremely helpful and great company can up the factor for your bridal dress appointment.

Leave the whole entourage, though. Too many conflicting opinions can leave you confused and stressed.

3. Mind Your Budget

Purchasing your dress at the trunk show is a great way to spend a little less on your dream wedding dress. We’re giving you 10% off your Allure Women gown and a free bridal hair and makeup trial (valued at $150). But you MUST say, “Yes” to the dress to redeem these goodies.

4. Necklines, Shape, and Silhouettes Oh My

There are so many variations to a wedding dress. Have an idea of what neckline, shape and silhouette you like best. Research the different styles, so you’re familiar will the lingo, too.

You will soon find you have narrowed down your style, and what is flattering for your figure.

5. How High?

Bear in mind the height of your heels you plan to wear on your wedding day when you begin your dress shopping.

Keep in mind that hems cannot be lengthened, only shortened, so it’s a good idea to take the maximum heel height with you.

Ready to attend the trunk show? Here’s how to attend this event and say yes to your Allure Women wedding dress:

Book your appointment between Friday, November 15th, and Sunday, November 17th online at EliteSecretsBridal.com/contact or call 410.727.7000.

Grab your bride tribe. We’ll bring the champagne!

Let’s make magic! Our professional staff is ready to serve you and your tribe—with bubbly in hand.

Your Elite Secrets Bridal Guide to Wedding Day Hair and Makeup

We've all been there - experiencing makeup disasters and hair failures. However, when it comes to the most special day in your life, epic fails should never happen. That is why more and more brides choose professional bridal services for their hair and makeup. The truth is, only an expert can guarantee the look you want without any possibility of a disaster. 

Booking a professional will not only give you peace of mind, but you'll be able to relax and enjoy the planning process leading to your Big Day. Still, choosing a professional wedding hairstylist and makeup artist is not an easy mission, which is why bridal trials are SO IMPORTANT. A bridal trial will allow you to test the looks you like and the skill of the artist. 

Here are a few tips for bridal trial success. 

PLAN THINGS AHEAD

Coming to your hair and makeup trial prepared will help us ace the look from the start. The more inspiration you pick up from the online Pinterest boards, magazines, and TV shows, the better your trial will be. The best way to be prepared is to have a rough idea of the dress, your hairstyle, and makeup - and communicate it clearly with us.

YOUR WEDDING DRESS COMES FIRST ON THE SHOPPING LIST

There is a big reason why you should purchase your wedding dress first. We believe the entire look should revolve around your dress. Your hair and makeup should balance its style, length, and level of detail and always comply with it. Therefore, it is essential to buy your dress first and bring a photo of it to the trial!

WEAR A WHITE T-SHIRT ON YOUR TRIAL

A crisp white T-shirt (or a color that resembles the color of your wedding dress) is a great way to get a better idea of how your hair and makeup will work with your dress. You can also cut the neckline to match your wedding gown and see if everything fits as you imagined.

Not only this will give you a better idea of your wedding look, but it will also help you choose the perfect bridal makeup and hair choice and whether they match the white color on your body.

DON’T FORGET YOUR VEIL

The purpose of the trial is to get a good idea of your finished look before your wedding day, and you won't get the full effect without your veil or hair accessories. Also, it helps the hairstylist work out any snafus with tricky fasteners or positioning issues ahead of the Big Day. 

SCHEDULE A LONG ENOUGH APPOINTMENT

Your Baltimore bridal makeup appointment should be long enough, primarily because of the different styles you may want to test out. After all, it is your wedding hair and makeup that we are talking about - and such things deserve special attention.

GO CLEAN BEFORE THE TRIAL

For the makeup trial, it is always better to come clean and avoid putting on any products before the trial. A fresh face holds makeup better and will let us make the look perfectly match the color of your natural skin without makeup.

GO CAMERA CRAZY

Once we've completed your bridal makeup and hair, it's time to start snapping photos and taking them from different angles. Make sure to also switch the backgrounds and test photos in both daylight and nighttime. That way, you will have a better idea of your look at every minute during your wedding.

Ready to book with us? We can't wait to partner with you on your wedding beauty needs. Book your hair and makeup trial with Elite Secrets today. 

Everything you need to know about bridal fittings and alterations

Congratulations! You did it! You’ve said yes to your dream dress. You’re in love all over again with the wedding dress you’ll wear as you transform from Miss to Mrs., But the process is not over, yet. It’s time to alter that baby to get a custom, just-for-you fit that will take your wedding day look to a level of perfection.

We sat down with LaTonya, bridal beauty expert, and owner of Elite Secrets Bridal, to get answers to the most commonly asked questions about dress fittings and alterations.

Are alterations really necessary?  Absolutely! Just like an everyday dress, wedding dresses aren’t usually made-to-measure. A bride’s measurements rarely match a designer’s size perfectly. After you say yes to your wedding dress, we compare your measurements to the designer’s size chart and order the closest size. Once it arrives, the dress must then be tailored precisely to fit your shape and form.

How much time in advance should I arrange for alterations? Plan to begin the process of altering your dress 8-10 weeks before your wedding day.

How many fittings should I anticipate? Plan for at least three fittings. There could be more depending on the number and type of alterations needed for your gown.

What should you wear for each fitting? “I highly recommend that brides bring the shoes and undergarments they’re planning to wear the day of the wedding,” says LaTonya. “Having the actual shoes helps the seamstress measure for the hem perfectly. A pair of stilettos will require your dress to be a different length than if you opted for a pair of flats.”

How long do alterations appointments take? Allow an hour for each meeting. As you get closer to the day of your wedding, the appointments will go faster. Therefore, the appointment will be shorter.

Want to look flawless on your wedding day? Still need to say yes to your dream dress? We’ve got you covered. Make your appointment today! We’re waiting to serve you!

Top 7 Wedding Dress Shopping Tips for Curvy Brides

The thought of dress shopping as a curvy bride can be intimidating. Even walking into a bridal shop can evoke anxiety and nervousness. What styles will look best on me? Will the shop have samples in my size? Can I even find the perfect dress?

As a recent bride (my husband and I will be celebrating our 5th anniversary! Yay!) and bridal fashion expert, I can say with confidence that there is light at the end of the tunnel, that will lead you the “say yes to the dress moment” you’ve always dreamed about.

In this post, I’ll be sharing my top tips for shopping for your plus size wedding dress.

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Don’t wait until the last minute. Start shopping at least six months ahead of your big day. You’ll want plenty of time for ordering and alterations. Also, early shopping will save you the headache of having to settle for a short production dress or being rushed to order.

Work with a shop that will treat you right. At Elite Secrets Bridal, we roll out the red carpet, so you have a stellar experience with knowledgeable experts. We love all our brides but pride ourselves on offering gorgeous options for curvy brides. No rude treatment or limited options at ESB!

Plan for your appointment. This is one of the best shopping experiences ever, so take it seriously. Get a good night’s rest before your date. Avoid alcohol and salty foods, too. Most importantly, silence your inner critic and come with a great attitude. Feeling good on the inside will almost guarantee looking good on the outside.

Choose your tribe wisely. Good vibes and positive tribes can take your dress shopping experience to a whole other level. Invite folks that get you and want the best for you. After all, this is the most fun part of the wedding planning process, and a Debbie Downer can ruin everything.

Hire a good seamstress. A great seamstress is your best friend. And, you’re in luck because we have an Ah-mazing seamstress on-site. If your dream dress needs straps or bra cups to help enhance your look, we’ve got you covered. Invest in this worthy service. You won’t regret it.

Have fun! If you take one thing away from this post, having fun should be it! If you aren’t having fun doing this, then you are doing it all wrong. Grab your tribe and live it up! Did I mention we have complimentary champagne for you and your tribe?

If this post has you fired up to say yes to your dress, go ahead and book your appointment with us now. We can’t wait to serve you.

TRAVEL TIPS FOR FLYING WITH YOUR WEDDING DRESS

With all the things to consider for a destination wedding, worrying about transporting your wedding dress shouldn’t add to your stress.

First, remember that you’re not the first bride to travel to her wedding with her dress in tow. And, lucky for you our wedding dress expert, LaTonya, owner of Elite Secrets Bridal is here to help.

A simple but costly option would be to buy an extra ticket for your gown. You can ensure your dress will make it to your destination in mint condition if it’s resting in the seat next to you. The bonus is you’re almost guaranteed an aisle or window seat.

If purchasing a ticket is not an option for you, keep reading for LaTonya’s tips for traveling with your special garment.

Planning

• Check the airline’s guidelines for wedding dress policies or carry-on rules. Some large air carriers will have policies in place for traveling with wedding gowns. Here are links to some of the popular airlines:

American

Delta

Spirit

Southwest

United

• Scope out the plane ahead of your flight for closets or large overhead bins. Seatguru.com will give you an opportunity to view the plane’s layout before your departure date. Check out your carrier to determine if there’s space to hang or store your dress. Some airlines have closets for first-class passenger and pilots—even if you don’t have a first-class ticket, some attendants will allow you to store your dress if space is available.

  Arrive early to make arrangements with the gate agent before boarding begins to increase your chances of securing closet space.

Packing

With all the fabric and possibly a train, packing a wedding dress can be a daunting task. There are two options for packing your wedding garment: in a carry-on suitcase or in a garment bag.

• If you opt for the garment bag, there’s a sure way to hang your dress correctly and avoid getting wrinkles during the flight. First, insert the hanger of the dress into the top of the garment bag and hang it up high so you can gather the dress. Then, take the right side of the gown and the left side of the dress and fold them toward the center. Be sure to have a thick bag to avoid punctures from other items in the overhead compartment.

• If you prefer to use a suitcase, make sure your dress has its own bag. Your wedding dress should be far away from anything that could stain it. It’s best to store toiletries, shoes, and makeup in a separate piece of luggage. 

It’s essential to turn your dress inside out before packing. Turning your dress inside out protects the garment in case anything spills inside of your suitcase. 

When you’re ready, lay the dress out flat on the bed or clean floor. Fold the left and right sides of the skirt into the center. Then, roll the gown, keeping as much air as possible between the layers and of the dress to prevents wrinkles.

Place the rolled dress in a large plastic dry-cleaning bag. Next, tie off the ends of the bag, creating an air pocket around the dress. Place the dress in your suitcase.

• Pack a portable steamer. Although our tips will help minimize wrinkles, we can’t promise that your beautiful gown will be wrinkle-free when you land. Packing a portable steamer will help in the event the worst occurs. Some hotels have steamers, but why take a risk when you can pack your own.

  To guard against water spots from the steam, place a towel or a cotton sock over the head of your steamer before you begin to steam your dress.

Now you know everything about how to fly with a wedding dress! Still looking to say yes to the dress? Join us for our Allure Bridal Trunk Show this weekend (Sept. 13-15th) and save 10% off your dream dress. Book your appointment here.

Your 2019 Fall Bridal Beauty Timeline

Next week marks the end of August. Soon the leaves will change, school will be back in session, and pumpkin spice lattes will return to Starbucks menus everywhere. Exciting, right? Well, to most this sounds endearing, but if you are a fall bride images of orange leaves and warm seasonal drinks may be overshadowed by all the looming tasks left on your list of wedding to do’s.

 Between seating charts and first dance song selections, you’ve got enough on your plate without having to worry about the beauty tasks, so we figured we could help with another way to avoid wedding day stress. Here’s your last-minute Elite timeline for all things bridal beauty so you will look and feel your most beautiful self ever on your wedding day.

 Two months before

• Test out tanning options. You don’t want to wait for this task. Starting early ensures that you won’t get stuck with a color you’re not proud to wear.

• Make an appointment to see an eyebrow specialist for shaping. Working on shaping those fine hairs above the eye now, gives them plenty of time to grow back and start over if you don’t like the outcome.

• If you haven’t booked your hair and makeup trials, it’s not too late. Book your appointment with us here.

• Talk to your dentist about teeth whitening or begin an at-home regimen for enhancing your pearly whites.

• If you’re thinking about making a dramatic change to your hair color for the wedding, this is the time to try it out. Figure out your desired hair color and work out a plan with your color specialist. This gives your plenty of time to grow it out or change the hair color before the Big Day.

 Two weeks before

• Touch up roots on your hair color. This is optional and depends on the color and the process. It’s best to consult your color specialist for customized instruction for keeping your strands flawless for your special day.

• Exfoliate your entire body 2-3 times a week. Slough off dead skin and reveal your natural glow all over.

One week before

• Start eating healthy from here on out. Cut sodium to beat bloating and start eating clean to boost your metabolism.

• Zen out with yoga and meditation to reduce your stress. Extra stress leaves your skin vulnerable to break outs. This important tip is sure to help keep your zit-free on your wedding day.

• Make appointments for all your waxing needs, brows, legs, lip, and bikini line, etc.

 Congratulations, your Big Day is almost here, and you have everything needed to look your best self. Book you bridal hair and makeup appointment with Elite Secrets Bridal to finish you look.

Your Spring Bridal Beauty Timeline Leading to your Big Day

Spring is in the air! Soon springs flowers will bloom, and the temps will start to warm. Exciting, right? Well, to most this sounds endearing, but if you are a spring bride images of pastel florals and Easter themes may be overshadowed by all the looming tasks left on your list of wedding to do’s.

 Between seating charts and first dance song selections, you’ve got enough on your plate without having to worry about the beauty tasks, so we figured we could help with another way to avoid wedding day stress. Here’s your last-minute Elite timeline for all things bridal beauty so you will look and feel your most beautiful self ever on your wedding day.

 Two months before

• Test out tanning options. You don’t want to wait for this task. Starting early ensures that you won’t get stuck with a color you’re not proud to wear.

•  Make an appointment to see an eyebrow specialist for shaping. Working on shaping those fine hairs above the eye now, gives them plenty of time to grow back and start over if you don’t like the outcome.

• If you haven’t booked your hair and makeup trials, it’s not too late. Book your appointment with us here.

• Talk to your dentist about teeth whitening or begin an at-home regimen for enhancing your pearly whites.

• If you’re thinking about making a dramatic change to your hair color for the wedding, this is the time to try it out. Figure out your desired hair color and work out a plan with your color specialist. This gives your plenty of time to grow it out or change the hair color before the Big Day.

 Two weeks before

• Touch up roots on your hair color. This is optional and depends on the color and the process. It’s best to consult your color specialist for customized instruction for keeping your strands flawless for your special day.

• Exfoliate your entire body 2-3 times a week. Slough off dead skin and reveal your natural glow all over.

 One week before

• Start eating healthy from here on out. Cut sodium to beat bloating and start eating clean to boost your metabolism.

• Zen out with yoga and meditation to reduce your stress. Extra stress leaves your skin vulnerable to break outs. This important tip is sure to help keep your zit-free on your wedding day.

• Make appointments for all your waxing needs, brows, legs, lip, and bikini line, etc.

Congratulations, your big day is almost here, and you have everything needed to look your best self. Ready to book your bridal beauty trial with Elite Secrets? Click here for your appointment. 

Top 5 Things Every Bride Must Do to Look Amazing on The Big Day

How to look great on my wedding day is a thought that runs through the mind of many brides. The truth is, it is not rocket science - and it all boils down to a couple of important wedding day makeup, hair and dress tips you need to follow.

Speaking of which, we are outlining the best ones for making your look flawless - below.

1. STRIKE A POSE IN FRONT OF YOUR MIRROR

Knowing where your hands are at all times during your wedding, and what your pose is, can be helpful. The best way to practice it is in front of the mirror, by trying a few of your favorite celebrity runway poses.

Oh, and did you know that some poses can make you 10 pounds lighter in front of the camera? Grab a friend and have them help you out!

2. HAVE A PROFESSIONAL APPLY YOUR MAKEUP

Just because you have a bridesmaid who knows how to apply makeup, that doesn't mean that she will do a great job on your wedding day makeup. Most likely she will have a lot going on and things to do that day to get herself ready. You won't be her center of attention, and your makeup may suffer because of it. A professional makeup artist makes it their job to make sure that the bride is the most important face of the day!

3. LEARN HOW TO WORK YOUR FACE FOR THE CAMERA

Double chins are the enemy of every bride. In case you don't know what it is, it's the pose when you are looking down, and your chin is doubling and colliding with your neck. They can make even the slimmest of women look bad in pictures.

The best way to prevent a double chin from happening on your wedding photos and videos is always to move your head forward. Just make sure you are not looking at the ceiling or making awkward poses, right?

4. EMBRACE THE BEAUTY OF LAUGHTER

Sometimes, the best wedding photos are the ones where you and your friends laugh. Fake smiles are not flattering for sure - however, the same cannot be said for fake laughs. So, next time when you want to relax - let out a forced 'Ha! Ha!' - and do it again, again and again. The results? Natural photos that everyone loves!

5. BUY THE DRESS, THE SHOES, AND THE ACCESSORIES

Be sure to purchase your attire in the right order. First buy the dress, next select the shoes, and lastly the accessories. That way is the easiest to follow and the most hassle-free choice. And remember - always choose your wardrobe wisely. Try not to get caught up in the trend of the moment, but instead focus on your style and what flatters you most.

Want to look flawless on your wedding day? We’ve got you covered. Make your appointment today! Bridal hair and makeup trials are half off.

8 Tips for Wedding Dress Shopping at a Bridal Trunk Show

Wedding dress shopping can be a bit overwhelming.

Not only are there so many choices (so many gorgeous dresses!) but the pressure is on to find a dress you love, look and feel fabulous in, and comes in (ideally!) under budget.

Add a sample sale or trunk show into the mix, and we’re officially bewildered. But fear not, we’re here to help!

What is a Bridal Trunk Show?

A trunk show is a special event in a bridal boutique where they invite a designer to showcase their collection. Sometimes it’s a one-day event, but for particularly popular collections, it could last for multiple days. Often the designers themselves, or stylists from the fashion house will be on hand to help you find the right dress.

Trunk shows are a particularly good opportunity to check out a visiting designer whose full collections aren’t stocked in your city.

8 Expert Tips for Shopping at Sample Sales and Trunk Shows

So, now you know what bridal trunk shows are, how do you get the most out of shopping at one? Here’s where bridal beauty expert LaTonya of Elite Secrets Bridal steps in.

Located in Baltimore's esteemed Mount Vernon fashion boutique district, Elite Secrets Bridal opened its doors bringing to Baltimore’s bridal scene an experience that cannot be found in any other Baltimore bridal boutique. The pedigree of founder LaTonya Turnage, bridal beauty expert, has been fundamental to our philosophy to combine expertise and excellent service with style and grace. Leaving pretense to the side, we focus on bringing the best designer and emerging bridal gowns from all over the world to Baltimore Brides!

1. What Lies Beneath

Feel your best underneath your wedding dress. The appropriate undergarments will not only help you feel your best; they will help your dress look the best. Opt for nude-colored underwear and a great strapless bra.

2. Bring a Companion

Take a trusted friend—someone you trust that will give you sound advice. Honest encouragement and constructive feedback can be extremely helpful and great company can up the factor for your bridal dress appointment.

Leave the whole entourage though. Too many conflicting opinions can leave you confused and stressed.

3. Mind Your Budget

Know your budget! Bridal trunk shows often offer a discretionary discount (usually 10%) off gowns ordered over that weekend.

It’s a great way to spend a little less in the event you find your dream wedding dress.

4. Do Your Homework

Research the designer first – for a trunk show the boutique will primarily present the featured designer only.

Make sure you are interested in their styles and silhouettes to get the most from your experience.

5. Necklines, Shape, and Silhouettes Oh My

There are so many variations to a wedding dress. Have an idea of what neckline, shape and silhouette you like best. Research the different styles, so you’re familiar will the lingo, too.

You will soon find you have narrowed down your style and what is flattering for your figure.

6. How High?

Bear in mind the height of your heels you plan to wear on your wedding day when you begin your dress shopping.

Keep in mind that hems cannot be lengthened, only shortened, so it’s a good idea to take the maximum heel height with you.

7. Ask the Expert

At a trunk show, if you are lucky the designer or stylist may be there in person, take full advantage of expert availability and ask for styling advice.

With their experience and knowledge, you are likely to find that they know what suits you—sometimes better than you! Check out Elite Secrets Bridal’s upcoming trunk shows here.

8. Consider Your Timing

Know your time frame. Some designer dresses need up to eight months to be completed and altered.

Learn beforehand, how long the designer needs for your dress and let your stylist know if you’re in a time crunch.

Put your new trunk show knowledge to the test and join us for the Pronovias show Sept. 27th - 30th. Affordable designer gown for every type of bride. Book your appointment to say yes to the dress. We look forward to serving you!

Our CEO, LaTonya Turnage, featured on Baltimore Bride Magazine

We are thrilled to share that our CEO, LaTonya Turnage, was featured in Baltimore Bride Magazine's new online series, "Ask the Expert." In the inaugural post, our bridal beauty expert shared her story on starting Elite Secrets Bridal.

There were tons of tips for brides about everything from how many people you should bring to your dress appointment (the answer might surprise you), the key to finding the perfect dress and her favorite part of helping a bride: “Once they find their perfect dress and they’re caught in the moment and everyone is crying, we do something special here. While the bride is in her dress, we put on a nice song for her and she’ll do a walk. We ask the bride what song, whether it’s her first dance song or one she’s considering. Everyone in the room is crying and emotional. It never gets old; every time I feel like family.” 

Read all about our expert and see more images at http://www.baltimorebridemagazine.com/blog/2018/6/21/ask-the-expert-bridal-shop-proprietor.

Summer is here and the wedding season is underway. Book your appointment today and say yes to your dream dress. We can't wait to serve you. 

Should you pay for your bridesmaids' hair and makeup?

Every bride wants her bride tribe to look fierce on her wedding day, from the perfect hair to flawless makeup. To ensure there’s a uniform look she may book hair and makeup for her bridesmaids. The cohesive beauty makes for amazing photos and memorable girl-time before the soon-to-be Mrs.’ trip down the aisle.

Although, whether the bride picks up the tab for her bridal party’s hair and makeup is an individual decision, it is not a guaranteed one. If the bridesmaids are responsible for beauty services, what happens when one doesn't have the resources to pay for hair and makeup? Should she do her hair and makeup, or should you cover the costs? Our bridal beauty expert, LaTonya Turnage, weighs in.

If you want your bridesmaids to have professional hair and makeup looks, it should be discussed in the early stages of the wedding planning process. Even though it may not be understood, there are some financial costs associated with bridesmaid’s responsibilities, so if she can't do the hair and makeup, it's important to be honest upfront.

However, if one of your girls can't afford to get her hair and makeup done, it'd be a generous gesture to help her out. In this case, it may be best to chip in privately. It's not a rule, but it's the right thing to do. It's an honor to be a bridesmaid, but the bride should know there are different levels of financial responsibility.

Common courtesy also suggests that if you require hair and makeup for all of your bridesmaids, the payment for said services should come out of your pocket. If the choice is left to each bridesmaid, you are by no means obligated to pay. By the same reasoning, if your bridesmaid doesn't want to have her makeup done, there is no need to push the issue. However, leaving one member of the group out of the bonding beauty session is not an incredibly gracious way to treat a friend. And, you risk the bridesmaid doing her hair and makeup herself, which could potentially clash with the others. To remedy this situation, offer to pay a portion of her hair and makeup expense. If your economics are such that you can manage to foot the bill for all of your bridesmaids, you may want to do so. At Elite Secrets, we provide discounts for large groups, so you may be able to secure a deal while pleasing every member of your wedding party.

Want to book your bridal hair and makeup trial with Elite Secrets? Enjoy our New Year special and save 50% on your bridal hair and makeup trial. Book here today!

The Ultimate Bridal Beauty Timeline from Now to your Big Day

The end of the week marks the beginning of September. Soon the leaves will change, school will be back in session, and pumpkin spice lattes will return to Starbucks menus everywhere. Exciting, right? Well, to most this sounds endearing, but if you are a fall bride images of orange leaves and warm seasonal drinks may be overshadowed by all the looming tasks left on your list of wedding to do’s.

Between seating charts and first dance song selections, you’ve got enough on your plate without having to worry about the beauty tasks, so we figured we could help with another way to avoid wedding day stress. Here’s your last-minute Elite timeline for all things bridal beauty so you will look and feel your most beautiful self ever on your wedding day.

 Two months before

• Test out tanning options. You don’t want to wait for this task. Starting early ensures that you won’t get stuck with a color you’re not proud to wear.

[Related Post: Everything you Need to Know about Wedding Airbrush Tans]

• Make an appointment to see an eyebrow specialist for shaping. Working on shaping those fine hairs above the eye now, gives them plenty of time to grow back and start over if you don’t like the outcome.
• Talk to your dentist about teeth whitening or begin an at-home regimen for enhancing your pearly whites.
• If you’re thinking about making a dramatic change to your hair color for the wedding, this is the time to try it out. Figure out your desired hair color and work out a plan with your color specialist. This gives you plenty of time to grow it out or change the hair color before the Big Day.

Two weeks before

• Touch up roots on your hair color. This is optional and depends on the color and the process. It’s best to consult your color specialist for customized instruction for keeping your strands flawless for your special day.
• Exfoliate your entire body 2-3 times a week. Slough off dead skin and reveal your natural glow-- all over.

 One week before

• Start eating healthy from here on out. Cut sodium to beat bloating and start eating clean to boost your metabolism.
• Zen out with yoga and meditation to reduce your stress. Extra stress leaves your skin vulnerable to break outs. This important tip is sure to help keep your zit-free on your wedding day.

If you're in the Baltimore area, check out our friends at Charles St. Barre for a great workout. They even have special programs just for brides. 

• Make appointments for all your waxing needs, brows, legs, lip, and bikini line, etc.

Congratulations, your big day is almost here, and you have everything needed to look your best self. All you need to do is smile and enjoy the beginning of this new chapter.

8 Expert Tips for Wedding Dress Shopping at a Bridal Trunk Show

Wedding dress shopping can be a bit overwhelming. Not only are there so many choices (so many gorgeous dresses!) but the pressure is on to find a dress you love, look and feel fabulous in, and comes in (ideally!) under budget. Add a sample sale or trunk show into the mix, and we’re officially bewildered. But fear not, we’re here to help!

What is a Bridal Trunk Show?

A trunk show is a special event in a bridal boutique where they invite a designer to showcase their collection. Sometimes it’s a one-day event, but for particularly popular collections, it could last for multiple days. Often the designers themselves, or stylists from the fashion house will be on hand to help you find the right dress.

Trunk shows are a particularly good opportunity to check out a visiting designer whose full collections aren’t stocked in your city.

8 Expert Tips for Shopping at Sample Sales and Trunk Shows

So, now you know what bridal trunk shows are, how do you get the most out of shopping at one? Here’s where bridal beauty expert LaTonya of Elite Secrets Bridal steps in.

Located in Baltimore's esteemed Mount Vernon fashion boutique district, Elite Secrets Bridal opened its doors bringing to Baltimore’s bridal scene an experience that cannot be found in any other Baltimore bridal boutique. The pedigree of founder LaTonya Turnage, bridal beauty expert, has been fundamental to our philosophy to combine expertise and excellent service with style and grace. Leaving pretense to the side, we focus on bringing the best designer and emerging bridal gowns from all over the world to Baltimore Brides!

1. What Lies Beneath

Feel your best underneath your wedding dress. The appropriate undergarments will not only help you feel your best; they will help your dress look the best. Opt for nude-colored underwear and a great strapless bra.

2. Bring a Companion

Take a trusted friend—someone you trust that will give you sound advice. Honest encouragement and constructive feedback can be extremely helpful and great company can up the factor for your bridal dress appointment.

Leave the whole entourage though. Too many conflicting opinions can leave you confused and stressed.

3. Mind Your Budget

Know your budget! Bridal trunk shows often offer a discretionary discount (usually 10%) off gowns ordered over that weekend.

It’s a great way to spend a little less in the event you find your dream wedding dress.

4. Do Your Homework

Research the designer first – for a trunk show the boutique will primarily present the featured designer only.

Make sure you are interested in their styles and silhouettes to get the most from your experience.

5. Necklines, Shape, and Silhouettes Oh My

There are so many variations to a wedding dress. Have an idea of what neckline, shape and silhouette you like best. Research the different styles, so you’re familiar will the lingo, too.

You will soon find you have narrowed down your style and what is flattering for your figure.

6. How High?

Bear in mind the height of your heels you plan to wear on your wedding day when you begin your dress shopping.

Keep in mind that hemlines cannot be lengthened, only shortened, so it’s a good idea to take the maximum heel height with you.

7. Ask the Expert

At a trunk show, if you are lucky the designer or stylist may be there in person, take full advantage of expert availability and ask for styling advice.

With their experience and knowledge, you are likely to find that they know what suits you—sometimes better than you! Check out Elite Secrets Bridal’s upcoming trunk shows here.

8. Consider Your Timing

Know your time frame. Some designer dresses need up to eight months to be completed and altered.

Learn beforehand, how long the designer needs for your dress and let your stylist know if you’re in a time crunch.