Brides! Win a Wedding at Arena Stage.

Dreaming of a lavish wedding but don’t quite have the budget? You’re in luck: Arena Stage is giving one local couple the wedding of their dreams—currently valued at $80,000. The wedding package includes a ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception for up to 175 guests at the Mead Center for American Theater, plus free use of the venue, catering and a wedding cake by RSVP Catering, decor by Design Foundry, music and lighting by Bruce Pike Productions, floral design, valet parking by MJ Valet, a hotel bridal suite provided by the Mandarin Oriental, an engagement portrait session by Cameron Whitman Photography, wedding-day photography and videography, and a pair of tickets to the official opening night of Fiddler on the Roof—plus other surprises along the way.

The only catch: The wedding date is set for January 2, 2015.

For more information on the contest including how to enter, see here. Good Luck!!

Source: Washingtonian Bride and Groom

http://www.washingtonian.com/blogs/bridalparty/wedding-news/win-a-free-wedding-courtesy-of-arena-stage.php?utm_source=iContact&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Washingtonian&utm_content=B%26G+-+July+18%2C+2014#.U8lu3GdOW72

You're Invited: Carine's Bridal Atelier to host BLISS Monique Lhuillier & Monique Lhuillier Trunk Show This Month!

Brides-to-be! Carine's Bridal Atelier has two highly anticipated events coming up to help you find your perfect dress. Check out both invites below!

February 6-8 BLISS Monique Lhullier Trunk Show presented by Carine's Bridal Atelier

Brides-to-be will get a first look at the romantic Fall 2014 BLISS collection. Known, for her legendary designs, Monique Lhullier recently introduced the BLISS line as a reworking of some her most popular gowns at a lower price point.

February 13-15 Monique Lhuillier Trunk Show presented by Carine's Bridal Atelier

Just in time for Valentine's Day, brides-to-be can fall in love all over again with the Fall 2014 Monique Lhuillier bridal collection. Lhuillier is known for her ultra feminine designs, her special attention to intricate detail and her use of luxurious fabrics and this collection does not disappoint.

"The gowns had a romantic, heirloom quality, with floral, vine and lattice motifs worked in rich embroideries and delicate beadwork." - Women's Wear Daily

#WeddingWednesday: Luvabull Proposal

As most of our frequent readers know, we at Favored by Yodit are suckers for a cute proposal. When we came across this super cute proposal we had to share it. Check out how one boyfriend changed the sporting event proposal game with this flash mob proposal for his dancer girlfriend. *Grabs tissue*

If you need help planning a propoal that the love of your life will NEVER forget, contact Favored by Yodit today!

Real Engagement: Mahelet and Nate

A night of Karaoke bought Mahelet and Nate together in 2010 and unbeknownst to them was the beginning of the rest of their lives together.

"He bravely went up to sing multiple times, while I sat shyly with the group enjoying everyone's performances. Neither one of us realized then what the future had in store for us, but that's one of the beautiful things about life...the unexpected.

We are each others first loves, and it was well worth the wait."

Mahelet and Nate got engaged on June 6, 2013 during an intimate evening at his home after rain spoiled Nate's original plans. We can't wait to plan their summer wedding next year! Check out a few of their engagement photos below. Congrats to the happy couple!!

You're Invited: Black Bride Presents The Bridal Brunch DC

Mix and Mingle with wedding vendors in an elegant relaxed boutique-style layout at the beautiful Carnegie Library in Washington, DC. Dine on delicious brunch fare, and champagne cocktails from our “Married” Mimosa bar while being serenaded by DC’s finest jazz performers. There will be expert discussions, and a fashion segment featuring gowns from local elite bridal salons. Brides will find everything they need to plan their dream wedding under one roof! Top industry insiders and wedding experts will be on hand to offer tips, tricks and guidance in creating not just a wedding, but a lifetime experience.

Black Bride Requests the Honour of Your Presence

at

The Bridal Brunch, DC

Sunday, March 9, 2014

Noon to 5 p.m.

The Carnegie Library at Mt Vernon Square

801 K Street, NW | Washington, DC 20001

For more information and to purchase tickets click here.

#FavoredFr​iday Vendor Spotlight: The Girl Tyler Design & Photograph​y

 

Favored by Yodit Events is always looking for new vendors whose work we love to spotlight. Last week we came across an Ethiopian wedding video that we absolutely LOVED and decided to look up the company that put it together. The Girl Tyler Design & Photography "is a full-service wedding-enthused company that offers print marketing, still and motion photography, and stationery suite design to brides, grooms, and fellow wedding professionals". Check out the video and more about the company after the break.

The Girl Tyler Design and Photography focuses on four key areas:

1. Motion Photography: "We think the term videography stands as much for the type of camera as it does a robotic disposition: turn it on, hit record, repeat a few times, burn a DVD. In all honesty, we spend as much time crafting your story, choosing the right cameras and fine-tuning the settings, as we do editing after your big day. No one look is right for every wedding film, and we know how to dial the right one in. We call it Motion Photography, but it’s OK if you still call it video."

2. Paper Goods: "If you’re looking for CUSTOM WEDDING INVITATIONS it means you:

• want something completely unique
•  haven’t found “just the right” thing anywhere else
•  Seriously love great design (and paper too)

We’ve tackled Monograms, Save the Dates, Wedding Invitation Suites, Map Illustrations, Ceremony Programs, Signage Collections, Place Cards, Seating Charts, Menus, and so much more."

3. Still Photography:  "We know you don’t want to forget how in love you looked, your Mom tearing up during the ceremony, that surprise dip during the first dance or the best man’s wildly animated speech – it’s those moments and all the details in between that we love to capture as wedding photographers. We’ll let our images do the rest of the talking!"

4. Business Marketing: "Want your business to stand out from THE REST? We can tackle YOUR MARKETING with design, photography, and video.

We love working with other people who love what they do! We also know there are a lot of options out there today for consumers, which means you need more than your passion and awesome skills to shine. Let us help your business put its “best face forward” with a variety of marketing services – from logo and branding design to promotional photography and video."

For more information about The Girl Tyler Design & Photography check out thier website here.

Video Credits:

Hilton Alexandria Mark Center

Del Ray Baptist Church | www.delraybaptist.org

Beth El Hebrew Congregation | www.bethelhebrew.org

The Girl Tyler Photography

You're Invited: Brides Against Breast Cancer Charity Event in Reston, VA

In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Favored by Yodit Owner, Yodit Gebreyes is going to be a guest bartender for a charity event TONIGHT Tuesday, October 29th called Last Night Out from 5:30-9:30!

All ticket proceeds go to Brides Against Breast Cancer which is an amazing organization that helps Bride to Be's who are fighting the battle with Breast Cancer still feel like beautiful brides on their special day by offering them different services. The location is in Reston, VA and tickets are $35, food & drinks are included in the ticket price. Please spread the word on social media & email if possible today!

Date: Tuesday, October 29, 2013

Time: 5:30 pm - 9:30 pm

Venue: Vinifera Wine Bar & Bistro 11750 Sunrise Valley Drive Reston, VA 20191

Attire: Tacky!

Tickets: $35 purchase online, $45 at the door (Get Tix Here)

Included: Unlimited Light Bites, Adult Beverages, Entertainment, Great Networking!

You're Invited: Mira Zwillinger Trunk Show

 

#BrideToBride: Top 7 Things New Brides Should Know

I was asked to write a blog from the perspective of a wife to a new bride. In doing this, it allowed me to take a step back and evaluate my marriage in order to identify key principles that work for my husband and I. To my surprise, I found myself not accepting some of the items on my own list. Below are the top 7 things that work for The Greenups:

1. Keep God in your marriage

Bottom line: When God is not in your marriage it leaves room for the enemy to sneak in and create chaos. Pray for your spouse to be able to face day to day life. (An excellent book is “Power of a Praying Wife” by Stormie Omartian)

2. Happy wife…happy life

Often times I say this to my husband jokingly when I do not get my mind. However, I have found that I have to say this to myself because I do not take care of myself as I should. I have found that I get so caught up in being a good mom to my son and supportive wife to my husband that I forget to take for myself. What do I mean by taking care of myself? For example, I will make sure everyone in the house has eaten and forget to eat myself due to other items I need to get done for my home of my family. This often ends in me being sick or burnt out. When married, make sure you remind yourself to take of YOU! It is impossible to be a good wife if you are not healthy. This includes mind, body, and spirit.

3. He is who he is and will not change just because you say “I do”

Some women get so caught up in the mindset that “he will change once we are married.” WRONG! He is who he is. The same laid back demeanor and quiet disposition that my hubs has and the reason I fell for him is the same laid back demeanor and quiet disposition that works my last nerves at times. When this happens, I must take a step back and remind myself why I love this man and chose to marry him. As women we often get caught up in trying to mold and perfect things….eventually you have to let your man be who he is….flaws and all. The one thing men need to know is that you love him unconditionally with not only all his good…but with all his bad as well.

4. Forgive and let go

This point should be started off by saying “PICK YOUR BATTLES.” (I find that I am guilty of this at times.) If you find yourself always complaining about the socks he leaves in the middle of the floor, eventually he is going to get tired of hearing it….and you will be tired of saying it. Just save yourself the stress and kick the socks towards the dirty clothes hamper. Arguments should never be about right or wrong. It should be about what will encourage a healthier relationship. This is done by talking (not yelling) through issues and not only forgiving your spouse…but letting it go. By not letting go of an issue, they will fester over time and cause you to operate in your marriage as if you are in a war. Operating in your marriage as you would do in a war will cause you to look at your spouse as the enemy and not your partner. It is impossible to be happy and enjoy life when you are constantly in “defense mode.”

5. Men think differently from women

I am going on my fourth year of marriage and have been with my husband for eight years. So on top of thinking differently because he is a man, he is also left-handed!!! (My son is too and they look at me like I’m abnormal) This is one thing I struggle to understand! For instance, I have to allow him to things HIS way….no matter how much I disagree with his process of doing them. It is important to build your man up and not tear him down.

6. Men need sex AT LEAST 2-3 times a week

This means, do NOT hold sex as punishment for a disagreement or an argument. Unlike women, men NEED this release. I know…it sounds so simple. But after the wedding, when life goes back to normal and more items get added to your “To Do” list….do not forget your spouse. Date nights are a necessity.

7. HAVE FUN!!!!!!!

Marriage should be a fun, ongoing adventure. It’s easy to get so caught up in life that you forget that you married your best friend. The fun should not end because you both said “I do”.

- From one bride to another, Mrs. Greenup

You're Invited: Imagine! Vendor Showcase at the Carnegie Library

Wow On Your Wedding Night

Brides are you ready to wow your groom on your wedding night? You have so spent so much time preparing to look your best the day of, but don't forget some sexy lingerie for your first night as husband and wife!

If you are still looking, check out Victoria Secret's Bridal line full of cute Teddys, bra and pantie sets, babydall slips, and garters.

5 Reasons Why Every Bridesmaid Loves Weddington Way!

Being asked to be a bridesmaid is a huge honor. Standing next to a loved one as a sign of support for their new union is an amazing feeling. However, getting several girls to agree on one dress can be a bit of a headache. Body types vary, financial situations are different and more simply everyone doesn’t like the same styles. Weddington Way is a great online boutique that makes bridal party shopping easy for everyone. Check out my 5 reasons why every bridesmaid loves Weddington Way after the break.

1. It’s an online boutique: Typically all of the bridesmaids don’t live in the same area and if they do, schedules vary and it’s hard to get everyone to meet at one time. With Weddington Way you can shop online at your leisure and share with the other girls in one place. Each Bride will get a showroom space where ideas can be shared and comments can be made about likes and dislikes.
2. You get your own stylist: We all have that fear that the bride will pick a dress that you will never want to wear again. The dress that immediately after the wedding will collect dust in the furthest corner of your closet. Weddington Way provides each bride with a stylist that will help her chose from top brands in bridal fashion. Stylists are great in providing nonobjective opinions without being over bearing.
3. Pictures and Reviews of the Dresses: Don’t you hate when you see a dress on a model and it looks beautiful but when try on the dress it looks completely different? On Weddington Way they show the dresses on real people and have reviews from those women that wore them.
4. Try Before you Buy: Weddington Way has a great program that “For a small fee, you can choose from a selection of  about 100 dresses that can be shipped to you to try on in the comfort of your home!”  As a busy girl on the go I love this!
5. Group Discounts: Who doesn’t love a good discount? Lol If there are four or more bridesmaids and they purchase dresses from Weddington Way, your stylist will send you a discount code! Visit the site for more details.

Did your wedding party use Weddington Way? Tell us about your experience!

You're Invited: Bridal Workshop

RECAP: A Chic Affair

Yesterday, Yodit (Favored's CEO) and I attended A Chic Affair in Georgetown at The Powerhouse in Georgetown. If you have never seen or heard of The Powerhouse it is located behind Dean and Deluca on Grace Street. It's a very nice 2 level open venue perfect for the intimate bridal expo we attended. A Chic Affair was wonderfully put together with vendors, a panel discussion and bridal fashion show. Check out a few of the pictures from the vendors and the fashion show below.

Karin's Florist Put together this beautiful Floral Arrangement. Made us feel like it was really spring despite the cold weather.

How amazing are these cakes!! The Henna cake on the left was made by The Happy Tart and the Carousel cake on the right was made by M&T Events, both completely edible. I had samples of cakes from both vendors and they were delicious!

Of course the night wouldn't have been complete without a fashion show. We noticed a lot of mermaid style dresses with very dramatic bottoms and trains in the lineup. The Brides at the show looked very inspired! For more pictures check out Favored's Twitter page and Instagram: Favoredbyyodit!

Let us know which Bridal Expos coming up you will be attending and your experience. We would love to meet you there!

You're Invited: Style to the Aisle...a Bride's RUNWAY 2013

Don't miss THE premiere bridal fashion event of 2013 produced by Memorable Moments Event Planning Co.!

WHO: You! Plus Press, Event Planners, Trendsetters & the Sophisticated Fashionista Bride.

WHAT: Romance comes back to rip the runway for a 3rd season with an all NEW look to give brides that much needed "fashion for thought" as she prepares for her big debut down the white carpet. Come enjoy an uber-chic bridal experience, get inspired and celebrate your engagement in style.

WHEN: Sunday, March 24, 2013 | 3pm-7pm

WHERE: L'Enfant Plaza Hotel, Washington, DC

If you've been to countless bridal expos but have left overwhelmed & uninspired, you're in for a real treat! Unlike any other, this event is unique & lavish; its a place where an elite & diverse collection of some of the hottest trends from the region's best designers & bridal boutiques in bridal fashion and accessories come to the catwalk. Come enjoy a great afternoon of mingling with your entourage, sip complimentary champagne/cocktails provided by Chambord, enjoy tasty hors d' oeuvres & win some fabulous prizes. Meet some of the best beauty experts, receive onsite beauty treatments in our exclusive "Style Lounge" and some amazing swag for the first 100 guests.

Tickets can be purchased here: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/303133

Life as a Bridesmaid: Bridal Shower Addition

 

When I was a little girl planning my dream wedding and helping my friends plan theirs. Making sure everything was perfect and that all we needed to do was to *insert groom here*, I had no idea I would be doing arts and crafts lol. However, here I am painting boxes for my sister’s Breakfast at Tiffany’s inspired Bridal Shower.

I found the idea for some really cute centerpieces on Pinterest aka God’s gift to planners and thought this would be so easy to do myself! Of course when I say myself I mean me and my artsy friends. So I rounded up the troops and we went to work! The plan was to make Tiffany’s boxes to place on the dessert table and to collect the bride’s gift cards. We purchased everything from Michael’s and it took us about five hours to finish. Below you will find a list of everything we purchased as well as a few pictures. After the shower I will be sure to post follow up pictures so you can see how the décor turned out.

We at Favored love DIY projects. What did you make for a bridal shower? What was the theme or inspiration? Send us your pictures we would love to see them!

Materials:

• Paper Mache Boxes set of 5
• Celebrate it Ribbon 2 ½ in X 10 yards
• Celebrate ir Ribbon 1 ½ in X 4 yards
• Americana Acrylic Paint: Bahama Blue
• Glue Gun and Glue Sticks
• Brushes
• Plastic or Trash Bags
• Paper plates (to put the paint on)

You're Invited: Engaged! in Washington D.C. | Sunday, March 3rd

You're invited to attend the 4th Annual Engaged! Washington Event

Date: Sunday, March 3, 2013

Time: 3:00pm – 7:00pm

Get Tickets Here: http://engageddc2013-eorg.eventbrite.com

General Admission: $65 / Vendor Tables: $100

Begin your wedding planning journey at this amazing annual bridal event which whisks guests away in limo buses to three fabulous wedding venues to experience an extraordinary bridal event.

 Prizes: The first 300 brides/grooms will receive a fabulous goodie bag! 

For more information click here: http://www.engagedmagazine.com

Love Couture Bridal Presents Pronovias Trunk Show!

#DMV Brides Check out Love Couture Bridal's Pronovias 2013 Trunk Show this weekend, February 15-17.

Save 10% on your gown order! By appointment only. Make your appointment here

What is a trunk show? Trunk shows give brides the opportunity to see a larger selection of a particular bridal designer's collection, a discount is generally offered and sometimes custom changes are free. During trunk shows you do not purchase the sample. Your gown is made to order especially for you.