Friday Favorites

Happy Friday, lovelies!

I've been on a quest for more "me" in my life...and all of these things just spoke to me this week. Here are five of my favorites...what new finds or loves do you have this week? Happy weekend!

Xo,

Brandi

1. Julep Wedding Nails. Loving these shades for a big day | 2. Just feeling a little smitten with this gold pattern by Saffron Avenue | 3. These monogram cups are perfect for the cup of joe in the morning...Soirette Stephanie actually bought me one last year for my baby shower and it has become my favorite cup since | 4. Loving the newest patterns and palettes from Plum Pretty Sugar for BHLDN | These candles from Anthropologie are equal parts cheery and chic.

A Beauty Concierge Program By Soiree

In over 8 years of planning weddings, four of which have been primarily focused on full planning with our clients, a few things have popped up that either scream "it's working", or "this is not working". One of the areas in planning that has always seemed just off to me- both to the client and to us as planners- has been hair and makeup services. In fact, if I've ever seen a bride cry or become frustrated, it's over this- and looking back over the years, managing hair and makeup has been one of the more frustrating areas for us too. After analyzing wedding after wedding, I realized the process tends to breakdown at the point of communication and vision through the beauty team. Most hair and makeup artists are freelancers, so they each have their own process, rates, style and preferred ways of communication. Brides hiring their own beauty pros either rely on referrals or use someone they know- even if they are not necessarily experienced in the unique timeline of a wedding day or managing a large bridal party. On our end, we found we were sometimes working with someone new near every wedding, and it was often like reinventing the wheel every time. It was only when we were working with artists we know and love that the process became seamless and the experience was at its highest for the bride. So we decided we were on to something.

I met with Camilla from Deco Hair and Makeup Design to go over this new idea, and over our many cocktails and conversations, the idea evolved first into creating a network of hand-selected artists, then into an actual concierge program offering a full experience to be pampered as a bride. We wanted a bride to be able to trust immediately that she was in expert hands and most of all we wanted her to be pampered and to be able to create some really great memories on her wedding day. Part of making this happen was ensuring that the process would be painless..no more interviewing several artists, but rather being paired up with the artist that best fit their needs and look for the day. No more comparing rates because each bride would be offered a customized day-rate package that would include her beauty team, travel, and any additional services requested as an easy to understand bundle. And best of all, our brides could rest easy knowing they were working with the best of the best for their day.

So now that we have been talking about this new program, releasing little sneak peeks here and there (we even hinted about it all the way back at our holiday party in December!), we are finally ready (and so thrilled) to officially launch it and offer it to our brides. The artists have been interviewed and selected, and include some of Boise's best such as Deco Hair and Makeup Design, Jamie Verner (Blush By Jamie Rose), and Gabby Marcantonio for Bobbi Brown. As the program progresses we intend to offer other types of services to even further enhance the wedding day or weekend experience, such as spa and nail services.

Currently the beauty concierge program is offered exclusively to Soiree brides as an add-on to your services, and is included in our full planning levels. While these amazing artists are already on our referral list, the program offers an entire wedding day experience with next to no planning on your part (and if all goes well, we may begin offering it as a stand-alone service too..stay tuned!). And we can't wait to hear how you like it! So many thanks to Tana Photography for spending the day with us to snap photos of these beauty pros in action. For more information please contact Soiree at contact@weddingsbysoiree.com.

Xo,

Brandi

Beauty Post | Holiday Party

Here at Soiree, we are getting super antsy for our upcoming Holiday Open House Event this Friday. Check it out, we will be pulling out all the glitz and glam (and a little champagne), and we can't wait to unveil our new beauty concierge service. We hope you will join us!

invitation design by Paperie + Pen

As we prepare, I've been honing in on all my favorite beauty tricks to go with my dress and heels. What am I loving this season? Lipstick! Here's one of the many "how to's" I stumbled upon. 

 source

How does that saying go? "Life's short, buy the lipstick." I'll definitely be taking this advice and trying out some different colors just in time for our little party!

Enjoy!

Lifestyle | End of Summer Pampering

How strange it is to think, "the end of summer", but I can't lie, I'm anxiously awaiting the fall season. And as I wait for this weather to start cooling down, I decided to treat myself to some much needed pampering, with a lovely little spa date yesterday. Which got me thinking, what fun at home facial remedies may be out there, just waiting for me to try! Perfect for a girls day, or just to get that pretty glow before a special event. I came across some fun ingredients to create my own spa day at home, because after all, summer or not, we deserve a little pampering!

Here's a few I plan on trying,

Avocado Face Mask

Kiwi Skin Brightening Mask

Cocoa Powder and Olive Oil Facial

Enjoy that summer sun while it's still out!

xo,

Inspiration | Hairstyles

Here are some wedding hair styles that are in vogue this spring and summer. Whether your hair is short or long there are several options that you can pull inspiration from. Create your own trend with a beautiful hair piece or a floral element that couple with these untied soft looks.

From Left to Right: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6

Enjoy the rest of the week!

Bridal Beauty | Winter Glow

Find photo here

Winter can be rough. Not only are the days shorter and the nights colder but my skin...gets a little lackluster. By January I am longing for Summer and that sun-kissed glow. This usually leads to a loose regimin of applying gradual bronzing lotion once a month or laying in a tanning bed for all of two minutes because the thought of skin cancer or wrinkles outweighs my dream of bronzed skin!

This year I figured I would try working with what I have and create a "Winter Glow" by taking good care of my skin. Instead of using any old drugstore face wash and moisturizer like I usually do, I invested in a new skin care line. My favorite part is the hydrating anti-aging skin serum. This time last year, I would have scoffed at using anything anti-aging, but this year all my resolutions revolve around taking good care of myself and my health. It's never too early to start taking care of your skin and who doesn't want a healthy, glowing complexion? If you're interested, the line I'm currently loving can be found here. There are many carrying similar serums so check out your favorite products and find the best one for you. Cheers to lovely skin in this lovely new year!

Makeup Tutorial | Holiday Glam

We love a great makeup "how-to", especially when it's in time for the holidays. So, as my family just finished up baking Christmas goodies, it was nice to clean up all the flour and chocolate and channel my inner Audrey to glam up as the holidays quickly approach. I've been searching for my favorite holiday inspired makeup "how-to's". Here are three fun looks I may be trying out this season- from day to night!

                Work Party Makeup                    Sweater Party Makeup                Holiday Cocktail Makeup



What is your favorite look for the upcoming holidays? We would love to see!

Kim's 2012 Holiday List | Accessories Galore

As I've been decking the halls, Christmas shopping, and enjoying all of those great holiday movies, I noticed everything I've been loving this holiday season revolves around those little, but great, accessories! And along with the fabulous bags, jewelry, and perfumes, I've also fallen in love with the soft pinks and the nude colors of the season, which add a simple, but glamorous touch to my wardrobe. So here are a few things I wouldn't mind finding under the tree this year!
Tis the season to accessorize...

From left to right:

1. Pearlescent Multi-Strand Necklace from Forever 21. Loving the pearls mixed with the chains, and of course the colors.

2.  BCBGeneration Coral Love Affirmation Bracelet at Dillards. I saw this in the store the other day and knew I had to have it. This fun little bracelet comes in so many different colors, with different words making each unique. There were so many to choose from I couldn't pick just one. I was thinking these could be the perfect little gift to give as well!

3. Black Metallic Herringbone shoes. Toms have to be some of my favorite shoes that I own, so when I saw these, with the subtle little hints of metallic throughout, I knew they were a must have for my wardrobe this year!

4. Royal Apothic perfume from Anthropologie. When Soiree went into Anthropologie the other week for some winter style inspiration, I came across this and decided it was my favorite scent of the season. This one is called, Noble Carnation, and it smells just as lovely as its name.

5. Eternity Scarf from Urban Outfitters. I'll never get tired of scarves, and one could never have too many. This one caught my eye. Big, soft, and of course, pink!

6. Marc Jacobs Leather Handbag. Coming from someone with far too many bags, I'm just dreaming big with this item, but it sure is pretty to look at. And it's the perfect shade of blush.

7. La Mer Triple Wrap Watch at Target. Saved the best for last, this is one of my favorite items on my list this year. The perfect combination of a watch and a bracelet, I couldn't ask for a more fabulous accessory.

Happy Holidays! And happy shopping!

Inspired By | Emerald

It was announced last week- Pantone's official color of the year is Emerald, otherwise known as color # 17-5461. But we know her better as a striking, jeweled lovely that seems to make every skin tone shine. Use the shade along with complementary colors like fuschia, purple, and cobalt, and don't be afraid to pair it with gold either. Black creates a bold statement and peach quenches our thirst for warmer spring and summer days. No matter what color pairing you choose, we can't say enough about emerald.

1. Emerald bridesmaid dress by Ellie Saab | 2. Emerald eye shadow by Urban Decay | 3. Green studded bracelet | 

4. Modern green, white and black invitations | 5. Green door in Later Gator | 6. Legacy pencil case by Coach

What do you think of the color? Smitten or so so? We'll be featuring our favorite color pairings with emerald all week long on our Facebook page, so feel free to follow along or to post your own favorites!

Xo,

Kelly's Holiday Wish List 2012 | Au Naturale

It's time for Kelly's picks of the season, perfect for the naturalist...

Left to right:

iPad 3: Because we're all getting a little techy around here. In fact, Kelly just got her Macbook Pro this week...welcome to the Apple world Kelly (read: her life will change).

Tuxedo blazer: For the love of the blazer. We're a big fan.

 Naked 2 Eye Palette by Urban Decay: A lovely, neutral palette for day or night.

 Alice + Olivia Peplum Dress: In the best shade- emerald!

 Simplicity cake dome: Every hostess needs one.

 Brown leather boots by Born Shoes: Rustic yet sophisticated all wrapped up into one.

* If you missed our other holiday wish list boards check out mine here and Stephanie's here.

~ Happy Friday!

Trending | Bridal Bun

The comeback of the ballerina bun has been gracing the likes of wedding photographs and Pinterest boards lately, bringing with it it's iconic sophistication and style. From its sister looks including the chignon, messy bun, and top knot to the most popular sock bun, we are loving the simple elegance any of these looks will bring on a wedding day (or every day, for that matter).

For example, our bride Samantha had all of her bridesmaids in buns for her wedding this past September- a perfect touch to the already vintage feel of her wedding:

Photos by Ampersand Studios

White bridesmaids dresses from Jcrew

Flowers from Flowers At Will

We've put together some more inspiration below to help you decide if it's the look for you or your girls too: 

And you can view a handy How-To tutorial here...

Messy Bun on Pinterest

Classic Chignon

Another Messy Bun up high

What do you think? Do you love it for a wedding, or prefer it for a more casual look? 

Fall Favorites + What I'm Thankful For | Kim

1

*.     As the days get shorter and drives in the car get colder, listening to my favorite tunes warms me right up! What’s in my CD player right now? Imagine Dragons and the new Mumford & Sons.

2.     Revlon Just Bitten Kissable balm stain. My go to color is “Charm”. I love this right now!

3.     This one never gets old for me. Sensual Amber products from Bath and Body Works- Smells magnificent and always puts me in the mood for fall. Not to mention, the body cream will keep your skin silky smooth in this cold!

4.     This month I purchased some super cute boot cuffs at DSW. They just fold right over the top of your favorite boots. These add a little something to my fall wardrobe, and there are so many styles to choose from!

5.     And lastly, scented pinecones! I mean it when I say these are my favorite. They smell so good in the store that I can’t help but pick up a bag for myself. They make my home smell so good and get me pumped for the holidays!
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This season I’m ever so thankful for my family and my best of friends who laugh with me, support me, and love me through all of my endeavors. I’m thankful for my education, for the opportunity to attend different classes and learn new things every day. And of course, I’m forever grateful for Soiree, and the amazing chance to work with an even more amazing team!

May your fall season be full of lots to be thankful for! Enjoy! 

20 Must-Have Makeup Tips For Brides

We stumbled across this great article for makeup tips, especially helpful for brides as they experiment with makeup, skin treatments, and new looks. I will always recommend strongly that brides use a professional makeup artist for their big day, but with the many parties, photo shoots, and other pre-wedding festivities that will take place, these tips will come in handy. Take a peek at the whole write up here and as always, no big-time skin enhancements less than 2 weeks away from your big day!

Creative Commons License

Any tips you'd like to share? Do tell in the comments!

Fall Favorites + What I'm Thankful For | Brandi

With November well on its way and Thanksgiving less than two weeks away, we thought it would be nice to share what we're loving this fall and some of the things or experiences we're most thankful for this year.

First  up, what I'm loving so far this fall:

This Night Balm from Bath and Bodyworks  is my go-to chapstick in the fall and winter months- I use it all day, not just at night. I especially like putting it on right before lip gloss as it helps keep my lips from becoming over dry.

Every fall I look forward to one thing- chili. I make crockpot chili a few times a month and my hubs usually can't wait until that first chilly day. I might have to share my recipe some day soon, but until then, here are some scrumptious looking ones.

I got this candle last month and my whole family can't get enough of it.

I have been on a long search for the perfect travel mug- and Starbucks delivered. I have a requirement that my coffee must be a certain temperature at all times and I always hate it when I can't reheat the liquid once it's in a mug with some sort of metal on it. This one is ceramic like a real coffee mug.

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My list of things I'm thankful for this year are all very personal- it's been a big year! I'm forever thankful for my husband of 7 years...without him I couldn't run a business, be a mom, or be who I am today. I'm of course thankful for my son, who just turned 4 this week..and our new little one on the way (which, if you haven't heard is another BOY!!). And finally, I am always thankful for my Soiree team...without them I wouldn't be able to realize this dream I had years ago.

What are you thankful for this holiday season? Have any goods to share? Do tell! 

Beauty | Bold lips for Fall

Image

Bold color on lips is in this Fall, in a big way...and I have to say I like it! It may seem a little intimidating for those of us off the runway but I decided to take my chances and brave the Sephora lipstick section. I ended up purchasing a deep shade much like this one and then another more coral shade. I felt a little different at first wearing such a bold lip but I received quite a few compliments and by the end of the day was assuredly strutting around like a glamorous lipstick-wearing woman. Paired with a basic lined eye, this look is quick and easy but looks polished and put together. I dare you to go purchase a new hue if you don't already own a nice rich one. Don't play it safe, give this look and try and be bold!:)

DIY Beauty Mask

Lately, in my er..disposition, I've noticed that I seem to be in puberty again. Not only are things changing, but I'm breaking out like an adolescent teenager. My combination complexion, normally fairly tame and sans drama is now tainted with landmines near daily. So I've been on the lookout for some home remedies free of harsh chemicals and the like and one of my favorites is this super simple, 3 ingredient lovely- all at the ready in the pantry.

Honey, nutmeg, and cinnamon are all you need- it really can't be any simpler than that.

HONEY CINNAMON FACE MASK

INGREDIENTS

1 Tbsp honey
1 tsp cinnamon powder
1 tsp nutmeg powder

DIRECTIONS

Mix all ingredients together in a bowl, then apply the mask to clean skin. Let it sit for approximately 20 minutes, then wash off with lukewarm water, gently rinsing in circular motions. Moisturize as usual and apply weekly. Because cinnamon brings blood to the surface of the skin, sensitive skin types should take precaution when attempting this recipe.

Head over to Beautylish to read the whole article, and do let us know if you try it out! And as always- especially if you're a bride, plan on ending your beauty adventures no later than 1 week prior to your wedding just in case you have an adverse reaction. 

~Happy beautifying!

Xo,

Bridal Beauty | Interview With Lunchbox Wax Salon

A few weeks ago Stephanie had the opportunity to interview Debi Lane, owner of Boise's LunchBOX, a wax salon featuring all sorts of services guaranteed to have you smooth, silky, and looking your best. We decided to interview the salon because, well, we were interested in this kitchy new business in downtown Boise (we know you were wondering about it too), and we thought it would be a great place to refer brides and their bridal parties to get really ready for the big day. LunchBOX offers more than just typical waxing, too- from speed waxing to eye lash extensions- and we couldn't wait to ask Debi what they were all about. Not to mention, wouldn't you agree that there is a certain mystery that comes with preparing for and choosing waxing services? And if you're anything like me, maybe a little frightened about the whole experience? Without further adieu, we hope you enjoy and that this interview will shed a little light on the subject!

Soiree: You perform a wide array of skin treatments including a Body Buff and Bronze. This could be perfect for a bride who wants that sun-kissed, glowing look. How long does the bronzed effect last on the skin? How many days before the wedding day should a bride book an appointment for this?

Lunchbox (LB): Facial Treatments require a consultation with the Bride 3-4 weeks prior to determine which treatments would suit her skin type and desired results. Then, we usually see the Bride once a week for brightening and tightening 30-minute facial treatments. We also have plans for Brides who have acne concerns or sensitive skin.

Body Buff and Bronze are best done three (3) days prior. This way the bronzer can completely penetrate and activate, with time to shower a few times so it won’t come off on garments.

Soiree: The eyelash extensions and lash/eyebrow tinting sound great for brides wanting to swim, snorkel, and sunbathe on their honeymoons all while looking naturally beautiful. How many days/weeks do all these applications last for? Do you have any special recommendations for making them last as long as possible?

LB: Eyelash Extensions are by far the most popular way to go for Brides. Our expert application will enhance the eyes for pictures, the big day (and weeks after), and they are cry-proof! We go over care of the extensions, but generally, to make them last as long as possible we recommend not touching them and keeping oils away from the eye area.

Eyelash and Brow Tinting are fabulous ways to also enhance the eyes. Eyelash tinting will dramatically darken the eyelashes, however, will not lengthen them. It is great for a more natural (but enhanced) look. Tinting usually lasts about 2-3 weeks. Brow Tinting is a fabulous way to get a really finished look to the brows. We custom blend the colors so that we match the skin tone and hair color of the client for a perfect match. No Groucho Marks Brown, promise!

The most requested brow service we provide is our ultra-popular Brow Makeovers. A Brow makeover should be booked about 6 weeks prior to the event. The first appointment with the Bride will include a consultation, looking through our Brow Book to decide which shape and color best compliments her face, makeup application training and a plan to have them in perfect shape for the big day!

Soiree: Is there one of the chemical peels you would recommend over the others for brides who want to look fresh faced on their big day?

LB: We usually recommend our Bright-White Peel. This gentle solution is formulated primarily for sensitive skin, but very effective for all skin types. This peel will strengthen and brighten the skin while helping to treat sun damage and other forms of skin discoloration. This multi-faceted treatment also provides anti-inflammatory, anti-blemish and antibacterial action, making it an excellent choice for Brides. This peel should be followed by our Oxygen/Antioxidant Hydrating Treatment. This treatment helps stimulate respiration and circulation within the skin. It helps promote healing and rejuvenates sluggish, stressed skin depleted by toxins, pollutants, allergens, and solar damage. She should start this treatment duo about a month prior to the big day. This combination will make the bride absolutely GLOW!

Soiree: All of the providers are certified in Speed Waxing, what exactly is that? How does it differ from regular waxing?

LB: Speed Waxing is a specific waxing technique whereas the Waxologist spreads a thin layer of wax over a large surface area and uses a special technique to quickly remove hair and wax. This make the process much quicker, and actually, much less painful. Our Waxologists are Board Certified Estheticians, but then go through 3 months of hands on training in speed waxing from our LunchBOX Trainer. This ensures that no matter whom a client sees, their service will always be consistent and fabulous!

Soiree: Do you offer any group packages for bridal parties who want to come in for facials, massages, waxing, eyelash extensions, etc.?

LB: Yes! We do many Bridal parties! We can either have them come in as a group and make it a special event, or the Bride can make a list of the Bridal party and we will give them a special discount.

Soiree: All of the services would make great gift ideas. Does LunchBOX offer gift certificates?

LB: YES! We can customize a Bridal Package or any dollar amount. They are wrapped and present beautifully.

Many thanks to Debi for taking the time to meet with us and share your insight about all of the services available. LunchBOX currently has three locations- Downtown Boise, Eagle, and a store in Ketchum as well.  Visit their website for more information on services, hours, and to make an appointment!

Xo,
~Brandi

Trending: Gel Nail Polish

Quite possibly our (my) newest obsession, gel nails (otherwise known as Shellac polish) are turning up all over- and for really good reason. Let me start by saying I never paint my finger nails. I have always preferred a natural look, with maybe a gloss coat for added interest. The main reason for this is that I cannot stand a chipped nail. I stare at it, obsess over it, and naturally begin picking at it, and find myself waiting, at minimum, two days before I'll actually take the time to remove the polish. It's like emptying the dishwasher- I loathe the thought of it. But when someone told me Shellac nail polish banished the days of chipping and drying and precariously trying to hold things with your forearms so as not to smudge the paint- I was interested.

Via

I had my first Shellac manicure three weeks ago, and I couldn't stop looking at my nails. So many compliments and my nails are strong with this stuff on it. A few facts I've learned along the way, from various sources:

- Your nails will be dry before you leave the salon. One of the biggest differences from a typical manicure or polish is that a UV light is used to dry your nails.

- The entire process only takes a few minutes longer than a regular manicure, and along with the UV light in between coats, will end with a clear acrylic-like coat at the end. For those of us that love the freshly glossed look of "getting your nails done" you'll love it even more when you can say they're truly your nails, nothing fake here.

- Your polish will last for 2 weeks, longer if you take a few extra precautions. But really? Two weeks? Imagine the free time (or how lovely your nails will stay on your honeymoon).

Some other things we've learned about the process along the way:

- Using a high quality nail oil will help to prevent your nail beds from getting dry. This is something I didn't know before having my first polish done- but will definitely be picking some up before the next.

- There is a slightly limited selection of colors compared to regular nail polish, and it's a tad pricier than the typical paint, but it's all worth it as far as I'm concerned. The polish comes out so glossy that even a nude or blush color looks pristine and doesn't bore me.

- You do need to take precautions on removing the Shellac as well. You'll need to soak your nails in acetone (which removes it quite quickly)- don't do what Stephanie and Kim did and try to peel the paint off yourself- you'll end up damaging your nail bed. 

So tell us, have you tried Shellac polish yet? Would you consider it for your wedding? Do share!

Weekly Faves | Stephanie

This week it's all about what Stephanie is eyeing now...

To Buy: 1) Smashbox Hydrating Powder | 2) Serious hair repair | 3) Much needed chocolate | 4)  OPI polish via the Caribbean Collection | 5) French coffee press

What's on your wishlist this week? Here's to a safe and happy weekend!


 

Weekly Faves

 For me, this week was all about getting back into working out, being healthy, and being sane.



Fage Greek yogurt is my absolute favorite go-to Greek goddess. I like to mix this with honey and fruit or one of the Davinci sugar free syrups. For any of you watching your sugar and carb intake, but love your yogurt, this is the way to go.

Lara Bars are a beautiful thing. I discovered these when I was pregnant with my kiddo and needed fast snacks without sacrificing my diet. These bars are all natural, with nary a word you can't pronounce. Bonus- you can find a variety pack of these at Costco.

I've been hearing more and more about these Lululemon yoga pants. I try to do my hot yoga at least twice a week, and need a good pair that will last all the washing.

Finally, this Mentha Lip Gloss is amazing in every way- good breath freshener too.

What are you favorites right now?

~ Brandi