Elite Secrets Featured on MunaLuchiBridal.com

We are thrilled to announce that we are being featured on MunaLuchiBridal.com today!  Read all about the design details and inspiration for this lux "Black Panther" styled shoot.

Signaling a revolutionary moment in pop culture, Disney-Marvel’s “Black Panther” is one of the highest grosser of all time, with more than $1 billion. How can you not love the blockbuster film about T’Challa’s challenge to take his rightful place as the King of Wakanda and the Black Panther? The fight scenes are epic—it’s what makes a superhero movie, particularly a Marvel film—but, it’s the sub-storyline that intrigued planner and designer, Tami Brown of Blush Weddings & Events by Tami B. “In the film, there’s clear chemistry between T’Challa and Nakia, Lupita Nyong’o’s character. However, true Marvel Comic fans know that Black Panther marries Ororo also known as Storm from the X-Men group,” said Brown. Rumors are already swirling around Hollywood of Storm entering the storyline in the inevitable sequel. Can you imagine Storm and The Black Panther’s walk down the aisle?

This styled shoot takes us into Wakanda and right into the wedding of T’Challa and Ororo. The ceremony space was lavishly filled with royal elegance. Mirrored columns topped with lush arrangements of white orchids, hydrangea, and roses flanked the aisle leading to the ceremony. The queen-to-be wore a custom black trumpet silhouette adorned with a beaded corset bodice and a chiffon cape. The bouquet of white orchids added balance against her gown. The groom was outfitted in a black-on-black tuxedo befitting of the Black Panther. Patent leather shoes, of course, completed this regal look.

The reception featured black linen atop a mix of a king’s table and rounds. Gold chairs and chargers added rich depth to the tablescape. The centerpiece commanded attention with high and low blooms of white florals intertwined with glass votives and candelabras. A Wakandian wedding would not be incomplete with the country’s natural resource, vibranium. More drama was added with kisses of blue crystals in the floral arrangement and blue napkins made from Nigerian lace. The details were just as stunning. Black tiered cake with gold accents and a stationery suite with gold-on-black engraved lettering completed this royal styled shoot.

See the full shoot at https://munaluchibridal.com/lux-black-panther-inspired-styled-shoot/.

Vendors:
Photography - Clapp Studios
Planner and Designer - Blush Weddings & Events by Tami B.
Florals - Bella Fiori Couture Floral & Events Design
Venue - The Hotel at University of Maryland
Cinematography - C Spot Media
Cake - Fresh Bakery
Stationery - Designs by Robyn Love
Bride’s Dress - Khemistry
Groom’s Tuxedo - The Tuxedo House
Rentals - Select Events and Lush Couture Rentals
Bridal Hair and Makeup - Elite Secrets Bridal

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.

[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.
• 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 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.
• 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.

Join us for the Spring into the Grand on Wednesday, March 28 from 4 PM -7 PM! We will celebrate the wedding season at The Grand Baltimore at 225 N. Charles. There will be cocktails and bites. Can't wait to mix and mingle next Wednesday!

Everything you need to know about bridal hair and makeup trials

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 a professional 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 hair stylist and makeup artist is not an easy mission which is why bridal trials are SO IMPORTANT. A bridal trial will give you an opportunity to test the looks you like and the skill of the artist. 

Here are a few tips for bridal trial success. 

1. PLAN THINGS AHEAD
Coming to your hair and makeup trial prepared will help you 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.

2. YOUR WEDDING DRESS COMES FIRST ON THE SHOPPING LIST
There is a big reason why you should purchase your wedding dress first. According to wedding makeup and hair experts, the entire look should revolve around your dress. Your hair and makeup should balance its style, length and level of details and always comply with it. That is why it is important to buy your dress first and bring a photo of it to the trial!

3. 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 perfectly 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.

4. SCHEDULE A LONG ENOUGH APPOINTMENT
Your Baltimore bridal makeup appointment should be long enough, especially 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.

KEEP READING FOR A BIG ANNOUNCEMENT! 

5. 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 clean face holds makeup better and will let us make the look perfectly match the color of your natural skin without makeup.

6. TAKE NOTES
As soon as you book your wedding makeup and arrive at your appointment, you should start taking notes on how to touch up your look during the day- so you know how to fix any smudges in case they happen during the ceremony or afterward. At Elite Secrets we give every bride a touchup kit with all the items needed to keep your glowing look throughout the Big Day.

7. GO CAMERA CRAZY
Once your bridal makeup and hair are done, 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 in every minute during your wedding.

Ready to book with us? We have something special for you! In honor of Women’s Month, we are giving 50% off bridal hair and makeup trials. Yes, enjoy half off your trial for the entire month of March! Book your hair and makeup trial with Elite Secrets today.

{EVENT RECAP} Beauty Week 2018 and Random Acts of Kindness

Last week was Random Acts of Kindness Week, but at Elite Secrets Bridal kindness is far from random. For the cause that celebrates spreading kindness for global impact, the team spent a day giving back to the women of the House of Ruth Maryland in true Elite Secrets Bridal fashion—serving makeup applications, hair styling, gift bags and an overall day of beauty. 

House of Ruth Maryland is one of the nation’s leading intimate partner violence centers, helping thousands of battered women and their children find the safety and security that so many take for granted. House of Ruth Maryland leads the fight to end violence against women and their children by confronting the attitudes, behaviors, and systems that perpetuate it, and by providing victims with the services necessary to rebuild their lives safely and free of fear.
Although it's celebrated one week out of 52 weeks in the year, Random Acts of Kindness is a way of life for Elite Secrets owner, LaTonya Turnage. “I believe that giving to others and sharing my gifts is my purpose—it’s what I was called to do. I promised God that I would use my gifts to bless His people,” says Turnage.

In addition to her generous gift to the women at the House of Ruth, 

• Elite Secrets Bridal hosts Brides Across America twice a year, providing free wedding gowns to qualified military and first responder brides. 
• The Baltimore bridal brand has donated proceeds from spring bridal trunk shows to For 3 Sisters—a locally-based, national grassroots organization with a mission to raise awareness and improve the quality of life for men and women affected by breast cancer. 
• And, in October Elite Secrets Bridal treated mothers from the Hope Project and Elijah’s Hope Foundation to hair and makeup. 

Elite Secrets Beauty Week 2018

We ended this year’s Beauty Week with a bang—or should we say, “with a pop.” We popped bubbly, indulged in cotton candy, and all things bridal this past Saturday.  If you weren’t there, you missed it. 

B'More Fluff and LaMarca Prosecco were in the building providing sweet selfie-worthy treats for this bridal fete. Brides and wedding vendors sipped and swayed listening to DJ Drift while makeup applications were in session. 

Haven’t booked your bridal hair and makeup trials? What are you waiting for? Just a few more days to take advantage of our quarterly special. Enjoy 50% bridal trials through March 1! Book your appointment here. 
 

It's Beauty Week at Elite Secrets...and love is in the air!

Elite Secrets' Beauty Week is well underway and we’re so excited about all the things we have in store for you this week! What’s Elite Secrets Beauty Week? Well, for seven glorious days beauty lovers you can enjoy discounts and events at Elite Secrets. Here’s the lineup of what’s in store for the remainder of the week.

WEDNESDAY

Love is in the air at Elite Secrets! Today, we have a special surprise on Facebook Live. Join us at noon today for a LIVE look at love! Pop on over to Facebook and prepare to be wowed.

THURSDAY  and FRIDAY

Enjoy our Half Off Special—our Valentine’s Day gift to you! It’s always the perfect day to feel and look good. Come in choose any our services for half off the regular price. That includes bridal hair and makeup trials!

SATURDAY

Calling all friendors, newlyweds, and brides join us for this special open house this Saturday. We’ve teamed up with B'more Fluff and LaMarca Prosecco for an event you don’t want to miss.

We can't wait to see you at the Elite Secrets Cotton Candy and Bubbly Social on Saturday, February 17th from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

The celebration does not have to end after this week. Our Bride event extends through the entire month. Brides, book your bridal trial before March 1st and receive half off the cost of the session. Hurry slots are filling quickly! Book your trial here.

{EVENT RECAP} Elite Secrets Takes on Baltimore Bride’s Aisle Style

On Monday, January 22, Elite Secrets Bridal showed up and showed out for Baltimore Bride’s 2018 Aisle Style Event, a luxury bridal show for brides and bride tribes held at the esteemed Four Seasons Baltimore. 

As the official makeup sponsor, the Elite Secrets squad was tasked with doing makeup for all the models in the fashion show—the grand finale for the event.

With over 200 brides attending this event, the Four Seasons was bursting with energy. Attendees had a ball mixing and mingling with some of Baltimore’s most elite wedding vendors, bites from the hotel, and champagne cocktails from the pop-up Champagne bar. It was a night to remember!

And, as any night to remember, we hate to see it end. In the spirit to keep this excitement going and to thank you, our Elite Friends in a major way, we have a big giveaway. One of our grandest giveaways, yet!  Everyone that attended Aisle Style on Monday can qualify for one entry into our contest for $250 off an Elite Secrets Bridal wedding gown of their choice, or $150 toward bridal hair and makeup.

To qualify you must:

1.    Go to Instagram and follow us  @elitesecretsbridal;

2.    Tag us in one of your own photos from the Aisle Style Event;

3.    Two lucky winners will win either $250 off her bridal gown or $150 off bridal hair and makeup.

Good Luck!

Stay Tuned

The event is over, but the great deals are still here. Stay tuned and don’t forget to join the Elite List to get tips and special directly in your inbox.

{Event Recap} Holiday Open House, MinkMaids Trunk Show, and Prayer Night

Last Saturday, December 16, we had our first annual holiday open house. And, if you weren’t there you missed it!

Some of Baltimore’s Elite showed up for a party to remember. Guests enjoyed a treasure trove of holiday sweets and festive drinks. And, the sights were just as impressive. Models worked the room donning the latest in bridal wear. The beauties showcased dresses by Allure and MinkMaids and hair and makeup by Elite Secrets, of course!

Between mixing and mingling our Elite clients and friends had fun taking photos with Megapixel Media in front of our infamous flower wall.

At the end of the night, we announced the winner of our raffle. A lucky attendee walked away with a ticket to the Baltimore Bride’s Aisle Style Event.

Thank you to our bridal event manager, Sabrina, Megapixels Media, the ladies of Bird of Paradise Events, Sarah Beth Ramsey, Events by Lady J, New Beginnings Event Management, Tira Lynn Events, Alexis Wilkins Events, and Mr. Keith of Christopher Schafer Clothier.

We kicked off the month with our first MinkMaids Trunk Show. Brides and local wedding vendors gathered at our Mount Vernon bridal boutique to shop and mingle over champagne. Not only did we feature stunning wedding dresses from the collection, but ready-to-wear evening gowns—perfect for bridesmaids, mother of the bride, or festive holiday events. The MinkMaids Trunk Show was a huge hit!

In fact, because the show was such a success we’ve extended the MinkMaids Trunk Show for a New Year’s Special! Enjoy 10% off MinkMaids ready-to-wear evening gowns and 50% off New Year’s makeup! Ring in the New Year with head to toe glam from Elite Secrets and MinkMaids.

Our last event of the year, took place last night—our Prayer night. With so many things to be grateful for, ending the year in prayer could not be more fitting. Led by of dear friend Tonya, we praised God for all the blessings bestowed in 2017 and thanked him for blessings, increase, victory, and favor for the new year.

We can’t end this blog post without thanking all of you. This year has been amazing, and we are tremendously grateful for your support—whether you read the blog, liked a post, shopped with us, referred a friend, or stopped by the showroom. No deed—big or small—positive thought, or prayer went unnoticed. We thank you for everything! Have a happy holiday!

xoxo,

LaTonya

Tis the season to be giving

Hello Elite Friends,

Here we are with 12 days until Christmas. Since the trunk show, we’ve been busy decorating the showroom and stocking up on eggnog to prepare for the best holiday of the year. And, speaking of year, it’s been an amazing one!

In the spirit of holiday cheer and giving, we want to do something special for you! So, we’ve enlisted a few of our dear wedding friendors to spread some love to brides on Santa’s list.

Starting this week, we’re giving away prizes from brands like:

Mrs. Box

Bella Bridemaids

Chip Dizard Weddings

Loco Color Flowers

Winnie's Bakery

Charles Street Barre...and more!

To enter: Book an appointment between now and the end of the year. 

To win: Winners will be chosen weekly and contacted via email. 

Good luck, Elite Ladies!

More Elite Holiday Events

December 16 Tis the season to be married! Join us at our holiday OPEN HOUSE at our brand new bridal showroom! View our space while enjoying holiday cheer, champagne, sweet treats, and holiday tunes! Also, enter to win one FREE ticket to Baltimore Bride's Aisle Style event at the Four Seasons Baltimore! Bring a friend. All are welcome! Click here for more info.

December 19 Join us for our END of THE YEAR powerful prayer hour! Prayer begins promptly at 7:00 pm. This is a time to come together and pray with and for one another! Prayer changes things! Click here to learn more.

Elite Secrets Bridal in Baltimore Bride Magazine

We are so thrilled to see our ad in the new issue of Baltimore Bride Magazine!! On stands now, the Spring/Summer issue of the publication arrived on our doorstep yesterday.

Featuring our favorite IT girl and model, Lashira Monae is wearing a beautiful lace gown from the Justin Alexander collection. To complete the look, our in-house bridal stylist accessorized the model with custom jewelry from Iliena George. And we can’t forget the show-stopping makeup and hair by Elite Secrets, of course. All of the images were captured by our fabulous photographer friendor at Belle Imagery Portraits.

See more Elite Secrets makeup artistry live at Baltimore Bride Magazine’s Aisle Style event, January 22. We’re the exclusive makeup sponsor of the annual runway style bridal fashion show. For more information and tickets visit https://www.baltimorebridemagazine.com/aisle-style-2018.

…But in the meantime, check out more images from this shoot with Belle Imagery Portraits.

Ready to make your appointment with Elite Secrets? Drop us a line here to book your appointment now.

New Inventory at Elite Secrets Bridal

You asked, and we listened! We’re super excited to announce new arrivals at Elite Secrets Bridal. And, our new inventory includes Mermaid styles from an array of collections ranging in size from 2 to 32.

Perfect for the bride who wants to make a grand statement with her gown, the mermaid silhouette is fitted throughout the bodice and flares dramatically at the knee. The style is appealing because it looks stunning on most body types. It gives you that sexy feeling and at the same time gives you the feeling of a traditional bride with its full skirt effect.

Although the mermaid silhouette has been a bride favorite for some time, Pinterest reports an increase of 136% in pin activity this year, making it the favorite for brides on the social media site.

Our bridal fashion expert, LaTonya Turnage, shares her favorite looks here. These dresses are bound to go fast, so book your appointment today to say yes to your dress. 

Don't forget to book an appointment to try on your favorite looks today!

Three Big Announcements You Want to Know About

So excited to share all the incredible things happening at Elite Secrets Bridal. Who would ever guess that we would end an already epic year with an even more epic ending?

In case you missed it yesterday, I announced our biggest news yet on Facebook Live revealing our new bridal showroom in its new location. We’re still on Charles Street—just a few blocks from our previous space which is home to our custom and ready-to-wear boutique. Directly across the street from Bella Bridesmaids, our transition makes Baltimore’s Mount Vernon area a true fashion boutique district and Charles Street the epicenter for all things weddings.

Mark your calendars! We are having our very first indoor sidewalk sale this month. If you are getting hitched anytime soon, you cannot miss this bridal event. Check out our new bridal showroom and enjoy incredible savings. There will be super specials on bridal accessories and dresses discounted as low as $99. Who says your dream dress has to be a fortune? Join us Friday, November 17th through Sunday, November 19th. Just in time for Thanksgiving, you can say yes to your designer wedding dress. No appointment needed.

Finally (drumroll, please), Elite Secrets Bridal will be the official fashion show partner for Baltimore Bride Magazine’s Aisle Style. Check out the dynamic show and our wedding beat on live models, Monday, January 22nd. Take in an evening of spectacular harbor views at the Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore, while sipping bubbly, tasting wedding cakes, and sampling treats from local caterers.

At 7:45 pm, move into the grand ballroom and prepare to be inspired by Baltimore Bride’s third annual fashion show produced by the Stephanie Bradshaw design team highlights the newest styles in bride and groom fashion and beauty trends by Elite Secrets Bridal. Before the end of the night, enter your name to win fabulous giveaways courtesy of our Aisle Style participating vendors. Can’t wait to see you there! Get your tickets here.

Want to stay on top of all Elite Secrets Bridal news? Join our Elite List. Get news, tips, and specials delivered right to your inbox. 

Elite Secrets Bridal Hosts Trunk Show Featuring Mink Maids, December 1-10

Are you ready to find your dream dress and create a lasting memory with your bride tribe?

If this sounds like your jam, we have something in store for you. Mink Maids is hosting one show in all of the DMV, and it’s going down at Elite Secrets Bridal. For 10 days, we will be celebrating Mink Maids’ newest collection of custom gowns so mark your calendars for some serious dress shopping, December 1st through December 10th –it’s a can’t miss event for brides. Think clean, modern silhouettes, architectural elements with a side of sexy, AND a 10% discount.

For the out-of-the-box bride who wants a fashion-forward dress that can’t be found at every other bridal shop, the new Mink Maids Collection is everything you’ve ever wanted and so much more.

Imagine wedding dresses that will have your guests talking from the moment they lay eyes on you. Whether you plan to tie the knot in a garden ceremony or say I do in a city ballroom, Elite Secrets Bridal’s Mink Maids Trunk Show is THE place to find your perfect wedding dress.

Here’s how to say yes to your Mink Maids wedding dress:

1. Click the button below to book your appointment between Friday, December 1st, and Sunday, December 10th, or call 410.727.7000.
2. Grab your besties. We’ll bring the champagne!
3. Let’s make magic! Our professional staff is ready to serve you and your tribe—with bubbly in hand.

About Elite Secrets Bridal

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. If it has anything to do with bridal beauty, Elite Secrets Bridal is your source. We serve brides with beauty for their Big Day from bridal hair, and makeup to accessories and wedding dresses Leaving pretense to the side, we focus on bringing the best designer and emerging bridal gowns from all over the world to Baltimore Brides! For two years in a row, brides voted us best in class with the WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Award. Elite Secrets Bridal is located at 330 North Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21201.To book an appointment or for additional information, please visit www.elitesecretsbridal.com.

Beauty Expert and Entrepreneur turns Author: LaTonya Tells All About Her New Book

As you may already know, I’ll be speaking at MINT Conference this week. The MINT Conference is a two-day intensive powered by Brown Girls with a Camera, a group of professional photographers. The conference on all things related to the business of photography aims to celebrate, inform, collaborate and bring together photographers and videographers of color. The MINT Conference offers multiple sessions packed with experts of all kinds to share their knowledge, experience, and recommendations on the business side of photography.

So, I can imagine that you must be thinking what does a beauty expert need to say to a room full of photographers?

Great question.

I’ll be sharing advice on how photographers can level up in their business by partnering with beauty professionals. When it comes to getting quality images—the ones that get you published and get you the clients willing to pay top dollar to work with you—you need to get a beauty team on board. We share all the tips for meeting, vetting, and establishing a professional working relationship with beauty professionals from the moment you sign an agreement. Yes, you need an agreement…And, we cover the appropriate contracts and forms needed, too.

Sounds interesting, but you can’t make the MINT Conference? Don’t worry. I’ve got you covered!

I’ve compiled all the must-know tips, forms, and template into my new book, HOW TO BUILD YOUR DREAM TEAM: A GUIDE FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS.

As a beauty expert, I work with tons of well-renowned photographers. And, as a mentor to budding beauty pros, I instill in my mentees the importance of having professional relationships with photographers. I've established a process in my own business for working with photographers in a way that is consistent and professional and gives the clients an elevated, high-end experience each time.

WHAT'S INCLUDED:

•  Instant access to the digital download
• Tips and templates to personalize and enhance your relationship with beauty pros in less than a minute, giving you a consistent 1-on-1 relationship, including:
  • How to know what you need in a beauty partner
  • Tips for vetting the beauty professional properly
  • My Checklist for all the items you need to ensure they are the right beauty pro for you
  • The Standard Agreement Template--no matter the type of pro, this template works for them all
  • A Model Release Form
  • My customizable SOP, so you have something to send when a project's a fit

{EVENT RECAP} Elite Secrets Hosts Trunk Show Featuring Marina Semone

This past weekend, August 18th through August 20th, we hosted a trunk show featuring sought after designer, Marina Semone. Brides gathered at our Mount Vernon bridal boutique to say yes to the couture dress.

The definition of couture elegance, Marina Semone’s collection of gowns are incredible. From the romantic combination of stunning fabrics to the organic details and delicately applied beading, our brides fell in love. Imagine soft traditional fabrics, vintage details, and modern style all coming together to create some of the most elegant and show stopping gowns you will ever see.

Beyond extraordinary gowns and accessories, shopping with Elite Secrets Bridal supports a worthy cause! A portion of the proceeds from retail sales will go to For 3 Sisters, a Maryland-based nonprofit organization with a mission to raise awareness and improve the quality of life for men and women affected by breast cancer.

What’s next for Elite Secret? Our very own LaTonya Turnage will be speaking at the MINT Conference September 15th through 17th. Hosted by BGWAC, MINT is a two-day conference aiming to celebrate, inform, collaborate and bring together women and men photographers and videographers of color. The MINT Conference offers multiple sessions packed with experts of all kinds to share their knowledge, experience, and recommendations around the business side of photography. Tonya’s session on Building your [Beauty] Dream Team is sure to be a conference hit.

Interested in attending? Score your tickets here.

 About Elite Secrets Bridal

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, and fashion 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!

Elite Secrets Bridal Hosts Trunk Show Featuring Marina Semone, August 18-20

We can’t think of a better way to find that dream gown than attending a trunk show at Elite Secrets Bridal. Lucky for you, Friday, August 18th through Sunday, August 20th the Baltimore salon will host a Marina Semone Trunk Show featuring seriously stunning gowns that are all about luxe fabrics, flattering silhouettes, and unique details. Mark your calendars and prepare to fall so in love.

The definition of couture elegance, Marina Semone’s collection of show-stopping gowns is one not to be missed. From the romantic combination of stunning fabrics to the organic details and delicately applied beading, there is something for everyone. Imagine soft traditional fabrics, vintage details, and modern style all coming together to create some of the most elegant and show stopping gowns you will ever see.

With amazing customer service and serious know-how from the talented staff at Elite Secrets Bridal, The Marina Semone Trunk Show is a win-win when it comes to finding that dream dress. Grab your besties and book your appointment NOW to attend between Friday, August 18th and Sunday, August 20th. You’ll get to bask in the beauty that is Marina Semone, plus receive an exclusive 10% discount on their stunning designs. By Appointment only. Schedule your appointment at https://elitesecretsbridal.com/events/ or call 443-219-7049.

New And Noteworthy At Elite Secrets Bridal

July was an epic month for Elite Secrets Bridal with two major events, Baltimore’s RAW Showcase and Brides Across America’s Operation Wedding Gown Giveaway.

Elite Secrets goes to RAW

On July 19, the Elite Secrets hair and makeup team showcased their talents in the RAW Showcase: Fixate. RAW, an international community of independent artists, host more than 30 eclectic showcases each month in communities across the United States, Canada, the UK and Australia.

Every other month, RAW Directors in cities across the world hand-pick and spotlight local artistic talent in visual art, fashion design, film, music, performance art, hair & makeup artistry, and photography through local eclectic RAW events. With artists from all genres in each showcase, RAW events come together to form an amazing one-night circus of creativity. We were honored to be chosen among this Elite group of spectacular talent.

Related Post: {EVENT RECAP} STELLAR WEEKEND FOR ELITE SECRETS BRIDAL

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Elite Secrets Bridal and Brides Across America

July 21 and 22nd Elite Secrets Bridal proudly collaborated with Brides Across America for their Operation Wedding Gown Giveaway Event. The nonprofit’s annual event honors our heroes by giving wedding gowns to military couples and making their wedding dreams come true. The program is designed to reduce financial stress in wedding planning, financial relief, and transform lives. Since its inception in 2008, Brides Across America, in collaboration with bridal salons, designers, and individual donations has donated more than 20,000 wedding gowns nationwide.

“I’ve visited Elite Secrets as part of a Brides Across America event that they were hosting. I will be honest and say that I did not expect to have a stellar experience. I will be honest and say that I did not expect to have a stellar experience. I expected that since I was coming in to try on a dress to take home for free that I'd be marginalized, or shown only worn-out sample dresses, I went in with a very specific idea of what I wanted and was completely convinced that I wouldn't possibly find it," said one bride. "By the end of my appointment, I walked out with a gorgeous gown that I would never have chosen. I'm absolutely in love with it, and can't stop looking at it in my closet! I'm so grateful to Sabrina and Tonya (the owner) for treating me with such kindness, and making the dress ‘shopping’ experience wonderful for my mom and me.”

Over the two-day event, nearly a dozen brides said, “yes to the dress” and more than a dozen walked away with accessories for their Big Day looks.

Looking for the perfect dress? We’ve got you covered. Join us at Elite Secrets Bridal on August 18th -20th for the Marina Semone Trunk Show. Book your appointment today!

Elite Secrets Bridal Offers Relief to Brides Affected by Alfred Angelo’s Store Closure

Baltimore, MD, July 14, 2017 – Moved by news of brides possibly losing their wedding dresses, Elite Secrets discounts replacement gowns to $300 for couples affected by Alfred Angelo’s abrupt retail closures.

On Thursday, July 13, bridal retailer Alfred Angelo, abruptly closed its US stores (they have more than 60 and over 1,000 wholesale locations) and filed for bankruptcy, according to the IB Times, via The Wall Street Journal.

“We can only imagine the devastation these brides are facing right now,” says LaTonya Turnage, owner of Elite Secrets Bridal. “There is so much time and money invested when planning a wedding, and we want to ensure that the couples affected by this news can still have the day of their dreams. Significantly discounting select dresses is the least we can do to help the brides in our community.”

About Elite Secrets Bridal

Located in Baltimore's esteemed Mount Vernon fashion boutique district, Elite Secrets Bridal opened its doors in 2015, 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, and fashion expert, has been fundamental to our philosophy to combine expertise and excellent service with style and grace. To learn more about Elite Secrets Bridal, please visit EliteSecretsBridal.com.

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{EVENT RECAP} Elite Secrets Ends Anniversary Month with Sweating for the Wedding Event

On Friday, June 30 in Baltimore Elite Secrets Bridal hosted “Sweating for the Wedding,” a Zumba fitness class for area brides and bride tribes. 

With a goal to get brides and their best gal pals moving, we brought in Zumba Girl Boss, Crystal for workout unlike any other. Guests were treated to a 45-minute class, craft cocktails, refreshments, and a VIP gift bag.

With over 15 individuals attending, the room was bursting with energy. Attendees had an exhilarating workout to the tunes of hip hop, Latin, and R&B. The class ended with refreshing cocktails made with cold-pressed juice from local crafter, Gundalow Juice. A great time was had by all.  

Contest Winners

June was a major month for Elite Secrets Bridal and we wanted to treat our Elite Friends in a major way. Everyone that registered to our Elite List during the month of June qualified for one entry into our anniversary contest for (1) bridal hair and makeup trial, (1) makeup for a graduate, or (1) bridal veil.

We are thrilled to announce the winners of the contest:

(1st) shakiaw1982@live.com  

(2nd) clshort96@gmail.com and  

(3rd) brendajford60@yahoo.com

Stay Tuned

The anniversary is over, but the summer deals are still here. Stay tuned and don’t forget to join the Elite List to get tips and specials directly in your inbox.

3 Things You Need To Know About Our Anniversary

As July approaches, we are reminded that our anniversary month is coming to a close…but, the party is not over yet! Here are three things you need to know about our anniversary. 

We are still booking bridal hair and makeup trials at 50 percent off regular prices until June 30. So whether you schedule your appointment for August or December even, but book before the end of this month can enjoy half off your trail. Book Now>>

We’ve been in anniversary mode all month, so of course, we had to end the 30-day celebration with a bang. Join us this Friday, June 30th for our FREE Sweating for the Wedding Event at Elite Secrets Bridal. It’s the perfect happy hour event for your bride tribe or a fun twist on girls’ night out in downtown Charm City. Be prepared for 45 minutes of cardio with Baltimore’s best Zumba instructor, followed by healthy craft cocktails mixed with Baltimore-based Gundalow Juice, and makeup consultations by our very own bridal beauty expert, LaTonya Turnage. There are only a few spots left. Reserve your free spots here. 

Last but not least! Don’t forget to sign up for our Elite List. Every email entered this month is an automatic entry into our raffle contest. Winners will have a choice of

(1)    Wedding veil
(1)    Bridal hair and makeup trial
(1)    Graduation glam session (makeup only)

We will announce the lucky winners Friday at the Sweating for the Wedding Event.  
 

Elite Secrets Bridal in the News

We are so thrilled to share that Elite Secrets Bridal was featured in the Baltimore Sun! In case you missed it, our girl boss, LaTonya Turnage was featured in John-John William's Fashion 5 column on Thursday, June 15. 

The column highlights LaTonya's timeline as a makeup artist and announces our recent expansion into the wedding dress and accessories space. 

Related Post: {EVENT RECAP} STELLAR WEEKEND FOR ELITE SECRETS BRIDAL

This press hit was timely, as this month we are celebrating our anniversary! Yes, it's our anniversary! And, because we want you to join in our celebration we are giving brides HALF OFF hair and makeup trials. This special ends June 30, so book your appointment now! 

We will end this stellar month with a zoom. Zumba that is! Join on Friday, June 30 for a FREE ZUMBA CLASS. You won't want to miss this "Sweating for the Wedding" event. In addition to 45 minutes of cardio, we will have craft cocktails and hair and makeup consultations! Email us at info@elitesecretsbridal.com or call us at 443-219-7049 to reserve spots for you and your bride tribe.