White Friday Sale at Elite Secrets Bridal

White Friday Sale at Elite Secrets Bridal

It's that time again, and we are happy to be ringing in the season with you! Join us for our annual White Friday Sale starting this Friday, May 4th in our bridal showroom on North Charles Street (across the street from Bella Bridesmaids) in downtown Baltimore. 
 

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This sale was such a success last year, we've decided to bring it back this year. So grab your favorite girls—mom, sis, and grandma, too—and come ready to find your dream dress. Our stylists are on stand by to offer you and your tribe the ELITE experience you deserve. 

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Enjoy up to 70% off sample gowns,
plus 10% off all new orders! 

Visit the showroom this weekend. We cannot wait to celebrate with you!

ELITE SECRETS TAKES ON NEW YORK BRIDAL WEEK

ELITE SECRETS TAKES ON NEW YORK BRIDAL WEEK

ELITE SECRETS TAKES ON NEW YORK BRIDAL WEEK

From rubbing shoulders with some of the world’s top bridal designers and getting up close with (and trying on!) some of most amazing wedding dresses and accessories—our trip to New York Bridal Fashion Week was all kinds of epic.

We hit the trail to the Big Apple early Tuesday morning and headed straight to Metropolitan Pavilion for The Knot’s show. The Knot Couture Show is the leading forum for bridal designers, buyers and press to connect and discover the latest trends in bridal fashion. Powered by The Knot, Couture has served the needs of this vibrant industry for over 20 years.

Check out the photo journey of our trip!

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Want to say yes to your New York Bridal Fashion Week dress? Book an appointment today with Elite Secrets Bridal. We're waiting for you!

Elite Secrets Bridal Pays Tribute to Icon, Amsale Aberra

Elite Secrets Bridal Pays Tribute to Icon, Amsale Aberra

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Every year, the bridal industry unveils fresh collections of wedding gowns and a lengthy list of trends. But the truth is that there has not been a significant and lasting shift in what women wear down the aisle since the late 1980s. That was when a young bride, disappointed and frustrated by the mountains of tulle, lace and beading that defined wedding gowns at that time, decided to design her own streamlined dress.

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Amsale Aberra, a graduate of the Fashion Institute of Technology, sketched out an elegant A-line gown with a high waist and sheer sleeves. It was 1985, and that dress formed the creative seed for the bridalwear business she founded the following year and that she ran with her husband Neil Brown until her death Sunday, at 64, from uterine cancer.

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Aberra, a native of Ethiopia, helped to change the way that women presented themselves on their wedding day. She offered women an alternative to the extravagant fashions of the 1980s. Aberra created gowns that exuded sophistication, sensuality, confidence, restraint and maturity.

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She dressed celebrities like Halle Berry, Julia Roberts, Katy Perry and Ariana Grande, and her dresses appeared in the television series “Grey’s Anatomy” and the films “Runaway Bride,” “27 Dresses” and “The Hangover.” 

The bridal fashion icon will truly be missed. 

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No matter your style Elite Secrets Bridal has the wedding dress of your dreams. Book an appointment today and say yes to the dress!

Top 5 Bridal Beauty Trends for 2018

Top 5 Bridal Beauty Trends for 2018

Bridal hair and makeup are two of the most essential parts of the wedding planning process. The goal is to have your Big Day perfectly exude “you” in every way and make you feel like the most beautiful bride to be on earth. That is why we have marked these noted beauty trends for this year, as the top 5 bridal beauty tricks that are the 2018 movement. These are chignons for your buns, tiny florals for your waves, magnifying colors for your lips, glow for your skin and authenticity for your hair.

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The number one trend on the list is Chignons. Textured and styled to suit your hair, this new trick is a twist on classic chignon- you coil it around your bun. Loosely fitted on your hair this “non-bridal bridal” up do gives your hair a blissful embellishment.

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Bold Lip is the second tip on the list to take full advantage of on your bold day. With a few layers of semi-matte lipstick, you can make a statement pout seamlessly comfortable. This trick makes your teeth look whiter and flow with your glamorous dress.

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Trend number three are Tiny Florals. By layering your hair with barely-there florals, you get to be creative with styling your hair by simply letting it be with sprinkles of beauty on it.

Glowing skin is the fourth tip in the book. Having a radiant complexion by combining neutral lips and beautiful hair makes the gorgeous bride effortlessly beautiful.

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Lastly, going natural and embracing your mane to the fullest on the most personal day of your life. The trend for 2018 is to flawlessly wear your hair in its true beauty; from full on afros delicately adorned with pretty flowers to braided updos and twists.

Ready to rock some of these hot bridal beauty trends? We've got you covered! Book your bridal hair and makeup trial with our award-winning team today.  

Elite Secrets Featured on MunaLuchiBridal.com

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

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Your Spring Bridal Beauty Timeline Leading to your Big Day

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!

How to Find the Perfect Wedding Dress Silhouette

How to Find the Perfect Wedding Dress Silhouette

You’ve started a workout regime, changed your diet, and even banned alcohol. Now don’t let all your hard work go to waste. To maximize the results of all those wedding workouts, stick to dress styles that flatter your figure. Here are five common body types and what to wear for each.

If you’re a pear shape…

De-emphasize your hips with a gown style that flares at or above your natural waist. Consider a classic A-line dress or a flowing gown with an empire waist. Exciting necklines and detailed bodices also help draw the eye upward, taking the focus off the lower half of your body.

If you’re an apple shape…

Take the attention off your midsection with an open neckline, a full V-neck or sweetheart. You should also look for softly draped fabrics that won’t constrict your tummy and styles with asymmetrical ruching or beading that visually nip in the waist.

If you’re curvy…

Embrace those curves with a gown that shows off your hourglass figure. A mermaid style or dropped-waist dress is ideal, though pretty much anything with a fitted bodice will enhance your sexy shape.

If you’re tall and slender…

Want to downplay your height and create some sexy curves? Stick to more voluminous silhouettes. To accentuate your slim shape, go with a sheath instead—the slim styles cling to your body for a sexier take on the typical wedding dress.

No matter your size or shape Elite Secrets Bridal has the wedding dress of your dreams. Book an appointment today and say yes to the dress!

8 Black Women Who Broke Barriers in Beauty

8 Black Women Who Broke Barriers in Beauty

It’s Women’s History Month and with it being right on the heels of Black History Month—and because we’re all about beauty—we decided to pay homage to some amazing black women who redefined beauty.

From Madame C.J. Walker, who became the first female self-made millionaire, to Beverly Johnson, who became the first woman of color to appear on the cover of Vogue; black women have fearlessly fought and overcome the limitations placed on us by society with grace, excellence, and a whole lot of eyes watching.

Be it in film, modeling, business, or on the Miss America stage, we have had to create our own spaces in order to redefine society's ideas of what is beautiful.

Check out this video highlighting eight black women whose talents, intelligence, and innovation have changed the beauty game and broke major barriers while doing so.

Everything you need to know about bridal hair and makeup trials

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

{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. 

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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.

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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

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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. 

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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. 

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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!

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.

Love yourself and your skin this Valentine’s Day

Love yourself and your skin this Valentine’s Day

Pink, red and sugar-coated candy lips…oh, my! In case you thought Valentine’s Day would simply come and go without some beauty tips to prepare for our favorite holiday of the year, you will find yourself sorely mistaken. Read on for LaTonya’s skin tips to prepare for this romantic holiday and beyond.

1. Know Your Skin Type and Tailor to it

The first thing you need if you want flawlessly glowing skin is to know your skin type. Determine if your skin is normal, oily, dry or a combination of all these types. If you don't know this by now, you should take this quiz and see what type of skin you have. And, why is this important?

Well, it will help you in the selection of products and remedies before your special day.

2. Know That Great Skin Comes from Your Plate

Try to eliminate as many processed foods as possible. The truth is, your skin is the mirror of your eating habits. A lot of nutritionists agree that eating three servings of fruit and five servings of vegetables daily improves the health and look of the skin - just like cutting down foods filled with caffeine, sugar, red meats and greasy foods.

3. ...And the Amount of Water You Drink

Clear and beautiful skin is a hydrated one. That is why aside from washing your face with a good cleanser every day and every night before bed as a routine - you should also drink plenty of water and constantly stay hydrated.

The truth is, drinking an adequate amount of water will ensure that your organisms properly digest, absorb, and even excretes the foods you eat - but also that your blood circulates everywhere throughout your body.

After all, our skin is 64% water - it will thank you and glow in its natural light.

4. Invest in A Cleanser, Toner, and Moisturizer that Suits Your Skin Type

Once you learn your skin type, make sure to invest in the appropriate products for your type.

Another pro tip is always to try to get non-comedogenic products, which means that they won't clog your pores and create pimples. And if you already have a bad case of acne or eczema, make sure to see a dermatologist and get a custom treatment.

5. Buy an SPF 15+ Sunscreen for Daily Use

A sunscreen with no fragrance or oil is the best way to fight the overly tanned (or red) skin. All you need to do is get a sunscreen from a reputable brand that once again tailors to your skin type, blocks the UV rays and prevents skin damage and cancer.

6. Use an Eye Cream with a Light Diffuser

Eye circles are one of the worst enemies of ladies all around the globe. The worst thing about them is the fact that they are hereditary - which means that the only way to reduce their appearance before any occasion is covering them with makeup. Make sure to start with an eye cream that has light diffusers and would reflect light to make the eye look brighter. Then, use concealer only on the dark spots and always look for one that matches your skin tone and type.

Because we love you and you deserve the very best, we're offering a FREE 15-minute skincare session, (with a FREE sampling of LimeLight by Alcone Moisturizer) to all new clients. Schedule your appointment today!

What Your Wedding Lipstick Shade Says About You

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What Your Wedding Lipstick Shade Says About You

Not every bride treats her lips equally when it comes to the big day. Some prefer gentle and more relaxed lipsticks - and others are brave enough to go with the bold red. There are plenty of choices when it comes to lipstick shades, and you should know their meanings.

Mauve - Luxury With A Hint Of Mystery

Mauve is the softer shade of purple and a color that symbolizes a luxurious woman with a shade of mystery in her. It is great to show off your sophisticated style and portrays strength and confidence. Also, it is modern, trendy and stylish choice that many brides go for recently.

Hot Pink As The Color That Stands Out

Hot pink lipsticks are not for everyone. They are ideal for the brave and energetic brides who know how to light up a room and are never afraid to stand out. They replicate the center of attention and give a bubbly, excited and friendly flair to your wedding.

Coral - The Adventurer

Coral is a new trend and perfectly suits tanned brides with love for adventure and the outdoors. It replicates proud, bravery and ability to stand out for yourself. Brides who wear coral are lovers of the environment and want to spend weekends in the outdoors rather than sit at home.

Taupe As The Earth Shade

Down-to-earth is one way to describe taupe as a bridal lipstick shade. It makes your look wholesome and comfortable and at the same time genuine and dependable. It is natural and gives a hint of expression but at the same time laid back and not too flashy.

Bright Red For The Boldest Brides

Red is probably the boldest color of them all. It is sexy, passionate and confident. Brides who wear red lipsticks know what they want and what they deserve - and are passionate about their moods at all times.

Nude As The Confident And Classy Bride

Last but not the least - nude lipsticks replicate shyness and quiet. They are a great fit for brides who actually don't want to be the center of attention but still want to look classy and elegant and show their kindness and genuine personality.

Book your bridal hair and makeup trials today and enjoy 50% off now through March 1st! 

 

♥ ♥ ♥

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

{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.

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Why you don't want to miss out on Baltimore Brides Aisle Style Event

Why you don't want to miss out on Baltimore Brides Aisle Style Event

Maybe you just got engaged, or maybe the question was popped a while back and you’ve just been basking in the excitement. Either way, we’re glad you’re here, because planning for your wedding day fashion, hair, and makeup needs to happen a lot sooner than you might think.

Luckily, there’s an upcoming event right here in Baltimore geared towards checking off all those To Do's in one stylish place. Think of the Baltimore Bride’s Aisle Style as your own personal bridal consultation, chock full of necessities like hair and makeup tutorials, wedding dress trials and more. Sounds like the perfect way to take care of a bunch of things at once, right?

Aisle Style is happening this Monday, January 22nd from 5:30 PM to 8:30 at The Four Seasons Hotel Baltimore (200 International Drive). The day will be filled with a TON of personalized consultations with wedding professionals to help you create or complete your vision for the big day. Plus, there will be live bridal fashion show and, of course, canapés and champagne to get you feeling fancy.

See our makeup on live models, as we’re the official makeup sponsor for the fashion show. We will also have a booth so please stop by for your complimentary mini beauty service.

Grab your tickets here. We can’t wait to meet you!

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Elite Secrets earns WeddingWire’s 2018 Couples' Choice Awards®

Elite Secrets earns WeddingWire’s 2018 Couples' Choice Awards®

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We are thrilled to announce that we are the recipients of WeddingWire’s 2018 Couples’ Choice Award!! Announced yesterday, WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards celebrate the top five percent of wedding professionals who demonstrate excellence in quality, service, responsiveness, and professionalism across more than 20 service categories, from wedding venues and photographers to florists and caterers.

 

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Winners are selected solely based on reviews by couples and are determined by a combination of four factors: overall rating, the total number of reviews, review performance from 2017, and consistency of reviews from year to year.

Here are some of the great things our couples had to say:

“Working with LaTonya and her team was a dream! She listened to my views on makeup and kept me so natural and simple- yet glam! I wanted to step back and truly allow for her to do her job. She made me feel like my best self on my wedding day and I couldn't have been happier. Besides my overall look, she is one of the kindest women. Her kind words and sweet hugs were so needed in the moments before and during my wedding. She was genuinely kind..you could tell how honest and real she was.   Her prices and communication were awesome! I would work with her again in a heartbeat and recommend her for any bride.”

 —Meryl (wed on 11/11/17)

 

“The experience I had with Elite Secrets was one of a kind. Not only was the studio beautiful, but Tonya was a true artist. The blend of products she used on my face really were perfect and made me look flawless. It was wonderful to walk out of there feeling like a brand-new person. Not only is she amazing at her make up artistry... but I was truly inspired speaking with her and learning her journey to be a Girl Boss. I know I will be recommending her to everyone I know!”

—Angela (wed on 12/31/17)

 

You (the couples), chose us and now we want to celebrate you. To thank you we’re giving brides HALF OFF hair and makeup trials. Yes, that’s 50% off your bridal trial with Elite Secrets. Book your appointments here. We can’t wait to meet you!

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Should you pay for your bridesmaids' hair and makeup?

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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!

Merry, Marry Christmas Styled Shoot

Merry, Marry Christmas Styled Shoot

With Christmas just a few days ago, what better way to continue the jolly season than with this festive wedding inspiration?! It’s romantic, cozy, and green all over!

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This beautiful shoot is all about the warm and rich color palette. Evergreen wedding inspiration is everywhere from the greenery in the bride’s crown to the hue in the groom’s suit. The color palette had to be rich yet natural.  We wanted it to feel like the holidays but not scream Merry Christmas. Hints of cranberry red, evergreen and winter white with natural wood tones felt like a classic holiday card.

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Our bride wore a lace Justin Alexander gown with a sweetheart neckline. The glorious crown was the star of the show and the bouquet was just as dreamy with mixed winter greens, berries, and large white blooms. A perfectly coiffed updo and makeup with nude lips pulled the entire look together.

Venue: The Living Well

Photography: Bliss Culture Photography

Sugar Artist: Cupcake Syn       

Florals: B Willow

Bride’s Dress and Accessories: Elite Secrets Bridal

Bride’s Accessories: Ilieana George

Hair and Makeup: Elite Secrets Bridal

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

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

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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.

 

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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.

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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

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

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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.

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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.

 

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