Blush Tones

Introducing Ella by Essense of Australia!

2011-11-18T08:35:00.000-08:00

While we're no longer carrying Impression, Davinci, Kitty Chen, and Moonlight, we've expanded deeper into some of our best-selling lines, so we've picked up both Ella by Essense of Australia and Sottero & Midgely by Maggie Sottero. Ella's gowns are absolutely stunning- while affordable in price (ranging from $1000-$1400), they boast beautiful fabrics and exquisite design. From their website:

Ella features affordable individuality for today’s unique bride.

An enchanting collection accompanied with dramatic beading, lovely laces and beautiful fabrics, the Ella bride will walk down the aisle in elegance. With innovative designs catered for the destination bride in soft organzas, chiffons and charmeuses to the fairy tale princess wanting gorgeous satins and taffetas, the Ella collection will meet your design needs.

The designers at Ella are dedicated to producing the finest designs at a competitive price with careful attention to amazing quality, fit and finish.

Ella was gracious enough to send us some photos of their best selling styles to get your thoughts churning for what's to come from their 2012 collection. While we won't have any of these gowns in stock, we've purchased from their Spring 2012 collection and are planning an Ella and Essense of Australia combined trunk show the weekend of January 13-15, 2012. Here's just a taste!

Can't wait to show you all the 2012 images that will be on their way! Don't forget to mark your calendars for that trunk show January 13-15. We'll see you then!

Kelly Archibald & Jeff Dudley's Elegantly Rustic Pungo Wedding

2011-11-04T11:41:00.000-07:00

Kelly first came to Maya Couture in January in search of her perfect wedding gown. She narrowed it down to the beautiful Casablanca gown that she wore down the aisle and ended up finding the perfect bridesmaids dresses as well. Her bridesmaids wore long, eggplant chiffon Jim Hjelm dresses. In lieu of tuxedos, her groom opted for our midnight blue suit with eggplant ties from Jim's Formal Wear, ordered right through our store.

From Kelly:

When I first got engaged, I was so excited about shopping for a wedding dress. When I started going into shops, I realized that many of them were madhouses that were run by snotty consultants. I began to get overwhelmed. I decided to check out a little shop I had heard of called “Maya Couture.” When I walked in, I was immediately relieved to see real people working behind the counters who were helpful and knowledgeable. I fell in love with my dress consultant, Misty. She immediately made me feel comfortable and really listened to me when I explained what I was looking for. I could tell she was very good at her job, because she began picking out gorgeous dresses for me to try on. She chose a few dresses that I would not have given a second glance, and they ended up looking amazing when I tried them on. Misty had a great eye for detail and her taste was impeccable. She was very compassionate to the friends and family I brought with me. Everyone loved her and the store. My mom, my bridesmaids, and I called Misty numerous times, always frantic about something. She would offer suggestions and give great advice every time we called. She is so dedicated that she took off work on my wedding day to help me get dressed and to arrange my veil. I feel like I have gained a new friend in her. It is obvious that everyone at Maya loves what they do. The excitement in the store is contagious. I recommend this store for your wedding dress experience not only for the amazing dresses, but also for your own peace of mind.

Kelly's vision was always a rustic one, particularly with her venue being the farm in Pungo that had been in her now husband's family for generations. Working with Palette of Petals in Virginia Beach for the nitty gritty details of her wedding, she was able to bring elegance to her rustic reception. Below, see photos from Leigh Skaggs Photography of the gorgeous details and the great ensemble that she and her bridal party wore. If you'd like to see more of her photos, go to Leigh's blog at http://www.leighskaggsphotography.net/.

Oh, and their dog made an appearance, too!

Military Brides Say Yes to Free Dresses!

2011-10-11T11:26:00.000-07:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Military Brides Say Yes to Free Dresses!

In honor of Veteran’s Day, Maya Couture is joining Brides Across America and giving away free designer wedding gowns to military brides-to-be!

Event Date: Wed. November 9^th, 2011

Event Time: 9AM-7PM

Place: Maya Couture

12 Best Square

Norfolk, VA

757-461-1690

Norfolk, VA—October 11, 2011, Brides Across America, a nationwide charity dedicated to providing free wedding gowns for military brides, announced today that Maya Couture, Virginia’s premier bridal salon, will be giving away free designer wedding gowns on November 9, 2011. Bridal salons across the country are pleased to reward the military personnel who have served in Iraq, Afghanistan, Bahrain, Libya or Japan or whose fiancé’s are on active duty in these areas with this special pre-Veteran’s Day event.

“Without organizations like Brides Across America, many military brides would not have the chance to have a wedding due to deployment, timing and economic constraints. Many soldiers come back injured and take severe pay cuts. It makes it very difficult to make ends meet not to mention have a dream wedding”, said Heidi Janson, founder of Brides Across America. This is our opportunity to give back and say “thank you!”

Brides Across America and its partners have given over 7000 wedding gowns nationwide since its inception and are striving to double that figure by the end of the year. Participating bridal salons will be preparing a select number of gowns to be given away to qualifying brides on a first come first serve basis. Gowns are valued between $500 to $3,000 and range from size 4 to 22.

“In recognition of those who serve our country in these challenging times, 2011, our fourth year participating in the bridal gown giveaway, will be our biggest yet”, said Maya Warburton, owner of Maya Couture. “We have a responsibility to find as many ways as we can to support our troops and show appreciation for the service and sacrifices our military families make.”

Maya Couture will be donating a portion of the accessories sales generated during the Brides Across America event to support the Navy Seal Foundation.

To qualify, brides must be engaged, be on active duty in the military, or have a fiancé on active duty, and deployed to either Iraq, Afghanistan, Bahrain, Libya or Japan within the last five years. All military brides must show ID, copy of deployment papers, orders or other qualifying proof. Brides do not have to reside in the area where the giveaway is taking place. The gowns are pre-selected, and each event has limited amounts of gowns, and size ranges. The event is on a first come first serve basis.

About Brides Across America

Brides Across America, a Massachusetts based charitable organization focuses on providing free wedding gowns to those military brides that have not been able to have their dream wedding. Brides Across America is connecting with bridal salons across the nation to help spread the military spirit. Since 2007, Brides Across America and its partners have given away more than 7000 wedding gowns nationwide.

For military brides who are ready to take part in this bridal opportunity of a lifetime on November 9th visit Maya Couture, 12 Best Square, Norfolk, Virginia, 757-461-1690.

Let's Not Forget About Our Other Half!

2011-07-23T17:45:00.000-07:00

At Maya Couture, we often find that tuxedos are the part of the equation that is left until the very last minute. While brides have their gowns, their maids have their dresses, and their flower girls have tulle coming out of their ears, the men's attire is left by the wayside. This is usually for one of two reasons:

1. "I told him he's in charge of tuxedos." Great! We love when men come in the store and they take charge of what they're going to wear on the most important day of their lives. 95% of the time, grooms are wonderful at picking out exactly what they want and trying to get their guys measured and paid in a timely manner. The downside is that oftentimes their groomsmen haven't been married and don't understand the urgency of getting measurements and payment out of the way in order to guarantee your tuxedo order.

2. Lack of knowledge. Whether it's not knowing the time needed to order and get a tuxedo in, the value of the product that you're renting, or what vest and tie will match, lack of knowledge can cause brides and grooms to shy away from picking out the men's attire for the wedding. Thus, the tuxedo blog is born.

There are a few key points to remember in choosing and ordering your tuxedos:

1. Please be aware that tuxedo/suit exchanges are often necessary. Because these are tuxedo rentals, they are not a custom fit. Tuxedos and suits have to go through a tailoring process just like bridal gowns and maids dresses, and we have a very small window to do all the alterations and exchanges within. You and your party should be prepared to come in more than once if adjustments and exchanges are necessary, and be patient with the process. This is to ensure you are properly fitted and look perfect for your special day.

2. Please understand that we are very limited in what alterations we can make to rental items. We can only let out or taken in jackets and pants if time permits. If time does not permit us to make alterations, we will order you a new item which will arrive the next day unless we call in the exchanges after 5:00pm - then there could be a 48-hour turnaround.

3. If anyone in your party lives out of state and is arriving the day before or the day of your event, it will be difficult to ensure that they are properly fitted. To make sure we have plenty of time for exchanges and to make it more convenient for your out-of-state groomsmen, we can ship their rental to them directly the week of the wedding at their request. Any exchanges can come to the store and be picked up by another member of the party or shipped to your wedding location. There is not an additional fee for this service.

4. In an ideal world, your groom, groomsmen, ushers, dads, ring-bearers and all the wonderful men in your life will have been measured and paid at least two months prior to the wedding so that we can ensure the accuracy of your full order.

Jim's Formal Wear, our tuxedo provider, offers a great service in their "Build a Tux" program on their website at www.jimsformalwear.com. Check it out with your fiancee, then make an appointment to come see one of our consultants to start the tuxedo process today!

Strapless Alternatives

2011-07-02T14:19:00.000-07:00

Ever since the epic wedding of Princess Kate & Prince William, brides have been inquiring as to the trend changes that we've been seeing in wedding gowns. While a strapless gown looks great on any bride, we're seeing more and more styles come out that have straps, whether it be a one-shoulder strap, beaded spaghetti straps, sleeves, jackets, or cap sleeves.

Essense of Australia just sent the store some beautiful gowns that I'm going to use as examples. The first is one of my personal favorites, Essense of Australia D1210:

The bodice of the dress is beautifully beaded with small floral appliques throughout. What I love about the gown is the sheer straps- they're beautiful and delicate, but still substantial. The gown can also be altered to be strapless if requested. This dress is perfect for a girl who isn't very busty due to the shallow bust-linen and deeper v-neck, and the cummerbund waistline is perfect to show off the smallest part of your silhouette. Additionally, keeping things modern, the gown has pockets!

The next gown is Essense of Australia D1245:

The beauty of this gown is that it's the perfect fitted gown for a girl of any size- whether you are a 2 or a 20, the way the gown is rouched will be gorgeous on your figure. The sleeves are just an added bonus- because the detail work goes below the bust-line and wraps around the shoulder, it highlights the bust, again, great for girls who aren't very busty, or for girls who are busty and want a gown that has straps without a deep "V" to over-accentuate their cleavage.

Maggie Sottero's "Bernadette" offers a beautiful alternative with lace cap sleeves, a higher neckline, and a gorgeous cut-out in the back:

Bernadette is made with gorgeous beaded lace, with beaded embellishment under the bust. This gown is great for shorter girls- the lines of the sleeves and the placement of the embellishment will elongate your body.

A lot of brides lately are looking for a more "fun" look. Pronovias' "Alison" is a great way to mix classic and fun with it's flirty one-shoulder ruffle:

Alison has beautiful clean lines, and is even more beautiful with an accenting beaded sash of your choosing. We also have two other gowns in the store that mimic this ruffled one-shoulder look. If you don't like the ruffled look, flowers are also very "in" right now, and Val Stefani has created this beautiful gown (D79793) for an alternative:

Made out of a beautiful silk, this gown boasts a removable floral strap that complements the floral accents at the skirt.

There are a ton of brides lately that are looking for a short gown, and Moonlight has the perfect one with straps- with a lace bodice and a bow at the waist, the gown is full with pockets. The most crucial part is finding the right pair of shoes!

There are much more where those came from... we've made an effort to stock the store with beautiful alternatives for those brides that don't want a strapless gown, and new gowns from our Fall 2011 collections are coming in daily. I'm excited to continue to share them with you via the blog and Facebook- be on the lookout!

Jennifer Wood-Adams: A Beautiful Beach Wedding on a Budget!

2011-06-28T04:39:00.000-07:00

Date: March 26, 2011 at 5pm

Location: Marshes Lighthouse, Manteo, NC

Reception: Adrianna’s Restaurant, Manteo, NC

Photographer: Matt DeJesus Photography

Planner: that would be me

Florist: The Embellishers, Outer Banks, NC

My theme was elegant Moroccan with the colors of eggplant and amber.

Nick and I met on January 2, 2010 on a day trip to NYC. I was living in Rye, NH and he in Chesapeake, VA. He had a friend in Boston that he was visiting over the holidays. I had a photographer friend that organized the day trip and he had friends from NH and MA that were coming. Nick’s friend happened to be in the group and invited him to come. We met on the bus trip from Boston to NYC, hit it off the entire day and the rest is history. There are many more details on our wedding website: www.nickandjen.matthewdejesus.com

Planning tips:

1. Try to purchase used decorations. Websites like the WeddingBee.com and BravoBride.com are fantastic! I found them very useful and have sold almost all of my decorations through them!

2. Think outside the box. Try to design centerpieces that will put money back in your pocket after the wedding is over OR create them as gifts for your guests.

3. DIY. Design your own tags, reserved seating signs, place cards, etc. It will save you so much money. It’s also a great excuse to have friends and family over to socialize and help with the process.

4. Communicate with your vendors and make sure they truly understand what you are looking for and are willing to work with you and your budget.

5. Don’t feel cornered by all the “wedding etiquette” rules. Be brave and be non-traditional.

I chose Maya Couture because of the variety of dress selections. My sales assistant, Misty, took the time to really help me find my style. I could not have been happier with my dress.

Jennifer wore Maggie Sottero's "Annalise" and Nick wore the Alfresco suit by Jim's Formalwear. Jennifer is a local photographer with "Shine with Jennifer Leigh" at www.shinewithjl.com.

"My Maya Couture Experience" Advice From a Bride: Kim Parham Grubb

2011-06-16T08:49:00.000-07:00

Every woman dreams of her wedding day and finding that perfect dress. It is one of the most important aspects for the bride when planning her wedding. I too envisioned finding the perfect wedding dress for the perfect wedding day. To complete this important objective, I visited the premier bridal studio in Hampton Roads, Maya Couture, to find the dress I had always dreamed about. When entering the beautiful showroom, I was overwhelmed by the countless and amazing bridal gowns to choose from. The consultant really took the time to find out exactly what type of gown I was looking for down to even the smallest detail. After trying on a variety of gowns, I found the wedding gown that was made for me. The gown was an ivory and satin, A-line dress dazzled with crystal accents on the straps, a creation by designer Jim Hjelm. The theme of the wedding was simple elegance and this dress encompassed that vision. Maya Couture features other services for all your wedding planning needs. In addition to finding my wedding gown, I was also able to get all of my bridesmaids dresses, save the date cards, programs, reception menus and invitations. It is one stop shopping at its best! Maya Couture’s commitment to making each bride, like myself, feel special made my wedding planning experience memorable and truly enjoyable! I would like to give a special thanks to the staff at Maya Couture and Maya for helping in making my wedding day so special.

As the store owner, there is nothing more rewarding then hearing stories like Kim's. At the end of the day, what we want for our brides is for their visions to become a reality, and for our "One Stop Shop" to help them achieve that seamlessly. Kim was nothing short of gorgeous on her wedding day, and it's testimonials like these that make our job as rewarding as it is!

Have a story for Maya and the girls at Maya Couture? E-mail us at maya@mayacouture.com with photos and testimonials!

The Beauty of a Quirky Winter Wedding & The Ideal Bridal Consultants!

2011-06-14T12:42:00.000-07:00

Even though we live in Hampton Roads, where in January it can be 10 degrees or 75 degrees, brides planning winter weddings still grace Maya Couture to find their dream dress. Megan Taylor was one of those brides. She came in the store and worked with Hannah and Misty to search for her perfect New Years Day wedding dress last August. Because of time constraints and being an out-of-town bride, she bought a beautiful sample gown that we'd just gotten in. She was all about the atmosphere of the event, and with snow on the ground and her girls in red, the scenery was gorgeous for their wedding day. See her photos below, with a review that she wrote later:

I just wanted to send out a special Thank You to you and your staff...especially Hannah and Misty. I was in the shop last August, and ended up purchasing a sample dress on a whim. It was the PERFECT dress for my slightly unconventional wedding. Our wedding was held in Vermont on New Year\s Day (1.1.11). We were married by our good friend who was ordained online, we had a flowerboy, groomsmaids, and the actually ceremony was in pub.

Again, please thank Misty and Hannah for their help. And let Misty know that we ended up with a Dave Matthews song.

Cheers!

One of the great things about being a bridal consultant is being able to help with all aspects of a bride's wedding. We can help you visualize the full outfit, and each consultant has "specialties" in different areas. Misty and Tyler are our more alternative consultants with tattoos and indie music tastes. Felicia and Patsy give great perspectives as former mothers of brides and grooms while still being in touch with what's current today. Melinda is from Australia, and is getting married this weekend, so knows what it's like to be in that very moment! Sarah is our resident fashionista, who also works at a modeling agency on the side. Laura and Anzen see things from a design perspective- Anzen is our in-house designer with a degree from VCU, and Laura is new on board with a fashion degree from Virginia Tech. Courtney is the ultimate "girl next door". No matter what, you're guaranteed to find the perfect consultant to help you plan your dream wedding- whether it be a quirky Vermont winter wedding at a pub or a traditional wedding in a cathedral!

Maya Couture Selected as a Top 50 Best Wedding Salon Nationwide

2011-04-26T09:10:00.000-07:00

Maya Couture was honored to learn we were voted as one of the "50 Best Independent Wedding Salons" in the April 2011 Issue of BRIDES Magazine. We were chosen by real brides and industry experts across the country based on product selection, service, price, ambiance, and more!! BRIDES Magazine is the number one bridal magazine in the world, so this is quite a feather in our cap!

Big Trunk Show Weekend - Gifts and Goodies for You and Your Bridal Party

2011-04-13T17:21:00.000-07:00

I had to Blog about the weekend of events we're having beginning tomorrow (April 14th) because we have something for everyone!! For brides who are still searching for the perfect gown you need to come see the new Pronovias bridal collection. I think it goes without saying that Pronovias offers some of the most stunning and unique bridal gowns you will ever see. Incredible fit, great fabrics, and intricate details make this line our best selling collection. Our brides just can't get enough of these gorgeous gowns. Here are two I love.

If it's bridesmaid dresses you're seeking, look no further. We picked up the Belsoie and B2 lines last season and they are quickly becoming our #1 requested line for the bridal party. With the flexibility to change fabrics, and lengths (knee, tea, and floor lengths), plus loads of colors to choose from, it's impossible not to find the perfect dress for your bridal party that's affordable and stylish.

We can't forget about accessories. Searching for the perfect statement piece to wear with your gown, or a whimsical piece to accessorize your bridal party? And, speaking of the bridal party, what are you going to get them for attendant gifts? I have the solution for all of the above, and it's a HUGE bridal trend right now - bold, chunky,colorful bobbles for everyone. Stella & Dot has the perfect jewels for every bride and her maids. You can come in and try on these goodies all weekend long or view the selections and purchase online. Want a unique way to kick-off a bridal shower or bachelorette party? Host an in-house trunk show with our jewelry guru and stylist Tammy Medalis. http://www.stelladot.com/sites/tamtan

Here are some of the hottest items in the new collection - available for preview and purchase at Maya Couture through Sunday April 17th.

To pull all the pieces of your wedding looks together this is the time to visit Maya Couture. Enjoy goodies, prizes, and perks all weekend long!! Call 757-461-1690 to book your appointment today!

Today's Bridal Statistics & Trends

2011-03-24T08:04:00.000-07:00

One of the most exciting aspects of the bridal industry for me is following the trends and watching the state of the industry grow and change. In order to be successful we have to know who our customer is; intimately! Our goal is to learn as much about the trends and our clients so we can fulfill their needs and exceed expectations.

I recently read an article on who today's bride is and wanted to share it with you. See how you stack up to the rest of the couples in the country who are in the process of planning a wedding. These are just some fun facts and observations for you to enjoy. The sources of these findings will be listed at the end of this post.

First and foremost the age of the first-time bride and groom is getting older. The average age for first-time brides is 27.6, and 29.5 for grooms. This age has steadily increased over the last three decades. Many couples live together before saying "I do" and are more focused on career development, therefore putting off the walk down the aisle. furthermore, many couples today are paying for part or all of the wedding expenses.

Today's couples are no-nonsense and know what they want. The bride is a fashion-savvy, do-it-yourself'er who values a full-service store with experts who will make her experience pleasurable, personal and convenient. That's good news for us since we are a full-service, one-stop-shop!!

Less formal and more personal, unique affairs that celebrate the individual is the most popular approach to planning these days. More than 29% of couples incorporate a wedding logo or monogram into their wedding day details. Only 20% of the weddings in 2009 were classified as "formal/black tie". The average wedding has 149 guests, and is a three day celebration comprised of the rehearsal dinner, wedding and reception, and post-wedding brunch.

Planning a wedding takes time! The average length of engagements is 14 months. The most popular month to get engaged is December with 16% of all proposals taking place at the end of the year. June remains the most popular month to get married with 17% of all ceremonies taking place. It's followed by August, September, and October.

82% of couples set a wedding budget, with the average costing about $28,082, and the bulk of the budget going towards the venue. 81% of couples will enjoy a honeymoon for an average of 7.6 days and the cost of 3,473.00.

What are today's bridal wear trends?

Two trends I've touched on before seem to still be growing stronger and stronger. The first is floral embellishments. Bold and structured or soft and sweet, flowers are everywhere! They really ooze of romance. You just can't go wrong in my eyes!

The next trend definitely speaks to individuality, and that is the "little short wedding gown". Changing dresses or having a convertible dress (changing necklines, shoulder straps, or hem lengths) is really big right now. The dress in the picture below is one of my favorites and we can't keep this gown in stock it's so popular!

Hints of bold black are really popular today. Whether in headpieces, shoes, or sashes, this small accent makes a huge statement and offers a unique flair!

This is one of our brides photographed by Twilight Images by Melody Smith

The color of the moment is grey. I know it sounds blahhhh, but when you pair it with almost any shade of yellow,purple,or orange or with antique white the palette is so striking. See how one of our bridal parties wore it below.

This photo was provided by Keith Cephus Photography.

Grey is so big right now we actually have a new, tailored grey tuxedo for rental. It's darker than the heather grey, but not quite black. The color is rich and modern...this tuxedo is sharp!

Today tuxedo rentals can have that tailored custom look! A very hot look for the guys is the introduction of the flat-front tuxedo pant. Available in black and white, these pants enhance the overall look and feel of today's hottest tuxedo styles. These are great for the metro-sexual, or fashion forward man who desires clean lines and an impeccable fit.

This is a very exciting time for couples who are planning a wedding. Based on the statistics you have more resources at your disposal, you have more control over the planning and details to make sure it has your personal stamp on the biggest celebration of your life, and the trends today are all about making sure your individuality and the the elements that make your union special can be celebrated however you see fit!

Happy Planning!
-Maya

Resources: Vows: The Bridal & Wedding Business Journal, The Knot's 2009 Real Weddings Survey, Conde' Nast's American Wedding Study 2009

The New Look of Maya Couture

2011-02-12T04:52:00.000-08:00

I'm so happy to announce that Maya Couture has a new look! As we continue to build our brand and grow as a company we strive to evolve and become more visible and accessible to our clients. I'm so proud of our new image and hope you like our new look too!

I have to extend a huge thanks to my dear friend and graphic designer Katie Bundy. Her ability to clearly understand our vision and mission is truly a gift. Her talent and aesthetic blew me away. I know you'll see why when you visit our new site. She was patient, and clearly communicated to me what she needed to make our new look possible. It was the perfect collaboration. Thank you Katie!! You can find her contact information at the bottom of this post.

The first step was to create a new logo. After numerous edits and tweaks I fell in love with this one. The MC watermark I feel emphasizes our brand and combined with the two different fonts in the store name and bridal salon is modern yet timeless and is still feminine. Here's the new Maya Couture logo...

We've also freshened up our advertisements. You will find our new ads in VOW Bride and Hampton Roads Wedding Guide. I think the image supports our goal to provide our brides the best selection and gowns that grace the pages of the most popular bridal magazines and runways of today's leading wedding designers. More importantly it reinforces our commitment to you by offering the services and products to bring the wedding of your dreams to life!

But I have to say the grand finale is our new website! Our goal was to present our visitors with a site that showcases our one-stop-shopping concept, oozes of wedding details, and is romantic, but that is also functional and informative. Our new site is also a celebration and testament to the growth of our brand, our reputation, and the mark we've made and continue to make in the bridal industry! I hope you enjoy visiting our new site, and that you find the content helpful and will encourage you to visit us!

For the new site click on the link - www.mayacouture.com

If you're ready for a new look you can contact Katie:

Katie Bundy
Twelve 24 Design, LLC
757- 343-9145
kb@twelve24design.com
www.twelve24design.com

Meet Designer Matthew Christopher

2011-02-09T13:27:00.000-08:00

Brides of Hampton Roads, are you seeking a fresh new look for your bridal gown that's glamorous, fashion forward, yet sophisticated and offers some of the most exquisite details in bridal designs today? If so, a Matthew Christopher gown may be waiting for you!

We are so happy to introduce Matthew Christopher and his stunning silhouettes to you during an exclusive trunk show of his collection!

You can see his designs on the runway at the VOW Bridal Event Sunday, February 20th at the Virginia Beach Convention Center. Doors open at 11:30AM.

On Monday February 21st you can meet the designer and try on his gowns during an exclusive showing of his collection at our store! Doors will open at 9:00AM. Call 757-461-1690 to schedule your appointment with Matthew Christopher.

We look forward to welcoming Matthew to Hampton Roads and introducing him to our lovely brides!

Maya Couture Named Bride's Choice 2011

2011-02-08T19:11:00.000-08:00

We are happy to announce we won the WeddingWire Brides Choice Award for 2011!This award recognizes the top 5 percent of local wedding professionals from the WeddingWire Network who demonstrate quality and service excellence in the wedding industry. Thank you to our brides for making this award possible and to our friends in the industry who are also a "Brides Choice" in 2011!!

To find Maya Couture on WeddingWire visit:

http://www.weddingwire.com/reviews/maya-couture-norfolk/8099bc86dadeedf3.html

Get "The Dish" on Everything Weddings!!

2011-01-12T10:19:00.000-08:00

Are you newly engaged and have no idea where or how to begin planning the biggest day of your life, or are you in the throws of planning and are overwhelmed by all the details? Do you have most of your planning wrapped up and just need a few key vendors like a hair and make-up stylist? If you fit into any of these categories then I have the answer for you!

My dear friend and wedding planner extraordinaire, Jennifer Lalonde, recently launched "The Bridal Dish" catered to the DIY bride that is in desperate need of direction and assistance with her wedding planning and design needs. The Bridal Dish studio is housed in the offices of Jennifer Lalonde Events and is the "hub" for everything weddings!!

Make an appointment to get "the dish" and to browse the planning studio and all its' resources. The studio boasts an array of magazines, books, and resource guides to help direct and inspire you. Additionally, there are marketing materials and contact information for preferred vendors of The Bridal Dish. so, whether you're at square one or just need one or two more vendors The Bridal Dish can put you on the right path, matching you with professionals in your price point and best suited to bring your inspirations to life.

As you're doing your research you realize you need more support The Bridal Dish offers several different levels of membership to suit your needs and your budget! For more information on the membership tiers simply click on any of The Bridal Dish links, or schedule your consultation today:

The Bridal Dish
757-689-8082
508 N. Birdneck Road
Suite G
Virginia Beach, VA 23451

Happy Planning!!

Photos of The Bridal Dish captured by Katherine Blevins

Trend Alert: Flower Power

2010-12-30T13:49:00.000-08:00

Our 2011 collections have been steadily streaming in for about a month now, and one of the trends I'm most excited about is the presence of floral details. Flowers are everywhere! You will see them as bold, singular statement pieces on the waistline or neckline of a simple silhouette, to floral fabrics and patterns that cascade through an entire flouncy, romantic style. For the modern bride look for flowers that are bold and three-dimensional with loads of structure, so they pop off the gown and come to life. There is no shortage of this look in the 2011 season. Flowers worn in the hair are more popular than ever. A single flower to accent a soft chignon, or an updated take on a vintage look with feathers and crystals complimented by a birdcage veil are sure to be the most popular looks. Let's not forget the bridal party either. Bridesmaids dresses of all lengths, fabrics, and colors will offer the floral accent. Flowers are feminine, romantic, soft, and are an expression of love and adoration - perfect for bridal wear! This season don't hold back...your floral desires will take you far beyond your bouquet!!

A Bride's Story...In Her Own Words

2010-11-04T14:21:00.000-07:00

Bakari and I have known each other since high school but it wasn't until last year that we became a couple. We have been best friends since 9th grade and our parents still live in the same neighborhood! We have a beautiful 11 month old daughter that was one of our flower girls. You may have seen her crawling over the back fitting room floor!

Our experience with Maya Couture was wonderful. I am not the kind of girl that has to try on a million dresses. I did my research online and found a designer that I loved. I went on the Essense of Australia website and found a dress I had to have. It was #D985. I just knew this was the one! I went to the store just to see it in person. When I walked into the store, everyone was super nice and helpful. I was 8 1/2 months pregnant so I didn't want to try it on. One of the young ladies said "oh come on, try it." I did and I LOVED it!! I didn't make a final decision that day but I promised I would be back.

After I had the baby in Dec 2009, I returned in January. I met with a lovely sales rep named Ashley. She was wonderful. She made sure that we were comfortable even with a newborn around. I told her what dress I wanted and she brought it out along with another one by the same designer #D963. Suddenly I found myself in love with two dresses!! I couldn't make a decision but she was patient with me as I tried on both dresses a few times. Even though she had to lace and unlace each one, she never complained. Then I realized I needed to see both dresses on at the same time. She looked confused but I wasn't going to have her put it on…, I had my mother put one on! We both stood in the mirror and the decision was made. D963 won!! While in the store, I found a gray fabric sash that I was allowed to purchase. At the reception, I put the fabric around my waste and put the jeweled band on top of that. It gave the dress a whole different look. I also had the seamstress add a halter strap which was good for a busty woman like myself.

Since the wedding I have started a wedding and event planning business and I will be recommending Maya Couture to all of my brides.

Our Wedding:

We were married at the Historic Chamberlin Hotel in Hampton Virginia on Sept 4, 2010.

We had an evening wedding that started at 7 pm. My dress was a Pearl color and it shimmered as the sun went down behind the gazebo! Our wedding was photographed by Jason Jarvis of Jason Jarvis Photography. He was the best. He stayed from morning until the last person left. And his prices can't be beat!

Well I think that's about everything. Thanks Again the Maya Couture staff for their professionalism and dedication to their brides!! Keep up the good work ladies.

Sincerely,

Tamika Rice-Haley

Military brides can get free wedding gowns | HamptonRoads.com | PilotOnline.com#rfq#rfq#rfq

2010-10-21T09:41:00.000-07:00

Military brides can get free wedding gowns HamptonRoads.com PilotOnline.com#rfq#rfq#rfq

Real Wedding: Ashley and Charlie - September 18th

2010-10-15T10:06:00.000-07:00

Our lovely couple Ashley and Charlie kicked off the Fall wedding season with an outdoor wedding on September 18th at Amber Grove in Midlothian, VA. The color contrast of chocolate brown and sunshine yellow complimented the time of year and wedding location perfectly!

Ashley's gown was style #8357 by Davinci Bridal. The soft ivory gown evoked a vintage flair with a lace overlay and beaded embellishments enhanced the romance of this gown. A satin band and handmade flower created a sweet empire accent. For the bridesmaids Ashley chose a short and sassy strapless A-line chocolate brown taffeta dress by Impression Bridal (style 1667). To stay with the chocolate brown color scheme the groom and his party wore the Jean Yves Chocolate Brown Parisian tuxedo by Jim's Formalwear for Maya Couture.

The wedding flowers were by Vogue Flowers in Richmond. Ashley and Charlie's wedding day memories were captured by photographer Terry Payne and Videographer Trevor Hager.

Congratulations Ashley and Charlie! It was a pleasure helping you with your entire wedding party attire!!

Alterations 101: Ensure the Perfect Fit

2010-10-06T09:22:00.000-07:00

There are two very important aspects to the perfect wedding gown. The first is finding your dream gown. The second is altering the gown to fit you perfectly! Unless you actually had your gown custom-made, then most brides can expect to have a series of alterations done on her gown to achieve the perfect fit.

One of the most important things to understand is that altering a bridal gown or formal dress is an art form, and not all tailors have the expertise to properly adjust these garments. Just because they can hem hundreds of pants, does not qualify them to work on formal wear. It's apples and oranges! You can also expect to pay more for bridal gown and formal wear alterations than on everyday street clothes.

We have two full-time seamstresses who combined have over 45 years experience specializing in wedding gown and formal wear alterations. We will alter gowns that were not purchased at our store as well. So if you're in need of a reputable and talented tailor please contact us (757-461-6004). If you are not local but want to make sure you find a tailor who is qualified we recommend calling your local bridal stores to see if they will do alterations on outside merchandise or call a fabric store or friend who may be able to offer a referral. Your local dry cleaner may also have someone they can recommend. No matter what, do your homework. Make sure the seamstress you meet with has plenty of years altering wedding gowns, and that they work for a reputable company.

Here are some other tips to ensure your alterations process is stress-free and the look and fit you desire is achieved:

1. The standard turn-around time on wedding gown alterations is 6-8 weeks; bridesmaids is about 2 weeks. But this can vary. If you plan on having a bridal portrait prior to your wedding and/or you will be having any custom work done to your gown or your bridal party dresses (ie. changing the neckline or adding sleeves etc.) you may want to give yourself a couple more weeks. You should build this time into when you want to order your gown. Delivery on a wedding gown can run anywhere from 4-8 months. This is why it's so common for a bride to purchase her gown a year or more in advance of her wedding date.

2. When you receive your gown you may make a fitting appointment then or wait until you are ready (if time allows). If your weight does not fluctuate you can schedule your first fitting well in advance of your wedding date. If you are planning to lose a significant amount of weight (over five pounds) or are known to fluctuate in weight, we recommend you not start your fittings until your weight has become more stable. If you have a question about when to start fittings, ask your seamstress what she recommends.

3. I get asked all the time "how much will my alterations cost". We don't have a crystal ball and what you can expect to spend cannot firmly be determined when you buy your gown or bridesmaid dresses. I can tell you alterations are almost always needed unless you are 5'10" tall and have perfect proportions. The work that will need to be done and the fees incurred are based on a woman's proportions along with the style and complexity of the dress, and how well it was made. General rule though is, the more proportionate a woman is the less alterations and fees she will have. A woman who is more disproportionate will most likely need more work and her fees may be higher, but the dress itself is a huge factor as well. We do have an itemized price list readily available so you can get a "ball park figure".

4. Your undergarments and foundations are vital to the perfect fit. Time and time again we have clients in the wrong bra, or no bra at all and that compromises the overall fit. We sell seamless long-line bras, bra cups, and silicone bra cups. Our seamstresses can advise you on the best fit. I also recommend going to a bra fitting salon in your market - especially if you have a full bust-line and/or the back of your gown requires a special undergarment. Locally, we send our clients to the Full Cup. 1860 Laskin Road #121 Virginia Beach, VA (757)226-9441. If you are wearing a ball gown you may need an additional petticoat. Ask your seamstress her advice on additional petticoats, spanx, or other body shapers. If you do wear these, then you need to make sure you have them at every fitting. Bring your shoes to all fittings as well.

5. Make and appointment. Know when the alterations hours are and make time to build your alterations appointments into your "time-off-requests" at your job. Your alterations appointments are just as important as the appointments you would make to go to the Doctor or the Dentist. Most bridal gown fittings are made by appointment so the seamstress may give you her full attention at each fitting. It is important to arrive on time for your appointment so that the seamstress has enough time to service you properly. It’s courteous to provide 24 hours notice if you wish to cancel or reschedule a fitting.

6. Alterations are a process that takes place over several visits - on average three. The first fitting is very important, as this is when the fit of the dress is first customized to you. During the subsequent fittings the fit and accessories are fine-tuned. Fittings are a subjective process. Do not hesitate to tell the people assisting you in your fittings if you are unsure or unhappy about something. They are there to help you. Try to relax and enjoy the process!

Rachel & Bryan - Botanical Gardens

2010-09-10T12:41:00.001-07:00

I have to give Rachel and Bryan so much credit (besides what a beautiful couple they are!). This lovely couple got married on one of the hottest summer days we had all year - outside - at the Norfolk Botanical Gardens. But the heat couldn't compare to how "hot" they looked! Rachel's wedding gown was "Arden" by Maggie Sottero. This lightweight sumptuous silk gown was romantic with a soft sweetheart neckline, A-line silhouette, and embellished with lace and a scalloped lace hem. It was timeless and breathtaking!

For her bridesmaids Rachel chose style #8001 by designer D'Zage. The full length dresses were in a rich scarlet color. A style for almost any body shape, the satin strapless dress with an empire waist and asymmetrical pleats throughout the bodice, also had a slight back train, adding flair and formality.

The groom and his groomsmen wore crisp white, classic cut 2-button tuxedos to compliment Rachel's classic white wedding gown. Picture perfect! To see these tuxedos or other options for your bridal party visit our store or go to our suppliers website - Jim's formalwear.

Rachel and Bryan's wedding memories were photographed by Keith Cephus Photography.

Fit for the Wedding...Fit for Life!

2010-08-16T09:03:00.000-07:00

OK, as a woman I can say this. We are just too hard on ourselves; particularly when it comes to our body image and weight. These issues we grapple with are amplified and even more scrutinized when the ring is slipped on the finger and the wedding planning kicks-off. I witness women on a daily basis picking themselves apart behind the dressing room curtain, and inevitably almost every bride I've ever worked with pronounces the statement "I PLAN ON LOSING 15 POUNDS BEFORE THE WEDDING". It doesn't matter age, height, weight, shape, hair color, skin color - that one sentence reverberates off our dressing room walls into thin air all day long.

The challenge is most of us don't know how to get in the best shape for the big day in a manner that is healthy, realistic, and sustainable after the last wedding dance. In addition, the stress of planning a wedding can throw a curve ball into your regimen and how your body responds to stress. If you are bride whose experiencing this right now, we have the solution!

WeddingFit - Presented by Lacey Lee Fitness

Sunday, August 22nd, 4-5pm @ Maya Couture
$15 per person (cash or check only)
Come learn how YOU can look your best for your big day. Planning a wedding is stressful enough so let Lacey educate and show you how to implement realistic, long term lifestyle changes. She will tell you the truth, dispel myths, and provide you with the essential tools you will need to not only look your best for your wedding day but for a lifetime.

Bring you fiance, wedding party and/or friends. More the merrier!! Receive 1FREE personal training session with Lacey. Value $50.00!

Questions or to register email Lacey at laceyleefitness@gmail.com. Lacey is a certified personal trainer and nutritional consultant. She has over 10 years experience, with a focus on bootcamp style fitness classes and a training approach that is a fusion of cardiovascular and strength training exercises. No two workouts will ever be the same, with maximum results. Lacey Lee Fitness offers: at-home personal training, group training and nutritional counseling. All services are 100% customized to YOU, your current fitness levels and your personal fitness goals.

Three Maya Couture Brides - One Talented Photographer

2010-08-13T12:28:00.000-07:00

When brides ask my opinion on what wedding details are the most important, a great photographer is always at the top of my list. Just think, you spend an average of 16 months planning the biggest day of your life. Don't you want all the fruits of your labor, and the day you've dreamed of all your life, captured in the best, most personal and creative way possible? Don't you want a photographer who can bring to life the emotion of the moment, and with their keen eye use lighting and personal aesthetic to present a finished product that's a reflection of your taste and transports you back into that moment? Many of our brides have found just that in photographer Justin Hankins.

I had the pleasure to peruse many of Justin's wedding photos and found that we shared lots of brides. So I asked him, "What draws so many brides to Justin Hankins Photography?" His response was truly original and reflects the passion he has for what he does and for the couples he works with:

“I shoot a hybrid style of fashion and photojournalism, which translates into beautiful, magazine-quality images that look natural and unrehearsed. After all, a couple's wedding day is perfect already, and documenting these authentic moments is absolutely critical to me. In order to create such timeless memories, I've built my business around providing each couple with the best customer experience they've ever received. The relationships I grow through my sensitivity to each couple's needs plays a vital role in helping me create photographs that honor the significance of their special day. It's a distinct privilege to be part of such an important moment in the history of a family, and I want each couple to walk away knowing their wedding meant the world to me.”

Thank you Justin for translating the true beauty of our brides in your photographs! I look forward to many more Maya Couture/Justin Hankins brides! Visit http://www.justinhankins.com/ to see more amazing wedding photos.

The Pampered Bride!

2010-07-31T10:59:00.000-07:00

Why wait until the honeymoon to indulge yourself! As I’ve written over and over again, planning a wedding can be stressful! Every bride should take a pause from planning and rejuvenate her spirit, her senses and overall beauty.

One of the perfect ways of doing this is a day at the spa. Whether you want a peaceful day alone or a sensual experience with your significant other or a way of saying “thank you” to your bridesmaids, the day spa experience is a fun and special occasion to incorporate into the wedding details.

As someone who is in the throws of all the stress with you, I too find time to indulge, so I can be the best service provider to you! I’ve spent my fair share at spas over the years and have mingled with the professionals running some of our most successful spas - dedicated to pampering the bride, groom and all their attendants. Below are some of my favorite – who have the capacity and “private functionality” to accommodate an entire party. Additionally, these spas offer incredible packages and services that cater to the bride and her attendants. The ambiance, décor, and flow each offer are unique and an integral aspect of the relaxation and rejuvenation that will fill your spirit during your treatments. So I say, go pamper yourself…

Natural Elements Spa & Salon *(Interior Photos are the inside of Natural Elements)
717 Eden Way North Suite 612, Chesapeake
757-436-1141
www.Natural-ElementsSpa.com
From Natural Elements – “Unmatched in Quality Service, Beautiful Ambiance and Voted “Best of Chesapeake” for 6 years! With a talented and professional staff offering exceptional beauty and relaxation services, providing hair, makeup, nails, skin and massage services for bridal and bachelorette parties. Wedding Day Services both in-spa and on site are available.”
Changes City Spa
222 West 21st St., Norfolk
(757)625-5300
www.changesaregood.com
From Changes – “There are SO MANY details to take care of – flowers, dress, church, invitations, music, sign-in book, matching shoes... All those things are important, but the bottom line is this: On your big day, there is one thing that will get the most attention –YOU! Don’t take any chances – let our professionals take care of your total look. Call our wedding consultant for an appointment to find out more details on what we have to offer. Special packages are available for our brides and bridal parties, based on the services you choose.”
Metamorphosis Salon & Day Spa
624 Independence Blvd., Virginia Beach
(757)497-6382
www.metasalonandspa.com
From Metamorphosis - Owners Beth Volz and Molly Zemke have known each other for many years. They met each other while working together, Beth as a stylist and Molly as an aesthetician. They shared a common vision of what would make a beautiful, well run, efficient and friendly salon and spa. After four years of working together, they broke out on their own with the goals of giving Virginia Beach and surrounding areas the quality service that they have been waiting for. Beth and Molly strive for a family feel to their salon and spa and welcome you to a calming and revitalizing experience.
Aqua Essence Day Spa
1174 Duck Rd., Duck, NC
252-261-9709
www.aquaobx.com
From Aqua Essence – “Our mission at Aqua Essence Day Spa is to make you feel the best you ever have. We offer a wide variety of services with the hopes that you will have the ultimate spa experience. The love for our work is evident in our effort to provide the quintessential spa experience for each and every client.”

5 Tips for Stress Free Shopping to find the Perfect Gown!!

2010-07-26T12:13:00.000-07:00

The path to finding your dream wedding gown is so exciting! However, this very important purchase can be a bit daunting. Since we were young girls the dreams of gown shopping, standing on the pedestal and twirling in a wedding gown began, and lasts until that real experience presents itself. So the anticipation and "hype" of this moment is bigger than most can imagine. To ensure that it's all you've dreamed of I have 5 tips sure to help any bride about to embark on this milestone!

1. It's something you've dreamed for a lifetime, so begin shopping early. It generally takes 6-8 months for a designer bridal gown to deliver once it's been purchased, and then you can expect 2+ alteration appointments spanning 6-8 weeks. If time is not on your side we can certainly accommodate you with our endless stock piece options or by ordering your gown on a rush. However, you can never buy your gown too early. Doing so will serve you well, save you money and minimize your stress!! So many of the other decisions you make with regards to your wedding will depend on the gown you choose. So once you can make this decision, the rest of the pieces will fall into place!

2. Keep an open mind! Most of our brides end up purchasing a gown they would have never picked for themselves (this is what makes our assistance so worth it!). The mystique of the wedding gown is that it's like no other garment you will ever wear again! Finding "the one" evokes a feeling and emotion you will never get from a pair of jeans! And, don't dismiss the veil! The impact this sheer, feminine, and sacred "ritual accessory" offers, is what makes a bride, A BRIDE! So many of our brides will adorn a cathedral length veil, when their first intention was not to wear one at all! You will pleasantly surprise yourself if you keep your options open!

3. Make an appointment. To ensure you have the expertise and guidance of one of our highly knowledgeable consultants then you should make an appointment. I think many brides are surprised at how overwhelmed they feel when they start perusing the racks with hundreds of gowns calling to them. Having a consultant to help you weed through the options, dress and accessorize you, and answer all your questions makes the process that much more fun for you! Your consultant should be your expert, confidant and touchstone throughout your planning process.

4. Be very selective choosing your "entourage". Only bring the person or few persons that have your best interest at heart and can provide you sound advice and feedback based on YOUR taste, style, and budget. You need to be surrounded by those people whose opinions you value most and who will help you make the best decision for YOU! Too many conflicting opinions will only confuse and discourage you - and it makes our job, and the relationship we want to start with you that much harder.

5. Embrace value over price, and understand the difference. A few dollars savings may not be worth it - and most times it's not. In bridal you truly get what you pay for. I can't tell you how many horror stories I've heard, and how many times we've come to the rescue of brides who have "cut corners" just to save a few pennies! Our philosophy is the real service begins after you've purchased the gown. We are committed to our brides from the moment they walk into our store until the moment they walk down the aisle. Understand that planning is a process and hiccups arrive, sometimes on our end, sometimes by a member of the bridal party, sometimes by the designer, but we do whatever we have to do to make sure our brides and grooms and their attendants are happy and well taken care of, and that they do get the wedding they've always dreamed of!! Therein lies the value!

Summer Love: Debbie & Evan June 19th

2010-07-10T13:39:00.000-07:00

One of the many joys of working with brides is the special friendship that's established between the bride, her family and the staff at our salon. But it's even a bit sweeter when we have the opportunity to help a family who are already so special to us! This was the case with Debbie and Evan. Debbie's mother Cora was the seamstress for Tiffany's Bridal for about 20 years, and then I had the good fortune of "inheriting" her for another 4 years before she retired a couple of years ago. So needless to say we had so much fun helping Debbie and Evan coordinate the elements of their special day.

Debbie picked one of my favorite gowns as her wedding gown. "Lasarte" by La Sposa is a fit and flare silhouette with a fully ruched bodice. The soft sweetheart neckline presents delicate swarovski beading and three-dimensional baby rosettes. This detail is emulated in soft patterns throughout the cascading sash on the left hand side of the skirt and the train. This gown is romantic with loads of texture and crisp details that don't overpower the silhouette or the bride. It's a stunner!

To compliment her look Debbie chose a ruched v-neck chiffon slim A-line dress in scarlet for her bridesmaids. This neckline is appealing on all women and the dress as a whole works on any shape from size 0-30! The style (8965) was created by Me Too Bridesmaids for Moonlight Bridal.

The groom and his party selected a classic yet sleek rental by Calvin Klein for Jim's formalwear.

The wedding flowers were designed by Char's Floral Designs.

Debbie and Evan's wedding memories were captured by Keith Cephus Photography

Both Char and Keith's businesses are located inside Maya Couture. To learn more about our one-stop-shopping services visit our Facebook Page One Stop Wedding Shop

Pamela Cruz: Casual Elegance

2010-06-21T14:12:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of helping our beautiful bride Pamela Cruz select her perfect wedding gown. Her choice, style 6074 by Impression Bridal was the perfect design to compliment her petite frame and her desire to wear a classic yet simple silhouette. The v-neckline adds length to her stature and is visually slimming. The gown has timeless details with an all-over Alencon Lace overlay, duchess ribbon in ice blue under the empire waist, and button details along the zipper, and a scalloped hemline. This slim A-line with its' soft details was perfect for Pamela's garden wedding at the Norfolk Botanical Gardens. Pamela's wedding memories were captured by Keith Cephus Photography.

One Great Bride, Two Amazing Bridal Gowns!

2010-06-09T06:08:00.001-07:00

We recently had the pleasure of working with a bride whose vision allowed us to expand our creativity and provide products and services that extend beyond the typical "cookie-cutter" realm that most bridal salons provide. When Natalie Driver came to us she had a clear vision of the look and feel she wanted to exude on her wedding day. Natalie had the great fortune to indulge in one of today's hottest trends of wearing two wedding gowns; a more formal one for the ceremony and a casually elegant one for her reception.

The formal gown she found among our stock of designer bridal gowns. Her pick was a fitted corset style gown by Maggie Sottero . The silk taffeta gown presented a fully ruched and fitted bodice and torso with a slim A-line skirt and cascading ruffle. The scoop strapless neckline was embellished with beautiful crystal and lace accents, and was repeated on the hip for a more pronounced look.

For her reception gown she enlisted us to create a custom bridal gown. Her inspiration was a red carpet gown worn by Kate Hudson during awards season. Eliminating the jewels that adorned Kate's dress we created a bias cut matte Jersey gown that wowed with a plunging backless feature and asymmetrical details. The gown was the epitome of minimal, modern elegance! We also had the pleasure of designing and making Natalie's Mother's dress! Natalie describes her experience as "truly a blessing" and that she was 2,000% happy with Maya Couture!

Her wedding captured modern sophistication, and was emphasized by her bridal party gowns. For her bridesmaids Natalie chose a long flowing chiffon gown in bold black that adorned a trend-setting floral one-shoulder accent by designer Bari Jay .

Natalie it was such a pleasure working with you and your family and friends. We wish you all the best in the future, and don't be a stranger!

Natalie's wedding day memories were captured by Keith Cephus Photography

Recognition

2010-05-25T13:04:00.000-07:00

Weddings are beautiful and momentous. Gowns are breathtaking. The energy and emotion that goes into planning one of life's biggest affairs is infectious! Every wedding is different with so many unique and personal touches. The level of attention we give and pressure those of us who gleefully choose to be in the wedding industry feel, eclipse's all of these things. This is a career in which to be successful you need to be 100% selfless and 110% passionate about each and every client! The reward is knowing you've had a hand in making dreams come true. This is what sustains us!

We are so focused on our clients and their needs we often go unrecognized (and that's OK, because this is our job). But while we toil away it is nice to be reminded and recognized for the hard work we do, the businesses we manage and grow, and for the unparalleled services and products we offer. This has been a year of recognition for Maya Couture. We are 5 years young and have steadily grown each year. We've done this by committing ourselves to our clients through their entire planning process, by making sound business decisions, and by offering a convenient, exceptional, and inviting place of business that is not like any other bridal retailer in the market. These awards confirm that we are moving in the right direction and it's just the beginning of more exciting things to come for you, our clients and friends of Maya Couture! We thank you for all of your support!

About Face - Beauty Conversation with Kim Wadsworth

2010-05-19T11:59:00.000-07:00

One of our goals when we are helping our brides find their dream gown is to create an experience for her that enables her to visualize and embrace what her overall wedding day look will be. Our mission is to do more than just sell a gown it is to ensure each bride lives out her total wedding day dream look! The beauty elements that create the brides wedding day look and feel are many. The one that I think is just as important as the gown is the brides makeup. Other than her gown the focal point of all brides will be her face. Her groom and guests will be taken by her beauty and her emotion.

I sat down with friend and professional makeup artist Kim Wadsworth, of Wadsworth Style and BridesMade (http://www.kimwadsworth.com/) to discuss the importance of wedding day makeup and the benefits of hiring a professional makeup artist. Here is her expert advice for you:

BEAUTY CONVERSATION WITH KIM WADSWORTH

Q: What are the benefits of hiring a professional makeup artist versus a bride doing her own makeup?

A: Today’s wedding is a well-documented event. Between photography and videography, brides are immortalized on film. The importance of wearing correctly matched foundation pigments paired with eye and lip colors that not only complement the bride, but portray her in an iconic and timeless way require the eye of a beauty expert. A professional understands the timing of the day and knows exactly how long it will take to achieve a bridal look. When brides take beauty into their own hands on a day as important as this, they run the risk of not accomplishing what they hoped to achieve due to the distractions and demands of a wedding.

Q: When should a bride start to consider what her “Wedding Day Look” will be and what is the process for hiring a professional makeup artist?

A: As soon as a bride chooses her gown and veil; commits to the colors and flowers of her wedding; and chooses the time of day and venue, then defining the look of her day will unfold. So many variables influence how a bride will wear her hair and makeup. For example, a beach wedding requires a completely different look then a black tie affair at a museum. Beauty experts will help interpret what will work for the time and place of a wedding event. That is why it is important to get recommended pros lined up early. Recommendations from friends, who are already married; from wedding planners or others in the bridal business tend to be reliable sources. Remember: the bridal months of May and June and then September and October book up quickly.

Q: Does the time of day a bride is getting married and the type of wedding she is having factor into her wedding day makeup?

A: Absolutely! Morning brides want a fresh, dewy, wide-awake look that is naturally interpreted with soft tones and subtle sparkle. They seek a sheer look that photographs beautifully while conveying a barely-there makeup presence. The afternoon bride takes it one step further, while still embracing a fresh luminance. She might opt for a slightly smoky eye that will take her into the evening. Often, she wants eyelash clusters called flairs that give just a little pop to her look. Her liner is usually more prominent and her lip color might be a striking hue. Her hair may go partially up or, if it is a hot day, into an updo. The evening bride wants to bring on the glam! She likes false lashes, smoky smoldering eyes, sparkly cheek color and strong brows. Naturally, so much of how a look is interpreted will depend on where she is getting married and what type of wedding she is having. There are no hard and fast rules and ultimately, a professional should be sensitive to the comfort level of the bride and those in her party having their makeup done. Smoky eyes and lashes aren’t for everyone!

Q: What are some of the trends in wedding day makeup?

A: At BridesMade, we are careful not to do any look that conveys a “trendy” look. Brides forget that their look will be immortalized so it is essential that they love it, not just on the day of the wedding, but 30 years from now. As a beauty guide for over 20 years, I can actually look into the crystal ball of their day and envision how the entire look will come together. There is only a small window of time to get to know a bride; to visualize her gown; her hair; and the theme of the day. Channeling that information into a beautifully made up face requires numerous questions and an innate sense of wedding style.

Q: What are some of the techniques you use to ensure a brides’ makeup will last all day long and into the night?

A: It definitely helps when a bride arrives on her big day looking and feeling rested. Without a doubt, brides who exercise, watch their diet and don’t overindulge in alcohol and partying the nights before the wedding always have a “canvas” that is easier to “paint!” Our makeup mainstays are primers and everything waterproof. We live in a humid part of the country so using waterproof concealers and liners with primers for face and lid as backups really ensures that the makeup will make it through an emotionally packed day of joy, tears, kisses, eating and toasting!

To contact Kim for your wedding day beauty visit http://www.kimwadsworth.com/ or e-mail kim@kimwadsworth.com

The photos above are examples of the caliber of wedding day beauty Kim can create for you!

Kate Tynes April 10 - Soft and Romantic

2010-05-10T09:07:00.000-07:00

Renowned photographer Keith Cephus was gracious to send us photos of one our shared brides, Kate Tynes. Kate chose one of my favorite gowns in our collection. There are so many things I love about her gown. The first is that it's not strapless. I love the English net fabric that oozes of soft elegance. The elongated bodice of criss-crossed ruching and bubble hemline capture the modern trends of today, yet the silhouette offers classic elements like the bateau neckline, v-back and buttons along the zipper. This gown exudes couture, without the heavy price tag. It offers so many details without being overdone. This gown was made for Kate. I think you'll agree with me that she wore this gown magnificently and she will look back at these stunning photos for years to come and remember how beautiful she felt and looked on her wedding day! We will be seeing Kate again soon as she is a bridesmaid in another Maya Couture wedding. Kate, we can't wait to see you again soon and hear all about your wedding!!

The designer of Kate's gown is Impression Bridal. The style is 3021. Call our salon at 757-461-1690 for more details. To see more of Kate's photos as well as Keith's other amazing brides visit http://www.keithcephus.com/

Carol and Chris - April 10, 2010

2010-04-22T07:57:00.000-07:00

What brings me the most joy in my career is when we exceed our clients' expectations - this is what we strive for everyday - and this was my experience when I had the pleasure of working with Carol Bucher and her mother Laura.

Carol is one of our many "out-of-town" brides. Her mom lives here, but Carol and her now husband Chris reside in Las Vegas. It was important that Carol's mom be a big part of the gown shopping experience, which is why Carol purchased her gown from us. Carol had planned to make two trips back for her gown fittings, but as planning would have it, she was not able to come back for her second fitting. It just so happens that one of my former colleagues from Vera Wang moved to Las Vegas and opened her own bridal salon, Couture Bride. I called Dawn and arranged to ship Carol's dress to her store and she and her tailors took incredible care of Carol and her gown at her final fitting!

The end result was a happy, well cared for, and radiant bride as you can see from the photos. Carol's gown is "Rosabel" by Maggie Sottero. This gown to me is the quintessential modern ball gown with an elongated corset bodice and soft pleated ball gown skirt. The sumptuous duchess satin in color Alabaster gives it a richness and romantic flair that so many brides desire. To enhance the elegance the neckline and waistline are accented in stunning swarovski crystals. Perfect details. Perfect fit!

Here's what Carol and her mom had to say about their Maya Couture experience:

"Our wedding planning adventure began at Maya Couture in Norfolk, Virginia and ended at the JW Marriott in Las Vegas. Maya set the tone for our adventure by providing her warm, caring, and attentive personality which immediately put us at ease. We had fun from the very start and enjoyed every minute with the entire staff. Maya gently led us to find the “perfect” dress and participated in our celebratory cheering. She even had connections in Las Vegas and arranged to ship my daughter’s dress to a friend’s bridal shop for the final fitting! We can’t say enough about the attention and service we received from Maya and her staff. Thank you, thank you, and thank you to everyone at Maya Couture Bridal Fashions!"

Photos and video by Digs Studio - Check out the very cool wedding video of Carol & Chris

http://www.digsstudioblog.com/

2011 Trends: Ruffles, and Tiers, and Bows Oh My!!

2010-04-16T11:50:00.000-07:00

I returned from my buying trip to NYC and just when I think I can't possibly be blown away by the new collections they get me...so excited to offer these collections to my brides, and inspired to create as well!! It's such a synergistic moment! I had the pleasure to visit and tour the Pronovias Flagship salon, and place an advance 2011 order! The dresses above are all part of the 2011 collection and will be available exclusively at Maya Couture as early as June 2010!

So what's hot for the coming seasons? Layers of bountiful ruffles and tiered skirts are huge! Whether they flow from a fitted bodice or ball gown silhouette they make an airy statement full of flair!

Bows are everywhere....minimal and tasteful unlike the bold bows on gowns from the 80's. The bow is present as an accent to the bustline, or hidden in the tucks of pick-up ball gowns, and along the back zipper or train. They are sweet, classic, with modern updates.

Tulle gowns always seem to fade in and out quietly. Next season they are in! From the short 50's ball gown shapes to ultra-minis or spilling from an elongated bodice, they are soft and stunning!

Texture and three-dimensional details offer such a luxurious look next season. Gowns of organza with mikado flowers, chiffon with feathers and beads or multi-layer blends of English net, Swiss dots, and Chantilly lace are just a few of the looks we will see next season.

Other strong trends from this season that will carry into 2011 include the one-shoulder gowns. This look is elegant and adds length to any woman's body. It can work on the simplest of designs to the bold frocks coming down the runway next season. The one-shoulder looks stunning with an accent like a brooch, floral and feathered pieces, or a great woven focal point.

Short hemlines keep getting shorter. I saw fun and flirty dresses from tea-length to ultra-mini and mod! If you desire two looks and you want one to be casual yet sassy at your reception, seek out one of many short looks coming next season. I've ordered a bunch and will post photos as we get them.

There is surely a look for every bride. The new collections exude impeccable detailing, vintage charm on modern designs, and the most sumptuous fabrics to choose from. We can't wait for the new collections to arrive and help you find your dream gown!

A Maya Couture Wedding Party

2010-04-10T11:39:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to our couple Latasha and Tarail who were married on April 3rd. The wedding took place at the Westin Hotel, Virginia Beach. Latasha wore one of my favorite gowns "Fanal" by designer La Sposa. The fully ruched trumpet style gown with buttons down the zipper exudes minimal, modern, elegance. She added a dramatic accent with her birdcage veil.

The bridesmaids wore style #6556 by After Six in georgette fabric shirred with an empire bodice in a stunning citrus ombre pattern. To balance the vibrant color palette the grooms party wore our 2-button Alfresco Suit in Khaki with white shirts and vests and tangerine classic ties.

The color scheme was bold with hints of muted tones to make the tropical colors pop. The entire look was polished, current and beautifully coordinated.

Photography provided by Keith Cephus Photography http://www.keithcephus.com/

Located inside Maya Couture

2010-04-07T11:38:00.000-07:00

What is the role of wedding planner? Why do you need one?
By Guest Blogger Malissa Murphy, CMT Event Planning
http://www.cmteventplanning.com/
Above are photos from recent weddings
Photography by Keith Cephus and Sam Hughes

The primary role of wedding planner is to help guide you in planning out your wedding by relieving stress and saving you time, keeping you on a timely schedule, and most importantly planning and sticking to your budget from the day of our first meeting to the wedding day. I am available every step of the way to help answer questions, be a contact for vendors, and take away your worries while saving you money. No matter how large or small your wedding and budget I am here to make sure you stay within it. My priority is not only in making your wedding day stress free, but to make the entire process enjoyable while making your vision come true.

Many people see a wedding planner as being unnecessary or “way out of the budget.” However as a wedding planner I am here as a resource with established vendor relationships and knowledge of the details needed to make sure every aspect of your day runs smoothly. Throughout the process I will become your on call wedding dictionary and reference book.

In a recent meeting with one of my brides who is getting married in August at the Half Moone, she and her mother, shared their excitement about having me to help with the planning. A few of the many reasons for the excitement and gratitude were for the number of resources I have that cut out countless hours of research on her behalf, the feeling of freedom that comes along with not getting bogged down by details, and being able to look forward to the wedding day without any stress of who will be in charge of setup, breakdown, vendors, guests, and the list goes on. The most significant aspect was being able to guide her to vendors that are within her budget so that she no longer had the overwhelming task of research that so often turned up as a dead end or didn’t fit in her budget.

No matter how far along you are in planning your wedding, it is never too late to hire CMT Event Planning because we are here to customize our packages to your wedding needs.

The Maya Couture Bride Gallery 1

2010-04-06T14:59:00.000-07:00

Here are some of our amazing and beautiful brides! Photos courtesy of Keith Cephus and Sam Hughes

Cherish the Love...Cherish the Life

2010-04-03T11:20:00.000-07:00

This being only my second post I certainly was not planning to write something so profound. But such is life that we never know what each day will bring us and what we will take from it. I am fortunate that most of the days of my life have been filled with blessings. Unfortunately, on Tuesday of this week I was not so lucky. I lost a friend, unexpectedly. This post is dedicated to him, now an Angel watching over me.

When we lose a loved one part of the mourning process allows each of us to stop and remember what's most important, and hopefully prioritize our life to focus on truly what matters. The inconveniences, the materialistic desires, the pressure to do more, to make more, and to outdo are cast aside...as they should be.

Remember what's most important when planning a wedding...the love between you and your partner and the start of a new life spent together. There are days when I encounter brides and grooms who seem so overwhelmed and consumed by the details. The grandeur of the affair outshines the beauty of their union. They lose sight of what it all means, what really matters and why they have the great fortune to be planning this special day together. The chance that these couples won't even enjoy their wedding day is high, and it hurts to watch.

If you are about to embark on planning a wedding or are in the throws of it now, here are some tips to ensure you can enjoy the process,cherish this moment in your life and capture the love between you and your partner:

1. Before you do anything determine your budget and how it is going to be divided amongst each wedding element. If you don't know how to do this (and even if you do) your next step is #2. During this process you want to also discuss how formal and how big your wedding might be.

2. Hire a wedding planner! I've heard couples say they can't afford to hire a planner. If you want to get your money's worth, minimize your stress and enjoy this very special time in your life, you can't afford NOT to have a planner!

3. Together decide what your top 3 priorities are and focus on those. Delegate all the other "stuff" to your planner, your wedding party, and/or your family. If your priorities are the entertainment and activities for your guests, the food, and the videography, then let those be your focus. Everything else can be distributed amongst your help.

4. Don't sweat the small stuff. Planning is a process and anything this big and that requires so much time is bound to have a few hiccups. However, if you've hired the right professionals - reputable and who love what they do, like I do - then they will do everything in their power to fix the mishaps. This is where having a planner will be worth every penny!

Don't be afraid to ask for help, but be very selective of who you ask. This is supremely important when selecting your gown and bridal party attire(we will focus on this in a later post). You want trustworthy, reliable folks who are genuinely happy for the two of you! This is your time!

None of us know when time will be taken away from us, so do all you can to make sure you enjoy every moment!

I've stressed the importance of a wedding planner so the next post will be presented by wedding planner extraordinaire Malissa Murphy of CMT Event Planning (www.cmteventplanning.com) on "The Role of a Wedding Planner and Why You Need One".

Until then, cherish the love...cherish the life!

Commitment

2010-03-27T10:04:00.000-07:00

It is Saturday March 27th and I've finally made the commitment to blog - something I have wanted to do for a while! But like anything we desire to do successfully, like marriage, we have to fully commit ourselves to it.

I feel confident that I have been entrenched in fashion, weddings, customer service, and the psychology of all three, to share my insight, advice, stories, and unique and special experiences with you. I will also collaborate with peers in my industry to bring you ideas and inspiration to make your special day as personal, unique and momentous as possible.

What you can expect from this blog is my commitment to bring you the hottest trends in the bridal industry that stretch beyond the gown and veil. I will share with you the do's and don'ts of attire, etiquette, planning, budgeting, and managing the relationships with your bridal party, family, and your wedding vendors. It will include events, resources, and conversations with the bridal pros to help ensure that the planning you put in, whether it is 4 months or 24 months, is as smooth and enjoyable as it should be!

The search for your dream gown and the journey to the altar should be a joyous occasion. I hope the contents of my blog help to make that happen for you!