As promised, below are my favorite vendors from last week’s New York Magazine Wedding Event. I selected these not only because of the quality of their products and services, but also because of my pleasant experience and interest in the people behind the companies and/or their representatives.
Kleinfeld is the most recognized bridal shop. They sell more designer wedding dresses than any other boutique or department store in the world. They even have some amazing designers who sell their dresses exclusively at their store. That means you really can’t find these gowns or experience anywhere else. Ever see videos or photos of women standing in line for hours just to get into a bridal gown sale? Yep, they were probably standing in front of Kleinfeld.
Personal Note: Below is Ronnie Rothstein, owner of Kleinfeld and probably one of the sweetest men you could ever meet. I met Ronnie at last year’s New York Magazine’s Wedding Event. After telling him that I was a huge fan of Say Yes to the Dress and wished I could afford to buy an accessory there (I had already purchased my two wedding gowns), he immediately gave me his card and told me to get in touch with him. “I’ll take care of you”, he said. And he did. Although I decided to go the DIY route when it came to my veil, Ronnie got me an appointment and I was treated so well by the staff. It was a wonderful experience I’ll never forget.
Michelle New York is run by three women, including founder and namesake Michelle Fields, out of a boutique in Brooklyn. The exquisite lace featured on their showcased dresses immediately drew me in from afar. I just love lace! Not a bride? Not to worry. They actually sell contemporary clothing in their boutique. I’ll definitely be making the trek down to Brooklyn for a visit soon. Their Jackie O Dress is at the top of my shopping wish list. Their Geo Jacquard pieces are also something to see.
This faux taco truck from Tacombi was a huge hit at the Wedding Event. Food trucks are a popular new trend and this is a wonderful take on it. They served delicious chicken and vegan (corn and poblano) tacos which would satisfy all of your guests’ appetites.
Speaking of yummy treats, did you think I would forget to include a favorite bakery? Never! Cake Alchemy is one of the most famous cake shops in the country. They have been featured regularly in television and magazines. They also make the best red velvet cakes I have ever tasted…EVER!
Personal Note: Lauri Ditunno (owner of Cake Alchemy, photographed below) designed my Groom’s Cake. It was a surprise for my then husband-to-be. I knew from the very beginning that I wanted a New Orleans themed cake for him and there was no where else I wanted to go but Cake Alchemy. Not only did I fall in love with their amazing cake designs but knowing that Lauri is a retro/vintage inspired fashion lover like me, I knew we would make a perfect match. More on my groom’s cake soon. Stay Tuned!
Look at all those colorful stones below! Anna Sheffield has the rings to match your wedding’s color scheme. This is a way to not only additionally incorporate your color into your party’s attire but also give a very special thank you to your bridal party. I really loved their jewelry and was ecstatic to find out that they don’t just do wedding jewelry. Check out their website to see contemporary (hello, stacking rings!) pieces from the designer.
Dermalogica is a well known skin care brand featured in just about every high-end spa in New York City. Since wedding planning can be so stressful, it’s no surprise Dermalogica is there to offer its services in treating those pesky stress-related skin issues. No surprise zits on the big day for Dermalogica brides!
Personal Note: I actually used Dermalogica products while I was pregnant/nursing/planning my wedding to calm my hormonal skin and highly recommend the brand.
Diane Gordon Catering was my favorite food vendor at the event. Their spread was not only delicious but flawless in their presentation. Look at all those colors! They served plantain chips (yum!) and popcorn to snack on, AND codfish ceviche in pretty little clear cups. You could customize the ceviche by adding some of the many toppings pictured at the top. They included mango, cilantro, avocado and several other delicious toppings. It was to die for!
If you read my blog or watch my YouTube videos regularly, you know I love everything that’s vintage, retro and vintage inspired. That’s why it’s no surprise I chose Village Invites as my favorite invitation/stationary company. They had a great assortment of invite styles including some very nice classic/retro invitations. Their boutique sells high-end exquisitely made invitations that will perfectly match your style and budget. I honestly liked every single invitation I saw.
Last but certainly not least is my most surprising find of the night – Oscar De La Renta’s Something Blue! I’m a huge Oscar de la Renta fan. What woman isn’t, am I right? But Oscar has a very special place in my heart as a designer.
1. He’s latino. I just have to support our Hispanic captains of industry as there can be so few.
2. He dressed our first ladies. Who isn’t grateful for his intervention of Hilary?
3. He designs timeless classic pieces that can make any woman look elegant and perfectly polished.
4. He’s now designing exquisite wedding gowns.
5. He has this amazing new perfume!
Oscar and his team put a great amount of thought into this product – from the scent to the packaging. Oh, let me tell you about the packaging! The blue top is a beautiful stone indigenous to the Dominican Republic (where the visionary is from). The top and candle holder are blue, which really would make for a great something blue for traditional/superstitious brides. AND that metallic ring you see right under the top that has Oscar’s signature engraved on it actually is a ring! It comes off and you’ve got yourself a cool little band. Love love love this perfume! I hope to get my hands on one soon.
