How Long Before Your Wedding Should You Buy A Wedding Dress.

If the bride has decided to lose weight before the big day, it would not be wise to get the dress early, maybe 2 months before the wedding and then try to maintain her body size. But if she is happy to get the dress earlier then she could get it as soon as the venue is booked and other arrangements are made.

beautiful Nigerian bride

I know that some women get their wedding dresses before they are engaged or sometimes before they have a Fiancé! Perhaps they see their dream dress or a dress is on sale, and they know they want to get married in the future, so they get the dress as an investment.

wedding gown in Lagos

A few people will have an heirloom dress, and if it needs to be adjusted they should not leave it more than two months before, in case there is a problem and they will need to wear another dress.

Here at Hadassah bridals we advise finding the wedding dress three months before the wedding to ensure there is enough time to order a perfect size. Production and shipping can take about 6 to 8 weeks.

Nothing is wrong with finding an already-made wedding dress online and booking your dream dress as soon as possible.

Whether you want a pre-ordered or an already-made wedding dress, Hadassah Bridals is here for you.

To place your order, kindly reach out to our representatives

Call / WhatsApp:+2349024227256, +2348095740006

Visit our store at 8, Ajayi Aina street, by Deeper Life Church, Ifako Gbagada, Lagos.

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How to Find a good Wedding  Photographer

Your photographs will be your most treasured wedding keepsake. You’ll immediately want to share them when your photographer gives them to you, and you’ll look back at them many years from now, reminiscing about the whole event.

Choosing the right photographer to capture those special moments is an important decision and it’s important you find a professional who understands your vision for your wedding day and can document it with style. But you’ll also want someone you trust and feel comfortable with since he or she will be by your side the entire wedding day.

The following are the important guide to finding the perfect wedding photographer

Check your social network for recommendations.

Ask your recently married friends whose wedding photos you loved and solicit recommendations from your wedding planner or the manager of your reception site.

Figure out the style of photography you like.

Do your homework and spend some time getting a sense of the style of photography you like. Once you’ve found a handful of photographers whose aesthetic jives with yours, email each person and inquire about if they’re available on your wedding date and the cost of their photography. If the ones you’re interested in are available on your wedding date and if their fees are within your budget, then you can schedule initial meetings.

Interview the photographers.

Most photographers will email you a link to their portfolio of images before your first meeting. Be sure the collection includes recent weddings he or she has shot from start to finish, not just a “best of” highlight reel from dozens of different weddings. This is a more accurate way to gauge the photographer’s work. Also, ask if the photographer has shot at your venue and if so, request to see those photos.

During the meeting, find out who exactly will shoot on your wedding day. Some larger studios employ several photographers, and even with single-person operations, it’s not unusual for the photographer to have an assistant handle shots of the groom getting ready while he focuses on the bride and bridesmaids. In all cases, request to see the work of the photographer (or photographers) who will be handling your wedding.

Discuss the fee.

Some photographers’ fees include everything including albums, prints, and high-resolution images (saved on a disc or thumb drive); others have a flat or hourly rate. Many photographers offer a price list that details several different packages they offer at different price points. Make sure that you understand what’s included. Ask how long the photographer will spend with you (seven to nine hours is ideal) and whether there will be a second shooter, as you’ll get more detail shots this way.

Make a decision.

Once you’ve evaluated each photographer’s work and fees, and narrowed down the options, it’s time to make your decision. Don’t forget that you’ll be spending the entire wedding day with this person, so you want to make sure you feel completely comfortable with the photographer. Do you and your fiancé genuinely like this person? Do you feel like the three of you click?

Schedule a test run.

An engagement photoshoot is always a good idea, it’s a great opportunity to get to know your photographer and begin to feel comfortable having your photo taken, especially if you or your groom are camera-shy.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a wedding photographer that will capture your wedding day perfectly, don’t worry yourself so much, we have one or two recommendations that can help save the day. We do photoshoot from time to time so we know one or two good photographers

 

FIVE THINGS TO LOOK FOR IN A WEDDING VENUE

Picking a venue is one of the first and most important steps in the wedding planning process. The sooner you start looking out for the venues the better your chances of finding one that fits your need and also available for the date you want.

When focusing on how to choose a wedding venue, there are a number of things to take into consideration, we will discuss five things to look out for while searching for a wedding venue

Budget / Cost: There’s nothing more disappointing than finding what feels like your dream venue but realizing later that it doesn’t fit your wedding budget. Think about how much you’re willing to spend on your wedding and how much of that should be allocated to the venue specifically. Don’t forget to consider the cost of the venue holistically. Some venues might provide some important event services already in their overall price quote while others might charge extra for the same services. Expenses can add up quickly if you have to rent tables, chairs, a dancefloor, lighting, and other things. Your budget is usually the leading factor in how to choose a wedding venue right for you. Sometimes off-season weddings or Sunday weddings can yield a lower price tag.

 

 Availability: If you have made up your mind on a particular date for your wedding, try and start looking at venues early to increase your chance of venues still being available. If your date is more flexible, you should still start well in advance but chances are you’ll have more options since you can pick your date based on the venue’s availability rather than being constrained to a certain date.

What Is The Maximum Capacity? Does It Match Your Guest List Size?: When choosing your venue you’ll want to have at least a rough idea of how many people you will be inviting to your wedding. This will ensure you choose a place that’s the appropriate size for your guest list. Having a venue that’s too large with a smaller guest list can make the place seem a bit empty. On the other hand, you also don’t want to pack 300 guests into a venue that has a maximum capacity of exactly 300 people. Your guests may bump elbows at the dinner tables and on the dance floor. Having an estimate of how many people will likely attend your celebration is also key in figuring out how tables will be arranged and how best to configure your available space. 

Take Note of Parking Options: Especially if your wedding location is a bit isolated or in a busy downtown area, it’s important to check if there are good parking options or how accessible it is to get a cab. Ask about how many parking spaces there are and if guests would need to pay for parking. In the case that there aren’t great options for parking, you can consider hiring a bus or shuttle to bring people to and from the venue. Just make sure you add this expense to your wedding budget!

 Read Multiple Reviews: Make sure to do your research on what people are saying about your venue. You might find information about aspects of the venue you hadn’t even thought to consider and other helpful details. Take note of both the positive and negative comments on third-party sites such as Google reviews TripAdvisor. You could also check reviews on the venue’s Facebook page. Pay special attention to any public replies the venue may have left to guest reviews. This will give you insight into how they may deal with an issue that could arise at your wedding. If you still have some unanswered questions, you can ask the venue for contact information of past couples or wedding planners that hosted weddings at the venue. You can then ask very specific questions to these people and find answers to the questions that may be keeping you up at night.

In conclusion, make sure you leave no stones unturned when picking your chosen venue. Since the wedding venue sets the backdrop for the whole event, it’s important to finalize it before moving on to other details of the event.

 

The Ultimate guide to choosing the perfect wedding for your body type

Are you in the midst of planning your dream wedding but feeling overwhelmed by the process of finding the perfect wedding dress for your body type? Look no further, because this ultimate guide to choosing the perfect wedding dress is here to help! From wedding dresses to wedding accessories, we’ve got you covered.

First, let’s start with the basics. Wedding dresses, also known as wedding gowns, come in a variety of styles, fabrics, and silhouettes, each designed to flatter different body types. The key to finding the perfect wedding dress is to understand your body type and choose a dress that accentuates your best features.

For apple-shaped bodies, consider an empire waist wedding dress that cinches just below the bust and flows away from the body. This style will elongate your torso and create a flattering silhouette. A-line wedding dresses are also a great option for apple-shaped bodies, as they create a slimming effect on the waistline.

For pear-shaped bodies, ballgown wedding dresses are a popular choice, as they accentuate the waist and flow away from the hips. Trumpet and mermaid wedding dresses are also a great option for pear-shaped bodies, as they hug the curves and accentuate the waistline.

Hourglass-shaped bodies can pull off almost any wedding dress style, but consider a form-fitting wedding dress that accentuates your curves. A sweetheart neckline and mermaid silhouette are both great options for hourglass-shaped bodies.

If you have a rectangle-shaped body, consider a wedding dress with a defined waistline to create curves. A ballgown or A-line wedding dress can also create the illusion of curves.

Now that we’ve covered wedding dresses, let’s move on to wedding accessories. Wedding accessories can elevate your wedding dress and add a touch of personal style to your look. Consider a statement necklace or a pair of chandelier earrings to add some sparkle to your wedding day look. A veil is also a popular accessory for brides, and can be personalized with lace or embroidery to match your wedding dress.

Finally, let’s discuss wedding gown rentals. Wedding gown rentals are a great option for brides on a budget or those who prefer a sustainable approach to their wedding day. Renting a wedding dress can also give you access to designer dresses that may be out of your budget to purchase. Be sure to choose a reputable wedding gown rental company and schedule your dress fitting in advance to ensure a perfect fit.

In summary, choosing the perfect wedding dress for your body type is all about understanding your body type and choosing a dress that accentuates your best features. Consider wedding accessories to elevate your look, and explore wedding gown rentals as a budget-friendly and sustainable option. With this ultimate guide to choosing the perfect wedding dress, you’ll be well on your way to saying “I do” in style.

 

How to incorporate your culture into your traditional wedding day.

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, and it is the perfect opportunity to showcase and celebrate your cultural heritage. Incorporating your culture into your wedding day is a beautiful way to honor your roots, pay tribute to your ancestors, and share your traditions with your loved ones. If you are planning to incorporate your culture into your wedding day, here are some tips and ideas to get you started.

Choose a meaningful venue

The venue you choose for your wedding day can play a significant role in incorporating your culture into your celebrations. If you have a specific cultural or religious tradition, consider choosing a venue that reflects your beliefs. For example, if you are of Indian heritage, you may want to consider having your wedding at a temple or an outdoor space with traditional Indian decor. If you are of Irish descent, you may want to have your wedding at a castle or a historic Irish site.

Wear traditional attire

Your wedding attire is another way to incorporate your culture into your special day. Wearing traditional attire not only celebrates your heritage, but it also adds an extra layer of beauty and meaning to your wedding day. Depending on your culture, you may choose to wear a saree, a qipao, a kilt, or any other traditional dress that represents your heritage. You can also incorporate traditional accessories such as jewelry or headpieces.

Add cultural elements to your ceremony

Your wedding ceremony is a perfect opportunity to showcase your cultural heritage. Consider incorporating traditional elements such as religious readings, prayers, or blessings. You can also include cultural rituals such as the lighting of a unity candle, the exchange of garlands, or the breaking of a glass. These elements not only add cultural significance to your wedding day, but they also create a memorable experience for your guests.

Incorporate traditional music and dance

Music and dance are a vital part of many cultures, and incorporating them into your wedding day can make it truly special. Choose traditional songs and dances that represent your culture and heritage. You can also hire traditional musicians or dancers to perform during your ceremony or reception. Not only will this add an extra element of entertainment to your wedding day, but it will also educate your guests about your cultural traditions.

Include traditional foods in your menu

Food is an integral part of many cultures, and incorporating traditional dishes into your wedding menu is a great way to celebrate your heritage. Work with your caterer to create a menu that includes traditional dishes from your culture. You can also add cultural elements to your drinks, such as a signature cocktail that reflects your heritage. This will not only satisfy your guests’ taste buds, but it will also add an extra layer of meaning to your wedding day.

Incorporating your culture into your wedding day is a beautiful way to celebrate your heritage and share your traditions with your loved ones. By choosing a meaningful venue, wearing traditional attire, adding cultural elements to your ceremony, incorporating traditional music and dance, and including traditional foods in your menu, you can create a wedding day that truly reflects your cultural identity. Your wedding day is a celebration of your love, but it can also be a celebration of your cultural heritage.

The three major ethnic groups in Nigeria.
 

My Wedding Gown Fitting: What Should I Expect?

For every bride-to-be, their wedding day is one of the most important days they look forward to. Every bride wants to look splendid in their dream wedding dress. Dress fittings are crucial to ensure that the dress you choose perfectly suits your body type. It is also the time to check for any necessary alterations that need to be done to ensure that you achieve your desired look for your big day.

Here are some essential things every bride should keep in mind to have the perfect wedding dress

Time: Time is of the essence when it comes to getting the dress of your dreams. In Nigeria, some brides rent their wedding gowns while others prefer to buy them. For brides who want to buy their wedding gown, it is advised to start their wedding dress shopping early enough. Ideally, a minimum of four months is recommended to allow enough time for choosing your desired dress and undergoing any necessary production processes. Some wedding dresses require a production time of at least eight weeks, while others may take more or less time. Once the dress arrives, it is important to schedule dress fittings and come in to try on the dress. This allows for any necessary corrections or alterations to be made until you are satisfied that your dream look has been achieved.

Being Prepared: When going for your dress fitting, it is important to come prepared. Wear the kind of undergarments you intend to wear on your wedding day to the wedding gown store. This will give you a better idea of how the dress will look and fit. Additionally, bring the shoes you plan to wear or a similar pair if you are uncertain about the exact height. This way, you can practice walking in your dress and determine if it is comfortable to wear. It is also helpful to have an idea of the kind of hairstyle you want, as it will assist in selecting the most suitable hair accessories. Going with Someone You Trust: Dress fittings can evoke a lot of emotions and feelings. It is always a good idea to bring someone you trust and whose judgment you value. They can provide a second opinion and assist you in choosing the ideal dress that is most suitable for you.

– Communication: Effective communication is key during the dress fitting sessions. It is important to express your concerns and preferences to your wedding gown vendor. Communicate any concerns you may have, such as if the dress feels too tight, certain parts are too open, or if you feel uncomfortable walking in it. By openly communicating your concerns, you can work together with the vendor to ensure that you are satisfied and happy with your dress on your big day.

Remember, your wedding gown fitting is an exciting step towards realizing your dream look. By considering these points and actively participating in the process, you can ensure that your wedding dress fits you perfectly and makes you feel confident and beautiful on your special day.

 

TIPS ON PLANNING A WEDDING ON BUDGET

Planning a wedding can be one of the most exciting and memorable times of your life, but it can also be one of the most expensive. With so many details to consider, it’s easy for costs to quickly spiral out of control. However, with a little creativity and smart planning, it’s possible to have the wedding of your dreams without breaking the bank. In this article, we’ll share some practical tips for planning a wedding on a budget, without sacrificing on style or quality.

Set a budget

The first step to planning any wedding is to set a budget. Determine how much you can realistically afford to spend on your wedding and allocate funds accordingly. This will help you stay on track and avoid overspending.

Prioritize your expenses

Once you have a budget in place, prioritize your expenses based on what’s most important to you. For example, if you’re a foodie, you might want to allocate more money to your catering budget. If you’re a fashionista, you might want to spend more on your wedding dress. Identify what matters most to you and allocate your budget accordingly.

Choose an off-peak season

Choosing an off-peak season for your wedding can save you a significant amount of money. Wedding venues and vendors often have lower rates during the off-season, which can help you stretch your budget further.

Consider a weekday wedding

Weekday weddings are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. Not only are they more affordable than weekend weddings, but they can also be more intimate and unique. If you’re looking to save money on your wedding, consider having it on a weekday.

Limit your guest list

One of the most significant expenses for any wedding is the cost of feeding and entertaining your guests. Limiting your guest list can help you save money on catering, favors, and other expenses. Be sure to invite only your closest family and friends, and consider having a smaller, more intimate wedding.

DIY where possible

DIY (Do-It-Yourself) projects can be a great way to save money on your wedding. From creating your own invitations and decorations to making your own wedding favors, there are plenty of ways to add a personal touch to your wedding while saving money.

Opt for a non-traditional venue

Wedding venues can be expensive, especially if you’re looking to get married in a popular location. Consider non-traditional venues such as parks, gardens, or even your own backyard. These venues can be more affordable, and they can also provide a unique and memorable setting for your wedding.

Shop around for vendors

When it comes to hiring vendors for your wedding, it pays to shop around. Get quotes from multiple vendors and compare prices to find the best deal. Be sure to read reviews and ask for referrals to ensure that you’re hiring reputable vendors.

Rent or borrow what you can

Wedding rentals can be expensive, so consider renting or borrowing what you can. This can include everything from your wedding dress and accessories to decorations and tableware.

Be flexible

Finally, be flexible when planning your wedding. Consider alternative options if your first choice is out of your budget. Be open to compromise and prioritize what’s most important to you.

In conclusion, planning a wedding on a budget doesn’t have to be stressful or overwhelming. With a little planning, creativity, and flexibility, you can have the wedding of your dreams without breaking the bank. Remember to set a budget, prioritize your expenses, shop around for vendors, and be flexible. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to planning a beautiful and affordable wedding.


 

The Ultimate Post-Wedding To-Do List: What to Tackle After the Big Day

You’ve just celebrated one of the most magical days of your life, and you’re officially married. While the wedding itself is a significant milestone, there are still some important tasks to tackle in the days, weeks, and months following your wedding. In this post, we’ll walk you through the essential post-wedding tasks to ensure a smooth transition into married life.

1. Send Thank-You Cards:

After your wedding, it’s customary to send heartfelt thank-you cards to your guests. Personalize your messages to express your gratitude for their presence and any gifts they gave.

thank you for coming for my wedding

2. Review and Confirm Vendor Payments:

Double-check your vendor contracts and ensure that all payments have been made. Don’t forget any outstanding balances or tips for your vendors.

payments to wedding vendors

3. Preserve Your Wedding Attire:

Whether you plan to keep or sell your wedding dress and suit, take steps to clean and preserve them properly. Consult a professional cleaner for guidance. If your dress was rented, ensure that it is returned promptly to the wedding gown shop. 

beautiful Hadassah Bride in her luxury robe with her wedding gown

4. Handle Legal Name Changes (if applicable):

If you or your spouse plan to change your last name, research the legal process in your area and begin the necessary paperwork.

5. Obtain Your Marriage License:

After the wedding, ensure that your marriage license is signed by your officiant and filed correctly with the appropriate government office.

6. Notify Key Institutions:

Update your marital status with essential institutions such as banks, insurance companies, and the Social Security Administration.

7. Organize Wedding Photos and Videos:

Collect and organize your wedding photos and videos. Consider creating an album or a digital archive for easy access and sharing.

beautiful little bride

8. Reflect on Your Wedding:

Take some time to reflect on your wedding day. Share your thoughts and memories with your spouse, and perhaps write down your feelings in a journal.

9. Plan Your Honeymoon (if not taken yet):

If you haven’t already enjoyed your honeymoon, finalize your travel plans and ensure all reservations are in order.

10. Return or Exchange Wedding Gifts:

If you received duplicate gifts or items you don’t need, follow up with the stores or online retailers for returns or exchanges.

11. Review Your Wedding Budget:

Evaluate your wedding budget and expenses to ensure you’ve accounted for everything accurately.

12. Set Financial Goals:

As a newlywed couple, it’s an excellent time to discuss and set financial goals for your future together. Consider creating a joint budget and savings plan.

set financial goals for life after your wedding day

While the wedding planning process may be complete, the journey of marriage is just beginning. By completing these post-wedding tasks, you’ll not only tie up loose ends but also set the stage for a successful and fulfilling life together as a married couple. Take a deep breath, savor the memories, and embrace the exciting adventures that lie ahead!

We are your go to the bridal shop in Lagos and Manchester for wedding gowns for your different body types.

Are you still confused about the wedding gown that will fit your body shape? Click here to read more.

Get different wedding gowns in all sizes and designs here.

Click here to chat with us directly on Whatsapp. Visit our Bridal Showroom in Lagos at 8, Ajayi Aina Street, By Deeper Life Church, Ifako, Gbagada, Lagos

 

What Does It Mean If You Catch the Bouquet?

Tossing of bouquet has become a necessity at many modern weddings. Even if you haven’t been to many receptions, you will probably know how this tradition is carried out.

The unmarried guests gather on one side of the dance floor, while the bride  stands several feet across from them. There, they turn to face the opposite direction and quite literally toss their bouquet over their shoulders to be caught by one of the participants. But what does catching the bouquet at a wedding mean? We take a look at the history of the bouquet toss and its modern symbolism to get a better idea of what it means when someone catches the bouquet.

The History of the Bouquet Toss

The tradition of tossing the bouquet started from ancient England, prior to the 1800s. History tells us that during this time it was considered good luck to touch the bride on her big day so that some of her good luck would rub off on you. After a couple’s wedding ceremony, those in attendance, especially single women would rush to the bride in hopes that some of this luck would transfer to them, so that they, too, could get married soon. Oftentimes, this would progress to people trying to rip pieces of fabric off of the bride’s gown. Many even tried to make off with the bouquet.

beautiful bride

While this may come across as shocking, it’s important to keep in mind the purposes and culture surrounding getting married at the time. Back then, marriage was viewed as more of a transaction, oftentimes of wealth or social status. For many women, it was their only hope of rising above their situation or financially supporting themselves and their families. This made marrying the right person, by those standards, a very large responsibility or expectation. Knowing that, it isn’t difficult to imagine single women competing for every bit of luck they could get their hands on.

To avoid the sometimes brutal nature of this tradition, brides began tossing their bouquets as a distraction. They’d then run in the opposite direction in an attempt to escape the crowd and leave their wedding night in peace. Over time, this became incredibly common and eventually took the place of the older tradition. It has become a new tradition, and has enabled those getting married to still grant one wedding guest some luck without having to fight too hard for it.

beautiful bouquet

The Modern Bouquet Toss

Now that the reasons for marriage have changed , people now marry for love. Along with this, the tossing of bouquet has evolved. It is now a fun game of competition and chance, as well as an opportunity to put the spotlight on unmarried friends. Some bride don’t even toss bouquet at their wedding anymore

Whether you plan to toss your bouquet or keep them for decoration, you can always get beautiful bouquets from Hadassah Bridals.

Call / WhatsApp :+2349024227256, +2348095740006

Visit our store at 8, Ajayi Aina street, by Deeper Life Church, Ifako, Gbagada, Lagos.

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TEN THINGS TO DO A NIGHT BEFORE YOUR WEDDING

Nigerian couple

1. Eat a Healthy Meal

Though you might feel like eating pizza or Shawarma, it’s better to stick to fresh fruit and whole grain. They won’t have you waking up with a food hangover like fries will on your wedding day.

2. Pack a Bag of Personal Items

Put together your reception bag, and hand it off to your chief bride’s maid who can ensure it’s waiting for you in your hotel 

3. Drink a Lot of Water

Keep a bottle of water close by and make sure you spend some quality time with it. This will help you avoid any dehydration that stress and running around can cause

4. Get a Good Night’s Sleep

Try to to get enough sleep at night this will help you feel better during the day.

5. Turn Your Phone on Silent

Say no to checking Facebook and answering text messages. Turn your device on silent or hand it over to somebody you can trust or Chief bride’s maid to look after it.

6. Make Sure You Have Cash At Hand

Have some cash nearby in case you need to pay some vendors or any last-minute emergencies

7. Watch Something That’ll Make You Laugh

In the spirit of putting yourself in a happy and exciting mood, treat yourself with some funny YouTube videos or search for your favorite comedy.

8. Practice Walking in Your Shoes

Even better, make sure you practice walking a straight line in the shoes. After that, play yourself some nice music and do some dance moves. This will help you not only relieve some stress, but it’ll also make you see your threshold for when your wedding shoes are going to start throwing a temper tantrum on your feet.

9. Charge Your Phone

In addition to putting your phone on silent, you will want to make sure it’s plugged through the night. Not that you’ll be on your cell phone much during the day, but it’s good to have it fully charged in case of emergency or if you want to snap a quick picture

10. Say a Big “Thank-You”

Before the wedding-day chaos kicks in, be sure to thank people in advance for sticking by your side through this adventure. Give an extra hug to your bridal party and pop a kiss on the cheeks of your family members

If you have any further questions or you are thinking of where to get your bridal dress and accessories, Hadassah bridals is just a dm away.

Call / WhatsApp :+2349024227256, +2348095740006

Visit our store at 8, Ajayi Aina street, by Deeper Life Church, Ifako Gbagada, Lagos.

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