New BERTA MUSE 25-40 Orion
Get ready to fall in love with Orion by Muse by Berta - a modern corset with tulle skirt paired with a rosette strap that wraps around the neck. How many different ways can we say CHIC?
The Cool Bride Edit
Our chic staff picked their favorite wedding dresses for a cool bride, looking to make a statement in her wedding day wardrobe. If your style descriptors look like: chic, cool, modern — these are the picks from our stock of bridal gowns for you. Featuring wedding dresses from our Coral Gables bridal boutique from designers: Berta, Katherine Tash, Chosen by Kyha, Ines Di Santo, and Alex Perry.
#realchicbride Zoe in Berta at her Tampa Wedding
Real Chic Bride Zoe at her wedding in Tampa wearing a chic and glittery Berta dress. Hear more about her love story, how they incorporated their dog into their wedding, and how she knew that this Berta dress was “the one” for her.
Tell us your love story! How did you meet and how did you get to a proposal?
We met at the University of Central Florida in 2017! I was invited to play in a soccer game with a friend and met Matthew. A couple of months later we were inseparable! We traveled together, got our first dog, moved in together, and in 2021 Matthew got down on one knee on a trip to Washington D.C!
When you started planning your wedding what did you envision? How close did the actual wedding get to that vision?
When I thought about my wedding I wanted spring and sparkle. I think I got very close to my vision! I had beautiful pastel florals everywhere you could think of. I wanted some water element to my venue so when I found the river center I was obsessed it gave us enough creative freedom to make our vision come true. I have always wanted my wedding colors to be champagne and black because it is timeless but gives you so much room to add special details that may be hard to match with other colors.
What were a few things that were important to you as a couple to include (or not include) in the wedding?
We actually had our dog, Kylo in our wedding and this was so awesome! We have had him since college and he has been able to grow with us as we went from boyfriend and girlfriend to fiancés and now husband and wife! We used Fairytail Pets and she was so amazing!! She got his attention for all the photos and even sent us pictures when they took him home. We felt so comfortable leaving our boy with them.
I also really wanted to do a first look. It was so special to have a moment just the two of before the craziness started and it was amazing! We got all of our photos done during this time as well which saved us a lot of time after the ceremony, totally worth it!
Lastly, we did a boat exit and it was so much fun!! Everyone got on a water taxi and got dropped off at the hotels!
How did you decide on the location?
When we picked a venue I wanted to make sure it was a place we could easily visit. I am from Tampa and Matthew is from Miami so we wanted to stay close to either city and preferred it to be on the water. When we saw the Tampa river center it was perfect. Right in the heart of Tampa, on the water, modern but elegant, and it’s somewhere we can go visit to remember all the great moments we had on April 28th.
Let's talk dress! Give us all the deets!
I went to a dress boutique to try dresses and I liked them BUT I had my heart set on my Berta dress from the moment I saw it. I looked up all the places that carried it and when I saw Chic Parisien in Miami I made an appointment the next day.
Every dress I tried on was absolutely stunning however, when I put my dress on I and everyone else knew it was the one.
I love glitter and it doesn’t get more sparkly than this dress! Not only did the glitter sell me but also all the small details like the corset top, studded straps, and all of the layers. Truly the most stunning piece I have ever worn and I feel so lucky to have gotten married in my dream dress!
How did your family, friends, etc play into your wedding planning and wedding day?
My mom was my rock in all of this. She was on top of every detail in the best way possible. She helped me pick out all the details with the florals, rentals, and accommodations. Her and my father were a huge part in making my dream wedding come true and I couldn’t be more thankful! My twin sister planned my bachelorette helped with my bridal shower and was so helpful and encouraging throughout everything!
My mother and law and grandmother-in-law were at every dress fitting and did so much to help! All the signage done at the ceremony was from my mother-in-law and she planned our rehearsal dinner!
Matthew's grandfather actually officiated our wedding which was so special for us. Something we truly will never forget. Of course, I would have been lost without my bridesmaids and I am so appreciative of each other for everything they did, they are the best!
What's one specific memory you have from your wedding day that you don't think you'll ever forget?
Matthew and I started to make a first dance routine about two weeks before the wedding which was a little scary because we only had two weeks to get it right. We actually went and practiced in the venue with my dress on before the ceremony and it was a little rocky. Once it was time for our first dance we nailed it!! I just remember being so excited to have just perfected our first task in marriage and it was so fun!
How did you decide on your hair and makeup look?
Because my dress was so much(in the best way possible) I wanted very simple hair and makeup. I had loose waves in my hair and for makeup I actually got inspired by looking at Berta’s page and seeing what other brides had done for their makeup! I went with a brown smoky eye and bronzed finish.
Was there one vendor you used that you wish everyone knew about?
This is so hard to pick!! I have to shoutout three of them,
First my photographer, Karin Marie Photography, she completely outdid herself. I felt so comfortable with her the entire night and she was a bride’s girl all night long. She never left my side and did everything she could to make sure I had the best night ever while getting the most amazing photos. I got my preview the next day which exceeded all my expectations. She was absolutely amazing.
Next, my florist with Petals Parties and Presents! I told her spring and she delivered. I never picked a single flower, only gave her a couple of Inspo photos like 8 months before and she made the most beautiful floral arrangements I have ever seen. She even texted me the night before about how obsessed she was with my bouquet and it just got me so excited! The florals complemented my dress and my bridesmaids’ champagne dresses. Classy can be colorful and she proved it!
Lastly, my wedding planner Katy with Coastal Coordinating. She had every detail planned out and was so supportive of every decision I made. She was honest and practical, you can’t ask for more! During my wedding, she always made sure I had everything I needed! She even called the dress company my bridesmaids’ dresses were from because there was a stain on one of them and she wanted to know the best way to immediately get it out. Literally above and beyond.
Where did you go on your honeymoon and what was the best part?
We went to Ocho Rios Jamaica for our honeymoon and it was so dreamy. We woke up to a violinist playing on the beach every morning. My favorite part was just spending time with Matthew. Everything we did together was so magical and we truly had the best time. We went hiking up waterfalls, floating down rivers, on catamaran cruises, snorkeling, and so much more! We are so lucky to have each other and can’t wait to build more memories !
Wedding Planner: Coastal Coordinating
Catering: Milan catering
Venue: Tampa river center
Florist: Petals Parties and Presents
Photographer: Karin Marie photography
Videographer: Namesake Creative
Dress: Chic Parisien, Berta
Pet care: FairyTail Pet care
Hair/MU: FemmeAkoi
DJ: Grainger entertainment
Cake: Alessis bakery
Behind The Scenes at Bridal Fashion Week with the Chic Parisien Team: Berta, Mira Zwillinger, Chose by Kyha, Reem Acra, Mark Ingram
Our team just took our bi-annual trip to NYC for Bridal Fashion Week where we scope out tyhe latest collection from our beloved roster of designers and are always on the look out for new and exiting brands to add to our collection. We spent three whirlwind days looking at the latest in bridal fashion and taking stock of the bridal trends for the rest of 2023 and 2024 so that we are prepared with what our brides will be asking for in the coming year as we buy wedding dresses for our stock.
We won’t have these gowns available for another six months or so in our collection (it takes time to make these beautiful, chic, handmade bridal gowns!) but if you see something you love, you should keep an eye out for a trunk show by that bridal designer where the collection will visit our Coral Gables bridal boutique in its entirely. Trunk shows are the best way to get a first look at the wedding dress collection of your favorite bridal designer way in advance of the dresses arriving for our stock.
Here’s a first look at a few of our collections, more to come soon!
BERTA
Chosen by KYHA
Mira Zwillinger
Mark Ingram COllection
Reem acra
Brides Features #realchicbride Brittani's Mexican Wedding
Beautiful #realchicbride Brittani and her Mexican wedding were featured on Brides! Wait until you see the rest of her pictures at her beach wedding absolutely glowing in her Berta wedding dress.
Check out the feature here.
A Studio Session with Daniela in Berta (and a very special guest star!)
The very talented Adriana Rivera (@adriana.rivera.miranda) photographed her gorgeous sister on her wedding day in her studio - the combination is something so special, so chic! Beautiful #realchicbride Daniela wears a stunning Berta wedding dress and her more than adorable pup makes an appearance as a ring bearer!
Check out more of Adriana’s work here.
New Arrival Helga, Muse by Berta at Chic Parisien: A Sparkley Wedding Dress Dream
Chic Parisien’s newest wedding dress arrival is Helga by Muse by Berta.
Berta Privée Collection 4 Highlights
Today we thought we’d highlight just a few of our favorite gowns from the latest collection by Berta Privée. We never pick favorites, but sometimes a collection comes in that is so C H I C we can’t help but to show off some of the gowns that we know you’ll love.
The mermaid cuts. The lace. The sweetheart neckline. This is signature #realchicbride.
Shop the collection from September 24 - 26 at Chic Parisien bridal boutique in Coral Gables, Florida. Make your appointments here.
A Polo Moment at a Vineyard Wedding (Rebekah Wears Muse by Berta!)
#realchicbride Rebekah wore Berta to her wedding - AT HER (NOW) HUSBAND’S VINEYARD! I mean, talk about dreamy. The polo player met her husband when she was hired to help him with the launch of the vineyard and the rest is history.
Her gorgeous Muse by Berta gown looked positively stunning against a backdrop of majestic friends!
Scroll to the bottom for credits.
Tell us your love story! How did you meet and how did you get to a proposal?
I MET MY HUSBAND AT GREENHILL WINERY IN MIDDLEBURG, VIRGINIA. HE HAD JUST PURCHASED IT, AND I WAS HIRED TO HELP LAUNCH THE BUSINESS. FOUR YEARS LATER, HE PROPOSED BY SURPRISING ME WITH A MINIATURE HORSE AND EQUESTRIAN INSPIRED RING (WE ARE HORSE OWNERS AND FANS!)
When you started planning your wedding what did you envision? How close did the actual wedding get to that vision?
IT WAS A DECEMBER WEDDING, SO I ENVISIONED A WINTER WONDERLAND THEME. IT REALLY WAS A WONDERLAND! WE HAD WHITE FAUX FUR WALLS, WHITE FLOORS, FAUX FUR CUSHIONS AND COZY COUCHES, A PEGASUS ICE SCULPTURE, A HOT DRINKS BAR, AND CHRISTMAS TREES EVERYWHERE. THE WEDDING PARTY WORE WHITE, SPARKLES, AND ICE BLUE TONES.
How did you decide on the location?
THE RECEPTION LOCATION WAS AT GREENHILL WINERY, THE PLACE WHERE IT ALL STARTED.
Let's talk dress! Give us all the deets!
I PURCHASED THE "BRIDGET" DRESS FROM MUSE BY BERTA'S SICILY COLLECTION. I ENDED UP REMOVING THE FLUTTER SLEEVES, BUT I JUST LOVED THE BODICE AND HOW IT MOVED. THE TRAIN AND LENGTH WERE BOTH PERFECT FOR WALKING AND TWIRLING WHILE STILL BEING ELEGANT.
How did your family, friends, etc play into your wedding planning and wedding day?
MY BEST FRIEND AND MATRON OF HONOR CAME UP WITH THE IDEA OF A WINTER WONDERLAND WEDDING, SHE HELPED ME A LOT WITH IDEAS. THE BRIDESMAIDS CHOSE THEIR OWN DRESSES, STICKING TO A SILVER AND ICE BLUE THEME.
What's one specific memory you have from your wedding day that you don't think you'll ever forget.
I WILL NEVER FORGET WHEN MY HUSBAND, DAVID, REQUESTED THE BAND TO PLAY METALLICA. AND THEY DID. WE HAVE THE BEST PICTURE OF HIM SINGING FROM THE TOP OF HIS LUNGS WITH HIS HANDS IN THE AIR.
How did you decide on your hair and makeup look?
I WENT BY MUSE BY BERTA'S SICILY INSPIRED LOOK. A LOW BUN, HAIR TENDRILS, HOOP EARRINGS, AND A GLOWY MAKEUP LOOK.
Was there one vendor you used that you wish everyone knew about?
GOSH, THEY WERE ALL AMAZING! I LOVE EVERY VENDOR. THE PASTRY CHEF MADE A TOWER OF BOMOBLINI'S WITH SUGAR ICICLES AND A DUSTING OF POWDERED SUGAR, SO I DO THINK EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW THAT IF YOU WANT A TOWER OF SNOWBALLS TO EAT AT YOUR NEXT EVENT, IT CAN BE DONE!
Where did you go on your honeymoon and what was the best part?
WE WENT TO THE CARIBBEAN. THE BEST PART WAS MY HUSBAND FLYING US AROUND IN HIS PLANE, WE GOT TO THE BEAUTY OF THE ISLANDS FROM THE AIR.
Rebekah Greenhill @ rebekahpolo
Photographer Abby Ballin @aballinphoto
Hair & Makeup Michelle Lelia @ makeupbymichellelelia
Dress Berta
Looking Back At Jordana's Real Chic Breakers Wedding
Where are you from?
I was born in Brazil, but I have been living in Boca Raton, Florida since 7 years old.
Where was your wedding?
The Breakers, Palm Beach.
How did you know you found the perfect dress?
I chose to have my first (and only) wedding dress shopping appointment at Chic Parisien because I have always said that I wanted my wedding dress to be a Berta.
The moment that I walked in, their stylist said, “I have the perfect dress for you!”.
Since I had walked in with an open mind, I said: “OK, let’s try it on!” I walked into the fitting room and there it was - the most beautiful gown I have ever seen, it was love at first sight. When I stepped into the dress, all of the emotions ran through my body and I just knew it from that second. I walked out to show my family, and they all started crying and also loved it. So for me, it was a very easy decision. I did have some other options to try on but I would put it on and it wouldn’t even compare to the first one. In about an hour or so, I had chosen my gown, headpiece, earrings and we also decided to make a custom Berta veil to match the dress perfectly! My wedding dress shopping experience was amazing! I always knew I would be a Berta Bride!!
How did you and your husband meet?
My husband and I are High School Sweethearts! We have been together ever since 2006. We have the most incredible bond so our wedding day was a VERY special day for us!!
What was a special moment you will never forget from your wedding day?
This is a hard one since the entire day was filled with magic! I would have to say that our “first look” for our photos and videos and then kissing my “husband” at the alter was two very special moments for us. This was followed by an amazing reception at The Breakers with our loved ones… full of love, laughter and dancing. I wish I could re-live our wedding day!
What piece of advice would you give future brides?
My piece of advice for future brides would be to not stress about the wedding day. EVERYONE would tell me that I was the most relaxed bride that they had ever seen, and this is how all brides should be. It is not worth stressing or worrying over every little detail because at the end of the day, you are planning a celebration of love and your friends and family will have an amazing time regardless of any situation!
Were there any traditions or something from your religion that you incorporated on your wedding day?
One tradition that I would love to keep in my family is the rosary that was given to me by my grandmother before she passed. I have a photo with it as my “something blue” and I would love to see my daughter take the same photo with it one day <3
Credits:
Retailer: Chic Parisien
Photographer: Munoz Photography
Hair and Makeup: Renata Estapan
Venue: The Breakers
Wedding Planner: GuerdyDesign
Design Team: Birch Event Design
Casey Bought The First and Only Dress She Tried on!
Real bride Casey does not shy away from the details of her stunning wedding in this little interview - you’ll want to keep reading this captivating story!
Tell us your love story! How did you meet and how did you get to a proposal?
My new husband, Kevin, and I met through some of our best friends in St. Louis, Missouri, in 2015. I was born and raised there, and Kevin played for the St. Louis Cardinals at that time. We were out and about one summer night after one of his games, and, I think it’s safe to say, there was an immediate connection. Although we were intrigued by one another, we took our relationship very, very slowly after that first night. Through months and months of light texting about the weather, we finally went out on our first date. It was then, where I knew I had to know this incredible man even more. Timing was not on our side, because immediately following our first date, the baseball season ended, and Kevin had to move back home to Jupiter, FL, while I continued to work in St. Louis. It was more texting about the darn weather until the 2016 season started, when Kevin moved back to St. Louis. It was that year we finally could spend together and our relationship continued to grow. Shortly after, we decided to move in together, and have been together in Jupiter, FL, with our beautiful Siberian Husky, Maverick, ever since!
One weekend in October of 2018, Kevin and I drove from Jupiter to my grandparent’s vacation home in Navarre Beach to meet my parents for a mini break. This Navarre home is so special because my entire family has been visiting together since I was born. I was so excited to show Kevin the home where my family has built so many memories. Low and behold, it was that weekend, on October, 19, 2018, where Kevin got down on one knee on the white powder sand beach in front of my childhood vacation home, where the sun was setting and the moon had already risen, and told me he wanted to “make another memory at this home”. And boy, was this one the most memorable of all. It was an extraordinary moment, and I have never been more sure about saying “Yes” to anything in my whole life.
When you started planning your wedding what did you envision? How close did the actual wedding get to that vision? When I started planning our wedding, my original vision was “Fire and Ice.” I’d say we accomplished that vision and more, adding touches of romanticism and edge. Our invitations set the tone: a gorgeous clear acrylic print with embellished gold lettering and black envelope featuring a black crocodile leather and envelope liner by Penn and Paperie, based out of New Jersey. Our reception did not have a head table or centerpieces, rather, we had 22 round tables, each dressed with single white long-stem roses in glass vases and real candles encased in glass tubes and lucite candelabras. The candles reflected off the class tubes and then off one another, so it seemed as if there were twice as many candles as there actually were. We had crushed-white linens, lucite chairs, and the most breathtaking wedding cake you’ll ever see.
What were a few things that were important to you as a couple to include (or not include) in the wedding? As a couple, it was important to us not to have a first-look prior to the ceremony. We both wanted our first look to be when they opened the doors at the church. I am so happy we stood firm on that decision, because it was such a magical moment. We locked eyes throughout my entire walk down the aisle, and we both had tears of joy.
How did you decide on the location? Since I am from St. Louis, and it’s also where we met, we decided to get married there. Also, my favorite Ritz Carlton is the one in St. Louis; there is something comfortable and magical about it. The service is always impeccable, and the unique and distinct smell will change your mood for the better instantaneously.
“When the day arrived, it was truly a five-star luxury experience. The service was outstanding, the gowns were insanely gorgeous (even more so in person.”
Let's talk dress! Give us all the deets!
To be honest, the most important decision on my wedding day, other than my groom, was my dress. It was exceedingly important to have a dress that was unlike any other. I had been browsing for dresses for years, and the first dress I ever fell in love with was a Berta (a good 10 years before I got engaged ☺). I studied Berta as a designer and defined her as a true creative genius with a keen attention to detail and impeccable taste. She stunned me more and more every season with each new line of evening gowns and wedding dresses.
After our engagement, I kept my eyes peeled for a trunk show near my area in South Florida. Finally, Berta came to Chic Parisian in Miami, so I excitedly scheduled an appointment for my sister and I to visit the luxury bridal boutique. When the day arrived, it was truly a five-star luxury experience. The service was outstanding, the gowns were insanely gorgeous (even more so in person), and we had the honor of meeting Nir Moscovich, who was hosting the 2019 Berta Athens collection trunk show. As we were guided to through the line-up of delicate hand-made dresses which were glistening under the studio lighting, I found it hard to contain myself when I saw ‘my dress’; I reached for it, knew it was the one, and immediately began to tear up at its beauty as it danced effortlessly from its hanger. It was the only dress I tried on that day (even though people would think I am nuts for not trying on every single Berta dress possible!), but I knew I didn’t need to. I felt like the dress was made for me: a mermaid-style, with a plunging v-neckline and backless scoop back with sheer long sleeves and beaded appliques with a badass, cathedral-length cape overlay as my “veil”.
“It was the only dress I tried on that day (even though people would think I am nuts for not trying on every single Berta dress possible!), but I knew I didn’t need to. I felt like the dress was made for me.”
How did your family, friends, etc play into your wedding planning and wedding day? My two sisters and my mom were my wedding planning squad. Who needs a wedding planner when you have a team comprised of:
A mother who is incredibly imaginative and can design anything on a dime
A younger sister who is the most organized, thoughtful, true voice of reason in any setting
An older sister who is a visionary and an insane cake artist
The three of them assured me when I felt fickle; they brought me ideas when I needed them, and assisted in executing every last detail. Flawlessly.
What's one specific memory you have from your wedding day that you don't think you'll ever forget.
The moments right before the doors opened in the church. Everyone wanted to rush in opening the doors for ‘the bride’s grand entrance’, but I insisted we take a few extra seconds to pause. I absorbedly listened to our captivating string quartet play Gabriel’s Oboe; I peeked through the tiny gap of the massive wooden doors at an attempt to wrap my mind around how blessed I felt that all the people we love the most, purposefully gathered together in one space to celebrate Kevin and me. Finally, I caught a tiny glimpse of my exceptionally handsome groom (who was wondering what the heck was taking me so long!) and that moment, I was resoundingly sure that I was making absolute best decision of my life.
How did you decide on your hair and makeup look? I really did not decide until the day of which, I know, was a bit dicey. I did a ‘first look’ with my grandmother two days before my wedding, and two things you should know about my grandma:
She has exquisite taste
She has no problem telling anyone the truth; the good, the bad, and the ugly
When I did my first look with her, I shared with her that I planned to wear my hair down. She strongly suggested I wear my hair up, so as to show off my neckline and cape for the ceremony. So, I did what grandma advocated! I have always been a bit hesitant with updo’s because they are so darn risky (I am very comfortable in my long, wavy curls), especially since I did not want to try any updo whatsoever during my H&M trial!
Was there one vendor you used that you wish everyone knew about? I was lucky enough to have TWO vendors I wish everyone knew about!!
Cake Artist: Cara Albertelli, owner of In Love in Food in Naples, FL:
Cara is an incredibly talented cake artist and also happens to be my sister (I know, I hit the jackpot with her). Cara is located in Naples, FL, and managed to design, fly, and execute my absolutely stunning wedding cake in St. Louis, Missouri. The entire progression of building this cake was kept from me so as to surprise me on our wedding day. I was purposely kept in the dark throughout my cake’s conceptual stages, including the flavor selection and final decorative elements. Most brides would find that stressful; we have a vision and our wedding is an investment of so much time and money, but I had trust that my cake artist knew the elegant and edgy, one-of-a-kind vibe I was going for even when I did not know how to put it into words for her. The moment the cake was revealed, both Kevin and I were shocked. We walked into our reception to see our dazzling 9 tier, gravity-defying, floating wedding cake with a ‘funfetti’ interior (another sneaky surprise in itself as funfetti is my favorite cake flavor). Our wedding cake was, deservingly, the focal point of the room. It had its own gathering of admirers at any given moment throughout the entire evening while the candle-lit room made our cake, which was dripping in crystals, dance. The visual concept of the cake elevated the beauty of the candle, lucite, and white rose-filled ballroom. I knew the cake would be incredible, but it was better than incredible; it was a unique and stunning work of art that captured my personality and vision of “fire and ice” for this once in a lifetime occasion.
Hair and Makeup Artist: Christine Diaz with Amped Artistry in Naples, FL.
Here is what I will say about Christine: she is a master of her craft. But that is an understatement. She has the gift of being a well-rounded, service-oriented artist with an eye for beauty. I threw Christine for a loop on my wedding day: my hair was the wrong color (she toned my hair after our rehearsal dinner at midnight, the night before the wedding to save me from any unnecessary stress), I changed my mind last minute and wanted an updo (thanks to Queen Grandma), and changed my idea for makeup…all within 24 hours of walking down the aisle. None of that seemed to phase Christine in the slightest. Christine also made me feel secure, confident, and supported, which is something I did not know I needed on my wedding day. With so many opinions and emotions, she was exactly what I needed: peace of mind that she would not let me walk dawn that aisle without feeling perfect. That is something you cannot put a dollar value on.
All that being said, put these two artists together you have the MVPs of your wedding day. These two do not come as a duo, but, they really are an unmatched pair. I honestly did not know how much I would need both of them, until I did. If you were to ask me where I got the most value from my investment, it would be hiring Cara and Christine. These two women are so special and made the ultimate difference on my wedding day.
Where did you go on your honeymoon and what was the best part? Islamorada
We decided on a low-key, easy and relaxing honeymoon, and all signs pointed to The Moorings Village in Islamorada (yes, where Bloodline was filmed). It was the most perfect honeymoon for us. Coming off our wedding week in chilly St. Louis, one quick flight and short drive to 78-degree weather in Islamorada was exactly what we needed. Honestly, the best part was simply being together without distractions; no work emails (it felt so good to turn off my notifications!), having coffee in the morning on the front porch with the palm trees, a quiet beach, and the ocean as our daily view; quiet dinners with sunset views and healthy, fresh food; I could go on and on, but the full vibe was exactly perfect.
Wedding Planner Ashley Weds in Berta
We wanted to chat with Ashley a bit more about her wedding for a few reasons:
1.) she looked STUNNING in her Berta gown
2. she is a wedding planner so she can bring a different perspective than many of our brides who are new to the wedding process.
Tell us your love story! How did you meet and how did you get to a proposal?
Aidan and I met on Tinder actually! We both swiped right and he had a quirky pickup line about drinking wine, so he instantly got brownie points. Our first date was at a Wine Loft in our hometown, Naples, Fl. You know when they say, “You know, when you know?”, well we definitely knew instantly that God had brought the two of us together for a reason. A year and a half later Aidan proposed in front of our family and closest friends at Hamilton Harbor Yacht Club in Naples, FL., it was such a dream!
When you started planning your wedding what did you envision? How close did the actual wedding get to that vision?
My sister and I own a Wedding and Event planning company in Naples, FL, so its both a blessing and curse to plan your own wedding with ALL the different ideas and trends that go on in the industry. We had always had a vision of exactly what we wanted. All of our family and closest friends, a romantic ceremony and reception setting and an amazing band! How close did we get to that actual vision? I think we were spot on!
What were a few things that were important to you as a couple to include (or not include) in the wedding?
It was very very important to Aidan and I that we had an Unplugged Ceremony. That is something that we both discussed right away after getting engaged. Ensuring that everyone was present at that moment was very important to us. We never liked the idea of all your guests having their phones, ipads, etc in their faces.
How did you decide on the location?
Naples, FL is the only place that has 2 Ritz Carlton hotels. One of The Ritz Carlton’s is right on the beach here and it was a no brainer that this was such a beautiful venue for our wedding. The Ritz has an in-house team that makes your wedding planning process seamless!
“I think I need to come up with a couple good excuses to put the dress back on?! Chic Parisien made everything so stress-free! ”
Let's talk dress! Give us all the deets!
BERTA! BERTA! BERTA! Oh my gosh, my dress was such a dream! I had always dreamed about my wedding dress having all the SPARKLE and let me tell you that is exactly what my dress was, SPARKLE SPARKLE SPARKLE. I think I need to come up with a couple good excuses to put the dress back on?! Chic Parisien made everything so stress-free!
How did your family, friends, etc play into your wedding planning and wedding day?
My sister and I own the Wedding Planning company together, so she was a huge part of our wedding planning. My family and I have always been so close-knit, so everything that involved wedding planning, they were always a part of! There was not a detail that they did not know about!
What's one specific memory you have from your wedding day that you don't think you'll ever forget.
One specific memory from our wedding day that we will never forget is having to move our Ceremony from outdoors to indoors due to the rain that day. We had a cold front move through right around our Ceremony time and had to move to our plan B the day before the wedding. Let me tell you……our plan B was SUCH A DREAM. We had the room pipe and draped, all the florals, and tons of candlelight to make it super romantic and intimate and we also had The Ritz include a stage for Aidan and me to exchange our vows on! It was truly breathtaking.
How did you decide on your hair and makeup look?
I knew for sure that I wanted my hair to be down, and to go with the beautiful dress I wanted to keep it more of a classic look. I didn’t want to look back at my wedding pictures in 10 years and say “What in the world was I thinking?!”. I wanted to keep my makeup classic as well, I am definitely not a fan of smokey eyes, so I decided on a more natural look and added a little blush on the eyes to go with that.
Was there one vendor you used that you wish everyone knew about?
VIDEOGRAPHY!!! Our day went by so fast and we are so excited to know that we have a video to relive our magical day over and over again. We used Fidelis Films based out of Naples, FL and they were so amazing. We can’t wait to see our video!!
Where did you go on your honeymoon and what was the best part?
We went to St. George Grenada! We stayed at the Sandals Resort there and it was absolutely beautiful! The fresh salt air and the clear blue water was so Zen! The best part of our honeymoon was being able to do absolutely nothing! To just relax and listen to the waves crash every day, someone bringing you your Pina Coladas and having no worry in the world Whew! I’m really missing that right now!
Vesna & Kenneth's Intimate Sunday Family Gathering Wedding
Tell us your love story! How did you meet and how did you get to a proposal?
We initially met briefly at work while in Miami because we work for the same company but in different offices. Two years later I like to think fate brought us back together when his office relocated to West Palm Beach and shortly after the new office in West Palm opened I was offered a job there as well. When it was announced I was going to be working in the same office as him, he asked me out to lunch to celebrate, not to be corny, but after that first lunch date the rest was history!
Six months later, on Valentine's Day 2019 he asked me to marry him. I had an inkling it might happen on Valentine's Day, but we were together all day and nothing! So, I convinced myself it was just in my head and it wouldn't be happening that day, just as I was sure that there would be no proposal, he caught me off guard towards the end of the night and said "can I ask you a question?" I unassumingly replied, "sure". And that's when he asked me if I would spend the rest of my life with him. I, of course said, yes.
Turns out that a just a few weeks before the proposal, he had asked my dad for my hand in marriage. He asked my dad while they were out shooting, so he likes to joke that he really loves me because he asked my dad for permission while my dad had a gun in his hand.
When you started planning your wedding what did you envision? How close did the actual wedding get to that vision?
I knew I wanted an outdoor wedding from the get go. I envisioned a daytime, garden party and it magically turned out to be everything I wanted and more.
What were a few things that were important to you as a couple to include (or not include) in the wedding?
I wanted it a small wedding, Kenny and I wanted it to intimate, and we ended up inviting family only. I grew up very close to my family and we had a tradition on Sunday's where all of us- aunts, uncles, and cousins, got together for lunch. Because of our Sunday tradition we had when we were all younger I wanted to recreate that for the wedding and decided on a Sunday garden party lunch theme.
How did you decide on the location?
At first I was stumped. There were so many beautiful venues from Miami to Jupiter to Naples, I couldn't decide. One of my friends had gotten married at The Addison in Boca Raton the year prior and recommended it. As soon as I went to my initial meeting and saw the beautiful courtyard and hundred year old Banyan trees I knew it was the spot.
Let's talk dress! Give us all the deets!
I am the world's biggest procrastinator, it totally admit it. I got engaged in February and wanted to get married in November but I didn't start planning until June. After picking the date (mind you I didn't have a venue at this point, I just picked a date and hoped whatever venue I picked would accommodate) my next stop was Chic Parisien. The wedding revolves around the dress after all, or at least in my mind it did.
My first wedding dress shop that I visited with my mom and soon to be mother-in-law was Chic Parisien. I went in with pictures of two Berta dresses that I loved. The Daphne dress was the second dress I tried on and I loved it. But I thought this is too easy, NO WAY it's this easy. After trying on more dresses at Chic Parisien, visiting several more shops, and trying on a myriad of dresses, I came back a week later and said the Daphne dress was my dress. It was just the right amount of classic with the A-line shape but had a touch of modern and dare I say sexy with the illusion top which covered me in all the right places.
“I came back a week later and said the Daphne dress was my dress. It was just the right amount of classic with the A-line shape but had a touch of modern and dare I say sexy with the illusion top which covered me in all the right places. ”
How did your family, friends, etc play into your wedding planning and wedding day?
My mom and mother-in-law were such a big part of picking my dress and I'll always treasure that memory.
My friend recommended the venue I ended up choosing so I'm so thankful to her for her input.
Although the wedding was family only, Kenny and I shared a mutual friend, Melissa, who happened to be a notary. We met Melissa when we first started dating so she saw us from first date to engagement. We thought that who better to perform the ceremony than someone who saw our relationship grow, no one else could make it so personal. So we asked her to officiate the ceremony; she incorporated our faith, our story, and quite a bit of humor (she's hilarious).
What's one specific memory you have from your wedding day that you don't think you'll ever forget.
We decided on doing first look pictures and it's the best decision we made, the look on his face when I tapped him on the shoulder and he turned around to look at me was one of my favorite moments. The look in his eyes reaffirmed that I was the love of his life, just like he is the love of my life.
How did you decide on your hair and makeup look?
Our friend Melissa who officiated the ceremony is not only hilarious but opinionated as well...and thank goodness for that! I couldn't decide: hair up? hair down? half up, half down? She explained to me that there was no way I could leave my hair down and cover "that fabulous back on your dress". It was decided, low bun it would be. I wanted my makeup to accentuate my look but I didn't want anything overwhelming since it was a daytime wedding, rosy and dewey is what I was going for.
Was there one vendor you used that you wish everyone knew about?
The Addison itself was amazing and they provided the food as well. I'm the type of person who lives to eat, not eats to live, so food was extremely important to me and man was the food delicious! They made everything about the planning process easy which for the girl who dreaded planning and was the biggest procrastinator was a huge plus.
Starfish Photography was also great. They made me feel comfortable and captured all our special moments.
Our Invite Only Influencer Preview of the Berta Napoli Collection
We invited three stylish women (whose Instagram’s we adore, obviously) to visit the boutique before the official launch of the Berta Napoli Collection Trunk Show to try on the gowns and take some photos to inspire our future #realchicbrides. Each had a distinct personal style (two were engaged!) and we were thrilled to see these chic dresses come to life when they were put on by these chic new friends!
Check out https://www.instagram.com/misstarynwalker/, https://www.instagram.com/sherramichelle/?hl=en, https://www.instagram.com/vickyjustiz/?hl=en for more images and of course, https://www.instagram.com/berta/?hl=en .
La Vita e Bella in Capri! A #realchicbride wears Berta at her swoony Italian wedding.
Tell us your love story! How did you meet and how did you get to a proposal?
Mike and I met in Miami through a mutual friend I went to college with. I had been living in Miami for eight years at the time and was ready for a new experience. I had decided I would move to NYC to be closer to friends and family but hit it off with Mike a month before I was scheduled to move. I followed my gut and put my move on hold and it ended up being one of my best decisions to date.
Mike proposed about three years later when we were visiting my family in Rhode Island one summer weekend. We were running towards my favorite lookout spot over the beach and once we got to a bench there he faked a leg cramp. Next thing I knew he was down on one knee!
When you started planning your wedding what did you envision? How close did the actual wedding get to that vision?
To be honest, I actually had no idea what I envisioned for our wedding when we first got engaged. We were open to everywhere from Miami where we live to Rhode Island where I grew up and Mike has family, and finally ended up choosing Italy. Once we got our planner (Federica Nascimben with the Italian Wedding Event – she was fantastic) – everything kind of happened organically and she really helped us shape our vision.
What were a few things that were important to you as a couple to include (or not include) in the wedding?
We realized everyone would be taking a long trek to get to Capri (not the easiest little island to travel to) so we wanted our wedding to be super stress-free and just straight fun for everyone making the trip. That helped us prioritize having enough transportation and bars that no one was ever waiting for a ride or a drink the whole weekend!
How did you decide on the location?
Initially, we were trying to plan a wedding in Miami as we both live here and a lot of our friends do as well. It started becoming really stressful and I was having a hard time finding a venue that I loved enough to have it be super special and memorable.
Mike and I have always loved traveling and after a long conversation venting to one of my best friends about venue options, one night realized that a destination wedding was such a better fit for us. Being that Mike and I are both from Italian families and it’s one of our favorite places, we initially decided on Portofino as we had vacationed there the summer before and had such an amazing time. Federica, our planner, convinced us to look at Southern Italy after discussing the things that were important to us and really sold me on this “magical ocean location that was not your typical wedding venue.” That got me from the start and even looking at pictures of Lido Del Faro did not prepare me for how beautiful it was in person (which I didn’t see until the day I walked down the aisle)! I’ve always loved the ocean and was way more into cliffside beach club vibes than a more formal hotel-type setting.
The locations for the welcome party and brunch the day after were at Capri Palace and Il Ricco which Mike picked and they were just as incredible. And the best part about Italy was obviously that the food was insane at every venue!
Let's talk dress! Give us all the deets!
I think out of most every detail of my wedding the dress was the only one I was sure of from the very beginning! I’ve never been one to fantasize about a wedding growing up or look at wedding dresses, but I stumbled across Berta dresses on Instagram a few months before we got engaged. I actually have a picture of my dress in my phone from before we got engaged because I thought it was so different and beautiful. The week after I got engaged, being super excited and already thinking about trunk shows, I called Chic Parisien after finding out they were the only Miami bridal store that carried Berta to make an appointment for a trunk show I saw they were having a few months later. The lady on the phone told me that they were having the last trunk show of the 2018 F/W dresses the following weekend and why don’t I just come in then to try some on. I swore up and down I would not be buying a dress as I had gotten engaged about two weeks earlier at the time but once I tried this dress on it was a done deal.
How did your family, friends, etc play into your wedding planning and wedding day?
Luckily both our families were super excited once we decided on Italy and were very supportive during all the planning. That being said, I did easily figure out that while I am normally very indecisive and like to ask others’ opinions, for your wedding you really do just want to do what you and your husband want and I didn’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings by not taking their recommendations. For that reason, I mostly kept the planning between me, Mike and our planner.
On the day of the wedding, we both got ready and spent the day preparing with family and friends, and I also chose my parents’ wedding song to walk down the aisle to.
What's one specific memory you have from your wedding day that you don't think you'll ever forget.
That we all ended up in the pool at the venue for a pool party at the end of the night because it was so hot from all the dancing! Also, that I got my husband dance for the first (and probably last time) and I think he actually enjoyed himself!!!
How did you decide on your hair and makeup look?
I thought I knew what I wanted for both our welcome reception and the wedding (I experimented a few times during fittings to test out some different looks) but I changed both looks the day of with the hair and makeup team. I have to admit that’s mostly due to the heat because didn’t want to deal with any sort of down hairdo or pieces when it was so hot. It ended up being a great decision because we were all dripping sweat during the ceremony!
Was there one vendor you used that you wish everyone knew about?
I’m going to have to mention two. My photographer, Evan Rich Photography, I discovered when I was looking for venues in Miami. He had an Italian shoot on his site and was also another inspiration for choosing Italy because his pictures made it look absolutely dreamy. I loved his work but unfortunately, he was booked on all the dates I was looking at in Miami. When we decided on Italy, I was thrilled he would be able to make it. He and his wife were so amazing in every step of the wedding day. They really helped streamline the day and took the most beautiful pictures I could have asked for. Also, Mike hates taking pictures normally and I’ve never seen his teeth so much from him smiling as in all our wedding pictures.
Also, DJ Fabio Vuotto!!! DJ Fabio is the Capri resident DJ and he played all the music for our ceremony, reception and the day after brunch. I didn’t give him any recommendations other than the songs we walked out to for our ceremony and our first dance/father daughter/mother son dances. I figured if he was that good I should just trust his vibe and music judgment for the crowd and he was such a hit.
Where did you go on your honeymoon and what was the best part?
We left straight from our wedding to Switzerland and toured the country over the next week from Zurich to Lucerne and ended in St. Moritz. We stayed at some beautiful hotels and took some amazing hikes and nature tours but the best part was being so well-rested by the time we returned home to Miami that I went straight into work the next day feeling like a million bucks! Switzerland was extremely relaxing which was very much needed after going straight from a bachelorette weekend in the Amalfi coast to the wedding week.
Photos by Evan Rich Photography
Dress by Berta from Chic Parisien
Chic Ambassador: Caro Pozo
Caro Pozo is a local actress (soon to be an international superstar, we just know it), a creative and a future #realchicbride! We’re proud to announce that she’s also our newest Chic Ambassador.
This bright personality and gorgeous girl came to play a bit of dress up with us during last week’s Berta Trunk Show. She was the perfect model for this ultra-chic collection from Berta featuring sexy shapes and silhouettes alongside textured, detailed dresses, always with the very best handcrafted work and fabrics.
Caro, because she’s a doll like that, thought you al might benefit from a bit about her wedding dress shopping experience and tips. Not only does she walk you through her own personal process, but in coming back and hanging out with us a bit more she’s picked up some pretty great ideas about how to make the most of your experience!
Read Caro’s blog post here on her blog Blonde2Brunette. Follow her on Instagram here @blonde2brunette or here @caropozo. And follow along with her creative activities at @thesugarcottage_.
Berta Features #REALCHICBRIDE Crystal Smith Wamble
Berta has featured our bride, Crystal Smith Wamble, and her chic wedding at the very unique Oxford Exchange. She is positively glowing and we’re so thrilled to see her featured on the Berta blog that we wanted to share with all of you!
BERTA Retailer: Chic Parisien
Venue: Le Meridien
Photographer: Madison Hope & Co.
Bride: Crystal Wamble
Groom: Will Wamble
New Berta Arrivals From The Miami Collection
The Berta Miami Collection has arrived at Chic Parisien, Berta’s only Florida retailer!
Brides, make your appointment now to try on this very special collection inspired by our home city’s tropical beauty and sexy sense of style. All the classic Berta signatures are present in this collection, as always, plus we have the added touch of a bit of Miami-flair!
Whether you’re looking for a mermaid, a-line or ballgown, this stylish collection has the shape for you with the glamorous details you’ve been envisioning for your wedding dress.
A Chic Miami-Themed Soiree for the Berta Miami Collection
Berta Miami Collection comes to Chic Parisien - and we celebrated with a party in chic Miami style!
We were thrilled to welcome some of the Miami bridal industry’s brightest stars to Chic Parisien for a celebration of the Berta Miami Collection. From stationary artists to photographers, planners and bakers, we toasted with fruity mojitos by Craft Cartel to this chic new collection inspired by our hometown.
Vanity Projects was set up to transform our nails with Berta-inspired nail art - our guests could pick from rhinestone designs pulled from the motif of our favorite gowns from the collection, an art deco print or a palm frond! Everyone left with a bit more sparkle than a basic mani!
Veronica from Anthology transformed the space into a tropical oasis - we loved it so much that we kept it up through the weekend. Brides who had scheduled trunk show appointments to shop the collection were in for a tropical treat when they walked in!
The whole store was glowing under the pink light of our new neon sign! We can’t wait to see all the photos our smiling brides are going to take underneath it.
A very special thank you to Enuel Viera who snapped these photos for us and captured the magic of the evening! It was a night of Cuban food from Versailles (what could be more Miami?!), great conversation, amazing connections and chic tropical tunes!
Berta Miami x Chic Parisien Preview
When Berta has names their newest collection after your city - you throw a party! Any excuse for a party, right?
It was with great pleasure that we welcomed the newest collection by Berta, Berta Miami, to Chic Parisien. We invited industry friends, including many who we've long known on Instagram but hadn't had the pleasure to meet in person, for a night at the boutique showcasing the Berta gowns and unveiling our new photo wall! We're still swooning over the addition of this floral wall and our new XoXo, Chic Parisien neon sign.
Make your appointment now to shop with us and take your photo in front of the sign when you say yes to the dress!
PHOTOS BY ENUEL VIERA PHOTOGRAPHY FOR CHIC PARISIEN
