DFW343's 3/21/2010 Wedding Review Part 2(lots of pics)- Westbury Manor, Modern Wedding Photography, FM Entertainment, Elena Henry Video, Bridal Reflections, Bridal Elegance, and more!

(see my first review for pre-wedding stuff)
More advice:
Deep condition your hair once a week 3 months before.
Take extra vitamin C and Airborne two weeks before.
Drink lots of water and consume unbloating foods.
Make your fitting as close to date as possible; you will probably lose weight. I lost a ton from stress!
Nod your head even if you don’t agree, do what you want later.
If you don’t have a huge wedding party and can’t host a BP thingy, have a tea party in your house and serve finger sandwiches with specialty drinks. Went over well for me ?
Make sure the person in charge of pics understands they have to take 15 min out of their time.
LITTLE SNAFUS WILL HAPPEN.
WHO CARES???
Worry about the big stuff, ladies!

Tuxes, VIP, Massapequa-A+
We wanted some brown in the tuxes. This match up was on display and it was a no brainer. They were friendly, fast, and efficient. We got them for H, his Dad, Best Man and ring bearer.

MOH Dresses, Bridal Reflections, Massapequa A+
Picture it:
Your Grand Mother, Aunt, and future Step Mother are making you try on dresses for your Father's wedding. You are 11 years old. You have a twin. You both want different dresses. You are tired and by now can't stand all three women in the room.
Then, magically, someone in the universe sprinkles fairy dust and Glinda, the good witch enters the dressing room. Her name is Michelle and all is right with the world.
You can finally text your friends again.
Obviously, this was written from my girls’ point of view but I have to say they were accommodating. My advice to you and I will say this again and again, too many people complain WITHOUT opening their mouths. You only get what you want if you ask! They doubted I could get a certain color and even my MIL said don’t ask but I did. They called the company and WALLA! I even ran into a color problem on one of the sashes and they fixed it IMMEDIATLEY. Alterations were great too.
Shoes, Sandy’s- A+
I wasn’t there but I heard they were great. Looked good…
Jewelry, You and I, Manhattan-A+
Cheap and looked good. Cheap because they are 12 and we have no idea where the stuff is as of today!


drumroll please…
1st dress, Bridal Elegance, Dix Hills. Dere Kiang (House of Wu) A++++
Like, my ring, no freaking clue what I wanted. For someone so up to date and fashion savvy, I didn’t want a foo foo STRAPLESS dress. No stuff head to toe, but nothing too sexy (says the woman who wears boobie shirts to bars). I was a firm believer after seeing my friends’ old wedding pics, go traditional to transcend time. This is just me.
I had a dress that my SIL did not wear when she broke off her first engagement. It’s a Pronovias. I was going to take it in and remove the sleeves she put on. It was 4 sizes too big so I was recommended to Phyllis.
The boning and construction on this dress (it is no joke the details on this dress and it was EXPENSIVE) made it so she would have to take the whole dress apart and reconstruct. I figured at that price, I could get a new dress.
I told the sales girl, Susie (who I LOVE), find me a dress not more than 1k.
This was the 4th dress I tried on. Guess what? Head to toe detail, A line, corset back, STRAPLESS (GASP!). But I just got that “feeling”.
I got to visit my dress whenever I wanted. I was very specific with my alterations (which are pricey here but worth it). Again, I OPENED MY MOUTH. I think Phyllis just gets a bad rap for being very honest and to the point. No BS here. BUT I OPENED MY MOUTH.
In the end, they did a great job. My only problem was I think the length was taken in a bit too short because they didn’t wait until very last fitting. This is because I lost weight and therefore tied the corset the tightest it could go and it pulled up dress slightly. Not a big deal but girls, ask to wait!
BTW: This dress is for sale!


2nd dress, Ebay, Jessica McClintock-A+
So not only did I get a first dress so not me...I got a second (faint). I did this for two reasons. One, I wanted traditional for pics but knew H wanted to see me in a sexier number too. Two, I was going to sing to H at reception. I could not breathe right in a corset top. I also know myself and would ruin the dress. Yup, tore inner lining with my shoes in second dress. Thank God it was 75 bucks only! But….
Alterations, Manny’s Forest Hills-A++++
Manny has been taking in my clothes for over 10 years. I heart him. He took it in once. I kept losing weight (nerves) so twice. I then made him make it sweetheart neckline and add a shoulder strap. A week before the wedding, I needed a third taking in. He didn’t flinch. He did the strap perfect! And…
Feather clip for dress, Etsy seller VieModerne-A
I added the feather on one shoulder. I guess this dress is now one of kind? But not much effort went into it. Just imagination. It’s amazing what one or two changes can do. The feather was of good quality but with all the hugging, it kept moving and a feather came out (I since glues it and it looks perfect).
Dress before on previous owner:



Shoes for first dress, my closet- A+++
My Stevie Nicks velvet boots. I had these since 1997 and swore I’d get married in them. I got my bouquet to match the boots specifically.

Shoes for second dress, Zappos- A+
I wanted a pair of silver shoes to wear again. These had hearts on bottom so I got them. They were not only comfy but looked great!!!!


Veil and hair comb, Barron’s –A+++
Patient was Barron’s. I didn’t want a fancy or two tiered veil but MIL was buying and insisted I get the best. 140 dollars later….I also was wearing a veil I never thought I would wear!!!!! The comb was simple yet elegant (for sale too!) Clip was fabulous (also for sale).

Bracelet and 2nd dress earrings, Prima Donna, Manhattan-A+
I did not want to spend a lot. This bracelet got a lot of compliments and was borrowed after wedding. I am wearing both again!

Earrings for first dress, Nova Fashion Jewelry, Manahattan- A+
I wanted clip-ons. The man suggested on long ones for me since I wasn’t wearing a tiara or necklace. They were perfect and I got a lot of oohs and ahhs. They killed me they were so heavy but worth it! Will wear them again! Plus they were very inexpensive!


Mother nature- A+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
I wanted to make out with the MN that day! All of the Sundays in March rained badly but, my day and it was 70 degrees! I was thrilled for no frizz and outdoor cocktail hour!!!!! All the peacocks there were out and about which made for great scenery. I was beyond thrilled to take pictures outside since WM has the most amazing grounds.



Modern Wedding Photography, Denise Chastain- A+++++++++++
This is where I personally spent most of my budget. I wanted a more photo journalistic approach to my pics. No fancy effects or poses. I wanted my book to tell the story of the day…and that’s what I GOT! I could not be happier. Denise cares and is patient. She will do whatever it takes to get that shot and end product. EXTERMELY pleased with my proofs, book, slideshow, enlarged canvas, and she did a multi media slideshow with sound as well. Booked her on spot too!



Video, Elena Henry- A
I booked video two weeks before my wedding, I changed my mind (obviously) and wanted something simple. Just to capture day…and that’s what I got! She also did a little recap thingie of me singing to H along with a disc of some photos she took. How great is that? Here is one of her shots.

Make up, Vesta Goodarz- A-
I love Vesta and will probably book her to do my head shots. The reason why there is a – is not 100% her fault. I think there was a lack of communication which lead her to be on time but at wrong place. Since I lost that half hour and felt RUSHED (I was way behind on pics b/c of this), I feel my make up wasn’t 100% only because I do make up part time and very picky. I thought she did my airbrush and eye shadow perfect. I felt like my eyelashes were a little off and the blush was too dark. Had I had the time to really LOOK, I could of fixed it. Would I hire her again if I knew? YES! But I would of communicated to the T. Advice: Even if repetitive, give details over and over and make sure they get it after. She also did my MIL, SIL and SD’s make up. Totally satisfied but I thought they took too long. Partly cuz they talk too much lol and Vesta is a doll. Ps: she called me before wedding and told me to take vit C etc...she really cares!

Hair for bride, H’s cousin- A++++
H’s cousin does hair professionally in Bayside and is getting married in September! At my trial I thought the curls were too tight. I prayed that on actual day, she would understand what I said after trial. AND SHE DID! I was very happy and she was done so quick! Advice: sometimes you don’t need a second trial...just say what you didn’t like at first. My hair stayed ALL NIGHT…even looked good next day lol



Hair for “BP”, my hair cutter Corrine- A++++
Corrine is a family friend of H’s and works in Rockville Center. She’s been cutting my hair since I met H and his family as well. We did a trial for my MIL and SDs which was great. She is very aiming to please. Day of she did a FABULOUS job!

Flowers, Flowers by Edwards, Massapequa- A++++++
I showed them a pic of what I wanted and the color of my boots. My bouquet was perfect and eye popping. I forgot about bling and she called me and asked ME if I wanted it! My girl’s bouquets were great as well as the boutineers. I HIGHLY recommend them!
Bouquet charm, You and I, Manhattan, A+
Love this place!

Centerpieces and Bird Cage, Nicolette’s Massapequa-A+++
Ok so we did our own centerpieces due to depleted funds. I am going to be totally honest here. Me and H were like 85% happy … no fault but our own. We kept re-thinking the colors etc… However, people can’t stop talking about them and now want to order them! Even WM took pics and couldn’t believe it! When I made DJ announce they could take them home, guests were scrambling! I want to give props for the women that work at Nicolette’s for arranging and putting them together. They are so crafty and I would recommend them to others! I was very pleased with cage (sorry, sold).


Music, DJ, FM Entertainment Frank-A+++++
Frank did exactly what we wanted. Down to things I requested he NOT do. He played the best stuff and had the crowd dancing. When it came time to sing to H, he hooked up the sound just right! The only problem was it was so nice out, everyone towards middle of reception was outside! Not his fault and I felt bad lol As long as my guests had fun….

Officant- William Corbett-A+
On time, thorough and even added vows for me to say “I do” to say to my SDs.

Hotel, La Quinta-A-
I wanted something big and not too fancy due to monetary reasons. But I needed a big suite for an after party. LAQ is clean and friendly. They got a – for one reason. The day I looked and booked, manager and group rate director were great. The group director who took over was very nice but kept saying they would have champagne and chocolates for us when we got in night before. I called when it wasn’t there and they said oh we have it for your actual wedding day so it’s there when you come back. Never came. Not a biggie. But just saying…All in all, we were loud and nobody complained. My guests were happy too! Us at end of night:

S&G Limo-A+
They had to wait due to me running late. I had to pay extra...totally understandable and was told that. But me and H were going to WM together and only needed a town car. They sent a LIMO instead! NO extra cost!
I use them a lot and highly recommend them!

Minimoon-Milliken Creek, Napa , CA-A+++++++++++
Been here before with H and MC did not disappoint this time around! Romantic, lots of wine drinking, good restaurants, weather, etc. Great place to unwind after the whirlwind of a wedding!!!!!!!!! Going to Italy in January for a real trip!

Rock the Frock taken in Forest Hills Gardens/LIRR -FindOrion again. A++++
I am posting my posed and effects pics here cuz I couldn’t enjoy the first time posting on FB due to haters; so deal ? oh and did I mention the dress is dry cleaned and for sale????

Thank Yous/ Shutterfly- A+
I designed my own card and it came out great. I also took a pic of our rings against the invite to include on design (was running too late to do day of) and it came out pretty decent!

Re: DFW343's 3/21/2010 Wedding Review Part 2(lots of pics)- Westbury Manor, Modern Wedding Photography, FM Entertainment, Elena Henry Video, Bridal Reflections, Bridal Elegance, and more!

FANTASTIC REVIEW!!!

I loved your centerpieces, flowers, makeup, hair, lol the list goes on!

You are one beautiful bride and question - do you ever take a bad picture???

Re: DFW343's 3/21/2010 Wedding Review Part 2(lots of pics)- Westbury Manor, Modern Wedding Photography, FM Entertainment, Elena Henry Video, Bridal Reflections, Bridal Elegance, and more!

Beautiful review! You looked absolutely stunning!!

I'm in love with your second dress and I can't believe your price! Your alterations made it perfect! Congrats again!!!

Re: DFW343's 3/21/2010 Wedding Review Part 2(lots of pics)- Westbury Manor, Modern Wedding Photography, FM Entertainment, Elena Henry Video, Bridal Reflections, Bridal Elegance, and more!

EXCELLENT REVIEW - THANK YOU FOR POSTING

Re: DFW343's 3/21/2010 Wedding Review Part 2(lots of pics)- Westbury Manor, Modern Wedding Photography, FM Entertainment, Elena Henry Video, Bridal Reflections, Bridal Elegance, and more!

Wow! I totally love your review! Everything looked great. Very beautiful bride!

Re: DFW343's 3/21/2010 Wedding Review Part 2(lots of pics)- Westbury Manor, Modern Wedding Photography, FM Entertainment, Elena Henry Video, Bridal Reflections, Bridal Elegance, and more!

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Posted by mybabylovesmoi

FANTASTIC REVIEW!!!

I loved your centerpieces, flowers, makeup, hair, lol the list goes on!

You are one beautiful bride and question - do you ever take a bad picture???

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thanks but yes I do take a bad pic:

Re: DFW343's 3/21/2010 Wedding Review Part 2(lots of pics)- Westbury Manor, Modern Wedding Photography, FM Entertainment, Elena Henry Video, Bridal Reflections, Bridal Elegance, and more!

I love your pictures!!!!! Great review. Love the Rock the Frock shots. So cute that you added to your vows with your SDs in mind!

Re: DFW343's 3/21/2010 Wedding Review Part 2(lots of pics)- Westbury Manor, Modern Wedding Photography, FM Entertainment, Elena Henry Video, Bridal Reflections, Bridal Elegance, and more!

AMAZING!!!! Everything was amazing!!!

Re: DFW343's 3/21/2010 Wedding Review Part 2(lots of pics)- Westbury Manor, Modern Wedding Photography, FM Entertainment, Elena Henry Video, Bridal Reflections, Bridal Elegance, and more!

YAY!!! GREAT review!!! I loved reading it!! You look amazing! Such a beautiful bride! Congratulations!

Re: DFW343's 3/21/2010 Wedding Review Part 2(lots of pics)- Westbury Manor, Modern Wedding Photography, FM Entertainment, Elena Henry Video, Bridal Reflections, Bridal Elegance, and more!

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE your pics, cannot stop saying that. Great review and the CPs beautiful. I had to read it twice.

Re: DFW343's 3/21/2010 Wedding Review Part 2(lots of pics)- Westbury Manor, Modern Wedding Photography, FM Entertainment, Elena Henry Video, Bridal Reflections, Bridal Elegance, and more!

can i just say i LOVE this:
Picture it:
Your Grand Mother, Aunt, and future Step Mother are making you try on dresses for your Father's wedding. You are 11 years old. You have a twin. You both want different dresses. You are tired and by now can't stand all three women in the room.
Then, magically, someone in the universe sprinkles fairy dust and Glinda, the good witch enters the dressing room. Her name is Michelle and all is right with the world.
You can finally text your friends again.

and I love the review you gave on bridal elegance, thats where I got my dress from.. they are all DEAD honest and I LOVE that about them...

LOVE the 2nd dress's make over

everything looks GORGEOUS! i love love love your cake and CPs!
and I really wish I would have seen your pictures at forest hills gardens... that place looks gorgeous, but i've never heard of them... oh well, too late now.

CONGRATULATIONS AGAIN! sounds like your day was magical!

Re: DFW343's 3/21/2010 Wedding Review Part 2(lots of pics)- Westbury Manor, Modern Wedding Photography, FM Entertainment, Elena Henry Video, Bridal Reflections, Bridal Elegance, and more!

You are BEAUTIFUL!!!!!!!!!!

Re: DFW343's 3/21/2010 Wedding Review Part 2(lots of pics)- Westbury Manor, Modern Wedding Photography, FM Entertainment, Elena Henry Video, Bridal Reflections, Bridal Elegance, and more!

yayyy love it! you make a GORGEOUSSS couple!!! woohooooo

Re: DFW343's 3/21/2010 Wedding Review Part 2(lots of pics)- Westbury Manor, Modern Wedding Photography, FM Entertainment, Elena Henry Video, Bridal Reflections, Bridal Elegance, and more!

Congrats!! i love the poses in those pics of you!

Re: DFW343's 3/21/2010 Wedding Review Part 2(lots of pics)- Westbury Manor, Modern Wedding Photography, FM Entertainment, Elena Henry Video, Bridal Reflections, Bridal Elegance, and more!

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Posted by Im_My_Own_Princess

can i just say i LOVE this:
Picture it:
Your Grand Mother, Aunt, and future Step Mother are making you try on dresses for your Father's wedding. You are 11 years old. You have a twin. You both want different dresses. You are tired and by now can't stand all three women in the room.
Then, magically, someone in the universe sprinkles fairy dust and Glinda, the good witch enters the dressing room. Her name is Michelle and all is right with the world.
You can finally text your friends again.

and I love the review you gave on bridal elegance, thats where I got my dress from.. they are all DEAD honest and I LOVE that about them...

LOVE the 2nd dress's make over

everything looks GORGEOUS! i love love love your cake and CPs!
and I really wish I would have seen your pictures at forest hills gardens... that place looks gorgeous, but i've never heard of them... oh well, too late now.

CONGRATULATIONS AGAIN! sounds like your day was magical!

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thanks..sent you FM!
I wish I knew how good the Gardens (I picked it cuz me and H had first date there!) came out in pics too. I would of totally did my engagement or pre shots there. I highly recommed that brides use that area. It's private property but no one bothers you. Everyone kept coming up to me saying congrats. I think people are just nice when you have dress on lol

Re: DFW343's 3/21/2010 Wedding Review Part 2(lots of pics)- Westbury Manor, Modern Wedding Photography, FM Entertainment, Elena Henry Video, Bridal Reflections, Bridal Elegance, and more!

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Posted by dfw343

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Posted by mybabylovesmoi

FANTASTIC REVIEW!!!

I loved your centerpieces, flowers, makeup, hair, lol the list goes on!

You are one beautiful bride and question - do you ever take a bad picture???

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thanks but yes I do take a bad pic:

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This is hysterical! you still look amazing even telling a dramatic story !!! hehehe

What a gorgeous bride!! DH IS ONE LUCK SON OF A GUN!

Re: DFW343's 3/21/2010 Wedding Review Part 2(lots of pics)- Westbury Manor, Modern Wedding Photography, FM Entertainment, Elena Henry Video, Bridal Reflections, Bridal Elegance, and more!

LOVE LOVE LOVE your pictures!!! Awesome looking wedding and you were a beautiful bride...even your 'bad pics' look fabulous! Congratulations

Re: DFW343's 3/21/2010 Wedding Review Part 2(lots of pics)- Westbury Manor, Modern Wedding Photography, FM Entertainment, Elena Henry Video, Bridal Reflections, Bridal Elegance, and more!

wow, what a great review!! you were such a gorgeous bride!

Re: DFW343's 3/21/2010 Wedding Review Part 2(lots of pics)- Westbury Manor, Modern Wedding Photography, FM Entertainment, Elena Henry Video, Bridal Reflections, Bridal Elegance, and more!

Thanks for the review! Everything looked BEAUTIFUL!!!!!!!!

Re: DFW343's 3/21/2010 Wedding Review Part 2(lots of pics)- Westbury Manor, Modern Wedding Photography, FM Entertainment, Elena Henry Video, Bridal Reflections, Bridal Elegance, and more!

love your reception dress!!! you totally rocked it!! your pics are great congrats!!