Tipper here! For most brides, the most important aspect of her wedding day (aside from the groom showing up) is her wedding dress. While it could cost a fortune, it doesn’t have to! Shop your local sample sales to find the best wedding dress for the best price! A sample sale in Birmingham, Michigan is where I scored my dream wedding dress: an ivory, French lace Monique Lhuillier. Originally priced around $4,000 US – I walked away with it for just over $1,000 US!

Monique Lhuillier "Elle" from Tipper's wedding
Photo by Stevie B. Photography

So, what is a sample sale?

Wedding dress retailers keep a stock of designer wedding dresses for their brides to try on during the discovery process. Once a bride chooses her perfect gown, the bridal consultant then orders the correct size for the big day – alterations are made and the sample goes back on the rack. If you keep a close eye on your bridal shops, they will occasionally run sample sales to savings-savvy brides.

While the savings can be well over 50% off for a designer wedding dress – some brides may cringe at the idea of a previously worn dress. Have no fear! Dry cleaning for wedding gowns range from $200 - $500 (US) for a professional service – depending on your wedding dress choice, you can still save a stash of cash with this option.

Get your arms wedding-dress ready with this easy fitness move. The best part is: you can do anywhere!

1. Find a sturdy table that can withstand your full body weight
2. Hang from the edge of the table with your arms fully extended and your knees bent at a 90-degree angle
3. Using the resistance of your body, lift your chest toward the table
4. Do 10 repetitions and repeat after a 60-second break
5. For a challenge: straighten your knees so your legs are fully extended

*Before trying any new physical activity, please consult with your doctor to make sure you are healthy enough for physical activity.

Look gorgeous on your big day! Watch as makeup artist and real-life blushing bride, Susannah, gives step-by-step instructions on how to achieve flawless destination wedding makeup from Sandals Royal Plantation in Ocho Rios, Jamaica.

She showcases three different styles: natural and polished (think Jennifer Aniston), shimmering and sparkly (think Jennifer Lopez), and classic sophisticated (think Elizabeth Hurley). 

Pantone just announced its 2012 Color of the Year. And the winner is... Tangerine Tango! This soft, yet vibrant color is perfect for destination brides.

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While the exact color may be a challenge to find – hues and shades of this yummy color are in no shortage! If Pantone’s Tangerine Tango has stolen your heart as it has mine, bring its flavor to your island wedding with delicate pinks, limey greens, soft greys and – of course- sandy tans! If you’re really feeling the island spirit – create a wedding cocktail to match!

Indulge in island inspiration...

This color pattern mimics the Caribbean sunset. Brilliant oranges, corals and tangerines make your wedding gown glow against the warm hues.

After the jump...  more Tangerine Tango destination wedding inspiration.

                            Rondoval Suite, Sandals Grande Saint Lucian Spa and Beach Resort

In the January 2012 issue of BRIDES Magazine, Sandals Grande Saint Lucian Spa & Beach Resort, and Beaches Turks & Caicos Resort Villages & Spa was mentioned as the ultimate resorts for romance with “all-inclusive awesomeness”! In fact, Sandals Resorts has held the honor of being voted Top Honeymoon Destination in the Caribbean for 2011! 

BRIDES Magazine, the #1 bridal publication in America, loves Sandals Resorts, and we love BRIDES!

If you have decided to share your destination wedding with friends and family, there are lots of ways to make your guests feel special and create those lasting memories! Here a few ideas to consider:

• Welcome them with beach bags filled with sunscreen, disposable cameras, bottled water, personalized flip flops, a map of fun things to do on island and a few island inspired snacks!
• Celebrate their arrival with a party in the sand and enjoy island inspired hors d'oeuvres and Caribbean Rum Punch!
• Arrange for a little family-friendly competition with a game of beach volleyball or pool basketball!
• Have a champagne filled pamper day at the spa
• Enjoy a  scenic round of golf
• Have an underwater adventure on a snorkeling trip
• Explore the island and the mesmerizing Caribbean sea on a Catamaran cruise

Speak to your personal wedding consultant to arrange for any or all of these activities.