Got an iPhone?

Then you’ve got a wedding-organizing super gadget in the palm of your hand. From dress shopping to guest-list-making to hunting for one-of-a-kind décor and accessory finds, our blog post tracks a few of the best wedding-related iPhone apps on the market.

A surprise proposal, a choreographed dance-off, a 250-guest celebration at The Parador, complete with candlelight, Pakistani delicacies, an orchid-topped Italian-cream cake and a ransomed pair of groom’s shoes—this was the wedding of Monizeh Qadir and Abbas Farooq Khan, and it was a beauty.

Nothing says romance like warm, flickering candlelight. And there’s no better way to add an elegant, intimate glow to your wedding than with beautiful candle centerpieces. We love the look of long, graceful tapers, like these pale pink beauties in simple glass sticks from Martha Stewart.

But in the event that your venue doesn’t allow open flame, you can go with lower-profile candles, like votives, which are perfect for runner-type centerpieces on long, rectangular dining tables—yet another sophisticated trend for 2010 receptions.

Your wedding gown is an essential purchase, but it’s just one part of your bridal attire. With the right footwear (peep-toe or slingback? kitten-heel or stiletto?), stunning jewelry (chandelier earrings? pendant necklace? pearls or diamonds?) and well-chosen extras like a beautiful veil or hair comb, your gown becomes a complete bridal ensemble, and you become a complete, and completely gorgeous, bride.

Choosing accessories can be a tricky business, so before you start to stress about accessorizing your dress, visit our listings of Houston’s best boutiques for accessories and shoes. You’ll find all the help you need to pull together your perfect wedding-day look!

Jim Gray, catering manager
The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa

With a background in front-office hotel management and a passion for parties, Jim Gray couldn’t have been more thrilled when he landed his first catering-department job in a Houston hotel in 1995. Two years later, Gray got a job at The Houstonian, and has been there, helping brides turn their wedding fantasies into reality, ever since.

Why such dedication? “I can’t imagine making my work home anywhere else,” the catering manager says. “The quality and level of service standards, and the food product that we provide here are extremely special and unique. And then there’s the sheer pleasure that comes from working on weddings."

Gray says he loves “the excitement and fulfillment that comes from working so closely with people who are in love, and planning something as intimate and personal as their wedding.” These days, those wedding plans are likely to include signature cocktails, theme bars and late-night stations, where revelers can refuel on gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, mini sliders and breakfast tacos. “The guests really love it,” Gray says. And we do, too.

To visit The Houstonian, call 713.680.2626 or click here.

Brickhouse Bridal
Saisone Blanche Trunk Show
February 18 - 20, 2010
For more information
call 281.681.3430

Brickhouse Bridal
Amsale Bridesmaids Trunk Show
February 19 - 20, 2010
For more information
call 281.681.3430

Downtown Club at Plaza
Bridal Open House
February 21, 2010
1PM - 3PM
For more information
call 713.632.1557

Sheraton Houston Brookhollow
Bridal Open House
February 21, 2010
1PM to 3PM

Finalé
Bridal Open House
February 21, 2010
1PM to 4PM
For more information
call 281.354.0571

Maison de Mode
La Sposa Trunk Show
February 19 - 21, 2010
15% discount on orders
during this event
For more information
call 713.527.8285

Click Here for more information on upcoming events.

In the market for a gorgeous gown or bridesmaid attire? We’ve got a few trunk shows to tell you about—but get ready, they’re coming up soon!

Starting tomorrow, until Saturday, Brickhouse Bridal hosts the Saisone Blanche trunk show. Come check out these magnificent silk creations and get 15% off your trunk show purchase!

Also at Brickhouse, Friday and Saturday are your dates for a fabulous Amsale Bridesmaids trunk show, with incomparably sophisticated dresses from the famed designer’s bridesmaid collection.

On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, La Sposa brings its regal, impeccably made gowns to Maison de Mode. Visit the salon, meet with La Sposa bridal experts, and get a 15% discount on your La Sposa purchase during the show.

Weddings in Houston Magazine offers 384 oversize, glossy, photo-filled pages of wedding advice, ideas and inspiration.

If you just got engaged, you will not want to miss our current issue. Available on newsstands everywhere, or order
your copy Here!

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E-mail your feedback and suggestions. We’re eager to hear from you, Houston bride!