Bridal veils have been around longer than any of our family wedding albums that are currently collecting dust at your grandparent’s house. There is just something about adding a veil to a white dress that SCREAMS wedding. What’s not talked about enough though is the brides that want a more subtle nod to the tradition. As wedding professionals who have worked with many brides before, we have heard time and time again that a veil just doesn’t feel right when tried on with the dress (or they just don’t like the concept all together). Today we wanted to share some alternative options to a veil that will still make a statement without necessarily blindly following tradition.

A Cape

Capes come in many shapes and sizes these days. The traditional twist to this is that almost all capes are made of tulle just like veils! Some capes clasp in front of you and cover your shoulders, some attach to the straps of your dress like wings. The details options on your bridal cape are endless, you can stick to plain tulle, or add anything from sparkles to lace to feathers

Caesar Style Veil

This is technically still a veil, but with a twist! Instead of one comb at the base of your head, this has two separate combs, but with tulle draping between the combs and down your back

Flower Crown

If you are a nature/BOHO type of human a flower crown is for you! Often times your florist can actually create this for you using the actual florals from your wedding. This is a great way to incorporate your wedding colors into your bridal look. You also have control over how dramatic this look becomes with how voluminous the crown is (and if you have long hair you can weave a few flowers in!)

A Birdcage

A birdcage veil is the perfect way to add a vintage spin to your wedding day. The veils came into popularity during war times in the 40’s due to a lack of fabric, but is a distinguished style from the Old Hollywood era which is where you will find the inspiration all over Pinterest!

A Statement Bow

Bows in all forms are probably the hottest bridal trend right now. Many brides have opted to let a bow be their hair piece rather than a veil that covers the back of the dress. Many are still tulle, but others are covered in pearls or made out of other unique fabrics.

Tulle Hair Scarf

This inspiration feels very much like a beach wedding or a romantic Greece getaway. Just like you would use any silk scarf to hold back your hair and add the finishing touches to an outfit, a tulle hair scarf will work just the same! And the best part is that this could easily be a DIY project with a few strips of ivory tulle

Are you a veil person, or will you be incorporating one of these veil alternatives into your wedding look? If you do, we want to see your pictures so tag us on IG! Reminder: SamiaLynn does offer a custom design service. Whether you’re looking for a cape or your version of a veil, this can be made for you.

Click here to learn more!

Samantha Shammas, Author and Owner of SamiaLynn

Bridal gown shopping can be a daunting part of your wedding checklist.

If you are like us and love shopping, the sheer amount of gown options is overwhelming. If you dread the idea of stepping into a store to find a new pair of jeans, then gown shopping is something that you will put off as long as possible. No matter which one describes you best, what you need to understand is that your bridal consultant will use her expertise to find you the most memorable dress of your life. The experience should make you feel beautiful, confident, and ready to marry the person of your dreams.

To help you prepare for your bridal appointment, we have created a list of questions you should be ready to ask and answer during the course of your consultation. We recommend going in with an open mind, a Pinterest board of inspiration pictures, and neutral colored underwear.  

The top 5 questions you should be asking your professional bridal consultant: 

1. What would you recommend based on my body type?

- No matter what, though, you should choose your gown based off of what makes you feel best, not just what you are expected to wear. Also know that bridal sizes are significantly different than street sizes. Leave the numbers to the consultant and know that you will never be ordering that size again! 

2. How do you bustle this gown?

- Make sure your consultant shows you how the bustle will look on the gown. You should also record the tailor showing you the final bustle so that even after a glass of champagne, your maid of honor will be able to get you ready for your first dance with no delays. 

3. How would you accessorize my dream gown?

- Sometimes you can get discounts by ordering your accessories at the same location as your gown! Sticking to one location for all of your gown needs is the best way to ensure consistency and possible discounts. 

4. What is delivery time right now?

- Are you asking for something on your gown that would be considered custom and would up the cost and the turnaround time?

5. How much are alterations?

- Also remember that alterations mean different things at different salons, so make sure your consultant goes into detail about what they consider alterations. Does their price include full fittings, a bustle, and steaming? 

The top 5 questions your bridal consultant should be asking you: 

1. What is your budget?

- When deciding on a budget don't forget about alterations, shoes, and any other accessories you may want. Be specific about the budget you give your consultant, she/he will need to know how much you would like to spend on your gown in order to pull properly from the sample options. 

2. What makes you feel beautiful?

- This is not what your mom thinks, what you think you should think, or what some stranger on the internet wants you to think (Hi!). Your consultant wants to know exactly what makes you feel your most stunning when you look in the mirror. 

3. How do you picture yourself looking on your wedding day?

- This means picturing yourself surrounded by your flowers, your venue, the bridesmaids dresses you will be selecting after your bridal appointment. Your gown will set the tone for your entire wedding. 

4. What are your favorite features of your body?

- Do you like your collar bones? Let’s show them off! Do you like your legs? Get a gown with a slit!

5. What are your least favorite features on your body?

- Would you prefer to cover your arms? Maybe think about doing an off-the-shoulder moment. Don’t like cleavage? Let’s look at high neck options and switch things up! 

There are thousands of wedding gowns for you to choose from. Enjoy the shopping process, but never forget the reason for the shopping adventure. You stopped dating after you met the man (or woman) of your dreams, stop shopping once you find the gown of your dreams!

Lauren Allen, Author

Lauren is a bridal consultant and self-published author, with a background in celebrity styling and bridal make up artistry. You can find her with an oat milk cappuccino in the morning, and a glass of Cabernet at night, her real passions. Get enough wine in her and she will tell you about her perfectly planned wedding. Just promise not to ask about the groom, that’s one detail she’s still working on. Lauren is based in NYC and her book “How to Be 23” can be found here