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Vera Wang Gemma | Real Brides Gallery

May 22nd, 2013

Dramatic, romantic, glamorous are just a few ways to describe the Vera Wang Gemma wedding dress.

Famously worn by Hilary Duff for her 2010 nuptials to Mike Comrie, Vera Wang Gemma has been a favorite of brides for many seasons. The abstract blossoms of tissue organza in the mermaid skirt and the bands of french tulle that wrap the bodice create an overall look that is simply stunning.

And because even a beautiful dress is still just a dress until the bride makes it her own, we’ve gathered a sampling of the Vera Wang Gemma gowns from the site to show you just how gorgeous this dress can really be. Enjoy!

If you’re considering a Vera Wang, you can find all of our breathtaking listings here.

Gorgeous, Ethereal Tulle Wedding Dresses

May 21st, 2013

Ethereal, dreamy, lighter than air, however you describe them, tulle wedding dresses are simply gorgeous!

We love tulle because the look is oh so feminine and quintessentially bridal. It’s perfect for the bride who wants a soft, romantic look for her Big Day. If that’s the look you’re going for, take a peek at some of the amazing tulle gowns currently listed for sale.

Elie Saab Neftis (left), Vera Wang Helena (right)

Monique Lhuillier Elle (left), Kenneth Pool Angelic (right)

Enzoani Fatima (left), Lian Carlo 4879 (right)

Oscar de la Renta (left), Tara Keely TK 2200 (right)

Rachel + Eli | Monique Lhuillier Wedding from Riccardo Perini Photography

May 20th, 2013

Rachel + Eli’s wedding in Milan, Italy was a a grand event with an abundance of guests, a ballroom reception and a Monique Lhuillier gown called ‘Bell Flower’. I love the bride’s vintage 60′s look, channeling the iconic style and beauty of actor Katharine Ross, in The Graduate…stunning smokey eyes, sexy up-do and pale pink lips, so good! Don’t miss the look on Rachel’s face as her groom takes the traditional ‘first look under the veil’ of his beautiful bride. Enjoy!

Rachel + Eli | November 27, 2011 | ATA Hotel Quark, Milan, Italy

The Ceremony
The ceremony took place in one of the halls on the lower level of the ATA Hotel Quark. The room was packed with our guests. I was shaking and nervous as I waited to walk down the aisle, and kept walking back and forth in the lower level lobby. My parents walked me down the aisle, which was decorated with white flowers and tulle, and at about half way, they left me, and Eli came and got me. He looked under my veil, to see if it really was me, as the tradition goes, and whispered some beautiful and romantic words to me before we started walking our path together. It was a beautiful ceremony and more than anything, emotional.

The Reception
We had an abundant buffet of a variety of foods including Persian, Italian and sushi before entering the ballroom for a sit down dinner and dancing. In the ballroom, we had blue lighting reflecting on all the white tables. We had a video slide show of our photos playing continuously on a big screen. We had a great band of 12 people who warmed up the night with their amazing rhythm and songs, and kept our guests dancing all night.

Rachel’s Dress Search
I didn’t really start my search with any particular dress in mind, but I knew I wanted a ball gown, because your wedding is the only time in your life when you can wear a big ball gown and feel like a princess. Mermaid and a-line gowns looked like ordinary evening dresses on me. I first started getting ideas of dresses when I went wedding dress shopping for my sister, who got married just a few months before me. When we went to see the dresses at the Wedding Salon of Manhasset, I saw another bride trying on the Bell Flower by Monique Lhuillier. I saw it and fell in love. It was so me! So when I started my search, I knew I had to try it on! And in the end, the Bell Flower became my wedding dress!

How Rachel Felt in Her Wedding Dress
I felt sophisticated, refined and just beautiful!

Why Rachel Decided to Sell Her Wedding Dress
I decided to sell my dress because it’s a true beauty and it would be a shame or waste, if it just sits in my closet, and isn’t enjoyed by someone else. Its simple fresh elegance transmits such a particular positive feeling. No one should miss out!

Kate + Cory | Reem Acra Wedding from White Loft Studio

May 17th, 2013

Croquet, bocce and blankets…Kate + Cory’s waterfront wedding in Edgecomb, Maine was relaxed, summery and charming. I love this “sit-where-you like” kind of day, set on the groom’s family property with nuptials amidst the trees and a tented reception. Kate looks so natural in her floral crown and Reem Acra sheath gown…not to mention she looks totally in love! Don’t miss the delightful table decor or all of the really beautiful people that graced this darling wedding. Enjoy!

Kate + Cory | August 25, 2012 | Edgecomb, Maine

The Ceremony
We were married on the water at Cory’s parents house on the coast of Maine, a special place to us. We spent many of our first dates there. Our dear friend Liz officiated the ceremony and family and friends contributed to the entire day, from singing during the ceremony to helping us arrange flowers. We both wrote our own vows and waited until that very moment to read them to each other. They were so heartfelt & we both teared up. And at the end we sped away in a boat for a few moments alone – so glamorous!

The Reception
Our vision for the wedding reception we wanted people to feel like they were at a home, not at a formal sit- down dinner. We had a long, relaxed cocktail hour. Guests played bocce and croquet while listening to the amazing fiddle music of our band while enjoying dark & stormies and delicious appetizers. Dinner was a sit-where-you like at long tables, and the Good Food Store cooked up the most amazing barbecue and fixings. I had a fun time working on decorations with my mom and maid of honor, but we mostly kept it simple because the setting was so beautiful. Later in the night family & friends surprised us with a display of real fireworks and we danced the night away under the stars. It was such a perfect day to share with the people we love.

Kate’s Dress Search
I knew from the start that I wanted a simple but elegant dress that fit the beautiful outdoor setting of our wedding. My taste runs to the timeless and classic and I was looking for a dress that would feel breezy and natural. I tried on many dresses, but when I saw this Reem Acra dress pop up on the Gilt Groupe site, I knew it was the one! Not only is it beautifully constructed, but it was so comfortable to wear and I felt like a goddess.

How Kate Felt in Her Wedding Dress
Beautiful, Lucky & In Love

Why Kate Decided To Sell Her Wedding Dress
It makes me a little sad to see it just hanging in my closet; I’d much rather see the dress bring another bride joy on their wedding day.

Agnes + Ludwig | Vera Wang Wedding from Anna and Spencer Photography

May 15th, 2013

Elegant and captivating…Agnes + Ludwig’s Atlanta wedding has an ethereal quality that whisks you away like a ballet. And artistic too. Today’s featured bride not only walked down the aisle while her groom played the violin, but she also is an event planner and designer in her own right; responsible for the gorgeous array of flowers, stunning table displays and a beautifully themed wedding fit for royalty. I couldn’t agree with you more Agnes, you truly are, “Incredibly beautiful and impeccable, like a princess bride.” Enjoy!

Agnes + Ludwig | November 10, 2012 | Atlanta, GA

The Ceremony
We had a traditional, religious ceremony at the Peachtree Road United Methodist Church and a Chinese Tea Ceremony at St. Regis, Atlanta. For the church ceremony we had huge flowers as centerpieces that gave that final touch to the ceremony. And when I walked down the aisle, my husband was playing violin. It was so touching.

The Reception
Atlanta was the perfect city for our reception because it is home to one of my favorite hotels, Mandarin Oriental. It is such an intimate space with the most delicious food and elegant modern style. For our décor theme, we used white, gray and pink, involving different textures and florals. For a sophisticated look throughout the reception we used big crystal trees, crystal flower vases and peonies and ranunculus flowers as centerpieces. For the finishing touch, we had candles at the corridor that guided our guests to the banquet hall.

Agnes’ Dress Search
Whenever I thought of my wedding dress, Vera Wang was the only option – I swear there was no other choice! So the day after the engagement, Vera Wang was the first website I went to. I wanted my ceremony gown to be traditional, classic and elegant for the exchanging of vows and my evening gown to be modern and romantic. My tulle ball gown made me feel like a queen and it matched my pearl earrings perfectly. For the banquet reception I went for modern and romantic gown, that went perfect with my Tiffany jewelry.

How Agnes Felt in Her Wedding Dress
Incredibly beautiful and impeccable like a princess bride

Why Agnes Decided to Sell Her Wedding Dress
Simply put…because my closet so tiny!

Reception Wedding Dress: Vera Wang Farrah | Photography: Anna and Spencer Photography | Ceremony Venue: Peachtree Road United Methodist Church | Reception Venue: Mandarin Oriental, Atlanta | Event Planning + Design: Agnes M Event Planning & Design, (Today’s Featured Bride)

Short Wedding Dresses

May 14th, 2013

Show your style with a short wedding dress!

Whether you’re having a simple courthouse ceremony, want to dance all night at your reception or just want a dress that is fun and modern, a short wedding dress could be your perfect choice. Lacy and feminine, dramatic and bold, or simple and elegant, there’s a style for every type of bride. Here are just a few of our favorite short gowns currently available.

Jenny Packham (left), Oscar de la Renta 22E53 (right)

Ines di Santo Becca (left), Amsale Sasha (right)

Modern Trosseau Daphne (left), Tracy Reese/ Anthropologie (right)

Ivy & Aster Sweet Dreams (left), Monique Lhuillier Camille (right)

Want more? See all of our short wedding dresses here.

Jessica + Thomas | Romona Keveza Wedding from Virgin Portraits

May 13th, 2013

Jessica + Thomas’ destination wedding to Peter Island in the British Virgin Island’s was an intimate get away for two…or as Jessica said it, a “a private island paradise”. So good! Jessica looks lovely in her Romona Keveza gown. I love her simple yet timeless single pearl earrings and matching necklace and the fresh white tropical flowers in her hair. May this beautiful wedding utopia wedding stay with you all week, enjoy!

Jessica + Thomas | May 8, 2012 | Peter Island, British Virgin Islands

The Ceremony
There are some places on earth that simply must be experienced to fully understand. Peter Island is one of those places. While words and images can stir the imagination, you will never know the true magic of this private island paradise until you feel it beneath your feet. This true island paradise provided the perfect backdrop and venue for our intimate wedding ceremony. We started our wedding day with morning snorkeling at the mouth of the Bight near Norman Island. Then we sailed to Peter Island to prepare for our late afternoon nuptials. With only two friends by our side, we were married by Reverend Myron Stevens in the Coconut Grove overlooking the beach and Deadman’s Bay.

The Reception
Immediately following the ceremony, we were presented with our marriage certificate and posed for pictures on the beach with the sun setting in the background. After sharing a bottle of champagne with our friends and a few phone calls to immediate family, we enjoyed a private dinner on the beach. The next day, we rejoined our friends on our sailboat to continue island hopping throughout the British Virgin Islands.

Jessica’s Dress Search
I always pictured myself wearing an ivory, lace dress with minimal details on my wedding day. The Romona Keveza dress fit this vision perfectly. The beaded belt was a bit of a surprise but added the right amount of detail to my gown and was complete perfection against the ivory lace.

How Jessica Felt in Her Wedding Dress
Timeless, Romantic, Beautiful

Why Jessica Decided to Sell Her Wedding Dress
I only wore the dress for 2-3 hours for our destination wedding including ceremony and dinner. The dress is practically brand new; it is immaculate with no stains, rips or tears. With the exception of our wedding video and photos, very few have seen me in this dress. It would be a shame if this dress were not worn again, especially considering its like new condition. A remarkable value for any bride-to-be!  

Wedding Dress: Romona Keveza | Photography: Virgin Portraits and Personal Images provided by Today’s Featured Bride | Ceremony + Reception Venue: Peter Island Resort and Spa, BVI | Cake: Peter Island Resort and Spa, BVI

Brooke + Jon | Monique Lhuillier Wedding from Meg Perotti Photography

May 10th, 2013

Rustic, relaxed and natural…Brooke + Jon’s wedding in Northern California was elegant and full of charm set upon Marin Headlands’ former military barracks turned Center for the Arts. I love the little bits of bohemian meets vintage style: wood flooring, mismatched dining room chairs, cracked yellow walls and exposed lights with embroidered linens, roses, peonies, candles and strings of lights to fill the space. And my favorite, Brooke’s soft flowing locks and her delicate and feminine Monique Lhuillier gown called ‘Aspen’. Divine!

Brooke + Jon | May 19, 2012 | Marin Headlands, California

The Ceremony
We were married in the Marin Headlands, located on Northern California’s Pacific Coast just north of San Francisco. Our ceremony was in a beautiful lush field and was the perfect romantic setting.

The Reception
Our reception was exactly what we had wanted. Former military barracks that are now used as artist studios surrounds the park we were married in and our reception was in The Center for the Arts. We had a family style dinner in the Mess hall with ingredients fresh from the Farmer’s Market. We ended the evening dancing the night away to an 80’s cover band that got every one of our guests on the dance floor! The space is beautiful with its wood flooring, mismatched dining room chairs, cracked yellow walls and exposed lights so we kept the decorations to a minimum. Cream peonies embroidered linens, roses, peonies, candles and strings of lights filled the space to create the most unique and special place for us to celebrate with our friends and family.

Brooke’s Search Dress Search
I started my dress search not having a clue of what I wanted and quickly became overwhelmed with so many options. I knew I didn’t want a ball gown and that I loved lace but that was about all I was sure of. I actually originally purchased a different dress and realized quickly it was not the right dress for me (big time buyers remorse). All of the gowns at Monique Lhuillier are stunning but the dress I ultimately choose was perfect for me. It fit me like a glove and could not have been more perfect for our romantic wedding. I’m so glad I went with my gut feeling and got the wedding gown I truly loved.

How Brooke Felt in Her Wedding Dress
Timeless, Sparkling, Perfect

Why Brooke Decided to Sell Her Wedding Dress
I decided to sell my wedding gown partly because it’s the practical thing to do and because I want someone else to enjoy wearing it as much as I did! I hate the idea of such a beautiful gown sitting in a box in storage. I decided to save my veil so if I have a daughter I can pass that on to her.

Liana + Mark | Lela Rose Wedding from John Chin Photography

May 8th, 2013

Intimate, modern and romantic…Liana + Mark’s Seattle wedding for 95 of their closest friends and family was beautiful. Liana looks stunning in her Lela Rosa gown. I love the cut and style of this dress and how the scoop neck, capped sleeves and trumpet gown perfectly compliments the brides gorgeous figure (the lace overlay is so feminine). Don’t miss the individual sequence themed dress styles for the bridal party or Liana’s really classic up-do. Enjoy!

Liana + Mark | April 6th 2013 | Hotel 1000 in Seattle, WA

The Ceremony
The ceremony and reception were held at Hotel 1000 in downtown Seattle. The ceremony was a seamless combination of romantic chic with the city of Seattle as our backdrop. Blue, purple and white hydrangea and orchids added a flare of color to the all white ceremony. Adding to the ambiance of tea light candles with the light patter of rain drops on the floor to ceiling glass terrace. With only 95 of our closest friends and families the ceremony was intimate, loving and full of romance. We escorted our guests to their tables with envelopes hanging from our modern style tree accented with white hydrangeas.

The Reception
The ceremony was followed by our happy hour where guests enjoyed fresh made bruschetta, chicken satay and delicious crab cakes. While they mingled with one another the wedding party sipped on champagne and laughed with each other until they danced their way into the dinning room to “Suite and Tie.” Once inside the guests savored on our family style serving of coriander crusted pork, flank steak and asparagus risotto with delicious sides to accompany each entree. Once we were escorted to the dance floor we never left. The lounge area offered a great way for guests to take a breather from dancing while still enjoying the show! Purple up-lighting and the night sky offered an amazing atmosphere for everyone who danced away until 2 am!

Liana’s Dress Search
I have only been to a handful of weddings and none of them were my close friends…So searching for a dress was a whole new experience for me. I didn’t have any idea where to start or what style would even look good on me. My wedding planner luckily helped me narrow down a few amazing places in Seattle to start. With my mom and two sisters by my side we started at a boutique with some really great dresses. It was there that I found out which style I could work the best, which was trumpet style. I also wanted a dress that was unique but timeless (not the easiest of combinations). It also just so happens that the first “trumpet style” I tried on ended up being the one I fell in LOVE with!! It took me over 34 different dresses to try on before I came back the one I got. But I always knew from the beginning that it was absolutely perfect with the low boat scoop neck line, lace overlay and low back accented with buttons down the train. The final touch was the diamond and sequined sash that gave the dress the perfect touch!

How Liana Felt in Her Wedding Dress
Stunning, timeless, madly in love

Why Liana Decided to Sell Her Wedding Dress
Not being familiar with weddings before my own, I never really thought about selling the dress. It wasn’t until after the ceremony and reception that I knew that I had to give someone else the opportunity to fall in love and enjoy this dress and all it’s beauty as much as I did. It’s far too amazing to keep hidden in a closet.

Pretty Peplums

May 7th, 2013

Want a fashion forward look on your Big Day? A wedding dress with a peplum just might be the perfect answer.

Pretty and stylish, peplums add a touch of daring to your wedding gown. And they’re figure flattering, making them perfect for any bride. If you are thinking of wearing a peplum for your walk down the aisle, take a peek at this gorgeous gowns currently listed for sale.