Win a trip to South Africa at Goodwood’s Ladies’ Day

And sure enough, it will be an occasion to cherish again this year, when the photographers will be out in force to capture the best of the ladies’ fashions on show. But in recent years, the Friday of festival week has become another day when dedicated followers of fashion have a field day.

That’s because it offers the chance for one lady race-goer to win the trip of a lifetime to South Africa as winner of the L’Ormarins Best Dressed competition.

The prize for the victor is a trip for two people to Cape Town to the L’Ormarins Queen’s Plate fixture at Kenilworth Racecourse, taking place on Friday, January 5, and Saturday 6, 2018.

As well as flights, airport and raceday transfers and hospitality at the races, the winner will enjoy five nights’ luxury accommodation, a tour of the world-famous L’Ormarins vineyard and dinner at the Grand Café and Beach Hotel.

Both the 2015 winner Rachel Hawkins and last year’s victor Sarah Weston would testify it’s a prize well worth winning.

To enter the competition, ladies will need to be seen at the Qatar Goodwood Festival on Friday, August 4, wearing the signature L’Ormarins light blue and white.

A team will be on the lookout around the racecourse for those dressed in the most beautiful, original outfits, before a shortlist is drawn by an independent panel of judges and representatives from L’Ormarins.

The final winner will be chosen from the 12-strong shortlist in the Parade Ring, shortly before Goodwood’s L’Ormarins Queen’s Plate race – a Group 3 race that is one of a number of high-class races planned for the fourth day of Glorious week.

The judges will be looking for those who are dressed elegantly but express originality and will take into account all aspects of the outfit; dress, shoes, hat and accessories, all of which should befit the L’Ormarins colour theme.

Guests in all enclosures will be invited to enter and should look out for the team of photographers on the day.Read more at:http://www.marieprom.co.uk | http://www.marieprom.co.uk/cocktail-dresses-uk

Dispatches From a Feminist Bride

Queer and same-sex couples have the same subpar options as opposite-sex couples when it comes to choosing a last name upon marriage: keep original last names, have one partner take the other’s name, hyphenate, or mutually choose a new name. If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a million times: there are no good options when it comes to last names, people. However, unlike opposite-sex couples, the reasons behind same-sex couples’ last name choices may be specific to the experience of living in a country that has only recently begun legally recognizing their marriages.

Because of “shaky legal protection,” some couples have viewed sharing a last name as extra insurance “in case of an emergency, such as a trip to the hospital.” Others feel that sharing a last name gives their marriage more credibility in the eyes of a culture that understands marriage to be between a man and a woman.

But this is not the case for everyone. Some same-sex couples understand the tradition of one person taking the other’s last name to be rooted in a patriarchal, property-based history of marriage, in which a woman is subservient to her husband, and they therefore want zero part of that. Cindy of Missouri says this was definitely the case for her: “We both loved our names and adamantly did not want to change them.”

Others see the opportunity to share a last name as a challenge to the institution of marriage itself. After all, would your great-grandfather ever have imagined that one day his sister, Marge, and her lifelong roommate, Judy, would be known as Mrs. and Mrs. Jones? He’d be all, “So you’re telling me marriage is now a legal arrangement between two consenting adults instead of a way to staff the family farm? What will they think of next!?” Melinda of Ohio explains, “People often comment that gay people were trying to ‘change the institution of marriage,’ and some would deny that, but I think we have changed it, but for the better.” She explains that the legalization of gay marriage is just one way that marriage traditions have evolved: “People aren't going around trading their daughters for goats anymore or figuring out how to create political alliances.” So when it came to choosing a last name, “We didn't want to just recycle the tradition of the woman taking the man's name since there is no man here, no one is anyone's property, and sadly, no goats were exchanged during this process.” Instead, Melinda and her wife, Patti, elected to combine their names to create a new last name. Patti summarizes, “Marriage is the intertwining of two lives, and we even wanted to intertwine our names.”

Tony and his husband also chose to combine their last names after their wedding. The name they chose “was our hashtag for our wedding guests. A friend always said it was our ‘Brangelina’ name, and we never even considered it until we got such a positive response from our guests.” Tracy and her wife did the same: “My name was Schakett and her name was Williams. It was either Schwilliams or Willhakett (which is mass murderer-sounding). As we have been together for 11 years, many of our friends had already called us the Schwilliams for a long time.” These affectionately bestowed couples’ nicknames signify their community’s role in recognizing the legitimacy of their partnership, in spite of the larger culture’s reluctance.

For same-sex couples in which one partner chooses to take the other’s last name, there are a variety of factors to consider before choosing—the choice is not based on gender alone. For instance, maybe one person just has a nicer-sounding name. Or there may be a variety of sentiments attached to one name that the couple prefers. Brandon, a hair and makeup professional in Virginia, elected to take his husband’s name. He writes in a piece for Catalyst Wedding Magazine, “My former name was just fine. But then I got married and suddenly cared about my name. I don’t consider myself a traditional person; however, changing my last name to my husband’s excited me.” He talks about what this new name symbolized for him: “A ‘Kirk’ is a caring and compassionate person. A ‘Kirk’ is someone who holds family and loved ones close to their heart and is affectionate and nurturing. These are values I’ve learned to adore in my new family. So, it seemed fitting that I would choose this name after getting married in hopes that I might embody everything this names means.”

Opposite-sex couples could learn a thing or two from same-sex couples when it comes to choosing a last name. Because there is no precedent, same-sex couples are forced to have intentional conversations around values, identity, and family before choosing how to approach the last name issue. These conversations often go unspoken for opposite-sex couples who are more likely to do what’s expected rather than have some of the hard talks. But you know what they say: no pain, no gain, don’t expect her to take your last name.Read more at:evening gowns | http://www.marieprom.co.uk/formal-dresses-uk

How to Choose the Right Sunscreen for Your Skin

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I can’t stress enough how important it is to apply sunscreen daily to prevent skin cancer. Unfortunately, research shows that not enough people do.

According to a 2013 survey by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, only 14.3 percent of men and 29.9 percent of women reported that they regularly use sunscreen on both their face and other exposed skin. Aside from skin cancer prevention, sunscreen helps your skin stay looking younger for longer.

According to another 2013 study, people who applied sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day were 24 percent less likely to show increased aging than those who didn’t apply sunscreen regularly. A sunscreen with a SPF between 15 and 50 is recommended by most medical professionals and organizations. Anything less or more hasn’t been proven to effectively absorb or deflect harmful rays. Personally, I prefer and recommend using a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher for daily use.

Now, while I absolutely believe in applying sunscreen daily, I know there are plenty of us out there who have experienced a bad sunburn or two. While this may seem all too common—and therefore harmless—it’s important to educate yourself on the danger of sunburns. Experiencing more than five serious sunburns between the ages of 15 and 20 increases your risk of melanoma by 80 percent and of non-melanoma skin cancer by 68 percent, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Scary stuff!

There are two types of sunscreen. Those comprised of organic chemicals, including zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, are often a thicker consistency than typical sunscreens and are incredibly safe and effective. Both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide help reflect harmful UVA and UVB rays.

In contrast, avobenzone and oxybenzone (inorganic chemicals found in many popular brands of sunscreen) absorb the UVA and UVB rays. This causes the ingredients to break down and release heat, which protects your skin from sun damage and sunburns.

Did you know that how you apply sunscreen is also critical to achieving maximum protection? Typically people apply their sunscreen from the center of the face outwards, rather than working inwards. Many cases of skin cancer and sun damage spots can be seen along the hairline and sides of the face because they were missed during sunscreen application.

Choosing the right sunscreen for your skin needs is about more than just spf—especially if you want a daily skincare option that will do more than just block harmful rays. Mineral sunscreens in particular have proven to effectively reduce inflammation, which can minimize the appearance of acne and reduce symptoms of rosacea. Sun damage protection, skin cancer prevention, and anti-inflammation—talk about a win-win! There are also plenty of two-in-one formulas that harness the power of antioxidants and peptides to block the sun’s harmful rays and repair existing damage. My personal favorite is the tinted anti-aging sunscreen by Rejuve.

Sensitive skin

If your skin is reactive and on the sensitive side, you may want to choose a sunscreen that’s hypoallergenic and fragrance-free. Look for titanium dioxide or zinc oxide as the active ingredient. If you have skin irritation or allergies, avoid sunscreens with alcohol, fragrances, or preservatives.

Acne-prone skin

Avoid heavy, greasy sunscreens—gel formulas usually contain alcohol, which can benefit skin that’s prone to breakouts. You can also try using a mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as the active ingredient. These sit on top of the skin rather than being absorbed, so your skin is less likely to react poorly to it.

For the little ones

Though spray-on sunscreens are popular and convenient, they’re not the best option for children, as they typically have sensitive skin. I recommend lotion or cream sunscreens with—you guessed it—zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.These are better tolerated and can usually be found in sunscreens for babies and children.

For everyone

When in doubt, the Skin Cancer Foundation offers a seal of recommendation for a variety of sunscreens that meet specific criteria for effective UV sun protection. The program covers many categories of sun protection, each with its own specific standards. Sunscreens may be granted the Daily Use or Active Seal, while all other sun protection products may be granted the Traditional Seal.

Be on the lookout for this next time you go shopping, and make sure your skin is safe as you enjoy the rest of the summer.Read more at:white prom dresses

Why Red Hair Colour Washes Out So Quickly

History has long had an obsession with redheads, and current celebs like Emma Stone, Julianne Moore, Christina Hendricks, Susan Sarandon, Florence Welch and our own Isla Fisher have further fuelled the hair colour trend.

Though if you're not a natural red, you can fake it (we're looking at you, Rihanna), but before you do, there's a few things you should know about coloring your hair this hue.

Who does red hair suit?

"Most natural redheads have fair skin, with or without freckles, so this complexion really suits red hair best," Virginie Gayssot, Franck Provost Education and Talent Manager told HuffPost Australia.

"However, there are many tones of red -- from pale copper through to deep mahogany, so there'll be something in that range to suit almost everyone. As a general rule, the darker your skin tone, the darker red your hair should be."

"Just remember that when you change your hair colour to one that isn't in your natural 'palette', you may need to alter your wardrobe and makeup. Often that favourite lipstick or shirt just doesn't work anymore," Gayssot said.

Why does red fade so fast?

A vibrant red colour is striking, though if you've tried this shade before you'll know that it quickly washes out, becoming dull and a little dirty-looking. The reason comes down to the size of the red colour molecule.

"If your natural hair colour is blonde or brown, it doesn't support the red hair molecule as well as a natural redhead, which has a better 'undercoat' because it's naturally red. The red hair colour molecule is larger and heavier than any other hair colour molecule, therefore it has difficulty penetrating the hair shaft. For that reason it sits on the surface and washes out of the cuticle more easily when you shampoo your hair," Chloe Benoit, Franck Provost Paris educator told HuffPost Australia.

"This is why you should wait as long as possible to wash your hair after you've had your red colour. As soon as you shampoo, the warm water swells the cuticle and the action of scrubbing your hair makes the red dye molecules loose and prone to being washed away,"

Brunette to red

Brown hair wanting to go warm by way of a red shade can do so quite easily.

"For brown hair to be coloured red, it would depend on how dark the brunette was and how light or intense the red shade is they want. If they were very dark and wanted to go a light strawberry blonde, for example, then some lightening would be required. Similarly if they wanted to go a very intense bright red," Benoit said.

"However for most natural brunettes, the application is enough, without lightening. If they are a coloured brunette, the same applies. If there is a lot of build up of artificial colour in the hair, a gentle deep cleanse may be necessary to get rid of the artificial colour, as this will affect the desired result. The idea is to get the hair to a suitable undercoat to support the red molecules and the particular shade wanted."

Blonde to red

For blondes it might be a little more complicated, but that will come down to the individual colour and condition of the hair.

"For blondes, it depends on how light or how damaged the blonde is, but for a perfect result, a pre-colouration is necessary. It is going to ensure a true shade and a longer lasting result. Pre-colouration is a technique used to give pigment to hair that is too blonde or porous hair. It is a very important step to get the best results in a colour transformation," Benoit said.

Red colour maintenance

Not surprisingly, red-coloured hair takes a lot of very careful upkeep.

"Anti-dandruff shampoos strip colour and deep cleansing shampoos can also have a peeling effect, so both of these should be avoided. Specifically designed shampoos and conditioners for coloured hair are recommended. Certain brands have red pigmented hair care ranges for at home use to refresh the colour in between salon visits. The Pureology Reviving Red range is great for this. Redheads should also avoid salt water and chlorine. They should only wash their hair maximum two to three times a week to ensure longer lasting colour. Dry shampoo will get you through between washes," Benoit said.

It also pays to fork out for both in-salon and at home treatments.

"An in-salon treatment to lock in the colour is also must, then weekly at home treatments will help your hair to stay radiant between salon visits. Make sure you use a shampoo, conditioner and masque created specifically for colour treated hair, such as the Kérastase Réflection range, which will maintain radiant hair colour for longer," Gayssot said.

As for how often you'll need to have your colour redone, get ready to visit the salon fairly frequently.

"We recommend to any client with colour services in their hair to visit our salons every three to six weeks to ensure a perfect colour everyday. Whilst some balayage blondes and brunettes can get away with longer periods in between visits, for redheads this regular maintenance is a must," Benoit said.Read more at:purple prom dresses | yellow prom dresses

India Couture Week 2017

Ace fashion designer Tarun Tahiliani who showcased his collection the Last dance of the courtesan at India Couture Week for the first time last year ever since the event shifted to the capital, will be taking the grandeur and elegance quotient at the seven-day gala event a notch higher with his upcoming Bridal Couture and Occasion Wear 2017 collection Tarakanna on day two of the event.

"With silhouettes that sparkle and shine, as if through a haze of stardust, Tarakanna is a portrait of understated cosmic glamour," said the veteran designer about his upcoming collection in an exclusive interview to News18.

Talking about what the collection draws from, the couture giant told News18, "We took inspiration from all things universe – constellations and stars being the core theme for the collection. The frothiness of celestial bodies translates into the lightness and movement of the garments. Vibrant colours of sunrise and the tones of the in-between sky create the colour palette of oranges and mauves and pure pinks. The way light reflects off of the imperceptible objects in the sky, forms the 3D work that is weightless."

In an effort to make bridal and occasion wear light so that the bride and others who don any outfit from the collection can look beautiful, elegant and at the same time enjoy the wedding day/the event, the designer has intentionally created ensembles that are light-weight and fit the person like a glove. The new collection encapsulates the designer's love for layering light-weight clothes that fit like a glove. Regal volumes, innovative techniques and smart contouring have been used tactically to make it appear as though the clothes glide effortless like a beautiful dream.

"Couture around the world is known as much for feathery lightness as well as the gravity defying construction – this is where our new couture began as we thought deeply of lightness so Indian brides can enjoy their wedding and dance in their clothes. That is how we have evolved – by creating a new vocabulary of design. Our clothes need to embody the spirit of our cultural legacy, which has to be updated for the global, peripatetic customer,’ said Tahiliani.

When asked how much and how has Indian couture evolved over the last several years he said that Indians were on the cusp of a new way, which is a wonderful fusion of the two worlds, where a true confluence in ideas results in a contemporary Indian style that is not ‘ethnic’ or ‘western’ but is a true synthesis and has global identity and relevance.

He also mentioned that Indian couture has progressed by quantum leaps and bounds in the last 15 years resulting in placing the Indian fashion industry securely on the global map. He said, "We now have fashion weeks, trends, glossy magazines, some multi-brand boutiques of note and a thriving handloom scene. Designers have started their own stores and brands have been established. As we celebrate our traditional handlooms and craftsmanship, the demand for Indian couture is growing exponentially worldwide."

Explaining that a harmonious marriage of traditional crafts and contemporary is extremely important, Tahiliani said, "The Tarun Tahiliani brand has set out to create the ultimate “India Modern”: a brand with a view in the present moment, but, ultimately steeped in the Indian traditions of draped form and the techniques that millions of Indian craftspeople imbibe with love. As Indian couture grows by leaps and bounds in the global market, we take immense pride in our traditional embroideries and fine craftsmanship. It is easy to lose your roots and heritage if you focus too much on the contemporary. A harmonious marriage of the two is of utmost importance, more so ever today."

When asked what all modern elements has he added to his upcoming line to make it more appealing and acceptable by the the global takers, the designer said, "The collection was designed keeping in mind that these pieces could be sold as separates. Adding to the mix and match of traditional Indian silhouettes are the jackets, capes and gillets, adorned with tassels to break the monotony. These garments create a more global appeal for our customers from around the world. For menswear, the simple tailored shape of the kurta is enhanced with an attached drape, creating a balance of modernity and tradition."Read more at:royal blue prom dresses | black prom dresses

Rose water beauty packs, tips for skin, hair

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Want to put your best look forward from head to toe. The answer is simple, 'Rose water'.

Rose water is a powerful ingredient, mild in nature that can work wonder on your skin, hair and mood. The incredibly useful, beauty enhancing potion nourishes the skin from deep within, providing beneficial nutrients.

The solution helps to remove dirt and oil accumulated in clogged pores of the skin. It acts as a great cleanser having anti-inflammatory properties. It also controls skin pH balance and excess oil.

With cooling properties, rose water is a perfect remedy for curing sunburned skin. It provides a protective layer to the skin which may help retain moisture. Being rich in antioxidants, it can provide speedy recovery.

Also, rose water softens the skin and moisturises it without leaving a greasy film on it. It hydrates and revitalises the skin giving it a fresh look.

Mixed with coconut oil, rose water may work wonder to remove makeup without harming the skin.

The antibacterial nature of rose water makes it apt to be used as a topical treatment for cuts, burns and wounds.

Rich in anti-aging qualities, rose water may lighten skin blemishes, wrinkles, stretch marks and may improve skin’s elasticity. It speeds up cell production to tighten the skin pores gently. It’s a great skin toner.

Having anti-inflammatory properties, rose water can help reduce redness of irritated skin, dermatitis and eczema.

The antimicrobial and cleansing properties of rose water may treat acnes, pimples, and infections.

Rose water acts as a natural conditioner that nourishes, moisturises and revitalises scalp and hair. It promotes hair growth treating scalp inflammation and dandruff effectively.

The fragrance of rose water enhances mood. Spray it on your bed and pillows before sleeping. You’ll sleep better after a tiresome day. It may be sprayed in your rooms for a passionate comfort. You may take a rose-scented bath as well.

Fill an empty spray bottle with rose water and spritz it on your face, hands and clothes before leaving home. You will feel fresh and charming throughout the day.

To reduce the puffiness of eyes, you may apply chilled rose water on your eye lids.

Do-it-yourself facial packs made of rose water:

As a cleanser: Mix one teaspoon of rosewater with two teaspoons of wholesome milk. Apply on face and rinse off after 15 minutes.

As a face wash: Mix one teaspoon of rose water with one teaspoon each of almond milk, lemon juice and aloe vera gel. Apply on your face and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing it off. Ideal for sensitive skin as well.

As an exfoliator: Mix two tablespoons of rose water with just enough brown sugar to get a gritty but not sharp texture. Rub on your face, neck, elbows, heels, arms and wherever else you need softening in the shower.

As a pigmentation remover: Mix rose water and aloe vera gel in equal quantities. Apply and keep it on face for 15 to 20 minutes. Before rinsing off the pack’ gently massage it for a few minutes. Pigmentation, age spots, pimple marks and other blemishes may disappear effectively.

As a rash healer: Mix some rose water with aloe vera gel, cucumber juice and yogurt in equal quantities. Apply it on affected area. Keep it for 15 minutes. Wash it off. It works well on sensitive skin too.

As a tanning remover: Add one tablespoon each of rose water and lemon juice in four teaspoon of gram flour. Mix well and apply on your face. Rinse after 15 -20 minutes.

As a night treatment: Blend one teaspoon each of rose water and aloe vera gel, half egg white and two teaspoons of cucumber juice altogether. Apply on your face and neck before going to bed. Rinse with cold water after 15-20 minutes. It’s a great hydrating mask.

Use rose water in your daily beauty regimen. To avoid any fragrance or dyes, look for 100 per cent pure rose water. It is available at most pharmacies and cosmetic shops. See the glow it provides to your skin and hair.

Rose water is a must in every woman’s vanity case.Read more at:http://www.marieprom.co.uk/prom-dresses-uk

How to stay cool when the weather gets hot

Summer is here and with it is the potential of brutal heat waves that make it so miserable, it can literally take your breath away. Temperatures in excess of 100 degrees Fahrenheit are not only uncomfortable, they can be downright dangerous, especially for the very young or the elderly in our community.

Weather forecasters may issue heat-related weather warnings. A Heat Advisory means that temperatures may reach 100 – 105 degrees in the next 72 hours. An Excessive Heat Warning indicates heat index values in the 105 to 110-degree range within the Warning region.

The hottest temperature ever recorded was right here in our state of California. On July 10, 1913, it was a sizzling 134 degrees Fahrenheit in Furnace Creek, located in Death Valley.

Luckily, here in Anza, we should not have to experience anything so oppressive. But the temperatures in the triple digits are still a concern, especially from a health standpoint.

Heat-related injuries can seem harmless enough, but too much sun and an overheating body can spell disaster and even death.

Sunburn is usually a real first-degree burn that injures the top layers of skin exposed to the damaging rays of the sun. This can result in redness and intolerable pain. Severe sunburn can even cause swelling, fluid-filled blisters, fever and headaches. Ointments, cool baths or compresses may help relieve sunburn. Drinking plenty of water helps the body recover.

Heat cramps are another overheating illness and usually related to dehydration. Symptoms include increased sweating and painful muscle spasms of the arms, legs and sometimes the abdomen. People have even reported cramps of the hands and back muscles. The treatment involves removing the person from the heat, offering lots of water and gently massaging the tightening muscles to relieve the spasms.

Heat exhaustion is the inability to sweat enough to cool the body efficiently. Extreme fatigue, weakness, dizziness, nausea or vomiting as well as cold, clammy, pale, red or flushed skin indicates heat exhaustion. It is very important to immediately find a cool spot for the victim, loosen clothing and apply cold compresses. A doctor may need to be consulted of any vomiting continues as the person is cooled.

Heatstroke is the worst heat-related event that can threaten a person’s well-being. It happens when the body is so stressed that it stops sweating but the body temperature continues to rise. Hallucinations, headache, nausea, vomiting, confusion and eventually delirium or unconsciousness can occur. The skin will be hot, dry, red or flushed. Heatstroke is a severe medical emergency that could be fatal. Dial 911, remove clothing, place the person in a cool place or even a cold bath until help arrives. This could mean life or death.

Many common sense methods can be used to lessen the possibility of heat-related illnesses.

Avoid the sun from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., as these are the hottest hours of the day.

Reduce physical activity outside during the hot times.

Wear a wide-brimmed hat and light colored, lightweight, loose-fitting clothes when outside, as this type of clothing reflects heat and sunlight, which in turn will help keep you cooler.

Avoid eating hot, heavy meals that include lots of protein. These foods increase your metabolism and your body’s water consumption, which raises your body’s temperature. Eat light.

If you don’t have an air conditioner in your home, take a cool bath or shower twice a day and visit air-conditioned public spaces or “cool-off” locations during the hottest part of the day.

Drink plenty of fluids even if you are not thirsty. Water is best. Avoid alcohol or caffeine drinks since they are diuretics (food, drink, or medicine that increases the flow of urine, thus depleting the body of water).

Use sunscreen if you need to go out in the sun. Sunscreens can weaken with age, so be sure to make sure yours is not expired.

Anza is also fortunate to have a Cool Down Center located at the Anza Community Hall, 56630 Hwy. 371, across from the Circle K convenience store in Anza. What this means is that when temps get into the triple digits, volunteers man the Hall and open it to the public. Anyone can go there to be in a cool environment and receive free bottled water Mondqy through Friday from 10 a. m. to 4 p. m.. The County of Riverside Community Action Partnership sponsors this endeavor. Cool Down Centers such as this are active from June 15 through Oct. 15, and Warm Centers are active from Dec. 1 through March 31.

While summer means heat, it does not mean you have to suffer to the point of affecting your health. There are options out there. Be careful and be cool.Read more at:short prom dresses | plus size prom dresses

Amanda Kilton and Jonathan Bakos

Gothic Revival-style Roseland Cottage was built in 1846as a summer retreat for Woodstock native and New York City businessman Henry Bowen, who used Roseland to entertain friends and political connections, including four U.S. presidents.

When planning their Oct. 8, 2016, wedding at the pretty-in-pink property, Jonathan Bakos and Amanda Kilton “wanted to be sure that we worked with the big personality that Roseland already has,” says Amanda. “It has such a presence.”

To start, the couple scanned an invite from one of Bowen’s legendary Fourth of July bashes and turned it into a save the date. “Since we were very much trying to be ‘place specific,’” says Amanda, “it set the tone for both vintage and visual history.”

The “visual” aspect was of particular importance to Amanda and Jon, photographers who met in the photo lab as students at the Art Institute of Boston in 2007. “Jon is endlessly supportive of me and my ideas,” says his new bride. He is also “constantly full of surprises. In the planning process he took every idea that I had and made it even better.”

In addition to hiring husband-and-wife photography team Jason Frank and Danielle Sykes, the couple, who share a love for large-format photography, hired Steve Sherman of Rocky Hill to take a large-format formal portrait of their families on the steps of Roseland. “Having all your favorite people together in one place is really special,” remembers Amanda. “We’ll treasure that moment forever.”

The bride, in a vintage-inspired tea-length gown designed by Corrine Crocker-Luby of Glastonbury, and her dapper groom exchanged vows beside Roseland’s boxwood-edged parterre garden in a ceremony officiated by their college professor, Margot Anne Kelley. During cocktail hour, guests sipping the couple’s signature drink: “Mr. Bowen’s Fourth of July Pink Lemonade,” played cornhole using custom boards the couple had emblazoned with the visages of the U.S. presidents (Grant, Hayes, Harrison and McKinley) who once visited.

Table markers for their reception on the South Lawn were made with vintage postcards of places Amanda and Jon have traveled (including the Grand Canyon, where Jon proposed). On each table was a vintage Bakelite View-Master (collected from flea markets, consignment shops and eBay) with a corresponding reel of photos. Centerpieces were vintage milk glass (more flea markets), which Bonnie McCabe of Floral Accents by Bonnie in Glastonbury colored with dahlias, berries and some of the succulent hens and chicks the bride’s grandmother always had in her rock garden.

“I loved looking for things that would make our day unique,” says Amanda. “That’s the fun part of planning.” That being said, “Jon, who has spectacular attention to detail, had as much to do with our wedding as I did,” says his appreciative bride. “The day was our creation.”

P.S. Yes, those are umbrellas in one photo. It rained on Amanda and Jon’s wedding day. And you know what? It was still spectacular. In fact, when it started to come down during their outdoor ceremony, “I was so involved in the moment I didn’t even notice,” says Amanda.Read more at:grey prom dresses | http://www.marieprom.co.uk/cheap-prom-dresses-uk

South Shields beauty queen off to Miss England

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Ashley Robertson, 26, from The Lawe Top, will be strutting her stuff against finalists from across the country when she dons her sash in the prestigious final, which takes place on July 14 in Birmingham.

The beauty queen won a place in the final after winning the Miss Durham Tees Valley competition earlier this year. Now she is preparing to compete in rounds including Miss Sportswoman, Miss Knowledge, Miss Talent, Miss Popularity, Miss Charity and more.

A highlight is set to be the Miss Eco round in which Ashley has made an eco-friendly dress made from recycled plastic bottles. Ashley is no stranger to the pageant world after competing in Miss England for the past five years with various titles.

She says she’s hoping to build on her experience this year.

“I’m hoping to take everything I’ve learnt to help put in a better performance,” she said. “I think having that experience will definitely help because I already know what to expect, what is involved and how much hard work goes into it.

“Pageants aren’t what they used to be. Today it’s all about finding an all round girl, with talent, fitness, knowledge and creativity but, most importantly, someone how cares for their community and charity.”

Competing in pageants has led to a career change for Ashley who has swapped being a beauty therapist for becoming a full time charity fundraiser.

Over the years, she’s raised thousands of pounds for the Heel & Toe charity, which supports young people in the North East with disabilities with events such as the Great North Run and a skywalk.

She was so inspired by their work that she has become a fundraiser for the charity, who are also her official sponsor in Miss England.

Ashley said: “As part of Miss England you carry out charity fundraising which is how I found out about Heel & Toe. I’ve done lots of sponsored events for them over the years and feel so inspired by what they do.”Read more at:royal blue prom dresses

Fashion to me is being sexy, says Gifty Powers

“For me, fashion is sexy, classy and elegant,” the reality show star said in a recent chat with TheCable Lifestyle.

When asked for her favourite fashion items, Gifty said, “It is shoes, outfit, and jewelry. Although the jewelry needs to go with the outfit, You know there are some outfits that do not require jewelry…”

The actress said her participation in the reality show transformed her life, describing it as a “great platform”.

“It has been amazing, like very good and one thing I would never stop doing, is thanking God for Big Brother to give me this great platform, it is legit,” Gifty said.

Since the show ended, virtually all the Big Brother Naija contestants have been busy with various projects, and Gifty is no exception.

“I have been up to quite a lot. I am not meant to say some things, but I am sure that very soon it is going to be out, like few projects. I don’t want to rush.”

When pressed to divulge more about the nature of the project, Gifty said, “It is actually an advertisement, it is about fashion, It is about a whole lot to talk about, you know what I mean”.

The reality show star also disclosed that she has worked on some new movies since the Big Brother Naija show ended.

“I have done a couple of new movies since I got out. I did a movie with Shan George, Daniel .K. Daniel, Ken Erics, Ngozi, Eucharia, lots more and still counting,” she said.

Gifty Powers was the fourth housemate to be evicted from the hugely popular reality show.Read more at:graduation gowns | cheap prom dresses