Inside the New Issue

From gorgeous new gowns to inspiring reception ideas and dreamy honeymoons, our November/December issue has it all!

You’ll love our picks of some of the hottest new gown styles that are sure to elicit plenty of oohs and aahs as you walk down the aisle. 

We also show you how to pull together your look with accessories, bridesmaids’ dresses and a few reception details.

And in our Runway Report, you’ll find even more glorious gowns to choose from.

Looking your absolute best also means loving your hair, makeup and nails! Check out our guide on how to get those long, luscious locks you crave:

as well as tips from the pros on bridal-perfect nails.

If you’re looking for reception ideas (and what bride isn’t!), then you’ll love all the Pinterest-worthy inspiration in this issue. On our “Party Planner” pages, you’ll find stunning ideas for a rich, regal celebration.

And in our “Dream Themes” feature, more mega choices will inspire with lots of ideas for a nautical, garden, boho or city-chic wedding. 

Another favorite story of mine is our annual gift-giving page featuring products that donate a portion of their sales' proceeds to breast cancer research. I hope you consider one of these fantastic items for yourself or to give as gifts to your nearest and dearest.

Online planning today is a given, and to help you plan smart, save time and navigate the online bridal-planning universe, check out our “Tech-Savvy Planning” guide. You’ll not only discover some of the best new apps available but you’ll also get some invaluable tips from other couples who’ve been there, done that.

Wedding planning goes hand-in-hand with having to spend some money — a huge factor in determining just how many guests you can invite, where and when you marry and how affordable the décor and details need to be. To help you keep your budget on track, we went right to the pros — the industry insiders who know the absolute best ways to stretch your dollars without compromising on style.

Next up: The Honeymoon! Yep, this trip of a lifetime is the ultimate icing on the cake for you and your new husband.

For island bliss, consider the Caribbean: You’ll love these rum-producing destinations for their ideal mix of sun and fun.

You can also completely unwind and shed any residual wedding-day stress at a bucolic hideaway in Mexico:

Or perhaps you’ll opt to stay a bit closer to home and make your way to fabulous New Orleans, where you’ll enjoy the Big Easy’s music, festivities and incredible cuisine.

One of my all-time favorite destinations is the picturesque Amalfi coast — a perfect haven for honeymooners.

And then there are those idyllic honeymoon destinations that couples flock to year after year: Paris, Bali, French Polynesia, and California’s wine country. These getaways continue to enchant honeymooners with their perfect blend romance and relaxation.

There are so many travel choices! Take your time in deciding, and be sure to factor in cost and your personal honeymoon “musts.” No matter where you choose to go, you’re guaranteed the most blissful time and memories that will last a lifetime.

There’s much more in the November/December 2015 issue for you to enjoy — rings, sparkly accessories, etiquette advice, fitness tips and real weddings. In the months ahead, have fun planning your big day, and know that you can always look to Bridal Guide to help with all your planning needs. You’re going to have a fabulous wedding!

—Diane Forden