I’ve just returned from bridal market in New York City, and I am still pinching myself over some of the collections and dresses I viewed during my five-day juggernaut. While I had planned on blogging a bit form the shows, I forgot the USB cord for my computer on my desk, so instead I will spend the next few days filling you in on some of the goodies. But for all of the details and for my complete runway rundown, you’ll have to pick up the January issue of Mpls.St.Paul Weddings.

Now for a quick review . . .

Highlight shows: Reem Acra, Monique Lhuillier, Giles Montezin, Angel Sanchez, and Elizabeth Fillmore

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Attention couples and thank-you note proponents: Don't give up writing those all-important thank-you notes, even if you've reached (or passed) your one-year anniversary. This is Miss Wedding Manners speaking: I know you're busy, stressed, and trying to hold on to your job (or find a new one)! But whatever you do, don't stop handwriting notes to your loved ones.

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The Twin Cities offer myriad wedding hotel choices, from the new and trendy—W Minneapolis-The Foshay, Graves 601, and Hotel Ivy in downtown Minneapolis—to the grand dames—Saint Paul Hotel, Grand Hotel in Minneapolis, and St. James Hotel in Red Wing. One of the newest venues, and well worth a tour, is the Westin Edina Galleria. Here are some smart tips for working with your hotel's catering director, courtesy of Westin catering director Julie Broders:

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Far from intimidated by winter, Margaret Murrell and Jeremy Reed embraced the season in their January 9, 2009 wedding. Featured in our "Seasons of Love" story in the Fall/Winter 2009 issue of Mpls.St.Paul Weddings, Margaret and Jeremy had fun with their outdoor photographs despite the snowy chill.

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If you're considering a hotel reception, consider this: It may be one of the costliest—and smartest—moves of your wedding experience. I say costly in order to be realistic, not to scare you off. This is the Big Ticket Item, ladies. However, if you and your betrothed are expecting a big crowd and want to ensure a smooth celebration, regardless of Minnesota weather and tipsy guests, a hotel may be the way to go.

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Katie Boldt and Damien Carufel, profiled in the "Seasons of Love" feature in our Fall/Winter 2009 issue of Mpls.St.Paul Weddings, chose the University Club in St. Paul for their grand autumn event on November 1, 2008.

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Perhaps more than neckline, train, and even silhouette, nothing really affects the way a wedding gown moves and falls over the curves more than its fabric. From the float of tulle to the cling of jersey, the light reflecting properties of satin to the texture of lace, here is an explanation of some of the most common textiles used in bridal couture. But the most important thing to remember is, no matter what fabric you choose, natural fibers—usually silk, but occasionally cotton or wool—are best.  

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Los Angeles-based couture bridal designer, Monique Lhuillier, has launched a new bridal collection. Bliss by Monique Lhuillier is  a reworking of many of Lhuillier's best selling gowns, and in most cases, at half the price.

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Continuing our series inspired by the "Seasons of Love" feature in our newly released Fall/Winter 2009 issue, here are some bonus images from our summer couple, Jennalyn Kae Jaeger and Scott William Barnes who were married on July 26, 2008.

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In a state known for its season, Minnesota couples often have a favorite when it comes to planning their wedding. In the Fall/Winter 2009 issue of Mpls.St.Paul Weddings, we profile four couples who made the most of the season they chose. Here's a look at some bonus images from our spring couple, Kelly Polston and Greg Bollinger.

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