ORLANDO, Fla., June 9, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- "Summer will be a showstopper this wedding season with these top ten design trends," says celebrity wedding planner and trend expert, Jamie O'Donnell of Jamie O' & Co:

Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150608/221434
Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150608/221433

Modern Princess – Stunning gowns designed with a throwback to the ladylike and iconic style of Princess Grace with beautiful tailoring, gorgeous lace and tulle are bringing a quiet elegance and glamour to weddings this season.

Colored Wedding Gowns – Brides are becoming more fashion forward and expressing their unique style.  We've seen more colored wedding gowns coming out of Bridal Market and mint green or pistachio from Monique L'hullier is one of the newest colors.

Craftsmanship – There is a newfound love for the craftsmanship of vintage jewelry and vintage elements that showcase a passion in design circa 30's and 40's era

Metallics – Metallic elements are still strong for this year and are showing up in new and sparkling ways like full gold and silver wedding cakes.

Feathers – Feathers and natural elements are taking a new form in weddings this year.  Instead of the over the top Gatsby look we've seen over the last few years, feathers are taking more unique and understated role in design showing up in gorgeous feather chandelier lighting, placemats and bridal accessories.

Pantone Colors – While I don't think we will see a lot of Marsala, Pantone's Color of the Year, in wedding design this year, we will see the colors of the season Aqua and Indigo as anchor colors with mint green as a complementary foundation color and bright accents of Strawberry, Tangerine and Custard as a cheery palette.

Meaningful Bouquets – A book of wishes written by guests and family members at events leading up to the wedding so the bride can walk down the aisle carrying all the love and support for her marriage. Floral attached to book as a meaningful and new take on a bridal bouquet that becomes a true heirloom.

Playful Centerpieces - Centerpieces will embody a more deconstructed look and incorporate playful elements of ribbons and glass ornaments with flower blossoms or candles in them

Ceremony Seating - Furniture Pieces and Sofas in place of traditional chairs for Ceremony Seating

A Focus on Love and Storytelling  - A refocusing on telling the story of the couple through thoughtful elements.

Vendor Credit List:
   

   

Wedding Planner & Concept Design:
   

Jamie O' & Co – www.jamieo.co

Photographer:
   

© KV Photography - http://www.kvphotographyonline.com

Venue:
   

Four Seasons Resort, Walt Disney World http://www.fourseasons.com/orlando

Floral Design:
   

Lee Forrest Design – http://leeforrestdesign.com

Hair & Makeup
   

Makeover Station - http://www.makeoverstation.com

Fashion Stylist
   

Fused Fashion - http://www.fusedfashion.com

Feather Chandelier Lights:
   

Vita Lighting – www.vitalighting.com

Linens:
   

Over the Top Linen – http://www.overthetoplinen.com

Invitations:
   

Dragonfly Custom Design - http://dragonflycustomdesign.com

Gowns:
   

The Collection - http://www.thecollectionbridal.com

Suits and Male Accessories:
   

Neiman Marcus – www.neimanmarcus.com

Furniture:
   

AFR Event Furnishings - http://www.afrevents.com

Tableware:
   

Z Gallerie  - www.zgallerie.com

Wedding Rings:
   

Park Avenue Gold Exchange – www.parkavegoldexchange.com

   

   

Images Link:
   

http://kvphotographyonline.pass.us/four-seasons-shoot/

   

Password: fsbridalshoot

   

All images © KV Photography

   

Link includes photos of trends plus traditional and same-sex couple options. Additional images or information available.

About Jamie O'Donnell

Jamie O'Donnell, founder of Jamie O' & Co, is an award-winning celebrity event planner, TV personality and trend spotter who attends global design shows hunting for the newest elements that will set the upcoming trends.

Jamie's events have been featured on E! Entertainment News and in Grace Ormonde Wedding Style Magazine, Atlanta Weddings, The Knot and Bizbash Magazines to name a few.

She is also an event and lifestyle expert to local morning show FOX 35 Good Day Orlando and national morning shows The Daily Buzz and NBC's Daytime TV. Find Jamie at www.jamieo.co or on social media @JamieOandCo

Contact:

Jamie O'Donnell
3212066318
Email

SOURCE Jamie O' & Co
RELATED LINKS
http://www.jamieo.co

10 Jul 2013 11:00 Africa/Lagos

Consumer Reports' Survey: Nine Of 10 Americans Who Haggled Saved Money

But, more than one-third of Americans refused to bargain for better deals on products and services; Plus, six savvy haggling tips


YONKERS, N.Y., July 10, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Consumers who don't haggle are leaving money on the table.  A new nationally representative survey of 2,000 Americans by Consumer Reports found that just 48 percent of shoppers tried bargaining for a better deal on everyday goods and services during the past three years, down from 61 percent in 2007.  And most of those who bothered to negotiate received a discount at least once during that period.

The full report on haggling is available in the August 2013 issue of Consumer Reports and online at www.ConsumerReports.org.

"Don't expect your doctor, bank, or local appliance store to cut you a break simply because you have a nice face and smile.  It takes moxie and self-confidence," said Tod Marks, senior projects editor at Consumer Reports. "Having the guts to ask for a discount can result in hundreds of dollars in savings."

When it comes to haggling, nothing is off limits.  But those who don't take the risk, lose.  In Consumer Reports' survey, 35 percent of respondents said they won't bargain, period.  Men are more likely to haggle than women – 20 percent of women said that it makes them uncomfortable. But both genders were equally successful when they tried. Younger consumers, those 18 to 29, tend to enjoy the practice more than those over 60, who were particularly turned off by it.

Shoppers achieved the highest success haggling over the price of collectibles or antiques, furniture, and appliances according to Consumer Reports' survey.  Schmoozing with a salesperson was the favorite tactic for haggling over collectibles and antiques, where those who negotiated saved $100 on average.  Those who haggled over furniture and questioned a health-related charge saved an average of $300; those who bargained on washers, dryers, refrigerators, and the like, saved $200, on average.

Consumer Reports also found that those who were successful at challenging the cost of a cell-phone plan averaged savings of $80.

Six Haggling Do's
Savvy negotiators know that politeness, friendliness, and a smile are harder to resist than tough talk.  Consumer Reports has compiled the following tips to get to yes:

    Give sellers a reason to negotiate.  Loyal  customers  should  remind  their  merchant  or service provider of their repeated business.  Offering discounts on products or services is a small price to pay to keep customers coming back.

    Ask open-ended questions.  Retailers are more likely to turn down a customer who asks questions that can be answered with a simple yes or no.  Instead of asking for a specific dollar-amount or percentage off an item, ask what they are willing to offer as a discount.

    Decide on a fair price.  Research the cost of any product before buying.  Print out or take screen shots of website pages or written quotes from competitors.  Fifty-seven percent of survey respondents told the salesperson they'd check competitors' prices.  Call the store to confirm that it will match a lower price.  Ask about a refund of the difference if there's a price-drop within a reasonable period of time.  If a discount on the item is out of the question, ask for free shipping, delivery, or installation.

    Seek a discount for cash.  Offering to pay with paper instead of plastic eliminates transaction fees sellers are required to pay to credit-card companies.

    Find flaws.  Retailers are likely to offer discounts on products with cosmetic blemishes or slight defects such as clothing with snags, smudges or stains, and appliances or electronics with dings or scratches.  It's generally easier to negotiate such deals with independent stores than with chains and for private-label products than for big brands because sellers can't return flawed products to their makers for credit.

    Be willing to walk away.  It's expensive for stores to attract new customers, so they're often willing to work hard to retain their existing ones.  But consumers who don't think they're getting a good deal should go elsewhere and try to negotiate a better bargain.

Consumer Reports is the world's largest independent product-testing organization. Using its more than 50 labs, auto test center, and survey research center, the nonprofit rates thousands of products and services annually. Founded in 1936, Consumer Reports has over 8 million subscribers to its magazine, website and other publications. Its advocacy division, Consumers Union, works for health reform, food and product safety, financial reform, and other consumer issues in Washington, D.C., the states, and in the marketplace.

JULY 2013
The material above is intended for legitimate news entities only; it may not be used for advertising or promotional purposes. Consumer Reports® is an expert, independent nonprofit organization whose mission is to work for a fair, just, and safe marketplace for all consumers and to empower consumers to protect themselves.  We accept no advertising and pay for all the products we test. We are not beholden to any commercial interest. Our income is derived from the sale of Consumer Reports®, ConsumerReports.org ® and our other publications and information products, services, fees, and noncommercial contributions and grants. Our Ratings and reports are intended solely for the use of our readers. Neither the Ratings nor the reports may be used in advertising or for any other commercial purpose without our permission. Consumer Reports will take all steps open to it to prevent commercial use of its materials, its name, or the name of Consumer Reports®.

SOURCE Consumer Reports
CONTACT: Melissa Valentino 914.378.2432, Consumer Reports, mvalentino@consumer.org

Web Site: www.ConsumerReports.org

27 Jun 2013 11:00 Africa/Lagos
   
Consumer Reports: Consumers Can Save 40 Percent Or More On Eyeglasses By Shopping Online and at Discount Retailers
Costco tops ratings of eyeglass chains and other discounters

YONKERS, N.Y., June 27, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Buying eyeglasses from the eye doctor's office is convenient, but can be costly.  Comparison shopping among different types of eyewear stores including online and discount retailers takes time but can save consumers 40 percent or more.  Consumer Reports' most recent survey about its readers' eyeglass-shopping experiences found that Costco was a standout for overall satisfaction – including cost – among chains such as EyeMasters, LensCrafters, Pearle Vision, and Sears Optical and other discounters including BJ's Optical, Sam's Club Optical, and Walmart Vision Center.

The full report and Ratings of eyeglass retailers are available in the August 2013 issue of Consumer Reports and online at www.ConsumerReports.org.

"If you want a deal on eyeglasses, step outside the optometrist's office before deciding to buy," said Tony Giorgianni, Associate Editor for Consumer Reports. "By doing a little research and shopping around, it's possible to get a great pair of glasses and save money."

Consumer Reports surveyed almost 19,500 readers to find out how much they paid for eyeglasses and to gauge their level of satisfaction regarding their overall shopping experience for them. Frame selection, customer service and employee expertise were among the attributes also rated.  Respondents spent a median of $244 out-of-pocket on their last pair of prescription specs.

Despite its fair rating for its selection of frames, Costco earned top marks for cost, quality and follow-up service.  While readers were essentially pleased with their purchase at retailers like EyeMasters, Pearle Vision and Sears Optical, results were mixed.  LensCrafters was singled out as the place to get eyewear the fastest – almost half of readers who shopped there had their glasses the same or next day.

Consumer Reports found that online eyeglass retailers offer a huge selection and low prices.  Consumers can save significantly by shopping sites such as FramesDirect.com, SimplyEyeglasses.com, Eyeglasses.com, and LensesRx.com.  New sites such as Zenni Optical (zennioptical.com), Warby Parker (warbyparker.com) and Classic Specs (classicspecs.com), offer a complete single-vision pair of specs for less than $100, but they primarily sell their own proprietary glasses.

Remember, online buying means having to wait for the glasses to arrive in the mail and shipping them back if there's a problem and these sites don't provide the in-person service customers would get at a walk-in store, which could be a problem if frames need adjusting, for example. Shoppers shouldn't expect online shops to take vision insurance, but they may be able to obtain reimbursement from their provider.

Buying Advice

There are many choices and factors to consider when buying eyeglasses – and it can be easy lose sight of finding a good deal. Consumer Reports suggests the following tips for those in the market for a new a pair of lenses and frames:

    Research online. Even if the plan is to buy locally, consider reading how-to information on websites such as Eyeglasses.com and LensesRx Online Optical. Knowing something about the types of frames, lenses and coatings can help consumers understand their options and sense whether a store or website is trying to up-sell them.
    Get a doctor's recommendation. If a current prescription is more than a year old, have an optometrist or ophthalmologist do an eye check before ordering new glasses.  Request that the doctor measures and records pupillary distance, which is needed to order lenses online.
    Negotiate. If frames available locally are priced for less online, give the walk-in store a chance to match or at least come close to the best online price. Remember, a walk-in shop can provide frame adjustments and other post-purchase services that can be difficult or impossible to get online, so it may be worth paying extra.
    Check warranties and return policies. A good retailer should have at least a one-year warranty against defects in frames. For instance, Eyeglasses.com says most of its frames are covered by the manufacturer for one or two years and that it will process warranty claims on the customer's behalf.

Consumer Reports is the world's largest independent product-testing organization. Using its more than 50 labs, auto test center, and survey research center, the nonprofit rates thousands of products and services annually. Founded in 1936, Consumer Reports has over 8 million subscribers to its magazine, website and other publications.  Its advocacy division, Consumers Union, works for health reform, product safety, financial reform, and other consumer issues in Washington, D.C., the states, and in the marketplace.

JUNE 2013

The material above is intended for legitimate news entities only; it may not be used for advertising or promotional purposes. Consumer Reports® is an expert, independent nonprofit organization whose mission is to work for a fair, just, and safe marketplace for all consumers and to empower consumers to protect themselves.  We accept no advertising and pay for all the products we test. We are not beholden to any commercial interest. Our income is derived from the sale of Consumer Reports®, ConsumerReports.org® and our other publications and information products, services, fees, and noncommercial contributions and grants. Our Ratings and reports are intended solely for the use of our readers. Neither the Ratings nor the reports may be used in advertising or for any other commercial purpose without our permission. Consumer Reports will take all steps open to it to prevent commercial use of its materials, its name, or the name of Consumer Reports®.

SOURCE Consumer Reports
CONTACTS: Melissa Valentino, Consumer Reports, 914.378.2432, mvalentino@consumer.org, or Cassie Eberle 704.987.4112, Catalyst, ceberle@catalystimg.com

Web Site: http://www.consumerreports.org

15 May 2013 11:00 Africa/Lagos
   
Consumer Reports Gas Grill Tests: Weber's Spirit Line Tops Latest Ratings
Five features to look for when buying a grill; Plus, great grilling accessories that add sizzle to any cook out

YONKERS, N.Y., May 15, 2013 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --  In Consumer Reports' new Ratings of more than 100 gas grills, models from Weber's Spirit line were among the highest scoring in its latest tests.  The full report on gas grills, which includes comprehensive buying advice and reviews of great gadgets for grilling fish, veggies, and more, is featured in the June 2013 issue of Consumer Reports and online at www.ConsumerReports.org.

Models from Weber's recently revamped Spirit line received high scores in Consumer Reports' tests.  The top-rated, mid-sized Weber Spirit SP-320, $600, and small-sized Weber Spirit E-220, $450, preheated quickly and evenly, and were superb at high- and low-temperature evenness.  And both have electronic igniters and long burner warranties which are among Consumer Reports' desirable features for gas grills.

In the large grills category, Consumer Reports' top performers included the KitchenAid 720-0709C, $800, and the Master Forge 3218LTN, $600. The KitchenAid, available at Sam's Club, was quick to preheat and capable once it did, while the Master Forge, available at Lowe's, offered fine performance, mostly stainless-steel styling, a folding prep table and lots of storage at a relatively low price.

"You don't always get what you pay for if you choose the most expensive grill on the market," said Celia Kuperszmid Lehrman, Deputy Home Editor for Consumer Reports. "Some budget-friendly models delivered impressive performance and came with the bonus of electronic igniters and long warranties for burners – something to look for if you're hoping to stick with your grill for the long haul."

Five Features that Count

More grills now have convenient features such as electronic igniters, fuel gauges, illuminated control knobs for nighttime grilling, and fold-down shelves for food prep. Here are five gas-grill features to consider when buying:

1. Electronic igniters are usually easier and more reliable than a rotary or push-button starter.
 2. Rounded edges are safer than sharp ones, especially if kids are afoot. To test a grill's sturdiness, nudge it in several places, and press down on the side shelf to see if it will support a heavy pot.
3. Burner warranties of 10 years or longer are a plus since burners are the most frequently replaced part.
4. Stainless steel or coated cast-iron grates tend to be better for searing, though stainless is more durable.
5. The cooking surface should be big enough to fit enough food to feed a griller's usual crowd. Larger grills usually have bigger cooking areas, but not always. Keep in mind, Consumer Reports doesn't count warming racks and searing burners in its measurements, but manufacturers might.

Great Grilling Gadgets

Consumer Reports' also tried out grill gadgets – including veggie, fish, and rib cookers, and pizza stones.  Here's what testers found.

    Master Forge grill wok[ 25375, $17 (Lowe's). Keeps smaller batches of vegetables or small fish such as shrimp or scallops from going overboard due to its deeper sides and bowl-like shape, but a large amount of food might cook unevenly if it's piled up.
    Brinkmann flexible grilling basket 812-9012, $16 (Home Depot). Cooks large quantities of thin fish fillets such as sole or tilapia, or vegetables cut flat such as eggplant or zucchini because of its 24x16-inch surface area, but all food must be the same thickness or thinner items may fall out when the basket is flipped over. Its large size also made it awkward to flip, open to remove food, and wash.
    Weber original rib and roast holder, $20. Cooks full racks of ribs upright on large grills. Testers cooked a roast, turning it once, and it came out just as well as one cooked on a grill spit. But testers couldn't close medium-sized grill lids when they placed this big holder front-to-back to hold full racks of ribs because it stuck out.
    Weber Style pizza stone 6430, $50. Cooks one large pizza or several personal-sized ones. A handle allows users to easily move the stone from the grill or rotate during cooking to adapt to hotter spots and a holder elevates the stone so it's not as likely to crack if placed on a wet surface, for example when removed from the grill. However, the metal holder, like the stone, will be burning hot when moved from the grill, so Consumer Reports recommends using oven mitts and caution.

Consumer Reports is the world's largest independent product-testing organization. Using its more than 50 labs, auto test center, and survey research center, the nonprofit rates thousands of products and services annually. Founded in 1936, Consumer Reports has over 8 million subscribers to its magazine, website and other publications.  Its advocacy division, Consumers Union, works for health reform, product safety, financial reform, and other consumer issues in Washington, D.C., the states, and in the marketplace.

MAY 2013
The material above is intended for legitimate news entities only; it may not be used for advertising or promotional purposes. Consumer Reports® is an expert, independent nonprofit organization whose mission is to work for a fair, just, and safe marketplace for all consumers and to empower consumers to protect themselves.  We accept no advertising and pay for all the products we test. We are not beholden to any commercial interest. Our income is derived from the sale of Consumer Reports®, ConsumerReports.org® and our other publications and information products, services, fees, and noncommercial contributions and grants. Our Ratings and reports are intended solely for the use of our readers. Neither the Ratings nor the reports may be used in advertising or for any other commercial purpose without our permission. Consumer Reports will take all steps open to it to prevent commercial use of its materials, its name, or the name of Consumer Reports®.

SOURCE Consumer Reports
CONTACT: Melissa Valentino Consumer Reports, 914.378.2432, mvalentino@consumer.org or Cassie Eberle, Catalyst, 704.987.4112, cassie.eberle@imgworld.com

Web Site: http://www.ConsumerReports.org