WE'VE MOVED

Check out our new blog at www.chocolatebrides.com!

Chicken Soup For The Chocolate Bride

Chicken Soup For The Chocolate Bride’s Soul

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New Chocolate-ness....

Hello Family!

The rebirth is here!!!!!!!!!!!! Please visit our new blog at www.chocolatebrides.com !

And Now A Word From THE Chocolate Bride..

Greetings Chocolate Brides, Grooms, Visitors, Admirers & Extended Family:

Chocolate Brides is preparing for a huge relaunch. As a result, we have decided to close this blog. We are going to come back bigger, brighter, better and chocolatey-er, than ever before. Please be sure to "JOIN OUR SITE" now (right over there underneath the red banner) so that we can inform you of when the new site goes live.

Love, Peace & Chocolateyness

A Lil' Father's Day Love!

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!

Finally Found One...

After a year of looking high and low for a bridal Beyonce picture, I found one. Not exactly sure if this image is an 'actual' bridal portrait...but hey....it's better than nothing.

The Secret Sauce

As we have all learned over the past couple of weeks, marriage aint for everybody. Having celebrity status doesn't make you prone to divorce. (ie: Usher & Tameka - -Nas & Kelis)

1/2 of one of our favorite Chocolate Couples did an recent interview at Redbook recently and she's letting us in on her secret sauce.

Nice outfits and high heels! And talking. And making time. You’ve got to make time. Our men want to feel important. We want to feel important. So it’s about establishing an environment in which that can happen. It can be hard because we get caught in the grind of life. Establish relationships with family members or friends and take turns with each other’s kids so you can make that time for yourselves. It doesn’t take a lot of money - wallets are tight right now - so just simple stuff. A night walk? Man, do I love those. Or pack a lunch and go to the park, like Will and I did. Even a drive - and then pull over on the side of the road! Think of places outside that are comfortable to have sex. Does he have access to his office? Have a fantasy date. Be his secretary! Be sneaky. Your girlfriend’s house at a party. The bathroom! A guest bedroom! Just switch it up. Anything like that can keep it going. Anything it takes to keep the flame alive.

Jada also revealed in a recent interview with Ebony Magazine that her marriage with Will shall last 'til the end of time...

When Will asked me to get married, I said, ‘Understand this, there will be no divorce. So, you might be in one bedroom and I might be in another, but we’re gonna be under the same roof and we’re gonna be married”.

Chocolate Brides Song Receive Rave Reviews!

Skip, author of the Chocolate Bride Theme Song & his beautiful Chocolate Bride, GMA Bride

Taken from RadioIndy.com

Layered, smooth-as-chocolate-silk harmonies are the order of the day on Skip Mahoney and the Casuals' 5-track CD, "Chocolate Brides Theme Song," an impeccable R&B ballad as old school as it is modern. Romantic and affirmative, and timeless in its celebration of love and marriage, "Chocolate Brides" is - as its name implies, a unique and soulful paean to the 21st century African-American bride. Delivering five different remixes, Skip Mahoney & the Casuals offer one performance specifically tailored to the old school crowd, another featuring the vocal group S.O.L.E. that's geared to the contemporary R&B fan, one with S.O.L.E.'s neo-soul flourishes, plus two instrumental versions perfect for the dance floor. On all three of the vocal renditions, however, Mahoney's splendid tenor and flights of falsetto proves the perfect foil for group harmonies that recall such R&B stalwarts as The O'Jays or The Spinners. As each generation produces its own particular wedding songs, Skip Mahoney and the Casuals' CD, "Chocolate Brides Theme Song," just might be the perfect wedding disc for the contemporary African-American couple wanting to add a special – chocolate – flavor to their nuptials.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team

Support ChocolateBrides! And groove at the same time!

ChocolateBrides is home to so many talented and inspirational people. One such couple are Skip and Renee, affectionately known on the boards as Poppa Skip and Mom Renee! In honor of the website that has blessed us all so much, Poppa Skip and his group, Skip Mahoney and the Casuals have produced a cd featuring the ChocolateBrides Theme Song. Please support this awesome group while also supporting ChocolateBrides as well!

excerpt taken from the Notes on the ChocolateBrides Theme Song CD baby page:

Skip Mahoney and The Casuals have on the R&B music scene for approximately 40 years singing love ballads with Skip's melodic falsetto. S.O.L.E. is a neo-soul group based in the Washington Metro area that Skip tapped to help him produce this project. Turns out their sound was reminiscent of Old School R&B, but with today's flair. Skip also believes this album is a first for an artist to release his original song with a new group remake and a re-mix from each group and the instrumental on the same release.



Chocolate Brides is a tribute to Love, but especially black love. It is a song that disputes the negative belief that African-Americans do not marry or commit to Love. Skip's wife is a member of ChocolateBrides.com, which she joined when they were planning their wedding. He loved the commitment and camaraderie he saw amongst the members that he decided to write a song for the members. He especially admired the owner/creator of the site, Kesha Monk and her husband Eugene Myrick. Kesha is a well known DJ in the NY, Chicago and Los Angeles area. It was Kesha's vision to create a place for brides of color to plan their unique wedding day and to share a special sisterhood and also allowing future spouses and significant others to participate in the fun. The site generates an air of family whenever it is visited.



The cd has the song in 3 genres, Old Skool R&B, contemporary R&B and instrumental (suitable for that trip down the aisle.



Sit back and enjoy this tribute to love.

Click Here to listen and purchase this awesome CD!

Pure Chocolate Splendor!

I was going to blog this beautiful story myself but the photographer, Shannon Smith of 831 Photography(Akron, Ohio) worded it so well, I simply decided to ask his permission to repost his blogging of the wedding of Stacey and Ernest! Enjoy!

Stacey & Ernest's Wedding

What a beautiful wedding at the Akron Civic Theatre. I was totally impressed with the style and organization of LW Special Event Planning from Los Angeles, California. LaTonya was super easy to work with, and kept everything right on track.

Stacey had a very unique way of receiving her bouquet - the women in her life most important to her each delivered a flower, and at the end, her mother hand tied the flowers into a bouquet - very original!

If you've never had the pleasure of visiting the Akron Civic Theatre, I'd suggest you make time! It's a very beautiful location, in the middle of being restored to it's original glory. The ceremony took place in the Grand Foyer, an absolutely amazing room with beautiful carvings, artwork, and lighting. The manager was extremely helpful, basically giving us full access to all the amazing areas of one of the most unique theaters in the country. It is only one of a handful of theaters in the US that have an ambient ceiling - projected clouds, twinkling lights, and a seamless look. You'd swear you were outdoors!

Thanks again to an amazing couple for letting us capture your day. Stacey & Ernest, best wishes for your future!

Shan

MochaWifey's thoughts:

1. Thanks again Shan, Stacy & Ernest and LW Events for sharing with us!
2. BEAUTIFUL use of the natural architecture and decor of the Civic Center! For CB insight on selecting great venues, click here.
3. The ChocolateBrides are LOVING the birdcage veils...click here for more pics and ideas on them!
4. Obvious great job on selecting a photographer! CB's, click here to view a beautiful slideshow of these fabulous Chocolate nuptials by visiting the 831 Photography blog!
5. Seamless selection of a great event planner! LA CB's, be sure to check out LW Events!
   

Glory!!!!!!

We WILL return shortly! But in the meantime, enjoy the following video. It will make you laugh!

CB Notable Quotables : Chronicles of a Borderline Bridezilla Part 1 1/2 by CB Lilspyce

The following post was written by a current member of ChocolateBrides.com one year ago, prior to her May 2008 wedding! Thanks for the insight LilSpyce and Happy 1 Year Anniversary!

**************************************************************************************


For the past year and half that we’ve been engaged I have learned so many things about myself and about our relationship. Actually during the first six months I didn’t do any planning because I was still in the shock stage of being engaged and getting married. It was too good to be true. But for those of you who haven’t reached that experience let me give you some tips... Before you start, get ready because it’s a long one.

1. THIS IS YOUR WEDDING!!! Not your mama’s, not your best friends, not your sister’s. Do what YOU wanna do for YOUR WEDDING. If you want Big Bird to launch right off of the front stairs of the church and fly off into the sunset as you walk out of the church, call Sesame Street and get it done! The reason I say this is because we can be some really caring individuals and when our friends and/or family say they want this (in your wedding) or they want to wear a certain dress or they want vellum on the invitations, we tend to cater to them knowing that’s not what you wanted to do. Five years from now, you will still be trippin over things you didn’t think went right or you wish you could change, while that person five years from now won’t give a flying fluky! If they call you a bridezilla, sometimes that is more of a compliment.

2. Don’t get it twisted! The planning period is also part of the premarital counseling! There have been times I could’ve bust my baby’s head (forget about white meat) I’m talkin about to the skull! But I love him even more, because I’ve been blessed to have a man that wants to participate in this planning process (when I’ve heard of so many women that future husbands left it all on her). I already know it was times he could’ve choked me out. There are times when he will forget about something you asked him to do. There will be times when she’s snappy and you would think she’s possessed and cross the line of no return. Or times the Groom will not take something as serious as you. Don’t pay them no mind, relax, take a breather, keep pushin and work it out. If you can’t make it through this, your marriage will not stand as strong as you think.

3. Make sure you pick people in your wedding party who are they to TRULY SUPPORT YOU (this is so critical so please pay attention). It’s one thing to buy a dress and walk down the aisle. But the true bridesmaid/ groomsman(s) will call you (you won’t have to call them) and ask "what have you done as far as planning", "have you picked out a dress, if not let’s go find one", "do you need help with anything..." If they are late on their dress payment, they will contact YOU and let you know their situation (Guess what, there is no reason you should have to call and ask them.) I really have to thank some of my bridesmaids on this they have really been there for me and pushed me at times I didn’t feel like doing anything. Your true bridesmaids are like will say don’t worry about your cake server or bookmarks and take care of it, and help you out on 200 invitations. Or others will stalk and make you get out and check out bridal shows, dresses, venues, and work in a sweat shop to get 200 invitations done. Some, even though they may be the youngest may help out whenever needed and told me just to take a seat. Or some who has traveled on public transportation for 4 hours just to meet me at work so she can be with me when I bought my dress (how many of you have SISTER like that), designed my aisle runner and told me not to worry, stalked me about planning and also worked in the sweatshop. And even one friend who lives at least an hour away has called and asked "do you need help?", "I have some books for you".... My friends have their hands completely full, and came to me and said let me know what you want for a bridal shower, and are taking care it themselves as the others plan the bachelorette party. I’ve been truly kicked out of that process. My cousin sat with my sister and cut and prepped my table card numbers (they’re teens! I couldn’t get that from some grown folks!) His best man has jumped on the responsibility of getting the guys in to get fitted for their tux. Whatever I ask of some of my groomsmen they’ll do (ex: burning 100 music CD’s) Even my fiance's sister has told me, if you all need help let me know. Through my bridezilla times, they have truly been there suckin it in and having my back. That is what a bridesmaid purpose is...to support you and have YOUR back! The bridesmaid is the representation of support as your stand at the altar. And the bridesmaid will oblige to you because they truly care and are happy for you. So even if a person asked to be a bridesmaid, remember this is one of the most special days in your life. They don’t have to be in your wedding because they’ve known you for 15 years, hell your family has known you for all of your life, but there is a reason you didn’t put your relatives in it.

4. More Harm than Good. Some people may bring more harm then help. You will have some people who will call you and say I’ll help! But you already know they might screw it up. I don’t care if it’s your mother! If you think the end result will be poppin a cap in their ass, let them stay home. They love you and you love them, but be as polite as possible and tell them no. Make sure you have a team that mesh together on your "Sweatshop" projects (ex: favors, inviations, save the dates, etc.,.). Once again, no one is as critical to this wedding as you are-this is YOUR DAY. No one else knows what you want and how you want it but YOU. And once again, five years from now, no one will care but you!

5. Friends and associates. Just as this is a part of pre-marital counseling this is a trial between you and your true friends. Dealing with Tip 3, you will learn who your true friends are and those of you who I call "band wagon jumpers" a.k.a associates. Band wagon jumpers will jump on anything that is good, but when the goin gets tough, they find another band wagon to jump on. BEWARE because you will most likely see this. The one person you wouldn’t think would be a perpetrator.... will! I’m tellin you folks, people will come out of pocket that you would never expect! They have not come to the understanding that it is not about them. Fortunately, I already knew this coming in and some of my predictions were right so it’s not as hard for me as I thought it would be.

6. Stick to your budget!!! I’ve been watching a truckload of Bridezillas, Rich Bride Poor bride to learn to stick to your budget!! I’ve watched so many episodes where they took out a second mortgage, bounced $12,000 in checks, maxed out credit cards. You know how much money you have. If your income is $30,000 a year, why are you trying to spend $20,000 on a reception alone! If you want an expensive looking wedding, then get out there and hustle for it. Just because it looks expensive doesn’t mean it has to be expensive. Get out there and hustle, become best friends with sales ads! One thing I can truly thank my mother for is the teachings of budget shopping. On the other hand, I’ve also inherited the eye of expensive things. I can walk into a store and everytime I can pick the ten most expensive things in there. There is only a few things that I have bought full price- everything else has been discounted at least 50% off! Another way to save money, cut kids from reception activities. I know you love them, but do you really want to spend $30 on a plate that kids will play around in. Of course, the kids in the wedding should be invited, but a way to make sure all of the mature guests have a seat in your 250 room occupancy, leave the kids out! If you have open bar, you want to make sure that as many guests as possible can take advantage of an amenity you came out of your pocket for! Some people will complain, but then again....TOUGH TITTY! They can invite kids to their own reception (but I’ll bet they will second think that idea when they’re bill is coming out to $10,000! for the reception alone...)

7. DIY!!! For those of you who don’t know, DIY means Do-It-Yourself. If you’re like the rest of us that didn’t have a silver spoon in your mouth, this will become a term you will truly know. This will reduce the price of things tremendously. I’ve reduced my flower cost by at least $300 because we did the bridesmaid bouquets ourselves. I’ll be damned if I spend $20-30 on a bouquet for someone who hasn’t called me or been the least bit supportive just for them to throw it away in the matter of days. I might as well turn myself into jail now, because I’m definitely asking for a case. Screw that!! The cheapest invitation that I’ve found (that actually looked like a wedding invitation) was $130 for 100 invitations. We’re doing pocketfolds so if you don’t know we’ve saved at least $500 because we’re doing our invitations ourselves. It’ll be a lil more work but it’s worth it and it will definitely bring the more artistic side out of you that you didn’t know you had.

8. Don’t let no monkey stop your show!!! I don’t care if that monkey is your mother. Sometimes, the people that are dear to us, will cause us the most grief. Mostly, this is not done to hurt you, but some people do not truly understand the wedding process. There will be times, you feel like jumpin on a plane to Vegas and elope. Be calm, and remember it will be well worth it for your special day.

9. Internet vs. In-store. The internet is not always the best buy. I interact with a lot of brides-to-be (this is the time to plug Chocolatebrides.com) and they purchase everything offline. Don’t you believe it!!! Prices online look good but when you add tax and shipping into the matter, it might have been cheaper to purchase it inside of a store. One thing you will have to do is just window shop, price things. Research store sales. Ooooo!!! candle holders are on sale 25% off. STOP in two weeks, they will be 50% off. Become best friends with....
Michaels
Hobby Lobby
Dollar Tree
Family Dollar
Walmart
Sam’s Club
Costco’s
Paper Source
LCI Paper (online)
Hancock Fabrics
Jo-Ann Fabrics
Factory Card Outlet
Party City
Thrift Stores
Oriental Trading Company
Clark & Montrose Wholesale District (Chicago)
And of course....EBAY

Some of yall are looking like..."I don’t do Thrift Stores or Dollar Stores". Then you are a true fool!! FYI, those two stores are hidden treasures. A lot of their stock is overstock from big chains like Macy’s, Target, Crate N’ Barrel, etc., and there is nothing wrong with the product, it just didn’t sell well in that store or they ordered too much of the product. Especially check out the thrift stores in the "wealthy area". Also, check out and call some wholesale stores, if you tell them what you are doing, sometimes they will be happy to let you in their stores to shop. For instance I wanted floralytes for my centerpieces and they ranged about $39 for 10 (without tax or shipping). I jumped in the yellow pages and talked to floral stores to find them. I found the the lights in a wholesale store but when I called and inquired she told me to come in that same day and she would work it out for me. I ended up spending $40 for 20 and if I saw something else, to go get it!! Once again, this is where you learn about true hustlin. Anyone can go to the corner and sell a nick. But I can also, find some bridal jewelry that cost $85 but pay only $.75 on sale (that’s 75 cents) and I did!

10. Bridal Journals. Register with a bridal site so you can see what other brides have done (keyword: NETWORK). Get some ideas you may have never thought of. For instance (time to plug again), I registered with Chocolatebrides.com and I’ve learned so much from those ladies. In addition to that, they are supportive and encouraging of your wedding planning when no one else is, because they have been there or are still dealing with it. Create a journal (when you cross into that world it will be a "J") and post your vents, ideas, and pictures. A great way to keep track of what your doing. In addition to that you will get supporters that will keep up to date with your daily interactions of wedding planning. During this process you will need it. They’ll call and instant message you about your progress and will also send a "butt-kick" smiley when you ain’t been on the job. I love them so much!!! Not only that, it’s a way to swap items you purchased and don’t need anymore. Or someone might have just married and they’ll pass on those 10 boxes of votive candles they don’t need for free.

Last but not least, (actually number 1 to me) get right with God (not just you, but you and him/her)!!! He is our best supporter and provider. Things will not go right if you don’t have him in your life. There were times, I started trippin because money situations flipped out and I didn’t know what to do. God stepped in and said "I got this!" and made a way out of no way. I have taken money from one aspect of this wedding and invested money in something I didn’t plan to and he provided a way to still get things done! I have seen so many blessings in these past months that I lose my composure as I sit here and type this. If you open up and confess to God, you don’t know what God has in store for you. First of all, he has blessed me with such a supportive and loving man, he’ll do whatever I ask of him. Four years ago, as I set in a room, I had no idea that I was looking at my husband and two of my biggest supporters. How many of you can say I have girlfriends who will work hours on invitations into the morning, how many of you can say you have a girl who will jump on public transportation for four hours just to meet you so you can make a payment on your dress and then go home! How many of your girlfriends venture out with you every other day to do "window shopping" for your wedding plans. How many of you have girlfriends where you can snap off and then they’ll look like "who you talkin to..." and do whatever you TOLD them to do without hesitations. How many of you have friends that are excited about the fact that they’re booking a condo and going all out for your party!

Folks, your relationship will not last if you don’t put GOD first. Forget that, I’m just spiritual crap! I’m a believer of GOD!! If you don’t you, are leaving that relationship open for any and all negativity to come in. When that money situation get too much, praise and give it to God! When the people you thought were your friends start fallin to the curbside, get on your knees and praise God for blessing you with the few that will go through the fire for you (and then commence to kickin them to the curb). Let go of that pride and envious spirit and give it to GOD!!! When you do, watch how many things start fallin into place. What’s so ironic is a year ago my fiance and I gave it back to God. And from then on (even before that), God has truly worked it out for all of us.

Why Chocolate Brides?

"You know, as a black woman, I just don't see the point. Why do we have to be so separate all the time? I mean, you don't see Asian Brides or Latina Brides magazines, do you? I'm just gon stick with the magazines I got, ain't no point of us making ourselves MORE separate. See, that's what get on my nerves, black folk always got to be making a fuss about....."

Sound familiar?


I've heard this argument so many times in the past five years of my life in the ChocolateBrides family. Well-meaning black women choosing to tear down the self-pride CB tries to partake of in the interest of being unified with the mass media as a whole. For a while, I did begin to feel a bit ashamed. When telling coworkers what magazine I worked for, I would hesitate a little before stating CHOCOLATEbrides, and simply state that I wrote for a bridal blog and mag. I would feel a little, I guess racist, when I would finally reveal that it was a bridal conglomerate which catered specifically to African-American brides. Some caucassian coworkers did give off that "oh" face when I said it, while others simply looked like, "well isn't that cute".

This post won't be long, so let me get to the point. I was in Borders today. I bought my beautiful goddaughter a book to read and then we waited near the entrance for my husband to return from the restroom. While we stood there, in the magazine section, in the year 2009, I looked down at the bridal section and EVERY SINGLE cover, featured a caucassian-american bride. Every hairstyle was blonde or light brunette tendrils cascading over heartshape strapless bodices. Every face showed rosy cheeks with pale pink shoulders, and I had to admit, as I stood there, that it frustrated me. Not so much for myself, because I am nearing my fourth anniversary and through the help of CB, I found my own way. My frustration was for the others. The other woman who cannot seem to figure out how her beautiful loc'd tresses will ever fit the stereotype of the bride. The other black woman who's predisposition to voluptuous curves and bubbly silhouette tends to make visits to bridal boutiques embarassing and hurtful. The woman who does NOT have the resources nor the family structure to allow the lavish and over-zealous affairs written about in these other magazines.

I was frustrated and angry for HER.

ChocolateBrides exists because we DO need a place to embrace one another.
ChocolateBrides exists because we DO deserve a small piece of the bridal world that we can put our own stamp on.
ChocolateBrides exists because we DO have cultural, ethnic, physical, sociological and financial differences from the rest of the world.

And you know what?

That is okay.

It does not make us racist, divisive, obnoxious, or arrogant.
What it does is help us show the world that we are beautiful, frugal, creative, imaginative, resourceful, loving, loveable, and yes, dare I say it MARRIAGE MATERIAL.

So, the next time you find yourself in a conversation that asks, "Why ChocolateBrides?" please, for the sake of progress, ask, "Whatever would we do withOUT it?"

Tiny & TI Are Getting Married...we think...

That's what the word on the street is. Before TI goes to jail, he wants to make it official with his longtime girlfriend and mother of his children, Tameka Cottle aka "Tiny".

But you know how rumors get started....which is why we are bringing this news to you with a little hesitation. Congratulations to the Chocolate Couple!

Flashin' Back...

First of all, please accept our apologies for our extended absence. I think we're experiencing a tad bit of social networking overload. Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, Chocolate Brides Radio...when will the madness cease? We must learn how to give equal time amongst all outlets.

So....

Happy Anniversary Toni Braxton! It was 8 years ago today, when Toni jumped the broom with her husband Keri Lewis. Handel's "Arrival of the Queen of Sheba" played prior to the processional in Altanta. Usher, Chante Moore, Tionne Watkins and T Boz and Chilli from TLC were among the 250 guests who stood in honor of the bride as she walked past to the sounds of Wagner's "Bridal Chorus". She wore a beautiful Vera Wang wedding dress. She is definitely one of our favorite celebrity Chocolate Brides of all time!

There Are Chocolate Brides...Then There Are Chocolate Menus!

Brides are often given the pain staking responsibility of choosing the perfect wedding favor for her guests. Candles, matches, CDs...the possibilities are endless.

Here's another idea to throw into the mix. The Chocolate Edible Menu! I love this idea because it's something that anyone can find useful....that is, if they like chocolate. Even if they don't, they can give it to someone who does! Love it. Different, unique & personal.

J Hud Sets A Wedding Date

Jennifer Hudson announced last week on the Ryan Seacrest show that she is moving forward with her wedding plans. Jennifer is engaged to David Otunga. (we don't care what anyone says, David is a cutie!)
Congratulations Jennifer! You are going to make one beautiful Chocolate Bride! Ummmm....can we come to the wedding? Nah....just joking...but not really though.

A Theme With Such Regality!

click to enlarge

Just when we thought that we had explored every color combination for a wedding, we found this dazzling Peacock Theme.  Having a Peacock colored theme can give a bride a unique opportunity to incorporate an irridescent shimmer to her color scheme. The possibilities are endless...from turquoise, different shades of green and blues adding a touch of silver or gray. This theme definitely has earned 2 CB snaps and a finger roll.

Notable Quotable

"I definitely respect and understand people's curiosity, but people, they have to trust me when I speak on my truth...If I say to you, 'I don't have an open marriage,' 'No, we're not gay,' and you don't trust that, well then there's nothing that I really have to say to anybody about anything, because at the end of the day, I'm living my life, and I'm happy."

-- Jada Pinkett Smith addressing rumors about her marriage to actor Will Smith.

New Stuff on Chocolate Brides Radio

((DRUMROLL PLEASE))

Chocolate Brides is PLEASE to announce a new feature on Chocolate Brides Radio! Not only are we excited about this 'new feature', we're extra excited about it's host!

Be sure to tune in Thursdays at 9PM for THE HONEYMOON SUITE hosted by Mike SMOOTH. Everything mellow, romantic & smooth will be played in the Honeymoon Suite! Be sure to check him out!

The CB Unique Idea Of The Week

Aren't these portraits adorable??  The good folks at Picture Yourself can take your childhood photographs and create these beautifully unique portraits.  You can personalize your wedding day and incorporate it into anything! They even have cake toppers!  Kudos to Picture Yourself!

Black Marriage Day

On my way to church this morning, I turned on the radio while Bob Slade of 98.7 KISS FM was talking about Chocolate Brides! After I nearly fainted, I continued to listen to an interview with Nisa I. Muhammad as she explained a concept called, Black Marriage Day which is March 22, 2009.

Naturally, we're a little frustrated...as we definitely could have put together a HUGE event in honor of Black Marriage Day. We're just learning about BMD. Maybe next year?

In the meantime, be sure to check out their website at www.BlackMarriageDay.Com

MochaWifey's Random thoughts "Get your head in the game!"

When I hear of a newly engaged bride, I usually offer my congratulations, some starting points on the wedding planning process, and OF COURSE hand them a copy of the CB Mag and a link to the messageboard {wink}. There is so much excitement in those first few weeks of engagement. The elation of being engaged generally propels new brides into a dead-on planning mode that is just full of smiles and relaxed joy. However, often by the time the bride has reached the first disappointment of the planning cycle; trying on a dress that doesn't fit her the way she imagined, or finding out that the church is booked on the date she's always dreamed of, there is some disturbance in the way she once looked at planning. Many brides will reach, "the wall", and just shut down. I can understand. However, as my mother would say, "One Monkey Don't Stop No Show!" Get up, dust yourself off, and get your head in the game! Don't let the disappointments that come with planning discourage you or knock you off track! Get motivated, remember why you're doing all this in the first place, remember it is okay to take a break once in a while, and then jump back in the game. Oh, and if you you need some more motivation, I know this great messageboard where supportive women will just take you right i-....oh, you already know that don't you? {wink}

Kudos To Gray Photography!

gray photography

It been nearly 6 years since our wedding and I STILL regret hiring a mediocre wedding photographer. He was a sweet guy (bless his little heart) - but he didn't do a good job at capturing our wedding day. (and he wasn't cheap either!) Ladies....let this be a lesson to you. Research, research and research your wedding photographer prior to paying that deposit.

In actuality, this isn't what this blog entry was about. I actually intended to give major props to Gray Photography in Nashville, TN for doing such a spectacular job at capturing all of the special moments of the following wedding. THIS is a great example of a photographer who really knows his stuff! Great job!

CLICK HERE

Is Kimora The Latest Celebrity Chocolate Bride?

Apparently - - -

Allegedly - -

Kimora Lee Simmons and Djimon Hounsou are married! According to the New York Daily News, a source close to the pair has revealed that, Kimora and her Dijmon were married over the summer on a transcontinental trip to Hounsou’s native Benin, Africa − but they couldn’t make it official in the U.S. because Kimora was still technically married to Russell Simmons at the time; that divorce was finalized on Jan 28, 2009.

“Both Kimora and Djimon wore traditional dashikis,” says the close source. “She went whole hog with the African theme − there were African drums, a traditional ceremony with dancers . . . they even had a hut!”

Well shut my mouf! If it's true, a huge congratulations are in order! If it's not true, well congratulations anyway! (Kimora's preggo!)

So Many Ideas...So Little Time!

I feel like I've been depriving all of you out there.  There are so many beautiful ideas out there for your upcoming wedding and I have a responsibility to bring them all to you....but at times I feel like I'm not working fast enough! Check THIS out:

click to enlarge

This is called, WEDDING GRAFFITI. What a magnificent way to personalize your wedding day!  (I LOVE this idea. Wow.) The lettering comes on very thin pieces of matte vinyl that look printed when you apply it to a smooth surface.  Too, too cool.  Click >>HERE<< to find out more!

How President Obama Is Ruining My Marriage

I found the following blog entry at BlackAndMarriedWithKids.Com. They reposted this from TheYoungMommyLife.Com Definitely show both blogs some love at your earliest convenience! This is some GREAT food for thought!

How President Obama Is Ruining My Marriage

It’s very inspiring to see a couple who love and respect each other as much as President Obama and Michelle Obama do. It’s clear in every interaction that they are each other’s best friend, and closest confidante. Their public displays of affection (including the “terrorist fist jab”) are legendary. They’re always hugging and kissing and gazing lovingly at each other.

But seeing their public love fest every day is making me grumpy.

Take Inauguration Day, for example. My husband and I watched as the new president and first lady made appearances at all 10 official balls. As we watched them dance over and over again, I got a little misty eyed. I looked over at the love of my life as he lay on the couch and I got inspired. I stood up and reached out my hand. “Honey, would you like to dance with me?”

Now, I will say that it was about 11 p.m. at this point. His response? “Nope, I don’t feel like dancing.” And with that, he rolled over on the couch and closed his eyes as if he was going to sleep.

I’m heated. “You know, President Obama would never say no to Michelle,” I huff. He kind of opens one eye, laughs and goes back to sleep.

I turn back to the TV, with a bit of jealousy mixing in with my emotional high. “He just made his wife First Lady, but I can’t get my husband to get off the #@$%^&!% couch,” I mutter to myself. I catch President Obama smile when he looks at his wife, like it’s the first time he’s seen her today, even though she’s been right by his side for the past 24 hours. That’s true love, I think to myself.

But what we don’t see is how they got there.

No one really talks about the years of stress they endured to get to this point. Remember, this isn’t a newlywed couple up there on the national stage. They’ve been together for more than 16 years. They know each other inside and out.

All we see now is the end result of years of hard work. All the airing of hurt feelings, the silent treatments, the shouting matches, the exasperation of trying to communicate when you really just want to be left alone – we missed all that. We’re late to the party.

One of the most inspiring chapters in President Obama’s book, The Audacity of Hope, was the last chapter where we talked about his family life and the struggles in his marriage. How the burden of parenthood often fell on Michelle; how his ambition often took him away from the family for extended periods of time and left Michelle feeling like a single mother; how she could hardly disguise her anger toward him at times and would turn her cheek away when he leaned in for a kiss. It was inspiring because it goes to show that we all can turn a marriage around and make it the envy of a nation.

Whenever I get mad at my husband, who has held that title for all of 21 months, I have to remember that we’re still in the pre-game warm-ups part of marriage (to use a sports analogy). We haven’t even reached game time, let alone being on the same team with two minutes left in the game.

We don’t have our clutch game together yet, like Barack and Michelle do. But we will. It just takes years of practice to make it look so easy.

Tara Pringle Jefferson is a freelance writer from Ohio, where she lives with her husband and two kids. Visit her blog, TheYoungMommyLife.com, for daily musings about the issues young moms face.

How'd They Do That?

I stumbled across this stunningly beautiful centerpiece which includes an arrangement of roses submerged underwater. How in the world did they do that? Beautiful.

Chocolate Brides Makes It To Oprah's Radio Network!

Well...

What can I say.

I was (and still am) in TOTAL & COMPLETE shock.

The phone rang and the caller ID said, "HEARST". Hearst is the company that publishes O Magazine. I am VERY familiar with Hearst because I've only been stalking them for the past 4 years or so trying to get them to buy into Chocolate Brides Magazine.

LONG STORY SHORT....Gayle read the Daily News article and was interested in having me do an interview the following day. I fell out. I rolled around on the floor....I laughed....I cried....I was a mess.

I had JUST taken out some braids that were 3 months old and my hair was LITERALLY a mess. I hadn't planned on perming for a couple of days to give my scalp a rest....but suddenly, I found myself running up the street to get my hair done cause I didn't want to scare the beejeezus out of Gayle.

FAST FORWARD....

Although I am a 'communicator' by trade...and I am no stranger to the 'lights, camera, action' of a broadcast studio....I thought that I would be horribly nervous. But believe it or not, I don't think I've EVER been so calm and relaxed. My heart didn't skip a beat...I didn't sweat...I felt beautiful...I even felt thin like in as a size 6 thin. (don't ask me about that one) I was so unbelievably calm. I had NEVER FELT this type of peace. EVER.

We arrived early. I drank some green tea. I thanked God for the opportunity. When they called me into the studio, I picked up a couple of copies of the CB Magazine to show to Gayle, and skipped down the hallway to meet Oprah's best friend.

We hugged. We smiled. We chatted like 2 old girlfriends. I exhaled...and before I knew it, it was over.

Bottom line....without YOU...there is NO CB. So I want to thank YOU...the CB... for making that interview possible. I have already claimed in the name of JESUS that that opportunity will blossom into something even bigger and better than anything that my imagination visualize. This aint about me OR Eugene.....It's about YOU. The Chocolate Bride. The reader. The supporter. Thanks for riding with me. I promise that wherever CB takes me....I'm taking you with me. Please continue to keep CB in your prayers!

Click HERE to listen to the interview!

Friday/Sunday vs Saturday

My girlfriend called me last week to tell me that she was engaged. In her mind, I must be a wedding expert or something because she had a million questions for me! LOL!

The first question that she had for me was about Friday/Sunday weddings vs. Saturday weddings.

If she decides to have her wedding on a Friday or a Sunday, she will reap several rewards: both financial and otherwise. She will save time, a probably a significant amount of money and she'll find that her guests will appreciate having a Saturday free to spend time with her and other guests they know.

For Friday or Sunday weddings, the majority of banquet facilities, photographers, limo companies, etc are much more willing to negotiate in order to reach a price that suites her budget. Vendors tend to see Friday and Sunday as bonus days. Savings on these services can really add up, making this a fantastic option to save money without having to sacrifice the quality of her wedding.

A Friday evening wedding with a ceremony followed by dinner can possibly avoid the extra cost and hassle of a cocktail party. Having the ceremony and reception back to back may ensure more people at the ceremony. Additionally, a Friday/Sunday wedding can free up at least one day of the weekend which can make your guests more appreciative of the extra time, especially if they are traveling.

We Interrupt The Bridal Talk To Bring You....

FYI - Oprah has never, ever, ever, EVER shared an O cover with anyone. When I can find the words, I'll be back because to say how FLY this is may be an understatement. Whew!

Candy Girl!

Wedding Candy Buffet

The Candy Buffet has GOT to be one of my favorite wedding trends. They bring out our childish inner-spirits and are a great way to thank guests for attending your wedding.

In addition to candy buffets being a great wedding favor, it is an extremely fun wedding decoration.

Here are a few basic ideas on how to create the PERFECT Candy Buffet:

* The first thing you need to do is find some great candy containers and candy scoops. You can rent containers (check with your wedding planner, florist, or rental shop for ideas and options) or you can purchase them at your local craft store. Oops...let me not forget EBay!

* You should definitely obtain clear containers. They showcase your candy selections and have a charming appeal.

* Be creative. The sky is the limit when it comes to how you want to present your candy buffet.

* In addition to your candy jars and candy selections, you will want to decorate the table. Consider including:

* A table runner in one of your wedding colors
* Flowers & flower petals
* Candles
* Decor that matches your theme
* Childhood pictures of the bride and groom

* One of the easiest ways to bring style to your candy buffet display is to put your candy jars at different levels. Raise the containers to different heights by putting books or other supporting materials under the table cloth. Your wedding caterer or cake designer may also have dessert stands you can rent for the evening to achieve the leveled look.

* When making your candy selections, consider several things – your wedding colors, your theme, and your candy favorites.

* Use your wedding colors to inspire your candy selections. You don’t have to stay true to the colors you selected for the rest of the wedding, but it is a great way to tie it all together.

* The thing to remember with color is that it makes a difference – whatever colors you select. Candy buffets with coordinated colors look much better than random-colored candy selections.

* Incorporating some details from your wedding theme can help make your candy favors even more memorable. Asian theme? Include fortune cookies. Winter wedding? How about white-chocolate covered pretzels?

* What was your favorite childhood candy? Candy bracelets, ring pops, now and laters, Boston Baked Beans? Do a simple Google search for nostalgic candy. You'll be surprised at what you can find!

* Plan by how you want the display to look, not how many guests are coming. Having enough candy is crucial in making your candy buffet look good.

* First, determine how many jars and types of candies you want. I recommend 7-10 (or more, depending on budget) types of candies. Buy 15-20 pounds of each variety.

* The more the merrier holds true in a wedding candy buffet. Something this cool demands a presence and having plenty of candy will ensure your candy buffet display looks great!

* A wedding candy buffet is a great do-it-yourself favor that your guests will not soon forget. Make sure to include favor boxes or bags so they have something to put their candy selections in. Once again, Ebay is a wonderful resource for finding inexpensive bag or box choices.

* Make your guests literally feel like a kid in a candy store when they join in the celebration of your wedding.


A few candy websites:

* www.candywarehouse.com
* www.blaircandy.com
* www.groovycandies.com
* www.sweetnostalgia.com
* www.hometownfavorites.com
* www.oldtimecandy.com

India Arie...New Album...New Man...New Attitude

The very beautiful, talented India Arie is gracing the cover of this week's Jet Magazine.

India talks candidly about how she grew weary competition as well as the need to have her music categorized, and, as she calls it “the politics of the music industry.” “I was planning on what to do with my money, what I would do to make it grow. I really was going to retire,” she told Jet magazine.

“I’ve learned that music is a challenge, not a competition. I released the fear of chart positions and album sales, and reconnected with the love of music and the love of the listener and the love of myself again.”

India has a new man in her life who helped her come to this realization. Congrats India! Love is something else, aint it?

Chocolate Brides Radio Made The Paper!

Wow. We don't have the words! A BIG CB hug and a kiss to David Hinckley for writing an article about Chocolate Brides Radio in today's NY Daily News! We are SO excited! Click HERE to read the article in it's entirety!

Throwback Thursday

Special thanks to PeeJay from ChocolateBrides.Com for sharing this BEAUTIFUL video of her grandparents!

Taraji's Look

We really loved Taraji's look at the Oscars this past weekend! In fact, this would make a GREAT wedding look! New York-based celebrity hair stylist, Dante Blandshaw shares expert tips on how he used Aveda products to achieve Taraji P. Henson’s look for the Oscar Awards:

• “I started with Aveda Brilliant Shampoo and Aveda Brilliant Conditioner to soften Taraji’s textured hair,” said Blandshaw. “I love the Aveda Brilliant line because it provides a smooth shine to textured hair and reduces blow dry time.”

• Prep hair with Aveda Brilliant Damage Control to protect from heat styling.

• Blow dry hair straight using a paddle brush.

• After blow drying, add a dime-sized amount of Aveda Brilliant Universal Styling Creme to add additional shine without weighing hair down.

• Flat-iron hair to create the foundation for a smooth, sleek red carpet look.

• Using 1.5” and 2” barrel curling irons, curl hair throughout to give bend and movement, accenting the layers in the cut.

• Slightly curl the front to create a soft, side-swept bang for added height and fullness.

• Comb hair through with a wide-tooth comb.

• Spray with Aveda Air Control Hair Spray for a light finish. “Aveda Air Control Hair Spray is a perfect complement to this look because its lightweight formula provides lasting hold and shine without weighing hair down,” said Blandshaw.

Disney unveils dolls for The Princess and the Frog

These dolls would make great flowergirl gifts!!!




There was a royal debut for a line of dolls inspired by Disney’s first Black princess.

Disney Consumer Products unveiled the line of dolls inspired by its forthcoming film The Princess and the Frog in New York on Monday.

The film, set in New Orleans, stars Princess Tiana, who is Disney’s first Black princess (voiced by Dreamgirls star Anika Noni Rose). “It really is a dream come true for me in reality,“ Anika said of her role.

Anika (who already looks like a Disney princess) was there for the big reveal at the American International Toy Fair. She seemed almost moved to tears when she was presented with a one-of-a kind Princess Tiana doll created especially for her by Mattel.

There are a few different versions of the Princess Tiana doll, which will no doubt grace catalogs and commercials alike this holiday season. Fortunately, the dolls will be pretty affordable; they’re expected to retail for $10 to $15.Did we mention that Oprah is voicing Tiana's mom in the movie?

Seeing the dolls for The Princess and The Frog almost makes us wish we were still young enough to play with them.

The full line of toys boasts vivid, bayou-inspired tones of blue, green, gold and purple. According to Disney, more items in the line will be released later, including playsets, costumes and colorful accessories.

The Princess and the Frog marks a return to Disney's classic 2-D animation and should be released some time during the holiday season. The film has been generating buzz since the project was announnced back in 2007. Since then, it has undergone some script changes. For example, Tiana used be a chambermaid named Maddie (no...really).

Article by Sonya Eskridge

Hors D'oeuvres Done The Right Way!

When I told friends and family that I intended to serve bite sized macaroni and cheese balls, collard greens served in mini plates and spicy wings butler style at a party that I was hosting a couple of months back, they all gave me strange looks. In actuality, it turned out to be one of the most unique, cost effective ways to serve food at a party.  We were expecting over 300 guests and we really didn't have the budget nor space to do a sit down dinner for all of those people. 

Food & beverage will probably be the one thing that will drain your wedding budget. So why not have your wedding late to mid morning and serve heavy hors d'oeuvres! Get your wedding reception off to the perfect start with the most colorful and flavorful hors d'oeuvres imaginable! You can add a personal and creative touch which will make your appetizers individually yours! Serve your guests with style!

Bling Out Your Cake!

For years, brides have been accessorizing with tiaras, earrings and necklaces. Why not dress up your wedding cake with jewelry too? Cake top jewelry is a popular trend from stunning monograms acented with swarovski stones, to sprays with swarovski crystal drops expressions. Cake jewelry will add the finishing touch to your elegant cake.

bow of metal loops edged with Swarovski stones

delicate, cascading vines of tiny rhinestone flowers & leaves

stylized metal flowers encrusted with Swarovski rhinestones

shining metal monograms accented with rhinstones flowers

Tiffany Blue Paradise

The Tiffany Blue wedding theme is used along with robin egg blue or a light pale blue color theme. When people first think about a Tiffany blue wedding they think of the famous jewelry store that gives a feeling of elegance and extravagance.

The Tiffany Blue wedding is just not for celebrities anymore! The possibilities are ENDLESS!

Love Is A Beautiful Thing....Aint it?

My Love Don't Cost A Thing

We're all feeling the effects of the recession, and many of you ladies might be finding it hard to think of special ways to celebrate this Valentine's Day without breaking the bank.

Here are some creative things you can do for your man that are either totally free or super cheap:

1. Cook him dinner—wearing nothing but your sexiest lingerie and heels. Believe us when we say that it won't matter at all what the meal actually winds up tasting like!

2. Serve yourself up for dessert. Grab some of your favorite condiments (think honey and chocolate syrup), lay a towel down (you'll thank us for this pointer later) and turn yourself into a jumbo banana split sundae.

3. Role play. Ever have a naughty nurse and patient fantasy? Or maybe you’re more of a sexy maid and butler type? Whatever your fantasy may be, dressing up like different characters can add a sexy spark to any V-day rendezvous.

4. Make like a Pussycat Doll and treat your man to his very own personal lapdance. My favorite song to get down to? "Kiss," by Prince—the slinky beat and sexy lyrics set the perfect mood.

5. Run a luxurious bubble bath...for the two of you. You can get really yummy smelling bath salts and oils from most chain drugstores these days. Light candles, throw on some slow jams and relax.

6. Give him a sensual massage. Lay him down and turn him to putty in your hands with a full body rubdown. Be sure to use massage oil or lotion, or the friction created by your hands might be too much for your man to handle!

Mariela Rosario/Latina.Com