Wedding Tings — adayinmycloset

I ran out of magnets last year. My fridge was on fleek. My roommate and I must have accumulated at least 15 wedding invites between us and I thought that was a lot. This is just the age range we're in now. Most of us are moving to digital, but you can count on those life-changing events to carry with them a bit more formality. I'm here for it. Especially those for which I get to RSVP as a regular guest! Yeah I said it. Unashamed.

I missed a couple while in Dubai, and had four to attend in the last 30 days since my return. Tragic! Tracy and Whitney please forgive me loves, I so wish I was there to witness your day. I've added to the craze, I can't believe it. Mine is next week!

I was, however, able to attend two that were in the NYC area. Of course, they were everything. I say that after every one. I'm a sucker for love. And the public declaration against a backdrop of aging matriarchs, proud daddies and eternal ballads puts me over the top. I don't cry tho. Cuz I'm a G. But yeah, I live for all the feels.

I wore a dress by Studio 75 to Jason & Jenn's black tie wedding. This Stern 2015 love story found itself celebrating on Park Ave. Stunt on 'em then! Still living out of boxes, I decided to give a recent Dubai find a go. On its own, it seemed more summer-maxi-cas, so I paired it with a leather wrap belt in hopes of elevating to the occasion. The Gansevoort affair was polished and opulent. So much to admire.

My fiance was able to accompany me to the nuptials of Jumi & Neil. It was magical. A beautiful, seamless blend of Cameroonian, Ghanian, Nigerian and Black American culture. One thing I know about African gatherings is that they will forever be full of color and life. So Eric agreed on an Ankara pocket square, around which I built my look. I accessorized more heavily with jewelry from Tafari Tribe in Brooklyn and a Kente fan by Kaarta Imports in Harlem to complement the very simple H&M shift dress I found the day before. I few more snaps cuz the sun was out giving us all the glow up.

And now for my own dress search...it started a week before I left Dubai. I hadn't considered going anywhere because I already had an appointment on the calendar at the famous Kleinfeld in NYC for which my mom was flying in. A few women at work convinced me to just look and go for the experience in a region where the offerings might differ.

Spontaneously, my friend, Jainy from the office hopped in a cab with me after work to check out Arushi Couture, who I'd admired online. I was able to try on everything I wanted, knowing that every piece was one of a kind. It either fit you within an inch of reasonable tailoring or it wasn't meant for you. They had a great blend of traditional, westernized and Moroccan style collections with intricate detail that was really impressive to see up close.

The next morning, I had a true bridal appointment at Esposa. I was attracted to their large inventory of evening wear, as I was not 100% sure I would settle on a traditional white gown for either a courthouse ceremony or future celebration. My overnight BFF and fellow #BAPinDubai, Vivian, jumped at the chance to meet me for such a joyous occasion with less than half a day's notice. I was going to go regardless, but having her there made it a thousand times more fun! Thank you sis. I didn't give many style limitations, because I believe there are exceptions to every rule. And I have a tendency to be pleasantly surprised when I let other people dress me. There were some gorgeous fits, a few misses, and a couple showstoppers. I don't understand how rich people make choices such as these. My budget helps me make mine.

And finally, the home of SAY YES TO THE DRESS. For the mere fact that I am engaged while living in NYC, I had to. And yes I got me some Popeyes right before my appt, all in my regal, gold-trimmed caftan because I am my authentic self! Overdressed and happy AF. My mom actually flew up for the weekend to live this experience with me. I also requested the presence of my gorgeous cousin and only brother for support. We laughed through the entire appointment. Couldn't have picked a more fun team to encourage, uplift and provide their oh-so-candid feedback on every option. For those looking, the trunk show/sample sale across the street is just as bomb as the main salon. And yes, we got to meet Randy! Besides the jaw-dropping designs, this was such a special memory that I will cherish forever. Thank you for indulging me, fam.

So what did I decide? Stay tuned next month to find out from the new Mrs. Castle!