Navigating Birmingham Weddings with Style!

From Borrowed & Blue: “Weddings are all about the couple, and resources galore are dedicated to all things bride or groom. But what about the guests? They also have to find the perfect outfit and entertain themselves for a weekend in between wedding festivities (in a sometimes unfamiliar city). That’s why we are coming to LaQuin Taylor, owner of ëmagine, for the insider scoop on how to navigate Birmingham weddings with style.

Check out our Q&A with LaQuin to learn a thing or two about being an all star guest at your next Bham wedding:

1. Let’s start with fashion: describe what would be (in your mind) a great outfit that a guest can wear to a traditional Southern wedding in Birmingham, specifically at a more formal venue like The Sonnet House?

LT:  As a guest, there are a lot of factors that go into choosing an appropriate wedding ensemble. However, no matter the venue or style of invitation, make sure you follow the holy grail of Southern wedding rules.

Ladies should stay away from white, unless requested, as it is reserved for the bride. They should also be conscious of the length and cut of their dresses.  Floor length gowns in a modest hue or a chic cocktail dress is appropriate for “Black Tie” dress codes. While we all love a fab pair of heels, make sure you choose a pair that is appropriate and comfortable. Going sans shoes on the dance floor is a faux pas!

Gentleman should choose smart accessories that tastefully accent their suit coat or sports jacket. For “Black Tie Optional” dress codes try a double vented dark suit and switch up your traditional tie for a velvet bowtie!

When picking your ensemble think of the personal styles of the bride and groom and try to blend in, let the bridal party shine. It is definitely all about southern charm and style!

 photo: via  la.brandon

2. What about an outfit for a more casual outdoor wedding in the August heat?

LT: The humidity here in Alabama can threaten to make dressing for weddings a bit uncomfortable. However, with the right outfit and accessories, you will be able to beat the heat and enjoy the special occasion in style!

Ladies should aim for a light and non-fussy ensemble, such as a flowy dress. You could even pair a pleated chiffon skirt with a silk tank. Accessories like vintage lace hand fans are a pretty and practical addition to an outfit. Not only do they serve as a conversation piece, but they also provide instant relief from the heat!  I am all about romance, so I would definitely add a sparkly accent necklace and to avoid the frizzies, try an updo.

Gentlemen may find comfort in a lighter weight linen suit. A traditional handkerchief or pocket square is perfect for battling perspiration in style. If you plan to forgo the suit coat, focus on the fit of the shirt and slacks—the goal is neat and well fitted.

3. If guests still need to find an outfit last minute, can you suggest some of your favorite boutiques or stores that are sure to have the perfect wedding guest outfit on hand?
   

LT: There is no shortage of great fashion boutiques here in Birmingham.  Gus Mayer, Manhattan South and SOCA will definitely make any local fashionistas list! Gentleman should check out Remon's and Sonya Faye's.

4. If guests are traveling out of town to come to Birmingham for the weekend, what are a few must-see spots around Birmingham that they should visit (think some of the most beautiful places that the city affords)?

photo: via  manhattan south

LT: The city view from the top of Red Mountain is breathtaking, so a night trip to Vulcan Park is a must! The beautiful marquees at the Alabama and Lyric Theater make for awesome nighttime selfies. So swing by the theater district to snap a cool pic and take in a show!

One of my favorite places to relax is the beautiful Railroad Park in downtown Birmingham. You can find a spot to lounge on the green or enjoy one of the many park sponsored events.

If you are anything like me, you will want to check out the local shopping scene. Head to downtown Homewood for a "main street" shopping experience. With tons of boutiques, antiques and eateries there is something for everyone to enjoy!

BOTTEGA CAFE: café mac & cheese, small salad

5. Where is the best local place for guests to grab a quick, casual bite to eat for lunch before the big festivities begin?

LT: Living in Birmingham is a foodie’s dream! It’s hard for me to narrow the list but I'm sure Bottega Cafe, Feast & Forest, and the Woodlawn Cycle Cafe will prove themselves to be more than worthy.

6. If wedding guests arrive a night early to explore the city, what’s your suggestion for the best place to eat a moderately elegant and delicious dinner?

LT: If you are meeting up with old college friends to reminisce, I would definitely recommend grabbing some barbecue at Saws Juke Joint, Crestline or a slice at Post Office Pies in Avondale. For a more sophisticated setting check out, awarding winning chef, Chris Hastings' new restaurant, OvenBird. Equally as enjoyable are Satterfields in Cahaba Heights and Avo of Mountain Brook. I'll round off the list with my absolute favorite place to dine, El Barrio Restaurante Y Bar. The energy in this place is amazing and the food is top notch!

SKEEBALL: Game Room Paramount

7. What about some late night bars for guests to keep the party going even after the reception ends?
   

LT: In the downtown loft district, there are several bars within walking distance of each other. Paramount has one-upped the competition by featuring skeeball in their game room while gastropub Carrigan's Public House boasts an impressive cocktail menu and a cool rooftop space. If you are in the mood for some live jazz while you grab a drink, check out Ona's Music Room at Pepper Place.  

THEATER DISTRICT: Revelator Coffee

8. Any other advice for anyone visiting Birmingham for a weekend? What are the few highlight activities that guests don’t want to miss?

LT: Attending Barons Baseball games, visiting the farmers markets and enjoying the many food and cultural festivals are all things I look forward to throughout the year. I can get lost for hours in the Wedgwood collection at the Birmingham Museum of Art and I enjoy an occasional poetry slam at the Birmingham Public Library. Birmingham is a culturally rich city and there are always so many awesome events going on, you will not run out of options! Prior to their visit, I'd highly suggest visitors check out the events calendar on DiscoverBirmingham.org or pick up a free copy of the WELD, a local news and entertainment publication.

I hope you all enjoyed my Q&A! Special thanks to Borrowed & Blue for the opportunity to share my style and tips.