Guys this was the most surreal experience. I’m back from my first influencer trip ever! Last weekend, I got to attend New York Bridal Fashion Week (NYBFW) with engaged or recently married creators on behalf of Chambord! After attending the standard New York Fashion Week’s in the past (check out my recaps here and here) I thought I was prepared. NOPE! NYBFW is a completely different experience. NYBFW has a majority of their shows from 10 AM- 5 PM versus later in the evening with a much more peaceful atmosphere. And while the official week was September 29th-October 5th, I’m still getting invites to other “bridal week events” well into the end of the month. With your standard fashion week, they round up their events because of the subsequent shows in London, Milan, and Paris.
Additionally, I was navigating the “surrounded by influencers” territory for long periods of time. Even after 4 years of blogging, I’m just not used to it. The brand paid for our flights, hotel rooms, food, and I was allowed to bring a friend. I don’t think I’ll ever be able to say I’ve “made it” but this is definitely the coolest opportunity I’ve been blessed with thus far.
After what seemed like the longest commute from Newark, I settled into our Hilton hotel in the Fashion District. I quickly put on makeup, raced down to the lobby and met 12 amazing women. Since my sister Lola had to work until Friday evening, my friend Paula was my +1 for the first two days! It was super special to have her join me because the last time I saw her she was a bridesmaid in my wedding! LOL. The other women brought their partners, moms, sisters, and friends and came from Canada all the way down to Birmingham, Alabama. After eating small bites at a lavish presidential suite in the city, most of us turn in early for the night.
We went to the famous Ron Ben Israel’s kitchen and tried cakes straight off production! It was cool to see the process behind what it takes to make jaw-dropping sweets. Like when the chef made a recreation of the freaking Plaza Hotel. ICONIC. Next, we traveled to our first show by Amsale in Hell’s Kitchen. And after 12 short hours on this trip, I quickly realized we’re to be greeted with a glass of alcohol at every event (this time they were delicious St. Germain spritzers). Was I mad? Of course not. The show was a walkthrough of upcoming trends for Fall/Winter 2020. Gorgeous trains are making a comeback as well as the opportunity for brides to find some individuality with their designs.
Since our next show wasn’t until later in the afternoon, Paula and I killed time wandering the Chelsea Market and Le Bain Rooftop. Did you guys know they have a vending machine for swimwear so you can take a dip in the jacuzzi as you gaze upon the Manhattan skyline? So, basically, the most NYC thing ever.
The final event of the day was the only runway we attended during the trip, but it was definitely worth it. I don’t think I’ve ever loved every single piece to come down the catwalk like Ines di Santo’s gowns. Each one flowed effortlessly and made me dream about a vow renewal off the coast of Italy. Chambord scored us a front-row ticket and I’ve never felt closer to Manhattan’s elite.
Dinner took place at 701 West which I highly recommend! The food was tasty but I’m sure it comes at a price. It’s located right off of Times Square but finds a way to hide the entrance to the garden getaway and staffed with Michelin-starred chefs. Bryan Rafanelli, a famed event designer, dined with us as a special guest! He gifted each of us with his new book, talked about his experience in the wedding and event industry, and everything in between. The man has worked with the Obamas, Clintons, Matt Damon, and more but you would never know it. He was so humble!
Lola also seemed to experience a rough entry to the city (3-hour flight delay) but made it in! Reem Acra’s show at Jack Studios was absolutely stunning. The lighting alone was enough to make me, “BRAVO!” We met the designer, snapped some photos and moved to a try-on session at Amsale. I tried on 3 favorites but ultimately chose the slate dress to be shipped to me later. It’ll be perfect for winter weddings! We ended the day with dinner at Little Owl The Venue before preparing for our final day.
Our final day was brunch at Sadelle’s in Soho and we said our goodbyes! The food was buffet style of their favorites from the menu. If you’re looking for a brunch spot in the city, I’d highly suggest you bookmark it!
I mentioned how New York Bridal Fashion Week was different from my previous fashion week experiences for a few reasons. Firstly, I had no control over my schedule. The details of which I didn’t really know until a few days beforehand, but I still found time to catch up with my New York friends! It’s been 2 years since I’ve lived in Brooklyn, but they somehow love me enough to squeeze me in. Even if it’s just for an hour.
The traveling isn’t even close to being over for the rest of 2019 and I can’t wait to bring you all along! Follow me (@goodtomicha) to see where I go next. P.S. I’d love to know which outfit was your favorite! Let me know in the comments.
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