Brides magazine has collaborated with interior designer Inson Dubois Wood to create the "Newlywed Nest" showhome in Manhattan, designed for new couples looking to "marry" style and space by creating a unified aesthetic throughout their home, while incorporating each other’s belongings. The space is furnished by presenting sponsor IKEA and designed by interior designer Inson Dubois Wood. Wood’s concept maintains that newlywed couples seek to furnish their homes in a chic and affordable way, with a focus on maximizing environmental sensitivity. Wood chose items for the showhome from IKEA’s array of eco-friendly products from furniture, to lamps made of recycled plastics and decorative wall hangings made from all-natural materials. “Three out of four Brides readers will move into or buy a new home by their first anniversary and personally spend $4,600 on items for their home – three times the amount of the typical adult,” said Brides Vice President and Publisher, Carolyn Kremins. “Working with IKEA, we were able to design a showhome concept that is at once inspirational, sustainable and attainable for young couples who are not only combining their styles to create a new home together, but are looking for direction as well.” The "Newlywed Nest" is a two bedroom triplex apartment at 311 E 11: Village Green, which is targeted to be the first LEED® Gold certified building in the East Village. The property was designed with a combination of sustainable and renewable materials and an innovative philosophy, and serves as a template for the way to develop sustainable and healthy properties in the future. Brides partnered with The Lower Eastside Girls Club of NY, which provides programs to develop environmental, entrepreneurial and ethical leadership for inner-city girls. Throughout the duration of the showhome, The Girls Club will host the Sweet Things Pop-up Bake Shop with a wedding-themed line of baked goods that make perfect favors. All proceeds will support The Girls Club college and career prep programs. In addition, at the close of the showhome, IKEA will make an in-kind donation of the home’s furniture to The Girls Club. Free events and demos throughout the month will be open to the public, and include: · Fitness Classes: Free classes on the showhome’s private rooftop terrace, provided by Physique 57 and New Body Bootcamp · Designer Consultations: Solve your design dilemmas – meet one-on-one with Inson Dubois Wood, design experts from IKEA, and more · Sweet Decorating: Attend a cookie and cupcake decorating class with the head pastry chefs of The Lower Eastside Girls Club’s Sweet Things Bake Shop · Bedroom Games: What’s your sleep style? Play our game to find out how you and your partner can enjoy a good night’s sleep! · Bridal Trunk Show: Mothers and daughters are invited to a girls night out at the Mark Ingram Bridal Atelier Trunk Show – meet the designer as he presents his formal evening dress collection, while enjoying cocktails and mini manicures · One-on-One Color Consultations: Meet with Sonu Matthews, Senior Interior Designer for Benjamin Moore for color consultations; the first 10 attendees receive a free copy of the Paint Style book · Flower Arranging Workshop: Bella Meyer of Fleurs Bella shares creative and unique ways to beautifully showcase flowers · Couples Portraits: Free portraits by Craig Paulson Photography – visit the Newlywed Nest for a snapshot with your sweetheart and receive a free print · Raffle Prizes: Enter for a change to win $250 IKEA gift certificates, an engagement photo session from Craig Paulson Photography, and more · Tag Sale: At the close of the Newlywed Nest, the IKEA furniture featured in the home will be for sale, with all proceeds benefitting The Lower Eastside Girls Club The showhome will be free and open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays April 24 – May 22 from 11AM – 4PM. For a compete schedule, visit http://bridesfirstlook.com/newlywednest.