Invitations: Design of the Month

You know what frustrates me?  The fact that people will happily open a book, pick an invitation they like, change the wording, and be done.

PEOPLE!!  This is the very first thing all of your guests are going to see regarding your wedding!!

One day, I was thinking about adding invitations to my wedding business.  I looked around at all of the different invitation companies and thought, "yeah, I could do this".  But, then I opened the next website to consider selling their product and saw the invitations I had for my wedding - 16 years ago!!!  At that point I decided that, yes, I am adding invitations and, no, I will not have my customers open a book, pick a design and be done with it.

I am an event designer.  I create unique ways for a couple to showcase who they really are.  I will work with you from beginning to end to make sure your event, starting with the invitation, are fresh and creative and will make your guests say "WOW"!!!

Here are some of my favorite invitation designs.  I will be adding a new one every day for the next 30 days, so keep watching - you might find the one that you'd like to customize.

Do you have a favorite?  Leave a comment and let us know.

The Fit Bride: Challenge Yourself

As your wedding nears I know it will be hard to think about much else.  All the errands, phone calls, and meetings to make sure everything is just right.  It will be important to stay focused on your fitness goals through this turbulent time.  One way of doing this would be to challenge yourself to do something you have never done before.  Give yourself something that will push you to keep up on your health and fitness. 

This year I have decided to challenge myself as well, by signing up for the short course in the Waupaca Area Triathlon.  I have never done anything like this so it will really help me stay focused and push myself to get ready.  The excitement of a new challenge will do the trick in keeping me on track.  Try something new and challenge yourself to keep moving forward to achieving your goals.

Below are a few links to races and different ways to challenge yourself in the new year!

http://www.waupacaareatriathlon.com/

http://www.midwestsportsevents.com/paperdiscovery.html

http://www.eastbay.com/halfmarathon/

http://www.greatlakesendurance.com/wisconsin-races.html

Get out and be fit!!
Andrew

Theme Thursday: Halloween Theme Inspiration Boards

Halloween.  This is one of my favorite holidays.  I love the chance to turn myself into something I'm really not, maybe to jump out and scare someone and make drinks that have "smoke" pouring out of them.  So, with that being said, I wanted to give you a couple of ideas for your Halloween Themed Wedding {for next year of-course}.

I put together two different ideas - neither of them TOO out of hand, yet, definately Halloween.

First is my more favorite.  A little "blood" dripping here and there, a lot of red and some perfectly placed black.  

Then, there is the more subtle Halloween wedding.  Oranges, Blacks, caramel apples and a beautiful Pronovia dress.  If you wanted to have a more elegant Halloween wedding you could follow the ideas on this board and add a bit more black and maybe a hint of red.

Happy Halloween everyone!

Theme Thursday: Eco-friendly Weddings

Going green with the "Green Bride"

According to my friend, Sandy Stringer, owner of Strings and Champagne Events out on the west coast, couples all across the nation are adding a personal touch to their weddings.  It doesn't surprise us to see that the eco-factor is also very important to our brides and grooms in 2011.  A green wedding is any wedding where th ecouple tries to decrease the impact of their event on the planet-and there are many ways to do it without sacrificing style or elegance!  Green weddings are eco-chic and just a s amazing and beautiful as your "regular" wedding.  You minimize wast while not sacrificing style.  Nature's elements and beauty help us design events that compliment the environment.

If you think about it, every little detail of your wedding can carry a "shade of green".  You can start with wearing a silk or vintage dress, serve organic, locally grown foods and decorate your venue with bamboo and potted plants.  Every choice will make a difference!

Here are some ideas on "Going Green" for your wedding!

*Offer an organic signature cocktail and toast with your local, organic wine

*Have your bridesmaids wear cute purses decorated with gems and rhinestones

*Use local vendors.  Have your local wedding bakery bake an organic cake

*Decorate with soy candles at your reception.  They not only last longer than the other candles, but are also better for the environment.

*Save some paper when creating your invitations.  At Signature Events by Shelly, we use recycled papers and eco-friendly printing processes for all of your paper needs.

*Instead of printing escort cards for every guest, surprise them with white gloved ushers to guide them to their seats.  Don't have ushers?  Print your guests names on a stone as an alternative.

*Edible favors are a great way of adding that special touch to your table setting. 

*Registries!  Instead of registering for a bunch of items that you don't need, you can register for charities!!

*Your jewelry can even be "eco-conscious".  Find a jeweler that uses recycled stones and metals to create one of a kind jewelry.

*Search out a "green" salon for your wedding day.  It will be much better for the environment - and your health!

*Make sure your photographer uses our wonderful digital technology

*Go romantic and use a white horse and carriage, a joyful ride on that antique bicycle or cross the lake on a canoe.  All of these transportation ideas can reduce the air pollution if chosen instead of the traditional limousine.

  

I hope I inspired you with some of these ideas.  Happy green wedding planning!

Sandy Stringer, Owner of Strings & Champagne Events

www.strings-champagne.com

www.facebook.com/strings.champagne

Thank you, Sandy, for such wonderful suggestions!  Have you decided to "Go Green" with your wedding?  What did you do to be eco-friendly?  Share with us and help to inspire.

Tent Weddings: Tips and Decor

Well, the leaves are falling, I might be done mowing, the windows are closed and the wood boxes for the fireplaces are full...fall is here!  I love the changes of the seasons, and though my summer wedding season is done - the next one is on it's way.  Weddings are wonderful no matter which season they are in {I also love the "winter wonderland" type of weddings}, but when you are lucky enough to be able to use the natural beauty of the outdoors, that is the best!  There definately is something about green grass, colorful flowers {that you don't have to pay for}, big full trees and birds singing that make people happy.  Then add a wedding on top of that and you have a wonderful day for a celebration. 

Enough of my rambling, now it's time for business. 

When you are planning to have your wedding outdoors, keep in mind that you will not only be working with your vendors, but you will also be working with Mother Nature - and unfortunately, her wishes trump everyone else's.  When I have a couple that is planning their wedding to take place outside - a backup is a must.  Tents are my favorite!  It's like starting with a blank slate and being able to turn it into anything you can dream of.  There are no limitations.  Rustic, trendy, elegant, sit-down dinner, buffet dinner - with the right vendors you can have it all.  You do have to keep some things in mind, though, when putting all of your thoughts together.  Here are 10 tips for you to have a perfect outdoor wedding.

1.  Invitations
When you are considering the wording of your invitations make sure you mention that this will be an outdoor ceremony/ reception.  People might choose to wear "flatter" shoes and lighter clothes - or bring sweaters...

2. Comfort
If your ceremony is taking place under the hot sun, you might want to consider a smaller "ceremony" tent.  Something that is easier for the tent company to put up that will cover the chairs.  Other options are: umbrellas, water and fans (which can double as programs). You will want to make sure to know which direction the sun is coming from at the time of your ceremony.  Have it at your guests backs, not in their eyes.  Also, offering items such as sunscreen and bugspray is a nice idea.



3. Bugs
I am not much into spraying bugs {I just really don't like chemicals}, but I've noticed and increase in bees and gnats lately, so sometimes it is necessary to go the chemical route.  It's not a bad idea to get some Raid and spray your entire ceremony and reception areas about 3 hours before people will get there.  You can also contact a local pest control company and have them come out and treat the property a couple of days before any set-up will take place.  Also, one of my favorite "natural" ways to control these pests...place cans of open cat food around the outside perimeter of the tent - bees love this stuff!  Who knew?!

4. Favors
When deciding what your wedding favors will be keep the heat level in mind.  Chocolate will melt, milk will get sour...you get the idea.  Some of my favorite ideas are: flip-flops, jarred preserves or honey from your local farmers, flower bulbs or seed packets, small saplings wrapped in burlap.  Basically, natural things are great for outdoor weddings.

5. Sound
When you are reciting your vows to each other and saying your "I do's" your guests will want to hear everything you say.  If there will be a larger crowd, talk with your DJ or Band and discuss a sound system for the ceremony.  Most will have this option for you.  If not, talk with your tent rental company...somebody will be able to set this up for you.

6. Permits
If you are having your wedding at a park, or other public place, make sure you contact the local city parks department or other government department to get any permits needed.  Be sure to ask about trash removal, open flame rules and pre-wedding photography.

7. Food
Whether you are having your food professionally catered in {very highly recommended!} or family is providing everything...stay away from perishable foods.  Mayonnaise is an item that should definately be kept out of the dishes being served, or at least brought out at the last minute.  You will also want to consider the frosting on your cake. It should melt in your mouth...not on the table. Instead of the buttercream frostings go with the harder tops like fondant or marzipan.

8. Bathrooms
If you are having your wedding in your parents back yard you might want to keep your 200 guests from going in and out of the home to use their bathrooms.  Renting a Bathroom Trailer is a wonderful way to go.  They come in a variety of sizes, they have running water, and some even have a larger stall for the bride {and all of her gown}.  These are not the porta potties at the county fair!

9. Electricity
Make sure you discuss this very important issue with your venue, rental company, caterer and entertainment.  Chances are that you will need a generator and electric cords so you will need to verify with everyone how much power they need.  After you have that information discuss with your venue and rental company to guarantee that you will not have a "black-out" at your wedding.

10. Lighting
If your celebration will be going into the late hours of the night, you probably won't want your guests fumbling around trying to find their seats.  Talk with your tent rental company for suggestions on lighting companies that they have worked with before.  You will want your dance floor lit up, the food areas, and parking areas. 

Are you having, or have you had, a tented wedding?  Let us know your details!

Keep watching for more tips, tricks and decor ideas to help you have a flawless, beautiful tented event!!

Summer Wedding Tips and Ideas

With the weather changing, flowers blooming and a lot more sunshine to be had by all, May through August - with good reason - are the most popular months for weddings. 

Here are some tips and ideas for you to be able to take full advantage of your summer wedding.



The outside setting
Take advantage of the longer days with a later afternoon wedding.  With the sunset behind you, you don't really need to spend a lot with decorations.  Use a flower garden as your nuptial site, a huge, green willow tree, or your families backyard. 

Summer wedding attire
With most of the wedding gowns being strapless, the summer bride is LUCKY!  Be sure to choose a gown that will fit with your location.  If you're getting married on a beach, a simple, light silk, linen or chiffon is perfect.  You could use beautiful hats in your party for a garden wedding, or you could decide to go barefoot for your beach wedding. If you are still getting married in a church and having an indoor/ outdoor reception, something a bit more formal, but still a light weight material is what you will want to find.  Make sure your girls are comfortable with a lighter dress and the guys could go with a linen suit or a pair of khakis and a nice button up shirt and dinner jacket.  And, of-course, a tuxedo is always appropriate for the more formal weddings. 

Summer hair and make-up
You will want to keep humidity in mind when choosing what to do with your hair {all of you!}.  Don't fight your hair, work with it.  Most professionals can design an updo for you that will look fabulous all day.  Keep your make-up light and natural.  You will be more comfortable and it will just look better!

Summery wedding favors
This is a great time to use some delicious fresh fruit for favors for your guests.  Work with your planner to find the perfectly colored, perfectly ripe peach or chocolate covered strawberries.  Also, make sure to offer your guests water {if getting married outside}, a beautiful wicker fan {which can double as your ceremony program} or a personalized parasol to block the sun.

The flowers
Well, this is easy!  It's summer and flowers are everywhere!  There are so many choices, so to help you narrow your choices here are some favorite options:
Hydrangeas, Roses, Lilies, Lilacs, Calla Lillies, Orchids, Stephanoitis, Mums and Zinnias.


Are you having a summer wedding?  Tell us about your details! Gown, flowers, food, decorations...we all want to know!

Wediquette Wednesday - Mother of the bride

Your daughter is getting married!  This is such an exciting time for you and your daughter and by following some simple rules of etiquette the planning process should run smoothly. 









Responsibilities
The number one rule of etiquette for the mother of the bride is to know what your responsibilities are.  It is a great idea for you and your daughter and her fiancee to sit down and discuss budget and responsibilities.  Your main responsibility is to assist your daughter in the planning process.  Give advice when asked, but don't force your opinion or try to take control of the wedding.  And, be willing to do the tedious jobs - like tying 200 ribbons onto favor boxes.  It might seem like a small thing to you, but to the bride it might be very important.  Here are some general responsibilities you might have: assisting with the guest list, hosting an engagement party or bridal shower, gown shopping - mostly all of the fun stuff!

Budget
In the past it was the family of the bride that paid for the wedding and the family of the groom covered the costs of the rehearsal dinner.  Times have changed and so has this tradition.  Many more couples are covering wedding expenses on their own now.  It is a wonderful idea to discuss the budget of the wedding before any plans are made.  Before any family meetings are held to discuss who will pay for what, you should sit with your daughter and future son-in-law and tell them your ideas to get their insight.  Listen to the type of wedding they would like to have and what their hopes are regarding financial obligations.  This will help any future family discussions regarding money go smoothly. 

FYI- most wedding planners will help with this very difficult responsibility!

Attire
Tradition says that the mother of the bride has the first choice in deciding what to wear for her daughter's wedding.  If following this tradition, talk with your daughter about colors, formality and the style she would prefer.  You will want to make sure you stand out from the other guests, but not overshadow your daughter.  After you have decided on the color and style of your gown contact the mother of the groom and let her know.  The mother of the groom's dress doesn't necessarily need to match your style and color, but it should not clash.  Another important tip is to stay away from the "whites".  Tans, beige, champagne, cream and white should be avoided.  The bride may or may not want you to stay within the colors she has chosen for the wedding, but either way, the colors should not clash.  If you want to stay within the color range, don't get too "matchy" but stay complementary.

Now have fun with your daughter and enjoy this "once-in-a-lifetime" experience with her!

Theme Thursday - Summer Wedding Inspiration

It is still cold here in Wisconsin, but I know summer has to be getting here soon.  Pinks, Greens, Oranges, Yellows, and Browns.  Here are some colorful and sunny inspiration boards for your outdoor summer wedding.

Wediquette Wednesday - Outdoor Wedding Etiquette

You and your finacee are an outdoorsy couple so it just makes sense that you would celebrate the beginning of your new life together outside.  Outdoor weddings are fantastic and can be as simple or as formal as you want, but there are some simple etiquette rules that you need to keep in mind when planning your outdoor wedding.




Inform Your Guests
You must make sure to include the information of an outdoor wedding on your wedding invitations, along with the formality of your celebration.  This will give your guests enough time to purchase the appropriate attire for the wedding day. 

Accomadate Your Guests
It is totally up to the hosts (you and your fiancee) to offer items to your guests for comfort purposes.  Water bottles, umbrellas, fans, or flip-flops if you like, are all great things to hand out to your guests to keep them comfortable.  Also, depending on where you live and the time of the day, sunscreen and bugspray might be appropriate.  You might want to have your attendants hand out extra tissues to those that might need to cover a sneeze due to allergies.

The Backup Plan
You should always have a "Plan B" when you are planning an outside wedding.  Renting an indoor site at the same place the celebration is being held is optimal, but renting tents or making sure your church is available on that day are also very appropriate.

The Sound System
You should arrange for microphones for yourselves and your officiant to guarantee all guests will hear every wonderful word being said.  You can ususally work something out with your band or DJ, but many wedding rental companies will have a system available to rent.

Decor
I am all about the simple wedding decor (the less is more rule), and when you will be getting married outside, even less is needed.  Keep the colors complimentary to the surroundings.  Let your colors and the simple decor enhance the beauty of the place you chose to exchange your vows. 

Enjoy!!

Tip of the week - Summer Weddings

Well, it has been a couple of weeks since I've been able to do this blog, but I am finally back!

My tip for all of you wonderful blushing brides this week is about summer weddings - mainly outdoor summer weddings.

Most weddings take place in the summer, and a large percentage of those take place outdoors.  This is great, but, unfortunately, you can't always rely on Mother Nature to comply to your wishes SO...my number one tip is - Always have a back-up plan!!!

So many brides and grooms are adamant about having their wedding take place outside.  But, if it is thundering, raining, or worse yet...hailing outside, you will not enjoy saying your vows in that and your grandparents will not enjoy sitting in that.  Though the wedding is about you, you are also a host and it is your responsibility to make sure your guests are comfortable, and safe. 

As far as your back-up plans, you could set up a tent, rent a barn, use a museum, reserve a building at the park, reserve the day at your church, or, if your wedding is small, you could set it up in your parents home or a Bed and Breakfast.  There are many options, so you should ABSOLUTELY have one set up.

Here are a couple of ideas for favors, programs and little extras to help you and your guests enjoy the day if you are outside and it is the beautiful sunny day you've dreamed it would be.

1. Umbrellas/ Parasols.  They are cute and can be used in your wedding party also.  You can get them in your colors or with a monogram or personalized note.

2. Fans.  You can also use these for your programs.  Very easy DIY item!

3. Water Bottles.  Set up a bucket with ice and fill it with personalized water bottles for your guests to grab before going down the aisle to their seats. 

Theme Thursday - Spring Weddings

Maybe it's because it's still cold and snowy outside, but looking at bright spring flowers in the flower shop made me dream of spring weddings and all of the fresh looks and colors. 

Here are some ways for you to bring "spring" into your wedding theme. 

• Use fresh flowers.   Some popular wedding flowers for your bouquets, centerpieces and any floral decor would be - Tulips, Freesia, Daffodils, Irises and Lilacs.  Also, a colorful mix of wildflowers is great!
• Use birdseed instead of rice or bubbles for your guests to toss after the ceremony.
• For your ceremony and cocktail hour music, consider using soft soothing music, like a harp or a flute and, if the weather permits, open up your reception to an outdoor patio.  You and your guests have been cooped up all winter long, so get outside and enjoy some warm, beautiful spring air.
• Use fresh "garden" foods.  Fruits, vegetables, delicious salads.  Offer chocolate covered strawberries and a bright green salad full of colorful vegetables served with a homemade fragrant dressing. 
• And, for a fun wedding favor, you could offer flower bulbs for your guests to take home and plant, garden tools, or wine glass charms shaped like butterflies.

This is from Always Andri Wedding Design



Simple Tip #4 - Personalize the attendants gifts

Your wedding attendants gifts can range, anywhere, from extremely personal to very general.  But, if your party includes close friends and family that you have known for a long time, a gift that is personalized to each attendant is a much nicer way to go.  The gifts don't need to be expensive, it is more the sentiment behind this tradition that is important. 







Some gift ideas for different personalities...

• The athletic friend:  A duffle bag with a personalized towel, water bottle, and maybe a baseball cap or visor.
• The music lover:  An itunes gift card, a sweet pair of headphones, a pair of concert tickets.
• The friend that loves to cook:  A large noodle pan filled with goodies and maybe a bottle of wine.

Remember that there is absolutely NO rule that says everyone needs to get jewelry or that they all need to get the same thing.  Happy shopping!