Signature Events by Shelly: Press Release

Signature Events by Shelly is now WeddingWire Rated for 2011

Waupaca, WI - December 14, 2011 - WeddingWire, the nation's leading wedding technology company, is pleased to announce that Signature Events by Shelly is WeddingWire Rated 2011 for Wedding Planning Services and Invitation Design. WeddingWire Rated is an annual award program that distinguishes wedding vendors across the country for their excellence. Based on hundreds of thousands of recent wedding reviews, WeddingWire Rated is the most recognized and trusted brand among engaged couples looking to find the best local businesses for their wedding.  

Signature Events by Shelly has 3 reviews on WeddingWire. Reviews by our newlywed clients include detailed ratings and insightful descriptions about their experiences working with our business and staff. Our reviews provide transparency for potential clients, assisting them in making the most informed decisions for their big day.

"We are delighted to unveil the 5th annual WeddingWire Rated program," said Timothy Chi, CEO, WeddingWire, Inc. "Signature Events by Shelly has made a commitment to capturing their clients experiences on the nation's leading wedding review site."

As the largest site for wedding reviews, WeddingWire empowers engaged couples with the most comprehensive and trusted review system available. The WeddingWire Rated program provides Signature Events by Shelly with a simple platform to capture customer feedback from their wedding planning experience. Newly engaged couples can easily access all of the reviews for Signature Events by Shelly on WeddingWire.com. We would like to thank our newlyweds for our WeddingWire Rated 2011 recognition.

For more information, please visit Signature Events by Shelly on WeddingWire at http://www.weddingwire.com/biz/signature-events-by-shelly-waupaca/f922b9633b045109.html

  For more information on WeddingWire Rated 2011, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.

About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire, the nation's leading technology company serving the $70 billion wedding industry, is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding professionals. For engaged couples, WeddingWire offers the ability to search, compare and book over 200,000 local wedding vendors, from wedding venues to wedding photographers to wedding cakes. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools for weddings, including wedding websites and wedding checklists, all at no charge. For wedding professionals, WeddingWire provides free online management tools creating the only market opportunity that gives local businesses control over their clients, reviews, leads and performance. Businesses that join the WeddingWire Network appear on WeddingWire.com and other leading sites, including ProjectWedding.com, MarthaStewartWeddings.com (NYSE: MSO), Weddingbee.com, and Celebrations.com (part of the 1-800-Flowers family of brands, NASDAQ: FLWS).

Theme Thursday: Twilight

Well, tonight is the opening night of the new Twilight movie.  And, since I have a teenage daughter, with a lot of teen aged friends, I will be there.  Since this is all I've heard about for the last two weeks this weeks theme was kind of a no-brainer for me. 

There are a couple of different ways you can go with a Twilight Themed wedding celebration (foregoing the vampire teeth please).  Here are two of my favorites:

This one is a more romatic, woodsy feel.  A lot of lace and natural colors.

I love this look.  Following along with the deep reds and blacks.  Again, very romantic and elegant.  I could see seeting this up in a tent with black chandeliers hung and towering vases of deep red roses.  And, of course, a lot of candles!

Are you having a Twilight themed wedding, or know someone that is?  Send us some pictures and share!  We would love to showcase your wedding.

Tip Of The Week: Signature Drinks

The vows have been said and you've sealed it all with a kiss so let's get your party started!  What better way to do this than with a Signature Drink!  I love this idea for wedding receptions.  It is fun, it allows you to be creative, and it just adds an extra festive feel to the  celebration.

Now that fall is here let's look at some recipes for some DELICIOUS signature drinks for your cocktail hour.

Serve a seasonal drink made with rye, Champagne, bitters, blood orange, and maple syrup.
**Give this one your own name**
Ingredients

• 1 1/2 ounces applejack
• 1 1/2 ounces rye whiskey
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• A few dashes orange bitters
• About 2 ounces Champagne
• Blood-orange rind cut into strips for garnish

Directions:

Combine applejack, whisky, maple syrup and bitters in a cocktail shaker and shake over ice.

Strain into a 6 ounce martini glass and top with champagne.  Garnish with orange rind and serve.

www.marthastewart.com

Pumpkin Pie Martini

Ingredients:

• .5 ounce Sylk Cream Liqueur
• 2 ounces Vanilla Vodka
• .5 ounce Pumpkin liqueur (or pumpkin spice syrup)
• 1 tsp Whipped cream
• Cinnamon Stick

Directions:
Pour the Sylk Liqueur and Vodka in a shaker filled with ice.  Shake well.  Add the Pumpkin Liqueur or syrup and shake again.  Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.  Top with a teaspoon of whipped cream and garnish with a cinnamon stick

Hot Apple Pie Cocktail
Ingredients:

• 1 ounce Tuaca (an orange-vanilla flavored liqueur)
• 5 - 6 ounce warm apple cider
• whipped cream
• cinnamon
• nutmeg
• cinnamon sticks

Directions:
Heat the apple cider.  Pour into a coffee mug, adding Tuaca.  Garnish with whipped cream, sprinkle on cinnamon and nutmeg and add a stick of cinnamon.

Another fun idea is to add an Apple Cider bar to your cocktail hour.  Make a few gallons of this wonderful Cider Punch, dress up your table and you're done.

Ingredients:

• cold cider
• orange juice
• sparkling wine or champagne 

Are you adding a signature drink to your cocktail hour?  What are you going to name it?  What is the recipe?  Share your details...we love to hear!

Fashion Friday: Pronovias 2012

I love Friday's for many reasons, but I think the biggest reason is this ~ Fashion Friday!!

Fashion Week in New York is done so it is time for me to do one of the many things I love most with my job ~ watch the many wonderful fashion shows.  As some of you know, I'm pretty sure I was a bridal gown fashion designer in a past life.  I could watch and draw bridal gowns all day, so to have a legitimate reason to sit back and watch these fashion show {and bring you the best of the best} is like a dream for me.

This week I am starting out with one of my favorite designers ~ Pronovias.  The gowns this year are unbelievable! 

So, without further adieu, grab your notebook and pencil, champagne and a comfy chair...Enjoy!

Do you have a favorite?  Share with us and write down the time.  Happy Friday Everyone!

Tip Of The Week: Invitations

Recently, I've had brides call me up with a request... "Please help!  I have been trying to print my invitations and they are coming out crooked and the ink isn't very bright".

Now, I totally appreciate the DIY thing...and Kudos to all of you brides that really want to add your personal touches to your wedding, BUT, doing your own invitations isn't easy.  You need to keep in mind that your wedding invitations are the very first thing your guests will see when they are invited to your wedding. 

Luckily, though, there are enough companies out there {mine for example} that will work with you if you are adamant about doing your own invitations.  Here, at Signature Events by Shelly, we will help you design your invitations and print them, and, if you choose, you can take care of the rest.  Saving you money and allowing you to be more "hands on".

Here are the top five tips to keep in mind about invitations:

• When to Order

You should be ready to order your invitations when your guest list is final (about three to  four months before).  Your design concept should be figured out about seven or eight months before.  Look for invitation styles that you really like.

• Do Overcompensate!

Don’t order the exact number you need.  A good rule of thumb is to order 25% extra.  Also, order extra envelopes to leave room for addressing errors.  And, remember that you will need one per household…not one per guest.  Although, any children over the age of 18 living with their parents should receive their own invitation.

• All in One

You will want to provide your guests with all of the information they will need.  Your invitation supplier should go over all of this as your times, venues, styles are being chosen.

• Saying Thanks

Remember to add thank-you notes to your order.  The “thank – you note project” begins when you are gathering names and addresses for the invitations.  Do yourself a BIG favor and SAVE THAT LIST!  As you open presents, record the gift next to the giver’s name and address.

• Signed, Sealed and Delivered

If you are having a destination wedding or marrying over the holidays you need to send your invitations early (10 to 12 weeks before the wedding).  For a local affair, the standard time frame is 6 to 8 weeks before the wedding. 

Have fun with your invitations and make them personal.  Work with a designer to really create a unique invitation.  Anyone can open a book and choose one...

Fathers and Daughters

With the latest Father/ Daughter dance that has been all over the news {and re-danced for us on GMA}, I thought I would share some of my favorites over the next week. Enjoy!

These dad's are AWESOME!!  Congratulations!

Theme Thursday: Tiffany Style

All of the "bling" and that trademark blue!!  I love this wedding.  The bride is gorgeous, the shoes are to die for, and the ring....ahhhhh {feeling dreamy right about now}.

Some delicious food, chandeliers {absolutely!}, satin ribbon, tower vases with some gorgeous flowers and gems and a smiling bride and groom surrounded by their favorite things!  I am working on a Tiffany themed wedding invitation set right now...ribbons, gems and all!  Watch for pictures.

Here is my favorite Inspiration Board to help with your Tiffany Themed Wedding.

Are you having a Tiffany Themed wedding?  Send us your thoughts and ideas!  We'd love to see!!

Bridal Shows: And the winners are!

Another Bridal Show weekend has come and gone, which means ~ MORE WINNERS!!

As you've heard before, and most of you heard this weekend, I am all about Stress Relief!  Hence, the wine giveaways from Signature Events by Shelly.

And, since Bridal Shows are where you all go to get some serious wedding information and ideas, it seems appropriate to giveaway something useful, so read on to see who the lucky winner is of some custom created invitations by Shelly!

Here we go...

Dana Senn and Rayleen Tritt

Jennifer Sorgel and Brenda Nelson

Trina Klukas and Jessy Loughrie (? sorry if the spelling is wrong)

Lynsey Nelson and Hayley Arndt

Kelsey Lau and Melissa Jones

and Danielle Barnaby. 

There is a number 12 winner, and I am sorry I missed you when you stopped back to pick up your bottle. I hope you enjoy!!

AND...the lucky winner of 100 FREE INVITATIONS IS... {drum roll please}

Christy Hansen!!!

Congratulations to all of you lucky winners!  I am looking forward to bringing you a bottle of sunshine.  And, Christy...keep your eyes open for invitation ideas.  Check out my website and look at all of the samples...if you see something you like, write it down.  I'm excited to work with you on creating your invitations!

Happy Halloween everyone!

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!

It's National Dessert Day SO Have Your Cake And Eat It Too

If you're looking for an excuse to go out and get that brownie sundae {as if you need one}, well here it is: It's National Dessert Day!!  I love special days, and this one tops my list. 

It's never a bad thing to grab your mixer and flour, but how about trying something different, very different, on this very special day. 

Here are 10 desserts to surprise your family with tonight. 

1. German Chocolate Cupcakes {using sauerkraut and applesauce...sauerkraut?!!}

2. Goat Cheese Cheesecake with Honeyed Cranberries {goat cheese is substituted for cream cheese}

3. Rich Chocolate Layer Cake {would you like a little mayo with that?  yes, I said mayo}


4. Sour Cream Ice Cream with Pear Compote {forget chocolate or vanilla...sour cream might be the next best thing}

5. Spring Cupcakes with Lavender Icing {lavender brings a delicious aroma to your kitchen, and breath}

6. Strawberries and Cream Cheese

7. Spicy Chocolate Cake {jalepenos and chocolate = mmmmmmm}

8. Olive Oil Vanilla Ice Cream {not just for cooking anymore}

9. Sweet Potatoe Pudding Cake {this one is inspired by a very popular Jamican treat...so no problem mon...give it a try}

10. Balsamic Spiked Strawberries

If none of these make your mouth water you can always check out the 5 Top Desserts from NYC Wine and Festival's "Sweet"

Enjoy!

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.

And the Winners Are!

First, Congratulations to all of the wonderful couples and families that I had the pleasure of meeting yesterday at the Bridal Open House in Waupaca.  I hope you all had a great day and found some great inspiration to make your wedding celebration yours. 

Now, as promised...our wine winners are ~

And...the lucky winner of 100 FREE INVITATIONS is {drum roll please}...

Congratulations to all of you!  I will be calling and emailing to make arrangements for drop-off. 

And, Amanda...YAY YOU!!  We will talk soon.



Theme Thursday: Peacocks!

This weekend I am attending a Bridal Open House in my hometown.  I really wanted to use the "Rustic" theme that everyone seems to be loving lately, but I also really wanted to stand out.  This is the board that I put together to follow my theme through {notice the burlap along with all of the bright elegant colors}.

Crazy for the Peacocks!!!

Watch for the pictures from the show next week.  I am bringing my camera so I will be posting pictures of my booth.

Leave a comment and tell me what you think of the colors.  Also, make sure to follow and share my blog for weekly tips, ideas, themes, and all around fun wedding stuff.  

I LOVE this theme!!!

Bridal Shows: Survival Tips

It is that super fun time of year that wedding vendors start putting together unique ideas to get your attention at Bridal Shows all over the country.  And, that does include me!  Here are 10 tips for you to get the most out of your bridal show experience - and NOT let yourself get too overwhelmed.

1. Register before the show.  This will save you time when you get there.  You won't want to stand in line and wait, with all of the other "day-of" registerees.  Just walk in, smile, get your bride badge, and have fun.

2. Wear comfortable shoes.  You will be doing a lot of walking...enough said.

3.  Bring somebody fun with you.  This could include your wonderful fiancee, your mother, or a couple of your besties. 

4. Make a sheet of return address labels.  There will be a lot of sign-up drawings and labels will make it so much easier for you. 

5. Make sure you have an agenda.  What do you want to accomplish at the show?  Are you just starting out, or do you only need to find the perfect baker?  What vendors do you really need to look at?  Don't spend a lot of time looking at flowers if you already have your florist booked.

6. If you talk with a vendor that you really like, and seriously are considering for your wedding - put their information in a pocket...NOT the show bag!  Or, bring along a zip-loc and put the information in that.

7. Create a new email account JUST for wedding stuff.  This will keep you from losing important information from vendors.

8. Ask a lot of questions.  Make a list of questions before the show and ask them all.  That's what the shows are for.

9. Most bridal shows have a fashion show - check it out!  Take a break, drink some champagne and enjoy the gowns...you might see something you really really love.

10. Have fun!  Bring all of your information home and review it.  Most vendors offer show discounts, but don't feel like you "need to sign up now!"  Take your time and make sure you book with reputable companies that you know will do a fantastic job.

Do you have any bridal show stories to share?  Comment below and tell us all about it!

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!!

Elements: Color

Col-or
noun

Color is an important element in our lives.  It can help to calm us, excite us, even help make us feel refreshed.  It can show our personalites, help us to convey an idea, and for some, it could represent culture and religious views.

I LOVE using color in weddings.  I think it great when a bride gets colorful shoes, the tables have colorful flowers and centerpieces and the lighting adds a colorful hue to the room.  Read below to see what your wedding colors might say about you.

Red {action, courage, confidence and vitality}

Red is a color that evokes energy and excitement.  It draws people together and stimulates conversation.  When using red as a major color in your wedding decor, you should be planning for a very exciting event.  Turn your music up and  let it all out!

Orange {thoughtful, sincere, creative and endurance}

While red is accociated with fiery heat, orange is associated with the warmth of the sun.  It is thought to stimulate endurance and creativity and helps to give relief from stressful situations.  If you want your wedding celebration to keep from getting too serious, add orange to your color palette.






Blue {calming, inspiration, spirituality}

Blue is the coolest color.  It is often a color chosen by more conservative people and encourages conversation and peace.  For a more serene, yet exciting night, any of the variations of blue are great choices.






Yellow {wisdom, joy and happiness}

Like the energy of a bright sunny day, yellow brings clarity and awareness.  Yellows work great with greens and oranges to help create a lively upbeat celebration.










Green {nature, fertility and life}

Green symbolizes self-respect and well being and is the color of balance.  It is a color that will encourage your guests to unwind and yet will give enough warmth to promote comfort and togetherness.  This is a safe color, so if you're just not sure where to start, start with green.








Brown {nature, wholesomeness and dependability}

Since brown is a neutral color, it will work well with almost any other color and will work in any season.  Try not to use brown by itself though...boring!














Purple {dramatic, sophisticated and royalty}

Dark purple is associated with luxury and creativity and is a wonderful accent color.  Lighter shades of purple will bring you peace of mind.








What are your favorite color combinations?  Let us know!