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!

Real Wedding: Bryna and Nick

Well, it has been a long time since I've posted, but it has been a busy summer.  YAY!

This wedding was this last weekend.  July 16, 2011.  The couple, Bryna and Nick, were the greatest bride and groom a planner could ask for!  Nick saw the venue, a barn at a local bed and breakfast, for the first time on Friday for the rehearsal.  Luckily, he loved it.  {I wasn't too concerned...he is a great guy!} 

Friday afternoon was fun.  Family came together from all over, for the first time in years.  The rehearsal was fast, the weather was HOT, and the drinks were cold! 

Saturday was even hotter than Friday so the main thing was to keep ice in the galvanized buckets to keep the water, beer and sodas cold.  I had a "Lemonade Stand" set up so I needed to make sure that stayed cold and filled too. 

As people poured in, about 30 - 45 minutes before the ceremony, the bar was busy!  Bryna and Nick had family members make pies for their Pie Buffet {no cake!} which was a perfect set-up for their reception.  The people kept coming, and so did the pies!  I think they had a total of 26 pies - Blueberry, Strawberry Rhubarb, Sweet Potato, Peach, Coconut Creme...and many many more! 

At 4:15 people took a lovely walk through a gorgeous garden, with water fountains, to the backside of the property.  They walked along the pond with the waterfall rushing down the rocks to the far back largest Weeping Willow tree I've ever seen.  As 4:30 rolled around it was time to gather the groom, flower girls, the adorable little ring bearer and the family members.  It was the most relaxed processional I've ever witnessed.  The flower girls and ring bearer just kind of did their thing walking down the "aisle"...it was great!

As soon as Nick and the officiant, Sam Gorski, got to the opening in the willow, it was time for Bryna and her father to make their way down.  She was a little nervous, but so excited!

Their ceremony was short and sweet - about 15 minutes. 

As soon as it was done, people made their way back to the barn for some cold refreshments and food.  The catering was done by Rockman's Catering and the menu was all Bryna and Nick's.  All of the food was from family recipes.  Bryna wanted a very laid-back, picnic style reception and that was most definately what it was.  The guests didn't have to wait for the bride and groom to show up, they just got to eat.  We had Honey Baked Chicken, Prime Rib Sandwiches {with the cutting stations}, a ton of sides and salads.  Bryna had also gone to a local farm and bought a TON of fresh fruit.  This was laid out on a table in baskets, like you'd see in a farmer's market.  The best thing of the entire day was when Bryna and Nick both told me everything was better than they imagined it could be!

So, this was part 1 of the wedding day.  Part 2 was full of a live band - not your typical wedding band either!

The Rooftop Jumpers filled the rest of the night with loud, funky music that EVERYONE danced to.  I never thought I'd be at a wedding with a cover of a Ramone's song being played and the groom's father bouncing around on the dancefloor.  It was great!

Now, Bryna and Nick will be off on a 4 month honeymoon camping and hiking across Europe.  I wish them all of the happiness in the world!

Real Weddings: Italian Style

Marzia and Maurizio: romance and fun in Venice

Marzia and Maurizio got married last summer in a small village not far from Venice.  This was a typical Italian wedding that Stefania would like to share with us. 

If you are interested in having a destination wedding in Italy you can contact Wedding Planner Venice.

Everything started on the hottest Saturday afternoon of the year in the tiny medieval San Gregorio church, hidden in the Venice countryside.

Marzia had a traditional white dress and a gorgeous one rose bouquet.

The path to San Gregorio church is sooo nice and romantic, Marzia's brother walked her to the church along a medieval alley surrounded by the castle ancient walls!

After the wedding ceremony, their friends wanted to play some jokes on the couple, which is something typical in the Italian tradition.

The funniest one was seeing Maurizio taking Marzia to the reception venue using a little chariot! OMG!  Thank God friends were there to help them!

Marzia's visions for her day were simple: roses and lights!  Roses and lights were everywhere with candles in the church, candles in white glasses at teh restaurant, and flying lanterns in the night!

Red rose petals were spread on the restaurant tables as well among the candles.  And for a little lighting emphasis, the rose petals were lying on mirrors along with the candles.

 

Pictures courtesy of Gian_KGB
Wedding Location: Villa Policreti, Aviano
Wedding Church: Chiesa San Gregorio, Castel D’Aviano
Lanterns: www.lanternevolanti.com

Do you have a Real Wedding that you would like to share with us?  Leave your email address and let's blog!!