BUDGET TIP ~ Wedding Cakes

We wanted to share this idea with you, it is from my (Denice's) mother in law, She saw it on the Rachael Ray show:

Twin sisters were sharing their tips for saving money...coupons, free online birthday offers and ways to save on your wedding costs. One of the sisters whose wedding would have cost over $20,000 spent only $6,000!

One of the savings was on the wedding cake. She said she went into the bakery and said she needed to order a cake for" an event". A specialty cake for 200 people. All she said was it was an event...she didn't tell them it was for a wedding, (that jacks up the price immediately). Soooo it might not be as elaborate in decorating but you can add your own flair and your cake topper. I think she said that she spent $200 instead of $1,000. The cake was still delicious.

Just thought it was interesting if a bride is on a budget!! Brilliant!!

*hugs*
Denice & her Mother In Law: Normie Dunes =)

Photo Credit: Photography By Soozie

Fun Wedding Ideas

Here are some blogs I ran across recently who had some super cute ideas I had to share:

Ruffled Blog: Great DIY ideas, photos from real weddings, vendor locator and a recycled wedding section where you can buy or sell!

April Foster Events:Over all fab site! Lots of ideas and advice for your big day.



Wedding Gawker: Awesome wedding sites and ideas from ALL over the web!

*hugs*
Denice

123Print’s $1,000 Wedding Invitation Giveaway!

New Wedding Invitation Giveaway: $1,000 worth of High-Quality Wedding Invitations from 123Print.com!

Good news! KDC Events is joining with 123Print.com, the popular online printing company, for a great giveaway for all brides-to-be. One lucky winner will receive $1,000 worth of wedding invitations—FREE! If you are planning an upcoming wedding, or know someone who is, just head on over to the Wedding Invitations Giveaway page at 123Print.com to enter.

The giveaway contest ends on July 20, 2011, and the giveaway winner will be chosen on July 25, 2011.

Wedding Song Wednesday ~ Just You and Me by Rie Sinclair

This one comes to us from my pal over at Strawberry Freckles- Thanks Jill!!

Just You and Me by Rie Sinclair



Do I need to be invisible to just survive
Or am I foolishly wasting my time
I try so hard to quiet my expensive dreams
Before they take me out leave me wondering

Baby its just you & me
we got a thing they cant shake
Maybe its a little hard sometimes to take
But Ill tell you something, its a life worth living
Just so you know, I wouldnt give it up no.

Is it all a market war in this economy
Filling up headlines with our fantasies
System fails hard & we fall apart sometimes
But then you pull me back with your quiet smile

*hugs*
Denice

Wedding Song Wednesday- Steven Curtis Chapman: I Will Be Here

Welcome to our new installment...Wedding Song Wednesday!  Each Wednesday we will introduce you to a great song to play or have sung at your wedding service. If you have suggestions, PLEASE send them in!

Our first song is one of my personal favorites.  It was sung at my wedding in 2001.  The words are amazing:
Steven Curtis Chapman \ I Will Be Here




Tomorrow morning if you wake
up and the sun does not appear
I will be here
If in the dark, we lose sight of love
Hold my hand, and have no fear
'Cause I will be here

I will be here
When you feel like being quiet
When you need to speak your mind
I will listen
And I will be here
When the laughter turns to cryin'
Through the winning, losing and trying
We'll be together

I will be here

Tomorrow morning, if you wake up
And the future is unclear

I will be here
Just as sure as seasons were made for change
Our lifetimes were made for these years
So I will be here

I will be here
And you can cry on my shoulder
When the mirror tells us we're older
I will hold you
And I will be here
To watch you grow in beauty
And tell you all the things you are to me

I will be here
I will be true to the promise I have made
To you and to the One who gave you to me
Tomorrow morning, if you wake up
And the sun does not appear

I will be here
Oh, I will be here

*hugs*
Denice

Choosing the Right Florist: Floral Artist & Master Designer- Kenji Takenaka

The venue is booked, now it’s time to decide on one of the most important elements of décor—the flowers. There are almost always certain factors a couple tends to overlook when it comes to choosing the right type of floral arrangements for the wedding.

For instance,—whether high or low, small or large—couples sometimes fail to visualize the whole reception room when making decisions. Sitting at a table with a tall floral arrangement obstructing the view of the New York City skyline or clear turquoise ocean, is just one of the many mistakes a couple may make when deciding floral table décor.

Kenji Takenaka, floral artist and master designer of Noir Hanna International, a premiere, world class floral design company in New York, is available to provide tips on what couples should know before meeting with florists:

Timeline
Book the florist at least 6 months prior to the wedding date. Couples want be certain to book their florist of choice, especially if the selected date is a popular one. Waiting too long may result in losing the first option.

Choosing the right size
There are many factors to take into consideration when determining the right-sized floral table arrangement for the wedding. Couples should consider the look of the venue, spacing, table setup and linens, to name a few. “Bigger is better” may not apply for a particular venue. Although flowers are a great focal piece for any wedding, floral centerpieces should fit the overall look.

Season-friendly=Budget-friendly
Ask the florist what flowers are in season around the wedding date to conserve costs. Requesting certain flowers off-season can take the budget to a higher than anticipated number. Flowers that are in-season will cut costs significantly, without having to compromise the overall look of the centerpiece and end product, keeping the couple happy.

Listen to the expert
Take a step back and leave it to the expert. Trusting the florist is imperative to achieving the best look for the wedding. Micromanaging can limit the vision of the florist. The florist has been hired based on the couple’s taste, now it’s time to give the initial vision and leave it in the florists’ hands.

Reuse flower arrangements
When deciding on ceremony floral arrangements, why not consider arrangements you can reuse for the reception? Don’t let the stunning ceremony arrangements go to waste. Arrange for your ceremony flowers to be moved to the bar for décor.

Meet Kenji Takenaka
Under the artistic direction of Kenji, Noir Hanna has a flourishing clientele of high-profile institutions, celebrities and the fashion industry. Noir Hanna remains on the cutting edge of floral design with Kenji’s relentless quest for fresh new ideas that are always executed to his highest standards of quality. Kenji takes an architectural approach to flowers: modern and minimal. He is one of the pioneers of the fuss-free floral look. Known for his minimalist style, Kenji often makes arrangements with masses of a single type of flower and color.

Kenji’s green thumb stems from a long family history in Japan. A fourth generation florist, Kenji has lived with flowers all his life. For more than 100 years, the Takenaka Teienryokka Company has been committed to keeping the value that has established itself as a legend in the floral industry. With more than 20 branches and dozens of floral boutiques throughout the major cities of Japan, the Takenaka Teienryokka Company is the country’s leading floral provider. While this family-run business embraces both their past while always striving for the future, such aspirations do not come without leadership.

In 2009, the Takenaka Teienryokka Company was ushered into the American market with the opening of Noir Hanna International in New York City. With his high level of creativity and technique; Kenji is poised to introduce his family’s philosophy and Japanese style to the American public. The Noir Hanna International brand is now paving a new road in the American floral market – and starting some new traditions of its own along the way.

Hope this helps in your next floral appointment!  I hope to be interviewing lots of different floral designers to get lots of great perspective, so check back!

*hugs*
Denice

Photo and Content Credit: KMR Communications

The Royal Dress

I have not seen ALL of the Royal Wedding coverage, but here is a link to the Royal Channel on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/TheRoyalChannel

Now on to the DRESS!!!  It's AMAZING, FABULOUS and totally classy! I love it!
What are your thoughts?

I love this photo! That little girl is priceless!

See more photos and videos by checking out the site I grabbed the photos from: http://royalwedding.yahoo.com/photos/sets/1092/The-balcony-kiss.html

*hugs*
Denice

Photo Credit: Royalwedding.yahoo.com

The Royal Wedding Time Line

Set those DVR's for the biggest event of the decade! The Royal Wedding of Prince William and Kate.  (Check your local listings for coverage.) After browsing many Royal Wedding news tid bits out there, E! Online had the best time line.

Here it is in a nut shell, and YES the timing is THAT specific!!!  For a detailed time line, check out the post on E!

8:15-9:45 a.m.- General congregation guest, begin to arrive.

9:50 a.m.- Distinguished guests arrive.

10:15 a.m.- Prince William & Prince Harry arrive.

10:20 a.m.-  Members of the royal family arrive.

10:42 a.m.-  Prince Charles and Camilla arrive at the Abbey.

10:45 a.m.- Queen Elizabeth arrives at the Abbey. She and Philip are to be the last of the VIPs to arrive.

11:00 a.m.-  Here comes the bride!

12:05 p.m.-  The service ends.

12:15 p.m.-  Bells will herald the newlyweds' departure, via (weather permitting) a 1902 State Landau Coach (the same open carrier ridden by Prince Charles and Diana) to Buckingham Palace.

12:30 p.m.-  The Newlyweds arrive at the Palace.

1:25 p.m.-  Kiss me, Kate! The newlyweds will emerge together on the balcony at Buckingham Palace.

1:30 p.m.-  A flyover of the Royal Air Force and Battle of Britain Memorial Flight will mark the occasion.

1:40 p.m.-  The Queen-hosted reception begins at the palace.

3:30 p.m. - William and Kate depart the Palace.

7:00 p.m.-  Final reception to be hosted by Prince Charles which will not, include the queen.

I can't wait to see what Kate is wearing! Check back in for our Royal Wedding Reviews!!

For more Royal Wedding Reads go to: http://www.eonline.com/uberblog/royals/index.html

*hugs*
Denice

Photo Credit: abc news

Designer Ice-Cream...YUP!

Are you are interested in something different for your upcoming Wedding or Event? Tired of the same old cake?  Maybe that candy bar is soooooo last year? Well then check this out! I received this press release from my friends over at Kern Communications.  It's about this up and coming trend...Designer Ice-Cream! Yup, I said Ice-Cream! Check it out:

Brides, grooms, wedding and bridal shower planners indelibly searching for ways to make their event memorable should integrate super premium ice cream into the experience, which can be done in a multitude of inventive ways. This according to Ellen Schack, CEO of Cowabunga Ice Cream – a super premium designer ice cream and healthful frozen yogurt brand to exhibit at The Great Bridal Expo in New York on April 8, 2011.

“Top shelf ice cream can elevate a wedding, reception or bridal shower experience from ordinary to extraordinary,” notes Debra Kulovitz, vice president of sales for the Great Bridal Expo Group, Inc. “From elegant ice cream bars at spring and summer soirées, to decadent build-your-own banana split or ice cream sundae stations, to wedding or shower cake à la mode, integrating sumptuous ice cream into the experience is one tasty way to create a distinctive event and sweet memories for all. We’re thrilled to have Cowabunga Ice Cream exhibiting at this year’s event.”

Ellen Schack, CEO & Edward (“Ed”) Schack, Co-Founder of Cowabunga Ice Cream

“Our inspired ice cream blends offer an exquisite epicure experience that’s perfectly suited for special occasions and celebrations like weddings and bridal showers,” notes Schack. “This is why we offer our fabulous frozen confections for full-scale catering nationwide.”

Those who’ve experienced Cowabunga Ice Cream rave not only about its bold, creative flavors, but also the fresh and creamy taste said to make other “premium” ice creams taste “day old.” New York Times bestselling author Omar Tyree has proclaimed Cowabunga as “the Louis Vuitton of ice cream,” while ActionCOACH business consultant Steve Vorrius declared, “Once you taste this ice cream you will never look at ice cream the same again.”

Cowabunga Ice Cream offers a wide variety of perennial and seasonal flavors, with many that are exclusive to the brand. Offerings in its current designer ice cream line include:

Rodeo Drive Designer Flavors:

Cookie Dough - Cookie dough flavored ice cream with chocolate chip cookie dough chunks and dark chocolate chips mixed in
Mint Chocolate Chip - Cool mint flavored ice cream with dark chocolate chunks
Cake Batter - Cake batter flavored ice cream that tastes just like out of the mixing bowl
Almond Joy - Coconut flavored ice cream with almonds and dark chocolate chips mixed throughout
Coffee Espresso - Rich coffee flavored ice cream with chocolate covered espresso beans scattered throughout
New York Cheesecake - Luxurious creamy cheesecake flavored ice cream including real cheesecake chunks and graham cracker swirled throughout

Off 5th Avenue Chocolate Flavors:

Classic Chocolate - A rich and decadent chocolate ice cream
Death by Chocolate – Chocolate ice cream with chocolate chunks, chocolate cake “crunchies” and fudge swirled throughout
Chocolate Peanut Butter – Chocolate ice cream swirled with creamy peanut butter

Lux Vanilla Flavors:

Very Vanilla – A smooth and velvety vanilla ice cream unlike any other
Take 5 – Vanilla ice cream with peanuts, caramel, and chocolate covered pretzels mixed in
Rice Krispy® Treat - Vanilla ice cream with marshmallow swirled throughout and Rice Krispies® mixed in

South Beach R.E.A.L. Yogurt – all flavors are low fat and contain probiotics to naturally promote healthy digestion:

Red Velvet Cake
Peanut Butter
Chocolate Cable Car
Strawberry

Those wishing to order Cowabunga Ice Cream or inquire about event or catering services may do so online at http://www.cowabungaicecream.com/.

The Cowabunga Ice Cream Difference:

Cowabunga Ice Cream is made in small 5 gallon batches. This allows us to keep our consistency creamy by controlling each step of our proprietary production process, including avoiding aeration. We do not “skimp” on anything, using only use the highest quality ingredients to ensure the utmost in flavor, texture, and decadence. For our designer ice cream line we also use a high butter fat content base, which is integral to achieve a ultra-creamy ice cream. Our exclusive recipe and production process ensures a minimal amount of air rather than over-aeration, a common ploy of mass-production manufactures that undermines the creaminess and density of the ice cream and artificially inflates volume.

*hugs*
Denice
*NOTE- I have not tried this product. Content is provided for information only.

Photo & Content Credit: Kern Communications

Upcoming Bridal Shows- So Cal Area

Interested in attending an upcoming Bridal Show? I just received this one in my inbox today, and it looks pretty good.  I have never been to this one, but thought I would share the info:

Premier Bridal Shows
SEE 100s of ideas and services for your wedding day including:


- Fashion
- Advice
- DJ's
- Wedding Planners
- Florists
- Photographers
- Videographers
- Honeymoon Travel
- Transportation
- Invitations and much, much more!

Brides receive SWAG Bags filled with goodies from Crate & Barrel, Magazines, Wedding Planning ideas, Samples and more!

May 1, 2011
Ontario Hilton
Over 300 Brides already registered/tickets sold!

May 22, 2011
DoubleTree Anaheim/OC

June 5, 2011
Long Beach Convention Center

http://www.premierbridalshows.com/showdates.htm

*hugs*
Denice

Photo Credit: http://www.premierbridalshows.com/index.htm

Weddings by Costco?!

In today's economy everyone is looking to save a few bucks, and when it comes to your wedding why not! I was doing some recent shopping at Costco and in the checkout line came across the recent Costco Connection titled, Weddings by Costco. Wait....What?! Yup! Duh...what a great idea!!

Think about it, according to the Association for Wedding Professionals, a couple in the US will spend roughly $19,581.00 (between $14,686 and $24,476) not including the cost of the honeymoon or engagement ring.  WOW! That's a lot of dough!

So why not save where you can...right?! Well here is a list of what's available for your big day from Costco:

- Wedding Dress (article on the dresses from the Costco Connection)
- Diet and Weight loss
- Flowers (Centerpieces, Bouquets, Boutonnieres, Corsages, DIY Centerpiece kits, Etc.)
- Invitations (Save the Date, Invites and Thank you cards)
- Rings
- Gifts
- Food (bakery/reception)
- Honeymoon

I can personally vouch for their flowers.  For my sister in laws wedding last May, we pre ordered pink and white roses.  We picked them up the night before and they were BEAUTIFUL!!!  Flawless flowers, and it was so easy and half the cost of a florist. Here is what they looked like. We did arrange them ourselves in our own glassware:

So, give your local Costco a call and save yourself a few bucks!

*hugs*

Denice

Photo Credit: Costco Connection and Me!

Are You a Gracious Bride? Wedding Question Wednesday

Question: Am I a Gracious Bride?

Answer: Holly Lefevre from over at Hip Weddings has a FABULOUS list that EVERY bride should carry in her bridal bag. We have all seen the unsightly bride on TV.  She is demanding, pushy, rude, ungrateful, nasty, inconsiderate and above all...a Bridezilla! No one wants to remember themselves, their daughter, friend or sister as, "that bride".  So - READ this list, memorize it, and then go buy Holly's book so you are sure to keep up on everything Wedding Etiquette.

Top 10 Things A Gracious Bride Knows
(list provided by Hip Weddings)

1. Just because others do not know proper etiquette, doesn’t mean you should ignore it.

2. Be humble. You may be a bride now, but soon you will re-enter life as a mere mortal.

3. Respect tradition, but give it your own personal spin.

4. Mind your manners. “Please” and “Thank you” will take you a long way.

5. These people are your friends and family – they do not work for you, but are here to help you…because they love you.

6. Don’t assume anything - ask questions and get the details in writing.

7. These people are your GUESTS! Don’t keep them waiting and don’t ask them to pay for anything.

8. Treat your vendors kindly, and they will do the same for you.

9. Thank you notes are a must. It is never wrong to express your thanks to your parents, your guests, and your vendors.

10. If it doesn’t feel right don’t do it. When in doubt trust yourself.

Holly also has a new book coming out, The Everything Wedding Checklist Book: All you need to remember for a day you'll never forget (Everything Series)- you can check it out at Amazon.

Click here for Holly's Gracious Bride post.  Thanks Holly for being so knowledgeable!

*hugs*
Denice
Photo Credits:
Bride: Photography By Soozie
Book: Amazon

Financial Support for the Big Day- Who Has a Say? ~ Wedding Question Wednesday

Question: My mom doesn't agree with me on anything, the dress, the venue, the menu, not even the colors! They've threatened to pull their financial support if I don't cave in, but it's my wedding, they already had theirs! What should I do?!


Answer:
From a Mom:
My answer only reflects being the Mom. First off it seems like tempers have flared and there is a standoff going on. They need to sit down as a family and talk. I would like to tell the bride how since the day my daughter was born I realized someday she would marry. Marriage is a great day of celebration for the bride and the groom,but it also is a celebration of her parents giving her away.

I told my daughters that when planning the wedding they didn't have to accept all my suggestions, but they had to respect my requests. We talked about how much we were willing to spend, how many people would attend and what we felt comfortable doing. Our daughters shared their requests and from there we had developed a plan.

I hope the parents realize that they are taking the happiest day of all their lives and clouding it, but I hope also that the bride sits down and listens to what they have to say. It is not all about the BRIDES day, but a true celebration of uniting two families. I told my girls "remember the smile on your face when you got engaged and after the wedding is over and you are leaving the reception, I want to see that same smile". Then I know we have succeeded.

From a Dad:
There has to be some sort of understanding of what a budget means. Nobody wants to feel taken advantage of. So if you want something that takes the wedding way over budget, you need to consider cutting somewhere else, doing without, or paying for it yourself. Respect the people "gifting" you your wedding, and be appreciative of ANY amount that is given. Many parents didn't have any money to offer. If yours do, you're a LUCKY GIRL!!! (from a dad, with no fashion input, just financial)

From the "K" of KDC:
Comprise is key. Maybe bend on the colors if they let you pick venue ... the guy writes the check writes the rules sometimes. Lol!! That is what my dad told me. =)

I hope these different perspectives help! Let us know.
*hugs*
Denice

Photo Credit: Kano Photography (Katie's wedding)

I'm A Mother-in-Law! What's My Role? ~ Wedding Question Wednesday

Today's question comes from Emily, author of Scribbles from Emily

Question: As a mother-in-law, how involved can I be in the wedding planning without overstepping my bounds?

Answer: I believe a Mother-in-law and a Mother can be very involved in the planning of a wedding. It's a good idea to all sit down BEFORE the planning begins and see what everyone's expectations are. Once this is done, you will know where everyone stands. You then can start setting YOUR expectation. The main thing to remember is that everyone has feelings and everyone has been planning and waiting for this moment.

One tip I always follow is to never say NO, and never shut someone down.  The way to handle it with tact is to say something like, "That is a great idea, we will keep it and see how everything comes together, thank you." OR "that is a lovely color, I am just not sure how it will look with everyone's tone and hair color". See you are taking their suggestion into consideration, and not putting them on the defense!

Try to head off confrontations by:

1. Not putting people on the defensive
2. Keeping everyone in on the plans- don't leave out important details, dates and times- keep everyone informed
3. Try incorporating some of the traditions from each side of the family
4. If you give in a little you can take a little =)

Here are some great blog post on the Bride and Mother of the Bride by Holly Lefevre.  I HIGHLY recommend reading them!! Also check out our post on last minute to do lists!

*hugs*
Denice

Photo Credit: Kano Photography

Maid of Honor Duties ~ Wedding Question Wednesday

Today our question comes from Tina over at (Florida) Girl With A New Life

 

Question: I just got picked to be Maid of Honor. So what are my most important duties?

 

Answer: Tina this is a GREAT question! There are so many opinions on what the Maid of Honors actual duties are. I believe the number 1 duty is to be there for the bride. There will be times through all the planning that there is no one for her to turn to to complain, nag or boss around, and she will turn to you, her #1 gal pal.  Remember to not to take things personally.  Brides put themselves under so much (unnecessary) stress. Be there to help guide her, keep her organize, and most of all help keep her grounded. 

Here is a more accurate list of Modern Day Duties of the Maid (or Matron) of Honor:

Pre-Wedding:

• Plan/help plan the shower, and, if the bride wants one, a bachelorette party. If the bride has an involved mom and/or sister, coordinate with them on dates
• Dress shopping!! Go with the bride to look for her gown, and help shop for the bridesmaids’ dresses
• Be sure all brides maids have scheduled dress fittings, and are all aware of required attire (this includes hair and make up)
•  Be in attendance for all prewedding parties (if you are local to the bride and groom)
• Help arrange hotels if needed for the bridal party
• Let others in the bridal party know where and when pre wedding events are (rehearsal)
• Help address invitations if necessary
• Lend a hand in scouting venues, caters etc. if asked
• Help keep the Mother of the Bride informed as to what current happenings are (this is if the bride is forgetful)
• Help dress the bride
• Be sure to have a bridal day emergency kit on hand
• Help with last minute wedding to do lists

During the Wedding:

• Arrange the bride's train and veil before the ceremony begins and if necessary while at the altar, hold flowers if necessary, and help bustle the brides gown before the reception
• Keeper of the groom's ring during the ceremony (I usually place it on my thumb)
• Carry tissue in case it is needed
• Be an extra set of eyes to be sure all is set up to the brides specifications
• Be sure all attendants receive their flowers

 Reception:

• Sign the marriage license with the best man
• Play hostess (as well as with the other bridesmaids) at the reception by helping seat guests, usher where gifts can be placed, and where they can sign the guest book.
• Toast the new couple
• Help the parents of the couple get the gifts home from the ceremony
• Be sure the cards to the couple are kept safe
• Keep the guest line moving, and collect the money if they are having a money dance

To learn more about wedding etiquette, Check out this great little book by Holly Lefevre, "The Everything Wedding Etiquette Book: From invites to thank you notes - All you need to handle even the stickiest situations with ease" you can visit Holly at her web site.

 

Here are some other sites to check out:

http://www.bridesmaid101.com/maid_of_honor_duties.html
http://www.themaidofhonorguide.com/
RealSimple Check list

*hugs*
Denice
Photo credit: Me & Holly Lefevre

Wedding Question Wednesday ~ Bridesmaid Dress Drama

Our question this week comes from Emily (scribbles from emily):

Question: I let my bridesmaids pick out their dresses, and they can't agree on anything. Well, except that they don't like whatever I suggest. The deadline for ordering dresses is coming up, what should I do?

Answer:  Wow Emily, you are a nice bride! This is actually what a lot of brides are doing in today's weddings. One suggestion might be that YOU choose the color and style (short, long, sleeves or no sleeves) and leave the rest up to the ladies.

Give your bridesmaids simple guidelines, yet freedom at the same time.  By doing this, you will not only let them find a dress that they are comfortable in, but also that they will fee confident in wearing. This helps you to have fantastic photos!

Make sure you have an "alternate" dress chosen, at a reasonable price so that if someone is unable to find something they like, they have to take the alternate to be in the wedding. This ensures that all dresses are ordered on time.

Many bridal stores are even getting in on this idea. They are offering lots of dresses, in lots of styles all in the same color pallet so they match. Check out David's Bridal and Alfred Anglo.  I know they both cater to this since I have recently used both of them!

One of our close friends and recent bride Millie, did this.  She had a Beach wedding in San Diego and a large amount of bridesmaids.  She gave them the specifications of color (black) and style (short).  Millie also let them choose their own shoes as long as they were 1) Fabulous and 2) yellow.  Here is a shot form her wedding:

Also check out our last post on Bridesmaids and Dress shopping.

Hope this helps!

*hugs*
Denice

Photo Credit: Photography By Soozie

Wedding Question Wednesday ~ Reception on a Budget

Hello all! I am so excited to be back with Wedding Question Wednesday! I alwyas loved how many questions we received, and how much we were able to help all of our fans and readers. We hope this 2011 edition of Wedding Question Wednesday is just what you ordered.

Please feel free to send us your questions and concerns wedding related.  We also would love to help with ALL your event related questions, so send them in!

Our first question of 2011 comes to us from Jill.  She is the author of Strawberry Freckles, super cute blog, check it out.


Q: Is it possible to have a ceremony/reception for less than $1,000. no flowers, no attendants, no frills...just people and food and music.

A: Of course it is Jill! The first thing you are going to have to do is accept the fact that you are not going to have a lavish event. I have helped give MANY wedding/events that are "do it yourself" and on a strict budget. The key is to PLAN AHEAD here are some tips:

1) Utilize your "network of contacts" If you are having a ceremony, get someone you know who will perform it as their gift to you. If you are already legally hitched, there is no need to have someone ordained, just someone who can give a nice ceremonial address.  IF you are not legally hitched already, you can look into having a friend ordained. Either way, getting someone you know to "gift" you the ceremony helps eliminate the cost.

2) Another way to utilize your "network of contacts" is to get your people to help out. Have the event at home or a relatives home (saves the facility rental cost). Ask your family and close friends to help cater your event. Almost potluck style, but better organized!! This is another area you can ask for "gifted" items. If you know someone who makes cakes, ask for their help!

3) DJ your own event by creating a your own music play list. You may need to borrow or rent sound equipment, but that's ok!  Ask an energetic friend or family member to MC the event to keep it rolling.

4) If table rentals are out of the question, start collecting borrowed tables/chairs ahead of time. Sometimes your church will let you use them =) Same goes with table cloths.

5) Make your own giveaways. A great idea for a giveaway is a homemade CD with a personalized photo cover. You can make them yourself and package them really cute.  Here is one we did:

6) Make your own centerpiece.  Keep it simple. Here are ones we did a t a wedding with the flowers from Costco and the vase from the 99 cent store. The photo frames were also home made. Photos printed by the maid of honor and the frame was painted black. Super easy!

7) Put up LOTS of white lights! That makes any event better and sets a great mood. I would steer clear of balloons...those belong at birthday parties, not weddings. Also add your own touch. Tulle is nice touch.  We even made chair bows with ribbon from the 99 cent store and flowers from the dollar tree!

 

 

8) Limit your guest list. The more people, the more moooolah!

9) Ask a friend to take photos.  I know that these are your memories, but it is hard to find a photographer when on a strict budget.  If you know one who is a friend...ask them to gift it! OR try trading for service.  It is also fun to create a "photo op" to keep things fun. Here is one we did at an anniversary party:

and last but not least...
10) HAVE FUN! Make the day about you and your new hubby. The event should reflect YOU two as a couple.



Here are a few website links that are a great resource:
http://hipweddings.blogspot.com/2010/05/lot-of-color-lot-of-spice.html
http://www.budgetawedding.com/2010/08/cheap-chic-wedding-reception-ideas
http://www.budgetawedding.com/2010/08/how-to-successfully-plan-wedding-on/
http://www.budgetawedding.com/2010/10/five-diy-wedding-table-decorations

Good Luck! Let us know how it turnes out =)

*hugs*
Denice

Photo Credit: Us

Need Great Invitations or Cards?

I was approached by my friend Angie, she owns Flowlines Design Flowlines Design, Inc., and asked if she could use my family's photo for samples on her web site for holiday cards.  My response..."You want to use MY family photo?!" Wow!! What an honor! So, I sent over a few pics and waited to see our shining moment.

Here we are:

Here is Angie's cute family:

If you are in the market for great, quality cards or invitations, call her or check out her web site!  She is professional and QUICK!  The Holiday cards I received were so beautiful (some of you are receiving them in your mail box's soon, if not already) and not too bad on price.  Yes, I did receive a discount from her for pimping out my family, but even with out that, I would order from her.

I will post my card after the holiday, as I do not want to ruin the surprise for those of you whom have not received yours yet!

MERRY CHRISTMAS Friends, and a BIG thank you to Angie =)

*hugs*
Denice

Photo Credit: Me and Flowlines Design

Book Review: The Everything Wedding Etiquette Book by Holly Lefevre

I want to introduce you to one of my new bloggy friends, her name is Holly Lefevre.  I met this fabulous woman through two of her blogs, Hip Weddings, and 504 Main.  I fell in love with her posts, they were always full of such great ideas and information.  After reading her blogs for a while, I learned that she is the author of a great book called The Everything Wedding Etiquette Book.  I am a HUGE fan of etiquette (my other favorite bloggy friends is Etiquette with Miss Janice), so I was immediately intrigued!

Holly was nice enough to send me her book.  I read it cover to cover in one night, it is a very easy read, and FULL of great information.  Etiquette is something that people do not spend enough time on these days, so Holly is making it VERY easy for you to stay in line.  She was even gracious enough to answer a few questions for me.  So, without further ado...

Why did you decide to write an etiquette book?

It actually found me. I was working on another wedding project, when this opportunity came along. The other project was not moving along as quickly as I liked so I jumped at the chance to write something for the Everything series. There is a lot of wedding information out there, but I truly enjoy being able to provide advice that is real and honest - weddings are amazing but not always fun and "hearts and flowers" - there is real emotion and problems involved too. I had also been a speaker at bridal shows for years, covering planning design, and etiquette, so this was a natural progression.

How long did it take you to write the book?

If I recall the whole process was only about 3-4 months. Since this book is part of the Everything Series, there had been previous editions. I was not starting from scratch, but rather updating and rearranging a previous edition, which in some ways is a lot easier than starting from scratch, and other ways not. While I had the basic premise and a lot of viable information already, it was up to me to update the book with new etiquette questions and standards, to make the book my own, and to make it fit withe the series of books.

 

What is your favorite section of the book?

Tough one - they are all my favorites in different ways and for different reasons. I think I like The Business of Being A Bride. So many brides do not realize what it takes to pull a wedding - as they envisions weddings to be - off. I strive to be realistic in my advice and answers. I want them to understand this is a business for the vendors and for them, for two reasons...I do not believe in negotiating anyone to death or manipulating anyone into a price or service they cannot afford...this is both for the vendors and the brides. I want brides to realize help is out there in the form of a wedding planner or by involving your groom or family members. As much as I wish everyone would hire a wedding planner, I know this is not going to happen, so I really want to educate brides.

Which etiquette standard is ignored the most by brides, or grooms?

The one etiquette standard I see brides wanting to wiggle on all the time is not having the guests pay for anything. Too many times, to save money they want to have a cash bar or have the guests pay for their own valet parking. No, no, no! If you cannot afford it do not do it. Plan a wedding within your means.

I once worked with a couple who married at a major luxury hotel. They thought food was of the utmost importance (which it is to a degree). They had 10 different hor d'oeuvres and paid over $10,000 for their cocktail hour and then refused to pick up the valet parking (the only parking available without having to walk a number of blocks) bill of $10.00 per car. The hotel was even advising against this amount of hors d'oeuvres and they refused to listen. As a planner you can only do so much. Couples should also learn to trust the experts they hire and are working with.

Overall I say being gracious goes a long way. I was fortunate to work with mainly wonderful, kind brides, but I have also worked with my share of diva brides. The guests are paying the bride and groom an honor by coming to the wedding, as the bride/groom is honoring them with the invitation. This extends from beginning the ceremony on time and not making the guests wait for an unreasonable amount of time to planning your timeline so that guests are not left waiting for 2 hours for dinner to begin after the ceremony to playing appropriate music at the appropriate times of the reception.

 

Some of my Favorite Holly posts:
~ A Gracious Bride Knows
~ What's A Mother To Do?
~ True or False...The Mom's Must Match?

THANK YOU Holly for writing this book. I hope future brides realize how important it is, and read it! If you are interested in buying Holly's book, check out Amazon.
 
*hugs*
Denice
 
Photo Credit: http://hipweddings.blogspot.com/

Last Minute Wedding "To Do" List

The last few weeks leading up to your wedding can be hectic.  Making sure everything is done, is enough to cause you (the bride), your mother, sister, best friend, soon to be mother in law, sister in law, father, dog, cat etc. to have insomnia! Trying to get every detail completed is complicated and almost impossible. That's because it takes a TEAM!

Here is a list that we have come up with to help you in your last minute planning frenzy.

1) Contact local and nearby hotels and reserve blocks of rooms for your guests. This help them by getting a discount rate.

2) Make sure you use the restroom BEFORE you put your dress on!! This goers for all members of the Bridal party!

3) Have the bridesmaids help keep the Mother of the Bride and Bride in the room out of sight of guests.

4) Draw out and list the details for your table set up, this includes: the gift table, cake table, guestbook table, bridal tables, reserved tables, guest tables, children's tables etc.

5) If there is to be water/wine/campaign in the glasses, be sure someone knows so they can notify the on site planner if this is not done.

6) Designate someone to hand out all the flowers- make sure they know who is to have them.

7) Create a photo shoot list of all the photos you (and your families) would like taken. Most likely your photographer will do this with you. Soozie, owner and photographer form Photography By Soozie,  is a great resource and fabulous photographer, check her out!

8) Be sure your Maid of Honor helps you get your garter on.

9) Designate someone to help pack up left over giveaways that were on the tables.

10) Designate someone to help gather up all the decorations that belong to you, and pack them up.

11) Designate someone to gather all of your gifts and cards, and load them into a car.

12) Make sure you notify the on site wedding planner to pack up any left over cake, and leave it with your parents (or another trusted person).

Do you have any suggestions we might have left out?
PLEASE share!!!

We hope it helps!

*hugs*
Denice

Photo Credit: Photography By Soozie