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Thinking Outside the Cake Box

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Feb 122012

I worked at prestigious wedding venue for about 5 years, so I have cut my fair share of wedding cakes. So believe me, when cupcakes became popular, I was very excited. Brides could save $1.00 per person on the cake cutting fee, and I was saved from creating a mess. I actually had it down to quite the art form.

But like all trends, they come and go. As I was doing some research for a client, I noticed there were more and more options for couples, which went outside of the wedding cake box. Some of them were really cool and unique. So I wanted to share with you some of the photos.

Here is my disclaimer… not all of them are my taste. But, they might be yours, so I wanted to include them! If you like, take these ideas to your cake vendor. They might be able to include these, or do them in place of your traditional wedding cake. Leave your guests saying “wow, I have never seen that before”!

Mirror Mirror on the Wall… Choosing a Wedding Dress

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Feb 062012

Choosing a wedding dress… It has to be one of the first things you think about immediately after you say “I do”. Or if you are like 75% of brides, you already have a pretty good idea of what you want before he even pops the question. There are so many styles, cuts, fabrics, designers, etc. and trends are changing almost every two days. What you liked last week may be the last thing you would choose to try on this week. Couple things to remember when shopping and ultimately choosing a wedding dress.

1. Remember who you are. We are not all built like a super model, but that doesn’t mean we all can’t feel like one. If you dress for your body type, you will be a knock out. If you choose a dress that looks awkward on you, or looks like you squeezed into it, you may look less than your best.

2. Location. Are you getting married outside, on a beach, in a church, in a hall, etc? These all might affect the length, style and color of wedding gown you choose.

3. White is not white. I took a bride dress shopping last week, and she tried on a gown and gushed… “I didn’t think I would look this good in a white dress”. I giggled, that’s because her dress wasn’t white, it was off white. And no one would know the difference unless there was something stark white next to the bride. Choosing a color slightly off from white will compliment almost any skin tone.

4. Opinions are good. But remember yours is the only one that truly matters. I suggest taking a wide range of people shopping with you. Mom (she is always honest), best friend (she will know today’s trends), brother (he will give the male perspective), your planner (she will be able to remind you of things such as your scheme, location, etc). BUT it may be a good idea to go alone the very first time (or

just with one solid person). This will allow you to get an idea of what you like before you allow too many opinions.

5. Comfort. Most important question is ‘are you comfortable’. Do you feel amazing? If you feel uncomfortable, you will look uncomfortable. Make sure you LOVE it. It will be in every picture you take, you will remember it forever.

Venues Are Growing Up

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Jan 302012

It seems like only a few years ago, the preferred venue choice for a wedding was a bigger than life ballroom at an upscale hotel. My challenge was always how to make the ballrooms pretty, because generally speaking, they weren’t. Money had to be spent on lighting, walls of fabric, elaborate centerpieces, etc.

However, it seems recently that brides are breaking out of the ballroom box and getting more creative. I have many brides ask me for venues that offer inside and outside locations. Or venues that would allow for partially tented areas. I have to say, I am pleased with this turn in preference.

When you can utilize Mother Nature, you can cut a tremendous amount fro your budget. One venue in particular has an entire window wall that overlooks a beautiful grassy knoll. So the dining area is lit with natural light and it’s a gorgeous view.

It also seems that brides also want to offer the convenience of ceremony and reception in one location. These venues are perfect for an outdoor ceremony and an inside dinner. And if the weather is poor, you can always move the ceremony inside.

So think outside of the ballroom box when choosing venues. You might be surprised what you find!

Por Favor; Please Forgo the Wedding Favor

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Jan 212012

I have planned (and attended) enough weddings to be able to say this next line with 100% conviction… wedding favors are a waste of money. Ok yes, they are a splendid way for a couple to show their appreciation for their guests’ attendance. However, if I had the money spent on every favor that I saw tossed in the “gar-bosh” then I would be a wealthy woman. I understand the need to say thank you, so please let me help introduce you to a few ways to do that, without throwing away your hard budgeted money.

(1) A photobooth… the average cost for this is about $400 and it provides your guests with a unique souvenir that they might actually hold onto! This would average only $1.60 per person for a 250 person wedding. WAY cheaper than any favor you can order.

(2) Donation to a charity… this is especially meaningful if there is an organization close to your heart. Maybe it’s an animal focused charity, or something that supports cancer research.

(3) An added dessert… serve something in addition to your wedding cake. I would recommend an old fashioned popcorn cart, cotton candy machine, build your own sundae bar, nostalgic candy bars, etc.

(4) A fireworks show… elaborate, I know. But a standard show costs approx. $3,000 and if you have 250 guests, that’s $12.00 per person.

Any of these options are things your guests would much rather enjoy, than a mint tin with your name on it. Or a wine stopper with a heart on it. Get creative, think outside of the box, and imagine what YOU would want if you were a guest at your own wedding.

Bring the Party In, Or Take The Party Out?

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Jan 182012

When hosting a party, before you decide on themes, color schemes and menu, you must decide where you will be having your soiree. More specifically, should you hold it inside or outside? I know what you might be thinking… mosquitoes, ants, heat, snow, rain, humidity…. why would anyone want to go through the uncertainties of an outside affair? Actually, it’s much easier than you think!

With the use of beautiful tents, portable air conditioning and heating units, and wonderful caterers, partying outside can be a breeze (no pun intended)! In order for your outside party to be a success, there are three critical things to keep in mind during your planning process.

Flat Ground: There is nothing worse than uneven tables, as they usually result in sliding food!
Solid Ground: One picture comes to mind… women in nice heels attempting to walk in squishy grass. It should be an Olympic sport!
Time of Year: An outside event can work ANY time of year, if you remember certain things for each season. If it will be snowing, make sure a covered pathway to restrooms and to/from parking is provided. If it is spring (aka: rain season), make sure to have side flaps on the side of your tent. This will ensure your guests will not be drenched. Other than that, the sky is the limit!

One major upside to an outside party: the scenery is so beautiful, be it fall, spring or winter. Keep in mind that this has the potential to save you big bucks on decorations. Nature will do all the legwork for you. And, as always when planning a get together, have fun and be creative. And if you need help, I am always here!