Real E-Pic Session: Melanie & Chris

Check out this e-pic session. Talk about E-pic inspiration. I arrive upon if from Nycia over at Inspired Events. She posted the wedding pictures of NYC couple, Melanie and Chris Burge. I was blown away by their pictures- they are definitely magazine wedding worthy! Binary Flips Photographers captured their wedding memories.

The bride, Melanie King-Burge has a blog Then Comes Wife. She offers recipes (with pictures), homemaking and marriage tips. I'm truly impressed! I have added it to my blogroll. Melanie's blog also takes a different approach than the typical wedding blog. As you read her posts you get a glimpse into who she is as a woman and truly understand her love for her husband. As she calls it, her blog is "a diary of my real experiences, convictions, and changes". I'm HOOKED. You'll love it as I do check it out. Enjoy the pictures. Oh and look at the couple's wedding pictures here. Homegirl made her own wedding cake!! Outstanding!!

 

 

   Talk about an action shot! Love it!        

Wedding 360 Scholarship Opportunity

About two weeks ago my sister sent me an email about entering the Wedding 360's Academy for Planners and Designers scholarship contest. Here was the challenge:

Wedding 360 is offering 1 scholarship for The Academy for Planners + Designers, which is worth $975! We are going to challenge your creativity!

Here is the challenge:

Using the back story, by Gloria Wong Design, create a visual and written design model to be portrayed:

a) in words, and

b) with a story/concept board, or through a photo of a personally designed tablescape.*

*submitted in jpeg format only to Julie@wedding360llc.com

The Rules:

1) Applicants for the scholarship must have owned their own wedding design or floral design business for at least one year, but not more than 5 years; website or blog address must be submitted with entry.

2) Submissions will be accepted beginning Thursday, November 19th, and will be due by midnight Thursday, December 3rd; each entry will be posted on the Wedding 360 blog, so our readers can offer comments.

3) A winner will be selected based on the following:

-Connection with the design concept

-Uniqueness, creativity

-Innovative use of materials

Are you ready?! Here is the back story from our fabulous designer Gloria Wong of Gloria Wong Design:

"I would like to see how our TAPD Scholarship applicants develop a design concept for opposites. I'm always getting couples with different tastes and it's up to me to meld the two together. I thought of the show Green Acres from the 1960s. Here's the premise of the show: Successful New York lawyer Oliver Wendell Douglas gives up the rat race to fulfill his dream: living the life of the traditional American farmer. Fighting the move to rural life is his glamorous, boa-wearing, city-loving wife, Lisa. Our spin on this is that a farm-owner proposes to his glamorous socialite girlfriend. They are complete opposites. He likes the simple rural country life. She likes the lavish uptown city life. They wish to blend their personalities and styles for their wedding. How do you meld these two lifestyles into a tasteful event?'

The academy information is below. Please click here and leave wonderful comments on my design.

In-depth ‘How-to’ Seminars for Wedding Planners and Designers The St. Regis San Francisco March 14 - 16, 2010

 Created especially for established wedding planners and designers, The Academy will provide a wide range of in-depth, ‘how-to’ classes, taught by nationally recognized leaders in the wedding industry.

Here was my entry.

Sophisticated Country Glam

Fusing the creative elements of the rustic country and the refined elegance of 5^th Avenue, a theme I describe as Sophisticated Country Glam was created. The marriage of bold rural embellishments, a touch of bling, and the rich metallic hues with a pop of mandarin orange and jewel toned flowers are my vision. The wedding will take place on a picturesque country farm. The outdoor ceremony will include bales of hay seating with custom made apricot colored satin cushions. The hay will be arranged in a circular formation to create two intersecting aisle ways. The center of these aisles will be the focal point- a circular arbor decorated with fragrant blooms.

To get from the open field where the ceremony takes place to the barn, guests will take pleasure in a real life tractor ride. During the cocktail hour, 36 inch high and low tables will be fashioned with the apricot-colored satin linen and free-standing sheaves of wheat with floating candles in mason jars as centerpieces. Each will be tied with a double faced satin ribbon.

The satin apricot-colored underlay in concert with a sheer hand sewn embroidered detailed overlay and the rich textured shantung silk napkins are the foundation essentials of my well-dressed guests’ tables. The low centerpieces will incorporate crystal embellished candle holders and full bloomed peonies, roses, and orchids. Over each table crystal chandeliers will hang from the barn rafters. At each place setting, guests will be treated to a small glass jar of the county’s best peach preserves. Guest will also enjoy signature drinks from the bar, play horse shoe, and take pictures in the photo booth. For the bar signature cocktails such as the “Cotton-Eye Joe”, “Moonshine”, “Uptown Girl”, and “City Slicker” will be served.

This sophisticated design has the rural charm with a glamorous flair.  It’s fun and festive, yet elegant.

 

 Tell me what you think.

  

Jennifer Hudson's Baby Christening

Event design Demigod, Preston Bailey, designed the christening celebration for David Daniel Otunga, Jr. Who is he you ask? He is the cute little bundle of joy of Jennifer Hudson. Click here for the original post.

Photo Credit: Allen Cooley

  closeup of centerpiece     I love the light blue pintuck linen overlays.

The Makings of a Candy Buffet

A candy table can be a whimsical addition to your reception, or act as playful and interactive favors. Here are some tips to get you started! (expert advice)

Photos by Union Photography

Presentation

Use a color scheme that matches your wedding palette:  wedding colors aren’t just for the flowers and bridesmaids dresses!   Taking advantage of the colors you’ve already established can enhance your candy table’s presence, and bring cohesion to your entire reception.

Create depth and height in your display:  with simple boxes or even phone books, you can sculpt a beautiful landscape on your table.  You can wrap the boxes in decorative paper, or even leave them bare and covered with matching linens for a refined, free-flowing cascade.

Take advantage of your centerpieces: whether they be flowers, candles, or tiny little goldfish, using an extra centerpiece or two will not only tie into the rest of your reception, but it can also add life and freshness to your candy table.

Don’t be afraid to use trimmings: details like good quality linens, ribbons, and paper can add nice touches to your overall display.
 

Less is more:  trimmings are definitely your friends, but don’t go overboard!  Too many space fillers can potentially clutter your table and cause sensory overload!

Consider the table: where will it be located?  Will there be a nice backdrop or wall behind it for pictures?  Or will it be open so people can access it from all sides?  Will it even have sides, or will it be round?  These are all good questions to ask yourself before deciding on a set-up design.

Candy

Color is key:  as mentioned before, having a specific color scheme can really make your table pop.  Monochromatic palettes can also be striking and elegant.  Make sure to consider different hues and shades – for example, if your colors are red and brown, don’t be afraid of using different shades of reds and pinks.  If using primarily dark colors, try to use trimmings in lighter shades to bring energy to your table. 
 

Check the weather:  Will it be hot or sunny?  Will the table be indoors or outdoors?  If indoor, will there be AC?  If you’re worried about warmth, save the stress and avoid candies that could easily melt (unfortunately this includes most chocolates)!
 

Fruit seasons:  if you’re planning to use fresh fruit on your table (e.g. chocolate dipped strawberries), make sure you consider if they are even in season.  Strawberries in the winter might not be as sweet as when they’re at their peak in the summer!

Not just candy:  if you’re open to treats in other forms, consider mini cookies, kettle corn, or spiced nuts as sweet additions.  Placing the wedding cake or groom's cake on the same table can add visual diversity.

Be creative:  candy isn’t just made to be eaten, but also to play with!  Bundle large lollipops together like a bouquet of flowers, or skewer some marshmallows to simulate kabobs – the possibilities are endless.

Keep it simple: having a variety of flavors and different types of candy can be satisfying to everyone, but don’t be afraid to go with a specific flavor profile.  Whether it be a gummy bear bar or a chocolate truffle tribute, your guests will definitely enjoy the sugar rush!

Don’t buy too much!  It’s easy to worry about not having enough for everyone, but if you’re planning to include a meal and cake in your reception, guests probably won’t be stuffing themselves with extra sugar.  A small portion of ½ cup (4 oz) or less is a good estimate per person.  If you want to buy in bulk for a visual effect, save large containers for popular candies so you won’t have too many leftovers.

Containers and Supplies

More than jars:  apothecary jars and similar containers tend to be the standard, but don’t miss out on other shapes and sizes you can find elsewhere!  Vases are fabulously inexpensive alternatives, and are easy to find.  If you’re going for opaque containers, small pails can give a rustic vibe, and wicker baskets can be cute and lighthearted.   Don’t be afraid to use cake stands, flat platters, and other serving ware to give your guests a variety of ways to choose their sweets!

Scoops and things:  when choosing containers, make sure you keep in mind how your guests are going to get the candy out!  Scoops, tongs, and other serving ware should be small enough to get the goods!

Individual containers:  if your table is set up as a DIY favor station, little bags or mini boxes can be great take-homes.  Dress them up with a little label and ribbon and your guests have a tasty treat for later.  Small, clear plastic cups or even napkins are also cheap ideas if you prefer the candy to be eaten on the spot.

Where to Look

Project Wedding – the forums have a great “for sale” section where you can buy from past brides like you! 

http://www.projectwedding.com/topic/list?message_board_id=26

Online Candy Stores:
-    http://www.candywarehouse.com/
-    http://www.candyfavorites.com/
-    http://www.bulkcandystore.com/
-    http://www.metrocandy.com/home.asp
-    http://www.candydirect.com/
-    http://www.blaircandy.com/
-    http://www.hometownfavorites.com/shop/candy_store.asp
-    http://www.oldtimecandy.com/
-    http://www.groovycandies.com/
-    http://www.sweetnostalgia.com/
-    http://www.nutsonline.com/gifts/weddingfavors/

Local stores for candy:
-    Your neighborhood grocery store: Safeway, Lucky, Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, etc.
-    Bulk stores like Costco
-    Michael’s: they have a special selection of wedding candies
-    Ethnic grocers like Ranch 99 may also carry some unique treats that can give your table a broader range of tastes.

Containers and things:
-    Restaurant supply stores, like Kamei or East Bay Restaurant Supply
-    Save On Crafts: http://save-on-crafts.com/
-    CB2: http://www.cb2.com/
-    Michael’s
-    Furniture stores like Ikea, Crate & Barrel
-    Thrift or second-hand shops
-    Cost-saving stores like Target, Ross, or the Dollar Store
-    Scoops: http://www.lionsdeal.com/wi-as-5.html
-    More scoops: http://store.primaryshopping.net/30002413.html

Taken verbatim from here.

Custom made Ruffle Panties

Oh how I love ETSY. Taking picures for your significant other for V-Day or participating in a Boudoir shoot. Check out these Jasmine ruffled side-tie panties!! They are custom made to your measurements and you have a choice of fabrics. This sexy item is created by Etsy Merchant Espalore.

 

Personalized Baby Shower Stickers

After hours of searching for the perfect sticker for an upcoming baby shower I found Etsy merchant Stickermechic's shop. I ordered the cutest sticker for the dessert buffet carry out containers. They are coming from Canada, so I anxiously await them.

stickermechic's Shop Announcement

Welcome to the Sticker Me Chic Boutique! I sell a variety of stickers for wedding favors which can also be used to dress up any party favor no matter the occasion including birthdays, bridal showers, and baby showers. Use them as seals for envelopes or as address labels.

You can also order any of my sticker designs as 2" round gift tags with coordinating ribbon.

For information on shipping and processing times, please visit my policies.

I will respond to convos within 24 hours.

***P.S. Take advantage of my special offer: for every 7 sheets of stickers you purchase, get the 8th free! Cannot be combined with any other offer.***

Happy Shopping!

I purchased 2 sheets of 30 high quality glossy stickers that measure 1.5" in diameter. Each sheet was $6.75. 
 

MD-DC-VA Wedding Vendors

This coming February, Opulent Creations Events, LLC will join forces with O2 Weddings Photography as we host an uber chic bridal event in Baltimore, Maryland! As part of this special night out – we will be providing custom Serendipity Soiree gift bags and we are hoping to fill those bags with local goodies from our favorite wedding vendors (that’s you!).

 

About the Event:

•  Unparalleled exposure to 100 sophisticated brides 
•  Brand association with Perfect Wedding Guides and Get Married
•  Markets include: DC, Baltimore and Northern Virginia

Join Serendipity Soiree this February to ensure that your brand message is delivered to your target audience in a fun and engaging way! We hope that you will consider donating 100 items to the gift bags. Of course, we will gratefully recognize your contribution on our website, www.ohposh.com. Please email me and I will send you the gift bag donation form to donate an item.

Please let me know if you are interested in working with us on this exciting opportunity, or if I can provide you with any additional information. There isn’t any cost except for what ever you donate. We just want the bags filled with items that the Baltimore Brides will love.

Kind Regards,

Onida Cruz

Onida@opulentcreationsevent.com

Eclatante Event Design

One of my inspirations for event design is a company called Eclatante Event Design & Boutique. They are an event design and coordination firm based out of Philly. On their blog, A Designer's Diary, each month they have a Color Story and I am in LOVE with theme for September (Deep purple and Yellow). Check out the original post here.

Venue:  Elkins Estate on the terrace

Photographer: Marie Labbancz

I LOVE the two-tiered plexi-glass centerpiece structure created by Beautiful Blooms

Pronovias gown provided by Jennifer’s Bridal in Wilmington, Delaware

  

Obama's host 1st State Dinner

My sister sent me the link to the Obama's first state dinner. We both love the color combo of green and gold.

   People take photos at a media event showing a sample display of a table setting prior to the State Dinner for Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in the State Dining Room of the White House in Washington, Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2009.      The handsome couple

Baby Shower Etiquette

Today I found this blog post on baby shower etiquette that I thought was rather interesting. I am in the planning stages of a baby shower that will happen in two weeks. I created the design concept last month and just today finished purchasing all of the materials needed to make it FABULOUS- with a capital F.

Check out the article from:

Second baby/ Adopted baby
Although baby showers are traditionally held for the first baby, there is nothing wrong with throwing a party to welcome a new baby into the family.

Who should host the shower?

The expectant parents should not have to host their own baby shower (Unless you have a type-A personality like me and want to control the decor of the event- :o)). Formal etiquette dictates that the host not even be a relative. Now we all know that expectant grandmothers and aunties LOVE to host baby showers, so that knocks this formality right out the window. Just for the record, it is perfectly fine for close relatives, friends, and coworkers to plan and host a baby shower.

Like any party, planning a baby shower takes time and money. It is not a good idea to ask someone to plan your shower. Let them volunteer. It is perfectly fine to drop hints to let your friends and family members know that you want one.

When should the shower take place?

Most showers are held before the baby is born. Personally, I think it is a good idea to throw a shower during the 8th month of the pregnancy (typically 1-2 months before the baby's due date). During this time, the mother-to-be is usually feeling good and still has a glow about her. She won't mind dressing up to go out. She has probably registered for baby items but hasn't purchased much on her own yet. Having the shower far enough in advance will give the new parents a chance to determine what items they still need to purchase without feeling that time is against them.

Be sure to plan the shower when the most important people (parents, grandparents, etc.) are available. It's ok to tell the parents-to-be if they have plans for a specific date without spoiling th surprise (if you are planning a surprise).

It is also perfectly acceptable to have the shower after the baby is born. In this case, everybody gets to see the baby, which is an extra bonus.

Does the shower have to be a surprise?

This depends on whether or not the mother-to-be would like the surprise.

I am a hard person to surprise because I am always on the go. If you want me to be somewhere, then you have to let me know in advance so I can plan to be there. A friend wanted to surprise me with a shower at a restaurant the week before my due date. It was also a week after my birthday, so I asked if we could get together for my birthday instead because I would probably not feel like driving anywhere that close to my due date. She had to contact everyone to let them know about the date change at the last minute and most of them were unavailable. Who knew?

When to start planning?

Give yourself at least 3 months to plan. Determine your budget and location first. Send invitations about 3-4 weeks ahead. Request RSVPs at least 2 weeks before the party date (expect to receive late RSVPs and guests who "forgot" to RSVP).

Who should be invited?

The final guest list should be reviewed by the guest of honor to make sure no one was left off (or inviting someone they would prefer not to include).

Traditionally, baby showers are for women only, but coed showers are popular and a lot of fun for everyone. The coed shower gives the often left out father-to-be a chance to shine too.

Leave it up to the guest of honor to decide whether to invite men and/or children. Keep in mind that you will have to plan activities to keep all of your guests entertained.

Thanks Randi for the information.

 

Kedai: Smile ~ Snap ~ Share

Last year when I attended a networking event for NJ Wedding Professional I got the experience the awesome photo sharing technology of Kedai. Here is how it works:

Most of your wedding guests' will bring their own digital cameras to your wedding and take just as many pictures as your professional photographer, I know my guests' did. Kedai is a medium to share all of these pictures the day of the wedding. Check it out!

What is Kedai?

Kedai is a small computerized device that allows guests to share their digital photos at your event.

How do guests share their photos?

Guests insert their cameras' memory cards into Kedai's device and follow a few simple instructions displayed on the touchscreen.

What if my guests do not want to share all images on their cameras?

The Kedai console only accesses photos taken at your event. In addition, your guests will have the opportunity to select shots for removal. Kedai has carefully developed these procedures in order to protect users' privacy and comfort in sharing.

 Does Kedai require an attendant?

No. Kedai can be shipped to you and set up by a member of your party. Most guests do not require assistance in uploading their photos. However, if you would prefer the convenience of having an attendant, one is included in two of our packages.

You may order here on the web.

Wedding Veil: Something Old

I LOVE this bride's veil! Paired with the simple, unadorned, J.Crew inspired gown the intricate detailing of the veil really POPS! Shoot by http://www.joeelariophotography.com/

The veil was worn by the bride's mother and late aunt.

Beautiful!!

 

Macaroon's

My girl, Natasha, over at Fete Fantastic is gaga for macaroon cookies, so this post is for you lady!

I received my weekly Etsy Finds e-newsletter today and the title was International Weddings. Highlighted under the "French Kiss" were the macaroon treats of Etsy merchant Lemonadestandnyc. Here is their shop announcement:

We offer feel good treats that taste good, but also do good. A portion of the profits from each sale is donated to Alex's Lemonade Stand, a nonprofit organization dedicated to battling pediatric cancer. Every purchase is a good deed.

Macaroons are sooooooooooooo good and the perfect treat for your guests!

almonds, powdered sugar, eggs, chocolate, vanilla, coffee, sugar, condensed milk, heavy cream, butter, honey, cinnamon, pistachio   

Pumpkin Spice, Maple with maple macarons, & Caramel Apple with cinnamon macarons: Limited Edition

2 x each flavor for 28 macaroons total!$39.00 + $9.50 (Shipping)

Fall French Macaroon Cookies 9 pack $13.50 + $6.00 (Shipping)~ 3 of each flavors

  The following macaroon flavors are available:
Vanilla Ganache
Nutella Ganache
Chocolate Macaroons with Bittersweet Chocolate Ganache
Coffee Buttercream
Caramel Fleur de Sel
Dulce de Leche
Cinnamon Pistachio
Honey Buttercream with Honey Macaroons
Orange Buttercream
Matcha Buttercream
Milk Chocolate and Passion Fruit Ganache

Linen Lounge: Chic for Less

Back in August I got an email from Resource One, Inc. presenting their new line of linens. This new line includes fun and very trendy designs. Visit them on the web here.

CALL US 818-654-0045 MONDAY THRU FRIDAY 9AM - 5PM PST info@linen-lounge.com

RESOURCE ONE  INC.
is proud to present

Linen Lounge
Chic for Less

This NEW boutique style rental collection will provide clients with trendy and stylish linens at a great price
$25 - $45

The items I am most impressed with are the organza chivari chair backs. Check them out below.

 

Inside Weddings Jewelry Box

I purchased the FALL 2009 Inside Weddings magazine and I was so entralled with the "Jewelry Box" article that I had to share. The article is titled "A Personal Touch: Gorgeous jewelry the bride can customize". So let's take a look at my favorite pieces-- I may have to add one to my Christmas list.

    

Monogrammed ring in 22K gold, $2,950 (narrow band) or $3,510 (wide band) by Cathy Waterman. Available at Etcetera Birmingham, AL (205.871.6747) or at select Barneys New York stores, barneys.com.

Locket with diamond detail in 18K gold that holds the talisman of your choice (28" chain included), $5,000 by Wendy Brandes; www.wendybrandes.com

    Initial ring in 18K gold featuring a script-style initial of diamonds set inside a crescent silhouette frame, $2,390 by TACORI; tacori.com.

 Heritage Collection zodiac pendant in 18K gold with diamond accents from $3,450 (chain sold separately) by Chad Allison; chadallison.com, 877.947.7844.

"Musical Symbol" wedding band customized with musical notes from the song of your choice, $1,310 - 2,430 (depending on size, width, and choice of metal) by Krikawa Jewelry Designs; krikawa.com, 888.KRIKAWA.

Large "Calendar Key" pendant in 14K gold with diamond detail, $1,595 by Not Just Any Old Day; notjustanyoldday.com, 818.359.5948. ---This is my FAV!! I'm putting it on my list.

Real Wedding: Meredith and Rodney

For my 25th Birthday party I asked all my guests' to wear red--to match the decor and have a cohesive look. In line with this thinking photographer, Jeremy Harwell, captured the all white wedding of Meredith and Rodney. The couple hosted their wedding at their home--and what an amazing home they have! All the guests wore white to honor the happy couple.

Their vendors:

Event Design, Catering & Florist- A Legendary Event 

Dress- Pricilla of Boston 

Hair- Mika, The Moore Agency & Makeup- Chanel, The Moore Agency.

Here is Jeremy's Bio:

Jeremy Harwell began his award winning career in photography over 15 years ago.

He started his own free-lance business in 1992 working as a photojournalist for several newspapers, covering news events as well as professional sports. He recently spent 8 years at Ralph Lauren, where he was the Creative Director for the  New York stores as well as shooting fashion and interiors. In 2003 Jeremy and family moved to Georgia to live the simple life and start a studio in Senoia.

Jeremy is passionate about lifestyle and editorial photography that is natural and reveals the beauty of the inner person.

Harwell Photography continues to provide clients with fresh, artistic photographic excellence.

Jeremy has won numerous awards including Wedding and Portrait Photographers International Accolades of Excellence. He has also been published in Bride and Modern Brides magazine.

Jeremy is a member of WPPI and Modern Photographers.

Meredith's shoes were killer!!

    

 Love the rhinestone banding on the cake!!

Rhinestone Banding 101

Two weeks or so ago I got a call from a bride in California who saw the Henderson wedding cake and was inspired to add a little BLING to her cake. This post is dedicated to brides wanting the 411 on adding some SHINE to their cake.

First, the correct term for the rhinestone/crystal trim is "rhinestone banding". If you wish to use it to decorate your cake you first need to calculate how much to purchase. It is sold by the yard. Being a math teacher it was easy to calculate the correct yardage once I knew the circumference (distance around a circle) of each layer of cake. So here is the formula:

You take the diameter of the cake layer and multiply it by pi (or 3.14). Here is an example:

Cake Layer 1: 8" (diameter)  x 3.14 = 25.12" 

Cake Layer 2: 12"(diameter) x 3.14 = 37.68"

Cake Layer 3:14"(diameter) x 3.14 = 43.96"

____________________________________

Total:       106.76 / 36 = 2.965 ~ 3 yards

Why divide by 36? Because there are 36" in 1 yard ;-)

I get my banding from a small shop in Manhattan's garment district, but Ebay merchant, Peterhql sells it on the web here. Remember to purchase FLAT backed stones and not pointed!

 Hope this helps. . .here are a few blinged out wedding cakes.

   

Black and White Tabletop Inspiration

The Hostess with the Mostess shared pictures from the 2009 Special Events Conference's Wedding Luncheon. The theme was black and white. Sixteen designers participated to create a tabletop design around the theme. If black and white is your thing you'll love this!

           

 For more click here.

New Promo Material has arrived!!

I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE Chaya of CR Design Studio!! She is the greatest stationery designer around. She has create invitations, menu cards, escort cards, and now my new promo pocket fold. I have changed my logo.

2010 Version of my logo-- On back of pocketfold 

I asked Chaya to design a pocket fold with 3 inserts: The Process, What We Offer, and About Opulent Creations. I plan to add a few embellishments and they will be fabulous!!  With our bridal soiree in February, I am revamping the look and feel of my brand. I am taking it from economy to LUXURY. Stay tuned for more . . .

Video of the Henderson Wedding

Remember the Henderson wedding? Well Andrew Bowser of Monachetti has posted their reception today. Yeah! I viewed it like 3 times already. Enjoy!

Chenise and E.J. from Monachetti on Vimeo.

Video shot and edited for monachetti.com by Andrew Bowser.