Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Top Wedding Trends for 2010
Trends come and go – something to be thankful for when looking back at wedding fashion in the 1980s. However, we are seeing some interesting things for the first time and Brides are really taking advantage of the options.
Taking Responsibility
It seems to me that this is the first time Brides and their Grooms are realizing that they don’t have to model their wedding after a celebrity in order to have a great day. Brides are taking responsibility for their own choices, tastes and budget when deciding what they want. This is a great thing to see and it leads into the next trend which has become very popular.
Making it Their Own
Couples are looking at tradition like a starting point rather than a rule book. They are putting their own twist on things and aren’t apologizing for it. Their weddings have become more intimate and focus on their families and guests. They aren’t hampered by what “used to be” and go for what works for them. I participated in a wedding where the couple chose to have ceremonial cocktails instead of wedding cake. Their guests were treated to a perfectly chilled dirty martini or a margarita as it slide down the ice shoot of a really cool ice sculpture. The Bride and Groom Wowed their guests even further when they were surprised with an incredible jazz singer singing “At Last” at the very moment the Baked Alaska Dessert was being lit on fire. They knew what they wanted and went for it.
Personality over Etiquette
The personality of both the Bride and Groom has become crucial to setting wedding apart. One wedding that immediately comes to mind is where the couple married in the Groom’s Grandparent’s backyard. The Bride was barefoot and chose to have no attendants but asked all the women in the family to wear bright colors like red, hot pink, orange and yellow. They had a bluegrass band, Mexican candy hanging from the trees and a piƱata for the kids. The food was all prepared by the two families and it was one of the most memorable and inspirational weddings I have ever witnessed.
Dramatic Colors
Very hot colors and unusual textures are being used more than neutral tones. Hot pink satins and very ornate damasks are gracing the tables at the reception and creating stunning and beautiful atmospheres that are extremely unique.
Fruits and Vegetables
Incorporating fruits and veggies either in the centerpieces or decorations is very popular. Brides are also turning to their front yard for inspiration. Use what nature provides and it will be less expensive and very different.
Headpieces
Brides are choosing to create their own headpieces with jewelry or even feathers to get a much different look than the traditional veil.
Cakes
Bakers are outdoing themselves with unbelievable cake designs that look so real you don’t even want to eat them. This is for both the wedding cake and the Groom’s cake which is making a comeback.
The thing to remember about trends is that YOU make them. Future Brides will be attending your wedding and taking notes about things they see and like. That is how a trend is created. So don’t get too hung up on what other people are doing – put some thought into it and create your own. You never know, it might just be the next “hot thing!”
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Saturday, January 23, 2010
How do you plan a wedding if you aren’t a millionaire?
So what do you do if you are not one of these “Platinum Brides?” Is there no hope for your wedding because you have a budget that falls somewhere under the national debt? Of course not.
As a wedding consultant, I hear from Brides every day that think that their wedding is doomed because they can’t spend $50,000. They get caught up in the magic and glamour of weddings depicted on T.V., Bride’s magazines and wedding websites. How does the typical Bride create her dream wedding without the insane price tag?
Be Prepared
I tell every Bride I speak with to create a priorities list. Sit with your Groom and think about what is most important to you. Have you dreamed of a wedding dripping in orchids since you were five? Then this should be number one or number two on your list. Set a list of the top 10 things that are the most important that you have that day and you will have the plan for where you are going to spend your money. Obviously, the higher on the list, the more importance you give. If Videography is not important to you, then you can save money on it and put it towards your flower budget.
Educate Yourself
Arm yourself with tips and trends that will save you money. Make sure you do your homework before meeting with any vendor. There are all kinds of ways to get a beautiful event while saving money. Here are a few:
• Have your wedding on any night other than Saturday. Vendors want to be booked as often as possible and will give great discounts to events that are not on peak days.
• Go for the buffet or family style. Plated meals are by far the most expensive. If you are in the Midwest, most guests like the variety and option to get more if the wish.
• Find a free venue like a park. Obviously, keep the weather in mind, but this could save you up to $1,000.
• Order less wedding cake than you think you need. Not everyone will eat cake and most weddings have it left over. The only time you need to have exact servings is when the cake is served to each person – so have it on a table where guests can pick it up themselves.
• Have your wedding later in the evening. You can opt to have a dessert reception or just a small buffet of appetizers. These are usually shorter as well saving on the time you hire vendors.
• Know what flowers are in season and which are most expensive such as Hydrangeas, Gardenias, Calla Lilies, and Lily of the Valley.
• Choose a Videography package that uses one camera. The more cameras, the more expensive.
• Use things found in nature to use in your decorations. Pumpkins in the fall, poinsettias in winter, potted plants in spring and summer.
• Choose a “Day of Directing” package if you want a wedding coordinator, but can’t afford a full-service package.
What You Can Skip
• Programs. At every wedding I attend there are always programs left. If you feel like you have to have them, print them yourself and only get half as many done as you would think. When you run it – you run out.
• Lined envelopes. Needless to say, they may look nice, but they go straight into the garbage.
• Favors. You are providing a night filled with entertainment and food. There is no need to give everyone a gold-plated name tag holder. No one wants it any way.
• Save-the-Date cards. You can send out emails or call anyone you feel needs to know that far in advance.
• Saving the top of your cake. A lot of bakers are now giving coupons for your first anniversary cake – and it’s fresh!
• Cake Knives. Borrow some from your family members. It will be sentimental and save you $20.
• Disposable cameras. Kids are usually the ones who take advantage of this and you have to pay to have them developed without knowing what is on them.
• Don’t get your dress preserved. The chance your daughter will wear it is very slim. Use it for Christening gowns or other sentimental items.
• Alcohol. You don’t have to have booze to have a great time. Or just offer a signature drink making your expense a lot less painful.
• Assigned seating. People hate being told where to sit and you won’t have to deal with a seating chart or the pesky little name tags.
• The aisle runner. The single most dangerous thing for a Bride. Only reason to have it is if you are dropping real petals and your church demands it. No one can tell the difference between real or fake petals.
Do it Yourself
• Create your own map and accommodations card. This is very simple to do on your own computer and just slip it in with your invitation.
• Buy three candles and decorate them yourself. You can keep them and put them in a prominent place in your new home.
• Make your centerpieces double as gifts for special people.
• Have a non-alcoholic toast. Obviously, there is sparkling cider but you can get more creative. Use a drink that means something to you and your Groom.
• Mix-up the guestbook. A lot of Brides use a matt surrounding their wedding picture and hang it up in their home afterwards. No one looks at guest books after the wedding.
• Does someone have a really cool car you can borrow? Often, Brides will have a family member willing to let them borrow their sports car or classic car.
Don’t be a slave to what celebrity wedding experts are saying “you must have.” Remember, they are not the ones paying for it. Most engaged couples are working or going to school and don’t have the desire or ability to spend a crazy amount of money. Ultimately, you will marry the love of your life and spend the day with close family and friends who will help you celebrate regardless your budget.
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Wednesday, January 6, 2010
How to Make the Most Out of Bridal Shows
This is where vendors come out in droves, packed to the gills with special offers and full of promise for lots of new business. And Brides travel many miles, pay to get in and then.....
stay as far away from the vendors as possible in fear that that they may trap them or worse, con them into buying something they don't want.
Sigh.
The fact is, most Brides don't know how to use Bridal Shows to their advantage. Vendors pay A LOT of money to be a part of these shows so they can be at the beck and call of Brides. They want to answer their questions, show them what they can do and most importantly, save the Brides time by all being in one place at one time.
I don't understand why Brides literally seem scared of vendors during these shows. It happens at every one I attend: they all walk down the middle of the aisle with their posse making sure not to make eye contact or to give anyone the impression they are interested. They look like a deer caught in headlights when someone gets through their line of defenses in order to ask them a question.
Brides: this show is for YOU! Use it to learn as much as you can about each vendor. I am constantly asked about the new trends of the year. Here is a chance for you to see them FIRST HAND! How will you get the information you need if you pass them all by?
I promise - we don't bite.
This is what you need to do in order to get everything out of a Bridal Show:
- Come prepared. Have a list of vendors you know you want to talk to and have a short list of 5 questions to ask them. Consider the show as one big interview. Instead of running around and meeting each vendor at their own shop - do it here!
- Ask for references. Not just from past clients either. Ask for names of vendors that they work with on a regular basis. I can't stress enough how important that vendors "play well with others." Ask vendors at the show if they have ever worked with them before or if they have heard anything about them.
- Be Ready. A LOT of vendors book at these shows because we all tend to give great discounts. Have your budget done and your checkbook with you so if you know you have found the right person - BOOK THEM!
- Have an open mind. Of course you won't need everyone in the building, but you never know what they have to offer and frankly, they may offer such great discounts you may change your mind. You may already have your dress - but you may find another shop providing great prices on gown preservation. Don't miss out on great opportunities.
- Don't go just for free stuff. If you do this, you will be disappointed and nothing annoys a vendor more than a Bride whose first words are, "what are you giving away?" It is rude and you should never do that. Almost all participants in a show will be giving something away, a discount or free services if you are lucky. You will find all of that out - after you talk to the vendor!
- Be organized. You may want to take a notebook with you. Write down the names of the vendors you meet and any notes or quotes that you were given. Trust me, at the end of the day you will have a bag full of "stuff" and you will quickly forgot who you talked to and be overwhelmed.
These shows can be such a great resource for Brides - if used correctly! Go into these events with excitement and optimism and you will not only have a great time, but find the perfect people to help you create your dream wedding.
And if you are in the Kokomo area - I invite you to the Kokomo Bridal Gala on Saturday January 30th at Celebrations. It is a unique show in that it is produced specifically by wedding vendors for Brides. One grand prize always valued at or above $10,000 is given away to one lucky Bride. I hope to see you there!
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Tuesday, January 5, 2010
The Benefits of Getting Married
I have been blessed with a wonderful year. I had the pleasure of working with some incredible people and have also shared the sadness of a few people who had life experiences that weren't expected.
As I sat in my parent's living room the day after Christmas, it suddenly hit me. I now know what marriage truly gives a person. The house was filled with my incredible parents; my brother and his beautiful wife and 4 gorgeous children; my chic sister and her brilliant husband; my gorgeous sister; my aunt; BOTH sets of Grandparents, and my husband and 8 kids. The aroma of delicious food was everywhere and the gifts (known as Christmas Carnage in our family) spilled everywhere so there were very few places to sit. Later in the evening we were visited by my Father's cousin and her boyfriend and one of my cousins and his newly expecting wife.
Controlled chaos would be a good way to describe it. It was very loud, very overwhelming, but very enjoyable. Just imagine 12 kids under 12 running around - you'll get the idea! But Christmas is sacred in our family and always will be.
As I sat on the fireplace hearth (much like Humpty-Dumpty being 7 1/2 months pregnant), next to the love of my life, & surveying the damage; I overheard my Father talking to my cousin who will become a Dad for the first time in June.
He said, "Jake, all of this (as he motioned to the house full of people) started 38 years ago when 2 people fell in love. This could be you in 40 years."
While I watched him smile in amazement and a bit of fear - my mind flashed back to all of the wonderful memories I had growing up in this family. Love was always the reason for anything my parents did. They have been a great role model being married for almost 40 years and both sets of my Grandparents have been married for almost 60!
Marriage is Bliss.
There is no other way to describe it. I revel in the different stages my husband and I have shared over the past 19 years together (6 of them dating and 13 married) and I know it will only get better watching our children grow, taking the traditions we learned from our parents and incorporating them into their own family rituals.
If I could tell every engaged couple one thing it would be this: The wedding is going to be a great party and plan for it well - but you have no idea the incredible journey that you are about to embark on together. It will be filled with joy you never imagined and sorrows you don't ever want to comprehend. But you will do it together, facing the plans God has for you like one person.
I thank my parents and their parents for making the sacrifices it took to us to where we are now. I thank all the families that trust me with such a momentous event in their lives and I thank each and every engaged couple for having the courage to be role models for our upcoming generations. Without knowing it - married people are creating something precious:
A Legacy.
Here's to your Legacy...Happy 2010!
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Tuesday, December 15, 2009
How to Find the Perfect Caterer
In this crazy economy, it seems we are seeing more and more caterers pop up because they have chosen to start their own company. Being in business for myself, I completely understand and applaud this.
However, when you are looking for someone to caterer the wedding of your dreams you are looking for more than entrepreneurial spirit.
How do you find the caterer right for your wedding?
Obviously, there are pivotal questions you need to ask yourself first:
- What type of atmosphere / service am I looking for? Do you want to go all-out and have plated service with waiters or would you like the flexibility of having a buffet so your guests can go up to refill their plates? Don't forget Family Style - one of my favorite choices. Your guests will be served large plates/bowls of food and the table can serve themselves whatever they want. Much like a family dinner.
- How much do I want to pay? If food and service is you first priority - then get ready to pay for it. Plated service is the most expensive. This gives your guests (usually) an entre'e choice and it takes more servers and organization to pull it off. Of course you want good food, but if you would like to save some of your budget for other aspects of your wedding - think of Family Style or Buffet. These are especially popular in the midwest.
- How much do I trust this company? Some caterers need a lot of hand-holding. Do you want to put in this much effort if you are paying a lot of money? Or, do you feel very comfortable with their knowledge and expertise? Some Brides give very basic directions and know that the caterer will do an excellent job fullfilling their vision.
Now, what do you ask the caterer?
- Is this your profession or a hobby? You want to know this is not their first job.
- How long have you been in business? Experience teaches us all a lot! No one is perfect, but if they have a lot of years behind them, chances are they have fixed any problems or they still wouldn't be in business.
- Do you have a website? Brides these days are very internet reliant. If they don't have a web presence, they are either new or haven't caught up with the times.
- May I have 3 referrences of past clients AND 3 of fellow vendors that you have worked with. This is crucial. Most vendors can come up with 3 people to toot their horn, but finding a fellow vendor is not as easy. It is important that a caterer "play well with others."
- As well as your prices, what do you do with left-over food and what happens if we run out? Some caterers will pass on the left-overs to you - some will not. Don't be surprised by that. Good caterers take care of their employees and often take left-overs to a rescue mission. This is frequently extra food they made for "just in case" and isn't really yours to begin with. But a question to ask nonetheless.
- What is your deposit and what happens in case of a wedding cancellation or rescheduling? This happens - in fact, it is happening more often. Deposits or retainers are usually non-refundable so be sure you are ready to book.
- How many staff members will you have on hand - how many waiters, bussers, and how many in the back? I have found that with a lot of caterers cutting down prices in order to get business, they first cut service. You have to make sure that you have enough to actually serve your wedding properly. Get the numbers in writing. Also, if your reception is in a site that doesn't have an in-house caterer, make sure you know if they will be cleaning the kitchen, rinsing china, and taking out the garbage. These are automatic with experienced caterers, but something you need to confirm.
I know it is scary when hiring vendors for such an important day. But if you do your homework - you will be just fine. If they offer a tasting - take it! I am a firm believer in free tastings as well, but this isn't always possible.
In Kokomo, IN there is no exception to this wide-array of caterers available. I have been blessed to have worked with some great ones. I would have to say my favorite is Rozzi's Catering.
Rozzi's has been in business for over 30 years. Started by their late father, the kids have picked it up and run with it doing an incredible job. Jennifer and JoAnn Rozzi have put their hearts and souls into the business and it is obvious. I know when I work with them, I have nothing to fear. Things will be done the correct way & I won't be (or any Bride for that matter) stuck holding the trash bag. They are a true family business in EVERY sense of the way and you walk away from one of their events feeling not only full but loved.
I am a firm believer of letting people know when they do a great job. So I had to take this opportunity to give a "shout out" to one of the best caterers in central Indiana - Rozzi's Catering. If you are in the area and looking for an outstanding experience - give them a call. You won't be sorry.
Make sure you look around and get as much information as possible. It will only help you be happy with the decision you ultimately make.
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Thursday, December 10, 2009
How to pick the perfect bridal bouquet
I really enjoyed speaking with her and she is a great writer. I won't even try to "repeat" what she wrote so check out her blog! Thanks Linette!
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Day of Directing Package Promotion
Over the past 10 years I have had the joy of working with hundreds of couples as they planned their wedding day. I am rewarded daily with the pleasure of watching their families grow, businesses succeed, and happiness expand.
This got me thinking...
The holidays are quickly approaching and this is the time where we all take time to say thank you for all of our blessings. The best way for me to do this is to "give back."
How can I do this in a meaningful way?
It has become very obvious to me that in these tough economic times, Brides and Grooms are really struggling to get the perfect day they want WITHOUT all the stress and drama. I know how expensive weddings can be. Brides are being forced to make the decision to plan their weddings without professional help in order to save money.
While this is entirely possible - it is NOT the best option.
Here is my gift to you:
As a way to give back for all the wonderful things in my life, I want to offer a package that will actually HELP Brides, Grooms, and their families. Generally, my Day of Directing package STARTS at $1500.
If you book your wedding with me between today and November 30th, (to be used anytime between this year and 2012), I will offer my Day of Directing at 50% off!
A flat $750 for any wedding in the state of Indiana.
What does Day of Directing Include:
- Unlimited phone calls
- Unlimited emails
- Up to 2 meetings prior to the wedding date
- Vendor management
- I become the main contact
- Complete set up & tear down
- Assist you with the rehearsal, ceremony, & reception agendas
- Be at the rehearsal to make sure everyone knows when, where, what & how
- Make sure all of the essentials are taken from the church to the reception
- Clean the church to specifications
- Make sure vendors are all there and doing what they are supposed to do
- Fix any problems that arise (a button sewed on, groomsman fainting, any fires that may pop up)
- Be on-site wedding day and be your assistant
- Create the agenda for all of the venders and send it out to them prior to wedding day confirming everything they need.
This would also include a copy of my "Ultimate Bridal Survivor Wedding Guide" (a $60 value) which is a complete planning system for DIY Brides to help you with EVERY aspect of your planning. This planner also includes separate guides for the Groom, Best Man, Maid of Honor, and both sets of parents so all the VIPs in your party know EXACTLY what to do.
This offer is only available from today until November 30th at 5 pm.
Let me take away the stress and overwhelming chaos that planning a wedding can bring and at the same time, save you some major bucks.
Call to schedule your free consultation and I promise you - it will be the best decision you ever made! I look forward to serving you.
References of past Brides and fellow vendors available on request.
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