Martha Stewart University

I must say that I LOVE, Martha Stewart and all that she does. She just embodies everything chic and classy about weddings.

So I was catching up on my latest posts on The Bride Guide and I noticed that she has something called Martha Stewart University. Well, you know me being in awe with Martha and all that she knows, I instantly went and found out what it was.

Well, she now has a place where you can download informational segments about everything from gowns to flowers, hence the name Martha Stewart University. The segments are 60 minutes and are 12.95 but you can actually walk away with all of her knowledge and expertise on everything wedding.

They even have it where you can purchase them as gift for a bride to be, an aspiring wedding planner or someone who just loves weddings.

Check it out and learn from the pro.

Happy Planning,
Shafonne

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Beat the Heat at your next Summer Wedding

So you are looking at your calendar and it is full with Summer wedding. So I have gotten together some tips to help you beat the Heat and stay cool.

I found a great article on About.com by Nina.

Your Outfit
Look for a cotton sundress or other clothing made of natural fibers. Loose fitting clothing will be your friend.For men, consider a light tan suit, or the old-fashioned chic of seersucker.

Stay Hydrated Everyone knows water helps keep you cool. So carry a bottle of water in your purse. If you're a man, ask your date to hold it for you, or bring it in a white gift bag.

Horses Sweat, Men Perspire, Ladies Glow
To combat sweat, don't cover your face with a thick layer of powder. Instead, do what top beauty editors do to rid themselves of shine - blotting papers. These powdery pieces of paper will absorb oils without coating skin. I especially like the blotting papers that Bobby Brown makes, which come in chic little packaging. But there are less expensive options that work as well.

Don't Sink!
The Wedge Will Save You!Stilletos are great, but they won't work at an outdoor wedding. Whether sinking into the grass, or tripping on cobblestones, you'll wish you'd worn a more sensible shoe. A wedge heel will be far more comfortable. Or, you can go for the very trendy ballerina flat.

Act Like an Onion – Wear Layers
If you're traveling to another city, make sure you pack a cardigan or jacket that coordinates with the outfit you plan to wear to the wedding. Even on a warmer day, a light sweater will keep the sun off of your shoulders, preventing sun damage.

Wear Sunscreen
It may seem like a no-brainer, but sunscreen is a must. Especially when you're trying to stay cool, the last thing you want is a blistering sunburn. You never know when the sun will shift, and you'll be standing in full sun, without the possibility of moving to shade.

Consider a Hat
In Europe, wearing a hat to a fancy wedding is de rigueur. So adding a hat to your outfit will not only shield your face, but it will add some European punch to your ensemble.

Parasol Means Stop the Sun
You remember how chic Audrey Hepburn looked in My Fair Lady. You don't have to be as fancy as she was to carry a parasol to shade you from the sun. Be sure to sit in a place where you aren't blocking others' views.

Happy Planning,
Shafonne

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Cosmo's Anyone?

So it has been so hot lately that I was setting last night thinking about drinks and the all time classic came to mind "The Cosmopolitan".



It is such a great drink, esspecially in the summer when it is warm. It would be a great choice for a signature during a cocktail hour or a wedding reception.

You could even put a nice twist to it by calling it a cute name like "The ____ Cosmo" and put in your name or your new last name. It really personalizes it.




So I figured for all those out there that might not have experienced the Cosmo, the recipe is below.

Basic Cosmo Drink Recipe

1 ounce vodka

Cranberry juice cocktail

Pour 1 ounce vodka and cranberry juice cocktail over ice in a cocktail shaker. Shake til chilled. Serve on the rocks in a Highball glass.


Spiffed Up Cosmopolitan (This is the best Cosmopolitan Drink recipe, in my opinion.)

1/2 jigger lime juice

1 jigger vodka (Absolut Citron vodka is best)

1 jigger Triple Sec

1 jigger Cranberry Juice Cocktail

Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add all of the ingredients. Shake til very cold. Strain into chilled martini cocktail glass. Garnish with a slice of lime.

Recipe courtesy of Hubpages.




Happy Planning,
Shafonne

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Do and Don'ts of Cutting your Wedding Cake

Cake by Hanic's Cake Shoppe






I found an article today that I thought was very informative and well written in regards to the traditional cutting of your wedding cake. The article was found on WeddingCakeCreations.com

Weddings are heavy with tradition and symbolism and cutting the wedding cake is certainly among the most significant acts that the married couple will do at the reception hall. It is a moment that symbolizes so many things including the couple’s fertility, the first act performed together and the beginning of their new life. It is a sentimental moment that is also very festive and merry. In order to make sure that the cutting of the wedding cake goes off without a hitch, here are a few tips for you to follow:

Dos:

1. Make sure that the timing is appropriate. If you are hosting a brunch or tea, cut the cake just after the guests have gone through the receiving line. If you are throwing a lunch or supper reception then cut the cake after supper and just before the desserts are served.
2. Make sure to get everyone’s attention by either having your MC announce the event or by replaying the first dance song. Then have someone from the bridal party – typically the best man make a toast to the couple.
3. Cut the cake with the groom’s right hand gently holding the bride’s right hand – and make sure to slice through the bottom layer!
4. Feed one another from the slice you cut. Typically the groom will first feed the bride and then the bride will feed the groom.
5. Make sure that the bride serves the groom’s parents a piece of cake and that the groom serves the bride’s parents a piece of cake.
6. Designate a friend or someone from the catering staff to cut and serve the rest of the cake to your guests.
7. Make sure that the photographer and videographer are aware of the event before cutting the wedding cake.
8. Try to use a special silver cake knife – either an heirloom or one that you purchase especially for the occasion.

Don’ts:

* Although some people like to smash cake into each other’s faces, it is not a very elegant or dignified thing to do. Not only will it ruin the bride’s makeup (which in many cases was applied professionally) but as this is the first act that the couple performs as husband and wife, it does not bode well for a future of wedded bliss – besides, everything you do will be captured on film and video for generations to come.

If there is a sweet table being served at a wedding, it is generally opened with the cutting of the cake. After this tasty ceremony it is time to hit the dance floor and truly enjoy this day on which you begin your new lives together


What flavor did you get for your wedding cake?

Happy Planning,
Shafonne

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Unveiling the meaning of your Wedding color

Ever wondered why you chose the color that you did for your wedding?

Colors play a huge part in the wedding planning process, invitations, linens, bridesmaids dresses, etc. Colors can speak volumes about a couple's style and personality. They can symbolize a wide and crazy couple with bold and wide colors or it can be a reflection of a cool, calm and collected couple with soft and subtle colors. Whatever your personality is it can be illustrated by colors.
Below you’ll learn the meaning of common colors and the psychology associated with them.

• Red - Red is stimulating and exciting. This color adds drama and draws attention to itself. Red is often used in restaurants or dining room as it is said to stimulate the appetite. Use red as one of your wedding colors if you would like to increase enthusiasm, stimulate the energy of the crowd, or evoke a sense of protection from anxiety or stress.
  
• Orange - Orange is a dichotomous color - most people either love it or hate it. Innately though, orange adds warmth and brings a sense of fun wherever it shows up. Like red, orange is said to stimulate the appetite. It also helps encourage socialization - which is great at the reception!
  
• Yellow - Yellow adds cheer and happiness to any occasion. It brings with it a sense of optimism and lightness. Choose yellow if you would like to encourage communication or would like a color that is mentally stimulating at your wedding.
  
• Green - Green is the favorite color of many, second only to blue. The most abundant color in the natural world, green evokes a sense of calm and relaxation. Green is also said to help alleviate depression and anxiety. Use green in your wedding color palate if you want to exude harmony and peace on your day.
  
• Blue - As stated above, blue is the most popular "favorite color" of all of the colors. Blue is typically seen as a calming, serene color. Think of water and how it can produce feelings of tranquility - blue is associated with this feeling. Blue also stands for trustworthiness and commitment. Compared to red, orange and yellow, blue is a cool color and if chosen, will add to the ambience of your wedding if chosen.
  
• Purple - The combination of red and blue, purple is both uplifting and calming. It is often associated with spirituality, creativity, and royalty. Use purple in your wedding palate to bring the feeling of romance, enchantment and whimsy to your day.
  
• Pink - The combination of red and white, pink is the color of sweetness and love. Pink will induce feelings of caring, tenderness, love and acceptance. It also encourages relaxation and contentment.
  
• White - White symbolizes purity, clarity, and new beginnings—making it perfectly clear that it is tradition for brides to wear white gowns.
  
• Black - Black is the color of sophistication and mystery. This color brings with it the feeling of potential and possibility. Black is perfect for formal evening weddings since it transcends time with its classic style.
  
• Brown - Brown is the color of earth and symbolizes stability and the natural world. Brown makes us feel grounded and connected to nature. When used in conjunction with brighter colors, it serves as an anchor making the palette more balanced.

Hopefully this has helped to find your perfect wedding color or to explain why you chose the wedding color you have.

Thanks Nicole at My Wedding for the color information.

Happy Planning,
Shafonne Myers

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Bridesmaid's Dresses that all Bridesmaids will LOVE!!

Who hasn’t been in a wedding where their dress was hideous? You never wanted to see it again much less have to wear it. But times are a changing. Long gone are the taffeta dresses with the puffy sleeves. Designers are making bridesmaid’s dresses more sophisticated and practical.

When choosing bridesmaid’s dresses make sure to think about all of your girls. Not all girls are built the same, so make sure to decide on something that will complement all body types. Two-piece dresses can really come in handy when dealing with different body types because people can get a style and fit that works best for her. Also make sure to incorporate colors into the decision. Pinks and peaches look good on all body types. Don’t forget about black and navy. The darker colors are definitely making a come back.

The lengths of the dresses also make a huge impact on the reusability. Cocktail and tea length dresses are very popular and can easily be reused. The longer evening gown lengths can still be useful but not worn as often.

There are so many styles for bridesmaid’s dresses so make sure to really consider your bridesmaids when deciding on the dresses because they do have to pay for them. The more they like the dresses the more they will be willing to pay for them.















Check out these great styles at Bridesmaid Corner in Richmond, Va

Happy Planning
Shafonne

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What NOT to do for Wedding Favors

I have found "The Wedding favor DON'T list" with the help of Dream Wedding on a Budget, whom I found on Blogged. Which is a cool new site, well new to me, that is simpler to Twitter.

But anyway, I found this article and it is so amazing.

It originally was posted on Weddingbee. The way the post is set up is that it was started by a weddingbee, MightySapphire and then she posed the question to add any wedding favor that you got and didn't like. So it has multiplied into this vast post about all of those wedding favors that you get that you wish you wouldn't have.

The wedding favor DON'T list


If you are looking for the RIGHT favors, vist my friends over at To You A Favor

If you have gotten any favors that you could have done without, TELL US!!











Happy Planning,
Shafonne

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Top Ten Bridal Shower Themes

Ever wonder what the top ten bridal shower themes are. Well I have found them in The Wedding Book by Mindy Weiss


1. Alphabet Shower: Every guest is assigned a letter of the alphabet
and asked to bring a gift that starts with that letter.


2. Around-the-Clock Shower: Guests are assigned a time of day and asked to bring a corresponding gift. Eight in the morning might elicit egg cups or juice glasses; 11 P.M. might mean a nightie.

3. Around-the-House Shower: Each guest is assigned a room and brings a gift for it. The living room might prompt a throw for the couch, while the bathroom might get you his-and hers bathrobes.

4. Holiday Shower: Not a good shower for basics, but a festive option if you're having multiple showers. Everyone is given a holiday and chooses a gift in keeping with the day.


5. Kitchen Shower: Guests are asked to bring a gift to help outfit the kitchen.
That could mean simple gifts like a set of dishtowels or a lemon zester, or a more elaborate pick like a mixer.


6. Lingerie Shower: Another perennial favorite, the lingerie shower is ideal as a second shower. Let the host know key sizes in case guests ask for guidance.

7. Recipe Shower: Guests are asked to bring a favorite recipe and the key kitchen tools needed to make it.


8. Stock-the-Bar Shower: A popular option at couples' showers. Guests help fully outfit a bar.


9. Home Improvement Shower: Also popular for couples' showers, this theme allows the couple to get all the screwdrivers, drills, flashlights, ladders, and other gear they'll need around the house.


10. Gadget Shower: Guests are asked to bring a gadget that changed their lives for the better.

Happy Planning,
Shafonne

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How to save on Wedding Rings?

So now you are engaged and are looking for wedding bands. Here are a few tips from Elegala on how to save when looking for wedding rings.


1) Lose the Embellishments
Plain and simple always costs less. Any embellishments increase the price.
And sometimes all of the extra stuff just takes away from the actual ring. Simple is way more elegant.

2) Forego Platinum
If you’re on a budget and want a silver hue, skip platinum and opt for white gold – it costs about 45% less.
This is such a great idea especially for guy's wedding bands. I got my husband a platinum, very expensive one and he ended up bending it because Platinum is very soft. So I would definitely advise against getting a platinum ring for men that do any type of heavy lifting or work with their hands. For men, I would recommend a Titanium ring, very nice looking but still very reasonable.

3) Just Short of a Carat
For diamonds, always buy just short of the next carat level. So if you’ve got your eye on a two carat stone, swap it out with a 1.8 carat. You’ll save almost 20%, and the size difference is negligible.

4) Get a Set
Buy a matching or coordinating set (engagement and wedding ring) – and you can save as much as 50%. You’ll save even more if you buy a three piece set (engagement ring plus his and hers wedding rings)
Great idea because anything brought in a group is going to be a better deal.

5) Go Local
Good at haggling? Skip the national chains and test your bargaining skills at a local jeweler. You’re more likely to successfully negotiate prices at a privately owned jewelry store.

6) Upgrade Later
If you’ve got your heart set on a ring that’s out of your budget, consider purchasing a “starter ring,” and upgrade on a future anniversary.
This is by far the most valuable suggestion to cut down on wedding ring cost. Plus it gives you something to look forward to.

Happy Planning,
Shafonne

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Button Bouquets Anyone?

OMG, I found these on my good friend’s website, Truly Engaging and I immediately feel in love. These bouquets, courtesy of RBK Creations are so cute and totally different from anything that I’ve seen.

I think that these will definitely set you apart from any other brides out there.

Look at all the different styles and colors that you can use.









You can even get your husband-to-be in on the fun and get him a cute little button boutonnière.

Would you use anything like this?


Happy Planning,
Shafonne

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