Divas and Wedding: Wedding Blog

Thirsty Thursday: Winter Spice Sangria

2012-01-12T10:00:00.002-05:00

This just looks great!! It would be super cute as a signature drink either served out of a pitcher or a punch bowl.

Winter Spice Sangria

Ingredients:1 bottle of Sandeman Founders Reserve Porto
4 oz cinnamon Schnapps
3 clementines, quartered
6 oz cranberries
18 oz sparkling clementine juice or soda
6 oz cranberry juice
4 cinnamon sticks
Ground allspice to taste

Directions:

Combine Sandeman Founders Reserve, cinnamon schnapps, clementine pieces, cranberries, cranberry juice and cinnamon sticks in a large pitcher. Cover tightly and place in refrigerator for at least 8 hours. Right before serving, add sparkling clementine juice/soda and sprinkle allspice on top, to taste.

Happy Planning

Wowing your guests: Guest Transportation

2012-01-09T16:16:00.002-05:00

This is always the best part of planning weddings and events, coming up with new and exciting ways to WOW your guests. The Knot has come up with 30 of them to be exact but I'm going to share a few this week that I just loved. First up is Guest Transportation.

Guest Transportation

I love the idea of giving your guests a fun and unique way of getting to the festivities. You can't tell me that you wouldn't love riding a trolley to a wedding.

Style Me Pretty

What type of guest transportation have you seen?

Happy Planning

Real Wedding Wednesday: Dallas Wedding with Amazing Bolero

2012-01-04T11:40:00.001-05:00

I am in love with this wedding that was on Style Me Pretty today.

I love the dress for starters. It just looks amazing on her and I especially like how the bolero fits her so well. Bolero's can be so versatile, they can be worn during the ceremony but can then be taken off later in the night. I just love them.

I also love the chandelier for the reception. They create such an ambiance but it just astonishes me that they are hanging from a tree. Love it!!!

Happy Planning,

Wrapping Paper + Table Decorations = Amazing

2011-12-27T13:10:00.000-05:00

Now that Christmas is over what do you do with all the wrapping paper. Here is a great idea from a past post.

I got this great post from Preston Bailey's Blog.

I love this! We created a beautiful elegant table all made from wrapping paper, ribbons, and small embellishments. You can do this so easily bust out your scissors and glue guns.

We glued ribbon along the edge of our favorite wrapping paper and add some beading to the ribbon to give it a nice finished look. You can see we made our placemats and table runner like this. Then we cut out images of poinsettias and put them on our candles with some ribbon as well. You don’t need tons and tons of money to have a beautiful table this year.

Who would have known that you could create such a beautiful table out of wrapping paper. It is great!!!

What do you do with your left over wrapping paper?

Happy Planning,

Twelve Days of Christmas courtesy of Plum Pretty Sugar Loungerie and Elysium Productions

2011-12-20T10:13:00.000-05:00

Every Diva needs to have some great lounge wear and this loungerie (love the play on words) from Plum Pretty Sugar Loungerie is amazing, not to mention the video is super cute!!!

Twelve Days of Christmas from Plum Pretty Sugar Loungerie on Vimeo.

Video is courtesy of Elysium Productions

Happy Planning,

Thirsty Thursday: Citrico Snowflake

2011-12-15T10:00:00.001-05:00

Citrico Snowflake

1 1/2 oz Cuervo Citrico
Splash of sour mix

Add all to shaker. Shake and strain into a shot glass. Add lemon wedge and sugar on rim.

Photo and Recipe courtesy of Drink of the Week

Happy Planning,

MagnetStreet's 12 Days of Giveaways

2011-12-14T11:42:00.000-05:00

I love the concept behind MagnetStreet's 12 Days of Giveaways, it is such a great thing. Check out all the details below.

Our 12 Days of Giveaways is underway! We’re very excited to announce that every day thru Christmas Eve, you’ll get a chance to WIN $100+ toward your wedding stationery from MagnetStreet Weddings … Save the Dates … Invitations … Thank Yous … Embellishments … Simply answer the 2 questions of the day and you’ll enter to win {see rules below}.

The Christmas season is all about love, generosity, compassion & goodwill towards others! It’s also a great time to celebrate and give a much-needed shout out to those amazing organizations doing amazing things for those in need every day–both locally & globally. At MagnetStreet, we have a heart for Feed My Starving Children–a Christian non-profit organization that through the help of volunteers, hand-packs meals to ship to nearly 70 countries around the world. In fact, to celebrate our 20th year as a company, all of us here at MagnetStreet donned our hair nets and packed meals for a mere two hours. So easy. So fun. So gratifying! If you’re in Tempe, AZ, Chicagoland or Minneapolis areas and you’d like to learn more, check out FMSC today!

Now, for the Giveaway …

Head over to MagnetStreet for today's Questions and how to enter!!!

Happy Planning,

Warm up with a Tropical Sandals Honeymoon

2011-12-12T14:44:00.000-05:00

It was so cold this weekend that all I could think about was a warm sunny place to go. So I thought why not share some great pictures with you of a tropical Sandals resort. I know it's not the same as going but I guarantee you will warm up and feel all fuzzy inside after looking at the pics.

Visit Sandals to get started planning your tropical vacation.

Could you use a tropical Sandals Vacation?

Happy Planning,

Reducing Wedding Stress

2011-12-01T12:26:00.000-05:00

Holidays and the first of the year are prime times for wedding stress; running around seeing family, trying to work on planning for your big day and even hoping that you will soon have your big day. All these things can add up and cause added stress.

So how do eliminate it. Here are some great tips from our friends at Elegala.com

RS2Guru

Reclaim your life and yourself

What activities comprised your free time before wedding planning seized your soul? Reading? Jogging? Shopping? Crafts? Don’t let those activities slip; take that time to yourself and enjoy the relaxation that comes with doing something that you enjoy. Even if just for a few hours a week, it will make a world of difference.

Reconnect with friends and loved ones

Has it been weeks or months since you spoke with your best friend or sister (NOT about the wedding)? Losing contact is easy when you’re busy or believe loved ones are out of touch with your life. Take some time to reconnect with your closest friends; ask them about their lives. Keep them up to date on your wedding planning – but also discuss other aspects of your life. You are a multi-faceted person, after all.

Cater to someone else for a change

Yes, this is one of the few times in your life when the attention is solely focused on you and your life decisions, and you should enjoy your time in the spotlight. That said, don’t get caught up in the selfishness of being a bride. Do something unexpected for someone else. Take a break from wedding planning and cook a dinner for a friend, serve a meal at your local soup kitchen, babysit for a couple who could use a break…You will be surprised how good (and relaxed) you will feel by making others feel appreciated.

Spend quality time with your fiance

It’s sadly ironic that in the planning of a new life together, couples often struggle to find quality time with one another in the present. The best way to begin a marriage on the right foot is to avoid neglecting your relationship now. Building a life as one should always be your top priority (remember: it IS the reason behind the big party!), so enjoy romantic evenings together and try not to talk about the wedding. Focus on your relationship and your future beyond the wedding day.

Share how you reduce wedding stress?

Happy Planning,

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T08:53:00.001-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving from Divas and Weddings

Enjoy this great offer from our Friends Magnet Street Wedding

Happy Thanksgiving Sale!

25% off ALL Wedding Stationery from MagnetStreet Weddings

Save the Dates, Invitations, Reception items, Embellishments, Thank Yous,

Enter promo code WED25THANKS

Expires 11/30/11

Happy Planning,

Happy Thanksgiving Sale from MagnetStreet Weddings

2011-11-21T15:53:00.000-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving Sale!

25% off ALL Wedding Stationery from MagnetStreet Weddings

Save the Dates, Invitations, Reception items, Embellishments, Thank Yous,

Enter promo code WED25THANKS

Expires 11/30/11

Happy Planning,

Thirsty Thursday: Something Blue

2011-11-03T11:38:00.000-04:00

You know I had to do this one. Just because every Diva planning a wedding needs "Something Blue" so why not make it Sauza Tequila's new Sauza Blue

1.5 parts of Sauza Blue Silver Tequila
2 parts cranberry/ raspberry juice
8 mint leaves for garnish
1 part lemon-lime soda

Combine all ingredients except mint leaves in a pitcher. Serve each glass with 2 mint leaves. Serve cold or iced.

Image and Recipe courtesy of Drink of the Week

Happy Planning,

Win a $1000 wedding dress from Perfect Bridal

2011-11-01T10:00:00.016-04:00

Yes, you heard me, you can enter to win a $1000 dress from Perfect Bridal. Check out the details.

This fall, we're giving away a beautiful wedding gown in our How It All Began contest. During the month of November, our Facebook fans can submit a photo of themselves along with a brief essay about how they knew they had met "the one", and how it all began!

Through November 30th, the brides' friends and family will vote on their favorite submissions on Facebook to determine a pool of 10 finalists. The grand prize winner will then be selected by a panel of 5 judges from the pool of finalists.

The How It All Began grand prize winner will receive one designer bridal gown (valued up to $1,000) from www.perfectbridal.com. If the winner's favorite gown is more than $1,000, she can pay the difference and enjoy her dream dress on the big day.

We'll also have small prizes for some of the runners-up, and 1 raffle drawing for all participants.

Happy Planning,

Friday Finds: Bridal Hangers by Divine Wine

2011-10-28T11:49:00.000-04:00

I've seen this done in quite a few wedding shots and love this cute idea. They also make great bridal show presents as well as gifts for your bridesmaids. Check out these cute bridal hangers by Divine Wine .

Hanger for Mother of the Bride Mother of the Groom or Long Last Names

Personalized Hanger Custom Made for Wedding Dress 12 Wire Colors

And ironically I got a message on Twitter about a great contest they are having where you can win one free. But you have to hurry because it ends on Monday October 31st. Follow them on twitter for more information.

Happy Planning,

Thirsty Thursday: Bloodsucker

2011-10-27T12:38:00.000-04:00

I swear, I just love how this looks!!

1.5 oz Belvedere Pink Grapefruit
½ oz Campari
1.5 oz Tru Blood Beverage

Shake with ice and pour over cubed ice into a rocks glass. Top with 1.5 oz Tru
Blood Beverage and garnish with a blood orange wedge.

Courtesy of HBO and Belvedere Vodka

Drink of the Week

Happy Planning,

Blending Traditions in Weddings

2011-10-25T11:15:00.000-04:00

I was at a wedding this weekend of a really good friend and hubby and I had a blast. Everything was amazing!!! The food was out of this world.

But the thing that really took my breath away was the ceremony. It was a wonderful blending of all different traditions which was so great. They had a beautiful chuppah, that was fantastic. I also loved how the officiant made reference to twitter which was soooo cute because they meet during a tweet up at the same hotel that they got married in. This was such a personal moment and to have their wedding guest share in this was a true tribute to them. The last thing that I really LOVED was the incorporation of the whole bridal party in the ceremony, the whole bridal party read blessings that highlighted seven aspects of a meaningful life together. It was truly memorable!!

Let's be honest sometimes it feels like every single wedding you go to is exactly the same. But as a couple planning a wedding it's your job to make sure that you set your wedding apart from everyone else. You want your guest to walk away feeling like they had a totally different experience than any other wedding. One way to do this is to personalize your wedding to you and your fiance. No one says it HAS to be one way, it's your wedding, mix it up and have fun with it.

Happy Planning,

Try it on!!

2011-10-18T10:00:00.002-04:00

I know it seems like it makes sense but so often people don't think about this when looking for a wedding dress. I always tell people that you can't just look at it on a rack because truly you can't really see the dress until it's actually on you. It baffles me how brides will walk into a dress shop and look around on the racks and say "Nope, nothing here for me" but really they haven't even seen anything because they didn't even try anything on.

You HAVE to take the dress off the rack and try it on to see how it will hang on you and not the rack.

Happy Planning,

Motivational Monday: Slow down because Life is Short

2011-10-17T12:15:00.000-04:00

Some times life can get so hectic and crazy, especially in the bridal industry. It can seem like the only thing going on is your wedding. Yes, I know that those invitations have to get assembled or those favors have to get finished but sometimes we just need to slow down and enjoy life by realizing that life is so precious and can be taken away from us in a flash.

I was recently in a car accident and when i look at the pictures I can't believe that I actually survived. So this Monday I ask that everyone slow down and just realize that life is so precious and we need to take time to enjoy it because things can change in an instant.

Happy Planning,

Thirsty Thursday: Honey Deuce Cocktail

2011-10-13T10:00:00.000-04:00

I so love the honeydew melon balls!!!

Honey Deuce Cocktail by Grey Goose

1¼ part Grey Goose Original Vodka

2 parts fresh lemonade

¼ part Chambord

Honeydew melon balls

Fill a highball or double old-fashioned glass with crushed ice. Add Grey Goose Vodka and fill the rest of the cup with lemonade to a half inch below the rim. Drizzle Chambord over the top and garnish with honeydew melon balls on a skewer and serve!

Recipe and image courtesy of Drink of the Week

Motivational Monday: Being a Plus Size Bridesmaid

2011-10-10T09:00:00.001-04:00

Check out this great post from our sister site, Pretty Pear Bride

I am always trying to bring awareness about what plus size brides and bridesmaids often go through so I was super excited to share a wonderful article with fellow TWIPS (if you don't know who we are, definitely check us out!!), Something Old Something New. I am so appreciative to them for allowing me to help get the word out. Thanks Ladies!!

Check out my article about Being a Plus Size Bridesmaid

Happy Planning,

Thirsty Thursday: Midnight Rider

2011-10-06T13:00:00.001-04:00

In the spirit of Halloween this month, I'm going to feature all Halloween drinks during the month of October.

Midnight Rider

1 ½ oz. Botran Reserva
½ oz. Orange Curacao
1 oz. Orange Juice
1 oz. Soda
1 Fresh squeezed orange wedge

Add all the ingredients to a mixing glass. Add ice and shake. Strain into a tall glass

Garnish: Orange wedge

Recipe and Image courtesy of Drink of the Week

Happy Planning,

Get a free sample dress from ForHerandHim.com

2011-10-06T09:00:00.001-04:00

Yes, you read it right, you have a chance to get a free sample dress from "For Her and for Him".

This is a new online store that offers a wide selection of gorgeous (and reasonably priced) wedding, party and special occasion dresses, and a carefully selected range of unique accessories, wedding favors, gifts and many more exciting items. You can check them out at http://www.forherandforhim.com.

To celebrate their launch, they are giving away free sample dresses, as part of our ’48 hour challenge’, and their also handing out $50 coupons to those who spread the word of our store via Twitter, Facebook or Email – a giveaway not to be missed. Visit their site for more information on how you can snag this GREAT offer to bag a cheap dress for that special day, if you’re watching the pennies!

They also have THE cutest blog, so stop by and see what cool fashions and wedding inspiration they have for you. You can read their blog at http://www.forherandforhim.com/blog.

Happy Planning,

Thirsty Thursday: Fireside Martini

2011-09-29T10:00:00.001-04:00

This drink is such a great way to bring in the fall season. LOL

Fireside Martini

1 part vodka
1/4 part maraschino liqueur
1 part pomegranate liqueur
1/2 part triple sec
1/4 part sweet vermouth
3 dashes Angostura bitters

For garnish: 1 lemon wedge, 1 lemon spiral + rimming sugar

Rub the lemon wedge along the rim of a chilled cocktail glass and then rim the edge with sugar. Shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Strain into the glass and garnish with the spiral.

Happy Planning,

Wedding Theme Wednesday: Khloe and Lamar's 2 year anniversary

2011-09-28T22:57:00.000-04:00

Yes, Khloe and Lamar have been married for 2 years. OH, how time flies. A midst the remarks that they wouldn't make it, they have prevailed and are doing well. It really seems that Lamar and Khloe truly seem to love each other and really portray a realistic relationship. We see them having disagreements, having fun, joking around and sometimes being serious, which lets us know that they are human and go through the same things that regular newlyweds go through. Here's a picture of Khloe and Lamar at her sister Kim's wedding from Us Weekly, looking so in love.

What advice do you have newlyweds?

Happy Planning,

Monday Motivation: Family makes me Happy!!!

2011-09-26T22:04:00.000-04:00

So the past few weekends I have been super busy with tons of things going on, my husband even made the reference that I needed to stop cramming so many things into one span of time. But anyone in the wedding industry or planning a wedding knows that's just not possible.

But I always have such a nice time on the Sundays afterwards because that is my one day that I do things just with the family and it's GREAT! No matter how busy and crazy life gets "Family makes me happy"

Happy Planning,

Thirsty Thursday: Nectarine and Honey Cocktail

2011-09-22T23:24:00.001-04:00

I just love this drink. It gets me in the mood for the coming fall. And you can use any of your favorite fruits in it.

Nectarine and Honey

1 1/2 oz vodka
1 ounce honey syrup (half honey - half warm water)
1/2 ounce lemon juice
1/2 nectarine, sliced
Club soda

Muddle the nectarine slices in the honey syrup. Add the vodka and lemon juice and stir. Top with ice and club soda. Garnish with mint.

Recipe and Image courtesy of Drink of the Week

Happy Planning,

Tuesday Tip: Excitement is contagious

2011-09-20T11:08:00.001-04:00

I saw this as a fellow planners Tuesday Tip and I thought it fitting. Excitement is contagious so get excited and see what happens!!!

Happy Planning,
Shafonne

Monday Motivation: Doing things for me

2011-09-12T16:09:00.001-04:00

Things have been crazy in my life lately and the one thing that keeps me going is knowing that I'm always doing things for me. It is so easy to get sucked into doing things for everyone else but until you realize that you have to live your life for you, and no one else, then it's going to be a hard road.

Happy Planning,

Thirsty Thursday: Watermelon Cucumber Refresher

2011-09-08T10:00:00.000-04:00

Watermelon-Cucumber Refresher

3 parts vodka (I used 1 1/2 ounces) [Note: tequila makes a great recipe variation too]

1 part (1/2 ounce) triple sec

1 part (1/2 ounce) watermelon-cucumber-mint juice*

1 part (1/2 ounce) fresh lime juice

Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish with a watermelon and/or cucumber slice and/or a sprig of mint.

*Watermelon-Cucumber-Mint Juice
2 parts (I used 2 cups) diced, seeded watermelon flesh

1 part (1 cup) peeled, seeded cucumber

2 sprigs mint (10-12 leaves)

Whir all ingredients together in a blender. Strain through a fine-mesh strainer. Discard pulp.

Recipe and image courtesy of The Kitchn

Happy Planning,

Wedding Theme Wednesday: Chalkboards

2011-09-07T10:00:00.002-04:00

Chalkboards are becoming all the rage for weddings and events. They are so versatile, you can use them for candy bars and drink bars to display the different types of candy or drink selections.

You can use it as name tags or even leave messages for the happy couple on their get away car. Check out this cool pictures from our friends over on Truly Engaging

Make Create Do

Head over to Truly Engaging for more great ways to incorporate chalkboards into your big day.

Happy Planning,

Thirsty Thursday: Labor Day Lemonade

2011-09-01T21:27:00.000-04:00

This looks so good and its just in time for Labor Day.

1 1/4 ounces Ketel One Vodka
1/4 ounce Green Chartreuse
3/4 ounce Fresh Grapefruit Juice
3/4 ounce Fresh Lemon Juice
Dash of Grapefruit Bitters

Pour ingredients into a cocktail shaker. Shake well. Strain into a rocks glass.Garnish with an orange slice.

courtesy Ketel One Vodka

Recipe and Image courtesy of Drink of the Week

Happy Planning,

Say goodbye to summer with great Savings

2011-08-30T10:00:00.001-04:00

I'm so excited to share this great deal from my good friends over at Magnet Street Weddings. Say goodbye to summe with 20% off

Summer Blow Out Sale!

20% off ALL Wedding Stationery from MagnetStreet Weddings

Save the Dates, Invitations, Reception Items, Embellishments, Thank Yous…

Enter promo code WBLOG822

Starts 08/22/11 and Expires 09/5/11

Happy Planning,

Video speaks volumes

2011-08-25T10:00:00.006-04:00

So many people think a videographer is not necessary and that photos are enough. And unfortunately this is usually the first thing to get cut when buckling up on a budget. But I'm the first one to say that this is so not true. And I can speak from first hand knowledge. When my husband and I got married, we had a video shot by a friend whom was not a professional videographer, never again.

And I now tell couples that a wedding video speaks volumes. A video of your wedding can actually take you back to that special time and place, unlike photos you can see and hear all the sounds of your glorious day.

Of course there is a reason for me writing this post, I came across this amazing video on Style Me Pretty of a gorgeous wedding and the video was so breathtaking, I had to share. And you will be able to see from the video why a wedding video speaks volumes. ENJOY!!!

Lesley and Matt: Same Day Edit from Steve Zugelter on Vimeo.

This wonderful video was shot by Studio Z Films

What do you think?

Happy Planning

20% off at Magnet Street Weddings

2011-08-23T10:00:00.003-04:00

Honeymoon Planning Tips

2011-08-22T10:00:00.000-04:00

It's wedding season so you know what that means, it's honeymooning time. The honeymoon is the one time during the wedding planning process that the happy couple can truly sit back relax and just take in the scenery. All the wedding planning is done and the big day has come and gone.

The Knot has 3 come up with three great tips to make your honeymoon planning easy as 1, 2, 3

1. Use a Travel Agent: Travel agents are invaluable when compared to the amount of money that they can save with their unadvertised discounts and package deals that they can create. They can also be that peace of mind that engaged couples need during their wedding planning, knowing that their honeymoon plans are being taken care of.

2. Create a Money Plan: This is huge especially if you are going to different countries. Know if you need to carry extra cash if there won't be access to ATM's or banks but you don't want to have to much because of the liability of carrying cash. Don't forget that there may be ATM's present but they might charge a surchage.

3. Pack Like a Pro: Always remember to pack anything that is valuable, snacks, change of clothes and certain toiletry items on your carry-on so that you have access to these things at all times. Luggage does get lost and you would hate to be left with non of your essential items. Ensure that other people have a copy of your itinerary. Just in cause someone else needs it or if you lose it, you can contact that person.

Red Book Online

Happy Planning,

Lauren Conrad's Wedding Tips

2011-08-19T10:00:00.009-04:00

Lauren Conrad gives great wedding attire tips on Fabsugar. She will be giving monthly fashion and beauty tips to all their readers.

Check her out at a beach wedding with some of her friends.

Stylish as always.

Fab Sugar

This week she gives advice on decoding the different types of dress codes at weddings: formal, semi formal or casual. Her best piece of advice is to keep styles simple, nothing to edgy.

Check out Fab Sugar for more pictures and all the great details.

Happy Planning,

Thirsty Thursday: Plum Smash

2011-08-18T19:31:00.001-04:00

This looks amazing!!!

Plum Smash

1 1/2 ripe purple plums, the juicier the better
4 sprigs fresh thyme
1/2 oz fresh lemon juice
1/2 oz simple syrup
2 oz bourbon

Thoroughly muddle the plum, thyme and simple syrup until the plum is juicy and the thyme has released its oils. Pour in bourbon and lemon juice, then shake with ice. Strain into a glass over more ice. Garnish with a thyme sprig, if desired.

Recipe courtesy of Drink of the Week

Happy Planning,

Thirsty Thursday: Caliente Margarita

2011-08-11T10:00:00.000-04:00

This is hot definitely in a good way!!

Caliente Margarita
1.5 oz Avion Silver
1 oz Domaine de Canton ginger liqueur
3/4 oz lime juice
1/2 oz agave syrup
1 wheel red bell pepper, seeds removed

Gently press red bellpepper to release oils, build remaining ingredients in shaker, shake and strain in martini glass. Garnish with piece of red bellpepper.

Image and recipe courtesy of Drink of the Week

Happy Planning,

Wedding Theme Wednesday: Bridesmaid Twitter Party

2011-08-10T14:10:00.000-04:00

We are doing Real Theme Wednesday a little different today. I received an email this morning from Bridal Guide Magazine and I am so excited about their upcoming Bridesmaids Twitter Party that I had to share it.

Behind every beautiful BG bride is a supporting case of girlfriends, sisters, or relatives who painstakingly helped her plan all of the exquisite details of her wedding day. We're honoring all of the MOHs and 'maids out there who have endured days of trying on dress after dress, gluing and assembling DIY projects, and lending an empathetic ear to inevitable meltdowns, all so that the big day goes off without a hitch.

The BG editors have teamed up with wedding guru Sharon Naylor to host an exclusive live chat on Twitter, where you can get personalized advice about all of the major elements involved with being in the bridal party! So, please plan to spend your lunch hour with us on Thursday, August 11 at 2 pm EST, where we'll cover the 3 "B"s: bridesmaid dress shopping, throwing a bridal shower, and planning the bachelorette party.

Brides-to-be, chime in with your most pressing dilemmas and etiquette Q's—what to do if bridesmaids are clashing, how much should their dresses cost, and more—and we'll help you out! Best of all, you can enter to win prizes instantly! What we're giving away:

Clockwise from top left: 25 copies of Bridesmaids on DVD: From Knocked Up producer Judd Apatow and starring SNL breakouts Kristen Wiig and Maya Rudolph comes the hilarious comedy Bridesmaids! On Blu-ray/DVD September 20; Kelly M. necklace: This gorgeous handmade necklace, valued at $42, features Swarovski crystals on a gold chain; A signed copy of Sharon’s books (Bridesmaid on a Budget and The Smart Guide to Bachelorette Parties), your go-to guides for all of your bridal party questions; One-time-use cameras from Kodak: Perfect for capturing the memories at your wedding or any pre-wedding festivities; $50 gift card to Michaels Crafts: Use it to make shower supplies, bachelorette bash items and more!

Follow these easy steps to join the conversation:

1. Sign in to Tweetchat, where you will log in with your Twitter account or create one if you don't have a username yet.

2. At the top of the screen, type in "#bridesmaids" for the hashtag. On Twitter, the pound sign "#" (referred to as a hashtag) tags a specific topic and connects you with other people who are chatting about the same subject. Once you hit the "Go" button, you'll be able to see tweets from all of the other participants in the party.

3. Each tweet that you send from Tweetchat will automatically get the "#bridesmaids" hashtag added to the end of it. The chat room auto-updates, so get your texting thumbs ready—responses will show up quickly on the site, so keep your eyes peeled so you don't miss anything!

We will definitely be attending and are so excited for this great event. Hopefully we will get a chance to chat with you!!

All information and images courtesy of Bridal Guide Magazine.

Bridal Guide and BridalGuide.com provide the complete resource for engaged women, serving as the “How to for I Do,” giving brides the ideas and information they need to plan their wedding. The publication and web site work together to provide the most comprehensive wedding guide available, including up-to-the-minute advice and in-depth information.

See you on Thursday August 11th at 2pm EST!!!

Happy Planning,

Great songs for your first dance

2011-08-08T11:19:00.000-04:00

You and your husband's first dance is the first time that your family, friends and guests get to see you all together, other than walking down the aisle. So you want to make sure that the song you dance to has meaning behind it.

I always tell couples to pick a song that means something to the both of you, whether it is the song that was playing on your first date, a song from your first kiss, whatever but just have it be a song that means something. A lot of times, it can be a song that the words have meaning, maybe the words say EXACTLY how you feel about each other or symbolize something that both of you have gone through. No matter how you choose your song just ensure that the song is something that while you two are dancing with each other you can truly feel that this song has meaning.

Check out 20 great first dance songs courtesy of The Knot. They may seem familiar but they all have a little twist to them.

Here are a few of my favorites

Make you Feel my Love, Adele

Crazy Love by Micheal Buble

UB40, Can't help falling in love with you

Glee, Endless Love

Follow the link to see all of them.

Happy Planning,

Tuesday Tip: Keep Your Eye on the Prize

2011-08-02T10:00:00.000-04:00

I have learned this time and time again but it never really seems to make sense until I get what I was working towards. So rather its getting in shape, picking out the perfect wedding dress or just getting through the rough parts of wedding planning, just remember this saying "Keep you eye on the price" and hopefully you will get through it and get to that prize.

Happy Planning,

Outdoor Wedding Must Haves

2011-08-01T10:00:00.007-04:00

This weekend we went to a NASCAR race and it was sooo hot and it got me thinking of some outdoor wedding must haves to ensure that your outdoor wedding is a hit.
Bug spray
Water bottles
Umbrellas
Paper fans
Sunscreen

And don't forget that you can add a personal touch to any of these things with personalized labels.

Happy Planning,

Thirsty Thursday: 110 in the Shade

2011-07-28T11:16:00.000-04:00

So The Brickyard has come to Indianapolis and that means its go time for Nascar. So I decided to do a nascar theme for this week's Thirsty Thursday.

110 in the Shade is a combination of beer, the all time favorite drink for Nascar fans, and Tequila, another popular liquor of choice.

ENJOY and see you at the finish line.

Travelpod

Start with a shot glass of Tequila and fill a chilled pint glass 3/4 full ofBeer to go with it. Now you have a very important choice to make - down the shot and chase it with the beer or drop the shot into the beer and throw it back.

Fabulous Cocktail Recipes

Happy Planning,

Wedding Planner vs Wedding Coordinator

2011-07-26T13:27:00.000-04:00

I always get this question because brides and grooms don't know what the difference is so they don't know which one they need.

A wedding planner is just like it sounds someone who will actually plan your wedding for you. You can give input and suggestions but they will plan the wedding from start to finish for you.

A wedding coordinator, is also just like it sounds, someone who coordinates your wedding. You, as the couple, will do most of the planning on your own and the coordinator will step in when it gets closer to the wedding and help make sure that everything is coordinated and runs smoothly.

Question: Which is more expensive?

Yes, the wedding planner is more expensive because they are actually planning the wedding so they are spending more time working on the wedding. Where as the coordinator is only working the week or month of pulling it all together

Check out Making Your Event Special, they do both. They can be your full out wedding planner or just a coordinator to pull it all together for you.

As a special gift to you they are offering 50% off any package and a free 1 hour consultation. This includes our Silver Plus ($1500.00) and Silver Package ($800.00) Vist our website for package information

But you have to hurry this gift ends on Sunday July 31st 11:59pm.

Happy Planning,

Thirsty Thursday: Raspberry Lemon Drop

2011-07-21T10:31:00.001-04:00

This looks so refreshing!!

Photo courtesy of YumSugar

2 oz. Vodka
1/2 oz. Chambord Black Raspberry Liqueur
2 tsp. Lemon Juice
2 tsp. Sugar
Lemon Slice

Moisten the rim of a chilled cocktail glass with a little lemon juice and dip in 1/2 of the sugar to frost. Mix vodka and remaining lemon juice and sugar in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into the cocktail glass. Float the Chambord on top. Drop in a fresh rasberry or two to garnish.

Recipe courtesy of Drink of the Week

Happy Planning,

Wedding Wednesday: Diva Bridal Show, Indianapolis

2011-07-20T16:00:00.000-04:00

We are getting so excited for Indy Wedding Idea's Diva Bridal Show this Sunday July 24th 12pm-4pm. We will be at the show and can't wait to share some great tips and tricks.

This elite extravaganza is for the bride and groom who want to have the "wow" wedding but not the wow price tag! Come see how these wedding professionals can bring your vision to life and make your wedding day be the talk of the town! We are excited to present this show at a new wedding venue located at Sahm's Catering Atrium and Garden Venue, One American Square, Downtown Indianapolis.

FREE Diva Makeover Room Open Throughout the Show

for EVERYONE to participate in!

Brides tell us what you do to get ready for a bridal show and you could win 2 free tickets!!

(2 Winners will be picked randomly and will receive tickets at the show)

Happy Planning,

Vanessa Minnillo and Nick Lachey are Married

2011-07-18T11:20:00.000-04:00

Yes, Vanessa Minnillo and Nick Lachey have finally tied the knot and Vanessa looked wonderful in a Monique Lhuillier gown.

Us Weekly

Us Weekly

They wanted to keep the ceremony small with only family. It took place atop a cliff overlooking the ocean on Necker Island. Their nuptials will be featured on an upcoming TLC special.

Congrats Nick and Vanessa!!

What do you think about small family weddings?

Thirsty Thursday: Mojito

2011-07-14T15:50:00.002-04:00

Such a great and refreshing drink!!

1 1/2oz. Light Rum
1 oz. Lime Juice
1 tsp. Sugar
3-4 Mint Leaves
Club Soda

Combine lime juice, mint and sugar in a Collins or highball glass.
Stir gently to bruise the mint.

Fill glass 3/4 with ice.
Add the rum.

Top with soda. Stir well.

Recipe and image courtesy of Drink of the Week

Happy Planning,

Friday Finds: Wedding Guest Box

2011-07-08T10:00:00.001-04:00

It's time for our Friday Finds courtesy of Wedding Bliss Lane.

Wedding Guest Box - Damask Grey, White & Powder Blue Theme

Damask theme Wedding Guest Box !

A perfect size, the box is 6-1/2" x 4-3/8" and 2-7/8" height to display at your wedding and new home as a married couple. Each box is made from poplar wood, handpainted and sealed with a clear gloss varnish. The box is trimmed with a 1" grey satin ribbon and a decorative 1-1/4" white rhinestone brooch.

The wedding cards are individually personalized (the couple's name and date of the event) with beautiful blue and grey floral accents along two (2) corners of the cards along the 4" x 5-3/4" card and the other side provides guests to leave a special wedding wish. The cards enables the couple to read the loving well wishes, but also to address thank you cards. The dividers are grey and white damask pattern, 5" x 5-3/4" with decorative lettered tabs that includes smaller version of the floral accents from the wedding cards. Along with the box set is an Instruction card for the couples guests.

INCLUDED WITH THE GUEST BOOK BOX:
--- Personalization of your color scheme for the wedding to be interpereted within the box..
---12 dividers (constructed of a 110lb decorative cardstock and linen paper)
---180 address insert cards professionally cut & printed on 110 lb card stock
--- 1 decorative instruction card

For more information or to order visit Wedding Bliss Lane

All information and photos courtesy of Wedding Bliss Lane

Happy Planning,

Celebrate 4th of July with a "Bang"

2011-07-05T10:00:00.002-04:00

This so reminds me of the Firecracker popsicle that I used to get off the ice cream truck.

Happy 4th of July!!

Herradura Red, White and Blue by Mark Drew

Layer 1

½ oz Herradura Silver
½ oz Lime juice
½ oz Agave Syrup
4 Strawberries

Layer 2

1 oz Herradura Silver
½ oz Lime juice
½ oz Agave Syrup

Layer 3

½ oz Herradura Silver
½ oz Lime juice
½ oz Agave Syrup
12 Blueberries

Garnish with:
½ Strawberry
3 Blueberries

1. Combine each set of ingredients in advance as you’ll want to blend these quickly one after another
2. Blend the ingredients of layer 3 and place in the base of the glass.
3. Blend the ingredients of layer 2 and layer carefully over the first base.
4. Blend the ingredients of layer 1 and layer carefully
5. Garnish with half a strawberry and 3 blueberries

Recipe and Image courtesy of Drink of the Week

Happy Planning,

4th of July Savings from Magnet Street Weddings

2011-07-01T10:00:00.001-04:00

Just in time for the long holiday weekend, Magnet Street Weddings is offering this great 4th of July Savings.

20% off ALL Wedding Stationery from MagnetStreet Weddings

Now it ends on Monday, so get a jump on it and save big.

Celebrate the 4^th of July with huge savings!

20% off ALL Wedding Stationery from MagnetStreet Weddings

Save the Dates, Invitations, Reception Items, Embellishments, Thank Yous …

Enter promo code WEDHAPPY

Expires 7/5/11 and isn’t combinable.

Thanks Magnet Street Weddings!!!

Happy Planning,

Thirsty Thursday: Summer Chiller

2011-06-30T10:00:00.000-04:00

It is officially summer time so that means time to cool off so what better way than to combine ice cream and alchol!!

Summer Chiller

1 ounce Baileys Irish Cream
2 scoops Coffee Ice Cream
1 ounce Iced Coffee

Add Baileys, Coffee ice cream, and iced coffee to a blender. Add 1 cup of chipped iced and blend until smooth. Top with espresso, fresh whipped cream and mint leaf.

Drink of the Week

Weekly Find: Satin Ribbon Wedding Guest Book

2011-06-28T11:37:00.000-04:00

This week our weekly find is courtesy of no other than Wedding Bliss Lane.

Everyone is always looking for a unique way to personalize their wedding. Why not use these darling wedding guest books from Wedding Bliss Lane.

NEW---Schlossle---Satin Ribbon Wedding Guest Book

For more information please visit Wedding Bliss Lane

Happy Planning,

Thirsty Thursday: Summer Soiree

2011-06-23T10:00:00.002-04:00

This is the perfect drink to kick off the summer!!

1 1/2 ounces Zacapa 23 Rum
1/2 ounce ginger liqueur
4 dashes orange bitters
2 ounces orange-guava juice

Combine Zacapa 23 Rum, ginger liqueur, orange bitters, and orange-guava juice into a cocktail shaker and fill with ice.
Cover and shake until thoroughly chilled.
Strain into a rocks glass.

Recipe and Image courtesy of Drink of the Week

Happy Planning,

Tuesday Tip: "It is what it Is"

2011-06-21T11:47:00.000-04:00

I meet tons of brides that get discouraged once they realize that something is not going the way they want or isn't going to work out the exact way they want it. I tell them, "It is what it is". I know it's hard to grasp or understand why something happens the way it does but the sooner that you can realize this and move on then you can be on to the next thing that needs to be dealt with.

I feel so bad for people that waste time concentrating on something that they can't change or alter and the time that they were wasting on that, they ended up lossing out on the next thing, so just tell yourself "It is what it is" and keep it moving.

Happy Planning,

Thirsty Thursday: Grapefruit-Rosemary Mojito

2011-06-16T10:00:00.001-04:00

Grapefruit-Rosemary Mojito

1 1/2 oz white rum
1 oz simple syrup (or fruit-flavored syrup!)
1 oz fresh red grapefruit juice + several slices
2 sprigs fresh rosemary

In a Collins glass, muddle the simple syrup, juice and rosemary. Add rum and then fill the glass with ice. Top off with club soda. Put grapefruit slices in the glass.

Make this cocktails and learn how to create more like with our book DIY Cocktails. 10 Ratios, Thousands of Drinks!

Wedding Theme Wednesday: Rain, Rain Go Away

2011-06-15T13:34:00.000-04:00

This was a post that I originally did for my Wedding Wednesday post last month over on Fashion Wrap Up (definitely check them out, they have become my new fashion home here in Indy) but I thought it would be so fitting for today, since I woke up to rain and storms this morning.

It has been so dreary out so it got me to thinking about fun and stylish ways to deal with rain on your big day.

wedding in rainy day by ღTITAღ featuring silk wedding gowns

Alberta Ferretti silk wedding gown
$7,385 - net-a-porter.com

Chooka rubber boot
$65 - nordstrom.com

Amazon.com: Dream (with flowers) 10" H x 32" W Vinyl Lettering Family...
$12 - amazon.com

Rainy Day Wedding Fashion: Rain Boots, Part 1 | WedShare * Daily
daily.wedshare.com

Send Cut Flower Bouquet Simplicity Australia
flowers-online.com.au

Anniversary by holldolly featuring corset gowns

J Crew corset gown
$425 - jcrew.com

Sperry wellies boot
$68 - nordstrom.com

Gold jewelry
$1,995 - myjewelrybox.com

Pearl jewelry
$325 - tiffany.com

Cultured pearl jewelry
$975 - tiffany.com

Burberry umbrella
295 GBP - net-a-porter.com

Mens | Suits | Jaeger
jaeger.co.uk

Goldsmiths Grooms platinum 5mm court wedding ring
1,399 GBP - houseoffraser.co.uk

Amazon.com: Paper Doilies: 6" White Heart 18/Pkg: Kitchen & Dining
$1.68 - amazon.com

Floreo Multi Plastic Hydrangea
8 GBP - habitat.co.uk

flower and feather hairclip
21 GBP - janenorman.co.uk

Or try these out for all your bridesmaids. They are Hunter Rain Boots and are $125.00.

Photo courtesy of Heather Parker Photography

Happy Planning,

Weekly Find: Mori Pearl Earrings

2011-06-13T10:00:00.002-04:00

This week we have a pair of Mori Pearl Earrings courtesy of Wedding Bliss Lane

Mori Pearl Earrings - Keishi Pearls, Pink Opal, White Topaz

oOo Mori Pearl Earrings oOo The Mori Pearl Earrings feature two gorgeous potato shaped pale pink pearls, topped with matching petal pink gemstones. Matching Keishi pearls have been wire wrapped among genuine Pink Opals, White Topaz, and tiny pink accent pearls. The earrings have been left in bright Sterling Silver and hang from custom ear wires. Materials: o Pink Potato Pearls o Pink Keishi Pearls o Pink Opal o White Topaz o Bright Sterling Silver o Just over 1 1/4in long

For more information or to purchase these wonderful earrings, visit

Wedding Bliss Lane

Happy Planning,

Interview with Erica from Season 8 of Bridezilla

2011-06-09T16:16:00.003-04:00

In lieu of Bridezillas airing its new season this Sunday, June 12th at 9pm on WE Tv, I was able to catch up with yet another Bridezilla from the upcoming Season 8, Erica. Now I must say Erica definitely lived up to her Bridezilla name.

Here's her story.

Bridezilla Erica has big dreams for her New Orleans-themed wedding. But Erica also has big attitude! She screams at her fiance over the music, cries at her rehearsal, and refuses to pay the church. She has a crazy bachelorette party which she definitely had a great time at.

On the wedding day, no one is safe from Erica's wrath! Erica screams at her sister, cries over missing shoes, and gets into a huge fight with her mother right before she walks down the aisle. Then, the wedding turns into a comedy of errors with a fallen tiara and missing car keys nearly ruining the entire day!

Divas and Weddings: You and your fiancé had quite a volatile fight about the song list, were you really that mad about him not letting you know what songs he picked out?

Erica: I was upset because he wasn't going to tell me. Wil loves music and really appreciates it but I was just mad because he wouldn't tell me about it. On TV it looks more than what it really was. Wil is not a yeller so he just keeps talking and that makes me madder.

Divas and Weddings: And were you surprised when you found out what he was trying to do?

Erica: Yes, I was surprised, it was just that he didn't tell me about it that's why I was mad. He ended up not doing it because of something with the musician.

Divas and Weddings: Your Bachelorette party was crazy; strippers, dancers, getting picked up, did you expect all the craziness? And did your fiancé every find out all that went on?

Erica: I told my cousin and maid of honor what I wanted so they kew what I wanted but it was completely a surprise to be picked up by the old guy. I wanted the cute fine one but got the old guy and was not ready for it at all. I got so drunk, and I wasn't expecting to get that drunk, hence me falling asleep,  probably the cheap bottle of champagne. Will, did find out about the party he saw the pictures from little cousins phone. He had his bachelor party in Atlanta so I'm sure he had fun.

Divas and Weddings: You seemed to have tons of problems with your family, the fight with your mother before the wedding, the fight with your sister about not helping decorate. How is your relationship with them now and do you regret any of it?

Erica: Everything is good, we are going to fight and argue, we all have very strong personalities. There is nothing malicious about our fights at the end of the day we are OK. We all love each other we know family is first. We say what we want but will do anything for each other. All families argue at the end of the day. No I don’t reqret doing anything with my little sister. She can’t take it when I fight back with her but when she gets mad she goes hard and then she's done.  The situation about me throwing her book in the trash was that she was on the phone laughing and giggling but when I asked her to help me with decorating she had homework to do and didnt' have time.

Divas and Weddings: During the wedding there were a few mishaps, the miniature bride's shoes being misplaced, your tiara falling off. How did it make you feel when all these things were going on? Were you embarrassed, upset or just didn’t care.

Erica: I was definitely mad about the shoes, the mini bride's mom gave everything to me, shoes attached to the dress and no one knew where they were. I was wondering how do they just disappear in thin air. Where did they go? The shoes ended up dropping in the van but my uncle said they weren't there. I was mad, she can’t walk down with nothing. The tiara was funny afterwards because of the deal with my mom not liking it and then for it fall off during the wedding. My dad did it because he stepped on my veil which made it fall off and not get put back on right so I got mad. Will was like don’t worry about it’s our day.

Divas and Weddings: What advice can you give to brides planning their wedding to avoid becoming a bridezilla?

Erica: At the end of the day stand firm on what you want and believe for your day, your time and effort put into planning it so make it your day. Don’t let anyone push you around, its your day and you get what you want. My favorite saying "No body matters but you, your groom and the preacher, everyone else is an accessory."

Yes, Yes, Yes, his season is going to be crazzzzzzy!! And I can't wait to watch.

Tune in June 12th, 2011 at 9pm on We TV. You can also follow Bridezillas on twitter and follow the conversation with #bridezilla.

Check out a clip of Erica in action

See you there!!

Happy Planning,

Thirsty Thursday: Fancy Bourbon Punch

2011-06-09T10:00:00.000-04:00

1 liter Maker's Mark
1 cup granulated sugar
Peels of 3 lemons and 1 orange
Juice of peeled fruit
1 liter of strong tea (preferably green tea)
250 ml champagne (club soda can be used for a less fancy version)
Freshly grated nutmeg

1. Combine sugar and citrus peels in the bottom of a punch bowl. Muddle together until sugar starts to clump together. Let sit for about 2 hours, (while not necessary, this does add a little complexity).2. Brew the tea for about 30 minutes, remove loose tea or tea bags, and allow to cool.
3. Add the juice of the peeled fruit, tea, and Bourbon. Stir.
4. Top with Champagne just before serving and stir gently. Top with freshly grated nutmeg and serve.

Recipe by Matt Wallace, Mixologist, Seven Grand (Los Angeles, CA)

Image and recipe courtesy of Drink of the Week

Happy Planning,

Interview with Krystal from Season 8 of Bridezilla

2011-06-09T07:00:00.009-04:00

In lieu of Bridezilla airing its new season this Sunday, June 12th at 9pm on WE Tv, I was able to catch up with Krystal one of the brides from this upcoming season..

Here's her story:

Bridezilla Krystal and her fiance don't see eye to eye on much of anything for the wedding. Krystal has also had a few issues with her bridesmaids, and needs to find some new ones, and fast! At the bachelorette party, Krystal auditions a few hopefuls, but not everyone is willing to do what Krystal asks. Later in the evening, Krystal reunites with a childhood friend--and former flame--but when he calls her out for being a Bridezilla, Krystal douses him with her drink!

Divas and Weddings: I know in this episode you are looking for bridesmaids and you initiate them during your Bachelorette party, did you end getting all the spots filled?

Krystal: Yes, I started out with 5 bridesmaids and ended up with 5 bridesmaids. At the end of the show I needed 2 more and some of my friends were able to come through for me. It was down to the week of the wedding and all the dresses were ordered so we were pretty much matching the dresses up with each bridesmaids by who could fit what. But in the end it all worked out.

Divas and Weddings: During the episode you have a fight with a childhood friend at your Bachelorette party are you still friends with him now and did he come to the wedding?

Krystal: We have been friends since we were like 13 or 14 years old and I love him dearly, he's a great friend but he hasn't been there for me when I need him. Our schedules didn't mesh together so we just grew apart. It seemed like I had taken a back seat to his life and when we saw each other at the club, the cameras were there and I just let him have it. He did end up coming to the wedding. We didn't really talk but he did leave a nice message in my guest book.

Diva and Weddings: It seemed like you and your fiancée didn't really agree on anything about the wedding, how is that affecting everything now and how did it affect your wedding?

Krystal: We both really decided to just compromise and it worked out for the best. He wanted a really private wedding with just family and close friends but I didn't want to offend anyone by not inviting them so we decided to open it up and it was great. We also argued about whether we wanted a band or a DJ and we ended up going with the band and our guests loved it. All in all the fighting wasn't worth it and it all turned out well in the end. I felt like we were fighting for nothing. It's just hard to let go sometimes. I got my way and he did to. It worked out perfectly.

Divas and Weddings: What advice do you give for any other brides to be and potential Bridezillas

Krystal: Do your research, don't just do what everyone else does just because they think it is right. Be different. Do what's important for you!!! I didn't want flowers so I decided to do something completely different but that was because that was what I wanted to do. A wedding is all about a woman and her memories of the wedding. It 's your day, you are going to cherish the photos, the music, etc. because you put your energy and effort into making sure it's what you want to do.

Make sure and tune into Bridezilla's Season Premiere on June 12 at 9pm on WE TV to find out all about Krystal, her Bachelorette party, bridesmaids, her fight with a childhood friend and what happens with her and fiancée.

You can also follow Bridezillas on twitter and follow the conversation with #bridezilla.

Here is a sneak peak video of her.

See you there!!

Happy Planning,

Enter to Win a Designer Bridal Gown from Perfect Bridal

2011-06-07T13:08:00.002-04:00

I'm so excited to share this information about this great contest by Perfect Bridal. Here are all the details.

Perfect Bridal’s 2011 $1,000 Wedding Dress Giveaway

The grand prize is any designer bridal gown (valued up to $1,000) from the Anjolique or Casablanca Bridal collections at Perfect Bridal. If the winner's favorite gown is more than $1,000, she can pay the difference and still enjoy her dream dress on the big day.

These are just a few of the ones you could win

Facebook fans can submit an entry and vote on the nominees. The entry with the most votes as of June 30 will win the $1,000 dress from Perfect Bridal.

Contest starts May 31, 2011 and ends June 30, 2011

It only takes 4 simple steps to win:

1. Become a fan of Perfect Bridal on Facebook

2. Click the "photo contest" link in the left margin and then the tab “Submit an entry.”

3. Upload a photo of yourself and use the photo caption to tell us why you should win.

4. Ask your friends, family and loved ones to stop by and vote you to #1!

Good Luck!!!

Happy Planning,

Weekly Find: Rhinestone shoe stickers (For Grooms)

2011-06-06T10:00:00.003-04:00

Last weeks weekly find were Rhinestone shoe stickers for Brides. This week I decided to do the ones for the Groom all courtesy of

Wedding Bliss Lane

Grooms "Help Me!" Rhinestone Shoe Stickers

If you already have your "I Do" stickers for your wedding day shoes, don't forget your Groom!
Arrange the best man or one of your groomsmen to sneak one of these Baby Blue "HELP ME ! " Rhinestone Sticker Appliques to your soon-to-be husbands shoes and watch everyone get a giggle while he's kneeling down at the Alter!

********* The Grooms "HELP ME" Rhinestone sticker will be Baby Blue as shown in the picture *****************

All shoe rhinestone appliques come bagged with a cute personalized application instruction card {personalized by moi} and a lovely little keepsake card with my one of my famous shoe stamped.

This sticker will fit perfectly at the arches of your grooms shoes! They are made with premium rhinestones {not crystals} and acrylic glue, application is easy and non-damaging to your shoes.

All images are courtesy of © Rebecca Whitney Photography 2011

For more information or to purchase this item visit Wedding Bliss Lane

Happy Planning,

Enter to Win a Designer Bridal Gown

2011-06-03T15:08:00.000-04:00

I'm so excited to share this information about this great contest by Perfect Bridal. Here are all the details.

Perfect Bridal’s 2011 $1,000 Wedding Dress Giveaway

These are just a few of the ones you could win

Facebook fans can submit an entry and vote on the nominees. The entry with the most votes as of June 30 will win the $1,000 dress from Perfect Bridal.

Contest starts May 31, 2011 and ends June 30, 2011

It only takes 4 simple steps to win:

1. Become a fan of Perfect Bridal on Facebook

2. Click the "photo contest" link in the left margin and then the tab “Submit an entry.”

3. Upload a photo of yourself and use the photo caption to tell us why you should win.

4. Ask your friends, family and loved ones to stop by and vote you to #1!

Good Luck!!!

Happy Planning,

Thirsty Thursday: Tequila Tangerine Dream

2011-06-02T10:00:00.000-04:00

Tequila Tangerine Dream

1 tangerine (1/2 for juice and 1/2 for tangerine slices)
2 sprigs fresh lavender
1 oz. simple syrup
2 oz. silver tequila
crushed ice
club soda

Peel the tangerine. Juice half of it and set the juice aside. Remove pith from the other half and cut into small pieces. Put tangerine at the bottom of a tall glass, then add the syrup, juice and some lavender petals. Muddle this mixture. Pour in tequila. Pack crushed ice on top of this and then top off with club soda. Garnish with lavender or tangerine twists. (It's prettier to leave the lavender petals in, but if you would be bothered by some getting in your mouth, strain them out)

Image and recipe courtesy of Drinkoftheweek.com

Happy Planning,

Weekly Find: Rhinestone shoe stickers

2011-05-31T10:40:00.000-04:00

Hope everyone had a great Memorial Day and weekend. It's time for another great weekly find courtesy of

Something Blue "I Do" Rhinestone Shoe Stickers

Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue, and a Sixpence in your Shoe ...

Mon Amour Boutique has you covered for two out of five wedding day traditions by offering that perfect little "Something Blue" just for your wedding day shoes!

Capture your shoes in all their glory with this cute little detail! These make the perfect photo op that your photographer will love capturing.

Not only will you be fulfilling one of your wedding day traditional items, you will be sure to love your shoes all that much more with this addition and keepsake card!

ach applique comes bagged with a cute personalized application instruction card {personalized by moi} and a lovely little keepsake card with my one of my famous shoe stamped.

These stickers will fit perfectly under each arch of your shoe! They are made with premium rhinestones {not crystals} and acrylic glue, application is easy and non-damaging to your shoes.

For more information about this product or to order please visit Wedding Bliss Lane

Images are courtesy of Rebecca Whitney Photography 2011

Happy Planning,

Sneak Peek at We TV's New Season of Bridezilla

2011-05-27T09:00:00.004-04:00

I was honored when I was asked to preview the first episode of the upcoming season of We TV's Bridezilla that comes out June 12th.

Especially since I have had my run in with bridezillas while planning weddings. But I must say if this episode is any indication of this season then we all need to hold on to our hats because we are in for a crazy ride!!

We start off with two brides, Erika and Krystal.

Bridezilla Krystal and her fiance don't see eye to eye on much of anything for the wedding. Krystal has also had a few issues with her bridesmaids, and needs to find some new ones, and fast! At the bachelorette party, Krystal auditions a few hopefuls, but not everyone is willing to do what Krystal asks. Later in the evening, Krystal reunites with a childhood friend--and former flame--but when he calls her out for being a Bridezilla, Krystal douses him with her drink!

This season is going to be crazy!! And I can't wait to watch.

Tune in June 12th, 2011 at 9pm on We TV. You can also follow Bridezillas on twitter and follow the conversation with #bridezilla.

See you there!!

Happy Planning,

Thirsty Thursday: Black Rose

2011-05-26T10:00:00.000-04:00

I am in love with this drink because of the color and because blackberries are to die for.

Black Rose

2 parts vodka
1 part blackberry-rosemary soda water*

Pour vodka over ice in a highball glass. Then add soda and stir.

*Blackberry-Rosemary Soda Water

1 part club soda
1 part blackberry-rosemary syrup

You make the blackberry-rosemary soda water by combining syrup and club soda. To make the syrup: Bring 3/4 cup blackberries, one-quarter cup rosemary, one cup sugar and one cup water to a boil. Then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let steep for 10 minutes. Strain out the solids and keep the syrup in the refrigerator in a sealed glass container. To make the soda water for cocktail use, combine the syrup and club soda. You can adjust the amount of syrup to suit your taste.

Photo by Jackson Stakeman

Recipe and Image courtesy of Drink of the Week

Happy Planning,

Wedding Wednesday: Outdoor Weddings

2011-05-25T10:00:00.000-04:00

So why not keep the outdoor wedding theme going with a great outdoor wedding inspiration board. For tips on having an outdoor wedding check out yesterday's post.

How to have a great outdoor wedding

2011-05-24T10:00:00.007-04:00

This weekend marks the official start to summer, Memorial Day Weekend. This is the iconic weekend that kicks the whole summer off. So in preparation for this weekend and the many upcoming summer weddings, I wanted to go over some great tips for having an outdoor wedding.

1. Make your guests comfortable Think about what the weather will likely be at the time of day and month of the year of your outdoor wedding. Sunny and hot? Don't leave your guests uncomfortably melting – have your ushers give guests ice-cold bottles of water as they are seated. Consider printing your wedding program on a fan so that guests may cool themselves. Don't forget to have plenty of sunscreen on hand as well. For a very warm location, look into renting large electric fans (don't forget a generator) and/or a tent to shade the suns rays. If it will be cold and damp, make sure you tell guests that so they can wear extra layers. A simple xeroxed insert will do. You might want to have lap blankets on hand, or rent portable heaters.

2. Have a backup plan What will you do if it rains? The ideal outdoor wedding location has an indoor location waiting just in case. Many brides and grooms opt to have their ceremony outside and reception inside. In a pinch, the tables can be scooted to the back of the room during the ceremony. A tent is another option, but only for light to moderate rain storms. A heavy rain will soak the ground underneath, leaving guests with soggy and muddy shoes. Make sure any tent you rent is sturdy so it won't flip over, and that it has thick and weighted sides.

3. Plan for Wind Many outdoor weddings suffer from windy conditions. Avoid light fabrics like chiffons and china silks in your dress and the bridesmaid dresses. Tell your hairstylist that you'll be having an outdoor wedding so she/he can plan a style that won't leave you looking like Cousin It! Men in the wedding party should use pomade or other styling product. Again, tell your guests in a printed insert so that they can plan accordingly. And of course, make sure your tent will stand up to gusting winds or find an indoor backup plan.

4. Can everybody hear? When you picture your dream wedding at the beach, you're probably not hearing the roaring of the waves, the rushing wind, or the local kids running and screaming around you. Look into renting a sound system with clip mikes for the bride, groom and officiant. Your DJ or band may be able to easily arrange this for you.

5. Decorations One of the bonuses of an outdoor wedding is the natural beauty around you, lessening your need to decorate. But you still need to do some work. Visit the site a week before your wedding to make sure the grass is mown, the ground raked, and the flowers have bloomed. If your wedding is at a public park, you may want to ask the groomsmen or friends to do this the morning of your ceremony. If it's been an especially cold season, you may need to supplement the flowers with some potted bulbs from a florist. Other decorations you may want to consider include an arch or trellis to focus the ceremony and frame the bride and groom as they say their vows; strings of lights or lanterns in the trees; luminarias; torches; or farolitas.

6. Make things tasty outside Does your caterer have experience planning an outdoor wedding menu? Make sure they're planning things that will keep well outdoors in the heat. Avoid things like mayonnaise salads or dishes which must be served cold.

7. Don't leave your guests parched Since alcohol is dehydrating, consider serving a variety of lemonades, teas and punches. Be sure to have plenty of ice and water around as well. For a fancy cocktail, why not serve a classic mint julep or a mojito? The mint will refresh and cool your guests.

8. Those pesky flying things Be sure to put out citronella candles or a bug zapper so that your guests won't spend the whole ceremony swatting at the air.

9. Here comes the sun Consider timing your outdoor wedding for sunset where your guests will see you take your vows surrounded by the warm glow of the sun. Those having a daytime outdoor wedding should orient the ceremony so that the sun will be on guests' backs rather than in their eyes.

10. Permits Don't forget to contact your city parks department or other local government to get a permit for an outdoor wedding. Be sure to ask about rules concerning trash removal, candle or torch lighting, and pre-wedding photography.

Information courtesy of About.com

Image courtesy of David Abel Photography

Share your advice for an outdoor wedding?

Happy Planning,

Crystal Bouquet Handle

2011-05-23T10:00:00.002-04:00

This week's find by Wedding Bliss Lane is a Crystal Bouquet Handle. It is exquisite!!

Swarovski Crystal Bouquet Handle With Custom Initial - Beautiful Gift For A Bride

Gorgeous Handmade Crystal Bridal Bouquet Handles

*´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) Do you want to stand out on your wedding day? *´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨)

¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) Do you want other brides to envy you? ¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)

¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨) It's your day to be "over the top" FABULOUS!! *´¨) ¸.•´¸.•*´¨)

A beautiful custom Swarovski Crystal bridal bouquet handle. Absolutely STUNNING!
Swarovski crystals are ultra sparkly and are the TOP OF THE LINE and MOST SPARKLY!

* Features over 1,000 hand placed crystals. Crystal Clear background

* A Single letter initial in the color of your choice - MEDIUM TO DARK COLORS WORK BEST. CONVO ME IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS.

* 7-8 inches tall - rigid bouqet handle.

* 2” diameter – Approximate size of an average hand
gathered bridal bouquet.

* End enclosed in crystals unless specified at checkout
that you want it open.

* Simple to attach and comes with complete instructions.

* 70 crystal colors to choose from – see color chart
(let me know your choice for your initial color at checkout).

* Comes in a beautiful organza keepsake bag.

* Expertly wrapped to ensure safe delivery.

Visit Wedding Bliss Lane for more information and to get this ordered for your special day.

Happy Planning,

Thirsty Thursday: Blackberry Champagne Cocktail

2011-05-19T10:00:00.000-04:00

Blackberry Champagne Cocktail

3/4 oz. blackberry simple syrup (recipe below)
1-1.5 oz. gin (depending on how strong Mom likes her drinks)
Sparkling wine
Fresh blackberries for garnish

Put two blackberries in a champagne flute. Pour in blackberry simple syrup and gin, then carefully top off with sparkling wine.

Blackberry Simple Syrup

1 cup water
1 cup sugar
1 basket of blackberries

Bring all ingredients to a boil. Strain into a container, pressing the blackberries to push juice through the stainer.

Image and Recipe courtesy of Drink of the Week

Happy Planning,

Friday Finds: Birdhouse Wedding Card Holder

2011-05-16T10:50:00.000-04:00

Yes, Yes, I know its Monday and not Friday but since there was so much trouble with Blogger on Friday I waited until today to post this.

We have another Friday Find from our good friends over at Wedding Bliss Lane, just in time for a spring/summer wedding.

Wedding Reception Card Holder Birdhouse Box Tan Brown
Wedding card holder box bird house for the reception gift table centerpiece. Handcrafted quality workmanship and ready to ship within three weeks or sooner. Personalize this beautiful wedding card holder by selecting your paint colors. The sign above the door can be personalized with names and dates up to three lines.

Check out Wedding Bliss Lane for more information and details about purchasing this item.

Happy Planning,

Wedding Theme Wednesday: Wedding Locations

2011-05-11T13:01:00.000-04:00

Yesterday we talked about "How to decide on you wedding location". So today I decided to make the Wedding Theme Wednesday with an inspiration board of some amazing wedding locations.

Check them out.

AMAZING!!

Which one do you like?

Happy Planning,

OH where, OH where will my wedding be?

2011-05-10T10:29:00.000-04:00

So we have decided on a wedding date and time. We now need to decide on the site. There are numerous options available out there for every budget.

Do you want to be outside or inside? By the ocean, or the mountains, in a hotel or a private club. There is so much to choose from. The main thing to consider is what you and your fiance want. What type of feel are you'll going for. Do you want a nice beach theme with the ocean waves crashing in the background? Or the mountains rolling behind you with a picturesque view or a nice hotel or private club with a grand hall.

The main thing that I tell my couples are to make sure that whatever you choose is what "YOU" want. It doesn't matter about money or how much something cost because any of the above themes can be achieved on any budget. You can have a wedding at a nice hotel, private club, on the beach or mountains and fit into anyones budget. It is all about how you go about doing it and what is important to you. If you really want a nice reception site then you might not be able to pay as much for the food or music. It is all about what is important to "YOU".

The reception site is the most important aspect of your wedding because this is where people will be spending the most time with you and enjoying all the festivities of your special day. So make sure that it is somewhere that speaks volumes about you and your fiance. A place that people walk into and say "Yes, this is exactly where I imagined ______ and ________ to get married."

Just remember "It is YOUR wedding and make sure that YOU enjoy it in a place that YOU have decided on.

Happy Planning,

Friday Finds: Ivory Fascinator

2011-05-06T18:16:00.000-04:00

I know you feel overloaded with stuff from the Royal Wedding but I so do love Fascinators. Here is a great one from our friends over at Wedding Bliss Lane.

And it's only $21, you can't beat that. Check it out

Wedding Bliss Lane is a marketplace where you can buy and sell everything for a wedding.

Thirsty Thursday: The Legendary Lady

2011-05-05T10:00:00.000-04:00

What a great drink to honor the legendary lady in your life, "Your mother" or any mother figure that has played a memorable part in your life.

The Legendary Lady

1 1/2 ounces Godiva Chocolate Raspberry Infused Vodka
3 ounces iced tea
3 to 4 lemon wedges for garnish

Combine Godiva Chocolate Raspberry Infused Vodka and iced tea in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a highball glass over ice. Garnish with lemon wedges.

courtesy Godiva Chocolate Liqueur

Recipe and Image courtesy of Drinkoftheweek.com

Happy Planning,

Wedding Theme Wednesday: Mother Daughter Moments

2011-05-04T12:46:00.001-04:00

Since this coming Sunday is Mother's Day, what better way to celebrate Wedding Theme Wednesday then with an inspiration board of Mother Daughter Moments. Of course the inspiration board came from my favorite place, Style Me Pretty.

Your mother is the person who has probably gotten you through good and bad times. Through boyfriends, fiance, wedding planning (yeah, that was a dozee) she was always there for you. So this weekend let's thank all the mothers out there for just being there.

What are you doing for or with your mother this weekend?

Happy Planning,

Matching Food with Time of Wedding

2011-05-03T11:18:00.000-04:00

Let's start our vendor selection with the one component of your wedding that is the most important, THE FOOD, everyone will say "how good" or "how bad" the food is at a wedding.

The main thing to keep in mind is the time of day, which then ties in with the amount and types of food. We have already talked about the time of day for weddings. Once this is decided and you get to the point in planning when food is an issue. You want to remember that the earlier the wedding the less amount of food.

If you are having an 11am wedding you don't need to have steaks and pototaes. Since you are doing an earlier wedding you don't need to have really heavy food maybe a mix between breakfast and lunch food. A nice brunch menu, waffle or omelet bar, and maybe a pasta bar. Nothing really heavy is the main thing. So you want to make sure that you get a caterer that specialized in breakfast and brunch food. A 2pm or 3pm wedding would not have the breakfast component but still have a lighter feel to the reception. Fruit and cheese, chicken fingers, salad/pasta bar. You want to stick to a light lunch menu.

If you do anything that is later than 5pm you want to consider this as a heavy food menu. This time for a wedding is right around dinner time so this is the reason for the increased food supply. You want to include steaks and potatoes and heavier food. Something a little more heartier.

You want to always make sure that the caterer you pick allows you to sample their food. You want to be able to see how their food tastes without the wedding being the first time. You also want to make sure that when they cater, they make sure that the area is kept clean and it looks presentable. There is nothing worst than being at a wedding or event and the food area is not kept clean.

Final note: if you get a good feeling about a caterer that is usually a good sign. If not then you know not to go with that company.

Happy Planning,

We now offer Baby Planning Services.

2011-05-02T10:18:00.000-04:00

We are pleased to announce that we have expanded our services to include baby planning services. We are the only Baby Planners operating in Virginia and Indiana.

What is a baby planner?

Baby Planners are being heralded as the new go to service for expecting parents. They do it all. Think: what a wedding planner does for a wedding a baby planner will do for the coming of your baby. So anything from building your registry to creating an amazing baby shower to helping to design an amazing nursery. And that's just the basics.

Why would someone need a Baby Planner?

There are many reasons you might need to hire a baby planner. Here are a few:

a) More women are working 50+ hrs a week, coming home at 6pm or 7pm at night and feeling exhausted.

b) More women are having multiples and just don't have the time to do all that is needed during their pregnancy and afterwards.

c) Many women are on their 2nd or 3rd child which in and of itself is overwhelming.

d) More families are moving around so we're not living near our parents/sisters/friends.

It's so hard to do a lot of the necessary things without that great family support.

e) And someone may simply want to spoil you a little! This would be the best time to do it.

How does a Baby Planner work?

The first thing we do is come to your home, chat and find out what we can do to help. The initial consultation is always free. From this meeting, we create a customized list of services that you we can help you with.

Please visit our site for more information about our services, packages and questions that you still might have or to schedule your free consultation (in person or virtually)

Happy Planning,