What a memorable first dance!

I was actually on YouTube looking for something else and I came across this video and I LOVE IT! I'm often asked what is proper etiquette in this situation or that situation, but sometimes proper etiquette doesn't match a couple's personality! It's your wedding, do it your way!

Let's just say these are very interesting cake toppers!

I stumbled across this very funny blog called Godawful Wedding Crap and the author blogs about some very interesting items that are truly for sale. I couldn't believe it. So, there must be people who want to buy these things. If you are one of them I'm sorry if I insulted you. She listed a few cake toppers that I had to share . These things are funny, not funny Ha! Ha!, but funny strange! : )

You can get this beauty at Thumbprint Kids:Now not to be out done, this is for the bride who finally caught that fish in the sea. You can purchase it if you dare at That's My Topper.Now for the strangest of the three...a topper for horse lovers?? I think. This can be yours for $129 at Designs by Dorian. Why??

Inspiration Board Contest ....and I won!!!!!

I can't believe it! I go and read my morning edition of the The Blog for the Discerning Bride by Blue Orchid Designs and what do you know I won the Inspiration Board contest!! Liene (the fab designer of Blue Orchid Designs) posted a work of art and as a contestant you were to create a party from the work of art. Well here was the inspiration piece entitled Yellow designed by Dallas Shaw:

And this is the party I designed entitled "Summer Shower". I think it's a perfect bridal shower for the girly-girl in your life!

Thanks Liene for the inspiration! This has truly made my morning!

What about this for something blue!

Could you imagine wearing these jewels for your wedding day? Well guess what you can. Bag Borrow or Steal is giving you that celebrity experience by allowing you to rent couture jewelry from the finest designers (i.e. Gucci and Lori Bonn above) for your walk down the aisle. This is how it works.. for an annual membership you pay $59.95 and pay weekly or monthly for the particular item you'd like to borrow. For example, you can borrow the Gucci Topaz and Pave Diamond Drop Earrings (above) for $195/week or $595/month. For you handbag wearing divas, they also have all your fav designers from Louis Vuitton to Chloe. Literally at your fingertips you can access the jewels worn by the best in Hollywood. Remember that for your next celebrity inspired event!

Keep them comfortable.

Comfy guests are Thankful guests. This is the first of many posts about how to keep your guests comfortable at your wedding.

I was doing my daily blog stalking when I ran across an ad for the Don't Bug Me Patch a new product to protect against the psycho bugs that drive everyone nuts during these warmer months. This patch is DEET free, waterproof and it lasts for 36 hours. Wow! What a great idea. All you Carolina brides out there who are taking advantage of the beautiful scenery in our area and having your nuptials outside, having this product for your guests will definitely get you an additional thank you. Remember, sometimes it is the kindest details that people remember.

Me in the Charlotte Observer.... Yeah!!!

I was so excited to know that I was in the Charlotte Observer yesterday! Why, you ask? Well every Sunday they publish a Party Tip on the cover of the Celebrations section from a local professional in town and guess who was the lucky professional this week... ME! ME!! I guess you can tell I'm a little excited! I had my husband go out and buy a few copies, because of course it would be in the local paper when I'm out of state! Unfortunately it's not available online, but as soon as I get an electronic copy I'll be sure to share!

New Reception Venue, Not Far From Charlotte

OK brides, I've found a great new venue in our area to have your reception. Actually, it is still under construction until the end of the month (July), but is already booking up really quickly. The Palmetto Room is located in Rock Hill and is just a very short drive from Charlotte. I actually timed the drive and it took me roughly 20 minutes to get back to uptown Charlotte, so it's not far at all. This location is designed beautifully with soft colors, hard wood floors and gorgeous chandeliers. You will find the wonderful details even in the bathrooms. Oh for the best part, the price is definitely right!

I was also so excited to learn that it is located in a historic building where the Friendship Nine made history and was a major part of the Civil Rights era. So if you're looking for a location with a small town feel, great design and a little bit of history, definitely give The Palmetto Room a call. Tell them Shanika sent you!