Brides Decide

I love politics. It's right up there with weddings and baking! I'm not sure why I have this obsession, but I have always been very interested with the state of this country as well as who the major decision makers are. Needless, to say I have watched a lot of CNN for the past couple of months and I'm sure I'll be watching more in the near future. I ran across this site today ( I can't remember who blogged about it, sorry) , Brides Decide- Get Engaged in the 2008 Election. I love that tag line. The mission of this site is to motivate young engaged women and newlyweds to make educated decisions about their community via the political process. I think that's great! Go over and take a look at it if you can tear yourself away from your wedding magazines.

Oh, I almost forgot, there are also pics of some of the candidates on their wedding day along with a Q&A about their beloved wedding story. Below are a few of the candidates and their spouses. Unfortunately, my candidate wasn't pictured. I would love to see Barack and Michelle on their wedding day! :)

John and Elizabeth Edwards


Hillary and Bill Clinton


Mike and Janet Hucakbee

Real Wedding - LaToya and Gerard

We happily assisted LaToya and Gerard with their wedding in December. The ceremony and reception were very simple and very personal, which I totally love. LaToya walked down the aisle to Israel Kamakawiwo Ole's version of Somewhere Over The Rainbow/What a Wonderful World. It was absolutely wonderful to see the faces of her guests as she walked down the aisle. The song fit her and I loved it. I wish them much happiness as they walk together in marriage. Here are some of my favorite pics from the event.



Images Courtesy of Cheyenne Schultz Photography

I love them! I absolutely love them!

There really isn't much else to say. I love them. I don't remember the last time I wore a pair of white shoes, but I would wear these shoes to sleep! Thanks Stylehive for keeping me in the know and thanks Christian Dior for making me want to wear a pair of white shoes!

Your Spring Wedding - Outside Ceremony

The great thing about having your wedding ceremony outdoors is you have the advantage of using the beautiful and natural scenery at no cost. With any wedding decor you can do a little or you can do a lot. Most times if you're getting married an a garden, you won't have to add a lot to the already beautiful landscape, unless you're transforming your backyard into your ceremony space (see what this space looked like before HGTV transformed it).

If you're on a tight budget, try to find an outside location that is already naturally beautiful, for example one with a big open sky or a beautiful garden. Take advantage of the spring blooms and the beautiful green grass during this time of year. Here are a few of my favorite ceremony decor ideas. If you pick the right location, it doesn't require much decor to make your ceremony beautiful and unique.




Images from The Knot

where was she when I was getting married???

I'm talking about the amazing photographer, Susan Stripling. She is based out of Tallahassee, FL, my hometown, and oh how I wish I would've known she existed in 2002. Then I wouldn't be stuck with the awful pictures I have for my own wedding. I stumbled upon her blog last night and I'm glad I did. I am such a photography snob and I love to ooh and ahhh over gorgeous pictures. Here are few pics from her blog. Go over and check out her site. She does outstanding work and when I go home to Tallahassee this spring, I'll be looking her up!

Here a couple of my favorites!

Thanks Dr. King!

Happy MLK Day! Today, my husband and daughter and I went to the Levine Museum of the New South to view the exhibit Cotton Fields to Skyscrapers, which was an excellent depiction of how the Charlotte area has grown since the 1800's from slavery to it's present. First I must say, it was an excellent exhibit and if you haven't seen it you should take a break from your wedding planning and get on down there. But anyway, I showed my two and half year old Ronni the picture of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr and she asks "what him do"? : ) I told her, he taught people to be nice to each other. Simply put, but that's what he did. I've spent the day just thinking, what if there wasn't a Dr. King or the like? How would our lives be different. Well, here's a short list I quickly came up with:

• More than likely I wouldn't live where I live, in a multi-racial neighborhood that I love
• My husband would probably not have the job he has now
• My daughter probably wouldn't be welcomed in the preschool I just enrolled her in for the fall
• Chances are you probably wouldn't be able to date the person you're dating now comfortably if you're in a multi-racial relationship and you wouldn't be able to marry them
• I wouldn't be able to cast my vote for the upcoming election
  

No matter what your political affiliation, you have to admit that there would be no Barack Obama, if sacrifices had not been made by Dr. King and his colleagues. I am sincerely thankful for those who participated in the Civil Rights movement. This is coming from someone who actually cried when I voted for the first time. Having understood at that moment (18 years old) how many people died for me a young black girl to have the right to vote, it overwhelmed me. I'm sincerely thankful to those who have paved the way to make my life what it is today and I'm grateful to those who continue to live each day treating people as people, fairly and equally and not judging them based on the color of their skin.

Photo: Teaching American History in Maryland, Brown vs. The Board of Education

The Martha Stewart Show - The Wedding Show

On Friday January 18th The Martha Stewart Show will air it's "Wedding Show". This episode will showcase bridal gowns and bridesmaids attire from Badgley Mischka , tips on how to pick your perfect wedding cake and Darcy Miller showing Martha's Good Things for the wedding day. I can't wait. You can't have too many Good Things for your wedding day! :) So, set your DVRs and TIVOs, I'm sure you won't want to miss this episode.

Your Spring Wedding - DIY Place Cards and Table Numbers

I love cute DIY wedding ideas, especially the easy stuff. Here are a few place card and table number ideas that will add that little something extra to your reception table.


Let's start with the easiest idea first, from Khris over at DIYBride. Great website, by the way if you haven't seen it. Khris calls it the Chalkboard Votive. If you are having an informal wedding reception where fun is your main priority, these place cards may be nice for your table. Here are the directions.

Supplies Needed

1. Chalkboard paint (found at craft stores and home improvement centers)
2. Votive cups
3. Newspaper or other covering to protect your work surface
4. Well-ventilated work area (do this outside if at all possible)
5. Chalk

Instructions

1. Cover your work surface with newspaper.
2. Wash and thoroughly dry your votive cups. This removes any gunk and fingerprints to ensure you get a nice, even coverage of paint.
3. Turn the votive cups upside down on the work surface. (So you don’t spray inside the cup.)
4. Spray the votives with chalkboard paint. Hold the paint can about 8″ - 12″ from the cup and spray lightly. Too much paint will leave runny marks down the side of the glass.
5. Let the paint dry per manufacturer’s directions. (About an hour should do. Your time may vary.)
6. Add another coat, if you want. Sometimes it takes a 2nd to cover any spots you may have missed or to get a good base on larger pieces.
7. After the paint is dry, write your message on the votive. Voila!

Also, most of the chalkboard paint I've seen only comes in black or green so it may not necessarily go with your spring decor, but I searched and finally found the instructions on how to create a custom chalkboard paint color. Here's the how-to:

Custom Colors How-To
Start with flat-finish latex paint in any shade. For small areas, such as a door panel, mix 1 cup at a time.

1. Pour 1 cup of paint into a container. Add 2 tablespoons of unsanded tile grout. Mix with a paint stirrer, carefully breaking up clumps.

2. Apply paint with a roller or a sponge paintbrush to a primed or painted surface. Work in small sections, going over the same spot several times to ensure full, even coverage. Let dry.

3. Smooth area with 150-grit sandpaper, and wipe off dust.

4. To condition: Rub the side of a piece of chalk over entire surface. Wipe away residue with a barely damp sponge.

The Floaty Butterflies (pictured above) from Martha just screams spring! I absolutely love them. This would definitely be a conversation piece. Well, I know I wouldn't be able to stop talking about them.

Tools and Materials
Spray adhesive
Decorative paper
Card stock
Template
Pencil
Scissors

Floaty Butterflies How-To
1. Spray-mount paper onto card stock or paper that's colored on both sides; fold in half. Place butterfly template on paper with flat edge of butterfly's body flush against fold; trace.

2. Cut out butterfly along inside of the traced line and cut out V-shaped notch along the folded edge. Open slightly. Slip notch over rim of glass to hold butterfly in place.

Don't forget the Butterfly Template.

Table Numbers


This idea from Martha Stewart, I thought was great. This Trifold Table Number is created so it can be seen from all angles. Really, how many times have you been to a reception and had a little trouble finding your seat because the number was faced in an odd direction. I know I have. Here's how to make it.

1. To make it, use a computer to print numbers onto pieces of colored cover stock (or have numbers calligraphed).
2. Trim the papers to 6 by 7 1/2 inches. For the feet, cut 1/2-inch squares from both corners on bottom edge.
3. Measure over 1 inch for each foot, and mark.
4. Cut out a 3-by-1/2-inch strip between marks.
5. Crease each sheet down the middle, and join the 3 pieces with rubber cement.


Last but not least is the personalized table numbers. This great idea was posted by Kelly on the Weddingbee. Each table was numbered based on a year in the bride and groom's life, with a picture of them during that year. What a great idea to allow your guests to walk down memory lane with you as they see how each of you grew up. This will definitely get your guests talking and laughing.

Remember you can use photos of your pets, places you've visited together, any of your favorite things and even your engagement photos. Be creative. Remember your guests will remember and appreciate the little touches.

Your Spring Wedding - Spring Color Inspiration Board

I love the colors for this spring. In November, I blogged about the fab colors we would be seeing on the runway as well as weddings for this spring. Here are my three favorite combinations:

(Freesia, Cantaloupe and Croissant)

Below is a beautiful-chic garden wedding inspired by the colors above. If you are interested in using three colors for your wedding the key to doing it successfully is by using a little of each color and save your boldest color for the accents. For example, the burlap table linen represents my Croissant color and it would give the table a nice neutral feel and interesting texture. The cantaloupe in my opinion is the softest and prettiest of the three so it would be my main color. You don't have to go crazy with all three colors, but give enough of each to create a beautiful balance. Because the Freesia is so bold, I would use it as an accent color to the tablescape and the bouquets.


Photos Courtesy by:
Cake: Brides.com
Dress: Monique Lhuillier
Flowers, Drinks, Tablesetting: The Knot
Linen: Bright Setting
Garden Wedding: Larrimore Weddings

Your Spring Wedding - DIY Resource

How on God's green earth did I forget to blog about this? I don't know, but better late than never. Khris Cochran from DIY Bride has given us what I would refer to as the DIY Wedding Bible! :) She is so talented and if you are thinking of doing some things (I didn't say everything) yourself for your wedding, you need to pick up this book! If you're unsure where to find it in your area, click here for Amazon.

Your Spring Wedding - Mocktails

What's a beautiful spring wedding without great food and drinks. What better way to think about your guests than to give them an option when it comes to your signature drinks. They choose beef or chicken, right? Brides and grooms out there, you can still have a stylish and trendy event even if you do not serve alcohol. It's just all about how you do it. Although you will not have the fully stocked bar, having a few drinks set up specifically for your guests would be a great touch and a tasty one if you pick the right drinks. Here's a few to whet your taste buds!

Oh do I love sweet tea and lemonade. If you're from Charlotte, you've had this drink probably 100 times. The Arnold Palmer. So simple but yet so refreshing. It's an excellent drink for an afternoon garden reception. Here is the recipe.

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 oz lemonade
• 3 oz iced tea

PREPARATION:

1. Pour equal amounts of lemonade and iced tea into a collins glass filled with ice.
2. Stir

I've never tried this drink, but it sounds delicious and it's so pretty. Your guests will fill like they are getting a treat when they see this one. It's the Virgin Miami Vice. (pictured above)

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 oz pineapple juice
• 1 oz coconut cream
• 1/2 oz half & half cream
• 1 1/2 oz strawberry puree
• 1 1/2 oz lime juice
• 1/4 oz simple syrup
• 1 cup ice, crushed
• strawberry for garnish

PREPARATION:

1. Place the pineapple juice, coconut cream, cream and a half a cup of ice into a blender.
2. Blend the mixture until smooth.
3. Pour the mixture into a highball glass.
4. Place the strawberry puree, lime juice, simple syrup and the remaining half cup of ice into a blender.
5. Blend the mixture until smooth.
6. Slowly pour the strawberry-lime mixture over the back of a barspoon on top of the pineapple-coconut mixture.
7. Garnish with a strawberry.

Last put not least we have the more sophisticated of the three, the Designated Appletini. I love that name! :) Here's how to make it.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 oz freshly pressed apple juice (green or gold apples)
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 1/4 oz lemon juice
• granulated sugar for rimming
• apple slice for garnish

PREPARATION:

1. Add apple juice, simple syrup and lemon juice to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
2. Shake well.
3. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass rimmed with granulated sugar.
4. Garnish with an apple slice.

Photos courtesy of: Arnold Palmer: Wandering Chopsticks
Virgin Miami Vice: Spokane7
Appletini: Daffodils

For more mocktails check out this full list!

Your Spring Wedding - Circular Ceremony Seating

Often times when you're having your ceremony in a hall or church you don't really have an option in regards to how to seat your guests. However, if you plan on taking advantage of the beautiful weather(we hope) and the newly bloomed flowers this spring why not consider having circular seating for your guests.


With this seating all of your guests can see and hear everything! Remember if you aren't mic'd up appropriately your guests sitting way in the back may not hear you say your vows or miss out on a funny comment made by your groom. But if you seat them this way they will not miss a thing. Remember it's the little details that your guests will appreciate most and believe me that won't stop talking about it!
Photos courtesy of Larrimore Weddings and Sawnet.org

Your Spring Wedding - Flowers

I know sometimes brides struggle over which flowers to choose for their bouquets and centerpieces. If you don't have a favorite flower, your best bet is use the flowers that are growing in that particular season. Two reasons why: They are plentiful and they may be less costly than a flower that is not normally grown during the Spring. Lucky for you, Spring has some of the most gorgeous flowers of the year. Here is a list of spring flowers and when they are available. For the complete list, click here.

Anemone (Blue, red, pink, white)- Jan-May and Aug-Dec (pictured above from Martha Stewart Weddings)
Bells of Ireland ( Green ) January-October
Boronia ( Pink ) April-May
Casa Blanca Lily (White ) January-October
Daffodil ( Yellow ) January-Early May
Delphinium ( White, Blue ) April- October
Hyacinth ( Purple, Pink or White)
Lilacs (Violet or White)
Narcissus ( White)
Peony (Pink or White) Late Spring – Early Summer
Ranunculus ( white, pink, red, orange and yellow ) February-May
Star Gazer Lily ( Pink and White ) January-October
Sweetpea ( white, pink, red/coral, and lavender/purple ) December-May
Tulip ( Many colors, including white, pink, yellow, red, and purple ) December-April
Waxflower ( pinky purple and white)

Just in case you're scratching your head and saying what is a Peony? I have some pics below for your viewing pleasure.


(From L to R: Peonies, Delphinium (Top Right and Bottom Left), Lilacs)


(From L to R: Stargazer Lily, Daffodils, Sweetpea, Hyacinth, Ranunculus, Narcissus, Bells of Ireland)

There are also some beautiful flowers that are grown year round that will be beautiful for your wedding.

(From L to R: Lily of the Valley, Calla Lily, Carnations, Baby's Breath, center: Orchids)

Your Spring Wedding: Dear Charlotte Brides

Dear Charlotte Brides!

Below are some very important dates, especially if you're planning a spring wedding. Please jot these dates down in your calendar.

Trunk Shows! Are you that designer gown kinda bride?? Then don't miss out on these important dates.
Location: Nitsa's
Monique Lhuillier, January 25 -26, 2008
Judd Waddell, February 29-March 1, 2008

Bridal Shows:
The Bridal Showcase: Sunday January, 13, 2008, Charlotte Convention Center
Winter Bridal Show Spectacular: Sunday January 27, 2008, Hilton Charlotte Executive Park

A Bridal Show is an excellent way for you to get face to face with a lot of the wedding vendors in this area. Make sure you wear comfy shoes because you'll probably be on your feet for awhile as you go around to look at all of the vendors. Also, here's a little hint. Print out labels with your name and contact information so you won't have to write it a gazillion times. Trust me! There will be what will seem like a hundred contests for you to enter and if you don't have the labels already printed, you'll have to write you info over and over.

I know after you've tackled the bridal show and gotten all of your vendors you may think yes I can do this all by myself. Well, in a way that was the easy part! :) You'll still need a manager for your day. Think about it, do you really want it to be you?? or your mom? or your best friend? Of course not. You want them to enjoy the day too, right? Ok, I'm off my soapbox.
We won't be participating in the bridal shows, however, if you read this blog you know how to get in touch with me for your planning needs. Just in case you don't have it here's my info: info[at]sjbweddingsandevents[dot]com.

Image Courtesy of Six Until Me

Your Spring Wedding

Now since we've all made it through the holidays, it's time to start focusing more on your wedding. For the month of January (maybe beyond) we're going to look some ideas and inspiration that will make your wedding gorgeous. Check back for info on flowers and decor, little things to keep your guests comfy during those outside nuptials, info on where to have your garden wedding in Charlotte and much more. So, if you are getting married this spring this is going to be an excellent place to get some inspiration and ideas for Your Spring Wedding!!!

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year everyone!!! I hope your year is a prosperous one. Here's to thinking positively, spirituality, family and success in 2008!!!