Happy New Year!

I am so excited to start 2010! I think it's going to be a great year! I have some exciting plans for this little blog and I am happy to have whoever reads it out there along for the ride! One of the things I will be offering to readers....give-a-ways! I love finding beautiful, unique things for weddings and then sharing them - so why not offer some lucky person the chance to win the things I find?? My first give-a-way will start tomorrow, so make sure you come back and check it out...until then I am wishing everyone a safe, healthy, happy New Year!!

A Cool Website!

Tonight I was playing around with a website that offers a unique way for you to make Save The Date cards, Photobooks or multimedia scrapbooks - all with a drag and drop feature! I love scrapbooking! In fact, I have about four scrapbooks I am working on - or should I say that I have been working on for...oh...ummm...3 or 4 years now. How hard can it be? Honestly, I can be "creative challenged". I have been to the local stores...I have bought all the scrapbook papers, embellishments, hole punches, ribbon, etc etc. I have boxes of this stuff. I just can't seem to sit down long enough to create those beautiful pages I see people making. Now, I find this website where you just upload your pics and then drag and drop them in the provided boxes. How easy can it be? Well, let me tell you...VERY EASY!

I have used other similar sites that allow you to do the same thing but I haven't been to any other sites that have the adorable backgrounds this site does! I have already started uploading pics! You can even share them on your blog, Facebook or email to friends and family!! You can add music and video...I am just getting started here and oh...the possibilities! :) Check it out for yourself...let me know what you think! Scrapblog.com

Something Blue

Two trends I keep reading about over and over by "experts" is that Blue is the color for 2010 and Modest gowns are in. Blue makes sense...Tiffany Blue has been a very popular color for weddings and it pairs nicely with quite a few other colors - Brown and Black come to mind. I suppose using Something Blue in your wedding would then only leave you with Something Old, Something New, and Something Borrowed to worry about so that could be a good thing! The other trend I keep reading about is that brides are going for a more covered look and that modest gowns are "in". Here are some things you can use if you are one to follow the "experts" advice...

A modest gown with a Sapphire band/bow

This modest gown (shown in Ivory/Wine) as available Sash Colors in: Midnight Blue and Sapphire

How about some pretty Blue Jewels?

Thristing for a unique favor?

Ok, the title is cheesy! But, it made me laugh! I came across this unique idea and it's yummy too! Jones Soda has an option to make your own label - complete with picture and personalized message! Personalized water bottles are so common but a yummy soda that is available in 14 flavors...kind of hard to resist! It can be a little pricey...at $16.99 a 6-pack or $29.99 for a 12-pack (don't forget to search the web for a coupon before you order!). There are so many unique ways to use these:

• Announce your engagement this way! Offer a refreshing drink to your folks! Oh the surprise!
  
• Ask your favorite friend to be your bridesmaid
• Use as decoration at your bridal shower
• Set up one per place setting at your wedding - use alternating colors that coordinate with your wedding! (see example pictures below)
  

The ideas are only limited by your imagination...any way you use them they are pretty cool!

Here are some ideas from the Jones Soda Website from Kayla & Adrian's Wedding: 

 

 

 

Comical Cake Toppers

My own bridal drive is kicking in - if you got engaged over Christmas you might know what I am talking about! I was surfing the web tonight for something unusual and interesting to post and came across these Comical Cake Toppers. Some of them made me literally LOL. I had to share them, especially when I saw the price: $30 - $40! I thought that was a bargain. Considering I had a total "cake top block" in my own wedding planning (I opted for fresh flowers for my cake top) I hope someone out there might find these fun, whimsical and unique!

 

 

 

 

 

Wishing you a Merry Christmas!

Weddings and planning tend to slow down a bit around these times. I wonder why....it couldn't have anything to do with the hustle and bustle of planning for Christmas...could it?? :) We will be taking a few days off posting to celebrate with our family. We wish you  a very nice holiday! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

White, Ivory or...Diamond White!

Colors, colors, colors. Now your wedding gown can come in a variety of colors. Let's be honest though the percentage of brides who will NOT wear a white wedding gown has to be pretty small right? Before, you had a choice of White or Ivory and now we throw into the mix the color Diamond White. What is Diamond White? It's basically a creamy version of white. It's not as stark as white and it's not as yellow as Ivory. It's actually a color that works with many skin tones and because it is a soft color I think it photographs beautifully! You would probably be surprised by how many dresses are photographed for the magazine ads in this color - because with the proper lighting it does come off as white in photos. I love the color and I love dresses in that color! Here are three dress that are sampled in Diamond White...can YOU tell the difference?

Dresses courtesy of Bonny Bridal

Bridal Shows

Recently, I have been getting a lot of emails about upcoming bridal shows in my area (Southern California). If you are newly engaged I think a bridal show is a great place to get started! January kicks off the bridal show season - I am sure every one knows why! Christmas and New Years are two of the biggest engagement times during the year! Bridal shows can be overwhelming if you have never been to one! There are vendors for every thing you can think of - from DJ's and Photographers to Tupperware and Tuxedos. You will get A LOT of information to put you into bridal over-drive. One good thing? Cake samples! :) Isn't that enough reason to go? To find a local bridal show or expo in your area you can do a search but here are a few sites that list them by state:

http://www.wedalert.com/bridal_show/
http://www.onewed.com/bridalshows/

Kick Off Your Heels!

I am one of those people who just can not wear high heels. I envy girls who can! I love them, but I have valid excuses: I am 5'10, I have weak ankles, my arch can't support them, blah blah blah. When I was planning my wedding, the dress wasn't the problem (I found three...check my older blog posts for that story...) my shoes, on the other hand, big problem! I knew I wanted flats but what kind? I wanted some dressy shoes that were stylish but comfort was at the top of my list! I went through multiple pairs of shoes trying to find the perfect pair - and I admit 4 years later I still have some of them (unworn) that didn't make the cut. I found an awesome site that I wanted to share because when I saw it my first thought was: "Wow I wish I had found this site when I was looking!"

These shoes are from Esny (a division of Totes and Isotoner)

Satin Flats with rhinestone trim in White, Ivory or Black $30.00

Flat Wedding Sandals with Rhinestones in Silver $20.00

Thong Wedding Sandals with Rhinestones in White or Black $20.00

(the black shows the detail better but these are super cute!)

Isotoner Rose Quilted Ballerina Women's Slippers with Rhinestones $20.00

(what a deal! these have a suede bottom!)

And finally...let's not forget your bridesmaids! I found some totally cute flip flops from Dessy! They come in their most popular bridesmaid colors (talk about color match ease!). They come with a matching bag and for $15.00 how can you not say "DEAL"!

Destination: Wedding

When planning my own wedding, I was all for a destination wedding! With family and friends spread all over I thought what better way to bring everyone together for a vacation AND wedding. Well, I guess I am not alone because destination weddings have become more and more popular. The average cost of a wedding is $20,000 - $25,000 - wow that would be a GREAT vacation wouldn't it? :) Years ago, I think anyone planning a destination wedding (wasn't it called eloping then?) would find slim pickings on wedding items, wedding dresses and all the thrills and frills that make a wedding, but not any more! A destination wedding can be as simple or as ornate as you want! The pickle is...what if you want someone at the wedding that can't or won't travel? This was the case with my future in-laws, so pretty much the destination wedding was off, in my case! So, first thing to do is ask those people who must be there if getting away for your wedding will work. If it does work for them....start planning! You have so many options (and not just tropical locations!). Here are some fun things I found for destination weddings...

Save The Date Cards: I love these cards because they are all handmade - no cookie cutter save the date here! They are hand stamped - not mass printed and I think that adds a more personal touch. Having a smaller wedding party means you can spend a little extra on things.

Save the Date Shipping Luggage Tags for Destination Weddings

The Dress: Let's face it: whether you are on a beach or a mountain top your destination wedding dress might have to be a little less ballroom friendly! There are plenty of destination wedding dresses to choose from now! Anything vintage or retro is so hot right now and these types of dresses would fit perfectly into a destination theme!

Alfred Angelo Style 16574 - Love the fabric on this dress!

Bonny Style 638 - I love the brooch on this gown

This dress from Dessy Destination Bridal Style 1006, is so romantic to me!

 

You Light Up My Night...

Time to divulge another secret site! Well, it's not really a secret...I am sure a lot of people know about this site but I always see people posting on boards about paper lanterns and I always see that they are paying way too much! I have been buying paper lanterns from this site and I haven't found anyone (yet) who can beat their price! I love the colored lanterns and they come in so many colors!! Guess what else they sell? Paper parasols! If anyone is thinking about using these colorful balls for their wedding/reception or party they should certainly check out the Paper Lantern Store.

Here are some photos from their site.
The  12" round are a great size!

When you mix and match though it creates quite a festive room...don't you think?

 

Dress of the Day

Time for another oh-so-pretty dress of the day! The bodice on this gown is really pretty! I like the way it smooths everything out. If you try this dress on in person make sure you check out the fabric! It's AWESOME! I love French Taffeta! I think the fabric really makes this dress and if you compare it to something similar in a Satin fabric...you will know exactly what I am talking about. This gown is from the Unforgettable line from Bonny...which is their plus size line of dresses. Simply stunning! :)


Description: Style 1623. Strapless gown with beading falling from the neckline. Full skirt and semi-cathedral train is draped with beaded accents and has a bubbled hemline.

 

Image is from Bonny Bridal

Party Party Party!

Last night I attended my first holiday party and it was so much fun! The hosts took care of the main course and everyone else needed to bring a side dish or dessert. I am happy to cook or bake, at any time, so my kitchen skills were in over drive! I was having so much fun making my chocolate mousse cups with the Best-Ever Cupcake Icing Kit that I decided to also make banana cream parfait cups! Since I was using a cupcake icing kit I thought about brides or bridesmaids out there who might want to create their own professional looking cupcakes and this kit makes it EASY!! Too much fun and so many uses! Check out some of the other items I found on Bake It Pretty!

This item is $16.95 and has many uses!

Bridal Shower Cupcake Kit by Meri Meri $12.95

Good Good News!

Wasn't able to post about any of my normal topics because I was having a very important meeting during my "blog time". Why am I telling you this? Well, simply because the meeting was ABOUT my blog! I am very excited to share that we will have some upcoming sponsors of fabulous items you find right here on my blog! It all starts with my leg work to find absolutely must have items (or too freaking cute to not have....). I blog about them so that who ever stumbles upon me thinks: "Cool idea! Oh! And look! A contest going on...I can win it! Great, sign me up!" :) So, my fab friends in bridal land...stay tuned!! Some pretty neat things are happening around here and I don't want you to miss anything!!

Photo Booths

Photo booths are a hot new trend for weddings and you can bet if I was planning my wedding now I would incorporate a photo booth in it! For older guests it will bring back a little nostalgia, for the younger guests...well look out! You will probably get some pretty candid shots from them! Some photo booths will offer guests two copies - which would be perfect for you to incorporate into a Guest Book: have guests leave a photo with comments next to it. You could also use the pictures as your wedding favor! Photo booths are a great way to create special keepsakes from your wedding - for you AND your guests!

Some important question to ask a Photo Booth rental company:

• Do they provide you with a CD compilation of your day’s photos
• Do they place them online for you and your loved ones to access, share, and print
• Do they offer a scrap booking option and how much extra is it
• Ask about Photo Resolution - you want to make sure you will get the clearest, sharpest pictures
• Ask about Booth Size - classic booths are a little smaller inside than digital booths. Make sure you know how many people will fit inside before booking
• Do they offer a Booth Attendant. It's important that someone knows how to work it or fix it, should there be any problem

There are two types of photo booths: Vintage (black and white photos) and Digital (color photos). I like the classic look and feel of vintage photos, personally.

Some fun ideas to think of if you are planning on having a photo booth:

Have some fun "props" on hand for your guests to use: Use themed items for your wedding or be daring with feather boas, Oversized sunglasses, Magic Wands, Mardi Gras masks, clown wigs, oversized hats...you get the idea! Another suggestion: have a small chalkboard on hand for guests to use to incorporate messages to the bride and groom.If you want to get fancy...I also saw a photo of a personalized "Admit One" ticket that you could use for guests. Here are a couple of website I found that will custom print these tickets:

Design your own tickets - Prices start at $65 for 250 tickets
http://www.ticketprinting.com/Design-Your-Own.aspx
http://www.us-ticket.com/custom-roll-tickets.html
http://www.nationalticket.com/Ticket_Printing/raffle-tickets.asp

If you don't want to do a custom printed ticket you can head down to your local office supply/party supply store but keep in mind these "Admit One" tickets are usually sold in rolls of 2000.

These photos were viewed at Martha Stewart

Dress of The Day!

WOW...ready to be stunned? What a great dress this is! There are several reasons why I chose this dress. Let me tell you a little bit more about it....it's obviously a Strapless gown but one of the things that caught my attention was the slightly curved neckline and beautiful beading. The beading is not overdone but it's enough to give the "oooh" factor - yes I just said "oooh" to describe this beautiful gown. I also love the pleating folds down through the bodice - very flattering!! And it has that pretty little beaded accent! It has a circle skirt that adds fullness to the bodice because it's fitted. Everything just works with this dress. Oh...and don't let me forget the back! We all know MOST of your guests will always be seeing you from that angle. This dress doesn't disappoint there either! Everything is tied in...which is why this is a dress I love! From Bonny Bridal. Style 913.

This gorgeous gown is from the Bonny Bridal Collection. A special "Thank You" to Bonny

for allowing me to use your beautiful dresses on my blog!

Just Look For The Sign!

Signs By Diane feature elegant and fun shabby custom personalized signs for weddings, businesses, or family homes! You can choose your colors, phrases and style of fonts!! The owner loves working with brides and she is extremely flexible to work with.

Many of the signs are made to order and tend to take 5-7 business days but if you need something in a hurry just let her know and she will do her best to work with you.

Though we may be heading into the holiday season it's not too early to think ahead to spring and summer weddings! Get your name on my list for an absolutely FABULOUS personalized wedding sign. Diane will work with your desires and needs! ♥

64.95 for the set of 3

8.95 for each Table Number

Photo Booth Sign 23.95

Wedding Sign 23.95

Painting your own Wedding Palette

I was reading a book called "Countdown To Your Perfect Wedding" and it offered these interesting ideas for wedding colors. Some I really like, some I have seen in person at weddings already and some I would LOVE to see. Now that I have some colors to work with I can put on my "Great Buy" shades and start shopping for deals! This is what I love to do!! Find things I love and then find the best deal possible on them. Lucky for you my passion for finding afforable, cool things gets passed on right here for you to see! Now, here are the color schemes I will be working with:


•Tangerine with Azure Blue and a shot of Espresso

•Sky Blue, Navy Blue, Celadon Green and a splash of Purple Wine

•Glossy White, Metallic Grey, Bold Magenta and Sleek Black ... very Chanel

•Dark Cocoa, Seafoam Mint, Metallic Silver on Ivory

•Blueberry, Raspberry, Lavender, Black and Charcoal Gray

•Jewel tones mixed with antique metallic for Fall and Winter

•Reinvent the wheel on Black and White, add a splash of apple green; or if you’ve already seen enough "green" weddings, try citrus yellow instead!
 
So, I plan to pick out one or two and start surfing for bridal deals. What about YOUR color scheme? Share it with me (if you are still looking for affordable items in your theme I can use my "Great Buy" shades and look for you too!!!)

Fun, Frilly and Fabulous Frocks!

Monogram Here...Monogram There...

I have a friend that made aisle runners and parasols with a monogram (she made an aisle runner for my wedding) and I thought it was such an amazing way to personalize your wedding AND get some pretty amazing pictures! ;) So, when I ran across IDo Originals it brought back some great memories! I checked out the blog first and then headed straight over to their Etsy store to check pricing. The prices are pretty reasonable ($35 - $50) so I thought I would share this find. They also have a website you can order from here. I love the Table Runners and Banners so make sure you check those out on their website!

Another Fab Find!

I had to share this totally adorable, unique gift find! It's a hand made hanger...there are several designs available. What a unique gift for the bride-to-be! They are hand made by Lila Frances. I checked out her store and it states orders are about 3 weeks to completion so if you need it by a certain date...best to plan ahead! Hope you think it's as cute as I do!

Cute Favor Idea

I know a girl getting married next June at a winery here in So Calif so I have had my eye out on favors and things she may incorporate at her wedding. I have seen some amazing ideas for weddings being held at a winery!! These cute little place card holders caught my eye. They come in sets of four. The cheapest place, so far, I have been able to find them is on Blue Rainbow Design - the cost decreases with the amount you buy but, the price for 1 set breaks down to $1.13 each! A great deal on a cute, theme inspired placecard or photo holder!