Thankful Thursday.......

Many of you keep a Gratitude journal.... well, so do I. I started mine when Oprah first started talking about them years ago. Of course, there have been lots of times when I haven't completed it, but I always seem to come back to it. It seems to keep me grounded. Doing one everyday helps me find pleasure in the small things that I tend to take for granted. You know.... like blades of grass, laughter, my doggies kisses and my husband warm hugs. I was inspired to start my Thankful Thursday series when completing my gratitude journal the other day. Feel free to leave a comment and let me know what you are thankful for every Thursday - right here.

My first Thankful Thursday entry:

I am thankful for so many wonderful friends and colleagues in the wedding industry. I have met some of my best friends since beginning in this business. They are all so willing to assist whenever the need arises and to offer creative criticism and pats on the back when I need it. Extra special thanks to my dear friend, Tammy Ogden of A Splendid Affair. She knows exactly what I am talking about - smile.

Grooms cake......

The grooms cake was originally a southern wedding tradition. However, lately it seems the tradition is being used by just about everyone planning a wedding. The idea is wonderful, I think.

Way back when, the grooms cake was a fruit cake ( please hold the groans) and was taken home by the unmarried female guests. Supposedly, the ladies would wrap the pieces up and place them under their pillows and dream of their future husband.

Traditionally, the brides orders the cake but would design it based on her future husbands personality. In more modern times, the groom takes part in designing his cake and often makes it a surprise for all including his future Mrs. I have seen some over the top gorgeous groom cakes and some that are just over the top. Enjoy the pictures!

Erin Hession Photography

I have long been an admirer of Erin Hession Photography in Indianapolis. Her work is quite simply amazing. I had the great fortune to meet her through one of my wedding planner friends, April Foster at one of Indianapolis' Bridal Shows. Erin and her husband, John, established Erin Hession Photography in 1994. Since that moment, they have been thrilling bridal couples and their families with their beautiful work. They offer clients candid shots allowing the couple and guests personalities to come flowing through . When I see their pictures,I always feel like I am a guest at the event. Erin Hession Photography has been named one of Indy Channel's A-List top 5 photographers. They have also been published in several local and national magazines - InTake, Studio Photography and Design and Image magazine. I recently travelled to Chicago and met one of Erin Hession's former brides. This was one happy bride - still raving about the level of service and product she and her husband recieved from Erin Hession Photography. I can certainly understand why. They recently photographed the Indianapolis edition of Extreme Home Makeover. I love that they are so community service driven as well. Erin is hosting two Boudior marathon sessions with a portion of the proceeds going to Go Red for Women. If you want a special gift for your new husband- then, I would suggest you sign up for the November session. These sessions are so gorgeous and for a great cause.

Be sure to visit the blog as there is always TONS of photography information there.

Your pretty little twenties.........

Wedding season is underway in Indianapolis! What a wonderful time to get married (although I tend to like all seasons for weddings).

There is so much to do in preparation for the big day and one of the last to be done is the mani/pedi. Just remember - it's much easier to have a beautiful set of fingernails and toenails on your wedding day IF you keep them prepared all the time. This doesn't mean you need to have a mani/pedi done all the time. There are MANY tricks you can do at home to keep your nails beautiful. Here are a few:

• CUTICLE OIL - This is a MUST! Place a few drops on each nail and massage gently into all parts. I suggest doing this several times a day. You can also massage your lotion into the cuticles each time you wash your hands. Don't forget to do your toes - more reasonable to do this at night and in the morning. My favorite cuticle oil is from Deborah Lippmann and her Lippmann collection line. It's called - CUTICLE OIL (who knew) and contains jojoba oil. Love,love,love the scent! It is $18, but so worth it! You can also use her hand and cuticle cream - RICH GIRL. This cream LASTS for what seems like forever!


• REMOVE THE DEAD SKIN - The best way to do this and keep dead skin to a minimum is by doing it in the shower. Your skin is softer and will remove much more easily. The old yukky stuff goes right down the drain. You can use a pumice stone for this task. You can also use - GET OFF - from the Lippmann collection. This stuff is AWESOME! Spray on and watch the dead skin roll off. Never ever use a blade to remove dead skin. I learned this lesson YEARS ago! Not only is it illegal in Indiana, but it's just plain scary.


• BUFF - Keep the ridges off of your nails by buffing them at least once a week. You will see a shine which requires no need for polish. If you choose to use polish, it will GLIDE on beautifully. Please do NOT forget those toes.......


• POLISH - I know above I said that you don't need to polish if you buff. Let's face it - most of us LOVE a little color in our life. There is so much to choose from these days. I adore the colors from OPI's Fairytale line. These are gorgeous colors for brides and others.

I have listed what may seem like some expensive options but rest assured you can find some great and inexpensive alternatives at your local drugstore as well.

Let's not forget your grooms hands - nothing looks better than great buffed fingernails for your man in your ring shots!

Have a LOVE-ly day!

ASK THE PLANNER - Do I really need a seating chart?

There are only a FEW instances where I would say you may not need a seating chart. Are you just having a cocktail hour reception? Then, you may be fine not having it. Just make sure you have seating arranged for your guests will special needs. However, in most other cases, you absolutely MUST having seating prearranged. Some reasons why you need a seating chart:

• It will cut the time guest take to get seated.


• Everyone may make a mad dash for the"good seats". You don't want anyone getting hurt trying to get to a seat - do you?


• Older relatives may end up with a seat where they can't see or hear.


• Your decor may be ruined by guests using their coats to "hold" seats. Believe me, I have been to weddings where this has happened.


• If people show up uninvited, they may take a seat intended for a guest who has R.S.V.P'd.

The list goes on and on......... Do your self a favor and take the time to plan your seating.

DailyCandy Keeps You in the Know

Like to eat, buy, and do stuff? You’ll love DailyCandy, a free e-mail about the latest in fashion, food, fun, and more. We offer daily editions in eleven U.S. cities and London; a national Everywhere edition; and weekly Kids, Deals, and Travel.

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Choosing your wedding shoes.............

In the last few years, we have seen so brides sporting many different styles when it comes to wedding shoes. I think it is wonderful! Brides these days are not stuck with the old satin wedding shoes - you know the ones - the same ones you could dye to match your prom dress?

Thankfully, brides are choosing what suits them and their style. From sparkles to stripes - anything is game! Want to wear tennies under your gown? My biggest bit of advice to brides is to make sure they are comfortable! One bride may be completely comfortable wearing ballet flats while another finds comfort in a stiletto. Be sure to "break" your shoes in before your big day. Wear them around the house - outside - take them to your venue and walk/dance around in them. You certainly do not want any blisters on your feet - right? You may also consider adding some of the sole pads to the to the bottoms of your shoes for added traction - JUST NOT ON YOUR LOUBUOTIN'S - please! You can also added a little traction by using sandpaper to scuff the soles a bit.

HAPPY EARTH DAY 2009

In honor of Earth Day, I'd like to share with you some ways to have an Eco-friendly wedding.

You may already planned most of your wedding, but it's never too late to add some green elements to your day.

• Arrange for any left over food to be donated to a local food pantry or mission. Just be sure to make arrangements before hand for drop off.



• Opt for a caterer who uses organic foods.



• Have a smaller, more intimate wedding and reception.



• Reduce paper whenever possible - Use one large menu card instead of individual menu cards.



• Do you really need all of those place cards and escort cards? Why not opt for a couple of seating charts.



• Why not create a wedding website - reducing paper once again. For as little as $100, you can get a beautiful site from BluDomain. Your Internet friendly friends will love it. For those on your list who may not own a computer or are more traditional, you can still have some traditional invites. Just be sure they are printed on recycled paper.



• Centerpieces - use potted plants instead of floral blooms. Orchids create a BEAUTIFUL effect as a centerpiece. Scatter smooth stones for a spa like feel.



• Live a green life after the wedding.

These are just a few things you can do. There are tons of ways to create a green wedding.

Eventology '09

I had the pleasure of attending E'09 a few weeks ago. As I blogged about back then, it was so much fun to meet everyone and to learn valuable info from some of the best in the industry.

The official photographer for the event was JK Photography based out of Michigan. She did an awesome job as always. Please view more of her photos here.

We have a new site!

We are so exicted here - I know - we are always excited!

Indulge us a bit more - please? Our new site launched last night! Take a moment to view at http://www.eventsweddingandplanning.com/ and let us know what you think. We still have more wedding pictures to load soon, but for the most part we are a go! Our email address has also changed - please email us at info@eventsweddingandplanning.com . We love hearing from you!

FRIDAY FAVE - Momental Designs

Many of you know of my love for all things paper! I love writing my to do list on fancy note cards, love writing hand written thank- you cards........... So, I was so happy when I first saw the gorgeous hand painted designs created by Kristy Rice of Momental Designs. Even more thrilled when I was the recipient of some of her goodies in my SWAG BAG at Eventology '09. Kristy created her own wedding stationary and then that of her friends and family before beginning Momental Designs in 2003. Kristy and her team work with brides from across the nation and internationally. I can definitely see why. Her primary medium is watercolor which is just lovely.

From her website: "The word momental describes Kristy’s philosophy: “weddings are joyous, yet fleeting, occasions that deserve the utmost in creative details.” Kristy sees handcrafted invitations, programs, seating cards, etc. as the details that can make an occasion most memorable."

So, if you are looking for amazing hand painted stationary, be sure to head over to Momental Designs.

Linens - BBJ

Can I tell you how much I adore BBJ Linen? The linens are TOP OF THE LINE and they have ALOT of linens. Go to their website and you will see what I mean. The easy to use design center allows you to create a look using table linens, napkins,etc. Not creative? Not to worry , they also have an event page with TONS of past events. Jesse Vogel is the rep for the Indy area. He is the BEST! We are honored to feature their linens on the e-vents tablescapes at the BRIDAL SHOW 2009.Here is a bit from their website:Relationships. We all have them. And we have all built them. Sometimes on purpose, and sometimes by chance. Like the early relationship between the founding partners of BBJ Linen, Judy Goldberg and Bonnie Dannen, whose friendship in college turned into a successful Chicago-area business. Along with Bill Pry, whose additional design and skills rounded out an exceptional team – the company was built through trust, communication and a commitment to relationships. Since 1983, BBJ has grown into one of the leading specialty linen rental companies in the United States.This commitment is carried out through all of our 16 fully-staffed regional showrooms and 8 home-based sales managers. Together, they house more than 70 sales and customer service representatives with diverse backgrounds in our sister industries of hospitality and catering, event design and production, floral artistry, marketing and facility management. In addition, a trio of regional warehouses support a rental inventory in excess of one million items.Recently one of the owners found hand written orders from the archives, for several weeks during the first year of operation. It is amazing to see how far the company has grown – all the technology and industry success that has occurred in the past two decades. However, the most significant fact is that all the companies listed (unless they are no longer in business) are still working with BBJ today!BBJ LINEN is proud of our many long-term friends and clients throughout the country. Relationship is the basis of our language. And the key to our success. May you find in our products and service just how much pleasure we take in being a resource to you.

"Brides Against Breast Cancer" Charity Bridal Gown Sale hits Indy

"Brides Against Breast Cancer™"Charity Bridal Gown Sale

Area Brides Help Make Wishes Come True
Benefiting Victims of Terminal Breast Cancer


Indianapolis, IN – April 17 & 18


The Making Memories Breast Cancer Foundation™, a non-profit organization dedicated to granting last wishes for women and men suffering from metastatic stage IV breast cancer, has received thousands of wedding gowns for its “Brides Against Breast Cancer™” Nationwide Tour of Gowns sales. On April 17 & 18, this tour comes to Indianapolis, IN with sizes for the “bride-to-be” ranging from 2 to 44. This grand and beautiful collection includes well-known designers and couture gowns. A selection of tiaras, veils, crinolines and other accessories will also be available.

Affordable
Everyone is concerned about the economy, his or her job and only spending money where necessary. Yet, if a wedding dress is a “must” for a bride, then with gowns marked down 40% to 75% below traditional salon prices, attending this sale is also a “must”. Helping Brides find that one-single-perfect-gown while staying within their budget, also helps us fulfill our mission to offer life-saving breast cancer education while granting wishes to those individuals who are losing their battle against breast cancer. Prices range from $99 to $799 for values to $3,500. The collection includes a selection of Designer and Couture bridals valued up to $8,000 and priced $2,499 or below.

Power Hours
Making Memories will host special Morning Hours where a $20 admission offers brides-to-be the opportunity for a “sneak peak” to try on and purchase the gown of their dreams on Friday from 10 am - noon. “Power Hours” require advanced registration, space is limited, reserve your tickets today!
Visit: http://www.eventbrite.com/event/303442605 for VIP Registration.
Visit: http://www.makingmemories.org/ for general information and details.

Location
Emmis Communications Lobby
40 Monument Circle
Indianapolis, IN 46204

Hours
Power Hours, Friday, April 17, 10 am - 12 pm
Friday, General Sale, 12 - 8 pm
Saturday, April 18, 10 am – 6 pm



Payment
Cash and Credit Cards are welcome. General Admission is FREE.

Foundation Known Nationwide; Honored by Oprah and Others
The Making Memories Breast Cancer Foundation™ and its endeavors have received national coverage from Oprah, MSNBC, Redbook, Martha Stewart Weddings, Newsweek, Woman’s Day, Shape magazine and more.

Despite significant advances in research, Breast Cancer remains the number one cancer killer of women between the ages of 15 and 54, leaving thousands of small children without mothers and young husbands to raise families alone. Breast cancer touches most everyone, whether personally or through a friend or family member. Currently, there are 2.8 million women diagnosed with breast cancer in America with numbers increasing rapidly.

Press Events
Pre-show interviews are available with our Tour Director. Please call Brenda Chovanak at 425.241.2823 or Tammy Adams at 971.255.3332 for scheduling or send information request to tammy@makingmemories.org. We invite reporters and photographers to attend. Live coverage is encouraged throughout the event; if possible, please call ahead for scheduling.


Making Memories Breast Cancer Foundation is a recognized non-profit organization under section 501 (c) (3)of the Internal Revenue Code. For more information, please visit our website at http://www.makingmemories.org/or call 503.491.8091.

Daily Candy Weddings launches

One of my favorite websites, Daily Candy, now offers Daily Candy weddings. I have been a HUGE fan of Daily Candy Chicago, New York, Dallas and London - especially when we are visiting those areas .

Daily Candy is a free daily e-mail newsletter and website that informs it's readers of the latest and greatest things in fashion, arts, lifestyle, beauty and food. Their wedding edition is a MUST for all brides. They offer all sorts of sweepstakes and TONS of helpful wedding information . Visit here to sign up for the newsletter and here to sign up to win wonderful wedding prizes. Currently they are offering a chance to win a wedding dress from Saks and The Perfect Honeymoon compliments of JetBlue.

Wedding Dress Trends 2009 and 2010

What's new in the world of wedding dresses? I am so glad you asked! There is so much going on this season and next. Many are definitely trend setters, but don't be afraid to go for the traditional look if that is your style. It's all about what makes you feel good and look good on your special day.

Here is a glimpse of wedding dress styles some of this and next years brides can expect:

• POCKETS - Love, love love this! No need for a purse (unless you MUST have one) when you can keep your lipstick/gloss, hanky etc. in your pockets.
• One shoulder dresses - Want to show off your toned arms a la First Lady Michelle Obama? Opt for one of these pretty numbers. These dresses are gorgeous for destination weddings.
• High hemlines - Not one who wants a billowy, full skirt? Many brides today are choosing tea length and shorter gowns. This could also be an excellent selection for the bride who wants BOTH. Wear the full skirt to the ceremony and change into a shorter dress for the reception.

Photo credits: Top - Vineyard Collection www.brides.com

Bottom - J Crew www.jcrew.com

Especially for the Groom ..... The Grooms Guide

Grooms: Does it seem like everything is all about the bride? Need to special attention for your self and help with your groomsmen? Well, the Indy market has something just for you.... The Grooms Guide. My dear friend, Shaune Shelby, created the Grooms Guide while living in Virginia. He relocated back to Indy and is now ready to offer the services here. I can not wait to team up with him. I'll feature more about the company and a bio of Shaune later this month.

In the meantime, I'll share a few things that every groom can do during the planning stages:

• TASTINGS - This may be obvious, but a favorite among most grooms I know.
• RENT OR BUY - If you attend a lot of formal functions, this could be an excellent time to purchase a tuxedo. Just be sure to lean towards the traditional. My husband purchased his for our wedding 9 years ago and still wears it to this day. You can jazz it up by using different ties and cumberbunds throughout the years.
• PLAN THE HONEYMOON - This can be so much fun. You find the spots and you both can decide.
• MUSIC - Be sure your favorites are represented. This can also be very fun....a trip down memory lane as you choose your songs.

Most of all, enjoy this time with your future bride planning YOUR wedding. Be sure to visit daily for our blog on the Grooms Guide!

Have a LOVE-ly day!

New website

We are so excited here at e-vents! Why? We have a new website that is just about ready to launch. I can not wait to share with you as soon as it launches. Keep an eye out here for updates!

FRIDAY FAVE - Peonies

Oh, how I adore peonies (paeonia) - the state flower of Indiana. These beautiful flowers remind me of cotton candy - pink cotton candy. All fluffy and full of beauty. Haven't tasted one yet - so, I can't comment on whether it is as sweet as cotton candy.

The flowers are a great option for the late May or early June wedding when they are in bloom. The peony is especially beautiful when used in Chinese or Victorian themed weddings. The fragrance of the flower is much like that of a rose - only a bit stronger. Peonies are a great floral to use for weddings as you can use a few and create a wonderful impact in your decor. They are grown mostly as ornamental plants and can be seen all over Indiana in the spring. Be careful though - they are a major attraction for ants. This is because of the nectar that forms on the outside of the buds. If you are a DIY bride, make sure to dip each flower head into a bucket of cool water long enough to kill the ants. Then, let the flower heads dry for at least an hour in an shady spot. Who needs a bunch of uninvited guests at your wedding - right?

Photo credit: http://www.mustloveweddings.com/

THE INDY AREA VENDOR SHOWCASE - BRIDAL SHOW 2009 pictures

Thanks to Jessica Limeberry from lemongrass photography for these awesome shots from THE Indy Area Vendor Showcase - BRIDAL SHOW 2009.

The show was so much fun to plan. We had some of the areas finest vendors and many wonderful brides. Many vendors made connections with Indianapolis brides as well as other vendors. We joked that maybe it should be called the vendors networking event as well!

Here is a sampling of photos. I hope you enjoy!

Entertaining with a Flair

Dining Divas

Heavenly Sweets

Bridal Beauty by Blush

More pics soon!

Beautiful and delicious cakes

Most people attending a wedding are waiting for the two main attractions: the wedding dress and the wedding cake. While guests can only look at (ok and maybe touch) the dress, everyone can partake in the beauty AND the taste of a wedding cake. What good is a beautiful wedding cake if it doesn't taste good? Most cakes like the ones pictured above can be costly and not in every ones budget. However, there are ways you can save on the cost of your cake.

• Be a square - square cakes tend to yield more servings than traditional round cakes.
• Keep it fresh - instead of the gorgeous handmade florals and decorations, opt for fresh seasonal florals and even fruits to decorate your cake.
• Keep designs to a minimum - Swiss dots look beautiful on a cake and don't cost nearly as much as more intricate designs.
• Dummy up - Have your baker create a smaller decorated cake for display and then bake several sheet cakes for serving. Slices can be cut in the prep room and your guests will never know.
• Choose one flavor. Often brides want several different flavors. This can be extremely expensive in some cases.

Cakes by Ron Ben-Israel from InStyle weddings

The Villa Inn ~ Restaurant ~ Spa

I had the pleasure of an invitation to lunch and a site tour of The Villa Inn this past Saturday from Shawn Annandale- general manager. I was thrilled to see what they had to offer bridal party guests. My husband and I had the chance to experience the Inn a few years ago. I was curious to see what had changed.

Mr. Annandale was the charming host and shared his background and how he came to The Villa Inn during lunch. Quite the interesting story!

The Inn has a wonderful history - It was designed by Herbert W. Foltz and modeled after a Florentine villa seen by the builder, William J. Reid and his wife, on a trip to Italy. You can view more of the history here.

For lunch, I had the Wild Mushroom Bruschetta and Mixed Field Greens salad - superb! My husband had the Salmon Cucumber Coulis, rosemary potatoes and garlic broccoli. He was equally impressed with his selection.

The last time we were there, there were two dining rooms. They have since converted one into a salon. The original hardwood floors and upholstered antique chairs (which by the way have been converted to salon chairs) add to the charm of the room.

The spa was as wonderful as I remember. In fact, I had one of my best Hot Stone massages there a few years back.

The Villa is a wonderful place to host your rehearsal dinner, a place for the brides attendants to spend the night and prepare for the wedding day as well as a great place to stay the night of your wedding! They also can accommodate small meetings.
Location
1456 N Delaware St

Indianapolis, IN 46202

phone 317.916.8500

fax 317.917.9086

toll free 866.639.9550

http://www.thevillainn.com/