Bridesmaid Dresses....

J Crew Bridesmaid Dress Selections

Oprah

This is a completely personal post, but I have to share. I am going to be in the Oprah Winfrey audience in October! I am beyond thrilled. Some of you may remember that I was also in the audience many, many years ago. It was an awesome experience and I have always wanted to go back. This time I am along with three of my friends. I absolutely LOVE the new way they allow guests to register. Instead of the old way of phoning in and getting a busy signal or worst yet the dreaded " All circuits are busy" message, audience hopefuls have a much better way to get tickets. it is actually rather easy. Go to the website - register - go to the audience reservation section. You will then see a message telling you the status of audience reservations ( we are taking reservations or check back later). If they are indeed taking reservations, you will have a limited period in which to sign up. You are able to sign up for any show during that month which is on the list. 24 hours after the registration period closes, you will receive notification of your status. You will either receive a "Sorry, next time." email or a "You have been accepted" email. I have had both. Thankfully, this time I received the latter. You can get more detailed information here.

My three girlfriends and I will be attending the later taping of the day. We don't know what the show will be about. We did receive a detailed list of instructions.

Oprah's studio audiences are known to be THE best dressed studio audiences. Now, we need to decide what to wear!

Bridal Hair with ....................

As a bride, I am sure you have a million questions - ranging from invitations to flowers to HAIR. What do you do with your hair on your wedding day? What if it's humid? Should I do an updo? How do I place my veil? This is were professional expertise comes in. Julie Hill from Imagine Three is just the person you need! Julie and her sisters own Imagine Three. Here is a bit from their website:

Imagine three strong-willed women collaborating, utilizing their talents, and producing pure bliss. Together, we possess unique talents that are used together and complement one another. We can either work together or work separately to provide you with the perfect service.

Imagine Three provides three professional services: photography, cosmetic artistry, and hairstyling. Our services range from weddings to formal events, photo shoots, portfolios, and senior pictures. Imagine it, dream it; we can do it.

Imagine Three photography also provides services for studio portrait sessions, weddings, and other events, as well as on-site sessions for groups or individuals.

From Julie Hill:
"I have been dedicated to the art of hairdressing for 16 years. My desire is to find everyone’s individual beauty and bring it to its full potential. When I’m creating, everything I do is thoughtful and with purpose. Inspiration is everywhere; for every color I use and every curl I place there is a reason and an inspiration behind it.

Over the years, I have built my talent through education, mentorship, and learning from others, and from that I continue to grow, learn each day, and keep my passion alive. I have been truly blessed with a gift that I am very lucky to have and am even happier to share. My goal is to make a woman feel wonderful about herself and create something just for her; as a result, I feel I am in the business of making people happy and beautiful. "


You don't want to miss Julie's presentation in Indianapolis on October 25th at BRIDAL BOUTIQUE a wedding workshop. She will have models displaying updo styles as well as teach you how to place bridal veils.

You will also have a chance to purchase THE BLISS BOOK. Bliss is an inspirational guide for brides, stylists, and women of all ages. If you're looking for a style for your formal event or your wedding, this is your source. If you're a stylist, this is the perfect "look book" for inspiration as well as a guide for your clients. Each page is simple; the styles are thoughtful, up-to-date, and focus only on the hair and make-up. Each style is classic and offers a wide range of looks for your next event.

Bliss is printed as a soft cover book and with over 150 pages and 80 hairstyles to choose from. Bliss is the new age of "look books," and we proudly present it to you.

Meet Jesse Carruthers - JC Disc Jockey Service

Hi readers! Today it is my pleasure to have Jesse Carruthers from JC Disc Jockey Service as our special guest. His company is located in Indianapolis and you can access his web page for more contact info at the link above. Be sure to register for the BRIDAL BOUTIQUE LUNCHEON on October 25th, 2009 at the Hilton Garden Inn- Indianapolis NW to hear Jesse share his expertise!

From his website:

"At JC Disc Jockey, we're listening! You want someone with personality and experience that will keep the reception fun, on schedule and memorable! We provide our clients with music customized for your style and mood of your reception. We take care of all the emcee duties throughout your reception and professionally guide you through the evening without distracting you from your guests. At JC Disc Jockey we want it to be your way."

Mr.Carruthers has graciously offered to answer a few questions for you.

Tell us a little bit about JC Disc Jockey Service- what services do you offer? JC DJ SVC is a full service mobile DJ business. By mobile meaning, we bring the party to you, equipment, lights, mics and music. We offer our clients the opportunity to create their own music play list with our online music library. It's optional, but very useful to our on the go and clients and those who live out of state. We also offer pre event planning (reception only) and if the reception and ceremony are at the same location but different rooms we'll provide a second system at no additional charge.

Why did you decide to start JC Disc Jockey Service? I started my business because I wanted to share my style of playing music with others so they would leave the event with a feeling they've never felt when it comes to music.


What do you enjoy most about your job? Seeing my customers smiling, having a good time and referrals from them.


What qualities should a couple look for when hiring their disc jockey? Experience, personality, appearance, attention to detail and references.


What has been the highlight of your career to date? Returning clients, more bookings each year and knowing that my advertising is working.


Some advise for Brides-to-be? When choosing a DJ, if the price sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Ask to view the DJ in action if possible. Cutting corners isn't always wise. Ask for references.

Thanks for stopping by, Jesse! We look forwarding to seeing you soon.

Volunteers at your wedding....

You have announced your engagement to everyone and now the offers for assistance are pouring in. Uncle Joe loves taking pictures and does a great job capturing the family reunion, but he's not a professional. Cousin Mary has a friend from work who is a wonderful cook, but she's not a professional. Donnie DJ knows how to pick a great dance song, but he is not a professional. Everyone means well. Really, they do. Usually, their intent is to save you money. You think it's a great idea UNTIL......... someone can't make the wedding (you name the reason), you find out your "DJ" is afraid to make announcements, your "caterer" only has crock pots to keep the food warm and no assistants and your "photographer's" finger is in just about every picture he has taken of your wedding day. Believe me, I have heard horror stories like these and many more.

It is so important to hire professional wedding vendors - with references - for your big day. Be sure to do your research and interview, interview, interview!

Ask questions - who will do my wedding in the event something happens to you?, do you have a contract, may I see pictures of your most recent work?, references from recent brides?

Have a LOVE-ly day!

Erika

Photo Credit: Goldberg Photography, Indianapolis

Cc Elaine Bride Chic - Caren Lewis

"For The Modern Bride Who Dares To Be Different"
The Bride Chic Bride is modern and aware. She has a definite sense of style. She is all about expressing herself.
Are you:
HAVING A HARD TIME FINDING THE "RIGHT DRESS" FOR YOUR WEDDING?
THINKING OF DRIVING 2 ½ TO 4 HOURS IN HOPES OF FINDING A BETTER SELECTION OF DESIGNER GOWNS?
WELL LOOK NO FURTHER!
YOU decide how your gown will look.
Cc. elaine Salon Bride Chic covers the whole spectrum of the gown selection process. We offer EVERY BRIDE the opportunity to have a couture garment along with the movie star treatment. We can accommodate even the most discriminating bride.
Not your traditional retail establishment, Salon Bride Chic is an experience. Nestled away inside of the Historic Emrich's Furniture Building; our Shabby Chic environment is sure to evoke emotion and inspire you to dream big.
Each bride is met with our undivided attention and the privacy of the entire salon is yours while you meet one-on-one with award winning designer Cc.elaine, who will interpret your vision and design the gown of your dreams.
For Your Custom Designed Bridal Wear & Accessories Call (317) 638-CHIC or visit www.ccelaine.com.

Cc Elaine will be a featured speaker at the Bridal Boutique Luncheon - a wedding workshop in Indianapolis, Indiana on October 25th, 2009.
More information and register here.

What's the Buzz...........

BRIDAL BOUTIQUE LUNCHEON - a wedding workshop

Join us at this special BRIDAL BOUTIQUE - wedding workshop for expert advice from area wedding professionals. Brides will hear advice on photography, makeup and hair, wedding attire, wedding etiquette, invitations, videography, wedding cakes, reception entertainment, wedding decor, honeymoon planning and much more.
GetMarried.com swag bags full of goodies. Door prizes - Hotel stay at the Hilton Garden Inn - Indianapolis NW, SILVER PACKAGE {month of} wedding package from e-vents: a wedding and event planning boutique, Urban Element Restaurant, Harry & Izzy's, an autographed copy of Colin Cowie's book - Wedding Chic to name a few!


Brides will view the brand new Hilton Garden Inn - Indianapolis NW and enjoy a wonderful lunch catered by the hotel. Dessert? Wedding cake of course!

Need wedding design inspiration? The luncheon tables will be decorated by Erika Gregory, e-vents: a wedding and event planning boutique with floral decor by A Bride's Choice Florist and linens from A Classic Party Rental.

Participating Vendors:

Amanda Wilcher Photographers

A Brides Choice Florist

Roger Muller Videography

Cc Elaine Bride Chic (Bridal Gowns)

JC Disc Jockey

Ten:Thirteen Design (wedding stationery)

Beauty by Crystal

Amy Lee Martin, Fitness Expert

Cater it Simple - wedding cakes

Imagine 3 Hair

The Bliss Book

Bea Soriano, bride to be

Hilton Garden Inn - Indianapolis NW

and many more.........



Not able to attend the luncheon? Not to worry......you can visit the vendor(speakers from the workshop and others) booths after the workshop.

When:Sunday, October 25, 2009
Time: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM (ET)
Where:Hilton Garden Inn - Indianapolis Northwest
6930 Intech Boulevard
Indianapolis, 46278

Register at http://www.bridalboutique.eventbrite.com/

Bridal Fitness - Amy Lee Martin

You may wonder when you will have the time for working out with all of the wedding planning you have going on - right? One tip I have is to incorporate your wedding planning with your workout. How? One way is to schedule dance lessons for you and your fiance. Dancing is a wonderful workout. Not only will you learn some awesome dance moves for your wedding day, you'll also relieve stress and burn calories.
Need a motivator? Team up with a friend - someone who will help you get to the gym or out for a walk.

Need more advice from a pro? I would like to introduce Amy Lee Martin to you!

Amy Lee Martin
IFBB Professional Figure Athlete; Nutritional & Training Coach, Fitness Model

Amy has always considered health and fitness a big part of her life. Growing up she excelled in gymnastics, cross-country and track and field. After organized sports Amy began leading group fitness; teaching classes like step, bootcamp as well as strength and resistance programs. Seeking new challenges Amy began competing in NPC figure competitions. Competing only briefly as an amateur Amy earned her IFBB professional status in July 2008 at the USA Championships in Las Vegas, NV. Amy is joined by her husband Doug Martin who shares the same strong background experience in fitness, training and nutrition. Together they are determined to help empower women to achieve their fitness goals. Amy and Doug are available to provide fitness tips, training advice and designing individual nutritional plans. More information can be found by visiting www.amyleemartin.com

*Amy has been published nationally in Oxygen Magazine, Iron Man Magazine, and NPC News Magazine; locally in Indy.com

Be on the lookout for special Bridal Bootcamps from Amy coming soon!
Indiana area Brides can hear and meet Amy at the Bridal Boutique Luncheon - a wedding workshop on Oct. 25th. Register here!

I am pleased to have Jackie Bilskie, owner and designer of Ten:Thirteen Design as our featured Stationer at Bridal Boutique Luncheon - a wedding workshop on October 25th.

Jackie offers her clients customized invitation suites with careful attention to every detail. Not just invitations - program, menu cards, response cards and so much more. I love the fact that the name of her company is the date of her wedding!

From the website:

"What makes your company different?
There are numerous invitation shops, both online and off, who claim they will give you a "custom" product. It can be very overwhelming. Typically, their version of custom means that you pick out the design from a set of predesigned invitations, and they'll print your name, date and location. This is not the personal touch that most couples are looking for.

My work is completely personalized for the bride
and groom. They are built from scratch based upon the details provided (colors, themes, flowers, locations, etc.) and our discussions. I work closely with each couple to make sure that their vision is carried throughout the design."


Ten:Thirteen Design will be a featured speaker at our Bridal Boutique - offering brides helpful tips on selecting your wedding stationery. Afterwards, spend some time at her booth and see the wonderful designs she has created. You will not be disappointed.

Be sure to register here for the Bridal Boutique!

GetMarried.com - Gorgeous Gowns

Gorgeous Gown Trends This Season

a post by GetMarried.com

We love speaking with Kleinfeld’s fabulous Fashion Director, Randy Fenoli. He meets with almost 15,000 brides a year in Kleinfeld’s 35,000 square foot luxurious flagship store in Manhattan. He is dedicated to helping brides find their perfect dress. Randy fills us in on all the hot gown styles this season!


Q: Tell us about the 50's inspired trend in gowns.
R: A lot of designers this season have definitely been influenced by fashion from the 1950’s which started with the “New Look” introduced by Christian Dior. Strapless boned bodices, natural waists, and full ballgown skirts are back in bridal fashion! Designers are using lighter fabrics like silk taffeta, organza, and even tulle. They really look like something Grace Kelly would have worn. And what bride doesn’t want to look like Grace Kelly on her wedding day!


Q: Three-dimensional texture is big this season. What do we need to know about this trend?
R: Whether it’s three-dimensional embroidery, shredded fabrics, or layers upon layers of ruffles, brides today love this light and airy textural look that gives interest and movement to their gown.


Q: The destination wedding gown is also popular. What kind of gowns can we expect to see in this category?
R: With airfares so cheap, couples are choosing exotic locations to say I do! A destination wedding can be held anywhere… from a beach in the Caribbean to an intimate gathering in a vineyard or a formal setting overlooking the Grand Canyon. Today, destination gowns are not just your simple chiffon sheath. One of my brides was proposed to in Arizona so she decided to have her ceremony on the cliffs overlooking the majestic Grand Canyon. Even though it’s an outdoor setting and the bride is 41 years old, it’s still her first wedding and she’s wearing that big beaded ball gown she’s always dreamed of!


Q: Tell us more about the one-shoulder looks.
R: First spotted on supermodels like Kate Moss, the one-shoulder dress quickly spread to the red carpet at the Academy Awards, and then to the runways of the bridal fashion shows. Who can forget the First Lady Michelle O’Bama dancing with the President in her one-shouldered gown at the inauguration ball?! It is a very hot trend now.


Q: And last – the BLING trend!
R: Every bride wants to shine on her wedding day, and designers are answering the call with gowns encrusted with jewels, rhinestones, and tons of sparkling Swarovski crystals! Some brides are wearing headpieces with bling as well.

Get Married

We are so pleased to partner with the awesome team from Get Married and GetMarried.com on some wonderful things for our Indiana area brides! I had two wonderful conversations with Sandie Ivers and Wendy of GetMarried today.

I am honored to partner with them on the Bridal Boutique wedding workshops and luncheons presented by e-vents: a wedding and event planning boutique.

In addition - we are very happy to feature a monthly blog column from the fine folks at GetMarried.com right here on the e-vents blog!

Thanks to GetMarried.com and Get Married for your continued support.

Sandie - I can not wait to meet you at the ABC conference in Indianapolis in November!

Brides - don't forget to request your FREE copy of their magazine here - which is scheduled for distribution on October 1st, 2009. You may also get a copy at the October 25th Bridal Boutique at the Hilton Garden Inn - Indianapolis NW.

Bridesmaids Gifts

Looking for something a little more creative than your average bridesmaids gift? Or are you just looking for a great additional thank you gift?

These great little makeup bags from Bagette are WONDERFUL. These little cutest can be personalized with your photos. Why not find an old picture for one side and a current picture for the other side. They come in a variety of sizes and are very reasonably priced.What a wonderful way to celebrate your friendship. Your bridesmaids will LOVE this gift.

Birdcage Veils

I wrote about various veils a few posts ago. When I sa these wonderful photos of Birdcage veils photographed by Carla Ten Eyck, I just had to share! Thanks to my wedding friend, Candice Dowling Coppola of Jubilee Events for sharing with me.

Wedding Cake

I have had the wonderful pleasure of meeting Debi Brim from Cater it Simple located in Indianapolis, Indiana. Debi and her company, Cater it Simple, participated in our Bridal Boutique - a wedding workshop at Goldberg Photography Studios recently.

Debi has been in the wedding business for over 30 years and she readily shares her knowledge with brides. Her blog is a wealth of practical knowledge from "How to cut your wedding cake" to "Contracts for wedding cakes". Her cakes are wonderfully moist and delicious. You absolutely must visit her blog and sign up for her newsletter.

Check back later this week for more information on choosing your wedding cake!