HAPPY ANNIVERSARY, HOLLY & WILL

THE COLOR OF LOVE

The Color Of Love: Red is the symbolic color of Valentine’s Day. But, whether you choose to marry on the holiday or not, incorporate this look into your day!

Valentine’s Day might be the most “commercially” romantic day of the year, but my guess is if you plan to wed in 2010 then your date takes the cake. So while you might not say “I Do” on this banner date, what if you want to incorporate hints of the holiday into your big day?

Red is not only the symbolic color of Valentine’s Day but certainly the most romantic color in the bridal palette, representing love in many languages. But the color can be overused and oversaturated at an event, so use it accordingly (and sparingly in some places) and your wedding day look will be engrained in guests’ minds for decades to come.

Before you accent your bouquet with Black Magic roses, consider all the options - you’d be surprised at just how many are out there.

Black Baccara
This rose is as close to black as you can get and as the bloom opens, the color extends from black to a deep blueberry and burgundy. Velvety in texture, this rose stands out – but beware, not for the faint of heart.

Black Beauty
There is really something alluring about near black buds. This hybrid rose is slightly smaller than the ‘Black Baccara’. An all around dark burgundy, sought after for its unique beauty.


Black Magic
Black Magic roses are a deep, deep red (think Ashlee Simpson’s wedding). Place these beauties next to Baccara and Beauty roses, and you can see that they are the lightest of the three, but a valid member of the dark rose family. If you love the idea of a mysterious ambiance but aren’t quite head over heels for something too dark, this is your flower.


Ruby Red
A cluster-like bloom of cheerful cherry red. This rose takes the cake if you want to celebrate with color, but still want that romantic rouge.

Cherry Parfait
Swirls of white petals with a broad cherry-red edge are sweet and delicate. Spring has sprung with these little ones!

Chrysler Imperial
This stunning beauty captivates people with a powerful rich rose fragrance matched with velvety red petals. Large headed full flowers are supported by straight stems and paired with dark matte-green leaves.



Hot Chocolate
These warm chocolate burnt-red and orange blooms grow in clusters and look fabulous in low and lush arrangements. Large and loose, they repeatedly flower throughout the year to compliment a romantic summer night gathering or a winter wedding. Almost good enough to eat – ahh, but most rose varieties are edible!

Lavaglut
Large overflowing clusters of deep velvety red seem to continually 'erupt' from a background of smooth green leaves, creating a look that is sure to wow!


Lover’s Lane
Even though the color is deeply saturated, this bloom is surprisingly bright thanks to its lightly colored reverse side. A striking example of the classic garden rose. Pluck in the earlier stage of blossoming to enjoy as it opens and settles into a stunning end result.

Scentimental
Uncommonly lovely, this is an absolutely unique rose. Its checkered red and white petals are one of a kind. Some are burgundy with white splashes and others cream and red combinations. Very little excess foliage allows for a rightful central focus.

Altissimo
A darling little bud of a flower, long lasting and single-petaled, consists of a cherry red hue with a yellow center. A very summery flower, perfect for the mason jar wedding or outdoor summer celebration.


These are just a select few of the coveted red rose varieties. With hundreds of other variations, including the Amore, Happy Hour, Temptation, Red Corvette, Rodeo, El Toro, Valentine, and Cherry Lady; sweethearts’ wedding options are truly endless.


“That which we call a rose; by any other name would smell as sweet.” – Shakespeare
 
 

 

Thanks to our friends from GetMarried.com for this post.....

Be sure to visit their website for more fabulous information. Are you watching the Get Married TV Show?
You should - it has tons of helpful hints for planning your wedding. Don't forget the Get Married magazine!  All e-vents: a wedding and event planning boutique brides ALWAYS receive the latest copy......

Paloma's Nest

Every bride I know wants to find the perfect gift for the attendants, hostesses, etc. in their wedding.  You want something unique - not the typical gifts. You want something handcrafted. You want something GORGEOUS. Then, I would suggest you head straight over to Paloma's Nest and peruse her lovely assortment of handcrafted ceramic bowls and other items. I fell in LOVE with the bowls when I first saw the ring bearer bowl. What a special and different way to have your ring bearer carry your rings to the alter. Later you can use the bowl as jewelery holder on your dresser. I then started seeing her other lovely creations and thought these would be perfect girlfriend gifts!  Best? You can get them customized! Maybe you and your friends share a special word  or special song- use it on the bowl........  Trust me, they will adore you.

KISS & TELL

One of Indy's finest makeup artist, Crystal Haffner of Beauty by Crystal, is hosting this super fun event to get your lips in tip top kissing shape for Valentine's Day!

When: Friday, February 12th  and Saturday, February 13, 2010

Where: Splash Salon

What: Lip Treatment make-up application

Cost: $35  - but wait, bring a friend who isn't a client already and receive a FREE lipstick!

Appointments ONLY.........

There are only 12 spots - so, make sure you call 317.340.4269 or email crystal@beautybycrystal.net  right away!

A bit about Crystal from her website:

Crystal got her start in make-up artistry while completing her degree at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles, California in 2000. Quickly gaining experience on Rodeo Drive with many luxury lines at Barney’s and Nieman Marcus, she took a job with Christian Dior in Chicago as traveling make-up artist for all Marshall Fields accounts. Upon her relocation to Indianapolis, Crystal kept her artistry honed as a freelancer. Her love for make-up then took her to Saks Fifth Avenue where she excelled as a sales consultant and artist for a make-up and skin care line. After her husband and she had their first son, Crystal formed Beauty by Crystal in the summer of 2005 and began doing what she loves as a full-time artist (and full-time mommy) in Indianapolis. With the experience of having worked with every major make-up and skin care line in the world, every skin color and skin type, you’ll find that Beauty by Crystal provides unparalleled skill and responsible pricing for in-home consultations, formal occasions, master classes, high fashion, runway, commercial and bridal make-up artistry needs. Some of Crystal's most recent clients have been the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, ESPN, FFA, and NCAA.

Let them Eat Cake..........................

One of the best things about planning your wedding is the cake tasting. The thought of tasting tons of sugary, moist, sweetness is a dream come true for most brides and grooms. Do your research and find quality bakers in your area. Check around with other brides, visit bridal shows and check out bakers websites. Many bakers offer special days for brides only - where their shops are closed except for bridal appointments.  Make sure to grab your future groom (trust me - you won't have any problem getting him there) and let the tasting begin.

Many bridal couples have questions about the frosting types. Here's a little help for you.......

Ganache:

A rich creamy chocolate filling made of chocolate and cream, used for confections such as the filling of truffles

Fondant:

An icing made out of gelatin, confectioners sugar and water. A very smooth and maleable icing that dries hard. This icing is also called rolled fondant because it has to be rolled on to cakes.

Buttercream:

The most popular wedding cake icing is made of butter, confectionery sugar and milk.

Ganache Photo Credit: Dessert Deli Bakery
Buttercream Photo Credit:

Weddings by Tara Guerard

Looking for some wonderful wedding inspiration? Then, look no further than Weddings by Tara Guerard.
Many of you may have already experienced Southern Weddings: A New Look at the Old South by Tara Guerard. Her new book will not disappoint you.
From the inside flap:
With impeccable style and taste, premier event designer Tara Guerard takes us on a guided tour through twelve dream weddings. From a formal Southern soiree to an ocean island affair, Tara shares the tools and tricks of the trade she's learned from over a decade of working in the industry. Every chapter imparts fresh information using specific weddings as examples and inspiration.
Tara Guerard is a consummate entertainer and shows readers how they can plan their wedding, with topics ranging from choosing a venue to choosing colors; deciding on hors d'oeuvres, cocktails, or a formal sitdown meal; and decorating the altar, the table, or even the bride's shoes! By carefully selecting themes and masterfully integrating details, you will learn how to make one of life's most important celebrations infinitely memorable.

Beautifully designed pages and vibrant photography bring each wedding abundantly to life in this book that will bring hours of inspiration and pleasure.

Tara Guerard Recognized as the Southeast's premier event designer, Tara Guerard has earned a national reputation for her exceptional ability to create spectacular settings celebrating life's most anticipated occasions.


Clients across the United States- from celebrity hosts to hometown brides-seek out Tara for her signature graciousness infused with a decidedly modern flair. Since opening the doors of Soiree by Tara Guerard in Charleston, South Carolina, over a decade ago, Tara has been noted as a leading arbiter of entertaining and style. In 2005, she was selected as a Top 25 Trendsetter by Modern Bride Magazine. Soiree's work has also been featured by a wide range of media, including Elegant Bride, Food & Wine, Southern Accents, Southern Living, InStyle Weddings, Town & Country Weddings, and Martha Stewart Weddings. One of her events was featured on the Style Network.


In addition to her client work, Tara is a sought-after speaker for national forums on floral and event design. She has appeared before exclusive audiences at venues including the Mint Museum in Charlotte, North Carolina, Nashville Lifestyles magazine's "Bridal Ball," and the Walters Museum in Baltimore, Maryland. Tara lives in Charleston with her husband, Russell, and their young sons, Aiken and Myers. For additional information and to view a selection of Tara's events, please visit www.soireebytaraguerard.com.


Liz Banfield An accomplished editorial photographer, Liz Banfield's images can be seen in Martha Stewart Weddings, Elegant Bride, InStyle Weddings, Town & Country Weddings, Real Simple Family, Southern Accents, and Country Living. She travels the globe shooting fabulous weddings for stylish clients, and lifestyle images for clients like Target, where her photographs are displayed in stores worldwide. At home she enjoys documenting the lives of her two young children, Grier and Charlotte.

Be sure to get your copy today......As always, e-vents: a wedding and event planning boutique brides may borrow the book from our wedding library!

Crate and Barrel Wedding Party in Indianapolis

http://www.crateandbarrel.com/

When:  Every Sunday in February  (February 7th is booked)

Time: 9am  - 11am

What:  A private party for Brides featuring coffee, breakfast items, mimosas, presentations, demos, tour of the store and a SPECIAL GIFT just for YOU!!!!

R.S.V.P to 317.818.9900  - Tell them Erika from e-vents sent you!

The Solemates High Heelers

I am reposting this because today, I lost a heel cap. Why? because I wasn't wearing my trusty Solemates guards.........

I found these fantastic items while reading An Atlanta Brides blog. I only wish I had known about these when my office was downtown and I had to maneuver around grates and the sidewalks literally CHEWED up my heels. Mind you, I am sure Tony from CENTO Shoes didn't mind. Anyway, getting back to the subject of this post....SOLEMATES High Heelers. These cute little things protect your heels from city grates, cracks and sidewalks. They also are great for outdoor weddings where you may be walking in the grass. They come in clear,white and black. From the website: "By increasing the surface area on the base of the heel, it reduces the pressure on this area and prevents the heel from sinking into grass or falling into cracks! " Becca Brown and Monica Murphy are the brains behind this patented gem of an idea.

HIGH TEA 2010

My first event  that I planned  and made me realize I wanted to start my own company was a tea party. We actually called it a HIGH TEA (and still do) even though what we are enjoying is AFTERNOON TEA. 
HIGH TEA defined ..............
This British tradition is a late-afternoon or early evening meal, usually quite substantial. It originated in the 19th century as a simple, early workingman's supper. High tea can be served buffet-style or set on a table. It includes a variety of dishes such as cornish pasties, welsh rabbit, scotch woodcock and various other meat and fish dishes. Also included are plenty of buns, crumpets, biscuits and jams, as well as an elaborate array of cakes and pastries and, of course, steaming pots of hot tea. (from Answers.com)

AFTERNOON TEA defined...........
Afternoon tea (because it was usually taken in the late afternoon) is also called "low tea" because it was usually taken in a sitting room or withdrawing room where low tables (like a coffee table) were placed near sofas or chairs generally in a large withdrawing room. (from WhatsCookingAmerica.net)

This is the 10th year anniversary for our annual High Tea here in Indianapolis at the historic Canterbury Hotel. Jame Thompson, catering manager for the Canterbury Hotel has assured us this one will be the BEST ever.

My friend and fellow wedding planner, Kelly McWilliams of Weddings by Socialites is hosting a Mothers Tea Party in sunny Florida. I think this is a brilliant idea! How fun to host a vintage tea party for your bridesmaids luncheon? The vintage photo is  from another fellow planner, Aletha Vandermaas of Pearls Events, blog.  She's featuring the Tea Party as a Bridal Shower option. Don't you love it????

I also love this idea as a way to celebrate Mothers Day. Grab your best hat and gloves and a few girlfriends and enjoy a spot of tea - English style!

Photos: Kelly McWilliams, Weddings by Socialites
and Aletha Vandermaas, Pearls Events

The Perfect Gift for Your Perfect Guy....................

You've been racking your brain, checking out the web and asking everyone what to get your new husband for a wedding day gift. Why not give him some boudoir photos? This hot trend has really taken off lately and as you can see they are sizzlin' HOT..... Think this may be a little too risque for your taste? Don't worry - you have complete control over how much or how little skin you show. It is super important to find a photographer that you feel comfortable with. This may be your wedding photographer or another one you choose. I love the shots done in hotel rooms. Find a hotel that suits your style and see if you can rent the room for a few hours(make sure you explain what you are doing). Most photographers who have done a lot of boudoir photo sessions will have a list of hotels. So, go find something sexy to wear and let the shooting begin. Trust me - you and your new husband WON'T regret it.

This just in.........

Photo Credit: 1. Erin Hession Photography

                              2. Amanda Wilcher Photographers

How to give a toast.....................................

I found this great piece from www.guyville.com . Enjoy!!!!

I found this great piece from Guyville.com - Enjoy!
At some point during your life you'll have to make a toast. A toast is defined as "something in honor in which persons usually drink." It's also defined as "sliced bread browned on both sides by heat." But let's stick with the first one. (ed. Note: we do not cover 'how to make toast' here)
There are two stages to making a toast.
Making the Toast
First, know the specifics of the event. Is it formal? It is a picnic? Does the toast concern one person or a couple? If you are wearing a bow tie and cumber bun (that big ribbon around your stomach), then you'll want to make the toast more eloquent, as you will no doubt be surrounded by people you may be hitting up for money or interviewing with in the future. If you're outside in casual wear, the toast can be casual. By casual, we don't mean attempting to wing it on the spot. Prepare ahead of time.
Don't sweat creating the toast from scratch. Use part of a famous speech, a poem, a quote or even a portion of a love letter in your toast. Use substantial and meaningful words, and eliminate feeble words like "kinda," "nice" and "awesome." Feel free to use humor in your speech, but if you don't feel particularly funny, don't go for the laugh. It is your job to highlight the honored guest, not to work the room like a lounge act. Stories about the guest of honor make great toast material, but don't tell a tale where you have to be an insider to understand. Remember, entertaining yourself should be your least priority. Another note: embarrassing stories make for great laughs and do make their way into toasts, but there is a thin line between gosh-gollie embarrassment and the story about the stun gun and the pony.
Most importantly, this toast is about the honoree, not about you. Avoid stories where you end up talking about yourself. Keep the "I" rule in mind- keep the amount of I's in your toast to a minimum.
Executing the Toast
Practice giving the toast. Say it a few times until you can give it fluidly. If you are using a notecard, be sure you know if well enough so you can keep going if you lose your place.
Keep it brief. Technically, you are entitled to go on as long as you like, however, the longer you talk, the more chance you have of losing your audience's attention (especially when the open bar is nearby). Some of the most poignant toasts are a single line or two.
Direct your toast toward the guest (or guests) of honor. Speak loudly and slowly so even those in the cheap seats can hear you.

Photo Credit: J. Scott Photography

Calling all brides..............................................

GET MARRIED SEEKS REAL BRIDES FOR ITS NATIONAL WEDDING PROGRAM

Casting call for brides-to-be to appear on Get Married’s show on WE tv

      Get Married’s national wedding program is looking for passionate brides to appear on its television show. Throughout the half-hour program which airs every Saturday at 9:30am ET/PT on WE tv, host Stacie Francombe—Get Married’s CEO and founder—helps brides identify and match their personality with their unique bridal style. Brides are guided through an array of bridal experiences and participate in inspiring challenges with wedding professionals and experts.

Interested brides-to-be are encouraged to apply by visiting www.getmarried.com/omg where additional details are posted. Brides across the country could be saying “OMG! I’m going to be on TV!”

“Get Married’s show is all about the bride. By incorporating real brides in every episode we make a connection with our audience, showing them that every wedding element is attainable regardless of your style,” said Stacie Francombe, CEO and founder of Get Married Media. “Get Married’s show helps brides create the ultimate wedding that reflects their unique and personal style.”

Get Married’s television show on WE tv, a women-centric network dedicated to the wedding genre, is among an audience of brides seeking bright, innovative ideas and inspirations. Available in nearly 74 million homes, WE tv is the premier source for women looking to satisfy their curiosity with fascinating, original stories and entertaining content. The series will also simulcast to an additional three million on Wedding Central, a 24/7 multiplatform, interactive programming service devoted to weddings, dating and romance.

About Get Married Media

Get Married Media, a national, integrated tri-media wedding planning resource that reaches passionate brides on TV (WE tv Saturdays at 9:30am et/pt), online here and in print (Get Married magazine). Get Married connects brides with local and national wedding vendors and industry experts through entertainment and news.

Get Married magazine (circ. 300,000) - the new shopping and trend guide for the savvy bride - moves beyond the traditional ways of delivering a bridal publication - from the newest interactive technology and latest trends in bridal shopping and style to a colorful, fresh voice in the wedding genre. The first issue is FREE in single copy here.

Closely integrated with the TV show and Get Married magazine, the online portal at http://wedding.getmarried.com/ offers brides an interactive experience, including a wedding shop that sells wedding invitations, wedding favors, accessories and products as seen in the magazine, as well as a wedding blog (bloggerbrides.com), video segments from the show, articles, image galleries and wedding planning tools.

Wedding Weekend in Indy

Brides/Grooms be sure to check out the following Bridal Shows happening this weekend in Indianapolis:

January 9 (Saturday) 11:00am-4:00pm - Perfect Wedding Guide Bridal Show, Scottish Rite Cathedral - Indianapolis

January 10 (Sunday) 11:00am-4:00pm - Perfect Wedding Guide Bridal Show, Scottish Rite Cathedral - Indianapolis

and mark your calendar for these upcoming events in January:

January 17 (Sunday) 2:00pm-5:00pm - Winter Bridal Show "Love is in the Air", Montgomery Aviation - Zionsville

January 31 (Sunday) 12:00pm-5:00pm - Here Come the Brides Bridal Show, Crown Plaza at Historic Union Station - Indianapolis

Photo: Brooke and Pedro Photography

Martha Stewart Weddings 15th Year Anniversary

A big congratulations and an even bigger THANKS to Martha Stewart Weddings on their 15th year anniversary! Thanks because I have learned so many wonderful things and have been able to share them with my brides and grooms.  If you haven't already, you MUST go purchase the Anniversary issue of the magazine immediately! It is chock full of wonderful ideas as well as flashbacks of the past 15 years. I think you'll really enjoy the "Our Best Ever GOOD THINGS" feature.  Enjoy browsing thru Aww-Inspiring real weddings. MS Weddings always has the best goodies and you can always download the fabulous clip-art from their website for your own wedding. Some of my favorite downloads have been the daily agenda sheets for destination weddings. These fab sheets are delivered to each guests room (think - cruise sheets) each morning which detail what is happening each day as well as fun things guests can do. 
Little known fact - my very first experience with Martha Stewarts wedding was when I made my sisters small wedding cake from Martha's wedding cake recipe. Trust me when I say I am NO BAKER - love to cook - but BAKE. This cake was both delicious and beautiful. 
What is your favorite Martha thing? I'd love to read about it.
 In the meantime, I'm off to enjoy a wonderful weekend in front of the fireplace with a latte and my MS magazine................