Vote For Us - Best Of Washington

King 5 and Evening Magazine is holding their Best Of Western Washington competition again, and banquetevent.com is nominated in the category of "Best Wedding Planner!"

We need your vote to get us to the top!

Click the link below and look for our icon to vote for banquetevent.com as the top wedding planner and be sure to pass on the link to your friends that also use banquetevent.com to plan their wedding. Be sure to check out the other wedding categories, as many of the businesses and services that are featured on banquetevent.com are also nominated.

Click here to vote now!

Look for our icon (left) to vote for banquetevent.com.






Once you vote, be sure to place your vote in the following additional wedding categories.

Upcoming Wedding Events in the Northwest Benefiting Making Memories Breast Cancer Foundation

Here are two upcoming October wedding events in the Pacific Northwest, both benefiting the Making Memories Breast Cancer Foundation. We encourage you to check them out!

2008 Port Townsend Wedding Show
October 11 & 12


The Port Townsend Wedding Guild is proud to present the 2008 Port Townsend Wedding Show October 11 and 12. The event will take place primarily at two elegant, historic landmarks - the Manresa Castle and the Silverwater Cafe. In addition, show goers are invited to Open Houses and special offerings at a number of unique venues in Port Townsend, including the beautifully restored Chapel Bay with its panoramic views of the City and Sound, complimentary chowder and baked breads aboard the PS Express, and much more!

Brides will be delighted to know they can find everything they need to create the perfect wedding. Featuring “The Best of Port Townsend”, this year’s show is designed to be a fun festival and tour rather than a traditional, convention-style show. If brides are looking for friendly, personalized services in an enchanting, romantic seaport, their dreams are about to come true.

Along with a variety of exceptional, local wedding services, Making Memories Breast Cancer Foundation will be selling gowns to grant wishes for those with terminal breast cancer. Contemporary as well as vintage and antique gowns will be available at a substantial savings. The Making Memories Fundraiser is hosted by the Port Townsend Wedding Guild and will take place throughout the show above the Silverwater Cafe.

Get Hitched Give Hope
October 23, 2008
Arctic Club Hotel

We've decided to throw a really big, swanky-cool party; the kind that gives you an excuse to buy new shoes. We'll have lovely libations and amazing appetizers. We'll have raffles, auctions, and jellybeans. LOTS of jellybeans.

You will truly be able to get gorgeous goods for your wedding by giving back.

Seattle's top wedding professionals have been personally invited to exhibit their services and products with one catch-- they must donate a fantastic item for our silent auction. Together with items donated by Seattle's top businesses, we will raise money for a great cause through silent auctions and raffles all throughout the evening. The items up for grabs are not just limited to pre-wedding prep, day of services, and newlyweds, there are sure to be some great goods for moms, dads, grooms, and friends!

Mark your calendar for October 23rd, 2008. You'll totally find time in your social calendar for this.

We are incredibly excited to announce that our event will be held at the Arctic Club Hotel in downtown Seattle. As one of Seattle's newest venues, the unparalleled beauty of the historic Dome Room is the perfect setting for our debut event. You'll have an opportunity to check out this great venue, as well as sample it's savory menu throughout the night. The Arctic Club is located at 700 3rd Ave. at Cherry St., Seattle, WA 98104.

5-6 pm Industry-Only Cocktail Hour Fellow wedding industry professionals and members of the media are invited to join us early for an industry-only cocktail hour. Bring your checkbooks and your generous hearts for a special hour of networking, giving, and a preview of our fabulous venue with participating vendors!

6-9 pm Silent Auction, Raffles, and Bridal Exhibition Brides, grooms, and guests are invited to sip cocktails, sample great food, take a look at the fabulous venue, bid on gorgeous goods through the silent auction, and meet our favorite vendors.

9-10 pm Closing Treats Pick up the goods you've bid on, and stick around for another glass of wine and our final treats of the evening

Do you have your new party shoes on yet?

The family's first trip to Disneyworld. A long overdue family reunion. A second honeymoon with your husband.

It can take $4000 to grant one wish for a small family of 4, let's grant 12!! Our goal is to raise $50,000 to grant wishes for stage IV breast cancer patients and their families.

Through projects like Brides Against Breast Cancer, The Pink Envelope Project, and Kate Aspen Favors, The Making Memories Foundation creates the ability to grant personal wishes to patients in their last year. Read more about them and why we chose them to receive 100% of our net proceeds HERE.

Please join us to toast to this wonderful cause that celebrates life and love and the fabulous spirit of giving! It’s an evening not to be missed, where the most stylish way to give is to get!

ecoTOOLS To Help You Look Like You

Today's blog is from our guest writer, Mallor Kohlmeyer. Thanks for the tips Mallory.

The most important day of your life is coming and I’m here to warn you about every photographer’s facial frustration: caked-up makeup! Your wedding day is one you’ll want to remember forever, without having to cringe at photos full of foundation creases, eye shadow smudges and harsh blush lines. One small purchase at the cosmetics counter can lead to one massive mistake on the big day. Remember, this is your day, and when the cameraman is snapping away like paparazzi on the red carpet, you’ll want to look like you.

What better way to capture that naturally flawless, fabulous face than with the help of ecoTOOLS, an all-natural, environmentally friendly line of makeup brushes? Below are some great tips on how to look and feel absolutely exceptional by incorporating ecoTOOLS into your makeup routine. Taking care of yourself and the environment never looked better.

We all know that planning a wedding can be stressful, but the last thing you want is for that stress to show up on your skin! You can wipe your worries away with the help of the ecoTOOLS Bamboo Loofah Brush ($4.99). This brush is combined with an incredible exfoliating sponge to give you a glow like Rebecca Romijn. By diminishing dry skin and creating a smooth, polished finish, the Bamboo Loofah Brush will leave you feeling fresh, rejuvenated, and ready to take on your big day.

The ecoTOOLS Blush Brush ($6.99) is expertly-tapered to apply your blush evenly along your cheekbones. To re-create Kate Beckinsale’s effortless definition, sweep the brush lightly across your cheekbones to gradually highlight your natural features. The slight contrast will make a glamorous difference that will keep you glowing morning, noon and wedding night.

Using the ecoTOOLS Angled Eyeliner Brush ($3.99) with ultra flat angled bristles, you can create Rihanna-worthy, beautifully shadowed eyes. After applying your base eye shadow, use the Angled Eyeliner Brush to blend in the color. Start at your lash line then blend up and outward on your lid. Your sheer radiance will have your guests envious and your husband-to-be awestruck as you make your way down the aisle.

Fan favorites of ecoTOOLS include Kate Hudson, Courtney Cox-Arquette and Alicia Silverstone. ecoTOOLS products can be found at select Walgreens, Kmart, and Ulta stores or online at www.eco-tools.com.

Nothing can transform a room into a wedding wonderland like florals. And fortunately in the Northwest, we have some of the top designers in floral decor available to us. If you are still looking for just the right fit for your floral needs, check out the floral section at banquetevent.com to find your perfect match.

But before you meet with your florist, read our tips on how to accomplish your goals.


Selecting a florist: Most florists have a portfolio of their work. Choose a florist who will spend time with you. If the florist has not been to your ceremony or reception site, you may want to arrange a visit to view the decor. This ensures that the arrangements are designed to match the surroundings, and can be very helpful when you are discussing your ideas and needs. Ask for references to see how customers compare what was promised and what was actually delivered. Your florist can also inform you about what flowers will be in season, and show styles that will appropriately fit your theme and budget. You should expect flowers to be somewhat less expensive during their seasons.

Develop a plan: Think about your floral design and decorations, and write your ideas down. Determine what you will need for the various people involved, arrangements for the church, and decorations for the reception. And have a budget in mind. Ask several florists for formal bids, based on your outline. Then determine with which florist and budget you feel most comfortable.

Meeting with the florist: You should meet with your florist as soon as possible. A florist can only commit to a limited number of weddings or events, especially during the busy summer and holiday months. Be sure to bring color swatches of the exact colors you've selected. Also discuss the length of your ceremony and reception, to ensure that you select flowers that will remain beautiful throughout the day.

Preparing for your florist: It is best to bring suggestions when you first meet with your florist. Although the florist may have photos of arrangements and bouquets, it's important to provide a sense of your own ideal. Take advantage of the florist's expertise. Be sure to tell the florist or designer what flower types you absolutely do not like (i.e. carnations or baby's breath); also let them know what you love!

Flower colors and shades: Selecting the colors and shades of flowers can be a challenge. If you select burgundy roses - beware, your "burgundy" may be the grower's "deep red." Always use a fabric swatch or ribbon sample to show your florist the exact color you have in mind. The florist will help to blend the entire theme and mood of your wedding with the floral decorations and bouquets.

Throw-away bouquet: Consider ordering a throw-away bouquet. When it comes time to throw the bouquet, many brides wish for an alternative so that their own bridal bouquets can be preserved.

Corsages: Mothers and grandmothers of the bride and groom should always be given a corsage, but many couples also choose to give them to other special guests. Wrist and purse corsages eliminate pin marks in a beautiful silk or chiffon dress. A shoulder corsage tends to pull down on lightweight fabric, giving a beautiful dress an awkward look in photographs. Be sure to ask your florist to bring extra pins for corsages and boutonnieres.

Delivery and setup of flowers: It is very important that your flowers be delivered at the right time. They shouldn't arrive earlier than necessary, since some facilities lack air conditioning and certain flowers deteriorate rapidly. Corsages and boutonnieres will remain fresh and be easily distributed if you ask your florist to package them individually. If your flowers must be in place at a certain time, tell your florist what time they'll be needed. Consider designating a florist's assistant, especially if you have many corsages. Always put the location and date on your contract, as well as the desired time of delivery so there are no questions or last-minute problems. If the bid doesn't include setup and delivery, allow extra in your budget.

If you are planning to take your flowers to the reception or home, arrange for help in advance. Don't use people from your wedding party. They should not be detained at the church, but rather go straight to the reception to participate in your reception line or introductions. Ask a family friend to handle the moving of flowers.

10 Crucial Questions to ask your florist:

• How many weddings have you provided flowers for and do you have references?
• Can you provide samples or drawings of your designs?
• Do you have a portfolio?
• Can you give me advice on how to save money with in-season flowers?
• Are you familiar with my site or will you visit it before the wedding?
• When and where will be flowers be delivered?
• Will you be available on-site the day of the wedding to adjust flowers and place arrangements?
• Do you have an assistant?
• Do you handle rental items?
• What are your guarantees for your flowers and will they be fresh?

Not Serving Alcohol at Your Wedding? No problem. Try Our Favorite Mocktail Recipes

Not only is alcohol an expensive part of your wedding plans, but some people just don't want to deal with the extra precautions you have to take when serving alcoholic drinks. Plus, there are so many of the "fruity" flavored cocktails taste so sweet you can't even taste the liquor anyway. So, if you are planning an alcohol-free bridal bash, check out some of our favorite mocktail recipes.

GINGER-LIME ADE

Ingredients

• 6 oz. Stirrings Clarified Key Lime Juice
• 1 liter lemon-lime soda
• 1 thumb peeled and sliced ginger

Preparation

• Add Stirrings Clarified Key Lime Juice to a blender
• Add peeled and sliced ginger
• Mix on medium speed for 30 seconds
• Strain well into lemon lime soda

Serves 6
ICED GREEN MINT TEA

Ingredients

• 3 oz Stirrings Simple Syrup
• 1 liter fresh brewed green tea
• 3 leaves fresh mint

Preparation

• Brew 2 liters green tea
• Add Stirrings Simple Syrup and a handful of clean mint leaves (no stems)
• Chill in the fridge until cold

Serves 6

THE REAL SHIRLEY TEMPLE Ingredients

• 6 oz. Stirrings Ginger Ale Cocktail Soda
• 1.5 oz Stirrings Authentic Grenadine

Preparation

• In a highball glass with plenty of ice combine both Stirrings Authentic Grenadine and Stirrings Ginger Ale

SPARKLING SANGRIA BLANCA Ingredients

• 1.5 oz Stirrings White Sangria Cocktail Mixer
• 1.5 oz Stirrings Club Soda
• 1 slice peach

Preparation

• Combine Stirrings White Sangria Cocktail Mixer with Stirrings Club Soda
• Garnish with fresh sliced peach

Recipes from thebar.com

Where We'll Be Tomorrow

Hey all you brides-to-be in the Seattle area, you may be interested to know where we'll be tomorrow. Banquetevent.com not only provides information for brides in the form of our website, Puget Sound Wedding Resource Guide and of course this awesome blog, but we also have a whole other side to our business. Banquetevent.com also published the Puget Sound Event Resource Guide and organizes the Northwest Event Show, the largest meeting & event planners' trade show in the area.

The Northwest Event Show is a collection of the top event and party planning vendors in the area. And while the show is designed for event planners, that doesn't mean you can't gain a ton of great information for your wedding.

So if you are interested, check out nweventshow.com for all the details. The show takes place tomorrow (tuesday) at the Washington State Convention & Trade Center from 11 to 5. It's free to register and free to attend.

Great Read: Confessions Of A Bad Wedding Guest

As a wedding guest there are simply unwritten rules that you must abide. But, in most cases, these unwritten rules are overlooked, neglected or just plain not apparent to most wedding guests...that is, until they become a bride or groom themselves.

Yesterday we read a great article posted on the Today show's website by Zibby Right. The article was original posted on Brides.com, and we think its worth sharing with you.

Read on below...

Last month, on a flight to a friend's wedding in Chicago, I sat next to someone even more clueless about weddings than I was: one of my fellow bridesmaids.

“I bought these great open-toed sandals,” she cooed. “They match the dress perfectly! How about you?”

Hmm, didn't she get the e-mail from the bride insisting we wear closed-toe pumps? Turns out she hadn't gotten her dress altered either ("It'll be fine!"). Plus she'd forgotten to RSVP to some of the wedding-weekend events. And she was shocked to hear that I'd gone to the trouble of preparing a toast for the rehearsal dinner. In short, she was a disaster. But I had to smile. She was just like I used to be.

Before I got engaged last May, I'd broken every rule of wedding thoughtfulness. It wasn't that I didn't care about the bride and groom or that having good manners wasn't important to me. I consider myself a caring friend: I send thank-you notes promptly, I never show up to a housewarming empty-handed. But somehow, the world of proper wedding behavior had eluded me

It wasn't until I started receiving piles of lovely engagement presents (before we'd even decided to have an engagement party) that I realized I should have given some myself. And it wasn't until my own bridal shower, when friends who couldn't attend made sure they still had gifts waiting for me at the hostess' home, that I learned I should've done so, too. I'd actually arrived at one friend's "game theme" shower with a waffle maker. She'd opened it, paused, and politely said, “Well, this will be a lot of fun to play with.”

I never bought off the registry, reasoning that personal gifts like, say, monogrammed robes, were more exciting than china. "What an original idea," brides would write in their thank-you notes. Now, after spending hours selecting items for my own registry, I find myself slightly miffed when guests don't use it. Why do they think I've gone to all that trouble? And that idea that it's acceptable to send gifts up to a year afterward? No one told me that, though technically acceptable, procrastinating until months after the wedding is disappointing for the bride and groom.

Occasionally, I'd forget to send in the response card until the bride's mother followed up. At the time, I didn't see the big deal. After all, I'd told the bride a million times I was coming! Now, after eagerly awaiting the mail each day so I can tear open those little cards and begin table arrangements, I marvel at my thoughtlessness. With the wedding a month away, I can't remember my vows, let alone which friends told me what. And when guests ask to bring dates, I bristle. Our numbers are so tight I couldn't invite some of my cousins. How could I squeeze in someone's new flame? But then I recall how once, days before a wedding I was in, I begged the bride to let me bring my new boyfriend — of six weeks.

“Fine,” she snipped. “If it's really that important to you.”

I spent the entire wedding locked in his arms, neglecting my bridesmaid duties. Soon after, the boy was history, but I'm reminded of him and my poor judgment whenever I see the two of us in my friend's wedding photos.

Ultimately she got over it; perhaps she'd committed her own faux pas, too, before she was a bride. Or maybe she just preferred to focus on the ways her day was special. I'm mortified by my past behavior, but thankful that this friend and others let it all slide. And now that I'm in their position, I'm trying to do the same. Don't get me wrong: Having to e-mail guests for their RSVPs makes my blood boil. But I know that someday they'll be brides and grooms themselves and discover that there are actually pretty good reasons behind those wedding rules we've all (cluelessly) broken.

This content was written by Zibby Right and first appeared in Modern Bride magazine. For more weddings information, visit Brides.com

CLICK HERE FOR THE FULL STORY.

Keep Your Memories Safe

In the past we've told you about blurb.com and mypublisher.com where you can create professional quality photo books and have them printed in hard or soft cover. Well, we at banquetevent.com are an equal opportunity promoter of companies with great services, which is why we'd like to introduce you to another photo book online company, inkubook! You, your friends, and your family will be able to easily upload your photos and text to make a gorgeous wedding book. Choose from our easy-to-use layouts and page backgrounds to show off your photos and stories with the most dramatic effect. No advanced degree is required to use the online software.



Here is why we like inkubook:

1. Professional quality: Your wedding memories are preserved and kept intact forever in a book that's printed on 100 lb. archival-quality silk paper (which means your photos won't fade or discolor with time). Your customized hardcover book will be encased in a durable laminate cover. Customized softcovers are printed on 100 lb. silk cover stock.

2. Affordably priced: Prices start at just $13.95 for a 20-page softcover book and $24.95 for a hardcover. Volume pricing is available if you need many copies to give as gifts.

3 Fast printing and quick delivery: Within days of returning from your honeymoon, you'll have a book on your doorstep and ready to be shared.

What a great way to take all those pictures you took on your honeymoon and savoir them forever in a nicely packaged book!

Fall In Love With A Fall Wedding Theme

Planning a fall wedding can be an incredibly gratifying process. That same feeling you get from a crisp, cool fall day and the warmth you feel when you put on your wool coat and scarf and drink a cup of hot apple cider can easily be transferred to create the same good feelings for your fall wedding.

We've put together some of our favorite fall styles, flavors and colors and displayed them here for you. Can't you just taste the cider now?


A great favor idea for your fall wedding is to roast nuts like chestnuts, walnuts and hazelnuts. Check out a great recipe below. Also, incorporate foods and flavors unique to the season like apples, cinnamon, figs, nutmeg and other spices. Just the smell of these flavors will lift the spirits of your guests.

Top Left: Mulled Pom-Apple Cider from Food Network
Top Right: Prosciutto wrapped figs from Food Network
Bottom Left: Spiced Nuts for favors and munching from Food Network
Bottom Right: Cake from Martha Stewart Weddings


When it comes to style, go with gold accents. Not only does gold represent a regal sophistication, but it also complements most skin tones and adds color to your white gown without taking away from its simplicity. And no matter what palate you choose for the rest of your theme, gold will blend nicely.

Top: Wedding gown with gold accents by Amsale
Bottom Left: Bridesmaid gown by Jim Hjelm
Bottom Right: Photo source Project Wedding


When it comes to the rest of the details for your wedding, carry the theme throughout your design. A simple leaf motive can be used in many different ways and is also a cost-effective decoration. For your bridal bouquets, simply bring the theme together by using the same colors.

Top Left: Bridal bouquet with touch of red berries from Better Homes & Garden
Top Right: Dramatic floral centerpiece from La Partie Events
Bottom Left: Square leaf centerpiece from Your Wedding Company
Bottom Right: Fall wedding invitation from Olio Style


Top Left: Ice sculpture featured at Preston Bailey
Top Right: Candles from Better Homes & Garden
Bottom: Ceremony setting by Preston Bailey

A Table Set For Many

Today's modern couple certainly travels to the beat of their own drum...and style is everything. We came across an online gift registry site that satisfied even the most independent trend-setters, Rosanna. Created by Rosanna Bowles, Rosanna offers the modern couple a huge selection of bold tableware that will spark charm and flair to any hosted event.

Always on the hunt for ideas, Rosanna keeps her dinnerware fresh by constantly traveling, reading, observing, listening and being curious about culture, fashion and the world. She often looks to the runway for style suggestions, whether it's the notion of layering, mixing and matching, the newest prints or the hottest hue. And as always, Rosanna savors what's on the table, designing dishes around tasty trends from olive oil tasting to food and wine pairings. And it's no surprise that Rosanna reaches back into her happy childhood for inspiration as well, creating instant heirlooms-fresh, modern takes on her favorites, to be enjoyed in the moment and handed down for generations to come.

For great ideas on table setting for your home or for your wedding, check out Rosanna's blog at www.rosannainc.blogspot.com.

Mmmmm....Planning The Perfect Meal For Your Wedding

Determining the menu for your reception: The time of day will help determine what you serve: For a morning wedding or event, you may want to serve a brunch menu; hors d'oeuvres are perfect for afternoon receptions; and a sit-down dinner or buffet is appropriate for evenings.
Favorite foods: If you, your fiance, or your families have favorite dishes or prefer certain types of foods, talk to your caterer about incorporating them into your menu. Extra attention to detail is always appreciated.

Menu selection and the weather: Be certain that your menu selections will withstand your special day's anticipated weather. Avoid hot or heavy meals on muggy and humid days. High humidity may also wilt potato chips, cut cheeses, and similar foods. On hot days, extra care should be taken to protect easily spoiled foods. Be especially careful with mayonnaise-based items and raw shellfish.

Catering guidelines: To avoid running out of food at your reception, it is important to plan your menu carefully. Your caterer will be able to help you determine the best style of menu, with the correct amount of food based on your budget. Be sure to ask your caterer if they prepare any extra food for unexpected guests, and if there is an additional cost for this service. Always get a written estimate for the menu you have selected from the caterers you are considering. This estimate should include all food costs, rentals, labor, gratuities and taxes. Make sure the prices quoted will be valid at the time of your event!

Estimating the number of guests: Determine your guest count as soon as possible, since all price quotes will be based on this number. Begin by requesting prospective guest lists from both your and the groom's parents. Then put together your own list. Once all the guest lists are combined, you can use the "rule-of-thumb" that 70-75% will attend to establish a final guest count. We highly recommend that you include RSVP cards with your invitations whether you serve a sit-down dinner or a less formal buffet.

What the caterer supplies: When it comes to supplying china, flatware, glasses, cups, saucers, and table linens, catering companies differ. Some will include the cost in their catering prices, while others will not. Ask each potential caterer how they handle this matter and make sure you fully understand all fees before signing a contract. What the caterer should always supply is great service. They will coordinate all the details of your reception, including rentals, service staff, and referrals to other wedding-related businesses.

Serving the food: After you have expressed your expectations for your reception, and have determined the flow of your party and time lines for the reception, your caterer will be able to suggest buffet table layouts and food start times. They may recommend that waiters serve hors d'oeuvres so that your guests can mingle, or offer you ideas about food stations, which will create a more interactive reception for your guests. The important thing to remember is that you've planned well...now it's time to leave the details of the food service to the caterer so that you can enjoy your reception. The party is for you and your groom, and you should fully enjoy it without worrying about details that have already been delegated.

If you are planning an outdoor event be sure you have talked to your caterer about how they intend to handle bees or unwanted animals.

10 Questions to ask your Caterer:

• How many weddings have you catered?
• What type of service do you offer (i.e. buffet, sit-down and served)?
• Do you offer bar options and are you licensed to serve alcohol?
• Do you bring your own equipment? If so, what and how much space do you need?
• Do you have current health permits?
• What is the charge for servers?
• Can you accommodate certain dietary restrictions?
• Can I sample your food?
• Can you cook special requests, possibly a family recipe?
• Have you catered at my venue before?

Moving Through The Decades: Celebrate the 1930's

What we saw in the 1930's: Crepe backed silk charmuese was favored for its luxurious drape, feel and sultriness. Crepe fabric was also extremely popular for the bias cut, with versions of cloky crepe, rough crepe, crinkled crepe, metal crepe and Romaine crepe as options. Silk tulle was used for veiling, as it hung limp and straight and matched the sleekness of the gown perfectly.

European designers, such as Maggy Rouff, Edward Molyneux and Lucien Lelong were famous for the understated slim look that was quickly copied by American pattern makers. Lelong was a second generation couturier, and was particularly adept at silk. In 1934, he introduced a line of ready to wear bias cut silk satin wedding gowns of classical elegance. Their debut coincided with Roosevelt's National Recovery Administration in the United States. (Source)

1930's Inspired Wedding Fashion: Natalia Misslin is one of the rare true fashion designers; she doesn’t rely on one technique or one idea year after year, nor does she sticks to copying other designer dresses. Twice a year, Natalia is taking on the challenge of producing two collections to add to her existing range. These strict exercises enable Natalia Misslin to push forward new ideas and techniques which are filtering into her range of Bridal-evening wear.

Inpired by Yesteryear

The funny thing about trends, is that if you take a look back in history, you are almost sure to find similar styles that women wore decades ago. Each trend repeats itself, while each generation adds its own personal touches and additions to make the style even better than it was before. In our next series of blogs, we'd like to show you how bridal styles have evolved into what they are today, beginning with the 1920's.

1920's Bridal Style: Cap Veils were in high demand in the twenties, fitting over the forehead and then falling gracefully at the back. Often made from silk tulle, starched and pleated, they became more and more elaborate, some using the finest Lyon and Brussels lace. These were decorated with embroidery floss, satin ribbon or metallic gimp. (Photo source)

Today's Interpretation of the 1920's: Claire Pettibone, a bridal designer from Los Angeles, creates silhouettes inspired by fashions from Paris in the 1920's. Her gowns are often formed from Victorian laces, and the idealized icon of feminine style from the era. Claire Pettibone also creates a stunning 1920's inspired lingerie line, as seen on the bottom right.

Hair Or There

Above photos from Project Wedding

We're seeing them everywhere: simple and elegant vintage hair clips to complete your beautiful bridal look. In fact, more and more, we are seeing antique-style hair accessories used in place of traditional veils or tiaras. The look is indeed elegant and allows you to show of your hair style that you spent good money for.

We suggest rummaging through your grandmother's jewelry box to find a vintage brooch or antique hair pin that you can use as your "Something Old" and instead of sticking it on your blouse stick it in your hair. Even if you are a traditional gal and hate the idea of ditching your veil, bring the two together by adding the decorative jewelry piece to the clip of the veil. Then when you are at the reception, just remove the veil portion of the clip, but keep the jeweled hair accessory in.

If you just have an antique piece available to you, don't fret. We found some incredible antique-looking pieces available Noaki Jewelry. Noaki Jewelry hunts for imperfections, scattered objects on the sand and surprises of tucked-away bazaars -- the heirloom pin, the smooth pebble, the whorled piece of driftwood. The end results are these beautiful and unique works of art that look like they came from and older era. Check out some of our favs below, but be sure to check out their entire collection on their Etsy store.

Good Read

Here's a great read for inspiring ideas to help you plan your wedding. The book is called Entertaining Simple and it's by Matthew Mead, event planner extraordinaire. Whether you're planning an autumn wedding or a get-together for Halloween, you'll find simple tricks of the trade to wow the crowds. The images are spectacular and they are sure to ignite hunger pangs in your belly. Mmmmm.



From The Back Of The Book:
There's nothing better than a relaxed get-together with friends and family. But how do you relax when you're in charge of putting the party together, making sure your décor is just right, and cooking food your guests will love? In Entertaining Simple, lifestyle and entertaining guru Matthew Mead shows you how to say goodbye to party jitters and say hello to stylish, easygoing gatherings. He gives you everything you need for parties that are wonderfully simple—and simply wonderful.

Entertaining Simple is packed with beautiful color photographs, innovative ideas, tasty recipes, and complete game plans for all kinds of get-togethers. The book starts with a rundown of entertaining essentials—the simple white tableware, clear glassware, and basic serving pieces that are a must for any party. The fun part begins when Matthew shows you how to get creative with these essentials—and add a level of casual sophistication to your parties. You'll find great ideas for using old standbys in new ways, like egg cups as bud vases or votive holders as espresso cups. You'll discover how to use printed paper doilies, stamped napkin rings, or stylish vintage flowers to create personalized place settings. And you'll learn fresh ways to add style with stickers, decals, and rubber bands.

To demonstrate how to put his simple entertaining ideas into practice, Matthew gives you complete plans for eight fabulous get-togethers, from a Lazy-Day Brunch and a Summer Barbecue to a Good Spirits Cocktail Party and a Holiday Open House. For each party, he provides inspiring photographs, creative serving ideas, and tempting menus. The 54 recipes included—Herbed Grilled Beef Tenderloin, Lobster and Avocado Salad, Herbed Goat Cheese Bites, and Chocolate Cupcakes with Peanut Butter Filling, to name just a few—are as easy to make as they are tasty to eat. Your guests will love the stylish ambiance, delicious food, and relaxed atmosphere. And with lots of do-ahead tips and shortcuts using prepared foods, it's easy for you to get out of the kitchen, join the party, and have fun.

Complete with source listings and savvy tips on everything from setting up a bar to storing linens, Entertaining Simple is simply indispensable if you want to impress your guests with great food and creative table settings—without spending a lot of time or money. Best of all, with Matthew's simple entertaining tips and strategies, you'll be able to relax and enjoy the party yourself!

Fun & Games: A Fall Wedding Theme

As much as it pains us to see summer come to end, we're still excited for all the beautiful colors and inspirations we find in Fall each year. Fall is an incredible time for a wedding. The season calls for rich colors and unique twists on design. To help you get your creative juices flowing, we've got some party planning tips to help you plan the wedding of the season!


The Theme: Since Halloween also falls in the Fall (no pun intended) choose a theme that is equally fun and light-hearted. We've chosen the theme of Fun & Games to present to you. Fun & Games allows you to veer slightly from the formal and traditional wedding design and be creative with your colors, fashions, favors and decorations.

The Dress: We are in love with the idea of wearing a t-length gown to your reception. By shortening up your hemline, you also add sass and pizazz to the evening's mood, which will allow everyone to feel relaxed and ready to have a fun time. You could even wear a long, more traditional gown for your ceremony, but change into a shorter gown for your reception when it's time let loose.

The Colors: Go with a color that pops like a deep orange, ruby red or golden yellow. These traditional Fall colors make a great backdrop for your wedding and make for a lively color pallate.

The Details: With any theme, it's always the small details that matter most. Give your groom some funky cufflinks that match the color of the wedding. In our inspiration board above, check out the orange lego cufflinks we found at Etsy to stay inline with our Fun & Games theme.

The Entertainment: A Fun & Games wedding theme screams party dance band, does it not? Hire a band with as much moves as you're groom-to-be thinks he has!

The Food: Fall brings new flavors and available ingredients that are not available throughout the rest of the year, so take advantage of them. We suggest adding seasonal fruits and vegetables as side dishes to your plates like sweet potatoes, figs, pumpkin spices, and apple stuffings. Talk with your caterer about jazzing up these seasonal flavors to create elegant and delicous appetizers and drinks like ricotta stuffed grilled figs with honey drizzled on top or a pumpkin spiced apple cider.

The Table: Go with bold linens to match your color scheme. Strong colored linens will help you make a statement without having to go overboard on large floral centerpieces. Also, just for "fun," pile the center of each table with party favor "games" like Chinese finger traps, mazes, pick-up-sticks, mini-puzzels and legos.

The Favors: Fall is all about candy! So have it everywhere for your guests to nibble on all night long.

The Extras: We always like the idea of having a traditional and elegant wedding cake, but to add a little "fun" to the reception, have a custom-made Groomscake designed in a unique shape that signifies your and your groom's personality.

Also be sure to add ambiance to the overall room design by bringing in professional lighting. By using red and orange lighting, your overall theme will be carried out even further.

Inspiration Board:
Top Row: T-length silk gown featured at Project Wedding; Invitation from Olio Style; Groglmann's Retro Classy Lego Cufflinks; Groomscake from Mikes Amazing Cakes
Middle Row: Lovesavers featured at Project Wedding; Lighting by Hollywood Lighting Services; Linens from Aria Style
Bottom Row: Bridesmaid gown from Chrissy O Bridal; Chinese finger traps from Small Toys; Sterling Dance Band from Seattle; Floral centerpiece from Aria Style

Va Va Va Voom, Vibrant

This year in the 2009 Wedding Resource Guide presented by banquetevent.com and due out in late fall, all the upcoming 2009 wedding trends will be presented for you, and in full, radiant color. We can't give away everything in our blog just yet, but here is a taste of some of the inspirations you'll find in the Wedding Resource Guide.

We love when two unexpected color combinations come together and absolutely dazzle us. That is exactly more of what we expect to see in the upcoming 2009 wedding season. Say goodbye to sweet and mild pastels and hello to bold, vibrant colors.

Seen below, we've paired a bright aqua with a venetian red, and as you can see, the results are spectacular.




Top Left: Photo source Project Wedding
Top Right: Event design by Krislyn Design
Bottom Right: Floral by Krislyn Design
Bottom Left: Krislyn Design weddings


Top Left: Aqua ringbearer pillow from Weddings And Such
Top Right: Suspension bridge chandelier from Marjorie Skaouras
Bottom Left: Martha Stewart tablescape
Bottom Right: Duane Peck Kristi Klemens Photography


Top Left: Custom monogrammed table runner from LSeabol's etsy.com shop
Top Right: Blue diamond and titanium ring from ShadeJewelry
Bottom: Tiffany inspired wedding invitation from Alamodebride

To You, With Love, From Me

It is customary for the bride and groom to exchange gifts the night before the wedding. The gift is meant to express how one feels about their partner. The gift should be deeply personal and should bring back the memory of the occasion each time the item is looked at or used. This is obviously not an easy task. In fact, many brides and grooms struggle with finding the perfect gift just as much as they do writing their vows. Somehow a handsome new necktie or a beautiful bracelet just doesn't seem to do the tradition justice. Something more meaningful is required.

If you are struggling with this very same dilemma we are here to help. We've gathered some of our favorite from-the-heart gift ideas that you're going to love.

At the top of our list are these outrageously cool custom canvases from Phunklab, available at Etsy.com. Phunklab takes an ordinary photograph, converts it into a stencil illustration, and then places it in front of various vintage newspaper articles.

How it works...
1. Email your photo to fleur@phunklab.com.au (any file size is ok...jpeg images are preferred) and purchase the design deposit for the style you want.
2. They will email you a few proofs to look at and you can request any changes, edits, tweaks etc.
3. Once you are happy with the design you pay the balance and they will send you your print on whatever canvas size you choose.



How cool is that?

Here is another great idea that takes a little more effort on your part, but is totally worth it. Check out MyPublisher.com where you can create custom-made hardcover books that seem like you just picked it up at Barnes & Noble.

All you have to do is download the free Bookmaker software to your computer and you can begin creating your very own best-seller. Our recommendation is to tell the story of how you and your fiance met and fell in love. Complete the book with short stories, photographs and even quotes from your friends and family. The book will truly be a keepsake you'll cherish forever and will be something you can take out a read every anniversary.


Here is an idea that won't cost you a penny and a gift you can work on together. Each of you should gather your favorite small items that remind you of each other. They can be in the form of a love letter, card, photograph, poem or anything else that expresses your relationship. Then place them in a time capsule, like the one seen below, and vow not to open it until your 5th, 10th, 15th or any anniversary down the road. To make it extra special, write a letter to one another that you don't read until you open the capsule years down the road. Then, when you finally choose to open it and read the words your partner said about you those many years ago, all the same lovely memories will come flooding back.

A Little Sparkle Goes A Long Way

If you are anything like us and you love drama, then you are sure to love these crystal wedding decorations from Cristalier. Cristalier sells decorative crystals in a variety of colors for you to add to just about anything to give it that extra flair. From Feng Shui to Shabby Chic, Tuscan to French Country, crystal prisms are setting the stage in wedding design. Even home trends have moved crystal beads from chandelier replacement crystals to hanging crystals in every room
of the house. Their crystal beads, ornaments and prisms are perfect for arts & crafts, sun-
catchers and even look great on a bobeche.

Cristalier also offers an inspiration design center on their website with hundreds of ideas and themes on how you can use their crystals in your wedding designs.

Our favorite way to use crystals is to create crystal wedding trees, as seen below. Depending on the color and atmosphere you can turn a simple branch into a dazzling display of romantic elegance.

Click here to view Cristalier's wedding tree gallery for tons of ideas and themes and unique ways to use their crystals.