All My Wedding Faves

seating and place cards: lessons learned

2011-11-19T19:47:00.000-08:00

For the last wedding I styled, putting together the seating chart and arranging the placecards was a nightmare! A few thoughts that would have helped along the way:
1) ensure that you have EVERYONES Full Names (along with their correct spellings). Not just Aunt So-and-So or Cody's Parents....full names! Seriously, this will make your life soooooo much easier! Check out this article about simplifying the seating chart process via something turquoise.
2) Have an alphabetized list of all your RSVP'ed guests ( I would suggest one by first name and one by last name. Also, print out one by table, once you've gone through the process and established who is sitting where - THIS WILL BE IMMENSELY HELPFUL IN PUTTING OUT YOUR PLACECARDS, COME THE BIG DAY! )
3) On that note, if you are printing your own placecards, or are having them printed.....provide your list of guests in some semblence of order. Ensure your printer knows they are in a specific order, and that they need to be kept in and printed in that order (i.e. by table). Have them bundled and packaged specifically so there are no questions when they are to be placed.
4) Print extra BLANK placecards for those last minute surprise guests you were not counting on. For that friend who changed significant others since the invites went out or that family member who doesn't get the concept of returning the reply card.
5) Ensure you've left some room at specific tables for extra guests....unfortunatley, guests don't always realize that RSVPing really is a big deal and how much planning and prep goes into establishing your dream event. Plan for a few unexpected guests to show so no one is scrambling last minute to accommodate them.
6) Have MULTIPLE copies of your seating chart list available while you set up/the day of. The worst was going through a jumbled bag of placecards, trying to decipher who was who (as many names were incomplete (first only, or last only) or mis-spelled, and having one list to compare it to between 5 people. Learn from our mistakes! It's the difference between a job taking 30 minutes vs. 2 hours!

who to invite: matirx

2011-11-11T19:58:00.000-08:00

For all of the people you're on the fence about inviting to your big event, check out the chart below:

via

event inspirations

2011-11-11T12:07:00.000-08:00

Check out my EVENT INSPIRATIONS board on Pinterest

photo inspiration w/ text

2011-09-15T13:04:00.000-07:00

via

sneak peek of the m+m photos

2011-08-22T12:02:00.001-07:00

via Nichole Bohner Photography

sneak peek :)

2011-08-08T14:36:00.000-07:00

I shot engagement picts for 2 amazing friends this weekend & couldn't wait to share the results! luv!!!

Nichole Bohner Photography

m + m inspiration part 1

2011-04-22T17:03:00.001-07:00

More of the vision for the m+m nuptials on pinterest here!

white done right

2011-04-22T16:38:00.000-07:00

via

outdoor floral display luv

2011-04-22T14:50:00.000-07:00

I adore this diy celebration & the amazing floral display over the main table. hanging vintage bottles & blooms....YES! via eatdrinkchic

sonoma 'rustic chic'

2011-04-03T00:17:00.000-07:00

via style me pretty

silk flowers arrangements for under $6 each

2011-03-26T21:42:00.000-07:00

I came up with a few sample arrangements for the upcoming m+m nuptials. I prefer real flowers, but I also love the idea of being able to make everything in advance of the big day.
These were meant to give us some ideas for the buying of the 'real' flowers, but I realized this might be a viable option for anyone on a budget. The two mixed arrangements were made from four bunches of flowers that I picked up at Michael's for $.89 each & a $1.52 for the large yellow flower. I cut the orange & red bunches in half & divided between the two jars. I used mason jars I already had, but you can get a 12 pack of jars for around $12. So, total cost for each arrangement was $4.19 in flowers & $1 for the jar = $5.19.

The other two arrangements, solid yellow, & solid white, were made w/ 3 bunches, again $.89 each + the cost of the mason jar, for a total of $2.67 in flowers & $1 for the jar = $3.67. I'm working on sample table settings & will share them soon!

confetti!!

2011-03-23T19:12:00.000-07:00

luv these handmade confetti envelopes & having everyone throw it as the happy couple walk down the aisle together for the first time as Mr. & Mrs!

woodsy engagement shoot

2011-03-23T16:23:00.000-07:00

see more here: via adam hudson on style me pretty

winter rocky mountian wedding

2011-03-23T16:07:00.000-07:00

via style me pretty

ribbon & lights entry

2011-03-16T17:56:00.000-07:00

I'm revisiting this idea for the wedding I'm styling in August! You an see my original post here. (The images are screen shots from the video below).

And I'm also luving this decor - YOU ARE MY BLISS...YOU ARE MY DREAM COME TRUE

Check out the video - lots of little details & awesomeness!

Max, Margaux, & The Marvelows from Shark Pig on Vimeo.

via ashleymeaders.com

DIY: chiffon & tulle flowers

2011-03-07T15:43:00.000-08:00

via project wedding

For this project you will need fabric - we used chiffon and tulle. Yardage needed will vary based on the number and size of flowers, as well as the fabric thickness. You'll also need a piece of paper, a pen, scissors, pins, needle and thread, & glass seed beads.

To make a stencil first free hand a rose petal shape and cut out. Then retrace it five times on a larger sheet of paper to create a full flower shape. This will help you get an even pattern. Cut out pattern.

Take some fabric and fold it into a square a little larger than your flower pattern. Pin the pattern to fabric and carefully cut out. Repeat this process until you have enough layers to make a full flower - the number of layers will vary depending on the weight of your fabrics and the size of your flower. The example shown here uses 26 layers.

Stack flower cut outs, alternating fabric types and staggering petals. Use a needle and thread to secure them together at the center.

Pinch together the center of the flower (from the bottom) and secure with stitches to create volume and give the flower an authentic shape.

If desired you can sew decorative beads in the inside center of the flower.

peacock feather inspiration board

2011-03-02T10:34:00.000-08:00

cake via, invite via baron cards, earrings via stella & dot, wedding crest via, real wedding: bridesmaids dresses via, table setting via, bride table tag via, shoe clips via

color inspiration

2011-02-09T16:00:00.000-08:00

via papersource -
Some great inspiration, esp. if you're trying ot pick your event's colors! Also, check out their fab blog for lots of other great diy paper projects & ideas - I'm a fan :)

(you can download the full pdf here)

rose wedding cake tutorial

2011-02-09T14:20:00.000-08:00

via i am baker

YOU'LL NEED -
•Piping Bag
•1M Tip for Piping Bag
•crumb coated cake (frosted w/ buttercream in a smooth layer)
•Buttercream Frosting Recipe:
Quick Vanilla Buttercream via foodnetwork.com (I used this buttercream for my friend Amy's b-day cake; it tasted great & was easy to make)
•• 3 cups confectioners' sugar
•• 1 cup butter
•• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
•• 1 to 2 tablespoons whipping cream
••••Directions: In a standing mixer fitted with a whisk, mix together sugar and butter. Mix on low speed until well blended and then increase speed to medium and beat for another 3 minutes. Add vanilla and cream and continue to beat on medium speed for 1 minute more, adding more cream if needed for spreading consistency.

This is much easier than it looks. You get a fabulous & complicated looking cake w/ a few simple techniques. It takes the idea of frosting roses on cupcakes to frosting them onto an entire cake, simply using a 1M decorators tip.

Start with your cake. I put a good crumb coat on... as in, a crumb coat that conceals the cake underneath. It can be sloppy and uneven, but you should not be able to see what color the cake is.

Put your 1M tip (or any large open star tip) into the pastry bag then fill it up with buttercream frosting. If you have an appropriately sized coupler you can use that, or you can just insert the tip into the bag and cut off the excess.

To make your rose, start in the center, then slowly move your tip in a circle around the center point. I wanted a single rose to span the side of the cake so I looped around my center point twice. Try to end in the same place each time.

Go all the way around the cake with roses. This is how it looks after completing the circumference of the cake.

Then go back and add the roses to the top using the same method.

When making flowers that big, you are bound to have some 'dead' space in there. Can you see that big empty spot up there?

Go in and make a swoop with your tip. (try and go in the same direction as the rose right next to it).

cake luv

2011-02-08T14:42:00.000-08:00

I adore this cake via 100 layercake which so reminds me of the BCBG dress via style me pretty below!

how to have a fabulous time

2011-01-12T00:25:00.001-08:00

Nothing better than giving guests directions on what to check out & do at your reception! For real - such a great idea:

via 100 layer cake

yellow luv & PBR

2011-01-12T00:19:00.000-08:00

luving the yellow decor at this reception via this 100 layer cake wedding

engagment picts: Roxy & Mike

2010-12-13T15:13:00.000-08:00

I just shot engagement picts for some old friends who make the cutest couple. I couldn't wait to share the results!!

• You can see more of my photo work here: nicholebohnerphoto.blogspot.com

confetti & glittter table setting

2010-11-22T15:01:00.000-08:00

who doesn't love glitter & sparkle my friends?
via snippet & ink

red shoe luv

2010-11-10T20:42:00.000-08:00

via Forever Photography Studio @ greylikesweddings

cake flags

2010-10-22T16:12:00.000-07:00

luuuuuuuvvvvvv! Check these out via herriott grace

more outdoor luv

2010-10-22T15:18:00.000-07:00

via kiss the groom

mason jars & note cards

2010-10-19T13:22:00.000-07:00

via pigeon post, where you can check out the bride's custom invite design portfolio. Thie invite suite included 3 pieces: the wedding invite, the reception invite, & a response card - which guests were asked to write a note to the new couple. Luv the response card idea! Not to mention the blue glass mason jars & the rest of the paper suite :)

outdoor luv

2010-10-18T18:12:00.000-07:00

via Brooklyn Bride

via Grey Likes Weddings

black & silver

2010-10-18T18:06:00.000-07:00

luv, luv, luv the black & silver print collateral for these nuptials via 100 layer cake!

DIY flowers: take 2

2010-10-18T14:14:00.000-07:00

• YOU'LL NEED: - $100 worth of fresh farmer's market blooms
- 10 painted mason jars &/or assorted opaque vases (approx $20 + paint)
- floral foam (enough to fill your vessels - approx. $20)
- 4.5 hours for 10 arrangements (more people helping you = less time!)
• TIPS: add the bigger blooms first; make sure your vases have plenty of water so your arrangements don’t get droopy over night. (Making them one day ahead is fine, more & your arrangements won't be looking so fab!)
TOTAL COST: approx. $140

the finished product:

see the whole post: via 100 layer cake

ribbon fancy

2010-10-18T12:30:00.000-07:00

via snippet & ink

pretty in pink

2010-10-13T17:50:00.000-07:00

Oct. is Breast Cancer Awareness Month - Check out these fab pink items, (which would make some great & reasonably priced bridesmaid gifts) all whose proceeds support Breast Cancer research!

Simply Vera Wang Coin Purse at Kohl's $10

Simply Vera Wang Necklace at Kohl's $5

DIY chandelier

2010-10-13T17:17:00.000-07:00

Via Ruffled - see more picts on their fab site!

old vases, wine glasses and other miscellaneous containers from thrift stores to make up this chandelier - a full fledged lighting appliance. The light diffuses through layers of glass with different textures, giving a part twinkling, part modern art installation feel.

What you’ll need:
- Triple tier metal Tomato support or staking (Home Depot or Nursery)
- Collection of Thrift store or floral mart vases, wine glasses or cups
- Clear or light metallic thin gauge wire (Home Depot)
- Wire cutters
- Drop in light kits (Ikea or Urban outfitters)
- Power drill
- Metal chain (Home Depot)

Instructions:
Step 1: Go to all different thrift stores and scour shops for some plastic and glass vases, wine glasses, and other unique cups that add character. Tip: Make sure that you find light-weight items, that is why plastic is best. Also, if you find glass items, make sure that they have a lip or some way you can hang them with the wire.

Step 2: After you have collected enough glasses, start work on your chandelier. Clean all the glass and plastic. Wire all the vases or glasses with the thin wire so they hang nicely. Leave a lot of wire so that you can attach it at the very top of the tomato support and it hangs a few inches below below. With the plastic vases or cups you can drill a hole into the bottom and wire it that way.

Step 3: Next, take the tomato support and hang it from somewhere stable ( we used our the inside of our garage door). We also used the metal chains as a link from the three steaks at the top of the tomato support so that we could hang it later in the tent.

Step 4: Drop the light kits into the support and hang them at different heights for even lighting. In our large chandelier we used three kits. TIP: We forgot to do this step, but I still loved my amazing chandelier! If you want you can spray the tomato support white so that it won’t show when you hang the glasses on.

Step 5: Next, start layering the plastic and glass on the outside of the support. This is the hardest but most fun step! Start with the largest items first and then fill in as you go. Take time to step back and find holes or places that need more coverage. At the end we also added mini lantern lights into the mix to give more lighting to the chandelier because it was so large. We also did a mini chandelier for the entrance of the tent and it is the same process, just without the tomato support.

modern illustrated invite

2010-09-27T15:06:00.000-07:00

via oh so beautiful paper

wedding in the Sierras

2010-09-27T14:01:00.000-07:00

via style me pretty

palm springs i dos

2010-08-05T16:16:00.000-07:00

see the whole post here: via max wenger

ribbon entry

2010-08-05T15:58:00.000-07:00

via ashley meaders

Also luv her logo:

do something unexpected or some sort of surprise

2010-08-05T15:53:00.000-07:00

In your opinion, what are the most important details that really make a party feel special?

I always try to do something unexpected or some sort of surprise. Those are the things you remember the next morning and years later.

I'm also a big believer in making special invitations. I've never done any scientific study or anything, but I've found if I make really special invitations there is a higher party attendance rate.

advice via jordan ferney on apartment therapy

jam/jelly wedding favors

2010-08-05T14:20:00.000-07:00

Luv the idea of handing out personalized jellies, jams or apple butter as a wedding favor. The possibilities are endless with jar styles & sizes, with your custom flavor, color, and decor!

via sbpreserves.com

beautiful food

2010-08-05T13:52:00.000-07:00

I love that this food looks as beautiful as I'm sure it tastes. When choosing your event caterer be sure their presentation is as good as their eats!

Especially for your wedding, shower, and all of the surrounding parties/events be sure to make it special! I don't think I can say it enough, but it's all in the details.

from papery & cakery via sunday suppers

modern rehersal dinner invite

2010-07-27T15:36:00.000-07:00

Check this modern rehersal dinner invite via oh so beautiful paper

handmade notepad DIY

2010-07-27T14:26:00.000-07:00

This would make a great custom favor: emblazoned w/ a note to guests or artwork that is reminiscent of your big day!

Materials needed:

(How to PDF)
3-4 packs of A2 Note Cards (use two different colors for a jazzy pad!)
PVA
Glue Brush
2 Rulers
1-2 Jumbo Binder Clips

Instructions:
1. Stack A2 Note Cards (alternating colors optional). Jog sides back and forth on a flat level surface until desired edge is completely flush.
2. Cover one edge with PVA to bind cards.
3. Carefully sandwich the glued edge between two rulers, then clamp with jumbo binder clips. The rulers will protect the paper from the clips. Set aside to dry.
4. If necessary, apply another layer of PVA and set aside to dry. Once completely dry, unclamp and use!

via papersource blog

custom napkins DIY

2010-07-27T14:16:00.000-07:00

This tutorial is for custom picnic napkins, but could easily be manipulated w/ a wedding theme, custom monogram, etc!

Custom Napkins

Materials Needed:

The PicnicNapkin_DIY_Template!

Paper Napkins
1.5″ Circle Punch
Iron-on Transfers
Iron
Ink Jet Printer

Instructions:
1. Download table number’s PDF and print onto Iron-on transfer paper as directed. Depending on what transfer paper you use you made need to revers the template before you print so take special note. Trim each circle out using a 1.5″ circle punch taking extra care to line up the edges. If you don’t have a 1.5″ circle punch than a craft knife can be used instead.

2. Determine where you’d like the design to appear on your napkin and place carefully on your napkin. Follow the instructions that come with the transfer paper to adhere the art work.

3. Ta-da! Unique and custom napkins without the cost!

via amy atlas events

Oh Happy Day - FREE DIY CARD & ENVELOPE DOWNLOAD

2010-07-22T13:28:00.000-07:00

Oh Happy Day....Make your own Wedding/Birthday/Any Occasion Card. Design prints beautifully to any black & white printer.

CARD:
1. Click on card image above to open the full size version
2. Right click to save as (mac users - ctrl click) to your desktop
3. Open the image & print to the 8.5"x11" cardstock of your choosing
4. Cut using the crop marks as your guide. (A ruler & xacto knife works best)
5. Fold in half

A-7 ENVELOPE:
1. Click on each envelope image above to open the full size version
2. Right click to save as (mac users - ctrl click) to your desktop
3. Open the image & print to each on the 8.5"x11" text weight paper of your choosing. (Bright paper looks great w/ a black & white card!)
4. Cut on the solid grey lines
5. Glue 1st area, as marked
6. Fold up bottom flap & glue 2nd area, as marked
7. Fold on all other dotted lines (see diagram for examples)
8. Enjoy your fab, hand-crafted card & envelope!

BE SURE TO CHECK OUT MY ETSY SHOP: sierraPRINT!

vintage typography invites

2010-06-29T12:45:00.000-07:00

via louellacourt

initial planning

2010-06-29T11:51:00.000-07:00

How to start the process:
1. Decide on a general aesthetic.
2. Study pantone/color books to nail the colors right for the design
3. Build an inspiration board for the event
4. Gather props, containers, cake stands, etc. for your tables
5. Build other decor elements around these initial pieces

*If you get hit with a "creative block." - take a brief break from the project and then regroup with a fresh perspective.

via amy atlas events

wedding day advice: splurges, wishes, & what you could have done without

2010-06-29T11:37:00.000-07:00

This one is a little long, but has some great advice from the comments section of wemetinabar.com (See the original post here)

At your wedding:
1. What are you glad you splurged on?
2. What do you wish you would have splurged on?
3. What could you have done without?

1 Amanda B { 06.29.10 at 5:57 am }: 1. Our Photographer
2. A Photo Booth, self-made or rented
3. We had minimal floral already (only bouquets and bouts) in order to be a bit more eco (budget) friendly, but I wish I would have used feather or some other “save-able” bouquets since mine did not dry nicely.
2 Candice { 06.29.10 at 5:57 am }: 1. So glad I splurged on a DJ, we were deabting on going with speakers and a preset iPod but the DJ and the music is what sets the tone for the entire reception. For us it was oen of the best decisions.

2. We wished we could have splurged on a videographer. There were other things that seemed more important but the hubs threw in some surprises at the ceremony and reception. We have them in photograph but I wish they were captured on video.

3. We looked at spending a fortune on a cake but as the time got closer the budgets got lower and the venue threw ina free cake. It tasted good and looked good so we were greatful we didn’t spend any extra on it. However, we did get a bit more yummy specialty groomscake that we had at the rehersal dinner and becuase it wasn’t a wedding cake, it was a lot cheaper so we still had the cake we wanted that weekend.
3 Stephanie { 06.29.10 at 6:00 am }: 1. What are you glad you splurged on? My Polaroid film! We got 100 photos for like $200.00. It took a lot of convincing on my part, but the polaroid sign in table was the hit of the wedding!

2. What do you wish you would have splurged on? Paper goods for sure. I wish I could have done more with our invitations, menus and programs.

3. What could you have done without? FOr me personally, I couldn’t have done without anything. I worked hard on a ton of DIY projects that people thought I was crazy for, but in the end just simply made the day! If you think you can’t live without with, then do what you can to make it happen!

Happy Planning!
4 Colleen C { 06.29.10 at 6:12 am }: I just got so excited when I saw this … I love giving advice about a wedding because it is such an important day …
1) Videographer – we actually didn’t “splurge” cause we got a really inexpensive one, but I’m so so happy to have that video. We only had them for four hours, the ceremony, the photos, and the first dances/speeches … then they left! No one needed the crazy drunken dances of the bridal party caught on film!
2) Again not much of a ’splurge’ but I wish we had gotten dance lessons — nothing too crazy and fancy but it would have given us a better idea of how long our first dance song was and also would have given us four one hour time frames to be alone in the month before the wedding.
3) Centerpieces – now wait, don’t freak – you should still do beautiful centerpieces! But there is NO harm in doing only a handful (and making sure to tell your photographer to take photos of those ones!) on the ‘important tables’ – sweetheart/head table, parents tables, bridal party tables … but for us we had a fairly big wedding, and a great way to save would have been to make smaller ones for the rest of the tables.
4) Here’s some advice you didnt ask for — the wedding day timeline that you are going crazy planning minute by minute — it’s important but don’t forget to plan the day before the wedding, of even the two days before. For me the only day I was frazzled was the rehearsal day – because everyone was arriving and I wanted to see everyone and I also wanted to look beautiful for my rehearsal & dinner and had to get myself situated at the hotel and my husband had to too and well, there was just a lot going on the day before that I hadn’t accounted for.

Woohoo! Have fun!
5 Megan (Running Foodie) { 06.29.10 at 6:51 am }: 1. What are you glad you splurged on?
We DIYed most of our wedding, so I considered our photographer a splurge that was TOTALLY worth it. Our pictures are beautiful and professional looking and we became friends with out photographer and know we will use her for many, many years to come.

2. What do you wish you would have splurged on?
I cannot think of anything that we felt was “lacking” from our day, but I can imagine that if we had not catered the reception ourselves (my family owns a grocery store) I might feel like we should have spent more for food. Our guests do not remember the favors or the flowers or the color of the tablecloths, but they are STILL talking about how great the food was. And because we saved so much money doing it ourselves, we had a LOT more food than you would normally see at a wedding reception.

3. What could you have done without?
We bought WAY too much wine! My mom made delicious cocktails for the cocktail hour and people just kept drinking those through dinner. They barely touched the wine – we had two whole cases left over. People also ate very little during the cocktail hour because they had heard about how much food we would have at dinner and didn’t want to spoil their appetites!
6 Mrs. Smith { 06.29.10 at 7:10 am }: 1. Photography. Do NOT go cheap on photography. And videography too if you can possibly make it happen.
2. A better wedding planner. Mine was a little too new to the job and she really fell short in a few areas.
3. Can I say nothing? I was genuinely happy with every single detail. The only thing, maybe: I would have made fewer programs. We had 100 programs for 200 guests, and we ended up with tons leftover. It was weird.
7 Theresa { 06.29.10 at 7:36 am }: 1. Open bar- everyone loosened up, the dance floor was full, and even though I’m not a big drinker, it was a riot seeing everyone have so much fun.

2. PHOTOGRAPHER. I didn’t think I’d care to look through wedding photos. But I do. And I’m so disappointed I didn’t advocate better for the style I wanted. My favorite photos are the ones I specifically set up with the photographer.

3. We really cut the budget to make sure we had the most important things and slashed out the ones that were “But you NEED ______”, so we didn’t have favors, or a dessert bar, or the like. And you know what? No one missed them. So we were glad we didn’t spend the extra cash or extra time to work on that stuff.
8 Amanda { 06.29.10 at 7:49 am }: 1 – Our wedding photographer. Like so many others, it was so so worth it. We just got our pics back (wedding was 3 weeks ago) and are over the moon about them. When done right, the photographs will be able to capture the spirit of the wedding.
2 – Our venue. Though beautiful, they were new to the business and it showed. We were won over by the low price but paid for it in stress.
Also, not money related, but make sure you fully test your dress for “danceability” if you plan to do any serious dancing. I just figured mine would stay up. But, it turns out a little sweat and lack of boobs can cause a dress to travel south. So my only regret is wishing I had jury rigged some sort of dancing strap to hold that puppy up.
3 – I could have done with a lot of the tiny DIY details I did. Monogrammed coasters? I did receive tons of compliments, but they probably were not worth the hours of work. I would have focused a bit more on the big picture instead of the micro details.

But, wedding planning is fun! Just remember when it stops being fun to stop and re-prioritize.
9 Allison Harris { 06.29.10 at 8:11 am }: Our wedding was small – 40 people in Vegas – and I DIYed most everything because we had a small budget. That said…

1) Glad I splurged on: plane tickets. We spent 1/2 of the budget flying 20 people to Vegas. Extravagant, yes, but the “wedding” itself only cost $1000 and it was worth it to have my friends with me. They couldn’t have afforded to fly out their without our help.

2) Wish I’d splurged on: photography. I had my SIL take the pictures and, though she has a nice camera, she didn’t really know how to use it and most of our pictures have TERRIBLE lighting. You can never go back and re-photograph an event.

3) Could live without: The expensive dresses. I wore a $225 sample dress, off the rack (yes it was poly, and no you can’t even tell in the pictures) and my maids all wore black cocktail dresses of their choosing. I feel good knowing I didn’t force myself and my friends to spend hundreds on one-use dresses.
10 Sarah { 06.29.10 at 8:11 am }: 1. Venue. There were cheaper options, but I loved the historic ballroom we got married in. It was a whole package — they took care of venue, catering, cake, coordination — and it made my life so much easier.

2. Music. I generally find DJs annoying, but that was our budget, so I tried really hard to be diligent about finding a good one. I thought I’d found one, but nope. Totally cheesy, and he spent the whole night trying to lead coordinated dances. In retrospect, I would have splurged on a live band. The DJ is honestly the ONLY thing I didn’t like about our day.

I really really wanted a photo booth, even though it’s a trend, but I couldn’t justify the cost. Kinda wish I’d done it anyway, but c’est la vie.

3. Flowers. I just didn’t care that much about them, and our venue was an old, ornate, historic ballroom so it didn’t need much sprucing up. We went really minimal with the flowers — bouquet, bouts, and small simple centerpieces, and that was great.
11 KellyV { 06.29.10 at 8:19 am }: 1-Photographer, Photobooth, Cany Buffet. DONT SKIMP on photography. I have had so many poeple tell me they wish they had good wedding photos because they went with someone less experienced. And guests are still talking about our photobooth

2-A DAY OF COORDINATOR!!!!!!!!!!!! UGH I wish Id had one, there were so many little things that I relied on my BMs and other people for that really should have been left to a DoC. I confused my on-site coordinator with a DoC and I was sadly mistaken.

3-I mean, I loved everything. What I can say I wasnt THAT into flowers, so I could have done even less there. But I dont regret a single thing
12 Natalie { 06.29.10 at 8:24 am }: Thank you for all the advice everyone… and Heather of course for the post. It really helps to hear from people who have been through it all!
13 logan { 06.29.10 at 8:41 am }: 1. Our venue
2. A videographer, especially with the old 8 mm.
3. Nothing really, we worked on a very tight budget, so I eliminated as much as possible from the beginning.
14 PDXBride { 06.29.10 at 9:22 am }: 1. My photographer (although she was really rather affordable), but also having live music at the ceremony. Musicans are not cheap but they make your ceremony more personal and they help to create an enviroment that shows more about you and your new hubby.
2. A videographer. We were supposed to have my husband’s dad bring the video camera and a friend was going to tape, but he through a fit and nothing got filmed
3. A dancefloor. We got married and had the reception outside. It was just so nice to dance on the grass. There was no reason for a dancefloor (especially since it basically started to fall apart on the grass anyway.
15 Rachel { 06.29.10 at 9:44 am }: 1. We splurged on the band. What a huge difference than a dj. We still got a great deal on them, but it was a good bit of the budget. We got a soul-motown band that a big hit with the guests.
2. I wish we had money in budget for a videographer. Like previously posted, one that used old 8mm would have been really cool and a great keepsake. Some of the videos that are able to produce these days are unbelievable.
3. Help from my family and friends. If you are on a tight budget, help from friends and family is crucial. If they ask what they can to help, don’t be afraid to take them up on the offer. I really couldn’t have pulled it off without them.

fondant vs. buttercream

2010-06-14T13:57:00.000-07:00

Valuable info & tips in regards to frosting desserts w/ fondant vs. buttercream. Some good food for thought in planning any event via Amy Atlas Events:

{All cupcakes above are from Amy Atlas's dessert bars.}

"Everytime I meet with a client, I hold my breath because I know the discussion is coming. Usually it's a battle rather than a discussion. The debate of buttercream vs. fondant. Every client wants buttercream because they have all had a bad experience with the tasteless and often rubbery texture of fondant. We've all had that experience, right? Having styled both buttercream and fondant cakes and cupcakes more times than I can count, I always breathe a sigh of relief when my client picks fondant. I know I'll gain some criticism for this, but I'm sticking to it. Many don't realize it, but good bakers will use better tasting fondant like Fondarific, a company that makes vanilla, chocolate, and fruit flavored fondant. Now don't misunderstand me...I adore buttercream. I make buttercream cupcakes all the time with my kids. I'll serve buttercream cakes when I'm entertaining in my home. I'm also not saying that fondant tastes better than buttercream. But if the cakes are being transported in any way, you can bet I'm going to lobby for fondant.

Here's a few reasons why...
(1) Buttercream in the summer is a nightmare. I mean a real nightmare. No matter how much the buttercream is set, it instantly loses it's shape when exposed to heat. If you are transporting anything with buttercream, it makes it that much worse.
(2) Everything sticks to buttercream. Once, we were serving buttercream cupcakes and somehow black sweater hair made its way onto the precious vanilla buttercream cupcakes we were serving. That was an interesting lesson in troubleshooting. Thankfully, we had lots of other treats to serve.
(3) As I discussed here, all of the adorable cupcake wrappers that are on the market now are better suited for fondant cupcakes. Often buttercream will leave cupcake wrappers looking greasy and messy.
(4) We have more flexibility in incorporating our design onto fondant. Take a look above at a few examples of designed fondant cupcakes we've used on our dessert bars {I limited it to cupcakes for this post, I'll save the pictures of fondant cakes for another post}.

If you're a huge buttercream lover and can't be convinced to go with fondant, then try these tips...
(1) Refrigerate your cake/cupcakes so the buttercream is very cold.
(2) Limit the amount of time your buttercream is exposed to heat. Time it very carefully.
(3) Stay away from the dressing up buttercream with cupcake wrappers until lined wrappers hit the market (hint, hint to my cupcake wrapper manufacturer friends).
(4) Use fondant sparingly and incorporate buttercream in places where it won't get messy or melt. For example, place a fondant chip over a small dollop of buttercream on your cupcakes. Alternatively, infuse buttercream into the center of your cake/cupcakes with a bismarck tip.
(5) Ice the cake or cupcakes on site, if possible."

rainbow flowers & green dresses :)

2010-06-14T13:44:00.000-07:00

A Malibu Beach Wedding w/ fab rainbow inspired flowers & bredesmaid dresses in an array of green!

via once wed

customizing your dinnerware DIY

2010-05-21T12:07:00.000-07:00

Using a rubber stamp that matches your theme, add some pizzaz to your tableware:

You'll need:
• rubber stamp
• food coloring
• powdered sugar
• water
1. Experiment w/ ratios of food coloring, powdered sugar and water.
2. Apply the edible paste to the rubber stamp with a paper towel to control coverage, 3. Gently and evenly pressed the stamp onto the plate.
4. Place the plates on a large surface to dry individually.
5. Plates should be able to be stacked once dry, (but be sure to test this before stacking 'em up & ruining all your hard work!)

Check out the full post here:
via the paper source blog

alternative guestbook: vintage dictionary

2010-05-21T11:41:00.000-07:00

Using an old dictionary and asking guests to circle words that will help the couple remember their special day.

via ritzy bee

summer fiesta

2010-05-09T23:21:00.001-07:00

I absolutely love how the invites & paper goods directly reflect the decor - be sure to check out the entire post, via design*sponge here

10 best wedding dance videos

2010-05-09T18:45:00.000-07:00

Check out this list: http://mashable.com/2010/05/09/wedding-dance-videos-youtube/

mason jar outdoor lighting

2010-04-20T18:12:00.000-07:00

via this NY wedding from oncewed

posted by allmyweddingfaves.blogspot.com

Happy Tues!

2010-04-20T15:11:00.001-07:00

link

including some history

2010-04-20T14:57:00.000-07:00

Luv the idea of including picts of past family weddings (parents, grandparents) &/or events!

via this post at dream-weddings

paper flowers: poppies

2010-04-15T15:09:00.001-07:00

Order the kit, via papersource, or experiment w/ your own version!

alternative guestbook: thumbprint tree

2010-04-15T14:29:00.000-07:00

via bleudetoi's etsy shop

balloons!

2010-04-07T21:10:00.000-07:00

via snippet&ink

via jonathanong

dark flowers & lovely dotted cake

2010-04-07T21:04:00.000-07:00

via this wedding at snippet & ink

aussie outdoor event

2010-04-07T20:37:00.001-07:00

via this wedding at 100 layer cake

weekly luvs: style me pretty

2010-03-16T23:21:00.001-07:00

Style Me Pretty: This site is full of amazing, beautiful, & awesome things! (If you have never checked it out, do it now!)

via this wedding at style me pretty

via this shoot at style me pretty

from this wedding via style me pretty

via this DIY

via this luxe affair via style me pretty

the details on this bridesmaid dress from style me pretty

the paper crane decor via this wedding at style me pretty

another fab Napa event at the Durham Ranch

via this wedding at style me pretty

via this outdoor Breckenridge event at style me pretty

pretty in pink

2010-03-16T22:53:00.000-07:00

via style me pretty

thursday luvs

2010-03-11T00:14:00.000-08:00

the outdoor tent...

the seating chart...

& the wedding programs
via this wedding at 100 layer cake

the sewed crepe paper birthday invite

via wemetinabar

red&black&blue

2010-03-11T00:09:00.000-08:00

via 100layercake

RECENTLY FEATURED POSTS:

2010-03-09T16:51:00.000-08:00

weddingideasandtips.com has featured a few of my recent posts!

art deco wedding collateral

luv this headpiece

shower: make your own flower bouquet favors

Confetti Wedding Invites at sierraPRINT

photo save the date

chocolate invites w/ ivory ribbon

Tissue Paper Pom DIY

in the details

snow globe decor

shower idea - birds & red & pink

2010-03-09T16:39:00.000-08:00

Luving this bird themed party. This one was featured here on Amy Atlas's blog, thrown for a little girl's b-day. But I think it could be re-interpreted for a fab bridal (or baby) shower.

art deco wedding collateral

2010-03-08T15:16:00.000-08:00

As a graphic designer I often get as excited about the printing at a wedding as much as I do for the event itself. Check these great picts from this Palm Springs fete at Once Wed

luv this headpiece

2010-03-05T16:50:00.000-08:00

via Johanna Johnson as featured on greylikesweddings

shower: make your own flower bouquet favors

2010-02-24T23:01:00.000-08:00

A big part of this bridal shower is each guest putting together their own bouquet to take home! I mean, who doesn't love flowers!!! (via this post at 100 layer cake)

cowboy chic

2010-02-24T22:20:00.000-08:00

via this real wedding at 100 layer cake

Confetti Wedding Invites at sierraPRINT

2010-02-19T15:05:00.000-08:00

Available NOW at our etsy shop : sierraPRINT
• design can be customized to your color pallette

view the listing here

DIY backyard wedding

2010-02-19T13:19:00.000-08:00

Check out this great DIY advice in the full description here at stylemepretty.com of how the bride and groom made this gorgeous event happen on a limited budget

some DIY flower tips:
The couple went to a wholesale flower shop to buy their flowers. It is incredible how far eight dozen roses and 80 hydrangeas can go when you’re going for a backyard look. The day before the wedding, because the arrangements would have been a little thin, the bride and her best friend ran around the semi-rural neighborhood where the wedding was, cutting wildflowers and naturally-growing plants from the side of the road as fillers. No one knew the amazing arrangements had no florist help and were comprised of half-weeds!

the bride's version

the jcrew version

A great idea for a beautiful, economical wedding dress:
Sharon had her dress made by an incredible freelance designer that works out of his home. The bride wanted the J. Crew Sascha dress, which at $2000 would have put them over their entire budget. Chris copied the dress for her, but made it extremely flattering to her body. She ordered a custom silk flower and her vintage shoes on Etsy.com. It was perfect.

(via stylemepretty.com)

photo save the date

2010-02-18T16:50:00.000-08:00

from here at sincerely yours paper

chocolate invites w/ ivory ribbon

2010-02-15T14:37:00.000-08:00

via paper source

Tissue Paper Pom DIY

2010-01-31T19:01:00.000-08:00

Revisiting a previous post: tissue paper pomander & wreath, w/ some new colors, images, & how to's:

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

DIY from marthastewartweddings

Joyous bursts of color dance above a table, imparting a cheerful radiance to a rehearsal dinner or casual reception. The dahlialike pom-poms appear to float in the air; in reality they are hung from the ceiling with monofilament. Echoing the vibrant hanging puffs, pom-pom napkin rings in citrus shades adorn each place setting. Square glass vessels in various sizes line tables. Covered in sunset-hued tissue (cut to size and secured with double-sided tape), they cast a soft glow.

How to Make the Pom-Poms
You'll need tissue paper and 24-gauge white cloth-covered floral wire.

Hanging Pom-Poms
1. Stack eight 20-by-30-inch sheets of tissue. Make 1 1/2-inchwide accordion folds, creasing with each fold.

2. Fold an 18-inch piece of floral wire in half, and slip over center of folded tissue; twist. With scissors, trim ends of tissue into rounded or pointy shapes.

3. Separate layers, pulling away from center one at a time.

4. Tie a length of monofilament to floral wire for hanging.

see the entire POM POM VINES how-to at oncewed

2010-01-31T11:16:00.001-08:00

a fab choice for an upbeat 1st dance!

in the details

2010-01-21T15:50:00.000-08:00

some of my faves this week:

via this post at grey likes weddings

via this wedding at 100 layer cake

via oh so beautiful paper

via this wedding at 100 layer cake

via this post from grey likes weddings

paper chandelier inspiration

2010-01-21T15:32:00.000-08:00

I'm inspired by this paper chandelier from Pottery Barn. This concept could be applied to create some inexpensive, amazing wedding decor. The fixture wouldn't even need to be lit, to create some pretty, elegant decor. DIY coming soon!

evening skyline shot

2010-01-21T14:53:00.000-08:00

The essential shot of the evening of the reception - if you are getting married, your photographer NEEDS to take one of these!!!

cake box party favors

2010-01-18T17:35:00.000-08:00

via the Paper Source blog
Make this zero calorie dessert as a delicious party favor for your next dinner party, ladies lunch or tea. With scallop icing trim and chocolate curls, they are lovely to decorate a place setting or stack them on a cake platter for a centerpiece. Also wonderful as bridal shower favors or decorations.

Use the PDF template to cut out each cake shape for easy assembly, and choose any colored paper to create your own combination of “flavors”…red velvet…strawberry…dark chocolate! Sweet!

Materials Needed:
How to PDF
8 1/2 x 11 Cover Paper (Superfine Soft White)
8 1/2 x 11 Text Paper (Shimmer Chocolate and Stardream Opal)
Xacto Knife or Scissors
Ruler
Cutting Mat (optional)
Bone Folder (optional)
Glue Stick
Scallop Scissors
Pencil

Getting Started:
Begin by printing the How to PDF and cutting out each cake part template. Cut along the solid lines only. Once finished, you should have 7 cake part templates (you will use the Step 2a template twice to create a total of 8 cake pieces). Next follow the instructions below along with the How to PDF for using each template with the paper listed or other paper you have selected.

Instructions:
1. Use each cake part template to cut out shapes from the colored papers creating all 8 cake parts.
2. With a bone folder, score and fold along the dotted lines as shown in each template.
3. Assemble the parts in numbered order – the templates will show you where to apply adhesive. Use the finished sample image as reference.

snow globe decor

2010-01-15T19:27:00.000-08:00

You will need:

*A jar of your choice (with a lid)

*Figurines or jewellery

*Anti-rust sealant for metal pieces

*Clear-drying epoxy

*Distilled water

*Dash of glycerin

*Large silver or white glitter (smaller versions will float at the top)

Steps:

1. Use clear-drying epoxy to adhere your piece to the inside of the lid. Let dry per instructions.

2. After the epoxy dries completely, fill your jar with distilled or boiled water (at room temperature, of course).

3. Add just a dash of glycerin so the "snow" falls slowly.

4. Add as much glitter as you like. If you don't like the look of glitter, you can usually find faux snow at craft stores.

5. Screw your lid on tightly and enjoy your snow globe!

how-to via well worn

snowflake decor

2010-01-12T18:04:00.000-08:00

I imagine these as a great addition to a reception entryway, part of the cake table decor, or hung from the ceiling w/ some fishing line!
via cutoutandkeep.net

This is the material you will need for this how to :)The momiji doll is not mandatory but she really did enjoy watching us!
Fold the sheet of paper into a triangle

Cut the exceeding piece of paper to make a perfect triangle
Fold the triangle again to make a smaller triangle

With a pencil, mark four equal points to guide you with your cut.
Make a cut following the length of the triangle and stop a little bit before the edge.
Make the second cut in the same direction, stopping just a few millimeters before the first cut.
Make all your cuts.
Put the triangle on the table.
Unfold it. You now have a square.
Fold the two center cuts and glue them together. Use your finger as shown in the picture, holding the pieces together for a few seconds and allowing them to dry a bit.
Turn over the square. Fold the two second cuts and glue them together. Use your finger as shown in the picture, holding the pieces together for a few seconds and allowing them to dry a bit.
Turn over the square. Fold the third cuts and glue them together. Turn over the square. Fold the fourth cuts and glue them together. Turn over the square. Fold the fifth cuts of the cut paper and glue them together.
Voilà! You have the first point of your snowflake.
Repeat those 13 steps 5 more times, making in total the 6 points required to complete your snowflake.
Glue together the side part of each point to build your snowflake
Hold the paper together with you finger for a few seconds to allow the glue to dry a bit.
Glue the last side to side point.
You can use a paperclip to hold the final part. Allow the glue to dry at least one hour.
Glue the sides of three of the points and then glue the three ends together. Repeat this for the other three points. Then glue these two halves together.
Your snowflake is done.
Use a nice ribbon to hang the snowflake.

pinecone placecards

2009-12-21T16:27:00.000-08:00

via oh happy day

Step One: Set each pine cone down on a flat surface to see how it stands up in order to decide the best place to cut it.

Step Two: Wearing a safety glove and use a hacksaw to cut a 3/4" slit down the middle of the pine cone.

Step Three: Place a name card in each slot, and you are done!

calligraphy for beginners

2009-12-21T16:16:00.000-08:00

via project wedding

When it comes to addressing wedding invitations, our first choice is to hire a skilled calligrapher for the task. Unfortunately, that isn't always in the budget. But learning some basics about calligraphy tools can help give your invitations a unique look. By using a pen with a calligraphers pointed tip, you can get the thick and thin flow that is impossible to get from just a regular pen, so even "regular" handwriting has a special look. The best part is the tools are very cheap! So round up all your friends with nice handwriting and give them a basic lesson in writing with a calligrapher's pointed nib.

Supplies needed:

-Speedball Oblique Copperplate Pen Holder $1.89 each
-Pointed Nib like Gillott 404 $.76 each
-Envelopes
-Calligraphy Ink or Goache-watered down $8

First, insert the nib into the pen attachment so it is facing down at a 45 degree angle. Next, dip pen into the ink until the hole is filled in with ink (the small whole on the nib holds a reservoir of ink so you don't have to dip it as often.) The pointed tip produces very thin hairlines, but when pressure is applied to the pointed tip (pulling down) the two sides separate and ink is allowed to flow in a thick line.

Important Tips:

-Only put pressure on the pen when you are pulling it in a downward motion, the rest of the strokes should be thin hairlines (that way the nib won't catch on the paper).
-Practice with the ink beforehand on the kind of envelope you will be using to make sure the ink sets (some envelopes are coated and repel the ink).
-It takes some time to get used to the nib, so spend some time practicing before you begin.
-Lighter inks and metallic inks show up best on dark envelopes.
-If the ink is left out on the pen for more than a minute or two when it isn't in use, you'll need to wash it with water and dry it completely.
-It is good to have a moist paper towel nearby to wipe the nib down.

Durham Ranch: Monterey County, CA

2009-12-21T13:02:00.000-08:00

via style me pretty

via hawthornephotography.com

deep, dark, & amazing

2009-12-21T11:26:00.000-08:00

via Rountree Flowers

weekend faves

2009-12-19T16:10:00.001-08:00

invites via bird and banner

the shoes, the shoes, the shoes!

via this wedding at 100 layer cake

foil stamped invites via dolce press

via this wedding at once wed

engagement sesh

2009-11-29T19:46:00.000-08:00

I'm swooning over these Max Wenger images: link here

reception space (?)

2009-11-24T01:36:00.000-08:00

Is it out of control to think that buying some land, and building a fabulous gazebo/reception space (w/ fireplace) for your wedding is perfectly normal? How cool to eventually live on that land, build a house near, & reminisce? What I would someday do, if budget, timeframe & reality were not an issue. Ha! I imagine my reception space to be in a similar vein as below:

image via http://blog.emilymainphotography.com/

Fall Reno Nuptials

2009-11-24T01:20:00.000-08:00

I'm kind of obsessing over this beautiful outdoor wedding & reception, and especially luv how it was shot! Photos by Reno, NV photographer Emily Main. Wedding & Reception at Arrowcreek Golf Course & Country Club.

custom christmas card

2009-10-28T16:15:00.000-07:00

putting one of your wedding photos to use :

from hello lucky!

Pantone Wedding

2009-10-28T00:41:00.001-07:00

I'm digging on Pantone Wedding where you can make your own inspiration boards w/ provided images, or upload your own...it's kind of addicting. A great resource for choosing your colors! You can order swatches to pass out to all your vendors to ensure everything for your event matches your exact color palette.

pink candy buffet

2009-10-22T13:11:00.000-07:00

Check out this candy buffet by Amy Atlas for the Martha Stewart Weddings 15th anniversary party

black & white lovelies

2009-10-11T20:17:00.000-07:00

So much to adore about this lovely, lovely affair......the black & white is done sooooo right :)
via snippet & ink - (full post here)

weekend faves

2009-10-11T20:08:00.000-07:00

engagement shoot, via jose villa

via this shoot at snippet & ink

luv the colors & the cupcakes, via greylikesweddings

In lieu of the photo booth. The tag reads: PHOTO FUN: Be sure to take your picture with the film cameras provided to include in the couple's album - a guest book of sorts, if you will.
via elisabethmillayblog.com

friday cakes

2009-10-09T15:21:00.000-07:00

via greylikesweddings

from Charm City Cakes (as in, the Ace of Cakes)

Cerrato's Pastry Shop in West Springfield, Massachusetts

via snippet & ink

'The Office' does the dancing wedding entrance

2009-10-09T14:45:00.001-07:00

From last night's episode of The Office. A pretty hilarious take on the youtube sensation from a Minnesota couple's actual nuptials:

The original:

rings wedding invite

2009-10-09T11:11:00.000-07:00

digging this design from etsy seller rstudio

"Lines mimicking tree rings measuring years spent together as a couple. This number can be customized."