Just Married: Nina & Brendan
Congratulations to this mega-talented couple that made it official with the help of VOWS over Labor Day Weekend 2009. A sentimental ceremony took place in the bride’s childhood backyard in Laurelhurst and then guests were “wowed” by color, creativity, and a hoppin’ party at Pravda Studios.
Nina & Brendan had the taste and endless detail ideas that make a wedding planner’s mouth water! Nina, a NYC-based graphic designer, and Brendan a cartoonist for a well-known movie company, truly branded their event while also making it personal.
The modern combination of pink, orange & lime green adorned the bridesmaid dresses, parasols (by Bella Umbrella - a perfect prop for any Seattle wedding), paper lanterns, floral (by the talented Floressence), customized wine labels and coaster favors, and the gorgeous paper collection that covered each tin of flowers. (Yes! Pattern! Don’t be afraid of this stylish addition to any event.)
The couple’s personal touches included Brendan’s cartoon story of their relationship (hand drawn!) on the back of each table number and their precious cake topper hand-crafted to their likeness down to the detail of Nina’s gown.
Big thanks to the photographer team of Sandra Coan and Teddi Yaeger who documented the emotions and incredible details of this inspiring wedding day. Also, a shout-out to Leslie at Seattle Parties for the bumpin’ tunes that kept everyone on the dance floor and Tuxedos & Tennis Shoes for the scrumptious food and service.
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Just Married: Ali & Cam
Congratulations to this sweet couple that made it official with the help of VOWS on August 8th at Seattle’s Japanese Baptist Church and the newly remodeled Bellevue Club.
Vivid blue made the entire scene come alive (including the bride’s shoes – new trend alert!) and the details of the stunning, lace gown added a vintage flair. Dueling pianos was a fun and energizing surprise for guests.
Thanks to Cory Parris for the creative images and your stress free manner on the job. You rock!
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Just Married: Amy & Tony
Congratulations to this gorgeous couple who made it official with the help of VOWS on August 15th at the stunning St. Thomas Medina church and the swanky new Four Seasons in downtown Seattle.
Pink and “bling” was the theme of the day and the details were out of this world! From the Nike shoe groom’s cake designed by the hotel’s mega talented pastry chef to the beautiful candy buffet that kept kids and adults on a sugar high all night.
The food, sights, and sounds didn’t disappoint. L.A. super band the “L.A. Allstars” was flown up for the occasion and impressed with an amazing likeness to the Black Eyed Peas (oh yes, the popular “Tonight’s Going to Be a Good Night” is a fave at weddings this year!) And even the groom busted out his talents as a rapper, performing a serenade to his new wife on stage while guests munched on a late night snack of Dick’s Cheeseburgers.
Thanks to J Garner Photography for the sneak peek, your commitment and excitement on the job, and of course, for your flawless eye for great images.
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Just Married: Sahar & Jeff
Congratulations to this hip couple who overcame the odds of distance and career changes to get to this (HOT!) day on July 25th when they made their love official with the help of VOWS.
9 years, 6 months, 3 days, and 2 minutes is how the Best Man put the length of their journey before walking down the aisle. After meeting in college, Sahar and Jeff supported each other through Sahar’s move to Manhattan to pursue her fashion career while Jeff held down the fort in Seattle building his real estate biz.
Sahar’s flawless taste was reflected in the choice of black tie attire against a gorgeous white on white scheme. They couldn’t have picked a better backdrop than the NYC-esque Pravda Studios in Capitol Hill. Deep plum made the white pop in strategic places including the bouquets and the Mother of the Bride’s gown. 200 plus votives was the icing on the cake of this swanky evening.
And speaking of cakes! Have you ever seen such a gorgeous one? I was in love with the smooth fondant, unusual narrow tier changes, and gorgeous silk magnolia. You go Creme de la Creme! Thank you for an amazing work of art!
Also a big thanks to JKoe Photography for the gorgeous photo memories! Enjoy!
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Just Married: Christy & Steve
Congratulations to this fun loving couple who tied the knot on Friday, July 24th at the Seattle Tennis Club!
Christy & Steve had a troop of friends, siblings, and even their pooch Kolach making up their 20 member bridal party! I learned that “Kolach” is Serbian for “cupcake”…how cute is that?! Steve is first generation in the States and we honored his background by having a Serbian prayer during the ceremony and their traditional bread at the buffet. The wedding colors of bright pink and lime green just popped against the blue waters of Lake Washington and Mt. Rainier in the distance at the club. Thanks to Redstone Photography for the sneak peek! Enjoy!
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Just Married: Hana & Reid
Congratulations to a special couple who tied the knot on Friday, July 17! Both MIT grads, Hana & Reid fell in love in college and finally made it official with the help of VOWS 10 years later. Despite the heat, love and fun was experienced by all!
Thanks to John Hong of JKH Photo for the sneak peak! To Volterra in Ballard for the fabulous reception food (boar with gorgonzola sauce is my new favorite wedding fare!) and to the city of Seattle for creating Parson’s Garden…a true intimate and precious gem at the top of Queen Anne Hill. Couldn’t have been a more perfect setting for the ceremony.
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The “B Word”
This year more than any I have helped my clients battle the ups and downs of wedding spending. Let’s be honest, no one wants a “budget” for the day they’ve been dreaming about for years. No one wants to exclude anyone or anything, and the reality of what an event really costs is harder for some than others.
The gorgeous, and inspiring magazines out there really feed the problem. Just take what you estimate that amazing centerpiece in Grace Ormonde costs and triple it. “Champagne taste on a beer budget” is a common phenomenon. I find my role has evolved into education on how much things really cost making being part of the planning from day one so important.
Below are some common mistakes I’ve seen and some tips on how to budget and still get an event you’ll be proud of. And let’s all remember the main goal of a wedding: to get married. The rest is cream!
Common Budgeting Mistakes:
- Inviting too many guests. The most expensive part of wedding is your per head cost. More people means more food, more alcohol, more tables, more centepieces, etc.
- Having mega bridal parties. More bouquets & bouts, more gifts, more time needed for photography (not to mention more opinions and drama!)
- Spending too much on the venue. Never forget the small print (tax, gratuity, rental fees, etc.) Your budget should be a balance of your priorities and you should plan ahead leaving sufficient funds for all categories.
- Choosing venues that rely heavily on decor when decor isn’t a priority to you.
- Blowing the budget on the gown - you know who you are!
- Spending a lot on the little things- big impact items are where the budget should be going. Start hacking those nick nack favors, menus, matches, etc.
Top Tips for Saving the Dough:
- Don’t get married in the summer. You are competing with thousands of other couples, why would venues and vendors negotiate?
- Don’t get married on a Saturday (especially in the summer – see above)
- Keep your guest count small. Really look at your guest list. Do you know everyone? Have you spoken with them in the last two years? Would you expect to be invited to their wedding? Start hacking kids!
- Keep your bridal party small (see mistake #2)
- Carefully plan your budget based on priorities. I don’t believe in set percentages like the magazines suggest. I always say: “let’s throw the budget at your top 3 priorities and think reasonably on the rest.” For example: some will spend thosands on the photography (the one thing you keep) and will go 2nd hand on the gown (it really will only be worn one day!)
- Use the ceremony flowers for the reception (2 in 1, you can’t go wrong!)
- Have a smaller ceremonial cake to cut into and get a sheet cake for the rest (no guest will care if its from the display cake or not)
- Choose venues that need little decor. I know many where simple centerpieces and candlelight would suffice.
- Do your ceremony and reception in the same location. Less photography time and you’ll save on transportation.
- Have strapping male helpers on hand for set-up and transfers. You can save a lot on labor charges here.
- Throw a cocktail party instead of a formal dinner. Heavy apps, food stations, and drinks all night are a lot more affordable than “Beef or Fish” and encourages a mingling, party atmosphere. Works especially well if majority of the guests are on the younger side.
I have a lot more tips and techniques up my sleeve, but these are the highlights. Fear not the “B Word”.
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Paper Overstock Sale
My most respected friends in the invitations and all things paper biz are throwing an overstock sale. Here’s the skinny:
What happens when four stationery designers obsessed with all things paper join forces? A can’t miss PAPERPALOOZA! Our studios are overflowing with luxury envelopes, rolls and rolls of ribbon, fine papers from India, Italy, and Japan – and so much more!
This is a great opportunity for DIY brides, scrapbookers, crafters, and paper lovers to get some fantastic goods at prices far below retail!
NEED TO KNOW DETAILS:
Date and Time: Saturday, July 11, 2009 from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Location: Real Card Studio 117 First Avenue North, Seattle (enter from the alley between 1st Avenue and Queen Anne Avenue North)
Pssst: The first 20 people to email sale@mmmpaper.com will receive an invitation to our EXCLUSIVE PREVIEW HOUR from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM! Get first pick of all the goodies! Coffee and yummy treats will be served.
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Jamie Schumacher of Bone-a-Fide Bootcamp for Women in Kirkland is now offering Vows clients 25% off the price of summer classes. Run for this offer, ladies! Maybe something fun to do with the maids or mom!
New classes will start on July 6th. Not sure? Try out one of his classes for only $10!
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Tips for Spray Tanning
DO NOT fake and bake, girls! I repeat, DO NOT fake and bake. Not only are tanning booths a cancer and wrinkle causing nightmare, but you can burn and be itchy, red and miserable on your big day. Spray tanning is DEFINITELY the way to go!
I will admit that I frequent the Rock Star Tan Bar in Kirkland on occasion….ok, weekly. But hey, its freeing not having to wear much make-up and I consider it serious research for my clients (hee hee!) Here are my tips for that perfect, no one knows you tan, tan:
- Start experimenting with spray tanning weeks before your event.
- Use a VeriSpa machine that applies the tan evenly while you are standing. It has a blower that dries you too, so you’re not all sticky.
- Always wear a shower cap and make sure it’s at your hairline and your ears are OUT.
- Fold a hand towel in half and stand on it when you tan, so the color doesn’t puddle at your feet.
- Always choose the “clear” vs. “bronze” setting; the tan won’t show up for a few hours, but much better than streaks all over your clothes.
- Start with the lightest shade and work your way up to a color that you’re comfortable with.
- Exfoliate like a mad woman and moisturize heavily before you spray tan…especially your hands, feet, knees and elbows.
- Exfoliate your face morning of your spray tan for longest lasting results (it’s the first to fade).
- Don’t shower for 24 hours after your tan; this will help it last the maximum of 5 days. (Beware: Don’t plan an intimate occasion on your spray day; you will smell a little bit like burnt corn flakes, but it’s not that bad! )
- Put lotion on your nail cuticles, in between your fingers, and on the palms of your hands to shield from the spray. These areas tend to turn a funky color.
- Stand closer or farther away from the spray nozzles depending on the area you’d like less or more tan. This will help it look more natural.
Be tan, be beautiful…be and look healthy!
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