The Little Details

Programs For Jennise and David

2011-08-13T13:06:00.004-04:00

Jennise and David originally contacted us for their wedding invitations, after picking an oh so modern pocket fold invite from Carlson Craft they decided to go with a handmade ceremony program. Using metallic black card stock and light pink ribbon we constructed this super fabulous ceremony program for them, complete with a dotted monogram on the front to tie in the dotted invitations they had previously picked!

Aren't they just beautiful!.....

Wedding Envelope Addressing

2011-07-25T12:18:00.000-04:00

Choosing the right invitations is a big deal. You want your wedding invitation to be the first glimpse into your wedding style. Set your guests up to know what they will expect at your wedding. But the first look doesn't just start at the style of your invite it also starts right on the front of the envelope! Addressing your invitations correctly is just as important. Most brides today don't know how to address envelopes, I'm guessing its because we grew up in a society that uses the telephone or computer more than snail mailing our friends.

Here is a few tips on how to address those envelopes with proper wedding etiquette:

Always put the persons full name on the envelope. It is important to find out the
guests first name before sending out your envelopes. Don't know? Ask your family and friends to help you retrieve this info! Never use nicknames unless you are having a casual backyard wedding.
Address married couples with a Mr. and Mrs. followed by the husbands first and last name. Ex: Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Smith
Address unmarried guests with the proper tittles such as "Mr", Ms" and "Miss"
Never put "and Guest" on the outer envelope. You can place that on the inner envelope. Not having an inner envelope, then politely ask your guests whom they will be bringing and place their name on the outside envelope.
Children over the age of 16 should receive their own invitation.
When addressing to an unmarried couple place the names on top of each other in alphabetical order according to the last name. Ex :
Mr. James Bond
Miss Sarah Smith

Tracy and Frank 2/12/11

2011-03-10T22:41:00.006-05:00

We were thrilled to be involved in Tracy and Franks wedding on February 12th 2011! The ceremony took place at St. Aloysius in Jackson, NJ and reception was held at the ever beautiful English Manor in Ocean twp. NJ.

Tracy and Frank wanted to bring in the element of Valentines day since it was just 2 days before the lucky holiday. She definitely accomplished that feeling with her gorgeous red roses! Her flowers and centerpieces were both done by Tye the Knot with Flowers. Look at those unique centerpieces!!!

New Website!

2011-03-09T12:23:00.002-05:00

Its been a while, so we thought we would update our website. We have been working hard on getting the site up so check it out!

www.kceventplanning.net

We would love to hear feedback on what you think about it. Email us, facebook us or comment here!

First Impression of your wedding through Holiday Photo Cards

2010-12-06T20:54:00.010-05:00

Setting your guests up for what they may expect at your wedding isn't just for Save the dates and invitations anymore. You can now create that first impression with your photo holiday cards. Even though you have not "officially" become a couple in terms of marriage you are still perceived as "together". So why not send out your holiday cards as a couple. Or perhaps you just recently got married this year. Send out your first official holiday greeting card with a beautiful picture from your wedding!

First impression means everything. From the moment your guests open the envelope you want them to think "This is going to be a great wedding"! Lets face it, our society judges appearances first and they know if they like something within the first six seconds. Everything you do in the year that leads up to or after your wedding will be a reflection of your wedding day. Let your guests open their holiday card and be amazed by how everything matches and fits your overall look!

I have found some great holiday photo card designs on Shutterfly. They offer a variety of styles that would fit any wedding theme. Just look for the cards that mimic the design of your wedding. I have picked a few of my favorite cards to show some examples of different cards you can use to fit your wedding look!

The Damask Wedding:

Try this Holiday Card from Shutterfly....

Winter Wonderland Wedding:

Try This Holiday Card from Shutterfly.

My Holiday Card this year will be showing off my new addition, my daughter. This may be the card, its simple and clean and the main focus is the picture of my family...

Bright Blue Snowflake Christmas Card

Shop Shutterfly.com for elegant Christmas photo cards.

View the entire collection of cards.

Here are a few links to pick your Holiday Cards

Christmas photo cards: http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/christmas-photo-cards
Holiday cards: http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/holiday-cards

You can also use Shutterfly to make your Thank you cards!

Thank you cards: http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/thank-you-cards

Which card are you going to pick?

2010 Seasons Greatings!

2010-12-04T23:40:00.002-05:00

Elegant Snowflake Holiday Card

Get custom holiday cards online at Shutterfly.com.

View the entire collection of cards.

Happy Holidays from my family to yours!

Giveaway Winners!

2010-07-19T16:22:00.002-04:00

The Big Wedding Giveaway has ended and winners have been picked!

The two lucky winners are:

Sarah, May 29th 2011
Shannon, October 8th, 2011

Congratulations ladies! Emails have been sent out to the winners. Please contact us if you do not receive them!

Kyleigh and Matthew's Wedding!

2010-07-10T16:31:00.003-04:00

Yesterday, July 9th 2010 was Kyleigh and Matthew's Wedding Day! The ceremony was on 2nd avenue beach in Belmar and the reception was up the street at The Waterview Pavilion. There was a great breeze on the beach to keep us cool from the sun and the bride and her party looked stunning! Erin from Erin H Photography captured the day with awesome pictures, while Joe from NJ's Best Dj's had everyone on the dance floor! Head over to Erin's blog to catch a sneak peak of the pictures that she posted.

Erin H Photography Blog

Kyleigh had her sand dollar place cards made by Shore Chic and she even had one made for us here at KC Event Planning, yay!

Couture Lollipops

2010-06-28T19:14:00.005-04:00

I have been seeing these lollipops show up everywhere these days. They are super cute! You can use them on your candy buffet bar or for some fun pictures with your bridesmaids. If your feeling generous you can also give as your favor. But with a price tag of $22 you might want to stick to just your girls! You can find them at Sugar Factory, best part about them is you can save the glammed out stick and just replace the pop each time.

Big Giveaway!

2010-06-26T12:36:00.004-04:00

We are hosting a big giveaway!

Are you getting married in 2010 or 2011? We have a giveaway for you!

The Big Giveaway is a Free Reception Design Package. There will be TWO lucky winners.

Reception Design

This is for the couple that can handle most of the planning but needs help with the design of their wedding reception. We will work with you to come up with the perfect design or theme for your wedding. We contact all the vendors needed to carry out the look and set everything up the day of your wedding. This package does not include day of coordination.

Development of event design and reception theme. We partner with vendors to create a overall look for your wedding this includes floral design and décor, invitation design and other stationery, table design and linens, lighting and favors
We work within your budget to design the perfect table scape
We contact all vendors needed to carry out the design.
We will set up the décor the day of your wedding as well as receive all deliveries from vendors
We will take down and collect all décor for you at the end of the reception and return all rentals.
We can arrange for a mock up of the table scape prior to your wedding for your approval.

For fairness we will be selecting the two lucky winners through random.org

There are 3 ways to sign up for the giveaway.

1) Email us with you name, date of wedding and contact info

info@kceventplanning.net

2) Comment on this post with your info

3) Message or Comment on our facebook page with your info.

KC Event Planning Facebook page

once we receive your info you will get a confirmation email letting you know you are entered. You can enter multiple times by referring fellow brides to the contest. Each referral grants you an additional entry. Just make sure you let us know who you referred!

Giveaway ends July 18th at 11:59 pm and winner will be announced Monday July 19th!

We are also doing a giveaway on our facebook page for 50% off invitations! All you have to do if become a fan of our page to be entered in the invitation drawing!

Eight Reasons to Hire a Wedding Planner

2010-06-23T11:43:00.005-04:00

I receive a weekly newsletter from Elegala.com and today was an interesting article that was contributed by Luxurious Wedding Etiquette and Protocol Expert, Claudia Lutman. The article is called Eight Reasons to Hire a Wedding Planner. I thought the article would be enlightening to those who don't realize what a wedding planner does for you! I would like to share it with you for those of you who do not receive the newsletter from Elegala.com .

Eight Reasons to Hire a Wedding Planner

Happy Reading!

Eagle Ridge Golf Club Brochure

2010-06-18T10:49:00.004-04:00

The new brochure for The Eagle Ridge Golf Club is finally out and we are pleased to be one of their preferred vendors!

Check it out!

The Eagle Ridge Golf Club Brochure

Love the pictures of our couple Jillian and Anthony from October 3rd, 2009!

Bridal Show at Eagle Ridge Golf Club

2010-03-10T10:34:00.009-05:00

Yesterday we attended the weddingsetgo bridal show hosted by Eagle Ridge Gold Club. It was a great event and met some awesome brides!

Here is a few pictures of our mock up table that we designed. The theme was "Vintage Glam". Ken from Accents By Narcissus created a beautiful centerpiece for the table with added feather touches by us. Megan from Holland Designs created fabulous menu cards, place cards and a table number. They were gorgeous especially with the rhinestone accents she added!

Tipping

2010-02-24T16:56:00.003-05:00

Almost all of our brides seem to ask the same question when it comes to their wedding day..."who should I tip and how much?" This may seem like a silly question but most people are unaware on the standards of tipping in the wedding industry. Although tipping anyone is a special thank you for a job well done, not all vendors expect one.

Here is a list of the particular people that you should tip on the day of your wedding. Just remember that you are not obligated to tip anyone, but these are the people to tip if you feel generous and extra thankful for their services!

Hairstylist/Makeup artist:
Just like in the salon, these vendors are expecting a tip. Common standards are between 15-20% and should be done after services rendered.

Wedding Officiant:
Most of the time if you are being married in your church or temple, a donation is expected. If this is the case you do not have to fork over any more money than what has already been expected of you when you booked your date. However, if you marry outside of your church or temple where your officiant is asked to travel to your wedding destination, a tip would be expected. Proper tip would be between $50-$100. If you are hiring an officiant that is not affiliated with any institution you do not have to tip as they may have already accounted for one in their fee.

Transportation:
Drivers are expecting a tip, but be aware that it may be included already in your contract. 15%-20% of the bill should be divided up to each driver. (if you are having more than one limo or bus)

Ceremony Musicians:
A tip between $15-$20 per musician is the standard rate. Please note that some musicians may have already included this gratuity in their contract.

Reception staff/ Maitre d':
Most venues will include this gratuity in your contract, but if they do not you should expect to tip 15-20% of your bill. This usually breaks down to about $25 a server/bartender and $75-$150 to the Maitre d'

Band or DJ:
Again, Gratuity may already be included in your contract. These vendors do not expect a tip but if your entertainment kept you and your guests out on the dance floor all night singing and dancing your hearts out then you should consider tipping them. $20-$25 per musician in the band or $50-$150 per DJ

Photographer/Videographer:
You are not expected to tip these vendors, however if you hired a large company and the person working your wedding is not the owner you may tip them if you appreciated their services. Standard is $50-$200 per person.

Florist:
Most florist do not expect a tip but if you are having an extensive setup you may want to tip the delivery/setup person. $5-$20 a person.

Setup Crew:
If you are having a company setup any materials for your wedding (i.e tents, tables and chairs) you should tip these crews between $5-$20 per person.
*Same goes for your lighting and sound companies.

Last But not least your Wedding Planner:
We do not expect a tip from you, however if you would like to show your gratitude we always appreciate your recommendations to other couples!

*These amounts are what we tell our couples. These are here only as guidelines and what we have fpund vendors are looking for*

New Stylish Invitations

2010-02-04T09:59:00.003-05:00

Seeing is Believing....

Stylish wedding invitations that

express your style and personality

while staying within your budget.

ask to see the exlusive Bridal Collection

Value
with
Style

by Carlson Craft

The Brides Have Spoken!

2010-01-19T17:18:00.002-05:00

WeddingWire, the nation’s leading wedding technology company, just announced that KC Event Planning has been selected to receive the 2010 Bride’s Choice Awards™ for Wedding Planning!

The annual Bride’s Choice Awards™ recognizes and celebrates excellence in quality and service within the wedding industry, as determined by recent reviews and extensive surveys from over 500,000 newlyweds.

KC Event Planning LLC is among the top five percent of all vendors in the WeddingWire community, which includes over 100,000 wedding professionals across the US and Canada. Awards were given to winners across 19 different service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers.

“We are excited to recognize and honor the success of the top wedding professionals within the WeddingWire Community” said Timothy Chi, WeddingWire’s Chief Executive Officer. “The annual Bride’s Choice Awards™ program has given us the unique opportunity to highlight the best wedding professionals in each region as reviewed by brides and grooms who have utilized their services in the past year.”

We are happy to announce that KC Event Planning LLC is among the very best wedding planners within the WeddingWire Network, which includes Wedding Wire and Martha Stewart Weddings. We would like to thank our past newlyweds for nominating us for the 2010 Bride’s Choice Awards™.

For more information, please visit our WeddingWire Storefront today HERE.

Shoes Shoes Shoes!

2010-01-11T21:50:00.015-05:00

I love shoes! What girl doesn't?

Recently, I was browsing through some bridal shoes and thought I would share some of my favorite finds. Hope you like them too!

Platform sandal with encrusted Swarovski-crystal heel by Stuart Weitzman, $575

Silk satin sandal with lace-up ribbon and silk flower with feather accent by Mika Inatome Bridal, $395

Glittered Platform Pump by Christian Louboutin, $775

Crystal-Buckle Slide in snakeskin by Manolo Blahnik, $895

"Gracious" by Kate Spade, all satin platform sandal with side bow, $325

"Destiny" by Paris Hilton peep toe pump with large satin bow, $120

hmmm........wishing I could own them all!

Kelley and Greg October 30th 2009

2009-11-12T20:33:00.008-05:00

Kelley and Greg were married October 30th 2009 at St. Elizabeth's in Avon-by-the-sea. Their reception was held at The Breakers in Spring Lake. Kelley had hired us for day of coordination and for a candy buffet. Her colors were raspberry and Lime/Green apple. We created a candy buffet using those colors and also added in some favorite candy of the bride and groom. The Candy buffet looked so delicious with the candy Kelley had chosen. It must have been hard for her guests to resist!

Some of the candy included: Watermelon fruit slices, Green gummy bears, Jelly Belly's, Taffy, Hershey kisses, M&M's and a few more! Here are a couple of pictures that I took with my camera......

Jen and Jon September 12th 2009

2009-11-05T10:23:00.008-05:00

We met Jen back in March at the Ritacco Center Bridal show, she remembered us and after feeling overwhelmed with last minute wedding stress she contacted us just a couple weeks before her big day! We were delighted to help in any way we could to help make Jen's dream wedding a reality.

Jen is one talented and creative individual, she was a total DIY'er and created everything from centerpieces to the invitations, Jon even hand made the card box which was a tiny model of the Cinderella castle in Disney World (the couples honeymoon spot) made to look like a sand castle! Since Jen and Jon had done everything themselves they were in need of our help to execute the day with setup and direction. The wedding took place on the beach of Ship Bottom, LBI where Jon's father a judge preformed the ceremony, the reception followed at the Brant Beach Yacht Club in LBI. The beautiful beach and water setting made for a perfect back drop!

Here is a few of the professional pictures from their big day. Thank you to Mary Lee from Mary Lee Photography for providing us these fabulous images!

Special Note from the happy couple!:

Hi girls!

Jon and I are in Florida and completely exhausted! But, we have never been happier! Thank you so so much for helping to make our day perfect! We couldn't have done it without you. It was truly magical.

You girls are the best! Thanks again!

-Jen and Jon Carr :o)

Jillian and Tony October 3rd 2009

2009-10-28T11:21:00.007-04:00

Jillian and Tony were married October 3rd 2009. The wedding went off without a hitch and here is a sneak peak of some of the details we created for them. I cant wait to show the professional shots when they come in!

At the escort card table we draped crystal strands in between the cards. The strands hung off the table with a larger crystal.

The wish jar was our take on the guest book where the guests wrote well wishes and advice on pretty card stock and placed them in the jar!

This is a picture of the table scape before sundown and candles were lit.

That's me decorating the sweet heart table!

We had a custom cigar roller come in and roll cigars for guests!

Since Jillian loves everything that sparkles.....we had to add bling to the cake! The cake was wrapped with rhinestone ribbon.

We set up an extensive candy buffet along with the miniature pink champagne bottles they gave as favors.

The candy buffet was such a huge hit that we could hardly put the candy out with out the guests sneaking some!

Can't wait for the professional photos!

Thank you to all the vendors!

Courissa from Eagle Ridge Golf Club

Carrie and her team from Carrie Kozak Photography

Boulevard cigar shop - (732) 288-2744

Linens from Fabulous Events

Carol from Something Nice Floral Designs

Makeup Artist Michelle Larner

Grooms Cakes

2009-07-02T18:32:00.013-04:00

It is an old southern tradition that has metamorphosed into a hot trend, even celebrities are sporting the grooms cake at their receptions.

The traditional grooms cake was used as an alternative to the brides cake (wedding cake) it was often either chocolate or a liqueur flavored fruit cake. They say that if a single lady sleeps with a piece of the grooms cake under her pillow she will dream about her future husband!

Now, Bride and Grooms are choosing a cake that reflects the grooms interests or hobbies like Singer Taboo from The Black Eyed Peas had a grooms cake in the shape of a tattoo that he currently has on his body

Here are some pictures of grooms cakes....

Cake by Moniques Cake Creations (732)451-1250

Cake by Pink Cake Box

Cake by Kimmy's Kakes

Henry + Faith

2009-06-24T11:33:00.004-04:00

Henry and Faith were married June 19th. It was a beautiful day on the beach, thanks to the weather holding off for the one day of sunshine!

Here are some of the pictures that I had taken, I will post the professional ones as soon as I get them!

Calling all brides! New Television Show!

2009-06-04T17:45:00.004-04:00

Special offer of Save the Dates!

2009-05-26T15:53:00.003-04:00

We are currently offering 30% off all save the dates! This includes the popular photo magnets! Please contact us today to order and view our selection! Hurry discount ends June 30th!

Mad about Feathers!

2009-05-08T17:58:00.008-04:00

I love feathers! I have been seeing a ton of feathers being infused into weddings. Whether its decor or fashion, feathers are making a statement!

Here are some pictures of awesome feather accessories!

Credits: Pictures 1-3 accessories by Erica Koesler, Pictures 4-6 accessories by En Vogue

Eyelash Extensions!

2009-04-20T10:24:00.005-04:00

I recently went to my fabulous make-up artist to get eyelash extensions. I always wanted them but wasn't sure exactly what they were and if I would like them, well needless to say I'm in love! These are individual lashes glued to your individual lashes. Unlike normal false lashes, with these lashes they can last up to 3 months and you can even go swiming with them. I think these are an awesome idea if you are interested in having long lashes for your wedding day. They will last well past your honeymoon too! Here is a few pictures of the before and after..............

Before
After

If you are interested in getting eyelash extensions yourself contact Michelle at http://www.makeupbymichelle.net/ Check out Michelle's website for more before and after pictures as well as her awesome make-up talents!

Choosing your veil

2009-04-16T18:30:00.003-04:00

So you got the dress (yay!) and now you need to accessorize! Here is a list of the different lengths of veils so you can be more knowledgeable when choosing the one that's right for you........ but don't forget to take in account the style of your dress!

Blusher- this is the veil that covers the face when you walk down the aisle. It starts at 20" in length and is never worn by itself. The blusher can be worn during the entire ceremony and is pulled back for the first kiss as husband and wife or it can be pulled back over the bride's face before she is given away by father at the beginning of the ceremony

Flyaway or Shoulder- This is the shortest veil, most often 20" long. It is usually not done by itself (single layer)but rather in addition to another veil of a different length to add volume.

Elbow- Comes below the shoulder normally hits right at the elbow. Usually at about 28" long. It is generally used for gowns without a train and gowns that have a full skirt

Fingertip- Comes to the fingertips, Usually 36" long. This veil can be worn with any full length gown but is not recommended for gowns with a train

Ballet- This veil is normally about 56" long and comes somewhere between your knees and your calves. Some Bridal salons will call this veil "waltz" or "knee"

Chapel- Comes anywhere from your ankles to brushing the floor about 108" long. Most often combined with another veil of a different length.

Cathedral- This veil is most often used when in a church that has a long aisle as it makes a statement when you walk. This veil is worn normally for formal weddings as it will extend onto the floor at least six inches past the train of your dress. It starts at 120" long.

Sex and The City

2009-04-12T21:43:00.003-04:00

The Vivienne Westwood gown that Sara Jessica Parker wore for the wedding on Sex and the City movie was put up for purchase on Net-a-porter.com and was sold out within hours. I guess the price tag of $9,875 didn't stop the Carrie Bradshaw wannabe brides............it was definitely an awesome dress!

Awesome Invitations!

2009-04-03T10:29:00.009-04:00

Cheryl and I had the pleasure of meeting with an awesome graphic designer last night who custom makes invitation suites. Her work is so beautiful that I thought I would share it with everyone....

Her name is Megan, and her company is Holland Designs LLC. She offers a variety of stationary needs from invites to place cards to menu cards and even hang tags for your favors. She can create a whole wedding suite that is custom designed to you and your needs.

Megan is willing to work with any budget and will take the time to sit down with you, so you can get exactly what you want!

If your interested, click here. Set up a consultation so you can view her work first hand.

Traditions of Wedding Invitations

2009-03-31T22:55:00.003-04:00

Ever wonder why there is so many pieces to a traditional wedding Invitation? Okay so we know what the response card is for and the reception card but whats with this tissue and why so many envelopes?

Here is a little inside to those traditions:

The Outer Envelope: This envelope, like to today told which house the invitation was to be delivered to. Although today our invites go through the postal system with a stamp, years ago it was a servant of the brides house who hand delivered the invites.

The Inner Envelope: years ago the servant from the recipients house would receive the invite from the brides servant, then remove the outer envelope to reveal the clean crisp inner envelope to hand to the recipient. Inner envelopes should not be sealed.

Tissue Paper: Wedding invitations used to be hand written in black ink, so the tissue paper was used to prevent smearing. People use tissue paper today to keep with traditions.

If your going with the traditions or not, be sure you mail your invitations out in a timely matter at least 4-6 weeks before the date of your event and be sure to order at least 10% more than you need for those last minute invitees. As for cost, your invitations budget should be about 2-5% of your overall wedding budget.

Wedding Guest Books

2009-03-18T09:30:00.008-04:00

With all the wonderful ideas out there, you don't have to settle for a traditional guest book for your wedding day. Although traditional guest books are always nice (I used one myself) you can add a more creative touch to new ways of your guest's well wishes for you!

Here are four new trends for your wedding guest book.......

1. Wish Jar

Have your guests write their wishes for you as a couple on pretty card stock that is all ready pre-cut into index card size pieces. They can then drop these wishes into a decorative vase. If you use different color card stock, the vase then turns into a decor for your wedding. When the wedding comes to an end, have your MOH take the wishes out of the vase and wrap them in ribbon for you to take and read each wish on your honeymoon. You can always save the vase/jar and display it in your new home together, so you always have the loving sentiments from your family and friends with you!

2. Wine Bottle Messages

You can create this guest book by purchasing one extra large bottle of wine or several average size bottles. With silver or gold markers (sharpies work good) have your guest sign in and write well wishes to you both on the bottles. If you are doing one large bottle you can keep it and display in your new home together. If you are doing several average size bottles, designate each bottle as an anniversary and display a sign that tells your guests which bottle is for what anniversary. That way when your 1st, 5th, 10th, 20th and so on, anniversary comes around you can enjoy a class of wine and read what wishes your family and friends had for you on that anniversary! Be sure to choose wine that will get better with age!

3. Wish Tree

This one works similar to the wish jar. Create a beautiful decorative tree with branches and crystals. Have your guests write their wishes on pre-cut decorative card stock that already has a wire attached to it. Then each guest will hang their wish from the tree. You can also do this and create a different look with ribbon!

4. Picture Frame Guest Book

Use your awesome engagement photos to display one within a blank matted frame. You can use an easel to stand the picture frame up and use markers for your guests to write on it. Make sure you remove the glass from the frame when you have it displayed for your guests to write on it. After the wedding you can replace your engagement photo with a photo from your wedding day and you can hang it on the wall!

Photo credits: Wish Jar theknot.com, wine bottle thenot.com, wedding wish tree www.herecomestheguide.com, Picture frame guest book www.goodthingsweddingfavors.com

Jill and Tony's First Inspiration Board

2009-03-13T00:18:00.006-04:00

This is the first Inspiration board for Jill and Tony's wedding on October 3, 2009

I created this board on Polyvore.com

Jill and Tony's Inspiration Board - by KCeventplanning on Polyvore.com

Signature Cockatils

2009-03-03T19:20:00.013-05:00

A good way to add an extra touch to your reception/cocktail hour is to come up with a signature drink.... or two!

Get creative, pick a drink you love and want to share with all your guests or possibly a drink that's the same color as your wedding colors. Once you have the drink you want to use, talk to your venue or bartender to come up with the perfect garnish. Popular garnishes these days are to have sugared rims, especially if the sugar is colored! Also, you can have the glass rimmed with crumbled cookies or graham crackers, maybe even chocolate.

Have your signature cocktail passed out during cocktail hour and reception, you can even have a sign made with the name of the drink for all to see, try putting the sign in a cute decorative frame so it can stand on the bar or the tray of the server.

Try some of these recipes!

Chocolate Soufle-tini

½ parts vodka
1 ½ parts Chocolate Liqueur
Splash of Frangelico (hazelnut Liquor)
Garnish with a powdered chocolate rim (optional).

Key Lime Martini

2 oz vanilla vodka
1 oz sweetend lime juice
1 oz half and half cream
Garnish with a graham cracker crumbled rim (optional)

Pepermint Patty Martini

2 oz vodka
1 oz peppermint schnapps
1 oz white creme de cacao
Garnish with a chocolate rim (optional)

Prickly Peartini

1 3/4 oz Pear Vodka
3/4 oz Cointreau
2 oz Sweet & Sour mix
Garnish with a sugared rim (optional)

Photo credits from left to right.....3 pink glasses (theknot.com), single pink glass (metromixny.com),chocolate margarita (notcot.com), green martinis (theknot.com), Margaritas and chocolatinis (colincowie.com)

Haute Doggie!

2009-02-24T20:26:00.010-05:00

Mans best friend is making an appearance down the aisle as best man! Many people today are including their pets in their nuptials. You've seen celebrities include their dogs on their special day, such as Adam Sandler, Gwen Stefani, and Tori Spelling. So why not you?

If your thinking about including your pet in your wedding party but would like them to look like a pet and not one of the groomsmen, try and jazz up their everyday collar into something more bridal.

Hamptons Hound has come up with a line of Bridal collars and leashes to bling out your pooch. You can match a collar to your gown! Collars are beaded with rhinestones and start at $90

Ritacco Center Bridal Show Update

2009-02-23T20:11:00.009-05:00

Here are some pictures from the Bridal Show at the Ritacco Center on Feb. 22nd.....

This was our table

The tree with crystals and orchids we put together to add a little bling to our table

The Candy Buffet that went really fast!

First Class Limousines had a pink stretch hummer parked outside and I was so excited that I had to take a pic with it!

Any Bride that attended the show and books one of our coordination packages will recieve 20% off our services!

If you are interested in having a Candy Buffet at your event please contact us and we will send you our packages and prices on it!

Having out of town guests?

2009-02-17T00:47:00.004-05:00

Lets face it, almost everybody has family and friends that live in a different state. You invited them to your wedding and you conveniently enclosed an accumulations card in your invite for them. Now that they are flying or driving in to share your special day with you why not thank them by giving them a special basket full of treats that's waiting for them at the hotel. Gift baskets can be so creative these days and adding special touches to them is a great why to say "thank you".

Things you might consider putting in your gift baskets:

Map of the town
Sites to see
Bottled water and treats (you can enhance these items with your wedding monogram)
Tylenol (for the after party hangover)
Maybe something that relates to your town (for instance I live near the beach so I would put in Salt Water Taffy )
Your favorite DVD (so they don't get bored in the hotel)
Wedding day Itinerary
Suggestions of local restaurants
Handmade soaps or lotion
Gum or tic-tacs

You can go to your local craft store and pick out fun baskets to load everything into and tie ribbon that matches your wedding colors around the basket.

Don't want to bother purchasing the items and putting the baskets together your self? Kate Parker Weddings has come up with a line of baskets pre-made for you. You can choose for several city inspired baskets and even kid baskets. They range from $20-$50 and they can even deliver them to the hotels for you!

Bridal Show

2009-02-16T11:09:00.003-05:00

We will be at the wedingsetgo bridal show on February 22nd at the Ritacco Center. Starts at 12pm........Come out and see us!

We will be offering a discount off our services to all brides that we meet at the show, so if your interested in our services come visit our table! (plus we will have candy!)

Also, There will be Tons of giveaways from different vendors, such as a Mary Kay gift basket or enter to win a honeymoon from Travelsmiths!

You can pre-register for the show here.

Whats your wedding color?

2009-02-08T20:30:00.010-05:00

There is some hot new trends with wedding colors this year, and when I say hot I mean hot, red hot! The trends have shifted and the current trends are becoming more and more vibrant.

Colors that are heating up the aisles are Red and Orange with Yellow and Fuchsia. Many Brides aren't just choosing one color tone but rather a pallet of similar tones and shades. By combining hues from the same color family it makes a more subtle statement with loads of dimension.

Looking for that pop value? Choose two bold colors that are contrasting, try two colors that are opposite on the color wheel, like Royal Blue and Orange, or Purple and Green. Purple is becoming more and more popular and I've been seeing it done in almost every tone from lilac to plum to dark purple. There is something that has a real regal feeling with purple.

We made it to a magazine!

2009-02-03T00:12:00.004-05:00

My wedding was published in Contemporary Bride Magazine New Jersey edition! I would like to say thank you to all my vedors you made the day so beautiful!

What a great first!

2009-01-25T23:36:00.004-05:00

We had our first bridal show today, and it was a success! We met a lot of new vendors and potential clients. Everyone seemed to enjoy our candy bar, glad we could help people indulge in a little chocolate and sugar while mingling with vendors!

We booked this bridal show last minute so we had to rush to get a table display together, we have lots of ideas for the next one though!

Here is a pic of our table....

Who said you had to have a traditional dress?

2009-01-18T16:33:00.005-05:00

Amsale has created a new line of bridal gowns that are a bit short of traditional. The new line is called "The Little White Dress". I just love this collection! We all know every girl must have the perfect little black dress in her closet, why not replace it with the perfect little white dress for your wedding day affairs. The collection was designed for all wedding aspects from engagement parties to rehearsal dinner or for feeling less conformed for the day of celebration!

Not willing to let go of your big traditional dress, why not get two dresses (if your budget allows for it) and change into one of these little numbers half way into your reception so you can be more comfortable cutting a rug on the dance floor!

Here are a few pics of the collection......

Jessica & Ed

2009-01-09T00:11:00.003-05:00

This first inspirational board for Jessica and Ed. They are getting Married 9/26/2009. Jessica chose the colors wine/burgundy and gold for her wedding. Her bridesmaids will be wearing the color wine, she wants to add touches of gold throughout the wedding. We are also incorporating her and Ed's love of wine (the drink) into the wedding.

Blog it foward!

2009-01-06T10:41:00.002-05:00

Let’s Eat Cake, an amazing fundraiser hosted by the equally amazing Melissa Margarita-DiStefano, is coming up quick: Tuesday, February 17th at the Plaza Paramount Hotel! Let’s Eat Cake is a cake decorating competition with all proceeds going to the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Learn more about the fundraiser right here.
In an effort to make sure we get the word out to everyone (and raise money), we are starting this chain-blog (Ok, not sure if that is correct terminology. But it’s like a chain letter so let’s just go with it, shall we?)
Here’s what we need you to do…Repost this post (or create your own new version) on your blog and ask others to post it on their blogs. Melissa will donate one dollar to the fundraiser for EVERY BLOG that posts on Let’s Eat Cake this week! With the power of the blogosphere, that can QUICKLY add up! Let’s make Melissa Pay! Once you have reposted it, leave a comment letting us know that you posted it along with the url to the blog. It’s for a great cause and it will be fun to see how far it will go! So lets do it… Lets blog it forward and raise money for a great cause!!!
**Kudos to Unique Designs for creating this fun chain-blog effort!**
P.S. Ok, Melissa… time to kick in another $1!
P.S.S. If any business wants to help out with a matching challenge, Melissa would love to hear from you!

Going Green

2009-01-03T23:15:00.006-05:00

A friend of mine is very into the Eco-friendly living, In fact he is a vegan and only purchases clothes that are part of fair trade clothing. When he told me he was getting married it was no surprise to me that he and his fiance were going to have a green wedding. I know that not everyone will go as far as making sure everything is Eco-friendly but in case you were hoping to add a little green into your wedding here is a list of some ways you can do so...

~ Use recycled paper for your invitations. Earthly Affair and InviteSite offer stylish invitations made out of recycled paper. You can also use cotton card stock. Cotton is a renewable resource. Formal-Invitations offers a variety of card stock either in recycled paper or tree free paper. Another option is to skip the paper and send your guests an evite. If you would rather send out a formal invite than think about emailing the directions or accommodations to your guests to cut back on the amount of paper used.

~Use soy or beeswax candles instead of regular wax votives. Beeswax is a renewable resource and soy wax burns clean. Cajun Candles offers supplies to make your own soy votives.

~When thinking about flowers and centerpieces, think about your local growers and choose flowers that are grown in your area. Also plants such as bamboo are in abundant supply, they grow super fast up to two feet a day. Plus they are supposed to be considered lucky!

~ When hiring a caterer, discuss options for organic food. Lots of times you can pick up all the ingredients you need from your local farmers market. This way you are getting organic goods as well as supporting your community!

~ Give a Favor that really screams Eco-friendly! Tons of couples these days are sending their guests home with miniature trees for them to plant. Talk about giving back, considering an average wedding has about 100 guests, if you send each guest home with one of those favors to plant, that's 100 new trees! Green World Project offers evergreen tree seedlings and plants in a pot wedding favors.

If trees are your thing, think about donating to a cause of your choice. Perhaps there is a Charity that you relate too or has meaning to you and your fiance. You can give each of your guests a card that says you donated to "xyz" charity in their name. Of coarse it would be written on recycled paper!

Hope you can incorporate a little green in your wedding!

2009-01-01T18:02:00.001-05:00

Hope everyone has a Great 2009!