Jack of All Trades... Er Cards

We just love this idea.

Jack Cards is the perfect solution to the busy person.  Or the forgetful person.  Or just any person.

It's an online store for greeting cards.  You choose one and Jack will mail it to you already addressed and stamped.  You add your personal note and pop it in the mailbox!

You can pre-order cards and schedule them to arrive a few weeks before the important date.

No more forgetting cards and misplacing the stack of cards you bought.  They'll just appear in the mail as your reminder to send them out!

Perfect for the wedding, holiday cards, birthdays, anniversaries - anything!!

A Splash of Pink Sweetness

We had an amazing time at Prima Bridal Show on Sunday!

We joined forces with Victoria from Romance of Flowers with floral design, Patti from Table Toppers with linens, and Sue from Loane Bros with the tent and furniture.

We are so grateful to Victoria who really made lemonade out of lemons with the potted tree that unexpectedly appeared in our tent.  The tree wasn't movable so Victoria added cherry blossom branches and Patti dressed up the pot with linens.  We used it to display our photo albums which made the whole effect look entirely on purpose.  It was a great example of how sometimes we just have to take what we're given and make it look like we had it planned all along!

We spoiled our Brides with Pink Champagne and Pink Cotton Candy.  The cotton candy was a huge hit and perfectly accented our pink, black, and white color story.

Despite some misting early in the morning the Brides and their guests showed up cheerful and ready to chat about their weddings.  Our tent was packed the entire show!

Many thanks to all of the everyone who attended Prima 2008 - vendors and brides!

Get excited for Prima 2009!

Wedding Week on the Food Network

This week is Wedding Week on the Food Network.

There will be shows with all sorts of menu ideas and special surprises for your guests. And our very own Baltimore celebrity, Duff Goldman of Ace of Cakes, will have a series of shows featuring his creative cakes.

For details visit the Food Network website.

And yes, that's really cake you see above. It's the cake the Charm City Cakes crew made for the Harry Potter premiere.

Miss Us?

We're going to be at the Prima Bridal Show at Green Spring Station in Lutherville today from 12 - 3.  Stop by and see in our fabulous tent!  Just look for all of the sweet pink delicious-ness.

If you don't have a ticket yet, they are available at the door for $20.00 per bride.  All guests of the bride are free!

Need directions or more information?  www.PrimaBridalShow.com

Can't make it?  Silly enough to live out of state?  We'll have pictures up in no time!

America's Next Top Bride - An Introduction

In this installment of America's Next Top Bride Sara shares how she met John.

"John and I met as students at Georgetown University. We were both varsity athletes (me- volleyball, John- football) and had several mutual friends, but did not know each other. Well, he didn't know about me! I had a huge crush on John since the first time I saw him, about a year before we actually met. Unfortunately, he had a girlfriend the time, so that was obviously a non-starter! We "officially" met one night at a party celebrating the end of the football season at my neighbor's house (a teammate of John's) where, when there was no place to sit, I asked to sit on his lap! He was surprised to say the least, but quickly assured me that he didn't mind. We have been together (five years!) ever since. I always tell him that, sometimes, good fortune just falls in your lap!"

Bridal Polish

OPI has some of the most fun nail polish names around.

We love these for their Nuptial Names.  Pick a fun name for your pre-wedding pedicure!

Bride's Bouquet

Catch the Garter

Honeymoon Sweet

Mimosas for Mr. and Mrs.!

Bridesmaids of a Different Color

We just love this idea.

Jenna Bush is dressing her bridesmaids (all 14 of them!) in hues "inspired by Texas wildflowers". All of the gowns are designed by Lela Rose. Their shapes are meant to flatter each of the girls and all feature pockets - perfect for lipstick!

We've seen some of our brides dress their girls in different colors and shapes, too!

Image and text from People.com

Prima - This Sunday!

We can't wait to see you at Prima - Baltimore's Premier Bridal Show on Sunday, April 27th at Green Spring Station in Lutherville between Noon and 3.

There will be a variety of Baltimore's Best Wedding Vendors, Door Prizes, and a fabulous embroidered tote bag full of goodies.

Be sure to sign up at www.PrimaBridalShow.com soon, tickets are going fast!

Every Bride Should Know #6

Every Bride Should Know

1.  Just try on a veil.  It will complete the bridal look for you and take you from 'girl in white gown' to bride.  Plus, you can always take it off after the ceremony.

2.  Keep it to yourself.  Try not to share the details of the wedding with friends and family.  It spoils the wow factor and you won't have to deal with all of those opinions.

3.  Regrets.  We've seen a consistent 20% decline rate for wedding invitations over the past few years.  Just make sure that you can accommodate all of your invited guests at your venue.  And remember, regrets always come in last!

Pink and White and Black All Over

We love this color palette of pink, white, and black. We're going to use it soon - can you guess where?

Images from Wildflower Linens, Brides, BBJ Linen

Feather your Head

We're seeing a lot of feathers as bridal hair accessories in Europe and we love the look.  A feather adorned hair comb can be worn with the veil or added after the ceremony is complete.

These hair combs can be purchased through your bridal salon or online.  We found this one from Leah C Couture Millinery.  You can also have a design custom created to suit your look and gown.

A Home Run

Baltimore area hotels are constantly changing and we love to see the results.  We were invited to see all of the renovations at the Baltimore Marriott Inner Harbor at Camden Yards and they look terrific!

Karen Russell and Heather Al-Zein treated us to a tour of the ballroom spaces, lounge, restaurant, guest rooms, and concierge level.

We loved the new decor in the ballrooms and nearly snuggled into the cozy looking beds.  We also saw two different kinds of suites that would be perfect for hair and makeup on wedding day.

Thank you Karen and Heather for the warm welcome and the great conversation!

Dancing with the Stars!

We were so happy to be a part of The Memory Ball for the Alzheimer's Association on April 5th. The event was a huge success raising over $126,000 for support groups, help lines, and research.

The success of the event was due, in no small part, to the participation of the stars that made up the "Dancing with the Stars" program for the evening. Many thanks to this years Stars: Dr. and Mrs. Majid Fotuhi, Dorothy Hamill & Tim Murphy, Heather Keller, Diane Lyn, Dr. and Mrs. Peter Rabins, Molly Shattuck, Brandy Washington, and Dr. and Mrs. Samuel Ross.

We look forward to being a part of Memory Ball 2009!

Want to donate? Visit the Alzheimer's Association website.

We Love to Luncheon

Many thanks to Ann Arnett at the Radisson Plaza Lord Baltimore for hosting a terrific wedding planner luncheon on Thursday.  The chefs prepared a delicious menu and presented everything so beautifully.

We love to socialize with other local planners and industry professionals.  The intimate luncheon followed by a site tour of the Lord Baltimore was just perfect.

The recent renovations at the hotel are nearing completion and are just gorgeous.  Wonderful attention to detail while still maintaining the period details.

Crabby a-TIE-re

We love this idea.  Vineyard Vines has these great crabby ties in 3 colors - light blue, yellow, and raspberry.

Perfect for your groomsmen and fathers!

Not feeling crabby?  These have practically any pattern you can imagine.

Add a Splash of Color

5 Great Ways to Add Color to you Wedding Day Look

1.  Shoes.  Use your favorite color from the overall wedding look and find shoes to match.  You could also find them in a color that matches your bridesmaids gown or use them as your something blue.  Find these Stuart Weitzman's on Nordstrom.

2.  Jewelry.  Maybe they're antique earrings or a piece that your grandmother loved, but they can add some sparkling color to your look.

3.  Crinoline.  It is possible to have your crinoline dyed to give a peek of your favorite hue.  Directions are all over the internet.  This image came from an bride with Blush Events in CA.

4.  Wrap.  Perfect if you want the option to lose the color, a wrap can be worn when you want it and tossed when you're through.  Match your bridesmaids or pick your own shade.  This image was a Real Wedding on Brides.com

5.  Pedicure.  Open shoes or closed your pedicure can give your toes a splash of fun.  Plus, you want something fresh for your honeymoon.

Beauty Timeline

You're going to look radiant and amazing on your wedding day.  Here are our tips on how to get there.

This schedule assumes your wedding is on a Saturday.  Adjust accordingly for your wedding date.

Tanning:  Do a test run of self tanning or whatever tanning system you plan to use for the wedding a few months before the wedding, if desired.  You want to be sure you don't have any adverse reactions.

Facials:  If you're just starting a facial regime then start about 6 months before your wedding.  Talk with your esthetician about your skin care approach.  Schedule your final facial 7-10 days before your wedding day.  Do not schedule a facial within a month of the wedding if you have never had one in the past.

Waxing:  Complete your waxing one week before the wedding.  This will allow all of the swelling to subside.

Friday:

*Manicures and Pedicures.  Make sure there aren't any more deliveries or tasks left to complete.  You don't want to risk chipping your nails.

*Get some sleep!  They don't call it beauty sleep for no reason.

Saturday:

*Work with your stylist and wedding planner to finalize the hair and makeup schedule.  Your hair and makeup will take an 1-2 hours.  The schedule should have your look completed after the bridesmaids.

*Remember, you step into your dress.  It never goes over your freshly done hair and makeup.

*Smile and have a great time.  A happy bride is always beautiful.

Chocolate and Red

This inspiration board did exactly what it was supposed to do.  It helped the groom see the bride's vision and help him understand the colors she had been talking about.  We love success!

images from theknot, wedding channel, and brides

America's Next Top Bride

Recognize this famous face? We are thrilled to be helping Sara Albert, from America's Next Top Model Season 6, with her August 2008 wedding to John Hallmark.

In the America's Next Top Bride blog series we'll be following Sara and John on their wedding planning journey.

Wedding Day Handbag

As if you need an excuse to buy a sweet little bridal handbag, but there are a few things you need to have with you on your big day.

1.  Lipstick.  Ask your makeup artist about this during your trial.  She may include it in your fee or ask that you purchase it separately.

2.  Powder or blotting papers.  Depending on the time of year you marry and your complexion you may want to have have something to keep away the shine.

3.  Hotel room key card.  Just in case you want to sleep later.

4.  Hankie.  Keep it in your purse until you get to the church, then carry it down the aisle.

You shouldn't need:

1.  Your cell phone.  As long as your wedding planner has all of the important phone numbers there won't be a need for it.  Plus, isn't everyone you love with you?

2.  Your camera.  Every single guest will have a camera and you've actually hired someone to take pictures.  Save your battery for the honeymoon.

Your Wedding Planner will have:

Everything you can imagine...  safety pins, needle and thread, chalk, mints, scissors, pins, etc. etc. etc.

Eva Longoria carried this Rafe Totengco clutch in her wedding to Tony Parker.

Every Bride Should Know #5

Every Bride Should Know

1.  Go to the bathroom just before you put on your gown.  It should go without saying, but make sure it happens.

2.  The best age for flowers girls and ring bearers is between 4 and 9 years old.  It's always best if they've been in school and know how to be a "line leader".

3.  If you're planning on dance lessons - start early.  Things get hectic and your schedule will be a bit more full as the wedding day approaches.  If you don't start early you may choose to forget it.

Cheers!

As we approach wedding season it's time for a refresher on proper toasting etiquette.

Typically the reception is opened with a Welcome from the Father of the Bride.  He welcomes everyone to the wedding, shares his joy, and acknowledges special guests.  The Best Man then offers his toast to the Bride and Groom, followed by an optional blessing of the meal by an honored guest or clergy.

Some may also choose to add the Maid of Honor's toast to the wedding day, however it is also very appropriate at the Rehearsal Dinner.

A few hints on having a great toast:

*Take a glass of champagne with you

*The toast should be no longer than 2 minutes

*Start things off with an introduction and explanation of yours relationship to Groom

*Be sure to acknowledge the hosts of the Event

*You must mention the Bride at some point - preferable something about how she is wonderful

*You can include a cute story about how the Bride and Groom met

*When you're finished raise your glass and propose a toast!

Cheers!

Just please don't...

*Mention past relationships, tell off color jokes, or be offensive

*Drone on endlessly.  Short and sweet is always best

*Tell stories about childhood and/or college unless they are relevant to the wedding or the bride and the groom

*Mention the rehearsal dinner - unless everyone at the wedding was also present the night before

*Try to embarrass the Bride or Groom

And remember...

The Rehearsal Dinner is the perfect opportunity for additional toasts from friends and family.  

Great Bridesmaids Gifts

3 Great Bridesmaids Gifts

For the Traveler:  Travel Jewelry Case

It will keep all of her baubles from getting tangled in transit - she may even be tempted to visit 

more often.  Find it on Red Envelope

For Sentimental One:  Photo Album

Create a custom photo album of all of your favorite photos together.  Easy to make on Snapfish, Shutterfly, Kodak, or your Mac.

For the Entertainer:  Your favorite recipe book and a serving dish

A wonderful excuse for everyone to get together after the honeymoon.  Find it on Amazon

What was your favorite bridesmaids gift?  Post it on the comments.

Great Groomsmen Gifts

3 Great Ideas for your Groomsmen

For the Techie:  Solar Gadget Charger

Great for phone, ipods, even laptops.  To win extra points add an ipod filled with songs you guys love.  Find it on RedEnvelope

For the Tailgater:  Portable Grill with Cooler and Tool Set

Perfect for tailgating, the beach, the park, or your backyard.  Find it on Amazon

For the Gamer: Personalized Poker Set

An excuse to have a boys night to test out the new sets.  Find it on Groom Stand

What is your favorite groomsmen gift?  Post it on the comments.

JCrew for your Crew

Did you know about all of the fabulous wedding things JCrew has to offer?

Not only can the outfit your bridesmaids - but also your flower girl, ring bearer, your groom, even you!

Perfect for a bride seeking a simple silhouette or that second reception gown.

They even offer a custom monogrammed label with your new married monogram - the perfect something blue.

We've seen this label done a few times recently and it's a great photo. We have a local source - just ask!

Every Bride Should Know #4

Every Bride Should Know

1. Registries can be created online at many popular stores. It may be easier to start the process online then go to the store with your fiance to finish the details. It's okay to check up on your registry to make sure the items you wish to receive are still available. And, no matter what, those convenient registry note cards they will give you should go straight in the recycling bin.

2. Yes, you can have an uneven number of women and men in the bridal party. They can be paired up for the recessional and your pictures will turn out great. Don't fret about making it symmetrical.

3. Snacks and drinks in the bridal suite while everyone is having hair and makeup and getting dressed are essential. You can even have it all delivered without using room service through the hotel. Water, Sprite, and other clear drinks are best.

Brides Against Breast Cancer

The Brides Against Breast Cancer event will be held

April 25 10am - 8pm and April 26 9am - 2pm.

This free event is held at the Crowne Plaza in Hunt Valley.

For more information on the event visit the website.

The event showcases used and new gowns that are donated by designers and past brides.  They range in price from $99 to $799.  The proceeds go towards making memories and wishes come true for breast cancer patients.

You can also donate your gown - find out how on the Making Memories Website.

Make it a whole wedding weekend!  Sunday, April 27th is the Prima Bridal Show!

Feelin Hot

With warm weather on the horizon (thank goodness!) we're beginning to think about all of our wonderful, outdoor tented weddings.  They're gorgeous, they're one of a kind, they're well... hot.

It gets warm, muggy, humid, and hot here in Maryland in the summertime.  We have a few ways of dealing with the heat and keeping our guests as cool as little cucumbers.

Parasols:

Provide parasols for use during the ceremony.  They give your guests instant shade and add a splash of color to your photos.

Beverages:

Set up a station serving ice water, lemonade, or an alcohol free summertime drink for the guests before the ceremony begins.

Fans:

Hand held fans give an instant breeze when they're isn't one to be found.  Set them on each ceremony chair.  There are tons of options in all budget levels.  And if you want a super cool idea for fans - just ask us...

Colors:

Using blues, greens, and purples in your linens and floral arrangements give your guests a cool mindset.

Flip Flops:

We love setting out a basket of flip flops for guests who are dying to dance, but not in those heels.  They can keep their feet cool and save their pedicure from walking around barefoot.

Parasol image from Brides.com

In Local News

This years Memory Ball Baltimore is this Saturday evening.  We're so happy to be able to help out with such a wonderful event.  The Memory Ball raises funds for the Alzheimer's Association through ticket sales and their celebrity "Dancing with the Stars" style dance off.

For information about tickets and donating please visit the the Memory Ball website.  

You can always vote for a dancer and donate - even if you can't make it to the Ball.

Garnish - it's not just parsley anymore

We stopped by to see our friend Mia at Garnish Boutique this afternoon.  Garnish is a wonderful resource for bridesmaids dresses, gowns for mothers, and flower girl dresses.

They also have a line of bridal gowns that are perfect for quick turnarounds, second weddings, or reception gowns.  If you're going for something simple then this is a great resource.

We love Garnish because of their attention to detail, personal service, and modern approach.

Mia's Tip:  Shades of green and blue have been very popular for this wedding season.  These cool colors are wonderful for hot, summer, Baltimore nuptials.

We are also thrilled to be a part of Mia's own wedding in June 2009.  It's going to be fabulous!