Wedding Cake Knowledge http://ping.fm/SpUeP
7/28/10
7/25/10
Slicing Up the Cake Options
When I get to heaven my buffet is going to be two sided. One side will be chocolate chip cookies piled two dozen deep and the other side will be covered in key lime pie. I'm not terribly selective though, I love all sweets, including cake.
I admit that helping brides do research on the design for their wedding cake is something I really enjoy. The artistic side of me appreciates the skill and time required to create many of the designs we see today and I love making recommendations that tie their entire theme together. The decision, of course, is totally theirs to make, particularly when it comes to selecting the flavor, or flavors, of the cake.
While I love all types of desserts nearly equally, I have to admit that when it comes comparing cookie against cookie, I definitely have favorites. I'm not sure that it was so true with cake until I began to attend tastings with brides, but, boy, can I separate the cream from the milk now! Because I have sampled so many cakes from so many bakeries, I can now discern the nuances between a painstakingly crafted cake made with the freshest ingredients to a mediocre cake and to a box cake. Hands down, the cakes created with fresh ingredients by true bakers have the most pleasurable taste and texture.
However, this extra care and these special ingredients increase the cost of the cake significantly and therefore, not every bride and groom will be able to afford this in their budget. On the upside, since you have most likely not experienced the difference the more expensive cake offers, you're not going to be disappointed in the taste and texture of your cake and neither will your guests.
Here's a list of a few items that can affect the cost of your wedding cake as well as some tips on how to reduce the cost:
1) Size does matter. Don't purchase more cake than you need. You can also consider a smaller cake with another dessert selection.
2) Design and assembly difficulty will have an impact on your bottom line. Clip photos of several different cake designs you like and bring them with you to the tasting. The baker will be able to let you know which will affect the price the most dramatically.
3) Cake flavors can affect price particularly if you begin adding fresh fruit fillings, specialty cream fillings, or extravagant flavors. Don't go crazy, remember, your guests have to eat this!
4) Changing flavors from layer to layer sometimes adds additional cost. Think about it, it is much faster to create a cake from one flavor, one type of filling, and one type of icing.
5) Fondant typically increases cost. There are some bakeries that do an excellent job of creating a fondant look with tasty buttercream icing. However, not all designs are doable in buttercream.
6) Don't forget to inquire about delivery and setup fees as well as rental deposits. Unless you're providing a cake stand or having it displayed on a covered board supplied by the bakery, there will be a charge for that lovely cake stand that your baker offers. (Talk to your planner about creative options!)
How to trim costs:
1) The right wedding planner will make bakery recommendations that fit within your budget and your style.
2) Sheet cakes can sometimes be cut in the kitchen and served to guests as extra cake. However, some bakers will still create a 4" high slice so it looks like the real deal, which means you won't save much money.
3) If you're daring, pick up the cake yourself, saving the delivery fee. This is not advised for cakes requiring setup!
4) As mentioned above, offer less expensive desserts for guests...cookies, fruit, small tarts, bulk petit fours, etc.
5) Chooose a simple design and decorate it with flowers you provide.
6) Consider making the cake look taller with creative elements.
Bottom line is that you don't have to spend a fortune to have a wedding cake that is stunning and delicious. Take a peak at these samples of simple cakes that make a big statement.
7/13/10
What About Wedding Insurance?
Oftentimes, the last thing on one’s mind when approaching their wedding day is that of wedding insurance.
So what happens after you fork out oodles of money for that special day and then something goes wrong? It could be the inebriated friend of the family or a youngster who simply doesn’t know any better. I know, we like to think that this occurrence is an impossibility on the happiest day of two people’s lives, BUT, wouldn’t we all like to have the peace of mind just in case?
Ultimately the decision of investing in wedding insurance rests upon those purchasing it. However, we at Details can supply you with the inside scoop on the subject.
First things first, how much do I need?
Ask your ceremony or reception site. They want their clients to be happy. Happiness breeds references. References breed business. They will be up front and guide you to the amount of coverage that makes both parties the most comfortable.
Exactly what will it cover?
Coverage is directly related to the amount you spend. Oftentimes wedding insurance requires a one-time payment and, in turn, will cover most venues insurance requirements (e.g. Liability and property damage).
How much are we talkin’?
One time premiums oftentimes run from $75 (level 1) to $235 (level 3).
If you are looking to have more coverage, aggregate policies tend to range from $500,000 to $1 million.
The good news when it comes to wedding insurance lies in the fact that there are many different coverage levels. After some research, your perfect peace of mind is easily found.
~Andy
6/21/10
Glitter Beyond the Engagement Ring
Aside from her engagement ring (which she obviously dreams about since the day she begins playing with her mother and grandmothers’ jewelry), a bride may not be thinking much about wedding day jewelry or the traditions behind it.While nowadays the theme seems to be “less is more” in regards to wedding jewelry, a bride still may want to incorporate significant pieces of jewelry – like a grandmother’s pearl 
earrings or her mother’s diamond necklace. This will obviously contribute to the “something borrowed” or “something old” portion of that particular tradition.
earrings or her mother’s diamond necklace. This will obviously contribute to the “something borrowed” or “something old” portion of that particular tradition. If the bride doesn’t have any family heirlooms she can borrow or wants to wear, she can always buy her own or even rent estate jewelry. You read that right – it is possible to rent 
beautiful jewelry for your wedding day. This is a great option for brides who want to look lavish but don’t have the money to purchase their own authentic jewels. Here are some resources for renting and purchasing jewelry for your special day:
beautiful jewelry for your wedding day. This is a great option for brides who want to look lavish but don’t have the money to purchase their own authentic jewels. Here are some resources for renting and purchasing jewelry for your special day:Whatever a bride chooses to do for her wedding jewelry, she is sure to look beautiful and she should feel that way as well!
~Meg
6/15/10
6/13/10
Decisions, Decisions
This post is written by our Columbus, Ohio intern, Andy! Meet Andy in a future blog post but for now, enjoy his first Details post!
Whether it’s a pool-side cabana or a scenic bike ride through the hills of wine country there is no doubt picking that “perfect” honeymoon destination for you and yours can sometimes be difficult. Consider for a second, just a few of the variables factoring into perhaps the most memorable get-away in the journey we call marriage; travel time, budget, hotel atmosphere, dining options, the time of year and even crime rate all factor into this post-nuptial celebration. Yes, this task can sometimes seem intimidating but after careful consideration by you and your spouse-to-be everything else will fall into place.
For your assistance, we have composed a list of the “Top Five” when it comes to honeymoon destinations.
Acapulco, Mexico – It doesn’t matter if it is December or July when considering this destination for your special get-away. Temperatures hang in the mid 80s year around. As for your budget, don’t sweat, because this resort can offer you nightly rates for just a pinch over $200. Also enjoy the full slate of fun filled activities provided at the Real. Swimming, snorkeling, horse backing and golf to name a few.
2)Walt Disney World Resorts
Orlando, Florida – Live out your very own fairy tale at the most magical place on earth. Newly-weds often overlook the versatility that a place such as Walt Disney World provides. Disney offers much more than simply visiting the park itself. Enjoy packages including time at the resort as well as three-day cruises to various destinations around Florida’s perimeter offering the ultimate bang for your buck.
Las Vegas, Nevada – Why not Vegas? Even if you didn’t escape to elope you can still escape to celebrate your new life together. Do you want pampered, or does your budget call for more modest dwellings? Either way, Vegas provides more than enough options to create the perfect honeymoon get-away. Romantic dinners, night-life, fun in the sun and quaint garden walks are all at the finger tips of those choosing this destination.
What kind of honeymoon list doesn’t include Hawaii? Every square inch of The Aloha State provides the romantic feel that every new couple yearns for. Lounge on the picturesque beaches, attend a native luau and then rent a car and see Hawaii from top to bottom. After you have experienced everything Hawaii has to offer, sit back and enjoy a beautiful Hawaiian sunset.
For a honeymoon fit for royalty, head to Florence. This ultimate Mediterranean escape with breath-taking cathedrals, cultured galleries and robust restaurants will etch unforgettable memories. Florence also provides the option of visiting other Italian must-see destinations such as Venice, Rome and the Amalfi coast.
No matter what destination is right for you and your bride or groom, remember, in the midst of the one you love, imperfection is an impossibility.
~Andy
*A personal note from Jami: Florence will not disappoint!
6/10/10
Stress Less Dress Shopping
"No one tells you how stressful dress shopping can be!"
- Gather images from online or from magazines that portray elements you like. It doesn't have to be a complete look, although it can be. The lace from this one, the length from that one, and so forth are all helpful. Create a folder or scrapbook with these images, noting what you like about each. Take this with you to give the sales clerk a better understanding of your desires.
- Bridal salons are busiest in the first half of the year and on Saturdays. If possible, try to schedule an appointment mid-week for the best service.
- Speaking of service. If you're sales clerk doesn't make you feel special, move on.
- Determine your budget before you go and don't forget to include alterations and accessories.
- Don't let a clerk show you dresses out of your budget unless you are willing to ignore the line you've set for yourself. Often, there's a reason expensive dresses are more expensive; largely due to the fit or drape, which will obviously look better!
- Make sure all details are in writing and follow up a few weeks after placing the order to make sure everything is still on track.
- Show up on time for fittings. Have fun, but take it seriously. Don't waste the clerk's time! Staying on his/her good side will benefit you if issues come up!
Have some fun playing with Design Your Own Wedding Dress!
~Jami
Designers, top to bottom: Douglas Hannant, Ines di Santo, Lazaro, Priscilla of Boston
5/25/10
So You've Fallen for a Techie
I admit that sometimes my brain is fried and I struggle to come up with a blog topic that will be informative and fun for our readers. We've been very busy the last few weeks and, obviously, we did not get a post up last Monday and we're behind again this week, so the pressure was/is on to produce something that will engage you. Then, BAM! (Who says that? Emeril?) an idea hits you like a rock between the eyes. This particular rock was courtesy of my 18 year old son, who sent me the photo below. If nothing else, I hope you find the post entertaining, whether you are a techie, you love a techie, or you just know a techie.
This is a "code" cupcake tree!
The image brought a smile to my face, especially since it came from my son. Now, he's not usually into this whole "wedding thing", but obviously, he found this image entertaining and wanted to share it with me. His future wedding cake? I don't know, but what I do know is this...
- A tech-theme is sure to put a smile on your guests' faces and to create a memory for both you and them.
- This could be a great way to get the groom involved and excited about the festivities that come before the honeymoon.
- The possibilities are endless, even if the budget is not.
So what would be some options for creating that tech feel? I've listed a few below, but please, share your ideas with us, too!
- Spectacular lighting will be huge in pulling off this theme. Your lighting supplier (not the DJ!) and your planner can provide you will a multitude of options. And if your budget allows, incorporate LED lit cocktail tables and bars!
- Use a real audio visual company to discuss options for various screens in a variety of locations which are capturing the action live. Perfect when Uncle Joe has had too many drinks and begins to dance!
- Lit "ice" cubes. Not so high-tech, but certainly adds to the fun factor.
- Dancing...are you in to techno music :) Some suppliers also have lit dance floors.
- For centerpieces, why not incorporate hardware into the floral designs as well as LEDs?
- Ah yes, and that video presentation that everyone is doing? Why not make yours a 3-D experience :)
- Favors are easy. At any given time there's a vast array of techie gadgets or lookalikes (think Iphone cookies or motherboard photo frames) that can be shared with your guests.
The most important thing to remember is that this is YOUR day. Express who you are, have some fun, and create a memory.
~Jami
5/11/10
How to Ensure Your Friends are Still That . . . AFTER Your Wedding
(Selecting bridesmaid dresses)
When you first ask your bosom buddies to be in your wedding party for the big day, the bond of sisterhood you had grows exponentially, and you immediately start discussing every detail of your wedding. You imagine the flowers, the lighting, the music, and then begin to approach that ever touchy subject. It has been the age old haunt of the bride’s best friends since the very first wedding ceremony: the bridesmaid dress.
You don’t want to be overshadowed by your bridesmaids looking simply fantastic on the wedding day, but you don’t want your friends to suffer the tragedy of pastels, bows, and tulle either. I mean, these are the girls who are throwing your bachelorette party; you don’t want to upset them. So what do you do?
Here are a few ideas to get things going in a positive direction.
Girls Night. Have all of you bridesmaids get together for an evening of bonding about 6 months before the wedding, if not earlier. Have everyone bring in their favorite dress or a photo of their ideal dress, including yourself. Talk about what makes each dress special to them. This will give you an idea of what your favorite girls are most comfortable in. You will have some ideas of what to look for, and your bridesmaids are reassured that you are keeping their interest in mind.
Make a list! Once you have a good idea of what your bridesmaids like, figure out what YOU want. Brainstorm what you are looking for. What colors are you interested in? Do you want long or short dresses? Do you want dresses at all? Do you want the dresses to match exactly or have little differences? Will the maid of honor be wearing anything unique? Do you want to get accessories such as hats, wraps, or handbags? What can you and/or your bridesmaids afford? Make a wish list of the key features you're looking for, and then share that list with your bridesmaids. It has always been this blogger's experience that a list of goals makes searching for anything simpler.
Time to browse. Go online or to local shops and see what is available. Your options are nearly limitless when it comes to bridesmaids dresses. There are even online sites where you can create a virtual wedding party and see what everyone will look like on the big day. (Give this site a try Dress Your Wedding by David's Bridal). You can be traditional, exotic, summery, alternative, formal or casual all from the comfort of your laptop!
It is important to remember that everyone is going to have an opinion and it will be stressful. But, if you know what you are looking for things will go much smoother! Have those bridesmaids try on their dresses well in advance. If you avoid giant ruffles and bows, your friends will still be there after the reception!
~ Andrea
Meet Andrea! She's one of our newest Columbus, Ohio staff members and will be focusing on the bridal side of our business. Contact her at 614.448.1253 or andrea@detailsplanningcompany.com to schedule a complimentary consultation!5/5/10
Set the Scene
Ah, beautiful, isn't it? The hills of Tuscany. Is there a more beautiful location in which to marry? Even if you, as the bride and groom, had the money to fly off to Italy and marry in the countryside many of your friends and family may not be able to afford such extravagance. Rather than take your guests to the location, why not bring the location to them? Yes, it's doable! There are companies that create massive backdrops in a variety of scenes and sizes that allow planners to transform any space into the clients' fantasy (visit Grosh or Backdrops Fantastic) . And, believe it or not, it's not as hard on the budget as you might think. Once you've decided you wish to look into this option and you've determined your budget will allow it, you'll want to consider your venue. If you've just booked the stately mansion with historic woodwork knee deep you won't want to cover that beauty with an artificial backdrop. However, if you're considering the popular hotel banquet room that leaves much to the imagination then let's invite your guests to do just that! It is recommended that you let your professional planner do the research for you which will include researching options that fit your theme and budget as well as conducting a site preview at the venue to determine the exact size and location for the backdrop. They'll also ensure on-time delivery and setup so that when you and your guests enter the space, you're transported to a whole new world.
To further enhance your theme, a professional planner can compile a variety of resources such as specialty linens, ambient lighting, floral and other elements. For instance, did you know that for as little as $35 each you can rent European-style street lamps? Imagine those with a few rented topiaries and a backdrop of the Eiffel Tower . . . your guests' jaws will drop! What a beautiful way to create a memorable event. Call us at 920.364.0212 or 614.448.1253 to learn more.
A princess must have her castle!
Rent a series of these to pull off that jazzy penthouse vibe.
Are you a political junkie? Stars and Stripes forever!
For those winter brides, set the scene and let us create a winter wonderland with beautiful accessories!
Looking to have some fun? Oh, think of the flower arrangements and table linens that could accompany this Dr. Suess backdrop!
Van Gogh will never fail to impress. Add beautiful perimeter lighting in blues and a few dramatic linens for a sophisticated and artsy theme.
What's your favorite? If you could have anything, what type of backdrop what would you incorporate?
~Jami
4/26/10
Getting Fit for Your Wedding
Website
Every bride wants to look perfect on her wedding day. Selecting a dress that will make you look and feel great is an important first step. But what happens when you look in the mirror and notice trouble spots like saggy arms or unsightly folds in your back? What about the honeymoon? No doubt your bachelorette party has left you showered with gifts of barely-there undergarments and a skimpy little bikini to sport on the beach. But what if you’re butt doesn’t quite fit into that bikini, and you don’t feel confident enough to pull off that racy lingerie? When this happens it’s not uncommon for brides to try quick-fix diets to help them get in shape. Unfortunately, many dieting brides make fitness mistakes that not only prevent them from reaching their goals but also cause unnecessary stress and sometimes even illness. Those are two things no bride needs! Personal Training is a great way to get in shape just in time for that special day, that day when all eyes are on you.
Everyone who has tried knows that losing weight is no easy feat. It’s hard to get to the gym when you’re just not motivated, or maybe you have no clue where to begin. Not to mention, that huge sweaty guy checking you out while you try to find your way around the dumbbells. Talk about feeling uncomfortable! But is personal training for you? If you’ve tried to stick to a fitness plan more than once and have failed to succeed, chances are a trainer is just the person you need to talk to. A lot of people shy away from hiring a trainer because of financial reasons but they are well worth the investment. Think about the things you spend your money on now; clothes, hair, nails, tanning? Wouldn’t all that money be better spent to pamper a fit body that you are proud of? Personal training fees vary, so just like anything else, do some bargain shopping and look around. Outside of the cost though, it’s important to find a trainer you feel comfortable with, one you can connect with, and most importantly, one you trust to push you and hold you accountable to your goals. Taking that into account, paying a little extra for a trainer you trust is probably a smart move.
Hiring a personal trainer is a great idea for any bride trying to feel and look her very best on her special day. Furthermore, the changes it will make on your body will leave that bride healthier and more fit even after her special day has come and gone. Healthy and fit to raise a family, healthy and fit to start a new life with your spouse. Talk to a trainer near you today and see what they have to offer! It’s not a decision that you’ll regret.4/19/10
Bucking Tradition
So much of a wedding is based on tradition and while so many brides say they want a non-traditional ceremony, when it comes right down to it they're still incorporating many of those time-tested elements. Which will you incorporate and why? Are there any listed below that you are determined not to include simply because of the traditional meaning? Will you use them and create new meaning? We'd like to know your thoughts!
Something Old – represents the bond to the bride’s family and her old life
Something New – represents the couple’s new life together
Something Borrowed – should be from a happily married woman so as to pass along that happiness
White Wedding Dress – symbolizes purity
Throwing Rice – believed to bestow fertility on the couple
Sharing the First Piece of Wedding Cake – creates a special bond of sweetness between the couple (Unless, of course, he smashes it in her face at which point the sweetness ends!)
First Kiss – represents the joining of their souls and the agreement to a lifelong commitment
Groom’s Boutonniere – A statement of love for his bride
Bride’s Flowers – promote good luck
Wedding Ring on the Third Finger of the Left Hand – denotes eternal love as the “vein of love” runs directly from the ring finger to the heart
Diamond Ring – symbolizes purity and strength
Veil – symbolizes a wife’s purity and modesty as well as submission to her husband
Lifting of the Veil – if the groom lifts it, it symbolizes his dominance. if the bride lifts it, she is presenting herself to him and showing independence
Child Attendants – signify innocence
White Aisle Runner – symbolizes God’s holiness and walking on holy ground
Unity Candle – signifies two families coming together
Arc of Swords – ensures the couple’s safe entry into a new life together
Last, but not least, if you get hit by a shoe, it’s good luck. Who decided this?!
~ Jami
4/13/10
It’s your wedding day…put your best face forward!
It must be every bride’s nightmare that on her wedding day she will wake up with an enormous blemish on her face. The scrambling to camouflage that embarrassing third eye or begging the photographer to Photoshop your face is something that can be prevented so that you can be the radiant and glowing bride you have dreamt of! As an esthetician, brides come to me in a panic that their skin is dull, lagging, and scaly and they need help fixing it…but sadly by the time they come to see me (usually a week before the wedding for the makeup trial application) it is just not enough time for a quick fix. Here are some helpful tips on how to achieve the healthiest skin for a result you can be rest assured will help you sleep at night!
Cleanse twice a day with a non-soap based cleanser fit for your skin type (gel works great for oily skin, cream is better for dry skin). If you can only cleanse once a day make sure it is before you go to bed. While we sleep the magic skin fairy comes and helps repair the daily damage so it’s easier if she’s working on a clean palate.
Tone your skin after cleansing! On the technical side of things, your skin has a natural pH balance around 5 on the pH scale…product, environment, and temperature all do things to throw the pH balance off. Keep bringing your skin back to home base in order to maintain proper function and product efficiency.
Moisturize – even if you have an oily complexion. If you deny the skin moisture it will essentially freak out and try to overcompensate for what you are not giving it – hence the oil slick! If you have an oily complexion just pick out a moisturizer that is oil-free so that it is lighter. Be sure to apply moisturizer before your skin gets that dry and crackly feeling so that it can penetrate and get to work faster!
Those tips are just the ‘outside-in’ guides, so keep in mind all lifestyle factors (inside-out) as well and incorporate healthy habits because after all you really are what you eat! Drink plenty of water, eat foods rich in healthy fats (avocado, fish, nuts, dark leaf veggies and bright colored fruits), and get moderate exercise to purge toxins out!
~ Brooke (licensed esthetician & owner of b.scrubbed natural face and body exfoliants)
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