Details, a professional planning company

2012-02-14T14:00:00.001-06:00

Express Your True Love (and let us help!)http://ping.fm/ls6ly

Express Your Love!

2012-02-14T13:42:00.001-06:00

Valentine'sDay is here! Some may be feeling cupids arrows already, and some not quite. Ihope both will appreciate this holiday. We are reminded to reach out, showappreciation, and love for those we love in our lives; be it your husband/wife,boyfriend/girlfriend, family members, or maybe your undying love is still asecret that you want to reveal!

MakeValentines Day 2012 special this year! Be sincere with your love notes to thosespecial people. Of course you can still get the bracelet, ring, or romanticnight at a hotel, there's no kidding there! But remember, those moments and items are more meaningful andmemorable when accompanied by the words of your undying love. Written orspoken, share it!

Thisweek I have pursued a search to help those who are not good with their words.The following quotes and phrases are not my words, but see if any fulfill youremotions that you have. Think about using some of these words when expressingyour true feelings, and please share your thoughts or words of love. Today, sappy is perfectly acceptable :)

• "Take away love, andour earth is a tomb.” -Robert Browning

• "Since love growswithin you, so beauty grows. For love is the beauty of the soul.” -St. AureliusAugustine

• “To love is to receive aglimpse of heaven.” -Karen Sunde

• “Within you I lose myself.Without you I find myself wanting to become lost again.” -Author Unknown

• “The course of true lovenever did run smooth.” -William Shakespeare

• “Kiss me and you will see stars; love me and I will give them toyou.” -Lao-Tzu

• "Love doesn't make the world go round. Love is what makesthe ride worthwhile.” -Franklin Jones

• “To be your friend was all I ever wanted; to be your lover wasall I ever dreamed.” -Valerie Lombardo

• “Absence sharpens love, presence strengthens it.” -BenjaminFranklin

• "Love is not to be purchased, and affection has no price.”-St.Jerome

• “The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seenor even touched- they must be felt with the heart.” -Helen Keller

• "If a hug represented how much I love you, I would hold youin my arms forever.” -Mandy Hampton

• “You don't marry someone you can live with - you marry theperson who you cannot live without.” -Unknown Author

• “For it was not into my ear you whispered, but into my heart. Itwas not my lips you kissed, but my soul.” -Judy Garland

• "Where there is love there is life." - Gandhi

• A joyful heart is the inevitable result of a heart burning withlove.” ~Mother Teresa

• "It's a curiousthought, but it is only when you see people looking ridiculous that you realizejust how much you love them.” -Agatha Christie

~Danielle

2012-02-06T16:30:00.001-06:00

At a wedding have you been that guest scratching your head and wondering, what in the world is that couple doing?! As 2012 weddings are kicking off save yourself and keep up on cultural customs!
http://ping.fm/f6Iqe

Where In The World?

2012-02-06T16:10:00.000-06:00

We're going to head to Germany for this blog! There is a large influence of German heritage that is present here in Wisconsin, so I want to familiarize them with their many native rituals.

The fun begins weeks before the ceremony. In many small towns and villages across Germany a wedding inviter (Hochzeitslader) will visit friends, family, and others’ houses, to personally invite them to the wedding. The couple will make sure to choose someone who has a lot of character; see, he has to wear a top hat, ride a decorated bicycle from house to house, carry a cane with ribbons, and read a traditional poem. This may take many nights; the wedding inviter is often invited into the house and offered food and many drinks!! For people to accept the invitation, they must take a ribbon off the cane he carries, and secure it to his hat!

Following that, the groom/bride goes out with their friends (or all together) to do what's called junggesellenabschied, similar to bachelor/bachelorette party, but there is hazing/pranks done at the grooms expense. (These are not the only pranks that will be played throughout the next few days) Often, the grooms’ men make the groom wear any crazy costume they would like! This tradition also includes walking through town pulling a wagon and selling random items (boiled eggs for a dollar, a shot for a dollar).

A week before the ceremony neighbors will get together and have Kranzbinden. The men collect pine tree branches that will be tied and placed on front door of couples house, and the women will tie roses (made out of paper) and pin them to the branches on the door. That evening is a pre-wedding party for the neighbors. The couple must provide food and drinks for all!

Next, is the breaking of the dishes! Friends, family and acquaintances will smash dishes at the house of the bride and groom to be. Broken to bits and pieces the couple must sweep it up. This is done so that nothing will ever be broken in their house again. "Scherben bringen Glück" broken crockery brings you luck! The more broken pieces the more luck! Guests don't always stop breaking the dishes just because it has all been swept up once, so watch out for more smashing throughout the evening!

As for the wedding ceremony, the couple will wear their gold wedding bands on the right hand once wed. As the couple leaves the ceremony, guests throw rice at the couple and however many pieces of rice stay in the brides hair, is how many children the couple will have. After the ceremony, some newlyweds have discovered their home or hotel room booby-trapped with pranks from friends! (Random alarm clock placed around the room, set at different times/living room furniture from the house placed the on roof)

Once at the reception, it is popular for the best man to kidnap the bride and hide her. It is the grooms responsibility to search the town for her, which she typically happens to be at a pub. Once she is found the groom is responsible for the bill created by his loving bride and best man.

Since 1450 a tradition from Nuremberg has appeared at many receptions. During dinner there is a special cup that the bride and groom must share, and drink from together at the same time. It's tricky, but possible! Here at Details, we have first handedly witnessed the success of this tradition! There was a lot of pressure, as the parents, grandparents, great grandparents and so on had success! Love, faithfulness and good luck come to the couple who drinks from the cup successfully.

While dancing later in the evening there is a veil dance. The bride takes her veil off and a few people will hold it up for her. If anyone wants to dance with the bride/groom, they must put a dollar into the veil. Their dance will continue until the next person places a dollar in the veil.

German ceremonies last well into the night, which I got to experience firsthand! Traditions will differ by regions, as expected in all countries. But, the newlyweds in Germany are definitely put to the test!

~Danielle

2012-01-31T14:26:00.001-06:00

Getting more Social! http://ping.fm/cCHvY

Our Social Media Blossoms!

2012-01-31T14:22:00.000-06:00

I am thrilled to take on social networking responsibilities for Details. Don't fret! Jami & Nicole will be involved once in a while. They are busy working on so many great paths and new opportunities for Details! I will keep you posted, I promise. I'll even share snap shots here & there :) But please feel comfortable to share, like, and comment on anything as usual. I love to socialize & maybe that's why Jami gave me this opportunity. SO! With that, let's do some sicoal networking together, and not just me to you!

~ Danielle

2012-01-10T09:55:00.001-06:00

Decor help for newlyweds! http://ping.fm/brfRr

Newlywed Decorating Dilemmas

2012-01-05T07:24:00.000-06:00

So, you’ve just been hitched and now you’re stuck with your spouse’s huge collection of sports memorabilia. You secretly wish you could throw it away but know that it holds meaning to your spouse. How should you incorporate it into your new home? Here are some ways you can decorate and blend your styles without anyone getting upset or breaking your budget.

Antlers don't have to say "redneck"

First, it’s helpful to look at your personal inventory, magazines, model homes,and home furniture stores to get an idea of where to begin. Once you find ideas you like, mix and matchwith one another to see what works and what doesn’t. If your tastes differgreatly, you might want to “assign” rooms. Choose an important room to you andgive him full control over a room that is important to him. If you want tocombine your styles in one room, consider making a list of items you love, itemsyou can live with, and items you can’t stand. This will be a clearrepresentation of what items/styles you can and cannot use. You might be surprised to see what items yourspouse chooses in each category.

Look at paint colors together. If you like neutral tones and he likes color,opt for an accent wall with one burst of color and paint the others neutral or,select the lightest tone of his favorite color to paint the entire room. It’sthe best of both worlds, without being overwhelming for you and underwhelmingto him.

Have you had just about enough of his ugly, wood dining table that he loves?Consider refinishing to save money. You can pretty much paint, stain, orreupholster anything, so give it a face lift if purchasing new furniture isn’tpractical right now.

Warning: Do not throw away any of your spouse’s furniture and/or belongingswithout their permission! Pressuring them into it doesn’t count as permissioneither. This can lead to resentment, which should never be the way someonewould want to start their marriage! You would be surprised to learn what pieceshave special meaning and go back into a family’s history.

Choose accessories and textiles that don’t have asuper-feminine feel. Avoid bright pinks and purples in rooms you both spend alot of time in. Gender friendly colors such as greens, yellows, blues, grays,and other neutrals tend to be favored by both genders. However, be carefulchoosing shades and tints of each color; bright versions, such as turquoise orbright yellow, are not favored by all.

Don’t forget, it’s his/her home too, so be fair withdecisions and try to incorporate a little bit of everything. A little elbowgrease and compromise will go a long way! Good luck! J

~ Nicole

(photos on next page)

2011-12-12T11:28:00.001-06:00

Awesome Holiday Shopping Tips! http://ping.fm/vANrs

Your One-Day Holiday Shopping Plan!

2011-12-12T11:13:00.003-06:00

Do you have your Christmas shopping done? If not, don’t sweat it. Procrastinators and over-achievers alike, this article will suit you all! Here is your one-stop shop to getting all of your holiday shopping done in one day. Are you up for the challenge?

8:00am - Start early and eat sensibly! Choose a breakfast that is high in fiber and protein, such as oatmeal made with skim milk and almonds. This will keep you going and not crash like you would by choosing a sugary cereal or donut.

Don’t know what to wear on your day of extreme shopping? Cute-comfort! This is how you should dress that day. If you dress cute and stylish, you will tend to feel more self-confident and actually opt to buy less throughout the day. A professor of marketing research at the Sauder School of Business found that people tend to buy more when they feel insecure.

It has also been found that songs with a fast beat will keep you moving through the stores. Why not download happy, upbeat, holiday music to your playlist and crank up the feel-good tunes all day?

Everyone loves a good sale. So, after you’ve dressed in your adorable outfit, and have finished downloading your playlist, grab a free app for your phone. ScanLife is a barcode scanner you use on your phone to find out which store has the best price. You may also want to check out your favorite retailer’s websites before you leave, to check out any coupons, sales, and announcements.

Another great tip – shop by yourself. When you shop with a pal, you tend to mimic one another through purchases, and this can bring you out of budget . . . fast! If you are afraid you won’t catch all the great deals without having a shopping companion, use the free My Shopping Circle app. This app allows you to share deals with one another at the click of a button.

9:30am – Run by the bank. Leaving your credit cards at home will make you more aware of how much you’re spending. Ask the teller for larger bills like 50s and 100s, as you will be less likely to break them on unnecessary purchases. It has been shown that shopping with cash slashes your total spending by 23%.

Tip: Consider purchasing the less expensive items first. Once you buy something pricey, you loose perspective on what is a good price.

1:00pm – Eat a smart lunch. Choosing a protein-rich salad with chicken will keep you energized. Carbohydrate-laden picks, like pizza and fries, will just make you drowsy!

2:00pm – Need a pick-me-up? At this point, you might be running out of gas, so why not treat yourself to an inexpensive mani or even a free chair massage at Brookstone! Staying in a good mood all day will help you make better buying choices. You will actually take more time to outweigh the pros and cons before shoveling out the cash.

Tip: Skip the long lines. When it’s possible, find a register in a less crowded area of the store, such as the men’s-underwear and home furnishings department. We are all guilty of impulse buys, so waiting in lines less with help prevent those last-minute grabs.

Have a cute salesperson on your hands? This is a cause for budget disaster. Research has shown that we tend to trust salespeople that are physically attractive. So, is it really the sweater you like or the handsome clerk telling you all about it?

6:00pm – Get shopping done at dinner! Meet your friends or spouse at a restaurant that offers gift-card freebies. You can buy your son or friend a $50 gift card and get a $10 credit towards your dinner that evening.

8:00pm – Whew! Back at home. Still have a few people on your list? Search e-tailers like FreeShipping.org, RetailMeNot.com, and CouponCabin.com to find free shipping and other discount available. Other sites such as Piperlime.com, Endless.com, and Zappos.com never charge for shipping.

Now sit back, relax, and worry about wrapping everything tomorrow.

~Nicole

2011-12-06T12:46:00.001-06:00

Meet Danielle! http://ping.fm/QkIY1

Meet Danielle!

2011-12-06T12:23:00.001-06:00

Name: Danielle Handler

Where you're from: Home of the Bluejays, Menasha, Wi

Family Situation: I have an amazing little family. A nephew that I adore. And my boyfriend Adam of 2 1/2years.

Your favorite aspect of event planning: I love the creativity that is unique to each event. To help a client unlock their ideas and then have the ability make them happen.

What do you despise about event planning: The misconceptions people have of hiring an event planner. A few being that they won't benefit from an event planner or it will just add another bill by hiring an event planner. It's unfortunate that these misconceptions prevent people from even researching how we can help.

What your dream event would look like: In 1985 there was an event called Live Aid. It was an international fundraiser, where the most famous musicians were performing on the most important stages around the world. It reached well over 1 billion people in 150 nations. The money raised exceeded expectations. That event made an enormous impact on the world that day, and many days after. I would like to be a part of an event like this. Dream big!

In your opinion, what is the single greatest benefit to hiring Details: Our service! We follow through with what's expected, and we know that bar is high.

What do clients stress about that is unnecessary and why: The event running smooth. Details has perfected the art of creating timelines to make sure it runs smooth and layouts to assure comfort and style. These assure our clients that their event will be amazing.

If you were an animal you would be a: Snow leopard.

You're known for quality/trait: Being a snow bunny. I really enjoy winter activities and snow!

Your nickname is: B

Your favorite hobby or pastime is: Photography. Capturing moments on camera has been very influential in my life. I have family spread around the world, and those captured moments are special to revisit.

If you could travel anywhere it would be: Greek Islands!!

If you could live anywhere it would be: This is a really hard question to answer....Italy

Your favorite television show: Saturday Night Live

Your favorite quote: "Do not go where the path may lead; go instead where there is no path and leave a trail." -Ralph Waldo Emerson

Random bit of irrelevant information: I like challenges and adventure! Snowboarding, exploring, and I completed my first 10 mile Tough Mudder on a mountain, this last July.

2011-11-29T08:43:00.001-06:00

TMI on Facebook - What Should You Share? http://ping.fm/QtAAK

Facebook, Have You Gone too Far?

2011-11-29T07:47:00.001-06:00

Everyone uses it and has even become addicted to it at some point. You can chat, search, like, and message your closest 500+ friends. Yes, I’m talking about Facebook. It is an awesome way to keep in touch with your friends, make announcements, and even promote your business. There is a thin line between fun, quirky posts, and just down right TMI. Announcing your engagement is super exciting and why wouldn’t you want everyone to know? It is what happens after the engagement, that some posts should just be left to yourself. Here is a list of wedding Facebook-ing don’ts:

-Don’t ask your future spouse for their hand in marriage through Facebook!

-Don’t ask your friends to be in the wedding party through Facebook.

-Don’t post photos of bridesmaid dresses/shoes/accessories/etc, unless you really don’t mind to hear honest opinions of people you don’t even know!

-Don’t make a status post directing guests to your wedding registry.

-Don’t post your wedding details for everyone to view through your profile. Not only might you have random people showing up to your wedding but you might hurt some feelings from those that never received a real invitation.

-Don’t use Facebook to invite guests to your wedding.

-Don’t ask for honeymoon tips and ideas before you actually get to discuss options with your fiancé.

-Don’t express negativity about your in-laws or other personal family issues through Facebook.

-Don’t forget to consult in a professional planner for your big day to combat all of the problem situations for you! 

Additional Information -
Flash Mob Proposal

Dangers of Status Change

The Gloss

2011-11-18T16:20:00.001-06:00

Meet Nicole! http://ping.fm/ZtCCM

Meet Nicole!

2011-11-18T12:36:00.001-06:00

Those of you who have already met Nicole know that she is not only a very conscientious Details staff member, but also is a kind and fun person to be around. Somehow, the two of us can usually find the silly side of a difficult situation!

I thought that you might enjoy getting to know a few of the Details staff members a little better, so here we go!

Name
Nicole Immel

Where you're from
Appleton, WI

Family situation
I've been married to my wonderful husband, Danny, for a year and a half and have a 13 week old chocolate lab, Digger. No kiddos yet :)

Your favorite aspect of event planning
My favorite aspect of planning is seeing the finished product and hearing from the bride and groom how amazing their day was. That makes it all worth it!

What you despise about event planning
Intense question! haha. The thing that isn't so pretty about event planning is when suppliers try to take advantage of you and/or your client and when they do not fulfill their promises. We need to be very upfront in some situations which sometimes makes us look like the bad guy, but it's all about the client and making sure they get the best service possible.

What your dream event would be/look like
I, as well as many other brides out there, like sparkle! I also love the warm summer months. My dream event would be in mid June, somewhere near a beach with a gorgeous white tent and a ton of candlelight and sparkle. The weather would be perfect - 75 degrees with NO wind! The tables would have tall, immaculate centerpieces on silver bling candelabras with lush floral - white hydrangeas, peonies, etc. All the tables linens would be swagged (multiple layers - a planners worst nightmare!), silver chiavari chairs with sashes, crystal goblets, and unique, fun dinnerware. The ceiling of the tent would have flowing, draped white fabric and a huge crystal chandelier hanging from the center. All of this, surrounded by my closest family and friends. :) Ahhh, the perfect evening.

In your opinion, what is the single greatest benefit to hiring Details
The best benefit to hiring Details is having a knowledgeable professional there to help you every step of the way. You save so much time, stress, and even money by hiring a professional to handle the planning process. With Details, you know the job will be done right.
What do clients stress about that is unnecessary and why
Clients most often stress about getting things done all at once or wanting to do them too far in advance. We keep you on track the entire time and will let you know if something needs attention.

If you were an animal you would be
I would definitely be a puppy...and this is probably only because I have one right now, but he has it pretty good! He is so loved - he can play all day, has a never ending bag of treats, and people want to see him all the time! He is spoiled rotten!

You're known for
Being OCD with keep things organized and tidy!

Your nickname is
Cole

Your favorite hobby or pastime is
Interior decorating and switching up looks in all of my rooms

If you could travel anywhere, it would be
Anywhere in the Caribbean!

If you could live anywhere, it would be
South/Central U.S. - where the warmer months last longer and winters aren't as cold!

Your favorite television show
Tie between Keeping Up with the Kardashians and Housewives of Beverly Hills/Orange County

Your favorite quote
Everything happens for a reason. This has held true in so many situations in my life..all which have been so obvious after they've happened.

Random bit of irrelevant information
(I love what I do. I love helping people plan the event of their dreams. It's so fulfilling to be acknowledged for the impact you made on someone. I was crazy for not hiring a planner for my own wedding. Looking back, I remember how stressed I was and how many little details I missed because I had too much on my plate. Being able to take that stress away from other clients is priceless.

You're Too Late!

2011-11-08T21:45:00.000-06:00

You surely did not miss this event. Those who attend raved and made requests that it become an annual event with the same theme. We hope the Orphan Animal Rescue and Sanctuary will plan to do just that.

Thank you first of all, to Amy with Ardent Photo for supplying all of these beautiful images.

We also want to thank the very generous suppliers who helped make this such an amazing event.

A few of Zuppa's delicious appetizers are being offered by the Mad Catter in the photo above.

Um, yes, please! The wonderful baked items on the 16' Mad Hatter Sweet Buffet were provided by Hilltop Bakery. The Sweet Buffet display and candies were provided your's truly, Details.

Oh my, the hours we put into making the larger than life props, but we had a ball!

These mushrooms, all 15, are 3'-5' tall and were lit from their tops.

Games for young and old alike. These children enjoyed the I'm Late! Potato Sack Race.

Yes, more fun props! Do you like our Flamingo Croquet mallets?

What's a Tea Pawty without tea (provided by Copper Rock), but this is an Alice in Wonderland themed event so it most certainly has to come from a hookah served by the Caterpillar (not shown).

If you think this looks wild now, you should have seen it after dark! They guys at Lighten Up created these awesome fiberglass mushrooms that glowed and produced fog. They were a huge hit!

Other generous suppliers include:

Sound Decision

HomeRun Pizza

You'll Be Floored

My Phase 2

2011-10-06T12:13:00.001-05:00

Tea Pawty! http://ping.fm/Yug0y

It's a Tea Pawty!

2011-10-06T12:10:00.000-05:00

Bandersnatch Eyes, Ham Sandwiches & Hay, a caterpillar serving tea from a hookah, giant mushrooms, and a 12’ sweets buffet. If you’ve encountered these rarities, you have probably just joined us for the OARS Tea Pawty!

But that’s not all you’ll find at Homestead Meadows on Friday, October 21 from 5:00 -9:00 p.m. at this Alice in Wonderland-themed fundraiser for the Orphan Animal Rescue and Sanctuary.

OARS is a no-kill, volunteer driven 501(c)(3) animal rescue serving the Fox Valley. This organization which provides love and care while finding homes survives wholly on the donations of generous contributors and on your participation at this event.

Tickets are available for the Tea Pawty by visiting the OARS website and clicking on TICKETS. Bring a guest because they’re buy-one-get-one and just $30! Oh heck, bring a crowd and have a ton of fun! Alcohol bracelets are $10.

Here’s what you’ll find when you arrive:

Adoption Zoo

Mad Hatter Sweet Buffet

Silent Auction

Paint the Roses

White Rabbit Photos

Flamingo Croquet

Hay Rides

I’m Late Race

Face Painting

Cookie Decorating

Art Station

Wonderland Characters

Passed Appetizers

Caterpillar’s Hookah

Drinks

Music

A special thank you to our current list of contributors:

Zuppas

Homerun Pizza 920-734-0044

Hilltop Bakery

Sound Decision DJ

Ardent Photography

Lighten Up Special Effects & Event Lighting 920-267-7733

Copper Rock

Cranky Pat’s Pizzeria

Cousins Subs

Donations are still being sought for the items listed below and may be delivered to the Details office (please phone 920-364-0212) or to the OARS Neenah location. Monetary and in-kind contributions will receive a receipt for tax purposes so long as it is accompanied by an estimate of value.

Wine
Beer
Water
Soda

Bagged candies

½”-1” paint brushes in good condition
Disposable plates & Napkins
Printing services

Silent Auction Items
Cash donations (Make checks payable to the Orphan Animal Rescue with Tea Pawty in the memo line)

THERE IS A CRITICAL NEED FOR PAINT of any amount in bright, fun colors such as green, purple, yellow, red, turquoise, etc. Please contact Details, a professional planning company immediately if you can donate any of these.

Follow Details, a professional planning company and OARS on Facebook to track progress and catch glimpses of prop creations!

See you there! The Details staff will be in costume, will you?

~ Jami

2011-10-05T11:55:00.001-05:00

pinterest http://ping.fm/1AT2z

Pinterest!

2011-10-05T11:27:00.000-05:00

from Luxefinds

Ahhhh! I have a new addiction! Have you discovered Pinterest? I am l-o-v-i-n-g it! You're going to love it it too, I'm certain. The website allows you to create multiple digital inspiration boards and label them with various topics and themes. You can "like", comment, and follow (Follow My Wedding Board!) people who have the same interests as you.

I'm just getting started on mine, but be sure to check it out. I'd love to see what inspiration boards you're creating for your event so please let me know that you've started pinning.

Here are just a few of the cool finds I pinned last night:

from Luxefinds

I love cotton candy and I love planning events so this is an awesome way to combine the two. These would make a perfect addition to our signature candy buffets!

from Martha Stewart

Perfect, simple centerpieces for an elegant fall and a sophisticated take on chinese lanterns. Both from Martha Stewart.

Have fun pinning!

~Jami

2011-07-01T08:39:00.001-05:00

Wedding Pyrotechnics http://ping.fm/tJbNS

Ohhh Ahhh Wedding Pyrotechnics

2011-07-01T08:30:00.001-05:00

Who doesn't love a spectacular fireworks display? Romantic and fun this can be a great way to end a beautiful wedding day and may not be as out of reach as you think. Before you get too excited about this special effect option, make sure to educate yourself then follow the steps to see if it is feasible.

Autumn & Drew - Pamela Luedeke Photography

Make sure you have the space to accommodate for setup and safety. You'll need a wide open area with at least 150' in all directions, away from people, occupied buildings, and parking lots.

Consider the cost. The length of time is one measurement of cost while the other factor is quantity of fireworks for the duration. A 30 minute fireworks display with delays between sets is not as exciting as fireworks that are boom, boom, boom . . . pardon the pun :) Although lower budgets can be accommodated, a quality 10 minute presentation will cost about $3000.

Hire a company who knows what they're doing. Fireworks are explosives (duh!) and can be extremely dangerous to handle.

You'll need a permit. This is typically obtained through your local governing body. The production company will be able to navigate you through the permiting process, but the responsibility is yours. Allow a minimum of 30 days for this process, but longer is better.

Although is seems like fireworks are frequently cancelled due to weather, in reality, rain and light snow are fine; high winds or dry conditions are not.

It may be necessary for you to hire security and fire protection services. If this is a condition of your permit, make sure you fully understand the additional costs that will be incurred for these services.

Besides the standard fireworks display, you may also wish to consider gerbs. Shown at left, these are typically used to create dramatic exits for the bride and groom, but are sometimes used in fewer numbers on the dance floor as well.

Sparklers, shown in the top image, are a way to add pyrotechnics without requiring a permit. However, as with each of these options, you need have them approved by your venue.

Have you seen Disney's latest princess movie, Tangled? Remember the glowing lanterns that were released each year into the sky? Well, those are a real product called Sky Lanterns! Made of rice paper and bamboo, they are fully biodegradable and can be seen for miles. They also are relatively inexpensive and come in a variety of colors. They symbolize prayers being raised to heaven . . . what a wonderful way to begin your marriage!

Contact your wedding planner for assistance in coordinating spectacular displays such as those listed.

Happy Fourth of July!

2011-06-23T10:41:00.001-05:00

What your guests are saying http://ping.fm/CxBIh

What Your Guests Are Saying . . .

2011-06-23T09:26:00.002-05:00

Everyone says it’s your day, and that’s correct, to a point. This is the day you are marrying your best friend which indeed makes it a very special event. So why are all these people here? Perhaps you’ve invited them to witness this significant occasion. Perhaps you’ve invited them to celebrate the moment with you. Either way, you’ve invited them, as in, you are the host.

As the host of any party you typically have several goals you are trying to achieve – you want to spend time with your guests, you want to interject a piece of yourself into the elements, and you want to entertain and please your guests.

Ah, so you never really thought about that last one as it pertains to your wedding day? Let’s step back and take a look at what your guests could be saying if the event is approached from the me, me, me vantage point.

• “My invitation was addressed to me ‘and guest’ even though they’ve known my boyfriend for 6 years!”
Make the effort to find out the guest's name and use it on the invitation and place card. It's a thoughtful gesture that will not go unnoticed.

• “Our invitation came with a Macy’s registry card. It seemed like they were outright asking for a gift.”
This is just one great use of a wedding website. Not only does it share directions, timelines, and other key information about your day, but it is also a more discreet way of sharing your bridal registry information.

• “I hate receiving lines. Who wants to wait in a long line to greet the one person you do know and 10 others you don’t?”
Consider the photo above - long lines, uncomfortable shoes, and a hot day - not exactly a combo for happy guests.

• “I don’t get delays between the ceremony and the reception. I’m dressed and I’m here, let’s keep this party movin’!”
This is your day and you want to drag it out and enjoy it as much as possible, however, your guests are busy and many do not enjoy having their whole day tied up to attend a function that in reality offers them only a few hours of entertainment and enjoyment.

• “I’ve been to receptions with a ‘social’ hour, but not cocktails or hors d’oeuvres offered. When you’re waiting and trying to mingle with people you don’t know, having something in your hand is a great way to occupy your hands and may even provide an ice breaker.”
Even if there is only an hour between ceremony and reception, it is much appreciated to be offered nibblers and beverages. It does not have to be fancy or expensive, but it should be present.

• “If I see another 10 minute slideshow of the happy couple at age 3, I’m gonna throw-up.”
There are so many creative options for putting together a more fun video presentation as opposed to the old slideshow. Also, the old KISS acronym (Keep It Short Stupid) is great advice here - 5 minutes or less is sufficient. Make it awesome and brief, leaving your guests wanting more, not yawning!

• “As a single person, I like table assignments. At least it makes me feel like the bride and groom have put some thought into who I might have interests with.”
Most people feel awkward walking into a room and sitting with a stranger as they do not want to impose. While determining seating charts takes time and effort, you can almost hear an audible sigh of relieve when guests realize this stressor has been removed for them.

• “Give me limited options if you want, but offer those drinks free all night. I’m your guest.”
This is a touchy subject since it so significantly impacts the budget. A good compromise is to offer certain drinks complementary so they have the option as to whether they want to purchase something different. It is not your responsibility to finance their drunken stupor!

• “It was a buffet. One buffet. For 250 guests. Can you guess my complaint?”
A real pet peeve of the Details' staff! Your caterer may say that one buffet is sufficient but this is because it is easier on them to setup one buffet. Don't fall for that. No one wants to wait 25, 30, 45 minutes or more to eat or be interspersed with those who are already back up for seconds.

• “Dinner wasn’t served until 8pm!”
People get testy when they're hungry and it definitely puts a damper on the party vibe. If you're going for elegant, spread out the courses, don't delay the whole meal.

• “The dollar dance seemed like a cheap ploy to drain your guests of cash.”
We agree. What part of the dollar dance says "class"?
• “I was embarrassed for the bride. Who wants their maid-of-honor sharing information like that to all of your family and friends!”
Remind your wedding party and parents that this is a memorable event but that not all past memories need to be aired. Fun stories can be shared, but embarrassment should be nixed.

• “I realize that music at a certain volume elicits people to dance, but it was way too loud. I couldn’t even talk to my partner!”
Grandma isn't the only one who is turned off by overly loud music. A professional dj understands the appropriate volume to get guests on the floor and not out the door.

• “Nothing seemed organized. We waited on the wedding party to arrive, we waited to be served our food, we waited on speeches, then waited while they determined who would go first, we waited on the first dance, wait, wait, wait!”
Ah, another pet peeve! Of course, we're planners so we really notice when an event does not flow well. Your event timeline is critical to keeping your guests engaged which in turn creates a positive memory for them rather than chalking it up to another boring event.

• “They ran out of wedding cake. This is a huge hairy deal to me!”
Okay, so this is my personal quote and it really happened. I admit that I'm a sweet-aholic and tolerate the main course only as it gets me closer to the cake. Imagine what my husband had to listen to all night when wedding cake ran out before it got to the last 30-40 guests served. Never run out of wedding cake!

So in planning YOUR day, remember to plan it from the vantage point of YOUR guests!

2011-06-17T10:37:00.001-05:00

http://ping.fm/jok0q Make the right perfume choice for your day!

Scent-sational You!

2011-06-17T10:24:00.001-05:00

Smell as fantastic as you look!

200 guests = 200 hugs!

Of course we all know that there are hundreds of fragrances out there and we’ve all smelled them walking through Macy’s, or maybe like Elf you have mistaken it for tasty fruit spray! Either way, fragrances will smell different on everyone’s skin as the oils and fragrances mix. It’s important to sample beforehand, but limit four or five to a time. Our noses our sensitive!

The fragrance should match the theme of the wedding.

• Classy/traditional: Floral, musk

o No. 5, Chanel
o Cocoa Mademoiselle, Chanel**

o Eternity, Calvin Klein

o Beautiful, Estee Lauder

• Intimate and private: Romantic, light floral
o Rose Essential, Bvlgari**
o Miss Dior Cherie, Christian Dior
o Pretty, Elizabeth Arden*
o Stellanude, Stella McCartney

• Bold, Fabulous, a party: Bold, fruity
o Flight of Fancy, Anna Sui
o Happy, Clinique
o Very Hollywood, Micheal Kors
o Outspoken, Fergie

• Outdoor/natural: Woodsy, fresh, floral
o Daisy, Marc Jacobs
o Miracle Forever, Lancome
o J’adore, Christian Dior**
o Romance, Ralph Lauren*

Some tips: Be attentive to the concentration: apply more concentrated formulas lightly to pulse points, and lighter blends can be applied all over. Perfumes are very concentrated along with Eau de Parfum, which are a bit weaker. Cologne is half as strong as a perfume, and Eau de Toilette is even softer. Splashes and mists are definitely the lightest and can be sprayed all over. It’s a nice touch to spray fragrance into your hair.

• If your flowers are very aromatic, go light on fragrance.

• Scents will be more potent as your body temperature increases.

• Spray on before dressing, keep fragrance away from you dress-- avoid fabric stains!

• Grab a sample capsule at the store for your handbag and reapply throughout the day!

Notes
**Tara's personal favorites
*Jami's personal favorites

~Tara

2011-06-09T11:57:00.001-05:00

Hair accessories! http://ping.fm/Bbujs

Hair Comes the Bride…

2011-06-09T11:52:00.000-05:00

There was a wedding girl, who had a little curl…all over those locks of love! Style your wedding day with not only fantastic hair, but with a hair accessory to compliment your carefully-picked-out dress. Hair accessories come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, and also range from chic to traditional.

Of course floral plays a huge role in the wedding day as flowers are placed on pews, in vases, pinned on jackets, held in hands; so, why not add one or two more to your hair? Flowers in general give such a romantic feel. Add some elegance (and a great scent) to your up-do!

Wedding veils date back to the ancient Romans, and history states they were introduced to conceal the bride from evil spirits. Another belief is that the veil hid the bride’s features from the groom and kept him from leaving the altar in an arranged marriage. Either way, hiding from the groom or not, veils are still very trendy, very beautiful, and transforming for a bride. Princess Dianna’s wedding veil was 25 feet long; however, the birdcage veil is a huge hit these days, especially to flaunt a vintage look.

Also appealing to vintage brides may be feathers, pearls, and lace. Need your “something old”? Look in your grandmother’s closet!

Add some bling with some rhinestone crystals, or a great brooch! This would be a great idea for holiday brides or anyone looking to capture sparkle.

Decorative pins and barrettes, along with headbands, ribbon bands, and tiaras are also some great options. Any other unique ideas out there?

A great headpiece supplier, Margo Rouge is one of our Preferred Partners, giving a 10% discount to our bridal clients!

2011-06-02T16:18:00.001-05:00

Preparing your feet for your big day http://ping.fm/VggPC

Happy Feet

2011-06-02T16:01:00.002-05:00

H~a~p~p~y F~e~e~t

It’s your wedding day! All eyes will be on you! Your dress, hair, jewelry, hands (isn’t that where the ring is?), and, especially if you are wearing open-toe shoes…your feet! Let your wedding glow shine from head to toe! Here are some tips and ideas to prepare for healthy wedding feet and great toes for your honeymoon.

1. Leading up to the wedding day, get a pedicure once a month to keep your feet healthy. If you can’t afford once a month, attempt your own and schedule every other or third month with a pro.

2. After bathing, always push back your cuticles with a towel or Q-tip, but do not cut them yourself. Let the pedicurist do it the right way.

3. Before bed (or maybe while relaxing at night) massage creams on your feet and slip into thick slippers or wool socks. Absorbing the cream will keep them nice and moisturized.

4. File the bottoms of your feet with a pumice stone regularly.

5. Schedule your bridal pedicure the day before your wedding. Avoid the day-of chaos, and the finish will be dry and shiny.

Some brides like to keep a nude or subtle look, maybe a light pink, to match their wedding dress. A French pedicure, a highly acclaimed style, appears very clean and “polished.”
In today’s creative world, there are many expressive ideas out there using color, design, and 3D effects. Why not add some unique flair?

3D Nail-art: Incorporate some sparkle with some rhinestones and glitter.

Gel Nails: Super sparkly, quick, and many colors available. This polish lasts a very long time, definitely lasting through beach walks and hundreds of swims!

Getting a pedicure is a great event for the whole bridal party. It would be a fun option for a bachelorette party, or maybe just for an hour of relaxation and pampering before the rehearsal. Should all bridesmaids have matching toes, thoughts?

~Tara

2011-05-26T08:22:00.001-05:00

Unusual bridal bouquets http://ping.fm/aHVXa

Unusual Wedding Bouquets

2011-05-26T08:02:00.001-05:00

You plan your entire wedding around your own personality and style; where you will walk down the aisle, what music you select, the ambiance you create and so much more. However, you still see brides opting to do what is most popular, or base their decisions on what they’ve already seen. Why not step out of the box, and showcase something unique? Surprise your guests with thoughtful details and beautiful décor.

Photo One

Perhaps some of the most beautiful details to your wedding day are your flowers. Not only are there endless possibilities with shapes, colors, and textures, but why not follow-through with the theme of your day or spruce them up with embellishments? Bouquets are the easiest way to incorporate some unique detailing.

There are a few options we’ve pulled that you don’t see every day, but keep it interesting for your guests. Why not create the “ooo”, “aahh” reaction and come out with a bouquet bedazzled with rhinestones and pearls? Notice how beautiful this can be in photo one above!

Photo Two

Photo Three

Cascading options are also great, and bring in a new shape. You can choose any length and size you desire. Most often you will see cascading bouquets paired with very formal weddings, but as you see here, it was for this casual day.

You can get pretty creative with options, as seen here in these sea shell bouquets. These would be a perfect match for a beach-side or destination wedding. However, you’ll need to be careful. Shells can be sharp and you end up doing quite a bit of hugging on your wedding day! Be sure that your bouquet isn’t poking anyone!

Photo Four

Photo Five

Photo Seven

Another creative option is to use broaches and any other small accessory that creates sparkle, color, and texture. It’s very unique and would work great for a more casual wedding with perhaps a garden/outdoor wedding theme. You could use broaches from grandmothers and other relatives – incorporating your “something old” and “something borrowed” pretty easily!

Bouquets are a great accessory to your wedding day. Make it unique to you and add a touch of flair that will set you apart from the rest!

~Nicole

2011-05-17T17:21:00.001-05:00

Wedding Favor Ideas! http://ping.fm/qEeuF

Wedding Favors - Useful or Edible!

2011-05-17T17:06:00.001-05:00

Having trouble thinking of guest favors? Here are some great ideas:

To serve a warm gratitude, send your guest home with some coffee! Personalize the packets with your own design and style. I bet they will love the idea of coffee the morning after the party! Along with this idea, you could include hot cocoa packets for the children attending the reception.

Is your event at a country club? Sending your guests home with personalized tee’s or a sleeve of golf balls would be adorable. The guests could use them the next day if they are from out of town!

Everyone can use another salt shaker, especially these cute kissing fish. These would be fun to use at a barbeque, weekend camping trip, or a summer holiday at the lake! Of course there are many other options for designing and personalizing.

Just a spoon full of sugar for your guests!
What sweet way to say thank you!
Is there a great candy store in your town? Send your guests home with some samples! Maybe order some personalized ribbon to add to an adorable box.

For destination weddings, luggage tags would be a great gift idea. Next time the guest travels, they will remember the special trip they took for your wedding.

If your wedding is on the beach, guests might be very thankful for this! Personalize your own chapstick, maybe include some sun screen to go with it.

Wine glasses would be a great idea for multiple uses throughout the reception. Insert tea lights and use on tables to aid as a centerpiece, or place candy inside the glasses for a quick snack! Personalize the glass and send with the guests. The stemless look adds elegance.

If you’re a wine lover, wine bottle openers are also a great idea. Personalize a cork or bottle stopper! If you have a large budget, a label could be personally designed for your favorite bottle of wine or champagne! The guests could use any of these items in celebration.

Browse the web for endless options, have fun looking!

~ Tara

2011-05-11T07:20:00.001-05:00

Read me before you visit your florist! http://ping.fm/VDe2T

2011-05-08T18:24:00.000-05:00

Stock

Summer brides have a garden full of options for their personal and centerpiece flowers. Variety of type and color is at its peak for the year. Use the list below as a springboard for ideas before visiting your florist. This way, you’ll have a better grasp of what you’re most interested in, what’s available, and the price range of particular flowers.

Calla Lilly

Stock - Works well for garden weddings or weddings with a traditional feel. Great for volume. $$

Cala Lily – A popular wedding flower for its elegance, but also one of the most expensive. $$$

Lily – Due to its size, a great option as a show stopper while keeping the budget down. $$

Rose – Traditional flower that exudes elegance, love, and romance. Reasonable pricing adds to its popularity. $$

Roses

Carnation – Before shunning this common and inexpensive flower, talk to your florist about creative and modern uses. $

Chrysanthemum – Great for color and price. $

Dahlia – A full flower with lots of looks – from spikey petals, to round and romantic. $$

Gerbera Daisy – Popular for weddings incorporating bright colors and small budgets. $

Dahlia

Daisy – From spider daisies to pom daisies, the look is fun and casual. $
Freesia – A great alternative to orchids, but a bit more traditional and romantic in their look. $

Delphinium – Casual and leggy for an outdoor, casual feel. $

Hydranges

Hydrangea – A large flower with a soft, romantic, and traditional feel. $$$

Orchid – Beautiful, small, and pricey. Only for the largest of wedding budgets. $$$$

Peony – Although pricier, this is a large bloom that makes a very romantic statement. $$$

Peonies

Stephanotis – A great substitute for pricier orchids. $$

Hypericum Berries – A nice add-in for bouquets, boutonnières, and centerpieces. $

2011-04-25T09:07:00.001-05:00

DIY place card holders http://ping.fm/Ll8jB

Unique DIY Place Card Holders

2011-04-24T20:21:00.000-05:00

Delicious candies, toothpicks, and stickers - easy as 1, 2, 3

Need place card holders? Looking for an embellishment for your dining tables? Want to personalize the wedding favor?

Some brides have the creativity and desire to provide a personal, handmade item for their guests. This is a great place to use that talent since these can be made well in advance of the event. Your local craft or hardware store (or event grocery!) can provide inspiration and product.

Remember the following as helpful tips:

Simple is often best
Start well in advance in case you need to go to Plan B
Do not use chocolate if you'll be outdoors
Holders utilizing fruit should be very simple and easy enough to assemble the day of the event for freshness
Make sure they will stand or lay exactly as you want them
Enlist the help of other creative friends and family to make it go faster and make it more fun!
Have all supplies ready when you begin

Customize the votive holder for a multi-tasking decoration - place card, romantic candlelight, and guest favor

Have a special theme? Get creative like this bride did by handpainting wooden knobs to look like baseballs

Who could resist these? Slip the place card into the ring

Remember, these are last minute items

It doesn't get any simpler than this

Perfect for a fall reception

This is Sculpey Clay, painted, and with rings
added to hold the cards. Sculpt the clay into shape you like

Adorable little rounds of wood -
perfect for that outdoor, woodsey wedding

How fun! And a beautiful addition to the
place card table and dining table

Be sure to wear safety goggles while drilling the holes.
Attach the wire with Super Glue.

It's hard to beat a cookie! Attach it to the place card or
pipe the name and table number right on the cookie

Of course, if you don't have the time or creativity, Details is happy to create these personalized items for you. Just ask!

~Jami

2011-04-13T14:27:00.001-05:00

A Wedding Guest's Etiquette Guide http://ping.fm/Apz5s

Wedding Etiquette for the Wedding Guest

2011-04-13T08:39:00.000-05:00

As event planners, we're often coaching our clients in proper etiquette from the host's role, but boy do we frequently wish we could also enlighten the guests! So, here we go, right in our blog, with the basics of wedding guest courtesy. Please help us spread the wisdom by posting this link to your Facebook or ReTweeting!

You can't wear black. False. Black no longer represents mourning and instead has moved to the pinnacle of elegance and chic. Pair it with lovely pearls or a colorful scarf or sweater, if you'd like.

The bride is not the point person. True. Chatting with the bride during the planning process shows that you're excited for her, but as the day draws near do not contact her with your questions! The same is true for the wedding day. The bride should be able to relax and enjoy her day.

Shopping from the registry is impersonal. False. These are items the couple really needs or wants and they will be truly appreciative if you choose to gift these items.

Submit your RSVP quickly. True. The bride has to made commitments in regard to food and beverage totals, centerpieces, linens, placecards, and more based on how many and who is attending. Leaving your reply to the last minute causes undo stress. Responding after the deadline is down right rude as it cause the bride or her family to contact you to confirm your decision.

If there's no “Guest”, there's no guest. True. Each person who attends the wedding reception costs the couple a significant amount of money. While they may understand your desire to bring a date, it is simply not in the budget to include every single person's guest. This is true for children as well.

Don't make special dietary requests. True. While couples understand there are allergies and medical concerns, it becomes quite an ordeal for them to meet the dietary needs of every guests. It's one meal – prepare in advance for the fact you may not be able to enjoy the food that is graciously offered by your host.

Ditch the ceremony. False. The couple has determined that you are special enough to be a witness of a very special moment in their lives. Don't be rude and just come for the food and dancing.

If you arrive late, sit at the back of the church. False. Don't be late! Arrive at least 20 minutes prior to the ceremony. The ceremony is, well, ceremonial and late comers distract from the sanctity of the event.

Turn off your cell phone during the ceremony. True. Better yet, leave it in the car. Seriously, why on earth do you need to bring a cell phone (iPod, Gameboy, etc.) into a wedding ceremony? You are a very special person, but others can go on without you for 30-60 minutes.

Avoid taking photos during the ceremony. True. This could hamper the photographer or videographer's ability to capture those key images for which the client is paying big bucks. And, again, it is a distraction to the ceremony itself.

Buffets are made for pigging-out. False. This isn't the Golden Trough. While there should be extra food on a buffet to ensure that everyone has opportunity to enjoy the foods they choose, it is not meant to be an all-night feast. Ditto for the bar, buffet, and candy buffet.

Engage with others at your table, not just your date. True. This is a celebratory social event, enjoy! Who knows, you might just meet your new best friend – or your next girlfriend!

Leave without saying goodbye. False. The couple will want to thank you for your presence and we're hoping that you want to wish them well. Just don't monopolize their time. Keep it brief so other guests can engage them as well.

Pout if you do not receive a thank you note the following week. False. Wait two months, then it is fair to contact the bride and groom to ensure they received your gift. Please be tactful. Though the bride and groom should send thank you notes within two months, you don't want to make them feel horrible because they haven't tackled this task. (I bet you motivate them!)

Quiz – The Ultimate Wedding Question:
Would you wear white or ivory as a wedding guest?

2011-03-14T07:14:00.001-05:00

Out of Town Guest Gifts - Get creative! http://ping.fm/ROZy2

Out-of-Town Gift Baskets

2011-03-13T20:47:00.000-05:00

It is important to show thanks to all of your wedding guests, however, out-of-town guests have made particular effort to share in your day as well incurred additional expense so be sure to go one step further in thanking them.

The first thing to consider is whether most of your out-of-town guests are traveling by car or by airplane. This will help you determine what products and packaging you wish to use. If most of your guests are flying, you may wish to thank them with products that will be consumed prior to their return flight and/or place them in either a disposable bag or something that collapses for insertion in their luggage.

Next, consider the location of your wedding. Are you on the beach? In wine country? In your home town? It is common – and fun for your guests – to incorporate items that speak to your destination.

Finally, make sure the packaging ties in with your wedding theme and colors. While the other aspects consider your guests’ needs and desires, this aspect allows your personality to shine through so get creative!

So what could be included in the gift package?
A personal welcome/thank you note

Details can customize these to match your other wedding stationary

A list of other guests they may know who are staying at the same hotel
A map to the church and reception sites
A local map
A list of sites to see

For the three items above, have fun with it and have a custom map created. Highlight favorite spots for you and the groom

An event itinerary
Sunscreen if you are on the beach
Flipflops if you are on the beach
Water bottles or special local beverage

Again, Details can create labels which match your wedding stationary or incorporate your custom monogram

Candies that are unique to the area

Other snack items that are an area specialty or favorites of the bride and groom

For instance, what might an Appleton, Wisconsin out-of-town gift package look like? If the hotel rooms have access to a kitchenette, why not include a Jack’s Pizza? To complete the late night snack attack include bottles of Sprecher’s Root Beer and candy from Vande Walles. Tie the candy to the root beer with a pretty ribbon and a note attached that welcomes them and lets them know the pizza is in the fridge.

What about Columbus, Ohio? Graeter’s Ice Cream is a hometown favorite so why not include a gift certificate and a map to the nearest location inside your welcome card? Of course, there’s a host of fun things to do in Columbus so be sure to include a list – or a custom map! – of activities such as COSI, Easton Town Center, Franklin Park Conservatory, German Village (be sure to direct them to the original Max & Erma’s!), Short North Arts District, Columbus Museum of Art, and in the outlying areas, Columbus Zoo and Zoombezi Bay. Why not create a trivia card and test their knowledge of local facts?

Are those ideas out of your budget? Not to worry. Thanking someone doesn’t have to carry a hefty price tag. Consider your gifts . . . have a garden full of beautiful flowers? Brighten their room with a small bouquet! Awesome at baking cookies or making caramel corn? Ba da bing, there’s your gift!

Now back to that packaging. Brown craft bags are the least expensive, but please tack a bit of time to dress them up (or let Details do it for you!). Consider other options as well such as Chinese takeout boxes, shipping boxes, or reusable bags (Please, don’t put your face or wedding details on the reusable bag!). Details created birthday gift bags once which included a black and white image of the party girl wrapping two sides of the bag with a boa attached to the top of the bag – talk about personalization! Let the images shown inspire you and if you’d like a little help finding the right gift for your price range, hitting the right creative note, or even getting them assembled and dispersed, call us. We’re happy to help!

~Jami

2011-03-02T07:43:00.001-06:00

What do your wedding colors say about you? http://ping.fm/rty1C

Color Your World

2011-03-02T07:35:00.001-06:00

What does your favorite color say about you? How does it make you feel?

Do you want to create a cozy, warm environment or convey a wild, fun, entertaining feel for your event? No matter what color you decide, what does your favorite color say about you? How does it makes you feel?

Your wedding colors will greatly impact the style and ambiance of your special day. Some colors create a fun, vibrant environment while others create more romantic feel. Choosing a color palette that reflects your personality will help create the style you want at your wedding.

Here are some basic color guidelines you can use for planning your event that we compiled through studies and research.

Red - The color of the heart. Typically, red is a romantic choice when creating a wedding. This color will add a dramatic feel when being used in a wedding.

Yellow- shows heat or energy. Yellow is mostly used as an attention getter. It sparks curiosity, gives people warmth.. It is the color of hope and optimism such as spring after a long winter; it brings new life.

Brown- The brown colors show honesty and comfort. It’s used a lot as earth tones. It may remind us of being outdoors.

Pinks- Using pinks will create affectionate and romantic feel. A romantic feel can be achieved using reds & pinks together. If you blend in deeper reds it creates upscale or an elegant party.

Orange- A color that represents fall or mid summer. Brides choosing orange may enjoy excitement in their life. If you’re a spontaneous person you might choose this color.

Blue- Peaceful, pure and clean are a few words to describe this color. It is very pleasing to the eye. Using a midnight blue will create a sense of sophistication. Are you a compassionate person? Blue might be a good color choice for your wedding.

White- This color is commonly used in weddings or galas. It offers a nice base to balance other colors. White can stand for clarity, purity, and simplicity.
Black- Bold and elegant are two words to describe this color. It is an extremely powerful color. As with white, black is also a nice base to balance other colors. It’s never a trendy color. It will create ambiance by adding depth to your scheme.

Purple- A bride who chooses purple might be charming and witty. Purple often adds a sense of luxury to any color palette and can add drama if used in deeper tones. This color was the hottest color in 2010.
For more information on 2011 wedding color trends, visit Wedding Colors.

What colors are you planning to use? Test them out at The Dessy Group - be sure to share them with us! We'd love hear about your creative vision!

Thank you to Details' Guest Blogger Greg at Dream Lighting Company for writing this post! Visit his website for ideas on how to incorporate your wedding colors into a custom lighting package. Dream Lighting Company is a Details Preferred Partner and as such, offers special discounts to our clients.

2011-02-24T10:47:00.001-06:00

The Bridal Party experience http://ping.fm/K846s

The Bridal Party Experience

2011-02-24T10:44:00.000-06:00

So you've gotten engaged and are now in the process of planning your special day. Yes it can be a bit complex and you've probably heard all kinds of wedding woes. Well if you are the type of gal who dreams of having the perfect wedding, then I would suggest attending a bridal show to gain some inspiration. These can be overwhelming due to their size, but a few offer a more intimate, relaxed experience.

Details proudly participated in just this type of intimate experience last Sunday at the Bridal Party, held at the Capital Club in Columbus Ohio. It was an amazing event that brought top-quality vendors together and offered future brides a sense of comfort and relief. One bride in particular expressed that this “was the best bridal show I've ever attended”, and she'd been to a few.

Designed with a touch of romance, elegance and with a full range of information for your wedding, brides were welcomed upon their entrance by the soft strums of harpist Trista Hill and delicious martinis provided by the Capital Club. The ambiance created by the music, vendors and décor was simply perfect!

A sampling of beautiful and very tasty mini cupcakes where offered by Hilliard Cake Creations while MJ's Candy Bar provided a sampling of smaller sweet treats. These sweets along with the array of signature martinis and hors d'oeuvres were able to be enjoyed while seated at rounds of four decorated with linens provided by Connie Duglin. The tables were perfectly situated to enjoy the stunning gowns provided by Big Rock Little Rooster, being rotated by their lovely models. All women in attendance wished for a moment in their shoes under the magical hands of the staff of Nicole Revish Salon, who provided hair and makeup. Encore Entertainment's relaxing background music and the centerpieces provided by Blooms Direct rounded out the details for an elegant experience.

An element of fun was added by Caricature Art & More by Steve Campbell as he offered couples a free caricature portrait. I wish we had taken time for him to create one of our staff together!

Comfort Photography had a booth but also roamed to capture awesome photos from the day, as shown here. Check out other photos from the Bridal Party on her Facebook page.

Rounding out the suppliers was Romanoff's Classic Tuxedos, the Doubletree Hotel, Shutterbooth, Bliss Honeymoons, and health and fitness experts The Rite Bite. A big thank you also goes out to True Video who gave each vendor the opportunity to record a one minute video of their services, then compiled it onto one Bridal Party DVD for brides to take home and view.

Details offered complimentary consultations and explained the benefits of hiring a wedding planner as well as showcased a sampling of our custom save-the-date, invitation, and thank you card designs.

Follow our blog and Facebook to learn when the next Bridal Party will be!

~ Ivonne Cruz

2011-02-14T15:35:00.001-06:00

Details interviewed on Fox 11 Living with Amy

Planning a wedding: fox11online.com

Details on Living with Amy Fox 11

2011-02-14T15:33:00.002-06:00

Planning a wedding: fox11online.com

2011-02-14T10:43:00.001-06:00

http://ping.fm/IoHMG Valentine Gift Ideas

Creative Valentine Gifts

2011-02-14T10:36:00.000-06:00

I have to admit – I’m not really a fan of traditional anything. Tradition, to me, screams, “Boring!” or “By the book,” which both translate into, “not special,” at least in my mind. I don’t like guys who use the same old lines, movies that follow the same lame boy-meets-girl plot, or even plain vanilla or chocolate ice cream.

Now, I know that there are plenty of girls out there who melt when their boyfriends bring them a dozen red roses and who would love nothing more than an expensive box of Godiva chocolates from their men. One of my roommates is precisely that way and there is nothing wrong with that. I’m only suggesting that it might take a little more to woo some girls. To be blunt, because I know as well as any other female that the majority of males have not mastered the art of the subtle hint, this means more work for dudes. But isn’t your lady worth an extra hour or two of special consideration? To help you out, and get your creative juices flowing, the ladies at Details (okay, me) have done a little research and come up with some sweet ideas that you might want to mull over.

1. Hand-made cards. Never underestimate how much it means to a female when you go out of your way to make her something. Your creation doesn’t have to be breath-taking to look at – it could even be chicken scratch on a folded up piece of white printer paper (try to put a little more effort into it than that) however, it will mean so much more to her if you write out your own feelings rather than picking up something a complete stranger wrote for Hallmark.

2. Scrapbook photo album. Did I hear a collective groan from men around the world? Relax. I’m not suggesting some absurd 40 page album (although I’m sure if you went to such great lengths, it would be very much appreciated!) I’m talking about something smaller. Maybe a 5”x7” notebook or photo album that you fill with pictures of the two of you together, song lyrics or quotes, and a couple of short love notes written by you. Girls love that kind of thing!

3. Cook up your specialty. Or her favorite dish. It doesn’t have to be gourmet or even romantic food. Maybe the two of you really enjoy breakfast foods so you whip up a batch of pancakes (extra points if you shape them into hearts) and an omelet to share. If your female friend is one who complains that you don’t get to spend much “quality time” together, invite her into the kitchen to help. You’ll get that special time plus a delicious meal to enjoy with each other.

Guys, the moral of the blog is this – girls like it when they can tell you’ve been thoughtful on their behalf. Just remember that a little extra effort goes a long way.

~ Meg

2011-02-13T16:15:00.001-06:00

Marry Me! Creative Proposals http://ping.fm/reyfi

Marry Me!

2011-02-13T16:04:00.000-06:00

Be My Valentine!

Valentines Day is here. There is so much to say.

For some it's the Day to say “I Love You” for the first time.

For others it's the day to celebrate an anniversary.

But for some it's the beginning of a new journey.

It's the occasion to let her know how much you care for her.

A special morning, afternoon or evening to say “Marry Me”!

So here are some ideas for you lucky men who have found the One.

Why not get creative and invite your girlfriend on a treasure hunt?
Start with a clue at home, then send her on a tour of your favorite spots all over town.
When she gets to the last hint, the prize should be you on one knee.

However, if your gal frequently loves the tune of a good song and carries her gadget with her at all times. Then I would suggest you create your own podcast proposal and sneak it onto her iPod.

Now if you want to propose to your loved one in a more traditional way,
then I would advise to find a colorful or chocolate box with her ring in it and ask
the the pastry chef to make it part of the selection on the dessert tray at her favorite restaurant.

If you want to be playful then play Hangman and have the phrase be "Marry Me."

And finally if you want be thoughtful, then you can tie a red velvet ribbon from one spot in your home to another. Attach little notes recalling perfect moments in your relationship along the way. You wait at the last stop, ring in hand and ask her to marry you!

Remember that a proposal is a very special occasion that she will tell friends and strangers for the rest of her life. Make it memorable.

~Ivonne Cruz

2011-02-07T11:28:00.001-06:00

http://ping.fm/8MugH Is wedding insurance necessary?

What If?

2011-02-07T11:05:00.000-06:00

What if the groom comes down with a bug…?

Or the officiant fails to appear…?

What if the wedding gifts are damaged or stolen…?

Or the photographer’s equipment malfunctions…?

“What-if” scenarios like these are enough to keep any bride awake at night!

You’ve worked with a great planner, and are using the best vendors in town; how else can you protect the emotional and financial investments you’ve made?

In addition to sound planning and contracting with professional, reputable vendors, wedding insurance may provide a little peace of mind for nervous bride- and grooms-to-be.

Wedding insurance is intended to protect against financial loss in case your wedding has to be canceled or postponed due to circumstances outside your control OR if an element of your big day is absent, lost, or damaged.

For example if a key person in the wedding, such as the bride, the groom, the parents of the bride, or the parents of the groom, becomes ill and cannot attend the ceremony, wedding insurance could be used to cover the cost of postponing the wedding until everyone is back on their feet. If your photos are damaged, wedding insurance can cover the cost of reuniting the wedding party to take photos at a later date.

Wedding insurance can also cover in cases of extreme weather, no-show vendors, unplanned unemployment, military deployment, acts of terrorism, loss of wedding videos, stolen wedding gifts, or damaged wedding attire.

The premium cost of wedding insurance depends on your total budget, certain other investments such as your dress, your photographer, and your total vendor deposits, and the coverage level you choose. Some wedding insurance policies will include a deductible, while others do not. Through Traveler’s Insurance, for example, wedding insurance premiums range from $160 to $1,025 depending on the cost to postpone or cancel the wedding.

Who should purchase wedding insurance? Wedding insurance makes the most sense for couples whose wedding day incorporates risk above their personal comfort level. The wedding insurance webpage presented by Traveler’s Insurance at www.protectmywedding.com lists the following as aspects or factors to that might increase risk:

-A total budget greater than $7,500

-More than $5,000 in deposits

-Out of town bride, groom, parents of the bride, or parents of the groom

-Destination wedding (all guests require travel, especially international)

-Disaster prone location (hurricane zone, tornado alley, etc)

-Guests will be bringing gifts

-Member of the bridal party military, police, or firefighter

In addition, your ceremony or reception venue could require the bride and groom to carry insurance to protect their property in case of damage or additional liquor liability coverage.

Remember, wedding insurance does not prevent something from happening to your wedding (or your dress, gifts, or photos); it only financially protects you from the cost of replacement or postponement. The decision of whether or not to purchase wedding insurance is based on personal risk tolerance, and is unique to every couple. Don’t hesitate to contact Details if you have more questions about wedding insurance, or if you need help planning for the what-ifs of your big day!

2011-02-03T12:06:00.001-06:00

Charitable wedding favors http://ping.fm/ZUrRt

Charitable Wedding Favors

2011-02-03T12:05:00.000-06:00

For brides and grooms looking to offer their guests something meaningful and memorable, a charitable donation is a unique alternative to traditional favors.

To find an appropriate charitable donation, couples should discuss causes (such as the environment or cancer research) that are close to their hearts and/or interests. Maybe the bride has a close friend who is a breast cancer survivor, or the groom is passionate about music education. A couple might select a national (or even global organization), such as the American Red Cross or something local such as a nearby animal shelter or children’s hospital. The possibilities are endless!

The budget for a charitable donation should be determined in respect to the overall wedding budget and potentially as compared to original estimates for traditional favors. Keep in mind that most donations are tax-deductible (and good for your karma)!

Presenting a charitable favor can be done in a variety of ways, including place cards at each setting or larger cards at each table that describe the decision to donate in lieu of traditional favors, the organization’s mission and function, and optionally the bride and groom's personal ties to the organization.

To ensure their charitable favors do the most good, couples should research each potential organization’s legitimacy, history, financial health and how much of each donation goes directly to their programs and services. Some charities and organizations will list this directly on their official website, and a quick internet search will return several charity evaluation websites. It’s a great idea to contact an organization directly to ask about an established wedding favor policy or other questions about their work.

Details can help couples budget and plan for a charitable favor, or help with any other wedding aspect. Feel free to contact our offices to discuss your big day!

Check out these donation websites:

Greater Good

Truffles for a Cause

Just Give

Outreach International

~Morgan

2011-01-31T11:51:00.001-06:00

Details wins Brides' Choice Award! http://ping.fm/3W1jm

Top Wedding Supplier Award!

2011-01-31T10:34:00.000-06:00

Thank you to our clients who appreciated our services enough to place us in the top 5% of wedding suppliers!

2011-01-21T08:39:00.001-06:00

Free V-Day photography! http://ping.fm/7huRR

2011-01-21T08:38:00.001-06:00

http://ping.fm/Lq0JR Avoid being sick for wedding day

Healthy for Your Wedding Day

2011-01-21T02:50:00.000-06:00

Last week was miserable. I got stranded in two airports trying to fly to our Columbus office only to arrive at 2:00 a.m. Sick. I spent the next two solid days in bed and the next ten on medication to get well. It hit me hard and fast.

So that made we wonder, “What if the same thing were to happen to a bride or groom just prior to their wedding day?” The last thing anyone wants is to be sick for their wedding!

First, how to stay well -

Eat plenty of fruits and veggies, get your dairy, and some of that protein stuff, too
Avoid sugar
Consider becoming obsessive about washing your hands
Take a multi-vitamin
Consider getting a flu shot or flu mist
Exercise moderately
Get plenty of rest
Get plenty of rest
Get plenty of rest
And . . . don't stress :)

What to do if you DO get sick -

Drink lots of fluids
Get plenty of rest
Get plenty of rest
Get plenty of rest
And . . . don't stress

It sounds pretty simple - both the staying healthy and the getting healthy - but as simple as each of those things are, how many of you are over taxing your body by working out too hard, not getting 8 hours of sleep, and either over-indulging in food due to stress or starving yourselves to make sure you fit in the dress? Scale back and make taking care of yourself your number one priority.

A healthy bride glows from within!

2011-01-17T18:02:00.001-06:00

Wedding Planner Myths http://ping.fm/ALH3h

2011-01-17T17:54:00.001-06:00

Daytime Columbus and Details, a professional planning company http://ping.fm/uqB2H

Details interview on WCMH Columbus with Gail Hogan

2011-01-14T16:47:00.001-06:00

Meg did a great job on WCMH this morning with Gail Hogan!

A little pre-interview camera op.

2011-01-06T07:27:00.001-06:00

Man Caves - Latest Wedding Trend! http://ping.fm/LGMug

The Man Cave, Now That's What We're Talkin' 'Bout!

2011-01-05T08:03:00.001-06:00

You heard about it first from The Knot on their list of Top 11 Wedding Trends of 2011 but let us be the first to tell you all about the concept of the Man Cave (or Corner, as some may call it). Better yet, bring your groom and come see a real Man Cave for yourself at the 2011 Bridal Party event! On Sunday, February 20, 2011, the Capital Club, Comfort Photography, and Details, a professional planning company, are sponsoring a bridal event like no other. One of the many major differences that sets this experience apart from most other bridal shows is our introduction of the Man Cave. The Man Cave is a special section of the show set aside for, as you probably could have guessed, men. It includes vendors from the elements of the wedding that are usually coordinated by the groom, such as transportation (limos, party buses, etc), travel agents for the honeymoon, and menswear (for the groom, groomsmen and ring bearer). The Bridal Party Man Cave is going to include a few extra goodies – such as a representative from the cigar shop, The Tinderbox, as well as a personal trainer from the gym, The Rite Bite.

Of course, when The Knot wrote about the Man Cave experience, they were referring to having a Man Cave at your wedding reception. What a great way to dedicate a portion of the party to the men in your lives! If you’re thinking about creating a special section for males, you may want to include cigars (as we are for the Bridal Party), brandy or some other “manly” alcoholic drink, a video game system, or blackjack or poker tables. Don’t limit yourself to just those things – get creative, think about what the men you know would enjoy and determine how to incorporate those activities.

If this sounds like something you’d like to have at your wedding reception, ask your man what he would like to see for the Man Cave. This is a great way to get the groom more involved in the wedding planning process without overwhelming him. Allowing your man his own “domain” in the planning makes him feel as though he’s contributing, too, but in a way that is most interesting to him. That’s not to say that he shouldn’t be involved in other aspects of the process as well but this way, he’ll have the opportunity to voice his opinions in the areas about which he cares most.

For more information about The Bridal Party (and Man Cave!) visit http://www.thebridalpartycolumbus.com/.

The Bridal Party Participating Suppliers – Check back as we confirm others!

The Capital Club

Comfort Photography

Details, a professional planning company

Bella Luna Cakes and Confections

Big Rock Little Rooster

Nicole Revish Salon

Connie Duglin Linens

Doubletree Hotel

Encore Entertainment

Shutterbooth

The Rite Bite

The Importance of the Invitation

2010-12-20T11:29:00.001-06:00

On this blog, we've talked about the value of hiring a planner, the importance of the venue, the tasty options for cakes, stylish dress options, and getting fit to name just a very few blog topics, but we have not discussed the importance of your invitation!

Not only is your invitation the first declaration of your wedding that many of your guests will see, it also sets the theme, colors, and expected formality or fun factor for the event. But, before we get ahead of ourselves, let's cover the basic functions of the wedding invitation ~

- The Who: No, not the band from decades back, you!

- The What: The ceremony and/or the reception

- The When: Day, Date, and Time

- The Where: Venue(s), City, State

- The Why: Well, we're assuming because you love each other!

Wedding invitation packets have expanded to include a menagerie of addition information - maps, general event timelines, lodging info, places to see and things to do, and, in some cases, registry information. Most guests these days are connected to the Internet so we encourage our clients to stick with the formal invitation, the reply card and envelope, and an information card. The information card directs guests to the custom website for the bride and groom. The custom website offers so many options, that we'll leave that for another post.

Any generic wedding invitation can supply you with the basic information above, but you need for your invitation to imply a bit more about your event. Your wedding should be as unique as you are and the invitation design should be reflective. An elegant country club wedding should signal the more formal event while the woodland/beach/disco/etc wedding should reflect their own uniqueness. This is accomplished easily enough, but not through off-the-shelf invitations. For many of these companies, "custom" means adding your names to one of their 100 design options - Did you know that there are over 2 BILLION weddings a year in the US alone? Even if there were 5,000 off-the-shelf invitations options, that means there are lots and lots of brides using your same design :(

Details creates one-of-a-kind invitations designed specifically for your personality, event style, theme, colors, and budget and then never resales that design - WOW! I've shared a few of our designs below, some of which are still in the "comp" stage (think sketches), and have tried to give a brief synopsis of the unique event.

The groom is a corporate pilot. These are two of several options presented for the invitation.

Presented as an option for a formal pink and black wedding. However, the designs are being revisited to incorporate the groom's love of hunting. Still staying with pink and black though!

The designs above are available for purchase.

We get lots of requests for pink and black :)

Peonies are a key component for the wedding. This design is still available for purchase since the client chose another design.

Blue and roses were two elements that were tricky to incorporate, but I believe our design blends them well. The client is pleased and has purchased the invitation, information card above, response card, matching thank you cards, and place cards.

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This outdoorsy couple loves to fish together so we designed this piece to match their passion, their colors, and their budget. Invitations, respond postcards, and thank you cards were purchased.

The save the date above and invitation below were submitted as a possibility for this elegant black and tan country club reception. This design is available because the client has chosen the floral design below.

Although still in the planning stages, this invitation is expected to have their names stamped in gold foil and the floral design custom embossed on the invitation folder.

These are just two elements to a very popular invitation! The multi-layered piece included the two layers shown as well as two additional layers (a map and an information layer). All elements were secured with red eyelets to the top of a red folder with the tree line custom laser cut and folded up from the bottom. Matching thank you cards were also purchased. The layer below offered a perf across the top as well as between the response card and ski discount for easy removal.

Another formal country club wedding and reception, but on a more limited budget. The bride's colors were ivory and coral so we were very careful to achieve the right color - not too pink, not too orange. Just one of the many perks of custom design. Save-the-dates, invitations, thank you cards, response cards, place cards, and rehearsal menus all coordinated incorporating variations of the same design.

Call us to schedule a complimentary initial consultation to learn about our custom designs. From high-end to budget, we'll help you incorporate just the look and feel you want.

2010-12-13T08:53:00.001-06:00

Beyond the norm with gift options - http://ping.fm/ZduxV

Tired of the Standard Bridal Party Gifts?

2010-12-13T08:47:00.000-06:00

As a follow up to the article in last month's newsletter, here are more websites to peruse for special gifts that say “thank you” to your groom, groomsmen, bride, bridesmaids, parents, and guests. Each link has been listed under the category for which we believe it best fits, but most of them carry a broad range of gifts for anyone (including those last minute holiday gifts!)

For Her:

My Bridesmaids Gifts
Beau-coup
Cherished Gifts and Favors

Gunther Gifts customized baseball bat

For Him:

Personalization Mall
Groom Stand
Gunther Gifts

For Them:

American Bridal
My Wedding Favors

http://www.treesforlife.org/ - the gift of hope

Beyond the Norm:

Cambria Cove
Lenox
Tiffany

And Over the Top:

The VIP Concierge
Pianki

When selecting gifts, consider the interests and personality of each individual. It is not necessary to provide the same gift for each person, however, it is best to stay within the same price range for groomsmen and bridesmaids. Maids of honor and best men can be the exception since they play a larger role. When selecting gifts for each other, make sure it is personal enough to create a memory (the huge bouquet of roses on Pianki) or an item that can be treasured and passed down as an heirloom (engraved watch).

~Jami

2010-11-24T08:06:00.001-06:00

All About Candy Buffets http://ping.fm/GViFY

Sweet On You - All About Candy Buffets

2010-11-22T08:23:00.002-06:00

Candy Buffets are hugely popular for weddings right now and they're so much fun and so versatile, why not include one at yours? There are a few necessities as well as a few things to determine before you begin.
First, are you going to be a candy purist? In other words, are you only offering candy items? Some couples like to have a sweet & salty offering, others include fruit & vegetables. We spoke with a bride a few days ago who prefers an offering of
Twinkies, Ding Dongs, and other similar childhood favorites. Maybe your buffet will be strictly chocolate!

Second, are you going to be a color purist? Will the items you offer follow the color(s) of your wedding?

Third, do you have a budget in mind for this buffet? The images shown showcase the very basic and the very extravagant. Where will yours fall on the spectrum?

Once you have made those determinations, you can begin to gather the necessities. Here's what it will take:

Containers. The popular glass apothecary jars are quite pricey to purchase, but look stunning. Details offers several for rent if you are utilizing our planning services. In general, the glass containers work well as they create a lovely aesthetic while allowing your candy selections to shine. If you are purchasing, take into consideration the types of food you'll be offering and the size of container that will be needed. Also, make sure the opening is large enough to access the goodies!

Scoops. The Container Store has the best price and variety of scoops. Unless you live near one of their stores, expect to pay hefty shipping fees for your inexpensive little dippers!

Candy Bags. You can get creative depending on your budget, but the best option if you're on a budget is to stick with either cellophane or bakery bags.

Labels. You may wish to label each candy jar so there is no question what your guests are about to pop into their mouths. There's a multitude of ways to do this from little table tents to tags attached to ribbons to stickers. Speaking of stickers, consider a fun option for securing your guests' candy bags. This might be with ribbon or with a custom sticker with your monogram or theme.

Décor. Offering a candy buffet with the supplies above creates an eye catching presentation, but why not make just a bit more effort and make it spectacular? Incorporate fun linens, flowers, or, if you rent a candy buffet from Details, you have the option to rent our large lollipops!

Goodies. As mentioned above, this can be anything you wish it to be. Often, brides ask us how much candy? You'll need to take three things into consideration to answer this question. First, the size of your guest list. If it is large (250+), you can figure ¼ lb to ½ lb per person. The second plays into the first question: Is this for fun or is it your dessert option? Is this presented as your guest favor? If you answer yes to one of the latter two, error on the high side for quantity. The third item to take into consideration is the impact you want your buffet to make. Brides with smaller guest lists may wish to purchase a large quantity of candy (particularly the cheaper varieties) in order to make it a focal point and destination.

Fillers. The larger vessels create the most visual impact but to fill them completely with your candies of choice can get pricey quickly. A beautiful, inexpensive option is to use “fillers”. Fillers are placed in the jar first, with candy filling the remaining space. There are so many filler options! Sugar, rice, gumballs, coffee beans, fruit (lemons, limes), rocks, and on and on.

While you can't please all of your guests, if you are aware of allergies you may wish to play it safe and leave those peanuts off the buffet. Also, consider your weather. Hot and humid weather can be disastrous for certain candies – especially chocolate!

I have seen brides “skimp out” for their candy buffet and that's exactly what it looks like. By spending just a bit more money you'll be able to kill several birds with one stone – a special gift for your guests, a dynamic focal point, munchies to keep energy high while dancing, and additional fun.

A snapshot of the Details candy buffet at a recent bridal show. Since ours was bar height, we were careful not to place items so high that guests could not reach into the vessels. What you can't see here, unfortunately, is that the twin bases of the candy buffet were lit by pedestals
rented from Dream Lighting Company.

If any photographers have a better image of our buffet, please share it!

“Research tells us fourteen out of any ten individuals likes chocolate." Sandra Boynton

~Jami

2010-11-04T06:56:00.001-05:00

Wedding Day Beauty Tips http://ping.fm/D8Dvd

Mirror, Mirror, on the Wall

2010-11-04T06:27:00.000-05:00

Even with all the wedding day decisions that have to be made weighing heavily on your mind as a bride-to-be, we know you haven’t stopped envisioning the way you want to look on your wedding day. You picture yourself walking down the aisle in the beautiful gown that accentuates your features perfectly, with your hair perfectly arranged and your face glowing not only from the flawlessly applied make-up but also from the sheer happiness of the day.

It’s easy enough to imagine these things but let’s be honest – most of us don’t wake up in the mornings looking like some kind of goddess. To attain the look you want on your wedding day is going to require a little research and planning. It’s probably a good idea to hire a professional to handle at least the fashioning of your hair, if not the application of your make-up as well. Here are a few things to keep in mind when you’re considering your personal beautification for the wedding:

If you struggle with skin problems, it might not hurt to visit a local dermatologist or esthetician to help you tackle those issues. Don’t wait until the last minute to do this. Consult these professionals months (6-12) in advance.

If you’re thinking about laser hair removal, begin researching this up to a year in advance. The process can be long and hairy (pun intended).

If laser hair removal isn’t your thing, consider waxing critical areas for your wedding day. You may want to have your legs, bikini line or under your arms done for your day as well as the honeymoon.

Schedule a trial hair and make-up session with your specialists a month or two in advance. You want to make sure you’re all on the same page when it comes to your desired look. If you want a more natural make-up application, you don’t want your make-up artist turning your face into that of a clown’s ON your wedding day.

Most make-up artists will make sure of this but double-check that the make-up you’re using is waterproof. Even if you don’t consider yourself much of a crier, it isn’t a bad idea to use waterproof make-up just in case.

Ask a friend – maybe the maid of honor or your mother – to keep an eye on your make-up and to let you know if you need to reapply at some point during the day.

Have an emergency kit readily available in case something comes up. If Details is your wedding coordinator, we will provide a kit for you but this should include a small sewing kit, bobby pins, safety pins, a tampon, breath mints, hairspray, a hairbrush, clear nail polish, lipstick and other beauty essentials. This way, you’ll be fully prepared for any mini or full size crises that may occur!

Don’t stress too much over some of these minor details. Being prepared always helps ease a worried mind and don’t hesitate to give Details a call if at any point you find yourself in need of a little, or a lot, extra help!

Meg

2010-10-18T20:47:00.001-05:00

The Traumas of Wedding Planning http://ping.fm/5Q9BK

The Traumas of Wedding Planning

2010-10-18T20:37:00.000-05:00

You're engaged! How exciting! Everyone is thrilled . . . and has plenty of thoughts as to where your reception should be held, what colors you should choose, which DJ is best, cake flavors . . . yada, yada, yada. Isn't this supposed to be YOUR day?

Too many opinions from loved ones can certainly bring on extra stress and cause strain in your relationships, but there are ways to head off, avoid, or work through these differences. Even if it is with the groom. Or worse, your mother. Or even more worse, his mother.

1) Always listen politely to what they have to say, then say something to the effect of, "Hmm, I'll keep that in mind." This is not a lie. If you like the suggestion, you are likely to remember it and potentially use it. If it is horrendous, you will certainly not be forgetting about it anytime soon! As a matter of fact, it will probably be something you laugh about for many years after your wedding.

2) While robotically following item #1, put together your budget and a wish list. Then, have a discussion with anyone who might be contributing financially as to how much or what elements they wish to pay for. If one set of parents is planning to pay a large portion but has a very different expectation for your special day, you may want to reconsider the financial arrangements.

3) Pick your battles. Stay firm on what is most important to you. Is there a way to compromise on some of the issues? Your mother would like for you to wear her wedding dress, but it's not your style. Can you wear her pearl necklace instead? Can you incorporate some of the lace from her dress into your veil or garter?

4) Depending on your relationship with the groom's parents, either the two of you, or him alone, should have a discussion as to how involved they expect or wish to be in the planning process. Understanding their expectations right up front can prevent surprises and hard feelings along the way. The mother/son bond is often very special and including her can reassure her that you're not stealing him away.

5) Bridesmaids are your closest friends and should be very happy for you. Sometimes, though, a little envy can set in. Maybe there is one in the group who is not yet married and no prospects in site, despite trying hard (too hard most times!). Maybe one realizes that the relationship between the two of you is going to be different now that you're about to be someone's wife. Schedule a little one on one time with the friend and find out what is really upsetting her. I'm sure deep down she couldn't be happier that you've found a special person with which to spend the rest of your life.

Bottom line, keep a smile on your face because it is definitely your day, and you want to make sure to let the special people in your life know that they are still the special people in your life regardless of the change in your last name.

~Jami

2010-10-13T07:46:00.001-05:00

What a difference a planner makes! http://ping.fm/fnjSM

Recent Wedding Images

2010-10-04T16:34:00.001-05:00

What we love about weddings is that each is unique and personal to the bride and groom's personality, season, location, and budget. We are not planners who recreate the same cookie-cutter look for each venue. You're unique, your event should be too!

We do not yet have the professional shots for the events shown below, but we hope you'll enjoy the images I was able to capture with my cell phone. Two couples, two seasons, two locales, two budgets . . . two very different looks. What's your vision for your special day?

Ashley and Derek 10.02.10 Lake Geneva, Wisconsin at The Riviera, Victorian theme

The couple and their court looking out onto their 225 guests.

Centerpieces with pheasant feathers and antique topiary frames. Table numbers in vintage frames.

Each of the four cake flavors was identified by a Victorian looking frame from Pier 1.

The bride purchased vintage skeleton keys online which were attached to tags with the guests' names and table numbers. The groom created the framed display.

Pre-event (You don't want to see Post-event!).

Victorian looking candlelabras ornamented the cocktail tables.

The beautiful cake from Aggies of Milwaukee.

Tanya and Chris 8.21.10 Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin at Sand Bay Beach Resort, beach theme

Small beach-themed items that the bride and her friends already owned made perfect decor items to set the mood.

Rental items were provided by You'll Be Floored.

Simple, elegant, and stunning centerpieces further enhanced the beach romance.

Linens in watery colors tied the reception tent to the water in view.

Tables were identified by white shell plates labeled with Disney's Little Mermaid related phrases and characters.

Roast pig served on the buffet dressed up the event.

Cake Anatomy in Kaukauna created the pearlized cake with edible shells.

Details created the custom monogram and labels and jumped in bake and decorate the starfish cookies when the original supplier bailed.

Creating Your Signature Drink

2010-10-01T11:57:00.000-05:00

Signature drinks are all the rage at the moment and why not? They're a great way to infuse a little of your personality and theme into your reception drink options. Make sure you meet with your planner and your bartender to get their creative expertise, but use the information below to prep yourself for the discussion.

1.What is the theme of my day? Beach parties often lean toward margaritas, but there are so many other options!

2.The season of your wedding should have an impact on your signature drink decision. In general, drinks provided during summer should be chilled and have a cooling effect. The opposite can be true for a winter wedding.

3.Even if you choose to provide a margarita, have it created in one of your wedding colors or use colored salt around the rim to coordinate. Some drinks can be tinted to match your colors, others may capture your color by the liquids used such as cranberry or tomato juice for a red scheme.

4.Consider what your favorite drinks are, alcoholic or non.

5.Garnishes are not just for looks, pretty as they may be. Berries, edible flowers, and candy sticks among others will add flavor to your drink.

6.Always have a non-alcoholic option for your non-drinking guests. And, don't assume that your signature drink has to be alcoholic. Providing a fun, complimentary, non-alcohol signature drink encourages guests to partake of it and thus reduces your open bar tab. Please also note that if you're offering a signature drink, it should be complimentary to your guests.

7.Then, be sure to give it a special day for your special day!

Seasonal:

Winter – pears, apples, cranberries, kiwi, lemon, spices, maple syrup

Spring – green grapes, apricots, honeydew, limes, mango, oranges, pineapple

Summer – watermelon, blackberries, cherries, raspberries, coconut, strawberries, blueberries

Fall – pomegranates, pumpkins, pears, chestnuts, grapefruit, lemons, oranges

A little gift for fall...

Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate

Makes half a gallon of cocoa

Ingredients:
4 cups 2% milk
3/4 cup half and half
2 cups semisweet chocolate chips
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2/3 cup of creamy peanut butter
Salt to taste
Whipped cream (optional)

Directions:
1.In a small medium saucepan, heat milk and half and half to 165°F, or until you see foamy bubbles begin to form around the edges. Do not bring it to a full, rolling boil.

2.Pour in chocolate chips and stir constantly until all of the chocolate is melted.

3.Add peanut butter and brown sugar, again stirring until completely melted and combined.

4.If your cocoa is not smooth or has chunks of peanut butter floating around that simply will not melt, run the cocoa through the blender and reheat again before serving.

5.Salt to taste and serve with an optional dollop on whipped cream.

Creative Control Contest

2010-09-23T09:51:00.003-05:00

Creative Control Special Offer - 25% off Planning Fees!

Some brides just wanna have fun! And while spending hours and hours (days, weeks, months) planning a wedding may seem like fun to some, for others this is the worst part of becoming engaged. Avoid the planning headaches by contracting us to handle all of your planning decisions for you and rest assured you're going to walk in to the most beautiful and memorable event of your life that will have your guests oohing and awwing!
Let Details allow you to Live the Fairytale.

You'll still complete our 5 page Bridal Questionnaire so that we understand your personal style and your budget, even color preferences if you choose. Then, sit back, relax, and allow us to create a beautiful and memorable event for you and your guests!

Check out examples from Brides.com.

Minimum budget restrictions apply based on guest count.

The first bride to contract for our Creative Control package earns 25% off our planning fees! You must mention this special offer when contacting us to book your complimentary initial consultation.

920.364.0212 Wisconsin

614.448.1253 Ohio

requestinfo@detailsplanningcompany.com

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2010-09-09T13:13:00.001-05:00

Father/Daughter dance song options www.wix.com/Detailsllc/September-News

Random Facts About Important Stuff

2010-08-30T18:07:00.003-05:00

Or, we could title this, Important Facts About Random Stuff; whatever suits you best. In either case, it is fun information worth knowing.

Did you know that the bride and groom should not raise their glass when being toasted? You are being honored and therefore it is considered rude to toast yourselves. (Now that you know this, it will be interesting to see how many of you remember!)

The receiving line is a wonderful way to greet all of your ceremony guests and thank them for attending, but did you know it began with a different agenda? It was believed that the bride and groom were blessed and those who touched them would receive good luck as well.

It was believed to be good luck to garner a piece of clothing from the bride and groom. Often, as guests became intoxicated, guests would destroy the bride's dress to have a bit of lucky charm. The tradition began of tossing the bride's garter into the crowd to keep them at bay.

When the officiant says, "You may now kiss the bride," it is not purely in celebration. In Roman times, a legal bond is sealed with a kiss, therefore, you are signifying to your guests that you are entering into a life-long contract with each other.

As the mother of a 20 something, I wish to revert back to the original intent of a wedding shower when men would prove their interest by bringing gifts to the bride's father. Food, land, livestock, and money were given as "payment" for the bride. From this, the ritual evolved into the practive of men bringing gifts of clothes, jewels, gold, and dishes to the young lady to show he could provide well for her. Gentlemen, I'm sure the ladies would love to revive this ancient tradition.

We all know that whoever catches the tossed bouquet is expected to be the next to marry. But, did you know that this young lady should also take a small slice of the wedding cake and sleep with it under her pillow? Doing so will cause her to dream of her future husband on that night. Hmm, I'd like for someone to try this and let me know how it turns out!

Oddly, it seems there is also a bit of superstition regarding the making of the bride's dress although the information seems confused. Some believe that it brings good luck if the bride makes her own dress; others believe the opposite. I can guarantee that it would be bad luck for my daughter to make her own wedding dress!

And for a little fun, check out these rhymes:

Marry in white, you will do all right
Marry in blue, your man will be true
Marry in brown, you will live in town
Marry in green, you should be ashamed to be seen
Marry in red, wish yourself dead
Marry in black, better turn back
Marry in yellow, not marrying the right fellow
Marry in gray, sadness will come your way

Marry on Monday for wealth,
Tuesday for health,
Wednesday the very best day of all,
Thursday you will soon be counting your losses,
Friday your crosses,
and if married on Saturday, you will have no luck at all!

Ah, the good ol' days!

2010-08-26T20:13:00.001-05:00

What are you thoughts on our new blog look? http://ping.fm/9fZlm

A Few Images from Heather and Jeff's Recent Wedding

2010-08-23T21:27:00.000-05:00

Heather and Jeff - ceremony and reception at North Shore Golf Club, cake by Cakescapes, flowers by Phase 2 Floral, professional photography images by Laurie Marie Photography. Setup photos by me and my phone :)

Stunning cake.

Clark helps to swag the table overlays.

Ashley works hard to finish the swagging.

Prior to floral.

And after floral!

2010-08-23T13:38:00.001-05:00

We've been blogged! Check it out at http://ping.fm/7UEfN

2010-08-16T19:47:00.001-05:00

View our August Newsletter! http://ping.fm/fB5E6

A Great New Event Planning Company | Capital Club | Columbus, Ohio

2010-08-16T16:22:00.000-05:00

Take a peek!

A Great New Event Planning Company Capital Club Columbus, Ohio

2010-08-09T19:59:00.001-05:00

So you've been asked to be the best man...http://ping.fm/177fI

So You've Been Asked to be the Best Man...

2010-08-09T19:57:00.000-05:00

Do a Google search on Best Man Duties and you'll find plenty of information - most with unrealistic expectations of what you're truly going to be asked to do and what you're willing to do. Seriously, no bride is going to ask you to help pick out the tuxes! Organize the fittings? Yeah, right!

So realistically, what is your role?

A) Talk your groom into hiring a wedding planner. While true, this is a shameful tactic of garnering business for my industry, it is also our hand of friendship extended to you, the Best Man, in an effort to save you from doing mundane tasks leading up to and the day of the wedding so that you can focus on the hot chick on the dance floor. Trust us. Enlist the help of the Maid of Honor in your campaign for a wedding planner; she'll thank us too.

B) So by covering Item A, you are now able to cross about 8 things off of your Best Man To-Do list. Moving on to the serious stuff that you might actually want to do, let's start with planning the bachelor party. Yes, I'd thought you'd like that. And, if you're totally unorganized (or just an awesome delegator) you can call a planner for that too. (Ask us about opportunities at Lambeau Field!)

C) Be a confidant of the groom. We're not talking necessarily about the sappy stuff, although that may happen too, we're talking about just being there for him to bounce ideas.

D) Most Best Men are called upon to give a toast or speech. If you've been asked to do so, give it some real thought and practice. Off the cuff really doesn't work well.

E) Pay attention during the rehearsal. You actually have an important job the day of the wedding . . . you're the keeper of the rings (the ring bearer is usually just there to look cute) so you'd better follow directions during the rehearsal so you understand the expectations.

F) Help the groom get dressed. This may be literal or not, but in any case, you're expected to be there and be his right-hand man. The most important part of this? Help him stay relaxed, be his coach, psychiatrist, whatever he requires at the time.

G) Sign the marriage license as a witness. That's why you're there!

The groom selected you because you add value to his life and he wants you, out of his many friends, to stand beside him on this special day. Take this seriously and relish the momentous occasion of which you are honored to be a part.

~Jami

2010-08-02T21:32:00.001-05:00

Get the scoop on photographers! http://ping.fm/XAV9l

Not All Photographers are Created Equal

2010-08-02T21:24:00.000-05:00

“Don’t worry my _________ is a wedding photographer."

Fill in the blank with whatever noun you choose, but know that you could very well be gambling with evidence of one of the most important days of your life.

That sounds harsh, I know, but I also know all too well how devastating it is to find out that your wedding photos did not turn out. If you're a client of ours, you have probably already heard my spiel on hiring a photographer. As a professional planner, I am bombarded by people who own a camera and consider themselves "professional wedding photographers". They certainly want to get on our radar and why not, we have the capacity to recommend many clients their way. But be forewarned; not all photographers are created equally.

My husband and I, with our two adult children, recently renewed our wedding vows after twenty-five years of marriage. The main reason for doing so, was to show that we would make the same decision today as we did in 1985. Renewing our vows was also a way for us to celebrate the wonderful years we've had together. But, there was more.

Upon learning of our engagement late in '84, a friend who was a photography professor at a nearby college graciously offered to take our wedding photos for only the cost of the film and printing (no digital back then!). While we had not seen any of her images, we were not concerned. But something happened. The film got damaged and alas, she had not a single image for us. At most, we have probably half a dozen images the best man's wife took with her 126 camera. And trust me, she was no photographer!

Just days after returning from our vow renewal in Colorado Springs, I found out that a very similar experience happened to my nephew and his new wife. The bride, a photographer, had enlisted a friend and fellow photographer to capture the memories of her special day on film only to find out that the friend had used the wrong lens. No photos.

While accidents can happen to anyone, there are ways to be prepared. First, as the bride and groom, allow your planner to make recommendations of professionals with which she has confidence. Second, ask if the photographer brings an assistant who will also be photographing. Third, find out if they bring a backup camera...just in case. Finally, if a friend offers their assistance politely decline stating that you've heard horror stories and don't want any remote possibility of something like that coming between your friendship. Tell her you would much rather her celebrate with you by being a guest.

Twenty-five years later and I love our wedding photos! A huge thank you to Tamera at Click Photography for filling that void. However, my advice to my nephew and anyone else in the same boat is to get dressed up again and go get some photos! In twenty-five years, it will not matter to you that it was three or four weeks after your wedding day. You'll still have that big smile...from the bliss of being a newlywed!

Here's a small sampling of what a great photographer can do!

2010-07-28T14:42:00.001-05:00

Wedding Cake Knowledge http://ping.fm/SpUeP

Slicing Up the Cake Options

2010-07-25T21:58:00.000-05:00

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.

What About Wedding Insurance?

2010-07-13T09:43:00.000-05:00

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

2010-06-21T17:13:00.001-05:00

Glitter, Beyond the Engagement Ring http://ping.fm/h6vVX

Glitter Beyond the Engagement Ring

2010-06-21T15:55:00.000-05:00

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.

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:

Adorn

Avelle

Anna Bellagio

Vintage Bridal Jewelry

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

2010-06-15T14:38:00.001-05:00

Honeymoon options http://ping.fm/dXHCD

Decisions, Decisions

2010-06-13T21:19:00.000-05:00

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.

1)Camino Real Acapulco Diamante

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.

3)The Bellagio Hotel

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.

4)Hawaii

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.

5)Florence, Italy

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!

2010-06-10T14:55:00.001-05:00

Stress Less About the Dress http://ping.fm/0zBw1

Stress Less Dress Shopping

2010-06-10T14:42:00.000-05:00

"No one tells you how stressful dress shopping can be!"

Many women begin dreaming of their wedding day at a very early age and even if the other details are hazy, the perception of a perfect wedding dress is clear. When the young lady final has opportunity to shop for this dream, the anticipation has often built to a crescendo that surpasses a child's excitement at Christmas. There are many issues that can cause the search to become stressful, but here are a few tips on how to reduce that potential as much as humanly possible.

- 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.

- Don't wait until the last minute! Shopping early gives you the luxury of options. 9-12 months in advance is a great time frame.

- 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.

- Be open to the sales clerk's suggestions. They are trained to dress varying body types and personalities and understand the benefits and challenges of particular styles and fabrics. Utilize their expertise. You may find that what you purchase is totally different from what you anticipated buying, but it is perfect!

- 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!

- Too many people add confusion. Take at least one person, maybe two, who are supportive, honest, and your cheerleader.

- 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