So you've fallen for a techie http://ping.fm/k7LnG

So You've Fallen for a Techie

I admit that sometimes my brain is fried and I struggle to come up with a blog topic that will be informative and fun for our readers.  We've been very busy the last few weeks and, obviously, we did not get a post up last Monday and we're behind again this week, so the pressure was/is on to produce something that will engage you.  Then, BAM! (Who says that?  Emeril?) an idea hits you like a rock between the eyes.  This particular rock was courtesy of my 18 year old son, who sent me the photo below. If nothing else, I hope you find the post entertaining, whether you are a techie, you love a techie, or you just know a techie.

This is a "code" cupcake tree!

The image brought a smile to my face, especially since it came from my son.  Now, he's not usually into this whole "wedding thing", but obviously, he found this image entertaining and wanted to share it with me.  His future wedding cake?  I don't know, but what I do know is this...

• A tech-theme is sure to put a smile on your guests' faces and to create a memory for both you and them.
• This could be a great way to get the groom involved and excited about the festivities that come before the honeymoon.
• The possibilities are endless, even if the budget is not.

So what would be some options for creating that tech feel?  I've listed a few below, but please, share your ideas with us, too!

• Spectacular lighting will be huge in pulling off this theme.  Your lighting supplier (not the DJ!) and your planner can provide you will a multitude of options. And if your budget allows, incorporate LED lit cocktail tables and bars!
• Use a real audio visual company to discuss options for various screens in a variety of locations which are capturing the action live.  Perfect when Uncle Joe has had too many drinks and begins to dance!
• Lit "ice" cubes.  Not so high-tech, but certainly adds to the fun factor.
• Dancing...are you in to techno music :) Some suppliers also have lit dance floors.
• For centerpieces, why not incorporate hardware into the floral designs as well as LEDs?
• Ah yes, and that video presentation that everyone is doing?  Why not make yours a 3-D experience :)
• Favors are easy.  At any given time there's a vast array of techie gadgets or lookalikes (think Iphone cookies or motherboard photo frames) that can be shared with your guests.

The most important thing to remember is that this is YOUR day.  Express who you are, have some fun, and create a memory.

~Jami

How to stay friends with your bridal party http://ping.fm/4PrtP

How to Ensure Your Friends are Still That . . . AFTER Your Wedding

(Selecting bridesmaid dresses)

When you first ask your bosom buddies to be in your wedding party for the big day, the bond of sisterhood you had grows exponentially, and you immediately start discussing every detail of your wedding. You imagine the flowers, the lighting, the music, and then begin to approach that ever touchy subject. It has been the age old haunt of the bride’s best friends since the very first wedding ceremony: the bridesmaid dress.

You don’t want to be overshadowed by your bridesmaids looking simply fantastic on the wedding day, but you don’t want your friends to suffer the tragedy of pastels, bows, and tulle either.  I mean, these are the girls who are throwing your bachelorette party; you don’t want to upset them. So what do you do? 

                                                                                               

Here are a few ideas to get things going in a positive direction.

Girls Night. Have all of you bridesmaids get together for an evening of bonding about 6 months before the wedding, if not earlier. Have everyone bring in their favorite dress or a photo of their ideal dress, including yourself.  Talk about what makes each dress special to them.  This will give you an idea of what your favorite girls are most comfortable in. You will have some ideas of what to look for, and your bridesmaids are reassured that you are keeping their interest in mind.

Make a list! Once you have a good idea of what your bridesmaids like, figure out what YOU want. Brainstorm what you are looking for. What colors are you interested in? Do you want long or short dresses? Do you want dresses at all? Do you want the dresses to match exactly or have little differences? Will the maid of honor be wearing anything unique? Do you want to get accessories such as hats, wraps, or handbags? What can you and/or your bridesmaids afford? Make a wish list of the key features you're looking for, and then share that list with your bridesmaids. It has always been this blogger's experience that a list of goals makes searching for anything simpler.

Time to browse. Go online or to local shops and see what is available. Your options are nearly limitless when it comes to bridesmaids dresses. There are even online sites where you can create a virtual wedding party and see what everyone will look like on the big day. (Give this site a try Dress Your Wedding by David's Bridal). You can be traditional, exotic, summery, alternative, formal or casual all from the comfort of your laptop!

It is important to remember that everyone is going to have an opinion and it will be stressful. But, if you know what you are looking for things will go much smoother! Have those bridesmaids try on their dresses well in advance. If you avoid giant ruffles and bows, your friends will still be there after the reception! 

~ Andrea

Meet Andrea!  She's one of our newest Columbus, Ohio staff members and will be focusing on the bridal side of our business.  Contact her at 614.448.1253 or andrea@detailsplanningcompany.com to schedule a complimentary consultation!

Setting the Scene - adding a backdrop to your event http://ping.fm/44hxv

Set the Scene

Ah, beautiful, isn't it?  The hills of Tuscany.  Is there a more beautiful location in which to marry?  Even if you, as the bride and groom, had the money to fly off to Italy and marry in the countryside many of your friends and family may not be able to afford such extravagance.  Rather than take your guests to the location, why not bring the location to them?  Yes, it's doable!  There are companies that create massive backdrops in a variety of scenes and sizes that allow planners to transform any space into the clients' fantasy (visit Grosh or Backdrops Fantastic) .  And, believe it or not, it's not as hard on the budget as you might think.  Once you've decided you wish to look into this option and you've determined your budget will allow it, you'll want to consider your venue.  If you've just booked the stately mansion with historic woodwork knee deep you won't want to cover that beauty with an artificial backdrop.  However, if you're considering the popular hotel banquet room that leaves much to the imagination then let's invite your guests to do just that!  It is recommended that you let your professional planner do the research for you which will include researching options that fit your theme and budget as well as conducting a site preview at the venue to determine the exact size and location for the backdrop.  They'll also ensure on-time delivery and setup so that when you and your guests enter the space, you're transported to a whole new world.

To further enhance your theme, a professional planner can compile a variety of resources such as specialty linens, ambient lighting, floral and other elements.  For instance, did you know that for as little as $35 each you can rent European-style street lamps?  Imagine those with a few rented topiaries and a backdrop of the Eiffel Tower . . . your guests' jaws will drop!  What a beautiful way to create a memorable event.  Call us at 920.364.0212 or 614.448.1253 to learn more.

A princess must have her castle!

Rent a series of these to pull off that jazzy penthouse vibe.

Are you a political junkie?  Stars and Stripes forever!

For those winter brides, set the scene and let us create a winter wonderland with beautiful accessories!

Looking to have some fun?  Oh, think of the flower arrangements and table linens that could accompany this Dr. Suess backdrop!

Van Gogh will never fail to impress.  Add beautiful perimeter lighting in blues and a few dramatic linens for a sophisticated and artsy theme.

What's your favorite?  If you could have anything, what type of backdrop what would you incorporate?

~Jami