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Monday, June 25, 2012

Stress Relief Techniques


I don’t know about you ladies but this has been a stressful and frustrating week for me. When I returned home from visiting my parents in Wisconsin over the weekend, I discovered my internet modem was dead. Not just malfunctioning but not turning on at all.  This would be a frustrating discovery for anyone but because I work from home several evenings throughout the week, and on the weekends, I realized this was going to be a huge problem. After calling AT&T and finding out I wouldn’t get my new modem until Monday, I knew I would be staying late at the office nearly everyday for the rest of the week.

Have you ever felt frustrated and felt like the universe was picking on you, just to make things worse? That was my feeling all week! Most likely, it was only my crummy attitude bringing out the pessimist in me but sometimes, it’s hard to get tough with yourself and cheer up!

Because I know I can’t be the only one who has felt this way, this article will not be about bridal showers or tuxedo options for the groom or wedding favors. It’s going to be about stress-busting tips. We all need to take a break from life every once in a while; we need to make sure we’re taking care of ourselves and not only our to-do list. 

The following are a few of my favorite stress relief techniques. Directions here are easy: read and apply. 

1.  Indulge in your favorite movie that you haven’t seen in forever. Or maybe rent a movie you’ve been dying to see but haven’t made time to watch. I recommend a funny movie, like rolling-on-the-floor, holding-your-sides funny. Example: Bridesmaids. That movie gets me every time! Plus, it’s appropriate given this is a wedding planning blog. 

Side Note: Buy a slurpee, large coke, milkshake, etc and pop some popcorn to enjoy with the movie. Eating makes people happy. Did you know when you eat during your stress-busting session calories don’t count??

2.    Go on a drive and listen to your favorite music. I heard from a friend who took a psychology class (so you know it’s true) that many people find taking a drive to be relaxing because it gives you the feeling of being in control. You’re in control of the car, your destination if you have one, your radio station – the whole trip, long or short as it may be. This is particularly therapeutic if it’s a beautiful summer night. I think another added benefit is the alone time factor. You have as much time as you want to sort out the thoughts in your head, if you want to do that.

3. Spend time with your favorite four-legged friend. Petting an animal is shown to reduce blood pressure, never mind that often pets are great company when you can no longer tolerate the presence of other humans. If you have a dog, take him or her for a walk. Then you’re busting calories and stress! If you’re a cat-lover, like me, cuddle up and take a nap with your kitty. (I am also a nap-lover so this busts double the stress for me.)


Okay, so I didn’t do a TON of research to come up with these tips. But let’s face it, sometimes we don’t need specialists or scientific data to help us chill out. We just need someone else to tell us that 1) not only is it okay for us to take time for ourselves, it’s absolutely necessary and 2) to remind us that relaxing doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated.

Already it’s the beginning of a new week and I know I’m going to be busy with extra work but we can all find time to take it easy when we need it. Don’t let life’s little stressors get to you!

Plus, you know that if it’s your wedding stressing you out, all you need to do is give Details a call :)  We’ll be sure to take a load off your shoulders in no time!

-Meg





Wednesday, June 13, 2012

Great Groomsmen Gifts



I don’t know about you but I REALLY enjoy buying gifts for other people. My favorite kinds of gifts are those that are unexpected and thoughtful and all around wonderful. I am not so good at buying gifts for birthdays, Christmas, etc. For some reason, I struggle with the planned gift giving. If I’m out someplace and see some cool little trinket that reminds me of someone I love, I have to buy it for them. Then I need a reason for giving it to them so it becomes a two-month early birthday gift or an Easter surprise or a Christmas in July thing. You get the picture.

But predictable gift giving times, I struggle with. I forget or become distracted and the gift doesn’t get bought or given. Fail.

Maybe you are AWESOME at gift giving, unlike me, and already know exactly what you’re giving your bridesmaids. Perhaps you have been planning for weeks what special item you can bestow upon each of your friends that has so graciously agreed to be a part of your wedding day. If that is you, then gold star! You’re ahead of the game.

I don’t want to stereotype (but I’m going to) so here it is: your guy has probably given little to no thought on what to get for his groomsmen. He may be vaguely aware that he is supposed to get a gift to thank each man for his participation in the wedding party but that’s about as far as he’s made it in the brainstorming process.

Let’s help the fella out! I’ve already done a bit of research to get some ideas moving so maybe you’ll want to share these with your man.


  Idea 1: Okay, my first thought was, “CUTEEE!!!” I’m guessing my reaction will be different from any man’s. But let’s be real here, this is an awesome gift. You can do a couple different things with this, depending on your wedding party. I got this idea from Pinterest but after some quick investigating, discovered it originated on Etsy. Some creator was making and selling them but bad news. It looks like she is no longer offering them.  Sad face.  However, I’m thinking a bride or groom could either contact this creator and ask specifically for these gifts or you could make it yourself! Now, apparently that’s a bottle of wine but I’m sure you could do a bottle of Jack, gin, vodka, whatever each particular groomsman would like.  If you really wanted to make this gift jazzy, you could include nice cufflinks, too. Put your own spin on it! The more personalized it is, the more thoughtful it is.  

  
Idea 2: Mustaches are all the rage right now. Don’t ask me why but they are EVERYWHERE. These toiletry bags are not only humorous and personalized but functional, too. Guys love stuff they can actually use! These are also available on Etsy.






Idea 3: Once again, Etsy deserves our gratitude for introducing us to these vintage-looking cigar boxes. By cigar boxes, I mean something much more functional than that. I’m not 50 years old so I don’t know many men who smoke cigars, let alone have a need for a special box in which to put them. These boxes are handmade and painted so if you want a special design or wording, the creator can do that for you. Just ask! They’re lined with felt so they’re great for storing men’s watches, cufflinks, wallets, etc.

I hope these ideas have given you and your man at least a good starting point for the groomsmen gifts. The men and women you’ve carefully selected to join you in your wedding party are meaningful to you and deserve very special thanks. If you are finding yourself in need of more inspiration, chat up the ladies at Details by leaving a comment below or contacting one of us through the main website. We’re always here to lend a helping hand!

PS - If you haven't checked out Etsy yet, you really should. Maybe you haven't noticed but it's awesome! :)

-Meg




Thursday, June 7, 2012

Vintage Wedding Ideas


Hello again Details blog readers! I hope you’re having an absolutely fantastic first week of June! If you are not, then I am truly sorry but I have some news that may cheer you right up. The blog post you are about to read will hopefully inspire you and get the creative wedding juices flowing. We all know how stressful it can be to plan a wedding. I don’t know about you but when I’m stressed, what I really need is a reminder of how beautiful life can be. I might go on a walk and lose myself in my surroundings or concoct a spontaneous adventure with a good friend.  Whatever it takes to refocus and recalibrate! Don’t let yourself get sucked into the sometimes tedious details of wedding planning. You SHOULD be letting your wedding coordinator (cue Details) handle those things for you! If you haven’t already talked to Jami or Nicole about how Details can make your life easier, you should really get on that. What are you waiting for?!

It looks like I’ve gotten a little carried away. Silly me. (But really, you should call them.) Anyway, this blog post is about vintage wedding ideas. Which just happens to be MY ABSOLUTE FAVORITE wedding topic! I love the idea of taking something old and bringing it back to life. Let’s take a few moments, maybe this is your mini-escape today, and explore some of the super cool, beautiful, and soul-reviving stuff I found! 


1. Do you know what this is? If you don’t, you should call up your parents and verbally berate them for depriving you of a childhood staple. It’s a Float and Sundae Bar! Such an awesome vintage idea. The classic shake and sundae glassware are adorable details that make this dessert bar special. Note the straws, too! I guarantee your guests will rave about this feature should you choose to incorporate it.


2. For a second, I wondered how I would pass this off as “vintage.” Don’t fret; I’ve figured it out. The Polaroid camera you’ll need for this wedding memory is what makes the idea vintage! When’s the last time you saw a Polaroid camera? AT LEAST a decade ago, right? Vintage enough for me! That was half a lifetime ago for some of us. (Okay, me.)

Upon seeing this, I immediately pinned it to my own wedding inspiration board on Pinterest. I adore this idea. Buy a Polaroid camera (if you can’t dig one out of your closet or attic) and leave it for guests to take a picture of themselves as they’re finding their table number. BAM! Instant awesome memories. Future memories, too. When you show these pictures to your kids in 20 years, everyone will get a good laugh out of the hair and clothing styles. Awww, bonding! 

3. This, THIS!! is the epitome of vintage. Beautiful vintage. The bold colors, the feathers, the china, the couch…it takes my breath away. This set-up probably isn’t something you’d be able or want to have for every table at your reception but it’s perfect for the head table. The candelabra and vases are items that Details offers for rental! Perfect! If you’re a Details client, you’re that much closer to making this picture perfect table setting a reality for your wedding. 

So there you have it, folks! Some super cute and original vintage wedding ideas that anyone can add to her wedding. I hope this post at least got you thinking about the crazy awesome ways you can jazz up your own special day! If you find yourself in need of more inspiration, just visit the Details’ Pinterest page where we have a board titled, “Vintage Wedding Ideas.”

Maybe you read this article and loved the ideas but aren’t planning a vintage-themed wedding. You should still check out the Details’ boards! There’s another titled, “Wedding Ideas” with all sorts of ceremony and reception pictures, ideas and DIY projects. We’re always adding new pins to our Pinterest boards so be sure to check back periodically! Don’t forget to stop by here again soon, too!

PS – If you have any ideas of your own, please share them below in the comments section! We’d love to hear your thoughts :)

-Meg

Tuesday, May 15, 2012

Bridal Party Photos!

Did you miss the fun?  Check out some of the cool vendors and activities from the First Annual Bridal Party at OuterEdge Stage in Appleton, Wisconsin!  Don't miss the next Bridal Party to be held on Saturday, November 3 from 10am until 2pm at the newly available Celebration Stage in Green Bay!

Cimmerian Tanning
Stringed Celebrations
Theresa Abler

Beautiful booth setups!

Tote bags filled with samples, discounts, and goodies!

Tasty appetizers provided by Ridgeway Country Club - consider them for your next event!


Bridal Party Bingo cards - discounts!


Artistic Cakes & Cookies provides the cake for the sample cake table!

Details staff, Nicole and Jill, working hard!

Salon di Amici enhances the beauty of our fashion show models.

Favorite vendors - LuAnn from Bridal Elegance (who provided the fashion show) and Mike with Advanced Entertainment

The ice sculpture provided by Krystal Kleer for the Details booth appears to glow!

Awaiting the Fashion Show by Bridal Elegance & Formalwear.

Hmm, great gifts and favors by KC Candies!

Bridal Elegance gown.

Brochures from Lighten Up - for your uplighting and special effects needs!


Monday, April 9, 2012

Shopping for the Gown - Common Questions


We are so appreciative of suppliers who are willing to participate in our Guest Blogger program and provide helpful tips!  This week, we welcome this post by LuAnn VanderZanden from Bridal Elegance and Formalwear in Kaukauna, Wisconsin.

Are all the wedding gowns at Bridal Elegance and Formalwear "in stock" and ready to take home?
Yes with one exception. At Bridal Elegance and Formalwear we average approximately 300 wedding gowns in stock from sizes 2 to 24. In our plus sizes only however (sizes 20 to 30), there is a section of gowns we can special order. It should be noted that even these styles could also change on a regular basis so if you see a dress you love; we recommend you buy it right away. We also have a Couture designer’s test rack where designers are testing wedding gowns that may go into production in the future.


What are the prices like at Bridal Elegance and Formalwear?
One word alone describes the wedding gown prices…AMAZING! At Bridal Elegance and Formalwear the majority of the wedding gowns are priced between $49.00 and $2,500.00 and we have a huge inventory that allows us to have a good selection at almost every price point in between. At Bridal Elegance and Formalwear our buyers not only focus on amazing and unique styling but the buyers also feel it is important that our wedding gowns be made of the highest quality materials and have a superior inner fit construction. We often hear our customers exclaim that they can really feel the difference in our gowns by just touching the fabrics. We have also found that no matter how beautiful a style, if the gown does not have a superior inner fit construction the gown will not look or hang perfectly when worn. There are also many informal destination, beach and encore wedding gowns that are priced lower in the $100.00 to $600.00 range. Most other stores as large as Bridal Elegance and Formalwear manufacturer their own gowns but Bridal Elegance and Formalwear ONLY sells independent, well known designer gowns that are normally only found in small boutique stores. The difference is that for most of the designers represented in our store Bridal Elegance and Formalwear is their largest customer. This means we buy in large volume that results in large discounts that we can pass on to our customers. When you come to Bridal Elegance and Formalwear advise your consultant as to your budget and she will work not only to find you the most beautiful gown you’ve ever seen BUT she will also work to satisfy your financial needs.

Should I bring in pictures from magazines or the Internet of gowns I like?
Yes, Yes, Yes. BUT, we strongly advise that you remember two things. First, the models used by the bridal designers average 6’ tall and wear a size 4 so unless you are this tall and wear a size 4 the gowns may not look the same on you. The first thing you should know is that many designers sell gowns that are not advertised in the magazines and are not available online. They tend to look better on “normal” sized women so BRING AN OPEN MIND. It has been our experience that when many women see themselves in a pictured gown they thought they loved they exclaim “gee, I thought it would be more exciting” and, when they try on a gown style they had not even considered before they go crazy over how good it makes them feel. You should also know that when a bride brings in a picture of a gown she likes, 70% of the time we either have that exact same dress or one that is very similar. Ours always seem to be for a lot less money too.

What if I find the gown of my dreams and I'm not ready to buy it yet? Can you hold it for me?
(I’m not ready financially or I want my mom to see it.)  Sorry, we can’t. Bridal Elegance and Formalwear usually has only one of each gown (sometimes there may be the same gown in a different size). If we held a gown we may be depriving someone from buying that saw and loved that same gown a day before you. The advantage of our style of store is that if you don’t find a gown of your dreams on your first visit you can return in two weeks and see many new and different gowns that came in since your last visit. The disadvantage is that if you find the gown of your dreams and don’t purchase it that day there is a good chance it won’t be here when you come back. That is why we suggest that before you set an appointment somewhere else, you ask yourself, “If I found the wedding gown of my dreams in my budget can I buy it today?” If the answer is no just come take a tour so you won’t fall in love with any one gown. It’s best to be ready at Bridal Elegance and Formalwear by bringing your mom or whoever you want with you so. If you’re that lucky to find the perfect dress you won’t have to leave it behind. We do have a lay-a-way plan (50% down, balance in 30 days) All major credit cards are accepted. If you are ordering your gown we request 50% down and the balance due within two weeks of the gown arriving.

How is Bridal Elegance and Formalwear different than the big chain bridal store?
There are two BIG differences. First, although both Bridal Elegance and Formalwear and the big chain both stock wedding gowns, the big chain store manufacturers its’ own dresses at their factory, i.e. all the wedding gowns “they” sell were made by them. At Bridal Elegance and Formalwear, we do not make wedding gowns. Instead, we buy from the same designers who normally sell to the small boutique stores, but, instead of buying one dress at a time off a sample like the boutiques do, at Bridal Elegance and Formalwear we buy several at a time from each designer. The second BIG difference is that the chain stores have “fixed styles for the season”. This means that for the most part their dress styles don’t change during the year. They can even give you a catalog because they are selling the same gowns over and over. At Bridal Elegance and Formalwear we don’t have “fixed styles”. Our wedding gown styles and inventory changes every week (sometimes every day). The benefit to you, our customer is that if you don’t find the gown of your dreams on your first visit, just come back in two weeks and you WILL see new and different wedding gowns in your size. The only small disadvantage to a bridal store like Bridal Elegance and Formalwear is that if you do find your perfect wedding gown and don’t purchase it, there is a good chance it won’t be here when you come back and you’ll have to start over in your quest or order the gown in without trying it on again.

Does Bridal Elegance and Formalwear do alterations "on-site"?
Yes, we have 3 seamstress personnel that do alterations for our store.

Beach Weddings, Destination Weddings, Pregnant Bride?
Not a week goes by when we don’t have several requests in this category. The advantage of being so big that we have the equivalent of three regular bridal stores worth of inventory means that we can give our beach and destination customers a truly awesome selection of wedding gowns designed to look free flowing, elegant, sexy and exciting for just this type of wedding. As for the pregnant brides, not only do we have a great selection of gowns that will accommodate this special need but we have the experienced consultants that will be able to guide you to a beautiful dress that will truly enhance your special day.
Full Figured Women and Plus Sizes? 
Bridal Elegance and Formalwear has always enjoyed a stellar reputation with plus size customers. Bridal Elegance and Formalwear offers plus sizes in three different options: 1. off the rack where we have dresses up to size 30 ready to take home immediately; 2. a special order section where we have samples in sizes 16w to 34w available to be ordered. You will need to see us at least five months before the wedding for most of these dresses. Some are available sooner. 3. Special cut dresses are also available. If your budget permits it we have several designers that will take your measurements and cut a wedding gown to your needs and specifications. Here again, we will need to see you at least five months before the wedding.

If I'm Planning on Losing Weight, When Should I Shop for and When Should I Buy My Wedding Gown?Every experienced bridal seamstress will tell you that it is easy and inexpensive to take a wedding gown down in size. 95% of all future brides will need some alterations and when they open up side seams, taking out ¼ inch or 3” costs the same. So if you lose weight it is easy and inexpensive to make your gown still fit you perfectly if it was purchased in a bigger size. The opposite, releasing a gown if it is too small because you put on weight can be far more expensive to do and often it will not look perfect. Planning a wedding can be a stressful time and it is a mistake to add more stress because you will not fit into a dress if you don’t reach your weight goal. Most brides buy their wedding gowns 9 to 18 months before their weddings so that they can facilitate all the other planning and purchases that revolve around the gown. You should do the same even if you are planning to lose weight. Buy the gown that fits your current weight and if you reach your weight goals it will be easy to alter to fit you beautifully. If you don’t, so what! You gown will still fit beautifully and remember he fell in love with you the way you are, not the way you hope to be.

Who Should I Bring with Me When I'm Wedding Gown Shopping?When shopping for a wedding gown all the experts advise not to bring too many people. Your mom and one or two other trusted individuals seem to be the perfect mix. Pick a few people who love you to come and your experience will be a lot more enjoyable and you will have a better chance of being successful in your quest. Its great to have one or two people who are close to you to give you honest opinions but bringing too many people to “poll the audience” is a recipe for disaster that may make you miss out on your perfect gown. In the end the only opinion that truly counts when picking a wedding gown is YOURS! You will be the center of attention at your wedding (no one cares how the groom looks). You want a wedding gown the will make you look awesome and feel amazing. You are the only one who will really know when you have found the gown that does this.

Should I Look for My Wedding Gown and the Bridesmaids' Gowns on the Same Day?
Don't try to do too much in one day. We suggest you not try to shop for bridesmaids and a wedding gown all in the same day. Finding that perfect gown can be harder, more time consuming, and more mentally exhausting than you think. We suggest you focus on your wedding gown first, check out our entire floor of bridesmaids before you leave and plan a separate day for the bridesmaids shopping.

Will I Actually be Able to Go Through the Racks and See for Myself ALL of the Dresses Bridal Elegance and Formalwear has to Offer?
Absolutely! Many of our customers have complained that at other bridal stores they are put into a dressing room and the store employee goes to another room to select gowns she thinks the future bride will like. At Bridal Elegance and Formalwear you will go through the racks either alone or together to review, discuss and choose the wedding gowns you will try on. You will be able to see every gown Bridal Elegance and Formalwear has to offer in every size. The gowns are all bagged and we do take special care of them. We go to extremes to make sure every wedding gown stays in perfect condition and you will appreciate that we took such extreme care of it when you find that amazing dress you fall in love with.

Should I Get a Sitter for Kids?
We strongly advise you not bring children to a bridal store. Your wedding gown choice is one of the most important you will make for your wedding. For the rest of your married life you will be looking at pictures of yourself in that special
gown. When shopping for that gown you need to be able to focus and concentrate without distractions. A bridal salon is not a fun place for kids and they will get bored very quickly and totally distract you from this important mission. A bridal salon is also NOT a safe place for children due to loose pins and other hazards. Crying babies also distract other future brides on this important day.

LuAnn VanderZanden, owner
Bridal Elegance and Formalwear





Thursday, March 29, 2012

Party! April 13th!


Experience the difference. 
Friday, April 13, 2012

Do you find yourself avoiding doing anything too risky on any Friday the 13th? Then come and enjoy a safe night out with live music, complimentary appetizers from Ridgeway Country Club, complimentary mocktails from Details, and 25+ wedding vendors all excited to learn more about how they can make your wedding day a success!  We, at Details, are very excited to announce that we will be hosting our 1st Annual Bridal Party at the beautiful OuterEdge Stage in downtown Appleton on Friday, April 13th!

The party begins at 5:00pm and runs until 9:00pm. This is a perfect opportunity for brides, grooms, their families and friends, to stop out and meet the best wedding suppliers in the area. We have hand-picked the best of the best and are thrilled to have such a strong line-up. Need a DJ? Florist? Photographer? Venue? Limo? Favor ideas and more? The Bridal Party has it all!

This will not be your ordinary bridal show. The longer you stick around that evening, the more chances you will have to win fabulous giveaways from our suppliers and hear incredible live performances from reputable musicians. Bridal Elegance and Formalwear is sponsoring the fashion show at 7:00pm, and will showcase the best trends in wedding attire of the season! All of this will be showcased by $1,000,000 worth of sound and lighting equipment built inside OuterEdge Stage.

This is an exclusive event you do not want to miss! We are only selling 200 tickets! Visit
www.twostages.com to order online, stop by OuterEdge Stage on Friday, March 30, Monday, April 2 or 9 between 9am and 5pm to purchase at a cash price of just $5! Tickets may also be purchased by phoning 920-364-0212.

See you there!

Special Thanks to: Bridal Elegance, Ridgeway Country Club, You'll Be Floored, Salon di Amici, Artistic Cakes & Cookies, Lighten Up, and Phase 2 Floral