PICTURE PERFECT:NICOLE GOSS PHOTOGRAPHY

 

Two weeks ago, I met with the most wonderful and down to earth photographer.  So, I thought I should tell you all about her.  Nicole Goss is a worker bee!  She goes the extra mile to make sure your wedding photos are exactly what you want them to be.  

Nicole believes your wedding pictures should be real and simple.  Candid shots and simple moments really capture the day.  She calls your wedding day a "dance", not a chaotic "whirlwind".  She will make sure to understand all of the important people celebrating you and any of the personal touches that tell everyone who you are. 

When I met Nicole, I was instantly taken by her warm and comfortable personality.  She exudes kindness and openness.  These are the kinds of traits you should be looking for in your photographer- and Nicole has them in spades!!  We shared biscotti and coffee and chatted about the industry, our businesses and how much we love what we do.

This happy crew is, no doubt, relaxed and thrilled to be sharing this moment.  And, that is how Nicole wants you to feel.  Your wedding pictures are your memories.  So, your photographer should enhance the day.  And, Nicole really does!!

So, please contact Nicole as you make your plans and begin choosing vendors.  She won't disappoint!  Happy Planning!!!

BRITTANY AND JOHN: A BEAUTIFUL DAY

 Brittany and John came to me from a post I did on Facebook.  They had won a wedding at The Penn Museum and were in need of guidance.  On Friday, they got married in a beautiful ceremony surrounded by family and friends.  There were some bumps in the road along the way, but Friday was spectacular!  The team of vendors did a great job!  And, as a surprise to the couple, the NBC 10 news team made a touching video congratulating them on their marriage.  They were so surprised!  Here are a few of the professional photos of the day.  3:17 Photography really captured the magic.  

Photo Courtesy of 3:17 Photography

Photo Courtesy of 3:17 Photography

Photo Courtesy of 3:17 Photography

Congratulations to an amazing couple!!  Wishing you a lifetime of happiness!

ON A BUDGET

When you are planning a wedding, money should be one of the most important things and one of the first things you figure out!  Weddings cost money.   So, before you get on Pinterest and other wedding sites and start daydreaming, figure out how much you can afford to spend on a wedding- and how much wiggle room you have.   

Backyard weddings may not be a cost effective as you think.  And, there are things that come into play that you may never think of- like portable toilets and tents.  Parking, permits, noise ordinances, etc are all things that may add to the cost.

Choose flowers that are in season.  There are ways to save on flowers if you stick to things that may be in season.  There are ways to make the simplest arrangements look amazing. 
 

Guest counts are important.  It's expensive to feed 200 people.  So, maybe you need to pare down your guest list.  Remember that some of the people you invite can't come.  So, have a B List.  Buffets may not be cheaper.  When the menu is a buffet, there has to be more food prepared than may be eaten.  A seated dinner may be more cost effective.  So, ask the question when seeking a caterer.

One of the things that couples don't understand is that "you get what you pay for".  Be very careful to research someone with extremely low pricing or who is new.  Make sure that you aren't going to get scammed, left in the lurch or disappointed.  New doesn't necessarily mean bad.  But, it could be a red flag.

DIY is wonderful.  And, if you are crafty or able to DIY some of your wedding- go for it.  But, remember you also have a job, other obligations, an entire wedding to plan.  Don't take on too much or something you are not able to do.  Also, figure out who is going to place all of those DIY items the day of your wedding.  It should NOT be you!  That day you should be enjoying the moment.  

You can plan a wedding on a budget.  And, it can be a perfect day.  It just takes a lot of planning, a little knowledge and flexibility.  If Angel of Hearts Weddings and Events can help, please reach out.  I would be happy to steer you in the right direction. Happy Planning!

REAL WEDDINGS

 

When you are planning your wedding, some things don't ever cross your mind.  But, over the last 20+ years, I have found that certain things happen that no one imagines.  And, THIS is when the brides- and in one case, the groom, in these examples are so glad they had me by their side.  For their privacy, I am not using names, nor photos of these specific weddings.  The collage in this post are merely a small selection of some of my weddings for aesthetics.  These are all true stories- some more intense than others, but all of them are unimaginable and could have been disastrous to the day.  These were all upscale weddings in beautiful venues.  These were all lovely families with real issues.  These were all situations that I was able to diffuse and fix before disaster struck.

** The wedding was 2 days away and I got a frantic call that the wedding may be in jeopardy due to a culture clash that the couple felt the situation was beyond going forward with the wedding.  I got in my car and drove to their home to talk this out.  Two families from two cultures could not agree on these two amazing people getting married.  After several hours of working through this, the wedding happened, everyone was cordial and the day was perfect.  Both cultures were represented and both families felt included.

** This was a small beach wedding at a private home.  The day was beautiful and the couple was very happy with perfect weather and a gorgeous setting.  As the party was coming to an end and everyone was gathering for a sparkler send off, a very drunk guest accosted his girlfriend and dragged her down the stairs.  She was ok, however, it caused many guests to be frightened.  I was able to diffuse the situation, have 2 other guests remove this person and we managed to keep the whole incident from the couple until after the celebration.  This could have been a very ugly situation. But, I was there and it all worked out.

** After a very tumultuous morning with an incredibly difficult bride and her family, we arrived at the venue for the ceremony and reception.  The groom and his family, a lovely family, were there, as were most of the guests.  The bride, her bridesmaids and the bride's father were late- very late.  The bride insisted, though it was a hot day, that the photographer walk the girls to a particular location for photos- again, it was hot and one of the bridesmaids had a broken foot.  When they finally arrived, the bridesmaid was in pain and the bride was hungover, verbally abusive and demanded a drink.  When the bride's father arrived, he was not dressed for a wedding and had his fishing hat on.  I felt so horrible for the groom and his family- they were mortified.  I did my best to move things along, got a tie for the dad and had him remove his hat.  I calmed the bride down and we got her some water.  The ceremony went forward and the party ensued.  The bride was very aggressive all day and resistant to most of the formalities.  I had to run interference all day to try and salvage what I could for this poor groom's family.  This was probably the most stressful day ever, but I did my best to make sure it didn't turn into a total disaster.  

** After a perfect morning, a beautiful ceremony in a historic church and the bridal party off for photos, I made my way to the venue to make sure everything was ready for the arrival of the bride and groom.  When I got there, the florist had flowers, boxes, water and trash all over the floor.  She was still putting centerpieces on tables.  In the meantime, the custom favor boxes and the napkin folds were all wrong.  I rolled up my sleeves, refolded all of the napkins and placed the favor boxes as they were to be done.  I also hustled the florist along, as the live painter had arrived and was trying to set up around the mess.  When the couple arrived, everything was perfect and they never knew of the impending disaster that was averted.

** An antique car, a careless photographer and a bride in an expensive satin gown could have been a horrible combination.  But, with my baby wipes and a hair dryer I was able to save the day.  When taking photos, the photographer had the bride up against the antique car.  After the photo, the front of the dress was streaked with grease.  To the ladies room we went.  And, no one ever knew her dress had been soiled.  

These are just a few examples of things that happen that you could never anticipate.  And, because these couples had a seasoned planner, who thinks on her feet and isn't dazzled by the "fun" of wedding planning, but who takes her job seriously, disasters can be averted.  So, please, think about the "what ifs" as you plan your big day.  You never know what could happen.  And, knowing there is someone who has your back is more important than you will ever know. Happy Planning!

HAPPY FACES/ MAGICAL MOMENTS

 

It has been almost 21 years since I began this journey.  When I started, it was my love of planning and my passion for happy brides that propelled me.  Through the years, I have been lucky to have so many amazing clients all over- from NYC to Florida, to Chicago.  While most of my clients are Philadelphia based, I have had some wonderful travels and many memorable moments with all kinds of couples.  

Times have changed, the business has changed and weddings have changed.  I have NOT changed.  My passion is the same. My commitment is the same.  My philosophy is the same.  I don't try and be a "one stop shop".  I don't rent the "stuff", do the flowers, set up the tables and clean up the trash at the end of the night.  I commit myself to YOU!  I help you find vendors to fit your budget and your vision.  I listen to you as you plan.  I do as much or as little as you need.  I am by your side from day one and I am there to carefully pack up your personal items at the end of the day.  I work for you.  I care about you.  I do what I do for YOU!!  

Angel of Hearts has no fancy website.  I have this informative and friendly blog to help you along the way.  I am not "showy", I don't parade around everywhere like a celebrity.  I am quiet and hard at work.  So, maybe I get lost in the shuffle.  So, here I am today to tell you that I am here after 20+ years, still making magic, still committed to every couple and anxiously awaiting to hear all about your wedding and how I can make the magic for you!  Happy Planning!

LET'S REVIEW

 

If you watch the Food Network, you know that when a master chef or a baker create something, the judges don't always agree on how good that dish is. Some love it, some don't. Maybe it isn't their taste in food, maybe they don't like that spice or that sauce. Taste is subjective. WELL, so is reviewing vendors. So, today, let's talk about REVIEWS. 

I am going to start by asking you a question. If you had a business and worked really hard at that business, made your living, paid your bills, fed your family with that business. how would you feel if someone, not only disrespected your business in a review, but actively tried to ruin you- and attacked your person besides?  It would make you feel pretty awful, I would guess.  

Weddings are very personal.  they are costly, stressful and you want everything to be perfect.  BUT, THINGS HAPPEN! Maybe you don't have the budget for the Pinterest board you saw.  Maybe the flowers you love are not in season. Maybe the photographer is late, because there was a major accident on their way.  At the end of the day, you are married, the vendor team YOU chose did their job and life goes on. If something didn't go just so, do you really think you should blame your vendors?  

Sometimes personalities don't connect.  That's OK. Not every vendor fits every couple.  Sometimes you don't listen to what the vendor is telling you or you don't read the contract or you hear what you want to hear.  You must be flexible, communicate with your vendors.  SOMETIMES you just had a vision that was unrealistic!  Figure out what your budget is at the beginning and find vendors who fit that budget. Look, there are great vendors, good vendors, mediocre vendors- AND, there are some REALLY BAD vendors.  After 20 years in this industry, I know that. And, as someone who advises couples on vendors, I would not recommend someone I know to be CONSISTENTLY bad.  BUT, I WOULD NOT TRASH ANYONE on the internet.  

Everyone has a bad day.  Maybe your DJ lost their mother recently. Maybe the caterer had staff that didn't show up for work. Maybe the venue had a flood in the ladies room that morning. However, they show up. they do their job. They work past the trouble.  And, they do their best to give you what you paid for. 

RED FLAG:  If someone has a great rating on a wedding website and you read review after review that raves about the vendor. Then, you read some absurd NEGATIVE review that completely destroys someone's reputation- STOP!  Think about it!!  Is it possible for so many couples to be wrong and this ONE or TWO be right?!!  PLEASE!  use your common sense.  

Finally, instead of taking the word of other brides- good or bad, reach out to a vendor. Explain that you read something about them- there are 2 sides to every story.  Ask other vendors who have worked with that vendor- find out what they think. Ask your venue if they have worked with someone and what their recommendation would be.

As with the Food Network, TASTE is subjective.  So, don't destroy someone because you don't like the spices!!  Walk away and find something good to say- maybe you liked the "sauce". And, ask yourself, would I want someone to slander me on the internet?  My guess is, your answer would be NO!  Be kind. And, as my mother used to say- "if you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all".  

Happy Planning!

DARIANNA BRIDAL AND TUXEDO

It was my pleasure, yesterday, to visit Darianna Bridal and Tuxedo in Warrington, Pa.  And, the only thing more fun than seeing such a beautiful store, was meeting the owners, Franco and Wendy, and their happy staff. If you are searching for THE DRESS, PLEASE visit this salon!!   

You can feel the warmth and caring as soon as you walk in the door- including the dress in the window, bearing the names of the brides that bought a dress here.  You are greeted with a friendly HELLO.  And, the store owners could not be more accommodating! Franco and Wendy are just lovely, real, authentic people, who pride themselves on the way they interact with their brides and the community.

Visually, this is an inviting place to walk into.  The huge window that lets in so much natural light, the dark hardwood floors, adorned with beautiful oriental rugs, the ethereal look of the gorgeous gowns hanging on the wall and the most incredible and private bridal suite I have ever seen!  It just makes you feel like you have been wrapped in a blanket and loved!!  The bridal suite is off to the side and surrounded by a wall, open to the gowns on two sides. There is a huge, ornate mirror and a delightful, cushioned bench for your entourage. There are belts and sleeves to experiment with while you decide which gown you MUST have.  You WILL feel like a princess when you try on gowns in this space.

There is a beautiful selection of veils and accessories.  There are dresses for mom and some bridesmaids. AND, on the other side of the center floor, there are suits and tuxedos for the men in the wedding. 

I have to say, I have visited a lot of bridal salons in my career, and have worked in several.  This salon is the perfect place to feel embraced, cared about, listened to and appreciated!   I am so happy for the opportunity to share this salon with my readers- and my brides! You really should make an appointment to go see them! You can call, text, schedule on their website or message on Facebook. 

Darianna Bridal and Tuxedo- 215-491-8500

LE MERIDIEN: PERFECTLY SUITED FOR NOW- AND LATER

 Right in the center of Philadelphia, with a view of City Hall, in a historic building, is Le Meridien Hotel.  With beautifully appointed guest rooms, a gorgeous library for an intimate ceremony and several options to party the night away, your wedding will be perfect in every way.  And, right now, planning an intimate occasion for the most dear to you or an elopement for just you two, there is no better time to plan your wedding at Le Meridien.

Last week, I visited Lauren Pasquini and we chatted about how the hotel has pivoted to accommodate the things that have changed in this last year. And, how dedicated they are to making sure that with smaller weddings AND smaller budgets, couples can still have a magical wedding.  Here are some of the things that Le Meridien is doing for couples right now:

Book your wedding in 2021 FOR 2021 and receive: 

 ** Complimentary ceremony ( $1000 value)

** Complimentary Tier 2 or 3 entree at a Tier 1 price ($20 per person value)

** Complimentary 1 Hour After Party food display ($20 per person value)

Book your wedding in 2021 FOR 2022 and beyond with under 50 guests and receive ONE of the above options.

Book your wedding in 2021 FOR 2022 or beyond with over 50 guests and choose two of the above options.

The photos here are from one of my weddings at Le Meridien.  And, I must say, it was perfection- all day!  Lauren and her team will make sure that nothing is left to chance and that every moment is unforgettable.  Even in these strange days, weddings should always be special and ALWAYS be memorable.  Le Meridien will see to that. So, give Lauren a call to book your special day.  And, let me know how I can help!  Because every wedding, big or small, needs a planner to keep you sane and stress free.

Stay tuned for more info about a special evening coming soon at Le Meridien in April.  Details to come.

Lauren Pasquini- 215-422-8221

A TIMELY WEDDING

These are strange times for planning a wedding.   Many couples are just having a private ceremony and planning a celebration for later with family and friends.   And, some couples are opting for a small gathering with their favorite people.  How would you like to be able to bring your wedding to your home for an elegant evening without lifting a finger?  Let me tell you how.

We will hire a chef to plan a menu and prepare a beautiful meal.  We can use your china and linens or we can bring them in.  Decorating is easy.  Some beautifully placed flowers and some candles create a mood.  Ensconce your home in romance, with a spot for a ceremony and an intimate dinner for 2 to 20 people.  A photographer to take some photos of your magical evening.  And, VOILA!  

Creating memories and sharing a special moment with those closest to you can be totally stress free and just as wonderful as a big event.  And, right now, what could be better?!  Contact me for details and lets get started planning your intimate wedding at home.  Contact: wendyangell@gmail.com or 267-500-4328.

 

BUT, I DON'T NEED A PLANNER

Just look at these two happy people!!  Relaxed, fresh and having a great time.  And, why are they so relaxed?  Because they HIRED A PLANNER!  

Why is hiring a planner so important?  And, why should you hire one?  Because, I know you are thinking you don't need one.  Your mom will help. Your bridesmaids will help.  Your cousin, who isn't in the wedding will help.  Or, the best one- the venue has an on site planner.  

So, let's explore these options.  Your mother already has a job that day- she is the Mother of the Bride.  She should never be asked to handle the day of.  Your mom should be by your side, enjoying your happiness, helping you get ready, sipping champagne with you.  She should also be relaxed, happy and fresh.

Your bridesmaids are just that- your bridesmaids.  Giggling and chatting while having hair and make up done.  Sharing your joy.  Being there to share in this special day.  They will be needed for photos, for keeping you from being too nervous, for walking down the aisle and standing by your side when you say I Do.  They should be dancing, laughing and enjoying this blessed day.  

I know, you wanted your cousin to feel included because you already had too many bridesmaids.  So, let her hand out the programs.  Have her make a special toast.  Maybe she can create a photo book for your guest book.   I'm sure she has a talent that you can recognize.  Let her be a guest and enjoy your day with you.

AND- that on site planner-  they work for the venue!!  So. if there is a problem before the wedding, they don't help.  If the florist doesn't show up or is late, NOT their job to follow up.  If the venue closes before the wedding- oops!  There goes the venue AND the "planner"!   Somehow, I don't think you want to have to face that scenario alone!  On site coordinators are only there for the day.  They work for the venue.  They may or may not know how to do your bustle.  They may have some thread to fix a button- but, they sure don't have an emergency kit to handle any emergency.  They haven't worked with your vendors for the last 6 months to a year to help you navigate all the ins and outs of a wedding day.  They don't really know you- because they haven't invested the time to get to know you.  And, some of them are hard to find on the big day.

So, what to do?!  A seasoned wedding planner will be there for whatever happens from beginning to end of the planning.  A planner will help you navigate the journey to the altar.  A planner will recommend vendors that are reliable, professional and do a great job.  A planner will know how to do a bustle, have an emergency kit, be at the venue before you to make sure everything is how you envisioned it, interact with all of the vendors before the wedding, have all the contact numbers, names and other info needed to keep the day moving.  AND, THIS PLANNER will know how to get car grease off of a satin gown, how to totally reinvent a wedding in two weeks if the venue shuts down, can alter a dress on site if needed, can make a bouquet, can be a counselor, a referee and a mentor from the moment you say Yes until you say Good Night to the last guest.  

Don't cheat yourself.  Don't play Russian roulette with your wedding day.  And, PLEASE, don't let an amateur or a friend be responsible for such an important day.  Everybody has a purpose in your wedding day.  Mine is to make sure there are no problems, no stress and that the magic happens.  My job is to make sure YOU are as happy as these two were on their wedding day!!  

JOSH GOODMAN PRODUCTIONS

I have worked with lots of photographers!  Most of them are amazing and most of them are very easy to work with.  I have my favorites- for different reasons.  And, not every photographer is right for every couple, no matter how great their talent.  That's why I recommend different photographers depending on the couple.  One thing I have learned over the years, you MUST connect on a personal level with the person taking your wedding photos.  So, today, I want to introduce you to someone who you can't help but connect with!!  This guy lives the words he says.  And, he takes great photos.  Josh Goodman Productions does photography and videography- well!!  

I met Josh through Instagram and Facebook.  I just fell over a photograph one day and I was hooked.  In getting to know him, I found that he is not only a great photographer, he is an even greater human being.  His philosophy completely gels with mine.  He runs his business the way I run mine.  And, he has the cutest little girl in the world!!  

Josh does engagements and weddings.  This is great, because you can get to know him during your engagement shoot, so you will have time to really get a feel for who he is, and vice versa.  Josh lives by his grandfather's words- "get the details right".  And, Josh does that.  


When the big day comes, Josh will be ready to capture every nuance of the day.  You can opt for photography and video- which is is something I always recommend.  Josh has your covered.  You can decide how much time you need, but if things get behind, Josh won't leave you hanging.  He will get every important moment, with no hidden fees at the end.  You can choose from 6 hours to all day, which all include a complimentary engagement shoot.  

Josh Goodman is just that, a Good Man.  He is an artist who produces quality work and a phenomenal human being.  Josh is affordable, creative and waiting to hear from you.  So, contact him while he still has dates available. 

Thanks, Josh for sharing your work with me and for being so eager to make memories that last a lifetime.

BLENDING CULTURES

One of the things I have always enjoyed about planning weddings is the opportunity to witness different cultures celebrating a marriage.  Blending those cultures is very commonplace, as couples are not always from the same part of the world, the same religion, the same race.  When you are planning your wedding, with a partner of a different culture, it is important to respect and include pieces of both cultures.  Whether incorporating traditions, ceremonies or foods from each, make sure you are not leaving out the things that make your marriage unique and special.  I have done lots of mulitcultural weddings over the years.  Here are three that really stand out as being all inclusive and respectful of both cultures.

Mike and Mimi wanted both families to feel special on their wedding day.  Mike is from a big Irish Catholic family and Mimi is Chinese.  Her family was also Catholic, so the ceremony was in a beautiful Gothic church in the Fairmount section of Philadelphia.  They decided to incorporate Mimi's Chinese heritage in the food and also with a tea ceremony with her parents.  Mimi wore a beautiful modern wedding gown for the ceremony, then they both donned traditional Chinese outfits for the reception.  There was a modified Chinese wedding banquet for dinner, which was very interesting to plan, as I learned what all the symbolism of each dish was.  And, we had Chef Joe Poon manning the wok- entertaining for the guests.  Everyone had a great time and both families felt included in the day.

Phi and Nhi are both Vietnamese. But, as the families came, one from North Viet Nam and one from south Viet Nam, this made for a challenging and very long day.  It also created some personal challenges for the couple, as both were from the same country, but from very different cultures within that country.   We started the day early and first headed to Phi's family home, where there was a traditional wedding ceremony.  The dining room was adorned with tributes to the ancestors and the boys lined up outside with gifts for the bride and her family.  Then it was off to a Catholic mass, said in Vietnamese.  And, finally to the groom's parent's home to officially welcome the bride into the family.  After all of the ceremony, it was off to a full on Chinese Wedding Banquet for 500 guests.  My biggest challenge of the day- making sure that only the invited guests were allowed to enter.  In this culture, invited guests often invite their own guests to accompany them.  I had a detailed list of who could and could not be ushered into the banquet.  At the end of the day, this was a very happy union.

Joy and Bob were joining the Thai and Korean cultures.  Their wedding ceremony had components of both cultures.  But, their wedding was a very modern affair.  Though many of Bob's female relatives wore traditional Korean garb, the bride and groom opted for a thoroughly modern take on their attire.  Even with this, the respect for the union of two cultures played an important part in the day.

There is no road map for blending cultures on your wedding day, or taking a tradition from your ancestors to make a statement about who you are and where you came from.  The important thing is to discuss it, know what each of you cares about and how you can celebrate the two families coming together.  I've learned plenty over the years about culutral components to a wedding and the traditions that go along with that.  As I said when I started this post, its one of the best things about this job.

BRIDAL SHOWERS

Finding the right venue for the bridal shower can be more stressful than finding the venue for the wedding.  Do you rent a private dining room in a restaurant?  Find a venue with ambiance and pay a rental fee, in addition to the price per person?  How many guests can the venue accomodate?  Is there parking?  All of these questions come up in the mix.  So, here are a few tips to help you along the way.

  Most restaurants can only hold about 50 people.  So, if you are inviting a large group, look for a larger venue.  

Where are the guests coming from?  Find a nice midpoint that is convenient for everyone.  

A private venue may charge a rental fee.  Remeber to add that into the total cost.  And, make sure to ask if there is an on site caterer or if you have to find your own.  

What is included in the price per person?  Are tables, chairs, linens, etc included?  How about tax and gratuity?  Read the contract before you decide.  No one likes hidden costs.  

And, when decorating, think of ways to decorate without using flowers.  With "green events" trending, there are lots of ways to decorate with other things.  

And, finally, the value in what you are getting should always come first.  Your dream location may be on the pricier side.  But, in the long run, the value of what is included and the convenience, quality and ambience may be worth it.  Questions?  Contact me for more information or to get some help finding your venue for your favorite bride!

NOT A FLOWER GIRL

Flowers are a huge part of most weddings.  But, what if you don't like flowers?  What if you are allergic to flowers?  Or, what if you are looking for a more affordable option to flowers?  I have you covered!

Candles, candles and more candles are a great way to create a mood and give a shimmering magic to your wedding.  They can also be purchased in bulk to save money.  A combination of pillars and votives make for a beautiful look.

Lanterns are another way to decorate and create an ambiance.  You can use candles or LED twinkle lights to give off light.  These are also a wonderful alternative to bouquets.  Fill the lanterns with fairy lights and watch the glow as your bridesmaids walk down the aisle.

Old books, antique jars, family heirlooms can be used to create amazing centerpieces without using one flower!  Hoops made of brass or even covered embroidery hoops adorned with green make a dramatic statement.  Orchids suspended in tall cylinders of water are a very dramatic touch to your tables.  Incorporate them with other vintage things, books or candles.  No sneezing here!

Fruit in tall cylinders with floating candles give color to your tables and create a natural effect.  And, they are environmentally responsible.  Lemons, apples, cranberries- what's your favorite.  Artichokes, eggplant, and other vegetables are beautiful in a table garland.  One of my brides was a chef and wanted the food element in her table decor.  Vegetables added stunning colors and a "green" vibe to her centerpieces.  

Hanging twinkle lights, draping with uplighting, greens, such as eucalyptus woven into garlands- all things lovely and romantic.  Silk flowers are also an option.  Or, wooden flowers- you will never know that they are not real!  Have your bridesmaids carry fans, decorated hoops, or other natural choices instead of flowers.  

You don't have to have flowers to make your wedding unforgettable.  Use your imagination.  There are lots of other options.  

THE WEEK IN VISIONS

Its Friday and I want to be sure you didn't miss any of my vision boards this week.  So, here they are.  Questions?  Ready for my to help you with yours?  Contact me!  

Late Fall 

Winter in Red and Pink

Natural Winter Beauty

Regal Emerald and Gold

Pretty in Pink and Gold

Majestic Purple and Gold

PHOTO SHOP

Photo: Sarah DiCicco

Over the years I have worked with lots of photographers.  Most of them are amazing!  They all have their own style.  However, when you are searching for the photographer for your wedding, you need to find one that matches your style.  Its important to CONNECT with your photographer.  If you aren't in sync, you will not be happy with your wedding pictures.  And, you can't do them over.  The other piece of advice would be, DO NOT GO CHEAP!  There are great photographers who are very affordable.  And, you can customize your package to suit your budget.  Remember, this is the memory of your wedding day.  

Here are some tips for finding the perfect photographer.  Take a look at the photogrpaher's work.  does it speak to you?  Does that photographer have a style that you like?  Meet more than one photographer. 

 Set up an engagement shoot.  The way you and that photographer interact will tell you whether its a good choice.  I worked with a couple a few years ago who had hired a photographer and done an engagement shoot.  Afterward, the bride called me to say that she didn't like the photographer's personality.  She couldn't smile.  And, she hated the pictures from the shoot.  I offered other choices, but because they had given a deposit, they stuck it out with the original photographer.  When the proofs came from the wedding, the bride was not happy.  So,don't hire someone that doesn't make you comfortable.  No matter how great or how many referrals, there IS a right photographer for you.

Find out what is included with the price.  Many photographers work with a second shooter- which means both you and the groom will get those "Getting Ready" photos.  And, not a moment will be lost, because there are 4 eyes on your wedding all day.  How many photos do you get included?  Is an album included?  Most of the time, NO.  So, be prepared to pay for a wedding album.  Do you get all of the photos on a disc?  Talk to the photogrpaher before you sign a contract.  Be very clear what is included.

Find out if the photographer also does video.  Many photographers do offer it.  And, it is something you want to include in your budget.  Hiring a videographer is not a luxury.  When you look back on your wedding, don't you want to hear those vows again, listen to the song you danced to while watching it?  Remember, this is a once in a lifetime and will never be repeated.  So, you want every moment to be documented.   

The most important thing to remember when deciding on your photography- and videography is that this is the memories.  These pictures, this video is what you will look back on for years to come.  So, choose wisely.  And, feel free to contcact me for advice or referrals.  Happy Planning!

Photo: Kelli Wilke

YOUR FOREVER BEGINS HERE

I am so excited to share this contest with you today!!  Constellation Culinary Group and Curtis Atrium have announced a most special contest.  The History of Us is a wonderful way for you to share your love story and enter to win a dream wedding.  The Curtis Atrium is an historic landmark and inspiring venue for your Happily Ever After.  And, Constellation Culinary Group is among the finest in the city.  Its a perfect combination for your big day. 

So, lets talk about the contest.  The History of Us, the story of your love and what makes you and your partner unique. That is what Constellation Culinary wants to know.  And, this is how you enter.  Create a Pinterest board with memories, favorite moments, songs, events, all of your adventures.  Then send your board to Constellation.  Share your board with Instagram using the hashtag- #hitchedweddingcontest.  Don't be shy!!  Share as much as you like.  The more interesting and unique your board, the better.  This will be so much fun.  Sharing your love story, remembering all of the things that make you, YOU!  

The contest runs through January 15, 2020.  The winner will be announced on the Curtis Atrium Facebook and Instagram pages.  Winning couple gets a beautiful wedding at the Curtis Atrium with delicious and artistically presented food by Constellation.  This is how to enter- 

1. Show the history of you and your fiancé using Pinterest. Create a new board and title it “The History of Us.” Then upload your favorite memories (places, songs, stories, etc.) Paint a digital picture of the history of your love. Make sure the link is set to public.
2. Email the link to your board to historyofUS@constellationculinary.com
3. Along with your email, be sure to include:
   a. First and last names of both of you
   b. When you got engaged
   c. What city/ town you live in
4. (Optional) Share a post about your board on your Instagram page using the hashtag #hitchedcontest, and tagging @byconstellation and @thecurtisatrium
5. Leave your board up through the end of the contest on January 15th. One lucky couple will win an expense paid wedding at The Curtis Atrium, which includes:
   • Venue Rental
   • Constellation Food and Beverage Package (Maximum value of $50,000/ Minimum 100 guests, Maximum 200 guests)

Here is the link to the rules.

Consider visting Curtis Atrium and meet with Contellation.  Because, even if you don't win, you will want to say your I Do's in this beautiful setting. Have Fun and Good Luck!!!