BE A 2020 BRIDE

Are you planning a 2020 wedding?  I'm here to tell you there are so many new trends- from color to flower choices to venues.  You can be whatever kind of bride you have always dreamed you would be.  So, just wanted to pop in today to give you some inspiration.

Color is a very personal thing.  From dreamy pastels to rich jewel tones and from bright yellows to cool blues and pale greens, you can imagine your wedding in any combination or just choose one color and use a range of shades of that color.  Or, just be bold and GO WHITE!  

Fairy tale settings, grand ballrooms and unique urban locations are all options for your "I Do's".  Organic decor, green invitations, charitable donations as favors, yummy and innovative food from all kinds of caterers and your vision all go into the process.  Its your day!  There are endless possibilities.  Just close your eyes and dream the dream.  And, by the way, contact me!  I will help you navigate the journey.  It will be so much fun!! 

MARY ANN AND OMAR: A BEAUTIFUL DAY

The view from the suite at the Hotel Monaco Philadelphia was spectacular!  As Mary Ann was pampered in preparation for her big day, she could see the turning leaves and Independence Park out the window.    A lovely table of delicious pastries, fresh fruit juice and pitchers of water with strawberries floating in them were laid out by the hotel to keep the bride fed.  It was nice to see how calm Mary Ann was as she was fussed over by her hairdresser and Kelly Quinlan of Face the Occasion.   After all she had been through, the last thing I wanted was for her to feel the least bit nervous or stressed.      

By the time the photographer got there, Mary Ann was ready to go.  I was touched by the way that she fussed over her mother and actually took the time to dress her, while Sarah Miller and Patience shot photos of the dress and the flowers and the blue shoes.  I also thought it was so sweet how Mary Ann had a brooch pinned to her bouquet with a photo of her dad. When it was time, I got the bride into her gown and sent her off to the hotel roof for

some time alone before the ceremony.  

 

 Meanwhile, I went to check on the officiant and the Girard Room, where the reception would be held.   Mary Ann had all her own touches to add to the table.  Being an intimate party for just the family, there was one long table.   Gold charger plates and lots of votives made for a glimmering table, with flowers by Cheryl Ann Floral Design.  All the flowers were white with lots of deep green touches.   It made for a spectacular table.   The cake, from Bredenbeck's was so pretty.  I added the fresh flowers to it in addition to setting up the table and the gift table.  

 The ceremony took place on the roof under a perfectly blue sky.   Cocktail hour was immediately following in the Mist Pavilion.  While the guests gathered to share the day, the couple made their way to Independence Park for photos.   And, then it was off to the Girard Room for a lovely dinner and dancing to the sounds of Sound Sensation and DJ Mike Ellis.   

 DJ Mike even got out on the floor and got the party moving!   It was a great day and a beautiful time had by all. 

 As this wedding almost didn't happen, due to a string of disasters 3 weeks before, I must thank Michael Mitloff of the Hotel Monaco and ALL of the staff of the hotel for their outstanding efforts, cooperation and service in order to assist me in making this couple's wedding more than they ever dreamed.   I could not have done this without Michael, whom I called almost every day.  He was tireless in making every detail possible.   I also want to mention Erik Travers, whose attention to detail with the presentation of the meal and constant concern made for a flawless reception and to the chef, Guillermo Tellez, whose food is outstanding!   And, finally, to Nick Gregory, the general manager, who kept in contact with me and made sure nothing went awry.   This was truly one of my biggest triumphs!   Everything went wrong for this adorable bride and yet, her day turned into a magical experience that she could not have imagined.   

I got this from Mary Ann yesterday.   And, they are planning a party early next year for all the people they did not have at the wedding.  So, I will be working with them again. 

  'Thank you for everything. We really can't say enough about how great you were through this entire journey. You are absolutely wonderful.  This was better than we ever imagined and I now believe that things happen for a reason."

LITTLE WOMAN DESIGN

There's a new invitation design team in town and they are destined to become stars! If you are a bride looking for something completely unique and fun, you need to visit Little Woman Design! Francesca Staffieri and Michael Magro have hit the scene like gangbusters and it won't take long for them to become a "must have" for couples in Philadelphia and beyond.

Started just last winter with their own wedding, Little Woman Design is quickly becoming a force to be reckoned with.

This little dynamo of a company is prepared to give you all the visual components of your wedding day, from Save The Dates- like this one here, to your invitations, programs, napkins, menus, banners and even the GOBO stencil for the dance floor lighting. Just give them the theme, color palette and your vision and their incredible imagination will design all the elements to make that vision come to life.

So, where can you find this little gem? Well, I will tell you! You can visit them at Bridal Expos, on line or at Soiree Philadelphia, in Old City. You can even set up a video conference with them. Wherever you meet them, you will be thrilled with the result! So, get going!! They are waiting to make your stationery stand apart from the ordinary. And, don't forget to visit their BLOG to see what is new and exciting for this Little Woman!!!































Photos Courtesy of BG Productions

THEY CALL IT WITCHCRAFT

Are you an edgy bride with a hint of mystery? Then, you will love these witchcraft- inspired wedding gowns from Vera Wang. Paired with dramatic bouquets, you can make a stunning statement on your wedding day.

One of the trends for 2012 is the influence of the two movies retelling the story of Snow White. A rustic and woodsy design, shown here in these natural florals, combining herbs, natural elements and decadent flowers such as dahlias and black magic and abracadabra roses, will surely put a spell on your groom and your guests. Pair these smashing details with a forest of trees for a canopy and long tables with ambient lighting and lacy linens in a country estate and... PRESTO! You have a magical wedding! Now, live Happily Ever After!!

Bouquets courtesy of Martha Stewart Weddings and The Knot

STORYBOOK WEDDINGS

Today I have an exciting new product to tell you about! Yesterday, as I was scoping out new ideas and responding to my LinkedIn requests, I happened on this new little company and I just had to share. So, I made a phone call and got the "story" from the ingenious founder of The Wedding Story Writer. This concept is the brainchild of Michelle McMurray. Michelle, a writer and lover of weddings, gave her own mother the gift of a diary of her wedding day. That gesture led to the birth of her concept- and her business. Now, Michelle and her team of writers, scattered all over the United States and available for destination weddings, is ready to chronicle your wedding day.


Who would not want a beautiful book with the story of such a milestone, to "have and to hold"? A storybook to be read to your children. An addition to your wedding video, or an affordable alternative to a videographer. If you are looking for a unique way to remember your day forever, this is it!


Speaking to Michelle, a bubbly and vibrant lady with a smile that shines through the phone, I asked her about her business and we chatted about how and why she came to this business. She explained to me the process and some funny anecdotes about her experiences. Guests are curious and the groomsmen are pretty disinterested in the storytelling. But, brides love the idea and the finished product, a beautiful book with a special story, full of details that many brides miss on their wedding day. As a spectator, Michelle can stand back and watch, taste and listen to the day. As a "silent" vendor, she can delve into the nuances of the day, explain the sights and sounds of how the day unfolds.
Michelle will arrive while you are preparing for your wedding. She will sit and listen to thoughts, your chats with the girls, the funny and touching moments between you and your mom. Taking notes and observing all that surrounds your day. From the weather, to the visuals of the room, to the walk down the aisle and the taste of the cake, Michelle will write down every detail of your day. Then, like all great storytellers, she will weave all those notes and observances into a storybook that you can read and re- read for years to come.

I love this idea. First of all, unlike photos and videos, it brings to life the smells, the quiet conversations, the essence of your day. Things that a camera can't capture- the taste of the cake melting in your mouth, the whispered chatter of guests coming into the ceremony, a few words from a special guest about you. It is a beautiful way to remember your wedding and Michelle makes it fun and unobtrusive as she writes furiously all day in the background. So, if you are looking for something new to bring to your wedding, give Michelle a call. This is a fabulous new trend in the making!

INSPIRED BY MARDI GRAS

Just a quick inspiration for Mardi Gras. Taking the color palette of one of my fall brides and Mardi Gras, with its feathers and a bit of flair, I have created this board for a bold and beautiful wedding. It doesn't have to be February to use the colors and feathers of Mardi Gras. Rich jewel tones and Masquerade themes can be used throughout the year. And, finding inspiration is easy! I found more images than I could use. So, here is to Mardi Gras and Katie. Find your inspiration and enjoy! P.S.- Etsy is a great place for all things inspired! And, if you haven't discovered Pinterest- Get There!!
Credits:
Artisan Bake Shop- cake
BHLDN- shoes and wedding gown
Dessy- bridesmaid dress
Lazaro- feather wedding gown
My Dream Wedding- shoe clip
Powder Blue Bijoux- hair clip
Sharp Scissors- tutu
Victoria Westbury- bridesmaid dress with purple sash
Bridal Bijou- center mask
Frosted Petticoat- chocolate mask

BE MY VALENTINE

Tomorrow is a day for hearts, flowers and fancy chocolates. So, what better day to dream about a Valentine wedding. Of course, Pinterest is abundant with images of Valentines and all things red and pink. And, in my files, I have some images of those reds and pinks too. Here is an inspiration for a romantic and nostalgic Valentine wedding. Happy Valentine's Day from Bridal Affairs!

Red gown from Carolina Herrera, dainty white nymphs from Papilio, heart lolipops from Frosted Petticoat on Etsy, raspberry chocolate martini by Martha Stewart and red heart cake from Sprinklebakes, strawberry wedding cake photograph from Sarah DeShaw via The Wedding Chicks.

CHANTILLY FLORAL WELCOMES SPRING

Chantilly Floral Boutique has its first 2012 Bridal Forum coming up and I want to let you all know! News of these forums is always at the top of the list of "most read" posts here at Bridal Affairs. So, I want to share with you all the information about the latest news. The Bridal Forum, A Celebration of Spring, will be held at the Lansdale location on Wednesday, January 11 from 6PM- 8PM. Charles and his wonderful staff have some special surprises in store. So, come with you ideas and your questions and be ready to be wowed by these lovely designs. There is always light fare and a glass of wine waiting for you. And, plenty of beautiful options to help you decide on your wedding flowers. And, I will be there to assist anyone who wants to know more about planning services. You don't need an appointment, so there is no excuse not to come and enjoy the beauty of spring and the magnificent floral for weddings, by Chantilly Floral Boutique. These are just a few of the designs that Chantilly has created for some of my brides. Hope to see you there!

Chantilly Floral Boutique
29 W Main Street
Lansdale, Pa
215- 855-9258

HAVE AN INSPIRED 4TH OF JULY

As we pack up our bathing suits for the beach and head off to fireworks, BBQ's and sunscreen, take along this inspiration for a red, white and blue wedding without any stars and stripes! Have a star spangled 4th of July!!
Photo Credits: Wedding shots by Nine Photos

ROYAL BLUE

The royal wedding is a week away and the excitement is mounting. Are you planning your own "royal" wedding and need some inspiration? Well, I have some right here. Imagine a deep blue organza table linen adorned with silver or gold accents. This napkin ring, exclusive to Wildflower Linens will finish the look of the table with a royal flair. A gown fit for a princess and elegant bridesmaid dresses will surely finish the look of your royal wedding. While Kate and William have Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace, you can still have your own royal feel at your wedding right here. The possibilities are endless. I can help you fulfill any wedding dream. Let's talk about your vision and how it can become your own fairy tale wedding.

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THE GARDEN GATE

Through the gate and into the enchanted garden of your wedding we go. What lies beyond the gate is the dream you have of flowering trees, a stone path and your groom at the end of it. So, here we go into the enchanted and exotic land of peacocks and willows and brilliant shades of nature- to your happily ever after.

We begin our journey with beautifully crafted invitations available on Etsy. These handcrafted and personalized invitations will set the stage for your fantasy come true. You can also add the beautiful ceremony programs, each tied with a satin bow and a real peacock feather. The linens that will adorn your table are lush and carry the peacock name. Perhaps, you will dine under a canopy of moss orchids. And, the light from lanterns hanging in the trees as the sun sets on your enchanted evening, and the guests dance the night away with the fairies flickering within. .

Imagine yourself entering this magical garden in a pale green gown by Vera Wang, with the breeze billowing the soft layers of tulle as you go. Your bouquet, not flowers, but a collection of brooches that were given to you by family and friends- and will never die. The groom and his groomsmen will wear peacock feathers on their lapels. A gift, from our beloved, a locket carried by two birds with a message only for you inside. When the evening is through and the guests have gone and you and your love return through that garden gate, you will have an enchanted memory of the day you became one. And, the knowledge that you and I made the dream a reality.






Follow me through, yet another garden gate.
This one an arbor in the country. The walk down the brick path to the waiting crowd of family and friends can't see you as you make your way in your wisp of a gown. The colors or early summer, the smell of the peonies and the roses that you carry. When you arrive by the side of your love, he will be entranced by your similarity to the lovely flowers in the garden that surrounds you.
After you say "I Do", you will enter the clearing and the terrace to enjoy an evening of dancing and wonderful food. Again, the smell of the peonies- big, beautiful vases full of them and the David Austin roses that open just like the peony, but have the scent of an English rose. The table linens with the dainty embroidered rose and the soft organza fabric. Your cake, a garden unto itself with butterflies flitting about. Surrounding you are things that remind you of a day long ago, when tea parties and big hats and ladies stitching embroidery while the men played croquet. Pink lemonade and antique birdcages and hand tatted napkins. A grand affair in amongst the roses. Chandeliers hanging from the branches to give light to the evening. All the wonder of the day, brought to life by your dream and my knowledge. A team made in heaven, which is where you will find yourself when you depart down that brick path and through the arbor, hand in hand with your new husband.

So, before you walk through your garden gate into your enchanted wedding, lets talk about your vision and how I can help you make it a dream come true.



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A PASSION FOR PURPLE

Purple majesty! Is this deep, delicious palette what you yearn for on your wedding day? If so, I will assist you in making it your reality. Your flowers can look like an English garden or as exotic as these calla lilies. Perhaps you want to make a statement by using feathers and ribbon for the boutonnieres. Or, a brooch bouquet-quite the rage right now. Your tables will be spectacular in shades of purple with a billowing skirt on the backs of your chairs. Table linens don't have to be flat. This one creates a textured look with a flair. And, your dress- it doesn't have to be white. Yes- that is one of my brides walking down the street in her purple wedding gown.
If purple is your passion, then lets make it happen. Being a unique and regal bride can be easy with my help and a little imagination.













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OLD FASHIONED ROMANCE

Romance is in the air along with the budding flowers and trees. So, what better time than some inspiration for a romantic wedding with an old fashioned flair. From flowers to dresses, I can help you design a wedding from a bygone era. Jane Austen, the Brontes', your great- grandmother's wedding photos- whatever inspires you we can turn into your wedding dream.
Let's begin with pinks and golds, lace and pearls. Muted colors and dreamy concoctions to adorn you, your maids and your tables. Linens with rich color and fine embroidery, chairs with a luscious cover- like gossamer. Bouquets that carry us back to a time when your flowers were plucked from the garden on the morning of your wedding and wrapped in a fine doily or piece of heirloom fabric. A small token
of your true Love's devotion, such as this lovely locket.
Let's talk about the dress. An English garden with a basket of fresh flowers. A grand ballgown, befitting a princess of the royal court. An heirloom that your mother retrieves from the attic, wrapped in tissue- or something new, made to look like it came from another time. Picture your wedding rings on this satin pillow tied to ribbons attached to an antique brooch that belonged to your ancestors- or his. A bracelet that you found at a flea market or Wedzu or Etsy. Your bouquets made from broochs, not flowers.























Vintage gowns, jewelry and floral arrangements can be found in the most unexpected places. In my daily travels through the many blogs I read, through research for a client or from my own passion for all things romantic and frilly, we can create this dreamlike picture just for you. If this ethereal and rich collection of beautiful things is what you see when you dream of your special day, let me help you make it a dream come true. The best vendors, the most amazing photographers and your dream wedding await. All you need to do is call or email me and we can get started.



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