The Tres Chic Bride

C+T - Mark Garber Style

2011-09-26T22:27:00.000-07:00

As promised here are a few of Mark Garber's pictures of C+T's wedding at the Bell. I wish I had an inch of their talent....sigh. Pop over to their blog to see more!

C+T - Married at Bell Event Center!

2011-09-24T22:21:00.000-07:00

Helloooo my lovely peeps! I know I've been absent. Let's skip the drawn-out apologies and dive into a wedding, shall we?

I've been very excited for C+T's wedding for months! Why? Let me count the ways...

1. C is super-sweet and fabulous, that always makes for a fun day!
2. The ceremony and reception were at The Bell Event Centre. We LOVE this place! Not only is it beautiful but the staff is just amazing. I truly enjoy working with Amy and her team.
3. The couple was inspired by all things Roman. Hello statues, unique and very cool.
4. Coldstone delivered..wait for it...ice cream cupcakes. Yes!
5. We got to work with the uber-fabulous Mark and Jennifer Garber and Courtenay Lambert stepped in to save the day 3 weeks before the wedding. She's good at that.
6. Rick stepped outside his comfort zone and skyped with C's prego sister in Austraila on the ipad! This is huge people, Rick doesn't 'work the internet machine' very well. He thinks blogs are like chat rooms....
7. Ice cream cupcakes. Yep, counts twice.

Morning C! Getting beautified by Glossa!

If your in Cincy and are looking for the personalized hangers I have a great vendor for you :)

LOVE the color combination. Very chic.

Bridesmaid's Bouquets - Courtenay rocks my world :)

Centerpiece #1 - Clean, simple branches with orchids

Centerpiece 2 - Roman statues that the couple collected over time. Very unique

Centerpiece 3, Keyante bottles with simple blooms

Memory Table

Escort card display. Pictures don't do it justice, it was beautiful. And took forever to set up...

Guestbook - they had a local calligrapher print prompts for the guests to respond to.

Bell Event Centre in all it's glory. It's always so stunning!

Lighting by Special Events and Creative Services

The money shot - the ice cream cupcake! It was as good as it sounds...

and a wee little teasers from the incredible Garber team. I'll post their shots sooooooon.

Happy Weekend Everyone! My little seister {ok technically Rick's little sister and my little seister-in-law} gets married next Friday!! So excited and will post asap. I also have plans to blog her Roaring 1920's theme bachelorette weekend, complete with burlesque lessons and a party bus. Like a real bus.

Epic.

In the meantime, come back soon to see pictures from the most unique wedding we've EVER done. The card box was a replica of Bender {like from Futurama, Bender} and the boutonnières were computer chips and motorcycles AND it was shot by the incomparable Tine Hoffman. Oh yeah, it's that good! See you soon!

Wine Glass Lamps!

2011-08-30T17:14:00.000-07:00

I'm totally loving this idea!! You can find a template here with detailed instructions here. Imagine all the possibilities! LOVE IT! Happy DIY-ing!

Thanks to TC Brides for pinning this ;)

Pinterest and Weddings - a perfect pair

2011-08-08T10:05:00.000-07:00

Do you all use Pinterest?

If not, you should.

Like I mentioned below, Courtenay Lambert was the one that helped me see the light of how helpful this little site can be. I now have several brides utilizing the boards to share ideas for their weddings with me. Courtenay recently blogged about how to use the site so I figured I'd save some time and direct you to her post about it.

Now remember, I'm new so my boards aren't as full as Courtenay's, but I'm quickly wasting a lot of time and I'm getting there ;)

From Court's Blog: take the jump to read the deets!

Create a Pinterest account.

Explore the web for your favorite photos.

Start pinning!

Weddings and Baby's Breath 2.0

2011-07-29T06:36:00.000-07:00

I recently jumped on the Pinterest bus {thanks to Courtenay!} and one of my first boards turned out to be a winter wedding inspiration. Which then took the jump to this:

I was just having a conversation with Courtenay about using baby's breath in centerpieces. I am totally in love with this. I feel like it's a fluffy cloud that I want to curl up on. While I was going with a winter theme the more I searched the more versatile it became. BTW - I totally posted about using baby's breath in 2008. Hello ahead of the curve. hehe.

Vintage:

Modern-ish:

Romantic:

{There's something so right about baby's breath and candle light.}

Whimsical:

Ceremony:

Bouquets:

{This is still my favorite}

But please, let's not go here:

Just like carnations, I think baby's breath is one of those flowers that you should use in large quantities, on their own. Let's keep it in the twenty-first century, k?

{{And if you jump to my pinterest board be patient, I'm just getting started!}}

Ikea Engagement Pictures?! Awesomeness!

2011-07-13T17:08:00.000-07:00

Awesome, creative couple + a phenomenally talented photographer = unforgettable e-pics.

Check the link to TC Couple, Stacey and Rick's ikea e-pics by Tine Hoffman. I promise you'll be glad you did! SO excited for this September wedding!

Love it!!! I'm still grinning :)

A+L - Married!

2011-07-09T19:09:00.000-07:00

Before we get to our July wedding maybe we should back up to May! I'm such a slacker for just posting these now.

Meet A + L:

A is a very good friend of my seister {not a typo - that's what we call each other!} - they rocked the Mercy Anderson ER together. A was on this little ole' blog all the time and was driving my seister nuts with questions until she said "enough! call my sister!" so after several emails we met and she officially hired us. And man am I glad she did! We had a great time on their wedding day.

My sis and the bride! Pretty girls!

I talked with A so often and adored her so much that I made it a personal goal to make sure everything was perfect. Including the bouquets, which I re-did in the parking lot of Kroger becuase I wasn't happy with the way they turned out. {no, I will not reveal the florist's name}. Anyway, on to the beautiful shots that ever-talented Tracy Doyle took of the day. BTW - Tracy was the first vendor recommendation I gave. I totally adore that chick!

On the way to the first meet. I adore this shot.

Clearly L is a firefighter. I love that they incorporated that into the wedding day!

Meet their 3 adorable boys who served as ring barers. Soooo sweet!

And the beautiful flower girl {my niece!}

The light came through the stained glass at the perfect time. Beautiful!

DBWP {done by wedding planner - me!} also shot by me.

What you don't know is the my lovely niece had a breakdown right before walking down the aisle. Like holding her breath, stomping her feet fit. All because Uncle Ricky told her not to drop her petals yet. Nice.

The rest of the pictures are shot by moi.

The cake was made by the bride's mom! For reals!

And here's the perfect image to end this post on. Cla-ssic.

Love you guys!!!

R+M featured in The Knot!

2011-07-05T10:32:00.000-07:00

We're so excited to have R+M's wedding featured in the current Knot Magazine issue!!

Major props to our amazing vendors, Mark Garber Photography and Courtenay Lambert Florals. Thanks again for everything you did to bring this day together!

2011-07-04T10:29:00.000-07:00

Blink of an Eye Photography

Happy 4th of July! Can't wait to share all the ah-maz-ing photos from our holiday weekend wedding. It was beyond words!!!

Vintage Escort Card Display

2011-06-01T17:18:00.000-07:00

I can't even handle this beautifulness that I stumbled upon while google-image-ing {yup made that up!}. Elizabeth Ann Designs always features beautiful things but this is just beyond. Jump over to the "Past to Present: Timeless Vintage Details" post to see more images and learn how to create this display yourself!

From the blog: "The escort cards were written with the table number and what the number meant to the couple, instead of “Table 2, cards read “2 adorable pets we have”, to tie back into the couple’s own life and experiences together." I looooove this idea!!!

CP - I can totally see this at your wedding!

Sneak Peak of Cincinnati Wedding Magazine's Featured Bouquet by Courtenay Lambert Florals

2011-05-26T01:04:00.000-07:00

Uber-fabulous, Courtenay Lambert Florals, is being featured in the upcoming issue of Cincinnati Wedding Magazine. Courtenay gifted me the bouquet {she's sweet like that} and I thought I would snap a few shots to give you all a super secret look at what's going to be in the magazine before anyone else gets to see! Gorgeous, no?

This is totally my next door neighbors detached garage. I was trying to channel my inner Kortnee Kate and mix the ornate bouquet with a rustic background. Clearly there's a reason I'm not a professional photographer...

Ack! I love the richness of the flower colors!

While I was at the Bridal Studio Courtenay wrapped up some garden roses to send home with me. Benefit #184 of being a wedding planner. I was never a huge flower person before but now I truly appreciate their beauty.

{Favorite picture alert. I could stare at this all day long. Oh that color!

Especially with all the rain we've been getting here in Cincy!}

Unique Ceremony Backdrops {fabric, ribbon, paper flowers..oh my!}

2011-05-24T13:04:00.000-07:00

I received an email from a TC bride today asking me "what we can do for a ceremony backdrop that doesn't involves flowers/arches etc.". I did a quick search to see what's out there in the world of backdrops and here's a few of my favorite finds.

1. Ribbon Wall

(photo by Kelly Guenther Wedding Photojournalism via Wedding Aces)

2. Projected Image

I found this one via wedding by color and just love the idea. Super easy and relatively inexpensive. This has the same idea as a projected the image {gobo} on a wall popular at receptions.

3. Fabric 'Frame'

via Ready Made

I love this idea. In fact, it might debut at my niece's 4th birthday party next week...DIY secrets on Ready Made!

4. A Pink Wall {or any other color you like!}

I couldn't think of any other way to describe this other than 'wall'. Because that's what it looks like! And it is STUNNING! This was designed by Celebrity wedding planner Diann Valentine via Wedding Paper Divas. I think something like this could be accomplished using dry wall. Anyone ever tried??

5. Paper Flower Wall

St. Jude's Creations constructed this intricate paper flower wall inspired by a Chanel fashion show. It is not just amazing? I think I need one. Jump over to her site to see the flowers up close to fully appreciate their brilliance.

6. Furniture

{Stephanie Fay Photography}

Seriously, how adorable is this? I saw these images last year and just fell in love with the idea.

Anyone out there do any of these backdrops for your ceremony? What's your favorite??

C+J Cincinnati Wedding Planning - Green Acres

2011-05-22T01:17:00.000-07:00

K I do have a for real excuse for where I've been. The past few months have been very challenging but we're on our way up! I won't bore you with all the deets but you can jump over to my personal blog if you'd like to catch up :)

The wedding season is officially in full swing and we've been rockin' on some amazing events. First up, C+J! We hooked with this lovely family through my MIL {mother-in-law for those of you who aren't up on your wedding abbreviations}, MIL mentioned to one of her co-workers several years ago that Rick and I were in the biz and they rang her up totally out of the blue and said 'doesn't your son do weddings?' heck-to-the-yeah he does! Soooo we met and now Rick and I just adore this family!

First of all the wedding was held at Green Acres. Holy bajesus that place is beautiful! It is the 2nd venue that made me want to re-do my own wedding. Seriously it is just amazing!

We had great vendors working with us, making sure everything was just *perfect*.

Photographer - Jeff Schaefer Photography

Florist - Robin Wood Flowers

Caterer - La Petite Pierre

Rentals - Camargo Rentals

Videography - Third Impression Productions

Cake - The Bonbonerie

Hair and Makeup - Eyedo Makeup and Hair Design

TheTrees.TheFlowers.TheKiss. Love it all!

Oh the peonies!! Perfection.

Want a water fountain at your venue? Yep, Green Acres has that, too!

The stunning ceremony location, outside. We held out putting the chairs in place until the afternoon showers passed. And it started to drizzle at their announcement and then POUR as soon as guests entered the house for cocktail hour. Bless Rick for carrying 180 chivari chairs down to the reception tent in the rain. That's dedication.

You'd never guess it was a rainy day from the tent. So bright and beautiful.

I loved this circular bar right when you entered the tent. Bravo, Camargo, bravo.

C+J alternated a band and a DJ and their guests had SO MUCH fun. The dance floor was packed all night long. The bride's family is from Peru and let me tell you, they know how to party. The Peruvian band was such a great addition and super-fun people to work with. If you're looking for some traditional music we've got the hook up for you!

Congratulations to a beautiful couple, we're so honored to have been a part of your wedding. And thanks, MIL for adding an amazing couple {and family!!} to our TC family. Much love to all!

Meet the Vendors: Poeme Stationary, Cincinnati

2011-05-02T05:00:00.000-07:00

We'll combine two features for today's post, our existing 'Meet the Vendors' and our obsession with all things Royal Wedding.

Meet Kristen Folzenlogen with Poeme, stationary designer extraordinaire.

I've had the write up of today's feature for..oh, almost a year now, but they're so busy that we didn't have any high-res pictures of the paper goods!

Step in royal wedding shoot - Kristen had the most.perfect.invitations already printed. Heavy paper? Check! Gold Edging? Check! Engraved? CHECK!

Check it out:

Kristen was so kind to let me borrow this gorgeous invites for the last minute shoot. And a week later I came to her with yet another stationary emergency ---- re-design and print an entire new invitation suite for a July wedding. And let me tell you, she ROCKED it out. I am so thankful for her and her amazing talent.

Sooo...Kristen, I hope it's ok, I dug into my client photos and pulled your work from the weddings we worked on in the past. Oh and I grabbed the tattoo one from your blog. Keep reading to see those!!

Let's get on with it!

Name: Kristen Folzenlogen

Website: www.poeme-online.com

Location: 3446 Michigan Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45208 and available for consultations by appointment at The Bridal Studio in MainStrasse, 610 Main Street, Covington, Kentucky 41011

Company Name: Poeme

Type of Vendor: Stationery and Wedding Invitations

Number of Years in Business: 10

How did you get started in the wedding industry? Actually, by chance. I was working at a corporate communications company in Chicago and one of our clients happened to be getting married. I ended up designing her wedding invitations and that single job generated good word of mouth and referrals and I had to quit my full time job roughly 8 months later to accommodate the amount of wedding invitations I was designing.

How did you pick your company name? The original name of our company was Letter Heads, Ltd., however three years ago we were approached by a friendly competitor to purchase her stationery boutique in Hyde Park. It was a natural transition for us as far as the services and products we were offering, but because Poeme was a more recognizable brand, we decided to transition the name to encompass all of our services, including the custom design.

If you had to start over what one thing would you do differently? Nothing. I feel very fortunate that we have grown gracefully and gradually. Sure, I could look back and say "I wish I had written a business plan" but perhaps if I had taken the time to do that, then I would not have had the opportunity to meet and work with many of my early clients... I have learned so much, and still do, from each of my clients that the best way to continue to move forward is to hopefully keep doing what we've been doing!

What is your company philosophy? Listen, listen, listen. Really hear what our clients are saying. Really understand what our colleagues expect from us. Really digest how to become a better representative of the products and services we offer... The thing is with weddings, is that they are very, very personal - so there are two ways a relationship can go... the way we perceive it should, or the way the other person perceives it. If we can meet other's expectations, then we can continue to grow and change and offer innovative designs and products. If we simply offer services and products that are our tastes and cater to our inclinations, we will only stagnate and bore/alienate the people with whom I work.

What's one thing you want clients/vendors to know most about your services? Quite simply - that we are exactly that - a service, not a product. With regards to wedding stationery there is so much more to it than paper and ink. There is etiquette, and tradition, and courtesy and a whole slew of other elements that affect and will be affected by the wedding stationery... it is our job to show a couple beautiful materials and designs, but it is even more important for us to be able to explain how it can affect their guests, their day and the entire planning process. And most importantly, the entire process should be interesting and fun.

Do you have any hidden talents or favorite hobbies? I use to be a professional dancer/choreographer. I have run one full marathon and four half marathons. If I had more time I think I would like to become a much better seamstress. It I had more time I would like to have more hobbies ;)

What are your three favorite blogs? I spend so much time on my computer, I really don't do a lot of surfing outside of work. When I have the chance I do like to visit design*sponge, and I enjoy Made By Girl, Young House Love, and How About Orange. Oh, and of course... http://poemestationery.blogspot.com/ - it's in it's infant stages (like I said, I'd rather be working on paper than blogging), but we have some great things coming up and hope to be posting more regularly!

My not-so fab shots don't do these justice. They were beautiful!!

Kristen, thanks for always coming through! YOU ARE AMAZING!

And here's the tatoo picture. Love it!

Royal Wedding Feature on Bride's Cafe!

2011-04-29T07:16:00.000-07:00

Our Royal Wedding inspiration shoot is featured on The Bride's Cafe today! I'm a huge fan of the site and am so excited to be a part of it! Thanks for featuring us!

Royal Wedding Shoot Highlight: Sugar Realm

2011-04-27T12:12:00.000-07:00

I thought I would highlight different sections of the Royal Wedding shoot we did yesterday. Where better to start than with the cake?

After all, wasn't it a royal that infamously said

Let Them Eat Cake!

When I received the phone call that the news was interested in doing a story about the royal wedding I started brainstorming about what would be compelling for the viewers. I knew I wanted to represent every aspect of a wedding, and to me, the wedding cake is one of the most important elements of the evening.

Think about it, what are some of the pictures that you always take as a guest?

ceremony
grand entrance
cake set up
centerpieces
cake cutting
cake smashing {or the hopes of...}

Yes, the cake is important. So who did I immediately call when I realized I needed a cake? Ileana with Sugar Realm - Fine Bakery + Confectioners Design. But wait, I've never actually worked with her before....

So for one of the biggest opportunities TC has had to date, I turned to

a.complete.stranger.

Meet Ileana! Gorgeous, huh?

If that doesn't speak to the trust and admiration I have for her work, I don't know what does. The only direction I gave her was that we were looking for an opulent cake that would work with a gold, ivory and sapphire color pallet. How perfect was this:

The design concept was a fashion inspired cake with sugar flowers and accents. Pulling from the world of Couture, Ileana added a glamerous element by incorporating rhinestones and detailed cameos. The rhinestones were added to reflect the light and sparkle under the amazing chandelier.

The application of color with airbrushing techniques and edible luster powders added an unexpected dimensional element to the cake. While introducing the separators inbetween the tiers is a contemporary interpretation of traditional cake arrangement and creates sculptural volume while playing with the overall composition.

You can achieve a look similar to this by controlling the touches of high end components, such as, sugar gems,rhinestones, specialty ribbons and detailed custom sugar decorations,such as the sugar cameos and textured buttons. This cake as is serves 80. It would be around $1,000 including the rhinestones, delivery, set up and pedestal rental

Ileana challenges you to consider the dual role of the cake as sculptural centerpiece as much as a dessert.
Prime location of cake within the table layout that can be enjoyed thruought the party!

Ileana, thank you for bringing this together and all the work you put in to make the shoot successful. I am truly looking forward to working with you on a 'real' wedding. I'm confident TC clients will be as in awe of your work as I am.

:::All photographs by Kortnee Kate Photography, flowers by Courtenay Lambert Florals,

shot on location at an available private home in Cincinnati:::

Royal Wedding Inspiration Comes Alive in Cincinnati

2011-04-25T19:04:00.000-07:00

I received a phone call last Friday morning from our local news station {WCPO} that went something like this:

Me: ::Piping icing on cupcakes:: How can I help you?

News: We received your name from several people who recommended you for a segment around the royal wedding. Are you interested?

Me: Of course :::jumping up and down:::

News: Great! We will shoot Monday at 11:00 a.m.

Me: Like Monday, Monday? The one that's 3 days away and one of those days is a holiday?

News: Yes, can you do it?

Me: Of course! I'll have everything ready to go Monday morning

:::::hangs up the phone:::: WHOA!

So, I called my good friend Courtenay of Courtenay Lambert Florals and asked her if she was up for the challenge. And thankfully she was. From there Ileana of Sugar Realm jumped on board for the cake, Kristen of Poeme had amazing invitations, All Occasions stepped in and hooked us up with tons of linens and rentals, A Touch of Summer signed on the make us beautiful and Kortnee Kate turned a news story into a full fledged photo shoot. Whew!

But wait - we didn't have a location!! Step in, Amy Rubenstein, a realtor with sibcy cline, and she had the.most.perfect home for sale that we could shoot in. I would like to move to Moon Valley Lane now.

And this is what we produced. In 3 days. Ah-maz-ing.

{all photos by Kortnee Kate Photography}

The segment is now on WCPO's website. Check out my 30 seconds of fame...many more photos and details to come!

Mad love to my ladies who made this happen. You are all rock-stars and I'd be honored to have you on my team for any wedding, at any time. Thank you. x infinity.
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Wedding Reception Transformed with Lighting

2011-03-04T15:21:00.000-08:00

As I eluded to before, the space from our last wedding was completely transformed. Pictures speak louder than words so here you go.

OK, OK so I didn't get a pic before it was all prettied up so imagine it without the kids from this internet picture. See it? Yup, it's a GYM.

A run-of-the-mill church gym, complete with purple paint and basketball hoops. Uber-chic if I do say so myself ;)

So how did they go from that to this:

White Linens from L&H rentals
Silver organza overlays
White chair covers from Chair Covers of Cincinnati
Beautiful centerpieces from Courtenay Lambert Florals {MOB bought the branches!}

OK great but it's just not there....

Here.We.Go.

LIGHTING from Party Pleasers.

BUT THOSE WALLS!!...

Fixed with draping, also by Party Pleasers.

Add some decorative touches....

And bam. Total transformation. That gym was no match for this wedding! What's your next challenge?

P.S. those blue glasses add just the right amount of color to the table. Purchased by the mother of the bride, it's little touches that make everything pop.

P.S.S Said MOB has 430 of those blue glasses if your interested in renting them ;)

Anthropologie Wedding Line: BHLDN

2011-03-03T08:29:00.000-08:00

If you haven't heard {where have you been??!!} Anthropologie released their new wedding line, BHLDN, on Valentine's Day. There are some stunning pieces that would totally work for life outside weddings. Items are surprisingly affordable and amazingly stylish. Overall, totally lov'in it.

Tiered Tulip Gown, $2,400

LOVE this "Pleated Fantasy Gown", $3,600

I'd totally wear this one! PASTILLE MINI DRESS, $260

O.M.G. Yes please!!!

Moonlight Peep Toes, $300 and Bow-Topped Slingbacks, $310

Beautiful Crystallized Chiffon Headband, $225

And some super-cute boleros

Oh And I totally NEED {yes, need} this ring. Please. $80

Wedding Dresses at Costco??

2011-03-02T08:28:00.000-08:00

For real - Kirstie Kelly wedding dresses at Costco. And they're cute. And some are under $1,000. And they come in sizes 2-24. Stampede begins October 2011. Welcome.

Winter Wonderland Wedding

2011-02-28T12:20:00.000-08:00

{A.K.A Our Second (big fat) Greek Wedding}

Mrs. S came to me through Mrs. M {here, here and here} and we feel so blessed to get to work with the family again. Seriously, we love this family. They love loud and let you know exactly what they want and don't want, how couldn't you love that?

Our Vendors:
Church: St Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church
Hall: St Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church
Photog: Joe Biggs
Video: Jeff Harper
Draping and lighting: Party Pleasers
Centerpieces: Courtenay Lambert
Catering: Hilvers
Cake: Patricia's
Chair Covers: Chair Covers of Cincinnati

Here's some shots I took {with my fab new camera!}!

{aisle arrangements by the goom's mom!}

The reception

Courtenay's new mirror vases - amazing? Yes, yes they are.

I've said this before and I'll say it again - Greek weddings are my favorite. The amount of love and respect is inspiring. And the dancing. Oh my, the dancing. Love Love LOVE. Do you think they're having a good time??

{Hi Mrs. M! Gorgeous as usual}

And no Greek wedding is complete without a TON of desserts. Mrs. S did not disappoint. Yuuuuuum.

The families put a ton of work into the wedding, bringing us in to coordinate things for the last week. We're talking serious DIY-ing. See, you can do it, too!

Check back in the next couple days and see just how much the lighting changed this space. You'll be shocked! Trust me ;)

Fingerprint Wedding Guestbook

2011-02-27T15:40:00.000-08:00

From weddings to birthday parties, I think it's really really important to document everyone who was present that day. I'm always on the look out for new and innventive ways to document the loved ones that attend events, {see this post for ideas} but this one is super unique...

I mean, what's more unique than fingerprints. Nothing, that's what.

Bleu de toi's etsy shop is defintiley place to stop for a different take on your guestbook. Just purchase the print...

lay it out with ink pads and markers...

...and let your guests create their 'leaves'. Love it.

I'd totally do this for my niece or nephews birthday parties!

What do you think? Too personal? Too forensic-ish? Is that a word??? :)

Courtenay Lambert Florals - bringin' back Emerald Green...

2011-02-09T06:41:00.000-08:00

Rick and I have been blessed to work with some of the greatest people in the area. Cincinnati may not be a huge city but we have some of the most talented vendors around. One of those peeps is Courtenay Lambert Florals, if you read this blog regularly then you probably noticed that we work with Courtenay a lot {she even has her own link there on the right} and you've seen just how talented she is.

Yesterday I was at her shop working on an upcoming event and we went into her work room. There, in her cooler, I saw the most beautiful bouquet and when she pulled it out of the cooler I literally gasped in delight when I saw the stem. Now, it's standard practice to wrap the stems, but there was something about how she wrapped this one that I just loved. Being the doll that she is, Court told me to take the bouquet home to enjoy and I told her 'no! you have to take some shots of that stem!'. Long story long, I ended up taking it home before she could take any pictures and as soon as I got home I braved the cold to try and get some decent shots for her.

And here we are, my shots taken on a ~~cold~~ freezing evening in my backyard. Seriously, I don't know how photographers do it. My hands were ice within 10 minutes! It was awful!

Isn't it gorgeous?! And remember, it's over a week old! It's a mix of Baronesse garden roses and pink Majolika spray roses. Don't they look like peonies?! Another cool thing Court does is actually sell those broaches. They run around $45.00 and up depending on the designer. I just love a one-stop shop!

OK but the real reason I wanted to show you this is because of the stunning stem wrap {I think I just made that the official name for it...}. I love the layered ribbon and the style of the 'bow'. And the emerald green color? To-Die-For. Seriously, look at how it pops off the flowers. Love Love Love.

Court says she is "single handedly bringing emerald green back". I'm totally on board!!

TC brides - how about a little emerald green on your bouquet this year?? :)

Featured: The Knot - Vintage Weddings

2011-02-05T09:13:00.000-08:00

Did you guys know that the knot had a offshoot site call Vintage Weddings? I didn't until I was pulling pictures and found S+J's wedding featured there! I love that they pulled different pictures from what's featured in the magazine, I felt like they provided another look into the details of the event! I was also psyched to see that several of Courtenay Lambert's fabulous flowers were selected as 'knot picks'. She rocks. See more of the details here!

Of course, all these amazing shots are courtesy of the dynamic duo, Ted and Kortnee of Kortnee Kate Photography!

Want to know a little secret? When I met with S+J in the very beginning S said that she loves pictures of guests holding mustaches. I made these to surprise her on the wedding day :) For the sign, I worked from the existing design to add the 'feeling silly?' to the photobooth table. It's the little details! Apparently it caught The Knot's attention because it's on the website and in the spread! Wahoo!

Anyway, if you're planning a vintage wedding definitely scope out the Vintage Weddings website. There's some really good stuff on there! {and I'm not just saying that because our work in on there. Ok maybe...no no, there really is good stuff! haha}

S+J featured in The Knot!

2011-02-01T18:09:00.000-08:00

We were psyched when The Knot contacted us about S+J's wedding being featured! Check out the amazing shots by Kortnee Kate! Lovin' the spread :)

Congratulations S+J, we certainly think you wedding was magazine-worthy, glad the knot agreed! To see more pictures hop over to my original post about the event.

Bridesmaid's Dresses - Limited Style

2011-01-23T16:24:00.000-08:00

Following in J Crew's footsteps, The Limited recently launched their weddings and special events collection. Most of the dresses are a steal at under $100 and they are totally wearable. I would rock this first one as a wedding guest!

I think this one is so sweet, very vintage garden.

My favorite is this 'reception' dress {$298.00}

They also have some really fabulous accessories at great prices. The necklace is $98 and the bracelet is $49. I might wait for it to go on sale and rock it myself!

What do you guys think of their new venture??

Weddings - Rue La La Style

2011-01-20T08:13:00.000-08:00

Just a quick post to remind everyone that Rue La La's "Style. I Do!" boutique is now open! They have wedding dresses, veils and super cute accessories for great prices. I'm sure they will sell out fast so make sure to bounce on over there before everything is sold out!

My pick? The Wedding Paper Diva's offer. Love their stuff!

Exclusive to Rue La La Members, this offer includes:

$50 towards designer paper products online at Wedding Paper Divas. Offer not valid on letterpress, thermography products, or mint tins. Limited to one offer per person.
Choose from an impressive assortment of personalized wedding invitations, save the dates, wedding-related party invitations, engagement announcements, thank you cards, and more.

Not a member of Rue La La? {Where have you been?!} Just sign up here :)

Cupcake bar? Yes Please!!!

2011-01-16T09:50:00.000-08:00

Cupcakes are the new cake. Did you know that? Seriously, there's been this huge surge in cupcakes over the past year {or two}. I mean you've got a TV show dedicated to Cupcake Wars for gosh sakes. I'd say they are pretty darn popular.

One night when I was brainstorming on some new ideas for weddings I found myself thinking "why not have a cupcake bar?!" {ok maybe I was watching cupcake wars at the time. And maybe Mindy Weiss was on it....}

So, I pop on my little computer and start researching...and would you believe it? One of my favorite blogs, Green Wedding Shoes, did an amazing concept shoot last year featuring - you guessed it - DIY cupcake topping bar. For real - in love.

They did a rustic theme but you could easily transform the ideas to fit any feeling your trying to accomplish. My favorite part? The gourmet fillings...

The trick to keeping the fillings in place it to apply the icing in a circle like this:

Seeing as how most guests wouldn't know that, I think the perfect addition to this bar is a how to video of you and your man instructing the guests on how to assemble them. How cute would that be? You could have so much fun and I pretty much promise your guests would love it! It's another glimpse into who you and your hubs are and how much you love each other. And THAT is what makes a good and memorable wedding.

mmmmmm....I'll have the first one please ;)

Have you seen this done at any weddings? Is it something you would be interested in? Talk to me!

Inspired by: Marie Antoinette

2011-01-08T06:29:00.000-08:00

Happy Saturday! Just some eye candy via the Wedding Chicks! Amazing...

Marie Antoinette and all of her extravagance makes for the perfect wedding inspiration. Tab McCausland and other Florida wedding vendors collaborated to give you a little Marie Antoinette wedding inspiration, straight from Versailles. Of course there are more images for you peruse at your leisure. Click here to see the entire gallery.

Be sure to check out the behind scenes video!

Photographer: Tab McCausland
Event Design: Weddings in the City
Venue: Ballroom at Church Street Station
Makeup: Ana Rivera
Hair: Ana Rivera
Cake/Desserts: Anna Cakes
Cinematography: Cinematique Films
Dress Designer: Pricilla of Boston
Floral Design: AtmospheresRental Company: A Chair Affair, IncClothes Stylist: Lori Loftis

One of the few things you can't control - a rainy wedding day

2010-12-02T17:30:00.000-08:00

While posting K+J's pictures I started to reminisce about that day. While getting K ready, the forecast changed from clear skies to rain, rain and more rain. We tried to rush to get pictures done before the skies opened up but no such luck, we had to shoot in the rain. And although we didn't miss the rain, we did get the next best thing...a super-relaxed, go-with-the-flow couple and wedding party.

This made me want to get on here and blog about how, while there's lots of things to stress about, the weather isn't one of them. Why? Well honestly, because there isn't a darn thing you can do about it!!!

Now, before you start thinking about how it's easy for me to say that because it's not my wedding, listen - I am a survior of a rainy day wedding! And my ceremony was outside! So trust me, I've been there - and there's nothing you can do about it. So, although it is disheartening and upsetting, if it decides to rain on your wedding day just try to relax and go with the flow.

Honestly, some of my favorite pictures have been done in the rain. Both of these were shot by Kortnee Kate Photography and are among my top fave shots of all time {I'm biased, the second one is currently blown up and famed over my bed. No sillies, it's not a client! It's me and Rick. That would be a little creepy...}

Some more eye candy to reiterate just how amazing rainy photos can be

Great rainy pictures aren't only limited to a light sprinkle...

And I now believe that no wedding album is complete without a gorgeous gown and rain boots. I mean really? Everyone needs rain boots - bridesmaids gift???

Perhaps a monogrammed umbrella..yep, definitely a monogrammed umbrella ;)

So let this be the one thing you let go of and just relax. Spend your time on other things you can control, like buying your girls new galoshes. Nobody can control the weather, not even a meteorologist.

P.S. I'm a size 8 ;)

and I can't resist posting these. Awww memories...

K+ J - Drees Pavillion - Kortnee Kate Style

2010-11-29T12:59:00.000-08:00

Happy Monday! How about some beautiful images from our latest wedding with Kortnee Kate?

Mom served double duties as mother of the bride and matron of honor. Such a sweet gesture and makes for some super-sentimental photos.

First meet at Drees Pavillion. Such an amazing backdrop!

Looking at the pictures you would think we had a beautiful wedding day with amazing weather...NOT SO! It was coooold and raining! K+J were beyond amazing about the 'challenge' and totally jumped in and didn't let the weather get them down. The result? Beyond breath-taking pictures like these.

Off to the reception! Who doesn't like to have a little fun in the limo?? Not this guy! Love it!

Reception was held at Drees Pavillion

Flowers by Courtenay Lambert Florals

Meet The Vendors: Maxim Photo Studio

2010-11-22T08:32:00.000-08:00

I found Maxim when I was doing research for my sister-in-law's upcoming wedding. Max was the perfect fit and I just had to share more about his business!! Jen's wedding isn't until next September but I'm sure you'll be hearing more and more about it!

Name: Max Surikov

Website: Maxim Photo Studio and Maxim Photo Studio.net (weblog)

Location:   Springboro OH (Serving Greater Cincinnati, Dayton and surrounding areas)

Company Name:  Maxim Photo Studio

Type of Vendor:    Photography and Videography

Number of Years in Business:    5 years

How did you get started in the wedding industry?

I purchased my first camera in 1999 so that I could take pictures of my honeymoon. In the following 5 years I became very interested in photography and started to accumulate a great deal of photography equipment, but wasn’t charging anyone for my services. My wife, mentioned one day that I may want to stop deficit financing our kids inheritance and should start to make some money. I am a CPA by profession and did some number crunching to figure out what it would take to leave the world of consulting and get into photography fulltime. I took a weekend course with a great wedding photographer in Leesburg VA by the name of Don Harper. Don has probably forgotten more photography techniques, then I could ever hope to acquire and after this course I decided to pursue wedding photography a career. That was a long 6 years ago, but seems like only yesterday.

How did you pick your company name?

I wanted to use my Russian given name, ‘Maxim’ somewhere in the title. I then had to pick a business name which wasn’t already taken and for which a .com and .net extensions were available. I didn’t want to use the term photography such as “Max Surikov Photography” in my name because everyone else does that already. I also liked the idea of a professional photography studio which connotes the idea that we are lighting and photography professionals. I put all of three together to come up with Maxim Photo Studio.

If you had to start over what one thing would you do differently?

The short answer is that I would have demonstrated my differences much more than I have. My biggest mistake in the first couple of year of photographing weddings was following the popular techniques because I hadn’t fully developed my style yet. I tried copying various trends during my wedding coverage as well as in post production, but what that meant was that my work looked like someone else’s and it wasn’t personally fulfilling. Now, I still look at other photographers work, but I am much more judicious about utilizing other photographers styles and techniques.

{{{I LOVE this answer! So honest and so true for so many of us!}}}

What is your company philosophy?

Maxim Photo Studio is a customer service centric business first and foremost. There have been numerous studies that have shown that a customer’s negative comment gets transmitted to ten other people, while a good comment is only seen by 2 others. We think it is imperative that were are professional in how we represent ourselves and responsive from the first consultation and following the wedding day.

What's one thing you want clients/vendors to know most about your services?

In the wedding industry it is important to stand out and be different. This year we started providing video coverage with all of our engagements in what we call our e-Motion Engagement sessions. I am not aware of any other local studio that is offering this. Most importantly, we are “anti-trend”. When everyone shoots exclusively natural or available light, we bring in flashes and strobes, when photographers started to use selective or vintage colors for most of their post processing, we counter with rich and vivid colors in our portraits and when others over promise and deliver, we under promise and over deliver. Lastly, we are constantly evolving. For example, in 2011 we are going to begin covering all of our weddings through photography and videography. This will allow our couples to experience their wedding day in a completely unique way.

Do you have any hidden talents or favorite hobbies?

In my prior life, I was a competitive table tennis player. In 1980, when I was 10, I attended a table tennis camp from which future Russian Table tennis players were going to be chosen for the 1988 Seoul Olympics. I immigrated from Russia a year later and never competed in table tennis again. My other passion is weightlifting. I competed on an amateur bodybuilding circuit when I lived in Virginia in 1999 and have maintained an active workout regimen for the past 21 years.

What are your three favorite blogs?

I don’t have favorite blogs which I frequent on regular basis. I am a member of the Digital Wedding Forum and also rely on social media to guide me on the latest wedding must sees. Facebook and Twitter are my favorite social media options.

And now for the eye candy!!

Max, thanks for taking the time to talk so openly about your business! Can't wait to see what new and exciting things Maxim Photo Studio comes up with in the future!

Rustic Wedding Details from Etsy

2010-10-29T08:14:00.000-07:00

I stumpled upon Bragging Bags etsy shop and just had to share. The items are a perfect fit for the popular rustic weddings. Here are some of my favorites!

BTW - what did we do before etsy?? Oh yeah - 50 billion DIY projects ;)

B+M Kortnee Kate Style @ Cincinnati Music Hall III - Damask!

2010-10-26T08:01:00.000-07:00

I hope you are all enjoying the images from Britt's Music Hall wedding! Make sure to check out the first post and Ceremony Details from earlier. I saved the best for last, the reception and details!!!

Quick Reminder on Vendors:

Ceremony/Reception: Cincinnati Music Hall

Florist: Courtenay Lambert Florals

Photographer: Kortnee Kate

Videographer: Studio Z Films

DJ: DJ Toad

Cake: Maribelle

Grooms Cake: Artrageous Desserts

Photobooth: LiveClick

Paper Products: Kristen with Poeme

Furniture Rental: Accent on Cincinnati

Runner Rental - Marquee Rents

Details, details, details!

I love this - table # on one side and the menu on the other. Perfect for those large weddings when you don't want to do 460 individual menus!

The couple met many years ago through their parents' card games. Personalized decks of cards with their story served as favors. In pink, of course!

E-pic guest book by Kortnee Kate

Fun with LiveClick props!

My thoughts exactly, M ;)

Amazing wedding, amazing vendors, amazing couple. Lots of love!

B+M Kortnee Kate Style @ Music Hall II

2010-10-25T05:49:00.000-07:00

{{{Welcome to part II! If you missed Part I check it out here}}}

Yet another reason why I loved this wedding - it was another full planning wedding {we call it "The TC Wedding"} and it really solidified my love for being totally involved in our events. I'm all for day of, but there's so much satisfaction seeing everything you work on for so long come to life. It's kinda like I get to have several weddings a year! It's funny though, when I say how much work it is Rick responds "isn't it the same work as day of?". Oh hunny...
Our ceremony vendors:

Ceremony/Reception: Cincinnati Music Hall {breathtaking!!!}

Florist: Courtenay Lambert Florals

Photographer: Kortnee Kate

Videographer: Studio Z Films

Paper Products: Poeme

Aisle Runner: Artful Celebrations (Etsy)

Pianist: Brian Cashwell

Soloist: Jeri Lack

And what do you do if you repurpose your ceremony flowers through the same route the guests take to the reception? Why you take everyone, yes, all 460 guests, outside and take a group picture. I love efficiency!

Up Next...the reception!

Goodwin Lighting - Accent On Cincinnati Furniture

B+M Kortnee Kate Style @ Music Hall

2010-10-22T18:11:00.000-07:00

I have been waiting patiently for weeks for pictures from this wedding!!! There were so many things I loved about it! The details were amazing and really spoke to the bride and groom. Brittany and Mike were, in a word I never use, fabulous. I remember meeting Brittany way back when and her saying "I'm the only girl in my family and we want to do it right". And my, my, we did it right.

This wedding also made me realize how lucky I am that I get to work with some of the most amazing people in the industry. There's something to be said for working with people you know can deliver, and trust me, this team DELIVERS!

Ceremony/Reception: Cincinnati Music Hall {breathtaking!!!}

Florist: Courtenay Lambert Florals

Photographer: Kortnee Kate

Videographer: Studio Z Films

DJ: DJ Toad

Cake: Maribelle {why oh why did you have to close? I'll miss your tiramisu!}

Photobooth: LiveClick

Makeup: Mollie with Brideface

For the sake of keeping this post to one page, I think I'll divide it up into a couple parts. Up first, the couple, wedding party and some flowers.

Hello Britt - you look goooorgous!

Can't breath because this bouquet is so stunning..

Up next...the ceremony!

Cake? Pops? Wedding Cake Pops!

2010-10-16T06:30:00.000-07:00

Almost 4 years ago I stumbled on the then unknown blog of Bakerella. There I saw the adorable cake pops shown below. To the delight of my husband and friends I starting making my own. I made them for any occasion or non-occasion I could think of. They were kind of 'my thing'. {confession - mine never look this good. Duh}

At the time we had the most fabulous clients, Cindy and Brent. At a meeting one day I brought Cindy a cake ball {not 'pop' because there was no stick!} and said wouldn't these be fabulous at your wedding?? Cindy jumped on board and we found a baker that would make them for us. So at Cindy's 9.6.08 wedding we had cake pops wrapped up and placed at every guests' seat.

Now, pop on over to google and search 'cake pop wedding' - wowza! Who would have thought they would become this popular?

So how do you take it one step farther? Hellooooooo a cake ball CAKE! What? YES! You read that correctly. And now let's see an example...

OMG! For realsies? Love it. All cakes shown are by Austin Cake Ball - and they're not the only cake ball bakeries. There's a ton all over the country. Man when I remember how that baker looked at me three years ago, she thought I was nuts! Now I hear they sell them in the shop! I think I should get a cut of every ball sold. Who wants to back me up on that??

So thanks, Bakerella, for pushing us to think outside the cake box. and seriously, make them. They're ah-maz-inggggg {simple but time consuming! My favorite combo is strawberry cake, cherry icing and milk chocolate. Bonus if you put chopped up oreos in the batter!}

And since this is a wedding blog check out the sweetest post ever.

Cincinnati Photobooth - Live Click!

2010-10-14T06:42:00.001-07:00

We all know that photobooths are crazy fun and everyone loves them but have you heard of Cincinnati's own Live Click?? We've done a lot of photobooths and I've never seen a photobooth packed as much as this was. I shouldn't say photo 'booth' because there is no booth. What's super cool about this is there's a backdrop with a REAL PHOTOGRAPHER and a REAL SLR CAMERA, your images are professional quality and the best part? Wait for it....wait for it....

You can PRINT, TEXT, and EMAIL images right at your event!!! Sa-weet! Guest have IMMEDIATE access to the pictures at the wedding. Helloooo facebook!

If that didn't get your attention maybe some images will. Or how about a video? {Since I'm apparently computer-illiterate I can't plug the video right into this post so just click the link and it will take you there!}

+ A {REAL PHOTOGRAPHER and CAMERA} means colorful and properly exposed photos

+ {MULTI-PRINTING} means everyone in the photo gets a copy!
+ Get {BIGGER PRINTS} at 4x6's, or (of course) the olde 2x6 filmstrips as well!
+ Guests recieve their prints through {TEXT and EMAIL} too!
+ Our {LARGER BOOTHS} fit the WHOLE FAMILY! Up to 15 people!
+ {UNLIMITED} prints and sessions
+ Photos are all uploaded to a private {ONLINE GALLERY}
+ {DIGITAL or HANDMADE} scrapbooks

Packages start at $1295.00
So remember Live Click when you're looking to add a little something extra to your event :) And no, they didn't sponsor this post! I'm just super excited because I've done it and it was fun! And no, I'm not going to post those pics... hehe

Hanging Flowers, Lighted Tables and The Party Dress...

2010-10-07T08:09:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that I spend a lot of time jumping around in blog-land. While working on a baby shower for a very special friend I landed on The Party Dress. Hop on over there and explore all the fabulousness that they have.

Like this stunner. Sign me up!

Or this unique twist on lighting your cocktail hour. They recommend candles but that scares me a little so I'd go with LED lights or even a lamp or you have the electrical availability. If you go the candle route make sure the flame is enclosed in glass so a gust of wind doesn't catch the fabric in the flame. That would make for some interesting cocktail hour chat ;)

Centerpiece Thread on Project Wedding

2010-09-21T18:28:00.000-07:00

I stumbled on this great thread in the boards on Project Wedding. If you haven't been to Project Wedding make sure you stop over there. There's a wealth of information and the brides are really responsive to each other.

This particular thread is "centerpieces - how much?" - what bride hasn't asked that? Pop on over and check it out. And if you're feeling extra helpful add your response to the list! And because you cannot post without a picture here's one of the first posts on the board:

"I am doing this! well sorta. I bought the candelabras at hobby lobby for $12.50 a piece, but mine only have three stems i guess you would call it and my florist will put flowers into the candle holders" Shoot - think I need to page Cassie and let her know I just quoted her on my blog???

Print it! Cincinnati Wedding Magazine!

2010-09-19T18:12:00.000-07:00

While I'm sharing the articles in The Knot, I figured I would share our feature in Cincinnati Wedding Magazine. It's from the summer issue so I'm sure you've all seen it (riiiight) but I just love how it's formatted. We can't forget these amazing shots from my girl Kortnee.

You can read the whole article here and you can see more of their pictures here and here! Lots of love Maria and Angelo!

Print it! The Knot Magazine!

2010-09-17T17:57:00.000-07:00

So I was minding my own business at Kroger and saw that there was a new issue of the knot on the stand so I picked it up.....Flipping through....flipping through...WAIT:

Hey! That's L+S! It was a stunning wedding and we're so honored we got to be a part of it! BTW, they just had a beautiful baby boy. Seriously, he's a doll! Congrats you two!

Then I flipped to the front and saw this:

Hey! That's Alicia's wedding! We did vendor referrals for her. Yup, there's our name! Wahoo! Oh - and see the second to last fabulous bridesmaid? That's my college roomie - love you Noey!

AND I just got word that the knot asked to feature one of our weddings from this year. Wahoo! Be on the look out for that in an upcoming issue. I just love little surprises :)

R+M - Inspire Me! {Mark Garber style}

2010-09-15T20:40:00.000-07:00

See I told you I would see you today! I'm working on getting back in your good graces ;)

I have so many moments about weddings that I love {fluffing the dress right as she walks down the aisle, seeing the bride and groom sing to each other during their first dance, etc} but my favorite is finally getting to see how everything comes together. It's like pulling a page right from my head and seeing it materialized. I.love.it. Ryan's wedding was one that we had so many unique ideas that I know it was hard for her to envision how everything would come together. Courtenay and I talked about it for weeks leading up to the day {"I can't wait for Ryan's wedding! It's going to be soooooo fabulous"} and I think we were both pleased with the end product. ok ok, I'm being modest - we loooooooved it! I mean, I know I did! ;)

SO! how did it all come together? I think Mark shows it best in his Inspire Me! board. Mark, I could have have put it together any better - thank you for taking the time to put the elements in one place. I think your clients will love this new feature!

OK enough chit chat.......here you go!

{lounge furniture and LED bar from Accent on Cincinnati - thanks Chris!}

Whatcha think? I'd love to hear your thoughts!

R+M

2010-09-14T16:40:00.000-07:00

I knooooooow.....insert every excuse in the book for the lack of blogging. I swear it's because we've been super slammed in our professional and personal lives. And I PROMISE I have some fabulous posts coming up for you all. I know, I have a lot of making up to do.......

So how about we start off with some teasers from R &M's wedding from Memorial weekend. And Oh-Mi-Goodness let me tell you, it was it amazing. I had the pleasure of working with my lovely and uber-talented friend, Courtenay Lambert and she ROCKED it out. I knew she would be able to deliver on Ryan's modern and funky vision and boy did she.

Meet the rest of our team:
Mark Garber - helloooo greatness. Rick and I so love working with them!
Goodwin Lighting
European Bridal
Classic Confection Cakes
Elite Catering
Prime Time Party Rental
Party Pleasers DJ
Accent on Cincinnati
Carillon Park

Mark and Jennifer did such a great job capturing the emotion of the day. Thanks for posting these!

{I'm such a sucker for headless brides and grooms in black and white. No seriously, I am. I always love these shots! What do you think that says about me???}

How about a little teaser for you? Yes, I think that would be great. I took this picture on my in-laws dinosaur of a camera {But major thanks since I left mine at home! This was not the wedding to forget a camera! Duh!}

Seriously Courtenay?! Looooove it!!!

Check back tomorrow for a details board that is sure to make you gasp. I know I did when I saw it! Then I realized it was from our wedding! Yay - gotta love that! See you soon!

J+P TM Photography Style

2010-08-02T07:45:00.000-07:00

They're heeeere! The J+P's professional pics from TM Photography! Tine, you are amazing!!

Beautiful florals from Courtenay Lambert Florals!

Her Vows, what a fantastic picture Tine!

The first look - so sweet!

This one is now one of my favorites - Cincinnati Cub at night. Gorgeous!

Congratulations you two! Much love!!

TC Wedding: J+P

2010-07-13T06:37:00.000-07:00

I may be a little late posting this BUT here we are :) S+P was another fabulous wedding! What really struck me with this one was just how much lighting can change a space.

Case in point - here's a shot from a wedding we did at the Cincinnati Club in 2009:

And here's two from J+P's:

Yes, I know they are not great but you can get the idea. J's motif was purple paisley and the purple uplights on the drapes totally made the entire space come together. Many thanks to Party Pleasers for providing such great ambiance.

Here's some other shots from the day. I'm waiting {not so} patiently for the uber-fabulous Tine Hoffman to send over some of her pictures. And you know that those will be ah-maz-ing!

I really wish I would have gotten a better pic of the monograms from wedding grafitti. This one is on the marble floor in front of the reception room. We also had them on the doors of the Cincinnati Club and on the landing on the steps. If you want something that everyone will talk about - order one. Seriously, everyone said something when they walked in the room. It's the little details guys!!

Yummy cake from Busken Bakery

Beautiful florals from Courtenay Lambert Florals

Hopefully I'll get some non-grainy pics from Tine here soon so I can properly show this wedding off! My camera just doesn't cut it! Congratulations J+P - we have a great time and are so honored to have been a part of your wedding day! Much love!

oh la la...mais oui!

2010-07-09T14:05:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't get inspired by Chanel? Apparently the love have been popping up in the wedding world as several fabulous gurus have turned to it for inspiration {remember this post?}. I stumbled on this photo shoot today via one of my favorites, Sweet and Saucy. Check out what happens with Jasmine Star, In the Now Weddings and Heavenly Blooms get together. See all the eye candy at Style Me Pretty. Love love love.

C'est Parfait! {I guess I equate Chanel with French. huh, works for me!}

P.S. anyone know how to remove that darn line around the pictures? Or how to put 2 on one line? Annoying.

edit: wahoooo I did it!! Now does anyone know how to center my header again?! ACK!

Riley's Princess Party

2010-06-18T11:43:00.000-07:00

You may remember my inspiration board for my niece's third birthday...well the party has come and went and we had a blast. While it was a lot of work it was so worth it. We typically host our family parties at our house and it's always nice to have everyone here. Since this was going to be our last party until we renovate the kitchen we {ok really just me} wanted to go out with a bang. Plus who's to say I'll get to plan another princess party? Gotta take the reins people!

Anyway - I know this isn't a wedding but I thought I would share some pics from the day. After loading these pics I'm even more intent on getting a new fabulous camera. I've had it! I'm open to your suggestions :)

First meet the Princess rockin' her True Love Found crown {love it!}:

The Entrance:

It's tradition to have something for everyone at the party to sign. In year's past it's been a photo collage - this year I did this canvas so she could hang it in her room and always remember who celebrated her princess birthday with her.

Outside:

repurposed flowers from Steph's wedding ;) Those Courtenay Lambert flowers lasted over a week! Niiiice

Inside dessert table! Mmmmmmm

{oh yeah I made that cake! Woop Woop}

What 3 year old wouldn't want to sit on her own dessert table? Duh!

Lots of love to my family! MWAH!

OK one more because she's so cute.....

{P.S. how embarassed am I that these pics are right above Kortnee's? ::::: sigh camera {and talent!} envy :::::}

S+J Kortnee Kate Style

2010-06-16T15:56:00.000-07:00

OK seriously Steph and Justin? Take this shot and place it on the cover of any uber-fabulous magazine and sell a million copies. Feast your eyes on Kort and Ted's ah-maz-ing talent. Jealous much? Yes, yes I am and they shot my wedding!!

Not that Steph needed any help but Summer Holmes rocked it out. Love you Summer!

The First look - totally Steph and Justin :)

Check out Kort's blog to see even more pics. A HUGE thank you to all our vendors. You guys totally made the day. And so much love to S&J - I'll miss getting a daily dose of your goofiness :)

Our Team:
Courtenay Lambert
French House
Kortnee Kate
Goodwin Lighting
Poeme
DJ Butlers
A Spoon Fulla Sugar
Jeff Thomas Catering

TC Wedding: S+J

2010-05-27T10:48:00.000-07:00

Meet Steph and Justin - are they not adorable? {Yep - totally stole this from facebook!}

I seriously don't know where to begin with this wedding! I worked with Steph and her mom most of the time and it was just such a pleasure. With Steph and Justin in Chicago and her mom in Philadelphia we had our share of challenges - but I've got to say everything came together beautifully. I've been excited for this event for months now and I'm so happy with how it turned out!

I can't say how much I adore the vendors - they totally rocked it out. Oh forget it...I'm just going to let my {not so} fabulous shots speak for themselves. First, meet the 'dream team' as Steph called it. Me? I think I'm going to refer to us as a triple threat. I LOVE working with these ladies!!{and Ted!!}

Photography: The one and only Kortnee Kate

Florist: The one and only Courtenay Lambert

I'll list the rest under their work...

Catering: Jeff Thomas {their staff is so professional and helpful - just a joy to work with}

Location: French House at French Park

I got this idea for the aisle from one of my favorite blogs, The Treasured

Petal - Court's team made it happen! Check out that arch. Loooove!

Amazing paper products from the talented Kristen @ Poeme {rumor is the invite will be in the knot!}

Scrumptious cupcakes from A Spoon Fulla Sugar

Lighting by goodwin lighting - the gobo was in the front entrance of the house

Linens from Sphire Elegance - phenomenal prices and great people

Lounge furniture from Accent on Cincinnati

Can't wait to see the images Kortnee captured. I saw a few on the little camera screen and swooned right then and there. Someone's going to have to hold me up when the final ones are done! Lots of love to the families and our awesome crew. We're so lucky to get to work with people like you!! MWAH!

Beyond the rack..Rue La La..Haute Look..oh my!

2010-05-26T13:21:00.000-07:00

So....sometimes a little personal stuff makes it onto the blog..but hey - it's all in an attempt to be as transparent to my readers as possible.

OK...that's not the reason this time but it sounded good!! hehe Really I just wanted to share my latest online sample site - Beyond The Rack. I've actually found better deals there than on Rue La La and Haute Look.

Heck, join them all! I even joined B Trendie and I don't have a kid!! I just really love a great deal :)

Happy shopping!

:::let me know if you want an invite to b trendie and I'll send you one!:::

Helloooo Gorgeous!

2010-05-22T23:05:00.000-07:00

Stay tuned for more from our day with Court and Kort. Ah-maz-ing. Lots of love S+J!

oh a piece of candy..oh a piece of candy...

2010-05-15T01:43:00.000-07:00

So the candy industry has finally caught on to the 'candy bar' phenomenon and there are now a million options online! Most places have several search options including by type - or let's face it, the most important thing - by color! As I'm purchasing items for my niece's upcoming birthday I thought I would share my vendor of choice. Oh Nuts has a ton of choices, great reviews {I always check out what other people are saying before I commit to something!} and fabulous pricing. If you are looking to do a candy bar for your wedding or even just a party at your home I highly recommend them.

Anyone know what show the name of this post is quoted from?? Happy Weekend :)

{image from Amy Atlas}

Diamonds {or crystals...} are a girls best friend

2010-05-06T06:39:00.000-07:00

Um yes please...wow wow wow...sign me up!

{Rebecca Wood Photography}

Let Them Eat Cake

2010-05-04T18:17:00.000-07:00

Confession: I don't really like wedding shows. I know I know - I should but well, I don't. I do however have a fondness for cake and I'm intrigued on how they come to be. Maybe because I know I have no chance of being able to make them! Plus cake is just yummy.

So when I watched a re-run of food network challenge - fashion cake I was totally amazed by one competitor, Alexandria Pellegrino of Opera Cake Co.

Meet Alexandria - isn't she adorable?

You can read more about her and her company here at the Bridal Cafe. Now onto the ammmmazing eye candy. I totally want one of these cakes for my next birthday. Guess I need to start saving now....