Showing posts with label simply planning. Show all posts
Showing posts with label simply planning. Show all posts

Tuesday, July 15, 2014

TUESDAY THOUGHTS #1: How a Dress Dictates a Wedding

We work with a lot of brides. A lot. And we hear a lot of the same things from brides. One of the most common things a bride says is that she doesn't know the theme of her wedding yet and so isn't ready to get her dress. But au contraire, I beg to differ. Because you know what we also hear a lot of from brides we are working with on planning their wedding? We hear that they have changed the theme or color palette because they finally found their dress. Yup. True story, I promise. The dress dictates the wedding in so many ways. You know that one time I wrote about how you should never pick the shoes first? Well, it's okay if you don't remember... but basically I wrote about how I had my wedges picked out first for my friend's wedding and then it was a major pain in the ass to find the dress. Same concept here. When you have a theme first and then force yourself to find the dress that fits that theme so perfectly it can sometimes feel like the search for a needle in a haystack. And let's be real. Wedding planning is stressful enough. So why not make things easier for yourself. Find your dress, set the mood, plan, plan, and plan. Of course there are some dresses that can really fit with any theme, but I mean there is an exception to every rule. So we will just ignore that for now and focus on some of our favorite dresses and the themes and color palettes they invoke.


1. Rebecca Schoneveld's Rosaline: This dress. Ohhh this dress. We love this dress. It is beautiful, handmade, soft, romantic, feminine, pretty. This lacy dress is made for the preppy, Southern, traditional and romantic bride. Her guests will ooh and aah at the lace illusion low-cut back and beautiful lace train on her gown while she walks down the aisle to her Southern preppy gentleman rocking an adorable bow tie. The couple will say their vows outside of a barn under a giant Oak tree as her hair billows in the wind. Her color palette is filled with navy blue, peach and coral shades. Her bouquet is perfect and classic with a touch of whimsy. Her guests will be drinking out of mason jars and Georgia peaches will serve as an extra touch of peach. Her friends and family will know they are at a wedding filled with class and elegance.


2. Sarah Seven's Blushing: Another dress we kind of are ridiculously obsessed with. Not just because it's pink, but of course even more because it's pink. This soft organza dress is made for the modern funky bride who loves being stylish in her own unique way. This bride's guests will be excited and surprised upon arrival as they see the bride in her funky attire. The ceremony will take place in a warehouse setting with lots of funky floral details. Her color palette compliments her dress without matching it and is filled with bold yellows, gold and every other color of the rainbow. Guests will enjoy a reception filled with unusual hanging installations, quirky mismatched chairs, and succulents. Her friends and family will know they are at a wedding where the unusual is to be expected.  


3. Elaya Vaughn's Maria: And yet another of our favorite dresses. This ballgown is the softest ballgown you will ever touch in your entire life and is made for the glamorous bride who loves being in the spotlight and is sometimes a little over the top. Her bridesmaids will stand next to her at the altar fashionably in black sequin gowns with flowers in hues that match the bride's lipstick shade. Her color palette will be dramatic and bold with shades of reds and gold with black. Guests will enjoy a luxurious cocktail hour among plush couches filled with sequins and pillows. Every last detail of her wedding will be exquisite and extravagant. Her family and friends will know they are at a fete that will never be forgotten. 

Which look is your favorite?

{Photo Credits} [Preppy + Navy] Rosaline dress by Rebecca Schoneveld, available at Ivory and Beau // Groom via Spotted Photography, bow tie by Starboard Clothing, Boutonniere by Bloom Box Design // Venue via Green Wedding Shoes, Photography by Josh Elliot // Bouquet via Style Me Pretty, Photography by Annabella Charles, Flowers by Haute Horticulture, Styling by Social Grace Events // Peach drinks via The Perfect Palate // Cake via Wedding Chicks, Photography by Landon Jacobs, Cake by Ally and Eloise // Bow Ties via Green Wedding Shoes, Photography by Ryan Ray, Bow Ties handmade by Palm Cottage Goods // Tablescape via  Green Wedding Shoes, Photography by Danielle Poff Photography [Funky + Yellow] Blushing Dress by Sarah Seven, available at Ivory and Beau // Invitations via Oh So Beautiful Paper, Photography by Hoopla Love, Stationary by Rolodex // Shoes via Green Wedding Shoes, Photography by Bayly and Moore, Shoes by Jeffrey Campbell // Reception via Green Wedding Shoes, Photography by Kate Ignatowski, Flowers by Mimosa Flower Design Studio // Bouquet via Ruffled, Photography by Orange Turtle, Flowers by Natural Flair  // Ceremony via Green Wedding Shoes, Photography by Phil Chester, Greenery by The Green Dandelion [Gold Glam] Ballgown by Elaya Vaughn, available at Ivory and Beau // Bridesmaid dress and ceremony via Green Wedding Shoes, Photography by Aaron Young, Florals by Inviting Occasion // Reception and Cake via Green Wedding Shoes, Photography by Aaron Young, Cake by Sweet and Saucy shop // Invitations via 100 Layer Cake, Photography by Style It Photography, Stationary by Bright Room Studio // Shoes via Floridian Weddings, Photography by Starfish Studios

Friday, May 23, 2014

SIMPLY PLANNING: {How to be a Guest Series #1} What to Wear

It's been forever since I've really sat down and taken the time to write a long blog post, but I woke up this morning and just really felt like it was time to get back into it. So here it is... my first blog post about being a guest at a wedding. The inspiration for this post? I get to attend a wedding this June in Hood River, Oregon as a guest. Seriously guys this is a huge deal. I can't even explain my excitement at getting to be an actual guest and not be working. Don't get me wrong, I absolutely love my job and love working weddings but of course every once in a while I think, gee, look at how much fun those guests are having... all reunited from all over the United States... dancing together... laughing together... goofing off together... I want to be doing that. I am good at doing that tooooooo. Let me do that pleaaaaaaase. Can I? Just once? I promise just once will be enough?? And oh yeahh my dream came true. So here it is. My chance to go to a wedding as a guest and have a great time and just enjoy myself... and in an absolutely beautiful location too.

So that brings me to this... what does a guest wear to a wedding? Here are my top 5 choices from Rent the Runway:



My 5 top tips for picking out your wedding guest attire: 

1. Do not wear red. Just don't. Some may think its an old rule but I say just don't do it. 
2. Do not wear white... or any variation of white (ivory, tan, beige, champagne nude, you get the point.) Champagne is the new white. Well, mostly ivory is. And trust me, you don't want to blend in with the color of the bride. Even be careful when considering a pale gold dress... we have several pale gold shimmery gowns at our shop and the last thing you want is for the bride to be rocking something like that and you are matching the bride.
3. You are not going to a club. Keep it classy. No titties hanging out, no shorter than short dresses with your booty hanging out. Just don't do it. 
4. No crazy prints. Again, I just don't feel like it is appropriate to be standing out. Period.
5. Dress for the setting + the venue (or at least what you know of it.) Insert tip to bride + groom: use your wedding website to describe to guests the aesthetic of the wedding... whether its a casual low country boil or a black tie formal event, they at least deserve to have somewhat of an idea. I can promise you I would not wear the same dress to a low country boil where I will be shoving my face with corn on the cob + potatoes as I would to a formal event where I will be sipping fancy cocktails.     

Moral of the Story: You don't want to stick out in any way. This is not your day. Just like you wouldn't want a wedding guest stealing the spotlight on your day. So be courteous, wear something fabulous and still look great without trying to be the center of attention. 

If you liked reading this post then stay tuned! I'll be blogging throughout my experience as a guest at Terra + Justin's wedding this summer and including all sorts of fun tips for being a guest as well as sharing all the fun details of my trip!! Also, follow us on Instagram from daily posts of pretties + sneaks into my vacation!!!!! Happy Friday ya'll! 

Monday, September 16, 2013

{Guest Post} SIMPLY PLANNING: What to Consider When Planning a Wedding

Today I have a special guest post from Isabelle Riley, a freelance writer who works at Ballara Receptions in Australia! So here's an article from her on things to consider when planning a wedding plus since she is from Australia I figured it would be cool to add in some awesome Australian wedding inspiration with pictures all from Australia. Also... what's even more cool about this is that I have an Australian intern coming to shadow me for 2 weeks starting this Tuesday!! Come back tomorrow for an intro blog post on my shadow, also named Nicole! Anyway, hope you enjoy today's post, learn a few things about wedding planning + like always enjoy some wedding pretties!


What to Consider when planning a wedding

 Your wedding day is something most people dream off their whole lives. The dress, the ceremony, the flower arrangements, the reception; there is no doubt it is a huge day and this can place a lot of pressure on your relationship, not exactly the ideal situation to happen before the wedding!

Considering this, we have put together a few tips to keep in mind when planning your big day. First of all, take your time; it’s not a race. Sometimes you need to plan a wedding quickly and in those circumstances you have no choice, but if you don’t have a set date within the next 6 months, take your time with the planning and give yourself at least a year to plan everything out. This way you have time to plan and save up for all the things you really want! One of the first things you should plan is the number of guests, this will determine most of the other aspects of the day, most importantly the ceremony and reception locations. You don’t want to choose a place that is too big or you could lose the atmosphere; many locations offer a variety of rooms or the option to join rooms, like Ballara Receptions, so you have a few options when it comes to guest numbers.

Consider having a “first look” photo, this is photo that is taken before the big day starts; you organise with your photographer and fiance to meet in a scheduled place before the ceremony where you and your partner meet for the first time and have the whole thing recorded. It is probably the most honest moment to be captured on your wedding day, away from all the guests and expectations, it is quite a beautiful way to capture the emotions of the day.

 Next, try to let things go. Of course you want to organise the day like crazy, and most things will have to be organised because you are catering to so many people, but when there are moments that are slightly unplanned, don’t panic. Acknowledge that things will go wrong and be prepared to let them be.

Finally, if you can afford it, consider hiring a professional to help organise your big day. A lot of couple choose to do it themselves to help save on costs, but if money is no option, a professional could help reduce a lot of stress!

Thanks Isabelle for the post on wedding planning with tips! xo, Nicole Rene

{Photo Credits} Bride on Swing via 100 Layer Cake, photography by Feather and Stone // Horse via Feather and Stone // Bouquet via Style Me Pretty, photography by Life in Still // Ceremony Decor via Ruffled, photography by Erin and Tara // Cake Pops via Feather and Stone // Triangle Garland via 100 Layer Cake, photography by Byron Loves Fawn // Couple in Boat via 100 Layer Cake, photography by Debra Eby

Thursday, August 29, 2013

SIMPLY PLANNING: Savannah Destination Wedding

Savannah, Georgia. suh-VAN-uh. "Slow-vannah." Savannah. 4 years ago if you had asked me if I wanted to go to Savannah, Georgia I would have said "uh... why? What's Savannah? I've been to Atlanta. That was uhh.. a big city, kinda like Portland but 5 million times more humid and had lightning and thunder and mosquitoes and hush puppies." You think I'm joking? I'm not. When my then-boyfriend now fiance told me he was getting re-stationed in Savannah, Georgia my response was uhhhhhhhhhhhh. But then we drove cross country together in a huge U-haul to move him out here and it was love at first sight. I was enchanted by Savannah. I wanted to move right then and there. Forget finishing college, I wanted to be in Savannah. Well, okay so I did finish college and was patient before moving to Savannah. And now this enchanting, beautiful, historic, romantic city is where I call home. And to this day I still love Savannah. But no... this post is not just about my love for Savannah. This post is about why Savannah is an amazing wedding destination. And of course like always, features lots of images to keep things interesting! Plus, this time all the images are from Simply Savannah Event's weddings! Yay! Happy Thursday!!!


1. Southern Fixins: shrimp + grits, crab cakes, oysters, low country boils, fried chicken, okra, catfish, collard greens, hush puppies, corn bread, tea sandwiches, gosh the list goes on. Savannah is known for it's food. There are some awesome caterers who can make some fantastic things and not just that... but the restaurants are delicious. Some of my favorite places are Bernie's Oyster Shack for shucking oysters, Tubby's on the River for crab cakes and hush puppies, Mrs. Wilkes for some good ol' fashioned Southern cookin', and Sweet Potatoes for some fried catfish.


2. Historic Roots [and venues...]: Savannah is filled with rich history and awesome venues where you can have your wedding that are also filled with rich history. Just imagine getting married in a historic blacksmith railroad shop at the Georgia State Railroad Museum, or a mansion built in 1882 at Brockington House, or in an old horse stable at Savannah Station, or in Georgia's oldest military fort that overlooks the Savannah River at Old Fort Jackson, or the oldest inn in Savannah now haunted by a heartbroken woman who committed suicide at 17Hundred90... and the list goes on. There are so many possibilities of venues where you can get married that are filled with history and are not your typical wedding venue. Plus, with all the history in Savannah there are a multitude of tours, from walking tours with Savannah Dan, to Ogelthorpe Trolley tours, or how about a horse carriage tour? Whatever you choose you can't go wrong and with all the options there are plenty of tourist attractions so that out-of-town guests can make an entire vacation out of your wedding. 


3. Spanish moss, beautiful marshes, historic parks with trees + fountains, sandy beaches... do I really need to go into detail on this? Seriously though. Savannah is beautiful. Enough said. Oh, but you don't believe me? Well, it was voted #5 on TLC's "Top 10 Beautiful Destination Wedding Locales in the United States," and it is on the list of Destination Wedding Magazine's "Best Wedding Destinations in the United States," and American Profile's "Top 10 Wedding Destinations," Also, Jekyll Island, a short drive South of Savannah, made Beach Weddings by The Knot's list of "10 Best Beaches for a Wedding." Seriously, you don't need me to tell you... this tells it all. Because I mean out of who knows how many cities there are in the United States... Savannah has time and time again made the top 10 and it's for a reason. So um, obviously it's one of the best. 


4. It's a romantic city: This city just oozes romance. Probably all the beautiful scenery, historic buildings, romantic restaurants, again with the beautiful Spanish moss trees, and the mysterious marshes, and the beaches. It's just so romantic. Such a perfect city to fall in love. Chris and I moved here in 2011 and we didn't just fall in love with Savannah but we fell more in love with each other. Obviously, since after a year of us living in Savannah he proposed. Probably wouldn't have happened if we still lived in the city-where-it-never-stops-raining.


5. Creative minds: Last but most certainly not least... there are some seriously creative wedding vendors in Savannah who love to get creative and do some crazy things. I have been so honored to get to work with some of the best wedding vendors in Savannah to come up with some really creative and different designs. Above are some of the weddings and styled shoots SSE has been involved in with some of my favorite vendors in Savannah!! So no I'm not saying you have to choose me as your event designer... but if you are interested in some of my designs + love hanging things from ceilings, chandeliers, wooden posts, you name it then you best contact me!! ;)

Anyway, there's my two cents on why Savannah rocks. Happy wedding city hunting all you engaged couples!!

Xoxo, Nicole Rene

{Photo Credits} [#1] All food images from Katy + Drew's Wedding, photography by Izzy Hudgins  except shrimp cocktail from Courtney + Harry's Wedding, photography by Rachel Browne [#2] Elizabeth + Joe Under Bethesda Arch, photography by Dragonfly Photo // Arlette + Juan, photography by Izzy Hudgins // Old Fort Jackson via Izzy Hudgins // Railroad Museum via Courtney + Harry's Wedding, photography by Rachel Browne [#3] Nicole + Chris, photography by Alexis Sweet // Maureen + Nick, photography by Jade + Matthew // Kristen + Mike's Wedding in Forsyth Park, photography by Tessa Marie // Boho Beach, photography by Alexis Sweet // Whitefield Chapel Shoot, photography by Lone Pine [#4] Courtney + Harry, photography by Rachel Browne // Arlette + Juan, photography by Izzy Hudgins // Katy + Drew, photography by Izzy Hudgins // Lindsey + Blake, photography by Traci Arney // Elizabeth + Joe, photography by Dragonfly Photo // Nicole + Chris, photography by Alexis Sweet [#5] Modern Valentine's Day, photography by Izzy Hudgins // Bride + Groom with Garland, photography by Izzy Hudgins // Roses, photography by Shannon Christopher // Pom Garland via Katy + Drew's Wedding, photography by Izzy Hudgins // Antler Tree via Whitefield Chapel Shoot, photography by Lone Pine // 'Just Married' via Katy + Drew, photography by Izzy Hudgins // Paper Flower Backdrop, photography by Andi Mans

Tuesday, August 13, 2013

{Guest Post} SIMPLY PLANNING: Tips for your Wedding Day

Today I have a special guest post for you guys all about how to have an amazing wedding day! And of course I had to add in some fun pictures... Hope you guys enjoy!! [Note: My additions are in light gray.]

The days leading up to your wedding can bring an array of emotions ranging from excitement to fear. From the floral arrangements to the marital ceremony and reception timeline, you're naturally going to worry about every aspect of your wedding as even the most minute details can affect the outcome of your special day. No need to fret‚ you can avoid a major wedding day meltdown by remaining calm, focused, and organized.

Even if you have a mental list of all the last minute items that must be completed before you exchange vows, there still may be elements that have been accidentally overlooked or issues that arise unexpectedly. Although you and your wedding planner may have all your bases covered, you should still be prepared for gaffs that could put a damper on your special day. Because even the most seasoned bride and groom can forget certain wedding day necessities, here are a few tips that will ensure your day goes off without the wrong hitch.

Map Out Your Wedding Day 

Although you've gone through the rehearsal of your marriage ceremony and reception and are sure you have prepared for anything that may occur, you should still develop a detailed schedule of your big day from start to finish. It's best if you create a list of tasks that need to be done and when each item should be completed. You should also include a timetable which designates when each activity of the day begins. Remember to include essentials that are needed for the day, such as your 77 Diamonds wedding rings, and take an inventory of the accessories and party favors that will be used during your ceremony and at the reception. This list should be provided to everyone in your wedding party and those involved in its planning.

[ABOUT THE AUTHOR]: Courtney Smallwood is a freelance writer that creates posts on everything wedding and beauty. She thinks that getting ready for your big day is one of the most important things you can do - along with looking fabulous! She is married to her husband, Thomas and has 2 children.

I love the idea of going one step further and having schedules for bridesmaids, groomsmen, and guests... especially if you are planning a destination wedding where there are multiple events in different locations. One of my favorite ideas is to have the wedding day itineraries in welcome bags passed out at hotels where you have set up room blocks. It's also a nice idea to add some little goodies into the welcome bags. For example, if you're having a destination in Savannah why not incorporate some goodies that are native to Savannah, such as pralines or some treats from Savannah Bee Company?! Here are some awesome examples of some fun + creative wedding day itineraries!


Hope for the Best, But Prepare for the Worst 

Even the most organized, well-planned weddings can go wrong. Whether it be something minuscule like a mix up with the food being served or a larger catastrophe such as a clothing malfunction, things don't always go according to plan, therefore you must expect the unexpected and take any unanticipated mishaps in stride. Guard against wedding day blunders with an emergency wedding-day kit stocked with supplies such as hair accessories, safety pins, a small sewing kit and stain remover, so you'll have everything you need to fix any calamity‚ no matter the magnitude.

If you're lucky enough to have me as your planner then you won't need to worry about having a wedding day emergency kit... but if not... look at how adorable these Bride + Bridesmaids Emergency Kits are from Pinch Provisions? Can I buy one just to have for everyday emergencies? Seriously though. They had me sold at glitter + polka dots. 




Relax Before Your Special Day

As you are already aware, preparing for your wedding can be both stressful and time consuming, so it's essential that you maintain your composure during the days leading up to your nuptials and on your big day. Keep in mind that your wedding is a celebration; therefore you should be bursting with joy, not overwhelmed and flustered. Although you may be too excited to relax, you should try your best to spend the day before you walk down the aisle resting or indulging in activities you enjoyed before the pre-wedding frenzy. Let your maid of honor or another member of your bridal party take the reins and deal with any remaining duties while you pamper yourself.

[About the Author] Courtney Smallwood is a freelance writer that creates posts on everything wedding and beauty. She thinks that getting ready for your big day is one of the most important things you can do - along with looking fabulous! She is married to her husband, Thomas and has 2 children.

Well, I hope ya'll enjoyed this guest post reading about tips for relaxing before your wedding day! I think it's so important that you allow yourself to pamper yourself and chill out because your wedding will be over in a blink of an eye and so making sure you make the best of every minute is so crucial! And of course having some ridiculously amazing looking stationary pieces + emergency kits never hurt anything. 

{Photo Credits} [Timeline] 'While You're Here' via Style Me Pretty, photography by Chaz Cruz // Itinerary on Books via Brooklyn Bride, photography by Brandon Kidd // Winter Wedding Itineraries via Style Me Pretty, stationary by Paisley Quill, photography by Kate Mathis/Martha Stewart Weddings // Fold-out Itineraries via Molly Jacques Illustration, stationary by Paisley Quill // Palm Springs Welcome Bags via Green Wedding Shoes, stationary by Yes, Dear Studio, photography by Honey Honey // Seahorse Totes via Style Me Pretty, photography by Style Art Life // Minimergency Kits for Brides + Bridesmaids via BHLDN // Minimergency Kit via Pinch Provisions
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