DESIGNER REVEAL #5: Faith Thornburg

Hope you all had a fabulous Christmas!!! We are back today sharing more of our designers that will be available in our shop after the opening on January 11th!!! Anyway, going to SCAD, I heard about Faith from my beading teacher, Sam Norgard. (Mrs. Norgard is the one who got me obsessed with beading, so a huge part of my thanks is to her!) Anywho, Sam told me about Faith, so I checked out her designs prior to opening the shop. So when we went to NYC to look at dresses, I knew I wanted to check her out. Her dresses are beautiful, and the fact that we get to support another SCAD Alumni is so important to me, I love supporting local talent.

xoxo

A

{Photo Credits} Faith Thornburg via Wedding Row Charlotte // Whitaker Gown via Faith Thornburg // Styled Shoot via Carolyn A Events, Cake by Anne Kathleen,  // Image from market via Nicole's Iphone

SIMPLY BRIDAL: Bohemian Style

Today we are so excited to be participating in our first styled shoot with Teresa of Memories n More! I first met Teresa through previous owner, Layla, and have had the pleasure of doing a few weddings with her! Heather of Beyond Beautiful is going to be doing hair and makeup for her gorgeous sister + my friend's little 2 year old girl! Also, we are collaborating with The Creative Porcupine, who is designing menus + other fun printables!! I am so excited to have Amanda helping us with some stuff... we went to the same Making Things Happen Conference but I'm not sure if we officially met, but in the past few weeks I've kept noticing her amazing designs on Facebook and thought hmmm, maybe I should ask her if she'd be interested in collaborating with Adrienna and I and boy was I excited when she was excited to be apart of our vision!!!! So thank you Amanda! You are amazing for doing this all so last minute!!! Adrienna + I have had so much fun curating all the pieces for our bohemian modern shoot. I have been daydreaming of doing a shoot with a boho flair since well... since I became obsessed with wedding blogs in general. So I am so excited for this! And even more so because this shoot is going to be the first ever to feature dresses that will be for sale in Ivory + Beau!!!!!! Follow us on Instagram at @ivoryandbeau for sneak peaks of these beautiful gowns!! We chose 2 of our favorites that fit the theme from 2 of our designers we will sell. So for today's blog post I thought it would be fitting to post some boho bride inspiration. Enjoy the pretties!!

{Photo Credits} Bride by Altar via Jeremy Harwell // Bride with Large Bouquet via Style Me Pretty, photography by Jessica Claire // Bride with Bouquet + Flower in Hair via 100 Layer Cake, photography by Carina Skrobecki // Bride with Heart Bow + Arrow via Style Me Pretty, photography by Marianne Wilson // Bride with Halo via Style Me Pretty, photography by Odalys Mendez // Sash via Green Wedding Shoes, photography by Vicki Grafton // Bride in Woods via Green Wedding Shoes, photography by Marissa Maharaj

SIMPLY BRIDAL: NYC Bridal Market + New Savannah Bridal Boutique

Golly it's been hard for me to get around to blogging this past week for 2 reasons: 1. we have been so crazy busy finishing up last minute details for the October weddings + 2. no wifi at my house means no late night blogging sessions. But anyway, I am back now writing this post now on quite possibly the most fun business trip ever. It's funny when you are in college and you envision what your life will be like and then 4 years later you're somewhere completely different then you could have ever imagined doing something you would have never ever thought you would ever be doing. That's how this business trip was for me. It was like I was living in a dream. This is not real life. I am not really in New York City. I am not really talking to some of the best bridal designers in the world. I am not really about to buy not one, not two, not even four, five or ten bridal dresses but actually thirty. I am not staying at a ridiculously trendy hotel where there is a robot that stores your luggage for you. I could continue this list with other things that didn't feel real but I don't want to bore you too much. Soo... anyway, I don't know if Adrienna felt the same way, but that was definitely how I felt, like this was not really happening and like this was not possibly my life but someone else's life I'm just watching from above. But the thing is... this is real life. And we were talking with some of the best bridal designers in the world. And we were about to buy about thirty bridal gowns. And there actually was a robot that stored our luggage for us...

While at Bridal Fashion Week we met with several bridal designers, out of which we chose our four favorite fits for Ivory + Beau. I am not going to reveal our designers yet but we know ya'll will love them just as much as we do. These ladies are so talented and so incredible. All in all we will have about 40 dresses to start with, 4 designers + 5 collections along with 2-3 accessory designers (that is in the works now). So like always, I love to share sneak peeks of what is to come without revealing everything! Here are some snapshots of our time in NYC! Hope you enjoy!

{Photo Credits} Nicole + Adrienna's iPhones

SIMPLY BRIDAL: Tone It Up Bridal

Oh my gosh ya'll. I hurt. I mean like really really really bad. Like REALLY BAD. Like SO SO SO BAD. Like so bad it hurts to SIT. It hurts to WALK. It hurts to just BE AWAKE. No for real. Okay, maybe it's just like that for me because I took a break from working out. See I'm kind of like that. I'll go on a workout binge, so to say, where I work out super intense everyday, get back to my happy size + shape then I'm like okay, I'm good for a few weeks. Then I'll start it all over again. Needless to say starting my workout binge again right before going on a vacation and having to sit on a 6 hour flight and then having to walk around crowded airports luging all my carry-on bags was probably the worst idea ever. But hey, we can't all be smart all the time, right?

Anyway, my friend, Felicia, shared this with me the other day on my Facebook page and I checked it out, tried it, died a little... but I guess it feels so good after right? I mean so bad? I mean ouch. So I just had to share this with all you brides, bridesmaids, females, anyone really that wants a little kick in the butt to jumpstart their fitness or wants to get back into shape for an event... say a wedding... I'm sure some of you have already heard about these girls, probably on Pinterest, or Facebook, or somewhere... I mean they really are pretty amazing at marketing themselves online. I've seen their stuff for some while now and have been telling myself, alright next workout binge I'll try that out. And try I did. And die I did. Haha, well not really but kind of. I just dropped my room key on the floor and when leaning over to pick it up I literally groaned it hurt so bad. I mean this is embarrassing and awkward and at moments like this I am so God gave me a sense of humor and the ability to laugh at myself.

So now it's your turn to try. The thing I think I love most about this workout is that 1.) you can do it in the comfort of your own home; 2.) you can watch Revenge, Shameless, Modern Family or whatever other TV show you have been meaning to catch up on and it doesn't take too much brain power so you can focus on the show; 3.) no cardio? heck yes. cardio is my least favorite ever, unless I'm doing Zumba... So I challenge all you brides, bridesmaids, females out there. And then please don't make fun of me since I am obviously out of shape and this probably won't hurt anywhere near as much for some of you out there... but still... it's a great workout either way. AND at least I have an excuse for why it hurts so bad... my excuse is I was like oh this is an easy workout, I'll do 3 reps of 30 for each workout. And so I did. And so I hurt. Hurts real bad. Anyway, click here for the full workout!

Anybody hurt as bad as me?? Next up for me to try?? The Wedding Slimdown by Tone It Up. I'll report back. Probably in even more pain to be honest. But beauty is pain eh? So uhhh happy workout brides to be!

{Photo Credits} Tone It Up // Tone It Up [Disclaimer: this is not an endorsed post... just one of those things I felt like it was best to share. Share the pain right?]

SIMPLY YOU: Let's Get Married in 2013!

So... you're engaged and you're getting married in 2013 eh? And you don't have a wedding planner yet? Are you pulling your hair out yet? If so... e-mail me here. Even if you are not pulling hair out, well still... e-mail me here. We want to be a part of your big day! And we will do our very best to make sure you do not pull your hair out ever. Because who wants to get married with hair chunks missing? I know I sure don't... So anyway, I have been spending the last 5 or so hours prepping some budget analyses for some clients, and doing some pinning for some decor inspiration, and contacting lots and lots of vendors, and the list goes on... I am guessing the majority of you brides out there don't have hours a day to do this stuff because you probably have a job and work and I am guessing it is not super easy to find time to contact vendors and get quotes and compare prices, etc.? Well, that's where we help out! We do all the hard nitty gritty work so that you can lay back, relax, enjoy your engagement while we do the research for you. What better way to plan a wedding than only focus on the fun stuff... (i.e. pinning hundreds of hundreds of pictures for your event designer to look through, choosing your flowers, having a bachelorette party and bridal shower, cake tastings, heck yes....!) Anyway, we would love to hear from you today! We have several package options and are always willing to customize our packages + prices to better fit your needs. And we do offer flower services for smaller weddings as well!!

Anyway, now to the pretty part of today's blog post... here are some wedding trends I am crushing over right now & am eagerly hoping to see at some of our 2013 weddings!!!

1. Sparkles, sparkles, more sparkles, sparkles on your bridesmaid's dresses?! Yes please. There is nothing I don't love about this look. And I am not going to lie, I would not mind being your bridesmaid if you let me rock one of these dresses... so friends out there who get engaged soon... take note.

2. Unique backdrops. I love photobooths but what I love even more are the makeshift photobooths with a tripod & a camera timer that have lovely fun backdrops in your color palette that we can and will gladly make for you using fabric, sequins, etc. Or how about a lovely backdrop for a dessert table? The possibilities are endless + Simply Savannah Events wants to make one or two or maybe even four of these for you because after the event I will probably be found decorating my entire house with them...

3. Who needs a tiara when you can have a sparkly fun tiara? I want one...

4. Lights = soft + romantic ambience. I think this is something that can really add gorgeous ambience to a wedding. Especially since most venues only have overhead lighting, which let's be real... is not the most romantic. I also think cafe lighting is gorgeous outside. Think... dancing under the stars but the stars are 347239852 miles closer. (Note: that is not a scientifically accurate number.)

5. This picture kills 2 birds with 1 stone. Glitter/sequins/sparkle + dessert tables. There is just something about glitter/sequins/sparkle that mesmerizes me. I love it. The more the better. And I don't think you can get anymore glittery than having a glitter tablecloth. Also, dessert tables. I love this too. Probably because I love sweets + desserts so much. But also because they are just so pretty. And I like pretty things. If I didn't love desserts so much then I would say it is painful to watch them get destroyed by people eating every last bite. But fortunately the sugar high makes it all better.

6. Glorified lounge areas at the reception that are cooler than my living room will ever be but only because my man insists on having a ceiling fan instead of a chandelier. But really, how neat are these lounge areas? Such a nice way to set up a reception space that will encourage guests to spend more time mingling and less time sitting at their seats eating next to people they have never met before.

7. This isn't a trend, just something I know I will see at all my weddings this year... and that is a whole lot of love. Forget the stress because you've hired me & that's what I do, I take care of the stressful stuff so that you don't have to. So, on your wedding day you better focus on your hot hunk of a man at your wedding... oh yeah and don't forget all your friends + family that flew miles and miles to see you get married to the love of your life. ;)

Alright, so who's ready? Let's get married ladies + gents! Contact me for today for more information on our wedding packages!  

{Photo Credits} 'Let's Get Married' by Nicole Rene // Bridesmaids Dresses via Wedding Chicks, photography by Jemma Keech // Backdrop via Style Me Pretty, photography by Valo Photography // Tiara via Kiss the Groom // Cafe Lighting via Ruffled Blog, photography by Joe+Kathrina // Dessert Table via Style Me Pretty, photography by Haley Sheffield // Groom with Heart via unknown (could only find Tumblr links... if you have link please send to me at simplysavannahevents@yahoo.com!)

SIMPLY BRIDAL: New Year's Eve

Thanks for visiting my Friday Fancies link-up with AV at Long Distance Loving! Today's look is my dream New Year's Eve wedding outfit. I love this sparkly sequin gown from Rent the Runway and think there is nothing more perfect than something covered in glitter for New Years. I personally am a firm believer that you can never wear too many sequins or shiny things when it's New Years Eve & I think mixing a sequin black clutch with this gown would be so perfect for a wedding ringing in the New Year!

It is so crazy to think of all that has happened this past year. Last January my boyfriend and I were looking for homes to rent so that we could take the next step and move in together. I was working part-time at the bridal shop and had only worked at one wedding so far the previously year. We had just one pet, my dog, Winnie. The year flew by and in 2012 Layla and I helped marry 24 couples. It was an insanely busy and exciting year. Some months we had a wedding every single weekend. In September... Layla found out her husband was moving to New York and I had a big decision to make. I can still remember the first time I consulted with my dad and I can still remember him telling me there is no way I can run a company. I got off the phone upset and defeated and decided that I would do it anyway. Lo and behold he called me a few hours later to apologize and said that he had full confidence that I could do some great things and he would support me in my endeavors. In October it became official and I got underway trying to change some things with the brand and make it my own. Now as the year ends I find myself getting excited and anxious for all the weddings next year! It has been so fun getting to know the couples and working with them to help make their vision a reality. A lot of things have changed in my life, but a lot of things have also stayed the same. I still work at a bridal shop part-time selling bridal gowns. But now I have lots more to talk to them about. I still spend hours and hours blogging and on Pinterest finding wedding inspiration. But now I have weddings that I can put my ideas to use for. I still go to antique stores weekly to look for treasures. But now I have a reason to buy all those vintage dessert stands. I still have my dog Winnie. But now we also have a kitten (tiger/monster/crazed animal) named Tigger. Lots of changes and so much that I am thankful for! I appreciate everyone that takes the time to read my blog and follow my company as we grow! I am so excited to see where 2013 takes this company... and be expecting lots of changes!!! (hint: I have officially hired someone to do the branding for me so there will be no more random logo changes in the middle of the night & everything will have a cohesive and unified look that I am confident you all will love!)

Anyway... now to the Friday Fancies gorgeous bridal outfit inspiration for a New Years wedding!!!

{Shopping Guide} Badgley Mischka Glitz Gown via Rent the Runway // Metallic Coil Bracelet via White House Black Market // Red Valentino Paillettes Bow Bag via ShopBop // Flounce 'Jules' Pump via Nordstrom

SIMPLY BRIDAL: Friday Fancies Silver

Thanks for checking out my Friday Fancies link-up with AV at Long Distance Loving. If this is your first time checking out my blog you'll see that my Friday Fancies is always based on a bridal outfit since I am wedding planner in the Savannah, Georgia area! I thought it was a fun twist on the Friday Fancies series. I also blog over at Nicole Rene Design so you may have seen some of my Friday Fancies link ups there before! Anyway, thanks for checking it out! Today I was loving this gown with the beaded details around the neck and knew I wanted to center my bridal outfit around it! Aren't those earrings also gorgeous? 

{Shopping Guide} Marchesa Silk Column Gown with Tulle Overlay via ShopBop // Kenneth Jay Lane Waterfall Earrings via ShopBop // Kenneth Jay Lane Pave Ball Cuff via ShopBop // Diane von Furstenburg Lytton Small Metallic Clutch via ShopBop // Glint Radiance Pump via Nordstrom

SIMPLY BRIDAL: Friday Fancies Fall Wedding

Thanks for stopping by my Friday Fancies link-up with AV from Long Distance Loving! Over here at Simply Savannah, my Friday Fancies are a little different since this is a wedding blog, so all the outfits are wedding ideas! Here are two fun fall bridal ideas that I absolutely love!!!

{Photo Credits} Plaid Shirt with Dress via Ciara Richardson // Dress with Rain Boots via Jacksonville Bride

SIMPLY BRIDAL: Inbal Dror Backless Gowns

I have had a designer crush on Inbal Dror ever since I discovered the site a few months back & posted this on my old blog, Nicole Rene Design.

Designer Crush: Inbal Dror

{Photo Credits} All Images via Inbal Dror

SIMPLY BRIDAL: Friday Fancies Monotone

For today's link-up with AV at Long Distance Loving, the theme is a Monotone outfit. I instantly knew I wanted my color to be a shade of pink, & I absolutely love this light rose pink shade. I think it is so soft & gorgeous. Also, I wanted to choose pink since this weekend Simply Savannah will have a booth at the Brides Against Breast Cancer bridal show in Savannah, Georgia! When I heard about this event I knew I wanted to get involved because it is something that has really affected me in my life. My mom, Sandy, lost her life to breast cancer at the age of 35 less than 6 months after I was born. It has been such a difficult thing to grow up not knowing my mom or anything about her. To wonder if I am anything like her or even if she would be proud of the person I have become today. It makes my heart hurt a little when I see brides so close with their moms on their wedding days & knowing I will never get that. So as you can see this is such a close-to-home cause that I want to be involved in & I really thought this would be such a great and fun way to contribute in a really meaningful way... So I hope all of you in Savannah will make it out to the Brides Against Breast Cancer event this weekend to see me! I will only be there a few hours Saturday since we have a wedding, but will be there all day on Sunday with some home baked cupcakes!! 

Friday Fancies #2: Monotone

In Loving Memory of Sandra E Schwalge

March 3rd, 1955-May 11th, 1990

{Shopping Guide} Zac Posen Sweetheart Mermaid Dress via ShopBop // Rose Chevron Drops via BaubleBar // Elie Saab 'Le Parfum' de Parfum No. 3 via Nordstrom // Tory Burch Envelope Clutch via Saks Fifth Avenue // Rose Pyramid Bangle via BaubleBar // B Brian Atwood Loreto Crystal Sandals via ShopBop

SIMPLY BRIDAL: Cathedral Veils

I definitely don't have traditional taste at all when it comes to wedding gowns... but I must say I absolutely adore cathedral length veils and the endless gorgeous photographic opportunities they provide. I will definitely have a cathedral length veil for my wedding ceremony. :)

{Photo Credits} Bride wrapped in Veil via 100 Layer Cake, photography by Elizabeth Messina // Bride in Meadow via Style Me Pretty, photography by Simply Bloom Photography // Boudoir Image via Elizabeth Messina at Kiss the Groom // Lace Veil via Style Me Pretty, photography by Roberto Valenzuela // Floral Veil via Style Me Pretty, photography by KT Merry // Bride and Groom Kissing via Taylord Photography // Bride in Veil via Tiny Water Blog // Bride on Beach via Style Me Pretty, photogrpahy by Erin Wallis // Veil in the Wind via JetKat Photo 

SIMPLY BRIDAL: Friday Fancies Outfit Crush

Friday Fancies link-ups with AV at Long Distance Loving are something I've participated in for awhile now over at Nicole Rene Design, so I just figured how fun would it be to continue on with my favorite link-up but with a wedding only twist. I hope you enjoy the new series! :) For my Outfit Crush I chose one of my pins on my Bride & Accessories Pinterest board. I am typically not a ballgown princess type of girl but this bride's style is simply amazing. The gown she wore is by Monique Lhuillier. I think what I love most is that this bride wore this dress for her elopement! When I am helping a bride find her perfect dress, I always tell them that a dress can never be too much for your wedding day. I just love the bride who goes all out for her elopement or small wedding. I recently had a bride buy a gorgeous and extremely extravagant gown for her small wedding in the woods in North Carolina. And even though her dress may scream ballroom setting, I think she is going to seriously wow her man and everyone there. It is one day where all eyes are on you and your fiance... and I don't care if it's only an officiant and your significant other or 300 family members and close friends... I say wear what makes you feel special! What are you opinions on choosing your bridal gown? Is it important to get a dress that fits the venue & theme of the wedding? Or is it okay to get a dress that fits your personality and want you dream of wearing on your big day?

Friday Fancies #1: Outfit Crush

I seriously want that bridal gown though... Hmm & it says she's selling hers... if only I were engaged... :) 

{Shopping Guide} Bride & Groom via 100 Layer Cake // Monique Lhuillier Tuberose via Fashionable Bride // Ralph Lauren V-Neck Cardigan via AlexandAlexa // RJ Graziano Crystal Links of Love Necklace via Rent the Runway // Essie Pink Nail Polish via Zappos // Mint Bow Ring via Mint Rainbows // Lulu Frost Crystal Brooch Bracelet via Rent the Runway // Miu Miu Jeweled Sandals via Nordstrom