Zaharas Events and Design

Newly Engaged Special !

2012-01-13T17:49:00.002-05:00

{ZAHARA’S}

Events & Design, Inc.

845.346.6307

www.zaharasdesign.com

GET BOOKED!

Lock in your date by

April 5, 2012

And get a Free Candy/ Dessert Station.

*Upon signed contract and paid deposit, no cash value, candy / pastries are not included.

Newly Engaged!

2012-01-13T17:30:00.009-05:00

Your

Wedding

Your

Way

Break with Tradition,

And Create a

On- Of- A- Kind Celebration

You’ll Never Forget!

{ZAHARA’S}

Events & Design, Inc.

845.346.6307

www.zaharasdesign.com

Explaining the Difference Between Planners & Designers

2012-01-11T14:58:00.001-05:00

I empathize with most clients who aren’t sure about the difference between what planners do and what designers do.
These two services have become so interchangeable that most of the time, it’s difficult to tell them apart.
Not to mention the local banquet managers from hotels and venues who do not hesitate to tell clients they don’t need a planner.
It’s no wonder clients are confused about who does what.

So here's the difference between the two:

Wedding Planner

A wedding planner is well-versed in wedding coordination, budget allocation, and the best wedding professionals for your budget. Handling the details of your wedding, this pro has great relationships with area professionals and can also often get you discounts or add-ons. From day-of coordination to guidance every step of the way, a wedding planner will usually customize his or her services to best meet your needs. A wedding planner is often your best advocate, and as someone impartial to a venue or church, we have nobody's interest in mind but your own. Here at Zahara's Events & Design, wedding planning is the core of what we do.

A wedding planner’s work begins months before your wedding day. She’s the one to contact once the ring is on your finger and you’re ready to make your dream wedding day a reality. In addition, many wedding planners also act as wedding coordinators since they are highly involved with the planning process and understand your wants and needs for your big day.

Event Designer

While a wedding planner is strongest in the logistics and planning of your wedding, an event designer shines when designing the aesthetics of your wedding. This is where the 'wow' factor comes in. An event designer doesn't just refer you to stationery or favor companies, but has the ability to create things from scratch. If you're envisioning a die-cut wooden cursive sign hanging above your custom wedding altar made of vintage doors and wrought iron gates, an event designer is the one who can make this a reality. A great event designer has all of the tools to create the details to make your wedding unique, from a workshop to electronic cutting machines and the inside scoop on where to find the right props for the job. In addition to wedding planning, Zahara's Events & Design specializes in wedding design, ensuring your wedding has that 'wow' factor that is otherwise hard to achieve.

The event designer is responsible for understanding your wedding day vision and making it a reality. Event designers, like other professionals in the design field, create a “vision” for your wedding day. Much like an interior designer can take a client’s inspiration and create a whole room, an event designer can take your inspiration and create a whole event. Event designers work in close conjunction with floral designers, rental companies, and caterers to craft a truly custom event. In fact, many event designers also offer additional in house design services such as floral design or linen rentals.
While there are differences between the roles and responsibilities of wedding coordinators, wedding planners, and event designers, many wedding professionals offer a mix of these services if not all three. Just remember to ask your wedding consultant exactly which services she offers, don’t just assume.

Here at Zahara's Events & Design, Inc. we offer both services to our brides. Whether you’re looking for someone to coordinate logistics the day of, or you need someone who can transcribe your vision into a breath-taking reality we’re here to help. Give us a call today. We’d simply love to talk about your wedding day!

{ ZAHARA'S}

Event & Design, Inc.

845.346.6307

www.zaharasdesign.com

2012 Wedding & Events Trends

2012-01-09T19:51:00.000-05:00

Here’s what you can expect for this new year:

- Lots of fun colors! Pantone has released its spring 2012 color report and the focus is going to be on brighter colors, but with a focus on teals and grays as accents. Our favorite 2012 color is Margarita :)
- The events industry is going to carry over the projected wedding colors of teal and gray, but also add in some yellows and greens – perhaps the Solar Power traditional yellow??

- Vintage is on its way out – sad, but it did have a great run! – and transitioning toward rustic-chic with nature-inspired themes. Think natural accents, like birch added to a traditional rose floral arrangement, or a theme that ties in local elements, like native flora and colors.

- And our number one favorite 2012 trend is going to be the “custom” wedding and event! Couples and hosts alike are looking for those personal, customized details and design to set their event apart, whether that be unconventional color palettes, family heirlooms and traditions, or a full sensory experience that brings the guest into their world and local space. For a coordinator and designer, that’s the best news and something we’re very much looking forward to! Inspire away!

- Wedding Games,Irish wedding guests have long been used betting games during the speeches, but as couples seek out new ways to entertain their guests, we predict a rise in cool and unusual wedding games – everything from reception games like wedding speech bingo or this i-spy photo treasure hunt for child guests, to outdoor games like giant jenga, croquet and horseshoe toss to keep the spirits high during the pre-dinner drinks.

- llusion necklines are when a sheer panel of fabric creates the illusion of a strapless or low-cut gown, but in fact the bride’s modesty is well preserved. Big on the catwalks of the 2012 bridal collections, they were seen so expect. Again it will be interesting to see how this twist on the strapless gown goes down with Irish brides – we think it could be the super hot 2012 wedding trend in bridal gowns.

Want more 2012 ideas? We've got em! Contact us and we'll be happy to sit down and talk about some ideas with you! Have some ideas of your own? We'd LOVE to hear them! Share some of your inspiration with us in a comment below!

Wedding Dress Trends for 2012

2012-01-06T14:33:00.002-05:00

The Trend: Illusion Necklines

We saw lots of unique necklines this season, but "most spotted" goes to the illusion style, in which a sheer, delicate, and often embellished layer of fabric veils skin that would otherwise be exposed. (Think of illusion as "strapless, with coverage," noting its power to transform a sassy, "look at my boobs" situation into something soft, elegant, and romantic.)

The Trend: Two-Tiered Skirts

Last season in skirts, three-dimensional florals hit critical mass. This season, designers focused on hemlines, creating skirts with two distinct tiers. Call it an exaggerated form of the peplum detail from previous seasons, and this time, it's super flattering—the top tier is a genius way to camouflage wider hips.

The Trend: Horsehair Trim

Don't worry, animal rights activists, horsehair does not come from our equine friends; it's a synthetic fabric often used on the underskirts of gowns to create a cleaner shape and a crisper hemline. Continuing with the trend of turning dresses inside-out (see last season's corsets), designers are now exposing this underlay fabrication, either as a visible hemline treatment or a lavishly looped sash or bodice detail. It works to create incredible volume and dimension on ballgowns and also provides a unique, frothy-yet-modern textural element.

The Trend: Blush

Wearing a wedding gown in a non-white or ivory hue was, until recently, considered a pretty radical move. Then, a few seasons ago, we began seeing subtle pops of color—from the faintest hint of silver or lilac to bright lettuce green—but color was still the exception rather than the rule. This season, however, blush and pink shades appeared on dozens of runways, marking its official debut as an expected—not quirky—wedding gown hue. Perhaps this has something to do with Reese Witherspoon's blush Monique Lhuillier wedding gown. If Reese, a paean to traditional, conservative dressing, chooses pink, it's clearly time to give it a try.

Welcome to the "New" Zahara's Events & Deisgn Blog !

2012-01-01T19:19:00.001-05:00

Zahara's Events & Design is dedicated to great design ,personal relationships, and phenomenal events.

One year ago Keitha Thomas began scheming about bringing contemporary design and fresh ideas to the wedding and event industry , this lead to the start of Zahara's Events &Design, Inc. We are excited to showcase our previous and upcoming work throughout this blog.

We would like to thank all our family, friends and local industry professionals who have supported us throughout the development of our business, nothing would have been possible without your encouragement and kindness throughout this process. We are also happy to announce the launch of our new website www.zaharasdesign.com . We have some many great things in store for 2012, so don't be a strange and make sure to stop by soon!

Happy New Year!!!!!

2011-12-31T13:01:00.000-05:00

For the dreams that turned into realities, the late nights that turned into mornings, the few friends that turned into family, the photos that turned into life-long memories, and the countless blessings God has blessed us all with, cheers to an awesome 2011 and for an even better 2012 !♥ one chapter in life has closed, a new one about to begin...

Wishing You All a Safe and wonderful New Year with lots of joy and prosperity!

Happy Holiday's !!!!!

2011-12-22T17:33:00.001-05:00

Merry Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanzaa & Other!!!!!!

We hope your Holiday's is filled with Peace, Love & Joy!

What we love!- Figgie Shoes

2011-12-17T13:19:00.001-05:00

Today i came across these amazing shoes by Figgie Shoes.There have only been a few new ideas that becomes a trend and i definitely see Figgie Shoes as one of them. These incredible hand painted shoes are a work of art and a lasting memory from your wedding day. I can just imagine the possibilities.

Shoes are one of the most magical items in a woman's wardrobe. They have the power to transform her into many different versions of herself, from mountain climber to beach beauty to sexy siren.
Shoes are personal. Figgie shoes are ridiculously personal—their purpose is to try and explain, in picture and personality, who YOU are, to anyone who happens to be looking.
It has been said that good shoes will take you to good places.

Congrats to such a fantastic idea! Figgie Shoes is proud to offer custom hand-painted footwear for brides and gals all over the globe who just want to have something unique that’s all about them! Ok I am not going to lie I am a little obsessed with them.

For more information on how you can get your hands on your very own Figgie Shoes and to learn more about Deborah and her amazing business check out her website at http//www.figgieshoes.com

5 Common Mistakes Brides Make When Starting to Plan Their Wedding

2011-12-14T14:53:00.001-05:00

1. Not considering a professional wedding planner - Even if you hire an experienced pro for a few hours, it will always pay off. Whether you need help finding the perfect venue or need realistic estimates to create an accurate budget, a seasoned pro can share their expertise.
2. Meeting with vendors before you have a wedding date and venue booked – Your vendors already have weddings on the books for at least the next year. While you may be super excited to book your favorite florist, wait until you have a confirmed date and venue so they can actually book your date and know they are available.
3. Not having a rough budget estimate from the start - If your overall wedding budget is $30k but you want the venue that is $20k, you are really going to skimp on every other vendor category to stay close to your budget.
4. Randomly finding vendors – Ask your venue for a preferred vendor list, hire an experienced planner or use a resource such as Richmond Weddings to find reputable professional vendors who have a great reputation and at least two years of experience. Also, read reviews for potential vendors on websites such as the Knot.com, MyWedding and Wedding Wire.
5. Not having a general style before you look at venues - Rustic mountain cabin, historic mansion, grand hotel ballroom, private home, country club, organic farm…all of these offer a very different types of atmosphere for a wedding. What is the feeling and type of atmosphere you want to create? Romantic, elegant, luxury, casual, chic, modern, artsy, vintage, simple and eclectic are just a few common adjectives to help you get started.

Richmond Weddings Expo

2011-12-05T14:37:00.001-05:00

We are excited to be apart of Richmond Wedding Expo this year. Come see us on Sun Jan 15th 2012 at 12 PM

If you have not purchased your tickets to ricmond Weddings Expo yet you can buy them online at
http://www.richmondweddings.com/index.php?page=bridal-show

We look forward to seeing you there!!!!!

Holiday Traditions

2011-12-03T22:16:00.003-05:00

Christmas is my favorite time of the year! My Christmas tree goes up way too early and they've been known to stay around until February. My absolute favorite part is just being able to spend time with my family. I remember when i was younger my father use to drive me and my sisters around the neighborhood so we can see just how pretty the houses looked all lite up .My kids are pretty young so you can only imagine just how much fun we have during the holiday season, from making ginger bread houses to baking and crafting its just a joyous time together.

These are a few of our traditions that i look forward to each year:

Every year during Thanksgiving when the whole family gets together we would put up our Christmas tree. My kids gets so excited and helps put up the decorations , while naming all the toys they would like Santa to bring them and counting down the days til Christmas.

Each year i select a different wrapping paper for each person in the family. it usually has sort of a special meaning and fits our individual personalities perfectly. Each gift is elaborately wrapped and placed under the tree with as much though going into presentation as the gift inside.

On Christmas Eve my family would get together for Christmas dinner and afterwards we attend midnight service at church. When we get home the kids are usually exhausted and excited all at the same time. We read the night before Christmas and set out cookies for Santa. Early Christmas morning one of my kids usually wakes the whole family to open presents.

Wedding Moments Set To Music

2011-11-01T21:11:00.000-04:00

I had a friend once tell me that I’d make a great lady DJ. I suppose he could be right because I truly love music and sometimes find myself thinking of the perfect song for the perfect moment. Well, that and I love dancing…which is why you might find me moving to the beat just a little bit during a wedding reception.

Each song throughout the wedding becomes a part of a “wedding soundtrack” similar to one you would find in a movie soundtrack or film score. Every melody is used to suggest a particular emotion and message at different occasions. I’ve often thought it would be a great gift to give couples the musical soundtrack from their wedding…or at least the list of songs so they can download it down the road. (Hint to all of you amazing wedding DJs out there!)

No, I am not saying that I’ll DJ your wedding (even though I’ve coached many club mixing DJs on how to be the Master of Ceremonies and help couples choose music for different moments during their wedding.) But I will tell you that I’ve been doing weddings for so long, when I hear music throughout the day, I think of how it can be used in a wedding.

While listening to one of my favorite radio stations on XM/ Sirius Radio I’ll hear the perfect song for a grand entrance or while watching a movie I’ll discover a magical piece ideal for a more contemporary wedding ceremony. I’ve been keeping track of these songs in my head for some time now and share them with clients from time to time. I thought it would be fun to post some here too.

But before I do, I’d like to get you thinking about the music you choose differently. Imagine yourself as if you were creating a theatrical performance, only instead of an audience merely observing, they are EXPERIENCING. How can you create that experience that makes them feel exactly the way you want them to feel? What song would make one particular moment evoke more emotion?

In my opinion, there should be some type of music in the background throughout the entire celebration (with the exception of the ceremony in most cases.) Think of it from the guest’s perspective…when they first arrive, what do they experience simply from the music you have chosen? Walk through the entire day with that in your mind paying particular attention to significant moments that most couples overlook…like the grand entrance into the ballroom or the melodies in the air as you cut your cake.

Yes, you can definitely trust a good wedding musician to fill in the blanks if you don’t want to, but wouldn’t it be more meaningful and more “YOU” if you spent the time to choose the songs yourself?

I’m kicking off a weekly post on some ideas I’ve thought of for wedding music. (Chime in if you like!) Let’s have some fun with this!

Grand Entrance Song Ideas This Week
- Black eyes peas: I Got A Feeling
- Lmafo ft Lauren bennett and goon rock: Party rock anthem
-Rascal Flatts: My wish
- Cupid: cupid Shuffle

11 Questions That Determine What Equipment Is Included With Your Wedding Package

2011-10-27T14:06:00.000-04:00

Most venues offer standard equipment to use at wedding celebrations I call “Hotel Standards.” The trick is to know exactly what is available so you can determine how much customization you need to do. Not sure what to ask your venue coordinator? Here is a quick list to get you started:

1. What size and shape tables do you have in your inventory?
2. What chair options do you offer for both the ceremony and reception?
3. Do you offer charger plates for the dinner reception?
4. What does the glassware look like that we can use?
5. What colors and types of linens are available at no charge for each of our event locations?
6. Do you provide votive candles for the tables? If so, how many? What is the maximum number of candles that can be placed on a dining table?
7. What kind of dance floor is included?
8. Do you offer risers/ staging for our ceremony/ cake table/ head or sweetheart table? If so, what color skirting is included?
9. Do you have umbrellas and space heaters available?
10. What A/V equipment is included for each of the event locations we have?
11. Is there any lounge furniture available at the hotel we can use for our event(s)?

Once you have the answers to these questions, then you know what you need to start searching for to create the customized look you want to create.

Don’t want to be bothered with all of the fine print? A wedding planner can manage these details while you work on the fun stuff…like the perfect dress!

A Beautiful Mess wedding: Elsie + Jeremy, and a DIY boutonniere/corsage tutorial | Ceremony & Reception, Details + Decor, DIY Wedding, Real Weddings | 100 Layer Cake

2011-09-21T19:11:00.001-04:00

If ever there was a bride who outdid herself, Elsie Larson (of the indie fashion/craft blog A Beautiful Mess) wins the prize. Her wedding is not only irresistible – it’s a DIY masterpiece. A bursting celebration of fun, colors, textures and craft.

Here’s a fun video of their day:

Elsie & Jeremy | May 15th 2011 from Goodwin Films on Vimeo.

To finds out more on how you too can incorporate some of these brilliant details for your own DIY wedding head on over to http://www.100layercake.com/blog/2011/06/17/a-beautiful-mess-wedding-elsie-jeremy-and-a-diy-boutonnierecorsage-tutorial/, where Elsie is sharing tutorials on how you can make your own boutonniere and corsage.

Vendors Spot light: Celeste Studios

2011-08-29T18:12:00.001-04:00

The fact is that most couples find that after their wedding, the entire day was just a complete blur. A year's worth of planning and all of the details just go by so fast. Couples also find that they only witness 60 percent of their wedding day because almost half of it took place when they were somewhere else.

Nothing can capture your day like your wedding movie - the tear rolling down your mother's cheek or the bestman breakdancing on the dance floor can only be relived through video!

Check out this amazing wedding video of Adhari & Maverick wedding by Janice Celeste of Celeste Studio

Adhari ❤ Maverick's Wedding from Janice Celeste on Vimeo.

For more info on how you can capture this amazing once in a lifetime experience of your own
contact Janice Celeste at http://www.celestestudios.com/

Taking Wedding Photographs You'll Cherish for the Rest of Your Life - Bridal Party

2011-08-29T15:45:00.001-04:00

Trying to cut cost in your wedding budge? Well here's one place that should never be eliminated or even taken for granted.

Your wedding day pictures is one that you will cherish for years to come. The most memorable thing you will have of one of the most special day of your lifetime.
And one major aspect of your wedding that you will regret if you chose to opt out.

Here's some tips for choosing the right photographer for you.

Taking Wedding Photographs You'll Cherish for the Rest of Your Life - Bridal Party (washingtonian.com)

A Workout Plan For Your Wedding - Bridal Party

2011-08-29T15:37:00.001-04:00

Why it's important for brides and grooms to be in top shape (hint: it involves your sex drive).

Check out this article below for tip from The Expert: Mark Jenkins
Chief trainer at the Mandarin Oriental on why you should stay in good health

A Workout Plan For Your Wedding - Bridal Party (washingtonian.com)

Munaluchi Bridal Magazine

2011-07-30T16:17:00.001-04:00

We love seeing magazines with diversity. Munaluchi Bridal Magazine is the premiere source of wedding inspiration for women of color who crave culture and style.We've ordered ours, what about you?

Toya Carter & Memphitz Tie The Knot

2011-07-27T16:21:00.000-04:00

Congratulations to Toya and Memphitz, on your marriage. We wish you a lifetime of happiness!

Last night BET aired the final episode of “Toya: A Family Affair.” Fans got to watch Toya and Memphitz say “I Do” and we have to admit we got a little teary eyed watching Toya’s fairy tale ending. What really tugged at our heartstrings was seeing Memphitz tearing up at the wedding when he saw Toya walking down the aisle. I must say, I love this couple and I adored them even more after reading their cover story in the February Issue of Sister 2 Sister Magazine as well as seeing them interact on her new reality show. The two lovebirds married in a private ceremony yesterday in Atlanta, Georgia and Lil Wayne’s ex is now officially Mrs. Wright! Singer Kelly Price sang as Toya walked down the aisle. There was no drama at the wedding, everything was beautiful and it went off without a hitch.

Congrats to Memph & Toya! They deserve all the love and happiness in the world….

Elegance in Bridal Show

2011-07-19T20:41:00.001-04:00

What an awesome time we had at this pass Sunday Elegance in Bridal Showcase. We couldn't of had a better turn out. I would like to welcome all our new brides to the ZED family and i just cant wait for all the amazing weddings we will be creating.
Here's a few pictures of our booth from the show.

I Do! Loren & Ryan Kirkland

2011-07-18T21:46:00.003-04:00

Real Wedding # 10

Last month I had the pleasure of coordinating this years 2011 Forever yours dream wedding, that was given away by Heavenly Heaven Production. After months of preparation and planning, this day couldn't have come any sooner and boy was it an amazing day. But this event wouldn't have been successful without the help of our sponsors: Angelique's Boutique (Wedding Gown) Heavenly Haven Tuxedos (Tuxedos) Holiday Inn Select, ( Ceremony, Reception) Decorations (Heavenly Haven Productions and Zahara's Events and Design) ,Zahara's Events and Design (Wedding Coordination) Platinum Photography by Lorenzo (Wedding pictures),Blue Diamond Studios (Videography), Martin's Food (Wedding Cake and Flowers),RSVP guest ( Invitations and Programs)

Here's a few pictures of the wedding.

Come Join Us! At Elegance In Bridal Show

2011-07-08T19:21:00.004-04:00

Come Join Us! At

Elegance In Bridal Show

Time	Sunday, July 17 · 1:00pm - 4:00pm

Location	Holiday Inn Koger Conference Center 1021 Koger Center Blvd

	* If you are interested in attend leave a comment today ! We would be giving away 2 tickets to one lucky bride to be. Good luck! Or Registrar Today @ http://www.eleganceinbridalshow.com/RichmondBridalShow.html

More Info	The Richmond Elegance in Bridal Show showcases premier wedding service providers from the Greater Richmond area at the Holiday Inn Select, Koger South. wedding professionals are looking to provide services for your wedding day. Visit with exhibitors, receive free magazines, taste food samples, win prizes and receive door prizes.The FIRST 500 brides and or grooms will receive honeymoon trips and the FIRST 300 wedding band sets. Tickets are $10 at the door and $7 in advance

8 Questions You Must Ask a Wedding Professional Before Booking Them

2011-07-08T18:28:00.003-04:00

8 Questions You Must Ask a Wedding Professional Before Booking Them

Hiring the right team is critical to planning your dream wedding…and it can also be quite stressful.

How do you find the right match for you? How do you know who to trust? Where do you go for advice?

First of all, this is not an easy task and it’s totally normal for couples to feel overwhelmed, frustrated or confused.

It’s not like you plan a wedding every day! This is all probably brand new to you, so be patient with yourself.

A few tips to finding the right ones for you…

Do Your Homework. You’ll get much more out of a meeting or conversation with a wedding professional if you do a little background homework first.

Spend some time on the internet or talking to friends who’ve recently been married. Find out the average prices in your area and what services are available. Get an idea of what you like and don’t like. Wedding websites and chat rooms can be a great resource. This way when you meet with a wedding professional you’ll be able to ask better questions and have an idea of what to look out for.

Meet With Them. An in person meeting is the best way to interview a potential wedding vendor. It lets you get the full experience of their personality, style and professionalism. If that’s not possible, have a phone conversation.

Ask Questions. There are no stupid questions! Make sure you get clear, specific answers to your questions. If you aren't sure what something means, ask them to clarify. Keep asking questions until you completely understand.

If a wedding vendor has a problem with you asking questions, they probably aren’t the one for you. The best wedding professionals are patient, understanding and take the time to help you make the best choices for your wedding.

Listen. Don’t just hear the words they say, really listen. Watch the vendor’s body language. Are they confident and comfortable with their response? Do they look and sound nervous? Do you get a “funny feeling” about them? Take all the sights, sounds and feelings into account along with their responses; if your gut tells you something isn’t right, it probably isn’t.
Check References. Portfolios are hand-picked to show off the best work, but they may not represent the “average” wedding performance. Videos are edited for the optimum presentation. But real referrals from satisfied clients are hard to fake.

Call up both client and professional references. Ask questions and use those listening skills. Even if they give a rave review, you’ll often be able to “read between the lines” if there were any issues or problems.

Ask around and search the internet for reviews. Check the Better Business Bureau for any outstanding complaints against the business. Weigh all of this information into your choices.

Here are 8 Must Ask Questions to ask ALL your potential wedding professionals before booking:

1. How many weddings do you do per year? How much experience do you have?

This is an extremely important question. Ideally, your wedding professional should have ample experience specifically with weddings. Not only will they be more skilled in their craft, this also makes them a valuable source of information and ensures that your wedding day goes smoothly.

2. How much do you cost?

Price is often relative, especially when you factor in experience, reputation and expert skill. Generally, the most talented professionals have a higher price tag because they are worth it.

3. How much is the deposit?

4. What specifically is included in that cost?

Because packages often vary, it’s likely that you won’t be able to compare one vendor exactly to the next without doing a little figuring. The lowest cost isn’t necessarily the best deal; some higher quotes include services that you have to pay extra for in other packages. Make sure you take this into account.

5. What happens if I cancel? What happens if you cancel?

Find out if your deposit is refundable under any conditions. Does the wedding professional have a back up plan if something happens to them?

6. Do you use a contract?

If the answer is No, RUN! A contract is designed to protect both you and the wedding professional. Don’t settle for a verbal agreement that won’t hold up in court.

7. Are there any additional fees?

Taxes, service charges and travel fees can add up quickly. Make sure you understand exactly what is included and if there are any other fees you’ll have to pay. This should be clearly defined in your contract.

8. Do you carry liability insurance?

The answer you’re looking for here is Yes. This protects you in case an unfortunate accident should occur on your wedding day. It’s also a sign that this is a reputable business, since most “fly by night” operations don’t invest in insurance.

If chosen wisely, with the right wedding vendors you get expert help and advice…for free!

Ryan & Loren Weds

2011-06-22T14:02:00.000-04:00

After months of preparation the day had finally came when Ryan and Loren Kirkland will wed in front of 80 close friends and family, And i must say what an awesome day it was. Thanks to all those that made this event successful.

Congratulation and i wish you both a life full of happiness and joy !

More Pics to come soon!

Pay just $200 and get $400 worth of Event Services (Richmond , Va)

2011-06-12T15:47:00.003-04:00

Think beyond the ordinary and imagine a day that reflects you and your fiancé--an amazing day with details that dazzle. Pay just $200 and get $400 worth of services from Zahara's Events & Design. Let them take you through their signature design process to discover your wedding style. They will design an inspiration board that reflects your style, along with personal details, the perfect color palette, sketches, floral design ideas, linen suggestions, suggested room diagram, and of course recommendations for the vendors to help you implement the design. This deal includes the initial discovery meeting, design time and design presentation meeting.

50% Off Day of Services

2011-06-12T15:46:00.001-04:00

Relax on Your Big Day With 50% off Day Of Coordination Package

A fabulous deal--pay $600 and get $1,200 worth of day-of coordination services from Zahara's Events & Design Inc. Event planning can be very overwhelming, but Zahara's Events and Design can help!

Package Includes: One two-hour, in-person consultation to review all wedding day details, including: walk throughs of both the ceremony and reception; vendor recommendations; regular communication via email and phone one month from your wedding day; guidance on ceremony readings, traditions, customs, etc.; confirmation with all contracted vendors prior to wedding date; a detailed time line for bridal party and family members; transportation of all wedding day items to the location; assist contracted vendors with set-up and décor; two-hour rehearsal; packing of gifts at the reception; and on-site coordination and supervision for up to 10 hours on the wedding day.

The Details:
Please confirm availability of your desired dates prior to purchase
Limit one per customer
This deal expires on August 31, 2011
Must print and present this coupon at time of consultation/purchase
Coupon is not redeemable for cash
Coupon cannot be combined with any other offer
A formal contract must be signed for wedding planning package to be effective
Additional planning services may be requested at regular price

Zaharasdesign.blogspot.com Call Us Today ! 845.346.6307

Top 10 Tip for choosing the perfect venue

2011-06-05T15:32:00.002-04:00

The Search for the Perfect Wedding Venue
The Top 10 Tip for Choosing the Right Space

1. Make sure to visit the venue
I know this sounds a bit silly, but I’ve lost count of the people who have said they went to venues and the space looked nothing like the images they were sent by coordinators. You have to see it in person! Wedding venue websites are not so super. The photos are small and sometimes skewed, and you rarely get an idea of what the space is like. Also, you might see a venue that doesn’t have great photos, but in person, its amazing! Don’t rely too much on what you see in the brochures and make sure to see for yourself. Take the time to schedule appointments (early!) and go! It’s worth it. And fun. And romantic. We visited Bath twice, once to see the venue, and once to get a better feel for the area, go to restaurants etc. We’re going again in the next month.
2. Check the fine print.
OMG check it five times over. I have recently heard from a friend about a venue in London that charged £1000 for heating! It was in the fine print. I think thats pretty crazy, but you can’t argue costs once the contract has been signed, so make sure you check everything over. Also, every venue charges in a different way – ie. some include caterers that you have to use, while others might have a higher room / space rental, but you can choose your own suppliers which might allow you to save. While initially, one venue might seem way more expensive than another, if you compare the two (or more) the hidden and not so hidden costs might come out closer than you think.
3. Focus on the Big Picture
Sometimes a venue had some really awesome detailing, like a gorgeous reception area, or an amazing exterior that really got me excited. Each time I thought for sure, if everyone in the wedding could just spend some time in this one particular room / space, they would be just as excited as I was. The truth is, you can’t control where people look and where they go, so you have to be happy with the entire space, not just the fancy fireplace in the far left hand side of the room. It is better to choose a place you love as a whole, than one for a detail some people might not see. This was one of the hardest parts for me.
4. See as many venues as you need to, but know when to stop.
Another hard one for me. Especially with this blog! I saw the Bath Assembly Rooms first out of all our venues and something inside told me it was the right one but I was really nervous about making a decision without seeing more spaces. So we saw loads more and I kept changing my mind. I have envisioned so many different weddings in different places these past few months I got to a point where I had absolutely no idea what I wanted anymore. We made lists (thanks to some fab ladies on Twitter) and we made spreadsheets and we made mood boards. These helped and we finally made the decision. Every now and then I get an itch to go an see another space for “research” purposes, but have held back. Once you’ve made your choice, move on. There are so many other things you need to think of now!
5. Ask people for help and talk about it.
As the venue decision is primarily the bride and groom’s, with the help of family members etc. I got the impression you didn’t really want to talk things over with others. Thats so wrong. I’m not sure why I felt that way, but the minute I began to talk to others about the pros and cons, the details, the overall feelings I was having, the better I felt. I talked to my cat, I talked to taxi drivers, I talked to myself in the shower. I was a pretty nervous bride when it came to making the decision and talking things out, and hearing people’s advice made me more confident in my choice. In the end, people are not nearly as hung up on the venue as you are. In fact, there are going to be people (SOB!) who don’t even notice it. But the good thing is, they are excited for you and your fiance. They are there to celebrate you, and the venue, although it is an extremely integral part of the wedding, is only the first of many things that will contribute to your special day.
6. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box.
Some of the best weddings I have seen have been in the least traditional wedding spaces. Couples are always trying to find ways to put their personal touches on their special day, so don’t be afraid to take a chance. There is no right way to do a ceremony or reception, so spend some time on wedding blogs and see what suits your personality. This wedding is for you and your family, not for everyone else expectations.
7. Think Transport Logistics
This is a bit of a boring one, BUT, still important. How are people going to get to your venue, and if your ceremony and reception are in different places, how do you transfer people. If there is drinking, there shouldn’t be driving, so do you organise buses, taxis, can people walk etc. I have not yet looked into this as I think we’re going to have everything in one place, but have heard some tales of pretty expensive transport costs – don’t forget these!
8. Find out about any restrictions ASAP
One of my favourite venues had loads of restrictions due to the restoration work that had recently been done. The good thing was that it was in amazing condition. The bad thing was a lot of stuff could not be touched, but could not be moved, people were not allowed to have dark coloured drinks after dinner (ie. no red wine, coke etc.) and although it was absolutely beautiful, I was not ready to deal with all of those extra rules. Make sure you know what you’re getting yourself into, and if you’re happy with the rules, go for it. Surprises later are no fun.
9. Consult your fiance.
OF COURSE we did this on a regular basis, but my fiance really wanted a wedding outside of London. I found LOADS of beautiful London based venues, and fell in love with quite a few, but none as much as the Assembly Rooms. J felt the same and while he is happy for me to make most of the decorative / aesthetic decisions, he did really want a say in the venue, and he was right. It feels much better to make the decision together and we’re both really happy.
10. Get Excited!
OMG you have a venue! Tell everyone and start planning! Thats what I’m doing

The Ultimate Bachelorette Party

2011-06-05T15:10:00.000-04:00

In addition to wearing a less-than-flattering chartreuse bridesmaid’s gown, you’ve been given the thankless task of throwing a bachelorette party (aka the stagette to you Canadian gals). Make it a memorable one with our must-have tips for planning the ultimate stagette.

The Theme

Firstly, decide whether you want a “go-out” night or to stay at home. Next, decide whether you want to be traditional or more adventurous. The classic bachelorette usually involves a night of bar-hopping, going to a strip club or playing drinking games like “I never.” Consider the bride’s comfort level: most likely, you’re a good friend, so you’ll know whether she’s cool with having a dancer shaking his money-maker in front of her or whether she’d prefer a girls’ gambling night.

If you’re staying in, choose a theme. The options are endless: you could have an at-home spa night, a lingerie party or even take a Pole Dancing 101 class. Or, you may want to plan an overnight girls’ getaway to Las Vegas. Pool your resources among your fellow bachelorettes and figure out what you can afford (including enough to cover the bride) before you get too far into the planning process.

The Invite

Before sending out invites, you might want to ask the bride for input on the guest list. After all, it’s her night. If you haven’t already discussed funds with the ladies, it may be a good idea to mention the cost of the night’s festivities on the invite. When it comes to the actual invite, I know lots of girls who get all Martha Stewart-y about it and send out fancy stippled-origami-decorative-scroll-motif invites. Phone or email is a totally acceptable, less labour-intensive option. Evite (evite.com) has plenty of pretty templates to choose from. Plus, it’s free.

The Food

If you’re going out, it’s a good idea to choose places where they serve food, 'cause there’ll be a lot of boozing going on. Plus, with a large group of girls, somebody’s bound to get peckish and you don’t want to have to deal with someone’s low blood sugar tantrums.

On the other hand, if you’re staying in, why not try Tapas? It could be anything from small cubes of meat and cheese to short ribs. Comfort foods are always a no-brainer and a great choice if it’s cold outside. Make it special with a fancy twist like macaroni and cheese with provolone and asiago sauce or a poutine topped with shredded lamb. If you’re no Iron Chef in the kitchen, call a caterer that specializes in event planning to help you create a fun menu.

The Drink

For those of you hosting at home, whip up a signature drink for the evening that plays on your night’s theme. Having a girls’ poker night? Mix up some Kir Royales with champagne and cassis for a James Bond-ish feeling. Or, if you’re having a slumber party, rent classic 80s flick Pretty in Pink and mix up a pink-hued cocktail like a Pink Lady. And you can’t go wrong with good red wine. Have a selection of drinks on hand in case some take a pass on the girlie drinks.

The Games

No stagette is complete without a few cheesy games. If you’re going barhopping, embarrassing the bride in public is par for the course. While at the bar, you could prepare a special scavenger hunt in which the bride has to work for her drinks as she hunts for items like condoms and toilet paper rolls from other bar patrons. Or, you could give her the task of having to beg men for money towards her honeymoon fund.

Meanwhile on the home front, a funny spin on a classic game is Pin the Organ on the Hoff – and this one gets even funnier the more drinks you have. Make your own game by going to Google images and downloading a classic David Hasselfhoff-in-his-black-Speedos beefcake shot. To get a good poster size, you may want to go to a professional copier place (be prepared for some strange looks when you tell them what you want). Next, all you need is some construction paper, scissors, and a dirty mind and away you go.

If all this makes you cringe but you want to host the party at home, you can up the cool factor by renting a couple of casino tables for a girls’ gambling night. Just look in the yellow pages or online to find party rental places, and they’ll deliver blackjack, roulette or poker tables right to your door.

The Décor

Again, let your theme dictate your décor. If it suits a certain colour, such as pink, for example, go with it. And why not buy balloons (phallic or not), candles and feather boas to match? And be sure to have some fun goody bags on-hand for your fellow bachelorettes. Oh, and don’t forget the penis-shaped piñata.

Unique and incredible Wedding Video

2011-05-20T11:23:00.000-04:00

Looking for an amazing and unique idea for your wedding day video? Then you must check this out it is sure to inspire .

joya and emre | wedding music video from David Robin on Vimeo.

The Great Mother's Day Giveaway !

2011-04-27T18:47:00.001-04:00

Hi my loves! Mother’s Day is coming up so in the spirit of mommy’s, I wanted to do a Mother’s Day gift basket giveaway. I’ve put together a gift basket stocked full of tons of fun gifts perfect for the occasion. I’ve included some Bath and Body products, Sweetkakes & Co. kake pops, and lots of other products that mom will love!

In order to enter, tell me in a comment what you love most about your mom and why she should be the one to get this gift basket along with a contact email address. Can’t wait to hear what you all have to say. You have until Monday, May 2, at 1pm PT to enter. The winner would be announce May 5th on Good luck everyone!

2011 Dream Wedding winners

2011-03-29T19:59:00.001-04:00

Congratulations Tiffani and Shawn on being the 2011 Dream Wedding winners

We are so excited to be working with you guys!

Free NYC Wedding

2011-03-24T13:43:00.002-04:00

Free Wedding Ceremony in NY

Brand-new WEdding series is looking for 12 lucky couples... We'll provide unique and tasteful, personalized wedding ceremony in the NY setting of your choosing. We'll cover the location fee, insurance, help with the cost of wedding apparel and flowers, provide you with an officiant, talented photographers, decorators and hair & make up to ensure your wedding looks stunning and is captured accordingly.

* Be married at an iconic location - no hassles, no fuss, we take care of your dream NYC location AND give you a wedding planner PLUS help defray some of your costs!!
* If you are planning your wedding on a shoestring budget, let us help you stay on track and give you more bang for your buck for a wedding you'll never forget!
* Receive the help of Gino Filippone, a professional wedding planner, at no charge to you! We remove the stress, help foot the bill, AND - we give you a dream NYC location for your special day!!!

wedding chapel elope engagement dj florist flowers ceremony officiant marriage license photographer videographer bridal party limo hassle-free cake invitations

If you're interested, please e-mail casting director ASAP ivette@metalflowersmedia.com

Whats Hot for 2011 Wedding?

2011-03-22T11:28:00.000-04:00

Here are some haute trends for the 2011 Wedding season.

Vintage touches

One of the top wedding trends for the upcoming year is vintage and retro-inspired with a modern twist. What’s old is new. We’ll see:

vintage wedding dresses with cap sleeves
beautiful textures
ornate details
natural settings, including outdoor and backyard weddings
photo booths (actual and set areas with draped-cloth backdrops)
vintage photography

Eco-friendly weddings

In 2011, we’ll continue to see more green, environmentally friendly weddings. Think second-hand and vintage wedding dresses, LED lighting, recycled paper invitations and programs, and food from local farms and providers. Charity donations will continue to be a popular option instead of traditional wedding favors, and more couples will be asking for donations to their favorite charity instead of wedding gifts.

Modern choices

The contemporary, modern wedding will still be big in 2011. Brides are opting for non-traditional dress choices, such as: beautiful hues instead of the usual white or ivory; old shoulder instead of strapless; and short cocktail dresses (the little white dress) instead of a long gown. This trend will continue through décor, as well, with couples steering away from the customary 10-person round table and opting to mix table shapes and sizes. They are also incorporating bright and bold colors, cool lounge settings, and after parties; choosing cupcakes instead of a wedding cake; and letting color tie together the bridesmaids as they choose different styles of dresses.

DIY weddings

“Do it yourself” is another wedding trend we’ll continue to see next year. Originally brought on by the economy, this trend is here to stay because it not only saves money, but also adds a special something to the big day. Personalized touches and little details are very important; couples are incorporating their favorite interests, hobbies, places and even sports.

Social media influence

We’ll also continue to see social media play a part in the wedding planning process. Couples will keep guests informed through wedding websites and post updates about their excitement and plans on Facebook and Twitter. Posts such as “We booked the band today!” allow friends and family to feel like they are part of the planning.

Elegants in bridal showcase

2011-03-14T14:49:00.000-04:00

Back in January we were asked by heaven heaven productions to create some inspiration display table scape for their Bridal show at the Omni Hotel in Charlottesville here are some pics from the show.

2011 Forever yours Dream Wedding Giveaway & Showcase

2011-03-14T14:41:00.000-04:00

Last February we had the pleasure of showcasing and being a sponsor for Heavenly Heaven Production 2011 Forever Yours Dream Wedding giveaway here's a few pictures of our booth at the bridal showcase on Februay 27th 2011.

I want to thank all the brides and their families for stopping by our booth and welcome all our New Brides to our family!

Wedding Special

2011-03-06T15:22:00.001-05:00

*SPRING SPECIAL*
Zahara’s Events & Design Inc. specializes in creating sophisticated, chic, events designed completely to your specification. We offer modern, stylish services with expertise and professionalism. By combining an ultra chic sense of style, a refined attention to detail and cutting edge event planning Zahara’s elevates ordinary events into extraordinary experience and transports guest into a world of beauty, imagination and ultra sophistication

Book any Full or Partial service packages by April 25th 2011 and receive free bridal party flowers -

For more info and a list of other services we provide contact us today at 804-639-0032 or email us a zaharasdesign@gmail.com

2011-03-03T11:27:00.000-05:00

* Submit your new,now and never-been- done before wedding or party ideas by emailing us your photos and description to zaharasdesign@gmail.com. Each week for the next 4 weeks one lucky submission would be feature on our blog.

Forever Yours Dream Wedding Showcase

2011-02-25T12:30:00.000-05:00

Join us this Sunday at the Forever Yours Dream Wedding Showcase
Sunday Feb 27th from 1-4pm @ Richmond's Holiday Inn Select, Kroger South

Zahara's Events & Design Debut on CBS6 "Happily Ever After" Segment

2011-02-23T14:51:00.000-05:00

Customized Music and Lighting Packages, Valentines Day Special!

2011-02-10T22:40:00.000-05:00

Hey guys ! SRO Productions has a valentines day special going on right now, customize music and lighting packages up to 5 hrs for $695 for more info contact Jake Anderson @ 540-355-8433 or jake@gosro.com

Forever Yours Dream Wedding Giveaway

2011-02-10T22:37:00.000-05:00

Wedding Giveaway!

Calling All Brides!

The Forever Yours Dream Wedding Showcase and Giveaway!

Enter today @ www.foreveryoursdreamwedding.com for your chance to win a $30,000 wedding giveaway. deadline Feb 18, 2011
Winner to be announces Feb 27th @ the forever yours dream wedding showcase at Richmond's Holiday Inn select

Good Luck!

Dream Wedding Contest

www.foreveryoursdreamwedding.com

Callin All Richmond 2011 Brides! Wedding Photography Give Away!

2011-02-05T10:53:00.000-05:00

IYQ Photography Giveaway

IYQ’s First Ever Wedding Give Away. IYQ is offering one lucky couple a complete wedding photography package.

The deets:
All entries do before midnight on February 2oth, 2oll.
Open to couples of any orientation based l5o miles within Richmond, Va deserving of ridiculously fun and absurdly wonderful photography.
Winners will be chosen based on the most compelling submissions l). confessing your love
2). telling us why you and your honey deserve free wedding photography. Do you have a great story? Overcoming a hardship? A superhero in your community? or
just too stinkin’ adorable for words?
We want to hear it all so bring your ‘A-Game.’
Couples must be getting married prior to February 2ol2.
A breakdown of the pirate booty:
Engagement Session.
Bridal Session.

8 hours coverage on you big wedding day.
With the ‘best of’s’ for you two to cherish forever and ever.

Want to submit?
Send us your best! You can submit a written love story, a
video, big tray of yummy cookies -anything goes. Tell us everything and then some. Don’t forget to include your names, a photo, your wedding date, what kind of wedding you’re planning and any other juicy details.
Need moral support? Encourage family, friends and loved ones to submit on your behalf as well. Email submissions and/or links to:
iyqimages@yahoo.com
Winners will be plastered all over the IYQ blog and Facebook no later than February 28th, 2oll.

www.IYQphotography.com

Cythnia Baliey - Non Tranditional Dress

2011-02-04T19:44:00.000-05:00

Non -Traditional Wedding Dress

Not sure if you all keep up with "Atlanta Housewives" but my Sundays sure ends with me locked onto bravo just waiting to see what foolishness and drama they have in store for me that night. Last Sunday ended with the suspense of weather or not Ms. Cythnia Baliey would either finally tie the knot or become another run away bride. After much attempts by others to sabotage her day Ms Baliey oh should i say "Ms Baliey- Thomas " walked down the isle in high style.What else should we have expected. I absolutely love her dress . love it when brides think out the box and try a non traditional approach to their wedding day. A great way to show off your personality and add your personal touches to your special day, after all its only one day why not do with a bang!

Luxury Bridal Accessories

2011-02-03T17:03:00.000-05:00

Emici Bridal

Looking to add a little "BLING" to your special day? Well you have to check out Emici Bridal. Today we are featuring Emici Bridal a luxury heirloom bridal accessories company. Everything you need from silk bouquets, hair/dress accessories featuring Swarovski crystals, rhinestones, genuine freshwater pearls, dupioni silk and fluffy ostrich feathers. They have everything you need to add a little style to your wedding.

DIY Wedding ideas: The Do's and Don't of a DIY Wedding

2011-02-03T13:35:00.000-05:00

To DIY or not to DIY. That is the question, isn’t it? Once a bride gets into DIY mode, it can be quite a high. It’s easy to think, “Hey, why don’t I just do EVERYTHING myself!” However before you take up permanent residents at your local Michaels, it’s important to consider a few questions:
Can and should everything be a DIY project for a wedding? If your reasons for DIY-ing are monetary—is DIY-ing always cheaper?
Well based on feedback from our brides over at Zahara's Events & Design Inc., I’ve assembled a little breakdown of items to consider when contemplating some popular DIY projects:

5 DIY Dos

Your Makeup: If you do your own makeup, you'll be in the privacy of your home or hotel room -- and you won't have to book an appointment (or worry about being on time)! Grab a few basics: foundation, powder, eye shadow, blush, and lipstick. Put on enough to accentuate your best features. Worried about looking washed out in your photos? Do a trial run and have a friend take a few pictures.
Your Ceremony Decor: The ceremony lasts less than an hour, so it seems like a waste to pay big bucks for specialty arrangements, especially if the site is pretty on its own. Create hanging baskets or vases filled with locally grown flowers. Doing so is both eco-friendly and cost-efficient. Or, instead of flowers, buy candles and place them throughout the space. Use any extras you may have to brighten your newlywed nest.
Your Favors: A quick way to save money on wedding favors is to add a personal touch. Sweet treats are a safe choice. Grab a box of your favorite mix and start baking. Pack them in colorful boxes or cute bags. For nonedibles, wrap up tree saplings or donate to charity. Be sure to give guests handwritten cards that say you've given in their name.
Your Invitations, Programs, and Save-the-Dates: Specialty papers, postage, and card sizes can cost hundreds, and you still might not be able to find exactly what you want. Head to a local paper store for a DIY kit or choose stock paper in any color and print stylish invites right off of your computer. Avoid the mistake of getting too fancy and using oversized envelopes -- they cost extra to mail.

6 DIY Don'ts

Your Cake: Whether it's a missed teaspoon of sugar or a tilted tier, a wedding cake disaster is hard to fix. Yes, it would be much less expensive to buy a few boxes of cake mix and do it yourself, but the quality in the end could be lacking. Decorating and transporting a wedding cake is quite difficult and best left to someone with the knowledge of how to handle your confection without damaging it.
Your Photos: Your photographs are one of the few tangible things you'll have to remember your wedding. All of your loved ones may promise to capture every moment, but what happens if they get distracted or have a camera malfunction? If it's important for you to have high-quality images and hundreds of great shots, hire a pro. You'll be glad you did when you see your picture-perfect album.
Coordinating it Yourself: You've organized every minute detail so far, so why shouldn't you be in charge on the wedding day? Because you won't be able to relax. Hiring a coordinator for the day can be a lifesaver. While you're getting pampered, they'll be setting up and averting any crisis that may occur. When everything isn't going perfectly, you'll be none the wiser. Trust us -- peace of mind is worth the extra expense.
Your Centerpieces: A beautiful centerpiece sets the mood of the reception. From sophisticated to fun, you can create a setup that will wow your guests -- with a florist's help, of course! Flowers can cost upward of $3,000, depending on your taste and the season. Although it's a larger part of the budget, it's worth every penny. Your wedding florist will ensure that you get exquisite displays filled with the freshest blooms.
Your Catering: Catering a large-scale party is a huge undertaking, even for a culinary whiz. You'll be hard-pressed to get enough food together for a hundred people and keep it hot -- even if you make the best dish in town. And, once you get it made, you'll need a reliable staff to serve it. Caterers are trained to make it happen; they have the support staff to serve you and your guests in a timely manner.

Your Music: It's tempting to rock out to your favorite tunes, and you might think it's easy to do so with an iPod. Not quite. You'll be limited to the music that you love as a couple, not necessarily what everyone else will like, and you'll be stuck with the premade playlist. Music pros are trained to read the dance floor. They can speed it up or slow it down so that your guests are footloose into the wee hours.

Wedding Entertainment Trends 2011

2010-12-20T11:26:00.000-05:00

Entertainment at your wedding is important. Not only does it set the mood for the evening party, but also tells your guests a lot about what you like. It’s also give rise to great memories and helps people to mix. There are lots of different types of entertainment, that can span the whole day. Here are some of our predictions for 2011…
Jazz bands and DJs are still staple parts of wedding entertainment. People love a good dance, but if you want something different, how about…
* Marryoke – our big discovery of 2010 – we think it’s just going to get better in 2011. Better songs, better choreography, better results!
* The photo booth has come from the US – we think it’ll stay around in the UK in 2011.
* Casinos – we mentioned Las Vegas style weddings, so how about hiring out a full casino for some fun!
* Wedding karaoke – if you’re game for a laugh, this could be real fun!
* Games – great for garden parties or wedding venues with beautiful grounds. Croquet is an especially nice idea for a vintage-style wedding!
* If you’re going for a themed wedding, what about some themed dancers?
There are lots of other ideas that could work according to your style and the style of the day. Let us know how you chose your wedding entertainment!
Source: Zankyou.com

Wedding trends for 2011

2010-12-19T12:51:00.000-05:00

The summer’s over, there are still weddings taking place, but those of you planning a wedding are looking forward to 2011. So how about some thoughts on wedding trends for 2011. Here are some things we’ve noticed, some things we’ve been told and some things we think you’ll love!!!
* Lots of mermaid style dresses in collections – we’re getting womanly again!

City-style weddings, à la Carrie & Big

* City-style weddings, with short or tea-length dresses tie up nicely with the less fuss of the credit-crunch times
* Wedding dresses with pockets – the Zk team really loves this one and are sorry that some of us are already married as we would definitely have had pockets on our wedding dresses if we were getting married in 2011 (right, Mariana?!)
* Vintage – it’s still here, you still love it
* Embellishment on dresses in the hottest 2011 collections is still romantic – flowers, frills and orgaaaanza, darling!
* DIY – doing things yourself, like making some of the decoration or even your own make-up, means supreme control over details. But remember, it’s all about balance and specialists are worth it because they can give the support and fresh ideas that have come through years of experience in bridal. Also, delegating really is clever…
* Being a bride doesn’t have to be stressful – gone are the days of running around like a headless chicken! iPhone apps and coaching sessions will help you keep control.
* Varied table sizes and shapes at the reception – we’re big fans of long tea-party style tables, but this is hot from the US. The same goes for chairs – they shouldn’t be the same! It will be interesting to see how regular venues cope with this one.
* Honeyweekends – we discovered it and we’re loving it!
* Navy blue – I’m seeing it all over the place, mothers-of-the-bride, bridesmaids. I love it!

ZAHARA'S EVENTS & DESIGN LAUNCH PARTY!

2010-10-28T21:09:00.000-04:00

STOP BY FOR A

" SWEET TREAT "

AS WE CELEBRATE THE LAUNCH

ZAHARA'S EVENTS & DESIGN

SATURDAY NOV 6TH 2010

12PM-6PM

@ LOFT 1351 ,

1351 BROAD ST, RICHMOND, VA

JOIN US AS WE CELEBRATE, MINGLE, LAUGH, & EAT SWEET TREATS

* THERE WILL BE A RAFFLE PRIZE & GIVEAWAYS*

A lush Vampire -Style Dinner Party

2010-10-25T12:43:00.000-04:00

Happy Monday Everyone i know i've been missing for a while but its time to catch up on some blogs.
In lite of the Halloween Holiday which is right around the corner, i came across this awesome Vampire-themed dinner party
here's some pictures:

Courtney from Pizzazzerie recently styled an AMAZING Vampire-themed dinner party for a Nashville Lifestyles piece… how gorgeous is this?!
The shoot was inspired by Love at First Bite: The Complete Vampire Lover’s Cookbook, which boasts “more than 300 suckulent recipes” {very clever!}. I love this idea for a clever twist on Halloween celebrations… or a fun excuse to celebrate your favorite vampire themed books, movies, or tv shows (and there seem to be, oh… 1 or 2 of those!).

10 Tips For A Great Wedding Menu

2010-10-22T13:16:00.000-04:00

How to create a personalized meal that's tasty and true to you.

1. Serve The Food You Love: include "your" dish from a favorite restaurant.

2. Balance Cocktail Food. offer a variety of meat, fish, and vegetarian options, plus comfort foods people crave,like mini mac-and- cheese.

3. Be Daring. While your goal is to create a menu your guest will enjoy, it's your wedding. So if you feel like being nontraditional go for it !(eg; Latin food station instead of a seated meal)

4. Consider The Theme Of The Day at which the meal will be served - avoid heavy sauces and meats at lunchtime for example

5. Have A Do- Not-Serve List. you hate asparagus or shrimp? Nix it, pronto!

6. Be Realistic. If you have a large head count, the menu needs to be fairly simple. Cheese souffle for 157? only if your guests don't mind waiting and waiting....

7. Ask About The Caterer's Signature Dish. it will be an original creation that she considers her best,

8. Go local and Seasonal. Make menu choices based on the freshest ingredients available in the area where you're marrying.

9. Don't Worry About Repeating an ingredient in the entree that was features in an hors d oeuvre.

10. Be Honest you don't like the caterer's suggestions/ Tell her what you want instead.

How to Come Up With the Best Idea For an Unforgettable Birthday Party

2010-09-28T13:29:00.000-04:00

Birthday parties happen once a year. That is only one day out of three hundred and sixty five (sixty six if it's a leap year) so you want to make it an event to remember. Birthday parties can be celebrated in a number of ways so take the time to plan your event out.

For young kids a theme can be the base of a party. Many young girls like princess parties where they can dress up in girly clothes and be little princesses while enjoying the innocence of their youth. A little tea party can accompany this to make it a memorable event. Little boys might enjoy cars or action figures for example. Try to keep decorations, favors, and even the cake in with the theme. You can do this at home or at another location. Some popular choices may be outdoors at the park where kids can go on the playground.

Games are central to the party as well. Make sure that they are age appropriate. Young teenagers are not going to want to play follow the leader, Simon says, or duck duck goose. Similarly, young children may have problems when it comes to trivia. You want all guests to be on a level playing ground. If the guests vary in ages you could have two games going on at once and split the group up.

Not everyone wants a large party or even a party whatsoever. Instead, a lot of people opt to go an activity with a few of their closest friends and family. A spa day for a few girls might work for a young teen group of girls. A day at the race track might work for young teen boys. They could also visit the arcade or go on the go karts. Following the exciting day out, a simple meal may follow included with a sleep over. A bunch of movies could be rented and the kids could stay the night talking and playing while they enjoy some comedies. Scary movies are also a huge hit if everyone in the group can handle it.

Some people don't like a lot of people around and instead want a simple experience. Sometimes a simple dinner with family works to celebrate the occasion and stacks up just as fun as a party. Each person's tastes are individual and must work for them. Don't push a party idea on someone who doesn't want one. The birthday party or event needs to focus on the needs of the person receiving the celebration.

A catering service can be used to improve or enhance your birthday party experience. You are relieved of any stress to preparing food and if you get the right catering service they will also offer to include additional food. If you find the right caterer, you may luck out with them providing you a set of decorations and setting up the party for you while you worry about more important things like picking out the perfect gift or spending time with your loved ones.

10 Ways To Make Your Wedding Unique

2010-09-28T13:10:00.002-04:00

Our all-time favorite ways to inject the wedding with a shot of personality

1. Give a custom flourish to all your printed material with your own logo- an image that's meaningful to you and your spouse, like a hobby or place. see loveletterslogos.com for ideas

2. Give each reception table a name -(for example, " Richmond Avenue") that relates to your courtship. have a tent card on the table with a short explanation: " We had our first apartment here-a 6th flr, 300 sq ft walk- up"

3. Walk down the aisle to a song (with slow tempo) that is meaningful when you were dating.

4. Make sure the dance floor is packed by asking invitees to jot down 3 favorite songs on the RSVP card, give you DJ the play list.

5. Got a cultural dance that's a favorite at family weddings?
From the terantella (Italian) to the money dance (Cuban). ethnic jigs give a party a distinctive flavor.

6. Coordinate the sweets bar with your wedding colors- pink & green lollipops, taffy, M&M, buy in bulk at Candywarehouse.com, Candyfavorites.com, or Economycandy.com

7. For your vows, consider words he wrote in a valentine card, or something from a love note you sent him (but nothing to personal)

8. If white isn't your thing, opt for an evening gown in your favorite color. To stand out as the Bride, wear a tiara.

9. Customize simple satin pumps with shoe jewelry such as rhinestone ribbons. custom-crystals.com or advantagebridal.com

10. If yours is a destination wedding fill welcome basket with locally made crafts, food, & drinks.

The top 10 places to getaway with your girlfriends in the U.S.

2010-09-23T11:35:00.000-04:00

Thinking about just what you and girlies can do for an ultimate bridal/ bachelorette weekend getaway? well look no further, the fine folks over at HotelsCombined.com, a search engine and price aggregator for hotels, put together this list based on what women like to do on vacation from spa retreats and shopping trips to wine tasting tours and nightlife escapes. All are within the continental U.S. so it's likely that you can find one within driving distance so you can save on airfare. See the results below and their explanations:

1. The Four Seasons Las Vegas, Nevada Sin City is a favorite destination for women looking for a little self-indulgence. The Four Seasons tempts its female guests with a Girlfriends Getaway package that includes in-room cocktails and immediate access to world-class gaming.
2. The Omphoy Ocean Resort
Palm Beach, Florida
This iconic beach town that inspired the whimsical fashions of Lily Pulitzer welcomes trendsetters to the new Omphoy Ocean Resort, which features yoga sessions on the beach and private spa treatments on oceanfront terraces.
3. The Fairmont Heritage Place
San Francisco, California
From trendy bistros to exemplar seafood, San Francisco offers foodies the chance to experience culinary masterpieces and chocolate delights found all around this Ghirardelli Square hotel.
4. Hyatt Place Austin Arborteum
Austin, Texas
Shopaholics in need of retail therapy appreciate this central location next to three upscale malls in this emerging shopping haven. A little further south, girlfriends discover Austin's distinguished SoCo district, full of bohemian shops and hip boutiques.
5. Hotel Vintage Plaza
Portland, Oregon
For wine connoisseurs, the Hotel Vintage Plaza private wine room and nightly wine hour perfectly complement a relaxing outing in Oregon's renowned wine country.
6. Hotel Victor in South Beach
Miami, Florida
Home of "fruit caviar" cocktails and the hottest local DJs, the Hotel Victor brings the vibrancy of Miami nightlife right to its doorstep. With Friday night Ice Bar Chill-Outs and Saturday night Sunset Sessions, girlfriends can dance the night away.
7. The Biltmore Inn
Asheville, North Carolina
This luxurious inn located on the historic, 8,000-acre Biltmore Estate, is the ultimate secluded escape. Surrounded by beautiful wooded scenery in the heart of the Great Smokey Mountains, women in need of rejuvenation will leave feeling refreshed and revitalized.
8. The Roosevelt Hotel
New York, New York
After exploring the Guggenheim Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, art lovers staying at this historic hotel take advantage of a special Opera package that includes tickets to Broadway's longest running musical, the Phantom of the Opera.
9. Stoweflake Mountain Resort & Spa
Stowe, Vermont
Women of all ages will fall in love with New England's premier spa/resort destination, which treats mind, body, and soul via Sound Therapy body tuning and the ancient art of Ayurvedic herbal oil treatments.
10. River Street Inn
Savannah, Georgia
Experience the charm of Savannah's southern hospitality with the River Street Inn Eat & Sleep Southern Package. Located alongside the country's best antique shops, the Inn provides antique lovers direct access to hundred-year-old armoires and other old-world treasures.

Five Things Your Wedding Photographer MUST Offer

2010-09-15T11:16:00.000-04:00

You're getting married, right? Congratulations! You want your wedding day to be as perfect and beautiful as you've always dreamed. However, if you choose the wrong photographer, your day may be a lot less than perfect, and you may not be satisfied with the images your photographer captures. Bummer. So, how do you choose the right photographer?
Here's how. Make sure your wedding photographer offers you these five things. Then you can relax and feel confident the love, special moments and important details of your wedding day will be captured in beautiful images for a lifetime of memories.

Do you like the photographer's work?
Look at a fairly good selection of the photographers wedding images, not just a few photos on a web site. It's best if you can see at least an album or two and a proof book of a complete wedding. The albums probably represent the best of the photographer's work, and the proof book shows all the typical images he or she captures during a wedding day. How do the images look to you? Are they pleasing to look at? Does the lighting and the color look good to you? Is the photographer's style what you are looking for? Most of our bridal couples are looking for a mix of photojournalistic images and classic posed traditional ones. Make sure your photographer is capable of, and comfortable with, taking the style of images you want for your wedding. If you don't like the photographer's work, there is no need to consider them further. Also, make sure the work you see was done by the photographer who will photograph your wedding. Some studios will show you a lot of good work from various photographers, but will not guarantee you will get the photographer whose work you like the best. Sometimes, a husband and wife team like ours is the best way to be sure the photographer's work you see is the work you will get.
Do you like the photographer's personality and mannerisms?
Is the photographer confident, easy going and not a nervous ninny? Does the photographer have a good sense of humor? Remember, the photographer will be present through most of your wedding day, interacting with you, your wedding party, your family, and your guests. A demanding, inflexible, and uptight photographer can make your day unpleasant. I know you don't want that! Make sure you and your spouse-to-be get along well with the photographer you choose. If the photographer is going to have a second photographer help at your wedding, meet the assistant photographer and make sure you feel comfortable with them also. To get to know your photographer before you choose them, it is really important you meet with them personally. If it is physically impossible to meet with the photographer, you should make sure some of their testimonials from previous clients make you feel comfortable with the photographer's personality.
Does the photographer have a strong sense of professional commitment to photographing your wedding and a professional work ethic?
Does the photographer use professional cameras, lenses and flash systems? Does he or she have at least some lenses that will produce good images in low light situations (f2.8 aperture)? Does the photographer use a soft box over the flash and keep the flash above the lens on both horizontal and vertical photos to minimize shadows in their images? Does he or she always bring a complete set of backup equipment, or bring a second photographer with another set of equipment, to every wedding? How will the photographer and their assistant be dressed on your wedding day? Ask them. Hopefully, they will professional enough to arrive dressed in a tux, suit, or dressy dress. Although, if your photographer is a man and he says he's coming in a dressy dress, you might worry a little about that :-). You should get the feeling that your photographer is dedicated to making sure your wedding day is wonderful, and that all of the love, emotions and important details will be captured in images you will be able to enjoy for the rest of your life.
Does your photographer have the experience to anticipate all the good things that will happen on your wedding day, and the experience to deal with the bad things that could happen also?
An experienced photographer will have photographed enough weddings to anticipate and capture special moments during your day, and the important details that may easily be missed by a "newbie". An experienced photographer also knows that things do go wrong sometimes and will be able to anticipate and deal with them, often without you even knowing that something went wrong. That's why a complete set of backup equipment is necessary. My little kit of duct tape, extra cables, pen knife with scissors, and band-aids has been a life saver several times.
Does your photographer offer you the right value?
Not the right price, but, the right value. If your photographer doesn't have all of the above four characteristics, it may not matter what their prices are. If the photographer has all four, that's a big part of the value they offer you. In this case, the price should be less important. Just make sure your photographer will provide what is really important to you and is upfront with you about costs for everything you want. Someone who offers a "low" price up front may sound attractive. But, things change when you find they charge extra for every location stop, for the digital image files, for a studio set up at the reception, and so on. A photographer who charges twice as much, but includes almost everything, can often be a better value for you.

So, there you have it. Choose your wedding photographer based on the above five factors, and you will go a long way toward having the wedding of your dreams. Good luck and congratulations again.
Paul Kaliher
SMS Design Wedding Photography and Videography
630-416-6843

Weekend Adventures-A New Trend in Bachelor Parties

2010-09-15T11:14:00.000-04:00

Bachelor parties are about guys getting together, sharing old stories, and maybe creating some new ones. They are a chance for the best man to send the groom off in style, in appreciation for years of friendship. Traditionally, this has involved drinking one's fair share of alcohol, heading off to a gentleman's club, and waking up the next morning in a strange place with a new tattoo. Recently, a new trend has emerged. Guys are now spending weekends immersed in outdoor adventures: leaping out of airplanes, roping cattle, reeling in trophy fish, and riding wild whitewater.
Picture it: 10 buddies sitting in a rubber raft, getting tossed back and forth, and paddling like crazy through a menacing drop-off the guides call, "The Meat Grinder." Besides whitewater rafting, parties can perform airborne ballets after leaping from planes at 10,000 feet, reel in fish ranging from 30 lb king salmon to 300 lb sharks, or drive hundreds of cattle alongside real-life cowboys. As an added bonus, guys return from the adventure, with pictures, mementoes, and memories that will always remain special.
Although these adventures bring a fresh, new idea to the bachelor party concept, groups are given many opportunities to do some old-school partying. Typically, the extreme adventure locations are located off the beaten path, requiring a couple-days excursion. Everyone usually congregates in a major city near the adventure site and spends the first night enjoying the urban nightlife. Day Two kicks off with an early morning rise, followed by a trip out into the wild for the adventure activity.
Some detailed examples of adventure-based bachelor parties paint a clear picture of exactly how extreme adventure combines with traditional fun to produce an unforgettable experience.
Whitewater Rafting
Whitewater rafting is an adventure that can take place in multiple locations across the country. As long as there is a flowing river, someone will put a boat in it. The trick is finding the rivers that will take you to the edge, without throwing you over it. Under the guidance of an adventure expert, guys paddle, dodge, and hold on through class IV and V rapids, all while taking in spectacular views of the scenic beauty and wildlife. To compliment the adventure, the group spends the first night at an upscale hotel in a bustling downtown area and the second night in more rustic accommodations surrounded by nature. This combination creates a solid mix of fun and adventure.
Cattle Wrangling
Imagine living out the movie, City Slickers. Saddle-up the crew, ride the open range like old-time cowboys, and drive longhorn cattle through rugged mountain terrain. In the morning, work alongside real cowboys to move the thundering herd to greener pastures. Enjoy the sights and sounds of rolling rivers, towering mountain ranges, and native wildlife while attempting to control the wild herd. After the drive, see if anyone lasts eight seconds on the mechanical bull before taking aim at the skeet shooting range. Recount the day's highlights during a Texas-style-barbecue dinner including steaks, potatoes, and plenty of beer. Before you dive headfirst into the cowboy lifestyle, enjoy a night with upscale hotel accommodations, fine dining, and outstanding nightlife characteristic of the adjacent downtown area.
Charter Fishing
In groups of four to six people, the guys board separate charter boats and compete in a private fishing tournament. Someone not only has the satisfaction of wrestling a trophy fish into the boat, but also the sweet taste of victory in catching the winning fish to beat the rest of the bunch in the tournament. While everybody breathes in the fresh air and takes in picturesque views, the expert captains and crew guide the team to the hot spots and teach the boys how to reel in the big one. After a full day of fishing, camaraderie, and competition, a chef "cooks the catch" at a restaurant overlooking the water. Since most fishing trips are located in beach side towns, nights will be spent at Buffet-like bars sipping Margaritas, watching the fade over the horizon.
Skydiving
What's better than jumping out of a plane, free-falling for over a minute at 120 mph, and seeing for miles in every direction? Doing it all with some of your closest friends. After some basic training, everyone flies to 13,000+ feet and prepares for the jump. Hearts pound, men begin to fade to the back of the line, and adrenaline pumps as everybody peels out of the plane into the open sky. Once everyone has returned safely to Earth, the party begins. The boys enjoy beers in the hanger, a bonfire on the grounds, a delicious catered dinner, and a viewing of the days skydive video. To enhance this exceptional skydiving experience, upscale accommodations, fine dining, and locally distinct nightlife in a lively downtown setting complete the package.
Regardless of the adventure theme you choose, it will be important to make the outing an "experience" rather than just a trip. Answer these questions when planning your weekend to remember:

What adventure activity is the group interested in?
What areas of the country offer this type of activity during the group's seasonal timeframe?
Is there a major city near the event where people can fly to at a reasonable price?
What hotels offer high-class accommodations and fit the group's price range?
Is there a restaurant with a private banquet facility near the hotel, where champagne toasts and words of encouragement can be uttered without upsetting the other patrons?
What are the best bars?
How will the group get from the hotel to the adventure outfitter?
If the adventure is outside of the city, where will the group stay the second night?

These are just some of the questions that will come up as the event planning takes shape. The most important part of the trip is making sure the groom has a great time. So, if you are the best man, make sure to have his best interests in mind at all times. If all goes as planned, you will have successfully orchestrated a weekend filled with memories to last a lifetime and maybe even overcome some fears along the way.
Darren Hitz is the Founder of Adventure Bachelor Party (ABP). ABP plans unique, adventure-based trips for groups of friends looking to make great memories. By planning everything from the lodging to the adventure, ABP allows the groom and his friends to enjoy the experience without all the worries and hassle of planning a group trip. He explains Adventure Bachelor Party ideas below:

4 Tips to a Beautiful Wedding Reception

2010-08-23T11:07:00.000-04:00

Tip of the Week

Happy Mondays Guys! Hope everyone had a wonderful weekend .
To start the week off here's 4 tips to a beautiful Wedding Reception

Written by: Michele Holland
#1 – Invest the time
Take the time to experiment, and really try things out before deciding on your overall wedding décor, table linens, etc. Some colors, fabrics and textures look completely different in different lighting, so how it looks in the bright fluorescent lights of the showroom is NOT how it will look in your dim, candlelit reception room.
#2 – Come prepared
When you meet with your wedding designer and/or linens provider, it’s most helpful and efficient if you come armed with as much detail as possible about your wedding, such as photos of your wedding dress and bridesmaids’ attire, any cake or floral information you have and so on. Also, if you have a specific color in mind, bring in an actual sample – verbal descriptions just don’t work!
#3 – Handle strong color with care
If you love a bright, vivid color but are concerned about it being “too much,” consider using it as an accent color in the room instead, such as in the napkins and chair ties. If it’s a small wedding, bright fuchsia table linens may work, but a grand ballroom filled with 40 hot pink tables may be a bit overwhelming.
#4 – Make your own unique color
By experimenting with different sheers placed over various colored fabrics, you may find your own unique combination that gives you the look you want. Ideally, do this in the same lighting that your reception will be in for an accurate vision!

Six Tips For A Worry-Free Wedding

2010-08-16T20:29:00.000-04:00

Advice Mondays

Now as we all know once the engagement period is over we usually cant wait to get started on planning the big day. There's the date, location, theme, cake ..... and the list goes on, its all about details and more details.
From getting everyone to the church on time to making sure the centerpieces look stunning, planning the details of your wedding day can be stressful. Came across some of these tips for a worry-free wedding day.

Details, details, details! From the perfect menu to the beautiful centerpieces, there are so many details to take care of when planning your dream wedding. But what happens when your perfect wedding is not so perfect? Let’s face it. There are plenty of opportunities for things to go awry. Even with the best-laid plans, things are bound to happen. But don’t worry. Here are some tips to help you panic-proof your wedding.

1. Don’t make any verbal agreements. Have everything in writing. Be specific about the items you want AND the things you don’t want. For example, if you don’t want to see a lot of posed pictures in your wedding photo album, it’s best to be specific about that and request more candid photos.

2. On the day of the wedding, bring along a survival kit for those little emergencies. Include a needle and thread, aspirin, safety pins, nail polish, hairpins, extra pantyhose and some hard candy or breath mints.

3. Do a test run. Practice driving the route to the ceremony at the time of day and day of week of your wedding. Check out traffic patterns, construction delays, etc. That way you’ll minimize surprises and will know how much time you’ll need to get to there.

4. Call all your wedding vendors and verify your bookings two or three days before the wedding. Confirm the time, date, location of the wedding and reception, directions to the sites and the services or items they'll be providing. A good way to know you are both on the same page is to have them read back the instructions from their notes.

5. Assign someone to take care of the last minute details, such as helping the bridal party get dressed, running errands to the store, etc. Provide her with the contact numbers for all of the vendors, just in case someone is running late.

6. Don’t wait until the last minute for anything. If possible, take care of as many details well in advance of the wedding. The night before the wedding is not the time to put together 200 wedding favors. Limit yourself to just a few small tasks and leave the rest of the day to relax.

What’s the best wedding day stress reliever? Realizing that, while you will have a wonderful day, a beautiful day or even a memorable day, it will most likely not be a perfect day. Try not to make a big deal about things and take it all in stride. Sometimes, it’s the quirky things that go wrong that help make your day memorable. Stressing over every detail can take the joy out of the wedding and the planning process. The most important thing to remember is that you are marrying the man of your dreams, and at the end of the day, that’s all that really matters.

By: Karen Sullen
My Wedding Favors

THIS WEEKEND!

2010-08-13T12:39:00.000-04:00

This Sunday Zahara's Events & Design will be at the Elegance in Bridal and Home Expo in Washington, D.C at the Verizon Center (601 F St NW). Doors open at 1PM. Early bird tickets are $15 and $25 at the door.

The first 300 brides that pre-register and buy tickets will receive free wedding band sets. In addition, the first 500 brides that pre-register and buy tickets will receive an 8 day Mexico trip certificate for up to 4 people!

Hope to see you there!

Midweek Weddings

2010-08-09T11:25:00.002-04:00

Hey guys, Happy Monday ! Hope everyone had a wonderful weekend, i know i sure did.
Just trying to enjoy every bit of the last summer days.

Enough about me, lets get back to business.....

I know in these trying times we are all looking for ways to cut cost especially when it comes to planning a wedding, we want the wedding we always dream of but our pockets just cant seem to allow us. But don't be discourage., there are many ways to have that dream wedding without having to break the bank. Take a look at this article i found today, which had a great idea for saving some money.

Plan A Midweek Wedding For Substantial Savings

Ten years ago, the idea of planning a weekday wedding was unthinkable. Today, due in large part to the substantial savings involved, it has become not only commonplace, but has spurred another wedding industry trend.

The concept of midweek weddings always has been a part of European tradition, and Manhattan society picked up on it at least two decades ago. The custom has slowly made it's way throughout the country.

For Stephanie Alswang and her husband, photographers in Livingston, New Jersey, it was a second marriage for both of them. They wanted to celebrate grandly, but cost was a major consideration. Additionally, since weekends were their busiest times, with weddings and other family celebrations that require photography, a personal weekend wedding was virtually impossible.

The Alswangs represent the thousands of couples a year who are opting for weeknight weddings. During the week, couples are able to enjoy the elegance of every weekend amenity, every desired extra, at considerably lower pricing. The cocktail hour and dinner menus are usually the same, the white glove service is the same, and, of course, the facilities are the same. Only the payment amount is different.

By opting for a Thursday "or any weekday" wedding date opens a world of possibilities for couples and parents who are planning an affair. For the majority of couples who announce engagements a year or even two years before a wedding, weekend dates at well-known facilities throughout the major metropolitan areas are already reserved, especially during the high-volume months of April through November.

If the bride and groom and their respective families are flexible, they can save themselves a lot of legwork and phone work, and will not need to settle for vendor alternatives. For a weeknight wedding, they have a strong chance of obtaining their first-choice musicians and others who can fulfill their wedding dreams. It all falls into place.

Midweek also works well for couples who want weddings with all the trimmings soon after becoming engaged, and cannot book a weekend easily. Thursdays are usually available within four to six months and off-season midweek weddings are even more cost-effective.

For those getting married, and for those attending, a weeknight wedding can add spark to a normal workaday week. Generally, most invitees know about the date far enough in advance to work out their personal schedules. If they want to be there, they will. And once the festivities begin, bridal parties and guests are aware only of the elegant surroundings, and they don't think about what day of the week it is.

When the Alswangs sent out their engagement announcements, they included a "save the date" segment. Their friends and family knew well ahead of time that they were getting married on a Thursday, and were able to arrange to travel earlier or to arrange to leave work early, if necessary. There wasn't anyone who could not come because of the date. In fact, many of them were happy to start the weekend as early as Wednesday, and they combined the wedding with other vacation plans. It also allowed the newlyweds to use Friday for tying up loose ends before leaving on their honeymoon the next day.

Compliments of Barry Ress
The Crystal Plaza

the 9th Elegance in Bridal Show

2010-08-09T09:35:00.004-04:00

Congratulation to all my New Brides!

I just want to thank all the new Brides and their family for all the support yesterday at the 9th Elegance in Bridal Show. We had a great turn out and lots of Fun. Hope the show was very helpful with all of your wedding planning.

And The winner of the $100 voucher off of our Day of Coordination Package is :
Josette Brown of C'ville, Va

Congratulation Josette we look forward in working with you and creating the wedding of your dreams, just how you have planned it. Give us call so we can get started.

10 Things Every Bride Needs To Know

2010-08-06T11:01:00.004-04:00

Found this on thebudgetbrideshandbook.blogspot.com

10 Things Every Budget Bride Should Know When GoingBridal Dress Shopping1. Before you step into any bridal shop do your homework. Google the stores you are thinking about visiting read other's comments on their experience. Also note their rules, there are many bridal shops that you cannot take pictures in the dresses. This will prepare you for what you may encounter during your appointment.2. When scheduling the appointment make sure that you ask about the time allotted to you for your appointment. Many brides don't realizae that your usually allotted between an hour to two hours for bridal appointments. Which is not a lot of time. So have a fifty person party full of indecisive people is not the way to go. In most cases, you will leave the bridal shop frustrated and confused. Bring the people who A) are paying for the dress and B) people whose opinion you highly respect.3. Come to your bridal appointment with pictures (from magazines, the internet, etc.) so that the consultant has a clear understanding of what you are looking for. There is nothing like have an idea in your head that you cannot describe to someone else. Pictures always help to bridge that gap.4. I know that many of you may shy away from this tip but allow the consultant to go in the room with you and help you in and out of the dress. This is the time that the consultant takes to learn more about you, your wedding and the dynamics that is keeping it all together. This will help her/him to help you find the dress of your dress. When you have a friend or family member help you it waste valuable time that the consultant can be using to pinpoint the right dress for you.5. In most cases, know that the consultant is experience in helping brides find there perfect dress. Take note of the suggestions she makes about dresses that fit your silhouette or compliment the type of event that your going to have. For example, you maybe a bride who wants a mermaid dress but you do not have any hips. The consultant will probably suggest an A-line or ball gown dress that may work better for you.6. KNOW that you need SIX to NINE MONTHS in order to find, select, order your dress and make alterations. Many brides wait till two or three months before the wedding to purchase their dress not realizing that they are not allocating enough time to receive the dress from the manufacture plus the time it takes for alterations. (If you wait too long there many also be a rush shipping fee that you may have to pay which may take you over your budget.)7. Some bridal shops charge a fee for you to make an appointment so make sure you find that out upfront. This will allow you to visit the bridal shops who do not have a fee first. You never know you may find your dress there and will not need to lose money or feel obligated to go to those pay upfront appointments.8. If possible before purchasing a dress always ask for alterations to come and give you an estimated price on what alterations will cost you. This will help to give you an over all view of how much you will actually be spending for the cost of your wedding attire.9. Some bridal shops also offer discounts on the days that you purchase your wedding dress. BUY the accessories the same day. It does not make sense to lose free money in discounts thinking I can find it somewhere cheaper. Listen Boo, you cannot get a bling - out veil and tiara for $50. It will make your whole wedding day ensemble look cheap and tacky. Like Nike says, Just Do It.10. Be very conscience of your timing!!! Timing is a huge issue in wedding dress shopping. Don't be caught out there spending at the minimum $65 (rushing shipping $40 and alterations $25) because you procasinated or could not make up your mind). This is $65 before you purchase the dress or made an alterations appointment.11. YOU ARE NOT FAT!!! Ok I Know I Know.... every woman is self conscious about something but this is definitely not the time to be. If you have to go two sizes up to a dress that actually fits then do it. You will potentially spend more money in exchanging the dress or hospital bills because you passed the hell out since you could not breath in that too small dress. It is better to always go bigger and have alterations than to go to small.

Weekend Events

2010-08-06T10:45:00.003-04:00

Hey Bloggers! Don't forget Zahara's Events & Design will be at the 9th Elegance in Bridal Show this Sunday!

Specialty: Come to the 9th Elegance in Bridal Show with your wedding thoughts & leave with your wedding planned. Enjoy a fabulous fashion show by Amanda's Touch Bridal and Formal wear showcasing the latest wedding trends for the entire wedding party.

Visit with premier wedding service providers, receive free bridal magazines, taste food samples, enter to win prizes from participating exhibitors & other giveaways.

Date: August 8, 2010

Time: 1pm - 5pm

Ticket Price: $10 at the door, $7 with advance purchase

Address: Doubletree Hotel, 990 Hilton Heights Road, Charlottesville, VA, 22901 MAP IT!

Specialty Door Prize: The first 100 couples will receive free wedding band sets and the 1st 300 brides and/or grooms will receive a 3 day, 2 night all-inclusive honeymoon trip certificate.

Website: eleganceinbridalshow.com

Phone: 804.675.2900/888.744.2836

Low Prices, High Quality!!

2010-08-06T10:23:00.003-04:00

Found this article on Budget-Bride.com and I thought it was quite interesting. Here are some tips to keep your prices low and quality high when shopping around!

Florists often do not price their wedding flower picture books because they alter the price depending of yours and your mother's appearance. Leave your engagement ring, gold watches and furs at home!

A rose doesn't cost a florist any more to purchase during the wedding season than any other time (except Valentines Day)

The cost of a fresh cymbidium orchid is low? They range from $1.50 to $3.00 per bloom and less when purchased by the stem. Most florists will have you believe these are rare flowers and expensive. Actually they are one of the easiest to buy and available all year round!

A wedding veil usually only costs $20 to $30 in supplies to make!

Some hotels will waive the rental cost of the banquet rooms if you use their caterer!

If a florist gives you the name of a flower that no other florist has heard of, that is most likely because it doesn't exist. If you can't order it anywhere else, the florist forces you to do business with them.

The materials in a ring pillow generally cost no more than $7 to $10 and a garter no more than $3 to $5.

There is no such thing as a three thousand dollar wedding dress, only a three thousand dollar price tag? Check for designer copies, rentals and outlets before you send a famous bridal gown designer of his next holiday!

Department store portrait studios have beautiful wedding backdrops and will accommodate a variety of photos for a fraction of the price.

Most flower shops charge three times the labor cost necessary because it takes them longer due to lack of training to make your bouquet?

Most florists are inefficient in ordering the accurate amount of fresh product for your wedding and usually charge the bride accordingly so the florist doesn't assume a loss.

Florists pay more for a longer stemmed rose than a shorter stem. Only shorter stems are necessary for bridal bouquets, but often florists will charge brides for premium long stems and design with short stems.

Fresh gardenias will turn brown if touched by the human hand. This makes them highly expensive. Silk gardenias look the same, without the risk and expense when designed with fresh greens,

DIY Wedding Wednesday inspiration!

2010-08-05T14:10:00.004-04:00

Hey guys its another DIY Wedding Wednesday inspiration!

I came across these cute DIY Wedding pom poms and just had to share them with all my DIY brides. They have so many creative uses… hung above tables, chair aisle decor, or an alternative to the expensive flower poms that flower girls use to walk down the aisle.

Supplies: Fabric, scissors, hot glue gun, and chinese lanterns.

Step 1: Cut circles out of fabric.

Step 2: Fold the circle in half and put a little hot glue on the center, then fold over to secure.

Step 3: Apply more hot glue to the bottom of the folded circle.

Step 4: Press the bottom of the folded circle with the hot glue onto the chinese lantern.

Step 5: Repeat these steps until the whole lantern is covered. Once finished, attached some fabric to the metal frame of the lantern to hang.

Pop Up Solar Party! Boxman Studios Shipping Container

2010-08-05T11:01:00.004-04:00

Hey guy i saw this cute New Thing that replaces the old boring tent for out door parties. Imagine your own chic modern venue right in your own private out door space.
It's so Awesome!

via www.boxmanstudios.com

Wow! Do you have a empty lot or large grassy field? If so, have a sustainable party by checking out these solar powered pop up mobile venues disguised as shipping containers. Like a transformer, the container opens up to reveal a super hip bar, bamboo dancefloor and a modern option to having a tent.

9th Elegance in Bridal Show

2010-07-29T11:33:00.001-04:00

Hey guys come join us as we inspire new brides at the 9th Elegance in Bridal Show!

Specialty: Come to the 9th Elegance in Bridal Show with your wedding thoughts & leave with your wedding planned. Enjoy a fabulous fashion show by Amanda’s Touch Bridal and Formal wear showcasing the latest wedding trends for the entire wedding party.

Visit with premier wedding service providers, receive free bridal magazines, taste food samples, enter to win prizes from participating exhibitors & other giveaways.

Date: August 08, 2010
Time: 1pm-5pm
Ticket Price: $10 at the door, $7 with advance purchase
Address: Doubletree Hotel, 990 Hilton Heights Road, Charlottesville, VA, 22901 MAP IT!
Specialty Door Prize: The first 100 couples will receive free wedding band sets and the 1st 300 brides and or grooms will receive 3 day 2 night All inclusive Honeymoon Trips Certificates.

Web Site : www.eleganceinbridalshow.com
Phone: 804.675.2900/888.744.2836

Come Join Us!

2010-07-23T13:39:00.002-04:00

Come Join Us August 8th 2010 at the 9th Elegance in Bridal Show in Charlottesville,Va

Region: Central Virginia
Locality: Charlottesville City

Doubletree Hotel Charlottesville
990 Hilton Heights Road
Charlottesville, VA 22901

Driving Directions | What's Nearby

Come to the 9th Elegance in Bridal Show with your wedding thoughts & leave with your wedding planned. Enjoy a fabulous fashion show by Amanda’s Touch Bridal and Formal wear showcasing the latest wedding trends for the entire wedding party.
Visit with premier wedding service providers, receive free bridal magazines, taste food samples, enter to win prizes from participating exhibitors & other giveaways.
The first 100 couples will receive free wedding band sets and the 1st 300 brides and or grooms will receive 3 day 2 night All inclusive Honeymoon Trips Certificates.

Date/Hours:
Sunday, August 08, 2010 (1:00 PM-5:00 PM)

Admission Fee: $10.00

"Budget Bride"

2010-07-23T11:47:00.001-04:00

I came across this post today and just had to share it with you guys.

A ruthless discussion of the term ‘Budget Bride’ and wedding decision making
by:Andy Ebon
The Wedding Marketing

I only have $500. Will you take it?

A couple of days ago, I posted an item about the differences between money (price), value, budget and result. It generated lots of traffic, a comment or two, and plenty of direct email.

It also caused me to consider the phrase, ‘budget bride.’ Along with DIY Bride, these are two of the most annoying and poorly used descriptors in the wedding industry. To a great degree, I lay that at the feet of my friends in mass media for the wedding industry. Mass media tends to be a popularization tool as much as an information source. If you repeat a phrase, such as ‘budget bride,’ often enough, it becomes part of the wedding lexicon, for better for worse.

The problem with these phrases is they paint the bride’s resources with the grayest of brush strokes. So, at the risk of being more precise, I’ll break it down from my experience.

* DIY Bride: (Budget: under $5000) Someone who probably doesn’t have the resources to get married just yet and is likely to turn most of her wedding into an Arts and Crafts project.
* Low Budget Bride (Budget: $5000 – $14,999) Has the resources, but will have to make some tough decisions on the reception. The big conundrum is whether to economize across the board or cut in specific areas, and not others.
* Statistically Average Bride: (Budget: $15,000 – $34,999) Has the resources to do a nice job on the reception. Her biggest decision should be ‘How many guests can we invite to have a nice reception?’
* High Budget Bride (Budget: $35,000 – $60,000): Has more than enough money to do great things. Her biggest challenge is not to make bad choices among wedding vendors, irrespective of money.
* Luxury Bride (Budget: more than $60,000): Daddio has wads of cash and she wants to be awash in greenbacks. Not all brides in this financial category are Bridezillas, but the risk and tendency is greater than in any of the lower tiers. Bridezillas almost always make bad decisions. It’s in their DNA.

A budget is not:

* … is not throwing a dart at a target.
* … budget is not the total amount in the parent’s bank account or your bank account.
* … budget is not what one or more girlfriends spent on their wedding.
* … is not necessarily what you see on Platinum Weddings or Get Married TV (those are inspirations)

A budget is:

* A study of the range of what wedding products and services cost in your area, balanced against your tastes, inspirations and fantasies.
* Factored by the number of guests you choose to invite.

A line budget item is not:

* “I only have $750 left for videography. Will you take that?”
* “Oh, my third cousin, Oscar, is going to take the photos.”

A budget is:

* $1 Million
* $50,000
* $25,000
* $7,500
* $3,000

Budget does not necessarily mean low budget. A budget can be…

* A specific dollar amount or less
* A specific dollar amount or more
* A range from $X to $Y (this is the preferred budget)
* Money is no object (must be the truth)

The Wedding Report publishes ongoing data about spending in the wedding industry. It consistently reports that brides spend close to 50% more than they had budgeted for the wedding, with an average wedding expense running just under $30,000. This shows a major discrepancy between the original money allotted, from reality of their desires.

I would assert the reason for this is that their original money allotment was not a budget at all. It was dart throwing at a bank book.

Here’s the challenge from every wedding professional, wedding media outlet, and industry trade association:

* Clearly delineate what it means to be a professional in your category of the wedding industry, from the standpoint of ‘benefits to the bride.’
* Explain the relationship (if any) of your business category to others. Such as the interactions between entertainer, photographer, videographer and caterer/venue. Or flowers and cake.
* Explain the Truth or Consequences and effect of making a sub-standard choice.

The naked truth about satisfaction vs. money spent: When a wedding day is over, either the bride and groom are happy with a particular product or service or they are not. A vendor is not wearing a price tag around their neck. There is not a dollar cost at your place card, showing the price of each dinner. There is not a little flag in your slice of cake, showing its cost plus a cake cutting fee.

In retrospect, most wedding couples can point out decisions they made, that were off-the-mark. There are hundreds of decisions, big and small, involved in a wedding. Amazingly enough, it only takes one or two really bad decisions to create an unhappy outcome. And, amazingly enough, a really bad decision is often not related to money.

It would be outstanding if all wedding industry professionals would embrace educating the bride to realistic and exciting expectations, rather than than just fanning the flames of fairy tale dreams. It is true that if the wedding budget is spent disproportionately, bad things usually happen.

A bride with $12,000 to spend, should be able to experience as much happiness on her wedding day as one with $50,000. But that supposes she has enough information, common sense, and critical thinking to make consistently good decisions, and then does so.

Come to think of it, that’s a pretty good operational mission statement for the wedding industry.

Don’t you agree?

Andy Ebon
The Wedding Marketing

2010-07-22T11:07:00.002-04:00

Came across this post today on Bridal Tweet and wanted to share with all my brides.

Wedding Dress: What's in a Color?
Why are brides-to-be so fearful of colourful wedding gowns? Most think it means impurity to not wear white on your wedding day. Actually the past tradition was not actually about the gown but instead about the veil. More specifically the length of the veil. A virgin bride would cover her full face and neck. Today the veil still represents innocence, and modesty.

More brides opt out of the tradition wearing veils of all lengths and colours, or not wearing a veil at all. Thankfully the wedding dress is shifting from the all traditional white to. White wedding gowns are gorgeous but colour can be just as beautiful.

Let's explore the colourful wedding gown:

Touch of Black

From Left to Right: Venus Bridal – ve8025 | Sophia Tolli - Peony

Love the colour black? Well why not incorporate it into your wedding dress. With the right theme a touch of black is just what is called for. If you're daring enough to go all black opt for a ball gown or an haute couture gown as they give the right amount of oomph for your wedding day.

Champagne

From Left to Right: San Patrick – Enea | Esmirna

Champagne can be a great alternative to the stark white. It's much softer and subtle, great for a intimate and romantic affair.

Champagne is also a great pair with a bold colour. Don't be afraid to accessories with a great belt or sash.

Flower Power

Jade Daniels - 2082

Flowers, flowers, and more flowers. Yes the all beautiful floral pattern can be used for a wedding gown. Great for a princess feel, and even better if worn in the spring.

Pair it with a bold colour shoe and a flower in the hair and you'll wow everyone when you walk down the aisle.

Silver

From Left to Right: Destinations by Mon Cheri – 110147 | Christianne Brunelle

Who doesn't love silver? What's great about what the wedding industry is offering in silver is that you can go bold, or stay subtle.

Silver is great on it's own. No need to add anything else but your beautiful self.

Gold

From Left to Right: Vera Wang | La Sposa - Fanal

Gold can make any bride shine. A great colour for all seasons, but best in spring and fall.

Can also be paired with a bold colour but for the all natural bride great as an all neutral look.

Red

From Left to Right: Maggie Sottero – Amara Royale | Venus bridal - 9536

Red is very bold and extremely beautiful. It makes a statement and is worn best if your wedding theme offers a neutral palette.

Pick a more neutral colour for your bridesmaids and decor. Go without a veil or try a blusher.

Lilac

From Left to Right: ADK Canada – MD29 TT | Venus Bridal - 889031

A pastel like lilac is best suited for the spring or maybe winter. Very subtle and perfect with bold colours.
Perfect for bride wanting to feel like a princess.

Pink

From Left to Right: ADK Canada – AA77 | MD47 TT

Pink and Gorgeous. When choosing a pink wedding gown be sure to see it in different lighting against your skin tone.

This colour can be paired with both neutrals and a bold colour.

Green

ADK Canada – MD29 TT

It is necessary to go beyond the norms. An all green wedding gown is perfect for a truly unique bride.
Having a garden inspired wedding? This gown is perfect for you.

Another colour to keep with neutrals or pair against a contrasting bold colour like purple or yellow.

Bold and Colourful

Tony Bowls - Test1234

Need to go even more BOLD then green. Try a fantastic colourful wedding gown and walk down the aisle in style.

This is perfect for a destination wedding.

Found you perfect colour but don’t know what style? See this article: Wedding Dresses: Finding the right Wedding Dress

Soccer Theme Baby Shower

2010-07-18T13:02:00.005-04:00

I was asked to host a first baby shower for a friend who is a die heart soccer fan and who had no clue on what to do. The first thing that came to mind was a Soccer theme, but i had no clue myself on how i was going to incorporate it into a baby shower.

These are some of the things i came up with, maybe i can inspire someone else who may happen to come across the same difficulties i did in the begining on a similar theme.
For the centerpieces i ordered soccer vases online at $5 a pieces and decided to put colorful gerber daisy inside and placed it on top of green shreded metalic basket stuffing, which looked like grass. I think it turn out great didn't want it to look to boyish for we still didn't know at the time if it was a boy or girl.
I created a banner using the colors blue and orange for we didn't want the traditional black and white colors and the fact that bright colors are in now. It even worked out better when we later found out it was a BOY!

look out there more to come for these are only the begining to some of my ideas!
Amazing what a little scrapbook paper, glue, ribbon, markers and creativity can do!

America Next Top Model Sweet 16

2010-07-18T12:36:00.005-04:00

When my little fashionista sister came to me and said she wanted a fashion theme Sweet 16 our heads was over loaded with many ideas. We finally settle with an America's Next Top Model theme party and it was the best night she ever had.

The invitations was design as a Tyara mail. Each invite was hand delivered and map out the run down of the nights events.
All the guest had the chance to take pictures on the pink carpet with the birthday girl
The beautiful cake matched the colors of the event to a tee it was just perfect.
the night started off with a spiritual dance from her mother followed by a fashion show , the traditional lighting of the sixteen candles and the father and daughter dance. The night was a blast and most important of all everyone enjoyed themselves.

Sex in the City Bachelorette Party

2010-07-18T12:18:00.007-04:00

It's the night before your big day, the last day your free to let it all go. So why not do it like the girls in Sex In The City and live if up!
Each drink match the each characters personalities.
The invites
The favors: a bag filled with all kinda of girly goodies

weddings

2010-04-30T12:10:00.003-04:00

It's that time of the year ladies, Its Wedding Season!
I came across some amazing decor ideas and wanted to share them with you.

1940's Vintage glam :

Pink & Grey Theme:

Birds and nest Theme:

Pink & Brown:

Peacock Inspired Party

2010-04-02T00:03:00.001-04:00

Peacock Inspired Party....Vellum Paper wrapped around clear vases.
www.CreatingCoutureParties.com

CANDY LAND BIRTHDAY PARTY

2010-04-01T23:18:00.006-04:00

The custom lunchboxes were created by Em Tanner: http://www.emtannerdesigns.com

Saw this and fell in love can't wait to try it!

2010-04-01T22:57:00.000-04:00

I’m in the midst of planning a Woodland Forest themed baby shower for a friend next month, and I gotta tell you this theme ha been so much fun to brainstorm! There are tons of different elements that fit with a forest theme – from nature-inspired elements such as wood, bark, moss, acorns, rocks and toadstools (all covered in this post) to cute “woodland creatures” like squirrels, owls, bunnies, hedgehogs, and more (see post #2, coming soon).

Here are some woodsy & toadstool-inspired items I’ve found so far that would be a good fit for this theme (which would also work well for a first birthday party or autumn get-together!)…

Starting with the image at top: flexible Birch Bark ($4.99); Moss Cobble Balls* ($3.99 – $22); 11.5″ Moss Bunny Topiary ($8.99); 12″ Wood Tree Stump ($19.99); 8″ Wood Tree Stump* ($11.95); and flexible 20×10″ Moss-covered Tree Bark ($11.99).

*I’m thinking that one of the medium Moss Cobble Balls + the 8″ Wood Tree Stump would make for super cute DIY tree centerpieces!

2nd image, above: Natural Bark Slices ($3.99 / 15 pieces) – these could be great for place cards or party favor “tags”; Decorative Acorns, set of 6 ($15); 48″ Flexible Moss Twig Garland ($11.99); Natural Preserved Moss Baskets, set of 2 ($18.99); 11″ Moss-covered Twig Basket ($32); and Flocked Moss Cobbles ($8.99).

owl couple baby shower idea

2010-03-21T14:59:00.004-04:00

Two things that are all the rage for baby showers right now are adorable owls and inviting the boys.

Our “owl couple” baby shower invitation is just too cute from dad’s blue wings to mom’s long eyelashes. This trendy invite coupled, no pun intended {wink}, with pink and orange accents makes for a beautiful and bright setting.

As for the boys, yes, we are inviting our men these days and sharing the spotlight. But remember ladies, just because they are on the guest list doesn’t mean that you have to give up all your girly things, but giving them a pass on the games would be nice of you! {giggle}

On the food, I’ve always found that showers, unless an intimate group, is best served by a cocktail station and an appetizer/treat buffet. Just make sure your mommy has some nice sparkling water to sip. And if you do decide to have a few treats in your menu, consider our fun baby bird egg cupcakes and baby themed sugar cookies (tips on flooding). They will have your mom-to-be glowing.

Tent - Karen Wise photography, Banner - Seven Cupcakes Etsy Shop, Cupcakes - Wish I knew who to give credit to, Plush Owl - mine {wink}, here are the instructions

2010-03-21T14:21:00.003-04:00

these are little bird houses filled with straw , hot chocolate mix and marshmellos

blue and brown birds nest shower

2010-03-21T14:16:00.004-04:00

This is the table scape and decor for my birds nest baby shower

Bridial Shower

2010-02-23T17:42:00.003-05:00

Baby Shower

2010-02-18T10:58:00.005-05:00

Kids Birthday Parties

2010-02-18T10:51:00.010-05:00

Dr Seuss theme shower

2010-02-18T10:43:00.008-05:00

Gifts & Favors

2010-02-12T13:38:00.003-05:00

Cup Cake Couture: is a my new crafting project where i create all sorts of gift basket and favors for wedding, baby shower and special occasions