Tami Winn Events

Contemporary Wedding Ceremonies

2012-01-27T08:52:00.000-06:00

Non-traditional ceremonies are trendy alternatives for the soon-to-wed and Fort Worth has an abundance of options from museums to art galleries, historical buildings to luxury hotels, botanical gardens to local parks, and winery boutiques to country clubs to choose from. These are just a few of what Fort Worth has to offer...

YWCA

The YWCA in downtown Fort Worth is a historic landmark circa 1920. The Great Room is typically secured as a ceremony space while the Grand Ballroom is perfect for the following celebration; both rooms seat up to 175 guests. An endearing non-profit, all rental proceeds benefits needy women and children of greater Tarrant County. http://www.ywcafortworth.com/web/facility-rental/

Botanic Garden

The botanic garden offers a zen-like atmosphere for nature-loving couples in nine outdoor sites. The Fuller Garden, noted to be a secluded area featuring a stone gazebo and a waterfall, is rivalled by the Lower Rose Garden, with a sparkling fountain and reflecting pool, as our top pic. http://fwbg.org/weddings/

Water Gardens

Water, one of the four essential elements of life, has been captured and displayed in an urban oasis known as the Fort Worth Water Gardens. A fitting venue for everlasting I do's, powerfull waterfalls and a tranquil pool present water's ability to adapt and transform in a variety of circumstances, just as a marriage must do.

809 at Vickery

The whimsical outdoor courtyard at 809 at Vickery is over 3,800 square feet and can accommodate wedding ceremonies for up to 250 guests. A restored warehouse and main house offer indoor alternatives that are equally unique. http://atvickery.com/

Ashton Depot

While the Grand Ballroom at the Ashton Depot is truly ogle-worthy, with barrel-vaulted ceilings, original marble flooring, and stained glass windows, the patio oozes ambiance thanks to railway awnings, landscaping, and a multi-tiered fountain. http://www.theashtondepot.com/wedding-venues.html

Worthington Hotel

The Worthington Hotel terrace is a fresh alternative to indoor ceremonies boasting a matchless view of the city below. This is the stuff dreams are made of, including a Marriot wedding planner, a helpful staff, and spectacular overnight accommodations... we are envious just thnking about it.
http://www.marriott.com/hotels/event-planning/wedding-planning/dfwdt-the-worthington-renaissance-fort-worth-hotel/

Bass Hall

Bass Hall, an apex of Fort Worth culture and an architectural icon, offers two lobbies, a recital hall, a studio, and exclusive rooms for ceremonies and receptions. Couples can also take center stage at the Founders Concert Theater which is also available to reserve.http://www.basshall.com/rentals.jsp

Traditional Fort Worth Ceremonies

2012-01-12T11:50:00.000-06:00

Choosing a ceremony site that both you and your mate absolutely adore is vital. Considering cost, approximate guest count, and proximity to a dreamy reception hall are secondary, but also important. Prior to investing your time in appointments and walk-throughs, identify your style as a couple and research accordingly. This week's post is dedicated to traditional couples looking to tie the knot in a local chapel. We found these historical beauties within Fort Worth's city limits and hope to save our discerning readers some time and emotional energy.

Marty Leonard Chapel

Designed by world-renowned architect, E. Fay Jones, the Marty Leonard Chapel was opened in 1990 and is located on the campus of the Lena Pope Home, a non-profit organization just west of downtown Fort Worth. Complete with a choir loft, sanctuary and base-level conference room, dressing room, kitchen, and office, the facility exceeds both practical and aesthetic standards. Stunning architecture, surrounding foliage, and reasonable rental rates makes the chapel a must-see sanctuary.

Tip: In a modern venue, anything goes. We love this bouquet of orange which adds a pop of color to this geometric gem.

University Christian Church

An appendage of the University Christian Church, the petite chapel seats approximately 100 guests and is a rare gem reminiscent of missions from another era. Constructed in 1929, the chapel reflects classic romantic features and old-world decorum. An outdoor courtyard is also available for al fresco I do's and can hold up to 75 while larger groups may consider the sanctuary which holds 1200.

Fun yet formal, this cheerful bouquet is suitable for indoors or out.

Robert Carr Chapel

Elegant and refined, the Robert Carr chapel located on TCU's well-groomed campus is available for weddings year-round. A 137-foot spire regally welcomes attendants while providential architecture begs to be explored. The interior shot is from a fabulous ceremony that we were honored to design. Keep in mind that a 12 to 24 month wait-list is in place for certain dates.

Tip: These flowers complement the red carpet inside the Carr.

Broadway Baptist Church

Featuring a breathtaking Rose Window made of intricate stained glass, and the largest pipe-organ in the state of Texas, the Broadway Baptist Church hosts non-denominational ceremonies, offering a cathedral-style setting to a multitude of faiths.

Tip: These beautiful blooms play off of the jewel-hued Rose Window

St. Patrick's Cathedral

St. Patricks Cathedral

Fort Worth's oldest sanctuary (still in use), St. Patrick's Catholic Church is a gothic revival structure which broke ground in 1888. A part of the Diocese of Fort Worth, the limestone gem was designed by local architect James J. Kane, and is complete with twin towers, interior arches, and original stained glass. This facility is religion-specific and has special requirements in preparation for marriage.

Tip: Grand with ornate accets, this bouquet is opulent, just like the cathedral.

St Andrew's Episcipal Church

Housing a gallery of stained-glass windows, this gothic revival beauty--St. Anderw's Episcopal Church--was designed by Sanguinet & Staats and constructed by William Miller Sons and Co. in 1912. The facility is religion-specific and has special requirements for marriage preparation.

Tip: Priamarily off-white with pops of purple and pink, this bouquet is a perfect balance for traditional decorum.

First United Methodist Church

Mirroring a medeival castle, the First United Methodist Church is majestically situated off of Fifth and Henderson and was designed by architect Wiley G. Clarkson. Its staggering towers and arch-encompassed coutyard are stunning at the very least. This facility is religion-specific and has special requirements for the preparation of marriage.

Tip: Classic and simple, a white bouquet is just lovely, without competing with the overwhelming architecture.

Check back with us next week for more brilliant ideas, as we explore non-traditional ceremony sites in Fort Worth; from modern and chic, to rustic and refined, to outdoor fantasies!

Parental Gratitude

2011-12-29T09:41:00.000-06:00

Gifting. It is hard to think of much else during this jovial time of year. In continuance with last week's topic, this week we explore expressions of gratitude for mom, dad, step-mom, step-dad or whoever your beloved guardian may be. Whether your family is traditional, transitional, or modern, these bestowals transcend family culture and target the heart.

Offering an experience such as a weekend retreat to Texas getaways like Escondida Resort at www.escondidaresort.com, Rough Creek Lodge at www.roughcreek.com, Elm Creek Manor www.elmcreekmanor.com, W. B. Ranch www.wbranch.com, Selah Ranch www.selahranch.com, or Dos Brisas Ranch www.dosbrisas.com, offer luxurious accommodations including day-spa services for a fraction of out-of-state destination prices. A grand gesture close to home, these mini-vacations say thanks in a big way.

For a scaled back version of local opulence, a night out at three to five star dining establishments offer blissful gratitude at minimal cost. Fort Worth eateries such as Grace www.gracefortworth.com, Buttons www.buttonsrestaurant.com, The Reata www.reata.net, Eddie V's www.eddiev.com, and Del Friscos www.delfriscos.com are highly acclaimed for cuisine and ambiance.

Sentimental keepsakes convey gratitude in timeless fashion.

This hand-made wood plaque made by Sugar Plum reads All that I am, and all that I hope to be, I owe to my loving parents.

www.etsy.com

Branded in wood by Prince Whitaker, these personalized frames come in a set of two for both bride and groom parents.

www.etsy.com

This print honors parents for their role in raising the family. The text is also appropriate for parents of all faiths.

You have created a home filled with love and laughter, integrity and learning, compassion and generosity. We will strive to follow your example and create a loving environment rich in traditions and dedicated to peace, hope, and respect for all people. Your blessings allow us to enter our marriage with hearts full of confidence, trust and joy. You have bestowed upon us a great treasure - the ability to share our love.

Song of Songs Wedding Gift by Caspi

Available in a 10" plate and a 12" platter this family tree design by Jessica Rust is a fabulous gift for devoted parents. The first generation will be placed at the foot of the tree, with the subsequent generations on the branches.

www.jessicarustdesign.com

Also bearing the family tree, this richly colored tapestry and throw can be appreciated from the sofa or the wall.

www.thingsremembered.com

An engraved time-piece presented to a step-father or male role-model says thanks for the time invested in a symbolic manner.

Common novelty tokens such as 'father of the bride/groom' golfballs, cuff links, and ball-caps are fun momentos for light-hearted fathers.

www.thingsremembered.com

A keepsake box for him...

www.beautyandthegroom.com

A poem for mothers, step-mothers, or female role-models are tophies of the heart; beautiful objects that stand in honor of the love, care, and committment that she represents.

Engraved poems for fathers are also available.

www.personalizationmall.com

Gift baskets bundle assorted comforts and confections that deliver simple pleasure. Find one full of goodies your parents will enjoy or a combination of all.

www.harryanddavid.com

www.winecountrygiftbaskets.com

Make your own gift basket for a personal touch. Include items that they relish along with a framed photo of your choice and hand-written note.

Other gift basket ideas include spa products from her favorite skin care line or assorted cigars and scotch for him.

Wishing you the happiest new year!

-all of us here at Tami Winn Events

Wedding Party Offerings

2011-12-15T10:41:00.000-06:00

The wedding party, a thoughtfully plucked group of dear family and friends that your life would be lacking without. As the cadre of your celebration, this group sets the tone of your reception with energetic and lighthearted appeal. In order to say thanks, not just for the many years of loyalty, but also for late night invitation stuffing and hours upon hours of gown-hunting, a gift is traditionally presented prior to the ceremony; at the bachelor/bachelorette party, the rehearsal dinner, or the morning of.

Common tokens of appreciation include personalized flasks, zippos, and mugs for the boys, while girls go home with embroidered totes and bags. While these popular pics are hard to top, we searched the net for fresh ideas that are both easy on the newly-wed wallet and rare finds.

Brandy and cigars anyone?

A square decanter and accompanying monogrammed ice bucket will have your groomsmen channeling Madmen.

www.potterybarn.com

Silver-plated and monogrammed, this cigar-cutter and flask combo can elevate an average joe to gentleman status.

www.potterybarn.com

Rustic yet refined

Made from saddle-grade leather, these whiskey-colored-coasters are masculine and versatile; casual enough for coffee-table soirees, yet polished for personal bar appearances.

www.potterybarn.com

Tell your groomsman that he his king of the grill with a monogrammed branding iron. In addition to being a back-yard hit at barbecues, the iron is sure to conjure up wedding day recollections over beers and burgers for summers to come.

http://www.williams-sonoma.com/

Hammered steel spikes make matchless bottle-openers that are practical, purposeful, and just plain cool.

http://www.hammeronsteel.etsy.com/

Carrie Bradshaw was right

A monogrammed necklace or bracelet is chic, thoughtful, and always in style.

http://www.personalcreations.com/

www.redenvelope.com

Taking it one step further, a locket offers space to store meaningful photos of candid moments. Slip a pic of the two of you in there for extra credit.

http://www.personalcreations.com/

Sophisticated storage

A keepsake box bearing a personal message from bride to maid is a heartfelt reminder of how sacred your relationship is. And bonus, it moonlights as a jewelry box.

http://www.personalcreations.com/

www.potterybarn.com

For less conventional ideas try the offbeat bride's 2011 gift picks http://offbeatbride.com/2011/11/even-more-unexpected-groomsman-gifts

Clever Guestbook Alternatives

2011-11-27T22:13:00.000-06:00

A timeless tradition, the guestbook is a memorable reference filled with congratulations, blessings, and well-wishes to the bride and groom. For modern brides, the look of the book has been revamped offering original options while preserving it's sentimental purpose. What would normally be read over once or twice in a lifetime, then replaced in storage, is now a clever presentation that guests help create.

http://www.weddingbee.com/

Surrounded by signatures of loved-ones, wedding day portraits framed by an engraveable photo mat are sleek, sentimental, and durable over the years.

http://www.insteadofyou.com/

The Wishing Tree is a Dutch wedding custom that includes hanging card stock full of best-wishes for the happy couple from the tree's bare branches. Often placed at the entrance of the reception, the tree is captivating and interactive for guests who assist in it's decoration.

http://www.colormeminetampa.com/

Practical and beautiful, personalized platters are perfect for entertaining or displaying and come in many forms. Above, a ceramic platter has been inscribed in permanent fine-tip ink, while below a silver platter has been engraved.

http://www.idoengraveables.com/

http://www.etsy.com/shop/CottageCreekArts

A two-dimensional take on the wishing tree, this original work of art requires guests to paint tree leaves and then sign their mark. The end result can be hung in the couple's home and fondly admired each day.

http://www.lucydylanweddings.com/

Like serving platters, signed bottles of wine have multiple purposes. Prior to an anniversary, the full bottles can be displayed on a shelf or in a china cabinet as anticipated years to come. When an anniversary does approach, one bottle should be uncorked and enjoyed, with its messages read, and then replaced with the rest of the collection as one year accomplished.

http://www.lovelyandgracious.com/

Light-hearted and fun, a blown up engagement photo makes a personalized puzzle that attendants will enjoy putting together. After being cut into several pieces, guests take one slip, write a message, and then find it's corresponding peg on the board.

Hope these ideas inspire your own desires when planning a one-of-a-kind wedding!

A Winter Wonderland

2011-11-10T08:51:00.000-06:00

www.weddingbycolor.com

Whether you are a trendy bride searching for the latest couture or a traditional bride with vintage flair, choosing the perfect color palette to compliment your personal style is essential for your special day and a fun factor when selecting wedding day decorum.

"What are your colors?" This seems to be the first thing that friends and vendors inquire about after "how did he propose?" and "when is the big day?" Don't feel pressured. Take your time when choosing your palette; look through magazines like Modern Bride, Brides of North Texas,The Knot, Brides, Real Simple Weddings, D Weddings, and Martha Stewart Weddings for fabulous ideas.

www.theknot.com

bridalbuzz.dmagazine.com

www.brides.com

http://browse.realsimple.com/holidays-entertaining/weddings/index.html

www.modernbride.com

www.offbeatbride.com

www.bridesofnorthtexas.com

www.marthastewartweddings.com

Check out these winter-wonderland-weddings that we love...

www.weddingbee.com

Real Simple Weddings

www.uywedding.com

www.zoelingard.co.uk

http://www.1weddingsource.com/

http://www.bridesofnorthtexas.com/

Direct from the Runway

2011-10-25T11:43:00.000-05:00

The long awaited Fall 2012 fashion week in New York is finally upon us and many designers are revealing their best work thus far. Monique Lhuillier, Marchesa, Amsale, Carolina Herrera, Vera Wang, Jenny Packham, and Oscar de la Renta are just a few of the big names that appeared this past week. Available to fall 2012 brides, these are just a few of the gorgeous gowns that we love.

Marchesa

Monique Lhuillier

Amsale

Vera Wang

Oscar de la Renta

Jenny Packham

Carolina Herrera

It is supremely important for brides to secure a gown at least six months prior to the wedding day--at the very latest, four months. If you have a particular designer in mind, make sure to scout out boutiques in your area that carry the collection. When you call ahead to make an appointment, mention the designer and style that you are interested in to verify that they have the sample on the floor.We recommend printing photos of the gowns that you are attracted to, as well as establishing a price point, prior to your first appointment. Additional gown costs that are often overlooked include accessories such as a sash, a veil, undergarments, and alterations. All of these elements should be carfully considered when making a final selection.

An Unusual Ring-Bearer

2011-10-11T09:00:00.000-05:00

They are there for us in sickness and in health, in good times and in bad, until death parts us. A beloved member of the family and source of comfort, dogs have become popular ring bearers among animal-loving couples as an alternative to the common pillow-toting toddler bouncing down the isle. Loyal and true, a trained dog can further the "aaah" factor of a ceremony and also prove to be a welcomed diversion for anxiety-prone brides.

When choosing the perfect floral decor for your dog, be conscious of comfort, color, and toxins. A number of lilies and other beautiful flowers are dangerous to dogs and can be potentially fatal.
http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/plants/

Once a ceremony site has approved Fido's presence on the big day, make a copy of updated vaccine records in case they are required. Also, locate an area on the grounds where a crate can be set up with food and water. If running water is not available at the site, be sure to freeze a bowl of water the night before and pack it inside of the crate for wedding day drinking. Assign a close friend or family member to be in charge of dog and crate transportation to and from the ceremony in order to ensure stress-free puppy participation.

Fabulous Blue Flats

2011-09-29T16:42:00.069-05:00

As September begins to dwindle, along with its sweltering temperatures, October's promise of cool breezes and color palletes moves in, announcing subtle yet second-look-worthy styles, including jewel toned blue shoes.

Aqua, Topaz, and Sapphire blue ballerina flats are a popular choice among young brides this fall. The 'something blue' inspired trend was quick to catch on in the south last season and has been re-invented to fit within fall's earth-toned parameters.

We love these ballerina flats and here's why. Standing on the balls of your feet for five hours does not a happy bride make. Women who want to add a punch of color to the usual wedding day white can do so without sacrificing comfort.

Add a pop of color to your hair or bouquet as a nod to these fabulous flats. Simple and understated, the right feather or flower pulls almost any fall palette together elegantly.

Lighting = Dramatic, Romantic, Etc!

2011-05-24T12:26:00.000-05:00

Our friends at Beyond always create the most amazing lighting elements for our events. This wedding reception really impressed me. Look how the lighting creates a fabulous effect and imagine how your guests are wow'd as they enter your reception!
Photography by Andrea Polito.

The Second Most Important Question

2011-04-03T22:10:00.000-05:00

You’ve talked about this with your girlfriends from the moment you knew he was "The One". Where your wedding would be, what your dress would look like, and who would stand up with you on this momentous occasion. So when the time finally arrives for you to make those decisions, choosing your bridesmaids can be just as special as planning any other detail of your wedding. You can ask them straight-forward or find more creative ways to ask them to be a part of this special day. However, it’s important that some of them may not be able to accept the honor. Prior commitments, financial difficulties or myriad of other reasons may keep them from committing. Be prepared and understanding in that situation.

Be sure you have thought out exactly what you are going to say. Don’t pressure them into a decision at that very moment. Being in a wedding is a huge financial and time commitment, and don’t be offended if someone has to actually take a moment to think things through. That doesn’t mean that they aren’t honored to be asked.

If all your bridesmaids live in the same town as you, invite them to a brunch or girls night out where you can ask them all at one time. This will be cause for excitement and celebration. You may want to personalize all or a select few of your invitations, so this may not work for every bride.

You can ask your ladies by sending flowers or a sentimental gift such as a picture album or something that is special between the two of you.

Brides with a sense of humor can ask friends to be a bridesmaid by using the stereotype of an ugly bridesmaid dress and show them something hideous when you ask them. Don’t let the joke play out for too long though, or it may get scary!

Super creative brides can create a video, music video or song to ask people to be in their wedding party. The key is to make sure that you make it about them, because so much of the time spent in the coming months is going to be focused on you. Making your bridesmaids feel special is a great way to start off this process.

Yes, some girls may have ‘always a bridesmaid, never a bride’ envy, but at the end of the day, make sure you have people standing beside you that truly love and support you and your groom, and your future. Having a strong support system to back you up will make you feel more comfortable as you stand at the altar, and will help support you through any difficulties that life may throw at you.

Lawfully Wedded

2011-04-03T11:55:00.000-05:00

The flowers, the music, the food, the dress. Yes, those are important elements to your wedding, but at the end of the day, there is only one element that matters: the marriage license. Without this little document, all of your preparations and planning is just for a big party, not a wedding. Yet this piece of paper is often forgotten about or left until the last minute.

Marriage license laws and requirements vary state to state and sometimes even county by county. The best way to find out what you need to do is call the Marriage License Bureau in the county that the wedding will take place in. It’s essential to plan ahead because there may be a waiting period for a license or an expiration date associated with this document.

Common requirements are :
•Paying in cash
•Applying in person, together with your fiancé
•Picture form of identification (sometimes a birth certificate is also required)
•Decree of Divorce or Certificate of Death if you are either divorced or widowed.

Don’t lose this document! You’ll give it to your officiant before the ceremony after it’s been signed by both the bride and groom. Some states require witnesses to sign it. After the ceremony, the officiant will mail it to the marriage bureau and after it’s been filed, you’ll receive a certified copy in the mail. Make sure you keep this in a safe place.

One helpful hint is to ask for a copy of the certificate before it’s mailed in. This is especially a smart idea if you’ve booked any of your honey moon travel in your married name. The copy will be able to show that although your picture id doesn’t have your new last name, your marriage certificate shows that it’s true.

Before you go to the marriage bureau, call ahead to see if an appointment is necessary. That may depend on the season, so be prepared either way.

Even though this is one of the most important elements to your wedding, it’s a simple process. Just make sure that you put in the proper research and that you have everything required before you go down to apply.

If you have a wedding planner, give the marriage license to them to make sure it gets signed by all necessary parties. If you do not have a planner, then a parent is usually a reliable source to be in charge of this task.

Although this is the least romantic element, it is the only one that will officially say that you are married. And at the end of the day, that’s all that matters!

Season's Stylings

2011-04-02T23:17:00.000-05:00

‘Tis the season! If you haven’t already been swarmed by save the dates and invitations- prepare yourself for the onslaught. As the first day of spring passed us several weeks ago, weddings are blooming right and left. And whether you are a guest at one, or the star attraction, this season’s trends are sure to stop you in your tracks. Vintage-style weddings are still the rage, but the key is to be more subtle in the details- and mix modern elements with new. Popular wedding dresses continue to be of the romantic era. Look for soft fabric with vintage designed lace, ruffles and unique necklines like off the shoulder and one-shoulder. Also consider dresses with shorter trains. To finish off your look- pair your vintage dress with a modern statement piece necklace- and don’t be afraid to use a pop of color. For your hair- keep it simple. Loose, wavy hair is a classic counterpart to this style.

katyelliot.com

weddinginspirasi.com shibawi.com faveprettythings.blogspot.com ohdarlingblogspot.com

thelilbee.com

Want to awe your guests and ensure that your bridesmaids don’t have the classic “I hate my dress” syndrome? Instead of going for the matching dresses of every other wedding, stand out and find vintage dresses for your bridesmaids. You can stick to a color theme or just let them choose something classy and elegant. Think Carey Mulligan in An Education. A special, vintage dress, is definitely something that your maids would wear again- and your pictures would be one of a kind. vintagepromdress.net ruffledblog.com

Hot colors this year are peach and fuchsia- ultra girly and feminine but not garish. These are flattering colors on almost anybody, and flowers in these colors are in abundance. Keep the rest of your wedding neutral with blacks, greys and beiges.

Seating your guests at your reception is one of the most stressful and time consuming tasks throughout the whole planning process. Is it open seating? Reserved tables? Reserved seats? It all depends on what you and your groom are comfortable with, the theme and style of your wedding, and what you think your families would be most comfortable with. A modern twist to tables at a reception is mixing square and round tables. The flow of conversation is uninterrupted and guests can enjoy a totally different feel than any other wedding they’ve experienced. And isn’t the whole point to give your guests an experience?

myweddingnigeria.com

Lynn Michelle Photography

One of the biggest trends that’s happening currently is ‘green’ weddings. Earth conscience couples are incorporating their beliefs into their special day, inspiring their guests in the process. Going green is easy: look for local, organic foods and flowers. There are catering and floral companies in all major cities specializing in this- not only because it’s popular, but also because it’s better for the environment. Another way to be earth friendly is to use recycled paper for your invitations, programs, menu cards and thank you cards. Even put a little note in your program highlighting the fact that you’re using recycling paper, and if the guest does not want to keep their program, to return it to the front so that you can recycle it on your own.

One wedding style that is still in fashion is having an outdoor wedding. This theme is also great to incorporate the ‘going green’ element. Beautiful gardens, rustic ranches and unique locations like a zoo are all fabulous venues to have your special day. One thing to consider is how hot it’s going to be at the time of your wedding- you do not want your guest to be baking. So consider the time of day, heat, and shade issues. And if your day turns out to be unseasonably warm- plan on some refreshing beverages to cool you down!

elizabethannedesigns.com weddingreceptioncenterpieces.net

Jeremy Gilliam Photography

One hot ticket trend for today’s weddings are after parties. Make your day last as long as possible by offering close family and friends a private after party, after you say goodbye to your guests at your reception. While it can be as simple as all of you going to a separate location, brides are now having a secret section of their reception transformed into a ‘lounge’ feel with late night snacks, specialty drinks, and even continuous music. You can create whatever vibe you want: swanky with a Rat Pack feel, or posh and club-like. Or transform the space into a western dance hall! Make it special and make it fun! This allows you to wind down and spend a bit more time relaxing to those closest to you- away from the pressure of being a host.

weddingbee.com

No matter your culture or religion, ethnic themed weddings are becoming more and more in fashion. But keep it personal: if you were proposed to in China, do an Asian themed reception. If you’re going on Safari for your honeymoon, bring in some African influences. Food is an obvious way to incorporate a theme. But go beyond that. There are always ways to incorporate ethnic inspired décor without being cheesy. Choose items with a critical eye, and don’t be afraid to edit if it doesn’t feel right.

attention2detail.blogspot

Weddings today are all about being unique. But one way to start ahead of the class is to have an alternate gem stone for your wedding ring. And it doesn’t have to be your birthstone. Bride’s today wear Aquamarines, Citrine, White Topaz and Sapphires.

groomsadvice.com

zimbio.com

A cute personal touch for your wedding is to create personal notes on chalkboard- it creates a homey, intimate feel. From directions to your ceremony site to your menu- this trend is unique and simple to do. If you don’t like your own handwriting, have a creative friend help out!

ayleebits.com

elegala.com

Trends come and go. Remember to select things that excite you, not the masses. If you’re happy and love it, so will your guests. And a glowing bride is always in style. Sources: http://www.yourweddingcompany.com/ http://www.onewed.com/ http://www.manolobrides.com/

LOVE!

2011-03-24T12:30:00.000-05:00

I absolutely love receiving notes in the mail or by email from clients. Especially ones as sweet as this after the wedding. This always seems to put a smile on my face and usually a couple of tears. It definitely makes all of the hard work and hours invested worth while!

Hope you enjoy!
XOXO
Tami

Dear Tami,

As the mother of the bride, I want to thank you for everything! All the flowers were absolutely beautiful! The table arrangements in the tin pails and the flowers, moss, and raffia tied around the candles was the perfect look of "country chic" at The Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame! Jennifer's bridal bouquet was stunning and the bridesmaids bouquets were perfect! You definitely have an amazing ability to bring a bride's dream to life and stay within a budget.

Thanks for also helping us out with the time crunch between the wedding ceremonies. When I found out you were also the florist of the earlier wedding, I knew everything would be fine. You have a wonderful bubbly personality, but are also calming and re-assuring at the same time!

Thanks again, you are awesome and the flowers were "nothing short of fabulous"!

What I Wish I Would Have Known....

2011-03-14T12:44:00.000-05:00

Everyone has an opinion about your wedding. Your friends, your relatives, even your co-workers. So whose advice do you take? How about brides that have walked down the aisle recently, and know firsthand what you should or shouldn’t do? Tried and true, these brides are battle-worn when it comes to wedding planning. And no matter how much or how little you worry about the small stuff, there are always lessons to be learned.

Surprisingly, one of the most often ‘forgotten’ items in a wedding is the one document that makes it legal: your wedding license. Belle Karr, former bride of Tami Winn Events remembers that little detail getting lost in the hustle and bustle of other planning. She reminds future brides to make sure both you and your fiancé sign the document and then have your Officiant sign it after the ceremony.

Photo by Jenny Martell

Married in December and also a former bride of TWE, Nicole Clark feels very strongly about the importance of the professionalism of your vendors. Her biggest lesson came while hiring her photographer, who was pretty new to the business. “I should have given her a list of specific pictures I wanted, but I didn’t. Because of that, I have one photo of me walking down the aisle with my husband. I wish I would have told her exactly what I wanted and what were the most important moments to me," says Nicole. Her advice can be applied to every vendor that you hire. Ask for references, go over the contract very carefully, and ask for referrals from other vendors.

Mother of the Bride, Julie Rosener, has the same piece of advice for brides and mothers. “I met with one vendor and they recommended Tami Winn. I met with another vendor, and they, too, referred Tami. These people are in the business, and know who is the best.”

Communicate clearly what your vision is. And don’t be afraid to check in with the vendor to make sure they understand exactly what you are expecting.

Photo by VIM Studios

One of the most important things most brides decide on for their wedding is their dress. And although it’s important to share that moment with loved ones, it’s also important to make sure you are being true to yourself. Nicole admits to letting herself get caught up in the moment, which left her with 2 dresses, neither one her dream dress. “I listened to those around me instead of listening to myself,” she says.

Personal Photo from Nicole Clark

With so much pressure on being in front of a crowd and cameras, Belle adopted a great mantra for the day: “Fake it ‘til you make it!” She and her husband had to use that to get them through the moment of cutting into their cake and realizing it wasn’t the flavor they ordered. “Knowing that everyone was watching and pictures were being taken was a lot of pressure. Luckily, not many know the cake was the wrong flavor!”

Photo by Jenny Martell

Whether you are the bride or the mother of the bride, the budget can be one of the most stressful factors of your big day. One thing Julie and Nicole agree on is the difficulty of maintaining a budget.

As the mother of the bride, Julie said that it was definitely the most stressful thing during the planning process. “I thought I could wing it and piece it all together, but I should have put it all down on paper. At the end of everything, I had no idea how much I spent,” agrees Nicole.

Photo by VIM Studios

The one thing that every former client of TWE advised, was to ENJOY YOUR DAY! Belle says to let go of the planning and enjoy the moment. “Do your best to take it all in. And before walking down the aisle, take a few deep breaths!”

Nicole says that the key to enjoying your big day is to remember to not sweat the small stuff. “Don’t let the planning ruin your day. Your husband, friends and family are the most important things. Focus on that and you’ll have a great time.”

For mother of the bride Julie, the most important thing was making sure her daughter was happy. “You can either let things upset you and ruin your day, or get over and soak up every moment. At the end of the night, my daughter said it was the best day of her life. And to me, that’s worth every penny.”

Photo by Jenny Martell

Personal photo from Nicole Clark

Photo by VIM Studios

Here’s a Little Tip for Your Big Day….

2011-03-02T09:35:00.000-06:00

Weddings can be an expensive affair. And when you pay that much for your vendors, it’s easy to think you are finished once the final invoice is paid. But what about tips? Most people don’t even think about giving tips to those that help make their special day possible. Although tips are traditionally expected, many couples have fell out of touch with what is proper when considering the tip to deliver. The major questions stick out to be answered while you are planning your budget for tips:

Who to tip?

• Transportation Drivers
• Hair/Make-up artists
• Wait staff and bartenders
• DJ or Band(It’s nice to tip every individual member equally)
(optional)
• Ceremony or reception musicians
• Banquet captains
• Photographer/videographer
• Officiant
• Florist
• Baker
• Wedding Coordinator

What to tip?

Tips should all be in cash- in separate envelopes with the vendor’s name on the outside of the envelope. While it’s customary to tip 15-20%, you also have to take into account what the over-all total was. To make things easier, you can also tip a flat rate to each individual vendor, depending on their level of service.

Hair and Make-up Stylists should be tipped about 20% of their charge. Each musician should get about $25 each- and a DJ should be tipped no less than $25. Your catering staff should get about $20 per server and the banquet manager can appropriately be tipped up to $200, depending on the level of service and cost of your food and beverage. Florist, photographers and videographers should get between $30 and $50. Wedding Coordinators should get about $50-100. If any of these have assistants, it’s nice to tip them as well. (You can always call ahead of your wedding and ask your vendors if they will be bringing any assistants and how many, so you can be prepared that day).

When to tip?

Tips should be handed out on your wedding day- and if you do not have a wedding planner, assign a family member or close friend to pass these out to the correct vendors. It’s always easier to tip directly before a vendor leaves. If you miss them- you can always mail the tip after the wedding. A check is much safer to mail than cash.

The ‘tip’ to tipping is to do so gratefully and with humility. Don’t make a big deal out of the situation and neither will your vendors. In fact, you will only strengthen your relationship with them. They are forever a part of your life, as they spent the best night of your life with you, and helped to make it a dream come true!

A Modern Event

2011-02-07T11:23:00.000-06:00

For everyone looking for a fabulous Fort Worth venue or a great place for a rehearsal dinner, check out The Modern Art Museum. They are hosting an open house on February 24th from 6:30-9:00pm. Be sure to rsvp by February 18th!

The Peters' Daughters Get Married!

2011-01-14T10:52:00.000-06:00

2010 was a year of amazing weddings! Not just because of the flowers and decor, but also the wonderful, caring families we got know and become a part of. The Peters are one of those families and we were blessed to be a part of both of their daughters weddings last year.

Tina was married to George on Saturday, May 1st at St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church in Fort Worth. They had a beautiful reception at the Omni Fort Worth Hotel where we got to work with one of our favorites, Deana Ogg. The colors were just amazing with a mix of teal, apple, magenta, and persimmon and we accented with peacock feathers for a fun touch. Here are some photos of their wedding provided by Knight Photography.

Elise was married to Daniel on Saturday, June 27th at St. John the Baptist Greek Orthodox Church in California. They had a small reception that followed at The Ritz Carlton overlooking the ocean.

We worked with the family to plan a fabulous reception here in Texas which was held on Saturday, October 30th. The Peter's live in a truly amazing home in Fort Worth which was the perfect backdrop to host their 250 guests. We worked with Celebration Event Rentals to bring in a stunning clear top tent adorned with chandeliers and rich red fabric for pops of color. City Club Fort Worth provided their guests with tasty bites all evening including custom baked pizzas which the chef prepared in the Peter's outdoor brick oven. Beyond provided lighting that accented all areas of their resort style backyard as well as a custom gobo projected on the front of the home as the guests arrived and color changing effects inside the tent to add to the party. The Bullet Proof Brass Band kept their guests rocking all night and they had a blast! Below are some photos provided by Jeremy Gilliam Photography. He did such a great job capturing the beauty of the night. I can't wait to see the video done by Steve Allen with Sonrise Video Productions! I'll post some photos below as well as the other great vendors that made this day possible.

Bakery - Creme de la Creme

Valet - Rent a Frog

Alcohol - Two Bucks Beverage

Haute Pink Wedding

2010-12-10T13:21:00.000-06:00

The elements of a perfect marriage are pretty simple. Love, honesty, laughter. And the elements of a perfect wedding are just as simple. Pair a great wedding venue with a creative event design team, and the results are often magical. That’s how we feel whenever we work with the team at City Club Fort Worth.

For the July 24, 2010 wedding of Cole and Brooke Ortowski, City Club FW offered the perfect space and atmosphere for a Haute Pink wedding. While Cole and Brooke were the most beautiful couple, we worked exclusively with the Mother of the Groom, Dorian. Her dedication and attention to detail was unparalled. Dorian was involved in every single detail of this reception from the custom chargers, candle holders and candles to the hand beaded linens at the sign in, cake and head tables. She had every surface brought in re-finished to be the perfect shade of antique gold to compliment the varying shades of pink throughout City Club FW’s ballroom.

Dorian’s vision could not have come true at a more perfect location. Every time we work at City Club, the event comes together flawlessly from the food to the friendly staff. It is truly a pleasure to work with Amy, Sarah and the City Club crew. The food is delicious and the service that you receive will let you relax and just enjoy your evening.

Everything we have ever eaten from City Club’s kitchen has been a symphony to our taste buds. Cole and Brooke wanted to appease their Southern guests’ appetites by providing an array of delectable cuisine. The guests were greeted with chilled seafood, chicken, beef carvings, salmon, antipasti stations, fresh fruits and cheeses and every side you could possibly think of.

The Emerald City Band’s thirteen piece ensemble was enlisted to get everyone on the dance floor. As the evening progressed, City Club hand-passed late night snacks including sweet potato fries, mini corn dogs and sliders along with strawberry milkshakes and Brandy Alexanders with chocolate straws.

To keep their guests hydrated, the Ortowskis served Pink champagne, and a specialty cocktail, created just for their wedding: The Ortowski-tini, a blood orange martini.

With the room washed in hot pink lighting, our floral pieces were showcased beyond measure. Most of the centerpieces were very structured, but some of them had a few whimsical elements to give the pieces a more feminine feel. The Ortowskis wanted drama, and we accomplished this by setting each of the 19 tables with a tall antique gold stand and a large pave of roses, hydrangea and carnations, all in varying shades of pink. The tallest centerpiece topped over five feet tall.

Other vendors that made the day possible were:

Rentals- Posh Couture (china, flatware, stemware)
Lighting- Beyond
Band- Emerald City
Bakery- Sublime
Photobooth- Randal Stout
Stationary- Simply Personal
Photography- Your Candid Memories
Ice Carving- James Pappas/Dallas Ice
Chaircovers- Wild Flower Linens
Rentals- Celebration Rentals (linens, chair pads and white dance floor)
Ceremony Venue- Marty Leonard Chapel

One last big thank you to City Club and their amazing staff for playing such an integral role in this Haute Pink wedding! And congratulations to Cole and Brooke!

**All photos taken by Tracy Autem photography

Dressing the Groom

2010-11-30T19:27:00.000-06:00

When you think of a tux, you think of dashing, debonair and dangerous. But when a groom thinks of a tux, he thinks of stiff, stuffy and stupid. And after he’s made the you the happiest women in the world, don’t you think you could make him a little happy and not force him into some traditional penguin suit? Nowadays, there are so many different versions and alternatives to a tuxedo, you’re bound to find something that will please your fiancé.

The first thing to consider when selecting gentlemen’s attire is what type of affair you are having. Anything during the day or outside, or in the summer is a less formal affair, and therefore, dictates more casual attire. But anything inside, or in the winter or specially noted more formal, requires a bit more traditional dress for the wedding party. Keep in mind the feel you are going for with your wedding, because the wedding party’s dress sets the tone for the rest of the affairs.

The most versatile, yet classic look for the groom is a tailored black suit. This differs from the traditional tuxedo because paired with different ‘accessories’, this look can be either informal or formal. In order to get the optimal effect of sleekness, it’s important to have these suits extremely tailored. One way to accomplish this is to have the suits purchased by the groom and groomsmen. Classic black suits can be timeless and can be worn for years to come.

www.tuxedowearhouse.com

For the different accessories you can use to make this suit different, start with the tie. Sleek silver or classic black can keep this looking formal while a bright color or interesting pattern can make this unique. Adding an interesting pocket square can also add some personality to this look. Just remember, the simpler this look, the more fun you can have with a boutonniere.

www.ashleysbrideguide.com

Another timeless look that is coming back with a modern twist is a grey suit. Paired with the right shirt and tie, this shell can be deemed either formal or informal. And because it’s not black, you’ll be set apart from every other wedding.

www.styleforum.com

If you want something unique for a formal affair, consider a white tuxedo jacket with classic black pants and bow tie.

photo courtesy of The Photographix

The clean lines of this look allows for it to be formal without it being super stiff. And it’s a throwback to the Rat Pack era where chivalry still existed. This look would also be perfect for any vintage inspired wedding.

Another look that would invoke a vintage spirit is pants with suspenders and no jacket. This is a fun look perfect for the guy who takes this day seriously, but also wants to relax and have a good time. You can also be unique in having them wear brown or navy slacks instead of the traditional black. And pair this look with a bright and fun tie.

Photo courtesy of jHenderson Studios

Just as your wedding dress is your most important purchase and helps set the tone for the rest of the event, take into consideration what you and your fiancé want to put his guys in- because the bridesmaids and groomsmen should complement each other. And remember, it’s your fiancé’s special day too!

Tablescapes & Trends - City Club Fort Worth

2010-11-25T13:31:00.000-06:00

Trends are like shoes- they may still look good after a while, but they don’t always fit. Still, it’s important to try on as many pairs as you can, so you can get the perfect pair. When it comes to wedding trends, it’s not as easy to try them on.

Thankfully, City Club Fort Worth hosts an event that lets brides ‘try on’ current wedding trends. Tablescapes and Trends was created to offer brides a taste of the trendiest styles in color schemes, food, décor, lighting, and overall guest enjoyment.

In February, I was asked to create the overall theme for the ballroom. To begin with, my team and I created an inspiration list to help bring our Vintage/Retro Glam theme to life. I wanted the guests to see how you can transform a space by using key elements. Incorporating the colors white, turquoise, and red, I set off to carry my theme throughout every aspect of Tablescapes and Trends.

We began in City Club’s ballroom with a cocktail style reception. White lounge furniture was grouped in comfortable conversation areas throughout the room. Small white cocktail tables accented with ghost chairs provided places for guests to sit and enjoy their food. On the furniture we placed red and turquoise accent pillows to pop off the white of the furniture. The centerpieces were mismatched containers and consisted of red flowers and white vases with white decorative accents.

To give the room a dramatic aura, I asked Randal Stout, owner of LUMEN event lighting, to give the ballroom a deep red hue with turquoise accents. The color made the white dance floor glow and the beats for I Entertainment enticed the event guests to get into the mood. We also placed vintage accents around the room and added turquoise linens to the larger guest tables.

The key to using trends is to make it personal. I would suggest doing this by incorporating personal touches into your favors- using your favorite Pop Rocks, Fun Dip or Pixy Stix flavors or sending guests home with a small bag of your favorite cookies. Or if you’re environmentally conscious, give your guests a packet of seeds of your favorite flower or donating to an environmental organization in their name. To have a more of a retro favor, have a photo lounge where guests can get together and have their photo taken.

To finish off a Retro-Glam theme, have an exit with feathers instead of rose petals and use a vintage Rolls Royce instead of limousine as your getaway care.

If you plan on using a theme for your wedding, make sure that you stick to it- but don’t over-do it. Think carefully about where you can incorporate the theme. When you get stuck, take a step back, and be prepared to edit. Having a discerning eye for details is crucial because it helps you pull off a trendy wedding, without going overboard.

City Club Fort Worth hosts Tablescapes and Trends every year. Guests can also visit with the clubs’ preferred vendors and get a feel for how a wedding at the venue would be. So at the end of the day, don’t worry if the Tablescapes and Trends doesn’t fit with your personal style. The event is about more than the specific trend showcased. It’s about how to incorporate one trend into all the details of your wedding. It’s about what the fabulous team at City Club Fort Worth can do. And it’s another step closer to the most important day of your life.

And The Bride Wore White

2010-10-08T10:59:00.000-05:00

Finding the perfect outfit for any occasion can be difficult. But finding the perfect dress for the most important day of your life can be daunting. It’s seen in pictures for the rest of your life, it sets the theme of the wedding, and like it or not, every other female guest will be critiquing it. So no pressure!

Don’t be put off or hesitant to be excited about this process. It can be fun and meaningful if you relax and prepare yourself for what to expect. Here we have prepared some pointers on how to enjoy your shopping experience and to be prepared for the sometimes long and frustrating process. Following these guidelines will help ensure a smooth and successful wedding dress shopping occasion!

Make sure that wedding dress shopping is at the top of your priority list. The most obvious reason is that your gown will help set the style and theme of your wedding. But according to Wendy Holsomback, owner of Bliss Bridal in Fort Worth, gowns are taking about 4-6 months to come in once you place your order. She also says that you need to acknowledge about 6-8 weeks for alterations and to keep an eye on the calendar if you are planning on taking bridal portraits. “Don’t set your time line based on the date of your wedding. Keep all factors in consideration so that you are not crunched for time at the end and you have the opportunity to take bridal portraits.”

Make an appointment, or call ahead to see if one is necessary. This ensures you the time of a sales consultant, and issues you the ability to try on dresses. If you just show up on a busy Saturday, you may not be able to solicit the help of any employees or have a dressing room to try on gowns. Appointments will guarantee the best quality service. At Bridal Bliss, the average appointment time is: 1st visit- 1. 5 hours, 2nd visit- 1 hour, 3rd visit- $75.

Set a budget beforehand. You are wasting everyone’s time if you discuss budget at the appointment. The best thing to do is to call ahead to make sure what the salon carries will fit into your budget. Once you tell the sales consultant what your budget is, they will not show you anything out of that range- so be very honest about where that line is drawn.

Don’t bring a large crowd of people with you to the appointment. Wendy suggests 3 because it will help you narrow down to only those that truly love you and provides a more intimate and honest experience. Make sure you invite those that will truly be there for you and support you- because it is not about them.

Listen to the sales staff at the salon you are at. This is their job and they have worked with plenty of brides. They will often have their own suggestions on what will look best on your body and what will fit in your budget. Because of the delicate and often expensive material and dresses, store clerks are trained on giving you closer attention than necessary. They will pull all the dresses and assist you in the dressing room. Don’t be shy- they do this every day all day. And they know what they are doing and what is the best way to get in and out of each dress!

Wendy strongly encourages you to wear underwear to these appointments, regardless if you do normally or not. It can make for some awkward situations. And although it doesn’t really matter what color they are, nude is best. If you feel more comfortable bringing and wearing a strapless bra or corset bra, then feel free to bring it. But good quality gowns should be constructed well enough not to require additional undergarments.

Wear very little make up and make sure you don’t have anything on your body like tanning solution or lotion that might transfer to the dresses while you are trying them on. These substances can often ruin a very expensive gown.

You do not need to worry about bringing heels- because most salons won’t let you use them anyways. They have pedestals for you to stand on so you don’t need to worry if you are petite.

One of the most important things Wendy stresses is to not be jaded by photos in magazines. She welcomes your opinions and suggestions, but wants you to understand that those photos are professional for a reason. “Magazine advertisements have a certain dress with a certain model in the perfect light with the perfect set decoration, hair and accessories. Most of the times the dresses are pulled and tucked in the back to create an unrealistic effect.” The key here is to not have your heart set on something you see in a magazine, because the chances are that it will look different on you.

Going into this momentous occasion armed with these tips should ease your worry and fear about searching for the perfect dress. And no matter if it’s the first one you try on or the fiftieth, your fiancé will think you look like the most beautiful woman in the world. And that, is the perfect fit….

For more tips or to contact Bliss Bridal for an appointment, check out Wendy’s website and blog at www.blissfw.com.

All Photos provided by Bliss Bridal www.blissfw.com

The Wedding Party

2010-09-22T09:41:00.000-05:00

Weddings are about love, but they go beyond the love between you and your fiancé. Your wedding is also to show your love for your family and friends: by inviting them to share in your special day, and even selecting a few special ones to be active participants. Choosing your wedding party may seem like an easy task, but when you think of all the finances and feelings and time invested in being a part of your wedding, it may not be so easy.

Brothers, sisters, cousins, life-long friends, co-workers, roommates, and many other people have been involved in and shaped your life. Narrowing down that list is daunting, but the key is to remember that you can invite as many or as few as you would like. It’s important to keep in mind what type of wedding you are having. If you are having a very intimate affair, it’s not necessarily practical to have 10 bridesmaids. Budget aside, keep to this rule as a guide to how many people you have in your wedding party.

Photo by: Kevin Jairaj

Photo by Lynn Michelle Photography

Although bridesmaids and groomsmen are the most usual members of your wedding party, they are not the only options available to you. Let’s explore some of the others:

Personal attendants- if you decide to have any personal attendants, their role takes the shape of being your assistant. For the most part, they take off some of the pressure for your maid of honor. But more than that, you have someone dedicated to you explicitly for the day. They help carry and keep track of your belongings, help you into your dress and help you bustle it- they stand ready with lip gloss during photos. They make sure you eat and drink something during the day and are just there to ease the stress from you.

House Party/Hostesses- These ladies hand out programs, do the readings, hand out bubbles or flower petals and sometimes even assist with the gifts at the reception or cake cutting, depending on how formal your wedding is.
Ushers- These gentlemen help seat your guests. They can formally escort them or more casually direct them to the best seat. If you need to move chairs and/or tables, these are normally the best people to ask because they won’t be away taking pictures for very long.

Bride’s Man/Groom’s woman- Something we are seeing more frequently is to be more gender-free with your wedding party. If your brother or good friend has been important in your life, go ahead and ask them to stand up with you. The same goes for your groom. Generally, you would have a Bride’s man wear the same tux as groomsmen (possibly a different color) and you would have a Groom’s woman wear the same dress as your bridesmaids (possibly a different color).

Photo by: Daisy Photography

The possibility of having a large wedding party is always large. Be mindful however, of what costs these people are going to have to incur to be a part of your special day. Most will not say anything about their financial status, but be prepared if you are approached by someone with their limitations.

Tradition calls for the bride and groom to pay for any lodging for the wedding party and the bridesmaids and groomsmen to be responsible for their attire and transportation to the wedding (if they are from out of-town). Everyone is responsible for the other’s gifts.

The most important thing to remember when deciding on who you will ask to be in your wedding party, is to remember to surround yourself with love. Make sure you ask people who will show up, happily and will genuinely be grateful to share your special day. If you feel uncertain towards anyone, it’s usually better to reconsider, because you do not want one person to ruin the best day of your life.

True family and friends who have been there for you throughout your life will shower you with light and love. These are the people that you should have stand up with you to witness all the love that you have for your future spouse. They will help make your wedding day complete.

To have or not to have....kids at your wedding...

2010-09-21T12:09:00.000-05:00

First comes love, then comes marriage, then comes the bride pushing a baby carriage. This old teasing rhyme is used in schoolyard mocking all over the world. But when you’re planning your wedding, special thought is needed when dealing with the sensitive subject of inviting kids or not.
How do you determine whether or not children will be invited? Well first look to your personal preference as a couple. That could be an easy answer. However, you might want to consider how many of your friends and family have children- and how many of them would be forced to stay at home if they could not bring them with them. If there are not many, then you don’t need to worry either way. Also think about if you are having any children in your wedding party. Unless they are your own or a niece or nephew, think carefully about asking children to be in your bridal party. It wouldn’t look very good to parade them around at the ceremony and reception to the guests who couldn’t bring their children.

Let’s start off with your first step: invitations. If you are planning on not inviting children to your wedding, including the sentence: “Adult only reception” is considered bad etiquette. The proper way to invite guests to a wedding is including everyone’s name on the inner envelope. For example, if your cousin was a family of five and you were inviting children, the invitation would read:

Outside address envelope:
Mr. and Mrs. John Doe

Inside envelope:
Mr. and Mrs. Doe
Jenny, Joey and Julie

If you did not want to include their children, the envelopes would read:

Outside address envelope:
Mr. and Mrs. John Doe

Inside Envelope:
Mr. and Mrs. Doe

If you are inviting young adults over the age of 16, it is proper to issue them their own invitation. Make sure to include “…and guest” if you are okay with them inviting a date.

Of course, not everyone knows this etiquette rule and will RSVP with their whole family listed. The next part is a very tricky situation. If you truly do not want kids at the reception, then you have to be okay with the parents possibly not attending if you tell them they can’t bring their kids. The best way to handle this situation is to call the parents and tactfully and carefully tell them that children were not invited.

Since that is such a sensitive matter, it is best to gauge your reaction on a case by case basis.

If you have decided that you would like to have children at your wedding, there are many different ways to ensure that they are enjoying themselves.

The first is to designate a ‘kids’ table or tables, depending on how many you have attending. Be careful when separating them out, because you don’t want all young kids with young kids, but you want to be mindful of placing the teenagers at the ‘kids’ table. You can decorate this table differently with fun things for them to do: coloring books, games, bubbles, play dough, etc. Just make sure that you have NO candles- that could be dangerous. We would also encourage you to place this table far away from the bar and doors in and out of the kitchen. Placing them next to the cakes might also be too much temptation. If you have a great foyer or area that you can place balloon artists or character drawing artists, those are great additions to your reception that normally are budget friendly and will keep the kids entertained.

www.weddingbeepro.com

www.inthenowweddings.com

Another way to prepare for children at your wedding is to have a separate kid-friendly menu. Macaroni and cheese, chicken nuggets, French fries or pizza are huge hits with the younger crowd. Your caterer or venue should have no problem accommodating this since you will be able to give them a final count.

Our last, and almost best, piece of advice is look into hiring a nanny service. This is especially helpful if you will have a lot of kids. Nanny services for weddings are very popular and they have CPR certifications and a whole arsenal of techniques and games for keeping children occupied. They also provide a reprieve from parents to just enjoy the evening. Our favorite in the DFW area is Mom’s Best Friend- www.mbfagency.com

Whether or not kids are in your future, the question of inviting them to your wedding is entirely up to you. But we have prepared you with the proper techniques and ideas to enjoy your evening and to make sure that your guests enjoy theirs, regardless of who attends!

www.inspiredbythis.com

Practice Makes Perfect

2010-09-16T10:49:00.000-05:00

All the months planning and the hours spent on the phone with your friends and families have cumulated to this. Your wedding day has arrived. But you have one last hurdle to get over first: the rehearsal dinner. So many brides can’t enjoy this time because of all the stress they are in. But this is the last night of your single life and you should take the time to make it the best night of your life. Well, so far....

Tradition says that the rehearsal dinner is planned and paid for by the groom’s parents. But today’s modern bride isn’t necessarily pinned down to that standard. It’s important to talk to both sides of the family and see what everyone is comfortable with. It’s also important to express your wishes and desires regardless of who is footing the bill.

It’s also proper to invite any out of town guests to the rehearsal dinner, but if you have a large amount, and they will all be in the day before the wedding, customs have become lax as to the protocol. Depending on your plans and budget, including those unfamiliar with their surroundings is always nice, but remember that you are already taking care of them for the wedding. Most people don’t expect it in today’s wedding world. Just play fair. If you invite some guests (not associated with the wedding party), you should invite everyone.

Your rehearsal dinner is an extension of your wedding, and of course you want it to be extraordinary. But getting out the hum drum of dinner at a nice restaurant is tough. Thinking outside the box is not as easy for a rehearsal dinner because budgets are normally smaller. But it is possible to have a unique rehearsal dinner: one that will set the stage for the rest of your wedding weekend!

A few simple ways to spice up your rehearsal dinner is to center it around a theme. If you are going somewhere tropical for your honeymoon, incorporate that into the décor and cuisine. Or go oriental or Mexican if your taste buds favor one. But if you’re looking for something a step above, then you have to think outside the box. What kind of activities could get your guest to actively participate in your last night as an affianced couple? Look around locally to see if there is a sports game, a rodeo or a music and arts festival. Plan something that allows for interaction and takes the pressure off you to entertain. For a more casual affair, take your guests bowling, bumper cars, put putting or plan an all day golf excursion.

Something that is more upscale, while still being interactive is having your rehearsal dinner at a wine tasting or dinner theater. Or recreate the vice of Vegas by hosting a casino night. All of these options can have the privacy that you might want to create an intimate feel with your family and friends. You can request to have a private room during the activity or after so that you can dine or do any other planned activities.

One aspect of a rehearsal dinner that we want to make sure to mention is the moment of gratitude. You will be too busy and relishing in the moment to remember to say the proper thanks to everyone on your list. The rehearsal dinner is the perfect opportunity to take a breath and let everyone who is close to you know just how much you appreciate their love, support, time and presence in celebrating your marriage.

The biggest piece of advice that we can leave you with about your rehearsal dinner is to try to be as relaxed and calm about it as you can. This should be an occasion for you to reflect on the journey you have been on and to acknowledge the step you are about to take. So have fun and get some rest, because tomorrow is the first day of the rest of your life…..

To the Bride and Groom!

2010-08-27T08:49:00.000-05:00

Normally, when the words fun and unique are in conjunction with a design element, brides get scared away from the fear of it costing an exorbitant amount. But what if we told you that we had something that you could do at your wedding that was fun and unique AND saved you money? Interested? Well read on….

Signature drinks are the perfect way to mix adding something special to your big day and ease your budget. You can customize cocktails to match with your color scheme, theme, honeymoon or even a family tradition. And only serving a select type of alcohol eliminates unnecessary spending.

We recommend selecting a fruity cocktail, something stout and if your budget allows, something special like a champagne cocktail!

The best part of signature drinks is the creativity it requires. The sky is the limit in creating your own flavor and color combination. However, if you need help, we like the website www.stirrings.com. This site offers tons of advice and ideas on coming up with creative names and fun garnishes as well as gives you recipes to try and offers tons of other resources.

One aspect of creating a signature drink menu is taking the season into consideration. Having something tropical and exotic in the summer is refreshing for guests. Serving something cider based in winter is a great way to warm up your guests. And there is a multitude of great garnishes to use seasonally as well.

www.elizabethannedesigns.com

Make sure you talk to your venue and express your desires and what you want to do. If they don’t have glasses that are 'fun enough' for you, try speaking with a rental company to see what they have in their inventory.

The important thing when having a specialty drink is to have fun with it! Your guests will think it’s great that you created a custom cocktail! Be creative, have fun, and even insist on a sampling session!

Here are a few of our favorite recipes to get you started:
For our open house, we created signature pink cocktails since our party was “Tami Winn’s Pink Party”. Here is our favorite:

Poppin' Pink Partini:
It was equal parts of
-Watermelon Vodka
-Watermelon Liquor
-Cranberry Juice
-Splash of sweet and sour

Garnish: the glass was rimmed in a mixture of superfine sugar and watermelon pop rocks for a fun touch!

www.cocktailhacker.com

(More of our favorite recipes)
Winter Rum Punch
**can be made in large batch-form**
2 parts Flor de Cana Rum
1 part apple cider
1 part Benedictine or Orange liqueur
1/2 part maple syrup
1/2 part fresh lemon juice or grapefruit juice
Directions: Combine ingredients in a punch bowl. Add ice when ready to serve, and stir well. Ladle into punch glasses.
Garnish: candy canes and freshly grated nutmeg

www.nevisblog.com

Alien Secretion
Fill a 10oz. cocktail glass with ice
Add 3/4oz. of melon liqueur
Add 3/4oz. of coconut rum
Fill with pineapple juice
Garnish with a pineapple slice

www.notempire.com

Salud!!!

Food, Family and Fun

2010-08-22T17:06:00.000-05:00

Laughter and love: two of the most important things to have at a wedding. Well, you already have love. But a way to bring it out more and to induce laughter is to guarantee that your guests will have a good time. Sure, décor and dancing play an important role in this, but so does the dinner. And it is not just the cuisine that matters, but it is also about the entire experience.

Family style dining creates a casual, comfortable atmosphere that makes it easy for your guests to sit back and relax. And the more relaxed they are, the more your guests will enjoy themselves. Family style dining forgoes the stuffiness of a plated meal and the long lines of a buffet. It also allows your guest to enjoy sharing with each other and getting to know each other. Think of all the talking that has to be done just to pass the potatoes!

Serving food this way is reminiscent of family holidays and get together- where everyone is laughing, smiling and enjoying being with each other. With all that good spirit in the air, your wedding will be fun for everyone!

Family style dining works best with comfort food- veggies, potatoes, macaroni and cheese, meatloaf or any of your mom’s favorites! When you have to pass the food, it’s best to have a table layout that is conducive to this. Rounds will work, but so will long galley tables. Or, if your wedding is outdoors, why not have tables with benches, so everyone has to get really close together to eat!

Although this type of reception fare is becoming more popular, it’s not super traditional as far as weddings go. If you are receiving any doubts from friends or family members, remind them of the cultures around the world that consistently dine family style at weddings. If you take note, you’ll notice the correlation of family style dining with an emphasis on family values. The Italians, Irish and Chinese cultures all place emphasis on the family unit and this reflects in their dining- at home and at special events such as weddings. If you want to go with a more regional menu, use these three as a guideline to create the perfect dining experience. Sheppard’s pie, spaghetti and meatballs or any Chinese dish would be a big hit at your reception- both in flavor and in fun!

www.yumsugar.com

www.sanjuanislandcatering.blogspot.com

http://www.oneworldweddings.com/

Tami Winn's Pink Party

2010-08-03T22:03:00.000-05:00

It's been a while since we posted, but I couldn't pass up the opportunity to blog about our recent open house. We wanted to share the excitement of our new office with all of the wonderful vendors we work with that help to make our lives easier and our events beautiful. On July 29th, we had the "Tami Winn's Pink Party" and it was a blast! If you know me at all, you know that I love anything pink...especially HOT PINK! There was no better way to showcase our new studio than to have an all pink event. Everything from drinks, desserts, lighting, props. It was amazing and thanks to all that attended. Check out the wonderful vendors below that helped bring everything together and also the pics taken by our friend, Tracy Autem!!

Vendors:

Amazing Food - City Club Fort Worth

Beautiful Pink Lighting - Beyond

Awesome Pics - Tracy Autem Photography

Delicious Desserts - Sublime Bakery

Fun Flipbooks - i Entertainment

Phenomenal Bartender - SNIC Bartending, Sue Veraneau

Liquor - Two Bucks Liquor

Pipe and Drape - Bella Rentals

The Day After The First Day of The Rest of Your Life....

2010-06-23T13:38:00.000-05:00

The next day always brings a myriad of thoughts. “I can’t believe it’s over.” “I’m so glad it’s over”, “what happened last night?” I can’t believe that happened last night”. It’s hard to wake up the day after your wedding and resume a normal life. The spotlight is off, the confetti has been tossed, and everyone else has gone home. So what do you do? Well now couples are finding a way to keep the magic for a bit longer. Introducing, the ‘day after’ photo shoot. This can be interchanged with “trash the dress”. Most couples get minimal alone time to do fun or creative photos. And then there is the worry that something happens to the dress while you still have a whole reception to participate in. Scheduling a photo shoot the day (or a few days) after your big day is quickly becoming a sought after wedding package.

photo by Lynn Michelle- www.lynnmichelle.com

DFW photographer Kevin Jairaj of KJ Images says that these photo shoots are becoming increasingly popular. “Couples are now having later ceremonies to take advantage of a more intimate setting with candlelight. But that poses a problem for photographers. It means that we run short on time and lighting.” Jairaj continues to say that many couples schedule the shoot either before they leave on their honeymoon or for when they return. “There is so much less pressure on the bride and groom- they don’t have to worry about their dress or their hair and make-up or looking good in front of their friends and family. They can relax and end up having a lot of fun with the shoot because it’s just about them”!

photo by Kevin Jairaj- www.kjimages.com

On the other side of the lens, if you will, are those couples who have had a terrible experience with their original photographer. Lynn Michelle of Lynn Michelle Photography says that many of her clients come in devastated over their wedding day photos. “Some photographers are just not qualified or do not have enough experience to create and stick to a successful schedule or timeline. Their clients come to me hoping to make up for the lack of quality photos they had on their wedding day,” says Michelle. “I end up re-doing a lot of traditional, candid shots that please mom and dad, and then I can get creative!”

photo by Lynn Michelle- www.lynnmichelle.com

Day after shoots are also popular because it allows the bride to get more mileage out of their dress. It gives brides another day to have all about them- which helps their ‘wedding day withdrawals’. However, the grooms’ involvement can be sensitive. Michelle finds that “most grooms are totally done with wedding, being in a tux and over their photography experience. They don’t want anything to do with another shoot”. But Jairaj has a different take on their attitude. Although they can be reserved at first, Jairaj says that once they get into the session, they get more excited. “It’s a chance for the husbands to take sensual, sexy photos with their wife. It can be a once in a lifetime experience, and once they warm up, they are totally invested.”

photo by Kevin Jairaj, www.kjimages.com

Whether their first photographer experience was good or bad, many brides know that their dress will never be worn again- so they might as well have fun and make memories while destroying the most important element of their big day. Since Jairaj does many destination weddings each year, he has one of the best locations for this type of shoot. The sun, the sand, the beach- all are elements that can create a magical shot. “I can get some really good scenic shots, and then at the end- the brides are so excited to get in the water and get some great shots. With all the salt and sand- their dress is ruined. But they will get more use out of the photos then they ever would of their dress,” says Jairaj.

photo by Lynn Michelle- www.lynnmichelle.com

Both photographers like to take into account the couple’s interests and format the shoot around them. Michelle had a couple that was extremely into art- Eric gave Julie a painting for her wedding present. So it only seemed fitting to do their day after shoots at a paintball range. They brought out paints and got to finger paint each other- and even threw paint grenades to get massive spots of color. “I had so much fun at that shoot and got some great moments between Julie and Eric. But I wouldn’t recommend throwing paint grenades around photography equipment. It’s been two years and I still have the evidence on some of my cameras!” says Michelle.

photo by Lynn Michelle- www.lynnmichelle.com

photo by Lynn Michelle- www.lynnmichelle.com

One of Jairaj’s most memorable day after sessions happened well after the wedding day. His bride was pregnant at her wedding, so she waited until after she had the baby and lost all the baby weight- then she and her husband went back to capture more intimate moments. “I was just blown away at this session. My former bride looked stunning and I got some really good shots”, says Jairaj.

The saying goes “A picture is worth a thousand words”. So if you have two photo sessions- you have a lot more to say about yourself, your wedding, and your spouse. And these are the memories that last a lifetime. Your dress is just going to collect dust….

Check out Lynn Michelle’s coverage on the Today show!
http://lynnmichelle.smugmug.com/gallery/9819189_WDWGB#887169564_6TvSn-A-LB

Summer Weddings = Haute Bridesmaids

2010-06-21T18:33:00.000-05:00

The number one worry of your friends when you ask them to be a bridesmaid, is “oh god, what is she going to make me wear. And how much is it going to cost?” If you yourself have ever been a BM, you understand the trepidation that girls go through. So how to please everyone? Some say it is impossible. Others say that it’s not your responsibility to make your friends happy- that it’s your wedding and they should do whatever you want. But is that what kind of bride you want to be, and more importantly, what kind of friend you want to be?

There are un-measurable ways to ensure that your vision is held intact while still making your bridesmaids happy. We previously wrote about allowing your bridesmaids to choose their own dress. We still believe that this is the best way to please everyone. This allows them to pick a dress based on their body type, personal style and budget, but within your guidelines.

But there are other ways to have a continuous look but still respecting your friend’s individuality. Think of something unique that you could do for dresses, while still taking into account your girl’s personal styles and body types.

One-shoulder dresses are a very popular trend right now. They are usually paired with an empire waist and an a-line skirt. Embellishments on these dresses help make them special.

www.womensweddingdresses.com

www.milanoo.com

Tea length dresses are usually the best length of dress to select unless you are going for a super formal look. You can keep these dresses casual or dress them up using accessories. They are also flattering on petite girls or taller girls.

www.jormabridal.com

If you are the type of bride that loves to be different, try incorporating texture or prints into your bridesmaid dresses. It’s a perfect way to show your individuality and give your bridesmaids something fun to wear- and something that they may wear again! Print dresses are becoming extremely popular for summer weddings right now. And don’t be afraid to use bold prints- that’s part of making your day special!

www.prettychicky.com

www.tickledpink.com

www.oncewed.com

www.victoriasbridalcouture.com

www.rockthediamond.files.wordpress.com

www.4.bp.blogspot.com

www.inlovewithweddings.com

The important thing to remember is that traditional bridesmaid dresses are a thing of the past. Today’s chic bride knows that a stylish bridesmaid is happy bridesmaid. And remember to be kind, because you never know when you are going to have to return the favor!

The Color of Love

2010-05-13T14:29:00.001-05:00

Do you dream in color? Or do you find yourself remembering your dreams like the Wizard of Oz, where Dorothy is transported into a land of color from drab gray? In both instances, color can often be taken for granted. Ask someone who is color blind what it means to see the brilliance of the ocean or the burning of the sun. Colors at your wedding can affect your guests the way they would in real life. The trick is if you’re going to choose a strong color, be strong about how you use it. Bold colors are beautiful and can create a whole aura throughout your wedding. Using them correctly can instantly transform your wedding from an ordinary occasion to an extraordinary event.

Canary and Slate

This sophisticated color combination can be classic yet modern all at the same time.

You can accent these colors with black or ivory linens, gold etched stemware and even touches of green. Since Yellow can be over powering, the trick here is to keep all the lines crisp and clean- very elegant and modern. For your bridesmaid’s dresses, we suggest slate or black in color. They are more universally flattering and yellow will pop well off of the more neutral color. You can still be unique by using unusual flowers, but keep things simple with the canary and slate color combination. There are many yellow toned flowers out there, but we would suggest using white as either the predominant flower color, or a major accent. This softens the yellow and creates a more pleasing palette. You can get really creative with the different types of containers you use for your centerpieces- using slate or canary or a combination of both! Using yellow in your wedding also gives you freedom to use produce as a centerpiece! Whole or cut lemons add a touch of freshness to any day or evening wedding.

Photo Credit: greenfloristchicago.com

Photo credit: emeraldengagements.com

Photo Credit: keentobeseen.net

Turquoise and Violet

Romance and mystery exude from this color combination. More muted tones will offer a more subdued mood while more saturated jewel tones will give off more energy.

This color combination is not for the weak of heart. These colors need to be used magnificently and vicariously throughout your entire wedding. Touches of these colors will just fade into the background. This combination needs to be a prominent part of your wedding. Because these colors are so easy on the eye, you can use them in every aspect. From linens to goblets and centerpieces, turquoise and violet can create a mysterious, exotic feel.

An accessory that can pull all this together is the peacock feather. Because it has both colors, this becomes a neutral element. It adds whimsy and character into your wedding, and still pulls everything together.

Photo credit: weddingbeepro.com

Photo credit: wedluxe.blogspot.com

Photo credit: getmarried.com

Photo credit: farm4.static.flickr.com

Fuchsia and Tangerine

Perfectly in time for summer, fuchsia and tangerine are the perfect colors for a tropical, lighthearted, summery affect.

This color combination gives you the most freedom and allows you to have the most fun. They are flattering on any skin tone and look great as short or long bridesmaid dresses. Flowers come abundantly in shades of pink and orange, so you can literally choose anything under the sun to be your centerpieces. For the bright hues, however, we really like adding crisp complimentary tones such as green and brown.

These colors are perfect for a wedding outdoors. The stars, the breeze, the scent of romance, the hint of magic and a beautifully decorated wedding- what more could a bride ask for? These colors are so close in the color wheel, that they can be used intermittently. Have fuchsia dresses with tangerine tuxedo vests- or vice versa. Carry bouquets in monochromatic schemes- pink-orange-pink-orange. And one of our favorite things to add to this combination is sparkle. Faux rhinestones or fine pixie dust will pick up the light and enhance these colors in photos and in real life.

Photo credit: azcakes.com

Photo credit: richardsonwedding.wordpress.com

Photo credit: inthenowweddings.com

Photo credit: weddingpaperdivas.com

Photo credit: Helmut Walker Photography

Of course these are only a small selection in the myriad of possibilities when it comes to wedding colors. But our point is to choose boldly and to use wisely. The sky is the limit when it comes to color- and when we say the sky, we mean cerulean……….

Grand Opening...The Wedding Party Studio in Fort Worth!

2010-05-10T10:07:00.000-05:00

Join the Wedding Party Studio as they have their grand opening of their new Fort Worth location. They will host a sip and see open house at de ma fille bridal boutique on Sunday, May 16th from 12-5pm.

Location: de ma fille bridal boutique ~ 2964 Park Hill Drive ~ Fort Worth, Texas ~ 76109

RSVP: info@twpstudio.com or 214-296-4908

Visit: www.twpstudio.com for more information

Something Old, New, Borrowed, and Blue

2010-05-07T16:03:00.001-05:00

There are so many things to remember on your wedding- checks for vendors, gifts for family members, your myriad of bags. But there are four things that traditionally, should never be forgotten. The old adage “Something old, Something New, Something borrowed and Something blue” is a historic wedding custom. What many people don’t know is that the last line of that poem is usually missing. The last line reads: “And a sixpence in her shoe”. Each of these items signify a good-luck token for the bride-to-be. Traditionally, her bridesmaids assist in gathering these tokens. But the prepared bride has several choices to consider for each of these requirements.

Something old connects the bride to her family and past. Since almost every bride that ever gets married follows these customs, it’s getting harder and harder to get creative. But some unique ways to fit in something old into your wedding are:

• Vintage jewelry- earrings, bracelets or necklaces not only can compliment your dress, but can fill this requirement. Even a strategically placed broach can add flair and drama to your ensemble.
• Wearing the veil your mom or grandma wore (or part of it)- this is a sure way to honor the women in your family.
• Signature perfume- your husband-to-be can recognize this scent at 100 paces. Why not wear it on your wedding day and be uniquely you?
• To get really creative, use a piece of fabric from your mom’s dress, your grandfather’s hankie or an antique piece of lace to tie around the stems of your bouquet. You will have the constant reminder of your past giving you strength the whole way down the aisle!

Photo credit: i-weddings.blogspot.com

Photo credit: lifeisartphoto.com

Something new means optimism and hope for the future and the bride’s new life. The most obvious ways to accomplish this item is to count your wedding dress or wedding ring. But anyone can do that. Why pass on an opportunity to go shopping? Get a fabulous piece of jewelry for the occasion- or an expensive pair of shoes. However, having something new doesn’t require you to purchase anything. Using a new sixpence or penny will count. And the fresh flowers you carry on your wedding are new!

Something borrowed is usually a lent item from a happily married friend, which is intended to carry over to the bride’s marriage. But it can be from your mom, sister, aunt or cousin as well. Popular ideas are jewelry, veils and purses. But some fresh ideas are the cake cutting set, toasting flutes or cake toppers. A clan or sorority pin could also be borrowed. Even your shoes could be borrowed!

Something blue can be traced back to ancient Rome where brides wore the color to symbolize love, modesty and fidelity. Virgin Mary has also been traditionally dressed in blue, which in turn symbolized purity. Here is where you can get the most creative. Some fun ideas are a piece of blue Austrian crystal in jewelry or a hair barrette, painting your toenails light blue, blue toasting flutes, blue flowers and blue shoes! Some really fun ways of incorporating a blue element in your wedding is to have your bouquet stems wrapped in light blue ribbon or to have a temporary tattoo in blue hidden on your body. Those are great ways of standing out in this category!

Photo credit: elaneymedia.com

Photo credit: weddingmagic.com

Photo credit: bride.net

The silver sixpence represents wealth and financial security. Many companies sell keepsake sixpences for weddings.

Photo credit: comparestoreprices.co.uk

Photo credit: silversixpence.com

Once you have these 4 or 5 items, you can breath easier knowing that centuries of good luck is on your side!

A wedding planner’s guide to a flawless wedding- 5 tips to remember for your big day!

2010-04-23T16:58:00.000-05:00

Catching the perfect Frame-
Your dress will be put in storage, the cake will be eaten, and no one will remember what songs were played at your wedding. But you will always have the pictures. And in order to make sure you have the ones you want, you need to make sure you communicate with your photographer in advance. Have a plan for what photos you want taken, and in what order. Trust the advice that your photographer gives you- they are in this business for a reason.

A common occurrence that many brides find is that their pictures are rushed or they don’t get all of the ones taken that they want. Planning ahead for this will ensure that you have a permanent memory with everyone that you want. It’s always a good idea to take at least some photos before the wedding. If you are a traditional couple and do not want to see each other before the ceremony, then take separate photos with your wedding parties and respective families- then you can quickly do group shots afterwards.

However, if you are not traditional, taking all your photos before hand is a huge timesaver, and sometimes even gives you more opportunities for some really amazing shots. You will not be rushing to get out of the church or to the reception.

Let it Go-
You know those brides who over react and turn into a bridezilla- and you know how you felt watching them have a meltdown. Make sure that you do not have a repeat performance. It’s important to remember that on your wedding day, everything is planned for and thought of. And if some mishap happens, or something goes wrong, there is normally not one thing you can do about it.

Relaxing and letting go of the small things will actually lead to a more enjoyable day. You will not be caught up in the negatives and will able to focus on the positives. Like the fact that you are marrying the love of your life….

Sometimes it’s easier to laugh when you’re feeling stressed, so make sure you surround yourself with those that love you and make you feel good. If anything becomes more than you can handle- you can lean on them to take your mind off things.

The Right Time-
We’ve talked about planning ahead and relaxing on your wedding day- one small thing that will accomplish both of these is to pay attention to your schedule throughout the day. There is nothing worse than being rushed and not being able to enjoy your special day. And it’s even worse if you are late!

Make sure you give you and your ladies plenty of time for hair and make-up. Tell your stylist to be generous when setting the appointments. If you get ready at a salon, many of them have packages where you can order lunch directly through the salon. If not, just have a small sandwich or wrap tray brought in. This saves you from having to go get something and makes sure that you eat something during the day.

Definitive Details-
Sure you have your dress, the food and the music, but have you done further thought into the details of your wedding? Most brides don’t realize what a major impact the small details can make. All these little details add up to create a more personal wedding atmosphere. There are a lot of small things that you can do to help create this affect.

Having your shoes one of your wedding colors gives you a bit of drama and flair- and makes you a more unique bride.

Lighting is also another detail that most brides do not think about. Lighting dramatically affects the mood of your guests. It can create a calming atmosphere during dinner and transition into a younger, hipper feel when it is time for dancing. Talk to a lighting company to hear their suggestions on where the areas of impact would be throughout your room.

Your lighting company can also create a custom monogram for you. This can be carried throughout your wedding as a common theme on your invitations, your programs, etc. A lighting company can create a GOBO for you to have displayed on the dance floor or on a neutral wall during your reception. Such a personal touch is the perfect way to begin your new life as a married couple.

Tasteful Trends-
You see it all the time in magazines and on television. Trends are a bride’s worst nightmare. Yes, having current trends are important, but when too much emphasis is placed on them, your wedding loses its primary focus- you and your fiancé.

Carefully examine what social media is telling you is in-style for weddings. If it doesn’t fit the two of you as a couple, don’t do it. It will seem awkward and out of place on your wedding day if it is not personal to you as a couple.

YOUR BIG DAY HAS FINALLY ARRIVED

2010-04-23T16:54:00.000-05:00

They say that your wedding is your BIG day. Why is that? Is it because you are committing your life to someone else? Is it because your reception is a grand affair? And why do they say it’s only your one day? Yes, everything accumulates to align with the date you set with your church and send to all your family and friends. But you spend months, even years planning this event. And sadly, everything happens within 24 hours. So how do you remember to enjoy the day? How do you remember anything about that day? Well, take it from a wedding planning team that has planned hundreds of weddings and know the details of the day inside and out. Follow these tips below to ensure that not only does your wedding go off without a hitch, but that you remember it and remember to enjoy it!

Have a private moment with your spouse after the ceremony- Many couples immediately start welcoming their guests and accepting well wishes. This can cause you to lose the magic and romance of the commitment you just made. Have a private room or area available for you and your new spouse to sneak off to right after you walk down the aisle together. This allows you to reflect on what just happened, and talk about the day so far. More often than not, you haven’t spoken to them much, if at all. This is a big moment in your life, and you want to make sure it is as special as possible.

If possible, view your reception room before your grand entrance- Although this is not always entirely possible, depending on the timeline of your day, you will be able to appreciate all the details that you and your vendors worked so hard to create. If your guests are enjoying a cocktail hour in a foyer or separate room, have the facility staff sneak you in a back entrance. You may get to see last minute details being attended to, and how fun is it to see your vision coming together!

Say hello/thank you to your vendors- You may not see all of them, but the ones that you do see, you should make an effort to say hello and thank you for their services. Acknowledging them just solidifies the relationship you have made and makes them strive harder to make you and your guests happy. Besides, thanking someone for all of their hard work is always nice! You couldn’t have done it without them!

Say thank you to your parents or other special people that have been involved on your day- This can be done in several places. If you are not comfortable speaking in front of a large room full of people- you and/or your fiancé can do this at the rehearsal dinner. However, speaking at your actual reception will have the most impact. It usually helps to have something pre-written, or at least speaking points. If your parents paid for everything, or spent a lot of time helping you put together the details, acknowledge their efforts, not just for raising you, but for contributing in whatever way to your wedding day.

Any other special family members or friends that have helped or donated their time should be thanked at this time as well. A public thank you often goes further than a card or gift. Blame it on human nature. We have a yearning to feel appreciated.

MARRIAGE LICENSE AND WEDDING RINGS!- These are arguable two of the most important things to remember on your wedding day. It’s important to keep in mind that it would be nice to have a copy of your marriage license before sending it off to be filed. This is a good idea for two reasons. 1) Insurance. Just in case it gets lost in the mail, you can prove that you did in fact have it. 2) Travelling purposes. If you have booked your honeymoon in your married name, you will need a copy of this to prove you are in fact, who you say you are. With the FAA regulating strict flying rules, you don’t want to miss your flight. This could also help when checking in to ask for free upgrades. In case they ask for proof- you can whip out your marriage license and receive fabulous upgrades! Don’t forget to bring your rings and give them to the appropriate bridal party member. But more importantly, make sure they remember to take them to the ceremony and they know what to do with them! Practice this at the rehearsal so it goes smooth at the actual live performance!

Don’t forget to Eat!- This means during the day and during your reception. Especially if you are partaking in alcoholic beverages. Nothing is worse than making a fool of yourself on your wedding day. Eating will help prevent this possibility. And don’t forget to sample your reception fare! You picked it out, you should be able to enjoy it on your wedding day!!!

Put someone in charge at the end of the evening- Make sure you designate someone to take home the gifts, your personal items, any leftover cake, food or floral arrangements. Share this with your wedding planner and facility so they can have the appropriate staff assist this person. It’s usually a good idea to designate someone who you know will be capable of handling this at the end of the night. Plan ahead so they know if they are taking the belongings with them, transporting them to your hotel room, or taking them to your home.

Have fun!!!- You planned this day for your guests to enjoy. Why shouldn’t you?? Remembering all these tips will help you be able to relax and remember the details of this day. And you need to be able to hang out, dance, and have a good time at your reception. If you are not having fun, then none of the countless hours you spent will be worth it. And this needs to be a day to be remembered…….

Generous Gifts

2010-04-06T22:06:00.001-05:00

Bridal Party attire- $200.00. Hair and makeup- $90.00. Travel and accommodations- $500.00. Wedding gift- $75. The list of what costs your bridal party can incur goes on and on. All to be there to support your new life. To share with all your friends and family that they are part of your story. And plan to be forever.

So what in the world can you do to show your thanks?

Yes, etiquette dictates that you cover lodging or attire. But not many people can do that. Especially when they have 6, 7, 8 or more on each side in their wedding party. Instead, (or in addition), current trends suggest that you offer those bridal party members a gift. All members. From the flower girl to house party.

But what to get them? Of course you can say you’ll give the bridesmaid’s jewelry to wear during the wedding or flasks for the groomsmen to use when they aren’t supposed to. But those don’t show how special the honor is of having them a part of your big day. Besides, depending on how many weddings you get invited to be in, you could have quite the collection of monogrammed flasks.

So get creative!

Monograms are still really popular with female friends. One of the current trends is towel wraps. You can do initials or full names and have the towel and thread in your wedding colors. This is something useful and youthful, and definitely something that your wedding party would use again. These can be found at countless local retailers and online stores.

photo credit: www.missymonogram.com

Something else ladies love is a trip to the spa. This is also useful in spending time together the day of the wedding. You can arrange for massages, and manicures and pedicures to get your girls feeling rested and beautiful!

A really unique (and maybe even a cross-gender) gift is personalized cooler chairs. This gift idea is unique and something that is guaranteed to be a big hit.

Photo credit and website: http://www.mybridesmaidsgifts.com/personalized-cooler-chair-emb027.html

Another great idea for the ladies in your wedding is to get individual gifts based on each ladies’ love or hobby. Why not a great clutch if she loves going out for a night on the town? Or for example, if one of your ladies loves cooking, or sushi, why not get her a sushi set? We like the set found at http://www.mybridesmaidsgifts.com/japanese-bowl-chopsticks-set-gbr432.html.

Now, men can be a little tougher for several reasons. The first is that they just don’t care. Buy them some beer and a round of golf, and most of them would be pleased as a peach. The other reason is that they are tougher to buy for. Monogrammed items are not as current as they use to be. So flasks and cuff links are out.

Guys are best pleased when given something useful. Try a Swiss Army knife. Today there are so many models to choose from. Some even have staplers in them for the practical businessman!

photo credit and website: www.aroundthesphere.com

But guys are also pleased with something cool. A unique idea that would be seen in every man cave in your wedding party is a personalized pub sign. Check out the ones at http://www.mygroomsmengifts.com/personalized-pub-signs-dsgc268.html. There are several different styles to choose from- you can get creative, funny, or sentimental. And think of all the fun you would have explaining why you chose each one!

For those guys who are sports enthusiasts, anything legendary is a good gift. Get a classic Rawlings baseball bat with their name on it or a personal message. http://www.mygroomsmengifts.com/rawbasbat.html.

Whatever your budget and personal style is, make sure that you really consider what would be used and loved by your wedding party. Of course, just being asked to stand up with you as you take the most important vows of your life should be gift enough. But pay attention to the lengths that each and every one of them have to go through to be a part of that. Because the relationships that you build are the greatest gift of all.

Savor Your Big Day

2010-04-04T11:06:00.000-05:00

Every bride wants to make sure their wedding stands out from all the rest. You can do that with lighting, with decor, or entertainment. But the biggest, and often most important way you can ensure your reception is a cut above, is to pay attention to the food.

It’s not about having a 5 star gourmet meal or saving tons of money by cooking your own food. It’s about the experience your guests receive. The food could be average, but if they have a good time, most often, the quality isn’t always noticed.

Having said that, the quality of food is very important. When you marry those two aspects together, you will get a truly phenomenal result.

Amy Shackelford, Director of Catering and Event Sales for City Club Fort Worth says that there are several elements to consider when trying to provide your guests with a food experience. She suggests offering dinner stations instead of buffet or a plated dinner. “Dinner stations where guests have small plates of food give the feel of a cocktail party instead of a super formal dinner. It provides variety in food selection and alleviates the time guests have to stand in a line to get their food”.

Stations are also best for bite-sized pieces of food. “We are seeing a trend in mini foods. Something where a guest can pop it in their mouth and go. It’s rare to have 100% seating at weddings, so having stations with smaller foods helps keep the guests moving around”, says Rachel Pullium, Catering and Sales Manager for Gil’s Elegant Catering.

“Our mini Kobe burger live action station is very popular. It’s a gourmet food item, but more approachable than a steak,” continues Rachel.

Photo By City Club Fort Worth

Another great food experience is having a cocktail hour. Any type of passed canapé is a great way to transition from ceremony to reception. Some of Gil’s most well known canapés are their chicken salad on masa shortbread, mini crab cakes with remoloude sauce and pork tenderloin on sweet potato pancakes.

Photo by Gil's Elegant Catering

It’s also important to think about the time that your wedding and/or reception is. This is crucial when providing your guests with the best possible experience. Most guests will expect brunch, lunch, or heavy hors d'oeuvres from 11am – 4pm. Anywhere from 5pm and on, guest will expect a full meal, whether you choose buffet, stations or a plated meal.

One word of advice...Make sure you eat some food in an area away from your guests before your big entrance. This is advantageous for several reasons. First, you get a chance to eat the delicious food you so meticulously picked out. Second, you actually get food in your body. And lastly, eating away from your guests guarantees an un-interrupted meal. If you eat with all your friends and family, you will hardly be able to put a bite of food in your mouth before someone is trying to congratulate you.

If you have a wedding planner, make sure you have their staff set this up for you. Otherwise, plan these arrangements with your facility personnel.

After dinner, custom dictates that you cut and serve your wedding cake. That tradition is hard to break. However, the ‘groom’s’ cake tradition, is evolving. Couples are now choosing to do cupcake or donut towers. Candy bars or desert bars are also becoming more popular. But Amy Shackelford and her team at City Club have a unique desert option for couples. They have created a Banana’s Foster station in lieu of the groom’s cake.

“Guests seem to really enjoy the Banana’s Foster desert station because of the interaction between them and the chef. The chef cooks on [portable] stove tops and the rum causes the flames to shoot up- it’s always a really fun aspect at a reception. Then the guests can choose whatever toppings they want,” says Amy.

Photo by City Club Fort Worth

Photo by City Club Fort Worth

Even though one of the most important aspects of your reception is the food, it doesn’t mean that it can’t reflect your personal style as a couple. Make sure you add personal touches from favorite foods to cute containers that you like.

Just make sure to pay extra special attention to the food…your guests will appreciate it and you will be able to enjoy your day so much more. Maybe even savor it.

Jennifer and Max are Married!

2010-03-24T09:41:00.000-05:00

On February 13th I had the pleasure of creating the dream wedding for one of the kindest, most amazing families I have ever worked with. Jennifer and Max were married at Robert Carr Chapel and the reception followed at Colonial Country Club. Although we had some crazy weather that week with record snowfall in Texas, the wedding day turned out to be just beautiful. We worked with some amazing vendors to create this spectacular wedding and I want to make sure and give everyone credit where it's due!

Ceremony: Robert Carr Chapel

Reception: Colonial Country Club

Rehearsal Dinner: Mira Vista Country Club

Photographer: Tracy Autem

Videographer: Turquoise Video Productions

Band: Think Big and the Bullet Proof Brass

Lighting: LITE Dallas

Transportation: Silver West Limo

Rentals: Celebration Events and Posh Couture

Cakes: The Cake Guys

String Quartet: Forte Strings

My staff really amazed me that week. The wedding day was flawless and the flowers and decor looked fabulous! The hard work (and sleepless Thursday night) really paid off!

I want to also mention that I LOVE this family for putting their trust in me to create their floral designs with little direction. We basically never even discussed flowers or decor. I put together what I thought they wanted for their tablescape and they said it was perfect. How easy is that?

I worked a lot with Jennifer's parents, Jerry and Cheryl, and they were just precious. I adore their entire family and look forward to many, many more years of friendship.

Enjoy the photos provided by Tracy Autem. She did an outstanding job!

Tami

Time to Shed Some Light

2010-03-10T22:00:00.000-06:00

It’s time to shed some light on an element that is so often over looked at weddings. What’s one of the first things you do when you get up in the morning and the last thing you do before bed? Switch a light on or off, right? Light plays such an integral role in our daily lives. Florescent office lighting is harsh and depressing. Sunshine energizes us and makes us happy. Candlelight relaxes and romances us.

Since light is such an important aspect of our day, why would you not consider it an important part of your wedding? Photographers know this trick, and have all sorts of sneaky ways to manipulate light in photos. But having great lighting is not only a photographer’s trick. It is something that creates a huge impact, with minimal effort throughout a reception.

One of Tami Winn Events’ favorite lighting tricks is color washing. Up lights placed specifically around the room ‘washes’ the room in a selected color. Besides helping set the mood, this helps detract from any undesirable traits from the room. We suggest a neutral color like champagne during dinner and then shifting to more dramatic bold colors for dancing. Having this change in lighting affects your guests profoundly. They feel as if they go from an elegant dinner to a trendy dance lounge. They know that when the ‘lights go down’, it’s time to party.

Photo Credit, Tracy Autem Photography

Photo Credit, Static Sixx Photography

Photo credit: Birdseye Photography

Your event designer or florist will tell you that pin spotting your centerpieces is a must. Pin spotting basically means that you place a spotlight on a specific location. They are normally used to highlight amazing centerpieces. Using pin spots in conjunction with color washing creates a truly stunning look.

Photo Credit, Sarah Miloud

Having a custom monogram turned into a Gobo is a unique way to make your reception personal. You can use your new last name or you and your fiance’s initials. The best location to place a gobo is on a wall or the dance floor. If you are not using a monogram, try a funky design instead. This creates visual interest and is definitely a unique element.

Photo credit: BluDoor Studios

Like other tricks of the trade, lighting can make a person, or a room look better than they naturally do. Great lighting also sets whatever specific mood that you are wanting your reception to have. It can give your guests a feeling of elegance, fun, and romance. It is a an element of receptions that is often overlooked. And it is a fantastic element to include if you are wanting to make a huge impact. But before you leave your reception, make sure you remember to switch the light!

Special thanks to LITE Dallas for providing amazing lighting on all of the events shown in this article!

To Have And To Hold...

2010-03-02T20:13:00.000-06:00

There is no question that the single statement a bride makes on her wedding day is with her wedding dress. It’s what every other female from the ages of 6 to 60 will discuss to some degree throughout the course of the day. What no one realizes, however, is how important her accessories are. Specifically, her bouquet. The flowers she carries are as important to the success of the wedding gown as the dress itself. Having an ultra modern bouquet with a traditional gown is not only mis-matched, but it could draw negative attention.

Deciding on the color and flowers of your bouquet is just the first step of designing your bouquet. Today, brides are adding accessories to the bouquet itself.

Color- Some brides choose white or ivory flowers to match their dress. Others choose to go with the colors they have selected for their wedding. Either way has it’s advantages. A neutral bouquet does not stand out from your dress and is a very classic look. However, adding in some color will contrast with your dress, and make the details more noticeable. And depending on the flowers you select, color can still be very traditional.

Flowers- Brides sometimes do not realize that it is not always the best idea to use only their favorite flowers and take no other types into consideration. A skilled florist will be able to take your favorites and suggest complimentary flowers in the same style and color scheme. It’s also important to note what the style or theme of your wedding is. If you’re planning a very traditional wedding, roses, hydrangea peonies and tulips are timeless flowers that will fit in nicely. And they all come in a multitude of colors. If your wedding is more modern, calla lilies, orchids and anemones are common flowers to use in your bouquet. Don’t be afraid to be adventurous and try things like scabiosa pods or nerine lilies. You may have never heard of them, but that doesn’t mean they wouldn’t look beautiful in your bouquet.

Accessories- Every bride tries to outdo her peers with lighting, décor and food. But the most personal detail she tries to set herself apart with is her bridal bouquet. From the color of the ribbon to the texture of the flowers, her choices are under close scrutination from every single female guest (and some males)! But those are not the only ways she can make her bouquet unique. Jewels, personal touches and unique non-living additions are dominating bouquet designs.

Crystals are one of the most popular jewels that brides add to their bouquet. Brooches or pins can be inserted into the bouquet itself, or rather, you can wrap a rhinestone trim around the stems of the bouquet to add sparkle in an unexpected place. Rhinestones are not just for the bride. Bridesmaids also having their bouquets be special. Take the lead from one of our brides who wanted to add jeweled initials to each of her bridesmaids’ bouquets!

Photo Credit, www.ninephotography.com

Photo Credit, www.tracyautem.com

Photo Credit, www.lynnmichelle.com

Personal touches are not only unique, they are meaningful. Cutting of a strip of your mom’s dress and using it for the ribbon can be a constant reminder of where you’ve come from. Other brides choose to use a piece of jewelry or a loved one’s handkerchief and attach them to the stems. These accessories may not draw as much attention as rhinestones, but they will add to the specialness of your bouquet.

Photo Credit, www.daisyphotostudio.com

Most brides choose to carry real flowers down the aisle- but adding in elements that are not necessarily ‘flowers’ creates dimension and could be the difference from having a boring bouquet to having an exquisite bouquet. Think of dried pods, wheat, sparkle sticks, or feathers if you want to do something different and unique.

Photo Credit, Tami Winn Events

The most important tip we can leave you with is to know what kind of statement you want to make, if any. Trust your florist- they usually know the best way to achieve whatever look you are going for!

Sara and Jef's November Wedding

2010-02-16T23:14:00.000-06:00

It’s always hard to lose a good employee, but it is so nice to see that they are doing well. In November, we did the flowers for Sara and Jef Yarbrough's wedding reception at the Belo Mansion in downtown Dallas. The coordinator was none other than Jennifer Bergman, who was Tami's assistant for over two years. Jennifer is no longer in the special event industry, but she knows Sara through mutual friends, and agreed to help her plan her wedding. She did a fantastic job and it makes Tami so proud to see her on top of her game!

Sara and her husband Jef had their ceremony in Hawaii in early November. They celebrated with friends and family on November 20th in the Belo Pavilion. Sara’s colors were purple with fall accents. Half of her centerpieces were large florals on 28” cylinder vases with candles surrounding the base. The other half were low bowls nestled in a wreath of colorful flowers with floating candles in the bowl. LeFleur Couture used a combination of roses, stock, belles of Ireland, kermit poms, snapdragons, spray roses and daisy poms to create Sara's fall fantasy.

Creating an intimate, trendy atmosphere was on of Sara's musts for her reception. With lighting provided by the always wonderful Ryan Kelley and Lite Dallas, the room looked absolutely magical. A special thanks to Jennifer at Lite Dallas for her amazing help as well!

Because most of their guests did not make it to Sara and Jef's ceremony in Hawaii, they played a video of their nuptuals before their grand entrance. DJ Andy Austin helped make the guests feel like they were truly a part of their special day and gave them an unforgetable party.

Thank you to photographer Julie Birdseye for all these stunning photos.

'Tablescapes and Trends' at City Club Fort Worth.

2010-02-16T13:17:00.000-06:00

Come see Tami Winn Events and leFleur Couture at City Club Fort Worth's annual Tablescapes and Trends! On Thursday, February 25, 2010, City Club Fort Worth will be hosting this complimentary event from 6:30-9:30pm. Any and all couples are welcome to come, but please be sure to rsvp for attendance.

This event is for brides to see first hand the latest trends in wedding decor and design. They will also get a chance to mingle with different vendors and taste City Club's fabulous catering. In City Club's Oak Room brides can scope out tablescapes from an array of Dallas/Fort Worth's wedding vendors.

In the ballroom, Tami Winn will create a wedding reception showcasing today's current trends. Brides and their guests can view numerous seating and decor arrangements, all in a hip and trendy theme.

RSVP is required for attendance. Please respond by emailing weddings@cityclubfw.com or calling (817) 878-4051. Tami and her staff would love to see you there!

You’ve Got Your Fiance, Now Get Your Groom!

2010-02-15T10:45:00.000-06:00

Society, (and many men), thinks that a boyfriend’s only role in a wedding is done before planning even begins. All he has to do is ask that question and he’s free! Sadly, in many cases, this is a true story. Fiances are often completely absent from the planning process, whether from lack of interest, or from the level of control of the bride. But many girls find themselves overwhelmed with the myriad of appointments, details and decisions, and simply want some help. Brides usually want their fiance's opinion over the intricacies of planning a wedding, they just don’t know how to get involved.

Photo Credit: Ben Godkin Photo

There are several ways to make sure your future husband is included in the biggest day of your lives, other than waiting at the alter. When you are ready to get serious about planning your wedding, sit down alone with your fiancé and have a discussion over the theme, style and major important points of the wedding. And listen rather than tell him what your visions are. Letting him voice his opinion and taking a genuine interest in what he has to say will allow him to be more respectful of you when you stand firm on certain issues.

Instead of consulting him on every issue, or feeling like you need his approval for every decision, give him a few easy tasks. Most guys are concerned about the music and the food. Have him search out several bands or djs in your style and price range and go to the meetings together. Invite him to the food tastings and don’t make fun of him if he wants a nacho bar at your black tie affair. Having personal touches will make your wedding more intimate, and your guests will love having parts of your personalities inserted into your wedding.

Photo credit: Kevin Jairaj, KJ Images

If you as a couple are paying for the wedding yourselves, you need to be extra sensitive when soliciting his opinion. Going crazy and not consulting him about anything will only cause resentment and frustration, two things you do not want anywhere near your wedding day.

The most important lesson to remember as you are planning your wedding is to allow your fiancé to be more involved if he wants to be. If he makes the effort to be a part of this process, show that you are glad he cares and take him up on his offer to help.

Sometimes, the road to marriage can be long and full of difficult obstacles. Why choose the same path for planning your wedding? You are only human, and you can only do so much. Ask for help when you need it. Don’t be afraid to give your fiancé responsibilities or to lean on him for support. You will face much more trying times together, and what a better way of testing him out?

Photo credit: Kevin Jairaj, KJ Images

Lifting the Veil on Tradition: The History of the Bridal Veil

2010-02-08T11:08:00.000-06:00

What does your wedding wardrobe include? Wedding dress..check. Shoes..check. Bouquet…check. Veil…errrr…check?? If you went through that list 10 years ago, there would have been no hesitation in your answer. But beyond the fashion of wedding gowns changing immensely in the past decade, so has that of the bridal veil.

The wedding veil can be traced back to Ancient Greece. Over the next 2 millennia, wedding veils have changed shape and stories more times than you can keep track of.

Historians have many accounts of the origin and meaning of the wedding veil. One account is the wedding veil symbolized modesty and purity. Others state that it kept evil spirits away until the bride was officially under the protection of her husband. The most humorous origin of the bridal veil is that of arranged marriages. Parents arranging their offspring’s marriages were so common that the bridal veil was necessary to protect that agreement. Sometimes the groom would not ever meet his intended until the wedding day. And in case beauty was not a favorable attribute of the bride, the wedding veil was necessary to keep the groom from seeing her face and calling off the arrangement.

photo credit: bellzandwhistlesblog.com

Throughout these many changes, the style and color of the veil also changed. Many had Arab influences and consisted of ornate beading and jewels. But as the wedding veil evolved, one thing always stayed the same: its connection with virginity. In modern fashion, that is why the bridal veil is white like the bridal gown. And as all fashion changes based on current trends, so does the bridal veil. It’s been lace, tulle, netting, sheer chiffon fabric and a plethora of other designs, colors and textures.

Photo Credit: weddingchicks.com

Photo Credit: meetupstatic.com

In 2010, the bridal veil is the most diverse it has ever been. Many brides choose to stay traditional, even wearing their mother’s or grandmother’s veils. Now that veils are considered only an accessory and not a necessity, veils are often taken off after the ceremony to free up the movement of the bride at the reception.

Some bride’s choose not to wear a veil at all- and can substitute a headpiece, flowers, feathers or gem hairpins instead.

Photo Credit: celebrityhairstyles.com

Photo credit: romance-fire.com

Photo credit: static.squidoo.com

Photo Credit: unveiledbridaldesign.com

The length of a veil is also a bride’s personal choice. From Princess Diana’s 25 foot train to blushers that hit just below the chin, brides choose their veil according to ceremony site, occasion and style of the dress.

Photo Credit: weddingtipster.wordpress.com

The most important thing to remember about choosing a veil is to make sure you feel comfortable with your choice. Your selection should highlight your personal style. Make sure you try out several selections of veils or head accessories before you settle on one. You should feel the best you have ever felt on the day of your wedding- and do not feel the need to hide your face behind a veil of obscurity.

10 Trends for 2010!

2010-01-27T13:05:00.000-06:00

Now that 2010 is in full swing, everyone is chiming in on what will be the biggest wedding trends this year. At Tami Winn Events and leFleur Couture, we have our own take on some of the most popular trends at the start of the new decade.

1. Home Weddings

Weddings can be a big budget production and oftentimes can get so extravagant, guests feel like they are at an exhibition rather than a celebration. A great solution to both problems is to plan a wedding at home. The intimate space allows for the guests to feel more like a part of your day than a spectator at an event. Having your wedding at home also gives you more control over the details, so you can keep things elegant and simple.

2. Attention to Detail- Simplify!

Grand galas are no longer the rage- simple soirees are now a re-occurring trend in the DFW wedding scene. Clean lines, sharp decor and simple productions help create an intimate feel for your guests. Bigger is not always better. Keeping things simple allows you to not only spend the money where it really counts, but it also helps keep costs to a minimum. And as long as your guests enjoy themselves, no one is going to complain that you did not have a Cirque de Soleil performance at your reception!

3. Birdcage Veils

This wedding trend is hot hot hot! Unconventional veils are being seen all over, but the most popular accessory is the birdcage veil. These veils can be attached in a myriad of ways- headpieces, clips, hats or they can just stand alone. Many brides choose to add flowers, feathers or jewelry clips to their coiffure. These elements only add to the drama a birdcage veil can give a bride on her big day.

Photo credit: Stephanie Williams, ruffledblog.com

Photo credit: PerfectWeddingGuide.com

Photo credit: Kevin Jairaj, KJ Images

4. Vintage Visions in Videography

Vintage is coming back in more places than the runway. Wedding fashion is dripping with vintage details. An unorthodox way to incorporate it into your wedding is in the videography. Photo montages have become a regular element in wedding receptions. However, they tend to all look the same. A way to entertain your guests more is to have a videographer or editor take still and live footage from you and your fiance's lives and turn it into an old time looking video. The musts of this film are for it to be in black and white or have a faded color treatment. It needs to be grainy and could be mostly silent. Many videographers are able to shoot on an actual 8mm camera (also called super 8). Any music tracks should be to classic artists like Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin and Ella Fitzgerald. This will be an experience your guests will treasure forever and you will get to enjoy the video for years to come.

Click on these links to view a variety of vintage videos:

http://www.wellspunweddings.com/Wedding_Films.htm

http://www.joesimonproductions.com/Vintage_shannonjasonhighlights.htm

5. You have friends, not twins

Your friends cringe when they hear you are engaged, secretly hoping they won't get asked to be in your wedding for fear of having to buy and wear a hideous bridesmaids dress that will be shoved in the back of their closet when the wedding is over. And it doesn't matter if you choose a current style or a flattering color, women hate wearing the same thing as someone else. If you've ever been a bridesmaid, you know. Why not make your friends happy and have them stand out a bit by allowing them to wear different dresses? You can always set very specific guidelines such as length, color, fabric, etc. This also helps with their budget and allows them to purhcase a dress they can afford and possibly even wear again. Then you can pair each individual dress with the same accessories if you wish.

Photo credit: SugarLove Weddings, polkadotbride.com

Photo credit: lumiereimaging.com

Photo Credit: Kevin Jairaj, KJ Images

6. Brighten Your Big Day

Bold, bright hues are back this spring where oranges, apple greens, hot pinks and turquoise are the tip of the iceberg when it comes to colors that will brighten your day. But instead of hosing down your entire wedding with a color, choose a selective group of very important details to add the color. Shoes, sashes and flowers are a great way to add a pop of color - but get creative! Chinese lanterns, parasols and ribbon wads are a unique way to bring in your wedding color without overwhelming your guests.

Photo credit: WeddingPaperDivas.com

Photo credit: Helmut Walker Photography

Photo credit: projectwedding.com

7. Skirting Around the Issue

The bridal gown is usually the most important element of the wedding. It sets the tone and style for every other detail. Each year depicts a new direction for bridal gowns. In 2010, we are seeing a flood of vintage inspired dresses as well as higher hemlines and tiered skirts. It is important not to do all of these trends at once and to do whatever fits your style and body type. Tea-length dresses and fun ruffles on the skirting keep the style of your wedding fun and flirtatious. They also make sure you are at the peak of wedding fashion.

Photo credit: Stephanie DeSaga

Photo credit: poshgirlvintage.com

Photo credit: Paris by Night

Photo Credit:Melissa Sweet, marthastewart.com

Photo credit: bridalguide.com

Photo Credit: Valentino- Bergdorf Goodman

Photo credit: fitnessmagazine.com

Photo credit: Carolina Herrera

8. Adorn Yourself With Unusual Jewels

Diamonds and pearls are a thing of the past! The new decade brings with it an abundance of new jewelry trends. Large, ornate, colorful statement pieces are being seen all over the runways. And the color or stone does not have to be one of your wedding colors. Try jewelry in a complimentary shade to add depth to your color palette and to make you stand out even more!

Photo Credit: beavaldes.com

Photo credit: stylehive.com

Photo credit: www.stylehive.com

Photo credit: bostom.com

Photo credit: stylehive.com

9. No favors, por favor!

How often do you see half-eaten or un-opened bags of candy left on reception tables? What's the point in putting in the time and effort of purchasing and preparing favors if your guests are not even going to take them? Why not consider doing a photobooth or flip books instead? Having no table favors saves you unnecessary time and expenses. And guess what? Your guests will never even notice.

10. Tuxedos- James Bond Bow-Ties

Until recently, the traditional bow-tie tuxedo was considered old fashioned and dated. But with the re-emergence of the sexy spy James Bond, these classic suits are becoming more common. However, they need not be solely for black tie affairs. You can still incorporate a bow-tie tuxedo into a more casual wedding. By pairing the suit with fun shoes like black Chuck Taylors, you keep the formality of the tux at a minimum. If that's too informal for your style, keep everything else simple, from the style of the bridesmaids dresses to the bouquets, and the tuxedo's classic silhouette will fall perfectly in sync.

Photo credit: sandydumont.com

Traditional Black and White Wedding

2010-01-22T13:46:00.000-06:00

We were lucky to work with an amazing bride Stephanie on her traditional style wedding. She also had some fun vintage touches that added a bit of 'bling' to the decor. Stephanie carried a beautiful hand tied bouquet of all white roses. The ribbon on her bouquet was adorned with an old cameo that belonged to her mother. The ceremony took place on the terrace at the historic Melrose Hotel and then the reception followed in their amazing ballroom. Stephanie selected traditional centerpieces of all white hydrangea, roses, and lilies. The look was completed with a black ribbon band around the center of the vase and a crystal buckle. The cakes were done by the one and only Chad Fitzgerald of The Cake Guys and they fit perfectly with the theme.

The photos below were done by Stephanie's fabulous photographer, Lynn Michelle Photography. She is always exciting to work with and is very talented!

Our Great New Postcard Design!

2009-11-20T10:50:00.000-06:00

Front Side Back Side

New Name ~ Same Spirit

2009-10-20T22:36:00.000-05:00

I am thrilled to inform you of the HUGE changes taking place with the company. Effective October 18th, we will no longer be using the A Magic Moment name. We will now be represented in two ways. Tami Winn Events will be our event planning company and leFleur Couture will be our floral and decor company.
We are also moving our office location during this transition. The new address & phone number are below and will be used starting November 1st. Please be sure to also note our new email addresses and websites. Be patient with us during this move!
Tami Winn EventsleFleur Couture
2572 Gravel Drive
Fort Worth, Texas 76118
817-589-2393
http://www.tamiwinn.com
http://www.lefleurcouture.com
info@tamiwinn.com
info@lefleurcouture.com
I would also like to introduce Jamie Lemke, our newest event planner. She started in June and came to use with a wealth of knowledge. Jamie will be the lead planner for Tami Winn Events and is available for wedding or social planning. In August we added 7 new members to our production team for design and installation. The head floral designer, Cindy Wood, has been with me since long before I even started the company. Her designs are breathtaking and her spirit and genuine personality make her a huge asset to our team.
Many thanks to those of you who have helped me get here. The last seven years have been amazing and I could never thank you enough!
Cheers!
Tami Winn