Exquisite Affairs

Reflecting on 2009

2009-12-31T22:07:00.000-08:00

As we say goodbye to 2009, I have been reflecting on the past year. 2009 had its ups and downs but we survived. The economy was bad, businesses closed and people lost their homes. I am grateful for the wonderful people that I have met over the year and have built friendships with. I am happy to have had some of the best clients a wedding planner could have and to be apart of their special day. I am looking forward to 2010 and all the great clients and opportunities it will bring. I am looking forward to the new direction that the company will be going in.

To all of our clients....thank you for allowing us to be apart of one of the most important days of your life. To the great wedding planners that I have met...thank you for the support and for all that you do in this industry. To my friends and family...thank you for your support, encouragement and love. Without you I would not have made it through the year. To the best assistant/friend I could have....thank you for all that you do.

Have a Happy New Year. We look forward to seeing you in 2010!!!

Kourtney Kardashian Welcomes Baby Boy

2009-12-15T07:15:00.000-08:00

Kourtney Kardashian and boyfriend, Scott Dimisk welcomed a baby boy to the family. Kourtney delivered Mason Dash Disick on Monday morning at Cedars-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles. Mason weighed 7 lbs., 6 oz., and 19.5 inches. This is the first child for Kourtney and Scott.

Laura Hooper is spreading holiday cheer

2009-12-11T14:02:00.000-08:00

Laura Hooper Calligraphy is spreading holiday cheer by offering discounts off of her totes, bifold and trifold invitations, and custom compasses. Take advantage of these great discounts for your wedding.

Hank & Kendra Welcomes Baby Boy!!

2009-12-11T07:44:00.000-08:00

Hank Baskett and his wife former playmate, Kendra Wilkinson welcomes a baby boy. Hank Baskett IV was born at 12:37 am today in Indianapolis. Hank IV weighed in at 9 pounds, 5 ounces. The couple released a statement to OK magazine, reads, "We are all healthy and incredibly happy and can’t wait to spend every moment with little Hank."

Congratulations Hank and Kendra!!

Thanksgiving Dessert Buffet

2009-11-25T22:14:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving is tomorrow. For my family thanksgiving is a time for reflecting on the past year, gathering with family and friends and being thankful. I was reading one of my favorite blogs, Amy Atlas and found her Thanksgiving Dessert Buffet. Amy’s Thanksgiving Dessert Buffet really got me in the mood for thanksgiving, so I wanted to share. Wishing each of you a very safe and Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Turkey Brownie

Turkey Cookies

Pilgrim Hat Cupcakes

Scarecrow and Apple Basket Cookies

Burnt Butter Pumpkin Pound Cake

Caramel & Sugared Pears

Acorn Cookies

Apple Cider with Cinnamon Sticks

Marshmallow Sweet Potato Pie

Source: Amy Atlas

Goodbye InStyle Weddings Magazine

2009-11-24T22:00:00.001-08:00

The wedding industry has lost another great magazine. Time, Inc. has decided to close the InStyle Weddings magazine due to the economy. The last issue will be December 25 and will remain on sale until March 5.

Thanksgiving Cocktails

2009-11-23T22:17:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving is in three days. Here are a few cocktails that you can add to your menu and impress your guests with your bartending skills. Even the non-drinkers will be impressed by your skill and originality.

Pumpkin Pie

1 part kahlua
1 part spiced pumpkin pie filling
2 parts coconut rum
4 parts cold milk
6 ice cubes
Garnish with cinnamon

Put everything but the cinnamon in a blender. Mix on high. Serve in graham cracker crust highball glasses and sprinkle the top with cinnamon.

Smashing Pumpkin Spice

1 part Goldschlager
1 part Irish Crème
1 part Kahlua
Cinnamon candies
Sprinkle pumpkin pie spice

Drop 3-4 cinnamon candies in the bottom of a martini glass. Mix the Goldschlager, Irish Crème, and Kahlua in a martini shaker with ice. Strain into a martini glass and sprinkle pumpkin pie spice on top.

Gingersnap

½ part ginger brandy
1 part spiced rum
4 parts eggnog
Crumbled gingersnaps

Put your gingersnaps in a blender and grind until you have cookie crumbs. Use the cookies to rim highball glasses. Mix the eggnog, rum, and brandy in your glasses. Serve with an intact gingersnap for dunking.

Royal Cider Grog

6 parts apple cider
1 part Crown Royal
Cinnamon sticks

Warm the apple cider in a mug. Top it with the Crown Royal and stir with a cinnamon stick.

Malibu Baked Apple

2 parts coconut rum
2 parts cranberry juice
3 parts apple juice
Dried apple rings

Mix all 3 in a microwave safe glass and heat until toasty warm. Garnish with a dried apple ring.

Rock Gobbler

1 part Wild Turkey
2 parts Cranberry Juice
2 parts Chambord
2 parts Amaretto

Mix everything in a cocktail shaker full of ice then strain into a highball glass. Garnish with a wedge of lime.

Caramel Apple Martini

1 part vodka
2 parts sour apple liquor
2 parts butterscotch liquor
Caramel candy

Drop a small caramel candy into a martini glass. Mix everything else in a cocktail shaker full of ice then strain into the martini glass.

Turkey Shooter

3 parts Wild Turkey
1 part crème de methe

Chill both ingredients. Pour the Wild Turkey into a brandy snifter then carefully float the crème de methe on top. The whiskey will warm you up while the mint flavor keeps you cool.

Turkey Trot

1 part bourbon
2 parts 7-Up
2 parts cranberry juice

Mix everything in a highball glass and drink on the rocks.

Butterball

1 part amaretto
1 part butterscotch schnapps
Whipped cream

Pour amaretto into a shot glass and layer the schnapps on top. Top with a dash of whipped cream. Throw it back as a single shot.

Source: FoodVu

Travel in Style with Barbie & Christian Louboutin

2009-11-02T23:09:00.001-08:00

Christian Louboutin is taking Barbie on a fashion filled journey to his favorite places and private homes. Barbie has entered into a multifaceted business deal with Christian Louboutin. The deal includes

Louboutin made a hot pink Barbie shoe for women
Louboutin will customize a Barbie doll and accessories collection
Louboutin helped Mattel create a 12 month “diary filled with photos of Louboutin and Barbie as they explore Louboutin’s favorite things”
Louboutin will be Barbie’s “godfather” for a year

Loubotin customized Barbie by reshaping her figure and making her ankles and feet smaller.

The three dolls, packaged in Louboutin shoe boxes, each come with four pairs of Barbie-size Louboutin heels. In December, Mattel will unveil Louboutin’s jewel thief-themed Barbie; in February, it will add a safari-themed Barbie, and for May, Louboutin designed a Barbie that goes to the Cannes Film Festival. The jewel thief Barbie is wearing a black catsuit with hood, headband and Christina Louboutin gold sandals. The doll comes with four pairs of Barbie shoes by Christian Louboutin, each with the signature red sole, mini shoe boxes and clothes bags.

Only the first doll (the jewel thief Barbie) in the series comes with the Barbie by Christian Louboutin calendar/diary and certificate of authenticity. The diary is also sold separately for $40, is titled “My Year in Paris With Christian Louboutin.” Launching in December, it features photos of the doll shopping with Louboutin in his boutique, on a journey down the Nile, performing at the Moulin Rouge and in a cafe with a male doll that is decidedly not Ken. Only 2,400 Barbie by Christian Louboutin will be available and will be sold at $150.00 through the Barbie Collector. The are 7,700 products worldwide. Barbie Collector will also offer the Christian Louboutin Barbie shoe collection (12 pairs) for $40.

I’m here

2009-11-02T22:27:00.001-08:00

It’s been a long time since I have posted on the blog. I have been very busy with events, family, working on new projects and preparing for the upcoming year. During my time away from the blog, I have been writing about different topics/ideas. Over the next few weeks I will post all of the things that I have been writing about and gathering information on.

Ciao Bella Modern Bride & Elegant Bride

2009-10-05T19:30:00.001-07:00

The wedding industry lost two great magazines today. Magazine Publisher Conde Nast has announced the closing of Modern Bride and Elegant Bride. Brides will increase to a monthly edition.

Essence Atkins Says I Do

2009-09-30T21:37:00.001-07:00

On Saturday, September 26, 2009 Essence Atkins of Half & Half married Jamie Mendez in Pasadena, California at the beautiful Ambassador Mansion & Gardens. Essence met Jamie through Match.com on valentine’s day last year. The bride wore a Stephen Yearnick Dress for the ceremony and an Angela Rivera (Jamie’s cousin) dress for the reception. Essence walked down the aisle by herself and the couple opted not to have a bridal party.

The menu was prepared by G. Garvin, which included Puerto Rican and traditional soul food such as macaroni & cheese, roasted pork, peach cobbler, plaintains, red velvet cupcakes, and arroz con dulce.

The guests received match books and travel size candles. The single guests were given a six month membership to Match.com.

Source: People, Essence

Tuesday's Thoughts

2009-09-29T08:00:00.000-07:00

An ideal wife is any woman who has an ideal husband.

~Booth Tarkington

Tuesday's Thoughts

2009-09-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

Marriage is that relation between man and woman in which the independence is equal, the dependence mutual, and the obligation reciprocal.

~Louis K. Anspacher

Tuesday's Thoughts

2009-09-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person.

~Mignon McLaughlin

Happy Hour Friday

2009-09-11T09:42:00.000-07:00

Almond Joy & Milky Way Martinis

Almond Joy Martini

1 oz. Three Olives chocolate vodka

1 oz. Frangelica

1 oz. coconut rum

Shake together while chilling and pour.

Milky Way Martini

1 1/2 oz. Starbucks Cream Liqueur

1 oz. Three Olives chocolate vodka

1/2 oz. cream

Shake together while chilling and pour.

Source: Fine Living

Tuesday's Thoughts

2009-09-08T15:36:00.001-07:00

A good marriage is one which allows for change and growth in the individuals and in the way they express their love.

~ Pearl S. Buck

Best R &B Songs for a Wedding

2009-09-04T00:11:00.001-07:00

On Tuesday Elegala published a list of the Best R&B Weddings Songs. Many of the songs can be used at the ceremony and/or reception.

Never - Jaheim

Forever My Lady - Jodeci

Sweet Love - Anita Baker

Caught Up in the Rapture - Anita Baker

Spend My Life with You - Eric Benet & Tamia

Nice and Slow - Usher

You Got It Bad - Usher

Ribbon in the Sky - Stevie Wonder

You Mean the World to Me - Toni Braxton

Always and Forever - Heat Wave

On Bended Knee - Boyz II Men

Never Let Go - Faith Evans

Angel of Mine - Monica

For You I Will - Monica

The Sweetest Thing - Lauren Hill

No Ordinary Love - Sade

You - Jesse Powell

The Cool in You - Babyface

By Your Side - Sade

I Swear - All-4-One

Make it Last Forever - Keith Sweat

Here and Now - Luther Vandross

Every Beat of My Heart - Brian McKnight

Back at One - Brian McKnight

Saved the Best for Last - Vanessa Williams

Crazy Love - Aaron Neville

All My Life - K-Ci and Jojo

Suddenly - Billy Ocean

Three Times a Lady - The Commodores

No One - Alicia Keys

Hello - Lionel Richie

Saving All My Love for You - Whitney Houston

Everything - Mary J. Blige

Family Affair - Mary J. Blige

Wordless Wednesday – Wedding Cakes

2009-09-02T21:46:00.001-07:00

Source: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

Tuesday’s Thoughts

2009-09-01T22:03:00.001-07:00

All married couples should learn the art of battle as they should learn the art of making love. Good battle is objective and honest--never vicious or cruel. Good battle is healthy and constructive, and brings to a marriage the principle of equal partnership.

Ann Landers Says Truth Is Stranger..., 1968

Freestyle Friday – Shoe Fetish

2009-08-28T08:00:00.000-07:00

Charles David

Donna Karan

Giuseppe Zanotti

Totally Chocolate

2009-08-27T21:49:00.001-07:00

Are you looking for something unique for your wedding? Do you love chocolate? Totally Chocolate has created a menu and favor all in one. The menu bars are made of milk or dark chocolate and come in four sizes (4x6, 1/2 lb bar, 1lb bar and a 2lb bar).

Bedazzle My Bonbon

2009-08-25T23:11:00.001-07:00

One bonbon as a cute favor

6 piece bonbon favor box

Dazzle Pops

Color Chart

Bedazzle My Bonbons has combined chocolate and glitter to make a fantastic favor. The glitter is made of sanding sugar and cake colorings. The bonbons are made from a custom blend of Swiss and Belgium chocolate and hand dipped in edible dust of glitter and cocoa powder. The outer shell looks like a foil wrapper but its actually edible. The bonbons are packaged in boxes with hand applied Swarovski Crystals around the corners and come in 124 colors which include absolutely amethyst, flirtatious fuchsia, sensational sapphire, awesome aqua, outrageous orange, precious pink, radiant red, magnificent magenta, mesmerizing merigold, bewitching black and radiant red harlequin.

If you have children at your event or giving a children’s party give away the Dazzle Pops. Dazzle Pops are hard candy lollipops that sparkle. The pops come in tutti frutti flavor.

Wedding Scammers

2009-08-24T20:51:00.001-07:00

Wedding Planners receive numerous emails from individuals scamming for wedding planner services. The emails general start the same way and they are always from Nigeria or the United Kingdom. Yesterday, Terrica Skaggs of Fabu-luxe wrote the most amazing post in response to these scammers titled “An Open Service Proposal for Scammers.” If you are a wedding planner, please read Terrica’s post.

Thank you Terrica for the great post on behalf of all wedding planners.

Happy Hour Friday

2009-08-14T20:57:00.001-07:00

Texas Twister

Ingredients:

2-1/2 to 3 oz. high-quality tequila
1-1/2 oz. Grand Marnier
1-1/2 to 2 oz. fresh lime juice
1/4 pint frozen limeade
Splash of Corona (or your favorite Mexican beer)
Splash of your favorite red wine such as Zinfandel
2 cups crushed ice

Preparation:

Blend all ingredients with ice in blender until smooth. Pour into a chilled margarita glass. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Yield: Two drinks

Source: Fine Living

Fab Find – Crystal Piggy Bank

2009-08-13T22:41:00.001-07:00

This beautiful Crystal Piggy Bank can be found at Z Gallerie. Crystal Piggy Bank measures 3”x3.25”x2” and retails for $29.95. The bank would be a perfect gift for a flower girl or any special little girl in your life.

Jennifer Hudson Welcomes Baby Boy!!!!

2009-08-11T10:40:00.001-07:00

It’s official! Oscar winner and “American Idol” star Jennifer Hudson gave birth to a baby boy late yesterday. His name is David Daniel Otunga, Jr., named for his father and Hudson’s fiance.
Jennifer and David Sr. decided not to find out the sex of the baby until he was born. Their son weighed in at 7 pounds, 14 ounces.

Congratulations Jennifer and David Sr. on your bundle of joy.

Amy Atlas Dessert Table

2009-08-11T08:00:00.000-07:00

I am a huge fan of Amy Atlas so I am always checking her website and blog to see her latest creation. Yesterday, I found Amy’s “Poolside Dessert Table in the Hamptons.”

Amy designed the dessert table for a birthday party for her client’s son, Scott and sister, Ellen. The color scheme was green apple and taupe. According to Amy “the apple green and taupe color scheme was inspired by the linens and placemats that the client was using for her dinner table. For all of Scott's details on the dessert table, the main color was taupe. For all of Ellen's details, the main color was apple green.”

This color scheme could also be used for a wedding. Check out Amy’s website and blog for more of her dessert table designs.

Straptinis

2009-08-10T22:13:00.001-07:00

Strapteaze has designed the latest bra accessory, Straptinis. Straptinis are designer bra straps that can be worn with casual shirts, strapless dresses or asymmetrical necklines. Straptinis are glass and metal beads strung on an elastic line that attach to strapless or convertible bras. For special occasions try the “on the Rocks” line which is decorated with Swarovski Crystal accents.

Hello Kitty 35th Anniversary

2009-08-07T08:00:00.000-07:00

This post is dedicated to my friend Shontay, who is a hello kitty fanatic.

Hello Kitty has entered their 35th anniversary. To celebrate, CASIO launched an exclusive CASIO Z2 X Hello Kitty dreamy pink limited edition design, not only on the camera shell but in the overall appearance. Pink with Swarovski diamond dotted outer lens and body decorations and impeccable design is perfect for all girls! Great photos can last for generations, and the EX-Z2 can help you capture them. A 12.1 effective Megapixel camera with 3X optical zoom, and two color options, the EX-Z2 combines advanced technology with advanced style. Its sleek and compact design means you can get be ready to shoot great moments any time.

Invitation Giveaway by TGK

2009-08-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

The Green Kangaroo (“TGK”) is giving one winner 100 Frugal Floral Decor Wedding Invitations (or $295 credit towards a different purchase). To qualify, all you need to do is register for an account. The winner will be notified on September 1, 2009.

Paperie Wednesday - Wedding Paper Divas

2009-08-05T08:15:00.000-07:00

Wedding Paper Divas was started by three friends who have a love for high quality stationery. Wedding Paper Divas is located in the Silicon Valley and offers wedding invitations, save the date, bridal shower invitations, party invitations, thank you cards, menus, programs, place cards, stationery and favors.

Wedding Guests Gripes

2009-08-04T08:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday on twitter, Andria Lewis of Andria Lewis Events shared an article posted on MSN titled “Wedding Guests’ Secret Gripes.” The article outlined several things that take place at weddings that can turn wedding guests off. I’ve posted the article below. The fifth and last gripe are the ones that most people especially wedding planners hear about. While you are planning your wedding, please think about your guests and these complaints.

You've been to a few weddings yourself, so you know there are just some things that can rub you the wrong way. Here are a few helpful reminders about what guests can't stand.

You may think your wedding is all about you and your groom (or maybe just you) but, hello, you're hosting a party! If your guests are miserable, your wedding will be remembered for all the wrong reasons. So we talked to dozens of frequent wedding guests — from always-a-bridesmaids to recent brides to guys in their 20s and 30s — to find out what they hated about the events they've attended. We've kept the guests' names secret just in case they're coming to your wedding!

Your Timing Stinks
Huge time gaps between the ceremony and the reception — the ones where the ceremony starts at noon, but the party isn't until 7 p.m. — are annoying because you're often leaving us in the middle of nowhere with absolutely nothing to do. We don't want to kill time at a restaurant because we're hoping you'll feed us well at your reception. And there's only so much lingering we can do at a coffee shop or a bookstore ... in our dressy clothes! We'd much rather head straight to the party after the "I dos."

You Picked a Bad Day
We've had weddings on every holiday, from Mother's Day to Super Bowl Sunday (yes, that counts as a holiday). You must realize that we'd rather be with our moms or watching the game instead of going to your wedding on those days. And please don't ruin our holiday weekends. We get it; you can save a bundle if you get hitched on the Sunday before Memorial Day, but maybe we'd like to take our vacations then. If nothing else, please don't get married on some random Tuesday night. That means we have to take off two days from work just to go! Let us use our vacation days for vacations.

You're Boring Us
The ceremony may be the most important part of the day to you, but the reception is what we're really looking forward to. When it takes forever to get dinner served, each speech is 25 minutes long, and you play a string of songs that are all inside jokes with the same group of friends, there isn't much time for getting our groove on. Uh, and if the band's so bad that no one's dancing — including you and your groom — we just think, Why are we even here? Showing us a really good time is the least that you can do to thank us for giving up our free day, traveling, and getting you an expensive gift.

The Food Isn't Great
Why would you bother spending thousands on your flowers if your food is going to taste terrible? We want a delicious meal way more than we want pretty centerpieces. You don't know this, but we actually think of that $200 gift as a contribution to a great meal. If it's not as good as something we'd have at a restaurant, we're going to be disappointed. Even if the food is tasty, don't make us go hungry. We don't need an eight-course meal, but we don't want to have to push through other guests just to get to the tiny hors d'oeuvres you're calling dinner.

You Make Us Pay?!
Treat your guests like guests; don't make us bring our wallets whenever we want a drink! When you have more than 300 guests and a cash bar, we wish that you would've just cut the list and paid for our drinks instead. How exactly are we supposed to feel when we paid for flights, a rental car, a hotel room, and a gift, and then you make us pay at the bar? So not cool.

You Sat Us Here
We want to have fun at your wedding, believe us, but it's pretty tricky when you seat us right in front of giant speakers. We won't be able to talk to anyone at our tables or enjoy our dinner if you're blowing out our eardrums. Before you book your venue, make sure there's enough space for tables without having to make us sit in the DJ's lap. And don't make us suffer in the heat. If you're having a summer wedding, do it somewhere with air conditioning!

Also, if you want to be outdoors, don't make us rough it: Walking around in the mud, swatting bugs, or using porta-potties is even less fun in formal attire. And please give us plenty of places to sit. Cocktail hours are great, but it's pretty tough to balance our plates, drinks, and purses while standing — in heels no less!

You Don't Invite a Plus-One
Nothing reminds us of our dating status like a wedding. No need to rub it in our faces with even more reminders. The garter and bouquet tosses are like saying, "Hey, look at them. They're single!" Could you blame us if we hide in the bathroom as soon as the DJ announces it? And, come on, even if they did honestly predict we'd be the next to marry, do we really want some cheesy guy slipping garters up our legs? Of course, we'd prefer to be invited with a date, but we get why you may not be able to give us that, especially if we'll know lots of other people there. But if everyone we know is making out with their significant other all night, we're going to be pissed that you couldn't include one extra person to make us feel a little more comfortable.

You Put Us to Work
We know we'll have to help out with some tasks when we agree to be in the bridal party, but it's insulting when you consider a task like manning the guest book table an honor. We'd rather just be a regular guest at the wedding than have some silly duty like that. At the very least, give us a heads up if you'll need our help. Don't spring flower girl babysitting duties on us minutes before the reception.

You Don't Say Thank You
It's frustrating when we fly all the way to your wedding and you don't take the time to thank us for making the trip. Even if we haven't come a long way, make an effort to thank us for coming anyway. We know it's hard to talk to every guest at the wedding, but that's why, at the very least, we better get a thank-you card from you when you get back from your honeymoon!

Mark Wahlberg Gets Married

2009-08-03T09:54:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, August 1, 2009 Mark Walhberg married Rhea Durham at Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Beverly Hills. The couple decided to have an intimate ceremony with their three children and 12 close friends. Mark wore a dark suit and Rhea wore a white strapless Marchesa dress with silver embroideryand a Neil Lane diamond and platinum cushioncut ring complemented by a diamond bracelet and earrings .

Photos Source: People, Radar Online

Wyndham Sugar Bay Resort & Spa

2009-07-27T22:50:00.001-07:00

Wyndham Sugar Bay Resort & Spa is one of the premiere resorts at St. Thomas, Virgin Islands. Wyndham Sugar Bay Spa won “Best Spa” in the Virgin Islands for three consecutive years. The resort offers its own secluded white sand beach with a variety of activities such as miniature golf, tennis, scuba, snorkeling, sailing, kayaking, and jet skiing. The resort also offers three wedding packages for the destination bride. Passports are not needed for U.S. citizens who can enter or exit with a valid driver's license and birth certificate.

Pamper Me Pink & the Blue Lounge

2009-07-25T11:42:00.001-07:00

TICKET

Kool Party Rentals

2009-07-23T08:00:00.000-07:00

Kool Party Rentals provides modern furniture and illuminated decor pieces that will create a scene at your next event. The illuminated decor pieces use wireless battery operated LED lights which allows your event to be lit longer, cooler and without wires. Custom products and light coloration is available. So the next time you want to enhance your event, contact Kool Party Rentals.

Paperie Wednesday – Documents and Designs

2009-07-22T20:47:00.001-07:00

Documents and Designs is owned by Terri Jamison and located in Lake George, NY. Terri offers menu cards, table numbers/names, place cards, wedding programs, save the dates, seating charts, donation cards and other stationery. Document and Designs offer several different styles and designs, which can be carried out in all of your stationery.

Fab Find – Glass Pedestal Candy Jars

2009-07-21T22:26:00.001-07:00

Move over Apothercary Jars….Introducing Glass Candy Pedestal Jars from Chef’s Catalog. These glass pedestal jars will enhance any candy, cookie or dessert bar for your event. These jars come in 5 sizes and are currently on sale. Purchase all five to achieve the look above. Set of 5 - $129.99 (regular price $209.00).

Souce: Chef’s Catalog, Apartment Therapy

Barefoot Bridal Sandals

2009-07-20T22:38:00.001-07:00

Show off your sexy feet with these barefoot sandals. Barefoot Sandals are perfect for beach or garden weddings.

Source: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

Freestyle Friday - Chocolate Shoes

2009-07-17T08:30:00.000-07:00

Gelfond Chocolates of Beverly Hills has combined by three favorite things….shoes, handbags and chocolate all into one. These chocolates are part of their Just Because collection. This would be a perfect gift for your best friend or for yourself.

St. Regis Bora Bora Resort

2009-07-14T10:00:00.001-07:00

St. Regis Bora Bora Resort was named the best luxury resort on one of the most romantic islands in the South Pacific. St. Regis Bora Bora Resort offers an oasis pool, central pool with a swim up bar, and a private salt water lagoon full of native fish and sting rays. St. Regis also offers snorkeling, jet skiing, safaris, sailing, diving, and a sunset cocktail cruise.

If you have time for a little pampering with your significant other, try the Miri Miri Spa. The Miri Miri Spa is 13,000 square feet on its own private island. The spa features Tahitian and Pacific Rim treatments.

Trunk Shows

2009-07-13T10:52:00.000-07:00

July 16-18
Pattis Bridals and Bel Air Bridals Accessories
The Dresser Online.
Call for an appt. 714-870-7101

July 17-19
Cymbeline Paris
Caprice Bridal
151 S. Maryland Avenue
Glendale, California 91205
Call for an appt. 818-240-3323

July 19
Monique Lhuillier
Bridal Sample Show & Ready to Wear
One day only! Bridal and Ready to Wear Collections from 40% to 90% off. Merchandise is “as is” and all sales are final.
1201 S. Grand Avenue, 2nd Floor
Los Angeles, California 90015

Fab Find - Tiffany Key Pendant

2009-07-09T22:37:00.000-07:00

Tiffany & Co. key pendant collection includes 18 karat gold and sterling silver pendants based upon the company's original hand carved keys that were used to unlock keepsake boxes and steamer trunks. Each one holds a "mysterious message for the key holder to know and the curious to imagine."

I love the key pendant just because theya re from Tiffany and come in the little blue box.

Paperie Wednesday –Stephanie J Designs

2009-07-08T22:55:00.001-07:00

I discovered Stephanie J Designs during the planning process of a former client. Stephanie J Designs specializes in bespoke invitations and stationary for weddings and other social occasions. The invitation designs include pocketfolds, envelopments, z fold and silk boxed invitations. Stephanie J is located in Northern California. For more information and to check out all of the invitations Stephanie J offers, click here.

Office Closed for Fourth of July Holiday.

2009-07-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

We will be closed Today, Thursday, July 2 through Monday, July 6, 2009. We will be open on Tuesday, July 7, 2009. All emails and/or phone calls will be returned on Tuesday. Have a wonderful and safe fourth of July/

Wordless Paperie Wednesday - Paper Chez

2009-07-01T08:39:00.000-07:00

Source: Paper Chez

DIY - Boarding Pass/Save the Date

2009-06-30T09:29:00.001-07:00

I discovered Aylee Designs a few years ago on the knot. Aylee Designs provides monograms and DIY Projects and templates. Aylee's boarding pass/save the date is absolutely beautiful and will catch the attention of your guests. This DIY Project is perfect for a destination wedding.

Materials (per set)

2 80lb cover stock 8.5×11

1 open-end envelope 4.125×9

1 28lb or lighter cover/cardstock (for template1 pocket) or 60lb cover/cardstock (for template2 pocket)

adhesive

Tools

cutter, ruler, scissors, perforator, scoring blade or bonefolder, computer, printer, round-corner puncher (optional)

RecommendedRotary Paper Trimmer (cutter), Fiskars Perforating Rotary Blade (perforating blade to be used with Fiskars rotary trimmer), Round Corner Punch-Small (round corner puncher), Herma Dotto (adhesive), Classic Crest Solar White 80lb (paper), Classic Crest Recycled Bright White 80lb (recycled paper), Fiskars Scoring Blade (scoring blade to be used with Fiskars rotary trimmer)

Template

Three passes can be printed on one 8.5″x11″ 80lb coverstock. Each pass is approximately 3.25″ x 8″. The left part is about 0.70″ and the right part is about 2″.

Aylee's template file has four pages. First page is the introduction. The second page has only the outline of the whole pass. You can add any content you want. Third page has some contents that she had such as those you see in the picture below. Fourth page is for the back of the passes that contain the text “NOT A VALID TRAVEL VOUCHER.” This can be changed. For the template and further instructions, click here.

Tribute - Michael Jackson RIP

2009-06-26T07:53:00.000-07:00

The world was in shock when it was announced that the "King of Pop" had died. Michael Jackson singer and exceptional performer died yesterday, June 25, 2009 at the age of 50 from cardiac arrest. He was a musical genius and creative in every aspect of his life. His career spanned over four decades. He will be missed but his music will live on.

Wedding Cakes - Pink Cake Box

2009-06-25T15:22:00.000-07:00

I am a huge Food Network fan and one of my favorite shows is the Challenge, particularly the cake challenges. One evening I was watching the Blind Date Cake Challenge and Pink Cake Box was one of the bakeries participating in this challenge. Pink Cake Box specializes in wedding cakes, celebration cakes, cupcakes and cookies. Pink Cake Box is owned by Ann Heap and is located in New Jersey. If you live in New Jersey, you are very lucky so stop by or call Pink Cake Box for your next special occasion.

Paperie Wednesday - Lucky Paperie

2009-06-24T08:35:00.000-07:00

Lucky Paperie is a custom invitation design studio owned by Melanie Carter. Lucky Paperie designs and prints letterpress and flat printed wedding and social invitations. I love that Melanie uses bright colors and classic designs on her invitations. These invitations will grab the attention of your guests.

Romona Keveza Spring 2010

2009-06-23T15:04:00.000-07:00

New York based wedding dress designer Romona Keveza recently introducted her Spring 2010 collection. The spring line had two wedding gown collections, Couture and Legends. The Couture line was what Romona called classic with a twist. The Legends line is classic yet modern.

Gifts for Dad

2009-06-20T16:55:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is father's day, if you haven't picked up a gift for your father. Here are some great ideas.

Men's Travel Kit: Perfect for the dad that loves to travel. This travel collection includes shaving cream, face wash, shampoo, hand salve, lip balm and a small bag. Retail value $36.50. Available at Kiehl's.

For the Grillin' Dad: Williams Sonoma has this great Mesh Grill Top Fry Pan for $29.95. Williams-Sonoma also offers a Grill Top Chef's Panb, Roasting Pan, Grill Rack, Smoking Rack, Grill Basket, Grill Tray, Smoking Tray and other accessories.

For the Cigar Smoker: This beautiful cedar lined humidor from Redenvelope is a great gift.

SpaWeek Honeymoon Giveaway

2009-06-18T10:10:00.000-07:00

SpaWeek.com has teamed up with WeddingChannel.com to giveaway the Ultimate Hawaiian Honeymoon. The honeymoon giveaway includes:

6 nights Oceanview Accommodations on the Fairmont Gold Floor
Five Course Romantic Dinner with a private butler served on a private lanai (balcony) or on the beach underneath towering coconut trees
Professional Make-up Application courtesy of jane iredale - THE SKIN CARE MAKEUP®
80 Min Oceanfront Couples Massage
Romantic Turndown (champagne, strawberries and petal scatter)
jane iredale - THE SKIN CARE MAKEUP® Cosmetic Gift Basket

Airfare is not include. To enter, click here.

Paperie Wednesday - ABCD Designs Bespoke

2009-06-17T15:01:00.000-07:00

ABCD Designs Bespoke is owned by Amy Beth Cupp Dragoo who is an artist and designer. Amy designs custom invitations, correspondence cards and thank you notes to fit each client's style and event. Amy has an interior design background so she is well versed in color palettes, fabrics and texture. For your next event I recommend using ABCD Designs Bespoke for all of your stationary needs, you will not be disappointed. To view more of Amy's designs, click here.

The Art of Calligraphy

2009-06-16T09:00:00.000-07:00

Calligraphy is a style of visual art and adds a personal touch that reflects the style and tone of your event.

Laura Hooper of Laura Hooper’s Calligraphy brings style and elegance to each piece that she designs. Laura provides hand drawn maps, save the dates, letterpress invitations and reception items such as table numbers and menu cards.

Check out Laura’s website and all that she offers here. You can also check out her blog here.

Top 25 Slow Jams of All Time

2009-06-15T09:00:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, Essence published a list of the Top 25 Best Slow Jams of All Time. Many of these songs are played at weddings and other special occasions. This list would make a great CD favor that your guests will enjoy and play over and over.

1. Slow Jam by Midnight Star
2. Always and Forever by Heatwave
3. Me and Mrs. Jones by Billy Paul
4. Stairway to Heaven by O’Jays
5. For the Lover in You by Shalamar
6. Cruisin’ by Smokey Robinson
7. Ribbon in the Sky by Stevie Wonder
8. House Is Not a Home by Luther Vandross
9. Sweet Thang by Chaka Khan
10. Angel by Angela Winbush
11. Adore by Prince
12. You Give Good Love by Whitney Houston
13. Sweet Love by Anita Baker
14. Hello by Lionel Richie
15. If You Only Knew by Patti LaBelle
16. Make It Last Forever by Keith Sweat
17. Forever My Lady by Jodeci
18. Sweet Lady by Tyrese
19. You Put A Move On My Heart by Tamia
20. You by Jesse Powell
21. For You by Kenny Lattimore
22. Fortunate by Maxwell
23. Seven Days by Mary J. Blige
24. Ready for Love by India Arie
25. How Does It Feel by D’Angelo

Freestyle Friday – Ring Shots

2009-06-12T12:53:00.001-07:00

Source: Weddingbee, Env Photography, F8 Studio, Mark Garber Photography, Mike Weiss Photography, and Studio Foto

Paperie Wednesday – LePenn Designs

2009-06-10T21:07:00.001-07:00

I was introduced to LePenn Designs via Twitter. LePenn Designs is the brainchild of a husband and wife team, Charles & LeTrice. This fabulous duo creates Save the Date, wedding invitations, and other wedding stationary (i.e. programs, menu cards, table numbers, etc.). Below are just a few of the gorgeous designs by LePenn Designs.

There are many passport designs out there but this is by far my favorite. It is different and unique.

Live-Laugh –Love

Rehearsal Dinner Invitation

Butterfly. Butterflies are beautiful and is my favorite insect so of course I was drawn to this design. It also incorporated one of my favorite colors.

Turks & Caicos

Ribbon Pocket

Damask Save the Date

Stargazer Lily Save the Date

To view more of LePenn Designs, click here or here.

DIY Projects

2009-06-09T22:02:00.001-07:00

I was reading one of my favorite blogs, Style Me Pretty and found several DIY Projects that inspired me. DIY Projects can save you money and can be quite fun. One of the projects that I saw was a DIY Chocolate Covered Pretzels. This project seems really simple and will impress your guests. These pretzels would be great as a wedding/party favor or part of your candy bar.

For more pictures and the instructions, click here.

Wedding Cakes – The Cake Girls

2009-06-08T20:52:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, the season premiere of Amazing Wedding Cakes aired on WE tv. The premiere featured one of my favorite bakeries, The Cake Girls. The Cake Girls bakery is owned by two sisters Mary and Brenda Maher in Chicago Illinois. To see more of the Cake Girls designs, click here.

Sweetheart Engagement Cake that was featured on premiere of Amazing Wedding Cakes

Pamper Me Pink & the Blue Lounge – Part 2

2009-06-04T22:13:00.001-07:00

In early May, I announced that we are sponsoring the Pamper Me Pink & the Blue Lounge event to benefit the Tower Cancer Research Foundation. In case you missed it, you can read it here. We have finalized the mini spa treatments with the spa. VIP guests will be able to choose two (2) mini spa treatments from the following:

Reflexology (Hands & Feet)
Neck, Shoulders & Back Massage
Hot Hands & Feet Scrub
Essential Facial (25 minutes – counts as both mini treatments)

VIP Tickets: $125
Women: includes 2 mini spa treatments, beauty treatments, access to event, silent auction, cocktails and SWAG bag.
Men: includes 2 mini spa treatments, a shave, access to event, silent auction, cocktails and a SWAG bag.

General Admission: $50 includes access to event, beauty treatments, silent auction, cocktails and SWAG bag.

The beauty treatments will include makeovers, eyebrow threading and henna tattoos. I am also happy that Amorouscents, Pop Candy, Scentsational Soaps and Victoria Duque Jewelry have agreed to participate in our boutique. As more vendors join the boutique I will announce them.

To purchase tickets, click here.

Paperie Wednesday – Moments of Color

2009-06-03T23:02:00.001-07:00

Autumn Amour

Chocolate & Cherries

Navy Monogram

Hot Chocolate

Gold n’ Syrup

Orchid Beauty

Silver Lily

Pinstripe Panache

Sweet Chic

I discovered Moments of Color, a couple of years ago and was drawn to the Chocolate and Cherries invitation set. Moments of Color is a small graphic studio in Australia. Moments of Color does ship to the United States.

Thank You Cards

2009-06-01T20:22:00.001-07:00

The biggest complaint that wedding guests have is that they did not receive a thank you card for their gift. We all love to receive gifts and weddings are a perfect occasion for gift giving. Your guests would like for you to acknowledge their gifts.

Approach your thank you cards with as much thought and organization as you did with the rest of your wedding planning.

For pre wedding events (engagement parties, bridal showers) thank you cards should be sent 2-3 weeks after the event.

Many brides think they have up to a year to send out thank you cards after the wedding. This is incorrect. Thank you cards should be sent no later than 2 months after the wedding, 3 months at the latest. If for some reason you are waiting on the proofs from your photographer then the thank you cards should be sent no later than 3 -4 months.

If you receive gifts after the wedding, follow up immediately and send cards within 3 weeks of receiving the gift.

Remember thank you cards should be handwritten and a separate card must be sent for each gift. I know that sending out cards for each event can be overwhelming but organization is the key. Microsoft Office has several gift tracker templates to help you keep organized. Click here to get your wedding gift tracker.

Get Married Announces New National Wedding Magazine

2009-05-28T12:13:00.000-07:00

Hot off the press

Get Married, the only multi-channeled wedding planning resource with platforms online and on television every weekday, announces today a third platform – a new, glossy national wedding magazine – making it the most comprehensive and integrated wedding resource. Get Married magazine is scheduled to publish its first issue October 2009. Tagged as a "new shopping & trend guide for the savvy bride," Get Married magazine extends the brand loyalty of Get Married’s Lifetime Television show viewers and GetMarried.com users who crave unique and integrated content. This third platform brings a tactile and fresh experience to a new generation of brides who aspire to discover new inspirations on TV, online and in print.

"Get Married magazine rounds out our truly integrated approach to wedding planning, and will continue to capture the excitement of brides who watch, surf and read their way through designing every moment of their wedding celebration,” said Stacie Francombe, founder and president of Get Married and GetMarried.com. "Get Married magazine will reinterpret the rules and translate the latest wedding trends, while offering a new perspective in an uplifting, edgy voice for creatively-innovative and inspirationally-driven brides."

In addition to offering a platform for the most sought-after wedding experts to share tips and ideas, Get Married magazine offers brides choices and guidance, and the first several issues will be distributed to approximately 300,000 brides. With smarter editorializing, Get Married magazine fills a void in the marketplace, combining planning with shopping, which is often a simultaneous process for brides. According to Magazine Publishers of America’s 2008 Survey, magazine readership is growing. In fact, 85 percent of Americans read magazines, and readership grew during the last five years, with audience growth more than all other media except the internet. Likewise, the average number of issues read by 25-34 year olds has increased 11.5 percent since 2004, an important factor for Get Married’s target demographic.

About Get Married Get Married, a national, integrated multi-media wedding planning destination, is the only resource that reaches couples through a highly synergized, tri-media platform: a TV show on Lifetime Television, a highly-trafficked website (http://www.getmarried.com/) and a glossy print publication. Whether you watch, read or surf, Get Married makes wedding planning a piece of cake. Get Married connects brides with local and national wedding professionals and industry experts through entertainment and news. Hosted by Colin Cowie, premier lifestyle expert and celebrity event designer, Get Married is the most-watched wedding entertainment program on television. The second season of Get Married's daily half-hour television series airs at 7:30 am ET/PT on Lifetime Television, the leader in women's television and one of the top-rated basic cable television networks. Video segments from the show are available online 24/7 at http://www.getmarried.com/, along with articles, picture galleries, blogs and an interactive shop.

Here's a sneak peek at the first cover:

For more information on how to receive a single free copy or in bulk, please contact Magazine@GetMarried.com.

Paperie Wednesday - Grapevine Paperie

2009-05-27T08:28:00.001-07:00

Etched Plexiglass Invitation

Letterpress Suite includes Save the Date, invitation and ceremony fan.
Embellished with a hand dyed satin ribbon.

Boarding Pass Save the Date

3 panel pocket invitation folder.

Save the Date fan book ready to ship in a gold metal tin.

Gorgeous red Save the Date magnet

Linen invitation box, shown in sage holds invitation, directions and response card.

CD Favor

Grapevine is a couture paperie and invitation design studio owned by Karen Bartolomei. Karen creates beautiful wedding invitations and stationary that can fit any style of wedding. To view more invitation designs, click here.

Freestyle Friday: Pakistani Wedding

2009-05-21T23:18:00.001-07:00

Photo Credit: Ross Oscar Knight Photography

Short & Sweet

2009-05-21T22:16:00.001-07:00

Today the CW announced that The Game will not be renewed for another season and has been cancelled. On friday, the season finale was aired. During the finale, Melanie and Derwin got married. Melanie wore a short wedding dress (see picture above). Many brides will not wear a short wedding dress, because it’s not traditional. Styles have evolved and brides are starting to wear “untraditional” dresses on their wedding day. I think we will see more short wedding dresses since the airing of this show. In case you are thinking of considering a short dresses, here are a few styles to consider.

Melissa Sweet

Vineyard Collection

Amsale

Paperie Wednesday - Gourmet Invitations

2009-05-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

I am a huge fan of gorgeous paper. I believe that the type of paper used for invitations sets the tone for your event. I came across Gourmet Invitations and fell in love. The name says it all. Gourmet Invitations designs custom invitations that are beautiful keepsakes. I highly recommend working with Gourmet Invitations, you will not be disappointed.

Below are my absolute favorite

I’m Over It

2009-05-19T21:18:00.001-07:00

Recently I was on twitter and saw a tweet from JuneBugWeddings regarding I’m Over It, so of course I had to check it out. I’m Over It is a company that rents gorgeous jewelry for weddings and other special occasions. I’m Over It allows you to wear jewelry like the celebrities but without the expensive price tag. Here are some of my favorites

ABS by Allen Schwartz (this would be absolutely perfect for an Indian wedding)

Crawford Collection

Garland Collection

Taylor Collection

Blue Topaz with bow (perfect for your something blue)

Pamper Me Pink & the Blue Lounge

2009-05-13T09:10:00.000-07:00

Exquisite Affairs has the pleasure of working with three non-profit organizations this year and planning fundraisers for the organizations as well as bringing awareness. We will be working with the Tower Cancer Research Foundation, Sickle Cell Disease Research Foundation and the Epilepsy Center.

On August 30, 2009, we will be sponsoring the Pamper Me Pink & the Blue Lounge event at the Hyatt Regency Century Plaza. Pamper Me Pink is a day of pampering, beauty treatments and shopping. This event will benefit the Tower Cancer Research Foundation.

Tower Cancer Research Foundation is a non-profit organization, founded in 1996. The foundation conducts clinical trials in order to develop new treatment for patients suffering from cancer and blood disorders. During its first year Tower conducted six research studies involving twenty patients. Today, Tower conducts over fifty clinical trials involving over two hundred patients. Tower Cancer Research Foundation is dedicated to providing one on one care to all of their patients suffering from cancer or blood disorders. The goal of the foundation is to accelerate the development of cancer treatments, educate and create awareness of prevention and treatment options, expand patient support services & promote community education, and establish strategic alliances to promote cancer research.

We are extremely excited about this event and working with the Tower Cancer Research Foundation. As the date approaches we will update the event page on our website and blog with information regarding the event.

Say I Do with Mirassou

2009-05-13T09:05:00.000-07:00

Mirassou Winery is giving away $10,000; a trip to New York for a 4 hour wedding consultation with a Brides editor; a Reed and Barton 5 piece dinner service for eight; 5 piece flatware for eight; and 3 piece crystal stemware for eight. To enter the contest, enter here. Contestants will be required to answer questions in order to enter the contest.

Shoe Fetish

2009-05-12T08:48:00.001-07:00

I love to see brides show their style and personality with their wedding shoes. Here are a few shoes that I found that I like.

Christian Louboutin Petal Sandal

Badgley Mischka

Benjamin Adam

Diane Lyn

Jonathan Jayne

Kate Spade -Lovely

Martinez Valero

Say I Do with J. Crew

2009-05-08T13:56:00.000-07:00

Sophia Gown

Whitney Gown

Nathalie Gown

Madison Gown

Lucinda Gown

Cotton Cady Alex Gown

For the Budget Savy Bride, J. Crew offers wedding gowns that will not break the bank. These wedding gowns range in price from $295.00 to $3,000.00. The dresses come in a variety of fabrics such as Cotton, Tulle, Linen, Crepe, Chiffom, and Silk Duponi. J. Crew also offers bridesmaids dress that range in price for $165.00 to $495.00. Bridesmaids dress can match the style of the brides dress or you can choose a style or styles that will compliment your wedding dress. The best part about these dresses is that they can be worn again to any event.

Delores Dress - Bridesmaids

Lorelei Dress - Bridesmaids

Sophia Dress - Bridesmaids

Postage Stamps Increase

2009-05-06T07:00:00.000-07:00

On May 11 the price for a 1-ounce First-Class Mail stamp will increase from 42¢ to 44¢. Prices for other mailing services — Standard Mail, Periodicals, Package Services (including Parcel Post), and Extra Services — will also change.

Make sure you weigh your invitations before purchasing stamps to make sure you have the correct postage.

Cinco De Mayo - Margarita Time

2009-05-05T08:49:00.000-07:00

Most people drink a Classic Margarita when going out. I like the flavored margaritas such as Peach or Mango, so I was happy to see that Hostess with the Mostess had 10 unique flavors of margaritas. Below are my favorites from the ten.

Pomegranate Margarita

Ingredients:
32 ounces Pomegranate juice
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, about two juicy limes
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1/2 cup tequila
1/4 cup orange flavored liquor

Directions:
In a medium bowl, whisk all ingredients. Place in a freezer and mix every 20 minutes for up to 1 hour until the mixture has a slushy frozen texture (or freeze in an ice cream maker according to the manufacturer’s directions). Serve frozen or chilled over ice.

Prickly Pear Margaritas
serves 6

Ingredients:
3 1/2 cups crushed ice
3 oz. freshly squeezed lime juice
3 oz. frozen limeade
6 Tequila
4 1/2 oz. Cointreau
3 oz. prickly pear cactus juice
3 T. sugar
Lime wedges and kosher salt for garnish

Instructions:
In a blender, add all of the ingredients (minus the garnish) and pulse it until the ice is completely blended. Taste and add more sugar if necessary.

Rub some of the lime around the rim of the glasses and then dip the glasses into the salt. Pour in the drink and garnish with a lime. Enjoy!

Watermelon Margarita

Ingredients:
2 parts, watermelon juice
1 part, orange liquor
1 part, tequila
1/2 lime, squeezed into shaker

Instructions: Add all ingredients into a shaker, shake well and pour into glass.
You could also choose to garnish with lime wedges instead of a watermelon chunk. You may opt to make these super strong or fairly light; play around with the measurements to get a drink that suits your event.

I found this Chocolate Margarita at Margarita Texas. This site has a number of different margaritas to choose from, since I like Chocolate Martinis, the Chocolate Margarita appealed to me.

Chocolate Margarita Recipe

Ingredients:
1 1/2 oz tequila (any kind)

1 oz Godiva liquor

2 tablespoon chocolate syrup

3/4 oz cream or half and half

2 oz orange juice

Stirrings Cocoa RimmerIce

Instructions:
Rim the glass with the cocoa rimmer. Combine all ingredients in a shaker and pour into a glass.

To see the other seven margaritas from Hostess with the Mostess, click here.

Source:

Pomegranate Margarita: Skinny Chef

Prickly Pear Margarita: My Sweet and Saucy

Watermelon Margarita: Eat Boutique

Chocolate Margarita: Margarita Texas

Strawberry Margarita Pie - Happy Cinco De Mayo Day

2009-05-05T08:35:00.000-07:00

I was reading Hostess with the Mostess Blog and found this delicious recipe for a Strawberry Margarita Pie.

Strawberry Margarita Pie Recipe

from Manchester Highlands Inn

Ingredients:

2 cups hulled fresh strawberries

2/3 cups sugar

1 ½ cup graham cracker crumbs

1 stick butter, softened

¾ cup sweetened condensed milk

6 Tbsp tequila

4 Tbsp triple sec

1 Tbsp fresh lime juice

2 cups heavy cream

Instructions:

Toss strawberries with 4 Tbsp sugar and set aside. Blend graham cracker crumbs, rest of sugar and butter in food processor. Press into bottom and up sides of buttered 9 inch springform pan.

Next, puree strawberries and sugar with condensed milk, tequila, triple sec and lime juice in processor or blender. Transfer to large bowl.

Whip cream until stiff peaks form. Fold 1/3 of cream into puree. Gently fold in remaining cream. Pour filling into pie crust, cover and freeze until firm, preferably overnight.

To serve, run hot, sharp knife around the sides of pan, remove dies and cut into wedges. Garnish with mint leaves and fresh strawberries.

Wedding Day Casting Notice

2009-05-01T08:10:00.000-07:00

Do you know of a couple who are planning on getting married or would like to marry Summer or Fall of 2009 who really DESERVE an amazing wedding but cannot afford it in these tough economic times?

“Wedding Day”, a new prime-time series premiering Tuesday - June 16th @ 9pm on TNT, is seeking to cast inspirational couples for our next amazing season!

You can view a promo of “Wedding Day” here: http://www.tnt.tv/dramavision/?oid=47477

Teachers, real-life heroes, volunteers, social workers, charity workers, etc. … we want to hear from you!

If you had to downgrade or delay your wedding plans due to job loss, injury, illness or deployment … we want to hear from you!

If you know of a couple who is so busy helping others they deserve someone to help them out … we want to hear from you – Nominate someone today!

Send a brief paragraph about your situation, or another couple's situation, the current wedding budget, a recent photo of the couple (in .jpg format), and your contact information to:

WeddingDay@markburnettprod.com

Please respond by May 15st, 2009.
***Couples may be asked to make a casting video with friends and family. ***

Barbie turns 50 - Pretty in Pink

2009-04-29T15:20:00.000-07:00

I am late sharing the pictures from Barbie's Birthday Celebration. In honor of Barbie's Birthday, Mattel went all out with a Pink Birthday Bash at the Barbie Dream House in Malibu, California. Jonathan Adler handled the interior design of the dream house while Colin Cowie handled the dedor, the bling and other details. The event include a custom made convertible VW Bug, a dessert bar with cupcakes, pink s'mores and pink m&m's.

Celebrity Weddings

2009-04-27T11:08:00.001-07:00

Over the weekend Salma Hayek married billionaire Francois-Henri Pinalt again with a ceremony in Venice. The couple first tied the knot in a civil ceremony in Paris. Salma wore a Balenciaga wedding gown.

Heidi Montag, star of The Hills married Spencer Prattat again at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Pasadena, California on Saturday afternoon. The couple eloped to Mexico in November. Heidi wore a custom made Monique Lluiller dress and Neil Lane Jewelry. Spencer wore an Ermenegildo Zegna suit.

Source:
Salma Hayek: People
Heidi Montag: US Weekly

Eco-Chic Shoppers

2009-04-22T08:08:00.000-07:00

Happy Earth Day! I found these beautiful eco-friendly shoppers

The last picture is from Smudge Ink. Smudge Ink offers this multi purpose totes in several designs, each for $9.95.

Chocolate Martini

2009-04-21T22:18:00.000-07:00

A Cocktail Celebration inspired by the Chocolate Martini

Chocolate Martini

1 1/2 shots Godiva® chocolate liqueur
1 1/2 shots creme de cacao
1/2 shot vodka
2 1/2 shots half-and-half

Mix all ingredients in a shaker with ice, shake and pour into a chilled cocktail glass.

Recipe from Drinks Mixer Photo from My Recipes.

Today, Polka Dot Bride featured a great inspiration board for a wedding inspired by the chocolate martini. You know I love chocolate martinis, it’s one of my favorite cocktails!. I couldn’t help but share this delicious idea. Go over to Polka Dot Bride right now to find more ideas and inspiration for this awesome event…do so by clicking here.

Wedding gown by Mariana Hardwick, cake from Brides, boutonnieres from Martha Stewart Weddings, programs from Brides, chocolate martini from My Recipes, cigars from The Fairmount Bride, chocolate desserts from Koko Black, Bircage Veil from ktjean, Lounge photo from Theobroma Chocolate Lounge, polka dot stockings and shoes from Jigsaw

Freestyle Friday - Inspiration by Preston Bailey

2009-04-10T19:03:00.001-07:00

Trunk Show

2009-04-09T12:34:00.000-07:00

TEJANI TRUNK SHOW
LOS ANGELES • APRIL 17 - 19
April 17 — 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
April 18 — 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
April 19 — 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

The Bridal Bar
624 N. Doheny Drive
Los Angeles, CA

Preview the entire bridal and bridesmaids collection.

15% off all purchases made at the show.

Eco Friendly Invitations

2009-04-08T14:59:00.001-07:00

Eco-friendly invitations are the perfect combination of modern design and environmental responsibility. Brides and Grooms can have a green wedding without compromising style. Copper Willow is an eco-friendly letterpress company that specializes in wedding invitations. Copper Willow uses eco-friendly products to create beautiful invitations, wedding albums and event accessories. Picture above is just a few of their designs. Check out their website to view more of the invitations that they offer.

Freestyle Friday - Inspiration by Diann Valentine

2009-04-03T14:10:00.001-07:00

Damask

2009-04-03T13:59:00.000-07:00

Damask is a beautiful pattern and will be seen throughout weddings and events in 2009. This pattern can be incorporated with any color and still maintain its elegance. Wedding Chicks is giving away a free damask invitation suite here.

Photo Credits:
1st row: Wedding Paper Divas, BBJ Linen, Etsy
2nd row: Etsy, Pink Design Events, Etsy
3rd row: Pink Design Events, Luxe Invites, Etsy
4th row: all from Etsy
5th row: all from Etsy

Sweet Treats

2009-03-31T21:03:00.000-07:00

As I was checking out the Coldstone website to order a cake and see what new creations they came up with, I found these cupcakes. Coldstone now offers ice cream cupcakes. The cupcakes come in a pack of six, two of each flavor. These are a great treat to serve at a shower or for a girls night out.

Photo Cards

2009-03-27T08:22:00.000-07:00

Timeless Vertical Card

Rectangular Quad

Square Quad

Bridal Inquirer had a contest giving away a $50.00 gift certificate to Photo Card Creations. I am happy that I won the gift certificate. Photo Card Creations is a company that makes custom cards using your digital photos and printing the photos on card stock. There are several cards that I like which are the Quad Jigsaw, Rectangular Quad and the Square Quad. My absolute favorite is the Timeless Vertical Quad. If you are in need of beautiful thank you cards or want to annouce your engagement or birth of a child, please contact Photo Card Creations.

Cocktails

2009-03-11T15:44:00.000-07:00

In celebration of my birthday today, I am sharing a few cocktails that I have found and enjoy.

Snickertini

*note: 2 tablespoons=1 ounce…and drink responsibly!

2 tablespoons cocoa powder, for rimming

2 ounces dark creme de cacao (recommended: Dekuyper)

1 ounce Irish cream liqueur (recommended: Bailey’s)

1 ounce hazelnut liqueur (recommended: Frangelico)

1 ounce light creamMint sprigs, for garnish

Dip the rim of each glass in water and then in the cocoa powder; set aside.
Pour the remaining ingredients, except for the mint, in a cocktail shaker, half-filled with ice cubes. Shake vigorously and strain into martini glasses. Garnish each glass with a sprig of mint and serve.
Makes 2 servings. *This is a great substitue for the chocolate martini.

Pomtini (Pomegranate Martini)

Ingredients:

2 oz. Citrus Vodka

1/2 oz. fresh lemon juice

1/4 oz. fresh pomegranate juice

1 oz. simple syrup

Combine all ingredients in an ice-filled cocktail shaker. Shake well and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with orange peel.

Coconut Grove

· 1½ ounces Malibu (or other coconut-flavored rum)
· ½ cup coconut sorbet or gelato
· 1 ounce fresh lime juice
· 1 ounce coconut milk
· Pineapple wedge
· Dusting of ground nutmeg

Combine all ingredients but the garnishes in a blender with ½ cup ice. Blend until smooth. Pour into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with the pineapple, and sprinkle the top with nutmeg.

Anyone of these cocktails can be used for a signature drink during your wedding or event.

Source

Snickertini

Pomtini

Coconut Grove

New Logo

2009-03-10T20:26:00.000-07:00

We have a new logo. Our logo was created by Nicole at Pink Design Events. Nicole designs beautiful custom company logos as well as monograms, wedding invitations, programs, stamps and other accessories. Nicole is a pleasure to work with. I highly recommend Nicole to anyone that is planning their wedding or an event. You will not be disappointed. Check out Pink Design Events blog here. Here are a few of my favorite designs from Pink Design Events.

Hosting a Weekend Brunch

2009-03-09T13:15:00.000-07:00

On March 15, Pottery Barn is having a class on hosting a weekend brunch. This class will feature entertaining ideas and recipes from Frandango: Recipes, Parties & License to Make Magic by Sandy Hill. You will learn how to host a unique easter gathering, have an easter egg hunt for the entire family and how to hold a spring luncheon for your friends.

If you live in the Los Angeles area, you can meet the author, Sandy Hill and her executive chef, Stephanie Valentine at the following locations.

3/14 10:00 am at La Cumbre Plaza

3/14 2:00 pm at Sherman Oaks

3/15 10:00 am at the Beverly Drive location

3/15 1:00 pm at 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica

Diamonds are a Girl's Best Friend

2009-03-02T18:17:00.001-08:00

Blackwell Necklace

Blackwell Earrings

I know what you are thinking I can’t afford diamonds right now and my budget is already tight. Last week I was introduced to Adorn Brides. Adorn Brides rents gorgeous diamond jewelry for weddings and other special occasions. Adorn Brides allows you to have the red carpet look and feel like a million bucks without the red carpet price tags. Adorn Brides has been featured on The View, CBS News, New York Times and other media outlets.

Beckford Necklace: Sapphires & Diamonds

Valentine Earrings: Sapphire & Diamonds

In case you need something blue and want something that stands out, the sapphire and diamond Beckford Necklace is gorgeous and can be worn with the Valentine Earrings.

Lloyd Bangle

Hartley Earrings

Stevenson Earrings

Spencer Necklace

The Lloyd Bangle and Hartley Earrings are perfect if you are going for a classic look on your wedding day. The Spencer Necklace is fabulous and reminds me of the Fred Leighton necklace that Taraji P. Henson was wearing on Oscar night.

7 Tips for the Budget Bride

2009-02-25T15:41:00.000-08:00

Colin Cowie shares seven tips for the Budget Bride on Get Married. All of the tips are great, my favorites are #2 and #6. You can view all 7 tips which can be found here.

Oscar Fashion

2009-02-23T22:29:00.001-08:00

Taraji P.Henson

Beyonce

I watch the Oscars just for the Red Carpet Show. Beyonce looked beautiful in her black and gold strapless dress. The belle of the ball was Taraji P.Henson in a cream colored strapless dress by Robert Cavalli with a 19th Century diamond flower necklace by Fred Leighton and red clutch by Mary Norton.

Questions To Ask Your Photographer

2009-02-17T10:57:00.000-08:00

For most couples, their wedding day is one of the most memorable days in their lives. Capturing their special day through photography is of high priority to most couples and arranging for wedding photographers is one of the most important decisions that needs to be made. Your wedding photographer will be responsible for supplying the treasured photos that will be reviewed by the you, your family and friends. Your wedding photographer will be responsible for recording some of the small but important details of the your wedding which are often overlooked. In order to help you select a photographer that will capture those special moments and your style, I have listed important questions to ask your photographer.

1. What’s your primary style? Posed and formal, relaxed, photojournalistic, creative, artistic, candid, traditional?

2. Do you shoot in color or black and white? Or both? Do you shoot in a digital format that can create both color and b/w versions of the same picture?

3. What kind of input can we have on the direction of the shots? Can we give you a shot list to work from?

4. Are you the wedding photographer who will actually take our pictures? If not, can we meet the person who will be?

5. Can we meet any assistants who will also be our taking pictures?
6. How many times have you worked specifically as a wedding photographer? How many were similar to the size and formality of our wedding?

7. How many other events will you photograph that weekend?

8. What type of cameras do you use? Will you have a backup in case something breaks or doesn’t work?
How intrusive will lighting, tripods, other equipment or assistants be?

9. Do you develop your own film?

10. Can we buy the negatives from you?

11. Do you have photos of an entire wedding that I can see?

12. Do you have references I can call?

13. Do you post the proofs online or will I receive negatives?

14. When will my proofs, prints & wedding albums be available?

15. How many pictures will you take?

16. Are you apart of any professional associations?

17. How many years have you been photographing weddings?

18. How much do you charge for overtime?

After you have met with your potential photographer, ask yourself Do I like this person?, Do I get a good feeling from him/her, Do I like his/her style? Do I like their work? Does he/she capture the details? Is their work in focus and well framed?

Be sure to call their references before making a final decision. You may feel awkward to call a stranger but remember that you are spending hundreds or thousands of dollars on your photographer and you want to make a well informed decision. Your photographs will be one of the lasting aspects of your wedding day and you want to make sure that you pick the best photographer for you.

(Let's Make) Whoopie Pies - Part 2

2009-02-13T10:07:00.001-08:00

Strawberry Whoopie Pies
Makes about 3 dozen Cookies

Ingredients:

· 1 cup (about 5 ounces) stemmed and halved strawberries
· 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
· 1 1/2 tsp. baking powder
· 1 tsp. baking soda
· 3/4 tsp. salt
· 2 cups light brown sugar
· 2/3 cup canola oil
· 1/2 cup plain yogurt
· 2 large eggs

Filling:
· 1 cup (about 5 ounces) stemmed and halved strawberries
· 5 egg whites
· 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
· 4 sticks butter , cut into cubes, at room temperature
· Red no-taste gel food coloring

To make cookies: Put strawberries in a food processor and pulse in short bursts just until they are chopped into small pieces (about 4 to 5 pulses), and set aside. (Be careful not to puree them.) Sift flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt into a medium bowl, and set aside.

Put brown sugar and oil in a large bowl and mix well, using the back of a spoon to break up any lumps in sugar. Whisk in chopped strawberries and yogurt until combined, then whisk in eggs, one at a time, just until combined. Fold in flour mixture in two parts, being careful not to overwork the batter. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Preheat oven to 350°. Using a measuring spoon, drop a heaping tablespoon of batter onto a parchment-paper-lined baking sheet to form each cookie, spacing dollops about 2 inches apart. Working in batches, bake until cookies are set and a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean, 10 to 12 minutes. Remove cookies from oven; cool completely.

To make filling: Puree strawberries in a food processor until smooth (about 15 seconds); set aside. Whisk egg whites and granulated sugar together in the top of a double boiler until sugar is dissolved and mixture is milky white, about 2 minutes. Transfer egg white mixture to the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a whisk attachment and whisk on high speed until soft peaks form and mixture is glossy, about 2 minutes. Remove whisk attachment and replace with paddle attachment. Add butter and beat until smooth and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Add reserved strawberry puree and about 3 to 5 drops food coloring (frosting should be a light shade of pink), and beat again until well combined, about 1 minute more.

To assemble: Generously frost the flat side of half of the cookies, then top each with an unfrosted cookie to form sandwiches. Transfer to a platter and serve.

(Let's Make) Whoopie Pies

2009-02-13T10:04:00.002-08:00

Chocolate Whoopie Pies

Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
2/3 cups cocoa
1-1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1 stick butter (1/2 cup), softened
1 cup firmly packed light-brown sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 cup buttermilk
White crystal sugar

Filling:
3/4 stick unsalted butter (6 tablespoons), softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 jar (7-1/2 ounces) marshmallow cream, such as Marshmallow Fluff
2 teaspoons vanilla
Red food coloring

Directions:
Heat oven to 350°F. Grease 2 large baking sheets. In medium bowl, combine flour, cocoa, and baking soda. In large bowl, with mixer on high speed, beat together butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add egg and vanilla, and beat to combine. Alternate adding flour mixture and buttermilk in small batches, beginning and ending with flour mixture. Mix until smooth, occasionally scraping sides of bowl.

With a tablespoon, spoon mounds of batter 2 inches apart onto baking sheets. Sprinkle half with crystal sugar. Bake 15 minutes or until tops are puffed and cakes spring back when touched. Transfer to a rack and cool completely.

To make filling: In medium bowl, with mixer on high speed, beat together butter, powdered sugar, marshmallow cream, and vanilla until smooth, about 3 minutes. Add a drop or two of food coloring, and mix to tint pink. Makes about 1-1/2 cups of filling.

Spread a rounded tablespoon of filling on flat sides of half the cakes. Top with other cakes.

V-Day Sweets

2009-02-13T09:15:00.000-08:00

Valentines Day is tomorrow. Many of you may still be in the planning process. Throughtout the day I will be posting a little inspiration and recipes.

Red Hot Velvet Cupcakes with Cinnamon Buttercream

Ingredients:

Makes 36 cupcakes:

· 1/4 cup dark unsweetened cocoa powder
· 2 Tbsp. red no-taste gel food coloring
· 1/4 cup boiling water
· 6 Tbsp. unsalted butter , cut into small pieces and softened
· 2 Tbsp. room temperature vegetable shortening
· 1 2/3 cups sugar
· 3 large eggs
· 1 cup buttermilk
· 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
· 2 1/2 cups cake flour
· 1 tsp. salt
· 1 Tbsp. cider vinegar
· 1 tsp. baking soda

Buttercream Frosting:
· 1 1/2 cups sugar
· 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
· 1 1/2 cups milk
· 1/4 cup heavy cream
· 3 sticks unsalted butter , soft but cool, cut into small pieces
· 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
· 2 tsp. cinnamon
· Cinnamon imperials candies (optional)
· Red white-chocolate hearts (optional)

To make cupcakes: Preheat oven to 325°. Line 36 (2 1/2-inch) muffin pan cups with paper liners. In a medium bowl, whisk together cocoa powder, food coloring, and boiling water. Set aside to cool. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, cream butter and shortening until smooth. Scrape down bowl and add sugar. Beat until mixture is light and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.

Stir buttermilk and vanilla into the cooled cocoa mixture. Sift cake flour and salt together into another bowl. With the mixer on low, alternate adding the flour mixture (in 3 parts) and the cocoa mixture (in 2 parts) to the egg mixture. Beat until incorporated. In a small bowl, combine vinegar and baking soda and stir until baking soda dissolves; the mixture will fizz. Add to batter and stir until just combined.

Fill each cupcake liner about 2/3 full with batter. Bake 20 to 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from oven, transfer to a wire rack, and let cool for 10 minutes. Remove cupcakes from pan, and let cool completely.

To make buttercream frosting: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, whisk the sugar and flour together. Add the milk and cream and cook over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until the mixture boils and has thickened, about 12 minutes. Transfer the mixture to the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Beat on medium-high speed until cool, 5 minutes. Reduce the speed to low and add the butter; beat until thoroughly incorporated. Increase speed to medium-high and beat until frosting is light and fluffy, 3 minutes. Add the vanilla and cinnamon and continue mixing until combined. If the frosting is too soft, transfer the bowl to the refrigerator to chill slightly, then beat again until it is the proper consistency. If the frosting is too firm, place the bowl over a pot of simmering water and beat with a wooden spoon until it is the proper consistency.

Frost each cupcake with buttercream. Garnish with cinnamon imperials and white-chocolate hearts, if desired.

*Photo and recipe courtesy of O Magazine

Sweets for your Sweetie

2009-02-05T08:49:00.001-08:00

Sweetheart Dessert Plates

Sweetie Pies

Romantic Fortune Cookies

Perfect Ending Cupcakes

Message Cookies

Chocolate Dipped Strawberries

Valentine's Day is fastly approaching. As you prepare to make arrangements for this special day, think about desserts that will end a beautiful evening. Whether you and your sweetheart go out for dinner or you prepare a romatic meal at home, any one of these treats will end a great meal. Serve your dessert on one of the dessert plates. After your sweetheart eats the dessert, there is a cute message on the plate.

Where to Purchase:

Sweetheart Dessert Plates and Romantic Fortune Cookies: RedEnvelope

Message Cookies, Perfect Endings Cupcakes, and Sweetie Pies: Williams-Sonoma

Chocolate Dipped Strawberries: Shari's Berries

Morning Inspiration

2009-02-04T10:50:00.000-08:00

While reading Southern Weddings Magazine's Blog this morning, I came across these beautiful pictures of Karen Tran's wedding of Karen Tran Florals. I absolutely love Karen's work. Karen's wedding was held at the Hotel Coronado. According to Karen, the flower girls carried a floral bag embellished with sweetheart roses and crystal brooches. The ring bearers carried a silk boxes adorned with brown orchids. The flower girls bag is gorgeous and unique. The last three sets of pictures are from the wedding reception. Karen used white and cream flowers for the ceremony and vibrant red and orange flowers for the reception. The reception has an island style theme that was executed extremely well. I absolutely love the crystals hanging from the centerpieces. These pictures are truly an inspiration and can also be found at Karen Tran's blog.