Sarah Ward Events

Peter, Peter...

2011-10-20T10:23:00.000-07:00

Y'all, autumn is crazy for me! I've been slacking on these blogs, I know! But I'm back... at least for the moment!

Not only is fall an insane busy time for most of us in the wedding industry but it also happens to be my very favorite time of year. The chilly weather (although we've had quite the Indian summer here this year...hello 90 degree weather. What?), the changing leaves, sweaters, scarves, mulled cider...my list goes on and on.

One item on that list of "loves" is pumpkins. Big fat ones, little cute ones, orange ones, white ones...it doesn't matter. I think they're adorable. And for my October brides, I love the idea of incorporating these gourds into your big day.

Now, I'm not suggesting jack-o-lanterns...at least not in the classic sense. Cut pretty designs out, paint them, glitter them, bejewel them. The possibilities are endless! Remember that it's all in the details. Scatter a few lit up pumpkins throughout your event. Down the aisle, on your cocktail tables, lining the back of your escort card table, etc. etc.

Where to find these pumpkins? Make a day of it and go pumpkin picking with your wedding party. I'll be checking out Arata Pumpkin Farm in Half Moon Bay with a few of my besties this Sunday. Photo ops abound! I'm thinking it'll be a really fun memory maker for you & those closest to you. Right?

Pumpkins can be a whimsical, cute and fun touch to your wedding. But if you don't want to go that far with the fall theme then maybe consider a dessert bar with autumnal touches. Mini pumpkin pies, apple tarts and bourbon bread pudding. Yum, right?

As always, have fun with it. Happy Fall, y'all!

What's More Fun Than A DYI Involving Beer? Nothing, That's What.

2011-09-01T12:06:00.000-07:00

Today's inpiration is comes from my little brain's inability to shut off at 2am. One of my family members recently became engaged and I, of course, have been itching to get some wedding planning done regardless of the fact that they decided to postpone their big day. If ya'll didn't know...weddings can be expensive for those of us with good taste (it must run in the family!). That and these two have such big hearts that they don't want their parents to have to pay out of their retirements for their dream wedding. Anywho, just because it's postponed a bit doesn't stop me from brainstorming.

A few items that I took into consideration:

The bride wants her girls in black dresses...so they can wear them again. What a sweetie! Got to love a considerate bride!
The bride & groom aren't frilly. There will be no pink, no glitter, no feathers.
Their main focus is for their guests to have the time of their life, for their families to have time enough to get to know each other and for there to be an open bar.
They aren't "ballroom" people so the possible venues have all had a rustic feel to them. For example, Holman Ranch is a contender.
They are both foodies & drinkies. And yes, I just coined "drinkies". You're welcome, Websters.

With all of that in mind I put together the following ideas...

Rustic Wooden Family Style Tables with Mahogany "Bistro" Chairs & Glass Etched Chargers
Floral Arrangements in Old Beer Bottles in Various Glass Colors (Clear, Brown & Green)
Cost Effective Flowers (No Peonies Here!) in White/Cream Palette To Include Baby's Breath, Mums and Freesia (To give off that a-mazing scent...I'm a big believer in just a touch of fragrant flowers. It's a memory maker.)

Favorite part of this design? The beer bottles. And since they've postponed the wedding a bit it means they'll have plenty of time to drink all that beer. Pretty sure their friends won't mind helping with that wedding project!

Campsite Not Required

2011-08-20T14:29:00.000-07:00

In case you haven't noticed yet, I've got myself quite the sweet-tooth. Cravings come along with that sweet-tooth and on this foggy day all I can think about is bundling up around a bonfire on the beach and roasting s'mores.

I love the idea of incorporating these tasty treats into a late summer wedding. How do you do that, you ask? Well, funny you should ask...

How about you offer up these S'more Nut Bars in a little cellophane bag, pretty ribbon & custom tag as your favors?
Or, if you're going the cupcake route why not offer up these scrumptious looking S'more Cupcakes?
Look at this idea that I stumbled on...S'mores Cake In a Jar. Pretty sure I'm going to be trying this at home very soon! Marshmallows? Good. Chocolate Cake? Good. Graham Cracker Crust? Good. Put it all in a jar and call it a day? Sold.
Now, I've been seeing a lot of pie stations...and I love it! But, they're most often berry pies (which again, I love!) but why not shake things up a bit with a S'More Pie?
Or, heck, go the traditional route! Have a beach-side rehearsal dinner with all the fixin' of a traditional bonfire! Barbecue up some meat, bring some beer and roast those s'mores! It'll definitely be a rehearsal to remember!

If you're not a s'mores fan (borderline blasphemy if you ask me!) then incorporate something else you love into your big day! It's all in the details, ya'll.

Hope you're all out enjoying your Saturday! xoxo

**Thanks to Jason Diavatis with Bay Area Entertainment for inspiring my craving! Looking forward to our next SF NACE event! S'mores and all!**

You Know That Old Saying...

2011-08-03T18:26:00.000-07:00

So the saying goes, "Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue and a sixpence in her shoe". It's said that if a bride has all of the before mentioned items on her person that her marriage will be a happy one. Let's take a peek at each of these for some helpful suggestions...

Something old symbolizes continuity to the bride's family & the past. A few options for "something old" are:

An old family locket or other sentimental piece of jewelry.
A love letter from your grandmother to your grandfather (back when people still wrote love letters!).
A vintage hankie.
A small photograph from your parents wedding in a small frame & attached to your bouquet.

Something new symbolizes hope & optimism for the bride & her new husband. Consider the following for your newness:

Sassy new shoes. I'm thinking Louboutin...but that's just me ;).
The key to your new home.
A new piece of jewelry...mayhaps something your sweet groom gifted to you on the big day (Hint hint, guys!).

Something borrowed is usually borrowed from a happily married friend or family member. It's said that their good luck in marriage will be carried over to the new couple. It will also remind the bride that she has family & friends to rely on in her new adventure. Ideas on this one are:

A fabulous vintage brooch from your grandmother's stash of costume jewelry (Another great item for the bouquet!).
You know that couple that everyone wants to be? How about you ask to borrow her veil? It was gorgeous after all...
Your favorite aunt's favorite pair of earrings. She's always had good taste. That's why she's your favorite.

Something blue symbolizes love, modesty & fidelity. In fact, the color blue has been tied to weddings since Ancient Rome! A few true blue thoughts are...

Something lacy & blue underneath that dress of yours.
Sapphires. Plain & simple.
Blue satin ribbon wrapped around your bouquet.

Now, the tricky part. Sixpence. It's said that putting a sixpence in your left shoe on your wedding day will usher in good fortune & prosperity. Problem is...where do you even begin to find a sixpence? It's actually quite easy with the handy dandy internet. There are actual companies out there that specialize in wedding sixpences. Oh, the wedding industry. Anything and everything you could ever need is out there.

Whether you choose to follow the saying to a "t" or forgo it altogether, your day is what you make it and it will be special no matter what. Food for thought!

xoxo

Fabulous Fascinators

2011-07-15T22:27:00.000-07:00

For those of you not in the know, a fascinator is termed as a frivolous head decoration. In other words, pure fabulousness. Now, some of ya'll may not want to rock this much pure unadulterated awesome on your big day. If that's the case, I do think that it'd still be a really fun accessory for either your rehearsal dinner or bachelorette party. Heck, even include your girlies in the fun! Put your bridesmaids in some fun head toppers for the ceremony or ask that your girls wear these to your bachelorette party.

Incorporating these fun little architectural head pieces will ensure that you have the most stylish of soirees! Current obsession right there. Happy Friday, ya'll!

**Check out out more of these head pieces on Etsy @ EllaGajewska

Who Needs A Grown-Up Cake?

2011-06-15T19:23:00.000-07:00

It's been too long, folks! I know! Let's just say that between moving and AT&T internet service having wonderful customer service...blogging has been difficult to get around to. BUT good news is that I'm back and Starbucks will be seeing much less of me. Okay, well, I can't lie. They'll still see a lot of me but at least now I don't need to use their internet! Just their caffeine...

Today's post is inspired by my birthday. Who doesn't love birthday cake? Lord knows I do! It's my favorite part of any birthday! Wedding cake on the other hand...it's got quite a stigma attached. More and more couples are opting to nix it all together and go with candy stations, chocolate fountains or late night cookie stations. This saddens me because I really do love the idea of having a cake to cut at your reception. The pictures alone are worth it, in my opinion, and you'll probably make the parents happy with the tradition. Parents don't do well with change...but I digress...

I believe I've found a solution...FUNFETTI! Imagine if you will a three tiered white cake filled with funfetti morsels, covered in Duncan Hines frosting and sprinkles. It's a little redneck. I know. I plead the I-Grew-Up-In-Mississippi excuse. It doesn't come out too often but every once in a while...

But seriously, who can resist that? Definitely not your wedding coordinator. And I'm guessing not the rest of your guests, either.

Anywho, glad to be back, lovlies! xoxo

Lottery Winners May Disregard...

2011-04-08T18:09:00.000-07:00

To keep with my last posting...let's talk about budgets. More specifically how to stay on one! A wedding is a huge financial undertaking. We all know this. Unfortunately, I don't think you truly know until you start planning one. You have a vision. Four course meal, full hosted bar, lush centerpieces, that amazing photographer you saw on The Knot. Then the reality comes crashing in. That four course meal is $150 per person. The full hosted bar is going to cost you a ridiculous amount. Add in the peony-laden flower arrangements plus the award winning photographer and you are left considering selling a kidney to pay for your dream wedding. It doesn't have to be that way, y'all! Here are just a few tips to help cut back...

1. You can probably guess what my first item is... hire a coordinator! I know what you're thinking, "Sarah, you do realize coordinators cost money, right?". Yes, sillies, I do. I also realize that coordinators have cultivated relationships with caterers, florists, photographers and entertainment professionals that are worth their weight in gold. These vendors want to work with a coordinator because they're going to make their job easier and send them more business. So in turn, you often can get a percentage off or a few extras thrown in based solely off of the relationship these vendors have with your coordinator. Not to mention the fact that the coordinator is going to make your life a whole lot easier...but that's something I've discussed before. No need to bore you!

2. Cut your guest list! Yes, I know that you want a big fun wedding. But let's have a quick reality check. Do you have 300 people who are your close personal friends? That if you called them in the middle of the night, they'd get up and help you with your flat tire? If you do, kudos! Lord knows I couldn't keep up with that many people! If you don't, then consider cutting those people who are acquaintances or friends-of-friends. Your wedding is a special and personal day. Don't add guests just to add guests. Some of the most enjoyable weddings I have been to have been those that were 100 people or less.

3. Re-evaluate your bar. Yes, a lot of the people you're inviting like to enjoy a cocktail (or five). Does that mean that you should bend to their alcoholic needs? Not necessarily. While I definitely do not agree with no-host bars, I also think only offering beer & wine is perfectly acceptable. Remember why you're there in the first place. You're there to celebrate your new life together with your love-bug. Not to see who can drink the most Irish car bombs.

4. Location, location, location. There are some truly beautiful spots out there to get married. The trick is to find one that offers you most of what you need for a reasonable price. Consider how much decor/flowers you'll need to spruce the place up. If your ceremony spot is a gorgeous outdoor location, you probably won't need to order flowers to decorate the alter. Do they offer tables, chairs, china, silverware, etc. with the rental fee? Or will you have to pay extra for all the necessities. Ideally, try to find a place that is both aesthetically pleasing but that also provides you with everything you need without nickel & diming you.

5. Filet Mignon would be nice but... Unfortunately for my taste buds I have experienced what people have termed "rubber chicken" at an event. I strongly agree that this should be avoided at all costs. On the flip side, one of the best meals I've ever had at an event was a chicken dish. My point? It's all about who you hire. If you hire quality, you're going to get quality...even if it's chicken. I understand there are those of you who are "foodies". I'm right there with you. But when planning your menu & budget, don't immediately choose the most expensive cut of meat for the entree because you think it's going to be the most impressive. You can accomplish a wonderfully tasty dinner for a much lower cost when you hire the right caterer.

Now take a quick look at the list above. You'll notice that I didn't mention cutting corners on photography or entertainment. In my opinion, guys, these are the two places that you don't want to compromise. Photos are forever and getting people out on the dance floor is pretty much the point of hiring entertainment. I've seen what cutting these two areas equal and it's not pretty. That's a whole other blog post in and of itself!

Above all...remember why you're getting married. Go into your planning knowing that there will be things you'll need to sacrifice. Most brides have expensive taste! In the end you won't even remember why it was so important to have all of those extras that would have cost you so much. All that will matter will be your honey standing at the end of the aisle waiting for you and all of the people who love the two who are there to share such an important day.

Happy Friday, lovies!

DIY Flowers? Me Thinks No.

2011-02-24T15:43:00.000-08:00

We're living in a recession, people. Yeah, yeah. Go ahead and say it..."No, duh, Sarah. Thanks for the newsflash". The both unfortunate & fortunate part of the recession is that people are still getting married. Fortunate for me because it's my livelihood. Fortunate for everyone else because...well, it's love! It makes the world go 'round. That and everyone loves a wedding...or so I hear. It's unfortunate because we're surrounded by "Platinum Weddings" and "Bridezillas". We live in a society that constantly tells women that they should have the uber-extravagant wedding because they deserve it. Well, you very well may deserve to have diamond encrusted napkin rings at your reception but guess what? The reality is that everyone has taken a hit in this economy which means that you probably won't get that bling. Instead people are opting for ipod weddings, no-host bars, friends for photographers, ixnay on the avors-fay, etc.

One of the trends that I've also seen is the do-it-yourself-florist. Guys, let me just say... no. Hey, before I was in the business I went that way for a big party I threw. While it wasn't a disaster...it wasn't good either. And that's why I feel so strongly about hiring an actual florist. Let me explain a few reasons why...

1. Peace of Mind. Here's what the day before your wedding should look like: pampering, eating, drinking, laughing and... more pampering. You shouldn't be running around like a crazy lady because you don't have enough ribbon for the bouquets or the anemones you specially ordered are already wilting. And don't forget about the day-of. Who's going to deliver & set up all of those handmade centerpieces? Yes, that's what family and friends are for but- well let's just say that their emotions are going crazy, too. Why add craziness to an already crazy day? Trust me when I say that hands will be full without having to worry about whether or not your Auntie actually got the flowers onto the tables. Adding more chaos to an already chaotic day is...no bueno.

2. Vases, Ribbon, Tape, Oh my! I don't know about you but I don't have twenty vases lying around my house. Depending on what you're looking for in terms of centerpieces go, each vase could be around $15. Then you have yards and yards of ribbon you'll need to wrap your bouquets in, the floral tape, the pearl pins, etc., etc. And that's just your supplies. We haven't even touched on the flowers yet...

3. The logistics. Ever see a florist's studio? They have huge refrigerators that hold all of the flowers and lots of counter space to work on. Ever see their transportation? Typically, it's a large air conditioned van. So...the questions are then...how will you get all of the flowers and vases to your venue? Where are you going to store all of your flowers and vases once you get there? Where are you going to work on the flowers? Venues typically won't let you work on flowers in their ballrooms because, well, floral work is messy work. How about refrigeration? While it's true that venues typically have lots of refrigeration, that space is reserved for your food and beverages. I'm not saying it's not doable. I'm just saying...it's going to be a pain. And generally, I don't suggest adding pain to stress. It doesn't equal pretty things.

4. Timing. Let's say you're making your own floral arrangements. The flowers arrive from the grower on Thursday. Check-in to hotel on Friday (typically around 4pm). Rehearsal (let's say, hypothetically, at 5pm). Rehearsal dinner (again, hypothetical, 6:30pm). After dinner & drinks, your bridesmaids probably won't be up for floral design. And even if they are, do you think you'll be getting 100% from them or yourself after an already long day? You might say that it'd be a great bonding experience. Sure...or the stress could make it all too much. Again, guys, I'm speaking from experience. You're going to be so much happier if you can simply enjoy your weekend festivities. Bond with your girls over champagne and pedicures! Ideally, you shouldn't have to lift a finger once you're on property. One thing that I am constantly stressing...a wedding should be ENJOYABLE! So enjoy yourself.

5. Cost. I know it sounds like doing your own flowers would be cheaper than hiring a florist. Reality...it's not. A bouquet takes anywhere from twenty to forty blooms. An average sized centerpiece will take twenty-five to fifty blooms. If you have four bridesmaids and fifteen tables then you're looking at around 450+ blooms. Once you add up the blooms, the vases, the supplies, the possible extra rental fee you may have to pay at your venue for set-up...it's going to be around the cost of a florist...with a big ol' heaping side of frustration. Not worth it, y'all.

6. Perfectionism. This may just be me but I have a crazy suspicion that it's not. One of the reasons why I would hire a florist to do a party or wedding of my own is because, well, I need perfect. If I do my own flowers I know that I'd be looking at them all night going, "man, that vase could have used a few more tulips" or, "a few of those flowers in that arrangement should have been trimmed a bit more, it looks uneven". I'd be completely sidetracked with the lack of perfection and frustrated with myself or anyone who helped me. And that's not fun. You shouldn't be thinking about anything but how lovely everything turned out and what a good time you are having. That's what hiring professionals will get you...and that's worth a lot.

So, please don't rule out a florist until to talk to one. Of course, first make sure that they are an established and experienced business but then give them your specifics and see what they can offer. You'll be surprised at what they can do on even the smallest of budgets.

And if you really want to be a DIY bride... consider doing your own favors, placecards, menu cards &/or table names. All of those touches will impart your own special personality and will keep your hands more than busy.

As always...remember to breathe :)

You're Going To Be A Mrs.! Now What?

2011-01-11T17:03:00.000-08:00

So he popped the question! Fabulous! Now what?

Well, first, take a deep breath. Do not give into panic or anxiety. Planning a wedding should be enjoyable!

It's just a matter of taking it one step at a time.

Here are a few of the first steps on your way to a successful wedding:

~Announce your engagement to those "in the know".

~Discuss the budget with anyone contributing.

~Draw up a draft guest list. This way you'll know the size of the venue you'll be searching for. Feel free to implement an "A" and "B" list. The "A" list would be those people that you can't imagine your day without. List "B" would be those people you like but...aren't exactly VIP's.

After you finish these tasks, STOP. Decide whether or not you'd like to hire a wedding coordinator. This would be the ideal time in the planning process to hire a pro to help you coordinate the rest of the details. They will take your hand and lead you the rest of the way. Keep in mind that a coordinator will play many roles. They will be a friend, a sounding board, a voice of reason, a mediator and organizer. Of course, I can't speak highly enough of their services (a little shameless self-promotion) but honestly, they can be a sanity saver!

If you opt to not hire a coordinator, you'll be fine (perhaps just a bit more frazzled but fine just the same :). You'll want to get started on venue hunting after you have the basics above figured out. The rest of your details will fall into place once you have this vital piece decided on.

But above all, remember to breathe, to laugh & keep in mind that even if you hit road blocks (which you will- it's Murphy's Law) you're a blessed gal who's got her hunny standing next to her, ready to share his life with you. And that's the reason why you're throwing this shindig in the first place!

Congrats, To-Be-Mrs.!

**Photo thanks to Mike Steelman Photographers. This particular shot was a surprise engagement at the ever gorgeous Pebble Beach. How adorable is it that our groom-to-be hired a photographer to capture such a special moment. What a lucky girl!

Ho Ho Ho!

2010-12-25T13:23:00.000-08:00

The thing about Monterey is that we don't get much snow. Okay, let me rephrase that, we never get any snow. However, that doesn't stop me from loving winter weddings. Here's just a little holiday inspiration for your Christmas afternoon.

And, in the holiday spirit, a little Dr. Suess.

"And the Grinch, with his Grinch-feet ice cold in the snow, stood puzzling and puzzling, how could it be so? It came without ribbons. It came without tags. It came without packages, boxes or bags. And he puzzled and puzzled 'till his puzzler was sore. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn't before. What if Christmas, he thought, doesn't come from a store. What if Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more."

Merry Christmas, y'all!

Homer Would Be Proud

2010-10-14T18:33:00.000-07:00

Instead of the ever-present candy station what about an espresso and doughnut station? It'll give your guests a nice little shot of caffeine and sugar to keep the dancing going all night long. Plus, can you really get any better than doughnuts? Not really.
Mmmm, doughnuts.

Sparkly!

2010-10-12T21:52:00.000-07:00

Love, you say? Love is a Tacori engagement ring. At least... that's what I love. But, to be honest, diamonds in general are a good thing. I'm sure Martha Stewart would agree.

Sweet Succulents!

2010-09-15T12:47:00.000-07:00

Succulents... I mean, really. Can you get any better? No, no you can't. Not really.

I want to take this wreath and place it on a table and put a plethora (didn't see that word coming, did ya ;) of white candles inside of it. They are simple but beautiful. Current obsession right there. You're welcome.

Music Makes It

2010-08-29T21:17:00.000-07:00

How cute is this first dance on the basketball court?

The wedding from this weekend was held at a private residence in Carmel Valley, Ca and I can't wait to see the pictures. But, in the meantime, I'll share a little bit about the musical aspect of the event since it was such a huge part of the entire evening.

Our bride and groom are quite a pair of music buffs and that fact was evident throughout the event. Their table names were named after some of their favorite bands such as Creedence Clearwater Revival, The Kooks and Johnny Cash.

Their first dance was to a bootleg version of the Bob Dylan song "If Not For You". If you haven't heard it before, go look it up. It's been stuck in my head all day! Their dance was later followed by a fabulous Mick Jagger impression by the typically introverted groom. A truly memorable moment in their wedding!

Honestly, their wedding had the best music out of any wedding I've ever done. Some Rolling Stones, Prince, Sam Cooke, Marvin Gaye, The Temptations... I was (quietly) singing along the whole time. It was just all such great music! Many thanks to our awesome D.J. Andrea with DNA Entertainment. She rocked it!

So that's that. Hopefully I'll return soon with some more photos. Hope ya'll have a great start of the week!

Star Wars? At A Wedding? Yes.

2010-08-01T20:14:00.000-07:00

For those nerds in your life. These cuff links would make a truly awesome groomsman gift, don't you think?

*** Trooper Cuff Links ***

Sap Isn't Just From Trees...

2010-07-27T16:51:00.000-07:00

"Soul meets soul on lover's lips."

-Percy Bysshe Shelley

A little sap for your Tuesday afternoon...

Country Wedding...With A Side Of Preachin'

2010-07-09T20:28:00.000-07:00

A very key factor to a successful wedding:
Hire Vendors That You Enjoy; Equally Important: Hire Vendors Who Can Play Nice With Other Vendors

For Carrie & Tim's wedding I had I blast. Now, a large part of that was due to the fact that Carrie & Tim are an amazing couple. They are happy and in love and were focused on having fun. Enjoying their family and friends company was their top priority. How can you not have a great wedding with an attitude like that?

The other part that added to the smile plastered on my face all day (aside from the fact that, typically, that's just my m.o.) was that the group of vendors working their wedding are amazing. They were courteous, friendly and just plain happy people. Which just plain made my job so much easier and my day that much more enjoyable.

When hiring your professionals, take a moment to ask yourself, "Are they a team player or only out for themselves?" Yes, your photographer has to get the perfect shot of you as the sun is going down but the catering staff is only there till a specific time and we've got to feed your guests first. Or, yes, the time for set-up is a bit of a close call but it's all we've got to work with so...you know, deal with it. Make it work. And don't take the stress of the job out on your fellow vendors (or more horrifically, on the bride!). There is no room for prima-donnas in this business.

Your vendors are all a part of a very important puzzle. If they don't fit together, it's going to be a mess and more likely than not, will cause you or your family stress. And that is the last thing any professional wants for you on your big day.

I digress...let me get off of my soapbox...

Point is, it was a fantastic, beautiful day. Dying to hear who contributed to the success of this particular wedding? Thought so.

Venue: Holman Ranch; ph.# 831.659.2640 or info@holmanranch.com
Photographer: Unique Photography; ph.# 916.705.3107 or jeff@uniquephotography.net
Videographer: Jensen Films; ph.# 916.334.9999 or weddings@jensenfilm.com
Florist: Country Essences Flowers; ph.# 831.7224549 or linda@countryessencesflowers.com
D.J.: DNA Entertainment; ph.# 831.372.5555 or anthony@dnaent.com
Ceremony Pianist: Robert Brinzer; ph.# 408.210.8222 or robert.brinzer@gmail.com
Cake: Layer's Cakes; ph.# 831.655.1544 or tonynuovo@layerscake.com
Catering: Paradise Catering; ph.# 831.659.3417 or nancy@paradisecater.com
Pies: Gizdich Ranch; ph.# 831.722.1056 or http://www.gizdich-ranch.com/

Thanks to all of you who made Carrie & Tim's day. You rocked it.

Would You Go Hungry, Black & Blue?

2010-06-29T17:35:00.000-07:00

Music is one of those things that can deeply touch my little ol' soul. I recently stumbled across Adele's version of "To Make You Feel My Love" and it's quickly become my favorite version of the song. Her voice is almost hauntingly beautiful and the lyrics couldn't be more romantic.

"I could make you happy/ Make your dreams come true/ Nothing that I wouldn’t do/ Go to the ends of the earth for you/ To make you feel my love"

First dance material? I think so...

Pie, You Say? I Don't Mind If I Do!

2010-06-27T12:05:00.000-07:00

Ya'll...it's confession time. I love sweets. Like, I could quite possibly eat a danish for breakfast, cake for lunch and pie for dinner. However, in my love of sweets, I do have some favorites. Berry pie is one of them.

My lovely wedding last night opted to serve a small traditional cake along with several pies made at a local farm here named Gizdich Ranch in Watsonville, California. Now, most guests at a wedding are expecting a piece of cake and most aren't particularly thrilled about it. However, they know that it's par for the course when attending a wedding. You should have seen these guest's faces last night when they realized they were getting pie. There is just something about pie that brings a smile to a person's face.

Needless to say, we had left over cake. Moral of my story? Let them eat pie.

And save me a piece.

Would You?

2010-06-05T15:42:00.000-07:00

After sharing with a friend of mine that a local coordinator (whom I just adore!) spoke with me about coordinating her own wedding, he asked why she was having someone else do her wedding since she coordinates weddings for a living. My immediate response was, "because she knows how important it is". Then he asked if I would hire someone for my own wedding. Again, and immediate-without-thought-response. Hell yes. I had to add the "hell" before the "yes" because I'm that serious about it! Why? Because I want to be able to sit back, get pampered, drink champagne and enjoy my family and friends without being a basket case about whether or not the flowers have arrived yet or if the placecards are set out correctly or if my cake is actually what I ordered.
Hiring a professional ensures a stress-free (well, aside from any family issues that might cause stress- but let's be honest, that's what champagne is for!) and flawless day. So yes, I coordinate weddings but I will not be coordinating my own. Which, I think should speak volumes to those of you on the fence about whether or not to hire help. Whether it be day-of coordination or full on hand holding, it's just best to have someone who's got your back. Agreed?

Cinco!

2010-05-05T16:49:00.000-07:00

Hope you're all enjoying an ice cold margarita in honor of Cinco de Mayo. How, you ask, am I going to be able to relate drinking margaritas to weddings? Why, by suggesting a margarita bar at the reception, of course!

A couple of ideas:

~Blood Orange Margarita

~Pomegranate Margarita

~Mango Margarita

~Blue Hawaii Margarita

~Classic Margarita ('Cause you just can't improve a classic!)

Of course, it wouldn't hurt to have a tasting session prior to your big day...Enjoy!

The Art of Marriage

2010-05-04T16:49:00.000-07:00

by Wilferd A. Peterson
The little things are the big things.
It is never being too old to hold hands.
It is remembering to say "I love you" at least once a day.
It is never going to sleep angry.
It is at no time taking the other for granted;
the courtship should not end with the honeymoon.
It should continue through all the years.

It is having a mutual sense of values and common objectives.
It is standing together facing the world.
It is forming a circle of love that gathers in the whole family.

It is doing things for each other,
not in the attitude of duty or sacrifice,
but in the spirit of joy.

It is speaking words of appreciation
and demonstrating gratitude in thoughtful ways.
It is not expecting the husband to wear a halo
or the wife to have wings of an angel.
It is not looking for perfection in each other.

It is cultivating flexibility, patience,
understanding and a sense of humor.
It is having the capacity to forgive and forget.
It is giving each other an atmosphere in which each can grow.

It is finding room for the things of the spirit.
It is a common search for the good and the beautiful.
It is establishing a relationship in which the independence is equal,
dependence is mutual and the obligation is reciprocal.
It is not only marrying the right partner,
it is being the right partner.

One of my very favorite weddings had this read during their ceremony and it was one of those things in life that struck me deeply. Marriage is so much more than saying you love another person. It's all of these things in the poem.

Cheers!

Hometown Shout-Out

2010-04-16T13:19:00.000-07:00

I love the idea of having a "shout out" to your roots. Some of you may not know that I spent my formative years in Mississippi which makes me a huge fan of Southern weddings. But no matter where you're from or what your heritage is, I think it's important to give a nod to it. Whether you're from Kansas and wear sparkly red shoes under your dress or from Vermont and give maple syrup as favors, it's a cute and thoughtful touch to your big day.

No Pinching With This Rock!

2010-03-17T16:52:00.000-07:00

In honor of St. Patrick's Day. What more can I say? How about "yes, please".

Hope all of you have a happy day filled with lots of green :)

**Find this ring at www.alvr.com. Jewelery store out of New York**

Rentals Can Be Fun?!

2010-03-17T01:14:00.000-07:00

Excuse the shaky shot. There are, believe it or not, reasons I'm not a photographer. That and when all I have is coffee all day I tend to be a bit shaky ;) Anywho...

Now guys, I have to give another shout out for the outstanding vendors I worked with for the Central Coast Bridal Fair. Chic Event Design was an absolute pleasure working with. The white taffeta draping, the up-lighting and the hot pink linen were all thanks to Chic. Just like Connie, they're amazing. One thing you'll learn about me is that the people I like to work with have to be friendly, professional and genuine. They're all three. Not to mention that they have a really fun showroom in Monterey that you can go visit.

Check 'em out!

http://www.chiceventdesign.com/

831.375.1055

Sparkly Shoes

2010-03-17T00:51:00.000-07:00

Soo...I kind of have this thing. It's not a huge thing or anything it's just... I love sparkle. I think most women probably do. The thing about me loving sparkle is that if anything is sparkly or glittery or pretty... I have to touch it. You don't want to see me in a department store.

With that said, you can imagine how I felt when I found these shoes. I love Louboutin. Period. A-dore. Add a couple thousand crystals to it and I just about go into a very happy sparkle coma. Saying that I want these badly doesn't do justice to how much I really do want them.

Anyway...that's a little peek inside my girly brain. But can't you just imagine these with a gorgeous wedding gown? Ah! Love it!

Barbie Does Bridal Fair...Becomes Reality

2010-03-17T00:37:00.000-07:00

Hopefully, some of you came out to see me and some of Monterey's most amazing of wedding vendors at the Central Coast Bridal Show at the Hyatt on Sunday. It was a really fun show that I'm so happy to have been a part of.

My booth was, as one of my fellow wedding professionals said, like barbie does bridal fair. It was pink, to say the least. I was blessed to have had some wonderful people making my vision a reality.

One of those wonderful people is Connie Moore. Connie has been working with flowers for many years (I'll let her tell you how long! It's unbelievable!) and her talent shines through in everything that she does. I received so many compliments on her work that I thought that I should give a proper shout out to her and her talent.

So, brides, give her a call, shoot her an email, check her website out.

http://www.conniejmoore.com/

conniejmoore@aol.com

831.688.6698

**Check out Sarah Ward Events facebook page for more photos of the show!

Too Many Candles? What?

2010-03-17T00:23:00.000-07:00

I’m going to be short and sweet on this one. No. No, you can’t have too many candles.

Okay, fine. I guess, technically, you could. You could burn the place down with too many candles. Which...I've seen come close to happen. Oh the stories I have! But I digress. Let's just say that, within reason, you cannot have too many candles.

Candles are amazingly romantic. Not only that but…everyone looks fabulous in candlelight! Need any more reasons to add a few more candles to your tables? Didn’t think so.

On Fire!

2010-03-12T12:45:00.000-08:00

One of my very favorite quotes goes a little something like this...

"Love is friendship set on fire"

I think that's one of the best things about finding that one person for you. Not only are they your "love bunny" but they are also the person who's got your back no matter what.

Love is great and all but here's to having a honey who'll laugh at your jokes even when they're not all that funny.

Happy Friday, ya'll!

A Pondering...

2010-03-10T21:37:00.000-08:00

I love pink (if you couldn't tell from my logo) but I'm not convinced that it's completely appropriate for a wedding. Maybe appropriate is the wrong word. Fitting? Well-suited? Either way...

Here's the argument. Most weddings involve a groom. Men usually don't care too much for pink. He is the person you're marrying so should you really have a wedding built around a color he doesn't like? On the other side of the argument is...he probably doesn't care that much about the colors. He probably just wants what is going to make you happy and if it's a pink wedding...well, okay. That is why you're marrying the sweet man. And if he's really so sweet then maybe picking a color he likes too would be nice on your side?

Thoughts? Jury is out with me. I think a wedding would be perfectly lovely with pink details but... I do have girlish tendencies so I don't know that I can be a fair judge.

Happy Rolled Into A Flower

2010-03-07T22:59:00.000-08:00

These flowers just make me smile. Besides tulips, nothing says S-P-R-I-N-G quite like ranunculus.

Mad Libs? At a Wedding? Yes!

2010-03-07T22:51:00.000-08:00

I remember spending hours with my friends playing Mad Libs when I was little. We'd try to think up the most outrageous adjectives and nouns to make truly hilarious stories. Well, they were hilarious to a group of 9 year-old girls. Can't say they'd still be laugh-inducing. Eh, forget that, I'm sure they would be. I'm a sucker for cheap comedy.

So when I ran across this idea I immediately fell in love. What a great keepsake! So much better than a stuffy ole guestbook! I love taking something ordinary and turning it into something truly special. That's what your day is all about after all!

"But The Carpet Is Hideous!"

2010-03-07T22:38:00.000-08:00

Sad but true fact? Most all venues have hideous carpet. I don’t know what the deal is and who gets to choose the carpet but…it’s usually someone who has no real interior design background. Shocking, right?

Luckily, there is a bright spot amidst all the terribly outdated color combos. Once your tables & dance floor are down, you’re barely going to be able to see the maroon paisley design on the carpet. Promise. Just focus on the walls and the lighting. The carpet is the least of your worries. Flourescent lighting is a much bigger foe. However, even that can be solved. If the location fits your specifications and you like the staff, book it! Those are two of the most important factors of your venue choice. A little ugly carpet shouldn't stop you from having the wedding of your dreams at an otherwise perfect venue!

A Kiss

2010-03-05T23:34:00.000-08:00

"A kiss is a lovely trick designed by nature to stop speech when words become superfluous."
-Ingrid Bergman

True words spoken by Casablanca's leading lady. Here's hoping that all of you are lucky enough to receive some of nature's lovely tricks. Words can be highly overrated!

A Little Taste of Wonderful

2010-03-02T13:34:00.000-08:00

Current obsession/craving/addiction...french macaroons. I had my first of these tasty little morsels while down in L.A. a few months ago and since then I've been on the hunt. Colorful, delicate, delicious...what more could you want? What's even better... I think they make adorable wedding favors. Tres chic!

Now, if only I had the patience to bake these for myself...sigh.

Why Hire a Wedding Planner?

2010-03-02T13:09:00.000-08:00

We’ve all been there. We’ve all planned an event before. Whether it was hosting Thanksgiving for your entire family or a simple dinner party for your closest of friends. It’s stressful, right? You spend weeks planning the menu, picking the perfect wine pairings and selecting just the right centerpieces & décor. You’re trying to live up to your guests expectations all while trying not to completely throw your budget out the window.

On the day of your event you’re running around like a mad person making sure that everything is just right. Timing has to be perfect on all of your specially picked recipes. Your house has to be immaculately cleaned with candles lit and music on. Oh, and then there’s you. Time for getting dressed and ready? Sure. No problem. Ha! If you’re like me you barely get your hair under control and only the most essential of make-up on before guests are there.

Once your guests arrive your mind is in a million different places. “Does everyone have a drink? Are we going to have enough ice for the night? Shoot, I need to take the potatoes out of the oven. Did I put hand towels in the bathroom?”. And somewhere among all of this insanity you hopefully have a chance to enjoy your friends and family. Even in the midst of the event your mind is elsewhere. It’s thinking about whether or not the meat was overcooked. If it was, did anyone notice? Did everyone enjoy themselves? Was the music okay? Of course my head is also usually thinking, “Oh-dear-god, I don’t even want to think about the kitchen!”. Stressful? Yes. Fun? Sure. But next time you are definitely having another family member of yours host Thanksgiving.

Now, I just gave an example of a simple at-home party. Let’s think about a wedding. It’s all of the above plus crazy/intense emotions, much more family input and oodles more money on the line. The question isn’t whether or not you can plan your own wedding. Of course you can. The question is whether or not you’re going to be able to enjoy it to the fullest if you’re having to attend to every little detail. Boutonnières didn’t arrive with the bouquets? Somebody is going to have to call the florist. Your Uncle Bill ended up bringing his girlfriend even though he didn’t r.s.v.p for her? Someone is going to have to make a last minute table adjustment in order to fit her at the table. The d.j. can’t get your montage video to work and needs a different format. Luckily, he can just use your laptop. Is it in the car? Who’s going to go have the valet bring it ‘round and take it to the d.j.? The cake is late? Oh boy. Along with all the other emotions that are pumping through you, you don’t want to have to worry about why the darn cake is late and if it’s going to actually show up. Meanwhile, you’re supposed to be getting into your dress and getting ready to take pictures.

The point is that your wedding day is about joining your life with the one you love. It shouldn’t be about stress. It shouldn’t be a day filled with you or your family having to take care of those little things that will inevitably pop up. Let someone else handle that for you, someone who has dealt with all the craziness that weddings entail. This way you can sit back, get pampered, drink a little champagne, enjoy those closest to you and most importantly…focus on marrying your love.

Allowing a professional to come in to hold your hand through such a monumental day is just a step in making sure that your day is magical and flawless. Not that you couldn’t totally pull it off yourself but this way you actually get to enjoy it. After all, what’s the point if you don’t even get to enjoy your day?