Sea Breeze Dreamy Wedding

A few of my favorite things:

-Sea Glass

-Floral Crowns

-Navy Blue

-Watercolor

-Bohemian Style

And that's why next week's wedding is going to be one of my favorites ever. Throw in a kick-ass bride and all of my favorite vendors...and I'm a super happy girl this week.

Cheers, my lovelies!

What Is Love?

This will be one of the most personal posts I'll probably ever write for my professional blog. However, my profession, my career, my business is so closely tied to my heart and this issue is one that speaks directly to said heart. If there ever were a reason for me to get really real with y'all, it's this. Be forewarned...

As some of you know, I was born in California but spent my most formative years in Mississippi. Those years spent in the Magnolia State taught me Southern hospitality, how to carry myself with grace, how to cook chicken and dumplin's, bake a mean blackberry cobbler and most importantly, I was introduced to my faith.

That faith has seen me through all of life's ups and downs. It's taught me what love truly is. Taught me that the most important thing in life is love. To show it, to be it. For that reason, I am finding myself having a very difficult time seeing the reaction I've seen from some people. God LOVES us, wants to give us the desires of our hearts, wants us to be fulfilled and to know for ourselves the love He has for us. I will never accept that He desires us to fall in love with someone and for that love to be a sin. That's not a loving God.

This post was prompted by seeing one too many posts about "Sodom and Gomorrah all over again" or "Jesus, take me now" or "End of days is here!" or "Time for another Civil War". I urge my friends whom I share this beautiful faith with to act with grace on social media. Hell, act with grace anyway, but PLEASE, especially on social media. You do so much harm to our faith by spewing comments like those above.

And because clearly I haven't used the word "love" enough in this post:
"Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins." - 1 Peter 4:8

Now let's plan some weddings!!

Kate Spade Inspires Wedding Deliciousness

It's officially summer! And you know what that means? It's WEDDING SEASON! In honor of all of those June weddings out there here is a little inspiration I gained from one too many Kate Spade drool sessions...

A black and white affair with pops of green apple, turquoise/teal, hot pink and blush. Details of gold sparkle, black and white polka dots and stripes. Overall feel should be fun and lighthearted

...just like the couple who would chose such a fun-loving theme!

Cheers, wedding goers! Hope it's a wonderful wedding season for you all!

Love List: Culinary Institute of America St. Helena

Hey lovelies! Ready for another amazing venue?

Every once in a while you have the honor of being able to work with one of your dear friends for one of the most important days in their lives. September 14th was one of those days for me. My lovely friend Tiffany married her long-time love Mike in the beautifully quaint town of St. Helena. And when I say quaint I mean two lane, tree lined streets, mom & pop boutiques, vineyards everywhere you look and a general small town feel. It's one of my happy places. You can't get much more picturesque than this place.

Mike & Tiffany's venue was the Culinary Institute of America or otherwise known as the CIA. The moment I saw this place I fell in love. Imagine a castle-like building rising out of the hills of wine country, surrounded by views of vineyards and those famous California hills strewn with oak trees. And there you have the CIA. The original building was a co-op winery built in the 1880's and since has been transformed to provide culinary education, from dining to demonstrations, professional courses and of course, hosting events.

The experience with the venue was over-the-top from the beginning. Our catering manager, Samantha Chavez was knowledgeable, gracious and professional. Mike & Tiffany came in to their menu tasting session with some basic ideas (likes, dislikes, etc.) and with that their culinary team made one of the best and most personalized menus I've ever seen! Uh, hello Bloody Mary Shrimp Shooters!

 

I'm going to let the rest of it speak for itself...

 

 

Culinary Institute of America, St. Helena

Max Capacity Inside: 350

Max Capacity Outside: 200

Contact: Samantha Chavez; s_chavez@culinary.edu; 707-967-2349

 

 

Oh, and because we worked with such wonderful vendors for this wedding let me sing their praises, too!

Florist: Connie Moore Floral

Hair: Atelier Salon

Photographer: Ken Pfeifer & Meghan Roberts

Rentals/Lighting: Blueprint Studios, Classic Party Rentals, Twilight Design

Videographer: Mark Peters

 

 Hope you all enjoy this foodie heaven as much as I did! xoxo

These Are A Few Of My Favorite Things...

Winter weddings are not something I am lucky enough to plan living in coastal California as I do. A  cold, wet beach isn't the ideal. This fact does not keep me from dreaming of a white wedding though! So here are a few of my favorite things about a winter wedding...

1. Sparkle seems to be that much sparklier (yes, sparklier is a word!)

 

2. Feathers & fur are totally appropriate.

 

 

3. Texture, texture, texture. Cable knit, wool, cashmere and houndstooth...to name a few.

 

4. Winter brings warm feelings. Cozy up next to a fire, sip hot chocolate and get close to those you love most. It just makes sense to throw a wedding in with all these good feelings, right?

 

5. Snow. It's magical, pure and simple.

 

The vision: Nearest & dearest gathered in a cozy cabin-esque venue complete with wood burning fireplace and a view of the snow falling outside. Candles everywhere. A menu with comfort foods and decadent desserts. Can't forget after dinner drinks of Hot Toddys and Irish Coffee. Kissing under mistletoe. Romance through and through.

And have I mentioned...I travel??? Coastal California can't hold me back! So let's get on this snow covered, romance- filled wedding, shall we? Dare to be different, lovelies. Summer weddings are to be expected. Throw a fete to get your friends and family through a long, dreary winter! 

Oh, and be sure to follow my Winter Weddings board on Pinterest for more inspiration!

You're On My List, "Love" List: Tehama

Wedding season had a hold on me! Whoa. But I'm back, sanity still in hand (always a daunting task for a spring/summer/fall filled with wedding after wedding!) and I'm ready to show a little love to my blog.

Goal for this year? To share with you some of my favorite venues. There are so many dazzling jewels in California and I'm taking it upon myself to share a few of my favorites with all of you.

For my first "love list" location we have...

Tehama Golf Club

Now, let me just tell ya'll that I am biased. Typically you give me a choice between golden hills laden with oak trees or an oceanside deck and I'll choose the hills. Just something about being around those vistas that make my country girl's heart very happy. Tehama is extra special in this sense. Not only do you have those gorgeous golden hills and oak trees dripping with moss but you also have a view of the entire Monterey Bay that is just to die for. To. Die. For!

  

I have so many brides that are against a hotel-feel or a golf-course-feel and guys, this location is perfect for those of you who fit in that description. Yes, it is a golf club. But no, it does not feel like one. Your drive on to the property is magical. Winding roads through old oak trees, deer romping through the forest...you might even see a wild turkey or... ten. You then make your way up to the clubhouse where you immediately are greeted by the quintessential Spanish revival style that is so well known in California. The space is warm and welcoming while also perfectly executing a feeling of sophistication and luxury.

 

 

What sets a property aside from others, to me, is their staff. Tehama has what can sometimes be hard to find...true professionals. Staff that go above and beyond to make your day perfect. That right there is what makes me give my stamp of approval. Add the stunning views and delicious food...I'm sold.

 

 

So here are some of their specifics...

 

Maximum Capacity: 200 Guests (180 With Dance Floor); Capacity would be increased if tent rented for outside patio.

Available Times: 5:30pm - 12:00am (With Entertainment Ending at 11:30pm)

Maximum Event Time: 6 Hours

Included: Tables, Chairs, China, Glassware, Silverware and Votive Candles

Also: Four (gorgeous!) suites on-site that are available for an additional fee.

Contact: Cheryl Fournier, 831-622-2223, cheryl@tgcmail.net, www.tehamagolfclub.com

 

Tehama is a very special venue that you have to see to truly appreciate!

 

Stay tuned for more of my "love list"! xoxo...



What Is This? Barnum & Bailey's?

 

Let's have some real talk, shall we? This whole wedding thing can feel a bit like a circus, right? You meet the guy, fall in love, feel those butterflies and before you know it there is a beautiful ring on your finger and the promise of a wonderful life together. Bring on the wedding planning!

Enter the reality. Who knew your parents would invite so many people! And what's your future-mother-in-law's deal about insisting that you have a cake? You and your honey would rather do a tasty dessert bar! Where were all of these opinions when you were just dating?

I have a theory. Once that ring goes on your finger people go a little...crazy. Emotion does funny things and unfortunately, you and your fiance are the ones feeling the brunt of the crazy train. Add in the cost of a wedding and it's enough to make you want to throw in the towel.

Don't fret. Take a few deep breaths and read on...

A few golden rules for planning your perfect day:
1. It's Okay To Say "No". You don't want cake? Say no to the cake. You don't like the color bridesmaid dress your maid of honor picked? Say no to the dress. You don't know a majority of the guests your parents have added to the invite list? Say no. Now, I'm not endorsing bridezilla mode. I grew up in Mississippi and learned the fine art of southern hospitality. This means declining offers with grace. "No" and "Thank You" should always be paired together and topped off with a sweet smile. Take charge of your own wedding...with graciousness, of course.

2. Feeling Like A Three-Ring Circus? Take a step back. Prioritize. What is really important? Hopefully #1 on your list is making a very serious and life-long commitment to the one you love. After that I'm sure you want your family and friends to have the time of their lives. What about eloping? Get a gorgeous vacation rental and bring only the closest of your circle. Spend a week connecting and making memories. Circus feeling? Extinguished.

3. Shameless Plug...Hire Professionals! I read a horrible article recently that urged brides to use silk flowers and to lie to their vendors about what the event really was (don't say "wedding", say "party"). The real trick is to hire professionals who take pride in what they do! Who are pillars of integrity. Whose passion in life is to create a dream day for you. Yes, it's going to cost a little more. I say "a little" because really, DIY can cost just as much once all is said and done...not to mention the stress you put yourself through. "You get what you pay for" is, unfortunately, too true. And hiring someone to watch out for you, which is my job, is worth its weight in gold. We become your champion...which can be missing sometimes in this process.

Basically? Keep your eye on the prize, don't get trampled on by friends, family or vendors and hire professionals. Simple right? No? Well, that's what I'm here for.

Happy Monday, beauties!

Collage Creds: Carmel Valley Ranch guest room, Bouquet & Floral Crown by Connie Moore, Fondly Forever Photography, Carmel State Beach, Cypress Inn, Mike Steelman Photographers

Cupid Got Me!

 

 

Valentine's Day. I've got a serious love-hate relationship with the day. On one side you've got love, romance, red, pink, glitter, gold, champagne and chocolate. On the other side you have prepackaged, Hallmark style love, pressure, cheesiness and a feeling of "not quite sincere". But, for the sake of pretty style boards, let's be glass-half-full people today, shall we?

 

A Valentine's Day wedding would be a little tricky. You don't want to go too literal with it and beat your guests over the head with hearts and arrows but on the same token you've got to give a few nods to that little cupid dude.

 

Today's board is working off the inspiration of those beautiful vintage Valentine's. Think muted reds and pinks with cream and burnished gold. Walk down the aisle in a dress reminiscent of the early 20th century (check out this gorgeous little pretty at BHLDN) to keep with the vintage feel. Top that pretty little head of yours with a sparkly headband (also BHLDN) to finish the look.

 

Catch Phrases To Plan By: Airy, Romantic (Duh, right?), Muted Reds and Pinks, Cream, Burnished Gold, Hearts, Feathers, Touches of Glitter, Bohemia, 1910-1920 inspired (which we can probably blame on my current obsession with Downton Abbey. Anyone with me?).

 

General idea...take what we all think of as the generic, over-produced Valentine's Day and tone it down. Hint at Valentine's Day. Don't exclaim it.

 

Now where's my chocolate?

St. Germain Goodness

 

If you haven't tried St. Germain yet I highly suggest you finding a bar and ordering a delicious cocktail with this liquor post-haste!

The liquor itself is made from Elderflowers and, as aptly described by St. Germain themselves, is neither passion fruit nor pear, neither grapefruit nor lemon but hints at each of them and yet none of them exactly. I describe it as being sweet but not sweet. Floral but not. It's the most wonderful oxymoron that one could drink. And that's really the only way I know how to put it.

Plus side? It's the perfect base for any signature cocktail. The color is similar to a very light sauvignon blanc so you could go any direction with the color. Add fresh fruit, rose petals, pansies, lemon twists, mint sprigs...the list goes on. Check out the official website for more recipes & ideas: St. Germain

Tis' The Season

It's that time of year again. No, not the holiday season. Okay, well I guess it is but what I'm referring to is engagement season! Most proposals happen between Thanksgiving and the New Year (with more than just a few popping up for Valentine's Day). In the spirit of the season I thought to give some helpful tips to some of my future grooms...

1. Capture It! The sad truth is the human brain is like a sieve. Remember the day you first met your lovely lady? Sure. But do you remember each and every detail of that fateful day? Chances are, no. Your engagement is a huge moment for both of you so why not ensure you can remember it forever? Now, not everyone can afford a professional photographer. I know that. However, everyone has someone they know who'd be down to play creeper for a day and hide behind a bush to get the big moment on film. Trust me, your girl is going to be over-the-moon. Not only to marry you but also to find that memory captured forever. **For those of you who can afford to hire a photographer, check out one of my favorites. He loves hiding in bushes. Wait...you know what I mean ;) Mike Steelman Photographers

2. Generic = No! When you say "proposal" most people get certain images in their heads. Candlelit dinner. Fancy restaurant. Guy pulls out the ring and gets on one knee. Woman puts her hands over her mouth in surprise, says "Yes!". They hug and kiss. Bam. Cue the applause. Here's a secret, my dudes. Every girl wants to be special. In her every day life, she wants to be special. So what makes the proposal any different. Think outside of the box. No woman wants to feel as if you dialed the day she'd dreamed of in. **Check out this video which is a perfect example of non-generic! Surprise Proposal To Bruno Mars' "Marry You"

3. Consult Those Who Know Her Best. Let's take a moment to be real, shall we? There is a very good reason why there is a book out there called Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus. We're different. And not just in the obvious sense. No, no. Something that you might see as being a totally rad idea might not be what she's always dreamed of. And that doesn't mean you didn't put the right amount of heart into it. It just means you're a guy and you can't always see what her big ol' heart desires most. She's not going to gush to you about what her ideal proposal is. But you know who she would gush to? Her girlfriends. Her mom. Heck, maybe even her dad. After all, he's been living on planet Venus a lot longer than you have! Don't lose the personal touches that will make this you but do touch base with the people whom she would trust with the silliest of romantic fantasies.

4. Too Much? Never! There has been an abundance of You Tube videos showing flash mobs and marching bands used to propose. To a guy you may think 'That is just too much'. Well, friend, I'm here to tell you it's not. Now, I'm not saying that you need to one-up those people on You Tube but I am saying go big. You wouldn't half-ass your relationship so don't half-ass the proposal. This doesn't mean a million roses flown in from Argentina but maybe it does mean a dozen (or two) roses in her favorite color. Maybe not candles on every single surface of the house but maybe a pathway of candles leading to the spot where you'll get down on one knee. Girls are simple. We like pretty. We like sparkle. We like flowers. We like for-thought. Add that all together and you've got yourself a successful proposal.

5. Surprise With a Capital "S"! Another thing women tend to love? Surprises. The bigger the better. A tip? Don't drop hints. We're like bloodhounds. Drop one little hint and we're figuring that ish out in two minutes flat. We hate our detective tendencies that ruin surprises but we can't help ourselves. So keep it hush hush and give her the best surprise of her life.

Above all else, just breathe. When you know, you know. So listen to that heart of yours and make the lady you can't live without yours this season.

Finally, Happy Holidays! Remember the real reason for the season...love.

xoxo

Never Fully Dressed Without...Sparkle

Bridesmaids dresses. Sigh. How can something with so much potential go so horribly awry? I'm sure most of you have at least one dress that you were asked to wear as a bridesmaid which you would never normally be seen in. Heck, you might even be convinced to burn the darn thing! I'm here to say let there be an end to the ugly or common bridesmaid dress.

More and more I'm seeing brides opt to let their girls choose their own dress in their wedding hue. Because let's face it, no one woman's body is the same. Even if you think that a certain dress is going to look fab-u on all your girls, chances are at least one of your girls won't feel entirely comfortable in your pick.

And, yes, I know. There is an irresistible need to control any and all wedding facets. I mean, after all, it is a once in a lifetime event, right? But, ladies, take a deep breath and...wait for it... just let go. As I often preach, keep sight of why you're doing this thing. It's about your marriage, not a wedding. Make that your mantra!

Anywho, my current love affair? Sparkly bridesmaid dresses. Tell your girls you want something short, sparkly and fun. Want to keep it from looking too Prom-Gone-Vegas? Opt for a neutral sparkler like this gorgeous Pronovias stunner. Love, right?

Happy Friday!

Words of Wisdom Wednesday

"How can a woman be expected to be happy with a man who insists on treating her as if she were a perfectly normal human being?" -Oscar Wilde

The man was wise, wasn't he? I'll give you a simple tip, guys. Make your lady feel special. Every day kinds of thoughtfulness can go a long way at keeping that lady of yours completely enamored with you...even while she's doing your dirty laundry.

A few slightly cheesy & cliche examples:
1.) Grab some flowers for her on your way home from work. Even if they're carnations, it's the thought that counts.
2.) Surprise her with anything. Seriously, no matter how small the surprise is it'll show that you were thinking about her. Major plus points, buddy.
3.) Take her out. Meaning, you plan something special. It's all about initiative here. You did it when you first tried to woo her so you can do it now. Keep it up, big boy.
4.) Vocalize! Don't assume she knows you love her or that you think she's beautiful. Compliments are like gold. Hand them out like candy. Golden candy.
5.) Two words. Hallmark. Cards.

I think that's a part of a successful marriage. To always keep the other feeling anything but a "normal human being".

Happy Hump Day!

Wedding Bullies

Ladies (and gents! Can't forget you!) can I offer you some unsolicited advice? When it comes to your wedding... listen to your own ideas, thoughts, wants. What do I mean exactly? It means that while, yes, you would love to hear your mother's fabulous ideas on flowers or your bridesmaid's idea of what a flower girl should wear, you should ultimately take your own desires into account.

This blog is about truth. It's not a marketing scheme. I don't write it because I think it will ultimately get me more business. I write it because a.) I love pretty things and in turn love to share said pretty things with the world and b.) believe wholeheartedly that every bride should have the best day of her life on her wedding...whether she hires me or not. And with that comes a heaping dose of honest reality.

With that said, let me elaborate on the before mentioned topic.

First, mothers. You want to please them, yes? Especially when it's your groom's mother! You want her to think you are God's gift to her sweet little boy and how better to show that than to heed all of her unwarranted wedding advice. She's a little harsh? It's okay, you can handle it. Sure. You can handle it until you look around and realize that your wedding isn't really your wedding at all. And then you're an unholy mess of a girl who is completely unhappy with her wedding. No bueno, guys!

Then there are bridesmaids. Your best gals! They would never step on your toes or hurt your feelings. That is unless they feel that your choice in bridesmaid dress is horrendous or gasp...you're not having an open bar? Unheard of! What do you mean we're not going to Vegas for the bachelorette party? I could go on but I'm pretty sure you all get the bitchy innuendo I'm trying to get across.

I'm writing this because I have some brides who are being bullied. That's what that is, plain and simple. People projecting their own wants and needs on to their friend or daughter, who's not completely emotionally stable at the time (because let's face it, emotions abound when you are engaged!). And I've had enough. I love my brides. I want each an every one of them to have the day of their dreams. I'll do my utmost to make sure that happens. The one thing I can't control are actions like the one I mentioned above.

So, closing argument is two part:

Women in each bride's life: Be kind. Be aware of your words and your actions. Know that this time is not your own. Sure, give advice (when asked) and always, always give support. Never make situations worse. The bride does not need fuel added to her fire. Use phrases like "it's all going to work out" or "we'll take care of it" or even "I LOVE everything you've chosen". Just be decent to your bride. Do not forget that she is a woman just like you.

To all of the brides out there: Know that you are worthy of having an opinion about your own wedding. Know that you can say "no"...multiple times if need be! Know that just because you don't agree with your future-mother-in-law about the seating arrangement does not make you the daughter-in-law from hell. It actually makes you a pretty cool-ass confident woman. And everybody loves confidence. You can take that to the bank.

And I shall now step off of my soap box. The end.

Chevron Obsessed

Today's obsession? Chevron. I cannot get enough of this pattern! It's chic and clean...two of my favorite things! Let's explore just how you can utilize this pattern in your fabulous fete...

1. Invites! Green Chevron on Etsy
2. Table Runners! A Twist on Black & White
3. Bridesmaid Gifts! Aqua & Coral Cosmetic Bags...Too Cute
4. Cake! Peach & Navy Deliciousness
5. Photo Backdrop! Navy & White Photo Booth

The main reason that I love this so very much is because of the possibilities. You can go uber simple with black and white or get a little more colorful with green, aqua, yellow, coral, etc. It's fun, fresh & perfect!

Happy Friday, y'all!

Making Me Blush!

A palette of blush pink paired with either white or ivory and a metallic of silver or gold? Say it with me now...romance! I'm obsessed and I don't care who knows it!

This year seems to be all about the soft touches. How are you bringing the romance to your most romantic of days?

Fingerprints!

Y'all...I've had writer's block. Hard core. Sorry for the silence. I'm gonna bet that you somehow survived though. Yes? Good.

Anywho... I'm back! And I found this super adorable alternative to a guestbook. Who really needs guests names signed in a little book that a.) you'll never look at again (unless you do so just to spite me for saying that you'll never read it ;) and b.) you can't decipher. Uncle Bill is a doctor afterall. Everyone knows you can't read their writing!

This particular poster comes from a lady from Etsy (and if you know me, you know that I love Etsy!). Find her here... Custom Silouette Wedding Poster.

Hope you all had wonderful holidays (it's been that long since I've posted) & if you're newly engaged, congratulations!

Happy Friday!

Peter, Peter...

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.

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

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...

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