Pink & Purple Modern Elegant Wedding
Wednesday, February 1, 2012 in Classic 8 comments by Lauren Grove

I think there’s just something so nice about a modern and elegant wedding. It’s such a timeless style and always absolutely beautiful. Well, this wedding that I have for you all today from Cory Ryan Photography is just that and more. A modern elegance, using bright colors of pink and purple… it’s pretty amazing if you ask me! The gorgeous bride, Laura, is sharing her wedding planning insight with us too, so be on the lookout for her interview answers! :)

What (or who) helped you most in your planning process and/or on your wedding day?

I planned the whole wedding by myself without a planner and loved every minute of it! My best friends helped and then also being in the wedding industry as a Cupcake Company I had a good idea of what i wanted as soon as I started planning. We really lucked out and pretty much went with the 1st vendor we met in each category.

What was the most important thing to you when deciding who to work with for your wedding?

It was important that we had the same vision. I wanted the wedding to be a big fun celebration! My husband and I dated for 7 years before getting ready so by the time it happened we just wanted as fun a night as possible.  We picked vendors who knew how to capture a good party and make it as FUN as possible.

Did any of your vendors do anything special for you before, on, or after your wedding day that you would like to share?

 Yes. My photographer made an incredible album and then when we picked it up she also made a christmas ornament out of some of our favorite pics

What was your favorite thing about your wedding?

My favorite thing about my wedding was the venue. We had the ceremony, reception and a late night dance party there. One World Theater was an amazing place that kept getting transformed through the night. We had our ceremony outside overlooking the hill country at sunset. Then there was a cocatail hour upstairs in the theater with cool lighting a bar and passed apps. Then we all went back downstairs and the Celebration Hall was set up for the reception with tables, buffet, cake and cupcakes set out. Then under the tent was a Black and WHite checker dance floor with white hanging chinese lanterns. THe tables all had large colorful center pieces with giant ostrich feathers. Absoulute stunning. THen we had a fake exit for all the family and then we went back up to the theater that had been transformed into a club with dj and lights and danced til 2in the morning. The BEST part was at the late night we had 20,000 Napkins to throw up in the air to make it rain. We had done this at the clubs in miami for my bachelorette party and i knew it was a must to make our late night dance party like the clubs in Miami…total Success!!!

What is your best piece of advice for other brides?

Don’t stress out. Make it fun! It should be an exciting happy time and event to plan. If you’re stressing out you don’t have the right mindset…remember that its a party to celebrate you and your new life!

And of course I had to end the post with a photo of a delicious looking cupcake- which now means I will be wanting a cupcake all day. ;) A big thank you to Laura for sharing her wedding insight with us, and to Cory Ryan Photography for sharing the gorgeous photos too!

 

I think my favorite thing about this whole wedding is all of the gorgeous florals! The black paired with all of the brighter colors brings in that modern style really well too. So what do you all think of this modern elegant wedding? Do you love the bright colors and the style of everything? Any of you planning a modern, elegant wedding too? :)

 

Vendors who made it all happen…

Photographer: Cory Ryan Photography / Reception Venue: One World Theater / Flowers & Decor: Exquisite Petals / Catering: Word of Mouth Catering / Cake Baker: L's Cupcake Delivery / Band: The Grooves / DJ: DJ Rich / Hairstylist: Mirror Mirror / Bridal Salon: Blush Bridal Lounge
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8 comments

  • Elaine:

    February 1, 2012 8:14 am

    OMG! love all about this wedding...her dress, the flowers, bridesmaid dresses:X BEAUTIFUL :X

  • Stacie:

    February 1, 2012 2:09 pm

    This wedding is gorgeous. Where are the brides shoes from?

  • Adventures in Dressmaking:

    February 1, 2012 4:07 pm

    Wow, that dress is AMAZING! And the colors of those flowers are so bright and beautiful. This whole thing is just a visual treat!

  • Kelsey:

    February 1, 2012 6:06 pm

    WOW I have never been so obsessed with flowers....those are absolutely incredible!! Love everything about this wedding. And I would love to know where she got her shoes too!!

  • Michelle:

    February 1, 2012 7:36 pm

    Beautiful!! Where did she get her shoes and who is the designer??

  • jackiefo:

    February 2, 2012 7:54 am

    Gorgeous! I love her dress SO much...that belt is amazing

  • Cory Ryan:

    February 2, 2012 8:57 pm

    Thank you for featuring this wedding! Laura & Ryan were a blast to work with, and I loved their vision as much as you did. :) This couple has impeccable taste, and I'm so lucky to have had the opportunity to photograph their big day!

  • laura Vinson:

    February 3, 2012 12:36 am

    thank you so much for featuring my wedding! and for those asking The Shoes are Kate Spade :)
Aqua & Blue Ombre Inspiration Shoot
Tuesday, January 31, 2012 in inspiration 9 comments by Lauren Grove

How about an nice dose of ombre inspiration this afternoon? If you didn’t already know (which if you’re on Pinterest, I’m sure you did), ombre is a big design trend this year. In case you’re not familiar with ombre, it’s using a color, and displaying it in a way that goes from a light to dark spectrum of that color. I think it’s pretty cool, so when Valerie of Sapphire Events NOLA sent this inspiration shoot over, I just knew I wanted to share it!

From Valerie: “I wanted to illustrate the various ways a bride can incorporate this trend into her day.  Everything from linens, florals, and attire, to the favors, guestbook, and signature cocktail, the possibilities are endless.”

What awesome inspiration for how to incorporate ombre into all elements of the wedding! I think my favorite detail is all of the votives- it’s a small element, but still has a big effect. A big thank you to Sapphire Events NOLA and all of the other fabulous vendors who put this inspiration shoot together!

So lovely ELDers, what do you all think of the ombre look? Are any of you planning on incorporating it for your own weddings?

 

Vendors who made it all happen…

Photographer: Arte de Vie / Reception Venue: The Chicory / Wedding Planner/Coordinator: Sapphire Events NOLA / Flowers & Decor: Bee’s Wedding and Event Designs / Bridal Salon: Wedding Belles / Bride’s Dress: Valencia with Modern Trousseau by Amy Kuschel, sash by Waverly / Bridesmaid Dresses: Lela Rose LR142 / Groom’s Attire: John’s Tuxedos / Cinematography: Studio Vieux Carre / Candles: Luminous Events of New Orleans / Invitations & Stationery: Lauren Alsop Custom Paper Goods / Cake Baker: The Sweet Life Bakery / Hair & Makeup: Aristocat Salon + Nail Spa / Favors: Oak Avenue Collection / Rentals: Bee’s Wedding and Event Designs
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9 comments

  • Jillian {MOSS Floral}:

    January 31, 2012 2:13 pm

    Love an ombre detail!! Such an elegant and fun way to bring on the color!!

  • Lauren -southern aisle:

    January 31, 2012 2:18 pm

    Amazing, gorgeous tablescape and bouquet!

  • kirbi:

    January 31, 2012 2:42 pm

    This is so inspiring! Great job design team!!

  • Megan [Glamour and Grace]:

    January 31, 2012 2:45 pm

    Love the ombre votives around the cake! What a great idea!

  • The Perfect Palette:

    January 31, 2012 3:41 pm

    What a striking color palette. Inspiring!

  • Phototerra Wedding Photographer:

    January 31, 2012 10:21 pm

    Love this. I think it's a realistic look that most brides can have. Love the blues - it's so refreshing. Thanks!

  • Kathy:

    February 1, 2012 4:24 am

    Fantastic color palette!!

  • Shang:

    February 1, 2012 4:17 pm

    I love this so much! I'm so obsessed with ombre

  • Jenna Stratman:

    February 2, 2012 10:19 pm

    Stunning details!! Ombre is such a gorgeous theme!
Tuesday Tips: Make Your Ceremony Your Own
Tuesday, January 31, 2012 in Almost Down The Aisle 4 comments by Kristine

In my opinion, one of the toughest things to do when planning your wedding is figuring out what to include in your ceremony. Who says what when? What is required in order to be legally married? When in the world do you say your vows, exchange the rings, light the candles? Most brides and grooms, at least most brides and grooms I’ve come across {including myself}, tend to think there’s some kind of formula you have to follow. And while it’s helpful to know what’s usually done, your ceremony should ultimately be a reflection of who you are as a couple. Include elements that are significant to you. Follow the traditions that mean something to you. In essence, make your ceremony your own.

Photo via Captured by Jenny

Choose meaningful music

You can walk down the aisle to whatever you want so choose a song that you’ll remember for years to come. Likewise, play songs that mean something to you and your partner during the prelude, the processional of the wedding party, and the recessional. My husband and I wanted to do something fun and unexpected when we walked back down the aisle so we chose California Girls by The Beach Boys. Our guests loved it.

Photo via Elizabeth Scott Photography

Include and honor your loved ones

You can do this by the traditional Lighting of the Candles {typically done by the mothers} or by presenting flowers or tokens of appreciation to your parents. Or you can do something entirely different. Light candles in remembrance of loved ones, dedicate a reading, ask your families to stand to give their Declaration of Intent {including them in the task of upholding your marriage as well}.

Photo via Meg Sexton Photography

Write your own vows

Either ditch the traditional vows altogether and write your own or recite the traditional vows and include a personal statement while exchanging rings. I go back and forth on this one. There’s something very sacred, and romantic, about repeating the same words spoken by couples for centuries. But there’s also something so personal and intimate about promising to love your partner in your own words.

Photo via Rae Leytham Photography

Get creative

We all know about the unity candle. And the sand ritual. Traditionally, after reciting the vows and exchanging the rings, the bride and groom participate in a joint act symbolizing their new union. I love the significance of that! So why not get creative with it? Any suggestions?

………………

Former brides, how did you make your ceremony personal to you and your groom? Brides-to-be, are you including any fun and unique elements of your own? Share in the comments! I’d love to hear.

xo-Kristine

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4 comments

  • Dara:

    January 31, 2012 9:08 am

    These tips are right on time! I have started to think about what to include in my ceremony and how my fiance and i want to make it personal and not just cookie-cutter and like everyone Else's. I think we will do the traditional vows then include a personal statement at the end of our vows. I look forward to seeing the other comments/thoughts posted!

  • Courtney:

    January 31, 2012 4:12 pm

    these are great tips. i love to witness a ceremony that is truly unique to the couple.

  • Katie:

    January 31, 2012 5:22 pm

    We were thinking instead of sand to pour dirt from our childhood backyards. One of us is from the north with dark dirt and the other is from the south with red clay. Thoughts?

  • Kristine:

    February 1, 2012 11:28 am

    Hi Katie! I love your idea to combine dirt from your childhood backyards. It's so symbolic of joining your pasts, your histories, and your traditions, and moving forward into the future together. And I would make sure to let your guests know what you're doing as I'm sure they'd all appreciate the meaning behind it as well! Thanks for sharing! xo
Vendor of the Week: Sweet November Events
Tuesday, January 31, 2012 in SPONSORS 0 comments by Lauren Grove

This week’s Vendor of the Week, Erica of Sweet November Events, might possibly be one of the sweetest ladies that I know- no pun intended! Let’s learn a little bit about this fabulous wedding planner based in Charlotte, North Carolina, shall we?

Why do you see yourself as being Modern, Vintage, Classic, or Eclectic?

I fall more into the modern/classic camp personally but pride myself on being able to help my clients bring their wedding vision to life regardless of their style. Whether they are having a traditional garden party, a multi-cultural celebration, or an eclectic affair that includes a carnival for their younger guests, I can really help them do whatever they envision- or some version of it- while maintaining their budget.

What is your favorite wedding detail you’ve ever seen or created?

Something I’ve done for a few couples that they have LOVED is surprised them with extra decor & details at their seats or sweetheart table. A big favorite has been a framed photo of their dog(s) so when they sit down they have a little reminder of their furry friend! Another favorite was when I used an old window as a ceremony program. The bride didn’t want traditional paper programs but liked the idea of having something that showed guests who was in the bridal party, etc. so I used scrapbook paper to back the windows & chalk markers and sharpies to write the info.

What is your favorite store or brand?

Kate Spade is my very favorite brand! But as far as everyday shopping, I spend a LOT of time and money at Target, Hobby Lobby, IKEA, and HomeGoods!

What advice do you have for a newly engaged bride?

To try to enjoy the planning process (and obviously hiring a planner is a great place to start!) and learn to “let go” of some of the little things to make your life easier. For example, I had a bride who was very specific about the vision she had & her mother didn’t always agree with what she wanted, but the cake was extremely important to the MoB so the bride basically let her mom handle the cake design, style, etc. as long as it “fit” (which it did). Mom & bride were both happy with the outcome and it relieved some stress on the bride to know that mom had a hand in the decision making. I also highly recommend the occasional date night with your fiance to hang out and do anything BUT talk about wedding plans. It’s a good way to decompress & recharge from all of the planning/thinking!

What is your favorite thing about weddings?

Watching the bride & groom enjoy their wedding and reception and knowing that I had a hand in making it happen and making sure it’s stress free!

What qualities do you possess that enable you to work well with brides and grooms?

I’m extremely outgoing and tend to make friends with all of my clients! I feel that clients who are a good fit for me trust me, my opinions, and my expertise and therefore are more relaxed throughout the process.

What steps do you take to ensure that your clients will have amazing wedding days when working with you?

Initially I do this by recommending & referring the best vendors for my clients’ budget, style & personality. I make sure to go over a detailed timeline with them and answer as many questions/concerns that they have before the wedding day so they don’t have to think about all the little things and what happens when, etc. I always try to fix any potential issues/problems that pop up without them even finding out about them and do my best to make sure that, in addition to the couple, that VIPs (parents, grandparents, bridal party, etc.) is happy & comfortable throughout the day!

I hope you all love Sweet November Events as much as I do! PS- Kate Spade is one of my favorite brands too! Be sure to go check out the Sweet November Events ELV listing to see more of their work!

 

Sweet November Events

email: erica@sweetnovemberevents.com | phone: 704.692.4934 | website: http://www.sweetnovemberevents.com
twitter: Follow @SweetNovEvents | facebook: “Like” Sweet November Events!

location: Charlotte, North Carolina | type: Event Planning | style: Classic, Eclectic, Modern | price: $$

 

"Sweet November Events" is a preferred vendor in Every Last Vendor.
To learn more about Every Last Vendor, click here.
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