Once A Bride...

We've Moved!!

noreply@blogger.com (Dana) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 20:43:00 +0000

This blog started out as a labor of love and a creative outlet for me. It started out more personal than business and as my business grew, the blog certainly went down a different path. Where I once dished about celebrities turned into a place to dish about great wedding finds. Three years later, I can say that revel & bloom has turned into an amazing business for me and I believe that the company deserves it's very own blog. With that new blog, comes two distinct voices. revel & bloom has grown! I decided to merge with another planner and we will both be contributing to the new blog. It's very exciting for both of us. Won't you join us on our new venture? Make sure to update your bookmarks and readers.

Please visit us here: http://revelandbloom.com/main/blog/

Thank you for a wonderful 3+ years on blogger!

Honeymoon style.

noreply@blogger.com (Dana) — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 23:42:00 +0000

I think these luggage tags from Wedzu seller, C'est Superbe are so adorable. My husband and I bought new luggage for our honeymoon and I wish I would have had one of these to claim our suitcases.

Fourth of July merriment.

noreply@blogger.com (Dana) — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 20:06:00 +0000

Planning a party on the fourth? Here are inspiration photos that are sure to give you some great ideas.

(source)

Yes to the dress! Princess Kate's gown.

noreply@blogger.com (Dana) — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 15:55:00 +0000

(Source)

I loved the Alexander McQueen dress that Kate Middleton (now Princess) chose for the Royal Wedding. It was elegant, modest, sophisticated and modern. She looked absolutely beautiful. As soon as I saw her, I couldn't help but draw comparisons to another Princess...

Princess Grace

(Source)

Princess Kate has made her mark as a stylish woman and I'm sure we'll see many more hits from her, but of course, this will be one for the history books.

Contracts: Read the fine print.

noreply@blogger.com (Dana) — Thu, 28 Apr 2011 15:26:00 +0000

You've found the photographer of your dreams and you're ready to book him or her.

But wait! Before you sign ANY contracts, make sure you read them very carefully. If you don't understand something, ask as many questions as possible until you do. If you have a wedding planner, that person can help you negotiate or clear up any contract items.

For example, a client who recently hired me for event management showed me their photography contract (*I changed company's and photographer's identifying information).

ABC Photography* may substitute another photographer to take the photographs in the event of Bob's* illness or of scheduling conflicts. In the event of such substitution, ABC Photography* warrants that the photographer taking the photographs shall be a competent professional.

This photographer is letting the clients know that if a 'scheduling conflict' comes up, that another photographer can be assigned to the couple. This does not sit well with me for many reasons. One being, that if Bob finds another client that is willing to pay more for that date, he can choose another photographer for my client's wedding. Perhaps this isn't what Bob has planned, but the contract item is so vague, that Bob can in fact choose which wedding to shoot at will. He can even send substitute photographers to more than one wedding. Bob explains that he will send a competent professional, but isn't that a subjective term? Sure, a photographer may be on time and able to shoot photos, but didn't you hire Bob for his creativity and artistry? What if the substitute Bob sends does not have the creative eye you are looking for?

How would you feel if the photographer you hired wasn't at your wedding?

Engagement Photos: Valerie and Justin

noreply@blogger.com (Dana) — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 01:05:00 +0000

The fantastic team at Joshua and Co. Photography took these amazing photos of Valerie and Justin who are getting married at the Manor House in July. Denver has beautiful architecture and Joshua and Co. were able to highlight some downtown spots while showcasing the love between Valerie and Justin, who met while both teaching at the same school. I have absolutely loved working with them and I can't wait for the wedding.

You're engaged!!

noreply@blogger.com (Dana) — Wed, 05 Jan 2011 20:28:00 +0000

Congratulations on your exciting news!

Wedding planning should be a fun-filled, exciting adventure. However, more often than not, the planning process can overwhelm and even cause stress to the couple. Here are some tips to stay sane, have fun and enjoy the process.

When and how does all the planning begin? You're probably going to call everyone you know and tell them the good news. Then your mind will probably start wandering to your dream gown. How could it not? But--first thing's first. After you've enjoyed the first few days (or weeks) of being engaged, it's time to start the planning and determine your budget. That's right--the dreaded 'B' word. You and your fiance should decide what you are going to spend on your wedding. After you determine your budget, then you can think of the overall style and formality you want.

After your budget is determined, it's time to think about hiring a planner. A qualified wedding planner can save you money in the long run, offer amazing advice, help you find the perfect vendors and be a great tool for navigating this crazy industry.

Then, all of the above considered, you can decide on a date and location. Your date and location could affect one another. You may have a dream location in mind and someone else could have booked that venue on your wedding date. If your heart is set on a specific date, be flexible with the locale of your reception and vice-versa. Of course, the sooner you book your dream venue, the better.

With those major decisions aside, you and your planner can start researching your vendors and decide on all the details that will make your wedding vision unique. Make the planning process fun, take it one step at a time and dream of the day you will walk down the aisle toward the person of your dreams.

Choosing a wedding planner. (Recycled Post)

noreply@blogger.com (Dana) — Tue, 14 Dec 2010 16:42:00 +0000

Recently, I heard a story from a bride who had a bad experience with her wedding planner. I use the word 'bad' here lightly. I simply think it was a case of misunderstanding. The bride felt she wasn't getting what she needed from the planner. This particular wedding planner is very well established and has raving reviews. She is also extremely busy and isn't the creative type-she's all business. What this bride needed was a planner who had time to go to dress fittings, time to answer questions when family problems arose and someone who understood her creative vision and could help it come to life. Who she hired was a women who is fabulous at logistics and getting the job done quickly, but not much on the hand holding and chats.

Deciding to hire a wedding planner, or coordinator is a big decision and it's not something an engaged couple should take lightly. If you want a planner to help you through the process, more often than not, this person will be in your life for the next year or more. It's important for you to decide what type of planner you want.

Do you need someone every now and then to help you make a tough decision?
Are you the type of bride who wants your planner with you every step of the way?
Do you want someone to help mitigate the family dynamic?
Do you need someone who is all business who only sets appointments and isn't big on creativity?
Do you want your planner to also have design credentials?

With every planner comes a different personality. Don't let the planner's portfolio rule your emotions in this process. You may be interviewing a planner who designed the wedding of the year in your city, but you have to like the person who is going to help you with one of the most important days of your life. Be prepared when you meet with potential planners and ask the questions that are important to you. If you want someone to hold your hand through the process and be there for you daily, you need to let your prospective planner know that. Likewise, if you have strong opinions about what you want and you only need someone to coordinate the details, you may want an entirely different planner than another bride.

Make sure to ask the planner what their approach is when it comes to wedding planning. How often will you see her/him? Talk to her/him? Are they involved in the design or will they turn to an outside decor company? Are they good at DIY elements?

Go into the meeting with your prospective planner questioning whether you want a personal relationship with this person--after all, you will be trusting them with a once-in-a-lifetime event.

Recycle old Christmas cards.

noreply@blogger.com (Dana) — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 01:07:00 +0000

My husband gets tons of Christmas cards from work associates and I am always thinking of ways to recycle the cards after the holiday.

I love this idea from No Biggie. This is a project you can do before you pack away all of your holiday decor. Then next year, they are ready to go.

You can use craft punches, die cut machines or plain ol' scissors. Such a simple and easy way to spruce up your packages next year.

Happy Thanksgiving.

noreply@blogger.com (Dana) — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 19:54:00 +0000

I hope all of you have a wonderful Thanksgiving with family and friends.

Cute {cupcake} stands.

noreply@blogger.com (Dana) — Wed, 10 Nov 2010 17:32:00 +0000

I saw these on Swanky Tables today and had to share.

I love the idea of using these cute cupcake stands as part of the table setting. They can be used as favors to hold boxes, candles, desserts or place cards. You can also use a few and cluster them to make a cool candle display in a vintage wedding or put little flower vases on them for a bridal shower.

Wedzu: Handmade and dindie wedding goods.

noreply@blogger.com (Dana) — Thu, 14 Oct 2010 02:18:00 +0000

If you're a fan of Etsy, you'll want to check out Wedzu. You will find great handmade and indie items for your wedding such as evening clutches, bowties, stationery and jewelry. As your shopping for all your extra wedding goods, why not consider the small business owner?

(cute after the wedding, too)

(geneology and a seating chart in one)

(boutannaires with a rockin' edge)

(alternative to a guest book)

Choosing your wedding colors.

noreply@blogger.com (Dana) — Wed, 06 Oct 2010 14:06:00 +0000

{image: Wedding Chicks}

Choosing your wedding colors may seem like a no-brainer. However, there's a lot to consider when deciding on your big day decor.

First, consider the season and location. You should choose your ceremony and reception site before finalizing your color choices. Are you choosing to celebrate outdoors amongst greenery? If so, bright colors can look amazing and add drama, while a softer palette may be more romantic. Are you planning on having your reception in an art gallery? The paintings and art work may bring in all the color you need and you may want to choose a very simple color palette. If you're marrying near the ocean, let nature be your guide. You may want to consider the colors of the sunset or perhaps a nautical theme.

It's also important to consider the color of the carpet, drapes and the built-in decor in the room, such as lamp shades, chairs (if not using chair covers) chandeliers, etc.

These blogs and websites are good starting points for color inspiration:

My Personal Artist
Snippet and Ink
Fashion Trend Setter
Colour Trends
Better Homes and Gardens

Engagement Photos: Alice and Quinn

noreply@blogger.com (Dana) — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 12:01:00 +0000

I want to congratulate Alice and Quinn who got married this past weekend at the Boettcher Mansion in Golden, CO! They were great to work with and their friends and families were especially nice. Wedding photos will soon follow, but I was able to get my hands on their engagement photos from the fab Brooke Trexler and had to share them.

Thank you to Brooke for sharing these and I can't wait to see the wedding photos!

Vendor spotlight: Booth 66

noreply@blogger.com (Dana) — Sat, 07 Aug 2010 15:09:00 +0000

I recently coordinated a wedding for a couple who I swear will have the most wedding photos in history. Okay, maybe not the most, but certainly close. The groom is a photographer, as were many of his friends in attendance. It seemed that every other guest had a fab camera and was shooting away. To top it off, this couple had a photobooth that was a rage with all the guests. It was a chance for the photographers to take their cameras off and jump in, props included. The guests were able to go in the booth as much as they wished, with photos printing out in mere seconds.

At the end of the evening the couple received a jump drive that contained all the photos that were taken in the booth and they had an amazing guest book with fun pictures throughout.

If you are looking for a fun guestbook/favor idea or you just want some kooky photos for your event, check out Booth 66. They are a Colorado-based company, but also have booths in Texas.

Bachelorette party idea.

noreply@blogger.com (Dana) — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 06:03:00 +0000

In the heart of Cherry Creek there's an art studio called, Canvas and Cocktails. It's not just an ordinary studio, though. It's a space where you can take an art class, have some cocktails and socialize. No experience is necessary! The instructor guides the class step-by-step to recreate the featured piece and at the end of the night, everyone takes home art they painted themselves. If you are looking for a unique and creative evening to spend with your friends, this may be the way to go.

Here are some of the featured paintings this month:

Wedobo.

noreply@blogger.com (Dana) — Thu, 15 Jul 2010 13:24:00 +0000

Have you heard of The Gilt Groupe or RueLaLa? Both sites offer amazing discounts on designer items. I've gotten fantastic handbags and jewelry deals in the past. Because of my newborn, I've been paying more attention to Zulily lately.

Great news! Now, there's a similar site that's being offered to the wedding industry. Sign up on Wedobo and get discounted wedding-related offers delivered right to your inbox. Recent deals include half-off letterpress thank-you cards, discounted guest bags and jewelry. Unlike Gilt or RueLaLa, you don't need an invitation to join. Have fun shopping!

P.S. If you need an invite to Gilt or RueLaLa, let me know!

Venue Spotlight: The Clocktower

noreply@blogger.com (Dana) — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 20:29:00 +0000

Not too long ago, I had the pleasure of touring The Clocktower located in downtown Denver. It's a relatively new venue for private parties and events. A well known and historical landmark, I have always admired the building's architecture, but had no idea that a fun and funky event space occupied the tower. The space includes five floors, two of which have balconies with amazing views of Denver and the decor is very contemporary and hip. It's also a great place for a rehearsal dinner or a bachelor/bachelorette party. If you are looking for something different and certainly unique, add The Clocktower to your list.

Lookin' good, groomsmen.

noreply@blogger.com (Dana) — Tue, 22 Jun 2010 18:07:00 +0000

Check out these ties seller Toybreaker on Etsy. There are various designs to choose from, including foliage, peacock and bicyle motifs. How stylish would your groomsmen look if they were wearing ties with matching ornamentation?

Seems the seller will also make custom orders.

Napkin fold for Dad's Day.

noreply@blogger.com (Dana) — Sat, 19 Jun 2010 23:14:00 +0000

I recently wrote a post about napkin folds and today I ran across this charming fold featured on How About Orange. What a cute touch for a Father's Day brunch or BBQ. You can also use the design for a dinner with your guy or a boy's birthday party.

If you come across any unique napkin folds, send them my way!

What to include in your ceremony program.

noreply@blogger.com (Dana) — Mon, 10 May 2010 12:40:00 +0000

Programs are one DIY project that almost every couple can do to save a little money. But even if you aren't taking on your own program-making project, you'll still have to decide what to include in it. Although programs are optional, they are nice for guests to have while they are waiting for the ceremony to start and for them to use as a guideline for the service. Some guests will want to save your program as a keepsake, so it's a great idea to personalize it and put some thought into how you want it to look and who (and what) you plan on including.

Here's a basic guideline for your content:

Names of the bride and groom

Date, time and location of the ceremony

Specific parts of the ceremony, i.e. service, readings, passages, music (you can personalize this even further by explaining why these specifics are meaningful to you as a couple), if you are having someone conduct a reading, include the name of the person

Name of the officiant

Names of the bridesmaids and groomsmen--you can also put a small note explaining how you know each person

A special thank you to your families and/or guests is always nice

If your ceremony location is separate from your reception location, it might be a good idea to include the address and/or directions to the reception, as well as the time it begins

It's also a good idea to think about the formality of your ceremony when designing your program and then choose the paper and font accordingly.

(Photos: Martha)

An outdoor affair.

noreply@blogger.com (Dana) — Mon, 03 May 2010 13:01:00 +0000

(Martha)

You may be trying to save money by having an outdoor wedding and not renting a spendy venue. In some cases that may be possible, but here are some extra expenses you'll have to consider when planning an outdoor affair.

-Table rentals
-Chair rentals
-Plates, glassware and flatware rentals
-Table linens rentals
-Portable restrooms- you don't want to destroy the home plumbing by overuse on the big day
-A dance floor
-A generator-for the musicians and or DJ equipment, extra lighting, etc.
-Speakers-unless your DJ will supply these
-Lighting
-Microphones
-Tent-your Plan B in case Mother Nature decides not to play along
-Permit-check your local laws for gatherings of more than 100 people
-Parking space-consider having your guests transported in from a larger parking lot
-A dumpster-if the guest count is large enough

If you want to throw your soiree in a public place, you may need permits for the following:

-Beaches
-State park land
-Private or public gardens
-Estates
-Alcoholic beverages on public grounds
-Fire use (candles, torches, etc)
-Fireworks
-Exemptions from local noise violation laws

Although there can be a lot more planning involved in an outdoor affair, it may be worth it to have a personal home wedding or a fun, off-beat locale. Look for amazing backdrops like mountain cliffs, a gorgeous city skyline or beneath an old, large tree. Just don't forget the bug repellent!

(Martha)

(Stacey Adams)

(David Wegwart)

(Tim Brown Photography)

Details, details: napkin folds.

noreply@blogger.com (Dana) — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 12:45:00 +0000

The menu is planned and the linens coordinated. You've decided on the perfect floral arrangements and finally, your reception decor is coming together.

One detail you don't want to overlook is the napkin fold. It may seem minor, but this small detail can add so much to the reception decor. Imagine your guests' delight when they sit down and see a perfectly folded napkin that happens to match your theme or help make the color in your flowers pop.

(Photos: Martha)

Material girl.

noreply@blogger.com (Dana) — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 13:38:00 +0000

(Vera Wang)

For some brides, shopping for the perfect bridal gown is one of the most exciting parts of planning a wedding. If you are going to marry outdoors keep in mind that there are certain gown fabrics that are better for warm weather and humidity.

It's probably best to stay way from any synthetics. They will stick to your body and trap in heat and moisture. Also consider that beading and appliques may add weight and bulk, which can be uncomfortable in hot weather.

These fabrics are best for the warm outdoors:

Silk
Chiffon
Organza
Tulle
Lightweight Satin
Shantung
Linen

Who pays for what?

noreply@blogger.com (Dana) — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 13:10:00 +0000

When you start planning your wedding, one of the most important things to discuss is the wedding budget. How much are you and your fiance able to spend? What do your parents plan on contributing? Are his parents able to chip in?

The following info can be used as a guide to help you determine what to ask for or how to allocate your families' funds. Whether you follow traditional etiquette or not, this info is also a reminder of the costs associated with a wedding and some of what needs to be accounted for in your budget.

Who pays for what?

Bride's Family

Photography

Engagement Party

Stationery and Postage

Bride's Attire

Ceremony Fees

Ceremony Musicians

Transportation of Bridal Party

Flowers for Ceremony and Reception

Flowers for Bridesmaids and Flower Girls

Groom's Family

Rehearsal Dinner

Bride

Groom's Ring

Make-up and Hair

Housing for Out-Of-Town Attendants

Presents for Her Attendants

Guestbook and Accessories (Cake Knife, Ring Pillow, etc.)

Bride or Her Family

Bridal Consultant

Valet or Parking Fees

Bridesmaid Luncheon

Boutonnieres for Fathers and Grandfathers

Groom

Bride's Rings

Honeymoon

His Attire

Marriage License

Officiant's Fee

Bride's Bouquet

Flowers for Mothers and Grandmothers

Boutonnieres for Himself and Attendants

Presents for Attendants

Housing for Out-Of-Town Attendants

Bridal Party

Their Own Attire

Bridal Shower

Their Own Travel Expenses

Need more budget advice?

The dreaded 'B' word.

The dreaded 'B' word: hidden costs.

The dreaded 'B' word: tipping.