Summer intern

I want to introduce you all to Kate, who is going to be Bride Ideas intern over this month. She is a senior in high school, on her way to my alma mater, Bucknell University in the fall. Last summer, she interned with Bride Ideas during the month of July, and she just couldn't help herself - she's back for more!

As wedding season is getting into swing, Kate will have 2 weddings this month to help out with - and also help us prepare for a wedding next month. I'm excited to help Kate explore the wedding industry, to see if this is where she wants to be! I'll ask Kate if she's interested in writing a blog post or two about her experiences!!

Until next time, happy planning...

Ways to cut costs but achieve amazing results

Last month, I was interviewed for a feature article in NJ View Magazine about how couples are cutting back on their budgets but not sacrificing any important perks for their wedding celebrations. I was honored to be only 1 of 3 planners in all of New Jersey consulted for this piece!

Here's a link to the article: http://njviewmagazine.com/article_bridal.htm - enjoy!!

Until next time, happy planning...

Happy Earth Day!

Today is Earth Day - a time to reflect and do your part to save our planet. What does that mean for wedding planners? Planning a green wedding, of course!

Here are some "green ideas":

-Instead of flowers, use locally grown produce such as pumpkins, apples, oranges, etc. for decorations

-Use recycled paper for your invitations.

-Go paperless for your invitations - or at least your response cards!

-Choose your honeymoon wisely - think eco-tourism!

-Select your wedding rings made from recycled precious metals and stones.

-Choose a vintage wedding dress.

What ideas do you have to share? I'd love to hear from you!

Until next time, happy planning...

Planning Your Dream Wedding In This Economy

He finally popped the question, and you said yes! That was in December - now you're in full planning mode. Except the economy has contracted, perhaps one of you has lost your job or is in danger of doing so, and you're trying to figure out how you're going to pay for your dream wedding.

Does this scenario sound familiar? I bet it does to many of you, unfortunately. That's just the reality of the current economy.

My first piece of advice is not to finance your entire wedding on credit cards. Your wedding is the first day of the marriage that will last your lifetime - and who wants to start off being in debt?

My next piece of advice is not to cut back so drastically that you don't even recognize any part of your dream wedding. If you always wanted a live band during your reception, believe it or not there are excellent bands out there that don't charge an arm and a leg! In my market, I know bands that charge in excess of $20,000 and those that charge less than a quarter of that price tag and have an equally packed dance floor. Does your vision always include chair covers? There are other rental options in the marketplace, such as "chair caps" and "chair backs" that will give you much of the same effect at a fraction of the cost. And the best way to control your budget is, as it always has been, to cut your guest list.

My final piece of advice on this topic is to seek out professional assistance. A truly professional wedding consultant will be able to help you reframe your dream wedding so that you achieve the same look and feel, but at a budget that you're comfortable with. We know the industry, know the vendors, and can truly make your day more than you even imagined!

Until next time, happy planning...

Bridal Show in Puerto Rico

Hi all,

Sorry I've been MIA for a bit - while no excuse, I was away in Puerto Rico and had the pleasure of attending a bridal show over there! The Association of Bridal Consultants had a booth, and I got to know Sari and John Skalnik of Tropical Weddings (http://www.tropicalweddingspr.com/) - they are so much fun! If you are thinking of getting married on Puerto Rico, you MUST contact them!!

Sari, John and me (right-to-left) outside the Puerto Rico Convention Center.

I want to share some photos I took from the bridal show. Beautiful designs were on full display -I hope you get some inspiration!!

Until next time, happy planning...

Alternative Centerpiece Ideas

Recently I've been asked about centerpieces that don't revolve around flowers. My clients either are very eco-conscious or were looking for new ways to personalize their wedding celebration. So, to this challenging question, I came up with the following alternatives:

1. Use a potted plant with a decorated container. That way, the winner of the centerpiece can take it home and plant it, or add it to their houseplant collection.

2. Wrap up the favors into different sized boxes and pile them in the center of the table. At an appropriate time during the evening, tell your guests to pick their favor.

3. Do something really unusual - wrap a stuffed animal in beautiful paper and then announce that the centerpieces are being donated to a homeless shelter.

What do you think? Do you have any creative ideas for your wedding reception that you would like to share? I'd love to hear from you!

Until next time, happy planning...

Valentine's Day is coming!

Valentine's Day is this Saturday! A time for you to pause from your wedding planning and to remember why you're getting married - the love you share!

There are so many ways to celebrate this holiday, from lavish dinners out to an intimate dinner for two at home. Whether you go out or stay in, just focus on each other and your celebration will be just perfect!

Until next time, happy planning...