Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

I am taking the rest of the week and next week off for the holidays.

I hope you and yours enjoy this time with family and friends.  Maybe some of you may end up getting engaged!  If so, let me know.  I'd love to hear your stories.

Eat, drink and be merry!

Elan Artists Preview Showcase

If you want a chance to check out some great live entertainment for your wedding, then you may want to attend Elan Artists' next preview showcase in Washington, DC.  Below are all the details you need:

Elan Artists presents an innovative
 DANCE BAND SHOWCASE 
and champagne cocktail

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

THE WILLARD HOTEL | Pierce Room 


1401 Pennsylvania Ave. NW Washington, DC 20004



Easy on-site parking available



cocktail & jazz 6:30pm | showcase 7pm



The Source will play a 15 minute representative medley at 7 & 7:45PM

tasteful, energetic, and personalized options for wedding and events...

Featured act:
  The Source


The Source features D.C.'s most celebrated, award-winning musicians.

  Past event highlights include:
• Obama Inaugural Ball
• Washington Opera & D.C. ISES Galas

to 

Preview The Source and other bands at:  www.elanartists.com





rsvpdc@elanartists.com 

events industry friends and prospective clients in search of great entertainment welcome to attend!

Have a great time!

resource:  Elan Artists

Priscilla of Boston Store Closing Sales

No doubt, you have probably heard by now, Priscilla of Boston are closing their doors as of December 31.  This is the bad news.  The good news is all of their gowns have been reduced to crazy discounts and they keep reducing.  Right now, gowns current ticketed prices between $499 - $1,999 are now $99.  Gowns current ticketed prices between $2,000 - $3,999 are $299 and gowns current ticketed prices $4,000 on up are only $499.  How can you beat those prices for a designer gown?  If you also need bridesmaid dresses, they are only $9.99 for those current ticketed prices between $148 - $268. 

No appointment is necessary, but selections do vary by salon.  The nearest one in my area – Washington, DC metro area - is located at:  8065 Leesburg Pike, Tysons Corner, VA.  With this kind of store closing sale, there are no special orders and all sales are final.

Hurry!  Go check them out.  If you already have your gown, perhaps you have a friend who is still looking.  Tell them about it. 

Happy shopping.

photo credit:  Priscilla of Boston website

Win a Colin Cowie Wedding!

Colin Cowie Weddings is giving a chance for four couples to win a dream wedding at the Empire State Building in NYC on Valentine's Day 2012.  You also have a chance to win $100,000!

Wow!  I wish I were getting married.  I would so do this.  Actually, I could do this.  It can be for a vow renewal, too.  Hmmm.  Maybe I will enter.  :-)

Click here to get all the details.  Hurry.  You must submit your entry on or before December 9.

Have fun.

credit:  Colin Cowie Weddings

Gift Registry - Do Something Different

Here's a great article I came across today from Get Married's DIY blog. These are some great ideas if you don't want the traditional gift registry.

Read "How to Register for What You Really Want" at getmarried.com. Click on Blog and choose How-to Blog from the drop down menu.

Enjoy!

Happy Thanksgiving!

I wish everyone a very safe and Happy Thanksgiving!

I will be taking the rest of the week off, but thought I would share with you a little blurb about the history behind us celebrating Thanksgiving Day on the last Thursday every November. Enjoy!

In the fall of 1863 the Civil War raged across this country taking the lives of the best young men that this land had to offer and threatening to tear the nation in two. In the midst of such chaos and bloodshed it would have been easy for the country's leader, President Abraham Lincoln, to raise a defiant hand toward heaven and question the wisdom of God. But, that is not what President Lincoln did, instead, he sat down and penned the following words.

"The year that is drawing to its close, has been filled with the blessings of fruitful fields and healthful skies. To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come, others have been added, which are of such an extraordinary a nature ... (that) No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy. It is seemed to me fit and proper that they should solemnly, reverently, and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and one voice by the whole American people. I do therefore invite my fellow citizens ... to set apart the last Thursday in November ... a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens. And I recommend to them that while offering up the ascriptions justly due to Him for such singular deliverances and blessings ... and fervently implore the interposition of the Almighty Hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it as soon as may be consistent with the Divine purposes to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquility, and Union."

Happy Thanksgiving!

photo credit:  Martha Stewart

Caring for Your Jewelry

You just got engaged.  You now have that beautiful, gorgeous, sparkling diamond on your finger, but how do you keep it looking that way?

Here are some short, sweet and to the point tips on caring for that bling.

• Take your ring to your trusted jeweler to have it professionally cleaned and inspected, at least once a year.  They will inspect it for loose fittings, worn prongs, etc.  You can also ask them how you clean it yourself at home during the course of the year.
• It’s a good idea to clean your ring regularly to avoid buildup of dirt, which could dull the “sparkle.”
• Periodically, check your ring for loose fittings or other possible problems that could lead to a lost diamond.  If you even think something feels or looks wrong, take it off and bring it to your jeweler immediately to have it inspected.  You don’t want to take any chances of losing it.
• When you are not wearing your jewelry, keep it in a soft bag or compartment in your jewelry box and keep all pieces separate so they do not become scratched.
• This is a no-brainer, but worth mentioning.  Try to evade heavy hits or whacks to your diamond.  Diamonds are one of the hardest gems; however, they could chip if hit at the right angle. 

Keep that sparkle!

photo courtesy:  Mervis Diamonds

Décor for Your Reception

One of the most important features of your reception is the décor.  This sets the mood whether your wedding style is lush New York City or  mountaintop resort style.  Selecting the correct elements will highlight your theme as well as take it above and beyond your wildest dreams.  Unusual, elegant chairs or centerpieces that are the most über elite, will “wow” your guests and make your room “pop.”  Or, setting up a lounge area with leather seats and lighted tables for the cocktail area will create a relaxed, yet elegant feeling.

Wondering where you can find such fabulous items?  Start scouring flea markets, estate sales or boutique consignment shops.  If you don’t have the time or necessarily want to keep all these décor items, then renting them is the next best thing.  A luxurious rental company will have everything you need to create your look and set the right tone.  They will take care of everything from delivery, setting it up and taking it all down afterwards. 

Have fun!  Let your imagination go wild!

photo courtesy of Cort Events

Wedding of Priscilla + Insoo - October 15, 2011

I had the pleasure of planning and coordinating Priscilla's + Insoo's wedding this past weekend. After all the rain we had been having in our area, Saturday turned out to be a gorgeous, beautiful sunny day.

Even though the wedding was in the fall, Priscilla wanted a sort of "Valentine's" theme. Her colors were red and white.

For her favors, she had already purchased conversation hearts, so I provided red organza bags to fill with the hearts.

Priscilla + Insoo are Korean and the sweetest couple. They had a local Korean restaurant cater the food and there was plenty to go around. They were expecting around 350 guests.

Based on Priscilla's idea for her centerpieces, I used clear Deco Beads in a cylinder vase, a red submersible LED light to make it really "pop," and a red rose. It looked pretty cool. For some of the other centerpieces, I used clear rocks that Priscilla had purchased, the red LED light and a red rose. I filled the vase with water and added floating candles. We used white tablecloths with a red runner placed down the middle of each guest table.

A few weeks prior to the wedding, Priscilla had mentioned she wanted to have a game played during the reception, but she wanted it to be a surprise. She didn't want to know what game I chose. I searched the Internet for ideas and chose the one of having the guests spontaneously get up and sing a line or two from a song with the word "love" in it. Whenever the bride and groom heard the word "love" they would have to kiss. Well, on the day of the wedding, shortly before the reception began, I found out that in the Korean culture, they do not show PDA (public display of affection). I thought, "Uh, oh. What am I going to do if they won't kiss or the guests won't even get up to sing?" I did have a back-up game, but I wanted to see if this one would work. So, I felt I had to give a heads up to Priscilla so she wouldn't be totally taken offguard. I didn't tell her what the guests had to do, but I did tell her that it would involve her having to kiss her husband. At first, she was a little shy and embarrassed, but was accepting of it. When it was time for the game, I had the MC start things off by singing a song himself. They kissed. The guests seemed to really enjoy it. So, someone else got up and sang. They kissed. Quite a few guests got up and sang and really started getting into it. Everyone was laughing and clapping. One person even sang the Barney song. It was a riot. I think it really made the reception fun and got the guests really involved. I have a feeling, this is one they will remember for a long time.

I loved working with Priscilla + Insoo. They are now enjoying their honeymoon in Aruba!

Congratulations!

::sources::
Caterer - Dong-A Asian Market
Florist - Joy Park
Wedding Cake - Korean Bakery
Photographer - Studio Moment Event Photography
Hair/Makeup - E Jung

Calling all brides!

It's that time of year again to don your running shoes and attend the famous Filene's Basement "Running of the Brides."

Our local one will take place this Friday, October 14 at Filene's Basement, Mazza Gallerie, 5300 Wisconsin Avenue, Washington, D.C. from 8AM - 9PM. Cash, checks and credit cards accepted. All sales are final.

Below are some helpful tips directly from Filene's Basement.

The key to being successful at the Running of the Brides® is knowing what to expect. When the doors open at 8:00am, brides and their helpers rush to the racks, grab wedding gowns and immediately start trying them on. After this initial frenzy the real sale begins, when helpers roam the floor to trade sizes, colors and designers with the other teams. Once you get in the flow of this unique event, it will all make sense. Here are a few guidelines that will help make your experience at the ROTB more successful and fun.

Before You Go

1. Recruit your team and assign jobs.
2. Create team unity by wearing something matching—for example hats, t-shirts or headbands.
This will also help you find each other in the crowd.
3. Tear out pages from bridal magazines, or print styles from on-line wedding gown sites to
show your team what you’re looking for.

The Day of the Sale

1. Dress smart—wear a sports bra or swim suit so you can change in and out of gowns
anywhere in the store.
2. Leave your handbag at home or pack light for the day.
3. Please, don’t wear make-up. White shows everything.
4. The sale starts at 8:00am, so if you want to be one of the first through the doors, plan
on arriving well before then.
5. Not everyone wants to deal with the 8:00am rush. Starting around 11:00am you’ll see
dresses going back on the racks and the scene will be calmer.

Be considerate. Once you decide you don’t like a dress, put it back on the rack. It just might be someone else’s dream dress.

Happy shopping. If any brides-to-be are reading my blog and you attend this event, please send me your experiences and photos. I will post them on the blog.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

If you are looking for a great charity to sponsor or support, I suggest Brides Against Breast Cancer. You can donate money and even your wedding gown. Find out how you can donate your gown directly on their website at: www.bridesagainstbreastcancer.org.

Or, have a Pink Envelope wedding reception. Visit Brides Against Breast Cancer for details.

Looking for a unique favor for your guests? Consider making a pink envelope donation on behalf of your guests. Go to the Brides Against Breast Cancer website to read all about it.

If you would rather participate physically, then run in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. In our local area, the race will take place on Sunday, October 23 in Hunt Valley, MD. Call 410.433.RACE(7233) for more information. For the schedule of where and when other races will take place in your area, go to their website at: ww5.komen.org.

Think Pink!

Formula for Determining How Many Guests

Are you wondering how many guests will really attend your wedding reception? Here is an easy formula to help you determine just that...give or take a few.

# of guests invited x .66 x 1.15 = Total approximate # of guests who will attend

Example: 300 guests invited x .66 x 1.15 = 228 guests attending

The .66 is your average RSVP rate. The 1.15 is your unexpected guest "buffer" (e.g. "I invited them but didn't really think they'd show up" guests) but also leaves room for an extra meal or two for that "just in case" situation.

Keep in mind, however, this most likely won't be exact, but it will give you an idea of approximately how many guests to expect.

Ten Tips When Shopping for Your Wedding Gown

After you say, "Yes!" usually the first thing a bride wants to do is shop for her wedding gown. It's fun and exciting, but also could become overwhelming. To ease some of your possible anxiety, here are ten tips to help your wedding gown shopping go smoothly.

1. Definitely begin looking at bridal magazines to find the styles and designs you like. Tear out your favorites and bring them with you to the bridal salon. Show the salesperson so they can see the styles and designs you like. This will save a lot of time and frustration. Also tell them what you do not like so they won't waste valuable time bringing out gowns that you know you are going to hate before you even try them on.

2. Start shopping for your gown as soon as possible, especially if you plan to purchase a designer gown (not off the rack.) It can take up to six months (including time for alterations) to have your gown ready for your wedding day.

3. Know your price point before you step one foot into the bridal salon. Be sure to inform the salesperson to ensure they only show you gowns at or below your price point. Wise advice - do not even think about trying on a gown that is well above that price point. You know what will happen. Have you ever watched, "Say Yes to the Dress?" You know what I'm talking about. You run the risk of going way over your price point. Don't forget to include the cost of accessories (veil, undergarments, shoes, etc.) and alterations.

4. Decide on which bridal salons you would like to visit and call them up to make an appointment. Most require one. Do not assume that you can just show up and expect to be waited on immediately. If they do not take appointments, the best time to arrive is as soon as they open their doors.

5. Bring your mother and your matron/maid of honor, who is usually your most trustworthy friend. Do not show up with an entourage of people. You will have too many views that may cause you to become frustrated, disappointed and/or baffled. On the other side, don't go alone either. You do want someone else's opinion besides the salesperson's.

6. Trust your heart. You are the only one who truly knows your body and what looks good on you. Listen to yourself. Don't just rely your decision on someone else's thoughts. You will know when it's the right dress.

7. When going to try on gowns, wear neutral-colored undergarments. Do not wear lots of make-up or red or dark lipsticks, and heavy perfume. These elements could damage a gown.

8. We all want to lose weight before our wedding day, but you should still buy your wedding dress that fits you now. It is much easier and less expensive to "take in" a gown versus trying to "enlarge" it which may not always be possible.

9. While you want your gown to be "drop dead gorgeous," be sure it is comfortable as well. When having it altered, be sure to move around (as if you were dancing) and sit in it.

10. As with any major purchase, it is not wise to make an impulse buy, but to "sleep" on it. You want to be absolutely sure this is the dress you have been dreaming about. Most salons only accept a non-refundable deposit and/or may not accept exchanges. So "shop 'til you drop" to find that perfect wedding gown for you.

Happy shopping!

photo courtesy: Martha Stewart Weddings - Gown by Monique Lhuillier, spring 2012 collection

A Few Tips for Your Reception Design

Tired of going to weddings and seeing the same old style of seating - all round tables set in the same pattern?

No need to use the "standard" style anymore. I like to mix things up a bit. Use rounds, squares, rectangles or even ovals. You can also mix small tables with large tables. If you are using a head table for the wedding party, this table should always make a statement by either where it's placed and/or having more elaborate decor.

For larger receptions where some guests will be seated far away from the head table, you could give those tables a more elaborate centerpiece or something that will make them feel special. No one likes to feel they are "lost in the shuffle" so to speak. For those guests whom you know love to dance, seat them closer to the dance floor to get the party started and remember to consider your elderly guests and seat them away from the speakers.

Happy designing!

photo courtesy of Martha Stewart Weddings

Contingency (Back-up) Plans

For those of us on the east coast, we are preparing for the impending appearance of Hurricane Irene. Fortunately, I do not have a wedding this weekend. But, I was just thinking about east coast couples who have planned outdoor weddings this weekend. Do they have a contingency plan in case Hurricane Irene hits? That made me think about contingency (back-up) plans. So, I thought I would share four of my basic back-up planning tips.

1. When scoping out sites for your outdoor wedding, always ask the venue if they have an indoor space that could be used in case the wedding and/or reception has to be moved inside. This will save you much time and headaches if you have a "Plan B" in place.

2. If you are really set on a particular outdoor venue and they do not have indoor space available, consider renting a tent. Call various tent rental companies and see if one will be available on your date. However, they will not be able to hold one for you and expect to be called at the last minute. This will cost you a little more money, but isn't it worth it to still be able to have your outdoor wedding without you and your guests getting wet?

3. Consider the time of day you plan to have your wedding. If your wedding is in the middle of summer, you may want to consider having a sunset wedding or an early morning wedding instead of in the middle of the hottest part of the day. You won't be comfortable and your guests certainly won't be comfortable. It would just make for a very miserable day. Not a pleasant memory for your wedding day. You also could consider large fans placed around the peripheral of the inside of the tent. If your outdoor wedding is planned for the cooler months, consider renting outdoor heaters.

4. Pests. Yes, you must think about those pesky mosquitoes and other annoying bugs that might take a bite out of your guests. If your wedding is in the evening, you can purchase those citronella torchieres which can double as part of your decor for inside the tent. You also might consider having the area sprayed by a professional, such as the Mosquito Squad.

Planning ahead will enable you to rest and relax knowing your wedding will still go on, whether it's covered with a tent or has to be moved inside. Remember, the only real goal for the day is that you get married to the one you love.

Distinguishing Different Types of Wedding Coordinators

Confused about a church wedding coordinator, venue coordinator or other types of coordinators?

Be confused no more and get educated. I have just written up brief descriptions of what to expect from some of these types of coordinators.

To receive your FREE copy, simply e-mail me at: patti@smoothweddings.com. Just type in "Different Types of Wedding Coordinators" in the subject line. I will send it off to you right away.

White by Vera Wang Fall Collection 2011 Now at David's Bridal

White by Vera Wang

Besides new wedding dress styles, White by Vera Wang is introducing marvelous bridesmaid and shoe collections.

You and your bridesmaids will have the perfect wedding day look. White by Vera Wang also includes a selection of "beautifully embellished" sashes and headpieces showing Vera Wang's "artistic use of intricate draping and feminine detailing."

"It gives me great pride to be able to bring my designs to more women through White by Vera Wang. With the addition of bridesmaid dresses and shoes, I am excited to provide an array of romantic, classic, and whimsical fashion for the entire bridal party." - Vera Wang

Wedding gown prices range from $600-$1400 and bridesmaid dresses $158-$198. Sizes for bridesmaid dresses come in 0-26 while wedding gowns come in sizes 0-14.

Vera Wang's bridesmaid styles are not your typical wear only once dress. You will find her dresses can be worn by your wedding guests as well as for any other social occasion.

White by Vera Wang has just been added to 100 additional stores making a total of 250 David's Bridal shops where you can find her exclusive gowns.

Take advantage of a chance to win a White by Vera Wang gown or five bridesmaid dresses. Click here to make your appointment at a David's Bridal shop near you.

source: Vera Wang

What Are You Going to Do This Monday, July 18?

Go check out some dance bands with Elan Artists, that’s what.

Elan Artists is sponsoring a Dance Band Showcase, Monday, July 18 at The Willard Hotel – Crystal Room, 1401 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC. Cocktails begin at 6PM with the showcase running from 6:30PM – 8:30PM. Three different bands – The Source, Raggs & the Allstars and Truth Groove will perform twice each rotating every 20 minutes. To preview the bands, go to: www.elanartists.com. Click on Maryland/DC/Virginia link and you’ll see the bands listed. Click on the individual band’s icon and you’ll receive more info., hear an audio and see a video.

If you are still looking for great entertainment for your wedding, you won’t want to miss this great event.

RSVP to: rsvpdc@elanartists.com.

Have fun.

Logo Credit & Info.: Elan Artists

Purple Inspiration Board - Jezz & Eric's Wedding

Over the weekend, I had the pleasure of designing flowers and provide a minimum of decorating for Jezz’s and Eric’s wedding on Saturday, July 9, 2011.

The bride was all about purple. For the bride's bouquet, I used purple hydrandea, lavender mini-calla lilies and lisianthus tied off with a dark purple ribbon enhanced with jewels. The bridesmaids’ bouquets were white hydrangeas with a touch of lavender sweet peas and white stock. The groom had a lavender mini-calla lily with a couple of loops of bear grass while the groomsmen had a purple lisianthus as their boutonniere.

For the ceremony, I created the altar flowers with a variety of purple and white flowers. I filled the bottom of the vase with purple glass gems and used purple gossamer as the filler. I draped lavender tulle on the front of the arbor and added a purple hydrangea to the white tulle pew bows with lavender ribbon.
For the chairs, I rented stretch Spandex white chair covers with satin lilac sashes. This really gave the plain room a little “wow” factor.

I also designed and printed the programs, menu cards, seating assignment board and paper rose petal cones.

For the reception centerpieces, the groom cut and spray-painted his own branches and I added crystals and butterflies, also provided by the bride and groom. I created the “lighted” look using submersible purple LED lights set in Deco Beads. It really made the centerpiece “pop.” I added hydrangeas to the top of the branches as well as bear grass cascading out of the top of the vase.
The bride rented silver chivari chairs with lavender cushions. This really added a pretty look to the ballroom.

Congratulations, Jezz and Eric! Thank you for allowing me to help you make your wedding look beautiful.

Turn Your Photos into Art

I just recently had a family photo turned into a "stunning work of art on canvas." This is the latest trend in the photo world. I love it. I was very happy with how it turned out. I had this done to present to my husband on Father's Day. He was very impressed. I used Easy Canvas Prints. The four-step process is so easy and very reasonably priced beginning at $30. They have hundreds of sizes from which to choose, even as large as 40" x 40"! They also have various borders you can choose from to wrap your canvas. Since I was doing a black and white canvas, I chose an all black border.

I thought this would make a great addition to a newlywed's home - having a favorite wedding photo turned into a work of art on canvas. Just simply fabulous!

Visit Easy Canvas Prints today to see how easy and affordable it is to turn your favorite engagement or wedding photo or any favorite photo into a "stunning work of art on canvas" that will last a lifetime.

Groomzillas

Do you look like the couple in this picture as you are planning your wedding with your groom?

No doubt you have heard the term “bridezilla” and perhaps have even watched the reality show by the same name, but the up and coming “groomzilla” is now starting to rise to stardom.

I just listened to a news segment this morning about how grooms are now becoming more and more involved in the wedding planning. My husband was actually very involved with our wedding planning. He was not a "groomzilla" however. We were in our mid-30’s, no longer living at home with the parents, had our own careers, so we were paying for everything. We are both very administrative and we worked very well together in planning our wedding. But, not all grooms may be so easy-going about it. Some even go so far as having the final say on the bridesmaids dresses down to the choice of shoes or even want to help their bride choose her wedding gown.

As a wedding planner, I love it when the groom is involved in the wedding planning. Afterall, it is his wedding, too. I was such a believer in this that in my wedding, I asked (and he complied) my husband to walk down the aisle. I wanted him to have his shining moment just as much as me.

So, ladies. What about your grooms? Are they “groomzillas” or are they letting you do most of the planning?

Gerbera Daisy Theme

I recently designed flowers for a wedding on June 11. The bride was all about Gerbera daisies. She was specific in that she only wanted white Gerberas with black centers.

I love Gerberas myself. They are so pretty and a very hardy flower that lasts a long time.

I made a Flower Girl head wreath out of daisies, baby's breath and ivy. This was the first time I had the opportunity to make a head wreath. It was a little challenging putting each flower cluster on, but in the end, I think it turned out pretty nice.

I made bouquets, mini-bouquets for the mothers to carry, boutonnieres, corsages, Flower Girl mini-bouquet (as well as the head wreath) and a tossing bouquet.

Enjoy!

Wedding Belles (and whistles) by Kate Spade

Another one of my favorite designers, Kate Spade, recently launched a new line called Wedding Belles (and whistles), “A celebratory collection of little white dresses & colorful accoutrements for every shower and soiree.” Wouldn’t these lovely little white dresses and accessories be perfect to change into for your reception?


source: Kate Spade

Check out the above invitation. Make your appointment now and go if you can. Should be fabulous. Wish I could go.

If you can't make out the fine print on the invitation, here are the details:

May 26 through May 28
Vera Wang on Madison
991 Madison Avenue
New York, NY
Please call for appointment: 212-628-3400

source: Vera Wang

Choosing the Right Metal for Your Wedding Bands

Part of the wedding planning process will be to choose the right metal for your wedding bands.

Here are the details on the most popular metals for wedding bands:

Gold – This is a classic metal that has always symbolized elegance, beauty, and timelessness. Gold can also come in the standard yellow color, white, or pink, meaning you can customize it to your preferences.

Platinum – This beautiful metal is a great alternative to those seeking something other than the classic and traditional look of gold. Platinum is incredibly durable, making it a great choice for a long-lasting and loving relationship. This metal also looks great with a variety of colors, styles, and outfits, making it a fabulous accessory!

Titanium – This metal is becoming more and more popular for men’s wedding bands. It has a lightweight feel and versatile look that helps it fit in perfectly with any style. Titanium also tends to have a more subtle appearance, making it a great choice for anyone who prefers a less-flashy style of ring.

The above information is courtesy of our local Washington, DC Mervis Diamond Importers. Check them out and find your perfect wedding band.

photo credit - Mervis Diamond Importers website

New Postage Rates

New Postage Prices for Wedding Invitations

The United States Postal Service (USPS) has recently changed the price of stamps that affect many wedding invitations and save-the-date cards. If you have yet to mail your invitations you should be aware of these new rates.  Here's a list of sizes and prices that have just changed as of yesterday, April 17, 2011:

• 1st class, 2 oz - $0.64 (previously $0.61)


• 1st class, 2 oz - odd size* - $0.84 (previously $0.81)


• 1st class, 3 oz - $0.84 (previously $0.78)


• 1st class, 3.5 oz - $1.04 (previously $0.95)


• 1st class, 4 oz - $1.48 (previously $1.39)


• Postcards, 1 oz - $.29 (previously $0.28)

First class 1 oz stamps will remain at $0.44. (See all 2011 postage rates)

*odd-size or non-machineable letters include envelopes with clasps or square envelopes.

Two New Wedding-Themed Stamps

On April 22, the post office will also release a new wedding-themed Forever® stamp featuring two white roses.  While this is only a $0.44 stamp for one-ounce mail it does provide an additional wedding-themed stamp at face value (the rings stamp has been available since 2009) to the list of available choices. The old $0.61 wedding cake stamp is now a $0.64 stamp.

Custom Wedding Postage

If you want your wedding invitations to convey a more personal touch, custom postage stamps are a great way to add your personality to the outside of your invites. With over 150,000 design choices, custom stamps continue to grow in popularity among engaged couples. Best of all, custom postage stamps are available for all first-class rates so you can enjoy wedding-themed postage stamps regardless of the size or weight of your invitation.

For more information on custom postage stamps for your wedding visit WeddingStamps.US where you'll find thousands of wedding stamps, rate information, and a weekly giveaway of $25 in custom postage.

Introducing...

my new FREE Get Ready to Wed Guide.

I have written a five-step guide to help you get started in the planning of your wedding. To receive your FREE copy, please e-mail me at: pwilson@smoothweddings.com with "Get Ready to Wed Guide" in the subject line and I will e-mail it to you within 24 hours.

Don't delay! Get started today!

A New Take on an Old Idea

Couple Cards! What are these, you ask? GetMarried.com just launched their new Couple Cards line. Simply put, these are like business cards. What’s the “Old Idea?” Back in Victorian days and early 20th Century, calling cards were a “must have” for those wanting to make a statement. They were used to make formal introductions or give a glimpse of their social station.

Fast forward to today and you can use the Couple Cards to give to wedding professionals you interview. Hand them out to all the vendors you see at a bridal show so you won’t have to spend time filling out all your contact info. Give them to your friends. You can also add a barcode on the back so anyone with a smart phone can snap it and go straight to your wedding website.

These Couple Cards include an image of you and your groom (if desired) and printed information, such as, name, telephone number, e-mail address, etc. What a time-saver and great idea.

These cards are offered in 15 different designs, four sizes and a variety of colors. Click here to order yours today.



source: GetMarried.com

White by Vera Wang at David’s Bridal

One of my favorite designers, Vera Wang, has just launched her White by Vera Wang collection available exclusively at David’s Bridal.

This collection features hand-cut details, gorgeous draping and beautiful fabrics. These gowns are priced from $600 - $1,400, so now you, too, can afford a Vera Wang gown. White by Vera Wang also includes sashes, veils and headpieces, ranging from $38 to $248.

This collection is currently available in 150 select stores nationwide and can also be special ordered at any David’s Bridal location.

What are you waiting for? Go shopping for your dream dress now.

Valentine's Day Contest

Today, approximately 12% of couples will become engaged. Will you be one of them?

Here's my contest. If you become engaged today, please send me your story. I will randomly choose one on Friday, February 25. If you are the winner, you will receive a 15% discount on my Wedding Day Coordination service.

The Fine Print

Contest ends: Friday, February 25, 2011 at 12PM EST
Send story to: pwilson@smoothweddings.com
Wedding must take place no later than June 2011 and be located in the Washington, DC metro area

That's it.

So excited! We won the Bride's Choice Awards 2011 from WeddingWire for the third year in a row! This means we are in the top 5 percent of Wedding Pros nationwide.

Thank you to all of my clients who helped me have a successful 2010. Here's to a great 2011!

Here's the official press release.

Smooth Weddings, LLC Awarded WeddingWire’s 2011 Bride’s Choice Awards

Germantown, MD – February 2, 2011 - WeddingWire, the nation’s leading wedding technology company, is thrilled to announce Smooth Weddings, LLC has been selected to receive the prestigious annual WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011 for wedding planning!

Recognition for the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011 is determined by recent reviews and extensive surveys from over 750,000 WeddingWire newlyweds. Our past clients are among those that shared their experiences on WeddingWire, the largest wedding review site in the nation.

Smooth Weddings, LLC stands among the top five percent of wedding professionals in the WeddingWire community, representing quality and service excellence within the wedding industry. Awards were given to the top wedding professionals across 20 service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers, and were based on the overall professional achievements throughout the past year.

“WeddingWire is honored to celebrate the success of the top-rated wedding professionals within the WeddingWire community,” said Timothy Chi, WeddingWire’s Chief Executive Officer. “With the annual Bride’s Choice Awards™ program, WeddingWire has the unique opportunity to recognize the best wedding professionals across the US and Canada. We applaud Smooth Weddings, LLC for their professionalism and dedication to enhancing the wedding planning experience last year.”

We are happy to announce that Smooth Weddings, LLC is among the very best wedding planners within the WeddingWire Network, which includes leading wedding planning sites WeddingWire, Martha Stewart Weddings, Project Wedding and Weddingbee. We would like to thank our past clients for nominating us to receive the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011.

For more information, please visit our WeddingWire Storefront today at www.weddingwire.com.

For more information on the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.

About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire.com, the nation's leading technology company serving the $70 billion wedding industry, is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding professionals. For engaged couples, WeddingWire offers the ability to search, compare and book over 200,000 local wedding vendors, from wedding venues to wedding photographers to wedding cakes. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools for weddings, including wedding websites and wedding checklists, all at no charge. For wedding professionals, WeddingWire provides free online management tools creating the only market opportunity that gives local businesses control over their clients, reviews, leads and performance. Businesses that join the WeddingWire Network appear on WeddingWire.com and other leading sites, including MarthaStewartWeddings.com (NYSE: MSO), ProjectWedding.com and Weddingbee.com (both part of eHarmony), and Celebrations.com (part of the 1-800-Flowers family of brands, NASDAQ: FLWS).

Win a Trip to Paris for Your Honeymoon

Pottery Barn is sponsoring a honeymoon sweepstakes with a chance to win a trip for two to Paris! Wow! Wish I could enter.

All you need to do is go to their website at: www.potterybarn.com, create your registry online and enter for a chance to win a romantic trip for two to Paris. You must register no later than February 23.

Hurry. You don't want to miss this opportunity of a lifetime.

p.s. Thank you, Bernadette.

Enter to Win a Kodak Prize Package Now by Creating Your Picture of Love

Get Married is offering brides a chance to win a Kodak Professional Collections Album and a Kodak Easyshare M590 Digital Camera (valued up to $1700) by simply sharing your Picture of Love by illustrating your personal love story with images.

Here’s what you need to do:

1. Follow this link to enter: http://www.getmarried.com/promotions/kodak/
2. Illustrate your personal love story with pictures
3. Using this special inspiration board designed specifically with your love story in mind, lay out all the important visual elements (via your favorite pictures) that show just how adorable you and your sweetie are together
4. On Valentine’s Day, Get Married’s editorial team will select the couple they feel is most inspiring.

That's it. Let me know if you win and I'll post your story on my blog.

New Bridal Craft Line from David Tutera

David Tutera just launched his new Bridal Craft line Down the Aisle in Style exclusively online at JoAnn Fabrics.
Check out these gorgeous crafts from one of my favorite celeb planners. These will also be available in one week at select JoAnn Fabric stores.

Happy shopping.