Calling all Washington, DC Metro Area Brides – Win a Free Wedding!

Would you like to have a $40,000 dream wedding?

Radio station MIX 107.3 FM has teamed up with Washington Bridal Showcase and WeddingWire to give one lucky couple from the Washington, DC Metro area a dream wedding, BUT they only have one week to plan!

Enter now to win a $40,000 wedding! With the help of area wedding professionals, you will get it all, from the dress to the reception and everything in between. Hurry! Registration ends at 5PM on Friday, January 7, 2011.

Winner will be announced on January 21 with the wedding to take place on Friday, January 28, 2011.

Enter here at: http://t.co/B486ksp

New Year's Eve Wedding

Watch the first-ever wedding in Times Square tomorrow night on New Year’s Eve sponsored by GetMarried.com.

Go to www.getmarried.com/times-square to watch the LIVE stream beginning at 6PM EST December 31, 2010. There will be various celebrity appearances, the wedding ceremony at 9PM and a performance by Taio Cruz and more.

Enjoy!

Wishing you a Happy New Year and a very prosperous 2011.

Happy Holidays!

I want to wish everyone a wonderful happy holiday and wishing each and everyone of you good health, happiness and prosperity.

Thank you to all my 2010 clients for making Smooth Weddings a success. I look forward to a great 2011!

See you next year!

Pantone Announces 2011 Color of the Year

Pantone just announced their 2011 Color of the Year - Honeysuckle! Isn't it gorgeous? I love this color.

I reprinted the announcement below directly from the Pantone website as I couldn't have said it any better.

What signature color will you choose for your 2011 wedding? If you don't have one yet, you might consider Honeysuckle.


A Color for All Seasons
Courageous. Confident. Vital. A brave new color, for a brave new world. Let the bold spirit of Honeysuckle infuse you, lift you and carry you through the year. It’s a color for every day – with nothing “everyday” about it.

While the 2010 color of the year, PANTONE 15-5519 Turquoise, served as an escape for many, Honeysuckle emboldens us to face everyday troubles with verve and vigor. A dynamic reddish pink, Honeysuckle is encouraging and uplifting. It elevates our psyche beyond escape, instilling the confidence, courage and spirit to meet the exhaustive challenges that have become part of everyday life.

“In times of stress, we need something to lift our spirits. Honeysuckle is a captivating, stimulating color that gets the adrenaline going – perfect to ward off the blues,” explains Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®. “Honeysuckle derives its positive qualities from a powerful bond to its mother color red, the most physical, viscerally alive hue in the spectrum.”

Eiseman continues, “The intensity of this festive reddish pink allures and engages. In fact, this color, not the sweet fragrance of the flower blossoms for which it was named, is what attracts hummingbirds to nectar. Honeysuckle may also bring a wave of nostalgia for its associated delicious scent reminiscent of the carefree days of spring and summer.”

Honeysuckle is guaranteed to produce a healthy glow when worn by both men and women. It’s a striking, eye-catching hue that works well for day and night in women’s apparel, accessories and cosmetics, and in men’s ties, shirts and sportswear. Add a lively flair to interior spaces with Honeysuckle patterned pillows, bedspreads, small appliances and tabletop accessories. Looking for an inexpensive way to perk up your home? Paint a wall in Honeysuckle for a dynamic burst of energy in the family room, kitchen or hallway.

Win a trip for two to the Esperanza Resort in Los Cabos, Mexico!

You can enter to win this Ultimate Romantic Getaway from Brides magazine and DailyCandy.

If money is tight, this would be the perfect mini-honeymoon.

Prize includes:

~Round trip coach tickets for two on Alaska Airlines
~4-night stay for two at the Esperanza Resort
~A couples massage
~Plus, first-class amenities and gourmet cuisine

Sponsored by Daily Candy, Esperanza and Alaska Airlines.

Go to brides.com and enter for your chance to win.

Hope you win!

Source: DailyCandy

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: The Food Network

Wedding of Norah and Casey - October 23, 2010

New wedding up. Check out "Wedding of Norah and Casey" under "Another Smooth Wedding" under the link on the left.

Thanks.

Announcing...

my newest adventure!

I am very excited to tell you about a new business I just founded. I have just launched a new online consignment store for quality new and gently used wedding and decorating items.

I have found that sometimes my clients have leftover items, such as vases or candles, that they don't know what to do with or don't have the storage space to keep them. I have thought about opening this type of store for a long time and have finally decided to go ahead and do it. I want this to grow to a place where a "budget-savvy" bride can shop and save money.

Since I am just beginning, my little online store only has four items right now (one of the items I'm featuring - wedding luminaries pictured above) that I happened to have had on hand. Therefore, I am soliciting all brides and newly marrieds to consider consigning your items at my store and make some money at the same time. For details, please go directly to my Web site at:
www.weddingconsignmentshoppe.webs.com.

Help me build my store and I'll help you make some money.

Thank you!

Wedding of Annabel and Ben - October 3, 2010

Latest wedding up. Check it out under "Another Smooth Wedding" on the left.

Enjoy!

If it's October...

that can mean only one thing. That's right! It is 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 Web site at: www.bridesagainstbreastcancer.org.

Or, have a Pink Envelope wedding reception. Visit www.pinkenvelopeproject.org 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 Web site to read all about it.

Think Pink!

Get Married to Host First-Ever Wedding in NY's Times Square on New Year's Eve 2011

Following is a press release from Get Married. Hurry! Only ten days left to submit your entry for a chance to be wed in NYC on New Year's Eve!

Get Married media TO host first-ever wedding WITH A MILLION GUESTS IN NEW YORK’s Times Square ON New Year’s eve 2011
Engaged couples across the country invited to submit today until October 1st
for a chance to “Get Married in Times Square”
ATLANTA, September 13, 2010 –– Get Married Media, a national multi-media wedding planning and lifestyle resource, today announced that it will host the first wedding ever live in New York’s Times Square during New Year’s Eve 2011 by partnering with Times Square Alliance and Countdown Entertainment, producers of the world’s most famous New Year’s Eve celebration. By submitting entries online at GetMarried.com now until October 1st, one lucky couple will have the chance of a lifetime opportunity; to win the wedding of their dreams, with the historic background of New Year’s Eve in Times Square, while sharing planning details and nuptials along the way with the Get Married online audience. The wedding will be witnessed by million people in Times Square and seen by millions of viewers around the world.

On New Year’s Eve 2011 before the annual Ball Drop, Get Married will host and broadcast live a truly unique and spectacular wedding event—Get Married in Times Square—for one deserving couple selected on www.GetMarried.com/Times-Square. As part of its mission to engage an interactive audience, Get Married will enable its online audience (www.GetMarried.com) to vote on key wedding elements provided by participating sponsors, including bridal gowns, bridesmaids gowns, tuxedos, wedding bands, wedding invitations and wedding cake. Each wedding component will be part of a virtual gallery of images and videos on GetMarried.com, providing information about the details its audience votes on, with the highest number of votes ultimately determining the wedding details for this extraordinary wedding in Times Square.

“We are ecstatic about hosting the very first wedding in the epicenter of New Year’s Eve excitement—New York’s Times Square—and we are looking for one special couple who wants to experience a true wedding adventure,” said Stacie Francombe, founder and editor-in-chief of Get Married Media. “Get Married promises the wedding of the decade and, with the iconic, vibrant and celebratory backdrop of Times Square, we welcome the opportunity to put one couple’s ‘I do’s’ in the limelight and in the hands of the passionate GetMarried.com audience.”

As the big day approaches, Get Married will fly the winning couple to New York City to meet with vendors, narrow their selection of wedding details, create webisodes showcasing voting options, and conduct media interviews about their unique wedding experience. The day of the wedding, Get Married will videotape the couple’s wedding preparations and various wedding elements—walk down the aisle, wedding vows, ring exchange, recessional—and by partnering with Times Square Alliance and Countdown Entertainment, co-producers of New Year’s Eve in Times Square, will broadcast it live for the world as well as on the large LED screens around Times Square. Immediately following the wedding, Get Married will host a reception for the couple’s friends and family at Hard Rock Cafe New York in Times Square.

“As part of this year’s global tradition of New Year’s Eve in Times Square, we are thrilled to help bring together two exciting celebrations into one magical and romantic occasion, both for the happy couple and the viewing crowd,” said Tim Tompkins, President, Times Square Alliance. “With the flashing lights and the unmatched energy of the excited revelers, this will surely be one of the signature moments of the 2011 New Year’s Eve celebration in Times Square.”

“We are thrilled to partner with Get Married Media to celebrate the biggest event of the year,” said Jeffrey Straus, President of Countdown Entertainment. “The first wedding ever on New Year’s Eve in Times Square will be witnessed by the million revelers on site and broadcast across the globe via our TSTV pool feed and worldwide webcast.”

Now through October 1, 2010, Get Married is accepting applications from couples across the country who have a great story to tell and also deserve this once in a lifetime opportunity.

For consideration, couples must read the eligibility criteria, application information as well as acknowledgements, consents and releases on www.GetMarried.com/Times-Square and their application must be legible, complete, and signed.
Submission process
- Log onto www.GetMarried.com/Times-Square
- Review eligibility criteria, application, consent forms
- Complete the entry form
- Upload an image of you and your fiancé
- Upload a video of you and your fiancé (optional)

About Get Married Media
Get Married Media is a national, integrated multi-media wedding planning resource that reaches passionate brides online (www.GetMarried.com) and in print (Get Married magazine) and through unique videos. Get Married connects brides with local and national wedding vendors and experts through entertainment and news.

Get Married magazine (distribution 300,000) is the distinctive shopping and trend guide for the savvy bride. Moving beyond the traditional ways of delivering a bridal publication, Get Married magazine offers the newest interactive technology, the latest trends in bridal shopping and style, and a colorful, fresh voice in the wedding genre. For more about Get Married magazine’s Microsoft Tag, visit www.getmarried.com/magazinetag for step-by-step instructions, including a free application download, a list of Tag-friendly phones, as well as an actual Tag to test on your mobile phone.

Get Married magazine and the online portal at www.GetMarried.com offers brides an interactive experience, including an online wedding shop offering wedding invitations, wedding favors, accessories and products as seen in the magazine, as well as a wedding blog, video segments from the show, articles, image galleries and wedding planning tools.

About Times Square New Year's Eve
The Times Square Alliance and Countdown Entertainment are the organizers of Times Square New Year's Eve. The Times Square Alliance works to improve and promote Times Square so that it retains the energy, edge and distinctiveness that have made it an icon of entertainment, culture and urban life. Countdown Entertainment, which represents the owners of One Times Square, and the New Year’s Eve Ball, is a marketing management and event production company specializing in the Times Square area.

About Hard Rock International
With a total of 169 venues in 52 countries, including 134 cafes and 14 Hotels/Casinos, Hard Rock International is one of the world's most globally recognized brands. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world's greatest collection of music memorabilia, which is displayed at its locations around the globe. Hard Rock is also known for its collectible fashion and music-related merchandise, Hard Rock Live performance venues and an award-winning website. In addition to the two flagship Seminole Hard Rock Hotels and Casinos in Tampa and Hollywood, Fla., Hard Rock Hotels/Casinos are located in Las Vegas, Biloxi, Orlando, Chicago, San Diego, Pattaya, Bali, Macau, Penang and Singapore. Additional hotel and casino projects have been announced in Punta Cana, scheduled to open in 2010; Panama, scheduled to open in 2012; and Hungary, Dubai and Abu Dhabi, scheduled to open in 2013. Hard Rock International is owned by Seminole Hard Rock Entertainment, Inc. For further details on Hard Rock Hotels and Casinos, visit www.hardrockhotels.com. For more information on Hard Rock International, visit www.hardrock.com.

Vow Renewal

I know. I know. Because of personal reasons, it's been a long time since I posted anything.

But, now I'm back and last week I was preparing for a vow renewal ceremony for a good friend of mine.

Read all about it by clicking on "Vow Renewal of Michael and Krista" on the left under "Another Smooth Wedding."

Enjoy!

Garters

Want to wear a garter but are afraid it may “rub” you the wrong way? Well, fear no more. Florrie Mitton Garters of the UK are constructed with the same high-end quality and construction as bras with no chance of itching because they are lined with silk.

The garters vary from a simple silk band and bow to an extravagant puff of soft tulle. You could have lace ruffles with scalloped or leaf edges and you’re done or add ornate, hand-beaded trimmings.

Check them out at: www.journelle.com and etsy.com. The garters range in price from $59-$92.

Hey everyone,

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, July 30 at Filene’s Basement, Mazza Gallerie, 5300 Wisconsin Avenue, Washington, D.C. from 8:00AM to 9:00PM. Cash, checks and credit cards accepted. All sales are final.

Below is more information and great tips directly from Filene's Basement.

CREATE YOUR TEAM We have just launched an exciting and fun way for you to recruit your team for the upcoming Running of the Brides® event. Simply add each of the members of your A-list, select a fun nickname, and upload their photo. The result is a customized invitation asking them to join you at this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Go to www.filenesbasement.com/running-of-the-brides.

ALTERATIONS ADVICE So what if you find a dress that you love, but it’s too big or too small, needs repair, or even re-styling? Maria Luz and her staff from Anytime Alterations of Silver Spring, MD will be at the Running of the Brides® all day to help. Winner of the Bride’s Choice Award 2010 byWeddingWire.com, they can tell you what can or cannot be altered, repaired or re-styled, and give you a ballpark price to do the work. www.anytimealterations.com

Here are some great tips to prepare you and your team for the Running of the Brides:

Thursday Night
--Drink lots of water
--Get a good night's sleep

Friday morning, before you leave the house

--Food is fuel - have a good breakfast
--Dress in a sports bra and bike shorts, leotard or swimsuit
--Leave your handbag behind; you'll want as little as possible to keep track of
--Don't wear make-up - it might rub off on the dresses
--No jewelry; last year, a bride-to-be lost her engagement ring when it got caught on a lacy dress

Best time to arrive at the store Friday morning

If you want to be part of the "rush to the racks" then plan to arrive by 6:30AM
Or, arrive later (anytime after 11AM) when things have calmed down and you can peruse the racks at your own pace; check out www.filenesbasement.com/campaign/late.php.

At the Sale

--Be considerate and play fair; please, please, please don't horde dresses; grab what you can, go through the dresses quickly and give up what you don't want so other brides can get started; Filene's Basement reserves the right to limit the number of gowns you can hold at one time.
--Be open-minded--try on whatever comes your way; if you focus too much on a specific style or label, you might just miss the dress of your dreams
--Remember, gowns usually run small; don't even look at size tags. Just eyeball the dress and if it's close to your size, try it on.
--Take a break if you get tired and cranky; grab some water
--Take pictures and have fun! These memories will last a lifetime.

Note: This event will likely be photographed and taped by local news outlets and by other photographers for possible broadcast or publication. By your entrance into and presence at the sale, you give unqualified consent to use, record and publicize your voice, actions, likeness and appearance in any manner in connection with news coverage and/or publicity. If you do not wish to be photographed or videotaped, please hold your hand up and inform the camera operator of your wishes. All photographers are required to have press credentials or Filene's Basement authorization tags visible to customers. If you have any questions, please locate a Filene's Basement manager.

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

July 3 Wedding

I'm back. My Internet has been out for the last two weeks and looks like it finally is back, hopefully to stay.

Check out my latest wedding under "Another Smooth Wedding." Page down on the left and click on the link for "Wedding of Norma and Patrick."

Tying the Knot

Hey guys! Don’t want the standard bow tie or tie that comes with the rented tux? Then, check out Pierrepont Hicks, a Minneapolis-based neckwear line. Their custom wedding ties are suitable, reasonably priced and can double as your groomsmen gifts.

All custom ties are made from Thomas Mason 100 percent cotton micro-cord. All you need to do is e-mail how many you need, choose your color from a choice of 37 colors and decide whether you want a bow tie or neck tie. You can even go a step further and have them monogrammed. Not sure if the color you see on your computer screen quite matches? You can order a swatch for $5 to cover shipping and handling.

Plan early as the custom-made ties will take approximately six to eight weeks for delivery and range in price from $42 - $82.

Check them out at www.pierreponthicks.com or e-mail at info@pierreponthicks.com.

Floral Design

I did flowers for a wedding today. They were such a sweet couple. I was referred to them by the bride’s hair stylist/makeup artist. Thank you, Erin. Had to deliver them this morning in DC at 9AM!

I spent all day and evening until 11PM yesterday assembling the flowers. Probably would have been done much earlier had it not been for phone calls and other of life’s little interruptions.

I made 7 bouquets, 3 mini-bouquets, 7 wrist corsages, a cake topper and 20 boutonnieres! Never had that many for one wedding before. Whew! It was a great experience, though. I sat down for most of the assembly, which I usually don’t do, but it actually worked really well and my feet didn’t ache by day's end.

The color scheme was dark purple and deep sage. The bride’s bouquet consisted of all white flowers of peonies, dahlias, lisianthus and waxflowers as a filler. I love how it came out. This might be my favorite one I designed yet. The bridesmaids bouquets had purple alstroemeria, white lisianthus and purple waxflowers. The boutonnieres consisted of purple waxflowers backed by a gardenia leaf with the exception of the Groom’s who had white waxflowers. Simple, yet elegant.

I took these photos and they don’t do them justice, but I hope you enjoy them anyway.

Thank you and congratulations, Rebekah and Josh!

Engagement Ring Shopping App Launching from Tiffany & Co.

How cool is this?

On Monday, June 14, you will be able to download a free iPhone app from Tiffany & Co. to browse and shop for engagement rings.

You will be able to look for diamond engagement rings by cut, setting, metal and design. They are all shown actual size in order for you to compare carats. When you see the one you love (and you know you will), you can even search for a complementing wedding band.

Don’t know what your ring size is? Not a problem for the app. It has a sizing feature, too.

You will be able to save your favs and e-mail them to your friends and family. You can also send a text message, Facebook or Twitter them.

When you are ready to make your purchase, just contact your local Tiffany & Co. and ask to speak with a consultant.

I think I’ll download it myself just for fun. Maybe I can find a sweet eternity ring to show my husband for a future anniversary present.

Happy shopping!

(Photo courtesy of Tiffany & Co.)

Today’s brides seem to buck tradition and go with something funky and different for their wedding attire. One of these is what they wear on their heads. No more the traditional veil. Now, brides are wearing feathers, flowers, bling – whatever!

Well, if you are one of these brides, here is something unique you may want to check out for your head attire. Look at the stunning headpieces from Lo Boheme. Designer, Lauren Christensen, uses feathers, flower clips, vintage costume jewelry, etc. that she finds at flea markets and estate sales.

If Lauren hasn’t already designed one that fits your style and personality, she can custom design a piece for you – maybe using lace from your mother’s gown or other sentimental item. Keep in mind custom orders can take approximately four to six weeks. So plan and order in plenty of time.

You can check out all headpiece designs at: www.loboheme.com. Prices range from $25 - $195. Custom orders range from $120 - $400. You may also send an e-mail to: loboheme@gmail.com.

(Photo courtesy of Lo Boheme's Web site)

A New Way to Show that Age Old Tradition of Something Blue

Here is a unique and distinctive way to show your “something blue.” How about a blue temporary bridal tattoo?

For only $36, you can have the look of a tattoo without it being permanent. The designs range from Cupid to hearts to roses. There are a total of eight designs from which to choose. You will actually receive two tattoos – one for practice and one to wear on your wedding day.

Your tattoo will arrive in a beautiful keepsake folio which can double as a photo frame to fit a 5 x 7 of you showing off your tattoo.

Check out I Do Tattoo to find your perfect design for your wedding day.

Beautiful Shoes

I love Kate Spade. I was looking at her site recently and discovered these very cute shoes – from flats to heels. I’m thinking bridesmaids. Select styles come in several colors. Wouldn’t these be ever so cute on your favorite ladies’ feet? Of course, Kate Spade also has shoes for you, too, the bride.

Check out her site at www.katespade.com to find the perfect shoe for you and your bridesmaids.

DIY Project

Are you the crafty type as well as budget conscious, but still want to make a great impact for your wedding? If so, this may be the project for you. Saw this on a friend’s blog with the original idea coming from Project Wedding. I love that site! They always find the greatest things.

This colorful mobile would look great for a wedding shower or daytime wedding reception to make your room “pop!” The great thing is, you can make this in any color so you can match your color scheme. I am actually thinking of doing this for my daughter’s 18th birthday party in the bright colors she wants. She’s the sewer in our family, so she’ll be able to whip these up in no time.

Have fun! I know I will.

Those Garters

If you choose to keep with tradition and have your groom remove your garter, consider a custom made one especially for you. Roarke New York, known for their beautiful, custom beaded necklaces, has recently launched into the bridal world by making custom garters.

You choose your color, then select either black or white lace which is finished off with light beading.

Whether you choose to have it removed in front of all your guests or reserve it only for your groom, this is an elegant accessory that you will love to wear.

Your custom garter will set you back $125, but may well be worth it to have as a treasured keepsake.

To place your order, call 202-494-5789 or e-mail to info@roarkenyc.com. Visit them online at roarkenyc.com to see different styles.

Photo credit Roarke New York

Please Vote for My Blog

My blog was recently interviewed by bloginterviewer.com. At the end of April, they are giving away $1,000 in prizes to the top 18 rated bloggers. I would like to be one of those winners!

You can help me by voting for my blog. Go to: http://bloginterviewer.com/fashion/weddings-and-more-patti-wilson and click on the “Vote Now” button directly under my blog title. That’s all there is to it. I really appreciate it.

Thank you!

Funky, Whimsical Portraits

Got this from Daily Candy again. First, let me say I love Daily Candy. They find the cutest, newest and funkiest things.

Second, this is their latest, funkiest find. If you like quirky, fun and different things, then this might be for you. You can have a different kind of “official wedding portrait” created by artist, Nan Lawson.

Just send in a photo of the two of you, trademark looks and/or describe the clothes you want to be wearing in the portrait, such as your favorite sports team T-shirts, etc. You will then receive a proof. When you have approved the proof, you will receive an eight-by-ten original art piece in about six weeks along with a digital version that you can reprint on your invitations, programs, etc.

Your commissioned artwork will cost approximately $40, which actually is very reasonable for an original piece of art – an investment that will last a lifetime.
You can e-mail Nan directly at lawsonbuckets@gmail.com or visit her Web site at: www.nanlawson.com.

Enjoy!

Photo credit Nan Lawson

Cover Up

Outdoor weddings are lovely. Especially, if you have one of these unique and colorful tents to help “cover up” your guests, making them feel as if they were inside a beautiful room.

I just discovered these tents through my reading of Daily Candy. These are pretty funky and I fell in love with them as soon as I saw them. They have nine styles from which to choose. If none of those appeal to you, they will create a custom one just for you. Check them out at: www.boutiquetents.net.

New Contest

For all of you engaged couples out there, I am running a new contest for the month of April. No, this is not an April Fool’s joke.

Here’s the contest – simply stated. Go to my Web site at: www.smoothweddings.com. Find the following statement and fill in the blank. Shoot me an e-mail at: pwilson@smoothweddings.com with the completed sentence:

“I believe that planning a wedding should be _____ ____________ ____________.”

That’s it. The winner will be the first correct entry drawn from a hat on Thursday, April 8, 2010. See the fine print below for further details.

What do you win, you ask? The winner will receive a discount on my All Inclusive Planning services. That’s a $250 value!

The Fine Print:

Must become a fan of Smooth Weddings, LLC, if not already

Must use a valid e-mail address

Entries must be received on or before April 8, 2010 by 12PM, EST/DST. Winner will be drawn at 1PM, EST/DST.

Wedding must take place in 2010 and be held in the Northern VA/MD/DC area

That’s it!

If you are already a fan but are not engaged or already married, please pass this along to your engaged friends.

Wishing you the best!

Simply Charming

Now, here is something truly unique and “charming” to give your bridesmaids. Designer Allison Nowlin, aka Madame Fortuna , makes custom charm bracelets. You tell her the name and birthday as well as maybe a favorite memory or drink and personal style of each of your besties. She will then shop at flea markets, thrift stores or estate sales to find the perfect, unique and vintage charms for each of your ladies. She may even include a small watch face set to the time of your wedding.

All you have to do is send Madame Fortuna an e-mail with your ideas and she’ll design it until it’s just what you want. Her e-mail is: madamefortuna@gmail.com.

So cute! Get one for yourself, too.

Photo courtesy of Madame Fortuna Web site.

Quick Checklist for Wedding Planning

As you are beginning to plan for your wedding, you may be wondering just where to begin. Well, I have developed a little quick checklist for all the different wedding professionals and services to consider that you will need to hire and/or purchase, rent, etc.

This list is for the purpose of just giving you a little head start in the planning process. If you would like my complete Bride's and Groom's To Do lists, just shoot me an e-mail and I will be glad to send you one.

These items are listed in no particular order of importance.

Consultant/Coordinator
Ceremony/Reception musicians or DJ
Ceremony site
Reception site
Officiant
Florist
Photographer
Videographer
Caterer
Wedding cake
Servers, bartenders, etc. if having a DIY reception
Seamstress for alterations
Save-the-Dates, Invitations, etc.
Paper products (personalized napkins, etc.)
Transportation (limousine, other)
Rentals (arch, tents, linens, etc.)
Entertainment for children – coloring books, games, small toys, etc.
Jeweler
Accommodations for out-of-town guests
Rehearsal dinner location

Happy planning!

Planning: Ten Biggest Pre-Wedding Mistakes

Even the smartest, most organized couple can make mistakes during wedding planning. Below are ten things you should keep an eye on before walking down that aisle.

1. Budget, what budget?
If you have started planning your wedding, you know it can cost a lot of money. Many excited brides start booking wedding professionals and making purchases without having a real budget, and then they're shocked to discover they've spent all of their money (or their parents' money) and still don't have half the things they need. If you bounce checks, don't have the money to pay your deposits, or make your final payments past your wedding professionals’ deadlines, your wedding will not happen as you have planned. The flowers won't be delivered, your cake will not be decorated, and the band will not play all night -- unless you don't pay up. Planning a wedding is serious business. Make a budget and keep track of your expenses.

2. Wedding gown/bridesmaid dresses ordered too late.
If you are not going to buy your gown “off the rack,” then you need to place your gown order six to eight months prior to your wedding. Most gowns are made to order. If you wait too long before your wedding date to make your selection, you may risk the gown not arriving on time. Bridesmaid dresses should also be decided upon during the same time period, but only after your gown has been selected. You want to make sure your ladies have enough time to get measured and find accessories.

3. Not hiring wedding professionals.
Seriously. Would you have a friend fix a plumbing problem? Of course not. You would want a professional plumber to come in and do the job right. Same goes for your wedding. You want professionals who do this for a living – photographers, videographers, florists, wedding coordinators, etc. They have the experience and skills to help you have the wedding of your dreams. Don’t risk your friendships by depending upon them to do a professional’s job. There are wedding professionals that fit every style and budget. Rely on them to keep you stress-free.

4. Marriage license application woes.
Since every state has their own set of policies for marriage licenses, brides are bound to make mistakes. Be sure to investigate time restrictions well in advance of your wedding date. Get your license 31 days before in some states -- and you won't be able to legally marry on your wedding day because it may be valid for only 30 days. Go for your license the day before your wedding and you may not get it in time, because some states have a 48-hour waiting period. Another common mess-up if you're remarrying: not having official divorce papers in time to get the certificate. Be sure to check your state’s marriage laws.

5. Out-of-town guests have a room?
Brides often leave blocking out hotel rooms for out-of-town guests until the last minute. If you're marrying in a city (particularly one where conventions take place) or in a resort town and you don't investigate hotel availability in advance, you can literally end up with not a single room for any of your guests to stay in. Your wedding might go on -- but no one will be able attend. Reserve a room block as early as possible, up to a year in advance, in some cases.

6. Inviting too many guests.
Make sure your guest list and your reception site match numbers-wise. You can't invite 400 people assuming only 250 will RSVP with a yes (because your “must-have” reception site can only hold 250). What if 300 happen to say yes, you may have to turn 50 away at the door. Some sites may not be able to add several more tables, as fire laws limit the maximum number of people in any room at one time. To avoid this, assume 80% will respond "yes" and limit your guest list accordingly.

7. Beauty treatments scheduled too late.
Many brides think that scheduling chemical peels the week before their weddings will leave their skin looking angelic on their big days. Others think having their teeth bleached within days of their weddings will leave those pearly whites sparkling. Thinking of tanning the day before your wedding? Remember that scene in “The Wedding Planner?” You may end up with blisters instead of sun-kissed skin. Last-minute beauty treatments can lead to breakouts, mistakes, or -- even worse -- serious infections. Start a long-term beauty regimen months before the big day and save the heavy-duty beauty treatments (i.e. chemical peels, micro-dermabrasion, extracting facials, deep-tanning sessions, teeth whitening, and so on) for at least two weeks before the big day, or you could risk ruining all the hard work you've done to make your wedding -- and photos - perfect. (Never mind putting your health and happiness at risk for the most important day of your life.)

8. Invitations – didn’t put enough postage on the envelopes?
You'd be surprised how many brides just stick a 44-cent stamp on their invites and drop them in the mailbox. All but a few wedding invitations require additional postage. The postal service will not take pity on you -- your invites will be returned (and rubber-stamped with that ugly "insufficient postage" message) -- and it will take at least two weeks (never mind the additional $$) to get them back out the door. Always take a complete invitation to the post office to be weighed before purchasing all your stamps.

9. Ignoring religious restrictions.
Think your rabbi didn't mean it when he said you needed to cover your arms in the temple? Guess again. If you plan on marrying in a church, synagogue, etc., you need to abide by their rules. Wearing inappropriate attire or not completing pre-wedding requirements could be grounds for your Officiant to stop your wedding before it begins. As soon as you get engaged, be sure to contact your house of worship to find out about any potential issues. Some houses of worship won't let you marry on certain holy days; make sure to check your wedding date with your Officiant before putting down any deposits for your reception site or wedding professionals.

10. Rain or shine? Don’t ignore weather warnings.
Brides marrying outdoors often test fate and just wish for the best when it comes to bad weather. Always have a backup plan, or else you may not have a place to marry at all -- or your guests (and you) may be in misery at the hands of Mother Nature. Temperatures normally around the balmy 70-degree mark may unexpectedly turn into a boiling 100-degree debacle – have fans available for guests and it wouldn’t hurt to have bottles of water, too. A hurricane, flashflood, or gale force winds may visit on your wedding day; make sure you have an interior alternative or a tent as a back-up location.

Just discovered these in the latest online wedding issue of My Daily Candy. Oh, my. When I saw these, my mouth started watering.

Wouldn’t these be fantastic little gifts for your wedding guests? I know I would love to receive these as I was departing the reception.

A fairly new company called, Panna Dolce, makes these airy, very French macarons. They come in myriad flavors from raspberry ganache to Key lime. They can be shipped anywhere around the world and you can even custom order them in your own colors and flavors. Another benefit – all their macarons are 100% gluten and wheat free.

Check them out and see if your mouth doesn’t start to water, too.

Photos from Panna Dolce Web site.

Cute New Favor Box

Is your color scheme using the color of the year – turquoise? Then, you may want to look at these new favor boxes from Kate Aspen.

The white boxes come with a patterned sleeve in an “elegant damask pattern in rich, dark chocolate that is softened by the joyous shade of turquoise on the overlay.” These favor boxes also come with a personalized label with your first names and wedding date.

So cute. I love these!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Hope everyone went "green" today.

Here's an Irish joke for ya'll.

During a recent password audit at the Bank of Ireland it was found that Paddy O'Toole was using the following password:

MickeyMinniePlutoHuey
LouieDeweyDonaldGoofyDublin

When asked why he had such a long password, Paddy replied. "Bejazus! Are yez frickin' stupid? Shore Oiy was told me password had to be at least eight characters long and include one capital."

Have a very "green" day today!

Pretty Funky and Unique Scarves

If you are looking for something different to give your bridesmaids, then you may want to check out Leigh & Luca scarves. These scarves are feminine and will make a statement wherever they are seen.

They are on the pricier side, so these aren’t for the real budget conscience bride, but if money is no object and you want to give your bridesmaids something really special, check them out.

Photo courtesy of Leigh & Luca

Filene's Basement Spring Designer Event

No, this is not the annual Running of the Brides for wedding gowns. However, if you are looking for designer clothes at great prices, you don't want to miss this sale.

Filene's Basement's annual high-end courture sale is now underway. You can find name brands, such as, Dolce & Gabbana, Gucci, Alexander McQueen, Valentino, Chloe and much more for 30 - 80 percent off.

Hurry, because through Sunday, March 14, you will be able to take an extra ten percent off your entire purchase. This includes regular, sale and clearance items. Print off a copy of the above coupon and take it with you when you shop.

Spring Forward

For all of you who are having weddings tomorrow, don't forget to set your clocks forward one hour before saying goodnight.

One nightmare I would have would be to wake up the next morning to find out I missed my flight to Hawaii for my honeymoon. Don't let that happen to you.

Have your DJ remind everyone at the reception to set their clocks ahead before going to sleep Saturday night. That way, your guests won't miss their flight back home either.