DIY
WEDDINGS I N S P I R A T I O N A L
I D E A S
FALL 2011
10 Real
Weddings Fall Recipes
do it for less! experts
Posh Veils Collection
Handmade Vintage Veils
Woof! Include Fido In Your Wedding Ceremony And Create A Lifetime Moment
DIY Wedding Flowers
with Angie Zimmerman 1
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
Meet Our New DIY Experts! DIY Flower Expert - p. 10 In 1991, Angie Zimmerman gave up her corporate job to see if she could make a living doing what she loved...working with flowers. Angie started out with a flower shop in the Bay Area doing flowers and gift baskets, when she relocated to El Dorado Hills, Ca. she turned her focus to weddings and special events only. In December 2008, Angie released a Do It Yourself Wedding Flower Guide. The guide consists of a workbook with step by step instructions and 5 DVD’s showing you exactly what you have to do to create beautiful, lasting wedding flowers.
Event Planning Expert - p. 106 Jennifer McAdam is the owner of Jennifer Lynn Events, a full service wedding and special event planning company that services Connecticut and beyond. Jennifer came to the field of event planning with creative and upbeat energy, a love for all things classy and elegant as well as an unmatched desire to help brides and grooms plan the most fabulous day of their lives – their wedding celebration. Jennifer Lynn Events has grown to become one of the most sought after wedding planning companies in Connecticut. Your event will be nothing short of spectacular.
CEO+MANAGING EDITOR+PUBLISHER K. Stelmachers SENIOR COPY EDITOR R. Brown COPY EDITOR P. Stelmachers ADVERSTING INQUIRES info@diyweddingsmag.com ONLINE www.diyweddingsmag.com DIY Weddings Magazine is published quarterly by The Mrs. Network, LLC. CUSTOMER SERVICE AND INQUIRES www.diyweddingsmag.com info@diyweddingsmag.com FACEBOOK www.facebook.com\diyweddings TWITTER www.twitter.com\diyweddingsmag All reasonable efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in DIY Weddings Magazine. Editorial content is intended as general information. Publisher assumes no responsibility and makes no recommendations for claims made by advertisers and shall not be liable for any damages incurred as a result of our reliance on any information contained in this publication. Copyright 2011 The Mrs. Network, LLC. All rights reserved. Cover and content may not be reproduced in whole or part by electronic or mechanical means without written permission from Publisher.
Publisher’s Note Where has the summer gone? One thing we have to look forward to, is the temperatures cooling down. It has been a sizzling summer. The exciting news? We just celebrated our First Anniversary! We made it! I want to take a moment and thank Christopher Macken for being our first partner, for your support and friendship. It is such an honor to have you as a partner. We also want to wish you a Happy Birthday this September! A special thanks to my best friend in Atlanta, Elizabeth Kistler for your amazing PR, support and friendship! We WILL meet one of these days. Many thanks to: Culinary Delights’ Denise Vivaldo & Cindie Flannigan of Do-it-for-less! Weddings, Seattle Officiant-Annemarie Juhlian, Sabrina Kuratana of A Cake Dream, Jenny and Liz of Something Old Something New, Alexandra Nicole of Alexandra Nicole Design, Two Bright Lights, all the photographers and vendors who have shared their beautiful works of art with us. We could not have done it without you! Here is to another fabulous year of diy weddings. Cheers!
Kym Stelmachers CEO/The Mrs. Network, LLC
Do you have a wedding idea or diy projects to share? Do you have a wedding product you want reviewed and featured? Come share it with us.
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
A MUST READ FOR THE BUDGET SAVVY BRIDE DO IT FOR LESS ! W EDDINGS
BUY IT AT AMAZON .COM
contents features
CONNECT WITH US
10 DIY Wedding Flower Guide Angie Zimmerman 14 iDIY: Redefining DIY For The Modern Bride Heidi Markgraf 16 Posh Veils The Posh Veil Collection Sharon Chironda
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30 Woof! Include Fido In Your Wedding Ceremony And Create A Lifetime Moment Annemarie Juhlian 34 The Cake Pop Stand Robert Edward Woodworking 36 Family Style Menu For Fall do it for less! Experts Denise Vivaldo & Cindie Flannigan
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
44 A Real DIY Wedding Something Old, Something New Liz Stanton & Jenny Greenway 48 The Groom’s Survival Guide Simply The Best Man 50 Ask M Famous Lifestyle advice from Christopher Macken
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Meet Our DIY Experts!
Lifestyle Advice Expert - p. 50
Do It For Less! Wedding Experts - p. 36 A 20 year culinary veteran, Denise Vivaldo teaches seminars and workshops across the country and has trained many of the stylists working in Los Angeles today. In 1988 Denise founded Food Fanatics, a catering, recipe-development, and food-styling firm based in Los Angeles, California. Since that time she has catered more than 10,000 events. Events such as the Academy Awards Governor’s Ball, Sunset Magazine’s Taste of Sunset, and Hollywood wrap parties. She has also catered and styled food for countless local and nationally syndicated television shows including The Ellen DeGeneres Show, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and Inside the Dish with Rachel Ray. Denise is also the author of How to Start a Home-Based Catering Business, Do it for less! Weddings and Do it for less! Parties.
Christopher Macken, makeup artist, businessman, blogger, image consultant, and lifestyle stylist....From the cosmetic line he designed, to the honest answers he provides to clients in need of his chic eye for fashion, Christopher Macken's talents are many. He has worked to create The House of M Famous and Christopher Macken Concepts, the parent companies for Christopher Macken Cosmetics and Ask M Famous. Having trained under some of the best in the business and boasting a lustrous decade long career, Christopher continues to expand the House of M Famous with the newest installment, Mr. M Famous. So, Ask M Famous! Christopher Macken answers those tough questions and provides a witty and refreshing look at planning your perfect day!
Design Expert - p. 98
Wedding Planning Experts - p. 44 Meet Jenny Greenway & Liz Stanton of Something Old, Something New. Liz Stanton and Jenny Greenway started the wedding planning company, Something Old, Something New, in Atlanta, GA after planning Liz’s wedding in 2006. The sisters love all things weddings and turning a bride’s vision into a reality. In 2010, they also started a blog to share wedding ideas and tips with brides. Liz and Jenny are focused on making sure that a couple’s wedding day is a memory they’ll have forever.
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Cindie Flannigan has been styling, designing, and teaching with Food Fanatics since 2001. After 20 years of working as an art director and graphic designer, Cindie enrolled at the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco. Cooking for family and friends had always given her such joy that she decided to make a career out of food. Cindie styles food for print and television, developing and testing recipes and materials. She is also the webmaster of www.foodfanatics.com
Meet graphic designer Alexandra Nicole of Alexandra Nicole Design. Alexandra considers herself to be three things: A designer. An optimist. An enthusiast. She has a love for all things beautiful, crafty, & stylish. While she adores all things beautiful, crafty, and more {hence her lovely blog}, she has a slight obsession for weddings and a passion for design.
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
contents features
CONNECT WITH US
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{Real Weddings} 52 56 60 64 68 72 76 80 84 88
Paige & Dane, California Kelly & John, Tennessee Kali & Tom, California Jessie & Jay, Washington Megan & Brian, New York Rosemary & Cesar, New York April & Michael, Pennsylvania Gwyneth & Charles, Dist. Of Columbia Amber & Sean, Montana Gianna & Courtland, Nevada
92 Etsy.com Love Becca & Louise The Shoe Collection
102 Antique Gold Wedding Cake Sabrina Kuratana
98 The Fall Collection Alexandra Nicole Design
106 To Spend Or Not To Spend Jennifer McAdam
101 Cookie Art Art Gallery Cookies
108 Country Style Wedding Country inspired photo shoot Christy Whitehead Photography
104 Posh Petals & Pearls 96 Stylish Weddings The Boutonniere How to wear your boutonniere Tara Skinner & Ashley Greene
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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SPOTLIGHT | Fleur Daily
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
Enjoy these sweet, 100% fat free cupcake vases Flexible, non breakable and spill resistant Made from safe, non-latex EVA, they are re-usable and recyclable Placement holes and central dome shape create the perfect arrangement every time Simply squeeze the top to open, fill or clean At 4.5� x 4� these vases make an impressive yet low profile table centerpiece for festive occasions and weddings. Designed with professional or DIY florists in mind, these non-breakable vases are ideal for transporting. They also come with a carry strap. Best of all there is no need for floral foam. You can get your cupcake vase in bubblegum, vanilla, lavender, chocolate, raspberry or lemon at Fleur Daily. {cupcakevase.com}
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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SPOTLIGHT | WineVeil
VEIL
wine
The wine VEIL is a new product. Its main function is to protect open and poured wine from insects and other flying objects such as leaves or dirt. The form of the Wine VEIL is soft and simple. It is made from a 5�x 5� finished piece of organza or other like material and is weighted on each corner. The corners are weighted with charms. The effect is a sheer drape or VEIL over a wine glass, decanter or bottle. Outside dining and socializing often includes wine. As glasses are at rest, they are the perfect target/sugar source for a variety of insects. Insects such as fruit flies and gnats and wasps, enjoy a dip in a wine glass when afforded the opportunity. Wine drinkers are usually not in favor of unwanted bugs floating in their precious wine. Enter the wine VEIL. A beautiful and sheer piece of fabric with stylishly weighted corners. The perfect solution. The bugs stay out and the wine can breathe. The VEILs enhance the look of the wine glass at rest. Kelly Egan and Karen Knauer are the founding Partners of Wine VEIL, LLC. Their vision is simple. Protect the wine with out swatting or spraying the bugs away. Enhance the beauty of the wine in the glass. Kelly and Karen have known each other for over 25 years. They have been working toward the business opportunity throughout their friendship. As entrepreneurs, they have successfully created and built businesses. Karen is a renowned Photographer and Kelly is a creative business leader. Together, their unique skills are synergistic and result in a solid and dynamic partnership.
CONNECT WITH US www.wineveil.com
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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Photography: Karen Knauer, Founding Partner of wineVeil
DIY FLOWERS | DIY Wedding Flower Guide
Making Corsages & Boutonnieres B Y ANGIE Z IMMERMAN
Boutonnieres can almost be considered a mini version of a corsage. You start by wiring and taping your flowers. The flower choices you make are important because your corsages and boutonnieres don’t have a water source. So you want to pick flowers that will hold up without a water source for the duration of your big day. I have seen lots of magazines and beautiful color, hard bound books by people you know and trust that show pictures of corsages and boutonnieres that frankly, I’m surprised even held up for the photo shoot. So, here are some flower choices that will hold up better than others. Depending upon where you live and what the climate is like at the time you are making your corsages and boutonnieres, some additional flowers can be attempted.
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Angie also teaches flower arranging classes via her own internet TV channel, http://flowerarranging101.tv.
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
Once you have selected your flowers you must select the size wire to use. You can pretty much universally use #22 gauge wire. It is sold typically in small packages at craft stores, pre-cut to about 17-1/2-inches long. If you can buy wholesale, you will find it typically in packages of about 300 pieces. The size of the wire is thicker the smaller the number. So, a #16 gauge wire is pretty thick and not typically used for a corsage or boutonniere. However, I have used that size wire when I am wiring cymbidium orchids to go into a bridal bouquet. I need that thickness so that the wire won’t bend while I am adding those flowers into the bouquet. Your typical wire gauges are #16, #18, #20, #22, #24 and #26. The #26 gauge wire is really thin and not typically used for wiring flowers. However, It can be used for binding corsage bows! You can also buy wire in what is called a “paddle”. When ordering you would call it paddle wire. In that case, the wire is wrapped around a core and is one continuous piece of wire. I don’t recommend this type of wire when making corsages and boutonnieres because it is not straight and therefore harder to insert through a flower without causing damage to the flower. It is not impossible to use, just not recommended. Remember, I’m trying to make this easy for you! Another thing that is great to have on hand is Floral Adhesive. It is made by OASIS and is a fabulous product! There are some florists who don’t wire and tape their flowers at all any more and instead glue them together. I like to use a combination of the two. Wiring is more secure for the heavier flowers than gluing them. But, some of the filler flowers are very small and light weight and work well to just glue them into the mix.
Flowers & Fillers
Flowers that hold up better than others include the following: Roses Carnations Stephanotis Mini Calla Lilies Orchids Hypericum Berries Freesia Alstromeria Mums Daisies Lisianthus Other Flowers that may hold up if it is not too HOT (75 degrees or colder) include the following: Dahlia Delphinium Florets Ranunculus Chocolate Cosmos Aged Hydrangea Gardenia Suitable filler flowers and greenery for corsages and boutonnieres include:
The tape that you will use is called STEM TAPE or STEM WRAP. It comes in several colors, but, typically, you will use light green which is closest to the natural color of most flower stems, or green (a darker green) that matches stem colors very well. To change up the look, you can use a different color like brown, olive green or white. Stem tape is only sticky on one side. It sticks to itself only. So, it is really important that when you start to wrap your stem that you have the sticky side down. If not, your tape won’t hold. Let’s start wiring and taping your flowers.
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
Borinia Bupleurum Eriostemon Baby’s Breath (gypsophilia) Heather Misty Blue, White, Pink Monte Casino Solidaster Statice Waxflower Italian ruscus Israeli ruscus Leather leaf fern Galax Myrtle Ming fern Plumosa Tree Ferm Lily Grass Bear Grass
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DIY FLOWERS | DIY Wedding Flowers Guide
Making a Rose Corsage or Boutonniere B Y A NGIE Z IMMERMAN
NOTE: You will follow these instructions for wiring and taping carnations, alstromeria and lisianthus also.
Step 1: Cut a piece of wire about 5 inches long.
Step 2: Stick one end of the wire into the receptacle and push it through almost half way, then bend the wire down to form a hair pin around the stem.
Step 3: Take your stem tape and start as far up underneath the petals as you can get and pull the tape tight as you wrap it around the rose. Make sure you have covered the insertion points of the wire really well. This will help keep the flower alive!
Step 4: Wrap the tape all the way down to the end of the wire stem.
Step 5: You can cut the tape or just tear it. Make sure you wrap enough tape around the flower so that when you pin it on you have tape to pin through. NOTE: Sometimes the sepal petals are bent downwards and are in your way of wiring and taping. Certain roses just grow this way. A Vendella rose (ivory in color) is one that comes to mind that is always this way. It makes it very challenging to wire and tape. My advice is to do your best. If you can’t maneuver your fingers underneath the sepals and wrap the tape really tight, then wrap the tape over the sepals or carefully trim them so that you can tape underneath. You don’t want to just tear the sepals off, because they help hold the flower together. If you tear them off, your petals will start to come apart. Most roses don’t have this issue. But, I don’t want you to be surprised and not know what to do if you run into a rose that has this complication.
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
DIY Wedding Flower Guide | FLOWERS
Step 6: I personally prefer to use baby roses or spray roses for corsages. They are smaller and look prettier than a trio of large roses, in my opinion. They are also lighter in weight and therefore, more comfortable to wear. Often, a trio of roses is so heavy that it is really hard to pin on to a dress and stay where you want it to stay. The weight will shift and the corsage will lean to one side or another. Not only does this not look good, but it is also uncomfortable for the person wearing it. The fabric is pulled and just doesn’t look right. So, the lesson here is to use smaller roses for corsages!!! If you are only doing one flower, for a boutonniere or a really small, token corsage, then a larger rose will be okay. I like to use 5-6 baby or spray roses with greenery and sometimes filler and a ribbon bow accent. So you want to wire and tape all your roses first. I recommend using various sizes of wires so that when you put them all together the wire stems don’t get too thick.
Step 7: Go back and add greenery. Just use a tip or small leaf of greenery and tape it to the back of the rose with the same stem tape. Once you have all your roses and greenery taped you can start to put them together.
Step 8: I start with the shortest wire and add the next longest wired flower to the first with your stem tape. You have to hold the stems together the way you want them to appear and tape them into that position. This will probably make more sense when you watch the DVD and see what needs to be done. Anyway, I keep adding the next flower and taping it until I have all the flowers wrapped together.
Step 9: Add a small bow made out of ribbon that compliments the corsage in color and size. You will normally use a # 3 (9/16 of an inch wide). You add the bow to the bottom of the corsage and tape it onto the wired stems of the roses.
Step 10: Lastly, I like to give the ends a twirl, often referred to as a pig tail (because it resembles a pig tail). This is a matter of taste and you may prefer to leave the stems straight. I use a hyacinth stake to wrap the wire around; you could use a thin pencil or any other object you can fine that is the right size.
Step 11: Don’t forget to add a couple of corsage pins to the stem and then place in a plastic bag or corsage box.
Step 12: Give the corsage a spray with water or hydrating liquid and put it into the refrigerator. This is not optional, as the corsage does not have a water source and will die if left at room temperature for very long.
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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ADVICE | MagnetStreet Weddings
iDIY: Redefining DIY for the
Modern Bride
Heidi Markgraf
Type and texture. Style and structure. These are some of my favorite things. Hi, I’m Heidi and I have the awesome privilege of bringing you these expressions by way of cool, creative designs and really lovely weddings via MagnetStreet’s wedding blog Truly Engaging.
At any given moment, the virtual wedding world is bustling and burgeoning with creative ideas and do-it-yourself {DIY} projects—for any wedding style. With immediate access to a vast array of wedding blogs and other online resources, the modern bride is never more than a few clicks away from jaw-dropping and swoon -worthy inspiration. The potential to create her dream wedding is virtually limitless! Imaginative & Highly Personalized Modern weddings are creative and highly personalized. Gone are the days of cookie-cutter events; today’s weddings are all about expressing the personal style of the couple—from attire and décor to theme and wedding stationery. Desire to “Design” & a Love of “Doing” DIY is a handcrafted expression of personal style and a great way to get the desired wedding look. We tip our hats to the passion, prowess and dedication of every DIY bride who delves in with heart and soul to handcraft her wedding and specifically her wedding stationery. The amount of time, talent and tools needed to accomplish such a feat is awesome and we applaud you!
Passion for Personalization For the rest of us, a digital substitute for DIY may be a better way to express ourselves. iDIY—MagnetStreet’s online version of DIY wedding stationery—a celebration of the artistic spirit and the passion to personalize. If you can imagine walking through a virtual door that opens into a world of creative possibilities with colors, fonts, photos and wording, then you’ve imagined the creative concept behind iDIY wedding stationery. Redefining DIY Wedding Stationery for the Modern Bride In this creative world of possibilities, the modern bride becomes the designer, owning the look and feel of the design. She has a plethora of personalization options, and can freely create without needing to be an accomplished artist, purchase stamps, scissors and software, or bear the responsibility of flawless printing. iDIY is virtually DIY! Why the i ? integration - Combines both the “doing” and the “designing” elements of DIY into a digital and fun alternative. innovation - Sophisticated design editing tools allow the bride to freely create and own the design. interaction - Hands-on personalization plus the pleasure of folding, affixing and assembling stationery items at home. inspiration - Peruse mood boards, color palettes and font guides, plus hundreds of design and wording options. individualization - The ability to transform any design to create truly unique and memorable wedding stationery.
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
MagnetStreet Weddings | ADVICE
iDIY ♥ Passion to design. ♥ Passion to create. ♥ Passion to express your individual style.
How would you like to give iDIY a try? Celebrate your passion to personalize and enjoy 10% off any wedding stationery items when you use promo code iDIY10. This offer is good through 12/31/11 and isn’t valid with other offers.
With iDIY, the modern bride has all the freedom of DIY without the heavy investment of time and tools. With iDIY comes the satisfaction of designing it yourself, the peace of mind from professional printing, and all the enjoyment of hands-on folding, affixing and assembling of stationery items at home. This digital approach is the perfect alternative for the modern bride who has the passion to personalize but for whom DIY is not an option.
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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FASHION | Posh Veils
elegant and classic Pearl beaded appliquĂŠ and a handmade satin bow. $74.99 CDN
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DIYWEDDINGS WEDDINGS || diyweddingsmag.com diyweddingsmag.com DIY
Posh Veils | FASHION
POSH
Veils
Posh Veils owner, Sharon Chironda from Toronto, Canada says she has a lot of interests and passions
that allow her to imagine and create: photography, cooking, sewing, knitting and baking. She never knows where her next inspiration for a new collection will come from but she is mostly inspired by vintage and modern elements: art, architecture, music, and nature. Sharon loves pairing the old with the new: the fusion of classic and current. Her veils have the style and glamour of the 1920’s and 1950’s. Sharon says “If I could meet two style icons from the past, I’d love to meet Coco Chanel and Audrey Hepburn.” Each veil is handmade to perfection. To see her entire collection go to {www.poshveils.com}.
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PHOTOGRAPHER: ISHMIL WATERMAN | MODEL: KRISTEN {MAXIMILLIAN MODEL MANAGEMENT}
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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FASHION | Posh Veils
glamorous yet simple Iridescent rose design rhinestone. It is perfect for an elegant affair. $79.99 CDN
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
Posh Veils | FASHION
a garden affair Pretty satin headband with ruffles and a trim detail. $59.99 CDN DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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FASHION | Posh Veils
vintage theme wedding A pretty blusher with a lovely ribbon bow. $36.99 CDN
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
Posh Veils | FASHION
high fashion A breathtaking tulle bloom perfect for a glam wedding. $36.99 CDN DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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FASHION | Posh Veils
vintage style A chic mini blusher with a beautiful fabric flower. Perfect piece for a tea-length vintage wedding dress. $49.99 CDN
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
Posh Veils | FASHION
sparkling affair A pretty rhinestone and tulle headband embellished with a lovely rhinestone. $49.99 CDN DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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FASHION | Posh Veils
touch of glam A large fabric rose and a wispy ostrich feather on a thin satin covered headband. $67.99 CDN
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
Posh Veils | FASHION
modern meets vintage This is a gasp worthy tulle fascinator embellished with a handmade duchess silk fabric rose. $49.99 CDN DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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FASHION | Posh Veils
character and style A vintage inspired dotted tulle mini blusher with a freshwater pearl brooch. $56.99 CDN
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DIY DIY WEDDINGS WEDDINGS || diyweddingsmag.com diyweddingsmag.com
Posh Veils | FASHION
nautical theme This is a two ply twist headband with a rhinestone encrusted jewel. $43.99 CDN DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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FASHION | Posh Veils
vintage inspired The head-wrap is made of dotted tulle and embellished with a vintage inspired cameo brooch. $99.99 CAN
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
Posh Veils | FASHION
birdcage style Classic and elegant birdcage veil with a beautiful fabric flower. The veil goes with any dress. $69.99 CDN DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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ADVICE | Annemarie Juhlian
Woof! INCLUDE FIDO IN YOUR WEDDING CEREMONY AND CREATE A LIFETIME MOMENT
Annemarie Juhlian Annemarie is a Seattle, WA Non-Denominational Wedding Officiant & Minister. She works with couples of all faiths and traditions to create contemporary and personalized ceremonies. Annemarie has been recognized by The Knot and Wedding Channel in 2011 as the “Best of The Knot Wedding Officiant – Seattle.”
As you think about what you want and what you don’t want for your wedding ceremony, what about Fido? If you and your Sweetheart are animal lovers, chances are good that including your canine kid in your wedding ceremony is a done deal! Having been to hundreds of diverse wedding ceremonies in the Pacific Northwest, I can tell you that including a beloved pooch in a wedding processional and/or wedding ceremony is something that creates sweet memories and brings great joy to a couple, family and friends on a wedding day. So, how best to include Fido in your ceremony and wedding day? Here are best tips to consider as you begin to figure out how best to include your dog in your wedding ceremony and quite possibly your celebration/reception: 1) Give Fido A “Big Job!” - Many couples love including their dog as "ring bearer" or "flower dog." Select a friend or family member to be your dog's handler and walk Fido down the aisle. At the front, your groom would meet and greet your pooch and then the handler and Fido would take their places/ seats. An extra special touch would be to get a special "wedding mat" for your dog to rest on during the ceremony. This mat also makes for a great memento to take home from your ceremony!
chapel or church, check with staff about their policy around animals. In my experience, many religious and/or spiritual homes are becoming much more inclusive about including animals in rituals – with many churches now hosting an annual blessing of the animals. 2) Presentation Of Rings, Canine Style! - Work with your Officiant or Minister so your dog has the special honor of presenting the rings, accompanied by the handler. One idea would be to put the rings in a special little box that is tied around the dog's neck and the rings are then taken off by the groom - either during processional or in the middle of the ceremony. This idea most often works best outside of a traditional church or religious venue. 3) Fido's "10 Top Tips For A Happy Marriage"- Over the years, I have presided over wedding ceremonies where I have worked with couples to create a unique "top 10 list" supposedly written by Fido about marriage and relationships. This list can be humorous, enlightening and serious and best of all, it can also include some inspiration for your family and friends. 4) Doggie Wear: Appropriate Canine Attire - What about a wreath of flowers around your dog's neck or "tuxedo cuffs" on the front legs? Or perhaps a special bandanna with your names and wedding date embroidered on it? Every dog is very different in temperament so remember to dress up your dog in something comfortable and long lasting for the day. 5) Insure That Fido Is Comfy - Many couples I work with have their dog at their wedding ceremony and then someone takes the dog home or to a place for the night, especially if the reception is at a special venue, hotel or fancy facility. If your wedding is a casual picnic or backyard event, then it only figures that Fido would stay for the post-wedding festivities! Most of all, include your dog in a way that is fun, happy and respectful and also allows your pooch to be comfortable and happy during your big day.
If you are being married in a more traditional venue like a
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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Annemarie Juhlian | ADVICE
Rocky & Zoe Brother and sister Boston Terriers are dressed for Jodi & Ben’s wedding which we featured in our Summer 2011 issue. Thank you to photographer Kristina Hill!
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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MEMORIES | personalizationmall.com
Soul MatesŠ Personalized Marble Plaque
Love brought us together and we were brought together by love. This timeless sentiment is an impressive way to let your special someone know how deeply your love runs for them. We'll personalize any 1-line below the exclusive design for a one-of-a-kind keepsake they will be sure to treasure through the years. The tumbled marble tile is a natural product and variations in color and texture are to be expected. Plaque measures 6" x 6" x 3/8" thick and weighs just over a pound. Makes an impressive gift for weddings, anniversaries, Valentine's Day or any romantic occasion to let them know you much you care. (Easel sold separately.)
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
Because Of YouŠ Photo Canvas Art The creative design featuring your first names connected by a soft ampersand "&" is set against any color or black and white photo, for a lasting and memorable keepsake for years to come. We apply a transparency to your photo, creating a soft background for the verse applied in black text.
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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SPOTLIGHT | Robert Edward Woodworking
The Cake Pop Stand Robert Edward is a custom woodworking artist that specializes in creating wedding cake, cupcake and cake pop displays for the wedding and event industry. Each of their displays is truly unique, exquisitely detailed and completely handmade. They take great pride in the attention to detail put into creating their beautiful pieces and have had the honor of working with Kerry Vincent and Francois Payard. Robert is always looking to create the unusual…If it hasn’t been done, that is a reason to create it. After all, we are all only limited by our imaginations!
What drives Robert to create is the inspiration that surrounds us all…It is everywhere we choose to see it! A flower caressed by the morning sun or a spectacular sunset. The magnificence of an architectural masterpiece, the gracefulness of an old building too beautiful to be destroyed or the elegance of a fine piece of gracefully aged furniture. Inspiration completely surrounds us and we observe it all in amazement…
A cake pop stand makes these sweet treats even more sweeter!
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
PHOTOGRAPHY: GEOFF WHITE PHOTOGRAPHY
This is a great alternative if you are looking for something other than a wedding cake. It makes a statement all by itself. Match your wedding theme color with any color or stain.
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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RECIPES | Do It For Less! Experts
Family-Style Menu F O R
FA L L
FRENCH COUNTRYSIDE MENU Nicoise Salad with Garlic Herb Dressing Classic Cassoulet with Crusty Bread Cheese Board with Fruit and Nuts
If you are planning an autumn wedding, consider serving something deliciously warm and comforting to your guests. In our French Countryside menu below, the star of the show is a cassoulet. It’s rich and warm and insanely delicious. This entire menu is served family-style with each table getting their own beautifully plated serving platter of food, saving you money on flower arrangements. Mismatched serving dishes and utensils can be quite charming…so borrow, don’t buy! Tie it all together with inexpensive matching tablecloths. If you need some décor scattered around, consider potted plants like rosemary or lavender, old bird cages with colorful bird figurines (cheap and available at most large craft stores) secured to the inside and outside, hurricane lamps, or groupings of pillar candles.
A 20 year culinary veteran, Denise Vivaldo teaches seminars and workshops across the country and has trained many of the stylists working in Los Angeles today.
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Cindie Flannigan has been styling, designing, and teaching with Food Fanatics since 2001. CONNECT WITH US
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M ENU C O UNT DO WN All of the recipes below can be doubled or tripled.
1-2 weeks before Shop for non-perishables Buy beverages 3 days before Shop for perishables Make the cassoulet except for last 15 minutes without the breadcrumbs. 2 days before Cook potatoes and haricot vert for Nicoise Salad; chill 1 day before Assemble Nicoise Salad and cover with damp paper towels and plastic wrap; chill The morning of the wedding Make Garlic Herb Dressing 1-2 hours ahead Finish cassoulet and keep warm in a low oven
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RECIPES | Do It For Less! Experts
Nicoise Salad Makes 25 servings Traditionally, a nicoise salad has tuna. We’ve left it out of our recipe because our main dish is so hearty. Chop and prep everything 2 days before, then assemble it the night before. Cover with damp paper towels and plastic wrap and chill until ready to serve. 3 pounds small red potatoes, cut into wedges 2 pounds haricot vert or small green beans 5 heads limestone, bibb or butter lettuce, rinsed and patted dry 4 yellow or orange bell peppers, thinly sliced 2 pounds cherry, pear or grape tomatoes, cut in half 2 hot house or English cucumbers, cut in half lengthwise and sliced 2 fennel bulbs, thinly sliced 25 large eggs, hardboiled and 3 cups oil-cured olives Garlic Herb Dressing (recipe follows) Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add potatoes, reduce heat and simmer until tender but still firm enough to hold their shape. Drain and allow to cool. Bring another pot of water to a boil and add the haricot vert for just 2 minutes. Drain and let sit under cool running water for a few minutes to cool. Set aside. Dividing ingredients equally among serving platters (1 platter for each table) arrange lettuce leaves to cover bottom of platters. Attractively arrange potatoes, haricot vert, peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers, fennel, eggs, and olives on top. Serve with dressing on the side.
Garlic Herb Dressing Makes 25 servings This recipe tastes best when made the same day you serve it. If you can’t find champagne vinegar you can use sherry vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or a good quality white wine vinegar. 8 garlic cloves, mashed 1 cup champagne vinegar 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard 2 1/2 cups extra olive oil Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste 2 tablespoons thyme leaves Place garlic, vinegar and mustard in the work bowl of a food processor and pulse to combine. Add oil and process until creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir in thyme and chill until ready to serve.
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Do It For Less! Experts | RECIPES
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RECIPES | Do It For Less! Experts
Classic Cassoulet Makes 25 servings You can use any type of pre-cooked sausage that you like. A chicken sausage will work great, as will a spicy type of sausage. You can make this 3 days ahead. Cassoulet only gets better when it sits around for awhile. If making the cassoulet ahead of time you will need use an ice bath to bring down the temperature quickly before refrigerating. To do this, place a thick layer of ice cubes in the bottom of several large pans (use pans that are larger than the cassoulet pans). Put cassoulet pans on top of ice and pour enough cold water into the pans to come within an inch or two of the top of the cassoulet. Let sit for 20 minutes. Remove from ice bath, wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Do not stack pans on top of one another as this will keep them from cooling down. 4 1/2 pounds dried white beans, rinsed 6 sprigs fresh parsley plus 3/4 cup chopped parsley 4 large bay leaves 16 sprigs fresh thyme 2 1/2 gallons low sodium chicken broth, or more if necessary 50 chicken thighs, with skin on 1 head garlic, minced 1 pound thick cut bacon 3 medium onions, chopped 2 cups white wine 3 cups unsalted butter, melted 1 tablespoon sea salt 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper 5 pounds kielbasa sausage, sliced diagonally into 1-inch-thick pieces 6 cups Panko breadcrumbs Cover beans with cold water by 2 inches in a large bowl and soak at room temperature for 8–24 hours. Rinse and drain. Place beans in one or more large stock pots. Add chicken broth, making sure beans are covered by 2 inches of broth. Tie parsley sprigs, bay leaves and half the thyme together with kitchen twine (for easy removal, later), and add to pot (dividing herbs between however many pots you are using). Bring to a boil over high heat (this could take 20 or more minutes!), reduce heat and simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, until beans are tender. Drain beans, reserving cooking liquid and discarding herbs. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 375°F. Place half the melted butter and all the garlic in a large bowl. Working in batches, toss chicken in the butter mixture to coat. Place chicken on baking sheets, skin side up. Sprinkle generously with salt and pepper and bake for 35 minutes, or until nicely browned. Generously grease baking or roasting pans with oil and set aside. In a large skillet over medium high heat, cook bacon until crisp. Remove bacon from skillet and coarsely chop; set aside. Drain all but 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat from the skillet and cook the onions for 7 minutes, until lightly golden. Add wine to the onions, increase heat to high, and cook for another 5 minutes. Place beans in prepared roasting pans, add thyme and sausage slices. Sprinkle with chopped bacon. Pour wine onion mixture over beans and bacon. Add chicken thighs, skin side up. Add just enough reserved cooking liquid to roasting pans to cover beans and sausage but leaving the top of the chicken exposed. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes. While cassoulet is cooking, mix breadcrumbs and remaining butter together. Stir in half the chopped parsley. Add salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle breadcrumbs thickly over top of cassoulet and continue cooking until crumbs are golden brown, about 15 minutes longer. Garnish with reserved chopped parsley. Serve hot or warm.
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Do It For Less! Experts | RECIPES
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A Real DIY Wedding
PHOTO BY MORGAN CUNNINGHAM
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
Something Old, Something New | WEDDING PLANNING
Liz Stanton and Jenny Greenway started the wedding planning company, Something Old, Something New, in Atlanta, GA after planning Liz’s wedding in 2006. The sisters love all things weddings and turning a bride’s vision into a reality. In 2010, they also started a blog to share wedding ideas and tips with brides. Liz and Jenny are focused on making sure that a couple’s wedding day is a memory they’ll have forever. The wedding planning process is a fun and exciting experience for a bride and groom. Of course there will be moments of stress, but Jenny & Liz are there to give you some ideas for your wedding to help eliminate those moments.
Do-It-Yourself (aka DIY) has become increasingly popular over the last couple of years. Not only do people like to say they created their wedding themselves, but this can also help out for those couples who have a tight budget. If you do want to go the route of DIY for your wedding, it is always a good idea to have a wedding planner help you out (a subtle plug for our business). Or, as a bride you may become overwhelmed and unable to focus on the joyous time of planning your wedding. And that way if something goes wrong with the DIY features of your wedding, you have someone else to fix it and make your big day continue smoothly – less stress for the bride is key to a great day! Last fall, we had the pleasure of helping a very sweet couple, Frances and Chris, plan and coordinate their wedding. This occasion was a true DIY wedding with a smaller budget, but at the end of the day it looked like it cost a fortune.
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WEDDING PLANNING | Something Old, Something New
A Real DIY Wedding The Dress: One of the most important DIY parts of Frances’ and Chris’ wedding was her dress. Frances’ mom made her dress. This made the dress so special and memorable. The dress was perfect and since her mom made it was a huge cost saver. Now, we are by no means telling you that you must make your own dress (not everyone is fortunate enough to have those skills) but you can have someone else like a professional seamstress make it for you. This allows you to truly have the dress of your dreams and can save you quite a bit of money versus buying a designer dress from a bridal store. The Cake: Another very special part of the wedding was the cake. Frances’ brother was the chef behind the creation. He had just recently taken a class and loved it so much that he wanted to help out with Frances’ big day. Again, not everyone has a sibling who can bake but you may have a friend of a friend that could help out. Or, another option is to work with a baker who is just starting out. They will most likely give you a discount on the cake to help kick start their business. The cake can be very costly, so this is a place to help save on budget. The Groom’s Cake: This was one of the most unique and fun groom’s cakes we’ve seen. Chris loves Oreos and so instead of a traditional cake, we stepped in and made an Oreo ‘cake’ for him. It was a huge hit with guests and was so simple to make. At the base we added shot glasses filled with milk. Cookies and milk – the perfect combination! The Programs: For the Programs, Frances and Chris decided to have a little fun. They put a crossword puzzle
with answers about them as a couple on the back – a unique addition to something that can often be unoriginal. They printed the programs themselves and added some bows and small pencils for the crossword – no one knew they weren’t professionally done. The Centerpieces: Rather than hire someone to decorate the reception, Frances asked us to create the centerpieces. She wanted to go with a natural theme using fall foliage and adding some candles to match her wedding colors. We ended up using a mix of twigs, pine cones (natural and spray painted), stones, potpourri, acorns, ribbon, a hodgepodge of vases and lots of candles (one of the few things we had to buy). Like this idea for your wedding? Just look around your backyard and house for the supplies! The Favors: Rather than traditional favors, they went with a candy bar. Keeping with the fall colors of the wedding we set up the bar with large vases and jars filled with candy corn, fudge, Reese’s Pieces, orange jelly beans and caramels. They had clear cellophane bags for guests to fill with candy, plus printed stickers with a cute saying to seal them shut. An inexpensive and simple but sweet treat for everyone!
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PHOTOGRAPHER – JETTE FAGELA | CEREMONY & RECEPTION SITE – CATOR WOOLFORD GARDENS, ATLANTA GA | CATERING & DÉCOR – AFFAIR TO REMEMBER | RECEPTION MUSIC – SPECTRUM ENTERTAINMENT | PHOTO BOOTH – RED EYE PHOTO BOOTH
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the
GROOM’S SURVIVAL GUIDE
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Simply The Best Man | ADVICE
While you might well be wondering how one small question could have such massive repercussions, just bare in mind what this day means to the lovely lady in question. Most guys have never really given much thought to their future wedding, but for many women it is a day they have pictured from their earliest memory. When you were scuffing your new school shoes chasing a ball, your bride-to-be was already dreaming of her future Prince Charming (although at the time he was probably wearing a cape rather than your favourite trainers and T-shirt). It’s an over used phrase that it’s the most special day in a girl’s life, but it is true. And what’s more, she expects it to hold the same significance for you. So while she’s buying a newsstand’s entire stock of wedding magazines and showing you the 27 different ways she’s thinking of wearing her hair she’s hoping that thoughtful look on your face relates to your own ideas for the wedding rather than whether you’ll get to sneak out for a quick 18 holes this weekend rather than go to yet another wedding fair. Oh yeah… and she’ll wear a dress that will cost the price of a small family car. And then never ever wear it again. Communication is key. Despite your beloved now having turned into bridezilla, in the words of Rudyard Kipling you need to “keep your head when all about you are losing theirs”. She IS going to get stressed. She IS going to get upset. You WILL have arguments concerning the wedding day. All this is perfectly natural and doesn’t mean you love each other any less, it just means you’re planning a wedding and researchers say this is one of the most stressful events in a persons life. Especially for the bride. One of the biggest complaints brides have is that their husband-to-be doesn’t seem to get involved or show enough interest. Yes there is an impossible list of questions to get through: What kind of flowers? What colour tie? What gifts do you get the bridesmaids? Should you sit Cousin Albert near the door in case he has one of his “moments”? While it’s true that what font you use on the place settings isn’t going to end world hunger or bring about peace in the Middle East, these small details can make all the difference on the big day so get involved. Your wedding should be an extension of your personalities with all the quirks and
idiosyncrasies that make the two of you so different. That doesn’t mean you have to dress as Smurfs or walk down the aisle to Iron Maiden but it means you should both have a say in how you want the day to play out. But you will need help too. Any bride has a whole support network buzzing around her, keen to help out at every step and dress fitting. Us guys are never quite as willing to look for help but it’s not a bad idea to have someone on hand you can call when you need to head on a “fact finding mission” of your own to the nearest watering hole. Make sure your best man is the right man for the job who will sit with you and help you let off some steam when you need and also be the kind of friend that can help take some of the load off your shoulders when it comes to researching cars, musicians, DJ’s, etc.
One of the biggest complaints brides have is that their husbandto-be doesn’t seem to get involved or show enough interest. So don’t just sit back ignoring the chaos, it isn’t going to go away and you’ll only add to the bride’s stress levels. If you bury your head for too long you might wake up on the day to find you’re travelling to the church in a pink stretch limo in a lime green suit. Make decisions; enjoy the process because despite some of the potential sticky points it should be enjoyable. After all this is going to be the most significant day of your lives, it’s your big day too.
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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ADVICE | ask M Famous
ask
M Famous
Image consultant and lifestyle stylist, Christopher Macken answers those tough questions and provides a witty and refreshing look at planning your perfect day.
Mr. M Famous, I have a hair color question. I am a dirty blonde that gets highlights. Yes, my fiancé knows I am not a true blonde. Any who, I am wondering when I should get my hair colored for the last time before the wedding. I feel like my hair always has a different texture right after I get my highlights done, but I also don't want to have roots showing. Thanks in advance for your help!
best friend's wedding, which has been AMAZING until I realized that I have to give a speech. Now I am completely paralyzed. I am the shyest person you will ever meet. I want to say just the right thing, but I can't even think about writing a speech because I can't stop thinking about having to stand up in front of everyone to give it. Any thoughts on what I could say that is short and sweet??!! The shorter the better! Speechless
Blonde Bombshell
A: Oh Speechless, Answer: Very good question Bomb....may I call you Bomb? First of all, I always recommend that all hair changes be done one week prior to the actual day. This buffer gives you plenty of time, if for some crazy reason it doesn't turn out just right. The texture change in your hair has to do with the pH balance being off as well as the fact that the cuticle of your hair is still open after receiving a chemical service. Condition your hair well throughout the week and this should fix itself. Also, please take my advice when I say that any person that gets highlights should regularly get lowlights as well! Otherwise you begin to look a little Baywatch and not Bombshell. Have a great wedding my blonde friend! Send me pictures of the big day!
I know someone like you very well. Personally, I have never been one to shy away from the spotlight, however I can understand your fear. I have thought over your "tongue tied tango with talking," and I think I have the perfect solution! Instead of giving a speech in the traditional sense, I recommend that you put together a slide-show to music that best describes your friendship. This keepsake will say it all. Just follow up with something like “Cheers” or "I raise my glass to you." If you do decide to speak, then speak from your heart, and whatever you do, don't picture the crowd in their underwear. I think that image can be scarier than giving the speech!
P.S. - I think brunettes have more fun…just teasing. Mr. M Famous
Have confidence in yourself, and you will find your voice. Mr. M Famous
Mr. M Famous, I hope you can help me. I think you can. Your answers are always witty and humorous. I am the maid of honor in my
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ask M Famous | ADVICE
Mr. M Famous, Tough question headed your way...I'm engaged. My fiancé and I have a dream wedding planned. We are in our early 20's and don't have the budget for it. My parents are willing to pay for the wedding. However, as we go through the initial planning stages, it has become obvious that because my parents are footing the bill, everything has to be chosen and approved by my mom. I am watching our dream wedding drift away and turn into her vision. I don't know what to say or do, and I DON'T want to be ungrateful. But, I can honestly tell you that I would rather not have a wedding if it means giving up on our dream. You are so great with words - HELP!
Mr. M Famous, Love your column. My question is simple. In a world where all my friends who are getting married want their weddings to be different and unique, I am simply looking for timeless. I want to look back at my photos and feel confident and pleased with my decisions 5, 10, 15 and 20 years from now. I don't want to be questioning why I chose turquoise and orange as my colors or why I thought the strapless bridesmaid dress would look good on everyone. So, what is your vision of a timeless wedding? Thinking like COCO
A: You had me at timeless! When Dreaming of MY Day
{LEFT PHOTO} HAIRSTYLE - SARAH & BRAD PHOTOGRAPHY {RIGHT} BRIDESMAID DRESS - MYBRIDALSDRESS.COM
A: I have to say that if you follow my column and blog, then you know that sometimes my answers are not all liquor and glitter (aka sugar and spice). My answer might be a little tough to hear, however I feel that it has to be said. First, let me echo what I tell all brides to be: “It is YOUR wedding.” You and your future hubby have to remember that this day is meant to celebrate the love and commitment between the two of you - not you, him and HER (your MOM). My mother and father were wed in a beautiful ceremony at a large church. My mother looked timelessly beautiful and the whole event cost under $1000! My parents simply didn’t have the money at the time for a lavish “to-do.” Instead, they found DIY ways of making it everything they wanted it to be. They are still happily married today! Sometimes it is hard to tell the person with the money that it doesn’t equal control. Take a step back and decide what is most important and what you can cover. Pick a few battles here and there and DIY what you can. Congrats to you and your hubby!
reading your question, I instantly began thinking of Grace Kelly and her wedding. However as I recall, her bridesmaids were a bit overdressed and the cream color they were wearing might have been a bit too close to white. I am a huge fan of a slightly more modern but oh so classic twist with black, charcoal or midnight blue bridesmaids dresses that fit each woman’s personal style, and of course, you in pearly white… similar to the one that was the talk of the world in Will and Kate’s wedding. Kate embodied a classic, sophisticated, timeless dress that Coco Chanel herself would have approved of. Sit down and start making notes of everything you would like in your wedding, and I can assure you it will be perfect! I will leave you with a quote from Her Highness, Miss Coco Chanel, “Elegance is not the prerogative of those who have just escaped from adolescence, but of those who have already taken possession of their future.” Cheers to your wonderful wedded future. Mr. M Famous
Lots of joy to you! Mr. M Famous
Do you have a style question you want to ask M Famous? Send it to: askmfamous@christophermacken.com DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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RealWeddings
WEDDING: March 20, 2010 ♼ PHOTOGRAPHER: La Vida Creations Photography RECEPTION: Levyland Estates, Carlsbad, CA See more of their wedding on diyweddingsmag.com
Paige & Dane
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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REAL WEDDINGS | Paige & Dane
How did you two meet? At the time, we were both professional beach volleyball players living in the San Diego area. Over early 7AM training sessions, we got to know each other until it turned into grabbing coffee or breakfast afterwards, then lunch, then dinner and finally led into dating. How long was your engagement? We got engaged in Hermosa Beach, CA on New Years Eve Day in 2008 and then were married on March 20, 2010. So it was about 16 months. We wanted a longer engagement to have time to plan, add our own personalities to the wedding & enjoy it. What inspired your wedding theme? Our hometowns and wanting to bring those traditions, the vibe, the feel and what we love from each. I am a born and raised Texas girl, Dane is a born and raised California boy so we definitely come from different worlds but with similar family backgrounds. We wanted to get married on the beach out in the open, then transition to a funcasual cocktail party and finish with a formal in a tent outside. Texas décor was everywhere in the beautiful surroundings of southern California. What inspired your wedding color palette? My favorite colors are greens and blues (plus it’s like the ocean colors) so we started with that for the bridesmaid’s dresses and groomsmen’s ties. Then with my mama’s suggestion to bring in something “Texan”, we had yellow roses as our flowers and kept the splash of yellow as our accent color throughout everything. Dane and I both enjoy the outdoors and it’s a bit “Texan” but we wanted some rustic looks around as well, so there is some of that as part of our décor. Combining the blues, greens, yellows with natural colors of ivory/white/taupe/etc. we really found a nice balance that kept with our “Bringing a bit of Texas to Cali” theme and accomplished a look of a dressed-up backyard home party. What was special about where you got married? We were married at Levyland Estates, a vacation/event rental property that is just magnificent. You really feel like you might be in Hawaii with the landscaping and it’s right next to the beach but had the space to fit the tent & everything else we wanted. So it was special to us because it fit what we were looking for (plus it sat right next to a pond and my husband loves fishing). However, it was mostly special because it was located in Carlsbad, CA just down the street from the sports training facility where Dane and I had met a few years earlier. *A special thank you to Event Planner & Designer Paul Bott who worked with the couple to design their special day.
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Paige & Dane
What do-it-yourself projects did you do?
Menu/Bar/Other signs - We used small chalkboards with rope wrapped around the edges to display various things. We Engagement ring - The center stone was also grabbed some familiar Texas sayings my mom’s first diamond that my daddy like “Yeehaw” and “Longhorn Bar”, added a gave to her. She had saved it all these years few other items to it and used these to pass along to me if my future hubby throughout the venue. wanted to use it.
Guest Book - My mama used our engagement photos along with a few others to decorate a scrapbook and that is the book we used for our guest sign-in. She surprised us with this!
What advice do you have for other brides? Guest bags - For all the out-of-town guests So much! But honestly a few things stand Table seating - We used postcards from we gave them welcome bags at the hotel. out…As you being to plan, know that “It’s Texas blown up on sheets of paper with My mama and I put these together using a your day!” so it should be whatever you each guests name and table # listed. We cute bag my mom crafted and inside we want it to be. This is your chance to bring then tied rope twine around mini had our hand-made schedule of events/ your own personality into one of the best haystacks and slid the postcard sheet activities/etc., along with a Cali orange, things you will ever plan, so have fun with between the ropes to hold it up. orange taffy candy, sunscreen & bottled it and be yourself. Planning can be crazy, water. fun, stressful, overwhelming, exciting and Table numbers - Dane and I went around so many more emotions! So as you order with my mama one afternoon while we Favors - We gave a Texas favorite, praline the caterer, pick your dress, decide which were home in Texas to famous places in candy, to all the guests as their party napkins to use-ALWAYS remember what Austin and took informal, fun pictures at favors. We had them shipped out to Cali it’s truly about…you marrying your each. We then used these as our table from my mom’s favorite praline shop in husband…that is the most precious part of numbers. Texas. the whole process. For the actual day, I would say… Wedding slideshow - Dane and I worked Wedding cake - Well this wasn’t totally (1) ENJOY no matter what happens. together to make a fabulous slideshow DIY since we didn’t bake the cake but we (2) Try to steal away some place with with pictures of us & each of our guests. did create our own cake design from your husband for a few moments to We displayed this as rolling footage during scratch…it had white and milk chocolate say “hi” and take it all in…maybe even our cocktail party. Texas Stars all over it with white & find a place where you can look back chocolate braided rope around each layer. on your guests at the celebration to Centerpieces - My mama and I went to The cake toppers were a mini cowboy boot see how wonderful it all is! You will some local novelty shops in Texas and next to a mini surfboard. be so glad you did and it will be a gathered various Texas-inspired vases/ mental snapshot you will never candleholders/etc. to use as centerpieces forget! along with the yellow roses. DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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