DIY
WEDDINGS I N S P I R A T I O N A L
I D E A S
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11 Real
WINTER 2011
W E D D I N G S
Bridal Shower dessert buffet
DIY WEDDING
Invitations Eco-friendly recycled paper
Boutonnieres
just for the groom
the wedding
Cootie Catcher
3Brides
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
SHARE THEIR DIY PROJECTS
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Meet Our Newest DIY Experts! DIY Flower Expert - p. 8 In 1991, Angie Zimmerman gave up her corporate job to see if she could make a living doing what she loved...working with flowers. 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. 116 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.
PUBLISHER’S NOTE As we leave 2011 and enter into 2012 there are some exciting times ahead of us. More and more brides are discovering just how much fun it can be to put together their own diy wedding.
CEO+MANAGING EDITOR+PUBLISHER K. Stelmachers EXECUTIVE EDITOR P. Stelmachers SENIOR COPY EDITOR R. Brown 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.
What’s in store for 2012? Here are some of the trends you will see in the new year: Pantone Spring Colors - Tangerine, Cabaret, Sweet Lilac, Driftwood, Solar Power, Bellflower, Margarita, Starfish, Sodalite Blue and Cockatoo. Bridal Gowns - Nothing says romance like Victorian-style. Expect lots of corsets and soft layered ruffles. Themes - Vintage, Rustic & Nautical. Pets - Incorporating the family pet into the ceremony will become more popular. Dessert Tables - Couples will offer their favorite candies and desserts to their guests. Dessert tables allow the couple to be more creative. Faux Flower Decor - Made of paper, fabric, tissue or feathers. Here is to a fabulous 2012. Cheers!
Kym Stelmachers CEO/The Mrs. Network, LLC
A MUST READ FOR THE
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
BUDGET SAVVY BRIDE DO IT FOR LESS!
WEDDINGS BUY IT AT AMAZON.COM
contents features
CONNECT WITH US
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8 DIY Flower Arrangement 101 Angie Zimmerman
28 The Wedding Cootie Catcher Designs by Tenisha
12 Unique DIY Wedding Invitations InviteSite.com
30 Designer Cakes Stella!, Mikkel Paige & Ph.D~serts
18 Revived Vintage Chalkboards Free Giveaway! Amanda Weaver
36 Hey, Mom-To-Be! Wedding Officiant, Annemarie Juhlian
22 ‘tis the Season A Holiday Display Sugar Plum Designs
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50 Ask M Famous Lifestyle Advice From Christopher Macken 52 DIY Table Lantern Tutorial Christy Gordon-Graham
42 Winter Wonderland Recipes do it for less! Experts Denise Vivaldo & Cindie Flannigan
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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Meet Our DIY Experts!
Lifestyle Advice Expert - p. 50
Do It For Less! Wedding Experts - p. 42 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 an illustrious 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!
Wedding Planning Experts - p. 104 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
Design Expert - p. 108 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} 54 58 62 66 70 74 78 82 86 90 94
Rainee & George, South Carolina Megan & Robert, Minnesota Joan & Chris, California Sara & Rick, California Valerie & Paul, Delaware Brit & Lewis, Colorado Celeste & Craig, New York Rachel & Brett, Texas Natalie & Doug, Colorado Sara & Cody, Tennessee Katherine & William, Florida
100 Just For The Groom Boutonniere The Wedding Petal
116 Winter Wonderland Wedding Jennifer McAdam
104 A Real DIY Wedding Something Old, Something New Liz Stanton & Jenny Greenway
118 Pie In A Jar Tutorial Mary Meyer
108 The Winter Collection Alexandra Nicole Design 110 Bridal Buffet Let’s Set A Date Co.
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
122 DIY Bouquets Tanya Cooper 129 The Art Of Quilling Cute As Can Be Stationery
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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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DIY FLOWERS | DIY Wedding Flower Guide
B Y A NGIE ZIMMERMAN Angie also teaches flower arranging classes via her own internet TV channel, http://flowerarranging101.tv. Angie will show you step by step how to: Distinguish between types of flowers and understand their needs and care – narrow down the choices between flowers Select the right flowers for your event that will convey your emotions and express your vision – stop struggling with multiple ideas Determine how many arrangements you need for your event – don’t overspend or underestimate Determine what materials to buy and where to go to get the best deals – easy shopping lists and where to buy guidance for budget planning Discover tricks of the trade that will have you handling flowers like a pro and creating fabulous flower arrangements without hassles and headaches As an extra bonus, I’ll share quick tips such as how you can take those pretty store bought bouquets and turn them into something even more fabulous CONNECT WITH ANGIE
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
Angie Zimmerman | DIY FLOWERS
Flower Arrangement 101 the iris and callas in a mirrored vase video
In this video Angie takes you through the step-by-step instructions on how to put together this lovely iris and calla lily, mirrored centerpiece. This beautiful centerpiece is perfect for your winter wedding.
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.
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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Photography: Karen Knauer, Founding Partner of wineVeil
DIY STATIONERY | InviteSite
Senna
Rustic eco wedding invitation. Colorful booklet invitation perfect for a fall or late summer wedding.
DIY Square Invitation of pumpkin, blue and natural handmade lokta paper from Nepal. Real sprig of pressed Texas Bluebonnet. Booklet is entirely tree free. 100% post consumer recycled paper envelope (Husk color).
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
Unique DIY Wedding Invitations by InviteSite.com These gorgeous do-it-yourself invitation kits come with fabricated papers, desktop printing templates, ribbons, envelopes, and tools. All these sets are eco-friendly.
Senna RSVP Set: Response card: Handmade pumpkin-colored lokta cardstock. Response envelope: Husk recycled A2 size. Get this set at www.invitesite.com. CONNECT WITH US
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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DIY STATIONERY | InviteSite
Carmine
Star-fold invitation for a autumn wedding. DIY Square Invitation with mango leaves and mulberry paper star-fold wrapper. Eco Design for an earth friendly wedding.
Eco Wedding Invitation: tree free and 100% post consumer recycled papers. Rustic and bold. Assembly is fairly easy, as the star-fold is scored and the ribbon holes are die cut out. PAPER FACTS: Wrapper is made from mulberry fibers and mango leaves, in Thailand. Mulberry fiber is a bi-product of the silk industry and the mango leaves are post harvest waste from mango growers.
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
InviteSite | DIY STATIONERY
Carmine RSVP Set Response card: Matching husk cardstock. Response envelope: Husk recycled A2 size (4-3/8x5-3/4) with matching mango paper envelope liners. Get this set at www.invitesite.com
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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DIY STATIONERY | InviteSite
Sol RSVP Set Response card: Mulberry soft white cardstock. Response envelope: Milkweed A2 size (4-3/8x5-3/4) Envelope lining inserts of orange mulberry (assembly required). Get this set at www.invitesite.com
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
InviteSite | DIY STATIONERY
Sol
Gloriously electric wedding invitation for a contemporary garden or outdoor wedding.
DIY Invitation with pressed pink daisy - tree free & post-consumer recycled papers. PAPER FACTS: The mulberry cardstock is created from mulberry fiber, made in Thailand. Wrapper is bagasse - made from sugarcane stalks, a material used to make paper for hundreds of years. Envelopes and backing paper are 100% post consumer recycled paper, made in USA or Canada.
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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Etsy.com Feature | Revived Vintage
"Discovering New Design from an Older Time" BY AMY WEAVER
Style/Inspiration My personal style is shabby, cottage chic and I re-upholstered and up cycled furniture for years before selling on Etsy. Most furnishings in my house are flea market finds and felt it was only natural to start recycling and redesigning frames into functional, practical chalkboards that can be used for years to come.
Favorite Piece There seems to be one chalkboard that I made almost a year ago that stands out in my mind. It was a Vintage Syroco frame with an attached shelf and actually ended up in Gothenburg, Sweden for a customers remodeled French Country kitchen. The design was so unique and whimsical. I've never found one like it again, but had a hard time selling it...so wanted to keep it for myself!
Free Giveaway! Revived Vintage is giving away one of these gorgeous custom vintage chalkboards valued at $179. To participate you need to Like Us at www.facebook.com/diyweddings and fill out the short entry form. Make sure you visit revivedvintage.etsy.com to see more of Amy’s vintage inspired chalkboards. Entries must be received between December 1 –31, 2011.
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
Revived Vintage | Etsy.com FEATURE
Giveaway! WIN ONE CUSTOM VINTAGE CHALKBOARD BY “LIKING US” AT FACEBOOK.COM/DIYWEDDINGS AND FILLING OUT THE SHORT ENTRY FORM {ENDS DEC 31ST}
DIY DIY WEDDINGS WEDDINGS || diyweddingsmag.com diyweddingsmag.com
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Etsy.com FEATURE | Revived Vintage
VINTAGE SYROCO WOOD FRAMED CHALKBOARD
VERY OLD SOLID WOOD 19TH CENTURY ANTIQUE FRAMED CHALKBOARD WITH HAND CARVED PEDIMENT
C h a l k SOLID WOOD BAROQUE MAGNETIC CHALKBOARD
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BEAUTIFUL VINTAGE SYROCO FRAMED CHALKBOARD IN PINK AND WHITE
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
Revived Vintage | Etsy.com FEATURE
HOLLYWOOD REGENCY CHALKBOARD COMES IN MANY COLORS
LARGEST SOLID WOOD BAROQUE CHALKBOARD
b o a r d s VINTAGE SYROCO FRAME CHALKBOARD WITH ATTACHED SHELF
BAROQUE SELF STANDING TABLETOP CHALKBOARD. HAS ATTACHED STAND MAKING IT PERFECT FOR A MENU DISPLAY AT ANY SPECIAL EVENT
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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HOLIDAY DESIGN | Sugar Plum Designs
‘tis the
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DIYWEDDINGS WEDDINGS || diyweddingsmag.com diyweddingsmag.com DIY
Sugar Plum Designs | HOLIDAY DESIGN
Season
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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HOLIDAY DESIGN | Sugar Plum Designs
What was the inspiration behind this great holiday dessert display? Owner Debbie Kennedy says “I was inspired by the fabric for this dessert table. I wanted something dramatic to go with the holiday theme. The cake was designed around the fabric also to be simple and elegant so we could add in coordinating candies and cake balls to compliment the table.”
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CAKE, CANDY AND CAKE BALLS: JULIA BAKER CONFECTIONS WWW.JULIABAKERCONFECTIONS.COM PHOTOGRAPHER: COREY SCHWARTZ OF DESERT RIDGE PHOTOGRAPHY WWW.DESERTRIDGEPHOTOGRAPHY.COM SUGAR PLUM DESIGNS: WWW.SUGARPLUMIT.COM
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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FASHION | Posh Veils
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
Sugar Plum Designs | HOLDIAY DESIGN
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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DIY PROJECT | Wedding Cootie Catcher
THE WEDDING COOTIE CATCHER Designs By Tenisha
DOWNLOAD THIS TEMPLATE HERE HTTP://WWW.ETSY.COM/SHOP/DESIGNSBYTENISHA Do you remember the cootie catcher from when we were kids? Designs by Tenisha has recreated this great little interactive game into a wedding favor for your guests. You develop the Q&A and you can download it and print it yourself or they will print it and ship it to you.
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After you cut off the excess paper at the bottom you will start with this, the design, which is a nice 8.5 x 8.5 square Turn the paper over and fold back the 4 corners towards the middle (they should almost touch) This is how it looks afterwards Next, flip the paper over again and fold the corners towards the center Fold the paper in half CONNECT WITH ME This is how it looks afterwards Put your fingers in and open it up...it should look like this
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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Wedding Cootie Catcher | DIY PROJECT
The Cootie Catcher comes in a downloadable pdf template for you to customize or you can order it printed and flat or fully assembled. Customization includes: - Choice of Colors - Font Choice - Wording - Eight Questions & Answers Get your cootie catcher at designsbytenisha.blogspot.com
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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DESIGNER CAKES | Stella!
Chef Mark Conte MAYS LANDING | NEW JERSEY WWW.STELLABAKINGCOMPANY.COM
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INSPIRATION: Today’s brides are very much aware of fashion trends, so why shouldn’t their wedding cakes follow along? We borrow these ideas and translate them into beautiful looking and delicious tasting cakes! Whether they are cupcakes, mini cakes or multitiered cakes, we can borrow the hottest looks and trends from fashion and translate them into a one-of-a-kind wedding cake!
ABOUT STELLA! BAKING COMPANY: Each cake is designed to your specifications. We'll sit with you and discuss design, size, colors and flavors. We'll show you the typical serving size. If you desire a larger or smaller serving, we will accommodate accordingly. Then we'll come up with a couple design sketches so you can see what your cake will look like. We can arrange a tasting, if desired, of your chosen flavors. Once the details are finalized, we take the design sketches into the bakery and bring your cake to life!
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
Stella! | DESIGNER CAKES
CAKE TRIO:
Tiffany (this page): Traditional wedding cake with vanilla buttercream filling, baby blue fondant, white fondant bow accent. Louie V (left p. 30): Chocolate fudge cake with raspberry conserve filling, Chocolate fudge buttercream, chocolate fondant exterior with Gold Monogram accent. Bur-Berry (middle p. 30): Signature wedding cake with vanilla/almond buttercream, raspberry conserve filling, vanilla fondant exterior with hand-brushed plaid motif.
PHOTOGRAPHY: MARK CONTE DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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DESIGNER CAKES | Mikkel Paige
Mikkel Paige NEW YORK | NEW YORK WWW.MIKKELPAIGE.COM
CONNECT WITH ME
INSPIRATION: The inspiration was simplicity with some special twists, including green Cymbidium Orchid accents for the "cherry on top." (The flower was a favorite of the bride.) The ruffly layer mimicked the bride's dress and the top layer's patterned, which was piped in royal icing, was inspired by the lace pattern of her bolero. The bride also wanted a cake comprised of various shapes so there's round, square and hexagonal layers.
ABOUT MIKKEL PAIGE: I'm in my late 20s, living in New York. I started cake decorating simply out of a few years of curiosity of what my cakes would look like. I found I was naturally pretty good at it and through word of mouth people started asking me to make them cakes, cookies and cupcakes! I really love being able to create such beautiful edible art. I am also a professional photography for weddings, engagements and other assorted events.
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DIY DIY WEDDINGS WEDDINGS || diyweddingsmag.com diyweddingsmag.com
Mikkel Paige | DESIGNER CAKES
ABOUT THE CAKE:
PHOTOGRAPHY: MIKKEL PAIGE
3 of the 4 layers are dummy cakes covered with ivory and white Satin Ice fondant then decorated accordingly. The quilted bottom layer has sugar pearls on it and the top layer was piped with royal icing. Gumpaste Cymbidium Orchids were handmade by me. The layer that was cut by the bride and groom was lemon cake.
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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DESIGNER CAKES | Ph.D.~serts & Cakes
Melanie Judge TAMPA | FLORIDA WWW.PHDSERTS.COM
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INSPIRATION: This suitcase cake was designed entirely by the bride. She wanted a unique wedding cake but one that still fit within the wedding theme and added to the elegance of the evening. The suitcases were created to celebrate the couple's upcoming honeymoon to St. Lucia and creatively incorporated the wedding colors.
ABOUT PH.D~SERTS & CAKES: Melanie Judge has been decorating cakes since 2008. She discovered her passion during her graduate studies at the University of Florida. Ironically, she was pursuing a Ph.D. in biomedical research, studying obesity. As a stress reliever, she began by taking Wilton Method courses at Michael's Craft Stores and was offered a teaching position the month after she finished the courses. Because her thirst for knowledge is not easily quenched, she scoured the public library shelves for cake decorating books and learned more advanced techniques, like extension work and gum paste flowers, on her own.
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
Ph.D.~serts & Cakes | DESIGNER CAKES
SUITCASE TRIO: For decorations, the cake was iced with buttercream and then covered in fondant, which is like an edible sugary dough. Then the dough was textured (the diamond pattern and stitching on the top tier, and the band around the suitcase on the bottom tier). On the middle tier, I hand-piped the blue scroll pattern. The metal pieces on the suitcases were also made of fondant and painted with an edible silver paint.
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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ADVICE | Annemarie Juhlian
Hey, Mom-To-Be! HOW TO ELEGANTLY INCLUDE YOUR GUY’S MOTHER IN YOUR WEDDING 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.”
Mothers love a wedding. Oftentimes, the Mother of the Groom takes a back seat to the Mother of the Bride and is less involved in wedding planning activities and wedding day festivities. As you plan your wedding day, here are 5 tips to elegantly include the mother of your groom in your wedding day festivities. By intentionally creating opportunities for your guy's mom to participate and contribute to your wedding day, you are potentially creating lifetime memories and sweet opportunities to deepen your relationship and bond with your future other-in-law. 5 Tips To Share Wedding Love and Memories With Your Mom-To-Be: 1) Suggest That Your Guy's Mother Hosts A Gal's Luncheon: Women love hosting very special events and a wedding is no exception. Given this, you may consider offering your future mother-in-law the opportunity to host a special luncheon or event for you. This gives the two of you the opportunity to work together on a pre-wedding event and provides your future mom-in-law with a fun event to own and plan. 2) Give Your Groom’s Mother A Big Job Before Your Wedding Day: As you put together your planning task list for your wedding day and "day of time line," think about what "big job" you could hand off to your guy's mom.
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The key here is to make this a very fun job. Perhaps you put your sweetie's mother in charge of creating a short list of wedding cake bakers or going with you to look for your wedding dress as part of your "wedding dress council." Take advantage of pre-planning tasks around your wedding ceremony and celebration to thoughtfully include your future mother-in-law in a big task that is meaningful and contributes to the joy of your day. 3) Show Appreciation and Authentic Gratitude. This goes without saying and what the heck, let's say it again! You can never express too much authentic appreciation and gratitude. As the days come closer to your big day, take appropriate time and action to properly thank your mom-in-law as you move along the road to your wedding. This could be with a simple phone call, email note or better yet, a hand-written note. A wedding brings up "stuff" and such an event is often an emotional roller coaster of transition and change not only for the bride and groom but immediate family as well. Take the high and honorable road and weave in plenty of kudos for your guy's mom. 4) Ask For Suggestions and Feedback From Your Mom-InLaw: As you plan your wedding, drop an email note or pick up the phone on occasion and check-in with your mom-in-law. This not only includes her in your inner circle but when done well, extends invitations to your guy's mom for her input, thoughts and feedback. This gesture just takes a moment and is hugely thoughtful and respectful, too. 5) Wedding Ceremony Rose & Note Card: Surprise your guy's mom with a special rose and hand-written note card at processional. As your groom walks his mother down the aisle, have him give his mom a hug at the front area. Before mother is seated, your sweetie will pick up a waiting rose and note card and present this to his mom as a surprise. The note would be from the two of you expressing your gratitude and joy at sharing your married life with your guy's mom. Note: The note card could also be written to the groom's parents to be more inclusive!
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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PHOTOGRAPHY: DEBORAH ZOE
Annemarie Juhlian | ADVICE
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 | Deposit A Gift
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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RECIPES | Do It For Less! Experts
Wonderland
winter
The key to a great winter menu is to make use of what is readily available; don’t get your heart set on out-of-season fruits and vegetables. This menu is perfect for winter weddings as it relies on product that is easy to find at any time of year, not just in winter. It is easily set up as a buffet or plated for sit-down service. It can also be dressed up or down to suit casual weddings or more sophisticated weddings and it works just as well for lunch as it does for dinner. For color schemes, mimic the winter landscape by using tonal whites like cream, vanilla, and winter white. Colors like ice blue, mushroom brown, and dove gray make beautiful complements to true whites. Accent with metallics to spark the magic of the season. Print invitations using a metallic ink and send in an envelope lined in metallic and stamp with a wax seal. For an unusual save-the-date card, purchase vintage or handmade ornaments (preferably in a material not easily breakable) and send to invitees with the announcement printed either on the box or on a tag attached to the ornament. As for flowers, silver-dollar or baby-blue eucalyptus mixed with white flowers such as roses, crocus, or lilies convey the right mood. For non-flower options, bundle branches together and stand up vertically, binding them with twine or metallic ribbon; fill large glass containers with ornaments and ribbon; or use metallic runners or netting over thick white tablecloths for sparkling festivity. Holiday sugar cookies make excellent favors when delicately frosted and bagged in silvery or white organza gift bags. Or tie silver bows to the outside of frosted glass tea light holders and then fill them with a white or metallic candle. If you find a tea light with a wintery or holiday smell, this makes the small gift even more charming. Make your own packaging for favors by folding sturdy wedding wrapping paper into bags, cones or boxes and adding ribbon or beads.
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
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
W I N T E R
W O N D E R L A N D
M E N U
Demitasse of Creamy Carrot Ginger Soup Endive Salad with Apples, Pecans, and Roquefort His and Hers Beef Wellingtons Truffled Mashed Potatoes (purchased) Lemon-Butter Broccolini
MENU COUNTDOWN 1-2 weeks before, shop for nonperishables, buy beverages, prepare soup and freeze 4 days before, shop for duxelles and filets 3 days before, make duxelles for Wellingtons 2 days before, sear filets for Wellingtons, shop for remaining perishables 1 day before, assemble Wellingtons, make vinaigrette for salad, combine lemon-butter for broccolini, blanch broccolini, thaw soup The morning of the wedding, slice apples and toss with lemon juice 1-2 hours ahead, warm soup, assemble salad and keep chilled, assemble mashed potatoes and keep warm
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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RECIPES | Do It For Less! Experts
Demitasse of Creamy Carrot Ginger Soup
Makes 12 servings, serving size 1/2 cup
Endive Salad with Apples, Pecans, and Roquefort
Makes 12 servings, serving size 3 endive leaves or a scant cup of greens
Serve in demitasse or espresso cups or in tiny bowls or sake cups. To serve in sake cups, make half the amount specified below. Top each serving with a chive trimmed in half. Balance a slice of toasted baguette, breadstick or cracker on the edge of each bowl.
Substitute arugula or even spinach if endive is difficult to find. You can substitute hazelnuts or walnuts for the pecans, or use candied or spiced nuts. Any “blue” cheese works well here, including Gorgonzola and Stilton.
Ingredients:
Ingredients:
1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil 3/4 cup leeks, white and pale green part only, sliced 1/2 onion large onion, chopped 2 stalks celery, chopped 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, peeled and grated 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth 7 medium carrots (about 1 1/2 pounds), peeled and sliced Sea salt to taste Freshly ground black pepper to taste 6 chives, snipped in half
3 tablespoons Dijon mustard 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice Sea salt to taste Freshly ground black pepper to taste 1 cup extra-virgin olive oil 3 tablespoons shallots, minced 1 tablespoon rosemary, minced, plus small sprigs for garnish 2 tablespoons flat leaf parsley, minced 3/4 cup dried cherries or cranberries 1 Granny Smith or Pippin apple, cored and chopped into tiny cubes 1 Gala, Pink Lady, or Fuji apple, cored and chopped into tiny cubes 3/4 cup pecan halves, toasted 3 heads (about 1 pound) endive, leaves separated 1/2 cup crumbled Roquefort cheese
Directions: Set a large pot over medium-high heat and add the oil. Add the leek, onion, celery, and ginger. Sauté until the onion is soft, about 5 minutes. Add the broth and carrots and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until the carrots are soft, about 30 minutes. Working in batches, purée the carrot mixture in the work bowl of a food processor or blender until smooth. Before serving, season to taste with salt and pepper, and then garnish with chives.
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Directions: To make the vinaigrette, place the mustard and lemon juice in a blender or in the work bowl of a food processor. Season with salt and pepper, and blend to combine and dissolve the salt. Add the olive oil and blend until creamy. Add the shallots, rosemary, and parsley, and pulse once or twice until combined. Taste and adjust seasonings. Store in an airtight container up to a day in advance. Combine the dried cherries and chopped apples in a medium mixing bowl. Add the dressing and stir to coat well. If not serving immediately, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 hours. Just before serving, stir the toasted pecans into the apple mixture. Divide the endive leaves among salad plates. If using 2 endive leaves per person, place the first one horizontally pointing right, and place the other beneath it horizontally pointing left. If using 3 leaves per person, add the third leaf below the others and point again to the right. Alternatively, arrange the leaves in a star shape with each “petal” pointing outward. Spoon a bit of the apple mixture into the pointed end of each endive leaf. Sprinkle each plate with a bit of Roquefort cheese to garnish.
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
Do It For Less! Experts | RECIPES
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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RECIPES | Do It For Less! Experts
Traditional Beef Wellington calls for a slice of foie gras atop the filet. You can keep costs down by using any smooth duck or chicken pate or by omitting the foie gras entirely. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure proper cooking time (see the Meat Doneness Table on p. 48).
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
Do It For Less! Experts | RECIPES
His and Hers Beef Wellingtons Makes 12 servings, serving size 1 piece
Ingredients: 2 1/4 pounds button or cremini mushroom caps and stems, cleaned and halved 1/4 cup olive oil, or as needed for sautéing 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 6 shallots, minced Sea salt, to taste Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1/2 cup brandy 1/4 cup heavy cream 12 (4 ounce) filet mignon steaks, about 1 inch thick 4 sheets frozen puff pastry, thawed 1 pound pâté de foie gras, sliced into1/4-in-thick pcs (optional) 3 large eggs 2 tablespoons water
Directions: To make the mushroom duxelles, pulse the mushrooms in batches in the bowl of a food processor until finely chopped, but not mushy. Set a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons olive oil and the butter. Add the shallots and sauté until softened and lightly golden, about 5 minutes. Add 2 more tablespoons of olive oil to the shallots, increase the heat to medium-high, and stir in the mushrooms. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste, and sauté until the mushrooms have released their juices. (You will likely need to cook the mushrooms in batches or have several sauté pans going at once. Use 2 tablespoons of olive oil to sauté each pan of mushrooms. Divide the brandy and heavy cream evenly among the batches or pans so that all the mushrooms can absorb their flavors.) Once the mushrooms have released their juices, stir in the brandy. When the brandy has completely evaporated, stir in the heavy cream and remove the pan from the heat. Spread the mixture in large, rimmed sheet pans to cool quickly in the refrigerator, and then transfer to an airtight container until ready to assemble the Wellingtons. The duxelles can be made up to 3 days in advance. Pat the filet mignons dry with paper towels and generously season with salt and pepper on both sides. Set a large, heavy skillet over high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and sear the filets just until browned on both sides and an instant-read thermometer registers 110 degrees for rare. (The filets will cook again in the oven, so it’s important not to overcook them during the searing process.) The filets can be seared 2 days in advance. Let cool, and then cover and refrigerate until ready to assemble the Wellingtons. If assembling immediately, let the filets cool at least 30 minutes before proceeding.
Prepare an assembly line for the Wellingtons: a floured workspace for rolling out the dough, the seared and cooled filets, the pâté (if using), and the duxelles. Combine the eggs and water in a mixing bowl, whisking until well combined. Line the baking sheets with parchment paper. Working with only 1 sheet at a time, cut the puff pastry dough into four pieces. Roll out each square to 6 or 7 inches. Place a seared filet in the middle, spread with the pâté (if using), and top with 1/4 cup of the duxelle mixture. If topping the Wellingtons with initials or a decoration, fold one corner of the dough over the top of the duxelles. Brush the opposite corner of dough with egg wash and fold over the first piece of dough. Repeat with the remaining two corners, pressing out any excess air and crimping the seams to seal. Place the Wellington seamside down on a baking sheet covered with parchment paper, and continue assembling the remaining Wellingtons. To decorate the Wellingtons, roll out additional dough and cut out initials or decorative elements with cookie cutters or a knife. Affix to the top of each Wellington with egg wash. Cover the assembled pastries loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes until the dough is chilled or up to a day in advance until ready to bake. Cover and refrigerate the remaining egg wash to use before baking. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 425 degrees and gently brush the chilled Wellingtons with egg wash. Bake the pastries until golden brown, about 20 minutes, and turn the baking sheets midway if needed for even cooking. Serve immediately.
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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RECIPES | Do It For Less! Experts
Truffled Mashed Potatoes
Lemon-Butter Broccolini
We call for already-prepared mashed potatoes here. Try a variety of brands before the big day as they’re not all created equal.
Broccolini looks like small broccoli with very long, green stems. It is actually a cross between broccoli and Chinese kale. If you can’t find broccolini at your local grocery, you can replace it with many green vegetables to great success. Broccoli, asparagus, sugar snap peas, spinach, green beans, or baby bok choy would all work fabulously well.
Makes 12 servings, serving size 3-4 ounces
Makes 12 servings, serving size 3-4 pieces
Ingredients: 3 pounds prepared mashed potatoes, thawed in the refrigerator if frozen 1 1/2 tablespoons truffle oil 1/4 cup chives, finely chopped Sea salt to taste Freshly ground black pepper to taste 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (optional) 1/3 cup heavy cream, warmed (optional)
Ingredients: 2 pounds broccolini, stems trimmed 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice 2 tablespoons lemon zest Sea salt to taste Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Directions: Heat the mashed potatoes in the microwave or on the stovetop according to package directions. When the potatoes are hot, stir in half the truffle oil, the chives, and salt and pepper. Taste, adding more truffle oil, salt, and pepper to taste. For creamier potatoes, add the butter and cream, a little at a time, until the desired consistency and taste is reached.
Directions: Place a large pot of salted water over high heat and bring to a boil. Working in batches if necessary, blanch the broccolini for 1 minute until bright green. Place under cold running water or plunge in a large bowl of ice water to stop the cooking; drain well. If making ahead, store the drained broccolini in resealable plastic bags in the refrigerator. Bring the broccolini to room temperature before sautéing. Working in batches, heat a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil and 1 tablespoon of butter for each batch, and add as much broccolini as will comfortably fit (don’t crowd!). Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes, until warmed through but still bright green and crisp-tender. Toss with the lemon zest and lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.
MEAT DONENESS TABLE Seared Temperature rare 110 degrees
medium-rare
medium
medium-well
well done
120 degrees
130 degrees
145 degrees
150 degrees
165 degrees
170 degrees
Finished Temperature 130 degrees
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140 degrees
150 degrees
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
Do It For Less! Experts | RECIPES
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.
Q
: Mr. M Famous,
I am at the end of my rope, and I need you to weigh in. My fiancé and I have scrimped and saved for what feels like a lifetime to host the wedding of our dreams. We are paying for everything! We have so many friends who are near and dear, so the guest list is a little unconventional. For our friends who are single, but part of a larger friend group, we only listed their name on the invite. But, for those friends who might not know many other guests, we invited them as plus one. Here’s the kicker - As the “singles” RSVP, they are including additional headcount on their responses when their invitation was addressed just to them. These additions are causing a headcount increase, which we cannot accommodate - how do we best mitigate this issue and let people know they can't bring a guest? OR are we being the rude ones here? Thanks in advance, Seeing Double
Answer: Thank you for this question. I assure you that this is a situation that many other people deal with as well. We all have friends who have had a steady partner or spouse for an extended length of time. That extra person may not have begun as your friend but throughout their relationship they have become a part of your group by default. On the contrary we also have friends who are serial daters and change “not so significant others” like Lady Gaga changes her hair. These “Date today and Dumped tomorrow” people simply have no reason to attend your wedding except for the free drinks! In this situation when a friend RSVP’s with a plus one and was not given that option, you can simply reply with, “I am so sorry, but we are extremely tight on seating at the venue. There is simply not enough room for extra attendees. We are keeping the guest list small with only close friends and family.” This puts the responsibility back on them to do the right thing. Besides, if they get upset over their new flavor of the month not coming, then you probably don’t want them
there anyway. Thank you again for the question, and I am sending you thoughts of happiness and love! BE M Famous, Mr. M Famous
Q
: Mr. M Famous, I am hoping this is going to be quick and painless. I am in full wedding planning mode, which probably means full-bitch mode. People are calling to ask if they can bring their year-old toddler, their 6-month old baby and their 5-year-old kid. I do NOT want to hear a baby cry or a kid talking during one of the most important moments of my life - how can we politely tell them their children should stay home? HELP! Cry Baby
A: Oh I am sure my response to this will get me plenty of emails! Growing up as a southern gentleman, I was always raised that children, though adorable and a blessing, have their place. I’m sure you know the old saying, “Seen and not heard.” Well I have to agree! There are just some places that I do not want to hear a baby crying. Now don’t get me wrong, I do want children someday and believe that parents deserve respect. I also buy into the notion that no one thinks that YOUR children are as cute as YOU do This topic has to be addressed both quickly and tactfully. This reminds me of the hip-hop classic, “Blame it on the a- a- a- a-a-aALCOHOL!” In all seriousness, tell the parents that like their children’s pampers, this wedding will not be DRY. You prefer adults only. If they will be coming in from out-of-town, recommend a good nanny or sitter or include his or her number in your invitation. This information will give them a solution as well as firmly state your opinion. Great question and thank you for writing in! Childless by Choice, Mr. M Famous
CONNECT WITH ME
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
ask M Famous | ADVICE
Q
: Mr. M Famous,
We are two men having a same-sex wedding ceremony. We're trying hard to move away from using terms such as "bridal registry" or "bridal party" and are instead using terms like "wedding party" or "groomsmaids" for the ladies in our wedding party. When we enter our ceremony, do you have any advice on how to order things so that one of us doesn't seem like the "bride" and one of us the "groom," We want to better reflect that this is a non-traditional ceremony and there is no bride.
Q
: Mr. M Famous, I need some help with Fashion 101. I am getting married in December, and my dress is strapless. Everyone keeps telling me to get something with sleeves, but I just don’t love that look. So, how do you feel about fur? I think I might like to wear a fur wrap or maybe even a muff. But, here’s the small issue, I can’t afford real fur, plus I don’t know where I truly stand on that whole issue. I don’t want to look cheap. I am aiming for timeless. BTW, I am a little obsessed with you. I follow on Twitter. Greatly appreciate the help, Ice Princess
Thanks and LOVE the column! Grooms-to-be
A: “Let’s Hear it for the Boys!”
PHOTOGRAPHY: WAI REYES PHOTOGRAPHY
Sorry I couldn’t resist a Deniece Williams reference. I am so excited that you wrote in, and thank you for being a fan of the column. I can completely understand your concern about eliminating the feminine role from the ceremony. Contrary to what some may think - gay weddings do not include one man in a Vera Wang gown. I suggest that you both enter the hall from opposite sides of the room after your wedding party is in place. You could also stagger your wedding party boy, girl, boy, girl so as to not have a more masculine side of the room. Weddings come in many different forms. Man and Woman, Man and Man, or Woman and Woman. Marriage is about love, and I hope that you boys have a lifetime of it! Now if you would like, I think you should exit to a little “We Are Family” by Sister Sledge…Just kidding.
A: Well dear princess, I love this question! I for one am a fan of fur. PETA if you are reading, please notice I didn’t say REAL fur (though I am not confirming or denying). Please don’t email me. You have many different faux fur options that look and feel real without the enormous price tag of chinchilla. Besides even if you tell people it is faux we don’t say fake – you will seem more socially conscious. As for the addition of the muff, I would say that would have to be influenced by the climate. If you are getting married here in Atlanta, then you know that even in December, it can be down right balmy. If it is not cold enough, then the addition of such an accessory may look too “costumy.” I love the thought of a winter wedding and think you are definitely on the right track. I am flattered by your obsession, and I look forward to seeing you in the twitter feed!
Congrats to you both, Mr. M Famous Congrats! 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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DIY PROJECT | Christy Graham {Bride}
DIY TABLE LANTERNS 1
2
3
4
5
6
Table
Table 1
MATERIALS USED: Vellum paper {8 1/2 x 11} Photo of flower Photo of yourselves Swirls or other designs Photoshop or MS Word Scissors Tape or glue
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
Christy Graham {Bride} | DIY PROJECT
THANK YOU CHRISTY GORDON-GRAHAM FOR SHARING YOUR DIY WEDDING PROJECT WITH US! INSTRUCTIONS FOR MS WORD: 1.
Open up the program you are using and create a 8 1/2 x 11, landscape template.
2.
Add a swirl or design that you like and paste it into the template.
3.
Should look like this.
4.
You will now start to layer steps 4-6. Find a photo of yourselves. Add it to the left side of the template. You will layer the photo and pattern and use the opacity to select how you want these to look.
5.
Add the word “Table” in the font you chose.
6.
Add flower. Add the table number in on top of the flower using the same font.
7.
Print out 2 copies and cut out slots shown in diagram.
8.
Glue or tape together at tabs.
Note: Vellum paper comes in an ray of colors and patterns.
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
RealWeddings
WEDDING: November 13, 2010 ♼ PHOTOGRAPHER: Brooke Christl Photography RECEPTION: The Cooper House, Surfside Beach, SC See more of their wedding on diyweddingsmag.com
Rainee & George
DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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REAL WEDDINGS | Rainee & George
How did you two meet? We first met at a high school football game where our two schools were playing against each other. George was a senior from one school, and I was a freshman from the other. Both of us were in NJROTC (Naval Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps). George joined the Marine Corps while I stayed in high school. A year after that George was stationed in Washington D.C. when he decided to get onto a website that found people in your hometown area to talk to. He ended up finding my sister and getting my phone number from her. He began calling, and we would talk for hours. After a few months he found out that he would be able to visit back home in South Carolina for a month before he left to be stationed in California. When he arrived and we reunited, we were inseparable. He asked me to be his girlfriend within the first week and he bought me a promise ring. A few months later he was deployed to Iraq. How long was your engagement? We got engaged in December of 2009 and got married November 13, 2010. So, almost a year (11 months). What inspired your wedding theme? When deciding on a theme, I was torn between doing an outdoor whimsical, woodsy wedding, or a Victorian era themed wedding, so I ended up doing a little bit of both by having a rustic Victorian wedding. I have always loved the Victorian era and the way women looked so classic and elegant. I used lace for almost everything in the wedding. What inspired your wedding color palette? My favorite color has always been yellow, so I always knew that I wanted yellow as one of the colors. After looking through different color options, I decided on yellow, gold, and champagne. I chose these colors because they looked gorgeous together and set the mood for the theme that I was going for. These colors added so much to the wedding by making everything feel majestic, romantic, and give that classic antique look. What was special about where you got married? I knew we would definitely want the wedding in a church since George and I are both Christians. One day I was on the web and clicked on a picture of a beautiful all wooden chapel with amazing architecture and the kind of look that you would expect to find in a medieval fairytale. The inside of the church was completely wooden as well. Even the pews were all wood and were made into the floor. The pews were also in a semi-circle around the alter. I was in love and had to find out where this chapel was. I found out it was part of Pawleys Island Community church. I decided to drive the 45 minutes to the church where I found the chapel sitting beautifully beside the church hidden by trees and flowers. The chapel is older and is no longer used for worship services.
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DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
Rainee & George
What do-it-yourself projects did you do? Invitations - I ordered the invitations online from InvitationConsultants.com. They were perfect because they really gave that royal, medieval, vintage, romantic look that I was going for. In order to accentuate that, I also added an insert with a sepia colored picture of us letting people know to go to our wedding website (ewedding.com). I also tied the invitation packet together with a gold ropelike thread and inserted a gold glitter leaf inside to add to the romance of it. I wrote the address in an old script hand writing in a gold pen and sealed the back of the envelope with melted wax that George and I dripped on and then stamped with our soon to be initial "K". We got the wax and stamper and thread from Michaels. Many have told me that it was the most beautiful wedding invitation that they had ever seen. Shoes - I wanted lace shoes and could not find them anywhere. I bought champagne colored Steve Madden's and hot glued lace onto them to make my perfect shoe. They came out looking wonderful like designer shoes, but they were made one of a kind for me. Initials - On the Chapel doors I made our initials "R" and "G" out of branches, fake
greenery and flowers all from Michaels with gold lace ribbon to hang on the doors. The project took quite some time, but I loved them and now they hang in my house on either sides of our canopy bed.
explain what the name meant. It was really fun because it personalized it for us as well as made it fun for people to go around and look at other tables and what they said.
Escort Cards - At the reception, guests first had to find their names on the clothesline that was full of brown paper bags and gold clothespins in alphabetical order on the porch. Once they found their name on one of the paper bags, they unclipped it, and inside was the table name for where they would sit at. Each table was named instead of numbered and each name had some sort of relevance to George and I. So one would be the name of the restaurant he took me on our first date, or one would be the name of our dog, or one would be the place he proposed, etc.
Favors - For the wedding favors, I went to a local chocolate store called Canipes and got milk chocolate leaves made to look like fall colors. The leaves were all different shapes, colors, and sizes and looked like real leaves. I then had them put into bags that said '"Fall"en for each other' with our names and wedding date since the wedding was in November.
Cake Topper - I also had our cake topper personalized and made to look like caricatures of us. They were made out of clay from a woman I found online in Hong Kong (weddingcaketoppersideas.com). Centerpieces - Once they got to their They were wonderfully hilarious and a big assigned table on either the first or second hit at the reception. floor of the house, they noticed the centerpiece which was a tree branch What advice do you have for other (picked from our backyard) that almost brides? looked like a miniature tree spray painted To follow your timelines in order to avoid metallic gold and sitting inside of a mason stress, and try to add as many personal jar full of buttons, sewing pins, yarn, and touches that are special to you and your wine corks. Each "gold tree" looked groom in order to make the day really different, and on each one hung two special. ornaments with yellow yarn. One of the ornaments would say the name of the table, and the other ornament would DIY WEDDINGS | diyweddingsmag.com
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AppStore Versions
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