Bellwether Thoughts

Decatur House - Tented Wedding Reception

2012-03-06T08:00:00.000-05:00

As promised, I am back with more photos from Laurie Bracewell. Here is the wonderful wedding reception in the tent of the Decatur House in Washington DC. We were able to pull off this room flip with ease because the client used some pipe & drape to section off a part of the tent during the ceremony, so that the tables could be fully set before the ceremony even began.

Photos made by Laurie Bracewell, please do not use without permission.

Decatur House: Tented Wedding Ceremony

2012-03-05T08:00:00.002-05:00

Big thanks to Laurie Bracewell for sharing these great photos of Lisa and Bernards's September 2011 wedding. Their ceremony was in the tent, the cocktail reception was in the Carriage House while the tent was flipped, the dinner was back in the tent, and then dancing was back in the Carriage House. Here are the ceremony photos. Check back tomorrow for reception photos!

Photographs made by Laurie Bracewelll. Do not use without permission.

An Asymmetrical Bridal Bouquet

2012-03-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

I simply adore this color-blocked and asymmetrical bridal bouquet. This was used in a photo shoot but I would love to see it in a wedding. Created by Greenworks.

Photos courtesy of Allison & Chris Britton Photography. Do not use without permission.

Woodend Wedding: the extras

2012-02-29T08:00:00.000-05:00

I hope you don't think I am beating this wedding to death. It was so fun and the photographs are so beautiful. Sidra Forman did a great job with the florals (and pumpkins!). The two trees off the portico are perfect for escort cards (bonus = you save on renting a table & linen). And I adore the portrait in front of the cases of birds. People have very strong opinions about those birds!

Photos made by Stephen Voss. Do not use without permission.

The Metro (Washington DC)

2012-02-28T08:00:00.000-05:00

If you have a chance, take some photos in a Metro station.

Photos courtesy of Stephen Voss. Do not use without permission.

Janice in action

2012-02-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

Big thanks to Stephen Voss Photography - I don't think I've been in this many photos from one wedding. It's kind of fun!

70,000 Bouncey Balls

2012-02-24T12:58:00.001-05:00

Down a street in San Francisco

Wheat Thins Sponsortunity

2012-02-24T11:01:00.001-05:00

I was crying-laughing last night

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Woodend Mansion: The Hemlock Grove

2012-02-24T08:00:00.001-05:00

Woodend Mansion, part of the Audubon Society, in Chevy Chase, Maryland, is a popular place to get married. One reason is the beautiful Hemlock Grove, that offers an ideal spot for an outdoor ceremony.

Photos courtesy of Stephen Voss Photography. Do not use without permission.

Strathmore: The Mansion

2012-02-23T12:01:00.004-05:00

Strathmore Mansion is a totally different look than Strathmore Music Center, but beautiful and awesome events can be held at either location! This particular Maryland wedding was an intimate gathering for 55 guests, but I have also done a wedding of 200 at Strathmore Mansion - of course the ceremony was at a church and there were a number of tents involved!

Photos courtesy of Joy Lyn Photography. Do not use without permission.

Strathmore Music Center

2012-02-23T08:00:00.002-05:00

This winter wedding was at the Strathmore Music Center in Maryland. They held their ceremony in an atypical spot - a balcony over the lobby. The reception with all the lighting looks amazing! You have to do lighting at Strathmore!

All photos courtesy of Mary Kate McKenna. Do not use without permission.

Nationals Park Wedding - The extras

2012-02-22T08:00:00.002-05:00

This couple was pretty laid back, but still fun and quite eclectic. Here are some of the fun extra details of their wedding.

A stacked "cake" of cheese.

They have their own personal muppets who attended the wedding in appropriate attire.

Please note the fireworks on the Jumbotron as the ceremony ended.

Petal's Edge Floral Design created these pomanders for the escort card table.

Did I forget to mention the guests of honor, the Racing Presidents?!!

All photos courtesy of Ralph Alswang Photography. Please do not use without permission.

Nationals Park Wedding - Pennant Flags

2012-02-21T08:00:00.001-05:00

I actually made these pennant flags! I think they are totally awesome and perfect for a wedding at a baseball stadium! I created them as a surprise to the bride & groom - and they loved them! I paired the flags with yellow pom poms for the guests to use before and after the ceremony. Overall I think the paraphernalia was a big hit and looked good too.

All photos courtesy of Ralph Alswang Photography. Do not use without permission.

Nationals Park Wedding - Batting Practice

2012-02-20T08:00:00.004-05:00

Batting Practice anyone? I must admit, I was surprised at how much the guests were into taking BP at this Nationals Park wedding. We did it during cocktail hour and the pitcher never got a break! Batter up!

Photos courtesy of Ralph Alswang Photography. Do not use without permission.

The Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington DC

2012-02-17T08:00:00.004-05:00

Looks good, right? Lighting is so important. Please get as much of it as you can afford.

Photos courtesy of Deb Lindsey Photography. Do not use without permission.

An Adorable Flower Girl Fiasco

2012-02-16T08:00:00.001-05:00

I was warned. Four flower girls under the age of four. The bride & groom had good spirits about it - if the girls made it down the aisle, great, if not - it won't be the end of the world.

Well, in typical flower girl form, the baskets were dumped over at the top of the aisle. And then the petals had to be picked up and put back in the basket. The guests laughed. I got involved. Everything was fine. The couple didn't mind when two of the flower girls started playing with the petals again in the middle of the ceremony.

If you want to have kids in your wedding party, this is the right attitude to have.

All photos courtesy of Deb Lindsey Photography. Do not use without permission.

Can't beat a water view

2012-02-15T08:00:00.000-05:00

This is an oldie but a goodie. I just adore this photo by Matt Mendelsohn. This wedding ceremony and reception was at Woodlawn Manor in Ridge, Maryland.

Happy Valentine's Day

2012-02-14T14:41:00.001-05:00

Grab the tissues...

DAR - O'Byrne Gallery reception

2012-02-14T08:00:00.001-05:00

This is such a beautiful space for a wedding reception. I really love the Daughters of the American Revolution's O'Byrne Gallery. As you can see, we are maxing it out at 14 dinner tables (which equals about 140 guests).

Photo courtesy of Mary Kate McKenna Photography. Do not use without permission.

DAR Portico - Wedding Ceremony

2012-02-13T08:00:00.001-05:00

It wasn't a full "rain out" but it was chilly, windy, sprinkling and all around untrustworthy weather on Lisa and Ben's wedding day. They really wanted to brave it and hold the ceremony outside. Working with the caterer, Design Cuisine, we were able to fit around 90 chairs on the Portico of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) building in Washington DC. Guests were happy - they all had a seat. And the couple was happy - they got married outside. My here is done.

Photo courtesy of Mary Kate McKenna. Please do not use without permission.

The Line sings "American Girl" by Tom Petty on The Voice

2012-02-11T19:07:00.002-05:00

Watch out, I am going to be posting a lot from The Voice this year. I can't believe how they have raised the bar in terms of the talent level from last year. I loved the artists last year. This year is looking to be no different.

And I just can't get this dang song out of my head!

You have to have a rain plan

2012-02-10T08:00:00.000-05:00

Mukta and James' ceremony was all set up for the Hotel Monaco's courtyard. And then we had a surprise thunderstorm. Thankfully the hotel staff was top notch and got Plan B into place with lightning speed. We were also able to move the gold chivari chairs quickly, as they were also to be used for dinner. Mukta and James handled the change in good spirits in part because they completed all of their portrait sessions before the rain started.

All photos courtesy of Amie Otto. Do not use without permission.

Smooth Criminal - Cellos!

2012-02-09T10:53:00.002-05:00

You can hate the show, I am OK with that. But you can't deny how amazing these cellos are!

Be Prepared

2012-02-09T08:00:00.002-05:00

This awesome client had something like 24 boxes of alcohol at the start of their reception. We did not run out. I think I sent them home with about half of it. But they were happy to be prepared!

Photo courtesy of Deb Lindesy Photography. Do not use without permission.

It's Halftime, America

2012-02-06T09:46:00.002-05:00

Here is another breath-taking and brilliant ad from Chrylser (what, you have already forgotten about the goosebump-giving Eminem ad from last year?). Whoever is their ad agency, I want them to be my agency.

Budweiser for the win!

2012-02-04T11:39:00.004-05:00

I can't wait for all the new commercials we will see tomorrow night. As I did last year, I will post all of my favorites with commentary.

But when Scott Stratten turned me onto this one a few days early, I had to share it right away. Scott is right - "Budweiser wins the Super Bowl and wins the internet." Every time I watch it, I tear up. It's so great. Talk about a flash mob.

One Year Later - RIP John Garrighan

2012-01-30T00:01:00.002-05:00

I met John when he was 15, and I was 18. His band, The Berlin Project, recorded a cover of Snoop Dogg's Gin and Juice, and it was that record that brought me to their show at Club Laga in Pittsburgh, and forever altered my life. I know that sounds dramatic, but it's true. My adoration for TBP led me to embracing the ska, alternative and pop punk genres. Music is hugely influential in my life and I owe a lot to John. It was a sad end to a short life that overflowed with potential.

The first song on this slideshow is Aberdeen 3:06, which is just John and Steve Soboslai from Punchline. It is one of my favorite songs of all time.

The President of the United State of South Carolina

2012-01-21T08:00:00.001-05:00

You may or may not know, but Stephen Colbert is possibly considering thinking about running for President of the United States of South Carolina. With the South Carolina primary upon us, I think he should adopt this song in his campaign.

"The Space Between" by Valencia

Timing for Portraits

2012-01-20T15:08:00.001-05:00

If you decide to do a "first look" with your betrothed before the ceremony (and I strongly suggest that you do), I am going to advise that you take an hour for "couple portraits" and thirty minutes each for wedding party portraits and immediate family portraits. You will likely look at me like I have two heads. But I promise, the extra time is worth it! Photos like these beauties do not happen in ten minutes!

Happy wedding day Lisa & Ben. And HUGE thanks to Mary Kate McKenna for sharing the photos!

I love: A Wedding Band

2012-01-10T08:00:00.002-05:00

This is why you hire a live band. Because you always need more cow bell.

Photo by Abby Jiu

I love: Late Night Food

2012-01-09T08:00:00.002-05:00

Sometimes you book a place, like a hotel, and you have to meet a food and beverage (F&B) minimum. And sometimes your guest list is smaller than expected. So at the last minute you get to add a bunch of awesome upgrades to your menu and bar.We got to do this at Katie and Travis' wedding reception at The Willard in October. The guests, who had been dancing for 2.5 hours straight at this point, were thrilled with the snack!

Photos by Abby Jiu

Punchline Rules!

2012-01-06T14:00:00.001-05:00

The past few days have been quite a roller coaster, with many more highs than lows. The low: the album did not release at the time that we thought. It came out 17 hours later. Boo! But then the highs:
Punchline climbed to the very tippy top of the iTunes Rock Album Chart! And hung around in the top 3 for many days! This is more impressive when you consider the stiff competition they have from other bands you may have heard of - The Beatles, Metallica, Nickelback and The Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Punchline climbed to number SEVEN on the overall iTunes Album Chart! We were particularly excited to see them surpass LMFAO.

And at some point on Wednesday, Punchline was trending on Twitter in Pittsburgh. I thought this would be the easiest thing to do - but it was a lot harder than I assumed!

I am so thrilled for my friends Steve, Chris, Paul and Cory. I am also super impressed by their very strong and loyal fan base, which spans the globe!

If you want to check out and maybe even buy the album, and missed my past 5 links to it, click here.

You Are My Universe

2012-01-06T09:40:00.004-05:00

You can download the song here.

You can buy the song here.

Artwork by Jason Doring.

Let's get warmed up

2012-01-04T10:00:00.001-05:00

Buy it Now!

2012-01-03T17:33:00.002-05:00

The EP is now for sale. Please check it out and buy it!

Bee Patient

2012-01-03T12:49:00.004-05:00

I am once again my teenage self waiting for the mailman to bring my latest order from Delia*s. Or some other situation where you are waiting for something good to happen, so you are trying not to get mad, but it's hard because patience is hard. Excitement. Exasperation. Frustration. Anticipation. Not to mention exhaustion from staying up till 3 am last night hoping it would come online.

Apparently iTunes closed its offices over the holidays and they are behind on getting new music, including Punchline's So Nice To Meet You, onto the website. This song is the first tune on the ep. I really like it.

So Nice To Meet You

2012-01-02T14:10:00.002-05:00

Here is the ep artwork. From left to right: Cory, Steve, Chris, Paul. You can check out the first track Universe here. (look for the words Music Player")

I love: Dreams Come True

2012-01-01T01:00:00.001-05:00

Four years ago

Old Photos

2011-12-31T15:50:00.001-05:00

I have so many old photos with Punchline. These are two that were at my fingertips today. They are from September 2008. Enjoy!

"Seventy" from "Delightfully Pleased"

2011-12-31T12:01:00.002-05:00

I've seen friends become successful and then be a friend no more

What a Wonderful World

2011-12-30T15:00:00.002-05:00

I like the song. I like the cover. I like the content. That probably won't surprise you. Although Larry would scold me for saying so in public. I've had plenty (a majority?) of clients who I don't think voted for Obama. We had a great time together, and their weddings were fun and fabulous!

Birthday Party Photo

2011-12-30T11:06:00.003-05:00

This is the only action shot from my birthday party. And I love it. Thanks Wendy!

I love: A B-Side

2011-12-29T12:00:00.001-05:00

Pretty Petty was always one of my favorite songs by Punchline. I think Steve put an early recording of it on a mix cd for me once, because I had it years before they released it on "Besides." Chris made this montage in 2005, which I love because you can see Asbury Park in it.

I love: a punk song fit for a wedding

2011-12-29T08:00:00.001-05:00

This video is not by the band, just a fan. But I adore this song. I used it at my wedding.

I'm going to be promoting Punchline all week, leading up to the release of their new album on iTunes. Get ready!

I love: a birthday song

2011-12-28T18:00:00.002-05:00

Punchline played my 30th birthday party last year. It was one of the best days ever. They played this song. And dedicated it to me. It was awesome. Here are a few of the photobooth photos:

I love: A Grand Gesture

2011-12-28T14:00:00.002-05:00

At the 18 second mark you will see Steve, lead singer of Punchline, my most favorite band in the world. You can see more clips from his Mobbed experience here. January 4th cannot get here soon enough.

Warning: A Takeover

2011-12-28T09:45:00.003-05:00

There is about to be a Punchline takeover in this space. I am so excited for their new ventures and network TV debut! It's about to be all Punchline all the time. The good news is they make awesome music, so you will love it.

I love: Repealing DADT

2011-12-21T16:43:00.003-05:00

This photo could make me weep with joy. Read the story here.

Photo by: Associated Press, Brian J. Clark

I Adore: Zinnia Films

2011-12-12T22:42:00.002-05:00

Check out my 10/8/11 Wedding video, courtesy of Zinnia Films!

Katie and Travis from Zinnia Films on Vimeo.

12 by 2012

2011-11-07T12:00:00.005-05:00

Updated 12/21/2011

My friend Kelly Lanza of Studio DIY and Breakfast in Bed encouraged me to write this post about 12 goals I want to accomplish by 2012.

1. Book 3 more weddings for 2012 Booked 2 - Just need ONE MORE!
2. Go to the gym 24 times I am failing brilliantly at this one!
3. Participate in an ornament swap and a card swap DONE
3 (a). Organize a cookie swap DONE
4. Visit with my cousin Katherine
5. Finish our bathroom remodel - piece of art and a new door
6. Submit the bathroom remodel photos to Design Sponge
7. Properly write about the Shower In A Box
8. Get new speakers for my car (ok this is turning into a to-do list now) DONE
9. Get some video on my website
10. Purge the closets, cabinets and drawers DONE
11. Take inventory of my "wedding stuff"
12. Work on my 2011 taxes (blech) DONE

What are your goals for the rest of 2011?

Bridal Market: Anne Barge 2012

2011-11-04T08:00:00.002-04:00

My 9/24/11 bride Kate wore an Anne Barge dress that I adored, so I was excited to see what Anne Barge was showing at Bridal Market. And I was not at all disappointed. These two new designs, Waverly and Garner, are smoking hot. Again, see my love for the geometric lines on Waverly. But also check out the awesome sequins on Garner - so interesting!

Awesome photos by Thomas Iannaccone; terrible photos by me.

Bridal Market: Claire Pettibone Fall 2012: Toile Francais

2011-11-03T08:00:00.002-04:00

I fell in love with this blue toile dress from Claire Pettibone at Bridal Market last month. It is not very "me" but it is so innovative and interesting, that I can't help but be drawn to it. I was also lucky enough to meet Claire at her booth at The Piers - such a kind person!

Nice photo by Thomas Iannaccone; ugly phone photos by me.

I love: Punk Rock Bride

2011-11-02T17:00:00.001-04:00

I love that Washington DC can boast that it is the home of Punk Rock Bride. I love Stephanie Ward and being able to chat with her at local functions. And I am really in love with the new line. In particular, the two dresses you see below, Meagan and Rachel. The simple silhouettes with the geometric embellishments are so my style.

Terrible phone photos by me, awesome pr photos from Punk Rock Bride.

Waiting on a Woman

2011-10-30T21:59:00.001-04:00

So this song had me in tears earlier this week... the first minute of this video is pretty terrible, so try to get past it. And I might get slammed for this, but I could also live without Andy Griffith :-)

I went to this party...

2011-10-26T16:09:00.004-04:00

Here we are!

10th Annual Martha Stewart Weddings Bridal Market Party in New York City. Photo by Readyluck. Copyright 2011.

Behind the Scenes: Martha Stewart Magazines "Prop House"

2011-10-24T16:38:00.007-04:00

I was recently in New York City and was lucky enough to attend the annual Martha Stewart Party held at the end of Bridal Market weekend. The first thing Nole (my travel pal and NYC tour guide extraordinaire) and I did when we arrived was take a tour of the offices. Here are the photos I snapped of the "prop house." First, a look at the linen selections. Next, all of their cake stands and plates. Third, the entrance to the prop area with assorted items, and finally a cart with items pulled for a March 2012 piece in the upcoming Living magazine.

Considering what an impact this magazine has on my industry, and how it can make or break a wedding professional, the offices didn't seem overwhelming - although very tidy and inspired. The TV studio was in a different building across town. We also got a peek at the photo shoot studios and the test kitchens - however I was too shy to snap a photo there, where Ron Ben-Israel was painting sugar flowers while we looked on with awe.

Just putting it out there...

2011-10-22T08:00:00.003-04:00

As hokey as it may sound, I believe that if you verbalize your desires and goals, they have a better chance of coming true. Example: In January I started telling anyone who would listen that my foster dog Prince would be adopted in 2011. And after 14 months of foster care, he was adopted in early February.

Side note - I began writing this list in May, and put it aside. It is now October, and time to start thinking about 2012. Here we go....

So here are some other things I've been thinking about...
I want to plan a lobster bake wedding or rehearsal dinner
I want to plan country wedding complete with boots and a band
I want to plan a rock n roll wedding (yes I love music - did you see my bio?)
I want to work at AVAM again (and again and again and again)
I want a client to hire Euphonism for their wedding
I want to plan an upscale picnic wedding with awesome boxed lunches
I want to help someone plan a kick ass marriage proposal
I want to plan a Pink Flamingo wedding
I want to plan a Rat Pack wedding
I want to learn from Jesi Haack
I want to work with Jennifer and Saundra and Ashley and Amber (for a week/weekend - I'm not moving!)

A Marriage Proposal

2011-10-21T08:00:00.001-04:00

I think I must have snapped this picture in June during my NYC trip to see Sasha Souza. Can you spy why I took a photo of graffiti?

Lobster Love

2011-10-20T13:23:00.006-04:00

I am currently obsessed with the Red Hook Lobster Truck serving lunch across the DC area on weekdays. Not only are the lobster rolls totally amazing, but you can also get an Arnold Palmer (half lemonade half tea), kettle chips and whoopie pies from Whoopsies. So far I have had 2 meals from the Truck, and I hope to have many more. I hear that in the winter they also feature clam chowder and hot cider - yumm!

So when I recently found the lobster costume at Wylie Wagg, I had to have it for Tammy's Halloween adventures. We have Bark For Life on 10/29, and then candy distribution at home on 10/31, of course.

I love an awesome wedding reading

2011-10-13T15:42:00.001-04:00

A Lovely Love Story by Edward Monkton

The fierce Dinosaur was trapped inside his cage of ice. Although it was cold he was happy in there. It was, after all, his cage.

Then along came the Lovely Other Dinosaur.
The Lovely Other Dinosaur melted the Dinosaur's cage with kind words and loving thoughts.
I like this Dinosaur thought the Lovely Other Dinosaur.
Although he is fierce he is also tender and he is funny.
He is also quite clever though I will not tell him this for now.

I like this Lovely Other Dinosaur, thought the Dinosaur. She is beautiful and she is different and she smells so nice.
She is also a free spirit which is a quality I much admire in a dinosaur.

But he can be so distant and so peculiar at times, thought the Lovely Other Dinosaur.
He is also overly fond of things.
Are all Dinosaurs so overly fond of things?

But her mind skips from here to there so quickly thought the Dinosaur. She is also uncommonly keen on shopping.
Are all Lovely Other Dinosaurs so uncommonly keen on shopping?

I will forgive his peculiarity and his concern for things, thought the Lovely Other Dinosaur. For they are part of what makes him a richly charactered individual.

I will forgive her skipping mind and her fondness for shopping, thought the Dinosaur. For she fills our life with beautiful thoughts and wonderful surprises. Besides, I am not unkeen on shopping either.

Now the Dinosaur and the Lovely Other Dinosaur are old.
Look at them.
Together they stand on the hill telling each other stories and feeling the warmth of the sun on their backs.

And that, my friends, is how it is with love.
Let us all be Dinosaurs and Lovely Other Dinosaurs together.
For the sun is warm.
And the world is a beautiful place

Meet Chloe 24951

2011-09-20T15:54:00.005-04:00

This is Chloe. I rescued her from the Orange County Animal Shelter on 9/10/11, along with her brother Jiggs. They are both 13 months old. They were turned into the shelter because their owners could not afford even the most basic of vet care, including any shots, spay or neuter.

As a result, we suspect Chloe is 5 weeks pregnant. This was likely her first time in heat, and she was likely impregnated by her own brother. She is only 8 pounds, so she will probably need a C-section in order to survive labor.

Please, please, please spay and neuter your pets.

All of Cher's Outfits in Clueless

2011-09-03T12:13:00.003-04:00

Just as I was telling a friend last night that I think I am blogging too many videos, I have to share this 60 second video that shows the 50 (yes, 50) outfits worn by Alicia Silverstone in Clueless (a 90 minute movie). This video is almost as brilliant as the movie.

I love a dachshund cabinet handle

2011-08-29T23:02:00.006-04:00

Larry and I have been working on renovating our only bathroom since January. Well, that is when the planning began. Demo and rebuilding began in late March (while we were in Hawaii - that was a dumb idea). Yes, it is now 9 months later, and yes we are still working on it. Left to do is buy a piece of art and order a new door along with chrome door hardware. While I love a lot of things about my new bathroom, my favorite has to be the drawer knobs that I found. Weiner dogs! From Habitatter! (terrible photos by me)

Please do something for the starving children

2011-08-17T22:51:00.001-04:00

I should apologize in advance...

2011-08-17T19:15:00.003-04:00

Thanks to all the chatter today about Abercrombie & Fitch and possibly the worst TV show of all time, The Wedding Bee reminded me of this awesomely horrible song... it takes me right back to Myrtle Beach in June, 2000.

I love a Mini-Warbler

2011-08-14T23:27:00.001-04:00

I saw Glee LIVE at the Verizon Center in June. And I saw the 3D movie this weekend. The movie reminded me of this video, which is just fantastic...

Awesome commercial

2011-08-13T08:43:00.000-04:00

I love this song and I LOVE this show...

I assembled and it was... decent...

2011-08-12T08:08:00.001-04:00

I made these Rice Krispie treats that I thought would be awesome. But I botched one thing, and there is an ingredient that I would pass on in the future. Those who ate the treats never complained though - but I am a perfectionist :-) Thanks to Elle's New England Kitchen for the recipe!

In error, I bought marshmallow topping (for sundaes) and not marshmallow fluff. The topping was too thin. It seeped through the rice krispie treats and didn't offer much in the tastiness arena. And I have decided that the graham crackers are unnecessary. They take away from the impact of the marshmallow and chocolate. Maybe next time I will add peanut butter.

I cooked... and it was good...

2011-08-11T08:38:00.000-04:00

Larry and I had a few people over this past weekend and I made a few appetizers. The mini twice-baked potatoes were a huge hit. Time consuming to make, and I wish I had microplaned the Parmesan cheese, and not bought it already shredded. Thanks to Laura's Best Recipes.

Do I dare... color my hair

2011-08-10T09:17:00.000-04:00

What do you think Larry would do if I came home with this color? I found it on Become Gorgeous via Pinterest.

I love... Carrie Fleck's Studio Savvy business card

2011-08-09T09:03:00.000-04:00

Over the past six months or so, I had come to realize that I needed to pump up my business cards. I have very few pieces of marketing collateral, so I felt that the ones that I had needed to pop more. But I did not want to do a total rebranding. So I wasn't sure where to begin. Then I found Carrie's business card floating around Pinterest. Not only did I find something that really spoke to me, but it was a card of a designer! So I sent her an email - where I was practically begging for her help. See, her company Studio Savvy, typically does much much larger projects than my itty bitty business card design. Thankfully, she agreed to take on my little project. And soon I hope to be able to share the final result with you!

I love... a Jack and Ginger dress

2011-08-08T08:48:00.000-04:00

I saw this dress in the Nordstrom catalog and I had to have it. Unfortunately, I was not the only one who felt this way. I left my shopping until the last minute, so I had to drive to Towson (75 minutes from my house) to get the dress in my size in time for a baby shower that I was attending the next day.

I knew I wanted to pair the dress with some strappy gold wedges. I had a hard time finding a pair that I liked. I finally bought these Jessica Simpson wedges from Zappos. I did not realize they were 5 inches tall. So while I do wear them, they cannot be tolerated for more than a few hours at a time.
I also wear this with a long Juicy Couture gold necklace, but I can't find a photo if it, so you'll just have to use your imagination.

I love: a Kate Spade dress

2011-08-07T20:36:00.002-04:00

I never thought I would be someone who owned a Kate Spade dress, much less raving about it. But after following my friend Kurstin Roe into a Kate Spade store (he was buying a swank purse for his wife's birthday - lucky lady!), I saw this dress and immediately fell in love with it. I wear it all the time. Sometimes I swap out the navy ribbon belt for a brown leather belt. You like it? It's on sale now!

I love: The Help

2011-08-05T08:31:00.001-04:00

I just finished reading this book. OK, I listened to it on my iPod. But nevertheless. It is a wonderful story. I laughed. I cried. And I cannot wait for the movie to come out! Check out my friend Kevin McCarthy as he interviews the cast, including Emma Stone, Viola Davis, Sissy Spacek, Mary J Blige, Octavia Jackson, Jessica Chastain and Allison Janney.

trampoline photos, part 2

2011-08-04T07:55:00.001-04:00

As promised, here are the second batch of trampoline photos from Kurstin Roe. My dress isn't the most flattering of shapes to be jumping up and down!

I love: Trampoline Photos

2011-08-03T19:48:00.005-04:00

My buddy Kurstin Roe had the brilliant idea to bring a giant trampoline to a wedding and take wedding party portraits. I am going to share some now! I'll share more later too!

I am a dork...

2011-07-20T19:22:00.001-04:00

My life can end now... Harry Potter on The Daily Show

The Daily Show - Daniel Radcliffe
Get More: Daily Show Full Episodes,Political Humor & Satire Blog,The Daily Show on Facebook

I love: awesome flowers

2011-07-19T08:00:00.004-04:00

I had so much fun planning the floral decor for this 24 person seating table at Oatlands Plantation. Barbara from Growing Wild made my vision of low arrangements of green and white flowers come alive!

And Kurstin Roe took the wonderful photos!

I love: a wedding that feels like a dinner party

2011-07-18T08:00:00.001-04:00

This photo is from a wedding that had 55 guests, an exquisite menu and carefully selected beverage pairings. It really felt like an over-sized dinner party (with an awesome swing band). The guests were totally thrilled to be at Strathmore Mansion that evening.

Thanks to Joy Lyn Photography for this picture!

In all my glory!

2011-07-15T08:00:00.001-04:00

My glamorous job as a wedding planner includes getting to bustle a lot of wedding gowns. And so far I've been able to figure them all out!

Thanks to Andrea from The Observatory for documenting this!

I love: an amazing favor

2011-07-14T08:00:00.001-04:00

I was hired by this couple almost solely to handle their wedding favors. The father of the bride painted over one hundred 8 x 10 canvases, a series of nine locations that were memorable to the bride and groom. Each was assigned to a particular guest or family, and I was charged with putting them in gift bags and getting them to the appropriate guests. I've never seen a more awesome wedding favor. And it was perfectly displayed in the studio of Halcyon House for the majority of the reception.

Thank you to The Observatory for the photographs.

I love: This photo from The Observatory

2011-07-13T08:00:00.003-04:00

I was looking though the DVD that Andrea from The Observatory sent to me from this wedding and I stumbled upon this gem. I don't know how I missed it before. Isn't it stunning?

I love: a choreographed dance

2011-07-12T08:00:00.001-04:00

This couple blew their guests away when, after their first dance, they did the Thriller dance, a la the Michael Jackson video. Everyone went wild. It was so awesome! Thanks to Andrea from The Observatory for the photograph!

I love: a white, yellow and green bouquet

2011-07-11T08:00:00.002-04:00

How fabulous is this bouquet from Growing Wild Floral Design? I am absolutely in love with it. Roses, peonies, orchids and dahlias for this gorgeous July bride. Thanks to Andrew Reilly for the photos!

I love: a lounge at a wedding

2011-07-08T08:00:00.001-04:00

I really love having a lounge area at a wedding. Guests love an area to relax and be away from the dance floor from time to time. Thanks to Kurstin Roe for this photo of a lounge I did at Oatlands Plantation!

I love: a calla lilly bouquet

2011-07-07T08:00:00.001-04:00

I am not usually a fan of bouquets made with regular calla lilies. But this bride's bouquet, made by Rance Goff, was stunning. The addition of the greenery and Dusty Miller really brought this bouquet to life. Thanks to Ralph Alswang for the photos, and The Hay-Adams for the great view!

I love: a hot pink bouquet

2011-07-06T08:00:00.001-04:00

I positively adore this bridesmaid bouquet from Growing Wild Floral Design. It is comprised of roses, calla lillies and coxcomb, all hot pink. A little greenery on the edge and it's perfection. Thanks to Kurstin Roe for the photo!

RIP Clarence Clemons

2011-06-19T13:12:00.000-04:00

I love Bruce Springsteen, I love the E Street Band, I love New Jersey and I love music

I love: Word Bubbles

2011-05-27T08:00:00.001-04:00

The ceiling of the American Visionary Arts Museum lends itself to decorative ceiling installations. Nikia and Andre didn't want to do something that had been done before (although generally I contend that there are no new ideas, at all). I came up with the idea of word bubbles featuring fun quotes from the movie. We hung 6 over the guest tables and 2 over the sweetheart table. And I made them all by hand. I hope you enjoy them!

Photos by the wonderful A Britton Photography

I love: A guestbook contract

2011-05-26T08:00:00.000-04:00

I was inspired by the wall-sized contract that Willy Wonka has the children sign when they enter the factory. Luckily Nikia and Andre were into my "guest book contract" idea too. It was designed and printed by the wonderful Two Brunettes.

The text reads:
Little surprises around every corner, but nothing dangerous, don't be alarmed! Standard formal contract, you wouldn’t begrudge us a bit of protection, a smidge? Whereas the management cannot be help responsible for any happy accidents, joyous incidents, loss of inhibition, or frowns or scowls and whereas for damage caused by hugs, kisses, handshakes, head pats, back rubs or affection of any sort, kind or condition, consequently the undersigned take responsibility to smile, laugh, high five, fist bump, sing, dance, eat, drink and thoroughly enjoy themselves at the wedding of Nikia and Andre.

Photos by the super-talented A Britton Photography

I love: Half of a Wedding Cake

2011-05-25T08:00:00.001-04:00

You may remember in Willy Wonka's office, towards the end of the movie, everything in it is cut in half.

When we told Sweet Bakery (located in Baltimore, Maryland) that we wanted half of a wedding cake, with the insides exposed, I think they initially thought we were cuckoo-bananas. But they came around very quickly and were as excited about the concept as we were. The rock candy was a later addition to the design, and I think it turned out perfectly. Don't miss the mossy bunny that I picked up in the AVAM gift shop.

Photos from A Britton Photography

Tuesday Shoesday: Red Hot!

2011-05-24T08:00:00.003-04:00

I confess. I don't know who makes the shoes. Valentino maybe? I know, I am a terrible Tuesday Shoesday blogger. But aren't they hot?! And they look awesome with the bridemaids' red parrot tulip bouquet.

Photos from A Britton Photography

For more Tuesday Shoesday goodness, head over to Landlocked Bride, Life in the Superburbs, Simply and Forever, Meant to be Sent, Swatchbook Weddings, Jan Schill, The Demoiselle, Postcards and Pretties, A Realistic Wedding, and Magnolia Rouge.

Or search #tuesdayshoesday on Twitter!

I love: Willy Wonka Wedding invitations

2011-05-23T08:00:00.002-04:00

I was so thrilled when Nikia and Andre decided to hire Two Brunettes to design their Willy Wonka wedding invitations. She embraced the concept and all our quirky requests without batting an eye.

And I cannot thank Michele H. Fritz from Meant To Be Calligraphy for doing up the envelopes for us!

Photos from A Britton Photography

I love: my paper chandelier

2011-05-22T08:00:00.001-04:00

I made this for a recent wedding at the American Visionary Arts Museum in Baltimore. It hung over the candy buffet at my "Willy Wonka" inspired wedding. I am totally in love with it. I am holding onto it, even though it got smushed quite a bit on the car ride home. It just makes me happy.

In fact, so many handmade things from that wedding made me happy, I am going to blog a few of them.

Thank you to A Britton Photography for the loverly photo!

Obsessed: Pinterest

2011-05-21T08:00:00.000-04:00

I am completely obsessed with Pinterest. People (who are not on it already) ask me what it is and the best I can describe it is a website with a tool that will allow you to take any image on the internet (or your hard drive I think) and attach it to an online inspiration board. You can have as many pins as you want, and as many boards as you want. You can also follow people you know to see what they are pinning. And you can choose to see what everyone on Pinterest worldwide is pinning. I love it. I could really spend all day on it. Check out my Pinterest. The website is still in beta, so if you want an invitation to join, let me know and I will send one right over.

Melanie Blodgett is my FAVE

2011-05-20T18:11:00.003-04:00

I have discovered a blogger who I now have a huge girl crush on. So much so that I read her blog back 3 years the first night that I discovered it. You are My Fave should be immediately added to your RSS feed or Google reader or Bookmarks or whatever you you use. You can also follow her on Twitter.

Melanie Blodgett you are my FAVE!

Punchline's new video for Coyotes in B Major

2011-03-18T21:06:00.006-04:00

My buddies in Punchline have put out a new video. It looks really cold (which they tweeted about while filming it) and I'm sad that Steve didn't get his first on screen kiss :) The set where they play makes me like the song even more than I did before the video. I hope you enjoy it!

Funnier than the eTrade baby!

2011-03-18T18:17:00.001-04:00

Obsessed: Moment Junkie Blog

2011-03-09T09:00:00.000-05:00

This is a fantastic blog. It is all about sharing the moments of authentic emotion on the wedding day - captured by the photographer. It is unique because it is not about the centerpieces, the linen color, the way you decided to decorate the chair, the shoes, the invitations... its just about the emotion.

Obsessed: Dreams of Flying by Jan Von Holleben

2011-03-07T09:00:00.000-05:00

Here is another photographer, Jan Von Holleben, who has an awesome, ongoing collection of super creative photos called Dreams of Flying. These feature children positioned to appear to be doing something that they are not. I love it. So simple and so divine. You should check out the collection!