Archives for October 2011

Vera Wang’s Fall 2012 Bridal Collection

October 24, 2011

Wedding gown designer and industry extraordinaire, Vera Wang, recently showcased her Fall 2012 Bridal Collection at New York Bridal Fashion Week. She never ceases to amaze me with hot new looks! This new collection definitely had heads turning and people tweeting!

On October 16th, Vera tweeted, “Vera’s inspiration: Witchcraft! Light, airy, concoctions of froth… mysterious and sexy, frivolous and fun…”

Here comes the bride, all dressed in nude and black! Check out this gothic collection showcasing organza, silk, lace, tulle, and lots of chiffon!

Will there be a new trend in the bridal fashion world? We shall see!!

What are your thoughts on Vera’s new collection? Would you rock black on your wedding day? Please share your thoughts in the comment section below. I can’t wait to hear what you have to say!!

XOXO

Happy Birthday Mommy!!

October 11, 2011

Today marks the day that a star was born – Ms. Arnenia Maria Odum!!

I’d like to wish the prettiest girl in the world, my mommy, a very Happy Birthday!

I can’t thank God enough for blessing me with such an amazing mother! She worked so hard to provide for my brothers and me while growing. I’ll never forget our family outings that took place almost every weekend. We had brunch, shopped, went to museums, Broadway plays…. you name it, we did it – as a family. My mommy taught me the importance of education, following my dreams, and building a solid relationship with God. She’s always been supportive of my career(s) and extracurricular activities including sports, pageants, and the time I thought I wanted to pursue my dream of being a singer. She’d listen to me for hours as I’d attempt to hit notes that were NOT in my range. Lol! Her exceptional planning skills, eye for style and design, and outgoing personality has helped mold me into the woman and event planner that I am today.

I look forward to creating a strong foundation for my family, just as my mommy did for me!

My 1st Birthday

Pretty in Pink

A Black & White Affair

Miss Jabberwork

College Graduation

Christmas 2010

Happy Birthday Pretty Girl!!

XOXO

I’ve planned my entire wedding. Why should I hire a coordinator now?

October 5, 2011

If you’ve already checked off that last box on your wedding planning to-do list that you printed off The Knot, kudos to you!! I’m sure you’re anticipating the arrival of your BIG day!

You ask, “Why should I hire a wedding coordinator now?” You’ve spent the last year planning all the details for one of the most important days of your life. Why not hire someone to review all of those contracts and orchestrate the final product?

Clipart Courtesy of Google

Many wedding planners, including me, offer “Month-Of” coordination. Each company has its own special name for this package and will begin working with you 4-6 weeks prior to your wedding date. This package usually consists of, but not limited to, the following:

PreWedding Day –

* Initial walk-through of selected ceremony and reception site

* Vendor referrals for those not yet secured

* Review of vendor contracts

* Detailed itinerary for vendors, service providers, and wedding party

* Rehearsal direction and instruction

Actual Wedding Day –

* Receiving deliveries and greeting vendors

* Lining up and cuing wedding party for processional

* Making sure the marriage license is signed by you and the officiant

* Coordinating with music entertainment for grand entrance, cake cutting, etc

* Coordinating with photographer to make sure specific pics are taking

* Assuring that gifts, cake toppers, and personal items are taken to designated location

* And the list goes on…

Lea & Brian

Photo Courtesy of Tim Howley

Your wedding day should be a time for you, your family, and friends to enjoy this memorious occasion. Your mom, sister, and bridesmaids should be there to assist and support you – not decorate, run around, and sweat! I’d hate to hear that your mom missed you putting on your gorgeous gown because she was setting up centerpieces or talking to the caterer.

I’m not saying this just because I’m a wedding planner, but I definitely believe that you should have a coordinator there to assist you in the final stages prior to your wedding day. I’m sure many other brides would agree! Regardless of what company you choose, it’ll definitely be worth the investment – or budget adjustment, if necessary!

Did you hire a wedding planner? Would you recommend that other brides hire a planner? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Happy Planning!!

XOXO

The 5 Love Languages

October 4, 2011

The 5 Love Languages is a must-read for couples! This book, written by Gary Chapman, takes readers on a journey through life in love. Knowing exactly what to do to make that special someone feel loved – whether you’re dating, engaged, or married, will help take your relationship to the next level!

Gary Chapman, a marriage counselor with over 30 years of experience, takes a detailed look at The 5 Love Languages:

* Words of Affirmation: Actions don’t always speak louder than words.

* Quality Time: Nothing says “I Love You” like full, undivided attention.

* Receiving Gifts: Not to be mistaken for being materialistic, the receiver of gifts often thrives on the effort behind the gift.

* Acts of Services: Doing something to relieve the burden of some responsibility speaks volumes.

* Physical Touch: A hug, kiss, pat on the back, or touch on the shoulder shows love, care and concern.

Take time with your significant other this week to learn your love languages. This will definitely be beneficial to your love life. (Jovan and I can attest to that!) In addition to reading the book, you can also check out The 5 Love Languages website to take a quick online assessment and use a variety of other resources.

I’d love to hear how this book has helped you and yours!

XOXO

Dallas Wedding Inspiration: Seaside Escape

October 3, 2011

For those of you who love the beach, this post is for you! I lived in Clearwater, Florida about 5 years ago. While there, I had an opportunity to view some of the most GORGEOUS beach weddings on the Clearwater and St. Pete beaches! Check out this ‘Seaside Escape’ wedding inspiration as I reminisce about my time spent at the beach…