Stylish Tuesday - An Evening at the Walters

I had the pleasure of working with a busy couple. I helped them to plan and design their wedding.

Enjoy!




Photographs by Rachel Smith

Happy planning!

Happy it's HUMP day! Woohoo Wednesday!

Not that I'm looking forward to the weekend - with two more wonderful days to go - but things are really exciting around here. At least to me! :)

We have finally made the commitment to dust off our website. Boy, was there a lot of dust! The website will look much the same - but will allow us to give you fresh content much more often - which is a fabulous thing!

Also, we are going to move our blog directly onto our website! Bye Bye Blogger! Yes, it's going to be a big transition - and I'm not sure it's always going to be smooth. We will do the best that we can. Make sure you continue to visit us here. We will let you know when we are ready to make the transition.

The most fun change, is that we are rolling out our "video blog" series - which will be premiering this weekend! Yes, we are moving into the 21st century (slowly). Every weekend, we will be offering a DIY project, a tip, or an update on happenings in the industry - which will be done by MOI (and my hubby) on video. I'm totally excited!

Make sure to come back and take a look-see this weekend.

This week, we will be making a simply elegant unity candle - and more! Here is little preview!

Just as a side note, the invitation in this picture is absolutely fabulous. It's printed by hand in calligraphy. there is a hand painted peach rose on each invitation. Simply fabulous and simply elegant - which is what we are all about!

Happy planning!

Registry Glossary

When registering and choosing patters for tableware, a bride needs to know basic terminology of classification in each group - dinnerware, stemware and flatware.

Dinnerware Glossary

Earthenware - Made from less refined clays than china, it is a low fired which causes it to remain relatively soft and porous. Because of this, it is less durable than china or porcelain, but more cost effective due to it’s rapid manufacturing. Brightly colored dinnerware often fall into this category, such as Fiestaware. Don’t let it’s durable appearance fool you, Earthenware is much less durable than china and bone china.

Stoneware - Bridges the gap between earthenware and china. Like china, it is fired at high temperatures so that it is hard, smooth and non-porous. However, it is made of course, sandy clays s which burn to a dark color. It has an earthy appearance often decorated with bright decals. It does lack the delicacy of fine china.

China - A ceramic made of white clay and pulverized stone, fired at a high temperature. It is thin, translucent, resistant to chipping and/or breaking. It will ring when tapped.

Bone China - In addition to china clays, this ceramic product contains a percentage of bone ash, giving it a characteristic whiteness. Neither china or bone china will absorb grease or water when the glaze is chipped.

Porcelain - A fine, hard translucent material made from kaolin, quartz and feldspar and fired at high temperature. It is translucent and hard. Like china, porcelain will not absorb grease or water and is just as durable.

Stemware glossary

Glass - Essentially a mixture of sand, potash and lime or lead oxide which is then melted under high temperatures along with other ingredients to give it specific qualities of color, strength and refraction. Once melted, the molten glass is either molded or blown.

Crystal - To qualify as crystal, lead oxide is added to the potash and soda.

Lead Crystal - Glass that contains at least 24%-32% lead oxide. The lead imports brilliance and is responsible for the bell-like tone that is produced when the piece is struck.

Flatware glossary

Sterling - The queen of flatware, made of 925 parts of pure silver and 75 parts of an alloy. The advantages to sterling are the following;

-it is the most hygienic metal known to man

- It does not give off substances that affect the taste of food

- it is hard and very wear resistant

- Sterling is a precious metal and lasts almost forever

- It becomes heritage for future generations, therefore a wise investment

- If used frequently, it will not tarnish. It’s easy to wash .

Silverplate - Made from a base metal and electroplated with pure silver.

Stainless - Made from a steel allow with chromium so as to inhibit corrosion and rust. The best quality stainless is marked “18/8” the ratio of chromium and nickel used to make stainless. This is the most price “sensitive option” due to it’s easy manufacturing. It also comes in a variety of patterns.

I hope this helps you to make some registry decisions!

Happy planning!

20 or so musings about Lisa

I typically do not share things about myself to my clients. However, weddings are personal occasions, and my clients often share personal things about them and their family dynamics with me. Sometimes it’s nice knowing a bit more about the person you are working closely with, so now it’s my turn to share a bit more about me – and my thoughts. None of these musings are wedding related, but will give you more insight into my “quirky” personality.

I believe in…

1. Honesty and integrity are of utmost importance, but tact - even more so. I never understood why being hurtful teaches anyone a lesson.

2. I’m a Republican and Democrat – a conservative and a liberal. I see valid points on all sides, and also see misguided opinion on all sides. I just vote for the person that agrees with me most on the issues that most matter to me.

3. Make love, not war. However, if you are going to do it, it should be done with responsibility as to not hurt yourself, anyone else, or to get yourself in a situation you are not ready for.

4. Animals – they are so cute. As a child, I loved a Cockapoo for 15 years. Her name was Useless. Yeah, I know - it was my Dad’s decision. Pets keep you young. They are always there to love you – no matter what.

5. I met my first boyfriend at 20, and married him at 27.

6. Don’t ask me my age, it will probably be a lie.

7. I would say that my sense of humor is more “dry”. However, I cannot stand Woody Allen (too neurotic), and I LOVE Will Ferrell.

8. Love is irrational and is not to be understood – just felt.

9. I love the people in my life who make me laugh.

10. I love creating wedding planning and design proposals. It makes me excited to dream about all the possibilities.

11. I love my two children so much – it almost hurts. If I believed they were in danger, and I could save them by giving my life – I would in a second.

12. I idolized Dorothy Hamill – 70’s haircut and all!

13. Adequate back-up. Life is unpredictable.

14. My Dad died because he felt worthless in this world.

15. I played “first” clarinet in my elementary and Junior high school band.

16. I don’t understand why people kill to prove killing is wrong. However, I am a proponent of the Death Penalty. Not sure how to rationalize this in my mind - I’m conflicted. Good thing it’s not one of those issues I alluded to in item #2.

17. I’m a Capricorn.

18. I aspire to be the best. I am not afraid of it. However, I am afraid of lower standards - as being “good enough” is not “good enough” for me. Ultimately, it’s not the end result that matters – but the process.

19. Everything in life happens for a reason – we just might not understand it at the time.

20. I love the “Golden Girls” because they make me "laugh out loud". I have seen every episode 5 times – at least. It’s unfortunate that “they” don’t make TV like that anymore.

21. I spent 4 years in an advanced science and Math magnet in high school, 4 years at Smith College studying Biology and Chemistry, and 8.5 years in a PhD program in Molecular and Cellular Biology at Brown. It took me all that time to find my true calling. If that’s not interesting, I don’t know what is.

Vendor Spotlight - LaPrima Catering

LaPrima Catering is one of the premier full service catering companies in the region. There is no other that can do it better. What makes a catering company fantastic?

1. Client support – providing answers to questions throughout the entire process

2. Connections in the area – working with different rental companies so they are able to supply the client with what they need

3. Creativity – being able to understand the Client's vision

4. Personalized service - being able to meet budget requirements

5. integrity – honesty

6. Great food

7. Good attitude


LaPrima has all of these qualities and more. Working with Dina and the staff at LaPrima is a dream. No matter whether the wedding is a “year-out” or a “month out”, Dina is always there to address her clients’ needs – which, unfortunately, is a rarity. She makes her clients’ feel special, not because she has to, but because they are.

LaPrima is extremely versatile. With 10 locations in and around College Park, Baltimore, DC, Annapolis, Frederick, Alexandria, Fairfax, Herndon, Tysons, and Philadelphia, her clients are able to conduct tastings, and pick up items at a location that is convenient to them. In my case, there have been many instances where my clients needed to pick up a special dessert, and Dina has arranged for them to pick it up in a location that’s close to their house or work. What’s better about not having to worry about driving hours out of your way and taking time off of work – to taste their awesome Crème Brule?!

More importantly they have gone above and beyond for my clients – always! At the tastings, there is always an abundance of linen choices that would go well with the color or theme of the wedding. There are different decor ideas, from sample candle arrangements, different votive holders, different plate and glass options, chairs and cushion covers, and the like. They work with multiple rental companies, and therefore, are able to get almost anything. There is a level of comfort knowing that you are working with a company that is wholly dedicated to the success of your event.


Take a look at their website, and also at some of the amazing things that they have done this year - you will see the LaPrima difference.

When you contact LaPrima, make sure you let them know that you heard about them here.

Happy planning!

Receiving Line Etiquette

The receiving line is a lovely tradition. It gives the couple, their parents and wedding party the opportunity to great all guests. In a large wedding, this may be the only opportunity for guests to offer their congratulations to the newlyweds. The receiving line traditionally takes place at the reception, but can also take place at in the Church vestibule or on the stairs right outside - time permitting. A church is the ideal location to hold your receiving line, if all guests are not invited to the reception. Participants of the receiving line are as follows:



Who you include in your receiving line is up to you. I often suggest that you eliminate wedding party members (Bridesmaids and Maid/Matron of Honor) to save time – which may be a limiting factor. It’s totally acceptable not to include Fathers, and instead they can circulate amongst the crowed. If Mothers are remarried, Stepfathers can be included if you wish.

Just as some line tips.

1. As stated above, only include the essential members - so that your guests do not face a long and tedious wait.

2. Serve refreshments to your guests while they wait.

3. Conversation should be brief but pleasant.

4. The Bride (and Bridesmaids if included) should keep the bouquet in their left hands, or place it to the side while in the line.

5. Any accessories worn during the ceremony should be worn in the receiving line (hats, gloves, etc).

6. The Bride can kiss those guests which she knows well; otherwise a handshake is appropriate.

Some couples elect to eliminate the receiving line, instead, circulating with their guests throughout the reception. If you choose to eliminate the receiving line, you have the responsibility of greeting each and every guest at the reception.

As an alternative to the receiving line at the Church, the Bride and Groom can re-enter after the processional to greet guests as they exit the church - which eliminates awkwardness if the parents are divorced or do not wish to participate in a formal receiving line.

Regardless of your plans, it’s imperative that you make sure to introduce your new husband in the proper manner. There is a simple rule of thumb: When making an introduction, present the lower “ranking” person to the higher “ranking” person. Here is how to determine status:

1. An older person outranks a younger person
2. Someone senior or more important at work outranks someone less senior/less important at work
3. An out of town guest outranks a local guest of equal status
4. A person serving religious ministry outranks a lay person

So, when you are introducing your new hubby to your aunt (who is 20 years older), you would say “Auntie Charlie, may I present my husband, Bryant Nelson. Bryant, this is my Aunt, Miss Charlene Powell.

This indicates that your new husband would call your Aunt “Miss Powell”, until it is indicated that he can call her by a more informal name. It’s a good rule of thumb to use the formal name of a senior person.

Happy planning!

A Night of Enchantment

Washington DC in March is one of the most beautiful places. New life abound – the cherry blossoms blooming – a first hand view of Washington DC’s most stunning monuments. With the floor to ceiling atrium windows, I cannot imagine a more beautiful wedding reception than treating your guests to a front row view of Washington DC -while cruising around the Potomac. This is exactly what this couple treated their 150 guests to – a night of enchantment.

This wonderful couple, brought together by fate, came from two entirely different backgrounds – hers Korean – and his American, but both totally in love. They combined their love to treat their guests to a multicultural affair that both they and their guests will forever remember. Adorned in a beautiful designer gown and him in a tux, they renewed their vows in high fashion-while docked in Washington DC’s SE side, known for its great harbor and even better seafood. After the ceremony, the ship “set sail” to a cruise of magnificent proportions.

After an abundant cocktail hour of heavy Hors D’oeuvres and drink, guests were able to order of menus and feasted on a 3 course meal fit for kings/queens! While eating, the Bride and Groom partook in many traditional wedding rituals; such as, the First dance and parent dances. After dinner, the 5 piece band opened the floor to all guests!

The Bride and Groom cut their simple 3 tiered cake, and quickly went to change for the traditional Korean bowing ceremony. Guests were treated to an elegant Chocolate Foutain, with a variety of fresh fruit and sweets as an accompaniment to the delicous yellow wedding cake.

Dressed in traditional Hanbok, the Bride and Groom made their way from table to table and bowed, offering thanks and respect to all of their guests. After the bowing ceremony, the Bride and Groom cut the traditional Korean Rice Cake, which we distributed with traditional Korean desserts as guests exited the vessel.

The night seemed to end as soon as it started. The simple set up lead to a magnificent evening full of light, love, Washington DC sites, but more importantly a memorable occasion for all!

Photography by Marais Studios

The Bouquets of Elegant Event Planning and Design

This is going to be a beautiful entry. Check out all of our clients' gorgeous bouquets. I hope you are able to get some fabulous ideas! It looks like roses have been very popular over the years.

White and black was the flavor for the evening. A simple nosegay of white roses with just a hint of pink makes for a beautiful Virginia evening. Look at the flower in her hair!

Gentle pink tones was the color scheme, but the pure white nosegay sets off her elegant, but simple look.

For a tall sophisticated bride, this is a very classic choice. This Bride had a Burgundy theme for their wedding.

Brides' love hot pink. These casual Gerber Daisies really set off this more nice home wedding.

Simple white and greenery makes for a classic wedding.

Red, yellow and orange has been very popular this year for us! Here is a non-formed nosegay of red, yellow and orange. Bridesmaids carried button mums.

Hot pink roses with a collar of greens.

Stately blue hydrangea and ivory roses set off this very elegant wedding.

A yellow and blue colors scheme with jewels and swans. We put tiny jewels in this bouquet. If you had heirloom jewelry, that would be perfect in a bouquet like this.

This wedding was in Newport, RI. She wanted things colorful! This large nosegay was hot pink, orange and Green - roses abound. On her tables, we had different colored silk overlays. It was gorgeous!

This Bride loved pink, so we designed a simple rose nosegay of pink and ivory.

Her colors were celedon and blue. We used celedon orchids with hints of pink, and then used hot pink for her accent color. The Bridesmaids carried blue and celedon hydrangea.

Her colors were Ivory, cappuccino, and celedon. We used ivory with a hint of light green roses to make the bouquet pop.

Her colors were ivory and hunter. Since Ivory doesn't "pop" from a white dress, we used peach to bring it out.

Cutting Wedding Costs - A Comprehensive List

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, and the entrance into the season which is not known for "saving" - here is a list of suggestions on how to cut your wedding costs.

1. Cut the guest list - if possible. Sometimes it's not possible due to family situations etc. This is the number 1 way of cutting costs.

2. Freelance photographer – A great “freelance” photographer might fit the bill. Often, the wedding is looked through a fresh and creative lens. Expensive back-end costs are often reduced. Warning – if a professional album is your goal, this might not be a viable option for you. Tip - one might even reduce their cost, for a chance at getting a great wedding in their portfolio!

3. Trunk shows and sample sales are great!

4. Opting for a smaller "show" cake and offering sheet cakes in the back.

5. Cutting the alcohol out of your bar (they will survive one night, I promise). Nobody is saying that you have to offer, but if you offer it - you should pay for it.

6. Choosing a venue that has table, chairs, glassware, silver, etc. Covering the chairs is not as expensive as renting ones (if you find an economic rental solution. Don’t rent the covers through the venue).

7. Choosing a venue you are happy with, decor wise - choosing a venue that you do not like because it’s inexpensive, and then paying twice the rental fee in decor - is not a good plan.

8. Cutting out favors, or combining favors and place cards into one offering.

10. Make every aspect of your wedding matter. Follow this rule of thumb, “don’t just do it because you think you “need’ to do it. Do it because it has a significance to you, your fiancé, your families (collectively) and your guests”. Make the significance known to everyone.

9. Downsize your wedding party (or no wedding party at all).

10. Ceremony and reception in one place - no need to transport yourselves and/or your guests.

11. Renting instead of buying. Check prices. You will only use this stuff once, and renting will eliminate the need to sell afterwards.

12. Getting married during the “off” season. Many vendors would love to work early December, January and February - when things are typically quiet. They might even offer you a terrific deal if you give them your wedding!

13. Custom made dress as opposed to buying a gown at a bridal salon. I had a bride who loved a $3,500.00 dress. We got a dress made out of "real" silk satin, a cathedral veil which was lined in the same fabric, and a bolero jacket - all for $2,000.00. If that’s not cost savings, I don't know what is.

15. Create a realistic budget and prioritize. Be honest to yourself and your vendors about how much you can and/or want to spend on your big day.

16. Hire a planner who has a strong network of vendors that they always use. This will save you time and money.

I hope this list will offer you realistic ideas on not only helping you cut costs, but also on maintaining the spirit of your day!

Happy planning!

Sample Sale - Thanksgiving weekend!

If you haven't yet found your gown and are interested in purchasing a sample gown at a great price, than the following information is for you!

Bridals by Elena, a full service bridal salon featuring couture bridal, special occasion gowns and custom designs is offering select sample gowns at 30%-70% off MSRP the weekend after Thanksgiving. These bridal sample gown designers include Romona Kevenza, St. Pucchi, Demetrios, Maggie Sottero, Anjiloque, Watters, Winnie Couture, La Sposa, San Patrick, Impression, Jasmine and many more!

Give them a call to schedule an appointment to find the gown of your dreams 410-975-0076. Also, visit them online.

Good luck and have fun!

Home Wedding - More Pictures

It was truly a gorgeous day - picture perfect really! I would love to share more pictures with you.

The cocktail hour took place in an enormous field. Guest tables were placed on the field as well as by a private pond- giving them a quiet place to reflect and enjoy. A trio of chamber players provided a number of classical selections










































We used a mix of square and round tables and tall and short centerpieces. The colors were chocolate and celadon. After going to a whole sale florist, we learned that she love peonies, hydrangea, roses and viburnum. For the cocktail hour, light celadon linens were used. Chocolate satin with natural Chivaris draped the room.








































The large tent was placed in one of the fields. Poles draped in fabric and covered with lights provided the most elegant setting for a most terrific evening.





























Congratulations Adrienne and Brian






















Photography by Thomas Graves

3 Recent Weddings

Take a look at this short video of 3 recent weddings. These weddings represent our style.

2 weddings were in Baltimore and 1 in Kansas City.

Enjoy




Jennifer and I look forward to speaking to you about your upcoming wedding!

Credits
Music - Half Acre by Hem

Photography
A Walters Wedding - http://www.rachelsmithphoto.com
Kansas City - http://www.paulvphoto.com
A Home Wedding - http://www.thomasgraves.com

At Home with Pink and Green

I love planning intimate home weddings. I love planning all weddings – but home weddings are special. There is something very unique about getting married somewhere you have such a strong emotional attachment.

Initially, we decided to meet over dinner. I knew this wedding was for us, when the couple was sitting at a table next to us for 15 minutes, and we could all hysterically laugh. At that meeting, I learned that they wanted to marry at their good friend’s home in Southern Maryland. They met each other and fell in love while working as postal workers years ago. They were a very close knit couple, and they wanted to plan an extraordinary home wedding but they were on a tight budget. They had definite ideas on how they wanted it to be, but they looked to us and our connections in the area to make it happen.

The colors were pink and green. The beautiful pond on the property was a natural focal point for the early summer outdoor ceremony. An aisle heavily filled with pink and ivory rose petals lead to a decorated arch that stood right near the water’s edge. Our duck and geese friends provided the perfect touch to the most magical and intimate ceremony. The ceremony was highlighted by the bride performing sign to “I Can’t Help Falling in Love with You” to her groom.

While the guests enjoyed cocktails by the side of the house, and the Bride and Groom were taking pictures, we made sure every single detail was attended to under the tent. The place cards were placed in small pewter chairs, providing a unique touch . The tables draped in pink were topped off by florals in pink and green. Large pink hydrangea plants surrounded the tent. Playing cards doubled as table numbers. Everything was very colorful and festive, which is perfect for a summer wedding.
Even though it rained towards the end, it didn’t dampen this great evening. It was the feeling of love and friendship that overflowed during this wonderful event.

How are we different?

I realize that there are a lot of wedding and event planners out there. How are you to filter through, what seems to be an endless amount of choice?

I want to spend a few moments sharing with you how Elegant Event Planning and Design is different - and the different approach I take in planning/coordinating your wedding.

There is absolutely nothing cookie cutter about Elegant Event Planning and Design and our experienced Planners/Consultants. I believe that each of my clients is an individual with different requirements. I take pride in being able to customize our services to meet the needs and budget of each individual. In fact, I do not offer packages. I personally spend the time getting to know you so that the package we create for you will be perfect, the first time.

All of our clients are equally important, whether "day of" or "full event management". We take each wedding seriously and take great care to make sure everything is perfect. We encourage "day of" clients to contact us as soon as possible. We do not restrict the initial contact in any way - whether it's a month prior or a year prior to the wedding day. I always say - the better I know you and your wedding, the better I can advocate for you on your wedding day.

I (Lisa) work personally with each and every client. You will meet with me, and I will be the person working with you during the planning process and on the day of the wedding!

Most importantly, my assistants, planners and I go above and beyond for you and your family. We believe in going the extra mile to not only ensure a successful planning process and seamless wedding day - but that you and your family are happy and stress free.

A summer to remember on the beach

This year, I have been blessed with lots of firsts. This was my very first beach wedding – and it was fabulous! What a beautiful site on the Eastern Shore - light filled, airy, spacious and beautiful – the most perfect setting for a most perfect wedding!

This sophisticated Bride wore the most perfect gown for a beach wedding – it was a nice, light and simple - ivory in color. She finished off her look with a simple yet sophisticated cage veil.

Celebrating her Caribbean heritage she walked down the aisle to the sound of steel drums. She looked absolutely stunning as she exchanged vows overlooking the Chesapeake Bay. The ceremony was short but meaningful - the highlight being the Sand ceremony – which not only represented two souls being joined as one, but the coming together of two families.

While the newly married couple took pictures on the beach, their guests enjoyed passed hors d’oeuvres, and the sounds of steel drums, as they watched the sun reflect from the water’s edge. As their 150 guests moved from the cocktail hour which was draped in pink, to the light filled reception which was draped in crisp ivory, they were treated to a robust meal and live music. The festive evening moved quickly (as it always does) and before we knew it, it was time to say goodbye. As they did at each moment of their wedding day, the couple said their goodbyes in grand style – waving from a yacht which brought them to their wedding night hotel.

Photography by Kea Taylor - Imagine Photography