It's Classic For a Reason

There are certain trends that will just never die (unlike bell bottoms and fringed vests - phew!) and there are certain eras that leave a lasting impression and will continually be reinvented...one of which being the 1950s. With a decade deeply influenced by fashionista icons, like Audrey Hepburn, Marilyn Monroe and Jackie Kennedy, we find ourselves a half-a-century later inspired by the the remarkable lines and silhouettes of their day.

Their looks were chic and sophisticated, and today we see so many bridal gowns and bridesmaids dresses taking core elements of 1950s style and giving it a modern twist.

Classic looks never get old.

Happy Planning!

SHE

In Lieu of Favors

A lot of time and thought goes into every single detail of a wedding, including the favor -- it is one of the ways you can express your appreciation to your guests. While it's always a great momento for your loved ones to take home, way too often, the favor is left behind at the end of the day. Because of this, many brides and their grooms have decided to forego the tangible gift and make a contribution on their behalf as well as those who joined them on their special day.

It's an incredible way to not only make an impact but also add a personal flare. If you and your significant other are huge dog lovers, you may decide to make a donation to your local humane society. Or if you or someone you love is a cancer survivor, you can always make a charitable contribution to the American Cancer Society. The list of charities who are continuously striving for monetary support is never-ending. Making a donation is lieu of favors is a thoughtful touch, a way to include philanthropy into your wedding and allows you to show an attitude for gratitude.

Happy Planning!

SHE

DIY: Proceed with Caution

Kudos to the crafty DIY bride -- you should be applauded for wanting to give your wedding day your own personal, special touch. DIY projects are taken on for a variety of reasons -- #1 reason: Save some $. While web surfing for wedding ideas you inevitably will come across a wedding detail -- whether it's a centerpiece, favor or super chic decor element that you just know you can re-create yourself without the lofty price tag....but beware those simple DIY projects, which often consist of many elements, products and detail can add up...BIG TIME!

Have I lost you -- if so, here is a concrete example of where a DIY would have been better off being a TDI

(They'll Do It):

The Pomander/Kissing Ball -- perfect to adorn the pew or chairs at your wedding ceremony - who doesn't love them and they often can get a bit costly. They seem to be a perfect candidate for a good ole DIY project. After purchasing the foam balls (which you can find fairly inexpensively) you have to completely cover them with flowers and even with the smallest foam balls you need a lot of flowers. Add that expense to the cost of glue, ribbon and the time investment necessary to create several depending on your ceremony seating arrangement and....unfortunately at the same price -- possibly less -- you could have paid to have someone else make these adorable arrangements.

By no means are we trying to deter the fabulous DIY bride from taking on projects of her own -- instead it's just to encourage you to pick and choose which projects you want to take on and which ones you will leave to a pro. Heavily consider the time it will take to make the piece(s), as well as all the products.

Happy Planning!

Team SHE

Any Valentine's Day Engagements?

Congratulations to all the couples who got engaged yesterday! We are looking forward to hearing from you to get started on the planning :-) In tribute to Valentine's Day engagements, check out pics from this uber cute Vintage Valentine wedding! From the play on dusty rose with a pop of teal and red, to the flirty flowers, numerous cylinder candles, and knitted hearts placed at each place setting that served as potpourri drawer freshner for guests to take home...these adorable and steal-able details should help you put your planning cap on!

Happy Planning!

SHE

Photo Credit: My Little Jedi

Destination I Do: Pros & Cons

Working from Paradise Island this week, has me thinking all things destination, beautiful weather, beach, and outdoors. What decor design could be more breathtaking than the crystal clear ocean and bright blue sky as your landscape? More importantly, these fabulous elements are FREE. I love the idea of combining refined elegance with a laid-back setting.

Having a hard time narrowing down a venue you love? Just think of all the gorgeous places there are to choose from....Jamaica, St. Lucia, Cabo San Lucas, Aruba, Punta Cana, Bahamas, Hawaii...the list goes on and on.

Destination weddings have been a growing trend for years now. Not sure if a wedding-away-from-home is right for you? Check out these pros and cons from About.com and weigh the option.

Pro: A Complete Package
Resorts and tourism organizations offer many complimentary services to make your destination wedding stress-free and simple. On-site planners will help you coordinate all the ceremony and reception essentials (marriage license, officiant, cake, food, dj, band, etc.).

Con: The Distance & Legal Red Tape
Juggling all the details from a distance can become stressful if you don't have assistance with these details. You might run into complications when trying to get a marriage license that's why you should have a planner or coordinator to help you over these speed bumps.

Pro: Avoid Stressful Family Situations
With a smaller invitation list, you can avoid feeling "forced" to invite the cousin you can't stand, or the in-law that everyone fights with. Keep it intimate. Just invite your very close friends and family.

Con: Some Family and Friends May Not Be There
Some guests will not attend due to the expense, or the difficulty getting time of off work. Olders guests may not feel comfortable or be able to travel far away from home.

Pro: Saves Money
You will save alot of money by not having 200 people at the reception. Spending a luxuirous weekend in a dramatic destination often costs less than a seated dinner at a nice location. It is proper etiquette to try and cover some guests expenses i.e. hotel stay, food & beverage. Guests pay for their own airfare and depending on the budget it is not unusual for them to cover their own hotel and airfare.

Con: No Money
Again, some of your friends and family may not be able to afford to pay for travel accommodations. Consider paying for some of your guests and look into group discounts through travel agents.

Pro: Combining the Wedding and Honeymoon
Killing two birds with one stone is another reason to have the trip of a lifetime in a beautiful location.

Con: Lots to do, Will You Really Get a Honeymoon?
Yes! You will get some romantic time alone but it is important that you schedule it and insist on it. Arrive a few days before everyone else and leave a few days later than everyone else.

Concerned that the planning will be too overwhelming or details too cookie-cutter? No worries, SHE travels and can help you every step of the way :-)

Happy Planning!
Shayla

Photo Credit: Flights Of Fancy

Design Essential: Lighting

SHE always works lighting into any wedding or special event budget. It is such a necessary design element because it can transform ANY space. You can be very elaborate with your lighting scheme with fancy LEDs and monograms or you can keep it basic and use par can uplights in key areas. Either way, work lighting into your budget. You will be so happy you did!

Happy Planning!

Shayla

Photo Credit: Google Images

A Baby Shower or Mini-Wedding?

Baby Showers are becoming more and more like mini-weddings. There's the cake, the decor, the stationery, the gifts, the food, and let's not forget the guest list! It all adds up quickly! My clients, Erin & Daniel, wanted to give their little prince Mason a royal welcome. Check out pics from their shower!

Happy Planning!

Shayla

Photo Credit: Evan Sanders