Friday, March 12, 2010
When when when are we going to feature a Hutton Hotel wedding? That's been my question forever! Finally, the day has arrived. Thanks to Kimberly, Joseph, their planner Celebrations by Design and their photographer, Shanna Mahoney, I can check out this swank wedding venue vicariously. Yes, I've dined their but seeing a wedding there is quite different. Plus, they included the Parthenon in their wedding day pictures and I so love the Parthenon.
Nashville provides such a beautiful backdrop for weddings, whether it's off in the country on a rustic farm or plantation or at a chic, downtown city setting.
Thanks to Celebrations by Design (planner) and Shanna Mahoney Photography, we get a peek into the special day shared by our bride and groom, Kimberly and Joseph. They really looked like they had a great time from the pictures at Centennial Park to the symbolic ceremony and fun filled reception.
Congratulations Kimberly and Joseph, and thank you for sharing your day with us and all our readers!
.jpg)
Bride - Kimberly D. Letcher
Groom - Joseph I. Britt (Irvin)
My wedding details - October 10, 2009, 1:00
Ceremony and Reception - Hutton Hotel
.JPG)
My wedding style
Elegant but Simple and Fun
.jpg)
.JPG)
My colors and why I choose them
Chocolate Brown and Copper with hints of Salmon and Cream, I just really liked how they complimented each other
.JPG)
Wedding wow factor
It was not the usually wedding ceremony. It was Biblical based relating to marriage and love. The Preacher (Pastor Chris Jackson) made it very special and added a personal touch. Everyone raved about the food, photo booth, and grooms cake!
.JPG)
Favors
PhotoBooth pictures with our name and wedding date
.JPG)
Personalized touches
Props for the photobooth, the Dahlias were from a friend (Sam Mose @ S&M Farms), and cowboy boots as the grooms cake.
.JPG)
.JPG)
Gift for bridesmaids & groomsmen
The Bridemaids receivied bronze and gold earrings and bracelets. The Groomsman received tickets to a concert.
.jpg)
Most special moment for me
I have a few special moments: Receiving the necklace from husband to be, which was delivered by his mother (she played the major role in us meeting) that I wore that day. The ceremony in its entirety… including the sand ceremony. We gathered in a room after the ceremony and one of my bridesmaid (Candace Atkinson) gave a toast… it was very emotional. The first dance with my husband as well as my dance with my father.
.jpg)
.jpg)
My wedding vendors:
Planner & table decor - Celebrations by Design
Cake - The Sweetest Day
Photographer - Shanna Mahoney Photography
Invitations - Invitations Etc. in Gallatin (Julie)
Wedding dress - The White Room
Bridesmaids dresses - Davids Bridal
Dahalias - S&M Farms (Sam Moses)
Floral design - Bouquet and altar pieces and some centerpieces - Village of Flowers
Photo booth - Ace Photography
Ceremony decorations - Events Plus
Flower girl dress - Memories Consignment
Makeup - Mac @ Green Hills
Hair - Al T Moore (the Loft)
My faves – highly recommend
The photo booth! The guests loved it! And the sand ceremony instead of the unity candle. What the sand represents is so special!
.JPG)
How I found my vendors
I found my vendors from websites like Ashley's Bride Guide, The Knot, Nashville Weddings, local wedding magazines, and referrals from my planner Toni Smith, friends and family.
My wedding rewind
What I would do differently if planning again?
Definitely planning my wedding in the city that I live in from day one. We orginally were having a destination wedding in another state and when we decided to bring it back to Nashville openings were hard to find, but it all worked out in the end!
Biggest waste of time or money?
Every aspect of my wedding was worth the time and money!
Best value for the service/product?
Celebrations by Design (Toni Smith, planner), Asking the florist if I could bring in the majority of my flowers
Neatest find
I rented the flower girl dress from Memories Consignment store in Hermitage, TN.
Anything else you want brides-to-be to know about your wedding, vendors, tips, etc?
Just to enjoy the process and don't stress about things, know it will all work out in the end!! ;-)
share
Posted by Ashley |
Filed under:
0 comments »
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
I absolutely LOVE the red and blue color combo for just about anything - from home decor and fashion to weddings. The funny thing is - I painted my home office red and turquoise in 2006 and didnt even think about the palette for weddings...until I started seeing fabulous inspiration boards like the one by Opulent Couturier below. I have yet to tire of these two colors combined and hope to see many more weddings in these super popular colors.
The Background:
Latrice of Opulent Couturier is back to inspire us once again and to demonstrate how event styling for your wedding day can work.. Tablescapes are a great way to design your dream wedding reception, incorporating elements that you love.
The Inspiration:
Image Credit: Row 1: Top Left: thefurniture.com, 2nd from left: highheelsblog.com, 3rd from left left: thetwistedsifter.wordpress.com Row 2: Left upper: gallery.weddingbee.com, Left lower: rosannainc.com Center Image: maisonluxe.net Right Upper: etsy.com/shop/Allofyou Left lower: blog.bellasignature.com Row 3: Left: etsy.com/shop/RachelJasperDesign 2nd from left: etsy.com/shop/toybreaker, 3rd from left: etsy.com/shop/weddingsandsuch Right: athome.kimvallee.com
The Wedding Tablescape:
How did these pictures collectively inspire the wedding tablescape you created?
This tablescape, was very fun concept! Red & turquoise is always a fun color palette to style around. Several of the elements challenged me the think outside of the box in order to show vintage inspiration.
Which elements were most important?
Absolutely the vintage Coca-Cola bottles! All of them were from a personal family collection that I always thought would be pretty cool to incorporate into a tablescape design. The Coke filled individuals bottles were extra special because they were bottled in my birth year, right here in Nashville!!
The "Love Garland" (www.etsy.com/shop/bekahjennings) added a personal flair to the table. I encourage clients to incorporate as much of their personality into their wedding style as possible.
What type of bride did you have in mind for this tablescape?
This tablescape appeals to a whimsical/fanciful bride that is not afraid to think outside the box & do something a little different with the tablescape style. When incorporating the vintage Coke bottles, this would also work with a wide range of other vintage beverage bottles as well as vintage milk glass vases.
What do you love most about the elements of this design?
I love the simplicity of the tablescape, yet it really pops with the red & turquoise color palette. The white floral stems from Hillary of Brocade Designs & the square menus from LePenn Designs really made the table come to life!!
What would you add if you were to do again?
I would add the blue tinted water goblets for another added pop of color.
Whats the most lavish aspect of the tablescape / whats DIYable?
The most lavish aspect of the table would have to be the linen & floral stems. The red pintuck linen were from Connie Duglin Linen. DIYable: I would say locating the vintage beverage bottles. When I work with a bride that wants to incorporate vintage style elements, I encourage them to shop local thrift shops, seek out family members & also Ebay & Craigslist are great resources.
Photography Credit: Donald Yeager Photography
share
Posted by Ashley |
Filed under: Details, Design & Florals, Inspiration & Trends0 comments »
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
b. Hughes Bridal has launched a new blog that is perfect for the bride looking for a luxury gown for less. Perhaps there's a fabulous gown that you've been eyeing but it just wasnt in the budget OR maybe you love a particular designer and would die for any stunning gown from their collection.
Whatever the case - check this blog regularly or visit the b. Hughes bridal salon for a larger inventory of sample gowns now available for sale!
According to b. Hughes, this blog is "dedicated to the gowns that we have put on sample sale. We have other gowns available from these designers that are not listed on this site. Please contact us via email: bhughesbridalformal@gmail.com for inquiries or questions. All gowns are sampled in size 10 unless otherwise stated."
Here's a sampling...
Badgley Mischka Ginger Gown
Strapless fitted and flared gown of rouched pearl silk satin chiffon horizontally draped with beaded midriff accent and full skirt
I want this Badgley Mischka Ginger Gown!!! Simple sexy elegance.
Badgley Mischka Audrey Gown
Narrow A-line princess gown of pearl Italian silk satin, with scoop neck, cap sleeves, empire bodice of net covered in three dimensional organza flowers with skirt of silk satin and detachable chiffon train bordered in three dimensional flowers.
I really like the back of this gown, very feminine, romantic and dainty.
Good luck finding your dream gown for less! Visit the store for more great sample sale gowns. Tell Allison I sent you - she'll take great care of you.
share
Posted by Ashley |
Filed under: Attire & Accessories, Luxury Wed Finds0 comments »
Thursday, February 25, 2010
There are bridal events galore this week and I want to make sure you're in the know about each one so you can attend the ones best suited for your wedding planning needs. IF you can make it to all - that would be great! But, since that's nearly impossible - I'm going to give you the run down on each event so you're informed...you know how I do.
Take advantage of the bridal events now!
Please know that this is peak wedding planning season. What does that mean? If you've followed my blog or event glanced at my event calendar, you will see many bridal events in Nashville - from Jan until March. Don't get spoiled. Take advantage of them now because once April arrives...you will hear crickets. There will be very few open houses, showcases, bridal shows, etc. So, this is the optimal time to attend events, meet wedding vendors, touch, taste and talk!
Quick run down of this week's bridal events:
1) Thursday, Feb 25 - Saturday, Feb 27 - The Reem Acra and Kleinfeld Dual Trunk Show at b. Hughes Bridal
What it is: A trunk show is when a bridal gown designer visits takes their gowns on the road, allowing brides to view the hottest, most exclusive gowns from their collection. This week, b. Hughes Bridal is hosting two amazing designers - the Klenfield Kollection reps (yes - from the show Say Yes to the Dress! and Reem Acra herself! It's rare that two designers team to host a trunk show but with b. Hughes is just the salon to make it happen. Plus, you get to shop for the perfect gown in the presence of the designers and save 10% off your purchase.
Who it's for: Brides from all over the state will be checking out this bridal event. If you're looking for the perfect dress, this is a great opportunity to try on a few to determine your style. Bridal stylists will be on hand to serve as your dress matchmaker!
What to expect: An emotionally charged event with women finding their dream gown - fun and joy!
Next steps: To see these collections, please call 615-297-7800 for an appt asap as they are filling up quickly. Why do you need an appointment? Because bridal stylists like to pay you personal attention, help you find the right gown and ensure theres a fitting room with your name on it. Find your dress during the week and come out and celebrate with us on Saturday (see event #3).
2) Saturday, Feb 27 - Open House at Williamson County Weddings and Events
What it is: Williamson County Weddings and Events will debut of their 2010 Wedding Invitation Collection.
Who it's for: Brides seeking wedding invitations - from classic to modern
What to expect: A fun, informative event with stylish invitations to peruse. I always leave wanting an event where invites are needed because I always fall in love with at least one hot invitation. Since it's at CJ's Off the Square, you can also check out their garden space for your wedding as well as enjoy other great wedding related resources
Next steps: RSVP at 615-465-8099 or online to ensure your spot, to view their 2010 invitation collection and to get an exclusive peek at their event pavilion before it officially opens in April!
Pics from their last Open House at CJ's Off the Square
The Bake Shoppe provided tasty treats for the last Open House - that's enough of a reason to go!
3) Saturday, Feb 27 - Brides' Night Out at Country Music Hall of Fame
What it is: Signature Events has teamed with b. Hughes Bridal + The Country Music Hall of Fame to create a VIP experience. From lavish tablescapes to a virtual fashion show, this will be an interactive and informative event. In fact, there will be a q&a with Signature Events on wedding planning - from trends to etiquette, Dulce Desserts on dessert buffets, how to hire a cake specialist, Reem Acra and the Kleinfeld reps on bridal gowns and much more. Plus, we'll be able to sample food / champagne from The Country Music Hall of Fame.
Who it's for: Nashville brides who want an experience like none other. Think one on one help, inspiration and access to the wedding pros.
What to expect: This bridal event will be unique to Nashville. It's like a bridal show but much more intimate, helpful and tailored to the luxury bride. Signature Events is producing the event so I expect nothing less than a full service experience. Every sense will be stimulated - from tasty sweets to yummy bridal eye candy. You'll also get to see a few gowns from the trunk show (see event #1). You wont be able to try on gowns at this event. This event is a social celebration, a showcase of wedding ideas and info. You will see a few lucky gowns at the event, paired with ideas but if you want to find your dress/try on gowns, be sure to do so during the salon's trunk show.
Next steps: RSVP as space is very limited. Visit Brides' Night Out for more info and to RSVP.
4) Sunday, Feb 28 - nFocus and Her Nashville Bridal Brunch at Noah Liff Center
What it is: A bridal show produced by our favorite Nashville magazine for women, Her Nashville! Plus, it's at Noah Liff, which you have to check out if you're looking for a formal space for your wedding.
Who it's for: All Nashville brides
What to expect: Lots of great wedding vendors to hire for your wedding day. Specifically, it's a champagne social featuring some of Nashville's exclusive wedding vendors, enjoy hors d'ouevres and a fashion show.
Next steps: Check out my guide to bridal shows so you're prepared. Purchase your ticket online and pay on $10 with my discount code - scbridal50. Arrive on time so you dont miss the fashion show or any aspect of the brunch. Grab one of my cute tote bags at registration!
Noah Liff Opera Center
That's my wrap up of all of the week's happenings. Each event will have great wedding vendors and more - including cake and catering samples for your big day. Let calorie counting resume on Monday! Hope to see you out and about this weekend.
Photo sources - Kristyn Hogan, Shannon Jenkins Photography, Williamson County Weddings & Events
share
Posted by Ashley |
Filed under: Bridal Shows & Events, Luxury Wed Finds1 comment »
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
A few weeks ago, I received a call from Kathy of FrontPorch Farms. She told me all about her farm and directed me to their website. That's when I fell in love with the charming, southern wedding venue!
Kathy told me on the phone that not only is the venue available to Nashville brides for their ceremony and reception but because the home can be rented in its entirety, it makes a good option for overnight guests.
There are many perks of this venue so you should check out my interview with Kathy below and give her a call to discuss your wedding or event!
Believe me - this will be a hot spot. It's affordable and has lots to offer if you're looking for true southern charm.
FrontPorch Farms
Contact: Kathy Best
Telephone: 615-394-1838
Email: kathy@frontporchfarmstn.com
Drive: 40 minutes from downtown Nashville
Established in 2009, Front Porch Farms is one of Nashville’s Best new wedding and reception venues built to reflect the era and unforgettable charm of the Old South. As a labor of love between a hopeless romantic from Georgia and one of Nashville’s modern day heroes with old fashioned values, the three story antebellum-style house with multiple covered porches overlooks magnificent views of the countryside. The 32-acres of rolling green pasture also includes a guesthouse, pool, pond, gazebos, rustic barn and rolling green pastures while located only minutes from the city. Overnight accommodations are available so guests can fully experience the romance of the country while enjoying modern day luxuries.
FrontPorch Farms Motto: A healthy marriage takes hard work and dedication but there is one day that shouldn’t be hard and that’s the very first day of your lifetime together. We created FrontPorch Farms as our romantic escape and now we share it with others to find their own magic & memories to last that lifetime.
FrontPorch Farms has on-site catering and a prefered list of vendors but you can also bring in a caterer if you so choose. They also have an on-site event coordinator and four staff members to help with your wedding event needs from the parties and showers to the ceremony and reception. The main room fits up to 75 guests for an intimate ceremony, and the space can accomodate up to 250 people. We had a few more questions for them, here's what they wanted to share -
The pool at Front Porch Farms
What else should brides know about your venue?
Brides should feel confident in knowing that they are getting our undivided attention and that we are not going to rush them in and out to make room for the next couple. We enjoy opening our home and property up to couples who are in love and want to share their joy with others. Daisy, my 84 year old grandmother married my grandfather Jimmy when she was 18. For 54 years until he passed away, they were by each other’s side – even if they were mad, sad or off on some crazy adventure. He carried her purse in stores because she always left it and no matter what scheme one of them cooked up, the other would follow along. FrontPorch Farms was the beginning of a love like that between my husband and I. We want to be the beginning of other loves like that. Let’s grow more “Daisies” together!
What makes your venue so unique? What do you pride yourself on?
I have been in the music industry for numerous years and know how events should run smoothly and efficiently and I am experienced in handling just about any crisis thrown at me. My husband is a third generation fire fighter who can do the same. If it’s something we don’t know how to do, you can bet we know someone who does. I applaud originality and creativity and welcome couples who have a vision that isn’t the same ol’ same ol’.
What special packages do you offer?
Our basic package includes a free 40x100 tent, tables, and chairs in our bookings. We can include linens and all other wedding and reception needs if requested.
share
Posted by Ashley |
Filed under: Vendors & Venues0 comments »
