Wednesday, April 4, 2012
I will admit this is a tough post to write as I don’t want to come across as tooting our own horns so-to-speak but I like to believe that we must be doing some things right now that Simply Stunning Events has been in business for almost 5 years, planned and coordinated over 60 weddings to date, and we still love it!
We work with all sorts of couples, some here in Nashville, some from out-of-state, some still in school, and some well into their busy careers, but we have noticed some trends regarding what is most important to our couples, i.e. what their wedding priorities are. For some wedding planning companies the look and feel of the wedding is a huge factor for brides and grooms, they want to wow their guests with amazing visual elements and unique details. However while the look and design of the wedding is certainly important to our clients, most of them place the experience of their guests as the highest priority. They want to be sure their guests have delicious food, an open bar, a great band or DJ to keep the party hopping, and make it easy for them to attend the wedding with logistical elements such as guest shuttles and comfortable hotels. Going along with this, they want to be sure that everything on the day of the wedding runs smoothly, and that’s where we come in!
We work with our couples to recommend the best possible vendors for their style, personality, and budget, and then put together a very detailed timeline that takes into consideration the right flow for the evening and the guest’s experience.
Photo by Phindy Studios
There are many different wedding planners out there with different areas of expertise and different personalities. Find the one that fits you best and shares your priorities! If design and details are your passion, find a planner that specializes in and shares that passion. If logistics and organization are largely important to you, find a planner who is a whiz at event logistics, detailed timelines, and checklists. And if you’re interested in Simply Stunning, we’d love to hear from you!
Photo by Phindy Studios
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Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Our first wedding planning camp will take place on March 13 at the spectacular Noah Liff Opera Center. Along with a team of experts, we will help you and your fiancé uncover your relationship values and develop your wedding vision. We will then guide you through how to create your wedding budget, which will you save you stress but will also help you maximize your dollars.
Want to know what Nashville newlyweds have to say about their 2011 wedding planning experience? What would they do differently? How did they stay sane and focused on what really mattered? Ask them! Our newlywed panel will consist of four recent brides and two recent grooms who will share everything they learned while planning their wedding - from their mistakes to what kept them from going crazy.
You will hear not just from our newylweds, but you will also have a chance to get insider tips from local wedding professionals who have been handpicked based on their exemplary service to Nashville brides. Our expert panel will include: Rhonda of Rhonda Patton Designs, Jenna of JHenderson Studios, Nyk and Cali of Cali Ashton Photography, Sarah of Music City Events, Emily of Simply Yours Weddings, and Carlin of Mere Bulles (wedding venue).
Our expert team will will discuss the importance of knowing you so that you can hire wedding vendors based on your unique values and vision. We will also give you advice on how to approach difficult conversations with one another and your loved ones as you plan.
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Pros and recent brides (Natasha and Krista) answering questions.
Event Details + Registration
Brides and grooms without a venue will have an opportunity to tour the Opera Center. Attendees will receive a tote bag courtesy of StudioWed; refreshments by Chef's Market and sweet treats by Crumb de la Crumb.
It will be an informative and enjoyable evening. You will meet great couples (engaged and married) and a professional team of wedding experts.
If you have not yet gotten your complimentary ticket for our readers, be sure to get it today! Register at www.http://smartbridenashville.eventbrite.com.
Crumb de la Crumb will provide a sampling of yummy cake, hopefully their almond, which is my favorite!
Chef's Market will provide incredible and creative appetizers!
Special thanks to Sarah of Music City Events who stepped up to help manage our event again this year. Event photos are courtesy of JHenderson Studios.
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Posted by Ashley of Ashley's Bride Guide |
Filed under: Advice & Planning, Bridal Shows & Events
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Monday, March 5, 2012
The precious title for her business, Simply Yours Weddings, doesn’t even begin to cover the sweet spirit of Emily Humphries, a local Nashville wedding planner who discovered her heart for brides when she realized that oftentimes, their exhaustion hinders them from enjoying their wedding planning. This truth was especially captured when Emily began to sew her own wedding together. She set out to fill a need, granting brides with what she describes as the “gift of time to live your life and enjoy your engagement, and the gift of freedom for you and your family to enjoy your Big Day!”
Merely five minutes of speaking with Emily conveys her deeply-rooted love for what she does, promising beauty for any bride’s wedding day. I spoke with Emily specifically in regards to the ever so popular Do-It-Yourself aka “DIY Bride.” In light of blogs, Etsy, and Pinterest, DIY options are exploding! But does that mean that DIY brides don’t need a wedding planner? Emily offers some wise responses pertaining to this subject, which ultimately reminds the DIY bride just how valuable a planner can be.
Image courtesy of Zach Goodyear Photography
ABG: Do you have experience working with DIY brides?
Simply Yours: Yes, I do! The description of a total DIY bride is a bride who does everything herself, and while not all brides sell out to this description, most brides want to do something themselves, granting every bride a little dash of DIY. Sara Towne, who also writes for ABG, is a good example of a bride in the middle. Sara carefully selected a handful of projects to create, while still avoiding the stress of conquering every detail that goes into a wedding. The question isn’t, ‘Are you capable of doing this [DIY wedding]?’ You’re capable. You’re creative. You’re artistic. The question is, ‘Are you going to want to spend the week of your wedding doing this? Do you have time for everything?'
Image courtesy of Betsy Limbaugh Photography.
ABG: Why do you think brides are attracted to DIY weddings? Is it to save money? To add a personal touch, perhaps?
Simply Yours: The attraction is likely a combination of both. The DIY trend has been growing for several years but the main stream availability of DIY materials has really come about during these hard economic times. Therefore there is often an illusion that DIY is always the less expensive option which may or may not be true. When I was married 4 1/2 years ago, there was not a lot available for DIY projects or even ideas for projects. There was really one major wedding planning website and a lot of magazines. But now with a combination of social media, Etsy, and Pinterest the trend itself and the influx of ideas has multiplied tremendously. Brides now start conversations with "Well I saw this idea on Pinterest..." and that dictates the amount of projects or ideas they have going for their wedding. That's not necessarily a bad thing, but it sure can multiply your to-do lists in a hurry!
Left image courtesy of Scoobie Schneider Photography; Right image courtesy of Daniel Meigs Photography.
ABG: In your experience, do DIY brides lean toward not hiring a wedding planner? Do they usually assume they can take care of everything?
Simply Yours: Viewing the wedding planner as unnecessary is a thought for a lot of Brides. I understand it, I started out as one of those Brides myself. A lot of the time, she sends me an email explaining her desired projects, while admitting she has finally come to a point where she does not have time to do all of them herself. OR she needs further direction on how to make the things she really wants come into fruition. Essentially, all brides think that they can do more, but emotional stability—family—time—all of these things weigh heavily on weddings. Feeling the weight of it all isn’t indicative of a bride’s talent or creative ability. It just reveals that our emotional capacity eventually reaches its end. We don’t realize how draining it will be until we’re in the middle of it.
Image courtesy of Betsy Limbaugh Photography.
ABG: What types of projects make the most sense for the DIY bride?
Simply Yours: Fun, personal quirks that polish off a wedding, such as guestbook elements, guest favors, pictures, signs, welcome baskets—things that don't require a lot of time, but weave the couples’ personality into the mix. I like to encourage brides to choose DIY projects that will not make or break their weddings.
Image courtesy of Scoobie Schneider Photography.
Images courtesy of Simply Yours Weddings.
ABG: How can a planner best help a DIY bride?
Simply Yours: Orchestrating an endless craft list along with managing a normal life and preparing a solid foundation for a marriage is simply too much. Eventually something has to give. The wedding planner is the give. She’s the support, let her finish it. She has the time and the resources to bring DIY ideas into fruition. She’s the one who understands what tends to fall through the cracks in weddings, and catches them before they do! She’s a master for details, who reminds the bride to be a bride, the mom to be a mom, and the best friend to be a best friend, all the while stepping up herself to complete a bride’s DIY fancies. You can trust her.
Image courtesy of Ulmer Studios Photography.
When projects seem endless, we oftentimes come to resent our creativity! Emily prizes your creativity, and on behalf of wedding planners, wants to implement your imaginative treasures into your special day! To learn more about how Emily can help you plan the day you've always dreamed of, visit her website today!
To get more sage advice from Emily and our host of experts, register today to attend our wedding planning boot camp, The Smart Bride, which starts March 13.
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Posted by Betsy-Intern |
Filed under: Advice & Planning, DIY & Budget Wed Finds, Wedding Planners & Coordinators
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Thursday, March 1, 2012
If you can't wait to partake in the March Madness college basketball frenzy, this month might pose a few challenges. There are so many not-to-miss wedding planning events! But with a solid action plan, you can attend events, meet wedding pros, buy your gown and your wedding decor (at a steal), and still kick back and enjoy as many basketball games as you'd like!
Here's our guide to upcoming bridal events. Unlike any other time of the year, this month will be chock-full of once-a-year bridal events, a month I'm affectionately calling "March Wedness". (Others are required to source ABG if you want to use this term!).
THE Details!
March 3 - Cedarwood Style Show
If you haven't yet finalized your wedding location, this would be a great Saturday to do so. Cedarwood is hosting a style show. It's primarily to showcase great style ideas for their current brides. But, if you haven't secured your wedding venue and seek an incredible outdoor space, plan to from 3-5 pm. You missed the RSVP date but I'm sure that if you are seriously interested in their venue, they'd be glad to add you to the list. (But contact them today!)
For details, click here.
March 4 - Here Come the Brides Bridal Show
I've never attended by I plan to stop by and check it out. Sorry, I can't give you insight into the show but I am excited to see what it has to offer Nashville brides and grooms. If you see me there, say hi!
Meg - I attended the show last year and compared to others, it is a bit small. But in a good way! As you step into the large room you get a feel for the layout. Typically set in a horseshoe, with with the stage in the middle, you can meander around or cut across, or take a break by the stage. I was in the midst of my planning when I went, but I had met Cathy (one the show producers) and she had encouraged me to attend. It really was fun, because the producers love doing this. They have fun with the fashion show and with having the attendees join in competitive games on stage - you could win great prizes for your wedding!
For more details, click here.
March 10 - Whole Weddings, a Bridal Show at Whole Foods
I'm really excited about this show. With more and more of us exploring the green way to live, I look forward to seeing what Whole Foods has to offer for weddings. I spoke with Linda, the event organizer, and she informed me that Whole Foods offers cakes and desserts, flowers, and catering for weddings and events. Tabitha and Meg, our ABG bloggers, swear by there desserts, especially those made with all natural dyes. While I'm not a green thumb or an all natural girl (just yet), I will be sure to check out their cake just for you! Hey, I'm a team player and duty calls.
The show promises to showcase all that Whole Foods offers for your wedding but they've also invited other eco-friendly wedding pros to showcase, from stationery to wedding planning. It will take place at their Green Hills location which is easy to get to. I hope to see you there.
For details, click here.
March 13 - Ashley's Wedding Planning Camp: Your Values, Vision + Budget
I know. You've heard me say it but my camp is one event this year that you should attend. I've invited expert wedding pros and newlyweds to help you plan your wedding the right way. There is NO other wedding planning class offered in Nashville but mine. You owe it to your relationship and your finances. My camp will help you reduce your stress, focus on your marriage and help you hire your wedding team like you're a pro.
At this first class, we will help you commit to your true values, discover your wedding vision / style, create and prioritize your wedding budget so you know what to spend and what not to spend. We will also be at our first location, Noah Liff Opera Center. If you attend all three nights, you will get a look and feel for three amazing venues.
For details, click here.
March 15 thru March 17 - Bridal Bargainista, for Bargains on Wedding Decor
We'll share a full details on this event next week but for now, be sure to register to attend (if you are a bride) and clean out your storage closets (if you are a newlywed or wed vendor looking to say goodbye to your used wedding goods).
This is the bargainista's first wedding consignment sale in Nashville but based on their sold-out show in Memphis last year, you should plan to attend with me.
For details, click here.
March 17- Goodwill Wedding Gala, for Bargains on Dresses
The Goodwill Wedding Gala is a great place to shop for the following: your wedding dress, rehearsal dinner dress, second dress for your reception, bridesmaid or mother of the bride/groom dress. Every dress is priced to sell, under $400. Some gowns are pre-owned, others sample gowns or brand new from bridal salons. Already have your dress? Shop the discounted accessories, from veils to shoes.
For details, click here.
March 20 - Ashley's Wedding Planning Camp: What Your Money Buys + Tips for Hiring Your Dream Wedding Team
This week's camp will take place at the Nashville City Club, which gives you an opportunity to tour it if you are still seeking a venue. The panel will be completely different than the 3/13 event and the topics discussed will change too.
For details, click here.
March 27 - Ashley's Wedding Planning Camp: How to Hire Your Dream Wedding Team (Part 2) + Smart Ways to Do It Yourself
For our third, and final evening, we will continue to discuss hiring your vendors. You're giving your budget to them and trusting them to create your perfectly imagined day - make sure you are hiring the right people, with the right contracts and information!
We will also talk about the very popular side of weddings - DIY! What you should and should not DIY, as well as some tips and examples of sucessful projects. The venue that evening will be Houston Station, which is a great space for creative minds.
For details, click here.
Keep watching our site and our events page as we will add events throughout the month and year as they are sent to us!
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Posted by Ashley of Ashley's Bride Guide |
Filed under: Advice & Planning, Bridal Shows & Events, DIY & Budget Wed Finds, Eco-Friendly Weddings
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Monday, February 27, 2012
Whether your guests are from out of town or local, you want them all to feel equally welcome and ready to have a great time at your wedding. How do you achieve that goal? Trust us, a well executed wedding takes a pro.
Kristin Kaplan, a professional wedding planner and owner of Simply Stunning Events, puts her couples at ease by guiding them through their planning process and wedding day. Today, she shares advice that will help you think through the finer details of your wedding, so it's enjoyable for all involved.
From Kristin, owner of Simply Stunning Events...
Your wedding is a life changing and important event, but it is also a beautiful day of celebration for your family and friends. You might hear “It’s your day,…do whatever you want…it’s all about you” but I personally feel that’s not the way to go about planning your wedding. One of the most amazing aspects of the day is that it is the ONE time when all of the most important people in your lives from the past and present, all come together to honor and support you as a couple. And these days, weddings are hardly home-town affairs anymore. Many, if not all, of your guests might be traveling from out-of-town, which is even more of a reason to keep them in mind as you plan your day. Therefore, I’ve put together some wedding day topics in which it’s important to really consider your guests so that they will be as comfortable as possible and have a great time!
ABG Notes: Make the smiles on their faces last for the whole night. (Picture by Gray Photography)
The Venue, Travel, & Lodging
In choosing when and where to hold your wedding, it’s important to pick a date and location that won’t make it incredibly difficult for your guests to attend. While long weekends are popular, air travel and hotel rooms can be more expensive, and people may not want to give up their holiday weekend to travel far for a wedding. However, some pros for holiday weekends are that guests may have more time to spend for the wedding events since they already have an extra day or two off - the same goes for Friday or Sunday weddings. Many venues offer discounts to reserve days other than Saturdays but in choosing those days, your guests may have to take extra time off of work to attend. If most of your guests are local, a Sunday wedding is a great alternative.
Regardless of when you choose to have your wedding, if there will be guests traveling from out of town so be sure to reserve a block of hotel rooms, preferably at two different hotels that are each in a different budget range, and assist your guests by giving lots of information about area attractions, transportation (rental cars and taxis), and great places to eat while they are in town.
When considering whether to choose a wedding venue downtown, be aware that parking is often expensive and hard to find in the evenings (especially if there is a big concert, football or hockey game going on), and there may be a lot of noise and partying happening around the venue. Downtown venues are great if most of your guests will be staying in a hotel nearby anyway but if not, consider renting a shuttle to assist in getting them where they need to be, and so as to avoid parking costs.
ABG Notes: Include information on local attractions with your invitation or through your wedding website. (Picture by McCoy Made)
The Food & Drink
The concept of the wedding reception has always been centered around a celebratory meal, typically dinner. In the past, a seated or buffet dinner was always the norm, however lately, couples have become more interested in food stations or cocktail-style receptions. I personally love this trend, when done the right way and for the right reasons.
If you are choosing to host a cocktails only or light hors d’oeuvre style reception in order to serve less food and save money, please keep some key points in mind. First if the reception is happening at a mealtime, you need to serve a meal (and a filling one). The same goes for if you are having a 4-5 hour reception. It is in poor taste to expect guests to celebrate all night long and not feed them an actual meal just so you can save some money. Consider other ways to cut costs such as inviting fewer guests (always the simplest way to reduce your budget!).
When is it ok to serve a light meal?
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If you have a morning or early afternoon reception (a great option for those looking to keep costs down for both the food and bar).
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If you are having a shorter reception that begins late in the evening (for example you are having an 8 PM ceremony, followed by a 2 hour reception from 8:30 – 10:30 PM). In those cases you wouldn’t be expected to serve a large meal.
There has also been a huge increase in recent years of dietary restrictions and deciding on your menu can get a little tricky. Your guests may have allergies to certain foods or choose to be vegetarians or be gluten-free. My thoughts on this are that it’s nice to be as accommodating as you can to these guests, however you are never going to please everyone. Serve the food that you love as a couple but offer one or two options that those with dietary restrictions may be able to enjoy (such as one vegetable entrée and appetizer). Most people with dietary restrictions know they won’t be able to eat much and will usually eat before arriving.
When deciding what type of beverages to serve, there are a few different options and considerations. First, cash bars are a NO-NO! Please, don’t even think about it. Either host the bar, or don’t serve alcohol at all. You would never host a party at your home and expect your guests to pay for their own drinks, so absolutely do not do it at a wedding. You can either serve a full bar (which includes a variety of liquor and mixed drinks) or beer and wine only (which is perfectly acceptable and another great way to keep costs down).
ABG Notes: Let them know what's in store for the evening. (Picture by McLellan Style)
The Gratitude
Lastly, when all is said-and-done, you’re married, you’ve had a fantastic reception and honeymoon, and you are settling into your new life as husband and wife, it’s now time to THANK YOUR GUESTS. Send custom, hand-written thank you notes within 2 months of the wedding date to thank them for the wedding gift and let them know how much you appreciate them for supporting and loving you on such a special day.
Kristin Kaplan and Simply Stunning Events is a wedding planning company. For more information visit them at SimplyStunningNashville.com.
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