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Bridal Shows & Events

Miss the HER Nashville Bridal Brunch? More Great Wedding Finds

Tuesday, March 9, 2010

I've got more great wedding finds to share from the Her Nashville / Focus bridal show, just in case you missed the event. 

First up, b. Hughes Bridal and Signature Events, two wonderful wedding resources! b. Hughes Bridal displayed their spring collection of bridal gowns. Ruffles, feathers, and flowers are in, as you can see! These styles would look great with vintage and rustic themed weddings. Signature Events has a vibrant personality and was recently featured in Martha Stewart Weddings. You should check them out! They do exceptional things in weddings here in Nashville.

Up next, a catering company called Clean Plate Club. They provided tasty brunch treats in the form of omelets that beautiful morning. They looked and tasted exquisite! So often brides forget that a brunch reception is a great and budget friendly alternative, especially for Sunday weddings. And, really, who doesn't love breakfast?!  Ashley certainly did!  She chowed down on a cheese omelette while I enjoyed a Mimosa.

Bacon and Caviar was another catering company offering up deletable brunch treats. They served smoked salmon patties with a salad. It was delicious! Their drink of choice was fruit tea, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Truth be told, I'm really particular about my tea, too. If you get a chance, try their fruit tea.

Of course, after those brunch treats, you'd need something sweet. At the bridal show, there were two bakeries - The Bake Shoppe and Cupcake Collection. Each had their own kind of yumminess.

The Bake Shoppe featured cakes inspired by the latest in bridal gown trends.  If you missed their series, read about wedding cakes inspired by bridal gowns part 1 and wedding cakes part 2 only on ABG! The Cupcake Collection had some tasty treats as well. My favorites were the sweet potato cupcake, which tasted like spice cake, and the red velvet cupcake. I'm not usually an icing person, but both had deliciously creamy ones.

The Bake Shoppe

Cupcake Collection

Music City Events had another great spring tablescape. They used a soft green linen with white accents on the table. The hydrangeas were also a great touch for the spring tablescape. It would look great for a vintage or rustic style wedding, as well.

Wedding 101 looked great as well. It is a great FREE resource for brides in Nashville and the Middle TN area. They had shabby chic decor as well. This is really prevalent in weddings right now. So, if you're looking for a theme, this could be a good one!

Eyecandy Salon is a hot salon that is all about glamour. They are located downtown and have great pricing for all brides! The salon is also planning a bridal extravaganza called Bridal Carnevale. It is planned for April 18th and has a complete facebook page dedicated to the festivities.

Geny's Wedding and Events floored me as soon as I walked upstairs. I don't know if they did it on purpose, but they took the splashes of red in the Noah Liff Opera Center and ran with it. They used one of my favorite color schemes - red and damask - that I think can be used for any season. To brighten it up, they used green, which lightens the darkness of the black and makes it a perfect spring or summer palette.

It was a great bridal show that showcased wonderful wedding resources.  Hope my recap will help you find a few additional ideas or resources for your big day.  Thanks to Kristyn Hogan lifestylye photographer for all photos.

Posted by Cassandra | Filed under: Bridal Shows & Events, Vendors & Venues 0 comments »

Fun Finds from the HER Nashville Bridal Brunch - Pt. 1

Monday, March 8, 2010

The Her Nashville bridal show is my new favorite bridal show!  I loved the venue, Noah Liff Opera Center, which boasts a beautiful, open and airy ambiance that made the show seem very LA:).  Seriously, I felt like I'd been transported to a different city.  Not that I don't love Nashville but the show had a very different vibe than any I've attended in the past.

I attended the show with Cassie, who is here to share all of our favorite wedding finds with you.  

Enjoy ~ Ashley

 

On the last weekend in February, nFocus and HER magazine hosted a bridal brunch at the Noah Liff Opera Center. The center is centrally located; close enough to all the hottest spots downtown without all the noise and traffic. If you haven't visited the site yet, you should. It is a great new Nashville wedding venue  and perfect for any bride! The center is perfect because it will compliment any color scheme, especially with the little pops of red throughout the whole place. I particularly like the drama and sophistication of the red spiral staircase.


Another great thing about the Noah Liff Opera Center is the ambiance and lighting. The floor to ceiling windows are a great touch and would look spectacular at night. Think of the stars twinkling on your wedding night. A great compliment to the twinkling stars in the night sky is the lighting. The small, smartly placed lights overhead look like stars and hang oh-so-delicately. The lights also echo the spiral staircase with their cylindrical appearance.

StudioWed had a gorgeous set up right as you walked up the stairs. Their tablescape was perfect for a spring wedding. The linens were charcoal gray with an accent of a soft, pale green for the napkin linens. They complimented each other in a fabulous way and looked stunning next to the floor to ceiling windows. The ladies of Studio Wed also had a mini candy buffet set up in coordinating colors. In particular, I really enjoyed the coke flavored candy. It was too cute! Their floral design was provided by Brocade Design and were spectacular.

(Notice the cute canvas tote bag on the bride's arm? It's an ABG bag!)

Designs in Paper gave away super cute mini scrapbooks! They were very festive and were filled with the cutest papers. Also given to the brides to be were buttons. The buttons said "Future Mrs." with the new first letter of your last name. I snatched one up for myself, as well as scrapbook since I am a bride to be. Plus, they were just too adorable to pass up. Designs in Paper is great because they do more than stationery. They offer cake toppers, specialized confetti, and other paper goodies.

Faccio Bridal displayed superb dresses for a spring wedding. They were flowy, detailed, and accentuated the waist. The bridesmaids dresses complimented the bridal gowns well too. They echoed the strapless look of the gowns but in a beautiful fushia color, which is perfect for spring and summer weddings. I also enjoyed the use of the sash on the flower girl's dress; it matched the bridesmaid dresses, which is a great way to tie in the colors.

 

Creative Designs and Events had another great spring/summer tablescape. They used black and yellow with hints of silver and gray. It was a perfectly simple design and would look great for an evening wedding. The yellow roses were a great added touch to brighten up the design and the space. The candles added great ambience too.  I also loved the custom invitations and menu cards that used the same patterned fabric.

More highlights tomorrow!  Thanks to Kristyn Hogan lifestylye photographer for accompanying us and capturing our favorite finds.

Posted by Cassandra | Filed under: Bridal Shows & Events 0 comments »

We’re All Invited! Join Us Tonight at the Grand Opening of StudioWed

Monday, March 1, 2010

We are so excited, no, THRILLED to announce that StudioWed Nashville is now open!  StudioWed is the official sponsor of our new, very snazzy website, and we could hardly wait for their studio to officially open its doors to us and all the brides in Music City.  Even better, the space will soon become the ABG team's official work {hang out} space! 

Located at Edgehill Studios,  StudioWed is an exclusive collection of Nashville wedding vendors representing the finest wedding professionals in the Middle Tennessee area. According to their owners, Mary Alice and Leigh, "This is a hip and revolutionary concept in local and destination weddings in Nashville; a stylish and sophisticated planning studio where Nashville's best wedding vendors come to you. Meet with a photographer over coffee in the morning and enjoy a glass as you chat with a florist in the afternoon. Best of all, there is no cost to you as a bride to use StudioWed's services, so you can feel free to spend an entire day--- or as many as you need--- planning your big day!"

studiowed-nashville-now-open

Come see StudioWed for yourself and see why team ABG loves being there.  Stop by tonight for some after-work cocktails and hors d'ouevres (my favorite kind of after-work activity) to celebrate their official opening!  Even if you have plans, just come before/after and hang out with us, the wonderful girls from StudioWed and their terrific vendors.

Open House Details

Date: TODAY! 

Time: 5:00 - 9:00PM

Who: All Nashville brides {plus guest} and Nashville wedding pros

Where: 1200 Villa Place, #402 (Edgehill Village across from Dulce Desserts) in Nashville; Parking is available along the street and lot.

We really hope you can make it tonight since we'll all be there.  But, you can also stop by any day this week to meet the owners, check out the vendors and studio. Call 615.739.5477 for more info or to set up a complimentary appointment.

Posted by Tabitha | Filed under: Bridal Shows & Events 1 comment »

What’s a Girl to Do? An Insider’s Guide to This Week’s Bridal Events

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).

bridal gown trunk shows

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!

Williamson_county_Nashville_venue

franklin_tn_wedding_venue

Pics from their last Open House at CJ's Off the Square

bake_shoppe_nashville_weddings

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 nashville wedding

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

Posted by Ashley | Filed under: Bridal Shows & Events, Luxury Wed Finds 1 comment »

Say Yes To Your Dress at the Kleinfeld Kollection and Reem Acra Trunk Show & Celebration!

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

I'm so excited I don't even know where to begin! 

One of our most fabulous site sponsors, b.Hughes Bridal, is raising the bar for brides this week and "double the fun" seems to be the theme!  First, b.Hughes Bridal invites you to a dual trunk show at their boutique. Next, join them at an exclusive celebration of brides and gorgeous gowns at the Country Music Hall of Fame! 

THE DETAILS:

Mark your calendars for the Reem Acra AND Kleinfeld Collection Trunk show this Thursday February 25 through Saturday February 27, followed by Brides' Night Out at the Country Music Hall of Fame on Saturday!!

nashville_bhughes_bridal_boutique

 

THE DESIGNERS:

You might recognize the name Kleinfeld (kleinfeld.com), especially if you watch "Say Yes to the Dress!"  The new Kleinfeld Collection recently arrived at b.Hughes and the prices are unbelieveable! The gowns start at a base price of $1,500 and go up to just $4,000 with most of them being within the base to $3,000 price range - that is almost unheard of when it comes to good, designer gowns. It's no surprise they've seen positive response from brides and this is definitely a wonderful option for brides who want to look like a million bucks without breaking the bank.

 

Exclusively for the trunk show, b.Hughes is offering 10% off the price of your Kleinfeld or Reem Acra gown when you purchase it that weekend.  Let's take a quick look at what's in store.

Kleinfeld's designer Alita Graham's style is elegant and simple - her gowns will be a favorite of brides with more classic tastes.  For the glamorous bride, Perla D. will cater to your love of glitter.  Lots of elaborate beading, some sexy lace-up corsets and luscious chiffon  - I can envision these dresses twirling and catching the light just right on the dance floor.  Not to be outdone, Kleinfeld's third designer Sophia Moncelli's gorgeous, more contemporary designs will also be available to try on.

The full collection, as well as their veils, can be found online and will be available to sample at the trunk show.  I am also thrilled to remind you that sharing the weekend's limelight are gowns from renowned fashion desig Reem Acra's Spring/Fall 2010 collection.  As a Reem Acra bride, I have a soft spot for her gowns.  How could you not?

Nashville_bridal_reem_acra

There are still appoinments left, so please give them a call to schedule your time and get the most out of this trunk show. 

THE CELEBRATION:

Now, the fun doesn't end there - to top the trunk show off with a bang, b. Hughes invites you to join them downtown for Bride's Night Out!

Nashville_brides_night_out

It's going to be a lot of fun with the showcase of the gorgeous gowns, the good food and drinks in one of our city's coolest venues. 

PARTYING WITH US:

So once you've found your perfect dress (or want to see the showcase for the first time), head downtown to celebrate with b. Hughes Bridal and the good folk at the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Just FYI, they are keeping this event intimate so seating is limited. Be sure to R.S.V.P. when you call them to schedule your appointment at the trunk show.

(Pictures courtesy of McLellan Style, Kleinfeld.com and ReemAcra.com)

Posted by Tabitha | Filed under: Attire & Accessories, Bridal Shows & Events 0 comments »

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