Are do-it-yourself (DIY) wedding projects on your to-do list? If you are like most brides (including me) you have grandiose plans for DIY invitations, decor, etc.
Now there’s a great local resource! In addition to amazing floral design, Rhonda Patton Weddings also empowers DIY brides (via her blog) with a wedding decor “how-to” guide. These tips will help you create fab on your own.
Word to the wise - start these projects way early as most brides realize towards the end that they don’t have any time to spare and many wonderful ideas never make it to the big day. Be realistic. If you can’t do it all (which you should never attempt) hire a Nashville wedding professional like Rhonda Patton Weddings to make your sweet dreams come true!
Rhonda Patton Weddings - Candy Bar DIY
Why are brides craving “candy bars/buffets” at their reception? I thought this trend was slowly moving passed Nashville brides. But, I have several brides this year who are incorporating candy bars at their reception. The candy bar will be a substitute for wedding favors and is probably a less expensive alternative. Last year, I witnessed the love of candy from both kids and adults. They can add fun and a splash of color to your wedding. However, if presented poorly, candy bars can be “cheesy”. Remember, it’s all in the presentation.
Here’s the “scoop” on candy bars:
COLOR PALETTE
1. The candy should represent the wedding/reception color palette. Non-wrapped candies work best.
(This candy buffet is a classic. The layered M&M’s make a great focal point.What makes this bar elegant is the black and white color palette.)
VASE SIZE
2. Use large, wide mouth glass containers so the candy is easy to scoop. Use vases that vary in height and shape. Staggering heights make the bar look unique.
(This bar is beautiful; a nice conglomerate of pinks and chocolates and a little bit of bling can go a long way.The wide mouth glass goblet makes scooping easy and the staggered height makes this bar one of a kind.Don’t forget to personalize your bar.A picture of the bride and groom, custom labels for the containers and bags makes a candy station to remember.)
3. Don’t use the containers with the glass suction tops. They are hard to remove and often get broken. I recommend not having tops at all.
(This candy bar is bitter sweet.Thumbs up - varied textured candies and the multiple shades of green.Thumbs down - lack of decorative elements to fight the overpowering white linen.I recommend raising the back containers by use of risers or phone books placed under the linens.Also, I would do away with the container lids as they make it difficult for guest to sample the candy.I would use satin linens or a colored organza to soften the blow of white linens.)
SCOOPS
4. Don’t forget the scoops. Ice cream scoops work well for jelly beans, M&M’s or other small candies but small candy scoops will certainly do the trick.
5. Have one scoop per container.
6. As an option, neatly label your container, either on the container or beside the container. Your guest like to know what they are sampling.
(This bold bar has all the elements from a jewel tone color palette, staggering heights, wide mouth containers to photo labels.The photo labels are attached with colorful grosgrain ribbon.An easy DIY for any bride!)
7. Using a round table works well because your guest can mingle around the table.
(This bar is colorful although a little cluttered.The round table leaves plenty of wiggle room.The colors are a nice representation of the wedding color palette.Green satin linens with pink ribbon draped in between the containers with colorful napkins all make great decorative elements.The sprouting twizzlers are a nice twist.)
8. Don’t forget the carry away pails or small baggies for the candy.
TABLE DECOR
9. Decorate your table with other elements (IE., organza fabric, crystals, flowers, a picture of the bride and groom, etc) If the area will be dim, place Christmas lights under the organza fabric for romantic shimmer.
CANDY SELECTION
10. Make sure you have a sensible amount of candy on the table. Too much candy will clutter the table and too little candy will make the table look bare.
11. Search the candy aisle for the perfect candy. Look for interesting shapes, textures, flavors, etc.
(Oversize champagne glasses are a nice addition for this layered effect.Layered jelly beans sure makes this bar look yummy.)
12. Search the Internet for nostalgic candies.
(If looking for a neat sample station with a pop, try gourmet popcorn in glass containers.From caramel to cheddar cheese this one is sure to please.)
13. Appoint someone to manage the bar, either your planner or a family member can keep the bar neat and stocked with candy.
14. Have your photographer take pictures of the bar before your guest begin to sample.
Love the look but don’t have the time/creativity? Contact me and get fab without the fuss.
Corine of Weddings with Reese has shared great wedding planning ideas with our Nashville bridal community. This time, I decided to reach out to learn a bit more about her wedding planning experience, approach and faves.
I already knew she was ultra-creative, but here’s more about this amazing up and coming planner…
How did you get started in weddings?
After helping a few friends with their weddings, and loving every second if it, I began thinking that perhaps I could actually plan weddings for a living! I got lots of praise from the friends I worked with and their vendors, and decided to make a go of it.
What do you like most about weddings?
The joy of a bride and groom really enjoying every second of their wedding day. My favorite moment of a wedding is when they do their first dance and all eyes are on them, and they look so blissfully happy. In that moment, I am always reminded of why I love what I do.
What’s your favorite wedding pic/video and why?
I think this picture is so funny, and telling of a wedding planner’s life. I am sewing a tear in the bride’s dress! The photographer thought it would be humorous to capture that moment, and afterwards I appreciated it!
What is your service philosophy?
Treat every bride as if she’s your only one. Each girl should feel that you are devoting all of your time and attention to her. I also believe fully in responding to emails/phone calls from brides right away, as I know how it feels to be kept waiting. When a bride has a thought or concern, I want to be there immediately to help them.
What are your strengths compared to others in your category? / Why should a bride hire you?
I sincerely love to give brides a lot for their money. That goes for maximizing their budget, first of all. Secondly, though I have “packages” that are fully described, I do not limit myself to the confines of the descriptions. A bride can be assured that I will honestly do anything and everything I am capable of to make her day a success.
Who are your 5 favorite Nashville wedding vendors?
Oh, where to start!!?
1 - Ashley’s Bride Guide - I honestly cannot express the value of this resource!
2 - McLellan Studios - Amazing photographs and an amazing team. They are wonderful in every aspect!
3 - Cuppycakes Bakery - Something really different to add a unique spin to weddings. Amazing customer service as well.
4 - The Sweetest Day - Amazing and beautiful cakes, and at very reasonable prices.
Love McLellan Studio too! I haven’t tried Cuppycakes or The Sweetest Day…but I look forward to. Who do you recommend when you’re not available/not a fit?
Lindsey Monger with A Bride Idea. Our styles and prices are pretty similar and I trust her, as I have seen her in action!
I love Lindsey too. In fact, she’s the first wedding planner I met when starting my website. She was very supportive and totally gets brides. And, you guys are similar! What do you read/watch regularly to stay on top of wedding/event trends?
I lurk on the Knot chat boards to see what TN girls are talking about. I also read every magazine known to the wedding industry (and others)!
Let’s discuss wedding trends. Which trend do you love?
Hanging things from the ceiling of your reception venue!! There is of course the Chinese lanterns, but beyond that even, glass candle holders, round glass globes, hanging vases, mirrors, fabric, the list goes on! I love the surreal look it provides.
Which trend do you hate?
I really can’t think of any! Brides often have some crazy ideas, but I like to make them work, no matter what I think of them!
What are your favorite wedding websites?
TheKnot.com, MarthaStewart.com and Ashleysbrideguide.com
Aww…Corrine, you’re too sweet. Thank you! Any parting advice parting Nashville brides?
Find a planner/coordinator to work with who fits your style and budget. You will be spending a lot of time with her and you want to mesh well! The initial consult with a planner is a great way to see if you think you will work well together. The ability to be able to openly communicate with her is invaluable. You will always know that you can go to her with any questions/concerns and she will be open to whatever you have to say.
Hey everyone, Join me in welcoming our newest blogger, Anna!
As I mentioned a few weeks ago, I have invited real Nashville brides to take us on their wedding planning journey. You’ve met Stacey, our Fabuless Bride. Today, I am super psyched to introduce Anna. I have enjoyed Anna’s blog for weeks now. Her wedding is in May so she’s at a different point in her wedding planning than Stacey. I am certain that you will LOVE Anna’s blogging; she’s an amazing story teller and has chosen fantastic vendors.
Without further delay, meet Anna, another fabulous Nashville bride…
Last October, The Mister and I had our e-pics taken by Krista Lee Photography. I chose to go with Krista because she has a sunny disposition, is easy to work with and has very reasonable rates…. and hello, she is an awesome photographer, which is my #1 priority!
We decided to pick our own location since we didn’t want the traditional hug-a-tree-and-look-at-each-other-awkwardly pictures. We chose an area off of Murfreesboro Road which is mostly Hispanic. The Mister and I had a great time posing in front of Mexican restaurants and laundry mats. The colors were very bright and cheerful. This was also a good opportunity for us to become more comfortable posing for Krista.
Don’t these colors POP? Yowza. That orange will wake you up! We also lucked out with the weather. The ENTIRE week there were thunderstorms, and for our session, the clouds actually parted to reveal a little sunshine. And 30 minutes after our session ended, it started raining again. True story.
Overall, The Mister and I were pleased with the shots, given the fact that we had only an hour to do it on a Thursday during our lunch break. I wish we had done a few more where we were simply hugging and smiling into the camera, but alas… there’s only so much you can do in 60 minutes.
When I got married, I searched everywhere for great gifts for my maids and guests. There are a million stores selling all types of wedding stuff but a lot of them have the same ole’, cheesy items.
So, I thought I would do a quick round-up of some of my fancy finds. Send me your favorite gift ideas, especially local finds, so I can highlight them too!
Nashville- area finds:
The Write Impression - I found this cute little store while shopping in Murfreesboro yesterday. Don’t you love the name! They carry presents, papers and party goodies. They had these adorable tote bags and I also like these bride/groom nametags. They are located at 120 South Maple Street / 615-217-2109.
Let’s Make It Personal/ ([email protected]) - I met Sandy at the Bluegrass bridal show on Sunday. I thought her custom, red totes were so cute. Sandy can make them in a variety of colors and can add monograms.
Online finds:
The favors featured below can be found at Favor Affair.
“We Clicked” Mouse Pads - Yes, I love “chic-geek” so I am partial to these mousepad favors.
“Love…Let Me Count the Ways” Heart-Shaped Calculator
The Bridesmaids Brag Bag with Silver Heart Charm
“Pucker Up!” Personalized Lip Balm (Set of 12)
Collapsible CarryOn - Personalized Chocolate Stripe Tote Bag - Don’t you just LOVE the color!
Mini Classic Gumball Dispenser - You can
Well, I am signing off - heading to a wedding on Saturday - imagine that - and to Atlanta for the Jay Z concert. I can’t wait to see if he and Beyonce get married on today, which is the rumor. I hope they do and I hope that she joins him in concert. Hey - it could happen.
Yesterday, I finally visited A Bride’s Storey. Nashville brides and planners have raved about A Bride’s Storey, so I thought I would check out this Murfreesboro bridal salon myself.
When I arrived, I saw a cute little mom and bride to be leaving the store with a huge smile - great start!
I entered the store, with my crew of wedding planners with whom I’d eaten lunch, and was pleasantly greeted by Melissa - the new co-owner. We waited as she finished working with her client and she gave me a tour of the salon and her amazing collections.
Before I get into the pictures (which I know you love!), here are a few things that I love about A Bride’s Storey:
1) They can take your measurements for $5 without a purchase. Salons are shying away from taking measurements of non-purchasers, rightfully so - it does take time, time that could be spent with paying clients. But, $5 is no big deal.
2) They work with an outside seamstress who can do your alterations. However, she can come to A Bride’s Storey for your fittings. (If you don’t purchase your dress at A Bride’s Storey, they will still put you in contact with their preferred seamstress.)
3) Your dress will be steamed (before your wedding) and cleaned and preserved (after your wedding) for free. It’s included in your service. Awesome! My dress is 2 years old and cleaning is on my to-do list.
4) When you buy your dress at A Bride’s Storey, you and your party get 10% other purchases in the store - invitations, shoes, mom’s dress, bridesmaid dresses, etc. Plus, Street Tuxedo is just a few doors down AND they honor the 10% discount too. Money in the bank!
5) My first impression of Melissa was great. Now, I havent purchased a dress there but we were off to a good start. You’d be surprised at how many Nashville-area bridal salons I visited that didn’t leave a positive first impression.
She carries 9 lines of bridal gowns plus attire for bridesmaids, flower girls and mothers of the bride/groom. Today, I’ll share one of her lines, San Patrick, which I think is amazing. A Bride’s Storey is one of 2 Nashville bridal salons that carries San Patrick. It is a European collection, I think out of Spain so you will notice lots of lace.
I visited their website to show you some of their breathtaking gowns.
So, that’s the skinny on A Bride’s Storey. Visit the salon to see more of this stunning collection. I promise, it’s even more spectacular in person.
I reached out to Linda of Nashville’s Belle Meade Plantation to learn more about wedding venue options. Aside from being a historic landmark, they offer indoor and outdoor options, making it a great “all-in-one” spot for your ceremony and vacation.
Here’s more about the Belle Meade Plantation. (All photos from Belle Meade Plantation website. Visit their website for photo credits.)
Belle Meade Plantation may be rented for after hour special events. The 1890’s Carriage House and Stables are a wonderful venue for wedding receptions, engagement parties and rehearsal dinners. The BoxwoodGarden boasts grandeur that graciously hosts many of the finest wedding ceremonies each year. Timeless. Elegant. Classic. Just like your wedding day, our grounds speak for themselves.
What options does your venue offer?
Engagement Parties
Rehearsal Dinners
Ceremony
Reception
What rooms are available?
Our grounds are closed to the public each day at 5:00pm making our BoxwoodGarden, Carriage House and Stables all private events areas.
What group sizes can you accommodate? Outdoor & Indoor combined: 250 Max seated
Outdoor & Indoor combined: 300 Max Stand up reception
What catering options do you allow?
On-site catering-yes
Outside catering allowed—yes
Preferred list of caterers—yes
Outside alcohol allowed—yes
Great! Is an on-site event coordinator available?
There is an Events Supervisor that is available throughout the duration of each event to answer questions and oversee the set up and break down of each event.
What is your pricing model?
Room rental fee $1500-$5000
Which bride budgets do you serve?
$$$ (moderate - $20-50K)
$$$$ (luxe - $50K)
What else should brides know about your venue?
We are a historic not-for-profit museum.
Contact Linda at Belle Meade Plantation to discuss your upcoming wedding.
So, Ray (finace) and I are full-on into registry mode! I didn’t realize so many people would be asking about it so soon, so we are getting at it as fast as we can!
We’re already totally set on Bed, Bath & Beyond and getting everything we can there! So far we’ve nailed down our bedroom linens, bathroom stuff, china, and lots of kitchen gadgets. We haven’t chosen lots of decorative stuff, or any basic kitchen theme stuff- pot holders, dish towels, everyday dishes, etc. I wasn’t crazy about any of what they have, so I thought we’d do Target. However, in talking to several recent brides, I’ve hardly heard one good thing about their return policies and their registry updates! In the store they even tell you it takes up to 3 hrs for it to update online. Every thing at BB&B is real time updates, they have NO problems with exchanges even without receipts, and they even give cash for returned items. I’ve heard nothing but good about that store!
or or neither??
I have had hassles in the past with returning stuff at Target. They only allow you two returns a year without a receipt- even when you are just getting store credit! And I tend to get lots of gifts from there! I looooooove the store! I’ve mentioned lots of good stuff I’ve found there on my blog already! But I do hate their return policy! I’ve been stuck with two pairs of the same shoes from another wedding, well since last summer!! They still have them, still regular price and they’ve never been worn and I can’t return them!! Keep meaning to get Ray to do it for me, but until then, they sit in my trunk!
I know that Walmart is getting tougher on returns, but I’m just wondering about their wedding gift return policy and how good their registry is. I did think it was kinda ghetto to register at Walmart, but hey-that’s where I do a lot of my shopping on a regular basis. They are getting much cuter stuff in the home sections, and some of the stuff I actually like better than Target! And I’ve heard lots of people say lately that they WISH they’d registered at Walmart- at least just to get the gift cards!
So, what’s a girl to do?! I do have several things on my Target registry, but the only thing I just can’t do without from there are these picture frames….
(plus a few more!)
which go oooooh so well with our Nautica bedspread we picked out (Ray’s favorite thing of ALL! He loves Nautica like I love Roxy!)
(believe me, I will totally girlie this up!! :o) )
Do I stick with Target? Or drop it for Walmart? I’d like to give people more choices than just BB&B, and I’m not too fond of registering at any department stores, which I never shop at otherwise!
Help!!
Ashley Adds:
I totally know how you feel. I registered at BBB, Target, Linens and Things (for stuff that neither had). I didn’t register at Walmart. I found Target to be HORRIBLE because of their awful return policy.
I love Target when I am shopping for myself but don’t like it for registries. They expect folks to give you gift receipts, which is so unlikely. BBB on the other hand was FANTASTIC. However, I’ve heard that their return policy may have changed since I got married. But, I was able to return so many things for cash or for exchange with no questions asked. They were amazing. But, double check to make sure you know their new policy. Again, not familiar with Walmart but I know in general they are pretty good about returns and give a gift card without a receipt. Who can’t use a Walmart gift card:)?
Come on Fab, I say keep it real with your wedding - if you shop at Walmart regularly (like millions of Americans do whether they admit it or not:) then register there. My mom kept telling me that I needed to register at Macy’s or a department store for China. Well, China I will NEVER use and I never shop at Macys. So, I registered at Pottery Barn (not the greatest return policy either) for these monogrammed, everyday whites and my guests purchased many items from there. I did a small registry at Macys (for mom) and got like 1 item from there. Bottom line, do you!
Based on your choices, I personally would do Walmart and BBB. If those Target frames are a must-have, get them with the cash from BBB:) Just my two cents.
or 
or neither??