Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Because every couple is different from the last, JHenderson Studios doesn’t limit you to specific sessions, but instead allows you to customize your own packages based on what you want! One of those session that JHenderson offers is a bridal portrait session. Bridal portraits are a southern tradition and these sessions add to those special memories. Not familar with bridal portraits? We asked Jenna to tell us all about bridal portraits and how they can complement your wedding package.
What is a bridal portrait photogrphy session?
JHenderson Studios: A bridal portrait is a photograph of a bride wearing her wedding gown that was taken prior to the wedding in a separate photo session. Traditionally, the photograph is enlarged and framed and put on display at the wedding reception.
From your experience, how common is it for a bride to have a portrait done?
JHenderson Studios: It's a tradition that is becoming less and less popular. Sometimes, when clients plan a bridal portrait, it is at the request of their mothers!
What purpose does a bridal portrait serve?
JHenderson Studios: Traditionally, bridal portraits were used as wedding announcements in the local newspapers (announcing the newly married couple), but engagement photos and/or a photo of the bride and groom are more common photography sessions today. Bridal sessions give brides an opportunity to have a formal portrait of themselves in their wedding gown, without the rush and hustle of a wedding day.
When should a bride have her bridal portrait taken in regards to her wedding timeline?
JHenderson Studios: Several factors can determine when bridal sessions are scheduled. If you've ordered your dress, you need to make sure you allow plenty of time for it to come in and alterations to be made. If you're planning on having a photo on display at the wedding reception, you need to communicate with your photographer and make sure you have plenty of time to choose and order a print or canvas and have it framed prior to the wedding. Usually, my clients will schedule their session 1 to 2 months before their wedding.
What are some ways a bride can prepare for her bridal portrait? Do you recommend this being a trial run for her hair and make-up?
JHenderson Studios: The first step for a bridal portrait is the location. I suggest my clients think of somewhere other than their wedding venue that might be significant to them...perhaps the campus of the college they attended, or the church in which their parents were married. It's also important to make a plan for hair and make-up; a bridal session provides an excellent opportunity for a trial run. Brides often overlook getting a bouquet for their session, but having flowers can really pull it all together.
What about the wedding dress? How is it kept clean and new when the bridal portrait is being taken?
JHenderson Studios: Of course, we want to keep them as clean as possible, but it doesn't always require that the dress never touch the ground. I've had clients bring sheets to keep underneath their dress, and if you're going out in the middle of a field on a farm, this might be helpful, but if you're staying indoors, it's unnecessary and can slow your session down. Sometimes, dresses do get a little dirty, but typically it's only the underneath edges, which will never really show up in pictures or on the wedding day, and it can always be cleaned prior to your wedding. The best thing to do to keep your dress clean is to pick it up when you walk, and be sure your hands are clean.
What are some fun things you’re seeing brides do in their bridal portraits?
JHenderson Studios: I've had a handful of clients who elected to have their bridal session after the wedding. This gives us so much more freedom, because we don't have the worry of keeping the dress clean!
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Posted by Betsy-Intern |
Filed under: Advice & Planning, Photography2 comments »
Thursday, April 26, 2012
As a bride with your personal flares and fancies, you can have a one of a kind dress to match your one of a kind love story, beautifully stitched around your style and heart with every detail customized to perfection. Nestled in Hillsboro Village, owner of Romantic Creations, Maria Elena strives to reflect your spirit as a bride from beginning to end in the dress design, creating a magical piece specifically fashioned for your unforgettable moment. After talking with Maria, I quickly found that she combines her captivating passion with her years of expertise and joyfully creates the dream dress that you’ve always envisioned yourself wearing. This woman is enchanting, and each of her dresses reflects her sincere love and radiance for the astounding work she does.
Many years ago, we featured Beth and Ravi's wedding and it became our most popular wedding feature of the year, due to the couple's intimate wedding. But one aspect that fellow brides also loved was Beth's custom bridal gown, a Romantic Creations design. We've been a fan of Maria's since then and jumped at the opportunity to learn more about the talented, gracious woman.
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All Photos: Angela Disrud Photography
Can you tell me a little bit about the background of Romantic Creations?
Maria: I have been in the business of customizing wedding dresses here in Nashville for about 26 years. In 1994, I decided to open up my own store (in Hillsboro Village), putting me in retail for 18 years, now. Romantic Creations has been quite popular since I started out here; it spread by word of mouth with little advertisement, so I’ve found that many Nashville brides love the customizing option. I’ve been designing all my life, and it makes me happy to offer my own collection to brides!
How did you come into the business of designing dresses?
Maria: Well, when I was 5 years old, I started making dresses for my dolls, which I still love to do from time to time. Then when I reached 11, I made my first real dress for myself. I continued and began making dresses for my close friends, too. Then, when I was 15, I made my first dress for a bride—she was a friend of mine and I was a bridesmaid. It’s been the only job I’ve had since. Truly, I have a sincere love for making dresses that’s been present from the beginning. In fact, growing up, I often upset people unintentionally when they wanted my company, because all I really wanted to do was sew and make dresses.
Also, I am originally from Colombia, and in South American culture, it’s tradition for a bride to have nearly everything custom made. While that option is exclusive here in American culture, in Colombia, it is simply an aspect of the event. With that said, when I’m creating wedding dresses, I’m fulfilling part of who I am and part of where I come from.
What’s the most important part of the process for you when a bride is having her wedding dress customized?
I walk the bride through everything, and consider doing that the most important part of my business. It’s her day—her dress. From the time that I sketch the design, to selecting the fabric, to adding details, I am developing a trusting relationship with her.
What type of bride is the customized dress option great for? Do you see commonalities amongst the brides you serve?
Maria: All styles of brides come to me for their dream dress; each with their own distinctive fashion seeking the perfect silhouette that flatters both their form and vision for their big day chooses the customized option. A customize designed gown is perfect for brides who want something that no one else has—something that only they will walk down the aisle wearing, uniquely fashioned for their wedding.
About how much time is required in order to create a customized wedding dress?
Maria: Well, that would depend on the style and fabric. I would say that brides come to me anywhere from a year to three months prior to their wedding.
Is there a price range for your wedding dresses?
Maria: My prices range from $1600 to $5,000 with a guarantee you’ll leave Romantic Creations with the perfect dress.
Can you tell me some of your favorite details you’ve use in your customized wedding dresses?
Maria: Naturally, I always love the romantic styles. I love all things lace, and appreciate the finest fabrics from around world. All of my fabrics are high quality; nothing is synthetic. It’s important to me to let brides breathe in their dresses. I can do both traditional and contemporary dresses, but I always love the dreamy look.
Are there some particular things a bride should know when considering having her wedding dress custom made?
Maria: A bride needs to be sure that she is comfortable with the person she is working with and confident about her selection. When I see a bride who is hesitant about having a dress custom made, I always encourage her to wait a bit longer. Also, I advise brides not to come to me too early, because styles and preferences may change; 1 year is usually the soonest that I recommend and, to trust that I can bring their vision of their dream gown to life. Designing is an art form that I love and I feel privileged to be a part of their wedding celebration.
Romantic Creations is located at 2131 Belcourt Ave, Nashville, TN 37212 in Hillsboro Village. Maria can be reached at 615-292-1535.
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Posted by Betsy-Intern |
Filed under: Attire - Bridal Gowns, Wedding Dresses & Accessories0 comments »
Thursday, April 5, 2012
Spring is here! We all know that when flowers bloom and the sun comes out, the wedding world thrives, bringing a warm joy amongst your guests as they look forward to your special day. I spoke with Rita from Down South Delights regarding reception menus to go along with this glorious weather. In our lovely conversation, she let me in on some trends and fun tips for brides to embrace with the sunshine!
Enjoy a southern-style brunch board! Yum! Perfect for a mid-morning wedding or late night snack.
What are fun menu ideas for a spring/summer wedding?
Rita of Down South Delights: People incorporate more fresh items for their spring/summer wedding receptions than they typically would during the colder months. We see a lot of fresh vegetables, fruits, and salads as opposed to heavier selections. There’s also a trend of bright, colorful foods, as well!
Go Italian with tomatoes, cheese, and vinaigrette.
Are there ways a bride should incorporate her theme into her reception menu for spring/summer?
We usually avoid encouraging a bride to color coordinate her menu; it’s complicated to match food, and it’s not as big of a deal as other details, but bright colors for spring/summer are always a hit, along with lighter portion options. For instance, if you’re doing an outdoor reception, many people enjoy a modern, tea inspired vibe with selections like finger sandwiches and fruit.
Not your typical fruit skewers...Mix it up with strawberries and cheese or watermelon and scallop ceviche.
How is a menu for a spring/summer wedding influenced by the location?
If the wedding is outside, people typically stay away from heavy meals and choose light hors d'oeuvres instead, possibly as a brunch. We see things like colored lemonade and grilled meats—upscale picnic food that can fall under a backyard or garden theme. Indoor receptions, however, still maintain full meals as they do throughout the rest of the year.
Lots of drink choices: standard lemonade with fresh fruit (color it for more fun!), DSD's popular fruit tea, and more.
What do guests love to see on the menu for a spring/summer wedding?
People love homey foods that taste like a picnic—fried chicken, gourmet BBQ, pasta salad, fruits, fresh vegetables—things like that; people go for anything that makes them want to be outside!
Who can pass up corn on the cob?! It's the perfect picnic-style food choice.
Is there a difference in price of food during this season compared to the fall or winter months?
People usually spend a little more money in the spring because wedding dates are in the premium. They’re willing to pay more in order to claim what they want as soon as possible, since more people get married during the spring and summer.
Tea time smoked salmon canapes - you can be that fancy.
How can a bride have fun with her spring/summer reception menu?
I love to see people use selections from the Farmer’s Market that look fresh and pretty. The brightly colored food is always a hit with us because we’re able to embellish them in the table design more creativity. Also, we offer fun options like a watermelon bar, a create your own soda bar, and an ice cream sundae buffet—all perfect for a sunshine wedding reception!
All images courtesy of Down South Delights.
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Posted by Betsy-Intern |
Filed under: Cakes & Food0 comments »
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
A delicious new trend has caught on with the wedding cake world -- a cake buffet. Now, every guest can have their cake and eat it too! I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Vicki, owner and baker of Signature Cakes, about the cake buffet’s advantages for your reception. Read on to see how layer after layer will delight your guests!
Photo by Zach and Jody - Gray Photography
Can you tell me how the cake buffet works?
Yes! Signature seeks to develop such distinct cake flavors that no other desserts are necessary at your wedding. The goal is for you to have a dessert bar simply by cutting up your cake! At Signature, we allow a 4-tiered wedding cake to have three flavors, and the top layer can be the bride and groom’s favorite to save for their anniversary.
I typically encourage the bride to ask her caterer, or whomever is cutting the cake, to cut the slices thinly and arrange them on a table with place card descriptions for each flavor.
Top and Left Photo by Anna Hedges Photography; Right Photo by McLellan Style
What about flavors? Do you offer a wide variety?
Signature offers 12 different gourmet layers for tasting. We’re always bringing in new flavors because I can customize for a particular bride. I’m a baker at heart, so I’m happy to create a flavor, try it out on friends and family, and then share it with the bride! Then, the new flavor becomes a Signature flavor option.
Our most recent creation, for instance, is a Hazelnut Milk Chocolate Cake, better known as Nutella! Look for it at the Pink Bridal Show in March. The thing to remember is that wedding cake should be the best cake you’ve ever had; yes, it’s important that it looks pretty, but you want it to taste delicious for your guests!
Photo courtesy of Signature Cakes by Vicki
Is the cake buffet option more expensive than having an entire wedding cake that’s one flavor?
No, there’s no extra charge for flavors per layer, even though oftentimes certain flavors prove to be more expensive than others. I want this option to be accessible to brides!
Do you find that the cake buffet is a hit at receptions?
Yes! I’ve always found it to be a huge hit! Who wouldn’t want a choice? Also, brides and grooms are increasingly playing the parts of host and hostess at receptions these days, so this option shows that they care about their guests’ different preferences.
Cake Flavor Photo by Ace Photography
Is there an issue with a certain cake flavor running out at receptions with the cake buffet?
This is never really a problem, and certainly not a bad thing. Guests never complain about certain flavors being extra popular; they just always enjoy talking about which one they liked best. A guest would be disappointed if one flavor was good and another wasn’t, but every layer is delicious, so problems are avoided. Rarely does a layer run out at a reception, though this may be the common misconception regarding flavors per layer.
What would you say are other advantages of the cake buffet?
Well, in addition to providing your guests with a choice, the cake gets eaten up! So often from receptions, brides and grooms spend an enormous amount of money on a cake that doesn’t taste good, so it’s barely touched. These cakes look beautiful and taste delicious!
Are you convinced now that a cake buffet is right for you?! If so, then contact Vicki at Signature Cakes by Vicki and make sure to tell her you heard about her on ABG!
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Posted by Betsy-Intern |
Filed under: Cakes & Food, Inspiration & Trends0 comments »
Thursday, March 8, 2012
UPDATED 3/14 - Please note that the consignment sale starts March 15 following the Opening Night Benefit, which includes a cocktail time with a silent auction from 5-6pm. The sale will open at 6pm. You will be able to purchase items that night.
Calling all brides-to-be, wedding vendors and newlyweds!! You don’t want to miss Bridal Bargainistas' first event in Nashville! Make money off your wedding memorabilia that’s collecting dust or find sensational deals if you’re a bride to be.
I spoke with Angela who helps run the Bridal Bargainista event, and she let me in on the details. Be sure to get involved - it’s a wonderful opportunity to buy or sell all things wedding!
What are the event details
The Bridal Bargainistas event will take place at the Nashville Expo Center (aka TN Fairgrounds), located at 625 Smith Avenue. The event will kick off with an opening ceremony from 5 - 8 pm on March 15. The sale will run from 6-8pm on opening night. It will continue the following day, March 16, and will run from 9 am to 8 pm. It will continue from 9 am - 3 pm on March 17. If you are a newlywed, you can sell your items by registering them online now. If you are looking to buy, you can save the date and come ready to buy!
If you have items to sell, how does it work?
If you are looking to sell, you would become a consignor. You set the price via our website and if the item sells, great! If not, you come pick it up after the sale or we donate it automatically to Goodwill on your behalf. to learn more about consigning (selling) your items, visit our website, create an account, enter items, and then have your tags printed. You tag your items and then drop them off at the fairgrounds from 11 am - 7 pm during March 13-14.
Decorative items are an absolute hit at this event! Most of the time they go faster than dresses, so if you have any centerpieces, candles, linens, etc. don’t hesitate to donate those items! (Ashley of ABG adds - if you have dresses, donate them to Goodwill this week for their upcoming Goodwill Gala and receive a tax write-off.)
If you are looking to buy, what should we know about the sale?
Everything starts March 15. We’re having a cocktail party and silent auction from 5 - 8 pm on March 15, to benefit local nonprofit Thistle Farms. The sale will follow. The price to attend is $10 for the opening night, and the other days are free. Tickets can be purchased by emailing sale{at}bridalbargainistas{dot}com. Tickets may also be purchased at the door, but we encourage you to buy them online in order to avoid an additional line. Parking is $5.
All photos courtesy of the Bridal Bargainistas' Facebook Page
We love Thistle Farms too (their items make great bridesmaids gifts!) and we are all too happy to see them benefit from this great wedding event. We are so excited for the sale and we hope to see you there!
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Posted by Betsy-Intern |
Filed under: Bridal Shows & Events, DIY & Budget Wed Finds, Eco-Friendly Weddings0 comments »
