Friday, September 27, 2013
Dawn and Jeff had a beautiful wedding but kept their marriage as their number one priority. That's what their wedding planner, Kelly of Kelly Dellinger Events, loved most about the couple. Thanks to Kelly, I learned all about this special couple, including how they worked with Cosmo Creations to ensure their live reception music was memorable and dance worthy!
I hope you enjoy learning about Dawn and Jeff, and their Nashville wedding, as much as I did.
Dawn & Jeff
Wedding Date ~ June 22, 2013
Ceremony Location ~ St. Augustine's Chapel at Vanderbilt University
Reception Location ~ W.O. Smith School of Music
Tell me about Dawn and Jeff.
Dawn and Jeff are one of the sweetest couples I've had the privilege to know and work with! They're big social dancers, love a great party. Dawn is a marathon runner and had the idea to do a "I Run to You 5K" the morning of their wedding, even! (The idea ended up getting ditched towards the end of planning, due to time limitations and the sheer chaos of orchestrating a huge event for 150 friends and family, but I loved the concept!) The couple wanted to maintain a "laid-back, traditional Southern tone" for their wedding, and I think they did an excellent job pulling that off.
What was their wedding style?
Relaxed, unpretentious, comfortable; family-oriented with an emphasis on Southern hospitality.
What 3 things were most important to the bride and groom?
The most important thing to Jeff and Dawn was that they celebrated their relationship with loved ones and gave their friends and family a fantastic guest experience. By providing transportation shuttles (charming trolleys!) for out-of-town guests staying in hotels in the city, guests didn't have to worry with Vanderbilt's limited parking or trying to hitch a ride after having a couple of cocktails. The couple prioritized spending money on delicious food, music that would keep everyone dancing until the wee hours of the morning, and a wedding planner who would ensure that they and their families didn't have to worry about a thing all day or night.
Do they live in Nashville or was it a destination wedding?
They live in Nashville, but the majority of wedding guests came from all over! Dawn's family is Virginia born and bred, and Jeff's is from upstate New York. It was a fun group - many guests went out honky-tonking at the end of the evening.
Why did they choose W.O. Smith for their wedding reception?
Dawn works for Vanderbilt and had fallen in love with the stunning cedar chapel for her ceremony. Reverend Lillian Hallstrand, a Chaplain at Vanderbilt's Medical Center, beautifully officiated the wedding. The W.O. Smith School had a similar natural aesthetic that carried out the
Wedding Team
Planner - Kelly Dellinger Events
Catering - B&C Catering
Music - Cosmo Creations
Photography - Tony Lopez Photography
Transportation - FADDS Trolleys
Florals - Geny's Flowers
Locations - W.O. Smith School of Music. St. Augustine's Chapel
Hair - Salon N'Fuse
Tuxedos - Street Tuxedo
Rentals - Liberty Party Rental
Officiant - Rev. Lillian Hallstrand
Where did they splurge and save?
Two of their major priorities were good food and good music! B&C provided some of their Southern mainstays: SCRUMPTIOUS pork ribs, miniature pies, sweet cornbread muffins and bacon-wrapped green beans.
Cosmo Creations is always my preference for reception DJs, and they were thrilled with how Josh kept everyone dancing all night long. One of Dawn's "non-negotiables" in her wedding planning was that under NO circumstances could she handle hiring a cheesy DJ. Cosmo Creations' Josh Rose was the perfect fit for their wedding - professional, personable, and charming without ever being over-the-top.
Both B&C and Cosmo are favorites of mine regardless of budget - Dawn & Jeff got exactly what they wanted without having to break the bank.
Perhaps the biggest splurge of theirs was a two-week honeymoon in Italy! They saved on wedding costs by opting for mini chess, chocolate, and pecan pies (as well as cupcakes) from B&C rather than getting a four-tiered production of a wedding cake. While they did have a little 6" round cake to cut (which they purchased at Publix the morning of the wedding!), the caterer's desserts stood out the most.
Ha! They were certain they didn't want a cheesy DJ. So glad they hired Cosmo Creations. I know they offer several services for weddings. What role did they play in Jeff and Dawn's day?
Cosmo Creations provided the DJ for their reception dancing, as well as sound equipment to ensure that Dawn's talented singer sister, Mary, could play keyboards and sing the father-daughter dance, a Stevie Wonder medley.
Cosmo's Josh Rose communicated directly with Dawn's sister Mary, a professional musician, to discuss their A/V equipment needs and provided exactly what fit the bill (in this case, microphones and a sound board). Mary and her beau had brought in their own keyboard and bongos. The couple rehearsed with everything hooked up and ready to go while Dawn and Jeff were taking photos after the ceremony, and everything went off without a hitch! Her rendition of "Isn't She Lovely?/You Are the Sunshine of My Life" was moving and an amazing way for Dawn to honor her talented family!
How was this approach to music made personal for the couple?
From time to time, especially working in Music City where practically EVERYONE is a phenomenal artist, close friends and family members of clients will perform during their weddings. I love collaborating with a reputable company like Cosmo in these situations, because I KNOW without a shadow of a doubt that every little thing will be taken care of. When planning my brides' weddings, I avoid situations where "surprises" may arise. Working with Cosmo gives me the peace of mind to know that even though I may not know the answers, they'll ask the right questions and come prepared enough to seamlessly flow through the evening.
What did you most love about their wedding?
Dawn and Jeff REALLY cared about their marriage first and foremost. It matters a lot to me when brides have incredible taste and love beautifully designed events, but I always want to see that the love behind the day is what permeates every last detail the most. They might not have cared terribly much about having an elaborate wedding cake, but their love was palpable. That to me is more lasting and meaningful than a zillion Pinterest details thrown together haphazardly. Focusing on throwing a fun and comfortable party for guests, honoring your heritage and family, caring most about the ceremony and not sweating the small stuff? Recipe for nuptial success.
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Posted by Ashley of Ashley's Bride Guide |
Filed under: DJ, Band, Lighting + Transportation, Real Nashville Weddings, Reception Entertainment, Photo Booths,
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Thursday, September 19, 2013
Nashville's 12th Annual Enchanted Brides Show at Cheekwood was another great opportunity to meet top-notch wedding resources. Listing them all would be a feat, but for those of you who missed some of the booths or were unable to attend, here are my 15 favorites.
1) Arzelle's Bridal - arzellesbridal.com
I swooned when I saw this simple but elegant gown at the Arzelle's booth. Isn't it a beauty? The other gowns were equally exquisite but this Marchesa was my fave. See these gowns and more at their salon on West End.
2) Wedlock Images - wedlockimages.com
Wedlock's photographic style is crisp, sleek and akin to magazine-style. Their work appeals to the edgy, modern bride who is getting married here in Nashville or is taking Wedlock to her destination wedding. It was great listening to co-owner Donice chat about Nashville venues she loves. (Great insight: You may want to talk to photographers before you book your venue!) She also told me about a new, farm venue near Murfreesboro, Events at East 96. Heard of it?
3) Classic Party Rentals - nashville.classicpartyrentals.com
Classic's inventory for Nashville weddings and events is massive. I visited their warehouse one time and they have just about everything you need. This tablescape is just one idea of many that they can help you design.
4) West Meade Wine and Liquor - westmeadewines.com
West Meade was a new find. They offer liquor, beer and wine in cases for weddings and events. This is a great way to save money if you decide on a venue like Houston Station, which allows you to bring in your own beverages.
West Meade also offers a bar registry for those who have everything they need but would appreciate a well-stocked bar! You know who you are. No judging. :)
5) Dulce Desserts - dulcedesserts.com
Juanita! I've known Dulce Dessert's owner and cake artist since I first started in weddings in 2006. (Wow!) She was one of the first wedding pros I met. She's always been sweet to me and her cakes have always been inventive and consistently scrumptious. I can never, and I do mean never, pass by her booth or store without being tempted to indulge. If you have not tasted her cakes, you simply must. Our blog intern Laurie had Dulce cupcakes for her wedding. Without a doubt - she loved them!
6) Designs in Paper - There is no doubt in my mind that owners Steve and Donette can create anything with paper! You really have to meet with them to see some of the previous wedding paper goods. They take pride in creating paper products that are custom to each engaged couple. At the bridal show, they shared many invites that were printed in white ink. You read that right, white ink. This chalkboard flyer will give you an idea of what they can do. They also print on fabric; think burlap looking fabric, for a rustic wedding. Lovely!
7) Capital Theatre - capitoltheatretn.com
This was a new find. The theater is located in Lebanon, TN and can accommodate all bridal events, from showers to receptions. Their spaces are very unique, ranging from an auditorium to an attic.
8) Street Tuxedo - streettuxedo.com
Street Tuxedo keeps a pulse on what's hot for grooms. For outdoor weddings, peach and khaki pair well. Sangria is a fun new color that can add a pop to a classic wedding. Neither of these work for you? Street Tuxedo has hundreds of swatches to match your color palette and several suit/tuxedo styles to complement your groom's style.
9) Geny's Bridal - genysbridal.com
Geny's is a Nashville staple. They offer three floral options: 1) wholesale flowers for floral designers, 2) retail flowers for DIY brides and 3) full service floral design for brides. Geny's recently added bridal gowns to their inventory in order to provide a more one-stop service for brides. They carry several exclusive lines and accessories. I had no clue they launched a bridal boutique. Their gowns are gorgeous!
10) A/P Couture - 615-545-2742
Alain Patterson, the owner and lead designer, creates custom veils for fashion-focused brides.
11) 2Travel Anywhere - 2travelanywhere.com
Carlie's a delight. She is a honeymoon specialist and helps engaged couples plan their honeymoon vacations at no cost to them.
12) Michael's Cafe & Catering - eatatmichaelscafe.com
They had me at banana pudding. I was told it was Michael's grandmother's recipe. Thanks grandma! It was absolutely delicious. Michael also served mac and cheese and BBQ chicken. Assumed southern cuisine? You are correct. And, based on the food they served at the show, they know what they're doing.
13) Elizabeth Jean Photography - elizabethjeanphotography.com
Elizabeth Jean does great work. I discovered her work this summer after seeing photos from a styled photo shoot at the Nashville Zoo (which we will feature very soon). It was great putting a face with her high-quality work. Be sure to visit her website to see her portfolio.
14) Grand Avenue - grandavenueworldwide.com
Transportation for the bridal show attendees was provided by Grand Avenue. It was posh! If you have a large bridal party or family that you want to ensure is easily transported (in style) between your bridal events, Grand Avenue should certainly be on your list.
15) Stay tuned. I'll share it on Friday.
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Posted by Ashley of Ashley's Bride Guide |
Filed under: Bridal Shows & Events, Cakes & Desserts, Florals, Details & Design , Grooms, Groomsmen & Tuxedos , Honeymoon and Post Wedding, Invitations & Paper Goods, Luxury Nashville Wedding Finds, DJ, Band, Lighting + Transportation, Wedding Resources,
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Tuesday, July 30, 2013
On Monday, we featured the faux wedding ceremony from The NotWedding bridal showcase. Today we are back with more!
The Reception
The faux wedding ceremony was followed by a first dance and lots of dancing, incliuding the Wobble! We were treated to a very popular dinner buffet, refreshing drinks, champagne toasts, snacks. The entertainment continued with a photo booth, cake cutting and a send off at the end of the night.
In a separate room, bridal show guests had the opportunity to enter the "Tunnel of Love", where we had a chance to meet the vendors who helped with the production of The NotWedding.
The wedding vendors
After taking in the sights, sounds and tastes, we felt it necessary to give special recognition to:
Emily O. Holmes | Emily designed the sweet invitations and RSVPs for this faux wedding.
Regalo Design | Damon and Sarah Goude and their team created the soft and romantic floral and moss backdrop and several gorgeous table centerpieces.
SOULflowers | Jessica Davis Fell arranged an amazing candlelit aisle as well as various table centerpieces through out the reception area.
Stockroom Vintage | Elizabeth Ulrich-Fanguy and her team showcased multiple rustic driftwood table centerpieces and displayed their new mid-century modern pieces in the vendor room.
Go Modern Vintage | Becca and Jessie crafted fun table centerpieces using local brew growlers to hold fresh flowers.
Street Tuxedo | The Street Tuxedo crew made sure the groom, his groomsmen and the ushers were dressed for the occasion in ceremony appropriate tuxedos, complete with custom neckwear by Otis James.
The Bride Room | The Bride Room provided the bride’s breathtaking lace ceremony gown and flirty reception dress, as well as the bridesmaids’ flowing dresses.
Lindsay Coletta | Lindsay Coletta handcrafted the bridal party bouquets and the groom’s party boutonnières, which complemented one another perfectly. She also arranged a sample reception table, set up in the center of the ceremony/reception room.
DJ Dan | DJ Dan provided the music that kept the party dancing well into the night. With a mix of current dance songs, romantic love songs and old rock ‘n’ roll there was something to bring everyone to the dance floor.
The Majestic Photo Booth Company | This one goes without saying – Who doesn’t love a photo booth?! Your booth is always a hit Majestic!
Savor The Flavor | Savor the Flavor cooked and served up some delicious southern cuisine for bridal show attendees to enjoy at The NotWedding reception.
Dales Fried Pies | Dales Fried Pies featured scrumptious fried pies in an assortment of flavors. We tried the apple pie (which was heart shaped) and it was absolutely divine.
Savida Sangria | Savida Sangria was served through out the ceremony and reception as the refreshment of choice.
Creative Crumbs | Abby of Creative Crumbs baked and designed an amazing wedding cake that fit the theme of The NotWedding perfectly.
The NotWedding was an amazing experience and it was great to see so many local vendors working well together. This speaks volumes as to what a friendly atmosphere the Nashville wedding industry is.
Great job to Callie Murray and team on your first Nashville The NotWedding bridal show event – here’s hoping for many more to come!
Lovely photos captured by {Declare} Photography. You can also view our candid photos and videos from the event via our Instagram feed, instagram.com/ashleysbrideguide.com.
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Posted by Intern Laurie |
Filed under: Bridal Shows & Events, Cakes & Desserts, Florals, Details & Design , Inspiration & Trends, Luxury Nashville Wedding Finds, DJ, Band, Lighting + Transportation, Photo Booth, Photography, Rentals,
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Monday, July 15, 2013
Last week, I received the following press release from Cosmo Creations:
"Cosmo Creations launches new website. Get to know our expanded team of creative professionals.
July 10, 2013: Whether you’ve worked with us before or haven’t had the chance yet, the team at Cosmo Creations is excited to launch our modern, interactive website. We’ve grown to provide improved and thorough service for our expanding business, so of course we had to update our website and information!
At our new site, cosmocreations.com, you’ll find all (and probably more) that you need to know about our services, our band of rocking DJs and attendants, and just how we can help you throw the best party your client could imagine - including custom monograms, memorable lighting and fun photo booths...
...We hope you enjoy our new site: like us, it’s a bit irreverent, still professional, and a lot of fun. We can’t wait to hear from and work with you."
I checked out the site myself and it's awesome! It takes the guess work out of choosing a DJ, photo booth or lighting team. Instead of wasting time calling to find out basic info, Cosmo Creations has simplified everything by providing 3 important features that help you quickly decide if you want to meet or hire them:
1) Do you like us?
The high-energy photos, the lively team bios and the clean design of site tell a consistent story: We are hip, event professionals who love to party and keep our parties classy and fun. If that's the vibe you want for your wedding, Cosmo Creations wants to hear from you.
2) Which services do you need?
Cosmo Creations offers professional DJ services and a whole lot more, so I'm glad they list their menu of wedding service. The list helps you see all they can do for your wedding. As long as I've known them, I didn't realize they offer ceremony music but it totally makes sense. I also didnt know they offered karaoke or monogram lighting!
3) Are our rates in your budget?
You can find out exact rates for each service. There is no guessing. Thank you!
Knowing all of this upfront saves every busy bride so much time. Gotta love a considerate company!
Cosmo Creations has 2 Tennessee locations, Nashville and Cookeville. You can see their new website, services and rates, visit cosmocreations.com.
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Posted by Ashley of Ashley's Bride Guide |
Filed under: DJ, Band, Lighting + Transportation,
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Thursday, June 27, 2013
Are you a procrastinating bride? Are you surprised with a little extra in your wedding budget? You are in luck! Cosmo Creations just announced a sale just for August brides and grooms.
Receive 10 free up-lighting fixtures with purchase of any wedding DJ package
$100 off any photo booth package
To learn more about the Cosmo Creation team, read our interview with owner Brent a few months ago. To snag these August specials, contact Cosmo Creations at 931-265-2934 or via email.
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Posted by Ashley of Ashley's Bride Guide |
Filed under: Contests, Giveaways, Specials, DJ, Band, Lighting + Transportation, Photo Booth,
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