-by guest blogger Minoo Hersini
Creative Director of Au Ciel Design Studio
With the recession being part of our lives today, most brides and grooms are quieter in the way they project and plan their weddings. However, it doesn’t mean that your wedding can’t be “au courant”. Here are some tips on how to be “in” for your 2010 weddings:
• Be selective of your guest list. Include close family members and friends.
• Find unique venues such as barns, art galleries, studios and homes instead of large, expensive ballrooms.
• Chose communal tables (long table seating) verses individual 8x10 tables.
• Use candles to substitute pin lighting.
• Stick to some classics. Utilize a clean, floor length and high quality cotton tablecloth.
• To add flavor, use elongated mirror runners and different textures to create a mood.
• Flowers are a key element for weddings. Work with creative floral designers to guide you through this process.
• Chose menus that will reflect your way of eating. Serve simpler and healthier dishes instead of heavy meals and have them sampled.
• Incorporate natural elements for table decorations such as leaves, bark, branches, grass and moss intermixed with flowers
• Create a signature cocktail. It is more fun and original than an open bar.
• Lastly, simple elegant weddings require good taste and vision. Consult with professionals for ideas.
For more information about design expert Minoo Hersini, visit Au Ciel Design Studio.
Looking Ahead: Wedding Reception Trends of 2010
Inspiration Board: Formal With A Twist
- by Brittiny
I really like this black, white, and green board. I call it formal with a twist because of the formality of the black and white, in addition to the lime green accents.
Brittiny Mays is Chief Designer at Amour Toujours Event Design. She is available for weddings in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee.
Your Wedding Day Memories On Film
- Lisa
You will find that your photographer and your videographer are two very important members of your wedding team. They will capture the images that serve as your memories. It’s very important that you are comfortable with both of these vendors - as being uncomfortable does show in the final product. When interviewing potential vendors, make sure that you like not only their style, but that they work well with you and with others - making the day successful for all involved.
In my experience, it seems that couples know, very well, the importance of great photographs, but are more iffy about the videography portion. In overwhelming numbers, they feel that photographs will be enough and they do not need video. I wanted to use this blog not only as a shout-out to all my videography friends, but also to stress the importance your wedding video in re-creating those special moments and events that take place on your wedding day. After all, you not only invest money - but more importantly, even more time in planning your wedding. The day goes so fast, it’s important that it is documented fully with professionalism and expertise.
I think the most value to a wedding video, is that it gives sound and words to the day. For me, that is what makes my video unique You can hear the words of your ceremony - the readings, the vows - the tears and smiles. You are able to see the movement of the dances. All of these real experiences help you to relive the entire day from start to finish. Additionally, you see and hear special things that you missed on your wedding day. I cannot express enough how quickly the day goes. Your wedding day is a whirlwind - and it seems that it ends as quickly as it started. Most importantly, you see and hear those friends, family members and loved ones who have given you the greatest gift - they have traveled near and far to be with you on your wedding day.
I interviewed two videographers about why the video portion is so important. Click here to read what they had to say.
Cocktail Series: White Sangria
This Labor Day weekend, we're trying to squeeze the last bit of sunshine out of Summer before it turns into something else. We spotted this fruity recipe for white sangria at MomTrends and thought it would be perfect. 
Ingredients:
2 small white nectarines-diced
I green apple-diced
1 bottle sparkling wine
1 3/4 cups apple juice
1 cup club soda
Add the fruit to a large pitcher. Pour in sparkling wine and apple juice. Refrigerate at least two hours (overnight is better) to draw out sweetness and aromas of fruit. When ready to serve, add club soda, and stir. Spoon some fruit pieces into glasses filled with ice, and pour.
Staying on Track at Celebrations
Is this a major challenge for anyone else? At times, I find that sticking to a regimen when everyone else is eating and having a great time a major downer. We recently celebrated a family birthday with lots of cake and goodies. And not for one day either. Oh, no. Our cup runneth over for several days afterward and we did indulge. But once I had the good sense to start spreading the wealth, by giving the goodies away, I managed to get back on track without too much damage to my overall goal. What do you do to stay on track during a big celebration or get back on track afterwards?
Of course this is part of the 50 Million Pound challenge we began earlier this year. I'd love to hear about how the rest of you are doing with your goals!
