Less Stressful Wedding Planning

Here are some of our top tips for making it through the wedding planning process without stressing yourself out.

1. Hire a wedding planner! Seriously, hire a planner ladies and gentlemen. We have done this hundreds of times and can help guide you in all of the decision making. Many brides and grooms we meet, come to us close to their wedding day because they relied too heavily on their mothers, aunts, sisters etc. to take care of major details. Remember, most of those people are playing a significant role in your wedding day, let them enjoy it.  Wedding planners will not only be with you during the planning process but will help your wedding day run smoothly and put out any fires that may arise.

2. Accept that fires with arise. There will always be something that doesn't go as expected and that's ok.

3. Be prepared. There are things that can be planned ahead for. Such as the weather. If your wedding will be held outside, reserve and extra tent to have the ceremony in case of rain. Is your wedding during the warmer warmth, make sure to reserve portable fans.

4. Don't overbook yourself the day of your wedding. In short, don't schedule a manicure, pedicure, facial and plan a large brunch. Focus on hair, makeup and relaxing.



5. Don't be tempted to drive past your wedding venue to see how it is going. More than likely you will see the staff preparing and it will look nothing like you had envisioned. Wait for the big reveal, it will be worth it.

6. Take time the week of the wedding to spend alone time with your fiance. Reconnect and remember why you spent months getting to this point.

7. The last bit of advice is so important! This is great advice from an article from RealSimple.com. You can't control everything. Zippers will break, flower girls will cry, and what matters is the marriage, not the height of the centerpieces. As the bride, you drive the mood. It won't matter if the storm of the century is sweeping through-if you're all smiles and thrilled to be married the love of your life, the guests will have fun too.

Selecting a Photographer Tips

One of the most important vendors that Bride and Grooms look to hire is a photographer. It is important to meet with different photographers to see their work, to see if your personalities match as well as their price point.

Before meeting with the photographer, make sure to look up reviews and speak to friends and family who may have used them in the past.

Make sure to communicate the most important photos that you want the photographer to capture. Also communicate when you want to stop formal photos and start with candid shots.

Lastly, a signed contract stating services hired for, start and finish time as well as must have photos is strongly recommended.

Real Wedding-Caitlin & Jody

21 Sep 2015

By Kara Smolenyak Posted in Highlight, Wedding film 

 Caitlin & Jody – Cannot Slip Free

The chicken falls in love with a buzzin’ bumble bee. Now that’s an unexpected match made in Halloween heaven.

   

More than four years after a Halloween party brought two brilliant minded people together, Jody popped the question on Cumberland Island – an island inhabited by wild horses…and snakes. Which leads us to the big day that we were more than humbled to capture for the wonderful pair.

Meet Jody, a mix of geographically & programmatically mad genius – and Caitlin, a delightful and sweet woman whose hobbies include teaching Sunday school and has an admirable knowledge of Disney movies.

This was an incredibly gorgeous wedding that took place on Jody’s family Vineyard – The Vineyard at Thornton. The bouquets and floral decor were made up solely of gypsophila – a simplistically elegant choice.  The couple delivered their intellectual and deeply romantic, custom vows in a lovely ceremony on the vineyard. You will swoon at the vows that Jody delivers to Caitlin. Poetic, vibrant, and beautiful. He sounds like a novelist reading to his muse. And the utter bliss that exudes from her face and adorable smile as he reads them to her will melt your heart. Swooon. 

   

The couple wanted to give each other something before the wedding – but they wanted to do so in a way where they could interact without actually seeing each other. Caitlin wanted the first time Jody saw her to be when she was walking down the aisle – no exceptions. She wanted it to be the most special it could be. So, we brainstormed and came up with the idea of a door divider. Caitlin hid behind a half opened door, and we directed Jody to come in only so far so that their hands could touch and they could exchange their cards. It made for a beautiful shot and only exemplified the anticipation of saying “I do.” It is honestly one of the sweetest things that I have ever witnessed.

   

And wait until you see the shot of their first kiss. Stunning.Caitlin & Jody found us through their sister and brother-in-law. They had attended a wedding that we filmed a while back – Lauren & Kristian’s. They loved how we embody the day for both the bride & groom. We were totally flattered and ecstatic to capture their wedding, too! Their story is definitely worth a listen.

Get to know the chicken & the bee: To view Caitlin & Jody's video, CLICK HERE http://www.clicksparkfilms.com/caitlin-jody-cannot-slip-free/

Blog Credits: Click Spark Films
Tagged: Baltimore video production, Baltimore videographer

 

Choosing Your Beauty Team

Most brides not only envision their wedding dress but also how they will look on their special day. From up do's to veil or no veil, there are many details to work out on the beauty end. That is why it is so important to bring in professionals to help you not only decide on your look but to provide their services on the day of your nuptials. Here are some tips on finding the right beauty experts for you!

• Schedule consultations and trial runs with both hair stylists and makeup artists. Make a Pinterest page to share, or bring pictures of looks you like.

• Be clear on what you want. If you don't like wearing a lot of makeup or want a glamorous up do, make sure to communicate that with each vendor. A professional stylist will want you to feel comfortable and beautiful on your day!

• Check references and reviews. An experienced hair stylist and makeup artist will be happy to show you their portfolio and share comments from happy customers.

• It is important to have a contract that states what services you will be receiving, who will receive them and the amount of time you have contracted the vendors for.

Unique Reception Layout

When you want your reception to stand out from the rest, choosing a unique reception layout is a great way to do just that. One thing to keep in mind is the comfort of your guest. Do they have enough room to move? Does the table lay out work with the venue? Does the layout give easy access to the servers? Your planner and your venue point of contact can work with you to make sure your vision is brought to life.

U-shaped Layout

X-Shaped Layout

One Long King's Table

The Do's & Don'ts of a Planning a Small Backyard Wedding

During a discussion between you and your fiance, one of you mention having a backyard wedding. There are many things to consider before making that final decision.

1. Hiring a planner is a must when planning a backyard ceremony/reception. There are many details that need to be handled and an experienced planner can make sure that everything runs smoothly during the planning process as well as the day of the event. A planner can also guide you in selecting the right vendors and to help keep cost down.

2. Whether moving everyone inside in case of bad weather or renting a tent, having a plan B in place is a must.

3. Where will your guest park? Do you have the space to accommodate parking for 50-200 guests? Consider off site parking and renting shuttles to bring guest back and forth to wedding.

4. Renting port a potties is mandatory when inviting a large number of guests. One bathroom per 50 guests is usually best. 

5. The cake should be kept in a cool place or refrigerator especially on warm days and not left outside during the ceremony. It should be kept inside until right before the cake cutting. 

6. Heat can be very uncomfortable for guests and damaging to your food. Consider shaded areas and/or tents for cocktail hour and serve cool refreshing drinks and appetizers.  

7. Make sure to provide enough lighting if the ceremony and reception are held in the evening hours.

Unique Registry Ideas

If you are couple getting closer to your wedding date, you might be thinking of a gift registry. And if you are a couple who already have a coffee maker, dishes or enough hand towels and would like to have a more interesting or unique registry, here are a few ideas!

Charity

We have seen an increase in the amount of couples who ask guests to donate to their favorite charity in lieu of gifts. The couple simply includes the information on their invitation.

Etsy

For the couples who like unique, handmade gifts and would like to support small business, go to the place where you can find it all. Couples can simply make an account and click away!

Gift Cards

If you and your fiance don't want to lug gifts home after your wedding night or if you are not having a bridal shower, couples can opt to ask for gifts cards instead of an actual gift. 

Real Wedding-Pink Wedding Design

We love brides and grooms who come to us with a vision of what they want their wedding day to look like. This client wanted lots of bling and pink, and that's what she got! From the feathered table linens on the sweetheart table to the amazing bouquet, pink and sparkles set the tone at this beautiful event.

Brooch Bouquet

Fuchsia Feathered Table Linen For Sweetheart Table 

Fuchsia Napkins Pop Against White Table Linens on Guest Tables

Gorgeous Low Centerpieces 

Fuchsia Napkins With Rhinestone Holders 

Pink and Sparkles

Breathtaking Cake Display

Floating Candles Set The Mood 

Uplighting Can Change The Atmosphere Of Any Venue

Summer 2016 Trends

Although every year new trends are created, some last while others only stick around for a season. For the 2016 Summer wedding season, we will be seeing more personal touches and elements added to couple's wedding days, while romance and rose gold enhance the mood.

Colors

From sequin table linens to centerpieces, metallics have made a come back in a big way. While gold and rose gold have become bride and groom favorites, silver is not as popular.

Personal Touches

Adding personal touches has never really gone out of style but couples are becoming more creative on how to accomplish it. Bride's and Groom's are throwing destination weddings without leaving their state by adding in touches from their hometown or favorite city. Another way they are personalizing their event is having a theme such as Gatsby.

Guest Seating

Couples are moving away from round tables for reception seating and moving towards long banquet and square tables for a more intimate setting for guests. They are also choosing a lounge area complete with comfortable sofas and chairs for cocktail hour as well as the after party.

Flowers

Flowers have been a huge part of weddings since the beginning but the types of flowers and the elements in which they are incorporated have evolved tremendously. Couples are looking at in season flowers and have even started to add in food elements such as herbs, fruits and vegetables. Other popular floral trends include succulents, potted plants, ferns, lavender sprigs and branches.  

    

Real Wedding Brandi + Brandon

A Harlem Renaissance Wedding in Baltimore, MD: Brandi + Brandon

Credit: Munaluchi Bridal Blog

posted: April 27, 2016 / by Demara White

Brandi met Brandon at a birthday party for her cousin in March 2009, when his company was promoting a concert a popular club in Washington D.C. They began dating and by May 2009 the two made it official. However, 5 months later, Brandi accepted a position in Arizona and the two decided to continue their relationship long distance until Brandon relocated there in June 2011. The pair would continue dating for almost 4 years until one fateful night, November 14, 2014 to be exact, when Brandon planned to give Brandi the surprise of a lifetime. But not without a little help from both of their moms!

Brandon, who still lived in Arizona and Brandi, now back in Washington, D.C. after relocating in November, 2013, decided to work with his mother and Brandi's to plan her surprise proposal. A few weeks before, Brandon contacted Brandi's father asking for her hand in marriage. And under the guise of her mother’s birthday, Brandon worked behind the scenes to organize a dinner at The Chop House in Annapolis, Maryland, for herself and their parents. "I didn’t expect to see Brandon until the following week for the Thanksgiving holiday, so this totally eased any suspicions" shares Brandi.

That evening, as Brandi sat down to eat dinner with their parents, Brandon phoned her, around the time he normally did every night. When she picked up, she found a troubling voice on the other end, as Brandon explained to her that he was having a bad day. Yet he still encouraged Brandi to enjoy her meal and told her that he would talk with her later.

"Although I reluctantly hung up the phone, I became concerned about him, I began to excuse myself to call him back. His mother discouraged me and encouraged me to enjoy my meal." says Brandi. And of course she would, as she was in on the action too! "I reluctantly agreed. Moments later, I received a tap on my shoulder, when I turned around, there was Brandon! He kissed me and before I could ask what he was doing in town and at the restaurant, he dropped to his knee in front of the restaurant and our parents and asked me to marry him - I said yes!" says Brandi.

The man, who Brandi has always known as being "predictable" had gotten one over on her with this surprise, while also making the start of her holiday season all the more special!

Read on for more on this fun-loving couple who had a little assistance with flawlessly pulling off their Harlem Renaissance inspired wedding from a few of our coterie members! Members involved include photographer Henry Spencer of Memories of Bliss Photography, wedding planner Kay Fraser of Prestigious Occasions and designer Andrea Pitter of Pantora Bridal, who designed the brides wedding and reception look and the dress sported by the flower girl!

Bride: Brandi Miller
Groom: Brandon Carr
Occupations: Brandon: Special Events Coordinator, University of Maryland (Baltimore Campus),  
Brandi: Deputy Director, Leasing Center, Veterans Health Administration, Washington, DC
Wedding date: 3/11/2016
Wedding location: The Belvedere - Baltimore, Maryland

Describe your wedding dress. What was wedding shopping like for you?
My wedding dress was trumpet style with an ivory and gold embroidered overlay with Swarovski crystal beading on the bodice. The bottom and train were created with mesh and organza ruffles and hand-sewn ostrich feathers. Wedding shopping was a very exciting process! However, midway through , I learned I was a non-traditional bride. I didn’t want to wear white, and maybe not even a dress (my mother initially was not pleased). Additionally, I did not see anything on the rack available to me that I did not want to completely alter. Therefore, I decided to get my dress custom-made. The only issue was, I was running out of time.
 The normal time for ordering and receiving a dress was 8 to 10 months. Needless to say that having a custom gown made may require more time. It was 9 months until my wedding! I was blessed to have a conversation with Brandon’s cousin at dinner one evening, who recommended Andrea Pitter, owner of Brooklyn’s Pantora Bridal. A soon to be bride like me, she heard about her via Instagram and told me to visit her. Since I made regular visits to NYC to visit my family, I made an appointment immediately.

Andrea was a breath of fresh air! I was so pleased when she told me that it was possible to make my dress in the time allotted, and offered me the non-traditional custom design I dreamed of! Not only that, she took my vision from one major dress to a second look of a Neoprene and Sequin ivory and gold peplum top with a train and matching sequin pants! I looked forward to my frequent visits to Brooklyn from Washington, DC for the design process and fittings with Andrea and her team. They became more like friends than people I hired. I’m very grateful to them!

Quick Facts:
Loves: Bride: Shopping, Travel, Cocktails….(did I say cocktails?!)
Groom: Sports, Comic Books, Movies
Favorite TV shows
Bride: Walking Dead, House of Cards
Groom: The Flash, Walking Dead
Bridesmaids/Groomsmen gifts: 
Bridesmaids: Custom satin kimonos, feather hand fans, champagne and custom Pandora Bangles and Charms.
Groomsmen: Custom leather cigar cases, lighters and cutters and a cigar.

 

Favorite item on the menu: Thyme and Panko Oven Fried Chicken Breast with Chicken Veloute Sauce
First dance song: “Adore” by Prince and “A Couple of Forevers” by Chrisette Michele

Did you incorporate any culture into your wedding?
We incorporated the theme and spirit of the Harlem Renaissance into our African American ceremony. Very early on in the wedding process we encouraged guests to don 1930’s attire to events like the engagement party and later at the wedding. Being that the interior of our apartment building and The Belvedere was designed in similar fashion, it was very easy to make our vision come to life. Everyone was excited and enthusiastically obliged us!

What is your best memory from your wedding?
My fondest memory is seeing all of our family in one place sharing our love for each other! Our family came from far and wide to share in our happiness. It made us feel very special. With the help of Belvedere & Company Events (the event management company of the Belvedere Hotel and Kay (Kerrine) Fraser and her team at Prestigious Occasions, our love remained the focus as we partied the night away. The great weather was another plus as the forecast in Baltimore in March has been known to be in the 30’s with snow. To have an 80 degree day was unheard of! God smiled on us that day!

What is the best wedding advice you can give to engaged couples?
You will have the day that you expect to have. Do your part and trust the people you have hired to create your vision! Go to premarital counseling early, pray and keep those date nights. They will come in handy when the stress of the process takes its toll on you.

Vendors
Wedding Planner: Kay Fraiser, Prestigious Occasions
Photographer: Henry Spencer, Memories of Bliss Photography
Wedding Dress Designer: Andrea Pitter, Pantora Bridal
Flower Girl Dress Designer: Andrea Pitter, Pantora Mini
Bridesmaids & MOB/MOG Dresses: Whitney Adams, Stylist, Bella Bridesmaids Baltimore
Groom/Groomsmen Tuxedos: The Black Tux
Venue: The Belvedere Hotel
Flowers: The Flower Cart, Inc.
Cake: Jason Hisley, Owner, La Cakerie
Hair: Nakita Mackey, Ms. Nikki Styles
Make-up Artist: Blair Holland & Deborah “Deb” Smith (Assistant), Blair Alexa Beauty
Nails: Celeste Hampton (owner), Celestial Nails
Stationary/Invitations: The Office Gal via Carlson Craft
Shoes: Jimmy Choo, Net-A-Porter
Wedding Officiant: Reverend Alfred Bailey, New Psalmist Baptist Church
Music: DJ Schemes, No Gimmicks Just Schemes, LLC
Limo: Limos 4 Less