We are so very blessed throughout the year and especially during the holiday season. I wanted to share some of the many things and people I am thankful for. I hope you will share your thoughts by commenting how thankful you are for those you love and cherish and the blessings you have in your life. Happy Thanksgiving!
- Andrew, without your love and support I could not be who I am today – Obrigado
- My parents, Jim and Leigh!! What amazing people you are- THANK YOU for your inspiration.
- Nick and Dana, I cannot imagine my life without my brother and am so thankful that Dana is in his life to make him smile.
EXTRA THANKS!
- All of my family and friends – THANK YOU for your always being there.
- I am thankful for our beautiful home, our Sophie and Molly and the determination Andrew and I both have to succeed.
- For my incredible team at Always Planned!! Who are more than co-workers they are my family.
- The many many blessings Andrew and I have as well as the many blessings of all of our family and friends- Life is Grand and we are thankful for every moment.
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Brides seem to come in two catagories. Those who “know” they need a wedding coordinator/planner/consultant and those who think they don’t.
Of course it is my opinion that every bride needs a consultant, at the very least a month-of-coordinator. Why? Well, let’s go over a few different scenarios.
1.) Your location (venue) provides a “free” coordinator? This is the most common misconception. The “free” or “included in your room fee” coordinator is great to have, and as a bridal consultant they can be a huge help. BUT, you need to understand that this person is usually just responsible for getting you and your bridal party down the aisle.
He/She will probably not sit out your favors, centerpieces, candles, etc. nor will this person fix your hair if it falls, get out the red lipstick that fell onto your dress, they will not steam your flowergirls dress or make sure you have something to eat/drink before get sick from nerves. This person is probably not going to “fix” the groom’s tux when the sleeves are too short/long or make sure he has a hankerchif for when a tear comes to your eye. There are several things that a location provided coordinator is not responsible for. Consider this when you are making arrangements for your beautiful wedding day.
2.) Your Mom/Sister/friend said she would LOVE to help you out that day! This is the worst scenario. While it is incredibly nice of this person to offer to assist, it is definitly not fair to them. Your Mother/Sister/Friend should be able to relax and enjoy the event like any other guest. If you really want to show appreciation for someone- do not give them a list of things to do before/after the wedding and reception. I promise they will feel appreciated if you have hired someone to take care of everything.
3.) Your budget does not allow for the luxury of a bridal consultant. There is often a misconception that a wedding planner or bridal consultant will cost way too much. While there are many different ranges of pricing out there, a professional bridal consultant will actually save you money. I know, it is hard to believe, but it is true. Some ways they are able to save are through discounts from preferred vendors, crafty ideas and creativity, understanding the market and making suggestions to help you choose the right menu, flowers and venue as well as by providing various decor items.
Your wedding should be an enjoyable experience. From the inital engagement to the first dance, an excellent bridal consultant or wedding planner will make those moments and memories an amazing experience to remember.
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At the most recent KY Meeting of the Association of Bridal Consultants I had the pleasure of visiting the 21C Museum Hotel in Louisville, KY.
This boutique property is part of the 9,000-square-foot 21c Museum, which showcases modern works from established and emerging artists. The lobby alone doubles as a 5,000 sq. ft. gallery, and one of the hotel’s signature features is a group of 40 giant red penguins the staff moves around the property. And these aren’t just any old penguins—they are part of a collection commissioned for the 2005 Venice Biennial. The penguins were everywhere, in the guest rooms, event space and even the bathroom. Oh did I even mention the stylish bathrooms – ranked 2nd best in the nation! This amazing place was even ranked 16th in Conde Nast Traveler in the Reader’s Choice Awards. You really MUST see this place for yourself, with the everchanging art gallery, the yummy food and unique atmosphere it is hard to believe you are in Louisville, KY.
Here are some additional details from their website.
For sales inquiries related to Group Room Booking, please call us at (502) 217-6300. To inquire about space or your next event contact Banquets/Catering Department at 502-217-6312.
Facilities
- More than 8,000 square feet of meeting and event space
- 7 meeting rooms
- Board Room with 42″ flat screen for presentations
- Contemporary art museum galleries available with agreement from 21c Museum Foundation
- Catering by Proof on Main
Business Services
- Full service 24-hour business center
- State-of-the-art audiovisual equipment
- Hard-wired and wireless high-speed Internet access, complimentary
- Professional catering & meeting services
- Mail and package services
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For as much as we love weddings – we absolutely adore honeymoons!
Your honeymoon should be a relaxing time to reconnect with your new spouse. Weddings become stressful very fast and the rush of emotions can be draining of your energy. Of course this does not hit you until after your fabulous wedding and reception is over. So be sure to plan ahead. Most couples choose a relaxing and exotic beach honeymoon destination while others choose a romantic retreat in the mountains. Whatever location you choose make sure you allow for some down time. Lazy days in with room service is what a honeymoon is all about, and be sure to schedule some special treats at a local spa.
You will take many vacations together after your wedding but you really only get one honeymoon. Make the memories count and splurge on some of the things you really want to do.
Here are some items you need to have in your luggage for a perfect honeymoon.
- Extra Cash – Small bills for tips
- Sunblock and Aloe Vera
- Photocopies of important documents (passport, license, ID, medical records)
- Contact list of important numbers
- A small first-aid kit that contains:
* Insect repellent (and anti-itch cream for the bugs that break through)
* Band-Aids
* Aspirin, Advil
* Antacid
* Antihistamine
* Diarrhea medicine
* Motion sickness medicine
* Tampons/pads (besides the expense, they can be hard to find outside the US)
- Lingerie, massage oils, candles and matches
- Comfortable clothes and shoes
- Bikini, Trunks, Beach towels, flip-flops and sunglasses
- Personal Hygiene Items
Oh and leave some room in your luggage for souvenirs!
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I had the pleasure of meeting Bill Zaspel at the Kentucky Bride Association meeting last week. What a delight he was and we look forward to working with him very soon! Bill wants to produce images that take your breath away and offers a unique set of albums, that I have yet to see in Kentucky.
As you know, we think a fantastic wedding photographer is a must-have for your fabulous event. According to Bill, 2009 Basic Package starts at $3,399.00 and Premium Package priced at $6,499.00. The Premium Package includes three albums the Beginnings Album, the Ceremony Album, and the Celebration Album. All three books create a collection that completely frames the ultimate wedding story. Proofs for all of his packages are delivered in boxed sets of 4X6s in addition to a private web site as well as a DVD. Other elements in the Premium Package include things like custom Thank You cards and a 16X20 framed print.
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Getting married is such an exciting time. Not only do you get to marry the man of your dreams in the perfect ceremony that reflects your personalities, but you get tons of nice gifts! I know that is not the reason you got engaged. But you have to admit that the very first wedding gift you receive is such an exciting moment. Almost like it makes it official – you have the ring and you have told your family and friends the big news but when that first beautifully wrapped gift to the future Mr. and Mrs. arrives is just makes it real.
After the romantic proposal and the big announcement the next step (after calling a fabulous wedding planner, of course) is setting up your registry. The ideal time to register is 6-8 months before your wedding, always keep in mind that seasonal items will likely not be around in 3-4 months so do not include anything seasonal, on clearance or discontinued. If you simply MUST have those items it is best to purchase those yourself or wait until you receive a gift card to your store of choice. Speaking of….
Where to register? I always suggest 2-3 locations and a variety of pricepoints. Everyone loves Crate and Barrell but not everyone plans on spending so much for a wedding gift. Also, if several of your guests will be traveling from out of town be sure to include at least one store with a location in their area or one that offers online shopping. In Kentucky, I always like Macy’s, Bed Bath and Beyond and either Target or Wal-mart. This selection should be easily accessible for your guests.
Another note: Do not register for multiple items, even if it is the same item at a different store. You may find something you would really love to receive, but two or three of those fab red “egg slicers” is just too many.
Keep in mind that your guests are just that- a guest, and in no way are they required to bring a gift. Always be appreciative no matter what you receive, and grateful that so many people love you and your fiance enough to share your special day.
Gift registries are also great for anniversaries, new homes and babies. Another reason we Love-it!
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Hey guys! This picture of Andrew and I has been entered into a photo contest and we need your vote.
Please go to http://zoombugphotos.com/blog/ and vote for photo number 3 – Fun Couple!
Thanks!!!
Voting ends NOVEMBER 15!
Also, if you are looking for someone to take your pics (or your families) Aseel does a fantastic job!
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Today is the day. Yes, it is finally here – the day where all of the political ads will stop running, hopefully.
Seriously we all have our own opinions about who can make a difference and what needs to be done. In order for you to complain about the economy/environment/schools/etc… you must vote. So tell your boss you’re going to make a difference, walk out the door and go vote!
Oh and wear your good shoes — I hear the lines are 2+ hours long.
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