Love, Laughter, and EVERYTHING in Between: Day 19-Wedding Gowns

Brides come in all shapes and sizes so choose a dress that flatters YOUR figure.  Limit your options by selecting a silhouette that will accentuate your best assets and conceal those things we girls like to keep under raps.  If I had to give three simple tips I'd say:

Don't Rush!
Like buying a house or a car, this is a very important step in planning your wedding. There is no need to rush out and purchase the first gown you lay eyes on. Do some research! Have fun! Enjoy the process! Once you think you've found the dress, see when that designer is having their next trunk show.  That way you'll get the dress of your dreams with at least an additional 10% saved; which is likely only your tax but something off is something off! Please don't confuse not rushing with procrastination.  Wedding dresses can take six to eight MONTHS to be delivered, so if you wait too long you may be forced to pull from samples which will also limit your selection.

As Seen on TV - NOT!
I've been with many brides that were waiting on that tear jerking moment like they've seen on "Say Yes to the Dress".  Although it did happen for some, others were simply in love with the look they saw in the mirror, the bottom line fit their budget, and they were relieved this part of the process was over.  Doesn't mean it wasn't "the one" it just wasn't their natural reaction. Those that cried got married and believe it or not, those that didn't ............ got married too!

When trying on a gown; try it OUT!!
After you've sucked it in, tucked it under and gone to the "podium" and seen all angles, make sure you can move around in the gown. Unless you're changing into another more relaxed dress for your reception - you want to make sure that you can sit, walk around in, and most importantly DANCE in your gorgeous gown.

(photo credits: Simply Perfect Peace Events, VOE Photography, Johanna Johnson, Pinterest)
~Until Next Time
SimplySHAY

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. and Designs by Shay, the Blog "My Journey, My Way, My LIFESTYLE ~ Celebrating Love, Laughter and Everything in Between..." You or your brand interested in a review? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Love, Laughter, and EVERYTHING in Between: Day 18- Your Bridal Party!

Not a simple task by no means! 

Choosing your bridal party can be one of the most exciting parts of planning your wedding, but it can also be one of the most stressful. I've learned that the men are relatively easy BUT with women it's likely that drama will arise at one point or another. Here is my tip:  As a bride, the best way to avoid unnecessary drama is to exclude those that create it! 
~ENJOY THE PROCESS~

 

 

(Simply Perfect Peace Events, VOE Photography, Tanyia Koonce Photography)
Until Next Time
~SimplySHAY

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. and Designs by Shay, the Blog "My Journey, My Way, My LIFESTYLE ~ Celebrating Love, Laughter and Everything in Between..." You or your brand interested in a review? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Love, Laughter, and EVERYTHING in Between: Day17-Wedding Bouquet

Your wedding bouquet is an extension of you; a reflection of your personality.  Don't be afraid to step outside the box of ordinary!

~Until Next Time
SimplySHAY

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. and Designs by Shay, the Blog "My Journey, My Way, My LIFESTYLE ~ Celebrating Love, Laughter and Everything in Between..." You or your brand interested in a review? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Love, Laughter, and EVERTHING in Between: Day 15-Down the Aisle

It's the last few moments before one of the most important days of your life and you're full of nerves. The man of your dreams is anxiously awaiting your entrance; as your planner, I am doing any final tucking and fixing your veil. The makeup artist adds just a little more lip gloss, your dress is breathtaking and your bouquet is perfectly placed.  As I hand you to your escort you'll hear me say "This is the moment you've dreamt of, breath easy, take your time and relish in the beauty of what awaits you. Thank you for allowing me into your personal space; it was an honor and I don't take it lightly.  Live life out loud and love on purpose".

(photocredit: George Street Photography, voephotography.com)
~SimplyShay
Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. and Designs by Shay, the Blog "My Journey, My Way, My LIFESTYLE ~ Celebrating Love, Laughter and Everything in Between..." You or your brand interested in a review? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Love, Laughter, and EVERYTHING in Between: Day 11 - Managing Wedding Blues

Here comes the bride, all dressed in white... (or whatever you're wearing).  This is suppose to be the happiest time of your life; why are you feeling the blues?

How do you keep your nerves from getting frayed when your entire life is changing? The pre-wedding stress is all that comes before the wedding date. I tell my brides that it's natural to be stressed before the wedding; a wedding is 20 to 30 years of hopes and dreams all in a six-hour time frame. The wedding day represents unlimited possibilities and new beginnings; there's so much stress because the evening has got to be right....I get it!

Note that in additional to pre-wedding stress, there is also post-wedding stress. The couple often feels sad, and they don't mention it because they're embarrassed to think something is wrong after the wedding. The planning stages are intense, the wedding is a blur, the honeymoon is certainly over and it's back to life as you know it. It is important for couples to anticipate this, expect it and welcome the post-wedding blues as part of the package.

As far as pre-marital stress there are small occurrences like misspelled names, flowers not exactly as ordered, a few people that failed to respond to the RSVP and unhappy bridesmaids. These things will happen and they need to be factored into the wedding plans.

Know this.... Marriage is a risk. If things feel wrong, don't ignore them. You have to open up and talk. Sure, your planner will work out as many of the kinks as possible so trust that her professionalism will see you through some of the tough times.  

If you and your mate are experiencing more difficult issues, Chantelle Bittings is a licensed and professional therapist that can assist you and your future husband in figuring things out during pre-maritial counseling.

~Until Next Time
SimplySHAY


Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. and Designs by Shay, the Blog "My Journey, My Way, My LIFESTYLE ~ Celebrating Love, Laughter and Everything in Between..." You or your brand interested in a review? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Wedding Wednesday: Not Your Ordinary Furniture

As you are planning your 2013/2014 wedding -  kick it up a notch on your special day by having a more lounge, night club-style atmosphere at your wedding!  By adding some cool lounge furniture to your reception you'll be able to use the area for both the cocktail hour and later in the evening for your guests to relax as they dance the night away.

Don't worry about digging through your aunts basement, rental companies provide some sleek pieces of furniture for weddings.

Photo Source:  Lounge Appeal

Photo Source:  Walters and Walters

Photo Source:  Wedding Style Magazine

 

Live It Up - It's YOUR day!

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Wedding Wednesday Cocktail: Happy Halloween Bleeding Hearts!

It's no secret that Martha Stewart has some of the coolest ideas known to man.  While looking for something toyour fear factor and to wet you pallet, check out what I stumbled upon!

 

 

WHAT:

• 2 ounces dry vermouth
• 8 ounces premium gin
• ice cubes
• 4 Pickled Baby Beets, each placed on a cocktail skewer

HOW:

• Chill 4 martini glasses in the freezer or fill with ice water and let sit until frosty, about 5 minutes (pour out water). Add the vermouth, dividing evenly; swirl to coat the glasses, then pour out. Add gin to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously until chilled; divide among chilled glasses. Garnish each with a skewered pickled baby beet, and serve immediately.

(Source:  from Martha Stewart‘s Spirited Celebrations (Halloween 2009)


Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Wedding Wednesday Cocktail: Twisted Sweet Tea!

Fall is certainly in the air but for those of us not willing to let go of summer, why not enjoy a summer treat with a twist? 

This PIN led me to Green Wedding Shoes Blog so figured I'd share it with you.

WHAT:
-Sweet Tea
-A Twist
-Ice

HOW:
Responsibly!!!

Be sure to stop by their blog to see more photo's of this fabulous New York Fall Wedding.

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Wedding Wednesday Cocktail: Kinky ShayMOSA!

As we prepare for sweetest day, I thought it would be fun to host a Boudoir Session for ladies to get in touch with their inner tigeress.  I found this lovely liqueur KINKY at a local store and thought why not try it.  Light and tasty, this cocktail is perfect for bridal showers and as a signature drink at your wedding or special event.

This is what I put together and called it a KINKY SHAYmosa!

WHAT
Kinky Liqueur
Orange Juice
Champagne
Strawberries

HOW
Decorate, Pour, Enjoy

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Fun Friday Finds: Bridal Nails

Nail art is huge and as your big day approaches the last thing on your list may be what to do with yours.  I love the idea of letting your personality come through on your wedding day.  Understanding that everything is for everyone here are some ideas from www.cynfulnails.com and Clara that are far from simple.. yet beautiful.  ENJOY!

 

How do you feel about Bridal Nail Art on your big day?

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Wedding Motivational Monday: Guest Etiquette

Chances are if you're invited to someone's wedding you know there are rules :). Here are a few of the ones that simply make me cringe and guests seem to ignore.  However, follow these basic tips and the bride and groom will be thankful :) 

• Always RSVP: Wedding invitations have deadlines for a reason. The couple needs to make the seating chart, order the food, and get enough favors and programs, and all of those details take time to coordinate. Even if your RSVP is no, you should still send back the response card so they know yours didn’t just get lost in the mail.
• Read between the lines: Take note of who the invitation is addressed to. If you’re single and it does not specifically say and Guest or Plus One, unfortunately, that means you cannot bring a date. If it’s a close friend or relative and you have a special someone you want to bring along, feel free to ask the couple as soon as possible if there’s room for one more. However, be prepared the answer may be no, especially if the wedding date is approaching. If it’s a new boyfriend or girlfriend, you’ll have more fun without having to entertain them all night anyway.
• Bring a gift: This may go without saying, but one of the biggest wedding faux pas is showing up empty-handed. It is considered impolite to include where a couple is registered on the invitation, so check out their wedding website or ask around to find out where to shop. My parents have always said, around $50 per guest is the general rule of thumb, and large gifts should be shipped, so the couple doesn’t have to lug them home at the end of the night. Cash is always an acceptable alternative, but buying something that’s not on the registry means it will likely get returned. Oh, and btw, those bridal showers and bachelorette parties, they each require a separate gift, too.
• Be on time: My BIGGEST pet peeve!  The wedding isn't waiting on your grand entrance - Most churches and wedding venues start the ceremony at the exact time stated on the invitation, especially when they host multiple weddings on busy summer Saturdays. If you’re late, this means either missing the ceremony altogether, or being the person who opens the creaky chapel door as the bride is walking down the aisle. Allow plenty of time to get there and plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early.
• Have fun!: At the end of the day, all the bride and groom really want is to see their closest friends and family having a great time. Mix and mingle with some new people, take the flower girl for a spin around the dance floor, and take advantage of love and laughter that fills tha air. Weddings are some of the best parties around, so have a ball and the bride and groom will, too.

"Love Without End"

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Fun Friday Finds: "Standing" on your Promises!

I'm sure you've heard "buy a woman a pair of shoes and she'll walk out of your life".  Well, how about "write a note of love on the bottom of her wedding shoe and she'll stand on that promise until death you do part"...

For the groom that wants to have a little fun - this was cute...

"Love Without End"
Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.