Nüage Mulberry Digital Art

A Black and White Damask Afair

2011-08-25T16:12:00.000-04:00

Kim Kardashian is not the only bride with black and white in mind for her wedding. Our latest bride, Sara, had her black and white vision before Kim K was even engaged, she also wanted damask to be the main focus. See pictures below of everything we created for Sara and Ryan's upcoming wedding.

I guess black and white is the new black!

Not Just Weddings...

2011-08-22T13:51:00.000-04:00

Nüage Mulberry is not restricted to just wedding invitations. You may have seen other celebratory announcements and coordinating pieces on our website. And now we have tapped into a new category of Bar Mitvahs and Bat Mitzvahs.

Just having finished a new order of Bat Mitzvah invitations, I had to share right away because this design can be used for pretty much any occasion you can imagine--its modern, its simple, and its fun!

July 4th Tablescape Signs

2011-07-05T14:49:00.000-04:00

In honor of my first 4th of July as a US Citizen, I created these signs for a red, white and blue--and another blue--gathering. These can be done for any occasion, in any color and almost any shape. Visit www.nuagemulberry.com and contact us for any paper product for your next event.

These custom printed napkin wraps are the perfect accent.

Cake Pops were done by Cakes by Meredith

Navy and White Menus and Place Cards

2011-06-17T11:00:00.000-04:00

Kate Fitzgerald, from I Do Details Events, contacted me because she needed menus and place cards for a dinner party she was hosting--The color theme: navy blue and white.

She shared the pictures with me and here they are, just for you! Thanks, Kate.

Sparkling Merlot Design

2011-06-15T14:28:00.002-04:00

This is one of our latest designs created for a super fab bride. She knew she wanted deep purple with silver accents and, voilá! here is the final result.

The cards are printed on a white pearlized linen card stock. The invite is mounted on a 6x6 deep purple back panel and then wrapped with a sheer purple belly band with their wedding logo printed in the middle. The envelopes are in silver to compliment the design.

So, this led me to create and inspiration board for a purple and silver wedding.

That wedding dress is to die for, isn't it? I also love how in the three images of the decor the dominating color is actually the grey or silver and the purple is the accent, absolutely stunning!

The Badgley Mischka shoes....nough said. I actually saw these shoes at Nordstrom on clearance a couple of weeks ago in pink, in blue, and in black. They are just as gorg as the pic, unfortunately they didn't have my size in any of the colors :(.

Inspired?

Dress: Modern Trousseau
Shoes: Badgley Mischka
Plate Setting and Table Images: Alante Photography
Flower Centerpiece: ideasinblume.com
Bridesmaids Dress: ele3events.com

Something Blue Inspiration Board

2011-05-18T16:51:00.000-04:00

I just recently designed a tan and blue wedding invitation set for a bride. She already had the blue picked out for her bridesmaids dresses and we took the design from there. This design galvanized this inspiration board, and I have to admit this particular blue is not very commonly used in weddings, as I came to learn while perusing online in search for wedding related images with these colors. Ironically enough, the stock color used in this invitation set is called 'Something Blue'. I mostly saw lighter blues or Tiffany blues, but I guess this one is what will make this wedding unique.

Very inspiring!!! Right? Love the cake pops--unfortunately I don't know who made these--totally in L O V E with the bird toppers, too adorable!! The cake details are gorge--beware of the adults only section if you visit Linzi's Cakes website, uncontrollable gasping and/or giggling may occur.

Ok, on to the actual invite, here are the deets... The main invitation is mounted on a tan metallic or pearl finished vertical pocket fold which is wrapped with a belly band with a printed 'Tile' pattern in blue and coordinating monogrammed tag.The pocket holds an invite for a second reception held on a different date and the RSVP for both events with a coordinating RSVP tan envelope. Everything is printed on a pearlized linen card stock.

Inspiration Board Images:

Invitation - Nüage Mulberry

Cake - Linzi's Cakes

Shoes - RSVP Ivana Blue Satin Shoes

Blue Birds Toppers - Country Squirrels R Us on Etsy

Flower Hair Pins - Miss Glory on Etsy

My Pronovias Encounter

2011-04-28T10:52:00.001-04:00

I just spent ten wonderful days in Europe, mostly in Barcelona, Spain. One of the first things I saw coming out of the airport was THE Pronovias Corporate Headquarters building. My eyes lit up and I thought to myself, "this is going to be good!", because I knew I was bound to come across at least one Pronovias store.

I tried to take a picture of the corporate building to include it in this blog but the taxi driver was going a little too fast, and all I got were dried up watermarks from the window with a very fuzzy building in the background.

Here's a little bit about the company's history. In 1964 the Pronovias company introduced its first prêt-à-porter bridal collection. In 1968, Pronovias opened its first specialty bridal store in Spain, a single location where brides could find the dresses and all the accessories they needed. For the next ten years Pronovias opened 80 more shops in Spain and started its international expansion throughout Europe. "It entered the American and Asian markets in the 1990s. It now has more than 3,800 sales points in 75 countries all around the world."

I did come across a Pronovias store right on Passeig de Grácia, regarded the most expensive street in Barcelona, also home to prestigious stores such as: Chanel, Carolina Herrera, Jimmy Choo and Hermès, just to name a few. I felt like I was in heaven, and it reminded me of how much I love their gowns.

One of my favorite designers for Pronovias is Manuel Mota. Below are two of my faves from the 2012 Advance Collection.

And from the 2011 Collection, Elie by Elie Saab...

GORG!!!

Their cocktail gowns are just as amazing as their wedding gowns. This navy blue one, named Helvetia, is one of the gowns displayed in their store window.

I just love the attention to detail that they put in to each of their gowns, makes me melt.

I think this one is my favorite.

I also spent some time in Southern France and Italy. In Cagliari, I stumbled upon this tiny little bridal shop named Carta, cute little store in a cute little town.

Etsy Find: Custom Bridal Flats

2011-04-08T13:14:00.013-04:00

You've got your fab Manolos for your wedding, and dancing the night away. Your feet are hurting so bad that all you can think of is going to your honeymoon suite and soaking your feet in warm water. But you don't want to leave your own wedding, so you borrow someone's flip flops or flats. Not ideal.

My suggestion--think ahead, and don't let this ruin your night. Yes, wear your 5 inch heels and make sure the photographer takes plenty of pictures of them, because they are just too fabulous. But also make sure you have some back ups.

I was scouring through Etsy when I found these oh-so adorable bridal flats by Hydra Heart.

Hydra Heart offers organic handmade 100% vegan eco-friendly shoes, unique custom bridal flats, clothing, and accessories. They also make super cute flats for girls, and how perfect would that be for your flower girl?

Don't they look so totally comfy and so totally adorbs?

Their turn-around time for bridal flats is 7-8 weeks so make sure you order with plenty of time.

P.S. This is not an endorsement from Hydra Heart. Its just me sharing my personal opinion :-)

Brooke Burke's White Dress

2011-03-30T11:13:00.000-04:00

I was watching Dancing With The Stars last night (yes, my guilty pleasure). And throughout the first segment they only shot Brooke Burke from the waist up.

My thoughts, "ooh, I think I like that dress. Awesome for a bride at her rehearsal dinner or something".

Unfortunately I couldn't tell what the material was or who designed it, but it looked phenomenal on her--from the waist up. Then we got a full shot of it by the second segment and I was so disappointed. It had these ruffles right on the hips that did not flatter the dress or her, it just looked weird to me.

Did you all tune in for the C.B. performance? (I can't even mention his name)

I tried not to watch it and my plan was to fast-forward through it, (DVR-I started watching 15 minutes into it) because I have banned him after what he did to Rihanna and even more after his latest behavior. But I did watch, and as entertaining as it was, I still think he's a d-bag and will continue to change the radio channel when his songs come up.

Back to the dress.

What are your thoughts?

Maybe if the ruffles were done differently or not at all, it would have been a very cool cocktail dress. But so not the case in my opinion.

Name This Design Contest

2011-03-17T15:27:00.000-04:00

This doesn't really scream St. Patrick's Day inspired, but does it have to? I've been working on this design for about a week now and just finished it today--so today I release to you my latest and possibly greatest.

But in the spirit of St. Paddy's I am wearing my little bit of green, this post is green, and hopefully I'll come across some green beer tonight. I'm not Irish by any means, but hey, any reason to do some celebrating, right? And everyone does.

So, back to my design. This one is totally different from what I've done in the past. It is printed on 100% recycled column card stock in a camel color which inspired the color combination with the navy blue. How do you like the peacock on the RSVP?

By the way, I haven't named this one yet. I could use a little help. Perhaps a contest? Submit your suggestions by emailing us to contact@nuagemulberry.com, and the winner will receive a set of 24 personalized cards.

A Barn Wedding

2011-03-16T08:44:00.001-04:00

Once again, Dustin and Diana of Bella Loren Wedding Photography, created magic. They captured the warmth and coziness of this barn wedding at the Leroy Springs Dairy Barn in Fort Mill, SC.

So different, so natural, so spectacular!

"We had a great time at the barn, as always. As wedding photographers we love the look of the images we get when we shoot at the Leroy Springs Dairy Barn. The lighting there is so different than anywhere else we shoot. Very warm and moody, just delicious. Our Bride was gorgeous, which doesn’t hurt either."--Dustin Ledo

Check out these sensational images of Meg and Jerry's Dairy Barn Wedding...

Cake - Ella Art

Lights (Loft) - A Garden Event

Rentals (Chairs, table ect.) - Creative Solutions

Leroy Spring's Catering
DJ Express
Officiant - Rebecca Nagy

Glamorous and Sustainable Gowns?

2011-03-10T10:42:00.000-05:00

Once again, my dear friend, Joanne, directed me to this fab designer based out of Portland.

Sara, from Love, June, designs vintage inspired, sustainable glamorous gowns for the bride and her bestest. Her style is wearable, modern and elegant and she hopes that her designs become modern heirlooms for the women of this century.

I have to say these are exquisite! I mean, look at these gorgeousness--so simple, yet so alluring.

You have to visit her Etsy Page so you can see even more beautiful gowns, they will captivate you.

A Crêpe Wedding Cake?

2011-03-08T12:36:00.000-05:00

This past weekend my husband and I went to the Charleston Wine + Food Festival with friends. Its our third time going to the festival and every time we have a great time and leave wanting more. Charleston, SC is an amazing town where everything is walking distance, with an abundance of exquisite restaurants and bakeries. Which brings me to this...

Charleston Crêpe Company was one of the participants at the festival and I was immediately drawn to this spectacular cake they had displayed--I looooo--oove crêpes, specially for dessert. This particular one was layered with 100 individually hand-layered crêpes and filled with vanilla creme. Isn't this the most unique idea for a wedding cake? Just add the same flowers you are using for your wedding and voilá! you got your self a delightfully unconventional wedding cake.

They do ship, and prices start at $90--pretty good, huh?

Elegant Beach Wedding Invitation

2011-03-04T14:01:00.000-05:00

So, you're getting married on the beach but want to steer away from the typical pastels. Here's a perfect way to announce to your loved ones that yours will be a different and sophisticated wedding, but still letting them know their toes will be hugged by the powdery sands of pristine beaches.

One of my brides, Kristie, contacted me because she wanted an elegant invitation for her destination wedding in Aruba. She knew what she wanted, and I took her vision to create this simple, but oh-so-amazing, beach wedding invitation suite.

A Fair Themed Wedding

2011-03-02T19:21:00.001-05:00

As most of you may already know, Nüage Mulberry was asked to create all the paper products for Charlotte Wedding Magazine's Feature Wedding in their latest Spring/Summer 2011 issue. The theme was an elegant fair theme wedding, or carnival theme wedding. It was a challenge so exhilarating that my brain was going a mile a minute during the initial meeting. And here's what I came up with...

Anne Bodnar Markey of Favor Me Events, along with the help of The Place for Flowers, took their vision and designed the perfect marriage of elegance and playfulness. The amazingly gorgeous cake was done by The Wow Factor Cakes, and WOW it is!

The photography was taken by Sara Brennan-Harrell of Whitebox Photography. La-Tea-Da Catering came up with the most upscale carnival food you can imagine, including chicken cordon bleu lollipops, fried chicken and waffles with chipotle butter and vanilla bourbon maple syrup, sweet potato fry cones with smoked sea salt, and rosemary infused lemonade...to name a few. Hungry yet? Wait until you actually see the pics below.

I absolutely loved working on this and I thank Blake Miller and Lindsay Emeigh from Charlotte Wedding Magazine for this amazing opportunity.

Produced by Lindsay Emeigh and Blake Miller
Fashion styling by Jenn Grabenstetter
Location photography by Chris Edwards / Studio

Anne Hathaway's 8 Oscar Looks

2011-02-28T17:27:00.001-05:00

I started this post covering the red carpet fashions of all the celebrity attendees--hits and misses. But instead, I veered to covering Anne Hathaway's eight, yes EIGHT, Oscar outfits. This in itself was enough, and quite honestly, more interesting than the rest.

The red carpet was just not enough for me to go gaga over--and by that, I don't mean Lady Gaga's intrepid choices would have done it. But its not to say that there weren't hits. I did love Sandra Bullock's Vera Wang red dress, Halle Berry's Marchesa gown, Hillary Swank's Gucci Premiére dress, Natalie Portman in Rodarte, and Giuliana Rancic in Christian Ciriano--yes, I know she's not an A-list actress, but I did love her dress.

Ok, so back to Anne. I'll keep it short, sweet and to the point.

At the red carpet: Vintage Valentino.

Second Look: Givenchy Haute Couture gown by Riccardo Tisci.
Third Look: Tux by Lanvin custom made for for her. And I LOVE the Brian Atwood heels, covered in Swarovski crystals.
Fourth Look: Vivienne Westood Couture.

Fifth Look: Oscar de la Renta.
Sixth Look: Atelier Versace.
Seventh Look: Armani Privé.

Eighth Look: Tom Ford.

And the winner is...

The Atelier Versace, which she wore again to the Vanity Fair after-party, and I can see why. This one is by far my favorite--although she can't go wrong, and I did like all her looks--but I just fell in love with this dress; the strapless neckline and the details are...perfect!

Brooklyn Wedding Fair

2011-02-24T11:15:00.000-05:00

Hi there! I really needed to share this with all of you brides, family of brides, and friends of brides--if you really love them and want to help them.

There is a fantastically unique wedding fair going on this Sunday, February 27, 2011 at the Bell House in Brooklyn, NY. So if you are in the area--unfortunately I'm not--do not miss this super packed event with bubbly, food sampling, live bands, comedians, bridal fashion show, more bubbly, dancing...need I say more?

Oh, how I wish I lived up north. It sounds like an awesome and fun wedding fair. It is my birthday today, anyone want to fly me out there, you know, as a birthday present? I can be ready in a jiffy! =)

For tickets and more detailed information click here.

Anthropologie's BHLDN Bridal Line

2011-02-15T13:20:00.002-05:00

Behold, the new bridal line from Anthropologie!!!

A dear friend started off my day with excitement when she informed me about BHLDN this morning--She's an Anthro die-hard.

First of all, I have to say WOW!!! As soon as I entered the BHLDN website I was captivated beyond my control. This dreamy line of wedding gowns, bridal accessories, bridesmaids dresses and shoes is so uniquely adorable and fresh. You can choose by what kind of bride you are--Nostalgic Romantic, Neo-Sophisticate, La Bohémienne, or Lady with a Twist--and I'm probably all of the above.

Below are a few of my fave picks from each line, although it was very hard to pick out the faves, everything is gorgeous!

See, I told you! And your bridesmaids will love you forever if you pick for them to wear BHLDN, so versatile.

Don't you just love having more options? Specially this one. I love it, and it has inspired me. Enjoy!

Google For Weddings

2011-02-10T17:29:00.000-05:00

Google just announced about an hour ago that they have launched Goggle Weddings in partnership with prominent wedding planner, Michelle Rago. Google is attempting to making it easy for brides to plan their wedding by providing them with personalized wedding websites, personalized announcements, Google Docs to do all the planning, and photo sharing.

Michelle Rag o, known for her unique, yet relaxed style--specially in destination weddings--shares tips to help brides plan their perfect wedding.

So why is this any different than all the other wedding planning websites out there? I guess we'll have to give it time, test it out and see, given that--I believe--its only been up and running for about an hour now.

Wedding Send Off Signs

2011-02-04T10:11:00.000-05:00

I was approached by a bride who, along with wedding invitations and other coordinating products, wanted 'Exit Signs'. I have to admit, my head tilted slightly like a confused puppy--this is a new concept for me. Once she elaborated it sounded like a neat idea and I can't wait to work on them.

So, I started doing some research online and they are more known as Send Off Signs. I came across a couple of images that got me even more excited!

Source: Etsy

Source: grblue.com

These are great for photo ops--not just stacked together like the above images, but also having the wedding party, or some of the guests lined up holding them. Sounds cute, doesn't it?

A Dress Review of the 2011 Golden Globes

2011-01-17T19:10:00.001-05:00

Hello, my fellow dress enthusiasts!

So, because this year I wasn't able to walk the red carpet myself due to the fact that I'm, well, not famous, I will bring to you my perspective on what went on out there--fashion-wise.

I have to say, I was kind of disappointed, and I mean overall. Its not to say there weren't a few hits--for me at least. There seemed to be quite a bit of nude coloring out there, some did it right, some not so much-- which were mostly just washing them out...what's up with that? Some who did get it, Anne Hathaway in Giorgio Armani Privé, and Scarlett Johansson in Elie Saab.

Another color that did dominate the evening was emerald green, worn by Angelina Jolie in Versace, Mila Kunis in Vera Wang, Catherine Zeta-Jones in Monique Lhuillier, and Elisabeth Moss in Donna Karan. I have mixed feelings about all of these so its best I move along.

One gown that took me a few seconds to decide if I liked it or not was the black Zac Posen worn by Eva Longoria, I ultimately decided that I love this gown, there's something about it, not sure what it is yet. But I love it!

But the one I would have to put as my top pick-- and this kind of surprised me but at the same time not really since she's now on the Fashion Police at E!-- was Kelly Osbourne, and to my other surprise the dress is by Zac Posen too! I think this might be my fave new designer. Her dress is very much right on with the new Spring fashion trend of color block. She looks amazing!

How Magical It Is...

2011-01-11T11:08:00.000-05:00

In honor of the snow that has kept us in the past two days, I decided to write about winter weddings.

Rudi and Vikki's Alpine Wedding. See more amazing pictures and read

all about their incredibly romantic engagement on The Pretty Blog.com

Yes, June weddings are typically more popular and it does make it easier to choose strapless gowns for the bride as well as the bridesmaids, but there's something so magical and ethereal about winter weddings. Imagine an historic site with the fireplace lit, tables decorated in all white with touches of crystals glimmering from the candle light. Sounds romantic, doesn't it?

And then there's the photography aspect of it. You can get some seriously amazing photography--if done right--in the snow. Some tips though, wear thermal leggings under your dress and keep hand warmers with you. A fur or faux fur wrap doesn't just look divine but it will keep those shoulders nice and warm. I read somewhere that in order to keep the dress clean and as dry as possible during the photo session outside, get the dress to the same temperature as it is outside, that way when the snow falls on it, it won't melt.

When decorating, a dramatic effect can be created by placing streams of twinkle lights from the corners of the room and gathering them into the center. Any columns can also be wrapped and filled with the same twinkle lights.

Here's also a very cute idea that will put a nice modern twist to your decor, garlands of paper snowflakes. Going back to your childhood adds a sprinkle of fun and will make your guests smile from nostalgia. I found this awesome idea on Intimateweddings.com.

And last but not least, this next image epitomizes a winter wedding wonderland. Sure, it might cost you an arm and a leg just for this decor alone, but its so beautiful, I couldn't resist. And who knows, you might find the right planner/decorator that may be able to duplicate this on a budget.

Bitter Chocolate Decadence

2011-01-03T10:27:00.000-05:00

This is a little sneak peek at one of our client's wedding invitations that we are currently working on. The bride wanted Tiffany blue and chocolate brown as her colors and hydrangeas included in the design, and from that we created this elegant triple layered beaut. I will post more detailed pictures soon. Enjoy!

Rihanna's Ethereal Marchesa Gown

2010-11-09T11:36:00.000-05:00

I have to say that I am loving the gown Rihanna wore last night during the purple carpet at the European Music Awards in Madrid. It is from the Marchesa Spring 2011 Collection and it goes to show that the ruffle trend that we are seeing in the runways is not going anywhere anytime soon.

Her new flaming red hair seems a little toned down with the updo and her makeup is flawless. Very unexpected from her usual edgy fashion style, specially for the MTV EMAs too.

See it here from a different angle and the dress on the Marchesa runway.

And here's the back.....amazing!!

So how do you feel about this dress? Would you consider it for your wedding?

Latest Wedding Dress Fashions From the NY Bridal Market

2010-10-19T14:01:00.000-04:00

Even though I'm not at the New York Bridal Market, I still wanted to share with you the latest collection of wedding dresses that were showcased from a couple of my favorite designers.

Angel Sanchez, a Venezuelan born design genius, blew me away with his latest designs.

So simple and chic

This one is amazing! Check out the back below it.

Photos from Wedding Bee

Ruffles has been the most seen trend in upcoming bridal collections and Monique Lhuillier definitely took that and made it dreamier than you could ever imagine with her "Floral Fantasy" Collection.

Photos from Wedding Bee

I love ruffles, there's something so romantic and magical about them.

I'm trying to find some good images from the Romona Keveza show, hopefully I'll have some for you soon :)

Nüage Mulberry Digital Art at the Charlotte Wedding Connection

2010-10-14T20:59:00.000-04:00

This was our setup at the Charlotte Wedding Connection Bridal Show on 10.10.10 at the Levine Museum, Uptown Charlottte.

We also design directional signs and car magnets (wedding related).

Charlotte Wedding Magazine hosted the Charlotte Wedding Connection, and it was so amazing to be able to participate in this bridal show and meet all the fantastic brides that visited our table as well as the other vendors I was actually able to meet whenever I had a tiny little window to do so.

Thank you all, and it was so lovely to meet you.

You can see the rest of the pics here.

Tungsten--A Growing Trend in Men's Wedding Bands

2010-10-08T12:31:00.000-04:00

I first learned about Tungsten rings about two and a half years ago, when we were at a resort with a group of friends for a wedding and there was a newlywed couple at the pool chatting with us. I noticed the husband's ring and its unique color, as well as how shiny and brand new it looked. I complimented him on the ring and he proceeded to tell me that it was Tungsten and that it would stay just as shiny for years to come...I was intrigued.

Tungsten carbide is approximately three times stronger than steel, and is much denser than titanium.

According to several jewelry industry surveys for the last several years, young couples aged 25-34 years have been overwhelmingly choosing tungsten rings for the man's wedding band more than any other material. Initially, most tungsten rings were of solid tungsten with little variance between styles. More recently however style and fashion conscious couples are opting for more elaborate tungsten rings featuring an inlay of a precious metal such as gold, silver, or platinum or a tungsten ring featuring diamonds. --Free Press Release Center

I personally prefer simple and classic.

They also now offer a variance in the finish and color hue, ranging from super shiny, almost mirror-like, to a brushed finish, to black or dark hue. The material is highly resistant to scratches and scuffs, holding its finish for years--and that is what I love most about it.

A common misconception held concerning tungsten carbide rings is that they cannot be removed in the course of emergency medical treatment, requiring the finger to be removed instead--sorry ladies. We were warned of this when we purchased my husband's Tungsten wedding band. We weren't concerned since my husband's line of work doesn't require handy work. But emergency rooms and many full-service jewelry repair shops are equipped with jewelers' saws that can cut through tungsten carbide rings without injuring the hand or finger. An easier way to remove tungsten carbide rings is to use a tool such as a vise, which can be used to shatter the ring. So, don't be scared by this fallacy.

The best part though, is that it's actually a very affordable option--I likey that too!

Long-Lasting Beautiful Nails

2010-10-01T11:40:00.001-04:00

Let me start by saying that Sally Hansen is NOT an endorser (unless they want to :D) and they have never contacted me to review any of their products. This is simply me sharing an amazing product that I use and I believe that consumer reviews are more powerful than what the product package says.

That said, I absolutely MUST share this with you because there is nothing more frustrating than spending over an hour of prep and painting your nails--or paying for it--just to have them chip the very next day.

I recently purchased Sally Hansen's Super Shine Shiny Top Coat, which claimed to protect nail enamel for a longer-lasting manicure...and that it did! I painted my nails in a fab dark brownish-red color (different brand), finished it off with the Super Shine and my nails did not start chipping until 8 days later!!! I have tried the Revlon ColorStay before and that one also makes it last just as long but the problem with the Revlon ColorStay is that it is a pain in the rear to take off and the color just smears all over your fingers--not a big fan of that. With the Super Shine the nail polish was super easy to remove, love! And I also love that their products are DBP free.

This, of course, relates to weddings because even if you have a pro do your nails for your wedding you can hand them the Super Shine for them to use or you can apply on top of your mani when you get home, and it will last not just through your wedding but through most of your honeymoon, and you'll have pretty and perfectly manicured nails for days.

Dirty Dancing Wedding

2010-09-28T12:57:00.003-04:00

There is a growing trend of performing unconventional, most times comical, first dances at weddings. And to be honest, its kind of actually getting a little old and tired now. But maybe that is because I see it more being in the wedding industry and perhaps guests are still surprised and tickled by them.

Having said that, this particular wedding dance, to me, was actually fascinating because Dirty Dancing is one of my all time favorite movies and there's something about this couple that is so charming and likeable. So, without further ado, here it is...enjoy!

Courtesy of Just Wedding News

Would You Hire Wedding Security?

2010-09-22T11:06:00.000-04:00

I was listening to the radio in the car this morning and they were talking about a new wedding trend...hiring wedding security. Now, we've seen on TV shows like Bridezilla and Who's Wedding Is It Anyways, couples hiring security to keep certain family members or exes from crashing and ruining their wedding day. But apparently this trend is not exactly for that reason. Security is being hired to keep guests from stealing their gifts, specially anything in an envelope--as well as preventing some from drinking too much. Some venues offer the security as part of the contract.

Wouldn't you think that if the bride or groom know or suspect of someone who may possibly steal from them, then maybe they shouldn't be invited? That's my thought, but I also understand that because of certain circumstances they have no choice but to invite them or they just may show up uninvited.

So, this radio station had listeners call in and tell their story of why they wish they would have hired security for their wedding, and one caller's story was both shocking and sad, with a touch of hilarity.

The person calling in was saying that he and his high school sweetheart had moved from their home town to Charlotte, NC before getting married. When planning their wedding they decided to invite--through Facebook, mind you--their old high school friends, whom they had not seen or hung out with since high school. The day after the wedding, the venue had informed them that cases of wine and beer had been stolen, along with--get this, are you ready?--decorative memorabilia and even a lamp from the venue, SHOCKING!! Then about a month later, an uncle had called to see how they liked their court side tickets to a Lakers game, did I say court side? Like where Leonardo and Jack always sit. "What tickets?". Oh man! And they still have no idea what else was stolen, what other gifts, money gifts, etc. That's just wrong!!

So, do you think you would need to hire wedding security? Maybe a background check would help before inviting people...I'm kidding! Or am I? :)

Etsy Find...Two Delightfully Adorable Dresses

2010-09-21T08:37:00.000-04:00

These two dresses from Audrey and Grace Couture on Etsy are soooooo adorable, perfect for a casual vintage wedding. Paired with some fabulous bright colored peep toes, and you're set!

Katy Perry's Bachelorette Party In Vegas

2010-09-20T14:21:00.000-04:00

So, Rihanna organized Katy Perry's bachelorette party which took place in Sin City this past weekend. According to NY Daily News they, along with 25 friends--which they keep referring to as her entourage--chilled by the pool on Saturday at the Hard Rock Hotel and then went to check out Cirque du Soleil's "KA" and hung out backstage with the performers (see picture). Afterward, they headed to dinner and partied at XS Club and ended the night at a strip club where Katy got a lap dance from a female dancer.

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Any opinions on Rihanna's new red hair?

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Now, I'm wondering why they kept referring to the people that attended the bachelorette party as an entourage of 25 instead of her friends. I do like the fact that Katy wore a little top hat with white tulle around it instead of the typical tiara and sache.

This was also the day after her Fiancé, Russel Brand, got arrested for attacking a photographer at LAX. Does this mean he got to spend his bachelor party weekend in jail? Probably not, but still, it sucks.

Too Funny!!!!

2010-09-17T11:18:00.002-04:00

Xochitl Gonzalez @theblogsmaid shared this on Twitter and I had to post it. Its so hilarious!

"You will need to play a few requests like, 'I Will Survive', 'Brick House', and some of my favorites from David Hasselhoff."

"We don't do any David Hasselhoff tunes."

"Why not he's very popular in Germany."

"Thank God we are not in Germany, he is terrible."

Etsy Find....Eye-Catching Clutches

2010-09-16T11:31:00.001-04:00

I am madly in love with these clutches by FiazCo, that I found on Etsy. They do

custom orders for brides and bridal parties and can include a personalized message inside the clutches, how awesome is that?

Cakes On A Stick....Genius!! Super Sale at New York Cake Pops

2010-09-15T12:24:00.001-04:00

How amazingly delish do these look? I mean, cake on a stick....genius!

Lérida Mojica from New York Cake Pops creates these spectacular little wonders. Coming from a long line of artists, creativity comes natural to her. She used to work at the Guggenheim Museum and then started as a freelance photographer after her daughter was born. "During her nap times I would be in the kitchen baking and suddenly realized I was spending more time in the kitchen than behind my camera", Lérida recalls on how the light bulb came on.

The best part about these cake pops--as well as cupcakes and cakes--is that they are all made from handpicked organic and all natural ingredients, all baked from scratch and all hand decorated, and the cake pops wrapped and tied with pretty ribbons--perfect for a show-stopping impact at a wedding or any occasion.

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The last image, with the cherry blossoms....divine for a wedding!

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I am dying to try the red velvet cake pop, it just looks like it wants to be eaten. Along with the staples she also has a wide variety of unique flavors, like in her "Not Your Kids Cake" category that includes green tea, lemon and lavender, carrot with coconut, tres leche. Her "After 5" category carries tequila lime cake, lemon vodka and her seasonal spiced apple with eggnog--Happy Hour anyone?

These cake pops can be shipped anywhere in the US, within two days to ensure the quality and freshness of the product. And for a limited time, starting today (9.15.2010 until 9.22.2010) she is having a super enticing sale: Buy two half dozens and get the third half dozen for FREE!! (still redeemable for 1 month after the sale is over... shhh its a secret, oh! I guess not anymore). So, visit her website at New York Cake Pops and mention the sale during checkout. Or contact her at lerida{at}newyorkcakepops.com. You can also visit her Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/newyorkcakepops.

Green and Grey Wedding Inspiration Board

2010-09-14T14:22:00.000-04:00

Cupcakes Image: weddingobsessions.com; Shoes: Christian Dior, Image by Next Exit Photography; Invitations: nuagemulberry.com; Bouquet Image: weddingchicks.com; Dress: Vera Wang

Carolina Herrera Bridal Spring 2011--Style: ANNA :)

2010-09-10T16:13:00.000-04:00

Ok, so I was going through Carolina Herrera's new Spring 2011 bridal collection and this dress immediately caught my eye--why? because its different, and you know I likey things that are different.

After checking out all the details in the picture and practically drooling right on my keyboard, I read the details and guess what?!? The style name is ANNA. Uh-huh! I knew I liked it for a reason ;)

A Wondrously Inspiring Necklace

2010-09-10T12:28:00.000-04:00

Love, love, love this necklace! I came across this but I don't know who its by. If anyone can shed a light please share with us, I'm sure we have a lot of brides (and non brides) wondering.

Bridal Makeup Tips

2010-09-08T12:32:00.002-04:00

Your wedding day is the one day you really want to look and feel beautiful, glamorous and flawless. Makeup is one of those things that brides don't think about much until its getting close to wedding day and they may realize that they didn't factor it into their budget.

Hiring a good makeup artist will ensure that you look beautiful on your wedding day because they know how to apply makeup for pictures. But lets say you had a tiny little heart attack when you heard how much it would be to hire a makeup artist, and you think to yourself, "I use makeup all the time, I can do my own". Well, I have a great tip for you if you choose to do your own makeup.

Even if you think you know how to apply makeup, and are always playing around with different looks every time you go out on the town, you can always learn new tricks and tips. I suggest going to a makeup counter such as MAC or Sephora (I prefer MAC), and let them know that you are getting married and would like for them to teach you how to apply makeup for a wedding. They are always more than willing to help you out. They will explain step by step how to apply the makeup, the order you should apply it in, and will also write it all down for you so that you can use that sheet as your guide when the time comes for you to apply it yourself. They don't charge anything to teach you all this.

TIP: I would probably do this about a month or so before your wedding, that way you get to practice your new makeup techniques a couple of times--maybe for your bachelorette party, bridal shower, or rehearsal dinner.

Now here's the thing, you should buy the products they use on you--yes its expensive, but guess what, they're YOURS, and you get to use them more than just once. So, for the price that you pay for a professional to do your makeup for one day, you can buy the makeup, keep it and learn a few techniques. Also,
quality products are essential in order for it to withstand all day and to achieve that flawless look, so it will definitely be worth the investment. You don't have to buy every single thing though, you may be able to get away with some products you already have in your makeup drawer. They should be able, an honest enough, to let you know what will be more beneficial.

Here are a few products that I absolutely love and work well with MAC products:

• Smashbox Photo Finish Primer - This primer is amazing! It leaves your skin feeling so silky soft, smoothing out pores and fine lines and priming the skin which gives a flawless canvas. Half a pump should be plenty so don't over do it.

• Chanel Eyeshadow Brush & Sephora Professionnel Bronzer Brush- Brushes are very important when applying makeup. A good brush will help the makeup go on smoothly and blends it nicely and not make you look like its 80's makeup gone bad (or worse).

• NARS Blush - This is the kind of blush that I can put on by itself when I'm in a rush and it gives me that little bit of glow and freshness. It is made with transparent pigments to avoid heaviness and gives you that soft sheer look.

• Maybelline XXL Pro Waterproof Mascara - This is a two-step mascara. Step one: Sweep the microfiber basecoat from root to tip to build dramatic volume, its white and it looks a little weird going on. Step two: Before the basecoat dries, sweep the microfiber topcoat from root to tip to lock on super-intense color. I use this all the time and most times I don't even apply the basecoat and I still get dramatic results.

• Covergirl Eyebrow Gel - Eyebrows are the last step and very important in finishing your look. This product is great for taming and keeping eyebrows in place, its like hair gel but for eyebrows and its clear so you don't see it.

• Ardell False Eyelashes - This is a must. False eyelashes enhance the beauty of your eyes and help bring more attention to them. MAC does have a great variety of lashes, from half lash (nicknamed halfsies) to full lashes. I used them for my wedding, but I've also found that Ardell Lashes are just as good and they have what they call the Perfect Bride Lashes, made from 100% sterilized human hair. And the best part, you can find them at your local pharmacy or Target for around $5 or $6. One thing I do recommend using, that is crucial to applying lashes, is the DUO lash adhesive, which is made by the same people that make Ardell Lashes. Always always use DUO, they use it at MAC and Sephora and it is the best lash adhesive out there. If you buy lashes that come with adhesive that is not DUO, throw it away and get DUO.

Hope these tips help you out, whether you are getting married or not, it still always good to learn new techniques and tricks of the trade.

Destination Wedding--Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

2010-09-03T12:08:00.009-04:00

A couple of weeks ago I posted a review on the Majestic Colonial Resort, where I had my destination wedding and my experience with them. I said I would write another post on the actual wedding and here it is--TA DA!!!

Each of our guests received this welcome bag full of goodies. Some of the things included: A hangover kit, filled with all the necessities like band aids, tylenol, electrolyte mix, etc; a koozie, the weekend itinerary and guide of the resort booklet, sudoku book, bath loofahs, snacks, hand sanitizer, lip balm, playing cards....among many other things.

My flower hair pin for the reception and one of my bracelets; I had two bracelet options, this one was the most modest one, but I ended up wearing the bolder one at the last minute.

My son, and ring bearer, Evan :D

A letter I wrote my husband before the ceremony.

Our vows to each other and Lawrence's vows to Evan, which became the most emotional part of the whole ceremony, not a dry eye in the crowd.

I loved having a destination wedding, because once we arrived at the resort, I didn't have to worry about anything but relaxing. I mean, seriously, what bride hangs out at the pool with friends and family --*ahem* having a couple of piña coladas-- up until a couple of hours before her wedding?? But the best part was making memories throughout a few days as opposed to just one night.

Our wonderful photographers, and guests as well--I again have to give them credit, because they are the best--Dustin and Diana from Bella Loren Photography, were amazing. Dustin and I used to work together and before I even met Lawrence and I told him that if I ever got married again, I wanted him as my wedding photographer. They captured our wedding in a way that describes who we are. They were also there to capture the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner, and pretty much most of the weekend--they did get to relax though.

Our wedding party consisted of only my Maid of Honor, my cousin, and the Best Man, Lawrence's best friend. We wanted to keep it small and simple, no fuss. My colors started off as chartreuse and brown, not your typical beach wedding colors, but that's me, I never do typical. I did end up adding touches of citrus orange for the ease of finding flowers for the arrangements and bouquets. My dress is actually a bridesmaids dress from Bari Jay, which I had them make in all white. I couldn't find a dress I liked that wasn't too heavy, and this one was perfect--its totally me. I wore a cathedral length mantilla veil for the ceremony, because of my Spanish heritage--a little tricky with the wind, but I don't regret wearing it.

For the ceremony, we ended up having to do something different as well. First, let me say that we got legally married in the U.S. before the destination wedding to prevent anything from going wrong. Our original officiant, and father of the groom, was unable to attend at the last minute due to unforeseen, and understandable, circumstances. So when we found out about a week or so before we flew down there, we came up with the idea of having our families marry us. We wrote up the whole symbolic ceremony and gave everyone a part to read, and basically the maid of honor and best man pronounced us husband and wife. Everyone just looooved the way it turned out, it was very unique. But as mentioned before, my husband's vows to my son was the most emotional part of the whole ceremony, thank goodness for waterproof mascara. Even the toughest of the crowd let out a tear.

The reception, despite the music catastrophe (see review of resort blogpost), was still energetic. It is a fairly new tradition in the D.R. to have masks and feathers and beads brought out towards the middle or end of the reception--after dinner, first dance, and any traditional reception moments--bringing energy to the crowd and make it somewhat of a carnival (or mardi gras here in the US) type of a party.

Both my husband and I like adventure, and this was definitely one to remember. I married the love of my life and my best friend. There's never a dull moment with him and I look forward to making more wonderful memories with my true love and my son for the rest of our lives.

Tiffany & Co. Releases New Leather Handbag Collection

2010-09-03T09:10:00.000-04:00

How perfect is this??? Tiffany & Co., one of the most influential houses in the fashion industry has just debuted the Tiffany Leather Collection, created by renowned designers of the finest leather accessories, Richard Lambertson and John Truex.

“The collection captures the spirit of American sportswear and its exuberant approach to life in town, in the country and from coast to coast,” says Richard Lambertson. “We also find great inspiration in Tiffany’s timeless style and its heritage of refined accessories.”

With clean lines, the bags are available in different materials such as crocodile, snakeskin, calf and suede, and are lined with Tiffany Blue leather.

The designers have created the bag of the day—the Manhattan Satchel. This generous-size
bag holds everything, maintaining its elegant shape in glazed crocodile or snakeskin, natural grain calf or a giraffe print in haircalf. In similar fashion, the designers take the measure of the tote and create the TRT (Tiffany Reversible Tote), the season’s surprise must-have in the rich colors and supple feel of reversible suede and metallic leather. --Tiffany & Co. Leather Goods News Release.

The evening clutches come in a variety of colors, materials and styles, perfect for weddings, cocktails and formal events. Some options are the Satin clutch, The Savoy clutch, which is pleated and tucked, The Camille clutch, embellished with a crystal bow, and the Bracelet Bag, which yes, it has the style of Tiffany jewelry in a wrist chain--awesome!!

The Tiffany Leather Collection range from $395 to a whopping $16,500.

I Do Details Events--Event Planning in Charlotte, NC

2010-09-02T09:37:00.004-04:00

Photos by Amy Czelusniak

I've had the awesome opportunity of working with Kate Fitzgerald from I Do Details Events. She has been planning events since she was a little girl and, well, basically it just comes naturally to her.

As a kindergarten teacher, patience and organization is definitely embedded in her--and what is more important in an event planner than that?

Being a vendor myself, I know how critical it is to be able to count on other vendors and I can say that Kate is extremely reliable and always responsive.

If you live in the Charlotte, NC or surrounding areas, and are looking for a wedding planner or any other kind of event you may need help with, Kate is your gal. She will make your most important day of your life one to always remember.

A Thousand Facets--A MUST Follow Blog

2010-08-31T11:32:00.002-04:00

Meet one of my dearest friends, Joanne --A jewelry designer, fashionista, world traveler and blogger.

Joanne and I have known each other for about twelve years, since we were college roomies. She majored in Fashion Design and I in Fashion Merchandising. Even though we never took a single class together, sharing a tiny narrow room, a small bathroom and an even smaller closet made us super buds--and she never got on my nerves, now that should tell you how awesome she is.

I am very much into fashion and like to follow some trends but still putting my own spin to them (seriously there are some trends I just don't get and wouldn't fall into just because everyone else is). But I also look to Joanne as my style guru. A Thousand Facets is the name of her blog, and it fits perfectly. In her blog you can read all about the things she appreciates, not just in fashion but in life. She doesn't have one specific style--which I love, because I don't either--but she does have her own style. By day, she is a jewelry designer for a company that sells to retailers. Some that have carried her designs have been: Anthropologie, Ann Taylor Loft, and Bloomingdales, just to name a few, and some of her pieces have been worn in the hit shows Glee and Ugly Betty. She loves to mix different types of materials, and she designs them from super eccentric to simple and chic, just like her!

I thought of her when choosing between a modest but intricate bracelet and a much bolder but elegant bracelet to wear on my wedding day, I knew she would want me to wear the bold one, so I did!

She is extremely talented and I have not yet seen a piece I haven't loved. Her blog inspires me to be more creative in my outfits and in life. So, visit A Thousand Facets, and be inspired.

Wedding Fun Facts

2010-08-27T12:29:00.000-04:00

Did you ever wonder how some wedding traditions came about? I found some fun facts that may or may not be true, but found them kind of quirky and somewhat humorous.

•It was the accepted practice in Babylon 4,000 years ago that for a month after the wedding, the bride's father would supply his son-in-law with all the mead he could drink. Mead is a honey beer, and because their calendar was lunar based, this period was called the "honey month" or what we know today as the "honeymoon." -- Butlerwebs

•Why is a wedding ring worn on the third finger? It was once believed that a vein of blood ran directly from the third finger on the left hand to the heart. The vein was called vena amori, or the vein of love, and early writings on matrimonial procedure suggested that it would be appropriate for one's wedding ring to be worn on that special finger. Source: Ever Wonder Why? Douglas B. Smith / Mass Market Paperback / Published 1992

•Life in the 1500's: Most people got married in June because they took their yearly bath in May and were still smelling pretty good by June. However, they were starting to smell, so brides carried a bouquet of flowers to hide the body odor. -- Butlerwebs

•February 10th is World Marriage Day.

•The second Saturday in September is a popular date for weddings, but not in 2004 when the second Saturday fell on September 11th. Most couples did not want their wedding anniversary to fall on that date.

•The wedding shower originated with a Dutch maiden who fell in love with an impoverished miller. Her friends "showered" her and her groom with many gifts so the couple could do without her dowry.

The Blingest of Blings

2010-08-26T13:10:00.002-04:00

Before I mention the price of these puppies, let me say that the bling factor here has been taken to a whole new level--Talk about making a freaking statement!!!

As you can tell by the famous red soles, these are Christian Louboutin--Lady Claude 120 Pumps--and they run a hefty $3,175. So, what makes these shoes so expensive? Besides the fact that they are CL, the pale gold leather, peep-toe, 4.5" tall pumps are encrusted with iridescent Swarovski crystals, and that answers it all.

But the real question is, would you spend almost as much, or possibly more on your shoes than your wedding dress? Would you compromise on your dress for these? I mean, they are fabulous! Well, I did a bit of research and if you are absolutely in love with these shoes, or mainly the idea of having such blingy shoes, I found an inexpensive option so that you can still have those eye-catching wedding shoes you've been wanting.

Benjamin Adams from London makes very similar pumps, also covered in Swarovski crystals--except for the heels--but for A LOT less. His website sell them for £275, that's less than US$430. But I've also seen them for around $399 on other sites.

So, now you can have your dress and your bling too!

Bridal Jewelry and Bridesmaids Gifts Solution

2010-08-26T12:32:00.001-04:00

I've had the pleasure of meeting the über creative, sweet and lively, Erin McDermott when she was the winner for a giveaway I was doing of personalized cards on a local e-newsletter a few months ago.

Once I received her first email with her personalized information I noticed she had a link to her website attached to it, and I was curious. I clicked on it and learned that she was a jewelry designer, and immediately I had a rush of excitement because I LOVE jewelry. I saw her pieces on her website and just had to have a few. So, I went to her studio and picked out three pieces for myself and she also designed a beautiful necklace for my five year old niece, personalized with her initials.

After taking jewelry classes at the Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC, Erin McDermott fell in love with the process of making jewelry. She uses semi-precious stones, sterling silver, organic forms, textures, glass, freshwater pearls, wood, and unique materials to create her classic but also modern and unique jewelry. I love them because they are delicate looking but definitely have a presence and make a statement.

She makes earrings, rings, necklaces and bracelets and has a bridal collection, a little girls collection, and my fave, her treasure chest collection, which is perfect for your bridesmaids gifts because she can personalize them, and I must say they are exquisite!

So, if you love jewelry like I do and have that refined taste I know you do (and also just happen to need that perfect gift for your bridesmaids) visit www.erinmcdermott.com and contact her for personalized jewelry.

Tips For The Budget Conscious Bride

2010-08-24T16:31:00.002-04:00

You just got engaged, or halfway through planning your wedding, and you are either a frugal bride, on a budget, or you have your parents' (or Fiancé's) voice in the back of your head, yelling at you to spend less. Either way, these tips may help you reduce some of those little extra costs that add up.

1) Check the sales rack - I know for some of you hearing the words "sales rack" is like a screeching sound that makes you cringe. Well, guess what? ON SALE does not mean lesser quality, it means you could get an expensive fabulous dress for less, meanwhile another bride got the same dress for a lot more.

Me, I thought outside the box. For my wedding dress I had a bridesmaids dress made in all white, believe it or not I couldn't find anything as perfect as this one was for my wedding and my style. Since I had a beach wedding, this dress was light, comfortable and stunning (IMHO). I tried on several 'beach wedding dresses' and they felt heavy, I just knew I wouldn't be able to stand being in any them for very long. And the best part, because its not an actual wedding dress, I can have the dress dyed in one of my favorite colors and wear it again! (A quick tip for this: a dark color will make it look like a totally different dress, not so much a lighter color...I'm thinking a dark magenta for mine)

2) Shop in the off season - For example, shoes! Now that summer is almost over, retailers are rolling out fall and winter shoes, which means those amazing, strappy shoes with rhinestones (that make your legs look so much sexier) are on sale. Also retailers are rolling out new collections, ie. Tip #1

3) Don't buy the first thing you see - Shop around and if you must have it after seeing what else is out there, then get it. The internet is your best friend, you can find more deals online, so use it to your advantage.

4) Give yourself plenty of time - The more time you have, the longer you can look around and will not have to make last minute, exorbitant purchases. You can look in a range of stores, especially those you think have nothing, because you never know, they might surprise you.

5) Consider a destination wedding - Destination weddings can be less expensive, and less stressful. Mexico and the Caribbean boasts an abundance of All-Inclusive resorts. Most of these resorts have a wedding department with several coordinators, and get this, some of them do up to 2 wedding a day, 7 days a week! Which means they know what they are doing and know how to execute everything in a timely manner and they take care of everything, including the setting of any extras you bring. They have different packages that could include flowers, dinner, alcohol, officiant, music, etc. Plus they always throw in a few extras like a couples massage, breakfast in bed, romantic dinner for the couple, and more. Only consider this if you don't mind having a more intimate wedding because not all of your guests will be able to attend.

The best thing about a destination wedding is that it doesn't only last one night. It is a week long, or weekend long event and you get to make more memories for less money and it allows for everyone to relax.

So, put your thinking hats on and think outside the box, be creative or enlist a friend who is to help you come up with resourceful ideas.

Adding a Little Sense of Humor to Your Wedding

2010-08-20T10:39:00.016-04:00

So, you want to find ways to infuse your wedding with a few chuckles but not make a joke of it all and still keep it formal or elegant. These wedding cake toppers from Wedding Warehouse are the perfect way to incorporate your sense of humor in a subtle way. Wedding Warehouse carries all kinds of fun and innovative toppers, from the golf fanatic to the shopaholic. You can also find interchangeable ethnic bride and groom.

A whimsical statement can be more memorable than a traditional one because it is different. Creative and funny extras added can inject a sense of humor into the traditional wedding. So dare to give a little bit of hilarity to your wedding.

Review of My Destination Wedding at Majestic Colonial, Punta Cana, D.R.

2010-08-19T12:21:00.005-04:00

A little overdue, but here is my review on how my destination wedding was at the Majestic Colonial Resort in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

I am originally from the Dominican Republic, born and raised. So when my husband and I first started talking about where to have the wedding, we had no doubt that we wanted to have a destination wedding, and where better than my place of birth?

The abundance of resorts in Punta Cana, and all around the coast of the island, made it challenging when selecting the perfect resort. After lots and lots of research we decided on the Majestic Colonial, but not before flying down there to see it for ourselves personally and meeting with a wedding coordinator about a year in advance.

We have stayed at other resorts in the area before that are on the same level as the Majestic Colonial, but found that the Majestic was a better bang for your buck. We were pleasantly surprised with the rooms; they were the cleanest, most comfortable and nicest rooms I've seen in the PC area (for the money).

For our wedding weekend, upon check-in, we were upgraded to a one bedroom suite (see above). This was very convenient when getting ready for the wedding, having my MOH, my mom, my MIL, the photographers, etc.

We got there on a Wednesday and our wedding took place on Friday, March 26, 2010. We met with the coordinator on Thursday to go over all the details and give her some of the decorations for them to put up, such as the chair sachés, table runners, paper lanterns, a picture of how we wanted the cake, etc.

My mom pretty much took care of the rest of the decor and guided the hotel wedding coordinator as to how to place everything.

My wedding coordinator, Wardes, was great. She was very professional and pleasant to work with. Everything was timed perfectly and the ceremony started on time.

Right after the ceremony, we had a champagne toast which is included in the wedding package and every guest got a glass of champagne. Everyone said they loved that we did that because it was different.

After the toast it was picture time. The guests went to the lobby bar for cocktails while we took our pictures. There are so many places throughout the resort that make beautiful backdrops for photography including the little chapel they have on premise, and we had the best photographers fly down with us, Bella Loren Photography. Even though we had an hour and a half to take pictures, until the reception started, we still ran out of time and wanted to take more, but it was also very hot and we wanted to get our groove on and see our friends and family.

We had the reception at the Tres Calaberas Terrace, where we had them set the tables in a big U shape, leaving the middle as the dance floor. This made for a more intimate setting.

The food was from their set menu, included in the package, and it was very good. It was a surf n' turf dish, with potatoes and vegetables.

Overall, the whole experience was amazing, but there were a couple of things I was disappointed in: one, they didn't put up all the paper lanterns, only about 12 out of 40 that I gave them to put up, could have been that they ran out of time. And then the major one being the music. We booked both the DJ and the Live Band, which we were told it was the in-house 7 piece band that plays at night for all the guests. We had seen them play before and they were excellent, but that wasn't what we got. We got a 2 person "band" with just a keyboard. Needless to say, they were awful, not what we paid for, and eventually had to ask them to stop playing because no one was dancing and that is very rare for our crew. The DJ wasn't all that great either, but we made up for it after the reception when we all went to the resort night club, Coco's.

The rest of the weekend we spent it eating, drinking and at the pool. My husband and I also got a complimentary couple's massage the day after the wedding and it was amazing, best massage I've ever had. Also included in the package was a romantic dinner for the newlyweds, but we opted to have dinner with our friends and family since they all came in from all over and we don't get to see them often.

I hope this post was somewhat helpful to brides considering to have a destination wedding at this resort. I will write all about the wedding decor and details on another post, as I have to go through hundreds of pictures to pick out the best.

Meadow Tangerine Pocket Fold Wedding Invitation Suite

2010-04-06T14:59:00.003-04:00

Chocolate brown pocket fold (5x7 folded) wrapped with a belly band made out of Japanese lace paper and wedding logo tab included with matching 5x7 envelope in a pearlized finish Meadow color. The invitation is backed with a pearlized Meadow panel card. A pocket to the right for RSVP card with coordinating envelope and additional information inserts.

Exotic Paisley Wedding Invitation

2010-02-11T13:44:00.008-05:00

Exotic Paisley - One of the hottest color combinations being used; purple, pink and orange, according to Wedding Channel and The Knot.
Printed on an ultra smooth card stock, backed by a sparkling merlot pearlized finish panel and tuscan sun paisley patterned with a pearlized finish as well, and wrapped in a deep fuchsia 1.5" ribbon interlacing through the invitation. Includes coordinating RSVP card and mailing and RSVP envelopes in pearlized fuchsia.

Kids Stationery

2010-01-20T14:09:00.004-05:00

This is our very first design for our Kids Stationery Line. Great gift for birth, birthdays, graduations, etc. More designs coming soon.

Average price is $28 for a set of 16 (includes envelopes).

Write A Note To Someone

2010-01-15T18:31:00.006-05:00

Get your initial on one of these cards in any color you like.

Shown here in fuschia/green and lime green/orange.

Ref: PSCI24FG (Fuschia)

PSCI25GO (Lime Green)

Black & Chartreuse Suite

2009-11-19T12:17:00.003-05:00

Mounted on a 6x6 black pocket fold, this invitation suite is printed on linen card stock in black and chartreuse. Includes inserts for RSVP, directions and accommodation information, a bellyband in a pearlized finished paper with an initialed tag.

2009-11-06T18:40:00.006-05:00

This unique wedding invitation suite will get people talking. If you really want to set the tone for your wedding and impress your guests, this is the way to go! The centerpiece of our Bronze Amate Collection is the Brown Amate paper that opens up in the middle to reveal the top layer which is the invite itself, printed on column textured card stock. Lift up the invite and you'll see the reception card and RSVP card which this perforated in a discreet manner for guests to detach and send back to you. The suite contains a vertical bronze metallic 4.125" x 9.5" envelope and RSVP envelope, bronze metallic and gold leaf colored back panels, a belly band with monogrammed tag.

Destination Wedding Invitation

2009-11-06T14:50:00.007-05:00

Reflect your beach theme with this tropical yet elegant invitation. Printed on linen card stock and backed with two layers of panel cards in two shades of metallic Tiffany Blue card stock. And to give it that extra tropical touch, a turquoise fiber belly band and coordinating ribbon. This suite also includes RSVP card and both mailing envelopes in Tiffany Blue. Easily customizable, we can add or take out any elements to fit your budget. For a quote, email us at contact@nuagemulberry.com with what you'd like and quantity.
REF: Tiffany Beach

Just got married?

2009-11-06T10:57:00.009-05:00

Personalize your 'thank you' cards and express to your guests your gratitude for sharing with you one of the most important events of your lives. Email us at contact@nuagemulberry.com and include your names, colors and quantity. Average price is $28 for a set of 16 (includes envelopes).
Top: MMWD2
Bottom: MMWD1

Personalized Stationery Cards

2009-11-05T17:11:00.015-05:00

Great for gifting or to use yourself! Cards shown are 3.5x5 and printed on textured "felt" finish card stock 80lb (top) and linen textured card stock 80lb (bottom) to give it that extra touch. Average price is $28 for a set of 16 (includes envelopes). Contact us at contact@nuagemulberry.com to get your personalized stationery cards.

Reference Numbers:
Top: PSCI21
Bottom: PSCI22