Consider D.U.M.B.O., Brooklyn, for your Wedding!

Consider D.U.M.B.O. Brooklyn for your wedding! I had the pleasure of attending the 2008 D.U.M.B.O. Arts Under the Bridge Festival in Brooklyn, New York, this past Saturday. And oh what an experience it was. Thanks to hundreds of visual artists, this was the time of year when Dumbo becomes a multi-sensory art arena, FREE and open to all. Art was everywhere: streets, sidewalks, storefronts, elevators, lobbies, water taxi, waterfront, parks, nooks, crannies and more. I have to thank my old high school friend, Carolyn, for inviting me to this festival. We make it a point to clear our busy schedules and meet once a month.


Inbetween the potato exhibition, interactive art, installations/sculptures, simultaneous projects and glow art, I discovered some fabulous event spaces. In particular, Pochron Studios, Smack Mellon and the Tabocco Factory.

Tobacco Factory

Smack Mellon

Pochran Studios

Wedding Paper Divas

Hip, Modern, Exclusive Wedding Invitations! Wedding Paper Divas are obsessed with designing the finest, highest quality stationery that is unique, simple and modern. Unlike many other stationery companies that simply provide an extensive, something-for-anyone offering, Wedding Paper Divas works with talented artists all over the country to design truly unique products that match current trends and styles. We are proud to offer products from both seasoned veterans in the industry, as well as younger, fabulously talented designers. Many of these newer designers have not sold their products online to-date and are thus making their first entry into the online world with us at Wedding Paper Divas. Their designers have created stationery for many celebrity customers.

Mini Cherry Blossom Dish from Beaucoup.com

This cherry blossom porcelain dish, available at Beaucoup.com, is a practical gift that is every bit as beautiful. The cherry blossom (also known as sakura) is a beloved Japanese flower that takes a very prominent position in Japanese culture.

The trays are hand painted by skilled artisans in Japan. They are great for presenting candies and almonds and can be used as votive holders or soap dishes. The perfect complement to any Asian inspired event.

Available in two sizes: round (3 3/4" dia) and rectangular (3 1/2" x 2 1/2").
packaging. $2.95 each for favor dish, minimum order of 12 pieces.

Emmersen Shoe Clips

Shoe clips are a classic accessory, originally made popular in the past eras of glamour. Essentially jewellery for your shoes, Emmersen Shoe Clips can be clipped onto shoes to co-ordinate a look, for added decoration or as a striking feature piece.

Shoe clips can also be used to embellish other items including bags, hats and scarves or used in the same way as a brooch, on clothing.

Explore Alltop.com

If you haven't discovered Alltop.com, it is time you do. Think of an Alltop site as a "digital magazine rack" of the Internet. Explore not only dozens wedding blogs but also dozens of other topics. Environment, photography, science, Muslim, celebrity gossip, military, fashion, gaming, sports, politics, automobiles, and Macintosh. Alltop helps you explore your passions.

I've discovered many wedding blogs and sites I did not know existed. Visit Alltop.com and you'll be pleasantly surprised.

Max and Chloe Jewelry

I've been letting my blog get dusty and I feel so totally guilty about it. Fortunately, I'm feeling quite prolific this morning.

Any who, on to my latest discovery - Max and Chloe jewelry. Oh so chic! Love, love, love. There is something for everyone, for every occasion and for the upcoming holidays. They even offer gift certificates. How convenient!

Wedding Style Guide - issue 8

Wedding Style Guide - issue 8 is now available on newstands in Australia. Yes, I said Australia. Fret not because you can subscribe to this publication is consistently loaded with unique inspiration that can be applied to your wedding and your lifestyle.

Here's a snippet of what's featured in Wedding Style Guide - issue 8.

I absolutely love this magazine!

Discover Inhabit

Discover Inhabit. Modern, organic home goods such as bedding, pillows, lamps, stretch wall art, flats, etc. Featured on Good Morning America, O at Home and Domino, to name a few. You've got to see their products to understand their essence.

Seven Superstitions and a Wedding

We all know they exist, and most of us even follow them to the letter; we may claim to be modern and express disbelief and incredulity at people who succumb to the fear of superstitions, but when it comes to our weddings, we are too scared to throw caution to the winds and end up doing what our forefathers did – sticking to tradition. There’s something magical about weddings, something that’s not easy to put a finger on, but the traditions followed and the customs upheld contribute in a large way to this special feeling. If you’ve ever wondered how the idiosyncrasies relating to weddings were born, read on for some of the answers.

• Something old: The bride is supposed to wear something old as a sign that even though the wedding symbolizes a new beginning, the couple is not forsaking their friends and family even as they step into a new life together.
• Something new: The bridal attire must comprise something new to show a symbolic reference to new life that will bring health, happiness and success.
• Something borrowed: The bride and her family reaffirm their love and affection for each other with this tradition. By borrowing from her family (or close friends), the bride shows she’s close to them, and by returning what she borrowed, she wishes them luck even though she’s no longer with them.
• Something blue: Wearing something in blue is a throwback to ancient times when the color represented fidelity and constancy. The bride is symbolically reinforcing her commitment to the groom on this special day.
• The bridal bouquet: The groom traditionally wears a flower from the bridal bouquet in his buttonhole to symbolize that his bride is his lady and as a declaration of his love. This custom is a throwback to the days when knights roamed England and wore their ladies’ colors to show their love for them.
• Carrying the bride over the threshold: According to ancient customs, the bride must enter her new home through the main door and must not trip or fall while doing so. This led to the tradition of the groom carrying his new wife in as a way to prevent this form of bad luck from dogging them.
• White wedding gowns: White is the color that represents purity to show that the bride is a virgin (although this is not so true these days). While other colors are also featured in wedding gowns, a bride is never supposed to wear green since that’s the color that shows “loose morals” – a woman who rolled around on the grass with her various beaus was supposed to have green stains on her dress, and that’s how this weird tradition was born.

This post was contributed by Kelly Kilpatrick, who writes on the subject of the best online dating services. She invites your feedback at kellykilpatrick24 at gmail dot com.

Calling All Guest Bloggers!

I'm seeking guest bloggers to feature on the Simply Dazzling Events blog.

Guest blogger guidelines

The Simply Dazzling Events blog is all things wedding related and geared to the stylish bride. I’m looking for specific types of posts:

• posts that are interesting and relevant to brides/weddings
• pictures, pictures, and more pictures on ideas and inspiration
• research about vendors, products, services, etc
• DIY projects and tutorials on how to execute them

Try to keep in mind that I’m looking for smart, stylish, creative and diverse bloggers that:

• have a great writing style or voice
• have a great sense of style
• love to share ideas, research, diy projects and planning details
• will share pictures of the wedding day, vendor reviews, honeymoon review, etc.
  

Please submit a writing sample or link to a writing sample along with your inquiry.

Thank you for your interest.

DIY - Table Numbers

Do-it-yourself, DIY, projects can save you money and add unique personal touches to your wedding.

How great is it to have something serve two purposes as opposed to one? Mini paper photo albums will allow your guests to find their assigned tables. The albums, also, provide a unique and creative way for your guests to leave their written well wishes. You can paint the album cover to match your color scheme or theme. If you are, or have a friend who is, handy with the calligraphy pen, go to town with those album covers.

Materials You Need To Purchase:
Mini Paper Photo Album
Paper
Tape

Instructions:
Using a word processor, print out numbers using a stylish font type. Cut around each number leaving a generous border around the number. Tape the number inside the die-cut window of the paper album. Display the paper album in the center of the table for your guests to see.

These mini paper albums, available at Bliss Weddings, have heavy paper covers with die-cut windows and contrasting fabric ribbon ties that thread through the inside covers. Available colors: soft white, cobalt blue, sage, light blue, cherry, violet. Measurements: album: 5" tall x 7" wide; die-cut window: approx. 1 7/8" square.

Today's DIY idea is brought to you by guest blogger, Cheryl Galvez of BlissWeddings.

How to Personalize Bridesmaid Jewelry

Many brides purchase their bridesmaids jewelry as their “thank you” gift for being in their wedding as well as to wear for the actual wedding. While a girl always loves to receive jewelry as a gift, there are some really great ideas to personalize what you give your maids without using an initial necklace or name bracelet.

A great way to personalize your bridesmaid’s jewelry for those special friends is to purchase the same necklaces for all of your maids, but give them each their own style earrings. Many brides are opting for this method more and more this year and it’s no wonder why. Bridesmaids are not all the same and their jewelry doesn’t have to be either.

For example, say your wedding colors are browns, golds and coppers. Purchase the same necklace in that color scheme for all of your maids that looks the same, remember to size each necklace to each bridesmaid’s neck size. Then browse for earrings that match each of your maids personalities and style. Some bridesmaids love bold big jewelry and others prefer a simple look. Once you have selected all of the earrings that your bridesmaids will love, customize each pair of earrings to coordinate with the necklace (or bracelet) within the same color scheme.

Your bridesmaids will end up loving the personalized touch and time that you took to find the perfect accessory that makes them feel comfortable and beautiful. A tip – find a jewelry designer that offers the Swarovski brand of pearls and crystals, as they offer hundreds of color combinations and it is easy to find a perfect color match for your attendants dresses.

_______________________

Today's post is written by guest blogger, Bonnie of BonitaJ.com. BonitaJ.com is an online jewelry company specializing in handmade necklaces, earrings, bracelets and hairpins that are customized to fit your special needs.

Pre Wedding Party at Bloomingdales

Bloomingdales is an icon in the fashion industry because of their proven history of being ahead and on top of the latest trends in a fashion changing world. Earlier this week, Samantha Gold, of Whose Wedding is it Anyway? and celebrity plannner in her own right, guided numerous brides through the registry process at the Bloomingdale's Pre Wedding Party, in Short Hills, New Jersey.

I attended this event and had the pleasure of seeing Sam in action as she dispelled her pearls of wisdom to the numerous brides who attended the event. While I was at Bloomies I chilled with fellow Whose Wedding is it Anyway? veteran wedding planner, Jenni Orsini, Pampered Bride Weddings.

Samantha organized the Pre Wedding Party and her choice of vendors were spot on. Jersey Street Furniture created the swanky, all white lounge where Samantha addressed the brides. Visions lighting & sound created the ambiance. Barry Herman Entertainment provided live music. Mrs. B's Cakes served delicious cake. And, A Touch of Elegance provided a splash of floral decor and design.

Is Destination Wedding Shower Appropriate?

Q. I'm having a destination wedding in New York. I'm from Canada. It will only be my fiance and me. We will not be having guests. My cousin wants to throw a bridal shower for me. I don't feel comfortable about this. Should I tell her no. Same for registering for gifts. Is that an appropriate thing to do?

A. All pre-wedding parties are optional. Etiquette dictates that those invited to the pre-wedding parties should be invited to the wedding. Registering is fine because friends and family will want to give gifts. As for the cousin who wants to host a bridal shower for you, I suggest you politely decline her offer.

Registry Love - Jessica Rust Designs

Something I haven't addressed in my blog is the all important registry. Today I start a series of posts that will focus on unique registry ideas and items. The series will be entitled 'Registry Love' and will appear from time to time on my blog.

Today I give Registry Love to Jessica Rust Designs personalized dinnerware. Yep, personalized dinnerware.

Jessica Rust Designs, launched in 1993, develops and markets small-batch specialty ceramic products – from furniture and bath fixtures to dinnerware and decorative objects.

While the product line continues to evolve, it always reflects Jessica’s unique design sensibility, a combination of fluid organic form and clean, intuitive function. From their vibrant sinks and fixtures to their playful and eclectic dinnerware, Jessica Rust Designs provides ceramic accents to compliment today’s individualized interiors.

Chinese Love Dessert - $135

The set comes with four 9 ounce porcelain mugs and four 8" plates.

Love Bug Plates - $135

A set of 4 eight inch vintage Love Bug Plates. High end porcelain, dishwasher safe with out the gold. The gold is real so it is very soft and in time the dishwasher will damage the gold.

Heart Bowl Small - $120

100% of the proceeds for the sale of The Heart Bowls, small and large, will go to the American Heart Association.Personalize your bowl with an engraving in the gold, which symbolizes the heart of the bowl.The bowl is actually tilted the high side of the bowl measures 3.75" and the diameter of the bowl is 6.5 inches.

Inspiration Board

An inspiration board serves as a launching pad that will help you create the wedding you envision. This inspiration board, designed for an August 2008 wedding, was inspired by the European garden where the wedding ceremony took place. Style board courtesy of Style Me Pretty.

If you've got an inspiration board that you would like to share with our Simply Dazzling blog readers, please feel free to email it to blog@simplydazzlingevents.com. There is no such thing as too much inspiration.

The Best Man is Deceased

Q. My fiance would like to list his best friend, who died eight months ago in a boating accident, as Best Man on our wedding program. I'm not sure how to word this in the program. There will be no best man present, just the groomsmen. How do we word this?

A. You don't. A best man or attendant would have to be present and this isn't possible due to the circumstances you explained. It is best to honor his best friend another way. There could be a candle lighting and/or a flower placed on a chair. He can also be listed in the program under the other parents as "in memoriam."

Down the Aisle with Mom

Q. I'm very close to my mom and have decided that I want her to walk me down the aisle. My mom is in a wheelchair and will have my Aunt, her sister, push her down the aisle as she holds my hand as she escorts me down the aisle. Is it okay to have my mom 'walk' me down the aisle or must it be a male? My father is deceased and I don't want to pick a male figure to walk me down the aisle for tradition's sake.

A. It is completely acceptable to have your mother escort you down the aisle. The fact that she is wheelchair bound is irrelevant. You chose with your heart and that is more important than tradition for tradition's sake.

Funksational Style Anyone?

For the oober modernistas and those with eclectic tastes, I present to you Apt. The funksational furniture store located in Soho, New York. Here's a small taste of the items they carry.

Hello chair $798, Echelon wine rack $55 , Orb clock $17, Solo chaise $998 , Swear Box bank $15

Are You a Royal Bride?

Are you a royal bride? If not, have no fear Grace Kelly is here. Well not really, but Grace Kelly: Icon of Style to Royal Bride (Philadelphia Museum of Art) is. It is a must have to attain your goal to create a timeless and elegant wedding a la mega, super star Grace Kelly.

One of the most admired women in the world, Grace Kelly (1929–1982) is remembered for her beauty, poise, and style. Her “fairy-tale” wedding to Prince Rainier of Monaco in 1956 was one of the most celebrated of the century. To commemorate its 50th anniversary, this lovely book tells the story behind her wedding gown, cap, veil, shoes, and prayer book—all given by the new princess to the Philadelphia Museum of Art shortly after the ceremony.

Trivia facts: The Princess' magnificent wedding dress was designed by Helen Rose and made by MGM Studios under top secret security.