We asked Celebrity Wedding Planner and Televison star David Tutera "How did he get started wedding planning, and how did he become such a powerhouse?" Want to hear his answer? Watch the video below, and don't forget to follow us on twitter @yourenchanted
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Friday, January 13, 2012
::Going Green::
Over the years we have been hearing more and more about how to be good to our environment and how to become eco-friendly. I recently discovered that on "each one of the 2.5 million weddings this year in the United States will produce an average of 63 tons of carbon dioxide and 400-600 lbs of garbage." For what's supposed to be the most beautiful day of your life, that sure is a lot of ugly damage being done to our earth wouldn't you agree?
Well, about a week ago while scouring my twitter timeline I came across a dress designer by the name of Chrissy Wai-Ching. I decided to click on the link to her website www.wai-ching.com and my mouth fell to the floor when I saw her gowns. I mean, these designs are fascinating and I have never seen any thing like them before. They are not your typical bleached white wedding gown! They are sexy, elegant, and they pop with color...LITERALLY. With further research on her site I discovered that her dresses are eco-friendly as well, and you can't get any better than that. This inclined me to call Chrissy personally just so I could learn more. She was more than happy to talk to me and explained how her dresses created a tiny carbon footprint. Her gowns are created from organic silk or hemp and are hand-dyed using all natural dyes. The Zolotova dress (the gowns that are featured below) are a collaged style created from salvaged pieces of other dresses that would have otherwise been disposed. And, while most gowns are are shipped across the globe these are created right at her design studio in Seattle. Here's the kick, she doesn't only feature wedding gowns, but she also sells evening gowns and dresses (think about bridesmaids or a wardrobe switch during the reception), kimonos (staying true to her Chinese heritage), shawls, ring bearer pillows, and ties for the groom.
These gowns are sure to wow your guests and will definitely have them talking well past the last dance. I've been married for 2 and half years now, and if I would have found these gowns back then I think I would have been the bride who says "This is the dress!" and cried at my first fitting.
--Happy Gown Hunting....Go Green
Lauren
statistics courtesy of: Green Bride Guide
Well, about a week ago while scouring my twitter timeline I came across a dress designer by the name of Chrissy Wai-Ching. I decided to click on the link to her website www.wai-ching.com and my mouth fell to the floor when I saw her gowns. I mean, these designs are fascinating and I have never seen any thing like them before. They are not your typical bleached white wedding gown! They are sexy, elegant, and they pop with color...LITERALLY. With further research on her site I discovered that her dresses are eco-friendly as well, and you can't get any better than that. This inclined me to call Chrissy personally just so I could learn more. She was more than happy to talk to me and explained how her dresses created a tiny carbon footprint. Her gowns are created from organic silk or hemp and are hand-dyed using all natural dyes. The Zolotova dress (the gowns that are featured below) are a collaged style created from salvaged pieces of other dresses that would have otherwise been disposed. And, while most gowns are are shipped across the globe these are created right at her design studio in Seattle. Here's the kick, she doesn't only feature wedding gowns, but she also sells evening gowns and dresses (think about bridesmaids or a wardrobe switch during the reception), kimonos (staying true to her Chinese heritage), shawls, ring bearer pillows, and ties for the groom.
These gowns are sure to wow your guests and will definitely have them talking well past the last dance. I've been married for 2 and half years now, and if I would have found these gowns back then I think I would have been the bride who says "This is the dress!" and cried at my first fitting.
--Happy Gown Hunting....Go Green
Lauren
statistics courtesy of: Green Bride Guide
Sunday, January 8, 2012
This left me BEYOND speechless. I'll let the pictures do all of the talking!
Oh my gosh....Talk about inspiration and beauty?! I had to reblog this post of Style Me Pretty's Best Weddings of 2011. I am really speechless about all the details and beauty within. If your getting married or know someone who is, do yourself a favor and click the link for some inspiration! You'll be happy that you did!
Friday, January 6, 2012
Top 25 Bridal Trend of 2012 pt. 4
19. Food Trucks. Yeah, I said it. I know your thinking "What?! Thats ridiculous!" Which is part of the reason why I save this trend towards the end of the list. I really needed to figure out how to make this alluring to my reader in the best way possible. It's not my job to question the trend...I'm just reporting it so that you can stay well informed. Needless to say, food trucks are definitely buzzing around at weddings this year. Now I'm not talking about a food truck that you see on your average neighborhood corner every day selling hot dogs and 3 hour old pretzels. I'm talking about but gourmet ones. A lot of couples will be using them for outdoor weddings simply because it's quite convenient for their guests. How nice is it to just go up to a truck and order whatever you want whenever you want right? I like this idea because it brings a more relaxed vibe to what can be an uptight event (think garden party). And if you think I'm losing my marbles on this one, I just thought I'd let you know that Celebrity Chefs/Caterers Jose Garces, Stephen Starr, and David Chang are all getting into the food truck industry.
Check out this article I found: Emerging Philadelphia Restaurant Empires Large and Small
20. Family Heirloom Furniture: As I said earlier, I love vintage things but I think this takes it to a whole new level. If your having a small family wedding indoors or outdoors, perhaps you grandmothers wooden chest freshly polished can hold the place cards and guestbook, or an old hutch can hold your specialty drinks. Even if you don't have any heirlooms and this idea appeals to you, there is always thrift stores. Take a look:
21. Rustic-isms: If your an outdoorsy person, this should appeal to you. Think mason jars filled with floral arrangements, wicker chairs, and wind chimes made of bottles hanging down from trees.
22. Old World Opulence: This is another idea stolen from the Royal Wedding. Colors like gold and ivory would be your theme, heavy card stock invitations with over the top hand written calligraphy and large hanging chandeliers.
23. Custom Made Dance Floors: This one is for the bride who wants it all, and can afford it all for that matter. While the cheaper alternative suggests getting your monogram illuminated on your floor. This idea can have your initials in your floor permanently. If that's your style.
24. A Different Type of Destination: Again, this is for the bride who has a lot of money to play with. Weddings are being taken to a new level and being held on top of Elephants in India, or at the Colosseum in Rome. Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes did it!
25. Last but not least....Making your wedding a personal brand. It let's your guests know who you really are a couple. Whether it's a royal theme, vintage-rustic, or full of vibrant colors. Showing off what makes your event personal for you, and letting the charisma shine through is the best trend of all and one that I don't see going anywhere anytime soon. Let everyone know what make you...YOU.
There it is; the Top 25 Bridal Trends....Happy Planning!
Check out this article I found: Emerging Philadelphia Restaurant Empires Large and Small
22. Old World Opulence: This is another idea stolen from the Royal Wedding. Colors like gold and ivory would be your theme, heavy card stock invitations with over the top hand written calligraphy and large hanging chandeliers.
23. Custom Made Dance Floors: This one is for the bride who wants it all, and can afford it all for that matter. While the cheaper alternative suggests getting your monogram illuminated on your floor. This idea can have your initials in your floor permanently. If that's your style.
24. A Different Type of Destination: Again, this is for the bride who has a lot of money to play with. Weddings are being taken to a new level and being held on top of Elephants in India, or at the Colosseum in Rome. Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes did it!
25. Last but not least....Making your wedding a personal brand. It let's your guests know who you really are a couple. Whether it's a royal theme, vintage-rustic, or full of vibrant colors. Showing off what makes your event personal for you, and letting the charisma shine through is the best trend of all and one that I don't see going anywhere anytime soon. Let everyone know what make you...YOU.
There it is; the Top 25 Bridal Trends....Happy Planning!
Monday, January 2, 2012
Top 25 Bridal Trends of 2012 pt. 3
13. Look for bright and flamboyant color combinations to turn heads and brighten the day. Think about eye popping oranges and yellows, electric fuchsias and reds, peacock palettes, bright royal blues and even brighter golds.
14. Chalkboards: I know your probably thinking "ummm, seriously?!" Yes, I'm serious and I for one am all for things that are different. As I said earlier, letting your guests know your personality really makes your wedding a memorable day. Especially when it comes out in the original, cute and quirky fashion. Details like seating, drinks that are in your bar, or the menu for the night can be written in beautiful calligraphy with a permanent pen. That way you don't have to worry about little hands touching it or it accidentally being rubbed off.
15. Diamonds, sparkle, and all things BLING! Need I say more? Shiny stones can be added to cakes, bouquets, table decor. I think it adds that special wow factor too...as long as you don't over do it.
16. Centerpieces...that hang from above. Flowers, lighting and yes... bling can be hung from centerpieces to add fancy flair to your event.
17. Vintage, Vintage, Vintage: I love nostalgic things. Victorian dresses (see #1), brooches, birdcage veils, pearls. Think of fashion was from the Roaring 20's. Or, if that's not your quite your style maybe you have an older relative who can't make it your wedding. Perhaps you can honor them by incorporating their picture in your bouquet. You can't get anymore vintage than that.
18. Couple Trivia: Add an extra quirk of fun to your wedding by teaching your guests somethings about you as a couple that they never knew. How did you meet? What's your favorite song? Where did you get engaged? Facts like these on beverage napkins are great for conversation during cocktail hour and keeps your guests interacting with each other.
14. Chalkboards: I know your probably thinking "ummm, seriously?!" Yes, I'm serious and I for one am all for things that are different. As I said earlier, letting your guests know your personality really makes your wedding a memorable day. Especially when it comes out in the original, cute and quirky fashion. Details like seating, drinks that are in your bar, or the menu for the night can be written in beautiful calligraphy with a permanent pen. That way you don't have to worry about little hands touching it or it accidentally being rubbed off.
15. Diamonds, sparkle, and all things BLING! Need I say more? Shiny stones can be added to cakes, bouquets, table decor. I think it adds that special wow factor too...as long as you don't over do it.
16. Centerpieces...that hang from above. Flowers, lighting and yes... bling can be hung from centerpieces to add fancy flair to your event.
17. Vintage, Vintage, Vintage: I love nostalgic things. Victorian dresses (see #1), brooches, birdcage veils, pearls. Think of fashion was from the Roaring 20's. Or, if that's not your quite your style maybe you have an older relative who can't make it your wedding. Perhaps you can honor them by incorporating their picture in your bouquet. You can't get anymore vintage than that.
18. Couple Trivia: Add an extra quirk of fun to your wedding by teaching your guests somethings about you as a couple that they never knew. How did you meet? What's your favorite song? Where did you get engaged? Facts like these on beverage napkins are great for conversation during cocktail hour and keeps your guests interacting with each other.
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Top 25 Bridal Trends of 2012 pt. 2
7. These next three ideas can tie together nicely. Lighting: This isn't really a new trend, just one that doesn't seem to be going any where any time soon. It can really set the tone of your event, especially if you want a romantic ambiance. You can try pinspot lighting on centerpieces, or color wash an entire wall where the band/dj is to spark up more of a party like atmosphere. Yet, nothing whispers classy like your new monogram glowing on the dance floor.
8. Another trend borrowed from the royal wedding is the use of trees. This is a really great way to transform your reception/ceremony and give it an enchanting appeal. Perhaps, you can use them to align the sides of your aisle like the Duchess of Cambridge? Yet, the thought of replacing large centerpieces with trees throughout your venue and illuminating them with lights doesn't sound like a bad idea either.
9. Evening Ceremonies: This is another opportunity to to take advantage of the use of lighting. Evening events are a great way to battle summer heat and spark up the romance. Think of floating tea lights at every guest table, flameless candles lighting up your path as you walk down the aisle (we don't want any fires in case one may happen to get knocked over) and pretty crystals hanging from those pretty trees we discussed in #8.
10. "Hey, Let's Get Away?"-- For the couples that can afford it Destination Weddings are mighty becoming. Last year 25% of couples decided to marry on a private island, cruise ship, or a yacht. Oh yeah, in case you were wondering I have a partnership with Sandals and Beaches resorts so if you need some good rates...email me ;-) laurenwilliams@enchantedappleweddings.com
11. Don't Forget About Your Groom: These days it's not ALL about the bride anymore. Don't get me wrong it's MAINLY about the bride! However, some grooms don't want to be left out and they are finding new and unique ways to make sure their guests know it. So if your hubby-to-be decides to incorporate something in the wedding day that truly defines him...let him (as long as it's not TOO crazy). Besides, everyone loves a wedding with little bit of personality.
12. Want even more personality? Try unique escort and place cards. If your having an island themed wedding you can have names and table numbers delicately painted on a sea shell. If your wedding is local, try taking pictures of the places in the city that you and your fiancé frequent often. This could be a library, local park or art museum.
Friday, December 30, 2011
Top 25 Bridal Trends of 2012
Well the New Year is upon us and with that comes new design trends! Newly engaged couples can be excited and equally overwhelmed with just how much glitz and glamour or elegant simplicity that can go into a wedding. Nothing gets me more excited than THIS because there is so much room for creativity and individuality. Bridal designs are my forte. In addition to creating my own, I love to read about them and learn of new things to come. So, in case some of you out there were hoping for a summary, I managed to use my resources to put together this a 4 part series for you. Happy New Years!
-P.S. To my Cinderella's out there, lets hope some of your Prince Charming's get down on that bended knee tomorrow and keep you out a little past midnight eh? *wink wink.
1. Victorian styled gowns: and we can delightfully blame The Duchess of Cambridge for this one. She bought the romantic look of lace and bolero jackets back in style this year. If your aiming for a traditional wedding with a romantic theme, this is the way to go. Shop for gowns that are full or form fitting with plenty of lace, chiffon, and organza fabrics with accents of crystal beading and embroidery. You want to spice it up a little bit? Dye the crinoline of your dress to match your colors.
2. Themed engagement photo sessions: Photo sessions with your photographer give you chance to get to know each other and work out any kinks before the big day. Your pictures can show off your fun side, tell a story about how you met, or display something of deep sentiment that both you may share. You can take it even further and create wedding announcement cards with your images as well.
3. Unique Venues: Instead of holding your ceremony at a church. Try bringing your officiant a location that defines a part of who you are. Do you and your fiancé enjoy fine art? Try holding your wedding at an Art Museum. The sky is the limit with this trend and many places are willing to rent out their facilities for a fee.
4. Go Green: Be kind to the earth and reduce your carbon footprint by sending out invitations on recycled paper. If you don't like that idea, register for a charity of your choice. Instead of buying wedding favors and worrying about whether or not your guests will keep them; you can make a small donation in the names of your guests instead. It can also save you a couple of bucks.
5. Decadent Desserts: Let's face it cakes are costly so a lot of brides are beginning to use cupcakes instead and if your good at baking DIY. Sundae Bars, Chocolate Fountains, S'more Stations are also turning up and weddings are becoming big hits. They create fun memories that will have your guests talking.
6. Non traditional Guestbooks: I've seen photo frames with diamond tipped pens so that people can write their well wishes on the glass. But you can try these alternatives too.
-P.S. To my Cinderella's out there, lets hope some of your Prince Charming's get down on that bended knee tomorrow and keep you out a little past midnight eh? *wink wink.
1. Victorian styled gowns: and we can delightfully blame The Duchess of Cambridge for this one. She bought the romantic look of lace and bolero jackets back in style this year. If your aiming for a traditional wedding with a romantic theme, this is the way to go. Shop for gowns that are full or form fitting with plenty of lace, chiffon, and organza fabrics with accents of crystal beading and embroidery. You want to spice it up a little bit? Dye the crinoline of your dress to match your colors.
3. Unique Venues: Instead of holding your ceremony at a church. Try bringing your officiant a location that defines a part of who you are. Do you and your fiancé enjoy fine art? Try holding your wedding at an Art Museum. The sky is the limit with this trend and many places are willing to rent out their facilities for a fee.
4. Go Green: Be kind to the earth and reduce your carbon footprint by sending out invitations on recycled paper. If you don't like that idea, register for a charity of your choice. Instead of buying wedding favors and worrying about whether or not your guests will keep them; you can make a small donation in the names of your guests instead. It can also save you a couple of bucks.
Have your guests sign off on your favorite song or your favorite bottle of wine. It's the little personalizations in your wedding that truly make it special.
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