New Year Eve Inspirations

Happy Wedding Wednesday! The countdown for 2015 is tonight! This is my last blog post for 2014, WOW what a incredible year.  I cannot wait to bring you more great content next year! Today, I wanted to bring to you some fabolous New Years Eve inspirations. The holiday is surrounded with lots of glitter, confetti, and glam! Also, New Year Eve themed weddings, social events, and big spectacular parties. Here at The Sweetest Thing Events we are excited about the new year. Enjoy these inspirations and perhaps you can incorporate some into your own celebrations.

 

Photo Source

Imagine celebrating the New Year in this beautiful sequin dress, covered in gold, it's very gorgeous and perfect for a night out of celebration.  Imagine arriving to a party, and dancing the night away in this dress. I love how it's paired with a clutch purse, and bracelet.

 

Photo Source

New Years Eve parties are about the eye candy ( the pretty decorations) and you can WOW your guests with unique decor! When hosting a New Years Eve themed party you want to create a fun, festive atomosphere! Here's a awesome idea to implement if you love to do DIY projects! I love the GOLD!

Photo Source

 

I was inspired by this beautiful bridal bouquet perfect for a blushing bride as she exchanges vows on New Years Eve! The colors are so soft and beautiful, and the bottom is wrapped so lovely in gold sequin. Lots of sparkle, and shine, and any Bride will dazzle as she carries this bouquet throughout the wedding day!

Photo Source

Here's a sassy, short sequin, and pretty "Cut the Cake" dress, perfect for the curvy bride. The golds, blacks, and shimmer make the dress shine. Also, this dress is great "after the wedding" as the bride exits the reception on New Years Eve night! 

Photo Source

Make the grand entrance into the wedding ceremony FUN! Here's a great way to bring out the theme of the New Year by adding shining stars into the aisle.   When the wedding guests enter the wedding ceremony they will love to see all the pretty stars in the aisle.  This will be a fun conversation piece as well for the guests, and will make ROCKIN wedding photography.

 

 

 

 

Also, for more inspirations, tips and more please CLICK HERE thank you!

 

 

Happy New Year!

2015

Have a Sweet Day,
Clarissa


Written by: Clarissa The Sweetest Thing Events

It’s Date Night! What are You Wearing?

Greetings!

I'm so pleased to have my first guest blogger on the BLOG! This is exciting because the  topic of date night styling and fashion goes perfect with engagement season. Love is in the air! Enjoy!

By: Lei-Loni Greenhow of Fashion blog Clothe Your Curves

I love any reason to dress up and feel girlie, so bring on Date nights! Going out with my husband tends to be on the casual side, but once in awhile I get all dolled up.  For relationships new or more seasoned, dates nights can be a great a way to spend time moreor reconnect with your partner, and it doesn’t hurt to look good while doing it! Now let me clarify, looking great does not mean dressing completely out of character. Wearing heels or a body-con dress to create this fantasy look on your first date can be nice, but if you’re not comfortable; you’ll be pulling and wobbling all night! The focus should be on having a good time and not how uncomfortable you feel.

Perfect example, when I was in college I went on a date with a guy who I met at a home improvement store. When we met, I was wearing jeans, an over-sized shirt and some sneakers. You know, comfy stuff. On the date, I listened to my friends and went all out (in our early 20’s mindset)! Fitted shirt, tight jeans, heels, make-up; I thought I was doin’ it! His reaction; surprised of course, but as the date progressed my shirt kept rolling up, my “tight” jeans were way too tight, and our long romantic stroll was cut short, because my feet hurt. He could tell I was uncomfortable, and what made it worse was him telling me that he was expecting for me to look the way I did when we met! The moral of this story is BE COMFORTABLE, and most of all BE YOURSELF!

With that in mind, checkout some of these date looks and see if one speaks to you!

Lunch Date

If you're still one of the lucky few that take more than a half hour lunch, why not try a casual lunch date? Great for first dates or a chance to reconnect!

Photo Source

Casual Date Wear

Date night does not always mean getting dressed up. You can feel just as amazing in a pair of boyfriend jeans and a tee!

              

 Photo Source

So Fancy

Planning to go somewhere special or a few notches above your normal dining routine? Get fancy in this gorgeous look!

    
Photo Source

What’s are some of  your favorite date night looks? Does your spouse/fiancé have a favorite they love to see you in?

Find More from Lei-Loni on:

Blog

www.clotheyourcurves.wordpress.com

Instagram

www.instagram.com/clotheyourcurves

Twitter

www.twitter.com/clotheurcurves

Marsala - Pantone Color of 2015

 

                                                                      Photo Credit

 

It was great to learn of the 2015 Pantone color of the year!  I heard the big annoucement and was very excited to learn what the new color was ( it's pretty). The color Marsala 18-1438 is very natural, full of richness, and is a pretty reddish-brownish color.  This is perfect for the Winter /Fall weddings due to the deep hues in this color.  I think brides would like this for Valentine's Day. I will show some different ways that Marsala can be incorporated in the wedding day.  

 

                                                                         Photo Credit  

                                                                      

 

Photo Credit

 

When I see a color such as Marsala I think of love and romance, and these inspirations boards display how beautiful the color is. The color is sensual, and romantic!  I cannot wait for one of my brides to utilize this color in their wedding day.  This color is going to beautiful for 2015 as brides implement the color throughout their event design.  Pictured below is a beautiful cupcake ( I can only imagine how pretty the dessert bars will be with this color)!

Photo Credit

 

 

                                                                             Photo Credit 

 

 

                                                                          Photo Credit

This bouquet is very elegant, and beautiful I love how the pretty Marsala is displayed here. Lots of pretty pink, white, and other deep fall colors, along with the  greenery throughout the floral design.

                                                                            Photo Credit

Now that I have given my thoughts on Marsala, please share your thoughts in the comment section below. Please, don't forget to subscribe to my BLOG!

Have a Sweet Day,
Clarissa

Written by: Clarissa The Sweetest Thing Events

Romantic Trips & Cyber Monday

                                                                     Photo Credit

We all love the latest gadget, iPad, tablet, electronics, flat screen, or game system during Black Friday, and Cyber Monday. Not only can you catch deals on those items; but also on ..... (Drum roll).... Romantic getaways!

We are in engagement season, and this is the time for love, and romance! Also, Cyber Monday is a perfect opportunity to grab lots of deals on trips! Perhaps, it's a place you and your significant other love to go. Also, it could be a place that you two have always "wanted" to go. Maybe, you could book a trip and make it a surprise getaway for later next year. 

Don't miss out! Start searching and find some awesome deals! 

Tip:  To find the Cyber Monday travel deals, search your favorite travel sites! 

Happy Planning!

Please check out "How to Write a Love Letter" which is apart of my romance series! Also, if you want to plan a romantic staycation CLICK HERE .

Have a Sweet Day, 

Clarissa 

By: Clarissa The Sweetest Thing Events

How to Write a Love Letter

                                                                             

We are currently in the season of love and romance, with Engagement season being close; I want to introduce everyone into the art of letter writing.  I love to write, and there is nothing more heartfelt than writing a love letter. I want to talk about how to write a beautiful love letter. Here's a few tips, and advice!

Go purchase nice paper- buy some pretty stationary paper, and coordinating envelopes. Think about how you want to set the tone. Plain paper will work as well, it's totally up to your personal taste. 

Set the mood - find a quiet place, someplace that's very calm, and relaxed. You want to be able to think clearly about what exactly you want to write. Turn on your favorite music, and take your time; collect your thoughts.  Think about how much you love your significant other, and how much they mean to you. 

Put the pen to the paper-  as you begin writing (DO NOT email, or text; handwritten only). I want you to write down all your thoughts and emotions, explaining your love on paper.  Include special moments and memories you have shared together. Also, talk about the romantic future you look forward to sharing together.  The letter can be short or long, and always seal it with a kiss! Always, make sure you proofread the letter.


The most special moment is delivering the love letter! Seal it in a nice envelope, or place it in a small box wrapped in tissue paper. If you want a added, extra touch mail the letter (think of ways to make it really special). Ask the post office for stamps that consist of hearts, or something involved with love.

Tip: Spray the love letter with your favorite perfume, cologne, or body splash ( for the ladies put on some lipstick and leave some kisses on the letter).

                                                                     

   

If you would like to read more romantic tips and more CLICK HERE also check out my romance series  Part 1  and Part 2 !

Have a Sweet Day,

Clarissa 

Photo Credit: Hallmark.com
By: Clarissa The Sweetest Thing Events

How to Plan a Romantic Staycation

A staycation is a option where couples can stay in their own city or town, and vacation. Perhaps, book a local Bed & Breakfast, Hotel Room, or Spa & Lodge. 

Here in Georgia there are lots of mountains, cabins, cottages, lodges, beaches, beach houses, villas/condos, beach/resorts, and so many options for a staycation. 

The option or endless, you just have to get creative and talk with your significant other. Make plans to enjoy your own city and town.  Think about places you always wanted to go or heard about (romantic places). 

Here are 3 tips on, how to plan a romantic staycation. 

#1) Choose the location - the location is everything, think about where you want to go. Perhaps, it's a hotel, bed & breakfast, ect... once you decide, call and make the reservations. Also, asking about romance packages, a la carte services. Consider asking about turn-down services, champagne and chocolates, butler services, spa/massage, ect...

#2) Choose the activities ... ask the about complimentary shuttle services (if available) perhaps there are some restaurants in the area. Look online for local events, festivals, and activities. Make reservations to have a romantic breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Inquire within where you are staying and see if it's a restaurant within the place. 

#3) Add in the romance - plan to spend quality time together.  Add in a special touch ( write a love letter before your staycation). Give your significant other the love letter during your stay. Download your slow music music on your iPod, laptop, tablet, or smart phone (love songs).   Bring a camera and snap quick pics of each other ( don't use your cell phone camera). Have un-interrupted conversations (stay off your phone while spending time with each other).

Tip: While you are away enjoying this time together start making plans for the next getaway, or Staycation. This makes planning exciting, and gives you two a opportunity to brainstorm together. 

Have a Sweet day, 

Clarissa 

5 Winter Dating ideas

Photo Credit

Baby it's cold outside! Here at The Sweetest we are blogging all about love and romance! Engagement season is in full swing, and we are really excited. 

Today, we will talk about 5 fabulous winter date ideas! 

Note: These are some of my recommendations for places here in Georgia! Below are some of my husband's and I favorites! 

#1) Iceskating - why not go out and hold hands together. Grab a cup of hot chocolate (dress warm), and hit the rink! Here in Georgia I love Atlantic Station's iceskating rink ( wrap your arms around each other's waist and have fun). 

#2) Coffee Shop - a fun way to sit, and lounge together on your smart phone, or tablet and surf the net on wifi. Order your favorite warm beverages, and hangout together. One of my favorites is Starbucks (of course) or Java Monkey Decatur, Georgia ( great conversations can be sparked in coffee shops).

#3) Draw & Sip together - Create a Canvas located in southeast Georgia in the city of Lithonia. It's certainly a perfect date night full of drawing and sipping on your favorite wine (BYFW - Bring Your Favorite Wine!!!)! 

#4) Go grab something SWEET - We love Cafe Intermezzo dessert, a wide selection of cakes, cheesecakes ( always different flavors). We also love to dine here ( Super Romantic) when you enter it's dimly lit with candles ( a beautiful and intimate place), and in the winter months the outdoor patio is well heated. What's great, is there are two locations to choose from. 

#5) Wine Tasting - attend a wine tasting together. There's a monthly wine tasting in the Virginia Highlands area, one of the most romantic places in Georgia! The place I love is called, Java Vino ( I know I love the Coffee Houses). Here they offer wine tastings, venue space, and great coffee. Inquire within for the next monthly tasting. 

If you enjoyed these tips please don't forget to leave a comment below. For more romantic tips Click Here

Have a Sweet Day, 

Clarissa 

Romance Series Part - 2

Photo Credit

We will continue the romance series with "How to plan a romantic drive around the City"! Love is everywhere, men all over the world are popping the question ( Will you Marry Me)! This is the season of cold, chilly weather (cuddle weather).

Couples are making romantic plans, and spending more time together. Here I will give some tips on getting out for a day together. You will learn some romantic ways to take a little mini tour around your own city! 

#1) Plan your route - think about, where your favorite spots as a couple. Places you like to eat, spend time, window shop or grab a quick dessert, JUMP out there and try something new! Choose 3-5 places to go! Program them all in the GPS and you two are ready to hit the CITY.

#2) Grab your coats, scarves, gloves, and a hat ( you want to stay nice and warm), make some hot chocolate ( or warm drink you prefer). Buy your "love" a new mug ( or coffee cup) this will be a sweet gesture. Exchanging gifts right before you two hit the road is a COOL idea too ( buy each other thick socks, ear muffs, ect...)

#3) HOP in car - head to your destinations ( STAY OFF THE CELL PHONE) only use it to take pictures together ONLY!  Talk to each other, make present and future plans together. Really take in your surroundings, and snap pictures. Furthermore, make the trip in the car a experience ( remember you are creating memories). Hold hands in the car, laugh, tell each other jokes, kiss, hug and have fun! 

Please stay tuned for Part 3 of the Romance series! Check out Part 1 for more romantic inspiration.

 Send all your romance questions to sweetestthingevents@live.com 

Romance Series Part-1

 Photo Credit

 Happy Novemeber everyone! The Fall is here and "Engagement Season has arrived. Love is in the air, and that means there's a lot of romance, and marriage proposals this time of year.

I'm going to give 3 quick tips on how to plan a romantic surprise for that special someone in your life! 

#1) Think about what the love of your life likes. If it's a particular hobby, or place they love to go, or maybe it's a favorite food. Make sure when you are making your special plans; incorporate what they love. 

#2) The best things in life are free ( I know you have heard that old saying).  Well, it's true, you can write a love letter, write a poem, or perhaps tell them exactly how you feel, and express your love to them. Either, way the message will be received by them in a warm, and heart felt way. 

#3) Lastly, is the surprise itself; after thinking about everything your significant other loves now it's time to pull the details all together.  Plan a special day to pull off the surprise! You can mail them a post card with all the details (time, location, date) or tell them where to meet you! Make the day romantic and fun; enjoy!

Check out Part 2 for more romance tips and more! 

Send all your romance questions and inquires to sweetestthingevents@live.com

Have a Sweet Day,
Clarissa

Fall Inspired Signature Cocktails

Happy Fall everyone! This is the time of year for cooler nights, and crisp morning air, the time of year to prepare for the holidays, and Autumn themed weddings and events.

Source: Pinterest

Source: Pinterest

Autumn Cocktails

 

Fall weddings are exciting and beautiful, and implementing the perfect signature drink into your reception, is a great conversation piece for guests. Also, as you think about your pre-wedding plans (engagement party, bridal brunch, rehearsal dinner) perhaps you want to a great tasting signature drink!

Check out a these two Fall inspired cocktails!
{CLICK under the photos to access the recipes}

          Grown Folks Hot Chocolate 

 

Pumpkin Pie Martini

 

Enjoy! Also, feel free to comment, I would love to hear about your favorite Fall beverages!

     



 

Have a sweet day, 

Clarissa 

Featured Vendor: "The Wedding Stylist"

                   Abbria McWhite 

I had the opportunity to conduct a interview with Abbria McWhite, Owner of "The Wedding Stylist"  (formally "Middle of Fashion").  McWhite, she's a ROCKING and amazing stylist! Her experiences include being a fashion editor, lead stylist and she styles Brides, Grooms, and more! 

Clarissa :What's the name of your company?

Abbria: The current name of my company is Middle of Fashion. However, I am going through some branding changes; and a new name will be launched in about 30 days!  The new name will be The Wedding Stylist. 

Clarissa: How did you come up with the name of your company?

Abbria: Honestly, it wasn’t that cool of a process. I was sitting in my room watching NCIS Los Angeles and was thinking about my business as usual. 

The Wedding Stylist just popped in my head. It sounded so simple so I ran it past a few colleagues. They loved it so I started working on the legal aspect. Boom there it is! 

Abbria McWhite

 

Clarissa: What's your slogan, and how did you come up with it?

 

Abbria: “Love fashion… Exude style”. I wanted to make sure my slogan really said something. A lot of people think fashion is about high-end designers and spending tons of money. But to me it is all about how you wear your garments no matter the cost or the label attached to it. So love the fashion and all the newest and hottest trends but exude style meaning make sure you still love it, and it speaks to who you are and the image you want to portray. 

Clarissa: What's your overall "niche"?  

Abbria: My “niche” is all things style & weddings. I style the entire wedding party from the blushing bride to the Mother-of-the-Bride (MOB). I also style for engagement shoots, bridal showers and any other event attached to the wedding. I assist with style shoots for magazines and wedding planners; as well offer “lady in waiting” services for the day of the wedding. 

  Bridal Styling by Abbria McWhite

       Bridal Styling by Abbria McWhite 

Clarissa: What inspires you?

Abbria: Oh gosh so many things and people!  God, true love, nature, people who are fearlessly themselves despite it all, and of course the common things such as fashion blogs, designers, gorgeous fabric and some interior design.


Clarissa: How long have you been a Stylist? 

Abbria: Probably waaaaaaa longer then I have actually been in business lol !! I was always the friend to ask what goes with what or how I pull off the newest trend. But I started blogging and working with local magazines late 2010.

Clarissa: What inspired you to get into the field of Styling?

Abbria: Well, It all started with my frequent goodwill hunting. My co-workers would often compliment me on my outfits and would ask me where I got them and a lot of the times it was from goodwill! So eventually they would give me money and I would go shop for them.  It started from one coworker and it just grew. 

Clarissa: What service do you offer in terms of Styling Brides and Grooms?

             S. Marche Photography 

            S. Marche Photography

Abbria: Weddings and style are both such personal experiences. When you combine them it becomes even more personal. For that reason most of my packages are easily customizable. However As far as styling I am there from beginning to end. I prefer to meet with you and your wedding planner so that I have an understanding of the style of the wedding and make sure your attire is appropriate. Depending on the services requested I style every piece of your ensemble from the veil to the shoes or for the groom from the bowtie to the cut of the suit. I help locate a seamstress, lead you to places that are in your price range recommend websites that fit your style and price range as well as help make sure every tiny detail is thought of in regards to your garment; how it looks as well as how it will functions for the big day!!!!
 

Clarissa: Please, take us on a journey into the day and life of "Styling" services. 

Abbria: Most days consist of research on new websites, visiting bridal salons, looking at blogs and wedding industry trends. I love IG for a quick way to see new trends. Some days I look through my own closet and make outfits just so I can keep my brain sharp.  I browse magazines, visit local boutiques and even go to local stores and put together outfits on fun days I buy them.. HA! My favorite days are the ones where I get to meet new clients or go to networking events. Being a stylist has a lot to do with personal relationships; building and maintaining them. Besides meeting new people is always a good idea!  

Clarissa: What advice would you like to lend to Brides and Grooms about Styling? Why do you feel it's important to have styling incorporated into their wedding plans?

Abbria:  I would say hire a professional lol. Not having to worry about what you are going to wear to every event for your wedding is a huge weight lifted!  

Photography is a substantial expense (worthy of the cost) when it comes to planning a wedding. If that’s important, think about how important it is for you to look timeless and well put together in those photographs. Stylist are aware of little things you may not think of such as your body type, the right colors for your skin, how your garment will photograph etc. 

 

Clarissa: Tell us about your background (education, experiences, internships, ect...)

My education background is in Sports Science. I just knew I was going to be a physical therapist. HA!  I did an internship and hated it! But we all know by the time you have done an internship it is way too late, and way too costly to change your major. So I graduated college and started looking for my passion. Funny thing... it found me. Like I said, I was just doing what I love dressing up and shopping. People noticed and so it all began.  Interestingly, enough most of my experiences have been self-created through God’s grace! After I discovered my passion I searched to find ways to get experience. I started my own blog. Through some contacts I became a Fashion Editor for a local magazine in Greensboro, NC named HUAMI.  I wrote as a fashion contributor for Session magazine. I also became a lead stylist at Dress for Success in Winston Salem. All of these experiences have been such a blessing and have taught me so many things. I always tell people to smile and enjoy humble beginnings. They keep you humble once your business grows and they remind you to lend a hand when you see someone else starting their journey! 

              Brandi Myers Photography

            Brandi Myers Photography

Clarissa: Do you have in upcoming projects? Any news you would like to share about your company.

 Abbria: I am so excited about so many things. I just recently moved to the Atlanta market and I am seeing a ton of growth for my business. I just confirmed a few days ago that I will be blogging for Blackbride.com.which is such an honor and blessing. Yeaaaaaaaa J!!!!  As I discussed before I am also going through a branding change which is a fun yet stressful experience but I am so excited to see the entire vision of "The Wedding Stylist"  come to fruition. I am also looking forward to working with new clients and weddings that I have coming up later in the year. Meeting new couples who are so in love is so refreshing!!!

Clarissa: What's the best way to stay in touch with you? 

Abbria: Some of my contact information will be changing however all of the old info will lead you to the new fun stuff!!

Contact: 

(website) www.middleoffashion.com

(phone) 770-906-1529

(email) middleoffashion101@gmail.com

(Instagram) Bria_betena
(Facebook) Middle of Fashion

By: Clarissa, The Sweetest Thing Events

Photography Credits: 

 Brandi Myers Photography

S. Marche Photography 

Have a Sweet Day,

Clarissa