5 Wedding Website Pages Your Guests Will Gush Over

 

 

Once upon a Vow works with you to transform your LOVE + STORIES into unforgettable wedding vows, speeches, ceremonies, and every written word in between personalized to feel every bit like you.

 

 

You said ‘YES’ to your happily ever after and now you can’t wait to say ‘I Do’! Wishing everyone could feel your love and excitement, you brilliantly decide to build your own wedding website. But where do you start and what do you say?

 

First, pick the right wedding website platform for you. With so many WEDsite options to choose from, it’s important to figure out which one matches your needs and style. Maybe you want a free, no-frills platform that shares your wedding details and your love story. Or maybe you want more of an interactive website that helps you manage RSVPs, gift registries, and wedding photos taken by your guests. You might want a wedding website that comes with a personalized URL or one that links to your own purchased domain. There are even options, like MyWedding.com, that matches your favorite wedding website design to your wedding invitations so you can kill two birds with one stone.

Once you’ve figured out which wedding website platform works best for you, give your guests a sneak peek into your big day with these five must-have WEDsite pages.

 

1. Wedding Homepage

This will be the first page your guests will see and their first look into your wedding day so you want their experience to reflect your wedding story style. Make everything simple, uncluttered, and clear. The menu should be easy to navigate so guests can find your registry, guest book, and every page in between. Add a beautiful picture of you two with your names and wedding date front and center. Welcome your guests to your story and thank them for celebrating your upcoming wedding with you. If you’d like to add an extra touch of excitement, include a countdown clock so you can tick off the days together.
 

2. Your Love Story

Share all those serendipitous moments that brought you two together, especially the details of how you first met, your first date, your favorite things to do together, and all the reasons you’re both imperfectly perfect for each other. Add a scrolling gallery of your favorite moments and take your guests through your sweet timeline.

3. Your Proposal Story

Everyone wants to know how they asked so give them those details here. You can walk them through both your perspectives on the whole experience, like their planning process versus your emotional reaction. This is the perfect place to share your favorite engagement photos or video, if you have one. Let your personalities and quirky love shine through in both your love story and proposal story pages. It will undoubtedly make your guests excited to witness your I Do’s!

4. Wedding Day Details

Your wedding website will be your guests go to resource for all your wedding day details, especially if you’re having a destination wedding or invited many of out-of-town guests. Clearly paint a picture of what the big day will look like - when is the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception? Where will each be held? It’s important to be as specific as possible to avoid confusion, especially if there are multiple locations. Add a picture of the venue and a Google map widget so guests can be prepared and plan ahead.

5. Wedding Party

This is a great opportunity to highlight the important people in your lives, especially the members of your wedding party. Include a picture of them and a short introduction with their wedding party role (i.e. Best Man, Maid of Honor, Mother of the Bride(s)/Groom(s), etc.). Personalize each one, describing what makes them an important part of your life or tell a story about your friendship. On a more somber note, if you’d like to remember someone who is no longer here with you, include a Remembrance section dedicated to your lost loved ones. In this way, you’re acknowledging their importance in your life and giving others an opportunity to fondly remember them with you.

These five must-have pages intimately walk your guests through your journey that they wouldn’t otherwise experience until your ceremony. But with a well crafted wedding website, they can share in your excitement, bask in your joy, and feel lucky to witness this incredible moment in both your lives.

Guest Blogger/Written by: Daniela VillaRamos


Have a Sweet Day,
Clarissa

Save.The.Dates 101: Tips & Advice

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Being engaged is a exciting time! As you get closer to saying I DO, you want to create a buzz of excitement. What better way to do that is by sending out Save.The.Dates. I was inspired to write this blog post by one of my 2016 Brides, she's getting married next Summer (so exciting). Let's chit chat today all about how to properly create and send them out to all your
guests.

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What is a Save.The.Date?
 

 

A Save.The.Date can be designed in many forms and ways. But it's basically a elegant way to announce to your guests that you are getting married. This speaks volumes for your special day that's coming up, and sets the tone! Furthermore, letting them know to make plans to attend your wedding. This is exactly what you send out BEFORE the formal wedding invitations.

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Hire a Professional Paper Designer!

Please! Hire a professional that specializes in paper. The same person that is going to design your BEAUTIFUL wedding invitations; should be the EXACT same person that designs the SAVE.THE.DATES. You want everything to be cohesive, this is your wedding after all. Your wedding is one of the most amazing events (biggest events) you will plan in your lifetime. We talk about this on the Bridal Style Blog Wedding Talk Show. When you hire a professional you will get quality paper. You want a nice polished, and professional look. What you don't want is cheap paper (even the actual weight of the paper is IMPORTANT), that washes out the over look and feel of the Save.The.Date. When you have the menu cards, invitations, save.the.dates, place cards, ect you want everything to look amazing (and match).

 

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When do you send Save.The.Dates out? 

Rule: Ship out 6 months PRIOR to your wedding date.

Once you have hired a professional paper designer (aka person the specializes on making invitations, and all other wedding stationary). Also, before hand you want to allow time to have the Save.The.Dates created, which I recommend to start that process 8-12 wks (if possible) before you ship. This allows time to gather mailing addresses directly from your guest list as well. Furthermore, time to have the envelopes   "addressed" postage stamps, ect.   You are ready to ship to all of your guests. Starting ahead of time makes this process so much smoother. Also, for a special added touch you can hire a calligrapher to address your envelopes for you (makes the Save.The.Date more elegant. 

 

How should I choose my overall style? 

The style or theme should be a true reflection of you as a couple. Starting from your wedding website, to the save.the.dates, and wedding invitations. This is the gateway into your wedding day. As mentioned, earlier in the post, this sets the overall tone. Perhaps, if you are having a shabby chic, or boho style, perhaps vintage rustic, or glam wedding; the Save.The. Date should reflect just that. Also, the time of year, season of which the wedding is taking place. You want to capture the true essence of that into that Save.The.Date. Not only is this exciting for the guests, but let's them know what to expect. 

Written By: Clarissa 

 

Have a Sweet Day,

Clarissa 

Why Wine makes a great Conversation Piece

When I invite guests over for dinner We love to offer a glass of wine. Not only that, I like to have our wines displayed beautifully on our nice wine racks. We spark up conversations about the many wine tours we have attended.  There are so many awesome memories and experiences you have when you go to a winery. In today's post I want to talk about how wine is a great conversation piece. If you have not got a chance to check out previous post about the Wine, Brunch Tour ATL CLICK HERE. I have partnered with Soul Wander Travel and The Sistah Chick.

Conversation Starter- sometimes you may have friends, family, or associates that come by your home. Maybe for a dinner, special occasion, or just because. As everyone is gathered around talking, mingling, laughing, ect ... you may offer them something to drink. That's what sparks up conversation (pulling out a bottle of wine)!  You ask them what type of wine do they like reds, or white, ect... You pour their wine, and wait for their reaction to see if they like it or not. This sparks up even more conversation! I think of wine as a excellent icebreaker! We like to talk to our guests about where we get our wine from, and what ingredients it contains. We very rarely purchase wine from a store; majority of the time it's directly from a winery. 

Teasing your Palette - when wine hits your tongue you will taste the flavors, and  when you inhale, exhale all the aromas (it's a wonderful experience).  Futhermore, when going to a winery you will learn about this (ask lots of questions)! Everyone of course has different taste buds. Some prefer semi-sweet, sweet, or even dry wines. There are even some wines you can drink frozen, and even warm! Make sure you hold you wine glass properly (By the Stem ONLY, not by the bowl, your body temp will warm up the wine, you don't want that)! I will blog later on "Wine 101" so you will be ready when you attend the Wine Tour! 

Cheers & Salute - have fun when tasting wine, especially when enjoying it with others. My husband and I always find that people are really interested in our many wines. Because, the wines come from a winery there's a story to tell behind each bottle (an they taste really good). The holidays are among us, I'm sure you will be attending functions, parties, or hosting one yourself perhaps. I hope you check out my last post, about the Wine Brunch Tour ATL coming 11.15.2015! 

Written By: Clarissa

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Have a Sweet Day, 

Clarissa 

3 Reasons to attend Wine Brunch Tour ATL

I hope you had the opportunity to read the first post about the upcoming  "Wine Brunch Tour ATL"! Sunday, November 15, 2015. If not, make sure you check it out! 

FUN & Relaxing -  everyone loves to have fun (of course) and taking a break from the everyday hustle and bustle (work, school, family, kids, ect..) is very necessary. This event is perfect because you can start your week off in the beautiful wine country of Georgia. Ride comfortably on a bus (you don't have to worry about drinking and driving), kick back and enjoy the sights, and atmosphere. Don't forget there will be Swag Bags and giveaways (awesome things inside those bags) and you get to attend 3 wineries, get a souvenir glass, and lastly have a delicious brunch. Sundays are the start of a new week, and also a perfect day to eat brunch (I know I LOVE a good Sunday Brunch). Wine tasting is very relaxing and enjoyable; it's a win-win! 

Taste & Learn - not only do you have a opportunity to learn about the various wines, but you get to taste lots of wine. You get to a chance to ask questions about the wines, learn how they are made. You will learn about the reds, whites, semi-sweet, sweet, dry, ect wines. Tasting the different wine is so relaxing as well. Tasting is the best part, you get to determine what you like and dislike. Everyone's taste buds are so different, it's important to learn how to properly taste the wines. I have another blog post coming soon about that! 

You deserve it - here's a reason to get out of the house. Gather your friends, plan a girlfriends day out. Plan that special date, propose to the special someone. Grab the fellas, and head out to wine country. Why not treat yourself? We have to make time for ourselves, it's so important. You could even buy a ticket for someone else as a gift. But, know that you deserve a nice outing, take advantage of the opportunity to go before it's sold out. I hope you enjoyed these 3 reasons to attend the wine, brunch and wine tour ATL! Please, look out for future posts coming soon! 

Check out the previous post, CLICK HERE  and we look forward to seeing you at the wine tour. 

Written by: Clarissa

Photo Credit : Photo Pin
Sources: Soul Wander Travel & The Sistah Chick

Have a Sweet Day, 

Clarissa 

Wine Brunch Tour ATL

The air is getting cooler, the leaves turning colors, and falling (I absolutely love the Autumn). Fall in the beautiful south has begun! Georgia is absolutely GORGEOUS during this time of year. It's time to pull out jackets, and and plan all your Fall activities, and trips.

There are so many things always going on in the south. You may be undecided on what to do.  I can help you narrow down your options!  I know of something really exciting happening in Georgia soon! 

You may want to plan a day out with a close friend, best friend, loved one, or significant other. Perhaps, it's been a while since you planned a day out with the guys or girls. Maybe, you just want to treat yourself to a nice activity. Furthermore, you may want to plan a special surpise, maybe "propose" to the love of your life! 

I want to tell you about an amazing event, coming this November 2015.

I have partnered with  Soul Wander Travel and The Sistah Chick to host a wonderful brunch & wine tour. There will 3 Wineries, Wine tastings, swag bags, networking, a yummy brunch, photos, meeting new people, and you even get a souvenir glass!  You will have the opportunity to see Dahlonega, Georgia, and be in lovely surroundings. Dahlonega is the heart of Georgia Wine Country. Lots of beautiful mountains, and great wineries.

What's even more amazing is that transportation is provided. There will be a bus that will take everyone to the wineries. Please Click Here to get your tickets!

I look forward to seeing everyone there! 

Photo Credit: Photo Pin
Flyer Credit: Soul Wander Travel

Written By: Clarissa

Have a sweet Day,
Clarissa 

What 3 Things Grooms should do Before the Wedding Day

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You popped the big question and she said, yes of course now you are preparing for the wedding day. She's excited, flashing her ring around, calling up all her close friends and family, and spreading the good news. However, there are a few things that you may have not thought about to prepare for the wedding. As the groom you are apart of the wedding just as much as the bride.  I know you have to pick-up the tux/suit, schedule your hair cut/grooming appointment, and gather the groomsmen, best man, ring bearer, ect...in this post I will discuss three things grooms should do before the wedding day. 

   

 

 

 

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Ask in Style

 

1. You have asked the love of your life for her hand in marriage now it's time to ask the guys. The guys you choose should be meaningful in your life, and add value to you. It's such a honor to be apart of someone's wedding day. It's one of the most important days of your life, and it means so much to you and your bride.to.be.  You want to take the time to ask and follow it with a kind gesture.  Afterall these gentlemen will be spending alot of time with you on the day of. Also, investing money to participate as well.  Make it special they will feel appreciated for it. Sending a card in the mail, or letter, perhaps present a small gift.

 

 

Surprise The Bride

 

2. Surprise your bride the "Day of" the wedding, with a special gift from your heart. A hand written note, jewelry, her favorite perfume, or perhaps something that you only know that she loves. This gift will be hand delivered to her while she's getting ready for the wedding ( a member of the Wedding Party or family member can hand it to her). This will catch her by surprise she will be so happy! Also, this is great for your wedding photography as well, catching these sweet little moments.

 

 

 

 

Honeymoon Plans

 

 

3. The tradition is for the groom to prepare the honeymoon plans; however lots of couples come together and plan the honeymoon.  However, as the groom you can plan with your bride and choose the destination together. To make sure things go off without a hitch, purchase travelers insurance, and hire a professional honeymoon specialist (aka travel agent), and always confirm your travel arrangements before departure.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Written By Clarissa

 

 

Have a Sweet Day,

Clarissa

 

 

5 Reasons to Hire a Professional Make-up Artist for your Wedding

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I have been a bride, twice (I married my husband 8 years ago, and renewed with him last year). I can tell you as a wedding planner, and being a bride how value it is to hire a professional make-up artist. Not, only a professional make-up artist, but hiring someone that has experience doing make-up for a wedding. Before, we get into the meat and potatoes of this post, let's talk about how your professional wedding pictures will outlast your life time! I know it's something you probably heard on the Wedding Talk Show I co-host. But, it's true and your face is very important for your overall look. Let's also, touch on the make-up artist that is a great friend, or associate and he/she knows how to beat face (a term used in the make-up world - meaning the artist is excellent at applying make-up); however, bridal make-up is a entire different thing.  Yes, it's still cleansing the face, taking care of the skin, and applying make-up. However, on the day of a wedding you have to be swift, excellent, and know exactly what you are doing. I will explain further! Now, here are the five reasons to hire a professional make-up artist for your wedding day.

 

 

Skincare

 

1. Put you Best Face Forward - Your face is a beautiful canvas, and your skin is the largest organ in the body.  You want to protect, and take great care of it. When you hire a professional make-up artist, he/she will do just that! They will take excellent care of your skin. On the day-of the wedding you want the artist to have a wonderful healthy face to work their magic on! This begins with skincare, prepping the skin, and also diet, and exercise. The make-up artist will educate you during the bridal make-up consultation on what is recommended for you. No two brides are alike and your needs are all different, also age, skin tone/complexion, and many other factors are taken into consideration.

 

Consultation

 

2. The make-up trial -  The consultation and make-up trial will not only help you understand your skincare needs but also what you will look like on the "day of" your wedding.  The professional artist will cleanse, and moisturize your face, also lastly apply the make-up. You will discuss your overall look, and type of bridal style you have. Discuss colors, and if you are having a indoor/outdoor wedding, time of day or evening, ect Your make-up artist will learn alot about you and your wedding look.

Photo Credit

 

 

Darling You Are Worth It

 

3. Invest in yourself -  After all you are the Bride and you want to look stunning and amazing!  Think about how much you have invested in your photography, and your beautiful wedding gown, and all the other elements involved in your day.  Don't forget about yourself, because you are worth it, and you don't want any regrets after the wedding.  You hired professioals to handle everything else, but you did not take the time to hire a professional for your make-up? Absolutely NOT! Trust, me as a wedding planner, hire a professional.

 

 

Dont Hire a Friend or DIY

 

4. Don't do-it-yourself or Hire a friend -  Don't I repeat! Don't (LOL)! Don't do your own make-up for your wedding.  Even if you are a DIY Bride and you know how to do your own make-up.  This is the time to skip the DIY and leave it to a professional. Not a friend, or family member; a friend is not going to know the proper and proffesional steps it takes to execute bridal make-up. Especially when it comes down to logistics (the timing of the wedding day). On the "day of" a wedding every second, down to the minute counts. A professional make-up artist is familar with the timing of a wedding, and will apply their make-up in a timely fashion and execute swiftly.

 

RELAX

 

5. You can de-stress - When you are working with a professional make-up artist you can close your eyes and relax, enjoy your time of being pampered. You don't have to worry about your make-up, because it will be flawless. You will know that you have invested not only for beautiful make-up,and healthy skin; but for a overall experience.  Remember this the most important event you will ever plan, you want a amazing experience!

 

 

I hope you enjoyed those tips, and reasons to hire a professional make-up artist, I will blog more in the near future about bridal make-up! Stay tuned!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Written by Clarissa

 

Have a Sweet Day,

Clarissa

 

Amazing Tips for your Bridal Suite

It's the wedding day, and all the planning is complete. You arrive to your Bridal Suite and await for the day to unfold. The make-up artist, hair stylist, bridal party have all arrived. The room is Busy, mimosas, girl chit chat, hair spray, make-up brushes, garment bags filled with beautiful gowns, ect.... your dress is hanging up and all your beautiful accesories, veil, hair embellishment, ect are throughout the room. It's a lot happening all at once! In this post I will provide you with three quick tips! 

TIP #1 The list - make a list "pre-wedding" a few weeks in advance of the important items you will need for the ceremony, reception, and when you make your grand exit. 

Think about if you will change your dress, shoes (stilettos, ballerina flats, maybe flip flops -beach weddings). Don't forget about your accessories, hair embellishments, veils/blushers, ect.. All these items should be arranged in a organized fashion, and labeled. Think about what order you will change gowns, and shoes, and designate someone to keep the master list. Some brides have several dress changes throughout the wedding; traditions they implement into the ceremony. If you have additional special items that are needed for the ceremony; label them accordingly as well. 

TIP #2 Special Shots - there are items that you have purchased while engaged that you want shot on the day of. The photographer and videographer will arrive ready to capture your day. Also, shoot the wedding gown, and all the pretty elements (shoes, bracelet, garter, rings, ect...) have those items ready and available, and designate a person to handle them (especially family heirloom pieces, rings ect ...) you may want to also discuss this with your Matron of Honor and Wedding Planner so everyone is on the same page. 

Tip#3 Time - allow enough time for your bridal day make-up. At your make-up consultation your make-up artist can give you a estimated time of how long it takes. Also, factor in the bridal party's make-up application. You don't want to feel rushed, or run out of time. Same for your hair/bridal day hair stylist, ask all those key questions. If you have any last minute changes (adding on additional services) please inform your wedding planner. Being ready on time is very important for the flow of the ceremony and reception. 

Stay tuned for Part 2!

Photo Credit

Written By: Clarissa 

Have a sweet day!.

Clarissa 

Little Black Dress Party

The  "Little Black Dress Party" was hosted by me, of the The Sweetest Thing Events at a secret and private venue, here in Atlanta earlier this month.  The ladies, wore swanky little black dresses, and came ready for a night of fun! The event was very intimate, and was filled with chances to win prizes throughout the evening. This was the second LBD (Little Black Dress Party) that I organized. Also, what was incredible about this evening, I collected new/gently used shoes from the guests.  All shoe donations will go to a organization called, Our House.  I would also, like to take the  time to personally thank everyone that donated shoes! Especially Lisa of,  "Unveiled Weddings & Events in Australia; and  Kesha of, N'vogue Occasions based out of New York shipped shoes as well to be donated.

                   The Atmosphere 

As each lady entered they were greeted by Brittany (one of my awesome assistants) and handed a raffle ticket. What was really nice Sweet Nature Body Scrubs provided lip gloss, along with cute cards that tied into the theme for the ladies!  Pure Romance by Omiya had a amazing set-up for the ladies.  At each place setting, the ladies had fashion cards by  Clothe Your Curves along with games. The table was covered in red rose petals, and chocolates. The Lash Bar was set up by make-up artist,  Gabrielle Devine of "Gift of Gab" Old fashion suit cases filled with photo props as well; for the ladies to grab and take fun pictures! On hand was photographer, Josselyn of J London Images to shoot amazing photos for that evening. 

                    The Party

The party began with a warm welcome, and fun icebreaker. The ladies were very engaged, and interactive.  There was also a fun themed signature drink available for the ladies, along with catered little bites. The signature drink was called, "The Red Room of Pain" based off the movie, Fifty Shades of Grey. We played a virtual game (online game), which was by the fabulous "Clothe Your Curves"! This was so cool, and her fashion cards she custom designed were a hit at the party! One lucky lady won a awesome prize provided by one of my great sponsors. As the evening progressed, the guests mingled, got their make-up, and lashes done. I gave out the Swag Bags with a fun surprise inside (provided by Dvus Photography).  Pure Romance by Omiya presented; which included a Q & A segment, and more! We wrapped the evening up with more giveaways, and each lady was given a gift as we bid our farewells. Stay tuned for more about this event, I will post professional photography by J London Images soon!

I cannot make these events happen without amazing professionals.  All of them gave gifts/prizes from their hearts.

 I have listed everyone involved in the event below. Special thanks to Brittany, for coming to assist me with the event. She's amazing, and, made everything smooth for that evening. Also, I have to say a big thank you to J London Images  for capturing the event.

Professional Vendors/Sponsors:
Gabrielle Devine Gift Of Gab,LLC

Pure Romance by Omiya

Cakes by Shupan 

Sweet Nature Body Scrubs

Yep Racism Sucks

Dvus Photography

Clothe Your Curves
J London Images

Written by: Clarissa 

Have a Sweet day, 

Clarissa 

                

Five Things I wish I knew Before Buying a Veil

Confession, I had no intention of wearing a veil. I know, crazy right! The truth is when I was engaged, all I pictured when I thought of a veil was the giant puff of tulle on a headband. Long story short, I did learn a few things about veils that I think you should know!

1. You aren't stuck with the traditional veil.

There are so many different types of veils. If the giant puff on the headband is your style, awesome, rock it! If not, have no fear, there are many more options. There are short veils, longs veils, puffy and drape-y veils. They come in all shades and fabrics, and can have any number of embellishments on them. So don't give up on the veil just yet! There is one that is just your style.

2. Veils can be 100% custom made...without breaking the budget!

I knew I could have a veil made exactly like I wanted. What I didn't know was that it didn't have to cost my right arm to have it made. Etsy is a fabulous invention! As much as I would love to make your custom veil, I will not deprive you of the vast world of Etsy Bridal Accessories. You can have it made to match your dress, or even incorporate some of your mom or grandmothers veil/dress in the design. The options are almost endless!

3. Veil lengths

Veil lengths can be confusing, and sometimes vary from designer to designer. Here is a general guideline to give you an idea of what to order:




You can also see my page on Lengths and Lingo on my website here.

4. You can get a detachable headpiece.

I wanted a really long veil, but opted for a short one instead because I didn't want to spend money on something I was only going to wear for the ceremony. I had no idea that I could have a veil made with a detachable headpiece! It's the best of both worlds! Wear the long veil for the ceremony then just detach it from the headpiece for the reception. You still have a little something gorgeous in your hair and you don't have to lug around a long, heavy veil all night! Perfection!

5. Your style is the right style.

I have brides ask me all the time if the veil they want is "right for them." Yes. You will look 10x more amazing in the veil that you love, as opposed to the one your sister's best friend's mom loves. If you want a birdcage veil, but think you look ridiculous in it, get it custom made. Chances are having it made a little bigger or smaller will make it look just right! Really this applies to your whole look. The only opinions that really matter on your wedding day are yours and your man's. Be you. Confidence is your most attractive quality!

 

 

 

Romantic tips on Dating, Love & Keeping the Spice in your a Relationship

During engagement season I collected dating advice from several couples, single individuals, married couples, and newlyweds. I called, associates, a old high school classmate, close friends, family, in-laws, small business owners, past clients, wedding planners and even my Mother & Father that been married almost 50 years their thoughts!

It was very interesting to get everyone's advice on love, dating, and romance! I hope you enjoy these awesome tips as much as I did! Many thanks to everyone that participated. 

"Hold hands, kiss often, enjoy pillow talk before going to bed, openly communicate with each other, surprise each other, plan spontaneous trips together, schedule the same days off together." - Clarissa 

"You have to be able to communicate, and be able to trust. If a person knows they can trust you, they feel comfortable. Lastly, be dependable." - Father 

"Do things with your husband, plan things together as a couple, Including problem solving. " -  Mother 

"Don't over spend in the beginning of your marriage." Everything you put into your marriage early on, will benefit when you get older." - Mother 

"You have to build on your marriage, always think of your spouse (husband /wife). Plan a special date night once a week ( it doesn't have to be expensive) " Mother 

 

"Give your mate an unexpected  massage.." - Nikki 

"A really  good meal with lots of sides and a homemade dessert!" - Sherita 

"Little things go a long way.

Pull out the special things that speak louder then any words , this helps reassure your special bond. " - Shontae 

"Surprise him every few weeks with little things he likes (example: pineapple aloe water),socks, tee-shirts; small things; less than $30 total. Even a romantic or sweet card and write a personal message in it" - Sherita 

"Well I make it a point try different places, alone not in a group setting; and make sure I look really nice, flirt, and give him compliments "  - Sherita 

"Don't stick to the same routine, change things up. Surprise each other every now and then. Keep the fire lit in the bedroom"  -Angleak 

"Communication very important."- Angleak 

"take vacations without the kids "- Tenesha 

"Plan monthly dates" - Tenesha 

"Love notes (socially or personally like text msgs or hand written Facebook) or favorite candy "-Tenesha

"Make sure u take time out to enjoy each others company " Angelica 

"Have Date Nights" - Angelica 

"Let them complete their sentences without interruption; that shows you are listening to what they have to say.  "- Farrah 

"Don't get into what you like and dislike; don't complain. Be attentive and open minded" - Farrah

"Don't get too personal on the first date"- Farrah 

"Keep it cordial and simple, enjoy the first moment" - Farrah

"Listen to him. Learn everything about him". - Aisha 

"Sexy lingerie and role playing."  Aisha 

"never do the same thing for to long switch it up; from the bedroom to going places. Always, try to create new experiences with each other." - Celena 

" Give yourself time to miss each other." Shunda"

"Schedule regular couples quality time."- Arie

"Have date nights!! Dress up go out; just the two of you, enjoy and have a good time" - Erica 

"While engaged learn to plan a specific night each week as a couple not to wedding plan: instead plan a special date night" - Dana 

 

Have a Sweet Day, 

Clarissa



Written by: Clarissa
Photography Source
 

Date Night Jar

Couples are always going out on dates, and sometimes they can't decide where to go. There are so many options, places to go, and things to see. Especially, in the south! Here in Atlanta, Georgia the options are endless. I will teach you howł to make a quick and easy Date Night Jar! It's very fun to do and it requires a few materials.

Materials: 

Jar 

Label

Cardstock/Paper

Pen/Marker 

Popsicle Sticks

Ribbons

Here are 3 easy steps: 

1) On wooden popsicle sticks and or small pieces of paper. You will write down places you and your significant other like to go.

2) Next, you can order from a local print shop or have them custom made. Perhaps, you can get creative and make your very own!

3) Place all of your date night ideas in the jar. Get creative, and wrap ribbons around the jar, and attach the label. 

I hope you enjoyed this short tutorial, and have lots of fun making your date night jar! This will come in handy when you can't think of anywhere to go on those hot date nights!

I would love to hear your feedback about your date night jar!
 

Have Sweet Day, 

Clarissa

Written By: Clarissa 

Photography Source

 

Orange Moon Beauty

I am so excited, to present Orange Moon Beauty  to you. The owner Sherita, and I met about was about 4-5 years ago  (when I first started my natural hair journey) I attended a local natural hair event; here in Atlanta. I have followed her wonderful journey,  and the products are absolutely amazing! Not, only does she create handmade fresh all natural products but she is a talented Make-up Artist.  She participated in my networking event last year (bringing her awesome products for the guests to sample). She's beautiful inside and out, and I'm honored that I had the opportunity to interview her.

Furthermore, she's a newlywed, and I recently had a pleasure to meet her husband. What a beautiful couple! Also, when she makes her products, you can see all the love she pours into them. On any given day you can check out her social media pages; and just see her making whipping some up! I have personally myself tried her products, and they are wonderful (I felt pampered)! 

Interview

Clarissa: Greetings, please provide us with TIPS of how to take care of your skin. 

Sherita: To care for your skin it is important to do 3 simple steps. 

Cleanse: We suggest our Liquid Black Soap

Exfoliate: You should exfoliate at least once weekly! This removes dead skin and helps with pesky ingrown hairs.

Moisturize: You must retain moisture, this can be done with body products as well as by drinking plenty of water. Our Body Butter Cream, the Oils Blend are great for maintaining and restoring moisture to the skin.

Clarissa: What are the benefits of your products, and the benefits of the ingredients? 

Sherita: Our products contain natural oils and fragrances. Our favorite oils are Olive Oil, Vitamin E and Coconut Oil. Vitamin E is used for hyper pigmentation that often becomes a problem as women reach their 30's. Coconut Oil is such a nurturing and softening oil.

Clarissa: What is your favorite product?

Sherita: I love our Liquid Black Soap! It is such and cleansing and healing soap that can be used as a shampoo as well! We have the most amazing a invigorating scents! This product does not leave your skin extra dry and tight! It is perfect for eczema, psoriasis, acne and any skin irritations. Easily use this head to toe! In locs and dreads;  our scents last up to 1 week!

Clarissa: what inspired you to make these products?

Orange Moon Beauty products are inspired by the want and need for natural based products that are handmade with good intentions. I have always been a very blended person, blending my natural self with glam, or my style has never been just one thing or categorized because as individuals many of us and not just one thing. We are many things that make us great! There are plenty of women who desire beauty products that are luxurious, naturally. We will be offering our products in designer fragrances. I am inspired by naturally fabulous ladies and gentlemen.

Clarissa: Where did the inspiration for the name come from? 

Sherita: Orange Moon Beauty comes from the song  Orange Moon by Erykah Badu because I reflect the light from the sun. 

Sherita: As I grow and connect to myself and others this song elevates me to the next level in find my/our true self. My husband and I share and amazing connection he has helped me become brighter than I have ever been! As a musician his stage name is "Sunshine Brown" and he is indeed my never ending Sunshine.

Clarissa: When did you create this line? 

Sherita: Orange Moon Beauty has been around for just about a year now.

Clarissa: What are your future projects you have coming up? 

Sherita: In the 2015 we will be adding more handmade and natural based products to our line, including soy candles, all natural deodorant, bath soaks, incense blocks, sage bundles and more themed spa series! Long term we wish to open a small boutiques where you can read, relax have tea and pick up those things that create a very specific lifestyle.

Clarissa: How can someone place a order? Lastly, let us know how we can stay in contact with you. 

Orange Moon Beauty 

Instagram
Website

Further Information: 

Justin & Sherita Thomas Email: Goddessgrind@gmail.com or you can email us thru our site.

Interview by: Clarissa

Have a Sweet Day!

 

Clarissa