Winter Wedding Fun

Happy New Year Everyone! 2016! 

Wow, last year was amazing, so many wonderful weddings, social events, engagements, engagement photo shoots, charity events, networking, New York bridal fashion week, speaking engagements, and more took place! I worked with some amazing clients, couples, and super excited for what 2016 holds! Furthermore, in the next several blog  posts I will be reflecting on the previous year (2015).  It's been a little while since I posted;  my last post was by Once Upon a Vow, Daniela VillaRamos she's amazing! I have been away working on some exciting things for, The Sweetest Thing Events! It has been a great year, and I'm looking forward to 2016. However, before I drop any hints, I want to talk about winter weddings. Let's take a look at some winter wedding ideas, wedding fashion and more!

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Create a romantic mood with a cute flowing vintage, long tutu skirt. Lovely,  pretty white tutu is perfect for a modern wedding. You will be glowing in your wedding pictures as you wear this skirt. I love the way this picture is captured with the couple. 

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As guests enter your wedding, you want to have great signage. Remember this sparks up great conversation among your guests. Immediately following the ceremony you can implement the signage into your post wedding photography. 

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Winter weddings are so pretty, with all the snow, pine cones, snowflakes, makes for a dazzling backdrop. 

Wear a beautiful petticoat with your wedding gown. It looks amazing, and will keep you warm. The day will be full of pictures, and marital bliss. You want to stay nice and cozy. 

Stay tuned for more hints on what's coming soon to The Sweetest Thing Events! I hope you enjoyed these winter wedding tips! 

Written by: Clarissa 

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

Unveiled

There are so many things vying for your attention while planning a wedding. The venue, the photographer, the invitations, the dress- I just gave some of you an anxiety attack just listing them! Take a deep breath. This post is about one simple, light, airy thing: the veil.

Say Yes To The Dress Atlanta is one of my favorite shows ever! Finding your dress is one of the best feelings in the world. So a whole show dedicated to it makes me happy! I’ve noticed a trend, though. The veil is never mentioned. It is all about the bride and the dress. She puts on dress after dress, and dress after dress is rejected by mom or an over-confident bridesmaid. Then comes the last dress. Usually, there is at least one person on the edge. Sometimes it’s the bride who is unsure, facing the unanimous approval of her entourage. Monte says it’s time to “jack her up” and tells the bride to close her eyes. When she opens them again, they usually fill with tears. Suddenly, she feels like a bride. This is HER dress. Mom starts crying. Best friends are clapping. The question comes, “Are you saying yes to the dress?” Cheers erupt after a joyful “Yes!” Monte saved the day again…with a veil.

There is something sacred about that thin piece of tulle. It has held us captive for centuries. It can be mind boggling to find just the right one, however. So many styles and shapes, which one is right for you? Let’s take a look at it.

STYLES

Not every bride fits into a particular category, but here are a few examples to get us started.

THE HIGH-FASHIONED BRIDE

The high-fashion brides are divas. They like a little extra sparkle in their lives and their bridal look is no different! The veil I have pictured here is is the perfect example. The french net on top of the tulle adds glamour and intrigue. French net is very popular with the high-fashion brides.

THE CLASSIC BRIDE

The classic bride is very sophisticated in her bridal look. The dress may be an eye catcher but the overall look is simple and stunning. The long, soft veils are perfect for the classic bride. This one is an English Net veil. The drape is amazing and adds an ethereal touch to any bridal look. In fact, look closely, this is the same model as the picture above. All we changed was the veil.

THE WHIMSICAL BRIDE

The whimsical bride loves all things enchanting. She has a woodland feel to her bridal look. Long veils or simple birdcages work well for the whimsical bride, as well. However, I love the vine tiara above. A simple headpiece can set the stage for your particular style just as a veil can.

THE CASUAL BRIDE

Don’t worry I didn’t forget you! The casual bride is not looking for a huge formal wedding. She may have a simple barn wedding, or maybe she is planning on eloping. A simple bridal headband, or birdcage veil is perfect for the casual bride! Even elopements can be done in style!

SO WHAT STYLE IS PERFECT FOR YOU?

Like I said, most brides don’t fit perfectly into a particular category. There are many factors that come into play. Your dress, your venue, and most importantly, your own personal style. If you are a high-fashioned bride with a big beautiful dress, but you like long veils, get a long veil! Do what YOU love!

I will give you a few pointers to help get you going:

1. If you love long veils, but the back of your dress is your favorite part of the dress, opt for a fine tulle. English net is too thick for you; you will not be able to see the details you love. You may consider adding lace to the bottom of the veil to frame the back of your dress.

2. Birdcage veils are having a very big moment in wedding style! If you adore the idea of a birdcage veil, but want to keep things a little more simple, go for tulle. It gives your style a softer appearance.

                                        Wenzel Photography 
                                                                                                          
 

3. No matter what your style is, a headpiece is always a good idea. You can wear it on top of a veil, under a veil, or completely on it’s own. It brings the perfect touch of bridal to your look.

4. Your veil or headpiece should perfectly represent all that is unique and beautiful in you. You shouldn’t have to settle for the generic bridal shop veil. If you want a veil or headpiece that is as individual as you are, a custom design may be perfect! It gives you the chance to be involved in the design process, and add all the details you love, because every detail of your big day is special.

You’ve found the perfect dress, the venue is booked, the invitations have been ordered. In Monte’s words, “It’s time to jack you up!”
 

 

Guest Blogger: Julia Belle's
Twitter: @Julia_Belles
Facebook:  Julia Belle's`Facebook
Email: juliabellesveils@gmail.com
Photography Source: Julia Belle's




Have a Sweet Day,
Clarissa

 

 

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.

 

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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.

 

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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!

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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!

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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! 

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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

Bridesmaid Gift Ideas

      Photo Source: Pinterest 

Bridesmaids play a very important in your overall wedding experience. From the moment you choose them, to the dress shopping, and discussing wedding details. Countless hours spent on discussing nail color, hair, shoes, and more. Your girls are by your side through all the pre-wedding celebrations, and leading up to the wedding date ( Bridal Showers, Luncheons, and Rehearsal Dinners).  Don't forget to choose them a very special gift, and something from the heart is always best!

Here a few items that you can give members of the bridal party on your special day!

 

 

 

  Photo Source: 

       www.weddingwindow.com

This necklace which includes a adorable little locket is so sweet! You write a message, or favorite quote on the paper. You fold it up completely and place it in the locket. The paper will pop out upon opening. Very heart warming gift for a member of your Bridal Party. 

               Photo Source:

 jamiebeargphotography.com

Beautiful packaging always makes receiving a gift extra special. Be creative, add bright colors that pop, and custom design each decoration especially for each member of your bridal party.

        Photo Source:

 oncewed.com

Personalized wedding hangers for your bridal party dresses are a nice touch. Taking the time to have each of their names embellished on the hanger; really is a wonderful idea!  Makes for a great photo as well, to perhaps hang all the dresses up together! 

The inspiration of the post came from a Bride.to.Be getting  married this Summer. 2014! 

Have a Sweet Day ❤

Clarissa 

Wedding Feature: Love Story of " Mr. Brandon & Shontae Hinnant"

               "Summer Time Fine"

Mr. Brandon & Mrs. Shontae Hinnant 

of Georgia; had a fun wedding theme, lots of love, and heartfelt emotions. The Bride bright and fresh aqua blue and coral colors were infused throughout her wedding! 

 Brandon & Shontae's destination wedding took place in "Wilson Rose Garden" located in North Carolina.  The beautiful blushing bride Shontae and her groom Brandon said, "I DO"  surrounded by close friends and family. 

The Engagement

Shontae & Brandon marriage proposal took place on a cool winter day last year; February 2, 2013.  A day celebrating their daughter's birthday; turned into a beautiful proposal! 

The Marriage Proposal

The couple were attending their youngest daughter's second birthday party. It was a fun and eventful day for the two of them! During the party Shontae & Brandon were kidding around doing "old school" poses; in the mist of all the excitement he asked for her hand in marriage!

Pre - Wedding Celebration 

During the engagement the bride held a pre-wedding celebration with 2 close family members.  Shontae had a very intimate bridal Luncheon with my cousin Nyesha Alston and mother Cathy Lucas. They talked, laughed and cried together, enjoyed some delicious food, and and delightful strawberry cake! 

Wedding Theme & Inspiration 

This beautiful couple had a fun and playful summer theme, called "Summer Time Fine"!  The couple chose cool and crisp wedding colors aqua blue, and coral.  

The inspiration for the couple's wedding day developed from their "Summer Time  Fine" theme. The bright and sunny long summer days. 

Something also magical happened about one hour before the wedding ceremony.  It rained briefly, around noon, and then the sun came shining brighter than ever!

Special Moments from the Bride

Bride (Shontae) says, 

"The morning of our wedding day the most special and magical moment for me  wasn't putting on my dress or looking at myself all dressed up; it was hours before that took place. My God father Dia Daniels, pulled up that morning to see me on my big day; only days after being out of the hospital from a complex high risk surgery of the lungs . I was so happy and sad all at the same time. Because it hurt to see him in pain, but the smile on his face made it worth it."

Special Wedding Highlights 

The highlight of Shontae's day was seeing Brandon, grandmother, and Wedding Officiant all standing waiting for her as she made her grand entrance! 

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Coming soon is part II here more about this beautiful couple, and get great advice from the blushing bride Shontae! She will give tips, inspirations, and more to engaged brides!

Have a Sweet Day! 

Clarissa 

3 Fab ideas of how to host a Engagement Party

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Love is in the air!  Engagement season is here, it starts the month of November and runs through February! This is the time when guys drop down on one knee to ask the BIG QUESTION; "Marry me"! 

Such, a exciting time in Bride.2.Be's life (The moment she has dreamed of, all her

Life). So, now that it's here, she's got to make it special!

Immediately following the engagement, you want to start planning a ......."Engagement" Party!  I know you need some FAB tips to get all the elements planned! 

#1) Establishing a date for the event- if you don't have a "Location" the rule is..... you don't officially have a "date" secured for your event! Don't announce to your guests the when, where, what... until you have officially "locked" in your venue!  

Think of a date ( be flexible on your dates)! You don't want to have your heart set on a particular date.  Later, only to find out that "date" is unavailable!  Start early a lot of places "book" 6-12 months in advance. 

#2 Location! Location! Location! - you have so many choices. Be creative, and unique. You don't have to be traditional! The options are endless, don't limit yourself to where you host your engagement party!  

Here's a few ideas:

 Rooftop of a Hotel, here in Atlanta, Georgia there is a boutique hotel called The "The Glenn Hotel" that has a venue called "Sky lounge" located on the roof of the hotel. Heated & A/C available, full bar, cute contemporary seating/couches, and more ( The view of the city "Breathtaking)! 

Museums, Aquarium, Movie Theater (yes, I said "movie theater") I know of movie theater that offer private rooms to host parties!  Private room at a restaurant my favorite is "Two Urban Licks" the room

is amazing ( the room sun roof that opens up into the sky, Awesome)! 

#3) Guests - plan your guests list with "love" and invite close family, and loved ones. You want to think about the most important people (Parents, Godparents, Grandparents). Focus on the most important first when making out your guest list. Remember this is the "engagement party" NOT THE WEDDING! You don't have to invite a HUGE crowd of guests. It's ok to have a small intimate group of people for the event. 

Bonus Tip: Relax, have fun and make your engagement party your own. This is a special time for you and your fiancée. Furthermore, this event is a opportunity to formally announce the engagement; among your close family and loved ones. 

If you can think of more tips on planning a Engagement Party, please leave a comment below. 

Click here and contact me if you need a planner to pull this FAB event together! 

Have a Sweet day,

Clarissa ❤