The First Dance

I have to admit, I love when people are original and put themselves out there. One of my brides showed me a YouTube video of a couple's first dance. I love the first dance of a newlywed couple, it's always so sweet to see them out there dancing and whispering to each other. But you know what? It's never the memory that sticks with me when the night is done. I encourage couples to make it fun, make it memorable, make it you. Why not right? It's your big day, everyone is there to celebrate you, enjoy yourself.

Here's the link...please check it out, it's great.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=dvIvHrsLvSM

Addicted to Wedding Blogs??

I was just on DIY Brides, if you haven't checked it out yet you really should, it's a lot of fun. Anyway back to the point of my post! DIY Brides posted about a site called AllTop.com, it is just chocked full of wedding blogs...all wedding related blogs, just lists of them in one place...woo hoo!!

Just wanted to share.

Here's a beautiful picture just for a splash of color (blue hydrangea shout-out to Kristin, can't wait 'til August 15!).

Featured ~ September's Bride

Today I was lucky enough to visit September's Bride a bridal gown salon in downtown Holland. I have heard so many wonderful things about the owner Tami and the shop so I had to check it out for myself. One of the biggest complaints I hear from brides is that the big bridal stores have no customer service. When shopping for that perfect dress for your big day every girl wants to feel like a princess. At September's Bride, Tami and her staff will give you the one on one attention you desire and provide you with that one of a kind experience you are looking for.

And the selection of dresses they have is wonderful, from designers like Lila Couture to Casablanca. September's Bride has a beautiful array of jewelry from the fabulous Lisa Stone of L. Stone Designs. They also carry a wonderful selection of mother of the bride ensembles, bridesmaids dresses and also tuxedos.

For the Love of Chocolate

I have a confession...I love chocolate, both the food and the color! It looks great mixed with everything from pinks to blues to golds. It is so rich and full of depth I love to see it incorporated in all different ways and in all the seasons. Here are a few pics from the Knot that I thought were worthy of posting.

Special Moment

Traditions are constantly evolving and being re-created. With down to the minute time lines and "immediately following the ceremony" receptions couples are always looking for a place to save a few moments. Although there is still the superstition of bad luck if seeing each other beforehand, a lot of couples are beginning to break that stigma and are sharing a special moment together before the ceremony.

If you are not superstitious, I highly encourage you to take a moment alone and enjoy each other before all the chaos begins. It helps to calm the nerves and emotions before you are in front of a large audience. Plus, then you can get all your pictures out of the way and you won't have to worry about them between the ceremony and reception.

Amy Carroll beautifully captured Dana and Jeremy's first moment of seeing each other.

Fun Favors

One of the biggest tips I have for couples is to spend their money on favors wisely. Make sure that what you use for favors is "useable" whether it's edible (my favorite) or useful in another way. Edible treats are the best, guests appreciate sitting down and having a small little nibble of something while they wait to get their meal and it's always a plus if there are some left over for you! These cookies Dana and Jeremy used were delicious and looked really cute on the table!!

Another great idea is to combine things on your big day, such as place cards and favors. Beth and Chris used customized wine bottles from Vintners Cellar Winery as their favors for each adult couple and attached place cards to them. For anyone not of age, they provided Jones soda in the wedding colors.

Memorial Weekend

Just wanted to wish everyone a great holiday weekend. Hope you all enjoy the long weekend with family and friends.

And for all of you brides out there...if anyone is feeling excessively patriotic here's the dress for you!