Creative Design: From holiday old to Glam

I spent a majority of my day decorating the house for the holidays.  I went through boxes and boxes of different looks (I often change the color of our trim each year). Going through these boxes brought back some great memories. I then found myself searching through different boxes to reconnect with my past. After all, I only open the boxes once a year.

Well, this year I made a decision to reuse my holiday trim versus purchasing new and I challenge you to do the same!!

Instead of purchasing new trim - try creative ways to mix and re-use old ornaments to create unique, eclectic centerpieces, wreaths, or additions to your mantle.   Not only will you display your childhood pieces (that may be broken, mix-match, or too weak) but it will also leave some spare change for things you enjoy most -- In my case SHOES!! 

Enjoy!!

Adding a little "Think Pink"

You'd have to live in a bubble to not notice the waves of pink during the last couple of weeks. Professional teams, businesses, organizations, and individuals have been working so hard to increase awareness to breast cancer research and prevention. With so many lives affected directly or indirectly, there is a need to continue the efforts past the month of October.

Outside of volunteering and monetary donations, we have turned our logo pink this month to honor and celebrate the lives of the relatives and friends that have fought the battle of breast cancer.



There are also ways that you can add a little "pink" into your wedding planning.



1. Support The Brides Against Breast Cancer national tour. The tour travels across the country with hundreds of gowns donated by brides, boutiques, or designers. Purchasing a gown from this charity places money to the Making Memories Foundation. The tour will stop in Raleigh, NC on February 25-27, 2011.

2. In lieu of favors, you can make a donation to your favorite chrarity then inform your guests by writing a message on cute cards and placing them on the reception tables or a large frame at the entrance. Its such a personal way to show how loving YOU are, AND get people to care about it, too.

3. I’ve had a bride wrap her bouquet with her grandmothers handkerchief in place of ribbon to be sure her grandmother was with her throughout her wedding day. This was very heartfelt, but definitely personal!


4. Begin today by purchasing a pair of pink pumps and "step for a cure".







Whatever you chose to do, remember that sharing the love of others is one of the best ways to add personality.

Aisha

Personalizing your bridal fashion: Conversation with Elizabeth Nihart

With several bridal boutiques in the area, and so many styles to choose from, there is the pressure to get it right. Our conversation with Elizabeth Nihart, fashion designer for Gini by Elizabeth in Charlotte, NC provides tips to personalizing your bridal fashion. Elizabeth says that while designing a custom gown is not always cheap, it is created for your body, and avoids the time and cost of alterations on the final gown. Most brides choose to start the process 9-12 months prior to the wedding, however, it can take anywhere from 3-6 months to complete a gown. During the first design consultation you talk about when the dress is needed, your fitting schedule, and a final delivery date for the gown. Her gowns start at $1,500.

The biggest benefit of designing your own gown is being able to choose exactly what you want. For some brides it can be overwhelming to go into bridal boutiques and try on dozens of dresses, so being able to tell a designer what you like, and have the dress designed and made for you can relieve a lot of stress. Other brides find dresses that they like part of, but want to change other parts, so with a custom dress they can design their dream dress with all of their favorite elements, as well as choosing the fabrics, laces and embellishments.

Whether you buy your gown from a bridal boutique or determine that custom is the way to go, Elizabeth feels that it is important to make sure to choose a dress that is flattering to your body type and will show off your best assets. Another great way to show off your unique style on your wedding day is through accessories. There are many great options to choose from with veils, flowered clips, headbands, jewelry, and even your favorite colored heels under your wedding dress.

Elizabeth’s gowns were showcased in her first full bridal show during the 2010 Charlotte Fashion Week held in September at Founders Hall, Bank of America Building uptown. Describing her collection, Elizabeth says:

“My bridal collection is a very feminine, romantic collection full of unique laces, crystals, chiffon and little details. I have included a lot of pale gray and silver which I think is a fun twist on traditional bridal, as well as quite a few short white dresses that are perfect for the rehearsal dinner, or changing into to leave the reception. There are a lot of brides that look for the fun party dress to change into for the reception or even the after party, so I devoted part of my collection to that niche.”

For more information about Elizabeth Nihart’s custom bridal gowns, check out her collection at www.GinibyElizabeth.com.

HOT, HAUTE, NEWS::Charlotte Weddings Examiner!!

I'm happy to announce that I have been named Charlotte Weddings Examiner for Examiner.com.  As an contributing writer, my articles will provide brides AND grooms with tips, local events, and resources for planning THEIR wedding in the Charlotte area.  I will also respond to questions submitted by readers, so be sure to email me your planning and design questions. Below is the first article of many to come and stay tuned for my interview with Elizabeth Nihart, fashion designer of custom bridal gowns at Gini Bridal Couture. 

It's YOUR wedding!!

Many believe that young girls dream of their wedding day from the time they begin playing dress up. However, the truth is that today’s bride was too busy with school, advancing her career, and paying service to her community. Very few brides come into our offices with a notebook she’s been keeping since high school with details of her dream wedding. With friends, family, and recent married couples pouring their ideas and vision of YOUR wedding, you could easily become frustrated, discouraged, or lose focus.


Remember it is YOUR wedding and YOUR wedding should be about YOU!!! Look at your relationship and personalities. What do you like to do for fun? Dig deep within yourself and pull out elements to begin creating your personal wedding. What are your favorite vacation spots? Begin to envision how you’d like to feel on YOUR wedding day. What do you want to share with your guests? Adding personality to your day will leave your guests with a piece of you. The best weddings leave their guests feeling a direct reflection of the couple.

Build a concept based on your personalities to create emotion. This is what will leave a lasting impression and have guests talking about YOUR wedding for years to come. After all- It’s YOUR wedding!!!

YOUR Charlotte Weddings Examiner,

Aisha Thomas

Inspiration:I love Rock and Roll!!!

Inspired by Taylor Swift's performance during the opening of the NFL season, is our "LOVE FOR ROCK N' ROLL". To the bride that doesn't  feel the need to feel like a princess on her wedding day-- fun, flirty and definitely a rock star in her own right!! 

Envision  a day to express YOUR love. After all, adding YOUR personality is what's important!!!

Fall Promotion: Convince Me!!!

Seasonal flowers; menu options for all; themes are just a few items that Event Fantasies can help you with as you plan the most magical moment of your life. Many wonder of the benefits or if they can afford it, but we are so confident we can make your day about you that we are offering our services at the weekend coordinate rate.

This rate will be awarded to 5 lucky couples that will be selected after our initial meeting.

To qualify the rules are below:

• Ceremony and Reception must be held between 10/1/2010 and 1/31/2010.
• Agree to provide photos, written and video testimonials.
• Wedding investment equal to or greater than $10,000 (costs include ceremony and reception venue, food and beverage, entertainment, photographer, baker, etc.).

If you are one of the 5 lucky couples you will receive:

• Guidance from our professional staff and personal meetings to review the remaining details up to your wedding day!
• Weekend wedding coordination – (of course!!)
• The ability to have you and your family feel like a guest at your own wedding – (ENJOY!!)
• Peace of mind knowing you have an Event Fantasies planner with you the rest of the way!!

Call 704-322-4534 for more information.





More Than A Flower: The Freesia

We look deeper into the flower and find its personality. This helps with clients who are indecisive about their floral plan.  It also adds an extra special dimension knowing that your flowers are a reflection of you!! Continuing with our "More Than A Flower" series, we feature the "Freesia"!! 

It’s a wonderful flower to show appreciation to a trusted friend, in return for an act of kindness. The 7th wedding anniversary flower, in the language of flowers, freesia are said to symbolize innocence, friendship, and thoughtfulness.

The freesia originated from South Africa and is a newcomer to the western world. It was almost unknown until the 1950’s, but it is now one of the most sought after cut flowers. Its popularity is linked to the flower’s fragrance and the small delicate blooms.

As much as for the beauty and grace of the blossoms, freesias are enjoyed for the light, sweet fragrance. These flowers are perfect for wedding bouquets, headdresses, corsages, and boutonnieres or you can add fragrance to a room in your home! The most popular freesia varieties are called Ballerina.

Thanks to its meaning of sweetness and innocence, it has become a common flower given to a new mother to welcome a new baby, the sweetest and most innocent thing in the entire world.

Inspiration: Napa Valley in the Carolinas!!

Napa Valley inspired outdoor wedding and ceremony. Casual and relaxed atmosphere, however, bride's style and class was not diminished. White sparkling wine, lemon drop martinis serve as the couple's signature beverage. The bride carried yellow orchids to add a pop of color to her celery and cream decor.

 

More Than A Flower: Gladiolus

Since we are in the month of AUGUST, what better flower to feature than the glorious gladiolus, the official flower of this month.

Symbolizing strength and moral integrity, the flower's meaning is graceful; strong sense of character and the word Gladiolus is Latin for "sword". Striking and colorful with towering stems this flower evokes the drama of Roman gladiators.

The gladiolus, sometimes called the Sword Lily has some great attributes that makes them popular for bouquets. You can find them in lots of colors such as pink, red, white, orange, yellow, purple, and bi-color. They are available year round, and because they are on a long stem, you get varied type of blooms.

It's an excellent choice to use as a centerpiece to enhance your reception tables, especially at an outdoor wedding where the blossoms can perfume the air.

Stay tuned for next week’s featured bloom:

More Than A Flower: The Tulip

As one of the world’s most beloved flowers, a gift of tulips is a sure delight, enchanting in its beauty, elegance and simplicity. One of the world's most easily recognized and loved flowers tulips mean both ‘love’ and ‘passion’, so they are another great choice for wedding flowers.

The tulip originated over ten decades ago in Persia and Turkey, where it played a significant role in the art and culture of the time. Used since ancient times to symbolize love, affection, and enchantment, these colorful blossoms may add a fresh touch of elegance and class to your ceremony and reception.

Tulips blooms can create a romantic modern, traditional, or ecletic atmosphere on your most memorable day.

Bring out the happy mood on your wedding day with tulips, the symbol of "The Perfect Lover". 

The Red Tulip Legend

Persian legend holds that red tulips symbolize the ardor of a lover's heart. The flower's black center is said to be the coal left over after the lover's heart has burned in the fire of its own passion!

Stay tuned for next week’s featured flower: The Gladiola

More Than A Flower: The Sunflower

No flower can lift spirits quite like sunflowers can. A gift of radiant warmth with meanings to include loyalty, adoration and longevity; as well as symbolic of good luck, wealth, happiness, strength, and ambition. It's no wonder the sunflower is a perfect selection for a wedding flower! (and also one of Aisha's favorite blooms!!)

The history of the sunflower begins in the Americas, the land to which it is indigenous. To the Native Americans, the sunflower symbolized strength and endurance, and was a prominent feature in their ceremonies. Bright, vivid color and long, strong stems make the Sunflower a fantastic focal flower for summer and autumn events, wedding bouquets, table centerpieces and floral arrangements. It is the state flower of Kansas and the national flower of Russia.

Sunflowers are becoming a popular flower for the bridal bouquet. Bright, bold and beautiful, Sunflowers are the "happy" flowers of summer! Let your light shine through by adding the sunflower to your wedding flower plan.

For a flower which reflects so many of the sun's positive characteristics, it is little surprise that people enjoy basking in the sunflower’s warming glow. With the sense of brightness and warmth that sunflowers naturally impart, they have become an ideal choice for sending sentiments of cheerfulness and sunny thoughts.

Stay tuned for our next feature bloom: The Tulip

More Than a Flower: The Peony

The Peony symbolizes "healing"- Happy life, happy marriage, good health, prosperity and it grants the recipient the power to keep a secret. It is the longest used flower over time and is the state flower of Indiana.


 It is a native bloom to Asia, seen in many LUXE events.  Their large, fluffy, cotton-like blooms add dimension, and give a magificant scent!  Here Martha Stewart features the bloom in her garden "Peony Party".

Of course, the peony is a flower of choice for many weddings.  Below is a photo of a Bouquet featuring white peonies from Ayer and Alex Drayers Celebrity Wedding.

Symbolizing healing and health could also explain why lush burgundy peonies were accompanied with over 4,000 roses in the celebrity wedding of Ian Smith, M.D. & Triste Noelle Lieteau.

Peony joined with orchids in Celebrity Wedding: Brandon Routh & Courtney Ford.

Photos Credits of InStyle Magazine and Marth Stewart.

Follow our blog for our "More Than A Flower" series providing insight into the relationship between florals  and personality. Remember, there is more to a flower than what meets the eye.  Stay tuned for our next feature bloom: The Sunflower.

REAL Insider Tips: Protect your blooms from the summer heat

Fresh flowers are affordable and with these 3 tips can be durable and easy to care for.  With the heat,  several brides have expressed their concern for their flowers.  Flowers account for approximately 15% of your wedding investment. With our 3 simple tips- you can protect your blooms.


1. Go Local - Ask for recommendations on flower types that are in season.  These flowers will more likely sustain the climate and also save some money versus shipping in flowers from a different climate zone that cannot bear the heat in the midsummer.

2. Double, No Triple Duty - Use your wedding party bouquets as accents throughout your reception.  Placing your bouquets in vases or holders on your wedding cake, place cards, or gift table, will save you money by allowing your flowers to serve double duty and keep hydrated during the reception.

3. Allow a sip - Opt to use a water source. Bouquet holders and stem wraps allow your flowers to sip cool water during the ceremony, photos, or while dancing the night away at the reception. The constant hydration keeps your stems fresh and perky. Accents such as Swarovski crystals, pearls or sequins add a touch of elegance (almost every bride's vision), royalty, and personalization to their day.

Thanks!! The Engaging Party

June was the month of our inaugural "The Engaging Party" which included a Caribbean concept. The purpose of the event was to give couples a chance to step away from wedding planning and just enjoy one another.  I understand that there are many stressors during this phase so I put together a few of Charlotte's Best to help make the evening possible. Not only did guests leave with a goodies bag full of treats, some awesome door prizes were given away.

Congratulations to the following winners:


Gift card from MissNowMrs, name changing service (29.95 value) - Yvetta Mapp
A Bridal Bouquet (95.00 value) compliments of Event Fantasies Designs -  Precious Fegans
Candy Buffet from All You Can Treat ($150.00 value) - Juan Vazquez

 Fresh florals and beach inspired hues were included in Event Fantasies' design plan.

 Always playing close attention to detail - down to the napkins.

 Bridal  bouquet featuring a little sparkle and bling. Includes fresh roses and lilies.

Thanks again to our partners - Hawkins Gallery, Spiritfire Photography, Event Fantasies Planning & Design, Heaven Sent Catering, Premiere Bride- Charlotte, MissNowMrs.com, All You Can Treat, and Sandals.

Renee, Advertising Director, for Premiere Bride-Charlotte and I take a break from our bartending competition to smile for the camera!! LOL

If you missed out, be sure to sign up to receive our bi-monthly ezine. Stay tuned for more details about The Engaging Party!!

Only 13 spots remain!! Come to the Caribbean with us!

What an excuse to grab your fiance, bridesmaids, or groomsmen and get some fun time in!! This is definitely going to be HOT!! Come join us Sunday, June 6 at Hawkins Studio & Gallery from 5-8PM.

YOU are invited to attend one of the hottest events in Charlotte to celebrate YOUR engagement!

Event Fantasies is rolling out her bag of treats and offering the ultimate Caribbean experience without a passport!!

Here are some details about the party!
+Photos courtesy of Spiritfire Photography

+A tasty island punch

+No cover (RSVP here)

+Sweet treats by All You Can Treat

+Special menu from Heaven Sent Catering

+Fabulous swag bag full of goodies

Plus amazing raffles filled with prizes from MissNowMrs.com, spas, and more...

Hawkins Studio & Gallery

118 E. Kingston Ave.
Charlotte NC 28203

Are you excited now? Well, here's some visual inspiration we put together to help you paint the picture in your mind. 

Special thanks to:

Hawkins Studio & Gallery, Premiere Bride-Charlotte, Sandals, Heaven Sent Catering, All You Can Treat, Event Fantasies Design, MissNowMrs, and Spiritfire Photography 

The Engaging Party...Carribean Style

We are so excited about our new studio in the Plaza-Midwood area that we have put together one of the most exclusive engagement parties that Charlotte has seen!!  We're inviting soon-to-be wed couples to take a break from wedding planning and celebrate with us in Carribean style!!  Special thanks to my friends at Hawkins Studio and Gallery, Premiere Bride, Heaven Sent Catering, Spiritfire Photography, and Sandals!!!  RSVP soon because space is limited.

Wishing you lots of magic, love, and romance,

Aisha

Tip: Express Yourself with Paper

I do not know how many times I can stress the importance of stationary.  I understand the importance of implementing green and ecofriendly processes into our lives, but nothing sets the predecense of what's to come than stationary.  It's one of the first things guests see and it is at this point the anticipation begins!For those who are conscience, there are many environmentally friendly recycled options that will allow you to remain GREEN.

Printed on Recycled Paper

From the save the dates, invitations, programs, place cards, and table numbers-- often ignored but extremely significant is the art of "paper".

Contact us for custom design elements or the large album selection from one of our stationary partners.



Wishing you lots of magic, love, and romance!!

Aisha

Unique Spaces

I make the most of opportunities to attend networking functions throughout the city.  This is often where I am able to meet new and exciting people who usually become one of our vendors.  I recently attended a private social networking at an exciting venue.  Foreign Italia is a car dealership that specializes in what I call, "hot rods".  We enjoyed great food by Chef Joe and Cheateau and cocktails by Gentleman Jacks.  The vehicles created a luxurious ambiance. Be creative and do not limit yourself when chosing a place to host your event.  My event design philosophy is to express the personal style and personality of my client. One way I often do so is with the venue.  I encourage you to "think outside the box" when considering where to host your next wedding, soiree, or social.

Photos credits: Pop Rock Photography


Enjoy!!

Aisha

Tribute to Mother Nature!!

Today is Earth Day!!!   I love outdoor weddings because mother nature provides a beautiful backdrop that many indoor facilities cannot replicate.  The sounds of birds chirping and light breezes provide a sense of peace and heavenly charm to seal the beginning of couple's new life together.  Cautious thought should go into the space and season in order to avoid preventative disasters. But added touches to the details--  food and beverage selections, menu cards, programs, attire and flowers-- take simple outdoor weddings from "blah" to "BAM". For Earth Day, we were inspired to put together an outdoor wedding incorporating fun and relaxed hues of cucumber and melon. What a better way to pay tribute to "Mother Earth" than to bring together the love of your life and the love of nature!!!!

Click here to access the official Earth Day 2010 webpage or to make your pledge to a better planet.

Highlight: TLR Photography

We work with reputable event professionals that have proven to provide exceptional service with professional results. Our list is extensive and continuously growing.  From time to time, we like to highlight these professionals to say thank you. TLR Photography

Ever wanted to walk on a PGA TOUR event course!

On April 27, 2010, I'll be walking in the Avon Foundation Walk the Course Against Domestic Violence event, held in collaboration with the PGA TOUR Wives Association and the Quail Hollow Championship, on the beautiful Quail Hollow Club golf course.

I've joined the Diamonds Direct Foundation. The Diamonds Direct Foundation will make an additional $50.00 donation to the first 50 people who join their team, pay the $25.00 registration fee, and make a donation of at least $25.00 or more! Help us reach our our team’s goal of $4,000.00!

To Donate: Click Here and follow the instructions below:
- Click “make a gift”
- Enter payment information
- Once you’ve registered, email Kelsey KelseyH@ddusainc.com your T-Shirt Size (t-shirt sizes are needed by April 20th).

To Join the Diamond Direct Foundation Team and walk with me, Click Here and follow the instructions below:
- Select the button “Register Now/Get Started”
- Select “View List of Teams” and scroll down to find “The Diamonds Direct Foundation”
- Click Join our team (team password: DDUSAINC)
- Fill out the registration form and submit your $25.00 registration fee
- Agree to the Terms and Conditions
- See the instructions below to make a donationPlease know that every dollar you donate is making a difference. 100% of the event proceeds will go towards this cause.


Thank you for your support!

Photos from 2009
Aisha