Event Planning Bootcamp ::eBook coming in 2010

Did you miss out on the Event Planning Bootcamp workshops this past Summer + Fall?


Well, stay tuned!
I'm excited to announce that you'll be able to acquire all of the insider information in an eBook format, soon to be released in 2010.
You'll be able to review the content at your own pace, and create an Individual Action Plan to take the wedding industry by storm!


Topic include:


· How to determine if event planning is a good fit
· Day in the life of an event planner
· Key ingredients of a successful services business
· Determining your unique selling position
· Developing a targeted customer base
· Defining your niche
· Elements of a killer marketing plan

New Wedding Traditions to Love

There's a few new ideas that seem to be popping up here + there.

And we are loving them!
Traditions are always magical, but a personalized version of it, that fits a couple perfectly, is always the way to go.

Here's the 3 we noticed this past wedding season {and absolutely LOVE}.

1} Gift Exchange before the Ceremony

This is between the Bride + Groom, and is usually carried out by the Maid of Honor and Best Man, or designated helpers. The idea is, the Bride + Groom will open up the gifts before they see each other for the first time.

Personal Faves?
* The Handwritten Note
* A picture from the past
* Ticket stub from a concert

Best one we've seen?
A can of Root Beer. It was the Bride's favorite pop, and the Groom knew that having it would calm her nerves. It totally worked.

2} Photo Session - After The Wedding
These are the pictures you'll put up ALL over your house. Guaranteed.

The idea is this: Get all gussied up once again, but forget the make-up, hair do, glitzy jewelry, or perfectly coiffed hair. Just jump back into your dress, and your man back into his wedding day attire.

Seek out a completely different locale than your actual wedding ceremony + reception.

Example: You were married at a church, and had a ballroom reception.

Post Wedding Day Photo Session? Head downtown, go to the zoo, or a park.

Your photos will be Real. Raw. Romantic.

Neither of you will have any stress left, just the feelings of pure marital bliss.

3} Family Tree Guestbook

Newlyweds always want something personal + unique to take from their wedding, and put up on the wall.

This couldn't get any better. Your family literally leaves their thumbprint behind, at the end of a designated branch. They'll then sign below it, and voila!

Check out Lovliday on Etsy.
Great product. Prices start at $25!

Worried You Might Hate the Ring He Chooses?

The truth is, most modern woman really do want to have a say in picking out their own jewelry, especially a piece as significant as the engagement ring.

Really, what’s worse….

Ruining a surprise, that results in choking back your horror at the thought of wearing that ring for the rest of your life?

Or, having to tell your boyfriend, that while sentimental + worth thousands of dollars, it’s not going on your finger until exchanged for something that fits your style?

It’s a bridal dilemma, but a real solution starts with going online, and getting a general idea of what you like.

You can visit a diamond site together as a couple, like Abazias.com, and review styles, shapes, and sizes of different engagement rings using the virtual ring builder.

With over 150,000 diamonds in stock, there’s plenty to choose from. There’s also no guarantee that the exact virtual ring is going to land on your finger. See? Still an element of surprise!

Choice = Surprise

With so much selection to choose from, your beau can still put one together that fits his budget, your taste, and have the final creation be a surprise.

Do you know when he ordered the ring? When and if he’ll really propose?
Let him keep you guessing! By giving him some general ideas, he can put together his own game plan.

It will let him make the proposal special, and unveil the ring at just the right time. Odds are, it will steal your breath away.

The real thing is always better than a virtual image, no matter how good the ring builder happens to be.


Oh, and Congratulations!!

SewBride : Custom Wedding Accessories

Bridetiquette is thrilled to announce its newest sponsor....

Don't know about you, but I LOVE fabric.

It has such power to bring together design elements, and add texture, movement + flair.

Brides are always searching for that unique piece that will personalize their day.

SewBride creates unique accent pieces out of non-traditional fabric choices, to dress up an Invitation, Table, Chair, Vase, Aisle, Bouquet, Pillow or Dress.

Add a splash of color, texture and style to your Big Day.

Here's a sampling of SewBride's darling Ringbearer pillows!

However will you choose?

Vendor Spotlight :: Spa Scotta

A welcoming ambience, sophisticated color palette, professional staff, chic boutique and a one of a kind owner .

This Seattle spa truly has it all.

Owner Jessica Campbell's story is one of pure inspiration, and a perfect example of what can happen when you follow your true calling.

Bridetiquette recently sat down with her, to get the scoop on all things Spa.

Tell us a little about yourself….

I'm the owner of Spa Scotta, spa and chic boutique. I was born in Cleveland, raised in North Carolina, went to college in Michigan and moved to Seattle in 1993. My father was from Seattle and I always wanted to live here so I packed up my car after college and here I am.

What inspired you to start your business?

I actually started with Spa Scotta as its first employee in 1998. I was the esthetician, then manager, spa director and finally owner in 2007.
I have a passion for this business and the people in it.

What special things do you create for weddings?
When I built this new spa, I designed it to create an environment for celebrations.
The spa is able to accommodate parties and events quite easily.

What unique services do you offer to brides getting ready for their big day?
We have a fabulous package called the “Bombshell Bride” that includes a spray tan, lash extensions and a gel lacquer nail service with a complimentary manicure.
The bride leaves ready for her big day and honeymoon looking and feeling glamorous.
And, the services are designed to last so you get good quality for the price.

What sets your spa apart?
My staff + I are very dedicated to keeping ourselves educated about the latest techniques and trends so we can offer the best to our clients.

What advice can you share for all of the brides getting married this year?
Don’t wait until the last minute to plan your spa day.
Ask lots of questions.

What inspires you?
I want to be the best. I get inspired by my staff on a regular basis. We have created a strong atmosphere of creativeness and are constantly asking ourselves…”What if we tried this?”

How long have you been in business? In our 11th year.

Where can clients contact you? info@spascotta.com
Where are you located?
Our address is 4915 25th Ave NE, Suite 103W. We're in the West Northcut Landing Building, across the street from University Village.
We're also online at http://www.spascotta.com

Thanks to Jessica for sharing her passion about business & beauty.

Bridetiquette's Wedding Anniversary

It's hard to believe it's already been 3 years.


We had a beautiful destination wedding in Hawaii.

Full of love, surrounded by family + close friends.

Here's a photograph of my husband + I on the beach.

{it goes without saying, this photograph is copyrighted. no duplication please.}

Guest Gripes :: How to Blow a Great Wedding Experience

I recently sat down with friends to ask about their Wedding Guest experiences.
Now, there was nothing scientific about this interview process, but they qualify as Veterans when it comes to total Wedding Attendance Numbers.
{Amongst them, there were over 14 weddings attended last season alone}.

Top 5 Gripes

Cash Bar
Just. Don't. Do. It.
You can limit the offerings {beer, wine, signature drink only}, or even the total hours that it's complimentary.... but don't make your guests pay for their own drinks upon arrival to the Reception.
It's just one word......Tacky.

Timeline
Get one! Pacing + transitions from Pre-Ceremony, to Cocktail Hour, to Cutting of the Cake is essential! No guest wants to feel like they're waiting around for something to happen. You need to have something for them to do {while you touch up your make-up, change, or get those last shots under the sunset}.
Guests have come to celebrate your union, and to chat with each other. Make sure each transition is smooth, and fully explained if need be.

Seating
Please, oh please ...... don't sequester all the Single people to one table.
Not everyone comes to a wedding to meet someone else.
Create a Seating Chart, and intermix singles, couples and all age groups.
Just because they're single, doesn't mean they want to sit at the designated 'loser' table.
Let the socializing be much more natural, and celebratory. People will find each other if they want too.

Toasts
This is a touchy subject for many. You need to have someone to troubleshoot the Drunks, and the Long Winded Relatives. Everyone wanting their turn is understandable, but getting up there, talking about basically nothing while getting your drink refilled is not cool.

Plated Dinner
Having over 50 guests? Then skip it. Otherwise, food will be hot for some, warm for others, and cold for the rest. It won't be eaten at the same time, and guests will be bored. Many will be waiting for Entertainment, Sweets or Dancing to begin. You want everyone to enjoy themselves and eat with leisure, not feel like they need to play 'catch up'.

So, what's your biggest gripe as a Former Wedding Guest?

Vendor Spotlight :: Eiffel Print Design

Gorgeous stationary sets the tone for your wedding. The mixture of colors, printing style, and embellishments create a unique + personal statement to your guests.



Brittany Hermansen of Eiffel Print Design has that instinctive eye for detail, and approaches each creation as a labor of love.

Bridetiquette recently chatted with Brittany, to ask about her love of all things paper.

What inspired you to start your business?
I’m a former bride who just couldn’t let go of weddings! Many brides experience a post-wedding letdown, but I was lucky enough to be able to channel my spare time and energy into a business.

I received so many compliments on the paper items I made for my own wedding, and I’ll admit, I was surprised. I knew my invitations were nice, but didn’t expect my family to rave about them so much! After the wedding, I had a few friends ask me to make things for them, and the whole thing just blossomed from there.

Where are you located?
I have a nice little studio in residential Ballard. I’ve found that my Ballard location has given me a little bit of hipster cred!

How long have you been in business?

This May it will be 5 years. What a journey it’s been! I can really see how my technique has improved since that first invitation, and how my approach to creative design has changed.

I started in my apartment and then moved to a separate, larger space and now have between 4-7 part-time employees who do assembly.

What special things do you create for weddings?
I can create a full service experience from a year before the wedding to 3 months after! I make save-the-dates, invitations, programs, rehearsal dinner invitations, menus, table cards, escort cards, announcements, thank-you notes, and anything else you can think of!

I love creating a palette that extends to all parts of the event.

What is unique about your work?
I think my work is unique because of the great attention to detail. With a strong background in scrapbooking and card crafting, I take a slightly different approach to invitation design.

I’m all about embellishments and 3-D elements that make flat invitations pop!

We regularly use rhinestones, brooches, seashells, charms, textured papers and anything tactile that brings life to an invitation.

I also have a fabulous collection of mix-and-match invitations, Eiffel Originals. These invitations come in 10 truly unique designs, 48 color choices and 7 size/orientation options. Most of them have fun embellishments, which is a nice departure from the standard mix-and-match designs you find elsewhere.

What advice can you share for all of the brides getting married this year?
Start early! Being prepared well in advance can keep costs under control; whether it’s hitting the bridal shows to look for discounts, or simply not waiting until the last minute, and incurring rush fees. Also, a good coordinator can be your best friend during the planning process.

Coordinators always have relationships with other vendors, and those alliances can save you time + money.

Where can we see/purchase/order your work/product/service?

My website would be the best place to start! www.eiffelprintdesign.com.
I also have a blog, http://eiffelprintdesign.wordpress.com/.
One of my newer invitation sets was also featured in the current edition of Seattle Bride, Spring/Summer 2009.

What inspires you?
I find inspiration in fashion design as well as nature!

Since creating my first beach-themed invitation, I’ve become more interested in using elements of nature in invitations, from printed flowers or leaves to sand dollars and even to feathers.

Of course, the feathers also cross over to fashion and my inspiration there.

I love ribbons, buckles and buttons; the fun and detailed accoutrements of clothing design.

I was thrilled to find Suburban Silk, a company that makes beautiful Thai silk boxes, and I love using them with my pieces.

What price ranges do your products/services fall into?

I have a mix-and-match collection called Eiffel Originals, and range from $6.25 to $7.75 per set.

My Completely Custom pieces range from about $7.50-$10.00 per set.

Boxed invitations start at $12.00 each.

What do you bring to the industry that sets you apart?

I think my personalized approach creates a customized design experience that brides appreciate. Sometimes brides come in with no concept of how to start the design process, but we are easily able to come up with something gorgeous in a short period of time.

I approach each first consultation with the idea that we are creating some brand new and original for that bride. All of the customizable elements; from fonts, to ink colors, to size and orientation, to embellishments, are part of making a truly original invitation suite that reflects the bride and grooms’ personalities!

Where can clients contact you?
Clients can contact me directly at 206.784.5122 or by email at: brittany@eiffelprintdesign.com

Thank you so much Brittany, your invitations are divine!

Waterways Cruises :: Spring Showcase

Looking to get married on Lake Union?

Don't miss the Open House at Waterways Cruises.
Amazing location, great food, and fantastic staff.

You can get married on one of three yachts, or at their 'land' location - Lakeside Events Center.

Super close to GasWorks Park for some great memorable shots!

When? Thursday, March 12th, 2009 5:00 - 8:00 PM
Where? The Lakeside Events Center 2501 N Northlake Way Seattle, WA 98103

Gourmet Cuisine by CaterArts
RSVP at www.waterwayscruises.com or #206.223.2060

Feather + Flower Power :: So Faux Stylish

I absolutely adore fresh flowers, and have a personal allergy to potpourri, or silk flower arrangements used as decor in a home, shop, spa....

But if you're looking to save a bit of dough, and possibly cut down on the Fresh Flowers cost, here's a few options that will not your socks off.

Gorgeous Boutinnieres, Fascinators and more!

All are handmade, and courtesy of amazing merchants on Etsy.com

Perfect Petal for Your Hair

Have you been browsing for Wedding Day Hair Styles, and wonder how you could possibly add flowers to the mix?

Well, look no further. Who says they have to be live stems? With hair embellishments as darling as these - you won't even think twice!

All petal pairs are courtesy of Ben and Oliver.
Beautiful things really do come in small packages!

Vendor Spotlight :: Starjuice Aromatherapy

Scent recalls a memory in real time. Whether we realize it or not, we tie emotions to scents we love, and those we wish to forget!


Darcey Pickard is a Certified Aromatherapist, and an expert on the Power of Scent. Her phenomenal line of products are professionally blended in her workshop, where she's always mixing up new things!

Bridetiquette had the recent pleasure of sitting down with Darcey to get the scoop on scent!

Tell us a little about yourself…
I hail from the East Coast and proudly consider myself a Seattlite- after living here for 12+ years.

I live in West Seattle with my husband and our very busy 3 1/2 year old son.

In my spare time I like to make great products, garden, practice yoga, eat good food with great friends, and get massages & pedicures. (Oh, if there was only more spare time!)

What inspired you to start Starjuice?
I'm a Certified Aromatherapist and have been blending since 1991. I've also been a Licensed Massage Practitioner for 10 years and started creating products for my practice.

It was out of this that Starjuice Aromatherapy was born!

My vision? To provide people with high quality, fun, hip products rooted in the history and tradition of aromatherapy. I've always believed in holistic health—treating the whole person and unlocking people's innate power to heal themselves. Starjuice enables me to share this philosophy.

Where are you located?
West Seattle, USA

What special things do you create for weddings?
I have products like spritzers, snifters and sugar scrubs perfect for favors, bridal party gifts, shower gifts - or things brides can use to nurture themselves.

I also create custom blends. I can work with a bride and create a signature blend for your wedding to give out to guests or wedding parties as a spritzer, massage oil, perfume oil, etc.
We can create a label with your names and the date, or whatever you want to have.
Scent is our strongest memory.

It's great to have a scent associated with such an important day. Every time you smell it you'll think of your day.

What's unique about your product?
Starjuice is a fun and modern line - perfect for the urban bride.

My products are all natural and handmade in small batches, using the highest quality ingredients. Also most lines aren't created by Certified Aromatherapists- you're getting a quality product made with intention.

What advice can you share for all of the brides getting married this year?
Take care of yourself. Wedding planning for me was one of the most stressful times of my life!

It's so important to put yourself at the top of the list- and I don't just mean exercise so you can get into that dress. Take time to focus and center yourself, get massages, use aromatherapy at home, stretch, take a walk outside - whatever calms and nurtures your spirit. It's important to do those things for ourselves all the time - but crucial in times of high stress.

Where can we purchase your product line?
http://www.starjuiceonline.com/ + starjuiceonline.etsy.com

What inspires you?
Colors, flowers, trees, parks, smells, food, art, music, design, aesthetics, Seattle... I live in a beautiful city and seeing the mountains when I'm driving in my car still takes my breath away. Getting a great massage and being able to go inward and feel refreshed. I feel supported by my community. I'm also inspired by the amazing women I know in mom's groups and business, the love of my husband and son and being a part of a child's world. That's a trip.

What price range does your product line fall into?
$6.50-$30
Custom orders vary

What do you bring to the industry that sets you apart?
A thorough knowledge of what it is I'm selling. People ask me " does this aromatherapy stuff work?" And I can answer "Yes!" AND tell them why.

I have years of personal experience with oils and take great pride and care with my creations. I use everything that I make. I talk the talk and walk the walk.

Where can clients contact you?
darcey@starjuiceonline.com

Thanks to Darcey for her wonderful interview :: Authenticity always smells sweet!

Short + Sweet :: Bridal Dresses with Style

My husband + I had the honor of attending a gorgeous wedding reception this past Valentine's Day, where the new bride stole the show with the most darling, flirty + figure-flattering dress!

Her dress was strapless, tea length, ivory satin, form fitting + had the smallest embellishment of tulle at the top and bottom. It was to die for!

It made me ponder... what other tea length bridal dresses are rolling out for 2009?

They're perfect for a beach, outdoor, destination or a white chapel wedding!

And from browsing the price points - a great way to save some dough too.

What do you think?

Are you considering a tea length dress for your Big Day?

Love is in the Air...

This picture says it all :: Happy Valentine's Day

Remember to tell someone special how much you love them today. Everyday in fact.

The SWIP :: Gorgeous New Meeting Space

I previously announced the Launch Party for The SWIP (Seattle Wedding Industry Professionals) in late January.

I'm delighted to now have photographs that capture the essence of the space.

Meeting clients + vendors here is a great way to make a connection without interruptions!

It's absolutely beautiful, and all thanks to Lindsey Runyon Design!

Premier Party :: Georgetown Studios @ The Engine Room

Looking for something to do with your sweetie on Valentine's Day? Maybe you're on the hunt for an edgy, new space to hold your nuptuals + reception?

Attend a great party in an amazing space on February 14th. Features include: huge windows, 25' ceilings + a 4300 square ft. room. {Oh, and it's housed in the Original Rainier Brewery - too cool}

When? Valentine's Day {6 - 9pm}
Where? Georgetown Studios {5970 Airport Way S.} Seattle, WA
Who? Pulp Catering will be serving their Specialty Cocktails, delicious food will be provided by City Catering, and Kathryn Barnard will showcase her photography.

Come out + celebrate!

I Heart Ruffles

Have you noticed all the ruffles out there?

I absolutely LOVE it as a design element.

It creates such wonderful individuality in a dress.

It also offers fantastic options for a Bridesmaid dress.

Wearing the same dress, in the same color, makes many a Bridesmaid feel like they're in a uniform.

Why not provide a few color + element guidelines, and let them loose? It will create a cohesive look with texture, while offering a personal flair.

Hey Seattle Bride : Nautical Open House

Still searching for the Perfect Venue? Whether a Rehearsal Dinner, Ceremony + Reception, or Post Wedding Brunch....

The Center for Wooden Boats is the ideal on-the-water facility.

Picturesque views of Lake Union create a gorgeous natural backdrop for photographs.

Their having an Open House, where you can sample preferred caterers and imagine the possibilities for your big day!

When: February 8, 2009 : 3 - 6pm
Where: CWB Boathouse : 1010 Valley Street, Seattle 98109
Contact: 206.382.2628

Modern Cake Love

There's something so divine + artistic about the cakes as of late.

Icing in bold colors, accents that feature patterns + texture.

Brides + Grooms can really choose a cake that excudes their personality + style. Here's a sampling of our faves:

photo courtesy of littlebakehouse

photo courtesy of littlebakehouse

photo courtesy of bakingarts

photo courtesy of icingdreams

Whatever you can dream up, it can be made for your Big Day!

Art of the Cupcake

Lately I've become a bit obsessed with the cupcake.

Not the taste, flavor combinations, or even the (at times) breathtaking price.

But the beauty in the presentation.

There is a rare breed of baker that treats each one with the love of a blank canvas.

I recently stumbled upon photos from one such whimsical baker in the UK.

Her name is Sarah Jones, and she owns thelittlebakehouse.

Here's a sampling of her eye candy cupcakes:

Too cute to eat? Well, maybe not - but darling nonetheless. Cheers to you Sarah!