The Pen Is Mightier Than The Sword
I do not want children at my wedding, what do I do?!
I have gotten this question more than…more than the amount of times I have allowed myself to indulge in a Starbucks Fall Lovin’ pumpkin spice latte. Unacceptable, it is officially fall y’all! Anywho, after hearing this very topic come up on The Bert Show I thought blog? Why of course! After all, everyone comes here for all wedding advice and inspirations right? (Do not ruin my moment…let a girl dream)
Okay. So this is a touchy subject. It might be uncomfortable, but if you do not want children at your wedding, then by all means no kiddos. How you ask? This is what I am here to help you with.
Invites. It is all in the wording of the invites! Below are some options…
1.
Adult only reception to follow
2.
Adult only reception. Babysitters will be provided!
3.
2 seats have been reserved for you
__ out of 2 are attending
I’ll tell you what though. If you do not put anything of the sort in the invite and then get caught in a sticky situation where aunt Betty (no, not this one) wants to bring the itty bitties, you must suck it up and have them or it is just tacky. A caveat to this is, you cannot just allow one family member or friend to bring their younger versions- it is an all or none kind of deal.
No, Charlie.
Glamñata
I do not want my wedding to be a Cinco de Mayo themed party (well, all except for the photo booth via Erika Leigh Photography), but I do have to pay homage to the fact that it is on Cinco. So, I have come up with some fun and tasteful ways to make this happen.
I had the idea to do some glamorous piñatas. Sorry, no donkeys and sombreros here. I found some beauties on Confetti System.
Amazing right? One problem. The price. So, I either bite the bullet or make my own. I am artsy, but I don’t know that I can trust myself with this project! Only one way to find out right?
Hold the phone…
Before I decided to throw myself in a mound of paper machete, I did a little more research and ran across an awesome DIY project on Design Sponge. They have taken paper lanterns, glue, scissors, tissue paper, and string to a whole new level.
DIY Project: Piñata-Inspired Lanterns
Now, all I need is some sparkly paper, wine, and a good movie and give this project a trial run! Any movie suggestions?…
Flower Power
I have to brag until I am blue in the face about all of my vendors because they are simply the best and they at least deserve some social media lime light.
Up next, Heather with Stylish Stems. I was introduced to Heather by way of another dear friend, Allison. Every time I went over to her house for dinner (or stalked her wedding pictures on Facebook) I always admired how beautiful her flowers were. Next thing I know, I am sitting chatting with Heather at a Starbucks as if we have known each other for years. People, befriend your vendors…they are not just the people that put together bouquets or put the food in front of your guests. These are the people that make your wedding happen!
I know I say it every time, but wedding blogs are THE best places to look for inspiration. Amongst my favorites is Ruffled Blog. This site is dedicated to inspire with vintage wedding ideas (so not shocking that I am obsessed) and takes up hours of my day! Thank you Amanda for getting me almost fired every day of the week because instead of budget spreadsheets and invoices, I am busy looking at flowers and centerpieces (way more funner, right?). Below are the pictures off of Ruffled Blog that inspired all of the flowers that will be at my wedding.
Flowers are the sweetest things God ever made, and forgot to put a soul into. ~Henry Beecher
Swimming In A Sea Of CAKE!
I know, I know. I have been m.i.a.
Here is the big news… (Drum Role please)…
DOLCET IS MOVING TO RICHMOND, VA!
So, my life has been a complete whirlwind. Turns out picking up and moving your entire existence to another state in a month takes some planning (luckily I’m good at this) and also comes with quite a few sleepless nights. Long runs and wine are good fixer uppers.
What else do I have to update you all on? A lot. Most recently checked off the list is the cake. The thought of it is making my mouth water. I seriously thought I died and went to heaven. THANK YOU EILEEN CARTER!!
Lets start with the star of the show- The wedding cake! I love vintage glam and I got the inspiration for my cake from Juliet Marries Romeo
Flowers- kristinsin.tumblr.com Cake- Pinterest Dress- Wanelo
I hope you are sitting down because the flavor- White cake (similar to a light fluffy angel food cake) with Bailey’s filling and fresh strawberries. My cake will have an element of “Nazlification” so it will not look exactly like the one pictured, but I do have to leave some element of surprise for you guys!
The groom’s cake is going to be a complete surprise to Elliot, so I cannot disclose that here quite yet. Flavors for that will be a chocolate cake with home-made raspberry jam filling.
As Rachael Ray would say “YUM-O!”
The Ring Police
…The good, the bad, and the badder of celeb engagement rings
There has been so much talk of celebrity engagement rings. More than usual at least. So, I wanted to share some of my favorites and not so favorites.
Bad news first.
The Uglies
Oh Jenn. You’re so beautiful and I have never seen anything more tasteless on you. Blame it on old Brad. Clearly, he was not much good for you.
Jordan Bratman made a boo boo. This is way to masculine for such a petite girl. Or, just a girl in general.
Eric Johnson made two mistakes in his lifetime. The Saints and this ring.
Tacky. Just like this relationship. Team Bullock!!
The Pretties
The rare bread of HUGE yet refined. Kim, Khloe wins. Balllinnn
Seal made the perfect choice for Heidi. Not only is this a beautiful ring for a beautiful woman, but it fits her in every way- Classy, dainty, unique, and makes a big statement.
This woman has got a husband with good taste. Lucky you, Kat.
Talk about sibling rivalry. Sorry Jess, this ring takes the cake. Sadly, neither marriage did.
So, there you have it. Just a handful of my picks for the worst and best celebrity engagement rings. Although I was being silly (and okay, perhaps a little catty) there is an underlying message here. It is so important to pick a ring to fit someone’s personality. Cushion or asscher. Round of rectangular. Colored stone or clear. There is a ring that is truly perfect for you. Shine on little lady. Wear that bling loud and proud!
I Can Do Anything You Can Do Better…
It seems as though nowadays it is a competition to see who can come up with the most unique and romantic marriage proposal. Well, I am sure that was always a competition between men. However, now You Tube is overflowing with uploads which are being shared with the world and popping up on hundreds of websites and radio shows. I just wanted to share a few of my very favorites…
It’s OK – Wedding Edition
1- It’s OK to have guests RSVP via your wedding website
Getting convenient and going green!
2- It’s OK not to go all white with the wedding gown
Vera Wang Spring 2012 Bridal Collection
3- It’s OK not to have real flowers for your bouquet
Bridal blogs are wonderful places for inspiration- BridalHood is a great one!
4- It’s OK not to have a floral centerpiece
Citrus centerpieces are the perfect floral centerpiece alternatives for a spring/summer wedding
When life gives you lemons, squeeze them for all they’re worth! – Unknown
5- It’s OK to have an adults only wedding
They are cute and all, but…
6- It’s OK to make your neighbor’s dogs your “flower girl” and “ring bearer.”
Check out this video:
7- It’s OK not to wear a traditional veil
Tessa Kim makes some beautiful Bridal veils and accessories
8- It’s OK not to wear heels
If Kate Middleton did it, it must be okay
9- It’s OK to delegate tasks
There is a lot to do and your bridal party is there to help you!
10- It’s OK not to have an extensive/fancy menu
Fansiest watermelon I’ve ever seen. Hors d’oeuvres all the way!
Have You Heard The Big News?…
We are a featured vendor on one of the biggest media companies that help woman all over the nation to plan their wedding!! A lot of hard work and love has been put into growing Dolcet, and we are so proud to see it blossom. Please support and help us grow!
Guys Can Have Their Cake & Eat It Too!
A nasty storm is brewing outside and I cannot bring myself to go to bed. I know I am going to be paying for this via 7 cups of coffee tomorrow at the office. While refusing to rest my bones, I have cranked up the tunes and looking through my brand new issue of Martha Stewart Weddings. That woman is all kinds of genius. The new Spring season cover has an assortment of pastel colored, simple yet captivating and, might I add, delicious looking cakes. How often to you see a piece about the groom’s cake? Sometimes, not often, not often enough. I like to be silly time to time, have you caught on to that yet? Regardless, the below groom cakes are not a joke. No joke at all.
Not my preference of beer, but I can handle it
Certainly helps ease the cake cutting process!
Only thing that could make this better is if a real life hamburger popped out of the cake
$5 to whoever can guess where I went to college
I see London, I see France…
…I can see your panty tree? Oh la la! Now let’s not forget the cakes in the shape of phallic objects, male strippers, and all other things that make bachelorette parties special. A lingerie party is great for a bride to be. However, if you would like to shake things up a little consider this:
http://uk.wishpot.com/public/users/blog.aspx?uid=22221
Now, hopefully yours will be indoors…because we want to keep things classy!
Vendor Of The Week- Pixel & Hank!
I randomly came across Pixel & Hank on Twitter and I check out their stuff all the time! Daisy is the proud designer, owner, and maker of all things cool and cute for this awesome company. Brides- She makes the most beautiful cage veils, hair, and shoe accessories for your big day (amongst so many other gorgeous things). Check out her hand-made works of art…
CREDITS:
Photography: Amy Carroll Photography
Environmental Styling: Jaime of Hey Day
Accessories and model styling: Pixel & Hank
Models: Nicole and Ben of the cutest shop I heart Ipanema
Hair: Stacy Jensen
Makeup: Erin France
Red caplet: Threadrare
Heart Marshmallow: Oh Yum
Trendy Lou Who
It’s April 2011, the flowers are in full bloom, and the pollen is ruining everything. But more importantly, a new year means new trends in all things wedding. Here is a sneak peak to- Ready, set, GO!…
Vintage Chic
http://daisypinkcupcake.blogspot.com
Fairy Tale Gowns
http://tv.popcrunch.com/carrie-bradshaw-wedding-dress/
Going Green
http://www.invitesite.com/wedding-invitations.php
Outdoor Weddings
D.I.Y.
http:// http://weddingtips123.com
Sophisticated Simplicity & Clean Lines
http://www.weddingdressfashion.org
Greys & Metallics
J. Crew via http://boards.weddingbee.com
Non Traditional Veils
http://soireekeywest.wordpress.com
Bold Designs & Colors
Romantic & Soft Embellishments
Embracing Cultural Traditions
http://www.indianshaadi.org/tag/indian-wedding/
Alternative Registries (Honeymoon Funds, Home Down Payments, etc.)
Non Traditional Seating
D.I.Y. Your Face Off
A DIY mentality is the first step towards a one-of-a-kind wedding. – Holly Curtis and Billy Vreeland
Nowadays it is not only economical, but trendy to do a d.i.y. wedding. For those of you who may not know, d.i.y. stands for “do it yourself.” If you are creative, more power to you, but even if you are not you can totally pull this stuff off. Below I have posted some pictures under their respective categories, and really they speak for themselves!
Save The Dates & Invites
Engagement shoot pictures used on WWW.VistaPrint.Com
Centerpieces & Decorations
Wedding Favors
http://www.brides.com & http://www.weddingbycolor.com
Wedding Sign
Whitaker Wedding -
http://www.twochicsphotography.com
Table Numbers
Ring Pillow
http://www.do-it-yourself-weddings.com
Shoes
Whitaker Wedding -
http://www.twochicsphotography.com&http://www.weddingbycolor.com
Guest “Books”
Place Card
http://loveandcinta.wordpress.com
Ring Bearer
Whitaker Wedding -
http://www.twochicsphotography.com
Cake Toppers
Here are some more helpful websites & where to navigate to find inspirations!
- http://www.diyweddingsmag.com/
- www.hobbylobby.com > Project Inspiration > Browse by Category > Wedding
- www.michaels.com > Projects > Wedding
- http://www.theknot.com > Wedding Ideas > DIY Wedding Ideas
- http://www.marthastewartweddings.com > Inspiration > DIY Weddings
- http://www.paper-source.com > Invitations and Events > DIY Invitations
Quarter Life Non-Crisis
I am about to turn 25 and I am supposed to be excited? I have yet to hear anything good about the realm I am about to enter. Apparently a quarter of my life is gone and the rest is about to suck. Go Wikipedia “quarter life crisis.” Here is a list of emotional issues I am supposed to be preparing for, and what I have to say about them:
• Confronting one’s own mortality- The only context I think about death in is thinking how life is too short so I have to live every day to the fullest.
• Insecurity concerning ability to love oneself let alone another person- I am eternally in love and engaged, so I think that answers it.
• Insecurity regarding present accomplishments- Using “insecurities” and “accomplishments” in the same sentence seems like quit the oxymoron to me.
• Re-evaluation of close interpersonal relationships- Sometimes you do need to weed out things and or people in your life that are affecting you negatively. However, if you find yourself in this cycle constantly the person you may have to re-evaluate is yourself.
• Lack of friendships or romantic relationships, sexual frustration, and involuntary celibacy- None of the above!
• Disappointment with one’s job- I am one of the lucky few that loves my job. Granted, not every second of everyday is cherries, gumdrops, and double rainbows, but no I would certainly not use the word “disappointed.”
• Nostalgia for university, college, high school, middle school or elementary school life- Hell yes! You know why? Because I did it all “right,” but I am happy to have grown out of that phase and on to the next one!
• Tendency to hold stronger opinions- About certain things, yes. But at the same time, I am a believer that you learn something new every day so I always work at keeping an open mind because I never want to limit myself.
• Boredom with social interactions- Absolutely…NOT! There are times where I like to just be with me, myself, and I, but I also could not live without my friends and family. Let’s be honest- at the end of a “me” day, I am so tired of, well, me.
• Loss of closeness to high school and college friends- Not necessarily. We have all grown up and gone on, so a lot of people have drifted apart not because they did not want to be friends, but because they have simply grown up. People I care about, I keep in touch with.
• Financially-rooted stress (overwhelming college loans, unexpectedly high cost of living)- I am certainly not paid a lot, but I am also young. As Elliot says “we will never make this little money again.” Hard work will pay off all in due time! So, no, I do not let myself stress over this. It is pointless. I make enough to have a roof over my head, eat, and play!
• Loneliness, depression and suicidal tendencies- No, no, and definitely no!
• Desire to have children- I have a small gift bag of baby clothes in my closet. Do I want a baby? Not anytime soon! I just forgot to give my friend her gift when she had a son…two years ago.
• A sense that others are doing better than oneself- There are enough Kevin Federlines and Charlie Sheens in the world to make me feel like a rock-star…not that I needed them to boost my confidence.
• Frustration with social skills- Nazli the social butterfly. So, no.
…a.k.a.- I think this is all a load of b.s.
“Don’t worry, it’s going to me amazing!”- Unknown
I have had twenty five amazing years. I have done my best to make the best out of every day, so I will just keep doing that. No suicidal thoughts, no insecurities about love and friends, and no depression here. No thanks.
As for Dolcet, we just celebrated our FIRST birthday! Yay! The idea for Dolcet started out as an epiphany over lunch at a Mexican joint with dad, and now look! I thought weddings were the crux of event planning and the last thing I would want to do. My mom always tells me to watch what I say because you never know what life will hand you. Why does she always have to be right? It just so happened that my first two clients were brides and I was wrong- I LOVE planning weddings! Now, on top of it all, I am planning my own. Double whammy. Having been in the event industry for my 9-5 (or more like my 24/7) has helped me to be good at what I do. That is right, I am totally tooting my own horn.
Here is a message from Brooke-
I am so lucky to have you. If I haven’t told you yet how amazing and helpful you’ve been, I need to do that. I don’t know what I would do without you. Seriously!! Every time I am stressed, all I have to do is call you and all is well again. I can finally be excited about my wedding!
This is why I love Dolcet and why I love what I do.
I Will Love You Forever
Pretty sure I have been dreaming for the past month. I am still convinced I will wake up any minute now. Nevertheless, I am not hallucinating and I really am just that blessed. Here is the story…
I met Elliot over three years ago. Yes, that does mean there is a story of when he met me, but I do not exactly remember that one. I will have to come up with a better story to tell my children one day. It is one of those cheesy stories where the first date was beyond perfect and we connected extraordinarily well, and the rest is history. We never stopped hanging out after that first date. I did not want to see it at first how perfect this “thing” we had was. Have you ever been on the free fall ride? It is terrifying, it is fun, and it is breathtaking all wrapped into one. That is what being with Elliot felt like until I just decided to let go. Best decision I have ever made.
This guy touched a place in my heart deeper than I thought I was capable of being reached.- Eat, Pray, Love
After an absurd amount of nachos, laughs, good times, a vacation to Cancun, and a proposal later…we are engaged and I could not be happier!
The Golden Ratio
For a girl that works a full time job, started her own company and slowly getting it off the ground, makes time to go out with friends, and spends time with the boyfriend and family…really, sometimes I do not know how I do it. Sometimes I feel like throwing the alarm clock across the room, sometimes I pray for extra hours in the day, but at the end of the day it all comes together and works out perfectly. I just started a pretty heavy travel schedule for work- holy cow. Why is it that when you fly, all of the energy gets sucked out of you? It’s not like I am flying the plane. It is exhausting just thinking about the process of travelling. Lugging bags around the airport, what a pain. This makes me sound ultra lazy, I’m not…I just would love a personal assistant sometimes. Last week I was in Phoenix, tomorrow I leave for the city of angels, the week after that I’m off to Miami, then a week at home before taking my first vacation in what seems like YEARS to Mexico! I am so stoked for eight days in paradise. Elliot is pretty much a baller and EARNED this trip for us by being within the fifty people in the NATION for his company in sales. So as a thank you, I made him some awesome French toast. Oh, this was after a night of one too many drinks topped off by Jäger bombs. Bad idea? Yes and no. Hey, by the way, did I mention that it is 12:30pm and I am still in bed? Woke up, made coffee for myself, watched a movie in bed (documentary called Exit Through The Gift Shop about street art, so cool, made me want to graffiti the entire apartment, watch it), and I don’t really plan on moving any time too soon. I am savoring every bit of relaxation time I can get. How could I forget, amidst all the beautiful chaos in my life I am moving into a new apartment in two weeks. My room is a mess, and I do not plan on doing anything about it today. Isn’t that the universal rule for Sundays anyways? Just because I am lounging does not mean my brain is not working a million miles a minute. I am going to hop on the phone with Brooke and Nancy today to brain storm creative wedding ideas with them. I am also trying to put together a percentage night at a bar to raise money for breast cancer. Just chuck full of ideas.
Today I am going to digress from the usual fitting photo and share a video that is totally unrelated, but just makes me laugh.
The Apple of My Ohio
I’m always up for a challenge. I used to hate running, then I joined my high school track team. I used to hate running long distance, and then I signed up for my first half marathon, which turned out to be the first of many. It is one thing after the next, but you get the idea. So, what is the latest on my plate of adventures? I’m planning a wedding. Okay duh. Here is the catch- the couple lives in Ohio!
I met a sweet, fun, sassy-molass of a girl back in college at the University of Georgia. Nancy and I just clicked. She moved off to Washington and then to Ohio with her now fiancé, I graduated two years later, and somewhere in-between we lost touch. Of course we later admitted to secretly stalking each other on Facebook, but that is beside the point. We both messaged each other a couple of weeks ago thinking how ridiculously long it had been since we had any kind of true dialogue. The conversation began to flow so naturally, like we were back in the Creswell office working. Well, more like gossiping about the latest happening around the college dorm. Next thing I know, I’m writing up the future Mrs. Herin’s contract to plan her wedding in Athens! I’m so excited to be planning a wedding in the “classic city.”
Cheers to you Nanners and Chip! 
New Year, Less Furgaliciousness, More Walking
We are now a solid week into 2011. First off, I cannot believe we have entered 2011, much less that is has been an entire week. Last quarter at work was just incredibly hectic. I am surprised I still have my head on straight. So, whilst sipping on cocktails (a bucket of shots, a vodka soda, and a beer to be exact) on new year’s eve with Elliot and asking him “what are your new year’s resolutions,” I realized I had not made any! I think maybe it is better this way. I feel like everyone’s resolutions are always the same. “Lose 10lbs, make more money, blah, blah, and more blah.” In a few weeks, all of those people are complaining about how they have already broken a resolution. I understand how the new year is like a clean slate, but I think the reason most people give up on their goals is because they overwhelm themselves. Being healthy and happy should be something we all practice daily and strive to make into a lifestyle for ourselves. With a positive attitude and ambition we can all do this, and everything else we hope to accomplish will follow.
Will Farrell wants to get at least thirteen hours of sleep a night. Beiber wants to shave every day regardless of if he has any facial hair or not. Iam Gomez wants more couch couch and less walk walk. Fergie wants to be less Fergalicious. James Franco wants to drive less and walk more to help the environment. Me? I want to travel to New Zealand. These are resolutions I can deal with.
Happy New Year!
Above- Atlanta Falcons’ 2011 resolution.
2011…Say WHAT?!
Sitting on the couch watching the E! special on Taylor Swift (yep, I am guilty) all I can think about is how mentally and physically exhausted I am. Lately, it seems as if the days are blending into weeks and months and poof… I cannot believe that it is December already! I find myself in complete shock every new month we enter. Then, as if the Rent gods were peaking at me through the clouds, a commercial came on…
Five hundred twenty-five thousand
Six hundred minutes,
Five hundred twenty-five thousand
Moments so dear.
Five hundred twenty-five thousand
Six hundred minutes
How do you measure, measure a year?In daylights, in sunsets, in midnights
In cups of coffee
In inches, in miles, in laughter, in strife.In five hundred twenty-five thousand
Six hundred minutes
How do you measure
A year in the life?How about love?
How about love?
How about love? Measure in love
So, how do YOU measure a year in life? 2010 is coming to a scarily fast close.
You have one intimate date; just you and life- make it count!
A Heart Full of Gratitude
I can’t believe Thanksgiving is tomorrow. WHAT? Not only is it crazy that November is almost over, but that means the year is coming to an end. Question- where did it go?! At some point this past year did we all hop into a time machine? Sigh
Thanksgiving is great- really, for many reasons other than just football (Elliot, I know…), family, and massive amounts of food that put you into hibernation. This month everyone has been sharing one thing that they are thankful each day. Seeing this made me think how we take so much for granted; this is something we should take the time to recognize every day.
God gave you a gift of 86,400 seconds today. Have you used one to say thank you?
– William A. Ward
Okay, so I don’t mean to be a hypocrite because I have not been sharing the things that I am thankful for each day. With that said, here is my list of thirty…
1) Starbucks, thank you for your season lattes. Your triple skinny venti caramel brulee sure did hit the spot today. Even if it did cost me almost $6
2) Leftovers. Especially right now when I am so comfy on the sofa in front of the TV with no desire to get up and cook or run out to buy food. Cold risotto? It’ll do.
3) Red wine. Who needs a therapist?
4) Pay day. No explanation needed here.
5) On that note, the fact that I have a job is pretty awesome. It is sad that these days you’re considered lucky if you are employed.
6) My sister for helping me to develop patience throughout the years. This is not my strong point, but a work in progress!
7) My mom. Is it going to sound cliché if I say she is my best friend? So be it, she is. I called her the other day because I could not decide what color sheets to get. WHAT IF I had purchased the chocolate brown Ralph Lauren sheets instead of the taupe Calvin Klein ones?! Heaven forbid.
8) My dad. He has spoiled me, yet kept me incredibly humble. What a man.
9) The fact that On The Border is a mile from my apartment. My waistline may not be thankful for this, but that’s where the gym comes into play.
10) Number nine brings me to be thankful for my personal trainer, Soje, at www.heataltanta.com. I may hate you when you tell me to run at an incline after I almost threw up doing burpees, but that hate is only temporary.
11) Without getting too pookie, my Elliot. I kind of like the guy. As Spencer said, we have the same core values: good food, good drinks, and just having a good time. Is our mutual love for goldfish and twizzlers a category in and of itself? They should be.
12) With Elliot comes an amazing family, if I may say so myself. I’m practically like their adopted daughter. For me this means a lot, some of which include DMB concerts, Vallarta dinners, and three awesome dogs I never had the pleasure of personally owning myself.
13) My natural knack for cooking. I do not quite know how, but I am pretty good at it. No recipes, no lessons, but just the occasional guidance from dad (who was a former chef). It is not often that I cook, but when I do, it sure is nice to see people close their eyes and say “mmm.”
14) A clean bill of health! I have one body and one chance at life, so I give my all to make sure everything is running smoothly.
15) My new running shoes. My knees feel as good as new, who knew. Thanks Nike!
16) The Thanksgiving Day half-marathon. I am earning that meal tomorrow night!
17) Music. You do wonders and I cannot imagine life without you. Something for every mood. Music is my drug.
18) Chocolate. Good for my it is just GOOD. 
19) People who use those seventeen smiling muscles to turn those lips UP. Life is short, be happy people.
20) It’s almost winter, and I am not translucent. Thanks Alicia! Go to www.spraystudioatl.com, I promise you will not be disappointed! Tanning beds and cancer are so out, get with it fake-bakers!
21) Every single person I work with. You all keep me sane!
22) My girlfriends. They all hold a different place in my heart, all so beautiful inside and out, all so different, yet I adore them each individually. I swear I am going to be one of those girls with thirty bridesmaids.
23) Two day work weeks with five days off. Why can’t we just flip the script a little?
24) Sweat pants, hoodies, and being in them all day on a rainy dark Sunday with movies.
25) TCBY. Frozen yogurt- good. Oreo, snickers, and cookie doe toppings- bad. Result- negative calories. Right? Whatever.
26) The beauty behind a handwritten note. With ecards, emails, and texts it makes me hope that this art never disappears. One of my girlfriends Allie feels the same. Check out www.thesecretlifeofinvites. Amazing right?
27) Photography. I have always had a fascination for this art. It is incredible the things a camera can capture. Okay, I feel like a PR girl right now, but check out Andy’s breath taking work at www.andybaxterphotography.com. I have the most talented friends!
28) Christian Louboutin for making the most beautiful shoes I have ever seen. Mark my words; I will own a pair one day…soon.
29) Celebrity gossip columnists, you entertain me TOO much.
30) Life. It is amazing, and I love mine.
Badgley My Mischka
What’s the main wedding accessory this season? The dress shoes! Seriously, lately I’ve read more about ways to be unique with your shoe selection than your dress. It’s no longer the item that doesn’t matter because nobody will see them. I’ve seen and loved some shots of Chuck Taylors, ballet flats, and cowboy boots under a gorgeous gown. So, what has been my favorite? Ahh…it’s hard to say, but I’m going to have to give credit to my newly married friend, Mrs. Whitham. Pink and ruffles? These won me over…
“Give a girl the right pair of shoes, and she can conquer the world!”- Stephanie Connolly
Ghoulies and Ghosties and Long-Leggedy Beasties
Ahh, the leaves are falling, there’s a slight chill in the air, and I’m sipping on piping hot pumpkin spice coffee. Do I love fall? Well, yes I do. However, what I really love that is waiting right around the corner (2 days, 3 hours, 2 minutes, and 57 seconds to be exact- but who is counting?) is…HALLOWEEN!
Just another excuse to party you say? Okay, I’m guilty. My “get out of jail free card” for dressing up like an idiot? Okay, REALLY guilty and I’m not ashamed! My question here is, WHY does this glorious holiday come once a year? Honestly- spandex, big hair, glitter, and all the chocolate you want (okay I get it, sounds like any other weekend for some) how are you going to hate that? Personally, I didn’t spend 3 hours in traffic to go get decorations for my party for giggles. I did it because (well the planner in me took over and started running) I love any excuse to just have a good time and step outside the box! This all circles back to one thought I had the other day. There are emails flying around all the time about some party or other, and it’s always the same who, what, where, and why. Point is to be unique! With that said- What are YOU going to dress up as for this fabulous occasion? Don’t tell me you’re going to be the next (less conservative version) of Cinderella or Heidi. After all, this does come once a year.
Here are some great ideas:
- Bruno- See, guys can take off a few layers too. By that I mean, put a fresh blade on that Mach 3 razor boys- please.
- Madonna- No, not “Like a Virgin” but circa 1989 “Vogue.”
- Avatar- I overheard someone saying her boyfriend was shaving everything and paying $300 to be spray painted as one of these creatures. Slightly overboard, but you have to love the effort. I think…
- Anything Jersey Shore- Preferably just go as Snookie’s poof.
- I will close with paying homage to my favorite costumer, Nikky a la Flying Unicorn. Pay attention to the picture, take notes, and respect the awesomeness…
Think Pink
My friend Kristen has been through more in the past year than most of us have been through our entire lives. I wanted to interview her in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month to help bring awareness to this deadly disease so many women face and a wonderful cause to help potentially find a cure. 
Describe what the past year has been like for you?
I was diagnosed a little over a year ago with breast cancer
and all went pretty quickly form there. I had my first surgery shortly after my diagnosis where they put in a port to use for chemo injections. I had a grueling six treatments in six months. Then, I had a bilateral mastectomy in February, had two weeks of recovery and two weeks of physical therapy after that. Next, I had a month and a half of radiation, and in May I was finallydone with treatment!
So now you’re in remission?
Yes. Well, technically no because with my type of breast cancer they can’t consider me “cancer free” for 15 years, so I’ll be on meds for 10 years, and have injections and blood tests every month for five years. So, I’d say I’m 95% there!
How did you get involved with the American Cancer Society?
I was picked to be an honoree at the golf tournament called the Tournament of Hope for the American Cancer Society out of Gwinnet County. My dad played in the tournament, and his partner worked with the ACS. He talked to me about what I wanted to do after my treatments were done so that was really a no-brainer for me.
Explain how exactly you’re involved with ACS currently
I’ve been interning for about two months, and one of our main events is Relay for Life. It’s been a great experience because I have had the opportunity to work with people who are going through what I went through for the past year of my life. Being so young and being a survivor has been a blessing because I have the ability to help other survivors. That is why being involved with the ACS is so important to me.
How has working with the ACS inspired you for the future/future plans?
When I graduated college I wasn’t exactly sure what I wanted to do, but after this experience and my internship with the American Cancer Society, I’ve realized what I have a passion for. This is a cause that affects pretty much everyone, and I feel that if I have the opportunity to help others I should. I’ve learned so much over the last year, and I want to help others in ways that I was helped. I want to continue working with ACS, but eventually I would like to start my own non-profit organization. My idea is combining two of my passions…non-profits and dogs. I’ve thought of possibly starting an organization that helps to rescue and train dogs in order to have them adopted by cancer patients to help them through their recovery. My idea has stemmed from my own experience as a dog owner and how my dog helped me get through everything; anything from exercising with her to even emotional support.
Go to Kristen’s blog at http://kpspur.blogspot.com/ to learn more about her and her fight against breast cancer.
You can join her Relay for Life team by going to http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR?fr_id=32792&pg=entry and search Team Spurlock. The event is not until May 6, 2011 and it’s only a measly $15 to join. If you can’t participate, you can always make a donation for the amount of your choice. Either way, for Kristen and all others who have battled or are still fighting against breast cancer, or in honor of those who have lost their lives to it- please, spread the word.
WAIT! BROOKE IS ENGAGED?!
10:30pm on a regular old weekday evening.
Perusing around Facebook as I watch t.v. in bed just to unwind.
“Congratulations!” “I’m so happy for you!” Aww that’s good.
WAIT! BROOKE IS ENGAGED?!
Don’t you hate finding out stuff about one of your closest friends through Facebook? I immediately call Brooke and we are both just going a million miles a minute from excitement. “Nazli, I’m so sorry! Kyle posted a picture of the ring on Facebook before I had a chance to call anybody!” The next ten minutes is spent getting details on how he proposed, where he proposed, and most importantly- the RING! A lot of people have been getting engaged in the past year or so, but this is my first close friend to get engaged! Here is the kicker…
In the midst of all the excitement Brooke pauses and there’s a brief moment of silence.
“Okay, wait. Let’s just make it official. I want you to be my wedding planner!”
Yay! No, wait…WHAT?! Did that really just happen? I always said I would be open to planning a wedding but I felt that it was the crux of all event planning. Now look at me! My first “official” client and the event is none other than a wedding!
I can’t wait to put this soirée together! Stay tuned for details J
Some Interesting Party Concepts -
It was random Google search night for me.
I was thinking to myself how there are so many globally recognized parties such as the running of the bulls in Pamplona, Oktoberfest in Germany, La Tomatino in Valencia (30,000 person food fight and nope, I’m not kidding). So it made me curious as to what else was floating around out there. Here are some of the more interesting ones I ran across:
- The San Francisco Bay to Breakers – Long story short, you get drunk, dress up like a fool, and run a mile. Personally, I think this sounds more fun than the Thanksgiving Day half marathon that’s looming over my head.
- National Tequila Day- This has B-A-D idea written all over it. Really. Enough said.
- Testical Festival- I did not care to research any further on this one. I figured the name says it all.
- Louisiana Mudfest- Off roading that redefines Pike Nursery’s slogan “Play in the Dirt.”
- Flash Mob Pillow Fight- Sorry boys but no, this does not actually happen in sorority houses across the nation.
- Glastonbury Festival- “On a farm for a weekend of live music, theater, circus extravaganzas, medieval tranquility, nighttime cinema, burlesque shows, blackjack, and even gourmet food served by a secret roster of world-famous chefs.” This description made me think that these are the things I would be hallucinating after attending the National Tequila Day!
Company of the Week
I really love how some sites have a company of the week they recognize.
I think it is wonderful because it is always nice to get recognition, especially as a company that is starting up, and get the word out about a unique establishment. It is also a great asset to consumers because they learn about smaller organization they could utilize, companies that they probably would not have known about otherwise. This is another reason why social media is so awesome! So I decided I wanted to do my own version of this! It may be a band, it may be a restaurant, a caterer, a boutique, who knows! Here is my first one…
Personal Chef Atlanta
The man behind it all is Cameron Leaman. Cameron does not just do catering for dinner parties, he does private and group cooking lessons, private parties, a romantic dinner for two, fully cooked meals for the week with heating instructions, and even cocktail parties. Best part is, Cameron does all of the grocery shopping and **gasp** the ever so dreaded cleaning!
Personal Chef Atlanta is on Facebook and Twitter, so help support a local cuisine guru!
A Fresh Breath of Air
Yesterday I sat down to write and just could not get it together.
Creativity was not on my side! After typing and deleting countless times, I decided to walk away and get a fresh breath of air. You shouldn’t force inspiration and creativity; it’s something that I feel should come from within. After getting a good night’s sleep I woke up to run and clear my head.
As I sat down with my first of two cups of coffee for today, I realized the things in life that inspire me.
My amazing family, my friends who I would be lost without, my one of a kind loving boyfriend, music that feeds my soul, indulging in good food, a delicious glass of wine, sunny weather, a simple smile from an unknown passerby, a good loving hug…these are the things that inspire me!
These things put me in a hell of a good mood and all of a sudden the lights come on in my head and sparks start flying! In a weird way, the moral of this blog is to always strive to do things in life that make you happy and with hard work and dedication, the rest will follow.
“Destiny is a relationship between divine grace and wilful self-effort.” – Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert.
What’s the Best Party You’ve Ever Been To?
I asked some of my friends “what is the best party you have ever been to and why?”
Seems like a simple question, but it really got people thinking! I got an array of answers, but the correlation between them all was organization and attention to detail. My new job has certainly helped in honing in on these skills, but more than anything it has taught me to be resourceful.
Sometimes you will hit speed bumps along the way because there are so many moving parts of planning an event. Like other jobs, you have to depend on a lot of other people to make sure your part goes right. So, you must be proactive! At times it seems tedious, but when an event comes together so smoothly it is an incredibly rewarding feeling and makes every bit of the hard work worth it!
So for all you aspiring event planners, this is the biggest and most valuable piece of advice I can offer you!
One Wild Ride
For me, the past 6 months has tail spun my life into one wild ride.
After college I was working what was my dream job for all my life. Through this job I was lucky enough to be allowed the freedom to explore and find my niche within the industry. I started to do something that I always had fun with and simply came natural to me; event planning. One flawless event after the next, I proved myself as quit the coordinator.
One day I came to a realization that event planning is what I was actually meant to do.
I didn’t waste one minute. I called up a friend who designs websites and immediately got to work. Two weeks later I got a call from the president of a big time event marketing firm to come on board as an event planner for a new account they just signed. Wow! So much was happening at once.
I guess it’s really true, when it rains it pours! I was so humbled that I had the opportunity to take this enormous responsibility. Of course I took the position. I would have been foolish not to. My goal is to make the most of this break while getting Dolcet Events up and running, and well…I have so much floating around in my head that I think I need to take it one step at a time.
So far the experience with my new job has been amazing. I have learned a lot, met a lot of people, and all around come a long way. I can’t thank my friends and family for all their support, I truly am lucky. So if you’re following me on my journey I would like to thank you and ask that you keep spreading the word!