Ring Love

My post from earlier today put me in a mood for detail shots, so here are some more ring shot beauties from Ben & Dan at The Photography Team.

(all images copyright The PhotographyTeam)

Pro Pics Teaser {Michele+Tim}

I'm under the weather this weekend, recouping from bronchitis, and becoming addicted to "So You Think You Can Dance," thanks to the marathon of last seasons episodes I've been sucked into all afternoon! Between naps on the courch, I was pleasantly surprised to receive some of the pro pics from my April 19th wedding, courtesy of photog Ben Pancoast. So, to apologize for my absence from blogging while I continue to be pampered by my husband, and hopefully kick the sickness, here are 2 of my favorite photos from the wedding---expect more soon!I love ring pictures, and this one doesn't let me down---I don't know what it is, but I absolutely adore this picture!

Loving It {Etsy:Gochemoche}

(pictures via Gochemoche on Etsy)

Etsy seller Gochemoche has some of the coolest Japanese-inspired hair pieces and boutonnieres that I couldn't wait to share. I was catching up on my blog reads since being back from vacation, when I came across this real wedding featured by Perfect Bound, one of my favorite daily reads! I was scanning through, attempting to catch up on my 700 (yes, 700!) new posts, and this picture of their custom bouts caught my eye. I checked out the etsy site, and Gochemoche offers so many fun and customizable pieces from bouts to broaches, ponytail holders, and hair pins! Everything is handmade, and made from authentic materials. I must have one, so I'll post pics when I get mine---I haven't even picked from all of the amazing choices yet! These would be absolutely adorable for your 'maids hair, or as a cute gift for your gals!

Destination: Southwest Michigan {Fernwood Botanical Gardens}

(photo copyright MONIKA PHOTO)

Another beautiful outdoor wedding location in Southwest Michigan! Fernwood Botanical Gardens is located on Range Line Road in Niles. Fernwood is a beautiful location for small, intimate weddings. Members are able to reserve an outdoor area and/or meeting room by calling the Visitors Center. The reservation fee, which can be found here, includes admission to all of Fernwood for your wedding party and a pre-specified number of guests (100 people maximum). Fees are based upon the total number of people attending the celebration, including bridal party, parents, and guests.

Thanks to Monika Caban of MONIKA PHOTO for supplying this beautiful photo! I met up with Monika for lunch on Thursday, to talk weddings and go over some of her work! She shared some of her beautiful photos with me, as well as some amazing albums she offers! She is such an open and genuine person, and focuses on the relationships and meaning of the day, to capture the "fleeting moments" of emotion that you will look back on so fondly! She's done a number of amazing outdoor {and indoor} weddings in Southwest Michigan and beyond, so if you're planning a wedding in Southwest Michigan, check her out!

Manage {Your Budget}

(image source)

When planning weddings, I always have a budget to consider. Whether that budget be $15,000, $25,000, or $50,000, I have yet to meet a couple that doesn't have some sort of pre-determined idea of their personal spending limit. Determining the amount you have to spend may be the easy part, but sticking to that magic number often poses a challenge once you become inundated with couture gowns, custom stationery, and every must-have wedding trinket under the sun. It's easy to get carried away, and the longer you wait to set a budget, the more you will get pulled off track. So, first things first, sit down and determine how much you can spend. If parents will be contributing, ask them up front, and find out how much you can expect. You shouldn't assume on a contribution unless you've already discussed it {trust me, you'll be glad you did!}.

I found a great article called "Your Wedding Budget: 41 Ways to Save," which offers great ways to trim your budget, and keep things on track.

Here are a few tips::

Time Is Money
The most important money-saving issue is time. And the less time you have, the more likely you are to make rash decisions and thus compromise your finances. Give yourselves enough time to shop around for the best vendor prices.

Keep it Simple
Forgo the personalized accents; napkins and matchbooks alone can cost several hundred dollars.

Consultants Cut Costs
Hire a wedding consultant. You will undoubtedly recoup his or her fee with the sound advice he or she can provide about getting more or better service for your money.

Limo Limit
Don't get caught up in the idea that you need a wedding cavalcade to transport everyone to the reception. Limit the number of limos you use, or ask a friend with a vintage car to drive the two of you and book a mini bus or van to transport both the wedding party and your parents.

Read the Full Article.

Here Come the Brides{Melinda+James}

Melinda+James are tying the not in the Michiana/South Bend area on October 10, 2009. I sat down and met with them last weekend, and they are such a cool pair. I love fall weddings, and am so excited to work on this one, with such a nice couple! They're planning a gorgeous fall motif with hues of burnt orange and other rich, deep accents. We will also work to carefully incorporate the couple's love of Halloween in a sophisticated and stylish way! We're working with Melinda+James from start to finish, so keep posted for updates on site visits, which are coming soon!

Stepping out {Las Vegas}

Stella Event Design is headed to Las Vegas!
I will be out of the office Saturday through Tuesday, but will keep posting regularly! I will respond to emails when I get back! I love all things that shine, sparkle & glitter{like all of Las Vegas} so look for pretty pics when I get back!

Blog Love {Ritzy Bee Blog}

(Laura Hooper Calligraphy)

The {Ritzy Bee Blog} is one of my favorites. Check out the great information they have posted on Wedding Invitations. They have great tips listed on wording etiquette, titles {ie. Doctor vs. Dr.}, all those envelopes, and more! If you're not already stalking this blog, add it to your list!