As I’m perusing through these wedding blogs, and viewing the countless photos of brides walking on the beach or stomping thru the rain with rainboots and an umbrella, some advice came to mind for new brides.

I remember getting all dolled up for my own wedding and being a bit paranoid about getting my off white dress dirty. I recall getting a smudge on the front of the dress and at first, feeling this rush of anxiety. My dressmaker, who was also on hand sadly told me that trying to remove the smudge would more than likely make it worse and to try and not worry about it. Telling a bride to not worry about a detail can be, well…falling on deaf ears. But, I decided to take her advice and I’m glad I did.

Throughout the time before the ceremony, I was with my photographer, giving him free rein to pretty much put me anywhere he thought he could get a great shot. That even meant spreading out my dress in the middle of the lobby of the Intercontinental Buckhead Hotel and laying back on it (my dressmaker would die) while guests arriving at the hotel are wheeling their luggage by, wondering what the heck is this girl doing on the floor.  But you know…those were some of the best, most memorable photos I have out of the bunch.

Bottom line, have faith in your photographer, take chances with your photos, any smudges can be photoshopped if need be, and unless you’re walking thru a mud puddle, I’m guessing most people won’t even notice the bit of dirt you’ve gotten on her. But the end result, priceless photos you will adore for the rest of your life.

I’m a little late in posting this, but in the fall of 2009 we were approached by Lara Casey, editor of Southern Weddings Magazine to contribute to a “Watercolors” themed photoshoot. Knowing the amazing people she works with, we were thrilled to participate. The theme was described as “Marie Antoinette decadence and classic garden restraint, this pink, blue and stone palette is a sweet but surprisingly bold look.”

We chose to design the menu and knew that lux materials coupled with elegant calligraphy would compliment the theme perfectly. We started off with a powdery blue (real) silk backing. Then, my amazing graphic artist sketched the ribbon/banner design, and lastly we commissioned Robyn with Designs by Robyn Love to provide the calligraphy. Simple and sweet, and the end result, delicious.

Speaking of sweet and delicious, we also chose to provide the favors. Using adorable mini canning jars, we alternated between a tasty lemony/raspberry baked treat, strawberry/kiwi loose leaf tea, and aromatic bath salts. Completing the package we tied vintage wooden spoons and forks with hand ripped silk strands. I wish I could find a photo online, but you can see our work (and larger photos of our menu design) in the Southern Weddings Magazine, Volume II, pages 47-48.

Photo courtesy of Our Labor of Love.

Hello beautiful, where have you been all my life? Look at these AMAZING shoes by Sergio Rossi. These nude heels could easily compliment any wedding dress. And if you’re bold enough, pair them with some rolled up boyfriend jeans and a tank for the summer. Divine.

Listen up all you reality loving brides…YOU could be on the next show! Simply click on the image above to find out when and where casting will be (Atlanta brides - Feb 21-26) and fill out your submission information. Good Luck!!

I came across this designer on another site a while back and simply fell in love. Each dress inspires a whole new wedding theme and I get lost in the excitement of decorating around the dress. Corny I know, but it’s the designer in me. Claire’s dresses are like a fusion of old and new. Fun and romantic cuts, but use of vintage fabrics and lace equals pure beauty. Of course I’m including a few photos (those are the best parts) but if you want to see the rest of her designs, including her Rock-n-Roll Bridal collection, go here: Claire Pettibone Bridal

And for you more non-traditional, gutsy, “I got the legs for this dress and you don’t” brides, I present the Lief dress:

What an amazing time! If you weren’t able to make it, this is what you missed. The night started at the Bridal Bar, allowing brides, vendors and press to peruse through bridal gown, invitation, and floral displays, not to mention the MOUNTAIN of Godiva chocolates to pick at while you look. Owners and vendors were on hand to explain what the Bridal Bar is all about and to answer any questions and our lovely sponser Jezebel Magazine was on hand taking pictures of guests.

Then, waiting outside was the limo bus to shuttle guests to and from the reception at Lee Brant Jewelers. When you arrive at the reception, you step out onto the “pink carpet” where there was the oh so chic, step and repeat provided by Our Labor of Love.

Once inside the store you are taken aback by the size of this place! We were immediately handed a piece of paper and pen to be entered into a drawing for a $500 gift certificate, and I don’t know who won that price, but whomever they are, I’m sure they’re heaven! Admittedly I have never been to Lee Brant Jewelers, but I know better now. They have some of the most amazing pieces I have ever seen! Definitely top notch! As I’m getting sucked in by looking at the cases and cases of jewelry, I can’t help but to start bopping my head to the music coming over the speakers. I look around to see who’s DJing, and it’s none other than the talented and hilarious Joel from Lethal Rhythms.

Upstairs is packed to the hilt with guests trying to get their fill on the delicious tasting stations that were set up. Soiree, Epting Events, Sun In My Belly, and Gloriosa had some fabulous food prepared. Can you say “mmmmm…tenderloin sliders.” Also upstairs were a ton of bite size cupcakes in every imaginable flavor. Kudos to Sweet N Sinful, Lu Lu’s Bakery, and Sweet Sensations for blowing my diet. Not that I mind, but I need someone to blame for extra pounds. D-lic!

It was hot and packed, but also fun and eye opening. I got to see my fellow vendors in action, doing what they do best and realizing why they too were chosen to be a part of the Bridal Bar Atlanta. Simply an amazing group of individuals who are talented and truly have a passion for what they do. I felt honored to be considered “one of them.”

I’ll sign out and leave you with a few photos from the Smile Booth provided by Our Labor of Love.

The beautiful owner of the Atlanta Bridal Bar, Rebecca:

Introducing the Publisher/Editor in Chief of Southern Weddings Magazine, Lara Casey and the founder and owner of the L.A. and San Diego Bridal Bar, Harmony Walton:

And last, but certainly not least, give it up for the amazing ladies that make the Atlanta Bridal Bar tick, Jaimi, Rebecca and Anne:

This post is a bit overdue, but it’s official, Cherry Blossom Creations has been pre-screened and selected to be a preferred vendor of The Bridal Bar Atlanta.

For those of you who are not familiar, The Bridal Bar is a boutique that supplies a complimentary peek at the pre-screened best of the best in the wedding industry. The founders have searched high and low to compile an extensive group of event professionals who have been cordially invited to display their works based on style, experience, and impeccable reputation in their fields of expertise.

Brides can lounge on a couch, sip complimentary champagne, view videos and DVD reels, enjoy music samples and photographers’ images, taste cakes and much more. The Bridal Bar allows the discerning bride-to-be to preview and plan for the perfect event. Our staff is here to assist and encourage the ideal that every couple deserves their dream wedding.

We’re honored to be part of such an extraordinary group of wedding and event specialist.  Come by, talk to the owner Rebecca or chat it up with her associate Jaimi, and see what they have to offer.  I guarantee you won’t be disappointed!