Real Wedding: Brittany and Edward

On Sunday, February 8th, the DE Team had the honor of directing a wedding for a lovely couple living in Atlanta, GA.  They wanted their winter wedding reception to be in the Windy City in Chicago's most favorite landmark...the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) on the 99th floor.  The 360 degree views should have been amazing for their 120 guests, but the overcast told a different story.

We had 11 weeks to bring Brittany and Edward's dream wedding to life with the help of some amazing vendors.  Take a look at their red, black and white wedding:

Brittany wore a gorgeous Pronovias wedding gown

Brittany's "something blue" was her beautiful Steve Madden wedding shoes

Juliet Tan Floral Design created her lovely rose and bling bridal bouquet and make-up by Lena Clark MUA.
Hair styling by Shantell at Iridescent Hair Salon

Perfection! Wedding day photography and videography by Rush Productions

Nothing but the best for Edward in his custom tuxedo

Married at Edward's home church on the south-side of Chicago

It's all in the details - low centerpiece design by Juliet Tan Floral Design

It's all in the details - low centerpiece design

Stunning 7-tier wedding cake by Delish Cakes

It's all in the details - Escort card by Calligraphy by CT

Gorgeous tall centerpieces by Juliet Tan Floral Design

Edward's Larry O'Brien NBA Championship trophy groom's cake by Delish Cakes

Brittney & Edward's first dance with music by JAM Music

Skydeck perfection!!!

May have been overcast preventing the Chicago skyline from coming through, but this photo is phenomenal!

Ending the night on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower

Until next time....WEDologize!

Photography by Rush Productions 

Moments Before I Do

Photo captured by Rush Productions

That moment when you have time to yourself to reflect on your relationship with your soon-to-be husband...and you realize that the love that has brought you to this very moment is real...as you stand in your dream wedding gown holding a gorgeous bouquet...before you take your last walk as a single woman...you acknowledge that the trials and tribulations you have had with your fiance don't outweigh the good. Today you say, "I Do"!

Congratulations to all the couples that married in 2015!!!

Until next time...WEDologize!

Hello Matrimony Monday 2015

Well first...congrats on your engagement!!!  What does Matrimony Monday mean?  Well with the most engagements happening between the Christmas and New Year holiday, the Monday after New Year's Day is believed to be the most popular planning day for newly engaged couples.  So of course, I need to be apart of the planning and education :)

If you follow our blog, during the entire month of December 2014, I wrote a blog everyday as I shared all things wedding and inspiration.  Below is the link to all 31 blog posts of #31Days of Blogging that I know will help you as you start to navigate through planning your wedding.

1. Pop of Color for the Bouquet
2. Photography After the Ceremony
3. Popular Low Centerpiece Options
4. Uncooperative Wedding Day Weather
5. Photographing Wedding Rings
6. Right Before You Walk Down the Aisle
7. Along Time on Wedding Day
8. Father of The Groom and Wedding Planning
9. It's All On The Menu
10. The Mirrored Effect Partyscape
11. The First Look
12. Toasting The Happy Couple
13. Taking Care of Your Jewelry
14. Color of the Year 2015
15. Frosting Your Wedding Cake
16. Guest RSVPing and Food Allergies
17. Do Not Eliminate Your Gift Registry
18. Dancing With Your Sweetheart
19. Holiday Gifts for Newlyweds
20. Changing Your Name
21. How To Handle Wedding Programs
22. Wedding Morning Formula
23. "Pick a Seat" Ceremony
24. Out of State Wedding Party
25. Happy Holidays!
26. Reception Bar Basics
27. Lounge Furniture 101
28. Receiving Line of Not
29. An Untouched Ceremony Aisle
30. Table Number Misconception
31. Best of 2014 Dejanae Events Style

Until next time...WEDologize!

(photo credit - Robyn Photography)

An Untouched Ceremony Aisle (Day #29)

I'm big on not allowing wedding guests to walk down the ceremony aisle as they enter the venue.  There isn't a steadfast rule about the aisle, I just find it to set the stage for the wedding party and I feel it should be untouched prior to the start of the ceremony.  And that is especially the case should the aisle runner be pre-laid, if there is elaborate decor or candles positioned down the center aisle.

That is why I will rope off or ribbon off the center aisle and have the hostesses and/or ushers to ask guests to use the side aisles for seating.  Then I will remove the "barrier" just a few moments before the start of the ceremony.  Again, this is just my opinion and please know this entire blog post will be mute if their is no center aisle at the ceremony venue :)
 
Until tomorrow...WEDologize!

(Photo credit - www.vsphoto.com)

To Receiving Line Or Not (Day #28)

Is the "receiving line" a dinosaur??? My personal opinion is YES!  It's rare to see the newly married couple, their bridal party and parents in front of the church quickly greeting guests as they make their way through the line.  Not saying you shouldn't have one, but understand the receiving line does take a long time and can cut into your photography time and reception time if not planned properly.  So what are some alternatives to replace the receiving line:

• Actually schedule ample time for photographs between the ceremony and reception, approximately 2-3 hours. This will then allow you to be apart of your cocktail hour and greet guests at the reception venue.
• Have the DJ make an announcement that the couple will walk around to each table and greet guests individually.
• Plan with the photographer to walk around to each individual table and take photos with you and your guests.

Until tomorrow...WEDologize!

(Photo credit - www.vsphoto.com)

'Pick A Seat' Ceremony (Day #23)

I love when couples do not "force" there wedding guests to pick a side during the ceremony, hence bride's side to the left and groom's side to the right.  On several occasions I have had a very populated side with only 10-15 guests on the opposite side.  That truly makes for awkward photos.

Consider leaving a message at the entrance of the ceremony or inside the wedding program for your guests to "Pick a seat. Not a side".  I mean is the purpose of the wedding day to bring two groups of family and friends together in happiness and fellowship.

http://www.pictage.com/client/eventPhotos.do?event=1594191&category=6&page=1&oldView=fullsize&pageSize=24

Until tomorrow...WEDologize!

How to Handle Wedding Programs (Day #21)

I have met several couples over my career that do not have ushers or hostesses to pass out wedding programs prior to the start of the ceremony.  They are always left with that dreaded question, what to do with those wedding programs?  Now understand, having a program ISN'T a "must have", but when they are not available, you'll find some guests questioning or walking around looking for one.  So how might you resolve this problem without laying the wedding programs on a non-descript table?

• Place a decorative basket near the ceremony entryway and place the programs in there
• Place a program on each chair or every other chair prior to the start of the ceremony
• Create one large program and have it positioned on an easel near the ceremony entryway

Until tomorrow...WEDologize!

(photo credit - www.rushphotovideo.com)

Alone Time on Wedding Day (Day #7)

So should you want a little private time with your new spouse, consider doing the following...or planning this time into the wedding day schedule:

• Right after you have exited the ceremony, dash off to one of the dressing rooms for about 10-15 minutes instead of staying with your bridal party. While the ushers are exiting guests out of the church, you and your spouse can share a tender moment and talk about when you first looked into each other's eyes during the ceremony.


• During cocktails, make a brief exit and walk around the grounds of the reception venue or stand out on the balcony absorbing the day.


• And after you have greeted your guests at their tables, when it's time to freshen up, ask your spouse to come along...I'm sure he'd enjoy helping.

Until tomorrow...WEDologize

(photo credit - www.vsphoto.com)

Right Before You Walk (Day #6)

I love being the last person, outside of the bride's escort, that gets to say a few words before she makes her grand entrance and walks down to aisle.  As a planner, I make sure her train and veil are perfectly placed and that her bouquet is positioned near her navel.  Then once the music starts and has played at least 30 seconds (I must create anticipation) I whisper to her,
"Walk when you are ready. He's waiting on you...".

Until tomorrow...WEDologize!

(photo credit - Rush Photography and Videography)

Photography After The Ceremony (Day #2)

When deciding to take photos in between the ceremony and reception at least allot one hour for the photography session.  And should travel and multiple locations be involved, give yourself at least an hour-and-half.  Make sure to discuss the following with the photographer prior to the wedding (I suggest at least one month before) to ensure the best use of time:

• Scout photography locations near the wedding venue prior to wedding day and make sure to have the addresses handy on wedding day
• Reserve transportation for you, your spouse AND the photographer to get around especially if shooting in high traffic areas
• Make sure to factor in traffic and the time of day you are taking photos when planning out your photography timeline 
• Discuss a "Plan B" option should the locations you initially discussed are not available on wedding day or the weather is uncooperative

Until tomorrow...WEDologize!

(photo credit - www.imphoto.net)

Wedding Planning with Children

Many couples are blending families and the adjustment for the child can sometimes be difficult. With all the wedding planning, the children could feel left out and it's very important to make them feel included during the planning process and on wedding day.  You do not want children to move forward into the marriage feeling resentful of their parent's new partner.
 

 
I've listed some suggestions below that just might help alleviate the "sad face".  Consider including a few, if not all, during your wedding planning.

• Allow the child to be involved in a few of the planning meetings and give their opinion and make sure to take them on appointments with you.
• Give the children perimeters, but allow them to select their attire for wedding day. 
• During the unity candle lighting or sand ceremony, have the child join you both at the altar and make them apart of this important ceremony. 
• Ask the children to come the altar before the pronouncement of husband and wife, and ask the minister to pronounce you as "Husband, Wife and Family". 
• During the ceremony, present the children with a loving token like a necklace or bracelet to show them they play an important role in the new family. 
• Include the children in the engagement photo session and display not only couple photos during the reception, but photos showcasing the "new" family. 
• Have a kids table with goody bags and treats during the reception.

Until next time...WEDologize! 

(Photo credit: Rush Photography & Videography | repost from 12/16/12)

The First Touch Before The Ceremony

Many modern, non-traditional couples are having a "First Look" before the wedding ceremony.  This is when the couple decides to see one another a few hours for the wedding and the photographer is there to capture the memorable scene.  Then it allows for the couple, their wedding party and family to take pictures prior to the ceremony so they all can enjoy the cocktail hour.  But what can a more traditional couple do?

The "First Touch" is a spin on the First Look.  This must be strategically planned because the premise behind the touch is not to see one another, but to have a brief conversation and/or say a prayer together before the ceremony.  With careful planning of the wedding coordinator, photographer and a door or wall to separate the couple, the moment can be even more meaningful because the element of surprise will still exist when the ceremony begins.

Until next time...WEDologize!

(photo credit - my iPhone)

Ceremony Decor Uses at the Reception

The ceremony aisle is the pathway that leads to your "I Do's".  I feel that adding some type of decor to the aisle is important, but also depends on the budget and venue policy.  But I'm always conscious about using whatever decor you bring to the wedding ceremony at the reception in some format.  There is no need for money to go to waste.

Check out these simple ceremony decor ideas below and how they can be used during the reception:

Small cluster of roses tied with a bright ribbon attached to the ceremony chairs.
These roses can easily be placed in a small vase of water for cocktail table decor.

Pew clips of beautiful ivory roses can double as
decor around the cake table during the reception

Pomanders hanging from the ceremony chairs can become
the backdrop to a dessert table during the reception

Vintage lanterns placed down the ceremony aisle
can be added to the reception guest table centerpieces

Chair bouquets of calla lilies and orchids can be added to the
back of the chairs at the reception head table or sweetheart table

Until next time...WEDologize!

(photo credits - Ven Sherrod Photography; Rush Photography and Videography Productions)

Planning For An Outdoor Ceremony

I have planned numerous outdoor ceremonies and receptions during my career, and for 2014 the DE Team is spending a lot of time outdoors with our couples.  When considering an outdoor ceremony and/or reception, their are some major things to take into consideration...outside of having a Plan B.  Check out the list below:

• How many people can the outdoor ceremony and/or reception accommodate?
• What time of day will the ceremony be held?  The reception?  Asking these questions will determine if you need specialty lighting.
• What kind of foods will be held at the reception and how will they be served? Buffet-style?  Plated?
• What types of flowers and decor will enhance the "space".  Many flowers can't hold up well in direct sunlight, so select hardy flowers.
• Make sure your photographer knows the ceremony and/or reception will be outdoors.  He or she may need specific equipment to make sure the photographs come out correctly.
• What is the venues back-up plan in the event of rain?
• Will the lawn be treated for pesky bugs and mosquitoes?

Until next time...WEDologize!

(photo credits: www.vsphoto.com | repost from 7/30/12)

Immediately After The I Do's

After the "I Do's" are done and you have recessed out of the ceremony, consider taking a private moment away from the wedding party, parents and guests to reflect on what just happened.   YOU JUST GOT MARRIED!!!  Take the time to walk and talk about the emotions you just felt as you said your vows to one another and prayed with your family and friends.  You don't get a re-do of the wedding day and the day can go by soooooo fast...make sure you take a few moments to yourself as husband and wife.

Until next time...WEDologize!

(photo credit - www.vsphoto.com)

The Moments Before You Marry

That moment when you have time to yourself to reflect on your relationship with your soon-to-be husband...and you realize that the love that has brought you to this very moment is real...as you stand in your dream wedding gown holding a gorgeous bouquet...before you take your last walk as a single woman...you acknowledge that the trials and tribulations you have had with your fiancé don't outweigh the good. Today you say, "I Do"!

Congrats to all the lovely couples getting married this weekend!!!

Until next time...WEDologize!

(photo credit: www.vsphoto.com)

Capturing The Wedding Gown

Not only do you want a memorable wedding ceremony and reception, but you also want the hired photographers to capture all of the details from start to finish.  One of the most photographed items of wedding day is the wedding gown...you know that emotional and expensive garment you purchased to walk down the aisle to your soon to-be spouse  Below are some suggestions of moments you should consider having photographed.

Your gown and your bridesmaids gowns hanging

The amazing details

Your bridesmaids zipping or buttoning the wedding gown

Putting on your veil

The gown with your gorgeous bouquet

The wedding gown hanging by itself

The gown hanging on your personalized wedding hanger

Your mom or family member assisting you with the finishing touches

Immediately after you are completely dressed

Until next time...WEDologize!

(Photo credits - www.vsphoto.com; www.rushphotovideo.com; www.kellybaumanphotography.com)

Jumping The Broom

Jumping the Broom is an African-American tradition handed down from generation to generation to remind those present at the ceremony of a time when the vows of Africans were not legally sanctioned.  During slavery, the ancestors sought the legitimacy of marriage by jumping over the broom and into the bonds of domesticity.  This was a small ritual legally connecting the couple with the heritage of their home land and giving legitimacy, dignity and strength to their unions.  In the Ancestors eyes this union was now sanctioned by "the almighty."

  
Simple text that could be included in the wedding program or spoken at the end of the ceremony should you decide to include this tradition:

"(Insert bride and groom's name) will jump over the broom to symbolize sweeping away the old and welcoming the new.  Also, it pays homage to those who came before and paved the way.  Now Jump the Broom!"

  
Until next time...WEDologize!

(Photo credit - www.vsphoto.com; some content - http://www.african-weddings.com)

Finally Married...What Is Next?

So the special day that you have been planning for months has come to an end.  What is there to do now that you have had the wedding of your dreams and returned from your honeymoon?  Check out the to-do-list below for some helpful tips:

• Make sure all vendors have been paid.
• Open gifts and cards and keep records including the item (or cash amount), the guest's name and mailing address.
• Hand write personal thank you notes.
• Have your wedding gown cleaned and preserved.
• Have your wedding bouquet preserved.
• Check in with the photographer and videographer regarding review dates.
• Prepare and freeze top layer of your wedding cake to eat on your one year anniversary.  Curious how to package it properly, check out our blog on how to save the top tier.
• Begin working on changing your last name.  Need to know where to begin, check out this blog post on going from Miss to Mrs.

Until next time...WEDologize!

(photo credit - Image Makers Photography)
***repost from 10/17/12

Things Couples Tend To Forget

Wedding day is extremely hectic and fast pace...even with a wedding planner on your team :)  While planning your fabulous wedding day, there are some things that tend to get left out or go unnoticed until the day you say "I Do".  Check out the list below and add these simple tasks to your to-do list or to the to-do list of one of your wedding party members.

• Bring the marriage license to wedding rehearsal.  Do not wait until wedding day to reveal this VERY important document to the officiant.
• Make sure to put the final payment and gratuities in sealed envelopes with the vendors name noted.
• If your make-up artist is not staying with you the entire day, make sure to have a small handbag that includes lipstick and/or lip gloss, plus face or translucent powder.  
• Bring comfy shoes to change into during the dance portion of the wedding reception.  It's better to have them onsite and not need them than to have blisters on your feet.
• Assign someone the task of transporting your wedding gifts home.
• If you have not checked into your wedding night suite prior to the ceremony, make sure to bring your overnight bag to the reception.

Until next time...WEDologize!

(photo credit - Ven Sherrod Photography)