From Andrea the Bride

One of my brides - Andrea - had this to say about her special day!!! Thanks Andrea XOXOX!

Mary was an amazing organizer who helped ensure my wedding day would be as stress-free and beautiful as possible. I don't know what we would've done without her! For the day-of, Mary basically did EVERYTHING with regards to the transporting and setting up escort cards, programs, card box, reception decor, etc. She stayed in it for the long haul and at the end of the night she collected the 25+ vases (some quite large) from all the tables, packed them up AND brought them home for me! When we arrived in the door as newlyweds we were welcomed to the fragrant aroma of all the flowers from our reception! It was truly the greatest surprise EVER! Not only was Mary extremely reliable, but she was also my emotional rock. She took care of distributing tips to the vendors. She supported me during multiple meltdowns and helped me calm down and keep things in perspective. Her arsenal of emergency supplies came in handy as did her tips for photo-taking (ie gesturing for me to roll my shoulders back to stand up straight). I was lucky enough to have her at one of my bridal showers where she put her creative skills to good use, whipping up the prettiest bouquet of ribbons for use at my wedding (and she literally did it in a matter of minutes!). Mary's witty sense of humor, genuine kindness, and congenial, professional demeanor make her a joy to be around. Meanwhile, her efficient, detail-oriented and artistic approach ensures that things get done and done well ... Without the bride having to agonize over details on the most important day of her life. I cannot thank Mary enough for everything! She rocks!

Andrea Vlaminck

Itineraries

The 1-2 days before your wedding will probably be some of the most hectic; There is a way to help! Remember the old saying "if you fail to plan, you plan to fail?" Same thing goes with your wedding day!! It may not need as careful planning as other events [baby] but it can make or break how stressed you are on that day.

I follow this website / blog http://www.bwedd.com/cebride/cebnewsletter_21.asp

She is a great seasoned coordinator that has an eye for detail and how to help alleviate the stress with a itinerary.

There are a few things I would change to her itineraries:

1. Be broad. Let the person know what time they are supposed to be there and tentative times for things.

2. I would allow more time in between especially around pictures. There should be at least 30 - 45 minutes of extra time. You never know how pictures will go.

3. put directions in the packet if you do not have a limo or bus picking you up

4. put in rehearsal items

5. try to get them out before the rehearsal dinner

Wedding Party Gifting Part Deux

Gifting your groomsmen tends to be a little more difficult! There seems to be less that the men need for the day and less that they seem to like! There a
re a few things in that you can do for your men that prove to be both useful and liked. First stop, The Knot:

Every man needs a Handy tool: this multi-tool can help you and your groomsmen in a cinch! it also comes in various styles, you can engrave it, and comes with case! As you progress in life, there is more of a need to become handy and this is just the remedy for starters!

Our Friends will be drinking all the beer!! Well in this case, the liquor. This isn't your typical flask! The round shape and the engraving makes this flask a unique gift to give to your men.

Not so much for drinking or planning a destination wedding? These weekender bags

will help your men arrive in style! These are perfect for the mini getaway and will fit all their essentials for the big day; remind them to put the suit in a hanging bag!

The next set of gifts are for both your men and women as well as some that have a hidden punch to their awesomeness!

Many weddings host beer and wine, so what better than to remember what glass is yours than by having your name engraved? I also love seeing coordinating wear at the head table. Personally, I like to separate them from my guests, as a recognition that these people have helped me through so much that I knew they would give me the love and support we needed for the big day.

More of wine drinkers? Still have you covered with these stemless wine glasses. You don't have to add all the extra to it; Just names in a nice SCRIPT will do!

Lastly, I love gifts that keep giving! Why not give to your wedding party as you make a donation? TOMS shoes is a great example!!! Not only are these shoes comfortable but they keep giving!

For every pair of TOMS you buy, you are giving a pair of shoes to a child in need! They have shoes for men, women, and children! My favorite for the men are the white perforated leather TOMS.

For the ladies I like the Petal Grosgrain Classics, The Ivory Grosgrain Wedges, and if you want to get a little funky, Bridal White Glitter Classics.

Are you planning on having the sun show up? TOMS still has you covered! They also do sight for sight! Buy a pair of their sunglasses and they will give sight to a person in need.

As I said, it is tougher to pick out gifts for the guys. Hence the lack of ideas. So any of you avid readers out there have ideas for me, please let me know and I will add another blog.

XOXOX

Rock Out!