A Regal Affair

The truth about ... Wedding Dresses

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Ramirez-Jasiczek) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 13:00:00 +0000

Last week was bridal fashion week in New York. I couldn't get enough of the tweets, twitpics and blog posts. As always, I was not disappointed. I WILL be there next year. All the gorgeous designs reminded me of something and it's a secret, especially if you are newly engaged and in search of THE dress for your wedding day.

What is this secret? The wedding dress industry is wicked mean. If you are a gorgeous size 6 in street clothes, you might and I say MIGHT, wear a size 8, but probably better fitted into a size 10. WHAT!? you ask. I know! It's wicked mean isn't it? Of any demographic to mess with, a bride. If you are a plus size bride, then be aware there is usually a plus size fee. If there is one thing I could fix in the wedding industry, it would probably be the sizing of wedding dresses.

How do you handle it? One of the first tips I tell my clients and frankly anyone I know who is engaged to be married: make your first dress shopping trip in a REAL bridal salon. Here in San Antonio you have your choice of one of my favorites: Julian Gold There is also The Bridal Salon of San Antonio.

Be sure and make an appointment, have an open mind, these gals know how to fit Don't be afraid to ask all the questions you may have. Be aware almost all brides need alterations. Only once in my long career of wedding planning did I have a bride wear a dress as is. Lastly, once you have visited the upscale salon with impeccable customer service, you will be prepared to visit those a store such as David's Bridal or Alfred Angelo and the shock of not fitting into a 6 won't blow the mind.

Good luck and happy planning!

A Slipcover for your Wedding Album

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Ramirez-Jasiczek) — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 14:00:00 +0000

I have discovered a very cool product: ChrysQ Luxe Slipcovers These are beautiful slipcovers for your wedding photo album. What a great way to display, carry and store your precious memories. I've seen some beautiful albums, but in the end, they just kind of sit there, either on the bookcase or coffee table. What a stylish statement, using a ChrysQ Luxe Slipcover.

ChrysQ is designed and custom manufactured by Christina Quintanilla, wife of Ben Quntanilla (a wonderful wedding photographer). As Christina describes, BenQ needed a way to display his incredible work in a manner which reflected his brand. They designed a very luxurious line of wedding album slipcovers which are just to die for. Christina has a background in fashion design and a passion for accessories, mainly handbags (my kind of gal). Her abilities in design in allow to please all personalities and styles: rockstar leather look, vintage lacy, or fiery red hot metallic. (I want fiery red hot metallic)

There are two lines available and many swatches and customization options available. The Deluxe line for this Fall is available for order until December 31, 2009. The Deluxe line changes every season (3 months) to keep up with current fashion.

The Standard Line is available year round. You can find more pictures and swatches online.

These slipcovers are available for albums as small as 4x4 and up to and larger than 16x12. Each one is custom made per the client specification. The suggested MSRP ranges from $50 - $400 and higher depending on customization. Christina's brilliance does not stop with album slipcovers. She also has iphone and laptop covers AND has designed handbags too. I am just in love with ChrysQ. Photo album slipcovers are available through your photographer, so have them give Christina a call asap. What a great Christmas gift for you family when you gift them their parent album, make sure it was wrapped in luxury, a ChrysQ Luxe Slipcover.

last two photographs courtesy of Grant Isaac Studio

Make a Statement at your Wedding

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Ramirez-Jasiczek) — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 04:23:00 +0000

Styled by Jordan Payne Events, photo by F8 Studio

I know what you're thinking, that is a lovely centerpiece. YES, it is! I originally was going to talk about hiring a florist / designer with some vision, but in the end I know what makes beautiful photographs (and it isn't just in the eye of the photographer)

While opulent centerpieces, luscious linens and walls washed in colored lighting make for beautiful pictures, what really makes a photographer happy is photographing happy brides and grooms. When the stress of wedding planning shows on your face, no amount of decor and wedding bling will make your pictures look great. When the bride and groom are enjoying themselves, so will everyone else. If something went awry and the centerpiece or cake is off a little, don't obsess: it will show up in the pictures. Besides, you just married the man of your dreams.

When the love the is there, it shines through.

Texas Wedding Photography - Tanya + Cesar Perez

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Ramirez-Jasiczek) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 15:46:00 +0000

Today's Texas photography features Tanya and Cesar Perez of Perez Photography. based out of the Dallas-Forth Area. Tanya and Cesar love coming to San Antonio for weddings. They have such great personalities and such a fun couple to work with. Be sure and visit their blog and follow them on twitter.

Perez Photography

15635 Quorum Drive

Addison, Texas 75001

469.877.4725

info {at} perezweddings {dot} com

How did Perez Photography come to be?
We both always had an interest in photography and took courses in high school then a few in college and loved it. I'm not going to lie and say that we dreamed about being photographers as kids or what not. But we have always both been creative and photography allows us to express that creativity. Cesar started Perez Photography and Tanya came along a couple of years later.

How would you describe your style?
We would define our style as timeless and classic with a little bit of a modern edge. We love simplicity in everything, we think simple is beautiful!

What is your favorite aspect of the job?
Our hands down favorite thing about our job is the people we get to meet and make friends with along the way. It's definitely really interesting how as photographers we get to meet so many REALLY fascinating people... both vendors and clients.

How many people shoot for Perez Photography?
Two at the moment (Just us), we are training a third. He is currently our studio assistant and helps with editing and all of the back-end stuff. He rocks our socks.

What is the starting investment for a wedding?

Starting investment is $3500

Favorite part of the wedding day?
Tanya's favorite part is the getting ready shots, the anticipation, first dance, all of the emotions running high and all of the details. Cesar's favorite part is definitely the fun receptions, he loves when people just let loose and have a good time.

Greatest length to get the perfect shot?
Walking through Sewer water. Enough said! :)

jennifer says: now that's what I call dedication!

Anything else we should know about Perez Photography?
We love Sprinkles, love to travel, and are pretty laid back.

Childhood Ambition?
Tanya wanted to be a singer/dancer ... doesn't everyone? Cesar wanted to be a famous painter.

Dream Vacation?
Greeeeece! Ahhhh, one day!

Favorite animal at the zoo?
The Gorilla!

jennifer says: I see a great Halloween prank in the works...hmmm, involving a gorilla

Can't live without?
Our I-Phones, that’s totally lame we know, but we don't know what we did before we had them. But truly we couldn't live without the support of the people around us.

Hidden talent?
Cesar can draw really well! Tanya is really good at remembering numbers in general, (Phone numbers, license plate numbers, etc) it's really weird.
jennifer says: wow, me too, I am freakishly good with numbers

Favorite quote?
One of them is "If you'll not settle for anything less than your best, you will be amazed at what you can accomplish in your lives" by Vince Lombardi

jennifer says: I love a good sports quote

Best compliment ever received?
The best compliment that we have ever received is being hired to shoot other wedding photographers weddings. It's crazy nerve wracking but so flattering all at the same time.

If you weren't a photographer, what would you be?
Tanya would probably be a teacher; Cesar would probably be a graphic designer

Describe your perfect day?
Just spending time with all of our families together, and having them all in one place at the same time. We have family that lives all over so that's hard to do. That would be our perfect day.

Does your wedding planner have a back up?

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Ramirez-Jasiczek) — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 15:30:00 +0000

We all agree hiring a wedding planner can ease a lot of stress, especially the weekend of you wedding. What happens when something happens to your wedding planner? There have been instances where colleagues have had a sudden death in the family, a major accident or come down with a major illness. Does the vendor's contract cover such instances?

I've personally not been able to attend to two of my weddings. Once in 2005, I had a death in my family, so sudden and shocking, it was painful, but I would have been able to work; however, the funeral for my young family member was on Saturday. At the time, I had a very large team and we no had problem staffing. More importantly, they were fully aware of how I run an event and did so in a manner that the bride expressed she did not even notice my absence.

My second wedding ever missed was this year. I had the joy of planning the wedding of two sisters. These were large extravagant events. In 2009, we are considered a "boutique" planning firm (translation - it's just me and we take very few weddings). I've enjoyed the change in my business practice to do less events and leave the wedding planning world domination to others. It suits my personal lifestyle and allows me to give even more attention to my full service clients. So when my personal dilemma prevented me from attending the second wedding of the Patel family, I was worried. I was worried, wondering if my colleagues who were helping me would deliver in the manner I do: I am all over the place, I don't freak out - at all, I am cool as a cucumber and nothing bothers me. Large events for 600 people are not stress free nor are they snafu free. My son had surgery the Wednesday before the big wedding and I really thought I would leave the hospital and just check on everyone, as set up began in the ball room on Thursday, then again Saturday. It was a big deal and I didn't leave the hospital for days until he was discharged. My friends plus their staff did a stellar job. The family was very happy. They even came to the hospital to express it in person. I was so touched.

So how is it I was successful the second time around without large in house staffing? Bottom line: I've made nice with my competitors. Of course not all of them, as you work in the industry, you learn of certain business practices; some just don't want to like you, any number of reasons to be friends or not to be friends. Some years ago, a few of us cordial planners agreed to be each other's back up in the event of an emergency. We also agreed to a certain rate so as not to break the bank. In this instance I had to activate the wedding planner phone tree and use everyone available.

So, does your wedding vendor play nice with others to call upon them in an event of an emergency?

If you are a wedding professional interested in discussing a back up plan further, please join me as I moderate a WEDCHAT on Tuesday, September 29th at 8pm E.S.T.

Texas Wedding Photography - Wendi Poole

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Ramirez-Jasiczek) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 22:16:00 +0000

Today's Texas Wedding Photographer feature is of Wendi Poole of Thompson Poole. The talent in Texas is amazing. Wendi considers Austin and San Antonio her wedding home base, but recently has expanded into the Houston market. Be sure and visit the Thompson Poole website and blog

You can reach Thompson Poole by calling

Denise Cornell, Owner / Client Relations 512.484.1523

Wendi Poole, Owner / Photographer

Follow them on twitter:

@thompsonpoole (Denise)

@wendipoole (Wendi)

Email: denise {at} thompsonpoole {dot} com

I love your company name, Thomspon Poole, how did it come to be?
Thompson is my maiden name and Poole is my married name.

I know this is cliche, but how would you describe your style?
Storytelling. I am a working photojournalist and I photograph weddings like I do any other editorial assignment; I tell the story of the event.

What is your favorite aspect of the job?
Meeting people and watching families come together. I love knowing that the photos I take have meaning and will be cherished and shared for generations to come.

How many people shoot for Thompson Poole?
I am always the lead photographer. We also have a pool of working photojournalists that we use as second shooters.

What is the starting investment for a wedding?
Wedding coverage starts at $4500

Favorite part of the wedding day?
Oh, this is hard. I love it when the bride and groom first see each other. I also like it when the couple leaves the reception and everyone is saying goodbye. And, Dad’s first dance with the bride is always awesome; the way he looks at his daughter is priceless. I could go on and on.

Greatest length to get the perfect shot?
I've been in cherry pickers, waist deep in water and even in the operating room for an open heart surgery -- but not at weddings! For weddings I'll climb, crawl and squeeze into weird places to get that perfect shot...but usually without anyone, especially the bride and groom, seeing or hearing a thing. I love it when a bride declares, 'How did you get that shot? I didn't even know you were there!'

Anything else we should know about Thompson Poole?
I like sweets and baked goods and if you get me talking about food you might regret it.
Jennifer says: I hear you are quite the baker, I accept baked goods any day of the week.

Childhood Ambition?
I grew up in Pensacola, FL, home of the amazing Blue Angels. So first I wanted to be a navy pilot then an astronaut, but getting eye glasses in high school dashed any hopes of being a military pilot. I then turned my focus to journalism and soon learned that I write like I talk -- ramble, ramble, using a thousand words to describe a moment that could have been captured in just a few. At the urging of my photographer father I picked up a camera and discovered I could capture those same moments in a heartbeat -- in my pictures. I knew immediately I had found my calling and off to Photojournalism school I went. As they say, the rest is history.

Dream Vacation? I love to travel and explore new places. Some of my top destinations are: England, repeat my honeymoon trip to Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, the Bahamas.

Favorite animal at the zoo? I LOVE Penguins!

Can't live without? God, candy, my Husband

Hidden talent? I am a mean pinball player. I bet I could take on Tommy.

Best compliment ever received? This note to one of our brides from her brother made me blush. “THOSE ARE THE BEST WEDDING PICTURES I'VE EVER SEEN!!!! Do you know if Thompson Poole has a time machine so I can have them do my wedding five years ago???”

If you weren't a photographer, what would you be? Let’s see, a doctor, a pilot, a pastry chef. I think that covers it for this week. Check back next week for an update.

Describe your perfect day? Any day I can smile when I wake up and when I go to sleep. It also helps if chocolate and cake are involved.

A Planner's response to Plan a DIY Wedding Using Social Media

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Ramirez-Jasiczek) — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 12:00:00 +0000

I read a great little article written by groom Josh Catone, an editor over at Mashable. He discusses using Social Media to plan his own nuptials slated for July 2010. I loved this little article. I don't like the bad word DIY, which Marcy Blum calls Do It Without Us, it leaves a bad taste in this planner's mouth.

The bottom line? YES, you can plan your wedding using social media. And NO, technology can't help you with everything. As a confessed social media junkie and professional planner, I use social media to plan weddings. New resources are readily available and at my fingertips. If you tweet it, they will come. If I need a great designer for custom invites all I do is ask and within minutes, I have 10-20 choices. I like the comfort of working with my tried and true San Antonio wedding professionals, but every year we must bring it to another level, find the next best thing, bring a new trend. One thing i have learned from social media is that wedding professionals can make it happen anywhere and get it to you (and we love to travel for your wedding). That awesome photographer from Dallas? Sure, I can get him here for your San Antonio wedding.

These easiest of Social Media resources to use:
Blogs: aaah, blogs, also known as eye candy. This is mecca of social media for your wedding inspiration. Detailed pictures, how-to, you name it, it is out there on a blog. Some great blogs to start if you haven' already discovered: Southern Weddings Magazine, The Bride's Cafe, Style Me Pretty, and DIY Bride. (Janie's Bride Cafe has a lovely DIY project, Wedding Cake Chandelier this week)

With all the technology at your fingertips such as my favorite iphone app: evernote, wedding website, twitter, the dreaded Facebook invitation, and many more, why do you need a planner? Well let me throw a few things out there:

Your iphone isn't going to tell your fly is open right before you walk down the aisle with your best man. Your best man might, but if he is twitpic'ing your wedding, he'll probably miss it.
All those great reviews on that wedding website (wedding vendors - you know what I speak of) didn't tell you that those glowing reviews were former brides now in the wedding business and really have NO business in the wedding business (say that three times fast)
Does your twitter account help smooth out the rough patches during the reception when you've gone a little long taking your post ceremony photos?

I'm being funny, but as planners we do much more than connect vendor A with Client B. We work with you every step of the way, listening to everything you have said, burning it to memory so that when that emergency does arise, we handle it with grace and you never ever have to know about it, because it didn't change one thing in your perfect day. We do so much more, but I don't want to put you to sleep.

I love social media. It has changed the way I do business. It has made my work so much easier and I love my iphone. I couldn't live without, much like my crackberry, uh I mean blackberry in the years before.

Get out there and socialize. There are 100's of us professionals out there, with our Facebook fan pages, tweets and blogs. Thank you for reading mine.

Lastly, because we believe in love, we wish Josh Catone and his betrothed a stress free wedding planning experience and many Many MANY years of married bliss. Best of luck and hit me up on twitter if you have a questions (on weddings).

Texas Wedding Photography - Ashley Palmero

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Ramirez-Jasiczek) — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 13:00:00 +0000

Today we feature an up and coming wedding photographer based in San Antonio. One of the great things about our industry is the new talent. As a season event professional, one of the most important aspects of my work is finding the next best thing. Folks, simply stated, Ashley Palmero of Picture Me Married is our next best thing in San Antonio. We've had the privilege or working with a lot of great photographers and I like to bring them in from other cities. I am swooning over Ashley and her work. (I LOVE her business name)

I am often asked what are some key things to consider when signing with a photographer? My answer is always the same: obviously the work but more importantly, is the photographer easy going enough for you to relax and does he/she play well with others. As a client, you will be pleased with Ashley's work. As a wedding professional, you will be happy to collaborate with her to make the magic happen.

Ashley's work can be seen on her website. Be sure to visit her blog. Follow her on twitter.
Email: ashley {at} picturememarried {dot} com
Phone: 210.373.6856
Ashley is passport ready; available for destination weddings

How did Picture Me Married Photography come to be?
I have always loved weddings, I'm definitely one of those girls that has been "dreaming" about my wedding since I was 12 but I had never even considered shooting them because it seemed so scary! One day I told my husband that I just needed to try it once. So just a week later I was able to shoot a wedding with another photographer and fell in love! It was a perfect fit - I love weddings and I love photography!

How would you describe your style?
My style is natural and fun. I want my brides to look at their photos and feel as though they are re-living their wedding day!

What is your favorite aspect of the job?
I have so many! This job is amazing! As a wedding photographer you are able to be a part of the most exciting day of someone's life!

How many people shoot for Picture Me Married Photography?
I am the only lead photographer for Picture Me Married. I have a group of professional photographers that I use as my 2nd shooter.

What is the starting investment for a wedding?
$1600 which includes wedding day coverage from 2 photographers and an engagement session!

Favorite part of the wedding day?
I love photographing the "getting ready" shots but my absolute favorite is tied between the speeches and the father-daughter dance, I usually shed a tear or two behind the camera! Don't worry, I keep shooting!

Greatest length to get the perfect shot?
Something about having my camera in hand makes me feel quite invincible - I will usually climb on or balance myself on anything I can!
Jennifer chuckles and says: I too feel quite invincible on the wedding day. I feel like I can make anything happen.

Childhood Ambition?
To be a photographer or Miss America.... but I can't sing, dance or even speak on a stage so I guess Miss America just wasn't in the cards! ;)

Dream Vacation?
Traveling around the world with my husband and my camera!

Last time you laughed until it hurt?
About 30 minutes ago! My crazy husband, Nan, keeps me laughing everyday!

Jennifer says: Nan is awesome! You're so lucky! You two will conquer the world.

Favorite animal at the zoo?
Elephants! They're so amazingly huge - I love them!

Can't live without?
My camera, of course! Moments are fleeting, I take so much pleasure in capturing them!

Hidden talent?
I can cross one eye and leave the other straight. It's quite gross - I will spare you the picture! ;)

Jennifer: LOL, I must see this super human trick, maybe we should call David Letterman?

Favorite quote?
Never look down on anybody unless you're helping him up. ~Jesse Jackson

Best compliment ever received?
Other than being featured on this blog? I'd have to say when a bride tells me that not only is she in love with her photos but she loved having me at her wedding. I love my brides and want them to enjoy their day to the fullest but as most brides know, your wedding day flies by and it's hard to even remember who you saw. For a bride to say she loved having me there means a lot.

If you weren't a photographer, what would you be?
Miss America? No, I honestly don't know what I'd be doing. I've worked in Investments and enjoyed it but this is my life!

Describe your perfect day?
Going for a morning walk on the beach with my dog, Clunkers. Lunch and shopping with my girlfriends and spending the evening with my husband. I'm pretty easy to please!

Succulents in your wedding

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Ramirez-Jasiczek) — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 01:52:00 +0000

Here is an idea keep a piece of your bouquet or boutonniere living on well beyond your wedding day. I love succulents for a bridal bouquet, wedding reception centerpieces and boutonnieres. Did you know you can take some of these succulents and re-pot them? It takes some work and not all will survive. It will also depend on the construction of the bouquet. I see many designers use hot glue on some succulents to keep it in there.

One of the many succulents from the groom's boutonniere transplanted and growing.

The designer used a lot of hot glue, so only one succulent from the bouquet survived. These can be cut and transplanted as it grows.

Texas Wedding Photography - Jeremy Gilliam

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Ramirez-Jasiczek) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 16:00:00 +0000

You know what they say, everything is bigger and better in Texas. I believe it. We have gorgeous events here in Texas and it still surprises me when eventeurs bring in talent from other states. Mind you, I love all my event brethren, but I want to show you some of the best Texas has to offer. This week we are featuring photography. Take a look at the bride below: only in Texas can you find such beautiful blue bonnet fields.

Our first feature is on Jeremy Gilliam, based out of Dallas-FortWorth area, available to travel world wide. You can visit his website and more awesome photos here. You can follow him on twitter here. He specializes in Awesome as proven below.
Email: studio @ jeremygilliam dot com
Phone: 972.272.2780

How did Jeremy Gilliam Photography come to be?
Someone gave me a 35mm Konica film camera about 12 years ago and I started taking photos casually, as a hobby. I became fascinated with the medium and began learning what photography is all about. As I traveled I would take photos of buildings and landscapes, but I was always drawn to take photos of people to tell a story or capture emotion. Then about six years ago I shot a wedding for a friend who couldn't afford a photographer and that inspired me to want to start my own business. We had just moved to Dallas where we didn't know anyone. Starting from nothing was difficult, but my wonderful wife Sarah was so supportive and within my first year I shot over 25 weddings and we have just grown from there.

How would you describe your style?
Inspired by light. It’s photojournalism with a fashion edge and a touch of cinematic drama.

What is your favorite aspect of the job?
Sharing in and documenting one of the happiest days of my clients' lives. There is so much emotion, stress, drama, joy, and not to mention the fashion and the details that are unique to each wedding. I know that they will look at these photos forever and it such an honor to participate in such an event.

How many people shoot for Jeremy Gilliam Photography?

I am the primary photographer for Jeremy Gilliam Weddings. I also use a select few professionals as second photographers.

What is the starting investment for a wedding?

Full wedding coverage starts at $3,600. Which includes includes wedding coverage by myself and another professional photographer, the reprint rights to the digital negatives, and a fun engagement session.

Anything else we should know about Jeremy Gilliam Photography?

We specialize in awesome.

Childhood Ambition?
To be an astronaut. How cool would it be to be in space? I still hope that some private company makes it possible to travel to space, sign me up!

Dream Vacation?
Traveling through Europe with my wife, visiting castles during the day and breweries at night. Staying at a bed and breakfast on the Amalfi coast, getting a couple's massage while looking out on the Mediterranean Sea. Yeah, that would be nice.

Last time you laughed until it hurt?

Don't think less of me, in the movie: "The Hangover"

Favorite part of the wedding day?

I always love when the bride walks down the aisle for the first time. There is so much emotion at that moment, the groom is looking at her and her father is giving away his baby.

Your target wedding client?
Clients who are fun, creative people that like to have a good time. Since I am passionate about photography, I love it when my clients are excited to collaborate with me to create artistic memories of their wedding day.

Favorite animal at the zoo?
My dog Caesar. He belongs in a zoo, because he is crazy.

Can't live without?
My Xbox, you know what they say about all work and no play...

Hidden talent?
Swing dancing. If you play Benny Goodman or Big Bad Voodoo Daddy at your wedding, I may have to put my camera down for a few minutes and cut a rug.

Guilty pleasure?
The Twilight series...Did I say that out loud?
Jennifer says: yes, you did!

Best compliment ever received?
One of my first clients said that every time she looked at her album, the photos made her cry. That's my highest goal at a wedding, to tell the story in photos in such a way that it brings back memories and emotions of the day.

If you weren't a photographer, what would you be?

A travel writer. I can't write, but I do love to travel, so I'm halfway there. But seriously, I would probably be a youth speaker. My faith means a lot to me and I love to encourage young people to follow their dreams.

Describe your perfect day?
Waking up with coffee and pancakes. Making some pretty photos with tasty light. I am all about watching movies, so catching a movie with Sarah and some friends.

Thank you Jeremy, I loved learning more about you.
-jennifer

Wedding Photographer Spotlight

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Ramirez-Jasiczek) — Sat, 19 Sep 2009 18:29:00 +0000

Next week's blog posts will be featuring photographers from Texas. You know what they say, everything IS bigger and better in Texas. While I think wedding planners are the most important wedding vendor, I know photographers truly own the top slot. In the end, down the line, your photographs are your keepsakes, memories, a window into the moment that was your magical wedding day.

Keep an eye out for our next feature of Jeremy Gilliam based out Dallas serving Texas brides. Simply said, he is awesome. If you have a photographer or other vendor you want to learn about, drop us a line.

True Blood Inspired Wedding - Red Cocktails

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Ramirez-Jasiczek) — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 11:16:00 +0000

A True Blood wedding reception requires skills from an experienced caterer. A quick shout out to my favorite caterer in San Antonio: Anne Marie's Catering. I would trust them with any event, including one with vampire nuptials. Today's post delves into cocktails. First off, let's focus on the living guests. For starters, I would serve a red cocktail, like a cosmo in a blood rimmed martini glass. Isn't this just the best idea? I will have to use this for a Halloween party.

source: Hostess with the Mostess

The blood rim is made from the same kind of mixture as you use to make hard candy. It’s actually pretty easy, but you will need a candy thermometer (which you can find at most grocery stores).

Ingredients:
1 c. Sugar
1/2 c. Karo Syrup
1/2 c. Water
Red Food Coloring
Cinnamon (optional)

Directions:
Combine sugar, syrup and water. Cook without stirring to hard crack stage – which is 300 degrees F. Add food coloring. (Optional: Cinnamon may be added for flavor.)

Turn off heat. While the mixture is still hot, dunk the top of the cocktail glass into the mixture to create the red rim. If you need to do several glasses, keep the mixture hot so it lasts longer (instead of turning heat off, just reduce slightly).You can go anywhere from just along the very tip of the rim to part way down the glass – whichever you prefer. Flip the glass right side up to cool. The thick consistency of the mixture will cause “drips” as it hardens on the glass!

You can serve red champagne for the toast. There are few choices for red sparkling wine. The are few available, but lucky you Central Market carries a popular Australian wine: Black Chook. It averages around $15 per bottle. Some domestic choices: Schug Rouge de Noirs (around $24), a pinot noir from the Carneros region of Napa.

source: Austin360.com

And of course, for the vampire guests, a must have is True Blood. O positive is widely popular, but I highly recommend having other blood types available, less the vamps turn to humans for their refreshments. Make sure the caterer has a microwave on site, vampires like their True Blood warm, like real human blood.

True Blood Wedding - the Red reception

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Ramirez-Jasiczek) — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 01:16:00 +0000

I had no idea there would be a wedding (albeit a crazy maenad - devil in the form of a steer wedding) in the season finale of True Blood. I just chuckle at our timing of our True Blood inspired wedding posts. Be sure to check out my colleagues blogs (links below) for their inspiring weddings.

Today's True Blood wedding post is all about the RED eye candy. Remember this location from yesterday's post? Here are those beautiful doors, with a lighting pattern on them and the ceiling. Red lighting bathing the entire area. The balls are made with carnations. I, like Carrie, from Sex and the City love carnations especially for weddings. I love them when they are just carnations and one color otherwise it looks like it costs: inexpensive. The below these large floral balls made up of red carnations look luscious. On the sides of the stairs are red glass altar candles in pairs of two.

Here is a close up of those rose covered doors. LOVE IT! with vine lighting pattern.

Imagine Sookie Stackhouse wearing the black Sheri Hill gown from yesterday's post mingling among her guest in this southern style opulent venue. Tables swathed in a red crinkle linen with red beaded and embroidered over lay. Adding in clusters of red votives, beautiful glassware with hints of red finished off round centerpiece comprised of red roses, with a little bling. Black chiavari chairs, white chair pads and red feathered boas capping off the chairs.

For any event, lighting is the best investment. This venue was swathed in red lighting with a vine pattern. Look for a post soon on lighting and how it makes your event from a nice event to an awesome event.

Wednesday's post: Food and the True Blood wedding cake

Be sure to visit my other True Blood colleagues:
Sasha Souza
Bella Signature Design
Masterpiece Weddings
It's a Jamie Thing

True Blood Inspired wedding

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Ramirez-Jasiczek) — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 00:28:00 +0000

photo credit: http://belladonnabelle.livejournal.com/
Welcome to a wedding inspired by True Blood. Tonight's finale on HBO will be watched by many and as planners, we take inspiration from many things, including TV. True Blood is no exception. There have been so many story lines and next year will be no different. I admit to not having read the books yet, but I can see the writing on the wall. Sookie will eventually fall in love with Eric. So my TrueBlood inspired wedding is for Sookie Stackhouse and Eric Northam (I know! no hate mail please)

I have the good fortune of using pieces from a previous wedding in my theme. Of course, the main color: RED.

First up: What will Sookie wear. I say a bride can wear whatever she wants. While Sookie is a country girl at heart, perhaps the relationship with Eric will make her a little more modern. Let's give her two options:
Or for her southern belle heritage with a twist, a red ball gown:

Or you think there is too much red, how hot would Sookie be in a black version:

I don't envision a church wedding for these two, so my venue is a lavish venue right here in Texas. How about the Corinthian in Houston, Texas. With red as our main color, we use inexpensive red carnations to make several balls to decorate the entrance. Take a close look at the doors. Yup, those doors are covered in roses.

Stay tuned tomorrow for some great design and decor tomorrow. You will see a tablescape, lighting and a close up of those beautiful doors. Also please visit my wedding professional friends also posting all week True Blood inspired wedding ideas all week long on their blog.

Sasha Souza
Bella Signature Design
Masterpiece Weddings
It's a Jamie Thing

JW Marriot San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Ramirez-Jasiczek) — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 15:30:00 +0000

As the general manager, Arthur Coulombe describes on the JW Marriot San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa construction blog: "We are building something amazing on the hillsides of north San Antonio and want you to be a part of it." Amazing doesn't begin to describe just how fabulous this new resort property will be.

Here you can read the latest newsletter from JW Marriot. In the September issue you can see details of the suites, designing of the hotel and a sneak peak of the High Velocity Sports Bar. The sports bar looks like it will be AWESOME. I personaly can't wait to book a suite. They are named after rivers in Texas. Here is pic of a suite. This photo was taken August 12th.

Aside from the luxury of the suites,and the overall beauty of the hotel, it's the meeting space that has us all a twitter. There will be over 140,000 square feet of meeting space. Plucked from the JW Marriot San Antonio website:

3 dedicated levels of space
2 ballrooms (40k sq ft & 21k sq ft)
40k sq ft exhibition hall
20,000 sq ft for 18 breakout rooms
and, wait for it: 3 outdoor venues

Nothing says beautiful Hill Country wedding like an gorgeous outdoor venue back with superior service pair with exquisite food. I can't wait to book an event at what will be the premier Hill Country event venue. No, really, I can't wait. I have a new million dollar wedding for 1000 persons looking for a venue and she doesn't want downtown. She's lucky, her date is next fall.

Here is another great thing about the JW Marriott San Antonio: they twitter! Check out the twitpics below from the general manager. I love reading his tweets and keeping up with updates.

The pic below is from a tweet on August 21st

And this twitpic is from a August 28th tweet (one the bar)

When you visit the website, you can see renderings of the hotel. The High Velocity Sports Bar looks amazing and I can't wait to visit there too. Other things equally important is the Golf, while understated for the purposes of events, it is the main staple because it is a golf resort. You know, the TPC San Antonio, what else can we say? Ahhh, there is a spa too. I could go on and on. Check out the website and check out their social media use. We love JW Marriot San Antonio is using social media. You can become their fan on facebook here.

Bottom line, eventuers we have a new option with the beauty of the hill country as a back drop.

photo credit: www.jwsanantonio.com and www.twitter.com/jwsanantonio

Wedding Placecards with a fruity twist

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Ramirez-Jasiczek) — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 02:42:00 +0000

I hear it all the time. I want MY wedding to be different. I try and try to be as creative as possible. So this afternoon when discussing an October wedding here in beautiful San Antonio, we finalized the colors: orange/corals + green, I came up with this delish little place card idea: use fresh fruit.

Just like fashion everything old can be new again. Let's not get hung up on it's been done before. Honey, It's ALL been done before. And you know what, it is going to be just fine. We came up with our idea organically and if you google hard enough, you will find any and everything. This great couple focuses on the marriage and consider the wedding as the vehicle to get there. So I just love Scott and Amy even more. Their wedding will be beautiful and unique and I can't wait to see these place cards in the lush River Garden of the Southwest School of Art and Craft

Custom Christian Louboutins

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Ramirez-Jasiczek) — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 00:07:00 +0000

Wow, Carlos Baez does amazing photography, and it helps when the clients are gorgeous and put in custom details. One of his recent brides had custom Christian Louboutins, we've had one before. I suspect he gets them much more frequently than we do here in Texas.

Louboutin's trademark red sole was replaced with a bridal blue. It is stunning and gorgeous. I could describe them, but you really just need to see them. I want to go to Miami just to visit them and say "Hello Gorgeous". I will try to get a picture from Carlos to post here, but in the mean time:

CLICK HERE!!

Oh, and let's not forget, we believe in love here at A Regal Affair, so congratulations to Blanco-Bowe on their marriage, we wish you many Many MANY years of happiness.

4/30/2009 Update: here is the photo I promised:

WOAI's Hotel Valencia Wedding Experience

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Ramirez-Jasiczek) — Sun, 15 Mar 2009 01:37:00 +0000

I am wrapping up a very chic wedding in Paris France tonight (it's about 8pm local Paris time). My husband emailed me the link to WOAI's Hotel Valencia Wedding Experience. I had heard about this and caught glimpses here and there, but haven't remembered to TIVO these segments. I was really pleased to hear my good friend and colleague is one of the potential photographers. David Sixt is definitely one of my favorite photographers here in San Antonio and was one of the first great wedding professionals I met when I began many years ago.

So my blog readers, I want you all to run out and vote for David Sixt. It is not many a bride who will have the luxury to work with David, Heather and Nancy and we can give this to her. Blake and Bethany, congratulations and we wish you well! We hope you get the best and our vote is for David Sixt.

Happy Anniversary :: to me!

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Ramirez-Jasiczek) — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 14:16:00 +0000

The business of weddings has brought me a lot of satisfaction over the years. I don't ever make wagers on how long this or that couple's marriage will last. One: it is in poor taste. Two: I believe in love.

I believe in love so much often times I sit here, full of love and just stare at him, my husband. I look around in our home and see our kids who are all the same and yet so different and who just bring us joy. There are moments that we are busy and just stop and look at each other and we tell each other I love you with just a look. (I know this is getting sappy) It is those moments, when a kid does something and we look at each other and just smile. It is the moments, in the craziness of every morning getting 5 ready for school when he stops and gives me my morning kiss... I have my hands in someones ponytail while he is trying to wrangle Diego into washing up and going to school (btw, Diego is tired everyday and doesn't want to go to school everyday) all the while yelling at the teenagers to get up for the 15th time.

I love being in the business of weddings, because I truly want my brides to have the long and lasting love I have been blessed with. When I see a young couple who remind me of us, you can bet I have bust out the tears at their wedding. Lucky me I am in the back of the church and I use waterproof mascara.

We have opposing schedules, I work during the day and he at night. We have 5 kids, so we are busy at any given time...but we make time and we show each other love. We don't have to schedule date night, we don't even know what that is. Our date night is everyday and we relish it. It is the small things that we do to show each other love and we show love in front of our children. When we watch a movie at home with the kids, we sit together - I so love that. When we eat dinner, I am always on his right, no matter where we are. There is the light touches, hand on my arm or mine on his as we walk by each other in the house, in the laundry room, the kitchen, in the yard, planting my four fruit trees. Anyway, before I get too sappy: Happy Anniversary.

Here are just few of my fave things about Jaz:

I love your arms, I always feel loved and safe in your arms. Thank you for putting them around me several times a day
I love that you are a great father with the patience of a Saint.
I love that you clean the kitchen. It's just not my thing and I KNOW how lucky I am. I will continue to cook whatever you want as long as you touch the raw chicken.
I love that you can fix all kinds of things - you have earned your man card (inside joke)
I love that you are so generous with my charitable projects. I know you didn't plan on marrying a bleeding heart social worker who wants to save everyone. I love that you instill these same values in our kids.
I love that you support my entrepreneurial spirit and all that comes with it.
I love that you listen to 80's music almost everyday.
I love that you are the ultimate Cowboys fan. They ARE America's team.
I love our babies...we've made beautiful babies.
I love that my family loves you and can rely on you. That when my parents call for help, they call us, not just me.
I love that we tag team the kids.
I love that you keep it real.
I love that you accept me for who I am :: the good and the bad, the quirks and the not so quirky.
I love that you show me love all the time.
I just love you.

our family portrait from Nov 2007. I just love the cooperation. This is typical us... I hope to post an update to this photo someday soon.

Back row: Jaz, Jennifer, Francisco, Alejandro

Front row: Isabel, Antonio and Diego (laying down, because, again, "he's tired")

Meet the Photographer :: Philip Thomas

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Ramirez-Jasiczek) — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Today begins a new series on the blog: "Meet the Wedding Vendor". Today's feature is one of San Antonio finest photographers, Philip Thomas. Philip's photography is just beautiful, personal and often breathtaking. On top of all that, Philip is so great to work with. When building your wedding entourage, synergy and teamwork are key to a successful event. Philip would be a great addition to your team. Thank you to Emilie Duncan for the great idea.

Business Name: Philip Thomas Photography
Name: Philip Thomas
Phone Number: 210-833-1168
Email: info {at} philipphotography {dot} com
Website: www.philipphotography.com
Blog: www.philipblog.com

How did Philip Thomas Photography come to be?
I've been shooting professionally since leaving college in 1991 starting a newspaper photographer in my home town in England. After spending ten years working on cruise ships in charge of nine other photographers, it was in 2002 that I met my best friend and wife, Marcie. After many visits between England and San Antonio Texas, we decided to tie the knot in 2006 and settle here in San Antonio. That's also when I started shooting weddings.

How would you describe your style?
I capture 'decisive' moments. A phrase made famous by the master photographer Henri Cartier-Bresson and this is what I try to emulate in my very pure documentary style. I shoot unobtrusively capturing the bride and grooms day from start to finish, reacting and anticipating moments. Absolutely love it!

What is your favorite aspect of the job?
Well, I have two favorite parts. Leaving the wedding feeling as part of their family and having the honor that they chose me to capture their day. Corny, but true.

How many people shoot for Philip Thomas Photography?
I have sometimes one or two assistants. Other than that, I don't outsource to anyone. I'm your photographer.

What is the starting investment for a wedding?
$2800 includes full coverage, an engagement or a bridal session and a gorgeous coffee table book hand crafted in Italy.

Anything else we should know about Philip Thomas Photography?
I've started to win awards for my photographs in international competitions with the WPJA, the Wedding Photojournalist Association. I shoot no more than 30 weddings a year. That may sound like allot to some folks, but it's certainly less than many photographers. I like to keep myself fresh by limiting how many weddings I shoot and careful of the burn out factor. I'm a real homebody. Even more so since our daughter Lily was born in May 2007. Yes, now I'm an expert diaper changer.

Childhood Ambition?
A documentary and television cameraman.

Dream Vacation?
To return to India and explore for a year. I was last there in 1995 traveling to many parts of the country but I ran out of time and had to return home.

Last time you laughed until it hurt?
I think the moment I missed my ship about 5 years ago.
Yes, and I didn't get fired for it. Even more funny or wait, is it embarrassing? Well, this is also the MOST embarrassing moment in my life. I was on the wrong ship when my ship left dock. Long story but I'll keep it short. We were in hurricane season, I met up with the other photo manager on his ship and moments later, because of the hurricane, the ships has to leave port in a hurry. So, I was stuck on the wrong ship for a few days. I got a wrap on the knuckles from my boss in Miami, bought my own flight tickets to rejoin the correct ship I was in charge of, and of-course, I was the laughing stock of approximately 1500 crew members. Add that to the ship that I was incorrectly sailing on, and that's oh, another 1500 crew members. Very funny now and also very embarrassing. Now I've told you that one, I'm going to shoot myself in the head.
So, not only do I laugh until it hurts telling that story, I'm sure many other folks enjoy that one too!

Philip - I laughed out loud at this one too - jennifer

Favorite part of the wedding day?
Actually, my favorite part is many parts. Every wedding has a certain structure to it, but for me, my favorite moments are the small nuances that happen between all these more structured parts. Emotion, light, shadow, lines and tones all play a part here.

Greatest length to get the perfect shot?
Often, it's just a fleeting moment, a look, the light and lots of patience. I've learned to not pursue moments, but let the moment pass if it's just not going to happen. Trusting oneself, relying on self-confidence, reacting and anticipating is the way that works best for me.

Favorite animal at the zoo?
We go to the zoo weekly. My daughters favorite is the lion. Naturally, this is my favorite too, especially when we're both mimicking the lion together.....grrrrrr.

Can't live without?
Oh dear, here's my nerd element coming out...My plasma TV. Actually, my wife and daughter.

Hidden talent?
I can draw and paint. I also love to cook.

Favorite quote?
Bill Cosby's "I don't know the key to success, but the key to failure is trying to please everybody."

Best compliment ever received?
At the end of a wedding and the couple mention that they hardly ever saw me and then letting them know I shot around a 1000 images. I've done what I set out to do in an unobtrusive fashion.

If you weren't a photographer, what would you be?
Probably another nerdy thing, a Apple computer tech of some sort.

Describe your perfect day?
Well, is this past or present tense? Past tense would be the day our daughter Lily was born. The perfect future day would be no telephones, no internet, no technology at all in fact, living with my wife in a shack somewhere in a small village along the Mediterranean coast. Drinking margaritas and reading a good book.

Philip: Thank you for sharing. I love the story about Lily!!
-jennifer

Tuesday Tip: Inspiration Boards

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Ramirez-Jasiczek) — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Ivory & Gold Spring Wedding.. - by Jillyann..Missin Sabre :( on Polyvore.com

Inspiration Boards: do you have a lot of ideas for your wedding and not know how to organize them? Do you have more than two colors schemes and can't decide which way to go? Don't worry, you aren't alone. Sometimes I have this problem in my everyday life. Take your pieces and put them together to help you create a cohesive look. There are several blogs out there who post inspiration boards weekly. This board was pulled from Polyvore. You can also use photoshop, publisher, even Paint. Show me your inspiration boards. {boutique} @ {regalaffair} dot {com}

Survey - we just need a minute!

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Ramirez-Jasiczek) — Mon, 16 Feb 2009 16:39:00 +0000

I promise, this will only take a minute of your time! If you wouldn’t mind, please click on the link below and answer 9 quick, easy questions about different design aspects of wedding vendor’s websites.

Wedding Vendor Website Survey

We won’t record anything about you other than what state or country you are from - we don’t even ask for your email address so no spam or anything like that.
You will likely see this link on lots of other blogs and sites - this survey is being shared all over the blog-o-sphere so please take the survey only once.

If you have additional comments on the subject, please feel free to email me with those and I will share them with the other wedding vendors who are participating! We can’t wait to hear what you have to say!

(If you are a wedding vendor and would like to participate, just copy this post to your blog and email the link to emilie {@} emilieduncan {.} com - she will send you the results once we have closed the survey in March)

Blogging Workshop for Wedding Professionals

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Ramirez-Jasiczek) — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 21:53:00 +0000

Blogging Bootcamp

You already know why you should blog. We'll show you how.

Presented by Liene Stevens of Blue Orchid Designs and The Smart Planner™

Who: Any wedding professional who wants to effectively leverage online
media to grow their business
When:July 15, 2009
Time: 9 am - 4 pm
Where: Winfield Little Studios, 21650 Milsa Dr., San Antonio, Texas 78258
Cost: $150 per person

Click here to Register

Since the launch of the Blue Orchid Blog in 2006, it has grown to include over 3000 unique daily visitors and is partially to credit for the launch of two new Blue Orchid Designs offices on the East Coast. In the Blogging Bootcamp, Liene will share specific strategies and techniques she has personally used to grow the Blue Orchid Designs blog to where it is today.

This workshop is open to all wedding professionals, not just wedding planners. Space is limited and will be filled on a first come, first served basis so reserve your spot now! Laptops are optional and lunch will be provided.

Topics covered will include:
*How to discover and leverage your blogging voice
*How to maximize your blogging ROI
*How to develop killer content - consistently
*How to set short term and long term goals for your blog
*How to effectively analyze your stats and blog traffic
*How to increase your readership and keep them coming back for more
*Specific strategies and techniques to use your blog to improve your main website's SEO or "findability" on Google
*How to promote your brand through your blog's design and content
*Maintaining professional boundaries while still being personable
*And more!

The Blogging Bootcamp will not be a class on blogging philosophy. You already know that blogging is a good idea. We'll be showing you how to do it so that it is worth your time. No topic will be off the table, and any questions you may have will be fair game.

With prior experience in planning events in the non-profit, corporate and private sectors, Liene Stevens opened Blue Orchid Designs, an event design and planning firm specializing in luxury weddings. One of Arizona's fastest growing wedding planning companies, they have expanded nationally to include the New York City and Washington DC bridal markets. Liene's expertise has been sought out by numerous publications, including The New York Times, Conde Nast Portfolio, Washingtonian Magazine, Arizona Society Magazine, and CNN.

Liene studied cross-cultural psychology at Arizona State University and her experiences working in developing nations have enabled her to think quickly on her feet. While serving as one of the executive directors at an international non-profit, Liene received specialized training in leadership, crisis management, teambuilding, as well as conflict resolution and mediation. In addition to planning stylish weddings and events through Blue Orchid Designs, Liene is the founder of The Smart Planner, a business coaching resource for professional wedding consultants. Event planners from around the world have credited Liene's strategic mentoring with increasing their profit margins and improving productivity goals. Her first book is scheduled to be released Spring 2009.

The Longest Day

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Ramirez-Jasiczek) — Wed, 11 Feb 2009 17:08:00 +0000

"Twenty-four photographers. Twenty-four hours. Two teams. But there can be only ONE winner."

WPPI is right around the corner. What is WPPI? It is the mega of all conventions for photographers in Las Vegas. Why would a wedding planner care about WPPI? Well, all the great photographers will be there and the parties are fabulous. I only go for the networking and parties, I couldn't tell you squat about F Stop this or white balance that...but I can find tons of great industry friends. Since we do a lot of destination weddings, we like to use photographers from all over...

I've been watching episodes of "The Longest Day" . At the end of this project, the winner earns $3k for their charity. Click above on "The Longest Day to watch from the beginning. You can watch the final product here:

You will recognize many of the names here: Robert Evans, The [b]ecker, Joe Photo, Amber Horlitz, Dane Sanders, Brook Todd, Jasmine Star, Jessica Claire...the list goes on. Here are my fave parts of the final product and I know you will enjoy them too:

Robert Evans, Mr. Tom and Katie himself...and his awesome equipment bag, uh, I mean sack
the [b]ecker with his 1's and 4's and bouncing light off the fat aunt - new fave words "Foof and Buttery"
Dane Sanders Fast "Crack" Photography book - we need one for wedding planners
Jules Bianchi and her gummy bear white balance solution
the Mike Colon spoof was very very funny...can't wait to ask him about his reaction
And please, can I send my personal photos to Kevin Kubota!?
Bambi Cantrell can carry her bling
And lastly, don't miss Brook Todd busting a move on stage, then off...

Wedding & Event Alphabet Project

noreply@blogger.com (Jennifer Ramirez-Jasiczek) — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 06:00:00 +0000

So, I stumbled across this website: Project Alphabet. And i've done my own little twist to their idea and will be blogging about it. We will be posting our favorite wedding things that begin with a certain letter in the alphabet. Naturally, my instinct is to begin with the letter A, but I am going to start with the letter S. I love shoes - which is explains the "shoe" label on a wedding planning blog. Keep a look out for Alphabet Wednesdays....

"S" is for shoes and style. Go all out and wear some awesome shoes under your fabulous dress.