All Tulled Up: Online Wedding Planning

Dance

2013-08-14T12:11:00.000-05:00

WE HAVE MOVED!!

2013-04-16T11:00:00.000-05:00

Hey Y'all!

Thanks for stopping by! I have moved everything over to a new site and I'd love to see you there!

Come and see the new Wordpress site: All Tulled Up. Listed there are all the old blog posts and the future home to many more, as well as new online wedding planning pricing and package information, free weekly email updates and more!

See you there!

Engagement Memories

2013-03-22T13:11:00.001-05:00

"So here I am, waist-deep in wedding planning as I type this, and forcing myself to "come back to reality" with all the dreams I wrote down in my wedding notebook growing up. I flip through that square, pink book now and I chuckle a little. The girls I had planned on asking to be my bridesmaids have come and gone. The spectacular hotel I listed as the reception location is no longer. My lifelong vision of a new years eve wedding is not a desire of mine now. And every guy I thought-whether for 5 minutes or 5 years-would be the figure in the tux standing up at the altar kinda makes me concerned for my mental health.

I look ahead to the following 365 days (plus a few more) with optimism, anticipation, and a smidge of anxiousness. I'm thrilled with the idea of trying on my dress and knowing it in an instant! My liver aches a little at the thought of all the drinks to be consumed at the bachelorette party with my bridal entourage. I couldn't be more ecstatic to begin receiving response cards from the 150 invitations we have yet to print, address, and send across the country. But more importantly, my eyes fill with tears at the idea of looking down the aisle of my childhood church and seeing my very best friend & soon-to-be husband at the other end."

While looking through my personal Facebook page this afternoon, I stumbled upon this note I wrote and shared on May 10, 2011. Reading through this now gives me the chills-stepping back into that moment and remembering the exact feelings, emotions and thoughts I experienced more than a year before my wedding day. I hadn't yet asked all of my bridesmaids, gone dress shopping or even finalized my color scheme. I had endless amounts of work to do, decisions to make and items to cross off my to-do list, but I wasn't thinking about that. I was thinking about the life I was planning with my husband and the impending celebration we would share with our friends and family. I wasn't scared, angry, stressed or even confused. I felt secure, empowered and excited.

Our Engagement Party Cake

This isn't my typical style, content or focus. It's personal, deep and emotional, but I'm posting this because I want every bride to have that feeling I experienced almost two years ago now, and not just for one blissful evening, but for the duration of their engagement.

I've often wondered if my work is desirable to other brides and grooms, as any new business owner would, and after reading this and feeling that I have stepped back in time, I know that it is. I plan weddings for the women who have planned them since they can remember. Although the plans may have evolved with time, the little girl who will forever be a dreamer is still the same. And I want the experience of planning your wedding to be full of positive memories and exciting times, so that when you look back on it years from now, as I am, you'll feel that you enjoyed every minute of it. I love what I do and I am so very privileged to work with every.single.couple.

5 Things I Would've Done Differently

2013-03-15T10:16:00.003-05:00

If I could do it all over again...

I wouldn't have worried so much about numbers. My bridal party, for example, was uneven after a bridesmaid opted out. Instead of just letting it be that way, I asked my brother's girlfriend. Almost a year later, they've broken up and she will forever be in my wedding photos. All for the sake of keeping it even.
I would've booked the best photographer available and adjusted my budget accordingly. (cautionary tale on wedding photography) I also would've compiled a list of shots I wanted from my photographer. I hate seeing adorable photos on Pinterest and wishing I had a similar one.
I would've looked into hosting our ceremony and reception at the same location. It would've saved us the hassle of booking a limo, given us more time for pictures and allowed the guests time to relax instead of traveling in between.
I would've done a "first look" with my groom! Those shots are to die for and I love the idea of having that special moment alone, rather than in front of an audience.

Brooke G Images

Irish Eyes Photography

I would've hosted a morning-after brunch. Rather than leaving for our honeymoon first thing the next morning, I would've waited a few hours and spent some time with all of our out of town guests at a small breakfast. It would've allowed us to spend more quality time with family and not be rushing to the airport.

What types of things do you imagine you'll regret if you don't do them?
Or if you're already married, what are the things you'd do over if you could? Comment below and tell me your thoughts!

Also, please take a moment to complete this short survey I've compiled to better serve my future brides and grooms. All results are anonymous, so please be honest! Thank you in advance!

Wedding Budget: Affordable Floral Options

2013-03-08T11:02:00.001-06:00

When it comes to booking the florist for your wedding, it's very common for couples to experience some serious sticker shock. From corsages and boutonnieres to altar arrangements and reception centerpieces, the tally adds up quickly, leaving some brides to rethink their dream bouquet. Wedding budgets are serious business and keeping your purchases within them can be tricky. While there are many ways to save money on your wedding as well as wedding budget cuts you should avoid, finding cost-effective alternatives to your ideal flowers may not be as obvious.

But, wait! You don't have to cut arrangements or shrink their sizes. All you have to do is be a little creative, think outside the box and know your stuff before meeting with a professional.

While in your wedding floral dreams, you may picture thousands upon thousands of exotic flowers making their appearance in every inch of the day, it's likely that your budget just doesn't allow for it. And trust me when I tell you, that's okay! Two of my favorite cost-cutting options are quickly being recognized for their tiny price tag as well as their undiscovered elegance: carnations and baby's breath.

Baby's breath? YES! I know what you're thinking, but stay with me here and tell me these photos aren't gorgeous...baby's breath or not!

WeddingBee

Elevage Events

And for all my ladies hosting a rustic wedding, you honestly couldn't find a better floral option than baby's breath, as it meshes so perfectly with burlap and lace.

Snippet and Ink

Sara Jane Blog

Once Wedd

Okay, so maybe I haven't convinced you with the baby's breath option. I know we don't typically think of carnations as wedding flowers, but we really should! When bunched together and arranged in bulk, they have the look of expensive and over-the-top for a fraction of the cost!

Martha Stewart Weddings

Gimme Some Sugar

Bella Wedding Flowers

When you go to meet with prospective florists (yes, that's plural. Always meet with 3 vendors in each category before choosing one!!), do a little research beforehand about the average costs of the flowers you most prefer, so you're not blown away by the quote they give you. Don't be afraid to ask them about look-alike options that may save your pennies. (ex: ranuculus in place of peonies) Make sure you have a number in your head before going in and let them know what the budget they have to work with will be. You can always compromise by using fillers and affordable flowers with the more expensive ones.

What flowers do you plan to have in your bouquet or centerpieces? Or are you doing non-floral options? Tell me about your ideas below! And if you're looking for more original and affordable floral options for your wedding, email me with any questions and I'll do my best to help!

Giveaway Winner & Bridesmaid Tips

2013-03-04T09:33:00.000-06:00

Last week, we celebrated 100 likes on our Facebook page with a stylish giveaway. Since then, our likes have doubled and we've gained some more lovely readers.

The winner of the $50 Kiki La'Rue gift card is Amanda Kiebler! Congratulations, Amanda!

Thank you all for entering! And if you are still dying for some KLR goodies, make sure you like them on Facebook, because they are always hosting their own giveaways. In fact, they will be giving away $250 in gift cards when they reach 10,000 likes, so share, share, share (the photo below) for your chance to grab some freebies.

And now for today's post, I want to focus on something that doesn't get a lot of attention on the blog: the bridal party. No one wants to be the bothersome bridesmaid, so today I'm sharing with you tips on how to not only avoid that, but blow the bride away with your fabulous bridesmaid abilities!

Until you've experienced it once, the responsibilities you take on when you agree to be in a wedding may not be exactly clear...er followed. Being a bridesmaid isn't just about getting the bride drunk one night, gifting a few items from her registry and showing up in the dress she chose for you. And sometimes those extra responsibilities are either overlooked entirely or just unknown.

Feministing

From beginning to end, this is what the timeline of a bridesmaid will look like:

Get fitted for and order your dress. (Hint: Try not to be this girl...)

Coordinate shower plans with the other bridesmaids and maid of honor
Purchase gifts (either off the registry or something you're SURE she wants) for the shower, engagement and wedding
Purchase shoes and accessories for wedding day, with the bride's approval
Assist bride with wedding errands, projects and decisions when she asks
Attend rehearsal and dinner
Arrive on wedding-morning on time (or early) and stand by the bride as she marries the man of her dreams!

And if you really want to be super-bridesmaid, and trust me, you'll want to stay on the brides' good side, because her emotions will be crazy (and you can't blame her)! Here's some tips:

Don't offer your opinion unless asked. Remember this is not your day!
Don't complain to the bride about anything wedding-related. If you're having an issue with something minor, figure it out on your own or talk to someone else who can help.
Keep the bride's wishes in mind. Keep her likes and dislikes in mind when making shower and bachelorette party plans.
Work as a team with the other members of the bridal party. Do not argue, try to take over or dismiss thoughts and opinions of the other girls.

Offer often to help with wedding plans
Be thoughtful. Friendships and relationships can change a lot during an engagement. The little things you do for her during this time will be remembered always!
Be patient with her! She's got a lot on her mind and a to-do list that seemingly never ends. Keep that in mind when she's slow to return your call or text.
And on the flip-side of that, keep her in check! Don't let her entire life be taken over by the wedding and remind her the world is still moving outside of wedding plans. She will thank you for it later, if not immediately!
Be a friend, a support-system and a sister. Stand proudly next to her as she says "I do" and celebrate excitedly with her all night and send her off to a wonderful honeymoon with her new hubby!

Would you add any other items to the list? Comment below and tell me what you think are the best and worst traits or actions of a bridesmaid.

Chevron Wedding Inspiration

2013-03-01T11:58:00.000-06:00

As you can see, in lieu of a photo post today, we are going to delve into the infinite world of wedding inspiration! If the background on this blog is any indication, I am obsessed with all things chevron and I love being inspired by current trends in fashion and bringing them to the wedding world. I love the idea of taking a pattern and using it to create the theme for any party, and especially a wedding. So if you're looking for some chevron wedding inspiration, you've arrived at the right destination!

As with any theme, the first glimpse of your wedding will be in the wedding invitation. Be sure to include your chevron in all of your wedding stationary! Be creative, without being overpowering. You still want your guests to read the invitation wording! Chevron your envelopes or seal with a chevron sticker. Use chevron labels or create custom chevron postage stamps!

KXO Design

Oh So Beautiful Paper

Y'all know I love me some pretty table decor and whatever your theme/ color scheme, it belongs on the guest tables! Use table runners, chair sashes, extra details and centerpieces to accent the color scheme with your pattern. Keep the patterned items to a maximum of one of two per table to avoid looking too busy.

Style Unveiled

Patterned and themed cakes are a perfect way to implement chevron into your wedding design at your reception! Again, don't overwhelm your cake design, but keep most of it simple (read: white or solid color), allowing you to feature the chevron as well as your wedding colors on one or two tiers.

Belle

Clever Confections via Cake Central

Once you've covered all of these categories, you'll want to add little bits of chevron here and there in the details. Think about your ceremony pews or chair decoration, bridal party accessories (pocket squares, ties, bouquet ribbon, jewelry, etc.) and any other extra items you may be including.

Bloomed to Last

The Favor Box

Any time you plan to incorporate a pattern into a wedding, remember to keep it simple! Whether it's the beloved and popular chevron, stripes or polka dots, any pattern can quickly become overwhelming and overdone. Choose a few items to deck out in your theme, while keeping everything else simple in solid colors. If you think it's too much, it probably is.

What are your favorite wedding themes or patterns? Would you like to see more wedding pattern/ color inspiration? Let me know in the comment section below! And don't forget to enter the Kiki La'Rue giveaway!

Fitness Guest Post: Kelli from The Turquoise Piano

2013-02-27T10:33:00.000-06:00

We all know one of the first things to be added to the wedding to-do list is to get your engaged booty to the gym! And whether you're trying to lose a few pounds or just tone up what you already got, we all want to look our very best on our wedding day!

Well, since I am no fitness expert, I have invited one of my new favorite bloggers to talk a little about getting in shape for your big day. Take it away, Kelli...

"First of all, thanks Meaghan for letting me guest today. I love meeting new bloggers and their friends!

Hey y'all! My name is Kelli. I'm a mom of two little girls trying to lose the baby weight and I actually never really say y'all out loud. I'm from Utah. It's just not in our vocab (but I say it in my head all the time). I blog over at The Turquoise Piano about fitness, DIY, decor, real estate, and some kid stuff. Basically whatever I have to say, I say it there.

Today I want to talk about weight loss before your wedding (or your friend's wedding). I know you want to look your best on your wedding day. I did. But between the stress of planning the wedding and spending enough quality time with the people who matter, we often struggle with how to get there. I did the Atkins diet for a few weeks before. Worst. Diet. Ever. For me. It's basically all fat and protein and zero carbs. I had no energy and felt sick. And the worst thing is that even if I did lose weight, I gained it all back plus more that quickly.

Fast forward a year and I lost my job and started a new one as a nutrition and exercise consultant because I had a bachelors degree in exercise science. My new job was where I learned how to be healthy.

The first thing you need to know is to never eat below 1200 calories. Your body will lose weight, but as much as it loses fat it will lose muscle and you'll be the same body fat percentage. Not lean. I suggest eating 5-7 small meals per day with 200-400 calories in each meal. That way your metabolism stays high and burns fatty fat fat.

The second is that lifting weights will not make you bulky. You're not going to look like you're a weight lifter on steroids -- unless you are on steroids. Lifting weights is important to burn calories and become lean, which is what you want. I suggest lifting 2-5 times per week.

Cardio is also important. I suggest at least walking 4-5 times a week for at least 30 minutes. Doing so burns your fat storage and you also get leaner.

It's all about becoming lean. It's not all about losing weight. Please do it the right way. You can come over to The Turquoise Piano for my workouts, meal plans, and more suggestions. Leave comments, email me with questions, whatever! I'm here to help."

Thank you, Kelli, for sharing your fitness insights today! If you like what you read today, get yourself over to her blog and check out more. Also be sure to leave Kelli some comment love below!

And if you haven't yet, make sure you enter the Kiki La'Rue giveaway before it ends on Monday.

Kiki La'Rue Giveaway!

2013-02-25T10:12:00.001-06:00

Thanks to all of my lovely readers, I have finally reached and passed my goal of 100 Facebook likes! And y'all know what that means...it's finally giveaway time!

After years of wrestling with the idea of wedding planning as a career, this year, I finally took the plunge and with every small goal accomplished, I am reassured that I am on the right path. My dreams of becoming an online wedding planner are slowly but surely coming true! Thank you to all of you for reading, commenting and following. Thank you for sharing this journey with me!

When I first announced the impending giveaway at the beginning of the year, I knew, without a doubt, it had to be Kiki La'Rue. If you don't know about KLR yet, you are seriously missing out! I can't help but order new pieces left and right...their stuff really is that addicting! And honestly, as a wedding planning website, I can't think of a more fitting clothing store. Whether you're the bride shopping for the perfect shower dress or honeymoon attire or a bridesmaid searching for adorable outfits for pre-wedding festivities, you've found the perfect destination.

Check out some of my new favorite pieces:

Egyptian Queen Dress

Fan of your Game Dress

Natalie Dress

Fade into me Dress (also comes in Plus)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

After you've entered, head over to KLR's website to see what you would get with your $50 gift card and then comment on this post and tell me! Good Luck!

Autumn Rustic Wedding: Lisa & Kenny

2013-02-22T10:52:00.000-06:00

Happy Friday! If you're a regular on the blog, then you know I have a soft spot for rustic weddings. I love the simplicity and the natural elements that combine to create a stunning backdrop for the event. I'm a sucker for all things burlap, mismatched bridal party attire, haybail seating and handmade centerpieces. Rustic weddings may be the trend of right now, but they are nothing new won't be on their way out any time soon!

Lisa & Kenny were married on November 3, 2012 at Immaculate Conception Parish in O'Fallon, Missouri. In between ceremony and celebration, they stopped at Faust Park for some lovely outdoor shots, complete with the freshly fallen autumn leaves. The couple combined soft, muted pinks, touches of gold and the perfect amount of nature to create a romantic feel. And no rustic wedding is complete without plenty of cowboy boots!

Thanks to Kelly Adler at Irish Eyes Photography LLC, Lisa & Kenny for sharing this gorgeous rustic wedding with my readers and myself today. I have been gushing over these images for weeks waiting to post them for you all to see. Head over to their Facebook page (linked above) and check out their work. If you're interested in more information, me or Irish Eyes and tell them I sent you! Also be sure to check out Kelly's first featured wedding on my blog here.

If you'd like your own rustic wedding featured on All Tulled Up, contact me for more info!

Cautionary Tale about Wedding Photography

2013-02-20T11:27:00.001-06:00

It's not often that I get too personal on this blog and that's because it's not about me...it's about you! I write these posts, add beautiful images, contact talented vendors and work hard for all of my brides and grooms, in an effort to make your wedding planning a little bit easier. Because even if you choose not to hire me, I still want to help you! But today, I am going to write a little about me to help you.

I spent 14 long months planning the perfect wedding on a small budget. I was still very young (20), living with my parents, while my soon-to-be hubby was working hard to pay off his student loans and working an extremely demanding job. Thankfully, my amazing parents offered to pay for our wedding. I paid for small things here and there, but the overall expense was left on my parents.

In all the years I had spent reading magazines and bridal blogs, choosing the elements of my dream wedding, I knew it was an expensive event, yes, but I did not realize the real price tags of individual items until it was time to pay for them, and my parents were even more shocked than I was. This was the moment my real passion for planning weddings on a budget was born. I was determined to find an affordable option for everything. And choosing a photographer was where I began. After already booking one, I ran into an old family friend, who after congratulating me, reminded me she was a photographer. Knowing her and feeling comfortable with her, I went home, checked out her portfolio and prices and cancelled with the first photographer to book the family friend.

Biggest. Mistake. Ever.

A few months later, our engagement photos had turned out gorgous and communication was going smooth. On the day of the wedding, I felt that things went better than planned...until I thought back and realized a lot of the shots I had requested weren't taken. A few days later, I called my mom from our honeymoon, cried a little bit, but then reassured myself that I was overreacting and that my pictures would be beautiful!

Then, three months later and I get the photos in the mail. All that I can remember, after anxiously popping the CD into my computer, is tears streaming down my face. I cried a lot. And I cried for days. Instead of the typical thousands of images from a wedding, I received less than 800. Instead of flawlessly edited photos, I received blurry, dark, far away, awkward and duplicate shots. (These examples are the best of the bad, being that the awful ones are still on a CD in my office that I don't particularly want to look at.)

Even with two photographers, there is one photo of our first kiss and well, it sucks!

There is not a single photo of my husband and I at the altar. Not a single photo of my brother with my family and I. There are only a tiny handful of pictures that the hubs & I are even alone in...and most of them aren't very good. No photos of our first toast (except this staged one she asked to take as she was gathering her things and leaving the reception...)

I am still sad and I will always regret my decision and wish I had better photos to remember this day by. Thankfully, this photographer has sinced removed wedding photography from her list of services on her website so no other couples will have to go through what we did.

You can have the wedding photos you've always dreamed of or even better, if you make better decisions than I did. Here are some tips and things to look for in a photographer...

Don't book a photographer unless:

you see several full wedding albums they have done in the last few years
you read reviews online or ask for reviews or contact information from previous clients
their main (or one of their main) focus(es) is weddings/ engagements
they have a team or second photographer working with them
they are professional!

Things to look for:

good standing with the BBB
referrals from other local wedding vendors
they've been featured on wedding blogs/ websites
awards from prominent wedding businesses and sites
archives and portfolio listed on their website
good editing skills in their work
check out their facebook page for recent activity
a reasonable rate (you get what you pay for!)

Please feel free to contact me for any assistance in finding the right vendors for your wedding. Comment below and tell me what other things you think could be added to this list of things to look for!

The Opposite of "Congrats on your engagment!"

2013-02-18T13:33:00.000-06:00

Source: zazzle.com via Quote Life on Pinterest

This past weekend, the hubs and I headed to my hometown to celebrate my belated 22nd birthday with family. While at dinner, my Grandma reminded me of the fact that she had been married for two years and was expecting her first baby within months of turning the same age. Although similar scenarios do take place today, it's not nearly as common as it used to be.

The hubs proposed to me on March 26, 2011. I was just 20 years old. But that didn't cross my mind for a nanosecond when I said "yes!" because I knew I was being asked to spend my life with the man for me. Being a younger bride/ wife, I especially enjoy planning weddings for couples in the same boat. Because it can be challenging and not just financially, but from a social aspect as well.

Shortly after we shared the news with close friends and family, we excitedly posted our new relationship status to Facebook. And (to my face) the feedback was excitement, congratulatory wishes and genuine happiness for this new chapter in our lives. But it didn't take long for the negative comments to surface. People would condesceningly say things like, "How old are you??" or "Why would you wanna throw your life away like that?" I was consistenly reminded that the statistics were against us. I even recall multiple comments about an eminent divorce.

I was not only hurt, but furioius. How dare anyone tell me when to get married or that my marriage was doomed to fail?! One afternoon, I posted a status about my frustration with all of the rude comments and was immediately comforted by friends who had received the same or even worse reactions.

People will always have something to say, especially the ones who don't even know you! And yes, the majority of people will be happy for you, but you may have to be prepared for the ones who aren't when their comments take you by surprise. Sometimes it's out of spite or jealousy and sometimes it's simply because people think they must have a say in everything, especially topics which are none of their business.

Young engaged couples may face different obstacles in their relationships, but at the end of the day, you will know when you've met the one you want to build a life with. And it doesn't matter if you're 22 or 42.

Source: kushandwizdom.tumblr.com via David's Bridal on Pinterest

It's okay to get married young and it's also okay to wait. And no matter what your age, everyone will have an opinion on every.single.decision you make regarding your wedding. So take the negative words as they come, have a snarky response ready and...

Winter Wedding: Michael & Jamie

2013-02-15T07:28:00.002-06:00

It's Friday, which means it's photo post day!! I love sharing weddings and engagments with you guys every week. I am constantly meeting new and talented photographers who are willing to share their work with me and I look forward to posting those images all week long. This week, I am sharing another adorable winter wedding. Enjoy!

After meeting in college, Michael and Jamie recently tied the knot on December 29, 2012. The ceremony took place at St. Vincent de Paul Parish in the heart of St. Louis, followed by a reception at the Wildwood Hotel. Given a short timeframe, Jamie managed to find time to plan her wedding, attend school and prepare for a huge move to the east coast immediately following the wedding. The celebration served not only as a sendoff into married life but a fabulous goodbye party as well. Jake Sorrill of If Only...Photography captured their day.

*Credits for all images to If Only...Photography*

Thank you, Michael & Jamie for allowing me to share the memories of your beautiful day! If you would like to have your wedding or engagement featured on the blog, email me for more info!

Wedding Budget: Cuts to Avoid

2013-02-13T10:51:00.002-06:00

No matter what your wedding budget is, it's likely that you will be looking for ways to cut costs where possible. And why not? There are so many small things you can do or change that will make a huge difference in the overall amount of money you will spend. But there are endless amounts of articles about how to pinch your wedding pennies. However, there aren't a lot of articles explaining the things you should avoid cutting back on.

Don't host a cash bar: Just don't do it. Alcohol can amount to a a large percentage of the costs for your reception, but you can host an open bar on the cheap. It's so common nowadays to go to a wedding serving only beer, wine, soda and signature drinks or a combination of the four. If your reception location allows you to bring your own alcohol, buy some kegs and plenty of wine and you will save big! If you're looking to save even more, think about hosting a morning bruch and serving only mimosas or even going sans alcohol.

Photo Credit: Wedding Bee

Don't skip table decor: Centerpieces are the focal point of each table and an essential element of your reception decor. A room full of bare tables says restaurant, not wedding reception. Flowers are not the only option for centerpieces either. Think outside the box, but within your theme and use items that are unique to you.

Photo Credit: Benfield Photography

Don't cut videography: This is often one of the first things to go when cutting costs, but it shouldn't be! Read what wedding pros, MPA Productions have to say about this essential service here.

Don't serve food just because it's cheap: A deciding factor is your guests' enjoyment is how much they did or didn't enjoy their meal. Taste tests, whenever possible, are extremely helpful in making sure your guests will leave feeling satisfied and not heading for the nearest McDonald's. If the delicious catering service you prefer is out of your price range, think about serving an hors d'oeurves buffet in place of dinner or a brunch reception instead of heavy evening meal.

Don't ditch the favors: Your guests may have plans to cancel, work to skip and traveling to do in order to attend your event. And aside from that, the people who attend your wedding have contributed a lot to get you and your groom to this point in your lives. For both of these reasons, they deserve a small thank you.

Photo Credit: Steven Myers Photography and Once Wed

There are so many ways you should save money on your wedding costs. And if you need further assistance, email me and I would love to help you!

What do you all think about these no-no's? Are there any others you think should be added to the list?

Morning of the Wedding Do's & Don'ts

2013-02-11T10:28:00.000-06:00

In the midst of all the wedding craziness, plans for the morning of the celebration may seem trivial, but don't overlook this crucial time. Second only to the actual wedding, this will be one of the shortest handful of hours to date. But it will be such a special part of your day that you will want to remember: your last few hours as a single woman!

Don't Stay up all Night: As difficult as it may be to get a good night's sleep before the big day with all the excitement brewing inside you, make it happen! Take some natural sleep-aids, take a warm bath, drink some tea and head to bed early!

Do Wake Up Alone: Spend the first few minutes of the morning all by yourself, soaking in the feeling of knowing it's finally your wedding day. You will be surrounded the rest of the day, so enjoy a few minutes of "me-time" before it all begins!

Do Wear Something Special: Go ahead and buy one of those "bride" or "Mrs..." dresses, robes or shirts to get ready in. Not only does it keep your hair and makeup in tact, but it looks adorable in photos and makes for a wonderful keepsake!

Source: blog.karikochar.com via Kat on Pinterest

Do Bring Beauty to You: If at all possible, have the beauty experts come to you! Whether it's at your home or a hotel room, being able to stay in one place will keep nerves at bay and allow you to enjoy more. Spend a few minutes the night before gathering fees and tips (if necessary) in envelopes and have them ready for the morning.

Source: elimurray.com via Amber on Pinterest

Don't do Wedding Projects: As tempting as it may be to save money and arrange your own flowers the morning of your wedding, don't do it! The morning of your wedding is a time for relaxation and pampering. If you must do anything for the wedding, assign the task to the bridal party, family or your wedding coordinator.

Don't Forget the Food & Drinks: Make arrangements for food to be delivered or pick it up the night before after the rehearsal dinner. You won't want to spend the morning cooking, so order room service or call a nearby bakery. And if there ever was a morning where mimosas were mandatory, this is it! Better yet, try this new take on a morning bevarage: champagne and tangerine sorbet. Yum!

Source: pin4fun5921.blogspot.com via Ramay on Pinterest

Do Invite your Photographer: Having someone there to capture the hair-fixing and makeup applying along with the laughs and love will be more imporant than you think!

Source: deliciousness1.blogspot.com via Ronald on Pinterest

Do Create a Playlist: Think ahead and create a wedding-morning playlist of upbeat songs to keep the energy up and make you feel good, like this one below.

Photo Credit: Social Life

With these tips, you will be able to make the most of this short time, making wonderful memories with your favorite ladies!
What do you plan to do (or not do) on the morning of your wedding? Comment below and tell me what you think also belongs on this list.

Winter Wedding: Paul & Stephanie

2013-02-08T09:40:00.000-06:00

When I came across Jesse & Gena, I knew I had to work with them so I immediately emailed them and they agreed to share one of their recent weddings! Jesse Daniels Photography is located in Evansville, Indiana, but the team is also available for travel and destination weddings.

In the following photos, you are are able to get a feel for this adorable couple, who chose a fabulously trendy color scheme for their December nuptials. Paul & Stephanie went for a winter wonderland, using snowflakes, ornaments and even "snow fall" during their first dance. In the outdoor photos, the twinkling lights in the trees elicit a romantic feel, while the superhero photos of the bridal party allow for a glimpse at their silly sides. In every image, Jesse & Gena do a wonderful job of bringing the small details to life!

For more information about Jesse & Gena, head over to their Facebook, portfolio and blog. (P.S. I am loving this engagement shoot and you will too!)

Make sure to leave me some comment love and tell me what you are dying over in this wedding post!

Wedding Color Scheme: Navy Blue

2013-02-07T10:21:00.003-06:00

If you haven't yet heard, one of the big wedding colors for 2013 is navy blue (Pantone is calling it "monaco blue"), which means I should probably go into the business of reading crystal balls, as navy was my color before it was cool...see?

So if you're looking to stay on-trend (like me) with your wedding colors, you might want to use this deep shade of blue. But then the question remains, as it does anytime you pick your predominant color: how do you know what your accent colors should be? Well, like a good wedding planner, I've got you covered...with plenty of options!

Navy & Coral: What's not to love about this? I love how the coral brightens everything up. Perfect for spring & summer!

Photo Credit: Wedding Paper Divas

Navy & Blush: Blush pink is one of my newest favorite accent colors. It's just beautiful! It's light so it brings a look together without overpowering. And flowers in blush are effortlessly elegant.

Photo Credit: Port Gamble Weddings

Navy & Purple: With these two colors being so close on the color spectrum, they seemlessly blend together to create a gorgeous indigo tone. I suggest using all shades of purple, from lavender to eggplant alongside the deep blue. I love these colors together!

Photo Credit: Indy Getting Hitched

Navy & Mint: With mint being such a big color in fashion, this color duo makes perfect sense! Honestly, although I'm biased, any shade of green goes perfectly with navy, but this is, by far, my favorite!

Photo Credit: Raymond Lee Jewelers

Navy & Red: Red & blue may automatically conjure a view of the American flag, and you probably aren't looking for a patriotic color scheme. But simply deepening the shade of red and carefully blending the two shades creates a sophisticated fall or winter pallete, while a brighter shade of red allows for a nautical, summer look!

Photo Credit: OuterInner

Photo Credit: Groom Sold Separately

If you are looking for more color inspiration, check out Style Me Pretty, where you can search photos by color. And if you'd like assistance with your color scheme or anything for your wedding, email me. I'd love to help!

Which color duo is your favorite and which ones could you do without? Comment below and tell me!

Updates

2013-02-06T10:07:00.000-06:00

Good Morning, lovelies & Happy Wednesday!

Today is an exciting day for me because my first guest post is being featured on one of my new favorite style blogs! First of all, go check out Vanessa at 7Jaded: a newlywed, fashionista and web designer. Then go check out my guest post on the 2013 trends in bride and groom fashion here.

I also have two beautiful photo posts planned for this Friday and next that you will fall in love with! I know you don't want to miss them, so go ahead and join the site or subscribe to make sure you get updates on new posts!

And finally for today, if you haven't "liked" our Facebook page, now is the time! I am planning an exciting giveaway when we reach 100 likes and we are less than 10 away!

See you all tomorrow with a brand, new post!

Luxury Honeymoon on a Budget

2013-02-04T11:12:00.001-06:00

It's Monday, there's snow on the ground here in Indiana and the sun is nowhere in sight. After a short bout of writer's block this morning, the topic of the day was obvious: HONEYMOON!

Paradise Point in San Diego

Whether you're just engaged, halfway through or somewhere in between, dreams of your honeymoon are dancing in your head (maybe behind the list of decisions to make...but they're there). The tradition of an immediate vacation following a wedding is pretty ingenious if you think about it. A week with your new hubs, getting tan and relaxing on the beach sounds so dreamy, it will get you through the most stressful days of wedding plans.

Unless you're one of the lucky few receiving your honeymoon as a gift or planning your own with an unlimited budget, you probably want a luxury trip without breaking the bank.

If you're not already on the mailing list for sites like Groupon and Living Social, you are passing up prime opportunities to save money on 5-star resorts. Or if you already have your options narrowed down but don't like the prices, try Funjet for savings on resorts, airfare, vehicles and activities. Try searching specifically for all-inclusive resorts (especially in Mexico) where everything you could possibly need is at your fingertips and included in your price!

The newest fad in honeymoons are cruises. And why not? Virtually everything is included in the price, (minus alcohol) and the opportunity to visit multiple locations is a serious bonus! Generally, unless you're booking a stay on a brand-new ship, cruise prices are extremely affordable and even more so in the off season! (Bonus for winter brides!!) You can easily book a 5-7 day cruise for two for around $1000 plus airfare. Try using this site to search cruises by port, length, desitnation and cruiseline. Searching by port location is so helpful because you can save even more money by choosing a port that is the least expensive to fly to or within driving distance from where you live.

Staying within the country will also save you big, especially if you don't already have passports. The United States offers some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Think San Diego (I highly suggest Paradise Point!) and the Florida Keys. Or opt for a different climate entirely. Research the options in Northern California, Colorado or Maine. You'd be suprised at the appeal of a non-traditional honeymoon location and the romance to be found at a cabin in the mountains, a trip to the vineyard, or a bed & breakfast on the East coast.

When all else fails, try a local travel agent and see what options they have for you. I am certainly no travel agent and don't claim to be, but I do have a knack for finding amazing deals on travel, within a couple's budget, so if you're still looking for more ideas or interested in more information, email me, I'd love to help!

Have you "liked" us on Facebook yet? Head over to our page and check it out! We are only 10 "likes" away from our first giveaway!

Guest Post: MPA Weddings

2013-02-01T11:28:00.000-06:00

In the short time that I've been blogging and growing my wedding planning business, I've had the opportunity to network with and "meet" so many talented faces of the wedding industry, from all over the country. Thanks to the social-networking abilities of Twitter, I have been introduced to some of my new favorite wedding blogs and vendors. So today, I would like to introduce you to one of them, the award-winning photography/ videography duo of MPA Weddings, Mandy & Adam.

Mandy so cleverly apporoached me about discussing the importance of videography and I'm so thankful that she did. Because if there's one thing that I want my brides to know, it's the importance of the two things you're left with after the celebration is over: photo & video.

"A wedding video is the most valuable part of a wedding that too many brides overlook. I can’t even begin to recount how many times people say to me, “I wish I would have had a wedding videographer.” Shortly after our clients receive their wedding video, we get notes from older siblings and parents letting us know just how much they feel they missed out at their own weddings. Maybe it’s the way new technology has enabled us to capture such beautiful, cinematic footage of weddings without having to charge and arm and a leg, or maybe it’s that the moments of a wedding (though they take forever to plan) pass by in the blink of an eye. Whatever it is, the value of a wedding video has never been higher.

It’s true that a picture is worth a thousand words, but a video is a thousand words and a thousand pictures. For anyone that is on the fence about hiring a professional wedding videographer or anyone that wants reassurance that they are making one of the best decisions of their lives, there are 5 essential reasons why deciding against capturing your day on video is a big mistake.

1. Memories Fade. With each passing year, the stories get shorter and names change. The original speech your brother gave that made everyone laugh slowly morphs into what you argue may have been a zinger from dad or a wise crack from a cousin. When your 25^th anniversary arrives, you have an easier time recalling what you ate, than what anybody said or did. Fortunately, you have your wedding movie to help you remember.

2. Blink Of An Eye. You spend months (or even years) planning an event that comes and goes in a matter of hours. As the bride and groom, you start your day getting dressed and moving from one place to the next. The ceremony comes and goes in a matter of minutes. After your photo shoot, you are eating dinner and listening to speeches, still trying to comprehend that you just got married! Next thing you know, your friends and family are seeing you off and you wake up the next morning feeling like you had just been through a whirlwind. At that point, there is no better feeling than knowing that in a few weeks, you’ll be receiving your wedding video and will have the chance to figure out exactly where the day went.

3. What You May Have Missed. As the bride is the last one to walk down the isle, she clearly wont be able to see the bridal party walk before her or her niece throwing the flowers that took months to arrange. She will miss her dog trotting the ring down the isle and the laughter of the crowd when they see the adorable arrival sign her nephew carried. Fleeting moments like these are forever gone and will never be seen by the bride…unless of course you have a wedding video.

4. Words Are Worth A Thousand Pictures. Your maid of honor “googled” every brides maid speech ever written and the best man spent weeks combing through draft after draft trying to figure out the best balance of heart felt and funny. Your father contemplated for years what he would say when the day would come when he would have to give his little girl away. You spent lifetimes dreaming of your vowels and shed love filled tears trying to deliver them. Some moments deserve more than just a picture. They deserve a wedding video.

5. You’re The Star. Let’s face it, for most of us there will only be a few moments in our lives when all eyes are on us and only one time when we spend months and years planning and preparing to have a celebration of our own personal love. For one night only, you and your lover are the stars of a beautiful love story that you got to design and direct. Your wedding is your own personal piece of time, an art piece that should be treasured forever. To not capture the event as completely as possible would be a disservice to all the beauty the moment has to offer.

It breaks my heart every time I hear “I wish I would have gotten a wedding video.” I know that there is no way to go back in time and film those moments that have come and gone. As a wedding photographer, I know the power of capturing a single moment. As a wedding videographer, I know the power of capturing time itself."

Ready to see this talented team in action? Check out the photos and video from the gorgeous October 2012 wedding of Megan & Rad:

"Adam Chase and his partner, Mandy Philips, co-founded MPA Productions and MPA Weddings. With a strong passion for wedding photography and wedding videography, Adam brings a unique new style to the wedding industry. Adam has a knack for creating comfortable settings for his clients. His studies from University of Colorado and University of Maryland enable Adam to combine audio and visual skills into epic wedding experiences. Contact adam@mpaweddings.com and visit www.mpaweddings.com for more information."

Thank you so much, Mandy and Adam for sharing such an informative article, that I think is a must-read for every bride & groom! Please make sure to check out MPA Weddings on Facebook and Twitter to see more!

How to Plan a Wedding Without Losing your Sanity

2013-01-31T11:11:00.001-06:00

If you have been keeping up with recent posts, you may be inclined to think that planning a wedding is sunshine and roses from start to finish. Don't get me wrong, with an online wedding planner, wedding planning is easier! But, I'm not going to tell you that you won't have moments where you want to make a run for Vegas and call it quits on all the plans. Yes, I love weddings, they are my passion in this life, but I can't say I didn't have a small handful of "bridezilla" moments during my own 14-month engagement. So whether you're on the verge of losing it now or just having a bad day, sit back, read on and file this little advice post away for future reference.

If you're looking for an instant cure for your frustrations, you need to laugh and be entertained. After my wedding was over, I found a new love for following other bloggers and became instantly obsessed when I found Mama Laughlin's blog about her journey of getting fit, raising two (handsome) boys and looking hot doing it! And then she introduced her readers to Skinny Meg, a bubbly mom of one who lost over 100 pounds and shares her tips and sparkly, chevron style with the world. I kid you not, these women are hilarious! If you don't read their blogs~~, follow them on instagram, facebook, keek and pinterest~~, you should start...like, now!

photo credits: Mama Laughlin & Skinny Meg

That brings me to my next point, getting fit and getting engaged go together just as new years resolutions and gym memberships. So go for a run, lift some weights, or take Megan's advice and get in some squats! Trust me when I tell you, sweating cures it all!

Let's get to the real cure for any women's ailment and that's shopping. Of course you could go to your local mall or ~~my second home~~ Target and walk out with a whole new outlook on life or you could stay home in your jammies and shop at the most amazing online boutique ever, Kiki La'Rue. If you follow All Tulled Up on Facebook, then you know my obsession with this store runs deep. You can read more about that here and then immediately after, go buy some cute stuff from them and tell them I sent you!

Piko Top

Split Decision Dress

Short Sleeve Piko Dress

Most importantly and in all seriousness, spend time with your friends, family and fiance, minus the wedding discussion. Call up your best friend and go out for a girls day. See a movie, get your nails done or meet for dinner and drinks. Make any wedding-related talk off-limits at least one day a week. If you want these people around after you're married (kidding...kind of), remember to give them a break from your wedding once in a while and ask them about what's going on in their lives too.

And don't forget to do the same on date nights with your guy. Spend time at home getting your guest lists together and venting about wedding-related frustrations and then leave that all at home when you head out for a night out together. It will remind you that outside of wedding plans, life is still there.

Remember you're likely to be more sensitive to little things because you're overwhelmed with everything else. Blow past those minor mishaps and remember the real reason for all the madness...

Source: elementofelegance.com via Meaghan Shelton on Pinterest

Attendant Gifts: 5 Ways to Wow your Ring Bearer & Flower Girl

2013-01-30T11:58:00.000-06:00

Hopefully this mini-series on attendant gifts has helped take the frustration out of buying for your bridal party. The hardest part, by far, is choosing for the bridesmaids and groomsmen. So with that out of the way, this third and final post will be dedicated to the best part: the little ones!

When it comes to ring bearers, flower girls, junior brides(maids)/ grooms(men), your gifts of choice can definitely be less formal and more fun. That's not to say that you can't give monogrammed and fancy items, because for the right kid, you can! Just remember (especially with the youngest ones) that toys are always more appreciated than, well...anything else!

Something Similar: Especially if the kiddos will be with the wedding party when getting ready for the wedding, think about giving them similar if not the same gifts as the adults. Let's say you've decided to get your maids matching, monogrammed button-downs for the morning-of...have one made in your flower girl's size so she can feel like a part of the group!

Photo Credits: Millie'sGifts, SomethingGlitzy, ThePinkPixieShop, LittleGentlemen

One-on-One Time: Spend the day with him or her! As part of their gift, spend an afternoon getting pedicures, going to the baseball game or grabbing lunch.

Something to Play with: Go straight for their little hearts and get them the toy they've been dying to have! Or better yet, get them a gift card and let them pick out whatever they want.

Photo Credits: Melissa & Doug, Amazon, Build-a-Bear Workshop

Something Personalized: Personalized items are still a good idea! Just make sure it's something they will use, like a monogrammed backpack for school.

Photo Credits: stargazinglilly, TheStylishLetter, Gator Tots, Pottery Barn Kids

Something to Keep them Busy: If they don't fall asleep by the end of the night, chances are the kids of your wedding party will be bored at some point. Think ahead and grab them some activity/ coloring books, crayons and small toys they can entertain themselves with! (The Dollar Store has GREAT options for this!!)

Photo Credits: The Dollar Tree, Walmart, Five Below, Melissa & Doug

Well, that wraps up the series on attendant gifts! Do you have more questions or a post you'd love to see on the blog? Comment below and tell me! I'd love to hear from you!

Boudoir: Why it's a MUST for Brides!

2013-01-28T13:53:00.003-06:00

Happy Monday, ladies! Let's start the week off with one of my favorite new(er) bridal trends, shall we?

Maybe you've noticed that brides-to-be are loving the idea of boudoir photography sessions. If you're on Pinterest, you've probably come across (or re-pinned) photos like these:

Source: google.com via Meaghan Shelton on Pinterest

Source: kissthegroom.com via Meaghan Shelton on Pinterest

Maybe you're loving the idea too or maybe you're just an admirer of the beautiful images. Either way, you can't deny that when done tastefully, boudoir photography is simply stunning.

If you are even the tiniest bit interested in partaking in one of these sessions yourself (or even if you aren't), do it! Think about the smile on your groom's face as he receives an album filled with sexy photos of his soon-to-be wife on the morning of your wedding. Think about having your photographer snap a few stunning shots of you in your veil, sans clothing or in the seductive lingerie for under your dress.

Source: columbusboudoirblog.com via Nina on Pinterest

Trust me, this isn't just a gift for your guy, it's a fabulous gift for you as well. Imagine the liberating feeling of getting all dolled up with the deepest of smoky eyes, your highest of heels and your laciest of undergarments. You will leave that session with your head held high, oozing confidence the way a woman should! It won't matter that you wish your stomach was flatter, your boobs were bigger or your hips were smaller. A photographer with experience in boudoir will elicit your inner sex-goddess, shoot from flattering angles and give the Victoria's Secret girls a run for their money (minus the airbrushing)!

Source: weddingbee.com via Katherine on Pinterest

Source: weddingsandsuch.tumblr.com via Samantha on Pinterest

Still not convinced? I'll let you in on a little secret...5 months before my wedding, I had boudoir photos taken for the hubs. Like many women, I had seen the posts on wedding forums and photography blogs and was intrigued. But two things were holding me back: cost and my insecurities. I didn't want to spend a couple hundred dollars on photos in which I looked uncomfortable or unattractive. So I waited...and then I was introduced to Heather Roth Photography and I immediately signed up for her upcoming boudoir event.

I am so glad I did! Heather was absolutely amazing! Before we began, she had champagne waiting to calm the nerves and gave me tips on how to look comfortable and make the most of our short time together. Before I knew it, I had forgotten that I was scantily clad and was shockingly comfortable in front of a woman I had just met. I absolutely LOVED working with her and would do it again in a heartbeat!

At the time, Heather asked for permission to share my images on her blog and I declined for fear of future employers finding them, but I regret that decision now. I wish I would've allowed my photos to inspire other women to take part in their own session...so now, I am doing it here. I had the album given to my husband on our wedding morning and he was shocked! I'd say that's a good way to start your marriage ; )

I know you're ready to see why I love Heather's work so much. You can see some of her boudoir sessions here, here, and here. Then head over to Heather's blog and portfolio and check out all of her work. Just go for it and contact her already! You will thank me later! :)

If you don't live in the St. Louis area and are still interested in doing a boudoir session, email me and we will find a photographer in your area! And if you've already had your boudoir photos taken, comment below and tell me about your experience!

Fall Engagement Session: Julie & Scott

2013-01-25T10:48:00.002-06:00

I am not going to lie, wedding photos are my guilty pleasure. Good or bad, I could look through the albums for hours, discovering all the little details that make every wedding unique.
A close second to the wedding album are the engagement photos. With the right photographer, these images tell the story of each, individual couple. It's an opportunity for ~~Facebook stalkers~~ outsiders (and even friends and family) to catch a glimpse of what makes your relationship work and how the two of you mesh together. That's why, to end this week, I've chosen to share a collection of engagement photos that showcase the best of this beautiful couple.

After meeting at the Kentucky Derby and dating close to 18 months, Scott & Julie were engaged in 2011 on Christmas morning.

This past September, the couple joined Denver photographer, Gino Siller for engagement photos at Lone Hawk Farms in Boulder. The lovely autumn backdrop combined with the perfect country props hint to the couple's rustic-chic wedding theme. Siller so perfectly showcases the couple's carefree personalities and love for one another (and their pups) in this magazine-worthy combination of images!

The two will tie the knot in August among the breathtaking mountain views in Breckenridge, Colorado.

Wanna see more? Go check out Gino Siller's blog for more of his gorgeous work and stay tuned for a wedding recap on this couple's wedding at the end of this year!

Would you like to see your wedding or engagement featured on All Tulled Up? Email me at AllTulledUp{at}gmail{dot}com for more information!

*Photo Credits for all images to Gino Siller Photography*

7 Secrets of Gracious Brides & Grooms

2013-01-23T13:30:00.003-06:00

Believe it or not, it's not that uncommon to read in a bridal magazine or online forum about guests not receiving thank you cards (in a timely manner or at all) or even having time to visit with the bride and groom. Awful, right?

Although your wedding day is a celebration of your marriage, the celebration, itself, would be lacking without the attendance of your guests. Don't be that couple. Make each and every person feel like your guest of honor with ease!

Give a Quick Speech: After your you and your wedding party have been announced and seated, take a moment to stand up and thank your guests for coming. It doesn't have to be long or Oscar-worthy, just make sure that you both say a few words of gratitude to kick off the party!

Source: Uploaded by user via Mon Amie on Pint eres t

Leave a Note: When arranging your favors, think about adding a printed, personal "thank you" to your item(s). If tying a note onto your favor isn't an option, try handwriting one on a chalkboard at the gift or photo table, where guests will see it as they enter the reception.

Source: stylemepretty.com via Meaghan Shelton on Pinterest

Think Ahead: Taking "thank you" pictures at the wedding has become quite the common trend and for good reason! It saves you from choosing cards later and the photo serves as a memento for guests to keep. The options for this photo are endless! Involve you wedding party, use a handwritten sign, DIY a "thank you" banner in your wedding colors or simply choose your favorite photo and have your photographer add the words of your choice over the image in his/ her editing.

Source: stylemepretty.com via Meaghan Shelton on Pinterest

Make the Rounds: Although this may be an obvious one, it's not to be overlooked! All of your guests want a chance to talk with the newlyweds, so make it easy for them and visit each table at some point during the reception. If you really want to make your guests feel special, think about dining with them! I came across this idea on Wedding Bee discussion boards last year, where a couple left two open seats at each table on the seating chart and rotated tables during dinner.
Choose Thoughtful Favors: The wedding favor can either be a useful token of appreciation or a waste of your money. Choose an item that your guests will enjoy! Whether it's as simple as a coozy or as elaborate as a gift basket, keep it practical!

Source: greatweddingfavors.onsugar.com via Erin on Pinterest

Welcome Visitors: In the case of a destination wedding especially, hotel welcome bags are a must! Even for a local wedding, you will likely have guests traveling to your event and welcoming them at their hotel check-in with a bag of goodies will start their visit on the right foot! Fill the bags with snacks, water and local favorites. It is also a fabulous idea (though not mandatory) to invite out-of-towners to your rehearsal dinner.

Source: google.com.au via Kristy on Pinterest

Source: diy.weddingbee.com via Erin on Pinterest

Conquer the Cards: I know from personal experience how overwhelming your list of "thank you" cards to send can be! But the best way to attack the long list is to start right away. Before the wedding, send out a card immediately after receiving any gifts and cards! Once you've settled in after the honeymoon, make it a point to write a stack every day until you're finished.

Do you have any other tips you'd like to add to the list? Comment below and tell me what you think!