Matrimonial Meg

It's Been Awhile

2011-06-30T20:44:00.000-05:00

For all three of you that aren't related to me and actually read this, I apologize for such a long absence and such spotty posting! I will get back to it as soon as I fix my computer in the next couple of weeks.

Hugs to all of you who have been following me, I haven't forgotten about the blog.

In fact I have some fun things to share with you as soon as I can post again, including pictures from my engagement photo shoot. We had a lot of fun and I think they turned out great!

Have a wonderful fourth of July!

Cupcakes!

2011-06-02T20:27:00.000-05:00

The trend that won't die. And why should it? Cupcakes for a wedding are easier to serve, you can have plenty of flavors, and the displays are SO CUTE!

I love these tiny treats, and will glad;y indulge in one at any wedding.

Cupcakes and Cake Pops!

These are so detailed... gorgeous!

Love is Your Color

2011-05-26T10:50:00.001-05:00

One of the first recorded accounts of an engagement ring was in 1477 when the Archduke Maximilian of Austria presented Mary of Burgundy with a diamond ring 24 hours before their wedding. This introduced a tradition that has spanned several centuries and continents.

For the next 400 years, diamonds were only a luxury for the extremely wealthy, because diamond mines weren't discovered in South Africa until 1870, making diamonds even more rare than today. Because of this, the engagement ring of choice for very many was a colored stone. Long before lab created stones, rings were set with precious and semi precious jewels to signify love and commitment.

Along with many of our ancestors, hundreds of European royals choose sapphires, rubies, emeralds, and aquamarines for their engagement.

Whether you're looking for finger coverage on a budget, or hoping for something different than the ever common diamond, a colored stone engagement ring is surely something to consider. Now, enough of my blabbing.. on to the eye candy!

Aquamarine and diamond baguette ring made by Daniel M Jewelry

Stunning Leon Mege custom-made yellow diamond ring. For sale on consignment at Jewels by Erica Grace.

This beauty is a Single Stone creation, with a breathtaking sapphire center stone.

This one is too beautiful for words. A mahenge spinel set in Jewels by Erica Grace's Kylie halo. Look at that color!

Leon Mege Emerald and diamond three stone ring. Drooling yet?

Here Comes the Mother of the Bride

2011-05-09T09:11:00.000-05:00

Oops. I'm a day late! I meant to post this yesterday, but I was busy spending time with my wonderful momma.. Anyway, in honor of Mother's Day I wanted to post a few adorable mother of the bride dresses. Finding a cute and appropriate MOB dress can be more difficult than finding the wedding gown. Today I'm featuring looks from Sarah Danielle, Caterina, Siri, and Val Stefani. I hope all of you moms had a wonderful day yesterday, you deserve it!

Obsessed

2011-05-05T20:24:00.002-05:00

I am seriously in love with this post from Benign Objects, so I had to share.

Oh.. And Did I Forget to Mention?

2011-05-05T18:16:00.000-05:00

I'm sitting here, watching Grease play on ABC family and about to click submit to another blog post, when I realized I haven't blogged about the very exciting news in my life!

You see, I've been obsessed with weddings since I was a kid. In 8th grade we could write a research paper on any subject, and I chose the History of Wedding Traditions. I know, I know. I'm a total freak! It's been such a joy to help brides and their families with planning their weddings, and it's something I hope to do for a very long time. I even told my mom once, or twice, when I was younger that I thought the perfect proposal was to be all dressed up and on a bridge. Who does that?

So a couple of months ago when my handsome boyfriend went to talk to my parents, my mom said, "You know you have to find a bridge, right?"

Somehow all of this was lost on me, as I was wandering around the Botanic Gardens on Easter Sunday with my sister's, boyfriend, and brother in law. You see, they had convinced me that we should take pictures for Mother's Day at the gardens and have them framed for a gift. I was not even cluing in to the fact that something was up when we were standing right in the middle of a bridge taking a couple of posed pictures in our Sunday best. It wasn't until that wonderful man handed me a little purple Easter basket with an egg inside that I realized something was going on. The egg rattled, and my hands started to shake. LUCKILY it was just a jelly bean inside, because that ring would have hit the bridge! But he was down on one knee, and said some wonderfully sweet things that I don't remember. That's the thing no one ever tells you-- I haven't the faintest idea what he said. I was so excited it all went in one ear and out the other.Well, I forgot everything except that all important question, "Will you marry me?" Of course I said yes, and was treated to a limo ride home to an Easter brunch with family and friends.

I'm spoiled rotten, huh?

So anyway, now I not only get to help other brides, I'm also getting to plan my very own wedding! It's been great so far and we are so excited. Look for pictures next spring! Until then, I'll give you all a picture of the bling, because that's all anyone cares about!

Would You Like a Spot of Tea?

2011-04-29T07:05:00.001-05:00

I've been up since 4am to watch the Royal Wedding coverage. I think I could use more than one cup of tea to get me through the rest of today.

Was that wedding beautiful, or what? I loved seeing all of the funky hats, but the most wonderful part was the anticipation leading up to Kate's arrival.

There had been so much speculation of what her gown would be. I myself had always thought it would be a full skirt, like she had, but I wasn't convinced it would be lace. What a pleasant surprise, it was. Her gown, designed by Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen was reminiscent of one of my favorite gowns of all time-- Grace Kelly's. Hopefully this is a sign for the return of the lace sleeve wedding gown.

Kate MIddleton's incredible gown.

Grace Kelly, in 1956.

The music, Westminster Abbey, a prince, it could not have been more of a fairytale. Kate Middleton was so composed and regal. I would have been a giggling buffoon, had I been in her shoes.

I will remember this morning for the rest of my life! I sat in my living room with a robe and a tiara, nearly brought to tears by the marvelous ceremony. My phone is nearly dead from the frantic text messaging I did with family and friends. I think Twitter may explode!

What a morning!

Now, how will I get on with the rest of my day? My life now seems dull and common!

Retro Cocktails

2011-04-12T20:41:00.000-05:00

Signature cocktails are a great way to mix up the regular wine and beer options, without footing the bill for a fully open bar. After a trip to The Usual in Fort Worth, I'm convinced the best spirits for a vintage inspired reception are Prohibition Era cocktails.

My favorite mixed drink in the world, the Moscow Mule, was also a top choice for my grandfather. It's pretty, tastes great, and packs quite the punch.

Moscow Mule

It calls for 1 ounce of vodka, 1tsp sugar, fresh lime juice, fresh mint, and 1/2 a cup of ginger beer. A lime is the perfect garnish.

One of the more popular and delicious drinks is the Sidecar. You'll need cognac, Cointreau, and lemon juice shaken over ice. Rumor has it this drink has origins in France, but it was still all of the rage back when it wasn't allowed to be.

Sidecar

For your whiskey lovers, it's hard to say no to an Old Fashioned. This delectable cocktail has 2 oz of bourbon, 2 dashes bitters, 1 splash of water, 1 tsp sugar, a maraschino cherry and an orange wedge to garnish. Drink up!

Old Fashioned

You Can Never Have Too Many Aprons

2011-03-31T21:18:00.001-05:00

Still haven't found the best idea for your bridesmaids, mothers, or shower gifts? I have a thought for you! A few weeks ago, I went to the Cowgirl Hall of Fame in Fort Worth, TX to see the Apron Chronicles exhibit. I was really excited, because I've started quite the collection of my own. The exhibit is very unique and interesting, a great way to spend time with my mother and aunt. Hung across the ceilings are countless vintage aprons. Along the walls are stories from men and women, young and old, sharing American tales of aprons and the people who wore them. We even got to try on a few beautiful aprons ourselves...

Anyway, maybe it was the fact that I received a sewing machine the night before, maybe there were too many adorable combinations, but an idea popped into my head! Make each of your bridesmaids their very own, personalized aprons. Use their favorite colors, concepts, or trimmings.

For your eco-friendly mate, use recycled fabrics. If you have a girly girl for a friend, cover hers with lace and frills. They are bound to be something that the women in your life will love for years to come.f.

If you live in Fort Worth, this weekend the museum is having a soiree to celebrate the end of the exhibit. Bring the women in your life, grandmothers, cousins, and best friends, and go check out some incredible American history.

It's a Nice Day for a White Wedding

2011-03-25T07:35:00.001-05:00

Remember, if you go all white, the detail has to be in the textures and lines. This can be a really modern and beautiful look, but only when it's done well.

The Four Seasons

2011-03-24T18:36:00.001-05:00

Ask Meg

2011-03-10T19:19:00.001-06:00

I have had so many readers send me questions about these darling shoes from my Mellow Yellow post in December.

While the originals are discontinued, I can help you find an almost identical look.

First, get this pair of Benjamin Walk shoes called Flash. If the heel is to high, they have a few very similar options with less height.

Then head over to my favorite website, Etsy, and get these perfect yellow shoe clips. You have the a very similar look for a fraction of the price!

For more questions, e-mail me at matrimonialmeg@gmail.com

Cheers!

2011-03-04T20:12:00.001-06:00

A friend of mine found these too-cute personalized wine glasses on Etsy, they are such fun bridesmaid gifts! FizzyArtist will personalize wine glasses, champagne flutes, beer pilsners, low-balls, martini glasses, coffee mugs, and more! Send her pictures of you and your girls, or just give her general descriptions. They can be in your bridesmaids favorite colors or use the hues for your wedding!

These are just right for sipping mimosas while having your hair done or toasting at a bachelorette party.

Don't forget the boys! Order Beer glasses with your last name and wedding date for your groomsmen.

So you and your fiance don't feel left out, you have have some too! These would also be fun gifts to give to another bride and groom.

For pure entertainment value, I think these are rather amusing.

I'm off to the liquor store to buy a bottle of Pino Grigio and have a girls night in. Happy Friday to you, and don't forget to check out FizzyArtist on etsy! I think her custom wine glasses may make excellent birthday gifts, too.

My Best Friend's Wedding

2011-02-25T22:44:00.001-06:00

Back in December, my older sister, Katie, got hitched. I've been holding out on you, and I know you're dying to see the goods! All photographs are courtesy of Mike Lewis, a fantastic photographer located in the Dallas Ft. Worth metroplex.

Katie had always talked about having a December wedding. Our church, First United Methodist Church of Ft. Worth has always been beyond beautiful during the holiday season, and as a child Katie thought there was no place more lovely to get married than in the sanctuary during Christmas. When we went dress shopping, a dress was absolutely a NO if it didn't work with her gorgeous white faux-fur stole and right off the bat we knew her colors would be red, gold, and green.

Mike had a perfect idea for Katie's wedding gift to Chase. Minutes before the wedding, he received a framed photo from Katie's bridal portraits, that left him still completely clueless to what she would look like as a bride.

Our mother's dress was custom made by Moe at The Bridal Showroom in Oklahoma City. Looking for a MOB dress can be a nightmare, her dress ended up being exactly what she was looking for.

All florals and centerpieces were created by Out of the Garden in Grapevine, Tx. Tucked into the bride's bouquet was lace from her maternal grandmother's wedding gown and a vintage brooch.

The reception was held at The Ashton Hotel in downtown Fort Worth. They were incredibly accommodating and created an unforgettable memory.


Their first dance was to "You Are the Sunshine of My Life."


Since we were kids, we've always danced around the living room or kitchen to "All I Want for Christmas Is You." Katie and my dad decided there wasn't a better song for their father daughter dance. There wasn't a dry eye in the house!

With such rigorous dance moves, her bustle broke. Always, always, always have safety pins on hand!!

Chase's dance with his mother was cut short...


For a Louisiana "Second Line" led by the bride, groom, and mother of the groom to "When the Saints Go Marching In" You don't know fun until you've second lined!


Maids of Honor.. Practice your toast. You're bound to get weepy and nervous and forget the whole thing, like I did!

On the Way, a band out of Dallas entertained the wedding party and guests for the rest of the night. We really know how to party!

Never underestimate the cuteness of a ring bearer.

Bad News

2011-02-24T21:26:00.000-06:00

Bad news, blog friends! I had a huge computer crash, and lost all of my data.

I'll be back and posting soon, I have some really fun things I can't wait to share!

Drive By Post

2011-02-13T21:30:00.001-06:00

I'm watching the Grammy's as I type, so I don't have time for a full fledged post. I was browsing my favorite website, Mod Cloth, drooling over their dresses, and I found this gorgeous gown that I had to put on here. Perfect for a small wedding or rehearsal dinner, no?

Countdown to Valentine's Day

2011-02-10T19:14:00.000-06:00

I can't wait until Valentine's Day-- though probably not for the same reasons you're thinking (although I am looking forward to spending some quality time with my main squeeze.. :-P) What I can't wait for is the unveiling of BHLDN.

Anthropologie and Urban Outfitters teamed up together for a line of wedding gowns and you can view them starting February 14th.

These won't be your typical Maggie Sottero's. They will be much more vintage inspired, with hand made detailing. The dresses will be less perfect and therefor more unique and Bohemian.

Here's a little teaser of what is to come!

Invitations, Invitations, Invitations!

2011-02-09T15:45:00.002-06:00

The first glimpse your guests will have of your wedding will be the day they open up an envelope and see your invitation. It should be indicative of the level of formality of your wedding, as well as provide some idea of what the overall feel of the big day will be.

Before you even begin looking at invitations, I suggest creating your guest list. Please, keep in mind that couples and families count as one invitation. As a guideline, expect for every 100 guests to have 60 invitations. Obviously, this number can fluctuate if you are inviting several singles or large families. It is also suggested to order 20 percent more than you think you will need. As the day gets closer you could realize you forgot someone or have a few last minute invitations you want to send. It's also good to allow yourself a few mistakes.

Whether you begin on the internet, or in a stationery store, the best way to start is to just look at examples. Do you want something more traditional, whimsical, modern, or themed? Browsing in person is the best way to do it, because you can see the true colors, textures, and sizes.

Picking the invitation can be frustrating. There are so many options! Bring your fiance with you to look at the invitation books, it's a fun part of the planning for him to be involved. While looking at them, be aware that the font can change, the font color can change, and the wording can as well. You cannot change paper size, color, or decorative details. If you are very specific, it may be best to go custom. Keep in mind, while you won't know the exact postage until they are completely assembled, budget for postage as well. An oversized invitation or something with a bow or other three dimensional detail will cost more to send.

Check and double check the spelling of names, the correct addresses, and times. It is also best to be sure what your parents and his parents want to be called. While some women are content to be Mrs. John Doe, others would be outraged, so don't take the chance of offending, and get their names right!

Try to order your invitations 4-6 months before the wedding. Not only do they take time to be printed, it can also take a few weeks for them to be addressed. Do not, I repeat, do not use sticky labels for your wedding invitations! It is best to have them hand addressed. If you would like to order matching thank you notes, now is the time to do it. You can usually save money by ordering everything at once.

Be aware that if you do not list a person on the inside envelope, they are not considered to be invited. Also, be aware, plenty of guests may not appreciate this rule and you may be faced with pesky RSVPs for more than you had invited. How you choose to deal with this is up to you, but it is not considered rude to call your cousin Joe and tell him that while you would love to meet his girlfriend, unfortunately the reception hall will already be at capacity. To avoid this issue altogether, on the response card you could print it with:

We have reserved __ seats for you (you fill this part in!)
M_________________________
__ Joyfully accepts
__Sadly, must decline
__ Number attending

Please, please, please do not include your registry information ANYWHERE on your invitation or in the envelope. It's considered extremely poor taste and gift-grabby. Your guests can find about your registry through your wedding website, shower invitations, or good old fashioned word of mouth.

Once you have your invitations addressed and assembled, take one to the post office to figure out the correct postage. There is no use purchasing stamps until you know exactly how much each invitation will cost.

While sending out the invitations can be a little bit of work and slightly stressful, be sure to have fun! Have an assembling party with family or your bridesmaids. Provide wine and snacks (kept far from the precious paper) and have a good time.

Remember, these are a true expression of you, your fiance, and your wedding day, so choose something that reflects that!

Looking for Shoes?

2011-02-04T08:14:00.000-06:00

Anyone who knows me in real life knows that I love shoes! I was that girl that pranced around my three story high school in four inch heels. So if anyone understands a bride's need for amazing shoes on her wedding day, it's me.

While reading a magazine, I came across a snippet about this website-- and I'm hooked. My Shoes is a search engine for shoes. You can browse by color, heel height, price, details, brands, and style. If you find a shoe you like, they then direct you to where on the web you can find it, what details you need to know about shipping and returns, and if there are any coupon codes available.

For those of you having trouble finding the perfect pair of 3-inch satin D'Orsay pumps, look no further.

I, for one, am going to have to put away the credit card and step away from the beautiful shoes!

Bargain Blooms

2011-02-01T14:30:00.000-06:00

Flowers don't always have to be spendy. In fact, some blossoms have a bad rap for being cheap, even though they are still beautiful when done the right way.

Look at these carnations. Simple, feminine, and they won't break the bank.

Baby's breath is not desirable in a vase of red roses, but when you have a spray of just baby's breath it can be incredible. Perfect for a winter wedding or an outdoor and rustic affair.

Just right for summer and fall weddings, sunflowers are fun and striking, and they also come with a little price tag.

If you want something with great height and drama, gladiolus is a gorgeous bloom. When done well, they can be wonderful.

Do Ya Guys Want Some Cookies??

2011-01-26T21:30:00.000-06:00

Sorry for the terrible Corky Romano reference there.. I couldn't help myself! I have a quick little "treat" tonight, for a fun reception drink. Toward the end of the reception, have the servers pass around milk and cookie shooters. You can have some non-alcoholic with plain milk, a chocolate rim, and a cookie on top, and a grown up version that adds Kahlua to the mix.

No one can say no to America's favorite snack.

Sample Sales

2011-01-25T19:42:00.000-06:00

Whether you're getting married in a time crunch, have champagne taste on a beer budget, or need an inexpensive dress for a trash the dress photoshoot, sample sales are the place for you to shop.

Many boutiques have sample sales once or twice a year to make room for new merchandise and get rid of discontinued styles. Be on the lookout on facebook, in newspaper or radio ads, or at bridal fairs.

When you are shopping for a sample gown, you need to look out for a few things. Minor stains are one thing, but avoid dresses that are discolored. A lot of small flaws, like loose beading or a few missing buttons are one thing, gaping holes are another. Be sure to shop close to your size. A size 12 cannot be altered to a size 2, the proportions will just be off.

At most sample sales all sales will be final. Most will also allow only cash or credit-- don't bring a check. Also, be aware that you will more than likely have to purchase the dress at the full price and leave with it. Many stores that offer credit programs for regular orders will not do so for sample sales.

You can find some stellar dresses at awesome prices, they are 100% worth checking out. The Bridal Boutique in Norman, Oklahoma is starting one tomorrow. There's quite the selection, with incredible prices-- I highly suggest going! As I hear of any other sample sales throughout the area, I'll be sure to update you, my readers!

Don't Miss This!!

2011-01-20T11:44:00.000-06:00

So, I've mentioned before the ever fabulous website Rue LaLa.. Well today they have multiple wedding related boutiques! From wedding gowns to cake cutters, this is a sale that you don't want to miss out on!

If you are not already a member of Rue La La, just click my invitation link, and join in the fun. Happy shopping!

Who can say no to these beautiful shoes??

Fit For a Queen

2011-01-18T17:52:00.000-06:00

Over the weekend, I went to see The King's Speech and I must tell you it was phenomenal. Helena Bonham Carter looks gorgeous throughout the entire movie, and her accessories were to die for. She plays the Queen consort to Colin Firth's King George VI during the 1930's and the costuming department did an excellent job in the film.

Afterward I began perusing the internet, looking for some Queen Elizabeth inspired adornments for brides, and I'm sharing my findings with you.

First up, this incredible Edward Berger lace pill box hat with a Russian netting accent would be unforgettable.

Shopjaxie on Etsy is a great store to look for veils and headpieces. I am drooling over this gorgeous birdcage veil.

Vintage gloves would add a touch of glam to any ensemble inspired from days past. I love these lace gloves from the 1950's, also found on etsy.

Another fabulous find is this pair of fingerless gloves from the 1950's. Could they be any cuter?

Now, to finish off the look, you would definitely need several strands of layered pearls. Blue Nile has great prices for the real deal, like this triple strand of baroque pearls for $185.

With all of these accessories, I think the dress should be a little simpler, and probably short. If you can't find a true vintage gown, look into an ivory or white bridesmaids dress, such as this one from Jordan.

As you walk down the aisle, dressed absolutely to perfection, you're sure to make your groom stammer.

Don't Be An Elizabeth Taylor

2011-01-13T20:11:00.001-06:00

It is often said that if a couple spent as much time preparing for the marriage as they do for their wedding, they would be in much better shape. It is incredibly important to equip yourselves for a lifetime together and to ask yourselves important questions and learn coping skills for when times get tough. You've been learning from relationships your whole life-- why stop just as you are embarking on the most important one of all?

Often, churches offer couples counseling, and some even require it prior to marriage. It's a wonderful platform for an outsider to ask questions that you possibly haven't thought of before, learn communication skills, and gain some tools for the years ahead. For those in the state of Oklahoma, there is a great workshop called "Forever. For Real." It's a free workshop, and if you attend all eight sessions, they will pay $45 of your Oklahoma marriage license. Now, for my friends close to taking a trip down the aisle in Texas, please look into "Twogether in Texas." Those that complete a course there get $60 toward a Texas marriage license. The way I see it, you have nothing to lose! If you can make time for cake testing, you can certainly make time to attend these.

Just think, if Elizabeth Taylor had put this much effort into her marriages, maybe she wouldn't have been a bride eight times!

Happily married Aimee and Antonio