Erin Ax

Valentine's Day Gifts

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 19:13:00 +0000

Valentine's Day is right around the corner and I can't even believe it (time is flying!) Do you and your boyfriend/fiance/husband (I think I may just consider this BFH from now on!) do anything special? Are you a flower and chocolates kind of girl? I know I wouldn't mind flowers and an awesome dinner reservation. What are you plans and hopes for this Valentine's Day?

photo via

The Experience at Erin Ax Events

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 20:00:00 +0000

"I've found that when you combine the relaxing sounds of the ocean, the soft white sand beneath your bare feet, and a refreshing glass of crisp sauvignon blanc or sparkling soda, the stress of the day or week quickly fades away".

Jacqueline Whitmore

Poised for Success

I have been reading the book, Poised for Success, and it has truly opened my eyes in more ways then I had anticipated. It's made me realize what more I can be providing for my clients.

When I had made my list of things I had wanted my clients to remember me for, at the top of my list wasn't just creating an amazing wedding day, but creating an amazing planning experience.

I know that career stress paired with everyday life can get even the most organized and excited bride stressed out every now and again. But that's where I want to come in. I want to be an escape from all the stress and havoc life brings. Wouldn't you much rather enjoy planning your wedding over a latte at your most favorite cozy cafe, or maybe even over a tasty beverage on a warm summer day at the beach? THAT'S the experience I want to create. I want couples to look back on their wedding and the months leading up to it as the fun and exciting time that it actually is.

photo via

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 20:35:00 +0000

If you haven't found us on Pinterest, here we are!!

I have been on Pinterest for a bit of time now, but just recently got addicted to it. I've been trying to update it as frequently as I can with great wedding inspiration. As I was perusing through Style Me Pretty, I found this wedding which everyone seemed to love! Here are greater detail shots courtesy of 1313 Photography!

New Deal: Jamie Vitale Photography

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 21:02:00 +0000

We have a great new deal courtesy of Jamie Vitale Photography!

Details:

10 hours of photographic coverage

Second Photographer

Online proofing gallery

High resolution DVD

Engagement session

10x10 40 page coffee table book (holds 85-90 photos)

Original Price: $3,400.00

Deal: $3,200.00

*If you are interested in gathering further information about this package and your wedding day photography, please email Jamie at the email below and use EAPhotos in the subject line.

Website: www.jamievitale.com

Email: info@jamievitale.com

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"I’m Jamie, a New York based wedding, engagement, and lifestyle photographer. My passion is creating thoughtful and vibrant photographs that are as unique as the individuals and relationships they reflect!

On the day of your wedding or session, you can expect my shooting style to combine creative photojournalism and artistic direction. I will document all of the important moments as they unfold, and also highlight the decor, fashion, and details, that you put your heart into selecting. I strive to tell your complete story through a series of beautiful candid and composed images!"

Beach Engagement Shoot, Caroline Tran Photography

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 19:07:00 +0000

Loving this Caroline Tran engagement shoot. The gorgeous blanket and those beautiful throw pillows added that perfect touch to this already adorable shoot.

Ideal Client and Relationships

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 21:38:00 +0000

I was prompted to write this post after several eye openers today. I had a coffee date with a dear friend and vendor, then read ltdLIVE on the train ride home, to then find myself seeing this post by Emily Ley.

As a business owner doing it all on my own, branding and finding my ideal client has definitely taken not only trial and error, but years of figuring out what it is I don't want. Today I believe I am ready to acknowledge who it is I am trying to reach.

"My ideal client and friend is in her mid to late twenties, and believes in clean, understated elegance. She pairs J.Crew cashmere with a Tory Burch clutch, and enjoys her lattes in a venti cup. Her planner that manages her busy and fulfilling life is neatly tucked into her Louis Vuitton never full alongside her iPhone, lip gloss, and sunglasses. She knows how get gussied up in her little black dress for a candle lit evening, but still adores her ripped jeans and baseball tee when attending a sporting event with her fiance. She loves Sunday meetings over mimosa's and brunch, and casual coffee dates with friends and loved ones (pastries included). She appreciates and believes in thoughtful, hand written notes, and is always the first to send a birthday card. She is decisive while still being open to being inspired. She understands the true meaning of friendship, and knows that life is too short to cry over spilled milk."

"“She” doesn’t exist as a REAL person, rather the description of her describes who I want as part of my life – professionally or personally". Perfectly put by Ms Emily herself.

After having done this today, I am ready and willing to shape my brand, communications, collateral, and interactions to attract and connect with "her". I look forward to meeting her (and you).

Dessert

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 22:38:00 +0000

I find that no matter what I eat for dinner, I always have room for dessert. This banana caramel loaf is perfect to serve after a tasty meal. Do you ever make a special dessert for you and your fiance/husband? What's your favorite?

Ingredients:

Williams Sonoma Banana Caramel Mix

1 stick of butter

1 cup of water

2 eggs

Directions:

Combine mix, melted butter, water, and beaten eggs into a bowl and mix until all is combined and there are no lumps.

Pour mix into loaf pan, which has been greased and lightly floured.

Pop in the oven for 50-60 minutes

Now for the Rum Glaze. Simply combine:

1 cup confectioners sugar

2 tbs of milk

1 tbs dark rum

1 tsp vanilla extract

Whip together until smooth

Bridal Bouquets

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 19:28:00 +0000

{photo via style me pretty}

I love soft and neutral bouquets. I feel like they are simple and stunning while not taking away from the details of a dress (brides and bridesmaids a like). What are your favorite types of bouquets?

Winter Wedding

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 19:35:00 +0000

Alison Conklin Photography

I know that winter wedding's in the tristate area don't get all that much love, but the snow can be such a gorgeous detail to any wedding photo. I also love the warm feeling that you get from that last photo collage. I would have been one happy guest at that wedding!

Maggie Harkov, NYC Photographer

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 16:38:00 +0000

With this weekends pending snow storm, I felt this photo shoot was a shoe in! As you all may now, Maggie is one of my all time favorites (I'm sure you can see why!) Her photos are always amazing and her couples always look so comfortable in front of the camera. And these photos make me realize, snow isn't always bad!

Brownberry Sunless Tanning

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 15:38:00 +0000

Whether your getting married, in a wedding, attending a wedding, or are just plain old pale- this is the perfect article for you. I had the pleasure of getting insider sunless tan tips from one of New York's best. Meredith Fish, owner of Brownberry NYC, answers our most frequently asked spray tanning questions.

Erin: How many days before [a wedding] should I start?

Meredith: Everyone's skin is different so I always suggest a trial first. That

way you can see exactly how you like the color the 1st, 2nd, 3rd day

post-application and best determine when to book before the big day.

Erin: What prep do I need before hand?

Meredith: Shower, lightly exfoliate (don't want to dry out your skin as you

shouldn't apply any lotions prior to application), and do any waxing

beforehand.

Erin: How do I make sure it won't rub off on my wedding dress?

Meredith: Be sure to use a clear solution and test it out beforehand by wearing

a white shirt once you've showered off the formula the next day or so.

Not all solutions are created equal!

Erin: How do I ensure even application?

Meredith: Go to a professional who can apply/customize the color for you! Booths

are riskier. It's worth the splurge for your wedding day.

Erin: How long does it typically last?

Meredith: A quality spray tan will last 5-8 days. You also can preserve your

color by moisturizing, avoiding exfoliating creams and not spending

too much time in the pool, shower, bath or excessively sweating at the

gym! A good indication of how long you hold a spray tan is similar to

how long you hold a bona fied suntan. Everyone skin exfoliation

process is different.

Thank you so much Meredith!!

Styled NYC Photo Shoot

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 22:25:00 +0000

Ahh. New York City. The best city in the world.

Photos by Forever Photography

Date Night: 508 Restaurant and Bar, NYC

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 15:18:00 +0000

508 seems like a great place to escape to after work for a few drinks and yummy bites. Their menu is delicious and atmosphere is incredibly cozy. All the candle light and posh decor creates the most perfect date night feel.

New Deal: Suite 201- Expired

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 18:13:00 +0000

I am very excited to announce that we will now be offering deals on the Erin Ax Blog! I thought there would be no better way to kick things off than with a little retail therapy with Suite 201.

Whether you have bridal showers to attend or bachelorette parties to enjoy, Suite 201 is the boutique for you.

Enjoy 15% off your online or in store purchase by either presenting this ad at time of payment in store or enter "SUITE15" online in your shopping bag before checkout.

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Suite 201 Blog

Suite 201 is located in the heart of downtown Ridgewood, NJ and is owned by Stylist and Buyer; Alina Leshiner. Suite 201 reflects Alina's own personal style and is infused with LA fashion influences. Beachy West Coast lines mixed in with East Coast edge makes Suite 201 an easy, diverse and fun place to shop. A constant at the store, Alina does all of the buying and styling, bringing in unique lines not found in the larger department stores, make Suite 201 a true specialty boutique. Her personal relationships with her longtime and loyal client base and rapid rise in the business is a testament to her reputation as a leader in the industry.

Entertaining Favorites

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 19:42:00 +0000

Even though the holidays are over, it's still the season for cozy nights with friends at home. Here are some of favorite entertaining details that really make a party.

. Walking into a house that smells like something amazing is in the oven

. Welcoming your guests with a beverage already prepared when they walk in

. Having enough seating for everyone to sit and be comfortable

. Playing a really fun and sometimes ridiculous play list that you know will start hysterical conversation

. Having delicious finger foods in the area's your guests will be spending the most time in already out and ready to eat when they arrive.

Sunny Weddings

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 21:06:00 +0000

jill thomas photography

How many of you opted for outdoor weddings? Was it sunny? The crazy NJ/NYC is always a concern of mine when planning outdoor affairs. Share you wedding weather story here!

Little Surprises

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 20:32:00 +0000

{photo via}

Have you ever come home from a long day of work to see that your fiance has already made dinner? Or maybe your week feels like years and your fiance sent flowers to your office to cheer you up? What little surprises has he done that have totally made your day?

Caroline Joy Photography, Engagement Shoot

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 14:48:00 +0000

I feel in love with this engagement session from the second I saw it. The soft light is just so gorgeous. Not to mention, Caroline is a fellow MTH member, so you know her work is amazing! =)

Valentine's Day Stationery

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 21:36:00 +0000

I mean... come on. Rifle Paper is the best. I am loving the postcard with those amazing edges and the mail man! How cleaver!?

Honeymoon Hot Spot: Hotel Imperiale- Sicily, Italy

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 19:00:00 +0000

Hotel Imperiale

This Sicily hotel is right up my alley. The gorgeous views and amazing pool deck usually are top sellers in my book, but everything about this hotel is amazing. Wouldn't you agree?

Blood Orange French 75 Cocktail

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 17:21:00 +0000

Whether you are heading out for a date night, or you are having friends over to your place, be sure to try this Champagne-Gin cocktail, the Blood Orange French 75. If your making it at home, find the recipe here!

Engagement Shoot, Ryan Ray Photography

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 16:41:00 +0000

Now this is one classy shoot. Everything from their outfits, to the settings, to their positioning. The photo that initially drew me in was the one with that striped background. How stunning?

Ryan Ray Photography

Date Night, The Standard Grill NYC

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 16:34:00 +0000

I have heard some really amazing things about The Standard Grill. All of their menu's look so tasty (especially their cocktail menu. I'll take a The Standard 69, please!) and it is on my list of must try's for the new year!

Jill Thomas Photography, California Wedding

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 18:46:00 +0000

Jill Thomas gets it right every time. Her photos can practically make feel the warmth of the California sun.

The design of this wedding is absolutely delightful. It's simple, clean, and gorgeous. I love the color scheme and wish NJ could get away with as many perfect outdoor weddings!

Cooking For Two, Linguine With Crab

noreply@blogger.com (Erin) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 20:30:00 +0000

How tasty (and healthy, might I add) does this Linguine with Crab, Lemon, Chile and Mint look? If some of your New Years resolutions were to cook at home more (to help save for the wedding!) and to be a bit more healthy, you've come to the right place.

I found this recipe on Bon Appetit, and it looks too delicious not to share. Follow the directions here and you'll end up with an amazing meal for two!

Ingredients:

8 ounces linguine

Kosher salt

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

1/4 cup minced shallots

1 teaspoon minced garlic

1–2 Fresno chiles, red jalapeños, or red Thai chiles, seeded, sliced into thin rounds

1 1/2 tablespoons (or more) fresh lemon juice, divided, plus 2 teaspoons (packed) finely grated lemon zest, divided

Freshly ground black pepper

8 ounces cooked, shelled Dungeness crab, king crab, or jumbo lump crabmeat, picked over for shells

1/3 cup fresh mint leaves, gently torn, divided