The Ink Spot

Gerber Daisy Guest Book

2008-07-04T15:25:00.004-04:00

For those brides searching for gerber daisy goodness, I found this beautiful guestbook over on Etsy from "Special Occasions Custom Event Favors and Accessories".

I love the brilliant colors- the price is great (only $25 plus shipping!) Check it out at this link.

Ch-ch-ch-changes!

2008-07-01T17:25:00.002-04:00

I'm so excited!! After months of having a desk in my bed room (since renamed the "boffice") and cutters on my dining room table, and another small room devoted solely to paper and bridal show goodies- I am getting my own office. We're turning a very sad, not really utilized porch into a beautiful room all of my own!!! Because I'm consolidated, I've got some goodies to sell. So if you're a DIY bride, paper lover or just want some cool stuff, hop on over to this page at our site. I am completely willing to make a deal- so if you want a lot of stuff, let me know and I'll see what I can do.

I'll probably be posting other items soon- I know I'll have a rotary cutter up for grabs (a very nice, but no longer used Fiskars 12"). E-mail soon for the best selection!

Something Blue...

2008-07-01T08:38:00.005-04:00

"Something Blue" is another one of our favorites from this spring. This custom invitation features a 5x5 "Zircon" pocketfold, bronze backing and a bird and tree motif that we plan on carrying through to the programs and placecards. The birds add a touchy of whimsy to the seal on the front and the invitation itself.

If you'd like to learn more about this design- feel free to contact us (info[at]lassodmoondesigns.com). We'll be posting it on our website soon, but wanted to give our readers a sneak peek!

My Summer Guilty Pleasure...

2008-06-28T10:05:00.003-04:00

I'm admittedly a TV junkie. And summertime drives me crazy because there's not much quality television on. But, we started watching "So You Think You Can Dance" (which "American Idol" could take some cues from voting wise). And I'm totally hooked. I've never loved a dance routine as much as I love this one from this past week:

So, if you need something to watch- check it out on Wednesdays. There's a ton of other great dancers that we love too- but something about this one...Enjoy!!

A New Invitation: "Summertime"

2008-06-27T09:19:00.004-04:00

We've done so many invitations this spring at Lasso'd Moon Designs, but this one has got to be one of our favorites (ok, I do love them all, but something about this particular invitation is really eye catching). We've dubbed this invitation "Summertime". A grass green pocketfold, a little paisley and a touch of orange really just scream fresh, new and fun. As we said in our invitation trends article below, don't be afraid to use color- you'll end up with something fabulous that will really make your invitation stand out from the rest.

For more information- feel free to contact us at info{at}lassodmoondesigns.com (to avoid spam, we haven't hotlinked this, but just do a copy and paste and make sure to remove the {at} and replace it with @- I know, I know, you probably already knew that, but just in case ;) ).

How Airlines May Affect Your Wedding

2008-06-25T09:11:00.000-04:00

Think the airline cutbacks won't affect you? Consider the following: the other day I was talking to a friend of mine in the industry who relayed the following stories. A couple getting married here in Vermont lost HALF of their wedding guests coming from California because their guests flights were cancelled the day before the wedding. There was no way and no time for them to find other flights. Out of 175 guests, there were something like 80 that couldn't come. A terrible situation for all involved, and there's no recourse. But, this may be a good time to check into wedding insurance to see if it would cover something like this, particularly if you have a lot of out of town guests coming and depending on airlines to get them here.

One wedding planner, Kawania of Howerton+Wooten Events, LLC in Maryland/DC area suggested and advised the following:

"1) Sit down with the hotel’s general manager and explain what happened. They may not get out of the fees all together, but the hotel may reduce it given the circumstances.

2) If the bride and groom get a sense that ½ of their wedding guests’ flights are going to be canceled early on, then they should let the all of the vendors know about the situation ASAP. Even though the issue is somewhat close to the wedding date, there is a slim chance that the hotel may be able to recover some of their money with new hotel reservations.

3) F&B – When it comes to the venue, bakers and/or caterers, it may be next to impossible to recoup the money lost because you only fed ½ of your wedding guests. These vendors order their ingredients based on the F&B guarantee – which is a minimum 72 hours prior to the event – And most of the client’s guests may not know about the travel delays until approximately 36 hours prior to the event. Going forward: Tell the venue to cook all of the food and allow a shelter to pick up the portion that is not going to get eaten. You may be able to get a tax right off. Check with the venue/caterer first since so many of them will not allow you to donate your uneaten food anymore.

4) Insurance – I think that insurance is going to be key going forward. Encourage your client to proactively work with their insurance agent for coverage. Especially, if they are planning a destination wedding and if most of their family members live in a second-tier city.

5) Other vendors – What happens if the photographer cannot get to the venue because of an airline cancellation? Do you still have to pay him?" Adding on to Kawania's thoughts, if any of your vendors are coming from out of town and are taking a flight- be sure to discuss what would happen should they not be able to get in to town because of a cancelled flight.

My friend's second story was a bit brighter, and a great alternative idea to flying- one couple with guests scattered across the United State had arranged for a Winnebago to bring her guests across country. As they are travelling from one coast to this one, they are picking up family along the way, splitting gas costs and basically having their own party along the way. They don't want to risk flights being cancelled last minute.

So, today's moral- if you have guests flying in, be prepared that something like this could happen. Check into wedding insurance to see if you would be covered by something like this, or encourage your guests to come earlier if possible, so in case their flights are cancelled, they might have time to find another. Or encourage a different method of transportation.

It's on RIGHT NOW!!

2008-06-23T19:35:00.003-04:00

"The Wedding Singer" is one of my favorite all time movies- and it's on RIGHT NOW on VH1. I seriously have a little obsession with this film. I will stop and watch it every time it comes on. No- I don't own it, because that takes some of the fun out of being like "Look what's on TV????" (It would be like owning Dr. Seuss' "How the Grinch Stole Christmas"- the cartoon version not the Jim Carrey crap version- it wouldn't be the same as waiting ALL YEAR for it to come on, because you know Christmas is around the corner, know what I mean?)

The following are the opening scenes and one of my favorite scenes- however, the second does contain swears so if you are sensitive to off-color language, you may want to skip it.

Mmmmm....

2008-06-21T15:22:00.002-04:00

It's officially summer and all I can say is yum!!

Stationery Trends for 2008

2008-06-19T13:00:00.001-04:00

I feel as if, as a stationer, I ought to touch base on some of the trends I've been seeing this year. There are no specific color trends (though I've seen some mention of gray and yellow, this has not hit Vermont yet), but the big thing this year is personalization. From colors to fonts to graphics, every one is doing their own thing. Invitations with trees have been huge this year (but, again, I'm in the Green Mountain State, so not surprising). I'm seeing tons of great color combinations, which I'll be posting pics of soon.

But mostly, brides are realizing that the invitation you choose really does set the tone for your event. A simple white invitation with a casual font might suggest to your guests that they don't need to dress up (even if they do). If this is the case- then mission accomplished. But if it's not, consider ways to dress up your invitation. Use a metallic or pearlized paper instead of plain white stock. Maybe add a backing of a bright, unexpected color. Consider your typeface as well. Fonts play a huge part in your invitation. An all caps font paired with a beautiful script for your names will suggest a more formal affair (popular combos, Trajan or Copperplate 32bc and Edwardian or Chopin Script). Add in a beautiful flourish and guests will begin to get the idea. If you can't find something you like, ask your stationer about designing or purchasing a graphic that can be used for any of your stationery and will be unique for you.

Ways to make your invitations stand out:

1- COLOR COLOR COLOR. Don't be afraid to try new combinations. And remember, it doesn't have to match your bridesmaids dresses exactly. Close enough will become "Oh, isn't that neat everything matched" in your guests memories.

2) Unique fonts and combinations- don't be afraid to experiment here either

3) custom designed graphics- damasks are hot right now

4) did I mention color?

5) carry your theme through to your reception- place and escort cards, table cards, menus, thank yous- whatever you might need, do it up in the same style.

6) do what YOU want, not what's expected (just because Mom doesn't like your more eco-friendly RSVP postcard doesn't mean you can't do it *sorry Moms* unless Mom is paying for it, in which case, that might be a battle you lose) RSVP postcards are hot and can be designed in all sorts of ways (it only needs to be within certain sizes for postal regulations)

7) provide guests with lots of information- if you're planning a weekend of events, why not include a "Things to DO" card, accommodation info and/or wedding website information (with even more goodies on it). You'll also avoid phone calls to you wondering if you can provide info with places to stay (imagine getting 50-60 of those)

8) Have fun with wording- especially on the RSVPs- some fun examples:

____Yes, we'll party 'til the cows come home

____Sorry, we're all partied out

(I do live in Vermont)

and

____Yes, evil ponies couldn't keep us away

____Sorry, we've heard the evil pony bites

(the bride's mom owned a pony, who, as you can guess, was evil and a biter, a big family joke)

Whatever you decide to do- let your personalities shine through and your guests will be chomping at the bit to come (pun intended!)

There's a Party Goin' On 'Round Here...

2008-06-19T10:00:00.002-04:00

So not only is there a party daily in my uterus (I'm just over 6 months pregnant for those just tuning in), today happens to be my wedding anniversary. 9 years, two kids (plus the one coming), two cats, a house, cars...we're probably the oldest 31 year olds in the US, LOL. But, we're happy and still together, and after 9 years, he's the person I still want to spend most of my time with. His uncanny ability to make me laugh, no matter the situation, amazes me.

Last Night's chuckle:

Me: "Come check out the party goin' on" *points to crazy, spazzing baby in my stomach*
Him:*after about thirty seconds* WHOA! You know what it's kind of like? It's kind of like when a cat climbs into a paper bag and you poke at the sides of the bag and it attacks the spot where you poked."
Me:*laughing* "Yep, that's exactly what it's like."

And then later:

Him: "Oh look what's on...the "Col-bear Re-por"

Yeah, I won't be living that down any time soon.

Mr. Sulu Gets a Wedding License

2008-06-18T19:52:00.004-04:00

For those of you who are trekkies of fans of "Heroes" you're probably familiar with George Takei (Mr. Sulu from the original "Star Trek" and Hiro's father on "Heroes"). Mr. Takei has been very open as of late about his sexuality and how excited he was about the gay marriage ban being lifted in California. When it went official Tuesday morning, Takei picked up his marriage license and told People.com "We are first and foremost beyond delighted! It's a landmark day."

Takei will wed his partner on September 14th. Congrats Mr. Sulu and to the many other couples who made their marriages official yesterday and who will be married in the upcoming months!!

Belly-Up Bridal Shop Leaves Brides Dress-less

2008-06-16T09:26:00.007-04:00

A bridal shop in Charlotte, NC, closed it's doors suddenly, leaving dozens of brides without their dresses or any recourse into recovering their money. The worst part? Many can see their dresses through the stores windows.

Check out the link here:http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/us/2008/06/11/pkg.nc.jilted.brides.news14

Unfortunately, terrible things like this happen every day. Imagine the poor brides whose wedding plans have been ruined as of late to natural disasters that have been plaguing us for the past month. Some of you may not have seen these images taken during the earthquake in China:

This shot was taken before the earthquake:

And after:

Even if something terrible should happen to your wedding plans- remember, the most important thing to come out of the day is that you and your husband are married, and that the disaster didn't happen during your wedding when so many could've been hurt or worse (miraculously, all of the guests at the wedding in China were unharmed).

Is there anything to be done to protect yourself from a situation like this? You can purchase Wedding Insurance from a site like www.wedsafe.com, who is a Better Business Bureau member and has been in business for more than 8 years (not endorsing them as I have no experience with them). To avoid a situation like the bankrupt shop, put deposits on a credit card- you may have some recourse with your CC company if the goods aren't delivered and have been paid for (but bankruptcy laws and rules may prevent this as they are different in every state). But be sure to file a chargeback immediately. Also, be sure to pick up your dress as soon as it's ready. No sense in leaving it there for storage, and consider having your alterations done somewhere that's not affliated with the shop as 1) it may be less expensive anyway and 2) the dress will be in someone else's hands.

These are, of course, worst-case scenarios. It's always best to be prepared for an emergency, but don't go crazy thinking something might terrible might happen on your big day. There's enough wedding stress without worrying about the "what-ifs". Just shop smartly :).

Summertime TV...So Sad, So Here's a Chuckle

2008-06-11T12:30:00.005-04:00

Now that summer is in full swing (temps here haven't been below 80 in DAYS!), the summer TV season is a little lacking. Sure, you can catch up on "Bridezillas", "Say Yes to the Dress" (speaking of which, did anyone see the recent episode where the really annoying wedding planner was trying to pick a dress for the bride, YIKES!!, the poor girl was so overwhelmed and the woman clearly didn't know how to listen) and "What Not to Wear" but the lack of quality TV programming is sad. So at night, we end up watching "The Daily Show" (please put John Stewart on real nightly news) and the "Colbert Report" (pronounced, as I now know Col-bear Re-por). I missed this particular episode, but this clip is hysterical- especially if you're 1) totally sick of the democratic candidate race and 2) a fan of "Lost". Check it out and get a good chuckle for the day:

Gerber Daisy Goodness

2008-06-10T15:38:00.012-04:00

Here are some pictures sent to me from Saundra Hadley at Planning...Forever Events in Indiana. If you're in her area and are in need of a planner, check out her site and blog. Those familiar with Saundra's work also know she can be seen on her local news station Fox 7 Wednesday mornings at 6:25 dispensing all sorts of wedding goodness.

Here are the gerber daisy pics Saundra sent to us for your viewing pleasure!

It seems a good rule, after checking out these pics is to keep your gerbers in simple arrangements. Their bright colors and sunny faces don't need much embellishment.

Thanks agan, Saundra, for sending the pics!

Make Your Own Font!

2008-06-10T09:02:00.003-04:00

Do you have incredible handwriting and wish you could use that on your invitaion? Now you can! A website called Fontstruct allows you to easily make your own font and download it to your computer. You can then pass it on to your stationer who can use it to make a truly unique invitation.

I Think We're Under Attack...

2008-06-07T13:38:00.004-04:00

Just kidding...I hope.

We live about, oh, less than a half mile from where they're doing something Civil War related here in Brandon, Vt today, and every so often we all jump from what can only be cannon fire.

Luckily, I think this celebration/reinactment/war is only going on until two this afternoon, but it's making me chuckle when the kiddies jump.

Who's Writing This Blog Anyway...??

2008-06-07T13:15:00.002-04:00

My name is Carey- and in no particular order, I'm a stationer, a graphic designer in self-training, a mom to two boys with another baby on the way, a wife, a fairly terrible housekeeper (I blame my messy kids and busy business for that, LOL), an avid reader and a gal who likes to have fun. I used to play piano and could probably still pound out a few tunes (with my fair share of mistakes), I probably own too many books, I love spending time with my family and love cheesy romance movies (especially holiday ones!). I think I've got a pretty good sense of humor, though occasionally unintentional (case in point: I say to Mr. Moon last night..."Why doesn't Stephen Colbert pronounce the "T" in report on his show's intro?" To which he replies, laughing "uh, because Colbert is pronounced without the 'T'" all but saying, "DUH!" as he laughs for several minutes. In my defense, I think I've watched the show twice from the beginning, and I blame my pregnancy addled brain for not putting it together).

But enough about me- what's your story? Are you a bride, a friend in the business, a planner, a curious passerby? Leave a comment! Say your peace!

More Gerber Daisy Wedding Inspiration

2008-06-04T09:28:00.010-04:00

For those seeking out more images and ideas for your Gerber Daisy wedding (who doesn't love this cheery flower?), we present you with these great images courtesy of Laura at Soiree Special Events in Washington DC, who has great team of wedding planners if you are in need of such service in that area. The arrangements were created by Laura and her team, and the photos are courtesy of photographer Cassidy DuHon of DuHon Photography . Please do not post these images elsewhere as they are copyrighted.

Eco-Friendly Wines and Wedding Tips

2008-05-27T14:55:00.003-04:00

If you are going "green" for your wedding- that can apply to your alcohol as well. The Daily Green has a great story featuring wines for under $25. Prices range from $11.25 to $25 and include a zinfandel, sauvignon blanc and a pinot gris. You can check out the full article here: Eco-Friendly Wines.

The Daily Green also has some Eco-Friendly Wedding Tips and so do we in an article we wrote for Associated Content a while back.

I've Been Tagged

2008-04-23T15:52:00.003-04:00

Here are the new rules!
I've been tagged by Precious Nuptials- check out her blog :)

1) Link to the person that tagged you and post the rules on your blog.
2) Share 5 songs you are embarrassed to admit to others you like and tell why.
3) Tag 7 random people at the end of your post and include links to their blogs.
4)Let each person know that they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

Jinkies- this is a tough one.

I suppose the first one would be...

1)"Closer" by Nine Inch Nails- it's such a naughty, naughty song, and one this mom of two (plus one on the way) should never admit to liking or listening when the kids are around. But it's got such a good beat.

2)"Goodbye Earl" by the Dixie Chicks- sure, it's about murder, but Earl was a nasty abuser who deserved those nasty black eyed peas.

3)"House Party Time" by Dan Zanes- it's a kids song, but a great tune and beat. It'll get you going!

4)"Check Up On It"- Beyonce- again, it's all about the tune and the beat- really.

5)"Chances Are" by Peter Cetera and Cher- oh, it's soooooo corny, but I really liked the movie and it's a good duet...ok, I like to pretend I'm Cher when I sing it- it's more fun that way.

So there it is...songs I'm embarrassed to admit I like (well, not "Earl" so much, but this was a tough tag!!)

I'm off to tag a few...hmmm, who should be so lucky...

I shall tag Jules at Pancake and French Fries, Lisa at Knot Just Pearls, and Erin at Bridedesign.blogspot.com.

Man Proposes Via Crossword Puzzle

2008-04-18T07:41:00.003-04:00

After meeting on a blind date, two Atlanta, Georgia, educators discovered their shared love of crossword puzzles. Not the kind that does them in the Sunday paper, they usually do them every night. So Alex Fay got the idea to propose via a crossword. Managing to get his cross entitled "Pop Quiz" published in the USA Today, he discreetly handed the puzzle to his beloved who started filling in the blanks. "I thought it was ironic," Lisa Stern said. "We'd talked about getting engaged," but it wasn't until she got to 58 across, with a clue reading "Question that pops up?" that it started to slowly come together. The answer to the clue? "Will you marry me?"

Her answer was a three letter word for "An affirmative response". :)

A Little Power Outtage

2008-04-15T10:53:00.003-04:00

Update: Still down, but should be back soon. As we're still unable to receive e-mails feel free to call us at 802.247.4724 10-5pm EST. Thank you!

If you've been trying to reach our main website (Lasso'd Moon Designs or Favors by the Season) this AM (Tuesday the 15th) you might notice that you can't. Don't worry, it'll be back up soon- but in the meantime, bookmark us and come back if you would :). We'll be putting up some of the new designs we've been busy creating for our clients in the next couple of weeks. But if you've got an invitation question- don't hesitate to e-mail (info @ lassodmoondesigns.com- no spaces). We'll get back to you as soon as we're able.

In the mean time, if you haven't heard, the Today Show is doing another wedding, this time with a reality tv show theme. From their website:

"Wedding bells will be be ringing on Rockefeller Plaza — again. TODAY announced plans for their 9th annual "TODAY Throws a Wedding" series, with a reality show theme of "Race to the Altar."

Five finalist couples will be selected to compete in a series of fun, competitive challenges and it will be up to TODAY viewers to vote for the winning couple. The lucky couples will to duke it out for the grand prize — the chance to win the hearts of viewers across the country and tie the knot on America's #1 morning show.

The winning couple's nuptials will then be swiftly planned by viewers for a June 25th wedding event live on TODAY." You can read more about it here.

Calling Vermont Brides- Need Help Planning Your Vermont Wedding?

2008-04-07T10:06:00.003-04:00

Looking for more information to plan your Vermont Wedding? Check out the latest bridal show coming up this Sunday, April 13th at the Jackson Gore Inn at Okemo in Ludlow, Vermont. For more information check out www.okemobridalshow.com. The doors open at 11:30 and prize drawings (including a Breezes Honeymoon) will begin at 2:30. Make sure you arrive in plenty of time to talk to the vendors and turn in your slip for prize eligibility.

Tips for an easy bridal show experience:
1)Wear comfy shoes
2)Bring a notebook for anything you might want to remember later
3)Bring a friend or two to help carry the information you receive (but too many friends or family members can make it overwhelming...imagine getting six opinions all at once instead of two)
4)Don't be afraid to ask questions
5)Don't book that day with money down- why? Because it's always best to get referrals and ask around about vendors. Seeing them at the show isn't always the same as having them at your wedding. But do schedule appointments if you really like a vendor so that you have a chance to talk to them without having to worry about interruptions from other brides or talking over the DJ's music.
6) put notes on brochures, especially if you liked a particular vendor- that way you'll have a better chance of remembering exactly why you liked them.
7) have fun and try not to get overwhelmed!! Who knows- you might walk away with some great contacts and prizes.

E-mail Shortage at Lasso'd Moon Designs

2008-03-28T13:50:00.002-04:00

If anyone tried to contact us here at Lasso'd Moon Designs on 3/27 and we haven't yet responded, it's probably because the internet ate your e-mail :). For some crazy, techie reason, we had an e-mail shortage yesterday and lost a few e-mails. So, if you would be so kind, please contact us again (info @ lassodmoondesigns.com) and we'll get back to you ASAP.

Thanks!

The Wedding Cake

2008-03-20T13:41:00.002-04:00

Have you ever wondered if something costs more just because it has the word "wedding" in front of it?

Well, here's an answer to that from the British comedy show "Man Stroke Woman"- for those who are bothered by swearing, you may want to skip it :)