WeddObsessed

For the couple who has everything...

2012-02-22T12:51:00.000-05:00

Let's level here:

When you're getting married, you and your spouse-to-be will probably have MANY discussions about money. More specifically, you'll chat about what you would do if you had unlimited money!

Steve and I talk all the time about the house we would buy, the vacation(s) we'd take, the investments we'd make if we could! Something to consider: Why not opt for a CASH REGISTRY before you say 'I do.'

ZankYou, is an AMAZING resource I wish we knew about when we were planning! Not only can you create your informational wedding website FREE of charge through ZankYou:

--you can ALSO register for unique gifts and recieve the full CASH value for them--deposited right to your bank account. ZankYou has the absolute lowest handling fee of ANY cash registry site out there (only 2.85%) and if you find a lower one--they'll match it!

Guests can buy items on your registry from all over the world, and easy peasy--you'll be able to monitor your account and progress from the comfort of your couch, on your computer.

I love this!! WeddObsessed tip of the day? Register for CASH through ZankYou !

Obsessed With: Honeymoons.

2012-02-21T12:28:00.000-05:00

Am I the only bride in the world who looked forward to her honeymoon with a fierce vengeance?? Like---thoughts of my honeymoon got me through the last weeks of planning, the pre-wedding day meltdown I had the night before I got married and the expectant getting ready moments the morning of our big day!

This is why I love this styled honeymoon shoot by Paula Player Photography. Period, end of story! I think this is a great idea--instead of trashing your dress, perhaps spend a day on your honeymoon capturing some great memories while relaxing with your love. :)

Plus. It is totally reasonable to document your pre-wedding workout body! Hey, you've worked for months to look amazing! Kudos to you, brides of the world! :)

Post blog 'to do' list:
1. Join a gym in prep for our 2 YEAR ANNIVERSARY trip to Riviera Maya in less than 2
months! :)
2. er....#1 about sums it up! :)

Vendors:
Photographer: Paula Player Photography

Hair Stylist: J. Leigh Stylist & Boutique

Event Planner: Stunning & Brilliant Events, LLC

Floral Designer: Blossoms Events

Reception Venue: Grande Dunes Ocean Club

Apparel: Village Surf Shoppe,Tara Grinna

Jewelry: Bijuju

What Marrying at Any Age Means to Me

2012-02-20T17:20:00.005-05:00

Today I read an article from the Washington Post on why women in their 20s rush in to marriage(and subsequently get divorced). One reason was young brides are insecure, another was because it was convenient, and another suggested they settled to begin with.

As a woman who married at the age of 26, I took in to consideration the assumptions this article made. And I got perturbed. Pretty much all of my friends got married in their 20s, and while I won't assume I know their reasons for marrying when they did, I can almost guarantee it wasn't for the reasons listed in the article!

The WP article was derived from a series of interviews for a book entitled 'Trash the Dress: Celebrating Divorce in Your 20s'. I have to say, I'm sad a book like this is even being written. Not because I think women should be in bad relationships or marriages, but because of the unrealistic expectation women (at any age!) may have about what getting married means (which may be the REAL reason why many marriages fail)....

Call me crazy, but I believe if you enter a marriage expecting life to be perfect, or that marriage will solve all your problems, or that you can change your spouse, or that it will never be hard, YOU WIll Be Disappointed With What You Find! Regardless of your age, vocation or reasons for getting married.

The Vow, a recent Hollywood blockbuster, is based on a true story about a young couple who married in their 20's and overcame seemingly insurmountable odds to make their marriage work. Car accident, amnesia, the whole 9 yards. In my opinion, there should be more attention paid to stories like theirs. In all reality, whether you marry in your 20's, 30's or 80's--marriage will take UNCONDITIONAL love, commitment, and a willingness to stand by your vows 'for better, or for worse.'

Obsessed with {A Mother's Touch}.

2012-02-14T09:30:00.000-05:00

Wedding planning can be a fabulous time for a mother/daughter team. My mom and I did plenty of bonding when I was planning....so many special details of my special day were ones my mom handled! Dawn &Sean Maguire enlisted the help of Dawn's mom as their wedding event designer. I am in LOVE with the amazing care that went in to a mothers touch on this special day in their lives. It's appropriate, on this Valentine's Day to give homage to mom's--the first people to EVER love us on earth. :_

See for yourself, Jayd Gardina Photography captured everything so beautifully...

Vendors:

Photographer: Jayd Gardina Photography
Caterer: Event Caterers

Event Planner: In Perfect Taste Event Planning

Reception Venue: CandleLight Farms Inn

Invitation Designer: Personalized Print LLC

Dress Store: RK Bridal

Band: Perrone Bros Entertainment

Equipment Rentals: All Seasons Party Rentals

Bridesmaid Dresses: Jasmine B2

Etsy Designer: Jewels By JaimeLynn

:)

2012-02-13T08:30:00.000-05:00

Photo by Beth Insalaco Photography

Love (according to Me!): Marriage. Family. Kids. Good times. Hard times. Bounced Checks. Buying homes. Sharing dreams. Crying. Laughing. Cuddling. Holding hands. Holding hearts. Meaningful conversations said with no words at all.

....what does love mean to you??

Happy Monday, loves! :) We can DO THIS.

Obsessed with {New England Charm}.

2012-02-10T19:21:00.000-05:00

Hello Charming. Diana & Scott Laforce are a picture perfect couple! This fabulously chic wedding was submitted by Dartmouth, Massachusetts based Lefebvre Photo.

Also, can I say how much I love the Heather grey suit on the groom?!

Diana glowed and Scott beamed. I can't get enough of their sweet and adoring love!

Vendors

Photography: Lefebvre Photo
Hair Stylist: Isis Hair Emporium

Reception Venue: Hawthorne Country Club

Dress Store: Gilda's Place of Bridal

Dress Designer: Maggie Sottero

Tuxedo and Mens Attire: Men's Warehouse

Bakery: Katrina's Bakery

Obsessed with: Modern Day Bonnie and Clyde

2012-02-06T08:30:00.000-05:00

Famous Couples in Love: Romeo and Juliet, Tristan and Isolde....and Bonnie and Clyde. This engagement session is so fun! The fabulous Kelly is Nice photography based in Atlanta, Georgia was supremely blessed to shoot such a beautiful and creative couple!

From Kelly:

Jeneese and Jason will be getting married in Miami next June. Jason is a running back for the Atlanta Falcons and the "Bonnie & Clyde" theme was his idea. He also choose the Goat Farm in Atlanta for the location of their shoot. I love themed shoot and I'm always happy when my clients are adventurous with their engagement sessions. Janesse did her own hair and makeup and they provided their own wardrobe for the shoot. I'm super happy with the way it turned out and I hope you enjoy it. Here's the link to their slideshow: www.kellyisnice.com/bonnieandclyde.

Those shoes are so hot, she should be arrested! ;)

Vendors to be Obsessed With:

Photographer: Kelly Is Nice Photography

Event Planner: Stella Harper Events

Event Venue: The Goat Farm

Free Photography Contest!

2012-02-05T11:00:00.000-05:00

Hey Burgh Brides!

Be sure check out this FREE PHOTOGRAPHY contest, courtesy of Libby Hilf photography!

Check out the amazing details:

The prize includes up to 8 hours of wedding coverage.
It includes an engagement session of 1-2 hours.
The winner will receive DVD's of all edited images with full reproduction rights.
The value of this prize is $1,000. Wowza!

So awesome! Be sure to visit Libby's website for more details!

Tips for the Blushing Bride: Part 2

2012-02-04T23:55:00.003-05:00

As promised, part one of two!

Tips for the Blushing Bride: Perspective from the Perpetual Bridesmaid continued:

Ask any girl who’s ever been in a wedding how many times she has re-worn a bridesmaid dress. Almost always never. So when a bridesmaid hears the words, “You can always shorten it later. Then it’s like two dresses in one,” what she really needs to surmise is, “Ladies, we may need to be prepared to sell blood plasma to pay for the dresses.”

It is TOTALLY reasonable and quite do-able for a bridesmaid dress to stay in the range of one hundred and fifty dollars. Stores like David’s Bridal, Alfred Angelo, or even J.C. Penney have many styles and colors for the budget-minded bride (and bridesmaids). There is NEVER a reason to go couture or designer for a bridesmaids dress. I promise all parties involved will love you for not choosing the designer gown. Please do be kind and choose the least expensive dress your wedding vision will allow.

Perhaps think about including dress costs in your wedding budget and making hair/nails/whatever else you want your gift to your bridesmaids. We will be happy, you will be happy- and we’ll all live happily ever after!

Liz, a good friend of mine, shared with me an amazing tale of a wedding she was in after college. Liz received an e-mail with bulleted requirements from the bride. While most bridesmaids would expect some sort of communication from the Mrs.-To-Be, this list was nothing like what you’d expect:

To:Liz
From: Bridezilla
Monday 4-4-08

Subject: OPEN NOW- Wedding Details. Time Sensitive Material.

•All bridesmaids must go spray tanning two weeks before the wedding

•All bridesmaids must apply a packet of up-do styling gel on the day of the wedding

•You are NOT permitted to wash your hair that day, or the day before

•Hair must be at least shoulder length, and no “odd” hair color is acceptable.

•All highlights must be subtle and recently touched up

•All wedding party members are required to stay at the reception sight two day before the wedding for facials, waxing and manicures

•All bridesmaids MUST have their hair styled at the spa salon- NO EXCEPTIONS

•If you are planning on getting pregnant/are pregnant contact me immediately. The dresses may not work for you

My feelings on required treatments and styling is this: If it’s not an option, bridesmaids shouldn’t be footing the bill. I realize those wedding pictures will be all you’ll have after the day is done-but requiring your bridal party to undergo tanning treatments and spa days so they are as bronzed and glowing as you is a bit over the top!

Looking back, it's funny that I wrote all these things! Now that I've been a bride myself, I can see I was a bit harsh on brides to be! To all MY bridesmaids, if I was over the top, in any way, I apologize! There is nothing I enjoy more than being a bridesmaid--every time I'm asked, I truly DO count it a great honor. While my examples were a BIT over the top and dramatic (I happen to be those things pretty often myself!)-- my advice to all brides to be: have the wedding you want, but be considerate while doing so!

xoxo

Jaime

Tips for the Blushing Bride: Perspective from a perpetual bridesmaid (pt 1 of 2)

2012-02-01T12:35:00.002-05:00

Source

Have you ever read through an old journal and laughed, marveled and enjoyed where you were at in THAT exact time in your life? Here's an article I wrote when I was completing my masters degree for a journalism class KEEP IN MIND THIS WAS PRE-MY WEDDING AND ENGAGEMENT!

Full Disclosure, I was a bit sassy when I wrote it, don't meant to offend ANYONE--just thought my WeddObsessed crew would find it amusing if NOTHING else! :)

Posting this in two entries, as it is a bit long for ONE post!

A group of women exist today who share a bond that binds them closer than sisters. These women have worn dresses they despise while displaying forced smiles on their faces. Many of them know every place you can buy custom dyed shoes in a 20-mile radius of their homes, some going as far as having a personal tailor on speed dial in their cell phones or the five closest florists to any given reception sight. They can pull off an elegant shower without a hitch, mainly because they are experienced in the art of the bridal shower and sincerely know all the right things to say at the right time to encourage a distressed bride-to-be.

Who are these women? They are the highly under-rated, yet all-important bridesmaids, the girls who stand loyally beside the lovely bride and groom as they exchange their once in a lifetime nuptials. For better or for worse, these bridesmaids spend countless hours and dollars satisfying every wish and whim their betrothed friend makes.

Please don’t mistake my feelings and remarks as bitter or cynical. I couldn’t be anything further from that. In fact, weddings literally make me giddy! (Really! They do!) I love so many things about them, starting with the fact that two people are making an amazing statement and a lifelong commitment in front of everyone that matters to them.

To participate in such a role is one of the highest honors that can be bestowed on any adoring friend, but quite candidly, after being in six weddings, none of them my own, there are few things I’d like to share with you, o lovely bride. First things first: if you are wondering, pepto bismol pink is generally not a flattering color for a bridesmaid dress. Period. End of story.

Every bride sincerely vows to her girls to be considerate, thoughtful, relaxed and carefree right after the engagement. Then reality hits. It’s like a switch is flipped that sends one and all rushing pell mell toward that dramatic, idealized, romanticized day of all days, complete of course, with all the thoughtfully orchestrated personal touches.

Suddenly, frantic agendas (in bulletin format) are sent out to the wedding party through mass e-mails. Mandatory tanning sessions are ordered, and the “you-can-pick-your own-dress-style” shifts to the unapologetic “I will chose the style and color for every bridesmaid,” sentiment.

Granted, I realize that you will never please everyone, and you, the focal point bride, should be the one deciding the color and cut of the bridesmaid dresses, but the bride should never choose color or style of the bridesmaid dresses based on the one size fits all body type/skin tone mentality.

Bridesmaid Bottom Line: PLEASE have mercy when choosing our dress color and style. We love you. We are excited to be in your wedding, but we DON’T want to have to hide the pictures we take in storage for fear of someone black mailing us with them. And please remember that we don’t want to have to raid our IRA to pay for a dress/pair of shoes/hair style/tanning/nails for one day. ☺

.....Continued tomorrow! :)

Ti Amo: Laura Crema & Antonio Mancino

2012-01-30T10:00:00.000-05:00

Let's talk about Italy. I adore Italy. After spending some time there in college, I can confidently say this country is one of my favorites! :)

Fibre di luce Photography submitted this fabulous wedding a few weeks ago and I could hardly wait to post the pictures! Enjoy! Grazie!

Commentary by Fibre di luce:

Laura and Antonio wanted a traditional wedding, celebrated within the gorgeous lakeside San Liberato estate, near Bracciano's Lake (Rome). San Liberato's church is a tiny, romantic stone church, with a gorgeous ancient fresco, and Fairytale Wedding Planning suggested not to overload it with flowers, and respect the natural, lovely mood of the stone. The ethereal gypsophila spheres, and candles, for a magical atmosphere.

For the reception dinner, a total white mise-en-place with golden details, and a minimal centerpiece with a glass boule with pink hydrangea (as for the bouquet), mirror & small candles. Instead of escort cards, guests received tagged cupcakes- lovely and delicious, designed by La Mucca Sbronza.

Laser cut invitations were created by KatBlu Studio, and the rest of the stationery Fairytale Wedding Planning and the lovely couple, taking the same colors and arabesque for tags, menu and placeholders.

After the ceremony, Laura and Antonio had a pleasant walk across the lovely San Liberato's botanical garden, with lots of colorful balloons: they were so ecstatic!

After the classical dinner, they've spent some joyful time with their best friends, dancing and having fun. We loved their wedding, and wish them all the best.

Here are some of MY favorite things:

1. Who says baby's breath can't be elegant and chic?

2. Pink Hydrangea---a yes in my book!

3. Little details make a big impact, even in you're the only one who will know or enjoy them on your wedding day! :) Love the personalized hanger!

4. There is no better decor than God's creation. NO BETTER.

5. Consider sneaking off for some night time shots of you and your new husband during/after your reception!

Sigh.....well loves, I'm off to convince the Mister to maybe move to Italy??

xox for now! ~Jaime

Photographer: Fibre di luce

Hair Stylist: Stefania Macrì

Event Designer: FAIRYTALE WEDDING PLANNER

Floral Designer: Daisy Flowers

Invitation Designer: KatBlu Studio,Fibre di Luce

Cinema and Video: Glazà Multimedia

Dress Store: Davino Spose

Cake Designer: La Mucca Sbronza
Event Venue: San Liberato S.r.l., Tenuta San Miniatelli

Obsessed with: {Country Charm times a billion}

2012-01-16T16:33:00.000-05:00

Okay. Can we talk about this wedding?? I can't take it! So amazing! I love love love the cohesiveness of this rustic theme, from the cowboy boots, to the venue--it oozes of the care and time bride Marcy and Groom David from Telluride, Washington spent making their wedding day awesome!

From the happy couple:

We spent the most time on our invitations, (we have this great Japanese printmaking thingy called a Print Gocco.. they are out of business but people are cultish about the awesomeness of this little device and keep it going for now.) We used a lot of veneer from B&B Rare Woods in Colorado. We also made a lot of things from fallen trees on our property: the cake stand, sign for the back of our truck, other signs, a teepee for the kiddos, table names,.. We bought a burnishing tool and burned letters into everything.. even our hangers for suit & dress… everything smelled like a campfire. And all the blue ball jars were found here on our island.. and house our rock/shell/feather/flower collections from each state/country we've lived in or been to together. Fabric projects: the butterfly wings for the flower girls, garter belts for the single girls, and torn satiny fabric for ribbon, Homemade cootie catchers kept the 23 kids occupied during dinner, and we had things like: "Kiss the Bride", "Hug Grampa John" written inside. The kids also were enthralled with the guest book table.. we had an old typewriter that was m's dads, water color pencils and book, and a card box with all the homemade drawings we had received from the kids leading up to the wedding. We have large families & friends from all over, and invited 160 people.. (only 78 attended).. but we wanted it to be an intimate experience so making everything ourselves made it more personal.. and was fun for us! We also wanted to drag everyone to this beautiful part of the world, knowing they may not see it otherwise. Instead of leaving right after for a honeymoon, we camped and adventured with whoever could stay longer. It was nice to have that relaxed time with everyone, and we lovingly refer to it as our Muddy Honeymoon. And because photography, travel and letter writing are intertwined in our 3 years together, we had elements of those throughout.

Well done, ya'll!

Vendors to be Obsessed with:

Photographer: Aubrey Joy Photography

Reception Venue: Gorrono Ranch

Dress Store: anna bé bridal boutique

Shoes: Frye Boots,Lucchese Boots

Jewelry: Artfully Elegant

Rehearsal Dinner Venue: Mountain Lodge

Tuxedo and Mens Attire: Mahiras
Caterer: Allred's Restaurant

Guest Post: 2012 Dress Trends! (Warning ravishing ruffles below!)

2012-01-10T22:54:00.000-05:00

I'm very excited to feature 2012 Bridal Trends by Sophie from www.forherandforhim.com! This is a great site and resource for brides, bridesmaids and anyone needing a special occasion dress! They have a fabulous variety and reasonable prices! Lots of customization options too! :)

Now, here's Sophie!

2012 has begun, and for the lucky brides-to-be getting married this year, there are so many gorgeous new dresses and trends to choose from. Our Spring 2012 bridal collection presents a gorgeous mixture of classic, modern and totally on-trend wedding dresses, all utterly beautiful and amazingly affordable. I wanted to share a few of these gorgeous gowns with you, and have a look at the main trends in bridal wear we’ll be seeing for Spring 2012.

First up, it’s no surprise that lace is going to be big for 2012. Lace has long been a favorite of those who favor tradition, and want to achieve a classic and graceful look, and it’s been thrust into the fashion spotlight once more, thanks to – yep, you guessed it – Kate Middleton. Designers have jumped on the trend, approaching lace in all kinds of chic and creative ways in order to produce gowns that offer fresh and modern updates to traditional lace gowns. I just love seeing classic and vintage looks reinvented, and for 2012 they have been given a real energetic twist!

For 2012 you should expect tons of luxurious texture. Tulle, lace, ruffles, layers,feathers and 3D flowers combine to create spectacular 3D gowns that just beg to be touched. We have some gorgeous gowns that burst with loads of brilliant, seductive texture. We have lots of beautiful textured gowns - check out the subtle, elegant folds on chiffon on this white gown above! Or for something more extreme – the luscious ruffles on the skirt of the amazing pink gown! And, this soft pink color fits perfectly into the category of our next trend: you guessed it, color.

Yup, color has been becoming a more and more popular choice amongst brides for quite some time now. It is no longer thought strange to choose a gown in a color other than white (though bright orange might be pushing it a bit!), and this is reflected by the abundance of colored gowns seen on the designer catwalks for spring 2012. Romantic, soft and whimsical – my favorites were the gowns in shades of soft pink. For all of our wedding gowns you can choose the color you like best, making it super easy to rock this trend.

Illusion necklines are also going to be big for 2012. If you’re not sure what I’m talking about, an illusion neckline is a sheer layer of fabric that covers a section of the skin that would otherwise be exposed if you wore a strapless dress.

Have a look at the cute short dress below and you’ll see what I mean! Illusion necklines are perfect if you’re bored of looking at strapless dresses but feel that full on sleeves would be too heavy or offer too much coverage. Illusion necklines are elegant, romantic and make sure your dress doesn’t fall down on the dance floor!

All of our wedding dresses come in the color you choose, and have the option of custom size, making sure you get the perfect match. If you’re in a hurry, we also offer a fast track option that means your custom size dress will be ready to be shipped out to you in just 7 days. Happy 2012 all! - Sophie

Obsessed with {Amy & Colin & their Sweet September Love}

2012-01-04T13:11:00.000-05:00

Have you ever met someone who was so friendly to you, it completely brightened your day? That's how I felt when I met Amy my sophomore year as a transfer student at Westminster College. Amy lived on my floor in Ferguson Hall--and she was one of the many reasons I felt so welcomed at college! One of my favorite things EVER is watching college friends fall in love, get engaged and get married. Amy got married this past September, and when I saw her fabulous wedding photos captured beautifully by Elizabeth and John of Craig Photography, I couldn't wait to feature Amy and all her sweetness!

Amy and Colin were married at Green Gables near Johnstown, PA. I LOVE this venue. LOVE. IT.

WeddObsessed:

How did you and Colin meet?

Amy:

Colin and I first started talking online. Colin asked if I wanted to meet him at a local bar to watch a Pittsburgh Penguins game. The evening was totally random and I was pretty tired for work the next day, but I left that night with a feeling that it was the start of something good. No flowers, expensive dinner or over-the-top first date gestures, just us, the Penguins and a few outgoing locals.

WeddObsessed

What was your least favorite part about planning?

Amy:

Least favorite part of planning was the details. I’m a ridiculously organized person, but I was definitely drawn more towards the creative side of planning. I seemed to get the most frustrated with sending the invitations, the seating chart, and tracking down rsvp’s.

WeddObsessed:

What was something that 'went wrong' on your wedding day?

Amy:

THE WEATHER threw a curveball on our wedding day. Little did we know it would be 90 degrees with unseasonably high humidity for our outdoor September wedding in the mountains. Luckily, the sun was shining, the pictures turned out great and you really couldn’t tell we were hot, sweaty and uncomfortable.

WeddObsessed:
What was your favorite part about planning?

Amy:

Favorite part about planning was the DECOR! I basically just loved making everything look pretty. I knew I wanted a shabby chic, Pottery Barn-ish feel, and I was very lucky to find a venue that was the perfect backdrop. I found TONS of inspiration from Style Me Pretty, and then tried to duplicate it to match our theme. My step-mom and I worked on the majority of the decor ourselves. We had a lot of fun searching antique and craft stores for projects – I couldn’t have done it without her. Etsy was pretty much my best friend for about a year and I worked with a lot of great vendors to help customize ideas. It definitely brought out the crafty side of me that’s been hiding for the past several years.

Obsessed with: Friends Getting ENGAGED

2011-12-27T15:40:00.002-05:00

Christmas is a time where engagements abound---another reason to call it 'The Most Wonderful Time of the Year'--that and baby Jesus was born! :) I am SO EXCITED to share the following engagement story with you all--my dear friend Victoria just got engaged on Christmas Morning....it's the most precious thing. Ever. CONGRATS Victoria and Justin! :)

Aren't they cute! Pic: Stolen from VB's Facebook!

As a fellow wedding planner and friend of Jaime's, I have always been a huge fan of WeddObsessed. So when she asked me to be a guest writer, I was ecstatic! Jaime and I have grown really close over the past six months. One Friday this past August, Jaime, myself, and another one of our close friends were having dinner. Being the only single lady in this group, I spent the dinner telling them the woes of the dating world while simultaneously living vicariously through them as they told stories of wedded bliss. Being the encouraging girl that she is, Jaime sweetly said to me, "I have a feeling the man meant especially for you is right around the corner. I just know he is!" None of us had any idea of just how right she was.

About two weeks after that night, I received a totally random Facebook message from Justin, a guy who I met and went on a handful of dates with in early spring 2008. When we originally dated, Justin was incredibly funny, thoughtful, and charming. So what did I do? Of course, I stopped seeing him because I thought he was "too nice." What an idiot I was!!! Justin and I didn't keep in touch between then and now, but every so often he did cross my mind (and then I promptly kicked myself for ever breaking up with him). Imagine my surprise and sheer excitement to see his name pop up in my Facebook inbox.

The message said he was moving back to the area and he asked if I would like to catch up over dinner. Would I?!?! Let me think...would I like a second chance with a genuinely sweet guy? Sign. Me. Up.

Our "first" date was unlike any other I had ever been on. I don't think either of us stopped laughing the entire time we were together. I came home that evening with my head literally spinning. I knew. I just knew. I knew in heart I was just with the man I was going to marry. We had found each other...again.

Justin and I have been inseparable ever since. Our relationship seemed to move at warp speed. After less than a month of hanging out, we quickly progressed to an official couple. We both knew we would eventually marry, and I often joked that I'd marry him if he "put a Twisty Tie on my finger tomorrow." Despite this, I didn't think an engagement would happen any time in the near future.

Imagine my surprise (again) when, in pure Christmas-morning-magical fashion, Justin asked me to be his wife!!! The proposal was so thoughtful, creative, and memorable. Justin has an enormous dog: an ever-drooling, always shedding, 135 pound, black, Italian mastiff named Kane. Even though I often ask Justin why he had to get the world's largest dog, I'll admit that Kane is beyond cute. I'm a total sucker for his slimy face and have grown to calling myself his "mom". I thought it was so cute that the tiny box that was strategically placed in the bottom of my stocking was marked "To Mom; Love, Kane." My heart skipped a beat as I unwrapped the jewelry box. For a split second, I thought it might be a ring but then quickly told myself I was being ridiculous and that there probably earrings inside! Instead what I found was a Twisty Tie and tiny note saying "Will you be my mom? Love, Kane.". Immediately, I started laughing at what I thought was a sweet practical joke being played on me by my boyfriend. Then, my heart literally stopped when I looked up to find Justin in front of me, down on one knee, with the most gorgeous ring I've ever seen in his hand. I don't even remember exactly what he said because I was too busy crying and saying "Really? Are you serious?" But what I do remember is this: it was perfect. Plain and simple. It was intimate, just the two of us, at home, in a corner of the room that I will never look at the same way again. I never imagined how his proposal would go, but now I realize that it was everything I never knew I wanted. I'm crying happy tears all over again as I re-tell this!

Because I'm a wedding planner, many assume I have all the details figured out already. I've been engaged for less than a week! Ironically, we actually don't even want to begin thinking about planning our wedding. We simply want to enjoy this over-the-moon-head-over-heels-in-love sensation we have right now. And to tell you the truth...I'd still marry him tomorrow with a Twisty Tie on my finger, wearing a potato sack, with a screaming baby in the audience, in the pouring down rain (all typical wedding nightmares). I'm not worried planning my dream wedding. My dreams have already come true...the wedding itself will just be icing on the cake.

Obsessed with {Tiffany Blue...Still}.

2011-12-01T09:30:00.000-05:00

Okay, it started to snow in the 'burgh today, which makes me want to cry a little. Don't get me wrong, I am ALL for snow on Christmas Eve and Christmas day....only.

This is why I am posting these LOVELY photos from Jinda Photography of Tacoma, Washington. Not only are the BEAUTIFUL, but they were taken in the summer time, which happens to be my FAVORITE. Something else that's my favorite? Tiffany blue ANYTHING. Aren't these bridesmaid dresses fab?!

This couple had used some non-conventional spaces for their wedding events--I really think ALL brides should consider using venues with character and fun details. I mean--guys, these photos? So classically amazing! The Hotel Murano and Museum of Glass were PERFECTION.

Photographer: Jinda Photography

Submitted via Two Bright Lights

Sweet ride, sweet sweets, sweet life.

2011-11-22T12:34:00.001-05:00

Hi dolls! I know I've been a poor blogger lately, but things have been nuts. Between traveling for work, the holidays, car shopping and life, I have barely had a moment to think straight! Cue this post:

Recently, I was especially honored to be invited to participate in the #sonicsweets tour in Pittsburgh. What is sonicsweets you ask?? Sonic= Chevy car Sweets=bakeries. This is event looked AWESOME. Unfortunately, my day job didn't allow for me leaving to go test drive cars, while visiting three AMAZING Pittsburgh bakeries:Dozen, Sugar Cafe and Glutteny.

The sweet (pun intended) gals at Teirney PR in Harrisburg (the masterminds behind #sonicsweers) concocted a brilliant idea: a #sonicsweets virtual tour of my own! A Chevy Cruze was delivered to my office filled with AMAZING baked sweets goodness. I had the BEST lemon pound cake of my LIFE from Sugar Cafe, I nearly died of a sugar coma from the caramel corn, ginger lemon and milk chocolate mini-cupcakes from Dozen, and the GLUTEN FREE white almond cake with vanialla buttercream icing and raspberry filling from Glutteny was OUT OF THIS WORLD.

As for the Cruze? I have to say, I was a little bit (okay, a lot) in love with it! The timing could not have been more perfect, as Steve's car DIED (like, croaked) at the beginning of the month. The Cruze is an economical car with some pretty snazzy upgrade options. The one we drove was 'Victory Red'--her name for the week? Stella. Also the highway miles per gallon ration? Incred. Stella was sassy, smart, sophisticated and stellar. My favorite features were the heated leather seats, the fast pick-up and the sleek interior design of the car. OH! And the push-start!

Anyone looking for new wheels should seriously! test drive the Cruze. You'll be obsessed. Conversely, any bride, party planner, or person with a pulse should head to Dozen, Sugar Cafe and Glutteny and try their amazing, home made goods. I may or may not have gained 5 lbs just from LOOKING at these things---they were THAT good.

*Pics of goods coming soon! I'm at work, and don't have them on me!

Obsessed with {Je 'taime}

2011-11-08T20:20:00.001-05:00

"Love in any language, straight from the heart, Pulls us all together, never apart.

And once we learn to speak it-All the world will hear.

Love in every language-fluently spoken here."

When I got this Two Bright Lights submission, I knew I HAD to post it. Photographer Elisabeth Perotin Photographie of Reims, France submitted the super-cute, super-fun retro-boheme wedding of Aurélie and Sylvain.

Elisabeth stated '...this wedding was probably the one that looked the more like the one I would dream of for me. Aurélie wore a wonderful 20's style dress made by "Lili M", a very talented designer from Reims and an absolutely beautiful bouquet of peonies. She also wore great shoes created by Vivienne Westwood. Aurélie created everything herself, that's why this wedding was so unique and also because her and Sylvain made an awesome couple. It was a real pleasure to photograph them!'

I'll add it is a real pleasure to view their photos--so fun and breathtaking! :) Je suis --erm,--in love!!

Viva la France!

Photographer: Elisabeth Perotin Photographie

Submitted via Two Bright Lights

Are Wedding Rings Out of Style or Something??

2011-10-25T12:35:00.001-04:00

Okay- I'm going to 'go there.' What is with people who are married NOT wearing wedding rings? I remember my first job out of college-many of my colleagues (predominantly males) who were married weren't wearing rings. I am now seeing this even more, particularly with my younger male colleagues. But my question is 'why?'

I know Prince William opted not to wear a ring, and I've heard all sorts of arguments/reasons why people are not wearing them, but personally, it still irks me! When I was single, this trend was especially confusing. I'd meet a guy on the bus, in a meeting or while out with friends, and lo and behold, deep in conversation a casual mention of 'my wife' would come up and I'd realize--HE IS TAKEN. Naturally, I was grateful for the 'heads up,' but a wedding ring would have done the trick MUCH EARLIER in the encounter. Conversely, I know it is often confusing for men when women DO WEAR rings on their ring finger when they are NOT married....but I digress.

I know there is no rule that says YOU MUST WEAR A RING, but I'm curious what YOUR thoughts are--I'd be especially curious to hear from the fellla's out there--is there something I'm missing??? And for my ladies, would/does it bother you that your man/men in general don't wear a wedding ring?

I'll say it for me: Steve, I am not okay if you decide not to wear your ring. One of my favorite sights is seeing your ring on your hand.... :) Let's the world know you're taken by MOI!

{Give-a-way}Old, new, borrowed, blue and SILKY?!

2011-10-24T13:33:00.001-04:00

So it's the morning of your wedding, you're getting ready with all your bridesmaids, your mom, and seemingly the entire population of your home town in the room. Your photographer and his/her assistant are taking lovely candid photos of you getting your hair, make-up and nails done, and all your bridesmaids are doing the same. You know the question I'm about to ask, right?

What is a girl to wear?!

I'd tickled pink to introduce you to Sara, of Doie Lounge/Designs. Sara started this eco-friendly company six years ago and works out of California. I absolutely am OBSESSED with her stuff! I mean, look at these robes you guys! So sweet, glamorous,soft and beautiful! Sara has been a bridesmaid TWELVE TIMES (she beats me!) so she knows what's up. :)

One of the things I love most about her gorgeous lounge wear robes is everyone can keep wearing them after the wedding day is over. I wish I had known about these robes for my wedding! While I loved my 'bride' robe from VS, I obviously can't wear it on a daily basis (well, I can, but you know what I mean!).

As Sara told me so eloquently: "These timeless robes make beautiful and practical gifts for the bridal party, while infusing an often-ignored moment (getting ready the morning of), with elegant detail. This primping time, filled with activity and anticipation, produces some of the most touching photo moments."

I couldn't agree more, Sara! Here's the skinny on Doie Lounge robes:

- Fits most: available in sizes X-small to X-large; looks stunning on both short and tall frames
- Modern cut: kimono-style sleeves, hits at the knee
- Functional and stylish: incredibly soft bamboo jersey with patterned silk, for fun pops of color
- Stays put: between the permanently attached outer silk tie and an interior tie, it won't come off unexpectedly
-All fabrics are natural and sustainable and each robe has been produced locally, just a few miles from their headquarters in Los Angles.

And now, for the best part ever! One LUCKY WeddObsessed reader can win a lovely Bettina or Lilian robe(your choice, worth $136)! AND all WeddObsessed readers can use this code: brides20, for 20% off your purchase!

Here's how you can enter:
Mandatory Entry: Visit DoieLounge.com and comment on this post with your favorite item they sell! DON'T FORGET TO LEAVE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS! :)

Extra entries (Please leave an additional comment for each entry you do)
- Follow WeddObsessed on twitter.

- Become a fan of WeddObsessed on Facebook

-Follow Doie on Twiter

-Become a fan of Doie on Facebook.

The giveaway ends on October 31 at 5pm EST. The giveaway is open to US residents only.

Be sure you check out Doielounge.com, and the Doie Lounge Blog too! :) Sara just LOVES working with brides, and can answer any questions you might have...she offers even deeper discounts for large orders! She also has many more colors and combinations not on her site. Check her out!

Obsessed With {the good stuff}.

2011-10-18T09:30:00.000-04:00

Weddings, in my opinion, SHOULD be classy. They should be lovely. They should be what the couple who is getting married want it to be.

Leeann Marie Photography submitted this gorgeous, classic and perfectly chic wedding via Two Bright Lights. I just love it. Something about this bride--her dress, her hair, her love for her groom captured my attention and my heart all at once. Here's the thing: every wedding I attend is my favorite wedding. Every detail, color, decision--they are fabulous to me! I've said it once, and I'll say it again- Weddings are not a competition. The thing I love about this wedding submission is the absolute ELEGANCE that emanates from every photo. These are what weddings are about...not a crazy theme, a killer band, or impeccable food--weddings are about LOVE-weddings are about the good stuff.

These moments are so precious--Love how sweetly they were captured.

Aisles drenched in petals...

The grooms look: one of my FAVORITE moments at any wedding...

The joyous bride--BEAMING.

LOVE: the bridesmaids dresses? What a unique color--and the simple flowers are the perfect accent.

True confession, I thought I'd wear a lace dress on my wedding day--this dress/veil combo reminds me of why I. Love. Lace.

Stunning. Plain and Simple.

Simple accessories are the perfect accent for a beautiful bride.

When this couple is old and gray, I have a feeling their grand kids will be sighing over these photos...

I think this is just divine.

Doesn't get any better than this.

Photographer: Leeann Marie Photography

Reception Venue: The Georgetown

Dress Designer: San Patrick

Ceremony Location: Trinity United Methodist

Submitted via Two Bright Lights

Do Nick and Mariah have it right?

2011-10-14T13:03:00.000-04:00

Vow renewals. Love them or hate them? Obviously, as a WeddObsessed person, I LOVE them. Not only are you re-affirming your committment to your spouse, but you get to plan a WHOLE NEW WEDDING. ;)

Kidding....sorta. Steve and I were talking the other day about our two-year anniversary trip this upcoming April. We are headed to Riveria Maya and I think it would (seriously) be awesome to renew our vows, just the two of us, on the beach at sunset. Naturally, after making this decision, my first thought was a dress! :)

Whilst browsing the Maggie Sottero website on my lunch break today (you guys--I obv. HAVE to keep up with the latest dress trends, right? I write a wedding blog, for Pete's sake!) , I came accross a few beauties. Dress #1,

#2,

I've also asked my sweetest if perhaps a trip to Kleinfelds would be appropriate. He said no.

Even so, what are your thoughts on vow renewals? Do you think there is an appropriate # of years you should wait? Or do Nick and Mariah have it right?

xoxoxo
Jaime

Please Don't Stop the Music...

2011-10-03T09:30:00.000-04:00

I just love today's engagement feature from Rogue Art Photography in Indianapolis, Indiana. I wouldn't say I'm especially musically inclined, but I did marry a musician--and when I saw this adorable session, I couldn't stop smiling! Engagement shoots are pretty much common place now-a-days, so I always encourage my clients and brides to take the opportunity to make the shoot their own. Bridgette and Ryan used their engagement shoot to showcase their fun and creative side.

Check out what Brian and Amy of Rogue Art Photography had to say about the shoot:

He's in a band. She loves music. He's a vinyl junkie. She's in love with Elvis. Bridgett and Ryan's shoot was great. . Bridgett's love of all things Elvis was awesome and fit perfectly with Ryan's love of all things vinyl. It was hot, but we busted out the guitars, mics, record players and vinyls and had an amazing time.

Ah love, such sweet harmony.

Photographer: Rogue Art Photography
Location: Eagle Creek Park
Submitted via Two Bright Lights

The End of Wedding Season (for me).

2011-10-02T18:54:00.001-04:00

Source

Hello Readers! :)

This has been such an amazing summer, I can hardly believe the fall is here, live and in living color. I got to work some AMAZING weddings at some awesome venues this past summer. I have my FINAL wedding next weekend at The Mansion at Maple Heights--then it's a hiatus for me, my back and my silver ballet flats.

One wedding trend I've noticed and LOVED is the Private Last Dance. Ever heard of it? One of my lovely summer couples did a private last dance and I have to say, they absolutely LOVED it. Something about letting the last wedding memory you make be between You, Your spouse and your photographer makes me happy--after all, it IS just about the two of you, no?

In other news, I am VERY excited to announce:

1. Today I realized my husband and I have been married for 520 days! :)

2. I am now accepting photo submissions through Two Bright Lights! :)

Keep on the lookout for some super ah-ma-zing engagement, wedding and trash the dress shoots! :)

xoxox

Jaime

Obsessed with: Pittsburgh Make-Up

2011-09-21T10:00:00.000-04:00

Let's be real--your wedding will be the most photographed day of your life-unless you're a celebrity!! I've heard of many a bride who opted not to hire a make-up artist for their wedding make-up---this post isn't to say that you absolutely HAVE to hire a make-up artist. BUT if you are wavering on the fence, perhaps this post will convince you to make the investment, one that I think is very worthwhile! :) I loved feeling super pampered and gorgeous for my wedding, if we're being candid here.

Photo by Kathy Wolfe Photography

Meet Julie of Pittsburgh Make-Up....and while you're at it, follower her on Twitter (@pghmakeup) and become a fan on Facebook! :)

WeddObsessed:
What made you start doing make-up professionally? How did you 'stumble upon' this passion?

Julie of Pittsburgh Makeup:
My passion started as a kid, I would sneak into my mom’s makeup kit quite
often and do makeovers on my child-hood girlfriends. Right out of high school I went to Cosmetology school since I knew this was the field I wanted to pursue. Shortly afterassisting a few hair salons, I got a position working for the cosmetics line Lancome. From there I realized I didn’t want to do hair, but started to get very passionate about pursing makeup 100%. I bounced around with different lines including Chanel,
Estee Lauder and Christian Dior and other makeup positions before starting my own company Pittsburgh Makeup.

WeddObsessed:
What celebrity, living or dead, do you consider to be a classic beauty, and why?
Julie of Pittsburgh Makeup:
I would have to say the first woman that comes to mind is Jennifer Garner. She doesn’t go
super trendy with her makeup, but always keeps it classic and knows what works for
her. She always looks amazing!

WeddObsessed:

Kristi Telnov Photography
Makeup by Pittsburgh Makeup

What is your favorite make-up product, and why?

Julie of Pittsburgh Makeup:

I have so many favorites but something I always have in my kit and use on
every single client is the Urban Decay Primer Potion. It’s a base for your eye makeup,
and works unbelievably well. Your shadows will pop better and won’t budge all day…
which is important for my clients since a large number of them are brides! You can
buy it at either Sephora or Ulta.

WeddObsessed:
If you were stranded on an island, what two things would you take along?

Isabell Photography
Makeup by Pittsburgh Makeup

Julie of Pittsburgh Makeup:
If we’re talking beauty items, I would say lip conditioner since I hate when my lips are dry and lots of sunscreen! Nothing ages you like a nasty sun-burn.

WeddObsessed:
How would you describe your make-up style?
Julie of Pittsburgh Makeup:
I definitely keep things on the simple side just on an everyday basis. Bronzer for sure and I love a neutral eye ~ lots of browns, taupes and creams. I do love a black winged liner…that is probably my signature look. I keep my lips light and glossy. When going out or to an event I love a smokier eye and get a little more dramatic.

WeddObsessed:
What do you consider to be the biggest mistake women make with their make-up
application?

Laurel Mountain Photography-
Makeup by Pittsburgh Makeup

Julie of Pittsburgh Makeup:
Since I do a lot of makeup lessons at my studio I see what women buy and have in their makeup bags. Some women have 3 or 4 wrong shades of foundation. This is one item I suggest buying at the department store and get the professionals to match you up. Even if you spend a little more, it’s worth it because you won’t waste money purchasing the wrong shades. Also don’t go darker with your foundation to give color to your face, that’s what bronzers are for! Your foundation should match your skin and should be tested on your neckline not your hand.