Today is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent where Catholics and other denominations of Christianity focus on the death and resurrection of Christ. Lent is a period of reflection and repentance.

But without sinning, what are you supposed to repent? That’s what this past week was for! Mardi Gras (aka Fat Tuesday), Carnival, and Pancake Day are all examples of sinful indulgences. These deboturous festivities are fun had by all regardless of religious beliefs. With Carnival and Mardi Gras come bold flashy colors and lots of sparkle and shine. With Ash Wednesday, muted earth tones of ashy grey and taupe brown are more often used. Why not mix them together for a great color palet and take away some great ideas for the Big Day!

A trend in the past year of having performers at your party is still hot. Having masked Carnival or Mardi Gras performers and dancers will keep your guests moving and entertained throughout the event. The mixture of bright colors with grey in a lounge area keeps both themes alive while giving your guest a relaxed setting. These grey velvet chairs are fabulous! A little bit lux while still drawing the eye to the table. The Brits call the day before Ash Wednesday, Pancake Day. As a late night treat, pass silver dollar pancakes for guests to munch on while the party continues. Masks are worn on the eve of the Lenten season as a way to hide the sinners face. Rather than covering up your guests, these leather cut out masks by Tom Banwell available on Etsy, are similar to the trend of the paper mustaches  and masks, but takes it up a notch. Your guests can even keep the masks as a favor. Lanterns and candles wrapped in grey metal cut outs give the lowlight romantic feeling. I cannot get over how beautiful this photo of a tulip is! If it wasn’t just a trick in the lighting, these flowers would be perfect for a bouquet. Having luxurious looking lounge furniture for guests is key, but this antique wood and violet velvet love seat is the perfect for the bride and groom when they want to kick back. Since grey goes with every color, having a lot of different flowers in different colors will add to the fun Carnival/Mardi Gras look. Keeping the flowers seasonal is a great way to be able to have more flowers without going overboard on the budget.

Happy Ash Wednesday (for those who follow) and hope everyone had a wonderful Fat Tuesday!

-Hilary

One of my favorite wedding trends that appeared in the later half of the 20th century was the groom’s cake. Another way for grooms to show their personality in a female dominant decorated event, cakes were a way for grooms to have chocolate cake (not typically found in traditional wedding cakes) and some sort of decorative power. Originating from the South, grooms cakes started as a way for a groom to incorporate his college pride to the wedding. School like Alabama, Auburn, Georgia, Texas A & M, Tennessee and many others are used as the theme for grooms cakes with an emphasis on their colors, mascots, and sports teams. Nowadays, grooms cakes can be just about anything. Grooms cakes don’t have to follow a theme or even try to be romantic. In fact, the crazier or more outlandish the cake the better. American culture is so absorbed with “cake culture” there are multiple tv shows like TLC’s “Cake Boss” and Food Network’s “Ace of Cakes” are dedicated to crazy cakes for all celebrations.

Speaking of crazy cakes, did anyone see this life sized Stormtrooper cake that Boston bakery Oakleaf Cakes made for the Arisia Sci-Fi Convention in Boston, MA. LIFE SIZED PEOPLE! Standing at 6 feet 4 inches, this cake…takes the cake (pun intended). Any groom who would get this cake and to his bride who would “let” him get it, you guys rock!

Photo Credit: Oakleaf Cakes. Check out more photos HERE

Anywho, I mentioned before how I believe having a cake at a wedding is a tradition that I will practice. I’m sure my non-groom Brandon would also want a fun cake too (if you guys ever meet him, you’ll know that having some sort of silly and funky cake is right up his alley), so when thinking of him, here are a few that I think he might like and you will too!

Canon Camera, Hamburger, Super Heros, Super Mario, Beatle’s Yellow Submarine, Nilla Wafers, Sushi, Wall-E

-Hilary

Photo Credit: Fleur de Lisa Cakes/Alisha and Brook Photographers

Over time the idea of a cake has slowly simmered down. The hot new trends of cake pops and dessert tables are taking the attention away from the grand art of cake decorating. Until I starting working with Momma Sasha, my proximity to beautiful cakes was limited to my birthday cakes which were always some sort of Disney theme from our local Safeway. The idea of having a big cake for a celebration was something I looked forward to, especially since I started seeing some amazing creations from Fleur de Lisa Cakes. Large, multitier cakes aren’t seen as a necessity as they once were when it comes to wedding traditions. The tradition of cutting the cake is now seen as an interruption in the party flow. So if there is no cake cutting, is there still a need for a traditional cake?

Yes.

While I am not a huge fan of cake, usually only eating a bite or two total (unless its a really delicious ice cream cake with a very specific kind of Safeway icing), having a cake at a wedding is about more than flavor. The art of baking and decorating a cake is a talent that takes skill and practice along with flowing creativity. Just like a florist creating center pieces and bouquets or a caterer dressing a plate of perfect fillet, a baker’s confection is the “icing on the cake” (pun intended) for their big day while treating their guests to another special treat for both the eyes and the taste buds.

Traditionally speaking, cutting the cake (or a loaf of bread back in Roman times) was the first thing a couple did together after getting married. Cutting and serving cake to guests was a united effort to share, invite, and thank guests for attending the wedding. With couples today picking and choosing what traditions to include in their event, I like the idea of keeping this tradition and since I know how much my non-groom Brandon loves cake, he would be on board, partying and cutting cake at the same time.

Just because couples choose to keep the traditional cake doesn’t mean a dessert table is out of the question. Cake bakers can still get creative on smaller dessert options without eliminating the idea of a main cake as well. A popular wedding magazine  recently suggested having a cake baker decorate one layer of actual cake along with multiple layers of styrofoam while then serving sheet cake to guests who would “be none the wiser”; marrying the idea of having a big cake while saving a few dollars. Sounds like a great idea, but what about having a smaller, yet main cake and lots of other little desserts? This way you can have different flavors and different looks that are tied together by the design of the main cake.

Another way to keep both the cake and the dessert table is to offer things that can be homemade like Grandma’s famous snickerdoodle cookie and Aunt Peggy’s fruit tart? Bringing in family recipes in potluck kind of way gives certain guests some importance and melds with the tradition of sharing your family with your guests. Having multiple kinds of desserts to make every guest happy still doesn’t mean a couple needs to negate a cake.

Here are some of my favorite cakes I have seen and their counterpart dessert options:

This three-tiered fondant cake covered in ombré colored candied hearts is simple and modern. The main cake can come in many sizes and can be supplemented by raspberry cheesecake bites and heart-shaped beignets.

Macaroons have been a trendy staple since the dessert table first became popular. These blue macaroons match the ruffled  three-tiered wedding cake. Another fun and tasty treat that is gaining momentum on the dessert table are churros. Add a fun colored dipping cup for the chocolate, a neat patterned paper napkin and churros can go with anything.

Chocolate is a favorite when it comes to desserts. Chocolate chip cookies especially. They are the perfect accent to this single tiered honeycomb chocolate cake. To make the chocolate more adult, top off the evening with a chocolate Guinness milkshake.

There are some cakes that take my breath away. This hand painted single tier cake is one of them. In an instance like that, I wouldn’t want to clutter the table with other rich desserts. Mochi ice cream, a Japanese dessert of ice cream inside “mochi”, pounded or pressed sticky/sushi rice, is one of my favorite desserts. bite sized in any flavor and (mostly) drip free, guests will love them. To take another more adult approach to dessert, cosmo jello shots are sure to keep the party going on the dance floor.

YUMMMMMMMMM!!!!!!

-Hilary

Photo Credit: Chris Duke/Westminster Kennel Club

Today is the first day of the 136th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show! For those of you who don’t know, I am currently working for Westminster and have been surrounded by all things dog related (and office related of course) for the past few weeks. This dog show isn’t just any dog show. This show is the big kahuna and the dog who wins the title of Best in Show tomorrow night will be the equivalent to Miss America in the canine world. Hickory, the Scottish Deerhound who won the title of Best in Show last year and other winners in years past are deemed the “perfect” dog have gone on to ring the closing bell of the New York Stock Exchange, ride on a float in the Macy’s Parade (which I have done as well but it wasn’t from winning top dog at a dog show) and even visiting the President at the White House.

But these dogs aren’t just any normal dog. They are groomed and trained to be the perfect dog and know how to behave around tens of thousands of people and with flashing cameras. These dogs are the pure bred, Mensa members of the dog world. Not everyone has a dog like these.

In the acting world, working with children and animals is always unpredictable just like it will be on your wedding day. A lot of couples think really hard about including children and which children in particular in their wedding. Although I am not a mother, I am a pet owner and as much as I would like to believe that my pet is well trained, I know she’s not. Granted my pet is a cat with a leaky eyeball (poor Gracie the Cat) and not a dog. Regardless, just because I love my pet doesn’t mean she needs to be in my wedding.

Yours truly with Gracie the Cat

For the sake of this post, let’s pretend that my non-groom Brandon and I have a French Bulldog named Rufus. We love Rufus dearly and he is for the most part a very well behaved dog. He doesn’t bite, but he is a scene stealer. Between his good looks that makes everyone a little tender and his ability to not always follow commands unless they are followed by the word “TREAT?”, he doesn’t make a good candidate for ring bearer. I would only worry that he would run up the aisle rather than down, pee on the linen, hump a guest’s leg, chew on a flower arrangement…the list goes on and on. This same list applies to some of my human family as well.

The next question is what do you do with the dog after the ceremony? What if your ceremony and your reception are held at the same venue? No one is going to go home and drop your dog off. You would need to find some sort of doggy sitter (which is not one of the duties of a wedding planner mind you!) What if you have a destination wedding? You would need to get a dog friendly hotel and keep your dog on a leash at all times. Are you incorporating your dog because s/he is a part of your family or to be trendy and because you think its cute? Real questions to ask yourself before throwing your dog a bone on your big day.

With that all being said, there are dogs that are well behaved and well trained just like the dogs competing in the Westminster Kennel Club this week. Loyal and behaved canines who obediently stand by their master/mistress’s side. Dogs who could have their own little bed with a special treat of cooked meats and veggies right by where their owners have their sweetheart table. Dogs that are big enough to be seen and not stepped on should the want to walk around the reception and mingle with the guests.

If this is your kind of dog, having him/her in your wedding is a lovely idea. Have the florist make a garland to go on the collar and leash that matches the other floral in your party. Have the ring bearer or flower girl walk the dog down the aisle and give him/her the responsibility of holding on to the dog through the ceremony. You could also dress the dog up in a doggy tux, but I know my non-groom Brandon would never allow Rufus to wear clothes.

There are ways to incorporate your beloved canine in your wedding, but be very sure and play devil’s advocate with yourself to make sure having your dog there is a good idea. Its not your coordinator or the assistant’s job to look after and clean up after your dog. Hire a handler or sitter or if you know of a friend who REALLY loves dogs (I’m looking at you Rachel Jones!) to be there and watch your dog on  your big day.

Doggie garland, Doggie wreath, Doggie tux

-Hilary

Last weekend I got to attend The Wedding Party New York with Martha Stewart Weddings presented by Claudia Hanlin’s Wedding Library. What an event! I have been to bridal shows before, but this one was full of New York’s elite wedding vendors.

Photo courtesy of the Wedding Library

 Claudia Hanlin’s Wedding Library is a great resource for Brides who have a general idea but are looking for some guidance and need some help getting their ideas off the ground and paired with the right vendors for their vision. This “research boutique” has an impressive catalog of select vendors that will meet any bride’s needs and vision. Many of those vendors were in attendance at The Palace where hundreds of brides and their guests got a first hand look at some of the best wedding vendors New York City has to offer.

I didn’t stay the entire day, so I missed the Bridal Fashion Show presented by Kleinfeld Bridal and Kleinfeld Men and the After Party which had live music and a single malt scotch tasting by The Macallan. I did however get to make my rounds to the different vendor showcases. The highlights for me were the different cakes. The infamous Sylvia Weinstock was there and such a doll. No only are her cakes amazing, but she really is a character. Some other cake bakers I was impressed with was the always kind Ron Ben-Israel and his always delicious cakes (the almond was my fav!) and Crème Delicious with their intricate and colorful henna inspired designs and tasty green tea cupcakes. My favorite was Heather Barranco Dreamcakes. These cakes were UNREAL! All these cakes are hand painted and have that beautiful water color look to them. There were a ton of cakes on the table, but the popularity of the cakes based on the way they looked made it hard to get a great shot. Once my eye caught a glimpse of the Dreamcakes, I had to try them. Now I’m not really a fan of cake, but Barranco makes a chocolate-banana cake that is like a party in my mouth. For some reason, the combo of banana and chocolate is so delicious and the samples of this flavor were flying off the plates. I’m not surprised either seeing as it is a favorite of Secretary of State Hillary Clinton (its a win from the Hil(l)arys!). To wash the rich cake down, Barranco offered milk to wash it down. Such a smart idea providing a shot of milk. When tasting a lot of cake, water or champagne just doesn’t do the trick. I wish there wasn’t so many people in front of the booth so I could sample more flavors and get a good shot of one of the amazing cakes!

Clockwise from Top Left: Crème Delicious’s henna style heart cake, vintage milk bottles to wash down the cake at Heather Barranco Dreamcakes, a small Alice on the side of the mad hatter style Alice and Wonderland themed cake, and the fashionable Sylvia Winestock and my busted self.

Another cool additive that I really loved was the food trucks out in the courtyard. The idea of catering with food trucks isn’t a new trend but it is in a metropolitan area like NYC. Food trucks as a lunch option are everywhere in NYC. Different from “street meat”, food trucks in NYC offer a unique outlet for faster food options. My favorite truck was the Gorilla Cheese NYC truck. Using cheese other than a Kraft single, I had a gourmet grilled cheese and a side of crispy tots. Most people wouldn’t think grilled cheese and tots are ideal for a wedding, but as a late night snack as your guests have danced the night away and are getting the munchies, this is a fabulous idea. If the Gorilla Cheese NYC truck is near my office, I will hobble down and get myself a grilled cheese!

Some other great vendor showcases were Anne M. Chapas, M.D., a dermatologist offering brief consultations with her state of the art skin technology. Blooming Quill Calligraphy was writing bride and grooms names (or anything else you wanted her to pen). Élan Artists showcased some really amazing music groups and performing acts for hire at events. One of their groups, Carte Blache performed before the Keynote and panel offering classic standards with a Parisian flair. Their vintage mid 20th century look and the soulful accordion were perfectly paired with the sultry Edith Piaf-esqe lead singer. Merci New York brought the beauty to bridal styling with their traditional and modern touches of jewelry and other accessories.

The best part of the Wedding Library event was the Expert Wedding Panel and Keynote. Before letting the brides and guests loose on the vendor showcases, we were herded into the ballroom to hear Claudia Hanlin and Darcy Miller of Martha Stewart Weddings speak and impart their wisdom on these newly minted brides. Because I was press, I got to sit nice and close. Darcy Miller’s keynote was full of great insite like once you have your location and date, everything else will fall into place; by focusing your energy on the location and date from the beginning, you will have a more accurate timeline and be more organized and focused on the overall vision. She also mentioned that you don’t have to follow all of the traditions that weddings usually demand. Martha Stewart’s nephew got married to his partner at Martha’s estate and did a simple afternoon ceremony and catered with an afternoon of specialty cocktails, catered with antipasta and pies for dessert with open seating. The wedding had a freedom and lightness to it that was true to the grooms and their guests didn’t go without. My favorite part was how Darcy showed her own wedding. Ten years ago, Darcy married the love of her life, Andy, and when she speaks of her big day, she speaks with pure joy and love for her husband and her wedding. The ultimate goal is to love your wedding when you look at it a decade later, you will still love every aspect of your wedding. Listening to Darcy speak and watching her face, you could tell she was still so much in love with her wedding. She preached not sweating the small stuff and picking your battles, but if you have great and reliable vendors, this won’t be a problem.

The Expert Wedding Panel was made up of both Darcy Miller and Claudia Hanlin, Southern California wedding planner Mindy Weiss, Amsale Aberra of Amsale Bridal, Syliva Weinstock, florist and designer Matthew Robbins, and innovative catering creator Peter Callahan. Unfortunately, my dear friend Randy Fenoli of TLC’s “Say Yes to the Dress” was sick and couldn’t attend. This panel was moderated by Z100 radio host Carolina Bermudez and allowed brides and guests to ask these wedding professionals some really great questions. Some of the questions brought forward some really informative answers. One bride asked whether or not skipping on lighting was a good place to cut her budget. Unanimously, the panel disagreed and stressed the need for good lighting. You don’t need to have LEDs and special gels, twinkle lights can do the trick. Matt and Sylvia suggested using fresh fruits and veggies along with seasonal flowers, props, candles and glass to help create grandeur and save money so you can have beautiful lighting and the beautiful tabletop.  Sylvia also mentioned being award of the weather when choosing a venue so the guests and vendors can prepare for what could happen on your wedding day. The panel also stressed the need for a good photographer. All event profs in the room nodded and agreed with that sentiment especially after the viral post about hiring a photographer. Having great photos are essential and if you do get those great shots, you could get published. Darcy pointed out that MSW is always accepting submissions. The entire panel was around after to sign their latest books for the brides and guests.

If I had one complaint abut the event it would be the space. To get to the different booths and really get information from the different vendors, you had to shove other people around. I understand the impressive nature of holding an event at The Palace, but the lack of space for the guests to move around left me frustrated and angry with the other guests. I get to play the sardine game on the Downtown 6 train every morning, I don’t want to do the same and miss the opportunity to meet up with a potential vendor. The event had promoted that grooms got to attend for free, but if I had brought my non-groom Brandon, he would have been frustrated and fed up rather quickly. My girlfriend Paulina brought her groom, John and he landed up winning the custom suit from Kleinfeld Men worth $3,500, so for him it was worth it to be crammed in with all these other people. Brandon, as patient as he is, would have tapped out before the event even started.

Regardless of the space issue, the information provided by the Wedding Library goes unsurpassed. As a bride, it is an event not to be missed. As a vendor, it is an event you want to be a part of. The next event Claudia Hanlin’s Wedding Library does, make sure you’re a part of it. If you’re a bride in NYC looking for a place to start or a little more info about vendors in the area, check out the Wedding Library!

-Hilary

Reddit.com also please read the little caption at the top…yikes!

Happy February Sparkly People!

I am so sorry I have been absent for a while. Things here got a little…broken. That is, I broke my foot…again…for the third time. Yup, that’s right, the same two bones in my right foot that have been pestering me since 2008, have proven that third time is the charm and this time I have learned my lesson. I was walking down the street, minding my business, when out of an orange colored sky (sorry, I had to!) my left BCBGirls pony haired leopard pumps (that I LOVED btw) split:

To prevent myself from tumbling down Grand St on the Lower East Side, I tried to catch myself by stepping out with my right foot. Well it didn’t work. I slammed into a bus stop and felt a searing pain in my right foot. So now rather than wearing my favorite pair of heels, I am now wearing this:

Wearing this boot is my punishment for not properly taking care of my feet when the bones were first healing. I guess in a way I like to torture myself by wearing high heels. I was always in pain, but if my legs and outfit look fierce, I thought it was worth it. Learning that my dancing days are over and surgery might be the next step, I am certainly going to take better care of my feet.

Since my dream of having Victoria Beckham’s feet is now in the trash, I can think of all the money I’ll be saving by not buying spiked Loubs, YSLs, and those beautiful beautiful Cole Haan Nike Air pumps that Momma Sasha and I are so fond of. It’s flats from now on and that includes my very far off in the distant future wedding day. I was really looking forward to pulling a Carrie Bradshaw and buying a fabulously expensive pair of blue shoes for my wedding day. Some of my favorite and most beautiful shots a photographer can take at a wedding are of the shoes and the ring. Shoes ground a person. They connect the body to the earth and how the architecture of the shoe looks on film is striking.

Not every bride wears heels on her wedding day, and luckily, its not hard to find great alternatives now a days. Flats, boots, and sandals are all great options. Depending on the bride and where the wedding is taking place, shoes that are closer to the ground might even be the better option. Lots of brides switch into flats later in the evening just like they would slip into a different dress that is easier to dance and party in.

Now that heels are out of the question for me, I started looking for cute flats to replace the heels I love so dearly, but never wear. The practicality of heels is nonexistent. I am either sitting at my desk or walking around the office all day, then I have to walk to and from work with taking the subway in the middle. Wearing 4″+ heels doesn’t make much sense. If you’re in business of selling your look, it does. I know a bunch of people that are known for the different spiked pumps they wear. For them to own or to be styled in sky high heels, it makes sense. For the rest of us, practicality is the way to go. You know how brides tell their bridesmaids they can always shorten the hem on their dress after the wedding? Well how about lowering the heel, ladies! Sure flats don’t lift the leg muscles to create flattering and long, lean legs, but on the happiest day of your life, how about being happy AND stylish while being comfortable? I like the sound of that!

Taking after Carrie Bradshaw, having your “something blue” be your shoes is a steady trend in bridal fashion and these Kelsi Dagger Haidee cut out flats have that perfect royal blue touch. The trend of vintage is really in this season, so these J.Crew oxford wingtip flats are right on trend. I am loving these yellow t-strap flats by See by Chloé as spring starts to bloom, the yellow will match with the mellow bride. When Christian Louboutin started designing shoes, the “Love” flats were his most popular, and they still are today making the “red sole” bride get the best of both worlds with these designer flats. These Moschino Cheap & Chic flats have a carnation like red chiffon heart on the top adding a bit of romance to accent the love you share with your new husband. Yves Saint Laurent has been known for making fabulous heels, but these YSL Love Ballerina flats are simple and chic and come in every color (the website only has black, white, and purple for sale) for you and all your bridesmaids. One of Princess Kate’s favorite designers ASOS has a fabulous pair of velvet bowed flats that are on sale right now that will leave your feet and your wallet dancing for joy. For the rock and roll bride, these studded Valentino flats are the perfect blend of naughty and nice.

So ballerina flats aren’t really your thing, but you still wanna go flat for the big day? Check these out!

I am obsessed with these Emilio Pucci gladiator sandals because they are intricate with the perfect blend of blue and green and lots of ankle support. These bowed flat espadrilles by Lanvin are so cute with their tealy-blue coloring and woven soles. If you’re having a beach wedding or just love coral and it’s color, these Prada sandals are humain while being stylish because the coral and shells on the shoe are human made, so no coral died to be a apart of your big day. Another bow, but a totally different style from Red Valentino make these pink sandals stand out. I am a sucker for jellies (reppin the 90′s kid inside!) so these Salvatore Ferragamo Barbados Jellies would be on my feet in a second. The red, yellow, and blue studs on these Vionnet sandals look like button candies making them extra sweet. I recently bought a pair of sparkly loafers like these Jimmy Choo Wheel Jazz flat loafers giving my feet that extra sparkle. To take it back to the plaid posts, these Louboutin tartan loafers with a silver paten toe can tie in the wedding theme and keep you comfortable. The ultimate in comfortable will always be TOMS, so whether you wear the crochet ones or any other Tom, you are sure to never be anything but comfortable and you’ll have a happy heart knowing that another person in a third world country is enjoying their TOMS as well.

Speaking of TOMS, they JUST launched their line of ballet flats that look incredibly comfortable and cute. A sure thing for your wedding party and your self on your big day. Do good in the world and have a great time doing it.

Click on the picture to go to the Toms website!

I am so in love with these flats, I think I’m gonna go buy those blue suede and black and canvas ones right now!

Stay (flat and) sparkly my friends!

-Hilary

Recently there has been a great article by Erie, PA based wedding photographer by Nicki Wagner of Nicki MayDay Photography going around the web about event professionals and what they charge for their services. Having been in the wedding world for a few years now and I like to think that I have a pretty good concept of what things cost and how much the value of a good photographer is worth every penny.

If you have ever questioned the value of a good photographer, want to understand what goes into being a professional photographer, are are an event professional, please read and share this incredible article and inform yourself.

Click on the image to read and share!

-Hilary

Happy Chinese New Year! 2012 is the year of the Dragon and so far has been an exciting one. I was raised with a heavy traditional Chinese influence, so this is one of my favorite holidays. The Dragon is the only of the twelve animals on the zodiac that is legendary, so 2012 is sure to be as well!

The smallest living national emblem of China, the peony is widely recognized as a positive symbol in Chinese culture. Everyone loves to celebrate holidays with champagne and by adding a fortune cookie to the flute dresses up and draws in the festive look. Personalizing chopsticks with engraving or printing the date or name are a great gift for guests. Paper lanters are often seen in Chinese culture, but by adding flowers in the shape of paper lanterns and hanging them above the guests brings traditional and modern party elements together. Lychee martini jello shots served in Chinese soup spoons gives a collegiate staple a little bit of class and Chinese flair. Paper umbrellas add a touch of Chinese culture and draw the eye up from the table and elongate the decor. A quipao is a traditional chinese dress that is most often worn as a wedding gown, but is more often a dress of celebration. My favorite chinese delicacy is a Char Siu Bao or more commonly known as a pork bun. Found in Chinese bakeries in bulk, this dim sum treat makes great late night snack that guests will love.

-Hilary

Make sure you follow our pin boards for all of Sasha Souza Events at the following links: – we’d love to have you join us!!

Sasha Souza – Owner & Event Designer + Wedding Mastermind

Mellysa Levy – Event Planner + Special Ops for Sasha Souza Events

Galen Coles - San Francisco based Wedding Planner + Event Ninja for Sasha Souza Events

Hilary Smith – Blog Editor for Sparkliatti + Event Planner for Sasha Souza Events

Photo Credit: AmericanCensorship.org

Recently, the internet has been all a buzz about SOPA and PIPA and how internet piracy needs to be taken more seriously and eliminated for the greater good of the American people. There are two side to every coin though. Some argue that these bills will prevent every American’s right to free speech and the First Amendment of the Constitution. Some argue these bills are preventing the stealing of  intellectual property which is not covered under the First Amendment. After reading a good handful of articles and debates and even the actual bills themselves (before I had to call it quits because I was going cross-eyed), I think I got a grasp on the whole situation.

STEALING IS WRONG.

Yup, that sounds about right. It’s something we have all heard since we were little and it doesn’t seem that hard of a concept to grasp. While I understand that the internet is a complex entity, the simple element of stealing can still be classified as wrong. It not only hurts the person claiming the work, but it could also affect the people who have used that website obtain any information.

When I read other wedding blogs, or any blog for that matter, most of them have a spot on the site that addresses the notion of not stealing. A lot of times, some even offer up their content as long as a link back to their original work can be found; an in text work citation if you will. If I were to write an article on how I created this marvelous center piece and used another person’s writing and picture, that’s stealing. I would have to take down the post and I would lose a lot of credibility with my sparkly people out there.

In a day and age where the internet is oftentimes used as a tool for employment (all us bloggers and social media mavens out there), stealing work is stealing intellectual property. According to IP Committee Chairman Rep. Goodlatte said:

 Intellectual property is one of America’s chief job creators and competitive advantages in the global marketplace, yet American inventors, authors, and entrepreneurs have been forced to stand by and watch as their works are stolen by foreign infringers beyond the reach of current U.S. laws.  This legislation will update the laws to ensure that the economic incentives our Framers enshrined in the Constitution over 220 years ago – to encourage new writings, research, products and services – remain effective in the 21st Century’s global marketplace, which will create more American jobs. The bill will also protect consumers from dangerous counterfeit products, such as fake drugs, automobile parts and infant formula.  I look forward to continuing to work with all parties on this important legislation as it moves forward.

While I found this quote on Wikipedia, it linked back to a Press Release from the United States House of Representatives Committee on the Judiciary web page. I didn’t steal the quote or not give the speaker the credit for saying these words. Try clicking on the underlined parts of that first sentence to see what I mean.

While wedding blogs aren’t trying to get you to buy drugs from Canada, the same idea applies for designers, photographers, and any of us who work hard to create pretty things. We deserve to have our work protected. When I see people posting Sasha Souza Events photos and designs, I get all excited. Obviously I recognize the work, so I don’t need a citation, but then when I think about it, I realize that just because I know doesn’t mean that everyone else out there who will see the work will know. What I love about Pinterest is how when I like something and I pin the photo, a link will automatically be attached to the photo, so no matter who sees it or repins it, that link will follow it forever. I will always know where that picture came from. Hopefully the website that originated the image will give credit where credit is due.

When it comes to speech and the written content, this too must be protected. Since elementary school, children are taught quotes. From every children’s book, they understand when a sentence is in the “two winks”, someone is speaking. This idea is forever ingrained in our mind, so taking those words and not using “two winks” or other appropriate citations to notify the reader the text is being quoted is also considered stealing. If someone wants to reblog any post, a simple link back is all that’s required; a little nod to the original writer to say thank you for writing something that resonated so deep that I needed to tell my followers as well. If it’s concerning censoring to prevent unsavory things from being said or written, the answer to that is, don’t read it if you don’t like it. If I want to quote something obscene, going against the majority beliefs system, I have that right as a United States Citizen to say it in any forum I choose, but I don’t have the right to claim I said or wrote something that I did not.

Censorship is becoming a hot button issue these days. The idea that our First Amendment rights will be taken away is terrifying to most people. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton was quoted in the New York Times saying:

When ideas are blocked, information deleted, conversations stifled and people constrained in their choices, the Internet is diminished for all of us…There isn’t an economic Internet and a social Internet and a political Internet. There’s just the Internet.

She is right. If Americans can’t access the information needed, how are we supposed to further educate ourselves? Because one person didn’t give credit for a quote or a picture, the whole site must be censored due to pirated material that is considered harmful to the reader. While I would like to relate Clinton’s quote to another hot button issue, marriage equality, I’ll stick with the censorship at hand. Who is to say what needs to be censored on the web? Sure smut and other lude content are reserved for the designated ages, but if I choose to break down the etymology of foul language and it’s appropriate or inappropriate use at a wedding, who’s to say that post won’t be censored by the appointed third party internet watchdog? Someone may need that information and may want to share it with more people.

Regardless of how you view each bill, know this: stealing any content on the internet is not okay. Taking away my work and claiming it for your own is not okay. If that simple concept cannot be recognized, stay away from my work. Sacking and pillaging a website for financial gain holds the same moral and judicial repercussions as stealing. SOPA and PIPA provide a stricter watch dog for the online community. No matter if you’re for or against the bills themselves, be against stealing. Hold yourself to a higher standard and take the time to simply site your source and give credit where it is due.

-Hilary

When I was in college (and sometimes now) and would throw an informal party, I would just make a Facebook invite and leave it at that; telling people there was going to be a party and if you show up great, if not, whatever. Your closest friends who were in on it would always come, but if that girl who was your chem partner for one lab didn’t respond or even show it was no biggie. Now that I’m no longer in college and take my party planning a little more serious, the need to have people respond to my invitations is causing me anxiety.

The concept of an RSVP is quite simple. Are you coming to my party or not? If you are, simply take the three seconds it takes to check yes and put the reply in the mail. If you are not, simply take the three seconds it takes to check no and put the reply in the mail. You have even been provided with a stamp on the return envelope! How hard can it be people?! Whether you’re coming or not, just the curtesy of letting the host know prevents unnecessary anxiety.

What guests don’t realize is the host spent time and money on the invite. The host is also spending even more time and money on the actual party. When budgeting out a party, it gets broken down by how much money per guest the host is spending. Guests need to understand that they are being treated to an evening geared for their enjoyment, so the polite thing to do would be to take the time to RSVP.

I don’t know what’s worse: those who don’t RSVP at all or those who RSVP past the RSVP date. Whenever I receive an invite to any event, I check my calendar, and if I’m free, I write it down and then send off my RSVP. If I’m not free, I send off my RSVP with deep regrets. I don’t let the invite sit on my desk until I decide that I can shift my life around. If there is a conflict and you haven’t responded to either, take two or three days to weigh your options, and then let both hosts know your intentions to attend their event or not. Don’t sit on invitations. A lot of times, hosts have reserve lists of people they would like to attend but they can’t invite them due to a tight budget. By declining the invite, it allows the host to invite other people. Sitting on an invitation is probably the rudest thing a guest can do.

So I propose we change the rules a little bit. When sending out RSVPs with the invites, we should add a penalty system for those who do not follow the elementary instructions to mail back their RSVP by the specified date. We send the offenders to RSVP Jail. It’s like a ticket or a penalty where they may lose their invite or better yet get banished from all future events that the  host should throw. No one likes to be excluded from a party, but if you violate the simple rules, the simple answer is you don’t get to attend the event.

I’m currently planning a happy hour/dinner for a group of my girlfriends. It was a last minute thing, but after a day or two I finally got the intended guest list. I spent hours working on a digital invite and emailed it out to all of them. So far, only eight have RSVPed. The girls who promptly responded knew they were unable to attend and said so while giving their reason why (unnecessary but greatly appreciated). The others only RSVPed after I sent out numerous emails and texts. Those girls responded to my email or text saying they’re attending. THAT IS NOT THE SAME! Just because you verbally said you were coming doesn’t exempt you from RSVPing to the official invite. This is a group of mid20somethings living in New York City who should know the proper etiquette of RSVPs as a few of them are getting married soon. I would never wish ill will on anyone, but hopefully they will soon learn and feel the anxiety of people who don’t RSVP in a timely fashion.

If I could send all these girls to RSVP Jail, I would, but alas, there would be no party if that were the case. People always tease me for needing a specific headcount and get annoyed when I hound them for a proper response, but you know what? No one ever complains that my parties are lacking in space, food, drinks, or anything else. We need to come up with a way to teach people how to be good party guests. We’re not in college anymore people! Until guests can learn how to properly RSVP, they’re all going to RSVP Jail.

Anyone else have any ideas or solutions to the RSVP dilema?

-Hilary

Britney Spears is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with. Whether she is topping the charts with the latest pop hit or the media is bringing back the “Bald Britney” days, she will always be America’s Sweetheart. She deserves a wedding that isn’t clouded in grandur or scandal. Her first marriage in Vegas to childhood friend Jason Alexander only lasted 55 hours and she was wearing torn jeans and a baseball cap. Her second marriage to dancer Kevin Federline was a typical over the top Hollywood wedding shrouded in secrecy.

Maybe third time’s the charm for Brit-Brit. She’s recently gotten engaged to Jason Trawick, her former agent and “Criminal” castmate.

The rumor mill is saying that they want a low key Southern wedding. Totally fitting seeing as Britney is from Louisiana. It really brings her back to her roots and make this union about family and growing some new roots of their own. With her family including her two adorable tots Sean Preston and Jayden James, Jason and Britney will be able to have some normalcy and leave behind her “chaotic” life and look forward.

I’m a big fan of the simplicity and elegance of this tabletop design for a southern wedding. Light and airy with different hues of glass balance the white, silver and gold in the table setting. Hanging individual lanterns in colored glass mason jars will float in the trees like fireflies in the trees. Beignets are the sweet Louisiana treat that is a perfect option for guests to munch on later in the evening, or even take away as a party favor. Britney loves her simple foods like burgers and fries, but why not spice it up with a pulled pork sandwich and some apple relish? It’s a healthier option that guests are sure to enjoy. To wash down the Southern food, pre-made traditional cocktails in mason jars readily available throughout the event is also a great way to beat the southern heat. For Britney’s first marriage, she went extremely casual and for her second she went for an over the top Monique Lhuillier gown. Since she has worn Monique Lhuillier before, a simple lace fit and flair by the designer is sure to be beautiful on Britney while complimenting the rest of her wedding. The official flower of Louisiana is the Magnolia, a sweet smelling flower that will bring Britney deep fond memories of her childhood growing up in the South. Of course when I think of the South, I think of the long driveway under a canopy of Oak trees leading to a white colonial plantation home. The Oak Valley Plantation has been the backdrop for many Hollywood movies so it is a fitting location in Baton Rouge, Louisiana where Britney can bring home a little bit of Hollywood for her big day.

This wedding will be anything but a “Circus” as Britney, this “Brave New Girl”, with her “Boys” by her side, finally gets her “Lucky” moment as a bride and has that essential “Heaven on Earth” moment.

Okay so that that’s at least one song title from each album, but “Would You Hold It Against Me“?………..”Oops I Did It Again“……

-Hilary

Since “Justin and Jessica Sittin’ in a Tree” was a hit, I thought I would do a few more celebrity weddinspriation boards this week. Celebrities and their weddings serve as inspiration for all us civilians who want to feel like a celebrity on the big day. Kate Middleton alone renewed all of the hottest trends. But not all brides and grooms want be a prince or princess.

Photo Credit: Outstage.com

The “Demon of Scream” himself Steven Tyler got engaged over the holidays to his girlfriend Erin Brady. Steven has always been known as a bada** rock and roller so its only natural to be “livin’ on the edge” on his wedding day. From what I’ve gathered about Erin Brady is she likes to take fashion risks and mirrors her fiancé’s style while giving their collective style some balance and refinement.

Brady, who is a model, would be stunning in this Alexander McQueen dress. The gold and ivory gown has accents of blush and takes a step away from the traditional bridal look which is perfect for a rock and roll wedding. Topping the look with a clean cateye and red lips and a birdcage veil add some sass that this fashionable bride. When you think rock and roll, you think dark colors, but the yellow tulip chandelier gives the darkness a pop of color and leaves the table clear for the guests to freely talk without the obstruction of flowers. Speaking of flowers, mixing the dark and light in the bride’s bouquet is the exact definition of rock and roll giving tradition a little leeway. I am a huge fan of gold flatware because it give a regal flair to the tabletop look. Putting the gold forks on top of a black sequined tablecloth makes the colors on the table really pop. Tyler is the lead member of the band Aerosmith, so naturally some of the guests like Dave Navarro, would be performing and entertaining to honor this Rock and Roll Hall of Famer and his bride. Since photobooths are all the rage right now, so using unusual props like funky hats and sunglasses take the look more rock and less circus. Clearly, Tyler knows how to have a bit of fun with some fun props! Tyler was diagnosed with Hepatitis C in 2003 after living with the disease for at least a decade. Since this couple already has everything, donating to research to the Center for the Study of Hepatitis C.

Here’s to this couple having a rockin’ wedding!

-Hilary

Photo Credit: ABC News via Wired Image

With all these rumors that Justin Timberlake finally put a ring on Jessica Biel’s finger, it is my late 90′s dream come true. My beloved curly headed *NSYNC-er and 7th Heaven’s hottest star may getting married! I think it’s only proper to give them a little inspiration board to get them in the mood for their planning.

Jessica has always been known for her rockin’ body. Her style at award shows is always sleek with a twist. The “Elma” from the Manuel Mota 2012 collection for Pronovias delivers with this lace sheath dress with slit sleeves and an embellished waistband. It’s different while being classy. Jessica moved around as a kid living in places like Minnesota and Colorado while Justin is from Tennessee. They both are athletic and outdoorsy, so naturally having natural wood as an accent to their decor. By filling vases with birch wood and even using it as a runner on the table will bring nature to their decor. Shrimp and grits are a souther dietary staple. Justin is from the South and Jessica has said that its good for a girl to have a little meat on her bones. Serving shrimp and grits is an unusual twist to the menu that guests are sure to enjoy. The photo wall in the middle is a Sasha Souza Events creation that is fun for everyone and makes really great memories that this fun couple will enjoy to years. Getting married outdoors just seems like the natural choice for this relaxed couple. As a restauranture, Justin’s “Southern Comfort” specializes in  ribs which are also a natural choice for their guests to nom on. The could were reportedly engaged in the Wyoming mountains and Jessica’s family lives in Colorado. Getting married in either of those places would give them a little more privacy to such an intimate celebration. Having chandeliers adds sophistication and elegance to the outdoor aspect. Suspending chandeliers from the canopy of trees will illuminate the reception and allow guests to dance the night away.

Best of luck to Justin and Jessica!

-Hilary

Morning Sparkly people!

Are you in the Bay Area and want to get 2 VIP Passes to The Wedding-Faire this weekend for 50% off? That’s right! For $35 dollars you get 2 VIP tickets that will give you access to the Expo Hall, design gallery, book signing, and celebrity meet & greet! You can meet the super sparkly Sasha Souza at this year’s Wedding Symposium and pick up a copy of her book Signature Sasha: Magnificent Weddings by Design all while seeing some of the latest trends up close!

To get tickets, click on the image. It is sure to be a great show and really get you inspired!

-Hilary

Ohhhh Lawdy I am so sorry for being away from you Sparkly people for so long! After a wonderful vacation spent with all the parental units in beautiful Northern California, I have now returned to the “feels like -2°” weather of New York City.

When I moved to my first state that had actual seasons, I was a little taken aback by the amount of snow that could fall from the sky. The first day it flurried I cried. The winter of 2006 was brutal in the rolling tundra of Cleveland, Ohio. But I learned, slowly, and found that even when it’s frigid outside, there is no excuse to sacrifice style. Finding great winter boots and coats along with cute hats, ear muffs and gloves is just as much fun to shop for as that cute sun dress, strappy sandals, and floppy hat. Being covered from the cold is key, so even if you think some article of clothing makes for a great outfit, being miserable in the cold is not cute. Trust me.

The same thing applies to weddings. Why would you want to spend all that money on a beautiful wedding to not be able to enjoy it because you’re so cold? Add a little more beauty and spice to your look all while adding a little warmth.

Kate Middleton scored with her knit shrug for her April 2011 wedding reception. Anthropologie offers a little sparkle for the sparkly bride with this sequins cover up. If you’re in a really cold part of the world for your big day, BHLDN offers a down vest to really keeps you warm. Another great BHLDN find is this lined lace cardigan. As a cardigan collector, this is a great option and you can easily relive your wedding day by pairing it with jeans. For the dramatic bride, this dress jacket can go over any dress and keep you warm at the same time. Like the lace cardigan, this cashmere wrap is sure to keep you toasty and warm while giving your look a little sophistication.

When you choose to have a winter wedding, make sure that you and your guests are covered, too. Even if you’re in a location that has moderately nice weather year round, when night falls, it can still get chilly and that may leave you and your guests uncomfortable. Obviously you can make sure that your venue is well heated when you do your final walk through and make sure there are plenty of outside heating lamps if you are having any part of your wedding outside. Your guests aren’t going to want to wear their puffy coats throughout dinner and dancing.

There are some really neat ways to keep your guests warm and happy. Offering pashminas for your guests is great because it will keep everyone warm and is a great favor. On the mean streets of NYC, you can get three pashminas in different colors for $10. Another way to keep guests toasty is to offer a fire pit (if your venue allows it) where they can warm up and maybe even roast a marshmallow or two and create s’mores! The easiest way to keep everyone warm and moving is to have your DJ play more upbeat hits rather than the crooners. The more people dance and move around, the blood will pump and keep the body warm.

Stay warm Sparkly people!

-Hilary

May you and your loved ones enjoy a wonderful celebration!

images by: Martha Stewart, BH&G, All Jewish Links, Decorations

NGCC, BH&G, Prudence Pennywise

Greetings from 10,000 feet! I am currently flying home for the holidays from the freezing cold of NYC (which currently is lacking the winter wonderland feeling and snow) to the chilly and rolling fog of the SF Bay Area! My poor cat Gracie is also making the trek and has been nothing but an angel this whole time.

Anywho, before I left the city, I was walking around with my man friend BTR, and I dragged him into a design institution near Union Square called NYC Carpet and Home. It is like a mecca of all things design. There are chandeliers and mirrors everywhere and no two things are exactly alike. It’s like design overload for the creative mind.

One of the displays, was a winter wonderland scape with blues, purples, and teals. There was white birch bark trees with hanging feathers and cotton bundles to make it look like falling snow along with strings of bedazzled hearts descending from the highest branch. 

I absolutely loved this display (minus the stuffed animals, I don’t know how that would go over as event decor) and it really inspired me to look at more winter wonderland “themed” inspiration for an event where maybe there wasn’t snow on the ground, just like in NYC or here in beautiful Northern California.

With a winter wonderland, there are so many DIY ideas and ways to save money. In winter, flowers aren’t in bloom, so using tree branches and candles would still create a lush yet simple setting to draw in the guests and still feel cozy. In the photo above, there are these really cute hearts with rhinestones on them. Sewing those and gluing on the jewels is a great DIY idea. Then hanging them from branches you either find our buy with fishing wire and trying groups of cotton or wool with some feathers give off the idea of snowfall.

I am a sucker for anything lace, so using lace is a great romantic and wintery idea. When choosing a lace pattern, go for more abstract patterns or a snowflake look as opposed to the more traditional eyelet or flower patterns. Bare wood is always a great idea. Using lighter woods like birch or white wood which comes from a spruce tree tend to match better than darker or redder woods. When picking floral, go for baby’s breath, pussy willows, and white roses. The elegance and tradition of the baby’s breath and the white roses with the offsetting and unusual pussy willow makes for a sophisticated combo. Don’t forget the twinkle lights to give your decor that extra glow!

Here’s a little inspiration board to get you in the winter wonderland mood!

I’m really digging the sleigh bells on the back of the wicker chair in the top left corner, what a novel idea just make sure the ball inside is out or it’s going to be one noisy party. The blue up lighting in the second from the second from the left on top lights the branches beautifully. The birch bark logs in the fireplace in the second from the right on top add a warm and cozy feel whether you have a fireplace or not at your event space is just an added bonus. Directly under is a simple center piece of roses and branches that have crystalized fake snow on them that would pair beautifully with a white lace tablecloth and blue underlay. To the upper right is the perfect gown for a winter wonderland wedding from the Oscar de la Renta 2012 Spring collection. The bottom left is a great idea for DIY decor backdrop by using cloth scraps, lace ribbon, beads, and streamers to accent the colors of a winter wonderland. An actual scene scape from a real winter wonderland would make for a great photo that all the guests could sign as a substitute for a guest book. To add the warmth and glow into what may be an icy decor, having candles inside the table numbers will do just the trick like the picture second from the right on the bottom. The bottom right is probably my favorite inspirational find because this table scape not only features grand chandeliers that accent the twilight outside, but there are fur throws on the back of every chair for the guests to keep warm and the candelabras along with the flatware and glassware all look like ice!

-Hilary