tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76552970887468248612024-03-14T00:12:57.836-07:00Fine Line Management & Eventswww.threedreamsent.comAleah + Nick Valleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448008115511942706noreply@blogger.comBlogger171125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655297088746824861.post-32197312316169641702010-07-29T22:33:00.000-07:002010-07-29T22:33:06.470-07:00A New Spin on an Old Tradition on Valley & Co.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">We are so excited about what's going on over at </span><a href="http://valleyandco.blogspot.com/2010/07/fresh-look-at-old-tradition-wedding.html"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Valley & Co. Stop by</span></a><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> and check out a tradition our lovely bride, Jennifer put a new spin on!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/TFJjZ52SzhI/AAAAAAAAERE/KFdjIEIL9wk/s1600/_MG_8527%5B1%5D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" height="267" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/TFJjZ52SzhI/AAAAAAAAERE/KFdjIEIL9wk/s400/_MG_8527%5B1%5D.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">*Photo from </span><a href="http://www.llanesweddings.com/"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Llanes Weddings</span></a></div>Aleah + Nick Valleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448008115511942706noreply@blogger.com37tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655297088746824861.post-29527594307152502962010-07-26T11:17:00.000-07:002010-07-26T11:17:54.464-07:00New: Timeless Vows on Martha's Vineyard<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/TE3Q-xRYamI/AAAAAAAAEKM/uKoVCyCyHGw/s1600/07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" hw="true" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/TE3Q-xRYamI/AAAAAAAAEKM/uKoVCyCyHGw/s640/07.jpg" width="428" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">We adore this charming Martha's Vineyard wedding and have some fabulous detail shots over on <a href="http://www.valleyandco.blogspot.com/">Valley & Co.</a> Have you been by yet? It's our lovely new inspirational blog, updated daily!</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Cheers, Aleah + Nick</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Photo from </span><a href="http://www.chungliphotography.com/"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Chung Li</span></a></div>Aleah + Nick Valleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448008115511942706noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655297088746824861.post-73325171098924005952010-07-20T22:26:00.000-07:002010-07-20T22:27:25.934-07:00Photo Love: Kate Murphy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/TEaCjQq6-eI/AAAAAAAAEG0/f9A28MmdPww/s1600/090620MARKAT0068.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" hw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/TEaCjQq6-eI/AAAAAAAAEG0/f9A28MmdPww/s400/090620MARKAT0068.JPG" width="266" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/TEaFJTaW_DI/AAAAAAAAEG8/JO7hWCWqeMs/s1600/090620MARKAT0066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" hw="true" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/TEaFJTaW_DI/AAAAAAAAEG8/JO7hWCWqeMs/s400/090620MARKAT0066.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Here's a sneak peek sweet shot from a lovely wedding from <a href="http://www.katemurphyphotography.com/blog/">Kate Murphy</a> we featured over on our fabulous new blog, <a href="http://www.valleyandco.blogspot.com/">Valley & Co.</a> Have you been by? We'd love for you to visit!</span></div>Aleah + Nick Valleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448008115511942706noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655297088746824861.post-73183633311287725572010-07-06T11:51:00.001-07:002010-07-07T14:37:00.105-07:00Charming Wedding Details: Meghan Aileen<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/TDN7HJq7XGI/AAAAAAAAD0c/bl6Qd7diKvo/s1600/MeghanAileen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Check out her gorgeous work </span><a href="http://www.meghanaileen.com/"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">here</span></a> <br />
<br />
<img border="0" height="512" rw="true" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/TDN7HJq7XGI/AAAAAAAAD0c/bl6Qd7diKvo/s640/MeghanAileen.jpg" width="640" />Aleah + Nick Valleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448008115511942706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655297088746824861.post-7002598701920211852010-05-14T20:45:00.000-07:002010-05-14T20:45:35.073-07:00<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We are looking for a summer intern! Please email us your resume if you fit the following requirements:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">• Must have catering or previous event planning experience; venue, vendor, and overall knowledge of the Greater Seattle area is a plus.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">• A university degree is a preferred; creative writing experience is important. We’re looking for a go-getter, a creative mind, and someone who can bring fresh ideas to the table.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">• We are looking for an intern to assist with events, contribute to our blog, and potentially come on board as a junior associate.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Email your resume with references to: info@<span class="goog-spellcheck-word" style="background: yellow;">threedreamsent</span>.com with the subject line: </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><em>Fine Line Management + Events summer internship</em></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Only serious inquiries who fit the criteria, please. Thank you!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div>Aleah + Nick Valleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448008115511942706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655297088746824861.post-13087933923673978862010-05-12T11:41:00.000-07:002010-05-12T11:41:40.768-07:00Spotlight on JM Cellars<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S-r1WhdJnvI/AAAAAAAACmM/Ys4VUitYgkg/s1600/JMCellars.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="91" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S-r1WhdJnvI/AAAAAAAACmM/Ys4VUitYgkg/s400/JMCellars.jpg" width="400" wt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S-r1dzNEiMI/AAAAAAAACmc/GiZSsilyAQ0/s1600/JMCellars3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S-r1dzNEiMI/AAAAAAAACmc/GiZSsilyAQ0/s320/JMCellars3.jpg" wt="true" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We're beyond thrilled that one of our lovely summer couples has chosen <span style="color: #674ea7;"><strong><span class="goog-spellcheck-word" style="background: yellow;">JM</span> Cellars</strong></span> in <span class="goog-spellcheck-word" style="background: yellow;">Woodinville</span> as their ceremony + reception site. It's such a charming space, and talk about unique! They have a lovely combination of indoor/outdoor space, and can host up to 120 for a reception-style soiree outdoors. Their sweet + rustic indoor space can hold up to 50 guests. Be sure to check out their<a href="http://www.jmcellars.com/"> site</a>! Cheers! <strong><span style="color: #a64d79;"><span class="goog-spellcheck-word" style="background: yellow;">Aleah</span> + Nick</span></strong></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S-r1hRER_FI/AAAAAAAACmk/-y4t0FJfd5M/s1600/JMCellars4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S-r1hRER_FI/AAAAAAAACmk/-y4t0FJfd5M/s320/JMCellars4.jpg" wt="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S-r1atd2fwI/AAAAAAAACmU/Nfp-WwkHx2A/s1600/JMCellars2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S-r1atd2fwI/AAAAAAAACmU/Nfp-WwkHx2A/s320/JMCellars2.jpg" wt="true" /></a></div>Aleah + Nick Valleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448008115511942706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655297088746824861.post-11660074213650651062010-05-11T18:31:00.000-07:002010-05-11T18:32:33.322-07:00Thinking outside of the box: a wedding flower market<div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">We were thrilled when the lovely ladies at <span style="color: magenta;">Nonpareil Magazine</span> wanted to see us create our out-of-the-box idea for wedding favors: a wedding flower market buffet. Our idea was inspired by the ultra popular (and tasty!) dessert buffets, but also by many travels to European flower markets. The lovely <a href="http://www.shannonleeimages.com/">Shannon Lee</a> came to our Southern California office and took all of the beautiful images. Stay tuned for more images and check out our entire spread <a href="http://www.nonpareilmag.com/featured/nonpareil-03-buffet-in-bloom/">here</a>. Enjoy! <span class="goog-spellcheck-word" style="background: yellow;">Aleah</span> + Nick</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S-oCouuO3QI/AAAAAAAACls/Y4nTAxkVrfQ/s1600/20100329-IMG_1567.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S-oCouuO3QI/AAAAAAAACls/Y4nTAxkVrfQ/s400/20100329-IMG_1567.jpg" tt="true" width="400" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S-oCrUqv0iI/AAAAAAAACl0/U0pLZCFudwU/s1600/20100329-IMG_1589.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S-oCrUqv0iI/AAAAAAAACl0/U0pLZCFudwU/s320/20100329-IMG_1589.jpg" tt="true" width="213" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div>Aleah + Nick Valleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448008115511942706noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655297088746824861.post-16243051946900762222010-04-28T21:04:00.001-07:002010-04-28T21:04:59.760-07:00Absolutely stunning Parisian wedding photos<div align="justify">It's no secret that I love, love, love <span style="color:#ff6666;">Paris</span> and anything Parisian or French (the food, the wine, the clothes, the architecture, the romance...). When I stumbled upon <a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.hawthornephotography.com">Noah Hawthorne's</a> images from this couple's <span style="color:#000000;">Parisian nuptials</span>, I fell in love even more! There really isn't much to say aside from "WOW." </div><div align="justify">Enjoy, <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error"><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Aleah</span></span><br /></div><p><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S9cm8f1IzBI/AAAAAAAACg0/-vPzxXUiwSU/s1600/Pariswedding5.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 287px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464879493615766546" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S9cm8f1IzBI/AAAAAAAACg0/-vPzxXUiwSU/s400/Pariswedding5.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S9cm8Nl4JBI/AAAAAAAACgs/dEFdQEcg81U/s1600/Pariswedding4.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 254px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464879488719922194" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S9cm8Nl4JBI/AAAAAAAACgs/dEFdQEcg81U/s400/Pariswedding4.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S9cmxtMbRzI/AAAAAAAACgk/o1FREXOflLc/s1600/Pariswedding3.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 287px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464879308224546610" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S9cmxtMbRzI/AAAAAAAACgk/o1FREXOflLc/s400/Pariswedding3.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S9cmwwb6o8I/AAAAAAAACgc/EK246WzchFQ/s1600/Pariswedding2.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 287px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464879291914953666" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S9cmwwb6o8I/AAAAAAAACgc/EK246WzchFQ/s400/Pariswedding2.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S9cmwvb5ysI/AAAAAAAACgU/85ngIJJVSGM/s1600/Pariswedding1.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 287px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464879291646462658" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S9cmwvb5ysI/AAAAAAAACgU/85ngIJJVSGM/s400/Pariswedding1.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S9cmwTlxdyI/AAAAAAAACgM/RhWkmOYViuM/s1600/Pariswedding.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 287px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464879284171667234" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S9cmwTlxdyI/AAAAAAAACgM/RhWkmOYViuM/s400/Pariswedding.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S9cmv4Ae_qI/AAAAAAAACgE/vTrCHyPCMtw/s1600/Parissubwaywedding.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 287px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464879276767510178" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S9cmv4Ae_qI/AAAAAAAACgE/vTrCHyPCMtw/s400/Parissubwaywedding.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S9cm8goShGI/AAAAAAAACg8/-jojbJ8DxYU/s1600/Pariswedding6.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 254px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464879493830313058" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S9cm8goShGI/AAAAAAAACg8/-jojbJ8DxYU/s400/Pariswedding6.jpg" /></a> </p>Aleah + Nick Valleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448008115511942706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655297088746824861.post-59703909076856924402010-04-25T21:02:00.000-07:002010-04-28T21:03:22.234-07:004 fun and easy summer favor ideas<div align="justify">Why not put a twist on the centuries-old tradition of wedding favors and give guests something a little unexpected? We're loving creating DIY-favor setups as they give guests a fun activity and a cool favor they'll be sure to use and remember.<br /><br /></div><p align="justify"><span style="color:#ff9900;"><strong>1. Signifying warm summer nights</strong></span>, collect mason jars and create a DIY-lemonade stand. Guests can fill mason jars with a gourmet lemonade mix, add fun accoutrements like striped paper straws or sprigs of rosemary, and take home a cute printed recipe card to make a vodka rosemary lemonade drink for those hot summer nights. Image from Getty Images<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S9XaZ_qLSTI/AAAAAAAACfk/7p7xDtLyQOY/s1600/lemonadestand.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464513863003883826" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S9XaZ_qLSTI/AAAAAAAACfk/7p7xDtLyQOY/s400/lemonadestand.jpg" /></a></p><p align="justify"><strong><span style="color:#cc0000;">2. Sure, this isn't a new idea, but we see guests really swoon over photo booths</span></strong>. A photo speaks a thousand words; give your guests the ability to dress up and act goofy in a photo booth and take home a copy of their snapshot. Dress up the booth with a cute summer backdrop and summer-time props. Image from <a href="http://summerpicnicwedding.blogspot.com/2009/11/photo-booth.html">SummerPicnicWedding<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 277px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464513867192741634" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S9XaaPQ4LwI/AAAAAAAACfs/a9kcwADlvVM/s400/summerpicnicwedding.jpg" /></a></p><p align="justify"><span style="color:#ff9966;"><strong>3. Have Grandma's apple pie recipe?</strong></span> Give each family or couple a pie-in-a-jar to take home and enjoy. Fill a mason jar with the ingredients needed, cinch with a fun checkered summertime ribbon, and attach Grandma's recipe. If you're having too many guests to make this doable, fill short mason jars with homemade jam. Image from iStockPhoto<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S9XbzCEfRMI/AAAAAAAACf0/XkqlBzXB1Vg/s1600/jaminajar.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 254px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 380px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464515392659473602" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S9XbzCEfRMI/AAAAAAAACf0/XkqlBzXB1Vg/s400/jaminajar.jpg" /></a></p><p align="justify"><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;">4. Like to play outdoors?</span></strong> Give guests customized frisbees to take home for summertime play! We have clients who are doing this for their July wedding and it's just such a fun idea! Check out Myflyingdiscs.com to personalize your frisbees!<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S9XbzjpZErI/AAAAAAAACf8/yk9caS2D6xU/s1600/myflyingdiscscom.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 200px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464515401672626866" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S9XbzjpZErI/AAAAAAAACf8/yk9caS2D6xU/s400/myflyingdiscscom.jpg" /></a></p><div align="justify"></div>Aleah + Nick Valleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448008115511942706noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655297088746824861.post-28491587989244104612010-04-19T12:20:00.001-07:002010-04-19T12:20:59.449-07:00Destination Wedding Planning, Part IIIn our <span style="color:#33ff33;">Monday Coffee</span> post last week, we laid out some tips to consider when thinking about a destination wedding. Once you've decided that saying <em><span style="color:#339999;">I Do</span></em> in a tropical or destination locale is right for you, think about this when starting the planning process:<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#339999;">1. When you are looking at hotels</span></strong> (the majority of destination weddings are held at resorts), think about how many guests might want to stay at the hotel. Talk with the hotel about what kinds of perks they will offer you and your guests based on the number of guests that stay. Often times this is a free room for you or an upgrade.<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;">2. Talk to different airlines.</span></strong> Many airlines (like Alaska) have perks or free tickets for brides and grooms who bring a certain number of flyers on their planes.<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff9900;">3. Plan ahead for your rehearsal dinner as well.</span></strong> If you take a pre-wedding trip to the destination, check out all possibilities for other activities like snorkeling, shopping, dining, and even locations for your rehearsal dinner or other welcome activities for guests. Again, negotiate with these places and restaurants for any perks based on the number of guests you bring them.<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ffcc33;">4. Again, negotiate.</span></strong> Many resorts have pre-picked wedding packages that very well might not suit you. Don't hesitate to ask about swapping their in-house photography package for a larger reception dinner for your guests. Resorts want your business and are likely willing to be flexible with what they offer.<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#00cccc;">5. Know what is required.</span></strong> In Mexico, for example, you will need to have a blood test approved before you tie the knot. This can be done at your resort by their on-site doctor and is simple, but you will likely need to be in Mexico at least three days before your wedding.<br /><span style="color:#000000;">As always, Happy Planning!</span><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S8x_OiOIsnI/AAAAAAAACdU/WUT39-rmTLY/s1600/DSCN5496.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461880335774560882" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S8x_OiOIsnI/AAAAAAAACdU/WUT39-rmTLY/s400/DSCN5496.JPG" /></a><strong><span style="color:#33ff33;">Aleah + Nick</span></strong>Aleah + Nick Valleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448008115511942706noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655297088746824861.post-5200354327762030642010-04-18T10:13:00.001-07:002010-04-18T10:13:55.961-07:00Inspiration: Yucatan PeninsulaWhenever we travel (or do anything!) I look around to get inspiration. It comes from flowers, people, clothing, buildings, <span style="color:#339999;">the ocean</span>, and virtually everywhere I look.<br /><br />I wanted to share a few photos of inspiration I snapped on our recent trip to the <span style="color:#3366ff;">Yucatan Peninsula</span>. You can see that my mind was focused on all of the gorgeous tones of blue - aqua, turquoise, navy....I hope you enjoy!<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S8s7sesAzII/AAAAAAAACdM/Kb2unKC7zjI/s1600/DSCN5672.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461524608454806658" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S8s7sesAzII/AAAAAAAACdM/Kb2unKC7zjI/s400/DSCN5672.JPG" /></a><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S8s7sOCUqbI/AAAAAAAACdE/6bUHaXf9zOQ/s1600/DSCN5855.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461524603984980402" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S8s7sOCUqbI/AAAAAAAACdE/6bUHaXf9zOQ/s400/DSCN5855.JPG" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S8s7rmVsQLI/AAAAAAAACc8/zm9QRI0Gu4A/s1600/DSCN5571.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461524593328799922" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S8s7rmVsQLI/AAAAAAAACc8/zm9QRI0Gu4A/s400/DSCN5571.JPG" /></a>The water on Isla Mujeres <div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S8s7qzLrm1I/AAAAAAAACc0/9Yo_cYopeyg/s1600/DSCN5443.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461524579596606290" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S8s7qzLrm1I/AAAAAAAACc0/9Yo_cYopeyg/s400/DSCN5443.JPG" /></a>Stay tuned for <span style="color:#33cc00;">Part II</span> of our destination wedding planning tips and some<span style="color:#33cc00;"> tropical vision boards</span> based on this inspiration.</div><div><span style="color:#339999;">Cheers!</span><br /><div><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Aleah</span></div></div></div>Aleah + Nick Valleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448008115511942706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655297088746824861.post-50423841413578469432010-04-12T10:12:00.000-07:002010-04-18T10:13:22.878-07:00Monday Coffee: destination weddings Part IWe just love destination weddings and happen to be typing this <span style="color:#339999;"><strong>Monday Coffee</strong></span> post from our deck on the <span style="color:#ff6600;">Yucatan Peninsula</span>. I thought it would be fitting to offer up a few quick tips to help you determine whether a destination wedding is right for you:<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#339999;">1. Location, location, location:</span></strong> deciding on a location should be based on a few key elements. Where do you love to travel to? We see the most popular destination wedding locales as tropical settings. Consider the type of hotel; will your guests be comfortable and is the hotel affordable? What are the amenities like? Think about the close proximity to airports, towns, and other activities. Select a location that has great reviews for both service, restaurants, a gorgeous setting, and stellar wedding services.<br /><br /><span style="color:#009900;"><strong>2. Keep in mind that a destination wedding</strong></span> very well might not be less expensive than an in-town wedding. If your guest list grows and you take into consideration travel expenses to-and-from several times, the costs can elevate. However, if you do it right you can end up saving a great deal of money.<br /><br /><span style="color:#00cccc;"><strong>3. Will you be happy not having a 200-guest wedding? </strong></span>Chances are if you invited 200 guests to your nuptials in Costa Rica they couldn't all attend. But keeping it simple can feel so good and celebrating with your close family and friends in a tropical (or other) locale can be the best type of celebration. Consider whether you'll have a hankering to throw a post-wedding bash when you return for those who couldn't make it.<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">4. A</span><span style="color:#cc0000;">long with #1, really be sure to know</span></strong> <span style="color:#cc33cc;"><strong>what </strong></span>the hotel offers you for your wedding. We have seen our fair share of destination venues that simply have you pick your flowers or cake from their standard "look book" and don't stray too much from offering those designs. If you're fine with this then this type of venue provides a level of simplicity. If you still want to have a unique design, look, and feeling, be sure to relay this to your coordination team (or the on-site staff); as many destination hotels will still provide that level of simplicity but will bend over backwards to create a stunning look that isn't like other weddings.<br /><p>A snapshot from last night's <span style="color:#ff6666;">gorgeous</span> wedding at the Omni Hotel</p><p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S8McS4R1N5I/AAAAAAAACcs/vpLMbW2OHyA/s1600/DSCN5485.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459238283973572498" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S8McS4R1N5I/AAAAAAAACcs/vpLMbW2OHyA/s400/DSCN5485.JPG" /></a><span style="color:#00cccc;"><strong>5. Ask the hotel</strong></span><span style="color:#000000;"> how many other weddings might going on during your wedding weekend. Though this is a great question to ask at <em>any venue</em>, destination or otherwise, we've seen many destination hotels say that they might have 5 or 6 weddings going on at one time. While this might be okay for some people, most of our clients want their wedding to be the only big show that day.</span></p><p><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;">6. Finally, consider the level of privacy you want</span></strong> and find a venue based on what they offer. Think about a tropical destination setting; you very well might have people walking by as you are saying "I Do" in their bathing suits.</p><p><strong><span style="color:#00cccc;">Stay tuned for Part II:</span></strong> Hotels love weddings and as a result will likely offer you room upgrades, perhaps free nights depending on how many of your guests stay.........................</p>Aleah + Nick Valleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448008115511942706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655297088746824861.post-28679413307414603872010-04-03T11:38:00.000-07:002010-04-03T11:57:31.231-07:00Dress fun for the ladies!<div align="justify">I thought it would be fun to dedicate today to all of you ladies looking for some lovely, chic, and fun confections for spring! I've whipped up 4 different color <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">combinations</span> featuring some stunning Spring 2010 dresses from <span style="color:#339999;">Vera Wang</span> and <span style="color:#66ff99;">J. Crew.</span><span style="color:#000000;"> All of these combinations are inspired by some of our lovely current brides so I hope you enjoy!</span></div><p align="justify"><br /> </p><div align="justify"></div><p align="justify">This palette was created for one of our <span style="color:#00cccc;">darling</span> summer brides who wants to keep her wedding look understated and soft.<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S7eODnp3HPI/AAAAAAAACZM/-gSzSXBRKms/s1600/Seafoam2.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 145px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455985666417958130" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S7eODnp3HPI/AAAAAAAACZM/-gSzSXBRKms/s400/Seafoam2.jpg" /></a> I love these silver rings from <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Ringoblog</span> and this <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-corrected">sea foam</span><span style="color:#339999;"> ethereal</span> dress from <a href="http://www.jcrew.com/">J. Crew </a> <em>Taryn</em>, $395, and this Chloe organza light ivory linen from <a href="http://www.wildflowerlinens.com/">Wildflower Linen</a><br /><br />The texture of this stunning Vera Wang <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error"><em>Dovima</em></span> dress would look stunning with Isabella blush linens from Wildflower Linen and a combination of <span style="color:#ff6666;">textured blush</span> and <span style="color:#cc66cc;">lavender roses</span>. This was created for our bride who wanted a classic, sweet look. <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S7eOVuV8-tI/AAAAAAAACZU/M2aYrSM_YQw/s1600/VeraWangBlush2.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 155px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455985977451150034" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S7eOVuV8-tI/AAAAAAAACZU/M2aYrSM_YQw/s400/VeraWangBlush2.jpg" /></a>*rose photo from theknot.com<br /><br />For our <span style="color:#993399;">funky bride</span> who wants a unique, out-of-the-box look, I pulled together this vibrant Chloe <span style="color:#663366;">eggplant</span> organza linen from <a href="http://www.wildflowerlinens.com/">Wildflower Linen </a>with this chic $58 single pearl strand necklace from <a href="http://www.anntaylor.com/">Ann Taylor </a>and an adorable $180<em> Juliet</em> dress from<a href="http://www.jcrew.com/"> J. Crew</a>.<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S7eOkLEFv6I/AAAAAAAACZc/4r_szvcWVb4/s1600/VeraWangSpring2.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 147px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455986225679024034" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S7eOkLEFv6I/AAAAAAAACZc/4r_szvcWVb4/s400/VeraWangSpring2.jpg" /></a>For the last look of the day I wanted to share a <span style="color:#000099;">whimsical</span> style I put together for a fun and <span style="color:#339999;">carefree</span> bride. <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S7eO1TihZSI/AAAAAAAACZk/ZoRaRSvVI3M/s1600/WhitneyJCrew2.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 155px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455986520011924770" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S7eO1TihZSI/AAAAAAAACZk/ZoRaRSvVI3M/s400/WhitneyJCrew2.jpg" /></a>With a simple, yet gorgeous wedding dress she is able to punch up her look with color or some fabulous jewelry.Curly willow peacock linen from <a href="http://www.wildflowerlinens.com/">Wildflower Linen</a>, <em>Whitney</em> gown from <a href="http://www.jcrew.com/">J. Crew</a> $395, and crystal <em>supernova </em>necklace from J. Crew, on sale for $98 </p><p align="justify">Enjoy!<span style="color:#ff99ff;"> </span><span style="color:#ff6666;">Aleah</span></p>Aleah + Nick Valleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448008115511942706noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655297088746824861.post-9087576672044489062010-03-29T21:31:00.001-07:002010-03-29T21:31:39.817-07:00Monday Coffee: getting a jump-start on your guest listWe know that just the thought of starting your guest list for your wedding can make anyone shudder. Unfortunately this is one area where we really can't help our clients too much, but we would love to share our <span style="color:#339999;">Top 5 Tips</span> for getting started:<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#993399;">1.</span></strong> be sure to have some budget parameters laid out so that you have an idea of how many guests you can afford to invite and have attend.<br /><br /><span style="color:#00cccc;"><strong>2.</strong></span> don't over think. Simply start writing down names of your family (moms, dads, grandparents) and dearest friends and work your way out from there.<br /><br /><span style="color:#009900;"><strong>3.</strong></span> please take note; do <em>not</em> count on someone not attending and send them an invitation! If you feel obligated, send someone an announcement after the wedding. We have seen so many brides and grooms <em>think </em>that a dozen distant family members aren't going to trek cross-country and send out invitations. Surprise when they RSVP yes!<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#cc0000;">4.</span></strong> be mindful of whether your parents will be inviting guests and be sure to lay out a clear number of how many you will all be inviting so that your lists mesh.<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;">5.</span></strong> possibly my favorite piece of advice that Nick gives to our clients: do not invite someone to your wedding whom you would not feel comfortable taking out to dinner. Simple as that. By the time the total budget is calculated, each invited guest can cost several hundred dollars to feed, entertain, and give cake and favors to. If you don't know this person well, consider skipping an invitation. Try to imagine your wedding <em><span style="color:#339999;">with</span></em> and <em><span style="color:#ffcc33;">without</span></em> the guest in question. If you wouldn't necessarily miss them at the wedding, do not feel obligated to invite them.<br /><br />Happy Planning! Aleah + NickAleah + Nick Valleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448008115511942706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655297088746824861.post-23647238025839889812010-03-25T11:01:00.001-07:002010-03-25T11:01:45.872-07:00Floral forecast from Ariston Flowers in New YorkWhen we were in New York in January we attended Bridal Bootcamp from the<a href="http://www.weddingsalon.com/"> Wedding Salon</a> and met Christian from <a href="http://www.aristonflorist.com/">Ariston Flowers</a>, a floral studio providing gorgeous creations for over 30 years. We asked her to provide us with a<span style="color:#339999;"> spring floral forecast</span> and love her predictions!<br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S6ryFJ4QfvI/AAAAAAAACT0/MywkyyOzh9I/s1600/pure+whites.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 268px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452436469250555634" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S6ryFJ4QfvI/AAAAAAAACT0/MywkyyOzh9I/s400/pure+whites.jpg" /></a>"I have to admit that I think the times of modern sleek design are waning as the demand for more garden styles are increasing, that is still within good design. Pave, or low and compact will always be in demand because of it's classy and elegant form. It's simple and best kept that way, with just a few elements to let the flowers do the talking.<br /><br />That isn't to say that people are interested in bringing traditional English garden style of arranging back either, as that is what our grandparents would be proud of. And most of us don't want the type of arrangements found in Renaissance paintings.<br /><br />I feel this is the year of bringing flowers back into flowers! No more outrageously priced minimal sculptures out of flowers, but more of an elegant use of what the flower already provides."<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S6ryF8zX4rI/AAAAAAAACUE/UUiQSn2vB3Y/s1600/deeply+red.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 335px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452436482920276658" border="0" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S6ryF8zX4rI/AAAAAAAACUE/UUiQSn2vB3Y/s400/deeply+red.jpg" /></a><br /><br /><div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S6ryFsZ3wqI/AAAAAAAACT8/gCvaT-ZCBi0/s1600/delightful+yellow.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 268px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452436478518346402" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S6ryFsZ3wqI/AAAAAAAACT8/gCvaT-ZCBi0/s400/delightful+yellow.jpg" /></a>Thank you so much, Christian! We are thrilled spring has sprung!</div><div><span style="color:#33cc00;">Cheers! Aleah + Nick</span> </div></div>Aleah + Nick Valleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448008115511942706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655297088746824861.post-50342236562525567632010-03-23T10:37:00.001-07:002010-03-23T10:37:49.157-07:00Tuesday Tips: Lighting with candlesAt most weddings we see our clients use candles of some sort to illuminate the ceremony and reception, giving a warm and romantic glow. Here are few tips and ideas to remember when thinking about using candle light:<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#009900;">1.</span></strong> try to stray from using tea lights in containers with moss or anything really flammable. We've heard stories about things catching fire! Floating candles have a unique effect and are much safer.<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S6j6IRecMBI/AAAAAAAACS0/uFAOPty2ODA/s1600-h/Emily_%26_Ryen_RCPT_046.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451882368968962066" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S6j6IRecMBI/AAAAAAAACS0/uFAOPty2ODA/s400/Emily_%26_Ryen_RCPT_046.jpg" /></a><span style="color:#339999;"><strong>2.</strong></span> if your venue doesn't allow for a real flame, you can use LED candles; though not the real thing, if you have them hanging or clustered together they can emit a glow<br /><strong><span style="color:#ff6666;">3.</span></strong> if your wedding is outdoors, hang tea lights from trees in mason jars secured with wire or ribbon. Talk about a magical effect!<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S6j6GykG2PI/AAAAAAAACSU/TVE_IsA5SM4/s1600-h/bridaldazewordpress.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 310px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451882343491361010" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S6j6GykG2PI/AAAAAAAACSU/TVE_IsA5SM4/s400/bridaldazewordpress.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="color:#33cc00;">4.</span></strong> if using taper candles, be sure they are not close to any part of your floral! Trust us; we've seen a near disaster with a candle that was placed too close to a centerpiece. Also be sure you have something to catch the wax so it doesn't drip and ruin the expensive linens!<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S6j6HGM1eYI/AAAAAAAACSc/yqyHC4TBWXw/s1600-h/elsechelseatypepad.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 330px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451882348762462594" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S6j6HGM1eYI/AAAAAAAACSc/yqyHC4TBWXw/s400/elsechelseatypepad.jpg" /></a> <strong><span style="color:#6633ff;">5.</span></strong> purchase candles that have at least a 6-8 hour burn; you don't want the flames going out mid-party!<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S6j6H_vXkyI/AAAAAAAACSs/ymRsAjINHK8/s1600-h/amy-taper-candle-centerpiece-1.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451882364208124706" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S6j6H_vXkyI/AAAAAAAACSs/ymRsAjINHK8/s400/amy-taper-candle-centerpiece-1.jpg" /></a><strong><span style="color:#663366;">6.</span></strong> get creative - scatter various colored vessels (like glassybabies) down the center of your family-style table for a pop of color<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S6j6HvEVYpI/AAAAAAAACSk/TMGmFhg2mNc/s1600-h/glassybaby%2520on%2520the%2520lake.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451882359732658834" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S6j6HvEVYpI/AAAAAAAACSk/TMGmFhg2mNc/s400/glassybaby%2520on%2520the%2520lake.jpg" /></a>Happy Planning!<br /><span style="color:#ff0000;">Aleah + Nick</span><br /><br />Images 1: from Emily + Ryen's wedding by <a href="http://www.amorestudios.com/">Amore Studios</a> 2. from theknot.com 3. from elsechelsea.typepad.com 4. studio nine photography 5. glassybaby.comAleah + Nick Valleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448008115511942706noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655297088746824861.post-62389275709084014732010-03-20T10:02:00.001-07:002010-03-20T10:02:26.544-07:00Invitation Etiquette with the Lovely Emily Ley<div align="justify">Today we turned to owner of <span style="color:#339999;"><a href="http://www.emilyleypaper.com/">Emily Ley Paper</a> <span style="color:#000000;">and talented stationer,</span> </span>Emily Ley, for some honest invitation etiquette answers to those sometimes unclear etiquette questions. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S6EA97O_9SI/AAAAAAAACQ0/LNeQgJRKebM/s1600-h/Annabelle_Inv.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 262px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449638087967634722" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S6EA97O_9SI/AAAAAAAACQ0/LNeQgJRKebM/s400/Annabelle_Inv.jpg" /></a><br /><strong></strong><br /><strong>1. What is the key piece of advice you'd like to lend to brides and grooms when starting to design their wedding suites?</strong><br />Look for designs that fit your personal style - designs that when you look back at them with your children and grandchildren one day, you see a "love story" unfolding, instead of "whatever was trendy" for the time being. Look for colors and layouts that are functional first - and convey the information you're sharing. Remember that your invitation is your guests' first glimpse at the biggest day of your lives thus far.<br /><br /><strong>2. Do you prefer traditional wedding invitation wording or something a bit more modern?</strong><br />These two styles can be mixed together in beautiful ways - I once worked with a bride who was very traditional but FULL of personality. Her invitation and response card were very traditional - but at the bottom of the response card we inserted "DJ play my song __________________" to add a fun element and bring her personality into the pieces. The guests LOVED this and the bride passed the song requests on to their musicians at the reception.<br /><br /><strong>3. We were brought up to write a thank you note for most anything and know how important they can be. What might you recommend for those who aren't akin to writing thank you notes? What is the proper timing etiquette for writing thank you notes for wedding gifts?</strong><br />Always, always, ALWAYS write thank you notes. Always. For your wedding and shower gifts, its customary to have your thank you notes mailed no later than one month after the wedding. I was once told (and never forgot this...) to never underestimate the power of a thank you note. Your thank you notes don't have to be long and verbose, just sincere messages of thanks to someone who took time to do something special for you. Write thank you notes not just for gifts, but to the vendors and special helpers who played a roll in your big day as well.<br /><br /><strong>4. How do you propose a couple deals with an uninvited guest whose name shows up on the response card (i.e. a cousin's girlfriend when it was only the cousin's name on the actual invitation)?<br /></strong>This is why all my wedding suites come with double envelopes. This is hard to avoid without an inner envelopes. The outer envelope is used for the mailing address and the inner envelope bears the name of the person (or people) to whom the invitation is directly addressed. But generally, when these things happen, my advice is to "roll with it." If this only happens with a few guests, it wont put you too far over your guest count. If you do happen to push past your limit of attendees, politely and informally discuss the situation with the guest. Perhaps the "plus one" can join you at the reception if the ceremony venue is past capacity?<br /><br /><strong>5. Can you please explain what's appropriate to include and not to include in wedding invitations?<br /></strong>In your suite, you want to include<br />- the hosts' names<br />- the bride and groom's names<br />- date and time<br />- venue address<br /><br />I start to itch when wedding websites and registry information find their way onto the invitation. Enclosure cards are perfect for bearing website information. Registry information is not appropriate anywhere in the suite. Look at your suite as if you were a guest attending another wedding. What kind of questions might they have? Do they know where to be and when? How to RSVP?<br /><br />Wedding invitations should introduce the biggest day of your life thus far - remember to keep your verbiage minimal and special. Additional information can be tucked in welcome bags, included in the ceremony program or listed on the wedding website. Choose a design that is timeless and special. Add personality with special touches like calligraphy, vintage postage stamps or envelope liners. Above all - choose something that will be representative of your love story. And work with a stationer who will take those things to heart when designing your suite.<br /></div><p align="justify"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S6EA-Q0wWsI/AAAAAAAACRE/uH5w9rrIXC4/s1600-h/Invitation.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 267px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449638093763140290" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S6EA-Q0wWsI/AAAAAAAACRE/uH5w9rrIXC4/s400/Invitation.jpg" /></a><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S6EA-MxI5zI/AAAAAAAACQ8/6hmPCay_KdA/s1600-h/frontpage.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 266px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5449638092674230066" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S6EA-MxI5zI/AAAAAAAACQ8/6hmPCay_KdA/s400/frontpage.jpg" /></a></p><p>Thank you so much, Emily! We appreciate your expert advice! *Be sure to visit Emily's sweet <a href="http://www.emilyley.com/">website</a> and her informative <a href="http://www.emilyleypaper.blogspot.com/">blog!</a></p><p><span style="color:#ff0000;">Aleah + Nick</span></p>Aleah + Nick Valleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448008115511942706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655297088746824861.post-27906404238008108022010-03-20T10:01:00.001-07:002010-03-20T10:01:36.249-07:00Something borrowed, something blueMuted<span style="color:#66cccc;"> icy blue </span><span style="color:#000000;">is my favorite color and is just so magical. We</span> even incorporated the tone into our own wedding. My dress sash was icy blue, as were my bouquet accents and hints of our invitations. There's something so elegant, <span style="color:#339999;">timeless, and unique</span> about this color. So in sticking with the old adage, S<em><span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">omething</span> old, something new, something borrowed, something blue,</em> why not wear a pale, icy blue wedding dress?<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S5ZxzOC7v8I/AAAAAAAACO8/1uAgaytZsQo/s1600-h/bluedresses.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 206px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5446665924108861378" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S5ZxzOC7v8I/AAAAAAAACO8/1uAgaytZsQo/s400/bluedresses.jpg" /></a><span style="color:#66cccc;"><strong>1</strong>.</span> Dress from <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">JLM</span> Couture<span style="color:#339999;"><strong> 2.</strong></span> Image from <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">redhotbrides</span>.com<span style="color:#336666;"><strong> 3.</strong></span> Image from <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">BridalwaveTV</span><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S5ZxzrBpbGI/AAAAAAAACPE/7FbznhwR3kI/s1600-h/Stelladot.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 207px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5446665931888094306" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S5ZxzrBpbGI/AAAAAAAACPE/7FbznhwR3kI/s400/Stelladot.jpg" /></a>Pair your gown with any of these statement pieces from <a href="http://www.stelladot.com/clairemalone">Stella and Dot jewelry</a> -<span style="color:#336666;"><strong> 1.</strong></span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Bardot</span> Flower $39 <span style="color:#339999;"><strong>2.</strong></span> Glitz flower earrings $39 <strong><span style="color:#66ffff;">3.</span></strong> St. <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Tropez</span> statement necklace $178<br /><span style="color:#ff6666;">Cheers! <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Aleah</span></span>Aleah + Nick Valleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448008115511942706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655297088746824861.post-80498512115582695792010-03-08T11:12:00.001-08:002010-03-08T11:12:34.536-08:00Monday Coffee: our Top 5 Tips for staying calm, cool + collected during planningWe can't stress enough: it's so important to<span style="color:#009900;"> have fun</span> during your wedding planning process. We aim to make each and every meeting with our clients refreshing and lighthearted, whether we're tasting cake or talking logistics.<br /><br /><strong>1. Stay organized.</strong> This tip is so important -<span style="color:#336666;">Google</span> has some great budget, layout, checklist, and other spreadsheets (<a href="http://www.google.com/google-d-s/wedding/">here</a>) to keep you on track. Buy some sort of notebook or filing system where you can store <span style="color:#ff6666;">fabric swatches</span>, paper samples, and magazine pages or photos you like. *this notebook is from <a href="http://www.mindyweiss.com/">Mindy Weiss<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 280px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 280px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5446320953215785890" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S5U4DRUxm6I/AAAAAAAACO0/y-IfFt6lN00/s400/notebook-with-wedding-schedule.jpg" /></a><strong>2. Don't micromanage.</strong> If you have a coordination team, let them manage the major details; after all, that's why you hire them. Any good coordinator won't take over your wedding (it will always be your!) but rather will keep you <span style="color:#33cc00;">informed</span>, keep you on track, recommend high caliber vendors, and help you bring your vision to reality. If you don't have a team, be sure to break up your planning in months, rather than one long <span style="color:#ff0000;">TO DO</span> list. If you have friends or family who would love to help, by all means let them - it can be lots of fun! ---but see our <a href="http://goodlifeevents.blogspot.com/2010/03/for-ladies-aleahs-top-5-tips-for.html">last post </a>about not taking advantage.<br /><br /><strong>3. Trust your vendors.</strong> We've said this in previous<span style="color:#339999;"> Monday Coffee</span> posts and we mean it. If you put off a <span style="color:#ff6600;">calm, cool + collected</span> vibe and hire on great vendors, their talent and creativity will really shine through. Give them some room to whip up some samples and show off their amazing ideas rather than putting them in a box and holding them to just one design. You'll likely say "<span style="color:#3333ff;">wow</span>; why didn't we think of that!"<br /><br /><strong>4. Don't take on too much.</strong> Letting <span style="color:#ffcc00;">DIY projects</span> get out of control can create so much stress. While lots of our clients have fun and take pride in creating invitations or other handmade goodies, trying to do it all could be the end to having a great planning process. Know when to stop and turn your projects over to the pros.<br /><br /><strong>5. Share the fun with your bride or groom to-be.</strong> We're also big proponents in sharing the tasks; let your groom surprise you with a<span style="color:#ff9966;"> funky play list</span> or take on planning cocktail hour or a down-home late night menu.<br /><br />We hope that you take heed to our advice and stay <span style="color:#ff6666;">calm, cool + collected</span>. You'll be sure to enjoy your planning process!<br /><span style="color:#33cc00;">Cheers! Aleah + Nick</span>Aleah + Nick Valleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448008115511942706noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655297088746824861.post-61131005784276035262010-03-04T12:40:00.001-08:002010-03-04T12:40:37.968-08:00For the ladies: Aleah's Top 5 Tips for involving your family and friends in your weddingAs coordinators, we often act as act as a sounding board to our clients, giving advice on how to include loved ones while still keeping the wedding "theirs." Today I wanted to share my <span style="color:#6600cc;">Top 5 Tips</span> for including mothers and friends:<br /><br /><strong>1. Bring your mom along to try on wedding dresses.</strong> Do NOT bring an entourage of moms, bridesmaids, aunts, and cousins. This just complicates the process and you'll have conflicting opinions. Moms usually <em>do</em> know best and I'm sure your mom would be honored to join you.<br /><br /><strong>2. If you have some DIY projects</strong>, like assembling favors or stuffing invitations, make it a fun party with your bridesmaids. Have a caterer drop off some ready-to-serve hors d' oeuvres and have some<span style="color:#ff6600;"> champagne</span> on hand. Make these projects fun and <span style="color:#33cc00;">upbeat</span> and involve your girls at the same time.<br /><br /><strong>3. Don't stick your friends who aren't in the wedding party with odd-ball jobs</strong> at the wedding to "honor" them. We've heard feedback over the years that it's not really an honor to man the guest book table all night or instruct guests on utilizing the wedding shuttle. Instead, ask them to perhaps do a reading at the ceremony - something that truly <span style="color:#3366ff;">means something</span>.<br /><br /><strong>4. If you have a really artistic or talented mother-in-law to-be or friend</strong>, ask them to create something for your big day. Keep in mind the <span style="color:#cc33cc;">fine line</span> between taking advantage and the honor of being asked to create something. Unless it's offered, do not assume someone will create 150 wedding invitation suites or 30 centerpieces for free if that's their specialty. Instead, maybe ask your florist mother-in-law to create your personal <span style="color:#ff6666;">bouquet</span> - tell her you'd be honored to carry something she creates.<br /><br /><strong>5. Be kind</strong>. Have fun with your ladies and make sure they don't regret being involved with your wedding. Surely you've seen the show <strong>Bridezillas - </strong>don't boss around your loved ones. Be the sweet bride you know you are and see <span style="color:#339999;">how much fun</span> the process can be!<br /><br /><span style="color:#339999;">Happy Planning!</span> Aleah<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S4_7kc2lBRI/AAAAAAAACOM/i1uscm-7lT0/s1600-h/FallBridesmaidDress.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444847078153192722" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S4_7kc2lBRI/AAAAAAAACOM/i1uscm-7lT0/s400/FallBridesmaidDress.jpg" /></a><br />*photo from brides.comAleah + Nick Valleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448008115511942706noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655297088746824861.post-59924787215808685842010-03-02T09:28:00.001-08:002010-03-02T09:28:32.914-08:00A Truly Amazing Cause: Wish Upon a Wedding<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S41DIsI8b0I/AAAAAAAACM8/Dq3sZ-Qdpds/s1600-h/wuw_button_logo.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 125px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 125px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444081341127487298" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S41DIsI8b0I/AAAAAAAACM8/Dq3sZ-Qdpds/s400/wuw_button_logo.jpg" /></a>Today we wanted to shed a spotlight on an <span style="color:#ff6666;">amazing</span> new nonprofit - <span style="color:#00cccc;"><a href="http://www.wishuponawedding.org/">Wish Upon a Wedding</a></span>. You've surely heard of the Make a Wish Foundation, well this is similar but grants wedding wishes to those who have a terminal illness. Truly incredible.<br />Here are some important details:<br /><br />WISH UPON A WEDDING:<br />• Was founded in San Francisco, CA, in January of 2010, by a group of wedding and business entrepreneurs.<br />• Is America’s FIRST nonprofit wedding wish granting organization, producing weddings and civil union ceremonies at destinations across the United States for individuals facing terminal illness, regardless of sexual orientation.<br />• Boasts twenty chapters nationwide, headed by some of the industry’s most renowned leaders.<br />• Presidents:<br />• Sasha <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">Souza</span>, National<br />• Kevin Covey, LA/Orange County<br />• Stella <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">Inserra</span>, New York<br />• Ivy Robinson, The <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">Carolinas</span><br />• <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">Eliana</span> <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Baucicault</span>, Atlanta<br />• Mary Alice <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">Sublett</span>, Tennessee<br />• Heather Hamilton Sims, Houston<br />• Shelby Tuck Horton, DC<br />• Elisa <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_6" class="blsp-spelling-error">Delgardio</span>, Orlando<br />• Ali Phillips, Chicago<br />• Daniela <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" class="blsp-spelling-error">Fage</span>ʹ́t, Seattle<br />• Other chapters opening soon: Colorado, Arizona, Portland, Miami, St. Louis, Ohio and Nevada.<br />• To qualify for Wishes, applicants must be unmarried legal citizens of the United States, over the age of 18, who have been diagnosed with less than three years to live.<br />• Simply apply online to request one of three wedding types: URGENT (Up to 10 guests, in hospital or at bedside); BOUTIQUE (up to 25 guests, in home town of applicant); ROMANTIC (Up to 50 guests, at any WUW destination)<br />• Wish Granters needed in all locations. Please<a href="http://www.wishuponawedding.org/"> apply online </a>today to start helping us make Wedding Wishes come true. Photo of the first recipents by <a href="http://www.stellasweet.com/">Stella Sweet<img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 302px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444081344322074386" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S41DI4Cl9xI/AAAAAAAACNE/D57s4IqWr2U/s400/stellasweet-flomike-mont2.jpg" /></a><br /><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 309px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5444082667084786578" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S41EV3tzK5I/AAAAAAAACNM/3JK06FE_LB8/s400/WUW_Blog_picture_format.jpg" />Please pass this message along!Aleah + Nick Valleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448008115511942706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655297088746824861.post-71815518202695554662010-03-01T20:03:00.000-08:002010-03-01T20:04:12.562-08:00Monday Coffee: our top 5 tips for picking a wedding reception venueSo many of our clients don't know where to begin in the<span style="color:#009900;"> wedding reception</span> venue search. On the other hand, some of our clients have pre-picked a venue (their favorite restaurant, the hotel where they were engaged) before hiring us on and we have to go back and fix or clarify contract terms.<br /><br />Here are our <span style="color:#339999;">Top 5 Tips</span> for picking + booking a reception venue:<br /><ul><li>make a list of your favorite places in your wedding town. Have a favorite hotel that has an amazing view of the <span style="color:#3333ff;">ocean</span>? Love a little inn overlooking a romantic lake? Were you engaged at a <span style="color:#999900;">swanky</span> restaurant? Check out these places and see what they can handle in regards to your estimated guest count. Ask them how they can accommodate, say, 100 guests, and how they typically run receptions. Ask them what the<span style="color:#cc6600;"> timing</span> of your wedding will be - some of the best locations might have a 9:30 pm or 10:00 pm cut-off time!</li><li>talk <span style="color:#ff0000;">budget</span>. There's almost always room to negotiate the minimums - ask the catering manager what they can throw in (chivari chairs/waive the cake cutting fee) and if they can knock $1,000 off of the minimum. Some will waive the ceremony fee if your reception is at the same place. You'll be surprised by what<span style="color:#339999;"> just asking</span> gets you.</li><li>talking about minimums - be sure you understand what a <span style="color:#33cc00;">food + beverage minimum</span> is. Several of our clients have assumed their minimum is grand total of what they're bill will be (plus tax + gratuity). <em>It is not.</em> The minimum is simply the <em>minimum</em> price you agree to pay. Say your minimum is $15,000 but your guests/food/drink count only reaches $12,000. You are responsible to pay that $3,000 difference (plus tax/gratuity). You can do so by making your dinner a<span style="color:#cc33cc;"> 5 or 6-course dinner</span>, offering top shelf liquor, or having a late-night menu. Be sure you are <span style="color:#009900;">clear </span>how many guests and what type of menu/beverages you need to account for to reach your minimum. If your budget is tight, be sure you know how many guests will push you <em><span style="color:#ff6666;">over</span></em> your minimum.</li><li><span style="color:#009900;">location, location, location.</span> Be sure your location is close to hotels for our of town guests (or a quick taxi ride away). Are you having a marathon of wedding activities over the weekend? You'll especially want to make sure that either <span style="color:#3333ff;"><strong>A)</strong></span> your venue has restaurants, lodging, and activities or <span style="color:#339999;"><strong>B)</strong></span> restaurants, beaches, parks, and other activities are nearby for your guests - especially if they're coming from afar.</li><li>check with the venue - <span style="color:#cc33cc;">how many weddings</span> do they have going on at one time? You'll likely want to feel like your wedding is special and don't want to run into three other couples on your big day. This really happens - some venues have up to <span style="color:#ff9900;">10 or 12</span> weddings going on at one time. This should be a red flag - remember; it's all about the entire <span style="color:#009900;"><em>experience</em> </span>of your wedding!</li></ul><p>Happy Planning!<span style="color:#339999;"> Aleah + Nick</span></p><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S4wBhViu8HI/AAAAAAAACMs/HAPDdkBoNow/s1600-h/Montestigliano.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 267px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443727721814225010" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S4wBhViu8HI/AAAAAAAACMs/HAPDdkBoNow/s400/Montestigliano.jpg" /></a>Photo by <a href="http://montestigliano.wordpress.com/">Montestigliano</a>, ItalyAleah + Nick Valleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448008115511942706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655297088746824861.post-75352225850423612322010-02-28T18:24:00.001-08:002010-02-28T18:24:26.765-08:00Vibrant Cayman Island nuptialsWe love tropical destination events and couldn't help but share this <span style="color:#00cccc;">vibrant</span>, lovely, and downright fun <span style="color:#ff6666;">Cayman Island</span> wedding. Captured by<a href="http://www.jimgatesphotography.com/"> Jim Gates</a>, the images are just so cheery! <span style="color:#33cc00;">Enjoy!</span> Aleah<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S4nFyr3PNLI/AAAAAAAACMk/DLsOjWr2Dqw/s1600-h/JimGatesfan.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 268px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443099099212494002" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S4nFyr3PNLI/AAAAAAAACMk/DLsOjWr2Dqw/s400/JimGatesfan.jpg" /></a><br /><div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S4nFyM-l2JI/AAAAAAAACMc/Rh4r6DBCLXI/s1600-h/JimGatesCaribbean.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 268px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443099090921838738" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S4nFyM-l2JI/AAAAAAAACMc/Rh4r6DBCLXI/s400/JimGatesCaribbean.jpg" /></a> <div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S4nFx07l0SI/AAAAAAAACMU/T8IMUXraYMc/s1600-h/726FBA2F76FD4676BB23010F071379AE.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 290px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 194px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443099084466802978" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S4nFx07l0SI/AAAAAAAACMU/T8IMUXraYMc/s400/726FBA2F76FD4676BB23010F071379AE.jpg" /></a> <div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S4nFxqFTYiI/AAAAAAAACMM/hEzqrQkg91E/s1600-h/0B6DC68FD56C4F7CB16E319D6C58E8CC.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 290px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 194px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443099081554747938" border="0" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S4nFxqFTYiI/AAAAAAAACMM/hEzqrQkg91E/s400/0B6DC68FD56C4F7CB16E319D6C58E8CC.jpg" /></a></div></div></div>Aleah + Nick Valleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448008115511942706noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655297088746824861.post-85654636999430937022010-02-24T09:38:00.001-08:002010-02-24T09:38:24.949-08:00Nick's Picks: How to get your party started on the right footThe start of the party is what sets the tone for the rest of the event. Here are my top (simple) tips for getting your party started on the <span style="color:#339999;">right foot</span>:<br /><br /><span style="color:#cc0000;"><strong>1.</strong></span> offer a coat check and/or a gift depository- you'd be surprised how many people don't provide this and it leaves your guests carrying bags and coats while trying to eat, drink +<span style="color:#009900;"> visit.</span><br /><br /><span style="color:#009900;"><strong>2.</strong></span> after guests make a deposit at the coat check, have waiters greet them with drinks and <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">hors</span> d' oeuvres. If you're offering up a bar, have waiters at the ready with trays of red wine, white wine, and water. *Don't <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">pre</span>-pour beer - it's best served fresh and cold.<br /><br /><span style="color:#3366ff;"><strong>3.</strong></span> the music you start off with sets the initial tone of the party. In most cases we're fans of starting off slower and working in faster/more <span style="color:#336666;">energetic</span> music as the party progresses.<br /><br /><span style="color:#999900;"><strong>4.</strong></span> greet your guests. make sure, as the host/hostess, you work the room and <span style="color:#3333ff;">thank your guests</span> for attending. This is especially important for a wedding reception.<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#333399;">5.</span></strong> timing is key. If you're hosting an event with significant markers (like toasts, announcements, performances, etc.), make sure that you don't leave your guests waiting...and waiting...Have an emcee make some sort of announcement if there's something to come.<br /><br />Maybe most importantly, <span style="color:#336666;">end on a high note</span>. We spend a lot of time explaining to our clients that there is an expiration time on a party. Leave your guests wanting more - and don't let them stick around to watch the breakdown. Cheers!<br /><span style="color:#009900;"><strong>Nick</strong></span><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S4ViMx1_KbI/AAAAAAAACKM/1WoYM8OFie8/s1600-h/champagne_toast.jpg"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 358px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441863696424839602" border="0" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S4ViMx1_KbI/AAAAAAAACKM/1WoYM8OFie8/s400/champagne_toast.jpg" /></a><br />*Photo from blog.wineenthusiast.comAleah + Nick Valleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448008115511942706noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7655297088746824861.post-66382836158711635552010-02-22T18:29:00.000-08:002010-02-22T18:30:08.890-08:00Check out the Chic Clutch Hunt Giveaway from Merci New York<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S4M8MhowIrI/AAAAAAAACKE/6GZIfw-DTmY/s1600-h/ChicClutchHunt_AmandaPearl.png"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 217px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5441258960679084722" border="0" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcM66ppQiv0/S4M8MhowIrI/AAAAAAAACKE/6GZIfw-DTmY/s400/ChicClutchHunt_AmandaPearl.png" /></a>Our lovely friend Jackie from <span style="color:#00cccc;">Merci New York</span> has whipped up an amazing giveaway on her<a href="http://www.mercinewyork..blogspot.com/"> blog</a>. Here are the details:<br /><br />One lucky reader will have the chance to win a luxurious <span style="color:#33cc00;">Amanda Pearl</span> clutch, valued at $298. We're also featuring an assortment of Amanda's other pieces, which are absolutely stunning. She's truly a rising star in the luxury accessories market and someone brides should have on their fashion radar...<br /><br />Visit the Amanda Pearl website and comment below with your favorite Amanda Pearl piece {it need not be bridal, so have fun perusing her entire line}!<br /><br />To increase your chances of winning the Le Pouf clutch, there are four additional ways to enter this contest:<br /><span style="color:#cc33cc;">1.</span> Tweet this: I just entered to win the @<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_0" class="blsp-spelling-error">AmandaPearly</span> #<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_1" class="blsp-spelling-error">chicclutchhunt</span> giveaway at Merci New York! Check it out here: http://bit.ly/doaqQR{via @<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_2" class="blsp-spelling-error">MerciNYC</span>}. Then leave a second comment once you’<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_3" class="blsp-spelling-error">ve</span> tweeted.<br /><span style="color:#ff6666;">2.</span> Blog about the Chic Clutch Hunt giveaway {feel free to use our oh-so-pretty giveaway graphic!} and comment with your blog link.<br /><span style="color:#ff6666;">3.</span> Post about the giveaway on a message board and comment with your link.<br /><span style="color:#00cccc;">4.</span> Share the Chic Clutch Hunt giveaway on <span id="SPELLING_ERROR_4" class="blsp-spelling-error">Facebook</span> and let us know via a comment.<br /><br />The giveaway winner will be chosen at random and announced via the <span style="color:#00cccc;">Merci New York</span> blog on Monday, March 8<span id="SPELLING_ERROR_5" class="blsp-spelling-error">th</span> at 8:00 PM EST<br /><br /><em>Be sure to enter and add Merci New York to your daily reads; Jackie has an amazing sense of style and posts great finds often!</em>Aleah + Nick Valleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07448008115511942706noreply@blogger.com3