You're ENGAGED!!! Now What...?

CONGRATULATIONS!!!

You've been dreaming about your wedding for years, and now it's finally happening!  He asked you to be his wife, and in one moment the dream is becoming a reality!  The harsh reality of dreaming about your wedding, is often you didn't include the planning portion of it!  In our fairy tale we just magically show up to the perfect location, wearing  the most gorgeous gown, full hair and makeup done to perfection, etc!  Here are the FIRST 6 things you should do now that you're engaged before the true planning begins!   

1. Call your people!

Make sure to call all the people that are important in your life BEFORE you post on Facebook, Instagram, twitter, etc. It’s not cool for your old college classmate who you studied with one time to find out before grandma!

2. Get your ring insured!

Yes I know… this is a dull task.  We all know that you’d much rather be showing your new ring off, and flaunting it all around town. But you won’t be feeling that excitement if your ring jumps off your finger and goes down the garbage disposal, or a diamond or two falls off and you don’t have it insured. Trust me this is the one step you don’t want to skip.

3. Get those nails done girl!!

Your left hand is going to be the center of attention for the next however many weeks. So grab your girls and go get a professional manicure, heck treat yourself to a pedicure while you’re at it.

4. Stop – take a breather – and enjoy the scenery!

You’ve most likely been waiting for this day for a very long time; you finally get to plan the wedding you have always dreamed of. But before jumping right into the logistics of it, take a few weeks, and enjoy the excitement and romance of being newly engaged.

5. DREAM!

Grab your man and a bottle of wine and begin to dream. Now is the time to make your secret Pintrest boards public!!! Come up with some ideas together of what you want your wedding to be like. You don’t have to come up with every detail of the big day, just an idea that you both agree on.

6. Come up with a realistic budget!

After you take a few weeks of enjoying being newly engaged, set a realistic budget. If your or his parents are helping with the money aspect, make a delicious dinner, break out a bottle of wine, roll up your sleeves and begin to discuss a realistic budget.

 Written by: Cassidy Will 

Raise A Glass!

Wedding Show Bells are Ringing!

Hi All,

Happy New Year!

I hope all of your holiday dreams came true! If you are one of the lucky ladies who ended up with a romantic holiday proposal, then the Seattle Wedding Show should be your first stop of the new year! If you have been planning your wedding for a little while now, the wedding show is still for you! (I sort of feel like it is a right of passage when planning your wedding!) There are a ton of vendors (some wonderful and others that you should research first) at the show, great cake and goodies, so it can be fun to go to.  I don't suggest that you plan your whole wedding based on the show, but it will expose you to many ideas, professionals, and the wedding experience as a whole!  It can be a really fun day with your Mom, Mom to be, and friends!  If your not a football fan and need something to do during the Seahawks game Saturday afternoon, the wedding show is a perfect escape!  If your the girl (like me) who will be glued to the TV watching the Seahawks march one step closer to the Superbowl, then anytime Sunday is a great time to go!  Go Seahawks!  

Here is the info, and tips I have if you are heading to the show:

Seattle Wedding Show

Location: Washington State Convention & Trade Center

800 Convention Place, 4th Floor

Seattle, WA 98101

When: Saturday January 11th, 201410:00am to 5:30pm (ticket sales open at 9:30am)

Sunday January 12th, 201410:30am to 5:00pm (ticket sales open at 10:00am)

TIPS:

1. The Seattle Wedding Show is the largest of its kind in the Pacific NW. There are hundreds of vendors (some the right fit for your wedding and some not)! Do your research before or after the show. DO NOT sign up with the first vendor offering a Wedding Show Special Deal! You will be sorry! You MUST research the quality of the vendor and their reputation before signing a contract! If you find someone you really like on Saturday, go home, look at their website, call their references, check their yelp reviews, etc.; then go back and book them on Sunday. If you don't want to or can't go both days, many vendors extend their wedding show pricing and deals out past the end of the show (especially if you spoke with them directly)! Make an appointment for a consultation after you've had time to find out more information! Quality vendors will not high pressure sell you!

2. Wear comfortable shoes. It is a huge show! It is possible it could take you 2+ hours to get through it.

3. Layer your clothing. Generally it's cold in the morning at the show and then fills and heats up. Saturday is very busy especially in the morning. If you want to avoid the crowds go later in the afternoon on Saturday or on Sunday. Sunday late afternoon is the least busy, but some of the vendors may have run out of their samples and freebies by then. So, Sunday morning is best!

4. Create a separate wedding email address. (This only applies if you're looking for vendors solo, with out a wedding planner.) You could end up receiving emails from many different vendors, so to keep your real email clean create a wedding only email.Create wedding information labels. This will prevent you from having to write your contact information over and over to enter contests, connect with a vendor, etc.. You will want to include your name, phone number, email, and maybe your mailing address. I have found that large mailing labels work best for this. 1 sheet is probably enough, but is up to you. (Again this only applies if you are looking for vendors with out a wedding planner.)

5. Don't be afraid to go into a booth or speak with a vendor. In my years as a vendor at the show I have seen so many timid brides! The vendors are there to meet you and chat with you about your wedding, and how they may play a role! I know that it can get overwhelming, but know the vendors are there to meet you and answer your questions.

6. Lastly, don't be afraid to say "No". It's okay not to give your information or take a flyer from a vendor that you are not interested in. It's your information, you don't have to give it out.

I hope this helps! If you have any additional questions or concerns please email or call me! wendi@etherealevents.com I'd be happy to assist! Happy Planning & Happy New Year!

When to Marry? Is One Season Better Than The Others?

Recently, I was interviewed by my favorite Journalist Anna Sachse for an article she is writing an article about the pros and cons of each season for getting married. This is a really good question for couples to consider. Every season has a significance to each couple, some maybe more than others. Most people think of summer weddings based on what we all see in movies, magazines, and when we are invited to attend the most, but that does NOT mean it is the right time of the year for you! Here is my full list of the Pros and Cons of each season! I had no idea I had so much to say about this! I hope you find it helpful!

Summer

Pros:

Beautiful weather is most likely

Guests have time off or willingly take vacation time,

Kids are out of school,

3 great 3 day holiday weekends

In 4 season locations, outdoor option generally available

Wonderful selection of seasonal produce

Amazing variety of season flowers in bloom

Bright, Vibrant, and fun color pallets appropriate

Fun refreshing beverages appropriate

Any summertime activity or food is an option, crab bake, lobster cook out, BBQ, etc.

May have a beautiful tan still from summer weather

Longer days full of light

Cons:

Most popular time of year for weddings in 4 season places, which means most expensive time of year, and most competition for locations, vendors, etc.. Can limit your options if you don't pre-plan.

Your may be competing with your guests pre-scheduled vacation plans

3 holiday weekends, people may not appreciate you taking

In warm climates - really hot temperatures - out doors not suggested

Bugs can be a problem in certain areas in the summer months

Competition, You may schedule your wedding on someone else you know's wedding date - 2nd cousin, distant friend, etc. Some of your guests may have another wedding the same day and have to chose

May be leaving your location for honeymoon vacation during your best weather months - might miss the sunshine come winter

Outdoor wedding on hot summer day is really uncomfortable for the Bride in a really formal heaving dress, and for all men in Tuxes or Suits

Sweating profusely on your wedding day is NOT something any bride or groom imagines or thinks about!

Air conditioning at the wedding location really important - can be disastrous with out it!

Candle light is null and void until late into the evening

People can have a hard time dancing until it gets dark - can be late into the evening depending on where you live

Fall

Pros:

Beautiful natural color scheme and use of natural elements for decor

Fall theme is really easy and popular

Beginning to be the less popular time of year, vendor and location rates may be dropping

Nice time to go to on a tropical honeymoon as the weather where you live is getting cold - Make your summer tan last

Less weddings scheduled, so your guest are more likely not going to have another wedding on your date

Travel is less expensive - September is the cheapest and least popular month for travel

Indian summer

Bug problems decrease

Candle light

Sunset Ceremonies - at a reasonable time

Great time for a European or other hot spot honeymoon

Cons:

In warm places, popularity may be increasing due to cooler weather than summer months

School starting

Little to no vacation time left for you or your guests

Risk of cold or wet weather

Sun sets earlier - less day light for photos
Football Season- you may have to negotiate your wedding date around your Honey's team's schedule

Winter

Pros:

Amazing decor options and color schemes to work with

Hotels and venues may decorate for the holidays - supplying you with free decor (that most likely goes with the aesthetic of the location)

Holidays bring family together and are a natural time to celebrate

Prices are discounted except in December at Peak holiday party season

Comfort food

Spiced cider, egg nog, gingerbread, etc.

Candle light/ Fireplaces

Really romantic and magical time of year

Wonderful time for tropical or snowy honeymoon -

Cons:

In cold weather places:

Out door photo or ceremony options limited without proper warm clothing options

Sever weather could delay or cancel your guests travel

Power outages and storms are more likely

Icy roads and bad travel conditions can cause issue for even local guests

Summer color palette, food, and beverages are inappropriate

Flowers are not in season or local

Seasonal Fruits are harder to come by

Travel prices increase

Many holidays to schedule around

Busy and expensive time of year for your guests - may be a hard time for people to travel, buy a wedding present, etc. while juggling holiday expenses

Very little day light for photos

Spring

Pros:

Wonderful flower selection

Bright cheerful colors appropriate

Less expensive then summer months

Less popular time of year creating less competition

Cooler weather than summer months with possibility of sunshine

Great time for honeymoon

Spring Break

Beautiful light for photos

Cons:

Scheduling around Easter

Rain more likely than summer

Kids in school

Dear Wendi Wednesday: Tuxedo Prep

Hi All!

It has been quite a while since I have done a Dear Wendi Wednesday! I guess I'm always looking inspiration and questions to answer! I received this question from one of my clients, and it sparked the perfect topic for this post! I love when my Grooms aren't afraid to ask questions and seek my advice! I think it is really beneficial to all men out there! Thanks E.W. for being my muse!


Hello Wendi,

I have rented a tux but I was wondering if you had any other advice regarding the tux (picking it up, trying it on, etc). I have worn tuxes before but it has been awhile and it wasn't for such an important event.

Thanks,

E.W.


Hi E.W.,

Thanks for the email! Yes, I do have a little advice. I would definitely see if you can pick your tux up a few days before the wedding to try it on and make sure they gave you the right sizes and pieces (2 days before is perfect!). This gives you ample time to make sure it is all there and in pristine condition (clean, pressed, and no loose hems or holes)! I have sadly seen too many grooms and grooms men having to do the tuxedo shuffle (trading parts and pieces with one another) because the tux shop somehow got the wrong sizes for a couple of the men.

Also, if you are wearing cuff-links or tuxedo buttons you want to make sure you have those days before as well. The rental tuxedos don't usually include those items. When you try the tux on, try on the whole ensemble including socks, cuff-links, buttons, handkerchief, etc. to make sure you like they way it all looks together. A walk through is very important to guaranteeing you like the finished product! If there is something missing or off you can correct it before wedding day!

On wedding day, all eyes may be on her, but her eyes will only be on you!

I hope this helps! If you have more specific questions please let me know! I'm happy to help!


All the best,

Wendi

Meaningful Ways To Honor Lost Loved Ones

I was recently interviewed for an article by Anna Sachse on special ways to honor loved ones who are attending your wedding in spirit! Here it is! Enjoy!

9 meaningful ways to honor loved ones

Anna Sachse CTW Features

1. Wendi Hroncich, founder of Seattle-based Ethereal Events, recommends wearing a treasured memento from your loved one, such as your mother’s pearls or your grandmother’s brooch.

2. Consider wrapping your bouquet with lace from your mother’s wedding dress, your grandmother’s rosary or a locket containing your loved one’s photo, suggests Brooke Sheldon, owner of Lilybrooke Events in Kennebunkport, Maine.

3. Because smell is linked with memory, tuck your loved one’s favorite scented bloom into your bouquet, advises Emily Ayer, art director for Southern Weddings Magazine.

4. Remember an important loved one by leaving a single stem of his or her favorite flower on the chair where he or she would have sat during the ceremony, says Ayer.

5. Commemorate all lost loved ones with a special note in the wedding program or a brief announcement by the officiant, says Hroncich.

6. Ayer suggests including your loved one’s favorite hymn or reading in the ceremony.

7. “Ask your caterer to include a special family recipe in the reception dinner,” says Sheldon. Add a brief note to the menu that explains the background For example: “Pumpkin Spice Soup, made from a family recipe, in loving memory of Grandma Gladys.”

8. Honor a loved one with the music, says Hroncich. For example, if your father has passed away, you might play his favorite song during the cake cutting or anniversary dance.

9. Sheldon suggests setting aside a special table with framed photos of all the important couples in your lives. Make it a multi-generational tableau (best friends, siblings, parents, grandparents, etc.) that includes both those who have passed and those who will be present as you celebrate your future.

Do you have a special way you're honoring loved ones at your wedding? I'd love to hear from you!

- Wendi

More places to view article are available here, here, & here!

Photo by Tasha Owen Photography

Couture Dress For Much Less!

Your wedding dress is a HUGE part of your wedding. It is your signature piece! It tells everyone everything about you and your style. With my clients her engagement ring and dress choice(s) are the foundation of my design. They are the 2 pieces that give me the clearest insight into my Bride's style. The ring she will wear forever, and the dress...It is her persona in the fashion form!

Fabulous fashion on wedding day is a MUST! If a designer dress by Vera Wang, Calvin Klein, Badgley Mischka, Amsalae or Kenneth Poole is at the top of your priority list, but may NOT be in the budget, give the following Bridal Boutiques/web boutiques a try! They have the desired designers with out their price tag!

Bride's Against Breast Cancer:

This amazing organization holds designer dress sales all over the country! The dresses come directly from the designers and donations. Their web site states: "Most gown prices range from $99 to $799*, including hundreds of beautiful new name brand and designer gowns valued up to $8,000. *Exclusive designer and couture gowns valued up to $20,000 are also available at an incredible 25% to 75% savings" All the proceeds from the dress sales go to benefit The Making Memories Foundation! They work to grant wishes for stage 4 breast cancer patients and their families! It's a cause I'm personally very passionate about! They are coming to WA very soon! Here's their schedule:

2011
Olympia, WA: January 30 - New!
Tacoma, WA: February 25-27

If traveling to Olympia or Tacoma is not for you! Have no fear! There are 2 Seattle companies to turn to!

Blue Sky Bridal

Blue Sky Bridal's philosophy is "you don't have to sacrifice style, quality, or your budget to have a beautiful wedding that reflects your values. Blue Sky Bridal offers recycled and reconstructed wedding gowns, organic wedding dresses, and green wedding accessories." Being green and sustaining the environment is at the heart of Blue Sky's mission! Located in the Phinney Ridge Neighborhood, they are a Seattle girls go to location for a fabulous green wedding dress! It's a purchase you'll remember forever! Buying at Blue Sky gives you even more to feel good about!

Belltown Bride

Belltown Bride brings you affordable couture! They "cater to the sophisticated woman who has great taste and style, but appreciates good value. Belltown Bride lets you spend the average and get the extraordinary. Most gowns are priced between $1200 and $2500." Their show room is full of designer samples gowns ready to be taken home for your dream day! Belltown Bride is like attending a coveted designer trunk show everyday! It's worth the trip!

Bravo Bride

Bravo Bride is a Seattle based company giving you access to Bride's all over the country! With this user friendly website you have access to resources you never would have dreamed about! Vera Wang for sale in Connecticut, or Jimmy Choos in Florida! "Bravo Bride has thousands of options for you to choose from. Discover amazing bargains on designer wedding items from all over the country." The wedding dresses for sale on their site are of the highest quality, from leading designers. You have to check it out!

Don't worry Bride's maids! Stay tuned for next week's post when I share how you can save some major $$$ on couture bride's maid fashion!

Top Photo: Amsale Collection

Bottom Photo: Kenneth Pool

May You Be Inspired!

Planning a wedding is all about being inspired! Most of my inspiration comes from my couples, and then the hottest trends. I know that my bride's are scouring every wedding blog and magazine seeking images that inspire them and define their wedding. Hot trends and the classic reinvented are definitely what they are finding for us! I try to reach into my clients to find the what about them can I express on their wedding day. How can I create an environment that makes guest walk in and go "This is so them!" Where every little detail is a reflection of my Bride & Groom! It is the perfect partnership!

Today's post is a little eye candy before talking about the wedding dress later in the week! Carolina Herrera is one of my absolute FAVORITE designers! She captures femininity like no one else! This show is a true reflection of how beautiful and special brides are! Enjoy!

Here it is! When is help no help at all article!

Back in November I told you that I was being interviewed for an article about unwanted offerings of help from family and friends. It sparked me to write a whole blog post on the topic, which has hopefully been very beneficial to your planning! The article is finally syndicated and available for your reading pleasure! Feel free to check it out here, here, here, and also here! And, AS ALWAYS, with Ms. Sachse's wonderful articles, there are over 200 more of these, both in print and online, across the U.S. and Canada. Hopefully it will be helpful when planning your wedding and beyond!




Thanks, but No Thanks
5 ways to politely deny “help” from overzealous family and friends

By Anna Sachse
CTW Features

Everyone knows that planning a party for everyone you know is a lot of work, so chances are your loved ones will offer to pitch in. Sometimes you might appreciate their offers – maybe your best friend is a whiz with flowers and offered to create your centerpieces free of charge – but sometimes you may find that their benevolence is more harmful than helpful.

Need some graceful ways to “just say no” to unwanted assistance? Here are five expert tips that should help keep your dream wedding and your loved ones’ feelings intact.

Be Switzerland

The key to politely deflecting unwanted help is to reduce the personal aspect, says Elise Mac Adam, author of “Something New: Wedding Etiquette for Rule Breakers, Traditionalists, and Everyone In Between” (Simon Spotlight Entertainment, 2008). For example, if you are dealing with a pushy relative or future in-law, one way out is to say: “I love you so much, and I love that you have offered to help, but I have to be very careful not to alienate anyone on the other side by leaving people out. For that reason we’ve decided that we won’t involve family in the big jobs.”

This is the “it’s just politics” solution, says Mac Adam. “It also makes you look considerate while allowing you to get what you want or, rather, not get what you don’t want.”

Be Magnanimous

Perhaps your only-cooks-with-a-microwave cousin has offered to bake your cake. The solution? Tell her that you are touched by her generosity, but that you just don’t feel comfortable putting the people who are most important to you to work, says Mac Adam. Instead, you’d prefer that she enjoyed the food, took part in pictures and cut loose on the dance floor.

Play the Blame (it on the pros) Game

“I often tell my clients to blame me!” says Wendi Hroncich, a wedding planner and founder of Seattle-based Ethereal Events. “Most people don’t have a good argument against ‘I really appreciate the offer but my wedding planner thinks it’s best if ...’ And the same goes for any other wedding professionals you work with, including the caterer, DJ, photographer, etc.”

In addition, it’s unlikely that your meddling mother-in-law will maintain a lifelong relationship with any of your vendors, so it’s far better for her to be temporarily upset with them than with you.

Redirect

You may not want your scatterbrained cousin to be in charge of passing out the checks to vendors like she offered, but chances are you can find another role for her. For instance, Mac Adam suggests saying something like: “It’s so nice of you to offer, but it would actually mean a lot to me if, instead, you could check up on Aunt Tessie throughout the night so that she doesn’t get lonely.”

You can also dole out “real” jobs, which, even if done incorrectly, won’t have a major impact on your event or your happiness, says Hroncich. Safer bets include guest-book attendant, gift attendant, usher and candle lighter.

Minimize Damages

If you want a loved one to feel included but you simply can’t stomach the idea of having him or her take part in the logistics of your actual big day, Hroncich suggests assigning a task that you need taken care of in the days or weeks prior, such as picking up a friend from the airport, dropping off hotel gift bags or collecting the programs from the printer. Just be sure that you have a back-up plan in case the person flakes.

When is help no longer helpful?

I was recently interviewed for an article coming out soon about How to Say No to Help. The idea is to help couples find easy and polite ways to say "No Thanks!" to unwanted help from friends and family, while minimizing hurt feelings and still getting what they want. Here is a sneak peek before anyone else of what I had to say!



So, the thing with saying no to input and help from friends and family on your wedding is the same as saying no in all other aspects of your life! Being kind, appreciative and blaming it on someone else all work well, and when the 3 combine: an instant resolution! As you may be beginning to find out, everyone wants to help and knows best when it comes to your wedding! It can get annoying, I know, but listening and appreciating their offer is one of the most important parts to not hurting feelings and getting what you want! But the key to letting them down easy is, blaming it on some else. It always gets you off the hook! I'm NOT saying blame your Mom, Hubby to be, Maid of Honor anyone like that! With an event as big as your wedding there are plenty of other people to have as a scapegoat! The wedding planner (yours truly), Professional DJ or Band, Professional Photographer, Professional Caterer, Venue, etc!

I almost always tell my clients blame me! I'm completely okay being the target of someone’s frustration when it protects my Brides and Grooms. I will not have a relationship with this family member for the rest of my life, my birde or groom will! So if the person(s) are upset with me for a little while rather than my client it's a far better thing! Most family and friends don't have a good argument against "I really appreciate the offer, but my wedding planner thinks it's best if ...." fill in the blank.

The same goes for all your vendors! I must stress the importance of professional vendors! They have the years of experience and credibility needed to put the wanting party at rest. You have hired them to have your wants and best interest above all else! They are also prepared to handle potentially wild family/friend request on wedding day with class and professionalism! Just because the Bride or Groom said no to the helpful party, doesn't mean they won't ask the vendor to do so on wedding day!


Here are a few tips to make sure your wedding goes exactly as you want with or without the help of your family and friends!

1) Be thoughtful and appreciative of the request/offers you receive. Don't think that if you accept help with from one you need to accept it from all. Just let the person whose help you don't need know you have it handled but you really appreciate the offer!

2) If you aren't able to say no thanks, then give people who want to help small jobs that if not done correctly don't really impact the day! Have someone be: the guest book attendant, gift attendant, usher for the ceremony, responsible for getting all the family their personal flowers (corsages/boutonnieres), candle lighter at ceremony or reception, etc. Then allow the major parts of the day be handled by your hired professional vendors!

3) There are also plenty of jobs leading up to wedding day! Someone needs to drive Grandma and Grandpa to the rehearsal dinner, pick up so and so from the airport, print directions to the ceremony, etc. Delegation and follow up are key to the success of this one!

4) Make sure your vendors know exactly how you want things. If there are worries or concerns minor or major tell your vendor! It is better to prepare them for everything that you think might be asked of them.

5) Make sure you know how your vendor handles request! Whether it be a song request from your Do Not play list or guest switching tables. It is soooo important that the vendor doesn't put it back on you! The words "Go ask the Bride and Groom!" are a nightmare on wedding day! Talk to the vendors ahead of time to avoid this!

Bottom line, you are very lucky to have so many people wanting and willing to help you! I hope this is beneficial in making the best use of it! I’d love to hear how you handled all the help on and surrounding your wedding day!

Mishap Monday! Tent pole placement...

I just recently saw this You tube video and it brought up a really important point! Make sure that you hire a professional rental company (who specializes in tents) if you are having a tent at your wedding! And do not put a pole near the dance floor!!! You want to avoid a mishap like this one!

Hire a Wedding Coordinator if...

My sister who is getting married this October emailed this to me. I thought I would share it with all of you! I think it is fun and cute! If any of them apply to you: HIRE A COORDINATOR!
We will save you all the stress, time and money!! We are there to be on your side no matter what!

FROM: the knot and MSN

What Kind of Bride Are You?
Even the calmest woman can suffer a meltdown (or six) in the course of planning a wedding. Do you still recognize yourself, or have you turned into one of these bridal caricatures?

By Hallie Goodman

Every bride has her own, well, let's just say quirks. Read on and see if you recognize anyone you know.

The Non-Decider
Shoe fit? The deadline for mailing invites is looming. Too bad you've yet to choose a location. The dress? You've narrowed it down to white. Or, wait, ivory. Ivory or white it is.

Break through it: Not a case of cold feet? Phew, okay, then the culprit could be perfectionism. It's a simple equation: perfectionism = procrastination = paralysis. Afraid to make the wrong decision, you've opted not to make any at all. If your budget can bear it, call a wedding planner ASAP. Not possible? Call a summit of your closest friends and ask for help. Divide and conquer the scary to-do list together. Relax, it'll be fun. And a fun wedding is a perfect wedding!

The Alpha
Shoe fit? Bridal binder? Check. Countdown calendar? Check. Hostages? Check (though you prefer to call them the wedding party). The upside to you bordering on bridezilla is that you know what you want. The downside — you knew there would be one, right? — you've been voted most likely to go 'zilla at the first fumble. And while bossy might get you results at the office, with friends and family it's not cute.

Break through it: If you're a proper type A, you've hired the best people, so have a little faith! Give vendors a list of instructions, in writing, and then lay off. When it comes to friends and family, any help they offer is a labor of love, so help them love it by dropping the drill sergeant act.

The Fairy Princess
Shoe fit? You went shopping for a sheath, but bought a dress so poufy it'll dust both sides of the aisle. Instead of reserving a limo, you put a Cinderella coach — complete with six white horses — on hold. You've always been a minimalist, so what's up with Barbie's dream wedding?

Break through it: Sounds like your inner 8-year-old has taken over the planning process. Hey, it happens! But your wedding should reflect who you (and your man) are now. Not something you once scribbled in a diary. Run everything by your BFF, the one who always tells you when you've lost your mind. If it's all wrong, she'll see it. And if it turns out that a castle-shaped champagne fountain is you, she'll help you get it.

Miss Baby
Shoe fit? When you hear that the flowers you wanted are out of season, you cry, stomp, and say (unfortunately out loud), "Why me?" When your honey says the groomsmen vetoed the color coral, you can barely get out of your pajamas for three days because, really, what's the point if there will be no coral on your wedding day? In short, stress has gotten the best of you. But rather than raging when you don't get your way, you throw lavish pity parties left and right.

Break through it: You're obviously overwhelmed and/or exhausted. Time to declare a serious WTO (wedding time-out). Turn off the laptop, hide the BlackBerry, and spend the evening paying attention

The Balanced Bride
Shoe fit? Not a single family member is avoiding your calls. Your bridesmaids don't roll their eyes every time you talk. Even your fiance appears to be having a relatively good time. Congrats on not driving everyone around you crazy!

Break through it: What's to fix? Sounds like you're sitting pretty. But don't be shocked if you have a few mini meltdowns. No one expects you to be perfect.

(This Girl definitely has a coordinator!!!)

For more on this from MSN click here!

Ready to figure out your intended? Read "What Kind of a Groom Is He?"

Dear Wendi Wednesday...Tips & Tricks for Seattle Wedding Show

Dear Wendi Wednesday a little differently! It is my first Vlog ever so please take it with a grain of salt. I am by no means a videographer, nor am I trying to be. I'm just trying to keep the blog interesting! (And I got a flip camera for Christmas that I have been dying to use! I hope you like it!

Dear Wendi Wednesday...Tips from Mindy Weiss

I'm doing Dear Wendi Wednesday a little differently today. I found a video on You Tube from Good Morning America featuring Melissa Rycroft and fiance Ty Strickland. They and home viewers are getting their wedding etiquette questions answered by the infamous wedding planner to the stars Mindy Weiss. Check it out!


If you have a wedding questions you would like answered please leave me a comment and I will make it next weeks post! Thanks!

- Wendi

Holiday Wedding Giveaways!!

Junebug Weddings, the fabulous wedding fashion blog is giving away amazing prizes this week! Each day December 14th to 19th they will unveil a new prize for one or two lucky winners to take home! These aren't cheesy prizes either, they are jammed packed with goodies to make your wedding day that much better!! Today they are giving away

"- A Tying The Knot gift set from Philosophy and TheKnot.com

- A $100 gift certificate toward Bella Umbrella's vintage parasol rental for your wedding day

- And an adorable garter from the "Something Blue" collection of Julianne Smith Wedding Garters! " -Junebug weddings

If you haven't already you must check it out, and FAST!! You don't want to miss out on all they have to offer. Click here to go directly to the giveaway!

Dear Wendi Wednesday...That takes the cake!

Dear Wendi,

What is the deal with the Groom's cake? Should I incorporate this into my wedding?

Thanks,

J.F. Seattle

Hi J.F.

Thank you so much for your question! I love Groom's cakes! They have been thought of in the past as an unnecessary additional cost, but currently they are becoming incredibly popular. They are a wonderful addition of the Groom's personality into the wedding reception. According to Wikipedia:

"A groom's cake is a wedding tradition typically associated with the American
South... The decoration of the cake may reflect the favorite hobby or
interest of a groom, or be used for humorous effect... The groom's cake
is often served at a separate table from the wedding cake at a wedding
reception, though it may be served as a dessert for a rehearsal dinner."

The important part of a Groom's cake is that you have fun with it and make it about him. Have it made of his favorite flavors, and shaped to represent something he loves. Below are some great examples of my past clients' wedding cakes and groom's cakes!

Jenny & Amit's Indian inspired wedding cake

Jenny & Amit's University of Washington Husky Groom's cake
Hannah & Ryan's Naranja inspired wedding cake

Hannah & Ryan's Nike shoe inspired Groom's cake

Each Groom's cake was a surprise to the Groom, as a gift from the Bride! They were thrilled and touched! The cake really showed that the bride has thought about them, and what they would have picked if given the opportunity to pick the wedding cake! It was so wonderful to witness! I highly recommend a groom's cake.

Are you having a Groom's cake? Tell me about it!

Red Wine Be GONE!

Dear Wendi,

My wedding is coming up in a few weeks! I can hardly wait! I do have a concern as the day draws closer. My fiance and I are red wine and scotch drinkers. We are serving a variety of both at the bar. I am starting to worry someone will spill red wine on my dress. Is there something you can recommend if this does happen?

Thank you,

E.R. Woodinville, WA


Hi E.R.,

I'm so glad you asked this question! Spills and stains are a huge concern with most brides. But I promise, you have little to worry about! I have a couple of secret weapons to combat a red wine stain.

1. Avoid serving or drinking red wine prior to the reception. The less possible contact the less likely you'll be spilled on.


2. If you are spilled on, immediately poor white wine on the spot. It will neutralize the acid of the red and pull the red color out. You will still be wet in that spot, but the red will vanish.


3. Lastly, I am a huge fan of a product called Wine Away. (You can find it in most grocery stores. I've had luck finding it at Albertson's and QFC. ) It works in a heart beat on all fabrics and leaves no trace behind. I have used it on silk, satin, french lace, duchess satin, you name it. I use it at weddings and at home. I absolutely love it. They don't pay me to say this. I just love how well it works! (Though, they should!)

*Every dress (wedding or not) is different, and will be effected by these products differently. To be safe, I would first try any of my suggestions on a small area (maybe near the bottom or underside) before using all over your wedding dress. I have had extremely positive results, but can't guarantee them for all.

Do you have a suggestion for getting stains out of a wedding dress? I'd love to hear them!

Happy Planning!

Oh NO! Dear Wendi Wednesday

Dear Wendi,

I've heard from my friends and brides maids that I should have an emergency kit on wedding day. What should I include in it?

- L.S. Portland, OR

Hi L.S.,

Thank you so much for your question! Your friends are right. Having an emergency kit on wedding day can be a real life saver. My kit is FULL of different goodies to get through any situation. However a bride's emergency kit can have far less. Here are some basics that I find my clients using the most:

• Stain stick - Shout wipes. Wine away. Bleach pen. Any one of them will do the trick
• Sewing kit - make sure it includes thread the color of your and your brides maid's dresses
• Tissues - small hand held packs are the best
• Hair spray - a small travel bottle will do the trick
• Comb or Brush - or both
• Scissors - even a small pair. Check and see if there is a pair in the sewing kit
• Ribbon in your wedding colors - can use it anywhere
• Fashion tape - Can help secure a dress or ribbon to flower girls dress
• Band aids - someone always needs one
• Straws - you don't want to ruin your lipstick
• Breathe Mints - insurance for an amazing first kiss!
• Blotting papers - (if you don't have these - toilet seat cover will work the same)
• Plastic cups - just in case the hotel doesn't have enough for everyone to toast
• Wine opener- a cheap one will do
• Granola Bars - hunger can strike at any moment!

There are a million other things in my kit, but this should prepare you for almost anything on your wedding day!

Have any suggestions for what should be in an emergency kit? I'd love to hear your suggestions!

Happy Planning!

I'm Hungry!

You wedding day has finally arrived! The months if not a year spent researching and hiring the right vendors, weeks of perfecting the details, days of running errands, and hour agonizing over your seating chart are behind you. It is now time to sit back, relax, and enjoy the fruits of your labor!

The people you love are all around snapping photos, pouring champagne, steaming dresses, listening to music, and celebrating what lies ahead in just a few hours! With all of the things going on and excitement in the air it is all to common for this mishap to take place.

Monday Mishap: No one planned anything to eat outside of the wedding meal

The wedding day is a long day especially for the bride, groom, and their bridal party. With hair and makeup starting 5 to 6 hours prior to the ceremony. It is common that a wedding day last 10 to 12 hours if not more. So count back, if your ceremony starts at 5:00pm then that means 11:00 am or so you start hair. Then getting dressed, photos, ceremony, etc. And what time is dinner scheduled? 7:00 or 8:00 pm? That is a really long time to go without food. You are packed full of emotions and adrenaline, but that will only last so long. Eating during that time is a very important part of a successful and fun day.

If you have overlooked this ever so important detail, don't stress you are not alone. It is often overlooked by almost everyone. My advice is to sit down with your groom and talk about what each of you is going to do for breakfast and lunch on wedding day. You are obviously going to do different things, but having a plan for each of you is very important.

Since I don't know what you getting ready plans are, and won't be there to bring lunch, here is a wide variety of simple suggestions:

For the Groom:

• Meet up with grooms men for breakfast/lunch - (*make reservations if you have a large party)
• Eat at the golf course after your 9 holes (*You don't have time for 18! You just don't!)
• Arrive to the hotel early and eat in the lounge prior to getting dressed
• Order room service
• Eat breakfast and lunch at home prior to arriving at picture location (*this does mean you need to have food for both meals in your home ahead of time. Yes, a trip to the grocery store!)

For the bride:

• Order room service in your bridal suite
• Have your family or brides maids bring in muffins, fruit, yogurt, lunch meat,crackers, etc. for you all to snack on.
• Have your bridal brunch/luncheon in the morning before hair and make up
• Stock up your house with your favorite foods (nothing that can not be prepared before wedding day. No cooking or hassle on wedding day!)
• Pack a snack bag ahead of time and bring it with you to the ceremony location
• Pre-order appetizers from reception location to have ready for you as soon as you arrive
• If ceremony and reception at same location - have the appetizer prepared for all bridal party to enjoy in down time prior to ceremony

*Special Note* Once your dress is on it is important to have stain free snacks to munch on. OUT:: chocolate, mustard, red wine, cranberry sauce, anything with a colored sauce IN: pretzels, fruit, veggies (watch dips), cheese platters, nuts, etc.

If you have a suggestion for Brides I'd love to hear it! Leave me a comment. Happy planning!

Photographs: Clare Marie Photography