Sommer and Kyle's Clearwater Wedding

It's couples like Sommer and Kyle that make me love being a wedding planner. Sommer called me a few months ago in need of day-of-coordinating plus a little assistance on tying up loose ends and figuring out a few more details. By the time their wedding day came around, they made me feel like I was part of the family and were so appreciative and generous towards me.

Not only are they so kind, but they were also very laid back and positive when rain threatened to ruin their outdoor ceremony on the water. As Sommer and her ladies were made up by Darla Stafford and Julie at their hotel, we had to decide whether or not we would have to move their ceremony into the banquet room. Well, mother nature was on our side and the rain cleared just in time for Sommer and Kyle to be married on the deck overlooking beautiful Clearwater beach and the marina, with a touching and fun ceremony performed by Pastor Dean Ryder. It was a little chilly out there, but I think all the love warmed everyone up, as cheesy as that may sound.

This wedding came together with the help of some fabulous vendors. Delectables Catering provided delicious food, sleek linens, an ice sculpture, and a superb banquet staff. The beautiful, contemporary florals were created by Dana Dineen and her team. I enjoyed working with DJ and musician Wayne Delair for the first time, as well as Brad and Jennifer from Events Done Bright who made a clean slate into a pink paradise with lighting, lanterns, and gobos. I got to work with photographer Jason Angelini again, and we always have a great time doing weddings together. Sommer and Kyle booked him without even meeting him in person because they were so impressed with his portfolio. I saw him get tons of great shots and the couple gave him a lot of time, which is important, so I can't wait to post some of his professional photos when his wonderful wife and editor, Lucia, sends them to me.

Sommer and Kyle, you were a joy to work with and I wish you the best in your new life together. Thanks for everything and I hope you are having a fun and relaxing time in Mexico... drink a margarita for me, cheers! ;)

Save the Date - Do or Don't?

What is a save-the-date? A save-the-date is a notification of your wedding date to those you are expecting to invite. They come in all forms -- postcards, magnets, engagement photos, emails, etc.

When should you send out a save-the-date? Typically, couples are sending out save-the-date cards as soon as they decide on a date and place. This can be anywhere from 12 months to 3 months out from your wedding date. If your wedding is more than a year away, it is best to wait until it gets a little closer.

Who should get a save-the-date? You can send this to anyone, as long as you are definitely inviting them! It is extremely rude and tacky to send out a save-the-date and then as your wedding date gets closer, realize that you either don't have the budget to invite certain people or you feel that you are no longer in a close enough relationship to invite them. Unless your guest list is etched in stone, it's best to just send a save-the-date to close family and friends who will no doubt be invited to your big day.


Do I really need to send a save-the-date? Although it's not an absolute necessity, it is mainly for your guests to make arrangements, and this is especially helpful for long distance guests who may need to make flight reservations or secure accommodations. If your wedding is on a holiday weekend, a save-the-date will hopefully cause your guests to avoid making vacation plans for that time as well. Because you only send out your invitations within a couple of months of your wedding, sending a save-the-date in advance will ensure that more of the people you love will be able to attend your wedding.

Where can I get my save-the-date? There are many websites out there where you can create a customized save-the-date card or magnet. VistaPrint and MagnetStreet are two popular websites that many of our clients have used. Some photographers offer this product with your engagement photos, and stationary companies and websites like My Personal Artist and The American Wedding make them as well. There are so many types and styles, from an airline boarding pass postcard to a photo magnet, and most of these sites are very budget friendly as well - have fun and happy shopping!
(photos from mypersonalartist.com and magnetstreet.com)

Sexy Sleepwear

Valentine's Day is just around the corner, and maybe your wedding day is, too. Personalized undergarments are totally hot right now and a nice way to surprise your sweetheart and make them feel extra special! You can wear these custom pieces while you are getting ready, under your wedding dress, or at the end of the night ;) This is also a great gift for an engaged friend! Here are some great websites to find personalized lingerie and sleepwear.



Cami and boyshorts set from Personalizationmall.com








Lacy lingerie set, "Just married" bling, from AdvantageBridal.com










Cutomized boyshorts and panties, CustomGlamGirl.com