Wednesday, February 1, 2012
When we feature a certain wedding vendor or venue, we base much of our information on our visit to the venue and what we loved at the location. It's one thing to appreciate a venue on a visit or even enjoy the pretty pictures featured on their blog but what do brides like you think about the venue? Why did they select it from all of the other options for their big day? And, what was their opinion after their wedding took place?
Every few weeks, we're going to delve a little deeper and ask brides and wedding venues WHY brides booked their location. There is so much to consider and maybe their decision making process will help you.
Today we ask Kathy Best, owner of Front Porch Farms why, exactly, brides have selected her beautiful farm venue for their wedding day.
Picture by Erin - The Collection
From your experience, why do brides love Front Porch Farms?
It's the perfect “at home” wedding without it being at their home! It’s also a great destination wedding for Tennessee: Southern charm and romance in a beautiful outdoor setting away from the traffic and noise of the city but still close enough to be convenient. Brides know whether their guests are coming from down the road or across the country, when they get here it’s all worth it. We make everyone feel at home because it IS home!
(Picture by The Collection)
Picture by Shots by Cheyenne
ABG Notes: Chill on the porch and take in the gorgeous view (Picture by The Collection)
ABG Notes: Even if it rains, Front Porch Farms has you (literally) covered and it will still look good. (Picture by Red Letter Days)
ABG Notes: It's like a playground for photographers with tons of backdrops and structures to make pictures interesting. (Picture by Phindy Studios)
What would you describe the feel of Front Porch Farms is?
Front Porch Farms is not a venue but an “experience.” A couple who were recently married here told me this and I have to agree! Maybe it’s because we live here or maybe it’s the couples but each wedding day, Brian and I feel as if someone in our family is getting married in our home and everyone is our house guests. Whether a bride and groom’s style is glamorous, simple elegance, vintage, or country chic – one thing is universal, their day is truly romantic and incredibly intimate. Maybe the best word to describe our weddings is “comfortable.” Couples feel at home expressing themselves and their love for each other and their guests enjoy a large dose of Southern Hospitality.
What is something brides have said they just absolutely love about having their wedding at Front Porch Farms?
So many brides have reviewed us on WeddingWire, complimenting us on our "guidance, sensitivity to budget and the bride's vision," "calm and accommodating manner the team brought together last-minute details," "gorgeous venue and great ideas to make things special," "genuine desire to make couples happy and amazing design skills," "warmth and professionalism," and "flawless decor, stellar imagination and creativity." Brides and their families have commented that working with FPF has far surpassed their expectations, that so many guests say that it has been the best wedding they've ever attended, and remarked on the "rental items and inventory that are unbelievable and a great value." They like being "treated like family or an old friend" and love the laid-back atmosphere, beautiful location, and top-tier venue "setting straight out of a storybook!" We love our clients!!
What is it you love that you think brides will/do love as well?
The first thing people say when they get here is “Wow, what a view!” Even photos can’t capture the panoramic beauty. We are only 30 minutes West of Nashville but it’s like you have gone to East Tennessee mountains. We have 32+ acres next to untouched property around us and photographers can take full advantage of it. I love seeing romantic “first looks” and photos shot among the stunning with the trees, pastures, arbors, pond, and barns.
The other thing that couples love is our fun approach to weddings. During the day, groomsmen can fish, swim, play horseshoes and other outdoor games or watch sports in the guesthouse. We offer guests lemonade or tea when they arrive and they also have the opportunity to play outdoor games, relax in the porch swings and rockers or later use our fully-functioning outdoor fireplace to roast marshmallows. It’s all part of the experience.
Picture by The Collection
Picture by The Collection
Picture by Shots by Cheyenne
What made you decide you wanted to host weddings at your home?
When a friend asked me about hosting weddings here, I have to admit it started out as a way of making a little extra money by combining my love of flea market decorating with my experience with events from the music industry. It quickly evolved into an obsession for me and a lifestyle change for both of us. Nothing could happen without Brian (yes I admitted it honey). He builds farm tables, props and custom arbors (not to mention keeps everything running here) and I invite couples into our home every week whether it’s to tour, plan or get married.
People always ask us why and how we do it. My answer is we get to see couples fall in love with our place the way we did when we found it and got married here. It’s a renewed appreciation for what we have built here and for each other. You can’t stay mad at each other long when so much love is around. It’s the best marriage counseling ever!
What is one thing about the farm that you wish more brides took advantage of?
Brian and I love being creative and while we have a ton of props and décor already, we are always wanting to do something unique. We'd love to have more brides work with us to create a truly customized, personal one-of-a-kind event! One item in particular is the small farm tables Brian has made for couples to have their wedding guests sign {a la guest book} and then serve as their sweetheart table for the reception and later a family heirloom. He’s also made arbors, wooden boxes, chalk boards – you have an idea and budget and he can do it. There are unlimited opportunities for special details and customization.
Ashley adds: The ABG team has been to Front Porch Farms and fell in love just like many of the brides that chose to wed at Front Porch. We were a bit apprehensive that it would be worth the drive when we mapped it but we walked away and concluded: 1) The drive is really easy and actually enjoyable and 2) This venue is definitely worth the drive! If they're a great fit for you and your vision, definitely make the drive. It's a must-see venue and isn't as far as you might thing. Give them a call and be sure to let them know you're an ABG reader.
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Posted by Tabitha |
Filed under: Wedding Venues and Locations1 comment »
Thursday, January 26, 2012
If you are a Do-It-Yourself (DIY) bride, you probably come from one of two camps - either you are the next Martha Stewart and craft like no other and want to ensure your wedding has your personal stamp all over it OR you have a limited budget. Either way - you're smart enough to know you will need a wedding planner in some capacity, especially when it comes to insight on your budget and wedding day-of timeline.
The truth is, some wedding planners are wiling to help DIY brides, others aren't. Regalo Design is one of wedding planning company that is wiling to help the DIY bride. They have years of experience with DIY brides and have added an affordable new service just for you...
...Introducing the Regalo DIY bride consultation package!
When Damon and Sarah Goude of Regalo Design got married, Damon told us that Sarah was the one who planned and did everything right down to the last detail - "It can be done but even so there were still things she looked at and said, 'I wish we did this or that differently.'" To avoid that inevitable moment of hindsight, Regalo Design created a $150 consultation package together for you so you don't spend that day worrying and you can execute with ease. What does the package offer the DIY bride?
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Left: the Regalo studio; Right: Damon and Sarah
Vendor Recommendations
Regalo Design will, without bias or commission, recommend vendors for every detail you need and will put together a checklist specifically for your wedding that they then will email to you to keep. Regalo Design is a very do-it-yourself driven company that designs and creates unique decor for their brides so they will know the best places you can go to find the materials you'll need.
A Custom Checklist
When you meet with Damon and Sarah, they will go through your ideas for your wedding day with you and help fill in any blanks where necessary. "Sometimes couples don't realize how much actually goes into a wedding, that there are details that often go overlooked. This makes sure you are covering your bases."
After that personalized checklist is finalized and the notes are taken, Regalo sends it all to you to keep and use. We asked if there was anything to bring to the meeting and Damon said, "bring pictures, flower ideas, decor ideas, a schedule if you have one ready and we can make improvements to it if necessary."
Expert Answers
Maybe you want to create your own centerpieces and have certain looks or flowers in mind but have no idea where to start or what to budget. Or you have some guest list questions or etiquette questions for which you can't find answers. Regalo will answer those questions and honestly advise you so you tackle your DIY wedding with confidence.
Images: Ace Photography
Very rarely will you have access to this information without full-on hiring a planner so definitely take advantage of this wonderful offer from Regalo Design. "We just want to make sure you have it all planned out and you’re taking mental snapshots of the wedding on the day itself and not making a list of what you wish you could have done differently." Book your consultation with them today, whether you're at the start of your planning process or deep in the midst of it already. Click here for the registration form and be sure to let them know that you're an ABG bride!
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Posted by Tabitha |
Filed under: DIY & Budget Wed Finds, Wedding Planners & Coordinators0 comments »
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
"People are starting to want something different," mused Vicki Nelson, owner behind Signature Cakes By Vicki. We were talking about her newest cake styles that take cakes beyond just "beautiful." Signature Cakes' Renaissance Cakes are, for lack of a better word, amazing. They aren't cakes that fall in the "budget" realm because the work that goes into one is worthy of the cost. They're not the most expensive cakes ever imagined, but they are serious cakes for brides whose priority is their cake, the couple that wants seriously mind-blowing, spectacular cakes.
And oh yes, they are still delicious.
About the Renaissance Cake Line:
The cultural movement that was the Renaissance is the inspiration for these cakes. Cities in which the Reneissance movement began and spread through are the same ones that conjure images of rolling countryside in France and Italy and impressive historical buildings like the Basilica di San Lorenzo in Florence, Italy.
Hand shaped sugar flowers that look real shouldn't come as much of a surprise where Signature Cakes is concerned. But the hard work doesn't stop at the teeny stamen or veins in the leaves. Look at each tier of these cakes and you'll see tiny dots, lace details, rosettes - everything was painstakingly made and laid on each layer by hand. Enjoy the Renaissance Line in photos and if enjoy what you see, contact Vicki to schedule your tasting.
Cakes: Under the Tuscan Sun + Provencial Landscape
To the left is Under the Tuscan Sun. Vicki explains "the pink is indicative of the soft rose and mauves of the stucco estates and country homes that dot the countryside. The greens represent the lush fields and rolling hills." The cake on the right is called Provencial Landscape. "The flowers on the cake are reminescient of the warm colors of Provence France. The soft Ivory fondant is like the sky at sunset. The brick work, urns, vines, and columns are representative of the architecture in the villages."
Cake: The Venetian Garden Palace
This all white cake with dahlias is called: Venetian Garden Palace. The white is indicative of the pure white Istrian stone used in the building of many of the palaces, including the Palazzo Ducale (also called the Doge's Palace) which was the seat of power for the Venetian Republic for around 700 years.
Cake: Chelsea Garden Morning
The white cake with the multi colored flowers is called: Chelsea Garden Morning. The Chelsea Flower Show Tour is very famous for their beautiful flowers and gardens.
The Classic Cakes
Who needs Sylvia Weinstock or Ron Ben Israel? We have easy access to gloriously designed cakes right here in Nashville. Bear in mind, we're not saying that Signature Cakes By Vicki is gearing towards only making such high-end cakes, that's far from the truth - Vicki is just adding this regal style of design to her repertoire which already spans simple to modern to classic designs. Take a look at these beautiful designs from two recent real Nashville weddings.
Give Signature Cakes by Vicki a call and definitely let her know you're an ABG Bride to receive 20% off your wedding cake plus free delivery anywhere in the Nashville area. For more beautiful cakes in designs that will blow your mind, visit SignatureCakesByVicki.com.
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Posted by Tabitha |
Filed under: Cakes & Catering, Luxury Nashville Wedding Finds0 comments »
Thursday, January 19, 2012
Mark your calendars and register to attend a stellar (and very tasty) bridal event on Thursday, January 26th. Chef's Market is hosting a bridal tasting for Nashville area brides-to-be and one guest to attend for free with your R.S.V.P. This event is worth attending if you're looking for a wedding caterer that doesn't just provide extraordinary food but also offers incredible food presentation and great service backed by years of wedding experience.
Ashley and I attended last year and it was scrumptious. The food was creative and delicious. To give you a better idea of what to expect at this year's tasting, I asked Genna Dufault of Chef's Market for a little more information.
What can we expect at this bridal tasting and what will the experience be like?
Brides can expect a relaxed and fun night to come out and try an assortment of our most popular foods for weddings and events in a cocktail hour setting. Guests will have the chance to sample everything from hors d'oeuvres and short plates to desserts and beverages. We're putting together a reception style set up so brides can get and idea of what it means for us to create a 'tablescape' and use decor/props for wedding receptions. Additionally, each member of our sales team will be on hand to answer questions and talk weddings. On top of all this, we've invited Nashville wedding planners and venue managers to come out and sample the food as well, so there will be a fun mix of industry professionals and brides!
Each bride will receive a gift bag filled with Chef's Market's favorites and will have the chance to talk with all three members of our sales team and our owner Jim Hagy.
Describe the style of wedding Chef's Market is "right" for:
Chef's Market is perfect for any wedding, in which the reception venue allows for an outside caterer! Seriously though, we're a great fit for brides who want amazing food, incredible presentation and the chance to really create a wedding menu that reflects who they and their fiancé are as a couple.
How will couples benefit from working with you?
After 14 years of catering every kind of Nashville wedding imaginable (indoor, outdoor, rain, shine, intimate and large receptions) our knack for logistics and design means your event will go flawlessly from the first meeting to the last bite at the reception. No matter what kind of wedding a bride is planning it's always our goal to make her wedding feast feel special and unforgettable.
ABG Notes: Not just a caterer - Chef's Market also can create special treats and favors for you. (Pictures: left, Ace Photography. Right, Enchanted Brides Magazine)
ABG notes: They're also phenomenal when it comes to event design and decor. (Picture: Alex Bee Photo)
ABG Notes: From Southern fare to sushi, you will probably get what you crave for your wedding! (Pictures: Chef's Market)
Be sure to RSVP for the Bridal Tasting with Chef's Market by emailing Genna (genna {at} chefsmarket {dot} com). You can bring one guest, and any additional guests pay $35 a person. This is going to be a fun, casual, and interactive event where you'll be able to meet the staff from Chef's Market and see them in action. We'll see you there!
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Posted by Tabitha |
Filed under: Bridal Shows & Events, Cakes & Catering0 comments »
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
You're engaged, you may or may not have found your venue and picked your date, but there's another matter that may be weighing on your mind a little - your gown. What are you going to wear? Where do you start? Where do you go and what do you do when you get there? Today, we ask Melanie, owner of The White Room, some questions to help you keep things in mind when you start on your quest for your dream dress.
Where does the bride start when it comes to wedding gown shopping?
It is important to start your hunt for the perfect gown as soon as you get the ring - and in some cases, even before that (if you anticipate a short engagement and know your date but still waiting on the ring - this is very common - don't stress, we are here to help).
The style of your wedding gown can sometimes set the tone for your entire wedding. Most brides begin by looking at designers' websites and magazines to get an idea of what look they are drawn to. It is ok if the bride would rather start by seeing them in person. (It is our job to help them find the perfect look and they are welcome to come in to either store any time.)
Pictures by Sara Rose Photography and Kreslyn Faye Photography
Would you recommend making an appointment?
Although appointments are not required, we do strongly suggest them. With a small boutique, it is difficult to have enough fitting rooms and staff available at all times to accommodate numerous brides. The White Room offers four bridal fitting rooms in each location and reserves appointments first. We do try to work with every customer that may stop in, but you can be sure to have a fitting room and consultant to work solely with you if you call ahead to schedule something.
ABG Notes: Intricate details from some beautiful gowns at The White Room
ABG Notes: A real Nashville bride wearing a gown by Jasmine, from The White Room. (Picture by Kristyn Hogan)
How much time should a bride devote to dress shopping?
This differs for each bride. Some customers purchase the first gown they try on, while others come back for a second visit to confirm it is "the one." With our trained consultants, an appointment is sure to be relaxed and very productive. In most 2 hour appointments, we not only find the perfect wedding gown, but attempt to nail down a bridesmaid look for your attendants. The most important thing to remember is relax, enjoy your experience, and when you have found the gown for you - say yes and DO NOT continue to confuse and overwhelm yourself by looking at more styles and designers. Be confident in your choice and move on to the next step in planning.
What should she bring/wear to her appointment?
Most importantly we ask our brides to bring an open mind. We are always so excited to start with a new customer and enjoy working with them to find the perfect look!! The White Room offers shoes, slips, and undergarments for our brides to use while trying on sample gowns. We do not require this and of course each customer is welcome to bring anything they feel is necessary in their try-on process.
ABG Notes: Another real Nashville bride wearing a ruched gown from Casablanca. (Picture by Joe Hendricks Photography)
ABG Notes: Lots of styles to look at when you're at The White Room!
Should she bring friends? How many?
We suggest you bring no more than three. Bring the closest friend/family member(s) whose opinion you value and who knows you well and with whom you want to share the experience of buying your gown. Bringing more than three others can take the focus off of you. Again we are a small boutique and with large crowds you may become overwhelmed and frustrated. We want to help you stay calm and enjoy your experience.
How much time should be allowed between ordering the dress, receiving it, and having it altered?
Ordering a wedding gown takes roughly between 4 and 6 months. There are ways to RUSH order a gown if necessary, but this may cause the cost to go up on the gown. The White Room offers preferred seamstresses in both boutiques that will meet with you in the location in which you purchased your gown. The seamstresses prefer to do your alterations appointments 6-8 weeks prior to your wedding/portrait date. Of course we schedule appointments within the 6 week frame if needed due to weight loss, etc.
ABG: Thanks so much Melanie! Ladies we hope this gives you a little bit more encouragement and insight into wedding gown shopping. They've also shared more tips on their blog here. Visit The White Room's website to see the designers they carry at each of their locations and don't hesitate to give them a call and let them know you're an ABG bride who is looking for her dress! Happy shopping!
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Posted by Tabitha |
Filed under: Advice & Planning, Attire - Bridal Gowns, Wedding Dresses & Accessories0 comments »
