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 & Coordinators
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Friday, December 30, 2011
We'll continue our advice for newly engaged Nashville couples next week. For the weekend, we'd like to share a Nashville-area wedding, our last for 2011! This year, we've featured some incredible local weddings - Erin and Ron's Front Porch Farms wedding is in great company.
Today's wedding features many details of which we are huge fans. From do-it-yourself elements to birds, beautiful floral arrangements, and bright colors, Erin and Ron's wedding at Front Porch Farms is just too pretty not to share. Erin is a writer for HerNashville's "Her Night Out" column and as a fan of her writing, it was really cool to see her wedding vision come to life and confirmed what I thought - she has great taste! Combined with the planning expertise of Kathy Best and Front Porch Farms and the talents of the wedding vendors Erin and Ron worked with, this was a beautiful wedding. Enjoy!
Erin + Ron
Wedding Date ~ May 21, 2011
Ceremony & Reception ~ Front Porch Farms
Guests ~ 120
Wedding Team
Planner | Kathy Best of Front Porch Farms (I also couldn’t have done it without my mom)
Photographer | Erin Lee of The Collection
Gown & Accessories | Ellyne Bridal in Lincoln, Nebraska
Groom’s Attire / Groomsmen Attire | JoS. A. Bank
Bridesmaids Attire | J. Crew
Makeup | Jennie Cunningham (of Clinique, Cool Springs Galleria)
Stationery | I made the invites and programs myself
Ceremony Musicians | Chris Going, guitarist
Reception Musicians | The Remedies (band)
Transportation | Anchor Trailways (for guest transportation)
Caterer | Down South Delights
Cake Artist | Sweet and Sassy
Floral Designer | Enchanted Florist
Guest Accommodations | Holiday Inn Express on Broadway
All images courtesy of The Collection
Wedding Details
How would you describe your style as a couple?
We wanted a wedding that was not only meaningful to us, but was fun for our guests. A lot of our favorite times together have been spent outdoors, so we searched for an outdoor venue that incorporated the beauty of nature. We wanted a shabby chic meets vintage meets DIY kind of wedding that played tribute to each of our families and hometowns. I grew up in Nebraska and Ron is from Kentucky, but we met in Nashville and we wanted to incorporate all three places.
How did you incorporate that style into your wedding?
Front Porch Farms fit our style perfectly. The natural setting was gorgeous, and one that would have been impossible to recreate in an indoor venue. We added many details to make it personal including a signature drink recipe from a bar in Nebraska, toasting with mint julep glasses and by giving guests popcorn from a shop from my hometown. We added a southern touch with blue mason jars, mix and match china, shrimp and grits, and Yazoo beer. We also used flowers from Ron’s late mother’s garden to hang from the property’s oak tree that we used our altar. It served as a memorial to her, along with the various birds we had in our decor (she and I both loved decorating with birds).
What was the favorite aspect of your wedding?
Our wedding was everything we imagined it to be. It’s very rare that a scene plays out exactly as you picture it, but from the way I looked to the colors and the placement of the details, the entire day was identical to what I envisioned, and that completely amazed me.
Where did you splurge? Where did you save/DIY?
Our biggest splurge was photography. We ended up spending more than we had anticipated, but after doing research, I learned it just wasn’t worth the risk to skimp on the one thing we would have to remember our wedding forever. Before we met Erin Lee, my biggest fear was that I wouldn’t like my wedding pictures, but I couldn’t be happier with the photos. It was an investment I will never regret.
We had a lot of DIY projects that not only helped us save, but incorporated our personality in the wedding. I designed our invitations and had them printed at Kinkos. We then had the wedding invite made into a poster for guests to sign for a guest book (it cost us less than $10). My mom made the table runners and place cards and my dad made yard games, which my sister and I decorated, to play at our cocktail hour.
Now that the wedding day is over, is there anything about your planning process you feel you could have done differently?
I started a lot of DIY projects that I didn’t end up finishing or incorporating in the wedding. I went through an indecisive phase when I didn’t know exactly what I wanted. Looking back, I should have waited until all of our vendors were in place before I started on projects. Once we had everyone booked, the details and vision all fell into place.
In one sentence, what words of advice do you have for couples in the midst of their planning?
Don’t let the inevitable stress get in the way of enjoying the excitement of this very special time in your lives.
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Posted by Tabitha |
Filed under: DIY & Budget Wed Finds, Real Nashville Weddings
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Thursday, December 1, 2011
If you have attended a Nashville bridal show (as an engaged couple or wedding pro) you have probably enjoyed a cake sample (or five, in my case) from Signature Cakes by Vicki. They're the mini cupcake samples with just the right amount of topping for a one-bite treat that gives you a great idea of just how good their cakes are. Well, they've scaled things down a little (not mini cupcakes though) for the holiday season and they're offering holiday dessert cakes that will feed up to 50 people, in their delicious flavors we already know and love.
This really is the most wonderful time of the year and to me, Thanksgiving is but a warm up for the feast of sweets and treats that the holidays tend to bring. You can keep your pumpkin spice lattes and pies, there is nothing that says holiday cheer like good old fashioned cake. And, who better to spread such cheer than Signature Cakes by Vicki? Here's how you can order yours!
Starting right now, Vicki and her team are taking orders via email or, if you have any questions, call them and let them know we sent you. If you're not picky when it comes to flavors, you can get one pretty quickly (one week) but for special flavors and orders please allow more time.
Why order a cake? Easy - it's stress free and taste fantastic. These dessert cakes are great to bring to a party, to have if you're hosting one or if you'd just like to give someone a tasty gift for the season. Flavors include strawberry, caramel with butterscotch (perfect for this time of year), white chocolate, chocolate and spice which is a buttermilk spice with cinnamon and allspice and the great flavors that conjur up the holidays.
Each 12-inch cake is $99 and a little extra if you want more personalized flavors. Again, allow no less than one week for your order for basic flavors (pictured, chocolate not shown) and more time for specialty flavors which include Signature Cake's margarita or key lime or banana cream. But trust me when I say the strawberry is amazing (real, pureed strawberries!) and you can't go wrong with the caramel. All the cakes come with the buttercream frosting and filling, with extra costs for ganache and any decorations. For more of their flavors click here.
Signature Cakes By Vicki's dessert and holiday cakes are a great way for you to sample her work in case you're still looking for a baker for your wedding. Her cakes are fluffy and have a great texture and taste. The same level of work is put into these cakes as is expended on the wedding cakes they make so you can expect the same great quality, just in a smaller size, just in time for the holidays.
Order your cakes soon, and be sure to mention that you heard about them from ABG! Visit their website at SignatureCakesByVicki.com.
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Posted by Tabitha |
Filed under: Cakes & Catering, Contests, Giveaways, Specials, DIY & Budget Wed Finds
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Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Before we head off to celebrate Thanksgiving with our loved ones, we want to wish you a Happy Thanksgiving and a super saving Black Friday.
Black Friday is now more than a day to get great electronic deals for others, you can save for the most expensive day of your life. Forget the TVs, gadgets, sweaters, and save on your dream dress or your wedding venue! Black Friday doesn't discriminate - even the bridal industry is gearing up for a great day of shopping and sales!
Here is our list of exclusive ABG offers with a couple of highlights on ones that are happening right after Thanksgiving.
The White Room's most recent super sample sale
1) The White Room White Friday Sale
Website: TheWhiteRoom.us
Sample Sale: Friday, November 25, 2011
8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Locations: Murfreesboro and Lebanon, TN
Maggie Sottero “Tiffany” (in both stores) Originally $1469, Sale price $498 (left); and Maggie Sottero "Pamela" Originally $799, Sale $198 (right)
Starting at 8 am Friday morning, the White Room will hold a one day only, huge sample sale at both their locations (Lebanon and Murfreesboro) that includes bridal and prom gowns - great for your bridesmaids! Bridal gown prices start at $99 and prom at $50. No appointment is needed, they will accept cash or credit/debit card for payment. Gowns are to be paid for in full that day.
Expect great prices on beautiful samples from their designers Maggie Sottero, Pronovias, and more. See some of the dresses for sale via our link here. Then, contact them for more details.
2) Street Tuxedo Free Groom's Tux Promotion
Contact: Rachael Street or Megan Ledbetter
Website: StreetTuxedo.com
Picture by Alex Bee Photography
Brides aren't the only ones who benefit from our vendors great offers! If you're getting married before the end of February 2012 and your groom still doesn't have anything to wear, we can't encourage you enough to head to Street Tuxedo. Book your December - February 2012 wedding by the end of this month and receive a free groom's tuxedo and one father-of-the-bride tuxedo plus shoes for the entire wedding party, when you rent six or more tuxedos.
3) Houston Station Winter Wedding Special
Contact: Elizabeth
Email: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Telephone: 615-289-7225
One of our favorite venues in Nashville is offering an incredible deal for 2012 brides: Houston Station invites ABG Brides who are getting married in January, February or March 2012 the chance to book their venue at 2010 rates. If you are a last minute bride or just got engaged and don't want to waste any time, check out this Houston Station promo. It is a fantastic place that can be decorated exactly to your heart's desire, with lots of room for you and your guests; complete with a coffee blending room that's a great area in which guests can relax and chat. Contact them for more information on the rates. Learn more about the bridal promo via this link then contact Elizabeth for details.
We always have great offers from our vendors for ABG Brides - check out our savings page for more deals on photography, wedding planning and even cakes!
4) Arzelle's Bridal - Buy your wedding dress this weekend and get half off your veil!
Have a great Thanksgiving!
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Posted by Ashley of Ashley's Bride Guide |
Filed under: Contests, Giveaways, Specials, DIY & Budget Wed Finds
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Tuesday, October 11, 2011
We love sharing real weddings with our readers, and this one is a treat! Not only is the bride a wedding planner, but the affair had an Old Hollywood theme! Who doesn't love Hollywood?! And since Debbie is from New York, she wasn't looking for your typical Southern wedding. Taking their love for the theater, Debbie and Carlos chose to create a theme that every guest would love. This included guests finding their seats at the reception with movie tickets and enjoying a popcorn bar.
We also love things that aren't always tradtional. In this case, it's the wedding party - it was all male. Debbie had her two brothers as "Men of Honor" and her one-year-old nephew as the "Ring Dude." Carlos chose his brother as his best man and two best friends for groomsmen to complete the party.
The classy black and white evening was shot by Karen Alisa Photography. Karen also took the bridal party to Events on 3rd (the old Nashville Dinner Theater). The space made for grand, Hollywood-esque photos with its red staircase, exposed brick, and overall charm. We hope you enjoy the photos and theme!
Debbie + Carlos
Date ~ August 27, 2011
Ceremony ~ Holy Name Catholic Church
Reception ~ Hilton Garden Inn- Vanderbilt
Guests ~ 90
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Budget
$10,000 - $20,000
Wedding Team
Planner | Me! I have my own business, Wedding Designs by Debbie
Day of Coordinator | Beautiful Weddings by Beth Anne - my teacher in wedding planning! (bethannesbeautifulweddings.com)
Photographer | Karen Alisa Photography
Gown | David’s Bridal
Bride Accessories | I made both headpieces myself and my veil was created from my mom’s veil.
Groom’s attire / groomsmen attire | Men’s Warehouse
Hair | Alicia at Altra Salon
Makeup | Susannah Smith White
Stationery | My own! - Wedding Designs by Debbie
Ceremony musicians | Singers - Tyson and Cori Laemmel and Josh Waldrep; Lee Druce on piano and organ
Reception Musicians | JD Music
Transportation | Nashville Luxury Limos
Caterer | Hilton Garden Inn
Cake Artist | Dulce Desserts - we had a two-tier cake and a side cake
Dessert Table | We had many different desserts (aside from our cake) including tartlets, red velvet cupcakes, lime meltaways, and cannoli's from Savarino's.
Floral Designer | Green Finch Floral Design - my bouquet had black magic roses and red feathers! (greenfinchfloraldesign.com)
Guest Accommodations | Hilton Garden Inn Vanderbilt
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Wedding Details
We had an afternoon ceremony at Holy Name Catholic Church in East Nashville. This was followed by a cocktail hour at the Hilton Garden Inn-Vandy, then a sit down dinner reception with dancing and karaoke. The ballroom at the HGI is located on the 9th floor penthouse with views overlooking Downtown Nashville.
How would you describe your style as a couple?
We are very dramatic. We met doing theatre and wanted our wedding to show our love of artistic design.
How did you incorporate that style into your wedding?
We chose an overall style of Old Hollywood and our colors were black and white, with red as the accent color only in flowers. We started with the save the dates and had a friend, who is a videographer, take photos of us like we were in film noir movies. Those pictures were also incorporated in the table numbers.
At our ceremony, the programs were rack cards with a red curtain opening on the front (like an old movie theater).
For our reception, we had a movie poster of Carlos and I at the entrance of HGI that directed people where to go. Once at the ballroom we had a red carpet step and repeat banner with a photographer taking pictures of the guests as they arrived. He printed them out for them to take home and to be slipped in the clap board place cards at the tables. I created escort cards that were movie tickets corresponding to the table numbers, which were movie titles and pictures that Carlos and I took (all in black and white). I came up with movie titles that were based on Film Noir and 1930-1950's movies. Example: Citizen Garcia, Beauty and the Beard, The Lady From New York, etc. We also had a popcorn bar!
What was the favorite aspect of your wedding?
Our first dance. Two of our friends Zack Gresham and Jillian LaFave from Umbrella Tree, arranged, played and sang Ben Fold’s “Luckiest”.
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Where did you splurge? Where did you save/DIY?
We did not splurge at all. As a wedding planner, I knew shortcuts. Even though a lot of the wedding details seemed high end, I was able to bring costs down considerably by doing it myself. I think the invitations were the most extravagant, but since I sell them, they were at cost, plus I added my own touches to make them special.
Now that the wedding day is over, is there anything about your planning process you feel you could have done differently?
I would have had some sort of greeter at the cocktail hour. We wanted the movie/old Hollywood theme to expand by having a step and repeat banner that guests took photos in front of. They were then printed out and guests took the photos and put them in the place card clapboard frames at the tables. I think there was too much going on and many people missed out on that aspect.
In one sentence, what words of advice do you have for couples in the midst of their planning?
Do not worry about all the details, make it your own and be sure to not over spend.
Thanks for sharing your wedding with us Debbie and Carlos!
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Posted by Megan |
Filed under: DIY & Budget Wed Finds, Real Nashville Weddings
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