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 & Catering
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Wednesday, January 18, 2012
We're back with Part 3, our final day of favorites from Nashville's Enchanted Brides bridal show! That's right, we couldn't capture all of our favorites in just two posts, so we wrote three! And even with three posts (Part 1 + Part 2), we still didn't have chance to feature every booth. If you missed this bridal show, you should definitely attend Sunday's bridal show, hosted by Her Nashville and NFocus magazine at WO Smith. Our team will be there.
Special thanks to Ace Photography for providing the event photos shown below.
StudioWed Nashville
Wondering what StudioWed is? Essentially, the meeting place of "exclusive collection of Nashville’s finest wedding professionals, available to you in a fun and modern studio." To top it off, the ladies that run StudioWed are an absolute treat - watch out for their upcoming events! Their booth was great.
Jessie Holloway Photography
Jessie Holloway is a Cookville photographer who is new to the Nashville scene, and this was her first bridal show to attend. Her booth was enchanting and the perfect example of vintage style. Not only did you catch glimpses of her great eye through the displayed photos, you were also able to see her style and her attention to detail - a detailed photographer will capture all of the details you may miss on your wedding day. Jessie is a charming girl and will hopefully continue to wow us with her photos and her style.
Royal Icing Custom Cakes
When I walked up to the Royal Icing booth, my first question was probably the same as everyone elses "what's going on here?" And the response? "We're playing cake!" And it's true, they were! Taking a typical cake booth to a level unseen by us all, Royal Icing decided to keep the typical display and tasting (fresh lavender cake), but added in a hands-on demonstration. Brides could walk up and try their hand at wrapping a fondant cake in various colors of ribbon or lace, to their own design choice. How fun!
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Karen Hendrix Couture
From New York Bridal Fashion Week to the Enchanted Brides Fashion Show, Karen Hendrix Couture's Spring 2012 Collection is wowing everyone. Karen's gown are all custom-made, either to her unique design or from your own creative heart. The gowns are made with intricate detail, sophistication, "luxurious fabrics and a meticulous fit." It was both a pleasure to see her booth and her show, not to mention meeting Karen herself! She may be a marvelous designer, but she is also a joy to talk to.
Ashley Currie (bride-to-be): "Karen Hendrix had several showstopping gowns on the runway and throughout the Enchanted Brides Show. She is a super talented designer with an even greater personality."
Loveless Cafe
Yum! That is the best and easiest description for Loveless Cafe's "Shortcake Sliders". Homemade preserves, including blackberry balsamic and maple strawberry, were stuffed into plain or chocolate chip shortcakes and topped with options such as chocolate syrup and coconut shavings. Top it off with whipped cream and you have the most delightful treat! Besides, who doesn't like a homemade, hands-on snack?
Ashley Currie (bride-to-be): "Biscuits and homemade preserves bar was the display set out by The Loveless Cafe. Yes, it was absolutely delectable."
Many bravos to Enchanted Brides for kicking off the 2012 bridal season and putting on an amazing show. Tony and Gipsy Williams really outdid themselves and it was a treat to meet Gipsy and a few of the workers that helped her put together the show.
Pictured above: Gipsy (middle) and a representative from Monell's speaking to a bridal show attendee.
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Posted by Megan |
Filed under: Bridal Shows & Events
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Tuesday, January 17, 2012
If you missed our recap of the first bridal show of the season, be sure to visit yesterday's post. We're back to share more of our favorite wedding resources from the Enchanted Brides show; all of which offer an array of options for your wedding! All photos by Ace Photography.
Designs in Paper
Designs in Paper are quite obviously, a stationery company. As you can see, they create unique paper goods - from wedding invites to engagement and bridal shower invites. Or, you could choose an entire suite of design, from your save the dates to invites, table numbers, programs, and so on. They had a fun display of ideas and prints at the show!
Classic Party Rentals
How fun is orange and pink! Classic Party Rentals had a lovely and playful display, for an elegant dinner reception. The display featured some of the items available for rental: linens, flatware, glassware, china, and more.
Geny's Weddings and Event Planning
One of the most romantic displays, with again, a touch of fun - polka dots! Who would have imagined that polka dots could be romantic? But this is only one view of the tablescape by Geny's Wedding and Event Planning, they called it a "working booth" and changed the table three times during the event. As we say, planners are important to every wedding!
Dulce Desserts
Polka dots seem to be a running trend, but here Dulce Desserts uses them on a fondant cake (as well as their display tablecloth!). Cupcakes, slices of cake, and other little treats were available to please any brides sweet tooth.
Platinum Jewelers
I can't say I saw too much of this display, I was too busy meeting Chris and hearing how great the designs are from one of his loyal customers! But from what I hear, Platinum Jewelers in Franklin is the place to go for your custom designed ring.
Ashley Currie (bride-to-be): A great booth with even greater pricing. Ladies, they are a great pick for your spouse's wedding band and they carry Tungsten, the new metal your hubby-to-be will love.
Hutton Hotel
As the hosts to the Enchanted Brides Show, Hutton Hotel had a lovely display of their catering options - while simply being at their hotel gave every bride a feel for the space. They had an array of cheese and different items to taste, but most interestingly, they had gazpacho shots. In little glass shot glass, in a modern and unique display, these shots of tomato-based soup would be a great addition to any appetizer choice or for your guests during the cocktail hour.
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Posted by Megan |
Filed under: Bridal Shows & Events
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Monday, January 16, 2012
I haven't been to a bridal show since before my own wedding last June; it was quite an experience to observe and not be searching for vendors! I was happy to attend this year's first bridal show, hosted by Enchanted Brides magazine at the Hutton Hotel. If you missed the Enchanted Brides Show, or you just want to remember the highlights, here is my recap of some of my favorite booths. Ashley Currie, our ABG green wedding expert and bride-to-be, also attended the show so I've included her favorites too.
Special thanks to Ace Photography for providing the lovely images (where noted) shown below.
Regalo Design
As always, Sarah and Damon amazed us all with their Regalo Design booth. They showed every facet of their capabilities - from design with stunning flowers and a lovely table, to their website for virtual planning. They even had a Mojuba Bride Wedding Day Emergency Kit on display from their Wedding Favor shop.
Chef's Market
To show that they are more than just a catering company, Chef's Market showed off their design capabilities with a mix of whimsical and modern table place setting. They take great care in both their food, their presentation, and their staff. Their delicious chocolate truffles were served by one of their own catering staff leaders - a perfect combo display!
Ashley Currie (bride-to-be): "I loved the Chef's Market blue and silver decor - who knew they did it all! Praises to Ricky Carroll, the creative brain behind this great looking booth. "
Ace Photography
I have worked with Ace Photography via email for the past year to feature their weddings on ABG. But, I have never met these photographers until the show and I can now say they are so very nice. Don't take it from me, meet them yourself! Just as others have told me how nice they are, I could tell you the same, but you won't believe me until you say hello. So if you see them at a show, stop by, say hello, and check out their amazing, custom photo books. Each client can order this custom book, put together by Ace Photography, bound in leather in Italy, with a metal front, and shipped back to the customer. They are amazing.
Signature Cakes by Vicki
As alway, Vicki of Signature Cakes by Vicki debuted beautifully designed cakes to see and cake flavors try, including white chocolate truffle, strawberry vanilla, chocolate orange truffle, and key lime margaritaville. My favorite was the keylime!
Branching Out Floral and Event Design
Vicki has a wonderful display, including an arch of flowers over the bouquets and centerpiece options. She also took a moment to tell us about her Shabby Chic Vintage Rentals, which include antique knickknacks like suitcases, 20 sets of matching lanterns, and candle holders. As she put it, don't waste your time hunting down decor items that you will never use again.
Music City Events
Ombre! With her eye on growing trends, Sarah had a display of purple shades - or ombre, as the French say. Her other trends of color and texture created a romantic table for brides to fawn over! Make sure to check out more of Music City Events' capabilities.
Sarah has an impressive flair for matching her booth; here she's wearing an ombre dress!
Ribbons of Chocolate
This was definitely a first for me, and likely for many others who have been to countless bridal shows, but Ribbons of Chocolate actually served chicken and waffles! And, they were scrumptious. I should have had more than one.... But it was just a small showing of their catering abilities. Their fondue fountain was also on display for brides to get an up close look.
Stay tuned for Part 2 of our Enchanted Brides Show coverage tomorrow!
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Posted by Megan |
Filed under: Bridal Shows & Events
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Friday, January 13, 2012
We love Kerried Away Couture; the fresh, custom designs from Kerri are always a treat to see, which is why we were all too happy to share this wedding with you. Allison hired Kerri to create more than just her bridesmaids dresses and fabric pins, Kerri also designed the sash for Allison dress and her hairpiece.
More than just wedding gowns and bridesmaids' dresses, Kerried Away Couture specializes in taking your fashion design and creating a custom piece just for you. The three-step process includes you choosing the style, fabric, and adding your details. You could create a special occasion dress or skirt for your rehearsal dinner, a New Years Eve party, engagement party, or finally help your mother choose the fit and cut that will flatter her on your wedding day.
Kerri explains Allison's design process, which may help other brides see that their vision can, in fact, come to life:
"Allison visited us in our showroom months before her wedding with various photos of dresses she liked. She knew she wanted a 1920-30s look to the dress so we worked with her to design the perfect bridesmaid dresses that were within her budget. Allison went with a navy silk blend that is very pretty and is more budget friendly than the 100% silk. The final design featured a one shoulder gathered bodice and waist band and was actually a compilation of a variety of dress style ideas that she had brought with her to her first consultation."
"The handmade brooches were a nice touch to the classic dress design and she took it one step further by having us make her a hair pin that mimicked the brooch designs to pull everything together. We had such a great time working with Allison and her bridesmaids and were so happy she entrusted us to help with her wedding day."
Allison + RJ
Wedding Date ~ August 6, 2011
Ceremony ~ Sunken Garden at Centennial Park
Reception ~ Big Band Dance at Centennial Park
Guests ~ 25 at Ceremony (plus many passersby that stopped to watch!)
50 at the following Reception
Budget
Less than $10,000
Wedding Team
Planner | Bride and Groom (We did it all ourselves!!)
Photographer | Alex Embry - Photos by Alex
Bridal Gown | White One by Pronovias (bought online), oyster color
Bride's Sash | Designed by Bride, Custom made by Kerried Away Couture
Bride's Shoes | Steve Madden (I’ve had them forever! They are my favorite!)
Bride's Accessories | Earrings from Charming Charlies, Hairpiece by Kerried Away Couture
Reception dress | Sue Wong Ivory Ostrich Feather Flapper dress (bought on Ebay)
Groom’s Attire | Groom’s Seersucker suit from Jos. A Bank
Groomsmen Attire | Suits from Overstock.com
Bridesmaids Attire | Design inspired by Bride, Custom made by Kerried Away Couture
Hair + Makeup | Natalie Armstrong, Bride’s sister
Stationery | Designed by bride/groom at Mixbook.com (We had a Groupon!!)
Ceremony Musicians | Halfbrass
Reception Musicians | Big Band Dance at Centennial Park (FREE Event)
Transportation | Black 1939 Packard from NashvilleWeddingCars.com
Caterer | Allison Armstrong (bride), Nina Armstrong (bride’s mother), and Betty Malone (bride’s aunt)
Cake Artist | Gigi’s Cupcakes
Floral Designer | Melanie at A Village of Flowers
Guest Accommodations | Holiday Inn Vanderbilt
Wedding Details
How would you describe your style as a couple?
Classic, easy going, fun, and family focused.
How did you incorporate that style into your wedding?
We had a 1930’s southern theme. We kept our ceremony low key with only immediate family and the wedding party present. We then used our grandparents’ milk glass serving dishes at the reception and had old black and white photos of them sitting around on the tables for décor. It was very important to us to have them be a part of our special day even though they could only be there in spirit.
We expressed our easy going side by having a public park venue where we knew many passersby would stop and watch from afar if they felt so inclined (and believe me they did!) and then utilizing the FREE Big Band Dance they have in Centennial Park on Saturday nights as our reception venue/entertainment. Everyone had a great time dancing, sitting in their lawn chairs, or relaxing watching others dance!
What was the favorite aspect of your wedding?
Oh my, we loved it all!! I guess if I had to pick one thing it would be Halfbrass playing “In the Mood” marching us, the wedding party, and all ceremony guests out of the ceremony site and through the street to the reception site. The guests seemed to thoroughly enjoy the peanut butter cup cupcakes from Gigi’s, the Mexican glass bottled cokes (out of my grandfather’s original Coca-Cola ice chest), and most of all the handmade lips, mustaches, and other dress up items with instant photos for the guestbook.
Where did you splurge?
Photography, but it was worth every penny! Alex is an awesome photographer and VERY reasonable compared to others that we received quotes from. She will be our photographer for years to come!
Where did you save/DIY?
We did everything ourselves but make the dresses and the cupcakes! I bought my dresses online (from other individuals, not vendors) and got them for half the price of retail! We made all of the food.
Now that the wedding day is over, is there anything about your planning process you feel you could have done differently?
We should have assigned duties to our wedding party for setting up the reception. Our friends and family worked so hard, but we could have had more time to visit with them if it would have been more organized.
In one sentence, what words of advice do you have for couples in the midst of their planning?
Don’t get caught up in having the absolute perfect day, if something goes wrong, “Oh well” the important thing is that you and your spouse are together and, just think, you will have something to look back and laugh at for years to come.
Thank you to Allison and RJ for sharing their intimate day with us - we loved all of the details. And thank you to Kerri of Kerried Away Couture for explaining your design and custom creation process through Allison's wedding!
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Posted by Megan |
Filed under: Attire - Bridal Gowns, Wedding Dresses & Accessories, Real Nashville Weddings
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