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 Finds
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Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Food is an important part of every wedding reception. It helps keep your guests happy and can also help set the tone and feeling of your event. Down South Delights can help you achieve whatever menu you want for your big day. If you are searching for a Nashville wedding caterer, take a few minutes to learn more about Down South Delights via our interview below.
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About Down South Delights, LLC:
Main Contact: Rita Rowland
Phone Number: (615) 513-9147
Email Address: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Visit their website: DownSouthDelightsCatering.com
Become a Facebook fan: Down South Delights
How many years have you been in business?
8 years
How did you get started in weddings?
When I completed culinary school I noticed that there just were not a lot of opportunities in my area for female chefs at the time. This has changed since, but back then women in the kitchen were assigned to baking/pastry work or prep, rarely as an executive chef.
I loved weddings and creating beautiful food so I decided that catering was the route for me. Previously, while working on my bachelors degree in International Business, I had worked as a catering assistant and pastry chef so I had experience in the catering industry. I opened Down South Delights in 2003 and catered one wedding that year. I had only one employee other than myself and now I employ around 25 people. Eight years later and we catered around 150 weddings in 2011!
It has been so amazing that I would not trade it for any other culinary job in the world.
What do you like most about weddings?
My favorite aspect of weddings is the joy and excitement of the day. It is a special time for the couple, their families, and the guests who come to partake in their special moment. Each wedding is unique and I love the special touches couples create for their weddings.
What’s your favorite wedding picture and why?
Wow, having to choose just one is really tough! If I have to choose one, it is of a sushi display that we created several years ago. I love when clients choose items that are not our normal, daily menu items, as the challenge is always fun. A friend of mine created the display pieces for the table and I love making sushi.
What is your service philosophy?
Our service philosophy is, "Your day, your way!". We want the clients wedding to be about their personal style and to reflect them as a couple. So we do not place limitations or discourage their ideas. I do offer suggestions if I see something that will be logistically difficult or if an idea can further personalize their experience.
What are your strengths compared to others in your category? Why should a bride hire you?
A bride should hire Down South Delights for a variety of reasons: DSD's primary focus is on weddings so we have the knowledge and experience that it takes to properly execute a reception. I also offer our clients a level of personal attention that is second to none. We like to get to know each couple and develop a relationship with them as this will be the most important day of their lives. I am always here to answer their wedding related questions even if they are not food related.
Over 90% of our catering is wedding receptions, so this gives us a huge advantage over other companies that may have a full scale restaurant or have many other catering engagements. I think one of our biggest strengths is the fact that we are constantly evolving as a company. My staff is full of young ladies who are up-to-date on current styles and trends, which we incorporate into our displays and menus.
Our staff has such a wide range of food knowledge that we can create anything that a couple envisions or requests. A large number of local chefs and caterers from upscale establishments have called upon us to handle their receptions because of the endless selections we can offer our clients. I've had couples that want to integrate both of their cultures into the menus and we've created a complimenting menu that showcases dishes without clashing or seeming mismatched.
While our name implies that we specialize in southern cuisine we really do not have a particular specialty. We try to make everyday favorites pop and add exciting elements. Whether you are looking for an old fashioned, southern inspired menu or very modern, haute cuisine we can definitely accommodate.
Who are your 5 favorite Nashville wedding vendors – helpfulness, professionalism, style?
Liberty Party Rentals (http://libertypartyrental.com/) ~ They are very professional and always there for any last minute orders. They are super helpful to all of our brides and very informative about assisting with sizes, room layouts, and the setup team is amazing!
Details by Margaret (http://www.detailsbymargaret.com/) ~ She is a personal friend and I just love working with her. She has this bubbly personality that just makes you smile and she is super organized. We worked together on a dozen or more weddings this year and she has great, innovative details for her clients. For example, at a reception this September she had a real tree at the entrance with photos and such, instead of the typical framed pictures on a table.
Scoobie's Photographic Images (http://www.scoobiephoto.com/) ~ I've worked with them on many occasions and he always bring a great team with him. All of my clients are super pleased and the prices are great. I can say, that I will hire him for my own wedding images.
Houston Station (http://www.eventsnashville.net/houston/) ~ This is one of my favorite venues in the Nashville area. The staff here are so helpful and they really make it simple for us to handle our tasks. The value is amazing and they are very accommodating to all of our clients. While other venues put so many stipulations on the client that it dampers their fun with planning, Houston Station is there to assist with all their needs.
Rhonda Patton (http://www.rhondapattonweddings.com/#) ~ I've worked many events with Rhonda including her sister's wedding a few years ago. Her style and attention to detail is fabulous. The colors and designs that she uses in all of her floral design are really inspiring. Her bouquets are my favorite and when you take a look at her site or blog you will definitely agree! She has a true flair for modern design and ingenious creations for the luxe bride.
What advice would you give to brides on the wedding planning process in general?
I tell all of our clients to enjoy choosing your vendors - this is one of the most exciting elements of the planning process, so have a great time doing it and do not stress if it takes time to find the perfect fit for a particular vendor. I know that is point is said a lot, but make sure you connect with your vendors. You will be working with these people for at least several months so you need to make sure that it will be an enjoyable experience!
Another thing I like to remind our clients: Do not let other people dictate your choices. It is great for friends and family to offer advice or suggestions, but this is your wedding. Make sure that you are happy with every element of your day as you, the couple, are getting married!
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What would be doing if you did not work in weddings?
If I was not in the wedding industry, I would own a confectionery (candy) company. I've always wanted a large factory that makes all kinds of chic, gourmet candies. I make candy as a hobby and a friend who works for the CEO of Louis Vuitton, Yves Carcelle, let him sample some of my candies. When he personally called me to let me know how great they were, I almost died! So if I ever retire from weddings, making yummy confections will be my next endeavor for sure.
Contact Down South Delights today for all of your wedding and event catering needs! And just for our ABG readers - receive a complimentary menu tasting (a $100 value)!
All images courtesy of Down South Delights.
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Posted by Newlywed Sara |
Filed under: Our Featured Advertisers!, Cakes & Catering
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Monday, January 23, 2012
My wedding was almost a year ago (how can that be true?), and even though I did all of the planning, I had only been to one bridal show as a bride-to-be. When I was given the opportunity to go to a show for ABG, I jumped at the chance! And I was even more excited to be able to go to the Inspired Bride show at Houston Station, hosted by Studio Wed. I’ve put together some of my favorite finds at the show, along with the favorites of Betsy, our wonderful new intern, who came along with me!
All images, except where noted, courtesy of Justin Wright Photography.
Southern Events
Southern Events is a go-to shop for many brides and their rental needs. As usual, they did not disappoint. Adding to their stock of rental items, they have farm tables and benches that are adorable! The display was so beautiful and rustic. They also had some whiskey barrels on display that would be great as a guest book table at an event.
Betsy Coughlin {ABG Intern}: “I was immediately charmed by Southern Events’ table display. The table setting was embellished by mix-matched china and delicate lace, perfected by dimly lit candles and robin-egg blue flowers. Their vintage gems are perfect for the classic bride!”
Justin Wright Photography
I’ve always been a big fan of Justin Wright Photography and I loved seeing his display. The canvas prints and books he had out on the table were absolutely gorgeous and really showed the variety of the shots he is able to create.
Tanastacia
Tanastacia is a brand new salon off 8th Avenue that would be a great place to take your bridal party. They had tons of products available to sample, along with facial mapping to help the brides figure out what products would be best for their skin. At the spa, they are able to accommodate parties, and can offer facials and other services all in the same room so that you and your bridesmaids can enjoy your day together.
Brocade Designs
I’m a little biased when it comes to Hillary and her Brocade Designs work since I used her for my own wedding, but she really outdid herself at the show. She brought three different table displays that were all incredible. The first, a rustic farm table with incredible centerpieces and darling lantern details. The second was a brightly colored table with lots of little touches. The third table was so elegant, a white and crystal table with purple touches.
Betsy Coughlin {ABG Intern}: “Never have I seen colors that beautiful in flower petals, only amplified by the elegant lanterns that hung overhead. What highlights Brocade Designs’ splendor from my perspective is its strive to cultivate a relationship with its clients in order to capture the spirit of the couple through a wide array of bouquets, boutonnieres, personal flowers, altar arrangements, ceremony structures, and reception centerpieces. The design of the flowers sings something special about that particular couple. What a lovely concept for a wedding day!
J. Hilburn
I was excited when we visited the J. Hilburn booth as it is the rare wedding vendor that caters to grooms. They offer custom men’s clothing – shirts, suits, sweaters, ties, etc. and all with a 100% guarantee. The quality of the clothes is great, but the price tag is affordable. And as a bonus, they will come to you for appointments at your home or work!
Image by ABG
Chef's Market
Carol and the rest of the team at Chef’s Market always provide tasty treats, and this show was no exception. They had tacos to serve up to the brides and grooms, and of course dessert! The red-velvet truffles were so tasty – I believe Betsy and I were saying “yum!” for about 5 minutes after we were finished. Along with the Bridal Tasting they are offering on January 26, you can schedule a tasting with them any time!
Image by ABG
Sugar Wagon
To follow up our first dessert, we stopped by the Sugar Wagon booth next! The homemade peanut butter cups are a specialty of theirs, and I can see why. Along with yummy treats, how fun would it be to have a food cart at your wedding? Sugar Wagon is a gourmet ice cream sandwich cart.
Betsy Coughlin {ABG Intern}: “The contagious smiles of Tracey and Jane, made me love them before I tasted anything they offered! Truly, these women are precious, and their spirits are just as fun as their idea: a pastry company combined with a mobile cart that shares a variety of confections and ice cream goodies! Heart-shaped red velvet cupcakes with white chocolate mouse filling and cream cheese frosting were the centerpiece of their display, showcasing a perfect glimpse of The Sugar Wagon’s charm—captivating for any wedding day!”
The Bake Shoppe
The cakes that The Bake Shoppe had on display were simply amazing! Lots of adorable details were on each cake – it would be hard to choose just one if you had to!
Amber Housley Design
I had heard great things about Amber Housley but had never seen her work in person myself. I was blown away by the number of details and amount of thought that went into each display. My favorite table was elegant but simple with patterned china plates and touches of pink throughout.
Betsy Coughlin {ABG Intern}: “Amber is a master of details, and finds a great joy in weaving distinguished loves between a bride and groom throughout their special day. These are the quirks, the inside jokes, the signatures of your shared story that all who know you take precious delight in. This especially shines through Amber’s sparkle for stationary, which offers the guests a tiny flavor of what the day will present.”
The Bride Room
If I could get married again, the dress that The Bride Room had at their booth would be the one I would wear. They had a beautiful wedding dress, tuxedo and bridesmaid dress on display in the middle of the show in front of a backlit, ruffled curtain. Little accents really made the display, like the sheet music flowers on their info table.
Leigh, Mary Alice and all of the ladies from Studio Wed put on a wonderful show and I’m so glad that we got to experience it. It was a great window into the amazing things that Nashville vendors will be bringing to weddings in 2012!
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Posted by Newlywed Sara |
Filed under: Bridal Shows & Events
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Sunday, January 22, 2012
TLC is taking Kleinfeld Bridal's Randy Fenoli away from "Say Yes To The Dress" and bringing the show on the road, with a stop in Nashville... Randy to the Rescue! Whether you want your 15 minutes of fame or want celebrity help finding your perfect wedding dress, Randy is coming to Nashville on March 11!
Here's the scoop straight from the casting representative:
Some wedding gowns need a train. Others require a semi-truck.
Do you dream of walking down the aisle with the help of New York City’s premiere bridal expert but your budget doesn’t include a trip to the big apple? Never fear! It’s Randy to the Rescue!
For the first time ever, TLC’s Say Yes to the Dress fashion expert (and resident “FOB” – friend-of-the-bride) Randy, is heading off the floor of Kleinfeld and behind the wheel of a big rig – to bring his favorite gowns, his unsurpassed dress knowledge, and his signature “head-to-hem” styling approach to you!
If you love TLC’s Say Yes to the Dress but live miles away from New York City, now is your chance.
To learn more about the show + the bridal gown tour, visit this link - TLC.com.
To buy tickets to see Randy during his Nashville stop, visit this site - TheWeddingGuys.com.
To be considered for the show, email your name, age, location, and wedding date ASAP to randytotherescue {at} gmail {dot} com.
OUR NEXT STOPS…
San Diego, CA-2/4
Las Vegas, NV-2/18
New Orleans, LA-2/26
Nashville, TN-3/11
Cincinnati, OH-3/18
Boston, MA-4/1
Minneapolis, MN-4/15
Mark your calendars for March 11 and send in your emails!
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Posted by Megan |
Filed under: Attire - Bridal Gowns, Wedding Dresses & Accessories, Bridal Shows & Events
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Friday, January 20, 2012
Sunday is the Her Nashville bridal show and the crew at AshleysBrideGuide.com will attend to see what bridal goodies we can find to share with you next week. I reached out to Christy at Her Nashville to see what's in store for you. Here's what she had to say, " There will be a runway show (1pm) featuring gowns from Arzelle's, hair and make-up by Jon Alan Salon and flowers from Emma's. It's a great chance to meet with and talk with the vendors in a comfortable and intimate setting."
The show promises to be "The most fun way to plan your wedding is back! Join Her and Nfocus for an exciting wedding fashion show including food, mimosas or Cuestion tequila sunrise, and exhibitions from the best vendors in the wedding industry. It’s a one-stop shop to help you plan your perfect wedding..."
We're sold! To get your tickets, follow this link. We hope to see you there. If you see anyone from our team, say hello!
Date/Time:
Jan 22 from 11am-2pm (1pm runway show)
Location:
W.O. Smith School of Music
1125 8th Avenue South
Nashville, TN 37203
Vendors include:
5 Hour Energy | AmosEvents | Arzelle's | Cheekwood | Cuestion Tequila | Emma's Flowers | Fanciful Ink | Girl with the Pearl | Jon Alan Salon | Julia From Scratch | Maggiano's Little Italy | Nero's Grill | Perl Catering | Platinum Jewelers | Radisson Hotel | Stella & Dot - Kim Wright | The Corner Market | Wedding 101
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Posted by Ashley of Ashley's Bride Guide |
Filed under: Bridal Shows & Events
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