D

Wedding Party Studio’s “September Soiree”

I just love the Wedding Party Studio’s themed cocktail parties. They’re relaxed, cozy and filled with great information. We had an oh-so-glamorous time at the last one themed, ”Gatsby Glam.” Join them for this month’s soiree, “Wedding in the City” on Wednesday, September 16 from 6-8pm for an evening filled with “chic wedding inspirations.” Sip Delos Vodka cosmopolitans and munch on hors d’oeuvres from Wendy Krispin catering while you mix and mingle with photographers, event planners, floral designers, and many more.

Extravaganza Gets Invitations Right

So we threw my mom a surprise party for her 50th birthday. We—dad, sister, and I—are serious procrastinators. Last minute we realize that invitations probably should have gone out a week before, so I get on the phone with Extravaganza in Flower Mound (who did my high school grad notes, weird family newsletters, holiday photos, college graduation announcements, grad party invitations, professional thank you notes, etc.) With the serious help of the friendly and supportive staff, I managed to choose a design—a beautiful one I should add—send in my request for the text, okay the proofs, and pick up the final product in a matter of four total business days without stepping foot in the store. (Except to pick up the invites, of course.) Extravaganza is amazing. And you won’t be disappointed in the final result. They carry quality invitation and stationery lines, including Birchcraft, Paper Duvet, Crane, Paper Orchid, and Cross My Heart with tons of designs in-store to look at.

I didn’t have to spend time in the store because I trust Extravaganza implicitly, but you may want to so you can take home a delicious Tyler Candle or personalized note set. This could definitely be your one-stop shop for engagement party announcements, save-the-dates, wedding invites, and thank yous. Get contact info here.

One Kings Lane Sale Is Too Good To Be True, So Get There Before July 11

I blogged about a bridal event on One Kings Lane last month. Well, they are having yet another sale.

You can get great Graphic Image guest books for $50. (They retail for around $75-100.) 

But the catch is, you have to be a member of this site to reap the rewards. To become a member, just email me and I will send you an invitation.

The sale items change weekly. These great items are no longer available after 11 a.m. July 11th.

40% Off Entire Purchase at Bestow Boutique

If you’re looking for a fun, funky gift for a bride, bridesmaids, groomsmen or your goth friend check out Bestow Boutique. They’re selection of unique wedding favors and gifts is a breath of fresh air. They’ve got fantastic silver or gold skull swizzle sticks (pictured) as well as “softer” items like pretty lingerie and pillows emblazoned with the “L” word. Even the most common items have a little edge to them to keep your gifts from being ordinary, or, dare I say, boring. The best part of Bestow Boutique is that right now they are offering 40% off your entire purchase. That will save you a ton if you’re buying for multiple people or getting wedding favors. Just use promo code SMC09 at check out. This is a limited time offer so get crackin’!

Behind-the-Scenes at the D Weddings Gown Shoot

If you haven’t already seen the gown feature in the new D Weddings be sure to check it out. It takes months and months of planning for such a huge photo shoot to take place. From dresses to shoes to the set design to catering for the staff, getting everything and everyone in the right place at the right time is no small endeavor—but somehow we did it. And with D Magazine’s fashion director, Stephanie Quadri, on board this time, I have to say this is our best yet. Her styling expertise and exquisite taste were just what we needed to outdo ourselves. To get in on the action check out the behind-the-scenes video.

Beautiful, Unique Gifts and Favors From Navy & Lavender

When Michelle Lederer and Michal Mufson, both former Vera Wang press employees, were planning their own weddings they noticed a lack of classy, high-quality items for attendant gifts and reception favors. So after Michal finished grad school, she and Michelle (who was then working in the PR department at Oscar de la Renta) decided to take matters into their own hands and create a web-based store that would fill this niche. The result was Navy & Lavender, a site with fantastic gift ideas including custom favors, welcome gift bags for out-of-town guests and even goodies for the new baby. Your bridesmaids will love one of several gift bags with themes like “Jet Setter” which includes a passport holder, eye mask, luggage tag, travel journal and an adorable shoe bag. The same goes for groomsmen gift bags with names like “Shaken, Not Stirred” for the martini connoisseur or “Tee Time” for the golf enthusiast. There’s one for every personality. The most robust part of the web site is the favors section. Choose from a plethora of non-cheesy (thank God!) items like Asian-inspired frosted coasters, love bird salt and pepper shakers, wine stoppers, scented soaps and bookmarks. Navy & Lavender also has a fantastic selection of place card holders that run the gamut from rolling pins to Adirondack chairs to holiday ornaments. And guess what? They’re all cute! Lastly, don’t miss their custom favors for something more personal, or their “Favor Cake,” a tower of beautifully wrapped gifts that guests can grab as they head home.

Addison-based Posta Bella Stationery Does Custom Wedding Illustrations

Just got a nice note from local artist Jamie Pickerell of Posta Bella Stationery, who recently added custom wedding illustations to her line of services. She hand draws them in art marker or watercolor, depending on the look you desire. Commission them for keepsakes–she’ll draw anything, including gowns, rings, cakes, flowers, and accessories–or use them for notecards and coordinating envelopes. These could make lovely, personal thank you notes or gifts for your bridesmaids or hostesses.

One Kings Lane Sale Is Too Good To Be True, So Get There Before June 6

I am addicted to One Kings Lane for home accessories. For those of you who aren’t familiar, it is a members-only discount retailer. They get in batches of brand-name products and discount them by 50% for 3-4 days at a time.

Much to my surprise, this week they have a gallery of Mindy Weiss bridal accessories. I just bought an Ultimate Wedding Planner for my friend for $48. (It retails for around $100.) You’d better hurry–once they’re out of stock, the sale is over!

P.S. You have to be invited by a member. So click on my name below and shoot me an email.

Plano’s Imagique Hair and Spa Will Cover All Your Wedding Needs

Caring, attentive management = happy employees = happier clients. That’s how they do things at Imagique, a unique concept salon/spa that leases out “suites” to stylists, nail techs, masseurs and estheticians rather than the ”stations” leased out by  most salons. The management team is dedicated to providing clients and employees  with a clean, sleek, inviting location that will make them all feel special. Why not do the same for your bridal party, out-of-town guests (who can stay at Nylo, the boutique hotel across the street from Imagique), or even yourself? Since there are so many different technicians and treatments available it would be perfect as a special treat for your bridesmaids. Some could get her hair done while others indulge in a massage, facial, or mani/pedi. Or, you could utilize their stylists for your big day ‘dos. The quiet, relaxed atmosphere will keep everyone’s stress level to a minimum. (more…)

Robbie Adrian’s Organic Monogrammed Blankets Will Keep Bridesmaids Cozy

Not sure what to get your ‘maids to thank them for putting up with your Bridezilla moments? How about a monogrammed organic, fleece throw from Robbie Adrian? The blankets come in natural (light beige) or chocolate (dark brown) so they’ll work with any decor. And you can choose from seven different trim colors to match their unique personalities. Initials or names can be embroidered on them as well. Eco-conscious celebs like Katie Holmes, Nicole Richie, Jessica Alba and Matthew McConaughey are fans and your best friends will be too. Even the packaging is earth-friendly with hand-crafted gift boxes made of natural materials and receipts printed on seeded lotka paper that when planted yield red and white Coreopsis and Sweet Alyssum flowers! It’s like giving two gifts in one and taking care of the planet at the same time. Prices range from $132-$226. Order by clicking the link above.