Photo Sources:
1. Cuff Links, 2. Favors, 3. Dresses, 4. Cupcake, 5. Cake, 6. Stationary, 7. Table Decor
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Inspiration: Pretty in Pale Pink
Picking the colors for your wedding is always a challenge. It is just as important as your wedding theme. I just love the elegance and softness of pale pink. Soak it all in! I hope that you all had a fabulous extended weekend with your friends and family. Lovebirds Productions has some big news to let you in on soon!! Enjoy the touches of pink!
Photo Sources:
1. Cuff Links, 2. Favors, 3. Dresses, 4. Cupcake, 5. Cake, 6. Stationary, 7. Table Decor
Photo Sources:
1. Cuff Links, 2. Favors, 3. Dresses, 4. Cupcake, 5. Cake, 6. Stationary, 7. Table Decor
Monday, May 30, 2011
Happy Memorial Day!
Happy Memorial Day! Whatever today brings, I hope that you are blessed. I am so grateful for the men and women who fight for our country! Have a wonderful day and can't wait to see you all tomorrow!
Photo Source: Here
Friday, May 27, 2011
Inspiration: The Great Outdoors
Today I am drawing my inspiration from the great outdoors. We all know what being outside can do to lift your spirits. Whether it is a little sun on your skin, dancing under the stars or a walking in the park, being outside just warms the heart.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
DIY Farewell Bells
I saw this DIY project on Style Me Pretty via Twig and Thistle and thought it was so cute! It screams southern elegance and is a classy touch for your wedding departure. Guests will love ringing these bells and will have a fun keepsake from your wedding! Don't you just love these?
Here is what you need:
Small Hand Bells
Color Printer
Paper
Card Stock
Ruler
X-acto Knife
Scissors
Directions:
Step 1: Download Bell Labels and Sign here (Include PDFs) and print onto white paper and card stock as directed. Trim out each label with an x-acto knife ruler and self-healing cutting mat. You can also download the green labels or gray labels.
Step 2: Once the tags have been cut out, snip half way in on either side where indicated by black line. wrap tag around bell handle and secure by interlocking slots.
Step 3: Secure sign in a decorative clip and display!
These pictures below are also step by step instructions for when you make the bells.
The finished result:
I just love these cute bells! Just image walking by all your guests to the sound of bells ringing! Sigh...
Here is what you need:
Small Hand Bells
Color Printer
Paper
Card Stock
Ruler
X-acto Knife
Scissors
Directions:
Step 1: Download Bell Labels and Sign here (Include PDFs) and print onto white paper and card stock as directed. Trim out each label with an x-acto knife ruler and self-healing cutting mat. You can also download the green labels or gray labels.
Step 2: Once the tags have been cut out, snip half way in on either side where indicated by black line. wrap tag around bell handle and secure by interlocking slots.
Step 3: Secure sign in a decorative clip and display!
These pictures below are also step by step instructions for when you make the bells.
The finished result:
I just love these cute bells! Just image walking by all your guests to the sound of bells ringing! Sigh...
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Around the Clock
Last week I posted on basic etiquette for bridal showers (viewable here). The joy of bridal showers is you never have to repeat a theme. There are so many themes to choose from and tailor to your bride. I do encourage before throwing a bridal shower you check with the bride as to what she needs. If she needs the overall basics a shower listing her registries is key. If she is in need of funds for the honeymoon, throw a honeymoon themed shower that allows guests to provide money or excursions for the couple to enjoy.
Concept: I saw this idea for a shower and loved it! It is called Around the Clock. This shower theme highlights different times of the day. It may sound odd but let me explain! The hostesses of the shower will assign a time on each invitation. For example, if I get the time 8 a.m. I might bring a waffle maker or a subscription to the newspaper. Another fun time would be 1 a.m. I think I would bring a do not disturb sign for the bedroom door or even candles and massage oils. Hey...what did you expect? You can also make descriptive times on the invitation for guests like game time, cooking time or breakfast time. The time helps guests bring a specific gift for the bride and also helps on cutting down on the bride getting too many coffee pots (one of my best friends got 3 at one shower) or toasters. Guests get to be creative and the theme allows everyone to enjoy themselves!
Centerpieces: Did I mention I was going to help you with this idea as much as possible? I love you guys! A fun centerpiece would be to decorate each table with various flowers. For one table you can use wildflowers because wildflowers are what the bride would bring home when she was little after a long day of playing outside. You can decorate another table with flowers that the bride received every year for making the honor role. You can also use flowers the bride's fiancé always brings her. With each table, make a simple note to display on the table explaining the meaning of each flower.
Another idea is to use pictures of the bride growing up. Each table can have a picture of a different age of the bride. This represents the progression of the bride's life. You can also display a cute note about what age the bride is, her favorite things at that age and what she was always busy doing. For example, if there was a picture of me at age 10, the card would say Katie at age 10. She enjoyed riding her bike, playing Barbie's and dressing up in her Grandmother's high heels. Her favorite foods were Mac and Cheese plus Flintstones Push Pops (Remember how good those things were?)
You can always decorate with cute clocks like alarm clocks or fun wall clocks!
Menu: The menu can be so fun! I would suggest serving foods for various times of the day. Have an area for breakfast items like crepes and waffles that guests can top with their favorite toppings. You can also have homemade pizzas to represent dinner and small sandwiches and fruit for lunchtime. Don't forget a yummy cake! The cake could say things like: Wishing You the Time of Your Life or We Love You Today, Tomorrow, and Always.
Games: You can always tailor a shower game to the shower theme or pick one you have played before. I enjoy shower games because depending on your group of people it allows guests to loosen up! I like a good mad lib. I attended a wedding this past year were guests filled out a mad lib and left it for the bride and groom to read later. What a fun keepsake! Have your maid of honor right down the story of how you met your groom. Take out a handful of keywords and asks guests to fill in a blank with an adjective, verb or noun. Each guests gets to add a word! Read the story back out loud and let your guests have a good laugh! This is a fun keepsake for the bride and groom. You could even bring a frame to frame it for her to take home.
Favors: Favors are probably my favorite thing about each shower I attend! For Around the Clock, you can give guests kitchen timers or yummy clock cookies. My friend Lacye of Lacye's Cakery and Cookies is wonderful! You check out her blog here and her Facebook here. She does it all and it tastes great!
Remember that you are free to make the shower just how you like it. Honor your bride and make sure your guests enjoy themselves!
Concept: I saw this idea for a shower and loved it! It is called Around the Clock. This shower theme highlights different times of the day. It may sound odd but let me explain! The hostesses of the shower will assign a time on each invitation. For example, if I get the time 8 a.m. I might bring a waffle maker or a subscription to the newspaper. Another fun time would be 1 a.m. I think I would bring a do not disturb sign for the bedroom door or even candles and massage oils. Hey...what did you expect? You can also make descriptive times on the invitation for guests like game time, cooking time or breakfast time. The time helps guests bring a specific gift for the bride and also helps on cutting down on the bride getting too many coffee pots (one of my best friends got 3 at one shower) or toasters. Guests get to be creative and the theme allows everyone to enjoy themselves!
Centerpieces: Did I mention I was going to help you with this idea as much as possible? I love you guys! A fun centerpiece would be to decorate each table with various flowers. For one table you can use wildflowers because wildflowers are what the bride would bring home when she was little after a long day of playing outside. You can decorate another table with flowers that the bride received every year for making the honor role. You can also use flowers the bride's fiancé always brings her. With each table, make a simple note to display on the table explaining the meaning of each flower.
Another idea is to use pictures of the bride growing up. Each table can have a picture of a different age of the bride. This represents the progression of the bride's life. You can also display a cute note about what age the bride is, her favorite things at that age and what she was always busy doing. For example, if there was a picture of me at age 10, the card would say Katie at age 10. She enjoyed riding her bike, playing Barbie's and dressing up in her Grandmother's high heels. Her favorite foods were Mac and Cheese plus Flintstones Push Pops (Remember how good those things were?)
You can always decorate with cute clocks like alarm clocks or fun wall clocks!
Menu: The menu can be so fun! I would suggest serving foods for various times of the day. Have an area for breakfast items like crepes and waffles that guests can top with their favorite toppings. You can also have homemade pizzas to represent dinner and small sandwiches and fruit for lunchtime. Don't forget a yummy cake! The cake could say things like: Wishing You the Time of Your Life or We Love You Today, Tomorrow, and Always.
Games: You can always tailor a shower game to the shower theme or pick one you have played before. I enjoy shower games because depending on your group of people it allows guests to loosen up! I like a good mad lib. I attended a wedding this past year were guests filled out a mad lib and left it for the bride and groom to read later. What a fun keepsake! Have your maid of honor right down the story of how you met your groom. Take out a handful of keywords and asks guests to fill in a blank with an adjective, verb or noun. Each guests gets to add a word! Read the story back out loud and let your guests have a good laugh! This is a fun keepsake for the bride and groom. You could even bring a frame to frame it for her to take home.
Favors: Favors are probably my favorite thing about each shower I attend! For Around the Clock, you can give guests kitchen timers or yummy clock cookies. My friend Lacye of Lacye's Cakery and Cookies is wonderful! You check out her blog here and her Facebook here. She does it all and it tastes great!
Remember that you are free to make the shower just how you like it. Honor your bride and make sure your guests enjoy themselves!
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Please excuse the mess...
No there is no mess but I have been doing a bit of traveling today. I am sorry that I have not posted but I, Katie Farrin, do solemnly promise to post tomorrow about a fun wedding topic. This topic is fun and can be flirty! I hope that each of you are feeling blessed today and keeping your sanity no matter what stage you are in the wedding planning process or if you are just looking for inspiration. This Lovebird will be back bright and early in the morning. You guys are the best!
Have you liked me on Facebook yet? If not, hop on over by clicking here! I have Twitter too! View it here!
Have you liked me on Facebook yet? If not, hop on over by clicking here! I have Twitter too! View it here!
Monday, May 23, 2011
Movie Review: Bridesmaids
Happy Monday Lovebirds! This past Saturday my sweet girlfriend Rachel and I loaded up and went to see Bridesmaids. We thought we would get better choice of seats and cheaper tickets by viewing the matinee but every women in Jonesboro had our idea too! You know that I am not a professional when it comes to movie reviews (obvious by my previous review here) but I figure why not let others know if it is worth seeing or not.
I loved the cast! They were talented and fun! The only thing that I do not like is the foul language. They like to curse! This picture gives you a sneak peek at how much action + laugh out loud comedy you will experience.
Is it a date movie? No! I hate to say it but my loving husband would have rolled his eyes at me when the lights came up after the movie was finished. This is a definite girlfriend movie. Besides, we all need a night out with the girls every once in a while!
How many stars? 4.0 stars out of 5! You are going to laugh, cry, smile, make mental notes of movie quotes, dance in your seat, lean over and giggle with your girlfriend and by the end of it, feel warm and fuzzy. This movie has an awesome plot and accurately depicts what goes on to get a wedding together i.e. craziness.
For more on the movie, click here. Praying you all have a fabulous Monday!
I loved the cast! They were talented and fun! The only thing that I do not like is the foul language. They like to curse! This picture gives you a sneak peek at how much action + laugh out loud comedy you will experience.
Photo Source: Here
Is it a date movie? No! I hate to say it but my loving husband would have rolled his eyes at me when the lights came up after the movie was finished. This is a definite girlfriend movie. Besides, we all need a night out with the girls every once in a while!
How many stars? 4.0 stars out of 5! You are going to laugh, cry, smile, make mental notes of movie quotes, dance in your seat, lean over and giggle with your girlfriend and by the end of it, feel warm and fuzzy. This movie has an awesome plot and accurately depicts what goes on to get a wedding together i.e. craziness.
For more on the movie, click here. Praying you all have a fabulous Monday!
Friday, May 20, 2011
Love Song Friday, Volume 9
It is crazy to think that we are already to Volume 9 of Love Song Friday. Today I chose a new song I heard and am in love with the lyrics. It is sweet. It is Jillian Edwards "Go Together."
My favorite lyrics are:
Paint to a canvas
First day to nervous
Birthday to a wish
Long distance call to I miss you
Want to go together with you
I am including two versions of the song. The first is a live version and the second is the cheesy random photo inserts version.
I hope that you all have a fabulous weekend!! It is Friday Lovebirds!
My favorite lyrics are:
Paint to a canvas
First day to nervous
Birthday to a wish
Long distance call to I miss you
Want to go together with you
I am including two versions of the song. The first is a live version and the second is the cheesy random photo inserts version.
I hope that you all have a fabulous weekend!! It is Friday Lovebirds!
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Survival Bridal Kit
Your wedding day is such a blur and full of emotions. Everyone is rushing around and working to make your day perfect. No matter how much you plan for your big day, mishaps can happen. Having an emergency bridal kit on hand is a must. You can purchase a kit online or create your own. Here are a few things to include in your kit:
1. Nail File
2. Bobby Pins
3. Hairspray
4. Band aids
5. Sewing Kit i.e. needles, thread, buttons
6. Downy Wrinkle Release Spray
7. Shout Wipes
8. Oil Dabbing Wipes for your face
9. Deodorant
10. Super Glue
11. Tampons
12. Gum
13. Rolaids
14. Aspirin
15. Clear Nail Polish
16. Fashion Tape
17. Lip Gloss
18. Straws for drinking champagne (We can't have smudged lipstick!)
19. Lint Roller
20. Tissues
These are just a handful of things that you can add to your emergency bridal kit. You can create this kit or have your bridesmaids make it. Regardless, you can pass it on to other brides!
If you have any suggestions for things to add the emergency bridal kit, comment below!
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
DIY Confetti Invitations
I debuted a photo this morning of a confetti invitation and wanted to find a DIY tutorial immediately. I got lucky and found a step-by-step guide on how to create these little beauties.
Materials:
Cheap Party Poppers (you can find these at most party supply stores) 12 for $10
Confetti (buy this or make your own--get out your hole punches!)
Invitations - You can use confetti on a string or you could easily just do a small square piece of paper and just fold it up.
Label Paper
and then download the template for free right here or you can design your own.
You can find detailed instructions and more on this DIY invitation by clicking here.
Materials:
Cheap Party Poppers (you can find these at most party supply stores) 12 for $10
Confetti (buy this or make your own--get out your hole punches!)
Invitations - You can use confetti on a string or you could easily just do a small square piece of paper and just fold it up.
Label Paper
and then download the template for free right here or you can design your own. You can find detailed instructions and more on this DIY invitation by clicking here.
Wedding Etiquette 101: Hosting the Bridal Shower
I want to start posting tidbits of Wedding Etiquette for you but I want to start by saying in no way am I an expert. Weddings are an always changing thing and my etiquette is simply basic etiquette. Always feel free to adapt your own traditions and rules. Now, for today's topic: Who hosts the bridal shower?
According to tradition, the bridal shower should not be hosted by any of the bride's immediate family. Most hostess include the maid or matron of honor plus bridesmaids. If the bridal party requests the help of other close friends, this is okay but the responsibility relies on the maid or matron of honor. The hostess of the party should always be alongside the bride while greeting guests.
When I was getting married, we had five showers. Yes five! We were incredibly blessed. My bridal party, family and close friends were so kind to us! When having multiple showers, make sure to not duplicate your guests on your guests lists. You can help hostess keep track by providing the guest lists or assisting them while they create it.
When should invitations go out for the shower? All shower invites should be sent out six weeks to a month before the shower. Also an important rule of thumb, your guests at your showers should all be invited to the wedding. You wouldn't want to take a gift from someone and then not send them an invite to the wedding.
What type of invitation should I send? Most brides can help with the invitation design but I would suggest keeping with the brides theme for the wedding. A mailed invitation is proper etiquette and not a email message. Email's are more used for save-the-dates or a fun bachelorette party invite. You can tailor the invite to your theme for the shower. For example, use invitation with kitchen appliances and cooking materials for a kitchen themed shower or pounding.
Shower Traditions: One tradition that I have read about that is so sweet and very old fashioned is the grooming showing up with flowers for the bride right before she opens her gifts. I love this idea! With how busy brides and grooms are during the months leading up to the wedding this may not be possible. Another tradition that I have been apart of is keeping the bows from gifts to create a bouquet for the bride to use during the wedding rehearsal. You can always create new traditions too! Get creative!
If you have any questions or suggestions on shower etiquette, please email or comment below!
When I was getting married, we had five showers. Yes five! We were incredibly blessed. My bridal party, family and close friends were so kind to us! When having multiple showers, make sure to not duplicate your guests on your guests lists. You can help hostess keep track by providing the guest lists or assisting them while they create it.
When should invitations go out for the shower? All shower invites should be sent out six weeks to a month before the shower. Also an important rule of thumb, your guests at your showers should all be invited to the wedding. You wouldn't want to take a gift from someone and then not send them an invite to the wedding.
What type of invitation should I send? Most brides can help with the invitation design but I would suggest keeping with the brides theme for the wedding. A mailed invitation is proper etiquette and not a email message. Email's are more used for save-the-dates or a fun bachelorette party invite. You can tailor the invite to your theme for the shower. For example, use invitation with kitchen appliances and cooking materials for a kitchen themed shower or pounding.
Shower Traditions: One tradition that I have read about that is so sweet and very old fashioned is the grooming showing up with flowers for the bride right before she opens her gifts. I love this idea! With how busy brides and grooms are during the months leading up to the wedding this may not be possible. Another tradition that I have been apart of is keeping the bows from gifts to create a bouquet for the bride to use during the wedding rehearsal. You can always create new traditions too! Get creative!
If you have any questions or suggestions on shower etiquette, please email or comment below!
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Amazing Proposal Video: Lucky in Love
Disclaimer: This video is going to make you cry! I saw this video this morning and keep tearing up just thinking about it.
The time and creativity that went into this proposal is amazing! I love how sweet this couple is with each other. Grab some tissues...I warned you.
LUCK - NYC Wedding Propsal from Aria Melody DJ on Vimeo.
Are you sobbing? I told you. Incredible! I just love how they can keep and watch this video whenever they want!
For more on the interview from the groom, click here.
The time and creativity that went into this proposal is amazing! I love how sweet this couple is with each other. Grab some tissues...I warned you.
LUCK - NYC Wedding Propsal from Aria Melody DJ on Vimeo.
Are you sobbing? I told you. Incredible! I just love how they can keep and watch this video whenever they want!
For more on the interview from the groom, click here.
Engagement Session: Cooking in the Kitchen
Engagement pictures are your way of announcing your upcoming wedding to friends and family. These pictures can be simple or you can choose a theme. I saw this kitchen inspired engagement session on Lovely Little Details and fell in love. I love the idea of cooking in the kitchen while showcasing your love for one another. This idea has the old charm feel of the white picketed fence and the suburbs.
This inspires me to cook up something in the kitchen for my sweetheart. Check out this cute idea and brainstorm ideas for your engagement shoot:
Photo Source: Lovely Little Details via Shutter Candy Photography
I love these photos so much! This couple is so creative and these photos set the tone for their wedding. What a lovely couple!
Be blessed Lovebirds!
This inspires me to cook up something in the kitchen for my sweetheart. Check out this cute idea and brainstorm ideas for your engagement shoot:
Photo Source: Lovely Little Details via Shutter Candy Photography
I love these photos so much! This couple is so creative and these photos set the tone for their wedding. What a lovely couple!
Be blessed Lovebirds!
Monday, May 16, 2011
Movie Review: Something Borrowed
I want to apologize for my absence lately. With blogger down on Friday and the beginning of the DeClerk wedding weekend, I was a busy bee but I wouldn't have it any other way! It was so much fun and I can't wait to share all the details with you! The beautiful couple is now honeymooning in Costa Rica!
Now on to my review of Something Borrowed. I loved the cast. It was star studded and even had a few new faces.
I don't want to give too much away if you haven't already seen it or read the book but I was not a huge fan of the moral delima in the plot. It pushes you on your beliefs with dating and relationships. I did love the comedy and how developed the characters were. At the end of the movie, I did have that "Boy this was fun" feeling but still felt this little ping for some of the things that happened along the way.
Is it a date movie? Yes! Rusty and I loved going together and then discussing afterwards. We loved the laughter throughout the movie.
How many stars? 3.5 stars out of 5! Also know that I will not ever give 5 stars unless I am completely wowed!
Here is a synopsis:
As she waits to enter her 30th birthday party, Rachel White (Ginnifer goodwin) can’t escape the feeling that her life has not turned out like she thought it would. Sure, she has a good job at a prestigious Manhattan law firm, but she works long hours and her boss is a tyrant.
She has her childhood best friend, the beautiful and vivacious Darcy (Kate Hudson), but seeing her flirt with her handsome fiancé is just another reminder that at the end of the party―like every other night―she’ll be going home alone. Except this time…she doesn’t. Rachel wakes up the following morning next to Dex (Colin Egglesfield), her law school study partner…and Darcy’s fiancé. Both of them are horrified―how could they let this happen?
Rachel tries to move on with the support of school friend ETHAN (John Krasinski), but as the wedding approaches she begins to realize that it wasn’t a mistake after all, and maybe Darcy isn’t the friend she thought she was.
Now Rachel has to make a painful choice: her best friend or the love of her life?
Dun Dun Dun...I know, dramatic. If you have seen the movie, let me know what you think by commenting below!
Happy Monday Lovebirds!
Now on to my review of Something Borrowed. I loved the cast. It was star studded and even had a few new faces.
I don't want to give too much away if you haven't already seen it or read the book but I was not a huge fan of the moral delima in the plot. It pushes you on your beliefs with dating and relationships. I did love the comedy and how developed the characters were. At the end of the movie, I did have that "Boy this was fun" feeling but still felt this little ping for some of the things that happened along the way.
Is it a date movie? Yes! Rusty and I loved going together and then discussing afterwards. We loved the laughter throughout the movie.
How many stars? 3.5 stars out of 5! Also know that I will not ever give 5 stars unless I am completely wowed!
Here is a synopsis:
As she waits to enter her 30th birthday party, Rachel White (Ginnifer goodwin) can’t escape the feeling that her life has not turned out like she thought it would. Sure, she has a good job at a prestigious Manhattan law firm, but she works long hours and her boss is a tyrant.
She has her childhood best friend, the beautiful and vivacious Darcy (Kate Hudson), but seeing her flirt with her handsome fiancé is just another reminder that at the end of the party―like every other night―she’ll be going home alone. Except this time…she doesn’t. Rachel wakes up the following morning next to Dex (Colin Egglesfield), her law school study partner…and Darcy’s fiancé. Both of them are horrified―how could they let this happen?
Rachel tries to move on with the support of school friend ETHAN (John Krasinski), but as the wedding approaches she begins to realize that it wasn’t a mistake after all, and maybe Darcy isn’t the friend she thought she was.
Now Rachel has to make a painful choice: her best friend or the love of her life?
Dun Dun Dun...I know, dramatic. If you have seen the movie, let me know what you think by commenting below!
Happy Monday Lovebirds!
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Happy Wedding Day Sarah and Brady!
Today is the day! In just a few hours Sarah and Brady will be married! How exciting! I couldn't be more thrilled to be apart of this special day and can't wait to show you Lovebirds video of their day.
Happy Wedding Day Lovebirds!
Happy Wedding Day Lovebirds!
Photo Source: Danielle Davis Art/Photography
Friday, May 13, 2011
Love Song Friday, Volume 8
Happy Love Song Friday! Today will be filled with bridal luncheons, rehearsal dinners and lots of filming! I am so excited to be spending the weekend in Fayetteville and at Pratt Place Barn and Inn.
Today's song is "I Do" by Colbie Caillat.
My favorite lyric:
I promise I won't turn around and I won't let you down
You can trust I've never felt it like I feel it now
Baby there's nothing, there's nothing we can't get through
Today's song is "I Do" by Colbie Caillat.
My favorite lyric:
I promise I won't turn around and I won't let you down
You can trust I've never felt it like I feel it now
Baby there's nothing, there's nothing we can't get through
Thursday, May 12, 2011
For the Wedding Obsessed
I have some extremely exciting news! I am now a new member of the TWIPS community! Doing my HAPPY dance!!
For those who do not know what the TWIPS community is let me tell you. We are people who are obsessed with all things weddings! Who me? Obsessed? YES! I am so excited to have others sharing their ideas and also getting to share mine! Since becoming a TWIP yesterday, I have gotten an abundance of support on Twitter! Thank you to you all!
So grateful for this opportunity and new found inspiration!
For those who do not know what the TWIPS community is let me tell you. We are people who are obsessed with all things weddings! Who me? Obsessed? YES! I am so excited to have others sharing their ideas and also getting to share mine! Since becoming a TWIP yesterday, I have gotten an abundance of support on Twitter! Thank you to you all!
So grateful for this opportunity and new found inspiration!
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Gift Favor Idea: Southern Strawberry Jam
No matter what your wedding theme is you always need to give a favor that is tailored to you. At our wedding, we gave heart shaped cookie cutters with a sugar cookie recipe. I love to bake and thought it was the perfect touch to send our guests home with. Not all people give favors but it is always nice to thank your guests for coming to your big day.
I love the idea of sending your guests home with a gift they can put to use. Southern in style, strawberry jam is a classic gift and looks great in a mason jar. These jars full of jam would also make great decor in the center of your tables. While canning can be expensive, you can always try less expensive jam holders considering your guests will more than likely put their goodies to use right away. Jars help to keep the jam fresher longer. These gifts would also be great for shower hostess gifts.
This recipe is Ina Garten's of Barefoot Contessa and the Food Network. When you use her recipe you can be sure it has a pound of sugar and/or butter. It is a real doozy if it has both! Her recipes are always simple and extremely tasty!
Ingredients:
3 pints fresh strawberries
3 cups superfine sugar
2 tablespoons orange-flavored liqueur (recommended: Grand Marnier)
1/2 Granny Smith apple, peeled, cored and small-diced
1/2 cup fresh blueberries
Directions:
1. Place the strawberries in a colander and rinse them under cold running water. Drain and hull the strawberries. Cut the larger berries in half or quarters and leave the small berries whole. Place the strawberries in a deep, heavy-bottomed pot such as heavy Dutch oven and toss them with the sugar and orange-flavored liqueur.
2. Bring the berry mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring often. Add the apple and blueberries and continue to keep the mixture at a rolling boil, stirring occasionally, until the jam reaches 220 degrees on a candy thermometer. This should take 25 to 35 minutes. Skim and discard any foam that rises to the top. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature and then store covered in the refrigerator. It will keep refrigerated for at least 2 weeks. To keep the jam longer, pack and seal in canning jars according to the manufacturer's instructions.
To learn how to prepare your cans, you can check out the Pioneer Woman's tutorial.
I love the idea of sending your guests home with a gift they can put to use. Southern in style, strawberry jam is a classic gift and looks great in a mason jar. These jars full of jam would also make great decor in the center of your tables. While canning can be expensive, you can always try less expensive jam holders considering your guests will more than likely put their goodies to use right away. Jars help to keep the jam fresher longer. These gifts would also be great for shower hostess gifts.
Photo Source: The Pioneer Woman
This recipe is Ina Garten's of Barefoot Contessa and the Food Network. When you use her recipe you can be sure it has a pound of sugar and/or butter. It is a real doozy if it has both! Her recipes are always simple and extremely tasty!
Ingredients:
3 pints fresh strawberries
3 cups superfine sugar
2 tablespoons orange-flavored liqueur (recommended: Grand Marnier)
1/2 Granny Smith apple, peeled, cored and small-diced
1/2 cup fresh blueberries
Directions:
1. Place the strawberries in a colander and rinse them under cold running water. Drain and hull the strawberries. Cut the larger berries in half or quarters and leave the small berries whole. Place the strawberries in a deep, heavy-bottomed pot such as heavy Dutch oven and toss them with the sugar and orange-flavored liqueur.
2. Bring the berry mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring often. Add the apple and blueberries and continue to keep the mixture at a rolling boil, stirring occasionally, until the jam reaches 220 degrees on a candy thermometer. This should take 25 to 35 minutes. Skim and discard any foam that rises to the top. Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature and then store covered in the refrigerator. It will keep refrigerated for at least 2 weeks. To keep the jam longer, pack and seal in canning jars according to the manufacturer's instructions.
To learn how to prepare your cans, you can check out the Pioneer Woman's tutorial.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Registry Ideas: Skip the China and bring on the House!
Skip the linens, the china and the gift cards. I saw this neat and extremely different idea, a registry for a house. Yes, a house. It is called Hatch My House and their tagline reads "A cash gift registry to save toward a home." What a brilliant idea.
Many couples either live together already or have the main essentials. If you do not need embroidered towels or a waffle maker, this is a great solution. It is also easy to do. All you do is sign up, design your dream home and start saving money for your down payment. You also need to have a verified PayPal account. Your money from your registry is deposited there.
Hatch My House can be used for more than just wedding's too. Try it out for birthdays, fundraisers, baby showers, graduations and many other events and celebrations. To get started, just follow these 5 easy steps.
Sign Up for an online gift or cash wedding registry. Choose a username and password and verify your email. Once your email is verified, you can log-in to my account and edit your event or wedding registry details, which includes writing a personal welcome message to your guests!
Step 1: Choose a setting
At this time, we have two house styles. We hope to add another style soon, and more after that, but need your opinion before we do. Please vote to help us decide what style house to add next!
In order to receive cash gifts towards your gift or cash wedding registry, you must sign up for a free PayPal Premier account or link to your existing account. Visit PayPal to learn more about their Premier service and sign up. By signing up for a free PayPal Premier account, you enable us to create a 'donate' button that is linked directly to your house page. This enables your family members and friends to donate directly to you. PayPal will accept the payment on your behalf. When you wish, you can request that the cash gifts in your PayPal account be deposited directly into your bank account.
Please note that you must 'verify' your PayPal Premier account by linking your bank account to your PayPal account. When you decide what bank account to link to your PayPal account, you may want to consider signing up for an interest-bearing savings account with your preferred financial institution. This way, when friends and family give to your down payment registry, you can collect interest on the funds.
Once you link your PayPal Premier account, we recommend you call PayPal to verify that your account is set-up correctly. You can call or 1-888-221-1161.
Publish your gift or cash wedding registry in Step 4 for FREE by using the coupon code provided on your dashboard. Once you complete Step 4, your personalized house page URL link will appear in your dashboard and you can start saving towards your home!
By publishing your registry, you get all the benefits that come with it, including: personalized house design, a personalized URL, welcome message entry, gift tracking, goal tracking, house interior, house exterior, thank you e-cards to send your guests and your house image to download.
Now that you've published your online gift or wedding registry, you will want to direct your friends and family to your Hatch My House page. We recommend forwarding your friends and family your house page URL link via your event invitation or wedding website. You can also send them links through Facebook, MySpace or Twitter. You can also download your house image and create a personalized card to include in your event invitation.
Once your link has been sent, your family members and friends will arrive at your Hatch My House page to make a gift. They'll buy a part of the house and their gift will be deposited into your PayPal account – and you start building your house fund immediately!
For more information on how to Hatch Your House, click here.
Happy Tuesday!
Many couples either live together already or have the main essentials. If you do not need embroidered towels or a waffle maker, this is a great solution. It is also easy to do. All you do is sign up, design your dream home and start saving money for your down payment. You also need to have a verified PayPal account. Your money from your registry is deposited there.
Hatch My House can be used for more than just wedding's too. Try it out for birthdays, fundraisers, baby showers, graduations and many other events and celebrations. To get started, just follow these 5 easy steps.
First, Sign Up
Sign Up for an online gift or cash wedding registry. Choose a username and password and verify your email. Once your email is verified, you can log-in to my account and edit your event or wedding registry details, which includes writing a personal welcome message to your guests!
Second, Design Your House
To begin building your gift or cash wedding registry, design your house by choosing the setting, style and color.Step 1: Choose a setting
Step 2: Select a house style
Step 3: Choose a house colorAt this time, we have two house styles. We hope to add another style soon, and more after that, but need your opinion before we do. Please vote to help us decide what style house to add next!
Third, Link Your PayPal Account
In order to receive cash gifts towards your gift or cash wedding registry, you must sign up for a free PayPal Premier account or link to your existing account. Visit PayPal to learn more about their Premier service and sign up. By signing up for a free PayPal Premier account, you enable us to create a 'donate' button that is linked directly to your house page. This enables your family members and friends to donate directly to you. PayPal will accept the payment on your behalf. When you wish, you can request that the cash gifts in your PayPal account be deposited directly into your bank account.
Please note that you must 'verify' your PayPal Premier account by linking your bank account to your PayPal account. When you decide what bank account to link to your PayPal account, you may want to consider signing up for an interest-bearing savings account with your preferred financial institution. This way, when friends and family give to your down payment registry, you can collect interest on the funds.
Once you link your PayPal Premier account, we recommend you call PayPal to verify that your account is set-up correctly. You can call or 1-888-221-1161.
Fourth, Publish Your Registry
Publish your gift or cash wedding registry in Step 4 for FREE by using the coupon code provided on your dashboard. Once you complete Step 4, your personalized house page URL link will appear in your dashboard and you can start saving towards your home!
By publishing your registry, you get all the benefits that come with it, including: personalized house design, a personalized URL, welcome message entry, gift tracking, goal tracking, house interior, house exterior, thank you e-cards to send your guests and your house image to download.
Fifth, Build Your House Fund
Now that you've published your online gift or wedding registry, you will want to direct your friends and family to your Hatch My House page. We recommend forwarding your friends and family your house page URL link via your event invitation or wedding website. You can also send them links through Facebook, MySpace or Twitter. You can also download your house image and create a personalized card to include in your event invitation.
Once your link has been sent, your family members and friends will arrive at your Hatch My House page to make a gift. They'll buy a part of the house and their gift will be deposited into your PayPal account – and you start building your house fund immediately!
For more information on how to Hatch Your House, click here.
Happy Tuesday!
Monday, May 9, 2011
Lessons of a Wedding Videographer – The Stuff They Don’t Teach You in School
Saturday marked opening season for Lovebird Productions. It was my first wedding! Hooray! Saturday morning I tripled checked my equipment and set off for Cherokee Village. As I was driving, the skies opened up and just in case Arkansas has not gotten enough rain God thought we needed a bit more. I kept praying for better weather for the wedding.
I arrived in Cherokee Village and headed to the house the ceremony was suppose to be at. The house was gorgeous. The back of the house had a large deck that was covered and looked out over the River. It was a stunning view even in the downpour. After meeting the lovely couple that owned the house I realized I was at the wrong house. (Side Note: They bought it a few years ago after the original owners passed away. The original owners were the groom’s grandparents. One of the family members asked the current owners if they could have the wedding on the back deck and the current owners happily agreed! How great!)
Lesson #1: Make sure you show up at the right location. I was suppose to meet at a different house. I was given 4 different addresses and showed up at the wrong one. No worries, I was early and still had a few spare moments. I hopped in the car and traveled a few miles away to the house where everyone was staying.
When I met the family, they were so kind. I couldn’t image a better family to be doing my first wedding with. I did have to try to get them to loosen up around the camera though.
Lesson #2: You will do SO much more than just film. I carried around the bride's train, helped with makeup decisions, kept everyone positive about the weather, drove all around Cherokee Village, Hardy and Highland plus much more. I loved helping though! I assume not every wedding will not be this way but I really got to know the bride and family this way. Did I mention how kind they were?
Lesson #3: Are you sure those are the shoes you want to wear? I did get a lot of compliments on my cute sandals but overall they may not have been the best support for my feet. I had to look cute though! Maybe I will go find a new pair to wear with added support for the wedding this weekend!
Lesson #4: Think one step ahead. With each wedding I want to capture the entire ceremony with little to no editing. For example, I set my camera up off to the side to get an overall view of the ceremony but I didn’t account for when everyone stands up. I quickly improvised with the camera on my shoulder and captured the ceremony until the guests were seated. Once they were seated my camera on the tripod picked up on the remaining part of the ceremony.
Lesson #5: Don’t be nervous! Have fun! The drive over was so nerve wracking. I was worrying about nothing but isn’t that life.
The day went wonderful. When I got home I went to sleep right away. That is my goal, to work until I crash! It was such a beautiful day. The rain disappeared; the sun came out and everyone celebrated Andy and Yuxuan. The lovely couple is off to Hawaii but didn’t ask me to go? I wonder why?
I arrived in Cherokee Village and headed to the house the ceremony was suppose to be at. The house was gorgeous. The back of the house had a large deck that was covered and looked out over the River. It was a stunning view even in the downpour. After meeting the lovely couple that owned the house I realized I was at the wrong house. (Side Note: They bought it a few years ago after the original owners passed away. The original owners were the groom’s grandparents. One of the family members asked the current owners if they could have the wedding on the back deck and the current owners happily agreed! How great!)
Lesson #1: Make sure you show up at the right location. I was suppose to meet at a different house. I was given 4 different addresses and showed up at the wrong one. No worries, I was early and still had a few spare moments. I hopped in the car and traveled a few miles away to the house where everyone was staying.
When I met the family, they were so kind. I couldn’t image a better family to be doing my first wedding with. I did have to try to get them to loosen up around the camera though.
Lesson #2: You will do SO much more than just film. I carried around the bride's train, helped with makeup decisions, kept everyone positive about the weather, drove all around Cherokee Village, Hardy and Highland plus much more. I loved helping though! I assume not every wedding will not be this way but I really got to know the bride and family this way. Did I mention how kind they were?
Lesson #3: Are you sure those are the shoes you want to wear? I did get a lot of compliments on my cute sandals but overall they may not have been the best support for my feet. I had to look cute though! Maybe I will go find a new pair to wear with added support for the wedding this weekend!
Lesson #4: Think one step ahead. With each wedding I want to capture the entire ceremony with little to no editing. For example, I set my camera up off to the side to get an overall view of the ceremony but I didn’t account for when everyone stands up. I quickly improvised with the camera on my shoulder and captured the ceremony until the guests were seated. Once they were seated my camera on the tripod picked up on the remaining part of the ceremony.
Lesson #5: Don’t be nervous! Have fun! The drive over was so nerve wracking. I was worrying about nothing but isn’t that life.
The day went wonderful. When I got home I went to sleep right away. That is my goal, to work until I crash! It was such a beautiful day. The rain disappeared; the sun came out and everyone celebrated Andy and Yuxuan. The lovely couple is off to Hawaii but didn’t ask me to go? I wonder why?
Friday, May 6, 2011
Love Song Friday, Volume 7
Happy Love Song Friday! Tomorrow is a big day for Lovebird Productions...my FIRST wedding! I am so excited to get on the road and be apart of this exciting day! I will give you an update on how everything goes!
Today, I need a good pump me up song for Love Song Friday. How about "Oh, It Is Love" by HelloGoodbye? That will do!
I pray you all have a great weekend!
Today, I need a good pump me up song for Love Song Friday. How about "Oh, It Is Love" by HelloGoodbye? That will do!
I pray you all have a great weekend!
For my Mom
Dear Mom,
You are the best woman I know. You are my friend, mentor and shopping buddy. I am grateful for the life lessons you have taught and the example that you lead every day. I watch you work so hard between completing your PhD (yeah, she is that awesome), to taking care of the entire family, to working extreme hours to help pay for my dream wedding. You are the woman I pray to become and the mother I hope to be. You always have wonderful advice and words of wisdom.
Thank you for your encouragement and the faith you have in me. Thank you for believing in my dreams and making me feel special. You are the best mom.
You are the glue in this family. I pray that one day I am half the woman you are. I pray I can love unconditionally and provide as well as you have for me. You are the ideal mother and I love that I look just like you. I am so grateful for you and am blessed to call you Mom! I love you mommy and Happy Mother's Day!
You are the best woman I know. You are my friend, mentor and shopping buddy. I am grateful for the life lessons you have taught and the example that you lead every day. I watch you work so hard between completing your PhD (yeah, she is that awesome), to taking care of the entire family, to working extreme hours to help pay for my dream wedding. You are the woman I pray to become and the mother I hope to be. You always have wonderful advice and words of wisdom.
Thank you for your encouragement and the faith you have in me. Thank you for believing in my dreams and making me feel special. You are the best mom.
You are the glue in this family. I pray that one day I am half the woman you are. I pray I can love unconditionally and provide as well as you have for me. You are the ideal mother and I love that I look just like you. I am so grateful for you and am blessed to call you Mom! I love you mommy and Happy Mother's Day!
Thursday, May 5, 2011
All About Your Girls
Our girlfriends are so important. When it comes to wedding planning, your girlfriends are by your side, helping you make important decisions, listening to you vent when everything seems like too much, planning your showers and more than likely paying for a dress they will never wear again. They are such a necessity in helping you keep your sanity and making sure you always are the belle of the ball. They deserve jewels and rubies but since those aren't always in the budget, here is a great gift that is simple and inexpensive to make:
Body Scrub
Tools and Materials
2 cups Epsom salts or organic cane sugar
1 cup carrier oil
8 drops essential oil(s)
1 drop food coloring
Special equipment: plastic pipette, canning jars
Directions
1. Stir together Epsom salts or sugar and carrier oil in a bowl, mixing well.
2. Using pipette, add essential oil, 1 drop at a time. Add food coloring, and stir until color is even throughout. Spoon into canning jars.
3. Download clip-art labels, enlarging or reducing to fit top of canning jar if necessary. Print onto ink-jet bumper-sticker paper (which is designed to withstand water). Cut out the labels, and affix to clean jars.
Martha Stewart inspired this great idea and you can even find templates here for printing cute labels.
If you have any great gift ideas email me: lovebirdproduction@gmail.com
Almost the weekend Lovebirds!
Tools and Materials
2 cups Epsom salts or organic cane sugar
1 cup carrier oil
8 drops essential oil(s)
1 drop food coloring
Special equipment: plastic pipette, canning jars
Directions
1. Stir together Epsom salts or sugar and carrier oil in a bowl, mixing well.
2. Using pipette, add essential oil, 1 drop at a time. Add food coloring, and stir until color is even throughout. Spoon into canning jars.
3. Download clip-art labels, enlarging or reducing to fit top of canning jar if necessary. Print onto ink-jet bumper-sticker paper (which is designed to withstand water). Cut out the labels, and affix to clean jars.
Martha Stewart inspired this great idea and you can even find templates here for printing cute labels.
If you have any great gift ideas email me: lovebirdproduction@gmail.com
Almost the weekend Lovebirds!
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Thanks Y'all!
I just wanted to say how grateful I am for your support! I love seeing the page views, Facebook "Likes" and Twitter followers grow. You can also follow my blog with bloglovin. You guys have been so wonderful!
Keep passing along the word of Lovebird Productions. I have two weddings this month and should have videos for you to view soon! I am so blessed by your kind words.
Go ahead and follow this blog too! Just over there---->
Thank you again Lovebirds!
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Wedding Keepsakes
I can remember returning from our honeymoon and unloading all of the wedding things out of the car. We had so many things from the wedding I didn't know where to begin organizing. We had extra programs, napkins, bows and little knick knacks. As I begin to organize, I realized that I needed to keep one of everything. Yes, I threw things away. It was hard but I didn't need 65 programs from our wedding. I came across a few good ideas to help me display our wedding keepsakes and get things organized.
One of my favorite blogs, Young House Love (disclaimer: once you start reading, you will be hooked!), had a brilliant idea of using a shadow box.
I love how they used their napkin, photo strips from their photo booth, their invitation, a photo of their gorgeous backyard reception and a few other favorites from their big day. Just think of the cute things you could place in your shadow box! You could even press a pretty flower from your bouquet or include your marriage license.
From our honeymoon, I brought home a few shells, our place tickets, a handful of photos and our hotel room key. While I used some of the shells to decorate around our house, I wanted to keep the honeymoon momentos together. Here is another fabulous idea from Young House Love:
I love how each time you pass your shadow box or jar of keepsakes you can smile and remember that time in your life. It also allows you to downsize any extras that you may have and keep just what you need. For more on these great ideas visit here and here.
I hope you are all having a fabulous day Lovebirds!
One of my favorite blogs, Young House Love (disclaimer: once you start reading, you will be hooked!), had a brilliant idea of using a shadow box.
Photo Source: Young House Love
I love how they used their napkin, photo strips from their photo booth, their invitation, a photo of their gorgeous backyard reception and a few other favorites from their big day. Just think of the cute things you could place in your shadow box! You could even press a pretty flower from your bouquet or include your marriage license.
From our honeymoon, I brought home a few shells, our place tickets, a handful of photos and our hotel room key. While I used some of the shells to decorate around our house, I wanted to keep the honeymoon momentos together. Here is another fabulous idea from Young House Love:
Photo Source: Young House Love
I love how each time you pass your shadow box or jar of keepsakes you can smile and remember that time in your life. It also allows you to downsize any extras that you may have and keep just what you need. For more on these great ideas visit here and here.
I hope you are all having a fabulous day Lovebirds!
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