Recipe: Blueberry Yogurt Mutligrain Pancakes

Doesn't the title just sound yummy? I know this is a wedding blog but like I have explained before some brides-to-be may use these recipes for their dessert table at the reception. You may cook them to celebrate your first morning in your new home as husband and wife or (how I would do it) cook them in an attempt to get more money for your shopping trips! For whatever reason, check out this hearty recipe by Smitten Kitchen. This blueberry yogurt multigrain pancake recipe is delicious and simple.

Photo Source: Here

Here is what you need to make 12 to 14 4-inch pancakes:

2 large eggs
1 cup plain, full-fat yogurt
2 to 4 tablespoons milk
3 tablespoons butter, plus extra for buttering skillet
1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup (62 grams) whole wheat flour
1/2 cup (68 grams) all-purpose flour
1/4 cup (32 grams) barley or rye flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon table salt
1 cup blueberries, rinsed and dried

Directions:

Melt half of butter. Remove from heat and stir in second tablespoon of butter until melted. This keeps your butter from being too hot when you next want to add it to the wet ingredients.

Whisk egg and yogurt together in the bottom of a medium/large bowl. If you’re using a thin yogurt, no need to add any milk. If you’re using regular yogurt, stir in 2 tablespoons milk. If you’re using a thick/strained or Greek-style yogurt, add 3 to 4 tablespoons milk. Whisk in melted butter, zest and vanilla extract. In a separate, small bowl, combine flours, sugar, baking powder and salt. Stir dry ingredients into wet only until dry ingredients are moistened. A few remaining lumps is fine.

Preheat your oven to 200°F and have a baking sheet ready (to keep pancakes warm). Heat your skillet or saute pan to medium. If you’ve got a cast-iron skillet, this is my favorite for pancakes. Melt a pat of butter in the bottom and ladle a scant 1/4 cup (about 3 tablespoons) batter at a time, leaving at space between each pancake. Press a few berries into the top of each pancake. The batter is on the thick side, so you will want to use your spoon or spatula to gently nudge it flat, or you may find that pressing down on the berries does enough to spread the batter. When the pancakes are dry around the edges and you can see bubbles forming on the top, about 3 to 4 minutes, flip them and cook for another 3 minutes, until golden underneath. (If you listen closely, after a minute you’ll hear you blueberries pop and sizzle deliciously against the pan.) If pancakes begin cooking too quickly, lower the heat. Transfer pancakes to warm oven as they are done cooking, where you can leave them there until you’re ready to serve them.

Are you already making out your grocery list? For more on this recipe, click here.

Hair Tutorial for the Modern Bride

Each bride is different when it comes to their hair style. Some brides prefer to have their hair done while others chose to do it themselves. Lately I have been living at The Beauty Department's website and came across this hair inspiration. Not only do they have the latest on hair but you can also find tips on make up, tutorials and beauty inspiration! Warning: Once you visit this site you will be obsessed with it. Hey, can't say I didn't warn you! I love this tutorial and step by step instructions. Pictures always help!

Here is what you need:
1. 2 clear elastics
2. 5-10 large bobby pins
3. Tail comb or teasing comb
4. Firm holding hairspray
5. A hand mirror

TBD also included this tip: I always advise looking in a second mirror between each step to check your balance. You don’t want to get too far and then have to start over. For more on this tutorial, click here. Enjoy Lovebirds!

Just Married: Chelsea & Andy

Moving Texas is exciting because now their are even more vendors, locations and boutique's to explore. San Antonio is such a beautiful city! From the historic downtown to the country hills, I love all things San Antonio. Even the surrounding cities has so much flare and charm! This college station wedding is full of color and fun.

Chelsea and Andy's wedding is a combination of southern charm with a few pop of modern touches. Jackson Wright Photography captured all these beautiful images to share! The fabulous Country Sugar Events worked to coordinate and style the wedding. They are fabulous! Enjoy!

Photo Source: Jackson Wright Photography

Have I mentioned how much I love yellow and gray? Happy Wednesday!

Wedding Dress Wednesday

Another Wednesday has rolled around meaning only one thing...Wedding Dress Wednesday! Cue lights. Cue music. Let's go!

I know that last week I did a dress from David's Bridal and yes I want to switch things up but Vera has done it again. This week the new Vera Wang White Collection came out for David's Bridal stores and be still my beating heart if these dresses don't scream romance and affordability.

Vera states, "Every bride deserves to have great design. I believe the bride knows who she is and how she wants to look and feel on her special day. Every gown I create reflects that respect for other women and how much design means to me. It is exciting provide an array of romantic, classic and whimsical fashion for the entire bridal party."

I love this dress. It is all things chic, timeless and elegant. This dress includes a V Neck Satin Corset Gown with Grosgrain Sash.

Photo Source: Here

Thank goodness for Wedding Dress Wednesday to get you through your day! Be back later for a look at a fun Texas wedding!

Not so Matchy-Matchy Bridesmaids

With each bride comes a different style and taste for their wedding. Some brides like things to always match from the updo on the bridesmaids to the shoes on their feet. Recently I have started noticing a trend of non-matching bridesmaids. When it came to my bridesmaids, I was a unified thinker so it took me a bit to appreciate the cuteness and fun behind non-matching bridesmaids. I think the idea is brilliant and quirky!

Most brides are having bridesmaids with the same color dress in various styles and patterns like in the first photo. I just love this idea! What do you think?

Photo Source: Here

Photo Source: Here

 Photo Source: Here

I love the idea of letting your Maid and Matron of Honor wear something different. Big department stores always carry various styles of dresses. Like in the pictures above, you can even try the same dress but with different top variations. For example, one bridesmaid wears a one shoulder gown while the other sports a halter dress. These touches of style are guruanteed to be fashionable plus each bridesmaid feels unique! Have any of you ever used this in your wedding?

You can always leave your suggestions or ideas by commenting below or email me @ lovebirdproduction@gmail.com!

The Time Has Come...

Happy Monday Lovebirds! For months I have been saying that along with blogging I am a wedding videographer and I finally have some work to show you. This is my first video. Yes, the first one. I have probably watched it 75 times. I am a perfectionist and for a one man team (just me) I am pretty proud of it. It was such a joy to be around Brady and Sarah. Yeah, they seem to be my main couple on the blog but have you seen them? They are such a gorgeous couple. Their engagement pictures and "honey do" shower (here and here) have been featured and now their wedding.

The video today features their big day and the ceremony. I have such good footage of the reception and rehearsal but those will come at other times! So without further ado...let's watch Sarah and Brady!!


Brady and Sarah - Wedding Ceremony Highlights - Fayetteville, AR from Lovebird Productions on Vimeo.

Leave your feedback and comments below or email me @ lovebirdproduction@gmail.com. I would really appreciate it!

Love Song Friday, Volume 12

Hello Lovebirds! I just want to start by saying I am so thankful for all the support. You guys know how to make a girl blush! I appreciate the comments, emails and all around good cheer. I love blogging and I am glad that you take the time to read my thoughts!

Now onto Love Song Friday. Can you believe it is Friday? Or that we are already on Volume 12? I know, crazy! I decided to go with something that you can dance too! I love Michael Franti and Spearheads "Say Hey (I Love You)." It is so fun! Ready to shake your groove thing?

Remember I am always open to idea, advice and suggestions. You can contact me via Facebook, Twitter or email me: lovebirdproduction@gmail.com. I hope that everyone has a great Friday and weekend!

The Best Part: Being a Maid of Honor: Part 5

Well we have reached Friday. Are you dancing in your seat? This week we have covered standard protocol, discussed finances, planned a shower, partied at the bachelorette party and today we are talking about you. Yes you! For months now, you have been giving your all to planning your best friends wedding. You have talked her off the edge, tasted too many cakes, obsessed over flowers, listened to her vent, been to every fitting, researched the perfect honeymoon, planned a stunning wedding shower, partied in Vegas (I am sure that part was easy) and just rocked the ceremony and reception. Now what is a girl to do?

That's simple. Have F-U-N! This is your time. You deserve it! Let me help you out with ideas to celebrate rocking your job as maid of honor:

1. Get rid of your bridesmaid dress. I know...shocking. You paid $90+ for this dress and you want me to get rid of it? You really think you are going to wear it again? Try giving it to your niece or cousin to play dress up in. You can also give it to charity or donate it to a Goodwill/Salvation Army. You can also check out these websites for more ideas: princessproject.org and glassslipperproject.org. Unless you are going to wear the dress again, toss it which brings me to point #2.

2. Treat yourself to a new outfit! That is if you haven't broken the bank with the wedding. Hopefully you didn't have to spend all the money that you budgeted for the wedding. Take a day to go shopping at your favorite stores. Have fun treating yourself! Plan a special occasion to wear your new outfit too! Whether it is dancing with your girlfriends or finally having time to try that first date with Mr. Handsome.

3. Plan a mini vacation or a BIG vacation! Who says that the bride is the only one who deserves a fun trip? Plan a weekend trip to the lake, a romantic getaway to the mountains, a fun day trip to an amusement park or a week long vacation at the beach. Toes in the sand, fruity drink in hand while catching a sun kissed glow. Umm..yes please!

4. Spa day! Treat yourself to a day at the spa. Get a massage plus a nice facial. If a spa day is not in the budget, make time at home to paint your toenails, do a deep scalp treatment while drinking a glass of wine and watching chick flicks.

5. Take time for Y-O-U. I am serious. For women, I feel this is the hardest thing for us to do. The whole reason for this post is that you make time for yourself. You have worked hard and deserve to spoil yourself a bit. Whether you indulge yourself for a day or a week, just agree to do it.

I hope that these past few days have been enjoyable and somewhat educational. Being a maid of honor or bridesmaid is a big responsibility but with good direction, a realistic budget and a positive attitude you can rock the job!

Please feel free to email me @ lovebirdproduction@gmail.com or comment below! I love hearing from you! Check back this afternoon for Love Song Friday!

Party Time: Being a Maid of Honor: Part 4

Part 4...yeah I could go on and on about being in the bridal party. I know that some people may know everything their is to know about being a bridesmaid but I have been a bridesmaid six times and I still feel like I learn new things.

Today's topic is F-U-N! Drum roll....Bachelorette Party Time!

Planning the bachelorette party is something that I loved doing for Summer. I also had the help of all the other bridesmaids and close friends! Between that many girls you are destined to have a GREAT time! My bachelorette party (pictured above) took place in Nashville. We danced, hung out poolside, had fabulous fruity drinks, giggled and relaxed. You too can plan an awesome bachelorette party with these helpful tips!

1. Consult the bride. Asking the bride what her expectations are is very important. For my party I wanted to get all the girls together in one location because we were all scattered around. I also wanted to do something small with just my closest friends and have my lingerie party then as well. It is important to know exactly what the bride wants. Does she want to visit a big city? Does she want to keep it low key and just do dinner with her closest friends? Is she expecting a weekend getaway or a one night shebang?

2. Who Plans and Who Pays? The role of planning the bachelorette party relies on the entire bridal party but the maid of honor normally takes the lead. When it comes to who pays, the bridal party is responsible plus the consider all the women who attend. With my party, all the girls split the costs of the rooms once a final RSVP count was done. Also consider paying the brides way. The party is about her and even though you have bought numerous gifts and hosted showers you should still cover costs for the bride.

3. Who is Invited? The bridal party is always included. This ranges from the bridesmaids to the ones who hand out programs. You should also include any family members i.e. the grooms or brides sisters. When it comes to close friends who are not in the wedding party consult with the bride.You want to make sure you have a good mix of friends!

4. Invitations. Invitations for a bachelorette party are not a necessity. I would suggest invitations though if you are going away for a weekend or are having the lingerie party during the bachelorette party. You can always send invitations through the mail, via email or social networking. Regardless of how you send them, remember to include the date, time, location, the brides sizes (if having lingerie shower) and dress attire. For example, if you are starting your day at the spa and then having a fancy dinner tell guests to dress very casual for the day and bring a change of formal attire for dinner. Also, if you need a head count include an RSVP cutoff date.

5. When do we have the party? This is up to you! Most bachelorette parties are held one to three weeks before the wedding. If you are going out of town, the schedule is up to you and the bride. If the guests of the party all live far away, you could have the festivities mid week before the wedding weekend begins. Try to have the party the same time as the bachelor party so the bride is not sitting around wondering what the boys are doing! Also, remember not to have the party before a big event like bridal portraits or the actual wedding.

Here are some fun themes and party ideas:
1. Colorful wigs - I LOVE this idea. How fun is it to not worry about your hair and have a different identity for the night? LOVE!

2. All black for the girls and colorful for the bride - As you can see from the picture above that is what we did for my bachelorette party and I thought the idea was genius! All the girls wore black while I got to add a pop of color! Their cute crowns matched me perfectly which was surprisingly unplanned!

3. Go Boating - Rent a boat and head out on the water! Pack dinner for everyone or even get someone to cater. Relax on the water, go for a swim plus catch some rays!

4. Go to the Races. I love the idea of getting dolled up with fun jewels and big floppy hats while sipping martini's at the horse races.

If staying Home...
1. Spa night - Everyone can come over dressed in their pj's while you ladies drink wine, get a facial plus sit around and giggle together. You can even have an old fashioned sleepover. When is the last time you did that?

2. Backyard Cookout - Invite the girls over for a nice family dinner. Divide up who brings what side dishes and desserts while you grill out in the backyard. This is fun and so memorable!

3. Boys Night - Say what? I mean do boy things like sit at home, play poker and drink scotch. Maybe even chest bump?

No matter what type of bachelorette party you plan for the bride you are guruanteed to have a blast!

If you have any suggestions or advice on the perfect girl party, email me @ lovebirdproduction@gmail.com or comment below!

Wedding Dress Wednesday

I know that this isn't with my theme for the week but I love looking at wedding dresses. I can't get enough of them! With that in mind I am going to start another trend on the blog, Wedding Dress Wednesday. I know...exciting! Each Wednesday I am going to start by focusing on one dress that I am loving for the day.

I can remember everything about the royal wedding. Every little detail. It will be ingrained in my mind forever! And who can forget Kate's dress? It was iconic. David's Bridal just came out with their new Fall line and look what I spotted.

 

Photo Source: Here

I couldn't believe it! How neat to have a timeless dress like this one. David's Bridal is offering this dress marked down to $850. What a beauty? You can find more on the dress by clicking here.

Let me know what you think about Wedding Dress Wednesday!

Wedding Shower Hosting 101: Being a Maid of Honor: Part 3

Well this week is flying by! Like I have mentioned any and all tips that I have shared this week can be used for bridesmaids and Maid/Matron's of Honor. I think when you are asked to be apart of the bridal party you should do your best but sometimes we just don't know what to do. Don't stress! These tips and reminders are to help you. So far we have covered finances involved with being in a wedding here and a checklist of tips for playing the part here.

Today I wanted to discuss throwing the best wedding shower ever. When being the maid of honor, your responsibility is to host the wedding shower. You can always have close friends of the bride and the other bridesmaids help with hosting but you are in charge. Grab your clipboard, make a game plan, hand out responsibilities and get your wedding shower face on. It's time to plan!

The wedding shower should leave the bride with fabulous gifts and a lots of fun memories. With these type of expectations, where do you begin? First, try to decide what type of event the bride would enjoy most. What type of bridal shower fits her personality plus the needs of the bride (as in the gifts she needs)? For example, if the bride is really into cooking, hosting a pounding or a kitchen themed shower is where to start. It doesn't have to be the same ol' boring shower. You can make any theme fun and creative!

Second, location, location, location. Their is nothing wrong with hosting the shower at your house or a friends home but make sure that the potential number of guests will be accommodated for. You want guests to have plenty of space to park and move around in your home. If you have pets, even though they will not be making an appearance at the shower, make sure that the bride and guests are aware of pets. Some are highly allergic to pets even if fluffy is the cutest dog ever!

If you are wanting to host the shower somewhere else here are a few ideas. You can try a historic landmark building if you live near a neat one or even an old estate. Old estate homes are perfect and full of southern goodness. How about a boat? Yes it is extravagant and daring but I think it is such a fun idea! You can try an art gallery or the rooftop of a building in your downtown. Regardless of the venue you chose you need to make sure you follow a few rules of thumb.

1. Never book a place you haven't toured. You want to make sure the place is just right and the Internet may not be a good judge of character.

2. If you choose a restaurant, make sure you sample the food if you choose their catering. With some restaurants, if you do not choose their catering it can be more expensive to bring someone in to do the food.

3. Make sure you get privacy at your venue. Plus know exactly where your party will be in the venue. You do not want to have a shower right in the entrance of the restaurant and have onlookers watching the bride open gifts. Awkward!

4. Make sure if at a restaurant that you have your own wait staff. This is important no matter the size of the shower. Also, if their is a final bill, make sure they discuss it with you discretely.

Now that you have your theme and location, let's cover a few other things that are important!

1. Guest Lists - Before you pick the venue, already have an idea of how many guests are on the bride's list. Even though everyone will not attend make sure you can accommodate everyone. Also have an idea of possible guests because if it includes around 50 people, dinner at the brides favorite restaurant may be out of the budget.

2. Who pays? If you are hosting the shower, you pay. If 10 women decide to help host, split the costs 10 ways. This helps so much! Even though you are all contributing financially to the shower, you still needs to give a gift either individually or as a group. Have the hosts keep their receipts and crunch numbers once the guests have left the shower.

3. How long should the party last? You do not want to watch the bride open gifts for hours so set a scheduled time and include that on the shower invitation. Most showers are two to three hours long.

4. How do we decide on the theme of the shower? Theme is very important. To help decide the theme, coordinate with the type of shower the bride needs. When deciding the theme, remember to think of a few things. What type of wedding the bride is planning? If she is planning a fun and quirky wedding, the wedding shower theme should correspond. What is the personality of the bride? If she is really shy, embarrassing games are not appropriate for her shower. How did she meet the groom? You can always incorporate how they met with the location and theme.

5. Timeline of sending out the invitations - You should send invitations four weeks prior to the event. A written invitation by mail allows guests to see the theme plus RSVP. It is also is a great keepsake for the bride. Designate one person to handle RSVP's. Most invitations include a number or email address. Your invitation should also include the words "wedding shower" somewhere on it, the location, bride, time, date by which to RSVP and the host names are optional. Some people say it is bad etiquette to include where the bride is registered but it is up to the hosts.

6. Make sure you set things in stone.  Things that need to be finalized are location, theme, hosts, menu, gift from hosts or yourself, time, invitations, cake, guests lists plus RSVP's and decorations.

7. Have fun! Make sure to enjoy this time. With planning in advance and organization, their is no reason you shouldn't enjoy your time with the bride!

These tips are just a few for planning the perfect wedding shower! Feel free to include any other tips or advice for brides, bridesmaids and the maid of honor!

Ooo Finances! Being a Maid of Honor: Part 2

 Photo Source: Earl Photography

Being asked to be apart of your best friends wedding day is such a special thing but it can also cause stress when you think about how much it costs. Girls always kid that they need to take out a loan to be in a wedding. Yesterday we covered responsibilities here but today I wanted to look at expenses of a maid of honor or bridesmaid plus also point out ways to save money.

Things that you should pay for:

1. Your wedding day attire - On the day of the wedding you will be sporting a cute dress (that can later be cut off to wear shorter of course) that doesn't have to break your bank account. More than likely you will have matching shoes and accessories.
Ways to Save: Encourage your bride to shop at a big name bridal store. Stores like David's Bridal usually offer big sales. Most bridesmaids can get a percentage off of their dress by shopping during their seasonal sales. If your bride does not shop at a brand name store, try asking the bridal store associates if the wedding party can get a discount on your attire. I purchased my dress at a small store and they offered my bridal party 20% off of their dresses because I spent an allotted amount at their store. Every penny helps. If the bride asks your opinion, you can always suggest she give your jewelry or nail appointments as a wedding gift to the bridal party.

2. Wedding Showers and Bachelor Party - These can run a big cost. Bachelorette parties seem to become more and more extravagant. With the title of Maid of Honor, you will be hosting a shower and planning the bachelorette party.
Ways to Save: With any event, get more hostesses involved. The more people hosting the party = the lower the cost of expenses. Do not be afraid to ask others for decor. You can always get creative! When it comes to the bachelorette party, their are plenty of websites that offer cheaper hotels rates like Expedia and Priceline plus just like showers, the more who come and help the cheaper the costs. Plan in advance too! You can always score good discounts that way. Mention to the hotel you are a big group and they could even offer a discounted rate. Never hurts to ask.

3. Gifts - Oh goodness. You mean on top of spending my life savings to be in the wedding I need to give them numerous gifts. Proper etiquette is to give an engagement gift, shower gift and wedding present. If you are invited to multiple wedding showers, you only give a gift at the first shower. Typically you should double what you give each time you give. For example, if you spend $20 on the engagement gift, the shower gift should be $40 and the wedding $80. Yes, this is a lot. That is why you quit panicking and keep reading.
Ways to Save: When it comes to gift giving, do no be afraid to give with a group. If you want to have all the bridesmaid chip in and get a wedding gift for the day of the wedding, $80 all together is great! You can always make something. You could help by starting a scrapbook for the bride or creating a fun wedding keepsake box. You can also offer your services. If you are an extraordinary baker, offer to make fun cookies for the reception's dessert table.

4. Beauty: Hair, nails, makeup and more - Your bride may prefer that everyone wears their hair a certain way. Do not panic if you can't afford the cost of a $50 updo.
Ways to Save: Do your own hair. Practice in advance! You can cut costs by doing your own hair, make up and nails. Doing it yourself also saves time for you to help the bride!

5. Unexpected Costs - Watch your budget.  Unexpected things can creep into your budget like a bridesmaid forgetting the cheese tray for the shower or the bride not remembering her Crest white strips the night before the wedding.
Ways to Save: When planning for the wedding, set aside a little extra money just in case. Having the mind set that you may go over will ease the blow when you are $30 over budget. You can do this!

These tips are pretty simple but it always helps to be prepared financially for your best friends big day. You shouldn't have to worry about costs but instead enjoy your time with the bride!

Being a Maid/Matron of Honor: Part 1

I'm Back! That is right! Have no more Monday worries because I am now able to post all the time. It has never felt better to login to blogger and start typing. I have a large smile on my face and am dancing around the room. You are welcome for that mental image.

This week I wanted to focus my attention on one leading lady crucial for most weddings, the Maid of Honor. Most girls have been bridesmaids but being a maid of honor has some higher expectations. Yes, that is me with my dear friend Summer. Even thought I have been a bridesmaids numerous times, I have only been a maid of honor once. I wish I could say that I was a professional with my utmost title but I feel their are still lessons I am learning from my best friends wedding. When Summer asked me to be her maid of honor, she gave me a helpful handbook written by Kathy Passero. I have taken a lot of advice from this book and am hoping that the tips I share with you can help in your abilities to be your best in all weddings.

Some of these tips are pretty simple but always a good reminder plus they can also be applied to all bridesmaids too! Not every wedding has a maid of honor.

Prewedding Tips:

1. Attend all events - This includes the engagement party and showers. The bride will need you to be by her side helping her through each event. Most brides have three plus events which means you can help with picking out her outfit, assisting with advice on hostess gifts, providimg a record of who gave what gifts and even help with thank you notes.

2. Remain positive and upbeat - Lets face it. Planning a wedding is stressful. Help the bride with encouraging her! Each time she calls, remain positive and cheery. She needs it plus you are the one she chose to be a bridesmaid and/or maid of honor! Duty calls!

3. Take the lead in organizing a shower - Any maid of honor should expect to host a shower. You can recruit the other bridesmaids to help in expenses and planning.

4. Show up for your fittings plus pay for all your expenses - These expenses can include your dress, shows, accessories plus any other expenses like hotel accommodations for the wedding. Attending any fittings that the bride has scheduled for your dress is important. Make sure you are prompt and eager to help with her fittings and your own. By being active in the wedding planning process, your bride can feel your support and know that she is important to you.

5. Be ready to step in whenever needed - Yes, even if the bride has called 7 times already in the past hour. If she needs you to help address invitations or select wedding favors, get to it. She needs you. You are her sanity.

Wedding Whirlwind Tips:

1. Attend rehearsal and rehearsal dinner - For most, this is a given but make sure you are early as well. Never be the reason the bride is having to wait to start her rehearsal.

2. Make a toast at the rehearsal (Optional)

3. Run any last minute errands or perform any last minute tasks - For example, if the bride forgets to assemble the place cards for the reception let her know that you will take care of it. The night before weddings can be stressful but most brides have things completed. Occasionally you have a chaotic bride and end up creating the wedding program at 2 a.m. then going to a 24 hour Kinko's to make copies. True story. Right Laura?

4. Again stay positive - You have your bride dressed, are posing for pictures in uncomfortable heels, dealing with the crying bridesmaids but keep that smile on. The bride needs your upbeat spirit to shine through!

5. Keep the bride calm - On my wedding day, people kept coming in and out of the brides dressing room. I was a nervous wreck and the last thing I wanted were people coming in and out, in and out. My bridesmaids, without a word from me, put a stop to it. Do whatever the bride needs. It is surprising what bothers you or adds more stress the day of your wedding.

Ceremony:

1. Straighten the bride's train and veil - It drives me crazy when wedding parties do not do that. The bride can't see to do that. You do not have to make a big distraction but gently fix things.

2. Hold the bouquet during the ceremony - Make sure to return it for the recessional too!

3. Perform any tasks in preparation for the reception - If your bouquet is going to be used in a centerpiece, make sure to take all the bridesmaids bouquets, transport them to the reception and placed in the proper vases.

Reception:

1. Bustle the bride's train

2. Participate in wedding party dance if asked to - Shake your groove thing!

3. Try to stay sober and help with any situations that arise - Yes, more than likely someone is going to spill their drink or drop their glass on the dance floor. Be ready to help out and clean up!

4. At the bride's request, take her gown to the dry cleaners - This is such a big help!

5. Transport any gifts after the reception - A lot of people bring gifts to the wedding. Make sure you help get them to the bride's house or you can keep them until the bride gets back from her honeymoon.

I hope that some of the tips are helpful. Tomorrow I will cover the costs of being a bridesmaid. I promise to make it fun!

Happy Monday!

Umm...Where Are You?

I can hardly stand not being able to blog. It puts a funk on my mood. This little piece of web world has become a love of mine. Unfortunately with moving to our new residence in San Antonio we have no Internet. When we called to get it they said it would be Monday at the earliest before they could come by the house. Keep your fingers crossed and say a prayer that I will be back on Monday. I miss you guys!

And hope you miss me too...

Hobby Lobby Bridal Event This Week!

To ease your Monday woes, I have some shopping for you to do. For those who love Hobby Lobby which is 95% of the population they are having a Bridal Event. The weekly ad (you can sign up for free at the top of their website) is 50 % off floral stems including feathers, realisitc fruit, gems, beads, rhinestones, ribbon by the roll, flowering and greenery items.

Are you already in your car headed there? Happy Shopping!

DIY Stir Sticks

You know I love a good DIY project so when I saw these custom Stir Sticks on Style Me Pretty I had to share them with you. I love the idea of something fun for your guests at the reception plus these little beauties are easy to make. You can find the skewers at most retail grocery stores and the cardstock can be found at local craft stores, stores like Hobby Lobby/Michaels or you could reuse any leftover scraps that you have laying around the house.

Photo Source: Here

Here is what you need:

Color Printer
Paper Cutter or X-acto Knife with self healing mat
8.5 x 11″ 80lb white card stock (like this from Paper-Source)
8.5 x 11″ 80lb colored card stock (like this from Paper-Source)
Scissors or Wire cutters
Thin Bamboo Skewers
Gluestick
Permanent Double Sided Tape

Instructions:

1. Download the “I Do” Stirstick Flag Template. Print using the highest settings on your color printer to ensure that the text is crisp. There are 36 Flags per sheet.

2. Cut each flag along the dashed line, making sure to cut off all of the black ink so that the edge of each flag remains white. Make sure the strips are 1/2” x 1-1/2” in size.

3. Cut the colored cardstock into 1.75” x 3.5” strips using a paper cutter or an X-acto knife and set aside.

4. Using your scissors or wire cutters, cut the bamboo skewers into 6” length pieces. Note: I found it cleaner to score the skewers first by pinching the scissors or wire cutters around the skewers and then snapping them.

4. Glue the trimmed white card strips to the colored cardstock strips and fold the flags in half.

5. Secure the flag around the top of the bamboo skewer using double sided tape. Please note, there is only a small amount of room for the tape inside the flag, so make sure you make small enough pieces so the tape isn’t sticking out of the flag. Make sure the flag is snug against the skewer by pinching it with your fingers.

How simple is that? It is an added touch of fun to your big day!

Love Song Friday, Volume 11

Happy Love Song Friday! Wait...do you hear that? That is the weekend knocking at your door! Good ahead and answer. Everyone understands!

So if my "weekend at your door" reference didn't creep you out and you are still reading this then the love song for today is John Legend's "Stay With You." Their is no artist like John Legend. He is charming, melodic and extremely talented.

My favorite lyrics are:

And in the end I know that we'll find
Love so beautiful and divine
We'll be lovers for a lifetime, yeah
And I'll stay with you

Have a fun weekend! You deserve it.

How to Register and Keep Your Sanity

Earlier this week I showcased a few stunning summer gifts that are perfect for any occasions here. Today, I want to touch on the overall registering process. I can guarantee that when you register for your upcoming nuptials that you will get overwhelmed. You have multiple stores to choose from, different gift ideas floating through your head plus a small fear that no one will give you any gifts. Along with these emotions, I can also guarantee that you will survive and registering can be fun! Even fun with your love! Who would have thought?

In anticipation of registering, let me give you a bit of advice that will help make this daunting process seem relaxed and simple.

1. What do you really need? This is the most important part. Take 30 minutes to sit down with your significant other and decide what you are needing. For younger couples, you will need complete dish sets, an ironing board and a blender but for those couples who are getting married at a later age those things may not be necessary. You may be more interested in larger gifts like a new grill or new candlesticks for your dining room table display. Whatever your needs are establish them early on.

2. Make a list and check it twice. Just wanted to throw in a Santa reference but it never hurts. Do not freak out about making a list if you realize that you need a kagillion things (whew, that is a lot.) When I was getting married, I needed a lot of things. We had no matching dishes or silverware. To help calm my fears, I used various websites that provide a basic wedding registry list. You can print the list off and take it with you when going to the store. You can also mark off things that you do not need to make your list match your lifestyle. Here is one from Martha Stewart Weddings. Are you surprised I chose Martha? Didn't think so!

3. Pick Three Stores. I always suggest to brides to chose three stores that reflect the needs of the bride. My suggestion is to find a big national chain (You will be surprised at how many people send gifts online) and consider a local store. I have always been taught you need a low end store, a medium and a large to accomdate all budgets.

4. Get it all. When I registered, I immediately felt guilty. I looked at my numerous page registry and thought we need this stuff but it is too much to ask for. Get over it. First, it is the one time out of two (think baby) when you can create a registry for yourself and no one minds! You are the bride. You are fabulous and you need materials to start the next chapter with your beloved. Number two, people feel honored to shower you with gifts. I love giving gifts to brides and seeing the excitement on their face. And three, you will be surprised at how many things get marked off your registry. Make sure that you have enough items to cover all of your showers. Most registeries allow you to update and add new items.

5. Set aside time but you do not have to do it all in one day. Register as soon as you can. The proper time is around 4 to six months before your big day. Registering should not take all your efforts or distract you from the task at hand, getting married. Make sure you have plenty of time to register and are not being rushed to get to another appointment. Rusty and I spent a whole Saturday afternoon registering at Bed Bath and Beyond. We had fun walking around and really bonded. Realize that you are picking out things for your future together. How awesome!

6. Dress comfy and eat a good meal. Fuel up with a healthy meal, pack a little snack and dress appropiately. If you are registering at your high end store then dress accordingly but make sure you dress for comfort. You will be on your feet!

7.  Have fun! Registering is exciting! Like I said, these gifts represent your future as a couple. The white platter you loved at Dillards but thought was too expensive might be just the gift your employees are wanting to get you. Do not deny yourself but keep a steady head too! This is something that should bring you and your sweetheart closer plus is a fun thing to do together. Brides you plan 98% of your wedding. Let the groom help out! Enjoy each other! Make it fun by packing camphange and strawberries in the car to celebrate once you are through.

If you have any questions about registering or suggestions for other brides, email me.

Vintage-Rustic Lemons & Lavender Wedding Shower Theme

This shower theme is not only perfect for a bridal shower but also can be inspiration for your wedding theme and color scheme. Do not ever feel like you can't reuse decorations from showers or pull inspiration from your pre-wedding events. When I saw this bridal shower on Hostess with the Mostess, I was immediately drawn to the brightness and sweetness. The idea of this shower was to be provoke the warmness of the Mediterranean sun with table decor mimicking the European countryside. I love that the centerpieces were filled with lavender, lemons and limes.

Isn't it lovely? For more on this stunning shower theme, click here.

J. CREW Wedding

Hello. My name is Katie and I have a major obsession with J. Crew. Their clothes are fantastic but have you seen their bridal line? Oh my. It is stunning. I thought I would share some of my favorite things with you today. Yes, you can obsess with me. We always welcome new people.

Photo Source and More on this Dress: Here

This dress is so pretty. I picture a wedding on the beach, a vintage themed wedding or a second dress for your reception to dance the night away in!

Photo Source and More on this Dress: Here

Oh be still my heart. I love this dress! It is classic and stylish. It is elegant but also a bit modern. I picture a bride in a chic downtown ceremony or a reception on a rooftop.

Photo Source and More on this Dress: Here

This dress is romantic! I love the layers in the skirt and the fitted bodice. This dress turns heads! I picture a barn wedding or a reception with a big white tent.

They even have Bridesmaid dresses, Tuxedos and fabulous accessories. Here are a few of my favorite things:

Photo Source and More on this Dress: Here

Photo Source and More on these Shoes: Here

Photo Source and More on these Earrings: Here

They even have fun color swatches. Can you tell how much I love coral and peach tones?

You can view all of these products by visiting J. Crew online. Enjoy!

Summer Registry Ideas

For any brides registering now or for any guests attending a shower, summer gifts are always fun to get and give. Needs ideas on those perfect summer accessories for your home? I have scouted out some good deals and cute finds that can be used outside at your summer parties or indoor while enjoying family time.

Photo Source: Here

Just think how cute this paper lantern would look hanging outside on your porch as your guests arrived! It would also look great hanging outside on your back patio. This beauty rings in at just $14.75.

Photo Source: Here

I just love this! Yes you can make baby cupcakes in the oven but this little contraption allows you to free up your oven for other things that you need to cook while entertaining. They look yummy too! This gift averages around $40.

Photo Source: Here

How awesome! This gift speaks for itself! What a great entertaining piece plus this little beauty folds up and can be stored in a travel bag. If you are hosting a shower, all the hostesses could go in together on this gift. It costs around $60.

Photo Source: Here

I love this colorful dinnerware set. You can get a 12 piece set for just $19.99. It includes 4 Cereal Bowls, 4 Salad Plates and 4 Dinner Plates! These plates and bowls are such a fun touch to any cookout!

Photo Source: Here

I love this shade of yellow! This flower pot would be such a bright touch to any patio or front porch. You could even have it resting in the center of your kitchen table full of flowers! Prices vary depending on store.

Photo Source: Here

This pillow is fun and festive plus on sale. It is only $19.99 and would make a great gift for any bride or a perfect pop of color for any party you are hosting.

Each of these summer gifts are easy to find online, in store and at reasonable prices!

Happy Monday!

Featuring Fabulous You!

One thing I love to do besides talk about all things wedding is feature you! You guys are inspiring! You have all the experience in planning weddings and great advice for other brides. Interested in submitting your wedding to be shared on the blog? Email me: lovebirdproduction@gmail.com

Here's what to include in the email:

1. Date and Location of your big day
2. 25 plus photos that you feel best highlight your big day
3. Your vision for your wedding - Include any DIY projects, why you chose the theme you did, your colors, your vision, any fun details...
4. Your vendors - Just list all of your vendors
5. Favorite part of the day plus any advice for other brides!

I can't wait to hear from you! Let's make it about all you fabulous brides!

Happy weekend!

Love Song Friday, Volume 10

I love Friday's. I have been a packing machine and plan on resting the rest of the afternoon.

Today's song is by James Morrison. He is such a talented singer that has a way with words. "You Give Me Something" is about wanting someone but scared of falling in love.

I hope you are all enjoying Love Song Friday and have fun plans for the weekend!

Reception Idea: Vermontucky Lemonade

Did anyone notice I was absent yesterday? I know. Terrible. I really hate missing a day during the week but with all the packing my life is crazy. My mom surprised me and came up for a day to help me pack and I have taken full advantage of her being here. Now back to wedding things. I love recipes. Yes, they may not be wedding related but I love them so I make them wedding related.

Photo Source: Here

I saw this recipe on one of my favorite blogs Smitten Kitchen. I thought this little concoction was a perfect treat for any wedding reception. The Vermontucky Lemonade is full of tasty goodness including a hint of maple syrup.

Here is what you need:

1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (with an efficient squeezer, you should get this plus up to 1/3 cup extra from 2 pounds of 8 lemons)
2 1/2 cups cold water, plus additional if needed
1/4 to 1/2 cup maple syrup
Bourbon
Lots of ice

Directions:

Mix lemon juice with 2 1/2 cups water and 1/4 cup maple syrup. Taste for sweetness. If you like your lemonade sweeter, add remaining 1/4 cup maple syrup. If you found the sweetness just right, add an additional 1/4 cup cold water instead. Stir to mix. This will yield 1 quart of maple lemonade.

Fill a glass with ice. Pour your desired amount of bourbon over the ice, fill the glass the rest of the way with maple lemonade and let the force of summer be with you.

Hope you enjoy! Come back this afternoon for Love Song Friday!