A Case of the Monday's

Happy Halloween! I am currently DVRing (new word) movies to watch tonight including one of my favorites, Hocus Pocus! I am excited to get a little down time with yummy treats and spooky movies even though my husband is not a fan. Yes, Hocus Pocus is not scary but the others that I have recorded are. Maybe I can bribe him to watch them with me!

Well I did it! I finished my first half marathon. I cannot believe it. After months of training, I finally reached my goal. It felt beyond good! I already signed up for my next one and get to run it with a lot of girls from back home. I am excited and extremely sore.

Now onto more Halloween goodies and ideas:

I hosted a party last year for all of our friends and thought I would show you just a few snacks I made. The cupcakes were fun to make but the worms and dirt was ridiculously delicious!

I wanted to share a yummy Halloween Pumpkin recipe with you. It is easy, inexpensive and tasty!

Ingredients:

1. Sun Dried Tomato Tortillas - Any type of tortillas with an orange tint.

2. Cream Cheese

3. Parsley

4. Toothpicks

Directions.

1. Lay the tortilla flat and spread a layer of cream cheese on it. I like a lot of cream cheese but others may not. Cream cheese at your own discretion.

2. Roll of the tortilla nice and tight.

3. Place in the fridge for about 15-30 minutes or until it is nice and cold.

4. Take a knife and slice the tortilla, cutting it in miniature rolls.

5. Grab your toothpicks and parsley leaves. (While the tortilla is chilling you can wash your parsley and pull off the leaves.)

6. Insert the toothpick through the leaf and roll.

7. Set out and watch guests gobble them up while telling you what a great hostesses you are. (This is my favorite step!)

Told you it is easy and fast. I love recipes that you can do the night before and this one would be great.

Did any of you attend Halloween parties this weekend? What did you dress up as? Share all the details! Hope everyone enjoys the trick or treaters today!

Love Song Friday, Volume 28

Happy Friday! Wahoooo! This weekend is bringing a first for me. I will be running in my first half marathon tomorrow. I am nervous, excited and ready! As I drink my 15th glass of water this morning I can't help but think of where this started. I believe that everything happens for a reason. Yes, even the sad things. God's plan is so big and I am just grateful I am apart of his will.

This summer I visited my best friend Summer. She was training for her first FULL marathon (crazy girl) and had already accomplished 3 or 4 halves. I remember trying to run two miles with her and I made it about 1 and a quarter. I was breathing so hard and exhausted. I think this is the most out of shape I have ever been. I complained about how I couldn't do it. I remember thinking their is no way my size 10 body could run 13.1 miles but I wanted to try it. Over training these past months I have realized that it all it takes, the want. Summer told me that running is 10% physical and 90% mental. She couldn't have been more right. When you are running 5 miles and you have 1 more to go what are you telling yourself to push through? Training has brought pains, sore muscles, tears, laughter and even a little dancing along with my ipod. Three months ago I started a journey that I didn't think I would complete but here I am.

I originally chose to run the San Antonio Rock n' Roll Half Marathon but have a wedding that weekend. I found another half marathon here in New Braunfels that supports a cause dear to my heart. The Chosen: Marathon for Adoption helps serve families with support and financial aid plus works to improve the living conditions of orphans in Burundi, Haiti & Costa Rica through building projects for new homes and schools. Many people know but some do not but my hero is adopted.

My mother was adopted by my wonderful grandparents when she was just a baby. My grandparents adopted both my uncle and mom. If you think about it we all have been touched in some way by adoption. My mom is such a blessing. If it wasn't for my grandparents I might not even be here. I love my family and am grateful for all that they have blessed me with.

When I saw this half marathon I knew that God had lead me to this one. I am truly running for a cause that I love. Please say a prayer and send positive vibes my way because I am anxious. Fingers crossed!

This past week we had a great week on Lovebird Productions! Monday we celebrated just how great love is. I got to share a special couple with you, Todd and Kimberly. Wedding Dress Wednesday brought the fabulous designs of Marchesa. Finally, I shared some helpful tips to minimize stress while wedding planning.

Now onto a little song that just makes me smile. This lovely Brit gives me chills with his voice. Hooray for James Morrison. He has many hits that I love but one of my favorite's is You Make It Real. This was a potential first dance song for Rusty and I. 

I hope that this song has made you smile and that it makes your Friday that much better. Cheers to the weekend!

Tips to Avoid Stress While Wedding Planning

We have all been around one, a bridezilla. Maybe you were a bridesmaid in her wedding or sadly, you were one. Let's be honest. Planning a wedding is hard with or without a professional planner. You are constantly in the spotlight, always making decisions and planning one of the most memorable days of your life but don't actually see it put together until your wedding day. I am getting stressed just thinking about it!

To start things off enjoy this little clip:



I WANT MY CHOCOLATE CAKE! Boy oh boy! haha Let's jump start things in a positive direction and avoid any cake smashing. Put the cake down ladies. Now surely none of you have decided to smash a cake or yell at a vendor but their are moments of pure panic. I know that sometimes I am a rainbows and sparkles kind of girl but I for no reason think any bride should be pushed to this limit (minus the tad bit of crazy this girl might have already been). We all think about things to cut down on pre-wedding stress but let's just review a few...just in case:

1. Give yourself realistic timelines. If you want to have a year to plan your wedding then give yourself a year. Realistic time lines are important. Some brides require more time than others and their is nothing wrong with that. If you are wanting to have a wedding full of DIY details, make sure you set goals as to when things should be completed. The biggest thing with DIY weddings is plenty of cute details but sometimes not enough time to complete them. Make your day happen on your timeline!

2. Delegate wisely. This is SO important. Simply stated, you cannot do this all on your own. You have responsibilities to family, friends, work, other events and now a wedding. Ask for help! Bridesmaid and family should already be knocking at your door asking what they can do. If they aren't then kindly ask for their assistance. Their is no job too big or too small. If you need a girlfriend to help you punch holes in favors and loop in ribbon, ask her. This is your day and you will return the favor or may already have for them. Keep in mind to delegate tasks to appropriate girls. Do not ask a non dependable friend to make your invitations. You need girls you can rely on. Do not hesitate to ask for others help. I promise they want too!

3. Positive words. I know this may be silly but I find it very helpful. Try writing down positive quotes or sayings. Stick them wherever you wish. You can put them on your bathroom mirror, throughout your calendar or on your phone. Positive reinforcement whether visually or from others always helps. You are going to make it to your wedding and mostly enjoy your day! Keep up the good vibes!

4. Stick to your guns. I have to be honest this one is tough. When planning your wedding others will have a LOT of suggestions. Some of them you will like and other ideas you will not. That is okay. Make sure to politely turn down any ideas that you are not wanting. This was really hard for me. I wanted everyone to feel included and loved but some ideas I did not see for my big day. Kindly tell them thank you for the suggestion but you are going to try something else. They may seem disappointed at first but I promise they will be over it quickly! If for some reason you have a family member or friend trying to control your big day in ways that you do not like stand firm. If they persist, send them to me. ha!

5. Enjoy your Engagement. The second you get married people start asking when is your date? My husband and I didn't discuss marriage and plans after our engagement. We just knew wanted to get married! Take time to bask in your newly engaged status. Have an engagement party or family get together to celebrate. Their are no rules as to when you have to start planning! If you already have your date and venue ready when you get engaged, you are one step ahead! Celebrate the now!

6. Write down monthly goals. This is so helpful. You should always write down what you want to complete for the current month. When first planning you tasks will be large things like selecting a venue or hiring a band but closer to the wedding you will have a lot of smaller tasks to get completed. You can always count on the help of online planners or bridal books. (You can find some great examples here.)

7. Remember what all this is about. This is the most important thing on this list. Never lose sight of what this whole planning process is for. When I meet with brides the morning of their wedding I always tell them not to worry about anything else. If something isn't ready then who cares? It is your day and the whole goal is a lifetime of happiness with the one you love. Marriage is a blessing and no wedding planning blues should take away from that.

I hope these few reminders help when planning your big day! Have you ever had a bridezilla moment or thought you couldn't handle another day of wedding planning? What do you do to de-stress?

Wedding Dress Wednesday

Wednesday y'all! Can you believe we are in the middle of the week? You know what Wednesday means. Wednesday = the chance to oooh and ahhh over a beautiful wedding gown. It is the opportunity for soon-to-be brides to get inspiration for when it comes to their gown while married gals like me just keep dreaming or trying to think of a reason to buy another wedding dress. By the way, if you think of a reason to purchase another one please let me know. No reason has yet to convince my husband that I need another gown. Ridiculous, isn't it? haha

Today we are being treated to Marchesa. The fabulous ladies of Marchesa have such an interesting story. I love when creative minds unite because we ladies get to be blessed with their designs and style expertise. Now onto their fabulous Fall 2012 bridal line.

Photo Source: Here

I know. I told you they are brilliant. I can honestly say I don't think I have ever seen anything quite like this gown. It can be for an elegant church wedding or sunset nuptials on the beach. This gown makes me want to cry! I love the idea of a shawl top and flowing skirt. You could dance the night away in this gown. Thank you Lord for Marchesa.

While looking through their Fall line I also peeked at the Spring 2012 line and the one trend I am really loving are short hem lines. Of course you knew I was going to include my favorite:

Photo Source: Here

I know that shorter wedding gowns have been around for years but I feel like this trend is really starting to take off. When you picture your gown I would guess most brides just see themselves in something long and traditionally most brides purchase a longer gown but this style makes you want to dare to show those legs. Short hems offer just the right amount of sultry, sexiness while still making you look pretty, bridal and one-of-a-kind.

I wish that I could be best friends with these designers especially when it comes to wedding day duds. What type of gown did you wear or are thinking about purchasing? Are you going short or long? Make sure you always feel your best in your dress!

Lovebird Spotting: Kimberly and Todd

Good morning! Today I am getting to share another stunning couple with you! I know this may sound silly but through the handful of weddings I have been apart of I have been blessed with amazing and beautiful women. This next couple is outstanding. Kimberly and Todd will be tying the knot in just a few short weeks on November 12th. I have had the privilege on knowing Kimberly for 5 years now. She is one of my sorority sisters and has the sweetest spirit. I can honestly say I don't think I have ever heard one bad or negative thing come out of her mouth. Being around Kimberly, encourages your spirit, makes you smile and challenges your faith. Todd and Kimberly couldn't be more perfect for each other! Okay, okay...I know you would rather read about her than hear what I have to say. Here goes:

1. Tell me how you two met.

Todd and I met through a ministry on campus at Arkansas State University called Campus Outreach. We probably met before this, but the first time I remember talking to Todd was at Campus Outreach New Years Conference in December of 2009. I just remember sitting there talking to Todd after just getting to know him. He shared his heart for the Lord and really challenged my thinking and encouraged me. After that, we became good friends and remained that way for over a year.

2. How was your first date? What did you do?

Our first date was probably much different than what most people would expect. Todd and I had been talking and hanging out for a while as good friends. I still remember the day he talked to me about dating. I had asked him to go watch my cousin play baseball with me. On the way back, the first words out of Todd’s mouth were “We need to talk”. He proceeded to tell me how he felt God leading him to me and how he would like for us to start praying about dating. Todd was in the middle of baseball season, so there wasn’t much dating during that time. We prayed about it for a couple of weeks and decided to make it official. Our first date as an official couple was to the Caf on campus at ASU. That’s not what most people would find “romantic” but to me it was perfect and I will always remember it. (This made me smile. I always wanted a guy to ask me on a date to the cafeteria.)

3. What is your favorite memory as a couple? 

Besides the night that we got engaged, our favorite memory as a couple was the day that he surprised me in Tampa. I was in Tampa, Florida on a Summer Project with Campus Outreach for 10 weeks in 2010. Todd and I had just started dating that Spring. It was hard to leave him for 10 weeks, but this had already been planned and we had prepared ourselves to not see each other the whole summer. During the project there is a weekend for parents and families to come visit. I knew that my parents and grandma were coming, but Todd showed up at our hotel and completely surprised me. I don’t know how he pulls off these surprises, but I’m so glad that he does!

4. How did he propose? 

It was January 8 of this year. Todd told me that we were going to eat with a couple from church at their house. He had fabricated this whole story of how they wanted us to dress up because they never got a chance to have dinner much without the kids and they wanted to go all out. When we pulled in their driveway, he informed me that he had lied to me. (Great start to the night, right?) He went on to tell me that he had planned a night for us to get away and take some time together before baseball season started. We were just going to hang out alone instead of eating dinner with the other people. He had borrowed their house for the night. They have a basketball court and additional living room attached to their house. When we walked in, he had the entire hallway lined with rose petals and tea lights. It was four days before my birthday, so I just thought it was all planned for that. We sat and talked as a CD played in the background. When the song “Amen” by Dave Barnes came on, he asked me to dance with him on the basketball court. He had remembered me saying how much I loved the song and that I wanted to dance to it one day. At the end of the song he got down on one knee and proposed. As I cried hysterically and nodded my head “yes” the first words out of my mouth were “Did you ask my Daddy?” Todd still likes to joke about that one. Of course he had and as we left there, he had another surprise in store for me. My family and his family along with many of our friends were waiting at my aunt and uncle’s house to celebrate with us. It was such an amazing night, and Todd (with a little bit of help from some great friends) couldn’t have done a better job planning it all out!

5. Details about your wedding. Date, color scheme, theme, location…

Todd and I will be getting married November 12, 2011 at Central Baptist Church in Jonesboro, Arkansas. The wedding is at 5:00 and we are having a reception immediately following the ceremony at Hilton Garden Inn in Jonesboro. There will be dinner and dancing at the reception. We are also having a separate reception in Illinois (where Todd’s from) on November 19. I can’t wait to celebrate! The bridesmaid dresses are teal and the flowers will be Fall colored flowers, reds, oranges and yellows. I absolutely love all of the colors of Fall!

And lastly Kimberly's advice:

My advice for other Brides would be to have fun and enjoy your engagement! Don’t rush marriage. I’m sure marriage will be great but enjoy the time of preparing for marriage. Don’t let wedding planning consume your relationship. The wedding is such a small part of the life that you will spend together so take time to build that relationship and don’t stress over planning. It will all come together! 

I know. Now you all know why I just love Kimberly! She is wonderful! I am very excited to be apart of her big day. For even more cuteness I am going to show you a few of their engagement photos. They are such a sweet couple and these pictures showcase how much these two really do love one another. Their future together is full of opportunity and blessings! Their engagement photos were shot by J Clare Studios.

Sigh. I just love them and am ready for a little time back in Arkansas!

Monday Love

Good afternoon and Happy Monday! I just saw this picture while browsing on Pinterest and thought I would share it. No matter where you are today or what you are doing make sure to tell those around you how much you love them. Love is a gift and to be able to experience it is such a blessing. Love is in our hearts but love is not love until you give it away. Make the best of today!

Photo Source: Here via The Berry

Love Song Friday, Volume 27

Happy Friday chickadees (and chickadudes...well if any men read this). We haven't been able to celebrate Love Song Friday in two weeks. Wipe your tears away and put on that charming orbit twinkling smile because we are back!

We have had a great week on the ol' blog. We started our Monday with a weekend wrap up of the recent weddings I have filmed plus a few tips. Next we celebrated fall with this fabulous pumpkin swirl brownies and who doesn't love a good celebration? Wednesday showcased another round of fabulous gowns from the 2012 bridal fashion week. Yesterday we rounded out the week with this fun burlap banner video tutorial (say that ten times fast).

One of my favorite things about Love Song Friday is reader song suggestions. Kendra wanted to hear Lady Antebellum's Can't Take My Eyes Off You. I listened to the song and loved it! The lyrics are so touching and my favorite line is:

I love when you tell me that I'm pretty when I just wake up.

What girl doesn't love to hear that? A big thank you to Kendra for today's song!

If you have any suggestions for Love Song Friday feel free to email me: lovebirdproduction@gmail.com or comment below. I would love to hear from you and happy Friday!

Video Tutorial: Burlap Banner

Big Warning: I am so awkward on camera. I mean extremely weird. And to think I was aiming to be a network new anchor in college.

The things that happen throughout the tutorial:

1. I make a smacking noise.
2. Jane (sweet puppy) makes a few appearances.
3. I had a minor run in with the tacky glue.
4. I really tried not to be awkward. Really.
5. I think I used the wrong words at times.

Here are the supplies that I used:

1. Burlap fabric
2. Fabric or a pillowcase
3. Scissors
4. Twine
5. An Ink Pen
6. Tacky Glue

That is all that you will need for this project. It is so easy and simple. Let's take a look:



My banner from the bridal fair currently hangs above my desk. It really does inspire me every day!

I hope you all have a great day!

Wedding Dress Wednesday

With all the Fall 2012 bridal lines making their runway debut I had a very hard time deciding which gown to showcase first. They all are so gorgeous, unique and forever timeless.

One trend that some designers are daring to take on are colored gowns. Not just color like champange or light pink but full on red, sea foam green and black gowns. Here is a peek at two:

Photo Source: Vera Wang and Romona Keveza

One designer I couldn't get enough of was Carolina Herrera. Every gown that she showcased at bridal week in New York made me feel warm and fuzzy. Her gowns are sexy, elegant and just plain good. I mean really, really good! I had a hard time picking between them all but my favorite is this one:

Photo Source: Carolina Herrera

Even though this dress doesn't come across as extremely fancy I love the detailing. Sheer is such a big trend not only in bridal couture but fashion. I love the hint of skin with the sheer sleeves. The belt helps accentuate the brides small waist and adds a touch of glam. This gown would look great paired with a few bracelets and a nice low side bun. It is such a fun gown and would make any bride feel comfortable with her body shape and for a night full of dancing. One final detail that I love and didn't notice right off was the small train on the gown. It helps take the dress from elegant to bridal.

For more on the best gowns of the 2012 bridal week click here.

Recipe: Pumpkin Out the Wazoo

Like my post title? I do simply because I love pumpkin. Pumpkin Pie, pumpkin spice lattes, pumpkin martinis, pumpkin bread pudding, pumpkin rolls, pumpkin muffins, pumpkin cupcakes, pumpkin butter, pumpkin soup, pumpkin lasagna....

Okay maybe not the last one. I was just seeing if you were paying attention. Who knows? It might actually be good. I spent yesterday and today gathering my favorite pumpkin treats and even including a few tasty recipes for you to try.

1. Pumpkin Swirl Brownies: This is one of my favorite recipes because the combination of pumpkin and chocolate is picture and taste bud perfect. If you have visited this blog any you know that I am a fan of Smitten Kitchen. Her version of pumpkin swirl brownies are delicious!

Photo Source: Here

Here is what you need:

8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, plus more for pan
6 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
2 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking powder
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 to 3/4 cups sugar (the original recipe calls for the larger amount; I think it could be dialed down a bit)
4 large eggs
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
1 1/4 cups solid-pack pumpkin
1/4 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts or other nuts (optional)

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter a 9-inch square baking pan or dish. Cut a length of parchment that will cover the bottom and two sides (makes it much easier to remove), and line the pan with it. Butter the lining as well. (Deb note: I used an 8-inch square, because it was what I had. It works, too, but the brownies are crazy thick and take much longer to bake, just to give you a heads-up.)

2. Melt chocolate and butter in a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water, stirring occasionally until smooth.

3. Whisk together flour, baking powder, cayenne, and salt in a large bowl; set aside. Put sugar, eggs, and vanilla in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment; beat until fluffy and well combined, 3 to 5 minutes. Beat in flour mixture.

4. Pour half of batter (about two cups) into a separate bowl and stir chocolate mixture into it. If you find that it is a little thick (as mine was) add a little more batter (a few tablespoons or so) until it is more pourable. This is important because mine was quite thick, and the pumpkin half was quite thin, so I had trouble swirling the two together.

5. In other bowl, stir in the pumpkin, oil, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Transfer half of chocolate batter to prepared pan smoothing top with a rubber spatula. Top with half of pumpkin batter. Repeat to make one more chocolate layer and one more pumpkin layer. Work quickly so batters don’t set.

6. With a small spatula or a table knife, gently swirl the two batters to create a marbled effect. Be sure to get your knife all the way to the bottom of the pan–I didn’t, and ended up with a chocolate base, not that it is such a bad thing. Sprinkle with nuts, if using.

7. Bake until set, 40 to 45 minutes. Let cool in pan on a wire rack. Cut into 16 squares.

One of my favorite and very easy recipes is a pumpkin dip that is perfect for any fall occasion. You can dip fruit, use it to top little desserts or a nice spread for bread. It is very simple and only takes a few minutes to pull together.

Here is what you need:

1 (15 ounce) can of pumpkin
3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1 tsp vanilla
1/8 tsp cinnamon
1/8 tsp pumpkin spice
6 ounces of yogurt (Plain, fat free, greek - whichever you like best)
8 ounces Cool Whip (I used light)

1. Mix together pumpkin and brown sugar. Add vanilla and spices.

2. Mix in yogurt.

3. Fold in Cool Whip.

4. Chill in refrigerator until ready to serve.

Told you it was easy!

If you are thinking about hosting a Halloween party or fall get together I have a few free printables from Hostess with the Mostess. Enjoy the cooler weather and all things that make fall the perfect season!

All down a dirt road...

Good Morning friends! It is so good to be back and blogging. Last week was a mix of driving, weddings galore and a smidge of family time. I had two weddings back in Arkansas and both of them were amazing!

I have been extremely blessed with this business and even more blessed with beautiful and outstanding brides. I have yet to be around a "bridezilla" or a bride that I don't mesh with. The wedding this past weekend did teach me a few new lessons so I thought it was time for another round of lessons of a videographer, part deux.

Photo Source: Danielle Davis Photography/Art

1. You may have to travel on dirt roads. When Nikki first contacted me about her wedding I was beyond thrilled. I had seen her engagement photos and thought I want to film that wedding. Nikki grew up in a small town and had a vision for her wedding. The wedding was to take place at her family's "deer camp." I use the term deer camp lightly because it was hardly that. Their home on the Arkansas River was stunning. I mean just gorgeous. Their ceremony was held on a dock on the river and the reception at a big lodge nearby. This wedding was stunning. I cannot wait to share the footage with you. With all this being said I never thought I would have to drive on gravel roads to get to my location. I am very glad that I did though because who would have thought this gem of an area would be tucked away in the woods.

2. They may get rowdy. I am 100% for guests having a good time at wedding receptions especially if that is what the bride and groom had in mind for their guests. Personally, loosened up guests make for the best footage. I even captured my first guests doing the worm this weekend. Score! The thing about weddings and an open bar is that by the end of the night guests see the camera as their own documentary and not the bride and grooms. For example, I had one guest pelvic thrust into my lens which let me assure you is not enjoyable. As a vendor on a mission, just politely smile, make note to stay away from that guest and continue your job.

3. Ooooi the ceremony. Each bride has a different ceremony. I have done a total of 5 weddings now and no ceremony has been the same. I have shot at a rustic barn, two churches, a back patio overlooking a river and a dock on the river. With being a videographer or any vendor you have to be prepared for everything. When you show up the day of the ceremony make sure you have enough time to scout out the ceremony venue. You want your camera in the perfect place but that doesn't always mean it will happen. For example, I shot a church wedding a few weekends ago that the priest had very strict orders on where a camera could be placed in the sanctuary. He asked me to have it to where no guests could see the camera. That is a tad difficult but I managed. It is important to respect those around you and always check with the bride. The ceremony is the most stressful time for me. It is a one time only deal unlike the day of getting ready or the reception of dancing.

4. Say no to drinking. This one may surprise you but I cannot tell you how many times people or brides offer me a drink. It is a thoughtful gesture but I kindly say no. I am a working woman! I know this may seem silly to some of you but I am being paid to produce quality video and that is my focus. I am grateful for every bride that takes me in and treats me like family. I have been blessed!

5. From sweating to freezing. I have to have pockets. At any given time of the day I have two microphones, cords, tapes and batteries shoved into my pockets. Since bulky pants pockets are not very trendy (I haven't found the perfect solution and refuse to wear a fanny pack) I always try to wear a cute and dressy top. No matter what time I show up to start filming I am dressed for the wedding and reception. Wearing comfortable and lightweight clothing + supporting shoes is a must. I also try to remember to have a thin coat nearby for needed occasions.

6. Make her feel special. Yes I am a videographer but I am also so much more than that. I fix hair, hold trains and veils, wipe lipstick off teeth, catch fly away hairs, wrangle kids, hold bouquets, crawl on the ground, speak calming words and the list goes on. I want every bride to be pleased with my services, my hospitality and me. She deserves a perfect day and I will do everything I can to make it happen. This past weekend the vocalist didn't show up for the ceremony. She was to sing during the unity candle. I quickly spoke with the accompanist minutes before the wedding began and they came up with a short arrangement to play. That is why you hire professionals. Prime example.

Just thought I would share a few tips/things I have learned with you all on this lovely Monday. I love that I have a job that allows me to learn, be creative and meet wonderful people!

P.S. The photo at the top of the page is from the wedding this past weekend. The guys were great and entertaining! For more photos of the wedding by Danielle Davis Art/Photography, click here.

Wedding Dress Wednesday...err Thursday

My apologies for no post yesterday. With all the traveling and editing, this little blogger was tired. One day off every once in a while does the body good. Of course I am back today because I missed you guys. It is funny how you reading this makes me feel loved. It is very clique but if my post can inspire one bride or help her keep her calm then I feel accomplishment.

Have any of you seen the previews for the new Lifetime show Project Accessory? I have been a faithful watcher of Project Runway and think this show could be so fun! I have a friend who makes jewelry and I am fascinated by her talent and the entire process. Added bonus is Molly Sims is the host. She is fab! Will any of you be watching?

Blogging is time consuming. It can be hard but one thing that helps break up the mundane search for content is Wedding Dress Wednesday Thursday. I am so glad that I get to look through various wedding dresses. One of the perks of being wedding obsessed.

It is a Vera Wang kind of day. Just in case my love for Vera is not apparent, know that I love her. I love her attitude, talent, taste and designs. I don't think that I have ever seen a silhouette, item of clothing, jewelry, shoe, decor or handbag that I have ever been disappointed in. Le Sigh for Vera.

I also love how her models for the Fall 2011 line have little to no makeup because the dress days it all. Happy Thursday Lovebirds!

Anniversary Tradition

Happy Tuesday loves! I am so happy to be back in action but also doing a bit of driving today. This past weekend LBP (lovebird productions) got to be a part of Murray and Laken's wedding in Jonesboro, Arkansas. It was so beautiful and so fun!

Originally Rusty and I thought that we wouldn't get to share our first anniversary together but things worked out perfectly. We were both in our old stomping grounds of Jonesboro and got to spend a few days together. I gifted my husband with a vintage baseball glove from the 1930's that he spotted in an antique shop in Gruene, Texas. He spoiled me with electronic paper, an Amazon Kindle. I am pretty much already obsessed with it. The first book I bought was Bossypants by Tina Fey. I highly recommend it. You will laugh constantly and be jealous of her wit and charm.

With each anniversary you make different traditions as a couple. We started a new and hopefully forever continued tradition. We have decided that we want to take an annual trip somewhere, anywhere. We put four different places in a cup and the first one that was drawn is where we would go on our trip. Mind you we were in a Hampton Inn Hotel. Their paper cups and thought pad (not making that up - it said thought pad on it) came in handy! The two places I wrote down were Angel Fire, New Mexico for snow skiing and the California Coast. Rusty wrote Disney Land and Vegas. Angel Fire won! It was really fun to do and I already want to start planning for this vacation. I secretly want to sneak in Vegas too!

Have you and your other half started any fun traditions for your anniversary? We still haven't eaten our cake because we are both working on the road for the next week. I would love to hear about your traditions for ringing in another awesome year of marriage!

Wedding Week: The Honeymoon

Due to only having my mom's 2004 box monitor on Friday this post is taking center stage today. Rusty and I celebrated our first wedding anniversary with family and friends yesterday. It was a perfect day! We ended the day picking our family trip for the year! Can't wait to share more on that. Now onto our honeymoon recap:

Even though it only took me four months to plan our wedding while some brides take well over a year I knew exactly what a honeymoon was for. Yes, it was for romance but more than anything it was to help you become sane again. For months I was dreaming of baby's breath and floral arrangements. A honeymoon would bring me back to life and leave the bridal planning to the next bride.

We looked at a lot of different potential destinations. We searched every tropical spot plus a little of Europe but my husband decided on one resort in Mexico. We went to Riveria Maya, Mexico to the El Dorado Seaside Suites. He wanted to go here because our suite had a patio with steps that led into a lazy river which then led to a swim-up bar. Perfection in my husband's eyes. I wasn't really wanting to go to Mexico but he had never been and everyone should be able to say that they have been to Mexico at least once. He ultimately did make the best decision because this place was perfect. Our days were filled with breakfast, laying on the beach, fruity drinks, reading a book, lunch, then realizing it was only noon so retreating to our room for a nap. We knew we didn't want a sight seeing vacation because we wanted rest and relaxation. We got exactly that! It was bliss.

Everyone searching for a honeymoon, I always recommend El Dorado Seaside Suites. They took care of us from the moment we stepped off the place until the second they put us back on a week later. We also realized about mid week that there were no children running around. Rusty and I love kids but it did make a difference. I also recommend all-inclusive. We took $100 and used it only to tip. I didn't have to keep a purse on me. The dinner's were delicious and the entertainment was wonderful! It was such a great trip and a blessing to be able to go! Enjoy the pictures and have a fab Monday:

For more on our wedding week recap's click here, here, here and here.

Wedding Week: The Reception

Our reception was a blast! Like I mentioned before, Rusty and I wanted to make sure our guests were entertained and truly enjoying themselves. We had a buffet style sit down dinner, a bar stocked full of soda, beer and wine, a dessert table and cake. Rusty and I shared our first dance to Al Green's "Let's Stay Together." I also surprised Rusty by singing to him while Brady (one of the usher's) played his guitar. It was so fun to sing to my new husband. It is just another way to show my love to him. Like yesterday, I hope to let the pictures show you what a good time we had! For more on our wedding week, click here, here and here.