Saturday, May 19, 2012

What Do Men Really Think About Weddings


So, I’m sitting in a consultation with my clients, a beautiful couple deciding on linens for their Winter Wonderland wedding.  As much as the groom tried, and boy did he try, he just couldn’t get into it all.  As the bride pawned over the different shades of white and ivory, she’d look to her hubby-to-be, his head would snap to attention and out of it a swift “sure babe,” “looks good” and on occasion “as long as you love it.”  She’d smile, roll her eyes and move on to the next shade.   

As the meeting progressed, with colors and linens confirmed, I provided the itemized invoice and what do you know, phone down, eyes squared we’ve officially got his attention.  I know it sounds cliché, but is it true?  That when it comes to weddings men are only concerned about one thing – not the theme, location, colors or even the date – they only care about the COST? 

What better way to find out then to ask, and that’s exactly what we did.  We called a few of our close clients, as well as two of our future grooms, and asked the million dollar question. 

The reality is, yes, cost is king for men.  However, they also care about the look of the wedding.  However, in most cases while their bride will lose sleep over the latter, they’re not as dedicated to the former and that’s where the groom comes in.  Of course I want it to be nice because it’s a reflection of both of us; however in my case my wife had the design under control.  The only thing out of control was the cost” M. Hansen, 2008 Groom.

Weddings are an important moment in two people’s lives.  The wedding is not the problem, it’s when ‘the moments’ cost too much and the importance of it is over inflated,” –D. Logan, Future groom.  Girls see all the bride shows and want what they see, which for most couples is not realistic, and then they turn all Bridezilla.  No man wants to deal with that.”  You’ve got couples literally going into major debt to live up to the commercialization of weddings.  Going in debt over a wedding should never be an option or considered.”

And there you have it.  When we take a step back, while the role the groom plays in the whole wedding thing is different, it’s necessary.  In most cases, he’s the realist.  He sees beyond right now and into the future.  Yes, he wants it to be nice, but nice can happen without breaking the bank. 

Okay fine, guys!  We can accept that ;)

Happy Planning!

Friday, May 11, 2012

Celebrating Erica Campbell’s Baby Zaya

On Thursday night we got a sneak peek at Grammy recording artist Erica Campbell’s baby shower on the reality show MaryMary.  This show follows the beautiful and dynamic sister gospel duo Tina and Erica Campbell.  (They both married men with the same last night…so cool!) 

I’m totally in love with the theme and design of the shower.  Who says all the tables have to be the same.  The carousel theme features an array of beautiful table designs and fabulous linens in various shades of pink.   The pink and champagne color inspiration was perfect for the intimate and heartfelt event that included only their closes family and friends.  My fav table design was definitely the guest of honor table where the beautiful Erica and her hubby Warren Campbell, Grammy Award winning Producer, embraced the love.  Their table was draped in a Champagne Rosette overlay.

As if the beautiful décor wasn’t enough, what really stole the show was an amazing game played that allowed guest to form groups and write a song about baby Zaya Monique.  Among the contestants was the one and only Grammy Award Winner Jill Scott.  Of course, she won, and rightfully so.  The song she wrote was absolutely amazing…I guess that will be why she has a Grammy ;)  Check out the video below. 

The Campbells welcomed baby Zaya Monique into the world on January 25, 2012.   




Wednesday, May 9, 2012

What Type of Wedding Reception is Right For You?

When it comes to wedding receptions, one size doesn't have to fit all.  Let About.com help you find the reception that works best for you.  They provide a very helpful guide, in addition to the pros and cons of different reception ideas. 

"When envisioning your wedding reception, do you see the beauty of early morning light dancing through the trees or an all night, all-out party? There are so many different types of wedding receptions, there's going to be one right for your style, AND your budget."

Read more from About.com Guide.