Fundraisers that Rock {A Wedding for Alex}

(A Wedding For Alex)

If you haven't heard about Alex's lemonade Stand, you are missing out on such an amazing cause! I first heard about Alex when I did a Google image search for "Lemonade Stand" (for a wedding project). What I found was an endless list of pictures of lemonade stands dedicated to this wonderful cause. Alex's Lemonade Stand was started by a little girl with cancer. She didn't live to see her ninth birthday, but in her short time, she managed to raise over $1 million towards the fight against cancer---I've lived almost 3 times longer and can't even begin to think of how much she accomplished in such a short time!

Now, the charity lives on, and people continue to raise money in the name of Alex and her Lemonade Stand. Now, as a bride, you have a chance to make your dreams come true, while also helping this amazing cause. Omni Hotel at Independence Park has put together a wedding package to rival all wedding packages. For $20,000 (or more) you can bid on this amazing dream wedding on EBay, and have a five star wedding fit for royalty. You'll get a wedding for 135 guests at the Omni, a couture gown, a honeymoon to Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa (my husband and I honeymooned here, and it is AMAZING!)...you also get a rehearsal dinner, and so much more! Check out the website for full details on all that's included (jewelry, hair, cake, photo, video and entertainment, and more!) Bidding begins today, and runs through June 7th! Bid Now!

Planning 101 {Setting the Date}

(image source)

Picking a date can be very exciting. Often, couple's pick a date without too much consideration, which can lead to trouble down the road. Before you pick your date, consider the people and places around you---do any of the "key players"---you know, the important people like your parents, bridal party, and siblings---have prior engagements? You don't have to completely rule out a date because one potential bridesmaid won't be able to stand up, but if she's really important to you (or 3 or 4 of your bridesmaids will be MIA) then you may want to consider another date. Will you have relatives unable to come because you've chosen a date that correlates with high school or college graduation, or because their kids are finishing up school?

Secondly, consider the places around you. Do you live near a major university, sport facility, or festival location? Here in St. Joseph we are roughly 40 minutes from Notre Dame---however, many couples are surprised to find that on home game Saturdays, a hotel room in the greater St. Joseph area is extra expensive, if not elusive all together. The same goes for the annual Venetian Festival in July, which brings in more than 100,000 tourists to the town and hotels. So if the venue you love is booked for the entire year, and has ONE hot date available....take a closer look, and make sure that you're not missing an important event or activity that will throw a wrench in your plans. On the other hand, if you're willing to battle crowds, and subject your guests to limited or pricey accommodations, you may be able to negotiate some great deals on these weekends!

Wedding Laughs

This was just too funny not to share!

Vendor Feature {Kelly Powers Photography}

(photo copyright Kelly Powers Photography)

When it comes to choosing your vendors, there are few pieces of advice more important than this: Choose vendors who you can enjoy spending the day with! If you don't care for them during your initial meeting, chances are, you won't enjoy them sharing your big day with you. No where is this more true, than with a photographer, with whom you will spend more time than the majority of your other vendors. It is so important to find someone you are comfortable with, and who you will enjoy spending this special day with!

Last week I met up with Kelly Powers to talk weddings, and get to know her and her work. I've admired her work via her web site, but was very excited to meet her in person and get to know her! I simply can't say enough about what a sweet and wonderful person Kelly is. She took me out for a shoot around the city, and I'm not sure I've ever had so much fun getting my picture taken! I can't wait to see the results later this week!

Kelly does amazing work, which I truly believe comes from the kindness of her spirit, and the connection she forms with her clients. If you're looking for a photographer, check her out---you will not be disappointed!

Vendor Score Card {Michele+Tim} 4.19.08

(Image copyright Ben Pancoast Photography)

A little late, but here is the recap of my April 19th wedding with Michele+Tim, and their wonderful team of vendors that helped bring the whole day together (in less than 4 months!)

Wedding Coordination: Stella Event Design (obviously!)
Services Provided: Full Service Planning, start to finish!

Reception: Vineland Center, St. Joseph, MI
Rating: A
The Vineland Center officially opened about 6 months before the wedding. It's brand new, very versatile, and has a wonderful staff. The owner, Don, bent over backwards for us.
Website

Catering: The Catering Department at the Vineland
Rating: A+
We've all eaten wedding food---there's good wedding food---then there's GOOD FOOD. The Catering Department knocked everyone's socks off with the delicious spread.
Website

Floral: Beikmann Associates, Niles, MI
Rating: A
Sheri is a sweetheart, and was wonderful to work with. The bouquets were beautiful, she let us assemble our own centerpieces, and she was very accommodating...even when we decided at the last minute to tape down the aisle runner!
Website

Bakery: Debbie Karsen, Watervliet, MI
Rating: A
Debbie was an acquaintance of the bride and groom, who also happens to make wonderful cakes! The wedding cake was beautiful and delicious, as was the grooms cake. If you'd like her contact info, please shoot me an email!

Photography: Ben Pancoast, The Photography Team, St. Joseph, MI
Rating: A+
I love working with Ben---he captures amazing shots, makes the most of his surroundings, and thinks on his feet. I'm always surprised by the fun shots that come out of the simplest things! Plus, he's super nice, and brides and grooms have a blast spending the day with him.
Website

Entertainment: Music Unlimited DJ, Riverside, MI
Rating: A
Tim of Music Unlimited did a fantastic job of keeping the night going! He's great at communicating with couples, and familiarizing himself with exactly what they want, which is great! He also took charge of "Karaoke for a Kiss," which turned out to be a completely fun and phenomenally successful part of the evening---so much fun!
Website

Bartending: With A Twist! Stevensville, MI
Rating: A
Sue Luther's gang at With A Twist! is absolutely phenomenal. Each and every bartender I've worked with has been fantastic, and this event was no different! Also, her rates are amazing, and can't be beat! If you'd like to contact Sue, shoot me an email and I'd be happy to get you in contact!

Okay, so this report card makes me look like one of those mushy teachers that gives everyone an A, but I say, if you deserve it, you deserve it---no bell curves here! Everyone did an amazing job, and helped to bring together an event that was so fun and special. Michele+Tim are (another) amazing couple, and I'm so thankful to have been able to share this special day with them!

Engagement Photos {Kate+Mitch}

Kate+Mitch had their engagement pictures snapped earlier this week, and I just couldn't wait to share! The awesome Jen of JK Photography travelled to Chicago to take some amazing photos of this very fun couple! Check out her blog for even more---they found some really fun locations, from a light shop to a marina! Above is my absolute favorite shot, but it has some close competition!
The exact spot where Mitch proposed! I love it! Kate+Mitch are getting married on the beach, also, which is perfect!
Thanks so much to Kate+Mitch (and Jen) for letting me share some of their amazing engagement pics!

More Ways to {Follow} Stella

Follow Stella Event Design on Twitter! My husband finally talked me into trying this, and I have to say I'm slowly becoming hooked!

I promise to update you on all of the exciting and off the wall things that go on around here, like breakfast, lunch, and dinner! And of course, I'll throw in all of the exciting, glamorous, and mind-bending wedding and event planning activities we're up to! Follow me here! If you don't have a twitter, don't worry---it's super easy to set up, and even easier to customize--you'll have a page you love in no time, and people will be lining up to stalk (I mean follow) you!

Please excuse my short absence from blogging this week---my Mom was in the hospital for a few days for surgery, and life is finally getting back to normal---expect more updates soon!

Blog Love {Sparkliatti}

The Sparkliatti Blog, hosted by the oh-so-fabulous Sasha Souza, is one of my new favorites! After taking a glimpse at this gorgeous sunrise-inspired board, I just had to share! Check out her blog for non-stop eye candy and inspiration!

Also, if you're a bride-to-be, check out her great post on escort cards vs. place cards---this is a question asked so often, and she does a great job of summing up the differences----YES, they are 2 completely different things!

Ring Love

My post from earlier today put me in a mood for detail shots, so here are some more ring shot beauties from Ben & Dan at The Photography Team.

(all images copyright The PhotographyTeam)

Pro Pics Teaser {Michele+Tim}

I'm under the weather this weekend, recouping from bronchitis, and becoming addicted to "So You Think You Can Dance," thanks to the marathon of last seasons episodes I've been sucked into all afternoon! Between naps on the courch, I was pleasantly surprised to receive some of the pro pics from my April 19th wedding, courtesy of photog Ben Pancoast. So, to apologize for my absence from blogging while I continue to be pampered by my husband, and hopefully kick the sickness, here are 2 of my favorite photos from the wedding---expect more soon!I love ring pictures, and this one doesn't let me down---I don't know what it is, but I absolutely adore this picture!

Loving It {Etsy:Gochemoche}

(pictures via Gochemoche on Etsy)

Etsy seller Gochemoche has some of the coolest Japanese-inspired hair pieces and boutonnieres that I couldn't wait to share. I was catching up on my blog reads since being back from vacation, when I came across this real wedding featured by Perfect Bound, one of my favorite daily reads! I was scanning through, attempting to catch up on my 700 (yes, 700!) new posts, and this picture of their custom bouts caught my eye. I checked out the etsy site, and Gochemoche offers so many fun and customizable pieces from bouts to broaches, ponytail holders, and hair pins! Everything is handmade, and made from authentic materials. I must have one, so I'll post pics when I get mine---I haven't even picked from all of the amazing choices yet! These would be absolutely adorable for your 'maids hair, or as a cute gift for your gals!

Destination: Southwest Michigan {Fernwood Botanical Gardens}

(photo copyright MONIKA PHOTO)

Another beautiful outdoor wedding location in Southwest Michigan! Fernwood Botanical Gardens is located on Range Line Road in Niles. Fernwood is a beautiful location for small, intimate weddings. Members are able to reserve an outdoor area and/or meeting room by calling the Visitors Center. The reservation fee, which can be found here, includes admission to all of Fernwood for your wedding party and a pre-specified number of guests (100 people maximum). Fees are based upon the total number of people attending the celebration, including bridal party, parents, and guests.

Thanks to Monika Caban of MONIKA PHOTO for supplying this beautiful photo! I met up with Monika for lunch on Thursday, to talk weddings and go over some of her work! She shared some of her beautiful photos with me, as well as some amazing albums she offers! She is such an open and genuine person, and focuses on the relationships and meaning of the day, to capture the "fleeting moments" of emotion that you will look back on so fondly! She's done a number of amazing outdoor {and indoor} weddings in Southwest Michigan and beyond, so if you're planning a wedding in Southwest Michigan, check her out!

Manage {Your Budget}

(image source)

When planning weddings, I always have a budget to consider. Whether that budget be $15,000, $25,000, or $50,000, I have yet to meet a couple that doesn't have some sort of pre-determined idea of their personal spending limit. Determining the amount you have to spend may be the easy part, but sticking to that magic number often poses a challenge once you become inundated with couture gowns, custom stationery, and every must-have wedding trinket under the sun. It's easy to get carried away, and the longer you wait to set a budget, the more you will get pulled off track. So, first things first, sit down and determine how much you can spend. If parents will be contributing, ask them up front, and find out how much you can expect. You shouldn't assume on a contribution unless you've already discussed it {trust me, you'll be glad you did!}.

I found a great article called "Your Wedding Budget: 41 Ways to Save," which offers great ways to trim your budget, and keep things on track.

Here are a few tips::

Time Is Money
The most important money-saving issue is time. And the less time you have, the more likely you are to make rash decisions and thus compromise your finances. Give yourselves enough time to shop around for the best vendor prices.

Keep it Simple
Forgo the personalized accents; napkins and matchbooks alone can cost several hundred dollars.

Consultants Cut Costs
Hire a wedding consultant. You will undoubtedly recoup his or her fee with the sound advice he or she can provide about getting more or better service for your money.

Limo Limit
Don't get caught up in the idea that you need a wedding cavalcade to transport everyone to the reception. Limit the number of limos you use, or ask a friend with a vintage car to drive the two of you and book a mini bus or van to transport both the wedding party and your parents.

Read the Full Article.

Here Come the Brides{Melinda+James}

Melinda+James are tying the not in the Michiana/South Bend area on October 10, 2009. I sat down and met with them last weekend, and they are such a cool pair. I love fall weddings, and am so excited to work on this one, with such a nice couple! They're planning a gorgeous fall motif with hues of burnt orange and other rich, deep accents. We will also work to carefully incorporate the couple's love of Halloween in a sophisticated and stylish way! We're working with Melinda+James from start to finish, so keep posted for updates on site visits, which are coming soon!

Stepping out {Las Vegas}

Stella Event Design is headed to Las Vegas!
I will be out of the office Saturday through Tuesday, but will keep posting regularly! I will respond to emails when I get back! I love all things that shine, sparkle & glitter{like all of Las Vegas} so look for pretty pics when I get back!

Blog Love {Ritzy Bee Blog}

(Laura Hooper Calligraphy)

The {Ritzy Bee Blog} is one of my favorites. Check out the great information they have posted on Wedding Invitations. They have great tips listed on wording etiquette, titles {ie. Doctor vs. Dr.}, all those envelopes, and more! If you're not already stalking this blog, add it to your list!

Here Come the Brides{Jenny+Ray}

Time to meet another "Here Come the Brides" couple! Jenny+Ray are tying the Knot on 8.22.09 in the South Bend/Michiana area in Indiana. I met up with them a few months ago at the new Hilton Garden Inn on the Campus of St. Mary's in South Bend, and am so excited to get started on their planning! We are starting from scratch on this one, and will share all of the details as we plan the wedding from start to finish! Jenny has already decided on a beautiful color scheme of Lime and Navy with White accents---how fun and modern is that! Check out this fabulous inspiration board put together by April.

I am so excited about getting to share the start-to-finish details on these weddings, and am so grateful to all of the wonderful couples who were so excited to share with everyone!

Blog Love {Let's Eat Cake!}

(Let's Eat Cake!)

Today I came across something I had to share! Melissa at Masterpiece Weddings is hosting her first National Fundraiser, in the form of a Wedding Cake competition to support St. Jude's Children's Hospital! Chef's and amateurs alike will have the opportunity to compete before Judges that include World Renowned Pastry Chef's, and celebrities on their artistic abilities, intricate designs, and taste! At the end of the competition, spectators will be asked to join in on the fun and taste the cake!

I couldn't be more excited about what an amazing event this is to sponsor such a fabulous organization! They are looking for donations of all sorts to make this event a reality---from decor and volunteers to monetary donations and celebrity judges. Check out their Wish List, to see if you can help!

If you're a fellow wedding blogger, I know Melissa would love it for this information to get passed on to your readers----perhaps they can help! To learn more about St. Jude's, click here.

Here Come the Brides {Kate+Mitch}

Kate+Mitch both live in Chicago, and are planning a beautiful destination wedding in St. Joseph. Their ceremony will take place at Shadowland Pavilion along the beach and the St. Joseph River, and their reception will be at the beautiful Heritage Center in downtown St. Joseph.
Kate+Mitch are such a fun and sweet couple, and will be so much fun to plan with!

Blog Feature {Here Come the Brides!}

( image source)

You may have noticed we have some new links in our Sidebar! I'm excited to start a new feature called "Here Come the Brides," which will feature posts specific to several couples who are currently working with Stella Event Design to plan their '08 and '09 weddings! We're starting out with just a few, and depending on how it works, we'll add more!

Starting today, I'll do a quick intro for one couple each day. As I post information about their planning, inspiration, etc., click on their link to follow along! You'll be able to follow each couple start to finish as they plan their big day! Perhaps you'll find a couple sharing your same color scheme, motif, or location! Each of the brides was nice enough to let everyone in on their planning, and I'm so excited to get some feedback as we brainstorm locations, flowers, music, and more! Stay tuned!

You Glow Girl! {Tanning Tips}

It's May, and as the sun starts to shine, it's time to think about protecting your skin from the sun, and getting that pre-wedding glow for those wedding pics! If you're going to hit the tanning bed, now is a great time to get started for your summer wedding. Find a reputable tanning salon in your area that will help you to determine your skin type, and set you up on a gradual tanning schedule that will get you golden without burning you to a crisp!

To protect your skin, you can also go with a UV-free option. If you're thinking about a faux tan for the first time, it can be a little scarey! You'll want to weigh which option is best for you, from doing it yourself, to getting a professional application.

Check out this super helpful article from The Knot, to find out the pros and cons of all of the methods to making you a sun-kissed wedding goddess!

Southwest Michigan's Beautiful Beaches {Part 2}

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Weko Beach is located off of Exit 16 (I-94) in Bridgman, Michigan. The city beach is the little sister of Warren Dunes State Park. It offers a beautiful stretch of beach, along with picturesque walkways and overlooks built into the dunes. Also on Weko Beach is the beautiful Beach House, which is available to rent for weddings and other events. The building is directly on the beach and has 3 walls of windows facing Lake Michigan. The building is unavailable from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Now you just have to pretend the dune grass is green and beautiful and the trees are full and lush!

Venues {Southwest Michigan's Beautiful Beaches}

I get a lot of inquiries from out of town brides (many from the Chicago area) looking for outdoor ceremony sites in Southwest Michigan. Unfortunately, unless you are familiar with the area, or have the time to really do some investigating on your own, outdoor ceremony locations can be difficult to locate for a destination wedding (unless of course you're headed to a heavily travelled wedding spot such as the Caribbean).

Southwest Michigan offers some beautiful options for outdoor ceremonies. Kelly, one of my most recent brides, is from Chicago, and planning a destination wedding in Southwest Michigan. Since we'll have limited time to look at venues together, I snapped some photos this weekend of potential ceremony locations. I thought I'd share for any of you planning an outdoor destination wedding in the area!

This is a portion of Silver Beach, which is just South of the Pier on St. Joseph River. This particular spot is a path that leads down to a sculpture on the beach, with dunes on both sides. The sculpture on the beach would serve as a great focal point for a ceremony...almost like an altar space! This is a public area, so there would be no way to "reserve" it, so guests would probably need to stand. While there is a large stretch of beach to choose from on Silver Beach, this particular spot lends itself perfectly to having an aisle!

Shadowland Pavilion is just a stones throw away from the beach location shown previously. It's situated on a corner between the St. Joseph River and Lake Michigan. The lighthouse can be seen in the background, and the dunes line the south side. There is even a beautiful sculpture in the backdrop! One thing I love about St. Joseph is that there is sculpture everywhere! There's at least 6 different pieces along Silver Beach alone! The nice thing about Shadowland Pavilion is that is can be reserved, which means you are free to put up chairs, decorations, etc.! It can be reserved for 1/2 or a whole day, for a fee paid to the city. Also, in the case of inclimate weather, a smaller wedding could be brought up under the pavilion.

The John Howard Band Shell is located on the bluff of St. Joseph (the other 2 locations are below the bluff) overlooking the St. Joseph River. The band shell has nice new benches, which means no chair rentals if you're on a limited budget! Like the Pavilion, the Band shell can be reserved. There is street parking as well as several free parking lots within a block downtown. The band shell is on the edge of downtown St. Joseph, within blocks of all of St. Josephs adorable shops and restaurants.

Stay tuned for more outdoor locations coming soon!

Love it {Flowers}

(photo by Studio306)

How fantastic is this bouquet? Such subtle color, yet so strikingly beautiful...

Contest {Sk*rt}

(via Sk*rt)

We should just call it contest day today:-) I'm a little bogged down right now with sinus headache that's been ongoing since this morning, so in the hopes of not having to think, here is another contest I came across on my Google Reads. Sk*rt is holding a contest to find a new name. So head on over to their blog, browse the options listed so far, and add your own, if you're creative! And of course, there are prizes listed also!

Giveaway {at The Beautiful Garden}

Stop by The Beautiful Garden Boutique Blog and leave a comment by Wednesday, May 7th to win $250.00 in jewelry! Above are some of my personal favorites. I personally love their vintage collection, which has a lot of simple earrings that would make beautiful bridesmaid's gifts!