Buon Affaré Events

Changes at Buon Affare Events

2011-06-24T13:11:00.000-07:00

Thank you for your interest in Buon Affare Events. Unfortunately, BAE is no longer offering wedding planning services. We have loved working with all of our past clients and wish them all the best.

For future assistance please contact Joyful Details at www.joyfuldetails.com.

Gorgeous Lakeway Resort Wedding

2011-05-04T06:12:00.000-07:00

How exciting to wake up and find these gorgeous photos in my inbox! This truly stunning wedding was featured on Style Me Pretty Texas yesterday and I just had to post the photos today! This wedding was one of the last weddings Rachel did last summer and I was able to assist her that night and I am so glad I did. This one was amazing! The couple made their own centerpieces and they were so fun! Oh, and be sure and check out the cake. The groom is the nephew of Judy Lee from Simon Lee Bakery here in Austin so the cakes were just amazing! And last but not least be sure and check out their exit. This couple jumped into the pool at Lakeway to cap off their extraordinary night.

This amazing wedding would not have been possible without the help of some truly wonderful vendors.

Venue: Lakeway Resort & Spa
Flowers: Bouquets of Austin
DJ: Greenbelt DJ
Photographer: Table 4 Photography
Lighting: D&H Lighting
Cakes: Simon Lee

Wishing you all the best Ann & Daniel,
Kristi

Happy Cinco de Mayo

2011-05-03T14:28:00.000-07:00

Cinco de Mayo is almost here so when I stumbled upon these beautiful decorations I just had to share.

Source

And what would your fiesta party be without a great margarita? Doesn't this Raspberry one look amazing?

Photo & recipe via Hostess with the Mostess

Happy Cinco de Mayo,

Kristi

Rain, Rain Come Again!

2011-04-27T15:26:00.000-07:00

It seems like it has been so long since it rained here in Central Texas and we could really use it! So when I came across these photos from one of my weddings last summer when we actually had some rain I thought it might help bring on some rain here if I posted it but not on a Saturday of course. Keep your fingers crossed!! This couple was so fun and despite the rain had a gorgeous wedding. Aren't their umbrellas cute?

A big thanks to all the vendors who helped with this wedding.
Photos: Alamo Photographic
Caterer: Pascal's Catering
DJ: Austin Wedding Jookbox
Cakes: Michelle's Patisserie
Flowers: Blossom's Floral Artistry

Best wishes to Bethany & Jason,
Kristi

Easy Table Numbers

2011-04-26T07:57:00.000-07:00

When I came across these DIY table numbers I just had to share them with you. They are so cute and are really easy to do. You can paint the inside of the can to match your wedding colors and then just add a candle and they are done.

For the complete project visit 100 Layer Cake.

Have fun crafting,

Kristi

Green Wedding Bouquets

2011-04-20T12:21:00.000-07:00

In honor of Earth day later this week, when I saw these unique bouquets that include food items I had to share. They truely are beautiful!

Photos courtesy of Green Wedding Shoes

Happy Planning,
Kristi

Spring Dessert Table

2011-04-19T09:50:00.000-07:00

This dessert table just screams Spring and really is gorgeous! Wouldn't this be beautiful at your reception?

Have fun planning,

Kristi

Easter Celebration

2011-04-15T06:24:00.000-07:00

I know this is not a wedding related post but I just had to share this adorable Easter table that I found on Hostess with the Mostess. It is just so sweet and these ideas could easily be transformed and used for a wonderful Spring wedding or bridal shower.

I love the carrot centerpiece below. So creative and super easy!

Happy Spring,

Kristi

Triple the Love

2011-04-14T05:11:00.001-07:00

I promised to post pictures of the triplets as soon as Rachel sent them so here you go! To give you an update on how everyone is doing, Rachel said they are all doing as well as can be expected for their size and age. It looks like they will have a long stay in the hospital though as doctors expect them to be there another 8 weeks. The hospital has given Rachel a nesting room so the can stay there and be close to her babies. I know she follows my blog so if you would like to leave her any comments here I am sure she will be reading them whenever she has time that is!

This is baby Natalia "Tali"

This is baby Adrik

This is baby Charlotte "Charli Kate"

Be sure and keep them all in your prayers so those babies can head home soon,

Kristi

Colored Wedding Dresses

2011-04-04T16:39:00.000-07:00

What do you think of the recent trend with celebrities wearing colored wedding dresses? I personally love it! Check out this week's cover of People magazine with Reese Witherspoon in her beautiful pink wedding gown. I think it looks amazing on her and I love the idea of using a colored dress.

Another colored wedding dress from Michael Buble and his new bride. This violet color is stunning on her!

Photos courtesy of People magazine

What do you think? Is a colored wedding dress for you?

Kristi

Triple the Joy!

2011-04-03T17:49:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to give everyone an update on Rachel. The babies are here!! For those of you who may not know, Rachel, the previous owner of Buon Affare Events was expecting triplets. Well, the babies finally made their arrival on Friday, April 1st. They were born at 30 weeks so they were a little early but everyone is doing well including mom. Charli Kate weighed 2 lbs 13 ozs, Adrik weighed 3 lbs 3 ozs and Tali weighed 2 lbs 10 ozs. I made Rachel promise to send pictures when she could and I will be sure and post them when I get them.

Welcome to the world Stepanov babies!

I want to sit at the kids table!!

2011-03-24T14:55:00.000-07:00

While we are waiting for the professional pictures from last weekend's wedding I thought I would post a few iphone pics of the adorable kids table. The bride and groom went all out to make sure their littlest guests were not left out. Not only did the kids have fun sitting at their own table but they were kept busy all night and their parents were able to enjoy all the festivities!

Not only was this centerpiece adorable it was delicious as well!

So don't forget the kids in your planning and you will have your guests saying, "I want to sit at the kids table too!"

Kristi

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2011-03-17T14:24:00.000-07:00

I hope you are having a great St. Patrick's Day and enjoying a green beer somewhere fun!

Here's to the Luck o' the Irish,
Kristi

Yellow & Gray Inspiration

2011-03-09T04:52:00.001-08:00

Have I told you how obsessed I am with gray lately? I really love it!! It is such a beautiful color and there are so many complimentary colors that you can pair with it but my favorite combo has to be yellow & gray. Look at how gorgeous this combination can be.

Crafty Friday- Felt Flowers

2011-03-04T04:51:00.001-08:00

I stumbled across these adorable felt flowers on Southern Weddings blog and thought they were so fun! Felt is really easy to work with and comes in a wide variety of colors so matching it to your wedding should be really easy.

If you have your heart set on real flowers for your bouquet these felt flowers might be a great bouquet to carry for your rehearsal or a fun bouquet to make for your mom, grandma or future mother-in-law to carry.

This gardenia would make a great boutonniere for the guys, don't you think?

Instructions on how to make these beautiful flowers are found here at The Bride's Cafe.

Let Them Eat Dessert

2011-03-02T05:35:00.001-08:00

One of our Spring brides mentioned to me that she suddenly realized after going to several cake tastings that she really doesn't like cake. Hard to believe, right? Who doesn't like cake? Well, actually I have heard that from several people so I thought I would offer some fun cake alternatives for your wedding day.

Fresh Fruit Tarts

photo provided by Project Weddings

Doughnuts are always fun and make a great midnight snack for your guests

Photo courtesy of Martha Stewart Weddings

Of course, if you are in Austin we are lucky enough to have Amy's Ice Cream

Fruit pies are as beautiful as they are tasty

Photo provided by Southern Living

Crafty Friday- Oscar Buzz

2011-02-24T05:40:00.000-08:00

With the Oscars happening this weekend I thought it might be fun for a little party inspiration this Friday. I am really excited to watch the Oscars even though to be honest, I have not seen many of the nominated movies this year. Besides the only part I really pay attention to is the fashion! For a great Oscar party why not try out this yummy cocktail on your guests.

Red Carpet Fizz

3 oz Champagne

1/2 oz Grand Marnier orange liqueur

1/2 oz lime juice

2 oz orange juice

Pour champagne, Grand Marnier and juices into glass. Add a splash of maraschino cherry juice for color. Garnish with cherry or orange slice. Enjoy!

Anthropologie Wedding Line

2011-02-23T11:28:00.001-08:00

I am sure you have heard by now that Anthropologie has a new wedding line. They really are fabulous!! Here are a few of my favorites. For the complete line visit BHLDN.

Doesn't it make you want to go shopping?

Spring Fever

2011-02-23T09:22:00.000-08:00

The weather in Austin has been extremely gloomy the past week so I thought we could use some bright spring inspiration today!

Photos courtesy of Style Me Pretty

Here's hoping Spring will get here soon,

Crafty Friday

2011-02-18T05:50:00.001-08:00

This week has flown by and it is time for another addition of Crafty Friday. I found this beautiful silk flower ring pillow on Marth Stewart Weddings. It would be a great addition to any wedding. Wouldn't your little ring bearer look adorable carrying this?

For detailed instructions on how to make this pillow visit www.marthastewart.com.

Have a great weekend,

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T05:23:00.001-08:00

Congratulations to all the newly engaged couples today! Let the planning begin! Give us a call if we can help.

We look forward to hearing from you soon,

Crafty Friday

2011-02-11T06:38:00.000-08:00

With Valentine's Day just around the corner, I thought our DIY craft for this Friday should include something holiday related. When I saw this adorable, Save the Date project I thought it would be perfect!

To make this project:
1. Cut felt two layers at a time in the shape of a heart
2. Cut coordinating ribbon and stamp with your wedding date
3. Add small adhesive magnets to the center of the bottom heart layer
4. Place dated ribbon coming out the side of heart
5. Place top layer heart over the bottom layer and begin stitching them together using embroidery thread. Be sure to stitch through ribbon to hold in place.
6. Send off to your guests with a cute message as a reminder to save your wedding date.
Project courtesy of Project Wedding

Happy Crafting,

Crafty Friday

2011-02-04T08:53:00.000-08:00

We are having a fun snow day in Austin and being stuck indoors makes me want to do something crafty. I came across this adorable wishing tree on Style Me Pretty and thought it would be a great addition for a spring wedding. How cute is this?

Happy Crafting,

Thinking Warm Thoughts

2011-02-01T09:19:00.001-08:00

The weather in Austin has suddenly turned cold again and that has me hoping for an early spring. I thought it would be fun to look back on some of our weddings from last fall when the weather was still warm and beautiful.

I can't say enough good things about this sweet couple. In her maid of honor's toast she said Sarah made you feel like you were a better person by simply having her in your life and I could see how that was so true. She really was a dream bride to work with!

Thank you to all our wonderful vendors who helped us pull off such a fun wedding.

Stacy Cross Photography- http://www.stacycross.com/
Reception Venue- http://www.thetaylormansion.com/
Crave Catering- http://www.crave-catering.com/
Cupcakes- http://www.michellespatisserie.com/

Florist- Gary Evans with It Can Be Arranged

Many Blessings to you Matt & Sarah!

Stay Warm,

Kristi

DIY Wedding Inspiration

2011-01-18T12:35:00.000-08:00

I know that a lot of our brides consider themselves DIY brides and I think that is great! I really love to do all kinds of crafts and am always on the look out for cute crafts especially ones I can do with my kids. So I am a faithful reader of www.oneprettything.com and I was thrilled when I saw that they have started a spin off website called www.oneprettywedding.com. There you will find all kinds of wonderful handmade inspiration for your wedding.

Here is a peek at a few of their adorable DIY projects that you could include in your big day! Have fun looking and happy crafting!

Pictures from the Diamond Domain Soiree

2011-01-10T14:46:00.000-08:00

Thank you to all the brides who stopped by our room yesterday at the Diamond Domain Soiree. It was a great show and we enjoyed talking to everyone and hope to hear from you soon. We owe a big thank you to all the vendors who helped us pull off such an amazing room. We can't thank you enough!

Melanie Tipton with Last Petal http://www.lastpetal.com/
Tyler Schmitt with Mill Photography Studio http://www.millphotostudio.com/
Cindy Gehring with Paty Cat http://www.partycat.com/
Carla Schaefer with Nuptial Necessities http://www.nuptialnecessities.com/
Yara Castelan with Unique Decor by Yara http://www.uniquedecorbyyara.net/

Here are a few pictures from our room that I took on my phone. They are not professional by any means but I wanted you to see how fantastic it all turned out.

Diamond Domain Bridal Soiree

2011-01-06T12:21:00.000-08:00

We are thrilled to be participating in the Diamond Domain Bridal Soiree this weekend at the Westin Hotel. This is a brand new show and is Austin's only luxury bridal event.

For more information please visit www.austinweddingday.com

New Year; New Beginnings

2011-01-05T15:05:00.000-08:00

This New Year is bittersweet for me....In October, I received the wonderful news that I am expecting triplets. Unfortunately, my unusual pregnancy has brought another chapter in my life to an end. With the beginning of this year, I'm proud to announce that Kristi Treadwell will be taking over BAE. I could not have asked for a better replacement!

Kristi is coming to us from one of the top wedding planning companies in the Austin area, Barbara's Brides. She was a lead planner for Barbara for three years and before that, she got her start in the business by working as a planner for Thurman's Mansion. Kristi has been certified through Weddings Beautiful and she is a board member for Nuptial Essential Association for Wedding Professionals. I'm very fortunate to have someone as professional and amazing as Kristi taking over and I honestly wouldn't trust anyone else.

How to Avoid Disasters: Cakes

2010-09-27T06:43:00.001-07:00

So, the majority of my brides are on a budget...But how do you know if you are really getting a great deal or if your vendor is pulling one over on you. Take a look at these disaster cakes; it just might make you think twice about the baker you are using.

What they wanted:

What they received:

What they wanted:

What they received:

I wish that I could say this never happened to one of my brides! How do you avoid this happening to you? First of all, make sure that you see cakes that the actually baker that is working your wedding actually created. You might even want to name that person in the contract and agree on an emergency situation, so that if something does come up and the contracted baker is unavailable, you are involved in the process of selecting a new person . Get recommendations from previous brides and previous vendors that have worked with this company. Vendor recommendations are often times overlooked, but you should always get the opinion of one of your vendors before you hire anyone new. Unlike brides, wedding professionals experience multiple people in the same field and they can give you an excellent insight on what you don't see. If you have a wedding planner use them! I have a strict one strike and you're out policy. If anything goes wrong, I will not recommend that vendor. There are so many times that brides have not asked me my opinion before they hired a vendor and it always makes me sigh when a less than perfect vendor is hired.

In conclusion, be cautious and do your homework! Coming soon.....How do Avoid Disasters: Entertainment.

Beat the Heat- Rae Cosmetics

2010-08-05T14:39:00.000-07:00

This past Thursday some of the Buon Affare Events team stepped out in style at Rae Cosmetics' Second Annual Beat the Heat Happy Hour! The event took place at Rae Cosmetics Studio, 26 Doors Shop, 1206 W. 38th St. #1206 in Austin.

The night out featured makeovers by the experts at Rae Cosmetics, a jewelry showcase by Limbo Jewelry, cocktails by Balcones Distilling, and some great vibe music cascading out of the speakers by DJ Aaron Montez.

Of course a few of us had to get some great makeovers- especially since Rae cosmetics is known for their waterproof (read- sweatproof in the hot Texas sun) makeup. The event made for a great girl's night and it was a great chance to sample some different products! Now we're looking forward to the 3rd annual Happy Hour at Rae Cosmetics!

The Big Day- Genevieve and Phillip

2010-07-26T06:43:00.000-07:00

On May 22 Genevieve and Phillip were married! They were such a fun couple adding great elements such as a red carpet photo shoot photoboth set-up by Studio 563 and AMAZING food, complete with a mash potato bar, goumet mac and cheese, and a selection of roasted turkey, salmon, prime rib, and much much more!

Elements:
BAE Planner- Rachel
Ceremony- St. Thomas Moore
Reception- Renaissance Glass Oaks Ballroom
Photography- Studio 563, Jenna Vincent
Florist- Bouquets of Austin, Becky
Hair/Makeup- Keep Austin Gorgeous
Rentals- Marquee
DJ- Altared Weddings- Christian
Videographer- Altared Weddings
Bakery- Simon Lee
Mariachis- Mariachi Estrella

To See or Not See

2010-07-24T12:57:00.000-07:00

The Bride stands ready at the back of the church. In a few moments, the doors will open and she will triumphantly walk down the aisle to meet her soon-to-be husband. The Groom anxiously awaits his Bride at the altar, tears fill his eyes and the anticipation grows.

Finally, the time has come. She floats down the aisle and embraces her Groom; he feels a few tears fall and looks around to make sure no one saw. But the room is empty. No guests, no attendants, no minister -- only a photographer, trying to stay out of the couple's way. Is this a bad dream? No, it's just a "first look".

More and more couples these days are opting to see each other before the ceremony begins. They meet either in the church, outdoors, or in a secluded room and catch their first glimpse of one another in a private, intimate way. Obviously, this is against tradition, but which way is best? Here are some of the pros and cons to help you decide if the "first look" is right for you.

First Look

This allows you to see each other for the first time privately, without anyone's eyes bearing down on you. It gets the first jitters out and gives you a chance to calm your nerves and reassure one another. It also allows for a great photo opportunity, as your photographer is able to get close enough to really capture those tender moments between the two of you. It also gives time for you to get some other shots together, saving time after the ceremony. However, even though you are able to relax, you will not have the excitement and triumph on your face at your actual ceremony. It can almost make your entrance at the wedding less formal and anti-climactic, as you will not have the normal emotions present on your face.

Waiting until the Ceremony

This is a moment your guests have waited for -- they want to strain their necks to see your expressions as you see each other for the first time. It is a precious, raw moment that is reverent and emotional. Brides who have already had a first look tend to be a little more casual about going down the aisle; therefore, your guests are teary-eyed and you are bouncing down the aisle giggling. It's also the traditional way of doing things. For generations this has been one of the most anticipated moments of a wedding. If you want to see that twinkle in his eye as you walk toward him during the ceremony, this is not the route for you. However, on the flip side, if you or your fiancée are extremely nervous, it can also distract from the beauty of this moment.

So whether you choose to lay eyes on one another beforehand or not, now you know you have options. Just make sure you've discussed this beforehand and your photographer / videographer is well aware of your plan. Regardless of the way you do it, you will want the moment captured on film forever.

Not Just for Movies Anymore

2010-07-12T15:44:00.000-07:00

One of my new favorite trends for weddings is the popcorn bar. Its a wonderful twist on the candy bar, but even better....Not only can you satisfy your sweet tooth, but those who crave salty can get their fill. I LOVE Popcorn Papa (http://www.popcornpapa.com/search.asp?classID=8). Check out their amazing flavors and their equally amazing prices!

Why You Need a Wedding Planner

2010-07-05T10:58:00.001-07:00

It used to be that wedding planners were only for the wealthy and famous, but with the typical wedding becoming more and more elaborate and with more couples paying for their own weddings while working a full time job, the necessity for wedding planners has boomed. Not only are planners helping to pull all the details together, they can also be a valuable resource for finding the right vendor for the right price....Many times, vendors will even give the brides a discount, just for using a wedding planner.
Don't take my word for it. Recently, I stumbled across this article:

Leslie Ramos & Jason Carmona
The key to Leslie and Jason’s flawless Texas wedding is simple—hiring a day-of wedding planner to ensure every detail went just right on their big day. While the couple planned the majority of the wedding, hiring Buon Affare Events relieved unnecessary stress during the wedding. “Rachel [our wedding planner] was the key to our wedding being a success. She ensured that the day flowed perfectly and that all issues were handled without it interrupting our evening. If anything went wrong, we certainly didn’t notice!” says the couple.

To share their vegan ethics with guests, Leslie and Jason not only perfected their reception menu, featuring pear-walnut empanadas and green apple and jicama stew, but also handed out Farm Sanctuary glasses to guests as favors, igniting many powerful conversations about the sanctuary and veganism after the celebration.

As unforgettable as the ceremony was, Leslie and Jason say they’ll never forget their honeymoon, sponsored by family and friends, which included a music tour of the UK, as well as a food tour of Amsterdam. “To this day and forever, we still find ourselves daydreaming of our three-week European honeymoon,” say Leslie and Jason.

The couple were an ordinary, everyday couple, that were busy with their careers and didn't have thousands and thousands of dollars to spend on a wedding planner, but decided to have somebody in charge so that they and their family could enjoy the celebration.
*Article written by By Melissa Feineman for Vegan Weddings, http://www.vegnews.com/web/articles/page.do?pageId=2252&catId=6

D-I-WHY

2010-06-28T11:59:00.000-07:00

Whether it is a surge of independence, the economic recession or just the desire for a unique wedding, so many soon-to-be-Mrs.' have become "Do-It-Yourself" (DIY) Brides. For those girls who are brave enough to do everything themselves, the internet can be a helpful, vast resource, or sometimes even harmful.

Helpful in that you have the world at your fingertips. Ideas abound, creativity flourishes and materials await. However, many girls find themselves overwhelmed at trying to make decisions during their wedding planning season and trying to be a DIY Bride only adds to the confusion. The internet can add to this stress by allowing too much information to be accessible. To simplify this process, a fantastic, one-stop-shop on the web is www.etsy.com. Here, brides can find everything from invitations to flower girl accessories. Since every item sold at Etsy is handmade by artists and artisans across the globe, the bride will not lose her individuality. She can come up with her own concept, design it and someone else will make it -- brilliant! It's DIY with a touch of sanity.

Here are some of the editor's top Bridal picks from Etsy:

Paper Flowers

Custom Stamps

Personalized Stickers

Custom Wedding Signs

Something Blue

Bridal Boot Camps: Do They Work

2010-06-21T13:44:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I know that I've already posted a piece about boot camps, but what can I say; not only do brides want to look amazing on the big day, but with obesity on the rise I gotta do my part to promote healthy living. And let's face it, you've got to workout to be healthy!
Recently my favorite personal trainer, Jake Bellonzi with Train with Jake, was featured in an Endless Beauty article. Click here to check out what he has to say and while you're at it, go ahead and scroll down to learn a little bit more about Jake.

Pintos Party

2010-06-14T11:42:00.000-07:00

I'm always on the look out for new wedding vendors to add to my repertoire and recently I had the pleasure of meeting Dan with Pintos Party. So they're not exactly the new kids on the block, but after seven years of experience, Pintos decided to merge their outstanding DJ services with a wedding supplies company.

So, what do you get when you merge a wedding supply company with a DJ Company......A really great wedding vendor that takes away the hassle of dealing with separate companies by supplying it all. Of course, Pintos Party offers hi-tech, digital DJ services with an impressive 300,000 song list and a 70,000 karaoke list. BUT they also provide bartenders, officiants, and rentals. This Round Rock based company starts at only $450 for three hours of service and they have nine DJ's on staff so they will always have a back up ready in case of any emergency. A great peace of mind for a busy bride!

Check them out for yourself: www.pintosparty.com

Bridal Events of Distinction

2010-01-26T08:03:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately, BAE missed the bridal extravaganza (first one we've missed since opening our doors in Sept. of '08), but this Sunday we will be at the Bridal Events of Distinction at the San Marcos Embassy Suites (South IH-35 - Exit 201 @ McCarty Lane). It will be our first time to participate in this event and it promises a great time for all, complete with a $45,000 Ultimate Wedding Giveaway. I encourage everyone to attend and stop by the BAE booth to receive some fantastic deals. For more information visit http://austinweddingday.com
On another note, here is a small preview of our booth. This was our set-up for the Bellisima Show that took place last Sunday.

My Favorite Things: 2009 Weddings

2010-01-18T03:44:00.000-08:00

Last month, inspired by Oprah, I put together a blog listing my favorite gifts and now that we've said goodbye to 2009, I thought it would be fun to list my top 5 favorite wedding ideas.

5) Charming Themes

This one's a little bit tricky. Believe me, I used it for my wedding and I didn't get it quite right. The trick is to pick an interesting theme that can inspire the look and feel of your wedding without taking on a life of its own. The problem comes in when the theme is so overdone and so overly incorporated in the wedding. I'll use my wedding for example...My theme was the cliche 'Winter Wonderland'. First of all, its hard to pull off in Texas and secondly, (although my wedding was wonderful) I went completely 'Winter Wonderland' crazy. I started to incorporate anything winter in every single detail. Instead of transforming the venue into a magical North Pole-like environment, I ended up with a hodgepodge mix of cheesy winter decor. Although I loved it then (it was before I became a pro), looking back I would have done things a lot differently.
Fortunately, I had a couple of wonderful 2009 weddings that did get the themed wedding right. The first one is Zena and Holland who had a charming elegant country theme. The theme was inspired by the venue; a private ranch located near Bee Caves. Here are some of the cute details that they incorporated.

The next example is Wendy and Nick's tropical wedding. Although, the weather was quite tropical (it was pouring rain), the ceremony, which had to be moved indoors, was still beautiful, because we had this lovely theme to pull from. The colors were perfect, the centerpieces were simple yet dramatic, and everything was nicely done. Of course, Wendy choose the perfect venue for her theme, Horseshoe Bay.

4) Unique Color Combos

Krystal and Brad's June wedding was definitely something to remember and the part that blew me away was the unique and amazing color details. Typically weddings have two main colors with an accent color mixed in. Krystal decided to dress all of her girls in black and then give them each their own unique color for their bouquets and their shoes. For the ceremony, all if these colors were combined in four large flower arrangements sitting on top of 10' pillars. The different colors were also used for the centerpieces. Each table had a different colored pomander ball placed on tall vases. Definitely a standout for this year.

To view images of this event please follow this link: http://www.thanksforthememories.biz/events.html and click on 'Crystal and Brad'.

3) Involving Your Guests

Susan and Steve definitely knew how to throw a party. Their wedding takes the cake for the most entertaining wedding of the year. What do you expect when the groom is a magician? To kick off the dancing portion of the evening, the couple had a dance instructor teach the guests Contra dance. (To learn more about Contra Dance, check out this link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Contra_dance) My assistant, Wendy and I participated in the festivities and I have NEVER had so much fun at a wedding and it seems like all the guests felt the same.

2) Dinner and a Show

From involving your guests to entertaining your guests....Jennifer and Kevin hired a professional dance team to perform during the dinner portion of their wedding. They did an amazing Michael Jackson montage and completely took the guests by surprise.

1) Its All in the Details

I LOVED all the unique details that Alicia and Blake included in their November wedding, but the butterfly place cards will forever be in my mind. The reason I picked this as my number one favorite wedding idea for 2009 was because it is so simple and so eye catching. Alicia ordered these from etsy.com and this is a wonderful example of how small, inexpensive details can add a large amount of drama and be as easy as placing an order.

Wedding Recipes:
1) Venue: Steiner Ranch Steakhouse, Photography: Aaron Blumenshine, Arbor: Buon Affare Events

2) Venue: Four Seasons, Photography: Thanks for the Memories, Dancers provided by Roxy Gage

3) Contra Dance Lesson: Austin Contra Dance

4) Photography: Thanks for the Memories, Florist: Brenda Abbott, Venue: Green Pastures

5) Zena and Holland- Photography: Photography by Blanca, Decor: Buon Affare Events
Wendy and Nick- Photography: Austin Photo Shoppe, Florist: Last Petal, Venue: Horseshoe
Bay Yacht Club

Congrats, Suzanne and Robert

2009-12-15T14:06:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, December 12 Suzanne and Robert were married at the TFWC Mansion. It was such pleasure working with this couple. Here is a glimpse of their wedding.As always, its a pleasure to work with Bob and the entire TFWC staff. Its such a unique and grand location to have any event!

The ceremony took place in the Georgian Room. I was able to work with one of my favorite photographers, Blanca Garcia with Photography by Blanca (note the shots in this post are from my iPhone. Blanca's work is MUCH better).

The ballroom looked stunning in black and bright pink decor!

The simple yet stunning florals were done by The Glass Fountain

I get to sample a lot of cake and it takes a lot to impress me. Lavender and Roses did a fantastic job! I only was able to capture the groom's cake (yes, that is an edible camara, complete with a picture of the bride and groom in the viewfinder).

Cute little details!

The happy couple.

I also have to give props to Primizie. The food was beautiful and extremely tasty. They're so great at their job, it makes my job just a bit easier.
All in all, it was a successful, beautiful event!

My Favorite Things

2009-12-07T10:09:00.000-08:00

Since it is the season for giving, I decided to post this week's blog on my favorite gift ideas. Okay, so maybe I was inspired by Oprah, but who isn't?
This year when picking out my presents I decided to focus on giving meaningful gifts that help out the economy and the overall planet Earth.

The majority of my presents came from http://tenthousandvillages.com. You can find absolutely wonderful gifts at amazing prices here, but the really cool thing about this site is that they, "work with over 130 artisan groups in more than 38 countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America.... As one of the world's oldest and largest fair trade organizations, [they] build long-term relationships with artisans that are based on mutual understanding and respect. Fair trade enables artisans to earn a fair wage and provides the opportunity for a better quality of life," (Ten Thousand Villages. 2009. 7 December 2009. http://www.tenthousandvillages.com). Not only is it great to know that you are contributing to a wonderful cause, but there's just something about giving a handmade authentic gift that is not mass produced.
Another big gift idea for this season.....Buying presents from small businesses instead of big name, national chains. Nothing against Walmart, but did you know that when you contribute to a small business it improves the quality of the economy substantially more than that of a chain. One of my favorites is http://etsy.com (which many brides know about). I just can't get enough of Sweet Life Paper (http://www.sweetlifepaper.com), which I found on Etsy! They have the cutest personalized stationary and wonderful customer service to boot! Austin is an amazing city to carry out the idea of contributing to small business gift ideas. We are very fortunate to have wonderful and distinctly Austin shops around every corner. One of my personal favorite things to do is shop the jewelry stands (or any of the quirky stores) on South Congress. Not only are you contributing to small businesses, but you are also helping the local economy.
Face it....The elderly are very difficult to shop for. If your grandparents are anything like mine, they have lived a long, amazing life and have just about every kind of trinket to prove it. Last year I decided instead of contributing to their collection of things that they really don't need I would donate to a certain charity for them. Last year I decided on Save the Children...This year I'm going with Habitat for Humanity. I'll write them up a letter and explain the contribution. They absolutely love it!
Well, I hope this article inspired you and helped you to find some meaningful gifts this year!

Keeping in Shape

2009-11-21T06:47:00.000-08:00

Whether trying to fit in your wedding dress or you just want to be healthier, it is always great to exercise and eat right. Not only will you look great, but you'll feel great, as well.
I am always looking for wonderful businesses that I can refer to my brides and until recently, I had never come across a great personal trainer. I had the pleasure of meeting Jake Bellonzi at none other than one of my weddings and when he asked me whether I had a boot camp that I referred, I could honestly say no. Being the professional that I am, I made him aware that it is not so easy to make my preferred vendors list. First, I have to see you in action and second, you have to be exceedingly good at your trade. Well, needless to say, Train with Jake qualified for the list.
If your looking to get in shape or stay in shape, you should definitely check him out. His approaches are challenging, yet accomplishable and he motivates you to do well without being a drill sergeant. Not only is his pricing better than the typical gym memership, but he will also provide you with nutritional advise and give you personalized attention so that you are not wasting your workout by doing all the exercise incorrectly. I encourage everyone to check out his website (http://trainwithjake.com) and get involved with his boot camps.

Chic in the Heart of Texas

2009-10-31T09:36:00.000-07:00

This Tuesday, Kristi and I had the pleasure of attending a dinner at the Driskill put on by NEAWP (Nuptial Essentials Association of Wedding Planners). The key note speaker was none other than the amazing Colin Cowie; event planner for the stars. It was such a wonderful and educational night. It was absolutely amazing to see how Colin converts an ordinary venue into a magical space. To learn about Colin Cowie go to www.colincowie.com. Here is a photo of Kristi and me with Colin taken by the fabulous Laura with Anthology Photography.

2009-10-16T10:34:00.000-07:00

Tips on How to have a Low-Stress, Successful Wedding

2009-10-09T09:10:00.000-07:00

One of my most asked questions is what makes a wedding successful. Here is the advise that I give my brides.

1) Hire The Right Vendors

Your vendors are going to make or break your wedding. If you are not using a wedding planner's preferred vendors list, you should really do your homework. Talk to past brides, read reviews on the Knot, meet with the vendor before hiring, have a list of questions of things that are important to you. If you are using a reputable wedding planner's vendor list, make sure you ask the planner which vendor would be the right choice for you specifically. They should be able to point you in the right direction, but be sure that the planner has worked with these vendors and is not suggesting them because they get a kick-back. I highly suggest hiring a professional band or DJ. They will be front and center and they will determine whether your guests have a great time or whether they leave early.

2) Have Everything Done a Week Before the Wedding

This means that you should not be purchasing things the week of your wedding, you should not be calling and confirming vendors the week of your wedding (that's your planner's job), and you should have all responsibilities assigned and all of your friends/family aware of their responsibilities (i.e.vehicle that will be taking the gifts). All of the personal items (guest book) and decor that you are providing should be packed neatly in labeled boxes and handed to your planner or delivered to the reception site the day before the wedding. This will ensure that nothing is left behind in a rush to get everything completed and that all of the decor is placed in the proper place on the day of the wedding. The week leading up to the wedding should be spent with friends and family; not trying to put together last minute plans.

3) Relax, Have Fun, and Realize the Significance of the Day

Not everything is going to go as planned, but if you keep in mind that no matter what, this is the day that you will be marrying the love of your life, you will be able to keep the meaning of the day in perspective and enjoy the wedding. Also, be able to relinquish the control over to the wedding professionals. They do this every week and know what works and what doesn't. You will not be able to relax if you are trying to manage them and they won't be able to do their job to the best of their abilities.

If you keep these few tips in mind, you should have a blast on your day, no matter what life throws at you!

Credits:
Top Photo- Photography by Blanca, Funky Old Soul (Band), Olden Lighting
Middle Photo- Sledd Photography, Bouquets of Austin (floral arrangements)
Bottom Photo- Crosswhite Photography

Update

2009-10-02T08:10:00.000-07:00

I know, I know.....Its been awhile since I've last updated, but I'm back and after a BUSY couple of months, I've got so much to post. Let's start with an update of Buon Affaré Events. First of all, here is a glimpse of some of our weddings that we've been busy with:

Alisha and Chad's Wedding, Temple CAC and First Baptist Church of Belton

Crosswhite Photography
Catering by Las Casas

Heather and Robert's Wedding, Phillip's Event Center

Photography by Scott Sprague

Flowers by the Glass Fountain

Austin Wedding Jookbox for DJ

Catering by Crave

Cake by Michelle's Patisserie

Regan and Brian's wedding, Vintage Villas

Flowers by Bouquets of Austin

Cake by Michelle's Patisserie

DJ Complete Music

Photography by Sledd Photography

The Do's and Don'ts of DIY-Artical 2: The Don'ts

2009-06-15T10:37:00.000-07:00

Doing things yourself is a great way to personalize your wedding and save money, but what is appropriate for you and your family to take on and what projects will haunt your dreams and make your perfect wedding a disaster waiting to happen? Inspired by an article on theknot.com, here is a guideline to steer you in the right direction.

The Don'ts

The Cake- I think this one's a no brainer....it is SOOO easy to mess up a cake and SOOO difficult to fix it. There are so many stressers concerning taste, decorating, and transporting the cake that its just not worth it.

Photography- Photography along with videographery are the lasting impressions of your special day. Its important to get all of the shots that you need to remember every last detail. The only way to guarantee this is to hire the pros.

Coordinating- Your wedding is all about you! How can you be the guest of honor and the coordinator at the same time? Doing the coordinating yourself does not give you the oppurtunity to relax and be the bride. Instead of getting your makeup done, you will be wondering if your florals arrived on time. Not to mention that coordinators will be able to set-up and breakdown. Who wants to work on their wedding day?

Centerpieces- Okay, so I don't completely agree on this one. I think it is perfectly acceptible to do candle centerpieces and stems in vases. Anything that can be done before the wedding and set out by your coordinator is fine (especially if they supplement the big extavagant floral arrangements). With that said, you should leave large arrangements or anything else more complicated to the pros. Its just too much work for you to have to worry about.

Caterering- I think this one's another no brainer and most facilities will not allow you to do this. There is to much risk of contamination. Also, what it the food runs out? Who will be taking care of the serving and the bussing? Who will clean up and put away the left over?

Music- I've mentioned this serval times, but it doesn't hurt to say this agian. Your entertainment is your most important vendor. Your DJ or band will make or break the party. They get your guests dancing and enjoying everything and they will make your wedding memorable. They know how to make announcements, direct your guests, and cover awkward moments. They will also be able to judge the crowd and cater towards their likes. If there's something that doesn't work, they can quickly change it and get the party going again. Not so with an iPod.

For different ideas on the same topic go to
http://wedding.theknot.com/wedding-planning/diy-do-it-yourself-weddings/articles/diy-wedding-dos-and-donts.aspx

Leslie and Jason's Wedding

2009-06-05T08:26:00.000-07:00

On March 28, 2009 Leslie and Jason were married at the beautiful Texas Federation of Women's Club Mansion. It was a wonderful celebration with an antique Spanish theme.

The ceremony took place in the Georgian Room. Rose petals lined the aisle and two alter arrangements added to the simple elegance of the room. Pastor Mike Clawson did a wonderful job with the ceremony.

The ballroom was decorated with red roses, cardinals, and antique silver vases to add to the antique Spanish feel. All the decor was actually done by Leslie and her family. Of course, we were there to set it all up.

Wonderful food was important to the Carmona's and Ecstatic Cuisine did an amazing job. Everything was vegan and it turned out spectacular.

The cake was done by CoCo Paloma. It was absolutely perfect; a hard fete using vegan butter cream.

Amanda with Whitney Lee Photography did a fantastic job with the pictures. I just love this shot of Leslie right before she walked down the aisle. You can actually see all the emotion and anticipation. Beautiful!

Dearcharli Photography

2009-05-11T09:02:00.000-07:00

Part of my job as a wedding planner is to know all the different vendors that are in the Austin area. At events for people in the wedding industry, I am constantly looking for unique vendors that have something more to offer brides than just the ordinary. That is how I met Alecia Cooper, owner and photographer of Dearcharli Photography. Alecia's distinctive view on how she connects with her couples and creates their own individual love story immediately set her apart from other area photographers. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Alecia to discuss her unique views on wedding photography and much more. Here is what she had to say:

Weddings are an event, but they are about the people most of all. I want the people to be the focus and not the happenings. This is why I call my style editorial rather than photojournalist. Journalism is too impersonal. I tell a story with images and incorporate my own perspective, but I also get to know my clients and make sure their personality is represented.

I always have a consultation before an engagement session so I can get to know the bride & groom better. During the meeting I figure out a location that is more than just a pretty place for pictures; it is a location that is meaningful and reflective of the couple. For instance, one of my recent shoots was at Peter Pan’s Mini Golf because that is where the couple had their first date.

Capturing the image is only the beginning of photography for me. Taking the photo and what you do with it afterwards are equally weighed. I believe that photography is much more than a digital photo left on your computer; it should be displayed and not necessarily in a frame.

My albums & Save the Dates are never templated. I do

not outsource to album design companies so the bride doesn’t have to worry about having a cookie-cutter album. Plus, the client is more in control of the design process. They can be as particular as the

y want!

I am a big Do-It-Yourselfer. When I see something I can recreate and that is unique and my clients would like- I learn to make it. I can silk-screen invitations, make magnets,

and even have custom photo jewelry made. If I can’t do it myself, I find someone who can. And I’m always looking out for the newest vendors so I can provide an in

novative product line.

I enjoy what I do; it fits me. I am an artist. I am a storyteller. I am a photographer.

For more information about Dearcharli Photography please visit www.dearcharliphotography.com

The Dos and Don'ts of DIY- Article 1: The Dos

2009-04-24T06:32:00.000-07:00

Doing things yourself is a great way to personalize your wedding and save money, but what is appropriate for you and your family to take on and what projects will haunt your dreams and make your perfect wedding a disaster waiting to happen? Inspired by an article on theknot.com, here is a guideline to steer you in the right direction.

DIY Dos:

1) Wedding Day Makeup:
Many of my brides are very leery about having a professional do their make-up. Who wants to look like a completely different person on the day of their wedding? Another option; have a trusted friend do your make-up for you.

2) Ceremony Decor:
Many times the ceremony site is already beautiful without additional decor. For a church you may only want to mark a few pews with ribbon and stems. You can even do mini pomanders (stay tuned for a DIY pomander post). If you have an outdoor ceremony nature is your decor. I would define the aisle with large candles in cylinders, but a lot of decor is not necessary. For anything more I would leave it to the pros. I can't imagine a bride in a tree hanging flowers and votives three hours before the wedding. You should definitely include this decor in the reception area. Designate someone to transport before hand to make sure this task gets done.

3) Your Favors:
The work can be done a month before the wedding and this can easily add a personal touch. Procrastinators and busy brides beware: Creating favors can be laborious...I suggest having everything completed by two weeks before the wedding. You do not want to spend your last night of being a single women cutting, pasting, and filling favor boxes!

4) Your Invitations, Programs and Save-the-Dates:
Again, a project that will be completed months before the wedding. Now-a-days you can purchase price friendly invitation kits. I love the ones at Target! I also suggest vistaprint.com for save-the-dates, but remember to allow time for delivery.

For different ideas on the same topic go to
http://wedding.theknot.com/wedding-planning/diy-do-it-yourself-weddings/articles/diy-wedding-dos-and-donts.aspx

Stay tuned for Article 2: The Don'ts

Blog Special: Email your DIY ideas to info@buonaffareevents.com for a free hour on the day of the event if you are a new bride. If you are an existing BAE bride email your ideas and receive a free rental return. (Offer expires May 1, 2009. Not good with any other offer.)

Perez/Estrada Wedding

2009-04-09T14:19:00.000-07:00

On March 21st we were honored to coordinate the wedding of Teresa Perez and Erick Estrada at the beautiful Villa Antonia. Maria Bernal did a wonderful job with the photography, as you can see.

The ceremony was at St. Williams in Round Rock. Isn't it breathe taking?

The Glass Fountain did the florals.

Villa Antonia made a beautiful back drop for the reception.

Other vendors:
Dinner Music- Mariachi Esrella
Reception Music- Complete Music, Kit
Caterers- Sterling Affairs
Videographer- Video Shoppe
Cake Designer- Cakes 'n More
Ice Sculpture- Amazing Ice Design
Rentals- Marquee

Five Easy Ways to Save on Your Wedding

2009-03-13T06:43:00.000-07:00

In times like these we are all cutting back. But when it comes to your wedding how can you save without looking cheap? Here are five great tips for brides with champagne tastes on a beer budget.

1. Schedule your wedding during an off peak season, day of the week, or time:

Many vendors (venues especially) will give discounts to brides willing to schedule during slower times. Think its a funny idea to have a wedding on a Sunday? Well, that is actually the traditional time to perform wedding ceremonies. So you're set on having a Saturday event...Look into having one in the afternoon instead of the evening; you'll also find major savings during this time and you can think about serving a brunch (even more savings). If you're willing to be flexible with your date and time, it just might make the difference in actually having your wedding at the perfect venue.

2. Select a city owned venue:

In Austin, we are fortunate to have MANY beautiful city owned parks and recreation centers. A lot of the times these venues are a great steal. One thing to watch out for is that these sites are usually bare bone packages. It might take you (or your coordinator) a little more work in the end, but, if done correctly, you can select all your own (perfect) vendors instead of the venue selecting them for you, save a lot of money, and have a great and memorable party that is uniquely yours. (BAE does have a comprehensive list of venues including city owned parks and recreational buildings.)

3. Pass on the traditional champagne toast:

So you spend all this money, pour all this champagne, and nine out of ten of the guests take two sips and then leave the rest. You would be astonished with how cost affective it is to just have the guests toast with what they are drinking. Not only do you save money on the bubbly, but your caterer can cut back on servers, saving you even more.

4. Skip the grooms cake:

Okay, so maybe my bakers don't like this idea, but did you know that having a groom's cake is totally a southern tradition? If you ask a bride in California what flavor her groom's cake is, she would look at you like you just sprouted antennas. If you're set on having two different flavored cakes, try having two different layers on your wedding cake.

5. Hire a wedding planner:

Many people know that a wedding planner will save you time, but did you know that a good wedding planner will also save you money. Many times other vendors will actually seek out a wedding planner and offer them savings to pass on to their brides. Recently, I was able to offer one bride a videography package for free. Not only did that eliminate the cost of my services, but it also left her with some extra money in her pocket.

Something that I tell my brides that they might not want to completely save on is music. Either your DJ or you band have complete control of the entire reception. I guarantee that your guest will not remember the flowers that you had, but they will remember if they had a blast. The best way to assure a good time is to have a professional in charge of your music.

For other great tips, schedule your free initial consultation (FREE- a word that is not heard too often in today's economy.)

Making Dreams Reality

2009-02-10T13:26:00.000-08:00

At Buon Affaré Events, we believe that every bride deserves a wedding planner and we are very passionate about this viewpoint. In today's economy, many people are finding themselves in positions they never imagined they would be in. Every year, we meet with brides that have a genuine need for a wedding planner, but because of their financial situation or unforeseen emergencies this need is not fulfilled. As a response, Buon Affaré Events has developed a program for engaged couples in a loving relationship with financial or emotional issues. One couple will be awarded a perfect planning package developed specifically for them. Please send your touching story to info@buonaffareevents.com. We are currently looking for a 2010 wedding to award to a deserving couple.

Design on a Shoestring

2009-01-29T07:23:00.000-08:00

Well, of course you know about our wedding planning services, but did you also know we can help you out with design? Whether you need more candlelight or would like some simple floral pieces we're here to help.
Our designs are created as another way to save you money. We will help you supplement your large arrangements and your personal bouquets designed by a professional florist with candle centerpieces and simple (but dramatic) floral centerpieces. Our philosophy...Use less flowers in an eye-catching way. This will create a stunning centerpiece and save you money!
Like our ideas? Check out some more of our designs at www.pbase.com/buonaffareevents.
Call or email (512.657.7209 or info@buonaffareevents.com) for a free consultation to receive a quote.

Bridal Extravaganza and DIY Guest Favors

2009-01-14T13:40:00.000-08:00

The Bridal Extravaganza this weekend was a big hit. Hundreds of Austin area brides showed up for great deals and one-stop wedding shopping.
One item that we included in our booth this year were pyramids filled with chocolate peanut butter cups. They were a huge hit and for all of those DIYers out there, this could be a great project for guest favors. Just make sure you have plenty of help (that's what bridesmaids are for); it can be time consuming (it took me one hour to make 10). Not quite the crafty girl, but still like these little treasure boxes? No problem...Buon Affaré Events can help you out. You supply all the materials and we'll do the dirty work for $1.50/favor. For all us those that are ready to roll up their sleeves and begin crafting, here are the instructions:

Creates 200 favors
Materials:
*100 sheets of cardstock or heavy paper
*30 yards of ribbon (I Love the ribbon from namemaker.com. You can have your names printed on it)
*Ad tech Glue Runner
*Scissors
*Box Cutter
*200 pieces of your favorite candy (or enough for 200 people)

Instructions:
*Print the template under pyramid template found on this link
http://buonaffareevents.com/services/. You can even add a message in the middle if you choose.
*Cut out the out line of each shape.
*Add a slit on the top of two opposite sides to thread your ribbon
*Fold on the inside lines (to make this step easier, I would trace over the dotted line with a box cutter, just make sure that you don't pierce through the paper.)
*Add glue to the tabs using the glue runner
*Paste together three side of the pyramid. Insert your candy and glue the last side in place.
*Thread your ribbon through the slits and tie.
Voula...You have perfectly shaped pyramid!

Finding the Right Wedding Music in 'The Live Music Capitol of the World'

2008-09-26T09:58:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I had the pleasure of attending a wonderful performance by the Mark Ritchie Band; a country western band that plays mostly covers like Alan Jackson and George Strait. Although they do not only play at weddings, they do a wonderful job with announcements and getting the crowd involved; a necessity for any musician in this industry, be it a DJ or live.

Out of all the vendors that you choose for your wedding, your reception musicians are one of the most important. They alone have the ability to govern whether your reception is successful or boring, whether your guest will have a good time or whether they will leave early. So the question is, how do you pick the right one? Especially since there is SOOO many to choose from in Austin. Here are a few tips to lead you in the right direction.

First of all, let the type of person you are and the type of reception you are wanting govern what type of musician you use. I've seen it all; from the typical DJ and/or band to an accordion player that weaved in and out of dancers while expertly playing his instrument. Don't be afraid to use creativity. For example, a reggae musician for a tropical themed wedding would enhance the feel and create a memorable event for your guests. The good thing about Austin is that you can probably find whatever you can possibly dream.

Whether you are going with a wedding pro or something a little less traditional make sure you check them out before hand. Go to one of their gigs, see them perform at another wedding, make sure that they have excellent equipment, and very importantly, make sure that they are comfortable making announcements and getting the crowd involved. Your reception will depend on it.

One thing that I always tell my brides...your entertainment is not a place you want to save. Keeping these things in mind will head you in the right direction when choosing your reception music.

Musicians Pictured form top to bottom;
Justin from Complete Music
Mr. Fabulous
Stafford from Complete Music

A Bit About Bridal Extravagnzas

2008-09-16T05:45:00.000-07:00

This Sunday was the Austin Wedding Guide Bridal Extravaganza and boy was it a wonderful event. Its a great way for brides to get a lot of information about every imaginable vendor in one building. With over 250 and exhibitors, as you can imagine, it can get a little overwhelming. Here's a couple of tips to help you get through the show in one piece and without going crazy.
First of all, try not to bring you fiancé. Lets face it, they really don't want to be there and they will complain most of the time. You as a bride can not accomplish all that is necessary when he's hurrying you to leave. If he does insist on going or you have no one else to go with, make sure that you give him tasks. Great responsibilities for the guys are researching cake bakers, caterers, and musicians. If he can take care of those, that will free you up to look at florals, wedding planners, and dresses.
Go to the show with an agenda. If you need a florist and a DJ, scope out where their booths are located and visit only those booths. If you look at everything, you may begin to regret your choices of vendors or sign a contract for a margarita machine that is not in your budget.
Print out address labels with your name, preferred form of contact, and wedding date. Many vendors will want this information; with labels you will avoid writing or saying it over and over again. Also, labels ensure that all of the information is correct and legible.
Lastly, bring a camera. With all the different vendors, its easy to forget the ones you really like. Take a picture of their booth and then you can pair up their brochure with their picture. Also, if you see a floral arrangement or cake design that you like, you can take a picture and send it to your florist or baker.
These shows are a really great way to save a little bit of money and get some really neat ideas. Most of the vendors will have show specials and, who knows, you might even win a vacation.