AbsolutelyBlooming ...creative ideas for socials and weddings.

Happy New Year! Happy New Wedding Year!

2012-01-23T16:02:00.015-06:00

First, I must thank all of my clients for an amazing 2011. I am humbled. Our business continues to grow and many of you are the reason for that. My referral business and partnership have been incredible. Thank you to all of the vendors we had the pleasure of working with to make brides, families, non profits and corporate clients happy.

2012 is starting out fast and I want to share with you the photos from our first open house of the year at Edison's Dallas.
It the place I love for anytime but, particularly for Saturday brunch weddings. It is windowless with great low lights and you think is nighttime. You can still have a full evening after the wedding. Thanks to Lauren, Brittney and Norman for a fabulous evening!

Peyton Turns 1

2011-12-12T17:31:00.011-06:00

I had the pleasure of being the floral stylist for Peyton's mommie and daddy, Shaunta and Phillip's wedding. This time we were the planners and designed the decor. Peyton had flowers too! It is no surprise that Shaunta started plannning Peyton's birthday party shorty after she was born. First let me tell you I has soooo much fun!

Shaunta had great ideas. I love DIY clients. They have fun making really cool specialty items. We had the party at their home. I took all the fun things that Shaunta and Sam (her best friend) made and they brought the party to life. From the candy table arrangements, to Peyton photo banners and the cupcake liner balls, and more it was colorful, well done, beautiful and lots of fun. The little people wanted to play and eat candy and cake. The adults had just as much fun as the children. Next year Peyton will have a destination party. Yes! The planning has already begun.

See more of Peyton's party at http://1stbirthdaypeyton.shutterfly.com

Shades of Blue

2011-11-15T21:00:00.031-06:00

In the world of weddings, style is in the eye of the beholder. When you hear what the selection of colors it is one thing, but when you see it is another. I love the odd and the unusual pairings when it comes to wedding colors. Shades of blue have been in vogue with our couples. The accessories, colored glass, ribbon, sand ceremony and linens were all stars. From navy blue to robins egg blue and the colors they were paired with always looked great. Groomsman managed to find the perfect pocket square, tie, or something to work with the must have color their bride selected. And sometimes the groom selected the colors. We had the blues and so will you! Enjoy!

I am a very tactile person when it comes to implementing the elements a client has selected. I have created a series of color style boards that are created with fabrics, findings, magazines, etc. that you can touch and move swatches and finding to see what colors look like together. Here comes the blue!

Meet Chantal Mazimpaka of Rwanda, Africa

2011-11-06T17:32:00.028-06:00

Peace Through Business
The Institute for the Economic Empowerment of Women

This is the third year I have been fortunate and humbled to host a businesswoman from Rwanda through the Institute for the Economic Empowerment of Women (www.ieew.org). I have learned in this life that you must help others. It is my passion to help others and women in particular. This project is a part of my international effort to help women from places we cannot imagine the challenges they face. The visit this year was from July 17 -24, 2011.

Meet Chantal Mazimpaka. Chantal is an event planner in Kigali, Rwanda. She owns the year old Guilgal Creations Company an events management company. She began as a wedding planner and her vision is to become the premier provider of event organization for private and corporate events. Weddings are a large segment of her business. Her sister was an IEEW participant last year who owns a boutique hotel and conference center where Chantal manages all of the events. I have included several photos and the names of sponsors and event professional who visited with Chantal.

Thanks to our gracious sponors:
Becky, Monica and the South Side on Lamar family- www.southsideonlamar.com.

Thanks to the following gracious event professionals who invited Chantal to their businesses.
Leigh Stem - AFR Event Furnishings
Maggie Rios and Jay Cooper - Ducky Bob's
Jennifer Sprinkle- Waxpaper Design House
International Special Events Society - All of the vendors who attended the June new officers installation in at eM.

The Cedars Social Gathering

The South Dallas Cultural Center
Printmaking Workshop

AFR Event Furnishings

Party City

The roof at South Side on Lamar

International Special Event Society
New Officers Installation

Jenn Sprinkle
Waxpaper Design House

Resource One Credit Union

Ducky Bob's Event Specialist
Maggie Rios and Jay Cooper

Fasclampitt Papers

Wedding

Unveiled The Ultimate Wedding Planning Event

2011-10-24T19:45:00.020-05:00

Unveiled blew into Dallas this weekend and show the bridal trends from the New York Bridal show. There were amazing wedding stylist from photographers, to bridal salons, venues, registry and much more. I am always excited to see the new work of the other wedding stylist.

Leigh Stem with AFR Event Furnishings and I designed a chic all white ceremony. AFR used their white Lola chairs and white leather benches to offer a sophisticated alternative to ceremony seating. It can also be used for dinner and lounge seating. It was a hit! I created our inspiration board to show wedding trends in white, bling, and silver findings. The 8 feet tall iron candelabra stands were dressed with skirts of white sparking tulle. The center of candelabra top was designed with white hydrangea, orchids, white polo roses and white phalaenosis orchids. The arms were wrapped in white dendrobium orchids with hanging crystals and hanging candles. It all looked amazing.

We are booking weddings for 2012 and would love to assist you in creating an amazing day!
214.417.2950.

This is the space we created.... Enjoy!

Trend Board

Ducky Bob's Jay Cooper carried the entrance decor. I loved the acrylic menu cards!

The inviting Unveiled entrance and sponsors.

Ducky Bob's Jay Cooper carried the entrance decor. I loved the acrylic menu cards!

Come by and see us!

2011-10-18T22:14:00.009-05:00

We will participating in the following events:

The Ultimate Wedding Planning Event
Unveiled
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Anatole Hotel Dallas
11am - 4pm
Tickets $15
www.unveiledweddingevent.com

The Orion Ballroom Open House
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
The Orion Ballroom
15th Floor
6pm - 8pm
www.theorionballroom.com

The Dallas Arboretum at Night 2011

2011-10-18T14:15:00.034-05:00

The Dallas Arboretum is growing and changing. That's a great thing. It gets more beautiful every day. The Arboretum at Night 2011 open house event for brides, wedding planners and corporate planners was a smashing success. The weather was close to perfect. Hot, sunny and clear! We were the event stylist for the Camp House where the creative wedding adventure started. Thanks to Michelle Lemay-Patten, Sheila Leggett, and Angela Rollins at the Arboretum and all of their staff for being gracious hosts. Special thanks to the participating creative wedding stylists who with us made a great first impression at the Camp House.
AFR Event Furnishings - Leigh Stem
A.Scribe Calligraphy -Andrea Estrada
www.bbjlinen.com
Dallas Arboretum
Ducky Bob's - Jay Cooper and Barbara McAfee
Dave Tanner Band
Tejano Brothers Catering

About the style! As I looked over the Camp House and the grounds it was screaming for color inside and out. The space is beautiful and to enhance its beauty I wanted the outside to pop off the lake back drop. The grounds are green with a spectacular view so orange was my color of choice. I thought that would bring the grounds to life. We included gold and glass accessories by Ducky Bob's (it's all fashion). From our hammered duo vases, tall cylinders with hanging cymbidium orchids, mirrored glass with baby's breathe, white box with the manzanita trees for well wishes to the amazing china from Ducky Bob's the style was regal, sophisticated yet fun and exciting. BBJ lines provided the linen and created several different chair ties. Tejano Brothers provided the tasteful delights and the Dave Tanner Trio serenaded our guests with an incredible mix of tunes.

Now for the photos from the day! Enjoy and contact any of the wedding stylists for more information and quotes.

Our floral and decor!

AFR Event Furnishings - Leigh Stem

A.Scribe - Andrea Estrada

Dave Tanner Band

Ducky Bob's - Jay Cooper

BBJ Linen

For more photographs from this event visit www.arboretumatnight2011.shutterfly.com

New York International Bridal Week 2012.... stay tuned!

2011-10-17T10:35:00.006-05:00

I love finding new designers and designers new to weddings. Stay tuned to my rising stars from the New York International Bridal Week. Let's start with some of the wedding super stars!

Randy Fenoli -" Say Yes to the Dress" and his new book It's All About the Dress

Mark Badgley and James Mischka

Mark Ingram (left) Mark Ingram Bridal Atelier

Darcy Miller Editorial Director and staff from Martha Stewart Weddings Magazine

Hot Weddings! Hot Summer!

2011-10-13T10:11:00.007-05:00

It was a very hot summer in Dallas, Texas. With more than 40 days of 100 degree plus weather, it is a wonder anyone wanted to come out. The weddings we had were beautiful. Some had outdoor elements and others made sure there was at least patio space for their guests that really wanted to escape the freezing tempertures inside. The styles were always beautiful! It was hot! The weddings were beautiful! We will feature each wedding in postings to come.

Enjoy!

Geraldine and McKenley

2011-06-05T16:54:00.013-05:00

Memorial Holiday is always a great time to have a wedding. It is a long weekend that allows the bride and groom to spend more time with family and friends. Many of them even turn it into a vacation. Geraldine is from Florida and McKenley is from the Grand Cayman Islands and their families came from coast to coast and islands. Hot and humid weather is no stranger to them. The Dallas Arboretum was the perfect place for their celebration. The McCasland Sunken Garden with its natural beauty, with the sounds of the steel pan and a light breeze from White Rock Lake the ceremony was perfect. The celebration on the DeGolyer Loggia was highlighted by the most spectacular sunset and the party got started.

Geraldine brought photos of the floral and decor she loved to our first vist. We took her queue and designed her day.The robin egg's blue and white were crisp, fresh, and beautiful on this clear day. White callas were everywhere. Starfish were used to signature their love for home. Elegant and beautiful is what she wanted and is what we designed. As the sun went down the, lanterns and cafe lights at the bar turned the DeGoyler Loggia into a party place. A good time was had by all! ... more photos to come.

These are the photos I made with my new camera. The professional ones will be posted from Knight Photography.

Thanks to all of the fabulous vendors:
The Dallas Arboretum
Pastor John Tyler
Knight Photography
Elena's Cakes
VirDIKo-Kevin Netter
Nicholas Bell - Steel Attitude
Anderson Lighting and Electric
Memories Films
S.E.A.T. by Design
Blue Diamond Limousines
Radisson Hotel
Gil's Elegant Catering

Royal Wedding!

2011-04-29T15:45:00.000-05:00

Kate and William's wedding was beautiful! I love tradition and attire. The hats, the suits, the tails, ties.... it was a royal fashion show as well. I am happy that we all were able to enjoy their union.

The sermon by Archbishop Cranmer was timely and wonderful. The entire sermon is something all brides and grooms should read. My number one nugget from the royal wedding ceremony is his sermon. I have put in bold the things that I think all of us should embrace. Enjoy! There's more to come.

The Bishop of London's Sermon
29th April 2011
“Be who God meant you to be and you will set the world on fire.” So said St Catherine of Siena whose festival day it is today. Marriage is intended to be a way in which man and woman help each other to become what God meant each one to be, their deepest and truest selves.

Many are full of fear for the future of the prospects of our world but the message of the celebrations in this country and far beyond its shores is the right one – this is a joyful day! It is good that people in every continent are able to share in these celebrations because this is, as every wedding day should be, a day of hope.

In a sense every wedding is a royal wedding with the bride and the groom as king and queen of creation, making a new life together so that life can flow through them into the future.

William and Catherine, you have chosen to be married in the sight of a generous God who so loved the world that he gave himself to us in the person of Jesus Christ.

And in the Spirit of this generous God, husband and wife are to give themselves to each another.

A spiritual life grows as love finds its centre beyond ourselves. Faithful and committed relationships offer a door into the mystery of spiritual life in which we discover this; the more we give of self, the richer we become in soul; the more we go beyond ourselves in love, the more we become our true selves and our spiritual beauty is more fully revealed. In marriage we are seeking to bring one another into fuller life.

It is of course very hard to wean ourselves away from self-centredness. And people can dream of doing such a thing but the hope should be fulfilled it is necessary a solemn decision that, whatever the difficulties, we are committed to the way of generous love.

You have both made your decision today – “I will” – and by making this new relationship, you have aligned yourselves with what we believe is the way in which life is spiritually evolving, and which will lead to a creative future for the human race.
We stand looking forward to a century which is full of promise and full of peril. Human beings are confronting the question of how to use wisely a power that has been given to us through the discoveries of the last century. We shall not be converted to the promise of the future by more knowledge, but rather by an increase of loving wisdom and reverence, for life, for the earth and for one another.

Marriage should transform, as husband and wife make one another their work of art. It is possible to transform as long as we do not harbour ambitions to reform our partner. There must be no coercion if the Spirit is to flow; each must give the other space and freedom. Chaucer, the London poet, sums it up in a pithy phrase:

“Whan maistrie [mastery] comth, the God of Love anon,
Beteth his wynges, and farewell, he is gon.”

As the reality of God has faded from so many lives in the West, there has been a corresponding inflation of expectations that personal relations alone will supply meaning and happiness in life. This is to load our partner with too great a burden. We are all incomplete: we all need the love which is secure, rather than oppressive, we need mutual forgiveness, to thrive.

As we move towards our partner in love, following the example of Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit is quickened within us and can increasingly fill our lives with light. This leads to a family life which offers the best conditions in which the next generation can practise and exchange those gifts which can overcome fear and division and incubate the coming world of the Spirit, whose fruits are love and joy and peace.

I pray that all of us present and the many millions watching this ceremony and sharing in your joy today, will do everything in our power to support and uphold you in your new life. And I pray that God will bless you in the way of life that you have chosen, that way which is expressed in the prayer that you have composed together in preparation for this day:

God our Father, we thank you for our families; for the love that we share and for the joy of our marriage.
In the busyness of each day keep our eyes fixed on what is real and important in life and help us to be generous with our time and love and energy.
Strengthened by our union help us to serve and comfort those who suffer. We ask this in the Spirit of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Here is the blog for Archbishop Cranmer: Examining Religo-Political Agendas With Politico Religious Objectives
http://archbishop-cranmer.blogspot.com/2011/04/royal-wedding-address-of-bishop-of.html

Congratulations to Kate and William!

2011-04-25T17:04:00.008-05:00

I am very happy for Kate and William. It certainly is an exciting time. As a planner I know this is a very stressful time for a bride and groom. Parents, friends, new in laws, spectators, and people you don't know have an opinion about what you are doing, not doing and anything else they think they should weigh in on. Can we all agree on that? I know they will manage to come through this with smiles and tears. I must tell you most of my brides are not very interested. Most are aware, but have their hands full with their own wedding. They say, "I am glad I am not Kate, this must be stressful to have the world watching and commenting on your every move". I spend my days as planner keeping them calm, focused and suggesting what to do when she and her mother disagree on a color or food or something. Like Kate and William everyone wants to put in their two cents.
It will be beautiful!

I know the wedding industry is very excited. I am! There will be several trend nuggets that will come from the royal wedding. The dress, invitations, decor, and more. The ability to watch it live online will be great. There are some venues that are on that page already for ceremonies in particular. This is our first world wedding in a very long time. I would hope we all will not spend so much time analyzing the wedding, but sending good wishes, love, and happiness. It is going to be fabulous. Most of all I want them to have fun.

Congratulations Kate and William!

The Wedding Experience!

2011-03-30T11:56:00.012-05:00

First, I'd like to thank all of our guests for attending the Wedding Experience. I appreciate your compliments, comments and suggestions. We are looking forward to the next event.

I think it is important for brides, grooms and their families to see a venue dressed for a wedding when possible. In many cases it is not possible and not allowed. I always suggest that a bride at least ask. What I have heard from brides is that sometimes photos do not do the venue justice and they want to see it in person. Point well taken. The Wedding Experience hosted at the Orion Ballroom certainly allowed its guest to see what a beautiful venue it is. My team and I designed and created the decor for the evening. I am a big fan of green and white. It is so crisp, clean, modern and a little bit sexy. What colors, style and design are you considering for your wedding? Email us at marion_absolutelyblooming@yahoo.com. Enjoy!

p.s. To see all of the photographs go to http://www.dropbox.com/gallery/25578277/1/For%20Marion?h=2820b2

For the Stylish Bride!

2011-03-20T12:29:00.002-05:00

This is a complimentary event and seating is limited.
Please rsvp to: artandstyleofweddings@gmail.com
No charge for parking
Location: Use google maps. Exit Beckley/ Bank of America Building/ Beckley and Zang

5 reasons we think you should hire a wedding planner!

2011-03-01T14:43:00.000-06:00

Why is this bride laughing? Because she hired a wedding planner!

Why is this groom smiling? Because Veronica hired a wedding planner!

Photos by Bludoor Studios

Meet Veronica and Jay!
Veronica is one of my assitants. When she got engaged she wanted to be the princess bride (as every bride should be). She had seen first hand how the wedding process was a bit more stressful for some of our clients who did not have planners. Veronica decided she was having no part of that. She and Jay had very busy schedules. They wanted to maintain their current lives as much as possible while the wedding was be planned. Their ceremony venue was the Janette Kennedy Gallery at South Side on Lamar and the reception at the Orion Ballroom. Veronica and Jay also wanted to not worry about the moving between the two venues. They are still smiling and laughing!

Celebrating YOU!
Your Story! Your Wedding! Your Style!

1-Wedding planners can help you translate your visions and dreams into a reality. After clipping and printing photos and articles, saving all kinds of items, and the list of your favarite things, a faboulous style emerges.
We want to assist you and your fiancé or partner, in creating a wedding or celebration experience that is about you.

2-Time is money and money is time. Wedding planners are the "super stars of information". This information will assist you in making decisions about your bottom line for your investment. At least visit a wedding planner for a consultation, even if do not plan to make that investment. They will provide you with the information that will start the process in the right direction. Wedding planners provide a variety of services with different investments. From full service, wedding day service and other specialty services most have choices to suit your needs and investment. Inquire and find a service that will work for you. Style, luxury, and resources are very personal. Decide what the most important things are for you and we will help you make it happen.

3-Wedding planners often become extenions of the bride and want this experience be as stress free as possible. Wedding planners become the middleman or middle woman for your family, friends, and vendors.
We believe there are always options and never NO.

4-Your wedding planning and wedding day will go more smoothly! You can enjoy your day. You can enjoy the little things. Your planner can answer last minute requests, field any changes, answer vendor questions, etc.
We want you to have fun, smile, laugh and have tears of joy throughout the process.

5-Wedding planners allow you to be a guest. This is your royal wedding, you are the royal couple and the celebrity couple. We want this to be all about you!
Our commitment is to provide you from idea to execution the highest level of service, professionalism and FUN in the process of creating a wonderful wedding or celebration experience. We are a Dallas based full service event planning and design production firm offering expert planning, incredible floral and decor for events grand or small. Services can be selected separately.

Let us keep you laughing and make you smile!

Unveiled - The Ultimate Wedding Planning Event

2011-02-28T16:34:00.001-06:00

PRESENTED BY The Wedding Guys

Matthew Trettel and Bruce Vassar have definitely put together a growing and fabulous wedding event... Unveiled. The Hilton Anatole was host to this beautiful event showcasing some of the Dallas Fort Worth's talented wedding professionals. From the entrance with the Texas Boys Choir to the fashion show and a special guest appearance by Syliva Weinstock the master baker and decorator, made this the place to be for the blushing bride and groom.

We had a blast! AFR Event Furnishing and I teamed up to create a space with none traditional furnishings. I love sleek and space. I love soft and romantic. I was a great event! Here are few photos of our space.

I thought this would be easy!

2011-01-24T10:54:00.005-06:00

I really had high hopes to write every day about wedding planning. It did not happen so here we are almost to February. I cannot believe it. I do promise to post at least once a week and hopefully more. I am committed.

YOU ARE ENGAGED! Congratulations! Thanksgiving to Valentine’s Day could be called the engagement season. The majority of engagements will take during this time… I want your wedding planning experience and your wedding day to be fun, fabulous and very low stress!

The wedding planning information highway is full of websites, books, blogs, and experts on the subject. There is no need to panic, however, do take a breath, get out a tablet or computer and starting making notes and taking notes.

My process starts with making sure couples know that the planning process is going be fun. We ask them what are the most important elements for their wedding day and planning experience. The list usually includes but are not limited to great food, reception location, dress, favors for the guest, a favorite song, a special tribute to family members that are not there, etc. Then we start the conversation about the investment that will be made for the wedding. I believe the earlier this conversation is had the easier planning can be. It is important that you spend wisely and by taking the time to think about what you want makes this much easier.

Our topics will include wedding style and formality, guests, date and location for the ceremony and reception, bridesmaids and groomsmen, your investment and what things cost, who pays for what, wedding insurance, marriage license, vendors, stationery, photography, videography, flowers, fashion and beauty, dress, music, registry and honeymoon, and everything in between.

If you have a question or comment, please email me at marion@absolutelyblooming.com.

HALL OF STATE www.hallofstate.com
FAIR PARK
DALLAS, TEXAS

Allison is getting married in July at a church and selected the Hall of State as her reception venue.
.... regal, dramatic, and beautiful!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2011-01-01T17:51:00.003-06:00

Congratulations! January 1, 2011 starts another fabulous year! From December 2010 to February 15, 2011 is engagement season. I will be posting everyday the month of January about wedding planning. I will be share interviews with newly engaged brides and grooms and wedding professionals. There are several people, places and the things to consider. If you have questions, please send me an email and I will answer them in my daily post. marion@absolutelyblooming.com.

Please join me tonight with Kym Keaton, Soflynmythirties the Blog Talk Radio Show www.blogtalkradio.com/soflynmythirtiesairs tonight @ 11PM CST. We will be discussing planning a wedding in your thirties, and maximizing your budget for that grand event large or small in 2011.... Call in 619-566-0967.

Happy Planning!

Wedding Planning and Blog Talk Radio

2011-01-01T09:49:00.000-06:00

Kymberly Keeton is my fabulous creative niece. She is a writer, journalist, artist, and most recently a blog talk show host . soflynmythirties (so fly n my thirties) features issues regarding women in their thirties. I was the first guest of the new year to discuss all things weddings. Kym asked some great questions. From planning to selecting vendors, we covered several topics. You can hear our conversation by clicking on this link www.blogtalkradio.com/soflynmythirties/2011/01/02/soflynmythirties-blog-talk-radio-show-3

Kym is single. She says past their professional lives, women in their 30's are talking about dating and marriage. Many young women are comfortable with being single and others are cringing at the thought of approaching forty and not close to marrying. I say patience is a virtue. Take your time and the right person will come.... so follow up with us with more conversations about weddings. Check out Kymberly's other shows.

http://www.soflynmythirties.webs.com

CELEBRATING YOU! Your Story! Your Wedding! Your Style!

2010-11-02T09:41:00.011-05:00

Krystal and Karl - Starting their story!

Here is a sneak preview of Krystal and Karl's wedding...first, this was her email after the wedding and this is why I love what I do!

Marion,

Sorry it took me so long to contact you about the wedding! I just had to tell you how fabulous everything was! You did an amazing job!!!!! We greatly appreciate all of you hard work and your creativity! The florals rocked!!! Thank you again! There was no way that we could have had a beautiful wedding without you and your staff! Again, from the bottom of my heart thank you!!

You are the Best!

Love,

Krystal and Karl

Krystal loves, loves, purple! From her flower selection... to the finished designs.

Lighting at the Orion Ballroom

2010-10-20T11:15:00.000-05:00

Hello All!

We enjoy assisting our clients create fun and wonderful socials and weddings. "Lighting sets the mood", says Kelvin Anderson of Anderson Electric and Lighting. He is right. Not only you can use it to change the look of the space, you can design different looks in one space or several spaces at a venue.

Dallas Arboretum Bridal and Corporate Stroll

2010-09-16T18:05:00.007-05:00

I love designing for open house at different venues. The Dallas Arboretum is one of my favorite. The grounds are incredible. There are so many gardens to have a ceremony and they all have their on personality. It is hard to believe you are in the Dallas city limits as you view the lake and the skyline.

I love color, texture, and elements! Coming from the fashion design world it all has the same style. Here is what we previewed at Rosine Hall. There were several amazing event professionals who made this event happen. Special thanks to the staff at the Dallas Arboretum for gorgeous grounds and spaces, Kelvin Anderson of Anderson Electric and Lighting who hung several fabulous chandeliers, Gil's Elegant Catering and Two Sisters Catering, Sweet Memories, Colby Logan and crew of Astounding Sounds and Harry of Harry Photo!

Enjoy!

Wasting No Time!

2010-09-14T11:34:00.008-05:00

We have grown quite a family of brides. Many of them have become a part of our extended family. Shaunta and Philip had a fabulous wedding in October and recently a fabulous baby shower for Miss Peyton. Peyton's mother, Shaunta was just as glamorous at the her shower as she was for her wedding day. I will share more about the wedding soon.....

Princess Peyton cometh....soon!

Wonderful Weekend of Weddings

2010-07-30T19:48:00.010-05:00

It is hot outside and we have had hot weddings inside! Last weekend at the Orion Ballroom we had two weddings with different looks. Both were beautiful. The smiles from the brides, grooms and their guests is what makes me happy and wanting to do more than asked. We will feature them both when we receive the photographs from the real photographer.

Elizabeth and Ron
Friday, July 23, 2010

Alexis and Antwan
Sunday, July 25, 2010

Institute for the Economic Empowerment of Women Gala and Graduation

2010-06-28T11:37:00.008-05:00

Tuesday, June 22, 2010 at the AT & T Windspear Opera House.

Here are a few photographs... Enjoy!

Dallas Mentors

Helping Others!

2010-06-20T17:10:00.007-05:00

Peace Through Business
The Institute for the Economic Empowerment of Women

I have learned in this life that you must help others. It is my passion to help women in particular, people locally and anywhere that I can. This project is a part of my international effort to help women from some places we cannot imagine the challenges they face.

Bonita Mwunvaneza joined me as my mentee through the Institute for the Economic Empowerment of Women (www.ieew.org), Peace through business project. This is my second year as a mentor. Bonita is the owner of Sugar an Spice Cookie Bakery. She traveled from Rwanda to spend a couple of weeks learning more about how to run and grow her cookie and cake business! Bonita was with me from June 12 -17 for fun and learning for the both of us. Thanks to our gracious sponors:
Becky, Monica and the South Side on Lamar family- www.southsideonlamar.com
Kristen at Tart Pastry Boutique and Stuido
Bronwen Weber at Frosted Art
Tina Danze
Doug Brown and his team at Food Beyond the Box
Barry Partos - Eatzi's
Patricia McCune - Michaels

Brownen Weber - Frosted Art www.frostedart.com

Barry Partos - Eatzi's www.eatzis.com

Doug Brown - Food Beyond the Box www.foodbeyondthebox.com

Kristen Massad -Tart Bakery and Studio www.tartbakerydallas.com

Wedding Dresses

2010-06-07T15:22:00.019-05:00

Coming from a fashion design background I love, love, love looking at the wedding dresses my brides have selected. From the color, fit, to the smallest details they have been fabulous. Beading, off the shoulder, tucks, pleats, pick ups and more... to just simple with no frills. They have all said that with such amazing choices, sometimes making a selection can be difficult. They all found the "IT" dress. Also, the head designs. Many brides do not wear their veil over their face, however, the birdcage is back and looking very good. Next up Bridesmaids dresses.

Photography-me

Photography thanks to Ruby Barron.

Photography thanks to www.table4photography.com.

Photography marion (the great photos are not back yet!)

Photography thanks to www.vimstudio.com.

Southern Weddings daily blog - Deziree + Jon

2010-04-20T17:51:00.016-05:00

What a wonderful way to start the new year...marrying the love of your life! Tara Wilson of Tara Wilson Events was the planner for Deziree and Jon. She and her team orchestrated a fabulous wedding. Designing floral was so much fun for Deziree. Southern Weddings daily blog published this inspired wedding with great elements.

Lara Casey the Editor-in-Chief has put together a fabulous team to share all things weddings. The print magazine is wonderful as well. If you are looking to be inspired, need resources, or looking for the next trend, check out Southern Weddings daily blog and magazine.

Deziree + Jon Part I
Click above to see the entire page.

New Year's Eve

Deziree + Jon Part II
Click above to see the entire page.

Enjoy!

Ayra and Je'Kel Foster

2010-04-14T08:54:00.011-05:00

Around this time last year I was deep into planning the wedding and designing floral for Ayra and Je'kel. The only hitch was they were in Oldendburg, Germany. Je'Kel plays pro basketball in the Euroleague. Check out his blog: www.jekelfoster.blogspot.com. Ayra came home to Plano to do most of the planning. This was a very special wedding for me because I have known Ayra and her family since she was a little girl. Her father is Ron Springs a former Dallas Cowboy. Ron has been in a coma for almost 3 years. Her mother Adrianne is a breast cancer survivor. With grace, style and lots of composure Ayra and I designed a beautiful wedding. Je'kel arrived the day before the wedding. He hit the winning shot for his team to become the German League champions the night before. Talking about jet lag! Find out how she and Je'Kel met.

Je’Kel and Ayra
We were both attending college at Ohio State University. It was Spring Quarter and it was during OSU's Heritage Festival. I was out at one of the events with my girlfriends and Je'Kel was also there with some of his friends. My friend Ashley Jenkins (bridesmaid) stopped to talk to one of Je'Kel's basketball teammates. I noticed Je'Kel was smiling at me and pointing. I figured he was just full of jokes and began to walk towards Ashley. By this time Ashley was dancing with Je'Kel's teammate. Je'Kel and I started dancing too since our friends were both occupied. We danced the night away and exchanged phone numbers. We became great friends and talked on the phone for hours. We later started a relationship and the rest is history.

Je'Kel played his second professional basketball season in Paris, France. I had spent some time there visiting him and came back home to Dallas. Je'Kel got to go home to Natchez, Mississippi for the Christmas holiday. He called me on Christmas Eve and told me he wanted me to be his wife. I was shocked because I didn't know if he was serious. Then he told me to start looking for engagement rings. I flew back to Paris on New Years Eve, and during the next few weeks we looked for rings. We found one that we both loved and he "officially" proposed Valentine's Day 2008 in Paris, France.

Je'Kel was excited but exhausted....after his winning basketball championship game, long flight from Germany and going none stop from the time he got off the plan. He arrived just in time for the rehearsal.

Tony Dorsett is Ayra's godfather.

Special thanks to people make magic happen:
Lighting- Colby Logan Astounding Sounds
Cake- Candy Haven
Catering-Gil's Elegant Catering
Photographer- Charlotte Caldwell
Singer - Rick James
DJ- Lewis Milton

Beautiful dresses, great people and great service!

2010-03-31T08:50:00.003-05:00

The White Gown Showroom Opens

2010-03-29T15:41:00.006-05:00

Debra Powell has opened at her new location in the Dallas Design District and with a new name
The White Gown Showroom

1107 Dragon Street
Dallas, Texas 75207
214.774.4696

In addition to several fabulous lines, Debra will be featuring gowns designed for brides size 18 to 28.
Also remember, Debra offers alterations and sample gowns. Spread the word.
Congratulations Debra!

The Enzoani Trunk Show is going on right now until April 25th.
Enter the Plus Size Model Search!

Hilton Bella Harbor

2010-03-22T09:56:00.015-05:00

Hilton Bella Harbor
2055 Summer Lee Drive
Rockwall, TX 75032
(214) 771-3700

I apologize for the extreme tardiness in posting. My goal is to post at least once every week or more. We have lots of tips and beautiful weddings to share with you large and intimate.

We loved the Hilton Bella Harbor in Rockwall, Texas so much that we decided to participate in the Lakeside Bridal Show. It is beautiful. From the layout of the hotel, to the wonderful open spaces, and its location, the Hilton Bella is an excellent choice for a venue on the water. It actually feels like you are somewhere other than Rockwall, Texas. If you are wondering where Rockwall, Texas is located, it is about 20 minutes from downtown Dallas out I-30. The hotel can be see from the freeway. There is plenty of parking and shops nearby for shopping. It is a must see!

POSH Couture Rentals is posh!
www.poshcouturerentals.com
972.818.3200

Check out their wedding trends for 2010. Posh hit a home run with this combination.
Bling is in! Table linens, napkins, chairs, chargers, glassware and flatware... the use of one, some or all of these items can enhance the look of your wedding. Check out the March issue of Martha Stewart Weddings, REALITY CHECK Luxe on Loan which goes into details about fabulous rentals.

I love monochromatic... one color, several different flowers. The white flowers pop paired with the gold and black.

Meet Kelvin Anderson of Anderson Electric and Lighting
972.288.6505
After kicking and screaming Kelvin has discovered that he loves lighting. As a master electrician, Kelvin brings a different skill set to event lighting. The chandelier he hung for this show was awesome. He is building a huge library of all kinds of fabulous chandeliers, hanging and standing decorative lamps, and even designing several light fixtures for clients to choose from. Kelvin thinks uplighting, monograms and pinspotting are great, however, he wants a bride to have some extra to enhance her wedding.

Creating the day with details!

2009-08-02T08:40:00.003-05:00

As the creative director for AbsolutelyBlooming! I will begin to post often on details. Celebrating you and your guest! Certainly the wedding day is about the bride and groom, however, it is also about creating an experience for your family and friends that come to share an important day in your life. You want your guest to remember what at great time they had and the details that enhanced the day. It should start with your announcement to your thank you notes!

A Creative Pair!

Beth is an interior designer and Kevin is an art director. Kevin designed the motif which is seen throughout. Bell Invito letterpressed the invitations and most the other wedding signature pieces.

The space was set for the ceremony and dining for the reception. The guest tables were completely dressed with the program, favor, and a card that asked for wishes to the the bride and groom that would include a photo.

The cards with the well wishes were dropped in the box below. Although pencils were attached the card at the table, extra pencils were available.

The placecards included the selected motif.

The program!

The table runner was designed with wallpaper (the bride is an interior designer). The favor presented in a red box with an explanation. Program. Well wish card.

More about Brooke and Tanner

2009-08-02T08:10:00.004-05:00

Brooke and Tanner!

The Empire Room is one of my favorite places for great wedding photography. Brooke and Tanner have great shots from different rooms and on the street. Brooke's bridesmaids selected different styled dresses in the same color...stunning. The candle screens the bride selected created a wonderful romantic backdrop for the ceremony. Enjoy!

Michel and Seyi and Hot Summer Colors!

2009-07-02T23:23:00.007-05:00

How We Met (According to Michel)

Technically, the first time we went out we didn't actually meet. My sister had come to visit me in London while I was on a six-month consulting assignment. The day before she was to return to Dallas, one of my co-workers agreed to take us out for the evening. He was accompanied by two friends, one of whom was Seyi. Now, while we were all geared up for a fun evening, we ran into a few small road blocks – including getting lost while trying to find our destination only to discover it no longer existed! We ended up having a blast that evening, not only because there was a back-up plan, but also because in driving around for 2 hours, Seyi and I realized that we had so much in common…including a live performance we'd both attended two months prior.

This initial meeting, however, didn't automatically translate into a first date. In fact, I was almost convinced that I wouldn't see him again given that we hadn't exchanged contact information. He had, however, told me about his website. I found the site, and spent the next 3 or 4 days working up the nerve to email the site owner. I finally managed to send a very polite, carefully composed three-line message indicating that I'd enjoyed meeting him and really liked the site. To my surprise, he replied later that day! After a few email exchanges, each of which I had to carefully dissect because he would occasionally throw in a few phrases that I didn't understand (such as "going for footy"), he asked me on our first date - the Nottinghill Carnival scheduled for the upcoming bank holiday.

Funny enough, I almost cancelled our first date because I was fighting a cold. It was the last bank holiday of the year, though, and since I'd been stuck in bed all weekend, I decided I had to leave the house...not to mention I was really looking forward to the date :-D We met at Paddington Station, and both of us were obviously very nervous. Apparently, Seyi had done a bit of research on the path of the carnival and had pinpointed the perfect place for us to watch; however, he'd forgotten all of this at home in his haste to leave. We had a great time at the carnival and agreed to meet up again soon. Later that day, he called to ask if he could stop by the next day to say a quick 'hello' (and by 'stop by' he meant make the 1 hr trip to central London). He came by the next day to bring me long- stemmed sunflowers and a bag of clementine oranges to help me get over the cold....and I've been smiling ever since.

The Proposal (According to Seyi)

The plan was to make sure I proposed to Chel in Accra on New Years Day.

Considering we were running a bit late to catch the flight to Accra from Lagos (and I was not feeling too well earlier on that day) I was starting to worry about the execution of my plan.We managed to get on the flight and get into what was a lovely sunny day in Accra - the signs were looking good. An additional element in the plan was my desire to have a 'man to man' chat with Chel's Dad and I kept wondering when I'd be able to talk to him without Chel being there.

The 'Sanford and Son' boxset and a trip for some live nighttime highlife/hiplife on the beach, though thoroughly enjoyable, meant I was losing my opportunity to have the chat and the day was fast ending...

We got home before midnight and when she mentioned taking a shower I knew my opportunity had come. I told her to wake me when she finished but used the opportunity to seek her Dad's blessing. I waited for her. For some inexplicable reason, for I had been sure about asking her to be my wife for several months before this night, my heart was beating extra hard. She returned and I got her to sit down. I said a few words and knelt down on one knee. And as I said the words she started crying. After a few seconds, which felt like hours, I had to ask 'is this a yes?' She went 'Yes of course' and as she continued crying she added 'Now I have to admit to everyone that I was wearing a bonnet when you proposed!!' I couldn't stop lauging.

Happy 4th of July and Happy Anniversary!

2009-07-02T12:51:00.004-05:00

Ken and Vonda

July 4, 2008 - Happy Anniversary!

The Empire Room

Engage! 09 :: Something Blue

2009-06-21T16:03:00.006-05:00

Engage! 09 :: Something Blue

June 21 -24, 2009

Grand Cayman

Ritz Carlton

I am attending a luxury wedding business summit, hosted by Engaging Concepts. Rebecca Grinnals and Kathryn Arce are the purveyors of this amazing event. According to Kathryn and Rebecca this will be "An unbelievable assembling of many of the best of the best in the wedding industry. It will truly be an unprecedented gathering of some of the most creative and successful wedding industry professionals representing many different facets of the market."

Check them out at

www.engageconcepts.com

www.engage09.blogspot.com

You could feel the energy and the buzz at registration.

I arrived yesterday! The host hotel is the Ritz Carlton and it is amazing as you can imagine.

On my way here, I read the article Achieve Success by Building Your Personal Brand in the

June 15, 2009, American Way Magazine by Scott Steinberg. It really sums up why I am here.

1. "How you package and present yourself speaks volumes."

2. "Education is expensive, but ignorance remains costlier still."

3. "Don't hesitate-create."

4. "You are who you know"

5. "It's imperative you stay at top of people's minds."

The welcome gift! It is full of fabulousness.... is that a word?..

It is now! More to come......

Tonight! The Welcome Party!

Me! A chair massage at registration!

What a treat!

Rebecca Grinnals, President, Engaging Concepts

Trisha Hay of Trisha Hay Graphic Design and

Kathryn Arce, Engaging Concepts, Managing Director

A greeting at the airport!

A daytime wedding!

2009-06-15T09:35:00.007-05:00

Tegulia and Craig

The Details

Ceremony: Tegulia wanted something different and dramatic. Since the wedding was at noon the idea of candles did not work. We created a back drop with hanging large monstera leaves and white dendrobian orchids. We also used small monstera leaves and orange roses for the chair decor. Sunlight only. It was fresh, airy and beautiful. The bouquets were brilliant orange and mango with different flowers for texture. The bride's bouquet had several different white flowers with a splash of green.

Reception: The large monstera leaves and white dendrobian orchids were extended to the reception for the tall arrangements.

Favors: Wine selected by the bride and groom to say "thank you".

LET ME BRING YOU UP TO DATE

2009-06-14T10:45:00.008-05:00

CHRISTIE AND SHADMAN

The Details:

Ceremony: The entire space was draped, pink lighting and white chair covers. The stage was loaded with red rose petals, candles and green hydrangea. The bride loves the stargazer lilly... it was the signature flower with crystals.

Cocktails: Large hydrangea arrangements with stargazer lillies and roses.

Reception: The bride had a photo of a backdrop she wanted for the stage with curly willow. We had it designed with their initials, names and wedding date.

Draping, lighting, and glass bricks for the low arrangements.

Publish Post

2009-06-13T14:21:00.009-05:00

BETH AND KEVIN

January 2008

The Details

Ceremony decor: A lantern wall created from a photo Beth had from an outdoor wedding.

Wallpaper table topper: Beth is an interior designer so this is one of her favorites.

Favors and invitations: Kevin designed the invitations and they had the boxing gloves made.

Photographer: Sil Azevedo - www.silazevedo.com

Invitations: Bell Invito - www. bellinvitio.com

Location: Hickory Street Annex - www.hickorystreetannex.com

The Venue Update

2009-04-27T21:59:00.009-05:00

MARC Events

1130 Dragon Street

Suite 120

Dallas, Texas 75207

www.marcevents.com

Studio 1019

2278 Monitor

Dallas, Texas

www.studios1019.com

North Texas Automotive Museum

www.northtexasautomotivemuseum.com

677 West Campbell Road

Richardson, Texas 75080

214-215.1170

www.northteaxsautomotivemuseum.com

Kristen Dixon at the opening.

The Empire Room Open House

2009-04-18T09:58:00.001-05:00

Thursday, April 16, 2009

The Empire Room! There are only a few places in Dallas where you get the entire floor of a venue with a spectacular view. This is one of them! It is the perfect place for a wedding and reception, reception only, parties, and corporate events.

Thanks Laura for inviting me. It is such great fun to spend an evening with amazing talented wedding and event professionals. It is great to get a chance to visit which we do not get to do often. I have included photographs of their work... My photography is getting better sooo enjoy!

Oh! and a big hello to Marla Watson-Wesrst

(www.peapodproductions.com) and Ashely Holder.

Also, thanks to my June brides Kelly, June 6 and Ayra, June27 for stopping by! They are Empire Room brides.

If you are interested in seeing the Empire Room dressed for a wedding and reception when we are the creative team...ask Laura or contact me directly and I'll let you know what time! See you soon!

I designed the ceremony space for the evening. Candle lighting is amazing in this space. Candle screens with heavy sheers, curly willow trees with loads of hanging candles softens the dark wood in the space. Brides just need to remember the days are longer in the summer so you want to think about the start time for maximum ambiance. The Empire Room also has dimmers an that also enhances the ambiance. Another consideration is uplighting. Brides: check the Farmer's Almanac for the time of sunrise or sunset. I made these photos so they are not "fabulous". I am getting better.

LAURA KELSEY

Laura Kelsey is the Catering and Sales Manager at the Empire Room. They open every third Thursday of the month for open house. Brides and corporate planners get to meet and see some of Dallas' most talented wedding and event designers.

Gil's Elegant Catering provided the amazing food, beverages and service. They also provide off site catering.

www.empireroomdallas.com and www.gilselegantcatering.com

Ligthting for the evening was provide by

Lite Dallas. (www.litedallas.com)

Susan Strauss, of simply Personal, Invitations, Design, Weddings. Events. Marketing.

www.simplypersonal.com.

Tami, from A Magic Moment styled this setting

with tableware from RSVP.

www.AMagicMomentEvents.com

Robin, from Your Perfect Wedding by DiFori

styled this table with tableware

from Brana Rope of RSVP Soiree.

www.Yourperfectwedding.com

www.dallasrsvp.com

These photos are from past weddings and open house at The Empire Room.

The views from this space are fabulous. Guest spend a lot of time just to see what they can see. You can create the backdrop you want. This was a noon wedding.

This is taken from the Bridal Suite.
Colby Logan of Astounding Sounds DJ Entertainment and Elegant Lighting.

(www.astoundingstounds.com)

The Orion Ballroom Open House

2009-04-12T18:39:00.018-05:00

The low arrangements need a little boost from the table. I love this round container opened on both sides.

This is a glass container wrapped in black satin ribbon below. Texture, one color and different flowers...are my favorite.

The Orion Ballroom view of downtown Dallas. It is beautiful day or evening.

The curly willow branches give this design height with white calla lillies and hanging candles.

The Rigel Salon can be designed for the ceremony space. The arms are wrapped with white dendrobium orchids with hanging candles.

Tuesday, April 7, we had the pleasure of being the guest at the Orion Ballroom. We brought our creative ideas to one of Dallas' new host venues. Many people remember this location as the Top O' the Cliff. It is on the 15th floor of the Bank of America building, 400 South Zang Street, in Oak Cliff, Texas. Before some of you panic... it is on 35 South, the 4th or so exit from downtown, right off the Beckley Street exit. Now, it has the most beautiful view of downtown Dallas. The proprietor, Doug Brown of Food Beyond the Box and Sala has transformed this former dark boardroom looking space to fresh and modern. The lighting, color, and decor make this an easy space to add your signature wedding designs. Meagan Hayes the Director of Sales makes it easy to work in this space and the clients love her. Their open house is every first Tuesday of each month.

Our approach for this space was to enhance the look. White, White and more White. Simple. Dramatic. Simple. Black for tradition. For the Rigel Salon which can be used for the ceremony space we used two 8 foot tall iron candle holders. We draped them with fabric to soften the iron, attached dendrobium orchids to the arms and hung candles from the arms. Simple, soft and spectacular.

We designed several looks for the reception area. We like interesting containers, color (black in this case), clear, clear wrapped in ribbon, odd shapes and we create containers. The low arrangement on a riser always gives them a different look. Now, that is not to say the color would not work in this space. I am saying that I like monochromatic in the floral. Texture. In this case different types of white flowers. Beautiful table lines and fabulous flowers, and loads of candles and lighting if possible.

A note on color and venue....For an event or wedding, you should select your venue first and then start your color selection. The decor of the venue will assist you in selecting your color. Sometimes your colors will clash with the space if you are not planning to drape it completely. You can absolutely use one color for your ceremony and another for your reception.

2009-04-06T10:00:00.000-05:00

Finally! I thought creating a blog would be simple. Whew! Thank you for visiting our first blog. I want to thank a group of fabulous assistants that make what I do look easy. Ricky Johnson, Marcus Estes, Veronica Webb, and Richard Huerta. I could not do what I do without you.

My first several post will include lots of wonderful photos and information that will be helpful.

Thank you for joining us! I would love to hear from you. Please email us with any questions or call and we will be happy to answer them or do my favorite thing... research!

Enjoy!

Brooke and Tanner and Martha Stewart?

2009-04-06T09:00:00.004-05:00

Yippee! Spring is here! One of my favorite combinations is white with fresh greens. All shades. After all the rain, cold, and dreary weather we have had, these colors signal the beginning of Spring. Miss Martha calls it the "perfect palette" in the Spring 2009 wedding magazine. Brooke (the bride) also adds spice with the bridal party sporting different dress designs in the same color. It also allows the bridesmaid to select a dress that she likes and is flattering.

Texture in green.....

2009-04-06T08:45:00.001-05:00