The Alchemist Bride

Gentry Gala Pics Continued

2009-05-31T10:34:00.000-07:00

More pics

Gentry Gala

2009-05-31T10:16:00.000-07:00

In conjunction with La Honda Winery, Silver Creek Country Club, Hunt Littlefield Floral Design, and Marlowe Berglund Events, we presented a wine tasting dinner last night at the Gentry Gala at the Sheraton in Palo Alto. The event was well attended by over 600 people. Our table looked awesome and we raised some great money for local Peninsula Charities with our presentation of a Winemaker dinner.

Thanks for all those that helped make this possible.

Silverado Country Club

2009-05-28T09:04:00.000-07:00

I went to a networking event last night at the Silverado Country Club in Napa. I hadn't been there in quite some time. It is really an awesome and unique venue for Napa, with the grove setting under heritage oaks with a patio reception illuminated with paper lanterns. Truly gorgeous. Site fee is a bit steep, but it is made up for with really great menu prices.... Making this a very reasonable Napa Valley site. Plus they have capacity for parties over 300 making it an even rarer gem. Check out the pics.

Mod and Retro Cake Design

2009-03-16T16:43:00.000-07:00

I met Krista from Sugarcoat it Studios at an ISES event last fall. I was lucky enough to see her work in the flesh a few weeks ago and taste her delicious work and I want to pass on her information. She works mostly in fondant and produces mid-century, retro, and modern design cakes that are amazing to look at and taste wonderful.

If you have a uniquely modern style you should definitely visit her and see her work.

http://www.sugarcoatitstudio.com/

On Vacay

2009-02-09T21:55:00.000-08:00

The Alchemist Bride will be offline until the end of February. Enjoy the rest of the month!

Shower Etiquette

2009-02-09T21:43:00.000-08:00

Alright,

I feel that in this modern world, sometimes we need to remind ourselves of what social etiquette is all about. Most of it is based on solid ethical ideas about what is right and wrong and what is just plain tacky.

Bridal Showers-

Bridal showers should NEVER be thrown by members of the bride or grooms immediate family.

REASON- a member of the immediate family throwing a shower is tantamount to your brother asking for gifts for you, or your mother telling your friends to give you stuff.

EXCEPTIONS-

an immediate family member may provide the location or funds to support the shower but should not be the formal host of the event.

HOSTS- invitations should always clearly state who the host of the event is at the top of the invitation, another person may be the recipient of the RSVP.

NEVER! place where you are registered on the invitation

NEVER! insert those cards they give you telling people where you are registered

THE ONLY APPROPRIATE PLACE FOR REGISTRY INFORMATION-

is on your website or provided to people RSVP'ing to an event by phone or email upon their request.....

NEVER- have a shower with gifts of a different nature presented to you. i.e. if you are getting married and having a bridal shower the only acceptable registries are those of a honeymoon, domestic, or lingerie nature. If you plan to have kids soon you can' t ask for kids stuff. That is what a baby shower is for once you are actually pregnant. You cannot ask for stuff to pay off your student loan debts. You should not ask that people pay their way to the wedding by buying items for the wedding itself.

More than one shower is acceptable if thrown by different groups, etc.

Bridal party members of the same sex regardless of the side of the aisle they are on and regardless of their ability to attend must receive invitations to EVERY shower. Also parents and grandparents again regardless of their ability to attend should also be invited to EVERY shower.

Statements that no gifts are to be received are appropriate where requested on an invitation. Offers of charity donation in lieu of gifts are marginally acceptable on invitations, but should really be placed on a website instead.

BABY SHOWERS-

YOU ONLY GET ONE

Yes really, this is the rule. Same as above, immediate family cannot host the shower and regardless of what sex child you have first last or anywhere in between, it is only appropriate to have one baby shower. O.k. I mean one baby shower per friend group and only for the first child.

Reasoning- if everyone had a shower for every kid it would be ridiculous. Showers help you get established with the basics, these are functional regardless of the sex of the child, enough friends without you asking them will provide you with opposite sex gifts if you have a second child of differing gender.

FORM OF INVITE

Invitations to showers etc. should really be on paper by formal invitation. I know, it is the modern era and email rocks, so does saving paper and stamps. However, this occasion occurs rather infrequently so it is worth paying a few bucks and making formal paper invitations if you can.

Award Dresses- and inspiration for gowns

2009-01-27T17:03:00.000-08:00

Most of us can't afford a truly custom designed gown, but we can take inspiration from the designer gowns worn during awards season.

This year we have seen lots of interesting necklines on dresses and I think this trend is definitely transitioning into bridal.

So fashion forward brides, look at one shoulder, one shoulder on, off the shoulder, and other more unusual necklines. Necklines that are asymmetrical are surprisingly flattering on most people with the exception of women with very large chests which lead to them spilling out the sides.

Check out Anne Hathaway's gown in Bride Wars for an awesome neckline,
also note Christina Applegate's SAG Gown, Evan Rachel Wood's SAG Gown

See link for photo slide show.

http://www.accesshollywood.com/2009-sag-awards-red-carpet_gallery_1731

Target Alert- Visual Design Elements

2009-01-25T16:28:00.000-08:00

Target has their Design Studio items currently heading out the door in the seasonal section of your local Target.
In the design section they have some great items for event decor.
Check them out!

A great idea is that they have large wall murals and wall paper that are very chic, graphic, and modern. Placing these large murals at your event on walls, or use them as screens to create more intimate spaces.

You can use the wallpaper as table runners, place mats, or as screens hanging from the ceiling, draped, or on basic frames that you can make out of 1x2 inch molding and assemble on site with relative ease. The wall paper is running around 20 dollars a roll which is a screaming deal. Check out your local store though, they have much more than is available online.

http://www.target.com/Wallpaper-Floral-Trail-Chocolate/dp/B001D4OROC/sr=1-14/qid=1232929916/ref=sr_1_14/181-0438450-0640533?ie=UTF8&index=target&rh=k%3Awallpaper%20chocolate&page=1

Letterpress invitations make a statement

2009-01-20T15:03:00.000-08:00

Letterpress for those of you who don't know is actually one of the oldest types of printmaking. Back in the day people would hand scrape lettering on metal or wood blocks, ink the blocks, and press them into paper under pressure in a "press" hence- letterpress. The image yields a highly textured bold print technique that has been seeing a resurgence in popularity for the past 10 years or so. Letterpress is for the most part still a cottage craft run by smaller local print shops. The process has changed so that now high grade plastic press sheets are often molded by machine instead of the hand scraping, and it makes the process significantly more time efficient, and over the years it has come down in price some. Letterpress however remains the most expensive in general of the paper invitation types.
In addition to the labor intensive and highly custom nature of making the plates, the paper remains hand pressed, each by hand (generally) and in addition, letterpress is produced on a higher grade thicker paper stock which is also more costly.
The results however are spectacular. While I often comment that the additional cost will not yield the wow result for everyone, if you are picky about paper invitations, letterpress should definitely fit into your consideration.
Note however that the nature of letterpress is such that highly detailed multi-tonal prints are not available, feasible, or appropriate for the letterpress process, much like screen printing, minimal color changes make the pressing process much more economical. In fact most invitations are a single or two tone process, as each color requires the creation of a separate plate.

I want to draw your attention to a few local (SF Bay Area) presses that are producing excellent commercial and custom products at reasonable prices:

1. Hello Lucky! www.hellolucky.com

2. Milkfed Press www.milkfedpress.com

3. Sky of Blue Design www.skyofbluedesign.com

Good luck!

Modern Trends in Floral- Clumps

2009-01-14T19:13:00.000-08:00

The newest trend in floral is a modern take on zen and Asian inspired floral themes.

The floral material is arranged by type, arranged into groups and then placed into a mixed container which displays impactful texture, color, and style.

This isn't for everyone, but if you like fashion forward, modern, and bold floral statements consider this look.

Check out.

http://www.floral-sense.com/portfolio.html

http://www.birchsf.com/flowers.html

http://huntlittlefield.com/home.html

Dress Fit and Finish- very important

2009-01-07T13:51:00.000-08:00

Dresses should be tailored properly to your body. A well tailored dress either for the bride, the mother of the bride, celebrant or attendee, a good fit makes everyone look thinner, more shapely, and much better in pictures. Here are a few tips to tell if your dress fits you right.

1. Strapless height-
Everyone has a different breast shape, size, placement, and height. Strapless dresses still constitute a statistical majority of all bridal gown sales. Just because the seamstress says the dress should fit a certain way does not mean that it should fit YOU that way. Here are some tips.
a. comfort- if you aren't comfortable with the height, hit, and cut of the strapless line, ask that it be altered, you should adjust, shift or ask that extra material such as a detail strap be placed in the area of concern.
b. shapeliness- many peoples breasts topple under or over strapless dresses. If the dress is too large in the top it should not be adjusted just at the sides (which is the easiest and hence most common approach). The dress should be taken in at the front seams as well to accommodate a smaller bust. Similarly large busted girls should order a dress a size larger than you normally would. Then take the center over the bust seams and contour them appropriately over your bust taking it in at the top of the bust so that the dress cups the breast rather than causes it to spill and prop over the gown.
This may alter how the dress sits on your waist, but again a good seamstress should be able to make these modifications.
Please note that I highly recommend that if you have a disproportionately large bust that you try and find a gown that makes dresses in cup sizes, see Augusta Jones, for a moderately priced range of exceptionally crafted gowns ($2000-$4000)

2. Waist- The waist of your gown should be fitted so that you are snug when standing and even snugger sitting, but never too loose. Loose waists begin to stretch and pooch after some wearing, creating an appearance of waist fat on even the thinnest woman.

3. Hem- a properly hemmed dress should be adjusted to your shoe height and your interest in showing your feet. Regardless, a dress should never puddle on the ground nor sweep the ground in the front to avoid stepping on the gown.

Those are my best tips for dress fit.... Make sure you find a good alterations specialist, and make sure that you have good communication with them, many alterations can be made to a gown and they will turn an average dress into extraordinary.

Pearls are the hot jewelry for bridal 2009

2008-12-19T13:35:00.000-08:00

Pearls go in and out of fashion in general (some may disagree) but in bridal they generally have a consistent following.

However this year... the trend is definitely towards pearls.... Diamond sparkle will always hold a place in my heart but larger pearl jewelry pieces are definitely making a statement in bridal.

1. Many layered ropes- super chic

2. Asymmetrical pearl ropes with diamond or accented asymmetrical pieces- awesome!

They have to be- layered... more than one strand.

look great i.e. not the cheapest fakes, but good news, real and fake pearls can look fabulous as low prices!

Another great tip- buy a single long strand 60 -100 inches. Then find a brooch. affix the brooch to the strand on an angle, this keeps the strands locked in a graduated fashion, and it is also awesome looking.... if they slide around, you can actually attach the brooch to your dress, keeping the pearls in place, and the brooch at the right angle.

Hint- if you go with a huge necklace, tone down the earrings and vice versa.

Here is a good start!

http://www.smartbargains.com/go.sb?pagename=prod&fd=true&fcloc=search&sp=All+Products////Jewelry+%26+Watch+Bargains////Pearl+Jewelry////AttribSelect%3dType%3d'Necklaces+%26+Pendants'////&dk=Pearl%20Jewelry&deptid=6&catid=37&prodid=6020477319&t=Cat-Refine.dept-6.cat-2262.prod.

http://tace.com/f/23429.html

http://www.cyberattic.com/stores/sherrysantiques/items/803064/item803064cyberattic.html

this is the style, but not the chains. although this is a cool necklace

http://www.neimanmarcus.com/store/catalog/prod.jhtml?itemId=prod67010088&parentId=cat4870734&masterId=cat4870731&index=309&cmCat=cat000000cat2830732cat4870731cat4870734

Great Coupon Website

2008-12-15T21:10:00.000-08:00

This website has saved me tons of dough over the past year. Before you make any online purchase be it bridal or personal, check RetailMeNot first.

http://www.retailmenot.com/

Simply put the store you want to search in the search box, and viola, you get coupon results. Sometimes they don't work, but most of the time they do, and it only takes about 30 extra seconds to save sometimes tens of hundreds of dollars.

Happy Shopping

Hot Trends in Bridal for 2009

2008-12-15T16:45:00.000-08:00

Here are some hot new trends in Bridal for 2009

1. Dresses with sleeves! It's a miracle after years of just strapless dresses, I am starting to happily see the off the shoulder and halter make a major comeback this year.

2. Fit and Flare Dresses- They don't look great on everyone, but they are fabulous if you have a great body. See Anne Hathaway's dress in the new bride wars movie. http://www.firstshowing.net/2008/09/24/anne-hathaway-and-kate-hudsons-bride-wars-trailer/

3. Trumpet Vases- Big bold trumpet vases are hot in a big way in floral. The style is finished with a clumping texture to floral instead of mixed floral varieties, creating a very bold statement.

4. Big Hair Pieces- Instead of a veil, large flowers, floral arrangements, jeweled arrangements, and combs are coming in style in a big way.

5. The Blusher is out- the blusher is out... Try a simple single layer veil.....

6. Comfy Shoes- Maybe I am biased, since shoes don't like me very much, but the reality is no one sees your shoes, and you stand all day... Try wedges or non-traditional light colored shoes.

Budget Christmas Decor

2008-12-11T21:14:00.000-08:00

O.k.
So we are all scrimping a bit this season, and I ran across a fabulous idea for Christmas decorations all at Costco, one of the greatest stores!

Costco has the greatest handmade gift tags. They are so adorable, and really add an elegance to any package. They are approximately 8 dollars for 64 tags. I think you would be hard pressed to beat that price for the quality any where else. But, I came across a great idea. If you are really on a budget and wanted to add some pizazz to your tree but couldn't afford to shell the dough for whole new ornament sets, add these tags onto your tree. They have real ribbon holders attached and add flair and beauty to any tree.

Costco also has the most awesome ribbon selection. The ribbon is 6.95 for a 50 yard continuous roll of wired ribbon. I wrap all my packages in real ribbon instead of the sticky bow back types. People always comment on how beautiful my presents are and I really attribute it all to the extra 50 seconds and 10 cents I spent by using real ribbon....
They are super fab!

Glamour Closet San Francisco Huge Sample Sale- Great Designer Gowns, low prices!

2008-12-06T20:44:00.000-08:00

Hi Brides,
If you were looking to buy a designer gown and don't have much to spend, or just want to get a great bargain and you are a street size 4-10, check out the Glamour Closet Sample Sale in San Francisco next weekend, the 13th and 14th.

Get there early, there is normally a line out the door by the time it opens, and it isn't for the modest, people just start stepping into gowns in the middle of the store, so bring your own bra, etc.

Dresses can normally be altered 1 size up or down no problem but be careful that the dress is alterable before buying because all sales are final.

Glamour Closet is an awesome store that miraculously finds sample gowns that haven't been worn and sells them at amazing prices. At the sample sale, dresses are even less expensive than normal- from $400 to $1400 for dresses that are normally 1500 to 8-10,000 dollars! There are some fabulous designers.

http://glamourcloset.com/closet/index.asp

Note- at these samples sales most dresses will be 8 and 10 bridal sizes, and some 12's but generally there are no 14, or 16 dresses, which again to reiterate means street sizes, 4, 6, 8, and borderline 10.

Good Luck and Happy Hunting!

December- time to plan and get a planner even in a tough economy

2008-12-02T18:40:00.000-08:00

I know the economy is tough, believe me. I just wanted to point out a few reasons all you freshly minted engagees should think about hiring a planner if anything for the day of the event.

1. A planner can typically save you as much money if not more than what they cost-

What you may say? How could this be? But the reality is that a good planner has good connections and a good sense of value, what things should cost, where to get them, and who to get them from. In addition a good planner can tell you what is a waste of your money and what is not, and in the end even a pretty high end planner like myself can definitely save you their fee in discounts, good bets, and better purchases.

2. Relax!-

A planner at your event means that you or someone you know who isn't really qualified isn't running around on the day of the event making decisions and scuttling everyone around. The fact is planners especially on the day of make the bride more calm and the day more enjoyable for not just attendees but you as the bride, groom, and bridal party.

3. They Bring your vision to life-

Let's be honest with ourselves for a minute. Do you ever think you want to make this cool outfit and you look back and think what a bust the ensemble really was? The reality is that a qualified and talented planner and designer provide you with stylistic consistency, assistance, and fulfillment. They bring your visions to life in a way you hoped them to be, but better, and you didn't have to worry about it! It's like a mini-miracle.

So, even if your budget is meager, consider hiring at least a "day of" or as I say Abbreviated wedding planner. They will save you time, money, and give you a lot of peace of mind.

Cautionary Note-

Please note that in order to get a qualified planner, you have to research and spend some time finding the right personality fit and stylistic fit. Not all planners are really qualified to provide all the services you may want, and no planner offering to show up only on the day of the event without any preparation should be hired. To do a competent job they must be briefed on the event in full and spend a few hours getting to understand the event to provide flawless results.

Mascara, how I love thee.... a bridal necessity

2008-11-29T09:14:00.000-08:00

Mascara is a must. If you are getting married and don't normally wear it, or fear the twisty wand that brings such wonderment to your eyes, get ready, you need it for your wedding day. Nothing completes the face more than mascara.

I am one of those folks who buys all the newest mascara and gives it a good college try.... at least 5 applications.

You need at least 5 applications because many brushes take a while to break in, and work correctly as well as the mascara finally gets properly primed on the brush.

The number 1 rule!!!! You must wear waterproof mascara. I have heard numerous times, but I won't cry and my favorite isn't made in waterproof..... No! waterproof is demanded. All those brides were really happy they went with the waterproof. Even if you don't think you will cry, 1. you might anyway, 2. what if something gets in your eye and you start to tear? 3. what if it rains spontaneously (clearly the dress and your hair will also be in disrepair in this situation) ;). 4. Sometimes you touch your face and waterproof doesn't smear! Its a miracle.

Here are a few mascaras I have found lately that I love and are worth a try.

(in no particular order)

Volume and length

1. Voluminous by Loreal- It is a good standby, thickens and lengthens simultaneously, can be a bit clumpy. The trick is to brush on the mascara. then clean the brush by drawing the wand through tissue paper, (read t.p. or Kleenex) then brush back over the still wet lashes to avoid clumping.

http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?skuId=1472358&productId=14353&navAction=push&navCount=3&categoryId=cat80040&title=Volume+Building+Waterproof+Mascara

Volume and Definition

2. Max Factor Volume Couture- Plastic brush creates excellent definition, the trick is to break this brush in and you have to get used to the plastic brush, you may poke yourself in the eye the first few times, but it is worth it! A great product.

http://www.ulta.com/ulta/browse/productDetail.jsp?skuId=2140602&productId=xlsImpprod860090&navAction=push&navCount=1&categoryId=cat80040

Volume, Length, and Curl

3. Max Factor Lash Lift- I think this is my all around favorite, replacing he pink and green tube staple. It is a fabulous all around mascara, it creates definition, lift, and length, it coats well for night time, comes in waterproof and is inexpensive.

http://www.classyperfume.com/086100023620.html

Volume, Length, and new brush

4. Rimmel Eye Magnifier- Interesting plastic brush, requires that you twist while applying the mascara, but creates amazing lengthening, and almost false lash look.

http://www.walgreens.com/store/product.jsp?id=prod3969148&CATID=304844&skuid=sku3967997&V=G&ec=frgl_544170&ci_src=14110944&ci_sku=sku3967997

Volume, Length, and Fabu Smell

5. Dior DiorShow Mascara- I add this not because I love it, because honestly I think the brush is stupid big, but it is a good mascara and so many people love it. I think it is good for people with huge eyes or something, I do however love the rosewater smell, and actually use an old Volume Couture (Max Factor) brush in mine and really like the results.

http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P99901&categoryId=B70

Volume, Length, funny name

6. Imju Fiberwig- This is the new "it" product in mascaras. Lengthening fibers create good overall balance of length and volume. Like Rimmel, can create false lash look, created for the Asian market. Asian eyelashes tend to be straight and shorter, so if you have longer curvier lashes, expect very visible results. (Sephora exclusive)

http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P174100&categoryId=B70

Asian Art Musem, private events highly recommended!

2008-11-24T11:28:00.000-08:00

We held a small private event in the Asian Art Museum's private dining room this weekend. The staff at the Cafe' were exceptional in both setting up and serving and attending to the event. The private dining room off the main cafe, is smallish, and can seat up to 30 very comfortably. The dining menu was very affordable for the 3 course meal we served and the service was well, excellent.

I highly recommend this location for small parties, showers, small weddings, corporate events. I know that you can rent the entire museum out in the evenings for private events and weddings. It is a spectacular location and a great place to economically hold small events. Renting the whole museum is obviously more costly, but in my opinion the setting is well worth the cost.

We also got a chance to see the Afghanistan exhibit which is truly a special exhibit of articles not duplicated in any other collection. If you get a chance you should take a look.

Awesome Bridal Shower- Le Meridien

2008-11-24T11:05:00.001-08:00

I just wanted to share that I was lucky enough to plan an awesome Bachelorette/Bridal Shower in San Francisco this weekend.

I wanted to thank everyone for attending and having such a great time.

Some cool things we did.

1. Toilet Paper Bride- I am bringing this game back..... You break up the party into teams, each gets two rolls of t.p. and about 5-10 minutes to construct a gown on a live model. The bride then judges the best composition. Someone from each team ala. Project Runway, has to explain their design inspiration, and how they feel this suits the bride.

The bride chooses a winner

2. Love Letter Mad Libs-

There are a few of these online, you write a letter with fill in the blanks, they can either be non-sensical or thematic, such as cleaning products, food items, etc. When the answers are put into place the letter reads smoothly, some creative results ensue that are hilarious.

Some Great Things-

The Georgetown Suite at the Le Meridien in San Francisco was an awesome room for a small gathering. I was pleased with the location- right in the heart of the Financial District, and the awesome front office staff. The room had two plasmas, a desk, and a big sitting room, unfortunately it is on the city view side, but things could be a lot worse.

Also note.... Travel Zoo (www.travelzoo.com) offers screaming weekend deals a lot for this property. It is also a Starwood associated resort, so you get your miles too!

Bloomingdales- a must for registries

2008-11-19T21:11:00.000-08:00

I love Bloomingdale's.
Those little brown bags make my heart go all aflutter.
When it comes to registering for gifts I can't recommend highly enough choosing Bloomingdale's as your store and home for your home products.
Bloomingdale's offers superior customer service to you and your guests in particular it is hands, feet, and all other limbs, above their sister Federated Department Store company, starts with an M ends in an Y'S.
Here is why I recommend you register at my beloved Bloomie's.

Superior customer service-
many people ask, what is this customer service thing, it isn't that important? Let me tell you.
I have had some issues with a manufacturer sending me the wrong plate, Lynn Roberts at the Stanford Home Store has spent 2 and a half years working with the manufacturer directly to get me this plate. I did not have to argue with her, she has been my advocate with the company and has done her job spectacularly. I can't think of another store where employees would go out of their way like this to make a customer happy and to get them what they want. Not only that, I get updated with sales and promotions, and I have a friendly shining representative eager to help me with all my client, and bridal purchases for the rest of my life! They actually care about me! What an amazing rarity in this world.

Here is why people think they shouldn't register at Bloomies-

Their inventory is small... what do I do?
No it is not! Almost anything that Macy's carries Bloomingdale's can place on your registry, in fact, did you know the lovely staff at the Registry counter can even purchase your gifts for you for other Federated department store registries. This means that you can register not just for what you see in the store, but a bevy of other merchandise.

There isn't a Bloomingdale's near me.
If you live so far away that you would never drive to one, then yes, perhaps you shouldn't register at Bloomies, but if you could potentially drive to one once or twice for exchanges, etc. then you should register at Bloomies. Don't fear, people will still buy you things from Bloomies. The reality is that no one shops in the store anymore for gifts. Most people shop online for gifts and therefore won't be dissuaded from buying items on your registry that they cannot see in person. And if they are dying to look at the item before purchase, I assume you are also registering at Crate and Barrel, Williams Sonoma, Target anyhow.

All I can say is give Bloomingdale's a gander, I have had a few clients initially (against my recommendations) register at Macy's and then decide to migrate their registries over because their experiences at that other store were so bad that they wanted to switch. In each case, the couple thought it was one of the best wedding decisions they made, and made the process of gift giving and receiving much easier for all.

have to brag about a new chair

2008-11-18T19:07:00.000-08:00

I have had back issues for years. A recent stint to physical therapy for a knee injury made me re-realize the chronic nature of back problems. It became apparent that my armless, non-reclining attractive but un-supportive office chair needed replacing. Being the green minded and fiscally conservative person I am, I turned to the used office chair market.... Craigslist.
After some test sitting, I settled on the Humanscale Liberty chair. So far I LOVE it! What a fabulous purchase. I can't say enough about the supportive, yet light weight and dynamic feel of this chair, I am hooked!
A good chair really can improve your efficiency and your overall posture and back health so think about improving your sitting situation if you are experiencing back pain!

Weighty issues, losing weight before the wedding

2008-11-18T16:43:00.000-08:00

Many of my brides comment "and I plan to lose 15 lbs before the wedding" and the truth is so many of them don't beed to. If you are going to diet be sensible and realistic about this endeavor.

1. Don't try and lose more than 2 sizes in 6 months.

2. Don't order a dress 2 sizes smaller even if you plan to lose 2 sizes because even if you do, your hips may remain an 8 even though your chest is a 4 and guess what, that size 4 dress (which was really an 8 or 10 bridal size anyways) won't fit you, and then you end up really sad and without a dress that fits.

3. There is a reality that many people gain and not lose weight when they are stressed. Getting married is a very stressful process for not just most people, but everybody! So if you are a stress eater it may not be realistic for you to lose weight at all.

If you do decide to lose weight, here are some tips that will really help you succeed.

1. Weight Watchers- the group nature and changing of eating habits this plan provides teaches you not just how to lose weight but how to keep it off.

2. work out more- it works! it is a miracle, keeps you healthy and your skin and body look better!

What not to do-

1. Diet plans that you buy food for.... These plans don't teach you how to eat and they don't teach you how to prepare your own food. The people I know and clients I have had use these plans often gain the weight they lost back in a number of months off the plan, and no one wants to eat food out of a package forever.

2. Diet plans that are too restrictive. Lets be honest, no sugar ever again... this is not realistic. I had a bride do the South Beach Plan and she couldn't stick to it as a lifetime diet change. No surprise, it is a very strict regimen. She gained all her weight and more back by her first anniversary.

If you plan to diet, do it for yourself and your health and choose a plan and a regime that improves your lifestyle not just what goes into your mouth for the next few months. Create a realistic goal, and remember, your fiancee is marrying you now, they love you for who you are regardless of your size, and you should love yourself no matter your size too.

Neiman Marcus Last Call Sale- Bridesmaid Bargains!

2008-11-17T17:54:00.001-08:00

Neiman Marcus is having a 40% off last call clearance sale. Time to hunt for your designer bridesmaid or bridal gown at a screaming deal. I saw a floor length silk gown for $60.00!

The sale ends Tuesday night so hurry!

www.NeimanMarcus.com

Karla the Card Lady

2008-11-17T17:44:00.002-08:00

Just met with a cool custom card designer.
She produces custom designs at prices competitive with some out of the box items.

http://www.gatheringguide.com/event_dir/ca_california/sp_invitations_design_33785.html

Favor Find- reed diffusers

2008-11-16T19:20:00.000-08:00

Reed Diffusers seem to be everywhere these days. And the fact is that most people like them.

For an event I have coming up, I found Walmart has a set of 3 small reed diffusers boxed together for $4.95. I placed each in a cellophane wrapper with a sticker and a bow and amazing, a pretty great favor for under $2.00 packaging and all.

Check out the section of Walmart with the crafts, in the aisle with vases and other floral items.... you will find the reed diffusers. Get them while you can.

Bridesmaid dresses, love em or hate em, they happen

2008-11-15T16:35:00.000-08:00

Bridesmaid Dresses,
Just a heads up.
So I always recommend that if you have girls who are "regular sizes" i.e. 0-14 or 0-16 that you are better off buying dresses off the rack in a department store. Here is why.

1. you are more likely to get a better bargain
2. the dresses are more likely to fit better
3. you are more likely to find a more stylish dress.

Here are the problems that I see most often with buying a true bridal shop bridesmaids dress.....

the sizing!

oh my gosh, your size 2 friend will be told to order a size 10, and then it shows up and is too big on top too small on the bottom and 6 inches too long.
The reality is that many bridesmaids specific dresses are sized awkwardly and are made in pattern sizes, which is the size pattern you would sew for yourself not the size you buy at banana republic.
Even I have fallen into the trap as a sewer, fashionista, and wedding coordinator. For a friend this year she was hellbent on having a specific color gown, the color of which was not in style this year so we bought bridesmaids dresses.
A very reputable bridal shop had me order a dress 4 sizes larger than my street size. I talked them down to 3 sizes larger, looking at the sizing chart. The dress came in and I could have housed my harem, 3 camels, and a league of Arabian horses in the dress, it was huge. It was so huge that I could barely get it cut down and still look normal. In addition, I spent a ridiculous amount on alterations.
This tale happens time after time in many bridal shops. And yet, if I had bought it off the rack I could have tried it on right then, paid Nordstroms a paltry sum to alter it perfectly and would have been a much happier camper not buying a tent.
So buyer beware, the sizing on many bridesmaids dresses is quite strange, the fit equally strange and it is very stressful not only on the bride but the bridesmaids.
Think about buying an off the rack dress instead and personalizing it with a sash, a pin, a flower, putting an underskirt with a flash of color or some other personalized touch on the dress. You are guaranteed better more predictable and sometimes more cost effective results.

Some great resources for bridesmaids dresses

Nordstroms
www.nordstrom.com

J.Crew (basic but functional)
www.jcrew.com

Neiman Marcus (check out last call, fabulous dresses at fabulous prices)
www.neimanmarcus.com

Saks Fifth Avenue (check online sale section)
www.saksfifthavenue.com

Bloomingdales.com (check sales)
www.bloomingdales.com

Barrie Pace (hidden gem, hit or miss but when a hit a real hit)
www.barriepace.com

Dillard's (owned by Macy's but carries often different colors in same gown)
www.dillards.com

Macy's (love it but hate it... but it is a standby)
www.macys.com

To Favor or not Favor

2008-11-12T21:37:00.000-08:00

Favors...
They are a conundrum.
The ones in the magazines look awesome and you feel compelled to do something just like the Martha Stewart Magazine. Which as great. especially if you have the 12-50 dollars a person some of those favors cost.
The reality is that most favors get left behind at weddings.
Here are a few favors that I have never seen get left behind and are hence probably worth the money and worth getting.

1. Food-
Food be it chocolate, cookies, eclairs, small cakes, they always get either eaten on the spot or taken home for later consumption. People love candy! You can do the popular candy bar, an assortment of candy each guest packages themselves, the sees candy box (at 1.25- 1.50 each in the box and all, these are a no brainer available in red, white, black, and gold, other colors available seasonally)
M & M's is highly marketing their customized M & M's which are adorable and well loved, be careful they are about $4.00 per person and up depending on packaging, and many people don't realize that.
The cheapest option is the much beloved Hershey's bar which you place a custom paper wrapper over, which you print yourself. These can be made as cheaply as 50 cents per person.

2. Wine-
If the budget allows people always take wine. Beware that you are going to spend at least $4 a bottle, and you probably want to spend more. You can give 1 bottle per family which cuts down the number required substantially.

The gift if it is a personal item should be small and it should be neutral enough to appeal to everyone. Wine glasses don't get picked up even if personalized, and burning custom Cd's is plain old copyright infringement and illegal. Not to mention no one really wants to listen to the sappy songs you put together. Give them to each other instead of all your guests.

The most popular growing trend and one I think is fabulous is to give the guests a bookmark that states a donation has been made in the name of the wedding to a charity in lieu of favors. No one misses the favors, and giving a donation to charity in whatever amount saves wasted cash on things people leave behind, saves the world by reducing useless consumer production, waste and transportation, and is great for other people in the world.

Think about donating instead of favors...

A Realistic Discussion on Pricing even in a down economy

2008-11-08T22:21:00.000-08:00

Alright brides, grooms, and celebrants alike. Let's have a realistic chat about pricing.

Don't go to a professional and try to lowball them too much just because the economy is down. (please note these prices are based upon the San Francisco Bay Area, they may be different in your neck of the woods)
For instance.

Floral-
If you budget is under $1,000 dollars. Don't try and get a florist to do your flowers for that much.

Here is a basic breakdown.

Bouquet $150
Boutonniere $12-$15
Centerpieces $50- about as cheap as you can get.

Considering these prices (which are for bare bones basic floral arrangements) do not try and talk a florist into doing gazebo arrangements, flowers for a bridal party of 10, and centerpieces for 100 for $1,000. It can't be done.
Instead- check out Costco.com. That is about the cheapest you can do (other than create them yourself). If you do decide to do your own, give yourself 6 hours to do a flowers for the bridal party alone and be sure to budget in a set of trial flowers so you can be assured of your skills prior to the day before.

Photographers-

There is a lot of variation in pricing, but to be honest, $2,000 will not get you a competent photographer with reasonable experience. And they certainly won't be giving you an album for that price. An Album at the cheapest is $500 dollars. And these aren't that great. A good album you will actually want are between $1,200 and $3,000 from a reputable photographer.
Shooting fees should include a dvd of the shots, a certain number of shots perfected (wrinkles removed, zits, etc.) and all should be color corrected.

But honestly, you should budget for $3,000 at the lowest for a photographer and this probably won't include an album. An average price will be $3,500 to $6,000 for a competent professional photographer whose work you will be happy with for years to come. (again no album)

Coordination-

There are some "coordinators" out there who will do a day of wedding for $500 or $1000. But buyer beware. A day of coordinator shouldn't just show up on the day of the wedding. It takes at least 8 if not 15 hours of pre-wedding preparation including calling other vendors, meeting with the couple, and perfecting the timeline to produce a smooth and well run event. I highly recommend that you try and find someone with some year(s) of experience not as a catering manager, not as a sales manager, not as an on-site event manager, but as a legitimate wedding coordinator or special event coordinator.

So make sure you budget enough for these services, they are very important, be realistic about what it is going to cost and the quality of service you really want. There are lots of ways to save money in other ways, but don't skimp on the staff!

National Womens Business Town Hall Meeting Today

2008-11-06T18:23:00.000-08:00

I attended the National Women's Business Council Town Hall Meeting today at the Hotel Nikko in San Francisco. It was an interesting event.

We talked about the issues facing women business owners and how we can try to effectively lobby the federal government to provide us with better services and resources.

I felt like we were making some sort of dent into the myriad of issues women businesses face. In particular I wanted to share that I feel women in business are still a rarity, that women still rarely rise to the top, and that this is a problem. Many women at the event spoke about the health care issues, taxes, capitalization, and other problems affecting us as business owners.

I hope you all take heart that we are an important part of the workforce and that you should go out of your way to support women owned businesses, like mine!

see http://www.nwbc.gov / for more information

David's Bridal, there are other options out there....

2008-11-05T17:22:00.000-08:00

I often get asked where to go to buy gowns. Without hesitation I can declare, not, I repeat, not David's Bridal.

Let me count the ways why.

1. They are cheap.

Many people would think of this as a positive, but no... they are cheap, cheap in every way. The material is cheap. I sew, and I tell ya it is the cheapest stuff they can buy. And what does cheap mean? Not only that it is cheap, but that it ends up looking cheap. The material does not have the structural integrity to stay formed on the body in the precise way in which it was intended. Hence, you look bad in your pictures. The dresses slouch, they gape, they moire (a term for the fish-eyeness of the chiffon, which turns out to be pretty terrible in pictures particularly with flash photography or extreme outside light). They also aren't constructed with sufficient support to hold in much of anything, keep your belly button from showing in pictures (even at a size 2) and make your rolly parts appear not rolly.

No one, not matter what size, shape, cup size, height, skinniness, fattiness, or anythingness deserves to have millions of photographs taken on their wedding day of them not looking their 110% best they can. And that means having a dress that fits you right, does you favors instead of crimes, and helps smooth, shape, stretch, mold, plaster or whatever it takes to make you look fabulous in your gown.

David's Bridal does not sew this kind of clothing magic into their gowns.

2. They are short. Some of their dresses do not come in sufficient length, even with extra length to fit brides over 5'6" if they wear heels, and depending on how the dress fits them. This is unacceptable.

3. There are other alternatives!!!!!!!!!

Ladies, I cannot express enough how fabulous the dirt cheap wedding dress market has gotten... And I don't just mean the used dress market. I mean new specially made for you dresses.

Here are a few stores and brands that have some fabulous fitting dresses that are constructed in a way that lends itself to making you look fabulous, photograph fabulous, and look like you paid 10 times more than you did for your dress. These manufacturers all make dresses in the 500-1000 dollar market.

1. My absolute favorite- Casablanca Bridal

http://casablancabridal.com/

2. Good bet- Group USA

http://www.groupusa.com

3. Good bet- Maggie Sottero (especially good for plus size, rubenesque, and full busts and stomachs)

http://maggiesottero.com

I highly recommend that if you have a 250 or 100 dollar budget that you scrimp and save on favors (which everyone doesn't take anyhow) or elsewhere to buy a gown that may cost you $500 dollars but that you will be much much happier with.

So just don't do it, don't do David's Bridal.

Wedding Wire to wed or not to wed?

2008-11-05T17:21:00.000-08:00

I spoke with the people at wedding wire today. I would love to hear comments from brides about how they like the site. Seems pretty cool, like yelp just for brides and me likey yelp.

Give me a shout if you like wedding wire.

Intoducing the Alchemist Bride

2008-11-05T16:39:00.000-08:00

Welcome to my new blog- the Alchemist Bride, produced in association with Marlowe Berglund Events.

In my new blog I will be talking about creative ways to save money, cut costs, and the truth about when you should and should not cut costs on planning weddings and events.