Wedding images
I'm sure Clint Shuttlesworth (the photographer) will have many more amazing shots, but here are a few to get you going...
the bridal suite...
Reception:
can't wait for better photos because these really don't do it justice... it was stunning!
Greenvelope
Name: CreativeWeddings
Discount: 15% off any package
Expiration: No set expirationThank you Sam!
Invitations
The invitation will set the tone for your wedding... that is a given...there are SO many options (classic and contemorary)
For those of you who know me you'll know my taste runs pretty classic, but I can still really appreciate the variety.
My favorite bridal gown designer is Monique L'huillier. She has a line of invitations as well which I am pretty fond of (so fond that I carry it...)
I love the look and feel of Letterpress the most.
I also love Oslo Press. They engrave wood laminate and they are a statement and a half...
we've done some custom work with them and they are GREAT... guests keep the invitations around because they are so cool (one person is still using his as a coaster...)
I have to remind you to use recycled products wherever possible! If you are feeling totally green you can also use an online invitationer
www.greenvelope.com
Quite a few styles, but lord knows I'm big on customizing!!! They will track your RSVP's for you which is pretty nice.
So, there you have some options... of course you can't go wrong with Crane's or William Arthur or numerous others. Good luck!
contact me if you need suggestions...
DIY ideas: Napkin Rings
origami...
Origami invitations are pretty popular... now you can continue on that theme
beaded...
Beaded using your colors
a wooden aspen leaf ornament...
it can be any ornament, of course, but it's a nice keepsake
My favorite would be to go to a clay center and make some super cool ceramic rings and glaze them... that would be a GREAT favor!
whether it's beads, feather, flowers, a family tartan or engraved pewter... it's a great way to personalize the table and your guests would have a great keepsake...
Gratitude: the final element
Personalized stamps... of course...
Take a favorite image from the wedding, shower, engagement shoot... and make it a stamp.
I generally use
www.zazzle.com
but the post office uses several including:
www.photostamps.com
Got to say... it's a nice touch!
Gratitude: Segment 3 - The Note Card
If you don't have a great shop near by, look online:
www.stationarystudio.com tons of options
www.jamitpublishing.com Denver based unique cards
www.crane.com totally classic
PLEASE remember: Be as green as possible. It's important to write the note, but is is also important to use recycled papers.
Sometimes a postcard is perfect as well if it speaks to the gift or your relationship.
Be creative and have fun wtih the notes... you'll be glad you spent the time later.
Next up: I'm just not sure yet...
Gratitude: Segment 2 - Write a Great Thank You Note
Just like a blog - keep it short and sweet, but there are some very important inclusions...
- address the recipient as you would if you were having a conversation with them. (i.e. Uncle Bill, Joanie, Mr. Rogers)
- Begin and end with a thank you.
- Include the name of the gift (exception cash) and tell the recipient how you will use (or how you have already used) the gift. (i.e. "I think of you every morning with my first sip of delicious coffee from the Keurig. It's perfect. Thank you!")
- If the gift is cash there are a few different rules... do not state the amount and don't refer to "money", simply thank them for their generosity (or generous gift) and let them know how you plan to use it. (i.e. "Thank you for your generous gift. It will go a long way towards our new home together.")
- I like to make a personal reference to an experience that you and the recipient shared as long as it is brief. (i.e. "The coffee maker will remind me of the day we spent in Boston going to all of those music shops.") Generally there won't be a need to elaborate much more since they were with you and likely remember the event. If you can't think of something fun that you did together, skip it... and go to "thank you"
- End with another "Thank you"
BTW- No One is too busy to say "Thanks!"
Gratitude: A little goes a long way! Segment One (that means there will be more...)
There are certainly websites that can help you with this task, but the secret is to practice. We just don't write like we used to and honestly... it is more special for the receipient to receive a note card than an email. Then again... a rushed, haphazard note is noticeable. Take the time to say "Thank you!" and really mean it. Your friends and families will appreciate it and you will feel better about it too!
Next up: how to write a great thank you note...
Style Me Pretty
http://www.stylemepretty.com/2011/04/11/aspen-wedding-a-legend-of-the-hummingbird/