So you're engaged...now what?? Part 1
Katie Berger Wednesday, February 8, 2012 at 9:00AM I have lots of brides contacting me panicking because they are engaged and now have no idea what to do next. As a wedding planner (and generally chatty person), I love this question because it means that I get to give my solicited opinion! There is nothing better than someone asking for your professional advice and (hopefully!!) taking it. I can't promise the last part however. Here is a beginning checklist for the first month of your newly engaged (or just when you decided to start planning) life.
1. Decide on a budget.
This is huge! This is the basis for nearly every decision you will make from here on out. Please, please, please be realistic. We know that you aren't Starr Jones or Kim Kardashian (and thank goodness for that) and won't have an unlimited budget or vendors giving you services in exchange for free press. I am sorry to have to break it to you but it's the truth. Look at your finances; speak with your parents if they have agreed to help (lucky you!) and no matter what, talk with you fiancé and make sure that you both agree. I know it may not be fun but it's really important. Whatever you agree upon expect that you will go above this number. Don't just expect, plan on it...pad your budget so that if you come upon your dream dress (here's mine!)
you will be able to afford it. Carolina Herrera isn't cheap ladies!
2. Book a venue.
When I got married nearly six years ago (my time does fly!), this was one of my favorite experiences. I loved browsing the internet and dreaming about all of the potential places that I would be married. It was heaven. We looked at about eight venues and finally decided on a private beach house located in the old section of Myrtle Beach, SC. As soon as I walked in, I knew it was THE place. My search was over. We rented it for a week, had our bridal party stay (it was a HUGE home, sleeping 16 - just the perfect size to fit everyone and their spouses) and had the wedding in the equally huge yard that backed up the dunes and the ocean. Here is a view of the ceremony.
I kept the decor very simple (as you can see) because the view was better than anything I could have made. So, whether you are going for a country club or catering hall or private beach house, pick something you love...something that will make you smile nearly six years and two children later.
Check back next Wednesday when I will be discussing booking the major vendors!
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For more information on Wedding and Event Planning, please visit our website at the Sheffield School.
Katie is the Wedding and Event Planning Student Advisor and owner of Sara Kate Events.
4 Comments | Share Article Weddings 6 Feng Shui Tips to Make Your Bedroom Better
Sheffield Admin Tuesday, February 7, 2012 at 9:00AM
1. Get an overall impression.
2. Start to be more mindful of your bedroom.
Do you thank your bedroom? Or do you use every furniture top as a place to house a week-long pile of laundry, the past three days accumulation of worn outfits, and stacks of unopened mail. You need to treat your bedroom with respect so it can nourish you.
3. You need a new mattress.
Make sure you have a comfortable mattress and make sure that it's one that is new to you … meaning it wasn’t someone else’s first. Mattresses absorb Chi, the universal life force. So sleeping on someone else’s old mattress may not make you feel so new and rejuvenated. Yes, getting a new mattress may be a financial investment, but in the longrun, it's well worth it. We have to proclaim we are “well worth it” by investing in something for us.
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6 Comments | Share Article bedroom, clutter, mattress in Feng Shui 8 Top Color Sources to Help You Decorate Your Home
Jay Johnson Monday, February 6, 2012 at 9:00AM
Fashion and design experts and product manufacturers come out at the start of each new year with their color trend prognostications. They group colors together into compelling "stories" aimed at attracting consumers. If you're a homeowner, or someone who's interested in Interior Design, you should pay attention to these color trends ... but with a grain of salt.
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4 Comments | Share Article Top 5 Super Bowl Party Ideas
Katie Berger Thursday, February 2, 2012 at 10:46AM Being the sweet Southern girl that I am (and former head cheerleader) it is often assumed that I love football ... well, I do! I love everything about it from pee-wee to professional, I adore it. The best part is rooting for your favorite team from the stands surrounded by other crazy fans. However, if you aren't able to actually be in Indianapolis then here are five fun Super Bowl party ideas. Go Giants!
1. Snacks
This comes from Tastefully Entertaining and makes me very hungry! Click here for the recipes.
2. Dessert
I adore cake pops. They are very cute and (fairly) easy to make. These adorable football shaped pops are from Love and Butter.
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