Last Minute Valentines Day Gifts

courtesy of Bubble & Sweet

Valentines day is only days away. Do you have special plans with your sweetheart? Have you shopped for that “perfect” gift?

If not, we have some last minute ideas for your sweetheart:

• Candy and flowers is an easy way to go, but how about a box of french macaroons? Pretty in pink and drizzled with chocolate. Sounds yummy already!
• Chocolate bombs are the trend right now, with mini marshmallows hidden inside when it melts over hot milk. Surprise, surprise.
• There’s nothing more personal than a love note…..written from your heart. You’ll make your sweethearts heart full and gushing.
• Never underestimate the power of rose petals and candles. It sets the perfect aviance for love and happiness.

In this time of pandemic, remember the ones you love and to say “I love you” every day.

Happy Valentines Day!

Mary Homer, Fairy Tale Weddings by Mary

http://www.fairytaleweddingsbymary.com

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2021 Pantone Color of the Year

Every year Pantone chooses a color for the ear. It’s typically the “it” color for weddings, celebrations, and design. This year, 2021’s color is Ultimate Grey. You may ask, why? You should look at grey as a neutral color, like beige or white. Grey works with almost every other color on the color wheel. It’s also very popular right now in room designs and furniture. My own office is painted grey (surprise it’s the 2021 color of the year).

In planning your wedding, 2020 was a difficult year. Many weddings were canceled due to the pandemic or were down sized to micro weddings. However I’m convinced 2021 will be a much better year for brides and grooms. Grey decor and brides maid dresses will pop up for sure this wedding season. Use a pink sash or belt (or any color from your wedding color scheme) and you’ve transformed a simple grey gown into something special. But how else do use this color and what colors compliment this color?

When planning your wedding decor, using grey in your color scheme is fairly easy. Grey compliments pinks, greens, purples and even reds. It compliments most of the colors on the color wheel. You’ll find grey in table linens and runners/sashes for your guests tables and chairs. You can bring it in to your floral centerpieces with lambs ear filler and additional decor with pops of grey. Grey makes for a wonderful foundation to build your color scheme while making your wedding feel like you and your personality. Be creative. You may be surprised at the outcome and very, very happy you did.

Happy planning!

Fairy Tale Weddings by Mary

http://www.fairytaleweddingsbymary.com

Home Weddings vs Covid 19

We’ve all been impacted by the current pandemic involving Covid 19. However, remember we will celebrate again! Venues, dress shops, bakeries and all your wedding vendors will reopen. You can’t cancel LOVE! So let’s talk about “Plan B”.

You’ve planned your wedding packed full of fun and personality, down to the very last detail, ensuring your ceremony and reception will be a wonderful experience for your guests. Then everything closed and we had a “stay at home” order for essentially everyone near and far. Now what do you do with all those plans you worked so hard on? Do you postpone our wedding and reschedule? After all, no one plans fore a pandemic.

Consideration now moves to home weddings, especially if you have a back yard that is lush and park like. How do you pivot from a large, lavish celebration to an intimate home wedding?

First, I want you to know that you shouldn’t underestimate what you can do with a home wedding. The sky’s truly the limit. It will still be a great experience for your guests. However, here is where the real work begins if a home wedding is in your future:

1. Choose a new wedding date, even if it’s not your typical Saturday or Sunday. Midweek wedding dates are becoming popular and may make more sense for you and your guests.
2. Whether your backyard is large or small, you’ll need to revisit your guests list, as any location needs to be consider for maximum occupancy and comfort. No One envisions having to revisit their guests list; however our current times will likely require you to do so. So your guests list that was originally 100, 200 or even 300+ guests simply won’t be possible in a smaller space. This will be difficult, however remember many guests who were traveling distances or have compromised immune systems may not be able to attend at this point. Who do you want and need at your celebration? Additionally, be sure to check the local guidelines in your area to ensure you are in compliance.
3. Once you finalize your guests list, you’ll ant to coordinate with your vendors to determine who and what you’ll still need. You may need to revise y our contracts to add or remove services. If you’re working with a wedding planner, he/she will be your liaison with your vendors, handling any changes as needed. Remember your vendors are here to help you through the process, despite any changes.
4. Even though things may be a bit different now,, things will be okay. This is a celebration about you as a couple and your love for one another. Don’t sweat the small stuff (or the big stuff for that matter). So when you’re overwhelmed, which is to be expect and completely normal, take a deep breath and remember you are not in this along. You have vendors who will be there for you and if you have a wedding planner, he/she will be your rock, your sounding board and full of ideas to re-imagine this exceptional day for your.
5. Don’t be afraid to add a virtual component to your wedding ceremony, so guests who you couldn’t invite are able to share in your wedding day. Weddings may change a bit now, but people love to be a part of a love story and YOURS is the most important to them.
6. Self care at this point needs to be a priority. Enjoy a glass of wine with your BFF (even if it’s a Zoom call for now), share your concerns with your planner, family or friends so you have it off your chest (you’ll be surprised how much better you’ll feel) or exercise (whether gyms are open or not at this point). Taking care of YOU is a priority.
7. Lastly, don’t forget to relax and ENJOY your wedding day! Your wedding comes and goes in 4-6 hours but your love for one another will last a life time.

Happy planning during these changing times!

Mary Homer

Fairy Tale Weddings by Mary

http://www.fairytaleweddingsbymary.com

For the Love of Penguins

Have you ever wondered what do penguins know about love? Let me tell you…they know quite a bit and we could learn a lot from them.

Penguins will quite often dance for joy at the sight of their LOVED one.(Thus the wonderful movie Happy Feet comes to mind)

Penguins aren’t shy about sharing their love and will often sing their love for each other. Just like people in a lasting relationship, they find that hanging out with their partner or loved one is one of the greatest joy in life.

Did you know that Penguins stay with their mate for life? When Penguins find their soul mate, they stay their entire life with them, to the end. Penguins are monogamous, just like humans. They mate for life.

We show our affection for our spouse or girlfriend/boyfriend by kissing.  Penguins do the same thing, only with their beaks. They rub their beaks on their mate or preen their mates feathers as a sign of love.  Just like you or me, they close their eyes when they kiss.

So let’s love like a Penguin.  Love for life. Kiss with your eyes closed.

Mary Homer

Fairy Tale Weddings by Mary

http://www.fairytaleweddingsbymary.com

 

 

Favorite Valentine Gifts

What’s your FAVORITE Valentine gift?  Is is a red heart shaped box of chocolates?  Or does your special someone give you a special piece of jewelry to show his love and appreciation?

The most popular gifts include:

• Chocolates (candy makes the top of the list)
• Hallmark greeting card (full of sentiment and emotion)
• Going out for dinner or a movie (a little alone time never hurts)
• Flowers, particularly red roses are the flower of choice at this time of year, however tulips are becoming popular
• Jewelry rounds out the top 5 Valentine gifts (a sure winner for any special girl in your life)

Thoughtful and romantic Valentine gifts are perfect for your wife or girlfriend, but don’t forget your mom, daughter(s) or a special friend or family member.  Remember Valentines day isn’t about gifts, but about spending time with the ones you love.

Wishing you a fabulous Valentine Day my friends!

Mary Homer

Fairy Tale Weddings by Mary

http://www.fairytaleweddingsbymary.com

 

Top 8 Wedding Trends in 2019

The 2019 Wedding Season is in full gear and so are this years wedding trends. Here are the top 8 wedding trends we see for the upcoming season.

Cakes and desserts will have an artistic flair to their edible displays.  Macaroon towers provides height and drama while Croquembouche is elegant and enticing.  And let’s not forget the ever favorite cake pop displays, which can be ornate and lavish.  The visual interest will make these displays fun for your guests.

Grazing tables have been around for awhile, however they will become more elaborate.  My favorite include a wonderful array of breads, cheeses, meats, nuts, fruits and some sweet delights for sure.

Interactive Food Stations are staples for any wedding.  Entertaining your guests while they make a choice of food options keeps them engaged and makes their experience memorable.

Floral displays will be dramatic with gold rings and wooden beams.  They add that touch of drama you want for interest and depth.

      courtesy of Pretty Little Vintage Company

Custom signs are always a necessity for your guests.  This includes seating charts and mirrors, letter boards and inspirational escort cards.  Being creative is the best part for brides and grooms, as you get to show your personality.  Our recent clients traveled a lot and chose to use custom postcards for their guests escort cards.  It was personal to the couple and so much fun for their guests.

Copper will be oh so popular this wedding season.  Copper adds a modern touch and is so versatile with so many color schemes, including “Pantone’s Color of the Year” of Coral.  Whether it’s Coral or your favorite shade of Lilac or Pale Pink, Copper has the ability to incorporate itself effortlessly.

Centerpieces in wooden boxes will be popular and are chic.  They are simply so versatile.  They work well with weddings which are elegant, rustic or simply romantic.  They offer natural elements including plants, succulents, flowers, crystals and stones.

Favors are always a question I receive from clients. Should I or shouldn’t I?  Favors are still very popular, in particular edible favors.  Guests love something they can eat and enjoy.  So when thinking of favors don’t be afraid to think outside of the box with options like popcorn, maple syrups, spices, or oils.  Truffles are always a great favor, but thinking outside the box makes that favor fabulous!

So when planning your wedding, be sure it reflects you and is personal.  This is your day to share with family and friends and it should always be about you as a couple.

Happy planning!

Mary Homer

Fairy Tale Weddings and Events – http://www.fairytaleweddingsandeventsbymary.com

*article contributions from WeddingWire

*photo contribution by Pretty Little Vintage Company

 

 

You Can Rent That???

Are you planning a wedding or special event?  Looking for gorgeous, expensive centerpieces but are deterred by the initial sticker shock associated with purchasing each and every one of them? How will you ever afford them?  The answer is rentals.  If you can think of it, someone likely has it for rent, whether it’s centerpieces, stylish or modern furniture, or elegant linens.  Rentals are the perfect option.

(courtesy of Brianna Pisani @ The Pretty Little Vintage Company http://www.prettylittlevintageco.com)

We all know how expensive it can be to purchase a piece of furniture or elaborate linens for the holidays.  So think outside of the box.  What kind of items you may ask?  The sky’s the limit for rentals!  You will find furniture (numerous styles, colors and generations), accessories galore (suitcases, candle holders, pillows, books, boxes, tables and chairs, china, flatware, glassware and chargers to name a few) and lets not forget linens (whether elaborate or simple you will find many, many options).

(Photo courtesy of Alexandra Reed Photography/ Furniture courtesy of The Pretty Little Vintage Company http://www.prettylittlevintageco.com)

There are many companies providing you with the items you may need or want.  Local and out of town companies have a variety of items to view and rent.  So explore your options and if possible be sure to view the items prior to renting them.  This allows you to know the condition the items are in.  If you can’t inspect them, be sure to view a picture of the item and inspect it upon arrival.

This is a field that is growing exponentially. This option will allow you to stretch your budget with fabulous choices.  So be sure to dream big, even on a budget.

Love the photos in this post, be sure to check out http://www.prettylittlevintageco.com.

Happy planning!

Mary Homer – Fairy Tale Weddings & Events

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Sweets Desserts for Your Sweet Heart

Valentines Day is just around the corner. Have you gotten your Sweet Heart a little something special to show your love?  Here’s a very ideas I know you’ll enjoy.

• Sweets for my sweetheart

• It’s all about the conversation

• It’s all from the heart

• For your Fashionista!

• Cupids arrows for your heart
  

• Let’s keep healthy

• A little healthy and maybe alot of fun

 

• Cupcake heaven

Wishing you and yours a fabulous Valentines Day!

Mary Homer- Fairy Tale Weddings & Events

The Love Letter

Love is one of the most powerful emotions you can feel in your life.

With Valentines Day not so far away, the biggest day of love on the calendar, I thought I’d speak about the “Love Letter”.  When you’re in love, everything is pretty, everything is perfect.  Some say you look at life through rose colored glasses.  But does your special someone write you love letters?  Would you like your special someone to write you a love letter?

Love letters have been around since the end of time.  Whether simple or elaborate they convey that strong feeling of happiness, joy and contentment with your special someone.  Love letters come from the heart and are full of emotions and sentiment.  Whether on simple white paper, special parchment paper or even a napkin, you’re sharing your feelings and emotions with your special someone.  Don’t be afraid to say what you feel or express your vow of love.  It’s the perfect time of year for this, especially if you’re in a relationship with someone.  Whether you’re newlyweds or a couple who has been married for some time, sharing a “love letter” is the perfect gift, as it’s from your heart.  Those feelings and adorations can not be purchased in a store.  They are heartfelt and real.  That’s what makes them special and memorable.  That’s what makes them yours.

So as you think about Valentines Day (and everyday), why not write a special love letter to your sweetheart? He/she will love you for it and it’ll make for lasting memories.

Happy Valentines Day!

Mary Homer-Fairy Tale Weddings & Events

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2017 Newest Trend Setters

2017 is here and for anyone who is newly engaged or planning their wedding, you need to know the latest trends in weddings for the New Year.

Pantone’s Color of the Year for 2017 is “Greenery”, which is a soft, pretty shade of green. Green is not necessarily the color you initially think of for a wedding color scheme, but it can be so inviting and revitalizing. Green is a color of nature and symbolizes harmony, freshness and fertility.  Whether you’re planning a more natural, rustic wedding or something a bit more classic, green is the perfect color for you.  You can add this color in your decor, your bouquet or centerpiece florals and even favors.  Don’t be afraid of this color as it really does work.  Sprinkle it here and there and spread it around and throughout your wedding.  You’ll be happily surprised at how impactful this color can be.

Sophistication and romance is high on our list for the coming year.  Whether you’re planning a Bohemian, flowy, romantic wedding or you’re looking for polished sophistication, always bring it together with a beautiful balance of colors, prints, metals and wood.  Your linens are a great base to start and build from.

Speaking of linens lush and opulent linens will be everywhere.  Whether it’s an exquisite shade of gold (solid gold, rose gold), soft champagne, blush or taupe, all are on trend. Metallics are still very popular and in high demand.  Don’t be afraid to mix your metals.  It can be fun, exciting and oh so very glamorous! Whether it’s gold, silver, bronze or copper, they all work together. We’ve had the pleasure of working with this exact combination of metals and you’d be amazed at how beautiful it all works together.  (Thanks to the courtesy of Clark and Walker Photography, you’ll find a little bit of our work below).

(courtesy of Clark and Walker Photography)

Vintage and lace dresses are making a huge come back.  Remember what was old, is now new again.  It’s the same in the bridal world.  Do you have a vintage dress your mom wore for her wedding?  Re-envision it as your dress.  Be sure you find an experienced seamstress and let her work her magic! Looking for that “vintage look” or something with lace, check out your local bridal shops.  The service and expertise of the staff at your bridal shop will help you find that perfect dress you’ve always dreamed of.

If vintage and lace dresses are not your style, not to fear, dramatic and longer gowns are very popular.  Ball gowns are dramatic and full for you to make your entrance just as grand as you’ve always dreamed of.  And let’s not forget about the details on your dress.  It’s all about the details! So don’t overlook the lace, detailed beading, pearls and overlay.  Not just on your dress, but in your hair and all your accessories.

Flowy, long, simple hair is still the way to go ladies.  Soft up-dos with flowy hair resting on your neck and shoulders will speak volumes with any romantic, stylish wedding.  Whether your planning a rustic, natural wedding or an over the top event, soft up-dos are very popular this season.  It leaves an effortless look for you to love and looks fabulous in your photos.

Don’t forget about your make-up.  Make up will fluctuate between soft pastels and neutrals, as well as the “Vintage Hollywood” look, with black eyeliner and dramatic red lips.  What better way to say “I’m the bride” than with a bold and beautiful red lip?

Whether you’re just starting to plan your wedding or you’ve been planning for awhile, keeping up on the newest trends is a great way to gather inspiration!

Happy planning!

Mary Homer – Fairy Tale Weddings & Events