He popped the question and slipped a dazzling engagement ring on your finger! It's so shiny, so sparkly, so brilliant -- the last thing you'd ever want to do is nick it, chip it, gunk it up or knock it loose from its setting. You would never dream of letting your beloved ring meet with such fate. So, how do you care for such a precious symbol of your love? Here are some tips to keep it as beautiful as it was the day he asked you to his wife!
Take It Off. Believe it or not, caring for your ring occasionally means taking it off, such as during the following activities:
Playing sports. Holding a tennis racket tightly is particularly not good for a wedding band which has stones going all the way around -- especially if you're left-handed. As for taking your ring to the gym, lifting weights with it on can also be hazardous. You wouldn't want a 25-pound dumbbell making contact with your stone.
Gardening. It is possible to chip your diamond or knock the setting loose while doing heavy yard work.
Cleaning house. Harsh chemical soaps or cleansers can soil the ring. It's also a good idea not to wear your ring while doing the dishes.
Safekeeping. If you'll be taking your ring off to do the activities above, make sure you have a safe -- and memorable -- place to put it. Diamonds should be stored in their own separate box, pouch or jewelry compartment because they can scratch other pieces of jewelry.
Keep It Free From Lotion, Sunscreen And Perfume. These products can gunk up your diamond, and even etch colored gemstones. It's a good idea to take your ring off before you put these things on.
Have Your Setting Checked Regularly. Most jewelers recommend you have your setting checked every six months to make sure the stone hasn't been knocked loose, especially if it is particularly large.
Don't Swim In The Ocean. Cold water may shrink your fingers just enough to loosen the ring from your finger, and if you lose it in the deep blue sea, you won't be seeing it again. If you must, you may swim in a swimming pool with your ring -- at least the pool can be drained if it slips off your finger. Note, however, that while platinum can withstand virtually any chemical, experts advise not to expose gold or silver rings to the harsh chemicals found in swimming pools and spas -- the bands can become severely discolored over time.
Be Careful In The Kitchen. Cookie dough, turkey loaf, a piecrust… it's great to mix with your fingers. But these foods can leave a film on your ring and really affect its luster.
Keep It Clean. Most jewelers will clean your ring free of charge, so take advantage of this courtesy. If you don't have time to get to the jewelry store, there are a few ways to clean your ring at home.
Most jewelers suggests using a gentle dish detergent to clean lotion buildup from the bottom of the mounting. Simply scrub the top and bottom with a soft toothbrush and rinse several times in hot water. For extra shine, soak your diamond ring in a small bowl of ammonia diluted with three times the amount of water, and gently brush the top and bottom of the mounting with a soft toothbrush. Dip the ring into the solution again, then rinse in warm water several times to be sure to get all of the solution off. Note: If you do this over an open drain, use a strainer! You may set the ring on a soft towel to dry, or gently pat it dry.
Wedding Ring Prongs. To prevent loss of your stone, have a trusted jeweler inspect your engagement ring, provide a professional cleaning, and look over your prongs.
Insure Your Ring. God forbid that anything should happen to your ring -- we all know it's irreplaceable. However, it's important to have insurance just in case. Most insurance companies will include your ring under your homeowner's insurance, although you can always insure it separately if you wish.
Take care of your ring, and it will always be as dazzling as it was the day you said "Yes!" Link
Monday, October 27, 2014
Monday, October 20, 2014
Invitations 101
The first Invitations 101 workshop was this past Saturday and was put together by Jennifer Faught of Something Detailed and Kimberly Washington of paperKuts Studio-Great Job Ladies! We can't thank them enough for including us in this fun-filled, informative workshop for brides! Paper and planning questions were answered and Bride's were also treated to yummy cookies by Stacy Woods of Stace Bakes and a make-up demonstration by Taylor Owens! Looking forward to the next endeavor with these talented Ladies!
Taylor Owens
Monday, October 13, 2014
Don't Miss This!
Join us at paperKuts Studio on October 18th for an afternoon of de-stressing about your invitations, guest list and planning questions. You'll learn how to tackle your guest list, what pieces of an invitation you need, proper but un-snobby etiquette rules, how to budget for paper and what to know before you start your search. Also, Decadent Details Events will be available for any event questions you may have about your big day.
If you're a 2015 bride, you don't want to miss this! Plus, we will have some delightful surprises, gifts and cocktails along the way Bring your mom, a friend or your MOH and take the stress out of inviting and planning!
If you're a 2015 bride, you don't want to miss this! Plus, we will have some delightful surprises, gifts and cocktails along the way Bring your mom, a friend or your MOH and take the stress out of inviting and planning!
Please RSVP here: https://stationeryacademy.wufoo.com/forms/invitations-101-a-rsvp/
Hope to see you there!
Monday, October 6, 2014
Invitation & Planning Questions Answered!
Join us at paperKuts Studio on October 18th for an afternoon of de-stressing about your invitations, guest list and planning questions. You'll learn how to tackle your guest list, what pieces of an invitation you need, proper but un-snobby etiquette rules, how to budget for paper and what to know before you start your search. Also, Decadent Details Events will be available for any event questions you may have about your big day.
If you're a 2015 bride, you don't want to miss this! Plus, we will have some delightful surprises, gifts and cocktails along the way Bring your mom, a friend or your MOH and take the stress out of inviting and planning!
If you're a 2015 bride, you don't want to miss this! Plus, we will have some delightful surprises, gifts and cocktails along the way Bring your mom, a friend or your MOH and take the stress out of inviting and planning!
Please RSVP here: https://stationeryacademy.wufoo.com/forms/invitations-101-a-rsvp/
Hope to see you there!
Monday, September 29, 2014
Open Bar Budget-Friendly Ideas!
Generally the cocktail hour is located in the main ballroom, foyer, or patio. Upbeat background music is played for the guests as they mingle, snack on appetizers (hot & cold) and refresh themselves at the hosted bar. Hosted bar a little out of the budget?
There are lots of chic ways around this problem. Host the cocktail hour by offering two signature drinks to your guests! The drinks can be pre-made and elegantly served with beautiful garnishes. We have had couples choose "His & Her" options, cocktails named for the "Maid of Honor & Best Man", or cocktails based on the occasion like "Something Borrowed & Something Blue". Print up the recipe for your signature drink, add one of the ingredients, dress it up in a pretty package and it now does "double duty" as a favor for your guests. Win, win for your budget & your guests!
Another option to making your guests feel well taken care of and still keeping within the budget, offer a signature drink during cocktail hour and during the reception offer wine and local beers from the area. Offer a cash bar for those who prefer something different then wine & beer. We also love the idea of offering champagne for the toast! It's a very intimate way to invite your guests to celebrate with you!
Whichever option you decide for your bar, make it unique and special to the two of you!
Monday, September 22, 2014
Rain on Your Wedding Day
Even though it's supposed to be good luck for it to rain on your wedding day, every Bride hopes it doesn't happen to her, especially if she plans a beautiful outdoor soirée! Although rain does change the original plan & look, it doesn't have to be the disaster you probably imagine.
When considering an outdoor wedding and reception, we encourage our couples to choose a venue which also has an out of the weather "Plan B" they love just as well!
This couple had plans to get married under a tree in the front yard of this venue and host their reception in this pavilion. Unfortunately Mother Nature had a different plan...they took it in stride and both agreed it didn't matter where they pledged their love for each other.
Their "Plan B" was breathtaking.
If an indoor option is not available at the venue you have fallen in love with, tents can provide shelter from the elements and can be dressed up to be quite beautiful! Look at these gorgeous options for ceremony and reception!
If there's a chance of rain, we also suggest purchasing umbrellas to coordinate with your color scheme for the "just in case". They are a cute option if your ceremony is outdoors and the reception is inside. Umbrellas also make for an adorable photo op for you and your new husband!
When considering an outdoor wedding and reception, we encourage our couples to choose a venue which also has an out of the weather "Plan B" they love just as well!
This couple had plans to get married under a tree in the front yard of this venue and host their reception in this pavilion. Unfortunately Mother Nature had a different plan...they took it in stride and both agreed it didn't matter where they pledged their love for each other.
Their "Plan B" was breathtaking.
If an indoor option is not available at the venue you have fallen in love with, tents can provide shelter from the elements and can be dressed up to be quite beautiful! Look at these gorgeous options for ceremony and reception!
If there's a chance of rain, we also suggest purchasing umbrellas to coordinate with your color scheme for the "just in case". They are a cute option if your ceremony is outdoors and the reception is inside. Umbrellas also make for an adorable photo op for you and your new husband!
Remember this is the first day of the rest of your life together...even if it rains! Make the best of it and enjoy each other in your celebration of love!
Monday, September 15, 2014
Spring 2015 - Pantone's Top 10
Pantone introduced their top 10 colors for Spring 2015 and the overall color palette is muted with blues and greens taking center stage! .
It's no secret we LOVE, LOVE, LOVE shoes, chocolate & wine! Since shoes are the only one of those three which come in an array of beautiful colors, we thought we'd showcase our take on Pantone's 2015 Spring colors in some of our favorite styles.
Besides shoes, there are so may ways to incorporate these beautiful colors into your event! We are so excited to help you with the design of the day of your dreams!
Glacier Gray - This neutral color is a perfect partner to almost every other shade
Marsala - This color is warm without being bold while still keeping earthy roots
Tangerine - This fun-loving cover invites a smile.
Custard - This mellow color remains subtle and relaxed while adding warmth
Classic Blue - This color inspires calm, confidence and harmony.
Lucite Green - This color has a minty, timeless glow.
Strawberry Ice - This subtle and charming color evokes a flattering and healthy glow.
Aquamarine - This color conveys a sense of carefree playfulness.
Toasted Almond - This color is timeless and versatile.
Scuba Blue - This eye-catching color is exciting and playful.
It's no secret we LOVE, LOVE, LOVE shoes, chocolate & wine! Since shoes are the only one of those three which come in an array of beautiful colors, we thought we'd showcase our take on Pantone's 2015 Spring colors in some of our favorite styles.
Besides shoes, there are so may ways to incorporate these beautiful colors into your event! We are so excited to help you with the design of the day of your dreams!
Glacier Gray - This neutral color is a perfect partner to almost every other shade
Marsala - This color is warm without being bold while still keeping earthy roots
Tangerine - This fun-loving cover invites a smile.
Custard - This mellow color remains subtle and relaxed while adding warmth
Classic Blue - This color inspires calm, confidence and harmony.
Lucite Green - This color has a minty, timeless glow.
Strawberry Ice - This subtle and charming color evokes a flattering and healthy glow.
Aquamarine - This color conveys a sense of carefree playfulness.
Toasted Almond - This color is timeless and versatile.
Scuba Blue - This eye-catching color is exciting and playful.
Monday, September 8, 2014
You've Been Invited!
You've been honored with a wedding invitation. Acting the part of a gracious, respectful guest is so important when you are invited to share someone’s big day with them. We thought we would share some pointer's from Emily Post's Wedding Etiquette so you can charm the bride and groom!
1. RSVP. Immediately.
RSVP is French for “please respond” (répondez s’il vous plaît). Your most important obligation as a guest is to respond to the invitation immediately, especially if you are unable to attend. At the very least, it allows your host and hostess enough time to give an accurate count to the caterer. There is usually a card to return with your reply. If not, you may write a formal reply or a note indicating your intention.
2. Respect your invitation.
Do not ask your host or hostess if you can bring a date or your children. The invitation will be addressed to the people invited. If you may bring a guest, your invitation will read “Mr. John Phelps and guest.” If your children are invited, they will either receive their own personal invitations or their names will be listed under yours on the envelope. This is not the time to question your host’s decision, to argue or to beg for an exception. And, please, do not add their names to a reply card or show up with them anyway!
3. Send a gift.
If you are invited to the ceremony and/or reception, you should send a gift, whether you are attending or not. Generally, gifts are sent to the bride in advance of the wedding. In some localities, gifts are brought to the reception and placed on a special table. If you hear from family that the couple would prefer a charitable donation—as in the case of an older couple or an encore wedding—please respect their wishes. If you receive an announcement after the wedding has taken place, you may send a gift if you wish, but you have no obligation to do so. It is nice to acknowledge the announcement with a card or a note expressing your best wishes.
4. Be on your BEST behavior.
4. Be on your BEST behavior.
Be on time, wear appropriate clothing and be respectful during the marriage ceremony. Pay your respects to the hosts, the wedding party and other guests at the reception.
And remember—
“The good guest is almost invisible, enjoying him- or herself, communing with fellow guests, and, most of all, enjoying the generous hospitality of the hosts.”
— E. Post
Link
Every wedding is different, however these tips are pretty universal. Keep them in mind, and have fun celebrating the new Mr. & Mrs.!!
Link
Every wedding is different, however these tips are pretty universal. Keep them in mind, and have fun celebrating the new Mr. & Mrs.!!
Monday, September 1, 2014
Adam & Leah
Every wedding touches our hearts but this one was a particular tearjerker and emotionally-attached wedding: the wedding of Susan's brother and beautiful wife-to-be!
Despite the tears and the reason behind them, it was absolutely the happiest day. Guests traveled from all over the U.S. to share this day of love and celebration! We were all beaming from morning into the night.
Adam & Leah tell their story...
How We Met
Since Adam works in the
drilling industry, work kept him away from home on Valentine's Day. When he
came home for his week off, he told Leah to pack a couple days’ worth of
clothing, including one nice outfit. After Leah's day at work, they were off to
this secret escape. We arrived in Midway, Utah, where Adam had reserved the
bridal suite at the Homestead Resort, and had made a crater soaking and dinner
reservations for the day. After the soak (which was incredible) we got ready
for dinner and were off to a little place called the Blue Boar Inn. We enjoyed
dinner and drinks, and Adam kept wanting to say something. So, I asked what he
was trying to say, and he went into how incredible our last year was together,
and how we were essentially perfect for each other. From there, he got up,
walked behind me, and got down on one knee right in the middle of the
restaurant! I (obviously) said "yes", but we both decided not to plan
anything until I was finished with school. So, in mid-May, I bought my
dress (well, mom did) and from then on we have been planning like crazy!
Wedding Planning
As a couple we enjoy romantic and intimate evenings out together. We
wanted to create a simple and elegant atmosphere for our wedding to capture how
we enjoy spending our time together. Our families and friends are important to
us, and we chose to invite the closest of our family members and friends to
create an intimate celebration. We wanted Love to be the theme of the wedding,
and with inspiration from Leah's mom, we chose to use wedding photos from our
family to showcase the Love of the people that have influenced our lives. We spent much time calling & texting Susan discussing details of our upcoming wedding day. For
the rest of the decorations, we still wanted to keep it simple and elegant, so
we chose rose petals, dim lighting, and minimal wall decorations. Our
venue is a stage, and provided the needed lighting, wood floors, and large
window for viewing Christmas lights and ice skaters. Our cake was also stripped
down and beautiful. For the cake we wanted it to be lightly iced, resembling a
birch tree, and decorated lightly with flowers. All of the flowers used for the
wedding, including bouquets, were handpicked by Leah at the florist. She loves
wild Iris and white Freesia, and we were able to incorporate them beautifully
into flower arrangements for the sign in table and bouquets. For the ceremony,
we wanted something simple to express our Love for each other. We planned an
intimate ceremony to include a hands ceremony, and also a rose ceremony that
involved our mothers participation.
What inspired you when planning your big day?
We always wanted something small and intimate with only our family and close friends. We went through a lot of magazines trying to get ideas, but everything we saw was grand, elaborate designs which didn't match our wants and needs. We followed our hearts and ended up with something more beautiful then we could ever imagine!
What was your favorite part of the day?
In reality, both the ceremony and reception were (at least our) favorite part of the day! Getting to experience this with the one that you commit your life to...how is it not amazing?
What advise do you have for other couples?
Take it all in! It all goes by so incredibly fast you feel like you only saw your guests for 10 minutes. Also make sure you eat something at the reception! I remember getting to eat dinner, but only having a bite of the cake my husband and I shared when we cut it!
Wedding Planning
As a couple we enjoy romantic and intimate evenings out together. We wanted to create a simple and elegant atmosphere for our wedding to capture how we enjoy spending our time together. Our families and friends are important to us, and we chose to invite the closest of our family members and friends to create an intimate celebration. We wanted Love to be the theme of the wedding, and with inspiration from Leah's mom, we chose to use wedding photos from our family to showcase the Love of the people that have influenced our lives. We spent much time calling & texting Susan discussing details of our upcoming wedding day. For the rest of the decorations, we still wanted to keep it simple and elegant, so we chose rose petals, dim lighting, and minimal wall decorations. Our venue is a stage, and provided the needed lighting, wood floors, and large window for viewing Christmas lights and ice skaters. Our cake was also stripped down and beautiful. For the cake we wanted it to be lightly iced, resembling a birch tree, and decorated lightly with flowers. All of the flowers used for the wedding, including bouquets, were handpicked by Leah at the florist. She loves wild Iris and white Freesia, and we were able to incorporate them beautifully into flower arrangements for the sign in table and bouquets. For the ceremony, we wanted something simple to express our Love for each other. We planned an intimate ceremony to include a hands ceremony, and also a rose ceremony that involved our mothers participation.
What inspired you when planning your big day?
We always wanted something small and intimate with only our family and close friends. We went through a lot of magazines trying to get ideas, but everything we saw was grand, elaborate designs which didn't match our wants and needs. We followed our hearts and ended up with something more beautiful then we could ever imagine!
What was your favorite part of the day?
In reality, both the ceremony and reception were (at least our) favorite part of the day! Getting to experience this with the one that you commit your life to...how is it not amazing?
What advise do you have for other couples?
Take it all in! It all goes by so incredibly fast you feel like you only saw your guests for 10 minutes. Also make sure you eat something at the reception! I remember getting to eat dinner, but only having a bite of the cake my husband and I shared when we cut it!
All of their planning was done with beauty, simplicity, and Love in mind. We are so honored Leah & Adam asked us to be a part of their special day and allowed us to orchestrate everything they had planned together with Love!
Cake
Florist
Officiant
Guest Book (Signature Plate)
Monday, August 25, 2014
"First Look" or Not?
Many couples contemplate whether or not to have a "First Look" or to stick with tradition and not see each other before the Bride walks down the aisle.
The origin of this tradition started during the time when arranged marriages were custom, the betrothed couple wasn’t allowed to see each other before the wedding at all. The wedding symbolized a business deal between two families - romantic, huh?, and a father would have been pleased for his daughter to marry a man from a rich, land-owning family. But he also feared that if the groom met the bride before the wedding and thought she wasn’t attractive, he’d call off the wedding, casting shame onto the bride and her family. Therefore, it became tradition that the bride and groom were only allowed to meet at the wedding ceremony so that the groom did not have the opportunity to change his mind. And that veil the bride wears? Its original purpose was also to keep the groom from finding out what the bride looked like until the last possible minute, when it was too late to back out of the transaction.
Today although arranged marriages are no longer common, most brides still don’t want their groom to see them before the wedding. Many believe it makes the day more exciting and memorable. However, some couples feel they’ll be more relaxed if they see each other for just a few minutes before the ceremony. The added bonus is that you can take your formal pictures pre-ceremony when everyone is freshly done-up. Some couples opt for somewhere in between where they are either blindfolded or hold hands around a corner. This is our personal favorite because it's so sweet & romantic! Here are some of our favorites of each style! Link
Traditional "First Look"
Somewhere In Between "First Look"
Modern "First Look"
Whether or not To do a "First Look" is completely up to the two of you!
We'd love to hear what you and your fiancé plan to do!
Sunday, May 4, 2014
Happy 1 Year Anniversary, TraVonda & Terrance!
TraVonda and Terrance met in ’05 while attending Middle Tennessee State University and continued to date when TraVonda moved to North Carolina in ’08 to pursue her career as a Physician's Assistant at Rural Care Health Group. Although TraVonda tried to find a reason for Terrance not to be Mr. Right, she couldn’t. These two are definitely a "perfect" match!
TraVonda and Terrance's classy, elegant style shined in every detail of their beautiful wedding! From their gorgeous wedding rings to the elegantly choreographed "First Dance"! Everything was absolutely breathtaking!
 |
| Monogramed Favors displayed in a Champagne Tower |
 |
| Elegant Florals by Belles Fleurs |
 |
| Their Breathtaking 1st Dance |
We have enjoyed watching your love grow over the last year and know it will only continue to grow stronger with each passing year! We thank you for letting us be a part of your beautiful day!
Happy 1st Anniversary, TraVonda & Terrance!
■
Photographer
– Scoobie’s Photographic Images
■
Videographer
– Chris Wheeler Films
■
Florist –
Belles Fleurs
■
Paper
Details – Something Detailed
■
Cake
– Delicately Done
■
Caterer
– Ribbons of Chocolate
■
Ceremony
Musician – Saxophone – Cord Martin
■
Ceremony
Musician – Nathan Harrison
■
Reception
DJ - Justin Richardson
■
Bride’s
Hair – Jlarae Beautiful
■ Make-up – Lisa Davis
■ Officiate - Pastor
Rodney Johnson
■ Draping – Blue Nova
■ Lighting - Bright Event Productions
■
Bartender
– Poppin Bottles
■
Venue
– Noah Liff Opera Center
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