10 Played Out Wedding Songs!

There are a few songs that are played at weddings that if they never play them again it would be too soon! If you are like me, when you go to a wedding and certain songs are played you just hang your head and hope that the DJ's computer suddenly shuts off. Below are 10 of the most played out wedding songs.

1. My Girl: Don't get me wrong, My Girl is a very nice song and it's cute for the father daughter dance...or at least it was -____- now I fight sleep every single time I hear it.

2. All My Life: This song was cute when it first came out, but a million plays later and I want this song to die...much like K-CI and JoJo's career...opps did I say that...

3. Here Comes the Bride: Can we get a little more creative? I know this song is a stable wedding march, but would it be wrong to choose somthing that isn't so generic?

4. Macarena: Not sure if anyone is still playing this song but if you are, come with us into 2013 my love! Lets upgrade to the wobble or something.

5. Shout: Must I justify this?...oh ok...

6. Cha Cha Slide: This song is on its last leg, it may last one more year then it MUST be retired. Also why is it so LONG?!? Do we really need to walk it out for 20 minutes...sheesh!

7. Song for Mama: Men...I know you love your mom, but is this the ONLY song you can think of to dance with her? Sorry Boys II Men but i'm ready for this song to be deleted from all playlists

8. Happily Ever After: I actually really like this song...and so does every other African American couple getting married apparently...hence the problem

9. Celebration: Even though Kool & the Gang had hits, I still get the feeling of being in an old disco party which probably doesn't go with 90% of wedding themes.

10. We Are Family: If you need a song to get the two families to unite then you have bigger problems than bad music.

Music is really important at your wedding so make sure to hire a good DJ who has experience with weddings and not just special events. Its takes a talent to play music for different genres and get the right timing ques for the wedding reception program i.e. Entrance, First Dance, Father-Daughter Dance, Cutting the Cake, Send-Off, etc. Tired of the same old played out Wedding Ceremony songs too?! Add to the list by leaving the title and singer in the comment section!

Real {Texas} Wedding: Tiffany & Her African Prince Charming!

There's something about bringing two cultures together in a marriage. Like any other relationship it takes alot of love, patience and understanding. A friend of mine told me about a wedding she attending a couple months ago and said that it was beautiful to see two completely different backgrounds unite. The bride is African-American and the groom is from Sudan. Here are some pictures from their intimate wedding in San Antonio, TX. The Bride, Tiffany said "I choose to keep the feeling romantic, vintage, warm, and celebratory". Her wedding planner, Sandy Colon of Elegance by Sandy in San Antonio also created her gorgeous brooch bouquet.

How beautiful is this bridal brooch bouquet? I love how the design mixes different styles and colors without clashing.

In the vintage theme, the couple incorporated old jewelry boxes as center pieces with simple lavender roses. The tables were surrounded by brown wooden Chivari chairs which gave it a bit of a timeless feel. Each guest was given a favor bag with the note "Welcome to Our Wedding". Overall the decor was very simple but went with 

Love the personalized coaster cards on each table setting. It's a great way to add detail without spending too much!

Bling Bling! Never can go wrong with some sparkly wedding shoes or the bride's gorgeous wedding rings below! Brides make sure to work with your photographers to get all of your favorite shots on a list so that every detail is pictured for you to have and to hold after your special day!

 In the United States, a groom's cake is a wedding tradition typically associated with the American South. While a wedding cake may often be decorated in white and light in texture or color, the groom's cake can take a variety of forms, many incorporating chocolate similar to the one above. The theme of the cake table was bride and groom; from both cakes and the adorable matching tuxedo and wedding gown champagne bottle covers!

Congrats to the bride and groom! Your dreams came true and you had a wonderful wedding. I love this moment of the wedding when the two enter the room and take their positions on the dance floor, the music starts and they enjoy their first steps as husband and wife while getting lost in each other's eyes! 

Spring Into Classic Makeup!

 

Hola Beauties!

Here is a makeup look I did for a commercial shoot. What a beautiful canvas she was! Spring is all about clean, classic makeup that wears from day to night. Here are some quick tips on how you can re-create this effortless look:

1.) Cleanse, moisturize and apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 45 to your face.

2.) Use a tinted moisturizer or "BB Cream" which gives you light-medium coverage that is easy to wear and sheer in coverage.

3.) When choosing an eye shadow, use something that is neutral (meaning it is light in color and has a pink or peach undertone, never brown)

4.) Always use lots of mascara, 2-3 coats to be exact! (this will be the focus of your eyes, your eye shadow is solely there to compliment your mascara essentially)

5.) Choose a neutral blush (again something with a pink or peach undertone)

6.) Finish your fresh, spring look with a hydrating sheer lipstick of gloss.

VOILA! Here's to Putting Your Best Face Forward this Spring/Summer!

OWN & Tyler Perry D.C. Preview Party at B.Smith's

Last month I had the pleasure of working with one of my favorite D.C. Publicists, Candice Nicole PR and 135 St Agency for the D.C. preview party for Tyler Perry’s new scripted series “The Haves & Have Nots” and “Love Thy Neighbor,” on OWN: The Oprah Winfrey Network.

Favored by Yodit Events coordinated the floral decor for the event. The client wanted something simple and fresh within a reasonable budget and thanks to my good friends at Fluer we were able to make it happen just in time for Actresses Tika Sumpter (HHN) and Patrice Lovely (LTN) to sign autographs and meet and greet with guests.

The evening was filled with wine and cocktails and a quick Q&A at one of my favorite D.C. landmark establishments, B. Smith’s Restaurant located in The Union Station (Great place for weddings and large private events too!).

Loved watching the full episodes!

Press Info:

http://www.oprah.com/own-the-haves-and-have-nots/First-Look-The-Haves-and-the-Have-Nots-Video http://www.oprah.com/own-love-thy-neighbor/First-Look-Love-Thy-Neighbor-Video http://www.oprah.com/own/First-Look-Tyler-Perrys-Two-Night-Two-Series-Premiere-Video

Photos by: Surpass Visuals

Maryland Couple Gets Married at IKEA

After having their first date at IKEA in 2010, Julie Rodgers and Willie Pittman thought there wouldn't be a more perfect place for their wedding to take place. In April of this year, the College Park Maryland IKEA hosted it's first wedding. Customers were able to shop while the wedding was taken place. Ummm...i'm not really a fan of the IKEA wedding and I think getting married in a store while it is open is tacky lol but others may think it is cute. Above all I wish the couple well and hope thier marriage lasts a lifetime. Would you get married at IKEA?

Find your next wedding date on...Craigslist?

You can find furniture, cars, electronics, jobs and now dates on Craigslist. Personally this sounds like a scary way to find a date but for one man it seemed like the perfect platform.

The DC resident was desperate to find a date for the May wedding after his original date cancelled on him last minute. Instead of wasting a plate at the reception, he posted a want AD looking for someone who was interested in the YOLO motto for the night. He wrote:

If you're still reading here are the facts and why you should come:

- you only yolo once - you get to wear a dress - open bar & food all night

more fun facts about your potential date: - I have a degree - I have a job - I am a clean man - I have never been arrested - I don't like murder

lol...well at least he isn't a killer. I hope he found a date! Would you look for a date on Craigslist?

Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/05/17/craigslist-wedding-date_n_3294040.html?ncid=edlinkusaolp00000003

Orange Crush

Orange is a unique color often overlooked when brides and party planners are looking for a color scheme. It can be overwhelming but if done correctly, it is a beautiful addition and can bring life to any venue. Curious about how to add orange to your wedding but not sure how? Check out some inspiration below.

How NOT to Take Photos at Your Wedding!

I am all for creative wedding pictures. In fact my favorite photos are from couples that make sure their personalities shine through. HOWEVER these photos may be stepping across that fine line of creative and trashy lol. Take a look at some of the best of the worst wedding photos after the break.

For the full gallery check out: http://t.co/LiokYIInYQ. Enjoy!!!

Wedding Wednesday: Check out #FavoredVendor @DaVincisFlorist

As an event planner I get to work with alot of great vendors in the field. Monday night I had a floral design meeting with my client at the Da Vinci Florist offices in Silver Spring. This Maryland based event company has a huge warehouse filled with an assortment of wedding/ event rentals, bridal bouquet/ floral and lighting needs for any type of special party, corporate event, wedding ceremony & reception. Needless to say I was in awe and posted many of our design options on my instagram.  Cant wait to see the finished product in October at our client's #FavoredWedding. For more information visit http://www.davinciflorist.com and tell them Favored by Yodit Events sent you!

Here is a snapshot of their inventory and work:

Wedding Themes: Bollywood Bridal

Incorporating culture and family traditions to your wedding theme is a great way to make it a truly memorable event. Bollywood themed weddings are hands down one of my favorites. From the vibrant, bold and fun colors to the gorgeous detailing in the overall theme, what's there not to love about it.

I love how the fruit and flowers create such a statement, and look so fun and elegant at the same time.

For more depth, add even more rich colors like dark purple or plum.

Here are some more Bollywood themed wedding inspirations!

Even celebrities love it! Back in 2010, Katy Perry and Russell Brand got married in India. They celebrated with a Bollywood-themed party at the Aman-i-Khas. Check out the two elephants sitting outside the luxury resort where they tied the knot.

Whatever your next special occasion may be, make it daring, different and fun...BOLLYWOOD STYLE!!

Need Honeymoon Packing Suggestions? Find Paradise Here!

Last night I discussed Honeymoon Hot Spots with my October Bride, Casie for her and her fiance to go to after their wedding. Since most couples are busy getting ready for their weddings, they sometimes forget how much planning goes into honeymoon accommodations! I thought I would shed some advice on packing tips, things you might need to bring and stylish travel outfits, which can help strategize on what travel bride you are and how to pack and dress for summer travel accordingly. See something you like? Comment on the page for specific item details!

Simply follow this checklist of both major and easy-to-overlook essentials for an experience as lovely as when you both said, "I do."

Remember Your Travel Documents and Money.

If you’re going to forget something, forget your favorite watch, your socks you bought special for the trip or your iPod – you can still enjoy yourself without them. But do not, under any circumstances, forget any of the following:

• Passport: You’ll need this to get out of the country! Cover it up with a stylish passport case for safe keeping and to make it easier to find.
• Driver’s License/Photo I.D.: You’ll need this to get on the airplane and proving that you are the one who reserved the week at that luxe resort or glamping hotspot. Very necessary and easily stowed in a travel wallet.
• Tickets: Can’t get on the plane without them! Granted, you can often get by with just your photo I.D. at the airport, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Tuck that boarding pass away in a safe case, too.

And while you can always contact someone or do some online searches to recover important information, you should also bring along:

• Copies of Receipts and Reservations: Print them all out and load a .PDF file to your tablet to avoid any frustrating run-ins with the customer service counter.
• A Contact List: Prepare a list just in case you misplace your cell phone.

What Will You Wear?

Showing up with seven trunks full of your entire wardrobe is not going to cut it. However, unless you’re backpacking across Europe, you at least have room for a few options. Break down your clothing into categories to avoid over-packing or showing up with 11 tops, one pair of pants and a complete lack of underwear:

• Your Undergarments: Bras. Undershirts. Underwear. Boxers. Socks.
• Daywear: Pack light with mix-and-match items for a ton of outfit options without the heavy suitcase.
• Dressed-Up Nightwear: Throw in an all-black outfit and a pair of dress shoes, just in case.
• Footwear: Pack the two pairs you can’t live without. Add some comfortable shoes for your longer excursions.
• Accessories: Sunglasses. Scarves. Belts. Jewelry.
• Special Activity Wear: Hitting the beach? Pack a few bathing suits. Hitting the ski slopes? Remember your skiwear and accessories.
• Sleepwear: For those days when you’re so tuckered out you both pass out the moment your heads hit the pillow – bring some comfy loungewear like sweats or classic pajamas. You’ll be glad you did.
• Lingerie: That comfy loungewear isn’t very romantic!

Your Destination Might Not Carry Your Personal Care Items.

Guess what? That deodorant you finally found that does everything you want without making you smell like a bowl of tropical fruit – they just might not carry that where you’re headed. Bring the following:

• Medications: Over-the-counter and prescriptions.
• Toiletries: Toothpaste, toothbrush, soap, deodorant, shampoo and conditioner.
• Cosmetics: Makeup and hair products.
• Grooming Appliances: Electric shaver, hair dryer and flat iron.
• Eyewear And Accessories: Glasses, contacts, cases and contact solution.
• Travel Pillow: So underrated.

Keep Yourself Entertained And Charged.

Yes, you will certainly take up a good portion of your honeymoon looking lovingly into each other’s eyes but … there’s always the extremely long airplane ride and that moment when you realize your phone battery died and you forgot to bring your charger:

• Reading Material: A paperback was never such a welcome friend.
• Electronic Devices: All of that fun stuff you use – tablet, eBook and MP3 player.
• Chargers: For each electronic item, there is an ever-important charger.
• Power Converter: Your hair dryer’s plug might not be compatible with the hotel’s electrical outlets.
• Cameras: Your friends and family will expect pictures.
• SD Cards: You might take more pictures than you ever imagined possible.

Remember your honeymoon is the vacation most precious to you, signifying the very beginning of the rest of your life with the person you love most. While the destination is set and promises a peaceful, romantic break from the real world, the mere thought of packing is putting a bit of a damper on that glowing, ethereal quality of your soon-to-be honeymoon. Congrats & Enjoy!

Make Dad Feel Special on Father's Day!

As a self-proclaimed "Daddy's Girl" I absolutely love coming up with fun ideas to celebrate Father's Day that he will appreciate! No matter where I am in my life or who I get married too, my dad will always be the first man I loved to love me back!

One of my favorite quotes is "I'm my Daddy's Girl and my Mommy's World". It perfectly describes my relationship with both of my parents that I adore. But as my dad's youngest child I know that he has a little soft spot for me and have definitely used it to my advantage :) So its only right that I give readers some ideas on how to make your Father's Day special for your big guy!

1.) Honor all the father figures in your life with free eCards for Father's Day.

2.) Plan a fun activity or themed dinner party that he will enjoy!

3.) Find the Perfect Gift Idea on Pinterest. Try this Easy DIY BBQ Pack with homemade rub and sauce!

NEW Lovely Bride Opening June 15th in Georgetown!

 

On June 15, Lovely Bride DC is opening amongst the gorgeous cobbled streets of Georgetown. We can hardly wait for Washington brides-to-be to discover another great wedding vendor to make their special day even better!

Lovely DC is located in the oldest neighborhood in the District, Georgetown. Be sure to take some time to wonder among the cobblestone streets and gorgeous historic homes. The neighborhood is rich in D.C history, but also an amazing place to explore in search of wedding inspiration.

Happy #WeddingWednesay & Bridal Gown Shopping #DCBrides! Contact us for all your planning needs today! Lovely Bride’s new DC salon will be located at 1632 Wisconsin Ave NW, Second Floor Washington, DC 20007. For more information, visit www.lovelybride.com.

We Heart @JonathanAdler’s NEW! Bold @PaperlessPost Designs! You Will Too!

Even though I am obsessed with fine paper and invitations, I occasionally use and recommend Paperless Post! Its classy, easy and very affordable. So what better way to set the tone for your summer soiree or even wedding (Still frowned upon to send wedding email invites, but I sympathize with my budget brides so if you're gonna do it, do it fab!) than with a Jonathan Adler invitation? Paperless Post's latest collection with one of my favorite designers is going to be a sure hit! Jonathan Adler collaborates with online stationary company, Paperless Post, to create 50 new invitations and cards. Here are some of my personal favorites....

(Perfect for a Girl's Night Out!)

(How Cute! Love the Coral and Mustard Yellow Combo for a New Baby Girl. Tre Chic!)

(What better way to say your Crazy in Love!)

Wedding Wednesday: #FavoredVendors NextWed.com

This Friday, A new website called NextWeb.com will be launching to purchase and/or sell gently used, or new wedding items including Bridesmaid dresses!!

Via Heather the President, "If you have items you would like to post in advance of the launch, email pictures, descriptions and the price you want to sell it for to heather@hjplanners.com . There is no fee to list your item. If you would like to list your item after the launch, you can do so by setting up an account and posting the item."

No need to let all of those wedding items collect dust around your home, sell them! Let us know how the site worked out for you.

Sweet Inspirations for any Wedding Event

When you see M&M's typically you don't think of anything wedding related. However, Punchbowl teamed up with M&m's to inspire invitations, party decor and favors. Check out a few of Punchbowl's ideas below.

Table Decorations: To create custom table decorations for the engagement party, display personalized MY M&M’S® in tall martini glasses in the center of the table or at each place setting. Create an M&M’S® assortment in the wedding colors, and add a message or even a photo of the happy couple.

Personalized Favors: The easiest way to add a sweet personal touch to any wedding event is with personalized favors. When you order custom chocolate candies, you can send guests on their way with a delicious treat that commemorates the bridal shower. Place the chocolates in a pretty votive, tie with ribbon, add a monogram, and include a special note to guests. Each favor can be part of the place setting and guests will have a sweet reminder of this very special day.

Snacks & Sweets: Whether the bachelorette party will take place over the course of one night or an entire weekend, your guests will appreciate having snacks and sweets to nibble on during the festivities. To add class and elegance to your food table, set up a candy bar with large glass apothecary jars and metal scoops so guests can help themselves. Order personalized chocolate candies from MY M&M’S® featuring the bride’s wedding colors, a favorite saying, and even her photo! Label all the other food on the table with cute names like “Dan’s-a-Lucky-Man Dip” or “Bride-to-Be Bruschetta” to celebrate the guest of honor.

For the full M&M's inspiration from Punchbowl click here!

Bridal Collection Hits Target...Yes Target!

The last couple of weeks I have posted a few retailers that now have bridal collections. A few were shocking to me, but none were more shocking than the news that you can now buy Bridal Gowns and Bridesmaid Dresses at the one and only Target.

Target is known to have wide array of products, but I would have never guessed they would extend their brand to wedding dresses. I mean really...who would think to go to Target for their wedding dress? All of the dresses are priced below $130, so if you are on a tight budget Target may be the place for you. The dresses are very simple and could definitely be dressed up with accessories. I'm not a huge fan of the dresses, but you be the judge. Would you buy your wedding dress or bridesmaid dresses at Target?

Wedding Wednesday: From the Runway to Your Wedding

Now more than ever designers are expanding their brand to wedding services. Some have gone the obvious route and created a wedding dress line while others are creating accessories, and even wedding stationary. Oscar de la Renta is one high end designer that used his runway fashions as inspiration for a new line with Paperless Post. See some of his designs below.

Say YES to Bliss Spa

Are you a bride looking for spa services for yourself and your bridal party? Look no further than Bliss Spa located all over the country!

Worst Wedding Cakes

Typically when you go to the wedding, the cake is a huge part of the reception. Now only for a tasty treat, but also to add to the decor. Brides and Grooms spend a lot of time and money to pick the perfect cake for them. I have seen some not so pretty cakes in my time, but NONE compare to the cakes in this list put together by likes.com. Check out a few of the worst of the worst after the break.

 This cake would be perfect at a Holloween Party, at a wedding it's just creepy!

Did Neiman Marcus, Chanel, Blackberry or Christain Louboutin pay for the wedding? If not, dont do it! lol This would be more appropriate at a bridal shower, if done correctly.

I feel like Momma Dee would get this cake for Lil Scrappy's wedding lol. This is so ghetto and gross. If that money is real, bills carry a lot of bacteria and now its on my cake slice?! No thanks...but I will take a few dollars so I can get some real dessert somewhere else! lol

To see the full gallery of bad cakes click here!