Fabulous Finds Under Fifty $

Besides my love for weddings, there is one other thing that I feel pretty passionate about...fashion. Not so much of the "run-way stuff" but more-so of the "everyday stuff." Since people often ask me where I purchase certain outfits, I thought a great addition to my blog would be a bi-weekly post on my latest fabulous finds under fifty (dollars). I am a huge advocate on mixing inexpensive items with nice classic pieces. With the current economy, so many great designers are creating clothing and accessories for a fraction of the price. So there's no reason you can't look like a true fashionista- at least on certain occasions.

Be sure to leave me your feedback: Is this a good idea/not so good idea? If there are certain items you want me to "find." Or if I should just stick to what I know best- weddings. I look forward to seeing where this goes but for now.....

$28.99 Click Here

$46.08 Click Here

$32.00 Click Here

$29.80 Click here

$36.95 Click Here

Bridesmaid and Groomsmen Gift Ideas

Finding the perfect item to give your wedding party can be tough. A lot of people think that they have to give each bridemaid or groomsmen the same exact thing- which isn't the case at all. To me, a gift means more when it is something personal and "one-of-a-kind." It is also challenging to find something unique, that no one has received before. Instead of going that route, try sticking with things that are practical and will be worth spending your money on. Gifts like jewelry, bags, and purses are things that I have personally received as a bridemaids gift and have used over and over again. Don't wait until the end of your engagement to make these purchases, after the majority of your wedding budget is already spent. Take your time, shop around, and find a wonderful way of thanking your wedding party for being involved in such a significant day. Here are some fabulous bridesmaid and groomsmen gift ideas to get you started.

Bridesmaids Gifts: Personalized tanks and tees, Bridal make-up kit, pink tool box, towel and tote, cute clutches, Philisophy bridal party bath set, bridesmaids wish necklace and other fun jewelry, luggage tags, leather checkbook or passport covers, and a bridesmaid survival kit of all the necessary wedding day items they will need.

Groomsmen gifts: Cufflinks, golf items, steak brander of your favorite sports team, mugs, flasks and one of the coolest things I have seen in a while: a cooler/seat all-in-one (perfect for tailgates and other sporting events).

Your Very Own Wedding Website

Creating a wedding website is a great way to share information with your guests and keep them updated throughout your wedding planning process. A personalized wedding website is especially helpful for destination weddings since there are so many details to relay to your guests. Registry information, accomodations, photos, pre-wedding events, attendants, and a little story of how the two of you met, are some of the items you may wish to include. A wedding website allows your guests to feel involved and get excited about your big day. Best of all, there are many user-friendly websites out there that are very easy to create and use. Here are some great resources for you to check out: www.ewedding.com www.weddingwindow.com www.weddingtracker.com.

Congratulations Meghan and Jeremy!

I couldn't help but to share this one with you all, as it holds such a special place in my heart. Believe it or not, Meghan has been one of my very best friends since Kindergarden! I have also known Jeremy for many, many years. The moment I saw Meghan and Jeremy together, I knew it would only be a matter of time before I was helping them plan their Big Day. And what a big day it was! With a wedding party of 20 people (including myself) everything felt like one big party. You can see from the photos below what an awesome time everyone had while celebrating the union of these two amazing people.

The ceremony took place at Allen Kryger Park in Lakeland, FL and the reception was held at the Magnolia Building. The bright and funky colors and patterns fit Meghan to the "T." I was so proud of all of the wedding items that she hand-made, including the invitations, programs, favors, seating chart, table numbers and guest book. I loved the bridesmaid's sashes and the groomsmen's ties that were made from a fabric that Meg absolutely adored.

I would personally like to thank Tina Sargeant for the AMAZING photography that she provided for Meghan and Jeremy's wedding day. She did such a fantastic job- as always. I just can't say enough wonderful things about Tina. The brilliant Elegante Films captured the beautiful day on video. I cannot wait to see the masterpiece that they have created for Meghan and Jeremy- they are FABULOUS. A Premier Entertainment provided the perfectly pink uplighting (Thank you, Thank you, Thank you) and Olympia Catering provided the food and the truly professional service staff. We loved the ladies at Robyn Lynne where the bride's dress and the bridesmaid's dresses were purchased. Last but not least, I would like to thank my best friends Meghan and Jeremy for allowing me to be such a big part of their special day. I love you both so much and I could not be happier for the two of you. Best wishes!

Wedding Inspiration: Jewel Tones

I truly empathize with all brides out there when it comes to choosing your wedding colors. It's a HUGE decision! Seeing new ideas in magazines or on the Internet can easily change your mind or have you second guessing your color choices. The jewel tone color scheme is one that I absolutely love. Amethyst, Emerald, Ruby, and Amber are all so rich, elegant and beautiful. The options are entirely endless with these wedding colors. Really rock it out by adding jewel embellishments to all of your wedding details: invitations, programs, centerpieces, cake, table numbers, etc. etc. etc.!

Upcoming Tampa Bridal Show

Calling all brides and grooms! Don't miss the First Annual New Tampa Bridal Show on Sunday, September 20, 2009. This elite exhibit featuring some of Tampa's top wedding vendors will take place at Tampa Palms Golf and Country Club from 1-4pm. Photographers, Florists, Stationers, DJ's, Linens, Cakes, Decor, Rentals and much more! Check back soon for further details and be sure to stop by the Olivier Events booth to view the goods. Tickets can be purchased at http://www.tampa-palmscc.com/.

Latest Event Technology- Texting while Partying

A friend of mine recently returned from a national event where she participated in something that was right up my alley. It is the latest technology to hit the event industry. The system allows guests to send text messages to a designated telephone phone number which would then be projected onto a large screen at your event. The messages are moderated before being sent to the "screens." Best part is that no one knows who is texting what- unless you choose to identify yourself in your text. This concept is perfect for any type of event- even weddings! Guests can text:

Well wishes to the bride and groom or person of honor
Song requests to the DJ
Their mini "toast" for the evening
Questions to fellow party goers such as
"Who is the best dancer" or "Who is the cutest couple"
"Shout-outs" or "Thank yous"
Anything you can imagine!


This concept is being offered by several venues, DJ's and entertainment companies throughout major cities. The screen can be customized with colors or images of your choice. I can't wait to experience this for myself....how exciting!

Sylvia Weinstock comes to Tampa

Sylvia Weinstock, “Queen of Cakes,” makes a special appearance as the featured presenter for Florida West Coast NACE! Brides, Grooms, and all industry professionals- YOU WILL NOT WANT TO PASS UP THIS OPPORTUNITY!

September 21, 2009 at 12:30pm

The Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, 1010 North W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa

Individual Lunch Presentation tickets are available, OR you can purchase a VIP Ticket to attend a private “living room style” gathering with Sylvia (limited seating). Included with each VIP ticket is Sylvia Weinstock’s book and an autograph signing. Combo Tickets are also available for this event!

NACE Members can register early until July 31st, 2009. Tickets will go on sale to the public starting August 1st, 2009. Buy your tickets early for this exclusive event at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center!

For additional information contact programs@fwnace.com or membership@fwnace.com

Contemporary Color Combination: Slate Grey and Aqua

I absolutely love this inspiration board that was created by Wedding Paper Divas. This color combination of slate grey and aqua is very chic, sleek and OH so PRETTY. Coming across this post definitely reconfirmed my love for the color grey! I predict that this will be one of the hottest color combinations for 2010.

http://blog.weddingpaperdivas.com/inspiration-board-slate-grey-and-aqua/

Waldorf Astoria Orlando

I recently had the opportunity to take a "hard-hat" tour of the brand new Waldorf Astoria opening in Orlando, FL this fall. The only word that comes to mind is AMAZING! Every inch of the Bonnet Creek property is adorned with the most beautiful details that one can envision. The ballroom is absolutely breathtaking! Continuing in the traditions that were established by the storied Waldorf Astoria® New York in 1931, the Waldorf Astoria Orlando will be the quintessential wedding venue for society's elite. With impeccable service, unparallel amenities, and scenery that is "to die for", the draws of having your wedding or event at the new Waldorf Astoria- Orlando are clear. Visit their website at http://www.waldorfastoriaorlando.com/ for more information.

Amazing Video!

In the spirit of Queen for a Day and all of the other organizations out there who raise awareness for children with life-threatening illnesses. (I strongly encourage you to get a tissue before watching).



Thank you to a very special friend for sharing this with me!

XOXO

Cheers to You!

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you to everyone who was involved in the Cheers to You event, which benefitted the Tampa chapter of Queen for a Day. I am floored by the positive response we have had and cannot wait to out-do ourselves next year! First and foremost, I would like to thank Leah Campanella (the president of QFAD Tampa) for all that she does for this amazing organization. I would also like to thank all of the volunteers, committee members, sponsors, local companies who donated to the silent auction, guest speakers, and everyone who attended this charity fundraiser. It would not have been remotely possible without each and every one of YOU! I could not have asked for a more perfect team of vendors who donated their time, skills, products and services to this unbelievable cause. I am so grateful for all of your contributions!

Photography: Carrie Wildes Photography

Flowers/Decor: Events in Bloom

Entertainment: Inspire Entertainment

Photobooth: Shutter Booth

Coffee/Cappuccino cart: Cafe Ala Carte

Videography/Slideshow: Tampa Wonderworks

Custom invitations/Stationery: Paper Presence

Linens: Linens by the Sea

Dessert Station: Sweetie Pies

Custom Dress for Guest of Honor: Anglo Couture

Chiavari Chairs: First Class Rentals

Last but certainly not least, I would like to thank Gretchen Hill of Hunters Green Golf and Country Club who went above and beyond in every way possible!

Enjoy.....

MIA?

I have had several of my blog readers ask me why I have gone "MIA" recently. It is so funny yet flattering that people even notice. I wish I could say that I have been on a long European vacation, or met Mr. Right and ran off to get married. Although neither is the case, I have been busy with something just as exciting. Friday night was the first annual Cheers to You event benefitting the Queen for a Day organization. (Read one of my recent entries for further information on this charity). I fell in love with this organization back in college when a sorority sister and close friend- Leah Campanella discovered the national organization of Queen for a Day and saw the need for it's presence in the local community. She has since become president of the Tampa chapter. Leah and I have spent the past few months getting sponsorships, silent auction donations, vendor participants, volunteers and all of the other million and one details that goes into coordinating a charity event. (It seriously makes weddings look like a piece of cake) Regardless of the hard work and long hours, I have never been involved in anything as rewarding in my entire life. I am already looking forward to the 2nd annual Cheers to You event. We raised A LOT of money and all of the guests (including myself) had the most amazing time. Stay tuned for more details and the much-anticipated photos of the event.

Happy 4th of July!

To all of my blog readers, colleagues, family members and friends: I hope you all have a very Happy (and SAFE) 4th of July! Please take a moment to remember how lucky we are to live in the BEST country on the planet. What an amazing holiday this is. I am personally looking forward to enjoying my two favorite F's: Food and Fireworks! Cheers.....

Will you be my bridesmaid?

How cute are these bridesmaid dress, ring and flower cookies from The Flour Pot? Even better, they come wrapped with tags with the words, Will you be my bridesmaid? (or maid of honor, ring bearer or flower girl) written on them. The bakery is happy to customize the dress colors to match your palette!

Courtesy of The Knot "wedding ideas" Blog.

Navy Blue and Pale Pink Wedding

Check out one of my favorite color combinations: Navy Blue and Pale Pink. What a great mix of masculinity and femininity! There are so many options with this clean, classic combination. So go out there and get inspired.....

Summer Wedding Ideas

Although we live in one of the hottest states in the country, there are many brides who choose to get married in Florida during the Summer months. Many couples even flock to the warmer/more tropical states to host their destination weddings. Whether it is in hopes that more of their guests will be able to attend or that they want to make a family vacation out if it- one thing is for sure....the summer months can be sweltering. There is good news for these Summer couples though....there are many things that you can do to have your guests embracing the heat, instead of dreading it. Here are some great summer wedding ideas:

Bring on the bright colors and patterns.

Your wedding colors should reflect the time of year that your wedding will take place. You won't see too many bright, colorful weddings in the month of December, however they are quite perfect for Summertime weddings. Dark colors tend to attract the sun- which is not something that you and your guests would welcome at such a special day. Khaki linen suites for the Grooms and Groomsmen are perfect! Pair it up with a colorful, bright tie like these ones from Vera Bradley. (http://www.verabradley.com/). Go an extra step with these adorable patterns by using a matching bag, umbrella, scarf, sunglasses or any other accessory for the Bridesmaids.

Keep your guests hydrated

It is not completely necessary to provide your guests with drinks prior to the ceremony- unless it is outside during one of the hot Summer months. Staying hydrated is so important for the health and safety of you and your guests. It is so simple and easy to pass out bottled waters (you can even add your own personalized label to them) as your guests enter the ceremony. You can also set up a table with these adorable old fashion pitchers. Serve any beverage such as tea, lemonade, punch or water. Your guests will be more than gracious!

Block those harmful UV Rays

Along with keeping your guests hydrated throughout your outdoor Summer ceremony, you may want to think about protecting their skin from sunburn or irritation. If your guests will not be seated in a confined area, you may want to consider giving them parasols or umbrellas to use. These can be purchased in bulk and come in every color, style and material. Mini bottles of SPF also add some protection, in a very cute way. All of these items can be customized with your wedding colors, monogram, or emblem. Creating your ceremony programs on a paper or bamboo fan is another great way to help your guests to beat the heat. Be sure to arrange these items in a cute set-up as show in the photograph- it's all about the presentation. Don't forget to place these items near the enterance of your ceremony site so that they won't be overlooked.

Opt for a short wedding dress

If your wedding is going to take place in the dead heat of summer (especially during the day time), you should highly consider wearing a short dress. Not only will it go better with the overall feel of a summer wedding, it will keep you from looking like a sweaty mess. The last thing that you would want to happen is to pass out at the alter from heat exhaustion (I have heard of this happening). Another aspect of your dress to consider is the weight and layers- both will increase your body temperature. Try to find something light, airy and cool. There are many designers who are creating beautiful short gowns that are just as amazing- if not more amazing than long gowns. Happy Shopping....

Give your guests a cool, refreshing treat

There are so many delicious sweets that you can offer your guests at your reception. There is no doubt that these well-planned details will set your wedding apart from the rest and will show your guests how much thought you put into treating them to a wonderful experience. Mini ice cream cones are perfect for a summer wedding reception. The acrylic tray shown in the photo offers an upscale twist and is a great way for your waiters to distribute these tasty treats throughout the room. Gelato bars, snow cone stations and frozen drink machines are also a fun/festive ideas that will keep your guests cool during the hot summer months.

K and K Photography

I am sure you can tell by reading my blog what a HUGE photography junkie I am. I could look at photographs all day long- especially great ones. There are so many people who have recently taken up photography after seeing what a lucrative business it can be. But there is no faking it in this industry- you either have it or you don't. I wanted to share with you someone who DEFINITELY has it!

K and K Photography is a husband and wife team of accomplished professional photographers, who have extensive experience photographing high-profile clients and have been published in many magazines, including TV Guide, People and US Weekly. Their works has also been shown on both the Oprah Show and the Ellen DeGeneres Show. Lucky for us, Jeff and Ana have recently decided to settle down in the Tampa Bay area and are now rank among the elite photographers in the region. Not only is K and K Photography extremely talented, they are quite possibly the nicest couple I have ever met! Be sure to check out more of their work on the K and K Photography website and blog.

Queen for a Day fundraiser event

I am so honored to be coordinating a charity event for an organization that is so near and dear to my heart! As an Aunt of three beautiful little girls, I couldn'd help but to fall in love with Queen for a Day. Read about the Organization and the upcoming event below. And don't forget to mark your calendars for July 17, 2009! This will be an event that you don't want to miss.
The Organization

Queen for a Day is a non-profit organization developed to raise the self-esteem and self-confidence of pediatric oncology patients. We do this by hosting a tea party where the girls are invited to get a make-over, manicure, and basically, just be girls! The highlight of the tea party is when each girl receives her very own tiara! Our goal is to provide a time where the girls can forget about their treatment, needles, and loneliness- to shower them with positive attention and to create happy memories to sustain them through hard times.

The Event (Cheers to You)

On July 17, 2009 the Tampa chapter of Queen for a Day will be hosting a fundraiser at Hunter’s Green Country Club in Tampa, FL. The goal of the fundraiser is raise money and awareness for Queen for a Day, while recognizing women in the Tampa Bay area that continue to make a difference. (Hence the title- Cheers to you). If you would like to nominate a community member or purchase tickets, please visit the Cheers to You website at www.cheerstoyouevent.com. The event will showcase great food and drinks, music and entertainment, an amazing silent auction and a fashion show by these darling "Queens."

Please contact me at Ashly@OlivierEvents.com for further questions or if you would like to volunteer, donate or attend.

Wonderful Web Resources

I often wonder how brides planned their weddings before the internet came along. I am sure it was feasible- just a lot more time consuming! There are so many great websites that offer the coolest products for your wedding or event. From personalized welcome totes (which can even come pre-packaged with all of the out-of-town goodies that you can think of) to personalized maps and more. Your imagination is the limit! Here are some of my personal favorites that I thought I would share:

www.inkboxdesign.com

www.foryourparty.com

www.beforeyourparty.com

www.etsy.com

www.navyandlavender.com

www.crystalkluge.com

www.wonderfulgraffitiwedding.com

www.plumparty.com

www.socialcouture.com

Win a Dress by Vera Wang

Weddings Unveiled has partnered with our friends at Vera Wang to give one lucky Completely Unveiled blog follower a gorgeous dress from the Vera Wang Maid to Order dress collection, now available online at VeraWangOnWeddings.com. The Vera Wang Maids collection ranges from the perfect LBD (little black dress) to lovely floor length evening gowns, all impeccably designed by Vera Wang. But wait... there's more! As if winning a dress by Vera Wang isn't cool enough, the winner gets to choose the dress she likes in the color she'd like. To view the collection and color options, click the link below:

VeraWangOnWeddings.com.

Each dress is made to order especially for you and requires eight weeks for delivery. So how do you win the fabulous frock? It's easy! Anyone can enter, whether a bride, a bridesmaid or just a girl who would love to have a pretty new dress from Vera Wang. We'll select a winner randomly among Completely Unveiled blog followers who comment on this post. We'll announce our winner on Friday, May 22nd. So... two things: You have to be a Completely Unveiled blog follower and you have to comment on this post. If you're not a follower, then become one super-quick and leave us a comment to let us know how much you love Weddings Unveiled. If you're already a follower, then we already know you love us, which makes us so happy! Leave us a comment anyway letting us know why you love Weddings Unveiled and it will warm our little hearts.

Good Luck!!

Have you found your Solemate?

Don't you hate when your heels sink into grass, cobblestones, sidewalk grates or cracks? I definitely do! Spare yourself from an embarrassing mishap by using a SoleMates. They are compatible with most skinny heels and won't damage your shoes or compromise your look.

Solemates easily slip on when you need them and slip off when you don't. What a perfect idea for an outdoor wedding!

Sneak Peak

Here is a SHORT sneak peak from Elizabeth and Jeremy's wedding last weekend. Stay tuned for MUCH more from this fabulous celebration.

Photos by Julie Brewer of Brewer Photography and Videography.