Tara Keely Trunk Show

Upcoming Event: Tara Keely Trunk Show, October 5th - 6th, at Garnish Boutique.  By appointment only.

To make an appointment at Garnish: 410.321.1406 or info@garnishboutique.com 

More upcoming trunk shows at Garnish: ALVINA VALENTA- OCT 19-20

JIM HJELM- OCT 26-27

JIM HJELM BLUSH AND HAYLEY PAIGE- NOV 9-10

AMSALE BRIDESMAIDS- NOV 15-17

Kelly Faetanini Trunk Show at Garnish

Upcoming event: Kelly Faetanini bridal trunk show, September 28th -29th at Garnish Boutique.  By appointment only.  Take a look at some of the Fall 2012 collection: 

To make an appointment at Garnish: 410.321.1406 or info@garnishboutique.com 

More upcoming trunk shows at Garnish: 

TARA KEELY - OCT 5-6

ALVINA VALENTA- OCT 19-20

ALVINA VALENTA- OCT 19-20

JIM HJELM- OCT 26-27

JIM HJELM BLUSH AND HAYLEY PAIGE- NOV 9-10

AMSALE BRIDESMAIDS- NOV 15-17

TARA KEELY- NOV 23-24

Hayley Paige Trunk Show at Garnish

The Hayley Paige bridal trunk show is September 20th -21st at Garnish Boutique.  By appointment only, and only a few appointments left!  

Hayley Paige has chic figure-hugging silhouettes with femininity and just a hint of edge.  Modern bride perfection.  

To make an appointment at Garnish: 410.321.1406 or info@garnishboutique.com

More upcoming trunk shows at Garnish: 

KELLY FAETININI - SEPT 28-29

TARA KEELY - OCT 5-6

ALVINA VALENTA- OCT 19-20

Real Inspiration: Carolyn & Andrew

Back in January I posted photos from this couple's beautiful engagement session.  Now, take a look at their gorgeous wedding!  Todd Spitler, who also did the couple's engagement photography, did an amazing job capturing this day.

 

The couple got married in Harrisburg, PA, at Saint Catherine’s Laboure Catholic Church, the church Carolyn attended as a child.  How beautiful is that stained glass?  And their reception was in the Chocolate Ballroom at The Hershey Lodge in Hershey, PA.  The couple used the wedding planner from The Hershey Lodge, Ira Task.

Carolyn's dress is from David's Bridal!  David's has locations in Glen Burnie, Bowie and Rockville, MD.  Carolyn headed there looking for bridesmaids dresses and found her beautiful wedding dress as well!  The dress was designed by Oleg Cassini (He has also been worn by Jackie O!  Oh my!)  The bridesmaids wore dresses by Priscilla of Boston which is unfortunately now closed.  So thrifty brides, look on ebay for these dresses! What a beautiful color purple!  The bride's and maids' had their hair done by Mindy Whalen and their make-up by Nicole Palermo.  

The flowers are from Flower Designs by Cherylann based out of Hershey, PA.  Carolyn worked with Lori and says, "She was fantastic!"  The table numbers came from Etsy. The escort cards were from Wedding Paper Divas and they matched the invitations and save the dates.

The groom is an avid cyclist, so the couple incorporated bicycles into the wedding decor.  The cake topper was a bicycle made for two (how cute!) and was found on Etsy.  The favors were hand-painted coasters (also from Etsy) that had two bikes, the name of the couple and their wedding date.   The cupcakes and assorted sweets came from Couture Cakery: Carolyn says, "We worked with the owner, Jasmine.  She was so talented and fabulous to work with!"   

The couple used DJ Kopec, which the bride proclaimed, "the best DJ in the area!"  He came up from Baltimore to do for the reception.  "Chris [DJ Kopec] was able to keep people dancing the entire time.  Young and old…I couldn’t believe how many ppl were up out of their seats.  He’s amazing."  Looks like the reception was a lot of fun!

Congratulations Carolyn and Andrew!  And thanks so much for sharing!

Baltimore Bridal Show

This weekend is one of (if not the) largest Baltimore wedding shows.  The Baltimore Bridal Show kicks off this Saturday evening.  Need advice on how to prepare?  Check out this post on surviving wedding show season.

When: This weekend, February 4th & 5th. 

Where: Baltimore Convention Center, 1 West Pratt St., Baltimore, MD 21201 

Why: Fashion shows, vendors, experts, gifts and prizes.

How: You can buy tickets here for $10.  

Hayley Paige Trunk Show at Garnish

The Hayley Paige bridal trunk show is this Friday & Saturday Feb 3-4th at Garnish Boutique.  By appointment only, and only a few appointments left!  And wow, get 10% off all orders placed during the showing!

Hayley Paige has chic figure-hugging silhouettes with femininity and just a hint of edge.  Modern bride perfection.  

To make an appointment at Garnish: 410.321.1406 or info@garnishboutique.com

Tasting Tuesdays with Truffles

I have been a long time fan of the Belvedere (its my favorite building in Baltimore) and more recently have become a fan of Truffles Catering.  I am especially a fan of those awesome Truffles ladies who throw fabulous soirees and plan perfect weddings!  Want to know what I'm talking about?  Attend one of their Tasting Tuesdays!

The first and third Tuesday of each month Truffles will feature tapas-style tastings of their delicious hors d'oeuvres, salads, entrees, and desserts for clients interested in their catering services for an event.  You can purchase your tickets here.  I know I will be heading over for some of their mouthwatering cuisine ASAP!

Their next tasting will be Tuesday, January 17th.

Inspired Designer: Legends by Romona Keveza

Looking for elegant and timeless wedding gowns?  Look no further.  The Spring 2012 Legends by Romona Keveza collection is perfect for classic bride.  Soft silks, luxurious laces, and a variety of romantic silhouettes sure to flatter all types of figures.  Here are some of my favorites:

You can find the Legends by Romona Keveza collection at Betsy Robinson's Bridal Collection located on Reisterstown Rd., 410.484.4600.  Chevy Chase Bridal, located in Chevy Chase, MD will be hosting a trunk show Jan 6 - 8, 2012.

Bridal Show Season- How to prepare?

Baltimore Bride Magazine's Aisle Style

Now that you have decided which bridal shows to attend this season, make sure you are prepared to get the most out of your time (and money).  Here are some tips to help make bridal shows a piece of cake:

1. Have an empty tote.  Be sure to have a bag to carry all of the informational brochures, business cards, information packets, etc you will want to take home.  If you are attending a big show, you will be amazed by the amount of literature you'll be carrying around.

2.  Have a notebook and pen.  Of course, a lot of information will be provided by the vendor in promotional materials.  But you may want to make notes about particular vendors you liked, specific services they provide, price quotes, or questions you had answered.  If you're an overachiever, bring a fine point Sharpie- that way you can write on any surface, including glossy promotional literature.

3. Have calling cards.  Either your business cards, personal calling cards, or self-printed labels with your name, mailing address, email address, and phone number.  Most vendors will already have this information when you register to attend, but if there is a particular vendor you are interested in, be sure they receive one.  Vendors may offer discounts or giveaways to brides they meet at particular events.

4. Have a check book.  For the most part, you'll just be learning about vendors.  But, you never know what you may find- the perfect photographer with limited availability.  There are only 52 weekends in a year and vendors can fill up fast.  Also, some vendors have "show only specials."  In order to receive a discounted rate, you must make a deposit during the show.  Don't be afraid to ask vendors if they have any show promotions.

5. Have a camera.  Be ready to take photos of fashion shows, wedding vignettes, cakes, etc.  Inspiration abound, you'll want to be able to review later.  Also, take photos of the booths of any vendors you were particularly interested in.  It will be an easy visual reminder of conversations or thoughts you may have had.  At the end of the day it may be difficult to keep things clear after collecting so many business cards, a booth photo should provide you with basic information, such as the vendor's name.

6. Have comfortable shoes.   Ladies, I'm not kidding.  You're going to be standing and walking for hours, carrying a bunch of brochures, catalogs, and magazines - don't miss out by distracting foot pain or having to leave early.  Most door prizes or raffles are announced later in the show and you must be present to win.

7. Have an entourage.  Bring people who have opinions you trust.  Consider people who have a sense of style or taste you admire, people who are good with negotiations or making financial decisions, and people who are good with keeping your needs in mind.  I mention that last one as we all have friends and family who are good at deciding what they'd like, make sure your posse includes someone who not only knows you well but can advocate on your behalf.

8. Have a good time.  Wedding shows are full of great food, beautiful decor, and fun music.  Take a moment to enjoy the time with your friends and family.  Some shows will have a dance floor, don't hesitate to bust a move!  And remember if you're feeling overwhelmed, just step out and take a moment to yourself.

Bridal Show Season- Which to attend?

The beginning of the new year- days are shorter, defrosting your windshield is a daily occurrence, the gym is suddenly crowded, and everyone is hosting a bridal show.  That's right, its bridal show season!  Of course, you can't hit them all, so how do you decide?  Well first, here is a run down of some of the upcoming bridal shows in the Baltimore area:

Chesapeake Bay Beach Club Bridal Show. Jan 7th. Stevensville, MD.
Great Bridal Expo. Jan 7th. Baltimore, MD.

Timonium Bridal Expo.  Jan 7th & 8th.  Timonium, MD.

Delmarva Bridal Showcase.  Jan 8th.  Salisbury, MD.
Baltimore Museum of Industry's Annual Bridal Show. Jan 10th. Baltimore, MD.
Here Comes The Bride... and Groom Wedding Expo. Jan 15th. Linthicum Heights, MD.

Eastern Shore Bridal Extravaganza.  Jan 15th.  Easton, MD.
Turf Valley's Bridal Extravaganza.  Jan 20th.  Ellicott City, MD.  

Baltimore Bride Magazine's Aisle Style.  Jan 29th.  Pikesville, MD.

Embassy Suites Hunt Valley Bridal Show.  Jan 29th.  Hunt Valley, MD.

Baltimore Bridal Show. February 4th & 5th. Baltimore, MD.
Winter Bridal Showcase.  Feb 19th.  Towson, MD.

So now that you realize its not physically possible to attend all the upcoming events in the Baltimore area (nor would you want to feel like a "bridezilla" for doing so), its time to make some decisions.  

Things to consider:

Location Location Location

If your venue is hosting a bridal show, you'll want to attend.  You will be able to spend more time in the space and experience a large event at your venue.  Also, most venues have relationships with specific vendors, especially caterers, so you will further get to know your vendors.  

You should attend a show in the area of your wedding.  For example, planning a wedding on the Eastern Shore?  You'll want to attend a bridal show across the bay.  Although many vendors provide services throughout the area, attending a show local to your venue will provide you an opportunity to meet local vendors whom you may not otherwise have the chance.

Do Your Homework

Remember, this is not only a way for you to discover new vendors, but also a way to do some one stop shopping.  Most event websites will list the vendors who will be exhibiting.  Think of the vendors you'd like to talk to and see which event will have the more of your perspective vendors.

Think about the sections of your planning left to do.  Have you planned the bridal party's attire? - Will this event have a fashion show?  Still considering a theme or color scheme? - Will this event have vignettes to inspire you?  And don't be afraid to contact the event host to get further details.

Size of Event (and You)

Maybe its just my background in psychology, but personality is something to consider (and not just yours, think of the family members and friends who may be tagging along).  Are you going to be excited or overwhelmed by a huge event?  Are you happy to push through crowds to find what you want?  Do you do better in intimate settings?  Would you rather have more individualized attention and compromise on the number of vendors?  It may seem inconsequential, but it can make a difference.  Sensory overload can be a real problem!

Use Your Friends

Have any newlywed friends?  Ask which shows they attended and what their experiences were.  Social media is another great way to get some advice.  Ask Facebook friends for some feedback and suggestions.  

Interviews with Baltimore Wedding Vendors

Over the past year and a half, I have had the opportunity to interview some great Baltimore wedding vendors.  I got the inside scoop on their businesses, plus some fantastic advice that every bride needs.  I wanted to make sure you guys (my awesome readers) didn't miss the opportunity to get the 411!  So, read up!  (Interviews are linked in purple).

Tara Parekh Photography

 Early this year, I had the chance to interview Tara Parekh of Tara Parekh Photography.  You don't want to miss this interview!  Tara gives us lots of tips on choosing a photographer and getting great wedding photos.

Balance Boudoir

I had a great two-part interview with Balance Boudoir Photography.  Rissa Miller, professional photographer, and Ashlee Riddle, hair stylist and owner of Up Do’s for I Do’s, tell us all about what they do at Balance Boudoir Photography.  Plus they gave us lots of tips for making the photo shoot experience comfortable and fun!

Julianne Smith, The Garter Girl

I loved talking to The Garter Girl, Julianne Smith, because her garters are handmade and a lot of what she does is custom.  Not to mention beautiful and eco-friendly!  Smith is also one of the editors of United With Love, a wedding blog for the D.C. area. 

Maria Louise High

In my interview with Maria Louise High, owner of Little Blue Studio, we talked about her lovely handmade fabric flowers.  The perfect accessory for the wedding day (or rehearsal dinner, or well, any day)!


I'm not sure if this "counts," but I did write a bit about my creative process , if you would like some insight into Alexandra Webb Jewelry (me)!  Of course, I am always posting about my custom bridal jewelry.

Garnish Boutique

I also got to sit down with my friend, Mia Antalics, owner of Garnish Boutique.  We talked about her business, trends in bridesmaids attire and tips for brides. 

Madeleine Homes, La Papillon Spa

I took a trip to La Papillon Spa in Lutherville to interview Madeleine Homes, spa owner, make-up artist, and "eyebrow whisperer."  We talked about all of the wonderful services she provides to brides and their maids.  In Part 2 of the interview, Homes gave us some great ideas on how to prepare for your wedding day and working with a make-up artist.

 Felicity C Weddings

I also got to interview Felicity Carmody of Felicity C Weddings.  She explains the role of a wedding planner and all of the ways she can help in the planning process (plus make the day of the wedding much easier for everyone involved).  In Part 2 of the interview, Carmody gives us some wedding planning tips, plus her favorite Baltimore wedding vendors!

Are you a Baltimore area wedding vendor?  Would you like to offer my readers some advice?  Please email alexawebb@gmail.com. 

Tara Keely Trunk Show

 What:  Tara Keely Fall 2011 Bridal Collection trunk show!

When: September 30th - October 8th, by appointment.

Where: Garnish Boutique, 1515 Labelle Ave., Suite 3, Baltimore, MD 21204

Why: The collection is gorgeous!  And any order placed during the show will be 15% off! 

How: Call 410.321.1406 or email to set up an appointment.

Pink Swarovski Crystal Bridesmaids Jewelry - Custom Order

So pretty in pink!  The bride chose to have her 2 maids in the same necklace and her maid of honor in a pink and green combination.  All of the girls have different earrings based on their tastes.  They all mesh in the same color pallet!  On a budget?  Using crystal instead of gemstones is a great way to save a little money. 

Bridesmaids Necklaces

Maid of Honor Necklace

Each girl has a different style of earring

These pieces are sterling silver, Swarovski crystal and freshwater pearls.  More of my custom work.  And more about the custom design process.  Alexandra Webb Jewelry

Beach Bridesmaids Jewelry - Custom Order

Perfect for a beach wedding!  Starfish and shell charm necklaces with dyed freshwater pearls and AAA grade pale green prehnite.  The bride chose to make her maid of honor's necklace a little different by adding a shell charm in addition to the starfish charm.  All metals are sterling silver.

To see more of my custom work, go here.  To read more about the design process, visit my website.  Alexandra Webb Jewelry

Real Inspiration: Chelsea & Jason

Chelsea and Jason chose Mt. Vernon, one of my favorite Baltimore neighborhoods, as the backdrop for their wedding  The ceremony was held at St. Ignatius and the reception at the Peabody Library.  Their photographers, Artful Weddings by Sachs Photography, did an amazing job capturing this couple's special day!  Anne and Joe Sachs, a husband-wife team, never fail to impress me with their images.  Chelsea and Jason loved working with them- "talented but relaxed, calming, warm, and just fun to hang out with."

The couple met 13 years ago at the University of Virginia, through a mutual friend, one of the groomsmen, Matt.  Chelsea explains, "We all moved to NYC right after school.  And while Jason did spend a lot of time in my bed those first few years - it was always without me in it!  I lived in midtown Manhattan with Matt's (now) wife.  Jason lived in Hoboken.  I worked a ton and was never at the apartment.  Jason and Matt would out late in the city, and Jason would just crash in my room while I wasn't there so he wouldn't have to take the train back to Hoboken.  It wasn't until almost 10 years later, when he stopped by my Christmas party in 2007 that we finally hit it off!  Not sure what is was about that cold December night in the East Village, but we've pretty much been stuck together ever since."

 The bride's amazing gown came from Pronovias.  They have a huge store in Manhattan, but you can also shop the collection right here in Baltimore, at Francescas Bridal.  Her purple satin shoes came from DSW.  Chelsea says, "I'm a sucker for a bargain!"  Her gorgeous make-up was done by Debbie Federico.

The invitations were designed by Alexandra at Aerialist Press.  Inspired by the iron work around the stacks of the Peabody, the invitations were custom designed.  Quick turn around time and easy to work with, Chelsea highly recommends Aerialist Press.  The flowers, including centerpieces, bouquets and boutonnieres were made by Fleur de Lis.  The bride chose to have a vivid purple bouquet including purple hyacinth, pink and purple anemonies, purple tulips and black magic roses.  I love it!  I love brides adding pops of color to their ensembles, and bouquets are the perfect way to accomplish that!  The bridesmaids bouquets featured baby green hydrangea, purple tulips, hot pink and plum dendrobium orchids.  Beautiful!  Fleur de Lis, located in Baltimore, has been making weddings more beautiful with their creations for over 18 years! 

The dashing wedding party sported tuxedos and purple bridesmaids dresses.  The maids dresses were from Nordstrom.com.  The dresses are JS Boutique, they come in a variety of colors with optional straps.  The couple didn't use a wedding planner.  Jason (the groom) did most of the planning!

The Peabody Library is truly a breathtaking venue!  The reception was catered by Chefs Expressions, whic also made the cake.  It had layers of chocolate cake, lemon cake, and blueberries.  Yumm!  And guests danced the night away to the sounds of William Steward of My Deejay.  The ring bearer's pillow came from Michael's Arts and Crafts.  

 Congratulations Chelsea and Jason!