Detail by Detail Events

We've moved!

2011-02-07T18:53:00.001-05:00

Check out our new and improved blog!

http://blog.detailbydetail.net/

Back to blogging! Stay tuned!

2010-10-24T12:01:00.007-04:00

My sincerest apologies for the extended hiatus. We are currently working at updating our look and moving our blog onto our home website!

Very exciting things to come, so stay tuned!

Yours truly,
Detail by Detail Event Planning

Hot Trends Part IV: PRINTS!

2010-09-04T08:43:00.002-04:00

More and more bridal couples are stepping outside of the traditional lines of wedding decor and making their special day a true reflection of their personality and style. One of the hottest trends in decor this year is prints. From invitations to bridesmaids dresses- prints are huge. Take a look...

(Source: Etsy: Inkylivie, Snippet & Ink, The Knot)

Wedding planning tips & advice: Finding the right venue

2010-08-29T13:00:00.028-04:00

There are a multitude of wedding venues out there. Finding one that fits your personality and style (and budget) takes some time and effort. Follow these simple steps to help get you started.

1-Have a budget in place (and stick with it!): I can't say this enough. It's not uncommon to have a bride that does not have a budget in place and that's where things can get sticky. If you have a good planner (she/he will ask you if you have one and will set up a breakdown of your expected expenses). Having an estimated budget in place will help keep the process running smoothly and will allow (if planned correctly) to have all the nice touches you've dreamed.

2-Determine the approximate number of guests before choosing the site. You'll need to have a general idea of how many guests you'll have in order to find the venue that will accommodate that number!

3- Consider the atmosphere you want to create. Will it be formal or informal? Does the architecture and style of the decor add to the ambiance you wish to create?

4- How far do you expect your guests to travel? You don't want your guests getting lost on their way to your wedding. Perhaps provide a shuttle service or detailed directions with a map.

5-Do you want a site that is all inclusive, or a site where you choose all the vendors separately? Sometimes having a one-stop-shop can cut down on costs, but you lose the control in having a specific vendor. Ask the venue site manager for a list of preferred vendors. Often times, having a vendor that has worked the venue can work in your favor.

6- When out visiting venues, take a camera or video recorder and take pictures of all the things you liked about the venue (as well as noting some things that you have questions about).

Choosing a venue can be daunting, but you'll know it when you feel it. Just do your homework ahead of time and you'll be in good shape.

Happy Planning!

Etsy FAB FIND: Vintage Silverware

2010-08-26T05:00:00.002-04:00

Oooo... so pretty. I love these vintage bride and groom cake forks by BeachHouse Living. What a perfect keepsake to pass on to future generations.

Hot Trends Part III: Charitable wedding favors

2010-08-25T12:29:00.037-04:00

It seems fitting that the TODAY Show featured the hot trends in wedding favors this morning! You can check out the segment here.

This couldn't be a more perfect segue into my next blog entry for my Hot Trends Part III: Charitable wedding favors. I was recently doing some research for this blog and came across some really great ideas to add to those mentioned on the TODAY Show.

For couples celebrating a Jewish wedding, crocheted Kippot. Maya Works is a cooperative of Guatemalan women artisans who use proceeds from their handmade crafts to improve their lives and their community.

Endangered Species Chocolate. "Savor chocolate. Save our planet." Show your guests your compassion for our planet by placing each of these all-natural, ethically traded, naturally shade grown chocolate products at each place setting.

Hot Trends Part II: The Colored Bridal Shoe

2010-08-24T17:10:00.016-04:00

“Give a girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world.” -Marilyn Monroe

I'm really excited that this trend is sticking around. I love seeing a pop of color where you least expect it. There is nothing like having a fun pair of shoes that make you feel special!

(Photo cred: Sweet Monday Photography, Natalie Moser Photography)

Hot Trends Part I: Mismatched and Marvelous!

2010-08-22T21:14:00.011-04:00

Mismatched bridesmaids dresses are gaining momentum and with good reason! Not only does this option free you(the bride) from the pressure of finding the perfect bridesmaids dress that will fit the shape and personality of your attendants, but it gives them the freedom and ability to find what's a good fit for them. Giving your bridesmaids options will keep them happy and excited to be standing by your side!

(Photo cred: Martha Stewart, Matthew Morgan Photography,Polka Dot Bride, Ken Kienow Photography)

Creative Guest Book Idea!

2010-07-26T09:23:00.013-04:00

Make your guest book table interactive and fun by setting up a Polaroid Guest Book table. Have a close friend or family member stand in as an attendant to take photos of each guest with a Polaroid camera. They can immediately sign their names to the photo and affix onto a page with adhesive photo corners. Now, you can remember (if only their smiling faces) who was at your wedding!
(Photo Cred: Jocelyn Fisher)

FAB FIND: Custom Wedding Maps by Jim Hunt Illustration

2010-07-25T12:07:00.012-04:00

Now here is a spin on a wedding map! Jim Hunt Illustrations creates these custom cartoon maps that cleaverly dipict your wedding hot spots. Put them in your out-of-town guest bags...

or send the out as your Save-the-Dates!

Dinner 4 Two: Italian Skillet Supper

2010-07-24T14:00:00.001-04:00

~Ingredients~
2 boneless skinless chicken breast halves (4 ounces each)
1/4 teaspoon garlic salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 teaspoons reduced-fat butter
1 teaspoon olive oil
1/4 pound small fresh mushrooms
1/2 medium onion, chopped
1/4 cup chopped sweet red pepper
1 tablespoon pine nuts
2 cups fresh baby spinach
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1/2 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
1-1/2 teaspoons spicy brown mustard
2 teaspoons shredded Romano cheese

~Directions~
Flatten chicken slightly; sprinkle with garlic salt and pepper. In a large nonstick skillet, cook chicken in butter and oil over medium heat for 3-4 minutes on each side or until no longer pink. Remove and keep warm.

In the same skillet, saute the mushrooms, onion, red pepper and pine nuts until vegetables are tender. Add spinach; cook and stir for 2-3 minutes or until wilted. Stir in flour. Gradually stir in broth and mustard. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened.

Return chicken to the pan; heat through. Sprinkle with cheese.

Wedding desserts- a nice alternative to the traditional wedding cake

2010-07-23T19:37:00.061-04:00

Weddings are filled with customs and traditions, and one of the most sacred of these traditions is the wedding cake. But what are the rules of tradition, if not for being broken! As a planner, I am always thrilled when couples are daring enough to step out of the box and try something different. It truly is a reflection of their personalities! Here are some fun and creative alternatives to the wedding cake...

Cupcakes

Banana Pudding

Rice Crispy Cake

Doughnuts

Pies

Ice Cream Bar

Milk & Cookies

Little Debbie Snacks

(photo cred: The Knot)

Eco FAB FIND: Organic birdseed favors

2010-07-18T10:05:00.008-04:00

Handmade favors to order with organic wild bird seed. What a great way to be eco-friendly!

(FIND HERE: 2birdsinlove)

Dinner 4 Two: Thai Beef Steak & Noodle Salad

2010-07-15T22:30:00.001-04:00

Cooking can be a good opportunity to bond as newlyweds. But, cooking for 2 can sometimes pose some challenges. So, today I present to you, the first installment of our weekly "Dinner 4 Two" series.

Thai Beef Steak & Noodle Salad
(makes 2 servings)

~Dressing~
3 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon water
1 large clove garlic, minced
1½ teaspoons thai chile paste (add a little more for that extra kick)
1 tablespoon light brown sugar
½ teaspoon sesame oil
2 tablespoon neutral flavored oil (like canola or grapeseed)

~Salad~
½ pound skirt steak or flank steak, or a similar thin cut
1 ounce pad Thai noodles, soaked until soft in boiling water, cut into pieces if very long, and chilled
1 large handful mesclun or chopped lettuce
1 large handful shredded cabbage
3 thinly-sliced radishes
1 small julienned carrot
⅓ cup seeded, diced cucumber
1 avocado (stoned, scooped and diced)
⅓ cup diced mango
⅓ cup seeded, diced tomato
2 thinly-sliced scallions
2 tablespoons toasted, chopped peanuts (2 to 3)
½ cup chopped cilantro, mint, or Thai (or regular) basil or a combination (this is best)

Directions:
1- Whisk all dressing ingredients together and let set at room temprature while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

2-Season the beef with salt and pepper and sear in a hot skillet (preferably cast iron) for 2-3 minutes per side, or until medium rare. Let the meat rest for a few minutes, then slice on the bias and toss with 2-3 tablespoons of the dressing.

3-Mix the remaining salad ingredients (except the peanuts) in a large bowl, and add dressing until everything is well coated. Divide the salad & noodles between two plates, mound the beef on top and sprinkle with the chopped peanuts.

Happy Cooking!

I'm jonesing for this FAB FIND!

2010-07-14T05:00:00.002-04:00

Personalized wedding pop! How neat is this? They make great favors and at the same time provide an alternative drink for your guests! Personalize your bottles with your favorite photos to make your day truly unique!
Get your Jones on!

Let's hear it for the boy!

2010-07-13T07:04:00.017-04:00

It won't be often that I give a shout out to another blog... but there will be the rare exception. I recently came across this wedding blog, The Temple of Groom , that chronicles one groom's journey through wedding planning, and I just cannot stop reading it. Wedding planning with great insight and great wit... and from a guy's perspective! Take a peak, you'll be glad you did!

(image cred: Temple of Groom)

Inspiring Quotes

2010-07-12T10:25:00.001-04:00

Ever come across a quote that truly touched the very heart of your soul? If so, what a great way to add a personal touch to your wedding and get your guests feeling the universal significance and emotional impact of those words.

There are so many creative ways to incorporate love quotes for your wedding, here are just a few...
- your Save-the-Date cards
- invitations
- ceremony programs
- in your vows
- for your ceremony readings
- toasts
- use on your table number cards
- personalize your cocktail napkins

Some great quotes to inspire:

"We are each of us angels with only one wing. And we can only fly while embracing each other."
- Lucian de Croszonza

"For it was not into my ear you whispered, but into my heart. It was not my lips you kissed, but my soul."
-Judy Garland

"To get the full value of joy You must have someone to divide it with."
- Mark Twain

"And this our Life, Our beginning."
-Shakespeare

"From every human being there rises a light that reaches straight to heaven, and when two souls that are destined to be together find each other, the streams of light flow together and a single brighter light goes forth from that united being.”
-Ba’al Shem Tov

"You're nothing short of my everything."
- Ralph Block

"When you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody,you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible."
-from When Harry Met Sally

"For I have found the one whom my soul loves."
-Song of Solomon

"Bearing and nurturing,
Creating but not owning,
Giving without demanding,
Controlling without authority,
This is love."
-Tao Te Ching

"Love is patient and kind; love is not jealous or boastful; it is not arrogant or rude.
Love does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrong, but rejoices in the right.
Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
Love never ends."
- Corinthians 13:4-8a

"Once in awhile,Right in the middle of an ordinary life,
Love gives us a fairy tale."
- Unknown

"All that you are, all that I owe to you, justifies my love."
- Marquis de Lafayette

"There is always some madness in love. But there is also always some reason in madness."
- Nietzsche

"Marriage...
Trust is the start of it,
Joy is part of it,
Love is the heart of it."
-Unknown

"What is done in love is done well."
-Van Gogh

Wedding Planning Tips & Advice: Staying sane during the planning process!

2010-07-09T09:15:00.067-04:00

Planning a wedding is a huge undertaking. As the first major task of an engaged couple, it can't often times test your relationship. Many couples will become stressed by the demands of planning that they will either argue or have no time alone together.

Let's set your mind at ease... it's NORMAL!! You've become stretched thin from all the planning, getting anxious about the upcoming life changes and most likely, having to deal with pressures from family members "helping out."

Here are some tips to help alleviate stress to keep you cool, calm and collected and maybe even reignite the flame that moved you to become engaged in the first place!

1- Communication is key! Talk about what your visions are for your big day and be sure to incorporate ideas from both ends. Remember, it's HIS wedding too! ;)
Contrariwise, talk about and do things that are NON-wedding related! Have a date night with a rule that there will be no wedding talk and whomever caves, has to pay the bill!

2- Share responsibilities! Put together a tasks list with deadlines for each of you to complete. This way you both are taking an active role in the planning and lessening the burden for one to shoulder. It's all about team work!

3- Hire a professional. A wedding planner/coordinator can become your best friend! They can assist with phone calls, setting appointments and running errands that you don't have time to do! It's not uncommon to need a little help during this chaotic time. Don't be afraid to ask for some!

4- Keep yourself in check. When you notice(or have been told) that you're becoming crankier or on edge, its a sign that it's time to relax! Make an appointment to get a facial or massage. Doing so will help you to relax and take your mind of things while, simultaneously preparing you for the big day!

Remember, the goal is to enjoy your wedding day, and the planning that goes with it. So take a deep breath, get organized and everything will fall into place!

FAB FIND: Little Letters pendants by Alex Woo

2010-07-08T12:05:00.024-04:00

Show how much you appreciate your maid or matron of honor with a personalized letter pendant.

She'll be so stylish (all the celebs are wearing them)

and eternally grateful!

Here are some from Alex Woo's Little Letters collection:

Wedding dress of the week from the Elie Saab 2010 collection

2010-07-07T23:04:00.015-04:00

Elie Saab's wedding dress style Caelum is an ivory, v-neck neckline, a-line, floor-length gown. Embellishments include beading and applique.

Isn't lace lovely?

(Source: Ellie Saab)

Gifts ideas for your groomsmen, under $30

2010-07-03T07:46:00.065-04:00

Personalized Groomsmen Cigar Cutter, $8.95

Personalized NFL Pint Glass, $25

Maxam 64oz. Jumbo Flask, $24.95

Personalized Silver Round Cuff Links, $17.95

Stainless Thermos, $13.95

Groomsmen Art Form Money Clip, $23.99

Personalized Multi-Tool with Flashlight, $24.00

Personalized Multi-Function Golf Key Ring, $19.95

Personalized His or Hers Hanging Toiletry Bag, $28.00

Sources: mygroomsmengifts.com, themanregistry.com groomsmen.com, groomstand.com

Setting THE DATE!

2010-07-01T20:08:00.042-04:00

So you are engaged! Congratulations! Now that the initial roller coaster of emotions has settled (just a bit), it's time to get down to the nitty-gritty... setting THE DATE. You will find that there is a whirlwind of planning ahead and in order to get any of the other tasks completed; you need to find a date that works for you and your fiancé. Here we'll discuss the important step in the planning process of setting your wedding date.

Often mistaken as a simple step, choosing your wedding date can get tricky if you have a hectic work schedule, busy social life and large family on either or both sides.

1- Give yourself a pat on the back... go ahead, do it! You're getting married! This will be one of the most exciting times in your life and well worth all the effort that you will be putting into the wedding of your dreams.

2- Grab your calendars and have a date check with your fiancé to see if there are any special dates or times of year that appeal to you. Perhaps you enjoy the warm colors and cool temperatures of the Fall or maybe you enjoy the vibrant colors and fragrant smells of the Spring? Is there a special date or month of the year that holds a certain amount of nostalgia? You'll find that selecting a particular time of the year will help guide you in the "theme" you select for your event.
(HELPFUL TIDBIT: Reserve two alternative dates to serve as back-up when moving forward with planning. This way you don't have to start all over with reviewing dates.)

3- Don't hesitate to check dates with close friends and family... especially those you want to extend an invite to be a part of your bridal party. Depending on the time of year you select, many of them may already have vacations booked or other major events on their calendar. By getting a general idea from all of the major players involved in your ceremony, you can give yourself a good idea of what days you can look for.

4- If there is a certain planner (wink wink), location, photographer, or band that is A MUST to have on your team of vendors, be sure to check their availability!

Good luck with planning!

Celebrity updo hairstyles to inspire your bridal look

2010-06-30T07:29:00.007-04:00

(Sources: instyle.com, elle.com, style.com, beautifulhairstlyes.com

INSPIRATION BOARD: The Silhouette

2010-06-29T07:23:00.037-04:00

I guess I'm in a vintage state of mind. After Monday's post, I put together an inspiration board designed from my "muse" The Silhouette. It's classic and sophisticated.

(Sources: Silhouette by Cut Arts, Van Deusen Photography,Chandelier, KM Photography Weddings, Love Life Images, Invitation by Betsy White, Anemone flowers featured in Brides Real Weddings

I heart vintage

2010-06-28T07:35:00.056-04:00

If you're a bride that has a flair for retro sophistication, then the item you're after is called the "birdcage veil."

Aren't these veils gorgeous?

(Photo cred: Anne Michelle Heirlooms
Stephanie Williams Photography, Batcakes Couture )

Get creative with your Save-the-Dates!

2010-06-27T09:16:00.007-04:00

It truly amazes me how people continue to reinvent the wheel. Through browsing many websites and blogs I have come across so much creativity! I tried to narrow down, what I thought, was THE MOST creative, but there were too many I just loved, that I had share them ALL (well,a few anyway)!

Here is a Save-the-Date SONG! Yes, a save the date song! Check out the couple's wedding website by clicking here for the lyrics to follow along with the song!

Click HERE to listen

Some other clever ideas to inspire...

Bridal Shows... How to survive and get the most out of your experience!

2010-06-26T09:20:00.005-04:00

Bridal Shows are an adventure for the soon-to-be bride (or couple). You have an opportunity to meet with many of the local area vendors that are dedicated to making your day as special as it can be. Make the most of your experience by being prepared and arming yourself with some time-saving tips!

1. Create a new email account designated for all things wedding! Keep your personal or work email spam-free by creating a separate wedding e-mail account that is used specifically for your wedding related communication. You can also use this email when you enter wedding contests or promotional drawings.
TIP: Save your regular email address for the vendors you sign.

2. Pre-register before the show to save yourself time & money. Not only does pre-registering allow you to save time from having to fill out all your information at the entrance, but there’s probably a good chance that you can take advantage of discounted ticket prices and early-bird contest drawings.
Helpful tip: Check out the list of vendors exhibiting in the show you will be attending. Often times, exhibitors are given comp tickets to give out to people interested in their services. Call up a vendor that you are interested in hiring and ask if they have tickets so you can come check them out.

3. Do your research and check out the vendors that are expected to exhibit in the show. Visit their websites to get a feel of their style and pricing. This will help you eliminate vendors that don't fit your budget and/or style.

4. Have a game plan - make a list of the wedding services you need and have an estimated budget for each service.

5. Allow yourself time- Be prepared to spend 2-5 hours at the show.

6. Wear comfy shoes- You'll be on your feet all day... keep your dogs from barking!

7. Bring pre-printed labels- include your name, wedding date, wedding location, mailing address and wedding email address that you can have readily available to give each of the vendors you meet.

8. Bring your own tote bag- Carry your own tote so you can put all the brochures, cards and "give aways" from vendors. Be sure to have an oversized envelope so you can tuck away the information of vendors that you were really impressed with and might book, thus saving you time sorting through all your stuff after the show!

9. Bring a notebook and pen- Take notes! Take notes! You'll be getting an overload of information. You don't want to forget any of it!

10. Bring your date book- Know your schedule so you can make follow-up appointments with vendors your want to book.

11. Bring your camera- You will see many things and talk with many people. Have a camera on hand so you can take pictures of some of the things you saw during your visit. Did you see a great idea for table settings and centerpieces? Perhaps there was a great cake on display at a cake designer's booth.

12. Bring your color swatches/theme ideas etc- If you have your ideas in hand, a vendor could possibly give you some ideas on how to pull it all together.

13. After the show, organize all your new information immediately! Then make your follow-up phone calls.

Have fun and enjoy the show!

FAB FIND: "Cootie Catcher" favors

2010-06-25T10:17:00.015-04:00

Remember when you were a little girl and made "fortune tellers" in grade school to find out which boy you would marry? Well, now that you found him, why not give your guests a fun and creative favor! These clever little favors crafted by KatsKrafts are a great ice breaker at the tables.

Each cootie is as unique as the couple they are designed for... the possibilities are endless! Kudos to Kat!

It's cake... on a stick!

2010-06-24T23:12:00.063-04:00

I'm loving these adorable wedding cake pops by the ever talented Bakerella.

Some creative ways to use cake pops for your wedding:

What a "sweet" way to ask your friends to be a part of your bridal party!
(The Lollicake Company)

Give to your guests as wedding favors for a delicious treat!
(The Lollicake Company)

Escort cards... what a delicious idea!

(Just A Bite Cake Pops)

Why hire a Wedding Planner?

2010-06-24T08:48:00.013-04:00

There are many reasons to hire a Wedding Planner, but here are the three most important reasons why:

1. Save time- Planning a wedding is a full-time job. There are many big and small details to take into consideration, many decisions to be made and hundreds of vendors to choose from. A planner can do all the leg work for you and recommend vendors that fit your style and budget, saving you days of research and headaches.

2. Save $$- In today's economy, everyone wants to stretch their dollars as far as possible; and, when it comes to weddings, now more than ever, it is essential to know how to get the most bang for your buck. A planner can help you obtain the best catering, florist, music, and other wedding necessities that fit your style and budget.

3. Reduce stress and anxiety- A stressed bride is not a happy bride. Your wedding day should be a day where you can relax, and mingle with your loved ones. The last thing you should be doing is making sure your vendors arrive on time and setting up for your own wedding! Having a planner/coordinator on hand will alleviate stress and free your time to truly enjoy your day.

Stepping away from the traditional rose boutonniere.

2010-06-23T16:19:00.018-04:00

Often times boutonnieres are an overlooked accessory when it comes to a groom's wedding day style, but it's amazing how much personality can be packed into such a tiny little space. More often than not, a florist will suggest a rose boutonniere because of its amazing tolerance to heat and simply because it is abundantly available. Here are few samples of ways you can add a little flair to your guy's boutonniere.

Congratulations! You're engaged. So what now?

2010-06-22T10:24:00.000-04:00

Your wedding day is going to be, undoubtedly, one of the most important days of your life! You've dreamed of this day since you were a little girl and have envisioned that everything is going to be perfect. You want to be involved by taking a hands-on approach to the planning of your big day.

It's true, the very thought of planning a wedding is exciting and full of possibilities. But the reality of it is like putting together a 1000 piece 3D puzzle. Putting all the pieces together precisely to complete the design is the task at hand!

A wedding is a lot like a Broadway show, it has to be written, produced, and directed. As a visual feast for the eyes, a wedding has to have a flow and a tempo. It needs to be as pleasing for your guests as it is for you. As the star of this production, could you imagine being the writer, central character, producer, editor, director and also run interference for all the minor details on your wedding day?

If you plan on having more than 50 guests, the thought of working with a wedding planner/coordinator should be appealing to you. As the creative director for this important celebration, your planner will help you avoid some costly mishaps that could potentially ruin your day. Stay tuned for our discussion about how hiring a planner/coordinator will make for a stress free day!

Welcome!

2010-06-21T18:01:00.002-04:00

Detail by Detail Event Planning is a full-service wedding and event planning firm in the Richmond Metro area. We are committed to bringing your vision to reality. Our event planners are passionate about each and every event and deliver our services in an irreproachable manner that reflects each client's personality and style!

We are grateful for your interest and look forward to the opportunity to assist you with planning one of the biggest days of your life. From concept to completion, intimate or extravagant, pure and simple... detail by detail.