Sweet Bay Prints "Twice As Nice" Special

Sweet Bay Prints is having an amazing Fall special right now that you need to know about. The owner, Sheri Scruggs, has labeled it the "Twice As Nice" special. Any order over 25 will automatically be doubled at no charge on bookmarks, bag tags, enclosures and note cards. As always, their quality is outstanding and they have they best selections around so check them out at http://www.sweetbayprints.com/.

A Perfectly Paced Party

Wondering how to start a timeline for your event? How much time should you allow for everything? Here's your guide to a perfectly paced party:
5:30 Ceremony Start Time
6:00 - 7:00 HD's/Cocktail Hour
7:00 Bride & Groom introduced
7:05 Bride & Groom first dance
7:15 Dinner announced
7:20 Salad Course
7:30 Salad cleared as toasts begin (typically MOH and Best Man)
7:40 Dinner is served
8:00 Bride & father dance
8:05 Groom & mother dance
8:10 Open dancing
8:45 Cake Cutting
9:15 Optional passed desserts begin
9:20 Bridal Bouquet Toss
9:30 Garter Toss
10:00 Last Dance announced
10:10 Bride & Groom Exit
10:30 Guests have all departed

This is a sample timeline, but should give all you DIYers a basic outline for your reception. The most important thing you should keep in mind that isn't necessarily on your timeline, take a few minutes at some point to make out with your husband (who says you have to wait until you leave......boring!)

Facebook Page

OK, OK, Ok ....so I know I'm a little behind with the whole Facebook craziness, but I finally set up a business page! Better late than never. Check it out, join the page (The Eventful Planner) & check back often for new pictures and promotions.

Destin Magazine Feature

Check out our featured wedding including a "behind the scenes" look at area vendors....which, of course, includes yours truly! Enjoy............
http://www.destinmagazine-digital.com/papillon/destinmag2009autumn/?u1=texterity
Pages 64 - 67

Friends who don't make the cut!

I always get asked this question from my clients......How do I tell my friends they are not invited? It can be a sticky situation and you can be put on the spot when friends start to inquire about your wedding. Here's a couple ways to break the bad news in a very PC way when you are faced with the question, "Can I come?"
~If you are having a small wedding, then that's an easy one. Just explain that you really wish you could include all your friends, but the venue is very space restricted so it's turning out to be more of an intimate, family affair. Blaming your venue is a "no brainer".
~Play the economy card: Explain that since you and your fiance are covering the costs of the wedding yourselves, you've had to scale way back on the size of the guest list. Your friends will understand that you still have to pay your mortgage during the wedding planning.
~If you're parents are footing the bill, blame them: This one never fails. Simply explain that since youre parents are paying the tab, you have to stick within their budget and head count; therefore, you won't be able to invite everyone you want to. Blaming your parents for stuff never grows old:)
Ultimately there is never an easy way to let friends know they aren't invited! If they are your real friends then they'll suck it up and throw you a fabulous party when you get home....hint hint!

The Bar Bill

Every bride wants to know how to save on her bar bill. The answer definitely isn't to skip the bar all together (unless your religion frowns upon it or the B&G are both in AA)! Here's some hints to help save you a couple bucks on your bar:
~Skip the full bar
Providing only beer, wine and a couple of signature cocktails will cut your bill in half.
~BYOB
No, I'm not talking about asking your guests to bring their own booze......gasp! I'm talking about choosing a site that allows you to bring in your own alcohol. Most event planners will even help you make a shopping list.
~Tray service
Have the catering staff serve champagne & wine from trays. This way will allow you to buy less expensive brands without worrying who's reading labels.
~Work with the catering staff
Ask that the servers only clear empty glasses. Most times guests put down their drink for a minute to dance or go to the restroom only to have it snatched by a waiter clearing the tables.
~Open bottles as you need them
Ask the bartender to only open bottles as they use them. This will allow you to return bottles that you don't use.
~Time it Right
AVOID overtime if you are locked into a resort bar. This can create a very large bar bill that you didn't already have budgeted.

CHEERS!

Save The Dates

I always get asked about sending out Save the Date Cards.... so here's a few basic hints!
~Who should send them?
Every couple marrying on a holiday weekend or having a destination wedding should have them. For others, they aren't mandatory, but can be alot of fun.
~What's the point?
The point is to give your guests time to plan their trip and schedule accordingly.
~When should you send them?
Mail them out atleast six months ahead, but never more than one year. Be careful of sending them around the holidays too since they may get lost in the Christmas card shuffle. Oh, and obviously everyone who gets a save the date should also get an invitation.
~What info should be included?
Every save the date should include the bride & grooms name, date, city where the ceremony is taking place, "invitation to follow" and your website address for more information (Yes, a website is mandatory for EVERY destination bride and groom!)

There are so many great options out now for Save the Date cards so shop around and find one that suits your budget and most importantly reflects the style of your wedding & your personality!