A Shindig Southern Event Planning

Alexander - Oliver Wedding August 13, 2011

2012-01-28T21:35:00.000-08:00

Not only was this one of my favorite weddings, but I gained an entire family along the way! It was truly an honor to help make this wedding day a dream come true for everyone! Here's to you, Sam and Elizabeth, Tom and Frances!

Readers: Enjoy a few gorgeous pics from the oh so talented Kevin Millard! Vendors for this fabulous occasion also included The Country Club of Landfall, Marshall of Beatty Cakes, Floral Design ~ Sam Haddock, South N' France Bon Bons, and the amazing Andrew Thielen Big Band!

A Shindig on Style Me Pretty

2011-08-30T20:27:00.000-07:00

A Shindig & Style Me Pretty finally meet!

We had the honor and privilege of working from start to finish to help make our dear friends Jesse and Joanna's Wedding, their perfect day! The three girls, (Joanna, Hannah and Jessica) have known each other since the days of basketball, braces, and awkwardness, so seeing this day come to life was both amazing and emotional.

Using the Anthropologie Catalog for inspiration, we were able to transform 128 South to reflect the bohemian, vintage, southern elegant space much like the catalog, and deliver their dream day! Thank you to these amazing vendors! Jacobus Photography for all your hard work to put us on the "Style Me Pretty Map," A Tent Event for all rentals, Fiore Fine Flowers, Airlie Gardens ~ Lebanon Chapel, 128 South, Jeff Oaks 1936 Packard, Nye's Cream Sandwiches, and Hot Pink Cake Stand!

Enjoy! Jessica and Hannah

Walk A Mile In Her Shoes

2010-09-23T13:20:00.000-07:00

A Shindig recently had the opportunity to serve as a sponsor for Walk A Mile 2010. This is a wonderful event that raises money for prevention education for the Rape Crisis Center in Wilmington. Jessica and I were honored to not only be able to help out with decorations and prizes at the event, but also to be around such wonderful men who were supporting the cause.

For those of you who may not be familiar with Walk A Mile, it is an event held around the country where men walk one mile wearing women's heels, or they carry heels around their neck, to raise awareness about sexual assault and violence prevention. Single ladies, this site was proof that there are still lots of good men out there!

A special thanks goes out to A Tent Event (we heart them) who provided the tents, tables, and linens to make the event beautiful!

We look forward to being even more involved next year and growing the event in size!

To learn more about Walk A Mile 2011, or to get involved, contact A Shindig. You can make a difference!

The shoes for a nurse from Dosher Memorial Hospital -very Gaga!

The husband and sons of Lauran Arledge, director of this year's event!

A member of the New Hanover County Sheriff's Department walked with his daughter's shoes.

Rockin' the farmer's tan!

The Best Wedding Movies!

2010-09-07T12:00:00.001-07:00

Jessica's quote from Steel Magnolias last week inspired me to devote an entire blog entry to some of our favorite wedding movies, and scenes from wedding movies, of all time. If you are a bride, or just a lover of chick flicks, these movies a must-haves for you DVD collection! They are some of my go-to favorites for a rainy day inside, or when we are looking for inspiration for our lovely ladies!

Father of the Bride

How can you not love this movie? I remember when it first came out my dad and Uncle Bud watched it on VHS in Myrtle Beach on a family vacation. I was pretty young at the time, but apparently they both were very choked up by watching Steve Martin give away his little girl. In my family, and in Jessica's, it's nothing but girls, so a movie like this certainly tugs at the heart strings. I get particularly emotional watching the scene where little Annie plays basketball with her dad...it brings back some fond memories of games of "around the world" with my dad!

For inspiration in this movie, I simply love Frank. I love everything he does, and I love the way he talks! Considering this was an early 90s movie (I think), Frank was ahead of his time with all the beautiful flowers and the geese around the front yard. What can you learn from this film? A wedding at your childhood home sounds like a great idea in theory, but it is a lot of work! Make sure to hire A Shindig to make this dream come true!

My Best Friend's Wedding

This movie makes me laugh everytime it is on TBS! My particular favorites are the bridemaids/cousins who are less-than-classy. What was with those dresses they wore? This was a full-scale wedding weekend complete with multiple dinners, luncheons, and who knows what else before the actual big day. You may not want to go as all-out as they did in the movie, but having several events for your guests is a great way to make the weekend memorable. We are happy to help arrange luncheons, shrimp-a-roos, brunches, or any other type of event to keep your guests entertained!

The Wedding Planner

I'm not going to lie, this movie was part of my inspiration for pursing this career path! I love how organized Jennifer Lopez's character is as a wedding planner! She thinks of every detail for her brides and knows exactly how to give them the day they have envisioned. Please note that if you are a client of ours and you put me on a horse like they did with JLo, it will end similarly - with a runaway horse and a disheveled planner on her rear-end! I'm not cut out for it, but I am happy to give it a shot for any client!

Wedding Crashers

This is probably the only movie on this list you didn't have to force your fiance to watch with you! Every guy on the planet instantly memorized quotes from this movie as if their lives depended on it! Aside from the all the humor and girl-catching, there were some beautiful decor ideas in this movie. The "house" where the family went following the wedding was actually The Inn at Perry Cabin in St. Michaels, Maryland. They do plenty of weddings on the property and I can see why! What a beautiful location for a traditional wedding!

Sex and the City

So maybe the Big wedding didn't happen in the movie as planned, but you gotta give it to Carrie, Charlotte and Anthony for planning a spectacular event! However, the lesson to be learned from Carrie's catastrophe is not to let the day overshadow what it is you are actually doing! I have said this time and time again to brides. It is so easy to get caught up in the dress, the venue, the music, etc. Remember that you are making a committment to a partner for life, and this is the most treasured part of that day. So if you want to do that in a vintage suit at the courthouse, by all means do it. Never be pressured by friends and family to have an event you are not truly interested in! This day is for you and your fiance, and nobody else! But if a swanky wedding in a library or any other venue is more your taste - you've come to right place. We can give Anthony Marintino a run for his money! :)

The Wedding Singer

What a great way to pay homage to the weddings of the 80s! I know that fashion has a tendency to repeat itself, but can we all agree to never wear poofy sleeved wedding dresses again - ever?! Adam Sandler cracks me up in this film! But one of the best moments is at the very end when he sings "I Wanna Grow Old With You" to Julia. What a sweet moment! That song truly captures what a marriage is all about...it's being with someone who will help you with the dishes, share the remote, and take care of you when you are sick or feeling down. Who knew Adam Sandler would teach us one of the most important lessons about life and love?

That's all for now! Have a great week everyone!

Cheers!

Hannah

COLOR, COLOR, COLOR!

2010-08-31T13:37:00.000-07:00

"My Colors! My Colors! My colors are blush and bashful."
- Shelby, Steel Magnolias

Oh how we love those wedding movies! Whether you are absolutely sure of your wedding colors and have been since you were five, or maybe you need a few hints to send you in the right direction: This Post is for you! A fun and informative look at color and style for our brides today!

Thankfully, today we have amazing websites and magazines such as In Style and The Knot that provide our brides with breathtaking visuals to help get those creative juices flowing! From what we've heard, many of you, even with these tools, still need assistance from a team like ours to bring it all together! So we present the quick and easy color combo list to get you started!

The first color presented is the main bulk of color to be displayed with an accent color to compliment!

PINK: pink/turquoise ~ pink/champagne ~ pink/sunset

ORANGE: orange/royal blue ~ orange/violet ~ orange/yellow

LIME: lime/royal ~ lime/raspberry red ~ lime/pink

PURPLE/PLUM: plum/pink ~ plum/sunset ~ plum/navy

RED: red/pink ~ red/aqua ~ red/eggplant

YELLOW: yellow/steel ~ yellow/celery ~ yellow/gold

A Shindig loves helping our brides develop that one tiny must have detail or color into a full design plan, turning their wedding dreams into reality right before their very eyes. We can't wait to be a part of your BIG Day!

Happy Tuesday!
jessica

A Clinton Style Wedding in Wilmington!

2010-08-02T11:05:00.001-07:00

With all the chatter about Chelsea Clinton's wedding in New York over the weekend, I thought I'd put together my own version of her beautiful, and very classy, wedding right here in the Port City. What made Chelsea's wedding so amazing (from what little I can gather from the pictures) was the level of elegance in every detail. So let's look at how you can re-create that look...

Ceremony and Reception Location - Cape Fear Country Club

To achieve the "White House" look from Chelsea's wedding, select a classic venue like Cape Fear Country Club. Your guests will be impressed as they drive up the circular driveway to the Hampton's-like country club. Once inside, they will be impressed with the opulent, yet tasteful, decor and the amazing food!

Wedding Dress

Chelsea's dress was Ah-Mazing! However, not everyone can have Vera Wang design their dress, and then have her at the ceremony to fluff before they dash down the aisle! For the same look that Chelsea had, check out the Blue by Enzoani dress "Croatia." I love the crystal detail around the bodice, and the gathered skirt. This line is carried at A Carolina Wedding in Wilmington.

Bridesmaid Dresses - Dessy Collection Style #2503

Pictures of the wedding party have not been released yet, and it's doubtful that they will be. So, I used the look Chelsea was going for to come up with what I would pair with the rest of the elegant theme for the wedding to come up with this bridesmaid dress. I think the lace overlay exudes class and elegance. The tea-length skirt is the perfect combination of class and sass. This dress is also available at A Carolina Wedding in Wilmington.

Flowers

Again, the color palette for the wedding isn't really known. The only flowers shown in the few photos released were Chelsea's all white bridal bouquet. If it were up to me, I would use a mixture of whites, ivories, and yellows to integrate into the rest of the color scheme. Here are some flowers I would have picked for the bride, the maids, and centerpieces. Island Florals by Roxanne in Wilmington is a great local florist to go to if you want to achieve this look, or anything else!

Bridal Bouquet

Bridesmaid's Bouquet (the yellow will really pop against the black!)

Centerpiece 1 - Low, tapered, and all white

Centerpiece 2 - Tall, colorful, and flowing. This provides a great contrast between the two tables.

Cake

To coincide with Chelsea's classic elegance theme, I would select a cake that is simple, yet sophisticated, with just a touch of pizazz. The look of this white fondant round tiered cake gives you exactly that when the band of Swarovski crystals is added to each layer, and then topped with roses. Contact Crumb de la Crumb in Shallotte to get this amazing look, and a cake that tastes phenomenal!

Music

For a classy wedding, you can't go wrong with The Wilmington Big Band! This 17-piece orchestra will keep your guests dancing all night with classics like "Under the Boardwalk" and "Summertime Is Calling Me." I also love that the band is always decked out in tuxedos, which adds to the atmosphere you will be creating with a wedding like Chelsea's!

Remember to call A Shindig to achieve this wedding look, or one that is completely different! We love creating events for our clients that are as YOU-nique as they are!

Have a great weekend everyone!

Hannah

Tip of The Week - Unexpected Dress Deals!

2010-07-28T06:51:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!

I was browsing the Internet today for a cocktail dress for myself for a girl's night out, and came across so many stores that are now jumping on the bridesmaid and wedding dress bandwagon. Thanks to retailers like JCrew and Ann Taylor who started the trend, many big-name clothing chains are cashing in on this industry.

What does this mean for you? It means fabulous coutoure-esque dresses at bargain prices! It also means for your maids the opportunity to order their dress on-line without having to deal with the hassel of being fitted in a bridal store. Here are some of my personal favorites I came across today! Let me know if any of your have purchased one of these! I'd love to hear your opinions on their quailty and style!

Wedding Gowns

The Limited - I have loved this store since I was 6 years old and shopped at The Limited Too. Don't lie ladies, you also had the matching flower t-shirt, shorts, socks, belt, and of course - the scrunchie! Now that we are grown-ups, they have stepped up their style and created gorgeous wedding dresses any gal would be lucky to wear!

Romantic Wedding Gown - $298

White House Black Market - Another favorite store of mine, it's always my go-to location for the perfect LBD (little black dress). Now they have created a limited edition bridal gown that reminds me of something you would see on the runway, except it's only $498! Now, I will tell you that this look is not for everyone. I can't promise you that in 20 years you will be loving this dress as much as you might a more traditional look, but for all you trendy ladies out there, this is one to check out!

Limited Edition Bridal Gown - $498

JCrew - As I said before, JCrew pioneered the traditional retail clothing outlet crossing over into the bridal market. I must warn you, however, not all their dresses are inexpensive. Some cost as much as $3,000! But, they are beautiful! Here's a gorgeous one I found that would be so perfect for a beach wedding. I can just see the chiffon flowing in the breeze...

Silk Chiffon Arabelle Crinckle Gown - $425

Nordstrom - Nordies has a great selection of special occasion dresses that you can totally rock as a wedding gown, especially if the idea of a train has you tripping (get it? tripping? hahaha). Here are some of my favorites from the department store guru.

Sue Wong Drop Waist Embellished Lace Gown - $598

JS Boutique Beaded Crisscross Matte Jersey Gown - $178

Bridesmaids Dresses

We have already done one feature on inexpensive bridesmaids dresses, so today I am only going to focus on 2 retailers - Target and Forever 21. Never in a million years did I think these two retailers would be able to create cute bridesmaids dresses, but they have, and you will love them!

Target - Who doesn't love this store? If you are like me, every time you go in there for toilet paper, you walk out with $100 worth of items and you have no idea how they got there! I am in love with these two adoreable looks - and even more in love with their prices! Consider pairing them with a fun colored shoe, such as an emerald green for the navy dress or an eggplant purple with the yellow!

Merona Collection Party Dress With Sash in Navy Voyage - $29.99

Mossimo Black Strapless Dress in Yellow - $24.99

Forever 21 - I love finding deals at Forever 21! From their dresses to jewelry, it's a great way to capture what is in style at the moment without spending a fortune! I was surprised, however, to see them create some dresses that are the appropriate length for a bridesmaid. After all, your wedding shouldn't be about who can show the most leg! Save that for the bachelorette party!

Floral Sheen Dress in Charcoal $27.80

Dashing Duo Dress $34.80

Strapless Trophy Dress $34.80

Pleated One Shoulder Dress $32.80

That does it! If you find other dresses that would look great on this list, send them our way and I will post them! Hope everyone is having a fantastic week!

Cheers!

Hannah

Tip of the Week: Wedding Planning Dos and Don'ts

2010-07-13T11:41:00.000-07:00

Happy Summer Blog Fans!

It has been a hot (no pun intended!) minute since I had the opportunity to post on our blog! Jessica and I have been busy with helping our brides have the day of their dreams!

I wanted to write today about some general dos and don'ts when it comes to planning your dream wedding. If you follow our suggestions, you are sure to have a stress-free planning experience!

1.) Do Hire A Wedding Planner!
We aren't just saying this because it's how we put food on the table, it actually is a necessary person to involve in your big day. After all, you don't try to cook all the food for your guests do you? Of course not! You hire a caterer! The same is true for the planning process. Your experience will be much more enjoyable if you leave it to the pros to lead you to reputable vendors who will treat you like the queen you are! Additionally, your wedding planner will be there with you on the day of your event to make sure that everyone sticks to their contracts and the day goes off without a hitch! Don't ever fear that hiring a wedding planner means you won't have a hand in the process. We love when our brides want to be a big part of the planning process, but certainly understand if work or distance makes this difficult!

2.) Do Set A Budget
Weddings are expensive, and should be viewed as a major purchase. Just as if you were purchasing a car or house, have an idea in mind beforehand of how much you would like to spend. Talk to your wedding planner about this number at your first meeting. This will help her point you in the direction of vendors who best suit your style and budget. If your parents are paying for some or all of the wedding, make sure they are on the same page as you are with that number. That brings us to our first don't...

3.) Don't Go Over Budget!
As you go through your planning process, you are sure to see ideas that are very appealing and that you think you might have to have. Remember that while this day is one you have been dreaming of for a long time, it's not worth starting your marriage out in debt. If you can't afford it now, set a goal to have it at your vow renewal in 10 years. Those Chiavari chairs will still be around - promise!

4.) Do Demand A Contract From Every Vendor
If you have followed "Do" number 1, your wedding planner will handle this for you! If not, however, make sure you ask each vendor for a contract in writing that you have both signed. You should read the contract in its entirety before signing, and don't feel bad about asking questions if something sounds confusing. It's always better for everyone involved to clear these things up early in the process, rather than the week before your event! Keep each contract until the services has been completely provided. This means for vendors such as photographers and videographers, you will need to hang onto it until you receive your album or DVD. If your photos come with a lifetime guarantee, you will need to keep the contract forever in case you need to replace these precious memories.

5.) Don't Spend Too Much Time Looking At Magazines
The wedding industry is very similar to the fashion industry in the sense that what is "in" conveniently changes about every quarter when the major magazines are published. You will become overwhelmed with ideas, color schemes, etc. and won't know which end is up. Once you have flipped through some and found your inspiration, stick with it! The same is true with your wedding gown. There will always be a new style, a new designer, or a new dress that will look amazing on you. If you get caught up in the "What if there's something better game?" you will never find a dress! After all, if this is how you approached dating, you wouldn't be getting married in the first place!

6.) Do Make This Day About You and Your Husband
A wedding is one day, but a marriage is a life-long commitment. Try to avoid getting caught up in what food to eat, what color linens to have, or where to go on the honeymoon. Remember that you have a lifetime ahead of you with this person, and this day is about celebrating that commitment and your enduring love for one another. Each time you want to roll your eyes at your fiance because he thinks the registry gun is the best part of getting married, remember how you felt the first time he kissed you - now that is something to celebrate!

For more wedding planning advice, call us for a free consultation! We'd love to meet you and make your day an unforgettable Shindig!

Cheers!
Hannah

Tip of The Week - Your Guests Are Here! Now What?

2010-06-14T13:33:00.000-07:00

Holy Hot Monday Blog-fans! If you were doubting the arrival of summer, go outside today. I stepped out for a few minutes and the heat actually took my breath away! If you or a loved one works outside for a living, please be careful in heat like this!

I wanted to talk today about what to do with your guests when they arrive in town for your big day. Wilmington and it's surrounding areas have so much to offer, so it's no surprise that folks may want to stay for a long weekend and have a mini-vaca while attending your wedding. However, don't be shocked if they turn to you for ideas about what to do. I have found it's a nice gesture to include a list of places you and your hunny find special in welcome bags for guests. To go the extra mile, order beach bags or sand pails instead of traditional bags for your guests. They will appreciate the beachy touch!

Some places for your guests to check out in the area:
The Battleship North Carolina - This is a classic tourist spot on the riverfront. Even if you aren't that into history, you will still find this landmark super cool! It's very interesting to see how soldiers lived while fighting for our country, and it will make you appreciate your cozy bed!

The Wilmington Children's Museum - Located in downtown Wilmington, this is a great spot to take kiddos, especially if the weather isn't cooperating. For a day of fun, it's not very expensive. I guarantee the parents will have just as much fun firing the cannon on the pirate ship!

Beaches - Tell your guests about your favorite beach spots. Remember places like the North End of Carolina Beach where 4 wheel drive vehicles can have have their own private spot to play, eat, and even take the family dog! This location is ideal for families with small children because you can avoid looking for a parking spot and lugging chairs and toys to the sand. Just put it in park and open the trunk!

Restaurants
People love to try local spots when visiting. Provide guests with a list of special spots - maybe the restaurant where you had your first date, the place you ate at the night he proposed, etc. Don't forget about cool local spots such as:
- Britts Donuts in Carolina Beach
- Tower 7 and K38
- South Beach Grill (the fried pickles are Hannah's favorite!)
- The Little Dipper Fondue
- Trolley Stop Hot Dogs
- Any of the Port City Java locations

Shopping
What's a vacation without a little retail therapy? Here are some of my favorite spots for unique finds and great deals on local treasure!
- Blue Moon Gallery on Racine Drive
- Lumina Station
- The Forum
- Mayfaire Towne Center
- The Ivy Cottage

Entertainment
Wilmington has great nightlife that ranges from clubs, to upscale lounges, to flip-flop and tank-top beach bars. My top picks...
- Grand Union Pub at The Forum
- The Dirty Martini in Lumina Station
- Pravda in Downtown Wilmington
- The Reel Cafe in Downtown Wilmington

By providing your guests with these options, you can ensure that your wedding weekend will not only be a spectacular celebration of your marriage, but it will also be a memorable vacation. Your guests will love getting to know the area you call "home."

If you have any other suggestions, feel free to add them in the comments section!

Stay cool out there!
Hannah

Tip of The Week - Anniversaries

2010-06-08T06:25:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone!

It has been a week or so since I last blogged. Jessica and I have been busy getting ready for many upcoming summer weddings! I wanted to use this weeks blog entry to talk about anniversary gifts!

Today, June 8 , 2010 my amazing parents, Ron and Beth Manson, are celebrating 36 years of marriage! Congratulations to them! Many of our friends and followers of this blog have had the opportunity to meet my parents, and many of our brides know them as well. They are often behind the scenes on wedding days helping set tables or construct an outdoor aisle. Nevertheless, if you have been blessed to know them, you know how lucky I am to have them as parents. So, Mom and Dad, today's entry is dedicated to you and the wonderful love you have for one another and the love you have shown me. Thank you for teaching Brittany and me what it means to love unconditionally. If we could all be so lucky to expereince what you have!

Now, onto what to give your significant other on the day you celebrate your commitment to your marriage.

1st Anniversary

Traditionally, the gift on the first anniversary is paper. This can come in many forms, whether it's personalized stationary from Mindy and Angie's Fine Paper, or a piece of artwork that reminds you of a special place. Maybe a photograph of the beach where you spent your honeymoon. My brother-in-law had a drawing of their dogs made for my sister on their first anniversary, I thought that was unique!

William Arthur Stationary - Available at Mindy and Angie's Fine Paper

For the more modern couple, you can go with a clock. This is a great way to add an accessory to your home while reminding you of the fact that while time will inevitably pass, your love for one another will not.

Clock - www.ballarddesigns.com

5th Anniversary

When celebrating this milestone, the traditional gift is wood. I am picturing that years ago a husband would go chop down a tree and carve a gift for his lady. Good luck getting your guy to go do this! There are, however, some interesting and unique wood-themed gifts to choose from. If you can't find anything, rent a cabin in the woods for the weekend!

Pottery Barn Wooden Candlesticks - www.potterybarn.com

Again, the modern twist on this anniversary is silver. Maybe wives over the years had enough of carved hearts from the pine trees of their backyard! While many couples register for everyday flatware when they get married, sometimes the fine silver is left off the list due to practicality. This is a great opportunity to get a set of nice silverware for your dining room table for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.

Kate Spade Union Street Silverware - www.macys.com

10th Anniversary

The traditional 10th anniversary gift is pottery. This can come in the form of a special pot, plate or a gift card to Pottery Barn! Remember that what makes a gift special is when you put your own spin on it!

For the modern couple, go for leather. There are endless possibilities for how you can exchange a gift of leather. Whether it's a leather jacket for the couple who enjoys biking, or a pair of Jimmy Choo leather boots!

25th Anniversary

There is only one gift to give on the 25th anniversary - silver. Unlike the modern twist of the 5th anniversary, however, this should be jewelry. For the ladies this can mean earrings, a necklace, a broach, bracelet, or watch. For the fellas, this usually means a watch. If you are attending a 25th anniversary party, a piece of silver for the home is an appropriate gift.

Silver Tag Heuer Watch - www.tagheuer.com

50th Anniversary

This is a monumental milestone, and can only be celebrated with gold. Similar to the 25th anniversary, this is usually in the form of jewelry. An upgraded wedding band, a beautiful necklace that can be passed down to children or grandchildren, or a nice watch. Whatever gift is given on this anniversary should be given much thought as the couple has weathered many years together and should be honored for their commitment and love for one another.

Tacori Necklace - www.tacori.com

Tacori Ring - www.tacori.com

That sums it up! Congratulations again to my parents on celebrating 36 years, 2 amazing girls (if I might say so myself!), 3 crazy cats, and quite possibly the world's most adoreable and smart grandson ever! Love you Mom and Dad!

Remember that A Shindig plans anniversary parties too! If you are throwing an anniversary bash for yourself or your parents, contact us to help with all the detials so you can enjoy the celebration!

Cheers!

Hannah

Hunt for the Perfect Honeymoon!

2010-05-24T13:47:00.001-07:00

Hello Everyone! It's Hannah writing today!

In the spirit of Memorial Day Weekend and the official start of summer, I thought I would take the time to research some fantastic honeymoon or just-for-fun getaway destinations. I must say that researching this topic has really made me want to pack a bag and head out for the weekend to some exotic location! Here are some of my favorite spots I visited on my cyber-holiday...enjoy!

Conrad by Hilton Maldieves Rangali Island

How could you not think this place is paradise? Aside from the crystal clear water and white sand, there is a restaurant UNDER WATER! You can eat your fish, while you watch fish swim all around you...kind of like a reverse aquarium. This place is the ultimate luxury honeymoon destination! It might take a while to get there by plane, but it looks like it would be well worth the trip! If any of you blog followers end up going here, can I please sneak into your bag?

Kauai Marriott Resort and Beach Club Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii

I actually had the opportunity to visit this beautiful island on a family vacation a few years ago and it is absolutely amazing! Kalapaki Bay, where the Marriott is located, is calm and serene. Ask my sister and her husband about getting a massage on the beach - I was jealous! The grounds are lush and beautiful; you feel like you are walking through a tropical rain forest. If you visit Kauai, I recommend taking a door less helicopter ride with Jack Harter Helicopters, going on a zip-line tour with Kauai Backcountry Adventures (ask for Pono to be your tourguide!), and taking a day trip up to where the Napali Coast begins...making sure to stop at Bubba Burgers for what is sure to be the best hamburger you will have - ever!

Jade Mountain St. Lucia

Ok, I admit it, I still watch The Bachelor! I first saw this exquisite resort on the season finale of The Bachelor when Jake passed over sweet Tenley for the less-than-classy Vienna. The views from the rooms are amazing! I am totally impressed by all the bridges that connect various rooms and dining areas. This is what paradise is all about!

San Antonio Resort Imerovigli, Greece

Nothing says romance like an infinity pool! Greece is beautiful, romantic, and full of history and culture. Whether you want to go relax in the lap of luxury, or watch your new hubby channel his inner Russell Crowe in Gladiator, you will certainly never have a dull moment!

Sea Island Georgia

Jessica and her hubby had the wonderful opportunity to spend a long weekend here last month and she raved about it! If you are the type of person who enjoys being waited on hand and foot (really, who doesn't?), then this is the spot for you! According to Jessica, as soon as they arrived the staff knew their names! How crazy is that?! She also loved the food, southern hospitality, and beautiful surroundings. Sea Island also offers a plethora of activities to keep you busy, or you can relax in their amazing spa. Plus, it's so close you can drive there and save the money you would have spent on airfare for some shopping in their adorable boutiques!

Cheeca Lodge and Spa Islamorada, Florida Keys

If you have never had the opportunity to visit the Florida Keys, I highly suggest you go! You will have a hard time believing you are still in the United States! Islamorada is in the middle of the Keys, and you can easily access it from the Key West or Miami airports. You can enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the resort and island, or hope over to Key West for a night out on Duval Street while you celebrate your marriage Jimmy Buffet style!

Some other locations to check out:

- Couples Swept Away Negril, Jamaica

- Turtle Bay Resort Ohau, Hawaii

- Grace Bay Club Turks and Caicos

- Esperanza Resort Cabo San Lucas

REMEMBER! You can register your honeymoon! This is a great way to get the trip of your dreams, especially if you already have all the pots, pans, and plates your heart could desire! Check out http://www.honeymoonwishes.com/ or http://www.honeyfund.com/ to start your free registry!

Happy Monday and Happy Travels! Be safe this holiday weekend!

Hannah

Tip of The Week - Attendant Gifts

2010-05-10T10:20:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday again to each of you! Many of our brides are quickly approaching their wedding dates and one question we are frequently asked is, "What should we get for our bridesmaids and groomsmen?" This is such a toughie, because you want your gift to be memorable, but also something your guys and girls will actually use. So, Hannah took to the Internet to come up with some cool gifts that are not the typical necklace for the maids and flask for the fellas. Hope you enjoy what we found!

For the Bridesmaids:

Consider taking your girls for a special treat on the day before the wedding. Odds are they will want their fingers and toes looking nice for your big day (and you'll want them looking good, too!) so take them to a salon where you can sit together while being pampered. For an added touch, give each girl a bottle of OPI nail polish with a fun name that suits her personality. For a salon we love the ladies at Bangz Salon and Spa on 43rd Street! Just be sure to book at least a month in advance!

Coach Wristlets: $48 http://www.coach.com/ These are great if you have girls who enjoy going out on the town!

Rainbow Sandals: $44.99 http://www.rainbowsandals.com/ These iconic southern beach shoes now come in a variety of colors. Why not treat your maids to a pair in your wedding colors that they can slip on during the reception? Their feet will appreciate it!

Starfish Necklace: $108 http://www.whitehouseblackmarket/ LOVE this necklace! If you are having a beach wedding and want to treat your girls to a beautiful statement necklace that will always remind them of your big day - This. Is. It.

Taste Test Recipe Book: $28 http://www.anthropologie.com/ This recipe book is vintage chic and practical at the same time. It's divided into sections (breakfast, lunch, dinner) for you to write in, and has pockets for your favorite recipes from Mom and Nana. As a special touch, add your favorite recipes in for your bridesmaids. Each time they cook, they will think of you!

For the Grooms-Guys:

If the girls can go have a ladies day at the spa, then the guys can be treated to a fun day with the fellas! Arrange for a round of golf with the boys the day before the wedding, or take everyone to a local baseball park. If you can swing it (no pun intended), spring for a box at the ballpark. It will come complete with food and beverages for everyone to enjoy!

Collegiate Tervis Tumblers: $33 for 24oz. 2 pack tumbler http://www.tervis.com/ Order a tumbler from your groomsman's Alma Mater. He will love how cool it keeps his beverage, and the lady in his life will love that the cup didn't actually come from a drink purchase at a football game :-)

Stub Hub Gift Certificate: $25-$500 Your guys will love these gift certificates! They can use them to purchase tickets to different collegiate and pro sporting events, or concerts.

iTunes Gift Certificate: $15-$100 Along the same lines, this gift card allows your techie fellas to download their favorite tunes and movies.

Happy shopping everyone! If you have a cool gift you don't see listed on here, please add it to the comments section or send us a wall post on Facebook!

Tip Of The Week: Warm Weather Weddings

2010-05-03T08:02:00.000-07:00

Happy Hot Monday Everyone!

It seems like April left and summer arrived! Such is often the case in Wilmington! We will have one or two days of beautiful 70 degree temps and low humidity, and then BOOM, we are socked with big hair and high temps! Nevertheless, the summer months in the south are some of the most popular for weddings. If you are planning to wed this time of year, you need to be aware of some challenges that may come your way. Here are some tips we have generated from our experience as planners and guests at summer weddings:

1.) If you are having an outdoor wedding, have a backup plan. This is a must, especially in the summer. Around here it can be beautiful one minute and raining cats and dogs the next. It will cost extra to book a second location, but the peace of mind you will have knowing you won't get drenched a la "Jason and Molly's Bachelor Wedding Nightmare" will be priceless! We love the Kenan Chapel at Landfall for this purpose. Their price is incredibly reasonable, there's a bride's room for you to get ready in, AND it's cute as a button!

Keenan Chapel at Landfall

2.) Start on time! Again, this is especially true for outdoor weddings. There is nothing more unattractive to your guests than watching the water stains grow on the sweaty uncle in front of them. You really don't want that in your pictures! Also, in lieu of the traditional program which your guests will bend into fans, why not get one step ahead of them and give them a fan-program? These programs from Etsy are super-cute and island feeling!

Etsy Programs: $3 each for 96 or more - http://www.etsy.com/

3.) Pick the right flowers. Certain flowers are more heat-hardy than others. For example, hydrangea are beautiful, but once cut can get kind of wimpy in the heat. If you want to use these beautiful buds, just remember to keep them inside and cool until the last minute. Always consult with your florist about what blooms will be best suited for your event.

4.) Go for fondant. Yes, it tastes like paste, we know. Jessica and Hannah are big cake fans - suffice to say it might be their favorite part of this job! However, a butter cream cake in a 105 degree July heat index that is sweating and leaning is stressful! To compromise on taste and beauty, we suggest asking for butter cream frosting that is covered in a layer of fondant. This will preserve the integrity of the cake, and if you hate the fondant, it peels right off of your slice!

5.) Beauty-Proof Yourself. Your wedding day is the one day of your life you really should invest in good hair and make-up products, and hopefully a professional to apply them for you. These days, more and more girls steer clear from liquid foundations and gravitate towards a mineral. For an everyday look this is great, but in summer heat, it doesn't stand a chance. Go for an oil-free long wearing liquid foundation. If it has some SPF in it, even better! Also, think about wearing your hair up. Hot temps and humidity make for big hair or flat hair - neither or which is a good thing! Have a run through with your stylist to play with some cute up-dos that you won't have to worry about all night! Keep a bottle of Sebastian Shaper Plus hairspray handy to decrease frizz and keep your locks in place.

Bobbi Brown Natural Finish Long Lasting Foundation: $45 http://www.bobbibrowncosmetics.com/

Sebastian Shaper Plus Hairspray: $14.99 - www. ulta.com

6.) SUNSCREEN! Nothing is worse than starting your honeymoon already burnt! Make sure to put sunscreen (at least SPF 30) on your face and body. We love Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock for your face and Neutrogena Fresh Cooling Body Mist for your body.

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock SPF 30: $9.99 at Target

Neutrogena Fresh Cooling Body Mist Sunblock SPF 45: $11.99 at Target

Tip Of The Week - Bridesmaid Dresses

2010-04-26T11:23:00.000-07:00

Tip of the Week - Bridesmaid's Dresses

Hey Everyone! It's Hannah writing today! Last night I was hanging out with my super sweet and hilarious cousin Elizabeth who has more real-life friends than I have as Facebook-friends :-) We always pick on her about how many close girlfriends she has, but she is an amazing friend, so I'm not surprised. Now that many of her girls are getting married, she is establishing quite the collection of bridesmaid dresses. I thought after our converstation last night that I would dedicate today's entry to chic and inexpensive bridesmaid dresses.

Brides, can we all agree to steer clear from $400 couture gowns for your best gal pals? Years ago you were pretty much limited to these high-end designer gowns, but these days the rules are few and the options are unlimited. Get creative and show off your gorgeous friends in something they actually love! They will also love the smaller pricetag, which may come back to benefit you with a killer bachelorette party or an awesome wedding gift. Everybody wins!

Here are some of my personal favorites - and they are all under $100! Woohoo

JS Boutique Strapless Dress in Purple Haze - $54.90 from www.nordstrom.com

Adrianna Papell Rosette Halter Dress in Teal - $87.90 from www.nordstrom.com

Rising Vapor Dress in Black - $98 from www.anthropologie.com

Ruffle Front Halter Dress in Green - $89 from www.thelimited.com

Haute Couture Dress in Poppy (or a hundred other colors!) - $89 from www.etsy.com

Now do your maids a favor and pick one of these cute dresses! And if you need a professional bridesmaid, feel free to call my cousin :-)

Happy Monday!
Hannah

TIP OF THE WEEK: Your First Dance!

2010-04-19T11:02:00.000-07:00

So you've picked out your dress, your venue, your flowers, and hopefully you've hired the best wedding planners (A Shindig) to be a part of your big day! Now it's time for one of the more special parts of your wedding day, your first dance with your new bride or groom. For many couples, the first dance is a way to express their love for one another, and their individuality. This is a time when you can have fun, be romantic, or down right sappy. It all depends on the type of couple you are!

Hannah recently took to the land of Facebook to get ideas from her friends and family on what their first dances were. The responses covered all genres and time periods - it was so fun to see what songs were important to these people.

Here's the list they came up with:

Rascal Flatts - "Bless The Broken Road"

Jay Clifford of Jump Little Children - "By The Way They Dance"

Van Morrison - "Mystic"

Ray Lamontange - "Hold You In My Arms"

Bob Marley - "3 Little Birds"

Norah Jones - "Come Away With Me"

Beyonce - "At Last"

Kenny Chesney - "Me and You"

Taylor Dane - "I'll Always Love You"

Gavin Degraw - "Meaning"

Thanks to everyone who responded! Many of these songs we had never heard of, but hopefully what was special to you will inspire others!

Now onto some of our favorite first dance songs (we've heard a lot!)...

Sister Hazel - "This Kind of Love"

John Legend - "Stay With You"

Dave Barnes - "Nothing Fancy"

Dave Barnes - "I Have and Always Will"

Dave Barnes - "My Girl" *This is featured on our website!

Ben Folds - "The Luckiest"

Jack Johnson - "Better Together"

Zack Brown Band - "Got Whatever It Is"

Jason Aldean and Bryan Adams - "Heaven"

Ingrid Michaelson - "The Way I Am"

Queen - "You're My Best Friend"

If you are still having trouble finding that perfect song, take a cue from this couple's version of The Evolution of Dance - it's hilarious!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QujA8YYgTWU&feature=youtube_gdata

Feel free to add a comment to this ever-growing list of what you will be dancing to at your wedding, or any other memorable first-dance songs!

Have a great week! Don't forget to come visit us this Sunday at the Cameron Art Museum from 11 to 4 - it's FREE!

Jessica and Hannah

The Cameron Art Museum Wedding Open House

2010-04-14T19:13:00.000-07:00

We were thrilled when given the opportunity to be a part of the Open House at The Cameron Art Museum on Sunday, April 25th! The Cameron Art Museum provides a perfect and unique space for so many brides and grooms to gather with those closest to them and celebrate their special day!

The Museum will be open, FREE to the public from 11 am to 4 pm showcasing a hand full of amazing wedding vendors! Come see our tables and enjoy yourself! Hope to see you all there!!

TIP OF THE WEEK: Monogram Madness

2010-04-12T11:07:00.000-07:00

With wedding season right around the corner, many brides and grooms register for gifts and request that they be monogrammed. Some brides even have a Monogram Shower (a great way to receive items with your new last name!). Whether you are a bride, groom, or guest, here are a few tips from the etiquette books on how the monogram for the new couple should be written.

In general, if the gift is for the couple, the monogram should have the couple's initials. If the gift is linens, the bride's first name will come first since linens are considered to be the bride's domain. So, let's use Jessica and Christian Gibbs for an example. If you are purchasing sheets, towels, or other linens for this sweet couple, the monogram would read J G C. If you are looking at wedding invitations and stationary, programs, or a cake monogram, the bride's initial will once again come first.

However, if the gift is glassware or any other type gift not directly the "bride's domain," the groom's initials will come first, as well as, once the happy couple are married. Jessica and Christian's monogram on these items would read C G J. Remember, with post-marital bliss stationary, the groom's initial will always come first where as before the wedding, the bride's. So much to keep up with, we know! Hopefully this guide will help you along your way!

Here are some of our favorite monogrammed gifts for couples!

Pottery Barn Square Vases - These simple and understated vases have the monogram etched into the glass and are a steal at $12 to $44. PLUS they are offering free shipping!

Red Envelope Chenielle Throw - $59.95. Who doesn't love a cozy throw on the couch to snuggle with your honey with some wine after a hard day at work?

Restoration Hardware Monogrammed Turkish Towels - $16 to $46. Available in 28 colors, you can find the perfect towel to compliment any bathroom! These feel amazing and will last forever!

Williams Sonoma Rope Bedding - $58 to $388. It's a little on the pricey side, but nothing feels better than quality bedding. If there is one thing to splurge on as a new couple, this is it!

Happy Shopping!

Cape Fear Wedding Association Luncheon

2010-03-27T20:37:00.000-07:00

We were honored to be asked to design for the Cape Fear Wedding Association's Luncheon which was held at Shell Island Resort at Wrightsville Beach in January, and we were even more excited about the theme "New York, New York!" What an awesome opportunity to collaborate with some of Wilmington's finest vendors to provide an afternoon of fun, glamour, and entertainment for our fellow association members. Thank you to Kate Meyer, President of the Association for planning the bulk of the event and presentation. Also, thank you to Jeanne Bua and her amazing staff with Shell Island, Roxanne and Shelley of Island Florals by Roxanne for the snazzy centerpieces, Lavada Holmes of A Tent Event for the overlays and chair sashes, Kevin Millard of KMI Photography for snapping these gorgeous pictures you are now viewing, Brain and Eric of DJ Professionals for music and lighting, and to all of the other vendors who provided entertainment and gifts for door prizes.

We incorporated different elements of black and red to achieve that "New York" feel right here in North Carolina, from red zebra print ribbon and black boas to, of course, red apples and a gorgeous ice sculpture provided by Shell Island. Sit back and enjoy the show!

On Our Way!

2010-02-19T20:52:00.000-08:00

The Shindig Team is in the process of creating this blog to keep you updated on our latest events and weekly tips to help you make your event a success! Stay tuned for our latest news and photos of recent events!