Wednesday, March 17, 2010

Scintillating Centerpieces!


Whether you go with understated elegance or extravagant opulence, decorations are a big part of the look, feel, and mood of your reception. Centerpieces for your tables are the most front-and-center of these decorations, since you and your guests will literally surround them for hours while you eat, drink, and talk. Here are a few ideas to make your centerpieces really shine.

1. Prop centerpieces. Who says you have to use all flowers, or even any flowers at all? Raise a few pretty and/or meaningful items on cake stands or glass platforms: memorabilia from shared interests, souvenirs from vacations you've taken together, family mementos, or location-themed items.

2. Same color, different shapes. Not all of your centerpieces have to be exactly the same. Try similarly-colored bottles or vases of different sizes and shapes or flowers in the same color family but different heights.

3. Natural accents. Even if you use some flowers, try throwing in some unique natural touches. If it's a winter wedding, use pinecones and pretty reaching branches. If it's a beach wedding, try seashells, sea glass, starfish, and sand dollars. Or add in unusual plants like succulents, fresh herbs, or even cacti!

4. Potted plants. For a more rustic, natural look, use potted plants instead of cut flowers. Send them home with your guests, so they can plant them in their own yards as a lasting reminder of your wedding.

Not only will interesting centerpieces add mood and excitement to your decor, but they give you one more way to express who you are as a couple. And isn't that truly the centerpiece of your wedding day?

Wednesday, March 3, 2010

Dreaming of Color Schemes

Today we have a special guest article from one of our favorite invitation and stationery designers, Kelly Schwartz of Custom Invitations by Kelly. Visit her at http://www.custominvitationsbykelly.blogspot.com/ or give her a call at (732) 406-0758 for more information.

Kelly says:

"While working with some of my clients for 2010 Bridal season, I have noticed a few trends. Pink, in all shades from pastel, to magenta, and coral have been a common thread in many of the invitations I've been working on. The second color trend I've noticed this season is blue. And while I am not quite ready to share with you what I am currently working on, I would love to share with you one of my favorite "blue" weddings from this past year, Christina and Patrick.



"Christina and Patrick's wedding took place in September at the Dolce, Basking Ridge. The couple wanted to incorporate elements that reflected their personalities, clean, modern, and elegant. I created a custom invitation set, save the date cards, and a creative reception booklet placed at each setting. While, this set was simple, it definitely had an impact and is one of my personal favorites from 2009.

"For anyone who is not sure what color scheme to chose for their upcoming wedding or event, blue is a great choice, whether you chose cobalt, teal, navy, baby, or sapphire blue works for almost every season! Pair it with black like Christina and Patrick, for a modern twist.

"Other favorite blue combinations:
Navy Blue paired with Bright Pink
Sapphire Blue paired with Teal
Spa Blue paired with Chocolate Brown
Cobalt Blue paired with Yellow and Lime"

Thanks, Kelly! Be sure to visit her website or write her at kellyschwartz526@gmail.com for an appointment or samples.