I was just tickled when I saw a familiar name come across by inbox recently wondering if I wouldn't mind sharing thoughts about wedding planning, some tips on how to keep it personal and some fun ways to use the wedding dress AFTER the wedding as a legacy or keepsake.
Jennifer Cura and I went to school together in New York a *few years ago. It's been great to follow our lives both professionally and personally, {we both had our oldest daughter complete their first year of college this year!} and I am so proud of what she has done with her company, Patchwork Bear.
The Patchwork bear was founded by Jennifer Cura in 2004 after combining her skill as an architect with her love of sewing to produce a product line of handmade products that are unique and personal as those who won them. Her line has grown from a simple baby quilt and matching bear to include: tooth fairy pillows, photo memory quilts, custom bears and full nursery design.
I mean if my virtual best friends Jessica Alba and Jennifer Garner are fans ... *wink!
Now is the time for all of my most recent Spring Brides to take advantage of her June special so you can fashion your gown into a legacy!
June is one of the most popular months to get married so this month we are highlighting weddings and our wedding dress quilts and bears. Recently we sat down with one of our favorite wedding planners, Lisa Stoner of E Events by Lisa Stoner and asked her to dish some advice for brides. Lisa, a native New Yorker, is a sought after event stylist who has been featured in BRIDES, The Knot and more.
1. What is the #1 piece of advice you give all brides?
To plan and design with a strong sense of self and family. The most memorable weddings are the authentic weddings. If it reflects the couple and the families’ style and sensibilities, it all makes great sense in the end. If it all properly tells your story, then you’ve made it perfect.
2. What is the first thing brides should tackle during the planning process?
At the risk of sounding cliché, I have to say hiring a wedding planner. Planners can leverage their network of resources to best serve the couple as well as narrow down the search for the perfect venue, photographer, floral designer, etc. Our knowledge and experience with all variables that go along with the planning and designing process can also garner concessions on our clients’ behalf.
3. What are some of your favorite ways to make a wedding unique?
As much as I love a tastefully designed wedding environment, I always emphasize the power of “gestures” during the wedding weekend. Floral centerpieces and great lighting will make any space look great, but it’s how you make your guests feel at the end of your wedding weekend or evening that makes a lasting impressions. It’s how you take care of them as a host and hostess at the biggest party of your life that counts!
4. What are some easy ways to personalize a wedding?
Is there a favorite recipe of Grandma’s that you love? Share it with your catering team to have it emulated. If your parents still have their toasting glasses from their wedding, consider using them. What is yours and your fiancé’s favorite indulgent food? Roll that out in the last hour of your reception when the party is really in full force! I’ve had pizza delivery on the dance floor and, as they say, the crowd went wild! *wink
5. Are there any details that brides often overlook?
Brides are busier than ever these days, advancing their careers and nurturing their relationship with their fiancé. I think that once they secure the essentials like the venue, photographer, floral, music, etc. they forget some fun and important details like lighting, wedding stationery [ceremony programs, escort cards, menu cards] a fun getaway, and though not the glamorous part of planning, but what does post-event look like? Who takes the gifts, cards, personal effects such as a cake server set, champagne glasses, any framed photos? Not to worry, we cover this with our clients 30 days before the wedding in our final details meeting!
Image Courtesy of Liga Photography
6. Do you have a favorite current wedding trend?
I try to be very careful and selective with the word “trend” when applying it to a wedding. Certainly, we all try to be “on trend” in various aspects of our lives such as fashion, home design and even with food. My approach to planning and design is the use of some modern trends to a classic wedding elements. That being said, I adore whimsical drink stirrers, charging stations, and the use of hashtags to “brand” your wedding. Social media is the new branding platform for personal, business and weddings!
7. What are some fun ways you can use your wedding dress after the big day?
Well, Patchwork Bear clearly creates these incredible keepsakes that make for the perfect legacy. I have also seen my couples use the dress for a bassinet lining, Christening dress, or fabric for a Chuppah for weddings that follow in the family. I have also displayed a mother of the bride’s dress on a classic dress form at a client’s wedding, along with accompanying photos on a nearby table. This had guests favorably talking!
Image Courtesy of KT Merry
Don’t forget to order your wedding dress quilt, bear or christening gown this month with code WEDDINGS to get 20% off. For more great tips from Lisa check out her blog here.
And for a fun flash back [to really see how far we've come!] have a looksey here. Please don't kill me Jen!
Albertus Magnus High School Graduation, circa 1987.
