Holiday Etiquette featuring M. Elizabeth!

I'd like to give a big "Thank You" to Ashlyn Stallings, Contributing Writer for MyScoop, for including M. Elizabeth Weddings & Events in her newest article, Mind Your Ps and Qs or Santa Might Get You!  We are extremely honored to have been apart of this wonderful article. More importantly, we hope our helpful hints will help you leave a positive, lasting impression with your hosts at this year's Christmas parties!  Merry Christmas...and enjoy!

"During sixth grade cotillion, of few of us flirts were busy batting eyelashes Mr. Popular's direction. And sometimes, the family Southern Belle expert extrodinaire, (in my case, Great Aunt Joy) is tied up on the "oh-tha liiine." During the holidays, a million etiquette questions are dancing like sugar plums in our heads. Meghan Cease, etiquette expert of M. Elizabeth Weddings and Events, tackles our every inquiry..."

Click here to read the entire article on MyScoop.

How to Be A Gracious Holiday Guest

It's that time! Holiday party season is here and we wanted to share some tips on how to be a gracious holiday party guest!

• Bring a hostess gift that's easy to open or use at the party.  While flowers are always sweet, don't present them to your host/hostess unless they are already in a vase.  While flowers are such a nice gesture, the last thing your host wants is to have to scramble to find a vase amidst a bustling party. This Christmas, a poinsettia that is already potted is a wonderful idea.

• Bottles of wine or champagne are always a great gift.  You can always opt for less expensive sparkling beverages such as cava (from Spain) or prosecco (from Italy).  You can find these items in your local grocery store for about $10 a bottle, and they are delicious!  Of course, cookies and other party food are also great items to bring to a party, because the host can display the goods immediately.

• Most hosts and hostesses know that you are making a stop in between other holiday parties, but don't rush out the door!  Stay and mingle, visit with the hosts, and enjoy the food and drink they put so much effort into.  After all, the holidays are about good company, friends, and family.

Planning Ahead

"Whether you're mailing printed invitations or inviting guests by phone, timing is key.  Send an invitation too late and the gust may already be booked; send it too early and it may be misplaced or forgotten." ~ Peggy Post

This guideline will give you an idea of how to time invitations for different kinds of parties.

Alfred Angelo Store Opening

It's finally here!  The Alfred Angelo boutique has finally opened in Birmingham!  Located in the Cahaba Village Plaza on Highway 280, this wonderful designer, is not only affordable, but has beautiful designer gowns and bridal dresses for your big day!  They also have dresses to suit your bridesmaids, flower girls, and mother of the bride.  

Click below to read more about all that this new Birmingham boutique has to offer!

Our Beautiful Christmas Cards

Want to sneak a peak at our 2009 Christmas cards?  The fantastic Shannon Darnell at Fun Stuff created the design, and she did a beautiful job! I spent quite a few hours last week addressing and stuffing all 150 of them, but I am super excited that I got them finished and mailed in plenty of time for the holidays.  So, without further ado...this year's Christmas card!

If you still haven't ordered your Christmas cards yet and want something unique, contact Sheri Darnell or her daughter Shannon at Fun Stuff today!  I have known this sweet family since before their Vestavia Hills boutique opened over 10 years ago, and I highly recommend them!  Need something quick?  No problem...most of their invitation and card designs can be back to you the next day!  

Fun Stuff

3370 Morgan Drive

Birmingham, Alabama 35216

205.823.3688

Ooo La La!

The J. Crew Wedding Lookbook for Spring 2010 is finally here!  They have really outdone themselves this time with some beautiful bridal gowns and bridesmaid's dresses.  None of the dresses pictured are available, but they can be pre-ordered by calling one of J. Crew's Wedding Specialists.