Introducing our new blog!

We have moved!  Please continue to visit us at our newly updated website and blog...http://www.melizabethevents.com/blog.

Hope to see you there!

Fabulous Find: Wedding Dress Paintings

I am an avid follower of Manolo for the Brides and their wonderful ideas.  That is where I found today's gem:  wedding dress paintings.

Everyone has different advice on what to do with your wedding dress after the BIG DAY.  It is often the most expensive piece of clothing you will ever own, particularly for one that you will never wear again.  Save it. Keep it for your children. Sell it. Donate it.  What should you do?

Now, there's a new, gorgeous option!  For $250 - $350, artist Jessica Mandela will create a beautiful painting of your dress and even your bridesmaid's dresses!  You can even spring for a stunning oil painting!

This is a unique way to make sure your gorgeous dress lives on forever.  If you ask me, I'd get one even if I kept my dress!

Wedding Planning: Meghan's Top 5 Tips

1. Create a "Look"
One of the best ways to create a "look" is to focus on the season of your event. You don't have to go overboard here, but it is an excellent way to tie everything together from menu to décor to personal style. It's also a great way to stay on top of the budget. Using items that are in season are often more cost effective. 

2. Specialize the Menu
Meghan has extensive experience with menu development. We will talk with your caterer to create the perfect menu for your special event. We always recommend finding a few ways to incorporate some personal favorites into the menu. For example, if you got engaged in Italy it would be fun to serve an Italian inspired course with dinner or some fun Italian mini sweets.

3. Just Try It On!
My biggest suggestion with fashion is to try on everything! Many brides end up selecting a gown they never thought would look good on them or be their style. Have an open mind. Another great idea, take some time to be alone with the dress on. It is very easy to allow yourself to get swayed by your friend's/mother's opinion. Make sure YOU love the dress.

4.  Personalize that Style
If you stay true to your personal style, your event will be a huge success. Your guests have attended many weddings and events over the years and personal style is the best way for guests to remember your wedding. The goal is for your guests to walk into your reception and instantly think of the two of you!  You want every single detail to reflect you as a couple.

5. Have Fun!
This is a party after all. Meghan and her team will help you feel comfortable with every single aspect of the event, and leave you to enjoy yourself. If you find yourself trying to micro-manage the little stuff, take a deep breath and remember M. Elizabeth Events has it covered.

Amanda + David Engagement

Amanda and David are getting married on July 10.  Amanda and David met while they were both students at Samford University, so it was only fitting to schedule their ceremony at beautiful Reid Chapel on Samford's campus.  Their reception will be held under the stars high atop Red Mountain at the historical Vulcan Park and Museum.  Photographer Jim Little captured these pictures of Amanda and David on Morris Avenue in late April.  Check back with us this summer for a complete recap and more pictures from Jim Little Photography.

Fabulous Find: Vintage Car Decorating Kit

Do you have a sweet getaway car booked for your wedding day?  Do you think toilet paper and aluminum cans are one of those traditions that should have died in your parents' generation?  Are you fond of crafts?  If you answered "yes" to any of those questions (or if you just like precious details!), check out these fabulous car decorating kits from A Bride's Ride.

Choose your flower color garland and a banner, and CUTE white cans with belly bands are included!  Custom requests are welcome, too!  Check out some of their samples below!

They're a steal for only $47!  We just ordered them for an upcoming wedding and are anxiously awaiting their arrival!  Go ahead...do something different!

Happy Friday and Happy Planning!

Kim + Andrew Engagement

Kim and Andrew are getting married on May 22 in Gadsden, Alabama.  Kim and Andrew had originally planned on getting married at the beach, but instead decided on something a little closer to home.  Kim and Andrew will be getting married surrounded by water, on one of the beautiful greens at Silver Lakes Golf Course in Gadsden, Alabama.  Following the sunset ceremony, guests will head over to Gadsden Country Club to begin what will be an unforgettable evening.  Pensacola based photographer, Meg Baisden, took these engagement photos of the couple.  Check back with us in a few weeks for more pictures and a full recap!

Wedding Recap: Mary Ann + Hamilton

Mary Ann and Hamilton were married on February 6, 2010 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church.  Husband and wife team, Philip and Nancy Dupree with Philip Dupree Photography did an excellent job capturing a truly lovely day.  Not only are their images bright and crisp, but they are incredibly fun to work with.  All the flowers and decor were done by Carol Sullivan at Lagniappe Designs in Crestline. 

 

Immediately following the ceremony, Rare Transportation picked up the entire bridal party in a white, 25 passenger bus and whisked them away to Old Overton Country Club, where they were able to enjoy a quiet dinner before guests arrived.

The beautiful (and quite delicious) cakes were made by Julie Hendricks at Sweet Magnolia.  Personal touches were tucked in throughout the evening.  The silver candelabra on the bride's table was a prize she won while competing in the Junior Miss Scholarship Program.  The groom, an avid fisherman, even had a chocolate reel on the top of his cake.

After dancing for hours, guests were surprised with a specialty cocktail, the "Velvet Hammer". The Velvet Hammer has special meaning to the bride's family as it is often served in their home.  It had also been served at the bride's older sister's weddings. 

The bride and groom left the reception in a stunning black limousine provided by The Wynfrey Hotel.  After a wonderful honeymoon at the Excellence Playa Mujeres in Mexico, the bride and groom returned to their new home in Atlanta.  Congratulations Mary Ann and Hamilton!

Wedding Planning: First Things First

Congratulations! You're engaged and now you need to begin this glorious adventure called wedding planning.  Let the good times roll!  So, what should you do now?  Where should you begin?  First, enjoy this glorious moment.  Take some time to relish in the spectacular feeling of knowing that you are cherished by the love of your life.  Relive those precious (or funny) words that made you say "Yes".  You're engaged!!  When you are ready to begin, I recommend that you start with First Things First.

Step One:  Share the good news!  It's fine to keep things private for a little while, but eventually you will want to spread the word on your upcoming nuptials.  Always tell your parents and immediate family first.  Then, you can let your friends, neighbors, even the local cashier in on the big news.  Phone calls and emails are appropriate for those first few days.  But you can find some fun and creative or more formal ways to announce your engagement to the masses.  Send a letter, print an engagement announcement, or even throw a party. We'll explore the in's and out's of engagement parties later this week.  So check back in a few days!

Step Two: Set the Date.  This is very important and will influence just about every other decision you make in your planning.  For some, the selection of a date is quick and painless.  For others, it can be a little more complicated and may take some time.  You'll probably be plagued with family and friends wanting to know when the big day will happen.  It's o.k. to deliberate on this one.  You can simply say "We're looking at the calendar and will let you know soon."  Just know that you need to have a wedding date before you can begin booking the venue and vendors.  You will save a lot of time by screening vendors based on availability and you can't do that without a firm wedding date.  Also, your wedding date will determine the pace of your planning.  Obviously, you need to work faster if you are saying "I Do" in six months versus 12 months.

Step Three:  Start Dreaming.  Even if you have been dreaming of your wedding day since you were a little girl, you should take some time to be inspired.  Consider all of the style options that are out there today.  You may even come up with a blend of styles that is completely unique to you and your fiance.  Stock up on some beautiful wedding magazines, peruse the hundreds of wedding websites that are available and even spend a day at your local bridal show.  Remember, there are literally hundreds of options out there. Don't be overwhelmed by the possibilities, just see what stands out and take your cues from those things that you think are simply amazing.

Finally, hire a planner.  (Did you really think I was going to skip over this one?)  Talk to other new brides and you'll hear one of the following: "I couldn't have done it without my planner," or "I should have hired  a planner, at least for day-of coordinating".  I know that for many, the topic of budget and how much a planner costs is a big influence in this decision.  Here's the simple truth.  A planner is worth every penny.  And, a good planner will help you come up with a scope of services that will fit your budget and meet your needs.  Your planner deserves her fee, because she will put in an average of 70-90 hours on your wedding alone.  And, her expertise will save you from making poor decisions, save you time on researching vendors, and will put a finishing touch on all your details that will make your day truly shine.  All of this means greater peace of mind for you.  I could go on and on, so we'll visit this topic again soon.  For now, I recommend that you keep an open mind and at least meet with a few planners to see what they have to offer.  The earlier you do this in your planning process, the better.

I'll be sharing more insight on your planning journey over the next couple of weeks.  There are some major milestones in this process and we'll give each one it's proper consideration in upcoming posts.  For now, enjoy yourself!  And remember, take it one step at a time.  Happy planning!

Wedding Recap: Mandy + Brandon

Mandy and Brandon were married on March 27, 2010, and I had a blast working with this Baltimore couple.  The fact that they lived 1000 miles away from Birmingham proved to be a bit challenging at times, but it all came together on wedding day!  The outdoor ceremony and reception took place at The Sonnet House.  David Shirk with Unplugged Photography did a beautiful job with the photography.  I am always totally impressed with his work.  Main Street Productions was on site the entire day to capture every detail and expression.  If you missed Mandy and Brandon's video clip, scroll down a few posts or go to Main Street's blog to watch!

Mandy chose a bright and fun spring palette.  The florals were by Kathy Miller with Kathy Miller Floral Design.  The bouquets included orange and pink gerber daises.  The food was absolutely delicious!  Cela and her staff at Imperial Catering did a wonderful job with the menu and services.  

The two cakes were done by the fantastic Barbara Sullivan of Barb's Cakes.  The groom's cake was unbelievably cool.  Brandon is a University of Georgia fan and Barb was able to tie in his passion for Bulldog football into the cake.

DJ and lighting services were provided by Carlos Olatera of Total Entertainment and he kept the party rocking until the very end!  As guests were leaving, they each grabbed some delicious pralines, made by the bride's mother.

Congratulations Mandy and Brandon!

Never Get Your Heels Stuck in Grass Again!

My solution to walking in the grass with heels has always been to walk on your tip toes until I came across SoleMates. This might be the best invention ever! It is a MIRACLE for all those ladies who want to show off their trendy heels.

Discreet and easy to use, the SoleMates High Heeler™ attaches easily to most stiletto and kitten heels. By increasing the surface area on the base of the heel, it reduces the pressure on this area and prevents the heel from sinking into grass or falling into cracks!

The patented design of the SoleMates High Heeler™ is mechanically engineered to fit snugly on most heels and yet the flexible material grips securely without damaging the heel or compromising the aesthetics of the shoe.

Tipping Guidelines for Weddings

"Who do I tip after the wedding?"  So many of my clients ask me this question and it's always a tough one to answer.  I feel there are no hard and fast rules that you have to stick by, but there are some vendors for which NOT tipping can seem a bit rude.  And for the rest of the vendors out there, it sure is appreciated!

Tipping is never mandatory, but there are some folks that you should really plan on tipping, and the amount should be dependent upon the level of service.  For catering, 20% is standard, so much so that they usually just include it in the bill as a mandatory service charge.  Same goes for limousine companies, most just add that 10-20% right onto your final bill.

For valet-parking attendants (($1-$2 per car), restroom, or coatroom attendants ($1-$2 per guest), and bartenders (10% of final bill split among them) arrange to tip them in advance so that your guests aren't obligated to during the festivities.  For vendors that work for a larger company (and don't own it) such as hair-stylists, make-up artists, DJ's, band members, and ceremony musicians, it is customary to tip 10-15% (divided up amongst multiple band members or ceremony musicians).

From there it gets a little sticky.  Many websites and wedding books out there tell you that if any of your vendors own their own business, you don't have to tip them.  And yes, this is true, you don't HAVE to, however I often explain to couples that it is the nice thing to do if the vendor was a pleasure to work with, did a great job, and especially if they went above and beyond their service.

Wedding vendors work in this industry because we love it.    I know brides and grooms think the cost of a wedding is exorbitant, but vendors charge what they do to keep their businesses afloat, and to keep meals on the table.  Giving a tip, or even a nice gift, is truly appreciated.  And if, for whatever reason, you do decide to forgo a tip, at least write a nice thank you note!!  It's also a nice gesture to take the time to write a referral or review on a website such as WeddingWire.  It really does mean a lot to vendors.  I am occasionally appalled when I see a vendor working their tail off to please a demanding couple, and don't even receive a thank-you at the end of the day.  That's just poor manners.

Anyway...moving on.  Here are some guidelines for tipping those that you don't HAVE to, but really should consider if they did a wonderful job.

- Catering Manager or Venue Coordinator: $100 - $200 or a personal gift
- Chef: $50 - $100
- Officiant: $100 - $500
- DJ (if they own their own company): 10% of the fee
- Photographer/Videographer: $100 - $200 or a personal gift
- Wedding Planner/Coordinator: 15% of the fee, or a personal gift

How should you deliver the tips?  Always tip in cash since you may not know the full name of everyone you are giving a tip to.  The week before the wedding, put the amount you expect to tip in labeled envelopes but don't seal them.  Towards the end of the night, seal the envelopes, and hand them to your wedding coordinator to distribute.

There you have it!  So again, tipping is never mandatory and you are not obligated to tip your wedding vendors, but it is kind and thoughtful after everything they do for you.  And at the very least...send a thank you note!

Rosewood Hall Bridal Open House

Vendor Spotlight - Main Street Productions

Angela Deaver, owner of Main Street Productions, and I have run into each other at so many wedding industry networks events over the past year that I had always hoped to get to know her and her husband, John, better.  Finally, we had the chance to work two events (back to back, I might add!) together and it was so wonderful to learn so much more about their team.  Main Street Productions specializes in high quality and compelling wedding videography and truly has beautiful work.  One of my favorite things about John and Angela is that they truly care for each and every one of their brides!  Here are some Q&A!

Why did you choose to work in weddings/events? How did you get started?
John and I met at the University of Montevallo where he was a Mass Communication major and I was in Marketing. Once he started his career teaching Broadcasting at Spain Park High School, people started asking him to film this wedding or that sporting event and it continued. At that same time, I joked with my good friend and current marketing manager, Kerri that we should go into business with each other in the wedding field. Little did we know that we would be working together now! In 2005 we were starting to get a little busy, so we took a BIG leap of faith and I quit my job. It was tough when we were growing like crazy and John was still teaching. But finally in 2009, he was able to "retire" from the state and we couldn't be happier!

How would you describe your style/product?
People look at our work and say "wow, it's like a movie." We approach a wedding event with the goal of creating a cinematic film for the bride and groom that captures the emotion of the event. Just as a Hollywood filmmaker's job is to evoke an emotional response from his audience, we as wedding filmmakers try to make the bride and groom feel like they did on one of the most important days of their lives. A close up on the groom's face as his bride takes her first steps down the aisle, a close up on the bride's mother during the first dance, a kiss stolen when the bride and groom are sure no one is looking, these are moments we use to evoke powerful memories.

What separates you from other Birmingham area vendors?
We work very, very hard to get it right. We spend between 40 and 80 hours in the editing process. We practice with new tools and techniques at home in our off time. We participate in contiuing education programs. We don't rely on special effects or a lot of flashy editing. We have very high standards for ourselves and shaky camerawork and poor audio quality is something you won't see in our final product.

What would you be doing if you didn't work in weddings?
For years I worked as an event coordinator for a local company. I enjoyed it, but when I became full time with Main Street Productions, I really felt like THIS is what I am supposed to do with my life. It is cheesy, but we get to be with people on the best day of their lives. We get to capture them when they feel most beautiful. It is a great job!


Favorite TV show and why?
Although I (Angela) see a lot of Dora, Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, and Curious George, I tend to like shows with less counting! Ha! John likes TV with great stories. It doesn't matter if it is a drama or sci-fi, it needs to have a great story. It needs to be well-done and innovative.


What advice would you give to brides on the wedding planning process in general?
First of all, picking professionals for your wedding is of the utmost importance. You want to work with vendors that have your best interests in mind. Meet with them before you hire - make sure that you click. After all, you will be spending a lot of time with that person on your wedding day (and before). We are big fans of wedding planners! They make our job easier and they day flows so much better. The money you spend on a professional wedding planner will ensure that the rest of the money you spend, will go further. They know who to call, who to trust, and who will do the best job for you.

What advice would you give to brides in choosing a videographer?
Pick someone who is passionate about what they do. There is a story in every wedding: It's emotional, it's exciting, it is joyful and powerful. You are going to cry, and laugh, and feel sick to your stomach, and someone is going to fall down, or get cake on themselves, or the ring bearers are going to start a pillow fight during the ceremony (happened at our wedding).

Here are some basic guidelines for choosing a videographer for your wedding: Hire someone who is interested in your story, has been in business for a long time, who constantly is working to improve their own work, and who you feel comfortable with. Do not choose a videographer who's prices are too good to be true, who doesn't meet with clients prior to the wedding, who tries to sell you on their superior equipment, or who's best work is from three years ago.

The right videographer will bring your story to life in a way you and your new family will treasure forever. Every time you see it you will get emotional, you will be excited, you will feel the joy and it will be powerful.

Finally I would like to stress the importance of having a professional wedding video.  Probably about 70% of our brides book us 9 - 12 months out, with the other 30% booking at 3 - 6 months out.  We get numerous calls for last minute weddings when the bride just decided that she HAD to have video of her wedding.  Sometimes we can help these brides, but most of the time, we can't.  It is heartbreaking.

If you are one of these brides that don't think that you will watch your wedding video, then you picked the wrong videographer (direct quote from one of our grooms).  Yes, the video allows grandparents and/or family members that can't come to the wedding a chance to see it, but it is so much more than that!  We capture what happens between the photos.  Imagine having a video of your parents or grandparents on their wedding day.  We actually had a bride last summer that unexpectedly lost her father just weeks after her wedding.  The footage that we had of she and her dad dancing suddenly meant so much more to her.  It was priceless.

Check out these two sample teaser videos of recent M. Elizabeth brides.  Thank you John and Angela for capturing such special moments for these two couples.

Mandy & Brandon: The Sonnet House from Main Street Productions on Vimeo.

Marquita & Marcus's sneak peak! from Main Street Productions on Vimeo.

To see more from Main Street Productions, visit their website or blog.  If you are a Birmingham vendor and would like to be featured on the M. Elizabeth Events blog, shoot me an email!

Bromberg's Diamond Dash Recap

Last Saturday morning, Jonathon (the boyfriend) and I participated in the first ever Bromberg's Diamond Dash in downtown Birmingham.  The dash was a highly competitive scavenger hunt/puzzle solving game on the streets of Birmingham with all clues and answers sent and received via text message.

We arrived at Linn Park at 11 am to see a crowd much larger than I anticipated, but when the grand prize is a $15,000 Ritani diamond ring, why would I expect a light turnout?  The sun was shining brightly and we were working up a sweat just waiting in the registration line.

After Jim Rooney with Unique Sounds officially kicked off the event, the first text messages were sent to everyone's cell phones simultaneously.  What a sound...600 cell phones all going off at the same time with the first clue.

The first clue sent via text message lead us to a location in Birmingham.  Once we texted back the name of the location, you would receive a text message confirming whether or not you had given the correct answer.  If you were correct, you received a second text which would involve answering a question about that location to confirm you were actually there.  For example...here are a few samples text messages about one location:

Q: "This hotel on 20th Street North is a new version of the historic original that existed fro 1914 to 1972.  Head to its location and send back its name."


A: "The Tutwiler"


Q: "You got it! Take a look at the rather royal looking crest that is the hotel's logo and send back the words you will find there."


Looking back through our texts, here are some of the stops we made over the 2.5 hour hunt:

Start - Linn Park

Jefferson County Library Annex

Boutwell Auditorium

Birmingham Museum of Art

Jefferson County Courthouse

Bromberg's Jewelers

First Presbyterian Church

Alabama Theatre

Cathedral of St. Paul's

The Birmingham News

Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

First Presbyterian Church

Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame

The Birmingham News

16th Street Baptist Church

Wachovia Towers

McWane Center

Harbert Plaza

City Federal

As you can see, we zig-zagged all over the downtown area riding a grand total of 12 miles.  After two and a half hours, we ended up with 335 points.  We were extremely proud of ourselves, regardless of the outcome.  Unfortunately, the grand prize winners had 401 points and were awarded the diamond ring at the after party at Rogue Tavern.  We did not finish in the top 6, but I have a sneaking suspicion that we ended up in the top 20.

All in all, we had an absolute blast.  It was great to see hundreds of people in blue t-shirts running, biking, and rollerblading all over downtown Birmingham on a beautiful Saturday morning.  A big thank you to Arden photography for snapping these great action shots at the event!

Vendor Spotlight - Vince Gray & Flowerstems

Gorgeous centerpieces, distinctive bouquets, and wildly unique touches...you name it and Vince Gray can bring your dream wedding to life.  I love talking to Vince and hearing him describe how he sees a wedding or event come to life.  I'm not exactly sure where he gets his amazingly creative ideas, but there is one thing we're certain about - when to comes to floral design, Vince and his team at Flower Stems will come up with a slew of fun and classy ideas to make your big day completely one of a kind.

Why did you choose to work in weddings/events? How did you get started?

I have always had a creative side and have enjoyed the arts my entire life. I started in the floral business over 17 years ago by opening Homewood Florist on the recommendation of a friend, who believed it would be a good creative outlet for me to explore. It turns out they were right! I opened a second florist in Helena years later when I had a home in the area. I moved back home to Homewood, sold the Helena business, outgrew the Homewood store and settled into the Loft at Flower Stems downtown, which we have been in for 4 years. We have over 10,000 sq. ft. of space, which works out great because we are able to work out of the downstairs portion and rent out the upstairs loft for weddings, rehearsal dinners, receptions and events/parties. Although many of our events are outside of the loft, we do enjoy holding parties here. We have a true NYC loft atmosphere with a large crystal chandelier, modular white Italian leather furniture and a very open floor plan. Brides love the character provided by the space. We also are very accommodating, allowing clients to use any outside vendors of choice and the freedom of bringing in their own alcoholic beverages. I personally meet with each bride and design each wedding that Flower Stems coordinates. I have a passion for my business and enjoy being ethical in helping brides with their individual budgets. I am always striving to put a different creative element into every wedding and do not like to be repetitive in my designs. 

How would you describe your style/product?
Our inventive living works of art utilize seasonal and regional elements in a modern way. Here at Flower Stems, we set the trends and do not follow or copy works from other events. Each wedding should be a reflection of the individual bride's style, vision and taste. If it is a free choice, we have a highly unique, modern and elegant style that is always elegant with a twist.

What separates you from other Birmingham area vendors?
Just as each couple has a different story and each bride is distinctively special, we never design the same event twice. We are a full service event design company and coordinate/design everything from wedding flowers, linens, lighting, rentals, centerpieces, and other detailed elements of décor. Our staff is extremely skilled in working with design elements such as color, texture, shapes, furnishings, food, lighting, and even music to create individual and unique experiences. By setting the tone and mood, we can ensure your wedding will be both memorable and breathtaking. First, a consultation appointment is scheduled in which we will get to know your individual couple personality-the dreams, ideas, passions, styles and visions you both share for this special day. We are skilled listeners, and we will stop at nothing to bring your vision to life. We have an unsurpassed passion for our profession and value our unique creativity and ability to work within any budget. I personally designs each event for our clients and has been in business for over 17 years.

What would you be doing if you didn't work in weddings?
If I was not involved in the wedding business, I would probably be involved in some full time line of missionary work with my church, The Church of The Highlands. I am very passionate about helping the less fortunate and spreading the good news of my savior, Jesus Christ. As a new Christian myself, it is very important to me to show love to others and reach out to those who are unable to help themselves. I am not necessarily adamant about being a "pushy" religious individual, but simply care to love on those who have not ever felt wanted or needed. I try to live my life in a daily way which puts others first and acknowledges there is no problem too large or small to bring to God. We never know what another person is going through during their daily struggles and I strive not to judge others or become quick to anger. I am involved with The Dream Center ministry and would more than likely embark on some full time outreach service. However, through my business I am blessed with the opportunity to bring flowers each Thursday to the people we outreach to and the appreciation and gratitude for that small act of kindness is truly a blessing for me to receive.

Favorite TV show and why?
I really don't have much time for television and probably am the only person who has yet to invest in TiVo or a DVR system. I enjoy spending time with my 4 yr. old son Walker any free time I have. He LOVES to come to Flower Stems to help work and is already becoming such a wonderful little man in so many ways! We go to the park, the zoo, ijump, but mostly just enjoy playing at home and jumping on the trampoline with the neighbors, making art, and wrestling with each other. He has just started soccer and karate. He is the love of my life and is so creative and brilliant! But, the television channels I frequently watch in my alone down time are the Discovery Channel, the History Channel and Nat-Geo.

What advice would you give to brides in choosing a florist?
Just as each couple has a different story and each bride is distinctively special, we never design the same event twice. Our design team will create a cohesive style that translates throughout your entire wedding. Each bride needs to find a florist who can translate and design their style and vision for their specific day. Although many florists have signature styles, we recommend a bride find a florist who can go beyond the scope of their own style and really reach the understanding and vision of the couple. Also, personality compatibility is a key aspect of the decision process.

What advice would you give to brides on the wedding planning process in general?
Put together a team of trusted vendors which you enjoy, can relate to and always maintain a line of communication to greatly reduce your stress level. This is a guarantee to staying organized and on task. The wedding planner is the much needed "head coach," of your vendor "playlist" and will ensure no little detail is overlooked on your special day!

Whether you're going for something totally traditional, uber modern, country chic, beach babe, or some fabulous twist in between, you can count on Vince Gray to design an unforgettable look for your soiree. Call Flower Stems today at 205.835.2003 to schedule your appointment.  You can also go visit their beautiful Loft at 213 Richard Arrington Jr. Boulevard South in downtown Birmingham.