Fall Frenzy 2010: Wedding Tree

So often I'm asked "what can I use for a guestbook other than the boring ol' book that I'll never look at again after I'm married?"

I came upon this adorable fall-inspired "guestbook" idea, created by lovliday on Etsy.com, a few months ago and knew immediately that I wanted to use it for our Fall Frenzy 2010 blog series.

Instead of having your guests just sign-in, give them a little more to play with. Like placing their thumb-print "leaf "on your Wedding Tree - forever leaving their place in the biggest day of your life.

"Having your guest leave their thumbprint and signature at your wedding day will leave you with a beautiful piece of artwork to display. Instead of storing a traditional book, which you may never look at, you can frame this finished piece and enjoy it for many years," explains lovliday.

This 18" x 24" printed poster (with your names and wedding date) costs $50 to create and $5 to ship if you live in the United States. Also included is a 4"x6" instructional card to display to guests as well as red and orange ink pads. To give it more color, you could always purchase yellow and/or green ink pads at your local craft store.

Be sure to check lovliday's Etsy shop for a Wedding Tree that is appropriate for your guest count - she gives a number of options including smaller/larger tree sizes and color moderations. There are even variations of the tress for you brides planning winter, spring and summer weddings.

I hope you can use this to bring a new and creative way of including your guests in being a part of your special day. After raking all the beautiful falling leaves in my yard today, I thought this idea was perfect to share first in our Fall Frenzy 2010 blog series. Enjoy!!

New Blog Series - Fall Frenzy 2010

Wednesday officially marked the first day of fall 2010. Fall is by far my favorite season: comfortable weather, jeans and sweatshirts, the beautiful changing leaves, colorful scenery and (in being true to my OH-IO) football!

But not only is it a relaxing time of year, it's a perfect time for getting married. Mother nature provides so much in the fall: photos full of natural color, outdoor ceremonies in the falling leaves, weather that won't leave your guests sweating, and (for you DIY Brides) FREE decorations such as pumpkins, acorns, and pinecones.

Janelle Marie Events is SO excited to present our fall-inspired blog series: Fall Frenzy 2010. Over the next 10 weeks, I will be sharing a ton of tips, tricks (and treats) and ideas that I hope you can use to plan your fall wedding or pass on to a friend in need.

We'll be covering topics such as:

• DIY projects and how-to's for fall-themed weddings
• How to "handle" your wedding date on football Saturdays
• What flowers bloom in the fall
• Popular themes and colors for fall weddings

Be sure to subscribe to our blog (to the left) and follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook for updates on this great new series - you won't want to miss one post!

On behalf of Janelle Marie Events, I wish you all a Happy Fall!

Something I'm Liking to LOVE: Dr. Scholl's Rub Relief Stick

Please don't walk away from those strappy sandals or the cute pair of  flats you’re eyeing because you know they'll give you blisters and leave your feet uncomfortable for the night.

I LOVE my shoes but I'm also a HUGE fan of comfort. Not too long ago, I pulled a pair of sling-backs from my closet, that matched my outfit just right, and my first thought was "these are going to hurt!" Then I remembered that I had recently purchased a stick of Dr. Scholl's for Her Rub Relief at my local drugstore (costs about $10) - just because I wondered if it worked. What a perfect time to try it out!

NOT ONE BLISTER! And we're talking some serious walking...

This little tube of miracles has now made it into my Emergency Bridal Kit (and permanently onto my dresser shelf). Because I love it so much - I wanted to share it with all of you in hopes that you can still wear your expensive wedding or party shoes without having to pack another pair for Plan B! Enjoy...

Vendor Visit - Shannon Sano Photography

The most important thing to consider when hiring a wedding photographer is how comfortable you feel with her. I got the chance to have breakfast with wedding photographer, Shannon Sano last week and it was a BLAST! I love meeting new people that I can easily relate to and I recommend that anyone looking for an amazing photographer to shoot their wedding day should meet with Shannon Sano Photography.

Here's a taste of what we got to talk about...

Who are your favorite wedding couples to shoot?
We are always looking for opportunities to try new things, so I look forward to wedding shoots that have an unique element; not the same ideas over and over again. I most enjoy the clients that give us complete freedom to be creative and have total trust in what we can do. This is when we can do our best work. I also try to get to know the couple throughout their planning process so they feel completely comfortable with us on their wedding day which allows me to better understand what to look for when I’m taking their pictures.

Do you include engagement pictures with your wedding packages?
Every one of our wedding packages includes an engagement shoot with us. This type of shoot is one of my favorites to do because it is a great chance for us to get to know the couple and help them feel comfortable with us. I have really learned to love using modern posing techniques and since this type of shoot isn’t as time sensitive as the wedding day, we get to try different things and really get a sense of what the couple is like. Our engagement shoots are very relaxed and casual.

You recently started to shoot boudoir photos? What made you interested in this type of photography?

I saw boudoir as a upcoming trend and as another way to be creative with my photography. I loved the concept of giving average everyday women a glamorous model type experience. My boudoir sessions are actually a huge confidence boost for most women! So we launched Boudoir by Shannon Sano in January 2010.

Boudoir photography is SO sexy, how do you keep clients from feeling self-conscious?
Most people think they have to act sexy to have a successful boudoir shoot. In reality, the client and I are talking throughout the shoot. I bring in a make-up artist and while the client is getting her make-up done, it gives me time to make her comfortable and willing to open up. Then once the shoot starts, things just start to roll and the pictures come to life. Everything is kept very tasteful and classy and after the shoot, I airbrush everything to make it look perfect.

Where do you do the boudoir shoots?

We can take the boudoir shoot wherever the client would like. If the client would prefer, I’d be happy to come to their house or to another location that they have “borrowed” such as a friend's house. I also have personal relationships with local vendors that allow me to shoot in their business spaces. The possibilities are always up for discussion.

Thanks so much for sharing with me Shannon. I'm so looking forward to sharing some upcoming wedding time with you real soon! Everyone check out Shannon's website to learn a little more about Shannon Sano Photography - she'll be a great addition to your wedding vendor line-up.

Renae and Scot

Married June 12, 2010 in Newark, Ohio

What a beautiful wedding for such an amazing couple! I had a BLAST planning this grand event with Renae, Scot and their families and though it threatened to rain, it turned out to be a truly picture-perfect day. Renae was by far my most detailed bride. Not one aspect of the wedding went unplanned, even down to the greenery placed within guests' napkin rings. I can’t begin to describe how gorgeous everything turned out.

My favorite part of the day happened when rain clouds were hovering overhead as guests took their seats. Right as the processional began, a bright burst of sunshine came through almost like a spotlight to present the bridal party before Renae's grand entrance. It was heart-warming and timeless; giving Renae the bright blue sky she wanted on her wedding day. I feel very honored to have been a part of their special day... what an remarkable memory!

Wedding Coordinator: Janelle Marie Events

Ceremony: Enchanted Gardens

Officiant: Reverend John Harra

Dove Releasing Ceremony: Wings of White Doves

Reception: Longaberger Golf Club
Photographer: Adam Lowe Photography
Florist: Roots & Shoots
Cake Baker: Cecile Pletcher
DJ: Ken Justice
Transportation: Violet Limousine Service
Chair and Tent Rental: Main Events Party Rentals
Reception Entertainment: joyUNSPEAKABLE

Vendor Visit - Capital Club

This week, I sat down with Diana Holt, Event Sales Director for the Capital Club, to get better acquainted with what they had to offer our Janelle Marie Events clients. If you are looking for an intimate and soft ceremony or reception site, be sure to contact Diana at 614-228-0694 or by email to schedule a visit and tour. This beautiful space is located in the heart of downtown Columbus, nestled behind the Huntington Center (so you won’t see any signs from High Street - FYI). The Club sits on the same floor at the Doubletree Guest Suites Columbus… so you can imagine the deals you can get on Doubletree hotel accommodations with the Captial Club’s spectacular relationship. Just to give you a sneak-peak at what to expect from the Capital Club, I’d like to share with you my Q&A with Diana:

How many rooms do the Capital Club offer and how many guests can you accommodate? We have two rooms that we use for wedding ceremonies and receptions:

• President's Dining Room: (pictured above) accommodates up to 150 guests and can be used for both ceremonies and receptions, has crystal chandeliers and large windows facing the Columbus skyline with a marble dance floor and a walk-out terrace
• LeBistro Room: accommodates up to 80 guests, this is normally where ceremonies are held with a focal point on our fireplace and decorative mantel

We also have plenty of space throughout the Club for cocktail hours, portable bars, and food stations. Parking always seem to be an issue with downtown Columbus venues. How do you accommodate this for your guests? Wedding ceremonies and receptions occur in the evenings and weekends. Because we use the Huntington Center parking garage, parking is unlimited to all guests. We have options for our clients in how they would like to handle the cost, which is $3 per guest after 5 p.m. Guests may either pay upon leaving the parking garage or we will be happy to give all guests parking vouchers as they are depart from the facility. Do you book more than one wedding per night?

No, we only allow for one wedding to be booked per Friday and Saturday in our facility. This allows for us to give our complete and undivided attention to our couples and their guests.

The Capital Club is a private members-only facility. Does this mean only members can enjoy the venue? Won't it be extremely expensive?

Membership is not required to hold a wedding ceremony or reception at the Capital Club. We recently have begun to offer packages to our clients as a way to better meet their needs and the budgets of different couples. We offer both plated meals and buffets ranging in prices from $60 - 90 per guest. In addition to the selected menu, what else is included in the price?

• Complimentary use of our marble dance floor
• Complimentary cake cutting and serving
• Floor-length solid table linens and napkins in any color
• Complimentary use of our votive candles
• Placement of favors and place cards
• Discounted room rates at the Doubletree Guest Suites Columbus
• 5 hour bar and bartender service
• One hour welcome reception with a fruit and cheese display

Do you require clients to use your preferred vendors?

Besides the catering (which we provide and serve), all other vendors are welcome into our facility. Contracting with wedding vendors is to the clients' discretion. Should any of our couples need help in locating trustworthy vendors in the Columbus area, we would be happy to supply them with a list of those we've had positive experiences with in the past.

Everything sounds so great. How soon do you accept deposits and/or book reservations for wedding ceremonies and receptions?

We are now booking wedding events for 2011. We welcome any interested couples to visit our facility and to inquire on our availability. Please call me anytime at 614-228-0694 or contact me by email.

Thank you so much, Diana, for letting me visit and share this information with my clients and fellow wedding planners. Be sure to consider booking with the Capital Club - by the way, the food is DELICIOUS!!

Something I'm Liking to LOVE: ChaChaBella

How perfect are these for your bridesmaids? If your girlfriends are anything like mine, they're always on the lookout for a cute cocktail ring and ChaChaBella's Friendship Rings can be your gift that they actual WILL wear again.

I love these rings because they are so colorful and unique-looking. You can give matching rings that complement your wedding colors or even design a ring for each separate attendant. Maybe even get a ring for yourself that goes perfectly with the color of your dress... what an awesome way to add a little color!

Happy Birthday to US!

Janelle Marie Events turns ONE YEAR OLD!

WOW... what a year it's been and how time flies! We've had an amazing time this past year with all of the brides, grooms, families, and central Ohio vendors that we've had the privilege of meeting and working with. Thank you for your kind welcome into the Columbus area wedding industry and for letting us be a part of your special moments.

Personally I want to thank my family and friends for all of the support and kind words you've had for me - I couldn't do this without you. MUAH!

We're looking forward to the future and all that it brings. Hopefully you can come along for the ride as a client, colleague or new friend.

Be sure to subscribe to THE DAY Planner for new and exciting information and for our new line of blog series starting SOON! Don't forget to visit our website (http://www.janellemarieevents.com/) to learn more about what we do and how we can be a part of your special day.

Thank you again and Happy Planning!

Desi is ONE!

I just love Miss Desiree and she turned ONE yesterday, January 11th. I can't believe this little lady is already a year old - this past year has really flown by. Before I know it, her and Dylan are going to be walking to school together.

For Desi's first birthday, I tried my hand at cake-baking. Her mama, Melissa (our neighbor and a good friend of mine) said she really liked the colors pink and brown and that they loved reading her Eric Carle's The Very Lonely Firefly. So, I decided to take those ideas and make her a special birthday present.

To say the least - it was quite an experience! Especially when our electricity went out for 2 hours mid-process. I got it done though and it turned out "OK." Everyone at the party had a piece and the majority said it tasted good (and my Matt really liked it!). Des even got her own mini cake to tear up, but she was very polite and mess-free.

Happy Birthday Desiree!!!

P.S. There was an "A" in Birthday until Melissa tasted it... haha! I really can spell.

See Our Ad in Get Married

We have a new ad in the Spring 2010 issue of Get Married! We have copies of the magazine to give to our existing/potential clients. I really love the magazine's appeal to brides of all budgets - it's filled with new and fun ideas and they have a lot of cute things for sale in the online store. If anything it's a great tool for brides (and wedding coordinators) to look through, get inspired and have new ideas to play with. Let me know if you want a copy - it's my new favorite piece of reading!

Also see our ad on GetMarried.com!

It's Official

After months of educating myself on the formal wedding coordinating industry, I have finally completed enough points to earn the Association of Bridal Consultants designation of Consultant Member. YAAAHHH!

Emilee and John

The Wedding of Emilee Schell and John McLarnanJanuary 2, 2010 - Newark, Ohio

What a more beautiful way to start 2010 than to be a part of this amazing wedding celebration. Emilee and John have been friends of mine for years and it was an honor to be their wedding coordinator and to share their "big day" memories. I had such a fun time planning this wedding with Em and enjoyed every moment of seeing their dreams and ideas come to life. Beautiful doesn't begin to describe Emilee on her wedding day - what a picture perfect bride! Emilee and John had such a happy day and Janelle Marie Events was sure glad to be a part of it.
    

Ceremony: St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church
Reception: The John Gilbert Reese Center - OSU Newark
Wedding Coordinator: Janelle Marie Events
Photographer: Melee Photography
Florist: Pat Warthen
Cake: Mary Harrington
Caterer: The Grill on 21st Street
DJ: Tony Adams
Videography: AG Inc. Video Production

New Year, New Start

WELCOME TO 2010!

We are so thrilled to start 2010 with our new blog: THE DAY Planner!

Janelle Marie Events is looking forward to this year's full and busy calendar: time flies when you're having fun, right? Engagement season has been such an exciting time for our new business and soon the 2010 wedding season will be in full-swing. We can't wait to share a year's worth of unforgettable moments with the brides and grooms of central Ohio: a truly unique and special opportunity. What better way to spend our weekends than to do what we love (events, OF COURSE!) surrounded by smiles, happiness and never-ending love!
Don't waste another minute...contact us NOW about your upcoming wedding or event. Our calendar is filling up fast! Janelle Marie Events wants to be there on your special day, to see your enjoyment and to give you the reassurance that everything you've planned for is taken care of and in good hands.
Welcome to 2010! Here's wishing you a happy, prosperous and blessed New Year!