Thoughts On The Right Client For You

While they can be done tastefully, balloons just aren't my thing. Unless it's for a kid's party.

A few years ago, in 2008, I had a consultation with a bride. Everything was going fairly well until she mentioned that she loved balloons and really wanted to find a way to include them in her wedding. My heart sunk and I had a pit in my stomach. Balloons may be for the wedding planner down the street, but I knew that I just don't do balloons. Unfortunately, I took the wedding anyways.

Fast forward to the actual wedding, and while I had been able to contribute my own style and spin to the event, there were still balloon bunches in clusters around the dance floor. The bride was happy, which is what counts, but the wedding isn't in my portfolio nor was it the best experience.

It just goes to show that you (we, me) have to do yourself (ourselves, myself) the favor of recognizing what's right and what's not. While I may have given the bride a spectacular wedding, looking back, I can guarantee that she would have had a better experience with someone else, and I would have enjoyed my work. The pit in my stomach never went away, and I can honestly say I dreaded the minutes leading up to the day. In the end it wasn't just the balloons..they were just the first sign that me and that bride weren't a good match in many areas. And what do I have to show for it? I never even asked the photographer for professional photos..I just wanted to move on.

Learning how to say no is one of the toughest lessons I'm still learning in business. But at least I've learned to recognize how good I feel when I'm working with the right client. I'd love to hear how you're dealing with that recognition, because I know it will always be a work in progress.

**As we get nearer to our new brand launch, this is a new series that I've wanted to start for a while. I believe sharing thoughts, experiences, good things, and bad things in business, especially in the wedding business is paramount for growth. I hope you'll chime in from time to time!**

Inspiring Photo No. 21

I have been drawn to designing with ribbon lately, and since we've become a retailer for Midori Ribbon out of Seattle, everything has just been oh so luxurious. I especially love this design framing a room. Just something a little bit different than the usual (while always lovely) fabric.


Via 100 Layer Cake

~Happy Monday!

Gift Card Winner

Thanks to our photographer friends and Miranda for participating in our little birthday giveaway.
Miranda, you get the choice of whether you'd like a Starbucks or iTunes giftcard. Send us your mailing address to blog@weddingsbysoiree.com and we'll get it over to you! And congrats on your upcoming wedding!

~Brandi

Dreaming of Cake

It's that time of year again..the day I get a little older. But I take it in stride because what other day of the year do I get to unabashedly indulge in sweet goodies? Today I'm in the mood for fabulous confections like these...







{Photos}: Top Row: Colorful Macaroons; White Textured Wedding Cake
Second Row: Spanish Hacienda Wedding Cakes
Third Row: Graphic, Contemporary Flower Cake; Chocolate Cake with Bolsa Wood Flowers

What are you craving today? I'll add some BBQ favorites like grilled hamburgers and sweet potato fries as we go into Memorial Weekend.

Don't forget to comment on our Wedding Wednesday post for a chance to win an iTunes or Starbucks gift card...winner will be picked randomly TODAY at Noon MST! Good Luck!


~Brandi

Wedding Wednesday | The First Look

The controversial First Look. You know, the moment where it's just you and your groom, and your photographer. But do you consider the First Look a time for before the ceremony, or as the doors swing open and your groom peeks at you for the first time as you sway down the aisle?

I find it's pretty close to 50/50 with our clients; half want the iconic tradition and build up of the moment, and the other half want to get through the pictures so they can relax and enjoy the day with their guests.


Mie and Keith see each other for the first time at their outdoor wedding last July; Photo by Anna Weaver & Josh Hayes

I think most photographers lean toward having a first look pre-ceremony, and as long as the moment is well thought out and sans bridal party or other onlookers in your space, it really can be such a beautiful capture. Jose Villa was recently interviewed by Southern Belle Calder Clark, and he is one photographer that does not like to stage the moment; he prefers that swinging door moment all the way:


JV: I’m not a big fan of the “first peek” or “first look”. It’s so set up, even if you try your best to make it look natural, not very organic. Yes of course the couple will show their genuine love for each other in their wedding attire when they see each other. I love when the couple sees each other as they walk down the aisle at their ceremony. Nothing can re-create the emotions from the couple and the family. You can’t get more genuine emotion and love than that. {Via Calder Clark Designs Blog}

I personally prefer the pre-ceremony first look. Almost every time, it tends to calm nerves, and I think the photos that come out of it are just so much more raw. As in, emotion, eyes only on each other, and I find the end result has a better job of capturing the couple up close and personal, vs. from far away as you come down the aisle. And, I'll say it- I figure you've spent the money on a fabulous cocktail hour, and I just like the bride and groom to be able to be a part of it.

Choosing to see each other before the wedding ceremony is such a personal preference, and there's really not a right answer....just a few thoughts to keep in mind.

1) Your timeline will be even tighter, and possibly longer: You'll have all the girls' photos, then all the guys' photos, then each of the families associated with either you or your groom. Then once the ceremony is over, plan on at least 45 minutes- 1 hour of additional married photos after.

2) You'll likely miss your cocktail hour: It's not a terrible thing, you'll just likely be introduced right into dinner or your highlight dances. But to me, the cocktail hour is often the most relaxed and has just the right level of imbibing and chatting (read: before the late-night partying begins..when you can barely talk to anyone because the music is upped about 20 decibels). Don't hate me because I'm married to the vision of the bride and groom, newly married, wine or champagne in hand, casually mingling with their guests.

No matter what you choose, there's a way to make it happen. Making sure your first look, however you do it, is special and well-documented is the most important thing, other than taking Jose Villa's advice on choosing your wedding planner, naturally. Couldn't have said it better myself!

Win It: 

* Tell us your thoughts/opinions on seeing each other before the ceremony and/or what you've chosen to do and why and enter to win a $15 Starbucks gift card OR iTunes gift card, on us. "Like" us on Facebook and leave us another comment telling us you did so for an additional entry. Winner will be chosen randomly and announced on Friday May 27th at Noon MST!


~Happy Wednesday!

Inspiring Photo No. 20 | Coming Up Wildflowers

I'm actually quite drawn to this newer trend of less formal, less arranged style. It just goes to show that even inexpensive varieties of flowers can still be stunning and make an impact.



Loosely arranged flowers in fall colors...



Or classic whites and creams. Either way is minimalistic yet stylish too.

What styles of arrangements do you like best?

{Photos}: All photos via Calder Clark Designs Blog

~Happy Monday!

Perfect Essentials

Shameless plug alert: We are having our company photo shoot for our new website this Sunday with the lovely Tana of Tana Photography. What's a girl to do when we're about to showcase the brand new look for Soiree? Go shopping, of course.

We are not a stuffy company; we pride ourselves on running a tight ship and getting firm when we need to, but Soiree is normally perceived as a lot of fun to be around. So the wardrobe for the photo shoot has been a little distressing as we need to look pulled together, yet not matchy matchy, and further yet we need to show our personalities too. Oh and stylish is key.

Enter Express to save the day for me:



I think I'll pair it with something like this:



Thoughts? I think it meshes with my personality- not too stuffy :)

Have a great weekend, and watch in the coming weeks as we unveil the new Soiree.....

~Brandi

Inspiring Photo No. 19 | The Simple Things

I love how the simplest things make such an impression.


via This Is Glamorous

I would love to see bottles of water with handwritten labels and sweet little finger foods all wrapped up in simple parchment paper.

For an easy DIY project, take clear water carafe bottles and paint a small square of chalkboard paint. This brand offers all sorts of colors rather than just black (thank you to our bride Ashley!); use a sharpie or permanent marker to write your sayings on the label.

Happy Monday!

Monogram Your Wedding | Luxury Monograms

I ran across these beauties over at the Elements of Style Blog, and I had to share. Monograms are still such a good way to add personality to your wedding or party, and if you're looking to maximize your bang for the buck, these pillows and accessories are the way to do it.







If you're having pillows as decor on benches or chairs at your wedding, having a few of these around will not only add a touch of detail, but you can re-use them in your home after the wedding too.

Luxury Monograms also offers other accessories, like these gorgeous tote bags- I see a gift for your bridesmaids and a bag for toting your wedding planning paraphenalia around too..





Made out of high quality canvas and featuring a classy embroidered monogram, these bags completely eschew the typical screen-printed and often tacky wedding bell bags we've all seen. Your girls will thank you!

Finally, Luxury Monograms also offers home accessories, such as placemats and monogrammed linen napkins, perfect for hostess, bridal shower and engagement party gifts too- there's nothing wrong in hinting to your family members! Take a peek at the whole line and styles of monograms here.



Have a great weekend!

~Brandi

Our Favorite Bridal Basics

You've got the dress, shoes, and picked out the perfect jewelry, but have you thought about what you'll be wearing under the gown? We've noticed that sometimes this is one of the last thoughts when it comes to completing your bridal look, but in reality, you should at least have the bra for your first fitting and alterations appointment.

The type of bra, bustier, or shaper you choose to wear on your wedding day can actually have a huge impact on the fit and feel of your dress. A long line bra will help to smooth over the bumps that may naturally show from your hoop skirt, a shaper will even out your curves in a form-fitting satin gown, and a well-fitted bustier will actually help keep a heavy, strapless gown up on you. The type of bra you choose will also affect how much your seamstress takes in on your bodice and whether or not you need some of the neckline (top of the dress) taken down a bit.

We've done a little research on bridal undergarments, and here are the top few that impressed us most:



We love this bustier from Felina because not only does it add a little lift, but it also is seamless. The essential boning is still there, but harsh lines won't show through your gown in your photos.

We also like this seamless bustier from Va Bien if you're wanting garters as well. 



This bridal shaper is great because not only is it strapless, the material is perfect for sliding a satin dress over, and the light side panels will let a girl breathe at the same time-phenomenal. The push up cups give it another plus too.



Once again a seamless variety, this strapless bra would be great for a summery gown, or one that just needs a little support. And at a price point of only $29.50, it can't be beat.



Finally, this ultimate plunge bra is the solution to low necklines or those gowns that are just a little difficult to hide your bra in. The construction of the bra also lends to creating a little cleavage, which for the smaller busted, is just what a girl wants. For a strapless, backless version, try this bra.

 All of these bras are at major department stores, like Macys and Nordstrom, so setting aside a day to have yourself fitted properly (most women on the street are not wearing the correct size at all- take it from a former bra consultant!). It really can make a noticeable difference on the way your dress fits you, and can prevent you from having to pull up or scrunch down your dress all evening long!

Happy Planning!

~Brandi

Inspiring Photo No. 18

I'm crazy over mint lately....




And what a pretty color for a nautical, summer wedding idea too. Would love to create a wall of sea shells and starfish as a backdrop..so simple and stunning!

Have a great Monday!

Behind The Scenes | Chanel Inspired Photo Shoot

 * Note: This post has been edited and updated with a tutorial of tossing cones at the bottom*

Our Chanel-Inspired photo shoot was featured pretty much 2 weeks ago, and in my excited state, I blindly promised you a behind-the-scenes look into creating the shoot, as well as a tutorial on the fabric tossing cones. And that was pretty much 2 weeks ago. So, first up: apologies and thank yous to everyone that is still around after not seeing the promised post several Wednesdays in a row. I told you about our biggest project in the works- our new brand- on Monday, and that coupled with a wedding, another style shoot, and a few other projects that took precedence, time slipped away from me.

So without further adieu, here are our how-to's and how it came to be. As I was looking back through the beautiful photos by Tana Photography, I realized it ironically looks like it could be a royal wedding. Gold and intricate filigree details? Pearls and baubles? Lush flowers...while not extremely over the top, it could pass as royalty. So let's just pretend I planned it this way :)

Step 1. Finding Inspiration

This style shoot actually started out as a tribute to Valentine's Day. The only things I knew when we started designing was that it needed to be romantic. Then one day, going through my jewelry stand I noticed this bauble diamond necklace. From there, the necklace was the basis for designing the rest of the shoot. Just proves inspiration can be from anywhere.




Step 2. Next came the design board. I always do a design + idea board for every wedding or event I design; it not only helps me focus on what I need to pull it all together, but it also helps vendors and clients understand the vision too.






Step 3. Prop Shopping. From here we start collecting our vendors and items for the actual shoot. The flowers, all by Boise At Its Best were incredible- I came to her with our design board, and asked her to make it as lush and big as possible. We worked closely with her to pick out the flowers..the right shades, types, and of course the pretty little wax flowers because I had to have some black in there.






The napkins were actually made by us- I scoured the city of Boise for the perfect black and white striped fabric. The only thing better would have been a pearl napkin tie or maybe a rhinestone embellishment on the bottoms..afterthoughts.



Step 4. Tiny details. We've all seen tossing cones before...but have they been fabric and with tiny details like pink pearl buttons and velvet pink ribbon? I love to put that extra tiny touch on anything I can. The first one was a little time consuming, but once I got the hang of it, the rest of the cones came easily.



 



The gold favor boxes were actually cardboard picture frames spray painted gold, and we even tried to carry the theme of baubles and pearls all the way through to the chocolate truffles.



The entire shoot took us almost 5 hours, with 2 of it being in set up alone, but it was a blast working with all of the vendors to make it happen:

Tana Photography
Ampersand Studios
Boise At Its Best
Brown Party Rental
Chic Boutique
The Chocolat Bar
Miss Tami's Tea Cottage

Since the original feature on Style Me Pretty, the photo shoot has also been featured over at the Blow Out Party Blog too, so be sure to take a peek! Now that I've fulfilled my promise of our behind-the-scenes look at pulling the shoot together, I have to be honest and say I realized I did not take any photos of putting the cones together. However, I can give you this template for the cones themselves; after securing the paper, take a square of fabric and work to tuck it in the top and along the seam on the front. From there, trim any excess fabric that is too long to tuck in and use your hot glue to secure. Finally, take a piece of black or white cardstock and fold gently to just fit inside the top portion of your cone. This will hide your fabric overage; don't worry about making sure the cardstock goes all the way to the bottom- once you have flowers or petals it won't be noticeable! If you need more help or a better, step-by-step tutorial, please email us at blog@weddingsbysoiree.com.  

Have a fabulous Wednesday!

~Brandi

Inspiring Photo No. 17

I thought this photo summed up not only the fabulous event that happened last week, but quite a few other things too:


photo via Santa Barbara Chic Blog

I personally still can't get over the large, and at times, bizarre hats worn to the Royal Wedding last week, and I actually want to be able to wear an over-the-top beauty like this when I get dressed up the next time. Think anyone would look at me oddly?

Besides a representation of one of the biggest events in the last 20 years, I also liked this photo because it represents some new things to come for us, Soiree. Like our new website and brand launch. Yes, it's true, we're essentially blowing up our website and rebranding the company entirely. It's actually a project that we've been working on since March, and we're so close to unveiling the fruits of our labor. Why this photo? Because I think you'll notice a much more grown up, classically sophisticated, stylish feel to the new website. I've spent some time this year really assessing what Soiree stands for, my personality, my team's personality (we're all so much alike- I'm so lucky to have found them!), and what type of bride we work with the best. The pink, pink, pink just isn't cutting it anymore.

So be watching this month as we work to show it all off to you; you'll likely see some of it in bits and pieces, like our brand new event shirts we'll be wearing this weekend at our spring wedding. May has so much in store, be sure to follow along!

~Brandi