Weddings to Celebrate: Christie & Patrick, Mercury Hall | Austin Wedding Planner

Christie and Patrick had the most cheerful, fun wedding! The bright color palette and fun chevron pattern were perfect in the white space of Mercury Hall. The couple chose to do a small plates dinner that freed the guests to focus on conversation and allowed them to enjoy the indoor and outdoor spaces of the venue. Christie worked hard to incorporate special elements such as banners in the yellow and white palette and a hand-made backdrop for the photobooth that made the day feel personal. Then the dancing started...this crowd likes to jam! I love it when people have a good time:)

Christie and Patrick, it was so much fun working with y'all and I wish you many days of happiness ahead!

--Katie

Aren't these flowers happiness-making?

Cast of Vendors:

Coordination: Katie Netherton, Something to Celebrate

Catering: Royal Fig

Florist: Last Petal

Cake: Michelle's Patisserie

Photographer: Kathryn Krueger

Videographer: Crescent Video

DJ: Altared Weddings

Rentals: Premiere and Marquee

Lighting: Atomic Picnic

Weddings to Celebrate: Lane & Greg, Hotel Saint Cecilia | Austin Wedding Planning

I promised more on this wedding that was featured on Style Me Pretty earlier this month, and here it is!

Lane and Greg's June wedding at Hotel Saint Cecilia was one of the most intimate events I've had the pleasure of coordinating. There were about 45 guests, and the focus was on family, friends and delicious food. My kind of party! Lane and Greg met at a California farmer's market, so the locally sourced, "farm to table" food was to be expected (thanks Royal Fig! I'm still thinking about the braised short ribs and creamed corn. Yum!).

Lane is a very creative person, an artist really, and she did the calligraphy for the place cards herself (I even recruited her to do the place cards for a mutual friend's wedding in July, but more on that later:). She also has very creative friends and family who contributed to the decor--her sister-in-law put together the centerpieces, her mom gathered antique vases for the centerpieces and antique napkins for each place setting, and her friend created a painting to serve as the guestbook. They also had individual jam jars as favors at each place setting. Love that!

The ceremony was on the front lawn, with a cheery circle of yellow rose petals around the bride, groom and officiant. Dinner was on the lawn of Suite 4. Groove Labs hung cafe lights to accompany the vintage chandelier already hanging from the oak tree, and an accordionist played tunes as guests enjoyed good food and good company. Their color palette was eggplant with bright pops of yellow and white. Marquee's gorgeous farm tables helped to create a feeling of an intimate, cozy, celebratory dinner party.

Lane and Greg, I had such fun getting to know y'all and I wish you many happy days ahead!

xo, Katie

Cast of Vendors

Planner: Katie Netherton, Something to Celebrate

Venue: Hotel Saint Cecilia

Rentals: Marquee

Flowers: Sister-in-law

Officiant: Spike Gillespie

Catering: Royal Fig

Photography: Cory Ryan

Lighting: Groove Labs

Cake: Wild Wood Bake House

Ceremony Guitarist: Ravner Salinas

Accordionist: J.W. Klaus

Babies to Celebrate: My Little Sister :-)

Being an Event Coordinator can be tough in one respect: You have to work HARD (or at least I do) not to go over-board on things like your childrens' birthday parties, friends' showers, etc. I, like so many other people these days, am on a budget. While I would love nothing more than to throw the most outrageous parties, I still have to write the check (and explain the expense to my hubby) at the end of the day.

Well...my baby sister is expecting her first baby in March. She is the best sister a girl could ask for ... close doesn't begin to describe our relationship. Throwing her a shower was a no-brainer. But what's a girl on a budget to do?? Here is what I did. It was simple. But elegant. And oh so fun. :-)

• Invitations - I went "green." I sent a really cute electronic invitation from Evite's new website: Postmark. If you haven't seen it yet, you should check it out.
• Food - I opted for a brunch shower. Breakfast foods are typically less expensive than other alternatives. And it helps that my sister loves a good brunch. :-) I served french toast shooters, fruit skewers, my Mother's famous chicken salad with crackers, and pigs-in-a-blanket.
• Beverages - Who doesn't love a good mimosa? We had them, of course. Along with orange juice for the mommies-to-be and sparkling water for anyone who preferred a non-juice alternative.
• Flowers - It took going to four different grocery stores, but I finally found white stock (love) and white tulips. Yes, you did read that correctly. I said grocery store. I got 8 stems of stock and 20 tulips for less than $30. I used two vases and one coffee mug that I already owned.
• Other decor - I am all about using what you already have. I own 20 beautiful wood mingling plates and 10 champagne flutes. I borrowed 10 more flutes from my sister (they didn't match mine, but they didn't need to). Throw in a few colorful napkins, some existing placemats and an old baby-blanket, and you're all set. The mingling plates allowed guests to wonder around without feeling the need to sit down. If you don't know what I'm talking about, google them. They are my go-to choice for any party I throw. Best.Buy.Ever.
• Favors - My sister loves macaroons, so I opted to splurge on them. We didn't serve cake or any other sweet during the shower (with french toast & fruit, I thought it would be sugar over-kill), and I thought they would make a great little take-home. I threw them on top of two cake plates I already owned, and they made for another great decor piece.

Here are a couple of pictures I snapped with my iphone that day. I know they aren't the best quality, but I was busy playing hostess :-)



Happy Planning!

DIY Projects

Whether it's because you're on a budget, or simply because you are crafty, there are a ton of fun do-it-yourself projects that you could use for your wedding.

These candle-holders can be used to set your tables and are very quick and easy to make. You just need some old jars, yarn, masking tape, spray paint and fabric, as well as candles to put inside. Photo credit and tutorial found here.

These beautiful chiffon and tulle flowers can be used in your hair, on your bridesmaids' dresses, as a cake decoration, or as decor for your wedding venue. Photo credit and tutorial found here.

If you're into flowers, creating your own bouquet could be a great way to add a personal touch to your wedding. Photo credit and tutorial found here.

If you want to send your guests home with favors that you can make yourself, or even just favors for your bridal party and special guests, these bottles are a great way to show your appreciation by including personalized notes inside. Photo credit and tutorial found here.

For outdoor weddings, monogrammed luminaries are a creative way to light up the pathway with your initials or a nice message. Photo credit and tutorial found here.

If you like to sew, then you probably have most of the materials needed to make this garter for your wedding day. This could be a fun project and maybe even a stress-reliever. Photo credit and tutorial found here.

Finally, these do-it-yourself wedding fan programs are so pretty if you have the time to create them yourself. All you need besides a computer and printer are some scissors, cover stock, and some eyelets and eyelet-setter tools. Photo credit and tutorial found here.

These are just a few ways to add some personal touches to your wedding if you like to be hands-on. They are also great for keeping costs down and making space in your budget for something else. There are so many fun projects for your wedding that you could do yourself if you just get creative. If you have trouble coming up with fresh, new ideas, browsing the internet is always great for inspiration.

Zineera

The Big Question: What Kind of Send-Off?

intimateweddings.com

A couple weeks ago, we posted about sparklers as a send-off. During this burn-ban here in Texas, sparklers aren't always an option, and some venues don't allow them. So what are some fun alternatives to this popular choice? Never fear...there are many creative ways to take your leave for the first time as man and wife!

The pic above shows ribbon streamers--a fun DIY way to incorporate your colors. For a fun vibe, make vintage-inspired pennants with your monogram and colors. Etsy also sells hand-rolled streamers in any color you can imagine: (http://www.etsy.com/listing/63074147/100-hand-rolled-wedding-ceremony). They make for a really cute picture!

Bubbles! This pic shows bubble guns (a fun switch-up from the more common wands) but you can always have custom bubble wands made tied with ribbon in your colors.

For the more creative bride: paper airplanes! Maybe your stationer can create something that goes along with your theme or colors and includes your new monogram. Or if you are crafty, hand-letter them with a sweet note about starting a journey together as a married couple.

groomsoldseperately.com

Maybe your band can lead you out in a New Orleans-style parade? Or if you get married during the Christmas season, give your guests jingle bells. If your wedding falls near to New Year's, noisemakers would fit the bill. Throwing lavender or a variety of herbs would be a nice summer or spring send-off. Whatever you decide, make it fun and interactive for your guests to wish you well!

Katie

DIY Mercury Glass!

When I began planning my wedding, which I wanted to have a vintage, antique feel, I knew there was one decor item I had to have, mercury glass. I soon realized mercury glass is rather expensive and did not fit in with my budget, so thus began my first wedding DIY project!

Here is how I did it!

1. I went to my local Hobby Lobby and purchased all the glassware I needed, such as these votive candles, and the key element Krylon Looking Glass Mirror Like Paint.

2. When I got home I cleaned all the glassware and set up an area outside to do the

painting. It is best to do this outside due to ventilation.

3. I sprayed the inside of the glassware, let it dry, and then repeated with a second coat. For best results hold the can 8 inches away and to spray in a sweeping circular motion.

Voila! I now have amazing vintage looking pieces!

Happy crafting!

Lauren Carrillo

Customized Wedding Favors!

I just love finding new do-it-yourself wedding favors!

How about creating customized crayons for your wedding guests? Sounds great, huh! Just heat your oven to 200 degrees and find a cute, silicone mold that you would like to use and you are set! Here are some mold ideas to get your creative juices flowing!

Photos: Off Beat Bride

Happy Planning!

- Kristen Barton

Great way to incorporate loved ones!

In May, a good friend of mine married the man of her dreams. Not only was it an emotional day because she was so excited but her beloved grandmother had passed away a year before. She knew she wanted to incorporate her into her special day, she just didn't know how! We decided to make this little charm that went on her bouquet and it turned out perfect! It is such a great, unique idea and best of all... it's easy to do! If you like this idea and don't want to make it yourself there are plenty of designers on Etsy who sell items similar to this one!

Happy planning!

<3 Kristen

Charm created by AccessorizeYourStyle on Etsy.com

DIY Escort Cards

Looking for an affordable but elegant way to display escort cards? Gather all your bridesmaids together and have your own craft day. Cut the escort cards in any shape you wish and use a metallic sharpie to label the name of your guest and their table assignment. Then simply stand the cards in your choice of colored sand. Easy, Affordable, & Fun!


Happy Planning!
Lauren DeHart

Fabulous Foods

So just so you guys know, it IS OK to serve hot dogs and hamburgers at your wedding! I discovered a wedding from the 100 Layer Cake site that served feel good foods and did it right! If it fits into your look, than why not serve food that you know guests will enjoy! Check out these cute photos from their wedding and take notes.


Happy Planning!

XOXO

Lorena

Custom Wedding Corsages

Frequently, my brides are looking for alternatives to the traditional boutonniere or corsage. When I stumbled across this idea on Craftzine, I couldn't help but squeeeee!

Wedding at Star Hill Ranch - M and J

I LOVED working with this couple! So fun, so chic, so Austin (which is a bit ironic, given they live in NY!). But you'll love them too. Check out these awesome photos from their photographer,

Lettuce Turnip

.

Doors to the chapel

Ring bearer's pillow

love love LOVED her shoes!!!

The cake, inspired by their dog.

Congratulations M and J!! Thank you so much for trusting us with the details of your day.

xoxo,

jessica

Ceramic "Pillow" for your Ring Bearer

Yesterday, I met Caroline.
Caroline (of Paloma's Nest) is somewhat famous in the wedding-related blog world because she makes these awesome variations on the traditional ring bearer pillow:


Her tagline is "Handcrafted modern heirlooms" and that is so appropriate! Many of my brides have used their family's heirloom ring bearer pillow, but they end up being so delicate - yellowed, brittle fabric held together with restitching or cleverly placed lace - that I'm almost scared to let the cute little ring bearers touch them! The traditional ring bearer pillow just can't withstand the hardships of time.

But a ceramic bowl? What a great way to carry on your family's tradition and add a new (and durable!) heirloom to the collection! In just 3 weeks, Caroline will personally create this piece of art for your wedding....

I really love this idea, but I am also pretty darn impressed by the artist herself. She's so sweet and humble. And her Etsy rating is 100%, so I'm guessing her charm shines through in each transaction. Plus, she's one of our South Austin neighbors. :) Introduce yourself, and tell her I sent you her way.

And be sure to check out the other unique items on her site: http://www.palomasnest.com/

-jessica

How Crafty Are You? | DIY Austin Wedding Planning

I don't know if I should be proud of this, but I consider myself pretty crafty. Yep, I love scrapbooking, knitting, sewing... I wish I had more time for craftiness!

I instantly fell in LOVE with these DIY lanterns.



And the blogger even gives step-by-step instructions so gather some crafty friends, whip up some mojitos and make a night of it! (And invite me....) ;)

Cheers!
jessica

Buttermilk Cupcakes in a Jar | Austin Wedding Planning

Thanks to former STC bride Jill for this!

"How perfect would these be as favors?? Or even favors/escort cards? Or favors/midnight snacks? *Sigh* I miss weddings." -jill

Ingredients

• Vegetable-oil cooking spray

• 1 1/2 cups plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, plus more for muffin tins

• 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar

• 3/4 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

• 3/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 large egg

• 1 large egg yolk

• 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons warm water

• 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons buttermilk

• 1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

FOR THE FROSTING AND ASSEMBLY:

• 12 ounces cream cheese, softened

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons confectioners' sugar

• 1 1/2 tablespoons whole milk

• 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

• 2 1/2 cups raspberry jam

Directions

1. Make the cupcakes: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Coat 2 standard muffin tins with cooking spray, dust with flour, tap out excess. Sift flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt into a mixer bowl. Add egg, yolk, water, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla to bowl; beat on low speed until smooth, about 3 minutes.

2. Divide batter among 20 muffin tins, filling each cup about 2/3 full. Bake, rotating tins halfway through, until cupcakes are golden brown and a tester inserted into centers comes out clean, about 17 minutes. Let cool in tins placed on wire racks for 15 minutes, then turn cupcakes out onto racks, and let cool.

3. Make the frosting: Beat cream cheese, butter, and confectioners' sugar with a mixer on medium-high until smooth. Beat in milk and vanilla.

4. Spoon 2 tablespoons jam into the bottom of each jar. Place cupcake on top, then top with 2 tablespoons frosting. Cupcakes can be stored for 1 day.

Makes 20

From Martha Stewart Weddings.

sustainable place cards

When it comes to your place cards, think outside of the box! These potted succulents not only serve as decor and communicate seating assignments, but they also serve as favors that will continue to live and grow! LOVE it. :)

What are some of the place card ideas you've seen?

As your Wedding Coordinator, we're happy to help you brainstorm ideas that say Austin or Travel or Green or ... anything that ties in with your theme and conveys your personalities.

-jessica

Pictures courtesy of

http://www.erinheartscourt.com

.

What a GREAT idea!

While looking for crafty things to keep me busy this summer, I came across this great idea for wedding envelopes.

How

COOL

!

If you don't want to use children's books (I know, I have a hard time imagining tearing apart BOOKS),

here's a

great website that lets you download patterns to print out.

And, for super cool stickers, address labels and notecards, my favorite sites are

LollyChops

and

A Print A Day

.

Are you making your own invites? Where do you find inspiration?

[cori]