The Royal Wedding

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I will admit it, I had Royal Wedding Fever! Although I did not wake up at 4:00 AM to watch it, I did, however, watch it twice in a row on my DVR! Everything about the wedding was beautiful and regal. Below are my three favorite things from the royal affair!

1. The Wedding Gown-

Kate looked absolutely stunning in the gown designed by the new creative director of Alexander McQueen, Sarah Burton. The lace applique bodice and sleeves, along with it's high-waist and full skirt silhouette definitely had a similar feel to that of the dress worn by Grace Kelly on her wedding day.

2. Kate's makeup-

The soft smokey eye with the soft pink lip and cheeks was all done by Kate herself! Impressive!

3. The Hats & Fascinators-

One word AMAZING! I loved all of the hats and fascinators. They just make an outfit look so chic!

Cheerio!

Summer Fruit Sangria

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I was just on Martha Stewart's website looking for receipes for a late afternoon BBQ and found this gem. Doesn't it sound yummy?!

Here is the receipe...

Ingredients:
6 cups assorted fruits (such as mango, pineapple, cantaloupe, and apricot), sliced or cut into chunks
1/4 cup thinly sliced peeled fresh ginger
1 to 1 1/2 cups fresh basil or mint leaves
1/2 cup orange liqueur, such as Cointreau
1 bottle crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
Ice

Directions: In a large bowl or pitcher, combine fruit, ginger, basil or mint, and orange liqueur. Mash gently with the back of a wooden spoon until basil is bruised and fruit releases juices. Add wine and lemon juice and stir to combine. Refrigerate 1 hour (or up to 1 day). To serve, fill eight glasses with ice and top with sangria.

Enjoy!

Weddings to Celebrate - Heather and Max

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Heather and Max hired me to help with the day-of execution for their wedding at the beautiful Texas Federation of Womens Clubs Mansion (aka "The Mansion"). I loved working with Heather - not only is she gorgeous (see below!) but she's hilarious! And, it didn't take long to see that Max shares her sense of humor. :) These two are going to have a marriage full of laughs.

Beautiful pictures by Cassie of Cassie Rose Photography (I love Cassie - former STC bride, and former STC intern, many moons ago). :)


















Heather and Max - thank you so much for trusting me with your day. And teaching me what it means to be iced! Ha! ;)

See you on facebook!
xoxo,
jessica

Cast of vendors:
Something To Celebrate
DNA Events
Salt Lick
Simon Lee
Last Petal
Cassie Rose Photography
Mark A Cruz
FC Media

The Language of Flowers

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Photo from theknot.com



Choosing flowers for your big day can be a bit overwhelming. There are SO many types, textures, colors and scents, it can be hard to know where to start. Because I'm a romantic (or maybe because I obsessively watch BBC dramas about the 19th century) I love the idea of the language of flowers.




Photo from http://culturecommunication.org




Ladies used to await a bouquet, or a posy, from that special someone so they could analyze just what he thought about her and their romance. Here's some of those meanings--why not incorporate a flower or plant because of what it means, adding a unique, thoughtful touch to your bouquet and decor?

Garden rose: Love 
Ranunculus: You are "radiant with charms"
Dogwood: Duration
Tulip: A declaration of love
Ivy: Friendship or fidelity
Fern: Magic
Lily-of-the-valley: Return of happiness
Pink carnation: Woman's love
Snowdrop: Hope
Lilac: First emotions of love
Sweet pea: Delicate pleasures
Peonies: Bashful
Wheat: Wealth and prosperity

Both photos above from marthastewartweddings.com



Happy flower hunting, and remember,

Love is in the details,

Katie




Weddings to Celebrate: Jennifer & Artie

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I don't even know where to begin with this one. Deep sigh. Small tear. I love this couple.

Jennifer, Artie and I began planning their wedding last February - and it has been one of the best planning processes of my career. Rarely do I see two people who have such a great connection with one another. The instant you meet them, you know they are perfect for one another. And you can also see what terrific people they are in general. Fun, funny, smart and sweet - you couldn't ask for better clients. Every single vendor LOVED THEM. And it's hard not to. They are the type of people that have opinions, but also trust that you will steer them in the right direction. We spent a lot of time creating the decor for this wedding. It was a collaborative effort between myself, Mrs. Jennifer herself, and from visionaries Rob Smith (Events In Bloom) and Joe Zuniga (Impressive Events). Here are just a few of the knock-out pictures photography genius Chip Gillespie (shooting for Studio 563) took. If you don't know Chip, you should. Guys - I am so glad we were put in each others' paths. It was an honor to help you plan your big day. xoxo,

 

STELLER Cast of Vendors. This is event would not have been as amazing without each and every one of them:
Venue/Catering: Hotel Galvez - Angie Westhoff and team
Coordinator: Something to Celebrate, Resha Zazueta
Photographer: Studio 563, Chip Gillespie
Videographer: Alexander Wedding Films, Alex White
Florist / Linens: Events In Bloom, Rob Smith
Lighting & MC: Impressive Events, Joe Zuniga
Cake: Cakes by Gina (Can you say YUM?!)
Candy Buffet: Sugar Bunch Creations (I am SO GLAD we hired them.)
Band: Platinum Band (A-MAZING)

Engagement Session (featuring Lora and Derek, with Sweet Caroline Photo)

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Should you do an engagement session? Absolutely. Yes. Definitely.  :)

Here's why:
  • You get to know your photographer, and vice versa. I notice a discernible difference in my clients who have Engagement Sessions with their wedding photographers. On the wedding day, these clients are much more at ease with their photographer, which allows the photographer to capture more genuine and intimate emotions.
  • Engagement Sessions are a great way to see how you'll work with your photographer, before the wedding day. I have had one client who actually chose to go with a different photographer for their wedding, because the engagement session showed them that they didn't enjoy working with that particular photographer.
  • You're young, you're fabulous.... you need to capture this time of your life while wearing something other than formal wear or a bridal gown. Excellent photos that capture you as a couple, in the place(s) that are important to you.
  • Guestbooks that incorporate engagement pictures are awesome. The photographer provides an album of images from your Engagement Session, with lots of white/neutral space. Guests love flipping through the books, finding their favorite images to sign around. And the guestbook is then worthy of coffee table display, rather than being tucked on a bookshelf, rarely to be seen again.
  • Save-The-Dates are more personal when they incorporate a picture of you guys, and even better if it's a stunning, professional picture.
When considering your photographer budget and customizing your package, be sure to seriously consider adding an engagement session.

Check out these fun engagement shots of STC couple Lora and Derek, who will be getting married this October. They did their Engagement Session with their wedding photographer, Sweet Caroline Photo.

Happy planning!






















Rose Petals

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When it comes to rose petals at ceremonies, in my opinion, you've got to go big or don't do any at all. It is super important to express to your florist that you want to order petals on the heavy side to make sure it is long enough for your aisle. Even better, find a photo to show them how you would like the petals displayed.

If you are having an outdoor wedding, arrange with your florist to be on-site 30-45 before your ceremony start time so that she can set-out the petals. If you are getting married on a cliff, over-looking the beach, and you have noticed that it has always been super windy on prior visits...that may be a sign to fore-go the petals.

Getting married indoors you can avoid this problem all together.

Rose petals down aisles are BEAUTIFUL when done correctly, nothing bothers me more than when an aisle looks like the petals look as though they were left over from yestereday's ceremony.

Pretty rose petasl..Below


Photo Credit: Bravo Bride



Lorena Alexandria

Parisian Love

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As some of you may know, I have recently returned from a trip to Paris and London! I wanted to post some of my favorite photos from my time in Paris for some pretty inspiration to add to your day! If anyone needs advice on upcoming trips to Europe, I am your girl! :)

Or if you are looking to plan your very own Parisian dream wedding, I am DEFINITELY your girl!!! :)





Lorena Alexandria

Hard at Work

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As I've said before, we try hard to stay out of wedding-day pictures. However, we occasionally end up in some of the non-pro pics the wedding guests take. I couldn't help but post this one, taken two weekends ago by one of Jennifer & Artie's wedding guests. I was showing Jennifer how to cut the cake. What you don't see is that after I showed them, I backed FAR away from the table and ducked down. :-P If you can't laugh at yourself, what can you laugh about? Yes, the cake is almost as tall as I am. In my defense, I don't wear heels on a wedding day. And being short helps me blend in with the crowd. :-) I can't WAIT to show you the professional pictures from this fabulously STUNNING wedding. After 13 months of planning, everything turned out perfectly. Plus I got to walk away with two new and very dear friends. Love you guys!

Behind the Scenes

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"A leader is best when people barely know he exists, when his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will say: we did it ourselves."
– Lao Tzu

As your wedding coordinators, we make sure you get the glory. We don't set our business cards out on your guestbook table, or label your favors with our logo - your wedding is not about US. Rather, we're behind the scenes, carefully making sure that everything is perfect, and that your friends and families are amazed at how flawlessly YOU'VE pulled it off. :)

Happy planning!
jessica

Something To Celebrate assists bride with dress.  Picture by Schmitt Photography circa 2006.

Weddings to Celebrate: April & Matt

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In January I had the privilege of doing the day-of coordination for April & Matt's wedding at the beautiful Chateau Polonez. April and her mom Kim are probably the most creative people I have ever met. The detail they put into the design of this wedding is incredible! One of my favorite things they created is April's bouquet, which was made completely out of antique brooches!

Below are some amazing pictures taken by the incredibly talented Julie Wilhite!









April & Matt- You are an amazing couple and it truly was an honor to be a part of your special
day.


Cast of Vendors:
Coordinator: Something to Celebrate, Lauren Carrillo
Photographer: Julie Wilhite Photography, Julie Wilhite

Weddings to Celebrate: My Sweet Destination Duo

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As I've said before, the best compliment anyone could give me is a referral. I met this sweet bride when she was the bridesmaid in another wedding I coordinated several years ago. I couldn't have been more thrilled when she contacted me in July, announced that she was engaged, and asked me to coordinate her destination wedding. Fast forward six months, and the wedding was spectacular. One adorable couple + One dream location (overlooking the Pacific in sunny Palos Verdes) + One steller team of vendors + An amazing group of their 80 closest friends and family = a weekend I doubt anyone will ever forget. Here are a few of the killer images the always amazily Craig Davis (Studio 563) captured ...












Guys - I know I've told you a thousand times, but words really cannot express how honored I felt to help you plan your big day. Thank you for trusting me to help you pull everything together!

xoxo,


Cast of Vendors...

Venues: Wayfarer's Chapel & La Venta Inn
Coordinator: Something to Celebrate, Resha Zazueta
Photographer: Studio 563, Craig Davis
Videographer: Isabel Gonzalez Videography, Isabel Gonzalez
Florist: Lily Pad Floral
DJ: Tribe DJ
Transportation: Nightlife Transport
Hair/Makeup: Design Visage

Spring Cocktails

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Signature cocktails are a great way to add another personal touch to your special day, as well as an easy way to stay on budget without the cost of a full bar! Here are some refreshing spring cocktail recipes. ENJOY! :)


Mango Mojito


  • 3 lime wedges
  • 8-10 mint leaves
  • 1/4 oz. Grand Marnier
  • 1/4 oz. Simple syrup
  • 1 1/2 oz. 10 Cane Rum
  • 1 oz. Mango Nectar


Directions: Muddle the limes, mint, and mango nectar in a mixing glass. Add Rum and ice and shake briefly. Pour into a highball glass. Top off with splash of Veuve Clicquot Champagne.

Garnish: long orange twist

Watermelon Champagne Cocktail


  • 3 watermelon chunks
  • 1/4 oz. fresh squeezed lemon juice
  • 1/4 oz. simple syrup (equal parts sugar:water)
  • 1/4 oz. Grand Marnier
  • 1 drop orange flower water
  • 3 oz. Veuve Clicquot Champagne


Directions: Muddle the watermelon in the lemon, simple, Grand Marnier, and flower water in a mixing glass. Add ice and Champagne and stir briefly. Strain into a chilled champagne flute. Top off with extra splash of Veuve.

Garnish: long lime twist


Pimm’s Cup


  • 2 oranges, cut into half-moons
  • 2 lemons, cut into half-moons
  • 1 Persian cucumber (see Notes) or one 3-in.-long piece English cucumber, washed and sliced
  • 2 cups Pimm's No. 1 (see Notes)
  • 4 cups Sprite or other lemon-lime soda
  • 6 to 8 large sprigs mint, crushed gently, plus a few loose leaves

Fill 2 pitchers 1/4 full with ice. To each, add a layer of orange slices, a few lemon slices, and a layer of cucumber slices. Repeat the layering. Pour in the Pimm's and Sprite, dividing between pitchers, and mix with a long-handled spoon. Poke mint sprigs and leaves down into drink. Divide drink among 8 tall glasses, with a few slices of fruit and cucumber in each glass, along with some mint leaves.


The Wandering Cloud Highball


  • 1 1/2 oz. 10 Cane Rum
  • 1/2 oz. fresh grapefruit juice
  • 1/2 oz. organic ginger tea syrup
  • 2 oz. all-natural tonic water


Directions: Shake the first three ingredients in a mixing glass with ice and strain into an ice-filled brandy snifter. Top off with the tonic water.

Garnish Fresh mint and home-grown raspberries.


recipes courtesy of Wedding Cocktail Design

Weddings to Celebrate: Heather & Jared

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Two weeks ago I had the overwhelming privilege of acting as "day of" coordinator for Heather and Jared. Heather has an eye for detail, a head for business, and a heart of gold. And Jared is as adorable and sweet as he can be. Plus, they are part of my favorite group of people :-) That's right...they are friends with Jenna & Dawid and Erin & Judd. I could go on and on about this small-town crowd. As I've said many times before, I adore them. And two Saturdays ago did not disappoint. :-)

Here are a few pictures from their fantastic fiesta at The Bell Tower on 34th Street taken by the very talented Alison Carlino of Carlinos Photography. I have not had the pleasure of working with Alison before, and I'm so glad I met her. What a dream!









Guys - Thank you so much for including me in your special day. You're families and friends were wonderful, and your wedding was a huge success. I wish you a lifetime of smiles and sunshine.

much love,


Cast of Vendors:

Venue / Caterer : The Bell Tower on 34th Street

Coordinator: Something to Celebrate

Photographer: Alison Carlino

Florist: Darryl & Co

DJ & Lighting: DJs Unlimited

String Quartet: Harmony Strings

Cakes: Edible Designs by Jessie

STC Wedding on Style Me Pretty

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Have you checked out Style Me Pretty today? The featured wedding is one of my fall weddings. :) It was a delight to work with this bride and her mom on all of the planning and design for this gorgeous hill country wedding in Wimberley at Red Corral Ranch. Glad to see it's getting the attention it deserves! :)

















Thanks again to the amazing Ben Godkin for the fabulous pics! Can't wait to work with Ben again.