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Fall: Oranges and Grey - 1 Sep 2010, 11:46 am

Dear Fall:

Just want you to know that there’s no need to rush. K?

Oh.my. It’s September already! Yikes and even though it’s still hot hot here, I’m loving these fun finds to keep a bride and her bridal party warm for her cool, crisp fall wedding! With a steel gray for the neutral, the oranges just pop! From tangerine to marigold, the palette is serious yet fun, quirky yet refined! Nice combo.

{click image to enlarge}

Awesome photo props too!

J.Crew ballet flats via Blush and Bashful Events, and BIG SHOUTS out to these etsy designers: scarf via Awkward, and rosebud belt via HeartToFlight, bolero via CrochetButterfly, {cardigan}Silk Roses Bouquet via Patkas, The carpet bag via PeaceLovenPolkaDots, button earrings via AmyMayDesigns, fingerless gloves via GinaMinda, mug sleeve via Natalya1905

Amy Jean from Weddzilla - 31 Aug 2010, 12:19 pm

Today we’re chatting with The Relentless Bride. Now married, the busy Amy Jean Chung also happens to be the Director of Community Development for Weddzilla.com, the first wedding planning and resource site, fully integrated with social media. Read on as Amy shares about her role at Weddzilla as well as all the cool, new features the site has to offer planning brides and wedding vendors. Enjoy!

What is Weddzilla.com and what is your role within Weddzilla? Weddzilla is the first website in the wedding industry to fully integrate the wedding planning process into popular social networks. Weddzilla leverages the power of community to simplifying the wedding planning process for our Nearlyweds. It’s all about connecting them with their perfect vendors and making their wedding planning easy, social, and fun. It’s Wedding planning simplified.

My role with Weddzilla is the Director of Community Development so my focus is on creating and stimulating the Weddzilla community for both brides and vendors. The main avenues of communication that we use are the Weddzilla Blog, which has many brides and Mrs. Bloggers as well as featured vendor blog posts which are provided to help brides with advice, answers to general questions and tips on how to plan stress-free; twitter and facebook. Our main goal is to simplify wedding planning with useful social tools and to provide a community that is supportive, informative and just fun to be involved with.

How is Weddzilla changing the game for online wedding planning? Social media is changing the way brides and vendors interact and Weddzilla is at the forefront of this new frontier. By making it easier for a bride to find her vendor, from near or far, and involving her friends and family with the various social tools on the site planning becomes instant, fun and easy.

What is the one feature you would highlight for Wedding Professionals to use? Our Weddfieds are the game changer for vendors. They allow wedding professionals to be proactive in connecting to the Nearlyweds that need their services anytime they want, without paying for leads. You can set your search parameters by zip code, budget, and wedding date. We notify vendors every time a Nearlywed creates a post that matches their search criteria and they’ll be able to start connecting with the brides they want to work with directly through Weddzilla.

What is the one feature you would highlight for Nearlyweds to use? Our Nearlyweds are loving how easy the Weddmark (a visual bookmarking tool) makes collecting and organizing inspiration from all over the web. And of course they love the fact that each new item they Weddmark between now and September 30, 2010 gives them one entry in the “Weddmark Challenge” and a chance to win a $1,000 gift registry from Macy’s!

Do you do Webinars or educational series to help Nearlyweds or Vendors? I don’t personally but our Director of Marketing, Sara Morgan does. She’s involved in a great social media presentation called “Social or Die.” Making social media a part of your daily business routine is a lot simpler than you may think and our “Social or Die” presentation is takes a straight-shooting approach to help wedding professionals “get real” about how to grow their business through social media.

Tell us about your experience (an anecdote) about working with an up-and-coming internet company. What has the journey been like? Being involved with Weddzilla has truly been a blessing. It’s an amazing feeling to see something start from an idea and grow into a product… especially one that I know will be such a helpful tool for brides everywhere. Planning my own wedding long distance and seeing how much I utilized the internet, I just can’t wait to see how Weddzilla is utilized and the feedback we get on how much easier wedding planning becomes for so many brides out there.

Tell us about your gurus. How did you pick them? What will they be bringing to the Weddzilla community? The Weddzilla Gurus are our team of celebrity wedding professionals that will be sharing their expertise and extensive experience with the Weddzilla Community. The Gurus are not only trendsetters in their respective fields, but are trusted names in the wedding industry. Whether they’re forecasting trends, blogging about their latest wedding experiences, or sharing their weekly tips, the Gurus act as an accessible advisory board for our Nearlyweds and Vendors and allows members of Weddzilla to gain access to, and feel connected with the leaders in their industry through our site.

Why have you made social media such an integral part of Weddzilla.com? Social media isn’t a trend, it isn’t going anywhere. It’s changing the way people interact and the way companies do business. The wedding industry is built around a very social community of brides and vendors. We wanted to create a site that took offline word-of- mouth and social networking and put it into an online format to create that same sense of community through our site. It’s all about engagement, continuous conversation, and instant feedback.

You have a Weddzilla You Tube channel…which videos should we be looking out for? We actually just started putting up some videos to our channel. We want to make it a hub for cool wedding videos from our brides, or users suggest videos to us to add to our site or as a favorite. In addition to wedding related videos you can find tutorials on how to use Weddzilla better, highlights from our launch party, and will be adding more content soon.

What’s on the horizon for Weddzilla? Tell us what we should be looking out for from you guys? Up first is the Guru Awards – that is going to be really cool. We are all about social media and blogs play a huge role in the wedding community and we can’t wait to award 25 great blogs our Blog Guru 2010 title! You thought the Weddmark was cool..wait till you see the iPhone app…It’s going to be addictive!We have a whole bunch of new site features coming soon. The Ideabook, a new twist on the store, and we will be introducing “Wedding helpers” soon which allow our nearlweds to really get social and get their communities or, “wedding helpers” involved in the planning process.

On Blogging…

Why did you start blogging? I first started blogging as a way to journal my wedding planning – a place to collect ideas so I wouldn’t forget. WhenI first started blogging, we didn’t have the Weddmark, where I could easily just bookmark images into one place… so the blog was my version of “Weddmark”ing things. Then, it took on a life of its own. I found that researching traditions, colors and pretty much anything wedding related was fun – and it was informative. I also noted that if I wondered it, someone else probably did to, so why not document my research.

Why do you continue to blog now that you’re married? I’m still recapping the wedding, so that is one main reason I am still blogging – and I’m doing a very detailed job because my main goal with the blog was to document my wedding planning and wedding. Another main reason I still blog is b/c it’s a community that I’ve grown very fond of. Sharing, inspiring and just being supportive to others during this fun but also stressful & challenging period in a person’s life makes me feel good.

Do you consider yourself a wedding junkie? Yes. I do love all things weddings. I love weddings that aren’t “my style.” I love weddings that are “my style.” I love weddings and all details about weddings. I really don’t see how anyone can do a wedding detail “wrong” b/c it really is just an expression of one’s personality. At the end of the day, and when the wedding planning is done and the ceremony begins… the main focus for me is the love, marriage, family & friends and happiness: and that’s what i focus on when Bride walks in the door. It’s completely idealistic, but for that one moment – i think its 150% OK to have no other thought in the world.

What do you do as Director of Community Development? (see above How did you get the position? I had left a comment on the Weddzilla blog when I was researching traditions for a post for my own blog. They contacted me and invited me to the launch party and also asked if I would be interested in blogging for their site. I went to their launch party with a few friends and met the co-founders Aaron and Kristen for the first time. I continued to blog for them and actively blog on my own site. I was contacted a couple months later about doing an interview for ABC in regards to Weddzilla. I thought and still think the idea is pretty awesome, so quickly agreed. A few months after that, I had dinner with Kristen and Aaron and we started discussing me coming on board in a deeper and more involved way and it quickly developed into this position. I’ve been very fortunate to be involved in such a great idea with some really amazing people!

How has your life changed since blogging as a bride to be and now as a wife? I truly thought life post-wedding would be calm. I knew that as the wedding date approached, my life would get hectic, but I didn’t think it’d STILL be hectic! But i’m thriving in being a wife. It’s so weird b/c I’ve never been comfortable with titles – “boyfriend” or “fiance” just felt a little awkward, but I love saying “my husband”… and it feels so natural. I think that I’ve taken on the role as wife with an open heart and mind and am really working on making habits right now that will help us maintain a healthy and fun relationship for the rest of our lives. Perhaps, that’s why i feel life is still hectic – b/c I won’t lie, it is hard work – but definitely worth every moment!

Just how busy are you? I’m busy. Well, maybe I just feel busy. From my day job, which takes up 50-60 hrs/week, to finding time for my own blog, and than coordinating the Weddzilla blog and all the new features the site is coming out with weekly – its pretty hectic. On top of which, I have this new wonderful duty of taking care of my husband and kids (aka pups) – so, I could be giving myself more things to do at home, but its responsibilities I feel that help our home life. Oh yeah, and let’s not forget, we’re still trying to maintain a semblance of normalcy with trying to catch up with friends and keeping up with family! It’s busy, but a blessed, hectic, crazy fun busy!

Tell us about your future aspirations as a wedding blogger? I really want to start focusing on my own issues with wedding planning or the industry as well as post-wedding life. It’s been fun sharing great ideas and inspirations, and recapping – but there is so much inspiration out there, I really think my best contribution to the wedding blogosphere will be finding great bride /vendor bloggers for the Weddzilla Blog and then with my own voice, boldly discussing themes, issues and topics that a lot of us go through in daily life and in wedding planning!

Are you still having fun? Yes. I complain at times that my plate is full or that I’m tired, but the truth of the matter is – I love to be run ragged blogging and keeping up with my blog pals and reading great blogs! I just wish i had more hours in the day to read all the wonderful stuff that is out there. On the tool tip, it’s been fun for me to give my opinion to the Weddzilla.com developers on what I think are fundamental tools that the brides/grooms to be could most benefit from and seeing them unfold one by one on the site. It’s a great feeling to be part of something so cool and innovative!

Amy Jean and Larry ceremony image by Hazelnut Photography

Charcoal, Cream Rose & White - 27 Aug 2010, 3:11 pm

Happy Friday everyone…

What do you think of this soft charcoal, white and cream rose color palette for a city-chic affair? I’m thinking… Soft. Simple. Romantic. and Elegant. The pinks play a subtle role, pairing ever-so-nicely with the richness of the grey. And, I’m loving the idea of a pink wedding gown and with a ruffled pink petticoat to boot… sweet and sassy.

What are your thoughts on a palette of neutrals? AND on wearing pink for your wedding gown?

{click to enlarge}

bridesmaid dress pink dress boutonniere via the knot {Violet’s Flowers, Minneapolis
image: Michael B Studios} pearl necklace reception table via wedding wire New York theme- Pocket wedding invitation via MagnetStreet Weddings

Planning a Send-off? - 25 Aug 2010, 11:06 am

I felt Mrs. Sprinkle pain when she shared on Weddingbee how she regretted immensely not planning a “send-off” for her spring wedding. And, although her wedding was lovely indeed, if Mrs. Sprinkles had regrets, you might too. Thus, I share her words with you because the “send-off” is one aspect of wedding planning that can be easily overlooked.

“I didn’t plan anything special (confetti! sparklers! MAGICAL DOVES!) for our send off, and then regretted it immensely. Instead, we just kinda left, which was fine at the time, but I really wish I had memories (and photos) of all of our guests gathering around us and showering us with something sparkly and filled with love. I have to admit, I am still trying to get over this one…”

That said. Whether the end of the ceremony or the end of the night… a well-planned “send-off” is like proverbial fireworks allowing for a grand exit and fabulous photographs!

These ribbon wands are fun & colorful. Great shot!

image by Your Best Wedding by way of Elizabeth Anne Designs

The ever-popular bubbles. Lots o’ fun. Great shot!

Craig Luster Studios

Sparklers light the way for an end of the evening exit! Great shot!

Seasons of Life

Other ideas for a fun and fabulous send-off…??

Rose petals. Confetti. Streamers. Butterflies.

Wedding Day Make-up Tips - 23 Aug 2010, 11:07 am

“Bridal makeup shouldn’t be about trends, it should be about highlighting natural beauty.” Wendy Shragg ~Bella Bay salon in Excelsior, MN

Whether dramatic or demure, make-up that is both thoughtfully and skillfully/artfully applied~ will bring out the beauty in every *blushing* bride.

Offering simple solutions to getting the look you want, these easy-to-follow make-up tips are share-worthy and taken from the fall/winter issue of Minneapolis St. Paul Weddings magazine.

Do:

Schedule a consultation with a makeup artist at least 2-3 months before your wedding day. Be ready to talk about your ideas and bring bring photos to help you explain.

Practice complete make up application during your consultation. Leave your make-up on all day so you know how it feels and looks over many hours.

Get your picture taken after you’ve “found’ your look so you can see if you look great in the pictures too. Make sure your make-up artist takes detailed notes. No relying on memory for wedding day and you’ll get the look you want!
Use liquid eyeliner and not a pencil.

Don’t:

Wear frosted eye shadow. Frosted shades crease easily and pick up the camera flash in a bad way. Instead, opt for the mattes.
{Wear a lip color with a blue base} if you plan to have black and white photos taken. The blue-based colors will look black on film.
Wear translucent powder. This can actually draw color away from the face and make you look mask-like in photos. Instead, go for the powder with honey or yellow tones. -Jane DiLeo of Mnpls. St. Weddings

Do you have wedding day beauty tips to share?

Source: Mnpls. St.Paul Wedding

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50 FREE Address Labels & Seals - 20 Aug 2010, 1:52 pm

Are you a MagnetStreet Weddings bride or groom? Get 50 FREE Address Labels & Seals just for sharing your stationery item in our facebook photo album! …Read details below

Inspire others by sharing how you personalized your Save the Date, Invitation, Thank You Card… Upload an image of your MagnetStreet wedding stationery item to our Facebook photos!

Share your stationery and share your inspiration!

And just for sharing… you will receive
50 FREE personalized Address Labels and Seals!

Upload your image… Go to our wall and upload your image there. Feel free to include a caption. Then, email us your info (read below for details).

To receive your FREE Address Labels & Seals:

“Like” MagnetStreet Weddings.
Click here to go to our Wall and upload your image.
Email brides@magnetstreet.com your name, phone number and email address.
We will reply to your email with a discount code- good for your FREE Labels & Seals.
Offer is valid through August 31, 2010 and only available to U.S. residents.

Follow MagnetStreetWed on twitter

Happy Friday!

Art & Wedding Cakes - 18 Aug 2010, 11:25 am

Sweet finds!

I just love twitter. One fun bread crumb after the other…

Today… I followed a tweet from Janie of Bride’s Cafe’ who is featuring Shauna Younge Dessert Tables {a talented Minneapolis-based dessert designer}. Shauna is guest-posing at the cafe’ and it’s a great post with inspirational and creative tips for creating your own buffet dessert table!

Naturally, I then went to Shauna’s blog where a couple posts back, she was featuring a couple of extraordinary wedding cakes by artist Maggie LaBaugh of Magpie’s Cakes. And, that’s when my jaw dropped. So naturally, I then went to Maggie’s site and I knew I wanted to share!

Before becoming a chef, Maggie was a classical ballet dancer and all the precision and elegance and softness from dancing is so evident in her artful cakes. Her cakes are like edible performing art. Seriously beautiful. Here are three of my favorites.

Enjoy!

{click to enlarge & to better appreciate}

You can check out Maggie’s entire portfolio here.

BTW, are you on twitter yet?

No related posts.

Best Retailer’s Blog! - 17 Aug 2010, 11:14 am

Honored. And so thrilled to be among the winners of Aisle Dash 2010 Wedding Blog Awards. There were 12 blog categories and winners were chosen by these top-notch wedding industry experts. Wow!

Congratulations to all the winners!

Best Blog for Wedding Inspiration: 100 Layer Cake

Best Blog for Wedding Planning Advice: Wedding Bee

Best Bridal Fashion Blog: The Cinderella Project

Best Community Blog: Wedding Bee

Best DIY Blog: iDiy

Best Groom Blog: Grooms Advice

Best International Blog: Parisian Party

Best Local Area Blog: The Vegas Wedding Planner

Best Magazine or Wedding Web Site’s Blog: What Junebug Loves!

Best Real Bride’s Blog: Thao & Robert

Best Retailer’s Blog: Truly Engaging

Best Service Vendor’s Blog: Studio 222

Best Wedding Blog: Merci New York

for those unfamiliar… Aisle Dash is a wedding planning site with inspiration from every angle!

fashion… beauty… celebrity wedding news… to all things wedding planning…

Backyard Wedding Reception - 16 Aug 2010, 11:23 am

Linnea + Joe and their fun backyard wedding reception!

Here is a wedding after my own heart… there’s lots of pink after all!

I’m excited to share this wonderfully expressive wedding sent over by AMB Photo Company. Mark Thackeray and Brent Holmes are the artists behind the lenses and what a superb job they did of capturing the spirit of this fun couple! The colors, the whimsy, the personality… jam packed.

{wedding details via photog Mark…} “The ceremony was held in the Salt Lake City Temple and their reception was held in Joe’s backyard.

{click on images to enlarge}

The color pink was chosen as one of their primary wedding colors because they wanted something stylish and somewhat bold. Linnea had Chuck Taylors custom-designed in pink for the wedding. Both are extremely playful and fun to be around.

Linnea is actually a kickboxing instructor and could pretty much dominate anyone out there.

{Love Joe’s bout!}

The over-sized cupcake topper was made by one of their friends as a gift to the couple. Their little nephew also stole the show when it came to dancing, pulling out all the moves such as the worm, some break-dancing, and even some retro moves like the sprinkler – this kid knew his stuff!”

Delightful. And a sweet father-daughter moment…

Love it! Do you yourself a favor and start your day off nicely by visiting Amb’s blog to see the rest of this darling wedding!

Congratulations Linnea and Joe! We wish you lots of joy and happiness. Thanks so much for sharing your joy with us!!

Mark and Brent offer their services from coast to coast and are also available for international bookings too! Be sure to check out their main site as well as their blog. Be inspired!

What’s your favorite detail from Linnea and Joe’s wedding?

Happy Monday!