Copper craze

 

Copper has been blowing up our Pinterest feed as of late, and there's a good reason. It's a beautiful and bold metallic hue and ties in perfectly with other autumnal trends like pumpkin spice lattes, comfy off-white sweaters, and auburn leaves.

 

 

 

Copper is a lovely alternative to rose gold for fall weddings, and lends itself perfectly to sequins. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cakes are a wonderful way to contrast copper's brassy boldness against simple elegant white. 

 

Consider copper in your tablescape as well. Copper flatware, drinkware, and glassware are all perfect touches to a fall wedding. For a signature cocktail, try a moscow mule with a spritz of apple cider.

 

 

 

For more copper inspiration, check out our Pinterest! 

Giveaway!

We are SO excited to announce our first giveaway! You could be the lucky winner of the lovely earrings pictured above from Stella & Dot. Just follow us on Instagram @sweetfaceevents and like the giveaway picture to be entered! 

For a second entry, follow us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/SweetfaceEvents

or Twitter: www. twitter.com/SweetfaceEvents

All entries will be checked, and the winner will be chosen at random. 

Happy Weekend everyone! 

Trending Tuesday: Fall Flair

It's that time of year again...there's a crispness in the air, the leaves are starting to change, and Starbucks has introduced the PSL once again. Fall weddings are during nature's transition period, and if done well, they are a perfect balance of summer's brightness and warmth and winter's cool elegance.

Two weeks ago, we had the privilege of designing the window display for Soliloquy Bridal in Herndon with Floral by M. With spray painted leaves hanging from branches, the store definitely looks ready for fall! Inspired by this, we've pulled together some of our favorite fall wedding inspiration.

Our favorite fall trend is the gilded look, which covers everything in a beautiful gold hue 

Even pumpkins look better gilded! 

Fall florals can take a light and airy feel to a darker, late autumn vibe depending on your style 

Apples are another wonderful fall-themed element to incorporate into your wedding. From cider and pie during the reception to apple butter as a favor, apples are sure to be a guest favorite. 

Happy fall everyone! 

Happily Ever After

First things first: you are now a Mrs! While you may love using your new name, unfortunately the government doesn't catch on automatically. Changing your name can be such a hassle, but luckily there are several websites out there that provide an all-in-one guide for a small fee. We love Kleinfeld's HitchSwitch guide- it autofills the forms for you and lays out step-by-step what to do. We would have been lost without it! Check it out at https://www.kleinfeldnamechange.com

Next, let's talk about your dress. Finding THE perfect dress was probably one of the most important parts of your wedding planning process, so of course you want to take good care of it! Do some research to find a wedding gown preservationist in your area, and make sure to read the agreement! If your dress is damaged in the process (highly unlikely, don't worry!) you want to make sure you get compensated. Also pay close attention to the instructions they give you about opening the box if it is sealed, and don't be afraid to ask lots of questions! Dress preservation can be pricey depending on where you live and the type of gown, and it is possible to preserve at home. Wrap it in muslin (never tissue paper) and store it in a sturdy box or wedding chest. If you have a little extra cash down the road to take it to a professional preservationist, it will have been kept safe and secure. Read more about dress preservation from our friends at The Knot here: http://wedding.theknot.com/bridal-fashion/wedding-dress-shopping/articles/preserving-your-wedding-dress.aspx

So what about the 200 mason jars, dozens of hurricane vases, and various wedding signage you purchased that have turned your two-car garage into maybe-fitting-a-Smart-Car size? Trust us, you will not use them again! It's not worth taking up storage space in case you throw a dinner party sometime in the future for which you can reuse the decor. Also, the chances of you knowing someone who is getting married in the near future with the exact same wedding theme as you is zero to none. However, expand that pool of your acquaintances to the entire nation, and the probability is much better! Let us introduce Ruffled's Recycle Your Wedding, where you can post used wedding decorations for sale. The best part? It's free! No commission or listing fees like Ebay, and way less sketchy than Craigslist. Also, if you are a bride still in the planning stages, be sure to peruse to your heart's content to find gently used decor (as well as gowns and accessories) for way cheaper than retail value!  http://ruffledblog.com/community/recycle-your-wedding.html
Check out similar sites Weddingbee and Tradesy as well:
http://www.weddingbee.com/
https://www.tradesy.com/weddings/

Everyone's heard of the one year anniversary tradition to celebrate with the top layer of your wedding cake you saved. But do you really want to eat year-old cake that's been shoved at the back of your freezer? Maybe! We can't guarantee it will taste good, but it's a guarantee for laughs and will provide a sweet moment reminiscing about your reception with your husband. We'll leave the choice to save it or not up to you! 

Finally, once you get your photographs back from your photographer (it does take around 4-6 weeks, we know it is SO hard to wait!) make a photo book or scrapbook. This is much easier than wading through a stack of 4x6 photos, and you can highlight your favorite shots. Sites like Shutterfly often have discounts on photo books, so sign up for emails and be on the lookout! 

Wishing you a stress-free, Happily Ever After! 

Neon Twist

Are you a modern bride looking for a spunky, bright wedding theme? We have one word for you: neon. 

 

This trend is so much more than 80s blast from the past. It is modern and bold and looks best when paired with geometric designs. 

The best part about neon is that while it incorporates many electric colors (hot pink, bright yellow, vibrant orange, even purple!) you can choose one color as your "base" and have it as the dominate shade throughout your decor. The bouquet below has a pink base, with zests of yellow and green. 

Bright neon isn't your thing? Consider a toned-down, preppy version à la Lilly Pulitzer. You still get the bright colors without the bold modernity. 

Bright, fresh colors are the best way to warm up a fall or winter wedding! 

Throwback Thursday: Why Use a Day Of Coordinator?

It's Thursday again...and we are throwin it back to 2011! Check out this post from the archives that proves good advice never goes out of style. 

______________________________________

All brides have a budget, that's a fact.  Let's get real though, that budget pretty much goes out the window once you find your dream venue, wedding gown, photographer -- and don't forget that photo booth or black and white checkered dance floor that you just can't live without!  We understand the challenges of trying not to overspend.  At the same time, we know the once-in-a-lifetime chance of having everything that's really important to you make your wedding day truly "YOURS" and unique from the last wedding you went to!

Most brides overlook the importance of hiring a Day Of Coordinator for their wedding simply because they didn't make a budget for it.  With that in mind, most brides can get away with not hiring a coordinator because of the venues they work with.  For example, if you choose any of the big banquet hotel chains, they have an Event Planner on hand to take care of the cocktail and reception details and they will even line your bridal party up for the big intro.

But what about all the millions of details before the reception?  Hiring a Day Of Coordinator not only gives you the peace of mind that you have a hands-on adviser in most cases months before your wedding, but it allows you to have less worries from the second you wake up on your big day until the last box of decor is packed away after the big celebration. 

A Day Of Coordinator is simply your right hand 'behind the scenes' man on your wedding day.  This is the person that will handle all the things you don't want to even think about as you enjoy every second of your big day.  What bride wants their bridal party or Aunt Martha putting together the last intricate details of their centerpieces?  Who knows all your vendors by name, has your timeline memorized, makes sure the corsages are put on correctly, knows the layout of the reception hall, knows exactly when to change the lighting and has a hands-on back up emergency kit just in case your dress rips, or one of your bridesmaids breaks a heel?  Call us J-Lo in the Wedding Planner, but that's exactly what we're equipped for!  We've just replaced J-Lo's head set for our walkie talkies :o) and thank the Lord none of our brides have ripped their dress or had anyone fall in the ceremony (the reception is a whole other story).....!

Some reasons where I believe you MUST have a Day Of Coordinator:

1. Having your wedding at a B&B, winery, or historic landmark: Most of these venues DO  NOT have a planner on site, which means you would have to rely on your caterer and DJ to make everything flow. Do you trust your DJ and caterer enough to handle that job?

2. Having a wedding guest list of 150 or more: Most catering directors rely on their staff to manage sections of the wedding guest seating.  They will be too focused on getting the food out on time and any decor malfunctions or guest seating mix-ups will not be their priority.

3. If you have intricate decor/centerpiece setups: Most florists help with flower centerpieces but they may miss any detail requests on table cards, favors, and any additional decor you have on tables and the around reception hall.  

Overall, your coordinator would make sure you get exactly what you envisioned your "dream day" to be.  Maybe a full time Wedding Coordinator is not in the budget, but don't undermine what a Day Of Coordinator could do...to help make your wedding day run smoothly!

             

Sweetface Events Day Of Coordinator: $$$

Peace of Mind: Priceless!

Trending Tuesday: Cascade Bouquets

We all dream of the perfect bouquet for our wedding: lush, beautiful, overflowing. And that is exactly the essence that cascade bouquets capture. 

This popular trend for fall of 2014 is all about romantic florals. 

Cascade bouquets look best when paired with a classic wedding gown or a flowy bohemian dress. They are your statement piece, so flashy belts or jewelry will compete for attention. 

Show your florist pictures of how you want the bouquet to look- don't be afraid to get specific! There are multiple ways to craft the "cascade" so you want to ensure your bouquet looks perfectly lush and overflowing rather than falling apart! 

Bridal Shower Bliss: A How-To Guide for the MOH

Congrats on being the maid of honor! Among your duties include organizing the bridal shower. Confused and unsure where to start? We’ve got you. 

First things first, establish a budget. The bride should not pay for the shower; that responsibility falls on the bridesmaids. Talk with them to establish a fair contribution from everyone, then work on how to divide the money. Besides big-ticket items like food, consider smaller expenses in your budget including fresh flowers, invitations and postage, and favors. 

Next, get input from the bride. Go over the basics: favorite food, colors, etc. Ask her to create a guest list. Will it be an intimate gathering or will all women invited to the wedding receive an invitation? Be sure to send an invitation the bride’s mother and other close female relatives as a courtesy, even if they don't live nearby or cannot attend. After these initial questions, leave the bride out of the planning process. This event should be for her, not by her!

Establish a location. Will you rent a venue (usually space at a restaurant or country club) or host it at a bridesmaid’s house? This affects food as well. If renting a location, be sure to ask about minimum food and beverage charges. If you'd prefer to have it at a private home, will the food be catered or prepared by the bridal party? 

Once the date and details have been set, you can design an invitation. Be sure to include the registry, RSVP options, and dress code in the description. Evites may be easiest for a younger crowd, but traditional paper invites are appropriate for all generations.

Next comes the fun part! When working on games and activities, keep it light - make sure not to embarrass the bride! Yes, that means no wrapping toilet paper around her to create a wedding dress.  

The week before, have everything confirmed and prepared. Hold a crafting session with the other bridesmaids if you're doing DIY décor. Finalize all games and activities.

Last thing: delegate! You may be planning the event, but the other bridesmaids are there to support you! 

Sweetface Tips & Tricks:

• You don't have to match the bridal shower colors to the wedding.
• Involve the groom by asking him questions about himself that can be used later for trivia.
• Have a timeline. As the MOH and hostess, you will serve as the MC and are responsible from moving people away from small talk and to the organized activities.
• Check out Etsy for budget-friendly décor shops (some of our favorites include Simply Smitten Designs for invites, Bahana Splits Boutique for crafting supplies, and My Little Otter for dining accessories).

Florabotanica

Tired of the vintage rustic theme? Yeah, us too. Move on to a new page with a florabotanica theme: think overflowing, lush greenery and florals. 

Inspired by the new Balenciaga perfume and the floral themes on the runway, the florabotanica theme is perfect for the romantic bride who always dreamed of having her wedding in a garden. 

Stay clear of overusing succulents- this is hot right now but will be passé by the time your big day comes. Instead, choose rich greenery such as wreaths and garlands. 

Think outside the box: use seed packets as escort cards, display a patterned cake, or even don a floral crown. 

Loving this theme? Check out local venue Meadowlark Botanical Gardens in Vienna, or explore other amazing options covered here: http://sweetfaceevents.blogspot.com/2014/04/wedding-season-is-upon-us-and-we.html

Trending Tuesday: Naked Cakes

As summer heats up, it's time to start stripping off layers. Yes, that includes your wedding cake! Naked cakes are trending now and are the perfect touch of simple elegance for your reception. 

Keep it simple with berries for a summer wedding 

Topped with florals and script lettering, this cake has a romantic feel

The scalloped frosting and monogram topper give this cake a modern, preppy vibe

A DIY pennant topper adds a touch of rustic charm 

Love this trend? Check out more naked cakes on our Pinterest board: http://www.pinterest.com/sweetfaceeve/trending-tuesday/

     Trending Tuesdays will now be a regular feature on our blog! 

Be sure to subscribe via email on the sidebar or follow us on bloglovin so you don't miss a post!

https://www.bloglovin.com/blog/12383871

Have a Sweet(face) Tuesday! 

Wedding at Artisphere 5.31.14

Such a great team this weekend for a

wedding at Artisphere for Jessica and Mat.  We worked alongside Spilled Milk Catering, Floral By M, The Phoenix Band and Sweets By E.

The guests enjoyed the ceremony on the terrace and the reception in the main gallery.  Artisphere is a unique wedding venue in Arlington and close to DC!

Did Someone Say Stella & Dot?

So, I have started a new venture... I recently (very recently) became a Stylist for the company, and couldn't be more excited. There are some really really great pieces, including my faves - the Jacinthe Bracelet, the Somervell Necklace, the Nancy Studs! All that I wear almost daily. Not to mention, the jewelry is great, but the purses are even greater! Who doesn't need the City Slim Diamond Raffia Cluth or the Metallic Pouf?! I have both in my display and love all the different prints and styles.
Since we're in the wedding biz, I make it a point to try and sell the bridal accessories. The Deco Earrings make for the perfect pair or the Daphne Pearl Necklace makes for a great statement piece.
I get so excited about all the different accessories, because I really feel like they're designed for all the fashionistas out there and could really pull your day to night look together. You should take a look at my site: http://www.stelladot.com/sites/nicolehild and let me know if you have any questions at all! All orders come gift ready in cute little boxes, and my favorite part is the quick shipping! I ordered the Diamond Raffia Clutch on a Thursday morning, and got it in the mail by Saturday afternoon! What a treat that was!

Anyways, I really think you'd love the accessories, now go check everything out :)

Wedding season is upon us, and we couldn't be happier! We've already kicked off 2014 with 2 weddings, one at The Barns at Wolf Trap and the other at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens. It's already the end of April, and I can't believe it! I feel like this year is going by so quickly, and we need to pump the brakes! As of right now, we have 14 weddings for the year. It's amazing and we're so blessed. Inquiries are still coming in too, so who knows, maybe we'll reach 20?! That'll be a record breaking year for us, if we do.
Want to know where we'll be working this year?! Here is the list of our 2014 weddings, and links to their websites so you can contact them if you'd like!

1. The Barns at Wolf Trap

   

(photo taken by Sweetface)

2, 3, & 14. Meadowlark Botanical Gardens 

 (photo taken by Sweetface)

4. Thomas Birkby House

 (photo courtesy of Weddingwire)

5. Mathwig Estate Barn

(photo courtesy of Mathwig Estate Barn)

6. The Ritz Carlton - Tyson's

(photo courtesy of herecomestheguide.com)

7. Josephine Butler Parks Center

(photo courtesy of Front Page Wedding)

 8. Strathmore Mansion

(photo courtesy of Google Images)

9. Woodend Sanctuary

(photo courtesy of Woodend Sanctuary)

10. Fairview Park Marriott

(photo courtesy of JW Photography)

11. Hendry House

(photo courtesy of Hendry House)

12. Sequoia

(photo courtesy of Sequoia)

13. Artisphere

(photo courtesy of Artisphere)