Thursday, December 31, 2009

The Adelmann

I went and visited with Karen and Travis down at the newly opened Adelmann, A Woodriver Event Center. AMAZING is the only word I can use to describe this venue! If you are interested in a classy, elegant, feel this is your place. I think after all of the searching I may have found my venue of choice. The ceilings are amazing, this place is pure elegance! I have some of the pictures I snapped below. I am pretty sure this is where my wedding will be I just have to get the fiance's stamp of approval! It is gorgeous. The amazing thing about the Adelmann is you wouldn't need to do much to make it perfect. I definitely like the motto less is more when it comes to
weddings and this place really screams it. It would take very little to this place. I see candles and that's about it. The price is great as well. There are two ballrooms upstairs (where the Loft and Cool Hand Lucks used to be) it is $1200.00 a piece for the ballrooms or $1800.00 if you rent the entire floor. Travis has some great ideas for wedding ceremonies and receptions.. just ask! I would highly recommend this venue to any bride that hasn't found that place yet! Call Travis at 208-230-0285 and tell him TreasureValleyBrides.com sent you! Oh and I forgot to tell you that with the room rental you also get the tables and chairs (huge savings!). The do not have a website up yet because they are so new but Travis or Karen would be happy to show you around, they are very friendly and informative! Another great thing, because they are so new they have a lot of openings for the coming year! If you do view it or if you've been there already I'd love to hear from you on what your thoughts are for setting it up!
Enjoy the pictures..


Wednesday, December 30, 2009

www.ABridalExtravaganza.com

Just wanted to remind all of the brides out there of the big show this weekend,
go to www.ABridalExtravaganza.com

Location: Boise Centre on the Grove
Dates & Times: Saturday January 2nd 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
fashion show at 12 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Sunday January 3rd 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
fashion show at 1 p.m.
Cost: $5.00

JUST A FEW TIPS FOR THOSE OF YOU THAT HAVE NOT BEEN TO A WEDDING SHOW BEFORE.....

1.) Wear the most comfortable shoes you own, don't go for cute go for comfy!
2.) Bring cash some of the food/drink vendors only accept cash..
3.) Have at least 3 hours to commit to the show, any less then that, you will feel rushed and wont be able to enjoy yourself.
4.) Don't force (guilt) your fiance into going if he doesn't want to.. it'll ruin your time! Take your mom, MOH, or sister, someone that is going to be part of your big day and is excited about it!
5.) AND MOST IMPORTANT... make mailing labels before you go, about 3 pages worth, include
*Name of Bride & Groom
*an email address (think about creating an email for your wedding only.. makes you more organized!)
*Phone number
*Mailing address
*and wedding date

Only give your labels to vendors you are interested in, it's ok to say no!

And remember ENJOY yourself!














Newly engaged.. now what?

First off we would like to say congratulations! It is a magical time right after you get engaged and also pure ciaos! Where to start, what to do first, I know I'm right there with you! My boyfriend proposed after 4 1/2 years of being together and I get soo overwhelmed! What I have found it is important to get organized first and foremost! Second, you need to sit down with your fiance and brain storm of what you want your wedding day to be like, do you want casual, over the top, garden setting, chic, you really need to get an image in your heads of what you are wanting. Once you have that it tends to start flowing. We are lucky in this day and age because we have GOOGLE! I google everything. Anytime I have free time on my hands I go to google, then to images, and look at pictures of "wedding decorating ideas, unique favors, wedding flower boutiques, the list goes on and on. Another great idea is to print them off. When you see something you like print it off and put it in your binder that way you can always go back and look at it and you don't have 1000 bookmarked websites.
Find some sort of vision board, lets say you are interested in a garden wedding ..This would be a great vision board for you (if you like these ideas)

lets say you are more into Hollywood Romance for you wedding.. how about this one??It really makes a difference if you have a clear picture of what you want; always remember it is about what you and your fiance want. Not what your mom, best friend, or mother in law wants. This is your day make it about you.

Monday, December 21, 2009

Wedding Channel Sale!

I just received an email from http://www.weddingchannel.com/ and they are having a great sale..







These favor vases were $12.95 for 6; now they are only $8.00 for 6.













How cute are these shirts? They used to be $24.95; no ONLY $9.99!



And their personalized Hershey Kisses were $25.00 for 100 and now only $15.00 for 100!


Head out to their website, they have some great money saving ideas right now!


Saturday, December 19, 2009

10 Steps to Start the Planning

Great article from www.weddingchannel.com, if you have not signed up for your free membership on weddingchannel.com, We would strongly suggest it. This website has amazing advice, lots of pictures, great ideas! Check it out!

How do you start planning your wedding? Whether you've had your fairy tale vision planned since you were five or want to plan a wedding with all the latest trends, we'll keep you calm, focused and even smiling throughout the entire process. Sign up for your FREE WeddingChannel.com membership now, and let us show you how to get started:

1. Imagine Your Dream Wedding

Before you announce to the entire world that you are engaged and everyone assumes that they are invited to your wedding, we suggest that you sit down with your fiancé and discuss the date, time, size, formality and style of your wedding -- things that really reflect your tastes as a couple. For inspiration, visit our Who Are You section to get a sense of your bridal style, then browse through our wedding flower and cake galleries to preview the latest stunning wedding looks.

2. Putting Together Your Guest List

What's a party without the guests? Remember that many of your guests will have a spouse or significant other and will count for two people. Also keep in mind that the more people you invite, the more expensive your wedding will be. Our convenient Guest List Manager will help you keep track of everyone.

One smart planning tip is to have a "must-have" A-list, and a "would-like-to-include" B-list, and mail your invitations early. If A-list guests can't make it, you can then mail out invitations to B-list guests and they won't feel like last minute additions. If you're still staying up late worrying about whom to invite, read Peggy Post's expert etiquette advice.

3. Your Budget

The fact is, all that wedding glamour and glitter costs money, and setting a realistic wedding budget now is going to save you from a nasty shock on your wedding day. So take out that calculator, call up your folks and decide on a realistic budget. Before you start number crunching, set your priorities. Are your guests more important, or the location? Once you know what elements you can't live without, you'll have a much clearer idea of how to allocate your money. Then use our Budget Tool to give you an estimate of how much to spend on each category.

4. Start Your Planning Notebook

Remember, pictures tell a thousand words. The best gift you can give yourself is a Polaroid camera with plenty of film. You never know what item may inspire you for flowers, favors or any other wedding accessories.

Also purchase a three ring binder, dividers and plastic business card holders to create a planning notebook. We suggest including the following sections: Vendor Contact Information, Guests List, Bridal Ensemble, Bridesmaids' Attire, Beauty, Groomsmen's Attire, Ceremony, Reception, Invitations and Stationery, Menus and Beverages, Flowers and Décor, Guest Favors and Gifts, Rentals, Music and Entertainment, Photo and Video, Transportation and Parking, Miscellaneous, Checklists and Schedules, Budget/Payment Schedules, Invoices/Receipts, Out-Of-Town Information and Notes. Don't forget an empty folder for photos and magazine clippings. For more help getting organized, look over our perfect planning checklists.

5. Select Your Date

Do you envision a thick blanket of snow outside as you snuggle close to your new husband on the way to the reception? Or a warm summer's night as you dance with your groom under the stars? Decide what time of year you want to get married and select two tentative wedding dates -- it's important to have a backup in case your first choice isn't available. Don't forget to check your city calendar to make sure there's not a holiday or major sporting event on your desired date - otherwise you and your guests may be competing with fans for scarce, or more expensive, hotel rooms and services.

6. Choose Your Ceremony & Reception Location

Wineries, zoos, botanical gardens -- let your imagination run wild when selecting a wedding location. But remember, the best spot may be one that is nearby and can accommodate your guest count. You'll want to find out how many events each site hosts per day, and whether there are hidden fees and charges. Visit our step-by-step guide to finding reception locations for a complete list of questions to ask, and then search our Local Vendor Directory for a list of ceremony and reception sites in your area.

7. Select Your Wedding Party

She's been your best friend since kindergarten; it's a no-brainer that you want her to stand up with you on your big day. But what about everybody else? Ask valued friends or family to do a reading, be an usher or oversee your guest book/escort card table. The point is, don't worry, there is a role to play for everyone, and a way out of any awkward situation.

8. Shop For the Dress

View over 20,000 photos of beautiful gowns and accessories in our fashion section to find the dress that takes your breath away. Then browse our Local Vendor Directory for a bridal salon near you. Be aware that most dress shops require at least six months to order your dress. Don't forget to bring stockings, shoes, a strapless bra and a hair clip to your appointments. Also bring any tear sheets or printouts from our fashion section of those dresses you adore, so that the sales staff can get a sense of your style. And now's the time to start a fitness program and get in shape to look your best in that dream dress.

9. Book the Basics

Top wedding locations and vendors are booked as much as a year in advance, so as soon as you've agreed on the type of wedding you would like to have, use our comprehensive Local Vendor Directory and run to make your reservations in the following order: ceremony and reception locations, ceremony officiant, caterer, reception band, photographer, florist, cake designer, videographer, stationer and finally, the rental company.

Reception sites go particularly fast, but many places will allow you to put a courtesy "pencil hold" on the date for two weeks with no deposit. Finding your ideal spot isn't easy, so if a site meets 80% of your requirements, reserve it!

10. Set Up Your Registry

In this shopping frenzy, remember that your guests are going to want to buy presents for YOU. WeddingChannel.com allows you to create an online registry with gifts from all the top retailers. You'll enjoy the convenience of viewing your registry and making changes any time, day or night. And, your guests will be thrilled to have one place where they can find all your gift choices. You can also create your own wedding website to share your engagement stories, last-minute wedding details and get the word out about your registry. It's fast and easy! Simply answer a few questions, pick a pattern and we'll handle all the technical details.

Get A Little Help From Your Friends

With all the excitement ahead of you, it's important to know that WeddingChannel.com has all the ideas, advice and tools you need to make planning as simple as possible. Let our experts guide you through your wedding planning -- sign up for a FREE WeddingChannel.com membership now.

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Gentleman.. Listen up!

How NOT to propose! Guys listen up!

So I was emailed this idea for our blog today and I got a pretty good chuckle out of it, so I thought I'd share. With Christmas coming up there is going to be some proposals.. but Guys we need you to read this before you POP the question to your girlfriend. Grab your notepad..

1.) Do not propose when you don't mean it. (bad, bad idea!)
2.) Do not be too humorous. It will seem that you are not serious
about this proposal.
3.) Do not propose in front of a large crowd. You wouldn't want to embarrass her!
4.) NEVER propose over the phone or the Internet. It is the worst you can do, as it is too impersonal.
5.) At somebody else's wedding - Are you joking?
6.) By putting the ring in a helium balloon. - read this story.. Not a good idea!
7.) You Shouldn’t Propose on Valentine’s Day
Some people think this is a sweet idea, but for most, the idea is a little cliché.

If you have a few minutes go to youtube.com and search for "marriage proposals gone bad" for more ideas on what NOT to do!

Congrats and Good Luck!

Monday, December 14, 2009

Great Idea!

If you are recently engaged or in the process of planning your wedding and are like most brides. You are probably receiving about 10 calls a day asking questions about your wedding. The closer your wedding gets the more questions you will get. So to help bypass being on the phone all day repeating the same information over and over .. start a wedding website! It is great. It is becoming very popular to put your wedding website on the save-the-dates you mail out. You can get these websites for free from multiple different websites. Most common is probably www.weddingchannel.com. They are amazing, you can keep your family and friends update to what is going on with the wedding, upload pictures, let your out of town guests know where the local lodging is. Wedding websites are a terrific tool.. use it!

Friday, December 11, 2009

Christmas Proposals

Christmas Proposals in Idaho~
We are really loving the feedback we are receiving from brides- past and present - that are finding our website
useful. With the holidays coming up I was thinking there maybe some proposals in the near future! So for all those guys out there looking to ask their girlfriend the "big questions" this holiday season we have a few tips for you! We know it's stressful to make the proposal the best it can be, after all this story is going to be told over and over again. But remember take a deep breathe you will get through it and it will be amazing.
1.) First of all you, think about what your girlfriend would want. If she isn't a sports fan, then don't go with the big screen at the football game to ask.. Really think about her personality and her interests.
2.) If you get tongue tied easily, what about having a jig saw puzzle custom made?
3.)Another fun creative way, is a treasure hunt. Fun! You could do it Christmas morning and have her open one clue, which leads her to another area where another clue would be waiting for her. It's a lot of fun!
4.) Does she like to fish? What about taking her fishing and tie the engagement ring (make sure it's tied tight!) to the end of your fishing line. Tell her you have a bite, hand her your pole and have her reel it in. Once she pulls it out of the water get down on your knee.. What do you think?
5.) Another idea is to take her to the movies, a lot of the theaters will let you put a slide in before the movie starts. Creative?
6.) If we get some snow, you can go out and build a snowman with your sweetie. After the snowman is built put the ring on the stick arm, then say something to the effect "what's that on his arm" When she goes over to look at it.. get down on your knee!
7.) What about Christmas lights? When she is at work or out shopping, take the Christmas lights and spell out "Marry Me" with the lights. Don't let her see it, that night go tour the Christmas lights in your area and make your house (or whatever house you used to spell it out) the last stop.
Do you have any other great ideas to wedding proposal? Or tell us your story about how you or your husband proposed to you, we want to hear. Help out our soon-to-be grooms in the Boise area.
We want to hear from you!!

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

First words.. We're Engaged! Second words...BUDGET!

I came across this website today on how to have a fabulous reception on a budget! It had some great tips that I wanted to share with all the Boise Brides out there. Budget is very important to figure out before you start planning. Figure out who's paying for what, and how much you really have. Once you have the dollar amount for you wedding it should be broken up as follows:
*Reception - 35% (You can usually save money if you have your ceremony and reception in the same location)
*Bride & Groom attire - 10% (with groom attire alot of the tuxedo shops in Boise will offer the groom's for free if you get so many for the groomsman,fathers, etc.)
*Photographer - 10% (do your research on Boise wedding photographers- there are some great prices for amazing quality. If you are on an extremely tight budget don't just go for the lowest dollar amount; make sure you check out their galleries! After all you will be looking at these pictures forever!)
*Flowers - 6%
*Music - 5%
*Ceremony - 5%
*Videographer - 5%
*Invitations - 4% (cut down on cost by doing them yourself. Even if you aren't crafty you can purchase them blank from Walmart, shopko, Target, etc. and then just print them off-easy and cheaper!)
*Wedding cake - 3%
*Decorations - 3%
*Rental Items - 3% (If you belong to a church, check with them about borrowing them some will let you for little or no cost)
*Transportation - 2%

Here are some tips to make your Boise Wedding Reception terrific on a small budget!

~ Book Off- Season~
June through September is the peak season for most weddings, which means you’re going to have to pay more to host your wedding during these months.
~ Opt for Reception Registry~
If you are planning an informal wedding, relaxed and fun. Think about having a Reception Registry. Sort of like a pot-luck but instead you have your guests sign up for something they want to bring for dinner instead of a gift.
~Go with Local talent~
Here in the Treasure Valley we have many options for local bands. They are usually a lot cheaper than a DJ.

For more information on money saving tips go to WeddingChannel.com




Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Wedding Myths!

My sister in law and myself have recently started a wedding site for local brides. You see Jaime married my brother this past August and now I am engaged. Between the two weddings we have spent hours and hours researching and google-ing wedding information. We ran into the problem that there was only one wedding website for our local brides here in Boise. And to get on that website it was a nice chunk of change. Because of the cost a lot of vendors and venues were not on there. So we thought we can't be the only ones spending hours searching.. Lets create our own website to help out other local brides. So we have officially launched the website. It is going to be a constant work in progress. However our goal is to be the website for all vendors and brides to go to! There is no cost for you to be listed on our website so if you are interested please don't hesitate!

While doing all the "google-ing" we have come across some pretty interesting information! One thing that has specifically caught my attention, being a bride-to-be myself were all the myths ans superstitions surrounding wedding days.
Just thought I'd share...

1.) I've always heard this but never knew what it all meant..
The bride is supposed to wear

Something new,
Something borrowed,
And a sixpence in the shoe.

The something old should belong to a happily married woman
to insure happiness.
However, not a handkerchief that was used in her wedding.
That is considered bad luck! (and kind of disgusting!)
The something new is a piece of apparel.
The something borrowed was traditionally a gold object to
insure fortune and wealth.
The something blue symbolizes the heavens and true love.

2.) Concerning rain on the day of the wedding, some say that many tears will be shed in the marriage, while others are thrilled as the occurrence of rain on a wedding day is considered to bring good luck and blessings to the lucky couple. Some even place a statue of the Virgin Mary in the windowsill to ward away rain and bad luck, while others may hang a rosary from the window or clothes line to insure a rain free wedding day. A rainy wedding day also foretells of many children to be born to the wedding couple.

3.) It is good luck for the bride to enter the church of her wedding on her right foot.

4.) The wedding ring is considered sacred and should not be lent to others to try on, this is sure to bring back luck and even the possibility of unfaithfulness. If ever the wedding rings are removed by a bride it must be the groom who returns them to her fingers to continue the good luck. (Good to KNOW!)

5.) Sign your married name before your wedding
It is considered bad luck for the bride to sign her married name before the wedding as it tempts fate. For the same reason, the bride should avoid wearing her entire bridal outfit (wedding dress, bridal veil, shoes and jewelry) prior to her wedding day.

I will be sure to post more in the future because the list goes on and on. If you are a bride in the Boise area, please check out our website www.treasurevalleybrides.com