SimplySavannahEvents

Updated website and blog!

2012-02-21T20:09:00.001-05:00

It's official!! I have gone back to wordpress and transferred everything over there! I now have my website at my domain with the blog built in! Everyone please go there from now on. Thank you!!

www.simplysavannahevents.com

{Inspiration Board} Green

2012-02-16T18:11:00.003-05:00

When I think of Layla's company I think of green. Not just because her colors on her site are green but because her vision is to have green weddings. She loves incorporating anything she can do to help the environment while throwing an amazing wedding, from having the ceremony & the reception in the same location to cut down on transportation costs, to having recycling bins at the reception. Anyway, I figured, how fun would it be to make Layla an inspiration board using green, aren't the bird cake toppers adorable!??! Hope you enjoy! Also when you have a chance scroll down and click on my new logo over on the right hand navigation bar on Layla's blog to visit my personal blog!

source: <dress>,<place holder>,<bird cake topper>,<cookies>,<table decor>,<dessert table,<tags>

Happy Valentine's Day

2012-02-14T08:28:00.001-05:00

♥ ♥ Three years ago I went on the BEST 1st date ever, since I met my wonderful husband Christopher Mayville..... awwwww cheesey I know. But seriously we had so much fun on our 1st date. I even met his crazy aunts & uncles on that date. Yep, I fit right in and they all felt like home. Chris' family is so welcoming, they have the biggest hearts even if his mom doesn't want to admit it and his dad is a big teddy bear. Over the past 3 years I have been able to meet many of his friends and family and he has met some of mine too. I'm so thankful that I said yes to going on a date with some stranger who was in the Army and on okcupid.com, and I'm also so thankful that he said yes to marrying me with all my "baggage". Happy Valentines to everyone out there and remember to keep your heart OPEN. ♥ ♥

Read more about our story here: my intimate savannah wedding

My hubby's favorite new treat is homemade chocolate marshmallows made by a mother daughter team in Savannah.

Don't they look delicious?!!

What are you doing for Valentine's Day? Do you have a great 1st date story to share?

Or maybe how you and your husband met? Share!!

Savannah Magazine Behind the Veil 2012

2012-02-13T18:45:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I had a BLAST mingling with some of Savannah's finest Wedding Professionals at Savannah Magazine Behind the Veil. I did not have a booth at the event since I really wanted to attend the brunch before the doors opened to the bridal show and hear Wedding Guru, Christopher Confero speak! Boy was it worth it!! He was so inspiring and FUN!

The VIP Champagne Brunch was held at the Avia Hotel before the bridal event started.
Our menu including this amazing selection:
Savannah Honey Bee Roasted Pea, Asher Blue Cheese, Candied Pecans, Atisan Lettuce, Blood Orange Vinaigrette
Poached Free Range Chicken Breast, Wild Mushrooms, Caramelized Shallots filled Crepes, with Asparagus
Sorbet with Fresh Berries
Flower centerpieces were created by Garden on the Square

Here is what I took from Christopher Confero:

Christopher is from Alabama, he oozes creativity, personality, and has a list of accomplishments. He is a contributor to Alabama Magazine and his work has been featured in several issues of Birmingham Home & Garden magazine.

He spoke about how to utilize trends within your wedding style:

Treat your 150 guests like royalty rather than 250 like paupers.
QUALITY is better than quantity
Don't invited people who you haven't seen in over 2 years
Make your wedding couple specific - what you like, not what your mom or friends or Martha Stewart Magazine likes.
Your save-the-dates are the first impression you will give your guests about your wedding so make it count.
Try not to incorporate EVERY popular wedding trend, choose what makes sense to you and incorporate it into your wedding decor in a non-overwhelming way.
Edit, Edit, Edit: Take out unneeded items that are burdening your budget.
Your ceremony is one area that can be cut back on, if you need to make cuts since your guest will spend the least amount of time there.
Create a space within your reception that has an interesting visual plane, have tall, short, medium centerpieces. Don't have it be all the exact same at every table, mix it up.
Make sure your wedding planner/stylist, florist, baker all know what you DON'T like since that is just as important as what you do like.

Tablescape create by Elizabeth Demos (left) & Meg Sutton (right)

I also attended the Behind the Veil Expert Lecture Panel with Elizabeth Demos {I am obsessed with her work, seriously!}, Jade + Matthews Photography, Raymond Anaya of Tybee Island Wedding Chapel, and Equinox Jazz.

Some key points I felt were super important:

Remember to EXPERIENCE your wedding day!! Don't have the "Bridal Blur"
Relax, roll with it, and have fun with your friends and family!
If you are having a wedding with 100+ guests in Savannah hire your vendors 12 months out, including ME (wink, wink).

CHOOSE GREEN

2012-02-13T08:22:00.000-05:00

CHOOSE GREEN: There are so many fun and unique ideas out there for designing a wonderful wedding or event that won’t create a huge carbon imprint on our world, while still being organic and beautiful. A green event is simply a way in which you can make choices that limit the negative impact to the planet. A green event doesn’t have to mean compromising your dream or having no style. Whether you want to incorporate local wines, serve a completely organic menu, wear an organic wedding dress, use Eco-friendly invitations, or photographers, there are many perfect options for you.

Does my event need to be 100% green?

That is up to you! It can be a little or a lot, because every aspect of your event can be greener.

Each one of the 2.5 million weddings this year in the United States will produce an average of 62 tons of carbon dioxide and 400-600 lbs of garbage. That's a lot of waste! If every engaged couple made just one small green choice, which would be 2.5 million greener choices a year and that is an amazing impact!

- According to the Green Bride Guide's research

Sharing the love of green on my blog at: http://simplysavannahevents.blogspot.com/p/green.html

GREEN IDEAS:

☛ Donate your flowers: Hospice Savannah, St. Joseph's/Candler Hospital, Memorial University Medical Center, Ronald Mc Donald House of Savannah, Buckingham South in Savannah- Retirement Community, Union Mission Inc. Savannah, GA-shelter for men women and families

☛ Support local companies for your guest favors or welcome baskets (see my unique gift ideas on my blog at: http://simplysavannahevents.blogspot.com/p/vendors.html )

☛ Support Etsy vendors, the world's most vibrant handmade marketplace – ask me about my list of unique wedding artists including: refurbished ties and bow ties, cake toppers, banners, accessories, and more

☛ Hire local Savannah recycling company, Footprint to set up and pick up your recycling at your event

☛ Don’t give guests favors, instead donate the money to your charity of choice:

https://www.idofoundation.org/

https://www.justgive.org

http://www.globalgiving.org/

http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/

http://www.redcross.org/

Susan G. Komen for the Cure®

☛ Green favors – small plants if they live locally or infused seed favors that can be planted, biodegradable confetti, 100% latex balloons that are biodegradable vs. plastic balloons (bad for the ocean & ocean animals), canvas totes, bamboo, organic chocolate, and I have more!

☛ Have your ceremony and reception at the same location to cut on transportation

☛ Choose a Green Certified Reception or Botanical Garden

Richmond Hill City Center

Savannah Botanical Garden

Bamboo Farm & Coastal Garden

Hunter Cattle Co.

☛ Use Eco-friendly invitations, or just have the save-the-dates be a post card to cut on postage and paper

☛ Choose an organic caterer like Thrive

☛ Choose an Eco-friendly florist: Urban Poppy or A to Zinnias

☛ Have Eco-friendly gift registry items: even Target has great Eco-friendly options now or shop these online stores: http://www.plateswithpurpose.com/ or http://www.dwellsmart.com/ or http://www.branchhome.com/

☛ Use horse drawn carriages or pedi cabs to move your bridal party from one location to the next, if near by

I'll keep them coming don't worry! So what GREEN choices will you make for your wedding?

{Pin it Friday} Free Printable Valentine's Day Cupcake Flags

2012-02-10T08:36:00.002-05:00

Source: julieannart.com via Layla on Pinterest

{Bright Idea Thursday} Groom's Cake

2012-02-09T14:15:00.001-05:00

Wheredo you have the grooms cake? What's the history of the grooms cake?

GOOD QUESTIONS! Here are some resources for you to read and help make your decision. My husband and I had such a small wedding we did not even have a rehearsal dinner and decided to just have 1 small cake that we each got to choose the flavors for "our" layer, but since I love chocolate we actually went with a little non-traditional look and had chocolate frosting. We also probably won the messiest cake cutting award!

Photos by Nicki Bursae Photography

Traditionally,groom's cakes were served at the wedding. Years ago, you could only get awedding cake in one flavor. To give guests options, brides (initially in the USSouth) introduced a second cake. The bride choose the wedding cake flavor, andthe groom chose a different flavor for the second cake (hence "groom'scake"). Now, in most wedding cakes you can get each layer as a separateflavor, basically making the grooms cake more of a tradition than a functional componentof a wedding. Herein the south, most people have the grooms cake at the reception, not therehearsal dinner. http://answers.yahoo.com

Along-standing tradition in the southern United States, a groom's cake is a giftfrom the bride to the groom. Think back to a scene in "SteelMagnolias" where all the women are having a discussion about a red andgray cake in the shape of an armadillo. That armadillo was the groom's cakeShelby was planning to give her husband-to-be. (Probably one of my favorite movies, and I STILL cry at the end!) Agroom's cake is typically smaller than the couple's wedding cake, one layeronly, and is decorated to reflect a particular hobby or interest of the groom.or example, a hockey fan's groom's cake may be made in the shape and color of ahockey puck. The groom who enjoys shooting hoops could have a groom's cakeresembling a basketball. If the groom likes to strum a few tunes from time totime, then a guitar groom's cake is perfect.

Thehistory of a groom's cake goes like this. The groom's cake was not to be served to the guests while atthe wedding reception, but rather it was to be sliced up, placed into packagesand given to them as favors when they departed. Single women at the weddingwould take their pieces of cake home and sleep with it under their pillows inhopes of dreaming of their future husbands. www.online-weddings.com

"Where we are having our rehearsal dinner they don't allow outside food, and I was toldthat you have the grooms cake at the rehearsal dinner. So does that mean youhave the grooms cake at the reception along with the actual wedding cake"?

Evenif the rehearsal dinner location doesn't allow food, they may allow a cake, soask (they often charge a "cake cutting fee"). You can honor him with something humorous like a beer keg, teddybear, sports car, cowboy boots, cigar, football or a computer. Go online toview samples, ask his friends for suggestions, and check with your baker forphotos of previous work.

The groom's cake can be served at the rehearsal dinneror at the wedding reception. Because the rehearsaldinner is hosted by the groom's family, and involves a smaller number ofguests, this would be a good time to serve the groom's cake. www.weddingvendors.com

Even though the groom’s cake is usually displayedalongside the wedding cake at the reception, I see no reason why you shouldn’thave it at the rehearsal dinner. It can be a wonderful surprise for yourfiancé, especially if it reflects an interest or a hobby www.bridalguide.com

Here are some more ideas for your designs. Carrie of Two Cakes does an amazing job!!

Texas Rangers Grooms

Cake by Two Cakes, Photos by Teresa ofMemories N More

North Carolina Grooms Cake by Two Cakes, Photos by Teresa of Memories N More

I wish we had this cake for our wedding since I'm originally from Massachusetts and a big fan of the Red Sox!

Red Sox Groom's Cake

Nikon Grooms Cake

{Organic Wednesday} Mirage Lip Gloss

2012-02-08T09:48:00.002-05:00

On Sunday and Monday we had a blast working on styling for a Victorian Styled Shoot along with a handful of talented wedding professionals. More details to come on that adventure, but my exciting news to share with you today for {Organic Wednesday} is this new all natural lip gloss. Gwen of Pretty Woman Day Spa did the make up for our model and used their mineral based oil free make up and WOW so beautiful!! Plus it didn't feel caked on and lasted for the entire shoot without any retouches!! Gwen used her new mirage lip gloss that they just launched and are now selling it at the spa located at 23 Plantation Park Dr., Suite 302, Bluffton, SC 29910. The lip gloss has a mirror on the side of it and it even lights up! So cool.
This is definitely on my wish list!

If you missed my blog post about the Pretty Woman Day Spa click here to read more

Simply Savannah Events: Guest Post on Soundtrack to I Do

2012-02-07T08:30:00.001-05:00

Today I have a guest post on a fellow TWIPS page, Soundtrack to I Do. Colleen's blog is a great resource for finding musical inspiration to choreograph your special moments. Head over to my post to read about my favorite 1st Dance Songs.
www.soundtracktoido.com

{Pin it Friday} HOT Shoes

2012-02-03T07:36:00.001-05:00

Source: ruffledblog.com via Layla on Pinterest

Skirt Savannah Magazine February 2012 Issue

2012-02-02T11:01:00.001-05:00

I am still in amazement, you have no idea how fun and exciting this is. Skirt magazine came over to The Wedding Studios and took a lot of pictures of me posing in different areas of the space using the beautiful light that was coming thru the windows that day. It was REALLY weird having pictures taken of of me and posing for that long! The girls from Skirt were so nice and fun to hang out with that it helped me feel more comfortable.Online version of this magazine issue is live http://savannah.skirt.com/247/meet-layla-mayville

Meet Layla Mayville, the owner of event planning Simply Savannah Events. She specializes in intimate coordinating and Eco-friendly ideas with Lowcountry charm and a vintage twist.
My desk: full of inspiration
Favorite Restaurant: Green Truck Pub
Words I live by: "Keep Calm and Carry On"
My muse: unique handmade and re-purposed details
Favorite shoes: my sparkly TOMS
Where I shop locally: TailsSpin, Nourish, Savannah Bee Co.
My workout: Zumba
Favorite Flower: sunflowers
Zodiac sign: ambitious Capricorn
Dream vacation: Tuscany
My pets: 3 cats: TY, Willow, and Sassy, and my dog, Missy
Guilty pleasure: Lake Champlain Chocolates from Vermont
Where I get my coffee: Ogeechee Rive Coffee Co.
3 People I want at my dream dinner: Martha Stewart, Sarah McLachlan and my late father.

{Bright Idea Thursday} The Tea Room Savannah

2012-02-02T07:57:00.001-05:00

I had the most wonderful time at The Tea Room Savannah with Ginny Payne of Studio GAP Photography recently and can't believe I haven't been there before!! We had a delicious meal and excellent tea. You may not know this, but I love tea and love London, British, Girly Tea Parties, English themes, British accents, Hugh Grant; I think you get the picture!! Anyways, after going out for a nice girls date, I thought this would be an amazing bridal luncheon or bridal shower location. You must stop by and see their shop too, it's filled with tea cups, silverware, gifts, cards, and loose tea that you can buy. Here is more information and if you haven't read my post about brunch parties click here.

SPECIAL EVENTS and PRIVATE PARTIES

located in their library, maximum seating (26)

Hours of Service:
Sat. 10am-5pm
lunch 11:30am-4pm
afternoon tea 2:30-4pm

7 EAST BROUGHTON STREET
SAVANNAH, GEORGIA 31401
912-239-9690
http://savannahtearoom.com/
http://www.facebook.com/SavannahTeaRoom

{Organic Wednesday} Way Out Wax

2012-02-01T07:49:00.000-05:00

Way Out Wax was founded in 1992 with a vision to produce hand-crafted works of art utilizing socially and environmentally responsible business practices. They firmly believe in the "Triple Bottom Line" (People, Planet...then, Profit).

APPROACH
They believe that healing botanical essences should be accessible and incorporated into every aspect of daily life. They're committed to producing high-quality, truly healthy products with integrity—products that represent the powerful connection between individuals and the environment.

Their wax is 100% natural and biodegradable. They use 100% soy wax in all of the container candles. Their scents come from 100% pure essential oils without any dyes or synthetic fragrance. None of their products contain additives. All of their products are handcrafted in Vermont.

FREE SHIPPING
for online orders over $100!

Keep bugs away the all-natural way! Their three blends utilize Mother Nature's best defenses (pure plant essences) to effectively deter insects in a way that's safe for you and the environment. These 100% GMO-free soy wax candles and water-based sprays were created with the same integrity as all of their other products: Clean, Pure & Natural. Now you can enjoy effective insect control without compromise!

Non-Scents Collection knows how to act accordingly. These finely crafted, hand-poured candles are made with their high-quality, long-burning wax blends without essential oils.

http://www.wayoutwax.com/weddings.html

If you're planning a special event, they can help!
Are you looking for the perfect addition to the centerpiece for your wedding reception?
Unsure of how to give a unique and meaningful gift to your guests?
Send friends and family home with a memorable keepsake!

Elegant candlelight will never go out of style and with a minimum order of 150 candles, you can create a personalized label to celebrate your special event. Whether you're looking for large freestanding pillars or votive candles for your ceremony or celebration, let Way Out Wax shed some light on your gathering.

www.wayoutwax.com
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{Inspiration Board} Whimsical!

2012-01-31T17:13:00.001-05:00

Today is one of those days where I have bitten off way more than I can chew. But that's life, right? So today's inspiration board is short but really fun and whimsical! I have to make a poster of a celebrity for one of my graphic design classes & a lot of my ideas had to do with creating a whimsical almost fairy like scene. This assignment inspired me to make the guest post for Layla this week a whimsical fairy-like wedding inspiration! Since whimsical wedding inspiration is all over Pinterest right now, I only allowed myself to use 1 picture from there so that you all aren't seeing the same pictures over and over again & instead searched Etsy for some creative & unique finds! I hope you enjoy! :) And Thank you Layla for letting me take over to share some wedding inspiration!

{Vendor Spotlight} Dryden Custom Design

2012-01-30T11:19:00.002-05:00

Recently I sat down and chatted with a new local designer, Beth Dryden, who owns a boutique design house offering custom logo design, business card design, identity design, custom invitations, styling & art direction and more. She also has Dryden's Loft, a shop on Etsy where you can purchase handmade journals, business card holders, ink prints and also request custom items such as photo books, journals, ink prints with your favorite quote and more. What intrigued me about Beth's work is her use of textures, interesting fonts, and completely personalized invitation suites.

Hold it. Feel it. Pin it up. Twirl it. Pass it out. Write on it. Stick it on your moving vehicle. Mail it out.

About her Custom Invitation Design (Wedding Suites, Party & Event Invites, etc.)
If you are looking for unique and custom invitations, she can design a custom experience that will set the tone for your party, event or wedding. She can design a whole Invitation Suite or parts of it, or just invitations by themselves. To design these gems with unique touches and attention to detail she likes to only do 50 or less per event. If your event requires more and you want that custom touch please contact her for further information.

Her newest project seen below is one of my favorites!!! Beth describes, "My clients were looking to get married with just a few close friends and family. It was to be held in a square in Savannah, GA underneath a gazebo. The bride to be was looking for a fun, vintage inspired "we are finally getting married" feel with a cantaloupe and pistachio color scheme. She also requested that a "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil" DVD be sent along with the invites to give her guests an insight into the fabulous city". Just look at the fab details that were put into the design: cigar boxes, suede tabs, and gift tags!!

See more of Beth's work here:

www.bethdryden.com

http://www.etsy.com/shop/DrydensLoft

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Average Wedding Costs

2012-01-29T15:54:00.001-05:00

Do you want to know averages for Wedding Costs??

$ COSTS $ for weddings in or around Savannah, GA

Did you know that the average couple spends between $18,862 and $31,436 on their wedding! This total is based on the average number of guests estimated between 124 and 138. A single guest could add between $173 and $211 to the overall cost of your wedding.
~
Granted not every wedding is going to have that many guests, plus you may not choose to have all these options at your wedding, or you may have friends/connections/family who can also be hired to supplement some of these costs. I tend to not like "averages" but we are asked A LOT about budget and I am in the process of updating our personalized wedding budget file, but at least this gives you a range. {our 2013 pricing will be changing to reflect experience, assistant(s) costs, and competitive pricing} Another very important consideration before reading all these pricing is to think about QUALITY vs. CHEAPER. Sometimes "you get what you pay for"! Plus if you are DIY (doing it yourself)...think about TIME vs. MONEY do you want to put the time into making favors or buy them from an etsy vendor or have your wedding coordinator make them?

Another great blog post about wedding costs is here by Lauren Grove:

http://everylastdetailblog.com/2012/01/26/why-do-weddings-cost-so-much

Find out what your average cost of weddings in your area is by clicking on this link.

On average*, couples that marry in or around Savannah, GA should expect to pay:

“Just Getting Started” Planner ~ between $680 and $1,812+

Day of Coordinator ~ between $653 and $1,740+

Month of Coordinator ~ between $1,006 and $2,682+

Full Wedding Planner ~ between $1,925 and $5,132+

A la Carte Services from a Planner ~ between $868 and $2,314+

Wedding Photographer ~ between $1,266 and $3,376+ (not including prints, albums, discs)

Wedding Videographer ~ between $821 and $2,188+

DJ ~ between $554 and $1,478+

Live Band ~ between $1297 and $3,458+

Musician/s, Soloist, or Ensemble ~ between $849 and $2,264+

Venue & Catering ~ between $7,019 and $11,698+

Ceremony Accessories - between $152 and $406+

(Includes Aisle Runner, Ring Pillow or Box, Unity Candle, etc. but not flowers or decorations.)

Ceremony Location - between $694 and $1,850+

Ceremony Officiator - between $162 and $432+ (Includes Justice of the Peace, Officiant, Ordained Friend, Family Member Pastor, Minister, Rabbi, or Priest.)

Hotel Room for After Reception - between $208 and $554+

Reception Accessories - between $150 and and $400+ (Includes Toasting Flutes, Wedding Cake Topper and Serving Set, etc. but not flowers or decorations.)

Reception Bar Service - between $1,634 and $4,358+

Reception Food Service - between $3,214 and $8,570+

Reception Location - between $1,979 and $5,278+

Reception Rentals - between $1,026 and $2,736+ (Tent, Table, Chairs, Etc.)

Rehearsal Dinner - between $641 and $1,708+

Wedding Cake - between $286 and $762+

Flowers & Decorations ~ between $1,161 and $3,096 total

Boutonnière or Corsages - between $102 and $272+

Bridal Bouquet - between $106 and $282+

Bridesmaid Bouquets - between $137 and $364+

Ceremony Decorations - between $179 and $476+

Ceremony Flower Arrangements - between $227 and $604+

Flower Girl Flowers - between $65 and $174+

Flower Petals - between $67 and $178+

Reception Decorations - between $218 and $582+

Reception Flower Arrangements - between $264 and $704+

Reception Table Centerpieces - between $278 and $742+

Transportation ~ between $259 and $690 total

Limo Rental - between $362 and $966+

Other Travel - between $313 and $834+

Travel for Guests - between $533 and $888+

Attire & Accessories ~ between $1,073 and $2,702 total

Bride Accessories - between $107 and $286+

(Includes Tiara, Combs, Hair Pins, Garter, Shoes, etc. but not Jewelry.)

Groom Accessories - between $83 and $220+

(Includes Cuff links, Cummerbund, Tie, Pocket Square, Shoes, etc. but not Jewelry)

Suit (purchased For Groom Only) - between $221 and $588+

Suit (rented For Groom Only) - between $107 and $286+

Tuxedo (purchased For Groom Only) - between $380 and $1,012+

Tuxedo (rented For Groom Only) - between $101 and $268

Veil - between $89 and $236+

Wedding Dress - between $784 and $2090+

Wedding Dress Preservation - between $185 and $494+

Beauty, Health & Spa ~ between $90 and $240 total (**For single individual only**)

Hair Service - between $56 and $150+

Makeup Service - between $48 and $128+

Manicure & Pedicure - between $38 and $100+

Gifts & Favors ~ between $439 and $1,314 total

Gift/s for All Attendants - between $142 and $378+

Gift/s for Parents - between $107 and $284+

Gift/s for the Bride - between $146 and $388+

Gift/s for the Groom - between $136 and $362+

Wedding Favors - between $189 and $504++

Tips (for all services) – between $270 and $450

Invitations ~ between $524 and $1,398 total

Ceremony Programs - between $85 and $226+

Engagement Announcements – between $116 and $308+

Guest Book - between $46 and $122+

Invitations & Reply Cards - between $197 and $524+

Reception Menus - between $92 and $244+

Save the Date Cards - between $96 and $256+

Table or Place Cards - between $65 and $172+

Thank You Cards - between $73 and $194+

Postage – between $65 and $174+

Jewelry ~ between $2,983 and $7,954 total

Earrings - between $99 and $264+

Engagement Ring - between $2,618 and $6,982+

Necklace - between $107 and $284

Other Jewelry - between $212 and $566+

Wedding Bands- between $1,407 and $3,752+

*Based on information from www.costofwedding.com

{Pin It Friday} Boston Red Sox Engagement Session

2012-01-27T09:19:00.000-05:00

Source: apaperproposal.com via Layla on Pinterest

One of my latest pins onto Pinterest came from A Paper Proposal's blog and the photo was taken by Deborah Zoe Photo. Many of you know I'm originally from Massachusetts, but you may not know that I went to school in Downtown Boston for my Masters Degree. I lived in walking distance to Fenway Park and went to 3 games that year!! When I saw this picture, as I was blog surfing, it made me a little nostalgic and really miss Boston. My favorite Red Sox player is #34 David Ortiz aka Big Papi!! If you have time click on the link to see more of this cute engagement session. What a great keepsake! Go Sox!!

{Inspiration Board} Fuchsia & Olive Green

2012-01-24T21:00:00.002-05:00

I've been a little MIA lately doing wedding inspiration boards for Laylasince I've been in the process of learning how to use Photoshop! But now that I have started using it, I am back in full force ready to provide someinspiration weekly! This week, I decided to go with the color scheme of abride I helped the other day at the bridal shop. She is doing fuchsia &olive green. I *love* unusual color combos & this was no exception! P.S. How do you like the new signature?

Source: <bride & groom>, <vase>,<aisle>, <plate decor>,<cake>,
<couch>, <chevron tray>, <bridesmaids>,<decor>, <dress>, <flowers>

{Real Wedding} Simply Savannah Events Vance/Wafford Wedding

2012-01-24T09:11:00.001-05:00

Are you ready for some swagger!? This wedding we planned was filled with so much LOVE and major swagger. The bride was very involved in all the wedding details from creating the flower arrangements, invitations, and making the little Tiffany favor boxes. We were hired on as the month-of coordination and met at the Richmond Hill City Center Elegance in the Park Bridal Show. It was such a gorgeous day for an outside ceremony and then the guests were welcomed into the elegant reception ballroom with teal up-lighting and danced the night away! Everyone had a wonderful night and when guests are happy, we are happy!! Here is the list of vendors who helped make this wedding a success and more pictures of the wedding details...enjoy!

Simply Savannah Events Savannah Vance/Wafford Wedding
Ceremony & Reception Location: Richmond Hill City Center
Photographer: Studio Caesura (Erin Piepgrass)
Hair Dresser: Upscale Hair Salon
Makeup Artist: Sharita Janay
Florist: BrideWedding
Cake/Dessert: Addy B’s Cakes
Lighting: Advanced Audio/Visual Rentals
Officiant: Rev. Marilyn Odom
Reception Music: DJ Adam Kelley
Transportation: Coastal Limousine

Cultivate Workshop

2012-01-20T17:03:00.001-05:00

We are so excited to head down to Jacksonville, Florida tomorrow for the Cultivate Workshop!!! The Cultivate Workshop is designed to educate wedding professionals who are looking to grow their companies. Really looking forward to meeting other wedding professionals ESPECIALLY A FELLOW TWIP, Lauren Grove owner of http://everylastdetailblog.com she is teaching about Blogging, Social Media, and Editorial Coverage!

The very first Cultivate Workshop will be held in sunny Jacksonville, Florida.

Venue: The Aloft Jacksonville Tapestry Park

Dates: January 21st and 22nd, 2012

{Pin it Friday} Free PDF Coloring Book for Kids

2012-01-20T07:38:00.000-05:00

Source: emmalinebride.com via Layla on Pinterest

Coloring book for the kids at your wedding! So cute!
Grab your free pdf print out here: http://www.lovelyindeed.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/weddingbook.pdf

Marriage license Laws in the county of state of Georgia

2012-01-19T10:38:00.000-05:00

Marriage license Laws in the county of state of Georgia, here's what you need to know and what documents to bring with you before you apply for a marriage license. We recommend getting this legal aspect of your wedding out of the way about a month before your wedding date. BUT sometimes the wedding officiant can help with this process.

{source}

It is important that you verify all information with your local marriage license bureau or county probate court office before making any ceremony or travel plans.

Location where you obtain a marriage license:

Chatham County Probate Court
133 Montgomery Street
Savannah, GA 31410
(912) 652-7265
8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. / M - F
Closed for holidays Observed by Chatham County Court

Requirements to Get a Marriage License in Chatham County:

Residency Requirement:

If one of the parties is a resident of Georgia, the license can be issued in any county.

If neither party is a resident of Georgia, the license must be issued in the county in which the marriage ceremony is to be performed.

Application:

A marriage license is issued based upon a written application made by the applicants, verified by oath of the applicants.

Legal Requirements:

1. The parties must be of sound mind, must have no living spouse from an undissolved prior marriage.

2. Persons related by blood or marriage, falling within the following relationships may not be married in Georgia:

father and daughter or stepdaughter
mother and son or stepson
brother and sister of the whole blood or half blood
grandparent and grandchild
aunt and nephew
uncle and niece

Identification Requirement:

ONE valid forms of id such as drivers license, birth certificate, U. S. passport, Armed Forces ID card, or Resident Alien ID card. Applicants will also be asked to fill out a brief form.

Previous Marriage:

If divorced within six months, you will need to show a copy of your divorce decree.

Some counties require a final divorce decree no matter how long you have been divorced. You can obtain a copy of your final divorce decree from the Superior Court in the county in which you filed for divorce.

Waiting Period:

There is no waiting period for getting married in Georgia.

Cost for Marriage License Applications:

$66 cash or check

Premarital Education:

Under Georgia Law, a man and woman who present to the court at the time of making application a certificate of completion of a qualifying premarital education program shall not be assessed a marriage license fee. The premarital education shall include at least six hours of instruction involving marital issues, which may include but not be limited to conflict management, communication skills, financial responsibilities, child and parenting responsibilities, and extended family roles. The premarital education shall be completed within 12 months prior to the application for a marriage license and the couple shall undergo the premarital education together. The premarital education shall be performed by:

(1) A professional counselor, social worker, or marriage and family therapist who is licensed pursuant to Chapter 10A of Title 43;

(2) A psychiatrist who is licensed as a physician pursuant to Chapter 34 of Title 43;

(3) A psychologist who is licensed pursuant to Chapter 39 of Title 43; or

(4) An active member of the clergy when in the course of his or her service as clergy or his or her designee, including retired clergy, provided that a designee is trained and skilled in premarital education.

Cobb County offers a free Marital Workshop called Focus On Forever. It is a skill-based non-religious workshop designed to address issues concerning communication and listening skills, anger management, and financial planning. Contact the Cobb County Superior Court for more information.

By state law, counties in Georgia now charge more for a marriage license if you do not show certification of a premarital education program.

Other Tests:

As of July 1, 2003, blood tests are no longer required in Georgia.

Surname:

The applicants must designate on the application the legal surname that will be used after the marriage. An applicant may choose his or her given surname or his or her surname as changed by order of the superior court, the surname from a previous marriage, the spouse's surname, or a combination of the spouse's surname and the applicant's given or changed surname or surname from a previous marriage.

Common-Law Marriages:

No. However, common-law marriages will be recognized in Georgia if it was created before January 1, 1997.

Proxy Marriages:

No.

Under 18:

You must be at least 16 years of age in order to obtain a license in Georgia. If you are 16 or 17 years of age, both parents and legal guardians must give their consent in person unless his/her rights have been terminated by an Order of a court.

Cousin Marriages:

Yes.

Same Sex Marriages:

No. In November, 2004, voters passed a constitutional amendment banning same sex marriage. More Information

Officiants:

Licensed or ordained ministers, clergymen, or pastors of recognized religious societies, and justices of the peace.

Copy of Certificate of Marriage:

Vital Records
2600 Skyland Drive NE
Atlanta, GA 30319-3640
Phone: (404) 679-4701

It is important that you verify all information with your local marriage license bureau or county probate court office before making any wedding or travel plans.

Please Note: State and county marriage license requirements often change. The above information is for guidance only and should not be regarded as legal advice.

http://usmarriagelaws.com/search/united_states/georgia/marriage_licenses/chatham_county_probate.shtml

CHOOSE GREEN

2012-01-19T08:23:00.000-05:00

Does my event need to be 100% green?

That is up to you! It can be a little or a lot, because every aspect of your event can be greener.

- According to the Green Bride Guide's research

Sharing the love of green on my blog at: http://simplysavannahevents.blogspot.com/p/green.html

GREEN IDEAS:

☛ Support local companies for your guest favors or welcome baskets (see my unique gift ideas on my blog at: http://simplysavannahevents.blogspot.com/p/vendors.html )

☛ Hire local Savannah recycling company, Footprint to set up and pick up your recycling at your event

☛ Don’t give guests favors, instead donate the money to your charity of choice:

https://www.idofoundation.org/

https://www.justgive.org

http://www.globalgiving.org/

http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/

http://www.redcross.org/

Susan G. Komen for the Cure®

☛ Have your ceremony and reception at the same location to cut on transportation

☛ Choose a Green Certified Reception or Botanical Garden

Richmond Hill City Center

Savannah Botanical Garden

Bamboo Farm & Coastal Garden

Hunter Cattle Co.

☛ Use Eco-friendly invitations, or just have the save-the-dates be a post card to cut on postage and paper

☛ Choose an organic caterer like Thrive

☛ Choose an Eco-friendly florist: Urban Poppy or A to Zinnias

☛ Use horse drawn carriages or pedi cabs to move your bridal party from one location to the next, if near by

I'll keep them coming don't worry! So what GREEN choices will you make for your wedding?

{Bright Idea Thursday} Something Blue

2012-01-19T05:19:00.000-05:00

Something old, something new

Something borrowed, something blue

And a silver sixpence in her shoe.

This bride sewed her wedding date into the hem of her dress with blue thread (the perfect something blue!)

{source}
Please go to my new blog and website to read this post......
http://simplysavannahevents.com/bright-idea-thursday-something-blue/

Simply Savannah Events: Guest Post on A Love Thing

2012-01-18T09:05:00.002-05:00

Drums please! I was featured on a mid-west blog today! A Love Thing is a very new blog that is filled with amazing images and inspiration! Whitney Furst is the Editor and Owner of A Love Thing and describes herself as country girl from Wisconsin who wanted to create a blog that has more of a visual approach with images from vendors to inspire brides who are looking to brand their wedding day and who are looking for their top vendors. Come on over to her blog!! My featured post:
http://alovethingblog.com/blog/2012/1/18/wedding-plannersimply-savannah-events.html

Happy Birthday To Me - My Wish List

2012-01-16T16:24:00.001-05:00

"If I had a million dollars" and could buy everything I wanted on my wish list for a birthday shopping spree this is what I would buy-AND MORE! I'm such a girl and of course have purses, jewelry, and shoes! Plus I would go to World Market, Anthropologie, Nadeau furniture store in Savannah, Savannah Bee Company, Ella's in Richmond Hill, oh my gosh all my favorite stores!! But in reality I'm turning 33 years old today and happy to be healthy, surrounded by people who support me, love me and encourage me, happily married to my wonderful husband, and have a house over our heads. <3

Wish List Source:
{keep-calm-and-carry-on-canvas-tote} {crosstown-bag-in-yellow-chevron} {reversible-tote-bag}
{papillon-white-braid-necklace} {lime-green-tape} {stella & dot jewelry}

{more TOMS shoes}

{marimekko shoes}

The Book List:

~A Practical Wedding: Creative Ideas for Planning a Beautiful, Affordable, and Meaningful Celebration

~The Seven Levels of Communication: Go From Relationships to Referrals

~The Book of Awesome

~Painted Pages: Fueling Creativity with Sketchbooks and Mixed Media

~Sarah's Key

~How to Open & Operate a Financially Successful Wedding Consultant & Planning Business: With ~Companion CD-ROM

~Design*Sponge at Home

~51 Ways to Save Money and Still Have a Chic and Fabulous Wedding!

Our table at the Southern Girls Bridal Show

2012-01-15T18:31:00.003-05:00

Here is our vintage chic table at the Southern Girls Bridal Show. Thanks to Nicole, my assistant, for making the chevron placemats and adding to the pretty decor. You can see many of our items that we will let our clients rent on our table. There are so many fun ways to use them. See our inventory page for more details of which items are rentable. Also thanks to Carrie of Two Cakes for letting us borrow her cake demo, everyone thought it was so pretty. We had a great turn out at the expo and loved talking with everyone!! By the way, The Embassy Suites is a gorgeous hotel! Nicole also has a great post on her personal blog with some more pictures of the table. While I was running around finishing up she was able to capture some nice close up compositions with her iphone! Her blog post is here:
http://nicolerenedesign.blogspot.com/2012/01/southern-girls-bridal-expo.html

{Vendor Spotlight} Footprint Savannah Recycling

2012-01-12T15:27:00.000-05:00

Each one of the 2.5million weddings this year in the United States will produce an average of400-600 lbs of garbage. That's a lot of waste! If every engaged couple madejust one small green choice, which would be 2.5 million greener choices a yearand that is an amazing impact! - According to the Green BrideGuide's research

I would love to extendthe option of recycling at my clients events! Read about Savannah's localrecycling company, Footprint Savannah Recycling and consider adding them toyour vendor list for your events. We have created a partnership and hope morebrides & grooms hire their services. Their mission: to reduce the amount of commercial waste that ends up in our local landfills and offer conscientious companies the chance to reduce their overall environmental footprint.

What can you recycle at your event?

GlassBottles
Aluminum Cans & Foil (no food)
Steel Cans
Tin Cans

Plastic, including PET Bottles and Grocery Bags

They recycle even more items for businesses, read more on their website.

Footprint Savannah Recycling

Info@FootprintSavannah.com

912.713.3577

http://www.FootprintSavannah.com

Southern Girls Bridal Expo

2012-01-11T17:08:00.001-05:00

Getting geared up for the Southern Girls Bridal Expo January 15,2012 from 1:30pm-5pm at the Embassy Suites in Pooler. (behind Home Depot in Pooler) Savannah Airport Exit 104 from I-95 Door prize to one lucky winner of $50 off any package, plus great SIGN-ON-THE-SPOT deals!! tickets are $5 Wanna know who's going to be there:
http://www.southerngirlsshows.com/Preferred-Vendors.html

Rental Items Inventory

2012-01-10T08:11:00.000-05:00

Simply Savannah Events Rental Items Inventory is a work in progress! We are huge fans of vintage rentals, styling, and adding fun props to your event, and did you know this is very green! These items can be reused, recycled and it's cheaper for YOU, the clients. Our collection is slowly growing and if you have your heart set on something and don't see it in our collection, contact us and we will do our best to track it down for you. If you are looking for vintage rentals for your wedding event, engagement shoot, bridal or baby shower rent don't buy! At this point we only have a small collection so there is no minimum, but with hopes to grow, so there is no minimum order. We have an informal contract that requires cash payment on the day of your event. Feel free to contact us if you are interested in renting our items for your event.

If you are looking for a vintage rental company in YOUR area have a look at these companies:
Oh Lovely Day: gilded {vintage + custom rentals} http://bit.ly/zHUBpW Southern California
http://vintage-rentals.com Fullerton, California
http://www.heritageandcraft.com Benicia, California
http://www.curiosityrentals.com Charleston, South Carolina
http://www.somethingborrowedvintage.com Temple, Georgia (near Atlanta)
http://www.avintageaffairrentals.com Colorado
http://www.thevintagerentalco.com Greenwich, Connecticut
http://www.southerneventsonline.com Franklin, Tennessee
http://www.maggpievintagerentals.com Northeast Pennsylvania

Simply Savannah Events Rental Items Inventory

Original Scrabble Pieces

$.10 each piece ~ numerous available

Vintage Wooden Soda Crates
~ 14 X 8 X 3 inches

$10 ~ 1 available

Old Wooden Crate
~ 12 X 16 X 5 inches

$10 ~ 1 available

Assorted Clear Medicine Bottles

$2 each ~ 5 available

same as above

$2 each ~ 5 available

Redneck Wine Glasses

$15 ~ 2 available currently, but more available upon request

Mason Jars

$2 ~ 2 available currently, but more available upon request

Recycled Glass Jars

$2 ~ 2 currently, but more available upon request

Peanut Crate

$2 ~ 2 currently, but more available upon request

Peanut Crate same as above

$2 ~ 2 currently, but more available upon request

Cigar Boxes

$2 each ~ 8 available

Moroccan Mini Table
12 inches square

$15 ~ 1 available

Handmade Shoes Optional Sign

$5 ~ 1 currently, but more available upon request

Bride and Groom Poms

$4 for set ~ 2 currently, but more available upon request

Sneak Peek of Nicki's Baby Shower

2012-01-06T07:54:00.000-05:00

Nicki'sBaby Shower was a huge success after many weeks of planning and beingrescheduled. Baby Zoey decided to arrive 10 days early which happened to be onthe day of the baby shower - September 10th, 2011!! So all the desserts ended up going into my fridgeand freezer for 6 days until the rescheduled date. All the desserts were madeby local vendors, we also had a selection of organic cheese from a local caterer, Thrive A Carry Out Cafe, delicious food spread by Allison who hosted the event at her beautiful home, and theprintable party designs were created by an Etsy vendor. The great thing abouthaving a baby shower for a professional photographer is that there will beAMAZING pictures to come, maybe, sometime, hopefully, when she has time toactually edit and do work in between feeding, changing, and keeping up withlaundry for the baby, but here is a sneak peek!

The vendors that contributed to making thisbaby shower gorgeous:

Concept Design & Styling: Layla of SimplySavannah Events
Paperie: Paula of Frog Prince Paperie www.frogprincepaperie.com
Cake pops: Michelle of Delectable Designs www.savannahcakes.net
Mini cakes: Adrienne of Addy B’s Cakes www.chefaddy.com
Mini marshmallows, Chocolate peanut buttercookies with white chocolate frosting, and Mini cupcakes: Donna and Amanda ofGrace's Flour Garden www.facebook.com/pages/Graces-Flour-Garden
Favors: Salt water taffy of River Street Sweets www.riverstreetsweets.com

{Pin it Friday} Apple Cufflinks

2012-01-06T07:27:00.002-05:00

Source: geekware.ca via Layla on Pinterest

http://www.geekware.ca
Apple cufflinks - made from recycled Apple keys!!

{Bright Idea Thursday} Place Settings

2012-01-05T08:49:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite parts of events is setting the table and making it look pretty!! There are a plethora of options out there and thanks to pinterest and blogs you can find amazing ideas. Let me help you decide on your wedding’s style plus give you some wicked awesome setting layouts (yep, I sneaked in some Boston slang). Are you more of a bright color, rustic, luxurious, modern, earthy, country, or Victorian style person? Are you going to have red or white wine glasses? Do you want the wine glasses right side up or upside down? Is it buffet style, so no plates at the tables? Would you like the napkins set on top of the plates or next to the plates? Maybe have the napkins folded in an interesting way - learn how to fold napkins here: http://www.napkinfoldingguide.com/ or http://www.delish.com/recipes/napkin-folding/ Make sure you ask the venue, cateror, or linen rental companies if they will fold the napkins for you, otherwise, your wedding planner (me) will be doing it for you! Now that I have your brain whirling, let me give you some eye candy. Enjoy!

{formal option}

{proper setting}

{how to set a table}

Focus on Fabric and Color

{bright colors}

{bight flower colors}

{country napkin fold}

{mix and match napkins}

{quilt squares}

{fun fabric patterns}

Or maybe have luxurious tablescapes:

{pattern and colored tablecloths}

{hilary duff's wedding}

{nye event}

Are you more of a rustic table style?

{vintage style}

{autumn simplicity}

{wine vineyard rustic}

{eclectic style}

{wood boxes and texture}

{earthy}

{burlap}

{velvet ribbons}

{eco-friendly}

Do you love candles?

{holiday table}

{mercury glass}

{tapered candles with candelabras}

{recycled wine glasses with candles}

{different height candles}

{burlap and bling}

{black details-silverware on the napkins on the plate}

Let's just focus on the close up of the actual place setting details:

{rosemary sprig and thin twine}

{gold pumpkin place cards}

{rosemary large sprig and thin twine with tag}

{cotton ivory hemstitch napkins wrapped}

{billy button and burlap}

{clear plastic plates with calligraphy on a doily}

Any decisions yet? What style do you like the best?

You're Engaged Now WHAT!?

2012-01-04T11:42:00.001-05:00

Welcome to 2012!! So many people got engaged over the holidays including one of my best friends! He proposed to her on top of the Empire State Building in NYC - how romantic!! Congratulations on your engagement, take a moment and enjoy it, then get ready and prepare yourself for sooooo many questions and things to figure out!

You're Engaged Now WHAT!? I've been compiling a lot of resources on my blog since it saves on me printing it out or emailing it or for you to buy books, etc. If you go to the tag cloud on the right hand side of this blog and click on "etiquette" or just click on this link you'll be brought to ALL my posts about wedding planning and TONS AND TONS of information.

This post is about the FIRST STEPS on what you need to do asap! I've borrowed some great resources from a few fabulous blogs to help you get started.

THE QUESTIONS:

Whatkind of wedding do you want?

Church Ceremony orCivil Ceremony?

Small and IntimateParty or Bigger is Better Reception?

What isyour budget for the wedding?

Who do you want toinvite?

What’s your idealvenue?

When would you like toget married?

Is there a key theme,colour or inspiration in your head?

{Organic Wednesday} Eco-friendly Flowers

2012-01-04T08:17:00.000-05:00

I love the florist who I work with locally in Savannah, so this post in no way is to try and take away business from them or point fingers at them as to why they buy flowers from outside the U.S. (they do get flowers sometimes from Florida or California though). I also have a great relationship with the local wholesale florist in Savannah and have bought from them plus many many flowers from Fresh Market and Publix grocery stores. So am I just as guilty. BUT I love to learn more about Eco-friendly businesses and share their information to my readers. Maybe you'll support some of them and buy from them or maybe you'll pass along their information to other people. Either way this post today is to inform you about 2 companies that are Made In America and family focused! Many people buy flowers throughout the year and not just for weddings, so maybe next time you or someone you know orders flowers, you'll consider these companies.

Reasons to Purchase Local

☛ Purchasing fresh cut flowers (and vegetables) from local growers helps to support local agriculture, good land stewardship, and the preservation of diminishing farmland and open spaces.

☛ The floral industry is currently a global trade. The vast majority {80%} of fresh cut flowers are produced in Latin America using harsh chemicals and poor wages/working conditions. These flowers are then shipped thousands of miles to reach consumers, burning fossil fuels all along the way.

☛ Locally grown flowers are produced more sustainably, provide good jobs, and bring the consumer in direct contact with the grower, allowing for a higher level of appreciation/inspiration. Buying your flowers locally supports a “fair trade” approach similar to coffee, chocolate, spices, etc.

☛ Research shows that flowers are indeed “food for the soul”. A study by Rutgers University found that fresh flowers trigger happy emotions, heighten feelings of life satisfaction and affect social behavior in a positive manner. If one bouquet can do that, imagine what a whole field of flowers can do!

☛ Getting to know a local flower farmer builds a sense of community and understanding of how these beautiful blooms are grown, ultimately reconnecting {Love ‘n Fresh’s urban} buyers to nature in some small way. It also builds a unique relationship where the flower farmer knows many customers birthdays, anniversaries and other special commemorations that deserve dashing floral designs to celebrate.

☛ Every dollar spent on locally grown flowers puts the purchasing power back in the hands of the consumers, demonstrating that there is concern for the environment, small farms, the local economy, and quality standards. It may seem like just a bunch of daisies to most people, but it means a great deal in terms of long term sustainability on every front.

Dried Flowers Direct

"For three generations our family has been involved in commercial flower production. We moved into the Finger Lakes region of Western New York in 1990, thus 2005 is our fifteenth flower growing season on our scenic Keuka Lake dried flower farm".

Straw

"We raise our dried flowers from seeds or cuttings and either sow directly into the fields or transplant by hand (using a converted old horse-drawn cabbage setter). The flowers grown (more than fifteen acres) are supplied fresh at local markets or air dried in our circa 1860 barns. The barns, containing over two miles of drying lines, offer ideal drying conditions: warm temperatures with cool updrafts; large, dry, open airy room; and darkness. Presently, we are offering over 40 varieties of wholesale and retail dried flowers and are continuously expanding with new and exciting selections".

Baby's Breath

Cat-tails Pencil

Dried Flowers Direct™
from Keuka Flower Farm
Penn Yan, NY
(315) 694-9021
www.driedflowersdirect.com

California Organic Flowers

"Our main reason for starting our online organic flower store was because the only flowers we could find online were the same old tired flowers shipped all the way from South America. Here we were living on our beautiful flower farm brimming with a huge variety of locally grown organic flowers and all we could find online was hybrid roses! Well we just couldn't sit back and and let the demand for real field grown, fresh organic flowers go unfilled. The next thing you know we launched our website and were up to our necks in online orders and had to expand our farm to meet the demand".

wedding party pack mixed variety

"A seed is planted. Carefully placed in the soil, lovingly watered and weeded, pruned and supported, a flower grows. Flowers are sent to people we love, because we wish to express joy for their new job, house, or baby. They are sent to show we care about their sickness, injury or loss of loved one. Flowers are sent to encourage a friend to carry on in times of turmoil and they are sent just because we remember how important that person is to us and we just want them to know that we think of them from time to time. When we choose individual flowers on our farm, we tell them (yes, we really talk to your flowers!), ‘this is an important mission you have, travel proudly and be your best upon arrival.” That is why it is important to us that our flowers we grown organically and they be grown on our farm where we can see every single bloom before it is packed for shipment. We are a small farm, we plant every seed ourselves, harvest every bloom by hand. We understand that personal messages of love and grief deserve personal attention".

White Anemone Bouquet

Remember! Flowers are perishable. Please make sure someone is availableto receive the delivery. For residential deliveries, Fed Ex will leave yourflowers at the door if no one is present.

Our freshlyharvested flowers arrive at their destination in our custom gift box.Our flowers are always shipped with a water receptacle to ensurefreshness. In most cases, vases are not included, but can be added duringthe ordering process.

Next Day Shipping Costs:

All of our products are shipped Fed Ex PriorityOvernight

Tuesday-Friday $14.95 (anywherein continental USA)
Saturday: $22.95 (Sat. deliverymay not be available in rural locations)

info@californiaorganicflowers.com

CaliforniaOrganic Flowers

Chico,CA

(530) 891-6265

https://californiaorganicflowers.com

{Inspiration Board} Bohemian

2012-01-03T18:59:00.001-05:00

This week I keep seeing awesome stuff on Pinterest for Bohemian wedding themes so that inspired me for the board I made for Layla! I even added in a picture from one of her shoots that I was in (can you spot it-hint there is pomegranate)! Hope everyone had a great holiday and it feels good to be back into the blog world after taking a break while away on vacation!

Source: <couple>, <food table>, <our boho styled shoot>, <succulent>, <couch >, <justmarried sign>, <flowergirl>, <invitations>, <decor>, <bride>, <storybookinvitation>, <cake>, <vases>, <wedding dress>

CHOOSE GREEN

2011-12-31T14:17:00.000-05:00

Does my event need to be 100% green?

That is up to you! It can be a little or a lot, because every aspect of your event can be greener.

- According to the Green Bride Guide's research

Sharing the love of green on my blog at: http://simplysavannahevents.blogspot.com/p/green.html

GREEN IDEAS:

☛ Support local companies for your guest favors or welcome baskets (see my unique gift ideas on my blog at: http://simplysavannahevents.blogspot.com/p/vendors.html )

☛ Hire local Savannah recycling company, Footprint to set up and pick up your recycling at your event

☛ Don’t give guests favors, instead donate the money to your charity of choice:

https://www.idofoundation.org/

https://www.justgive.org

http://www.globalgiving.org/

http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/

http://www.redcross.org/

Susan G. Komen for the Cure®

☛ Have your ceremony and reception at the same location to cut on transportation

☛ Choose a Green Certified Reception or Botanical Garden

Richmond Hill City Center

Savannah Botanical Garden

Bamboo Farm & Coastal Garden

Hunter Cattle Co.

☛ Use Eco-friendly invitations, or just have the save-the-dates be a post card to cut on postage and paper

☛ Choose an organic caterer like Thrive

☛ Choose an Eco-friendly florist: Urban Poppy or A to Zinnias

☛ Use horse drawn carriages or pedi cabs to move your bridal party from one location to the next, if near by

I'll keep them coming don't worry! So what GREEN choices will you make for your wedding?

One Day In December

2011-12-30T15:00:00.000-05:00

Have you been following along? We are on the brink of 2012 and for the past few weeks, us fellow TWIPS members, have shared our 2011 look backs - sharing great insight, strength, creativity, huge business success, and a lot of personal struggles that have bonded us together. Who are all of us? Well we are Wedding Businesses from around the world who are run by inspirational people always willing to help, support and educate. We all met on the TWIPS site and it grew from there, regularly visiting each other blogs to offer encouragement, support and friendship. Acquaintances come and go but a true friendship can last a lifetime.The best part about being part of something like this is that in a world thats full of doom and gloom and cynicism, where everyone is out for themselves (especially in the wedding business where competitiveness has over taken common decency and quality), its a refreshing change to find such a positive collective of people from all over the world looking to do their level best to create a supportive network of friendship and education. Starting from the 9th December you will be able to read a post from each of us right through to the 31st December, not in a wahoo look at us but in a if we can then you can too kind of way. If you visit one of the blogs and you are touched by what you have read, then please comment, tweet or share in any way that you can and if you’d like to be part of the TWIPS then just click here. Thanks to Orly for setting this ALL up!!!
We hope you enjoy!
One Day in December

One Day In December Honour Roll

09th Dec} Shannon {Shannon Kelly Photography}

“You have to love. You have to feel. It is the reason you are here on earth.
You are here to risk your heart. You are here to be swallowed up”.
10th Dec} Cris {Kiss my Tulle}

It's About What's Important.
11th Dec} Layla {Simply Savannah Events}

I can't wait to see what 2012 will hold, but after looking back on my past year I feel very blessed and thankful!
12th Dec} Amanda {Bacidesigner}

I couldn't possibly feel anything other than lucky!
13th Dec} Allie {Honey Bee Invites}

Let’s take a look at my 2011 goals and see how much progress I’ve made.
14th Dec} Jen {Blush Printables}

You gotta do what you gotta do, my aunt always told me.
15th Dec} Colleen {Soundtrack to Ido}

Every challenge brings a lesson and every blessing brings joy.
16th Dec} Shaffone {Making your Event Special}

I set out to bringawareness to plus size brides in the wedding industry,
and I really feel that Ihave gone in the right direction in doing that.
17th Dec} Wendy {Just Wenderful}

Feel the fear and do it anyway!
18th Dec} Louise {Bijoux Bride}
I have since discovered the wedding industry is full of kind hearted and generous people.

19th Dec} Chandra {Oh Lovely Day}
The lesson I learned and wanted to share is that we (women) are too hard on ourselves.

20th Dec} Emma {Aphrodites Weddings}

Beautiful inspiration and trends: lace, vintage, coral, alternative dresses, sparkle, and more DIY.

21st Dec} Lisshan {Wrapper Couture}
This post isn't meant to be a sad one or one to elicit sympathy.
It's meant to encourage you to push through the pain, as I often do.

23rd Dec} Jessica {Two Wedding Belles}

2011 is the year I finally found my blogging mojo, and alot more of you found TWB.
Plus I started so many new blog relation(friend)ships!

24th Dec} Krissy {Make Believen}
2011 has been an inspiring year for Wed Eclectic which is a collective/team of wedding vendors dedicated to hand making amazing designs and art for eclectic wedding lovers.

25th Dec} Alicia {The Charity Wedding}
Life isn’t always perfect, situations don’t always play out how you planned, but I think if we start to find the good in the bad, we will realize how truly grateful we should be, all year round.

26th Dec} Orly {Intimate Wedding Photography}
You inspire me to...

27th Dec} Adrienne {Ruffles and Tweed}
Here's to 2011, the year of wonderful surprises, and to the hope that 2012 is even better.

30th Dec} Laura {Laura Lavender}
Believe in......

31st Dec} Lauren {Every Last Detail}
2010 is the year that I found myself, 2011 is the year I found my voice, and in 2012 I will be heard

Happy Holidays from Simply Savannah Events

2011-12-23T23:02:00.000-05:00

Happy Hanukkah, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to You and Yours!
We will be taking a short break from blogging until after the New Year......
Don't you just love all that hallmark cheesy holiday cheer and wouldn't you like to spread some love. If you are sending cards out (which they should already be out! but maybe for next year) here are some good ole sappy quotes that you can use:

BestWishes for a wonderful holiday season and a New Year of Health & Happiness!
Bestwishes for a happy and prosperous New Year.
Maythe spirit of the holidays warm your heart and home.
Mayall of this good cheer last throughout the year.
Wishingyou all good things now and throughout the coming year.
Mayyour home be filled with warmth and wonder this holiday season.
Season'sgreetings and best wishes for the New Year.
Maythe special joys of the season be yours today and always.
Maythe gifts of the season... peace, hope, love, health and happiness be yoursthroughout the New Year.
Warmestwishes for a wonderful holiday season.
Letus cherish the gift of family and friends this holiday season.
Wishingyou a holiday filled with peace, love, joy and lasting happiness.
Wishingyou every happiness this holiday season and throughout the coming year.
Wishingyou a holiday filled with peace, joy and hope.
Wishingyou all the joys of the holiday season.
Mayyour holidays be merry & bright.
Maythe spirit of the holidays warm your heart and home.
Sendingwarm wishes from our family to yours this holiday season.
Warmestthoughts and best wishes for a wonderful holiday and a very Happy New Year.
Wishingyou peace, love & happiness for the holidays and always.

So I'm Organized!! Desk clear, folders reorganized, to do list getting checked off, wish list started, goals for next year written down....starting to be ready for 2012. And now for a totally random inspiration board of fun holiday decor filled with Hanukkah and Christmas since I celebrate both. Plus I already did a New Years Eve board with a recap on my 2011.

Bring it on 2012!! Bring it!

Source: hanukkah party, tag printables, miniholiday cake, candycane cake, happy holidays, hanukkahdecorations, christmastree, red andwhite christmas decorations, diysnowball wreath, merry christmas, hotcocoa mix in a jar

{Pin it Friday} Happy Hanukkah

2011-12-23T07:14:00.000-05:00

Source: google.com via Layla on Pinterest

Wet Wedding

2011-12-22T10:59:00.000-05:00

It's bound to happen to some people, not sure what percentage of weddings get rained on, but I'm sure a lot. My cousin's wedding had rain but they had a backup plan and everything was OK! This picture is from my cousin's wedding and it's one of my favorite pics since we all grew up together and I miss them...awwww. They are all in Boston and I'm here in Savannah.

Will (my brother), Jackie (my cousin), Me, Gina (the bride, Jackie's older sis, my cousin)

Some say rain on your wedding day is good luck, not bad. Remember Life Law # 6: There is no reality, only perception. You have the ability to choose how you perceive any event in your life, and you exercise this power of choice in every circumstance, every day of your life.Put it in perspective. It was one day in your long life together as husband and wife. It didn't go as planned, but it's a sign of the resilience you have as a couple. And you now have a story to tell that is unique to everyone else's. Thanks Dr. Phil, sometimes I actually do like what comes out of your mouth! To read more on this article click here: www.drphil.com

This is your day to celebrate the amazing commitment you are making and to profess to the world the love you feel. Nothing, and I mean NOTHING, else really matters. www.banderasnews.com

Make sure you have a backup plan!

Reserve a tent for the wedding just in case.

Let your wedding planner know what Plan B is!

Sometimes having rain on your wedding day can turn into super fun wedding photos!

Here are some photos from all sorts of weddings that had rain on their special day.

preppy rain boots

rain boots, jump, black and green umbrellas, military, glowing, taken photography

These simple clear umbrellas are fun and can be found online at: Amazon.com Clear Bubble Stick Umbrella

{Organic Wednesday} Charity

2011-12-20T10:13:00.000-05:00

CharityWatch is a nationally prominent charity watchdog service whose purpose is to help donors make informed giving decisions. Their web site will provide you with information about their organization, the charities they rated, and their method of grading charities. Other features include tips for giving wisely, a helpful-hints guide for getting the most for the dollars you donate; tips for online giving; answers to frequently asked questions (FAQ); and useful and interesting articles on a variety of topics relating to charitable giving; and more.

How does your favorite charity rate? Of the over five-hundred charities currently rated by CharityWatch, only a select number qualify for their listing of Top-Rated charities based on their rigorous analysis. Groups included on the Top-Rated list generally spend 75% or more of their budgets on programs, spend $25 or less to raise $100 in public support, do not hold excessive assets in reserve, and receive "open-book" status for disclosure of basic financial information and documents to CharityWatch. http://www.charitywatch.org/

After looking at their many highly rated charities, here are my TOP choices of the "A" organizations:

http://www.awionline.org

Since 1951, the Animal Welfare Institute has been dedicated to reducing animal suffering caused by people.

http://www.thp.org

The Hunger Project (THP) is a global, non-profit, strategic organization committed to the sustainable end of world hunger. In Africa, South Asia and Latin America, THP seeks to end hunger and poverty by empowering people to lead lives of self-reliance, meet their own basic needs and build better futures for their children.

http://www.bbbs.org

Big Brother Big Sister, positively impact a child for the better, forever.

Also on December 11th CNN broadcasted an amazing show about Heroes. Many tears were shed! The top ten were selected from more than 10,000 nominations submitted online on the CNN Heroes website.

These four really touched my heart!

American Widow Project: provided support to more than 900 military widows since 2007.

Global Soap Project: recycles partially used hotel soap to save lives in impoverished countries.

Yayasan Bumi Sehat: Robin Lim and her team have helped thousands of low-income women have a healthy birthing experience.

World Access Project: provided hundreds of wheelchairs to people in rural Mexico.

But there were so many great stories and you must read more and donate if you can here:

http://www.google.com/landing/cnnheroes/2011/index.html

http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/cnn.heroes/

http://www.facebook.com/CNNHeroes

How do you donate? What charities do you support? Will/did you make a donation for your wedding?
I like to donate my blood as much as I can to The Blood Alliance and support our local Humane Society