Southern California Wedding Workbook

Wedding-opoly anyone?

2012-01-30T10:06:00.001-08:00

Have you ever thought, "Hey, I wish that I had a game of Monopoly that portrayed my life...instead of Boardwalk and railways. Well, guess what? Monopoly has done it again!!!

"I created one for my friends as a wedding present and used the names of local stations, bars and gigs as properties as well as familiar situations that would demand cash. They LOVED it." Ruth Gillan

This version of Monopoly is completely custom made in the factory. You send in your specifications, wait 6 weeks, and receive your game! You could have it be a surprise, and order it for the couple, or you could simply purchase them a gift certificate/voucher, and let them design their own.

You can name the 22 property squares, you can choose and name the icons, you can name the game. This game is made in the real Monopoly factory, and will come in a lovely metal presentation box. Even the rules and the title deed cards are personalized. This is a 100% original wedding gift, perfect for your favorite newlyweds!!

What do you think?

5 Money Saving Tips for wedding flowers

2012-01-09T15:59:00.000-08:00

Everywedding should be dripping with beautiful flowers. But we don't want ourwallets to run dry because of it. We have some tips for you that might reallycut down the price you would be paying.

Firsttip, give your florist a general idea of the style and color scheme you aregoing for. Tell her which flowers that are an absolute no, but generally allowthem flexibility so they can use what is in season and cheapest. There are sometimes when peonies cost a fortune, and other times when they are so cheap youcan fill your hall with them. Make sure this flexibility will be reflected inyour final price tag.

Beautiful pink Peony's

Secondtip; avoid holding your wedding in February when flower prices are at an annualhigh due to Valentine's Day. That month even the cheapest of flowers areexpense.

Thirdtip, large arrangements on an altar will only be seen from far away. Useinexpensive flowers such as carnations, or large filling flowers such assnowball mums.

Pink Carnations with a Pink Ribbon

Fourth tip;find a venue such as a park or garden that is already lush and beautiful. Andthink about talking to your venue directors and asking them if any other bridesare booked the same day as you are. If the two of you could coordinate flowersand split the cost it would save the both of you a fortune.

White Lily's with Feathers

Do you wantto use your birth flower in your wedding but don't know what it is? Here is alist of all months and there flower.

Cream and Pink Roses with a studded wrap

January- the Carnation or Snowdrop

February- the Violet or Primrose
March - Jonquil (aka Daffodil or Narcissus)

April -the Sweet pea or Daisy

May -the Lily of the Valley
June - the Rose
July - the Larkspur or Water Lily
August - the Gladiolus or Poppy

September- the Aster or Morning Glory

October- the Marigold

November- the Chrysanthemum
December - the Narcissus

Quick tip, before you toss you bouquet have a back up bouquet to toss. Keep the one you walked down the aisle with hidden away. Maybe ask a bridesmaid to help you with this task. This keeps your bouquet from getting bruised or damaged, so it lasts longer for you.

What do you think of the Monique Lhuillier 2012 wedding gown line?

2011-11-30T16:02:00.001-08:00

"Wedding Rules for the Techy Bride"...as seen on MSN!

2011-11-02T10:37:00.001-07:00

Yes, there's an update to wedding etiquette. Check out these techie laws to abide by while planning your wedding.

Do: Use Facebook to share pics from prewedding parties...and, later, wedding photos!

Don't: Don't skip sending traditional wedding invites. It's a formal event (yes, even if it's in your backyard), so treat it that way.

Do: Read blogs, online forums and review sites (go to WeddingChannel.com vendor reviews) to get real brides' opinions of potential vendors and to write reviews of your favorites after the wedding.

Don't: Don't bash your vendors on review sites! Give kudos when deserved, and remember that your vendors are human. A thoughtful and honest review is the way to go.

Do: Use social media (like foursquare or Facebook) for checking in during your planning (at the cake bakery or floral studio). You could even score a discount along the way!

Don't: Don't let this serve as a trail for those who aren't invited on the dress shopping trip. Cousin sally might be upset when she sees you've "checked in: to the bridal salon and she didn't get an invite. Don't publish a check-in to your feed.

Do: Follow wedding pros on Twitter for ideas, deals and inspiration. Just a few of our faves: @colincowie, @jesihaack, @kissthegroom, @ShawnRabideau and @mysweetandsaucy.

Don't: Don't use social media, especially Twitter and Facebook, to constantly update your followers and friends on your upcoming nuptials. Instant unfollow!

-- Anne Jones

Tell us....did you post your wedding on Facebook?

Have you heard of eco-friendly diamonds. Check this out!

2011-10-29T14:04:00.001-07:00

MiaDonna & Company creates the most fashionable, highest quality, Designer Engagement Rings and Wedding Rings available BUT from eco-friendly precious metals and they set their rings with these amazing, conflict free, diamond infused simulated diamond, the Diamond Hybrid®.

Every Ring from MiaDonna is created individually by hand right here in the USA and comes with a written satisfaction guarantee and warranty.

This is not only a beautiful and affordable solution for today's couples and jewelry consumers, but it also relieves the pressures that traditional mined products put on global society’s and the environment. Most of all, it allows MiaDonna & Co. to become a sustainable source to fund projects that repair the damage already created by the exploitation of these precious natural resources through our charitable foundation "The Greener Diamond".

Check out the details online at www.miadonna.com . It's INCREDIBLE.

Tell us what you think of this idea by commenting below and we just may publish your opinion. :)

2012 UBER FAB wedding trends are peeking out! See what's hot!

2011-09-01T12:23:00.001-07:00

We're seeing wedding cake colors of pinks, yellows, neutral colors making their way to the wedding stage for 2012.

Amazing floral arrangements are a must for the 2012 wedding season. Vibrant and fresh is the order of the day.

Not only vibrant colors but candy and sushi bars are making a comeback.

2012 HoneymoonsForget the same old destinations! No more generic all-inclusive resorts for couples getting married in 2012. Today’s newlyweds are saving up and heading to distant exotic locales. Bali, Morocco and Nepal will start to win out over traditional places like Jamaica and Mexico. Adventurous couples will be doing more than just lying on the beach – we’re seeing 2012 couples register for outgoing activities, such as kite surfing, scuba diving, horseback riding and more!

If you're planning a 2012 wedding make sure you stay organized with a printed wedding workbook from http://www.bridalworkbook.com/.

I LOVE Kim Kardashian's smokey eye for her wedding!

2011-09-01T10:45:00.000-07:00

I just love the Kardashians..don't you? They're stylish, sophisticated and for reality tv stars they sure do keep themselves together. Did you like the photos of Kim Kardashians wedding? Here's how her make-up artist did her eyes.

I just love this! If you're looking for other tips on creating the perfect smokey eye then download a free copy of the SoCal Wedding Workbook at www.socalweddingworkbook.com/order.htm .

SoCal Wedding Workbook recommends....FlorUnique!

2011-05-20T14:43:00.000-07:00

Imagine the bouquet you've dreamed about since you were a little girl..now imagine it's a real. We recommend Florunique because of their precise ability to capture your dream.

To interview them call (310) 480-6464 or check out their website at www.florunique.com

Dressing your Body Type!

2011-04-04T17:16:00.001-07:00

If You're Pear-Shaped:

Look for a skirt that gradually flares out in an A formation from the natural waist to the floor, highlighting the narrowness of the midsection and floating away from the hips and thighs. (Sturdier fabrics, such as duchesse satin and taffeta, are especially effective, since they won't cling.) A spaghetti-strap bodice or a V neckline will also showcase a more slender upper body.

If You're Busty:

Look for a dress with a scooped neckline. It will open up your face and display your décolletage without showing too much cleavage. If you love the look of strapless gowns, choose one that has a slight dip along the neckline, like a sweetheart, rather than a style that goes straight across (which will make your bust appear even larger and more shelflike).

If You’re Plus-Sized:
Look for an Empire dress with a skirt that begins just under the bust and flows into a gradual floor-length A-line. Make sure the Empire seam does not start on the chest and that there is no pleating of the fabric, which is reminiscent of maternity wear. The dress should play up your shape; if it’s too loose, it will add pounds.

If You’re Apple-Shaped:
Look for a dress that cinches in at the smallest point on the waistline, then flares out into a gradual A shape. Opt for a bodice with a lot of texture to it―think ruche or lace detailing―that will camouflage and fit snugly, creating a corsetlike effect. The most slenderizing neckline for you is one with a deep V, which will draw eyes toward the vertical, not the horizontal.

If You're Tall:

Look for a simple silhouette. The strategy is to emphasize your natural shape, so every aspect of the dress―the lower waistline, a floor-sweeping hem―needs to reflect your longer proportions. If you're wearing long sleeves, they should go past the wrist. You don't want to look as if you've borrowed a gown from someone shorter than you.

Bride uses our wedding workbook to plan her wedding...here's her story.

2011-03-31T04:19:00.001-07:00

"We are putting our wedding workbook to good use. It was a life-saver when Jon and I went to check out venues for our ceremony and for our engagement party. Here’s why ~

I am a bit of a perfectionist. I love organization. Whenever I get too stressed, I begin cleaning and putting things away, getting rid of junk and organizing my desk, bedroom, kitchen, bathroom…nothing is off limits to become orderly. So, being a rather organized person myself, it would seem that I should be all put together, right? Wrong…

When I begin interviews with vendors that I need to make my wedding perfect, I begin to stress and I forget half my questions. Fortunately, the wedding workbook that Jon and I chose has all the questions written down and all I have to do is write the answers in the spaces given on the worksheet. I won’t have to find my note pad(s) later and try to remember where I scribbled all my notes. It’s truly brilliant!

I used the venues worksheets 1st because our whole wedding design depends on our venue. We decided on a country-vintage wedding theme. We’ve also decided to forget the traditional idea of wedding colors. Instead, we are keeping browns and neutrals dominant with splashes of color in flowers and decor. I am wearing pearls with little diamonds for earrings and necklace and we’re encouraging everyone to dress to our theme. I love the idea of a mis-matched vintage-y wedding that is all our own! Thanks for the great workbook. It's been a lifesaver!"

- Sara and Jon

Check out Silver Charm Events!

2011-03-25T09:30:00.000-07:00

Check out Liz with Silver Charm Events! She offers a variety of packages to meet your needs!

Check out Memoire Events!

2011-03-17T15:39:00.000-07:00

Memoire Events is the event coordination company that helps you afford your event! They specialize in helping you with your vision and turning it into a reality within your budget.

With their long standing relationships with venues and vendors they negotiate your contracts and then apply those discounts to your budget.They do full event coordination, partial and day of. They understand that it takes a very level headed event professional to come in at the last minute for a day of wedding and make it run flawlessly. Christine has been an event coordinator for over 15 years and can help you from concept to completion with an eye for detail. Let them help you create an event to remember!

We love FlorUnique! You're L.A. Wedding Floral Designer!

2011-03-14T15:20:00.000-07:00

Feel free to check out FlorUnique to plan your LA Wedding! They really do have unique styles! Check them out here.

I need a wedding workbook, but I don't know which one to get. HELP!

2010-12-30T09:05:00.003-08:00

When choosing a wedding workbook, remember to look for one that has all of the checklists, time lines and questions to ask wedding vendors in their respective categories. Also, look for one that has local resources and local information; like wedding trends in fashion, colors and style. Anything local, the better. A great choice is the Southern California Wedding Workbook, which includes all of the above, as well as color photos and incredible ideas.

You can buy it at most major bookstores as well as online at over 25,000 locations. Here's a quick link to buy one online: www.bridalworkbook.com. The cost is only $14.95!

How do we keep it all together and make sure everyone has fun?e

2010-12-30T09:05:00.001-08:00

A: There are many ala carte services available to help spice up your wedding, make your guests feel welcomed, and assist it in running smoothly. For example, if you're having an outside wedding, have you provided restrooms and a hand washing station for your guests? How about a photobooth available to all? Have you thought about dance lessons for the two of you? for the bridal party? Specialized lighting is an economical way to turn an otherwise ordinary venue into an extraordinary sight. Are you serving alcohol? What about children...have you considered things for them to do or someone to watch over them? Do you need to hire a house-cleaning service?

How do you find good service providers? First of all, find recommendations from reputable sources, and then, ask questions? Below are a few sample questions:

How long have you been in business providing this type of service?
What type of guarantee do you have?
How are your employees dressed?
Are you licensed?
Do you have references?

For an elaboration on ala carte services and more questions to ask, please see the Ala Carte Section of the Southern California Wedding Workbook. Be sure to write down your answers to the questions on the worksheets provided in the workbook. This will help you be successful in keeping organized along the way during your wedding planning.

Amazing photo by Sharaga Studios! WE LOVE THEM!

2010-12-30T09:04:00.001-08:00

As everyone bustles around busily, time stands still for these two...and only the moon is a witness to this moment of passion. Sharaga Studios is an AMAZING artistic team!

INCREDIBLE PHOTOGRAPHY by Sharaga Studios

2010-12-15T11:45:00.001-08:00

Sharaga Studios captures this bride and groom zooming away happily in an array of pink. This team's beautiful work never disappoints us.

Photo of the week! Sharaga Studios

2010-11-29T09:12:00.000-08:00

The sacred moment....enveloped in artistic beauty! Submitted by Sharaga Studios. Southern California Wedding Workbook admires this award-winning "family team"!

How do I attend a bridal show and make it worth my while?

2010-11-10T08:51:00.001-08:00

First off, you need to choose which events are going to be most useful to you. Do this by researching the different types of bridal shows and expos in your area. Free shows or workshops can be a fabulous start.

Second, use these shows to your advantage: there are several wedding experts in the same area, so ask your tough planning questions without having to run all over town or make a hundred phone calls!

Now it's time to prepare! Here are four of our bride-tested suggestions:

Bring labels.
Be prepared to buy.
Bring color swatches.
Bring a camera

A bridal expo is also an excellent place to take along your Southern California Wedding Workbook. Not only does it have the Top 10 Questions to Ask each category of vendors, but it also includes the worksheets to write down the answers.

Be sure to check out our website for upcoming Bridal Events!

What is a typical order of events for a wedding reception?

2010-11-10T08:49:00.001-08:00

Everyone will be looking forward to the celebration of your union. How should you start it? You'll need some sort of agenda to make sure the party runs as smoothly as possible. You may even want to provide your guests with a program, so that they know how the evening will unfold.

Below we've included a sample agenda for you Although this is a traditional order, you can customize any portion of it to fit your circumstances:

5:00 pm Cocktail hour

6:00 pm Introduction of bridal party, bride and groom

6:20 pm Table blessing

6:30 pm Begin food service

7:00 pm Toast by the best man (and possibly the maid of honor or parents)

7:15 pm Mother/Son and Father/Daughter dances

7:30 pm Music and entertainment

9:00 pm Cake cutting

9:20 pm Remarks and acknowledgements by the bride and groom

9:30 pm Exit
10:00 pm The reception ends

For an elaboration on these, please see the Receptions & Banquets section of the Southern California Wedding Workbook.

Keep your eye out for upcoming, pre-screened reputable venues for you to consider on our website!