Second Sunday today!

Come enjoy the sounds of the Summer Quartet today during our Second Sunday event. Lot's going on here today at City Plaza!

Friday Fun Find - "Garter Girl" Julianne Smith Wedding Garters

Your wedding garter can be a fun way to express your personality on your wedding day.

Julianne Smith started designing custom wedding garters back in 2005 and hasn't looked back. From traditional to animal print or even eco friendly, her garters are sure to add that special something to your wedding day.

Check out Julianne's website to see the full collection or to inquire about your own custom made garter. And be sure to visit the Garter Girl Blog for more information and pictures of Jilianne's unique garters

This wedding brought to you by.....

You may remember several years ago Star Jones created quite a stir when she asked wedding professionals to donate their services for her wedding in exchange for promotion. At the time I thought it was tacky and a celebrity "stunt".

Flash forward to 2009. I was reading the holiday edition of Catersource magazine and came across an article about the bride who asked her caterer to sponsor her wedding in exchange for advertising the caterer's business by putting their business cards at each place setting.

Apparently, the bride got this idea from a morning TV show. While I am all for looking for creative ways to save money on your wedding, I think this is totally over the top and completely inappropriate. Your wedding should be about celebrating with your family and friends in doing so in a way that you and your family can afford.

Carly Roney, editor in chief of TheKnot.com summed it up, "have hamburgers and hot dogs before you have a sponsored wedding."

I'm curious what you think. Is there ever a time when it's OK to ask someone to sponsor your wedding in exchange for advertising?

Wait, wait... Don't trash that dress!

The "Trash the dress" fad had been around for a few years now, and although I understand the creative concept behind it, I could never get past the idea of ruining a wedding gown. Seemed a little odd to me not just because of the expense and labor that goes into producing these dresses, but all the thought that goes into selecting the gown. A gorgeous gown can inspire the whole tone of your wedding day. Seems a shame to just toss it aside.

Earlier this year Brides a la mode was made aware of an organization that helps women and men who are losing their battle with breast cancer, Brides Against Breast Cancer. You can donate your gown and bring a moment of joy into the world of someone for whom a cure is too late. Brides Against Breast Cancer has over 32 shows all over the country, providing these brides with a beautiful choice of gowns at significant savings. More information can be found at their website www.bridesagainstbreastcancer.org .

If care is used, artistic photographs can still be shot while preserving the integrity of the gown. Why not pass it on to another eager bride?

Cathy Dietz

Q & A Monday: Where have we been? And what's new?

You may have been wondering what happened to our daily blogs since the last time you heard from us was way back on October 26.


Well lots of things have been happening. First of all, shortly after blogging on October 26, I managed to fall and break my right arm in three places, requiring surgery and a four day hospital stay. Since I am right-handed, my ability to type has been severely limited. That is until I discovered voice recognition software. So, now that physical therapy is moving along and I have somewhat mastered the art of voice recognition, we are back on track.


We are busy preparing our studio for the holidays and excited about our upcoming "Second Sunday" event on Sunday, December 13. In case you didn't know, on the second Sunday of each month we host a mini bridal show featuring a number of our wedding professionals. On December 13, our event will have a holiday theme. Brides grooms and their families can stop by between noon and 3:00 PM to meet one on one with our wedding professionals and enjoy some holiday cheer.


We're excited to welcome our newest member, The Riverside Terrace and look forward to having them participate in one of our monthly events in the near future.


Remember that Brides a la mode is your one-stop wedding planning resource, regardless of what stage you are at in your wedding planning. Whether you have a question about etiquette or are looking for a unique gift for your bridesmaids or favor for your guests, we will have something perfect just for you.

Kathy

Q&A Monday - Contracts, who needs 'em?

Q: My wedding professionals want me to sign contracts, but I'm not sure what I should be looking for to protect myself. Can you help?

Contracts can be very intimidating, but you are right that they are in place not only to protect the wedding professional, but to protect you. If you approach each contract with that in mind, you will most likely end up with a contract that serves those purposes.

Please don't insult your professional by asking for contract revisions that make the contract "tilted" towards you, but also be mindful of contracts that do not offer you any protection if your professional fails to perform.

Here are some things to look for in your contracts:

• Pricing (make sure the price in the contract is the price you agreed on with your professional)
• Payment plans (you don't want to void your contract because you missed a payment)
• Cancellation policies (who can cancel and how)
• Dates and times (make sure your rental time includes time for set up and tear down)
• Contract amendments (your contract should state how changes can be made and who can make changes)

Contracts are one area where an event planner can be invaluable. They have worked with many reputable wedding professionals and can help you understand contract wording. But remember, YOU (the bride/groom) will sign the contracts and ultimately be responsible.

Remember - if you have a wedding question, email us at info@bridesalamode.com. Wedding Q&A's are here every Monday!

Saturday Spotlight - ProShow DJ

Today's spotlight is on one of Michiana's finest DJ services, ProShow DJ.

From the most elegant reception to the all-out party atmosphere, ProShow has been raising the standards of the disc jockey field for nearly 30 years. Our entertainment specialists do more than simply play music: they serve as Master of Ceremonies, encourage guest participation and incorporate important family traditions; all while maintaining the highest level of professionalism.

Through communication throughout the planning of every event and customizing details to the individual needs of our clients we have consistently delivered an evening that flows smoothly and that surpasses the expectations of our client and their guests.

ProShow has earned the respect of Michiana’s key reception facilities and vendors due in no small part to the solid group of individuals working for our company. Because we provide music for a wide variety of events including wedding receptions, church groups, youth organizations, corporate functions and school dances, it is imperative our specialists maintain the highest ethical standards in programming of music.

Each ProShow entertainment specialist has a minimum of 8 years experience in both disc jockeying and mc-ing. They have a vast knowledge of every musical era and facilitate with key vendors to ensure everyone stays on the same page throughout the course of the event. By implementing these practices as a whole, ProShow has gained the reputation as the preferred vendor for repeat clientele, referral business, event vendors and nationally recognized consultants

Friday Fun Find, a "nest" for your ring

Today's Friday Fun Find was also inspired while attending Engage09 the Encore in Las Vegas. One of our favors was a beautiful porcelin egg from Paloma's Nest. I learned that Paloma's Nest makes gorgeous hand-crafted ring bearer bowls which she sells via her Etsy Store.
Here's what Paloma has to say about this bowl:

THE ORIGINAL Ring Bearer Bowl™ design from Paloma's Nest that has created a new tradition in weddings all around the globe. As featured in Brides Magazine, Brides to Be Australia, and more!
Our spin on the classic ring bearer pillow...a Ring Bearer Bowl™, sure to become a modern heirloom, for generations to come.

Now in stock and ready to ship within 7 days of your order!

This little white ceramic ring bowl is an exclusive Paloma's Nest design. It is hand crafted and stamped with the words TO HAVE & TO HOLD .

What makes it different from our traditional tiny text bowls (please visit our shop for these options and more!), is the two little holes near the top rim, through which I have laced a silky cotton cord to hold your rings for your wedding ceremony. This cord can be easily switched out by you for a ribbon that matches your wedding style...or to a blue cord for your "something blue," if you wish!

After the ceremony, the cord can be tied into a loop or a bow, and the bowl can hold jewelry, momentos or other treasures.

But that's not all...my favorite part of this piece is that the tiny bowl can also be hung by the cord, on a wall in a special spot (next to your wedding photo would be nice), in a shadow box frame, or on your holiday tree.

Each piece is handmade of fine white clay, and fired in our kiln; the bowls have a protective matte finish applied to the surface and are designed for decorative use only.
Bowls measure approximately 3.5 inches in diameter...they fit nicely in the palm of your hand.

Note that each bowl is indvidually made to order, and therefore variations will occur in the layout and shape...your bowl may not look exactly like the one in the photo.(Rings are not included.)


What a fun way to present your ring! Be sure to visit Paloma's Nest on Etsy and check back next Friday for another "Fun Find" for you wedding planning!

Wednesday Wedding Wisdom - Dollars and Sense

If there is one word of wisdom I can impart on brides-to-be, it is: BUDGET! Without a budget, you can easily be overwhelmed by all of the services and products available and, before you know it, you have spent (or committed to spend) much more money than you have -- you don't want to start your marriage with the stress of bills you can't pay!

Once you have a budget figure, the next step is to decide what is most important to you and start allocating money to each category. If you have a modest budget and your heart is set on a Vera Wang gown, you may need to either scale down the size of your wedding or research alternatives like consignment stores to find the perfect gown.

Bridal magazines and many online resources have great budgeting tools. Need help locating a budgeting form that works for you? Visit the professionals at Brides a la mode and we'll get you started in the right direction!

Q&A Monday - Its a hairy situation

Today's Q&A was posed to Brides a la mode member, Sonia Stancombe of Nicholas J Salon & Spa

What is your advice to brides who are thinking of how to wear their hair on wedding day?

Our experienced staff will work with you on this.....but we suggest letting your face shape determine how you will wear your hair for your wedding. Along with your faceshape you will want to consider the style of your dress.

Regal, romantic, retro, relaxed and red carpet: these are a few of the descriptions I hear when discussing an overall image with our brides. This is really important in establishing the final look and feel. In general, a bride with a rounder face will look sleeker with an updo, and a bit of height at the crown. This elongates the face giving it a leaner look. A flattering look for someone with a long, lean face would include a hairstyle with soft, loose curls. This will give the bride a fuller look on the sides to create a more balanced look.

Another factor when considering your choice of hairstyle is whether the bride would like to have her neck covered or not. Some brides would much rather that she doesn't need to tuck or fix any bit of hair for photos through the Wedding day, while others feel very bare without the comfort of hair around the shoulder. Half-up-half-down is a popular compromise.

Remember, you can have your wedding questions answered by one of our professionals here every Monday. Just email info@bridesalamode.com!

Friday Fun Finds - Sunday morning edition

Last week, I had the good fortune to attend Engage09 The Encore at the ultra-fabulous Wynn Encore hotel in Las Vegas. This gathering of luxury wedding professionals was more than amazing and I am so excited to be able to bring back some great ideas from the likes of Evenista Marcy Blum, cake guru Sylvia Weinistock and more to the Michiana community.

I learned about today's fun find at Engage 09 Encore and just had to share this!

JT Wines, located in St. Helena, California doensn't just slap a label on any old bottle of wine; they actually develop custom, private blends with exclusive rights…your wine is “yours”.

This bottle was developed exclusively for Engage09 Encore -- can you imagine having a wine made just for you? What great way to celebrate your union -- by creating a wine that not only can be served at your wedding, it can be given as a gift to your guests and it can become your own personal brand of wine for years to come.

Couples can actually go to the winery and work with the winemaker to create their own blend, or they can choose from the winery's selection. You can design your own logo and name for your wine. You could combine your names into a unique word that becomes your "signature". For example, I'm Kathy and my husband is George, we often call ourselves "GeoKat" -- how fun would it be to have our own "GeoKat" wine!

The possibilities are endless. Check out JT Wines website and if you'd like more info, please give us a call at Brides a la mode!

Wednesday Wedding Wisdom - Do yourself a favor

This week's wisdom is from Nina Calloway at about.com:

Wedding favors can be a thoughtful way of saying thank you to your guests. But far too often they're a meaningless knickknack. Your guests don't need a candy dish, or a little silver bell.

Don't think their cute place card holder doubles as a favor; what are they going to do with one place card? And do you really want a plastic Frisbee with your friends' wedding date on it?

You're going to spend a lot of money on things that will just collect dust, or end up in the trash. I think it's far better to not give favors, or to make a donation to a charity. But cute favors include ones that are personal to the bride and groom. You might give food favors from the city you live in, or a box of your very favorite chocolates.

One of my favorite ideas is a breakfast bag. Send guests home with some beautiful muffins, a couple of good quality tea bags, and perhaps a little pot of jam or honey. The next morning they'll be sure to enjoy your treat as they reminisce about everything that happened.

So, do yourself, your pocketbook and your guests a "favor" when choosing your favors!

If you need some help with ideas, drop us a note at info@bridesalamode.com or stop in to see us and we'll share some of our "Favor"ites!

Tuesday Trends

Something that has been fun to watch at local wedding receptions, is guests enjoying new, unique services that give them something to do along with dinner and dancing. Brides and grooms are thinking outside-the-box to make their special day an unforgettable experience for all. How nice it is to be served a made-to-order coffee drink, or how fun to grab your friends and get your photo taken in a "real" photobooth!


Brides a la mode is lucky to be working with American Espresso Catering, Flashy Photo Booths and S&S Photo Booths. All three have participated in our events and were amazing!

At a local wedding last weekend a hot-dog cart was brought out towards the end of the reception. Guests LOVED it! What will they think of next?

Q&A Monday - how inviting!

Brides a la mode wants to help you have the wedding of your dreams, so each Monday, we will be answering questions about all aspects of your wedding. Feel free to drop us a line at info@bridesalamode.com if you have a question you'd like to see answered here.

Today's question is about wedding stationery:

Q: It doesn't really matter what kind of invitation I send, does it? After all, as long as peopleknow the date, time and location, what else do they need?

A: Here is the answer from Brides a la mode's own Joya Helmuth from Spark Fine Papers:

Realize that the invitation (and save the date, should you choose to send one) is setting the tone for your entire event. It's the only thing that the guests receive prior to walking in the door. They should not only get a sense of your personal style, but also what to expect at the wedding - how formal or casual it will be, things like that.

Also think about the other items you might need, such as ceremony programs, menus, thank you notes, and the like. We recommend that you plan ahead to coordinate these items with the invitation to make everything cohesive. We like to call it your stationery wardrobe, complete with accessories!

Check back next Monday for another Q&A. Have a question? Be sure to email us! info@bridesalamode.com

Sunday Spotlight... Trio's Restaurant and Jazz Club

Trios Restaurant and Jazz Club is based on a single premise: good food and good music go together like Duke and Ellington.

Trios has quickly established a reputation of one of South Bend's finest upscale dining establishments, featuring outstanding American cuisine, excellent service and some of the region's finest jazz groups.

Trio's offers banquet facilities and has, since opening, hosted hundreds of events in it's banquet and private meeting rooms. Parties of 8 to 100 can be accommodated in one of four private rooms. Located in the heart of downtown South Bend, Trio's is an ideal location for business meetings, seminars, wedding receptions and rehearsal dinners. Out-of-town guests staying at the Marriott or Holiday Inn hotels are within a five-minute walk from Trio's.

Your event is complete, yet you don't want the good time to end? Trio's invites you to join us in the Jazz Club for outstanding coctails and some of the best live Jazz performers in the region.

Our event planning staff brings years of experience and planning, and will work closely with you to determine the best setting and menu selection for your business or social events.

For more information please visit the Trio's website at www.triossb.com

Wedding Professionals Step Up to Help a local Couple

C'mon over to Brides a la mode (1217 E. University Drive in Granger's City Plaza) between 4-8 p.m. on Tuesday, September 29 and join with local wedding professionals in helping Army Sgt. Chris Monjeau and his new bride Mary recover just some of what they lost when their house was burglarized while they were celebrating at their wedding reception on September 12.

Here is just SOME of what you can expect:

Food and drink provided by Chic Eats Catering, Trio's, the Landing Catering and Indulgence Pastry Shop

Professional photographer Matthew Whitlock will be taking pictures you can use on your holiday cards or for your professional headshots. Hair and makeup professionals from Nichoals J Salon and Spa and Camellia Cosmetics will be on hand to make sure you look your best.

ProShow DJ will be playing holiday music to get us all in the mood and has donated a 3-hour DJ package for the raffle. In addition, they are giving $100 off to any DJ package booked on September 29 and will donate $25 for each package booked to the Monjeaus.

The Landing Catering has donated $500 worth of catering which will be raffled off for a holiday party or other event.

American Espresso Catering will be on hand to serve hot coffees and other beverages for a $1 donation. All of the donations will be given to Chris and Mary.

There are many more raffle items too numerous to list -- please stop by -- we'll have something for everyone!

For more info, email info@bridesalamode.com

Christmas in September on WNDU Tomorrow Morning!

Look for the Brides a la mode team tomorrow on Channel 16 in South Bend! We'll be talking about our event & encouraging everyone to come out and support Chris and Mary Monjeau!

Tune in Channel 16 on Tuesday, September 29 at 6:20 a.m. to see and hear more about our event and plan to head over to Brides a la mode between 4-8 p.m. tomorrow for your holiday pictures!

This just in! ProShow DJ has a special offer for attendees at "Christmas in September"

WOW, when we ask our wedding professionals to step up, they STEP UP!

We've been talking and blogging about next Tuesday's fundraiser to help Chris & Mary Monjeau recover some of the items that were stolen from them during a robbery on their wedding day. Our professional photographers will be taking photos that can be used for holiday pictures and we have received lots of great items for raffle.

Jessica and Shawn at ProShow DJ have added this great incentive:

Anyone who books DJ service from ProShow at the event on Tuesday for a wedding, holiday party or other occasion will receive $100 off the total price AND ProShow will donate $25 for each booking to the Monjeaus.

ProShow will be providing the music at our event, so you can talk with them and learn about their services -- if you are considering using a DJ for your event, this is an excellent opportunity to save money AND help Chris and Mary!

Professional Holiday Pictures of your Family at Brides a la mode!

On September 13, 2009, just two months after returning from Iraq, Army Sgt. Chris Monjeau and Mary Smith of South Bend, Ind., said “I do.” Little did they know that the joy of their wedding day would end when they returned home to find that their house had been burglarized, causing them to lose nearly $10,000 worth of electronics, jewelry and other valuable items.

On Tuesday, September 29, area wedding professionals will join together at Brides a la mode to hold a fundraiser for Chris and Mary called “Christmas in September.” The event, taking place from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m., will feature a number of ways the local community can come together to help this couple recover some of what they lost during the robbery.

For a nominal donation of $5 per person or a maximum of $15 per family, professional photographer Matthew Whitlock of Zeta Alpha Studio will take portrait shots which can be used for holiday cards. Hair and make professionals from Nicholas J Salon and Spa , the Beehive Salon, Camellia, the Cosmetic Store and GabGlam will be on hand to ensure everyone in the family looks their best for the pictures. Everyone is encouraged to come dressed for the holidays to get in the Christmas spirit (and to make sure the pictures look right for holiday cards) – it really will look like “Christmas in September” at Brides a la mode!

In addition to the photographs, a number of raffle items will be available throughout the afternoon, including big ticket items such as three hours of DJ service from ProShow DJs, personal photo shoots from OMG and Cathy Dietz Photography and even a $500 catering gift certificate from the Landing Catering – all of which would make an incredible holiday party. A variety of other items such as gift baskets and accessories will be raffled off as well. Complimentary food, drinks and music will be provided by Brides a la mode to make sure everyone is in the holiday mood.

Won't you come and help us help the Monjeau's and celebrate "Christmas in September"?

Looking for a bridesmaid gift? or one for yourself?

You're Invited!

1154 LILL and Brides a la mode invite you to an evening filled with beautiful fabrics and gorgeous handbags!

1154 LILL's custom handbags make the perfect bridesmaid gift...or special treat for yourself!

Stop by Brides a la mode's new digs in City Plaza on September 27 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Browse through hundreds of gorgeous fabrics and lots of purse styles...and see how you can make your very own sassy purse that reflects your personal style! Everyone is invited to attend -- brides, friends, family -- if you love purses, then this event is for you!

Every purse is handmade in Chicago and will arrive at your doorstep approximately 3-4 weeks after you place an order.

All custom handbags ordered on Sept. 27 will enjoy a 10% discount; and if you place a bridal order (5 or more handbags paid in full), you will recieve 15% off! We can only accept debit or credit cards (no cash or checks).

When: September 27, 2009
Time: 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.
Where: Brides a la mode's new location at 1217 E. University Drive, Granger

To reserve a spot or for more information, please contact: mandy.kinnucan@gmail.com.

Preview fabrics or purse styles at

www.1154lill.com

Mark your calendars! Christmas in September

On September 13, 2009, just two months after returning from Iraq, Army Sgt. Chris Monjeau and Mary Smith of South Bend said “I do”. Little did they know that the joy of their wedding day would end when they returned home to find that their home had been burglarized.

Although the wedding industry can be thought of as frivolous, the wedding professionals of Brides a la mode want to give something back to this young man who has served our country.

On Tuesday, September 29, area wedding professionals will join together at Brides a la mode to hold a fundraiser for Chris & Mary called “Christmas in September”. During this event, from 4-8pm at Brides a la mode in Granger's City Plaza we will have all kinds of ways you can celebrate "Christmas in September" and help Chris and Mary recover some of what they lost during the robbery.

Our professional photographers will take portrait shots which can be used for holiday cards and our hair and makeup professionals will make sure everyone in the family looks their best for the pictures. We'll have raffle items including 3 hours of DJ service, food and drink and lots more!

More details will follow soon!

Time lapse video of our Grand UnVEILing...

Matthew Whitlock, one of the wedding photographers at Brides a la mode, took this time lapse video of people coming in and out of our studio during the unVEILing. Pretty cool!

Introducing....

Just when you thought Brides a la mode had made its last announcement:

We are looking forward to continuing the legacy of Bella, an Exceptional Event for Brides at the gorgeous Palais Royale. The date has moved from November to March, and we have quite a few more exciting changes to annouce, so stay tuned.

One thing that won't change is thhe quality of wedding professionals who are excited to present their businesses to brides in the elegant setting of the Palias.

Mark your calendar now for this not-to-be-missed event!

Today's the day!

In 6 short hours we unVEIL our brand new and gorgeous studio in Granger's City Plaza. If you're anywhere in the area, stop by between 1 and 4 pm and prepare to be wowed.

At 1:00 the paper comes off of our windows and everyone can see what we've been up to for the last few weeks. You will be amazed!

In addition to the grand unVEIL, we're hosting a mini-bridal show featuring some of our wedding professionals including:

A Single Rose Florist
A World of Travel
All about Honeymoons
American Espresso Catering
Designs by Ginny
DJ Sticky Boots
Flashy Photo Booths
GabGlam
Indulgence Pastery Shop
K's Creations
Landing Catering
Merry Me! Events
Nicholas J Salon & Spa
OMG Photography
Popcorn By Design
ProShow DJ
Ruth's Chris
S&S PhotoBooth
Spark Fine Papers
The Summer Quartet
Van Horne Jewelers
Wedding Sign Rentals
Zeta-Alpha Studio

So come on over and "Get your Bride on"!

10 Reasons to attend the grand unVEILing

Here are 10 great reasons not to miss the grand unVEILing of the new Brides a la mode Studio on Sunday, September 13 from 1-4 at our new location in City Plaza (across from Ruth's Chris) in Granger:


1. Be one of the first to see our gorgeous new studio


2. Attend the FIRST bridal show of the season, featuring over 20 wedding professionals


3. Hear our "Big News" & learn what is so exciting about March 7, 2010


4. See the latest bridal fashions during a trunk & fashion show by Andrea's Bridal
5. See lighting and decor ideas for your wedding & reception

6. Have some great pictures taken in an S&S Photobooth (we'll supply veils & tiaras)

7. Taste all kinds of flavored popcorn (makes a great wedding favor)

8. Sample delicious food and drink from The Landing

9. Sample coffees, compliments of American Espresso Catering

10. Take a look at fabrics & purses from 1154 LILL and learn how you can make your own

And MUCH, MUCH more. You DON'T want to miss this event!

Another sneak peek

Wouldn't you like to sit back and flip through the latest bridal magazine while sitting here?

Progress at the new studio

.... our outside signs are up on the walkway and LOTS is happening behind those covered windows!

Brides a la mode grand unVEILing - 5 days to go!

Overwhelmed brides will soon have a new place to call home. The Brides a la mode studio on Cleveland Road is closed while we move into a new, larger and more luxurious space in Granger's City Plaza.

On September 13, 2009, Brides a la mode will open the doors (and covered windows) to its new location at 1217 E. University Drive in Granger. The new space is currently “wrapped up” and will be unveiled to reveal a welcoming, luxurious studio that will quickly become a wedding-planning destination for area brides.

The Brides a la mode “Grand UnVEILing” will be held from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at 1217 E. University Drive in City Plaza.

In addition, a number of preferred vendors will be showcasing their products and services as part of Brides a la mode’s monthly “Second Sunday” event. Brides, grooms and their families are cordially invited to check out Brides a la mode’s beautiful new space, stop by the wedding professionals’ displays and even take in a trunk show at Andrea’s Bridal in the same shopping complex.

Just a few of the 20+ wedding professionals participating in the grand unVEILing:

Check back tomorrow for more information on all the fun things happening at the unVEILing! Lots of fun stuff happening!

We're getting everything ready for the official unVEILing of the new location at City Plaza in Granger. What's it going to look like inside? Find out at our event on September 13th, 1 - 4 pm. Many of the area's best wedding professionals will be there. Until then, it's a secret :)

New wedding magazines have arrived!

C'mon over to Brides a la mode! We just received the latest editions of

The Knot

Grace Ormand Wedding Style

Chicago Style Weddings

Have a glass of wine, put your feet up and "get your bride on"!

We're here from 10-6 Tuesday- Friday
10-2 on Saturday

Hope to see you soon!
640 W. Cleveland Road
(inside the Beehive a la mode)

email info@bridesalamode.com for directions!

Wednesday Wedding Professional Spotlight

WE'RE GIVING AWAY TIME!!!

Brides a la mode is pleased to have Time Flies Errand Services as one of our preferred wedding professionals.


Why in the world would an errand service be considered a wedding professional, you might ask.

Here's why:

The days leading up to the wedding can be extremely busy for the bride, groom and their families. Final checks need to be delivered, supplies need to be picked up, items need to be delivered to the reception site, hotel guest gift baskets need to be assembled and delivered... the list goes on.

Why run yourself ragged and add stress to the busiest time of your life when you can outsource the details to a service like Time Flies? For just a few extra dollars, you can enjoy a gift that no one else can give you.... the gift of time!

GIVEAWAY!!!!

Brides a la mode is so excited to have this service as part of of our team of professionals that we are giving away a gift certificate from Time Flies to one lucky Michiana area reader. Just leave a comment here and let us know what YOU would do with an extra hour of time! We'll be awarding the gift certificate next Wednesday, August 19th, so be sure to check back!

This week's advice from our expert

This week, Kathy talks about children at the wedding. Get some ideas on how to make sure your young guests enjoy themselves here.

A Sneak Peek this Second Sunday

On Sunday, August 9, Brides a la mode is offering a sneak preview of our brand new and luxurious home in Granger's City Plaza during our monthly "Second Sunday" event. While the new studio won't open until mid-September, we are excited to give our friends and colleagues an advance look.

Please stop by our new location, just across the street from Ruth's Chris and between Verandah Shoes and J'Ross Salon on Sunday, August 9 between noon and 3 p.m. Trio's Restaurant will be providing food and libations, InTune DJ will be spinning some great tunes, Nicholas J Salon & Spa will be on hand to talk about wedding hairstyles, Monica Z Photography will show their style and give great tips on wedding photography and Time Flies Errand Service will give brides-to-be information on how they can handle those last minute errands during the weeks leading up to the wedding.

Andrea's Bridal, one of our new neighbors, has a very special "Second Sunday" offering for our guests. If you're a bride-to-be you don't want to miss this event!

Looking forward to seeing you on Sunday!

This week's advice from the wedding expert

This week's advice from our resident wedding expert is all about timelines. Are they a pain? or something necessary for a seamless wedding?

Ready all about one experience at Perfect Wedding Solutions blog!

Let us know what YOU think about wedding timelines.

Processionals: Fun or Traditional?

Have you seen this video on YouTube?

Check out our own Kathy Strukel's blog let us know what you think. Should wedding processionals be fun or should they stick to the traditional? Inquiring minds want to know!

Whose wedding is it?

Brides a la mode's wedding expert, Kathy Strukel talks about dealing with wedding venues that don't always put the bride's wishes first. Check it out here

All about receiving lines

Have you been wondering about receiving lines? Are they necessary? Who should be in the line? Where should the line be?

Our resident wedding etiquette expert, Kathy Strukel, has started a blog to help answer your questions about receiving lines and much more. Check it out here.

Do you have questions for our expert? Let us know and we'll make sure to get you the answer!

Candy a la mode

At last week's 2nd Sunday at a la mode, the Brides a la mode team put together this sample candy buffet to give our brides an idea of how they can use candy to carry out their wedding theme colors (ours had a preppy theme) and provide a fun favor for their guests.

Candy buffets are a fun and colorful way to treat your guests and carry out the theme of your wedding. If you decide to use a candy buffet, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Have an assortment of candies, wrapped and unwrapped. 5 or 6 different kinds is ideal
• Use containers that are big enough to let your guests access the candy
• You may need to do some separating to get the colors you want -- it is cheaper to buy a container of mixed colors and take the ones you need.
• Vary the height of your display; use boxes under a pretty linen to create height and use containers of different sizes
• Provide containers for your guests to use; but don't make them too big or your buffet will disappear quickly!
• Add a thank you note to the candy bags
• Consider not displaying the candy buffet until after dinner; we've seen more than one wedding where the candy buffet is nearly empty before the bride and groom arrive.

Have you used a candy buffet? We'd love to see your pictures!