Hey Gorgeous :: One Chick, Her Biz and A Wedding Blog

We've Moved!!!

2011-07-05T08:50:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone!

Come see me over here at the new Hey Gorg :) And don't forget to resubscribe so you don't miss any goodies!! I wasn't sure if everyone would automatically be directed but blogger went back to a blogspot address is the transition and I feel some of you are left wondering what's going on. See you soon!

Xo Rhi

Frustration of Sorts

2011-06-28T09:01:00.000-04:00

Dear Hey Gorg Readers,

It's official. I win schmuck award of the year promising you this fabulous new blog time and time again only to find nothing yet has changed. I had every intention of going live on Sunday but as you can that hasn't happened. Thank you for your patience while I work on getting this figured out; and in the meantime sit tight. Blogger will not let me upload any photos so unfortunately the bloggy is going to remain post-less for a bit. I am so sorry!!

xo Rhi

Friday Wrap Up

2011-06-24T16:41:00.000-04:00

Happy Friday everyone! Did you guys catch this beautiful and playful bridal ballerina shoot over on the Wedding Chicks today? Like I've said before, I just love seeing balloons used in unique new ways and this shoot was no exception. Is there not something about the photo above that makes you wanna jump into the frame to toss around some balloons? And today, well today marks the end of another fabulous week. I don't know about you but this week sort if whizzed by and I can only imagine the weekend will feel the same. Tomorrow I am assisting with the florals at an event and my Sunday will be spent relaxing and staying away from my computer. I mean, trying my best to do the aforementioned. This girl needs to start setting office hours.

In other news, next week I am hoping to have the new Wordpress site up and running. Eeeek! I know I know I keep teasing you guys with this but I promise it's happening so very soon because I am officially done with blogger. I've just been having so many problems with uploading photos and having portions of my posts just disappear that it will be refreshing to have a much more dependable back end and blogging platform. I can't wait to show you guys the new site and I can only hope you'll love it as much as I do. Until then, here's all the fun that happened here this week. It was a short week thanks to a venue scouting trip in Detroit on Monday but believe me; the rest of the week was fun-overload. Catch you all on Monday, beauties!

{Monday} The sweet Jen from Made by Girl featured my finished Girl Cave!
{Tuesday} It's official; this is one of the most popular posts ever on Hey Gorg.
{Wednesday} Big hugs to the Wedding Chicks for featuring my best work yet!
{Friday} How does it feel to be married? Come join in the discussion over here.

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Lovely Links Around the Web

{Baked} How have I never tried this brilliant twist on an old classic?
{Pillows} I'm thinking a few of these will look just lovely on our bed.
{Starbucks} Was the inspiration for this totally rad surprise proposal.
{Minnie} This artist gives a whole new meaning to itsy bitsy kitchen.
{Quote} I'm not a huge wall decal person, but this changed my mind.

FAQ Friday; When You Don't Feel "Married"

2011-06-23T23:09:00.000-04:00

Last month I posted a little cry for help in the FAQ department and I was overly thrilled with the response I got back from you guys. It's official that one of the things I love most about my little blog here is how many of you feel the same as I do about the endless situations I write about. It's nice not to feel so alone sometimes. But anyway here is a little dilemma I received from a reader that I think I totally love. She got married in February and says she doesn't feel "married." She doesn't feel like she's a part of her husband's family and she doesn't feel like a wife. She gets that these types of things are going to feel different to different people but perhaps myself and all of you guys can help her with her newly-wedded woe, no? I think so. Let's do this!

This little problemo first of all, reminds me of the post I did here on what it really means to be a wife. You guys seriously loved that post and I myself, still scroll through and read all of your thoughtful comments (like I said, the more people rowing along in this little boat of mine, the better). In that post I explain how to me, becoming Apb's wife didn't mean my feelings, my role or my expectations changed; but instead the difference (and really the only different in my opinion) was that now, legally we were husband and wife. Should I feel different as we became husband and wife? Maybe. Maybe not. All I know is that at first it felt totally weird to become a wife but still have the same feelings and ultimately the same relationship with Andrew.

There are so many days I wake up now, nearly ten months after our wedding and I too, don't feel married. I think to myself "Whoa whoa whoa, you are married, girlfriend" and I know I am married, I love who I am married to, and I love that we share this union, journey and relationship together it's just that I don't feel it; or is that or this rather, what's it's suppose to feel like? I feel young, and hip and think it's so cool I get to have permasleepovers with this guy I love. I feel happy and I know I am happy. But then the title 'married' and 'husband' and 'wife' sort of slap me wide awake and I think to myself, "Well that's weird Rhi, that you don't feel married cause you are. And if you don't feel like marriage is different then girl, you are cah-razy!"

You know how when you're young, you'd turn another year older and it never failed that one of your relatives would ask "How does it feel to be another year older?" I remember one year after my birthday party I laid in bed that night, totally bummed my birthday was over and I had to wait a.whole.other.year.till.the.next.partay, but thinking super hard about that question and how it really did feel, like physically, emotionally and mentally, to be nine years old versus only eight. And I got really frustrated super fast because I felt nothing, except too much birthday cake in my stomach. Ask me the same question now at age 25 and maybe I could tell you what it felt like to be eight then but you catch my drift. Hind sight is 20/20 isn't it?

So my thoughts are this; when you don't feel married is that normal? Do some of you out there feel married and if so can you explain what that means? Does feeling married become something you feel with time or is it something that select people feel and others don't? Do you brides to be out there have expectations that after your wedding you will feel something uniquely different? I (and one of my readers here!) would love to hear your thoughts. Photo by Amanda Wilcher.

Romantic Michigan Wedding by Julie Harmsen Photography {Lindsey + Ryan}

2011-06-22T10:12:00.001-04:00

One of the things I first told myself when I started my business, was never to forget how important it is to maintain solid relationships with my clients, long after fulfilling my role as their wedding planner. I tell my clients, that as much as they are making a financial investment in me and instilling an enormous amount of faith in my services, I too make an extremely large emotional investment in them; and do my best to find that tricky balance between wedding professional and wow-that-girl-with-the-clip-board-really-does-super-duper-care-about-us-as-people-and-not-just-clients. I want to be there for them physically, and mentally, and the bottom line is, I love my clients. More than anything, I want them to shine on their big day.

Lindsey and Ryan came into my life not too long ago when I was asked to help with their wedding. I told Linds in our first few emails that she'd be getting married the day after my birthday; and she wrote back "Awesome! I'm getting married on my birthday." And just like that I knew there was something about Linds, something that I knew I was going to love long after the last guest would go home the night of her wedding. I knew it then and I really know it now but Lindsey and Ryan, you both make me feel so incredibly lucky to do what I do. Your wedding was absolutely magical, the most perfect reflection of your love and it was an honour being a part of it. Thank you for believing in me, for being so kind and most of all, for being you.

To check out Lindsey and Ryan's big day, head over the the Wedding Chicks blog where the sweet Amy and Jocey are showing off all of the eye candy today (thank you so much, girls!) And I must add none of this would have been possible without the talent and hard work of Julie from Julie Harmsen Photography. I'm not sure if you remember my little shriek fest via Twitter when I found out I'd be working with Julie, but the good news is she's like 32074x as sweet in real life as she is in my imagination. Thanks Julie for the fabulous evening and stunning images. I can't wait to see you in just a few short weeks!

Shall we start the day off with some fabulously "something blue" Badgley Mischka heels? Why, of course!

Signature drink: Haterade. Recipe: Equal parts lemonade, vodka, and sprite. Garnished with a candy lemon slice. Yes please.

Lindsey's Dad, Buck (who may I add is such a sweet Dad and totally told Linds to just relax and let me do my job :) was a pilot back in the day. The stickers, pins and buttons in the vintage suitcase actually belonged to him during his career. And the vintage suitcases that were used to house the newlywed's cards belonged to Lindsey's Mom when she first went off to college (uhm I think I needed a uHaul to get myself off to college in one piece.) And all of the postcards in the top suitcase were ones that Ryan had sent to Lindsey over the many years of their long distance relationship. I know, major cuteness right here.

Linds and her Dad, Buck were so sweet with one another all day. I definitely had tears in my eyes when they walked down the aisle together. Lindsey and Ryan decided not to do a First Look (ohmygosh I can't believe I am saying this but I think I am starting to lean more in favor of the traditional 'walk down the aisle for a first look' version) and instead had an hour and a half cocktail hour to give them plenty of time for photos and mingling with their guests. They really got the best of both worlds.

Making it official. And swooning over those to die for bridesmaid's bouquets against charcoal gray bridesmaid's frocks.

Belle, the floral dog. She did so well! And that fur coat? Belonged to Lindsey's Grandmother. Sweet, right?

I love this next little series. The light that afternoon was absolutely perfect and Lindsey's veil (which was the same one her Mother wore on her own wedding day years ago) made for some stunning photos. Linds and Ryan please get this one photo made into a canvas because it is far too fab-u-lous for words! And if you don't I may have to. Which could be a tad awkward.

Pink nails. And a bouquet sent down from the flower Gods. It's official. I really may have to get a canvas myself.

After a little cocktail party it was on to le dinner. Have I told you how much I adore those brass chandeliers at the Kent Country Club? Here let me tell you. I love, like love those brass chandeliers. They're so vintage chic and gave the room that little extra va va voom for dinner time. I sort of secretly wished that guests could take em home as favors at the end of the night (and by guests I really only mean the wedding planner). Gail from GVL Floral did all the stunning arrangements and various centerpieces; as always she was a complete pleasure to work with. Guests also got to take home the pussy willow, ranunculus, and rose adorned arrangements at the end of the night which was a huge hit. Believe me. I was there and I saw people's faces light up when I said they were ready for a new home! One minor adorable detail too; in lieu of favors the newlyweds made a donation to the Humane Society and then named each one of their guests tables after dogs that are up for adoption; I giggled setting up the table names when I came across names like "Skittles" and "Topanga." A little Boy Meets World, anyone?

Linds really wanted the cake set up to feel much like a console table of family photos that you'd find in someones home. Wedding photos of parents, siblings and great grandparents from both Lindsey and Ryan's sides of the family, sat on either side of the three-tiered spice cake that sat atop an old vintage table. Did I tell you all how tasty that cake was? Oh no? Well it was tasty my friends. I can never ever resist a piece of wedding cake. Ever.

And because no wedding is complete without a stuffed owl (inside joke) and a surprise birthday cake (obviously).

I also owe a ginormous thank you and hug to Kara, my sweet assistant who helped orchestrate such an incredibly smooth event. She was on top of everything and anything when I needed her and I cannot express how much it meant to me to have her there working with me; I am crossing my fingers that this was only the first of many weddings working with Kara. Cause let's face it, are we not the best stand-in bridesmaids you've ever seen?

Head over here and here today to check out the rest of the photos and a complete vendor list from Lindsey and Ryan's big day!

The Girl Cave

2011-06-21T00:10:00.001-04:00

Eeeek! Guys, I am so totally happy to finally share all of these photos with you :) I know some of you have seen the amazing feature that the sweet Jen put together over at Made By Girl. But I too wanted to share the beautiful photos Jenna McKenzie took because I have loved 'em to pieces since the moment I got them back. Looking back on all of my Girl Cave progress posts from the past few months (which you can find here, here and here) it seems like I've really talked this space up; so I am hoping that these photos fill your expectations and more. And I hope all you chicks out there find the inspiration to morph a space in your home, into the perfect cave for you. Thank you so much, Jen! Big hugs. And Jenna, you're a rockstar. Xo

Like I mentioned over at Made By Girl, I've since traded out the blue nailhead chair for two purple-gray armless versions (which are pretty rad), and flip flopped the furniture in my office to better accommodate clients and guests. But I have to say I just love that blue chair and thought it was an awesome purchase for $299 (HomeGoods). It currently sits in our bedroom. The silver lamp base is from Ikea and the white lampshade is from Target. The zebra carpet which has quickly become one of my most favorite details in the room, is from Overstock and was a deal at $180. And remember those white acrylic chairs I told you all that I hated? Well I bought the carpet once I returned the chairs. The white waste basket was $9 from HomeGoods and is used to house my wrapping paper and ribbon. It's a fun little detail that adds a little colour to the room.

My desk is the Josephine desk from World Market, and was on sale for $170 when I bought it back in February. It has a few chips and scratches on it now from bumping it into things during our move, but I adore it because it looks like a cross between West Elm's Parsons Desk (which I wanted so badly but couldn't justify buying) and a desk I loved over at Crate and Barrel. The drawer doesn't open nearly far enough but I love my desk and hope to use it for at least the new few years. My silver cake stands are from Target and my gold rimmed blue tumblers are from a vintage shop downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan. The white book case is from Ikea (and is such a versatile piece). The white rhino head was a birthday present from my husband for my 25th birthday; remember how badly I wanted this guy? He's from Z Gallerie, and my turquoise geometric print dress is from Lulus. The silver gymnast statue was a birthday gift from my sweet Mum, when I was growing up.

I just love having that pink wall. It's totally my fave thing in our apartment (I don't remember the colour but it's a Martha hue). My gray desk chair is from World Market and is actually a dining room chair. It was on sale for $100. The pink cake stands are from Marshalls. The white bowl is vintage, as are the sea foam green wall hooks. The Mrs hanger is from LilaFrances on etsy and is from our wedding. The green floral print and pink Greek key pillows were hand sewn by me and the white pillow is a ring bearer pillow from Hobby Lobby. The pink flower stud earrings are from Forever 21 (Christina, I know you asked :) and the milk glass vases are vintage etsy. My curtains are from Target and are clipped back to the wall because they are too long. And I'm too lazy to sew 'em. And they're clipped to the wall with thumbtacks. That's how I roll, people.

Be jealous of my peonies. Sometimes I find myself staring intently at them for long periods of time. And you can be a little jealous of my vintage teal tea cart too. I love that it doesn't really match anything in the entire room; except my blue tumblers. One day I'll use the cart and the tumblers to start a really cool mini bar but until then it houses my craft supplies. And it's pretty to look at.

Keep Calm and Hey Gorg On, blogettes. I don't care what everyone seems to say these days about these posters becoming cliche. I love my custom Keep Calm print; it was custom framed at Hobby Lobby. The silver frame on the white shelf is a vintage find and the canvas of the bouquet is from my first Inspiration Shoot and the one that Style Me Pretty featured on Valentines Day. My floral dress is from Forever 21 and the wire letter "R" is Anthropologie. Gray cardigan from Express.

And because everyone loves a good Before and After...

One more just for kicks:

And proof that Girl Cave's make you really happy. See?

Oh and because this little guy works overtime to keep me company all day and night, I had to include some him in here too!

Hugs, everyone!

Friday Wrap Up

2011-06-17T15:55:00.000-04:00

Happy Friday blogettes! It was a jam packed week over here with so many lovely features I can hardly wait for Monday again. Because Monday is all about this stunning wedding above from Amanda K Photo Art; just you wait for all the gorgeousness. From the rad bridal party, the stunning bride, the insanely creative reception backdrop; really I am running out of adjectives to describe my true felings on this wedding so you'll have to sit tight over the weekend. I'll be in Detroit scouting out venues for a 2012 bride but tell me, what are all of you up to this Father's Day weekend? In the meantime here's a little recap for you all! xo

{Monday} Kick started the week with this darling First Anniversary paper-themed shoot.

{Tuesday} Probably one of the fiercest e-sessions I've ever featured graced the blog here.

{Pep-Talk} Seems to be the Blogging Blues sort of happen to the best of us in blog land.

{Wednesday} Fruits + veggies + a bunny in an orchard = the most stunning photos eva.

{Thursday} Brought us this dreamy and simplistic 'Love in New York City' photo shoot.

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Lovely Links Around the Web

{Cool Aid} I finally took a sip, guys. And am officially pin it to win it. So lame. So true.

{Checkmate} The perfect gift for chess loving wine drinkers. Like my sweet sweet Dad.

{Insane} Was what I thought when I saw this; I can only only imagine what guests said!

{I'm Loving} These beautiful handmade goodies. A little whimsy, a whole lot of pretty.

{Balloons} Hundreds and hundreds of big colourful balloons. I swear, it'll never get old.

Love in NYC Shoot by Fondly Forever Photography

2011-06-16T00:00:00.003-04:00

Cute little cupcake? Check. Balloons? Check. Pretty flowers, dreamy light and one crazy awesome Brooklyn rooftop? Check x3. I just love how this session from Fondly Forever Photography, above all else, makes me feel. Jen said the vision for the shoot was a roof top bridal session full of simple and pretty details, and light and airy colours. She and her best friend, McKenzie from McKenzie Miller Films, contrasted that with the designs and lines of the New York City skyline and I have to say they nailed it. There's just something so carefree and soothing about the simplicity here. Be sure to check out the video from the shoot too. It's like something out of a dream (much like yesterday's shoot). Enjoy your Thursday, blogettes!

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Photographer: Fondly Forever Photography / Videographer: McKenzie Miller Films / Dress and headband: H&M / Shoes: model's own / Balloons: Party City / Cupcake: Cupcakeland / Flowers: corner store in Greenpoint

Spring Inspired Shoot by Simply Bloom Photography

2011-06-15T01:22:00.000-04:00

You know what's funny, blogettes? I have a blogging bucket list. I've always thought bucket lists were rather daunting when it came to life as a whole, but making a bucket list (or rather, a fancy-titled list of goals) that pertain to this little blog here, was totally a ton of fun and really has helped me stay motivated and inspired. One of the things on that list of mine has always been to feature an exclusive shoot and wedding from my most fave photogs of all time, the sweet Christine and Vania from Simply Bloom. Imagine how fabulous it was then, to get this submission from them with news that it would be exclusive to Hey Gorg? I probably celebrated that day with a Starbucks. A Starbucks Venti that is. Then proceeded to tell Christine and Vania that they were already hired for my maternity session (all of this coming from a girl who never wants kids. I've lost my mind).

Enough about me though because this shoot is way too gorgeous for words. The thing about Simply Bloom is not only does every single shot look like something sent from above, but these chicks have an acute sense of style that makes even bunnies, fruits and veggies look downright stunning. Check out some of my fave shots below and to catch more fabulousness from these two head over to the Simply Bloom blog where I promise you find yourself submerged in pure prettiness. Christine and Vania, thank you from the bottom of my heart! I can't wait for you to one day shoot my belly; emphasis on the one day part :)

{About the shoot, from Simply Bloom} When we dreamed up this session we had major spring fever. Everything seemed on the verge of birth. We were inspired by Caravaggio's Bacchus for this spring-themed shoot and incorporated real fruit, a rabbit, and a hand-crafted headpiece overflowing with fruits and extravagant florals - an important element in Caravaggio's paintings. We appropriately held the shoot in an orchard at its flowered peak. While we were working to bring our vision to life, we knew we needed a powerful and meaningful colour palette. Our favorite resource for color and inspiration boards is always Magnolia Rouge; we chose this gorgeous board as a starting point:

What do you think, guys? Pretty spectacular right? Enjoy your morning :) xo

Pep-Talk Tuesday {The Blogging Blues}

2011-06-14T12:55:00.000-04:00

I had this post on my mind for a while now. Just finding the right time to spell out my feelings in a way that wouldn't come across as whiny, was tough. But today when I found it hard to drag my little butt out of bed and when husband brought me breakfast, then refused to bring me lunch to the bedroom too, I figured I had a little bit of a problem on my hands; I may be suffering from a mild case of the blogging blues.

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Everyone has their own reasons for blogging and for some, there's more than one main reason. Yet, it can be tough to maintain a sense of purpose and a sense of acceptance from your blogging peers when it seems like everyone and their Mom (seriously, I mean this in the most literal ways possible) has started a blog. Blogging is the new facebook. An accessory to some, a way for others to claim their chunk of Internet real estate. Sometimes blogging feels like I'm swimming in an overcrowded pool of bloggers; I'm not drowning but instead grazing other's legs as they too try to tread and maintain their position on the surface. Then all of a sudden, 50 new swimmers cannon ball into the pool. And you know what happens next. Blogging can feel like a fight to the surface, like you need to kick a little harder to avoid getting trampled by the new swimmers.

Remember in high school when you'd get dressed in the morning in your brand new jeans and top, heading off to school feeling like a million bucks? Only to get there and see that that much prettier, smarter and more poplar friend of yours was sporting an even better new outfit, leaving you in turn feeling defeated, left out, maybe even reconsidering why you even bought your new digs in the first place. I feel like this with blogging sometimes. When I look at my blog, and my blog only, I feel a great sense of accomplishment. For more than two years I've groomed this little babe into something that's become my full time job, my purpose and my calling. But then I look around at the gazillion others, who in much less time have more followers, more pictures of themselves and their girlfriends, better submissions, prettier posts, more happiness it seems (all while they make it look so effortless) and I think, what could I have done differently?

The answer is, I think nothing. This whole comparison game is all too familiar (remember the comparison game I played here?) And in short, comparison is the road to madness. Apb gets on my case daily about my little pity parties because they probably drive him nutty. Actually they do drive him nutty because I know how they make me feel. Close friends (you know who you are and I adore you) continually sing praises to me in an effort to either shut me up or allow me to realize I am fabulous the way I am (or perhaps both). And me? Well, these bouts of the blogging blues are a sign that I care. That I really truly care about this blog, what's its been, where it's going and what it represents to me and the thousands of you that read it everyday regardless of how boring you may find me or the content here. That if I didn't feel the need to be better, to grow, to learn, to stay inspired and on top of myself personally and professional then these blogging blues wouldn't exist; and I am a firm believer in going through a little bit of bad to feel a whole lot of good.

Jenna McKenzie took these fun little shots of me. I asked her to capture the real me. I think she did just that xo

Anyone else out there ever feel the Blogging Blues?

Urban Anthro Inspired E-session by Rachelle Rousseau Photography

2011-06-14T08:57:00.000-04:00

There's not much I can say about this super rad engagement session sent over by the always fabulous Rachelle Rousseau. The photos are so cool and hip and simply gorg. And not only do Susie and Dan have the most stylish wardrobe ever, but they have this sweet sweet love for one another. In just two weeks these two will be getting married and I can only image how beautiful their big day will be. P.S. Susie and Dan, you guys live in my hometown! Big hugs to you both back in Burlington :)

And this my friends is my most fave e-session picture of all time. Simply amazing!

{Susie & Dan's Love Story} Dan and I met when we were 20 at Snug Harbour Restaurant in Port Credit, Ontario. I was bartending while Dan was sitting behind the bar eating some oysters! Dan and I definitely kept checking each other out but I never really thought anything of it. I came into work the next day only to find out from my boss that a "young gentleman" was coming back into see me that night! I had no idea who he was referring to, but I knew as soon as I saw him sitting at the bar again. I finished work earlier that night and joined him behind the bar for a drink. We had an instant connection and spent every minute of the day together for the next four days. After four days of knowing each other, Dan and I both had to get back to reality. I went off to college and Dan went to finish up his last year of junior hockey. We kept in contact for that whole year and began dating as soon as we both returned for the summer. Shortly after dating for four months I moved to Hartford, Connecticut where Dan was starting his first year of pro hockey. Dan and I got engaged after three years of dating while we were on vacation with our families in Pawleys Island, South Carolina. The proposal took place on the beach right at sunset. Dan got down on his knees and asked if I would "spend the rest of my life with him." My answer of course was YES! We bought a house two years ago in Burlington, as well, we are living in Germany nine months of the year where Dan plays hockey. Dan and I are getting married June 25th 2011 at Greystone Golf Club in Milton, Ontario.

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Photography: Rachelle Rousseau / Suzie's red dress, purple plaid shirt, purple and yellow tube top: Antropologie / Silver shoes: Vera Wang / Bracelet: David Yurman / Jeans: William Rast / Brown boots: True Religion / Black shirt: Hugo Boss Orange / Dan's shoes: Steve Madden / Watch: TW Steel / Dan's plaid shirt: Dolce and Gabbana / Black running shoes: D Squared / Light blue shirt: Lulu Lemon / Grey shirt: Scotch and Soda

First Anniversary Paper Shoot by Courtney Dellafiora

2011-06-12T23:35:00.000-04:00

Happy Monday everyone! Hopefully you all had super rad weekends celebrating the official start of summer. I think I'm finally starting to feel like I'm back in the swing of things. Last week was so crazy busy with my girl cave shoot on Monday (which was so incredibly fun) and the inspiration shoot up north (which was also so incredibly fun), that when I woke up Thursday, I thought it was Saturday. And on Friday I was telling people Happy Monday. Ugh how embarrassing right? Suffice to say, I was a hot mess and ended up taking a few naps throughout the weekend to get myself back on track. That and a nice Sunday afternoon at the Bucks. So sit tight I have an entire week of pretty posts prepared for you all! Starting with this one right here.

Which leads me to explain: The first thing I thought after all the excitement came to an end following our wedding, was how can I feel like there's something big and blog-worthy to look forward to? (Before you go thinking I'm all selfish and stuff just hear me out, guys). Like most girls, and especially as a wedding blogger, getting back my professional wedding photos was one of the highlights of post-marital bliss, and once that was all said and done, I was itching to get engaged all over again just to have another engagement session. But whose kidding who, that wasn't going to happen. Enter this adorable and clever shoot idea sent over from Courtney Dellafiora; why not celebrate your first anniversary (you know, the one that's all about paper) with a fun photo shoot? Obviously, I'm all over this wicked idea. Scroll on to catch the amazing details prepared by the gorgeous Deirdra, who happens to be Courtney's wonderful assistant. This is one post you'll want to bookmark, blogettes! xo

{From the beautiful, Deirdra} The inspiration from this shoot started with the concept of our first anniversary being another chapter in Duston and I's Love Story. We met in college and have really gotten the opportunity to grow with one another from college life, starting our first careers, getting engaged, making the commitment of a lifetime together, and now living out our life dreams with one another. I wanted the shoot to capture the chapter of our first anniversary by having a very soft, passionate setting. On your first anniversary, you are supposed to give paper gifts to one another (a boudoir album was definitely the best paper gift ever to give him!) Therefore, I wanted to try and incorporate paper into the shoot as much as possible. Some of the paper items I created up for the shoot were: paper flowers for the bouquet, boutonniere and vases which were jars wrapped in paper doilies, tissue balls to hand from the ceiling of the barn, paper doilies found under the desserts and place settings; a paper umbrella used for a prop, and awesome paper invitations, menu cards, dessert cards, and banners were made by Lauren VanZandt. The set included many items borrowed from my grandmother and mother which made it even more personal as each of the tea pots, plates, platters and some furniture had meaningful history behind it. I do not think our love story could have been captured any more perfectly then by the one and only Courtney Dellafiora, and I hope that she captures the many chapters that lie ahead in our lives. (To see the rest of the beautiful shots from their shoot head over here).

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Photography: Courtney Dellafiora / Hair/Makeup: Courtney Davis, Kiki's Consulting / Paper Goods: Lauren VanZandt, Everyday's a Soirée / Deirdra's dress: Bustle / Couch: The Estate Center / Bouquet, boutinniere, decorations, hairpieces: Deirdra Doré / Bowtie: XOELLE

Rustic Elegance Inspiration Shoot {Sneak Peak}

2011-06-12T15:53:00.000-04:00

Last week, I had the pleasure of coordinating and styling an inspiration shoot up in Traverse City, Michigan. The fabulous Tonya, flew in from New Mexico to shoot the entire thing and her and I spent three days getting to and from Crooked Creek Ranch; I think we were in my Jetta for close to 500 miles in total. Let's just say we're pretty good buddies now! The photos turned out beautiful, and the above doesn't even do justice to our sweet models, the incredibly jaw-dropping florals, the sweet favours and pretty paper products, the stunning venue, the gorgeous cake, the dress, oh my gosh that dress. And I could go on and on and on. Once we find out where all of the photos will be shown you can bet I'll have a full recap for you all but for now hopefully the above shot will hold you over. Team Crooked Creek Ranch? I heart you all. Thanks for the wonderful day! xo

Spring Inspired Beauty by Shannon Grant Photography

2011-06-08T00:00:00.002-04:00

While your little self is reading this blog post, yours truly is making a five hour trek up to northern Michigan for an Inspiration Shoot I've been planning since February. Can I can three cheers for that? You can bet all the money to your name, I'll be stopping for multiple venti lattes along the way (we're talking almost 350 miles of traveling in one day here people), but I can promise you that it'll be worth the three days journey around the entire state. The fabulous Tonya flew in from New Mexico last night (now that's dedication!), we're off to pick up the florals and voila, we'll be in styled shoot heaven by this afternoon.

In other news, I love me some Shannon Grant, guys. Like seriously, isn't her work is just so darn pretty? She sent me over this fabulous shoot a few weeks ago and since then, I've been dying to show it off. Don't get me wrong, I love a shoot filled to the brim with steal-worthy ideas and wedding decor inspiration, but a shoot with inspiration on how to look your bridal best, is a bunch of wonderful all of its own. Check out all of these gorgeous gowns, hair styles and make up that you too can use for your own big day (hello, long eyelashes!) Happy Wednesday, blogettes. See you all tomorrow for some more gorgeousness!

{More about the shoot, from Shannon the photographer} In celebration of our New England winter finally coming to an end, we orchestrated this editorial styled photo shoot "From the Estate with Love." Our goals were to capture the feeling we get when Spring is approaching and love is in the air. Serenity mixed with unbridled optimism. Giddiness laced with a calm peace. The feeling that everything is right with the world and the possibilities are endless.

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Photography: Shannon Grant Photography / Hair/Makeup: Jeni Teran / Dresses: Angels Bridal / Models: Erica Pires and Kimberly Giardino

St. Louis E-session by Clary Photo

2011-06-07T14:22:00.000-04:00

The colours, the love these two have for another, those red pants. Red pants! Come on now, people. Every man needs a pair of red pants, no? I think that I adore everything about this sweet little engagement session sent over from Clary Photo. Including Alice, the couple's dog named appropriately after 'Alice in Wonderland.' Admit it you're all really dying to see these two love birds in their wedding day glory as much as I am. Enjoy the rest of the photos and whatever you do today do it wonderfully xo

{Mary Catherine and Joe's Love Story} Joe and I went to the same high school, but didn't start dating until after we graduated. With him being a senior, and me being a freshman, he was 'too old'. My first year of high school, I met Joe's sister, Maria, and we quickly became best friends. Joe takes complete credit for this, and says he made Maria and I become friends so he would get to see me ;) Around the time I was finishing up high school, the three of us hung out once or twice before it quickly turned into just Joe and I hanging out. We had our first date at the Art Museum and outdoor ice skating rink in Forest Park, which is where these pictures were taken. We can't thank our amazing photographer enough, Clary Pfeiffer, for taking these gorgeous pictures in our of our favorite places in St. Louis!

Confetti Dreams

2011-06-07T09:31:00.000-04:00

I've always had dreams of blowing pretty hued confetti into the air. So yesterday I finally did. And it was glorious. I can now promise you that nothing compares to the magic of watching itty bitty pieces of fun float so slowly into the blue sky. More to come from the lovely Jenna McKenzie who captured my girl cave and yours truly yesterday afternoon. I am one happy girl xo

Classic Chicago Wedding by Simply Jessie Photography

2011-06-06T00:02:00.002-04:00

Happy Monday gorg-ettes! You know lately, I've been seeing a lot of these minimalistic and simple weddings and I have to admit, I'm really starting to dig em. This Chicago celebration sent over from the wonderful Jessie and Eric Stevens from Simply Jessie Photography, is no exception either; it's oozing with genuine love and classic simplicity (yes, those are Valentino peep toes adorned with bows and yes I'd like a pair for myself, please). Salina and Chris said their vows in a Frank Lloyd Masterpiece in Oakpark, Illinois on May 21st and while all of those fluffy white peonies are enough to make a girl weak in the knees, you have to admit the beautiful bride truly stole the show (here's a fun fact for you too: that pretty little cake came straight from a bakery that's been family owned on the groom's side since 1952.) Catch you all later this afternoon!

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Photography: Simply Jessie Photography / Ceremony venue: Unity Temple / Reception Venue: Oak Park Country Club / Flowers: Fleur / Dress: Pronovias Rosa Clara / Menswear: Joseph Abboud / Bridesmaids dresses: Simple Silhouettes / Bride's shows: Valentino / Jewelry: Ippolita / Bridesmaid's bracelets: J. Crew / Bridesmaid's earrings: Monet / Cake: Domino's Pastries / Invites: Paper Champagne / Hair: Laura Lister

Friday Wrap Up

2011-06-03T09:49:00.000-04:00

Happy Friday blogettes! Here we are at yet another weekend already and it feels so good, doesn't it? I have one of my best friend's from home visiting me in Michigan for the next few days and we have a weekend planned full of girl time, relaxation and catching up to do; I can't believe the last time we saw one another was Christmas! Husband has graciously offered to sleep on the couch while us girls play catch up (and I admit maybe do a little snuggling), the weather is supposed to be beautiful this weekend and said girlfriend loves to shop; which is perfect since I do too. Amen to that. Things could get messy over here.

Monday is the girl cave's big photo shoot debut and believe me I am over the moon excited to finally get this room shown off. I'm also looking forward to having some fun new shots of me for the new blogsite. And Wednesday is our huge inspiration shoot up north that I've been working on since February. I'm already like totally dying to share pics; even though they haven't even been taken yet. Uh how does that work? Whatevs. You know what I mean. Here's the awesomeness that went down this week. And more from that stunner of a couple above photographed by Simply Jessie, on Monday. Exciting stuff, right friends?

{Monday} DIY Couples Counselling. Hands down, my most fave tutorial yet :)

{The Biz} Style Me Pretty's Abby and Tait Larson even commented on this one.

{Tuesday} Dreamy light, Anthro threads and sweet, sweet love in this e-session.

{Wednesday} A peaches and cream bridal shower with steal-worthy inspiration.

{Thursday} This week brought a new Expert Files edition; and it's all about veils.

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Lovely Links Around the Web

{Cute} Is the only word to describe where I am taking my girlfriend today.

{Found} The holy grail of shoes. Cute, cheap and need-em-like-now shoes.

{Scrabble} Pillows. I need these also please. In some clever word formation.

{Bedroom} Is where I will be putting my new confetti system garland. Sigh.

{Buttons} Sent via a sweet reader, how fun would these be at your wedding?

What is everyone up to this weekend? I'd love to know!

The Expert Files {All About Veils}

2011-06-02T11:00:00.000-04:00

When I first started wedding planning, I was pretty adamant I wouldn't dare wear a veil on our wedding day. Yet the minute I placed one on my little head I was instantly smitten; and for a while contemplated buying the veil first, and then the dress second since I first found this stunner of a mantilla. Then I ended up buying a different veil a year before our wedding only to return it to buy a cathedral weeks before the big day, then last minute exchanged it for the lace-trimmed fingertip veil you've all seen in my photos. Sigh. It's official I love veils. And with that I am extremely excited to welcome the gorgeous (yeah that's her above, be jealous) and talented Tessa Kim to the blog to spill anything and everything veil-related. Read on for more, below!

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{Tell me about you and your business} I created my business when I was planning my own DIY 2009 August wedding to my lovely husband Choon. I really just fell into it though when I was looking for the perfect birdcage veil and fascinator and was not having any luck. I'm a crafty person so I started making a few different styles of veils and flowers fascinators which brought me to etsy since I had many more veils than I actually needed and I thought I would put them up for sale; just to see what would happen. They sold out the next day and from there I kept creating more and then slowly expanded the styles and options of my veils. I now carry a huge selection of birdcage veils, bridal veils, flower facinators, feather hair combs, head bands and dress sashes. All my headpieces and veils are hand dyed/painted and the headpieces are also hand cut/shaped with a vintage millinery iron. I also like to incorporate vintage millinery aspects to all of my pieces for a unique look.

{Should a bride pick her gown based off a veil or vice versa?} I think it depends on the individual bride. For myself, I knew I wanted to wear a birdcage veil no matter what so I made sure to find a dress that complimented that style. Although since there are so many types of veils and materials that can be used I believe you can always find a complimenting veil for any dress.

{Traditionally, what's the meaning behind a veil?} There are a few different meanings behind the classic bridal veil although it depends on who you ask. Some people believe that it was meant to represent the innocence of the bride, some believe that it is used to shield the beauty of the bride before the groom married her and others believe that it is bad luck for the groom to see the bride before exchanging vows. There are unlimited styles of veils like a birdcage, blusher, mantilla, flyaway and a traditional chapel, cathedral, fingertip, and elbow veil, that all offer different looks to compliment different gowns and weddings.

{What alternatives are there for brides who want a less traditional bridal look?} There are so many options for brides today who do not want to go the traditional route. A few of the choices would be a floral headpiece, a bridal hat, a tulle and veiling puff, a mini veil, a feather hair comb, a simple headband, bridal hair pins, a simple rhinestone brooch comb, a decorative comb, even a decorative piece of lace. Right now I am in love with one of my newest floral headpieces "Grace." It's a double flower fascinator that is cream, blush and ivory in colour. It also has vintage millinery leaves from the 1940s which I just adore.

{What trends are you predicting this summer and fall, and what do you believe will forever remain timeless?} I believe you will start to see a lot more colour being incorporated into bridal headpieces. I also believe the statement pieces will still be popular although complimented with smaller and more dainty hair combs. And it never goes out of style to be yourself and not always go with the trends. Make sure to be comfortable with the style of accessories you choose and truly love them :)

Thanks so much, Tessa for stopping by the blog! And all of you can check out Tessa's website and shop for more information, items and goodness. Top photos by Deyla Huss and product photos by Candice Benjamin.

Why Styled Shoots Won't Ever Fade Away

2011-06-01T14:14:00.001-04:00

I find that one of the tough parts of having a blog and a business that work hand in hand is trying to justify your own way of doing things. One person may tweet this and one may blog that and all of a sudden you might stop in your tracks only to find yourself reevaluating your goals, your plan of action, your way of making things work for you. I know that as much as I believe whole heartedly in myself, as a newcomer to the industry I often find myself overwhelmed with the amount of learning I have yet to do. However there is one thing I am sure of.

One stat that has emerged from engage11 and really has me feeling slightly defeated is that "brides are not embracing styled shoots." (I do realize this is a convention for luxury brides which is a clientele I am not trying to reach out to). As someone who was once up to her eyeballs in endless amounts of 'inspirational' wedding photos during my engagement, I can see both sides of this discussion. For brides with tight budgets and limited resources it's defeating to see perfectly styled shoots knowing you'll never be able to create something as structured. And I totally get that a real wedding where a ceremony takes place and a union is made, where there's an actual guest list and a meal being served is extremely different logistically than say a styled shoot organized by a planner/florist/designer/photographer. I agree that no wedding vendor should ever advertise to potential clients that these shoots are in fact real weddings. Because well, they're not.

However. And this is a big however. When you go into business as a wedding stylist and coordinator or start a business venture with goals of styling events (i.e. designing the aesthetics of a wedding and making your design concept come to life on the big day), and you have yet to build a portfolio, have zero proof of your talents, haven't had the opportunity to showcase your abilities, or even worse, have actually booked clients but they haven't given you full reign to style their event to reflect your talents - then where is an aspiring wedding stylist to turn to? What about wedding stylists and coordinators who are trying to set forth new trends, trying to freshen up their portfolio, trying to work with new talent in the industry? What are they suppose to do? When I officially started Hey Gorgeous Events just eight months ago I had only my wedding photos for my portfolio. Which is great. But I knew I'd need something more to add to my portfolio to speak to brides.

Inspiration shoots are a lot of work. But speaking from a stylist's point of view, they are in my opinion one of the best ways to showcase the talents of various vendors and hands down, until you can lock in brides who trust your vision entirely, one of the only ways to have complete control over the creativity that goes into creating wedding-type portfolio images. And while there's no guests eating and drinking and celebrating at a styled shoot, there are still time constraints, unpredictable weather conditions, vendors who cancel last minute, scheduling conflicts, flowers, invitations, cake, decor, a venue, a photographer, a model, a gown, accessories, favors, a videographer involved (and the list goes on and on) that are just as real as they would be at a 'real wedding.' And that is why I 100% believe in styled shoots. And will continue to do them.

The stylist in me doesn't spend months preparing for inspiration shoots and collaborating with 12 plus vendors with the mindset that my efforts are strictly for potential clients. Instead I create these opportunities for myself, and for the others who instill their faith in me to organize such endeavors, because I enjoy doing so. That and it's an amazing networking opportunity for all involved AND most importantly, these shoots allow us the freedom to showcase our work, talents and abilities. Which in turn ends up being both a benefit for us and a benefit for potential clients or brides who will forever as long as the industry exists, be on the look out for new inspiration. A win win for all.

I'd love to hear from both brides to be and stylists below! Please play nice.
Above photo by Beth Kaye, from my first inspiration shoot. That helped launch my business.

Peaches and Cream Bridal Shower by Elizabeth Kaye

2011-06-01T10:51:00.000-04:00

Morning guys! Today I have a sweet little treat for you; a peaches and cream themed bridal shower sent over from my lovely friend and photog extraordinaire, Elizabeth Kaye. I absolutely love when brides hire a photographer to capture their bridal shower because from what I remember my own shower was one of the most memorable days of my life. Then when a bride goes above and beyond to get crafty and carry out a theme throughout the whole celebration (an adorable theme might I add) the results are too delicious for words. Even better, those little peach drinks with the peach ring garnishes? I do believe that was the signature drink at our own wedding! After you scroll through the photos check out all the helpful cost-saving and planning tips from the beautiful bride to be, Sabrina. Enjoy your Wednesday blogettes; be back later this afternoon with more goodies :)

{From the cute bride to be, Sabrina} Bridal showers are becoming more and more elaborate these days. Rather than writing the name of my guests on individual, folded pieces of paper for their seating placements, I chose to buy mini canvases. I painted each canvas peach and wrote guest's names in cursive. Then I placed the small canvas on an easel that I had spray painted sea foam green. This was easy and very affordable and the small easels came in mini packs at the Dollar Store. Bigger canvases stood by the entrance to display what tables guests were seated at. These were also purchased from the Dollar Store. The larger canvases were painted peach and matched well with their little canvas friends. Among these, I also spotted fake fruit further down the craft aisle. I bought several bags of fake peaches and combined them into my floral centerpieces to tie in to the theme.

Even though Dollar Stores are great bargain places to shop at, there are times you can't find exactly what you need. When I visited my local Michaels, I checked the discounted bin and found adorable mini calendars for .39 cents each. Browsing through the months, I noticed lovely designs bordering the back side of each month. I decided to buy as many calendars as I needed and then ripped out the beautiful paper. I then traced my table numbers onto coloured stock paper and pasted it into the beautifully bordered paper. It added a really pretty touch and incorporated the colours I was after. Laminating the table number cards also really polished the look.

Lastly, DIY projects are always a lot of fun, especially when you have a clear vision of what you want. Plan everything out and give yourself enough time to make your vision a reality. Depending on what DIY project you're working on, start early enough to achieve your goal without worrying about a sudden deadline. Put love and passion into your project and it will shine. Tackle on project at a time so it isn't too overwhelming. If something doesn't turn out exactly the way you want, well then, just remember, when life gives you peaches, make peach juice. Or something like that :)

Barboursville Winery E-session by Jodi Miller Photography

2011-05-31T09:43:00.000-04:00

Guys check out these pics. In all but one, the groom to be is lovingly looking at his gorgeous fiance or resting his forehead against hers. I know you all, like me, love a really romantic engagement session especially after this last week, but throw in an Anthropologie wardrobe (where all of Natalie's cute outfits are from), some beautiful lighting and a Virginia winery as the backdrop and hello! You get this sweet e-session (and Love Story) sent over by the truly talented Jodi Miller Photography. To check out all the other awesome shots of Natalie and Michael head over to the blog and while you're there be sure to check out Jodi's lovely new branding and logo. I'm telling you this woman is a creator of prettiness. Enjoy the beautiful weather today!

{Natalie and Michael's Love Story} We lead incredibly similar lives and it was only a matter of time before our paths crossed and we realized we were meant to be together. It was the winter of 2006 at Massanutten Resort in Virginia where this finally took place. Michael was living in Washington, DC but would frequently visit the ski resort on weekends to visit old college friends, snowboard, and have a good laugh. I worked and played at the resort while in cottage. After several encounters on the slopes through mutual friends, we ended the season with a bond that couldn't be broken even when it became too warm to make fake snow. Promoted by our love of snow sports and our new found fondness for each other, we decided to move to Colorado for ski season in 2007. We had an unforgettable time. After moving back East, we continued to frequent Colorado as often as possible. On one particular ski trip in February of 2010, atop our favourite mountain (Vail), Michael asked me to spend the rest of my life with him. Though we are both drawn to the deep snow and harsh peaks of the Rocky Mountains we chose Barboursville winery for our engagement session because not only are we lovers of Virginia wine but also because it's a picturesque representation of Virginia rolling hills and verdant beauty. Our wedding will be held several miles down the road from the winery at Montpelier Mansion (James Madison's home) on June 18th!

Couples Counselling 101 {Married Life}

2011-05-30T16:28:00.003-04:00

Happy Memorial Day my sweet blogettes! Hopefully everyone had a lovely long weekend of rest and relaxation and are feeling rested for a new week ahead. Andrew and I started a new little team building exercise with one another last night and I wanted to share it with you all today. Lately I'm finding that running the blog, catering to my clients (which is my first priority) and taking some time alone for just myself is leaving little room for husband or for 'us' time. And I told myself prior to getting married that I would never ever let anything get in the way of maintaining a solid and meaningful marriage. So yesterday I suggested to Apb, that we hold our own sort of couples counselling every Sunday night in an effort to strengthen our relationship. Below is what we're doing and I have to admit, I am so totally in love with this new little routine in our lives.

On Sunday night Andrew and I both sit down and have to offer up a personal resolution or goal to reach or maintain for the upcoming week. It can be as lofty or as small as possible, but the point is to strive for something that is important on a personal level as opposed to something that may benefit our relationship together. For example, I could say "This week my resolution is to skip any pasta dinners," (a toughie for me) or "This week I want to have my laptop shut down by 5:00 pm everyday unless an emergency should arise" (yet again another toughie for me). Andrew may set a professional goal relating to work or a goal to keep his closest more organized but the point is to keep things tailored to yourself and relevant to life as your own person.

Then we both come up with a goal that caters to both of us as a couple. This could be "This week we will eat breakfast together every morning." Or "For the next seven days I will take out all of the trash without you asking," but the goal is meant to benefit us as husband and wife. Once we both share our suggested goal we mutually decide which one we like better and figure out if our goals can somehow be combined (i.e. my goal of Andrew watching less TV at night and his goal of me on my computer less could mean a couple's goal of less technology after 8:00 pm). We date and write our goals down in a little notebook so that next week when we regroup we can discuss how we think we did. Below I've listed our goals for this week (we started small)

Rhi - To drink a minimum of 2 to 3 full bottles of water per day (to reduce my daily terrible headaches)

Andy - To work out a minimum of three times this week (since we have snazzy new gym memberships)

Couple's Goal - To go out for sushi and see the Hangover 2 on Tuesday with no excuses or reschedules!

What do you think guys? Is this something you think you chicks think you could do with your significant others? Do you think mini resolutions set on a weekly basis are easier to follow than something set long term? I'd love to hear what you think!

Friday Wrap Up

2011-05-27T14:14:00.000-04:00

First of all, did you guys happen to catch this wedding over on Once Wed by mastermind Jose Villa? From observation, it looks like three of the six bridesmaids are wearing Louboutons. Which makes me slightly (ok, incredibly) jealous. Secondly, I don't know about any of you but I am pretty thrilled it's finally Friday. This past week sort of dragged on for me so this weekend I am hoping to take a little time aside to just relax and unplug. Besides, with the beautiful weather we've been blessed with lately how could I not take advantage of mister sunny? Here's to hoping that all of you do the same this holiday weekend.

In other news, there were tons of gorgeous posts over here this week so hopefully you didn't miss out on too much. And even better, I have so many fabulous things coming to you soon, like the big girl cave reveal (wait until you see the rug I bought!), some teasers for an upcoming Inspiration Shoot, and finally (this has been a tough secret to keep!) a freshened up look over here as Hey Gorg makes the much needed and anticipated move to Wordpress. You faithful Hey Gorg-ers are going to just adore the fun new look, improved navigation and usability over here, I promise! As usual, here's a look back at this week:

{Monday} This pretty peach-hued fete kick-started the week
{The Biz} Be sure to check out the latest cave progress post
{Tuesday} Wedding. Vera Wang. Need I say anything else?
{Pep-Talk} Probably one of my fave pep-talks I've eva done!
{Wednesday} A DIY rustic Michigan wedding full of charm
{Thursday} A whole lotta romance in this sweet engagement
{Friday} A reader needs your help with advice, pretty please!

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Lovely Links Around the Web

{Soak} In this bad boy. Obviously the coolest thing I've ever seen.
{Shriek} Is exactly what I did when I came across this calligrapher.
{Hugs} To this lovely chick for having her work featured on SMP!
{Etsy} Never ceases to amaze me with it's loveliness. And pretties.
{Bake} I made these this week. And didn't regret it for one second.
{Look} Over here. If you wanted to know a little more about moi!

FAQ Friday; MOH Duties and Bridal Showers

2011-05-26T23:36:00.000-04:00

The problem, sent via one of my dear readers: "What do you do when you're the maid of honor (for your little sister's wedding, nonetheless) and find out that the shower you are throwing is the only shower the bride and groom get and your little old budget can't support her huge guest list? I am having that issue right now. I wanted to throw my sister and her fiance a co-ed shower in a backyard with games, beer, grilling, etc for our friends. But come to find out no one else is throwing her one, so now it's every immediate family member and friend within driving distance. I can't afford it. Eeek!" Photo via here.

This is tricky now that I think about it. Because anything involving family, money (and not having enough of it) is sort of a touchy subject. Then throw in anything relating to your little sister's wedding and you have a situation you'll most likely want to tread lightly on. That stated, there are surely ways to throw a memorable shower in your sister's honour without breaking the bank and most importantly, while still staying classy and keeping guests happy. Read more below for my take on the situation!

{Suggest a Potluck} A potluck? For a bridal shower? I know what you're thinking, really Rhi how tacky are you. But hold up people! Some of the best parties I've ever been to have been potlucks. Because first and foremost, there is always an abundance of food in endless variations; it's like the best buffet you could ever eat at. And secondly when people are invited to a potluck they always whip up their favourite and most delicious dishes. Which means guaranteed - and free! - yumminess. Plus, if you're shooting for a coed backyard barbecue I really couldn't imagine anything better than a potluck; men could bring the meat, chips, condiments and beer and the girls could bring the salads, desserts, fruit platter and drinks. Send me an invite too please.

{Talk to Your Sister} Communication, as I've reiterated over here many times, is the key to having anything run smoothly. So talk to your sis. I'm not saying to sit her down and tell her there's no way you can afford the bridal shower of her dreams because sometimes the brutal truth really isn't needed. But instead let her know that with a little clever planning you're hoping to make her day really special. Ask her what elements of a bridal shower are most important to her and her fiance so you can make sure your efforts and the little money you do have to contribute is spent on things that she will most appreciate and love. Great games? Killer snacks? A signature drink? Festive decorations? Instead of spreading yourself thin in every single area focus in your efforts on a few different elements to make both guests feel comfortable and your sister and her fiance, happy.

{Ask For Help} Just because you're the Maid of Honour doesn't mean everyone else is exempt from lending a hand. Check in with family members, parents of the bride and groom, the other bridesmaids, kind and generous friends; everyone and anyone who may be able to contribute to making the day a success. When it comes to weddings most people are more than often willing to help out where needed even if means donating a chunk of change or a few hours of their time to organize, cook, grill, set up, entertain or tear down. And remember, regardless of if the shower ends up being a backyard potluck sans flower arrangements, a rocking DJ and a bartender, your sis and soon to be brother in law will appreciate your support and love.

Thoughts, friends?

Romantic San Rafael E-session by Volatile Photography

2011-05-25T23:53:00.000-04:00

Julia and Seth are one of those couples that just ooze genuine sweetness and romance. As I scrolled through the dozen of images from their intimate San Rafael engagement session there wasn't one photo that I didn't find myself nearly lost in. Their expressions, their mannerisms, their interactions together are just so real and sweet to me and I hope you'll feel the same way. Oh and how gorgeous is Julia? I can't wait to see her rock a wedding gown in just a few short months. A giant thank you to the wonderful Kristy over at Volatile Photography for sending this session my way. Happy Thursday everyone!

{Julia and Seth's Love Story} Seth and I grew up in the same town but didn't meet until 4 1/2 years ago through mutual friends. Neither one of us was looking for anything serious as Seth was moving to LA in seven months and I was finishing paralegal school but before we knew it we were inseparable and got teased by friends constantly for our public displays of affection. The summer months flew by and at a friend's wedding a month before Seth left for LA, he pulled me aside as the rest of the party was dancing to say "I'm crazy in love with you." I still remember how the tears felt the day he left, but soon enough I followed him to LA. We both worked hard at following our dreams there, but missed home tremendously so we decided to move back home. While in Maui with Seth's family the week before we moved home he swept me off my feet and proposed to me on a beach at sunset. We are getting married in September under the trees in Tahoe and plan to dance the night away with our closest family and friends. We fall more and more in love each day and every moment he takes my breath away.

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Photography: Kristy Ahumada of Volatile Photography / Venue: St. Vincent School for Boys, San Rafael, California / Julia's dress: Oh La Loft, Petaluma, California / Flowers: Trader Joes

Rustic Michigan Wedding by Abby Rose Photography

2011-05-25T00:36:00.001-04:00

I don't know about you guys, but I am really digging anything and everything yellow these days. Then this little gem of a submission from the fabulous Abby Rose Photography shows up in my inbox. I lay my eyes on the stunning flowers and uber cute bridal party and it's a done deal, hook, line and sinker. And while this wedding remains close to my heart partially because it took place just a couple hours down the road from Grand Rapids in Ann Arbor, the details from this farm celebration are so genuine and sweet that I know you'll feel the same way too. Just look at all that yummy eye candy! Congrats Jaimie and Ari and hope you two are having an incredibly memorable honeymoon! Enjoy your day, blogettes and do something brilliant.

{From Abby, the photographer} This charming barn wedding was such a blast to photograph! Jaimie and Ari wanted a laid-back vibe to their day, and they definitely achieved it. Guests arrived around 6:00 pm for a lovely outdoor ceremony (complete with a marimba player!) and then made their way to the tent for a delicious meal prepared by renowned Ann Arbor chef Eve Arnoff (the couple met working at Eve's restaurant years ago!). After dinner, guests were treated to make-your-own strawberry shortcake for dessert, followed by a rockin' dance party in Misty Farm's beautiful barn.

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Photography: Abby Rose Photography / Venue: Misty Farms, Ann Arbor, Michigan / Brides Dress: Priscilla's of Boston / Bridesmaid's dresses: J. Crew / Flowers and bouquets: Pot and Box / Catering: Eve Arnoff / Groomswear: vintage suit found at Kiwanis, and custom tailored / Entertainment: Laith Al-Saadi, local Ann Arbor musician / DOC: Laura Davis Events

Pep-Talk Tuesday {Balancing Work and Play with Your Significant Other}

2011-05-24T14:07:00.000-04:00

Someone sent me this little tidbit of a dilemma a few weeks ago and I've been patiently waiting (or rather, she's been patiently waiting) for me to address it. Said reader was hoping I could share my advice on merging my life and my husbands together since she correctly assumed that he works a 9 - 5 and I work a primarily demanding nights and weekends kind of gig. She's interested in hearing how I, and of course how all of you out there, handle the demands of irregular job schedules in a relationship. And I am so glad she asked :) Below are a few of the things I try to do to find balance between work and love.

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{Set Aside Date Nights} One thing Apb and I have tried to do (and I say tried because lately this has been a toughie to uphold) is set aside one day or night a week that is specifically devoted to date night or alone time for the both of us. We then both understand that come every Thursday evening, we've previously arranged to free our schedules of appointments or priorities because this is one night we have specifically set aside for the two of us. And date night doesn't have to mean getting dressed up and going to a fancy restaurant but it might mean turning off our laptops and cell phones and sitting on the couch together to watch our favorite show or a DVR-ed movie with a glass of wine. It's incredible how much this one night a week just being together without external distractions, can make a difference in allowing you to feel connected to your significant other.

{Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder} Andrew and I spent two years of our engagement and the first four months of our marriage apart. And I don't mean apart like "Yo babe I'll see you this weekend" I mean like "Hey babe I'm over here in a different country, I'll see you in a few months when flights get cheaper" kind of thing. It was a brutal, lonely, frustrating and at times downright crappy time but it most of all made me realize how sure I was that at the end of the tunnel was our metaphorical light for happily ever after. I'm not saying to suck it up if you and your significant other do have irregular work schedules but rather than feel defeated, instead embrace your own individual lives so that when you do find time to do things together, it'll be that much sweeter. I know when I spend a few days away from Apb handling my responsibilities and him managing his, I get really giddy just thinking of how excited I am to spend time with him again; whenever that may be.

{Be The Partner You Want to Be With} Wait a sec Rhi, wha? I know that sounds way too confusing. But let me explain because this little piece of advice is for anyone in a relationship regardless of when and if you or your spouse work at all. Too often people get into a long term relationship or marriage to find that things get a little too comfortable and you no longer find it necessary to do things you may have done in the beginning stages of the relationship. It could be caring less about your physical appearance, forgetting to leave love notes on the counter, texting less "just because I love yous," but essentially sometimes we put in less effort in our relationships while still having the same expectations of our partner. Irregular work schedules are common and at times inevitable, so rather than feel upset over your given circumstances, embracing the love you have for your partner and being the best version of yourself for them is a sure fire way to get the most out of your relationship.

Let's hear it blogettes; your tricks and tips for merging work schedules with your significant other!

Classic New York Wedding

2011-05-24T00:33:00.000-04:00

The first thing I thought when I first looked through these beautiful photos was that the gorgeous bride is a dead ringer for one of my faves, Blake Lively. Then I laid eyes on the dapper groom, the incredibly large but nevertheless stunning bridal party and of course those beautiful bouquets, and I was head over heels in love with the classic simplicity of this entire celebration. Plus, when a bride wears a Vera Wang gown it's pretty much a done deal that everything else about the wedding will be nothing short of timeless. A huge thank you to both Christina Szczupak and Jacquelyn Poussot who captured Christin and Rob's big day so perfectly; I'm so thrilled to have you talented ladies over here on the blog today. Happy Tuesday, blogettes!

{From the bride, Christin} Rob and I met in highschool through a mutual friend. We started dating, went to prom together and fell in love. We ended our relationship when I moved to South Carolina for college. Four years later, we were still in touch and Rob ended up coming over to my parent's house for a family party. It was as if our relationship had never ended and we haven't been apart since. On October 10th, 2010 we walked now the aisle and now I am happily married to my best friend. However, I would say the biggest obstacle while wedding planning is staying on budget. It was very challenging to finalize a guest list, find the perfect dress, hire a rocking band and choose a delicious cake without breaking the bank. It took a lot of research but in the end we were able to find great vendors at great prices.

If you have the time, try to do your favours yourself - it will save you lots of money and we had fun doing it! Do research before you go dress shopping. I live close to New York City and was able to find my designer dress at a sample sale. Don't go crazy with flower arrangements. We had small bouquets on each table with lots of candles. It was very romantic and elegant but also inexpensive. Don't forget to get a facial a week before your wedding and you can't go wrong with a good spray tan (Brazil Bronze in Soho is the best) and lastly, relax and enjoy the process. It goes by so quickly! One of our favorite parts of our wedding day was the after party. We were excited to still have more time celebrating with our family and friends. One of our good friend is a DJ who helped us throw an awesome dance party that lasted all night long.

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Photography: Christina Szszupak and Jacquelyn Poussot / Church: Our Lady Mother of the Church in Woodcliff Lake / Reception: The Tuxedo Club / Florist: Stephanie Landsdale, Floral Expressions / Band: Groove Train / Invitations: Yes I Do! / Brides gown: Vera Wang / Tuxedos: The Tux Shop / Flower girls dresses: David's Bridal / Bridesmaids and Junior Bridesmaids dresses: Jasmine Bridal / Hair: Best Little Hair House

My Office Redo {Part 3}

2011-05-23T15:35:00.000-04:00

I have a confession for you guys. My office also known as Hey Gorg Headquarters (ha!) is pretty much done. Meaning I have an awesome new girl cave space to hang out in, do work in and if need be, have meetings with my brides in. I am currently waiting on a few more details to perfect the look and a custom framing order to come in but I have to say it's the cutest space in our entire apartment. I feel so at peace in my office and just love what the room represents to me. The cave will be getting her photos taken (yeah I referred to it as 'her') the first week of June so by the end of next month I should have some official photos to share with you. Here I thought I'd share the last little bit of progress I've made without giving away too much!

A few weeks ago Andrew tried to help me hang a white IKEA shelf on my pink wall. I really wanted the wall directly behind my desk to have a shelf and pretty print on it. However, due to how ghetto our apartment truly is, we found the wall bowed really deeply in the middle making it impossible to fasten the shelf onto the wall. So after I sulked for about two point five minutes I decided the shelf could call the gray wall home. See? Isn't my husband such a diligent girl cave helper outter?

So while husband worked on hanging the shelf, I got to work on unwrapping my newest office purchase; my two knock off acrylic cradle chairs from Overstock. I was pretty stoked to get these in the mail and couldn't wait to put them together. In my head they seemed like the perfect addition to my girl cave, providing a little bit of retro in an otherwise very feminine and soft space. They were $200.00 for the set and I thought they'd be great because I could clean them easily and if they needed to be moved, they were easy enough to put somewhere else.

But once they were set up, I wasn't really feeling them. They were too white against the rest of my furniture. And too plastic. And I hated how you could see through the base of them to where plugs and other things I would rather remain hidden would be (I am a cord snob and do my best to always hide them whenever I can). So while husband played with Yurchenko like a good Dad, I sat and tried super duper hard to make myself like these chairs because after all, they took a good hour to put together and no one likes having to return big purchases like this. I actually sat for about an hour stewing over my decision.

But I didn't like em. And couldn't make myself like em. So I rearranged the room. Switched the desk and lamp. Moved the bookcase. And tried to make the chairs work. I sat in the corner of the room trying to visualize everything together but yet again I was completely stumped on what to do; nothing seemed to work and nothing felt completely right. I didn't know where my tea cart would go now and I would still have the problem of my lamp cord being visible through the wire base of the chairs. My problem was starting to look like it wasn't a matter of where the chairs would go but rather, if the chairs should stay.

So any guesses what I did next? :) Can't wait for the big reveal so soon!

Vintage Peach Wedding by Belathée Photography

2011-05-22T23:59:00.002-04:00

Happy Monday everyone! I feel so happy to be back to our regular scheduled programming over here on the Hey Gorg blog. With the craziness that was my birthday, last weekend's amazing wedding, an entire week dedicated to giveaways and then a birthday surprise weekend (which ended up being a surprise visit from my parents planned by hubby; marking the first time we've seen one another since Christmas. Eeek!) it's safe to say I feel refreshed and ready to rock this week with even more prettiness than ever. Also, I just wanted to send another big thank you to everyone who sent me happy birthday tweets, texts, emails, comments and calls. You all know how to make a girl feel so completely lucky and loved. And without further ado...

I am completely smitten with this vintage peach wedding sent over from Belathée Photography. Jolene, the sweet bride, wore a gown we're not afraid to admit we've all fallen in love with (yup, that's Melissa Sweet's 'Fern') and the flowers are something straight out of a dream. Add in all the pretty pale pink touches and the spiffiest vintage car I've ever seen and voila, you get this beautiful celebration to kick off the start of your week. Be sure to catch the very detailed vendor list to find out where you too can score some of the lovely touches that completed Brad and Jolene's big day. Enjoy this fabulous new week, blogettes! xo

{From Jolene, the bride} Brad and I got to have the wedding that we both wanted. We wanted a wedding that felt intimate and cozy. Brad and I could have easily had a 150 to 200 guest wedding but it wasn't what we wanted. We wanted to share this special day closely with loved ones. I didn't need an 'audience' of people I didn't really know or hardly ever see. I wanted to look around the candle lit table at all those people who mean the most. We tailored the wedding to suit our personalities so a garter/bouquet toss, dollar dance, and not seeing each other before the wedding were traditions that didn't feel right to us. If you want a fabulous wedding, hire fabulous vendors. Our vendors were beyond amazing. I love them and will forever be grateful for the incredible work that they did. Also, hire a wedding planner that is lovely and supportive. My fairy godplanner was a dream and I felt like I didn't have to worry about a thing. This leads me to my last piece of advice, relax. Relax and enjoy.

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Photography: Annabel Braithwaite, Belathée Photography / Brides dress: Melissa Sweet, 'Fern' from Sewly Yours / Shoes: J. Crew / Jewelry: Becky Kelso chalcedony earrings, ring designed by Jamie Joseph / Engagement and wedding rings: Mark Patterson, Frank Adams Jewelers in Albany, New York / Menswear: Calvin Klein / Bridesmaids dresses: J. Crew / Macaron favors: MadMac, NYC / Hankie gifts: EmbroiderybyLinda on etsy / Vintage car: borrowed from family friend / Program fans: baumbirdy on etsy / Catering: The Mansion Inn / Entertainment: DJ Greg Fraiser / Wedding planner: Shannon Whitney, Wedding Planning Plus / Officiant: Bishop Mark Stewart / Florist: Ariella Chezar, Ariella Flowers / Cake: made by the bride's Aunt / Stationary: Minhee Cho, Paper + Cup Design / Hair: Janelle, Make Me Fabulous, Ballston Spa / Makeup: Kyle Colangelo-Garcia, Make Me Fabulous

Lindsey + Ryan {Wedding Teaser by Julie Harmsen Photography}

2011-05-21T09:53:00.000-04:00

I woke up this morning with bloody blisters (not bloody like I'm trying to sound British or anything) but literally bloody cuts on my toes, a headache like I was hungover and a hot mess of a hair style only to find I had a huge smile plastered across my face. Then I opened my email to find this little gem of a photo below and all I could feel was a complete sense of happiness for being able to experience last night. I don't think a wedding could have run more flawlessly than Lindsey and Ryans. I have so much more to say about yesterday but for now, congratulations you two, on your new journey together, your new life and as we've come to call it, on starting ' the beginning.' It was an absolute honour to be a part of your big day; I'll never ever forget it.

And below I have for you a pretty little teaser shot straight from the lens of the rad Julie Harmsen. Have I told you how excited I was to be working with her? I cannot wait to blog the rest of this wedding when the photos are ready because I know you're going to just love em. Thanks Julie for being such an awesome chick and vendor to work with (and for eating cake with me :)

Enjoy your weekend everyone! I'm getting picked up in an hour for a surprise birthday trip somewhere; eeep!! xoxo

Giveaway {Monogrammed Note Set from Lemon and Lavender}

2011-05-20T08:14:00.000-04:00

Monogrammed note set? With custom colours and designs? Yes please and thank you very much. Ashley, the gorgeous chick behind Lemon and Lavender has been a fave of mine for some time now in the blogging world so you can imagine how thrilled I was when she offered up this giveaway. Not only is she super talented and innovative but she's beautiful and totally the most down to earth girl I know. And get this, the designs you see above are from her new line of monograms and you guys are the first to see them. The winner will win 25 folded monogram note cards in linen or smooth finish in white or natural. You can also choose any colour, liner (these are mix and match) and monogram. And well could you imagine how simply adorable a little HGE monogram would be? Oh snap, yup these are too perfect for words.

{To win your custom set of monogrammed note cards please do the following}

• Please go become a follower of Lemon and Lavender over on Twitter

• If you're not already then pretty please become a follower of this blog!

• Visit the Lemon and Lavender shop to find your most favourite design

• Come back here and leave a comment with your fave monogram pick

Also, for those of you looking to purchase something from Lemon and Lavender, Ashley has extended a generous 15% discount on any order until next Friday when you use the code HEYGORG. Contest is open until next Friday morning, May 27th. A winner will be picked at random. Good luck loves!

Giveaway {$125 Gift Card to Papertalk Press}

2011-05-19T14:09:00.000-04:00

I have a really big soft spot for Papertalk Press. Not only did Michelle do our wedding invitations, or all the paper products for our last inspiration shoot but she is a total sweetheart and a dream to work with. In addition to creating wonderfully unique and modern wedding stationery her and her husband also own a company, Stak Inc where they cater to business professionals and create all sort of goodness like business cards, logos and websites (Hint hint, not a bride? Need business cards? A logo? Something designed? This giveaway is for you too!) I can't say enough great things about Papertalk so I am obviously thrilled that one of you lucky readers will win a $125 credit towards your order.

{To win a $125 gift card towards your next Papertalk Press order}

• You know the drill, go like the Papertalk Press facebook page

• Please be a follower here of the Hey Gorgeous bloggity blog!

• Check out the PTP store and pick out your most fave product

• Come back and leave a comment below with your fave pick

A winner will be picked at random next week on the morning of May 26th. Photos above by Michelle herself and Elizabeth Kaye. Good luck everyone! And a giant hug to everyone for your sweet birthday wishes, texts, tweets, emails and calls. I feel so loved and lucky today :) xo

Giveaway {Fine and Fleurie Flower Hair Piece}

2011-05-18T22:42:00.000-04:00

I have to admit, I'm slightly jealous of the lucky chick who will win this stunning fascinator from the studio of Fine and Fleurie because the delicate lace detailing amongst the crepe silk petals is far too pretty for words. The clip comes available in white or ivory and is 4' across, attached to an alligator clip. The standard center is comprised of ivory Swarovski pearls but you can also have a mix of pearls and crystals or a rhinestone center. It's fresh from the new Fine and Fleurie 2011 collection and well, I am thrilled to be able to offer this up to one of your beautiful brides-to-be (or all you blogettes who just wanna rock a pretty flower in your hair!) How fab would this be on a pretty pink sash to wear around a summer frock or your wedding gown? Just sayin.

{To win the stunning flower hair piece shown above}

• Please head over and become a fan of the gorg Fine and Fleurie facebook page

• If you're not already please be a follower of Hey Gorgeous Events on facebook

• Check out the Fine and Fleurie shop and let me know your fave item over there

• Leave a comment below with your fave item; tell us how you'd wear this flower

Contest will remain open until May 25th at midnight and a winner will be picked at random. And for those of you wanted to purchase something from Fine and Fleurie, Jess has offered a generous code for free shipping, valid until June 15. Just enter the code fflovesyou upon checkout. Good luck beauties. Photo by Parker J Photography.

Oh ps. It's officially my birthday on the 19th :) Eeek!

Giveaway {Anastasia Marie Cards $100 Gift Credit}

2011-05-18T00:00:00.001-04:00

I squealed with happiness with I first looked at the photos of Anastasia Marie Cards fine paper products. Not only is the styling spot on but her work is so perfectly pretty and flawless. And the chick behind it all? She is a complete sweetheart and exactly the kind of vendor that makes the wedding industry such a fabulous space to be a apart of. But enough from me, here's the best part for all you guys: the winner of today's giveaway will win a $100 credit towards a custom wedding stationary order or a $50 gift card to be used towards any purchase from her stunning etsy shop packed to the brim with eye candy. And just to give you a little taste of what you're looking at here, check out these stunners featuring some of my fave pieces:

Pretty gorgeous right? To win $100 towards a custom wedding stationary suite:

• Head over and like Anastasia Marie Cards via facebook
• Pretty please be a follower of the Hey Gorgeous bloggy
• Check out the AMC etsy shop and find your fave design
• Leave a comment below letting us know your most fave!

And for those of you who still want to purchase something from Anastasia Marie's etsy shop, a generous 15% off discount code is being extended to all you Hey Gorgeous readers from now until the end of May. Just enter the code HEYGORG upon your checkout and the discount will be applied to your purchase. Happy shopping, loves! Contest is open until next Tuesday, May 24th at midnight. A winner will be picked at random. All photos above by Daniel Usenko.

Giveaway {$50 Gift Card to Wedding Paper Divas}

2011-05-17T13:47:00.000-04:00

Happy Afternoon, blogettes! Today I am so thrilled to bring you an incredible giveaway from Wedding Paper Divas, an official sponsor of the Hey Gorg blog and a fantastic company that provides stylish, modern and unique stationery. From thank you notes and save the date magnets, to custom wedding invites (like these beach invitations, discount wedding invites and cheap wedding invites), Wedding Paper Divas offers exclusive designs from the nation's top designers, easy card personalization, a powerful preview engine and top-notch customer service and paper quality. I mean, awesome right? Even better, the Wedding Paper Divas designs have been lauded by numerous television networks, publications and celebrities. With WPD by your side, planning your perfect wedding will be a cinch. Check out how fabulous their designs are:

{To win a $50 Gift Card to Wedding Paper Divas please do the following}

• Visit the WPD website and check out the massive selection of beautiful designs

• If you haven't yet, please head over and like the Hey Gorgeous facebook page

• Leave a comment below letting us know what WPD design you love the most

Oh and no problem if you're already married guys because this giveaway is perfect for just about everyone. Wedding Paper Divas offers every product imaginable to cater to your social stationery needs (think baby showers, birth announcements, party invitations, and the list goes on). If you need it chances are they've got it! The giveaway will remain open until May 23rd, 2011 at midnight and a winner will be picked at random. Good luck! xo

Giveaway {Vatne Designs Clustered Pearl Bracelet}

2011-05-16T23:27:00.000-04:00

Guys, for reals, I totally wanted to enter my own bloggy giveaway to win this bracelet. That's just how much I love it. But I'm pretty sure that's totally against the rules of blogging giveaways so instead one of you lovely chicks will get to win this stunner from one of my lovely sponsors, Vatne Designs. The bracelet is made of bubbly glass pearls in shades of silver and sand, each topped with a Swarovski crystal. The bracelet can be preordered in 7" or 8" in length and well it's absolutely beauty-ful. See?

{To win this beauty please follow the listed rules below}

• If you're not already, hop on over to Twitter and be a follower of Hey Gorgeous

• Please head over and like the fabulous Vatne Designs on their facebook page

• Leave a comment below and let us know where you'll wear this gorg bracelet!

Also for those of you would like to purchase something for yourself, your bridesmaids, for a family member or friend's upcoming birthday or shower Neallie has offered an incredibly generous 30% discount to Hey Gorgeous readers on any item from her shop. All you need to do is enter the code HEYGORG upon checkout over at Vatne Designs. This offer is only applicable to purchases made today on May 17th. Contest is open until midnight next Monday, May 23rd and a winner will be picked at random. Good luck! Photo by Sheila Carson Photography.

Giveaway {10 Custom Totes from The Wedding Chicks}

2011-05-15T23:19:00.001-04:00

Happy Monday Blogettes! Can you believe this post right here officially kicks off the Hey Gorgeous blog (aka my 25th) birthday celebration extravaganza? That's right, this week until Friday afternoon every single post over here will be packed to the brim with incredible prizes and gifts that whether or not you're a bride to be, you won't want to miss. And what better a way to celebrate the first giveaway than with a set of ten, yup you read that right, ten custom totes from the fabulous Wedding Chicks shop. The Wedding Chicks Shop is the newest sponsor to join the Hey Gorg team and I am so thrilled that they are offering such a generous giveaway to one of you lucky readers. The winner will receive 10 totes of their choosing from their shop where the styles and colours are absolutely endless; you'll spend hours looking around their adorable shop like I often do!

{To win ten custom WC totes, please do the following}

• Be a fan of The Wedding Chicks over on facebook
• Please become a follower of the Hey Gorgeous blog
• Visit the shop to find your fave tote colour & design
• Leave a comment below letting us know your fave!

Contest is open until Sunday, May 22nd at midnight. Winner will be drawn at random. Good luck :)

DIY Wedding Bouquet

2011-05-14T20:57:00.001-04:00

Guys, not that I'm one to toot my own horn or anything but I seriously love this little gem of a bouquet. More so, I'm rather impressed with how pretty it turned out considering I have no previous floral experience or know-how when it comes to putting together a bunch of blooms. Can any of you brides out there please use these colours for your own wedding? I may have a new fave palette, lemme tell you. Below are some photos from my little DIY adventure and as always, a slight disclaimer about this tutorial; I am not a professional, and I am confident there is a correct way quite different from my way, to make a proper bouquet. However I am a firm believer that DIY sort of tosses out all means of professionalism and right-way-of-doing-things-ness out the door because after all, you're doin it by yo-self. So here's how I did it.

{Step 1} First things first, get your flowers from a flower market; they'll be cheaper. Then once you've picked your flowers for the bouquet, remove all leaves and thorns from the stems using your hands. Be careful not to pull apart parts of the base stem or flowers as you pull the leaves off. Lay out your blooms on your work station by type (roses with roses, carnations with carnations) as it'll be easier to see what you're working with when you construct the bouquet.

{Step 2} For blooms like lisianthus or spray roses where their stems are more delicate or there are multiple sprigs off of one stem, I used green floral table to fasten the stems together. I found this helped the multiple blooms on one stem sort of stick together and stand up straighter once they were clustered together with the other stems. Lisianthus blooms are so thin and tend to droop a little so this really helped with keeping them fresh looking.

{Step 3} For some of the thicker stemmed flowers like any type of rose, I used long floral wire strands to reinforce the stems. I started at the top of the stem closest to the flower and wrapped the wire strands down and around the stem. But after wiring a few roses I realized that most stems were either strong enough on their own that they didn't need wiring, or they were too delicate that the stems were snapping when I did try to wire them (which was the case with the lone daisy I had). Essentially I found that this step could have been left out.

{Step 4} Figure out what flowers you'd like to make up the center/middle of your bouquet. I used a garden rose, two regular pink roses, a carnation and a lisianthus. Using green floral tape I secured the stems of these flowers together making sure the bouquet had the basic shape I was after. You'll need to really hold on to the stems tightly as the secnd you loosen up your grip you risk losing the shape you had secured. Also be aware that floral tape is rather delicate.

{Step 5} Continue adding more of your blooms to the basic structure you've created, filling in holes and spaces as you feel fit. I added three to five blooms each time before stopping and securing them with floral tape to the base. since I wanted a really texturized feel, I tried to add in different shapes and heights of flowers/greenery to the middle of the bouquet. Continue to add your flowers until all of your blooms are taped to the base.

{Step 6} Using floral wire, tightly wrap the base of all of the taped together stems (this made the stems bundle closer to one another than they would have been had I just of used the floral tape). After the wire was added around the taped together stems, I went back around the spiraled wire with floral tape to sort of smooth out the surface. I added almost three layers of floral tape to make sure everything was perfectly in tact.

{Step 7} Using floral pins or corsage pins with pearl-heads, I fastened two pieces of fabric to the stems, pushing the pins into the stems upwards. I used six pins to secure the fabric making sure to leave a few inches of bare stems at the bottom. I then used white rope to tied a bow around the pink fabric which was used to hide the floral tape and wire, in lieu of traditional ribbon. Et voila!

Whatcha think, friends? Happy flowering! xoxo

A Wrap Up of Sorts

2011-05-13T16:14:00.000-04:00

It's official. I swear the earth stopped spinning for a while there while things weren't working with blogger. And yesterday's ranch wedding post? Remember that beauty? It's gone too so look for that in the future because I didn't even get the chance to read the close to 30 comments that were on there and am hoping I can somehow get you regulars to come back again; sad face. In the meantime, I'll make this nice and short for you. Next week I turn 25 on the 19th. And Hello! Can you say excited?! I love birthdays. Since I figured 25 is sort of a milestone age for me why not celebrate with a giveaway; or eight. Yup eight giveaways. That's how many giveaways I have scheduled between Monday and Friday for all of you to enjoy. From stunning jewelry and hair pieces to monogrammed stationary and a custom totes set this is one week you'll want to make sure you don't miss. The fun starts Sunday night at midnight so make sure you don't miss out. In my 24th year I received my second degree from a graduate program, I started my own business, got married, moved to a different country, created my first office and had my first shoot featured on Style Me Pretty; I think I'm ready to see what year 25 has in store :) See you on Sunday night loves. Enjoy your weekend xoxo

Sometimes I just feel so lucky; like the best is yet to come. Photo by the amazing Jen Doornbos.

San Fran Graffiti E-session by Gem Photo

2011-05-11T16:45:00.001-04:00

Seriously guys, I love me a good engagement session. I wise I could partake in one like every single weekend with husband because to me, they're the epitome of fun and awesomeness. Throw in a fun San Francisco graffiti background and wicked photography from Emily Scott of Gem Photo and your guaranteed with stunner photos; just like these. Check out these beauties from Jon and Ledah's engagement and check back tomorrow for the images from their DIY Cali ranch wedding; it's one you won't want to miss!

{Ledah and Jonathan's Love Story} Ledah and Jonathan met at a church college group in San Diego, California in 2006. Jonathan was immediately attracted to Ledah and wanted to get to know her. After perusing a relationship with her, he quickly fell in love with her outgoing personality, small-town roots, free spirit and love for Jesus. The feelings were returned as Ledah learned of Jonathan's mellow spirit, patience, honesty, and a deep-rooted love in Christ. After two years of long distance dating, they had a fairly spontaneous and truly amazing engagement in New Orleans, Louisiana and were married in Mariposa, California one year later.

Pep Talk Tuesday {When It's The Right Time to Get Married}

2011-05-10T16:13:00.000-04:00

A reader a few weeks ago submitted a rather interesting question to me; "How do you know when it's the right time to get married?" and I was so stumped on an appropriate answer that I later asked Apb if he had an intelligent answer to offer up. I asked him while we were in the car and I remember him making a confused-type look as he stared out at the road in front of us. I believe that much like when you know your wedding dress is 'the one' or a new apartment is 'you' or something else is truly 'meant to be' (new pumps, anyone?) you know you're ready to get married. But then again, getting married is a little bit bigger of a decision than signing a lease.

In the vows I read to Apb on our wedding day, I told him I knew as soon as we started dating that he'd be the man I'd marry. I can't pinpoint one exact thing that was said or done that made me feel this way but instead it was just a feeling I had that him and I would be good together for the long run (he'll argue he knew I'd be the girl he'd marry when I brought him toasted bagels and cream cheese for breakfast when he used to sleep in and I had early morning classes, ah college. I miss you like whoah). We were young when we got married, well we still are young and could we have waited? Absolutely. There's never a right time to get married in my opinion. But we didn't wait, we are very happy and here's my take on how I knew I was ready. And how you too might be able to determine if you are.

{Filling the Gap} Do you ever hear the saying "You don't need a guy to make you happier, to make you feel complete, to fill in the missing piece of the puzzle"? Because I hate to break it to you blogettes, but if marrying someone is an effort to feel more fulfilled, satisfied or happy with yourself or your life, then it's all for the wrong reasons. Because like we mentioned before, marriage (or any relationship for that matter) is tough work and how rude of an awakening it would be if you got married for the purpose of being happier only to find out this 'till death do us part stuff is tough. Look at your entire life before you, subtract your significant other out of the equation and determine if there are things that need adjusting with your own self and agenda; perhaps going after that new job? Building a new social circle? Finishing that degree? Making the move to a new state? Loosing 5 pounds? When getting married is merely a way to add happiness and love to your life rather than completing it or filling in a gap, I think you're ready.

{Age Is Just a Number} The whole age thing when it comes to marriage sort of boggles my mind. I remember visiting Southern Utah on a recruiting trip the summer before my sophomore year of college. The majority of girls in their senior years were engaged; newly graduated chicks were married and pregnant. I remember feeling so out of my element, so shocked that 20 and 21 year olds were now soon to be wives and moms. Then again when I went home to Canada to study my graduate program in 2009, my fellow classmates were beyond shocked to know that at 24 I was about to get married. I was "so young!" to them and surely had other things I wanted to do before settling down. Similarly, some people always seem so taken aback when they see a bride in her late 30s early 40s. Society has such a cemented vision on the ideal age to get married at. And we all know how I feel about societal expectations; whether or not you want to get married at 18 or 56, the right time is whenever you determine it to be.

{Relationships Aren't All Butterflies} I love my husband, and fall more in love with him everyday. With that being said, I knew going into our marriage that there would be things we would still argue about/not see eye to eye on/have to battle with and the list goes on. Marriage doesn't mean an end to the things that may not be the most pleasurable during a courtship. Meaning you take the good with the bad and if you can get along with your inlaws (a biggie I'm telling ya, because these people will be your new family forever), successfully go on vacations with your significant other, see eye to eye on things like kids, household duties, relationship expectations, finances, name changes, living arrangements and so forth, then marriage may be the next best step for you and your partner should you both want it. And if you don't, and you mutually decide to pull a Brangelina because you don't need a party/ring/piece of paper declaring your love for one another, then that's cool too. Marriage (or throwing a wedding) isn't for everyone.

And because I love photos, here we are. On our 8th vacay together. Also know as our honeymoon.

How did you chicks know you were ready to get married? Or how do you predict you'll know when the time comes?

Timeless Australian Wedding by Angela Higgins

2011-05-10T11:38:00.000-04:00

There's just something to be said about Australian weddings. They're so sweet and genuine and always so beautifully styled and orchestrated. This wedding sent over by the fabulously talented Angela Higgins is no exception either. I just about squealed with excitement when I first looked through the gorgeous photos and then when I found out the bride's name is Pippa, I was completely sold. It's official I am obsessed with Australia. And anything remotely close to relating to the Royal Wedding. And this wedding. This wedding and its guest list of under 20 people, the radiant bride, that skinny tall simple wedding cake, those pretty flowers, and that pink bow. You know I am a sucker for bows. Le sigh. Scroll through all the loveliness guys and you'll see what I mean.

{From Pippa, the beautiful bride} All we wanted was a fuss-free relaxing time for us and our families so we chose Yallingup for our wedding location because of its wonderful wineries, beaches and food. As we live in Singapore, the whole wedding was arranged via email and we booked everything sight unseen! There were 18 guests (our families) in total and we wanted to create an intimate affair without too much pomp and ceremony. There was no theme for our wedding, and most details just evolved from things we loved. We really wanted to keep things simple and let the natural beauty of the location shine through.

We chose the ceremony locations because of it's beautiful chalets (which we stayed in) and garden, as we wanted an outdoor ceremony. We started to second guess this a few days before when we found out that it was going to be 38 degrees. Thank goodness we had brought fans! After the ceremony we enjoyed champagne, wedding cake, and canapes in the garden. There was also a bocce set to keep the kids (and adults) occupied while we were having photos taken. A bus transported our guests and us to the nearby restaurant for dinner where we had use of a private room and deck for dinner. Everyone was able to choose their own meal and drinks which the guest really appreciated. The food, wine and service were outstanding.

There were so many wonderful parts of the day including our highly entertaining Minister who conducted the ceremony, my Dad lending me $20 because I forgot my 'something borrowed,' and the impromptu speeches after dinner. The most wonderful thing though, was that we were now husband and wife :) One of the best things about having a destination wedding is that in the future, we will get to come back to Yallingup for holidays and relive the beautiful memories of our day all over again.

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Photographer: Angela Higgins Photography / Brides dress: Renee L Collections / Brides shoes: Witchery / Hair styling: Solutions for Hair / Make up: Duo Makeup / Ceremony Venue: Chandeliers on Abbey / Reception Venue: Lamonts / Floral/Event Coordinator: Vintage Bloom / Cake: Edible Art

LA Arboretum Encore Session by Caroline Tran

2011-05-09T10:05:00.000-04:00

Morning everyone! Here's to hoping each and every one of you had a relaxing weekend because today I have the perfect dose of prettiness to spice up your Monday. Sent over by the talented Caroline Tran who for so long now has been one of my most fave photogs, this Encore Session is so sweet and perfectly captures the pure love between two people. For brides who cringe at the mere thought of messing up their beloved and in most cases, expensive wedding gown in a traditional Trash the Dress sess, an Encore Session is a sweet alternative; I wouldn't mind getting my photos done in an orchard filled with dreamy light. With perfect lose curls cascading over my shoulders. While donning a pretty pink peony hair piece and romantic wedding gown. You get the idea. Check these stunners out and don't forget to head over to Caroline's blog to see some more yummy eye candy. Enjoy the sunshine today, blogettes!

{From Grace, the beautiful bride} My husband and I decided to do an encore session based on the recommendation of my brother and sister-in-law. When it was originally brought u to us. We didn't feel the need to do one. We thought we had enough time during the wedding day and also opted to do a first look to make sure we would have enough portraits of just the two is us. However, in the end, we chose t have another shoot mainly because we wanted to relive the day and have fun while we were at it, not worrying about time constraints, guests the entertain, and that everything at the wedding was going the right way! It was a win-win situation for us; I got to wear my dress again (probably the last time I get to do so), he was able to put on his best suit, we had fun, and we go gorgeous photos out of it too! Basically the question would be, why not? Having an encore shoot was so much different than taking portraits at the wedding, mostly because you're so much more calm and relaxed. It was very similar to doing an engagement session, except even better, because now your husband and wife and fresh off the honeymoon so we had a ball with it. I would recommend it to everyone!

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Venue: The LA Arboretum / Hair and makeup: Theresa Huang

Friday Wrap Up

2011-05-06T11:43:00.000-04:00

Do you married chicks ever catch yourself saying "If I could do it all over again I would blah blah blah," because I think I mutter this exact statement oh, let's see, probably about 3-4 times daily. I did it again today too, when I found the wedding shown above by Love Me Do Photography. I sort of want to kick myself for not being so stylin' on my own wedding day. Thankfully to make up for feelings of wedding day prettiness inadequacy, I had a lot of fun over here this week. Between the progress on my girl cave (did I tell you I ordered my chairs finally? ohmygoshilovethem), finding a photog who is going to be taking photos of the finished product, getting to be a part of a fun little photo shoot with a bunch of beautiful girls and scoring two beautiful gowns for our shoot in June, I just feel like things are slowly falling into place. Plus it's my birthday in a couple weeks. I turn 25. And I love birthday cake. So things are good.

The weather today is out of this world. It's sunny, the air smells like spring and the temperature feels like May finally. Not February. And I'm a wee bit too excited about it. I went on a cleaning frenzy this morning and amongst the smells of Pine sol and Downy sheets the sweet spring air drifted in and out of the apartment putting a huge smile on my face. And now someone is cutting the grass outside our apartment and I wish I had a sprinkla to go run throw like right about now. Yeah I said sprinkla. It sounds a little bit cooler that way. Be sure to check out the gorgeousness from this week, blogettes and enjoy your weekend. Anyone have exciting plans?

{Monday} A Chicago city rooftop wedding. And sparkly Jimmy Choos.

{The Biz} You guys absolutely loved the pink wall in my new girl cave!

{Tuesday} This is what happens when you put blue and yellow together.

{Pep-Talk} Discussing whether or not to merge all finances in a marriage.

{Wednesday} I am such a sucker for big balloons. And brides who DIY.

{Thursday} A little sneak peak of that time I got to play model for a day.

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Lovely Links Around the Web

{Blooms} Paper blooms that is. The prettiest paper blooms I've ever seen.

{Advice} If I could give you all one piece of advice it would be to do this.

{Decor} Just when you thought DIY sort of wasn't your thing this happens.

{Yum} I may or may not be making these little treats for dinner tomorrow.

{Stunner} This beauty of a wedding nearly knocked me off my size 7 feet.

{Giveaway} Don't miss this rather nice little gem of a giveaway over here.

Spring Sweet, Holland Michigan {Sneak Peak}

2011-05-06T00:13:00.000-04:00

This was pretty much the best day ever. About a week ago I received an email from Jen, the beauty who will be modeling in my next editorial shoot in June. Turns out she's a rad photographer. And she just happened to be looking for a brunette to pose for some photos because her friend was getting ready to open her new flower market and boutique. And well I have brown hair. And luckily pretty much love any opportunity to hang out with sweet chicks in adorable frocks and cute accessories. So off I went and am I ever glad I did. Did I mention this was pretty much the best day ever? There we all are above wearing dresses from the store Spring Sweet, so lovingly named after the store owner herself, Spring. Next week Tuesday the store will officially open and thank goodness I'm only 30 minutes away. I'm telling you guys this place is a little slice of perfection. Here are a few more photos from our shoot...

The orange dress I wore is actually backless, comes in a turquoise hue and is so super fantastic; I can't wait to show you more photos. We all wore rings and bracelets from the store too. And that sweet little girl above is Gemma. She belongs to the hot Mama is the beige dress with the perfectly wavvy blonde hair. You know the one whose legs are as long as my entire body :) And I could go on and on about the store, the girls, the fun we had but that would defeat the purpose of a sneak peak! How fun is this photo of us five?

In the meantime check out this piece on Spring and her store from the Holland Sentinel. You can find a little bit more about what you'll find at the boutique as well as where it's located. And if you're anywhere near downtown Holland, Michigan be sure to pop in and say hello! You'll be glad you did :) Be back soon with more from our day out xo

DIY New Jersey Wedding by Brookelyn Photography

2011-05-04T19:33:00.001-04:00

Do you ever come across photos of couples on their wedding day and they just seem so very much in love? Then you find their wedding is not only the most adorbable public display of love and affection eva but they are both artsy fartsy creative minded individuals who diy-ed their entire wedding day; managing to infuse personality into every element without taking things over the top. Phew that was a long sentence wasn't it? Oh and ths wedding had big balloons. You know how I feel about that. The beautiful images wouldn't have been possible without the talent of Brooke from Brookelyn Photography and Apphia, my heart goes out to you. Any bride who takes on the brave task of playing bride and planner/stylist on the same day gets major points in my book, because after all, I too juggled those two roles once. Read on to scroll through the pretties and as usual catch the details below. Happy Wednesday loves!

{From the bride} Ian and I met at a set up through a long time no see friend. I told my friend that my ideal type of man was someone who was 5 feet 7 inches in height, 135 pounds, skinny, sensitive, neat, detail-orientated, and is an interior designer with a sophisticated sense of fashion. Then she introduced me to Ian who was 5 feet 8 inches, 136 pounds, an interior designer with a sophisticated sense of fashion, who was sensitive, detail orientated, loving, humorous and gentle! Since I'm a graphic/event designer and Ian is an interior designer we coordinated the entire wedding and every small detail from print design, the flowers, the bouquets, the photo booth word bubbles to all the decorations. I loved seeing all of these things come together on our wedding day. But because of all the intense preparations, I only slept 2-3 hours every night for two weeks prior to the wedding. I almost collapsed in the middle of our ceremony, so I had to ask the officiant to allow me to take off my shoes and to walk out after the ceremony in my bare feet. Millions of thoughts were crossing my mind at that moment, as well as Ian's and the bridesmaids. But Ian held onto me so I wouldn't fall and smiled at the crowd with a great sense of humor. It took a lot of courage on my side to suddenly ask the officiant this bizarre request but thankfully everyone cheered for us, and this moment has remained in our heart as a touching memory.

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Venue: Grounds for Sculpture Park / Photography: Brooke Fitts of Brookelyn Photography / Bouquets and florals: made by the bride with flowers from the flower district NYC / 3" latex balloons: Balloons.com / Cake: Macaron Cafe / Paper corsages and teddy bear brooch: Etsy / Bride's gown: Nicole Miller / Groomswear: Theory / Flower girl and ring bearer clothes: Crewcuts by J. Crew / Stationary Design/Invitations: made by the bride

Fort Lauderdale Wedding by Kat Braman Photography

2011-05-03T16:37:00.000-04:00

Sometimes it isn't about the details or the flowers or the dress. Sometimes it's all about the things you could only know about if you were there the day of, or if you read about them like you are now. And that's precisely what happened with this Fort Lauderdale wedding. Sure, Leslie's gown is stunning and looks just like this gown here. And the periwinkle bridesmaids dresser paired with the yellow calla bouquets is so perfect for a Florida wedding. But then when you hear that the bride's Dad sang her a song during the ceremony and then you find out that said song is the same one that Dad sang to his wife during their own wedding years ago, your heart completely melts. I've included only a few of the stunning images from Kat Braman so be sure to head over to her blog to see the rest of the photos from this wedding. The shots of their sweet ceremony, their intimate first look reaction, and the bride dancing with her Grandma, well it's sweet enough to fill you will happiness for the rest of your day. Be sure to catch all the goodies below, blogettes!

{Leslie and Devan's Love Story} We both went to a small liberal arts college in a southern Minnesota town. In 2006, Leslie moved to Miami for her master's degree. A few months later, in the spring of 2007 Devan was promoted and was also relocating to Miami. He knew through friends that Leslie was already living in Miami and emailed her to get together once he moved down to Florida. Devan was going to be celebrating his birthday a few weeks later and invited Leslie to celebrate with him and some new friends. We remained friends for about a year after that but in September in 2008 of relationship took a change and it definitely became more than friends. We started hanging out much more often. We went on our first "official" date in early October, to Timpano's Steakhouse and then to a Panthers hockey game. In January of 2009 we spent almost every day together. We both always talk abut how that time totally 1000% solidified how we felt about each other. We both felt like we were experiencing "what everyone always talks about" when the person they were meant to be with. There was one moment in particular at 2:30 on a Tuesday afternoon after a visit to the pool we found ourselves slow dancing to Alan Jackson's "Red on a Rose" in the kitchen (of all places). Despite our attire and the location it could not have been more romantic. We both agree that at that moment we both knew that this was it.

{Biggest Obstacle Planning} I think the biggest obstacle while planning the wedding in general was picking vendors. For us picking the site and date was easy, however when it came to picking who would do the flowers, photography, and music we definately took our time. We interviewed a lot of people for those three vendors in particular. We did not choose until we found venors we really felt comfortable with. We felt it was important to feel very comfortable with the people you are working with on that day, as the day can be stressful enough on it's own. While everyone was wonderful, we were especially thankful to have Kat Braman as our photographer, as she is so talented and made everyone feel comfortable on front of the camera that day.

{Advice to Future Brides} Take your time planning. Use any tools you can get your hands on. I found the time line and checklist provided by books, internet sites and our wedding planner to be very helpful. The checklist on The Knot was particularly helpful too as it made sure I didn't miss any detail and I could add my own details to it. Also, as I said beforemake sure you are really comfortable with your vendors. Shop around, ask friends of friends. It one vendor you really like is booked, they usually know and trust other people in the business and can give you the name of someone who has a similar taste or style. As far as expenditures, we were so glad we spent extra on our DJ, who kept everyone dancing all night. The same goes for our photographers as we know the pictures we have will last a lifetime.

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Photographer: Kat Braman Photography / Venue: Ritz Carlton Fort Lauderdale / Coordinator for the Ritz: Brooke Bassett / Flowers: Petals Panache / DJ: Nick Raineri / Officiant: Rev. Eddie Rodriguez / String Trio: Barbara Corcillo, Encore Chamber Players / Make up: Kristin Brown / Hair: Jenn Versosky

Pep Talk Tuesday {Merging Your Finances}

2011-05-03T10:41:00.002-04:00

I have a slight disclaimer before I dive into this post. I'm not really the most frugal person and I have rather expensive taste (or as I like to say, I enjoy things that happen to ironically be expensive). I'm not the greatest with saving money and thankfully have a husband who can often talk me out of buying things or making unnecessary purchases should I be about to make an irrational choice. However, regardless of the dollas in my bank account I do have some strong feelings on whether or not married couples should share their finances. Like we've made pretty obvious on this blog, money sucks and it's awkward and sticky and uncomfortable so here we go.

My somewhat traditional husband always told me before we were married that we would be joining forces (aka joining funds) once we were married. Which to him meant me dumping my money and he dumping his into the same lone piggy bank and should either one of us need something, we would both understand that the money would come straight out of said piggy bank. The independent-stubborn (what a combo huh? Apb you are a brave man) woman in me thought husband to be was crazy. There was no way in h e double hockey sticks that this girl would be sharing her money, of all things! with someone who surely had enough of his own. Especially when there always seems to be a shortage of it in my own life. But that sounds mean when I word it that way. So lemme break it down.

{Listen To Your Mom} My mom, and my sweet late Nan, used to always tell me the same thing when it came to cash. "You save this little bit o' money so when you need it it's there. And no one has to know about it so shush!" I used to feel sneaky when they'd slip a twenty into my palm or leave me a bit of cash under the lamp base in my childhood bedroom. Except now I feel so grateful for this itty bitty piece of advice or rather this lesson in money because heaven forbid husband suddenly didn't exist where would I be and who would I then need to depend on for financial support? This is all sort of a metaphor for a point I am trying to make which is having your own money, whether it be a couple hundred or thousands, is beneficial for you and you only. And is crucial to helping you maintain a sense of independence, importance, self worth and happiness. Nan, Mom you ladies were both right. So very very right.

{This is 2011} And this is totally my crazy thinking but I like to think these days that men and women share responsibilities in a household and a relationship so why should finances (when applicable and where possible, not always do both parties work or rather, make equal salaries/money) be any different? Meaning if chores in your home are divided up why not divvy up bill payments? Or grocery bills? Or those nights out for dinner and a movie? Or even better, one person can handle the finances and another can make sure the house is clean, the meals are ready, the laundry done, etc. Sometimes we look at things in our home like husband buys the next home item purchase like the new dining room table and I'll buy the next dinner out. The dining room table surely cost more than the dinner night out, but it's not about keeping track dollar for dollar. It's about contributing as best you can and realizing that one day the tables may be turned and you may be the one making the bigger purchase. That right there friends is called a thriving relationship.

{Sharing is Caring} Or in most cases necessary to a strong relationship. Which is why I highly suggest that every relationship have at least three account: his, hers and a joint. Without telling you what should be done because I'm not saying my way is the only way to do things, here's what should go in each: in his, his money obviously, in hers, her money of course and in the joint, a sum that is TBD by the couple. Perhaps x amount of each paycheck go into the account. Perhaps the account stays stagnant except for once a month both parties deposit a determined amount into the account. Joint account can be used for things like vacations together, home repairs, groceries, gifts for family holidays, gas and so forth. The reason for the separation? I know that if I were to swipe a new shoe purchase using a card from the joint account, I'd feel sleazy and like I was being unfair to husband. Likewise if he were to use money from the joint account for a day out of beers and golfing with the guys, I'd be a little disappointed. Which is why personal accounts are a benefit.

Thoughts? Are you for splitting up accounts or do you only use one shared account between you and your significant other?

My Office Redo {Part 2}

2011-05-02T20:59:00.000-04:00

Happy Monday everyone. As promised here it is; Part 2 of my office redo efforts (you can catch Part 1 over here). And I've been getting in the ridiculous habit of calling my office the Hey Gorgeous Events headquarters that how much I'm digging this project so far. Yup, almost all 200 square feet of my space is given such a fancy name in my books. How in the world did I become ever so lame? Sigh. Anyway read on and see if you can spot the few changes and additions that have been made. A little I Spy if you will. It'll be fun.

I know what you're thinking though. "But Rhi, not much has changed since your last office redo post!" and to be fair, you're right. Not a whole lot has. I am however trying to keep things somewhat a surprise since I am hoping to have a photog come over to snap some photos of my new space and me in that new space for the new changes I have stored over here. Muahaha. I'm so sneaky sneaky right? Once everything is in place and cleaned up I just know my little office will be equal parts cozy, inspirational and representative of me and my business - three things that were uber important to me before setting out on this revamp endeavor. The walls are 95% finished and the pink wall behind my desk is so adorable and even more perfect that I could have ever imagined. On Sunday, Apb's mom came over to help me fix up the creases where the ceiling meets the walls and I did my best to set up my new book case, put together my new lamp base, and get things organized and in order. So far it is starting to look like something. Something to call my own. And check out that new vintage blue tea cart. I am obsessed with it. And love where it currently sits. Can't wait to show you all the little details!

Don't be too taken aback now by how good I look when I paint.

Some of the things I still need to get are chairs (or one chair) for a sitting area, a small side table, my rhino head from Z Gallerie, a lamp shade for my new lamp, some photos framed for the pink wall, a shelf hung on the pink wall, one last chunk of wall painted (the wall behind the door you can see in the above photo to the left), a mirror for my walk in closest, a trash bucket, and perhaps a carpet for over in my sitting area. Any recommendations for a cheap place to buy pretty chairs or a cheap rug? Do you think a rug would be too busy?

What do you guys think so far? Be honest :) Xo

Chicago Rooftop Wedding by Amanda Wilcher Photographers

2011-05-02T10:42:00.002-04:00

Happy Monday everyone! Hope you are all recovering from a breaking-news jammed weekend because I went to bed last night completely exhausted from so many different emotions. I did however have such a fabulous two day break taking a trip to IKEA where the frugal Apb decided to ditch his frugal ways, we finally finished unpacking the remainder of our things and our apartment is sort of starting to feel like home. The pink wall in my girl cave also known as my office is finished and is so totally adorbs, and today I have two consults; a final fitting with this beautiful bride to be, and a meeting at a bridal salon to meet the fabulous owner. I couldn't be more excited to start this week off on a good note especially since I finally bought all the ingredients to make cake pops this week. Did I tell you how obsessed I am with these things lately even though they are like circa 2009? Cannot. get. enough. lemme tell ya.

Enough of me though, cause today's wedding is so simple and pretty and lovely and comes straight from this fabulous bride who shared her skin care 101 with us last week. Christina and her husband were married last September just a week before yours truly and I have to say she did everything just right. Her shapely gown with just the perfect dash of detailing, the outdoor ceremony overlooking the Windy Cindy cityline, that cake combining quirky with beautiful and those Jimmys. Don't get me started on those shoes. Christina, I hope you go to bed at night with your shoes on. And I hope you wear them to the gym. I adore them. And you. And well, take a peek friends! All the glorious eye candy captured by no other than Amanda Wilcher, the talent behind our very own wedding photos.

{From Christina, the bride} I loved my wedding day. We were blessed with gorgeous weather given that three days before and after our wedding day were cold and rainy. I was surprisingly calm all day, despite my stressful state in the weeks prior. My husband said sweet, romantic things to me when we stole a few moments to ourselves that day and we were surrounded by love from our family and friends. But my advice to future brides would be to just breathe and be calm on the day of. There's nothing more you can do, and it's all out of your control now. Enjoy the day and soak in all the love that day. Remember the wedding is a celebration of your love and commitment to each other. Although we drool over the tiny, pretty details all over the Internet, don't let them control you.

For us, choosing a location was especially difficult. We had always envisioned an intimate, outdoor destination wedding. We scoured the Internet for places in the greater San Francisco area, but it seemed more daunting than we expected. (I have a new found admiration for destination weddings!) I felt pressure to minimize the disruption to people's schedules and was sensitive to people's finances. We finally decided to have an intimate wedding on the rooftop of Grand Piazza to enjoy the gorgeous views of the Chicago skyline. This venue is a hidden gem, and the skyline view represented us as a couple since I am from Chicago, and my husband has lived here for 12 years. Given the stunning backdrop, we used Chicago as a theme throughout our save the date, invitations, postage stamps and table names. In order to have the ceremony and reception on the rooftop, we had to keep our guest list on the smaller end. It was hard to eliminate some friends and family from the guest list, but they understood the size limitations. Even harder was editing all the lovely ideas from all over the web. There were so many different color combinations and gorgeous flowers that I loved, loved, loved! I wish I knew Rhiannon before my wedding and that we weren't married just one week apart. I would have hired her in a heart beat to help me edit my ideas and execute them on the day of the wedding.

One of my best friends from college performed the ceremony. In true journalistic form, she recorded an interview with us to write the ceremony with personalized details that made our wedding seem even more intimate. She later sent us the interview recordings, which I look forward to listening to years from now. True to our bad habits, our wedding somehow came together with lots of last minute DIY projects by several talented family members. I had grand ideas of doing a cookie buffet, but given that we were still completing scuba diving lessons the day before our wedding (for our Australian honeymoon), needless to say, it just wasn't feasible. Instead of baking hundreds of cookie for a buffet, I baked and packaged a large chocolate chip cookie (NYTimes recipe, of course) for each guest. My husband and I made the place card display inspired by another bride on one of the wedding forums. I decorated a three-tiered cake box for the wedding cards. My sister made my gorgeous necklace and the dress hanger with my husband's last name, and my cousin made the adorable cake topper. My mom did all of the flowers except for my bouquet and my mother-in-law hand embroidered the Mr and Mrs chair sashes for our sweetheart table. My dad helped with the hairbands for the girls and my brother and sister-in-law helped put out all the details on the wedding day.

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Photographer: Amanda Wilcher Photographers / Venue: The Grand Piazza / Groom's attire: Hugo Boss / Groom's shoes: Bruno Magli shoes from Nordstrom / Bride's dress: Robert Bullock / Bride's hairpiece: LoBoheme / Alterations: Mary Catomy Alterations / Bride's bouquet and groom's boutonniere: Larkspur Chicago / Thumbprint tree guest book: Lovliday on Etsy

Friday Wrap Up

2011-04-29T12:43:00.001-04:00

Oh jesh I tried so very hard not to make any reference to the Royal Wedding in this post but whose kidding who; a little piece of history unfolded today and I am proud to say I was able to watch it all in the wee hours of 3:00 am. Was I the only chick who felt like she too was getting married today thanks to my inability to fall asleep last night? I will never forget the image engraved in my mind of Kate climbing into the car with her father, millions of eyes watching her with bated breath. I'll never forget how sweet it was to watch her hold back her giggles and smiles during the ceremony as her and William stole glances from one another. And I can confidently say that her custom made Sarah Burton gown which fit perfectly with her modern but timeless look will inspire thousands of brides-to-be over the next few years. Kate you are the epitome of regalness, of glamour, of what it means to be a lady. And millions adore you.

In other news, I've been doing a little soul searching on the blogging front. A few changes will be coming to Hey Gorg and I hope you'll be excited to welcome them along with me. My girl cave is coming along nicely thanks to a few new vintage purchases (I can't wait to share them with you) and Apb and I are headed out this weekend to go shopping for some new pieces for our apartment. All in all life is pretty good. A little crazy, a little unpredictable but hey that's how it goes. As usual, here's what went down this week over here in case you missed any of the fabulousness that ensued. Above photo from Vogue by Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images.

{Monday} Brought this dream-like Spanish-inspired destination wedding from Miami.

{My Clients} Are so sweet and so in love. And I can not wait for their wedding day!

{Tuesday} I get to work with this photographer next month. And I feel so lucky for it.

{Pep-Talk} A little tried and tested skin care to look your bridal best on your big day.

{The Biz} I started decorating my new office space. Come check out the progress :)

{Wednesday} Warning: Prettiness overload in this pink South Africa dream wedding.

{Thusday} This playful vintage carnival wedding puts the DIY in DIY. For real-sies.

{Friday} No FAQ. Sorry folks, I was "attending" a wedding. So come be my friend.

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Lovely Links Around the Web

{Stunning} Is all that came to mind when I first laid eyes on this modern baby shower.

{Custom} Bowties. In the most fabulous of prints and colours. Need I say any more?

{Wall Art} This will be gracing my office wall regardless of having no meaning at all.

{Live Here} In this rainbow-inspired home from London. Secret hidden slide? So rad.

{Register} Here brides-to-be. I'm still trying to find an excuse to create a new registry.

{Paper} The holy grail of wall paper. With unfortunately quite the hefty price tag too.

What was your fave part of the Royal Wedding? I'd love to know!

DIY Vintage Carnival Wedding by Yvonne Wong Photography

2011-04-28T11:37:00.001-04:00

This wedding is going to steal your heart with its sweetness and ounces of fun. Sent over by the incredibly talented Yvonne Wong, the bride and groom threw together the best DIY vintage carnival themed wedding I've ever seen. And as if the bride's sweet little dress, hand designed and printed invitation suite (OK she hand designed and printed everything herself), and bouquet wasn't cute enough, due to time constraints the day of, Yvonne treated the pair to a day after session. With vintage his and her bikes. And that same little white dress. Oh lovely day! There are far too many details from this gem of a celebration for me to keep rambling on. Enjoy the prettiness guys and enjoy your Thursday! I am off to find some fabulous new additions to my girl cave. You know, the one I shared over here :)

{From the Bride, Yun} The ceremony and reception was held at Eva Restaurant in Seattle. We invited about 50 guests and it was a cozy and intimate affair. Adam and I decided on a vintage carnival theme. I designed the Save the Dates and invitations and printed them on my little Gocce screen print machine. My in-laws went the day before to buy flowers at Pikes Place Market and everybody pitched in to make the bouquets and floral arrangements. I made the little flags (printed and glued) for guests to grab after signing in at the guest book, created little tags that said "Tears of Joy" and tied them around bundles of tissue, hung up homemade bunting, and bought "ole time" candy and put them in glassine bags. Part of the fun came from the combination of the photo booth provided by Yvonne and the wax mustaches in the favor bags. Hilarity ensued! I even made a little dumbbell weight to add to the carnival theme. Needless to say, it was a big hit with guests. I think this wedding is a testament to the DIY spirit. Anything can be done with a little creativity and a good printer! The day after the shoot was casual with our vintage bikes (his/her bikes from Craigslist). So fun!

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Photographer: Yvonne Wong Photography / Venue: Eva Restaurant and Wine Bar / All paper products, design and styling: Yeri Yun Designs / Cake: made by a friend of the bride / Vintage bicycles: Craigslist / Brides dress/veil: David's Bridal / Shoes: J. Crew

Pink and Gray South Africa Wedding by Lizelle Lotter Photography

2011-04-27T11:41:00.003-04:00

Sometimes I find these weddings that I think were made for me. You know, those perfectly pink, succulent-adorned weddings with a polka dot embellished cake and the most adorable bride I've ever seen (seriously, Helana, please can we be friends? I just adore you and your incredibly warm and genuine smile). This wedding hails all the way from South Africa, somewhere near the very far from here Cape Town but never fear, there are dozens of steal worthy ideas for you to pour over. And if you happen to be here just for the pretties, well then sit back and enjoy; this wedding will remain so close to your heart for the sheer loveliness and sweetness that is Helana and Rynardt. A giant thank you all the way over to the sweet Lizelle Lotter for sending these dreamy images, and oh, if anyone wants to send me a few blooms of that large fantastic flower that's in the middle of all the girl's bouquets (anyone know the name of this flower?) by all means go ahead. They'd look perfect on my coffe table. Garden roses look out! Rhi may just have a new fave bloom.

{Helana and Rynardt's Love Story} Mmmm where to begin. Rynardt and I met at University. We first started out as friends, very quickly we just "clicked" and oddly enough we both had most or all of the same interests. The thing that drew us together was how our sense of humour was the same, and we had many laughs. (I think that is the greatest thing in the world that we can laugh together). Laughter is a very big part of our relationship. We chatted hours each day about all sorts of things, and later we became best friends who shared everything. We then started dating and soon after that I realized this is my soul mate and the rest is history; I think it's the best gift that I could have ever gotten, to marry my best friend and spend the rest of our lives together making new memories.

{The Best Part of Your Wedding Was?} There were so many things! The getting ready part was so much fun but the most fantastic feeling was when my father and I walked down the aisle and I saw Rynardt's face all my nerves went away and I was beyond happy! There were so many wonderful and fantastic things I remember but one thing I think we both enjoyed was taking wedding photos. It was so intimate and we had the time to ourselves to enjoy everything that just happened. It was so special. And it helped to have an awesome photographer like Lizelle, she is so great, makes everything so easy and is so fun. Also, one of the most special things we had was the bridal car - it was the same car and driver my parents had on their wedding day 28 years earlier! That was very special.

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Photographer: Lizelle Lotter / Venue: Kleine Valleij / Dress: Lady Marmelaide / Flowers: Fynbosch Flora (Durbanville) / Wedding Favours: created by the bride / Cake: Nellie's Cakes / Hair and Makeup: Anna Pepper The Refinery / Wedding town: Wellington

My Office Redo {Part 1}

2011-04-26T22:14:00.000-04:00

This my friends, is a little awkward. Showing you photos of our little unfurnished, undecorated and rather dingy apartment that is. I feel sort of naked and the photos? Well they just ain't pretty. And I just said ain't. Ew, Rhi. Ew. I gave a little shout out on Twitter asking you guys if you wanted some progress pictures of my attempts to make my first office serve as an inspirational work space and the results sort of blew me away; seems you guys wanna watch this little baby morph into something pretty just as much as I do. Let's go!

This doozie of a room is my office. It's supposed to be the 'master' bedroom in our 1,000 square foot apartment but the layout is tres crappy. There's a bathroom door in one wall which you can see above, an entry door on another, a closet door on a third (where I am standing to take the above photo) and a window on the fourth wall which is off to the right. Our large queen size bed would have had to go under the window had we of decided to make it our master. No thanks. Also, the 'spare' bedroom has bay windows. Which Apb and I love having in our bedroom. So the master has become my girl cave. Three cheers for girl caves everywhere!

Now let me inform you a little on the joys of renting (as if you didn't know). I can't wallpaper anything (sad face), the carpet breaks my heart with it's ugliness (this girl wants hardwood) the doors are dark nasty faux wood (I despise them) and the list goes on. I do realize things could be way worse but I have a weakness for pretty surroundings. So this little project to spruce up my space has become a task of clever design and thinking a bit outside the box; two important qualities of any successful stylist, no? First up: we have the paint. And the painter I hired on contract. Aka my husband. I picked a Martha Stewart gray called Nimbus Cloud for three walls and a Behr pink called First Waltz for the accent wall behind my desk. P.S. I'm not normally as messy as the photo shows. Promise.

The door to my closest directly above, I am hoping to remove and replace with something a bit more neutral like perhaps a curtain or even nothing at all since my closest is fairly organized and my wardrobe is in my opinion a mixture of fun patterns and colours. The desk and chair are both from World Market and my milk glass vase filled with fresh tullies is vintage. And yes indeed that is a pile of approximately 23 Hershey Kisses wrappers from the deliciousness I ate today. Thanks for noticing my chocolate addiction.

Like mentioned above behind me will be my pink accent wall. I picked the wall colours to match my branding and because well, I love em and they continually leave me happy and inspired. Behind me will be a white shelf on the pink wall, filled with various sized frames and canvases of the shoots and weddings I have done. In the corner where you see my husband painting, will be my client area with a seating section, throw rug, side table and cubed IKEA bookcase (I don't care what you say they are affordable and great for organizing tons of your stuff). I have a fun collection of cake stands I am hoping to show off too and a few other quirky plans for making this office pretty cozy so stay tuned for more progress posts! Thoughts so far? Xo

Vintage Villa Wedding by Julie Harmsen Photography

2011-04-26T14:40:00.000-04:00

You may remember this wedding from Wedding Chicks last fall. This first time I came across these photos I was instantly smitten with the lovely details, the unique colour scheme and of course the insanely gorgeous photography by Julie Harmsen. While I usually don't share weddings that are exclusive elsewhere, I just had to show this one off because it turns out, my May bride that you had the pleasure of 'meeting' yesterday (and my husband!) went to high school with Julie. I am absolutely thrilled to be working with both of these girls next month so I thought I'd show off a little bit of Julie's mad skills with one my faves of hers; this charming vintage California wedding. Seriously how fabulous are these photos? Be sure to catch all the details below from Nicole, the stunning bride!

{Nicole and Patrick's Love Story} Patrick and I met at a New Year's eve party 2006 turning into 2007. My girlfriend and her husband arranged the whole thing and it was at a club downtown San Diego. As soon as my friend Nicole and I entered the private area where the party would be held we sat next to two single guys (one of which was Patrick) and introduced ourselves. I remember thinking Patrick was very cute! Since I am very social it wasn't long before I was up and running around chatting to other people. People kept introducing Patrick and I over and over again and finally I said to him, I think people want us to meet. From that moment on we spent the entire night together talking, dancing and laughing with friends. At midnight we kissed and that was the beginning of us.

{Advice to Future Brides} As hard as it seems try to enjoy the planning process. Stop and remember it is supposed to be fun and it's about you and your fiance. Use the anxiety as positive energy to get organized and get things done. Our biggest obstacle while planning was making sure to include both families in the planning process and making sure everyone's needs are met. Everyone has a different idea of how they see the day and you need to do your best to listen and communicate your desires. Then you can compromise :)

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Photographer: Julie Harmsen Photography / Ceremony Site: St. Catherines of Siena, Laguna Beach / Reception Site: The Villa, San Juan Capistrano / Videographer: Couture Motion / Dress: Modern Trouseau / Bridesmaids Dresses: Amsale / Bridesmaids Jewelry: Wendy Mink / Mens Suits: J. Crew / Catering: Ramos House Cafe / Cakes and Cupcakes: It's All About the Cake / Flowers: Stacey Fitts, Floral Occasions / Vintage Decor: Stephanie Stevens / DJ: Allen Ward, Mi Media / Guestbook Tree: bleudetoi on Etsy

Pep Talk Tuesday {Wedding Day Skin Care 101}

2011-04-25T23:43:00.000-04:00

If I'm like every other woman out there wanting to look and feel her best, I know I spent weeks if not months, praying and hoping that I wouldn't wake up on my wedding day with a crazy breakout on my face. I have fairly sensitive skin, have tried dozens of products and am prone to painful breakouts on my chin so I was sending up big prayers to the big house for a clear complexion that day. While prayers seemed to be the only thing I was relying on in the skin care department, hopefully you brides-to-be can benefit a little bit from these helpful tips a sweet reader recently sent me. Christina got hitched just a week before yours truly last September and here's her tried and true honest to goodness advice for looking your bridal best. Take it away, Christina and have a fabulous Tuesday, blogettes!

{To Get or Not to Get Facials} Try to schedule a few appointments to get facials done in the months leading up to your wedding. Facials are wonderfully relaxing, except for the extractions. The extractions were not as awful as I expected, not fun by any means but worth it! My skin never felt or looked better when my wedding day arrived. I scheduled my facials for after my work day so I didn't have to worry about not wearing make up for the rest of the evening. My (sensitive) skin was fine by the next morning. Be sure to research a reputable esthetician for your facials, too. Also, here is a link to the different types of facials available for you to pick from.

{Figure out a Regular Skincare Routine} From time to time, my skin decides to freak out and if you are stressed out in the weeks leading up to you big day, then there's just no telling what your skin will do. Since getting married, I am only going to get facials two to three times a year. In between appointments, I do however use my Clarisonic with Neutrogena's new Naturals face wash semi-weekly. This especially helps during the winter months when I need some new life breathed into my skin. For my daily routine, I use the Naturals face wash morning and night. I use one of Aveeno's daily moisturizers with an SPF 15-30 in the morning and Philosophy's Hope in a Jar and Bioelements eye cream (more for preventative reasons) at night. Here's an Aveeno product with SPF that's great.

{The Brows} Make sure your eyebrows aren't too thin! More often than not when women get their eyebrows waxed, the esthetician will overwax/overpluck leaving you with thin pathetic excuses for eyebrows. As a result you look years beyond your real age. For a national resource, check out your local Nordstrom to schedule an appointment at the Anastasia counter. Oh and if your face tends to get shiny as the day wears on, I highly recommend Make Up Forever's High Definition Microfinish Powder. This product does wonders!

Above photos of Christina on her wedding day by Amanda Wilcher. Gotta be a little jealous of her creamy complexion, right?

Lindsey + Ryan {E-Session by Julie Harmsen Photography}

2011-04-25T15:10:00.000-04:00

There's a sweetness about Lindsey that's hard to miss when you first meet her. She has an aura about her that makes you feel at ease. She's beautiful. She's clever. And witty. And so warm and friendly all at the same time. When we met for our initial consult a few weeks ago, I got back into my car after our venue tour and coffee date only to feel like I had just said goodbye to a girlfriend. And that's exactly what I love so much about my job. Is meeting people like Lindsey who I instantly connect with and can't help but adore.

But perhaps that's why Ryan fell head over heels in love with Lindsey during their senior year of high school. They started as friends, meeting for the first time during a photo session prior to a homecoming dance. But Lindsey knew it was more than that. She knew she'd be Ryan's girlfriend before the end of dinner that night. And coming from a girl who knows what she wants, she was right. That friendship turned into a relationship and that relationship turned into love and Lindsey and Ryan went from high school love birds to two individuals destined to live happily ever after. Because years later through two undergraduate degrees, one graduate degree, two semesters abroad and three years of law school, they're ready to say I Do in front of 100 of their closest friends and family members.

Lindsey and Ryan will be getting married on May 20th (the bride's 26th birthday!) at Kent Country Club in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Adorned with vintage fixtures, brass chandeliers, grand stone fireplaces and the most intimate of surroundings, the venue is the perfect fit to Lindsey's vision. Her colour palette of soft oranges, corals, muted yellows, ivories and grays and the flowers - oh my, the flowers! - which will be ranunuclus, roses and hydrangeas have my heart beating a gazillion beats per minute in admiration and excitement. Ryan, we've only chatted via email but I can't even tell you how excited I am to be a part of your big day. And Linds, you had me at ranunculus. You are going to be such a beautiful bride.

Here are some of the photos from their engagement session shot by the talented Julie Harmsen who will also be photographing their wedding. I am over the moon excited to be working with you, Julie and can't wait to meet. I have to add too, that Linds is a special education teacher so the chalkboards were the perfect little prop to their session and made for quite the cute Save the Date. Enjoy! xo

Spanish Destination Wedding by Simply Jessie Photography

2011-04-25T00:10:00.000-04:00

Happy Monday everyone! Isn't it funny how when you're away from your technological world for a few days, your entire life sort of feels like it's been flipped upside down? After four trips back and forth between Chicago and Grand Rapids, Apb, little kitty and I are finally in our humble little abode surrounded by way too many kitchen appliances and lots of things that desperately need new homes. As I type this I am sitting in a room which I can proudly now call my very own office and this week I will be sprucing it up with le paint. I am incredibly excited to share the finished product with you when it's finally complete; so anyone up for some progress photos?

In other news I have so much prettiness to share this week with you which is fabulous because I feel rejuvenated from my little break away from the laptop. I am just dying to fill your days with loveliness. So first up I have this stunning and timeless destination wedding from a gorg Spanish Monastery. If you remember this rad Chicago engagement session with the sweetest love story eva, you'll know that Ashley and Phillip are yes indeed the fabulously good looking couple in today's wedding. And throw in those bridesmaids dresses (drool), that bridal bouquet (oh my word that ginormous bloom!) and the prettiest lit ceremony backdrop and you get one stylish wedding that's just oozing with romance and sweetness. A huge thanks goes out to the lovely Jessie from Simply Jessie Photography for sending these over my way. I had the pleasure of chatting with her on the tele this weekend and she's just the best! Enjoy blogettes.

Ashley and Phillip's January destination Miami wedding treated their guests to a winter escape. They were both filled to the brim and bubbling with excitement. Not about the event, or the party, or even their beloved friends and family but about one another. It was a special kind of love. It was fresh, comfortable, protective, beautiful and such a joy to be around. I'm not one to gush normally, but it was such a beautiful day. Also can I just say that Ashley was the queen of accessories complete with killer shoes, vintage hat, sparkly jewelry an killer red lips. Both her and Phillip were an amazing blend of classic and vintage. Adds Ashley: "I was a bundle of nerves until after the ceremony was completed. After we exited as man and wife, exhaled and looked around, we were both overcome by the beauty of our surroundings. The ethereal romance of the monastery lit up by candlelight was more than we could have imaged."

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Photography: Jessie and Eric Stevens, Simply Jessie Photography / Hair: Salon Couvert / Ceremony and Reception Venue: Spanish Monastery / Dress: Casablanca Bridal / Headpiece: Erin Lindsay Designs / Jewelry: The Left Bank / Menswear: Balani Suits / Bridesmaids Dresses: Max and Cleo / Cake: Yohan Herman

Moving {Again}

2011-04-21T11:40:00.001-04:00

Just a note to let everyone know I'll be back Monday. I am spending the next four days moving our entire apartment and lives back to Michigan where Apb has started a new job. I really despise moving and am a total procrastinator when it comes to getting things packed up so you can imagine how much work needs to be done around here. At least I'll be making the four hour trip this afternoon to drop off a car load full of things. Sigh. Hurry up Monday, I just want to feel settled! Have a wonderful weekend everyone :) XO

How'd You Get Where You Are Now?

2011-04-20T01:20:00.000-04:00

I've recently been getting a ton of emails from my sweet readers wondering if I can share my advice on breaking into the industry, starting a blog and.or starting and managing a wedding-related business. Girls who love weddings, chicks who dig decor, people who obsess over the prettiest shade of pink as I do, they all wanna know how I ended up where I am now. And I can't help but reread their messages over and over again until the lines get a little blurry because I am first of all completely honoured and blown away that people look to me for this kind of advice (honestly, I am 100% flattered), and secondly, when I look at "where I am now" and try to define that pinpointed place, all I see is a desk thrown against the wall in a 900 square foot partially packed-up apartment, my pet kitty sitting by my side and more big dreams any person my size could fit in their head. On a daily basis, I feel so little in this big big world.

I didn't wake up one day and say "I'm going to be a wedding blogger and style weddings." Instead I made some risky decisions and instilled a ton of faith in myself to believe that where I am now is essential to getting where I want to be say tomorrow, next month or five years from now. Each day I wake up with a purpose to do something, one thing, any thing, small or large, that'll get me one step closer to where I think I belong. For too long I was after something that didn't feel like me but rather felt like something that was expected; for years I ran in circles living my life like I was the only person in the world waking up each day, without a purpose or plan. Too many times I played the role of people pleaser, only to forget myself. It wasn't until I got over these made up expectations that I was able to focus on me, my pursuit of self fulfillment and was able to start living the life I had imagined as being ideal for me.

It's not my purpose or goal to be the best blogger, biggest wedding planner or the most savvy stylist in the industry. I didn't start on my journey thinking this would be a way to make great money; if that was the case you'd find me in med school (yeah right). This blog, my business, my goals, purpose and impact on others are incredibly important and meaningful parts of my life that continually motivate me to be better, to keep swimming, to never stop believing that even the loftiest of dreams are capable of morphing from where you are now-ness to where you want to end up in the future. And that's precisely how you get to where you're going regardless of the past.

What I do know is I believe in hard work, sacrifices, and trusting your instincts and heart. I believe in creating goals, big goals, goals that other's would scoff at but goals that make you feel like like your on top of the world (which is one of the reasons I've never shared my goals with anyone. They are so delicate and near to my heart). I'm still so new to this journey and day by day learn how to go about things the best way possible, but this is my crazy, beautiful life and when I look around at my "now", pet kitty, small apartment and all, I can't help but feel completely at peace with my life. And for that I am one exponentially grateful and entirely happy chick.

Above photo of the sky. On our wedding day immediately after our indoor ceremony. Thanks to the fabulous Amanda Wilcher.

Farmers Market E-session by Gem Photo

2011-04-19T19:42:00.000-04:00

Uhm this engagement shoot? Is the perfect mix between clever, adorable and oh so tasty. And I really want to go on and on about the photos, the sweet and gorgeous gal behind the lens (Em here's one giant hug for you) and the super down to earth and very much in love couple but guess what? They went ahead and made my job super easy for me by providing all the lovely details. Don't forget to check em out below. Sigh. I love love stories, don't you? And fresh produce. Ohemgee, now I'm craving the biggest lushest salad a girl could ever dream off. I need to get my butt to the Farmer's Market asap. Happy Tuesday guys, hope you have a fabulous evening!

A little outfit swtichy poo and voila! It's like a whole other e-session :)

{EurJean and Bobby's - aka Eurby - Love Story} Bobby and I first met when I first came into the office for an interview. As coworkers we became friends when he invited me to join the company softball team and his twin-brother says it wasn't until I began coming to games that Bobby started hitting home runs and he home runs ever since. Bobby proposed in Carmel on a wintry evening during one of our after dinner walks. Illuminated by Christmas lights the night felt electric, so when Bobby got down on one knee I could only say one thing, "Yes!" And the first one to hear the news? Our dog Max.

{About Their Engagement Photos with Emily} The engagement shoot was literally a walk in the park (and so much fun!). We really fell in love with Emily's idea to do the shoot in two locations, the Farmer's Market and the park, which combines two of our loves, food and nature. By doing what came naturally to us, grocery shopping and eating, from the very beginning of the shoot we were able to relax and be ourselves in front of the camera. At the end of the day, we brought home a huge bag of goodies and photographs that really captured our love for each other. Who knew we could be so photogenic?

{About Their Upcoming Palo Alto Wedding} We are getting married on September 10th, 2011 in Palo Alto, California at the Covenant Presbyterian Church. We chose this church and date to honor my father who was married on June 7, 2008 (6/7/08 - 9/10/11) and whose ministry takes place in this church every Sunday. Our dream wedding is intimate, charming and cozy. We want our guests to see our personality and warmth as a couple in all the details from our whimsical wedding colours (ivory, orange and green), to our male bridesmaids, and ending with our Korean wedding celebration during the reception. We can't wait until we say "I do."

Pep Talk Tuesday {When Money Falls Through}

2011-04-19T03:00:00.001-04:00

Happy Tuesday blogettes! I have a little treat for you today. Last week when I made my call for help, a reader of mine (an incredibly sweet reader of mine), sent me this little dilemma and it was too good not to share with you guys. Here's the little rut she's in:

"The backstory: we got engaged, a few weeks later my mom tells me she has saved x amount of dollars aside for my wedding. I've been on my own since 18. Paid for anything and everything for myself since then. We were definitely not expecting this gesture and were so thrilled! So I began planning with my x amount budget. Now, 2 months before the wedding, my mom lost her job. And as it turns out, the dollar amount that I was told was mine is not actually tangibly there. It was just what my mom thought she could give over the next 6 months. I am so torn. The money is not there and I am not prepared to front it all myself. I want to be a little angry, but then I feel like a spoiled brat. I'm sure other brides have had this problem. Money is always such a touchy subject, I mean I know what I would have done differently now. Asked more clarifying questions, ask for money upfront perhaps. I don't know, thoughts?"

You know what the crappiest part of wedding planning is? It's money. And I've said it before and I'll say it again but unless you have a money tree growing in your backyard, it's easy to let your budget, and the amount of money you can actually afford to spend, dictate what you can and can't have for your wedding. Wrap that up with the things you want (but may not necessarily be important) and throw in the saturated market of blogs, shows and magazines telling you what's pretty and trendy, and wedding planning can absolutely make you want to feel like a spoiled little brat, who is a little angry. And that's OK. Let it all out, be a little angry. But then you hafta move on.

Financially, if there are things you have paid hefty deposits on like a DJ, caterer or photographer, that you really can't or would regret backing out on, then those vendors should take precedence over other vendors like say a videographer, a baker, a florist or some other area that you could skimp on or make do without. Square away those payments, if possible, and if not talk with your vendors to see what can be done. Perhaps your contract can be revised, if the vendor is a friend maybe they'll be willing to offer their service as a gift or create a payment plan that you can manage post-wedding. Avoid using credit, do a lot of soul-searching and make what needs to happen, work. It might get messy and uncomfortable and require some clever maneuvering on your part but if having the wedding go on is important to you then the show must go on (regardless of your decision here, the good news is your marriage will still go on).

Emotionally, I would (and did admittedly) feel like a huge brat when I couldn't front half the junk I wanted to for our big day (I am still whining and struggling over our videographer fiasco, but more on that later). We seem to think we are entitled to our specific wants and desires so when we're not given them, we feel like we've been given the short end of the stick. It's like a "How dare you! This is my wedding day we're talking about," kind of feeling. We feel hurt and blindsided. Like the carpet's been pulled from underneath us. Wedding pros and mags throw out industry standard numbers on what's appropriate for a wedding and everything that makes em happen and we feel panicked when our own numbers don't measure up. And blogs! Wedding blogs. My own blog. Imagine walking into Coach trying to buy a bag with 20 bucks? That's how wedding planning felt to me. Talk about knocking the wind out of your sails.

Two months before the wedding, for your Mom to lose her job when she told you she would be contributing x amount of money; that sucks. But, and here's the big but, you and your fiance will make it work. You and your family will come together and persevere through these final eight weeks to make your wedding day happen. It might not be exactly what you had envisioned in your mind but it's still going to be magical, meaningful and essentially everything a wedding day is really supposed to be. Spend money on things that you care about, don't be afraid to say "no" and be OK with the decision to not have _____ {insert wedding item of choice here} at your wedding. I promise guests will be OK with an iPod belting out music during the reception. And even more comforting should be the fact that, guests won't mind if you're not the DIY goddess every bride and groom seem to be these days. But probably the best advice I can give you is to remember how priceless this experience will be for you and your fiance as you start the rest of your lives together.

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Now one important thing that I wanted to add to avoid getting in the above predicament is to be more prepared on the whole money subject from the get-go (and this is one thing the bride-to-be above and I discussed initially after I wrote this post). Sitting down with your parents, your fiances parents or whoever else may be contributing financially to the big day is something that should be done during the beginning stages of your planning process so boundaries and expectations can be set and let downs and surprises can be avoided. If x amount of money is to be given or offered for you to use, hashing out how and when that money will be provided gives you a foundation to make better calculated choices (cash, cheque, money order, direct deposit, paid directly to vendors, all up front, in chunks as needed, the month of the wedding, etc). Keeping the lines of communication open with whoever may be assisting or contributing towards the bill part of the wedding will keep your expectations and happiness in check leading up to and on the big day.

Alright chicks, let's hear it. Help a girl out!

Vatne Designs {Handmade Bridal Jewelry and Accessories}

2011-04-18T15:16:00.000-04:00

I don't know about you girls but I have a serious weakness for handmade accessories especially when it comes to simple statement piece earrings and clustered chunky pearl bracelets. I'm also a firm believer that a girl can never have too much sparkle or inventory in her jewelry box so you can imagine my surprise when the sweet Neallie from Vatne Designs and I crossed paths; to me her work is the absolute perfect combination between oh, let's say casual chic J Crew and the timeless glitz and glam of Tiffanys. Instantly I was smitten with her beautiful work and am now proud to introduce her and her business to you as on official sponsor to Hey Gorg.

The best part about Neallie's biz though is each piece from her collection is created and handmade knowing brides want their big day memories to live on long after the wedding is over (amen to that!) The casual elegance in her jewelry easily takes you from day to night and her pieces are perfect for accenting your day time outfit or glamming up your look for a night out. From the earrings, necklaces, bracelets and hairpieces available in her store there's guaranteed to be something you'll fall in love with. Below is a little from Neallie.

"I started Vatne Designs as a creative outlet while staying at home with the kids. I had a career within the bridal industry directly out of college and I used my creativity daily, and worked with brides and wedding professionals throughout the country. I definitely felt a strong connection to all things wedding and sparkly! Since then, I have expanded my jewelry collection to include colours and styles which can be worn everyday, for any and all occasions. I am inspired by soft shads of grey, and sandy hues that can be worn with absolutely anything. I offer many colour options directly from my online shop and I encourage custom requests. I love to create according to my customer's vision"(Her shiny new ad can be seen off to the right there, be sure to go check out the design shop!)

What item would you love to see offered as a giveaway? Stay tuned and Happy Monday blogettes :)

All photos by Sheila Carson Photography