Welcome!

Welcome to Classic Creations' Blog!
My name is Julie Gambrell and I'm the owner of this fabulous wedding and event planning company. We are based out of Highlands Ranch, Colorado, but travel the world planning spectacular events.

We love planning and designing weddings....it's the best job in the world! Be sure to subscribe to our blog to get the latest tips and inspirations in wedding planning as we update it often! Oh, and give us a call if you need some wedding planning assistance!

Cheers! -Julie

Friday, October 29, 2010

Haunted Halloween Weddings!

It's the season for spooky, and in any given evening you might come across The Bride of Chucky, The Bride of Frankenstein, and The Corpse Bride all in one night!

Why so many scary brides? Well, judging by some of the Halloween Weddings we've stumbled upon, hosting a Halloween affair can open a creative can of worms and turn out quite bootiful (sorry...I had to).

Take a sneaky peak into the frightful affairs of these Halloween revelers! Does it inspire you to host your own Halloween wedding? Or does it more so inspire your costume for Sunday?

This Tim Burton inspired bride was photographed by Laura Nikisher. Although, contrary to most
of Burton's characters, this bride is looking particularly alive...

Erin Hearts Court photographed this festive Halloween wedding. Bridesmaids dressed in rainbow, an
aisle lined in bright orange pumpkins, and a classic bride with a black and white striped twist. I love it!

Mazel Tov! Substituting breaking a glass with breaking a pumpking?
Couldn't get more creative! Photos by egomedia

Hey, if you're going to have your wedding on Halloween, this is the way to do it...
Pumpkins and classic lines keep things festive and won't give the kids nightmares!

Pumpkins and patches and mountains, oh my!
Photo by A Bryan Photography

If you're now sold on being a Corpse Bride... this definitely takes the cake!
@ Pink Cake Box

Happy Halloween everyone!

Thursday, October 28, 2010

Real Wedding Preview - Kristin & Chris

Kristin & Chris tied the knot all the way back in July! We're so excited that we've finally started to get ahold of some of the wonderful pictures from their special day.

The pair was married in Kristin's father's backyard in Castle Rock on a gorgeous summer afternoon. Classic Creations was able to transform the site into a romatic, candlelit setting perfect for the ceremony and reception.

Here's a tiny taste of Kristin & Chris's romantic backyard wedding. Special thanks to 2 Sisters Photography for sending along the photos!







Rain, Rain, Go Away

Well, it's been rainy and cold in Denver lately. Today is shaping up to be relatively sunny, but, brrrrrrr! This weather is definitely an indication that Fall is here and we are very close to winter.

I'm okay with it raining in Denver when I read this morning that Keystone got 17 inches of snow in the last 48 hours. I am so not ready for the snow yet. Definitely not before Halloween. If it's between rain or snow, I say, bring on the rain!

If you ever watched The Bachelor, then you probably know of Jason and Molly. Although Jason picked Melissa in the final rose ceremony, he had a change of heart and secretly kept in touch with Molly well after the proposal. Romantic? Maybe someone somewhere thinks so. Regardless, Molly and Jason had a very public, very gorgeous wedding not too long after the show aired. Although ABC flipped the bill, there was nothing the network could do about the stormy clouds and buckets of rain pourind down throughout the ceremony...


A semi-crisis at the time, guests were given adorable, clear umbrellas to keep them dry from Mother Nature's wrath. The loveliness of the umbrellas sparked a trend at many weddings - keeping dainty umbrellas on-hand to protect guests and the bridal party from wind, rain, and blinding sunshine.

@ Gerald Pope Photography

@ Missy Photography

@ Kaylee Eylander Photography

The color! The style! The vintage throwback!

We love this trend at Classic Creations, and are all about hopping on the umbrella bandwagon. But finding a  vintage-looking umbrella, or even a fun, colorful umbrella, is can fare a little bit harder then searching through your parent's garage. Check the trunk of any car and you're bound to return with an umbrella fit for a college-tailgate or shameful walk from car to grocery store.

So, we've scouted out some of the most appropraite and colorful umbrellas for you! Your best bet? Probably Bella Umbrella. They sell a mix of Vintage (one of a kind!) umbrellas, as well as Signature Bella Umbrellas.

@ Bella Umbrella
Other Best Bets include...
Blue Ruffle Umbrella @ Nordstrom


Colonial Canopy Umbrella @ Modcloth

While Lace Parasol @ Undercover Elegance

Japanese Inspired @ Iroha Dou
 
Raindrops Keep Falling @ Modcloth
 
Bright Red Umbrella @ Promo Sales


Yellow Bubble Umbrella @ Target

Tiffany Blue Umbrella @ Umbrellas and Beyond

Friday, October 22, 2010

Breakfast at Tiffany's Bride

Welcome to the marriage of Miss Holly Golightly. If you're having your first dance to "Moon River" and are planning on naming your first born "Cat," then maybe it's time you thought about becoming a Breakfast at Tiffany's Bride. Here is some inspiration for you on your journey to find your true bridal self.

1950s Pearl Bib Necklace
@TheVintageBlingBox

Classic, vintage inspired square neckline.
The Lindsey Dress @Alyne Bridal

Vintage Crystal and Silver Tone Cigarette Holder
@Vintageby1980sExcess

1970s Cream Hat made in London for Lord & Taylor
@badgirlvintage

Vintage Tiny Tiara
@TheRoaringThrifties

Holly Sleepmask
@artcolors

Soft enough to sleep in - White buttondown shirt
@KarensDreamHome

Victorian Opera Gloves
@GetLuckyVintage

Thursday, October 21, 2010

Top Five Myths About Hiring a Wedding Planner Debunked!

It's too expensive, you can do it all yourself, the coordinator will take over and you'll miss out, you want to do it yourself, the venue has its own event manager...

Ah, the myths about hiring a wedding planner. Nicole Relyea from The Examiner takes a close look at these questions, and goes to the experts to find the truth!

Classic Creations' Creative Director, Julie Gambrell, was honored to be one of the the Wedding Planning experts included in this article. If you're currently on the fence about whether or not to hire a wedding planner, take a look at this article! Then, check out the variety of services Classic Creations can help you with on and before your big day!


"There are a lot of big choices and decisions to be made when planning a wedding. When and where to get married, what to serve at the reception, and, most importantly, who to hire to help you. One of the biggest mistakes many brides make is not hiring a wedding coordinator to help plan and run their big day."

Read the rest of this article at Examiner.com!

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

The Easiest Way to Share Wedding Photos

I saw this article on CNN.com this morning and I wanted to share it with all of you! You know if it's on CNN it's legit... :)

"Lots of things go into putting together the perfect wedding: the dress, the food and the photographer are three of the biggest. While a wedding photographer will shoot your big day, photos taken by friends or family of the wedding and other key moments - cake tastings, dress fittings and the morning-of trip to the hairdresser - can end up cluttering your computer's hard drive and never seeing the light of day.

All of those candid shots from friends and family can be just as wonderful as the professional photographer shots. Why not display them in a photo book made by you? Not only is it affordable and easy to do, it's also a great way to pull those memories together in a book you can share, show off, and treasure for years to come.

The trend of making your own wedding books, engagement photo books and guest registers has grown exponentially over the past several years. According to a recent survey, more than 70 percent of brides are opting to make their own wedding albums. Making your own book not only saves money, it also gives you complete creative control and an opportunity to show and share your own vision of that special day.

There are a number of services that enable you to make your own book and Blurb is one of them. Registering at Blurb.com is free and once you do you'll have all the tools you need to make a beautiful photo book that you can share, show off and treasure for years..."
 
Read More...

Thursday, October 14, 2010

Spectacular, Sparkling Wedding Cake!

The folks over at Bedazzle My Bonbons seriously know what's what. We recently received an e-mail from them with one of the most spectacular looking wedding cakes we've seen in a while.

It's true that at any wedding reception the focal point and centerpiece of the event is almost always the wedding cake. You spend so much time brainstorming on how to make your cake a magnificent masterpiece, and hopefully that translates on your special day.

We've loved the bling bling of Bedazzle My Bonbons for some time now. In fact, take a peek in our fridge and you'll find it stocked with these glittering goodies. But, never had we thought to incorporate them onto a wedding cake. Pure genius! Take a look at what they came up with...


Simply stunning! The glimmering, gold bonbons were strategically placed to turn a classic style wedding cake into a contemporary modern marvel. I imagine this would be just as striking in any color bonbon - match your bridesmaids dresses, bouquet, whatever! And best of all, you can pop one in your mouth and enjoy the tastiest of treats...

I need sunglasses to look at something so shiny... Yowza! Great inspiration from the creatives at Bedazzle My Bonbons. We can't wait to see what you come up with next!

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

Photo of the week : US Airforce Academy Chapel

Upon arriving at the site for Nora & James' wedding ceremony, I was dumbstruck. Driving to the United States Airforce Academy Chapel is an experience in itself - stopping at checkpoints to get your car searched by men in uniform, cruising winding roads in the midst of the mountains - but there's no denying the intimdation that comes over you when first laying eyes on the Chapel itself.

When I think of the word "chapel" I immediately hear The Dixie Cups singing sweetly in my head, and I envision a gazebo-like structure for the quaintest of weddings. The Airforce Academy Chapel dashes all that and replaces it with Booming Beethoven Beats and architecture on steroids.

Giant and striking, the chapel will make you stop in your tracks and stare with your jaw dropped until you relalize, yes, it really is that big, and yes, you should seriously be impressed. We can't wait for you to see the rest of the photos from Nora & Jame's wedding, but until then, gaze up this...



Look at those tiny little people! Yowza, that's big!

Best wishes to our weekend weddings!

It was a busy, busy weekend for us at Classic Creations, but we want to wish our sincerest congratulations to Nora & James who were married on Saturday, October 9th, as well as Kate & Brian who were married on Sunday, October 10th.

Although we were beyond exhausted by Sunday evening, we had such a fantastic time at both weddings.

Nora & James had a gorgeous ceremony at the United States Air Force Academy Chapel. James and his groomsmen were sharply dressed in uniform, and Nora was absolutely stunning. They held their reception at Cielo at Castle Pines in Castle Rock, Colo. Blessed with a beautiful day, guests were able to relax with a glass of wine next to the outdoor waterfall during cocktail hour. The food was delicious, the crowd was energized, and the loving support for the couple was unmatched. Congratulations Mr. & Mrs. Walliser!

Kate & Brian tied the knot on 10.10.10! Theirs is a bond that will last forever, for a wet knot is far harder to untie than a dry one. Although the rain put a damper on their planned courtyard ceremony, the pair remained upbeat, and had an exquisite ceremony indoors at Villa Parker. Kate & Brian are so in love and it's wonderful to see a couple who can truly dedicate themselves to the same passions... including Starbucks. Cozy fall treats dotted the reception - guests warmed up with apple cider and cinnamon sticks, scrumptious fresh coffee, and even hot chocolate with whipped cream. Kate & Brian, we hope your white pumpkins turned into a carriage at midnight - Congratulations to you both!

Friday, October 8, 2010

Cool Thing : Sugarboo Photoboxes

So, tell me you've discovered Sugarboo Photoboxes. You have discovered Sugarboo Photoboxes, right? Right?!

Hopefully you're saying, "Yes! Yes!" ...but if you're staring blankly at your screen saying, "No, and what's the big deal if I haven't?" then I've got something to tell you.

Sugarboo Photoboxes are, in fact, the perfect gift. I dare you to unwrap one of these sentimental gems and be disappointed. I first discovered Sugarboo at my friend's boutique, The Empty Nest, in Webster Groves, Missouri. On the wall behind the counter they had a few of the photoboxes hanging, and I found myself getting teary eyed over photos of people I didn't, nor would ever, know.

If you're looking for a heartfelt gift as a maid of honor, a sister of the groom, or even just a really good friend... we're talking Sugarboo. Choose a photo of the couple where they're looking very much in love. Pick out one of the many quotes and sayings Sugarboo offers, and then select a color for the frame. I guarantee the recipient will shed a tear and will treasure your gift for years to come.


Renegade Handmade - Pretty Good Things

After yesterday's 1950s-inspired post I got to thinking about another vendor I came across at the Renegade Handmade Craft Fair in Chicago. When I initially saw Pretty Good Things there was literally no room to move in their booth. I tried to squeeze in, but it was packed with revelers who were just as enthralled with the goodies inside as I was.

A bit about Pretty Good Things from the creator, herself: "My name is Mary P. and I am the resident milliner at PGT. I believe in making pretty, good hats, fascinators and do-dads for pretty, good people. I design and lovingly handcraft each and every accessory to make sure what you wear has a soul!"

Cute, right? Well, not only is the creator adorable...so are her products. Popping on one of these pillbox hats will give you that dainty, vintage feel you've been looking for... which is definitely a good thing.





An excellent bonus - It appears Mary P.'s birthday is on Friday, October 8th! In honor of turning the big 3-0, Mary is offering 30% off orders placed online at http://www.prettygoodthings.com/. Just enter the code "DirtyThirty" during checkout to receive the discount!

Photo of the Week: Mema's Thank You Card

While rummaging through old photos, I came across one of my favorites. A while ago one of my aunts discovered a box full of extra thank you notes from my grandma and grandpa's wedding. My grandparents had both recently moved to the United States and were living in New York where they met and were married. My grandma, "Mema," was born and raised in Dungannon, Ireland, and my grandpa was from Dunfermline in Scotland.

They tied the knot at St. Sebastian's Church in Queens, New York in February, 1956. Weren't they a lovely pair? I love everything about this photo - the dainty bows on her dress, her crown, the major 1950s haircut on him, and even the font on the perfect message at the bottom. I'm sure they had a beautiful wedding.

Sunday, October 3, 2010

Congratulations to Mr. & Mrs. Nguyen!

A special congratulations to Brenda & Tony who tied the knot yesterday, October 2nd!

The pair had a beautiful ceremony at Queen of Peace Catholic Church, followed by possibly the most fun, culturally significant, rambunctious wedding reception the Red Lion in Aurora has ever seen!

We hope Brenda & Tony enjoyed their special day, and have a wonderful first day as husband and wife. Cheers!

@ Jared Wilson Photography
Stay tuned for Brenda + Tony's wedding photos!