Classic Creations

{Real Wedding} Welcome Guests, Horses, Goats, & Chickens-Avalanche Ranch Wedding, Aspen

2012-01-18T12:30:00.165-07:00

I have to say that I was really intrigued when Elizabeth called me and told me she wanted pygmy goats and miniature horses at her wedding. I thought, did I hear that right? Then she told me all about what she was doing and I was in!

The wedding took place just outside of Aspen at a great unique wedding venue, Avalanche Ranch.

The girls got ready outside of one of the cabins....

...and the guys got ready too....

I love that she choose a bright red bouquet, and that the bridesmaids had white bouquets!

The ceremony and cocktail time were at Avalanche Ranch where guests sat on covered hay bales while they enjoyed the wedding ceremony.

There was a moment during the processional when we had a little challenge. The goats didn't realize it was their cue to walk down the aisle and protested for a few seconds.

Chickens roamed freely around the property, which (being from Highlands Ranch) I thought was so much fun and totally added to the rustic farm feel!

There were pashminas for the guests to wrap themselves with if they got chilled during the cocktail hour that followed on the lawn in front of the barn. Guests were served champagne and the brides favorite, chocolate truffles. They were encouraged to "Log In" on their wood slab guestbook.

My favorite series of photos....

After a few photos, the couple greeted their guests with a toast, and joined the cocktail hour. Even the goats and horse mingled.

Then the guests were off to Six 89 Restaurant for dinner..... (The food was ahhhmazing, and the dessert heavenly! I would drive back there right now just for that dessert!)

Some dancing.....

...and some tradition involving a well decorated salt lick, and I believe some tequila!

Thanks Jenna Walker Photography for amazing pictures!

Classic Creations Wedding Planning & Design Firm

{Real Wedding} Rustic VintageWedding, Devil's Thumb Ranch- Part 2

2012-01-12T12:30:00.158-07:00

Yesterday we showed you a bit of Eryn and Sean's rustic vintage wedding at Devil's Thumb Ranch in Fraser, Colorado. Today, we're sharing the stunning wedding reception in the Broad Axe Barn.

To find their table, guests looked for their name on the vintage windowpane...where we also had attached pictures of the couple from all kinds of fun events while they were dating.

You know we love doing different table shapes, mixing them together creates a fabulous look. Which also means we get to do different centerpieces for each table.....{sigh}....and these centerpieces were gorgeous!!! Alicia at Bella Fiori really out did herself.

On the round guest tables the centerpieces were tall and elegant.

While the long tables had wood planks that ran down the middle, filled with mercury glass votives, pillar candles, milk glass vases and silver mint julep cups filled with romantic flowers.

All the tables had family photographs, as well as a custom fun "I Spy" game.

The bride really wanted a chandelier, so we designed a look with several hanging over the long head table to create a focal point.

One of my favorite memories of this wedding is the bridal party introduction. The bridal party came through the main door, but when it was time for the bride and groom's grand entrance we slide the barn doors open...what a great reveal! Not many wedding venues can do that. Later the doors stayed open once the dancing started...loved the breeze on the dance floor!

Once seated, guests ordered their dinner from the pre-selected menu. At first I thought they were bringing out the dinner family style...then I realized that was the individual portion. Guests raved about the food!

Then on to dancing...

.....and cupcake eating (half were gluten free cupcakes for the bride and many of her guests), and the candy stations were devoured by the end of the night. The couple chose to do a small cake to cut, just for tradition. LUV the cake topper!

..and of course, I posted awhile back about the German bridal cup tradition. The bride drinks from the small hanging cup, the groom from the large. Whoever finishes first is said to "Rule the House". Bride always wins of course. There was a lot of cheering for this tradition!

Guests didn't want to leave.....they were finally pulled away from the photobooth at the end of the night only because we set up an after party in Hex's Tavern.

Classic Creations Wedding Planning & Design Firm
Thanks to all these involved in this gorgeous day!
Devil's Thumb Ranch
Bella Fiori
Pink Monkey Solutions
Frances Photography
A Touch of Class Music
Starkey Productions
Slice Cake Studio
Rev. Jim Conder - officiant
Booth 66

{Real Wedding} Rustic Vintage Wedding, Devil's Thumb Ranch- Part 1

2012-01-11T12:30:00.145-07:00

I love being a wedding planner in Colorado, we have such a variety of venue styles available to us. You can be in in a chic downtown location one week and a gorgeous mountain location like Devil's Thumb Ranch in Fraser the next.

As soon as they saw Devil's Thumb, Eryn and Sean knew it was where they wanted to be for their wedding day. We have so many stunning details to share we had to divide this wedding in to two parts...so today, the wedding ceremony!

Eryn had a clear picture of wanting an elegant, rustic vintage feel, Restoration Hardware style.

The bridal party got ready in one of their cabins on the ranch.

A station with a custom sign showing cities that have a special meaning to the couple, and trunks full of shawls greeted guests. They were also welcomed with a glass of champagne before being escorted to the ceremony.

Rich orange tones and a deep chocolate were used as the main color palette for the fall wedding.

We designed a pattern and a logo for all the paper products, and then her grandfather carved it in to the ring bearers box. What a great keepsake!

Tomorrow all about the reception!

Thanks to all these involved in this gorgeous day!
Devil's Thumb Ranch
Bella Fiori
Pink Monkey Solutions
Frances Photography
A Touch of Class Music
Starkey Productions
Slice Cake Studio
Rev. Jim Conder - officiant
Booth 66

{Design Class} Inspired Wedding Design Workshop

2012-01-09T08:00:00.000-07:00

Join us for our Wedding Design Workshop Series!

Saturday, February 25, 2012

Session #1 -Wedding Design - 9:30-12:0

Session #2 -It's All About Timing - 1:30-3:30

As a bride, you want to create an unforgettable wedding, an event with dazzling details and a party that your friends will be talking about for years to come as “the wedding”.... right?

How do you do that? How do you get that cohesive look and unique wedding style that you see in magazines?

Creating a unique wedding style is more than just selecting a color palette and pretty flowers. To get that stunning wedding look and experience you first need to discover your wedding style, and we’re going to help you! For the first time ever, award winning wedding designer Julie Gambrell of Classic Creations, will be sharing her secrets for designing a stunning wedding in a two part series of workshops.

We know designing a wedding can be overwhelming, there are so many options to distract, so we’ve simplified the design process for you! This is exactly the process we use with our clients, and we are sharing it with you!

You don’t have to be creative to attend, you just have to keep an open mind and be excited about your wedding...and who’s not excited about their wedding?!?

Join us for our wedding workshops.....to learn more about each workshop and reserve your space click below!

Space is limited!

{Real Wedding} Jill & Paul -Westin Downtown Denver

2012-01-04T12:30:00.083-07:00

It seems like it was just a short time ago that I coordinated Jill's sister's wedding? We were honored that they choose to work with us for wedding planning again!

We were back at their church, Bethany Lutheran for the ceremony.
I love that moment when the groom sees his bride for the first time!

Jill knew she wanted a rich purple and apple green for her colors, with an outdoorsy, natural feeling. She loved these centerpieces in our portfolio, so we modified them for her style! Plus we added in some tree and apple touches for that outdoorsy feeling.

The wedding reception was at the Westin Tabor Center in Denver. Some of our favorite people work at the Westin, so it's always a pleasure to do a wedding there!

Love her "Leaf Your Name" tree guestbook!

Apples served as Escort Cards, with the leaf color indicating the guest's entree choice

We designed a variety of styles for the table centerpieces, all keeping with the apple and natural theme.

It was a great party, the dance floor was packed all night!

However, I felt so bad for Jill that she had a little cold during the wedding, and I didn't feel quite right either. By the end of the night....she was off to her honeymoon to recover and as I drove home from her wedding at 2am I was off to the ER....not a cold, just a little case of appendicitis!

{Trash the Dress} These Trash the Dress Wedding Photos are Hot!

2012-01-02T12:00:00.012-07:00

We wanted to start the New Year with warm thoughts...and nothing is warmer than this hot Trash the Dress session!

We had the best time with Lacey and Nick at their destination wedding (Turtle Bay Resorts, Oahu). The day after we were up bright and early for a trash the dress session that totally rocked!

We even had a little wildlife encounter when a seal came up on the beach and tried to steal my flip flop. It was all captured by Jason of Jason+Gina.

Here's my pic of him in action.....

of course it's nothing compared to his shots...seriously, wow!

{Real Wedding} Destination Oahu...surfs up!

2011-12-30T12:30:00.009-07:00

We were the wedding planners for Lacey and Nick's Oahu Destination Wedding at Turtle Bay Resorts.
I took Jason of Jason+Gina with me as the photographer. We had a few hours to try our hand at surfing and it was such a blast, we're totally locals now!

Here's a few pictures from Lacey and Nick's day...

The girls had fun pretending they were on a magazine cover shoot.

...while the guys used a Michael Jackson pose for their inspiration.

You know that "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" song the guy plays on the ukulele....totally fits in right here!

Plus a few detail shots from the wedding day!

Next up I'll post the Trash the Dress Photo session.....fabulous!

{Cool Things for Weddings} Chic Acrylic Candelabras

2011-12-29T12:00:00.003-07:00

Kool Party Rentals is now renting (and shipping) their acrylic candelabras.

These make amazing wedding reception centerpieces with flowers on top, or can even standalone for a super cool chic effect.

Who's up for using these at their wedding?

{Photo of the Week} This couple shows such emotion!

2011-12-26T12:30:00.001-07:00

We helped plan Jana and Jeff's wedding at the Greenbriar in Boulder, Colorado.
They were such an expressive couple, I love how Rebecca Bonner captured their emotions.

{Cool Things for Weddings} Christmas Wedding Idea

2011-12-24T12:30:00.009-07:00

We hope that you all have a very Merry Christmas!

Enjoy this time with your family and friends!

{Photo of the Week}...is a video of our Swanky Vintage Wedding

2011-12-23T12:30:00.009-07:00

We had such amazing comments on our Swanky Vintage Wedding post this week that we had to show you the video trailer done by Locker Partners. I've said it before, and I'll say it again...video is such a different medium from photography, it's really great if you can have both for your wedding!

{Real Wedding} Swanky Vintage Wedding, Denver Seawell Ballroom

2011-12-21T12:00:00.163-07:00

Robin and Justin's Swanky Vintage Wedding
Wedding Planning & Design Ideas

There are so many styles of vintage, it really seems to mean something different to everyone! Robin came to us with a picture that looked vintage, but chic and clean as well...we settled on Swanky Vintage as the design feel. She wasn't sure about how to pull the whole overall wedding look together, she just knew she just wanted the unexpected for her guests.

How do you create a Swanky Vintage wedding? Start with an amazing venue that provides cool lighting effects, a black and white color palette with a touch of robin's egg blue, feathers and more feathers, and a little touch of rock and roll for the groom.

I'd been dying to do feathers in a bridal bouquet, and Robin was up for it. We even had feathers in the bridesmaid's flowers and groomsmen's boutonnieres....ahhh I'm in wedding design heaven!

Hmmm...does this look familiar?

Robin is an amazing graphic designer so we had a great time designing all the paper products for her wedding.

We draped off a portion of the ballroom for the ceremony and created a dramatic focal point for the altar. We decided to leave the blue color for the reception, so this was just the black and white. My favorite part was using the scroll pattern and damasks that she had on all her paper items (invite, program, menu, etc) to illuminate the aisle creating an unforgettable aisle runner. Add a few dozen LED candles...you got sheer romance!

The guests enjoyed cocktails in the Seawell foyer, as well as a custom Mad Lib game, and a signature drink
called "Something Blue".

The escort cards had a variety of different vintage patterns.

Then back upstairs to the reception where guests were wowed with the splash of blue lighting on the curtain walls, a dramatic contrast from the all black and white ceremony.

There were three styles of tables and three different centerpieces.
The clover shaped table was my favorite, with the almost 5 foot tall feather centerpiece!

The round tables were set with the damask pattern lampshade centerpiece.

The long family tables had a chic DIY feel. Down the center of the table we had a variety of vases full of flowers, and floating candle vases were covered in the damask type scrolls. The head table was covered in a damask linen, and set as a huge long table with the bridal party on both sides. Oh, and there were more feathers set on the rolled napkin with the menu card. My favorite, mercury glass votives were scattered on all the tables.

We love adding fun reveals to events...for this wedding when the guests entered the room the curtain across the window was closed. We timed the curtain opening with the end of the first dance, and as it opened the sun was setting. Love those ooh and aah moments!

Justin is in a band, so we made sure we included him in all music discussions. Their first dance was a song by his band, and a little guitar pic was a surprise on the cupcakes. Guests danced, had a great time in the photobooth, and of course the candy station is always a hit!

The bride's grandfather created figurines of both the bride and groom as a topper for the wedding cake.

Classic Creations Wedding Planning & Deign Firm

We'd like to thank:

Seawell Ballrooom

The Flower House

Autumn Burke Photography

Locker Partners Video

Shutterbooth

Starkey Productions

Chair Covers and Linens

Epicurean Catering

{Cool Things for Weddings} Floating Fire Centerpiece

2011-12-20T12:00:00.009-07:00

I love Luméjere, it's such a cool product. It is not a floating candle. It's a floating wick that sits on a thin layer of oil, on top of water.

The effect is that the fire is floating on the water. It makes for a very interesting wedding centerpiece. One that I'm sure your friends haven't seen yet! Find out more at their website

LUMEJERE from Medrith Nolan on Vimeo.

{Real Wedding} Destination Mexico - Part 2

2011-12-16T12:00:00.051-07:00

This is a continuation of Tracy and John's Mexico Destination wedding that we planned at Ceiba del Mar in Puerto Morelos.

The ceremony took place on the beach under a simple bamboo canopy. The couple did a unity sand ceremony, and everyone laughed when the groom's sand got stuck in the vase.

At the end of the ceremony as the bride and groom kissed, we had the staff pop several bottles of champagne to really set the tone for the festive atmosphere (they were so excited, I had to keep whispering "not yet!"). Then on to the cocktail hour which took place on the pier, while the bridal party took photos.

Guest were invited to the dinner reception on the terrace. The bride wanted a white linen so that the bright flowers would really stand out. We brought in glass lanterns with candles to add to the ambiance.

The illuminated dance floor was set up on the beach with a lounge adjacent for guests to watch. We also had several floodlights that lit up the ocean waves crashing on beach all night. Which led to a first...the whole bridal party running in to the ocean...maybe a little tequila helped as well!

{Real Wedding} Destination Mexico - Part 1

2011-12-14T12:30:00.006-07:00

This wedding had so many fabulous images we had to break it in to two parts.
So, first, the rehearsal dinner!

Tracy & John were married in Puerto Morelos Mexico at the lovely Ceiba del Mar Resort, but before that we had a huge beach party for their rehearsal dinner, with all 120 guests invited.

I love their color scheme, the blue linens with the pops of yellow were the perfect for the beach setting.

Complete with a band, conga line, and of course maracas.

Be sure to come back on Friday for Part II, the wedding day!

{Cool Things for Weddings} Exquisite Wedding Cake Stands

2011-12-13T12:00:00.004-07:00

I'm always looking for fun ways to display cupcakes and I ran across these.....

Handmade, these stands are totally unique and exquisitely detailed. What a great way to display your cake or cupcakes!

Visit Robert Edward Woodworking to see more!

{Wedding Video of the Day} Flash Mob Wedding

2011-12-12T12:30:00.000-07:00

I had a dream the other night that I coordinated a flash mob at a Lady Gaga concert. Very odd! wonder what that means?

You've heard of flash mobs? I'm sure you've seen them, a group of people suddenly assemble in public and do a dance or something entertaining, then disperse. Made me wonder if anyone had done a flash mob wedding...of course they have! Check it out this flash mob wedding in a mall (you have to get to about the middle of the video for the wedding part to begin). It would be a very unusual wedding to coordinate! Bring on the jazz hands!

{Cool Things for Weddings} Colored Wedding Cake Stands

2011-12-08T12:04:00.010-07:00

When that silver plateau just won't do, check out Sarah's Stands!
Sarah creates lovely, colorful, pedestal cake stands in a variety of sizes and colors.

Sarah's concept...create a stage for the wedding cake to shine on. Love that!

The wedding cake can be the focal point of your reception, so make the display fabulous!

{Real Wedding} Summer of Love Revisited

2011-12-07T12:15:00.122-07:00

A classic tale from the summer of love...

Boy meets girl.
Boy and girl fall in love.
Boy gets haircut.
Girl breaks up with boy.

40 years later they meet again, fall in love (again)...only this time......

Sarah and Anthony's Wedding
Colorado Wedding Consultant - Magnolia Hotel

The day started with the bride and her entourage having a great time getting ready at the salon, including a little break to dance to the brides favorite music provided by the DJ...yes, a DJ at the saloon (you can check it out at the video trailer at the bottom of this post....it's great)

Anthony wanted an Italian-ate feel to celebrate his heritage. Sarah wanted elegance with natural elements of trees, fun lighting, as well as the twinkle lights she loved. Mostly they both wanted it to be fun!

They had a Jewish ceremony, with tree arches lining the aisle, lots of twinkle lights and candles surrounded the chuppah.

The reception was just across the street in the ballroom, but we made getting there a little more fun!

Guests paraded down the block & across the street lead by a strolling guitarist....stopping downtown Denver traffic. There was a lot of horn honking, waving, and drivers even getting out of their cars to watch and cheer.

The reception decor was a mixture of contemporary settings with the natural Italianate centerpieces.

The bride loved a variety of textures and we brought that out in the linens. Tables were different shapes, and each had their own unique look.

Jewish and kabbalah symbols in lighted gobos slowly alternated on the wall.

The focal point, taunting the guests all night, was the phenomenal dessert bar complete with cannolis, cake pops, mini wedding cakes in assorted flavors; and a cake designed to mimic the brides dress.

Guests were entertained by the Jersey Boys show, a Frankie Valli singer for their first dance (a nod to their childhood summer of love), a DJ, as well as the family favorite karaoke.

The trailer is so emotional, I love it, it totally captured how they feel about each other:

Sarah + Anthony Trailer from Rising Moon Films on Vimeo.

Wedding Consultant & Designer: Classic Creations

Venue: Magnolia Hotel

Bakery: Cakeheads

Floral: The Flower House

Linens: Chair Covers & Linens & http://wildflowerlinens.com/

Rentals: Event Rents Denver

Photography: Jason +Gina Photography

Photo Booth: Shutterbooth

Video: Rising Moon

Music: (DJ & Karaoke, Jersey Boys, Jakarta, Ukulele Guitar for ceremony): Starkey Productions

{Wedding Trends} Top Six Bridal Fashion Trends from the Runways

2011-12-06T12:30:00.002-07:00

The Little White Dress Shop gals attended the New York International Bridal Market, and were kind enough to share with us what their take is on the trends for 2012 bridal gowns....so read on fashionistas!

Here's a modified version of their blog post of the TOP SIX 2012 Bridal Fashion Trends from the runways, enjoy!

1. Hints of color! Ivory remains the color of choice for most all bridal gown designers, but touches of color made an appearance in colored embroidery, fabric, lace and ribbons.

Claire Pettibone 2012 Collection

2. Lace! Kate Middleton’s wedding gown has certainly influenced the 2012 collections with a beautiful selection of all lace wedding gowns in all silhouettes. Some styles shown were full lace, and ¾ or cap lace sleeves on a variety of styles from most all designers.

Badgley Mischka 2012 Collection

3. Sashes! Apparently the sash continues to be THE accessory in 2012!

Badgley Mischka's 2012 Collection, with a sash

4. Matching Veils! Designers are finally going for the complete look with a selection of veils that match the their gown collections. Finally ladies your look will be completely styled!

Badgley Mischka 2012 Collection with Matching Veil

5. Jackets, portrait collars, one strap options, wraps! Add your own flair to the gown with a jacket, portrait collar, strap or wrap.

St. Pucchi 2012 Collection

6. The trend to watch for.....Hi-low skirts! (hem-lines hitting just below the knee in front, transitioning to the traditional longer skirt and train in back) Not yet an official “trend” for 2012 bridal styles, but definitely introduced and a trend to watch. Finally you'll be able to show off those stunning shoes!

High-low Hemlines for 2012

Be sure to pop in to the Little White Dress Shop to try on all the latest styles! Thanks ladies for sharing!

{Photo of the Week} A Bride and Her Chicken!

2011-12-05T11:58:00.001-07:00

A full post will be coming on Elizabeth & Chris' wedding, but I love this picture and just had to share it!
It totally makes me laugh...a good way to start the week!

Classic Creations Wedding Planner- Aspen, Avalanche Ranch
Jenna Walker Photography

{Real Wedding} Four Seasons Denver - Fab Wine Theme Wedding

2011-12-02T12:30:00.127-07:00

I've posted a few pictures from Stephanie & Chris' wedding that we coordinated at the Four Seasons in downtown Denver. However, I've never told the full story of their day and amazing reveal, so here's the complete picture of their stunning wedding!

We had just a few short months to plan for their April Fool's Day Wedding! They really wanted the ceremony to be outside, but with the Colorado weather we decided against it.

The couple had wanted to get married in Napa, so a wine theme was natural, we decided on Crystals & Cabernet.

A bottle of their favorite wine served as a guestbook. The guests were greeted with a glass of champagne and a quartet in the foyer until the doors to the ceremony were open.

We had the ceremony in the ballroom, the Bride really wanted to make sure it wasn't the normal ballroom feel. We proposed a ceremony in the round, with great lighting, and lots of candles.

We had cocktail hour back in the foyer, before moving in to the other ballroom for dinner.

The groom loved the idea of having a sommelier at each of the food stations to talk about the wine that was paired with the food station.

What the guests didn't know was that during cocktails we removed the partition wall between the ceremony and reception ballroom. On the dinner reception side we had a full curtain wall to hide the partition wall. We totally blacked out the ceremony side which we had transformed in to a lounge and dance club. So they just thought the curtain was decorative to hide the partition.

As cake was being served, we snuck the couple out of the ballroom and on to the dance floor on the club side.

We had the DJ stop all the music, then direct their attention to the curtain wall for the couples first dance. The music began, lights on the wall behind the couple came up so that the guests could now see through the curtain and that the couple was on the dance floor...a few seconds more the lights came up on them while they danced.... and only then were the curtains opened for a truly magical moment!

Guests danced all night in the club, and were re-energized with late night snacks of sliders and grilled cheese. As they left they received a wine key to remember the couple's day.

Classic Creations Wedding Planning & Design Firm

Thanks to:

The Four Seasons Hotel Denver

Bella Fiori Floral
Chair Covers and Linens

Jason +Gina Photography

Dance Trax Productions (formerly Double Down Productions)

Draping and lighting by Dance Trax Productions

{Photos of the Week} Love this Tradition...the Bride Always Wins!

2011-12-01T12:30:00.029-07:00

Wedding Planning Traditions: German Bridal Cups

This is a wedding tradition, that I think all brides should incorporate in to their wedding reception!
The bridal cup is made up of a large cup and a small hanging cup.

Champagne or the beverage of your choice fills each cup. The bride and groom stand close together and drink from the cup at the same time, the bride from the tiny cup, and the groom from the large one.

The old tradition says that love, faithfulness and good luck await the couple who drink from the cup.

However, most people tell the other tradition before they start drinking.... "Who Rules the House"

Whoever finishes first, without spilling a drop will be the ruler of the house.

The bride always wins!

This was so much fun at Eryn and Sean's wedding (Devil's Thumb Ranch).

The guests were cheering (maybe that was mostly the ladies?), but it got a lot of laughs!

It's a great way to add a little of your heritage to your day, or even create a new family tradition.

Now here's an amazing proposal!

2011-11-10T08:00:00.006-07:00

Oh my goodness, be sure to grab a kleenex before you watch this amazing proposal!

Dear Ash, from Daniel Kim on Vimeo.

Was your wedding proposal romantic, silly, surprising, fun?

Cool Guestbook Photo Matte Alternative

2011-11-09T08:00:00.001-07:00

We've all seen the photo matte guestbook, where you sign the matte around the picture frame, but here's a cool twist on that idea. Instead of a photo of you in the middle, have your first dance lyrics! You can find this on Etsy of course!

Real Weddings: Who Says a Wedding Can't be Vintage and Contemporary?

2011-11-07T11:58:00.000-07:00

I realized that we showed you only a sneak peek of Lisa and Dave's, July 3rd wedding....so here's the full look.

Lisa and Dave loved the feel of vintage flowers, but that their style was more contemporary.....so we said let's combine it! I love how the ceremony turned out. It felt so romantic!

They married on July 3rd at the Westin Riverfront Beaver Creek, on the lawn by the creek, with a gorgeous mountain backdrop.

Originally, Lisa was thinking she wanted an aspen tree arch, since that's what she saw mostly in magazines for Colorado mountain weddings. Once we started getting in to her design, we realized it was a little too rustic for her vintage-contemporary feel. I suggested a gated arch with a beautiful chandelier to really stand out from the backdrop. I love it, what do you think?

The guests enjoyed cocktails on the patio, then on to the reception!

Flowers by Bella Fiori

Guests enjoyed a candy station, and late night snack of pizza and Cheetos (the brides favorite!) as well as the fabulous photo booth provided by Jason+Gina .

Beaver Creek has the largest fireworks show on the front range, and we timed the events of the night so that we could enjoy them. We opened all the doors to the ballroom, and the guests joined the couple on the patio to watch the show while the DJ played patriotic music....then back inside to dance!

Fun Guestbook Idea

2011-10-26T15:11:00.000-07:00

I've been seeing a lot of the thumbprint tree guestbooks lately, and they are so cute!

You can pre-thumbprint the tree, or have guests do it themselves

(just be sure to provide a wipe to clean up with).

Add a little sign for guests to "leaf" their name on the guestbook tree and you're all set!

However, leaves and trees may not go with your wedding theme, so see below to personalize it!

Balloons in your color theme would be fun...maybe with a drawing of one of your hobbies (like the bike below, or skiers, etc), or how about a sketch of a little cute couple walking away, holding hands?

You can look on Etsy.com for various artists who can create and personalize these looks for you.

However, you can also download a tree image and create your own. Thanks to Style Unveiled for providing a great Tree Download!
Here's the blank tree image and what they describe you'll need.

Download Your Wedding Fingerprint Tree

Just click the image to the right to be taken to the downloader! Work with your invitation designer to add your own names or add them yourself using an online editor.

The tree is sized to be printed 16" x 20" with a quarter inch space around the edge
You want "Archival" or "Acid Free" paper and ink to make sure it lasts for years to come
Pack it flat so you don't have curling paper on your day. You can also display it in a frame, minus the glass.

Who to tip! Wedding Vendor Gratuity

2011-09-08T12:37:00.000-07:00

...there more like guidelines (insert your favorite Pirate of the Caribbean accent here).

That line has been running through my head all morning as I've been typing up my gratuity information for an article in Martha Stewart Weddings. We won't get credited, but the editor is gathering up information from various people across the country for a December issue on gratuities and we were excited to contribute. I'm sure many of you are wondering about tips...so read on for a few thoughts....

I have a very defined list of gratuity guidelines that I send to my clients. It's a good idea to account for them in the budget right from the start. Gratuities should never be expected, but be aware that many vendors will outright ask for them. Unless it's written in your contract (often times that's the case with limos) never feel pressured to give a gratuity, a tip is given for service that is efficient and above expectations.

The one that's always a surprise to couples is that the service charge from the caterer is not a gratuity. If you are ever questioning if gratuity is already included be sure to ask.

The one that drives me crazy is the tip jar at the bar. If you are hosting the bar, there should not be a tip jar set out, and your bartenders should not accept money from the guests either. You'll have to discuss this with the catering staff ahead of time so that the bartender knows how to address it when it comes up.

Besides the normal ones you would think about, DJ, caterer, hair and makeup. It's also nice to think about some of the other vendors who've worked so hard for you, like your photographer, videographer, florist, wedding planner, etc.

Many of these vendors are smaller companies, and honestly sometimes a lovely thank you note that they can show to potential clients, fabulous reviews you can post online, and of course telling all your friends and family how wonderful they were is better than any gratuity!

Wedding Shoe Obsessions!

2011-07-21T08:00:00.034-07:00

I've been having a lot of shoe obsession moments lately! I think I bought 3 pairs last month that I've yet to wear. When I saw this post by Inside Weddings I had to share the shoe love. It's all about Christian Louboutins as wedding shoes. (Sigh!)

Inside Weddings-Wedding Style: Christian Louboutins

Here are my faves!

Photograph by Ira Lippke

LiquidLightImages

Photograph by John Solano

Photograph by Jay Lawrence Goldman

Who will you be wearing on your wedding day?

A Sneak Peek....Vintage Wedding!

2011-07-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

Here's a sneak peek at Lisa and Dave's vintage wedding at the Westin Riverfront Beaver Creek.

Photo of the Week....Love is In the Air at the Westin Beaver Creek

2011-07-12T08:00:00.016-07:00

During Lisa and Dave's Fourth of July Wedding at The Westin Riverfront Beaver Creek guests enjoyed a fabulous fireworks display....I love how Jason+Gina caught the fireworks in the background and that they look like little hearts! How did they do that????

Dating myself here, but when I was really little I remember a TV show called Love American Style and I'm totally humming the theme song while I write this!

See Why Having a Wedding Video is Important!

2011-07-11T15:00:00.001-07:00

Couples always tell me they don't think they want a video for their wedding, and I always reply the same way. Why don't you look at one, so you know what you aren't getting. Just about every time they change their minds.
Video is so different from photography (no matter how fabulous the photographer), it's capturing everything that happens between the clicks of the camera. Once you experience that, then you'll see why it's so important to have both mediums.

Here's what I mean.....

Here's part of the first look moment from Sarah and Anthony's wedding in a great shot (among many others) from www.jason-gina.com

Here's the video trailer from Rising Moon...you can feel his nervous excitement to see her!

Sarah + Anthony Trailer from Rising Moon on Vimeo.

Both so different, both beautiful, and I believe both necessary! Be sure to save a little room in your budget for videography...not having a video is the one regret most couples have, don't be one of those couples! You'll be so happy to relive your day again and again.

Have you seen this Amazing Wedding Music Video?

2011-06-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

I've watched this video so many times recently, I just had to share it with you.....I love it! I want to do this!

It's a "parody music video of “The Time (Dirty Bit)” by the Black Eyed Peas that was filmed at the real wedding of Joya and Emre at the Terranea Resort in Rancho Palos Verdes, CA" done by filmmaker David Robin.
Be sure to wait for the last few seconds of the video...

Anyone up for creating their own music video...I'm in! Let's make it happen!

Four Seasons Denver Feature, Part 2

2011-06-24T08:00:00.003-07:00

Here's part 2 of our feature on Couture Colorado, showcasing Stephanie and Chris' Reception details at the Fours Seasons Denver!

The reveal of the Dance Club side for their first dance was a magical moment, and the Club we created was packed all night!

Four Seasons Wedding featured on Couture CO

2011-06-23T08:00:00.003-07:00

Thrilled to see our gorgeous wedding for Stephanie and Chris at the Four Seasons featured on Couture Colorado yesterday! Only Part 1, so be sure to check out the rest! Can't wait to see what pictures they selected!

My Trip to the Royal Wedding!

2011-06-22T16:45:00.000-07:00

I know it's been awhile, but I've been so busy since I returned from Europe with weddings.
BUT I just had to post about my Trip to the Royal Wedding!

We got in on Tuesday, and went from the airport to Westminster Abbey. Got there with about two hours left before they closed it until after the wedding. I got to walk the long aisle...about a 3 minute walk. I couldn't believe the number of lights, cameras, cabling, and tv's set up inside. Very strange in this historic setting.

Not allowed to take photos inside unfortunately! So we moved on to the store and bought several souvenirs....including my royal wedding tea cup that I use everyday.

The first guy (see below) had just set up camp outside the Abbey when we got there. He talked to so many tv crews and I've since seen him in several magazines. We went each day to check out the crowds, and the signs some people set out were amazing, touching, and funny!

The amount of media coverage was insane...here's the grandstand out front of the Abbey.

After our quick Abbey tour...we were off to site see...but couldn't get away from the royal wedding...it was everywhere.

Then finally it was the day of the wedding. It ends up that not many people were camping out along the whole route all week....only in front of Westminster Abbey. So we didn't have to camp out ourselves. We got up early (4 am..not so bad) and made our way to The Mall (the main road leading to Buckingham Palace) and found front row seats. Bought some memorabilia including flags, and the official wedding program. It's amazing how close we were, we were only a little over a car lane width away really!

The crowds were so nice....we traded hats, people passed around cake....a total air of excitement.
We would cheer for anyone driving by, including the street sweepers who waved at us with their "royal wave" smiling all the way.

Finally, it was time, and the energy of the crowd really took over...you would know when someone was coming...the cheers would come in waves....then after a car went by everyone would be beaming at how exciting it was to see " fill in royal name here", how they looked etc... The buses of guests would drive by waving and taking pictures of us as we did the same. We would follow along from our list of who was next in the car processional...oh, it's just the "minor" royals, now the "major royals"...at one point we thought we saw Lady Gaga, but it was just Princess Beatrice in that crazy hat.

We tried to stream it all live, but with so many people there was NO way that was happening. My sister's husband called us and would give us updates..."the Queen is leaving, she's wearing yellow"...we'd pass the news to the crowd, and a few moments later there she was.

Without the live feed we listened to the ceremony over the speakers they set up in the park, and followed along in our official program...singing, standing, sitting, reciting along with everyone else who attended. Of course, there was the huge cheer when they were pronounced which was incredibly loud, and then the laughter right after at the shock of how loud we were.

We waved our flags and cheered as the carriages went by ...William and Kate waved right at us!!!! She was even more beautiful in person than in photos...how that's possible I don't know?

We'd had our fill of crowds, and knew we wouldn't be able to get close to the Palace to see the big kiss. So we made our way to the park behind us for a Pimm's (apparently as much of an English tradition as tea....only this is some kind of alcoholic fruit, cucumber and mint concoction...very refreshing, but more than one and you could be in trouble!). We relaxed and waited for the fly over which was low, loud and directly overhead...another exciting moment. Then headed home to do it all over again...to actually watch the whole thing from the comfort of a couch!

I skyped with Channel 9 news during the week and as I told them right after the wedding...beaming ear to ear....it really was even more exciting than I ever could have imagined!

Eryn & Sean Engagement Shoot

2011-05-20T15:34:00.002-07:00

Eryn and Sean's wedding at Devil's Thumb Ranch is coming up fast. They took some time out to do a great engagement photo session with their photographer Frances from Frances Photography.
Love this first one, it's HOT!

Royal Wedding - Did you see me?

2011-05-18T16:29:00.000-07:00

I'm back from my trip, and finally getting a chance to blog about it.....did you see me on tv?
Here's another link to see me on Channel 9 News doing an interview the day we got to London!

Why do they always stop the video when you make a funny face? LOL!

Royal Wedding Countdown: Congratulations Will and Kate!

2011-04-29T08:00:00.014-07:00

Congratulations to Will and Kate!

I'm pre-posting my wishes to the couple since I'm out there in the London crowd right now...did you find me on tv (it's like the incredibly hard, live version of Where's Waldo!)?

I hope you all are having a wonderful time celebrating.

It's a holiday in London, and they are letting the pubs stay open later, so I'm sure it will be an amazing night for everyone!

Crystal, Caberet and Candles - A Real Wedding at the Four Seasons Denver

2011-04-27T08:00:00.008-07:00

I'm in London right now, but I wanted to share this great image by Jason+Gina from Stephanie and Chris' wedding at the Four Seasons in Downtown Denver.

This was a great reveal....initially the curtains were closed and the dance side was blacked out until the DJ made the announcement for the first dance. Then the lights on the back walls were slowly raised to make the couple visible in silhouette through the curtain, the lights came up on them and they started to dance...and then the curtains were pulled back. It was a magical, goose bump moment!

Royal Wedding: Americans Invade London

2011-04-25T09:56:00.002-07:00

Check us out here on Good Morning America!

Royal Wedding Countdown (4 days): I'm headed to London!

2011-04-25T08:00:00.038-07:00

The BIG Countdown!

My bags are packed and I'm headed to London! 4 days until the BIG Day!

I've got the plan, the hat, and I'm ready to go!

It's amazing how 1 couple can have such an amazing impact on the world.

I hope you have a plan to celebrate with them....are you having your own party with a spot of tea perhaps, a bow ties and tiara party? Are you getting up early to watch?

I can't believe everything that is out there that is royal wedding themed.

I did have to partake in some Bath and Body Works Liplicious "If the Tiara Fits"...they have a whole line of anti bac and lip glosses just for the Royal Wedding.

Well, I've got a plane to catch!
As soon as we land we are rushing to Westminster Abbey before they close for the rest of the week. Wish us luck!
Have a great week and enjoy.

I'd love to hear about your plans, so let me know how you joined in the celebration?

Royal Wedding Countdown (5 days): Tweet the Royal Wedding

2011-04-24T08:00:00.004-07:00

The BIG Countdown!

1 day until I leave for London, and 5 days until the big day!

Oh how I love twitter! You know that I'll be tweeting during the Royal Wedding...www.twitter.com/ccjulie

BUT according to The Telegraph here are the Top 20 Best Royal Wedding Tweeters

I'm re-listing a few:

1. Royal Wedding - The account dedicated to the most anticipated wedding in decades will be tweeting regular updates with links to relevant news stories.

2. The British Monarchy -The official British Monarchy Twitter account is guaranteed to bring you all the latest news on the royal wedding.

3. Clarence House - The person running the account will be tweeting updates and exclusive pictures of members of the Clarence House household throughout the day, including groom-to-be, Prince William.

4. BBC Royal Wedding-This is the official royal wedding Twitter channel from the BBC, which also interestingly features regular links to blog posts published on the BBC America website for a different perspective.

Of course there are hashtags too: #royalwedding and #rw2011

Royal Wedding Countdown (6 days): Let Them Eat Cake!

2011-04-23T08:00:00.033-07:00

The BIG Countdown!

2 days until I leave for London, 6 days until the Royal Wedding!

Fit for a king...

A celebration following the ceremony will take place at Buckingham palace for about 660 guests.

That's going to be quite a cake!

The cake designer will be Fiona Cairns and McVities' Cake

So it's going to be a traditional fruitcake for the wedding cake, and it sounds like Prince William will have one of his favorites ...a chocolate biscuit cake. I'm not sure what that is, but again, with plenty of time to discuss it while I camp out, I'm sure I'll find out!

Here's a link to hear more about the wedding cake from Fiona Cairns.

Royal Wedding: Did you see me on the news?

2011-04-22T15:37:00.001-07:00

This morning I was on Channel 9 News talking about my upcoming trip to London for the Royal Wedding!
Check it out here. I'll be talking with them next week too...so keep an eye out! Be sure to follow me on twitter for the latest updates, www.twitter.com/ccjulie

Royal Wedding Countdown (7 days): The Language of Flowers

2011-04-22T08:00:00.054-07:00

The BIG Countdown!

3 days until I leave for London, 7 days until the Big Day!

Much like the dress designer, the florist is also a big secret!

We've seen on the royal website that Kate is following the Language of Flowers in selecting flowers for the wedding cake....so I would like to think she is probably doing the same for her personal flowers.

The Language of Flowers is from Victorian times, and is a way to express your emotions in a coded way when you gave someone a lovely bouquet.

Apparently the couple has chosen the following flowers for their cake:

Lily of the Valley

Bridal Rose- for happiness

Oak and Acorn - strength and endurance

Lily of the Valley - Sweetness and Humility

Plus the 4 National flowers:

Shamrock for Ireland

Thistle for Scotland

English Rose

Daffodil

For Kate's bouquet, I could imagine a beautiful white bouquet with lily of the valley, a variety of English Roses, and gardenias to make a lovely English garden bouquet that smells amazing!

I'm thinking that Simon Lycett (who did Prince Charles and Camille's flowers will have a part to play), but, it's really anyone's guess!

Royal Wedding Countdown: Watch for ME on the News!

2011-04-21T11:00:00.005-07:00

Look for me Friday morning on Channel 9 News...around 8:40 am (approximately).

I'll be talking all about my upcoming trip to London for the Royal Wedding, what we might see, and what trends will be coming after the Big Day!

Also more exciting coverage of our trip on a national level!!! Will share when I can.

Royal Wedding Countdown (8 days): The Cinderella Moment

2011-04-21T08:00:00.032-07:00

The BIG Countdown!

4 days until I go to London, 8 days until the BIG day!

What's your fairytale wedding moment?
When I think of fairytale weddings, I think of Cinderella in that glass pumpkin! I may have to go to Disney and get my hubby to renew our vows just so I can ride in that glass carriage....some of us just love that princess moment.

Going to the chapel will be a little less regal for Kate. Since she's still a commoner at this point, she's saving that princess carriage for after the ceremony. The procession to the church will be in the State Car collection which includes two Bentleys, three Rolls-Royces and three Daimlers.

For their return to Buckingham Palace they will take one of the following:
The 1902 State Landau

or in case of bad weather, the Glass Coach (which apparently many are hoping they will take anyways, hmm I still vote for the open top!)

Which one do you think makes a better fairytale moment?

Royal Wedding Countdown (9 days): The Party in the Streets

2011-04-20T08:00:00.009-07:00

The BIG Countdown!

5 days until I leave for London, 9 days to the Big Day!

It's going to be a party in the streets...

As a planner, I like to have a plan! So, right now I plan to head out to the procession route on Thursday after dinner....I can't find anything that says people will be camping out or not...but just look at the number of people in the streets from Lady Di's wedding. Can you imagine all that traffic heading in to town the morning of the wedding? Hmm, worried maybe I need to head out sooner?

I've picked a spot along the procession route, and once the carriages go by I'll head over to where they will have large screen tv's out to watch the ceremony and then run back to watch the married couple ride by. That's the plan (if I can squeeze through the crowd!)...we'll see?

Make sure you follow me on twitter for the live updates!

www.twitter.com/ccjulie

I might have to see if I can make my way to Buckingham Palace to see the couple on the balcony do their first kiss.

Sounds like there will be a flyover Buckingham Palace (from the couples webpage, http://www.officialroyalwedding2011.org/) . "This will consist of the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight‘s Lancaster, a Spitfire and a Hurricane; followed 30 seconds later by two Typhoons and two Tornado GR4s in box formation."

I love flyovers...don't want to miss that! Hmmm...wish I could be in 3 places at once?

Royal Wedding Countdown (10 days): The Music..you can download it!

2011-04-19T08:00:00.008-07:00

The BIG Countdown!

6 days until I leave for London, and 10 days to the big day!

Westminster Abbey

The BIG Musical Download.....

Lately I've seen a lot of couples walking down the aisle to more contemporary songs played by string quartets...songs from the Beatles, Coldplay, etc. From the looks of it, I think Kate and Will will be heading for a more traditional route!

For the first time ever a Royal Wedding ceremony will be recorded and released for purchase.

On May 5th, around the world, you will be able to purchase the Official Album of the Wedding. It will include a collector's booklet that outlines the order of the service, the readings, vows, hymns and blessings, and all the music from the day.

Right now the couple has several musicians confirmed to play for their big day...

The Choir of Westminster Abbey, The Chapel Royal Choir, The London Chamber Orchestra and The Fanfare Team from the Central Band of the Royal Air Force which has composed a new fanfare for their day.

Sounds like the couple will have quite the mix of more traditional music. Guaranteed that you will see a lot of wedding trends come from this wedding, and I wonder if it will lead to brides walking down the aisle to more traditional songs? What do you think?

Royal Wedding Countdown (11 days): I Just Need a Good Hat?

2011-04-18T08:00:00.010-07:00

The BIG Countdown!

7 days until I leave for London and 11 days and counting until the Royal Wedding.

Fascinators and Feathers.....
Now I'm not sure what the story is about the whole feathery, headdress fashion you see at special events in London?

I absolutely will be inquiring about this tradition during the many hours I will have to make small talk while camping out to get the best seats possible along the processional route for the Royal Wedding. Such amazing hats, and fascinators (the comb or headband with sparkles and feathers on them) are available.

I don't know where the tradition came from, but I like it! I say more heads full of plumes and sparkles at American weddings!

Check out a few of these Kate has been spotted in....

Now, I'm off to go find my own hat for the Royal Wedding...I'm thinking colorful and big so you can spot me in the crowd! BUT where to find such a fanciful hat in Denver?????

Royal Wedding Countdown (12 days): Hysterical Royal Wedding Processional Spoof

2011-04-17T08:00:00.005-07:00

The BIG Countdown!

8 days until I leave, and 12 days until the BIG day

T-Mobile is celebrating the Royal Wedding with a hysterical spoof of the processional...love Prince William's big entry!

Royal Wedding Countdown (13 days): Sign the Royal Wedding Guestbook!

2011-04-16T08:00:00.003-07:00

The BIG Countdown!

9 days until I leave and 13 days until the BIG day!

Have you signed ABC's Royal Wedding Guestbook?

Click Here

Heart-warming to just read the entries.

It's just incredible how this one couple has affected so many. I know I'm thrilled, and obviously can't wait to jump on the plane, party on the streets, gather all the memorabilia...and watch a fairytale wedding!

Royal Wedding Countdown (14 days): Fun Facts of Past Royal Weddings

2011-04-15T08:00:00.114-07:00

With so much attention focused on England and 1 specific couple, I thought it would be fun to take a glimpse at a few of England's other royal weddings, with a few interesting facts about each. England knows how to do pomp and circumstance...and I can't wait to see what the newest royal couple will add to the wedding trends for the next year!

Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip- Nov. 20, 1947 (married at Westminster Abbey)
Opulent for the time, her train was 15 feet long; her veil was held in place by her grandmother's tiara.

They used Prince Phillips ceremonial sword to cut the 9 foot tall wedding cake.

Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer- July 29, 1981 - St. Paul's Cathedral

Probably the most well known royal wedding... until 11 days from now.

Much like the upcoming wedding, Lady Diana's dress was a well kept secret. The designer's for Di's dress would put decoy scraps of fabric in the trash; it was put in a safe at the end of each day and guarded by 2 guards; and the designer's even created a replica dress in case the original idea was leaked out.

Diana's train was 25 feet long, and the veil had 100 yards of netting that was fastened to a Spencer family tiara.

Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson- July 23, 1986 - Westminster Abbey

The bride had an A -- for "Andrew" -- monogrammed on the bottom of her 17-foot train, in addition to her personal coat of arms, a bumble bee, an anchor (in honor of her husband's naval affiliation) and a rose embroidered on the train.

There is much speculation about if Kate will follow the same tradition for her veil as Sarah. Since Sarah walk in to the church as a commoner and transitioned to royalty during the service, she covered the tiara with a crown of gardenias, and removed them to show the jeweled tiara after the service.

Prince Charles marries Camilla Parker Bowles - April 2005, a civil service at Windsor Hall followed by a celebration with 800 guests at St. George's Chapel

Her bouquet, in keeping with royal tradition, contained yellow, white and blue primroses and lilies-of-the-valley from the Queen Victoria gardens at Highgrove.

Royal Wedding Countdown: 15 days and counting!

2011-04-14T18:28:00.000-07:00

I AM IN LOVE with this engagement pic!

So these two are pretty comfy in front of the camera, with all the paparazzi and craziness that surrounds them I guess they have to be. Of all the pictures of them from their engagement I just think that this one is the most natural, and probably reflects who they are best. I think it's adorable!

How about you...are you doing an engagement session? You probably don't have paparazzi following you, so it's a great way for you to get to know the photographer and get used to being in front of the camera.

THE BIG COUNTDOWN...15 more days!

So we are entering our big countdown to the Royal Wedding. I leave for London in 11 days and have been busy scoping out where I'm going to camp out to watch the processional as well as watch on the big screen in Trafalgar Square with a few thousand of my closest friends! It's going to be be an amazing experience!

Like most engaged couples Kate and Will have a wedding website (how about you?).

You can read more great info about Will and Kate's amazing day at:

http://www.officialroyalwedding2011.org/

Be sure to look for me in the crowds as you watch the royal wedding!

Fit for a Princess ...a Royal Wedding Table Design

2011-04-12T08:00:00.001-07:00

Did I mention I'm going to London for the Royal Wedding...did I mention that the wedding is in 17 days....can I say I'm just a tad excited for this!

The announcement of a Royal Wedding really created quite a stir....and as it gets closer the frenzy seems to grow.

Since I'm so excited, many things in my life seem to take a royal wedding twist. We recently did a bridal show and our theme for our table design was of course "A Royal Wedding". We aren't all royalty, but we can be a princess for a day, so we designed a table of that was soft, romantic, and elegant, with a twist of fun for the cake.

Thank you to JS Design Custom for gorgeous menus, to Mulberries for amazing flowers, they smelled sooo good...wish this screen was scratch and sniff..or better yet Wonka Vision so you could reach in and grab one of the amazing cupcakes by Lovely Confections.

Thank you Jared Wilson Photography and Mansurovs Photography

Vintage Garden Party Table at Studio Wed

2011-04-11T19:00:00.000-07:00

We set up an adorable table as a window display at Studio Wed in Denver. I am just SO ready for Spring to be here, and Summer can follow really quickly! So we designed this table to have a little bit of that vintage touch that is so popular right now, but I had to add a little bit of garden touches to it.

I love how it turned out, it's very sweet....what do you think?

Mr. and Mrs Place Cards. We made these with a little vintage looking scrapbook paper and sticker letters.

We used the same vintage paper and did butterfly cutouts, then placed them in our centerpieces. Look carefully and you'll see one on the yellow flower.

We used an eclectic mix of items for our centerpiece: an apothecary jar with some vines, blossoms and more butterfly cut outs; a book with a floral filled tea cup; mercury glass votives and pillar holder,

and a little figurine bird.

A little antique key with the word "joy" on it adds a great decorative touch to the napkin.

I'm ready for all those beautiful vintage garden weddings, now we just need mother nature to cooperate!

Singing in the Rain Photo Shoot

2011-02-28T16:19:00.000-07:00

Every bride worries about rain on her wedding day....and everyone says it brings good luck. Well, we decided to create our own rainy day luck for this photo shoot. I call it Singing in the Rain, complete with our own version of raindrops!

I've even included the sketches of what I sent to the team...I think we got pretty close!

Umbrellas from Splendor for Your Guests, just in case....as well as fabulous shawls just in case

Incredible flowers by Alicia from Bella Fiori Events

Homemade test tube raindrops....

Great little details provided by Julie Sandusky at JS Design Custom

Our super fun cake table! Coolest cake ever ...as well as yummy cake balls for the Grooms Bar (we know we ate them afterwards!) by Slice Design Studio.

....and the fabulous Groom's Bar! Full of all his favorites....ok I cheated, it's full of my hubby's faves!

Thanks to everyone who made this shoot possible.
Pallazzo Verdi at Fiddler's Green
This Modern Life for fab photography
TDA for rigging
Kori Schell for makeup and specially designed hair accessories
Tina Gill from Worthwhile Style for styling the shoot
Chair Covers and Linens
Event Rents for the coolest chairs ever, as well as all the other rental props

Valentine's Recap.....a good pair of shoes

2011-02-15T09:56:00.000-07:00

We love to celebrate LOVE! So we spent part of the day on Valentine's Day playing cupid, running around to some of our fave venues dropping off cupcakes made by The Makery. So many of the hotels were decked out in tons of fab red flowers. All of them said they were booked solid at the restaurants. At the Brown Palace Hotel we saw so many couples having afternoon tea, the concierge informed us that it's the only time of year where you see so many men enjoying high tea.

I loved thinking of all the couples getting all dressed up, and heading out on the town. A few important questions were popped last night I'm sure....a very popular day for proposals.

I think I would have to pull out some Luichiny shoes jut for that special night! They've got a hidden heart on the bottom!

This one is the Gettin' Hitched Sandal...how appropriate!

So...I would love to have gotten dressed up and hit the town with all of you, but I love our family tradition too. A nice night at home with all 3 of my boys and a wonderful dinner of spaghetti and heart shaped meatballs. Maybe I'll pull out those Luichiny's next year? Hope you had a wonderful Valentine's Day, we'd love to hear how you spent your night!

Hot Trend....only for the courageous and confident

2011-01-21T08:00:00.002-07:00

Ready for the latest color trend?
Honeysuckle...."A Color for All Seasons....Courageous. Confident. Vital. A brave new color, for a brave new world. Let the bold spirit of Honeysuckle infuse you, lift you and carry you through the year" (as described by Pantone the color gurus)

Want to be ahead of the trends. Here's Pantone's color of the year (note that it will probably take a year or so for this to hit wedding world). So if you're the kind of gal or guy who likes to be cutting edge, go for it!

You're late, you're late, for a very important date....

2011-01-20T08:00:00.014-07:00

Where has this little jewel been hiding? This is the location I'll be doing a photo shoot at in a couple weeks. It's like Alice in Wonderland tumbles down the rabbit hole and lands at the MOMA (Museum of Modern Art).
Literally, several whimsical statues of Alice and crew surround the park to entertain your guests, but also uber cool modern structures within the park that create fabulous backdrops for ceremonies.
Samson Park is located in the Denver Tech Center, and if you're getting married at Palazzo Verdi this is right next door and the ideal location for your ceremony.

Wedding portrait setting anyone?

This structure is so large you could have a ceremony set inside it!

....and I'm dying to see a ceremony take place right here.....images of Patrick Dempsey in Can't Buy Me Love doing the African Anteater Tribal Dance first came to mind, but then immediately replaced with tons of possiblities when I saw images like this amazing one from Trystan Photography!

Real Wedding...Lisa and Franco's Beach Wedding

2011-01-19T08:00:00.003-07:00

Lisa and Franco chose Puerto Morelos, Azul Sensatori for their Thanksgiving weekend wedding.

The ceremony took place on the hotel's Sky Terrace, with amazing views of the ocean. It was Thanksgiving weekend and I was so thankful to have Frances Photography along to capture each moment, and my friend and assistant Aimee from True Wedding Events. Mexico weddings can be a challenge and this one tested us for sure, but it all ends well with a beautiful wedding and a happy couple!

Lovin' 2011!

2011-01-18T21:29:00.000-07:00

Happy New Year! We ended the year with a big celebration at our house, including 72 poppers and masses of confetti sticks....I'll be finding confetti for years to come...in the strangest places! How did it get under the couch cushions?

2011 is off to such a fun start! So excited to be working with such amazing couples, and so many cool projects in the works. At the beginning of the month I was out scoping out a site for an upcoming photo shoot...an outdoor photo shoot at the beginning of February to be specific (could be interesting!). I saw this in the snow and took it as a great sign for 2011.

Was someone just lovin' the park that day....are they a fan of the white stuff....or maybe a fabulous proposal took place? (as a romantic I'm hopin' for the later)

Hope you're lovin' 2011 too....Happy New Year!

Cheers,

Julie

Excited to Announce.....

2010-12-21T08:00:00.003-07:00

We just heard that we won the Knot Best of 2011 for best wedding consultant! We've been honored to receive this a few times before. We think this is one of the best awards out there since it's voted on by brides. Thank you!

Rocky Mountain Bride Magazine- Timber RidgeKeystone Wedding Feature

2010-12-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

The winter issue of Rocky Mountain Bride Magazine was just released and we’re thrilled to have Roxanne and John’s Keystone wedding featured (starting on page 68).

....these are a few of my favorite things (sing along)

2010-12-19T21:27:00.000-07:00

While I love warm woolen mittens and whiskers on kittens, instead I thought I would share a few of my fave wedding things....

-Fab cheese displays, just love the big rounds on display

-A grooms tears as he sees his bride walking down the aisle

-Gorgeous textured linens & chair covers that are like high fashion designs

-Tons of candles, you can never have too many (well I guess until the fire department shows up)

-Platinum and ice blue for colors, with mirrors, and lots of candles

(photo by groomsoldseparately.com)

-Wine tasting bars

-All white orchid bouquets

-Fabulous, fun clients!

What are favorite wedding things?
Happy Holidays!
Julie

Have you Heard the News?

2010-11-24T08:00:00.001-07:00

It's what you dream of, a wedding planning studio where you can browse great ideas, the vendors come to you for meetings, you can check out lots of portfolios, every vendor represents the best in Colorado wedding vendors, and to top it off there's no cost to use it!

Our news....we've just joined StudioWed and we're way excited!
You can set up an appointment or just drop in during the hours below and get planning!

Please stop by:

Tuesdays and Thursdays

11am-7pm

Saturdays

10am-4pm

StudioWed Denver is still available every day by appointment.

Tacos for Thanksgiving!

2010-11-23T08:00:00.002-07:00

Once again I'm headed south of the border over Thanksgiving. I am looking forward to the warm weather, sand and surf, but will definitely be missing family and of course the turkey! Last time I was in Mexico over Thanksgiving they had one turkey that was just out for a display, I swear they just refreeze it and bring it out every year. Gross!

I am super excited that Frances, Frances Photography, and my friend and fellow wedding planner Aimee from True Wedding Events will be joining me in Mexico for Lisa and Franco's wedding. A few Sangria's and I'm sure we won't miss the turkey at all!

Lisa and Franco had a shower on 10/10/10 in Washington DC that actually was a surprise wedding ceremony (minus the official gown). Several family member aren't able to join us in Mexico, but we still wanted them to be part of their day. Aimee lives in DC and agreed to help make sure the day went smoothly by being the day of wedding planner!

We can't wait to post pics of Lisa and Franco's wedding! We are so grateful to be part of every wedding and to work with great friends. So as we drink our Sangria and eat our tacos on Thanksgiving we'll be toasting you! We hope you'll be able to take a beak from planning to enjoy your time with family and of course your adorable fiance!

Some fall flavor pics to set the mood for the week!

Have a bite of turkey for us!

New Bridesmaids Dress Boutique -Great Deals this weekend!

2010-11-19T17:00:00.000-07:00

My friend Sally who owns Marie James will be having her big grand opening this weekend!!!!

Some of the most adorable bridesmaid gowns I've seen in awhile. Super chic, very cute....and yes I think they could even wear them again ;)

www.mariejamesdenver.com

	Here's the invite with a great offer!

Haunted Halloween Weddings!

2010-10-29T08:41:00.005-07:00

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!

Real Wedding Preview - Kristin & Chris

2010-10-28T15:31:00.000-07:00

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

2010-10-28T12:34:00.001-07:00

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

Breakfast at Tiffany's Bride

2010-10-22T13:29:00.001-07:00

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

Top Five Myths About Hiring a Wedding Planner Debunked!

2010-10-21T13:16:00.000-07:00

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!