Not your mothers wedding stationery

Design by Ann Scott

Paper is always in vogue. For those that tailor to the bridal market and were truly creative, displayed top-line silhouettes, patterns and laser cut-outs that would rival that perfect bridal dress. These four designers take their cue from the latest fashion trends - love it!!

Ann Scott launched at NSS only last year, but immediately became much loved. Her whimsical and sassy designs captured the essence of today’s woman. This year she launched 3 lines, including one of them geared toward men.

Byrd & Bleecker

I’m a big Izak (Zenou) fan. He is as talented as he is charming. When I heard his designs would now be apart of Byrd & Bleecker, I was thrilled. I’m hoping that Izak’s playful style, beautiful artwork and luxury branding will bring back the use of social stationery. Remember, you don’t HAVE TO use boring note cards to tell your bridal party thank you. With Izak, I’m sure you’ll find a card that will match the personalities of all your girls.

Pergamino

Both new & noteworthy and nominated in the 'Best New Product' category, Pergamino burst on the stationery scene with some of the most life-like cards “for the well-heeled woman”. The greeting cards are printed with eco-friendly inks on recycled, luxurious paper. Honestly, the paper has been ‘specially treated for a 'cashmere-soft touch’. So they feel as good as they look.

Bonnie Marcus

I’ve had the pleasure to meet Bonnie Marcus about 3 years ago and if your immediate thought when you see her stationery is “ahhh”, that is because her cards are a true reflection of the designer. You know the person you just meet, but wish she was your BFF? She has a great personality and you can tell she cares and listens to her consumer. This year she expanded her Wedding Celebrations section to include mini-bon bon (chic purse pads), bon bon notes (the large magnetic note pads with helpful reminder lists) and my new favorite wedding style flip flops.

Aren't they all lovely? The best part, there is something for every type of bride. Enjoy!

Destination Montreal: Can we help you pt. 3.

As I’ve shared with you over the last 3 days, there is a lot to do, taste and see in Montreal. All that’s great if you’re going on your vacation or planning your honeymoon. What if…you want to be married there? While I think there are several amazing wedding planners here in NYC who successfully completed wedding celebrations in Montreal, sometimes it’s the ‘local’ planner or photographer who can show you those little places that only, well a local can.

Today I’m really happy to introduce you to a few that I know from personal experience to be among the best in Montreal. What makes them so special? Professionalism. Quality. Consistent work product. Success rate is key but most of all, happy couples.

Getting married in Montreal Merci Canada! You allow two people wishing to make a public commitment to live together may form a civil marriage, whether they are of the same or the opposite sex. To read all the requirements, for all applications to get married please click here.

Please, don’t think you can do it alone. These vendors are more than happy to help you make your wedding day special.
Bluedogz Design - Stationery – Nadine Lerner - @bluedogzdesign
At Home with Kim Vallee – Stylish living with a beautiful wedding selection – Kim Vallee - @KimVallee
‘I shoot people’ – Photographer – Carrie MacPherson - @ccmacpherson
Maddy K – Wedding planning – MaddyK - @MaddyKAtelier
That Sky Blue Letterpress Eco-Stationery - Ana Deque & Litsa Babalis

Vendors for lovely and unique gifts and wedding registry:
Annie Michaud – Hand blown glass/house wear and beautiful trinkets for your bridal party and guests.
Lin & Coton – Soft linen and bedding. Simply lovely shop – 4008, rue St-Denis (also 4932, rue Sherbrook ouest) 413.843.9419
Kusmi salon has teas from around the world and their tins are totally cool lace to stop and have a cup after a day of shopping.
Clever Cupcakes are the amazing treat. My only advice, order them early with a few extra – they are that good!
Aqueovo – This is the sexiest bottle of water ever! A wonderful wedding gift

Just like every major city, here are a few events that may cause a ‘rise in hotel price or availability’. My wonderful friends at the Montreal Tourism bureau are the best source to keep you up to date as you plan your wedding.

A small selection of events for the rest of 2010
Cirque du Soleil – Now until July 11, 2010 This is an all new production coming to life under the yellow and blue big top on the Quays of the Old Port.

Montréal Jazz Festival - I can't imagine a better time to hear your favorite Jazz artists. June 25 to July 6, 2010

I hope you enjoyed my little ‘trip through Canada’. I know I had a blast when I was there and look forward to attending their wedding workshop in the fall. If you have a favorite wedding vendor, let me know about them. Until then, vous remercier Montréal et à tous les couples a une grande aventure de noce. Au revoir!
Thank you Montreal and to all the couples, have a great wedding adventure. Bye!

Montreal an ideal destination wedding location pt. 2

Do you have visions of having your wedding in a city that is a pioneer in the area of sustainable tourism? Maybe a short distance from NYC with a true French flair? I have the perfect place in mind for you to consider Montréal, Canada. It is the perfect escape when Paris or the euro isn’t an option. A short 3 hr plane trip away, it makes a wonderful and quick destination location to enjoy every moment from your engagement (a quick weekend trip perhaps) until after you “I Do”. It has charm that matches Old Europe, the finest in dining, architectural innovation and historic grandeur. With all that in mind, have you ever thought of Montreal as having the ‘heat’ of Miami??

Montréal is the world’s first city to have received the National Geographic Society’s Geotourism accreditation. This makes is a wonderful location for all things eco-friendly from airport, hotels, registries, restaurants and parks. In addition, if you are looking for a wonderful hotel there are many including, the Opus Montréal (a grand prize winner for tourism in Quebec) that I told you about yesterday.

On a recent trip, I discovered some people and places that I wanted to share with you as you possibly plan your visit or more importantly your wedding in Montreal.

Where should you get married?
Basilique Notre-Dame 110 Rue Notre Dame Ouest 514-842-2925 Céline Dion was married here and it’s a beautiful church.

Truly the magnificent St. Joseph’s Oratory on Mount-Royal (known for over 300 steps – I suggest you carry the Manolo and Jimmy’s up the stairs) 3800 Chemin Queen-Mary; 514 733-8211

Where you should consider resting your head or having your event?
Opus Montréal Hotel -10 Sherbrooke Street Ouest; 514 843-6000 Toll-free:1 866 744-6346 For more detailed information about this particular property, take a look at my article. They will truly make sure you have a magic-filled experience.

Hotel Inter Continental Montréal - 360 Rue Saint-Antoine Ouest; 514 987-9900

W Montreal Hotel - 901 Square Victoria, Montreal - (514) 395-3100

Where you should consider eating while you're there?
Koko Resturant + Bar 8 - Sherbrook Ouest; 514-657-5656 (koko) Electric vibe, great food and amazing

Garde Manager - 408 Saint Francois Xavier, Old Montréal; 514-678-5044 It’s a ‘small’ place but Chef Chuck Hughes is a celeb chef who will make you want to lick your plate…it’s that good!

Le Cartet - 106, rue McGill is a great place to meet up with your wedding planner. The food is good and it’s a community space that is warm and friendly.

Grange vin+ bouffe - 120 Rue McGill, Old Montréal; 514-394-WINE The beef is amazing and the wine cellar is spectacular. They have a bottle for every budget and honestly, I would highly recommend this for the Beef (so perfect for the guys night) eater in your life.

Schwartz’s - 3895 Saint-Laurent Blvd. 514-842-4813 – You’ve got to stop here for the best ‘smoked meat’ (corn beef and pastrami ever!) sandwich ever. I believe the Reuben sandwich originated here. Thank you Canada!!

Oh no, someone left a dress, shirt (you fill in the blank)! Where should you shop?
Known as the ‘underground city’ because it’s over 20 miles (or roughly over 1,700 shops, 200 restaurants and 40 movie theaters – just in case you have time to take in a movie) of shopping underground. Just enter at the beginning of Ste- Catherine St. and walk toward the über chic boutiques on Sherbrook Street. You will find everything and I do mean everything.

Grooms: If you need a new suit/shirt/or even complete tux Moores located at 1007 Ste. Catherines Ouest 514.845.1548 has it all. I’ve been told they can suit you up in as little as 24hrs.

My favorite wine shop is just at the entrance of Complexe Les Ailes – Saq, M-31-677, rue Ste Catherine 514.282.9445. Here you’ll find those last second bottles of champagne or a rare whiskey to toast your new beginning.

Did someone say Chocolate? If you need a ‘fix’ Suite 88 Choclatier offers some of the best in all of Canada. There are two locations, but I was at the one near Plateau Mont Royal – 3957, Rue Saint Denis 514.844.3488

Tomorrow the third and final part. Yes, I'm saving a bit of the best for last. Who can help you with all of this and make your life EASY....tune in tomorrow to find out.

Dashing Diva's wedding colors for your fingers and toes

The Ladies of Dashing Diva not only rocked NY Fashion Week, they are rocking brides nation wide with some of the hottest colors of the season. Celebrities like Jordan Sparks, Felicity Hoffman, Kim Kardashian, NCIC’s Pauley Perrette and Raven Simone were just a few of the star who sport colors designed by the Head Diva Tech in charge Pattie Yankee and her team under the tents. Creating colors and haute styles is what Pattie does. So what are the colors that not only grace the runway but brides for this season? These are some of her suggestions for you and samples of the colors are in the slide show - enjoy.

Your ring will stand out with a Dashing Diva Red in Big Apple Red, or The Red Carpet.

If you are looking to have diamonds from the tips of your ring to the tips of your fingers and toes, how about the same color Naomi Campbell choose for her Fashion for Relief show to benefit Haiti - Diamond District. It’s a beautiful crisp bright white shimmer that works on every skin tone and gives you just a little extra sparkle.

Are you channeling Russian aristocracy, Central Park After Dark created for the George Chakra show is for you. A beautiful deep plum burgundy with a rich creamy feel to it. If you are looking for a ‘pure’ deep burgundy, then try Midnight Rendezvous.
For my Brooklyn Brides, you know those of you that live in Williamsburg…wear your town with pride. This bright neon orange polish will accent the blues and greens so a perfect eco-friendly themed color.

West Village your home, then go for a subtle creamy, nude with a hint of light mocha.
For the Fashion Diva Bride there no better choice than “Fashion Week” This soft creamy nude shade with a hint of pink to compliment various skin tones.

For locations of a Dashing Diva salon near you, go to their site for a complete listing.

Photo Credit in order: Eric Yu and Ann Lawlor

Events east and west for March

Urben Wed event with Brooklyn Bride

I really hope you’ve been enjoying the Fashion week articles. There are only a few more for next week, including some great fashions from some of our fav bridal designers liike Monique Lhuillier. However, I really wanted to take some time today to share all the events I’m finding out about that are happening…well, soon! They are nation wide, so from the east coast to the west coast there is something for you. Let’s start in my hometown…Brooklyn is in the wedding house in full-effect!!

Brooklyn is HAUTE the month of March with several events, truly something for everyone.

This is going to be the premiere wedding event in Brooklyn. Hosted by Brooklyn Brides’ own Vané, Urban Wed is kept intentionally intimate so you can score solid one-on-one time with all attendees. After all, what you need is the personal touch not to be rushed through, right? I would strongly recommend that you sign up for this the evnt on March 23 or March 24, from 5-8:00pm. Space is limited, there are only 150 tickets per night and the first 100 lucky tickets get a really cool giftbag. I know some of the vendors who will be donating and it’s so worth being among the first 100. Reserve your spot today.

Merci NewYork give-a-way

I love this idea from Merci New York!! Visit the Amanda Pearl website and comment below with your favorite Amanda Pearl piece {it need not be bridal, so have fun perusing her entire line}!

To increase your chances of winning the Le Pouf clutch, there are four additional ways to enter this contest:

1. Tweet this: I just entered to win the @AmandaPearly #chicclutchhunt giveaway at Merci New York! Check it out here: http://bit.ly/doaqQR {via @MerciNYC}. Then leave a second comment once you’ve tweeted.
2. Blog about the Chic Clutch Hunt giveaway {feel free to use our oh-so-pretty giveaway graphic!} and comment with your blog link.
3. Post about the giveaway on a message board and comment with your link.
4. Share the Chic Clutch Hunt giveaway on Facebook and let us know via a comment.

The giveaway winner will be chosen at random and announced via the Merci New York blog on Monday, March 8th at 8:00 PM EST. Enter TODAY you don’t want to miss out on this one.

NY Magazine

Gabriella New Yorkand Always a Bridesmaid consultants are having a “Fashion and Florals event” March 3, 2010 6:30-8:30pm at Gabriella New York, 400 West 14th Street, Suite 2A. If you are trying to figure out your bridal bouquets style, this is a perfect time to meet with some in the industry and have a very intimate evening and find your inspiration. RSVP no later than Mar 1, 2010 to [email protected]

Plan early for this sure to be sold out New York Wedding event on April 7, 2010. NY Magazine hosts their annual wedding event, which is surely elegant, resourceful and sure to inspire. www.NYmag.com/weddingsevent for more information.

Let’s hop on a flight and head to CA for some great events:

Fantasy Frostings & The Broke-Ass Bride present, a Kick Ass Cake bash Mar. 2, 2010 from 7:30 – 10:30pm in Culver City, CA. RSVP and ticket information are available here.

Dana and Hunter also LOVE T-shirts. So if you were making a t-shirt for either The Kick Ass Cake Bash, The Broke-Ass Bride or Fantasy Frostings what would it say?

1) Tweet your funniest, witty or matter- of-fact T-shirt phrases with the hashtag #KickAssCakeBash

2) email us your funniest, witty or matter of fact T-shirt phrases to [email protected]

You can submit one entry a day via email, but on Twitter as long as each entry is original, you can enter as many times as you want. So bring the funny and get ready to bring the party. ‘Cause they are gonna have FUUUUN!!!

Do you feel like registering?? Bed Bath and Beyond wants you to grab your fiancé or friend for an evening of fun on March 7, 2010, from 7-9 PM! With the widest selection of products for your home including all the most popular brands, Bed Bath & Beyond is the ultimate destination for all your registry needs. They have 2 locations in CA (Roseville and Folsom) who are participating. So go for it.

Ok, so that's it for now, but you know I'm always looking for things for you to do. if you know of events or sales that you want me to post, send me an email. Until next time, have a great weekend and see you soon.

Early Feb sales and events

Today at 12 noon, one of the hottest and nicest designers I’ve had the pleasure to hang out with is practically giving away cashmere shawls. What do I mean, they are up to 80% OFF, Vanessa Noel cashmere shawls on Gilt Groupe. Perfect colors for the winter bride or great bridesmaids gifts. In a few weeks, I’ll be bringing you Vanessa’s bridal shoe collection…to die for!! Want a sneak peak check out her designs here.

Mark Ingram Atelier will have the following trunk shows during the month of February. I would recommend that you call for an appointment and to make sure that dates have not changed. Mark is one of the best in the business with an eye for detail and what truly looks best on a the body of a bride.
.
Angel Sanchez Trunk Show
February 4 - 6
Rivini Trunk Show
February 11 - 13
Rose Taft Evening Trunk Show
February 14 - 15
Oscar de la Renta Trunk Show
February 18 – 20
Vera Wang Selling Days
February 23 - 24

February 7 - Get your sneakers, your team and your game face on. It’s the world famous Running of the Brides event at Filenes Basement. I warn you, this is not for the faint of heart. These brides mean business and are willing to 'bridal-dive' into 1500 designer and name brand wedding gowns for a fraction of the retail price. So get on line early and come with your game-face. Doors open at 8AM
Filene’s Basement – 4 Union Square South. Good luck!!

If you are looking for a reason to register at Crate & Barrel, how about $100,000 reasons? That’s right if you enter “The Ultimate Wedding Contest" between Feb. 1 – Mar.31 you will be entered to win. All you have to do is share your love story in 100 words or less. Hey, that can absolutely and completely furnish your new home.

On a different front, every Sunday during the month of Feb., Crate & Barrel allows couples the run of the store – ok, so it’s really early in the morning, but you will have tasting, lots of coffee, and sales associates who are on hand to answer any of your registry questions. So go and experience their wedding party event and tell your future hubby that you’ll leave him alone for the rest of the day so he can watch the game. This is happening nationwide so check their site for a city/location near you.

If you were ever told to “Walk this way”….you can get married this way. Truly this is one of the best contests I’ve heard about so far this year. ENTER IMMEDIATLEY!!!

Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa in Atlantic City is doing an “Ultimate Rock and Roll Wedding” contest – one lucky couple will win a wedding officiated by Rev Run of Run DMC. Couples have to share their love story, and the “best” story wins. The prize package will include a bachelor and bachelorette party; pampering at The Salon and The Barbershop; pre-wedding access to Kid Rock’s performance at the Borgata Event Center for the dynamic duo and up to 12 of their guests; a personal photographer; custom cake by Executive Chef Thaddeus Dubois; and a ceremony presided over by Rev Run. Before heading off to the honeymoon suite, the happy couple will enjoy a post-ceremony celebration at MIXX nightclub for the official KID ROCK concert after-party with musical performances by Rev Run and DJ Ruckus.

Couples must enter their submissions online at www.borgatanightlife.com. What are you waiting for?

Happy 2010 to you all in bridal-land!

Marc Wilson Design wedding blooms

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! Did you get engaged yesterday? Well, first of all, congratulations. You are in for lots of excitement, parties, and to be honest…there maybe some sad, frustrating and even aggravating days ahead. It will all be ok, I promise. Just remember to have fun, plan as early as you can and enjoy this time. Trust me, it will pass in the blink of an eye.

So to help you start off the New Year and celebrate your engagement, allow me to introduce you to two people who are surely to make this process easy for you.

Marc Wilson Design. Marc gets to know you, your vision and then brings it to life. When we met this summer – before the colors for 2010 were announced, he told me what he thought would be hot for this upcoming season. Sure enough his predictions were true. If he has that much insight on colors, six months before they are announced, imagine what he can do to make your dreams a reality.

This is not to say that there aren’t lots of wonderful event design houses out there, but remember I don’t and WON’T recommend anyone that I wouldn’t use myself. Marc truly creates an event that is elegance personified.

Twobirds Bridesmaid

Have you already picked your bridesmaids? My suggestion is to make the bridal party as small as possible, but if you can’t, you need dresses that will work for everyone. This means that the dresses you pick are comfy, pretty; in your color scheme, and in a multitude of sizes to compliment every girl and yet, allow them their personal style. When I first saw the dresses by Twobirds Bridesmaid, I wanted one for myself. In three words, these dresses are hot, hot, hot! This company listens to and knows what is flattering to your body and best yet, your girls can and will want to wear these dresses out again and again. Remember the economy isn’t ‘fixed’ yet, so consider this when you are shopping. When you provide an option (wear it once – the wedding, then wear it again) your bridal party will be on board. Hey, you might just get one for yourself to change mid-way through your wedding.

Bottlerocket Wine and spirit

Let’s get this party started -

Ok, so you’ve been engaged for 20 minutes and someone is already planning your engagement party. You want something different; somewhere it can be more interactive and mingling of the family and friends. I have just the place for you. I hosted an event there last year and people are still raving about it.

Bottlerocket Wine and Spirit, is a wine specialty shop that serves brides/couples who have an interest in wine or just want to add an element of fun and elegance to their events. For all couples that are interested in purchasing specialty wines, this company has a great selection of organic, biodynamic and environmentally sustainable wines. I love a good eco-find!! A wedding registry of wines and spirits can be opened at the 1year, 5year and 10-year anniversaries or compiled "starter cellars" giving the gift of daily wine pleasure. They will also host a tasting for your guests and nothing says relax like a 2007 Chateau Ollieux Romanis.

Hope you enjoy these the first of hundreds of helpful hints in 2010. Please feel free to subscribe to my column or send me your inquiries. I love getting mail. I’m bridalease (at) gmail (dot) com. I look forward to getting to know you and help during your wedding process.

On Monday, one of the bridal designers I happen to know and love. See you then….

Celebrate 2010 with 'new' designers who will knock your socks off

Photo credit AcQuachiara Bridal

There is something to be said about a ‘newbie’ that not only comes on the scene, but one that makes such a dramatic impact, you’re left with saying “surely they’ve been here for years?” Well I’ve been über lucky this year to be at the launch, or to ‘discover’ some of the winners of my first “New Kids That Rock The Bridal-Block” award.

What makes them amazing? Let’s face it, this industry is tough. In a lot of way, tougher than the fashion industry, because you only have one shot to make a first impression. Impress these folks did. It was the hot, hot, hot bridal designs bringing a bit of their cultural flare to the drawing board, which eventually became the actual creations that caught my eye. It’s fresh, it’s hip, it’s WOW and it’s the newbies who will be on the lips of everyone in 2010. That’s a bridalease prediction and I’m willing to place a bet on.

There are about 20 photos in the slide-show below and the one time I really wish, you could reach in and 'feel' the quality...AMAZING!!

Jorge Perez - photo by Lisa M. Barr

Jorge Perez de la Habana does Cuba proud in the debut of his collection. There is something that is so '1940’s Cuban romance' that will immediately call to you. It’s so caliente, all your groom will need, is a cigar to transport you to this Caribbean island. You can tell every stitch is placed with love and care. I can’t wait to see what his sophomore collection brings.

Minna K - photo by Lisa M. Barr

MinnaK is the next bridal designer you will know on a first name only basis. Clean lines, supple fabric and innovative design. Her cut and color have already captured many in the bridal world this season. MinnaK is truly on her way to bridal stardom.

Photo credit Shanghai Tang

Shanghai Tang for the Bride and Groom (yes a double winner!) for a bit of Asian-chic without flying to Shanghai yourself. Pick your fabric, your design and a few weeks later, a custom one-of-a-kind creation. With options for the entire bridal party, this may be the ultimate one-stop-shop.

Photo credit AcQuachiara Bridal

AcQuachiara Bridal – direct from Italy, their exquisitely made fabrics, rich textures and unique styles were truly a standout for me. There are gowns for everyone – and I do mean everyone. While they have been on the scene in Europe for years, this was their freshman year in the states and I’m sure their sophomore collection will be an immediate hit. The only problem for brides, which one to pick.

I am so thrilled to have been a part of introducing you to these designers. Will they continue to knock your socks off, absolutely. What I really want you to take away from them is, if you truly want unique, one of a kind bridal attire, these are among the designers you should seriously consider.

Congratulations to the winners, I look forward to all the new, new kids on the block for 2010 and tomorrow the best of my ‘Grooming the Groom’. Have to show love for the men in our lives. Until then…

Happy New Years Eve. Be Safe and Have Fun!

Highlight of destinations and locations for your wedding day

Neckers Island - BVI

I’ve been looking through the almost 200 articles I’ve written since March 1, 2009. I’ve gone through and checked them twice. I’ve compiled my list of some of the many amazing vendors and/or locations I wanted to highlight once again. Why, because some of you are at the very beginning phase and others are toward the end. You never know if one of these vendors could be the answer to that last ‘thing’ you need.

I will say right up front that none of them are compensating me in any way to pick them, re-post anything about them. These are truly just a few of my favorites. This also doesn’t mean that I don’t love them all and think that they are all worthy it’s just…well, I wanted to do a round-up.

The Crosby Street Hotel - NYC

There are so many hotels, but I absolutely love the Crosby Street Hotel, NYC because of its British flare and fun. From a proper Hi-Tea, to a martini perfectly shaken, to your own private screening room, this is the place for you. Also, I picked this hotel because of their commitment to the environment as they will soon become GOLD LEED by the US Green Building Council making it one of the first hotels in NY to do so. We love a GREEN hotel that exceeds our comfort expectations right?

The Liberty Hotel - Boston MA

The Shorham Hotel, NYC – Chic, sophisticated and the ability to have your own red-rope makes this a modern space where the only limits would be based on your imagination.If you are looking for a little south beach flavor, the Shoreham is the place for an evening cocktail and where you can enjoy a little bit of Miami in midtown NYC.

The Liberty Hotel, Boston, MA – Gives new meaning to a lifetime commitment. A converted prison in the historic Beacon Hill section of Boston is beautiful. Exposed brick and yes even some of the original jail bars add a unique touch and added fun for your pictures.

Mandarin Oriental Hotel

Gansevoort South Beach Hotel, Miami, Fla – It’s south beach – what more can you say. The food, flavor and flare is hot, hot, hot!

Mandarin Oriental NYC – If you are looking for couture with a view, this is it. The Mandarin Oriental pays attention to every major and minor detail. Your wish is fulfilled almost before you speak it. With cuisine that cutting edge, it is a blend of the something old with something new.

Neckers Island

Neckers Island, BVI - If money is no object this private island can be yours. All I ask is if you do choose Neckers Island I'll happily take care of all the arrangements for you. The staff, food and beauty of the island are only the beginning. Private coves, warm breezes, your own wait-staff. To say that you honeymooned on Sir Richard Bransons island...priceless when it comes to bragging rights.

What locations and destinations are coming up in 2010 – you won’t believe it!! I will say that they are the locations, destinations, venues (and lots more of the things) YOU are asking for. So feel free to email me at bridalease {at} gmail dot com, and ask away. I can hit to my first destination...it's truly a winter wonderland with french flare. Tomorrow I’ll highlight my 2009 wedding planner and event designers and bridesmaids’ gowns. See ya then…

It's begining to taste a lot like Christmas

I can I hardly believe it’s the night before Christmas. Where did this year go and what am I going to do for New Years eve?

Well a few of you asked for different cocktail recipes that you could serve now, through New Years beyond the traditional ones. Here are a few that I absolutely love and will have for friends and family as they pop over. They are easy to make and really pretty to look at. So deck the halls and lift a cup of holiday cheer. Don’t forget, while you’re having fun drink responsibly.

Here’s wishing you lots of goodies and may all your dreams come true this holiday season.

Candy Cane Swirl

Candy Cane Swirl
1 oz. SKYY Infusions Raspberry
3 oz. Red Cranberry Juice
0.5 oz. Grenadine
0.5 oz. Peppermint Schnapps
Lemon Lime Soda
Candy Canes

Rim martini glass with crushed candy cane. Combine SKYY Vodka, Peppermint Schnapps, Cranberry Juice and Grenadine into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into martini glass. Top with Lemon Lime Soda and garnish with small peppermint candy cane.

Mele Kalikimaka Martini

A creative twist on a Bing Crosby classic, the Mele Kalikimaka Martini is ”Hawaii's way to say Merry Christmas to you.” Turning a classic cocktail, contemporary using SKYY Infusions Pineapple and Coconut Cream, the martini adds a personal touch to your typical eggnog and is a surefire way to impress any partygoer. Trust me, this is smooth!!

Mele Kalikimaka Martini
1.5 oz. SKYY Infusions Pineapple
3 oz. Eggnog
Splash of Coconut Cream or Coconut Milk
Nutmeg
Cinnamon

Combine all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into martini glass. Top with sprinkling of nutmeg and cinnamon and garnish with a cinnamon stick.

The Ninth Night

You may think that you’re done celebrating once the candles burn out in the menorah, but The Ninth Night is the great way to conclude your Hanukkah festivities. A refreshing cocktail designed to commemorate a special (and unofficial) ninth night of Hanukkah.

The Ninth Night
2 oz. SKYY Infusions Citrus
1 oz. Triple Sec
1 oz. White Cranberry Juice
Lemon Lime Soda
Lime Juice

Combine SKYY Infusions Citrus, Triple Sec and Cranberry Juice into a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into tall rocks glass with fresh ice. Top with soda and lots of fresh lime juice. Garnish with blue ribbon or pipe cleaner around the glass.

Cuppa Good Cheer

Whether you anticipate a “White Christmas” or a California “Endless Summer,” we all snuggle up with loved ones and a cup of warm hot cocoa at least once during the holiday season.

Cuppa Good Cheer
1.5 oz. SKYY Infusions Cherry
0.5 White Creme de Cacao
4 oz. Extra Hot Chocolate
1 oz. Half and Half
Whipped Cream
Red Sprinkles
Maraschino Cherry

Combine all ingredients into a holiday mug and top with whipped cream, red sprinkles and a Maraschino Cherry.

Infuse passion into the New Year with a flashy cocktail featuring SKYY Infusions Passion Fruit, fresh juice and raspberries. The New Year’s Sparkler is an easy way to spice up your champagne flute this New Year’s Eve.

New Year’s Sparkler
1 oz. SKYY Infusions Passion Fruit
1.5 oz. Pomegranate Juice
3.5 oz. Champagne
5-6 Raspberries

Combine SKYY Infusions Raspberry and cranberry juice in a chilled champagne flute and top with champagne. Garnish with raspberry tree.*

*Slide 5-6 raspberries onto long skewer and place vertically in champagne glass.

This is one of my favorite drinks. I greet my guests in from the cold, winter weather with a traditional cup of Holiday Glögg, a Scandinavian take on mulled wine. Made in large batches and easily reheated time and time again, this recipe is a great one to have in your back pocket for any surprise guests.

Holiday Glögg
12 oz. SKYY Vodka
1 Bottle 750 ml of Dry Red Wine
1.5 tbsp. Mulling Spice
1 tsp. Fresh Orange Zest
2 tbsp. Sugar
2 tbsp. Blanched Almonds
4 tbsp. Raisins

Wrap Mulling Spice in cheesecloth. In a large saucepan, combine the Wine, SKYY Vodka, cheesecloth with Mulling Spice, Orange Zest and Sugar. Allow to very lightly simmer over medium heat for at least 30 minutes (do not boil). Discard the mulling spices. Drop a few raisins and almonds at the bottom of each mug and top with the hot liquid.

I'm hope you enjoy this holidays drink selection. I can't wait to share more with you in 2010.

Happy Holidays One And All

Love your bridal fairy godmother

The party starts with Marc Wilson Design

Marc Wilson of Marc Wilson Design

There are certain things that make every bride happy on her wedding day: Her groom arriving on time and sober, her perfect dress and of course, her reception looking better than she imagined. The first two…pretty easy, but the third you are trust that someone will make your vision, your wedding dream a reality. Of course you know Collin, Preston but do you know Marc? If you don't, you should.

Marc Wilson of Marc Wilson Design combines light, sophistication, whimsy and dramatic lighting to create breathtaking locations and spaces for your wedding. There are samples of his attention to detail and style in the slideshow, but they don't do him justice. He is truly just that good.

I caught up with Marc at his studio for a few moments to discuss the upcoming bridal season. Marc, tell me about the trends you see happening this year?

"If you think about home décor trends over the last few years, all those colors the pantone forecast colors have made their way from the pages of magazine and those charts through the fashion industry and now more and more in the event design industry. So I pay attention to those, but I also work with the bride to make sure on her wedding day she isn’t disappointed.

This season the colors I’ve seen include honey gold/yellow, warm olive, burnt sienna, Rapture Rose, American beauty. These are some really beautiful colors and I have created great combinations for the bride that wants to be a little more daring and get away from the very traditional ivory linens. For a winter wedding why not go with deep Amethyst and Gun Metal (silver)? It would add unexpected richness and warmth to the reception. I often recommend that they go bold and make a statement at their reception. For the 2010 spring season, the more popular colors include Tomato Puree, Fusion Coral, Violet, Tuscany, Pink Champagne, Dried Herb, Aurora and Amparo Blue to name a few. However, Pantone 15-5519 Turquoise was just named "the color of the year". I'm looking forward to using it in our upcoming designs and seeing where else it pops up throughout the year".

What should a couple do before they meet with you? How should they prepare? "Well, just come with some ideas of what you’re thinking of. If would be helpful if you have an idea of where you’re going to have the reception – this way I have an idea of the size of the venue. I know that brides go through all the magazines, so come in with clips of colors you like, pictures of locations you like. Know your budget. We can work together to build the best of these things to create a space that is unique and special".

Marc also has a unique and innovative line called “Wedding in a Box by MWD”. This combines elegance and affordability for the discerning bride. Here the bride can choose from seasonal arrangements and craft a package that meets their style and budget.

“We have every type of bride and especially in this economy, we realize that couple are watching their budgets, but still want the glamour. That’s why I came up with Weddings in a Box. I don’t think any couple should have anything less than the very best they can afford".

Marc is a gifted and talented designer whose subtle elegance, sensuous style and ability to create magic in subtle accents is why he is in demand. Give Marc a call and schedule your appointment to discuss your dream day. Marc is on facebook so friend him for updates or give him a tweet.

Marc WIlson Design and Production - 51-02 21st Street, 7th Floor
Long Island City, NY, 11101 - (212) 749-2266