Green Goodness

Hello Folks!

I had started getting used to our early spring here in Knoxville, but it seems to have slipped away with chances of snow tonight! However, I am not going to let it get me down and it certainly won't interrupt my visions of spring.

I put together this inspiration board that includes some of my most favorite wedding details in an appropriate color for March...GREEN. Which happens to also be my favorite color:) I hope you enjoy this fabric flower, signature drink, parasol, smitten stick inspiration as much as I do... Warmer days will be here to stay before we know it. In the meanwhile, dream of those beautiful spring afternoons and the wonderful parties you can throw when they get here!

Happy Planning~Shanna

Boutonniere Alternatives

Hey Everybody~

While working with some new couples this year, I had a request from one of the grooms...do I have to wear a flower on my lapel? And the answer of course was NO! There are so many options out there for guys to bring in a little of their own personality and taste into the mix, without having to wear a traditional wedding flower to match the rest of the wedding party. Here are some unique ideas that can create interest on the guy's suits. I hope these ideas inspire some looks of your own, if your man isn't into the traditional flower.

Happy Planning~

Shanna

Valentine's Day: Homemade From The Heart

Hey Everybody!
As Valentine's Day quickly approaches, we all scramble to find that "perfect" gift. Whether you have a big budget or no budget at all, the best gifts are ALWAYS those that come from the heart. And, what better way to achieve a thoughtful gift then by making it yourself? From handmade cards to his or her favorite sweets and treats~just think of what your honey loves best and give it a try. Even if you flub it up, the chances are-all they really want is quality time with you:) Happy Valentine's Day!

Much Love & Happy Planning~
Shanna


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Down on the Farm

Hello Everybody~
Because I am from East TN and have lived here my entire life, I sometimes forget the beauty of my natural surroundings. So, when planning parties and weddings, it's sometimes a good thing for me to sit back and remember that we are blessed with such beautiful landscapes including mountains, lakes and many local farms. And, why not take advantage of natures own backdrop when planning an event?

There are some beautiful, local venues that have developed over the past few years that include farmland and beautiful barns. There are also hundreds, maybe even thousands of privately owned family farms that showcase just how gorgeous our Tennessee countryside is year-round. If you are fortunate enough to have a family farm, please consider it for your next special event. Taking advantage of the space that you already have can save you so much time and money! And, creating a unique and intimate setting is easier than you think. Here is an inspiration board that I made with a few wedding/party ideas that I hope you can use for your next shindig down on the farm. It only takes some DIY details made with love and consideration, and you can create an atmosphere that your guests will never forget!

Happy Planning~
Shanna

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Succulent Weddings

Hello Everyone~
I have wanted to do this blog post for awhile...but the holidays came, then the New Year, and then a bridal show, etc-etc. It is finally here...SUCCULENTS!!! I love these little guys, especially because my husband's Grandma loves them too. She gives them away as gifts and what wonderful gifts they make!

I have found while searching for wedding design inspirations that include succulents, they are usually associated with Eco-friendly and/or vintage themed weddings. But, as I dug a little deeper, I found that you can also glam up these awesomely luscious plants by pairing them with elegant feathers, sleek cake designs, classic wine glasses and stylish silver vases. Check out this inspiration board that I put together that showcases the versatility of these plants. Don't forget-succulents are usually grown inside, so they are pretty accessible year round! When planning your next event, I hope you can include some of these beauties into your celebration.

Happy Planning~
Shanna


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Beauty Tips for Fighting the Winter Blues

Hello People!
I don't know about yall, but my skin this winter is so dry and flaky. I moisturize my face OF COURSE, and I have resorted to Palmer's Cocoa Butter Oil for my body. But, still I am soooo dehydrated. I was searching for beauty products and tips to help me fight this wintery problem and found this link from Hoda and Kathy Lee's program...Bobbie's Beauty Bag. Bobbie offers some really helpful tips about how to get a little pick-me-up during the winter months and some surprising things you should avoid. I hope this info helps you as much as it has me. Stay warm out there!
Happy Planning~
Shanna

New Year Humor...

Hello Everybody!
I don't know about yall, but I am sure glad the holidays are OVER! Don't get me wrong, I enjoy them to the fullest when they are here, but getting back to my normal routine is so refreshing, as the next thing I look forward to are the beautiful blooms of SPRING!!!!!!!!!!!! It will be here before we know it:)

So, with all that being said, I was thinking about making a really serious new year's resolution list to help me stay focused and set goals, etc. I was gonna post it on my blog and share my insight, etc, etc. I really thought about it and thought about it and then I had an epiphany. The most important resolution that I could come up with was to KEEP MY SENSE OF HUMOR! I have more serious goals and aspirations for 2011, but the way I see it, no matter if I do achieve all I set out to achieve, or I don't...If I am met with the greatest gifts that life has to offer or some of the biggest disappointments...If I shoot for the moon and get there or fall flat on my face...I vow that no matter what, I must find the joy and opportunity in ALL situations, continually count my MANY MANY blessings, and make someone else smile. Life is not going to be perfect, so you might as well learn to laugh at yourself:)~

Happy New Year Peeps & May All Your Dreams Come True in 2011!
Happy Planning~
Shanna

Here's a little humor to start you off with from my favorite spot...ETSY of course.