Elopements... The small way to celebrate your big day!

Have you been through the wringer with Covid-19 wedding planning? Have you organized, re-scheduled, or postponed your day only to find out the venue you have selected has changed its capacity limits to fit current safety guidelines? As seriously as we have taken this pandemic I know that the biggest day of your life being delayed and major wrenches being thrown into your day can be very frustrating. That is why this small trend might have the potential to take the stress off your big day.

What’s the Big deal with a Tiny Wedding?

Elopements were once a popular trend of the past often times pertaining to only the couple and the officiant, the updated trend has seen quite a bit more popularity recently due to the global pandemic, ever-changing restrictions around large gatherings, safety, and budgetary constraints as well have helped make this a fad that is here to stay. All of these factors have caused micro weddings or larger elopements with up to 20 or fewer guests to be more in demand. Another trend we are loving is a micro ceremony and larger reception to follow at a later date when it is safer to host larger gatherings.

Fewer Guests = Fewer Expenses

While the current state of the world has forced us to host smaller gatherings currently we think smaller weddings are here to stay because they are typically 50-75% less expensive overall than a regular-sized 150+ person wedding. On average each guest costs anywhere from $75-150 per person when food, seating, and bar costs are considered. This means that fewer guests can really help you cut down on the cost of your wedding budget.

Small and Intimate:

With fewer guests to entertain the likelihood that you can actually spend time with each person there and the fact they are probably very close family and friends makes this the perfect way to keep the focus on you all and not on anything else. The intimate gathering is also perfect for bonding with those that are in your inner circle and making sure to thank each person and give them the most lavish expereice possible because your overall expenses will be significantly cut this can mean higher quality catering, extra over the top decor and even more upgraded bar or floral packages. This can also make for an overall better guest experience where everyone truly feels they are a significant part of your day.

Staying Safe:

With the smaller the guest count especially in today’s times there is less risk associated with people getting sick or spreading the virus due to it being easier to distance high risk individuals, more control over monitoring the crowd and less chance that the event will get canceled or that you will be forced to cut your guest count down dramatically. These are all factors that can really help take any extra stress off your plate and can speed up the wedding planning process. In the event your elopemnt does get canceled you are able to move things around much easier with 20 guests as opposed to 200 guests. That makes an elopment or “micro wedding” a little more appealing to many at this time.

While we know this style of wedding isn’t for everyone, we have seen so many positive aspects come out of mini weddings. Here at Memory Lane Events, we want to celebrate you however you choose to do that. While we take the pandemic and safety precations very seriously we also know how important your wedding day is and we are honored to help bring all of your big plans together whether that be a large or small wedding. This trend is something we hope will outlast the pandemic for those who love more intimate gatherings but we can’t wait to be a part of your special day in any capacity we can. From day-of coordination to full-service planning we are here to take the stress out of “ I Do”.

Couple: AG & Juliana ( Real Memory Lane Events Couple)

Venue- The Chapel at High Point Farm

Photography- Daniel Tomlinson

Florals- Nashville Flower Market School of Floral Design

Bridesmaid Dresses for Everybody and Every Body Type

Your wedding day, a time to celebrate your love with those closest to you. Family, friends, and weird neighbors that overheard too much of the planning details to not be invited will all be in attendance. Because of that, you want everyone in your bridal party, and especially you, looking the very best possible. However, in most friend groups, and those that are closest to you, not everyone looks the same or dresses in the same style. We all know that the bride is to look the best, but as someone who cares about their friends and those closest to them, it is our desire for everyone to look their very best. Because of that, it is important for each bridesmaid to wear and style a look that is the very best for their body type. Every body is a bridesmaid body!!

One of the top trends for catering to everyone's needs, while still staying with theme, are monochromatic dresses. Color scheme is everything in a wedding and all of your ladies looking amazing in that color scheme is so important. This also caters to the needs of all the lovely ladies in your life, embracing skin all tones and being conscious of letting each woman find the tone that matches their skin!

Another great way to cater to the needs of your bridesmaids, while staying on your theme is choosing a dress style that looks good on all body types. An A-line shape and/or a V-shaped neckline are classic pieces that accentuate every curve and shape. The A-line shaped dresses highlights the waists and then gradually widens which flatters every curve and shape. The V shaped neckline lengthens the neck and draws the attention to the face. Pleated dresses are also a great option as they cover any stomach insecurity and provide a fashionable option.

Our final bridesmaid dress option would be giving your girls a style or theme to stick with and giving them the option to find the dress that matches their body as well. This gives each woman the opportunity to express their individuality and own style while staying within the theme of your wedding and keeping an organized front. They also make for great photos!!

Story By: Guest Writer -Jessica Chancey

Photography By: Kendall Parsons Photography

Venue: Owen Farms

Coordination: Memory Lane Events LLC

Bridesmaid Dresses: Azazie

Julia + Taylor :A Moody Fall Wedding Dream Come True

When Julia first contacted me, I was excited about the opportunity to help plan and design a wedding that would firmly land a little outside the box. It was certainly a departure from the typical color scheme and style. She wanted a feel that whimsically conjured an amalgam of  Harry Potter and Fleetwood Mac with all the colors and decor that Fall had to offer. That’s when my imagination, mixed with Julia’s vision and Caprice Palmer’s impeccable style at the Enchanted Florist culminated in the creation of a magical boho Fall aesthetic.

Capturing the Look:

To be able to bring these dark and moody Fall vibes together we coordinated with Caprice of Enchanted florist to make sure all of the rich colors of Fall along with her talent with the floral design would bring out the most beautiful elements while keeping the color scheme and dark tones at the forefront. From there we were able to include(Tom Covington)  DJ Who to help with lighting and added ambiance. The couple has excellent taste so their attire was very high fashion. From the bride’s dress to the groom’s tie clip, all of the details came together perfectly to capture the overall gothic bohemian essence. 

Love at First Sight:

The couple elected to have a first look that always helps to settle the nerves and makes for stunning photos. Although the weather ruined our original plans to have the ceremony outside we were able, with the help of the Enchanted floral team going above and beyond, to move the ceremony indoors.  We represented the bride’s Native American heritage with a rustic teepee arch and feathers mixed with large pumpkins and blush, burnt orange florals, and greenery.  It was difficult for the couple to let go of the original plan of having the wedding at the large oak tree, but after they saw the new setting they ended up being extremely happy with it. The first look shows just how in love and happy they were to see each other.  

Game of Thrones:

When Julia and her mother met with me at the Southern Event Rentals warehouse we were able to walk through and see a selection of stunning rentals from the velvet napkins to the white cathedral chairs and all of the little touches in between. Julia and I were able to use all of the rentals as inspiration to help further capture a royal Gothic vibe while presenting elegance mixed with a bit of rocker chic glam.

It’s All In The Details:

The head table with the rich colors of the florals, stunning gold goblets, fox napkin rings to match Taylors tie clip, and the lighting all came together to create the vision we had all worked so hard to plan. The mix of fruit and long black pillar candles with garlands of greenery and Jackson vine intertwined in the chandeliers gave the overall 1800’s barn at Southall Meadows the elegant and dramatic touches Julia and I had wanted. The end result would have made Daenerys Targaryen happy. 

Couple Style Goals:

Julia and Taylor have impeccable taste. From the wedding bands, they selected, to their attire, all the way to his watch and her feathered headdress everything came together to tell a story. The look was that of a styled shoot as opposed to that of an actual wedding. Seeing the love they shared and how they flawlessly went from striking a serious pose to laughing and enjoying one another’s presence made me feel fortunate to be part of this very special day. 

Check out their stunning looks below. For style inspiration and ideas on how to make your wedding uniquely yours reach out today for a complimentary style consultation. 

Photography Frame Visuals

Coordination and Design: Memory Lane Events

Venue: Southall Meadows

Floral: Enchanted Florist

Hair: Curl Coven

Makeup: Jessie Horn

Catering: Loveless Catering

Lighting & MCing- DJ Who

Band: Dynamo

Rentals: Southern Event Party Rentals

Cake: The Puffy Muffin

Engagement Photography- Before the I Do's & (Don't's)

We know you have seen them scrolling through Instagram before bed another beautiful engagement shoot. Some are candid and captured at the moment and some are planned in advance. Oftentimes these photos are the way couples choose to break the news to their closest friends and family and after the initial excitement for the upcoming wedding passes these photos become keepsakes to frame and remissness on through the years.So how do you go from booking your photographer to capturing the perfect amount of love and realness mixed with a polished look at the two of you in a frame able photo to keep for years to come? Well, you are in luck because that is where top-rated photographer Leah Moyers comes into play with some sage advice to help you get the absolute best photos engagement possible.

Here are just a few simple behind-the-scenes tips and tricks from Leah, an experienced photographer that happened to capture some lovely photos of one of my Memory Lane Events couples Lauren & Sean this weekend in Gatlinburg Tennessee.

Get Comfortable- It might sound too simple to be true but one of the first things you can do to prepare for your engagement shoot is to get comfortable with your photographer. Going into the shoot after meeting up for coffee or even a zoom call just to talk through the shoot and how it will go will make you develop more trust with your chosen photographer on the day of the shoot. When you meet for the shoot it’s also good to remember to bring a change of shoes if you are wearing heels and a sweater to keep warm in between shots if the weather is cool or light layers depending on the time of year. One accessory you should leave in the car however is a phone. Leah says they end up in your pockets and in all of the photos typically if not and don’t always look the most flattering.

Leah Moyers Photography

Dress to impress- This brings us to our next piece of advice when preparing what to wear for your shoot. Every couple is different and this does not exclude fashion choices. Leah says the most important thing you can wear is something you feel comfortable in and your absolute best in. If you tend to be a more casual person you should opt for nice jeans and a cute top. If you love to dress up maybe try a sundress and heels you can easily walk with ( bring some flip flops to wear in between shots). Leah says whatever you decide to wear make sure it’s close to what you typically wear for a night out or date night that way you look and feel relaxed in your photos. Sometimes layering with a sweater or jacket is nice to switch up the look a bit in between shots. Often times scheduling your hair and makeup trial for the same day as your shoot will help you knock out two birds with one stone and have a more polished look for those photos.

Invite Only- Who should come to the shoot will really depend again on your comfort level. Leah suggests keeping the guest list just for you and your fiance so that you get a moment to connect with your photographer before the big day. If you do end up bringing someone to the shoot make sure it is someone that will not give you a hard time or take any of the focus off of you all. Often times with these types of photos the poses and looks can get more intimate than a typical photoshoot so make sure you feel secure with whoever might be watching you shoot. Leah also suggests furry friends can help to break up the nerves and capture joy and spontaneity in the photos.

Practice Makes Perfect- Remember these shoots are a great way to get comfortable being photographed by your photographer so that when your big day comes you feel less stiff and awkward because you already have a good idea of how it will go. You get to see which poses and expressions work and which you want to fine-tune before the big day and you come away with some great photos to use for your save the dates, engagement announcements or even to hang in your home. Whether you opt to do a full-on shoot or just a mini session to capture a few pictures the pressure that is taken off of you on the big deal with all of the uncertainty is certainly worth the investment.

Leah Moyers Photography

Location, Location, Location: I am sure you have heard the common real estate saying that location is everything. Well, this rings true in choosing the perfect place to take your engagement photos as well. Use your photographer’s knowledge on the best lighting and time of day or night for the session. But listen to your partner and your own comfort level with crowds when selecting where to shoot. For example, if you are very shy and not totally comfortable being photographed maybe opt for a less crowded area like a trail for a hike or even the privacy of your own home. If you are used to taking photos together and want to share your love with the world may be a park or local tourist attraction is a better fit. Whatever the case share this with your photographer and they can help recommend a spot.

Leah Moyers Photography

By following this simple and straightforward advice and listening to each other I know you will come away with photos you can enjoy looking back on for years to come. Remember to stay true to yourself and your partner and keep your photographer in the loop with any worries or concerns. Sometimes a simple conversation prior to the shoot is all you need to settle those nerves and come away with picture-perfect images to last a lifetime.

If you are looking for an excellent photographer in the Smokey Mountains reach out to Leah Moyers at hellolove@leahmoyers.com

If you are interested in booking Memory Lane Events for destination wedding planning packages reach out to us at memorylane411@gmail.com

Micro-Weddings The Perfect Fit for Any Couple Deciding Between A Traditional Wedding or Eloping

If you’ve been keeping up with current trends, you may have seen a rise in popularity of the “micro-wedding”. If this is your introduction to the idea, you may be thinking, “Okay. That sounds like a cute term, but what is it?” A micro-wedding is a down-sizing of your typical wedding and consists of up to 40 guests! It is the perfect solution for couples stuck between the idea of a traditional wedding and the desire to elope, but there are also many other benefits. Here are our top four reasons to have a micro- wedding, and how we can help you!

A Micro-Wedding Reduces the Stress of Hosting!

We’ve all heard “success is 90% planning, 10% execution.” A micro-wedding can ease the burden on both fronts. Coordination and planning is significantly easier with a smaller guest list. Sending out save the dates, invitations, and keeping track of RSVPs with only 40 guests makes everything much more manageable. Having fewer guests also means that you can be more mindful of food sensitivities when coordinating with a caterer and ensure that everyone can partake in your big day. 40 guests may sound like a small number and induce some anxiety when thinking about narrowing the guest list. Every couple wants to feel celebrated on their big day, and traditionally we may think about this happening with 100-200 guests. However, as couples have been discovering recently, a smaller quantity of guests in no way means a lower quality of the overall experience. Being intentional with your guest list and reducing the number of guests ensures that you’ll have more time with each of them. You won’t have to rush through your photo sessions or reception line; you will have quality time with each individual! Everyone wants to dance with the bride and groom- with a micro-wedding they will definitely get the chance.

Micro-Weddings Can be More Budget Friendly!

Hosting this type of event can allow you to splurge or save more money according to what you want! You are definitely saving money by having a smaller guest list; this also allows you to choose a smaller venue, and save on decor. These are all great options for couples who are looking to tuck some money away for a few extra days on their honeymoon or to save for their new life as a married couple! The beauty of the extra money is that it could also be used to splurge. If you’re saving on the number of guests, maybe you have enough now to pay for that band you really wanted or those custom embossed invitations. Or you have enough to invest in that floral wall backdrop for all your guest’s Instagram posts! Using a coordinator for your planning can help your budget as well. Your time is valuable! In some cases when planning a wedding, planning has to become the couple’s number one priority and hobby. By hiring a coordinator, you are allowing the possibility of time to pursue your other interests and passions. For example, our joint package with Briar Rose Hill can offer you everything from coordination to venue in our all-inclusive package. It is incredibly affordable and includes flowers, cake, catering, and reliable vendor recommendations for everything else. Save yourself valuable time (and money) by utilizing affordable options.

Micro-Weddings are More Environmentally Friendly

Why not save the world a little bit on your big day? Micro-weddings hosted in a smaller venue will require less power for lighting, heating and cooling, and water! You will be saving paper when sending out Save-the-Dates and invitations. Because you are inviting a smaller number of guests, more of them may be from similar circles and willing to ride-share or carpool to your event together. In this scenario, you’re helping the environment and your guests by saving them gas money.  We mentioned the menu earlier when considering simplified coordination, but with a micro- wedding you can also reduce the possibility of food wastes. Think back to a wedding you’ve attended- have you ever seen the Mother of the Bride carrying half of the leftover cake to her car? I know I have. And then around three months later, she still has pieces in her freezer. A smaller wedding allows you (and your caterer) to be more accurate in predicting how much food is needed. This can substantially reduce the amount of food waste! Saving the environment- and your family’s freezer space.

Silver Linings of Today’s Times

Last but not least, the topic on everyone’s minds. It’s no secret that COVID-19 has changed the way we live- and celebrate. A smaller gathering will provide you more peace of mind and communicating and encouraging clear safety precautions will be easier with a micro-wedding. With a smaller number of guests, distancing on the day-of will also be less complicated! A micro-wedding is a great way to promote the safety of your guests while still having a beautiful and meaningful wedding.  If you want to have a micro-wedding but are unsure about how to narrow down your guest list, this year has given you a silver lining. People of all ages are more familiar with streaming and video conference services than ever before. This provides a safe option for those who want to be part of your big day but are unable to make it in-person. For more information on hosting a wedding, check out our recent post “Wedding Planning in a Pandemic - Postponement Tips, Safety Measures and Support”.

We would love to help you coordinate your dream wedding. If you’re interested in a micro- wedding of your own, consider our partnership package with Briar Rose Hill! Briar Rose Hill is the perfect backdrop for your big day, with elegant grounds and a gorgeous historic home. Paired with our coordination, assistance in catering, decor, and flowers, this could be the perfect opportunity to create the micro-wedding of your dreams.

Blog Written By: Erin Eversole

Photography By: Kendall Parson’s

Couple: Laurie & Tanner ( A future Memory Lane Events Couple)

Wedding Planning in a Pandemic - Postponement Tips, Safety Measures and Support

So this year is not quite what anyone was planning for. With a global pandemic, gathering and travel restrictions and new terms like “ quarantine”, “Social Distance” and trying to remain positive in the midst of all of the uncertainty can seem impossible at times. With so many weddings being postponed, canceled or TBD how do you even begin to plan in a pandemic one of the biggest days of your life? The answer might surprise you coming from someone who makes a career of planning, the answer is, I am not sure. Now hold on I am not saying that I don’t have a few ideas and ways to problem solve and work around this. What I am saying is though that there are no wrong answers when it comes to how to move forward. You are in charge of your own destiny even when it feels like the majority of everything in today’s world isn’t you still get to be in the driver’s seat and call the shots with what makes you and your fiance comfortable. The following are a few tips and tricks to help you navigate this uncharted territory.

Angel Perdue Photography

1. You Still Call The Shots:

First and foremost though take a deep breath, pour yourself a glass of wine, and know that I am sending you the biggest virtual hug. This year has hit us all like a ton of bricks. From engaged couples to wedding vendors, guests, and the world as a whole. I am in no means playing down the seriousness of Covid-19 or the importance of staying safe and keeping others safe as well. But what I want you to know as a bride or groom to be is that your wedding day is still YOURS. No matter what the media says, the state mandates your guests or even your family. This day is a sacred special day that is set aside for you and your partner. It is important that whatever you decide to do about your wedding plans that they are 100% what you both want and that you are not allowing anyone else to force you into a decision that makes you ultimately regret the plan in place or how the day went. When I say this I totally know that for many of you the original plans will change, guest size, the way your day in your head was supposed to go might look different. But at the end of the day, it is important to remember that marrying your best friend is what this day is all about. So together let’s create a plan B, C, D whatever makes you comfortable and make it happen!

The Birch Cottage

2. Safety First:

When news broke about the virus I knew that weddings especially would get hit very hard. As a wedding planner and empath keeping my guests and couple happy and safe have never been more on my mind. Luckily several other amazing vendors have put a lot of thought and careful consideration into the details that matter most for safety and stopping the spread of the virus if you do decide to keep your wedding plans intact. One new trend that I love is the Quest Event Party Rentals new external safety measures which can be linked here. Another amazing resource for you when moving forward with your plans is setting up temperature checks, sign-ins, and guest mapping to have an idea of who all was at the event to keep everyone informed if anyone is exposed. Seating charts and setting up tables 6 feet apart are all precautions that are being implemented by our company as well as others.

The Budget Savy Bride

3. Virtual Reality:

In this strange time we are all just trying to survive, we have resorted to virtual EVERYTHING! Virtual school, virtual meetings and even virtual happy hours. The latest trend has now shifted to virtual weddings for any guest who cannot or does not feel safe attending the wedding in person. This can be broadcast live in so many different ways. There are lots of videography companies adding this to there menu. Zoom has taken over the world and even when it comes to wedding planning. Meeting up with your vendors virtually not only limits exposure to possible COVID-19 germs. It also can save gas, time and make it easier for everyone involved to carve out time no matter the distance. Another amazing option for wedding showers or bachlorette parties are virtual cocktail making courses that can allow all your girls to meet up across the globe to teach everyone to make there favorite mixed drink. With necessity being the mother of invention the options are limitless when it comes to virtual planning. Even Memory Lane Events offers full scale virtual planning.

Frozen In Time Photography

4. Making the Call:

A big shift with so many government mandates and regulations around large gatherings it has started to really shape the wedding industry. Many of the mandates have happened quickly with little warning and the “phases to reopen” are hard to plan around. This can make postponing the wedding a good option for many. As a wedding planner facing these difficult decisions I have had a few postponements already and my advice for couples faced with this decision I offer you this piece of advise. Do what you know will make you the happiest in the long run. There are positives and negatives to postponing and options for something in the middle as well. I think in that same accord putting together a pro and con’s list is very helpful to help you and your partner decide. Things to think about before making the decision is touching base with your vendors to see if your deposit is transferable to a different day. Reaching out to bridal party and close family to see if the same day might work. Another important factor is realistically can you wait to be married to your fiance. Listing the three most important aspects of your wedding day will help you see what might make the most sense for you. Another great option is having a very intimate ceremony and then opening the reception up to a larger guest count in the future when it is safer for everyone. But most importantly what is best for the both of you.

Frozen In Time Photography

While these times can be incredibly challenging for wedding planning, or even just everyday life try to remember that this is only temporary. The wedding as amazing as that day will be is only the beginning of your story as a married couple. You get to spend the rest of your lives together and of course your wedding will be amazing, but so will your marriage. Do your best not to lose sight of the end goal of spending your life with your “quarantine partner” which in and of itself overpowers any tough situations the planning process throws your way.

If you find yourself needing more in depth tips or planning recommendations please send me a message. Lets grab a glass of wine ( virtually) and take some stress off your plate.

5 Secrets No One Tells You About Planning Your Wedding

With your wedding day quickly approaching I bet you are a bit overwhelmed and stressed out. If you are anything like I was when it was my turn to get married you are thinking to yourself, “ Why did no one ever tell me this was a thing”. Whatever the case may be these five inside secrets helped me survive the wedding planning process and I have a feeling they just might do the trick for you too. Not to brag on my fairy god mother status but as a planner turned bride turned wife I know a thing or two about wedding planning and I am here to help you become a pro yourself!

Beware of The Pintrest Blues:

When it became my time to finally get married I was delighted. I was finally going to marry the man of my dreams and all of my Pinterest dreams were finally going to magically come to life… or so I thought. Looking back on that phase in my life I can laugh it off now but at the moment finding out my dream dress was the full price of my wedding budget was a major wakeup call. That’s when I discovered a little thing called the Pinterest blues. Now don’t get me wrong I LOVE Pinterest as a planner and in my personal life, I use it almost every day to pin ideas and recipes, I honestly do not know where I would be without it. You just have to know the right way to use it when planning a wedding. Which leads us to our first secret. Pinterest is a double-edged sword. Sure it’s amazing as a tool to share with vendors and planners. It communicates ideas in a single photo and keeps everyone in the loop.

BUT… beware of staged photos, styled shoots and the idea that everything at your wedding including yourself will look exactly like it does on Pinterest. I once had this realization with my hair color. You see there is this pesky thing called budgets and they sometimes get in the way of the “perfect” shade of blonde, wedding dress or floral decor. This does not mean however with the proper use of Pinterest and an open mind that your wedding will be any less special or memorable it just means that sometimes the fairytale wedding looks a little less staged and a little more authentic which in my humble opinion will mean way more in the long run. This means using your inspiration boards as just that inspiration. Be upfront and honest with your vendors and yourself and for the love of all that is holy do not get discouraged that your wedding will be anything less than amazing.

Things are always more expensive than you thought they would be:

I know you are probably already thinking of yourself, it’s pretty obvious that weddings are expensive. Even I who fancied myself to be very well versed in the magical world of weddings was in a bit of sticker shock when it came to my time to be a bride. I always knew about the price of items for my clients but I never knew the reality of how expensive until it came time to find my venue, book my florist or pay for alterations. As a vendor myself I certainly know and do not discredit any of the amazing, extremely hard-working vendors and how difficult their jobs can be. But having gone through the experience on the other foot I can 100% say that educating yourself of the average cost of vendors and venues in your area as well as setting a very realistic budget for yourself is one of the very best things you can do for yourself.

Going about this process can be tedious to do on your own and takes many hours and oftentimes leads to frustration. I always highly recommend using a planner for this very reason. Even if you do not choose to work with a planner and are more of a DIY bride at least having someone you can lean on for support such as a fellow bride or even a well informed Facebook group of like-minded couples and vendors can help out tremendously. Often times we think that doing things ourselves saves us money but every great planner has budget-saving tricks and resources that help stay on budget and less stressed which at the end of the day can be priceless. One tip, for instance, I tell all of my clients is write down the top three areas of importance to you for your wedding day when you are budgeting. Once you have done this use free tools such as wedding wires budget planning tool to map out how much you are looking to spend on each item. shop for pricing among vendors and give yourself a cushion for unforeseen expenses ( things always come up) This will allow you to focus on your non-negotiables and walk away in control and informed to help lead you through the rest of the planning process.

This is YOUR Day, keep it that way:

More often than not I see many of my clients struggle with balancing keeping their guests and family happy during the planning process. It’s easy to want to make sure that your wedding day goes smoothly and that includes keeping everyone in attendance happy. Like any gracious host, you want your big day to filled with great joy and fun for everyone. But when the demands of others outweigh your happiness and create more stress than the bliss that is when you know it is time to draw the line before one foot walks down that aisle. That means staying true to who you are and keeping focused on what is most important that your partner and yourself are happy.

More times than not weddings can sadly bring out the worst in people. The stress and expectations alone can be very difficult for even the most strong-willed person to manage. But having a buffer like a friend to handle any R.S.V.P’s, bridesmaids to help swoop in and rescue you from sometimes difficult conversations or even setting a few minutes in your timeline on your wedding day to have to yourself or with your spouse can mean a world of difference. Something I really wish someone would have told me is the number of unacceptable demands and behavior you allow during your wedding can often times correlate to the amount you will be expected to tolerate in your marriage. This is where healthy boundaries, open dialogue with your partner and finding a great person to vent to can be super important. Remember why you chose to get married in the first place and try to find a respectful but assertive way to protect that.

Happily Ever After Takes Work :

We have all seen the fairytale endings from our first Disney movie, to the end of our favorite love movies. We know that at the end of our I do’s we will have married the person whom all of childhood daydreams centered around. While that is beautiful and a lovely thing to work towards it’s also a little dangerous to just assume that everything will magically fall into place and stay perfect forever. While my relationship with my husband in my eyes has been the greatest love story ever told even I know it has taken a great amount of work, sacrifice, and patience to get here. We are probably all aware of this but at times social media ( I am getting there) or even movies make it hard not to compare ourselves to the idea of the perfect marriage, wedding or lifestyle.

But one of the most important secrets I will share here is the importance of self-care and self-awareness you need to make sure that your I do’s are not followed by many I don’ts. One thing I learned the hard way is that running yourself into the ground with stress, unrealistic expectations of your body or even attitude during wedding planning process is extremely damaging not only to yourself but to your relationship. The importance of keeping your mind and spirit healthy is just as vital as the perfect centerpiece or wedding dress. One of the best pieces of advice I ever got was from my Mother at my wedding shower and it was to always date my husband even we we are old and gray. We always put aside a few nights a month for a special date night. Even if it is just a home-cooked meal and Netflix it means so much to take that time for us. But the reality is no one ever tells you to slow down, take time for yourself and push pause on the obsessing, yes even the wedding planning and give yourself a true break. As a bride this literally saved me and as a wife, it is even more important. You have to just like in an airplane put your own oxygen mask on first. Learn to say I love you to yourself before ever saying yes to anyone else. This is something I still struggle with every day but as Lizzo would say “ I know that I am a queen” so treat yourself as such and I promise it will make the journey to the aisle that much easier.

Know the Difference between Instagram VS Reality:

in a world of oversharing and instant gratification, it is easy to get swept up in a social media frenzy of likes and a never-ending feed of filtered photos. This is so common in our everyday life that it can lead to unhealthy rabbit holes of comparison and self-doubt. With your wedding often times being one of the most important days in your life it is easy to use this time to want to try and achieve the dream photos or gain the most likes from your wedding photos. It’s sometimes very easy to get swept up in the world of Instagram or “ living your best life” But while your big day approaches no matter how hard it might be to remember, your wedding day is so much more than chasing that next little heart on your photos. Marriage is about having an open heart and an open mind. Being able to share the messy and uncomfortable parts of yourself and that means #nofilter because in a world where everyone is one-upping each other don’t forget that JLo had it right all those years ago and keeping it real is so much more important. Although as a planner it is my job and privilege to make your wedding day as seamless as possible it is very important to keep in mind that everyone is human and no one is perfect. Setting unrealistic expectations on yourself, your wedding or your significant other can only lead to discontentment. Instead, put those phones down and keep that heart open. love is far greater than likes on social media and lasts so much longer. Remember to build memories on your wedding day because those are the best memories to share on and off the gram.

Photography By: Josh Salley of Frozen in Time Photography

Choosing Your Perfect Engagement Ring - Going Beyond The 4 c's

So, you are about to get engaged!!!  You are finally  going to get  your fairy tale moment, the one you have been obsessing over and dreaming about. The one that is in the final scene of your favorite sappy love movie. The one that makes you think.  " When will it be my turn". Well the wait is almost over and the most important box you will open is on its way!

 Before you say YES to your engagement ring, here are some tips to help guide your future fiance  to say yes to the right ring for the right reasons. This means saying yes to a ring with the right style, shape, origin and cost for you. 

How Big Is Your Love:

We've all seen them. They are those gigantic diamonds that could have caused the titanic to capsize. The diamonds that carry the same price tag as a small country. For many it's a dream to own something of this magnitude for a lifetime and only one will do. 

 You have been dreaming of the moment since, you watched Breakfast at Tiffany's and  you saw  Holly Golightly standing in front of the most iconic jewelry store. Always awaiting the day you get to select exactly which ring  goes in your infamous little blue box. Yes, Kim K can make them look like "must haves",  but don't get sucked into the idea that only a rock you can see from outer space can fulfill your lifelong marriage hopes. It is not the ring that counts. The most important move you can make is entering into your marriage in the best financial shape  possible .

That huge hope diamond is not always a happy marriage or bank account make. Make  sure you are entering into this commitment for the long haul and less for the thrill of Instgram likes from posting your new bling online. Now that the serious stuff has been discussed, lets get on with the fun and excitement for being presented the best question and incentive to say yes you will likely ever face! 

Cut, Color, Clarity, Carat:

All jewelers should emphasize the four C's of diamond buying to your fiance. the four c's of diamond buying are: Cut, Color, Clarity and Carat. The Cut of a diamond is the shape the color of the diamond. Some popular shapes are cushion, princess or marquee. The color simply means that there is no yellowness or discoloration due to low value. Remember the diamond should be white and easy to see through. Clarity means that there are no imperfections in your diamond that it is as sparkly as desired and is a true authentic stone. The lack of clarity is an easy way to spot a fake diamond. Carat is what can effect the budget the most.  it is the weight of the diamond and the  price difference between 1ct-2ct. can be astronomical. But the most important  important choice your fiance will make happens before they even walk in the store. Your future fiance should do their research to find a trustworthy professional and ethical jeweler who they can depend on. This is especially important when creating a custom piece.

Your jeweler is someone with whom you may establish a life-long relationship. They can help you  going past your engagement day with your wedding band selection.They might even turn into your partners "go- to" for birthdays, Christmas or anniversary presents. These points emphasize the need to look for quality not only in the ring selection but in the jeweler as well. This is one of the biggest purchases your fiance will ever make. So they need to be working with someone who is looking out for their best interest and not someone looking to take advantage of your moment.

All That Glitters Does Not Have To Be Gold:

Current trends have gotten away from the traditional single stone rings with a simple gold band. If this is your style there is absolutely nothing wrong with this.  But If you want something more intricate or unique there are so many amazing options out there. When it comes to the metal of your ring, don't be afraid to choose the color that matches your personal style. If you are a strictly a silver girl, try a white gold band. If you want something more unique, try a rose gold or bronze band. If none of these fit your budget, try a sterling silver or tungsten band. These  options can help save you thousands of dollars and help get the exact style you love without breaking your budget. Whatever you decide, make sure the certification of the metal and the diamond is given to you upon purchase. You want a quality band that will hold up as long as your marriage. Another very important purchase your fiance should make is ring insurance. Before they give you the ring tell them to purchase a simple policy that can be added to renters or homeowners insurance that will give you both peace of mind.

Are Diamonds Still a Girls Best Friend?

if you don't love the idea of diamonds think outside the box ( literally) and go with a more non-traditional stone such as an emerald, ruby, amethyst. If these gemstones  aren't in your current budget then Morganite  or lab grown diamonds might be for you. These stones are absolutely stunning and extremely hard to discern from diamonds. No two rings ever have to be the same. Just follow your heart and help steer your partner in a direction that makes sense for you all.  The only thing you need to worry about being timeless is the love you share with one another. Choose a modern design and if it goes out of style or you change your taste over time you can always have your diamond reset. 

Are Heirlooms Just For Tomatoes?  

When setting up a budget for your dream ring, never forget the importance of tradition and family heirlooms. It might be your grandmother's wish that you wear her 1920's art deco stunner, Or your future mother-in-laws 20th anniversary diamond from her first marriage. Either way, you should choose the one that is right for you. Even though a sentimental diamond is on the table you should not immediately feel pressure to select it. Ultimately this is YOUR ring so that means making sure the style fits your personality. If your family member is willing to part with their ring, you can always ask them if you can redesign the ring to fit in your taste. If the  origin of the ring is a concern ( perhaps it comes from a broken marriage or someone you never knew personally) try to see the big picture. Selecting this piece could help you shift your budget toward a down payment on your first home or bolster funds for a larger honeymoon.

With this lifelong piece make sure you feel 100% confident and comfortable accepting  it and that you aren't doing it to fit into someone eases ideal for you. 

This is Not The End:

There isn't  one correct path to acquiring your dream ring.  This ring this not the "end all be all" of your  marriage. If  you don't get the exact ring you wanted there are always milestone anniversary's and special occasions that present themselves as grand opportunities. Years from your engagement moment, you and your spouse  will be more established in your careers, making your dream ring more affordable. This first selection can serve as a place holder for your future rock. On the other hand (  no pun intended). You should not compare this ring with anyone else's the only comparison you should make is that you are able to remain as happy with your partner from the moment you say "Yes" throughout your marriage.   This allows you to help take the pressure off your future fiance and enjoy this very special time.

While selecting your ring is one of the more fun and exciting parts of getting engaged, remember that much like diamonds, marriage and the love you share with your loved one is forever.  

Carolyn + Stephen: Gamer's Paradise

What do you get when you mix two gamers, an adorable amount of love, and hometown charm with an eye for design?

The answer is Carolyn and Stephen's wedding that took place on June 9th 2018. Their wedding was one of the most unique and fun events Memory Lane has ever had the pleasure to plan. The wedding was in the brides childhood backyard and included Dungeons and Dragons, Nintendo and super hero references. From our initial meeting with the couple, we knew this wedding was going to be modern and fun just like them. We were honored to help offer full service coordination to this lovely bride and groom to help their ideas of the perfect wedding come to life. 

The Ceremony:

With so many unique and fun elements to this wedding, we knew the design for the ceremony space needed to feel warm and inviting. Carolyn is a successful interior designer and described her perfect date night as a night in with Stephen playing video games and just getting to be together. From the moment we heard this, we were inspired to use the theme "home" as the basis for the non-traditional ceremony space. Instead of having your typical wedding arch with flowers and drapery, we went for a minimalist approach using bookshelves. On these shelves were the couple's favorite games, books, photos of loved ones and mementos from their own belongings. This was a way to reflect Carolyn's passion for interior design with Stephen's love for video games and comic books. The floral placed on top of the shelves was done by Memory Lane Events.  

All in the  details:

Looking through the photos of this wedding you can clearly see that every element had the bride and groom's personal style stamped on it. From the bow ties of the groomsmen, the arcade games, and even the D&D Dice on the guest tables, every square inch of this wedding was a reflection of them. The colors the bride chose were Merlot, Gold and Navy to go with the comic book theme. This was carried throughout the grooms tux, the bridesmaid dresses and with the floral and decor.  This whimsical theme brought about so many chances for our creativity to go wild and the guests loved the non-traditional elements and the fact that everyone could just enjoy being together.   

Together is a wonderful place to be:

We loved the inclusion of family in this wedding and knew from the beginning that Carolyn and Stephen's main goal for their special day was to bring everyone together for a celebration  to be relax, have fun and make memories. One thing that planners love to see is the smile on the bride and grooms face when they see their vision come to life. The fact that the couple genuinely had such a fabulous time just being together and celebrating their union was truly heartwarming. Jessica Hall did a wonderful job of capturing of pure joy and togetherness. 

Divine Design: 

We were able to mix traditional wedding ideas with the couple's quirky style by using detailed pieces from local artists. Catie Heginbotham of Catie Bee Art designed the couple's timeline, decor. For their cake table we used a geode themed cake from the Sweetheart Bakery and topper custom made by Etsy that featured a silloute of the couple with their cat. The cupcakes were provided by a family friend (Mrs. Watson). When a community of artists and friend's come together to add their creative touches to a wedding it just makes each detail that much more personal and unique. 

Let The Games Begin:

Our favorite part of the wedding planning process was getting to plan an arcade themed reception. This element really brought the theme of Gamer's Paradise together. This was a fun way to get guests off their feet-whether they were sixty or six-and enjoy the nostalgic arcade games. It's not every day that an event planner can bring a Dave&Busters into a Bride's home, so this reception will forever go down as one of the most enjoyable we have had the pleasure to put together. There is just something extra special about getting to use a brides home as the venue because it gives the guests and family a greater sense of comfort and relaxation which helped keep the party going into the late hours of the night. With arcade rentals, the DJ spinning late 90's hits and tons of barbecue, this backyard tinted reception was one this sweet couple can remember for years to come. 

Photography: Jessica Hall of Julie Hall Photography

Game Rentals: Terry Shank

  Catering: Hog Wild Catering

   Dress: The Bride Shop of Louisville 

Flora and Coordination: Memory Lane Events LLC 

DJ: Matthew Holmes

Cake : Sweetheart Bakery 

Artwork: Catie Bee Art

Tent Rental: Bowling Green Tent Rental

Hair and Makeup: Cowan and Company  

How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Venue By: Elizabeth Parrish

When planning a wedding almost everything can be optional, from having a donut bar instead of a cake, to ditching a dress and wearing a tux instead, but the one thing
you cannot skip out on is a venue! You have to have a place for your friends and family
to come together and celebrate your big day!

Although, finding the perfect venue to fit your needs and price range is not as easy as it
may seem. There is such a wide range of options to choose from, wether it be a
beautiful barn, a huge ballroom, or an elegant restaurant. I have come up with a few tips
for finding your dream venue for your special day.

Talk to your planner first
Before you even start looking at places you should always consult your planner.
Planners are more familiar with the space, dates, and layouts of most venues that you
may be looking into already. Your planner will be able to guide you and help you know if
the venue you are looking into will be able to accommodate to everything you need.

Pick an overall ‘look’ for your venue

Overall you are going to want your wedding day to give out a specific vibe to your
guests. For example, if you want a more small and intimate wedding with just family and
a few friends, you would not pick a huge elegant ballroom as your venue. On the flip
side if you are looking for an elegant and sophisticated venue, having it in your
backyard will not be the way to go. You have to use your vision as a beginning point for
choosing your venue.
Picking your style is a good place to start when choosing a venue. A few examples
would be a traditional wedding, where venues showcase history and legacy, with little
distraction. Traditional weddings are usually held in churches or country clubs. You
might have a more natural style, which gives off a more bohemian vibe, set up in the
outdoors. This could be a wedding on the beach, in a park, or a beautiful garden setting.
If you choose a rustic style you may pick your venue at a farm, barn, or winery.
Whatever style you choose will help narrow down your venue options.

Remember Your Budget
Many people do not realize that it will cost more than just renting the space itself. For
example, most venues that have in-house catering will charge a specific price per plate.
Also, floral and decor add extra costs when picking a venue out. You must keep in mind
how much your overall budget is, and how much your vision for designs will add on to
that overall budget. It is helpful if you break down your budget into categories, while
making certain vendors more of a priority then others. It is important to not have your
mind set on one specific venue. You need to make sure to ask the venue coordinator to        breakdown all the costs of having a wedding there. This will help you have a summarized       mental picture of if the venue fits your price range.

Think about your guests
Your guest list plays one of the biggest roles when choosing a final venue. This is
because the amount of people that can fit in the venue space determines if you are able
to book that venue. Any wedding that has more than 350 people will not be able to have
an intimate wedding at a church, because your guests might not be able to all fit inside.
Although, if they did fit they would be uncomfortable and miserable. Even though this
day is about YOU your guests being happy should be factored in as well. Plus you want
all your guests to be able to see the ceremony and for your wedding pictures to turn out
perfectly.
Once your guest list is set to a final number make sure you bring that with you when you
tour venues. It would save you time by calling the venue ahead of time to see how many
people they can accommodate before even going there for a tour.
Your guests comfort is very important to consider when picking out a venue. If it is an
outdoor wedding make sure there is shade or fans available, always make sure there is
a backup plan incase of bad weather, and make sure every guest is able to have a good
view of the ceremony. The ceremony is what they are there to see so make sure they
have a good view. Make sure to find a perfect in between of finding your dream venue,
while still accommodating to your guests.
 

Specific Things to Consider                                                                                                                                         There are a few specific things you will need to keep in mind when touring new venues.
The first being catering, which some venues offer in-house catering, where they will give
you a testing to choose the menu. If you choose against the in-house catering make
sure to ask if they have any restrictions on foods and menus.
Next you need to consider the lighting in the venue you choose. You need to make sure
there is lighting for each spot you are going to have a stage the day of your wedding.
You want to make sure the pictures on your wedding day come out better then you
expected. I also suggest you ask the venue if they are able to provide or rent out lighting
equipment if needed.

Lastly, you should always ask about restrictions the venue has on specific things. These
restrictions are usually on specific vendors. Some places will not allow you to use any
vendor you want and will have a list you have to choose from. Venues will try and get
more money out of you by charging for vendors you choose that our not on their list. So
make sure to always ask about vendors for that specific venue.

Stay True to Your Vision
To sum everything up the most important thing to remember when choosing a venue is
to stay true to YOUR vision. Many couples will choose a venue that they loved from
pinterest, or from someone else's wedding. It is always a top priority to ask each other
what feels right for the both of you and what fits your style. Make sure to pick a space
that represents the two of you as a couple so it can be a special place to remember for
a lifetime. A venue might look beautiful and perfect online but it may not be the right fit
for you, Make sure to pick a venue that fits your vision and stay true to that.

Bohemian Rap- So Chic

If you're like us, You've watched Beyonce slay Coachella 100 times, on repeat since last Sunday If you're not familiar with the Coachella festival, here's a quick recap. for the last several weekends, thousands of fans, Hollywood celebrities and design influencer's flocked to the California dessert for this modern day Woodstock. Long flowing dresses, flower crowns and hippie chic style were the order of the day. This event exudes a slight 1970's flower child vibe but the unique mix of vintage glam with modern music and entertainment filled our hearts this year with design inspiration. We wanted everyone to get in on the fun by throwing a stunning bohemian inspired event without the celeberity price tag. Here are tips to help you achieve a boho-glam look without breaking the bank.

Incorporate Pops of Unexpected Color:  

The relaxed style of Coachella lends itself to ery bright colors, Indian and Mexican style decor accentuated with stunning bright huues of fabric. Typically, events are themed with two or three accent colors but this is not the case in a bohemian styled soiree. Think Roy-G-Biv instead of pastels or muted tones. Go bold with table linens, pops of bright colored florals and dinnerware. We love this tablescape from Paula Bartosiewicz Photogropy. 

Keep it on the Down Low: 

Another fun way to convey a bohemian style is to trade white garden chairs for folksy pillows or Moroccan style seating. These are easy and affordable ways to make an event more relaxed and intimate. Try comfy over sized cushions that double as decor and seating. We also recommend shipping pallets outside of department stores and avoid paying thousands of dollars on furniture rentals. We love this fun use of color for Veranda Magazine. 

Sharper Image:

Trade high price blooms for Cacti or Succulents, a more affordable move that will give your event the dessert vibe you're looking for. With Cacti being the trending plant they are easy to find, have a longer shelf-life and can double as favors. You can also enjoy them in your garden or terrarium all season long. Succulents are durable and recyclable as well with some variations lasting for years. Check out these adorable succulent accented centerpieces from Style Me Pretty. For more design inspiration head over to their website at

Dress The Part:

Celebrating Coachella would not be complete without mentioning it's fashion. This is a time to boldly express your inner indie hippie side. Go "dessert chic" with an airy white dress or perhaps rocker glam with cut offs and vintage inspired fringe. Here is a " look for less" that we absolutely love from local Nashville native boutique Everest and Company. This light weight white dress will be a a summer staple piece  and go wonderfully with the effortless casual and cool vibe that speaks Coachella fashion. Did we mention that every piece is under $50?... so no need to max out your credit card limit. Talk about a major steal! If that isn't enough, peep the link to the Everest and Co website for 10% off your first purchase. We heart showing our readers some free love. After-all, that is the Coachella way! 

We hope these ideas have inspired you to throw your very own Coachella- themed party. This fun aesthetic is great for birthdays, bridal showers or even bachelorette parties. 

Not to mention this theme will have your party guests raving, they will feels as though they had just seen queen Bey slay that stage "up close and personal" , and we bet they will create memories that will help them hang on to that feeling all summer long! 

Snap Decisions- Helping your photographer capture those special moments

We all have those photos pinned to our wedding day Pintrest board. You know the one's where the lighting is stunning, the couple looks so genuinely happy and you tell yourself these are the exact the type of photos I will have at my wedding someday. While it is fun to plan for your future and take dream wedding photos with your significant other,producing these amazing photos takes a bit of planning.

You have to  take the time to find the best photographer to fit your style, budget and ensure they are available to travel to your wedding venue. These things  may sound like a given, but there is a lot more  that goes into the preparation of capturing your wedding day exactly how you want it. wedding day are exactly what you were planning all along. Laurie Pearson an experienced portrait and wedding photographer of Nashville, specializes in capturing authentic moments in a professional way. She has given us some excellent tips on helping your wedding photographer get the perfect shots you can cherish for years to come. 

Communication is Key: Something most clients need to consider  Laurie says, is that if a couple can communicate the key shots that are most important to them on their wedding day, this allows for a photographer to better capture the unique moments that are the most important to them. If you can send your photographer a timeline of how your day will flow this will allow for better preparation with lenses, lighting and timing. Another tip is to tell your photographer about certain relationships you might feel are important to know ahead of time. For example if the bride and groom have divorced parents or an elderly disabled grandparent who needs to sit for photos this is good information to share because it makes finding the correct pose and position for everyone in your family feel comfortable and takes less time to set up. It's also helpful to comminicate with the photrapher if you feel uncomfortable showing public displays of affection in shots, or if you have certian insecurites the photogropher should be aware of and attempt to avoid.

Phone a Friend: Laurie explains that it is important to assign two or more people from each side of the two families joining together on your wedding day ( one for bride's family and one for groom's family) that can help identify and gather family members for photos. This allows the photographer to be more efficient in capturing important family memories. Laurie explains that assigning someone to help with this "allows for the family photo portion of the day to go by smoother and ensure that no one is left out." On the wedding day guests are often overwhelmed with excitement and therefore unfocused on when they might be needed for particular shots. Assigning a friend or family member will also cut down on the time it takes to locate certain guests  which allows for more time to be spent on capturing photos of the rest of the wedding festivities. After all the photographer has most likely never met the majority of your wedding guests so therefore it would be impossible to make sure everyone you want in these photos is present and accounted for. Make sure you are helping your photographer, help you by being organized. 

Keep it Light: Something Laurie adds, is that more couples should be aware of lighting when choosing certain locations for photos. She explains, "a dark, windowless room is going to be difficult for the photographer to create beautiful and flattering images." Thinking ahead to your timeline for the day she suggests including your photographer in the planning process so that they can ensure that you or your planner is given enough time to capture important moments. Even the time of day has a lot of impact on the quality of photos taken. Laurie says, "photographs at high noon are going to be harsher and more shadowy than later in the afternoon." If you do need to capture photos at high noon make sure you pick a location that offers some shade. "If I find shade I can make it work, but if the bride has their heart set on a particular location and the sun too harsh the photos will not live up to their full potential." That is why it is important to take a venue tour in the season that your wedding is scheduled for. This means that if you book your wedding venue in the summer but you are having a fall wedding it is important to consider what direction the sun will set, and the time of the sunset on your wedding day. These factors can also have a major effect lighting, so be aware of this when creating your timeline. 
 

Be Natural: Another important tip is to allow yourself to be vulnerable enough around your photographer to allow them to capture raw, un-posed emotions. While having a professional offer up their advice on certain poses Laurie explains," I prefer to capture un-posed and emotional moments that tell a story and show a couples love over instead of forced posed photos." After all it's your wedding day! After the cake is eaten, the dancing stops and the wedding dress gets hung up in a closet, it's  a wonderful feeling to know that your true love for one another was captured for you and your loved ones to reflect on for years to come. Expressing some of the quirkiness and individuality in props you might select, authentic joy or tears of happiness all allow for your wedding to stand amongst the card stock photos you see in catalogs portraying  deep emotions you feel on the happiest day of your life. 

Lead By Example: Another way to help make your photographers life easier is to show them examples of the types of photos you are wanting to capture. This is the easiest way to ensure everyone is on the same page. Examples can come from a Pinterest board, or photos of other weddings that you love.  Laurie says " I definitely love when a bride lets me know what type of photos they love in particular in my portfolio or from other sources of inspiration". Choosing particular photos you enjoy, might also help you determine what type of tones and lighting or even the season your wedding photos are modeled after. 

The final tip would be to make it your own Laurie says that, "at the end of the day I want clients to leave with photos they are in love with." This is unique to every couple but if you let your love be the best muse on your wedding day this will allow for the photos to tell a thousand words of your journey to the happiest day of your life.

If you're planning a wedding in the Nashville area and are currently looking for a photographer who is kind, creative and super talented check Laurie Pearson out at her website at http://lauriepearsonphotography.com/the-galleries/. Let her capture the most beautiful moments in your life!

Say " I Do" to your dream dress: Insider information on making wedding dress shopping a breeze

As a woman you will wear many dresses, your graduation, prom, formal, bridesmaid dress but none of these come close to the importance of your wedding gown. With this much pressure it's easy to be more stressed than excited when in the fitting room. Here are a few ways to have more fun with the process than to spend time worrying.

Leave your insecurities at the door: This might sound easier said than done but Madison from the award winning Bridal Salon Mia Grace is here to offer her advice. Madison says, "The consultant is there to help guide you and support you with your decision, by having your walls up when you go into the appointment it can cause tense and difficulty for the bride to hear exactly what you want and be able to create that beautiful, confident dream for you." Each woman has their own insecurities.

Know Before You Go: The wedding dress industry is notorious for making dresses that run a full two to three dress sizes small with most designers.  Madison has this to say about the experience  "Do not lose courage when trying on gowns because the samples will never fit exactly how the bride will wear them on the wedding day. Until the
gown is ordered in the color and size best for you and then altered exactly how it needs to be, all of the floor samples are going to fit a little differently. You must be confident in yourself and know that the gown will be incredible on
you and when it is altered to fit your body specifically.

Know your budget and stick to it:It is easy to watch way too many episodes of Say Yes to the Dress and forget the price tag. But for more conservative  brides, set a clear dress budget and look at the price tag before you fall in love in the fitting room. The worst feeling is getting excited about a dress when it is out of your budget. This could have the potential to ruin your appointment and keep you from finding your true dream dress. One suggestion to save money is to look for deals that most bridal salons will offer at the end of each season, Winter is a great time to look because this is typically the least busy time for store owners who want to make a deal with brides. 

When to go shopping : Madison says "The majority of bridal gowns ship twice a year. Spring gowns arrive between the end of January and end of March. Fall gowns arrive between end of July and end of September. This means that brides should shop at the end of these shipping periods in order to see the newest gowns in the bridal market!The store will always hold their best gowns all of the year, but a bride may find the gowns she views online during the prime shipping times." 

Expect the Unexpected: While it is helpful going into the experience with an idea and possibly some pictures of the style of the dress you might want, Madison explains why a flexible attitude is best for your wedding dress search She explains,  "Come with an open mind to features of gowns that you may have not thought of before. Try those different options on because the gowns always look different on each individual bride than they do on the hanger or on the model in the picture." For example you might walk into the appointment thinking you want a blush, long sleeved lace dress and leave with a sweetheart, organza ivory gown. 
 

Limit Your Entourage: We recommend only bringing 3-4 people maximum. Even though it's very fun to have all your friends and family there for the experience, it can be beyond overwhelming to hear so many different opinions from so many different people. The bride must remember it is her wedding, the gown should be what she wants, and everyone will
think she is beautiful no matter which gown she picks

Make It Fun: This is your time to shine and you should not let your insecurities, someone else's opinion or your budget get you down. Ways to help you center your mind are to eat before you come, if you are hungry you will be fatigued and foggy. Come to the appointment knowing that the dress will be altered to fit you and not the other way around. Bring those people closest to you and prep them before you go to remember that this is a high stress time in your life and to try and limit their negative comments. Try one dress on you might never wear just to break the ice. Avoid wearing lace undergarments because these tend to get stuck in the dress. Avoid Caffeine before you go so that you are less jittery and just remember your end goal with the dress. To amaze your other half on your wedding day! This moment is yours so make it amazing. With the help of your close family and friends, a great consultant, an open mind and a fairy godmother seamstress you are sure to find your dream dress. Happy hunting my beautiful fierce friends! 

Let them Eat Cake :Tips from a wedding cake expert on selecting which dessert is right for your day

 

Choosing Your Wedding Cake can often be as challenging as narrowing down which dress is "The One", Lynsey Wood of Sweetheart Bakery offers her expert tips on choosing the best cake or dessert for your memorable day!   

Start With Style In Mind: the cake should be seen as an accessory for your theme, colors or even hobbies and interests. This is an easy way to incorporate your theme of the day. If you are a glam bride consider using metallic gold to make a statement. If you are a rustic bride a ruffle cake might be the way to go. If you are a quirky bride this might be the place to interject some Game of Thrones references. Whatever you choose keep it focused on you and your fiances style, taste and overall dreams.   

Stick With Your Budget: Although wedding cakes are one of the more fun elements of the wedding decisions. The price tag for lavish cakes might be more sour than sweet. Keep this in mind when selecting a bakery or vendor to make your cake, knowing your guest count helps to narrow down the price and sticking to a simple design might be the way to go for budget brides.

Make it Yours:  Another option is instead of the traditional five tier cake with over the top finishes consider a naked cake, cupcake tower, pies or even a popcorn bar instead. The modern couple is getting away from a mainstream wedding cake and making the dessert portion of the evening a fun nod at their unique couple style. Often times couples forget that the dessert option can also be a unique way to honor your family heritage. Even echoing the season your wedding is being held in can help you create a cozy vibe. For winter weddings consider a cookie bar or for the Fall bride mini pies might be the way to go. 

Taste is important: Although traditional white cake with buttercream frosting can be a major crowd-pleaser, it is important that you enjoy the way your wedding cake tastes. Don't be afraid to use flavors that are less common such as cookies and cream or peanut butter cup. This will allow your guests a break from the monotony. On the other hand if you love buttercream be true to yourself and go a more traditional route.  

Be true to yourself: When selecting a cake, dessert or any other element for your big day it is important to not let others dictate what you choose. Listen to your heart and try not to select something just because you feel as though this is what is expected of you. This might seem trivial to say about a cake but if you keep a level head and stand up for your choices this will be easier to do on bigger decisions. But most importantly take time to savor each bite. You have spent months or even years planning for the most memorable day of your life so be sure to enjoy each delicious detail of this day!