Santa Fe Wedding Planner

In the Mood for Tapas?

2010-04-04T10:12:00.003-06:00

Planning a trip to Santa Fe or ABQ to begin planning your destination wedding?

Enjoy these great dining deals without breaking the bank. ART & SOUL Weddings and Events wishes to thank Billie Frank at the Santa Fe Insider Travel Examiner for letting us in on this great dining secret, making some of our favorite restaurants significantly more affordable!

"The participating eateries are diverse; they run from the order at the counter," reports Billie..."to eat in on white linen tablecloths. Cuisines include Asian, New Mexican, Mexican, Italian, Middle Eastern, Ayurvedic and American."

She continues: "The certificates are good for 90 days; some restrictions apply including blackout dates. Some coupons are good only for dinner; others specify days they can be used. All require at least two diners be present; some stipulate that two entrees be ordered. Read each restaurant’s restrictions carefully before you buy to make sure they work for you. The certificates are not a bargain unless you can use them. There is a $2.00 service charge per order. You can buy as many as you want for each place and give them as gifts. You can go to the website and buy what you want. According to owner Brett Hill if you subscribe to the site’s weekly newsletter, delivered to your in-box on Tuesdays, you will get local dining news plus special discounts good through Thursday of that week."

Currently, fifteen Santa Fe restaurants are in the program offering discounts that range from 25% to 60%. Visit the website, and see what Santa Fe restaurants are currently offered.

Buying and Selling a PreOwned Wedding Dress

2010-03-24T14:07:00.005-06:00

The Santa Fe Wedding Planner is very pleased to host guest blogger Josie Daga, founder of PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com today. Thank you Josie for sharing your expert advice not only advising brides on how they can save $$$ before the wedding, but recoup some of the dollars spent after the your nuptials too.

Smart Savings: When It Pays to Recycle

Buying a pre-owned wedding dress (and selling your dress after the wedding to recoup some costs) is an idea whose time has come.

Most wedding dresses that are used, have only been “used” for about 5 hours. And brides can get a pre-owned dress for 50% (or more) off of the retail price. So if you are looking to save money on your wedding, without skimping, a pre-owned wedding dress is a perfect choice.

Here’s our advice for buying online, if you're in the market for a used wedding bridal gown:

Research the gown’s retail price. Look online and in bridal boutiques. Check how similar pre-owned ones are priced. Knowing a dress’ market value will help you in your negotiations.
If possible, try the gown on at a local store. Many pre-owned gowns are still available at retail. Trying the gown on first will allow you to see how it fits/flatters your figure.
Ask questions about every detail. Ask when and where the gown was purchased. Ask to see a copy of the original receipt if the seller kept it. Ask about fabric, detailing, fit alterations, and flaws. Get photographs of the gown from all necessary angles, including any of flaws/imperfections.
If applicable, confirm if the gown is authentic to the designer and not a copy. A certificate of authenticity, a photo of the label, or an indication on a store receipt is all ways to confirm this.
Confirm if/how the dress was cleaned and stored. If the gown is over 2 years old, ask about yellowing of any lace or other fine fabric.

Protect yourself in an online transaction. Use a protected payment service like escrow.com you have recourse if an issue arises.

If you smartly decided to sell your wedding dress after your wedding, here’s what you can expect. Typically a used gown, in excellent condition, that is less than two years old will sell for 50% of its retail price. Older gowns and gowns will some flaws (dirt on hem etc) also sell, with a price adjustment for those factors.

And if you are among the growing number of brides who purchased a wedding dress, but ended up wearing a different one --You can expect to sell an unworn (new or sample) gown for 25% less than the price paid.

For more info on the dresses shown here:

Above: Vera Wang, Helene, label size 6, (street size 4)

Below: Dress by Rivini, label size 10 (street size 6)

Keep It Simple - Choose a Vintage Cake Topper

2010-03-15T12:03:00.004-06:00

Tip #10

Top Your Cake with a Beautiful Topper

Order a simply decorated wedding cake, add a fun cake topper and you can shave some costs off the wedding cake by keeping the cake décor to a minimum. Make sure you have a cake tasting to know that the cake is as yummy inside as it is simply elegant on the outside.

A search on google reveals close to hundred cute toppers available from companies like Wedding Star Inc (WeddingStar.com), who offer contemporary figurines reflecting the personalities of the bride and groom, the ethnic heritage of the couple or the humorous pastimes of one or both of the couple.

An elaborately decorated cake can easily cost upwards of $7.oo and more per slice. Even if you spend $35 on a special cake topper, by selecting a cake bake who can provide a simpler design for around $3.75 a slice, you’ll have saved more than a few dollars that can go toward centerpieces or your floral budget. Want to save more? Sell your cake topper on ebay after the wedding’s over, but make sure the photography has taken some fun close-ups for your wedding album.

For ideas, shop on ebay or at your favorite antique store for vintage bride-and-groom figurines, good-luck horseshoes (especially if you have Irish or Scottish family roots), wedding bells, or a pair of doves – all classic symbols that can make a cake memorable.

Ask family members if they have a vintage top they would share. By ordering a moderately-priced, simply decorated cake and topping with a conversation piece, the focal point of the cake will be the cake top figurines.

Another cost saving tip

Another way to trim wedding costs is to inquire with your venue as to what they charge for a cake-cutting fee. Some venues do not charge for this service, while other venues charge a range of $2.00 - $3.50 per slice for what they call a “cake plating” or cake-cutting service. If you are having a large wedding, this can quickly add up! If your venue charges a fee, ask that the fee be eliminated or reduced to a lesser fee. Better yet, choose a venue that doesn’t charge a fee and you will immediately have saved yourself $100 or more, depending on your guest count.

Recycling Vera Wang

2010-03-09T12:35:00.005-07:00

Tip #9

Consider a Pre-owned Wedding Dress

If you have your heart set on wearing a designer wedding dress and love the idea of recycling the good vibes and fashion forward dress of another bride's fabulous day, run - don't walk - over to PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com

PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com is a website connecting buyers and sellers of designer wedding dresses. The site has over 300,000 visits per month, with brides buying and selling thousands of designer gowns each year.

The asking price for this vampy Linea Rafaffaelli is $700. The original buyer purchased it in Europe for a wine country wedding. Tres chic.

Buying and selling wedding dresses has become very popular over the last few years because it's a great way for brides to save on wedding costs - or to recoup some of costs after the fact (by selling after the wedding). Site founder Josie Daga tells of a recent sale of a $28,000 gown selling on the site for $15,000, the high end of the pre-owned prices! Wedding dresses on the site start at $150, with more than 150 different designers represented.

The Maggie Sotera (left) is currently available for $350.

In love with Vera Wang? Purchased for $8,200, the seller of this number, Diana (right) will let it go for 5K. Don't want to pay that price? Sign up for Price Reduction alerts and get an email if the seller decides to drop the price.

Visit the website for more than just dresses. Says Daga, "One thing our blog readers really like are tips, ideas and examples of how to get 'The Look for Less.' Because, even though the brides who use our site are buying pre-owned gown, they are still planning beautiful - and in many cases, expensive - weddings. These brides splurge when necessary and save on other items."

Watch the Santa Fe Wedding Planner for a very special blog post when we invite Josie Daga, PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com to be our guest blogger! Details to come :-)

When You Wish Upon a Star...

2010-03-03T17:29:00.003-07:00

We're helping to get the word out about Wish Upon a Wedding, America's original wedding wish granting organization. Endorsed by some of the top leaders in the industry, Wish Upon a Wedding is dedicated to granting weddings and/or civil union ceremonies at destinations across the United States to couples who are facing terminal illness, regardless of sexual orientation.

It is the hope of the foundation, created to celebrate the courage, determination and spirit of these couples by granting their dream wedding wishes, that chosen recipients can inspire others couples facing similar situations to find hope and strength. Click on the image below to read more about this wonderful organization, then visit the foundation's website to explore ways that you can be involved.

When Good Intentions Just Aren't Enough

2010-02-27T13:39:00.006-07:00

Okay, today is just for laughs. Much needed. Enjoy these will-intentioned (but bad... so bad) cake disasters found at Cake Wrecks.

Hmmm.... when did the "I want a wedding cake to match my bust" trend start?

A variation on Catch Your Own Lobster... How about a wedding cake aquarium?

Or last, but not least...the one year anniversary cake that didn't exactly inspire memories of the original Wedding day. While the original cake and presentation was quite lovely, see what happened one year later when it came time to celebrate the anniversary.

(Left) What bride-to-be Vanessa asked for...

What the Mrs. got as the first anniversary cake. Kinda' looks like a children's slide.

Thanks to Jen Yates, for her funny, funny posts and cakes gone wrong. For more hilarious wedding day disasters hit up the wedding section at Cake Wrecks.

That's What Friends Are For

2010-02-23T12:31:00.003-07:00

Tip #8

Have a friend officiate

Remember the Friends episode when Joey, dressed in WWII military dress, married Chandler and Monica? He'd come directly from a film rehearsal still in costume and in typical Joey (aka Doofus) style, warmed our hearts with his genuine, though gone a tad awry, sentiments about marriage and his dear friends about to be married.

It wasn't Joey's oratory skills that got Chandler and Monica married. It was a combination of two factors: 1) He went online and became ordained and 2) he loved his friends and wanted to support them.

If you're needing to stretch your wedding dollars, consider asking a friend to officiate your ceremony.

Now... I hesitate to write this because of all the wonderful ministers, priests and officiants that I have the great privilege of working with. Please, dear officiant friends, forgive me.

While a Santa Fe officiant’s fee ranges from (approximately) $250 to $350, for the time the officiant spends with you helping you design your perfect ceremony, meeting with you to get to know you and officiating at your ceremony, for the hours they’ve spent with you, their compensation is minimal. I often wonder how my most favorite and beloved officiants make a living from their fees.

If you do decide to ask a dear one to officiate for you, getting ordained can be free or cost a nominal fee. Here are some great resources:
For an informative article at the Wall Street Journal Online, read "Chapel Bound: Getting Ordained Online." There are several links here for getting ordained.

To become ordained for free, find out more information about the process or for state-by-state Marriage Law, visit Universal Life Church Monastery. Also at this site is Perform a Ceremony: A Three-step Guide.

And last, but not least, to help you write your ceremony, here is highly recommended book, The Wedding Ceremony Planner by ecumenical/interfaith officiant and life coach Judith Johnson.

The Next Generation in Wedding Planning

2010-02-19T19:28:00.004-07:00

Tip #7

Buy Recycled

Welcome to the next generation in wedding planning. Be a Recycled Bride.

Besides being eco-friendly, this smart new site gives you the opportunity to buy designer wedding gowns with labels like Lazaro, Melissa Sweet, Monique Lhuillier, Reem Acra, Rivini and Vera Wang, just to name a few and all for a fraction of the original price.

A free marketplace for eco-savvy brides and their friends, you'll find everything from designer wedding gowns to table decorations, bridesmaids dresses, shoes and even wedding gifts. If you have ever been part of a wedding, or plan to be, buying and selling on Recycled Bride helps minimize your carbon footprint and maximize your budget.

Gotta love their tagline: Bridezillas Need Not Apply ;-)

Plan Ahead - Plan DIY

2010-02-15T09:37:00.006-07:00

Tip #6

DIY Program, Menu and Stationery Templates

If you're even just a little bit crafty, these Do-it-Yourself templates from Martha Stewart can save you both time and money. DIY programs, menus and stationary are great ways to provide a delightful personalization to your wedding day.

The trick with DIY is to plan them well in advance of your wedding day and only choose one or two projects. Remember to practice the KISS principle - Keep it Simple, Sister!

For pretty programs, choose paper to compliment your wedding day colors. See template options at Martha Stewart: DIY Weddings and Templates.

To make these program covers, type in your wedding date, print on letter-size paper or card stock, fold in half, and bind with rayon cords.

Menu Template

Download the editable template to create your own menu and just fill it in with the courses you plan to serve at your reception. These templates and more can be found at Martha Stewart. For the menu template, see Slide 3.

Shop Online Sales

2010-02-12T18:29:00.002-07:00

Tip #5

Take advantage of online sales

Sign up for online newsletters from your favorite vendors and watch for sales announcements. Here's one just in from papermints.

With orders of 100 invitations or more, in celebration of Valentine's this month, Papermints is offering a February special of 50 FREE RSVP CARD SETS ($75 value) with orders of 100 invitations or more! (Digital Printing Only)

This special offer is applicable for invitation orders placed between now until February 28th, 2010. Shop now and use coupon code RSVP50 to enjoy your special savings today!

Consider the Off-Season

2010-02-06T09:54:00.003-07:00

Tip #4

Choose a less popular month or day for your wedding date

This is especially true when it comes to destination weddings. For a destination wedding in Hawaii or Mexico, choose September through November for cost savings because they're less popular tourism months. Hotels and flights to these locales will usually be less expensive during these months than during the peak in January through March.

Some destination wedding locations are by nature less expensive locales than others. For example, the Caribbean island of Anguilla is a very luxurious locale with primarily ultra-exclusive hotel and restaurant options. On the other hand, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic and Aruba offer a variety of mid-range and luxury hotels, and offer a wider budget range for restaurants and tourist activities. By selecting a more moderately priced island, you will be able to save money on both your travel and your wedding.

If you're planning a Santa Fe wedding, your most considerable cost savings are going to be realized in the months of November and January through April. While you won't be able to enjoy an outdoor wedding in say, January or February, you can have an extraordinarily lovely intimate fireplace wedding at Santa Fe's Hotel St. Francis, for example.

Consider the elegant Southwestern-themed Tesuque Room at the Inn & Spa at Loretto if you have a larger guest list. As long as you meet a Food & Beverage minimum at the Inn at Loretto, you won't pay a room rental charge (HUGE savings), and in the off-season months, you're going to see lower Food & Bev minimums than you will in the more popular months of June through mid-October.

The same holds true for having a Friday or Sunday wedding - you'll see the F&B minimums go down considerably for non-Saturday events.

There are lots of ways to have the wedding of your dreams, you just have to slip outside the box!

Add Your Signature

2010-02-05T14:08:00.004-07:00

In keeping with yesterday's suggestion to limit your alcohol service to wine and beer for your wedding reception to keep your bar costs from escalating, today's tip is along the same lines, but makes things just a tad more festive.

Tip #3

Add a signature wedding cocktail

Serving a signature cocktail, such as an apple martini or a prickly pear margarita, gives your guests another option at your wedding reception, in addition to wine and beer, without adding the larger expense of providing a full bar.

Prickly Pear Margaritas are a hot trend, especially for Southwestern events, says Angela Reese, event planner with Walter Burke Catering, in Santa Fe.

Visit the Cocktail Guru Jonathan Pogash for a host of other exciting wedding cocktail ideas.

Scale Down the Bar

2010-02-04T13:19:00.009-07:00

Tip #2

If budget is an issue… no need for a full bar

At your wedding reception, consider limiting the alcohol to wine and beer, choices that will satisfy most of your guests.

Sign up for newsletters or join mailing lists at wine shops. If you’re working with a caterer who allows you to purchase your own alcohol (in Santa Fe, all of the caterers that we work with allow this), when wines you want for your wedding go on sale, buy in bulk.

If you’re coming to Santa Fe, watch the specials on Gruet.com. Gruet, our very own New Mexican wine and sparkling wine producers, make a lovely champagne, desired by those with a very discriminating palate. No need to spend oodles on an expensive champagne when we have Gruet.

Buy Wholesale

Buy your own wine and beer wholesale. Buy from a winery or use a wholesale club membership. Ask if your caterer charges a corkage fee. In Santa Fe, ART & SOUL Weddings and Events works with caterers who do not charge a corkage fee. You will need to spring for a licensed bartender to pour, but that’s only commonsense. And we can help there too.

Most merchants offer a 10 percent discount for buying wine by the case, and they may be open to increasing the discount if you purchase several cases at once.

Check into wine that's available in magnums (bottles twice the size of regular ones); several quality wines are. Wine sold in a magnum costs less per ounce.

Eliminating a full bar at your wedding reception is going to save you significant dollars. Offer some great red and white wines, a selection of imported beers and some local favorites and your guests will never mess the hard stuff! If your wedding party insists they're going to want to do some shots, add some bottles of whiskey onto your alcohol budget, then at a pre-specified time during the reception, bring out a few bottles for a round of shots and party hardy without blowing your budget.

2010 Copyright www.insightfoto.com

Coming up... Budget Help

2010-02-03T12:32:00.005-07:00

Valentine's Day always sprouts a fresh crop of the "newly engaged." To spare these couples the shock of how quickly wedding costs can escalate and spiral out of control, in the month of February, I'll be sharing tips on how to manage your wedding budget.

Tip #1

Your first, best and easiest way to keep the budget under control is to limit the guest count and the size of your wedding party

Rather than having your wedding in your home town, where you (and often, your parents) would be likely to have considerable social obligations, consider a domestic wedding destination like Santa Fe. Invite only family and your nearest and dearest friends for immediate cost savings. For example, if your per person dinner cost is $65 per plate, eliminating one table of 8 guests nets you a minimum savings of $520.

For your wedding party, entertain the idea of each of you having just one attendant. Not having to deal with managing a number of personalities will save you significant stress and only needing to buy a couple of very special gifts for your maid of honor and best man, will stretch your wedding dollars further.

Look What's New at Dessy

2010-01-29T19:34:00.000-07:00

Explore colors, view Dessy styles and accessories, upload your own photos and share your ideas with the new Dessy Inspiration Boards. Get inspired! Visit the Wedding Inspiration Styleboard Gallery today and learn to make your own. Here's just one fun example with a yellow and gray palette:

Dessy - always a great resource for bridesmaid dresses just got better!

Yippee Skippy... I'm going to Laura's, I'm going to Laura's...

2010-01-16T19:15:00.002-07:00

Yuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuum. One of my bride's just booked an appointment with the delicious Santa Fe couture designer, Laura Sheppherd. Taste these...

Whether your taste in fashion is for simple elegance, or more fitting for Versaille, this collection is meant to feed your aesthetic longings. Find more fine and exquisitely tasty offerings at LauraSheppherd.com.

Sweet Treats

2010-01-15T11:00:00.008-07:00

One event trend that seems here to stay is the cupcake presentation. We saw this trend start about six years ago; this year it's appearing as fresh and fun as ever. Always delightful (as long as they taste as good or better than they look), here are some yummilicous ideas for inspiration from Martha Stewart Weddings.

This one's actually meringue, split and filled with strawberry-rhubarb compote and cream whipped with creme fraiche.

Can't get enough caffeine? How about this coffee-infused Triple Chocolate number...

See about a dozen more cupcake temptations, including recipes at Martha Stewart Weddings.

Want to uber impress your guests with these lace cupcake towers? Martha even provides the clip art.

Sign up for Martha's daily Inbox ideas. What a sweet way to start the day -- the ideas from Martha, that is -- I'll hold off on the cupcakes till the next wedding :-).

Fancy This

2010-01-12T14:49:00.005-07:00

Looking for a fabulous selection of yummy, yummy papers for your DIY projects? Creative ideas for fiance's Vday card? Look no further. Paper Source is your online resource for exquisite papers, crafty ideas, sumptuous custom printed wedding invitations, sassy organizational accessories and a whole lot more.

If you're lucky enough to have a Paper Source retail store in your city, I'm jealous. Make your True Love a one-of-a-kind Heart Card at their Paper Source workshops on Jan. 31, 2010. See their website and blog for workshop locations and times. Make it a date with your gal pals for a creative and light-hearted evening with the girls.

Happy crafting and remember to keep your priorities straight - it's not about perfection, it's not about expensive ... it's all about LOVE!

We're in the Little Black Book!

2010-01-06T19:17:00.007-07:00

Last month I received this note from Shawna Brinkley of StyleMePretty.com:

Dear Cynthea,
Because we genuinely admire the high quality of your wedding planning expertise, I'm writing to invite you to join our Little Black Book of Very Important Vendors.

A truly unique virtual resource, The Little Black Book shows off the most innovative and chic wedding professionals on the planet.

Our process for extending each invitation is rather extensive, and is research-based. [We] peruse top vendor blogs, paying close attention to first-rate work and taking notes accordingly. We also consult with our preferred members and other trustworthy industry professionals, as well as our internet-savvy, sophisticated readers. Our approach is a bit atypical, but so is our book.

Although my email-box averages 400 emails per day, we prefer to handpick outstanding companies such as your own who represent the crème de la crème of the wedding industry.

I read this with both surprise and delight and of course, accepted the invitation.

Today our listing went live. It's a privilege and an honor to be among the industry's elite. So as an avid follower of Style Me Pretty, the uber-awesome and ultimate wedding blog, it's a proud day to be able to say... see us in Style Me Pretty's Little Black Book!

Happy Frickin' New Year

2010-01-03T19:06:00.006-07:00

It's been a challenging ten days. ART & SOUL's computer became infected w/ a virus. SERIOUSLY infected. By a new virus called 2010 Internet Security. How's that for a brilliant virus name? Computer guy saved the day by saving all our files. God bless him. Truly. He deserves a bottle of Patron and more.

I missed saying good bye to 2009 with you. And most of all I missed wishing you a Happy New Year.

So here it is now.

Belated, but not a fraction less sincere.

It's not a good thing that we have become so dependent on our technology. It keeps us so busy, so tied to something that does not give us back life.

And thank God, technology will never, ever, ever replace love.

Congratulations to all the happy couples who became engaged over the holiday season. While you're feeling overwhelmed as you begin the wedding planning process... please remember this: be kind to each other, lift each other up, compromise on the things that aren't that important. Enjoy your companionship and be thankful that you have found each other.

I'll close my New Year Wishes and congratulations with words from a Hawaiian Song I found in a wedding anthology:

Here all seeking is over,
the lost has been found,
a mate has been found
to share the chills of winter---
now Love asks
that you be united.
Here is a place to rest,
a place to sleep,
a place in heaven.
Now two are becoming one,
the black night is scattered,
the eastern sky grows bright.
At last the great day has come!

HAWAIIAN SONG from the translation of E.S. Craighill Handy and Mary Kawena Pukui (adapted by Jane Hirshfield) Published in "Into the Garden: A Wedding Anthology"

Blessings to you all and may 2010 be everything you hope for and more.
With love and in deep gratitude for each bride and groom who have given us the privilege of assisting you with your weddings,

ART & SOUL Weddings and Events

New Sasha Souza: Ready to Ship

2009-12-23T14:27:00.001-07:00

I've never been a fan of over the top weddings. Too much excess, IMHO.

I *am* however, a follower of trendsetter event designer Sasha Souza and have been, since I launched ART & SOUL Weddings and Events in 2004.

In that year, Sasha was honored by Modern Bride Magazine as one of the top 25 trendsetters in the wedding industry, being included with top industry pros such as Colin Cowie and Preston Bailey, among others. She was asked to serve on the Modern Bride Advisory Panel. Today she is considered among the top event design and coordination companies in the nation.

I've always found her designs, especially her Napa Valley weddings, to be breathtaking. I'm inspired by the homage she pays to the natural environment, integrating and interweaving the textures of the immediate landscape directly into the event. This is a woman after my own heart. A kindred spirit and a great role model.

I follow Sasha on Sparkliatti, her fresh, fun and highly energetic blog for event planners and brides-to-be. Today, for example, she posted about Flings Recycling & Trash Containers, convenient, portable, compact bins that snap open accordion-style to roughly the size of a tall kitchen bin for recycling and trash. How refreshing is that. ;-)

And now, without further ado, today's news is this: Sasha Souza's newest inspiration book, "Magnificent Weddings by Design" is ready to ship through Amazon. Inspiration for the New Year. :-)

Dallas Brides... time to plan that Santa Fe wedding

2009-12-16T14:46:00.004-07:00

New flight added! $99 fares still available - Dallas to Santa Fe

Another American Eagle, Dallas to Santa Fe Municipal Airport flight starts on 2/11/10. The new daily schedule - getting into Dallas before 11 am and leaving for Santa Fe after 7:30 pm - means making national connections will be much easier. $99 fares still available for current American Eagle flights to Santa Fe.

Dallas brides? Getting engaged at Christmas? Time to plan your Santa Fe wedding!

DIY Bride Does It Again

2009-12-12T08:53:00.010-07:00

Bridal buddy Khris Cochran just received her personal copies of her newest book. I checked Amazon and it is IN stock, just in time for the in-love gals getting engaged over the holidays.

The DIY Bride Crafty Countdown: 40 Fabulous Projects to Make in the Months, Weeks & Hours before Your Special Day

One of the greatest challenges for the Do-it-Yourselfer planning projects in preparation for your wedding day is allowing enough time to get those projects done. No doubt about it, DIY can save money, but watch out for the additional stress of adding projects to your To-Do list. DIY diva Khris Cochran eases the stress by outlining calendar conscious crafts that won't put you over the edge.

Purchase The DIY Bride Crafty Countdown today!

Altar Eco

2009-12-09T18:31:00.006-07:00

Loving the new direction that the Broke-Ass Bride is taking.

Watch for the Green-Ass Bride & Groom, bringing you Eco-Chic on the Cheap, a regular column in the (soon-to-be-launched) Eco-Beautiful Weddings E-zine and their brand new "eponymous" blog.

According to the Green-Ass B & G, "we're psyched to be bringing our love for weddings and our love for the earth together in a big old lovefest (aka our column, debuting December 15th) to help you find your perfect shade of green, while saving some green!"

Check 'em out!

Randall Davey Audubon Center

2009-12-06T12:18:00.001-07:00

Enjoyed a wonderful class yesterday at Randall Davey Audubon Center at the end of Upper Canyon Road. I was reminded of what a beautiful and natural gem this property is for outdoor events. Photographer Babak Dowlatshahi of Insight Foto, Inc. likes to take the wedding party to the Audubon Center for photos after the ceremony. Here are just a few shots to show the natural beauty of this outdoor location.

All photos by Insight Foto, Inc.

We're on Facebook

2009-12-04T16:14:00.001-07:00

Find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/artandsoulweddings. We've just posted some of our favorite cakes from favorite past weddings with Maggie Faralla. Become an ART & SOUL Weddings and Events FAN.

For the Fashionista Bride: the Birdcage Veil

2009-11-29T10:41:00.003-07:00

From fellow blogger Randi at Always Fabulous Events, one of this season's hottest wedding trend: the Birdcage Veil.

Found on etsy, for the fashionista bride.

Romantic Santa Fe Wedding

2009-11-26T10:38:00.003-07:00

Going through the photo archives of ART & SOUL Weddings and Events this month. One of my favorite couples captured by one of my favorite photographers, serenaded by my favorite musicians, on the patio of Luminaria, Inn & Spa at Loretto.

Photography by Babak Dowlatshashi, Insight Foto, Inc.

Silly fun wedding stuff

2009-11-20T09:08:00.004-07:00

Spill the beans with a Save the Date refrigerator magnet.

For even more fun, seal the package with a Save the Date stamp.

Better yet, customize the stamp!

Another option...send your thank you stamped with your wedding photo. All available at Zazzle.com

Daisy in the Blue Bells

2009-11-14T07:57:00.004-07:00

I love my clients.

I recently received this email:

Dear Cynthea,
Thanks for your response to questions about Pranzo. Pass the baton to us...we will take it from here. You have helped us think, rethink and think again what we want to do for 9-10. Your input has been extremely helpful and D and K seem pleased with what we are doing...including the rental house…. In fact, they think the rental house is a great plan. (Go girl!) ....

The groom's mom had hired me to find the perfect Friday night welcome dinner for their son’s Santa Fe destination wedding.

The parents ultimately chose the 2nd level Terrace Room at Pranzo Italian Grill. Great room, great food, fabulous views. While emailing, we exchanged photos of our canine pets.

Gotta love their dog Daisy, in a field of Texas Blue Bells.

Darling husband asked, "How long do you think Daisy sat after the photo was taken?"

etsy wedding

2009-11-11T09:39:00.010-07:00

ARGGGG... Spent too much time on etsy this morning looking at cool wedding stuff. Not that I didn't enjoy every minute of it. It's just that I can't afford to spend the morning etsying away. So I'll share two things and then get on with today's to-do list:

#1 Wedding signage. Help your guests find their way. From familyattic.

Now here's the find of the day:

#2 Let someone else do the sorting and finding the cool stuff on etsy for you at The ETSY WEDDING blog.

Offbeat finds for the eclectic bride.

oh em gee those wedding chicks did it again

2009-11-10T21:37:00.010-07:00

Gotta love the wedding chicks.
Handing out free downloads for great DIY projects.
THAT ARE EASY!!
No small task.
Oh wait... *this* could be considered a small task!

Run, don't walk to www.weddingchicks.com

Check out this free heather gray and butter yellow wedding save the date. It's an easy download available right on their site. Bless their hearts.

Check out the stamps. Available at your nearest post office.

Scouting the perfect rehearsal dinner restaurant

2009-11-07T16:18:00.009-07:00

I love it when a client tasks me with something that allows me to go out and scout either new locations or new dinner sites. It often means making a new discovery.

And sometimes, because I can't possibly see or taste everything that Santa Fe has to offer, a restaurant or site may well be a Santa Fe mainstay and still be new to me.

Such is the case with my first-time visit to Ristra.

Named for the garlands of dried red chiles that hang from the portals of Santa Fe homes, the restaurant is tucked into a lovely, modest adobe home at 548 Agua Fria Street, just west of Our Lady of Guadalupe church.

Warmly welcomed by owner Eric Lamalle, I sit inside and pour over the menu while staff hustled in the background setting up for the evening's dinner. Lamelle speaks with pride about both the menu and his executive chef, Xavier Grenet, who worked in Paris under Chef Joel Robuchon, one of the world's most celebrated chefs. While Robuchon is a master of Japanese-inspired French cuisine, Grenet specializes in what Lamalle calls a "new American cuisine with Southwestern and French influences."

So if you're seeking a venue for a rehearsal dinner or Friday night Welcome Dinner for up to 80 plus out-of-town guests on the vine-covered patio in spring, summer or fall, or a more intimate dinner inside in the winter, give Eric a call at 505.982.8608. He will be happy to customize a special menu quite reasonably for your event, complete with appetizers (try the Black Mediterranean Mussels with chipotle), a choice of entrees (may I suggest the Crispy King Salmon or Grilled Elk Tenderloin), seasonal wines and dessert.

For more menu ideas, visit www.ristrarestaurant.com

At ART & SOUL, ninety percent of our clients come from outside the state of New Mexico to be married in Santa Fe. That means we need to be their ears and eyes in the City Different.

Want us to be *your* eyes and ears? Do you live out of state and want us to visit a venue you've been considering for your ceremony or reception? Have camera, will travel... Call us today!

Dream Wedding for a Deserving Couple

2009-05-12T12:39:00.003-06:00

I've just been contacted by a national cable television program and have I got a deal for you!

Do you know of a couple who are planning on getting married or would like to marry Summer or Fall of 2009 who really DESERVE an amazing wedding but cannot afford it in these tough economic times?

They are seeking to cast inspirational couples for their next season!

Here's what they say...

Teachers, real-life heroes, survivors, volunteers, social workers, charity workers, etc. … we want to hear from you!

If you had to downgrade or delay your wedding plans due to job loss, injury, illness or deployment … we want to hear from you!

If you know of a couple who is so busy helping others they deserve someone to help them out … we want to hear from you – Nominate someone today!

Send a brief paragraph about your situation, or another couple's situation, the current wedding budget, a recent photo of the couple (in .jpg format), and your contact information to me, cynthea (at) artandsoulvents.com. I'd love to help you get your dream wedding! Please respond by May 20^th, 2009.

More wedding trends for 2009

2009-01-30T16:24:00.003-07:00

From Beverly Clark's "Hospitality Newsletter," Jan 2009, Vol.2, Issue 1 comes some tried-and-true (outdoor weddings, of course)... and some things old (vintage inspired) and new...

Outdoor Weddings
Barns, wineries, vineyards, backyards, hilltops with a view. . . Tent weddings are all the rage! Outdoor settings can be personalized to reflect a spirited and casual vibe, or totally elegant. The décor possibilities are endless.

Vintage Inspired
It's the ultimate in recycling - from vintage cake toppers to vases and pottery for your centerpieces to completely mis-matched vintage china settings, a return to "all things old" makes for a beautiful and relaxed ambience. If the mother or grandmother's wedding dress is not a viable option, have it re-created from a picture!

Local Farm Produce, Eggs and Meats
From pesticide-free flowers to organic menus, local farms are the best place for everything fresh and abundant. When the Chef goes shopping, make sure he wears his chef's jacket so the locals can see he supports the community. Nice to list the name of the farm on your menus as well. . .

Something that Creates a "Buzz"
Personal and whimsical touches add just the perfect "something extra" that brides are looking for. Have just one unexpected thing that guests will talk about for decades to come - incorporating their grandmother's best recipe as part of the menu, a champagne station in the restroom, a whimsical favor from the city in which the bride & groom met, or forgoing favors and making charity donations. Even in the most sophisticated of events, just one whimsical touch will get guests talking and give them something to remember.

Color Combos & Patterns!
One of everyone's favorite things to speculate on!

This year waves goodbye to pastels and hello to rich colors like navy, orange with dark ruby reds, plum, and amber.

Chocolate brown is still a great color to mix with, however basic black is coming back strong – brown has had the spotlight for too long! The ever sophisticated black comes on strong in 2009, and carries through into flowers, cakes and accent colors (your bridesmaids will thank you forever for this one if they get to wear a "little black dress"!)
Bronzes and coppers are the metallic of choice this year.
For people looking for a color that reflects a fresh, new beginning, beautiful bright greens make a great splash. Especially fun if paired with other "brights" – robin's egg blue, bright yellow or orange.
Patterns everywhere, mixed and matched – linens, bridesmaid's dresses, china. . .Toile, florals, damask, polka dots, even gingham – there's a pattern to fit any mood and style.

Tapas and Sample Stations

Great for sophisticated evening weddings, or when you're short on space for a sit-down dinner.
Also fun for a cocktail hour, creating an "urban lounge" atmosphere.
"Foodies" love tasting bars - every whim granted! Wine and cheese stations will be educational as well if you hire a professional sommelier to provide pairing pointers.
Update the "old standards" with fresh takes on the menus – breathe new life into "South of the Border", "Asian infused" and "Americana"

Ethnic Entertainment
To showcase the different cultural backgrounds of the bride & groom, try one ethnic mix for the cocktail hour and a different one for dinner and dancing

Wedding Logos
Still hot into 2009, graphic elements create a unified look for your wedding stationery, and can be anything from a flower to a bird, to a non-representational graphical element. They may reflect the location of the wedding, the wedding theme, or one of the bride & groom's favorite things.

Libations, Wine Collections, Bar Chefs and Awesome Signature drinks

Wine is still a major focus in 2009 – pair for your client, offer to pour their own collection with a corkage fee (offer to decant as well).
Bar Chefs are all the rage, creating "Signature drinks" from the bride and groom, and creating drink "recipes" that pair beautifully with the menu and incorporate local fresh herbs, produce and purees (yes, produce!) such as a 6-flavor bellini bar with fruit purees (peach, pomegranate) and fresh herbs (mint lavender, fresh flowers).
Champagne bar - pick your favorite bottles of bubbly and don't forget the mixers, such as Chambord, Midori, cranberry juice, and pineapple juice. Guests will have so much fun making their own signature cocktails.
Along with the vintage craze, "vintage" cocktails are back as well. Make sure your bartenders brush up on their "Manhattans" and "Sidecars". . .

Late Night Snacks
Guests need a little "pick-me-up" as the night goes on. . .! Gourmet popcorn or french fries served in brown paper cups or mini Chinese food containers, after dinner cheese boards, tray passed sweets like cheesecake lollipops, mini ice cream sandwiches, mini root beer floats, and warm chocolate chip cookies with milk shots – make it fun and whimsical!

Trends for 2009: Engagement rings

2008-12-31T11:25:00.018-07:00

From msn.com, "Engagement Ring Trends 2008"
According to MSN Shopping's Shannon McCarthy, gem trends for the upcoming engagement season include:

Three-Stone
This style was previously pitched as an anniversary ring with the three stones symbolizing a couple's past, present and future. In recent years, its popularity as an engagement ring has skyrocketed. The romantic symbolism here can't be beat — the sparkling triplets are a testament to the couple's confidence that their union will be a long and happy one. Whether you choose side stones that match the carat weight and shape of the center solitaire, or decide to go with the chic contrast of pear, trillion or princess cuts flanking a round or oval gem, the overall visual impact of the ring will be more spectacular than that of a traditional single stone. And while rubies and sapphires may not always take center stage, they can still be dazzling supporting players.

Eternity Bands
Just as the three-stone ring has morphed from an anniversary-only choice to a popular engagement piece, the sublime round of endless gems known as an eternity ring has come into its own as a particularly meaningful betrothal band. It’s now quite chic to forgo the solitaire altogether and opt for stones that travel around the circumference of the ring, symbolizing a love without beginning or end. Channel and bezel settings keep those sparklers secure, and while white diamonds populate most choices, look for scatterings of deep blue sapphires or crimson rubies to really catch the eye. The band metal of the moment is platinum. Rarer and more durable than gold, it’s also recommended for women sensitive to the alloys used in gold — it’s 90 to 95% pure.
$500 and under
Love for sale? Not exactly, but you can find fabulous bargain baubles to seal the deal. Start with your metals — white gold will give you the look of platinum without the sticker shock. Smaller side diamonds, especially in pave or channel settings snugged into the band, will enhance a main stone that may not be mega, as will bezel-set center stones (just make sure your bezel metal is white). Many diamonds a half-carat and below sport clarity and color superior to their larger-carat cousins, and when you’re choosing cuts, keep in mind that marquis, princess, pear and oval all appear larger than their same-carat round counterparts. Ditching that diamond altogether and going with alternative gemstones can make for a beautiful, and less conventional, rock of ages.

Colored Gemstones
"I know what women want," says McCarthy. "Well, at least when it comes to our engagement rings. We'd like them to both reflect our individual sense of style and pay tribute to our relationship. Classic stones like the diamond solitaire are enduringly popular, but gaining ground is something akin to hue love. Colored stones have transcended trend and are now widely available and quite affordable (especially if we aren't talking colored diamonds). Sapphires, rubies and emeralds are all properly precious stones whose hardness is suitable for this most important piece of jewelry. Less expensive sparklers like garnet and topaz are also used now to dazzling effect. A gorgeous substitute for a canary diamond is the yellow sapphire and try a tourmaline if you’re looking to replicate a pink diamond."
Vintage
Yearning for some good old-fashioned romance? Jewelry designers are crafting engagement rings that echo those your great-grandmother, even your great-great grandmother would've worn. And contemporary brides-to-be are happily going the retro route, embracing a ladylike look that’s at once both delicate and incredibly detailed. Settings are covered with intricate handiwork like carved scrolling, delicate floral and filigree patterns and airy latticework. Stones also reflect an antique aesthetic — cushion, round, pillow and Asscher cuts are classic shapes and their larger facets radiate more fire under less light (this was especially important in the past when the main sources of illumination were candles). Another reason to consider these bygone beauties — the shanks shine with ornate diamond micro-pavé, milgrain beading and intricate engraving for extra overall bling that still radiates pure class.
For more information, visit MSN Shopping.

New ideas for the New Year

2008-12-26T09:29:00.006-07:00

From the Luxurious Wedding Style Report comes news of 160 luxurious wedding bouquet ideas by Seattle wedding flower designer, Kimberly Aurora Kapur and Romantic Flowers.

According to the report, "Bouquet Chic is a must have addition to your wedding book collection. 160 bountiful, creative and chic wedding bouquets fill the pages of Bouquet Chic, which shows us inventive and luxurious wedding bouquet concepts with unexpected floral combinations, color mixtures, texture and shine. Her bouquets are beautiful, different, romantic and startling."

(stylereport@luxuriouswedding.com)

Question from a groom

2008-11-24T10:12:00.006-07:00

Inquiry:

We would like to get married at the end of July or the first weekend in August of 2009. We would really like to get married in Santa Fe outside surrounded by the mountains. Due to the fact that neither of us live there, it makes it difficult to plan a wedding.... we don't even know where to start....Our budget is $10,000. Do you think we can get married in Santa Fe for that amount of money?

ART & SOUL response:

First of all, congratulations on your engagement!

The budget issue is a sticky question. It depends entirely on how many guests you are expecting will attend.

Not wanting to burst your bubble...I'm assuming you are interested in hosting an elegant wedding with great food and beverages, good music and some simple decor in a beautiful location. If so, 10K doesn’t go very far in Santa Fe, for a couple of reasons:

1. You’re looking at the most expensive season to be married in.

In 2009, Santa Fe Opera starts July 3rd and runs through Aug. 29th. SF Opera pushes all hotel room prices up. Spanish Market is the weekend of July 24-26, 2009, which will also push hotel prices up. This is a consideration if you have many guests that will be traveling to Santa Fe for the wedding.
Because of the aforementioned events, there isn't much negotiating room with vendors -- the best vendors in Santa Fe will often have $ minimums and will need to be booked in advance.

2. Site rental costs can be high if you are planning on a wedding site that can accommodate a guest list of more than 50 or so guests.

Sites for 100+ guests are even more challenging if you are working with a smaller budget.
Current wedding research shows that the average wedding costs 27K; we have found that to be true. And this was for weddings in 2006.

3. Monsoon season can occur mid-July through Labor Day. You'll need to have a covering for your guests in case of rain.

The good news it that rain is considered good luck for the married couple! :-)

Here's the reality: There are limited sites in Santa Fe with mountain views. Santa Fe has a wonderful selection of venues and sites, but those with mountain vistas are harder to come by.

Hyde Park Lodge is one of the few that are affordable. But they do not book 2009 dates until Jan. 2nd or so in 2009 and one would need to stand in line at the park to reserve a date for 2009. There are always a dozen or so couples who stand in line right after the New Year to book the lodge. They don’t book any dates for 2009 until after the 1st of the year, because they are part of the national park system. So another question to ask those who are planning a destination wedding, is...Do you have any family in New Mexico that could stand in line for you after the New Years?

Consider setting a wedding date in the off-season

Considering an off-season date for your wedding is something you may want to think about. May (before Memorial Day weekend) is a beautiful time for weddings and hotel rooms and site fees might be a tad more affordable. Also consider the last half of October (after Balloon Fiesta), which is lovely in New Mexico.

March, April and November of course, are good to consider if you'd like to be able to do some price negotiating.

I hope this helps!

A whirlwind of a summer

2008-08-28T14:42:00.007-06:00

Photographer Vlad Chaloupka shared photos of a wedding we all worked on together at the Hacienda Antigua B&B in Albuquerque. Hacienda Antigua is one of Albuquerque' best secrets. Photographer Vlad did an absolutely stunning job of telling this couple's love story on their wedding day.

More photos of Elaina and Matt can be viewed at vlad's blog.

Matt and Elaina's slideshow.

ART & SOUL would like to thank Tonya at Tiger Lily Floral for the wonderful job on the florals--simple, yet so lovely; Michael Chapdelaine for his awesome guitar at the ceremony (he makes it seem so effortless) and Los Paisanos for so thoroughly entertaining the guests during cocktails and dinner.

City Treats Catering served the meal family style. I have never witnessed such hard-working staff at the end of the night when the skies opened up and it didn't just rain... it poured... and poured. Thank you to all for your tireless service to a wonderful couple.

It is always such a privilege to be part of a couple's most special day.

Congratulations to the beautiful bride Elaina, and her handsome husband Matt.

Brides, get thee to the post office

2008-02-12T10:06:00.000-07:00

Price Of Postage Stamps Rising Again
Increase To Begin May 12

POSTED: 3:09 pm EST February 11, 2008
UPDATED: 10:41 pm EST February 11, 2008

WASHINGTON -- Mailing a letter will soon cost a penny more.

The cost of a first-class stamp will rise to 42 cents starting May 12, the U.S. Postal Service said Monday.

According to the U.S. Postal Service, the price of the Forever stamp will go up at the same time, meaning those stamps can still be purchased for 41 cents but will remain good for first-class postage after the rate increase takes effect.

The post office has sold 5 billion Forever stamps since they were introduced last April and plans to have an additional 5 billion in stock to meet the expected demand before the May price change, the agency said.

The charge for other services, such as advertising mail, periodicals, packages special services will also change. Changes in the price for Priority Mail and Express Mail will be announced later, the agency said.

www.usps.com

Score One for the Aliens

2008-01-02T16:39:00.000-07:00

New Mexico's 'Passport to Our World & Beyond' Float Wins Coveted Grand Marshal's Trophy in 2008 Tournament of Roses® Parade

Pasadena, CA (Vocus) January 2, 2008 -- More than one million spectators lining Colorado Blvd. and millions more watching around the world were treated to the New Mexico Tourism Department's "Passport to Our World & Beyond" float, winner of the coveted Grand Marshal's Trophy in the 119th Tournament of Roses® Parade.

The Grand Marshal's Trophy is given "for excellence in creative concept and design" and is one of the top three awards given each year. It is also the first award earned by the State of New Mexico in only its second appearance in the Tournament of Roses® Parade.

"The Land of Enchantment is leading the way into the final Frontier, and New Mexico welcomes its visitors to share in the bold new adventure"

--- Michael Cerletti, New Mexico Secretary of the Tourism Department

The space creatures on the float, created in crushed split peas, flew through clouds of crisp white coconut as they maneuvered around colorful planets of hot pink, orange, and purple roses and carnations. The spacecraft of shimmering silverleaf protea had accents of gray poppy seeds and white coconut flakes. The space port, decorated in yellow strawflower and button mums, soared to a height of 24 feet over gardens of 50,000 green roses including Jade, Limbo and Super Green. The space craft rocked from side to side as blasts of carbon dioxide rose from the rear of the craft. Whimsical music added to the fun.

ART & SOUL Weddings and Events would like to thank Ballantines PR for the above quotes.

Ballantines PR http://www.ballantinespr.com/

http://www.newmexico.gov/ [New Mexico Tourism]

Good things come in small packages

2007-12-26T14:25:00.000-07:00

The month of December, New Years Eve and Valentines Day are the three most popular times for “popping the question.”

So to all who became engaged this month, or who anticipate setting a date within the next month or two, let me be the first to say… CONGRATULATIONS!!

It’s an exciting time, planning a wedding. It’s also full of stress and often overwhelming for the uninitiated.

Here are just a few of the many REAL questions potential clients call ART & SOUL Weddings and Events looking for answers to…

* How much is my wedding going to cost?
* How much do you guys charge to plan a wedding?
* I have a tight budget for the wedding. What are some things I can do to make my dollars stretch the farthest?
* What are the best sites for having an outdoor ceremony?
* Do you know of any Native American flutists who can play for my ceremony? How about a flamenco guitarist for the cocktail hour?
* Which photographer will give me the best value?
* I don’t need a wedding planner, I want to plan the wedding myself. Can you just help me find a place to have the reception that doesn't cost an arm and a leg?
* Do you plan weddings in Las Vegas?
* I want a small wedding at a private estate. Do you know of any gorgeous estates in Santa Fe where my fiancé and I can be married?
* How can I find the florist who will give me the biggest bang for my buck?
* The florist wants to charge me $250 for my bridal bouquet. How can flowers cost that much?
* Why does a “Day of” Wedding Coordinator cost so dang much, and is it worth it?!?

In the weeks to come, I’d like to address each of these queries and more. Feel free to email me with your own questions. Send your questions to cynthea(at)artandsoulevents.com

Merry Cakemas!

2007-12-20T13:09:00.000-07:00

I received this joyful holiday greeting yesterday from the Cake Queen of Santa Fe, Maggie Faralla. Too perfect not to share with you!

Ms. Mags, as she calls herself, can be reached at 505-980-1416, for all you 2008 brides. Maggie is an artiste extraordinaire.

And to all visitors to ART & SOUL Weddings and Events, we thank you for your business in 2007. As always, it is a privilege to serve you. Happy Holidays and Safe Travels to ALL and MERRY CAKEMAS!!

Whose Wedding is it Anyway?!?

2007-12-05T12:29:00.000-07:00

I have acquaintances in the wedding industry who have been the featured wedding planners on the series of nuptial dramas, "Whose Wedding is it Anyway?"-- Baltimore planner Linnyette Richardson, "Premier Event Management" and Mark Kingsdorf, owner of Philadelphia-based "The Queen of Hearts."

Both Linnyette and Mark have bemoaned the heavy editing that goes on and how often the wedding they planned and coordinated is so vastly different than the time-manipulated/drama-spun versions they eventually view on WWIIA.

Which leads me to today's topic: "You, Me and MTV: Shows Influence Event Clients"

The following is taken from a recent article of the same name in Special Events Magazine, © 2007 Penton Media Inc. http://specialevents.com/weddings/TV_shows_influence_event_clients/

Clients "absolutely" base their expectations for their event on TV shows, says Chicago's Frank Andonoplas, MBC, head of Frank Event Design. Particularly popular among his wedding clientele are the programs "Whose Wedding Is It Anyway," "Platinum Weddings," "Bridezillas" and "the one-timers like 'In Style Celebrity Weddings,' which appear once a year," he explains.

Sheldon Sloan, director of sales with South San Francisco-based Melons Catering, notes that even shows not directly based on special events can have influence. "'Dancing with the Stars' seems to have renewed interest in ballroom dancing," he says. "All things Hollywood are popular, from celebrity look-alikes to red carpets and so on." The bar and bat mitzvah market in particular goes for themes based on reality shows and hit movies, he says. Carolyn Arthurs, founder of All About Events with offices in New Orleans and Los Angeles, has appeared on the MTV phenomenon "My Super Sweet 16" and says, "I have noticed that the younger clients for bat mitzvahs, bar mitzvahs and Sweet 16s are often referencing what they've seen on the show."

How realistic is this?

The problem with the event-based shows in particular, planners agree, is they set unrealistic expectations about budgets. "Many do not show the price tag associated with the over-the-top" events, Andonoplas notes.

Another quarrel planners have with event-based reality shows in particular is how the editing distorts reality. "I have to let [clients] know that the order of certain things and the way that things are shot will affect their perception of the event," [Carolyn] Arthurs explains. "From being a part of MTV's reality show as well as working with another show on TLC, I know that what they say and what's really happening are drastically different."

On top of that, TV shows sometimes prove the adage that a little learning is a dangerous thing. "I blame [TV cook] Rachel Ray for teaching people to open cans and use pre-grated cheese--if you can call it cheese," grouses Lee Gregory, head of San Francisco-based McCall Catering. "I might blame the Food Network for creating a community of people who think they are food experts. But all they really do is watch other people cook."

Beyond that, though, Andonoplas says he doesn't find that the shows lead clients to make consistently outrageous requests. "If what [the clients] want is not affordable, not realistic for space, or just plain not going to happen in Chicago, I always try to find an alternative," he says.

Indeed, Andonoplas himself has his Tivo DVR "set for 'bride,' 'wedding' and 'weddings' so I can see what is out there," he says.

The one program several social planners say they would banish from the airways if they could: "Bridezillas," which documents the outbursts of bratty brides. "I hate that they show all that can go wrong in an event," Arthurs says. "That makes brides expect the worst and panic for no reason."

Your job must be so much FUN!!

Andonoplas' other pet peeve: TV shows that make the job of a planner look easy. "There was a series that died quickly, called the 'Wedding Belles,' about a team of three sisters who ran a one-stop ceremony/reception/we-can-do-it-all-from-catering-to-flowers-type facility," he says. "When they were not sleeping with the vendors and dealing with their own baggage, it was, again, completely unrealistic. They don't show how hard it really is to do what we do."

Finally, a legacy from planner shows that Andonoplas could do without: "The daily call I get--seriously--for someone wanting me to 'take them under my wing' and teach them how to do this because it looks like fun. They need to stop making this look like a glamour job. Again, editing!"

Note from Cynthea:

From this planner's point-of-view, programs like WWIIA are fun, but not realistic. And they're not particularly inspiring anymore. They used to be filled with ideas, like Mark's Pirate wedding. Now I'm seeing rehashing old ideas and spinning even more drama.

And please! Think twice before calling me and telling me your DREAAAAAAAAAAAM is to be a wedding planner, because it looks like so much fun. Even with the drama, the TV shows often portray wedding planners as spending the majority of their time picking out flowers, driving around in a brand new SUV and going to cake tastings. That's about 2 percent of my job (and I don't have a new SUV, BTW). The majority of my time is spent responding to email inquiries; writing proposals; trying to find an available site that is both charming AND affordable on short notice; hammering out budgets; paying bills; explaining to the bride who insists for her outdoor wedding that she doesn't need a tent as a back-up plan, that it DOES rain in New Mexico; putting out fires; straightening out messed up room reservations at lodging establishments and managing clients' expectations.

That's Reality-- not the TV shows!

Destination Weddings Popular for Second Marriages

2007-11-29T23:45:00.000-07:00

I was a bit taken aback when I found myself quoted recently in a write up in divorce360.com, a Beta version of a new online community devoted to life after divorce. The article, written by Victor Greto, featured a recent Santa Fe destination wedding that ART & SOUL planned for New Jersey couple, Greg Hecker and Valerie Smith.

We're not accustomed to being quoted in media with the word divorce in the title! But after all, the D word is followed by 360, so it's clearly aimed at readers looking to come full circle.

For more about Greg and Valerie's wedding and the trend of destination weddings for second marriages, see the article at

www.divorce360.com/articles/61/trend-destination-weddings.aspx?page=1

Media attention

2007-09-26T09:37:00.001-06:00

Received the premier edition of San Diego Magazine's "Exquisite Weddings." What a gorgeous periodical!

Each month Exquisite Weddings will feature one domestic Destination Wedding site. The premier edition featured our own Land of Enchantment as an exquisite locale for a destination wedding. Yours truly was a content provider for the article:

www.exquisiteweddings.info/media/Exquisite-Weddings/Fall-Winter-2007/New-Mexico/

Here's an excerpt:

"“Often, when couples thank their guests with a toast,” says [Cynthea] Kinnaman, “they open with ‘We wanted to share the desert with you.’ ” Unlike weddings in metropolitan areas, in New Mexico an entire town can get caught up in the joy. Kinnaman describes one of her favorite moments: “The doors of the church are thrown open and the mariachis meet the bride and groom as they exit. Then they lead the couple through the streets to the reception. Everyone stops and watches. For a moment they are part of the celebration. And the bride and groom get to be at the center of the town’s attention. I get goose bumps every time.”

Play with colo(u)r

2007-09-25T09:49:00.000-06:00

Here's a fun site for anyone who loves to play with color:

http://www.colourlovers.com/

COLOURlovers™ is a resource that monitors and influences color trends. COLOURlovers gives the people who use color - whether for ad campaigns,product design, or in architectural specification - a place to check out a world of color, compare color palettes, submit news and comments, and read color related articles and interviews.

check out this link for some rich autumn inspiration:

www.colourlovers.com/blog/2007/09/23/seasonal-color-inspiration-autumn/

Yummmmmmmm...........

Personalize your wedding space

2007-09-13T20:19:00.001-06:00

You don't have to be an artist to create this beautiful wall. The wonderful folks at Wonderful Graffiti have developed a product that even the most DIY (Do-It-Yourself) challenged among us can use with expert results.

Whether you want to create your own custom design for the doors to your reception, add your mongram to a dance floor, or customize your vintage limousine... you'll find plenty of inspiration at http://www.wonderfulgraffitiwedding.com/

What's Graffiti?

Wonderful Graffiti is very thin pieces of matte vinyl that look "printed" when applied to most smooth surfaces.
Your entire wedding Graffiti design arrives on one sheet of transfer paper.
Just tape the transfer paper into place, burnish it down and peel it away.
Only the individual letters and graphic elements remain.
Wonderful Graffiti removes quickly, and won't harm underlying surfaces.

Fab new book by DIY guru Khris Cochran

2007-09-06T10:27:00.000-06:00

I love this girl!! Californian Crafting Queen, Khris Cochran, recently received word that her long-awaited DIY masterpiece for the do-it-yourselfers, titled none other than "The DIY Bride" hits the shelves January 2008. You can pre-order the book now through Amazon.

While you're waiting for your book to arrive, join Khris at www.diybride.com for her latest craft project: Chalkboard Votives.

Join DIY Brides today for free acces to tips, resources and how-to instructions to the bride who love to craft and create one-of-a-kind items for a special one-of-a-kind wedding. There's even an online forum for tips from other DIY brides!

On the subject of children at weddings

2007-08-30T15:44:00.001-06:00

The subject of kids or no kids at wedding receptions came up on a wedding planners' national discussion board that I make frequent contributions to. Although I totally understand when a bride and groom choose to hold an "Adults Only" reception, I also love the weddings where children are included.

ART & SOUL recently was "Day of" Coordinator for a large 550 guest wedding that included children that were in the wedding party. Following the bride' Princess theme, ART & SOUL decorated and staffed a special area for the kids marked by balloons. Of course with the Princess theme, the girls made out best w/ princess wands, tiaras, and jeweled toy high heels that they decorated themselves. The boys had Hot Wheels and Spiderman stickers to affix to poster paper; together the group blew bubbles during the toasts and enjoyed color-coordinated candies, which we told the parents were "FOR KIDS ONLY!"

Cafe au lait and copper

2007-08-28T16:37:00.000-06:00

Thursday, August 23rd was the date for a wonderfully sweet and intimate mid-week wedding in Santa Fe. Client chose the cafe au lait lamour linens as her predominant color for the reception. ART & SOUL Weddings and Events custom-made a 21 ft. copper satin runner to pull the look together, which consisted of 3 six foot tables arranged end to end. Jon of Canyon Road Flowers added the wonderful elements of floating candles, cherry brandy roses and parakeet flowers. While ART & SOUL waits for the fabulous photos from professional photographer Ginger Russell, we'll post non-pro photos to whet your appetite.

A Great Santa Fe Site

2007-08-12T15:11:00.000-06:00

The Atrium at the Museum of International Folk Art (MOIFA) in Santa Fe was the site chosen by a Chicago couple w/ New Mexico roots for their wedding reception, following a ceremony at the historic Santuaro de Guadalupe. What a special venue! The whimsically artistic MOIFA was the perfect location for this couple, both arts administrators in the Windy City. Guests were invited to join docent-led tours of several of the galleries before convening in the Atrium for pre-dinner appetizers.

The bride and groom chose Santa Fe florist Carol Rose of Amanda's Flowers to complement their color scheme of deep red and poppy (a softer shade of orange), which she did w/ a minimalist approach that delightfully complemented the simple beauty of the Atrium.

Color trends

2007-08-08T09:09:00.000-06:00

Those of you who know me, know I've been preaching color in weddings, especially receptions, for years. But what I'm seeing since last year and expanding on this year w/ my brides are some beautiful shades in the yellows and oranges. Colors like persimmon, mango and saffron...

In June, ART & SOUL helped a Florida bride and groom have a big time w/ a ceremony and reception at the Club at Las Campanas followed by an afterparty at the Hotel Eldorado, with all events punctuated by scads and scads (literally hundreds and hundreds) of Big Fun roses, huge saucer-sized roses in varigated peachy pinks and yellows. Watch for photos, I promise to bring the website up to date w/ the weddings of 2007.

Until then, photos can be viewed in the Markow/deJesus published album on www.insightfoto.com

An upcoming courtyard wedding will utilize Mango and Treasure calla lilies.

The color saffron, a rich, deep golden yellow inspired by Indian silks is another shade ART & SOUL has been asked to explore for an autumn wedding.

Other trends we're seeing is mixing metals (copper and pewter, silver and gold) and as always... texture, texture, texture, whether in hobnail votives, a fabulous dupioni silk or using a damask overlay over a silk lamour.

Big news according to Premier Bride Magazine and consultants throughout the country...cool grey is hot, hot, hot.

A PERFECT FIT

2007-08-07T12:51:00.000-06:00

Trash the Dress teams up with Brides Against Breast Cancer

This comes from Louisiana-based documentary photographer marc eric, the brains behind the creative concept, “Trash the Dress.” (http://www.trashthedress.com/)

As m.e. says, “it’s about creation, not destruction.”

Warning—this is long, but well worth the read for brides.

Says marc eric: “I’m sure anyone who has followed TTD [Trash the Dress] has seen a fair share of posts asking why Brides don’t donate their dresses to a charitable cause, such as www.bridesagainstbreastcancer.com. With the fanfare that the organization is receiving on TTD, I decided that maybe we should learn more about them, and I’m glad I did.

Since we at TTD are interested in creating memories- not destroying them, I was excited to learn that their mission is very similar, in fact- they own the website www.makingmemories.org.

Says marc eric: "This is truly a great organization, and I now see why the supporters are passionate about it.For those who aren’t familiar with the organization, you should check out their “about us” page as soon as possible. Basically, they sell donated wedding dresses at huge gatherings across the country- then use the money to help terminally ill cancer patients fulfill their wishes. This description comes from their website:"

'It is our intention to “make a difference” in the lives of those suffering from this devastating disease. Our wish-granting service helps put the realities of this terminal illness aside, if just for a few days, while providing the opportunity for a family to spend quality time together. Our hope is that every metastatic breast cancer patient will be able to pass from this world comforted with the joy of having left his or her family a final beautiful memory—something the family will look back on and remember for a lifetime.'

This organization is making a powerful difference in people’s lives, and we want to help any way we can. I asked Fran what she thought about some of the suggestions we’ve received, such as donating dresses to the organization after a TTD photoshoot (assuming that the dress only saw minimal exposure to water or dirt). I admitted that I almost felt like doing so would be like offering something of no value to her organization (after all, it was used for a Trash the Dress session- why would anyone want that, right?). Fran assured me that many of the dresses they receive are fairly dirty upon receipt- from wine, food, and dirt stains. She told me that 90% of the dresses clean with no signs that the stains ever existed. The only time a dress can’t be recovered is if the fabric or beading is scratched- but she said they have a use for those dresses as well. If the dress is beyond repair, the fabric can be used to make quilts, which also bring in revenue for the organization. Fran highly recommends that Brides send in their dresses, even after a TTD shoot, if she is willing to part with it."

"Of course, in addition to letting TTD brides know about this option, there are many more ways we can help. They take monetary donations. They accept donations of all sorts- including dresses, jewelry, and other items. Even if you follow the blog, but aren’t interested in a TTD shoot- we highly recommend that you consider donating your dress if you don’t have plans to use it as a family heirloom."

What To Do with Your Dress When the Weddings Over? Two Great Options

2007-08-05T15:43:00.000-06:00

The photography of fellow wedding professional, Floridian Scarlett Lillian, was featured recently in a fun article showcasing a trend in photography that emerged last year, called “Trash the Dress.”

www.jacksonville.com/tu-online/stories/070907/lif_182783585.shtml

The idea is the brainchild of photojournalist marc eric, www.TrashtheDress.com, Trash the Dress celebrates fresh ideas, fun photography and out-of-the-box thinking.

Of course the idea is not for everyone, in which case you have the option of donating your dress to a most worthy cause: Brides Against Breast Cancer
www.makingmemories.org/brides_against_breast_cancer.html

How To Donate Your Gown

You can make dreams come true! The gift of your wedding gown helps Making Memories fulfill wishes for terminal breast cancer patients and makes a new bride's special day even more meaningful. Donations may be made during any “Brides Against Breast Cancer” event or sent directly to:

Making Memories Breast Cancer Foundation
12708 SE Stephens Street
Portland, OR 97233.

NOTE: This address is for mailed donations only, for information on dropping off or delivering a donation please call 503-829-4486.

Donations from bridal shops or manufacturers wishing to make a donation when we are in your area may send an email to fran@makingmemories.org or call (503) 829-4486

Be sure when sending your gown to Making Memories to please include a return address inside the package to ensure you receive a donation receipt. If possible, an additional $10 donation will help with the cost of preparing your dress for sale and will be greatly appreciated.

We also accept complete sets of bridesmaid dresses, veils, slips, shoes, mother’s dresses and flower girl gowns. Other items specific to weddings, including jewelry, books, ring pillows, wedding purses, etcetera are gladly received.

My blog was lost in cyberspace

2007-05-22T11:29:00.000-06:00

Oh dear... Almost gave up on getting access to my old blog! Seems eblogger is doing away with the old blogs and failing to inform its users...

After several months of searching, I was finally successful today in locating my now hopelessly outdated blog. Now that I can access it again, I promise to be more faithful.

Just a few highlights since my last entry:

In January, yours truly became secretary of the New Mexico Wedding Professionals. I'm loving being part of the leadership of this great organization.
For more about NMWP, go to http://www.nmwp.com

Emmy Carlson, a senior at the University of Wisconsin-Stout at Menomonie, has joined ART & SOUL Weddings and Events as an intern for the summer of 2007. A talented Hospitality & Tourism major, Emmy brings strong creative and planning skills to ART & SOUL.

In April, ASWE had the privilege of coordinating the 2nd Annual Equality Ball Benefit Gala and Silent Auction. What a great organization! And many thanks to Chocolate Amor who provided their chocolate fountain and professional staffing. Kudos to Emily and Wendy for being the hit of the event and for feeding our passion for chocolate. To hire Chocolate Amor for your next event, go to http://www.chocolateamor.com/ and tell them Cynthea sent you!

HAPPY NEW YEAR... and it snowed and snowed and snowed

2007-01-03T18:49:00.000-07:00

Stuck in Santa Fe for three days until snow stopped falling and the interstates were opened. Santa Fe was a winter wonderland, as beautiful as I have ever seen The City Different.

Yeah me!! Made it through the holidays and another wedding with one of Maggie's Cakes (cake artist supreme Maggie Farralla) and still managed to show a weight loss of 14 pounds total.

Yay me!! Yay South Beach!!

Dawn Sky, Christmas Eve morning

2006-12-25T08:58:00.000-07:00

Another gorgeous sunrise from our front yard in the East Mtns.

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from ART & SOUL Weddings and Events!

Los Primos...Albuquerque's Best

2006-12-01T17:49:00.000-07:00

Well, they used to be one of NM's best kept secrets...until now.

A BIG CONGRATS to my favorite New Mexican musicians, Los Primos, who were voted BEST MARIACHI by their growing legion of fans and honored last night by Albuquerque the Magazine at the big "Best of Albuquerque 2006" bash. What a thrill to see them take the stage, winning even more fans and attracting couples to the dance floor who couldn't resist their festive and romantic Spanish folk songs and their eclectic assortment of golden oldies including "Sleepwalk" and their always winning take on Richie Valens golden oldie "Donna" and "In the Still of the Night."

I am so proud of these guys!!

Left to right: Sol Muniz, Juan Lucero, Felipe Ruibal and Carlos Chavez. Photography by Jones Artistic Imaging.

For more about Los Primos, where they're performing, and for musical downloads, go to http://www.theserenata.com

My Space...Daughter in college says get with it mom...

2006-10-13T17:43:00.000-06:00

So I did.

www.myspace.com/newmexicoweddings

Check me out!

Shedding the excess me

2006-10-12T18:48:00.000-06:00

Have lost 7 pounds on the South Beach Diet. Would love a Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Blizzard. Instead, I opt to splurge on a cup of No-Fat/No-sugar Banana Cream Pudding. The book says I'm allowed a 1/2 cup serving... but that's not doing it for me...

Would love to hear from any brides who are committed to SB. I need to commiserate.

And now it's (gulp) the last day of September

2006-09-30T09:05:00.000-06:00

Yikes! The summer flew by. In recent months, ART & SOUL helped fourteen couples "tie the knot" and one couple celebrate their Indiana ceremony w/ a New Mexico reception. Watch for many of those weddings to be posted in our wedding gallery at ArtandSoulEvents.com > Weddings > Gallery.

Received a fun-spirited reprimand from fellow coordinator, Kelly McWilliams (Weddings by Socialites based in Cape Coral, FL), for not updating my blog since June. What can I say Kelly, we've been busy!!

ART & SOUL Weddings and Events (ASWE) would like to thank Donna Olmstead at the ABQ Journal for featuring ASWE in the Boomer edition of last Sunday's Albuquerque Journal, and giving me a reality check with the article's attached photo. After doing a doubletake (that's me?!? overindulging in my bride's wedding cakes and the fabulous food of the great caterers we work with?!?) I went on the South Beach Diet, met w/ a nutritionist and commited to getting back in shape for my 2007 weddings. Am happy to report I'm on day six of the SBD...and will share progress as I shed the excess "me."

And now it's June

2006-06-08T09:16:00.000-06:00

ART & SOUL helped another couple wed this past weekend in Santa Fe. Photographer Brett Butterstein has already posted the amazing photos on his website.

Go to www.brettbuttersteinphotography.com > FEATURED WEDDINGS > Judy & Andrew

and now it's May...

2006-05-11T08:18:00.000-06:00

No flowers, just wind. Harsh New Mexico howling wind.

In the meantime, check out the recent addition of 2005 weddings to the wedding gallery on my website at www.artandsoulevents.com > weddings > gallery.

Party Girl of the Year Award goes to bride Holly, shown here in the latter hours of her Hyde Park Lodge wedding where she tied the knot with her fiance Mike.

Photography by Ben Chrisman.

April snows bring May...?

2006-04-29T15:47:00.000-06:00

New Mexico is suffering from a very severe drought this year, so the snow we received last night was certainly welcome, but come on...it's almost May!>?!

Snow on South Mountain, April 29th

Santa Fe wedding

2006-04-29T12:31:00.000-06:00

Recent photos of a Santa Fe wedding with ART & SOUL. Photography by Jones Artistic Imaging. Ceremony site: Loretto Chapel.

Toast to Kimi and Rod

2006-03-04T08:39:00.000-07:00

ART & SOUL helped another couple tie the Knot one week ago in Santa Fe.

This Philadelphia couple chose the weekend of Feb. 24-25th to exchange their vows and celebrate with friends and family, solely because those were the dates of Santa Fe's ART FEAST.

Kimi and Rod wanted to forgo the traditional rehearsal dinner, in favor of riding the Art Feast Shuttle with the wedding party to taste the visual and culinary delights of the galleries and contributing caterers around the plaza and on Canyon Road.

New Wedding Stamps

2006-02-05T17:08:00.000-07:00

Coming to your local post office in March for your Spring and Summer wedding invitation mailings.

Lavender for 1 oz. invites
Sage green for 2 oz. invites

3/1/06--Update. These stamps are sold/packaged together. The 2 oz. is for the invitation and the 1 oz. is meant to be put on RSVPS. Personally, I think it would have been smarter for the USPS to have sold separately; would have been easier for the consumer. But then what do I know?!?

Just be prepared to purchase together. And for brides mailing standard weight invitation, you're out of luck. You can't purchase the 1 oz. by themselves.

USPS--bad call :-(

Middle-aged White Guys plus Gail

2006-01-23T19:11:00.000-07:00

The Gail Gordon Group, New Mexico's hottest new blues band. See them soon at a blues club near you. Festival gigs coming up too. I'm waiting for a higher resolution photo, before I tell you which one of the middle-aged white guys is my sweet husband. BTW, he plays a mean Fender Strat.

Coyote Crossing

2006-01-21T19:31:00.000-07:00

Husband heard neighbor dogs barking like crazy, so he went to the bay window late this afternoon...two coyotes were trotting through our front yard. He was able to capture a photo of the second one.

Drama in the New Mexican sky

2006-01-18T17:42:00.000-07:00

Darling husband took this last week with my little digital. Note to self: DH deserves a professional digi camera for his birthday. Is that a UFO?!?

This evening's sun setting, Edgewood, NM

From M&Ms to Altman

2006-01-15T06:59:00.000-07:00

How's that for a subject change..

Just heard on news this morning (and confirmed by googling) that Robert Altman is producing a movie written by my beloved home-town boy Garrison Keiller. Evidently it's a [satirical? my word] look at "at what goes on backstage during the last broadcast of America's most celebrated radio show [A Prairie Home Companion], where singing cowboys Dusty and Lefty, a country music siren (played by Meryl Streep), and a host of others hold court," according to www.imdb.com. Who better to poke fun behind-the-scenes of contemporary Americana without any sentimentality than Robert Altman.

Not wild about the other cast of characters (I'm not a Harrelson fan, and I take or leave Lindsay Lohan), but Streep, Lily Tomlin and Robin Williams should be a hoot.

Sort of a Hollywood makes fun of Scandinavians with some East Coast wit tossed in for bite?!?

Feel free to register your divergent opinions. I'm sure you're thinking them already. Ha! I love blogs!

21 Colors of M&Ms

2006-01-13T03:45:00.000-07:00

Here's a fun idea: M&Ms in your wedding colors.

Got a red and silver theme going? Put out clear glass bowls of red and silver M&Ms.

Spring wedding with pink and dark pink? You can do that too; they'll even custom print them with your names.

http://shop2.mms.com/21colors/index.asp

Cigar Bars: Wedding Reception Trend

2006-01-11T05:28:00.001-07:00

OK, this one's been around for a couple of years but is still gaining ground.

What's a good resource for cigars? The uninitiated would say Thompson's.

Darling husband has a different opinion. He corresponds reguarly with his old work buddy Bruce, from Racine WI, about various topics, including cigars. The subject of Thompson's came up.

PLEASE DON'T FLAME ME! The following opinion comes from a Cigar Guy!!

Bruce says...

IMHO.......

Thompson sells a few premium cigars at very high prices, but it seems to me that most of their cigars are very low-mid range cigars that they tout as super premium brands with prices to match. In reality they are glorified versions of what you'll find at the corner bar or at a gas station. I think most of their business comes from new smokers who know very little about the industry and what is quality and what is hype.

My 2nd favorite is Famous Cigars or Famous Smoke Shop out East. They have a great web site (www.famous-smoke.com) and I have talked to these people in person. A good place to do biz with if I need to.

My fav is Mike's Cigars (www.mikescigars.com) in Kane Harbor Florida. They have the best deals on QUALITY stuff. They do not sell the low budget psuedo-boutique crap that Thompson sells. Customer service is second to none. Definately get on their mailing list for their monthly catalog.

They have a house brand called "Old Fashioned" that are Macanudo / Partagas / Hoyo de Monterray seconds that are a killer value. They would rate in the mid-high 80's in a Cigar Afficionado tasting I bet.

Some of my favorite brands there are (not in order):

Fonseca, Licenciados , El Rey Del Mundo , Punch (Puro's) , Hoyo De Monterray / La Gloria Cubana (Serie R, Lusitania (great cheap brand), San Louis Rey, Diamond Crown, Partagas....

Macanudo is a huge brand, but to me they have a nasty mineral taste that I don't like, but that is my taste preference.

Some day I will smoke a Fuente Opus X.

If you need anymore help with cigars, just ask....

Note from Cynthea: well there you have it! Cigar Guy's Humble Opinion

Great wedding tip

2006-01-09T18:10:00.000-07:00

Was on the phone today with my dear consultant friend Mark Kingsdorf from Philadelphia, owner of The Queen of Hearts Wedding Consultants (how cute is that?!?) and he shared a great organizational tip for brides that I wanted to pass along.

Get two file boxes (the fold-out kind with cut-out handles and lids) from Office Max, Staples, etc. Mark one "Ceremony" and the other "Reception." Store your DIY program projects, vow readings, and other ceremony items in the first box. Store your toasting flutes, cake knife and server, guest book and other reception items in the second. Of course, if you've got lots of votives, candles, etc, you'll need to create a Reception II box. Makes it easy to identify for carrying to your site on your wedding day and you won't have odd size boxes for packing.

Watch for Mark (www.qohweddings.com) on the Style Network's "Whose Wedding is it Anyway?" He'll be the featured wedding planner on an early April program.

Thanks Mark! Now if we can just get you to take a weekend off for a getaway in Santa Fe...

Wedding Trend...Cake jewelry?

2006-01-07T19:15:00.000-07:00

For the brides who love glitz and jewels, take a look at one of the wedding trends for 2006--cake jewelry.

www.cake-jewelry.com

www.verydifferentcakes.com

www.paristiaras.com (warning…expensive)

www.advantagebridal.com (warning…there’s a lot of “frouf” on this site)

Mailing your wedding invites? Price goes up

2006-01-06T16:49:00.000-07:00

Postage prices are going up. Postmarks after 1/8/06 will require a minimum of 39 cents for mailing regular size wedding invitations and those RSVPs that you're inserting in your invites. So either get those in the mail in the next 24 hours (unless your post office closes at noon on Saturday) or be prepared to add a two cent stamp...See photo for the 39 cent flag stamps, OR, if you've already purchased some special 37 cent stamps for those wedding invitations, why not add the 2 cent Navaho-inspired stamp. Perfect for those Southwestern destination weddings!

New Mexican Sunrise

2006-01-02T08:25:00.000-07:00

My husband went out this morning with our dog Midnight and captured these beautiful sunrise photos from our front yard in the East Mountains. The first photo is our view to the south of South Mountain and the Ortiz Mountains. The second photo is our view to the west of the Sandia Mountains.

Happy New Year from New Mexico

2005-12-31T08:36:00.000-07:00

Happy New Year to all my 2005 brides, their fiances and families, to all who are being married in our fine state in 2006 and to all the "newly engaged!"

May 2006 be a prosperous and joyful year for all.

Please watch for the February issue of Albuquerque the Magazine, as they are publishing a story on "Albuquerque's Best Wedding Vendors." Yours truly has been chosen as a featured wedding planner (smiley face) for two of ART & SOUL's Albuquerque weddings, the Willard/Pedersen wedding at the UNM Alumni Chapel, with reception at the Gruet Steakhouse and the Raster/Gonzalez wedding at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, with reception at the National Hispanic Cultural Center.

Another Christmas past

2005-12-27T05:38:00.000-07:00

I love New Mexico at Christmas. My husband and I spent Christmas Eve in Old Town tasting the treats of the galleries and stores that stay open for travellers who come from all over the world. I never tire of the luminarias, a great Southwest tradition. There's something magical about the old San Felipe de Neri Catholic Church, its twin bell towers lilting upward in the nighttime sky, set aglow by the hundreds of candles in sand and paper bags...

This year, in honor of the Albuquerque Tricentennial, Albuquerque set a goal of lighting the city with 3 million lights, candles, and luminarias. The last count I heard reported was 7.5 million!

The city of Albuquerque was going for a Guinness Book of World Records for "most lights" and unfortunately, was turned down for the record! Seems the Guinness folks thought luminarias were "too regional." So no award was given, but it was a beautiful sight nonetheless and really brought the folks of ABQ together in their quest to set a world record.

I'll report in again with any news in the event that the Guinness people change their minds. No doubt the mayor of Albuquerque and more than a few others registered their displeasure with what's hope is not a final decision!

Where has the time gone

2005-12-22T16:45:00.000-07:00

OK, my bad...
I've been busy with weddings, what can I say?

Please watch the wedding gallery for updates...hoping my wonderful web designer David can get my 2005 weddings up soon!

Lessons learned from recent weddings

2005-07-04T07:57:00.000-06:00

If you haven’t yet, be sure to visit my website at www.artandsoulevents.com. The site is built in Flash and requires either a high-speed connection or DSL in order to view, due to the graphic-intensive and content-rich nature of the site.

Well it’s July 4th and I’ve been enjoying my first full weekend at home since sometime in May. Loving it!

Here’s some current advice re: planning your wedding music…

#1: Begin planning your music early. I can’t stress this enough. Especially if your nuptials are going to occur during the busiest wedding months (May, June, September and October).

#2: If you’re having a DJ, choose the best. You won’t be sorry, believe me on this.

Because regional tastes vary, and personal tastes MUST be accounted for, know that not every song on your “must play” list will be in the DJ’s collection. You’ll need to download your favorites from the internet or burn your favorites on a CD. Plan on finishing up that project no later than two weeks before your wedding. Make a duplicate to give to your wedding coordinator and test both to ensure the copy is good, with no skips.

#3: If you are hiring musicians and want them to learn selections that are not in their repertoire, discuss this with them at least two months in advance. Learning new music takes time, even for the most proficient and accomplished musicians. Some musicians will learn new music as part of their performance fee; if the requests are unusual, obscure or complex, you may need to negotiate a rate that includes the pieces they’re being asked to learn.

#4: If you’re planning your wedding without a coordinator (god forbid! And don’t flame me on this one, it’s a rare bride and/or groom who doesn’t hold down a full-time and has the time available to take care of all the details…), it’s always best to put your requests in writing and have your vendor (DJ, musican, etc.) sign off on it. That way, everyone’s on the same page, and you won’t have any disappointments on your wedding day. I find it’s never a good idea to assume anything!!