Something Classic Events

State of Business, Something Classic Events

2011-06-07T14:30:00.002-06:00

So, again it has been a while since I posted. There has been a lot going here.

First of all, I am in the process of renaming/rebranding Something Classic Events. I feel the name and brand I have now does not represent me and how I want my business to be portrayed. So, look for the new reveal this fall!

Things are really starting to pick up now that wedding season is in full force. We have some new business hours that I want to make everyone aware of. Business hours are Monday - Thursday between 8am - 4pm. We are closed on New Year's Day, Birth of Martin Luther King, Jr., Washington's Birthday, Memorial day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veteran's Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. If one of these days falls on a Saturday or Sunday, we will be closed the next business day.

Here are some additional days we will be closed this year:

Thursday, June 9 - Sunday, June 12 - there will be very limited access to email and I will not have access to my cell
Sunday, June 19 - Sunday, June 26 - there will be no email access and no cell phone access

We have also hired a new assistant and she has been wonderful!!! We can't wait to introduce her to all of our brides and grooms.

And finally, the biggest announcement.

note this is not our baby, just one that is 11 weeks.

Something Classic Events and our family will be expanding by 1. Baby is due at the end of the year. I am almost 11 weeks pregnant and feeling ok. I have had severe morning sickness (read all day sickness) since 6 weeks. I hope after the 1st trimester it will go away. We are so excited and can't wait for our new addition. When the time gets closer, I will advise everyone about maternity leave.

As I always say, hopefully I'll get back into blogging soon!!!

Danielle

ABCs

2011-04-27T15:45:00.002-06:00

I saw this on another blog and thought it might get me in the mood for posting...so here goes nothing!

Age: 28

Bed: King and I love it!

Chore I hate: Laundry, I am ok with loading and unloading but it is the putting it away part I loathe.

Dogs: Two; Clover (girl)- 5 years old golden mix and Trooper(boy)- 6 month old chow (we think) husky mix.

Essential start of your day: Checking my email.

Favorite Color: Hmmm...this is a hard one for me, I go between several...so I can just say several? I really like grey, teal, pink and black.

Gold or silver: Silver

Height: 5'3" and a half

Instruments I play (or have played): Alto sax and piano

Job Title: Wedding Planner!!

Kids: 1; 3 year old little girl

Live: Colorado

Mom's Name: Maryann

Nickname: I don't have a nickname but sorta do. Let me explain, when I was in high school I was a cheerleader. We decided to have our name put on EVERYTHING! It was expensive to do it and I payed for the stuff out of my own pocket so, to save money I nicknamed myself Danni. I couldn't stand it after that year and went back to Danielle. My old coach cheer coach and teacher now teaches with my husband. When my husband was new to the district, he went to a BBQ to get the know the department. They were talking about spouses and he mentioned me. She blurted out "Danni?!?" So now, every now and then, he calls me Danni. Ugh!

Overnight hospital stays: Only 1 time, when I had my daughter

(this is one of my all time favorite pictures!!)

Pet Peeve: I probably shouldn't mention these, I have a lot!

Quote from a movie: Smiling is my favorite.

Right or left handed: Right.

Siblings: 1 sister, 14 months younger than me.

Time you wake up: Way too early! I love to sleep.

Umbrella: I have one in my car.

Vegetables you dislike: Radishes, Brussel Sprouts, Mushrooms, and a few more things.

What makes you run late: My husband and daughter, when either of them are involved, I run late and then I have to speed to make up the time.

X-rays you've had done: 1 time for a broken arm and the rest have been for the dentist

Yummy food you make: I think I make a lot of yummy stuff, my husband doesn't always think so.

Zoo animal: Giraffes

Planners and Cost

2011-04-05T12:30:00.000-06:00

There have been a TON of these articles written lately, by myself and others. I think it is important to showcase and bring them to you (...if you are out there!). I know I am not the best writer, so by giving you access to these other articles, you can read what I really mean, even if I don't have the exact words to say it.

So here are a few articles...

Cocktails and Details
WeddingDIVA
Planner Pages
Weddlady (this is one of my favorites! Make sure you read the download!)

And because a post is better with pictures, here is a wedding we just did in March!

MIA...but back with tips!!

2011-04-04T14:30:00.004-06:00

I know, I know, I have been MIA, my last post was almost 2 months ago.
I have felt out of the loop of blogging and plus, I am not sure how many people ready this, so I always put it on the back burner.
I am going to try harder though and we'll see... maybe I'll be inspired.

Anywho, I wanted to share this link with you: 5 things to know about your vendors
It is all true and sometimes we just need a reminder.
Enjoy reading and I'll be back soon!!!

Danielle

Do you need a wedding planner?

2011-02-10T07:00:00.002-07:00

How do you know? If someone has told you that you should have a planner? Do you want to know for yourself? Answer these simple questions and then you will know for yourself.

• Do you (or your mom or your aunt) want to setup and teardown your wedding?

• Do you (or your grandmother or your sister) want to run to the store when the bar runs out of liquor or ice?

• Do you (or your sister in law or matron of honor) want be the contact person for the day of the wedding?

• Do you (or your mother in law or bridesmaid) want to replenish napkins/cupcakes/popcorn when they run out?

• Do you (or your maid of honor or friend) want to get on site 2 hours before the ceremony starts to make sure everything is being perfectly setup?

• Do you (or your sister is law or mom) want to leave right after the rehearsal to go to your wedding site to make sure the tent is being setup properly?

• Do you (your mom or your great aunt) want to know that your cake fell and the bakery only had 30 minutes to fix it?

• Do you want your mom or friend or family member or invited guest-that-is-going-to-be-my-planner to worry that something is being taken care of the whole day?

If you answered no to any of these questions, you need to hire a wedding planner, or at least a day of coordinator. If you think that your venue coordinator is going to take care of these things, then you are mistaken. They are there for the venue, not for you like a planner or coordinator would be.

In addition,

• Do you want a stress free wedding day?

• Do you want to enjoy the wedding day with your friends and family?

• Do you want someone to setup and teardown your wedding?

• Do you want to have someone execute your wedding day how you envisioned?

• Do you want someone to take charge of the event and your vendors?

• Do you want your wedding to be one of the best days of your life?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you need to hire a wedding planner. There are so many little details that go into your wedding day that you do not want to deal with. Instead of leaving it up to a friend or family member (who doesn’t know much about what goes into putting a wedding together or is unfamiliar with a BEO), why not hire someone (a professional) that can take care of those details so your guests can truly be guests? Wedding planners are able to offer you peace of mind and allow you to fully relax – so you can enjoy your day, and so can your family members and friends.

Furthermore, I always tell my clients; don’t you want your family members and close friends to be with you while you are getting ready or having pictures taken or during cocktail hour? Can you imagine your mom (or friend or aunt) rushing to get lined up (or sit down) for the ceremony – she’s sweaty, flustered and isn’t able to focus on the ceremony because she is worried that she didn’t put a favor at each place setting? I am sure you don’t want anyone to feel that way, much less a family member or friend. Another tidbit, hire people you can sue or get mad at. Seriously. Do it. Do you want to ruin a relationship with a friend or family member because they didn’t set up your reception how you envisioned? Don’t think that will be you? It could be, so why take the chance. If you know you have a specific vision, it is even more critical to hire a planner to make sure your vision is executed (and you can get mad if it isn’t).

Hire a planner or day of coordinator, enjoy your wedding day and be stress free.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-02-09T07:00:00.000-07:00

Dawn Gioia Photography

Devil's Thumb Ranch Wedding - Style Me Pretty and Couture Colorado Feature

2011-02-01T13:00:00.002-07:00

Style Me Pretty and Couture Colorado has featured one of our weddings. The wedding took place last November in Devil's Thumb Ranch. The bride incorporated many DIY and personalized details throughout the wedding. We were so honored to be the day of coordinator for this wedding. Brinton Studios took these amazing pictures!! Check it out at the links below!

Style Me Pretty

Couture Colorado

We're featured...

2011-01-31T09:30:00.000-07:00

On Tracy Carolyn Photography's blog today! Come on over and check out what we have to say about wedding planning... click here! See you there!

What if Anthropologie did weddings?

2011-01-27T09:30:00.001-07:00

I know I have seen Anthro inspired wedding all over the place...but what if they did it? I just got this link in my email this morning and can't wait to see it unveiled!

http://www.bhldn.com/

I guess we will have to find out! So excited to see what they have in store!

Why I cost so "much"...

2011-01-25T10:09:00.002-07:00

I have had quite a few brides come to me lately and say they wanted planning for $500...I promptly let them know that I would not be able to plan or coordinate their day for that price.

Pricing involves more than just setting a price - I factor in time, travel, guest number, venue, etc., and that doesn't even begin to name everything included to run my business such as marketing materials, advertising and much more.

Below are a few articles about why planners cost what they do, definitely worth a read.

Confessions Of The WeddingDIVA: Why I Cost So "MUCH"...

Why do Wedding Planners cost "so much"?

Real Wedding at Seven's Restaurant, Breckenridge - Kassendra and Brandon

2011-01-13T09:00:00.008-07:00

"They don't know how long it takes

Waiting for a love like this..."

~ Lucky by Jason Mraz and Colbie Caillat

Kassendra and Brandon

August 7, 2010

Seven's Restaurant

We had the honor of working with Kassendra and Brandon to plan the final details of their wedding at Seven's Restaurant in Breck last August. Seven's is located at the base of peak 7 and it offers a beautiful view of the valley below. Their wedding was classic and chic, and an all around fantastic day. They were married on the deck of the restaurant over looking the mountains. It was stunning.

After the ceremony was over, they jumped on the gondola to take some pictures. One of the most important things for them was for them to get pictures with their dog.

Once they arrived back to Seven's, we introduced the bridal party and then sat down for a wonderful meal. After dinner, the dancing portion of the evening started. They kicked it off by having their first dance to Lucky by Colbie Caillat and Jason Mraz (one of my all time favorite songs!!).

The guys from Sweet Sounds Entertainment did a wonderful job of keeping the dance floor packed all night. As it got later into the evening, we provided a late night snack for all the guests - popcorn! The guests loved it!

Thank you Kassendra and Brandon for allowing me to be a part of your wedding day. Couples like you really make me love my job. You both are so gracious and genuine. Your wedding was truly spectacular. I loved all the small details that were woven into your day. I know you have many bright days ahead.

Vendors:

Venue - Seven's Restaurant, Breckenridge

Photographer – Autumn Burke Photography
Ceremony Music – Mockup Studios
Reception Music – Sweet Sounds Entertainment
Cupcakes – Molly & Maggie’s Bakery
Hair & Makeup – JR Design - Sarah
Transportation – Premier Charters
Florist – My Daughter’s Wedding
Videographer – Breck Films
Officiant – St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church - Rev. Christy Shain-Hendricks
Coordinator – Something Classic Events

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-12T07:00:00.002-07:00

Elegant Images and Photographs

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-05T08:00:00.000-07:00

2011 - the future is waiting to be written.

Here

Happy New Year!!!

2011-01-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

2010 was fantastic - we worked with so many great couples.

We cannot wait for 2011 and everything it is going to bring.

Congratulations to all the newly engaged couples!

Danielle, Maryann and Christina

Merry Christmas

2010-12-25T08:05:00.002-07:00

Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-12-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

Trystan Photography

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T08:00:00.001-07:00

May your day be filled with friends and family.

I hope you find time to reflect on what you are thankful for.

Danielle, Maryann and Christina.

Thankful Day Sixteen

2010-11-25T08:00:00.000-07:00

Today, I am thankful for...

I am thankful for where I am and what I have. I am thankful for a warm house and food in my fridge, for friends and family, and for my business and clients.

I am so fulfilled and grateful to everything I have. I think this thankful series has made me really think about what I have, as opposed to what I don't have. I am filled with joy and peace with where I am and where I am going.

Thank you all for reading and coming on this journey with me.

Thankful Day Fifteen

2010-11-24T08:00:00.000-07:00

Today, I am thankful for...

Compassion in love in action. It doesn't mean feeling sorry for someone, it means genuinely caring for a person in such an intense way that you will do anything in your power to help them anyway you can.

Being compassionate is an action - not just saying you are. It can be the simplest action of donating money to a charity - to see that there is someone in need and helping in a way you can.

It is lack of love for ourselves that inhibits our compassion toward others. If we make friends with ourselves, then there is no obstacle to opening our hearts and minds to others.

Today, I am thankful for compassion
Goal: To be compassionate with others.

Thankful Day Fourteen

2010-11-23T08:00:00.000-07:00

Today, I am thankful for...

Most people that know me know that I am all about instant gratification. When I want something, I want it now. Take for instance, I want to get an iPhone...badly. But I am waiting until, hopefully, it is available on Verizon. I cannot wait for this to happen and the anticipation is killing me!

But I am thankful that I have something to anticipate, even if it is as silly as an iPhone. I'm sure there are people out there that are not looking forward to anything happening and I think that is truly sad. To have nothing to look forward to would not be a life I would want to live.

Sometimes anticipation can help you just get through the day. I'm sure everyone has days where they have had enough - just the thought of getting home or going to dinner or the weekend - can drive you to finish the day.

I also love that I can anticipate the future - especially with my business. I can't wait to see where I will be next year or in 5 years. It is going to be amazing!

Today, I am thankful for anticipation.
Goal: To be more in the moment and let the anticipation be there. Let go of instant gratification.

Thankful Day Twelve

2010-11-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

Today, I am thankful for...

I am so lucky to be able to make my own choices. I can choose what I want to do, when I want to, where I want to..etc etc. There are many people that cannot make choices because of their finances, where they live, or who they live with.

There is such freedom in making choices - I can make bad one and good ones, and learn from them so when I make another choice I can use my experience to determine what to do.

I can choose the hard road or the easy road.
“There are always two choices. Two paths to take. One is easy. And its only reward is that it's easy.”
I love this quote and it fits so well into this post.

More than things, I can choose how I act and react, I can choose my attitude and I can choose my feelings. I can choose to be happy or sad, I can choose to forgive or not.

I can choose to make my life how I see fit.

Today, I am thankful that I can make choices in my life.
Goal: To choose wisely.

Thankful Day Eleven

2010-11-21T08:00:00.000-07:00

Today, I am thankful for...

I am so glad I know the value of hard work and what it means to work hard. Hard work is something that challenges and pushes you.

Lots of people will do what is easiest and avoid hard work. The superficial opportunities in life will be sought after by many, many people. The tougher challenges will have less competition but a lot more opportunity and gains. When you are challenged, you will see great rewards for your hard work. If you avoid hard work, you avoid doing what it takes to be successful. You will reach a higher level when you stop avoiding and fear hard work. You must be willing to work hard for what you want, it doesn't just fall into your lap.

You build your character by working hard. You make mistakes, learn from them and move forward. I read somewhere about what makes you embrace hard work and the answer was purpose. It went on to say that if you are living with purpose, hard work is not an issue. You know where you want to be and you have the determination to get there, and a little hard work doesn't deter you. If you have no purpose, you avoid hard work because it doesn't matter what you are doing so why would you work hard.

Purpose is the why and hard work is the how.

Today, I am thankful for hard work.

Goal: To work hard each make and make my purpose known to everyone.

Thankful Day Ten

2010-11-20T08:00:00.000-07:00

Today, I am thankful for...

I am truly thankful for forgiveness.

Forgiveness is given freely with no expectation of something in return or any exceptions. You may not forget what they have done, but you will not hold it against them anymore. You won't hold a grudge or use it against them when they are down.

To forgive is an act. You are acknowledging that you were hurt, and you may have to grieve as well. Then, just let it go and be done with it. Don't think about a way you can get back at them or what you can do to make it even, it will only continue to haunt you. By forgiving someone you choose to let go of it - not to get even, either with thought or deed. When you do that, you can be free and will be cease to be haunted by what it has done to you.

I would not be where I am right now without forgiveness - by me and by others. There will be people throughout your life that may disappoint you or that may need your forgiveness - friends, family and co-workers. Life is too short to not forgive.

"Forgiving does not erase the bitter past. A healed memory is not a deleted memory. Instead, forgiving what we cannot forget creates a new way to remember. We change the memory of our past into a hope for our future."

Beverly Flanigan

Today, I am thankful for forgiveness.

Goal: To be more forgiving in my life.

Thankful Day Nine

2010-11-19T08:45:00.025-07:00

Today I am thankful for...

I am so thankful that I have had the opportunity to have another try. To have another chance to do it again and learn from my first mistake. I am so so thankful that I have been willing to give second chances to others - to let them learn and grow and give them another chance.

We aren't perfect, we are going to make mistakes and if we are given another chance, my hope is that you truly understand and take advantage of what you are given. There are times where you only get one shot and wish you could have a redo, but you are not able to.

As I grow and learn, I have tried to take advantage of the first chance I get - to act like I may not get another shot at this. To take advantage of each opportunity the first time it comes around, because it may never come around again.

A second chance is giving someone that has disappointed you in the past an opportunity to - hopefully - not disappoint you again. It takes courage and faith to give someone another chance because they may just end up disappointing you again. By giving someone a second chance, it tells a lot about the kind of person you are. They allow us the opportunity to show compassion and kindness, the opportunity to demonstrate our trust and confidence in others.

Is there is a person in your life that deserves a second chance?

Today, I am thankful for second chances.

Goal: To give someone in my life a second chance.

Thankful Day Eight

2010-11-18T08:30:00.000-07:00

Today, I am thankful for...

One of my favorite things to do in my spare time is to read. I love everything from suspense to romance to inspirational. One of my goals in life is to have my own library. I would love for it to be a little room beside my bedroom with a cozy chair, fireplace and a TON of books. I am well on my to TONS of books.

I have so many favorite it would be hard to narrow it down to just a few. But here are some of my favorites:

I love where book can take you and how they can take you there. They can open your heart and expose you to something different. They can inspire you to change your life and the way you do things.

I love being a part of book clubs and find new, interesting books to read. I am also on goodreads and love to look through the book to find great new reads.

Today, I am thankful for books.

Goal: To read a book that is outside of my comfort zone.

Thankful Day Seven

2010-11-17T11:00:00.004-07:00

Today, I am thankful for...

Anyone who knows me, knows that I love pictures. I always have my camera in my bag, waiting to capture all the moments I can. I love being able to look back over them - I can instantly remember what I was feeling at the moment. This is especially true now that I am a mother.

Yesterday, I was looking through an online gallery of pictures from my little girl's first year. I hadn't seen many of them in quite a while. I remember what I was feeling in the moment they were taken. Being a new mom there are so many emotions that you are feeling and it can be overwhelming. Now, being where I am and able to look back, is priceless. I cherish those days being home 24/7 with my newborn daughter. I love the snuggles and crying that only I can soothe. Now those moments have changed into something different but equally as good. My little girl telling me she loves me or that I am her best friend, I cherish those moments just the same.

From when she was just a tiny baby,

to a bigger baby,

to a little girl,

to a toddler,

to a princess,

and a model.

I am so grateful and lucky to have these images to look back on.
There is a poem called "Famous" by Naomi Shihab Nye. In that poem, there is a line that stands out to me and fits this post:

"The bent photograph is famous to the ones who carries it and

not at all famous to the one who is pictured."

I carry all of these pictures in my "wallet" and they mean so much to me. They probably don't mean anything most other people but to me, it means so much.

I have one last picture to share, every time I see it, it brings tears to my eyes. I love it.

I never want to forget how I felt that day, at that time.

Today, I am thankful for all of the captured moments of my life.

Goal: To be sure to capture many, many more.

I want to thank several photographers who have captured moments in my life:
Elegant Images
Enoch Photography
Dawn Gioia Photography
Real Photography
Mansurov Photography
**I am grateful to you and your art.**

Thankful Day Six

2010-11-16T10:00:00.029-07:00

Today, I am thankful for...

I am so so so thankful that God did not answer all my prayers. If he did, I would be in a completely different place.

Could it be better? Possibly, but I am not sure. Could it be worse? Most definitely. There were so many times in life that I prayed and it didn't come out how I wanted it to. But it is not about me. It is about Him and what is planned for my life.

I know there is something great for me in my life. Instead of praying for something, I want to start praying for Him to do his will - guide me and show me what you want me to do, not what I thnk I should be doing. Thank God for unanswered prayers - just because he doesn't listen, doesn't mean he doesn't care. In each moment, we are exactly where He wants us to be. Why should I interefere with that? All of my expereinces, good and bad, have proven to be right and have put me where He wants me to be...and where I want to ultimately be. I have had that "a ha" moment many times - so this is why you put me in this place/situation and out me through this. This what I should be doing. He is putting me on a path that has been set for me, and only me, and one day, it will be revealed.

Today, I am thankful for unanswered prayers.

Goal: To live by Him and not by me

Thankful Day Five

2010-11-15T09:00:00.001-07:00

Today, I am thankful for...

In every sense of the word.

I am thankful for those that have been down this road before...then they stop, turn around, and offer advice on how to make it though. They are business leaders, prophets, and college professors. They see life from a different perspective and encourage you to do the same.

In the last month, I have been able to see two teachers speak about their passion and themselves, Sean Low and Lara Casey. While they spoke about two very different things, they inspired me in their own way. They laid out a path and said let me help you.

I am also thankful for all the teachers I have had, in the traditional sense of the word. From elementary school to college, I was so blessed to have wonderful teachers. I have a handful that made a significant impact on life. I kept in touch with them and even invited them to my wedding. It takes a special person to be a teacher to our youth. It is a job like no other. Teachers can make a difference in each student's life they teach. They can be a wonderful mentor and sometimes, being the adult roll model for a student. My husband in a teacher and I am so proud of him.

Today, I am thankful for all the teachers in my life.

Goal: To reach out to and thank them.

Thankful Day Four

2010-11-14T08:45:00.011-07:00

Today, I am thankful for...

I am so happy to be alive and thriving. There are many, many people around the world that don't know if they will live until today or have another day.

I am thankful for time. While I was at MTH 2010, we did an exercise about what life is too short for. For me, the most signifigant one was "Life is too short to have meanlingless moments." Some days I find myself "wasting time," waiting for a family member to show up or doing nothing.

I am blessed to be here and be alive, to be in good health and have my family around me.

Today, I am thankful for today.

Goal: To be present in each moment

Thankful Day Three

2010-11-13T10:00:00.052-07:00

Today, I am thankful for...

I love my family more than words can express.

I met my husband while I was in college. At the time, I never would have imagined him becoming my husband. After a few years of dating and going though our ups and downs, I knew he was the one for me. He proposed to me at a park in Boulder after we had brunch. He played me a beautiful song he had composed and asked me to be his wife. I can remember the day clearly, and it still makes me cry. 10 months later, we became husband and wife. Our wedding day was one of the happiest days of my life. In the years since we got married, I have only fallen more in love with him. He has become an amazing man and he is more than I could have ever imagined. He is caring, honest, trust-worthy and hard working. He makes me laugh on a daily basis, even when I am having a down day. He is my greatest joy.

My daughter. Hmm...where to start? She is amazing. I always say, I cannot believe I made her. The type of love a parent has for a child is indescribable. I never thought I could love someone more than my husband and myself, but she showed me that you can. I never thought I would willingly give my life up for someone else. I love her unconditionally. She is spirited and full of life. In her short three years here, she has made me a better person. She has made my life complete. She has changed me in ways she will never be able to fully comprehend or understand. It is astounding how much you can love one person. Everything I do, I do for her. She is unbelievable.

Today, I am thankful for my family.

Goal: To express to them how much I love them

Taken by Dawn Gioia Photography

Thankful Day Two

2010-11-12T08:30:00.002-07:00

Last week, I was able to experience something amazing...and I want to share it with you all.

Today, I am thankful for...

For those of you that don't know, Making Things Happen is put on by the fabulous Lara Casey. I went to the workshop in Houston, and was fortunate enough to meet Emily Ley and Gina Zeidler. I was expecting a business workshop - where we talk about our business, our brand, and how to make it better. What I got was something completely different. It is a workshop like no other.

I was nervous to go and kept thinking of ways I could get out of it. I had spoken with a few collegues that had been and they said it was wonderful and to go in with an open mind...and a box of tissues. Tissues, really? For a business conference? It made me very, very nervous.

The workshop was beyond words. By the time I left, I was drained and emotional. I was overwhemed with possibility and what is ahead for myself and my company. It is amzing what 11 hours with wonderful people can do to you. Everyone was so real and authentic, and you couldn't help but be that way too. The room was filled with hopes and fears, passions and dreams, as well as many, many tears. Everyone laid it out there for others to see, and we all became inspired by each other, but by ourselves too. Everyone was encouraging and didn't pass judgement, which made it even easier to open up.

The community that has come out of the workshop has been exciting. To have 17 new friends, I would say best friends because of all we shared, that have experienced what I have, with me and in their own way, is priceless. Not only have the people I met there been amazing, but the community of people on Twitter and Facebook that have gone through the workshop have been so encouraging.

I would love to do this workshop again, to feel continually energized and awakened to possibilities, would be marvelous. To be able to be in a room with people being so authentic and real on a regular basis would be...I can't even put it into words.

There are several things that I came away with and I would like to share a few:

Feel the fear and do it anyway
Begin anywhere
A year from now you will wish you had started today
Life begins at the end of your comfort zone

Taken by Gina

I stepped outside the fear and found clarity and peace. I feel energized and ready for the world. I was challenged to find what truly, truly makes me happy and go for it...why wait? What am I waiting for? Life is too short...

Today, I am thankful for Making Things Happen 2010.
My goal: To be authentic in everything I do.

Thankful: Day One

2010-11-11T09:45:00.006-07:00

November. This time of year is my most favorite. I love the colors, the weather, and the food. Thanksgiving is in a few weeks, my daughter will turn three the day after and then Christmas will come a few weeks after that... I love spending time with friends and family. Even though there is a lot going on, I try to slow down and reflect on the things that are most important to me.

So on that note, everyday for the next two weeks, I am going to post about what I am thankful for and what I am going to do that day to make it my focus. It is my hope that this will help me to take it all in, remember what is most important to me in life, and keep it at the forefront of my focus for the day.

Today being Veteran's Day, I think it is most fitting to honor them. So today I am thankful for...

I have very strong feelings about our military and their sacrifices. My dad was in the military, so I grew up in that lifestyle, and I have to say it was amazing. I learned to adapt to new situations and people quickly, and learned a new type of camaraderie from other military families, something I have not seen outside of that world. I traveled the world and met many different kinds of people. I learned that family is the most important thing.

When people ask me where I am from, it takes me a moment to answer because I don't think I am from one certain place...sure I was born in Florida, but I didn't stay there long. I lived in Germany, California, Alaska and finally ended up in Colorado. I think I am from the military lifestyle, not any single place. I am a "military brat," and proud of it.

My sister was in the military and went to Iraq a several years ago. I was still in college at the time and was so fortunate to be able to visit her before she left.

(Side story: I went to tell one of my professors that I would not be in class for a couple days because I was going to see my sister off to Iraq. This professor had a rule that if you attended all classes for the semester, you would get extra credit. She mentioned I would not be excused from class for the time I missed and therefore, would not be eligible for the extra credit. I was in shock. I told her, you have got to be kidding me, you will excuse a football player because of a game, but you will not excuse me, even though I am going to see my sister that is leaving to go to a WAR zone and fight. I was livid. Needless to say, I didn't need the extra credit because I got an A and my sister came home, but still, it bothers me to this day.)

I cannot tell you what it is like to have a family member overseas and in danger. It is constantly on your mind and heart. On top of that, she had a daughter and husband at home. She is amazingly strong and I am so proud of her. I was so glad that I was able to see her off and to see her come home.

My brother-in-law is also in the military. Currently, he is serving our country in Afghanistan. I am so proud of him and honored to call him family. He left his family at home too - my sister, my niece, and my nephew. I can't imagine how hard it is to be away from your family for months at a time, especially during the holidays. I can't wait for him to come home in the new year.

I am indebted to all military personnel - past, present and future. You have made a huge sacrifice, and you have done it for millions of people you don't know. You enable me to live a life of freedom and choice. You make our country safe and fight against people that want to harm us. Thank you for being so brave and putting your life on the line, so I can live in comfort. I am so grateful for you.

I am so blessed to live in a country where I can choose what I want to wear today, choose what I want to do, and choose how I want to live my life. I am blessed to live where I am free to make my own decisions and choices. I owe it to these brave men and women - the ones that came before us and gave us this great gift, the ones today that put their life on the line, and the ones in the future that will continue to fight for our way of life.

Today, I am thankful to be free.

My goal: Thank each person I see in uniform today.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-20T10:45:00.000-06:00

Kokoro Photography

Busy!

2010-10-08T07:00:00.000-06:00

So I have been a TERRIBLE blogger for the last few weeks! It is wedding season for sure. After this weekend, this will slow down for me, so look out for some real weddings and fun blog posts! I'll be back!

Here are a couple pictures to hold you over:

Real Photography

Teshon Christie Photography

Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-06T11:00:00.001-06:00

Becky Young Photography

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-25T07:00:00.000-06:00

Two Chicks Photography

Wordless Wednesday

2010-08-18T07:00:00.004-06:00

Dawn Gioia Photography

real wedding at donovan pavilion, vail {liz + jimmy}

2010-08-13T07:00:00.004-06:00

"I love you darling and that' no lie, Stick by me...

When you cry, I cry, too, Stick by me...

Remember my heart and my love belong to you, oh

Stick by me and I stick by you"

Stick by Me - John Holt

Every now and then I get the honor of working with a couple that literally makes me stop what I am doing and take it all in - to remember why I love doing this so much. Sometimes we get so caught up in what happens when, where this goes and what comes next, that we forget why this day is here to begin with. This year one of those couples {I had a few this year}, that has made me stop and think, was Liz and Jimmy. During the whole weekend, whenever they were together, you could feel the love between them. It was almost palpable. I don't think I have even seen a couple happier and more in love than them, and that's saying a lot. They love each other with every sense of the word. I found myself watching them on their wedding day in awe of the way they loved each other. It was so carefree, true and passionate. They were filled with love that day - from their friends, family and from each other. Amazing is an understatement.

Liz and Jimmy are incredibly generous and loving people. They were so giving of their time during their wedding weekend. Quite a few people came into for the wedding and it can be somewhat stressful to be pulled in different directions, but they handled it with such grace. They made sure to have a conversation and take pictures with everyone - they were so willing to be there with each of them.

They were also themselves on their wedding day. I'm sure you are asking yourself, "What is she talking about?!" Let me explain. Sometimes I feel that brides feel like they have to "act" a certain way on their wedding day because they are the bride. I know I felt that way and it is one of the things I wish I could go back and change. I didn't feel like myself. I didn't feel like I could act goofy or funny because that wasn't how a "bride" acted {please tell me I am not the only one...}. But with Liz and Jimmy, they were completely themselves and it was such a joy to be around them. They kissed and hugged, and laughed all day long. They were carefree and it was beautiful.

Liz and Jimmy - Thank you so much for choosing me to be a part of of your wedding day. I am so grateful for the two of you, your relationship and sharing it with everyone. It was so refreshing to see you two together on your wedding day. I hope you never lose that spark for life and for each other. I want to thank you for being the most authentic, generous, bighearted and thoughtful people I have ever had the privilege of meeting. I wish you nothing but happiness for many, many years to come. I know your wedding day was just the start to an amazing life together.

Their wedding has been one of my favorites of the season. It was all around a remarkable event - from all the unbelievable details to the great food to all the friends and family they shared their day with. Without further ado, here are some pictures of their stunning wedding.

Venue - Donovan Pavilion, Vail CO

Photographer - Julie Afflerbaugh Photography

Rentals - Alpine Party Rental

Caterer - Gourmet Cowboy

Flowers - Cheryl Porter

DJ - A Great Time DJ

Officiant - Faye Gipson
Coordinator - Something Classic Events

Wordless Wednesday {8.11.10}

2010-08-11T07:00:00.000-06:00

Julie Afflerbaugh Photography

Wordless Wednesday

2010-07-28T07:00:00.001-06:00

Stacey Adams Photography

real wedding at hillside gardens, colorado springs {kaitlyn & sean}

2010-07-27T08:46:00.007-06:00

Kaitlyn and Sean met in high school and have been together ever since. Sean knew before their first date that Kaitlyn was the one and told her so. They were engaged on New Year's Eve in 2008. After being together since 2005, Kaitlyn and Sean were married in May this year.

Their wedding was held at a beautiful venue in Colorado Springs called Hillside Gardens. Earlier that morning, Kaitlyn graduated from college. Then she hurried down to Colorado Springs so she could get married! It was a very busy and exciting day for all of them. After getting ready, Kaitlyn and Sean had their first look. They chose to do this, because the most important thing for them on their wedding day was for them to spend time with family and friends. The ceremony was held on the lawn right in the gardens. After the ceremony, guests were able to mingle and have some appetizers. After the bridal party was announced, dinner was served (and it was awesome!). After the necessary dance and toasts, the party was in full swing. While Kaitlyn and I were planning her wedding, she said she was not too concerned with music after dinner because she didn't think anyone would dance. But boy, she was in for a surprise! Cameron from Complete Music had the dance floor packed all evening!! Another important aspect of the wedding for Kaitlyn and Sean was the grand exit. They chose to do a sparkler exit and it turned out so well.

Kaitlyn and Sean – Thank you so much for sharing your day with me. I am so honored that I was able to help you make your wedding day come together just how you wanted. Everything was so beautiful. The best part for me was seeing everyone dance. I wish you both the very best that life can bring.

Vendors:

Ceremony and Reception – Hillside Gardens

Caterer – Salsa Brava

Florist – Hillside Consultants

Photographer – Brienne Boortz Photography

DJ – Complete Music

Cake – Friend of the bride

Thank you for following Something Classic Events. If you enjoyed this post or have something to add, be sure to leave a comment! We love them!!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-07-14T07:00:00.002-06:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-06-30T08:00:00.002-06:00

Becky Young Photography

Thank you for following Something Classic Events. If you enjoyed this post or have something to add, be sure to leave a comment! We love them!!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-06-23T07:00:00.000-06:00

Cayton Photography

{happy anniversary}

2010-06-21T07:00:00.002-06:00

Happy Anniversary to my husband. I can't believe how fast time has flown by. I love you more and more each day. Looking forward to many more years together!

{invites}

2010-06-18T07:00:00.001-06:00

I love all paper products, in fact I have a slight obsession with them. I am always on the lookout for new notepad, notecards and folders. I could totally see myself being an invite designer, if I didn't love the planning.

A few months ago,one of my couple's asked me about having their invites designed because they couldn't find something they liked. I immediately contacted Bailey to see what she could do. I have known Bailey for years, we went to high school together and were on the same cheerleading squad. She has been doing graphic design for a while and has started her own business, Bailey Doehler Designs, doing everything from invites to logos. I love her work.

And here is what she came up with...

I love them and they are exactly what the bride and groom were looking for!

Danielle

Thank you for following Something Classic Events. If you enjoyed this post or have something to add, be sure to leave a comment! We love them!!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-06-16T10:10:00.001-06:00

*More about this on Friday!!

Thank you for following Something Classic Events. If you enjoyed this post or have something to add, be sure to leave a comment! We love them!!

Wish Upon A Wedding Launch Party

2010-06-14T07:00:00.004-06:00

As I told you before, I am a board member for the Colorado chapter of Wish Upon a Wedding. The organization was established to put together wedding wishes for terminally ill patients. Wish Upon a Wedding started nationwide in January of this year and the Colorado chapter started up in April. We are currently planning our launch party for later this month.

The launch party is going to be held on Thursday June 24, 2010 from 4:30pm to 6:30pm at Baur's in downtown Denver. We would love to see everyone there and share with you what this organization is about. To register, please go here. If you are unable to make it, but would still like to be a wish granter, please send me an email and I can get you on the list!

I hope to see some of you there!
Danielle

Thank you for following Something Classic Events. If you enjoyed this post or have something to add, be sure to leave a comment! We love them!!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-06-09T21:15:00.001-06:00

Cayton Photography

Wordless Wednesday

2010-06-02T07:00:00.000-06:00

Wordless Wedneday

2010-05-19T14:33:00.002-06:00

Karie McLain Photography

You can always get it cheaper...

2010-05-18T09:48:00.007-06:00

Sasha Souza...have you heard of her? She is an amazing planner and educator. She has a blog post today about getting something cheaper. I have had brides email me and ask about prices and ask for a discount. Most of the time, they want the SAME package for a lower price - which is something I don't do. I value what I do, my time and my experience. What Sasha explains is yes, you can get something cheaper but it will not be what YOU want but the price you want. You can read her whole post here. It is amazing!!

Danielle

Wordless Wednesday

2010-05-12T08:29:00.001-06:00

Dreamtime Images

{project: stamp}

2010-05-07T10:15:00.003-06:00

When I have free time, I enjoy making crafts. I love being creative and seeing the outcome after working on a project. Anything from sewing something for my daughter to building a nightstand to making handmade cards. As I have stated in the past, I follow A LOT of blog and several of them are craft blogs. I see a lot of things that inspire me and I think about how I can incorporate them into weddings.

For quite a while, I have been researching custom stamps. I wanted to get a portion of my logo made into a stamp so I could make anything I wanted with it {not sure what it would be, but still I wanted one}. I came across a several blogs that showed you how to make your own stamp, so I thought I would try.

This is my logo. I want to get a stamp of just the little guy below the words.

I blew it up into several different sizes. I found one that suited the project I had in mind.

Here are the supplies I used:

Design for the stamp

Mod Podge

1 sheet of 3mm foam

1 stamp pad

X-acto knife {not pictured}

Ultra Fine point Sharpie

Cut the design from the paper with the X-acto knife {sorry I didn't get a picture of that}.

Cut a piece of foam a little bigger than the design. Trace the design onto the foam with the sharpie as best you can.

Using the X-acto knife, cut your design out of the foam. This took me quite a while to do. It would be easier with a simplier design. :)

Next, cut two more pieces of foam bigger than your design. This will be used as your base to hold the stamp. I couldn't think of anything else to mount it to, but I am definitely open to suggestions if you have any. :)

Using your Mod Podge and stick it all together. I put a little Mod Podge on all the foam pieces to make them stick better. You will have a little bit of time to adjust your design if needed. For me, I made sure the spacing was the same in the design as best as I could. Then, let it dry completely.

Then get your ink pad and stamp away!! Here is my finished design. I think it came out pretty well for the first time making a stamp.

On a semi-related note, I was looking at stamp pads colors and my daughter asked for one. So I got her a little small square stamp with princess designs on it {she is so into Disney princesses it is crazy!}. The ink pad that it came with was pretty lousy so I gave her a red one I had on hand. I ran upstairs to grab my design off the printer and I heard her say, "Mommy, I need you." I said "Ok, I'll be right there. What happened?" She responded, "My hands are pink!" I came downstairs and found this:

At least she had a good time! It washed off so it was not a big deal and she had a ton of fun.

My goal is to try to do a project posting once a week...hopefully I will be able to keep up with it!

What do you think? Do you like this kind of post or not? What would you like to see? We love comments, leave us some! :)

Danielle

Colorado Wedding Planner

Wordless Wednesday

2010-05-05T08:15:00.000-06:00

Keri Doolittle Photography

Wish Upon A Wedding

2010-05-03T09:30:00.001-06:00

I haven't shared this with everyone because I wanted to wait until it was official. After having our first board meeting last week, I am now happy to share that I have accepted the position of Volunteer Coordinator chair with the Colorado chapter of Wish Upon A Wedding, a non profit organization that grants wedding wishes for couples facing life threatening illness.

Wish Upon A Wedding has now partnered with the Association of Bridal Consultants! They have also recently partnered with Get Married Magazine! This organization just started in January, so it is exciting to be paired up with these other two great organizations so soon.

Here is an excerpt Wish Upon A Wedding's website -

"As the World's first nonprofit wedding wish granting organization, Wish Upon A Wedding provides weddings at destination across the United State for individuals facing life-threatening illness. It is a chance for couples to enjoy a very speical day, without any thought of exisiting health issues, while surrounded by their closest family and friends"

We are looking to do a launch party sometime in June and I will make sure everyone gets the details! If you would like to be a part of this great organization, you can find more information here. If you are a wedding professional and would like to be a Wish Granter, please contact me and I can get you some information. I look forward to sharing this experience with you all!

Danielle

Colorado Wedding Planner

Proud Member of Wish Upon A Wedding

Wordless Wednesday

2010-04-28T09:17:00.002-06:00

Heirloom Weddings

{no longer in business}

Happy One Year!

2010-04-26T08:45:00.003-06:00

An anniversary is a time to celebrate the joys of today, the memories of yesterday, and the hopes of tomorrow. ~ Author Unknown

Happy Anniversary Kelly and Jeff!

More pictures here
Picture credit - Laura Dombrowski

Happy Anniversary Kelly and Erik!

Picture Credit: Here

Thank you all for allowing us to be a part of your wedding day! We wish you many, many more years together.

Danielle & Maryann

Wordless Wednesday

2010-04-21T07:00:00.000-06:00

Amy & Stuart Photography

Story is neat too, click here

PS. I will be back to regular blogging soon!! :)

{Sweet Deal}

2010-04-16T09:30:00.002-06:00

Last year, we had the pleasure of working with Dana from Dana Romanoff Photography. Here are a few shots from the wedding we did together.

Right now Dana is offering a sweet deal for Something Classic Events clients, you get a free engagement session and $500 in wedding credit to any couple getting married in 2010 here in Colorado. She have traveled all over the US and has beautiful work. The offer ends on May 15, 2010, so you better hurry! Take a look at her work here! We definitely enjoyed working with her.

Danielle

Colorado Wedding Planner

Wordless Wednesday

2010-04-14T07:00:00.000-06:00

MANSUROVS Photography

Around the Blogging World...

2010-04-09T09:45:00.002-06:00

I totally had a ::my life:: post planned for today, but this week has been nuts and I didn't have a chance to upload any pictures. Sad...but it will be up on Monday, so you can look forward to it then.

For today, I thought I would share some post from some of the blogs that I follow. As I have stated in the past, I follow A LOT of blogs and I add more each week. I won't post a ton of links here, just a few - but hopefully it will keep you busy. Enjoy! And I'll be back on Monday, have a great weekend!

Dynamite Wedding Blog All sorts of trends and tips posted daily.

Hostess with the Mostess Awesome blog featuring tablescapes and decor.

Last Forty Percent Photography Amazing photographers

Wedinator Funny wedding pictures and stories...use caution, may not be for everyone.

Anderson Green Events Wonderful blog from a wedding planner in New York.

From "I Will" to "I Do" Tips, vendors and products for the bride.

Love Notes Wedding Inspiration

COUTUREcolorado Colorado Wedding Inspiration

Every Last Detail Inspiration, Ideas and Insight

Amy Atlas Events Super creative planner...love her stuff!

Picture by Nathan of Dreamtime Images

Wordless Wednesday

2010-04-07T07:00:00.001-06:00

Steve Z Photography

Safety First

2010-04-05T08:27:00.002-06:00

I think it is very important to be prepared for any situation...especially at a wedding. I try to have whatever I need on hand. My emergency kit is well stocked at all times and I always have it with me. But what if something unexpected happened...say a groomsmen fainted or someone had a heart attack? What happens then?

Well in an effort to be as prepared as possible, last Friday I renewed my CPR and First Aid training. My certification is through the American Heart Association and it is good for 2 years (it was due to renew in August, but hello we know how busy it is then). It also includes training on an AED (It was a 10 hour day, but so well worth it). I had some excellent teachers and had the chance to perfect my technique. I am so blessed to have had the opporunity to take this course - you never know when you will need it and I think everyone should have this training.

So now I can truly say I am prepared for ANY situation...well, at least I think I am! Are you interested in taking a course? Click here to find out when and where a class is happening in your area.

Have a great day and stay safe!

Danielle

Colorado Wedding Planner

Picture from here

Wordless Wednesday

2010-03-31T07:00:00.000-06:00

Ardent Photograhy

The Rest

2010-03-26T07:00:00.003-06:00

Here is the last half of the article from Monday...

Timeline and Details
Your wedding day is one big orchestrated event and it needs to be planned out. A wedding planner is able to put together a comprehensive timeline for all other vendors. Timelines are essential for the day to run smoothly. This timeline is massive and will include every single detail of your wedding. All of your vendors will know what is happening and when. She will be the go to person for your wedding and she will get each vendor ready for each event happening. When everything is in place for let’s say the cake cutting (DJ cued, photographer cued and catering staff cued), she will come to the bride and groom and let them know it is time. If there was no planner, the DJ will ask the bride and groom to do the cake, the photographer may have to shuffle the bride and groom around to make sure they have a shot and hopefully the catering staff is ready to cut after the bride and groom have. I hear from a lot of photographers that they end up being the coordinator at a wedding if there is not one, how are they supposed to do their job if they are doing the job of another? A wedding planner will take care of ALL the details for your wedding day. She knows what the order of your processional is, where your favor is placed, where the table names go and what your centerpieces look like, among many other details. She will make sure it is executed how you want it to be. If she wasn’t there, who would do it? Family? They should be spending this day with you; helping you get ready and taking pictures, not worrying about favor placement or if your cake got there on time. The venue? The venue is worried about other things besides the all little details (they do worry about certain details but not ALL of them) and many places will not do set up for you. A friend? Don’t you want them to be able to enjoy the day with you and be a guest at your wedding? A wedding planner will make sure your timeline and details are taken care of.

Wedding Day
After all of the hard work planning, you should be able to relax on your wedding day. You, your fiancé and your families should have nothing to do except enjoy themselves. Most brides have been dreaming, fantasizing, planning and preparing for this day since they were 14 – you want to make sure it is everything you want it to be. I am sure that includes spending time with your family; not having them setup your wedding. Your wedding planner will be able to accomplish this. You have given your planner all the details for your wedding day and all she has to do is execute. She will take care of the setup and tear down of your wedding. At my company, we do anything that needs to be done. Even though we plan as much as we can, sometimes there are small things that come up during the day – unexpected issues. A professional planner is able to address the issues and come up with a workable solution for all involved. She is able to do this because of her experience and her knowledge of the industry. But your wedding planner will make sure you never have to deal with or see them. A friend or family may not be able to accomplish the same thing – which may in turn cause stress for those helping and yourself. If you hire a wedding planner, you may never even know anything out of the ordinary happened. And that is the sign that you are a genius at wedding planning – you hired someone to take care of everything so you can fully enjoy your day.

I hope this gives you insight in why planner cost what they do and why you should have one. I would be happy to address any further questions or concerns you may have!

Danielle

Picture courtsey of Becky Young Photography

Wordless Wednesday

2010-03-24T07:00:00.001-06:00

Dana Romanoff Photography

The Half

2010-03-22T13:36:00.004-06:00

So last week I mentioned that I was featured on the Budget Bride blog for 5280 magazine. She asked me to write a post and I did, I really did and it was super long. She obviously couldn't use it all, so I wanted to post it here. Happy Reading!

I once heard that the two biggest purchases you make in life are a house and a car. A close third is your wedding. Usually when you are buying a house, you enlist the help of a real estate agent to help you find your house and guide you through the process of buying, which can be very confusing to the typical buyer. When you buy a car, you speak with a sales representative. They are to give you details regarding the car, as well as other cars, and they help you put together a deal. When you are doing either of these for the first time, there is a lot you may not know or understand and you are spending a good chunk of change – so it can be very over- whelming, so you hire someone to walk you through it (not for the car, just the house J).

Now, let’s put this perspective of your wedding day. Your wedding day will probably be the biggest party you will every throw. There are so many particulars that need to be taken care of. If you haven’t done it (or even if you have), there are details and questions you may not know the answer to or even know where to start looking. You are spending quite a bit of money, why would you risk not having a professional help you through the process? You wouldn’t do it with a house or car, why do it with your wedding day? A planner will be able to help you through the planning process and answer questions that will, undoubtedly, come up along the way.

Wedding planners usually charge a flat fee for their packages and they will offer a few different levels of service. You need to determine what you need in a planner – a full package, partial and day of. The full package encompasses the whole planning process from start to finish, the partial usually comes in in the middle of planning, and the day of (should really be last-2-months-before-you-get-married package) helps to tie up loose ends.

The fee for each package will be determined by what level of service you are looking for. Each planner will charge a different rate – some high, some middle and some low. So how do you pick?

There are three reasons why wedding planners charge what they do. Here they are:

Expertise and Experience
A wedding planner is an expert in weddings. She has done more weddings than the bride and groom have, hopefully, and she knows the ins and outs of planning one. It takes a lot of time to plan a wedding (some estimates are 250 hours), and if you have a full time job on top of that, you will be running around like crazy. This is her job – to plan your wedding and help you in any way possible. She can assist you with your budget and tell you where you need to cut things. She is up to date on costs/going rates and can tell if you if you may be overpaying a vendor. She can help your narrow down the style you want for your wedding; she sees the whole picture. She will be able to make sure the planning process is smooth and stress free. Your planner is there for YOU. She does not have allegiance to anyone except for the bride and groom – she are always on your side. Finally, she has connections with awesome vendors. She is able to help you weed through all of the vendors out there and tell you the ones that will match your style best (and your budget). She will save you time (and time is money right?) by doing all the research for you and presenting you with the best options.

Reason 2 and 3 coming later this week...

Danielle

Picture provided by Dana Romanoff

Where in the World is Something Classic Events?

2010-03-19T07:00:00.001-06:00

Did you ever watch "Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?" Oh man, that was one of my favorite shows and I also had the computer game. My sister and I were pretty good at it...brings back good memories thinking about that game.

Anywho, we have been featured quite a few places on the web lately and I wanted to share some of them with you. So here are the links:

Melissa Beck Photography This is a wedding we did together last year in Colorado Springs.

Budget Bride The bride is a blogger for 5280 magazine in Denver. She contacted me about writing a blog post about why wedding planners are worth what they charge. Check it out!

An Interview on COUTUREcolorado If you are unfamiliar with COUTUREcolorado, it " is your guide to plan your one of a kind Colorado wedding. There are daily posts that will inspire you. From real weddings to cool new products from the latest fashion trends to THE LIST, you will find COUTUREcolorado as an invaluable resource in planning your wedding." We are also proud members of THE LIST. THE LIST "is a hand picked selection of the top wedding professionals in Colorado. Each wedding professional is creative, highly skilled, and provide excellent customer service."

Becky Young Photography A writeup about the giveaway I had and her experience with a wedding planners.

Amanda Forbes Photography A writeup

Ardent Photography This is an interview they did with me and it was featured on their blog.

The Knot Katy's blog is featured for the Knottie of the week and she was also part of the The Knot TV Live this week. If you missed it today, it will be available tomorrow. Their wedding will also be featured in The Knot magazine this Fall. We are/were thrilled to be a part of their wedding.

The Knot Real Colorado Wedding Budgets We were part of an article on theknot.com (it was also featured in the Colorado Edition of their magazine!). Our associate, Maryann, was the day of coordinator for Sarah and John's wedding last year.

And of course, last but certainly not least Style Me Pretty. We were featured for Ali and Ian's wedding at Devil's Thumb Ranch. There are two parts to their feature - Part I and Part II.

As you can tell, we have been busy! I hope I didn't forget anyone. We are so honored to be mentioned included on all of these great blogs! Thanks to everyone who made that possible.

Danielle

Colorado Wedding Planner

Wordless Wednesday

2010-03-17T07:00:00.001-06:00

Helen Cyr

mmmm....Cake

2010-03-12T07:36:00.007-07:00

Beside what you are wearing, people will be talking about your wedding cake. If it is tall and regal or fun and whimsical, people will definitely talk about it. Your wedding cake can add to the decor and the feeling of your wedding.

When it comes to the cake, there are definitely some tradition and rituals that take place. Your wedding cake is a symbol of fertility and prosperity {and no, I'm not making this up} and should be treated as such. It should be a magnificent display piece and be elaborate in design. When cutting the cake, the groom should put his hands over the brides {on the cutting knife} and the first piece should be cut from the bottom layer. Traditionally, the bride should eat the first piece, otherwise she will end up childless and barren {I hope not, eek!}. After the first bite is eaten by the bride and groom, the cake is cut for the guests to eat. Also, traditionally the top layer is saved and eaten a year later on the 1st anniversary. But now, almost every bakery will make you a new cake with your wedding cake flavor for your anniversary {be sure to ask!!} - I think I would take a fresh cake over a one year old frozen one!

The costs of a wedding cake can vary quite a bit. There was a great post written by a local baker, click here to see it. Here are some specifics that might influence cost:

Fondant or buttercream
Ingredients

Flavors
Fruit fillings

Labor involved

Number of servings needed

Make sure to keep this in mind when ordering a cake. A sculpted cake with fondant is going to cost more than a simple tiered cake. You should order your cake anywhere from 3-6 months before your wedding. I say this is the best part of planning - you get to taste a bunch of cake!! A couple of tips - make sure you have a contract with the place you choose (size, flavors, design, cancellation policy, etc) and also inquire about a delivery/setup fee. To find out more tips or for recommendation, be sure to ask your wedding planner.

Interesting Fact Break: from here
"The world’s largest wedding cake is by Mohegan Sun Casino in Connecticut, measuring 17-ft tall and weighing 15,032 pounds. It is a seven-tiered vanilla-flavored cake decorated with bows and hearts. Ingredients include 10,000 pounds of cake batter and 4,810 pounds of creamy vanilla-almond frosting. The weight of the cake was more than five Volkswagen Beetles when compared. This cake can feed up to 59,000 people."

There are a ton of different bakeries and pastry shops in Denver, so check around and find someone that can design the kind of cake you want and has the flavors you want too {or is willing to make it for you}. If you ever need assistance in the cake department, call me, I am always open to going to cake tasting sessions! :) And because a post isn't a post without pictures, here are some awesome cakes!

PS. While I was researching information for this post, I saw one that mentioned the largest wedding attendance...it was...30,000 guests!! Can you imagine?? Oh my!

{That details is amazing!!}

Thanks to Intricate Icings and Revert Photo for the images; and Kelley Kakes for the article. Anyone have anything else to add to the post? Comment below! We love comments!

Danielle

Colorado Wedding Planner

Wordless Wednesday

2010-03-10T07:00:00.002-07:00

Danny Weiss Photo

The Costs

2010-03-09T08:52:00.004-07:00

I always see posts about “What does a wedding planner/coordinator do?”, "Do I need a wedding planner?" or “Why do planners cost so much?” I have heard so, so many people ask about what we do and I have seen a ton of posts about what we do for you. Here are a few:

Do I need a wedding planner?

Why do I need a wedding coordinator?

Please Hire a Wedding Planner

The other question, “Why do planners cost so much?” is not one that is addressed often (or at least how I am going to do it). I get countless emails from brides looking for a coordinator but do not want to invest in one, they just want something cheap (and that is all they look at). I may be overgeneralizing about brides a bit - but this is just what I have seen lately. I want to explain to brides/other vendors/parents why we cost what we do.

There was a very popular post (well, it was popular on twitter) about a month ago regarding a cheap photographer (I can't find the link right now but I will post it as soon as I get it). There was a bride not wanting to pay more than X amount and just wanted the CD, a TON of photographers got on her website and told her why professionals charge what they charge. It was definitely enlightening (I learned a couple things) and I thought it would be a good idea to do the same for a planner.

There is so much that goes into being a planner and a lot of it is behind the scenes! Here is just a glimpse of the time it takes to do our DOC (it is really longer than that more like 2-months-before-your-wedding-coordination-package) package.

1 hour getting materials ready for a consultation
1 hour spent emailing and confirming location/time
2 hours travel to and from the initial meeting
1 hour to organize client file – paper and computer – and input notes
1 hours (roughly) answering emails during the planning process
1 hour spent emailing to set up walkthrough
2 hours travel to and from walkthrough
3 hours conducting walkthrough and meeting
2 hours putting together your timeline
1 hour spent emailing to set up final meeting
2 hours travel to and from final meeting
1 ½ hour final meeting
1 ½ hour revising and making adjustments to final timeline
2 hour emailing all vendors
2 hour confirming all vendors
2 hours traveling to and from rehearsal
1 – 1 ½ hours for rehearsal
2 hours packing all items, printing materials and getting things ready to go
2 hours for travel to and from on your wedding day
8-10 hours on the wedding day – this is HARD labor
1 hour follow-up after the wedding
1 hour follow-up with vendors after the wedding
1 hour formatting and writing a blog post
1 hour uploading and getting photos from the photographer

Total of 45 hours spent just on our DOC package (this is an average DOC for me; it can be more and sometimes a little less). Take those hours and divide by the amount of the package, and you are just getting a glimpse of an hourly wage. And that is just the time – now think about gas and tune ups for the cars we drive (I put almost 15,000 miles on my car last year just doing weddings). There are other costs such as insurance, cell phone and internet bills, items for our emergency kits, materials for our packets, classes, putting together marketing materials, maintaining a website, etc. Not only that, but we take on the stress and responsibly on your wedding day – it is by far the most important thing we do. We are able to think quickly on our feet because of years of experience, come up with solutions outside of the box and make sure your day goes off without a hitch. After putting this all together, you can see why we charge what we do.

Being in demand, being well known for quality work, having a good reputation often costs time on the planner’s part. Their expertise comes at a cost, their time learning their craft and learning the intricacies of how to put together a wedding and the commitment put forth to build their business. These are all factors in our pricing. I hope this gives you a glimpse into what we do and why we charge what we do.

Danielle

Colorado Wedding Planner

Hiring a Wedding Planner - Fact or Fiction?

2010-03-05T07:00:00.000-07:00

I saw this great post on Twitter! I just had to share - click here!

Danielle

Broadmoor Wedding Planner

Wordless Wednesday

2010-03-03T07:00:00.002-07:00

Jean Tsai

Wish Upon A Wedding

2010-03-02T07:00:00.001-07:00

I love love love giving back, being a part of something greater than myself, and planning weddings. This is an awesome organization combines all three of these things. The Colorado chapter is coming soon and I can't wait to be involved in this organzation.

Wish Upon A Wedding was founded in San Francisco, CA, in January of 2010, by a group of wedding and business entrepreneurs and is America’s FIRST nonprofit wedding wish granting organization, producing weddings and civil union ceremonies at destinations across the United States for individuals facing terminal illness, regardless of sexual orientation.

Chapters:
Wish Upon A Wedding is now boasting twenty chapters nationwide, headed by some of the industry’s most renowned leaders with plans to expand to over 40 chapters worldwide.

Presidents:
Sasha Souza, National President & SF Bay Area President
Kevin Covey, LA/Orange County
Stella Inserra, New York
Ivy Robinson, The Carolinas
Eliana Baucicault, Atlanta
Mary Alice Sublett, Tennessee
Mark Kingsdorf, Philadelphia
Saundra Hadley, Indianapolis
Heather Hamilton Sims, Houston
Shelby Tuck Horton, DC
Elisa Delgardio, Orlando
Ali Phillips, Chicago
Daniela Isabella Ferdico Fagét, Seattle

Forming Additional Chapters:
Other chapters opening soon include Boston, Colorado, Arizona, Portland, Miami, St. Louis, Ohio and Nevada. We are also planning to open to chapters in other areas depending on need including international chapters. If you wish to start a chapter, please fill out the online form for consideration.

Who Is Behind Wish Upon A Wedding?
Many influential people in the industry are beginning to endorse Wish Upon A Wedding & you can find those endorsements on the website. There are also amazing people sitting on the Boards and Advisory Panel throughout the US such as Dana Larue Stiebel “Broke-Ass Bride” {LA Chapter PR Chair}, Leila Khalil {National PR Advisor}, Beth Helmstetter {National Outreach Director} just to name a few. They would love to have you join as well either as a board member or wish granter!

How We Grant Wishes:
To qualify for Wishes, applicants must be unmarried legal citizens of the United States, over the age of 18, who have been diagnosed with less than three years to live. Couples can be granted wishes either in the chapter where they live or in a chapter of their choosing as long as they are able to make the trip.

Couples can simply apply online to request one of three wedding types:

URGENT (Up to 10 guests, in hospital or at bedside);
BOUTIQUE (up to 25 guests, in home town of applicant);
ROMANTIC (Up to 50 guests, at any WUW destination)

How Can You Grant Wishes?
As the organization is building, Wish Granters are needed in all locations. Please apply online today to start helping Wedding Wishes come true. In two weeks, Wish Upon A Wedding will be granting the very first wish. To read more about that wish and the couple please visit the website.

Danielle

Colorado Wedding Planner

Winner, Winner Chicken Dinner!!

2010-03-01T12:21:00.004-07:00

WOW!! I had such a great response to the giveaway - more than any other year. As I was reading each entry, I could sympathize with each couple - I have been there. More than a couple brought tears to my eyes and made me want to be a part of each wedding day. Thank you all for sharing your stories with me. Please know that I wish I could help each and every one of you.

Now onto the winner...clearly I was not going to be able to pick a winner based on stories alone so I (well random.org, picked a number for me) randomly picked a number... and the winner is...

Emily and Jake!!

Congratulations to the lucky couple! I also have posted a TTD (trash the dress) Giveaway from a local Colorado photographer. Check out the post here.

Thanks again to everyone that entered.

Danielle

Colorado Wedding Planner

TTD Giveaway

2010-03-01T07:00:00.003-07:00

Networking is a big part of any business, including wedding planning. I am on twitter (SCEvents) and have been able to network with many people from around the country, as well as Colorado. You are able to share about yourself and your business without leaving your house. I have had the chance to meet some awesome people and learn from them.

One of the people I recently met on twitter was Scott Stebner from Scott Stebner Photography. He has been shooting weddings for 4 years and recently moved from California to Colorado. He is continuing his photography business here. Here is what Scott has to say about himself:

"I'm a wedding, documentary, and editorial photographer who just moved out from California to marry my fiance and can't wait! While I was in California, I photographed weddings that were on TLC's Rock the Reception and worked for a number of magazines and newspapers. I also work as a documentary and relief photographer for an organization I helped start called "FCC Ethiopia" where we raise money for rural villages in Ethiopia providing them with drinking water, irrigation, technology, school supplies, food relief, and life-saving medicine. 10% of all my photography goes towards providing children and mothers with clean, safe drinking water and food supply. To date we have raised over $250,000. "

We chatted over email and he informed me that he would like pair up with Something Classic Events to do a TTD giveaway!! Scott is going to give away 5 Trash the Dress sessions!

You might be asking, what is a Trash the Dress shoot? Well let me give you a short rundown. This is fun session where you are willing to do more with your gown than you might have been on your wedding day because you aren't worried about getting it dirty. From laying on the ground in dirt to jumping in a lake, these are things you might not do on your wedding (especially jumping in the lake!!). You dress won't get "trashed" but will get dirty. I have had many brides say everything comes out when the gown is taken to the cleaners.

Sound like fun? You bet it is! All you need to do is shoot Scott an email (scott@stebnerphotography.com) with your name and email address by Sunday March 7, 2010 and then 5 winners will be randomly selected. How easy is that! I wish you all the best of luck!

Danielle

Colorado Wedding Planner

Last day for the giveaway!

2010-02-28T13:02:00.005-07:00

I just wanted to remind you that today is the last day for our Day of Giveaway! The giveaway will closes this evening at 11:59 MST. We have had a great response so far and we are looking forward to helping one lucky couple!! The winner will be announced tomorrow! Here is the blog post regarding the contest. And no post is good without a picture.

Danielle

Colorado Wedding Planner

Wordless Wednesday

2010-02-24T07:00:00.001-07:00

Robert Hooper Photography

Giving Back

2010-02-22T12:30:00.002-07:00

As wedding season begins, I think about all of the opportunities I had over the past year. I have been fortunate to work with great vendors and even greater clients. Not everyone is able to have the best of the best, but they still deserve to have a great wedding. We, at Something Classic Events, feel that having a wedding coordinator is no longer a luxury but a necessity on your wedding day. That said, not everyone is able to afford a professional, experienced wedding planner so that is where our giveaway comes in. We have done this giveaway each year and I feel it is our way to give back. We are able to provide one couple with a professional planner so they are able to fully enjoy their wedding day. So without further ado, we introduce our 2010 Something Borrowed Package giveaway.

How to Enter:

Email: danielle.odil@somethingclassicevents.com and use GIVEAWAY as the subject.

Each entry form must answer the following questions:

• Your Name:
• Fiance’s Name:

• Email address:

• Phone number:

• Wedding Date:

• Wedding Location :

• Total wedding budget:

• Total # of guests expected:

• How did you choose your wedding venue? (250 words or less)

• Describe why having a wedding coordinator will make your day the best (250 words or less)

Entries will be accepted until February 28th, 2010 @ 11:59PM. Incomplete entries or entries received after this time will not be considered. One entry per couple.

Contest is not open to current clients or potential clients that have already contacted Something Classic Events. Contest is open nation-wide {if the winner is not in Colorado, they must provide travel and lodging to their wedding location}.

A winner will be chosen at random by March 1, 2010 and notified by email, then will be announced on our blog.

For exact package details, please look over the Something Borrowed Package on our website.

Good Luck!

Danielle

By entering this contest, you grant permission to Something Classic Events to use your first names only, photo, and wedding description on our blog. Winner must also consent to having a blog post written after their wedding date has past. Contact information will remain private.

{my life}

2010-02-19T17:44:00.001-07:00

In an effort to post more about myself, instead of just weddings, I am going to try to give you a little glimpse into my life. Hopefully this will enable you to know more about me and my family. So here we go!!

Sunday was Valentine's Day and we made special food for our little girl every meal that day - heart shaped pancakes, heart shaped peanut butter and jelly and heart shaped grilled cheese. For the rest of the week, she has been asking for everything to be served in heart shapes...cheese, apples, quesadilla, crackers...anything and everything. Unfortunately, I don't have a really small cookie cutter heart so some things she had to eat in the shape they come in.

My husband and I have been enjoying watching the Olympics. It also means we have been very sleepy this week. Our favorites have been the half pipe competitons. As a snowboarder myself {and not very good, if I may add}, I cannot believe some of the tricks they are pulling out. I don't think I could ever ever do any of the tricks they are doing - let along make it to the edge of the half pipe without falling. It is amazing!

I love to bake, and I mean love it! I don't bake too often because they end up going to waste {we aren't huge into cookies and cakes}. So when I have the opportunity to bake for other people, I take full advantage of it. This week, I need to bake some cookies and I decided I was going to do sugar cookies. I also decided I wanted to frost them in a way I have never tried - flooding. My obession, yes obession, with this type of icing came from a blog I follow called Bake at 350. She has some AMAZING cookies on the site. Anyway, I used her cookie and icing recipe and I think they came out great - at least for a first attempt. I was pretty impressed with myself. After reading some of the comments on her blog, I was scared about icing them. It seemed like the littlest thing could throw them off - temperature, humidity or overbeating. Luckily, I seemed to dodge all of these. Although I could use some more practice. Below are some pictures of my creations!

My little one helping me rolls out the dough...

The outline...

The finished product!

Danielle

Wordless Wednesday

2010-02-17T06:30:00.003-07:00

Bobbi+Mike

Wordless Wednesday

2010-02-10T07:00:00.004-07:00

Ardent Photography

Engagement!

2010-02-08T12:01:00.004-07:00

We are thrilled to be a part of Kassendra and Brandon's wedding in August. Here are some of their engagement pictures taken by the talented Autumn Burke.

To see more of their engagement, head over to her blog.

Danielle
Breckenridge Wedding Planner

Wordless Wednesday (a day late...and a few words)

2010-02-04T12:25:00.004-07:00

I follow a TON of blogs, really it is insane, my google reader constantly reminds me that I have over 1000 unread entries. But quite a few of the bloggers do a feature on Wednesday called Wordless Wednesday. I wanted to join so here is my first post.

The pictures is from a photographer I follow, Shannon Montez. She says it is not photoshopped and is SOC (straight out of the camera). I LOVE it and would to know how she did it (and secretly wish I could)! Any photographers want to fill me in?

Save the Dates

2010-02-04T09:02:00.010-07:00

Also known as STD's, although I prefer not to call them that, doesn't sound good. Save the Dates are something you send to your guest list anywhere from six months to eight months, even one year, before your wedding day. This is an opportunity to inform your guests (especially out of town guests) when and where your wedding will be so they can plan accordingly. If you have a website, it is a good idea to include it on your save the date. Guests are then able to see more information about your wedding, including times and locations of your ceremony and reception. You should put your room block information on your website, so out of town guests can find the hotels you have blocks at and be able to book rooms. Also, this can give guests an idea of what to expect at the wedding in terms of color and/or style. If you have not yet decided on what that will be, then send something simple. If you have decided, make sure your save the date will match the rest of your stationary items, including your invite and inserts, program, escort card, and menu - make sure they have a coheasive look.

There are a TON of different save the dates out there and I wanted to share some different and creative ones with you.

Not sure I would recommend this, but it still is a little fun!

LOVE this!

What do you do for your save the date? Share you ideas with everyone! Have fun and be creative!

Danielle

Colorado Wedding Planner

Source Source Source Source Source

Invitations

2010-02-02T07:50:00.005-07:00

I have an obession with paper products, it's a sickness. I love the idea of scrapbooking and card making, but when I sit down to do it (I haven't sat down to do this in a loooooong time), I go blank and don't know where to start. When I was getting married, I made all of our invitations, around 150 of them. I was very very anal about how they looked, I even hot glued the bows so they would lay just right. My husband thought I was nuts but I loved it doing. Sometimes I think about doing custom invites for my clients, but I don't know where I would find the time. So, I leave that to the invitiation designers.

Today, I am joining with Invite Only to host a special discount on invitations for my blog readers. Amanda was a bride of mine a few years ago and since has started her own custom stationary business. Here is what she has to say about herself and her business:

"In December 2005, I was proposed to by the man of my dreams. We spent the next 20 months planning and preparing for our big day. My favorite part (besides the " I DO's", of course) was creating our invitations. It allowed us to give our guests a preview of our special day.

I have always enjoyed creating invitations for all of life's occasions. Invite Only has given me the opportunity to share my creativity with others and to help bring the vision of their event to life. Invitations set the tone and create excitement for your event. I want to make your first impression a great one!

At Invite Only, we will work with you to create not only a special invitation for your event, but a keepsake that you and your guests will cherish forever!"

So her speical for my blog readers is this:

Sweetheart Special:
I will be offering a 15% discount on orders placed through February 15th. The first three brides to place their invitation order prior to February 15th will receive 25% off of their order!

How awesome is that!! She does fantastic work and is able to help you come up with a custom design that showcases your wedding to your guests. I would definitely take advantage of this deal.

Danielle
Colorado Wedding Planner

Engagement Pictures - Laura and David

2010-01-29T08:49:00.006-07:00

Meet Laura and David. They are getting married this October and I cannot wait for their wedding. Remember the Autumn Night inspiration board I did, well it was for them! I had such a great time talking with Laura and I am thrilled they chose me to help them on their wedding day. Their engagement pictures were taken by the always awesome Becky of Becky Young Photography. (And thank you Becky for the referral! :) )Enjoy!!

Danielle

Boulder Wedding Planner

Wedding Trivia

2010-01-27T14:57:00.003-07:00

I thought do a fun post today about wedding trivia. There are definitely some interesting ones! Enjoy!!

Longest Engagement
Octavio Guillen and Adriana Martinez were engaged for 67 years

Oldest Brides
The oldest recorded bride was Minnie Munro, married at 102 years of age. Minnie, from Australia, wed a “spring chicken” of 82.

Britain's oldest recorded bride was just one day off her 100th birthday when marrying a man nearly 20 years younger.

Longest marriage on record
Sir Temulji Nariman and his wife Lady Nariman were married for a grand total of 86 years. They were both were aged just five when they got married.

Most number of vows taken
Richard and Carole Roble, a pair of New Yorkers, have taken their vows 55 times. To add variety they have had ceremonies in different locations, including all 50 states.

Largest Mass Wedding
In Seoul in 1992, 21,000 couples from the Moonie cult all got married on the same day. The event was also 'attended' by another 9,800 couples who took their vows via a satellite link.

Largest Wedding Attendance
30,000 attended a Jewish wedding in Jerusalem in 1993.

Longest Wedding Dress Train
The longest train for a Wedding dress was found in Germany. It measured 515 feet.

Married the most times
Glynn Scotty Wolfe, a former Baptist minister, has taken 28 brides - and divorced 27 of them.

The English believe a spider found in a wedding dress means good luck. Yikes!

In English tradition, Wednesday is considered the "best day" to marry, although Monday is for wealth and Tuesday is for health.

In Holland, a pine tree is planted outside the newlyweds' home as a symbol of fertility and luck.

Engagement and wedding rings are worn on the fourth finger of the left hand because it was once thought that a vein in that finger led directly to the heart.

About 70% of all brides sport the traditional diamond on the fourth finger of their left hand.

In the symbolic language of jewels, a sapphire in a wedding ring means marital happiness.

A pearl engagement ring is said to be bad luck because its shape echoes that of a tear.

Seventeen tons of gold are made into wedding rings each year in the United States!

Most expensive wedding ever? The marriage of Sheik Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum's son to Princess Salama in Dubai in May 1981. The price tag? $44 million.

The tradition of a wedding cake comes from ancient Rome, where revelers broke a loaf of bread over a bride's head for fertility's sake.

The custom of tiered cakes emerged from a game where the bride and groom attempted to kiss over an ever-higher cake without knocking it over.

In many cultures around the world -- including Celtic, Hindu and Egyptian weddings -- the hands of a bride and groom are literally tied together to demonstrate the couple's commitment to each other and their new bond as a married couple (giving us the popular phrase "tying the knot").

The bride stands to the groom's left during a Christian ceremony, because in bygone days the groom needed his right hand free to fight off other suitors.

On average, 7,000 couples marry each day in the United States.

Danielle
Colorado Wedding Planner

Source Source

What should I do now?!

2010-01-25T07:37:00.003-07:00

Your boyfriend just proposed and he is now your fiance!!! Yipee! You probably have been waiting for this day for a long time and you are excited to begin planning your wedding. You have so many thoughts running through your head:

How many guests should we invite?
What day should we get married?
Who should I ask to be my bridesmaids?
What month should we get married?
What colors should we use?

Before you start making any decisions, you should sit down with your fiance and talk about what the two of you want for your wedding. Small or large? Formal or informal? Fall or Spring or Winter or Summer? Outside or Inside? This is about the two of you; make sure you are both comfortable with your plans for the wedding. Nothing needs to be set in stone, but it will be easier to plan the wedding when you have this conversation.

Then the next step to talk with whomever may be helping you out financially. This should be a frank and honest discussion about what the budget for the wedding will be. There is nothing worse than to start planning your wedding and find out you don't have the funds to match the places you are looking at. You can also discuss with them what you and your fiance spoke about as well, so there are well aware of what kind of wedding you want to have. During this discussion, there should also be some talk about what the guest list might look like (depending on who you are speaking with). This will be important when finding a venue - you don't want to end up with a place that only hold 100 if you are planning on 175 guests (unless of course, this is what you want for your wedding).

If you are planning on hiring a wedding planner, now is the time. You have discussed your wedding with your family and you have your budget, now you will be begin planning your wedding. It is estimated that planning can take upwards of 200 hours to plan, on top of that you might be working, finishing school, and other daily life happenings. With all of that going on, you may not have the capability to compare all the options. A wedding planner can save you time and energy because we have contact with many vendors around Colorado and we can help you select ones that are within your budget and style. You make all of the decisions, we just guide and assist you in make those decisions. Happy Planning!

Danielle

Colorado Wedding Planner

Favors

2010-01-22T07:30:00.001-07:00

One of the most common questions I get is about wedding favors. Should I have them at all?What should I do? How many should I do?

My answers are:

Give one if you want to
I recommend something edible - otherwise they tend to get left (not always, but quite often)
One per couple (depending on what is it and cost)

Giving your guest a favor is a small token of appreciation for attending the wedding and, depending on what it is, can possibly serve as a souvenir from the wedding as well. In many cultures, there are specifics favors given and they have a meaning behind them as well.

Sugar-coated almonds are a traditional wedding favor in many cultures, particularly in Italian, Greek, and Middle Eastern. These treats, which are thought to symbolize the bitter and the sweet in marriage, are often present in combinations of three or five. Three almonds are said to represent the husband, wife and hoped-for child. Five almonds stand for health, wealth, happiness, longevity and fertility.
At traditional Armenian weddings, a godmother may collect money for the couple from guests, and in turn distribute gifts of dried fruit and nuts.
On the wedding day, traditional Chinese couples hold tea cermonies with their parents. Today, some Chinese-American couples give out delicate teacups or fragrant tea bags in a nod to tradition.
Guests are highly respected in Japan, where a bride and groom may spend $50 or more per guest on gifts, called hikidemono. Less pricey are the kohaku manjyu, round steamed buns with bean paste filling, which are often presented in pairs to guests, one red bun and one white bun.
Russian wedding guests generally receive thank you gifts, which may range in extravagance from candy to bud vases.
At a traditional Malaysian wedding, guests may be presented with fertility symbols in the form of decorated hard-boiled eggs.
In some regions of Switzerland, a godmother will distribute red handkerchiefs to guests, who donate coins for the couple in return.

That is just a few ideas. I love the couple that ties in their state where they grew up, like I had a bride do this awesome candy from Arkansas because that was where she was from. Make it about the two of you and not just some random meaningless trinket.

Danielle
Colorado Wedding Planner

Here

Autumn Night Wedding

2010-01-20T09:19:00.000-07:00

I met with a bride last week and we spoke about what she planning for her wedding. Among the many things we spoke about, one thing we hit on was her color palette. She is planning an October wedding and wants to stay away from the traditional fall colors of red, orange, and brown. Instead, she is doing an Autumn Evening using blue, purple and silver. I love this and I can't wait to see it take shape over the next several months. I had some things in mind for her so I put together this board for her to draw some inspiration from. Here is what I came up with.

Danielle
Colorado Wedding Planner

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

Bride's Choice Award

2010-01-19T12:19:00.004-07:00

Denver, Colorado – January 19, 2010
WeddingWire, the nation’s leading wedding technology company, just announced Something Classic Events has been selected to receive the 2010 Bride’s Choice Awards™ for Something Classic Events.

The annual Bride’s Choice Awards™ recognizes and celebrates excellence in quality and service within the wedding industry, as determined by recent reviews and extensive surveys from over 500,000 newlyweds.

Something Classic Events is among the top five percent of all vendors in the WeddingWire community, which includes over 100,000 wedding professionals across the US and Canada. Awards were given to winners across 19 different service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers.

“We are excited to recognize and honor the success of the top wedding professionals within the WeddingWire Community” said Timothy Chi, WeddingWire’s Chief Executive Officer. “The annual Bride’s Choice Awards™ program has given us the unique opportunity to highlight the best wedding professionals in each region as reviewed by brides and grooms who have utilized their services in the past year.”

We are happy to announce that Something Classic Events is among the very best Wedding Planner within the WeddingWire Network, which includes WeddingWire and Martha Stewart Weddings. We would like to thank our past newlyweds for nominating us for the 2010 Bride’s Choice Awards™.

For more information, please visit our WeddingWire Storefront today.

About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding vendors. WeddingWire enables engaged couples to search, compare and book over 100,000 reviewed wedding vendors nationwide, from wedding photographers to wedding cakes. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools, including wedding websites and wedding checklists, all at no charge. For wedding vendors, WeddingWire provides free online management tools creating the only market opportunity that gives businesses control over their clients, reviews, leads and performance. In addition, WeddingWire has partnered with Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO) to provide its network of local vendors and online wedding-planning tools in the Weddings section of http://www.marthastewartweddings.com/. For additional information, please visit http://www.weddingwire.com/.

"Off-Season"

2010-01-13T07:57:00.001-07:00

The “off” season.

The time between November and March. The time when the whole industry gets to take a breather. Suddenly the days upon days of meetings and walkthroughs, becomes a couple days a week instead of several. You have time to refocus and reflect on last season.

This time of year is definitely slower than the rest of the year. But there is still a lot to do. From meeting new clients, revamping packages and marketing materials to organizing the office, learning new techniques, and reconnecting with other vendors, new and old. There is no shortage of tasks that need attention.

My office has not been touched since last March, so there is a plethora of things to sort through and look at. Although, it is not one of my favorite tasks, it is fun in a way. I find all of the stuff from the weddings from the year - their timelines, my notes and the effects of their wedding. I am reminded of the day, the couple and all the people I worked with. I sit for hours and read all of the notes on each wedding and I remember how much I love doing this…and how thankful I am that I get to do what I love doing. I also try to think of what was difficult about the wedding, was there not enough time for one thing or how did the setup go or what could I have done better; I want to learn something from each wedding so I am able to better serve my future clients.

As I relive my year through timelines and notes, I can’t help but think “this year was amazing!” We had the pleasure of working with some remarkable couples and vendors. This was by far our busiest year and we are looking forward to continuing that trend as the year(s) go on.

Here are just a few pictures of the people we got to spend our year with. Thank you to all of our clients for letting us be a part of your wedding day. Thank you to the “off season” for reminding me how much I love doing this.

Sara and Scott - Karie McLain Photography

Stacey and Mike - Paige Elizabeth

Sue and Craig - Kokoro Photography

Katy and Bryan - Real Photography
{Their wedding will be featured in the Knot Magazine in 2010!}

Amanda and Mike - Dana Romanoff Photography

Francesca and Dave - Becky Young Photography

Kelly and Jeff - Laura Dombrowski Photography

Danielle

Colorado Wedding Planner

Wedding Trends of 2010

2010-01-06T14:40:00.004-07:00

As 2010 begins, everyone is looking for what will be hot this year. Here are a few things I have seen around the internet and heard from other planners.

Keep an eye on details
Birdcage Veils
Mismatched bridesmaids dresses
Home weddings - backyard weddings, intimate settings and smaller guest lists
Buttercream for your cake instead of fondant
Personalized appreciation - have a favor or an out of town bag for your guests
Nearby destination weddings
Colors - monochromatic palattes, vibrant colors (pink, orange, green) and metal colors (gold, silver, bronze and pewter); black will also remain a trendy color
Greener weddings - make you wedding more eco-friendly
Landscape centerpieces
Amazing Dances - we have all seen the show "Rock My Reception", your guests love to see something unexpected and something that shows off who are as a couple
Knee length (or shorter dresses) for the bride
Shorter cocktail hour - think 30 minutes cocktail "hour"
Humerous photography - yes, you can still all of the traditional shots, but why not have some fun? The day is about fun, right?
Sharing your wedding on social media - how could this not be a trend?
Seeing each other prior to the ceremony
Individual cakes for your guests - love this idea! Can I get one too? :)
Wedding Website
Photo Booth - make sure to have a lot of props on hand!!
Capture the moments - spend money on good photographers and videographers

But whatever you end up doing for your wedding day, make sure that it is YOU! Make sure it feels right to you and that you aren't doing it just because it is trendy. Your wedding should be about the two of you, as a couple. Always keep that in mind.

Danielle

Sources: Here Here Here Here

Happy New Year!!

2009-12-31T14:29:00.002-07:00

We want to wish everyone a Happy New Year!

This has been an incredible year for us at Something Classic Events. We helped so many couples make their wedding dreams come true. We increased our business over 125% from 2008, which is huge considering we do virtually no advertising (thank you to all of our past brides for telling people about us!!). We also hired a new associate planner, Christina, to work with us. She is amazing and has been a great addition to the team. One of the weddings we did this summer is in the current issue of The Knot Colorado magazine and another wedding we did will be in Fall/Winter 2010 issue of The Knot magazine. We have been incredibly blessed this year and it is all thanks to the amazing couple and vendors we worked with. We are looking forward to next year and all that it brings!

Wishing You...

2009-12-25T00:02:00.004-07:00

From all of us here at Something Classic Events, we wish you and yours a Merry Christmas! We hope you are able to fully enjoy this special time of year with your family and loved ones.

Picture from here

Winter Wedding Inspiration Board

2009-12-09T15:11:00.000-07:00

I love winter and I love winter weddings. I almost had one myself until my husband talked me out of it. So because of the winter like weather we have had of late, I decided to make a winter wedding inspiration board. Enjoy!

Danielle

1. Here 2. Here 3. Here 4. Here 5. Here 6. Here 7. Here 8. Here 9. Here 10. Here 11. Here 12. Here 13. Here 14. Here 15. Here

The Knot

2009-12-04T08:36:00.000-07:00

I was looking through the recent edition of The Knot Colorado edition and I stumbled upon one of our brides! Sarah and John were married on June 20, 2009 this year and their wedding was coordinated by Maryann, one of our consultants. It was a complete surprise! Congrats for the two of them! Their ceremony was at Corpus Christi Roman Catholic Church and the reception was at the gorgeous Garden of the Gods Club in Colorado Springs. We were so honored to be a part of their wedding day.