‘True Alabama Couple’ Photo Contest Winners

Congratulations to the winners of our ‘True Alabama Couple’ Photo Contest! Last month, we asked our Facebook fans to submit a photo that shows their love for each other as a couple as well as our great state of Alabama. We saw some beautiful entries and enjoyed the absolutely adorable proposal stories, but only the Top 3  with the most votes were presented to our editorial team to make the final decision. Now we are proud to announce our winners, whose weddings will all be featured on the AWM website with the release of our new issue in 2014! Drumroll please . . .

Our Grand Prize winners, Mandy and John, have won a one-page Real Wedding feature in our 2014 issue! There image evoked undeniable emotion that captured our eye immediately. The landscape and barn in the background complete the look that totally captures the idea of a true Alabama couple. We are thrilled to share the details of their wedding in the magazine and hope you are inspired by their Southern soiree. Congratulations Mandy and John!

First Place winners, Sarah and Brett, are very fortunate to work with the talented Main Street Productions on a Love Story video that will share their story of meeting, falling in love and starting their life together. We think this is especially perfect because Sarah and Brett have an interesting story that seems nothing short of fate. Sometimes, two people really are just meant to be together! Once it is complete, we can’t wait to share this Love Story video, which is a unique piece that can be shown at a rehearsal dinner, shared on social media and kept for years to relive the reason why you first fell in love over and over again.

Thank you again to all our contestants as well as everyone that voted. We love getting to interact with our readers and sharing your stories. In fact, we want to share more of your stories! We only have so much space in the magazine for Real Weddings, but the AWM Blog has plenty of room to spare. That’s right, we are now opening the blog for submitting your weddings to be featured on our website. We will be posting 2-4 weddings each month that we think would be great inspiration for all Southern brides. For more information about how to submit a wedding, see all the details here.


Image: R I Weddings

 

Inspiration Board: June 2013

 

 June is here! With warm summer days, poolside lounging and outdoor frivolity, one may forget that we’ve entered the peak of wedding season – except, of course, for our dedicated vendors that are making dreams of wedded bliss come true across the South. For this month’s inspiration board, we look to the jovial color board, Honey Bee, by Design-Seeds.com. The bright pinks and oranges with a tinge of deep indigo are great to flood a wedding with color that makes guests feel giddy. See our board with content from our 2013 issue to start drumming up beautiful ideas for a summer soiree!

1. Stationery: Alan’s Invitations + Photography: Jerrod Brown Studios
2. Bridesmaid Dresses: Bella Bridesmaid + Bridal Gown: The Something Blue Shoppe + Venue: The Sonnet Houses + Photography: Gretchen B. Photography
3. Event/Floral Design: Christopher Joseph Designs + Lighting/Draping: A.G. Lighting + Photography: R I Weddings
4. Bridal Gown: The White Room + Floral Design: Dana’s Floral Design: Photography: Jerrod Brown Studios
5. Event Design: KG Designs + Catering: Kathy G. & Co. + Flower Girl Attire: La Shea + Photography: Wynter Photography
6. Groomsman’s Ties: Mr. Burch Formal Wear + Styling: Christopher Confero Design + Photography: R I Weddings
7. Floral Design & Wedding Planner: Catherine Wayman at The Carraway-Davie House + Catering: Corretti Catering at The Carraway-Davie House + Venue: The Carraway-Davie House + Photography: Jessica Wright
8. Catering: Kathy G. & Co. + Wedding Planner: M. Elizabeth Events + Photography: Daniel Taylor Photography
9. Cake: Olexa’s Cafe, Cakes and Catering + Photography: R I Weddings
10. Event Design: Dana’s Floral Design + Lighting/Draping: A.G. Lighting + Photography: Nick Fronteiro Productions

 

‘True Alabama Couple’ Photo Contest


Want to see your wedding featured in the pages of Alabama Weddings Magazine 2014? Well our ‘True Alabama Couple’ Photo Contest is your opportunity to do just that and it’s super simple. If your wedding occurs between Nov. 2012 – September 2013, just make sure you already ‘Like’ AWM on Facebook and head over to our contest app. Enter your necessary contact information and prepare to upload a photo that represents the bride and groom’s true Alabama style along with a short story about your proposal. Make sure you have your photographer’s permission to use an image. Once you’ve submitted your entry, make sure all of your family and friends vote for you here! Voting closes on June 7, 2013. The three images with the most votes with make it our finalists’ round to be judged by our editorial board. Best of all, you have three chance to win:

  • Grand Prize: A one-page Real Wedding Feature in AWM 2014 AND a feature on the AWM website.
  • First Prize: A Love Story video by Main Street Productions AND a feature on the AWM website.
  • Second Prize: A feature on the AWM website.

 

 

See our contest 2011 winners, Chad & Kayla Bates, featured in AWM 2012!

Bridal Gown: Bella Couture.  Groom & Groomsmen Attire: Mr. Burch Formalwear. Catering & Cake: Cakes by Audrey. Ceremony & Reception Venue: The Alabama Theatre. Photography: Studio G. Photography. Floral Design: Gloria’s Arrangements. Stationery: Fine Paperwork. Entertainment: Mark Shadix. Transportation: Vintage Auto Chauffeur. Registry: Belk & Bed, Bath and Beyond.

 

Hoot Hoot Night Owl Paper Goods!

We recently had the joy to check our mailbox at the AWM office and discover a bag of unusual stationery goodness from Night Owl Paper Goods! These positively Southern pieces not only have the right look, but also the perfect feel for a wedding inspired by rustic barns, garden flowers and fried green tomatoes. Best of all, they are printed on eco-friendly, sustainably-harvested birch wood for the couple in a “green” frame of mind. With a huge variety of options of artwork and colors, you can achieve any look you want. Even if not, you have the option to have Night Owl print your own design on wood for a truly customized look. For more information, take a peek at their Wood Wedding Collection and see even more stationery options here.

 

AWM Extra: Cakes

Whenever we do photo shoots for our upcoming issue, we inevitably shoot more than we could possibly fit in the pages of AWM. Some things get left on the editing floor and we just can’t stand to leave them there to gather dust. Throughout the year, we will be bringing you AWM Extras to highlight some of the bits and pieces you didn’t see in this year’s publication. Today, we will let you eat cake – or just see it at least. Our fabulous cake designers brought the goods for our tone-on-tone cake shoot last year that included a few ready-to-serve slices of yummy goodness. Take a peek for a bit of confect-spiration!


Gia’s Cakes | Chocolate cake with toasted marshmallow filling and chocolate buttercream.


Gia’s Cakes | Neapolitan cake with vanilla buttercream.


Barb’s Cakes | Strawberry and vanilla layered cake iced with cream cheese buttercream. Adorned with strawberry cakepops dipped in white chocolate, drizzled in light pink white chocolate and painted with edible pearl dust. Topped with bride and groom cake pop.


Barb’s Cakes | Apricot cake with textured buttercream icing accented with fondant ribbon dusted in luster dust.


Sweet Spot Confections | Almond cake with traditional buttercream. Every other tier of this 7-tier cake is covered with sugar crystals and the others with a damask piping print. Adorned with fondant flowers with silver button centers and handmade fondant ruffles.


Sweet Spot Confections | 1. Yellow cream cake with coral French buttercream with textured turquoise buttercream and fresh flowers. | 2. An Auburn-inspired cake, perfect for the War Eagle groom.

Olexa’s Cafe, Cakes & Catering | Tangerine buttercream-covered with coconut cake and toasted coconut cream filling, with handmade fondant botanicals and handmade edible pearls.

Photography: Frank Carnaggio Photography with Nicole Muro
China & Flatware: Bromberg’s
Styling: Christopher Confero Design

 

Inspiration Board: April

Have you seen it yet? Our summer 2013 cover has hit newsstands, featuring a gorgeous bouquet by Lillie’s for Christopher Confero Design‘s Signature Style shoot at Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Of course, the lavender and green tones were our focus for our April inspiration board, which matched very well with Design-Seeds.com’s Spring Brights palette. If you see anything you just love, be sure to Pin it!

1. AWM 2013 Summer Cover | Bouquet Design: Lillie’s + Event Design: Christopher Confero Design    + Bridal Gown: Heidi Elnora + Photography: Wynter Photography
2. Floral Design: Barbara’s Wedding Shoppe + Photography: Eternal Reflections Photography
3. Floral Design: K.G. Designs by Kathy G. & Co. + Wedding Planner: AK Brides + Photography: Frank Carnaggio Photography
4. Floral Design: Christopher Confero Design + Men’s Fashion: Mr. Burch Formal Wear + Photography: R I Weddings
5. Floral Design: Barbara’s Wedding Shoppe + Bridesmaid Gown: The Something Blue Shoppe +  Photography: Eternal Reflections Photography
6. Floral Design: Stemz Florist + Photography: Photography by Shea
7. Stationery: Amberly Shelton Print Design & Paperie + Event Design: Christopher Confero Design + Rentals: Event Rentals Unlimited + Photography: Wynter Photography
8. Catering: Kathy G. & Co. + Photography: Wynter Photography
9. Cake: Olexa’s Cafe, Cakes & Catering + Photography: Breanna Fogg Photography

 

Heidi Elnora presents ‘Heavenly Days’

On Monday night of Birmingham Fashion Week, Heidi Elnora (co-founder of BFW) previewed her 2013 collection ‘Heavenly Days’ at Avondale Villa. The setting was intimate and we were thrilled to be part of the night to see this collection come to fruition. Terry Bruno of Fotowerks Custom Photography was with us again to capture the moment. Heidi shared that the inspiration for the styling of the show came from ‘Snow White and the Huntsman.’ We knew then we would be in for a treat and she certainly delivered! The hair and makeup was completed by a team led by Jeremy Stephens, founder of the Association of Independent Artists.

Heidi’s designs are completely unique and for the girl looking for a gown that stands apart from the crowd. As a local Alabama designer, all the pieces are made by hand and give a bride the attention to detail that should be expected for such a special garment.

The first looks began with sweet, serene styling that became increasingly dark and avant-garde. The final model in the exquisite Opal Byrd gown walked the runway complete with antlers sporting strands of pearls.

For the final look, all the models lined the runway, making one path for the Opal Byrd to come to the head of the line in regal fashion. Of course, the crowd gave a standing ovation as Heidi took to the runway for high fives and hugs from her husband and children. Have we mentioned Heidi’s spirit is contagious?

Heidi Elnora’s ‘Heavenly Days’ has us excited to see what she whips together for 2014! Thanks again to Terry Bruno of Fotowerks Custom Photography for being with us. Congratulations to those who got to see this show take the main tent of BFW later in the week. For more information about Heidi Elnora and even wearing one of her gowns on your wedding day, visit heidielnora.com. See the full show captured by Holloway Productions:

 

BFW Bridal Atelier 2013

In February, Bromberg’s in downtown Birmingham opened its doors to host Birmingham Fashion Week‘s Bridal Atelier 2013. With plenty of natural light pouring into the second floor runway show, some of Alabama’s finest bridal and bridesmaid fashion boutiques presented designs to grab the attention of brides-to-be and their guests. Terry Bruno of Fotowerks Custom Photography came with us to snag photos of the models as they came down the runway and we’ve selected some of our favorite looks for those of you who couldn’t attend. We also were sure to keep an eye on looks to appear in our 2014 issue as well of course!

BFW Bella Bridesmaid

Bella Bridesmaid started the show with fun, bold colors and a few floral patterns. Their looks had an easiness to them that we highly encourage for your bridal party. Your bridesmaids should look elegant without having to be miserable all day. In the cobalt gown is Vi Vo, voted as the Face of Bridal Day for Birmingham Fashion Week!

BFW Ivory & White

Ivory & White Bridal Boutique’s dramatic gowns brought full, layered skirts with bodices that sported a touch a sparkle. When it comes to bridal bling, a little can go a long way. Too much beading and stoning quickly adds weight to a gown and can really be a drag during a long wedding day. When you try on a gown, remember it has to be worn for a long time unless you opt for a quick costume change before the party gets started.

Bella Couture continued the show with plenty of very Southern lace treatments, especially with shoulder details. This style gown is a much more fitting option for daytime weddings. If the term “a Pinterest-y wedding” is all that’s all your mind, this may be the way to go for your bridal gown.

BFW - Ivy & Aster

Special guest, Ivy & Aster, brought the unexpected styling of the day in both their bridesmaid and bridal looks. Their bridesmaids sported extremely fun “confetti” tights and the occasional shrug (which we loved!)

BFW - Ivy & Aster

Ivy & Aster’s bridal collection had edge. Pairing soft, femme gowns with leather jackets and metal collar chokers had our eyes wide open. For the full line-up, all the girls donned heart-shaped glasses that had us scrambling to find our own pairs the next day. The looks certainly reminded us that there with every bride there is always a girl with a multi-faceted personality. There’s nothing wrong with still being yourself on your wedding day. If you need to rock the leather jacket because that’s just you, then do it. Your wedding day should be yours and no one else’s.

We were so glad to be part of this year’s BFW Bridal Atelier and look forward to seeing a great crowd again next year. They’ll bring the gowns and we’ll bring the mags. All you have to do is save the date! Next year, Birmingham Fashion Week will be in April. Like BFW on Facebook to get the full schedule once it’s released. Thanks again to Terry Bruno of Fotowerks Custom Photography for photographing these amazing fashions! Look for our next post on Heidi Elnora’s avant-garde preview show of Heavenly Days at Avondale Villa!

 

Inspiration Board: March 2013

March is here and we are absolutely stoked for spring. The winter chill is finally starting to give way to sweet, sunny day. For the AWM family, that means we are officially beginning work for our 2014 issue. This is the time when we begin bringing our ideas to the table and building editorial shoot teams for the rest of the year. For our inspiration board this month, we look to design-seeds.com’s Macaron Memory palette. Shades of green, a nice tone of oatmeal and peach are the perfect pick.

1. Stationery: Weddings Etc. + Photography: Arden Photography

2. Floral Design: KG Designs by Kathy G. & Co. + Wedding Planner: M. Elizabeth Events + Photography:  j. messer photography

3. Bridal Gown: The White Room + Bridesmaid Gowns: Bella Bridesmaid + Floral Design: Flowerbuds + Photography: j. messer photography

4. Men’s Fashion: Mr. Burch Formal Wear + Boutonniere: Christopher Confero Design + Photography: R I Weddings

5. Floral Design: Lillie’s + Photography: Arden Photography

6. Catering: Kathy G. & Co. + Floral Design: KG Designs by Kathy G. & Co. + Photography: j. messer photography

7. Floral Design: Dana’s Floral Design + Rentals: Special Events: A Game Day Tent Co. + Venue: Alley Station + Photography: R I Weddings

8. Cake: Barb’s Cakes + Floral Design: KG Designs by Kathy G. & Co. + Wedding Planner: M. Elizabeth Events + Photography: Daniel Taylor Photography

 

Take your wedding to the Web

Think of any big event you’ve attended – a benefit for a cause, a university sporting event, or a corporate party. Availability of information is key to make these events successful. Your wedding is not much different than any of those same events. It may be on a smaller scale, but your guests will be much more comfortable if they have a central point of reference for all details of your wedding day. Sometimes it just doesn’t all fit on the invitation, and we all know things can change as the date gets closer. A wedding website is a tool that connects guests with all information, can be updated quickly and has never been easier to create with the help of Gretchen B. Photography!

Traces of Love by Gretchen B.Photography is offering the opportunity to have a beautiful, professional website for your wedding without any hassle. In fact, all you need to do is complete a questionnaire and attach a few images and she does the rest! You can have a website live and functional with 7-10 business days without any worry. Besides just sharing directions to all locations, hotel booking details, registry locations and the option to RSVP online, you can also share images of your wedding afterwards for two years. Renew your annual hosting contract to keep sharing the memories after the initial two years. Even better, you won’t have any pesky ads begging for your guests attention. From now through March 31, 2013, you can have a website created for only $325 (regular price is $450) with Traces of Love. Since seeing is believing, peruse this site created by Gretchen!

To get more information about creating a website with Traces of Love, call 205.999.3531 or email gretchen@gretchenbphotography.com.

 

Confero University

So who doesn’t want to have all the know-how to plan their own gorgeous and perfect wedding? When you look at all the details that have to come together for an event, brides may start to realize they just don’t know it all quite yet and that feeling can be quite overwhelming. Fortunately, our friends at Christopher Confero Design have partnered with some amazing vendors to put together an educational experience for brides-to-be called Confero University.

According to Christopher Confero, Confero U. students can expect more than just a bridal show at this event. “Confero University is an exclusive collaboration designed to offer brides-to-be insight into highly coveted industry secrets and over-the-top inspiration for their big day,” said Confero. It all starts with a meet-and-greet mixer night hosted by Engaged, A Wedding Library on Friday, March 8 and continues with a full day of hearing from top professionals in roundtable discussions, small group seminars and even sampling sweets on Saturday, March 9 at The Summit Club. The best part for us is the day concluding with a commencement address from our very own Michelle V. Tubbs, AWM’s publisher and editor-in chief! There’s sure to be glass of champagne or two as well.

Some of the professors and partners are also AWM advertisers that contribute to our fantastic photo shoots, including: A.G. Lighting, Arden Photography, Bella Bridesmaid, Bromberg’s, Engaged A Wedding Library, Event Rentals Unlimited, Gia’s Cakes, Holloway ProductionsIvory & White Bridal Boutique, Kathy G. & Co., Lillie’s, Melissa Moore Bogardus & Team, The Summit Club and more!

You can see all the information about tuition and accommodation options as well as the full syllabus on the Confero U. website. We are very excited for this amazing event and can’t wait to see you there!

 

White Dresses to host Rosa Clará trunk show

Brides on the hunt for their perfect bridal gown should take note of trunk show dates on the AWM Events calendar. At a trunk show, designers bring all their newest and best pieces to local boutiques to give brides an opportunity to try gowns that may not have been at the store otherwise. According to Kara Leonard of White Dresses, there can also be other terrific advantages of attending a local boutique’s trunk show. “We always suggest that brides visit trunk shows if they have the opportunity,” said Kara Leonard. “Trunk shows always offer additional options that are not normally available in the store and oftentimes provide brides with purchase perks, such as a discount.”

This weekend, Feb. 15-16, White Dresses will be hosting a Rosa Clará Trunk Show. White Dresses is a bridal boutique in Hunstville, Ala. that recently opened its doors and proudly carries Rosa Clará as one of its lines. “When we embarked on opening our bridal salon, Rosa Clará was one line we knew we wanted to offer brides,” said Kara Leonard. “Rosa Clará offers brides sophisticated and timeless silhouettes that are the epitome of feminine.”

Not only will White Dresses have Rosa Clara in its store this weekend, but it will also have Two by Rosa Clara, which is a more affordable option with similar styles that make brides look gorgeous.  Teresa Leonard, also of White Dresses, said that the wide variety of gowns is sure to provide something for every bride in search of their perfect bridal gown. “This trunk show will be a unique opportunity for Alabama brides,” said Teresa Leonard. “While White Dresses always offers the line in stores, we will have about 40 additional gowns in store during the trunk show for brides to try on. No other salon in the state offers these two lines and so this will provide a ton of different bridal gown options for girls across the state.”

If you need more information or would like to make an appointment with White Dresses, call 256.962.8020 or visit their website. Other upcoming trunks shows for White Dresses – March 8-9: Blush by JLM Couture | March 22-23: Intuzuri | March 29-30: Enchanted Atelier | May 17-18: Plazzo by Jane White

*All images provided by White Dresses. 

 

Inspiration Board: February

It’s our first Inspiration Board of 2013 for our new issue! Once again, we’ve taken lead from our spring cover featuring the lovely Miss Katherine Webb. It doesn’t hurt we’re working with some lovely Valentine’s Day hues from DesignSeed.com‘s decadent tones color swatch. A pop of red never fails to evoke romance and passion. Pair it with neutrals to let it shine. We’ll have all the images ready to be pinned as always. We hope all you lovebirds are having a blast planning your nuptials, especially during this “month of love.” XOXO!

1. Spring 2013 Cover | Bridal Model: Katherine Webb + Bridal Gown & Accessories: The White Room + Hair & Makeup: Melissa Moore Bogardus & Team at Joyce’s Salon + Photography: Arden Photography
2. Stationery: Amberly Shelton Print Design & Couture Paperie + Photography: Arden Photography
3. Bride: Mrs. Allison Crosson + Bridal Gown: Ivory & White Bridal Boutique + Photography: Marsha Perry Photography
4. Bridal Bouquet: Lillie’s + Photography: Arden Photography
5. Transportation: Trolley Times + Photographer: Daniel Taylor Photography + Wedding Planner: M. Elizabeth Events
6. Catering: Vestavia Country Club + Photographer: Daniel Taylor Photography + Wedding Planner: M. Elizabeth Events
7. Cake: Magnificent Cakes at Mountainview Gardens & Ballroom + Photographer: LB Studios
8. Photographer: R I Weddings

 

AWM: How It’s Made

After all the images have been placed, the articles have been proofed and every page has a seal of approval from our publisher and editor-in-chief, Michelle Tubbs, it is time to see the new issue of AWM come to life via our friends at Publishers Press in Louisville, Kentucky. In early December, we packed our bags and hit the road for our annual press check to personally inspect every page of the book to ensure the greatest quality for our readers and our advertisers. It’s a journey that finalizes our efforts throughout the entire year.

The process of printing a magazine is quite fantastic. At the enormous plant with barrels of carefully tested ink and rolls of paper that create cities in a warehouse, we started the day in the wee hours and stayed until every page of the 2013 issue was complete that night. Plates of every page are created to transfer ink on paper that runs in, out and around huge machines that eventually fold spreads into neat bundles. Once each spread is scrutinized and approved, thousands more are printed, stacked and sent to binding. Machines that look nothing sort of a incredible carnival ride will bind sheets together into one solid, complete magazine that is ready to be shipped just in time for the holidays. There may be a ton of work that goes into getting each magazine put together, but that doesn’t mean we don’t want you to tear out pages with the perfect cake, table linen or dress for your planning folders. Of course, if you can’t bear to tear your copy asunder, all images on our website are ready to Pin now!

Of course, we couldn’t pass the chance to celebrate another wonderful issue! When we arrived in town we headed to the Maker’s Mark restaurant since we were in Kentucky after all! As a toast to our first Signature Style Series shoot in the magazine by Kathy G. & Co. at The Donnelly House, I had a mint julep and we finished a fantastic meal with bourbon balls. On the second night, we left the printing press and our Publishers Press representative, Bryan, showed us an exquisite night at Decca complete with a viewing of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. We hope you enjoy this issue as much as we do! We are excited to start planning our 2014 issue and even more excited to be back on our way to Louisville to complete it.

 

Katherine Webb through the years with AWM

Monday evening, the Crimson Tide faced the Fighting Irish in the BCS National Championship and we must admit the results have us saying, “Proud to be from Alabama!” We never would have guessed that the attention of America would have been focused on our sweet cover model, Katherine Webb. The national media may have just discovered Katherine’s beauty (only ONE aspect of this wonderful young woman mind you,) but we have long known that Miss Webb has a grace that shines radiantly on camera. Since 2007, Katherine Webb has worked with Alabama Weddings Magazine on several photo shoots to share emerging trends and timeless inspiration with our Southern brides. You could say she is a staple in our repertoire of models that make our shoots so successful. When she was crowned Miss Alabama, USA 2012, that was a guarantee that she would be back in front of our cameras once again for one of our biggest shoots of our 2013 issue – the Designer Profile. Once we received the images, there was no question that she would appear on the first cover of our 2013 issue. She embodies the grace, poise and charm of a true Southern lady and we couldn’t be happier that all of America can now see that too. Take a look at Katherine Webb as she has grown through the years with Alabama Weddings Magazine!


2008 | Photography: flip flop foto + Floral & Event Design: Kimberly Nelson, Bloomwoods + Gown: Heidi Elnora + Hair: Tom Rehle + Makeup: Heidi Slocumb + Venue: Auburn Marriott Opelika Hotel & Conference Center at Grand National

2010 | Photography: Frank Carnaggio Photography & Jerrod Brown Studios + Floral & Event Design: Jill Sampson Garmon + Lighting Design: A.G. Lighting + Bridal Gown: Bella Couture + Bridesmaid Gowns: Bella Couture + Hair & Makeup: Misty Smith + Venue: Chapel Hill Meeting House, at The Waters


2011 | Photography: Mark Broadway Photography + Floral & Event Design: Kimberly Nelson, Bloomwoods + Gown: Ivory & White Bridal Boutique +  Bridesmaid Gowns: Bella Bridesmaid + Hair & Makeup: Brittany Benton Massey + Venue: The John A Sibley Horticultural Center, Callaway Gardens

 

2013 | Bridal Gowns & Accessories: The White Room + Floral Design: Lillie’s + Hair & Makeup: Melissa Moore Bogardus – Joyce’s Salon + Photography: Arden Photography

 

Inspiration Board: November 2012

 Yes, our blogging hiatus is over for 2012. That means the 2013 issue is on the verge of completion! A few more stamps of approval and a trip to the printer and our twelfth issue of Alabama Weddings Magazine will be shipping! We can’t wait for you to see all the bridal goodness we’ve packed into every page. In the meantime, we’re back with another inspiration board pulled from our 2012 issue. We love design-seed’s honey tones for its warm sweetness that combines colors perfect for Alabama on the tipping point between autumn and winter. As always, you can repin any of the images you see from the AWM Pinterest.

1. Stationery & Wedding Planner: Mariee Ami + Photography: Steven DeVries

2. Cake: Sweet Spot Confections + Venue: B & A Warehouse + Photography: Frank Carnaggio Photography

3. Table Setting: Bromberg’s + Floral Design: KG Designs + Wedding Planner: M. Elizabeth Events + Photography: Jerrod Brown Studios.

4. Linen: BBJ Linen + Event Design: J. Ross, Norton’s Weddings & Events + Photography: Gretchen B Photography

5. Bridal Gown: Ivory & White Bridal Boutique + Groom’s Attire: Mr. Burch Formal Wear + Photography: Marsha Perry Photography

6. Lighting: Design Productions + Venue: The Zone

 

Inspiration Board: October

For October, our inspiration board focuses on our newly released winter cover for the 2012 issue, which corresponded fabulously with design-seeds.com’s succulent garden palette. The key to keeping this color scheme perfect for fall (and not totally spring) is to let some of your greens fall more in the mossy, earthy tones. The pop of lavender looks great not only in floral details, but also for a bridesmaid gown or signature cocktail. If you see anything that just screams at you, let us know by commenting or you can tack on any of these images straight to your Pinterest board. We’ve set up our own board with every image from this post here so pin to your heart’s content!

1. 2012 Winter Cover – Signature Style Series: AG Lighting + Photography: Arden Photography

2. Bridal Gown: Ivory & White Boutique + Bridesmaid Gowns: Bella Bridesmaid + Floral Design: Uncut Flowers + Photography: Arden Photography

3. Floral Design: Hot House Design Studio + Photography: j. messer photography

4. Bridal Gown:  Ivory & White Boutique + Photography: Arden Photography

5. Signature Cocktail: B&A Warehouse  + Barware: Bromberg’s + Floral Design: Lillie’s  + Photography: Arden Photography

6. Table Setting: Bromberg’s + Linen: BBJ + Photography: Marsha Perry Photography

7. Cake: Cakes by Audrey + Photography: Amari Photography

8. Floral Design: KG Designs + Photography: Scottie Jones Photography

 

First Annual Pew Decorating Competition at the Gardens

On Wednesday, September 19, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens hosted the First Annual Pew Decorating Competition. Floral designers, wedding planners and others of Birmingham’s finest wedding vendors put their skills to work, creating pew designs to accent the pews of . . .  you guessed it – P.E.W.S.! Standing for Purely Elegant Wedding Statements, P.E.W.S. is a new, local vendor offering outdoor pew seating for your wedding day. Get the look and feel of having your ceremony in your local church at any location you desire. Using one style of pews, they can seat up to 150 people, but you can also mix-and-match their various styles to seat up to 500 people. Add the designs seen from the competition and you’ve got one gorgeous outdoor wedding for the books. Take a look at what some of the competitors created using designated seasons as inspiration! Check out the PEWS Facebook page and cast your vote for your favorite design at: http://bit.ly/RBFcNq.

1. Bloom + Rowell Meetings & Events – Autumn

2. Kathy G. & Co. + KG Designs – Autumn

3. Norton’s Florist - Autumn

4. Mr. Burch Formal Wear – Autumn

5. Hot House Design Studio – Autumn

6. M. Elizabeth Events + KG Designs - Summer

7. Lillie’s – Spring

8. Mariee Ami Wedding Planning – Spring (First place in season and overall at event.)

9. Lilie’s – Winter

10. Norton’s Florist – Spring

11. Each competitor got a teacup for visitors to grab a business card. We hope some brides found a perfect vendor for their wedding day!

12. No Birmingham Botanical Gardens event is complete without refreshments from Kathy G. & Co!

 

Inspiration Board: September

 For September, we were really gravitated to design-seeds.com’s {corked hues} palette. This month is the transition from summer to autumn so the bright greens mixed with muted browns captured that perfectly. Once again, as we flipped through the 2012 issue we found particular images that collaborated with this color scheme perfectly and should start getting those noodle’s going out there. College football may rule the fall season in the South, but surely there are a few away games that make room for a wedding or two. If you see something you love, be sure to check our corresponding Pinterest board for this blog!

1. Stationery : Alan’s Invitations + Photography : Arden 

2. Floral Design : Norton’s Events + Linen : BBJ + Photography : Gretchen B

3. Event Design : Lillie’s + Lighting: Design Productions + Photography : Jerrod Brown Studios

4. Photography : Rob Ingram

5. Floral Design : KG Designs + Photography : Arden

6. Cake : Sweet Spot Confections + Event Design : Dana’s Floral Design + Venue : B&A Warehouse + Photography: Frank Carnaggio

7. Photography : Frank Carnaggio

 

Stay in honeymoon bliss while abroad

You’ve spent months planning the rehearsal dinner, the bridal tea, the wedding and the reception. When it’s time to get away for the honeymoon, you don’t want to be caught off guard when you travel overseas. This is your time to sit back, relax and cherish the time with your newlywed. Your weather app might say it will be sunny and clear the whole week in Greece, but why leave it to chance? And what if husband eats that special dish while in Mexico that just doesn’t sit well later? It’s important to make sure you pack what you need and while staying within your 50 pound check-in limit when it comes time to leave. Here’s a simple list of what to make sure you pack besides the usual suspects or you can Pin your list if you’re a little more visual.

1. Passport + airline ticket – If you have never applied for a passport, make sure you do at least two months in advance since it takes four to six weeks for it to be processed (costs jump steeply if you need expedited processing.) If you do have a passport already, make sure to check the expiration date. Nothing would be more devastating than getting to security check and then being turned away from paradise!

2. Rain jacket + umbrella - Even if the 10-day forecast shows nothing but sunshine, having these two travel essentials makes certain a little rain won’t ruin your plans! Add a trench coat to your packing list to stay chic while it rains.

3. Camera – Don’t solely rely on your phone to capture all your precious moments! Back up is necessary when you don’t want to miss a moment on this once in a lifetime trip.

4. Adaptors – Remember that every country doesn’t use the same outlets that the U.S. does. Save yourself the trouble and buy an adaptor so you can still use all your appliances (hairdryer, laptop, phone chargers, etc.) while traveling.

5. Swim suit – Whether the resort you two are staying at has a pool/hot tub or your husband suggests a quick trip to the beach, packing a yellow polka dot bikini never hurt anyone.

6. Medication & supplements – This includes any over-the-counter medication like Advil, antihistamines and antacids or any medication that you take regularly. Don’t make the mistake of assuming a drug store near you will carry what you need.

7. Guidebook – When you’ve only got a week, you want to make sure you don’t miss out on anything. Skim a guidebook to get ideas of daily to-do’s!

8. Credit card and/or currency- It’s actually better to use your credit card because the rates of exchange will be less than if you actual changed currency, not to mention it’s more convenient.

9. X-Large sealable bags – It makes packing more efficient. If your bag is searched at customs, it makes repacking easy as pie and it’s the easiest way to stow a week’s worth of laundry!

10.  Comfortable pair of shoes- This may be last on our list, but in no way is it least important. Most people think you have to sacrifice comfort for style when there are plenty of chic shoes that don’t cause you to wince after a few hours. Personally, we vote Tory Burch!

Be sure to check our Honeymoon Packing List on Pinterest!

Article submitted by: Sheyda Mehrara, Auburn University

 

The Gardens Cafe by Kathy G. & Co for B’ham Restaurant Week

Birmingham Restaurant Week is in full swing and a busy production schedule for the 2013 issue of AWM means we need food. We were thrilled to find The Gardens Cafe by Kathy G. and Co. on the list of participating list of Birmingham’s culinary gems. What that means for you is that from August 21 – 24 between 11 -2, you can venture out to the Birmingham Botanical Gardens to have a perfectly light and fresh lunch presented by the Kathy G and Co team for only $10 for an entree and dessert. Here’s your choices:

Pan Roasted Parmesan Crusted Boneless Chicken Breast over Creamy Polenta & Sautéed Baby Green Beans w/ Lemon Caper Picatta Sauce
-or -
Tomato Pie – Vine Ripe Tomatoes, Caramelized Onion, Fresh Basil, Feta & Parmesan Cheese Baked in a Pie Shell served w/ a Mixed Green Salad

For dessert, everyone gets the lemon sorbet with fresh berries and mint. All that is for only $10, but remember that doesn’t cover your choice of drink, tax and tip (and the service is wonderful of course.) I had the chicken breast and I was absolutely delighted. Make sure you save room to savor the sorbet as well. It is so perfectly tangy, yet sweet and perfect with this wonderful weather we’re enjoying. If you’re somehow feeling a little full afterwards, you’re in the perfect spot to take a little jaunt through the gardens. Take a moment to really enjoy that wonderful amenity of Birmingham.

This is a great opportunity for a mother and daughter to have a lunch date and consider the possibility of hosting a bridal shower/luncheon or possibly even your wedding if the space accomodates  your needs. You get to sample the food, service and atmosphere and will have enjoyed the perfect little lunch if you decide it’s not exactly the right fit. Let us know on Facebook, Twitter or the comments below if you make it there for Birmingham Restaurant Week!

 

Inspiration Board: August

If you’ve been pinning with us, you may have noticed our Color Ways board. It is dedicated solely to the endless color palettes that can inspire your wedding. We particularly love design-seeds.com’s combinations, created by Jessica. This particular palette, “Dried Hues” was a perfect match for our Fall 2012 cover. Starting there, we collected images from various shoots throughout the 2012 issue to illustrate how these palettes can inspire an entire wedding.

1. Bridal Gown: The White Room + Hair/Makeup: Misty Smith + Photography: j. messer photography

2. Stationery: Alan’s Invitations + Photography: Arden Photography

3. Boutonniere: Norton’s Weddings & Events + Photography: Amari Photography

4. Floral Design: KG Designs + Lighting Design: Design Productions + Photography: Marsha Perry Photogrpahy

5. Catering: B&A Warehouse + Floral Design: Dana’s Floral Design + Photography: Frank Carnaggio Photography

6. Catering: Kathy G. & Co. +  Photography: Marsha Perry Photography

7. Cake: Sweet Spot Confectons + Photography: Arden Photography

 

Instant Gratification – Same Day Edit

Christina & Phillip Same Day Edit from Main Street Productions on Vimeo.

We hope you all have recognized the value of an amazing videographer for your wedding day. If a photo says a thousand words, what all does a film of your nuptials say? Well, Main Steet Productions has started offering a new service – Same Day Edit. Basically, what that means for you is that not only will you have a full video to view after your wedding, but they will also have a shorter highlight reel ready to show your guests at the reception. This is a really exciting option that can enhance your guests’ experience and let you see the immediate benefits of investing in a videographer, such as the ones you can find our Resource Guide. Is this a special moment you want to include for your wedding day? Let us know. Better yet, give the fine folks at Main Street Productions a call and see how they can offer their services to you.

Other AWM advertisers you may recognize in the video include: AK Brides + KG Designs + Design Productions + Frank Carnaggio Photography

 

Top 5 Pinnable Ideas

We know you’ve all busy planning your weddings according to your Pinterest boards. It’s just the new way of doing things and we agree that it’s an amazing tool. The only problem is that there is such a thing as too many pins. There, we said it. At some point you start to lose your favorite ideas in the jumble of all the pins that you “just kinda liked” and “thought were sorta neat.” So we’ve made ourselves a short list. We took just our top five ideas from the board “Ideas We Love!” When it is time to start making some definite choices with your vendors, we recommend taking a moment to narrow down your likes into just your absolute favorites as well so that you don’t get lost in every single idea that could possibly find its way into the overall vision for your wedding day. The ideas we’ve shared would be great to mention to your wedding planner so that they can coordinate these special details with your vendors. If you haven’t located the perfect planner, we have some of the best of the best in our Resource Guide.

1. From the Tips of Your Toes: This one melted our hearts right away. The groom shares a special note with the bride on the bottom of her shoes she will be wearing down the aisle. Pin It

2. Polaroid Guest Book: Does anyone ever go back to read every entry in a guest book? This is a chance for your guests to have a little fun and once you have these put in a scrap book, you’ll have even more fun remembering all the people who shared that day with you. Pin It

3. Your Spidey-Sense is Tingling: A wedding is about a union of two people, so you may not want to have a separate bridal cake and groom’s cake. Instead, surprise the groom with a special nod to him in the one, grand cake. From the front, it will be picture perfect, but the back will hide a special detail. Pin It

4. All That Sparkles: This is a rising trend that we know you’ve got to love. But how do they do it? The couple just stands still while two friends do the sparkler work during a long-exposure photo.Your photographer may have experience with this type of shot and know exactly how to capture it. Pin It

5. Something Remembered : There are times when not everyone special in your life can be with you when you need them most. Remember them with a photo pinned to your bouquet so they can help walk you down the aisle. Pin It

 

Something for the Kids

Both the little girl tossing handfuls of flowers and a young ring bearer are sweet reminders that we were all that innocent once. That’s why it’s important not to forget to gift these procession leaders! Sure, it’s simple to get your bridal party or groomsmen gifts because you usually know them so well! But what about children? We may not want to admit it, but sometimes we’re not as in tune with our inner child as much as we might think. That’s why we’ve found some of our favorites to share.

1. Oh, is it time for tea already? Don’t you remember setting up Mr. Bear and Mrs. Rabbit for some mid-afternoon tea and crumpets? Well, now your flower girl can make memories of her own with her very own tea set from Pottery Barn Kids. (Starting at $19)

2. If your flower girl is a bit older to appreciate jewelry, then perhaps a necklace with a charm is the perfect gift of gratitude. For something a little more unusual, Bromberg’s offers these monogrammed, pewter cuff bracelets. You can have the personalized monograms finished in four different styles. ($25)

3. While the actual photographer is snapping away, why not give the little man some of the action? The Fisher-Price Kid Tough Digital Camera is “a real digital camera that’s tough enough to stand up to the ways kids play and the places they go.” This camera won’t take photos quite up to par with our photographers, but everyone has to get their start somewhere, right? (Approximately $40)

 4. These aren’t your old wooden block cars. Automoblox are totally revamped looks from the Pinewood Derby cars you may recall and are ready for action. What’ll keep your ring bearer’s attention is that he can take it apart and build a care that is totally his own. (Starting at $30.)

Article by: Intern Sheyda Mehrara from Auburn University

 

Bouts To Boot

A bridal bouquet is a chance for the ladies to pick and choose from a plethora of textures and colors of flowers to compliment her personality and beauty as she steps down the aisle. A groom’s boutonniere, however, is usually just an afterthought of the bouquet that gets pinned on a lapel because it’s expected. Fritts Rosenow Bespoke Boutonnieres creates custom bouts that can interject a bit of the groom’s personality into the festivities. They can reflect favorites pastimes, personal style or even little quirks that make him the guy with whom you fell in love. This is a great opportunity to surprise your man on the wedding day and remind him that the day is about him as well. You can also take these examples as inspiration to talk to your floral designer about the possibilities for a custom groom’s bout. Check out the floral designers in our Resource Guide if you haven’t nailed down someone with the right flower power for you.

Photo credit: rosenowfloral.com/frittsrosenow

 

Congratulations Gia’s Cakes!

We are so excited to share the news that Gia’s Cakes has officially opened the doors to it’s very own bakery boutique in Birmingham. Our web editor, David, was at her opening celebration on Sunday, May 10, to share in the excitement and a few fabulous truffles. We are so pleased that part of our family has taken the next big step to making a name in the Alabama wedding industry.

You absolutely must take a moment of your day to indulge in one of Gia’s decadent treats  as soon as possible. You can find Gia’s Cakes Bakery Boutique at 73 Church Street, Birmingham, Ala. 35213 or like them on Facebook. Again, congratulations Gia and your new team. We can’t wait to come again!

 

Top 5 Favorable Favors

It’s all too common  - Brides spend too much time and money on the perfect favors, but when  the couple drives into the sunset, their parents are left to gather all the favors left by guests in the excitement of the moment. To ensure your friends and family won’t cross the threshold without favor in hand, we’ve compiled a list of some of our most favorable favors for your big day.

1. Personalized Mini Jelly Jars: It’s a simple and truly Southern gift perfect for the entire family with emphasis on the personalization. Let the flavor and presentation truly represent you. Photo credit: J. Messer Photography

2. Personal Champagne Bottles: Why let the party stop when you make you big exit? Let your guests be able to have their own special moment once you’ve had yours with a pop of the cork. Of course, encourage enjoyable, but responsible drinking first and foremost. Photo credit: Dorie Lynn Photography

3. Hangover Kits: This is a “must-have” for those indulging in an open bar at their event. Don’t let your guests’ last memory of your wonderful night be a major headache in the morning. Photo credit: Brian Phillips

4. Planted Succulents: Another truly Southern-inspired gift, this favor is perfect for your guests to take home and plant something to remember your union. Don’t worry though, succulents are extremely resilient so even the least green-thumbed of your guests should’t be able to let it die too quickly. Photo Credit: Madalina Lesan

5. Late-Night Snack: Okay, so this is definitely an example of saving the best for last. Your guests may not be so quick to grab a trinket before hitting the road, but there is no way they will pass on a taco or sandwich for the road if you have a convenient food truck parked outside or any sampling of your favorite after-hours faire. Photo Credit: Armosa Studios

This list could really go on and on, but these are some ideas we truly love. Let us know what favors you’re planning for your guests!

 

Pin With Us!

Raise your hands if you’re obsessed with Pinterest! We’ve got all hands in the air and we’re sure you do too. How many times have you seen the perfect cake or dress, only to later forget exactly where you saw it? Now your boards on Pinterest keep everything tucked in place to make sure all the details you want for you big day don’t get forgotten in the whirlwind of the planning process. At Alabama Weddings Magazine, we want to be part of your Pinterest perusing by creating boards featuring the talents of our fabulous advertisers that you see in the magazine as well as other pins we think represent true Alabama style. Won’t you come pin with us? AlWeddingsMag Pinterest

On new website also offers a feature on all images from our inspiration galleries, Real Weddings and Signature Style Series for you to instantly share things you love, including the ability to Pin our images directly from the website. Don’t hesitate to jump over there right now and start getting a little Pin-crazy. We won’t tell if you don’t. And share a link to your boards so we can see what inspires you!

 

Who’s getting married? Let us know!

Last time we asked you why Charlotte of Sex and the City got so upset by her photo in the Sunday Times in Season 6. You may recall it was because an ink spot created what appeared to be a mustache on her face on the announcement of her wedding that seemed to make all the wrong turns. While we are sure your wedding will only be tears of joy and not disappointment, information about your wedding announcement is part of what we want to share with you today.

As another new feature for our Brides-To-Be, you can now make your wedding announcement to all of Alabama with us! For just $75, you can include one photo and up to 100 words on our Announcements page for 90 days to make sure everyone hears the good news. Once youʼve tied the knot, you can showcase your nuptials by purchasing a spot in our Online Real Weddings for $175, which includes up to 15 photographs in a personal gallery and your proposal story. For more information about your wedding announcement or Online Real Weddings, contact me at david@alabamaweddingsmagazine.com.

Alabama Weddings Magazine - Announcement

My teachers, and probably yours as well, always said that if I brought a snack, I had to bring enough for the whole class. As part of the added features to our site, we have a little something for advertisers as well. If youʼre looking to reach future brides in the market, we have new opportunities for advertising on our website. Whether or not you advertise in our printed publication, you can purchase sidebar ad space on a quarterly basis and choose from three different sizes for what is appropriate for you. If youʼre looking for more prominent real estate, we also have our “Featured Vendor” spotlight directly under the banner on the home page, which includes one photo and a brief summary. I wonʼt get into the nitty-gritty here, but you can download our media kit here for the facts and figures.

Weʼre also offering the opportunity for open submissions of real weddings to be featured on this blog. You donʼt even necessarily have to be an advertiser to submit. Click here to find out more about this process. We canʼt guarantee that all submissions will be chosen, but we do want to see exceptional weddings that reflect true AWM style and be able to share them.

Part of our mission for this magazine is to keep brides connected with advertisers that have the know-how to pull off any theme or idea and these options create opportunities for that connection.

 

Welcome to our new site!

Something borrowed, something blue. Something old, something new.

Launching the new design of the AWM website is something that has been an exciting challenge for us that weʼre pleased to be able to now share with you. Perusing the different pages, you will notice that we tried to revisit every aspect of the site make all content more accessible and beautiful.

BEFORE

Alabama Weddings Magazine - Old AWM Website

For those of you seeking something to get your noodle going, you can now search through our Real Weddings based on categories such as colors and styles to find what instantly speaks to your needs. Our inspiration galleries have been revamped with even more photos from our current issue as well as from our past ones. Best of all, our Resource Guide now has more information about our advertisers that make it all happen as well an image gallery for an extra taste of the services they provide. With these changes, weʼve made it even easier for you to get in contact with the right person to make your wedding dreams happen.

AFTER

Alabama Weddings Magazine - New AWM Website

Keep an eye out this week as we continue to unfold all the new features of this site. To give you a hint as to our next post, can you remember why Charlotte of Sex and the City got so upset by her photo in the Sunday Times in Season 6?

Thank you to Lance Ingram of Ingram Image for all the hours and talent you dedicated to our new site design. We love it!

 

Set sail with our Summer 2012 cover

As we continue on a note of change, we are excited about the new Summer 2012 cover that has been hitting shelves. It may just be May, but a new cover signifies a change in the air. Plans are being made for burying toes in the sand and soaking up some sun and that is exactly what this cover reflects. A group of our talented advertisers hit the road to put together the details for this portion of our Signature Style Series on the Gulf coast at Beachside Romar in Orange Beach, Alabama. You can find even more about this year’s “fun-in-the-sun” in our SSS Gallery. Feel free to share with your friends and followers, “pin” your favorite image or even grab your favorite frozen beverage to really get in the spirit!

Alabama Weddings Magazine - AWM Summer 2012 Issue
Alabama Weddings Magazine - AWM Summer 2012 Issue
Alabama Weddings Magazine - AWM Summer 2012 Issue
Alabama Weddings Magazine - AWM Summer 2012 Issue
Alabama Weddings Magazine - AWM Summer 2012 Issue
Alabama Weddings Magazine - AWM Summer 2012 Issue
Alabama Weddings Magazine - AWM Summer 2012 Issue
Alabama Weddings Magazine - AWM Summer 2012 Issue
Alabama Weddings Magazine - AWM Summer 2012 Issue

Bridal Gown: The White Room

Bride Model: Mariam Campbell

Cake: Pastry Art Bake Shoppe

Floral & Event Design: Christopher Confero Design

Groom’s Attire: Saks Fifth Avenue

Groom Model: Josh Grant

Guest Condo: Enclave – Kaiser Realty

Hair & Makeup: Carla Baumann Rheuby

Lighting Design: A.G. Lighting & Production

Linen: BBJ Linen

Photography: Rob Ingram Photography