The Coordinator is in! (Q&A) Box

Do you have a question about Wedding Planning? Need some advice on your nuptials? You're in luck. The Coordinator is IN!

This fall season I am opening up a Q&A block in my bi-weekly, FREE E-Zine, SimplyBlissFUL. I will be taking your questions and tricky situations and answering one every issue in a featured article. To submit your question or concern, email them directly to my inbox-

SimplyBliss_Weddings@Yahoo.com,

(or you can use the contact table on my website)

http://www.simplyblisseventsfl.com/.

To make sure you're subscribed to my E-Zine, head to the website and input your Name and Email address in the form provided on the Home page, right away! Don't forget to add 'simplybliss_weddings@yahoo.com' to your contact list once you're signed up to ensure you receive SimplyBlissFUL in your inbox twice a month.

I'm very excited to open up my Q&A box this fall and look forward to sharing some expertise with you. Happy Planning and Success!

--Cherise

Vendor Spotlight: Aaron Van Photography

After receiving a call from Aaron requesting the details on our Bride's nail and hair appointments, her rehearsal info and where she would be dressing for her big moment- I knew he was genuinely interested in the couple's happiness. The man drove out to the nail salon to snap a few photos the day before the Wedding, attended their rehearsal, met them at the hair salon the next afternoon and followed the Bride all the way to the altar. On top of all this, the couple also attended a series of engagement photo shoots and the Bride dressed up for a portrait session in her dress. All of these moments were captured with such creativity and life- the results are nothing short of fabulous. I decided the world of Brides needed to know more about Aaron Van and his work, so please enjoy my Spotlight session with Aaron and a few samples of his latest work- you won't be disappointed!

What do you love most about photography?
Overall I like capturing the moment, finding that right spot, angle, lighting and composition and then catching the memory as it flies by. We live in a world of moments and yet we are moving so fast that we rarely get to stop and enjoy what we were doing. As the pace of life grows ever faster I feel that the role of a photographer becomes even more important, but you can't just take a picture, you have to anticipate, react and tell a story with your photography. It's that challenge and the feeling you get after seeing what you've shot that make me love this work.

What do you bring to the table that separates your business from other photographers'?
I have a background in graphic design, I've worked as a designer and an art director for many agencies over 10+ years as well as working for myself. There are three things I think that provides as an invaluable commodity to my work and separates me from other photographers. In design you have to be able to tell a story with imagery, to get a message across quickly, so I know what others like to see, what they are interested in visually, there's a science to it. The second is an understanding of composition, where to put objects in a scene so as to attract the most attention and for the entire image to be pleasing to the eye. It's not just about tilting the camera or putting someone in the right side of the frame, it has to do with every element in the scene and what works or does not work changes and varies for every shot.Lastly is an in depth understanding of Photoshop, when I capture an image and it's not quite what I want I can create it. There is a difference between an image that looks like it was Photoshopped and one that was but looks natural. I can manipulate just about anything and still keep the photo looking as though it was straight out of the camera. It's like watching a big special effects movies, the best ones are the ones that don't look like they used any special effects, like they were just shot that way and somehow they got that on camera.My job is not just to press a shutter button, it's to tell a story. If a photo speaks a thousand words then I strive for my images to be novels.

What is your favorite part of a wedding and why?
Ohhh, tough one, there are so many great things about a wedding. I think my favorite thing would have to be capturing all those hidden moments that most people don't see or notice. Shots of the Bride and Groom during their first dance are special and important but it's getting the photo of the parents emotionally watching that dance that make it worth it for me. I love that the couple get to experience another side of the event as well as relive their moments when looking through their book or watching their DVD.

Describe your photography style and why it should appeal to Brides.
My photography style is different from most for many reasons. I don't focus on a single industry, there are lots of wedding photographers out there and some very good ones but when I look at portfolios I tend to see the same thing because they focus so much on the craft of photography and not the art of capturing a moment. When I approach a shoot I figure out how to use the camera to get the image I have in my head, I like to study my subjects and match my photography to their style. In my design business I am always told that I consistently get it right for a client and it is because I listen to who they are and the story they are trying to tell and then I use the tools at my disposal to create an image for them. That is the approach I bring to photography as well. So while my quality is always consistent my look is usually quite unique, while most photographers tell their own story using the clients event, I strive to tell the clients story using the camera as a tool. I am excited about what I do, I anticipate and react I don't just walk around and wait for something to happen, I love to study my surroundings and to capture the shots that take you back every time you look at them.

I find Aaron to be such an incredible and creative asset to your wedding plans because he isn't your average Wedding Photographer at all. His experience in different photography fields keeps him fresh and excited for each event. Getting to know couples personally and learning their story, what they are all about- is half the fun for Aaron. Every wedding he books includes a studio session as well as the rehearsal dinner to draw him closer to his clients and his surroundings which ultimately gives him the edge where final product is concerned.

"At the end of it all I understand that my couples put their trust in me to deliver a lifetime of memories and I take that as seriously as I did when I handed it over to my own wedding photographer."-- Aaron Van

Vendor Spotlight Preview

Vendor Spotlight:

Aaron Van Photography

I just recently had the pleasure of working with Aaron for a couple who tied the knot in early August and am pleased to highlight his photography in my next Vendor Spotlight, which is soon to post!

If you want to get a headstart and see some of his amazing photos, check out his portfolio on his photography website below.

http://www.aaronvanphotography.com

Dollar Dance Fun

So how many of you have been considering "The Dollar Dance" for your Reception? Although the main drawing factor is the extra cash flow you will earn together as you begin your life as Husband and Wife, you can also snag the opportunity to add some spunk and excitement for your guests. I will advise however, that the Dollar Dance can easily sink into a cheesy, stereotypical, school-dance type addition to your evening, so proceed with caution! The Dollar Dance is not necessarily suitable for every style of reception- here are some basic guidelines for making the choice and spicing it just right!

DO

Have the DJ play upbeat tunes full of energy- more guests are inclined to get involved with a playful mood.

Thank your guests for their cash contribution with a little conversation, some entertaining moves and big smiles-- that camera is always watching!

• Put your own spin on it! Get creative with your efforts to collect the bills. Although practical, the traditional purse doesn't keep a lot of flavor. Bring along a personalized "piggy bank", hand-crafted box or other container, or improvise with what you've got available! Guests went wild to pay the Newlyweds cold hard cash in return for some dance time at this reception (shown to the right)! All the money was stuffed in the Bride's dress or the Groom's pockets and suspenders. After the dance- we fished out all the bills and made a nice money wad to send the couple on their honeymoon with.

DON'T

• Don't spend all night on it! 2 full songs or a remix of tunes works best.
• Don't be caught off guard. Enlist a helper for the dance if needed to make sure your hard earned cash isn't lost and the dance isn't interrupted while you struggle to situate the money.

They key to Dollar Dance Success is knowing your crowd and what will entice them! Make it your own and you've got a recipe for picture perfect memories, and some extra splurging on your honeymoon. What's not to Love?

Play This!

For all of you Brides out there desperately searching for Wedding Music- take a listen to my new favorite pick-- "I'm Yours" by Jason Mraz. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iEieyhbzb30

This is such a beautiful piece! What I love most about this song- it fits into that whole blissful wedding I'm always talking about. And it's extremely versatile. It goes well with a lot of wedding schemes-- particularly a beachy or earthy laid back scene.



Use it as your First Dance for an easy, lighthearted routine. Dedicate it to all those lovely couples in attendance at your reception- who can resist some close canoodling to this tune? Play it in the background of your "(Bride) and (Groom) looking back" video and watch the tears start leaking out of your sentimental guests. Or if you are feeling unique and creative, exchange the traditional Wedding March for a clip of these lovingly devotional lyrics for your trip down the aisle.

Anyway you look at it, this one's a winner and sure to be a hot item on playlists everywhere! Check out the official page of Jason Mraz on the web at: http://www.jasonmraz.com/

Honeymoon Showcase: Cozumel, Mexico!

I found it appropriate to showcase my own Honeymoon in the 1st edition of my E-zine because I love spreading the word on my personal experience in Cozumel, Mexico. This post is taken from that first e-zine. Do you have a honeymoon you would like to see showcased here or even in an upcoming E-Zine? Write to me @ simplybliss_weddings@yahoo.com for more details.

Being a budget Bride in May 2007, I spent countless hours narrowing the competition and couldn’t be happier with the amazing week spent with my husband at the Cozumel Palace.
If you’re looking for that “Honeymooner” feeling (you know what I’m talking about!)—where resort staff oogle over your newlywed status with consistent courtesy—where other tourists have jealousy sweating from them in your presence—you wake up every morning thinking you’ve found paradise, fell in love again and again with your new mate and completely enriched your outlook on life as you know it… Cozumel is calling!
The Cozumel Palace is unmatchable in All – Inclusive, affordable luxury. You won’t meet friendlier people, eat better food or get better bang for your buck at a better place. Cozumel itself is full of Mexican culture, beauty and romance. Located across the Riviera Maya from the mainland of Mexico, your island of paradise can expand for more adventure and completely amazing views of a beautiful culture by a simple ferry ride!
I’ve chosen to highlight this honeymoon because of the complete experience. Staying in Cozumel at the Palace provides you with an unprecedented service and quality, a unique and sexy suite, amazing tours and well—Mexico at your fingertips! There really is something for everyone. Did I mention how affordable this location can be? I will undoubtedly be returning for many anniversaries to come—hope to see you there with that Honeymoon Happiness radiating!

Interested in going to Cozumel Palace? Check with me on the current rates and also the advantages of booking your honeymoon through Simply Bliss!

www.simplyblisseventsfl.com

For the Love of Candy!

Back to my very purple Friday evening event!

When I first found out the Bride decided on cultivating a candy bar for her guests to bag up their own favors, I was doing budget review with her. This Candy Bar fit perfectly into her allocated funds, sounded delicious and was relatively simple. What's not to love from the start?!

The night before the wedding she dropped off all the goods to me. Mountains of chocolates wrapped in her wedding colors, purple salt water taffy, old fashioned candy sticks... jelly bellys... all perfectly placed in their own mismatched glass containers, wrapped in ribbon with printed name tags. This DIY project turned out fantastically and if it didn't tempt guests out of their seats with a sweet promise, nothing would!

Here are the reasons I LOVE a Candy Bar and why it will work for you:

a.) It's easy to construct, easy to shop for, and easy to please (everyone).

b.) Guests always enjoy edible favors-- especially when a variety is laid out in front of them and the candy store isn't even asking for their nickels and dimes... just fill 'er up!

c.) It's visually pleasing to everyone and goes with any and every scheme. There is a candy (or 2 or 3 or 12 maybe!) and flavor to match your style!

d.) Having tons left over isn't really a bad thing! As compared to leftover trinkets anyways. Your Mother-in-Law will only have sooo much room for keepsake votives, bubbles, fans, programs (whatever wedding detail she sneaks in her purse on her way out of the reception) etc. Candy however, is far easier to make disappear!

e.) It can be as affordable or as extravagant as you want. M&Ms and Hershey Kisses are among the least expensive treats, but imported chocolates from Germany are not out of the question if you're looking for a little uniqueness!

f.) Most importantly-- it's personal! Throw in your childhood favorites, your Groom's candy of choice, the variety your parent's treated you to for the most special occasions. Invoke nostalgia and pure happiness in your guests and yourselves and you've got a winning combination that can't be over or out-done!

I love this set up-- simplicity and elegance that perfectly matches the couple's style. This was extremely affordable and only took a little bit of elbow grease to pull together!

A Purple Preview!

Mike and Shayna have known each other for 8 years, and chose to be married on 08.08.08. And it rained (poured is more like it!). Truly, the luckiest day of their lives- and myself along with their 100 guests were there to bask in it through an elegant and beautiful Friday evening. I thought I'd take a break from my post-wedding duties to provide a quick preview of their phenomenally purple event! Enjoy :)

On the run!

I've been rushing around today preparing for a Rehearsal/Dinner this evening and then of course a special Wedding on Friday so I've been slightly neglectful of my blogging duties! I am however, very excited to put together a few different entries dealing with this particular wedding that I LOVE and can't wait to share with you! So check back with me this weekend for some fresh ideas and photos!

And I'm out the door! Hasta Luego...

T.P. Bride 101

Alright so I'm starting this at 11:00pm rushing to post it before midnight so that I don't make a liar out of myself for mentioning yesterday that I would have this fun story posted today! So here goes, Speedy style!

My latest venture to a Bridal Shower this past month provided me with some fun content for you Brides, Maids or Whoevers looking for some ideas to use at your own showers. This was my favorite of the day and hopefully the photos will do the game some justice.

The game begins with the Bride's Matron of Honor marching into the common area with bundles upon bundles of toilet paper rolls, asking us to break up into teams. I'm paired up with my own Mother-In-Law and a nice woman I've never met before. Matron then explains that the T.P. is to be used to dress up a chosen teammate as a Bride, as creatively as possible of course. The real Bride and Matron will pick the winner at the end of 5 minutes! I've always wanted to be decked out head to toe in toilet paper myself, so I eagerly opted to be the Bride! (Any chance to relive the glory days doesn't hurt either right?)

The clock is ticking and the room is instantly filled with a fog of T.P. particles tickling my nose and irritating my eyes-- guests frantcially attaching strands of bathroom tissue wherever they possibly can onto their Bride to make her the most beautiful queen toilet paper has ever seen!

(So here I am, that's me in the black top-- making my own tiara by wrapping my sunglasses with the glorious T.P., being dressed to impress. I'm actually excited, I have never won a game at a Bridal Shower and I think I've got a good chance today!)

(And here is my competition!)

When the 5 minutes is up, I am wearing a halter like sophisticated style with somewhat of a Hawiian skirt to it, a nice veil and cathedral length train... my fantastic tiara is more like a whole headpiece, but my bouquet is just divine, as are the greek goddess type sandals I'm wrapped in. This one's in the bag!

Or not. :\ See that middle photo up there with the Nun Bride? The real Bride's Mother-In-Law sporting the latest in Nun fashion came out ahead of us all... although I was saddened to be so close to a first win, I've got to hold my head high! She was good competition and I've got a story so I guess I didn't do too shabby after all. And what a lovely photo we make!

This activity was awesome because EVERYONE got involved and had a blast. And for those Earth loving tree huggers like myself- No T.P. was completely wasted in the making of these dresses! The Bride's MIL saved every bit for future packing/stuffing purposes. Now how can you resist?

Adios and Good Night Amigos! Midnight = Sleep Now or forever hold your peace around here! Next Entry: TBD!

Opening Act

{Enter Stage Left} Cherise Phillips, Wedding and Event Coordinator! (applause is appreciated ;)
Today she is adorned in a cotton lacey (thing) with hearts playfully dancing around on it-- hair is pulled back in a messy bun with side bangs pinned up just out of her face. This getup lets her live the fantasy that she will be competing on the upcoming finale of So You Think You Can Dance-- while she is really plunked down against the closet door in her office (hiding from view) waiting for her infant to actually sleep and her toddler to tire of jumping on the bed like a monkey and do that sleep thing too. (Enjoy the little fantasies throughout the day and don't ask questions!)

Moving On. So here I am! I have arrived to Blog Heaven with so much to talk about I can't decide where to start- so let's keep it Simple shall we? An introduction won't hurt anyone and it is a most reasonable place to start (plus it will buy me some time to rally my thoughts amidst the monkey jumping on the bed).
Rewind- August 2006
Cherise cuddles lovingly with her firstborn, a sweet little boy (monkey) who has brought new meaning and perspective to her life. She multitasks-- flipping through page after page of the newest bridal magazine, taking notes, possibly nursing, possibly eating her own dinner, ignoring a tv show her husband is engrossed in... and it hits! Suddenly destiny arrives and unpacks in her overcrowded brain, turns on all the lights and gives her a swift kick in the a$$.
Cherise: (to husband aka Trust E. Steed) If I wanted to start my own business and be a Wedding professional would you have faith in me?
Trust E.: Absolutely! (common, but genuine response received for most questions-- in this case it is bonified!)
Cherise: Blah Blah Blah, yackity yackity, wedding, wedding, coordinator, colors, colors, partner, online studying, love, love, love, new career, I can dress up in the suits like I always wanted to!, OCD on the organization... yes? yes! I'll start tomorrow!

8 or so months later Cherise has completed the online program, joined a highly respected wedding association-- ABC-- planned and executed (with help, thank goodness!) her own wedding and honeymoon, played the Bridesmaid, began work with her first client and lost all that pregnancy fat (Yes I am proud therefore I slip that in :).
Left a good job in the city... sort of. Cherise left the corporate world to further pursue this dream career, had ANOTHER sweet little baby boy, bought a house in a new part of the state and continued to work with new and exciting clients under her newly owned and operated business, Simply Bliss. www.simplyblisseventsfl.com simplybliss_weddings@yahoo.com

Fast forward to that hiding in the office part...
(Add "eating assorted hershey kisses" to the descrip here... have you had the Bliss (appropriately named I know) ones? WOW these are fantastic...)
So that is my story, it's not long yet but every story starts somewhere and now you know! I named my company Simply Bliss because those two words embody my idea of a Bride, her wedding, and her life thereafter. This particular blog, Wedding- n.; (More Than A Dress), will be highlighting fresh ideas, thoughts, stories etc in relation to the soon to be Mrs. to help guide her through the engagement and deliver her safely to her "Happily Ever After" with-- you guessed it, More Than A Dress!

I'll start tomorrow off with a fun story (and photos!) on one of my favorite Bridal Shower games. Until Then,
Happiness and Success!

Bonus Image!

Now you REALLY know me: Family photo-Myself, Trust E., Sweet Baby Boy and The Monkey.