Tip - Cocktail Appetizers

Fresh fruit, dried fruit and an assortment of cheeses can make an excellent self serve cocktail hour snack for your guests. Sometimes this can be less costly and with the rich cheeses, guests are less likely to fill up before dinner.Photo provided by The Memory Journalists

Trend - Ceremony Petals

If you're considering rose petals to line the aisle of your ceremony, give consideration to faux petals. They won't stain your dress or a floor runner, will be less expensive and reusable. You could also use fake petals for guests to throw as you make your way back down the aisle as husband and wife.

Photo provided by Sharpe Photographers

Trend - Candid Keepsakes

Choose a photographer that showcases images where they have captured candid images of guests in their silly moments, not just posed photos. This will make for a more well rounded keepsake and a true representation of your friends and family, not just staged.Photo provided by The Memory Journalists

Tip - Bridesmaid Bags

A cute coordinating purse makes for a great, handy gift for your bridesmaids. They can stow away their wedding day necessities in style. You could fill it with a few potential wedding day bridesmaid needs, like bandaids, chapstick, travel sunblock, etc.

Photo provided by Sharpe Photographers

Trend - Wedding Guest Photos

Capture a photo of all your wedding guests, if you can. Guests will love to find themselves in the picture and you will have a keepsake of everyone who attended since not every person will be photographed during the event.Photo provided by Profinish Design

Tip - Ask Your Bridesmaids For Help

Ask your bridesmaids get ready first and take on the responsibility of helping you get ready and help with your dress, veil, etc.Photo provided by Profinish Design

Tip - Take A Spa Day

Treat yourself and your bridesmaids to a divine day at the spa before your big day. If it's too expensive for everyone to get pampered with massages, manis and pedis, just opt for one. Your friends and your mind, will appreciate it. Check out J Christiaan Spa + Salon + Product Bar for an outstanding experience.Photo provided by J Christiaan Spa

Trend - Assorted Seating

While not too long ago there weren't many seating options for your wedding day, now there is a plethora of chairs, bench seating, etc. available for your wedding day. Consider the style that you are trying to bring across and talk with your coordinator or rental specialist about how your seating can help bring that across.

Photo provided by Sharpe Photographers

Real Dynamite Wedding - Leah & Rob

September 21, 2008

Leah & Rob: Love At First Sight

The Meeting
Leah and Rob met in late 2005 when they were introduced by friends, and it was quite honestly love at first sight. Love at first sight sounds like a fairy tale and they wanted to be cautious. Each of them couldn’t imagine that finding someone so perfect could be easy and were waiting for the ball to drop. It never did. The two became inseparable and their compatibility was awe inspiring and heartfelt. They became the couple that you see and can only assume they just met because they were so enamored by each other. The truth is that they are truly in love and are always selflessly thinking of each other.

The Engagement
After dating for almost six months, Rob surprised Leah with an anniversary trip to her hometown of Monterey. It was December 2nd, 2006 and Rob booked a gorgeous room at the remarkable Monterey Plaza Hotel. The first night there, they went up to enjoy the roof top spa overlooking the whole bay. They were greeted with a beautiful clear night and a full moon shinning over them. For Rob, “It was as if I flashed forward in my mind and saw her walking down the aisle towards me. It was at that moment that I knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life with this woman and asked her to marry me. With a look of surprise, she accepted and kissed me.”

The Big Day
All Leah and Rob ever wanted was to commit to each other completely and had considered eloping many times just to make it official. Each time they dismissed the idea due to the fact they wanted to share their day with everyone that has supported them. On the day of their wedding, having spent their first night apart since starting to date, they were both anxious to be back in each other’s arms. While they were excited to share the morning with family and friends, all either could think about was seeing the other during their first sighting and sharing the moment together that they had been planning for. Their first sighting was full of emotion and excitement as Rob saw Leah standing before him as an absolute sun kissed vision. She took his breath away. As Leah turned to greet Rob for their first sighting she couldn’t help but think she was marrying the sexiest man alive!

Their ceremony and reception were everything they imagined. They were graced with perfect weather, jubilant friends and family, delicious food, great music, love and support for this union. Everyone was there to celebrate the reality that love at first sight is possible.

Photography: The Memory Journalists
Ceremony/Reception Venue: David Girard Vineyards
Coordinator: friend
Florist: Floral Artistry
Cake: Classic Cakes
Band: Tim Dierkes and friends
Favors: cookies from Cookie Connection
Lounge Station Rentals: Celebrations! Elegant Party Rentals

Tip - Take A Moment

Try to steal a moment with your groom at some point during the festivities to take a look around and soak everything in, because it will be over before you know it.Photo provided by Sharpe Photographers

Trend - Dismiss Beauty Enhancers

Don't underestimate your natural beauty! Before choosing false eyelashes, penciled brows or lip enhancers, work with a stylist to see what they could do to enhance your natural beauty before adding to much additional. You may be pleasantly surprised (and saved some big bucks!).

Photo provided by Sharpe Photographers

Tip - Discuss Detail Shots With Your Photographer

Ask your photographer what time they or their team will be arriving at the church or ceremony location. You want to make sure that they get some shots of the venue before the ceremony begins to capture the natural beauty and decor details without all the people. You want to capture every element that you spent so much time coordinating, creating and setting up.

Photo provided by The Memory Journalists

Trend - Program Fans

A folding fan can make a great accessory for your wedding day guests. It can help shield them from sun or wind. Some crafty couples have their wedding program printed on flat fans and this doubles as a keepsake. You can also tie a small wedding program off the end of the fan for guests instead of printing on the fans. Photo provided by Sharpe Photographers

Dynamite Weddings Workshop!

Thanks to all the Dynamite Experts that participated in the Dynamite Weddings Workshop last Sunday! The brides have given the event great reviews so far, saying things like: "This workshop/class setup beats a regular bridal expo any day. The "hands-on" learning in the workshop, and learning from experts in-person provide a great head start for wedding planning. It was much better than reading advice from a magazine!"

The brides loved the themed tables:

Zen Garden
(flowers by Lilygrass Fresh Flower Design, storyboard by The Memory Journalists, table cards by Stephanie J Designs, dress from Bella Donna Bridal Salon, all tabletop items and chairs from Celebrations! Elegant Party Rentals)
Funky Chic
((flowers by Visual Impact Design, storyboard by Profinish Design, table cards by Stephanie J Designs, dress from Bella Donna Bridal Salon, all tabletop items and chairs from Celebrations! Elegant Party Rentals)
Current Trends
(flowers by Flourish Designs, storyboard by Dynamite Weddings, table cards by Stephanie J Designs, dress from Bella Donna Bridal Salon, all tabletop items and chairs from Celebrations! Elegant Party Rentals)
Outdoor Chic
(flowers by Visual Impact Design, storyboard by Allison Stahl Photography, table cards by Stephanie J Designs, dress from Bella Donna Bridal Salon, all tabletop items and chairs from Celebrations! Elegant Party Rentals)
Sparkling Glam

(flowers by Blooms by Martha Andrews, storyboard by Sharpe Photographers, table cards by Stephanie J Designs, dress from Bella Donna Bridal Salon, all tabletop items and chairs from Celebrations! Elegant Party Rentals)
Thanks to The Memory Journalists for capturing great photos throughout the event!

Tip - Let Your Dress Breathe

Don't forget to take your dress out a few days or week before the wedding and let it breathe. Don't forget to fluff it frequently. If your dress is at family or friend's house, make the trek or ask them to take on the responsibility. If you're dress touches the floor when out of the bag, consider placing a towel underneath to avoid picking up dirt.

Photo provided by The Memory Journalists

Trend - Sweet Succulents

Consider a collection of individually potted succulents as a centerpiece. These can also double as guest favors that can be taken home and planted in their own yard. This will save you the trouble of clearing the tables at the end of the night and will save on tons of materials being wasted.

Photo provided by The Memory Journalists

Trend - Minimal Decor With A Big Impact

It's not necessary to have huge floral centerpieces on your tables to create a display with impact. Discuss minimalist options with your florist. They may have some great ideas on working with willow branches and candles or other possible elements. Florists now have design ideas and access to materials way beyond just traditional florals.

Photo provided by Flourish

Tip - The Importance Of Rentals

The right linens can really help illustrate your wedding style or theme. Choose a rental company whose book you've seen, if you're planning your own wedding. The right rental coordinator can help you choose the perfect linens to really set the style for your wedding.

Photo provided by Celebrations! Elegant Party Rentals

Trend - Outdoor Receptions

Outdoor wedding receptions are becoming more of a tradition, than a trend. When hosting an outdoor wedding reception, be sure to consider the elements. If there's a possibility that the weather could become too hot or cold, having a tent helps shield guests from the elements while still enjoying the beauty of the outdoors.Photo provided by Celebrations! Elegant Party Rentals

Tip - No Skid

Heels or flats, open toe or not, slingback or full back? Either way, be sure to test the pair that you pick on a hardwood surface and outside to be sure that the tread on the bottom is sufficient. If not, consult the shoe store you bought them from (Nordstrom will give you no skid pads) or purchase some to be sure you stay upright on your big day.Photo provided by The Memory Journalists

Trend - Sparkling Jewels Unveiled

Choosing a veil with some sparkling jewels can add some glittering shots for photos and video, especially when the sun bounces off them!Photo provided by Profinish Design

Tip - Make A List, Check It Twice

Make a checklist before the wedding of all the necessary items for you to get ready (garter, earrings, bracelet, necklace, perfume, etc.). Give a copy of the list to your maid of honor who will help ensure that all the key bridal items make it to the right spot.Photo provided by The Memory Journalists

Trend - Church Accents

Some random shots of the sun shining through church stained glass windows can add elegant ambiance to your afternoon ceremony. Discuss with your photographer the best time of day for lighting.

Photo provided by Profinish Design

Tip - Reminiscent Scents

Test out different scents leading up to your wedding day. Purchase something new that makes you feel "bridal" and after the wedding you will get a touch nostalgic every time you put it on. It's a great reminder of your fabulous wedding.Photo provided by The Memory Journalists

Trend - Sustainable Clothing

Looking for a chic frock to wear to your girlfriend's wedding or to your own rehearsal dinner? Check out Mr. Larkin's sustainable clothing, made with milk fiber, cuthro and organic cottons. Recycled vintage embellishments make these sustainable items even more appealing!

Photo courtesy of Shopflick.com

Tip - Soon To Be Mrs...

Cute personalized attire is great for your getting ready pics! If someone doesn't get you something for your shower, consider ordering one yourself. Not just for great pics; you can wear it on your honeymoon!

Photo provided by The Memory Journalists

Tip - Light By Fire

Tiki torches or hanging lanterns at a backyard wedding can enhance the most casual or elegant wedding. When the sun goes down and the fire is creating ambient lighting, which also makes for great pictures and saves on renting additional lighting.

Photo provided by The Memory Journalists

Trend - Unique Bridal Gift Ideas

Find your bridesmaids unique gifts that they can get excited about. Sacred Charms is an online jewelry boutique, whose designers draw inspiration from nature and their spirituality. Their color combinations are creative and beautiful. This handcrafted jewelry will be a piece that your friends can dress up or dress down and will surely get compliments on.

Photo courtesy of Sacred Charms

Tip - Look For Inspiration In Everything

When picking out items or deciding on details for your wedding, you may surprised where your inspiration may come from. Keep your eye out for colors, designs, patterns, materials that you're drawn to.

Photo provided by The Memory Journalists

Trend - Themed Bridal Showers

Throwing a bridal shower for your best friend could be one of the hardest parties you'll ever host, unless.... you know about the Hostess With the Mostess! Hostess has parties broken down by occasion, creates a design, sets the stage and tells you exactly how to get that look! What more could you ask for?! I love this Butterfly Meadow theme for a bridal shower.

Photos courtesy of Hostess With the Mostess

Tip - Take Stock Of Family Decor

Take stock of your and your family's candlesticks and holders to see if you can find an eclectic style that fits your wedding day style, without having to rent or buy.

Photo provided by The Memory Journalists

Trend - Red and Yellow Make...Fun!

This summer, red and yellow are bright inspirational colors that can stand out as primary wedding colors or add a powerful complement to a black and/or white wedding. a great place to do it is with your drinks. Hostess with the Mostess put together a lovely drink tray with a few great options.

(Clockwise from left: Pomegranate Martini & Yellow Passion Fruit Caipirinha {via Brides}; Tequila Sunrise; Bloody Mary “Light” featuring organic tomato water as the “juice”; Screwdriver & Ruby Red Grapefruit cocktails on the rocks)

Trend - What Kind of Cupcake Are You?

Not sure what kind of cake, cupcake or dessert station to create for your wedding day? Take the Betty Crocker cupcake challenge first and see what it tells you about yourself. This may help give your cake designer a starting point to help find your best fit.

While I can't guarantee 100% accuracy with this quiz, they were pretty right on labeling me a PB&J cupcake! Yummy!

"You Are a PB&J Cupcake. These cupcakes are equal parts bold, playful and adventurous. Sound familiar…like anyone you know? While some will find them untraditional, you will find them exciting!"

What kind of cupcake are you?!

Photo courtesy of Betty Crocker

Don't Miss Tomorrow's Unique Bridal Workshop and Class!

Hurry! There's only a few spots left to attend!

Dynamite Weddings and Real Weddings Magazine are hosting the Wedding Class & Workshop this Sunday, May 17, from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. at the Citizen Hotel in downtown Sacramento! We're teaming up to offer you an interactive 2 for 1 event, including a wedding class and workshop. Ignite Your Bridal Style is the theme behind this engaging, pressure free experience. There will be a chance for brides to participate in activity stations, share constructive chats with local professionals and enjoy guest speakers, fine food, champagne, a wedding planning binder and an exclusive parting gift.

Also, we'll be raffling a GRAND PRIZE give-a-way to one lucky bride valued at more than $700!

Trend - Under the Sea

Some couples are starting their beach vaca theme early, with a sea/ocean inspired wedding. If the water is your favorite place to visit together, where he proposed or just somewhere that you don't get to enough, why not bring it to the city for you and your guests? Discuss with your vendors the best way to incorporate these elements into your reception without it looking like a seafood restaurant chain. It can be fun, colorful, creative and still look chic.

Photo courtesy of Steamy Kitchen, design by Ms. Debbie

Tip - Bring Out The Classics

If you have a family member or friend with a classic car hiding under a cover, ask them if you can use it as your wedding day transportation. They will most likely be honored that you asked and be able to score some great pics of their classic beauty.

Photo provided by Allison Stahl Photography

Trend - Salty Treats

One of the food trends for 2009 is colored and flavored salts! They come in variety of flavors ranging from lavender to smoked paprika. They can be used to garnish the entrees or set out on the dinner tables for your guests to pick and choose.

Photo courtesy of Steamy Kitchen

Tip - Bring Out The Family Time Piece

Tell your soon-to-be to break out that family heirloom time piece he's been protecting. Your wedding is a great time to use it, share it with the family and snap a few memorable pics of it. If you look back, you may find a wedding day pic of the original family owner using it on his wedding day!Photo provided by Allison Stahl Photography

Trend - Candy Stations

Candy stations are a huge trend and if you don't purchase your candies, gum, mints, etc. online, be sure to visit stores that carry these items in bulk to save money (Costco, Sam's Club, Smart & Final, etc.)Photo provided by The Memory Journalists

Tip - Detail Duty

Don't forget about dressing up the traditionally less appealing necessities of your wedding. This can be as simple as adding a floral wreath.

Photo provided by Allison Stahl Photography

Tip - Add A Touch Of Difference

If you've always imagined your bouquet with one specific bloom, like roses, but want to add a splash of another color ask your florist what would complement your vision best.Photo provided by Allison Stahl Photography

Trend - Beads Galore

Simply strung beads can add elegance to any draped fabrics, napkins, or florals.

Photo provided by The Memory Journalists

Trend - Self Serve Stations

Self serve non-alcoholic beverages can be a huge hit and weddings and keep traffic down at the bar.

Photo provided by Allison Stahl Photography

Tip - Eclectic Florals

If you're thinking of having a casual outdoor wedding, keep your florals with the theme by using fresh, mixed seasonal blooms with a combination of different styles of jars and vases you own or borrowed from your family.

Photo provided Allison Stahl Photography

Tip - Bouquet Wrap Details

While you may think that no one will notice your bouquet stem wrap as you're walking down the aisle, envision what it will look like on your table and in your album pictures.Photo provided by Allison Stahl Photography