enjoy your holiday weekend!

Happy Halloween from Pearls Events. This photo makes me smile--it's Molly's yorkie, Ringo, and he is pretty cute in his pirate costume. Olive is going to be a prisioner, complete with tiny hat.

Enjoy your holiday weekend--I hope all my US readers have fun parties to attend. In West Michigan, it is right around 60 degrees today, which means I might need more candy to pass out. And if you're looking for some last minute Halloween party ideas, don't miss this gorgeous post on Ritzy Bee today.

finding a unique spot

If you read photographer's blogs, you'll see a lot of the same thing--wedding party photos downtown, at the beach, at church. Don't get me wrong, I love an urban photo shoot, but what about making the photos special to you? Incorporating a special location into your photos will make them unique + personal.

If you travel often, this plane lends a nice backdrop. If you met at a coffee shop or your university's library, I like the idea of using those locations as a backdrop for wedding party photos. And if you're high school sweethearts, what about the football stadium where you spent Friday nights with all your friends? Find a unique location, and make time to get there on your wedding day--you'll be happy you did.

[photo of Kerri + Olive by Ryan Prins Photography]

blogger comments...

My comment function has been wacky lately, as I've gotten a couple emails about how people cannot see the word verification through my polka dot background. I think it's all fixed now, but please let me know (via email, since you obviously won't be able to comment!) if you're still have problems.

spotlight :: jones street press

When I received Bree + Brad's save-the-date in the mail, I was SO excited to see something completely unique. Then, the wedding invitation arrived, and again, I was blown away with the creativity! Little did I know that Jones Street Press had custom designed these pieces for Bree + Brad, and that the company was brand spankin' new.

On the day of the wedding, there was Jones Street Press items scattered throughout the ceremony + reception site--from the programs and lemonade sign at the ceremony site, to the table numbers, cupcake flags + wine labels at the reception--all utterly beautiful.

After the wedding, Bree got me in touch with Chrissy of Jones Street Press, and I got a chance to get to know her + her company a bit more. Please enjor our little Q+A!

Pearls Events :: Tell us a little bit about yourself...
Chrissy :: I live in Glendale, AZ, a suburb in Northwest Phoenix, with my husband Jeremy and our two yellow labs Mason and Dixon. I moved to Phoenix six years ago this coming January from Savannah, Georgia where I attended the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). Jeremy and I met one another the second day I was in town after being introduced by his cousin, one of my dearest friends from college. We were married in April 2007 in Savannah, GA! From our wedding the idea for Jones Street Press was born. While we don’t have any kids yet, we both look forward to having a big rambunctious family of our own one day. Jeremy wants all boys but I have my fingers crossed for at least one girl.

Currently I divide my time between building Jones Street Press, working my office day-job, and completing my Masters in Mass Communication at Arizona State University. I graduate this coming May!
In my spare time, I like to hike, work out, cook, and watch college football.

Pearls Events :: What got you interested in doing wedding invitations?
Chrissy :: I’ve always loved weddings but I didn’t fully understand the creative potential in them until I planned my own. I fell in love with designing the mood of the event and found so much of that feeling was accomplished from the pieces of stationery we sent our guests. Everything from the stamps to the calligraphy was meticulously planned. In a sense, paper framed our day and set our guests expectations. Afterwards, I didn’t want to stop “designing moods” so I started my own invitation, stationery and paper goods business.

Pearls Events:: What inspires your designs?
Chrissy :: My life is really what feeds Jones Street. Inspiration is found in my husband, our dogs, family, friends, enemies, travels, and the many places I have called home. I’ve been blessed with a mixture of eccentric people and crazy events throughout my life and I hope that continues because without the good, the bad and the unexpected I would be much less interesting and so would my work. But most importantly my clients inspire me. The work I produce should exude their personality and spirit. If I can capture that I have done my job.

Pearls Events :: When did you start your business?
Chrissy :: I started Jones Street Press in August of 2007 but didn’t start churning out work until January 2008.

Pearls Events :: What sort of price range do your products fall into?
Chrissy :: Jones Street’s prepackaged stationery items (which I hope to have available on the Web site soon) range in price from $10-$15 per pack while custom designs start at $25 per pack. Semi-custom invitations range in price from $3-$7 per invitations depending on the materials used and customizations. Full scale custom design prices are based on the complexity of the design and materials used.

Pearls Events :: What did you want to be when you grew up?
Chrissy :: I always knew I would do something creative because my brain demanded it. Growing up I watched numerous classic films with my dad and there was just something so romantic about the golden age of movies. I yearned to be a part of it, to create something that was timeless. With aspirations to write, produce or cast movies, I graduated from college with a degree in Film/Video Production & Theater Production. From there I interned at HBO on the series Sex and the City, worked on the film Radio, and several other small projects. Unable to secure my foot in the proverbial door, I moved to Arizona and decided to return to school. It just goes to show that even when our best laid plans don’t work out there can be something fantastic waiting around the corner!

Pearls Events :: Where are you located?
Chrissy :: Currently, I run Jones Street Press from my home in Glendale, Arizona. My goal is to open a storefront someday and continue to expand the Jones Street brand.

Pearls Events :: What is your fav coffee drink?
Chrissy :: I love a plain old cup of drip coffee with two Splenda and half & half from The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf but, if I am feeling especially feisty, I get a raspberry latté from Starbucks.

Pearls Events :: Where do you enjoy vacationing?
Chrissy :: I love visiting Savannah, GA (I’m secretly plotting against my husband to return there someday) and traveling to Jeremy’s parent’s home in Ludington, MI. Summers by Lake Michigan with family can’t be beat! We both have an adventurous spirit however, so experiencing new places will always be a part of our lives.

real wedding :: a picture's worth photography

Another amazing wedding with some fantastic details from Kris Noorman of A Picture's Worth Photography in West Michigan. I absolutely adore the flowers, green cupcake stands (which are from Pottery Barn), and the location--the Belvedere Inn in Saugatuck, Michigan. Kris has an amazing eye for detail, and she rocked this wedding, yet again!

new michigan wedding publication

I'm pretty excited to tell you there is a new Michigan wedding magazine in the works, MyNorth, and one of our weddings will be featured in the very first issue.

Daisy + Greg's gorgeous August 2 wedding at The Homestead in Glen Arbor is slated for a five page spread as a "real northern michigan wedding". All of the photos are by Amy Carroll, and although I haven't seen the layout, I've heard that there are great detail shots of our work--from escort cards + table numbers, to the centerpieces + candles. Of course it helps that The Homestead is a beautiful location, and Daisy + Greg aren't too bad looking themselves.

I'll keep you posted when it hits local newstands.

real wedding :: twigs + honey

Earlier this month at Bree + Brad's fabulous wedding, I spotted the work of Myra from Twigs + Honey and asked Amy to get a photo of it with the tag still on, because who doesn't love a good promo shot?

Bree wore a veil during the ceremony, but opted to change it up by switching to this fabulous hair piece after they said their vows. It was a perfect addition to her overall look, as Myra took a piece of extra lace that Bree ordered and incorporated it into the piece. It was a stunning piece of art and Myra outdid herself again!

photo preview :: felicia + jeremy

These are all shots taken by a friend of the bride with her hot little camera. There were SO many great details that Felicia + Jeremy planned, and it all came together beautifully on the day-of the wedding. Check out that wedding cake--I'm totally in love!

pearls events :: photo blog of the week

This week, I came across pink sugar's blog that I wanted to share. It might have to do with the beauty of Edmonton, CAN, but Andrea Hanki produces some awesome photos. Enjoy this week's photographer pick!

happy anniversary :: laura + pete

One year ago today, I was setting up the gorgeous ballroom at St. Cecilia's Music Society for Laura + Pete's beautiful wedding. I got to know Laura before I opened Pearls Events, as she approached me about being her day-of-coordinator and she was my first official client!

Sadly, they moved to Denver shortly after their wedding. This weekend Laura flew into town to pick up their anniversary cake and I was excited to spend some time with her--as she assisted me with Felicia + Jeremy's wedding on Saturday.

I'm excited to tell you that they are expecting their first child, a little boy, on January 11th! She is one of those adorable pregnant girls that is glowing. Congrats on your one year anniversary and on little Jackson. Greg and I are looking forward to visiting you two in early '09.

(photo by Jonathan Thrasher)

real weddings 2008 :: felicia + jeremy

Couple :: Felicia + Jeremy, 10.25.08
Pearls Events service :: Day of coordination
Ceremony :: Muskegon Fifth Reformed Church
Reception :: Fruitport Banquet Center
Caterer + Cake :: Ryke's
Florist :: Essential Designs
Linens :: Chair Cover Collection
DJ :: Millennium Entertainment
Favors :: Candy buffet

Laura + I arrived at church an hour before the ceremony to pin on flowers and get everyone calm + collected before they walked down the aisle. Felicia was stunning in her gown, and her veil was one of my favorites this season with delicate embroidery around the edges. The bridesmaids wore elegant taffeta gowns in ruby red and the guys were sporting formal tuxedos with black bow ties--downright classy. The traditional Christian ceremony was officiated by Jeremy's grandpa, and was a little nostalgic, as he married Jeremy's parents at the same church years before.

Laura + I facilitated formal photos before heading to Fruitport Banquet Center for a few final touches to the ballroom. The wedding party arrived and were announced into the intimate reception of seventy guests by Dave from Millennium Entertainment. The ballroom was gorgeous with the ruby red + crisp white linens from Chair Cover Collection, dozens of red roses and romantic candlelight everywhere.

Dinner, from local favorite Ryke's, was served promptly at six, and the newlyweds cut their stunning 5-tier cake, also by Ryke's, shortly thereafter. Dancing began around 7:30 and the party was underway until right around 10:30, as guests made their way back to their hotel rooms for the evening.

Felicia + Jeremy--best wishes to you as you continue your life together! If I'm ever in Texas, you'll be the first to know.

a small influence

I was raised on The Gap and J. Crew--and I'm still a loyal customer. Of course I drool over dreamy magazine spreads, but it is not practical for me to wear $800 pants. Ever.

While in college, I got my first peek at haute couture. I had never heard of Yves Saint Laurent until freshman year. Mrs. Greensley introduced me to the greats, and for that, I am thankful. Little did I know that I was attending the former Ray College of Design where Lazaro Perez had studied years before me and even won an award for Best New Bridal Designer.

If I recall correctly, it was Fall 2001 when Lazaro gave an hour long presentation for our American Marketing Association group at The Illinois Institute of Art. He brought in sample gowns and talked about his experience and the bridal industry in general. I remember thinking, Wow, this guy absolutely loves his job. I was smitten with his work, and as a fashion marketing major, I knew I wanted to work in the bridal industry someday.

Earlier this week on Darcy's blog, The Bride's Guide, she posted the above photo of Lazaro at last weeks bridal market and it instantly brought back this memory. Sure, Lazaro has no idea who I am, but the presentation he gave that day made a lasting impression on me.

inexpensive rehearsal dinners

Since the rehearsal isn't the main event of the weekend, it's perfectly fine to not go overboard, especially if it's not in your budget. As far as dinner goes, sometimes a casual meal with your friends + family can be more memorable than a generic meal at a fancy restaurant.

When you're on a budget, finding a location might prove to be difficult. There are many options, but you might have to think outside the box to find one that works for you. Does your church have a hall? What about your friend's glorious backyard? How about a local park?

As far as food, there are many options. Setting up a buffet with a variety of pizza choices, salad, and garlic bread will entice any hungry bridal party. If pizza isn't your thing, you could do ribs, chicken + salad. A lot of restaurants do on-site catering for less than you might think, so call around to your favorites and see what might work for you.

(edited at 3:39pm with new info from bride)
The photos above are from Laura + Pete's rehearsal one year ago today. They threw their own rehearsal dinner for 60 guests at a local pub for under $650. It was casual + fun, the food was excellent and everyone had a great time visiting with one another, as most of the guests were from out of town. All photos + layout by Jonathan Thrasher.

bespoke on associations

Earlier this week, Monica from Bespoke posted a great article about professional associations. If you are in the wedding industry, joining one of these groups might have crossed your mind. If you've ever considered joining an association, check out Monica's post for some great responses.

Early on, I asked myself if I should belong to any groups, especially the well-known, local one. After doing a bit of research, I heard the same ole' thing--they didn't seem to be very beneficial. One of my fellow local planners had a terrible experience she shared with me, which cemented my decision not to join.

Earlier this month, Amanda from Bliss Weddings contacted me about the new Michigan Wedding and Event Professionals, which I'm excited about. It's free, and it's really about networking and having a good time. No boring speakers, or one person leading the group while the others listen. This group is about community and getting to know your colleagues in the industry. If you're interested in joining, please send me an email at aletha(at)pearlsevents(dot)com.

rockstar readers

I've had a blast watching my readers faces pop up on the lefthand side of my blog over the past few weeks. Blogger has added this feature to all blog, you just need to go into your layout and add a "gadget" to the sidebar. Once it's there, anyone who has a Gmail account can click on "follow blog" and start following along in GoogleReader, and also in your dashboard. It makes it quite easy to follow your favorite reads. It also links to YOUR blog, making it a little like link love. Thank you to all my rockstar readers!

Beau-coup winner

Abbie is our lucky winner of the $50 Beau-coup giftcard contest. She's got an adorable little blog, A Glimpse of the Girl Next Door, so check it out if you don't already read.

Abbie, please send me an email at aletha(at)pearlsevents(dot)com with your email address and I'll get the gift card to you as soon as possible!

unique photos around west michigan

(photo by sjo photography)

Fall has settled across Michigan, which means trips to the local orchard for a doughnut, hayride, fresh cider and maybe a caramel apple. However, it's not too often you see a wedding party hanging out among the fresh honey crisps. I love these wedding party photos at Robinettes in NE Grand Rapids.

say hello to carnations

If you are a client of mine, you already know I love inexpensive carnations and the effect they have when grouped tightly together.

Earlier this week, while reading Lotus Photographic's blog, I came across another fantastic example of these lovelies. All the carnations above are by Modern Day Floral in Grand Rapids, and they are quite fantastic. The key is keeping everything packed tightly and sticking to one color per arrangement. Check out the post I wrote last December--it's one of my most-viewed.

(photos copyright Lotus Photographic)

one amazing chuppah

(photos by apertura)

We are using a chuppah at one of the weddings we're planning next September, and I've been on the lookout for major inspiration. Today I found what I've been looking for. I came across the wedding of Julie + Roozbeh, and from the photos above, you can see their amazing chuppah. I'm diggin' it, and hope my clients do too. See the whole wedding with many more photos on Elizabeth Anne Designs.

pearls events :: photo blog of the week

Each Sunday I search for a photographer's blog that I want to share with you. There are so many out there, it's hard to pick just one. Today I came across Melissa Squires' blog, a girl in love. Plus, don't miss her website, as it's chock full of pretty things.

photo preview :: amy + chad

Amy + Chad's wedding last Saturday was glorious! This is my little sneak peak, but Amy Carroll has the entire wedding preview on her blog.

mixing neutrals

(design :: janie medley flora design)

Neutrals. We all know them :: white, ivory, black, brown, charcoal, champagne, taupe, gray...

If you would have asked me one year ago how I felt about about mixing gray + brown, I would have told you my strong opinion about how you must never do such a thing with a warm + cool color. Earlier this week, however, I met up with one of my fabulous '09 clients who wants to do just that.

Since her reception venue is mostly warm--oranges, reds, yellows, and gorgeous, dark wood--she's eyeing brown linens. It's going to be fabulous--luxurious espresso bichon on the tables and ivory lamour napkins to keep our room warm + intimate. Candlelight and small flower collections on each table will make it romantic.

My concern? The bridesmaid's gowns are this amazing shade of platinum. When she told me she was thinking espresso linens with the platinum dresses, my former self about fell over. How can we do warm and cool in the same room? Once I pulled myself together and saw her vision, the ideas began flowing.

What perfect timing when, this morning, I came across the above photo on The Bride's Cafe. The floral design is by Janie Medley, and it's exactly what I needed to push me into cheering for the charcoal + chocolate combo. Instead of yellow flowers, however, we'll be doing white--peonies, tulips, carnations(!), roses, etc.--with greens mixed in and tall willow branches as well.

Need further proof that mixing neutrals work? Check out Monica's Bride + Bloom feature with black, brown + ivory. One word :: glamorous!

super 8mm

Don + Joanne of Take 1 Productions are always keeping me up-to-date on what's hot in videography. Earlier this week, they sent me this super 8mm film that they shot. I love the look of 8mm film--there's a vintage, real feel to it that cannot be duplicated with digital film.

real wedding :: a picture's worth photography

Kris Noorman, of A Picture's Worth Photography, is an amazing photographer from Michigan who I follow closely. I had the pleasure of meeting her last winter, and she's one of those down-to-earth people who you want to invite over for dinner. Her recent wedding of Laura + Steve had awesome details, which Kris captured perfectly. Check out the gorgeous church, out-of-this-world flowers, and adorable cupcakes in the whole post on the blog.

pearls events :: giveaway

Fall is settling into West Michigan, which means our wedding season will soon come to a close. Although I am not a huge fan of the dreary days that West Michigan winters bring, I very much enjoy the cute accessories the season brings.

To celebrate our '08 season, we're giving away a $50 gift certificate to Beau-coup, a company known industry-wide as the place for favors, to one lucky reader. All you need to do to enter is comment with your favorite Beau-coup winter wedding favor on this post.

The giveaway will end one week from today, October 22nd at 6am, EST. The winner will be chosen at random and announced that afternoon. GOOD LUCK!

from blog post to real wedding

I love when my blog posts inspire brides, especially my own clients.

In June, I posted about drink dispensers from Pottery Barn and I even saw some other bloggers pass the information along. Last weekend, I got to see Bree's drink dispensers in action, filled with both lemonade + iced tea. Guests enjoyed refreshments as they waited to take the ski lift down the mountain after Bree + Brad's hilltop ceremony.

happy anniversary :: mary + jeff

Mary + Jeff's wedding was on an absolutely beautiful day last October. Happy Anniversary you two--enjoy the day together!!

(photo by Daniel J Pesta)

pearls events :: photo blog of the week

Tifany, of Gourmet Invitations, turned me onto The Shooting Gallery a while ago. I soon realized that Dionne is among the most talented photographers in the state of Michigan. If you don't already read her blog, you must start. Enjoy a week of going through the archives of The Shooting Gallery's blog.

photo preview :: bree + brad

Bree + Brad planned one amazing, detailed-filled weekend, and Amy captured it just like Bree knew she would. Check out the whole post here and click the photo to see it much larger.

real wedding 2008 :: amy + chad

Couple :: Amy + Chad, 10.11.08
Pearls Events service :: Day of coordination + Set up
Ceremony :: St. Patrick
Reception :: Camp Blodgett
Photographer :: Amy Carroll Photography
Videographer :: Captured Productions
Caterer :: Anything Goes Catering + More
Bar :: Seaway Party Store
Cake :: Sweet Cakes Design
Florist :: Shelly's Designs Florist
Rentals :: Chair Cover Collection
DJ :: D James Productions
Transportation :: Grand Rapids Trolley Company
Extra fun :: a photobooth, Custom CD's, milk shooters + cookies

I woke up yesterday to a forecast of clear skies, temps in the mid-70's and an all-around gorgeous day. My amazing assistant, Alison, arrived at Camp Blodgett at 10am to place mirrors before Shelly's Designs set up the centerpieces. Alison was also in charge of the escort card table, favors, and stringing lights around the deck. I worked on the fireplace mantle decor and then was off to St. Patrick's with flowers and girls in pretty dresses.

The ceremony at St. Patrick was one of the most lovely weddings I've ever attended. Father Bill happens to be someone I've known for the past 14 years and he is far from your average priest. I have a feeling every guest will remember that ceremony for years to come. Plus, Aaron + Renee from Captured Productions have it on video to share.

After the bubble exit, I grabbed lunch for Alison + myself and headed back to Camp Blodgett while the wedding party hopped on the trolley. Amy took the group downtown Grand Haven for photos.

Since we arrived quite early, Alison + I enjoyed our lunch on the deck, went down to the lake and relaxed while other vendors began arriving. As guests started trickling in, the staff from Anything Goes brought out passed appetizers. The wedding party was introduced by James of D James Productions followed by toasts, prayer and a plated dinner.

Cake was cut, the couple started dancing, and the rest of the night was a huge celebration with family + friends. Guests enjoyed the photobooth, cake, bar, and milk + cookies throughout the evening and the party did not stop after the deejay packed up. After changing out of their formal wear, they headed to the beach for a bonfire on the shores of Lake Michigan.

CONGRATS TO AMY + CHAD!

working spaces

(a lovely work space :: jessica johnston's studio)

A couple weeks ago, I got a request from a photographer friend. He wanted to know if I would be able to assist in putting together the finishing touches on his new studio. He already ordered furniture and painted the walls, but wanted my assistance in bringing everything together with a few accent pieces + decor items.

Earlier this week, we went over ideas of what might work, what he liked, and what the overall vision was. His homework was to go shopping and find what he liked off the list. Once he shops, I will return to make sure his studio is warm + inviting, and a reflection of him + his work.

I look forward to posting the before + after shots. Stay tuned...

twelve centerpieces on your hands?

(flowers by pearls events + shelly's designs. photos by amy carroll)

Now that you have tied the knot and have a dozen centerpieces on your hands, what do you do with them? Amanda from Bliss Weddings wrote a great article on her blog that I wanted to pass on today. Make sure you check out the whole post for more great ideas.

1) Donate your flowers to a nursing home.
2) Give a little floral inspiration to your favorite people.
3) Donate your flowers to a battered women’s shelter or a children’s home
4) A local hospital would really appreciate the gift!
5) Sell them.
6) Have them preserved.

ordering flowers

(becky + her lovely bouquet. amy carroll photography)

When you finalize your flowers, one of many things your florist will ask is how many personal flowers (bouquets, corsages + boutonnieres) you will need. Traditionally, you'll need a bouquet for each bridesmaid and a boutonniere for each groomsman, but what about the guitarist and the guest book attendant?

If it's in your budget, I suggest ordering flowers for everyone taking part--from the minister and soloist to the reader and organist. However, at minimum, I recommend ordering flowers for the wedding party, your parents and grandparents.

And if flowers aren't for you, get creative! A spiffy pocket square can outshine a boring boutonniere any day.

michigan wedding + event professionals

Michigan Wedding & Event Professionals (MWEP) is a network of fabulous Michigan wedding + event companies. Amanda, of Bliss Weddings, recently started this for Michigan professionals to network with each other. If you are interested in joining, please send her an email (amanda@yourblisswedding.com) and she will forward the information your way. This is going to be an exciting project, but it will only be as good as the members! You have nothing to lose--it's completely free! If you have questions, please feel free to contact either of us.

Join the LinkedIn group
Visit the brand new blog

returning your rentals

(flowers by sunnyslope, ribbon attached by pearls events, photo by dusty brown)

Some brides overlook the day after duties while planning their wedding. And I can see why--it isn't exciting! But if you do not have prior arrangements, you may be thinking about it on your wedding day, and what bride wants to worry about where the cake stand is going the night of her wedding?

Most friends + family are happy to load up gifts into their car for the traditional Sunday brunch, but having someone bring 45 fragile vases to the florist all the way across town on Monday morning might be a pain. My advice is to discuss this with your parents, siblings, and/or helpful friend to see if anyone a.) has time on Monday and b.) has enough room in their vehicle. If your vendor offers a pick up service, even for a small fee, I recommend having them retrieve their items, as it's easiest for everyone involved.

And if you have a wedding planner or day-of-coordinator, they most likely offer this service as well.

alphabetizing the escort cards

(designed by daisy rizzo, set up by pearls events, photo by amy carroll)

Upon arriving at wedding receptions, guests are sometimes greeted with the escort card table. In my experience, it's important to 1.) make it flow with the rest of your design elements, since it's the first peek at your planning the guests will see and 2.) make it as easy as possible to find each name to avoid a back up of guests entering. This also allows them to drop off their (possibly heavy!) gift quickly, sign the guestbook and join cocktail hour.

This weekend I arrived at one of my events to find a beautiful table covered in homegrown moss with a gorgeous flower arrangement and all of the guest's escort cards. I gave it my once over, and soon realized the cards were not in alphabetical order, but instead, grouped together by table number. To say the least, I was a bit concerned, as I know how long it takes to look through 150 little cards that are in alphabetical order. Most often, I greet guests and help locate their name, and I was concerned this could frustrate guests who were eager to enjoy appetizers.

A family friend was on the same page as I was, and we quickly became alphabetizing machines. Only after we finished the madness of reorganizing them, did we find out the bride intended her escort cards to be displayed in this non-alphabetical manner. I felt terrible that I had gone against her wishes, but knew that it'd be appreciated by the guests.

shutterbooth fun

Bree + Brad hired Wade at The Shutterbooth for their wedding favors. It was a total blast, and guests had a fun time using it. (And as you see here, so did Amy + Angie + I right before they cut their cake.) I love how Bree sent The Shutterbooth her wedding day logo to put right on the photostrips. What a great detail!

pearls events :: photo blog of the week

This week I want to share with you the blog of Amelia Lyon. Her style is out-of-this-world and honestly, I think she's one of my favorite photographers right now. Her work is full of texture and has a vintage feel to it. Enjoy a week of Amelia Lyon's archives--you are sure to be inspired!

happy anniversary :: sarah + dan

Today marks my official one-year anniversary of weddings under the Pearls Events name. One year ago today, I was off at Cascade Hills Country Club setting up the ballroom with amazing linens and out-of-this-world flowers for Sarah + Dan's reception.

The past year, Sarah + Dan have become great friends of ours--Greg and I are lucky to have such awesome, fun people to hang out with. We had a blast camping with them over Fourth of July this past summer and look forward to many more great times once wedding season slows down for me come November.

Their wedding is going to be featured in the next issue of The Knot, Michigan and was also the WeddingBee's bio of the week in January.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY SARAH + DAN!