O is for Olde

"Something olde,

            something new,

          something borrowed,

            something blue,

                                 and a silver sixpence in your shoe."

 

 

There are numerous ways to incorporate "something old" into the wedding. The tradition originating from the old English ryhme above refers to the bride's family and close friends giving her gifts to show love and bring good luck. The old represents the continity between the past and future, the new is optimism for the future, borrowed refers to happiness borrowed from others and the blue symbolizes love and purity (theKnot.com).

 

From something small and sentimental, to something with a large "wow" factor, here are some suggestions for old items to have with you or use on your wedding day:

 

Wedding transportation: How about a classic car?

 

 

 

Clothing and accessories: Do you own any heirloom pieces of jewelry?

     Consider sewing a button or fabric from your parents' wedding clothing inside of the wedding

     dress.

     Wear a veil that has been handed down through generations.

     Incorporate antique ribbon or an old hat pin or brooch into the bouquet.

 

Location: Choose an historic venue to hold the ceremony and/or reception.

 

Photograph of the Contemporary Arts Center in 1970. Now, the location of The Center! :)

 

 

Images: Are there any great photographs from your parents' or grandparents' weddings? What about pictures of the bride and groom from his and her childhoods? You can carry these images with you, or have them on display as reminders of the past as you move forward into the future.

 

Just for fun: Try incorporating old or out-dated technology - for example, use typewriters for the guest book entries.

 

Photograph by Christina Littleton Photography. November 2011 reception in The Center!

 

 

For these ideas and more, visit Voices.yahoo.com

 

You can probably handle the borrowing from family and friends, but where do you find a sixpence? There are companies who sell these as wedding keepsakes, or you can use a dime or penny as an alternative. This small touch is intended to represent wealth and financial security. (marthastewartweddings.com)

Oh, and we have you covered on the "something new" and "something blue" too! Our LED lit dome ceiling has a variety of color options and the recent renovations definitely qualify as new :)

 

 The Center

115 East Fifth Street

Cincinnati, Ohio 45202

 

 



 

 



Get to Know: Grand Expectations Events

Lauren Walker, founder and president of Grand Expectations Events, served as the wedding planner for the June 16, 2012 wedding and reception of Trena and Terence Dear. We were delighted to have this event take place in The Center and it was a pleasure getting to know Lauren, Trena and Terence in the months leading up to the event. Lauren was very cooperative as we coordinated with various vendors and we were so impressed with the colors and design that she and Trena chose for the day.

We asked Lauren about her experience in the industry and for some background information on Grand Expectation Events. Her attention to detail and the relationships she builds with vendors and her clients are evident in her work. Read below for more on how she is able to do what she loves with passion and style!

Personal Background:

Q: How long have you been in the industry?
A: I started Grand Expectations Events in 2009.

Q: What did you do before you became an event planner?
A: I was a Commercialization Specialist for JohnsonDiversey (a division of SJ Johnson, cleaning products).

Q: What are your favorite aspects of event planning?
A: I would say I love meeting so many people. It's great getting to know my clients and forming strong relationships. I also love keeping in touch after the wedding and seeing where their lives go.

Background on Grand Expectations Events:

Q: How did Grand Expectations Events get its start?
A: I always had desire to plan and host events. Through the years I was always the one friends and family went to for direction and style. In 2009, I got the opportunity to make my dreams a reality. It started right then and there, with passion and determination. I have been so fortunate to meet so many wonderful vendors as well as Brides.

Q: How many people are on staff?
A: Grand Expectations Events has grown and this year acquired the very capable Andrea Muhlhauser to take on more events. We look forward to growing even more in the future!

Q: What are your specialties?
A: I would say my specialty is details. I love all the little things that Brides want to do in order to increase the look of their day. I have good vision and can help them out with wanting to make their wedding unique.

Work in The Center:

Q: What do you like most about the venue?
A: I think it's such a unique space. The ballroom is a blank canvas and you can do whatever you want with the space. No two weddings will be alike there!

Q: If you could use The Center to design and host any event, what would it be and what would you do with the space?
A: There is so much you could do with the space it's hard to pick just one. I do think it would be really fun to "redo" plan my own wedding there. I love color and would add lots of it on the walls and tables. I would also love to take advantage of the entry space with the dome. An over the top cocktail hour would be very fitting there.

For contact information, pictures and reviews of Grand Expectations Events: CLICK HERE

See below for pictures of Lauren's planning expertise in action at The Center!

Trena and Terence Dear     *     Married June 16, 2012     *     The Center, Cincinnati, Ohio

 

 

The Ceremony

The ceremony was held beneath the dome ceiling.

 

 

The Reception

 



The linens brought so much color into the room and the centerpieces were unique and creative!

The lighting was provided by Party Pleasers.

 

The bridal party re-entering The Center between the ceremony and reception.

 

Congratulations to Trena and Terence! You have an amazing family and it was so nice to be able to share in the celebration!
 

N is for Name Cards

Name cards, (also known as place cards) are a nice, easy way to help your guests find their assigned seat.

Tented place cards look nice, are more visible and easier for guests to pick up. 

 

Flat business card-like place cards are also an option. These can be creatively designed to incorporate a theme, or placed in holders to make them easier for guests to see.

Not sure if you want to have assigned seating? Definitely think about it! This great article from weddingchannel.com explains that planning the seating arrangement ahead of time greatly reduces the stress and anxiety your guests may face in having to choose his or her own seat. There is a good chance, especially with a larger guest list, that there are a few feuding relatives who do not want to see each other, couples who deperately want to sit together, or guests who do not know anyone except the bride and groom and have no idea where to take a seat!

Once you have decided on how you want your tables arranged and who will be where, designing the place cards is a good way to direct your guests to the proper location. You may choose to number your tables, or if you have a theme, you may want to get creative and name your tables. Many people with have the cards organized alphabetically by last name as guests enter the reception. Guests find their name card, with the table designation also printed on it, and then seat themselves at the appropriate table.

Consider a simple frame to hold your wedding name cards.

 

Stands like these are also great options for the name cards and table numbers.

For a more formal event, consider using escort cards in addition to the name cards. Have an envelope with your guest's name printed on the outside and have the table printed on a card inside of the envelope. Once guests arrive at their table, they will find their individual place card at their designated seat.

Love this unique idea for a place card at the table! Also a great way to work in a theme.

A seating chart may work better for your event than a table full of place cards. We have seen many creative ideas, such as writing guest names and table numbers on an ornate mirror, or designing artistic posters. Once guests spot their names and find their tables, name cards can again be used to designate a specific seat at that table.

 

 

Your name cards can also be used for unique favors for your guests!

 

Think about using candy as your name card holder. Guests can find their seat, and enjoy a small treat!

Try using an object that guests can take home with them as a personalized momento from your wedding.



New Banner for The Center

Our Opening Day Banner was such a hit, we decided to celebrate the start of the Bengals' season in a similar fashion! Check out the new banner on the outside of The Center.

The Center is located at 115 East Fifth Street, Cincinnati, Ohio 45202 - within a block of Fountain Square, convenient to nearby parking and hotels!

M is for Makeup

Picture from chicfashionblog.com

Pre-Wedding Considerations:

1. Do you want to hire a professional makeup artist, or do you want to do it yourself?
     For tips on how to hire a wedding makeup artist: CLICK HERE.

2. If you are prone to breakouts, you may want to schedule an appointment with your dermatologist three to four months prior to the wedding.

3. Schedule your facial at least two weeks before the wedding, if you would like to have that done.

4. Have your eyebrows done five to seven days before the wedding - definitely be sure to avoid plucking your eyebrows the day of!

5. Schedule a pre-wedding consultation three to five weeks before the wedding. Following the same principle we applied to your wedding hair, (CLICK HERE to see the post) practice makes perfect! Whether you hire a professional or do it yourself, it is a good idea to schedule time to meet with the makeup artist or go on your own to a cosmetic store. Buy your products and begin practicing approximately three months in advance. Invest in quality products - you want the look to last!

6. Keep your complexion in mind as you choose your shades of makeup. Also, take into consideration the time of year and your wedding colors and theme. Make sure that you are comfortable with the makeup. You want to look your best, but you don't want to look like a different person. For tips on choosing your makeup colors: CLICK HERE.

7. Staying hydrated is important for a healthy, radiant look. Drink plenty of water leading up to your wedding!

Picture from Weddingbee.com

Wedding Day Considerations:

1. Start with a clean face!
2. Wear a button down shirt so that you don't mess up your makeup as you change into your dress. You may also want to cover your face with a towel to avoid getting makeup on the dress.
3. If you'll be outdoors for the wedding - apply sunscreen first!
4. If your worst nightmare becomes a reality and you wake up with a blemish...
     Step 1 - Don't panic!
     Step 2 - Apply a drop of visene to reduce the redness.
     Step 3 - Use a concealer to cover the spot.
     Step 4 - Apply foundation. Crisis averted. Continue living the day you dreamed!
5. Have some powder nearby in case you need to do any touch ups throughout the day.



Makeup Tips:

Apply a primer before adding your foundation to extend the length of time your makeup will last.

Foundation:
     Use a creamy foundation for dry to normal skin. For oily skin, use a powder foundation.
     Concealer is also an option. It helps to cover any spots or redness and there are more available color options to help you match your skin tone. To make your concealer last longer, mix it with a drop of foundation before applying to your face.
     Blot the foundation after application in order to remove any excess oil. Follow with lightweight, oil free powder for a long-lasting effect.

Eyes:
     It's your wedding day - don't hesitate to shine! Use shimmer eyeshadow to brighten your eyes. Pale gold or silver tones are perfect for achieving this look.
     An eyelid primer will make your eyeshadow last longer.
     Adding white shadow to your brow bone, directly underneath your eyebrow, and in the inside corners will highlight your eyes.
     Be sure to use waterproof mascara!

Cheeks:
     Use a brush that is the same size as the apple of your cheek to add a light peach or pink blush to highlight the cheekbones.

Lips:
     If your lips are cracked, a layer of foundation will help fill them in.
     For the lips, first apply a lip base or chapstick.
     Use a light to medium lipstick (or a darker shade if you're comfortable with that).
     Finish off the look with a lip gloss for an extra shine.



For mistakes to avoid: CLICK HERE

For these tips, videos and more, visit these sites: Knot for Life, Makeup and Beauty Blog and Ezine.

L is for License

The Marriage License: Licensed to Wed

Bride and Groom Planner suggests that the marriage license be obtained two to three weeks before the wedding date.

The requirements and process for applying for a marriage license vary by State. It is important to research the process in the area in which you plan to marry, so that you are aware of all potential fees and what documentation you may need to bring with you.

The Hamilton County Probate Court handles marriage license applications for Hamilton County, Ohio residents who plan to marry in Ohio, as well as out of state residents who wish to get married in Hamilton County. For more details, CLICK HERE. In Hamilton County, both the bride and groom must be present during the application process and the couple must be married within 60 days of receiving the license. For more information on fees and necessary items, CLICK HERE.

It is also important to note the requirements concerning who may legally perform a marriage ceremony:

     "Not just anyone can perform a marriage ceremony in the state of Ohio. Marriages are to be performed by an ordained minister of any religious society or congregation within the state licensed to perform marriages; the Probate Court Judge or any other judge appointed as a probate judge; a Judge of a Municipal Court; the mayor of a municipal corporation in any county in which such municipal corporation wholly or partly lies, the superintendent of the state school for the deaf; or any religious society, in conformity with the rules and regulations of its church." Hamilton County Probate Court

K is for Kiss

A newly married couple's first kiss is a staple of the Western wedding. Some view the kiss as fulfillment of the scripture, symbolizing an exchange of souls. The custom can also be traced back to contracts in ancient Rome, which were considered complete after an exchange of a kiss.

CLICK HERE for tips on how to pull off that perfect first kiss!

There are many people who enjoy clinking their glasses or ringing bells at the reception to signal the bride and groom to share a smooch. What may have been lost in this tradition is the ancient Christian belief that the noise scares the devil away, allowing the couple to kiss in his absence.

For those who do not enjoy the noisy tradition, check out these alternatives, like having your guests trade in their cutlery and glassware and sing you a song instead! CLICK HERE