Archives – July, 2009
Still Young + In Love after 60 Years!
Love is a temporary madness. It erupts like an earthquake and then subsides. And when it subsides, you have to make a decision. You have to work out whether your roots have become so entwined together that it is inconceivable that you should ever part. Because THIS is what LOVE IS. Love is not breathlessness; it is not excitement; it is not the promulgation of eternal passion. That is just being ”in love” which any of us can convince ourselves we are.
Love itself is what is left over when being “in love” has burned away, and this is both an art and a fortunate accident. Your mother and I had it. We had roots that grew towards each other underground, and when all the pretty blossoms had fallen from our branches… we found that we were ONE tree, not two. – Captain Corelli’s Mandolin
When people ask what excites me the most about my upcoming nuptials, my answer is simply this… “Sunday morning.” After hearing my response, it’s always fun to watch all their different reactions. The most frequent and obvious one is confusion. Some people simply don’t get it. Some will inevitably make inappropriate jokes or references; while others require immediate clarification.
Cutting their "Wedding Cake"
And yet, there are still a select few who get it right away. They know that what I’m looking forward to isn’t necessarily all the glam and magic that surrounds a wedding day. While it will also be incredibly fabulous, they know I’m most excited about all the days that will follow. They understand the excitement of being married, not just getting married. They share in the joy or being a wife (or husband) and signing “Mrs.” on birthday cards and grocery store receipts. They know that toasting to the “happiest day of your life” is silly… because every day after has potential to be even better.
Two of these people – who get it more than most – are my beautiful grandparents, Tom and Dottie Kennedy. This month, they celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary. That’s right, people, SIXTY years of loving, laughing, living and crying. Sixty years of sweet victories, bitter defeats and beautiful moments. They’ve shared more together than some people will ever get the chance to see on their own, and even when things got hard, they recognized how much harder it’d be if they weren’t holding hands through it.
Many years ago, I asked my grandpa how he and my grandma have been able to set such an example. To which he so easily replied, “Keep your love young, no matter how old you get. She (my grandma) will always be my sweetheart.” That has always stayed with me.
So, we decided to help keep their love young, and threw a party modeled after their wedding reception. It had it all: a buffet styled feast, cake cutting ceremony – fit with their very own monogram cake topper, flowers, boutonnieres and presents galore! It was amazing, and even though the celebration was for them, I couldn’t help but cheer a little for myself, rooting that my Mister and I could be so lucky! Thanks, Gramma and Pop for setting such an amazing example and cheers to the next 60 years!
And to all my readers out there, please share any anniversary stories, advice or funny memories below. I would love love love nothing more than learning from you! Also, feel free to check out our full line of Wedding Anniversary Accessories and make every year together an even more startling celebration!
July 31, 2009
Picture this. Travel back in time to 14th Century England… where kings are kings and old world ideals rein supreme. Every religious, political and governmental infrastructure is held accountable for a completely different set of rules. Rules, reflecting pre-Enlightened thinking and semi-barbaric irrationality, affect everything. They even affect a nervous bride, preparing to start anew with the man whom she loves is betrothed.
Put yourself in her shoes. (Feel free to make them glass slippers – You know I did :)) You’ve more than likely just recently grown out of your “awkward years,” and now, you’re uncomfortably marrying a man twice your senior, because he gave your father “a steal” on a couple prize-winning goats. You’re nervous. You’re uncertain, and even if you’re not ready, you’re getting married.
Then, imagine your shock and awe, as you run past a mob of wedding guests for the first time as Mrs. Claudius Cromwell III of Essex, while they pick, poke, pry, tear and tug at your dress! You heard me right, kids. Back then, “owning” a piece of the bride’s clothing was thought to bring luck to it’s possessor; so, people took it upon themselves to pilfer parts of the gown for their own accord. And ridiculous as this may seem to us now, it was the faint beginning of the bouquet and garter toss tradition we know and love today.
In order to keep her dress in tact, brides everywhere began giving up their garters as “replacement sacrifices.” Which in turn, were handed off to the grooms who gladly flung them towards all the single men in the audience. But what about the ladies (All the Single Ladies!)?
Not to be outdone, single women also wanted a chance at good luck or – in many cases today - love. Enter stage right: the bridal bouquet. Still considered a part of the bride’s attire, the bridal bouquet became the piece of good fortune tossed out to the women. Which only goes to show you, that some brutal beginnings can sometimes have the sweetest endings. And look out below for popular song choices and links:
Popular Songs for Bouquet Toss
- Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It) by Beyonce
- Girls Just Wanna Have Fun by Cyndi Lauper
- It’s Raining Men by the Weather Girls
- Man! I Feel Like A Woman! by Shania Twain
- Hit Me With Your Best Shot by Pat Benatar
- Wishin’ And Hopin’ by Dusty Springfield
- Hollaback Girl by Gwen Stefani
- This One’s For The Girls by Martina McBride
- Addicted To Love by Robert Palmer
- Lady Marmalade by Christina Aguilera. Lil’ Kim, Mya and Pink
Popular Songs for Garter Toss
- Another One Bites The Dust by Queen
- Let’s Get It On by Marvin Gaye
- Legs by ZZ Top
- Pour Some Sugar On Me by Def Leppard
- I’m Too Sexy by Right Said Fred
- Foxey Lady by Jimi Hendrix
- Sexyback by Justin Timberlake
- Oh Yeah by Yello
- You Can Leave Your Hat On by Joe Cocker
- Theme From Mission Impossible by Adam Clayton and Larry Mullen
And feel free to check out our incredible line of Wedding Garters, each equipped with a free tossing garter, to ensure a perfect wedding day toss and treasure!
July 29, 2009
With everyone going green these days, it was only a matter of time before weddings would catch the earth friendly fever. And why not?? We’re all raised under the respectful manner to “love our mothers;” so, why should Mother Nature be any different?
One area – to really show your “Mother” loving ability – is found within the confinds of the biggest expense in your wedding budget: the reception. While some couples are opting to budget crunch out favors for the guests, others are simply choosing to keep costs minimal.
Both smart and stylish, eco-friendly favors are the latest and greatest gifts to hit the wedding market. When deciding which favor will be friendliest, keep three R’s in mind: Reduce, Recycle and Reuse, and incorporate them accordingly. Below are some ideas on how to keep Mother Nature pleased during your planning:
- Trees, Please: Who says Arbor Day is the only day to hug a tree and save a life? Planting trees throughout the year is a great way to honor your guests, while making an everlasting impression of your love for the environment… think of them as symbolic saplings, if you will. As the years progress, trees become greater in size and rooted in strength – just as you and your Mister will! (Awwww!)
- Potted Centerpieces: Perfect for all the do-it-yourself brides out there, these powerful potted plants serve a dual, ovation worthy purpose. Not only do they make fabulous, eye-catching centerpieces during your big day, but you can invite your guests to take them home and replant them their gardens. AND, if you stick to perennial flowers, your guests will delight in seeing them come back year after year :)
- Dandy Donations: It truly is in giving that we receive, which is why making a donation to your favorite charity in honor of your guests is an ideal way to help out Mother Nature, while helping others. A perfect example of a gift that keeps on giving, donations – no matter how big or small – help make a difference! Not to mention, with the ease of a donations, there will be no excess wrapping paper or trash! Now, that’s a “hooray” I can really get behind!
- Shop Locally: Consider reducing your carbon footprint by shopping close to home. Driving long distances or having things shipped separately or from long distances can only add to the problem; so, be a part of the solution, instead, by looking online for the best deals in your area and taking advantage.
In the end, every little bit counts; so, why not do the eco-chic thing and be a bride who goes green? And feel free to check out our line of Eco-Friendly Wedding Favors and give the earth a hug today!
July 27, 2009
Talk about taking it to the next level: this morning, on The Today Show, Matt Lauer and Meredith Vieira featured a couple who completely rocked it out on their wedding day. Unimpressed? Well, what if I told you all the “rockin’ out” took place while walking down the aisle?
You heard me correct, kids. Jill and Kevin Kheinz, along with their entire bridal party, two stepped, sashayed, aswirly twirlied, etc. all the way to the altar. Typically a time for Cannon in D, Ode to Joy and held back tears, the beginning of most wedding ceremonies leans more towards solemn solace, not funky freshness. This couple, however, said “Pppppffffffttt” to that and “Heck Yes!” to cuttin’ a rug – or, in this case, cuttin’ a runner.
And while I’m sure great grandmothers and old school religious leaders everywhere may be falling out of their chairs in shock, I can’t help but stand up from mine and break it down – Mary K style - right along with them!
On behalf of Marilyn’s Keepsakes and groove thang shakers everywhere, we offer a big congrats to Kevin and Jill… for getting married… having fun… and being completely, totally and originally awesome! Cheers to your nuptials… you crazy kids, you :)
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4-94JhLEiN0]
What about all you other brides and grooms to be?? Would you ever bust loose during your ceremony?
July 24, 2009
Now, I’m not one to brag – wait, yes I am, hehe - but our new line of Wedding Dance Floor Decals is just about the most fabulous thing since sliced bread! Brand new to the market and already a hit with brides everywhere, these customizable creations have heads turning and feet tapping.
Because each one is exclusively designed for every bride and groom individually, these floor medallions are as unique as the love they represent… making them a swoon worthy addition to any wedding day celebration. Picture it with me, won’t you:
The reception doors swing open, almost magically, unveiling months of planning and hours of hard work. The guests begin to leisurely meander toward their seats, but wait… what is this?? Hesitation ensues as paths seem to be drawn uncontrollably to the dance the floor. Symphonic “oohs” and “ahhs” begin to echo through the hall as if part of a well rehearsed play. The crowd is awestruck, and alas, in the center of all the excitment, there it lies… your very own, very colorful, very chic… Personalized Dance Floor Decal.
Dramatic? Perhaps. But there is no denying the creativity and originality these bad boys have to offer. Available in 6 Designs, 10 Colors and 2 Sizes, there is a floor decal with your name written all over it… for real! Haha – I’m hilarious today!
And if you shop now, we’ll gladly take $25 off orders over $100 or $50 off orders over $200. Use Promo Code MK25 or MK50 and experience how big savings and great products make for guilt free shopping!
July 22, 2009
After the ceremony is complete, many brides opt to let their hair down… literally. The “I do’s” are done and the celebration can begin, which is why so many ”Mrs.”es opt to alter their overall look before entering the reception arena.
Perhaps they bustle their dress. Or maybe they put on their dancin’ shoes. I’ve even seen some brides pull an Oscar worthy performance and change wardrobes altogether – ultimate diva move, if you ask me :) But regardless of what is (or isn’t) in your bridal budget, a great number of brides will show up to their reception looking slightly different than they did just minutes before, even if their only change is that “new wife glow.”
More often than not, however, a great number of brides will take off their veil and replace it with something a little more maintainable, and one accessory that deserves some serious snaps are vintage hair clips. These tiny treasures had me doing a double take when I saw them highlighted at a local bridal fair. Not only did they look absolutely stunning, but they truly have a luster, fit with old world charm and timeless twinkle.
From simple and chic to bold and daring, these era inspired gems come in a wide array of designs, making it easy to fit every bride’s style, taste and look. Feel free to get inspired by online stores such as HairBoutique.com or SmartBrideOnline.com. And if inspiration strikes you and you find yourself to be a bit of a crafter, take these ideas to your local crafts store and make one of your own! It’s a perfect DIY, money saving project!
July 20, 2009
If you haven’t had the distinct pleasure – of course, I’m using the word “pleasure” after it’s been dipped in a huge vat of sarcasm – to be present at a wedding reception when a wedding toast slowly crashed and burned into a pit of agonizing distress… consider yourself lucky. For when a speech, backed by several amps, goes awry, the awkward silence that follows can be deafening.
So, it is important to keep a few things in mind when raising your glass. Below are some helpful tips to ensure your wedding toast will take the cake:
- Above everything, a toast master needs to be mindful of the occasion and the audience. This is not Spring Break 2K7; this is Wedding Day 2K9. A person can still be witty without being over the top. If you remember only one rule, remember what Ms. Franklin has been belting out since 1967 - R.E.S.P.E.C.T!!!
- Avoid the use of overly offensive and profane language. Great-grandma Faye and baby cousin Olivia do not need to be a part of a sailor’s rant. Sexual, racial, political and religious jokes will probably always fall under this category. The basic rule of thumb: if you have to question whether or not something may or may not be appropriate, it probably isn’t. So, go ahead and use something else.
- For the most part, past marriages, relationships and deaths in the family should evade any wedding toasts at all costs. These are topics that generally make people uncomfortable and sad, and the occasion should be kept light hearted and celebratory.
- *Please note, all of the above are generally exploited when the following rule isn’t put into play: DO NOT drink too much. If you are under the influence of too much alcohol, while equipped with a mic, the results can be catastrophic. And no one wants to wake up the next day and be considered “that” guy/girl.
- Always stand when giving a speech and refrain from fidgeting as much as possible. Even though the majority of the population has some level of stage fright, counteracting this fear with nervous ticks only makes matters worse. If you stand still, tall and confident, no one will pay any mind to the fact that your insides are shaking.
- Never chew gum. Not only can it be seen as rude, but it might also hinder the clarity and pronunciation of your speech.
- Try not to overuse inside jokes. Because while they may be hilarious to those on the inside, the majority of the audience is on the outside, and you will lose their attention.
- Finally, keep your speech short, sweet and to the point. The natives tend to get restless if the music is cut off for too long, and no one - especially the bride and groom – wants too long of a lull in the middle of a celebration.
If you follow these guidelines and speak from the heart, you are guaranteed to deliver a speech that will surely make a fabulous impression. And if you find yourself stuck on how to begin, try starting with a quote about Love or Marriage. Thinkexist.com has a directory full of famous quotations, which are easily categorized by topic, author and keywords.
And for all the finest toasting ware has to offer, check out our line of champagne flutes and make sure to raise your glass in style!
July 17, 2009
With all the expenses that go into putting a wedding together, so many Future Mr. / Mrs. Wonderfuls look for ways to cut back without cutting out. It revolves around the baser instinct to have our cake and eat it too. After all, what good is cake, if you can’t eat it?
Following the budget crutching trend, many brides and grooms have even allowed their guests to be their photographers. By arming each reception table with throwaway cameras, or “disposable glam cams” as I like to call them, guests takes turns sifting through the crowd and capturing moments. But what if a couple wants more?
I recently received an email from a friend out in Santa Monica, CA – big shout out to Katie Flowers!! – who found an incredible (and terribly inexpensive) way to document your wedding day on film without the hassle (and cost) of hiring of a professional videographer. Simply by purchasing a Flip Camera, newlyweds have the ability to capture, create, edit and share their very own wedding videos. And because the mini camcorders can cost as low as $149.99, you even have the choice to purchase more than one to ensure better footage and greater options.
It really is a fun and interactive way to involve your guests and truly make them feel like a part of your day. Below is an example how your guests will turn you into movie stars…
July 15, 2009
Please tell me I’m not the only one who obsesses over celebrity style? (pauses for a brief moment) I knew it!!
If you’re a bride who finds herself going gaga over celebrity wedding news, fashion and gossip, rest assured that you are not alone. In fact, my level of excitement on this subject matter is borderline embarrassing, but I simply can’t tear myself away from these famous fashionistas. I suppose it’s their sense of “unattainable” and my sense of ”need to know” that peaks my curiosity, but regardless, there is something to be said of celebrity style… especially when it comes to weddings.
I even delight in famous, fictional weddings. I mean, come on, who didn’t tear up during Season 2 of Sex ‘n’ the City when Carrie read this poem??
His hello was the end of her endings / Her laugh was their first step down the aisle / His hand would be hers to hold forever / His forever was as simple as her smile / He said she was what was missing / She said instantly she knew / She was a question to be answered / And his answer was “I do”
Seriously, <tear> I guess it’s just the hope-FULL romantic in every girl to have a fairy tale ending, and because celebrities have the ability to act one out – whether it’s through movies or real life – part of us gets caught up in it. Here’s a look at some of my fave celeb-butante brides through the years, and even if their marriages didn’t last, their style will live on forever…
July 13, 2009
WARNING: The following post may contain images not suitable for brides looking to trim down and tone up. If your will power level is low today, I suggest you turn back now.
In all seriousness though, I’d be lying if I said my mouth didn’t go into operation water overload while viewing picture after picture of these delectable wedding day treats. I blame Martha Stewart Weddings mostly. In their most recent summer issue, there is an article appropriately titled, “Let them eat Cupcakes,” which reveals how these extra ooey gooey delights can make a divine substitute for a wedding day favorite.
While cake is the traditional standby most newlyweds (and all their guests) look forward to devouring, cupcakes are proving to be just as tasty and beautiful as their more popular counterparts. They can be dipped, dolloped, shellacked, sprinkled and stacked any way a bride sees fit. Whether you’re going for over the top or under the radar, cupcakes can give an ahhh to the mazing presentation at any wedding reception celebration. The proof is in the pudding, people!
Since each cupcake is its own individual part, a bride isn’t limited by flavor or design. You can easily provide a smorgasbord of vanilla, chocolate, caramel swirl, strawberry surprise and every taste in between without worry. It’s really up to you. I’ve seen everything from cupcake towers that could humble even the most ornate cakes to customized creations that are as simple as they are sweet.
Already cut and all ready to serve, wedding cupcakes also make a great do-it-yourself project for the more hands on bride. Not to mention, a their “awwwww” factor is off the charts! I mean, who doesn’t love a mini version of anything? And although they may be miniature in size, they are still powerful in taste, making these one-of-kind mini cakes a catchy trend in 2009.
For more tips and tricks on wedding cake alternatives, feel free to check out Martha Stewart Weddings or logon to Cupcake Recipes and start baking today!
July 10, 2009
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