We're about to ring in a new year - where oh, where has the time gone?
2009 was a fantastic year for
The Bride's Butler.
We had our first 'official' wedding as a certified, registered company, and executed 4 weddings in the year. Great start for a part-time business, I'd say. We also did some advertising like being an exhibitor at the March Welcome Wagon Bridal Showcase, and by participating in word of mouth gatherings like Rona's Ladie's Night and a Hamilton Business Network meeting. This past year, The Bride's Butler created a Facebook group, which is currently being transformed into a Facebook Fan Page which is a better format for our type of business. Please become a fan if you aren't one already!
So, while looking back at our achievements this year, it got me thinking about some of my favourite Wedding & Event trends, ideas and inspirations from 2009. Below are some of my favourites from the past year.
I just love this website! It's pretty much like an online flea market for all things homemade and vintage. Search for specific items, or simply pick a category like 'weddings' and see items like veils, cake stands, jewellery, invitations and more all available for purchase. If you like the DIY look, but aren't all that crafty, ETSY is definitely the way to go to save time and money.
#2 - Flowers & Fascinators
Most brides are wearing their hair in a more natural style for weddings, so to add a touch of personality and class, many are adding flowers or fascinators. Fascinators are typically flowers with beads, crystals, tulle, and feathers. Sometimes they can have a small headpiece with a veil. Simple, elegant and beautiful.
#3 - Eco Friendly Chic
Everyone should try to make as many elements of their special event green; like using recycled paper for your stationary and paper goods, or creating menu items with food from local suppliers and giving eco friendly favours. My favourite favours for guests are either ones they can eat with little packaging, donations to charities, or plant/tree seeds and bulbs.
#4 - Bird Themes
Bird themes for weddings and special events (like Baby & Bridal Showers) this year seemed to have taken flight. Peacocks, doves, sparrows and owls have popped up in many event details like; stationary, napkins, favours, decor items and even in attire pieces - like garters, ties and fascinators.
#5 - Colourful Shoes
Dress up any outfit with a pair of colourful coordinating shoes. Add a splash of colour to that little black dress with a pair of pink, yellow or even animal print heels! Many brides will wear shoes that are their favourite colour, or that matches their bridesmaid dresses for that extra added style and personality.
Those are just some of my favourite trends, ideas & inspirations from 2009.
I have plenty more, but one more that comes to mind, and will always be a favourite for each and every year are - Proposals!
I love hearing how someone proposed, where they popped the question and how they told their family and friends the fantastic news. The Bride's Butler personally congratulates Jenn & Brett, Nikki & Mark, Christine & Chris and Kayla & Kyle on their 09 engagements.
Let's celebrate 2009 on New Years with happy memories of the past year, and with hopeful ambitions for the year ahead.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
BB Tip #7 - January is "Bridal" season. There are plenty of Bridal Shows to attend. You can find a listing at www.ontariobride.com. Wear comfy shoes, bring a reusable bag for all of the info you will gather and take labels with your name, address, phone number and wedding date for all of the contest ballots.
Remember, if you're feeling overwhelmed after meeting tons, and we mean tons of vendors, call us and we'd be happy to meet with you for a consultation meeting.
Pictures from: blog.weddingpaperdivas.com, blissweddingmarket.com, birdcageveils.com & etsy.com
