Urban Chic - a recount of Weddings in Woodinville from Simply by Tamara Weddings & Events

Our inspiration for "Urban Chic" at Hollywood Schoolhouse was pulling from the organic minimalist decor you see all over Pinterest and the interior design magazines right now.  We wanted to also embrace the new "copper" trend, as it pairs so well with white and greenery.  I also wanted to add a little "luxe" feel with black and white and rich textures to add that black tie feel.  I love pulling inspiration from interior design, to showcase something you don't see everywhere in weddings.

As guests entered Hollywood Schoolhouse, they walked under the classy double draping (by Grand Event Rentals) with a geometric lucite escort card display, sprinkled with orchids by From the Ground Up Floral.  The escort cards had gold calligraphy, done by Songbird Paperie.  A unique spin on how to showcase your escort cards at your wedding.

Guests were then enticed with various gourmet cheeses from Hollywood Schoolhouse, as well as fresh oysters! Oyster bars at a wedding is a great way to showcase the Northwest, and adds some class.

Programs in copper print by Impress Ink Design were placed on a lucite/copper tray for guests to grab as they entered the reception area.  We showcased a main head table, with two family style tables with different design elements on either side to create a U shape.

The head table, on one of Seattle Farm Table's newest additions, the "Live Edge" tables, was a show stopper with a copper installation (built and designed by From the Ground Up Floral) above it, dripping with greenery, copper Edison Bulbs from Green Light Event Design, as well as seating cards hanging above the place settings, and the hanging table number.  I loved using the Milano chairs from Pedersen's, which helped create our minimalist vibe here with all of the white.  We had so much fun adding in geometric shapes in various elements, as in the lucite copper foil menus, using copper geometric sheets on one of the tables as a runner, as well as fun shaped seating cards by Impress Ink Designs. I loved using copper chargers, something different, as well as copper utensils on the main table, and of course Moscow Mules were a must.  One one of the tables, Fran's chocolate boxed favors were wrapped around vases and used as decor on one table, something fun and unique!

Gina with From the Ground Up Floral knocked my vision out of the park with gorgeous flowers, including protea in a few places, as well as lovely greenery everywhere. My favorite design element was the installation above the head table, SO fun! The unique centerpieces along the head table was so unique, with copper wire holding tubes with buds along the length of the table.  Also some other favorites were the copper hoop with hanging greenery above the dessert table, as well as her modern spin on the stunning cascading bouquet.

Grand Event Rentals provided all of the draping, table top rentals, glassware, and the fun linens.  There is something so classy about adding double draping to break up as well as soften a space.  And I am all about textures, which we saw in the linens- some texture, some sparkle.

As guests then continued into the ceremony space, they had some delicious cold press coffee, and enjoyed some gourmet samples by Stone Layne Baked Specialties.  Another favorite element here included a collaboration with Fran's Chocolates for Elizabeth's petite fours.  I was so excited to find a modern designed wax seal on Etsy, and Elizabeth used melted Fran's Chocolates to make a chocolate seal and placed atop the treats.  SO fun! Her cakes were stunning, using modern proportions and designs.  One had a mother-of-pearl luster to it that I just loved, with copper accents.  I am all about a cake table with various yet coordinating designs. Tying it together was a fun textured linen.

Integral DJ's kept the vibe downstairs current and trendy with some great tunes! Solid, as always.

For the ceremony set up, From the Ground Up Floral made her own ivy covered "trees" with copper bases.  The ghost chairs from Pedersen's Event Rentals were in a "V" formation for the ceremony, keeping with the modern vibe.  The ceremony backdrop carried the geometric/modern vibe into the ceremony, and we softened it up with hanging greenery and uplighting 

Then upstairs! As guests walked upstairs, they were transported back in time to a soft vintage vibe with live music. The decor carried the same colors with whites, copper and greenery, adding one of the Pantone colors for 2016, Rose Quartz.  Guests enjoyed great wine from Market Vineyards as well as  chocolate and champagne/port pairings by Fran's Chocolates as they tried on the lovely jewelry from Sholdt Designs. Trillium Tailor showcased their sharp tailored suits.  Then guests were treated to some ice cream sandwiches (yum!) from Smoosh. Vintage Ambiance provided a fun wood bar cart for the chocolate and champagne/port pairings, as well as some of the copper and rose quartz decor/glasses.

Our models were dolled up by Yessie Libby Makeup Artistry, and wore Sarah Seven gowns from The Dress Theory.  Of course the talented Photographer Blue Rose Photography, and skilled Videographer Denver Nathan Studios documented all of the fun!

We had so much fun transforming Hollywood Schoolhouse, and showcasing the versatility of this historic site. 

Cheers!
~Tamara Nicole

Partcipating vendors at The Hollywood Schoolhouse for Weddings in Woodinville 2016 included: Venue: The Hollywood Schoolhouse; Planner: Simply by Tamara Nicole; Photography: Blue Rose Photography; Transportation: Butler Seattle; Videographer: Denver Nathan Studio; Favors: Fran's Chocolates; Florals: From the Ground Up Floral; Rentals: Grand Event Rentals & Seattle Farm Tables; Paper & Invitations: Impress Ink; DJ: Integral DJ's; Wine: Market Vineyards; Jewelry: SHOLDT; Dessert: Smoosh; Cake & Desserts: Stone Layne Baked Specialties; Menswear: Trillium Custom Tailoring; Hair & Makeup: Yessie Libby.

Simply by Tamara Nicole Weddings & Events awarded Borrowed & Blue Best of 2016 awards

Tamara Nicole of Simply by Tamara Nicole Weddings & Events Congratulations to Tamara Nicole of Simply by Tamara Nicole Weddings & Events, our guest planner at The Hollywood Schoolhouse for the 2016 tour, on being awarded the Best of Borrowed & Blue Bronze award for "Best Wedding Planner" and as B&B's "Most Valueable Vendor"! 

"A Best of B&B award is like a Michelin star for weddings, identifying the most talented, respected vendors in all of Seattle. How do we know? Because the winners have been chosen by Seattle vendors themselves. It's the golden goose of planning insight: know-how taken from those in the know." - Borrowed & Blue

Tuscan Sunset – a recount of Weddings in Woodinville from Sweet Pea Events

~Tuscan Sunset – a recount of Weddings in Woodinville from Sweet Pea Events is a guest blog post from Emily Shannon, Sweet Pea Events~

We wanted to create a theme that emphasized Redhook Brewery’s natural aesthetics. The bold colors, beautiful lighting and wood accents came together and fueled the desire to create a Tuscan Sunset at Redhook Brewery. We wanted guests to feel as if they had stepped out of the Pacific Northwest into a party in Italy. Redhook served some Italian favorites such as bruschetta and pasta while toasting with beer and a signature Red Vespa cocktail. 

Juniper Flowers was key to bringing the vision to life. Green, red and orange centerpieces awakened the color scheme. The head table was the show-stopper of the design. It was draped in fabric and greenery with greens and golds across the table. Olive, bay and lemons were found throughout the room. Each place setting was complete with a sprig of rosemary. 

Water and Chalk provided place cards and signage. The signs incorporate Italian to really pull the Tuscan theme together. One of my favorite details was the dessert table sign. “L’amore e dolce” (which means love is sweet) was beautifully written on fabric. The desserts provided by Street Treats were delicious. They brought their specialty ice cream while also incorporating small delicious dessert bites. 

The music was provided by Bamboo Beats. Not only did they create the perfect Italian lounge playlist, but they fully participated in the theme with their fun DJ table. Wooden crates surrounded the table with buckets of stunning greenery.

The lighting provided by Crimson Haze really pulled everything together. They provided elegant uplights and spotlights on all the key areas. However, my favorite lighting aspect was the sunset affect in the brew house. 

Pedersen’s Event Rentals provided the vineyard chairs, rustic chargers, our green and gold linens, and other various rentals. Everything was beautifully captured by Laurel McConnell Photography. 

We had such a fantastic time planning every detail with our team of rock stars. Hope these pictures take you back to Italy! 

Cheers,
Sweet Pea Events

Our Team: Venue and Catering: Redhook Brewery | Florist: Juniper Flowers | DJ: Bamboo Beats | Stationery and Calligraphy: Water and Chalk | Lighting: Crimson Haze | Photographer: Laurel McConnell | Videographer: First and Foremost Productions | Popcorn Bar: Sweet Buffet Lady | Rentals: Pedersens | Head table linen: BBJ Linens | Bachelor Parties: Adventura & Butler Wine Tours | Bakery: Street Treats| Hair and Makeup Artist: Sarah Ren Makeup Artistry & Hair | Ceremony Venue: Woodinville Lavender | Transportation: Butler Transportation | Photobooth: 1000 Words Events

Sip & Salsa at The Woodhouse Wine Estates

Enjoy moving, shaking and feeling the flavors of salsa music, while sipping on a glass of wine during Sip & Salsa at The Woodhouse Wine Estates, March 24, 2016!  World Champions Rico Jr. & Tatiana Gomez will do an energizing salsa dancing demo to set the mood before instruction.

This event is open to singles and couples (each person must register separately) and includes instruction and first glass of wine. Guests receive a 10% discount on bottle purchases the night of the event. Cheese plates are available for purchase.

Guests will enjoy moving around, shaking it and feeling all the flavors of salsa music, while learning fun, quick and easy fundamental steps of salsa dancing! No experience needed! Wear comfortable clothing and shoes you can move in.

For more details and to purchase tickets, click HERE.

The 6 People You Don't Want to Be at a Wedding|Wedding Guest Etiquette

~The 6 People You Don't Want to Be at a Wedding|Wedding Guest Etiquette is a guest blog post from New Creations Weddings ~

The rules of guest wedding etiquette have undoubtedly evolved over the generations. Some rules have been tweaked and others have been completely thrown out of the window. However, there are still several that are not up for debate. Frustratingly, we continue to see many of these unmannerly moves over and over again and we think it’s time for a lesson in proper decorum. If you will be attending a wedding this Summer, listen up!

To be a model wedding guest, DON’T be these 6 people:

Photo by Tony Asgari Photography

1. Don't be the Non-RSVPer

If you don’t RSVP, there is a chance there won't be a seat or a meal for you. Just showing up can make things awkward for everyone. The couple has most likely made it very easy for you to respond via response card including addressed envelope and postage. Alternatively, they may have created a customized email address for collecting RSVPs. It is important to respond the way the Bride & Groom have requested. It's possible they have someone else collecting RSVPs for them and that person shouldn’t have to hunt down your RSVP across all mediums. 

REMINDER: mention any dietary restrictions at the time of RSVP. Every catering company that we have worked with is happy to accommodate you as long as they have the advanced notice. They will not be very happy if you bring up your gluten allergy as dinner is being served. 

Photo by Affinity Photography

2. Don’t be the guest that shows up with a +1 or children that were not specifically invited

If the Bride & Groom have allotted you a +1, the invitation will be addressed to you and your guest’s name or to you “and guest”. Don’t just assume that you are allowed to bring a +1 and don’t ask the couple if it is okay to bring someone after you have received an invitation. Deciding on the guest list can be one of the most difficult tasks during the wedding planning process. The couple may have had to cut out family members or friends and there's a chance there were tears over it so know that their decision was deliberate. 

When it comes to kids at weddings, preferences are across the board. As a general rule, the invitation will be addressed to the entire family if it is okay to bring your children. If your whole family is not invited or the invitation requests no kids, respect that. Your children are not the exception despite how cute and well behaved they may be. Call up Grandma or a babysitter and treat the wedding as a date night!

Photo from Pinterest

3. Don’t be Mr. or Ms. Too Casual

You know the old saying, “It is better to be overdressed, than under-dressed.”? Well, it’s still true. Be sure to pay attention to to the invitation. Attire is typically stated there. Please don’t wear whatever you feel like wearing. This is the Bride & Groom’s day, not yours. Use this an excuse to get dressed up! Below are some easy-to-follow guidelines.

Black Tie: Gentlemen, you will be going in a black tuxedo and ladies, a long-mid length gown for you

Formal: A suit for the gentlemen. We recommend a long-mid length gown, your classiest cocktail dress or dressy separates for the ladies

Semi-formal: Gentlemen, this is where you can play around with it a little bit. Wear a suit but feel free to rock it without a tie or without the jacket. Ladies, think Sunday best or cocktail attire. Cocktail attire does not mean club wear! Be mindful of the fit, length of skirt, the neckline, etc. (See photo above.)

Casual: For the love of all that is Holy, put the jeans back in your closet. We don’t care who’s wedding you are going to, whether it is at a beach or in a backyard--gentlemen, put on some khakis or linen pants. They are equally as, if not more, comfortable than jeans. Pair with a polo or casual button down. Ladies, just keep it classy!

Photo by Angela & Evan Photography

4. Don’t be the Late-comer

There is a common misconception that weddings always start late. (Obviously these people have never been to one of our weddings.) Always try to arrive 10 minutes earlier than the invite time. Again, this is the couple’s day, not yours. If the ceremony does happen to start a few minutes late (because things do happen) and you have to wait on them, fine but they should never have to wait on you! If you do show up after the ceremony has begun, wait until the processional is over and quietly sneak up a side aisle. 

Something to note--unless the invitation specifically states that you were only invited to the reception, you were invited to both so you should attend both! This is a special day for the couple and they invited you because they want to share it with you. Despite what you may think, they WILL notice your absence. 

Photo by Crozier Photography

5. Don’t Play the Amateur Photographer

Some couples do encourage photos with special hashtags, etc. but if you are not sure whether you should have your phone out or not, err on the side of caution--turn it off and live in the moment. If you do decide to snap a few shots, do so discretely. Please, NO IPADS and do not lean into the aisle or stand up to take a picture. We know you have the best intentions but the Bride & Groom probably spent a small fortune to hire a professional photographer. Don’t give the photographer the tedious task of photo-shopping out you or your giant tablet.

Photo by Tony Asgari Photography

6. Don’t be the 1st one to the dessert dar

There has been a surge in the popularity of dessert bars over the past few years so I know this one can be a little confusing but the same old rule applies. The dessert bar does not open until the Bride & Groom have cut the cake. The couple doesn’t want to take photos in front of a half picked through table. Quite often, this is the first time they will be seeing the dessert bar and/or cake that day. Some couples will opt to do a separate cake and dessert table and will allow guest to eat dessert first but wait for an announcement or an okay from the catering staff before you dig in. If you are not sure, wait!

Bottom line--don’t be a jerk (consciously or unconsciously), follow these guidelines and most importantly have fun celebrating. 

If you are a Bride or Groom that needs assistance planning your big day and hosting your, now perfectly polite, guests contact New Creations for a free consultation today!

Cheers and happy planning!