My Kate Parker Wedding

my Kate Parker Wedding Blog Moves!

2009-12-10T12:17:00.005-05:00

Don't forget that the my Kate Parker Wedding blog has moved to Wordpress! Be sure to check it out at www.mykateparkerwedding.com.

Also, check out some of the latest posts:

Connecticut, Massachusetts, Rhode Island Guest Experience - PhotoBooth Planet in today's Spotlight

Wedding Expert Advice on my Kate Parker Wedding

Massachusetts Wedding Planner, Bernadette Smith of 14 Stories, share with us a real wedding

Massachusetts and Rhode Island Wedding Planner: Esq. Events

New England and NYC-Westchester County Wedding Garter Design Company: Custom Wedding Garters

Expert Advice from gay wedding planner, Bernadette Smith of 14 Stories

Industry Icon myKPW Family Members

my Kate Parker Wedding Blog Moves!

2009-11-18T15:01:00.005-05:00

We recently made a little change with the my Kate Parker Wedding blog -- it's now hosted by Wordpress! Check it out at www.mykateparkerwedding.com

Be sure to check out all of our recently added posts:

Industry Icon: David Beahm Design

A Heartfelt Wedding Story

Wedding Advice from Meagan Gilpatrick of Maine Seasons Events

New Hampshire Venue: Castle in the Clouds

Connecticut and Vermont Makeup Artist: d.d. Nickel of d.d. Nickel Makeup Studio

Massachusetts Wedding Planner: Bernadette Smith of 14 Stories

New Hampshire Floral Designer: Lotus Floral Designs

Connecticut Paper Products: Custom Ceramics by Traci

Maine Caterer: Churchill Catered Events

Industry Icon: Sylvia Weinstock

Vermont Wedding Photographer: Orchard Cove Photography

2009-11-12T11:11:00.011-05:00

Amanda Herzberger from Orchard Cove Photography based out of Windsor, Connecticut, recently visited Vermont for wedding. And while we love rustic weddings, we just had to show off her incredible work. ~LS

The couple's wedding took place at Riverside Farm in Pittsfield, Vermont.

Covered bridges, with it's nostalgic and historical appeal, make for an unforgettable moment.

The bride and groom's autumn-inspired bouquet and boutonniere were designed by Pittsfield Garden.

A school bus is always a fun (and cost-effective) way to transport guests to and from the ceremony and/or reception site.

We always recommend that brides ask their wedding photographer to capture details of their wedding since so much time goes into the day.

Speechless...

Orchard Cove Photography
Website: www.orchardcovephotography.com
Blog: www.orchardcovephotography.blogspot.com
my Kate Parker Wedding State and Budget: VT $80k+

Vermont Wedding Photographer Orchard Cove Photography is a member of my Kate Parker Wedding, your new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

Quote of the Day

2009-11-12T10:20:00.003-05:00

“Good family life is never an accident but always an achievement by those who share it.” ~ James H.S. Bossard

Massachusetts Wedding Planner: EFD Creative

2009-11-11T15:40:00.013-05:00

Edna Dratch-Parker is the owner of EFD Creative, a wedding design and event planning company based out of Massachusetts. EFD Creative can help you with all aspects of your wedding including Complete Event Planning, Theme Design and Consulting, Custom Invitation Designs, Vendor Selection and Coordination and Web Site Design and Development. Check out some information and images from Edna below . . . KM

Number of Years in Business: EFD Creative officially launched in February 2009. I’ve been planning events throughout my career—from my years as a fashion designer to more than 20 years as a graphic designer and marketer.

Preferred Locations: What I love about location is what it says about my clients. I recently did a wedding for a couple who is always outdoors - hiking, biking and just enjoying nature. Their wedding took place in the mountains in Vermont, which suited them perfectly, and inspired me in so many ways to combine the location with their personalities to create the touches and atmosphere that spoke to who they are as a couple. For me, the key aspect about location is how it serves as a backdrop to the main event — the wedding! — and its potential to showcase my clients.

Pricing Information: Because every event is unique, all pricing is determined per project. EFD Creative is available to meet for an initial free consultation.

What makes me stand out in what I do? I think what helps me stand out is my formal training as an artist and graphic designer. It is through the lens of a designer and years helping clients create the look and feel of their businesses that I approach my work as an event planner. More and more weddings are being branded in the same way, which I think is due to the growing popularity of design shows that highlight celebrity weddings, brides-to-be and other lifestyle events. People want to make a statement, and this is where I can make the most impact.

For me, it is important to understand who my clients are and what they want for their special day. From there I work to build an event that meets my clients’ hopes and dreams for their wedding day and brings artistry and an attention to detail that shines through from the first invitation to the final thank you card. Every client wants to make their “stamp” on the world as a new couple, and my goal is to help bring their vision to life. It’s such an exciting process, and the best reward is the thrill of the day when it all comes together!

What's the favorite part of my work? My favorite part of the job is the people. This is what event planning is about! I love working with the bride and watching her gain confidence in the process and the couple’s excitement when they see their vision become a reality! Weddings by their nature are a joyous occasion and I simply love being a part of this day. I also really enjoy the camaraderie of working with all the other vendors in the process. Everyone contributes their expertise to some aspect of the event – from the table linens to the flowers and photography. It is a grand mosaic that has to come together perfectly, and I love being the one to help guide every piece of the puzzle into place.

What do I like to do in my spare time? When I’m not running around for my business, I try to get outdoors to exercise and enjoy the fresh air! My husband has a motorcycle, so in the summer we love to take long rides, especially on Cape Cod. I also cherish my friendships and always try to squeeze in time to catch up with friends over shopping or dinner.

What charity am I supporting and why: There are three charities I support that are very important to me personally: the American Cancer Society, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International (JDRF) and the American Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Like many families, cancer has touched mine and I try to do what I can to support research efforts that will help find a cure. My husband developed diabetes as a juvenile, and since I met him I’ve learned so much about this disease and the great work that JDRF is doing. As for the ASPCA, I’ve had cats for nearly my entire adult life and think it’s important to support the ASPCA so that cats, dogs and other animals can find happy, loving homes.

Having golf carts is a great form of short distance transportation as they are typically quite affordable and easily accessible.

The flowers at this wedding were done by Lilac Floral in Massachusetts.

This beautiful cake was made by Delicious Desserts. Notice the recurring seashell theme throughout the next couple of pictures.

The silver seashell place card holders are adorable, I love the simplicity.

These Invitations were made by Edna herself and I think they came out beautifully . . . and the seashell makes another appearance.

A ballet wrap can be a beautiful addition your bouquet and a jeweled embellishment can really complete the design.

All Above Images by Kristin Spencer.

EFD Creative
Phone: 781.856.1981
Website: www.efdcreative-events.com
Email: info@efdcreative-events.com
myKPW State and Budget: MA $25k-$50k and $50k-$80K

Massachusetts wedding planner EFD Creative is a member of my Kate Parker Wedding, your new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

Shout out to Paige Hiller Photography

2009-11-11T11:05:00.013-05:00

Today we want to introduce you to my Kate Parker Wedding member Paige Hiller, an amazing photographer based out of Woodstock, VT. Paige is laid back and very easy to work with, yet so organized at the same time. Kate Parker worked with Paige on a wedding this past May where an unforeseen thunderstorm caused all the wedding day plans to change. Paige kept her cool the entire time and flexed with the changes in a completely professional way. Paige is fantastic and we are thrilled to have her in the my Kate Parker Wedding family. Check out some of Paige's photos below.

KM

I love the vibrant colors of this bride's wedding bouquet:

For fun non-traditional photo shoots, consider having your groom and groomsmen wear some fun colored socks instead of regular dress socks:

Paige Hiller Photography
Phone: 802.457.9203
Website: www.paigehillerphotography.com
Email: paige@paigehillerphotography.com

myKPW State and Budget:

- NH $50k-$80k
- VT $25k-$50k and $50k-$80k

New England wedding photographer Paige Hiller is a member of my Kate Parker Wedding, your new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

Shout out to Sarah Fantom Photography

2009-11-11T10:15:00.000-05:00

Sarah Fantom is a photographer based out of Chatham, MA. Take a look at her website to see more of her beautiful images! KM

Sarah Fantom Photography
Phone: 508.945.8900
Website: www.photographybysarah.com
Email: sarah@photographybysarah.com
myKPW State and Budget: MA $50-$80k and RI $50-$80k

Sarah Fantom Photography is a member of my Kate Parker Wedding, a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

"Trash the Dress" Photographer Series: Richard Esposito

2009-11-11T09:35:00.009-05:00

Just as many photographers have different takes on wedding day photography they also have differing views on the concept of "Trash the Dress". See what the concept of Trash the Dress means to Richard and check out some photos below! KM

How do you define the concept of Trash the Dress? What does it mean to you? What does it mean to the bride?
On the wedding day the bride is always so careful not to get her dress dirty. I find most of my clients don't know what to do with their dress after the wedding. They can preserve it, but I don't know many that do. Some of my clients put their dress on ebay or craigslist! But wait! Why not be photographed in the dress some more and have some fun with it? To me it means more "cool" photos that's thinking outside the box. To my clients, it means more "cool" photos that's thinking outside the box. We even do some non trash the dress photos just so they have more photos for their album.

How about the actual "trashing"? Is this getting down and dirty with paint or mud or is it just getting more into the moment, something you wouldn't attempt the day of your wedding?
It's a little of both. I've only had 1 client say to me "let's trash it". And we did with dirt and mud. Most people are opting for a "Mess the Dress" session where they want the cool photos, but still want to preserve the dress.

Why do you do it? Why do you think the bride does it?
I do it to take my mind out of the box. Some of the poses and ideas we come up with can translate to new ideas on the wedding day. Anytime you can take yourself out of the normal way of doing things, it helps fuel the creativity.

How do you approach the session? Do you provide the ideas or does the bride present her own ideas or in other words, what is your vision compared to the bride's vision?
What do you like to achieve during the session?
So far my brides have give me some ideas of what they want, then they ask me what ideas I have. We usually do both. My brides leave the vision up to me. I want to achieve creating an image that doesn't just say "you got your dress dirty." I want it to be a piece of art.

And we have the same questions for Boudoir...

How do you define the concept of Boudoir photos? What does it mean to you? What does it mean to the bride?
Some photographers go for sexy, steamy, or sensuous photos. You have to know where the line is and how far you can go before it's considered too much. I find most brides do them as a gift to their fiancé.

Why do you do it? Why do you think the bride does it?
We don't do them because we feel it doesn't fit our type of client. We don't want a prospective bride to be offended by images on our website, or have the idea that it's what we think about when we photograph them. I feel I have to think that because I am a male shooter. One of my clients asked if I did them and I told her I would be more than happy to, but that they would probably feel more comfortable having a female photographer do the shoot. They agreed and I referred them.

Richard Esposito
Phone: 203.676.3527
Website: www.photographer-re.com
Blog: www.photographer-re.info
Email: re@photographer-re.com
myKPW State and Budget: CT $80k+

Quote of the Day

2009-11-11T09:16:00.002-05:00

"At the end of the day, a loving family should find everything forgivable." - Mark V. Olsen and Will Sheffer, Big Love, "Easter"

Shout out to Eve Photography

2009-11-10T10:33:00.013-05:00

Eve Photography is an amazing company based out of Massachusetts. Take a few minutes to check out the beautiful work on her website!

Eve Photography
Phone: 603.320.6387
Website: www.evephotography.com
Email: evgenia@evephotography.com
myKPW State and Budget: MA <$25K

Eve Photography is a member of my Kate Parker Wedding, a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

Quote of the Day

2009-11-10T09:48:00.000-05:00

"If the family were a fruit, it would be an orange, a circle of sections, held together but separable - each segment distinct." ~Letty Cottin Pogrebin

Shout out to Atlas PyroVision Productions

2009-11-09T14:59:00.008-05:00

If you are looking to add a little something extra to your wedding, we suggest getting in touch with Atlas PyroVision Productions. Fireworks can be a very exciting treat for you and your guests and they will even custom design a fireworks display to the music of your choice! KM

Atlas PyroVision Productions
Phone: 603.532.8324
Website: www.atlaspyro.com
Email: matt@atlaspyro.com
myKPW State and Budget: $80k+ in NH, ME, VT, MA, CT and RI

Atlas PyroVision Productions is a member of my Kate Parker Wedding, a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

Connecticut Wedding Planner - Jubilee Events

2009-11-09T14:20:00.016-05:00

My Kate Parker Weddings member Jubilee Events is a wedding planning boutique based out of Connecticut. They specialize in chic weddings and occasions.

Image courtesy of RAW Photo Design

Jubilee Events
Phone: 203.632.5654
Website: www.eventjubilee.com
Blog: http://eventjubilee.com/blog/
myKPW State and Budget: CT $50-80k and $80k+

Number of years in business: 2 years

Preferred wedding locations: New England, specifically Connecticut. I absolutely ADORE a chic Connecticut wedding!

Pricing information: Our pricing varies based on our clients’ needs, but we start just under $2,000.

What makes me stand out in my industry: I came into the industry with a fresh perspective – I’m young, fun, enthusiastic and have a different eye for weddings and the industry as a whole. I truly believe my art background plays a HUGE role in the design of a Jubilee Event!

What's the favorite part of what I do: I absolutely love the design process – it’s my favorite part. From the big picture to the small details, I just love it all! I equally love being a part of my clients personal history. It is such an incredible thing to be so intimately involved in someone’s wedding day.

What do I like to do in my spare time: Spare time? Ha! No really, most of my time is devoted to doing what I love, and that’s my business. When I’m not working I love to hang with my husband, family, and friends. I love a good glass of wine, a book, and some fun reality TV.

What charity am I supporting and why: I’m supporting the American Cancer Society because SO many of my loved ones have beaten or succumb to cancer. It’s such an important charity, in my eyes, and we all have a personal tie to the disease.

Check some images of Candice's favorite events from the 2009 season below:

Photo Credits: Dagney & Michael – Robert and Kathleen Photographers http://www.robertandkathleen.com
Liz & Jayson – Robert and Kathleen Photographers
Marin & Joseph (“MJW”) – Wendy G Photography http://www.wendygphotography.com
Marie Antoinette Style Wedding – Carla Ten Eyck http://www.carlateneyck.com
Fall Inspired Rustic Wedding – Carla Ten Eyck

Jubilee Events is a member of my Kate Parker Wedding, a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

Shout out to Emily's Catering Group

2009-11-09T12:28:00.008-05:00

We would like to recognize Emily's Catering Group, an amazing caterer based in Forestville, CT. Check out there website below! KM

Emily's Catering Group
Phone: 860.585.8625
Website: www.emilyscater.com
Email: info@emilyscater.com
myKPW State and Budget: CT $50k-$80k and $80k+

Emily's Catering Group is a member of my Kate Parker Wedding, a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

A Fall Wedding with Images by Geneve Hoffman Photography

2009-11-09T10:53:00.026-05:00

Geneve Hoffman recently photographed the October 31st, 2009 wedding of Corey Volovar & Bruce Wexler at Thorpewood located in Thurmont, Maryland. The overall theme was woodsy/Fall and you can see that Geneve had fun playing with the jack o lanterns at Thorpewood. Since their wedding day was on Halloween, they decided to have a costume party for the rehearsal dinner, so fun! Check out some images from the wedding day below . . . KM

Geneve photographed the wedding at Thorpewood located in Thurmont, Maryland (Camp David is in Thurmont...very woodsy and classic “camp” setting) The reception was in the “Pine Cathedral” on the property.

All the center pieces were baskets filled with flowers and pumpkins.

Candied apples were the favors, one at each setting.

The Groom wore his families tartan pattern and his grandfather’s sporran. His mother, Father and brother wore the family colors as well. The groomsmen wore a traditional tartan pattern.

The bride picked out custom brooches for all her bridesmaids to wear on the sashes of their dresses.

To represent the Groom's Scottish Heritage the Wedding party was led by bagpipes.

One of the groomsmen serenaded with John Denver’s You Fill Up My Senses both vocals and fiddle.

The Groom’s family was from Philly, so they had a grooms cake with The Eagles.

Both the Bride and Groom are actors in California so they did a dramatic and humorous first dance . . .

It started raining fairly hard right at the end of the ceremony--everyone got drenched and muddy and had a blast (there is a fun picture of their shoes in mud).

They ended the evening with cigars...a family tradition.

This couple was really fun to photograph because they were completely camera unaware most of the day...they are used to being around cameras.

Geneve Hoffman Photography
Phone: 207.475.3000
Website: www.genevehoffmanphotography.com
Blog: www.genevehoffmanblog.com
Email: contact@genevehoffmanphotography.com
myKPW State and Budget: ME $25k-$50k, $50k-$80k and $80k+

Geneve Hoffman Photography is a member of my Kate Parker Wedding, a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

Introducing New Members to the myKPW Family!

2009-11-09T09:38:00.025-05:00

We are so happy to welcome these six new members to the myKPW family!

Parrott Design Studio
Website: www.parrottdesignstudio.com
myKPW State and Budget: RI $25k-$50k

Cookies Direct
Website: www.cookiesdirect.net
myKPW State and Budget: $25k-$50k in CT, ME, MA, NH, RI, VT and NYC/Westchester County

Photo Booth Planet
Website: www.photoboothplanet.com
myKPW State and Budget: MA $25k-$50k, RI $25K-$50K and CT $25k-$50k

Custom Ceramics by Traci
Website: www.customceramicsbytraci.com

myKPW State and Budget: <$25k in CT, ME, NH, MA, RI, VT and NYC/Westchester County

Dutch Bloemen Winkel
Website: new website coming soon, so stay tuned!
myKPW State and Budget: NH <$25k and $25k-$50k

Silver Toad

Website: www.silvertoad.com

myKPW State and Budget: VT $25k-$50k and $50k-$80k

Quote of the Day

2009-11-09T09:30:00.003-05:00

"The family. We were a strange little band of characters trudging through life sharing diseases and toothpaste, coveting one another's desserts, hiding shampoo, borrowing money, locking each other out of our rooms, inflicting pain and kissing to heal it in the same instant, loving, laughing, defending, and trying to figure out the common thread that bound us all together." - Erma Bombeck

A KPW Island Wedding off the Coast of Portland, ME

2009-11-06T14:45:00.002-05:00

When Isabel and Ben found us and told us their idea to incorporate her Venezuelan heritage into his Maine wedding location we were more than thrilled at the opportunity to combine the two very different cultures. Using the Venezuelan culture we were able to incorporate vibrant aqua's and oranges into a coastal Maine island setting and when the two blended it created a beautiful overall design. Take a look at some of the images below. . . KM

The people who made this wedding happen:

Wedding Planning and Floral and Event Design: KPW studio

Photography: Claris Photography (myKPW member)

Videography: MapleLoft Studios (myKPW member)

Ceremony Music: Copley Chamber Players

Cocktail Hour and Reception: Dj Ryan Parker for the KPW Studio

Reception: Combo Sabroso for Cuzin Richard Entertainment Associates (myKPW member)

Custom Runner: The Original Runner Co.

Rentals: Be Our Guest Party Rentals, Boston, MA

Table Numbers and Placecards: Jan Boyd Calligraphy (myKPW member)

Ceremony Location: Sacred Heart Parish - Yarmouth, ME

Ceremony Transportation: VIP Tour and Charter

Bride Transportation: Grace Limousine (myKPW member)

Reception Location: Great Diamond Island, Portland, ME

Caterers: Diamond's Edge Restaurant (myKPW member)

Cake: Something Sweet by Michelle, Worcester, MA (myKPW member)

Hair: Hair that Moves, Berwick, ME (myKPW member)

Makeup: Joya beauty, Dover, NH (myKPW member)

All of the fabulous images are from Liesl Clark of Claris Photography.

The ceremony aisle was lined with simple galvanized buckets filled with white Hydrangea and miniature green Hydrangea. Notice the simple aqua banding to give the guests just a hint of what was to come.

This runner was absolutely gorgeous, we had it custom made by the Original Runner Co. to match the design of the wedding invitations.

Here is a close up the ceremony aisle adornments, very Maine with just a hit of Venezuela.

The Bridesmaids looked amazing in their aqua dresses and the contrasting vibrant orange bouquets of Mokara Orchids, miniature Calla Lilies, Crocosmia, and Milva Roses looked phenomenal.

Isabel looked beautiful in her gown (Love the orchid in her hair!), here she is leaving the ceremony in her antique car which was provided to us through Grace Limousine at the very last second after our original vehicle had a mechanical problem. We are so thankful that they drove all the way from Manchester, NH to Portland, ME to help us out!

We were so thrilled with Isabel's bridal bouquet composed of Cymbidium Orchids, white miniature Calla Lilies, white Freesia, white Polar Star Roses and white aqua gem studded Stephanotis.

The Maine Coast is such an amazing place for a wedding, despite a little bit of wind, Isabel looked stunning as she arrived on Great Diamond Island after the ceremony.

For the cocktail hour we made use of festive white feathers and green Monstera Leaves to bring in a little more of the Venezuelan feel.

Adding a signature drink to your wedding can be a fun little addition for your guests to enjoy. For Isabel and Ben we created a drink called the "Ocean" it was comprised of Hypnotiq, Coconut Rum, a splash of Pineapple Juice and a Splash of Club Soda, served on the rocks. A very festive drink with a aqua color to match the overall theme.

A small “cajita de paja” (straw box) that was hand-made in Ecuador held a Venezuelan chocolate. Venezuela is a major exporter of delicious cocoa, which is renowned world-wide. We paced the straw boxes inside the white boxes and adorned them with aqua ribbon and a custom quilled tag.

The wedding cake was comprised of two flavors, one representing Venezuelan culture, and one the Maine culture. Half of the cake was coconut based, with Passion Fruit frosting and Mango, all fruits that grown in Venezuela. The other half was a traditional lemon cake with blueberry sauce representing the famous wild blueberries that grow in Maine.

The table numbers were created by Jan Boyd Calligraphy, we loved the combination of having the table number and table name combined.

The glassware, china, flatware, linens and chairs were provided by Be Our Guest Party Rental out of Boston, MA.

These milk bottle lanterns are always a great addition to any wedding where your guests have to walk somewhere in the evening. Plus you can customize them to match any wedding by simple adding matching ribbon. These lanterns lined the road leading the reception site.

At Isabel and Ben's reception the guests had to walk a short distance from the tent to the rest rooms, the paper bag lanterns provided a nice pathway to direct the guests throughout the evening.

Here you can see the paper bag lanterns in the evening . . .

In true Venezuelan tradition Isabel and Ben wanted a Cotillion during there reception, take a look at the these masks!

A great way to add some depth to a tented wedding is to have custom lighting to uplight the ceiling of the tent. For Isabel and Ben we chose some warm oranges and pinks to create a warm and festive atmosphere for the guests.

Such a beautiful couple . . .

Hope you enjoy!

KM

Shout out to the Events Center at the Oaks

2009-11-06T10:00:00.000-05:00

The Events Center at the Oaks is a beautiful location for your wedding ceremony and reception located in Somersworth, NH.

Check out some images from their website:

The Events Center at the Oaks
Phone: (603) 692-6257
Website:www.weddingsattheoaks.com
Email: jthompson@theoaksgolflinks.com
myKPW State and Budget: NH <$25k

The Events Center at the Oaks is a member of my Kate Parker Wedding, a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

Quote of the Day

2009-11-06T09:39:00.002-05:00

"No matter what you've done for yourself or for humanity, if you can't look back on having given love and attention to your own family, what have you really accomplished?" -Lee Iacocca

Shout out to Jennifer Stone Photography

2009-11-06T00:30:00.000-05:00

We would like to recognize Jennifer Stone, a wonderful photographer based in Maine. Take a look at one of her recent engagement sessions in Boston's North End. KM

Jennifer Stone Photography
Phone: 800.799.3660
Website: www.jenniferstoneweddings.com
Blog: jenniferstoneblog.com
Email: info@jenniferstoneweddings.com
myKPW State and Budget: ME $25k-$50k

Jennifer Stone Photography is a member of my Kate Parker Wedding, a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

"Trash the Dress" Photographer Series: Candace Jeffery Photography, Part III

2009-11-05T12:38:00.024-05:00

The concept of Trash the Dress is exploding onto the scene of wedding photography and there are endless concepts to consider and create for each photo shoot. Equally important to the thoughts and ideas of the photographers, are the thoughts and wishes of the Bride. Below we have summarized the experience of Selena, the bride from part I and II of our "Trash the Dress" Photographer Series with Candace Jeffery Photography. KM

Check out Part I and Part II of Candace's Trash the Dress display, including her thoughts on what Trash the Dress means to her and preparation images of the Trash the Dress Process.

How did you learn about Candace Jeffery?

I was visiting Brides to Be in Glastonbury, Connecticut, and the one item that I walked out of the store with was a postcard listing Candace’s information on it. Intrigued from her reading her postcard, I looked more into Candace’s work on her site and I saw this one picture of a bride in and old factory; it was a Trash the Dress photo and I loved it! Candace’s work is very artsy, and I loved, well all of her work! And she’s also very easy to get along with as she has so many great ideas.

I decided to have Candace not only do my engagement session and wedding, but also Trash the Dress. And I just have to say that I’m someone who’s never liked pictures of myself. Candace made me feel so good about myself especially after looking at the photos she has captured, so it made me more comfortable about doing something like Trash the Dress.

How did you learn about Trash the Dress?

I actually came across it on the Internet and saw photos of other brides doing it – some to the total extreme. And I thought many of the photos were artsy, fun and cool, and I loved the idea of preserving my dress with photos. And for me, my expectation was not to ruin my dress, but perhaps to get a little messy

What was the location for your photos?

We went to Harkness Memorial State Park in Waterford, Connecticut. This was the place where we wanted to get married but it was a little too much for my wedding day, so this was a nice contrast.

How would you describe your Trash the Dress Experience?

It was so much fun! I wanted something that was outside the box and a little different, like a piece of art that I can hang in my home. Like I mentioned before, this was the perfect way to preserve my dress, rather than just having it sit in my closet. And on my wedding day, there were pictures that I wanted to take but I didn’t want to get my dress all dirty. And one of my favorite parts of the day was getting all glammed up again. Getting hair and makeup done makes me feel so pretty!

Selena - Bride

Candace Jeffery Photography
Phone: 860.227.2684
Website: www.candacejefferyphotography.com
Blog: www.candacejeffery.blogspot.com
myKPW State and Budget: CT $25-50k

Candace Jeffery Photography is a member of my Kate Parker Wedding, a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

Shout out to Saltwater Farm Vineyard

2009-11-05T10:06:00.005-05:00

Saltwater Farm Vineyard is a beautiful venue set on more than 100 panoramic acres near the historic New England coastal village of Stonington, Connecticut. In Kate Parker's personal opinion, after a recent trip to the vineyard, the venue has a very Santa Barbara meets Connecticut kind of aesthetic, an amazing combination! KM

Check out some images from their website:

Image by Dennis Rano

Image by Joshua Behan

Saltwater Farm Vineyard
Phone: 800.818.7258
Website: www.saltwaterfarmvineyard.com
Email: info@saltwaterfarmvineyard.com
myKPW State and Budget: CT $80k+

Saltwater Farm Vineyard is a member of my Kate Parker Wedding, a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

Quote of the Day

2009-11-05T09:53:00.002-05:00

"Family life is full of major and minor crises- the ups and downs of health,  success and failure in career, marriage, and divorce - and all kinds of characters.  It is tied to places and events and histories.  With all of these felt details,  life etches itself into memory and personality.  It's difficult to imagine anything more nourishing to the soul."  - Thomas Moore

Vendor Spotlight - Birch Blaze Photography

2009-11-04T15:03:00.007-05:00

Connecting with a bride and groom is imperative to Kerry and Taylor of Birch Blaze Photography in order to capture all essential moments of a wedding. Check out Birch Blaze Photography in today's Vendor Spotlight!

Birch Blaze Photography
Phone: 603.539.4480
Website: www.nhweddingphotographer.com
Blog: www.birchblazephotography.com
myKPW State and Budget: MA, ME, VT - under $25k

Number of years in business: Taylor and I have about 10 years of professional photography experience between us. We began accepting wedding bookings in 2009, prior to that we were involved in commercial photography, primarily in the food/hospitality industry. I (Kerry) have a background in graphic design and for the past few years have also been the layout artist/photo editor for a globally distributed water sports photo journal which has helped hone my skills at photo retouching and album design. We both have always had a love for photography and people, so photographing people on one of the happiest days of their lives has become the perfect meeting place of our passions and creativity.

Preferred Wedding/Engagement Session Locations: We prefer natural, outdoor settings, but urban locations can also be great. With e-sessions, a location that means something to the couple will nicely complement the shoot and make them feel more comfortable. Of course, capturing the essence of two people--who they are, what they’re feeling and what they mean to one another--is the main goal of any wedding or engagement session. With that in mind, virtually any location can be “worked” to make the shoot a success.

Pricing Information: Our wedding packages currently start at $1875. E-sessions are $200.

What makes me stand out in the industry? There are so many great wedding photographers out there right now so standing out in the industry is a pretty tall order! Of course, we believe in our craft and are very proud of the images we produce, and our desire is to work with couples who feel a connection to the way we approach our photography. If we stand out in the industry to you, as a bride and groom, then it’s pretty likely we will be a great fit for you. Being a great fit for any couple that hires us is our ultimate goal.

What's the favorite part of my work?

Kerry: I really enjoy the editing process. Opening up those images you’ve amassed from the day’s shoot and seeing them onscreen is so exciting! Then there are so many creative choices you can make in taking them from camera to print. So fun. I also enjoy absorbing the plethora of blogs, tutorials and interviews available online. There’s no end to the generous stream of instruction from top pros in the industry and I can’t get enough. Of course, nothing beats the basic action of picking up a camera and taking a picture and obviously, the more you do it, the better you become.

Taylor: Artistically speaking, being able to spend my days doing something creative and fulfilling is wonderful. It’s hard to say one thing that I enjoy the most but I do love photographing people. Each shoot becomes unique because every individual is different and we have the incredible privilege of finding and capturing those qualities and characteristics.

What do I like to do in my spare time?

Kerry: The main reason I love my life is that I get to spend almost all day, every day with my best friend, soulmate and Wife, Taylor. So in addition to getting to work together, my favorite spare time activity is spending time with Taylor. I have 3 children that I love hanging out with and I’m also a musician, occasionally playing out with a band or as a soloist. (Love outdoor stuff too!)

Taylor: I would have to agree with Kerry on being able to spend so much of our time together. I so enjoy being with him and find myself perpetually joyful in his presence. So, that’s pretty fantastic. I also love hiking, kayaking, camping, etc… anything that affords me the opportunity to be outside. I love music and I’ve been taking cello lessons for a little over a year and that has been a challenging but great experience. Lastly, I must admit I also have an affinity for the Golden Girls.

What charity am I supporting and why? The American Cancer, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, and the ASPCA. We’ve opted for all three because they’re all great causes and every family is affected by at least one of the issues that these charities address. (We had a hard time picking just one!)

my Kate Parker Wedding is a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

Shout out to Leslie Dumke

2009-11-04T14:30:00.000-05:00

We wanted to recognize Leslie Dumke, an amazing photographer, and one of our my KPW family members for her recent attendance at a Studio Success Seminar held by the famous Kevin Kubota at Sugarbush Resort in VT. KM

Take a look at some of Leslie's images from the seminar:

Leslie Dumke Studio
Phone: 203.458.0545 or 917.533.9446
Blog: www.lesliedumkestudio.blogspot.com
Website: www.lesliedumkestudio.com
Email: lesliedumke@yahoo.com
myKPW State and Budget: CT $50k-$80k and NYC/Westchester County $50k-$80K

Leslie Dumke is a member of my Kate Parker Wedding, a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

Vendor Advice and Trends - Calluna Fine Flowers on working with a Floral Designer

2009-11-04T11:08:00.007-05:00

Heather from Calluna Fine Flowers shares with brides some advice when finding and working with a floral designer for their wedding day. Check out what Heather has to say and see some of her fabulous work below.

- You should feel comfortable with the people you hire. Get a good feeling of what the vendor does, the products they have, the quality they produce, and their pricing. The vendor needs to provide what you're looking for and not change what you want to fit them. Also, if you don't connect with the vendor, it's not going to work.

- You need to trust your vendors. Brides always want to be involved with every detail of their wedding, as they should be. But there is some point where the bride needs to feel comfortable enough to let go and let us do our jobs.

- When working with flowers, trust your floral designer to surprise you a little bit. I had one bride and she just said to me "surprise me!" She did tell me a few of her favorites but I went out to the market and picked different things that she never thought of. She trusted me to do something fabulous and was able to do just that.

- The biggest thing to keep in mind when choosing flowers for you wedding, make sure you look at examples in the store on the their website and talk to other brides who've had used the vendor. Recommendations and word-of-mouth is always emotion-filled which will give you a better feel for the vendor.

Calluna Fine Flowers
Phone:207.641.0867
Website: www.callunafineflowers.com
myKPW State and Budget: ME $25-50k

my Kate Parker Wedding is a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

Quote of the Day

2009-11-04T10:01:00.001-05:00

"Bringing up a family should be an adventure, not an anxious discipline in which everybody is constantly graded for performance."
- Milton R. Saperstein

Add Some Excitement to your Wedding with SBL Lighting!

2009-11-03T14:38:00.011-05:00

If you are looking to add a whole new dimension to your wedding take a look at SBL lighting to see what they can do for you! Check out some images from a Rhode Island wedding featuring work from SBL Lighting! KM

All images by Claris Photography

Phone: 781.899.5883
Website: www.sbllighting.com
Email: info@sbllighting.com
myKPW State and Budget: MA $80k+ and RI $80k+

SBL Lighting is a member of my Kate Parker Wedding, a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

"Trash the Dress" Photographer Series: Studio 1923

2009-11-03T14:11:00.006-05:00

A photographer's take on Trash the Dress may differ from one person to the next, but there is this consistent theme of being able to feel "unrestricted", as Jerome from Studio 1923 noted. See what the concept of Trash the Dress means to Jerome and check out some photos below!

How do you define the concept of Trash the Dress? We define the whole concept quite differently than the status quo. We leave the opportunity open for couples as well as just brides to get back in their wedding attire and have some fun retaking their wedding photos in locations and poses that wouldn't necessarily be available to them on wedding day. Whether it be because of time restrictions, seasonal restrictions, weather scenarios, or just for "unrestrictions" such as sexy poses, drastic approaches, alternate dresses, alternate hair styles, etc. We actually created a completely different website than our own to showcase just these shoots. We don't even call them "Trash the Dress" we call them "Wear it One More Time". The website is: www.wearitonemoretime.com

What does Trash the Dress mean to you? To us, it's a chance to flex some creative muscle and experiment. Play with aggressive lighting, alternate angles, maybe even break out a ladder for a high overhead shot, etc. To us it's completely fashion based and freedom of expression.

What do you think it means to your brides? To the bride, it means take photos completely unlike what their family and friends might expect to see in a wedding dress.

Why do you choose to do "Wear It One More Time" sessions? We do it specifically for the creative vision/expression and to keep things provocative and unique foot forward.

And the bride? To have something that nobody else has. Utterly unique photographs that represent the couple as they really are. And also to get the most out of their wedding dress before they pack it up for life/ or donate it.

How do you approach the session? We approach each session hoping to reflect the couple as best as possible and their wants. We have to ask the question, "What do you plan to do with the photos?" meaning, what do you want them for? Wall art? An album? A supplement to your wedding photos? Not everyone wants to lay down on the train tracks, nor does everyone want a gothic flair to their shoot. Some want simple fashion photos to replace/add to their bridal portraits.

Do you provide the ideas or does the bride present her own ideas or in other words, what is your vision compared to the bride's vision? Ultimately the vision and the creativity is always ours. That's what we do. The best we can do for ourselves and our clients is to stay true to our soul and vision. We LISTEN to what they want, and go from there.

What do you like to achieve during the session?
A look, pose, vibe, etc., that we haven't seen before nor have we created before.

(this photo was featured on The TODAY Show)

(Jerome capturing Jack and Michelle)

(the 3 images above are two sisters on the same day)

(yes, the 3 image above are of Lindsay from Sixpence For Your Shoe)

Studio 1923
Phone: 866.913.1923
Website: www.studio1923.com
myKPW State and Budget: CT, MA, NYC-Westchester County all $80k+

my Kate Parker Wedding is a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

myKPW Site Reveal - A Bride's Budget

2009-11-03T12:54:00.003-05:00

A bride's budget is always an influential part of the planning process and a component that is often revisited. For this reason, we felt it's super important to create a resource for a bride to easily track and visualize her expenses with the use of charting--but nothing too complicated. For each service, brides will be able to view the Industry Standard (based on her budget) compared to what she is actually spending. Check out a screen shot of the Budget page available to brides on myKPW:

my Kate Parker Wedding is a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

Engagement Session by Val McCormick Photography

2009-11-03T11:01:00.011-05:00

Check out Val McCormick's new blog post on an engagement session at Lyman Orchards in Connecticut. What a beautiful day! KM

Val McCormick Photography
Phone: 203.589.7099
Website: www.valmccormick.com
Email: val@valmccormick.com
myKPW State and Budget: CT $25k-$50k

Val McCormick Photography is a member of my Kate Parker Wedding, a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

Quote of the Day

2009-11-03T09:06:00.001-05:00

"Becoming responsible adults is no longer a matter of whether children hang up there pajamas or put dirty towels in the hamper, but whether they care about themselves and others -- and whether they see everyday chores as related to how we treat this planet." - Eda LeShan

Introducing New Members to myKPW!

2009-11-02T14:55:00.008-05:00

We are always excited to announce new myKPW members as we have four vendors joining us and they are:

Birch Blaze Photography
Website: www.nhweddingphotographer.com
Blog: www.birchblazephotography.com
myKPW State and Budget: ME <$25k, MA <$25k, and VT <$25k

Beyond the Lens Photography
Website: www.beyondthelensphotography.com
Blog: www.beyondthelensphotographyblog.com
myKPW State and Budget: CT $25-50k

Cuzin Richard Entertainment
Website: www.cuzinrichard.com
myKPW State and Budget: ME and NH, $25-50k (Reception Music)

Lasso'd Moon Designs
Website: www.lassodmoondesigns.com
Blog: www.lassodmoon.blogspot.com
myKPW State and Budget: CT, MA, MA, NH, RI, VT, NYC-Westchester County, each $25-50k

my Kate Parker Wedding is a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

Shout out to Diamond's Edge Restaurant

2009-11-02T14:26:00.004-05:00

Diamond's Edge Restaurant is an amazing wedding venue located on Great Diamond Island off the coast of Portland, ME. The venue offers amazing catering service and a beautiful tented location for your wedding reception.

If you decide to have a island wedding at a venue like Diamond's Edge one of the most essential items to think about when planning your event is transportation to and from the island. Before making any final decisions on timing for your ceremony, cocktail hour and reception make sure you take a close look at the available transportation options and their schedule to ensure you are able to get your guests to and from the island on time. For weddings on Great Diamond Island we recommend Casco Bay Lines.

Check out some images from a wedding we did this summer on Great Diamond Island:

All images by Claris Photography

Diamond's Edge Restaurant
Phone: 207.766.5850
Website: www.diamondsedge.com
Email: diamondsedge@gwi.net
myKPW State and Budget: ME $25k-$50k and $50k-$80k

Diamond's Edge Restaurant is a member of my Kate Parker Wedding, a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

The Wedding Row- a myKPW recap!

2009-11-02T14:00:00.002-05:00

So, yesterday I drove down to Clinton, CT to visit the Wedding Row, a group of 5 fabulous wedding industry professionals who have their studios and storefronts right next to each other on Main Street (104 and 110 East Main Street to be exact.) They official title, Wedding Row. Great style. One destination, says it all. The five companies that make up the Wedding Row are:

Bridal- The White Dress by the shore www.thewhitedressbytheshore.com

Paper- Stonington design+paperie www.stoningtonpaperie.com

Lingerie- Beneath the Gown www.beneaththegown.com

Beauty- Jennie Fresa Beauty Library www.jenniefresa.com

Events- True Event www.trueevent.com

I took some photos of the event on my Iphone, so you will have to forgive the lack of quality in the following images....

Starting at No. 110 East Main Street...

I started my tour at the Beauty Library... what an adorable space! Fresh and full of so many fun things for a bride to look at and try.

Here's the woman behind the Beauty Library, Jennie Fresa herself! She was showing me her new treatment room where she is going to offer one simple and comprehensive and exclusive service, the Fassage. Combining a facial, massage, and a pedicure, what more can a girl ask for?

This adorable space separates the Beauty Library from True Event. LOVED this tablecloth provided by Rentals Unlimited.

In the next room is the studio space for True Event. With a very vibrant wash of yellow throughout the details of the room, you can see the past work of True Event as well as some of Sarah's daily inspirations...

Had to get a group photo with Sarah True accompanied by Justin and Mary Marantz (members of the myKPW family) and Kristen from Sugarbelle in Glastonbury... what a fabulous group of wedding professionals who all came out on a Sunday to support the Wedding Row!!

Then to No. 104 East Main Street....

I am now realizing I didn't get very good images of Christine Toner's space for Stonington design+paperie... sorry Christine! This image does show, however, that there were a LOT of people at this event and everyone was enjoying bits of food and drink wherever they went!

This space is also where brides can schedule appointments to select their bridesmaids dresses.... loved the depth of purples in this display!

Here, Beth Chapman of the White Dress by the shore is visiting with Kristen of Sugarbelle and her sister-in-law who is actually a bride to be herself!

Although I didn't have one of these since I was driving 3 hours home, people were sipping these left and right so Perfect Parties was doing a fabulous job with the food and drinks for the event!

Couldn't resist taking this shot- that's so myKPW aqua!! LOL

The reception area at the White Dress by the shore, with a fabulous floral arrangements by Hana floral design.

Now, in between the two studio spaces was a fabulous Sperry Tent and inside the tent were some very fantastic vendors and guests....

Chamard Vineyards was gracious enough to offer wine to everyone and I heard they had a rockin' Halloween Party the night before....

One of my favorite parts of this event was the fabulous music by Loukoum! They were actually playing music from the move, Amelie, which I was blown away by! Nothing like a bit of old French music on a fall afternoon in New England! You can listen and learn more about this group at Divina Strings.

Another fabulous example of Hana floral design's work... what fun!

Perfect Parties showed off some of their beautiful wedding cakes in the tent and their desserts they were serving as I left were incredible!

Okay, I'm going to get in trouble for posting this image I bet... but I had to give a shout out to DD Nickel and Lindsay Maurath of Fresh Lime Events. We met for lunch before coming to the Wedding Row and DD was so kind enough to do both Lindsay's and my makeup. I said "Hot Mess" right before I took this, hence the laughing shot... LOL

The husband and wife duo of Ryan Designs in Rhode Island... check out their event rental options... great new company! Their website will be launching soon, check out their FB fan page in the meantime!

Now, to finish this post, I have to give a direct shout out Geoff Gordon of Photo Booth Planet. I just met Geoff at A Thyme to Cook's 25th anniversary party two weeks ago and he was showing everyone his fantastic photo booth at the Wedding Row all afternoon. I didn't know you can select color, black and white, and even sephia tone for your images... here are some samples including the hilarious Bruce Plotkin of Bruce Plotkin Photography (member of myKPW) and Linda Sample of A Thyme to Cook (member of myKPW)

Some of these vendors have already joined myKPW, some are joining as we speak, and some are just fabulous and we wanted to mention them to you. We are all about supporting our wedding community, and we are SO happy for the Wedding Row and were glad we got in the car and drove the 3 hours to see everything at their open house. Thanks so much ladies!

KP

my Kate Parker Wedding is a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

myKPW Photo Shoot - Floral Design by Apotheca

2009-11-02T10:31:00.013-05:00

Late this summer, myKPW held a photo shoot with the concept of a bride getting married at different times during the day. We challenged four photographers, a hair and makeup team, a bridal stylist, and floral designer to create a look unique to each of our four brides according to their ceremony time; morning, afternoon, late afternoon, and evening.

Alyssa from Apotheca graciously jumped on board and designed four beautiful bouquets. Check out the designs she created along with her thoughts during the design process. ~LS

A Morning Bride

Time of Wedding: 11:00am
Inspiration: Simplicity, Understated, Casual.
Color Palette: Moss Green, Limoncello, Warm White
Floral Palette: Lady's Mantle, Soft Yellow Roses, Scabiosa, Chamomile, White Asters

image by Studio Nouveau

Thoughts: Using smaller, busier textures leads to a more relaxed, informal bouquet. In this case, the chamomile, lady's mantle, and scabiosa, work with the roses to create an elegant, but "casual garden" feel. This design mix is echoed again with the textile choices in the bouquet wrap--white satin with twine.

images above by Studio Nouveau

An Afternoon Bride

Time of Wedding: 2:00pm
Inspiration: Colorful, Playful Interest.
Color Palette: Moss Green, Limoncello, Papaya, Apricot,
Floral Palette: China Berry, Coral Fern, Green Parrot Tulip, Helliobore, Limon Spray Roses, Yellow Calla, Cottage Yarrow, Roses, Ranunculus

image by Claris Photography

Thoughts: An early afternoon wedding can be playful and fun--but always elegant! The bolder take on the palette in the bouquet was "contained" by surrounding the colors in coral fern. For the wrap I used a Sophisticated & Serious Green Dupioni Silk, but cuffed it with a bright, vintage-feel silk rosette.

images above by Claris Photography

A Late Afternoon Bride

Time of Ceremony: 4:00pm
Inspiration: Depth, Sophisticated Textures.
Color Palette: Sage Green, Limoncello, Papaya, Apricot, Champagne,
Floral Palette: Apricot Garden Rose, Papaya Rose, Warm White Ranunculus, Yellow Calla, Succulent, & Peiris

image by Roxanne Ashey Photography

Thoughts: By introducing Champagne and Sage and more sophisticated textures like the succulents and Romantic Draping Peiris, the bouquet feels more elegant. The wrap is a generous amount of Double Faced French Satin in Pewter and Sage Green.

images above by Roxanne Ashey Photography

An Evening Bride

Time of Ceremony: 6:00pm
Inspiration: Structured Elegance.
Color Palette: Moss Green, Limoncello, Apricot, Warm White, Champagne
Floral Palette: Ranunculus, Calla, Roses, Phaeleonopsis Orchids.

image by Brea McDonald Photography

Thoughts: Monochrome Palettes are the safest way to sophistication, but in this case I wanted to keep the color; so, to streamline it a bit I cut back on the range of color and blocked the flower elements together. I also exaggerated the structure by giving the bouquet strong lines via the offset cascading orchid and the rolled leaf collar. The wrap was Double Faced Satin, French Ribbon in Pewter and Lemon, and was embellished with a patterned cuff and silver buttons.

images above by Brea McDonald Photography

Apotheca Flower & Tea Chest
Phone: 866.479.4594
Website: www.apothecaflowershoppe.com
myKPW State and Budget: NH $25-50k and $50-80k

Other vendors (including our photographers listed above) who helped make this shoot a success were:

Hair: Hair that Moves
Makeup: Joya beauty
Attire: Occasions Bridal and Tuxedos

my Kate Parker Wedding is a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

My KPW Family Member Speaking at Partner Con 2009

2009-11-02T10:05:00.008-05:00

Pictage Partner Con is a 2 ½ day conference of engaging speaker sessions, knowledge sharing, hands-on shooting workshops, and leading exhibitor demonstrations for professional photographers.

We wanted to recognize one of our wonderful my KPW family members, Justin and Mary Marantz for not only attending this event but speaking there as well! Click here to learn more about the conference and what Justin and Mary had to say about "How to be a Rainmaker". KM

Justin and Mary is a member of my Kate Parker Wedding, a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

Quote of the Day

2009-11-02T09:37:00.001-05:00

"Your family and your love must be cultivated like a garden. Time, effort, and imagination must be summoned constantly to keep it flourishing and growing." - Jim Rohn

Vendor Advice and Trends - Diana from Diana Ma Weddings & Events on Planning

2009-10-30T14:28:00.010-04:00

Diana from Diana Ma Weddings & Events shares with brides some helpful advice when working with a planner and some ways to help you achieve that dream wedding.

1. Please be as specific and detailed as possible. Planners want to give brides and grooms what they want. We try to anticipate our clients' needs, but we are planners not mind-readers :-)

2. Always ask. I try to keep the doors of communication open with all of my clients. I never want anyone to think they are imposing... it's a really monumental rite of passage we are planning together. It's better to get your concerns out in the open than to stew on them!

3. Determine what your top 3 most important, can't live without items are for your wedding and arrange your budget around those 3 things. Are you artistic and want to splurge on photography/videography? Then cut back on something that is less important to you. Too many times I have heard clients come to me for sophisticated photographers but they've only allowed $1,500 in their budget to book one. It's always best to evaluate your priorities first. You want to be able to spend on items that are near and dear to both you and your fiance.

4. Planners have your best interest in mind. Even if a client suggests something that may logically be un-doable for the event, planners will often exhaust resources to try and make it happen for them. However, try to keep an open mind if the request cannot be executed as imagined. Often times there are alternative solutions that may achieve the desired effect better.

5. Make sure it is clear up front, what you expect from your planner - as far as what they are managing and tracking. Miscommunications are easily avoided when both parties clear the air at the time of booking. Also, make sure you tell your planner what additional items they are responsible for - i.e. showers & other pre-parties, after parties, honeymoon bookings, etc.

6. Trust your intuition. Do not hire a planner even if she/he comes highly recommended if you do not feel an instant connection. This is your day! You will be seeing a lot of each other throughout the process and she/he will become your partner in crime. If the chemistry is not there, don't be afraid to tell the planner up front. The most professional planners will recommend you to another one of their colleagues whom they admire and respect.

7. Look for planners that have access to support staff. The day of the event is adrenaline filled for brides, grooms, families and vendors. There should always be a planner by side your side as you get ready as well as one on site to make sure there are no glitches in set-up.

8. Planners are the calm in a storm of nerves. Make sure your planner has a positive, calm demeanor about him/her. It is best to stay away from visually high-strung people... it's an emotional time! You don't want to be keyed up more than you already will be.

9. Keep your sense of humor. Come on, life is funny! How great the day turns out is 90% attitude. If the unexpected happens, roll with it. You are celebrating with the love of your life! Keep your eye on the prize for a beautiful life together and you are golden!

10. Allow yourself to enjoy the day. It can take more than a year's time to plan and execute an event. The actual wedding goes by in a flash. Stay calm, stay happy and relish every single moment of it! It's equivalent to crossing the finish line to an intense marathon, after months and months of training.

Diana also says that brides are getting a little "bolder" with the use of colors...

I've seen a big trend toward big bold colors which I personally love! My last wedding had bridesmaids in dark blue dresses with lemon verbena pumps! I think the rules have become blurred lately and brides & grooms are stepping outside the box to make sure their guests are having a great time and their personal touches are incorporated throughout. It’s almost as if there are no “rules”. As long as you can remain positive, have fun and do all you can to make your guests feel welcome, there is simply no wrong way to get married!

image by Elizabeth Bradford Photography

image by Rodeo & Co. Photography

images above (4) by Justin Munroe Photography

Diana Ma Weddings & Events
Wedding Planner and Designer: Diana Ma
Phone: 617.529.2512
Website: www.dianamaweddings.com
myKPW State and Budget: NH <$25k and $25-50k

Diana Ma Weddings & Events is a member of my Kate Parker Wedding, a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

A Coastal Maine Wedding Venue: The Retreat at French's Point

2009-10-30T13:10:00.004-04:00

The Retreat at French’s Point is an upscale, private estate located on the shore of Penobscot Bay in Stockton Springs, ME. The retreat offers a unique and historic setting for your wedding with breathtaking views to create an event that will be remembered for a lifetime. KM

The Retreat at French's Point
Phone: 207.567.3650
Website: www.rfpmaine.com
Email: events@rfpmaine.com
myKPW State and Budget: ME: < $25K $25k-$50k $50k-$80k $80k+

The Retreat at French's Point is a member of my Kate Parker Wedding, a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

"Trash the Dress" Photographer Series: Candace Jeffery Photography, Part II

2009-10-30T10:23:00.015-04:00

For any bride, the dress selection is always an important and emotional time but who says you only wear your dress once? A former bride, Selena, said no to wearing the dress once and decided to Trash the Dress with Candace Jeffery. As a team, they came up with several looks for her wedding gown. The two didn't work alone, however. The very talented Larissa Lake did hair and makeup to perfect each and every look. Check out some "before" and "after" shots with a little behind-the-scenes action. ~LS

Check out Part I of Candace's Trash the Dress display, including her thoughts on what Trash the Dress means to her. And don't forget, we're going to feature more photos from Selena's shoot and share with everyone her experience with Trash the Dress, so stay tuned!

Candace Jeffery Photography
Phone: 860.227.2684
Website: www.candacejefferyphotography.com
Blog: www.candacejeffery.blogspot.com
myKPW State and Budget: CT $25-50k

Shout Out to Night Rhythm

2009-10-30T09:16:00.007-04:00

If you are searching for a band for your wedding, we highly suggest Night Rhythm, an amazing band based out of Boston, MA. Take a look at their website and listen to some of their samples, you won't be disappointed! KM

Night Rhythm
Phone: 978.256.1400
Website: www.nightrhythm.com
Email: daniel@nightrhythm.com
myKPW State and Budget: MA $50k-80k

Night Rhythm is a member of my Kate Parker Wedding, a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

Quote of the Day

2009-10-30T09:14:00.000-04:00

"I know why families were created with all their imperfections. They humanize you. They are made to make you forget yourself occasionally, so that the beautiful balance of life is not destroyed." - Anais Nin

A True Reflection - Donald & Trenholm Photographers

2009-10-29T14:57:00.000-04:00

The other day we saw a photo on Facebook taken by the very talented duo, Heather and Austin, of Donald & Trenholm Photographers. The reflection in the floor couldn't have been more perfect and made for a very stunning shot. Check out their Connecticut wedding...

Donald & Trenholm Photographers
Phone: 603.548.7233
Website: www.donaldtrenholm.com
Email: donaldtrenholm@gmail.com
myKPW State and Budget:

- NH $25-50k
- MA <$25k

Donald & Trenholm Photographers is a member of my Kate Parker Wedding, a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

myKPW Site Reveal - A Bride's To Do List

2009-10-29T13:15:00.000-04:00

A To Do List is an essential item to guide brides through the planning process of their wedding. While other bridal resources provide To Do Lists, many of them can be a little daunting with all of the items they list. Our idea is to simplify and give the bride the ability to customize the list to fit her wedding details.

Also, other resources tend to be generated by one voice. With myKPW, we want to reach out to all myKPW vendors for thoughtful advice that can be incorporated into the list, linking each vendor to their vendor page.

Below are screenshots of the To Do List and some details as to how a bride is able to personalize her list to fit her wedding:

- In the left-hand column, the bride can reorder her list either by renumbering her list or by using the up and down arrows.

- The bride can sort her list either by chronological order or she can sort by vendor category so she can easily anticipate upcoming tasks.

- Personal notes can be added, whether she wants to put in a meeting time and date or a phone number to call a vendor, she can add in tasks that are for HER wedding. Furthermore, the bride can expand the note to include a more detailed reminder or thought.

- For each To Do task, the bride can expand the task to read in more detail as to what the task might entail or require.

- With the check boxes on the right, a bride can select if the task is "Done" or "Remove" in case the task does not pertain to her wedding. She can also select "Add" to place a new line item into her list. For example, if she wants to add in that she's taking Dance Lessons, a new task will appear.

my Kate Parker Wedding is a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

A Barn Wedding by Geneve Hoffman Photography

2009-10-29T11:32:00.000-04:00

A family farm in Alna, Maine - just outside of Camden/Union - made for a perfect setting for Katy and Makoto's wedding. Katy thoughtfully designed all of the graphics and flowers to fit a historic theme painted in yellows and greens -- and she even designed her dress! Throughout the night, Katy, Makoto, and guests (including Makoto's family flying in from Japan) dined and sipped on Spanish cuisine and wine. Check out moments from their wedding captured by Geneve Hoffman. -LS

Geneve Hoffman Photography
Phone: 207.475.3000
Website: www.genevehoffmanphotography.com
Blog: www.genevehoffmanblog.com
Email: contact@genevehoffmanphotography.com
myKPW State and Budget: ME, $25-50k, $50-80k, $80k+

A summer KPW wedding on Squam Lake

2009-10-29T09:59:00.001-04:00

Megan was one of our favorite clients this summer and I think you'll understand why after you look at these photos. We usually work with brides who want a fairly simple and subdued design but Megan was the exact opposite. She came to our studio with Pucci fabric and sapphire blue bridesmaids dresses in mind and we were in love! We wanted to keep the wow factor somewhat of a surprise throughout the ceremony decor and cocktail hour, but as soon as you entered the ballroom at Church Landing in Meredith, NH you were shocked with deep sapphire blue dupioni silk table cloths and Pucci-inspired toppers on each dining table. Hope you enjoy the images! Plus, could Megan and Josh have had better weather for their entire wedding weekend... I don't think so! KP

The people who made this wedding happen:

Wedding Planning and Floral and Event Design, Welcome baskets, Paper Products: KPW studio

Photography: Emilie Inc. (myKPW member)

Welcome Party, Pre-launch Reception, and Sunday Brunch catering: The White Apron, Dover, NH (myKPW member)

Tent for Murphy Residence: Sperry Tents Seacoast, Portsmouth, NH (myKPW member)

Restroom Trailers for Murphy Residence: Dave's Septic, Bedford, NH

Ceremony Music: Woodwind quartet for the ceremony through Cuzin Richard Entertainment, Portsmouth, NH (myKPW member)

Cocktail Hour and Reception: Holy Cow! Band

Rentals: Custom linens provided by Indigo Moon, New Rochelle, NY

All other rentals: Be Our Guest Party Rentals, Boston, MA

Ceremony Location: Chocorua Island Chapel, Church Island, Squam Lake

Ceremony Transportation: Wolfeboro Trolley, Squam Lake Natural Science Center- pontoon boats, Puffin III 1928 Fay and Bowen

Reception Location: Church Landing, Meredith, NH

Cake: Something Sweet by Michelle, Worcester, MA (myKPW member)

Hair: Hair that Moves, Berwick, ME (myKPW member)

Makeup: Joya beauty, Dover, NH (myKPW member)

All of the fabulous images are from Emilie Sommer of Emilie Inc. Photography.

We started the wedding weekend Friday night at the Murphy's home on Squam Lake- where the famous On Golden Pond movie was filmed. We created a casual and fun cookout with a fantastic Sperry tent that we figured we should reuse for the pre-launch reception for the ceremony on Church Island. This might be the most beautiful lake in NH, what do you think?

These are Megan and Josh's welcome bags we put together for them... notice the hints of blue throughout but without overwhelming the guests... wait until you see the reception photos!

We love reusing flowers when we can so Friday nights flowers were all sunflowers and we changed a few containers and the layout of the tent for Saturday's pre-launch reception.

Had to post this.... Megan's younger brother was in charge of shuttling some of the VIP guests and some vendors to the ceremony island and he couldn't stop himself from feeling like James Bond- how often do you drive a speed boat in a formal tux? :)

I told you Squam Lake was beautiful...

Sometimes weddings are all about logistics... Megan and Josh's wedding was no exception... having almost 200 guests coming from all over the country, all driving or being shuttled to a private home in Center Harbor, NH to get on two different fleets of pontoon boats to make it to a 4:00 pm ceremony.... ahhhh! In order to make this run smoothly, Megan's mother Lauren suggested we give everyone tickets to differentiate between the first and second boat runs... To make everything match, we found tickets that were blue and purple which we thought made the perfect statement!

Because we had two pontoon boat runs scheduled, and because the trip took almost 15 minutes each way, the first group of guests were left on the island for a bit of time. Megan's mom suggested we give these folks something to do so we made copies of one of the recent NY Times crossword puzzles, bought some golf pencils, copied the history of Church Island, and brought lots of bottled waters for their enjoyment as they passed the time.

Megan arrived at Church Island in a classic 1928 Fay and Bowen Lake antique boat which we will show you in a bit... The hard part is getting to the island without wrecking your hair style... Megan embraced a bit of old Hollywood and wore a pashmina to cover her hair.. love it!

Now on to the ceremony... this was an interfaith ceremony so we had a pastor who happened to be a family friend of the Murphy's and rabbi present and we enjoyed the service so very much! Here are a few images of the aisle adornments and the huppah, which we adorned with the bridal veil of Megan's grandmother and Josh's grandfather's Tallis. We love adding these personal touches to a ceremony!

Here are the ladies as they prepare to walk down the aisle! Such a beautiful royal blue bridesmaid dress color, right? We wanted Megan to have all the color in her bouquet so we reversed the palate and gave the ladies all white flowers.

Another close up of the personal flowers.

Right after the ceremony, we had Megan and Josh sneak off in the Puffin III for a few minutes of alone time... Here they are returning to the island for their photos.

After the ceremony, Emilie and J gathered all the VIP guests for formal and informal photos on Church Island while the guests left for the reception.

Now onto the details of the reception and to reveal the color scheme we've been talking about.. The first place we revealed the infamous Pucci-inspired print was right on Megan's bouquet...

Here's the place card table that turned into the favor table at the end of the night... here are images of the table with the favors adorning it.

We must make mention that the favor's were hand made by Megan and her family as she is famous for making the best fudge in town!

We LOVED this deep sapphire blue dupioni silk... it catches the light so beautifully.

Here's a close up of the Pucci-inspired table toppers.

In addition to sapphire blue, Megan loved yellow so we added these callas to each of the napkins for a bit of color emphasis.

We always like to bring something special in for the bride and groom's place setting so we had two custom chair sashes made for their chivari chairs.

To complete the modern transformation to the ballroom, we brought in our white lounge furniture and replayed Megan and Josh's video montage from their welcome reception on a large plasma tv.

So last but not least I thought I would finish this post with my favorite shot of the entire wedding... this is why you want to hire a photographer who makes you feel completely comfortable and relaxed like Emilie... could Megan have looked more happy and peaceful?

Seriously....

Thanks for reading! KP

Quote of the Day

2009-10-29T09:07:00.000-04:00

"In truth a family is what you make it. It is made strong, not by number of heads counted at the dinner table, but by the rituals you help family members create, by the memories you share, by the commitment of time, caring, and love you show to one another, and by the hopes for the future you have as individuals and as a unit." - Marge Kennedy

Putting him to work already...

2009-10-28T16:37:00.000-04:00

We couldn't resist taking this photo, and Liz couldn't resist adding the pen behind Zach's ear... but I swear he LOVES typing on the computer and I think he actually knows what the mouse does. I think it's hilarious, but then again, I am his mother... hope this picks everyone's end of the day up! KP

Vendor Spotlight - d.d. Nickel Makeup Studio

2009-10-28T13:33:00.000-04:00

With tremendous makeup experience and talent, dd Nickel has the right touch for any bride to create that perfect look for either the glam bride or someone who just wants to enhance their natural glow. Check out dd in today's Vendor Spotlight!

d.d. Nickel Makeup Studio
Contact: dd Nickel
Phone: 203.777.4161
Website: www.ddnickel.com
Email: dd@ddnickel.com
myKPW State and Budget:

- CT, $50-80k and $80k+
- VT, $80k+

Number of Years in Business: I have been a professional makeup artist for over 18 yrs…12 years as a freelance artist based out of NYC. My projects have included Runways, Red Carpets, Broadway, TV, and … lots of beautiful Brides!

Pricing Information: Rates start at $350 for the bride plus two. Each additional person starts at $50. Final rates are based on the amount of travel required. Lashes are complimentary and the bride receives a lipstick or gloss for touch-ups.

What makes me stand out in what I do? I think part of being an exceptional makeup artist is being a good listener, making the ability to interpret my clients needs and desires into a look that works for both them and the camera one of my strong points. I also think the range of my work sets me apart from many artists. I’m thankful everyday for the wide variety of projects and experiences I’ve had as a professional makeup artist.

What's the favorite part of my work? I love that every day is different and no two projects and faces are the same!

What do I like to do in my spare time? Walk my rowdy dogs and lazy around with the cats. I love hunting for antiques and spending time in Vermont which usually includes a good book in the hammock. And I heart gardening…It’s really just painting with plants. Other than that…cooking, eating, a great glass of wine and good company are my favorite way to end the day!

What charity am I supporting and why? I support the ASPCA! I have two dogs, two cats and I’d have a hundred more if I could…

d.d. Nickel Makeup Studio is a member of my Kate Parker Wedding, a new online wedding resource guide launching in January 2010 geared toward directing brides to quality vendors based on their price range and state.

Check Out Maine Photo Booth Company

2009-10-28T13:13:00.001-04:00

It's always fun to add a little something extra to your wedding to help enhance your guests' experience. We recommend you check out Maine Photo Booth Company and see what they can do for you! KM

Maine Photo Booth Company
Owner: Peter Small
Website: www.mainephotoboothco.com
E-mail: mainephotoboothco@gmail.com
myKPW State and Budget: Maine $25k-50k and $50k-$80k

Bridal Boudoir - Claris Photography

2009-10-28T11:05:00.000-04:00

Gaining popularity among brides, Boudoir Photography is thought to be an intimate yet a fun and playful experience - but what is it really about? Liesl from Claris Photography shares with brides (and grooms) her thoughts around the Boudoir concept and what it means to her. LS

The idea of Boudoir Photography is as old as it is new. It's been around for a long time but recently has received much attention. As it relates to Wedding Photography, it is usually meant to be a photography session the bride participates in prior to the wedding and in turn gives the groom on the wedding day in the form of an album or prints. This session can be scheduled before or after the wedding but most of the time it is completed several months prior to allow time to order products (i.e. albums and enlargements). Once in a while, it is scheduled during the "getting ready" phase of the wedding day but this time of the day can be chaotic and it is not always ideal.

I have found it to be one of the most profound and amazing gifts a man could ever receive from his soon-to-be wife based on the comments I heard after the fact. It has drawn the attention of women of all ages and even couples as a gift to each other. (I have even had a client who was inspired to do this as a 25th wedding anniversary gift for her husband)

Because of the intimate nature of this type of photography, it is imperative that the client feels a good connection with her photographer. As a female photographer, I feel this factor helps to ease the tension and allows a stronger trust and comfort level during the session. When I am first contacted about doing a Boudoir session with a bride, I want to know what style of imagery would she like to produce for this session, At this point I ask for several samples of what she has in mind either torn from a magazine or sent online in an email. From these examples I will learn what the client had in mind and use my own creativity from there. I usually recommend the client to have a stylist to do hair and makeup prior to the session and then to stay during the shoot to work closely with me during outfit changes to freshen up and/or change the look for variety's sake. I work inside and outside, weather permitting, based on the client's comfort level to produce a range of images in various lighting situations in about a 2 hour time frame. It can be done at the client's home, a hotel, my studio, or any location of her choosing depending on the style of the imagery.

This photography session can sometimes take bravery and courage on the part of the bride-to-be but it is truly appreciated on the receiving end. To give the gift of oneself is intimate and one-of-a-kind. There is no way to compare this to any other. I have never heard any complaints from any groom-to-be EVER! It is worth the effort and time in every way and with careful planning and communication with the photographer is a very fun and adventurous experience.

Check out some of Liesl's Boudoir work below:

Claris Photography
Phone: 1.800.207.8256
Website: www.clarisphotography.com
Email: liesl@clarisphotography.com
myKPW State and Budget:

- MA, $50-80k and $80k+
- ME, $50-80k
- NH, $50-80k

Shout Out to Alyson's Orchard

2009-10-28T09:59:00.000-04:00

If you are looking for a wedding venue with an authentic New England feel take a look at Alyson's Orchard in Walpole, NH. They have a wonderful facility and multiple outdoor ceremony locations. KM

Images by Christopher David

Alyson's Orchard
Proprietors: Susan and Robert Jasse
Website: www.alysonsorchard.com
E-mail: info@alysonsorchard.com

myKPW State and Budget: New Hampshire Under $25k

Quote of the Day

2009-10-28T09:52:00.000-04:00

"When you look at your life, the greatest happinesses are family happinesses." ~Joyce Brothers

Vendor Spotlight - Diana Ma Weddings & Events

2009-10-27T13:39:00.001-04:00

Whether you are looking for a coordinator for the day of your wedding or someone to plan out your entire day, Diana Ma has the style and talent to customize an unforgettable experience. Check out Diana Ma in today's Vendor Spotlight!

images above by Meg Hamilton of Rodeo & Co.

Diana Ma Weddings & Events
Wedding Planner and Designer: Diana Ma
Phone: 617.529.2512
Website: www.dianamaweddings.com
myKPW State and Budget: New Hampshire under $25k and $25-50k

Number of Years in Business: Diana Ma Weddings & Events launched in June 2009, but I have been planning weddings and parties for friends and family for as long as I can remember. I have also had more than 7 years experience in marketing management and consumer package goods.

Preferred Wedding Locations: I personally love outdoor tented weddings because it is like working with a blank canvas. Every bit of the wedding is completely customized - from walls to ceilings to lighting. I also love the relaxed, semi-casual atmosphere that comes with every outdoor event.

Pricing Information: Full-scale packages start at $3,000 while day-of packages start at $1,500. My first concern is assessing how I can best help each situation and will work with clients on shoe-string budgets.

What makes me stand out in what I do? My goal for each and every one of my clients is to not only enjoy the planning process but to be on cloud 9 come time for the wedding. I do all that I can to shield burdens and problems from my clients - opting first to resolve them with my team and vendors - so that we can move on to make it a stellar celebration! It's such a gorgeous time for brides & grooms as well as for guests. We want everyone to really soak in the beauty of the day and celebrate in the marvelous miracle that is happening before them! We go out of our way to tend to the details, making sure guests are happy and comfortable.

What's the favorite part of my work? Wedding planners take customer service to a whole other stratosphere! There is nothing I love more than to see my clients beaming and happy! When I see that dreamy look in their eyes, I know I have done what they've commissioned me to do. And there is not one thing that can beat that feeling!

What do I like to do in my spare time: I love catching up with the love of my life, Ken and his amazing, highly spirited sons, Tucker and Max. We spend a lot of time hanging out together, going to their sporting events and making each other laugh! I love trying out new recipes for my boys - dinnertime has been deemed really sacred at our house.

What charity am I supporting and why? American Cancer Society - I would really like to see our brilliant cancer researchers find a cure for this disease once and for all. As I get older, more and more of my friends and loved ones have succumbed to cancer. It's humbling and has made me realize how short life can be. Everyone should be spending their time doing what they love and being happy!

images above by Justin Munroe Photography

Delicious Desserts-and yes, they're delicious!

2009-10-27T13:35:00.000-04:00

I am in awe of the talent we're gathering for the myKPW family and Lisa Raffael is no exception. At the KPW studio we've been lucky enough to work with Lisa and her team a few times this past summer and have experienced both her fantastic level of customer service and have also eaten many pieces of their cakes... all I can say is FANTASTIC!! Located on Cape Cod, a lot of Lisa's clients request a more seaside feel to her designs, but we want you to take a look at all of her designs and learn a bit about this incredible pastry chef! Bon appetit! KP

Delicious Desserts
Website: www.deliciousdesserts.net
Phone: 1.508.540.3352
Email: lisa@deliciousdesserts.net
myKPW categories: MA 25-50k, 50-80k

myKPW Site Reveal - Creating a Featured Wedding

2009-10-27T10:16:00.001-04:00

Creating a Featured Wedding on myKPW is super easy and we just wanted to show vendors how quick it really is. Check out the snapshots below to get an idea of how setting up a Featured Wedding works on myKPW.

(And we just wanted to note that the example photos below are of a wedding this past summer, captured by Liesl at Claris Photography)

(more images appear as you scroll down)

On the Featured Weddings page, you will have a blank template to begin your setup. Open the toggle photo tray to display all photos that you loaded to your vendor page.

Once you've decided which photos you want to use in your Featured Wedding, all you need to do is drag the image to the desired spot.

And there you go! Easy as that. Once you've filled in all spot with the photos you want to use, now you're ready to give your Featured Wedding it's details.

In the Featured Wedding view, at the top of the page select "Edit Wedding Text".

Here, you can enter in a title and the colors scheme of the wedding.

The color options are simply a drop down menu which displays a wide range of color options.

Then you can identify the style, season, date of the wedding, and any sort of description that you'd like to include.

And there you go!

Now, just one more step...adding in all of the Vendors who were a part of the wedding. So back up at the top of the page, select "Edit Vendors". Each field will auto load the myKPW vendors so that each one will not have to be typed out in full.

And you're done! All of the Vendors appear on the right side of the page and are linkable.

Shout Out to Precious Moments Video

2009-10-27T09:57:00.000-04:00

Selecting the right videographer for your wedding day is very important. Your videographer will provide you with a live video of your wedding day that you will be able to cherish for years to come. Take a look at Precious Moments Video to see what they can do for you! KM

Precious Moments Video
Videographer: Tom Teneriello
Website: www.preciousmomentsvideo.com
myKPW State and Budget:

- New Hampshire $25k - $50k
- Massachusetts $25k - $50k and $50K - $80k
- Rhode Island $25k - 50k and $50k - $80k

Quote of the Day

2009-10-27T09:44:00.000-04:00

"Call it a clan, call it a network, call it a tribe, call it a family. Whatever you call it, whoever you are, you need one." ~Jane Howard

Road Trip: Brea McDonald, Griffin-vites, and Maine Seasons Events

2009-10-26T14:51:00.000-04:00

Brea, Sara, and Meagan we featured on Maine Maven today! After using Meagan's backyard for a spring shoot, this group of very talented individuals took a little road trip to Clark's Cove Farm in Walpole, ME to use the apple orchard as a backdrop for the autumn portion of their shoot. Click here to check out their work on Maine Maven!

Brea McDonald Photography
Website: www.breamcdonald.com
Blog: www.breamcdonald.com/blog/
myKPW Budget and State: Maine $50-80k and $80k+

Griffin-vites Stationery
Website: www.griffin-vites.com
myKPW Budget and State: Maine and Massachusetts, $50-80k

Maine Seasons Events
Website: www.maineseasonsevents.com
myKPW State and Budget: Maine <$25k and $25-50k

Justin & Mary - A Photo We Love

2009-10-26T13:21:00.000-04:00

The rainy New England weather is always perfect for reading a good book sipping cocoa, though not as perfect for a wedding. Well it didn't bother Justin & Mary's bride as the pouring rain had no effect on her wedding day. Check out the photo that Justin & Mary featured in their blog this weekend!

Justin & Mary
Photographers: Justin and Mary Marantz
Website: www.justinmarantz.com
myKPW State and Budget:

- Connecticut $80k+
- Massachusetts $80k+
- Vermont $50-80k and $80k+

Justin & Mary were also recently featured on Style Me Pretty! Click here to check out their photos from the shoot.

Quote of the Day

2009-10-26T11:26:00.000-04:00

"A family is a unit composed not only of children but of men, women, an occasional animal, and the common cold." ~ Ogden Nash

Jubilee Events and Maine Seasons Events featured on Style Me Pretty

2009-10-26T10:11:00.000-04:00

Recently, a photo shoot designed by Candice Dowling of Jubilee Events was featured on the Style Me Pretty blog. Check out the event styling and design: Part I and Part II

Jubilee Events
Event Planner and Designer: Candice Dowling
Website: www.eventjubilee.com
Blog: www.eventjubilee.com/blog/
myKPW State and Budget: Connecticut $50-80, $80k+

images above by Carla Ten Eyck

Also, a wedding designed by Meagan Gilpatrick from Maine Seasons Events was featured on Style Me Pretty's Little Black Book blog on Friday. Click here to check it out!

Maine Seasons Events
Event Planner and Designer: Meagan Gilpatrick
Website: www.maineseasonsevents.com
myKPW State and Budget: Maine <$25k and $25-50k

images above by Cunningham Photography

Introducing Three New Members to myKPW!

2009-10-23T14:33:00.001-04:00

We'd like to welcome and introduce three vendors to the myKPW family!

A Thyme to Cook
Owner: Linda Sample
Website: www.athymetocook.com
myKPW State and Budget: Connecticut $50-80k and $80k+

d.d. Nickel Makeup Studio
Owner: dd Nickel
Website: www.ddnickel.com
myKPW State and Budget: Connecticut $50-80k and $80k+, Vermont $80k+

Sperry Tents
Contact: Bancroft Potter
Website: www.sperrytents.com
myKPW State and Budget:

- $25-50k for Maine and New Hampshire
- $50-80k for all states
- $80k+ for Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Vermont, and NYC/Westchester County

Barn Weddings - Donald & Trenholm Photographers

2009-10-23T12:04:00.000-04:00

The rustic charm of a barn wedding is something that is becoming more and more popular among brides as the setting is conformable to many decorating styles or themes. Check out a barn wedding captured by Heather and Donald from Donald & Trenholm Photographers.

Donald & Trenholm Photographers
Photographer: Heather Donald and Austin Trenholm
Phone: 603.548.7233
Website: www.donaldtrenholm.com
myKPW State and Budget: Massachusetts <$25k, New Hampshire $25-50k

This particular setting was at the Laudholm Farm Reserve in Wells, Maine. The reception was held in the horse barn next to the main house. The bride and groom had lighting designers come in and install chandeliers just for their wedding. Austin said it was absolutely beautiful!

Quote of the Day

2009-10-23T09:54:00.000-04:00

We thought it might be nice to provide a quote each day for all of our my KPW family members:

"Families are the compass that guide us. They are the inspiration to reach great heights, and our comfort when we occasionally falter." -- Brad Henry

Vendor Spotlight - Petals Floral Design

2009-10-22T14:55:00.000-04:00

We love that Michelle from Petals Floral Design uses flowers from local growers and her own garden to create chic wedding arrangements and bouquets. Check out Michelle in today's Vendor Spotlight!

Petals Floral Design
Floral Designer: Michelle Boleski
Phone: 802.793.7814
Website: www.petalsfloraldesignvt.com
Blog: www.petalsfloraldesignvt.com/blog.html
myKPW State and Budget: Vermont $25-50k and $50-80k

The Number of Years in Business: I have been in business since 2006.

Preferred Wedding Locations: I don't really have an preferred location but I have done venues in San Francisco and New York.

Pricing Information: I do not have a price list...

What makes me stand out in the industry? I graduated from Parson's School of Design and studied painting and illustration. I LOVE color and texture and I am a gardener. I often use locally grown flowers from the area and my garden. I also love collecting vintage fabric, containers and pottery and have all sorts of wonderful items to rent for weddings.

What the favorite part of my work? I love flowers and I love colors. I love helping customers plan the day and then see it all come together the day of the event. As part of my service, I pin corsages and boutonnieres on the wedding party and present bouquets. It is rewarding to hand the bride her bouquet and so far I have managed to make my brides happy on their special day.

What do you like to do in your spare time? In my spare time I am an elementary art teacher, a proud Mom of a beautiful 20 year old, and a proud owner of three dogs and a cat. I spend a lot of hours at the dog park :)

Which charity am I supporting? I support the ASPCA and Best Friends Animal sanctuary.

Do you have any tips or advice to share with brides when working with a floral designer? When working with floral designer, find out how many events the designer has the day of your wedding and be prepared to be flexible with flower choices. For colors, any color combination is possible; it's so much fun to work with all possibilities! Finally, keep in mind that you can add anything unique to your wedding day to make for an amazing day. There are so many resources and ideas on the web and in specialty stores for brides -- it's really amazing, but don't be afraid to make your own traditions.

"Trash the Dress" Photographer Series: Candace Jeffery Photography

2009-10-22T11:13:00.001-04:00

Trash the Dress is becoming more and more popular among brides as it gives them that second chance to slip on their unforgettable dress that they spent so much time searching around for just to be adventurous. This ever so popular concept has given us the chance to ask photographers for their take on Trash the Dress and what it means to them and their brides. Is it rolling around in the mud or is it just about getting those few additional shots in the grass that the bride didn't want to try on the day of?

Check out what Candace from Candace Jeffery Photography had to say about Trash the Dress.

Candace Jeffery Photography
Photographers: Candace and Josh Jeffery
Phone: 860.227.2684
Website: www.candacejefferyphotography.com
Blog: www.candacejeffery.blogspot.com
myKPW State and Budget: Connecticut, $25-50k

For me, I approach the Trash the Dress concept as a chance for my bride to wear her beautiful dress one more time. I view it as a second opportunity to get all dressed up again and have some more beautiful images taken. I find this to be very exciting, and I approach each session with a lot of positive energy.

I encourage my brides to think about what they wish they could have done differently on their wedding day, but just weren't able to do. For me, I had to wear my mother's pearl necklace because it was sentimental, but I'm not really a pearl girl. So I would do my TTD photos with some very bold, bright, chunky jewelry. Some brides don't feel comfortable laying down in a pile of leaves or on the grass for fear of getting their dress dirty, but they can do that during their TTD session. I think almost every brides looks back at her wedding, and finds new things that she wishes she could have done differently. Perhaps it's wearing a special pair of funky shoes, dying the tool under their dress a great color, wearing their hair down, adding a great sash or belt. Or sometimes it's a wedding day logistics problem; the location that you really wanted to do photos at was way to far away, or the weather was uncooperative. Another fun idea is doing destination TTD as we have one line up for this winter in Punta Cana! So, I really try to talk with my brides on what her expectations are, and how she wants to look. I don't want to do the photos just for shock value, or to see how crazy we can be. Depending on the brides personality and desires I may suggest locations that I think will be awesome.

I love doing it because I find that it's a way for me to express myself a bit more creatively, to take some more chances, and to really relax and have fun with my brides. One thing that I love to photograph is contrast. I love to take something so beautiful like a bride in her gown, and drop her in a location that is CRAZY! I think there is something really special about that. I let the bride decide how far it goes in regards to how damaged her dress gets. It's not normally my intention to completely destroy or "trash" her dress, but more to create fantastic images.

On other thing to think about with Trash the Dress is I highly recommend having a skilled hair and makeup artist on hand. It's fun to change up your look a couple of times during the shoots, and that includes hair and makeup.

Below are some of Candace's Trash the Dress photos. In an upcoming blog post, we'll be featuring one of Candace's brides, Selena, as she shared with us her Trash the Dress experience.

Below are just some of the photos from Selena's shoot. Check out more when she shares with us her experience with Candace!

A Thyme to Cook - 25th Anniversary Celebration

2009-10-21T12:40:00.000-04:00

Yesterday evening, the myKPW girls had the opportunity to join Linda and her team at A Thyme to Cook to celebrate 25 tasty years! The night was perfect and the food of course was incredible.

When we first arrived by a swanky party bus (too bad the drive wasn't a bit longer), we were greeted by Black & Blue martinis and Linda herself as she was putting together a few final details for the night. Before showing us her studio, Linda walked us through the beautifully decorated tent showing every detail from the flowers to food displays, and even the intimate lounge they created.

(Linda and Kate)

As guests arrived, it was apparent that Linda and her team have an incredible group of friends and supporters to celebrate the evening and to enjoy some really great food! The food selection for the evening featured items from the Past, Present, and the Future. The Past was made up of Swedish meatballs and macaroni and cheese with passed trays including pigs in a blanket - an all-time favorite! The Present was comprised of buffalo chicken pops and the tastiest miniature shepherd's pies. Then the future included roasted scallop and corn cakes, butternut squash and apple cakes, and beet pancakes. Most of the items served incorporated fresh ingredients provided by local farms and harvesters.

As we all indulged, the show was about to begin. A drawing was held, and thank you's were given to all of those who donated items for the evening and who've worked with Linda (and team) throughout years past. Then the fashion show. Fashion show you say?

Yes, four intricate designs were constructed over the course of one week. And being an avid Tim Gunn fan from Project Runway, they definitely "made it work"! Here are two outfits they sent down the runway...

Once the fashion show was complete, guests continued to mingle and proceed into the photo booth. We couldn't resist ourselves!

So the night was a complete success as it was a true celebration of A Thyme to Cook. Congratulations to all involved! Check out some more images from the evening below.

(This was the vegetable "display". FABULOUS! What a good sport.)

Vendor Spotlight - So Chic Events

2009-10-20T12:01:00.000-04:00

Whether you are looking for a full service planner, wedding day coordination or invitations and custom designs, these are among the many services that So Chic Events offers bride to create that dream wedding. Check out Shelby from So Chic Events in today's Vendor Spotlight!

So Chic Events
Planner: Shelby O'Connell
Location: Mendon, Massachusetts
Phone: 508.478.2309
Website: www.sochicevents.com
Blog: www.sochicevents.blogspot.com

Number of Years in Business: It was 3 years in June.

Preferred Wedding Locations: I can't really say that I have preferred locations as I really love working at different places -- it just makes it more fun to me. But, that being said, I love locations that are different, either an offbeat venue or one with great architecture. They just add so much character to the day. I also like locations that are especially meaningful to the couple, it makes the day as a whole much more special, especially when they share with their guests the reason for choosing it.

Pricing Information: I have packages that range anywhere from $120 for 2 hours of consulting to $4,000+ for full service planning. Because every client is different and may not need all the services I offer under a specific package, I am happy to customize a package tailored to their individual needs and budget.

What makes me stand out in my industry? Well I can only speak for myself but when a client hires me I give them the attention they deserve. I make it a point to be available pretty much whenever they need me. Having 2 little boys I find myself often working late after they're in bed and it's not rare for me to respond to an email at 1:00 AM. So when they think of something late at night and email me, it's often that they hear back from me before morning! They know they can reach me at my office or email and if they need me right away they have my cell phone. I don't mind helping them with little things like assembling favors or invitations, my job is to make their engagement enjoyable and the planning process easier. In addition to that I love the creative aspect surrounding my job. I have a keen eye for detail and honestly believe even the smallest detail matters. Often times it's the littlest ones that pull it all together. My ultimate goal is to help them personalize their day and make it unique.

What do I like to do in my spare time? Although spare time is rather rare, when I have it I love to spend time with family and friends, riding my Harley, skiing, reading a great book, being silly with my boys or doing anything crafty.

What charity am I supporting and why? I chose to support the American Cancer Society because unfortunately it has touched my life from several angles. I've known several people of all ages who have battled cancer, some who've lost the battle. It's a frightening thing because it doesn't discriminate, it can attack anyone, young or old. On a very personal level, my father is currently battling it for the 3rd time. Being a "daddy's girl" he has always been my rock and to see him remain strong through something like this just makes me admire him more. He's the strongest man I know and he's never stopped fighting. He's always put his family first, he's truly an amazing man and would do almost anything for anyone. I couldn't ask for a better dad. I hope someday they'll find a cure not just for him but for anyone that has had to go through it.

Engagement Session by Claris Photography

2009-10-20T10:57:00.000-04:00

An engagement session captured by Liesl from Claris Photography was recently featured on the Coco & Bella blog. Click here to check it out!

Vendor Spotlight - Griffin-vites Stationery

2009-10-19T12:56:00.000-04:00

Whether you're looking for invitations, save-the-dates, escort and place cards, or menus, Sara customizes paper products with the use of watercolors to create that one-of-a-kind style brides are looking for today. Check out Sara in today's Vendor Spotlight!

image by Brea McDonald Photography

Griffin-vites Stationery
Owner: Sara Fitzgerald O'Brien
Location: York Harbor, Maine
Phone: 207.361.4784
Website: www.griffin-vites.com

Griffin-vites is also on Facebook!

Number of Years in Business: Griffin-vites has been in business for just about 3 years.

Pricing Information: Our wedding invitation sets begin at $10. If a client is interested in custom illustrated stationery (which makes up a majority of our work at the studio), prices increase a bit and vary depending on the items of interest.

What makes me stand out in what I do? I hope that I bring a truly unique spin to custom stationery design. In creating original watercolor illustrations for Griffin-vites papers, I’m able to offer my clients the ability to really integrate their personality and style into their wedding stationery. I hope that others would recognize my passion for art/design, my detailed eye (to a fault at times!) and my love of people.

What's the favorite part of my work? Having the privilege to work creatively everyday is amazing. There are so many aspects of this career that I enjoy. Of course, the painting and paper design. But also, the correspondences with lovely clients (past and present), building wonderful relationships with fellow industry vendors (there is so much talent out there!) and being invited to play a role in such a meaningful event as one’s wedding!! Nothing makes me happier than getting that follow-up phone call or note from an excited bride-to-be who has just received positive (stationery) feedback from her guests! It makes my day!

What do I like to do in my spare time, if you have any? Haha… seriously. Well, I spend as much time as I can with my fantastic (and patient) husband, Miles. And when we’re not laying low with our adorable pups, Griffin and Sadie, I’d say spending time with family & friends, catching a movie, eating (this should probably be listed first!), writing, antiquing and decorating our home rank up there on the list!

What charity am I supporting and why: I’ve chosen to support the ASPCA and am thrilled to have this as an option! I am a HUGE animal lover and would not have found my scruffy little terrier-mixes, Griff and Sadie, if it weren’t for shelter adoption and rescue organizations.

Also, I'd like to mention the Griffin-vites ‘Pet Notes’ collection. Clients simply email in some photos of their favorite pet and I custom create their watercolor illustration, which is then printed onto note cards. They make for great gifts --- and I’m SO excited to say that a portion of their proceeds will be donated to local animal rescue efforts! (The myKPW team thinks these are fabulous!)

image by Geneve Hoffman Photography

Check out more of Sara's work...

image by Geneve Hoffman Photography

image by Brea McDonald Photography

image by Geneve Hoffman Photography

image by Brea McDonald Photography

New Hampshire Photographers

2009-10-16T15:45:00.000-04:00

We just wanted to announce that we have filled the space for New Hampshire Photographers in the 50-80k budget. We're so very excited to announce the Photographers who will be representing this category, and they are:

Claris Photography
State(s): Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire
Website: www.clarisphotography.com

MAC Photography
State(s): New Hampshire
Website: www.mac-photography.com

Studio Nouveau
State(s): New Hampshire, NYC-Westchester County
Website: www.thestudionouveau.com

Paige Hiller Photography
State(s): New Hampshire, Vermont
Website: www.paigehillerphotography.com

This completes the availability for New Hampshire Photographers. Even though we are currently full for Photographers in New Hampshire, please let us know if you are interested in learning about my KATE PARKER WEDDINGS and we'll keep you in mind for future opportunities.

Introducing Five New Members to myKPW!

2009-10-16T12:42:00.000-04:00

We are always excited to announce new myKPW members as we have five vendors joining us this week, and they are:

Marty Kelly Paper
State(s): Massachusetts
Website: www.martykellynantucket.com

Precious Moments
State(s): Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island
Website: www.preciousmomentsvideo.com

Eric Foley Photography
State(s): Rhode Island
Website: www.ericfoleyphotography.com

Petals Floral Design
State(s): Vermont
Website: www.petalsfloraldesignvt.com

image by Brent Harrewyn

EFD Creative - Event Planning & Design
State(s): Massachusetts
Website: www.efdcreative-events.com

image by Kristin Spencer Photography

Vendor Advice and Trends - Austin from Donald & Trenholm Photographers on Wedding Photography

2009-10-16T10:05:00.000-04:00

Austin Trenholm from Donald & Trenholm Photographers shares with brides some helpful tips on choosing the right photographer for their big day. You can check out just some of Austin's work below or you can visit their site at www.donaldtrenholm.com to see more!

- Make sure you like your photographers. Generally people don't like getting their picture taken by anybody. If you don't especially like your photographer then you won't be comfortable while being photographed.

- Ask to see lots of work. Ask to see the last wedding they did. Anybody can put together a website with good images if they take enough photos. A good photographer will make quality work every time.

- Talk a lot ahead of time about what kind of photos you like, or just some of the favorite things about your wedding so far. Those details help a photographer ensure to get those extra shots that may not be the most obvious, but you'll love! Consistent communication is a large part of our success as photographers.

- Doing an engagement shoot or any kind of pre-shoot will help you become more comfortable in front of the camera and also help the photographer know exactly how to make you look your best on the wedding day. Everyone photographs differently.

- Show your photographers photos of your dress ahead of time! We love dresses and it helps us plan for photographing it.

Austin also shares with brides a few trends he's currently seeing in the photography world...

- The trend today is a very stylish one. We are seeing a lot of dresses and hair styles that are reminiscent of times past, 30s and 40s style. We love that.

- Digital! Although we do have a special place in our hearts for film, digital is king. It allows for so much creativity that it is the best way to work. Today's digital cameras and equipment are so good that there is simply NO excuse for missing a moment. We also love this!

Check out some of their work below...