Modern Bridal Shower for the Gourmet Bride

Hello Beauties!

I love designing bridal showers because all of the most important women in a Bride's life come together to share their wisdom for a happy marriage.  The bride is given advice on how to keep up with housework, ways to resolve arguments and easy dinner ideas.  


Learning how to cook to suit you and your future husband's lifestyle is so important and A Gourmet Recipe Shower is a modern take on the traditional kitchen shower.  Who wouldn't love going out to Zagat rated restaurant every night, but that just isn't realistic with work and eventually children.  Hosting a Gourmet Recipe shower for the Bride will help get her ready to wow even the most work week weary husband.  

Invitations can include a kitchen utensil or a mini cutting board.  Be sure to include the customary details (when, where, rsvp) and also include the gourmet potluck recipe request.  Ask each guest to bring a gourmet appetizer or dessert along with the recipe.  All of the recipe's will be gathered and placed into a notebook for the bride to take home as a keepsake.  I  know I love to participate in a potluck but if you think your guests would be offended, then just request them to bring along their favorite gourmet recipe.

(martha stewart)

The table decor can incorporate kitchen utensils into the flower displays and centerpieces.  It is a fun way to incorporate the foodie theme, while also allowing the bride to take as a gift.  I personally love to use the Kitchenaid products.  The spatulas, spoons, peelers, etc are so durable and they come in the brightest colors!  If you do go with the KitchenAid centerpieces don't forget to display the bride's piece de resistance... The KitchenAid mixer!  

(hostess with the mostess)

A great game for a Gourmet Shower is an Exotic Taste test.  One of my favorite Top Chef quickfire challenges is where each chef must do a blind taste test on exotic fruit, spices, chutney and vegetables.  The shower can also incorporate a game with 10-15 different ingredients set up on a table and each guest is encouraged to taste test.  Once everyone has a chance to sample the offerings, the correct answers are tallied and the winner is announced!  A lovely gift basket filled with amazing products for the guests own kitchen would make a wonderful prize.

A table with a beautiful Gourmet Cook Book would make a unique guest book.  Each guest can sign next to their favorite recipe or add their own well wishes on the inside cover.  Near the Guest Book table would be the delicious favors.  A petite jar of rosemary infused sea salt would be a luxurious DIY project.  All you would need to do is insert three to four small sprigs of rosemary (any herb would work) into a glass jar before filling with sea salt.  Let them sit in a cool dark place for a few days before the party.  

(martha stewart)

Gourmet Potluck Recipe

If you do decide to incorporate a potluck element into the party I would recommend dividing everyone up into appetizer or dessert.  Then the hostess can provide the main course.  One of my absolute favorite recipes for a potluck is a Crescent Wreath.  You can fill the wreath with any fillings to accommodate any dietary needs. 

By: Jane Nachboe- Tastefully SImple
Crescent roll wreath

Ingredients
½ lb. mild Italian bulk sausage
3 Tbsp. Dried Tomato & Garlic Pesto Mix
1 cup shredded colby Jack cheese
½ cup chopped fresh broccoli
¾ (10.75 oz.) can cream of mushroom soup
¾ cup chopped red and green bell pepper
2 (8 oz.) tubes refrigerated crescent rolls

Directions
Brown first 2 ingredients in medium skillet until sausage is no longer
pink; add next 4 ingredients. Unroll and separate crescent rolls into
triangles; arrange crescent rolls with wide ends completely
overlapping in a wreath shape on large baking pan. Spoon sausage mixture over wide ends of crescent rolls; roll pointed ends and tuck under wide ends, leaving filling visible. Bake at 375° for 20-25 minutes. Makes 8-10 servings.

Would you want a Gourmet Shower?  What is your go-to Gourmet Recipe for weeknight meals? 

Insider's Tip: Bridal Gown Launch Party and Book Signing

Hello Beauties!

This week is sure to be Fun-Filled and Star-Studded!  There are two events in the Los Angeles area that would allow you to meet two stars in their field.  


First, On Thursday night the Bebe store on Rodeo Drive is hosting a party to celebrate the launch of their new bridal line.  And lucky me, my favorite designer from Project Runway, Rami Kashou will also be attending since he designed the entire line!

Bebe's Vow To Wow Event
Thursday March, 22, 2102
6-8pm
308 N. Rodeo Dr
Beverly Hills, CA

Then on Friday night, Courtney Dial Whitmore from Pizzazzerie, is hosting a book signing at the Barnes and Noble in Santa Monica Promenade.  The location is perfect because it is so lively and family friendly, just liker her book!   

She is a true inspiration for young business women, that is for sure.  She created a entertaining and lifestyle site and quickly turned it into appearances and features.  Now, she has her first book out,  Push-up Pops, all about an amazing way to make and display desserts in a modern way.  

Are you attending any of these great events?  I hope to see you there!

Beautiful Ceremony Spaces

Hello Beauties!

The heart of the wedding festivities lies in the ceremony.  When the two people involved are committing themselves to each other and all of the people most important to them are sharing in this tender moment, is something fairy tails are made of.

Waterside Ceremony 

Beachside Ceremony

Lush Garden Ceremony

Rural Splendor Ceremony

Luxurious Indoor Garden Ceremony

Gobo Lighted Ceremony Aisle

Circular Ceremony Seating

Follow MLM Worldwide Event Planning on Pinterest 

Modern, Luxurious and Magical Escort Card Inspiration

Hello Beauties!

I hope everyone had a great weekend.  I have been busy completing projects for an upcoming wedding I'm coordinating! I can't wait to share the pictures.

I have been looking for Modern, Luxurious and Magical inspiration for an escort card display and here are my favorite finds from Pinterest.  Be sure to Follow MLM Worldwide Event Planning on Pinterest for a daily dose of great inspiration.

Escort cards can be displayed in a traditional arrangement on a table with a show stopping centerpiece

One way to get a lot of bang out of your floral budget is to have the largest arrangement at the wedding on the escort card table.  It is the first thing guests will see before entering the actual reception so a large arrangement will make a lasting impression

Another great idea for the escort table is the edible escort card 

A miniature bottle of ketchup would be a great addition to a casual b-b-q.  

Bottled of soda adds a great pop of color to a bright, modern event.   

Stripped Lollipops in a green silk box adds a playful element to a stuffy black tie affair. 

A terra cotta pot of fresh herbs would make a wonderful edible favor for the guest to take home

Rustic inspired escort displays 

Table assignments etched onto vintage window panes is an unexpected update on the traditional display

A rusted wagon filled with wheat grass keeps the escort tags in order

A sunflower for each guest look amazing at a Summer wedding

A tiny bundle of Lavender would not only look beautiful but be fragrant as well

A gilded gold frame with rows of lace is a great blend way to display the escort cards.  The clothespins holding the cards to the lace can be glittered to add extra sparkle

A vintage key is a wonderful keepsake 

The Escort Card Display is a great way to add some personality into your event.  Incorporate something you love to do as a couple or showcase your wedding colors in an unexpected way.  For more escort card ideas visit my Pinterest Page! 

Did you have an unexpected escort card table? What are you planning on doing for your upcoming event? Please share your ideas, I would love to hear!

MLM Bachelorette Profile- Stephanie Thuss

Hello Beauties!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!  It's sprinkling here in Los Angeles so I hope everyone stays dry while bar hopping today.

To celebrate an amazing excuse for drinking green beer I am bringing you a great 

MLM Bachelorette Profile- Stephanie Thuss!!

Stephanie is such a sweet heart and is always so much fun to be around.  She met her fiance, Garrit Barth at "the shore" in Long Beach, CA. They quickly became friends and he pursued Stephanie until she finally agreed to be his girlfriend on June 13, 2007.  She describes Garrit as Outgoing, Athletic and Sweet!

Their proposal story is a perfect look inside their relationship- genuine and silly at the same time.  On August 13, 2011 Garrit was insisting Stephanie leave happy hour with a girlfriend so that they could get a paddle boarding session in.  She really wasn't in the mood but her friend helped persuade her to meet Garrit.  Once they hit the Canals of Naples and were making their way to the Bay, Garrit began with his speech, "You know how much I love you right?"  Stephanie was turning to answer with, "Yes, Of Course!", when she saw him down on one knee.. balancing on his paddle board, mind you.  His next words were "Will you marry me?"

Stephanie was so shocked, she thought he might really be pranking her! As she was paddling to turn her board to face him, he reached forward to hand her the ring.  Garrit stumbled and the ring splashed down, into the murky bay water with a loud kerplunk.  Stephanie was filled with every emotion- shock, confusion, joy.. but she thought to herself, "Well, I guess we have to go scuba diving now to go get my ring!"  At that moment Garrit's sister yelled from the colonnade, "You Dropped IT?!??"  At this point it finally clicked to Stephanie that this wasn't a prank at all.  Garrit then reached into his pocket and said, "Just kidding, here is your real ring."  It was attached to a bright orange buoy. After paddling to his family, they celebrated all night long drinking champagne while their close friends toasted the beautiful couple.

Stephanie will celebrate her last night as a single lady eating Yellowtail shashimi and drinking a Sailor Jerry and Coke. She regularly practices Birkham Yoga (and has the abs to prove it).  Steph and Garrit love to snuggle up and catch up on their biggest guilty pleasure- Jersey Shore!  If the happy couple has their way, they would be relaxing in fabulous Bora Bora in an over-water hut during their honeymoon.

Stephanie's Bachelorette Party must haves are House Music and a gorgeous Swimming Pool.  She is a Bottle Poppin' Bachelorette All The WAY!  Vegas better watch out!

Congratulations Stephanie and Garrit!! All of the best wishes for a fun-filled future together! 

Best Bridal Hair Combs

Hello Beauties!

The best bridal hair is soft and natural.  If you normally wear your hair down, then wear it down in loose waves or pulled back on one side.  You will feel most comfortable, meaning you will look most beautiful.  If you normally wear your hair pulled back in a low ponytail, then a soft chignon with texture will look luxurious and modern.  A jeweled comb or flower clip would easily work with both hairstyles and is easy to reposition during the night, if needed.  It is a separate piece from the veil so you can still keep that bit of magic on during the reception.  

Below are my favorite jeweled combs from various Etsy artists.  Once you enter the website search for bridal hair, bridal combs, jewel combs and a massive selection will be at your finger tips. 

Another option for a more organic look is a faux flower hair comb.  They are soft and romantic, without worry of wilting as the night goes on.  Plus, it makes a very special keepsake.  I love the assortment at Amy's Bridal Accessories.  All of the hair combs are hand made with fine silk fabric, luxurious goose feathers and magical pieces of vintage lace.  Their jewelry is spectacular as well.

(clockwise from top left: $165, $105, $115, $172)

Will you wear a hair comb? Do you prefer the Jeweled Combs or the Flower Clips? 

For more Bridal Hair Inspiration Follow me on Pinterest!

BHLDN

BHLDN (it's pronounced beholden) is the amazing bridal store from Anthropology.  It started as an online retailer last Valentine's Day and they opened their second store in Chicago on their one year anniversary, February 14, 2012.  The first store opened in Houston, TX earlier this year.

BHLDN shares the same modern, heirloom aesthetic that we love so much about Anthropology.  Luckily the online shop and store-fronts carry Wedding Gowns, Bridesmaid dresses, Accessories, Shoes and Decor.. Oh My!!

Visit their Fabulous Website for even more glamorous, art deco inspiration.

Inspiration- Grammy Awards 2012

Hello Beauties!

This year the Grammy's were more somber than usual.  I noticed a lot of black on the red carpet.  I personally love the SPARKLE! 

This year my best dressed was Kelly Osbourne.  I don't know why but I am loving her purple hair when it is so full and soft.  Her skin is glowing and the dress is beyond flattering.

(via)

Taylor Swift looks gorgeous in her gold, beaded gown.  Gwyneth Paltrow is beyond sleek and so modern.  The cut is perfection and her gold belt is perfect.  Taylor's bangs are right on trend and Gwyn's ponytail is so sleek. I can see either look walking down the aisle.

(via)

Two of my favorite voices were in very similar looks last night.  Carrie Underwood looked fresh and bright in a long sleeve white gown.  This dress would look amazing on a bold bride in an ultra modern setting.  Adele had the right amount of retro inspiration with her lush waves and red lips.  I thought the silhouette was so flattering on her body type.  A maid of honor or even a mother of the bride would look great in this style.

(via)

Last but definitely not least is Rhianna.  Her dress was simple, elegant and sexy.  Her hair is what made it look luxurious and modern.

(via)

What was your favorite look at the Grammy Awards this year?  Leave me a comment!

"She Said OUI"- Parisian Inspired Bachelorette Parties

There are few places on Earth as romantic as France so I wanted to showcase 3 Modern, Luxurious and Magical Bachelorette Parties with a Parisian Flair.  The events will range from Racy to Romantic to Cozy. 

Voulez vous coucher avec moi?

First will be a MLM Bottle Poppin' Bachelorette Party.  A Bottle Poppin Bachelorette Party can be quite racy so I decided to go with  a Moulin Rouge Theme.  A Hotel Suite at the Sofitel Los Angeles will be decorated in Red and Black, with Lace and Chiffon hanging every where, giving the room a Boudoir feel.  The guests will be asked to dress in their sexiest black dresses, while the Bride wears the color of seduction- RED! 

photo courtesy of thepleasureproject,org

Once the girl';s arrive they will be handed their signature drink of the evening a Lady Marmalade.  It is a Bright Red cocktail made with Strawberry Liquor.  Next it's time to pass out the Gift Bags to all of the ladies in attendance.  Each guest will be given a fluffy boa and sexy garter to wear out on the town.  Also included in each personalized silk drawstring bag will be a custom perfume from Ka Mil Yin. 

After noshing on Room Service the Ladies will be taken by Limo to "Hollywood Men". Once the exhilarating show is over they will dance the night away at their private VIP table.

Classy and Fabulous

The MLM Bachelorette that would prefer a calming party would fall in love with the Coco Chanel Inspired Roof Top party at the amazing Le Petite Ermitage in West Hollywood.  Soft Peach and Aqua would surround the Garden landscape with Black and White accents. 

Photo courtesy of thedailytruffle.com

When the ladies arrive they will be greeted with their choice of a Classy (Peach Bellini) or a

Fabulous (Champagne and Alize Cocktail).  The poolside cabanas will offer manicures and pedicures with Chanel's newest colors of the season.  Ka Mil Yin will also have a gorgeous table set up featuring their scented perfume oils.  The guests will be able to smell the different oils and create their own personalized blend to take home with them. 

Once everyone is relaxed a lunch of Soup, Salad and Quiche will be displayed.  The ladies will play a fun trivia game about the bride to be and offer their own advice on a lasting marriage.  As the guests depart they will be given a bottle of Chanel Nail Polish and a package of 4 delicious Macaroons from Bottega Louie.  

photo courtesy of birdhouseinteriors.com

French KISS  
A Honeymoon Inspired Slumber Party for the MLM Girls Night In Bachelorette.  This will be an overnight event at a private home, so the girl's can really let loose and not worry about traveling from place to place.  The home would be decorated in Grey and Purples with black and silver accents.  Images of the Eiffel Tower will surround the guests, as well as strings of twinkle lights.  You can't have a party honoring the City of Lights without Twinkle lights!

photo courtesy of hostessblog.com

A buffet of snacks, such as Cheese Plates, Crudites, Ham and Cheese Croissants and a Salad Bar, will be displayed all night to allow the ladies to eat at their own leisure.  The French KISS will be the signature cocktail and it will be a raspberry lemonade vodka cocktail and it will make you want to pucker up!

A Wine tasting will be held and the ladies will be able to vote on their favorite french wine.  A sommelier will be on hand to help the ladies understand the wide arrange of flavors and expand their own knowledge of wine.  Another activity set up for the ladies will be a beautiful Do It Yourself Fragrance Bar by Ka Mil Yin.  Weather you prefer citrus notes, or more floral, the amazing fragrance oils can be perfectly blended to suit your preference.

photo courtesy of www.chipandco.com

As the night progresses guests will have the option of playing racy games or settling in for a good romantic comedy.  And then of course the Midnight Dessert Bar will be the perfect ending to a Magical Night!

photo courtesy of bizbash.com