Ashley & Dustin - engaged!

We had the opportunity to coordinate Dustin's sisters wedding, Sarah, last year. Dustin & Ashley booked us for their wedding in May of next year. What gorgeous couple! And I can definitely see the family resemblance between Dustin and Sarah. Check our Sarah & Nick's client page & see what you think. These pictures are courtesy of the lovely & talented - Steph Carson.

Jenny & Todd - 12.29.2007

Still catching up! Jenny & Todd's client page is now up! I love the vibrant blue. Lindsey was lead coordinator on this Dayton wedding. Pictures courtesy of Sandra Reed Photography. To learn more about Jenny & Todd's wedding including comments from the bride & other vendor selections visit their client page.

Jennifer & Steve - 8.31.08

Photos from Jennifer & Steve's Labor Day weekend wedding. Jennifer & Steve are friends of our other clients - Andrea & Drew. Lindsey was lead coordinator for the day - so sad I missed it. What an amazing Sunday it was. These fabulous photos are courtesy of the talented Neysa Ruhl. for even more photos, check out her blog or the slideshow here.

Leah & Matt 07.05.08 - The video

From the talented Jason Merkt of Iconography. It's always a pleasure Jason!

http://iconographystudios.com/welty.htm

Rachel & Dan's Client Page

Rachel & Dan's client page is up! Thanks to Heather Claypool for sending me the images for their collage so quickly. Rachel & Dan - it was truly a pleasure to work with you and your families. Tell Avery & Peyton I said hi!

http://www.cincyeventplanning.com/rachelanddan.html

updating our site

I'm finally updating our website. Just a few minor changes - adding some new vendor recommendations & updating our client page. I still have more weddings to add, but the major changes are finished!

Rachel & Daniel Burke - 10.11.08

What a gorgeous, warm day we had for this small, intimate garden wedding. Rachel & Dan currently live in Georgia, so we didn't meet in person until about a week before the big day. It didn't make a difference though - we pulled together a rustic fall look for the reception & a ceremony in the round at Vasey Garden in Mt. Airy. I can't wait to see more photos - but here is a sneak peek from Columbus photographer, Heather Claypool's blog. Another wonderful team of vendors made this day flawless including: Joe Griffin from Steve Bender, My Personal Gourmet catering, and Jerry's Cheesecakes.

Congratulations Stacey & Joe

Stacey was one of the most laid back & happy brides I've had this year. Even with a forecast of showers & cold weather, Stacey was fine in our last conversation before the big day. The weather was gorgeous - not a drop of rain in sight. The ceremony was beautiful - including a unity candle ceremony that included each & every guest - so unique and personal. The reception was a fun-filled evening full of dancing & laughing. Stacey's parents hit the dance floor & I'm pretty sure they never left. Well, except Dad to wipe off all of the sweat! It was an honor to work with such an amazing couple & family! I met Stacey at another clients' wedding last year - Lindsey & Bob. It was great to see Lindsey & Bob there last night - both were in the bridal party. And Linds - your new 'do is fabulous!

I had a great team of vendors as well - Dan from Lifetime Video, Joe from Steve Bender productions (who kept the dance floor packed!), Amanda Egan from Amanda Egan photography. Julie from Petals n Glass created beautiful centerpieces & bouquets. The staff at Aston Oaks was great - the banquet captain, Lindsey, did a great job. Oh & my first taste of Tres Belle cakes - delicious!

Lots of catching up to do!

I have a ton of weddings to post - so be on the lookout this week & weekend for new pics. Also be on the lookout for an updated clients page as well!

Ashlyn Elizabeth Bayer

This post is a little late but my associate, Lindsey, and her husband, Matt welcomed Ashlyn Elizabeth to the world on September 23rd @ 5:13pm - 7lb 5oz. This gorgeous picture was taken by Krysia Photography. Congratulations Lindsey & Matt!

Leah & Matt 07.05.08

I spent so much time with Leah, Matt & their families during the planning process... I couldn't help but feel a little sad it was all coming to and end. Leah & Matt are a fabulous couple and have amazing family & friends. I couldn't wait to see photos from the day so I emailed Reece Booth to get some sneak peeks for the blog - and he sent some great photos - and one of me "in action" fastening Leah's shoes. Reece is so talented & fun - I love working with him. Check out more of his work here.

Other great vendors we worked with... Abbie Clark of Clark Graphic Design, Courtenay Lambert, Heather & Denette at the Madison, Amanda at Sphire Elegance and Jason Merkt of Iconography.

Amanda & Zach - 07.05.08

Amanda & Zach were married on July 5th in the Rose Garden at Spring Grove. The day was sunny & warm, and the ceremony was beautiful. Here are a couple of pics from the amazing Steph Carson .

to see more photos - check out Steph's blog

the reason for my lack of blogging...

Brady Patrick Schmidt arrived June 1st, 2008

He's six weeks old now and nearly 11lbs & over 22" long. Really I'm blessed with such a great baby & his sisters adore him. My first weekend back to weddings was 4th of July - I'll post about those weddings soon. A HUGE thanks to Lindsey who handled all of the remaining May & June weddings for me!

Interested in event planning?

We are looking for a few good interns to assist with day-of activities for weddings in July, August, September & October. It's a rare opportunity to gain valuable experience and build your resume. This could also turn into a long-term opportunity for you with Cincy Event Planning. If you are interested... please contact us info@cincyeventplanning.com - include a cover letter in the body of your email & attach a resume. We look forward to hearing from you!

Congrats Alison & Drew!

I stole this photo from Alison & Drew's Flickr account. I just love how happy she looks. Due to the pregnancy - Lindsey had to fly solo on this wedding. I've heard everything was wonderful and I can't wait to see photos.

Alison was such a fun, laid back bride during the planning process - yet she is very detailed oriented & organized! She's even helped us at an event.

Congrats Alison & Drew - I can't wait to see photos of your fabulous day!

One Year Ago today...

I was a bride... and never felt more beautiful in my life. A year later, 40 weeks and 1 day pregnant (yes I am counting days) I feel like an elephant. But it was truly a fabulous day. We laughed & giggled & smiled through the entire ceremony - I couldn't have asked for a more perfect ceremony. I married my best friend & he is simply wonderful!


Kev and I aren't celebrating until after this little guy arrives, but I had to reminisce with a few photos - courtesy of Rachel at Rocket Tree Photography

Sneak Peek - Steph & Nathan AHR photos

From Tracy's blog... I can't wait to see the rest!!!! You would never believe it was raining earlier in the day. I had a blast at this reception & hope to work with Tracy again soon. Here are some of my favorites, but visit Tracy's blog for more photos!

Sarah & Brian's photos

Sarah & Brian ended up with a gorgeous day at Laurel Court. It was our first time working with the venue - what a unique and beautiful location & excellent staff. You can view Sarah & Brian's photos taken by White Lotus Studios by clicking here.

Congratulations Nicole & John!

Last night was perfect. I don't think I've ever seen my friend look so stunning and happy! And I was able to catch up with a couple of my favorite vendors/friends - Chris from VP DJ Service and Reece Booth (photography). Reece had some fun stories about the male half of the bridal party! I can't wait to see how the photos turn out. If they are 1/2 as good as the engagement photos - Nicole will be ecstatic! Here are a couple of pics from last night.

and oh how things change in a year... i think it's funny how we look like a jigsaw puzzle!

It's a rare thing anymore....

When I get to attend a wedding strictly as a guest! And this is the second one this year... My very good friend Nicole is getting married today. I am so happy the sun came out for her. I helped her book a few vendors and gave her other recommendations in the planning process, but tonight I just get to enjoy myself!

Here's a pic of the gorgeous Nicole & me from last year.

Steph & Nathan's AHR

Have I mentioned how much I love this couple? They were a joy to work with all day. Not to mention they chose fantastic vendors. Mollie from Brideface did an exceptional job - as always and the cakes from Patricia's and Bonbonerie were simply beautiful and perfect.

A special thanks to Brian Douglas, AJ from Party Pleasers and the staff at the Savannah Center for helping us pull together the Jamaica video. With a little teamwork - everything worked out well.

And Tracy - from Pictures by Tracy - you are fabulous. I can't wait to see the photos from last night.

Congrats again Steph & Nathan! I hope last night was exactly what you had hoped for!

I admit it, I've been stalking her blog....

Michelle McKibben's blog that is. Steph & Nathan were married in Jamaica and took Michelle with them to capture their day & do a TTD session that couldn't ever take place in Cincinnati. And I was so happy to see she posted them today! Here's a sneak peek!

How hot is she??? Here's a link to some additional photos on Michelle's blog

http://michellemckibben.blogspot.com/2008/05/jamaica-pictures.html

Congratulations Steph & Nathan!

Stephanie & Nathan are getting married today - in Jamaica. They've hired CEP to help at their AHR (at-home reception) to be held at the Savannah Center on Friday May 16th. Did I mention they aren't arriving in Cincy until nearly midnight on the 15th??? I can't wait to see the photos from the ceremony & the TTD (trash the dress) session.

Here is a link to the couple's wedding website. I can't wait to pull of the details together.

Congratulations Andrea & Drew!

Andrea & Drew are tying the knot this evening in Hyde Park followed by a celebration at the Hilton Netherlands Hall of Mirrors. Andrea & Drew have impeccable taste, every detail is accounted for. I can't wait to see how it all comes together!

For a sneak peek at the couple & how they met view their wedding page on the knot - Andrea & Drew.

Consider stylish "green" alternatives - Part one

Yes, the go green movement has made it's mark on the wedding industry. Many brides are looking for ways to incorporate eco chic into their celebrations. I'm going to share some great ideas with you over several entries. The first of which will cover ideas for invites, programs & place cards.

Look for the following key terms when considering your options:
- Use 100% post-consumer recycled paper
- Try alternative fibers including hemp, kenaf or bamboo
- Ask if soy based ink is available

Check out the folks at Greenfield Paper - they've made paper from wildflower seeds, yes seeds! These are so environmentally friendly you can actually PLANT the paper & grow flowers when you are finished!

Ideas for placecards/holders
- Look to nature - consider using leaves with a ribbon, river rocks, or even fruit for placecards. You can use a sharpie or even a stamp to personalize these natural options.
- Collect everyday items like corks as placecard holders & use recycled paper to print the guests names, cut a slit in the cork & you are finished. Save these after the event and make a unique corkboard or trivet to use.


Other great eco-friendly paper resources:
Twisted Limb Paper
Of the Earth
InviteSite
Formal-Invitations (great for plain DIY options)

Two Weddings Yesterday

We had Sarah & Brian's wedding at Laurel Court during the afternoon and then I rushed off to a good friend's wedding that evening. Kevin, my husband, was in the wedding so it was really a busy day for both of us!

Here are a few pictures from our friends' wedding - Congratulations Becky & Eric. It's been a long time coming!

The happy couple!

Kev and the Groom - they've been friends for 20+ years

Our daughter Gracie with Eric's daughter Kelsey (the flower girl)

Congratulations Sarah & Brian!

I think we have a beautiful day in store for us!!! I can't wait to get to Laurel Court & see you both! I hope you are as relaxed & excited as you have been in our last few meetings.

To learn a little more about Brian & Sarah - you can see her bio on the knot by clicking here.

New location this weekend....Laurel Court

Well, new to us anyway. Our bride and groom this weekend - Sarah & Brian - are having their ceremony at Laurel Court in College Hill. It is a gorgeous historic estate. The perfect location for their intimate ceremony & reception. Every room is unique, restored and gorgeous. The atrium is perfect for an indoor ceremony and the gardens would be a beautiful outdoor backdrop for any nuptials. Take a few minutes and visit the Laurel Court website to see some photos & learn a little Cincinnati history too! http://www.laurelcourt.com/

Leave it to one of our brides...

Leave it to our brides to keep us on track! I just received an email from one of our July brides telling me how bad I am at keeping up with blogging! Tamara - you are so right. So this post is just for you!

Tamara & Jeremy are one of the most adorable couples I've had the pleasure of working with. Their July wedding will be my first one back after having the baby. I can't wait. I thought I'd share an e-pic (courtesy of Sandra Reed Photography), her creative DIY save-the-date, and her killer green shoes! I love them!

Outdoor Weddings

In Cincinnati we are lucky to have so many fabulous parks & outdoor settings for weddings & receptions. I'm sure many of you have considered Alms, Ault, the French House, etc. for your location. While these are often gorgeous events when the weather cooperates, they definitely come with their fair share of potential issues. I found this questionnaire on the outdoor wedding guide website & I thought I'd share it with you. It might be helpful for anyone considering outdoors vs indoors.

Is an outdoor wedding for you?

DO plan an outdoor wedding if...
- You have a special attachment to a particular outdoor place.
- You enjoy spontaneity and drama.
- You're organized and able to plan for a variety of scenarios.
- You want to set your celebration apart from other weddings, perhaps even your own previous weddings if one or both of you have been married previously.
- You want to blend religious traditions in a flexible, non-denominational setting.
- You want to increase the amount of time available to share with loved ones by holding both your ceremony and reception at a single location.
- Your wedding ceremony will be part of a multi-day wedding event.
- You want to create a wedding celebration that is unique, personal, distinctive and memorable.

DON'T choose an outdoor wedding if...
- You hate surprises.
- You will be horribly disappointed if the weather is uncooperative and everything does not go according to your plan.
- You need or want to marry in a month when weather conditions are likely to be less than optimal at the location where you will wed
- You aren't adept at handling stress and making decisions.
- The outdoor environment you prefer will not be comfortable for your invited guests.

Trash the Dress - The Video

Trash the Dress (TTD) sessions made their way to Cincinnati sometime last year...with some phenomenal results. I know at least one our destination brides, Stephanie, is planning on a TTD session in Jamaica - and I can't wait to see those photos!

But what about a TTD video??? Steve from Glass Eye Video recently recorded a TTD session while Simply Timeless photography snapped photos. He shared it with me this morning & it's posted on his blog. My favorite part is near the end - when the flowers hit the water & the dress dragging through the water. The whole thing reminds me of a music video - I'm sure the bride felt like a movie star the entire shoot! Check it out....

http://glasseyevideo.com/blog/2008/04/08/trash-the-dress/

And for those of you who haven't seen TTD photos, check out this site:
http://www.trashthedress.com/

Steph Carson Giveaway

Attn 2009 brides... Steph Carson is giving away a wedding package for one of her 2009 brides. All of the details are listed on her site. If you haven't booked a photographer yet check her out.

She's brilliant, talented and FUN. You can see her work on our clients page & about us page. Or of course on her website www.stephcarson.com

One of my favorite new sites

We're doing our best to go green in our house. It's like pulling teeth sometimes to get my husband to go along, but he's coming around. Here's a relatively new site that launched that I've enjoyed reading. Check it out. I love the resuable bag links - so cute & good for the environment too!

http://www.greenmommyguide.com/

Worst blogger ever

I am officially the worst blogger. Actually you probably have to actually post in your blog to be the worst blogger. Now I'm rambling.


So let me catch you up to what's going on at CEP lately:


I'm pregnant with a little boy due May 26th - one day before my one year anniversary!

Lindsey, my associate, is due in October with her first.


We're busy preparing for the busy wedding season & managing to have a blast. I can't wait to share photos & stories in the upcoming months!

For now, here's a pic of my ever expanding belly. This is nearly two months ago now at a Valentine's Day dinner at church. I guess I need some new photos.