Around this time of year, we take note of all the things that we have collected and saved.  If you are like me, you start to donate boxes and bags of items to GoodWill and/or  The Salvation Army in order to prepare for the new year.  Here are a few ideas for the bride:

1. BravoBride- This website is made for “wedding only” items.  It is a place to buy or sell any new or pre-owned wedding items. (similar to craigslist, but specifically for wedding-related items)

2. Brides Against Breast Cancer- Making Memories Foundation’s primary fundraising branch is Brides Against Breast Cancer.  This organization accepts thousands of new and used wedding gowns, and sells them to brides in order to raise funds. These bridal gown events happen several times a year at various locations around the United States. These events provide brides-to-be with an opportunity to find their dream gown (at an incredible savings) while making wishes and dreams come true for women and men who are losing their fight against breast cancer.

3. Consignment Stores- Find a local consignment store, and sell your items there!  This is a great way to “be green” and “make a little green”. Another option would be something like PreOwnedWeddingDresses.  By posting it on this type of site, you are reaching people nationally instead of locally–however, there are fees in order to post your items.

4. Friends or Relatives- Someone always knows someone who is getting married.  Talk to your friends and family and see if they know couples who need wedding items.  Chances are… they need something that you have!

Happy New Year!! May 2010 be just as much fun as 2009… congratulations to all those who recently got engaged over the holidays!!

I have been working with the lovely Karrie Pyke of Karrie Pyke Designs and can I just say… *love*.  She did an amazing job, and I can’t thank her enough.  She took all my *special* notes and transformed them into this… Here is my new logo!!! Did I mention that she created a monogram for me as well?!?!?!  Tell me what you think!

Now the part that you have all been waiting for… what a beautiful couple (gorgeous not only on the outside,  but insanely beautiful on the inside). Melani and Michael were wonderful, truly genuine kind hearts.  Andy King Photography did an amazing job, with the help of his second shooter {Brett Alan Christlieb}. Andy and Brett were so much fun onsite– both of them are extremely talented. Can’t wait to team up again!

Not to get all “New Moon” on you… but this could be a scene from the movie!  The lighting is awesome. Am I a little lame for saying that… I hear they get married in #3.

*favorite photo*

Beautiful Couple

*another fav*

haha…

The wedding party for Melani and Michael’s wedding was so much fun! They were all in good spirits, and had a great attitude toward the entire day. Rehearsal went *very* smooth, and everyone was extremely appreciative.  I couldn’t have asked for a better group!  And they definitely know how to have a good time!!

Awesome group of guys!

Ceremony site, overlooking the water- can we say amazing!?!?

Everyone had their own *special* order…

At one point they grabbed a surfer passing by… *loved it*

Thank you Andy King Photography!

Melani and Michael had a beautiful outdoor ceremony overlooking the La Jolla beaches at the Robert Paine Scripps Forum.  Michael (perpetual surfer) and Melani (island gal) are the perfect match.  This beautiful couple incorporated several personal details, which personalized the event *love love love*. Melani envisioned an island-themed tropic oasis…. and it was perfect! The entire wedding party made my day exciting, and they definitely kept me on my toes. It was impossible to ignore the love that this group had for the wedding couple.  I became instant friends with Melani when I witnessed the overwhelming kindness (and thoughtfulness) that she demonstrated to her family and friends (and Michael is the same way!).  Melani was a joy to work with; she was detailed and organized– what every coordinator dreams of!! Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Armstrong! Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your big day!! May your marriage be filled with love, laughter… and the BEACH!

Here are a few details:

Contact Donna if you are interested in this venue

I loved these boutonnieres. Diane Reichenbach, Whimsey Florals, did a wonderful job with the Snake Grass. I thought it was a perfect balance of feminine and masculine.

These escort card holders were hand-crafted by Melani’s family– sent over from the Islands. Wow! This was the perfect touch to their tropical oasis theme.

Thank you to all the wonderful vendors who made this possible:

1. Venue: Robert Paine Scripps Forum- Donna Stout
2. Caterer: Culinary Concepts- Gina Eliason
3. Florals: Whimsey Florals- Diane Reichenbach
4. Photographer: Andy King Photography
5. DJ: DJ Guy- Nicholas Witzler
6. Cake: Edelweiss Bakery
7. Officiant: Reverend Powers
8. Transportation: Arti Limosine