Christmas Carats

I could troll the internet watching proposals over and over...regular  people. celebrities; it doesn't really matter. There is something so wonderful about the tornado of emotions, expressions, and reactions, that just make me feel good. I love watching joy in the making.

Ambiance and...the internet are all a buzz with the most adorable engagement moments celebrities are eager to share with their fans and followers.

The former America's Next Top Model and Actress, Eva Marcille is getting hitched to Lawyer/Advocate, Mike Sterling. Eva shared joy via IG on Christmas Day with a simple caption, "Is said YES!!!!  #ambianceadores how raw and authentic a share this is, no filters, no staging, no stylist, just pure love. Congratulations Eva Diva!

Another favorite moment comes from IG: InsideWeddings with a super emotional proposal video from the Big Bang Theory's Katie Cuoco. The actress will wed professional equestrian Karl Cook. This will be an encore wedding for Cuoco but a first time down the aisle for Cook. In the video, Cuoco (overcome with emotion) announces ""we're engaged in the video clip before being reminded, she hasn't said yes yet. It is the great example of  how powerful and emotional love is for us all. Want to see the waterworks? CLICK HERE!

Under a tunnel of Christmas lights, the "Dear Future Husband" artist, Meghan Trainor said yes to the former Spy Kid actor, Daryl Sabara. Witness her tearful yes, then stay tuned to see her hug family and friends nearby, all set to the tune of Trainors' song, Hopeless Romantic. It's just beautiful.

Love is as authentic as it gets. Wishing these ladies a lifetime of Happiness!



#evamarcille  #katiecuoco #meghantrainer #celebrityengagements #celebrity weddings #experienceambiance #northernvirginiaweddings #weddingplanner

Merry & Married

Merry Time Holiday Card
5 x 7 card, Foil Stamp Flat Print

I really get excited thinking about how many of our #alwaysambiance couples are celebrating their first holiday seasons as married couples. It is a really special and exciting time for newlyweds. Creating new traditions, decorating first homes, hosting family/friends for the first time, it truly is the most wonderful time of the year.

A couple's first holiday card shouldn't be any less special. Your seasons greetings are a great way to reflect on and refresh the memory of a very special time you celebrated this year...your wedding day.

It is also a great excuse to share more fabulous photos from your special day.  Use a traditional wedding portrait or shoot for something that shows how good Forever After is treating you, either way, it's not too late to personalize your holiday wishes from the new Mr & Mrs.

Feast your eyes on our Newlywed Designs HERE.

Or get more inspiration from our selection of Holiday Cards HERE. 

#ambianceinvites you to learn more. The Be Merry Holiday Card is a 5 x 7 flat card with a foil stamped flat print. Price includes your choice of colored envelopes and can be ready to ship in 3-5 working days.

For more questions, post a comment below.

Are You Thinking Outside of the Bun? Taco Bells Are Ringing!

Tiny or Micro Weddings are the hot new trend. I will not lie…I’m even making plans to get in on this ultimate intimate wedding experience in 2018.  A tiny wedding is typically a super small wedding experience. Think elevated courthouse. Micro weddings are all about adventure and intimacy. It’s the ultimate balancing act between embracing ones authenticity while mixing in a few traditional wedding elements….but only the pieces you really love. Like the dress, bouquet, and cake.

It’s about 2 hours (including ceremony and after-pictures) and only includes a maximum of 15-20 people. Many include an officiant and a photographer in an incredible and/or very personal (often) alternative location.

{I'm already working on my list of incredible “little known” locales for DC and Northern Virginia.}

I cannot wait to get my creative hands all over one, pulling together my favorite and most talented vendor friends to cater to the private and quirky couples of the District. For as relatively new as tiny weddings are to the masses, Taco Bell is hashtag winning with their first Vegas wedding. That’s right, a wedding…at Taco Bell.

Taco Bell has managed to take the cake with its new Vegas Cantina. It all started with their “For the Love of Tacos” contest, an all-expense paid wedding winner and these awesome photos. Now they offer a wedding package starting at $600.

*On a side note, this is also proof of why you invest in a good photographer; they can make anything look breathtaking.

Taco Bell

Cake anyone? Cinnabon Delight. Why, yes, it is true to the Taco Bell brand as well.  

Taco Bell

Oh you thought there wouldn't be a something blue too? No Bell wedding could be complete without twisted freezes for two. Talk about a signature drink!

Cheers to the happy couple, married 6.26.17!

Taco Bell

Would you, could you, have a tiny wedding? Where would it be? Post a comment below. 

Wedding Day Sneak Peek: Cross Over To Cronauer

This past weekend was EVERYTHING it was supposed to be; beautiful weather, a stylish groom, a gorgeous bride, and literally, a circle of love around them. Virginia really is for lovers!

An intimate indoor ceremony, followed by a tented evening of dinner and dancing, on a perfectly tempered Virginia night is the magic memories are made of.  The love and light that showed up for this couple is one for the books. The plan, pops of pink that really allow the clean beauty of greenery to shine. I'd say mission accomplished.

Fabulous is bound to happen when your artist bridesmaids bring their own chalk!

And of course, a stolen moment to absorb it all.

The only hiccup of the evening is where it pays to have the Ambiance team in your corner. The escort cards were mistakenly printed without the guest dinner selection on them. Meaning, the wait staff doesn't know who ordered what. My team and I simply stepped in with the master list, and although it took some extra time, directed the waitstaff to each individual guest at every table.

I say it all the time, in all of your planning, there will still be instances you simply couldn't have planned for. This was a potential fire, that was snuffed out before it had a chance to start. The couple nor their parents ever had to leave their seats to handle the matter, all because of their decision to have, at minimum, a Day Of Coordinator.

One of my favorite moments...well people...The Father of the Bride. He owned his emotions and it was so raw and beautiful. It's the stuff you can't plan, fabricate, or capture again. On Wedding Day, our goal is to allow everyone to just be in the moment. During their father/daughter dance, he danced with  A so lovingly, held her so close, seeming to be taking in every breath of his little girl, now a married woman. I tear up just writing about it. It was beyond special.

The last detail, I'll share is probably one of the most authentic moments of the evening, literally, a circle of love. This moment was not planned, it just happened. Guests joined arm in arm, looking at lifetime of love in the making. Goosebumps, I tell ya, goosebumps.

I mean seriously, could there be any better way to end the evening?  The Cross over to Cronauer was such a successful, beautiful journey of emotion and joy. I am so lucky to have played a small part in the joining of two really cool families, in what I am sure to be, a long lasting love story for A + R. Now do you see how Forever After never gets old?

There are three other really special moments I won't dare to mention just yet. These are all photos I was able to snap during the day on my phone. I can not wait to see the finished professionally captured story laid out by one Stephanie Dee. Which means, amazing is still to come.


Our Amazing Dream Team:
Day Of Coordinator: Ambiance Special Events
Venue/Catering: Inn At Vint Hill
Photographer: Stephanie Dee Photography
Florists: Flower Gallery 
Cake: Gateau Distinction Cakes
Music: Dominion Wedding Entertainment
Transportation: Camelot Cars


#northernvirginiaweddings #virginiaweddings #virginiabrides #misstomrs 

Local Love: Out And About in Manassas VA

Dawn & I catching a quick "Us"ie

I was thrilled and overjoyed to gather with some amazing women entrepreneurs and celebrate one genuine soul...Dawn Gardner of DG Photography. No more shuffling all over the DMV for meetings for this girl. She has moved on up...to a studio in downtown Manassas.                  

Dawn's soft opening was a delightfully intimate evening with delectable cupcakes and macaroons (my favorite food groups) from Sweet Pink Bakery, meeting new professionals and catching up with a few old ones. There is something about driven, positive, encouraging women that is just good food for my soul. It invigorates and refreshes me deep from within.

I am so fortunate to do what I love and love what I do; to continuously find myself surrounded and encouraged with opportunities for growth; to learn about the purpose and missions of other women trying to build their empires from kitchen counters while juggling wife/mom hats. I am blessed to be able to offer my encouragement and support by doing what I can, when I can.

This is what makes being an entrepreneur worth every late night, every blog post,  every anxiety, every failure, and every restart. DG Photography Studio is confirmation that hard work and dedication can manifest dreams to reality. I am so overjoyed for her. And I am hopeful for every woman's dream that was there to celebrate. 

   


#weddingplanner #virginiaweddings #virginiaweddingplanner #dayofcoordinator #dgphotography #weddingphotography #eventdesign #weddinginvitations #northernvirginia #weddingvendor #woodbridgeva #manassasva #occoquanva 

How to say NO kids at your wedding

Ambiance Real Wedding
Robert E Holley Productions 

Whether or not to have kids at the wedding is a big decision! It has become more common for couples  to decide against having children at their celebrations. Some couples are even forgoing a flower girl and ring bearer as part of the wedding party. A few Ambiance couples shared that meal costs for kids is one factor for the decision; but also not worrying about censored music, accidents with alcohol, or taking over the dance floor, as others reasons. 

What I hear them saying is that parents don't always do a great job of parenting during a wedding. But that is another story for another day. 

So how do you say it? How do you say no thank you to children for your big day? 

TECH-NI-CALLY, it is poor etiquette to print "No Children" or "Adults Only" on your invite. One should simply address the invitation to the person or persons being invited. For instance, if your formal invitation is addressed to Mr and Mrs John Doe, then it is for grown ups only. Addressing an invitation to The Doe Family or Mr and Mrs Doe, John and Sarah Doe, would indicate that the entire family is invited.

The proper way to handle a guest that has mistakenly RSVP'd for more persons than the number you've allowed, is for the wedding host ( you or a parent) to call, gently remind them the invite was only for (insert number or names), that you hope this isn't too much of an inconvenience and hope they'll still be able to attend; but understand if they can not. 

Again, I say this is proper etiquette. Twerk and Binge-watch are also words that have been recently added to the dictionary, so I get it when you roll your eyes because it seems like another hassle... I know. The etiquette is truly centered in knowing the guests you are inviting. You should know and be decently familiar with your guest list. Being able to pick up the phone shouldn't be awkward.

Clearly, you can see how we've evolved into printing decrees for all to read and obey. Frankly, in the words of Sweet Brown..."Ain't nobody got time for that!" I tell my clients the proper way and allow them to decide for themselves. The Ambiance bride is typically a working one, so I understand and support her choice for having fifteen less phone calls on her to do list.

Printed or not, if no kids in the right choice for your wedding day, just be prepared to stand firm in that choice. The big girl panties must be pulled up tight...like spanx...no exceptions! Understanding fully that it may mean a near and dear friend/family member may not be able to make it. Don't make this decision lightly, because the only thing worse would be to allow even one person an exception, when others made the sacrifice. There will be whispers...and shaming. 

For more advice sent to your inbox, subscribe in the sidebar to the right =>.  

#weddingadvice #weddinginspiration #howto #askambiance # virginiaweddings #virginiaweddingplanner #dayofcoordinator

#AuthenticallyAmbiance: Bridal Show Prep

Marketing Materials...Booth Design...Giveaways...Oh My!

We are about a month away until the Fort Belvoir Bridal Show. That means a calculated to-do list about a mile long for me. I prepare for bridal shows with great intention. I choose the Fort Belvoir show because it is smaller and allows me the opportunity to actual talk and address concerns of passersby. Year after year, it seems to really pay off for me, more so than the larger shows.

The end of my 2016 was intense self-reflection training. Through a couple Instagram business challenges, I managed to finally focus on defining and understanding my ideal client. I set big, clear cut, manageable goals. I also added on services like invitations and personalized gifts. I updated our Full Service package to include much more. Heck of the way to end a year, I know.

In a nutshell, all of these things need to be present and make an impression at this year's bridal show.

Decision...decisions...

Yesterday, I ordered a new invitations album, so bride-to-be's have something to touch, hold, feel and ask questions about regarding our invitations and accessories affiliation with Carlson Craft. I generally promote the on-line boutique but I haven't found that photos of invitations nor lip service have captured the attention of the bride-to-be.

I have designed to give away a personalized pillow to one lucky couple for subscribing and inviting Ambiance into their inbox monthly. It truly IS one of my new favorite things! I am totally obsessed with this First Date, Yes Date, Best Date personalized pillow design. The winner will get to choose the color. I think this is also a great gift idea for mothers and maids in attendance, plus it shows off a few ways we love our personalized gifts affiliation with Thirty-One and how we work it for weddings.

I generally do not like the large table that comes with traditional bridal show set-ups. It cuts off access to interaction if you stand behind that thing. But I do need to showcase one or two of our non-floral signature centerpieces, now included in our Full-Service package. More than anything, I've got to show and drive home the fact that you get more when you book with Ambiance.



Finally, I think I'll have a banner made. Something slim but tall. This isn't something I've used in the past but I want to make sure that if I'm engaged in conversation, something else still has access to the same message. The banner can't just be the logo either. I think it has to encompass everything I'm highlighting in the booth.

Looks like I've got my work cut out for me.  The banner design will provide tricky but I'm looking forward to nailing this challenge with subtle, sophistication that is Ambiance.




#thrityone #thirtyonegifts #virginiaweddingplanner #dayofcoordinator #weddinginvitations #weddinggifts #bridalshow #bridal fair #weddingshows #ido #love #engaged #mstomrs #wedding #authenticallyambiance

Pardon My French: No Bull...Buy Her A Bag!

1. Make-Up Bag 
2. Tissues
3. Phone Charger
4. Phone
5. Change of Shoes
6. Bobby Pins
7. Evening Bag
8. Deodorant
9. Lotion
10. Curling Iron 

Just a few things any bridesmaid is likely to have on her person for the day of your wedding. These are single bridesmaids, of course, because women with children know, a mom, isn't getting away with a evening bag. 

To my point...depending on where you and the maids get ready, she'll be traveling with a minimum of ten items to support you and keep her glamorous look for an endless number of hours. She needs a bag to put it all in. More importantly, as your wedding planner, I need her to have a bag to put it all in. THE most organized wedding days have order and attention to detail, through and through. 

Zip Top Utility Tote

Your maids are no exception. From ceremony to reception; photos and everything in between, she will have the items. She will need these items. And I will have to help her with each transition you make throughout the day. When the glam squad arrives to the venue, the very first question typically asked has nothing to do with you...the bride. Instead it is, "where can we put our stuff". Stuff?!?! 

The child in me wants to shout "not it" and take a step back like a second grader ready to play tag. The sophisticated professional in me knows better.  Aside from my standard tasks of executing your wedding details and timeline, I must also help your wedding party keep up with their $#*!. They look to me to know where it is, when they can go get it, and where it will be while they eat...dance...party! 

I can be honest with you, ALL phones (that are not mine) look the same to me. We may as well add chargers in too. Soooooo no, I don't remember what your phone looks like...or where you just had it. Hell, we just met...like yesterday. And when the bar finally closes at the end of the night, finding misplaced lip gloss and/or phone chargers, is comparable to searching for  a needle in an very beautiful, well designed haystack. 

Let's not do this anymore. The best and most fluid weddings I've assisted with, each maid has a bag. Something I can line up against any wall, in any room, and know that they are all accounted for, at a glance. 

All-In Organizer

#ambianceadores The All-In Organizer from Thirty-One Gifts. It is one of the best multipurpose bags for this very use. Not too big...not too structured. It's perfect! Plus, you don't have to worry about if it is her style to use as a purse after the wedding because it's a small tote...she can use it for literally anything. The kids, car, work, closet, farmer's market...whatever!

What is important is that it will get her through wedding day with ease.  All of her things in an easily identifiable/coordinated bag that can even hold her favor AND bouquet at the end of the night. Can't think of a better wedding gift that serves so may purposes. 

Mathematically speaking...

Less Worry = Less Questions = Less Fuss and ultimately equals more focus on YOU and your needs from your maids and myself. So how about it? Let's get shopping. Shop the catalog for the All-In Organizer, only $20 (w/o personalization), HERE. 

#thirtyonegifts #personalizedgifts #wedding #inspiration #personalization #bridesmaidsgifts #weddingpartygifts #weddingplanner #bride #groom #ido #love

#AlwaysAmbiance The Winston's First Anniversary

Cake truffles from NYC, a hashtag, and Uber Black Car as wedding transportation; 

the Winston's ooze what it means to be young, in love, and in the city! 

Their journey to Forever After is one that proves life is better together and can whether any storm. Oh yes...Hurricane Joaquin made its way to the Atlantic Coast the week of their union. Although we had to Plan B our cocktail hour due to wind and rain, love had an agenda of its own and their Ever After would NOT be denied.  

Their day was the perfect balance of tears,

...and turn up! 

It really resonated in my heart when Patrice made the decision to have her mother walk her down the aisle. This is something I had done at my own wedding and is still one of my most cherished life moments.

But the details...so many truly personal touches made their entire event an experience for us all.

Patrice and Andre decided on an event design that would keep guests talking, mixing and mingling all night long, ensuring no two guest tables were alike. When one person hates cake, naturally a color coordinated dessert buffet yeilds the perfect compromise. Passed love notes, surprise gifts, formal attire, live music...I could have their wedding every day.

I love learning just how big, deep, and wide love is. Every wedding is my favorite because you've allowed me in to your soft place. You've allowed me to learn about who you are and what love means and looks like to you. This is why Forever After never gets old. It is why I pray your love is everlasting, why I pray we will always be connected because of it.

Always Appreciated, Always Loved is what being #AlwaysAmbiance is all about. Thank you for allowing me to see you Patrice and Andre. Happy Anniversary...may the force be with you.

Wedding Plans made Even Easier

Ambiance is expanding...again!

In 2015, we adding invitations and wedding accessories from Carlson Craft to our repertoire in an effort to streamline the wedding planning process for our clients. Our idea was to maximize convenience and efficiency.

Recently, I've fallen in love with a utility tote that I simply can't live without from Thirty-One Gifts. It helps me keep organized while promoting the sophistication of my business brand. My light bulb moment came when a client wanted to talk options for wedding party gifts. Thirty-one offers various ways to gift, organize, and personalize your life.

Wedding or Christmas Gift for the Newlyweds!
https://www.mythirtyone.com/1858974

When your life involves a wedding, I can tell you, the best and most organized Day-Of's are the ones where the bridesmaids each have a tote (usually with their name) to keep up with their cell phone, chargers, make-up bag, and extra shoes. My staff and I line them up on a wall in a safe room and the maids know exactly where to retrieve their things. And no panic calls at the end of the night, asking if we've found...insert expensive, irreplaceable item here...

Best of all, they are gifts people will use over and over in their daily life. And yes, there are a few great options for the guys too.

Gift For Your Maids...only $10.
https://www.mythirtyone.com/1858974

I think Thirty-One products are a perfect fit for Ambiance; endless options for personalized gifts and home decor to welcome you to Forever After.

Already, love Thirty-One? Host a registry party for the products you love.

New to Thirty-One? Stay tuned to our page for upcoming events/specials or request to join our FB group: #AmbianceAdores XXXI.

Cheers to New Beginnings, friends...Ambiance Special Events and Thirty-One. It's the reason our couple's spend more time together and less time in meetings!

Hello Friday!

Will #TGIF ever get old? I don't think so. Happy Friday Friends!

What started as an excuse to catch up and spend time with a girlfriend turned into "stamp camp". We played around with blank Ambiance postcards, rubber stamps and embossing...oh the endless possibilities. 

It's amazing how you can elevate any blank piece of paper (envelopes too, wink/wink) with a little imagination, colored ink and on special occasion, a really cool blow dry tool. 

I'm excited to be updating my marketing materials in a more authentic way. I think it shows a little creativity but not in-your-face crafty, which is what the Ambiance bride looks for. 

Looking forward to saying Hello to a few of you soon. 

2017, get ready for a more authentic Ambiance experience!

#authenticallyambiance #stationary #personalized #stamping #tgif

#AuthenticallyAmbiance Thankfulness

This morning, I'm up early, out on the deck with the soul purpose of getting my mood together before the man child wakes. Yesterday ended on a terrible note. Out of nowhere (late afternoon) my mood soured and I just couldn't shake it.

Writing seems to help me gather and refocus my thoughts, so I began to journal about what I am thankful for. What I wrote surprised me. Two simple words...another day.

Today, I am thankful for another day. It signifies another chance to get "it" right. Another day to simply try. Another day to improve. Another day to do differently or more of the same. Another day is another opportunity for me to feel something new, learn something new, and share a new experience.

This is as authentic as it gets for me.

When the wedding plans begin to overwhelm you, when doubt creeps into your mind, when anxiety seems to keep you up a little longer each night, when you can't image spending another weekend meeting about cakes, flowers, colors, and dreses; when you feel at the end of your planning rope...

!STOP!

This is a sign you need a moment. A healthy moment.  to reflect on all the good, all the can's instead of can'ts. You need a moment to be thankful for all things, big and small. A warm, sweet, creamy cup of #Starbucks. Hell, the money to afford a cup of Starbucks. Find your thankfulness in a close parking space, someone to kiss in the morning, a friend to meet for lunch, mindless tv that makes you laugh or just the quiet moment to yourself that didn't seem possible only a day ago. Take five minutes, 24 hours, or a whole weekend to reflect and regroup. I promise you'll find renewed spirit and be ready to tackle whatever you have lined up.

Now, failing to heed to this red flag may and will likely result in the following : moodiness, increased sarcasm, the biting off of loved ones heads, hasty decision making, overspending, avoiding email and phone calls, increased snacking (usually sweets and  potato chips...and wine, also sometimes considered a snack), swearing, tears and in extreme cases...adult tantrums. Don't let this be you!

Post a comment of what you are thankful for on our Facebook page starting today at Noon, EST, then share the post to be entered for a chance to win a $20 credit toward thank you notes from our #carlsoncraft e-boutique, to capture more of your thankful moments. Window Shop Now.

Winner will be chosen by random drawing onSaturday, July 23, 2017 at NOON, EST. Winner will be  announced on our Facebook page, so stay tuned. I can't wait!

Ready, Post,then Share...www.facebook.com/ambiancespecialevents

7 Things #ambianceadores about Tatyana Ali's Wedding

Can we just start by saying how adorably sweet it is that Ashley (Ali's character on the Fresh Prince of Bel Air) is Married! Tatyana Ali became Mrs. Vaughn Rasberry on Sunday, July 17. I would have LOVED to do this celebrity wedding because of how authentic and genuine it appears to have been. The coverage of this wedding is chocked full of valuable lessons for the every day bride. Here are 7 that #ambianceadores:

1. A Morning Wedding! I love this bold, non-trending choice. Weddings are what you make them and it is a myth that dancing into the night is the only way to host a romantic celebration. I predict
more couples will start to at least consider the a.m. time slot in their wedding plans.

2. Small & Intimate. I can't say enough about the advantages of small and intimate events; but for the every day bride, think about how much further your budget could go with less than 150 people. How about your floral budget with less than 7 bridesmaids? I'm just going to leave that right there for you to chew on.

3. Hired Help. I'm just saying, a wedding coordinator is a valuable decision, no matter how biased I may be.

4. Embraced The Moment. Too often we wish for more or better of ourselves and our situations. Ali is pregnant and makes a conscious decision to not look at her situation as a hiccup within her wedding plans but as something to be embraced and shared. Instead of choosing a gown to camouflage her bump, she embraces with a more fitted choice that highlights her growing miracle.

Bringing new life into the world aside, the lesson still applies to you. Say you don't have the wedding budget of your dreams, it's ok, few people do. You must embrace where you are in your career, your finances and your life and DO with it what you can. Your wedding plans will reflect more beautifully, more authentically when you embrace and appreciate who you are, where you are, and what you have.  Deal with it...work with it.

5. Purposeful Design. Ali's centerpieces were intended to be something guests could take home. Let me tell you, there is nothing worse than an end of the night, after thought of an announcement telling guest to take a centerpiece if they want to. Talk about a deer in headlights situation. A little foresight goes a long way because most of the time, your centerpieces aren't designed for casual transport (insert water all over your seats). If you let your florist know this is something you are considering, you can design arrangements that are also user friendly for a car ride home at the end of the event.

6. Responsible Splurging. That is no mistake. Yes Ali was married at the Four Season's Beverly Hills but we are talking about a Doctor and a well known actress. This wedding could have easily been Over. The. Top. Yet, the couple's cocktail hour centerpieces (pictured above) were made using supplies from Michael's Craft Store. Your budget is a balancing act, spend in areas that matter to you, make affordable choices and use alternatives in areas that don't. It's that simple.

7. Meaningful Personal Touches. Ali's day could have easily been plastered with their names, monogram, and pictures, but the couple made a series of modest selections that were personal and important to them. I love their use of the wishing tree for two reasons. One, they used an actual tree that can be continuously enjoyed throughout their lives. Two, it speaks to who they are as a couple. It says the support and blessings of their family and friends is an important thing they wanted to capture to remember from their day. What matters to you?

The coverage of this wedding is simply beautiful. The photos showcase what I believe to be the  true magic behind weddings...love. All the up-lighting and glitter in the world can't manufacture the same energy as two people that are truly, authentically in love. See the full piece from The Knot and more on what the bride had to say, HERE.



*Photos Courtesy of The Knot. #TheKnot #TatyanaAli #CelebrityWeddings #ambianceadores #MichaelsCraftStore #inspiration #weddingplanner #va #dc #md #weddings

Blogging...Is For The Birds!

I. Am. Stuck. That's right. I have literally spent an entire day...AN ENTIRE DAY...trying to figure out what to blog about. This is not only frustrating but exhausting. Hence the photo that totally captures my current mood.

#alwaysambiance bride Lisa having fun with Robert Holley Photography

I am on a journey to truly become "Authentically" Ambiance. It's not just the title of my blog but a lifestyle of wearing, living, breathing, and simply being my brand through and through.

This seemed much easier in theory because the truth is, I have spent a decade of attempting the blog the cookie cutter way; doing what I thought was proper. You know what I mean,  posting content, writing, photos the way  everybody else seems to be doing it.


Luckily, the blog hasn't stopped me from having success in my business but I also know it is a missing link in my growth. Blogging is a thing I am going to have to dig deep and really find my authentic digital voice.

Help a sister out!

You are the working bride. The one that is short on time, the one who craves affordable style, the one that doesn't want to spend ALL of your nights and weekends planning the pivotal moments in your life.

I said to myself,
Me: Self?
Myself: Yes.
Me: Why don't you just ask?

So here goes...tell me fair Unicorn, what do you want to know, to experience? What does inspire you? What is authentic to you? Let's get to know one another, engage, and discover authenticity together. You've read this far, don't leave me hanging; leave a comment, below or via social media. Don't leave me hanging.

If you blog for your business, tell me how you found your authentic voice.

All About That Lace!

Lace is such a timeless and classic fabric. Paired classic or rustic, lace adds elegance and charm to event design and decor. Today, #ambianceadores these lacy inspired invites and accessories just perfect for summer weddings. For more information on these looks and more lace inspiration, click HERE.

 Timeless Lace & Pearls Invite

Personalized Favor Bags

Classic Lace Invite

Modern Lace Invitation

Skip The Chargers and Spring for Lace Placemats!

Simple & Sweet Lace Seal N Send

Share A Photo & Say Thank You

Lace In Color, Double-Sided Invitation

Seven Lucky Tips from the Valentine Pros

Photo Cred: Bayside Resort Dot Com

It’s that time of year, where many spare no expense on bears, greeting cards, flowers, and more. The time honored tradition of publicly showing their affection for another on the day of St. Valentine.  According to 2014 statistics from CNN, roughly 2 billion dollars will be spent on candy, another 2 billion on flowers, and nearly 5 billion on diamonds, gold, and/or silver. Shocking, right?

This year, who better to advise you on your Valentine’s Day decisions than those who celebrate it annually…with the same person! We were so lucky to have a few of our Facebook Married couples offer their Do’s and Don’ts for the making this Valentine’s Day special and memorable.

Do think outside the box. It should be about quality time together...not things you receive. ~Kristi  & Nathaniel (3 years 11 months)

Don’t forget Valentine’s Day is February 14^th. ~Andrew (3yrs)

Do - make an effort...a small gesture or card; prepare dinner or dessert.  ~Suzanne (16 yrs)

Don’t think the MAN has to do everything on Valentine’s Day. We like to feel loved and special too. ~Robb (1year)

Do think about his/her personality and choose a gift that fits, not necessarily the standard flowers and chocolates. Thinking and preparation go a long way!  ~Shannon & Peter (7yrs)

Don’t celebrate Valentine’s Day. Treat each day as a special day. Giving flowers on the Tuesday before is better.  ~Omari  (5yrs)

If you don't do special stuff regularly and spontaneously throughout the year, Valentine’s Day isn't as special. ~Cassandra (19 yrs)

Before you cast your coins into the 18+ billion dollar pool of love tokens, consider just how well spent that money will be. Will your gestures really reflect your love and adoration for your partner? It looks like the pros agree to keep it creative and personal on any day you plan to show your love. These seven lucky tips are just the advice or reminders you need to achieve a more thoughtful and meaningful Valentine’s Day with your sweetie.

Go forth and spread the love!

#valentinesdaytips #valentinesday #valentinesdayideas #valentinegiftsforhim #valentinegiftsforher #ambianceadores 

Make It Monday: Napkin Design Series Pt 4

Today, a more advanced napkin design to use in your table glasses. Better Homes and Gardens has a jazzy little video to complete our Making It Monday Napkin Folding Series. Again, let me plug how terribly awful this would be for you to try and tackle without a coordinator (cough, cough...call me) for something large like a wedding. This design adds interest, a smidge of height to your tablescape and the pop of color we mentioned all month.

Hope you enjoyed and learned a few great ways to enhance your table glam for not a lot of moola!

Don't be left out. Get caught up on the whole January series:

Napkin Designs Pt. 1

Napkin Designs Pt. 2

Napkin Designs Pt. 3

What was your favorite design featured? Which, do you think was most easy to execute? Share...and post your comment below.



***More money saving tips and the best corners to cut in our newsletter subscription, Get It Here! 

#BumpDay: 2 Ways to Make Fun Last Long After the Shower

It's #BumpDay...your go-to spot for baby, shower, and mommy-to-be inspiration & projects. Today, we're sharing two fun and easy "pinteresting" activities for a baby shower. The special things about these activities, they are ways to remember your shower and the people who helped you celebrate long after it's over.

D-I-Y Bib Station: You'll need bibs, of course, and fabric markers to make this reusable memory. You'll love the conversation and laughs they'll create during the shower. The hard part will be deciding which one to use first. You can stay in touch with guests by snapping and sharing a photo when baby first wears his/her custom bib. It's a win-win activity.

Diaper Captions...are a great way to allow your guests to have some real fun. Capture each guests wisdom, wit, and encouragement with a diaper. You're sure to enjoy these long after the shower is over. I love this station for co-ed showers in particular. You are almost guaranteed to have a few laugh out loud moments just when you need one.

Enjoy & Happy #BumpDay!

Team Ambiance

5 Pinteresting Ways To Propose To Your Wedding Party

Searching for ways to pop the question a second time? How will you ask your closest friends and family to become your wedding party. We've got some adorable ideas just for you.

Custom Labels for Everyone 

Responsibilities Included 

We totally have a crush on this scrabble tile ring. CLICK  HERE to check out the DIY instructions.

#ambianceadores Grey's Anatomy, so Be My Person, sent us over the moon in love. 

Say It With Wine! Drink now or save for 1st Anniversary.

*Photo Cred: Pinterest

#ambianceadores #bridesmaidproposalideas #groomsmanproposalideas #weddingpartygifts #bridalparty #vaweddingplanner