Attended: Promises and Pearls - Decor Recap

First let me say that I'm really bummed we can't use our tapers. I absolutely love how candles warm up a space. The wall of votive candles is such a classy look - not right for our theme, but perfect for a modern theme.

I liked how some of the featured tablescapes didn't use fresh flowers but rather tree branches, succulents, fresh fruit. Some of the displays with a single flower or a couple floating in water were to me the most eye catching.

If I was planning a destination or summer backyard wedding in Texas or Southern California, I'd definitely consider this play on ceramic tiles. The colors are so vibrant. I can see where the caterer was going with the fruity tequila shooters but alas I'm a gal that likes my tequila/mescal straight up for sipping.

Many of my friends love their tea. So when I saw this Marie Antoinette-inspired table I was immediately drawn to it. It's quaintness and cozy feel seemed better fitted for a venue flush with wood or Victorian detailing. I could totally see a mid-morning or early-afternoon wedding tea reception at our venue - The Swedish American Hall. (It wouldn't have even been that hard to get the decor - my mom, my sister, and I all have antique tea cup collections.)

The Bently Reserve is a very elegant, chic venue with its chandeliers, grand staircase and columns. With the exception of the tile inspired tablescape and tea inspired tablescape, I could see all of these vignettes in this space. I could also see the following decor options working nicely in Mer, Terra, or DogPatch Studios - spaces that we'd considered initially.

One thing to keep in mind about your decor - how well will it stand up to your guests? If it looks good for just a few minutes, you might want to think of doing something different. 

Attended: Promises and Pearls - Vendor Recap

Hands down our (ok my) favorite vendor was Raffine Chocolates out of San Ramon. I love chocolate and OMG Raffine's sweet treats did not disappoint. For just over $2.50 each, we could treat each guest to a bite of heaven wrapped up in a box that matches our wedding colors.

At times it seemed as if Mooflyfoof and I were the only two brides getting married this year or in under six months. Because neither of us were engaged last year for the Third Annual Promises and Pearls we weren't really able to take advantage of vendor specials or planning tips. Most vendors for our respective weddings and receptions have already been chosen and are already booked.

Throughout the space, there were vendors offering furniture rentals, specialized table linens, chair covers and sashes - as well as the elusive Ghost Chairs.

I'm glad we didn't start our foray into the wide world of wedding planning at this event. The theme was decadence and neither of us embrace that in our every day lives. I kept thinking "Wouldn't it be great if there was a Maker's Wedding Salon or Etsy DIY Wedding Fair?" As both Make and Etsy options flow from authenticity, such a fair is probably unrealistic - each bride and groom have a different story to tell.

Formalwear as well as dress salons were in attendance. The trend appeared to be lots of bling - for bridesmaids as well as for the bride. I flipped through a bunch of catalogs scanning for potential Mother of the Bride outfits. I quickly realized that most MOB outfits are targeted for women in their late 40s or mid 50s. Or potentially women who have had some reconstruction work done that they want to show off.

The cupcake trend - reported by NY Times - to be dead, appeared to be still be in vogue. Although the cookie bar - no vegan options unfortunately - was more tempting to me.

Did you attend any Bridal Shows when you were engaged? What was your experience like?

Be sure to visit the blog tomorrow for the last Promises and Pearls recap featuring tablescapes.

Attended: Promises and Pearls

Last night we attended Promises and Pearls with Mooflyfoof. The event held at the Bently Reserve was hosted by MB Wedding Design and Events and Especially Yours Chair Covers. It was billed as an evening of decadence and it did not disappoint.

There was lots to see and do, so I'm going to split the recaps into multiple posts. Today I'll highlight the goodie bag and the food. Tomorrow I'll highlight the desserts so come on back!

Each couple received a goodie bag as they checked in (they ran out of bags so it was actually wise to grab the bag and carry it around). You could easily spot the grooms as they were typically standing off to the side sporting the bag hoisted over their shoulder. There were samples - cookies, chocolates, pastries; resources (Here Comes the Guide); and more (measuring tape with level, emery board).

The first room had a latin theme with Ceviche for sampling. There were three types. We weren't able to sample the ceviche until later in the evening as the ice bowls were almost always empty. Brides obviously like their ceviche!

ProTip 1: Arrive on time for events if you want to sample everything. Signature drinks and truffles (at The Beauty Bar) were gone by 7:00 pm and were not replenished.

In the middle of the main room there was a handroll station. On our first couple of passes we met with almost empty or empty platters.

Waiters frequently appeared with passed appetizers on granite slabs. They moved quickly through the throngs of people with food disappearing in a blink of an eye. Sorry for the blurred shots (they moved fast).

Brides appear to come ravenous to tastings. You've been warned.

ProTip 2: Stand by the door to the kitchen for the best selection of passed appetizers. Don't be bashful, grab the food as it goes by when you have the chance.