Why hire a wedding coordinator?

Congratulations on your engagement! You may be thinking, why do I need to hire a wedding coordinator? The average cost of weddings in the United States is around $28,000. Do you really want to put that investment in the hands of a friend or relative who has volunteered to "help out" vs. a trained professional who coordinates weddings and events for a living? Wedding coordinators can save their clients an overall savings of between 10-25%. They can assist you in maintaining a realistic budget.
Did you know that many brides spend 250 hours planning their wedding? Sounds like another full time job added to your already busy schedule. So what is your time worth to you? Wedding coordinators can save you valuable time and effort by referring you to vendors that fit your needs.
On your wedding day, would you like to sit back, relax, and get pampered by professionals doing your hair and makeup? At the ceremony and reception would you like to truly enjoy your event with your new husband and guests? That is the idea situation. If you don't have a trained and experienced coordinator working for you, your day could be spent stressed out. You could be running around checking up on vendors, setting up, managing event activities, answering countless questions, while handling last minute details and emergencies. Wedding coordinators can keep your stress level to a minimum by handling the details and coordinating a flawless event for you!

Chocolate diamonds

It's been said that diamonds are a girl's best friend. As for me, I am rather partial to chocolate. Many of you may not want to admit it but I know I am not alone. I will proudly stand and confess, "Hi. My name is Nicole and I am a chocoholic!" So what could be better than chocolate diamonds? Except for Mr. Right of course.

While I am a confessed chocoholic, I do realize that sometimes a moment on the lips can lead to a lifetime on the hips. That being said, diamonds are forever. I could stare at this beautiful chocolate diamond engagement ring all day and not gain a single pound. Who wouldn't love a best friend like this?

Buttercream vs. Fondant

Today is the first day of school for many kids. School supplies have been purchased, book bags are filled, and off they go to get an education. I proudly took both of my excited kids to school today. Of course my teenager would only let me take her as far as the parking lot! But I digress.

So with education on my mind, I decided to teach you a little about buttercream vs. fondant to frost your cake. Buttercream is made with butter, sugar, and eggs while fondant is made of sugar syrup, and glucose. Once fondant has been cooked and cooled, it can be rolled and draped over each tier of your cake. It has a smooth elegant but firm look, which can be hard to cut. Buttercream is creamy and soft so easier to cut. However, because it is made with butter, heat and humidity can cause the cake to melt. Buttercream cakes need to be kept cool. Fondant handles heat better which may look better in your photos.

As far as the best value per slice, buttercream wins easily. The verdict is still out on taste. Many people prefer the taste of buttercream, but some like fondant as well. Those that don't, simply peel it off. It is all a matter of what is more important to you.

Photo by: Angie Silvy

Lemon Drops

The saying goes, if life gives you lemons, make lemonade. I say, if life gives you lemons, make......... lemon drops! Is one of your wedding colors yellow? Do you like lemons? Then why not add a little kick to your wedding reception or other celebration by having lemon drops as your signature drink?
Ingredients:
1 1/2 ounce vodka
1/2 ounce Triple Sec
1 teaspoon of superfine sugar
3/4 ounce lemon juice

Mix vodka, Triple Sec, and lemon juice in a shaker filled with ice and shake until cold. Pour into a martini glass rimmed with the superfine sugar. Makes 1 drink. Enjoy!

Photo by: Allrecipes.com