Love Never Fails.

Mad for Monogram

As you all know, I am a professional sorority girl. And with that, there are three things that I have come to love. Sperry Top-Siders, Vera Bradley planners, and everything monogrammed.

This morning I received a text from Ms. Christa D'Amico asking me for thoughts on an engagement gift for a friend and it got me thinking. On that special day the blushing bride gains a lasting love, lineage, and a new last name. Now it's time to give her something to show off her new addition. So here is what I've come up with...

She will surely be swamped with 'thank-you' cards after the wedding so consider purchasing a personalized stamp that she can use on envelopes & the top of blank note cards.

I have absolutely fallen head-over-heels for monogrammed pendants! These have been spotted on trend setters like Taylor Swift and Lauren Conrad and, not to mention, are flippin' fantastic!

Wait! It doesn't stop there! For a few other monogram must-haves take a look at nautical note cards, party plates, cute coffee cups, and decadent decanters (all at a price you'll love).

So Shakespeare begs the question, "What's in a name?" Well, ol' guy...I have a good answer to that. A stinkin' cute monogram! Until Monday greets us again belles!

Watch Your Elbows, Lady

This weekend I attended the Who's Who in 'I Do' Bridal Show at Generations Hall in New Orleans, LA. So, I am here to bring a few tips on how to brave the crowds, get good information, and what to expect.

Ladies, if you are not a bride...don't hesitate to march yourself right on in! Borrow your momma's ring, slap on the 'bride' sticker, and be a princess for the day! Grab a glass of complementary champagne and enjoy the unending cake samples. There is sure to be a fashion show to catch or centerpiece displays that are meant for your gawking.

Brides-to-be, there are a few things to have prepared before entering the room of bridezillas (yes, they will use elbow force if you are in their way of a desired booth). First, although I am sure you will want to look cute and sophisticated...wear comfortable shoes. Second, print out a page of labels that include your name, contact information, and wedding date. You can simply paste these on sign-in sheets at booths you are interested in hearing more about. Third, bring a camera! There are cakes, centerpieces, and dresses that you will want to remember for later. Take an idea and make it your own! And lastly, don't...and I repeat don't drag your fiancé to these things! It is a room full of overwhelmed women...ooing and ahhing, pushing and shoving, and they simply don't want any part of it. You can bring information home and discuss it over a beer but please don't torture the man.

Most of all, have fun! Take advantage of the multitude of photo booths and take your time to take it in. We're girls and we like this kind of stuff. It is your turn to be Who's Who in I Do!

Happy Love Day

Hello belles and gents! As you all know it's Americans day for L.O.V.E. and I was lucky enough to fly to NOLA to see mine. As I always post on Mondays it shall have wait until tomorrow. Have a wonderful day, eat lots of chocolate, and tell someone you love them! XOXO.

A new way to Save the Date...L.O.V.E.

Beach Bum Belles

                                                                                                          Photography: Tim Melideo

Alright belles, let's talk honeymoon wardrobe! Now, this is assuming you are going to a tropical destination and plan on gettin' your tan on...I have found a few affordable and adorable pieces you & your gent will love.

1st thing's 1st...bikinis with a touch of damsel. A white and frilly suit by Victoria's Secret will look great with your sun kissed skin! Keep your dresses colorful and fun and be sure to protect your freckled face with a woven fedora and consider a long men's top as a cover-up (like the blue & tan top from J. Crew).

You are sure to have a few sight seeing days so be sure to have appropriate foot wear. TOMS are cute, comfy and delightfully charming! Couple them with a pair of cuffed denim shorts and a bright top and you are sure to be the belle of the beach!

Most importantly, have fun and soak it all in! This will certainly be a time in your life you will never forget. XOXO.

Banana Republic Fedora: $39.50, Red Canvas Classic Toms: $44.00, Forever21 White Lace Dress: $28.00, Modcloth.com One Shoulder Dress: $44.00, Gap Cuffed Denim Shorts: $55.00, Forever21 Red Mini: $25.00, J. Crew Cover-Up: $74.00, Etsy.com Uma Jewelery Necklace: $25.00, Victoria's Secret Bikini: $38.00

Look for Less

J.Crew Black Strapless Dress: $350.00                                      Old Navy Black Strapless Dress: $30.00
Banana Republic Turquoise Necklace: $250.00                 Ralph Lauren Turquoise Necklace: $78.00       
Total: $600.00                                                                                             Total: $108.00

Tie a Beau

                                                                                                                                 Southern Proper

As I was online shopping today (OK, online looking because I am a tight wad) I came across all of the patterns and designs that Southern Proper has to offer. So I thought...what bride doesn't like to give a good gift to her new hubby?

This is what I'm thinkin' so ponder with me for a moment... It's becoming common that the bride changes into a more comfortable, party dress for the wedding's reception. I think the men can do the same! Why not change out of that black tie and vest and switch into something that shows a little personality!

For a wedding gift, surprise your beau with a tie that not only says 'I love you' but 'I love who you are.' Southern Proper offers patterns with crawfish, trout, and bourbon & cigars (just to name a few).

And why not top it off with a basket of some fresh, new undies! Hey, you shouldn't be the only one with new nightly wear!

                                                                                                              Southern Proper

How to Savour the Favor

The wedding is over and your gifts are stacked high. Now a gift for the guest, before they say ‘Bye!’ Let’s get creative, and go with the theme. Whether it’s photos, candy, or cookies and cream!

Favors are getting more creative by the day-incorporating the theme of the wedding, satisfying the sweet tooth, and creating memories you can keep forever! So let's talk about simple gifts that are cost efficient, inspired and stinkin' adorable!

Satisfy your sweet tooth with a candy or cookie bar! Large, clear jars and candy can be purchased whole sale. Just add colorful ribbon and craft paper banners to add a little umph!

How about a photo booth with instant prints? Build a photo wall with old pictures of family members on their wedding days. Simple carpentry and wallpaper can give guest a snapshot to last forever.



Below is a local beer served in New Orleans and of course, Beignet mix! Stick with your theme. Look up local traditions and food to give your guest a souvenir from the host town. 

My Dream Cake

This cake is perfection. All white, adorned with a monogram and a quatrefoil base (the quatrefoil is the Phi Mu badge shape). A...mazing.




I Love You To CenterPieces!

Hello belles! I know this post is a few days overdue but I am back and ready for some bloggin’ action!

Now although my recent trips to up north were snow filled and beautiful, it sure helped me remember why I love my warm southern states.

So back in my ‘southern’ mindset I start to think of perfectly pretty centerpieces that give a down-home feel to an uptown wedding. As usual, I am keeping cost in mind so here we go…

Mason jars are no longer for picklin’ or saving jam. Spruce them up with simple tea candles or a bundle of your favorite fresh cuts. These can be purchased at any grocery store at around $10 for a pack of 12! If you want to add a little extra consider gluing rows of hemp to the bottom half of the jars.

Next time you are in a small town, hit up some of the local antique shops. You are sure to find a variety of classic tea cups. Consider this vintage approach by placing 3 to 5 different tea cups filled with colorful peonies or roses.   

My last and most favorite centerpiece is a distressed birdcage! This will not only bring height to your tables but will add a structural dimension of creativity. Place a sheer ribbon through the top loop and fill the inside with single stem cylinders complete with simple flowers or wheat stems.

I hope you all enjoy the video below and try out some of these centerpiece ideas when your special day arrives! Until then I hope that your teacup overfloweth :)

I Give You My Life This Day

This was a link shared with me by my sweet friend, Christa D’Amico. It is a beautiful depiction a real love. I hope you all enjoy! XOXO.

Do You Have What it Takes?

I am now 22 years old, out of college, and hitting the real world with full force. My professors prepared me for interviews, taxes, and spreadsheets but surely not what it takes to be an A+ bridesmaid.

I know this all sounds a little ridiculous but I am getting more wedding invitations than paychecks! So this poses my question, when given the honor to stand in a wedding, what are my duties?

Let’s start with the origin of the bridesmaid. In the 19^th century, it was said that evil spirits would enter the nuptials with intent to curse the ‘I Do’s.’ The goal of the wedding party was to protect the bride and groom and surround them throughout the wedding.

Now, since we no longer believe in evil spirits intending to do harm (and no, your mother in-law doesn’t count as an evil spirit) the bride wants us there for support and assistance. And this doesn’t just mean on the big day.

First thing to note, whatever your bride loves, you love. This includes your camouflage dress or her decision to play “Feel like makin’ love” as the couple’s first dance tune. Suck it up and hush it up!

Ask her what she needs in preparation for the wedding. Offer to organize a bridesmaid get-together to assemble party favors or centerpieces. Initiative is key!

Plan a party! Although this is not required, it’s surely a nice gesture. Themes to consider: Stock the Pantry, Wine Tasting Shower, Lingerie, Garden Party, or Honeymoon Shower. Take creative reign with the shower and decor and ask guest to dress according to the theme (floppy hats, sexy pumps, or go for a clothing color theme).

Most importantly, be there for your bride. You are in her elite lineup because you mean something special to her! Show her that you care and you have her back. So get a tan, touch up your roots, and don’t lock your knees. I assume you’d like to pass on a pass out. Until next time belles!

(Below is the first draft of the Southern Bells logo. Special thanks to Andrew Crane!)

Have His Cake & Eat it Too!

It’s time to play the honesty game ladies. How frequently do we let our men make decisions for the big day?

Often, right? Only if often means never! It’s not enough that we make our knuckle draggers get a haircut, shave,  and (heaven forbid) wear a tie—that we can’t give him a little something to call his own? I’d say the least we could do is add a sugary accessory to his newly worn ball ‘n’ chain.

So, let’s talk groom’s cake! It is surely a newer tradition but something that can tell everyone in attendance what is at the core of your groom’s obsessions! Really think about what he enjoys, what he spends his time doing (when he is not telling you how stinkin’ beautiful you are, of course) and make it edible!

Here are just a few ideas to get your brain stirring:

• Sports team logos, helmets, even fields!
• Fishing gear, boats, bass (anything sportsman)
• Musical Instruments
• And I am sad to say I have even seen gaming consoles!

Ultimately, this delectable dessert is all for him! Remember, food is the way to a man’s heart, but I can’t imagine what food in the shape of a PlayStation will do! Bon Appétit my friends!

(Every photo below is a completly edible cake!)

Let's Get Real

OK…We (women of the free world) dream about our wedding early in life. We waddled around in our mothers heels, put towels on our heads in place of a veil, and used a giant hair brush for the blooming bouquet. When that special day comes our wedding is going to be beautiful, smart, fun, extravagant…wait one second…inexpensive too, right?

It’s time to get real. As the saying goes, we want what we simply can’t have. So, let’s talk about ways to save!

Flowers: Think outside of the box! While roses are beautiful, arrangements can be made that are inexpensive and show off your personality. Consider billows of fresh cut cotton mixed in with Texas tallow berries and large magnolias. Or how about cabbage roses, feathers, or wheat? Your florist can help you with your vision, just don’t be afraid to be a little different!

Venues: Although there are many plantation homes, barns, event centers etc. that cater to wedding events only, have you considered doing it yourself? Many home and land owners would be more than happy to make their place available to you and your guests and will ask for much less moo-lah! If you go this route it is in your best interest to have a ‘day-of’ wedding planner to be sure that everything is set up and in order, just how you envisioned it.

Music: Although bands are a great addition to a wedding, they can be extremely costly. Shop around for an awesome DJ who is familiar with weddings. You may also know a family member or friend that may be great at simple guitar pluckin’ and singing. This could be a nice option while the meal is being served.

Things not to skimp on: Photographer! This is your special day and you want it perfectly documented. Shop around. Photographers have different styles, some artistic, some traditional. Figure out what you like, who you like and show them da’ money! The photographer will usually give cost reductions to a couple who chooses to do their engagement and with wedding photos with them. Just remember, ask for discounts and deals. It can’t hurt!

Below are a few photos of how I rang in the new year (with my love, Jeff) and the incredible, Kate Middleton repleca engagement ring I recieved as a gift for Christmas. Thank you again for reading and Happy New Years! Until next time!

All I Want for Christmas is You

Christmas morning had come and gone, gifts had been unwrapped, and I was deep in my mid-afternoon nap (turkey induced, of course). After a half hour of superior slumber I awoke to my phone alerting me of a voicemail. I had two missed calls…Lauren and Emily Poche. Were they calling to tell me about new Yurman bracelets or Hunter Wellington boots? Oh no, not even close. Something way, way better. A gift had been delivered by method of a handsome man on one knee. It was beautiful…a round cut diamond, surrounded by smaller diamonds and completed with a perfect diamond band (did I mention, diamonds?). My sweet friend, Lauren Poche was ENGAGED! Below is the story of Lauren and Stephen and what her plans for the wedding are so far.

Please share with us the love story of you and Stephen.
Stephen and I met in church and attended the same high school. After knowing each other for a few years we began dating my senior year. We continued dating throughout college while maintaining a long distance relationship (I in Mississippi and he in Louisiana). After about a year into our relationship I knew this was the man I wanted to be with for the rest of my life, and I think he felt the same :). During the fall of 2010 Stephen and I shopped for rings and I picked out a few that I liked. Stephen surprised me on Christmas morning with one last present. As he got on his knee, a beautiful (and might I add, my favorite) diamond ring was presented as he asked me to be his bride. In the midst of all my crying I said YES and could not have been happier!

Have you considered colors and locations for your special day yet?
I love navy for the bridesmaid dresses. I am also considering blue, green, and white hydrangeas and cream colored roses, tulips, or peonies. The location is undetermined as of now but I would love a wedding in New Orleans or something plantation and old south inspired.

What was the first thing you did to begin preparation for your wedding?
Monday morning after Christmas I went to Books-a-Million and picked out wedding magazines and cute thank you notes I’ve had my eye on.

Describe your perfect wedding in three words.
Classy, Southern, and FUN!

Congratulations Lauren and Stephen! You deserve the absolute best and I couldn’t be happier for you both!

Trendy vs. Timeless

OK, it’s time to tackle the ever feared bridesmaid dress. As I contemplate why there is such a stigma attached I have to consider possible reasons why they tend to be totally treacherous. Is it the selfish nature of the bride rearing her ugly head? Could it be that the bride is making a deliberate point to make her best friends look less beautiful than herself? Could it be the simple mistake of going with the trends of the time? Lace and floral in the 70’s, metallic and shoulder pads in the 80’s, and just plain ugly in the 90’s.

So how can you choose a dress that will be timeless, beautiful, and great for every maid? I have a few tips that might help in your time of decision making! The a-line dress cut is your best bet to look good on all body shapes. This accentuates the waist, cinching right below the bust and creates a subtle silhouette. If you are staying away from floor length gowns, keep the hem line right above or below the knee. As always, alterations will be the bridesmaid’s best friend. The perfect fit can make just about any dress look great. Solid colors and simple, structured lines will keep the dress timeless. Let the ladies add their own personal touch when it comes to hair and make-up. They know what looks good on them so don’t be afraid to loosen the reigns!

Whatever you choose, ask yourself “Would I wear this?” Always keep your wedding gifts in mind, what dress you choose may be the difference between a fruit basket and Waterford wine glasses.

NOLA Fairytale

I figure for my very first post I should explain what I have mentally planned for oh… a mere 15 years, my dream wedding. The night would take place in New Orleans, LA. I want it southern, really southern. Vows assumed at an old plantation home surrounded by oak trees, magnolias, lace, and chiffon bridesmaid gowns. Now keep in mind that I am a devout sorority girl and with that comes my duty to have the Phi Mu flower in my wedding. But, did it have to be a carnation? Really? So I will somehow manage to sneak them in somewhere while I attempt to make it as elegant as the chandeliers hanging from the oak branches. Of course the food will be Cajun inspired and deserts will include beignets and petafores. I envision a horse drawn carriage and fireworks bursting after the ‘I do’s.’ Granted, I am dreaming big but it can’t hurt! When that day comes and the Southern Bells ring, I know it will be a day we will never forget.