6.13.2012

Call Me, Carly!


Any Maid of Honor ladies in the hizzz-ouse? Ok, I got my ghetto out. Now back to being a belle...

A'while back while pondering what to do for my best friend's bachelorette, I wrote down ideas before pickin' up the phone to call my girl. But you know me and when it comes to this subject, I want to go all out! So I set up a camera and put on my favorite jam. Call Me, Maybe. (Duh.) I recorded my ideas, gave her something to chew on, and then she could call me...maybe! 

So go on and get creative dolls. If anything it will give 'er a giggle! 


Have an awesome week belles and beaus! You deserve it! 

xo

5.26.2012

I Wanna Marry You

80 degree weather, poolside, and a little Kendall Jackson is all I thought I needed to make this Memorial Day weekend the bestest. But an engagement video just made it a dash better and I can't contain my excitement any longer.

Thoughtful engagements make me giggle, cry and exclaim 'oh-my-lanta' and I'm takin' a bet that you're doomed for the same result! Read no further and watch. Amazeballs


Thank you, Chelsea for sharing! This is definitely going in my favorites folder. 

XOXO 

5.24.2012

Nola Belles & Bachelorettes

Since becoming a Louisiana native, I've picked up on a few things 'round these parts. Po' boy is pronounced as it's written, it's not just hot - it's humid, and everything's better with a little Tony Chachere's. I've posed as the typical tourist, prancing around the River Walk and indulging in one too many beignets [Fr. ben-yey]. And other than Vegas, I've become aware that New Orleans is the prime destination for bachelorette parties!

There's got'ta be a reason the belles keep coming back so I've done my research! Below are a few places to begin your party planning. Now get out your Lilly planner and get'ta writting!

Shopping



Existing for over 200 years, beginning as a trading post off the Mississippi River, the French Market has evolved into the perfect place for open-air shopping.



Belles, brace yourselves. This is a 6 mile long shopping oasis. Magazine is filled with awesome boutiques, galleries, and restaurants ta'boot. This is 'uptown' shopping at it's finest. You will d.i.e.

Breakfast and Lunch



Established in 1862, this open-air coffee and beignet (an amazing powered sugar, donut-esque pastry) stand is open 24 hours! So you know what this means...shall your night turn into morning and you're needing a little grub, there is literally no better place to stumble upon. Seriously. I could eat my weight in these things! 




If you want to let your hair down and kick off your pumps, head over to Cooter Browns! Not only does this place cater to all your local cravings like po' boys, burgers, and seafood but they have a beer menu with over 400 selections! All southern girls love a beer-n-burger kind'a meal! 



The first time I met Jeff's family they took me here. Wow y'all. This place is stunning. The outside courtyard is something from a fairytale. The food is authentic Louisiana creole and they usually have a jazz band playing. I melt.  

Dinner 


Y'all...this is the best Mexican food in town. The atmosphere is amaze and the margaritas are even better! It's located in uptown, it's hip and swanky with great outside seating. 



I'm pretty sure this place is owned by the same peeps that run Superior Grill. Either way, it is nom-nom good. Jeff and I went here before the Lady A concert and I'm still swoonin' over the oysters and stuffed chicken! This is a little more expensive but oh-so-worth-it. 



Famous for their steak and burgers, Port of Call is located in the French Quarter and is casual and cute! 



If you want to be close to all the action, hit up Bourbon House. Located on Bourbon St. (no surprise there) this is a nice place to stop before your night's extravaganzas.  

Late Night 



Ah, Pat O's. Known for an incredible piano bar and famous Hurricane drink. Go here to start off your night with a bang! They have napkins all over the tables - all you have to do is right down a song request and send it up to the piano players. Yep, they'll play just about anything and you can sing along all night!



Gold Mine Saloon


This place is said to have the best dance scene! The combination of cheap drinks and 80's and 90's music will keep the belles dancing for hours!



The favored of all karaoke bars and the best time you'll have in a hot minute! Even if you're not into showcasing your A.I. skills, this place is fun, clean, and energetic. It's a must-go for any bachelorette party! 


Now go have some fun ladies and let the good times roll! XO!

5.15.2012

Keep Calm, Your Time Will Come


Are you in the 'life stage' I'm in? The twenty-something stage where everyone around you seems to be committed, engaged, or married? It's the time of life that's chaotically wonderful. You're growing into your adult skin, molded from college mistakes-heartbreaks-and wish-to-do do-overs. You're considering your life and the kind of person you want to spend that life with. So where's the ring? Where's the bended-knee proposal? Where, where, where?

Well'p, I'm here to say...simmer your sauce and just get happy! Because you my belle - you are in store for something great. You are in store for a perfect beau, a perfect engagement, and a perfect life for you!

Trust me, there have been moments when I catch the envy-bug and throw a pity parade filled with red wine and reality shows but that's not what God intended me to do! He intended me to celebrate, to call my friends and ask for all the deets, and write the most fantastic blog full of their love stories!

So this is the most comforting piece of truth I can offer you for now - His timing is perfect. It's hard to wrap our restless, list-oriented mind around it but His timing is greater than our 'schedule.' And you know what schedule I'm talking about:

18 - Graduate from High School
22 - Graduate from College (in 4 years, of course during which you'll meet Mr. Oh-so-Right)
24 - Get engaged (to some J. Crew lookin' stud who looks great in khakis)
28 - Start a family (that will dress in cardigans and polos for the yearly Christmas card) 

Sound about right? I'm sure your grinning to yourself as I am. For most of us, this quality of 'planning' allows us to be organized, sufficient, and reliable. But it's also cripples us to a world we are passing by. So allow me to hop up on my soap box and say, 'Let go and let God.' 

Single belles, have you considered that He has better taste then you? That He has not quite prepared your heart for your perfect match; that the man that matches your worth is still working on himself? 

And to all my taken ladies waiting for the sparkler. There will be a moment when your hearts combined are prepared for a lifelong commitment. Because that's what it is, right? We have to believe we are preparing for a lifetime.   

So celebrate in celebrations! Throw out your schedule and be comfortable in your 'life stage.' And above all else, keep your heart wide open.

Dream BIG belles and settle for nothing but your insurmountable worth. 

Follow @Southern_Bells on Twitter for a chance to win a copy of Handmade Weddings book!

 

I'll Cleave to You

This video was one of the first ever posted on Southern Bells. And every time I've watched it since, I hold back the urge to boo-hoo.

The vows are the killer. The girl is precious and her groom seems to absolutely adore her. Grab a hanky and join me friends. This one's good!


Vows:

Man:  I give you my life this day in the presence of God and according to His will. I leave my father and mother and I'll cleave to you.

I will love you as Christ loves the church, giving my life to yours. I will lead and protect you, as we share our life with God, who gave us one another.

Wife: According to the will of God and my desire, I give myself to you. To be your wife and your friend and to stand by you as we share our life together. Leaving my father and mother, I now commit myself to you.

I love you and believe in your from this day forward.

5.09.2012

You're About A Million


Ah...videography. It sure has come a long way from our parents beta tapes! Now-a-days it's a perfect mix of music, I Do's, and clips of wedding highlights. Think of it as a two minute collage of the happiest day of your life.

Today I came across this gem of Jessica and David. The compilation is perfection and it sure don't hurt that the bride and groom are ridiculously good looking. Check out the magic that is their wedding by Contrast Films. 

5.04.2012

What'a Catch

Looks like a catcher for the Baltimore Orioles has caught his belle...


Spring is in full bloom and so is the love between Brooke and Caleb! From the tiny snip-its I've received, Brooke hopped on a plane yesterday to visit her beau. Caleb and Brooke's family weren't far behind...covertly headed to one spot on the map to see the engagement!


I want to save all the deets for when Brooke can tell you the whole story but for now here's a glimpse of some post-engagement photos. And, from what I hear, Caleb hired a photographer to go all 'secret-ops' to get the whole engagement on film! I know... I can't wait to see the pics either!


Congratulations Brooke and Caleb! We can't wait to hear more about the engagement and wedding planning! 



5.01.2012

5 Nonnegotiables

Inspired by the 10 Things that make me happy post, I decided to list my 5 Nonnegotiables. These are the 5 things I can't do without on my wedding day. Read on and send me your 5! 

Magnolias
In the bouquet, on the cake, or placed in a mason jar. All is fine with me!

 Quatrefoils 
The Phi Mu badge shape will have'ta show up somewhere!

Bow ties
Patterns make me melt. 

Photographer, Courtney Dellafiora
My favorite photographer based out of Baton Rouge and owner of The Boudoir Vixen. 

Ring Blessing
To have all close family members (grandparents, parents, and siblings) have time in the ceremony to say a prayer of blessing over the rings.

4.30.2012

Preparing Hearts

Looks like another gent fell victim to a beautiful, blonde, southern belle. Learn a little about Caroline, Westley and all their wedding details only on Southern Bells!


What southern staples make you drool?

Mashed potatoes and mac n cheese. Both veggies right? We'll pretend.

Where are your heart stickers on the US map? 

Charleston, St. Augustine (a lot of Westley’s family that I love live here so we visit every summer), and it may sound silly but, I love Myrtle Beach! My family has a home there so lots'a
fun memories have been created at the beach.

3 things we'd find in your closet...

I’m sort of a plain jane, hehe! If I find a shirt that I like, I buy it in 3 different colors. Other than my solid tops, I love a good sundress! However, if I could just be totally honest about it all, I am the happiest in my nike shorts and a t-shirt! Norts never get old. One in every color, please! 


What was the first thing you did to plan for your wedding?

Other than picking our wedding date 30 minutes after Westley’s proposed; I called and booked the reception venue the next day! I've always loved the Springdale House and knew I had to snatch it up quick!

Thoughts on wedding colors?

Aqua and Coral!

Did you take anyone special with you dress shopping?

Mom and I decided to run in Bella Vista and browse one day. After about 30 minutes, I had found the dress…and it was on sale!

Any areas you've been able to save some moolah?

I’ve found some great websites via Pinterest for buying burlap, mason jars, and paper lanterns in bulk for a great price! And, of course my dress! 


Give the readers your best advise about wedding planning...

If I could give any advice it would be to enjoy the planning process but don’t forget to prepare your heart for marriage. Being engaged is not only a time to prepare for the wedding but to prepare your heart to be united to one another for a lifetime! A dear friend of mine gave me the book, Inviting God to Your Wedding and I would recommend it to any bride. It’s so easy to get caught up in all the hoopla that comes with planning for the actual day, but honestly none of that will matter. I will marry the love of my life on July 28th and even if it rains on my day, even if the bouquets aren't exactly right, even if no one else even shows up, God will be present at our wedding and He will be glorified…and that is all that matters to us.

Caroline, thank you for sharing your deets and wisdom with us! Southern Bells wishes you all the luck in your planning and a marriage full of love and adoration.

4.24.2012

10 Things

During a 'catch-up' call with my sweet friend Dania, the little lady inspired me to make a '5 Things' post. As the author of The Pink Smashbox Blog, she asked her readers to post their top 5 things that make them most happy.

Now I know, you are expecting some post about wedding-what-nots but how's about a little somethin' different? I sat down to consider some options and of course, I couldn't consolidate - so without further ado, below are 10 Things that make this belle tick...

1.
 Picnics! I've only been on one in my life but I imagine it would be reminiscent of the good ol' days.

2.
Hunter Wellies. The only thing that makes me excited about rain is the promise of wearing these waterproof wonders!

3.
Schnauzers! I fell in love 14 years ago to a black schnauzer named Barkleigh. How can you resist these bearded pups? 

4.
A clean room. Yes, I enjoy cleaning. A part of me finds it therapeutic. Another part of me contributes it to my mother. Saturday's were cleanin' days and your bed better be made before she gets home! 

5.
Colors of Fall. Reminiscent of my drive home from college through the Tennessee mountains. The closer to home, the brighter the colors.

6.
Surprises! Simply put...I love them. 

7.
Planning. Wedding planning, event planning, party planning. I love it all. Turning someone's vision into a reality makes me giddy! This blog is my brain's sketchbook to ideas, galore! 

8.
Merridee's Chicken Salad Sandwich. Oh baby. This Franklin, TN bakery featured in Southern Living's: The South's Best Bakeries serves up the best chicken salad on egg bread in the south! nom. nom.

9.
Gas lanterns. A dash of New Orleans mixed with rustic warmness (equals) perfection. 

10.
Franklin, TN. My hometown. Filled with antebellum homes, a beautiful downtown, great bakeries and pubs, scenic outskirts, and musicians to boot. 

Thank you Dania for this inspiring idea! I recon when it really comes down to it, it's not my phone-laptop-or ipod that makes me most happy. It's the smaller things in life we tend to look over. The lunches with good friends, road trips, rainy days, and the contentment of a tidy room.

Take a little time today and write down your '5 Things,' or '10 Things' in my case. It'll make ya smile, I promise!

4.16.2012

Little Hint or Total Surprise?

This weekend, I put on a cutesy new top, slipped on my cowboy boots and hopped into Jeff's truck. We met up with our friends, John and Jill for yummy margaritas, chips and queso, and the best enchiladas I've had in a hot minute!

Our conversations consisted of our Easter break, a group trip to Memphis, and upcoming business ventures. In the mix of it all, Jill asked my opinion on ring shopping. As many of you know, Jeff and I have been together for quite a while and I occassionally get asked, "When are y'all getting engaged?" to which I respond, "If you find out, don't tell me!"

I like surprises...No, no...I love surprises. That feeling you get when your heart jumps, and you laugh and cry uncontrollably. I. Love. That. Feeling. I may not love the awkward faces I make when showing my emotion but it's all worth it to me!


But, I know all belles are different. The element of surprise can make some anxious and uneasy. If you read the last page first in a book, you might be one of these people. And a lot of us girls would rather have a little input in the outcome of a surprise like an engagement. As far as a ring, you know what you like and you want it!

Here's the deal. I don't think there is a right or wrong answer to ring shopping. If y'all are both on the same page, do what'ya want! But as for me, all my beau needs to know is my ring size! (Which is a 5 1/2 if anyone wants to pass that tid-bit along)

And if all else fails, casually leave your 'Dream Ring' Pinterest board up on your computer when he stops by. Gotta get smart with it, belles!

Now, help a sister out. I want to know your opinion on all this hoop-la! Do ya want to go shopping with your beau for the rock or let him do the honors?

 Let me know what you prefer! Comment below and let your opinion be heard!



Have a wonderful week, loves! Be happy, smile often, love everyone!
xox

3.28.2012

Allye's Engagement at Aly's Beach

Ah... Ms. Allye. A beautiful girl with comparable humility is engaged and I couldn't miss the opportunity to hear more about it! Avoiding the fact that Allye and her fiancĂ©, Cameron are the cutest couple south of the Mason-Dixon line...I knew her story was going to be worth telling.  Prepare for chill bumps and a warm heart. 
This is better than buttered biscuits and sweet tea, belles and beaus.

Before we get started let's get to know you a little better! Got a favorite southern city?

My sweet home of Franklin, Tennessee of course! It truly doesn't get better  than the farmland, the sweet homes, and the charming shops in Franklin. 


Any southern comfort foods you flip over? 

I'm always on the look out for fried pickles. I crave starch- mashed potatoes, twice-baked potatoes, french fries... Oh, and I can't cook but I can make a mean pecan pie from scratch. (A girl who can down potatoes and bake pie is good in our book!) 


Tell us how this love story began

On the very first day of college classes! I was a nervous freshman, fifteen minutes late to the first class of my college education. I awkwardly stumbled into a room full of responsible, timely students- as all eyes were on me; he was the first person I noticed. Boy, was he cute! Lucky for me, the only open seat was next to him. I was too shy to strike up conversation, but fate would put us in the same project group a few weeks later. I was ecstatic. I'd notice him from across the cafeteria, I'd search for him at football games, I'd go places hoping he'd be there too. After our first real meeting, we connected instantly. We rushed through the 'just friends' stage and began dating in January of the following year. We've found it hard to spend one minute apart since. I laugh at how girlish and boy-crazy (not to mention infatuated!) I was when I first met him. I usually work really hard to appear calm and collected, but I was just too taken by him.


We're already melting inside, now tell us more about the guy! 

Cameron has the kindest, most gentle soul of any man I have ever met. He is bold and courageous in a humble and unassuming way. He loves me fearlessly and fully without any expectation of that love being returned. He gives me the space to be sad, to be angry, to feel hurt, but constantly encourages a joyful, laughter-filled, and forgiving relationship. He has healed the wounds of past relationships that left me feeling shameful and mistrusting by extending loving grace and complete selflessness. He is proud of me- he adores me in a way I didn't think was possible and cares for me in ways I certainly don't feel deserving of. I have learned from him, I have gotten to know my truest self because of him, and I have grown in beautiful ways since I have known him.


Now that we're all bursting with envy, how did Cameron propose? 

I'm a summer girl, so the beach is my happy place. My family, fiancĂ©, and I stayed in a house near Seaside, Florida for Spring Break this year. A few family members were staying down the beach, so we decided to meet up at Aly's Beach to take family pictures. Aly's Beach is a little slice of heaven in my mind. It's the perfect little seaside community with all white (yay!) homes and buildings. Cameron took me on a walk along the beach, as everyone else was supposedly getting ready to take pictures. As we walked he retold a sweet story from the beginning of our relationship and very nervously reminded me how much he loved me and how sure he was that he didn't want to spend a day without me. He got down on one knee and popped the question- it wasn't until later that he told me I didn't answer his questions for what felt like an eternity. I was shocked! Everyone came running down the beach and joined me with hugs, tears, and very loud screams. I am so thankful that I was able to celebrate such a special moment with family. 

We know you've got a great since of style! What's going to be the vibe at your wedding? 

A barefoot ceremony on the beach and an evening reception at Aly's. I want my guests to be comfortable, relaxed, and thoroughly enjoy themselves. Cameron and I like to keep it simple- we love good music, dancing, and yummy food. I want everything to be outdoors, everything to be lit up with bright lights, and everything to be white. I love old farm tables, cozy seating, candles, lanterns, and antique touches. I've got a shabby, rustic style and I hope our wedding will reflect that.


We love the all white theme! Any other colors you'll be incorporating? 

I know this goes against every rule of complimentary colors, but my favorite color combination is white and cream. I am a sucker for anything washed-out, pale, and creamy. My closet is primarily whites, off-whites, tans, pale blues, and grays. I would like our beach wedding to be calm, serene, and light, so my color palette will be totally white-washed! Right now I'm thinking white, cream, and a light robins-egg blue, but I wouldn't mind (small) pops of coral here and there- something fun to contrast all the white!

Any special or unique touches you'd like to incorporate? 

For the ceremony, we'd like to have a ukulele playing our favorite songs. Because Cameron and I are not just joining 'hands' but families and friends as well, our parents will be standing in front with us rather than watching from the aisle. There's a charming old-fashioned donut truck that serves homemade donuts at Aly's. We are hoping to have the donut truck at our reception rather than a cake. I love the idea of one or two long tables rather than several small tables, and since our wedding will have fewer guests we're hoping to have that family feel. Also, we'll have a cigar bar and a sangria bar for the guests enjoyment... we must have a cigar bar. I hope to incorporate many unique things into our wedding! We like to do things a little differently.


Thank you Allye for sharing your story with us! I think I speak for us all when I say you will make a beautiful bride! We can't wait to hear about your wedding, have fun planning, and take it all in!


-Xo
Belle of the Blog

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