So I have been seeing a little bit of talk about Pinterest here and there over the last three months or so. More recently, friends have been gabbing about it more and more, and my facebook wall is filled up with friend's Pinterest posts...so I decided I would take a closer look into the whole "Pinterest Addiction." The result of my investigation of this virtual-pin-board website is simple: OBSESSED!!!!! If you are a regular reader of this blog, or any wedding/home decor/diy blog for that matter, you already know that many have an Etsy addiction -- one of my fav go-to websites; however, that being said, I am thinking that Pinterest might just take the lead!
The whole idea behind Pinterest is both simple and ingenious: create a virtual "pin board" where you can link pictures of your favorite finds from around the web. The concept is similar to that of when you "bookmark" a favorite site or webpage. The problem with bookmarking is that is tends to become easily disorganized and only shows you the actual web address when listed - not visually pleasing nor easy to use. Pinterest took it a step forward and is like a HUGE bookmarking page with direct links and pictures. Best part (well actually there are like a 100 best parts, but one of them is...), Pinterest is set up to hold muliple pin board for multiple categories. So for example, if you are looking for wedding flowers around the web...all you have to do is "pin" the picture to your Pinterest account and move on to the next picture you like -- you could pin over 100s of flower pictures to you account. The let's say you are also looking for wedding dress pictures, well you can do the same process but pin the pics to your DRESS pin board instead of your FLOWER pin board - the organization and convenience is simply amazing and perfect for wedding planning, home decor searches, recipe books, and more! And last COOL thing I will mention, Pinterest's home page features all the recent things people have posted...so you do not have to even search the web to find AWESOME things!
I encourage EVERYONE, planning a wedding or not, to join Pinterest immediately!
http://pinterest.com/
I just joined so my pin boards are a bit blank, but with my wedding business and new home, I expect my page to fill up fast -- follow me at Kaylee Rosenberger
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Now That's Cool: VIII
Ahhh -- yes that is all I can say at this point. I have been so MIA on the blog lately, it is just ridiculous - but there is a reason why I just have not had time to sit and write lately! For one, we are buying a house! Yay :) Although I am so excited, as you can imagine, the whole "buying-a-house-pack-up-your-life" ordeal is kind of taking over my days! On top of that, I have several weddings in the works (which I am so excited to be a part of!)..one if this weekend! In a nutshell, I am just running around at a million miles an hour and unfortunately my blog updates have taken the brunt of it. Although the posts may be more sparse than usual during the month of October, they should be popping up more regularly in November - so be on the look out!
In the mean time, I will try to get some of my favorite pictures and finds from across the weddingsphere weekly! Here are my "Now That's Cool" moments of this week..enjoy!
In the mean time, I will try to get some of my favorite pictures and finds from across the weddingsphere weekly! Here are my "Now That's Cool" moments of this week..enjoy!
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Treasure Finds: Engagement Rings
I don't know about everyone else, but I feel like the majority of TV commercials are one of two things: prescription ads, lame attorneys, or cliche jewelry stores. You can only take so much before the "Every Kiss Begins With Kay" jingle starts running through your head. If you are like me, and one, tired of the same song, and two, wanting a ring that is not a copy cat mold, then you should take your jewelry shopping to Etsy land. Etsy has developed into a world of true craftsmenship. Artisans continually produce both unique and quality products that are found no where else.
I took a browse session over on Etsy this afternoon and not my surprise, I found some amazingly beautiful rings. The thing I love about Etsy is that there is something for everyone, literally. No matter what your style, taste, budget, or needs, Etsy seriously has it all. Check out some Treasure Finds below...these rings make Jared Jewelers look like a thing of the past. Links to the respective artisans are below as well -- true talent if you ask me!
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Modern Style
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Contemporary Style
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Vintage Style
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Alternative Style
Monday, September 26, 2011
Trend Alert: Flower Girl Fashionista's!
Like most things, the days of the white, puff-sleeved, big-bowed dress for your flower girl is out, and the oh-so-cute, stylized, accessory-covered ensemble is IN! If you thought that you, the BRIDE, were the only one that was to be dressed to a "T" on the BIG day, you are mistaken :)
Flower girl fashion seems to be straight off the runway (well that is if a "little girl's" runway were to exist), and these little one are wearing it so darn well! Putting more thought, time, and detail into what your little one's are wearing can be a big pay off on your BIG day. Although small in stature, the little girls are the last thing that comes down the aisle before you during the ceremony, and even though your entire wedding party will be looking quite dapper, a well dressed little one can add a whole lot more "eww's and ahh's." Naturally, as any little girl is, they are already too cute just by themselves, but throw on a fancy dress, a stunning halo hairpiece, a punch of color, and maybe even a tu-tu...you've got yourself a memorable wedding detail trotting down the aisle.
Here is an inspiration board showing how brides made their little flower girls a statement piece on their BIG day. The key is: don't hold back, you are at more liberty to rock the fashion trends and fun ideas on little one's - be FUN, CREATIVE, and CUTE!
Thursday, September 22, 2011
DIY: Chalkboard Plates!
I always try to be on the look out for projects that you can not only "do-yourself," but also that are easily manageable (both with time and effort!). Although there are countless ways to be a crafty chic for your BIG day, this DIY project just might win a "easiest ever" project award! I came across this picture when hunting down photos for the "Now That's Cool" post:
Not only can these chalkboard plates be used for wedding signs, but they are also great for shower gifts, wedding menus, table numbers, or anything else you would usually write down for display. Not only is this project easy to do, but it is SUPER inexpensive..here is how it goes:
Materials
Plates or Platters of Your Choice (be savvy, pick them up from a local thrift store, or out of your Grandma's attic)
Painter's Tape
Chalkboard Spray Paint
...and that is it, seriously (were are talking like $10 bucks here)
Instructions
Step 1: Lightly clean you plate/platter if needed. Use a dry cloth to rid surface of any loose particles.
Step 2: Use the painter's tape to tape off the section of the plate/platter that you DO NOT want "chalked"
Step 3: Once the borders are covered, use the chalkboard spray paint to paint your desired area
Step 4: Once dry, remove the tape, and begin writing!
....again, seriously, that is it...we are talking $10 or less and 5 minutes of your time for an AMAZINGLY cool and functional project!
Not only can these chalkboard plates be used for wedding signs, but they are also great for shower gifts, wedding menus, table numbers, or anything else you would usually write down for display. Not only is this project easy to do, but it is SUPER inexpensive..here is how it goes:
Materials
Plates or Platters of Your Choice (be savvy, pick them up from a local thrift store, or out of your Grandma's attic)
Painter's Tape
Chalkboard Spray Paint
...and that is it, seriously (were are talking like $10 bucks here)
Instructions
Step 1: Lightly clean you plate/platter if needed. Use a dry cloth to rid surface of any loose particles.
Step 2: Use the painter's tape to tape off the section of the plate/platter that you DO NOT want "chalked"
Step 3: Once the borders are covered, use the chalkboard spray paint to paint your desired area
Step 4: Once dry, remove the tape, and begin writing!
....again, seriously, that is it...we are talking $10 or less and 5 minutes of your time for an AMAZINGLY cool and functional project!
Here are some more examples! Enjoy, and as always, much love!
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Now That's Cool: VII
Unfortunately, again, the blog has been running behind - it has been CRAZY busy around here, but nevertheless, I HAD to post some amazing pictures I picked up across the web this week! Just to highlight a few:
- I am loving the unique gift favors of olive oil! I have seen honey done before, but never olive oil -- perfect for any cook!
- The robe with the couple's monogram and date is too cute! What a fun thing to wear around from that day forward.
- Okay, how freaking adorable is that dog with it's festive wedding hat?! So fun!
- The silver platters are such a fantastic DIY project -- look out for a "how to post" tomorrow!
- There are some well crafted cakes at the bottom - those are the kind that you just want to keep as an art piece!
- Although I do not have a whole back covering of tattoos - if that is your thing, TOTALLY go for the open back dress. Such a cool and colorful vibe.
- Last BUT not LEAST...please check out the most AWESOME blue shoes I have ever come across! These are simply fantastic...I wish I could have gotten a close up!
Have fun gazing through the board below! And as always, Much Love!
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Color Alert: Blue and Coral
With this weather going on outside, I am beginning to think my "summer" posts must come to a halt (and I am not complaining, it felt AMAZING out there today!). So to end the summer series of posts, I bring to you a trendy color combination - BLUE & COREL. These two hues, individually, are often combined with an other color out there...so why haven't we put them both together more? Coral and blue make me think of sitting on the back porch, enjoying a slight breeze, on the shores of South Caroline (why SC, I have no idea, it is just what comes to me with this color combo ha!). The great thing about these two hues is that is creates a very versatile palette for the BIG day. If you are having an early spring wedding, you can use the pastel shades of blue and coral...and if the BIG day is in the midst of summer, go with the BOLD! And since there are multiple variations of both blues and corals, mixing and matching tones is easy to do! So ladies, if this is one of your last days of summer, sit back, and enjoy the night breeze on your back porch...and check out a little inspiration below!
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Trend Alert: Statement Necklace
The blog is back in action - please excuse my mini hiatus, I took a little vacation time..which every girl needs right?! So I am starting things up with the latest trend going around...Statement Necklaces! Traditionally a bride wears one of three things...a pearl necklace, a diamond pendant, or no necklace at all, but as usual, brides are giving those necklaces a modern mix-up. Simple pearls have turned into bold beads and a single diamond has multiplied into a fully bedazzled accessory. While the traditional ways certainly present an understated elegance, a bold necklace can really complement your attire on the BIG day.
There are a couple rules of thumb when going with a statement necklace:
1. If you have a statement necklace, go with more simplistic earrings. Bold earrings accompanied by a big necklace is often overwhelming -- your guests want to see YOU!
2. Don't be afraid to use color! If your wedding has a color theme throughout, a statement necklace can be the perfect place to add a splash of that hue on you!
3. Mix-and-Match! Some of the best statement necklaces are those that are actually multiple necklace worn together (J.Crew stylists are masters at this!). Experiment with wearing two necklaces of complementing texture and style -- you could come up with a perfect combo!
4. Make sure the necklace is not HEAVY. Remember that you may be wearing this necklace for up to 12 hrs..and although it is supposed to be a "statement" it is not supposed to be a "drag!"
If you are loving this new trend and want to know how to get it, head on over to some great stylized websites. Check out what their models are wearing - more often than not, company style their models with at least two necklaces! For example, I found this necklace I absolutely loved on a website, and called the company to only find out that it was THREE necklaces they sold all worn together! J. Crew, Ann Taylor, Stella & Dot, and PiperLime are all great places to hunt down a statement necklace and Nordstrom is your best bet when it comes to department stores.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Now That's Cool: VII
I am not going to lie -- this week was the opposite of how stuff usually goes when preparing for "Now That's Cool" posts. Typically, I am saving a bazillion photos cause amazing stuff keeps popping up around the weddingsphere...but this week, it took me forever to find some amazing and inspirational stuff?! Maybe all the other wedding gurus around the web are having a crazy busy week like me, and just cannot find the time to get the blog posts up (it really has been a plain out crazy week for me, and unfortunately the blog has suffered a little, my apologies). Nevertheless, after some thorough exploring, I finally found all sorts of cool stuff! Here are some things to check out below:
- One of the first pictures is of a way-cool hair style that literally has a ribbon twisted within it - a modern braid for sure!
- I am LOVING the collection of vintage stamps used on the wedding invitation envelope, so eloquent and unique.
- I have absolutely NO IDEA what the harvest wedding cake is made of...but lord does it look scrumptious!!! Bring on Fall, I say!
- Try zooming in on the tag with a quote on it attached to the yellow throw petals. Such a cute poem if you can get a closer look!
- The pink "Party People" card is part of a fun couple's program, and all the wedding party is named throughout the cake graphic - so festive and modern.
- If you are wondering what those large and lit white things are... they are floating lanterns! This way-cool couple had a their guests participate in a send off that lit the sky - these lanterns float in the sky once lie, similar to a hot air balloon effect!
- At the end, you will see a cake with lots of intricate work on it -- the soft architecture created by buttercream and fondant make this dessert look to die for. And next door sits two super cute and custom made figurines as cake toppers - so creative!
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Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Registry Workshop: Management Wrap-Up
Time to wrap up the registry workshop -- the last thing on your registry to-do list is to manage it. So far, you have done your research, picked out your stores, loaded you list up with FABULOUS items, and the make it all come together, you have got to keep a constant eye on it! Managing your registry must be a continuous task while good through your wedding planning journey -- fortunately, with the amazing internet power, keeping tabs on your registry is pretty easy to do!
Once, registered, familiarize your self with the online registry tools at your given store. Every modern day store that offers a wedding registry will also offer online registry access. Most stores' online registry management format are similar to each other's; however, do some exploring on each individual site so that you can find the differences. More often than not, you can change quantities of items wanted with a simply click of a button -- which is a vital tool in managing your lists. Additionally, the online registry will be updated close to real time -- that way you can know what you have left on your registry at any given moment. Online management tools also allow you to update your shipping address, manage your thank you notes, and many actually offer a tool to monitor your registry automatically! Like I said before, the key is to get on there and check everything your store's online registry has to offer -- and take ADVANTAGE of these tools, they are sure to help! Here are some quick tips for registry management:
Once, registered, familiarize your self with the online registry tools at your given store. Every modern day store that offers a wedding registry will also offer online registry access. Most stores' online registry management format are similar to each other's; however, do some exploring on each individual site so that you can find the differences. More often than not, you can change quantities of items wanted with a simply click of a button -- which is a vital tool in managing your lists. Additionally, the online registry will be updated close to real time -- that way you can know what you have left on your registry at any given moment. Online management tools also allow you to update your shipping address, manage your thank you notes, and many actually offer a tool to monitor your registry automatically! Like I said before, the key is to get on there and check everything your store's online registry has to offer -- and take ADVANTAGE of these tools, they are sure to help! Here are some quick tips for registry management:
- Continually watch the quantities that are left on your registry, there are always things you may decide to request more of.
- ALWAYS check and update your registry after any bridal shower. Most likely, your list may be fairly depleted after a big party in honor of you...and it is important that there is always enough on there for the BIG day!
- Find the store's online management list -- this tool is a list of everything the store recommends that you need, including quantities and sizes. The site literally puts a check mark by the stuff that you have registered for and/or received, and then advises you on what you still need to add.
- Keep a close eye out on what type of items your guests are buying - remember back on the post for "What to Register For" and I mentioned that you always want to have items on there that covers all prices -- low, mid, and high price ranges. If you received a number to kitchen utensils (lower ended price) at a bridal shower, you may want to consider adding back some items in the lower range.
- Stay up on the trends and seasonal changes. Stores are always changing stock -- especially when it comes to the decor category. Bedding is another category that is strongly influence by seasonal changes. There is definitely a chance that the bedding you registered for in the beginning is no longer available at the time of your wedding - if this or a similar situation happens, just adjust your quantities and re-register for another selection.
- Check up on product reviews by other customers. Sometimes you will register for an item and later realize that it has not gotten good reviews. If you ever change your mind about a registry item, simply delete it, and add another one in place.
- Be aware that there are some items that are online exclusives or in-store items only. This factor may influence the accessibility of the item to your guests.
- Don't be afraid to change your mind! There are always things you are going to want and even NEED to add!
- Be sure to check out the website's "customer favorites" section! This is a list the store has complied of couple's mot popular registry items...great stuff to add.
- This is a big one: after the wedding date, go back and add any items you think you want, but were not originally registered for, to your registry. "Why?" you ask...well remember that REWARD system each registry store offers? You can anywhere from 10-20% off each item you personally buy off of your registry after the BIG day (usually up to 90 days after the event date!)
That about wraps it up! Make sure to head back to past Registry Workshop posts to get up-to-date on all the know-how! Look out for the next mini-series (TBA) and the popular Now That's Cool post tomorrow! Much Love.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Now That's Cool: VI
The Registry Workshop will wrap up at the beginning of next week...so if you have no idea what I am referring to, head back a couple of days and check out all you have missed thus far!
Finding pictures for this week's "Now That's Cool" was just way too easy this week! There were more "cool' pics out there than I knew what to do with (so once again, I am filing up that hardrive with pictures for another post!). First off, I noticed lots of amazing alters from some super creative brides! I did a past post on Alternative Atlars, and I only wish that I could have added some of the pictures below to that previous post. My favorite altar is the one that uses hanging candles from the ceiling and rustic, empty picture frames as the backdrop...like seriously, who thinks of that concept. Speaking of creativity, take a look at the pencil Save The Date a couple created --- talk about a unique way to remind your guests of the BIG day. Also down below, you will find a picture of a signature drink, and I do not know what the heck it is..but it sure looks super yummy. Be sure to zoom in on the wedding rings too! If you look close enough, you can see the intricate custom engraving (definitely some tedious work!). And of course, I always have to feature at least one adorable kid -- this little ring bearer is too cute! Lastly, in the spirit of the upcoming football season, I featured a photo of a wedding that offered rounds of corn hole to their guests (wish I was invited to that one!). As always, have fun, be inspired, and think creatively! Much Love!
Finding pictures for this week's "Now That's Cool" was just way too easy this week! There were more "cool' pics out there than I knew what to do with (so once again, I am filing up that hardrive with pictures for another post!). First off, I noticed lots of amazing alters from some super creative brides! I did a past post on Alternative Atlars, and I only wish that I could have added some of the pictures below to that previous post. My favorite altar is the one that uses hanging candles from the ceiling and rustic, empty picture frames as the backdrop...like seriously, who thinks of that concept. Speaking of creativity, take a look at the pencil Save The Date a couple created --- talk about a unique way to remind your guests of the BIG day. Also down below, you will find a picture of a signature drink, and I do not know what the heck it is..but it sure looks super yummy. Be sure to zoom in on the wedding rings too! If you look close enough, you can see the intricate custom engraving (definitely some tedious work!). And of course, I always have to feature at least one adorable kid -- this little ring bearer is too cute! Lastly, in the spirit of the upcoming football season, I featured a photo of a wedding that offered rounds of corn hole to their guests (wish I was invited to that one!). As always, have fun, be inspired, and think creatively! Much Love!
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Registry Workshop: Pick 'em Right
So you have done your research, you have picked your stores, and your following the all the "do's and don'ts"...I would say you are on a pretty stellar track to having a successful registry! Only a couple more things to cover in the Registry Workshop and you are on your own! Let us get on to the fun part...actually CHOOSING what you want! Like I said before, think as it as telling Santa exactly what you want (cannot complain there right!).
Choosing what items to register for can seem like a whole bunch of fun from the get go, but beware, do it right from the start, otherwise you can easily get a little "lost in translation." First of, I recommend making a plan for your self, or at least a brief assessment of your WANTS v. your NEEDS. It is important to register for your NEEDS first...you can always add your WANTED items later down the line. For example, if you need flatware, but really want this decorative pillow...it is obviously more important that some gets you all the flatware before the pillow is considered. The last thing you want is to have a bunch of stuff you only wanted, but are left to buy all the things you actually needed. Fortunately, your wants and needs will often overlap - so getting down to the nitty gritty of it all will come naturally. An easy way to plan out your registry is to make a list of all the rooms in your apartment, townhome, or house -- then, make a list of what you need or don't have for each room - that way, you will have an overall picture of what needs to go on your official list.
Once you have your general "plan" it is also good to look over a list of recommended registry items. Here are a couple of sites that have checklists of all items you might possibly need, and the quantity they reccommend that you should request:
These lists are GREAT tools, and easily outline what the average person needs to register for. That being said, you most likely will NOT need to register for absolutely everything on there - however, you it as an overall guide (and cross out things you do not need) for your registry trip. For example, if you do not have a guest bedroom, you probably do not need to register for extra duvets and pillows, or if you have a set of pots from college, you may not need to put those on there either. Bottomline: use your list, plan, and discretion as a guide...it will save you tons of guess work and wasted effort!
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This is kind of a side note, but one of the biggest registry dilemmas for modern brides is whether or not to register for fine china. Fine china and silver used to be an absolute custom on any wedding registry; however, this standard has fallen off over the years. Today, many brides choose not to register for fine china, crystal, and flatware: (1) because today's gatherings are more casual, (2) china is an expensive gift that may not allow for some of the other items you want to get bought, and (3) many brides are in line to inherit china from a parent or grandparent. Nevertheless, registering or not registering for fine china, silver, and crystal is 100% up to you, your situation, and your taste. Either way you go is excepted it these times!
Monday, August 22, 2011
Registry Workshop: Registry Etiquette
As if there were not enough "do's and don'ts" that goes along with everything wedding...but yes, there too is wedding registry etiquette. Fortunately, a complete list of registry etiquette can easily be laid out, and as long a you check off the following, you will be sure to not step on anyone's toes :) Here it goes...
The Do's
- Start registering early. It is never too early too early to start scanning! Why? Well, for starters, it helps get a big thing off your "to-do" list early. Secondly, it allows you guests to check out your "wants" from the get-go -- more time for guests to look out for sale prices, seasonal changes, and map out what they want to get you.
- Register for expensive things! Although you want to register for a range of prices, do not be afraid to have a couple high priced items on your registry. Even if you think no one will buy it for you, more often than not, someone WILL - or they will go in on a gift jointly with another couple. The point of registry is to start you and your man off with things your don't have, but WANT & NEED - so put those dream items on there!
- Register for more than you think! Tomorrow I will go more in depth on what to register for, but definitely know that you will need to register for way more than you think right off the bat. With showers lined up before the wedding, your guests will be flying through your list fast.
- Provide your guest with a list of all the places you registered. Whether you list it on a wedding website, a Facebook page, or any invitation, make sure your guests KNOW where to shop! Typically a small line such as, "the bride and groom are registered at..." will suffice.
- Register for gift certificates. Most of the time, you can register for gift certificates from the store you are registered at. Gift certificates are easy gifts to give, and even more easy to use (trust me, the more gift certificates, the better!)
- Register at a minimum of 2 places and a maximum of 4 stores. This number of places gives your guests some freedom to shop, as well as, YOU some freedom of choice on items. The average person registers at 3 stores.
- Register for the most essential items first -- meaning, register for things you need first, and add things you want as guests start buying off the products that were essential (check in tomorrow for a closer look at this Do!)
The Don'ts
- Do not register later than 3 months before your wedding date. As stated before, the earlier the better - however, if it is not a priority, make sure you still give your guests enough time to get their gifts together - anything under 3 months is no good.
- Do not register at LOCAL stores only. Although small boutique stores offer a registry, make sure that you are registered at atleast one store that has a NATIONAL market presence. Your registry needs to be accessible and "shoppable" by guests all over.
- Do not ask for money ONLY. This "don't" is a controversial one -- many will tell you that asking for money only is ok in this day in time, but I say it is not. Asking for gift cards on a registry is perfectly fine, and if people give you money of their own, that is great as well; HOWEVER, plain out saying that you only want money can easily come off as tacky and offensive. Guests can often feel embarrassed to give an exact dollar amount to you -- many rather buy a gift who's worth is more valued on "functionality."
- Do not choose items that are on clearance -- now take a close look at this one, CLEARANCE is different that SALE. Registering for items on SALE means typically means there is a temporary discount on the item..no big deal. CLEARANCE, typically means that the items is discounted because it is going out of stock, out of season, or being discontinued.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Now That's Cool: V
This week the web was full of fabulous styling! When it comes to having a highly stylized wedding, it is all about the intricate details. Whether it be the simple pink balloon you hold for an artsy photograph or to oh-so-sweet "I Do" tags you tie to the wedding favors -- these are the small things that can make a BIG difference. Check out the adorable flower girl too! Someone sign her up for Vogue or something! I am also loving the "happy tears hankies" for guests -- what a sweet spin! Further down you will find a super cool cupcake tree that is literally that...a TREE!? I also picked up a photo of something I have never seen at a wedding before -- wristlet corsages for the bridesmaids -- what a convenient and comfortable idea for your girls! Last, and certainly not least, my favorite -- the napkin shaped in a bow tie! If you are having a country-club styled wedding, this detail could be the ticket! Enjoy!
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
Registry Workshop: Where's The Place For You?
***If you missed the start of Lucky In Love's Registry Workshop, click here to head back to yesterday!***
Registering at the right place for you is vital to your overall satisfaction when your BIG day is all over and done with. There are several factors that go into choosing the right registry spot and it is important to take each factor into consideration. The objective is make your registry one that you love and that your guests are willing to buy at, and here is how it is done:
Style
Obviously you want to choose a store that offers a products with your style. Don't feel like you have to register at a the same place everyone else does, rather, choose a place that you would happily fill your home with. Here are some of the styles offered at the most popular stores:
Classic Traditional: Macy's, Khol's, Dillards, Bed-Bath-and-Beyond
Contemporary: Crate & Barrell, Macy's, Bed-Bath-and-Beyond, Target
Modern Traditional: Pottery Barn, Williams Sonoma, Restoration Hardware
Product Variation
Choose a place that offers products you need and ones you want. For example, if already have lots of kitchen stuff, but really need furniture...Macy's is probably not the best place. Or, lets say you really like the Martha Stewart Brand utensils, make sure your registry spot carries the line (aka not Pottery Barn). Product variation really ties into your desired style - make sure what you need and what you like coincide. Also, be sure to make note of both in-store and on-line items -- some stores offers certain items exclusively on-line and vice-versa.
Price Variation
Out of respect for your guests, make sure your chosen spot of registery offers of items at different price levels. Every guest can afford different priced items, therefore, choose a place that offers a little something for everyone. Although we would like to think so, no everyone you invite will want to buy you that $300 Kitchen Aid mixer ha ha (but hopefully there will be at least one generous soul out there right?).
Location
Looking at the location on the store is crucial if you invited a lot out of town guests. Macy's and Target are found in most major cities, but more specialty stores...even Bed-Bath-and-Beyond is not as many place as you may think. Although out of town guests can typically order things online, shipping and handling fees can get crazy expensive -- and lots of time, people like to look at things in an actual store.Rewards & Returns
This is an often overlooked, but can be extremely beneficial to you at the end of the process. Each store that offers a wedding registry also offers a rewards program. These rewards programs are put in place to help with the purchase of any remaining items on your registry - but you have to look at the details to see which places have the best offer. Some give you 10% off for 90 days after your event date, others offer 20% off for 60 days after the event date..one is not necessarily better than the other, it just depends on personal preference. Another big factor is a store's return policy. More than likely, as long as an item was bought off your registry, the store will allow you to return it with and without a reciept (for store credit); however, there are some places that will actually give you CASH for any returns off your registry!!! (insider tip: they do not advertise this, but Bed-Bath-and-Beyond offers cash back for registry returns if you request it from management).Again, be sure to take all the above elements into consideration when choosing your place of registry -- together, these tools can help you choose a place full of things you love and products your guests can buy with ease. Be sure to browse the store's selection before you start scanning - know what you are getting into :) Check back with Lucky In Love next week for more Registry Workshop and a look at Registry Etiquetter (who knew that existed!?)
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