Happy 2010! What the future holds...

First, I want to wish everyone a Happy New Year!

It's nice to be able to hit the "refresh" button every 365 days.

2009 brought a lot of changes in my life, both personally and professionally. I am truly greatful for my little Isabella that I welcomed in April. She and Emma are the reason I put one foot in front of the other.

I am also grateful for the friendships I have formed in the business community this past year. These people are inspiring, and I truly appreciate their willingness to listen and give advice. I hope I can pay it forward in the years to come.

Lastly, I want to thank all my clients I had the pleasure of getting to know and work for in 2009. I work so closely with my couples, that they truly do become my friends after the wedding. In fact, I have plans to meet up with my former clients this summer on my trip to Chicago.

Looking ahead to 2010:

I am making a commitment to myself to meet more fantastic people in the community this year. Through networking and attending community events, I can't wait to meet more inspirational, forward thinking individuals.

2010 is going to bring additional staff members to Events Refined. I brought on Lindsey at the tail end of wedding season this year, and she is going to be my "right hand woman" beginning the first of the year. She is going to be a wonderful additional to the Events Refined family, and I can't wait for the opportunity to work with her.

I am also looking forward to all the things I can't predict or plan for in 2010. Sometimes the best things in life are the things you never saw coming.

Here's to 2010! Stay tuned for upcoming events announced in January!

Third times the charm, right?

When I started my own business, I offerred errand running services, personal assitant services, dog/home services, etc. The name, My Girl Friday was a great name that reflected all the services I offerred.

A year later, I decided to focus solely on event planning. My Girl Friday didn't really fit the bill anyone, so I brainstormed a new name and decided to re-brand my company. I am all about creating an event that reflects the person it's for, so "Signature Events" was a great choice. Bella means beautiful in French, and I had just had my second daughter and named her Isabella. So, Bella Signature Events was born. Just as every person who is brainstorming ideas for their business should, I checked with the USPTO (United States Patent and Trademark Office) website. I checked their database for the business name I was interested in, and as luck would have it, nobody had trademarked Bella Signature Events. Score! Bella Signature Events was my new business name, and the rest was history.

Wel, the rest was history until a month ago. I was contacted by a company out on the westcoast called Bella Signature Design. They have been doing business as that name for over a decade and have service marked that name. They explained to me that Bella Signature Events is close enough to Bella Signature Design, and since they own the rights to that name, I need to cease and desist. Too bad the USPTO website didn't explain that to me. Hence the reason one should ALWAYS hire a lawyer when setting up a business. Another lesson learned the hard way. Not my first and it probably won't be my last. Incredibly frustrating, but I will move on!

So, time to think of a THIRD name for my business. There were quite a few business names I was throwing around when I was brainstorming Bella Signature Events. Events Refined had been in the running, but it took second place. I liked the idea of incorporating a family name into my business name, hence the reason Bella Signature Events took first. However, after being reminded by MANY people how my Emma might be angry that I didn't name the business after her, I decided the third time around it would be best to leave family member's names out of the business name. So, Events Refined it is. I hope you enjoy the new business name. There are also some new (and very exciting I must say) events that I will get to announce right after the New Year. Stay tuned!

Last Chance!

Today is your LAST CHANCE to puchase tickets to the 5 Course Beer Tasting Dinner. For more information scroll down the page - and to purchase tickets visit www.bellasignatureevents.com/events.html

Better than a fresh pack of Crayola Crayons....

Margo and Zack's Wedding

Margo wanted to have a beautiful fall "themed" wedding, without it looking like there was going to be a hayrack ride after dinner. I think we accomplished that.

Margo and Zack both spent the afternoon keeping themselves calm (each in their own way).

They had the ceremony and reception at the Country Club of Lincoln. I loved working with Julie and her team. I hope we have the opportunity to work together again soon!.

Heidi Beran provided the ceremony music on her harp! It sounded awesome, she is incredibly talented.

The uber talented Conrad from Stem Gallery created the centerpieces, aisle decor, and altar arrangements, and Char from Charlene's Bridal and Event Rentals provided the chair covers and linens.

A couple days before the wedding, it was realized that the escort cards were not going to work as we had originally intended them to. So, three days before the wedding I got my hands on 175 wine corks and constructed escort card holders out of them. They blended in well with the rest of the decor. Christopher and his team from Porridge Papers created all the paper (and printing) for the wedding. The invitations rocked - they were made out of plantable paper. Instead of tossing the invitation after the wedding, guests could plant their invitation and wildflowers would sprout! How eco-friendly and awesome is that!?

Zack had a slightly untraditional wedding party - instead of a Best Man he had a Best Woman. Let me tell you, I think EVERY groom should have a Best Woman in his bridal party. We loved Kate!

Immediately following the ceremony, David Dale (thanks David (and Chris!)for the photos!!) stole Zack and Margo for a private photo session. Margo and Zack wanted to have some time alone to let the fact that they just had gotten MARRIED settle in. This was the perfect way to get that alone time, and get some rad photos taken. Apparently David had taken some time off from shooting weddings - but you couldn't tell from all his awesome photos he took! He definitely has an artistic eye when taking shots.

After they were done shooting photos, it was time for dinner and dessert. Zack is a horseshoer so it made sense to have an anvil for the grooms cake. Linda Hudson (Butterfly Bakery) created this masterpiece.

The rest pf the night consisted of Kala and Ryan keeping the dance floor rocking all night long, and a vodka and red bull hour (free vodka and red bulls for an hour) that really kicked the party up a notch! Kala and Ryan are two of the most personable emcees/deejays I have EVER met. I can't wait to work with them again.

The night ended with Zack and Margo being whisked away to the Magnolia Hotel in a sedan from Luxury Limousine.

Thanks for letting me be a part of your special day - and I wish you two the best of luck in the future!

Client Insight: Heidi McLaughlin

1. Why did you hire a wedding planner to assist you in planning your wedding?
We live out of state and needed someone to organize and coordinate vendors and to help the day run smoothly. Also because I needed to maintain my sanity ;)

2. What was something that surprised you about the planning process?

How nice it was to have someone taking care of the details and keeping me on task throughout the year. It was nice to know that someone else was helping to make sure everything got accomplished.

3. What percentage of the decisions regarding the wedding was made by you? Your husband? Jointly?
By me...30%, by Festy...20, Both...50%

4. Is there anything you would have done differently? Shifted any of your priorities?

No...it was PERFECT!!! (happy sigh!!)

5. When you think back on your wedding day, what is your favorite memory?
Looking at everyone having a fun time; being relaxed and celebrating with our family and friends.

6. Anything else you would like to add?
Having Sara as our planner was amazing. She became more of a friend than a helper/planner and we could tell she had our best interests in mind and listened. She really took time with us and made us feel comfortable and we loved having her there. She ROCKS!!!! and we hope to keep in touch with her in the future.

Client Insight: Margo Hamilton

1. Why did you hire a wedding planner to assist you in planning your wedding?

Zack and I have never planned a wedding, so we thought, who better to help us through the myriad of appointments, choices, and expectations than a professional. We knew we would never make it through the process without help mediating families, and keeping us on track.

2. What was something that surprised you about the planning process.
That a wedding is an intricate creature. No matter how casual, or fancy, detailed, or personalized your wedding may be, everyone wants to know every detail down to the smallest thing. Most times, the bride has to decide, which is at times, more irritating than one imagined possible, but none the less, necessary.

3. What percentage of the decisions regarding the wedding was made by you? Your husband? Jointly?
Our wedding was about 95% jointly planned between Zack and I.

4. Is there anything you would have done differently? Shifted any of your priorities?
I would have really hounded people for their guest lists earlier than I did, perhaps been more pushy than I was with our parents.

5. When you think back on your wedding day, what is your favorite memory?
Seeing Zack at the altar in his kilt.

6. Anything else you would like to add?
It takes more than a bride and a groom to make a wedding happen. Be kind to your providers, and try to realize they are human beings too, with opinions which are at times more educated than your own. Its a wedding, not a nuclear missile launch, don't stress over details, or forget your manners just b/c you are at wits end.

Jazz it Up - Holiday Parties

Party at your party. {Leave the details to us.}


You work hard all year long, and before you know it you should be planning the annual company holiday party. However, you don’t have extra time to devote to this, so you plan the same dinner party with the same food and the same entertainment at the same place as you did the last 10 years. We don’t blame you – planning parties isn’t your thing – running your business is. Lucky for you, planning parties is OUR thing, and we would love to plan your next holiday party. Let us jazz it up a bit and you’ll really show your staff how appreciative you are of everyone.

If you have a staff of 12 or 1200 – we can orchestrate a party they won’t forget. We will coordinate with the best venues, caterers, entertainers, etc. to create a holiday event your employees will WANT to attend! All you will have to do is show up and the leave the details to us!

Contact us today for your free consultation. We will discuss your priorities, vision and budget and find the best way to achieve it all!

Private Husker Parties

Keep warm and bring the tailgating inside!!

Party in warmth before the Oklahoma and Kansas State home games. We have a private prime location (couple minutes away from the stadium) for you and your guests to enjoy awesome food and great drinks before kickoff. If you don't have tickets to the game - no problem. Everyone is more than welcome to stay and watch the game!

Everything will be taken care of - food, drinks, transportation, etc. We offer a diverse menu of food and beverages and can find something for any budget.

All you have to do is show up and cheer on the Huskers!

Contact us today - availability is limited

If you are looking to really add the WOW factor to your wedding ceremony or reception... look no further. Theatrical Media Services are the people to call! Pat is willing to work within your budget and get you the look you want. The following photos are from a wedding a couple weeks ago. My clients were married in a movie theater, and needed functional lighting since movie theaters are dark (who knew, right?). They got functional lighting and really awesome creative lighting too.

Seriously, all you brides need to call Pat and see what he can do to make your reception venue look top notch!



Thanks to Micheala from Something New Productions for the awesome photos!

Therese and her flowers

I spoke with Therese about 5 weeks before her wedding. She lives over 1000 miles away from Lincoln but was getting married here. She had a couple vendors left to book and needed my help.
She wanted flowers for the chapel and needed her bouquet and the attendant’s flowers designed and made, and she gave me a budget to work with. Working quickly, I think we achieved what she wanted.
This is what Conrad from Stem Gallery designed:

I want to give Conrad special thanks for helping us out with such short notice – you’re the best!

One word: FUN.

Heidi and Festy are such fun, laid back and creative people. I had such a fun time working with Heidi on the details of the wedding – she had such awesome ideas and willingness to think outside the box.

They had originally wanted to be married out at her grandparent’s farm. However, Nebraska weather is never predictable and she didn’t want to run the risk of inclement weather on her wedding day. (The weather on the wedding day ended up being absolutely BEAUTIFUL – however, the day before the wedding was very COLD with high WINDS). Good thing she chose the movie theater.

Heidi constructed the marriage ceremony herself, highly personalizing every aspect. This was truly a marriage ceremony about Heidi and Festy. Her cousin Heather became ordained and was able to officiate the wedding for the couple. How cool. With a few readings (one being from the Velveteen Rabbit) and a guitar performance, and a hand tying ceremony, and a kiss to seal the deal – it was off to Lincoln to begin the party at Chez Hay. And party is what everyone did.

After dinner and toasts, and an impromptu toast from the father of the bride (not a dry eye in the place) the dancing commenced. Heidi and Festy had QUITE a few close friends (they were really just like family) travel from Chicago to celebrate. You could tell this group knew how to have fun, there was dancing and laughing all night long. You could feel the happiness and excitement in the room.

Thank you Heidi and Festy for letting me be a part of such a special day. I’ll look you up when I am in Chicago next!

Vendors:

Bella Signature Events

Rivoli Movie Theater

Something New Productions - thanks for the photos - you rock!

Theatrical Media Services

Luxury Limousine

Stem Gallery

Chez Hay

Sweet Art Wedding Cakes

A Sound Impression – DJ

Best Styles Formalwear

Client Insight

I asked Sally to answer a few questions, and here we have it.


Here we go:

1. Why did you hire a wedding planner to assist you in planning your wedding?
We live in CT and planned to get married in Nebraska. Both of us have extremely demanding jobs therefore; we knew we could not devote the necessary time and efforts it takes planning for a wedding.
2. What was something that surprised you about the planning process? The amount of details involved as well as time it takes.
3. What percentage of the decisions regarding the wedding was made by you? Your husband? Jointly? Made by the Bride – 50%, Made by the Groom – 5%, Jointly – 45%.
4. Is there anything you would have done differently? I would have un buttoned the bottom of my skirt so I had the short train at the church….. I would have made sure the DJ kept the lights on during our wedding dance and relatives performances, I would have asked the DJ to shut off the flashing lights as it was a nuisance to the guests, I would have lost weight instead of gained weight………… Shifted any of your priorities? All in all it was just a few minor things (except the weight piece) – nothing major – oh, I probably would have spent a little less on flowers and a little more on food. I would have had a buffet instead of a sit down dinner – takes too much effort in asking for the guests choice. OR perhaps I would have NOT given them a choice and gave them all Chicken or half and half.
5. When you think back on your wedding day, what is your favorite memory?
Outside of my 50 year old cousin Tom slow dancing with my 30 year old friend Daryl who has a disability, I would say my favorite memory was Vernon’s speech at the reception, followed by my son’s toast via the telephone from Fort Knox, then followed by Vernon’s daughters toast at the reception.
6. Anything else you would like to add? Absolutely! There is no way this event could have been pulled off this successful if it wasn’t for my wedding planner. Sara paid attention to every detail, kept everything on track and on schedule, remained calm and very professional when the DJ’s sound system (a vendor that I selected) failed and implemented a back up plan immediately that ended up very successful. Not only did Sara tend to every detail, she was the only one that asked me (the bride) if I had a way to the church and then picked me up and drove me there personally. She assisted with helping the bridal party get dressed – had bobby pins and safety pins ready, etc. Sara was the first to arrive at the church and the last to leave the reception. As my wedding song goes…. “I could not ask for more”! She took all the stress off of me and was worth every penny….. Which was extremely reasonable.

The day started at Christ United Methodist Church in which Vernon’s brother David Gauge Veira performed “Hands High” and had all of the guests on their feet with their hands in the air! Sally’s cousin Trevor Racine also had an amazing performance! What a talented family. Sally and Vernon made a point to embrace the blending of their two families and honored each and every family member. Pastor Jim Miller officiated the wedding, and coordinator Sharon Nilsson helped send everyone down the aisle. We couldn’t have done it without them!

After the ceremony, they took a Harley Davidson Limousine to Wilderness Ridge to start the party.
Sally and Vernon had a choreographed first dance that the wonderful Cali Hlavac from A Sound Impression captured on film. You can check out the video on her blog. She also single-handedly saved the day! The DJ had a malfunction of his equipment and she was unable to play any of the special songs – included the choreographed first dance music! Without a second thought, Cali ran to her office and gathered all the necessary equipment to allow the night to go on without interruption. THANK YOU CALI!!!!
The very creative Misty from Sweet Art Wedding Cakes provided the elegant (and colorful) cakes for the evening. There were 5 flavors and they all tasted de-lish! Anne and her crew from the Midtown Hy-Vee provided all the beautiful flowers for the day.
The very talented and sweet Jamy Sullivan took the photos of the day. She suggested Sally and Vernon take a “Where’s Waldo” photo – in which all of their guests surround them on the dance floor and she captured a big group shot. I think it turned out awesome! Thanks Jamy for all the great photos!

Everyone danced the night away until a limo whisked them away to the Cornhusker Hotel.
I had a great time working with Sally and Vernon – they are two very dynamic individuals and I am so pleased they chose me to be a part of their big day! I wish them the best of luck in the future – and hope to see them around town someday!

Wedding Recap

Hello!

I hope everyone enjoyed their long Labor Day weekend. Two clients of mine got married over the weekend, and the weather was gorgeous! The air conditioning went out in the sanctuary of their church a couple months ago. It was not set to be fixed before they got married, so we were hoping for cool weather. Lucky for everyone, the temperature in the sanctuary stayed fairly mild; I didn't see anyone break a sweat!

It was the first Husker game of the season, and it never even crossed my mind that there was a game going on. All the RSVP'd guests showed up, and all attention was on the bride and groom the entire night. (I did receive notice at the end of the night that the Huskers did win - Woohoo!)

I really enjoyed working with these to on their wedding. It was great to meet all their family - everyone was so personable and inviting. Weddings do bring out the best in people - and I loved being a part of it.

**I want to give a shout out to Cali - with A Sound Impression. She was there catching everything on video when the DJ's equipment (from another company) was not working correctly. Cali also offers DJ services and she had equipment back at the office that we could use. While everyone was eating, she ran to the office and got her equipment. Her equipment ran smoothly, and the rest of the night went great. THANKS CALI FOR SAVING THE NIGHT!!

Once my clients get home from their honeymoon I will post some pictures and their client interview.

Happy Planning!

Okay Ladies, listen up. You found the perfect guy and you know you want to marry him. We all know love has nothing to do with the carat of the diamond, or the place he proposes..... but it sure makes the love sweeter. So, if you think your boyfriend could benefit from a little guidance and creativity, have him give us a call. We will help create a proposal that will knock your socks off, and if he needs help picking out the ring... we can do that to. :)


So, have him call 402.486.3793 OR visit www.makehersayyes.net or email sara@bellasignatureevents.com


Good luck ladies!

plan B and thinking outside the box

I received inspiration from two of my clients a couple days ago to write this post. They had originally planned to get married on her grandfather's farm. It would have been a beautiful (and meaningful) setting, but Nebraska weather is just too darn unpredictable. So, they came up with Plan B.

They are now getting married inside of a movie theater. It's an old historic movie theater that has been updated (think plush purple reclining seats)and has tons of charm. Not your traditional locale to get married, but an awesome place, none the less.

When the guests arrive they will be greeted by bags of popcorn and handed a playbill that will list the "cast" members.

The owners of the theater were SOO happy to host this wedding at their beloved movie theater. We could not have done this without their willingness to be flexible and make it work. I can't wait to see how the pictures turn out - I will be sure to post some pictures so maybe you can gain some inspiration from their unusual ceremony site!

I have to thank my clients for thinking outside of the box for plan B. I think they have come up with awesome ideas that have in turn sparked my creativity. I can't wait for the big day!

My lovely bride-to-be Margo has accepted the opportunity to become a guest blogger. She is willing to share her insight as we trek through this planning process. Enjoy!

Take The I Out of Bride

Margo A. Rehm ( Hamilton )

If I am to believe We “Television for Women” and its plethora of bridal shows, I’m going about this whole process all wrong. I don’t refer to October 17, 2009 as MY DAY , I haven’t engaged in screaming matches with my bridesmaids. I don’t obsessively call my fiancé and chastise him for not taking more interest in the wedding color scheme. I don’t have a tiara or request to be called a princess. Our bridal party is not large enough to fill a lecture hall. Our wedding reception will not be suff oca ted by pink or Tiffany blue. I’m not refinancing anything, or maxing out credit cards so that our Cinderella’s Carriage-shaped wedding cake can be pulled by ice-sculpture horses. Generally speaking, I refrain from yelling obscenities at vendors, or my lovely wedding planner.

Nope. Clearly I’ve got this whole thing all wrong. According to popular lore about brides, yes, I’m screwing this whole thing up. I really should be taking advantage of all these people who are catering to MY NEEDS and desires. Yes, because that is what weddings are supposed to be about. Making the bride happy, not upsetting the bride. Doing exactly as the bride would have you do on all accounts, precisely when she asks or else!

Personally, I think making your wedding day “all about me” is pretty much the dumbest thing you could do. Correct me if I’m wrong, but a wedding is a ceremony, and a celebration of TWO people coming together before their family and friends. It’s about relationships; why as a bride its okay to destroy your relationships prior to the event is beyond me. Because we’ve all seen those shows, do you really want to be that bridesmaid who has to go in for a weight check 2 weeks before the wedding? Is that the tone you want at your ceremony?

Forget it. I’m excited about our wedding. I can’t wait for October 17, 2009 . After months of planning and work with everyone it will be simply amazing to see everything together, live and in person. Throughout this whole process my future husband and I have both agreed, the exchange of vows is the most important thing, a very close second is providing a nice party for all our friends and family. At the end of the day so long as I’m married to my man, and the people who attend have a great time our wedding will be a rousing success. This day is about love, and family, not me or my hair.

Of course I’ve had my moments. Every now and again my Mom and I get into it over something. My fiancé still won’t stop bitching about the harpist at our ceremony. (Seriously, if I have to hear about the damn harp one more time I might scream, he’s not even gonna hear it, he’ll have the jitters so bad standing at the alter.) Even so, it’s been an experience of a lifetime. Lacking bridal blowouts though I may be, I’m totally in love with our wedding. Don’t be fooled by my lackadaisical attitude. From our reception hall to our, DJ, the flowers, food, my dress; it’s all amazing. I really can’t believe its happening; I can’t wait to share this day with everyone.

Hello!!

My Girl Friday has been changed to Bella Signature Events - and you can check out our new blog at www.bellasignatureevents.blogspot.com and our website at bellasignatureevents.com.

We hope to see you there!!

Sara Brown

Welcome!

Welcome to Bella Signature events!

We are passionate about creating timeless events that are as unique as our clients. We specialize in crafting a cohesive design in all the elements and details of your wedding day. The wedding that is created will truly be reflective of you and your fiance and the love that is shared between you two.

It is also important that a bride and groom not be bothered by imperfections on their wedding day. The cake may arrive late and the ring bearer may need a nap, but the bride and groom won't be privy to that information with Bella Signature Events in attendance. We limit the amount of imperfections that arise on your wedding day, and put out any "fires" that may come along. It's not often couples throw parties where a dozen vendors need to coordinate their schedules and duties. It's not an easy task, and sometimes the small details get overlooked. This is where we will step in and close the gap where one vendor's duties ended, and another vendor's duties began. You truly will be a guest at your own wedding.

We are professional. We keep up to date with the latest trends and create new ones. We are always learning. We are creative. We are passionate about throwing parties that no one will forget but everyone will talk about. We are limitless. We know no boundaries (except those that exceed the budget). We want to spark friendship and watch two people fall deeply in love. We want to see the future in the events we create today.

We want to meet you, the love of your life, and the person who grounds you (usually a parental figure). We want to talk about your vision for the day and how you want to make people feel. When you evoke emotion at events (whether it be excitement, happiness or contentment) people remember. We want to team up with you and our fabulous group of top notch vendors to create a day that is so fabulous you will already start planning for the vow renewal.

Contact us today, we can't wait to hear from you.

Sara Brown
Owner, Bella Signature Events

Marriage License

Before the big day - you and your husband-to-be will need to obtain a marriage license. Here is all the information you need to know. This is taken directly from lincoln.ne.gov website. (http://www.lincoln.ne.gov/cnty/clerk/marriage.htm)

Lancaster County Clerk
Marriage License Requirements
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
•Fee of $15.00 in cash or check
•Proof of identity/age: A Driver's License or Passport
Statute 42-104 states "Each party shall present satisfactory documentary proof and shall swear or affirm to the application giving: (1) Full name of each applicant and residents: and (2) the place, date and year of birth of each."

It is customary in this office to require a photo ID as "satisfactory documentary proof" of identity. Driver's licenses, state id's, passports and green cards are satisfactory. A birth certificate by itself cannot positively establish identity.

•Applicants must verbally supply Social Security numbers if they have one.
•License is good for one year from date of application any place in Nebraska and there is no waiting period (you have one year to use the license to get married, if not, it will expire and you will need to come in and reapply)
•Applicants must supply the names of their parents (including mother's maiden name), and their parent's birthplaces
•If applicant(s) has been married previously, the date the previous marriage ended will be requested (Court date or date of death). If your divorce is in the State of Nebraska, there is a waiting period of six months and one day after it is granted by a Judge. An applicant must wait until the waiting period is over before they can apply for a marriage license anywhere in the State of Nebraska.
•If either applicant is not of legal age (19), a notarized consent form must be signed by the person's legal guardian giving consent to the marriage of the minor. If either applicant is under 17 years of age, license cannot be issued in the State of Nebraska. After selecting the Consent Form, it will load into Acrobat Reader, which will allow you to fill it out on-line then print it out.
if you do not yet have it installed on your computer.
•In order for either applicant to change their last name they will need to purchase a certified copy for $5.00, which can be pre-paid at the time of getting the marriage license. We would mail your certified copy out to you after we have received the license and certificate of marriage back from the person who performed the ceremony and have processed it (usually takes 3 to 5 days). You will need to take the certified copy with you to the 2 main name change offices - the Social Security Office and the Driver's License Bureau. It is not required that the $5 be paid at the time of getting the marriage license, but if you plan on changing your name, you will need the certified copy.

•Marriage ceremonies can be performed by the following persons:
** A couple can be married by Judge John Hoffert after 5 pm weekdays or on weekends and an appointment must be made with him by calling (402)471-3512.


** The following three Retired Judges will perform a wedding ceremony for a couple at a place of their convenience:
Judge Ted Vrana - 402-488-0316
Judge Mark Buchholz - 402-489-3140
Judge Daniel Beckwith - 402-720-7669, Email danieljbeckwith@gmail.com

•The Lancaster County Clerk's Office is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and we are not closed over the lunch hour. Our office is located at 555 South 10th Street, Room 108, Lincoln.
•All marriage licenses obtained in Lancaster County are public record and will be printed in the Lincoln Journal Star and the Daily Reporter including name, age and city and state of both parties without exception. These publications print only marriage licenses obtained in Lancaster County.

Apologies.

I have to apologize. This blog has been put at the bottom of the to-do list for weeks now. I do have a good excuse though, because between planning and coordinating weddings, and bringing a child into the world – life got slightly hectic. So, without further ado it’s time to play catch up. And here’s a picture of the little girl that has been keeping my blogging to a minimum.

Midwest Bridal Association Bridal Panel

On April 7th, I attended a Midwest Bridal Association (www.mwbride.com) meeting and bridal panel. I want to thank all the brides that participated in the panel! They provided invaluable feedback as they answered everyone’s questions openly and honestly.
The brides ranged from just recently engaged to already married. The girls each had their own unique sense of style which lent to a wide variety of opinions they were willing to share. Some of the hot topics discussed were budgets (tend to start small and end big), where they find their wedding vendors (Google was a popular place!) and why they hire some wedding vendors (everyone wants a photographer) and not others (not everyone wants a videographer).
As a wedding vendor it was refreshing to listen to what brides had to share. My goal as a wedding planner is to listen to what the brides want – and help them create that vision. I look forward to attending more of these bridal panels and listening to what you have to say!
For the brides that follow this blog: Feel free to leave your comments and questions! We love to hear from you!

Kassie and Jared

I had the pleasure of working with two of the most laid back people I know. (Or maybe they were laid back because they had hired a wedding planner... who knows.) They got married in Superior, Nebraska on a beautifully sunny day in April. The ceremony and reception took place at Superior Estates Winery - a beautiful landscape to get married near. The following picture shows off the craftmanship of the building the wine tastings and reception festivities take place in.

Kassie personalized her wedding in quite a few ways. Her funky, but classy blue wedding shoes are an example.

One of Jared's good friends performed a guitar solo during the lighting of their unity candle. Boy did he have talent!!











Overall, the day went smoothly. Rain was in the forcast but the skies remained sunny and calm all day long. Her family and friends were wonderful people and made the day enjoyable and memorable. One of her ushers even agreed to spread petals down the aisle for them because they didn't have a flower girl. Talk about taking one for the team!!

All of her vendors were wonderful to work for and if you care to hear feedback regarding the vendor's performance, Kassie and Jared are more than willing to share their thoughts. Just shoot me an email at sara@my-girl-friday and put vendor feedback in the subject line, and I will get you lined up with Kassie and Jared.

Vendors:
Ceremony/Reception Venue: Superior Estates Winery
Photography: Turner Photography
Catering: Jon Eisenhower
Cake: Dragonfly Desserts
Flowers: Main Street Floral

Thanks Kassie and Jared for letting us share your special day!!! Can't wait to see what the future holds for the both of you!!


Photos courtesy of Turner Photography www.turner-photography.com

Apologies.

Peter Merry and “The Best Wedding Reception…Ever”

A couple weeks ago I attended a meeting in Omaha for NACE (National Association of Catering Executives) and they had an entertaining and very informative keynote speaker. His name is Peter Merry and he is known as a “Wedding Entertainment Director”, a term he coined himself.
A Wedding Entertainment Director does much more than play pre-recorded music and blandly make announcements. A Wedding Entertainment Director is responsible for professionally creating an unforgettable and entertaining reception that your guests will still be talking about for years to come. I wish this guy lived in Lincoln, he would be booked solid for years to come. He did say he would travel though…
He has authored a book; “The Best Wedding Reception…Ever “ (I scored a signed copy!). The book offers tons of ways to make your wedding day and reception flow smoothly (by hiring the right vendors, timing of events, etc.) and offers many ways to personalize your wedding. Here is one of his great ideas at work right here:



I loved his ideas and his energy. He kept everyone’s attention for the entire duration of his presentation, and I was disappointed when it concluded. You can imagine how entertaining the receptions he directs are!
If you are a client of mine and interested in incorporating some of his ideas into your own wedding, borrow my copy of his book for a week or two. We can start brainstorming and discussing ways to utilize his ideas in your wedding. You and your guests will be happy you did!
For more information on Peter Merry and what a Wedding Entertainment Director is, you can visit his website at: www.weddingentertainmentdirector.com and you can purchase his book on www.amazon.com and www.thebestweddingreceptionever.com.

Invitation Ettiqutte

Is emailing your wedding invitations acceptable?


In these times of economic hardships, you may find yourself scaling back your budget. One area that could be scaled back on is your stationery budget. Many of the trendy invitations that are appealing to brides can cost upwards of $5-$8 apiece. Pair that with the rising cost of stamps in a few months, and you could spend well over $1000 just on something guests are going to eventually throw away!

Some brides may feel compelled to cut costs and email their wedding invitations. After all, everyone is “plugged in” nowadays, even Grandma and Grandpa!

Don’t do it.

It is (almost) never okay to email your wedding invitation. There are other ways to keep your stationery costs low – but this is not one of them.

Instead, you could create your own wedding invitations. There are many options available at Hobby Lobby, Target, and even Wal-Mart. All you need is your own printer.

You can also cut costs by creating an RSVP postcard. It only costs $0.27 to mail a postcard sized RSVP compared to $0.42 to mail a letter sized RSVP. *Just make sure your postcard measurements are in accordance with the post office standards.

You could also request that your guests RSVP via telephone or website.

Please remember: Just because technology exists doesn’t mean it’s always a proper substitute.

Personalized Activity Books

Little kids are cute and fun. Because of this, you may feel compelled to invite them to your wedding reception. They will all have a blast dancing with the other kids and consuming sugar all night long. However, if you give them the opportunity to get bored (before they can show off their dance moves) you may have some cranky and unruly kids on your hands.

Remedy: A Kids Table.

Cover a table at the reception with butcher block paper, and stock the table with lots of crayons, (washable) markers, and activity/coloring books. For the younger kids who would rather eat crayons - have available books, blocks, and puzzles. Bribe one of your younger cousins into watching over the kids table to ensure no one starts drawing on the walls.

If you would like to personalize an activity book for your little guests, shoot My Girl Friday an email. We will send you a Word document containing the activity book. You can email us at: sara@my-girl-friday.com. Please put activity book in the subject line.

Happy Personalizing!

A Sound Impression - Meet Cali Hlavac

Your name (and title/position): Cali Hlavac - President
Business Name: A Sound Impression
Location: 3601 Calvert St., #27 Lincoln, NE 68506
Service or Product Offered: DJ/Hosting, Wedding Videography, Photo
Slideshow Videos, Video Invitations, Save the Date Videos, Love Story Videos
How long in business: 18 years
How did you get started in the wedding industry? Did you always
plan on someday helping brides achieve their “dream” wedding?
I majored in Advertising at UNL and when I graduated, I got a job as the marketing
director for A Sound Impression (the previous owner had an advertising company as
well). After 2 months of working for him, he got offered a job at the Bellevue Med
Center as head of fundraising and decided to take it. Instead of moving the business
to Omaha (since most of his brides were in Lincoln), he approached me and asked if I
was interested in taking over as owner. I agreed, and here we are today ☺ I never
dreamed of being in the wedding industry before then, but I am so happy I did – I love
every minute of it!
What personality traits do you possess that allow you to effectively
interact with brides on their wedding day?
It’s important to me that a bride is completely at ease around you before and during
her wedding day. I’m young (in my 20s), female, and I live and breathe weddings (trends,
colors, décor, ideas, etc.). I can relate to the bride on every level and I think it gives
me an edge over older vendors. I’m constantly reading magazines and doing research
from weddings all across the US to keep myself updated on the most cutting edge
trends. Not only that, but I’m passionate about what I do. Weddings are very exciting;
a once in a lifetime experience that should be treated as such!
How are brides and their weddings different than when you first
started in this industry?
I’ve been working in the industry for 2 years and in my area, I notice brides are
beginning to see the importance of having videography of their wedding. I’m seeing
more and more brides putting a majority of their budget in photo and video. That’s
important because photography is something to be treasured and hung on your wall;
however, you may never be able to hear your vows, toasts, or your grandmother’s voice
ever again. Not to mention, if your parents had a wedding video, wouldn’t you love to
watch it? Imagine the fun your kids will have with it ☺
Are there any changes for your business in the near future you
would like to share?
We are consistently growing – we’ve hired 2 new people in the last week and will add at
least 2 more over the course of the summer. We’ve moved into a larger, more
accommodating space and will continue to have a presence all over town at shows,
events, weddings, etc.
From your experience in working with brides and grooms, is there
any piece of advice you would like to offer?
Always ask for referrals – the best referrals come from brides and vendors. Vendors
often time have a great insight about other vendors because they’ve worked with them
on multiple occasions. The wedding industry in Nebraska is extremely small and most
people know or know of everyone and can give a great referral based on experience. I
would still ask former brides for referrals as well, since they have a different
perspective than a vendor. But always ask – it will save you SO much time and energy
in the end!
Please provide a quick description of the services or products you
offer to brides:
A Sound Impression has been helping couples create, capture, and preserve the
memories of their wedding day for 18 years. We provide DJ/Hosting services, Wedding
Videography Services, Photo Slideshow Videos, Save the Date Videos, Love Story
Videos, Video Invitations, and Trash the Dress Videos. Our prices are very standard
and will be the same every time you call.

If you have additional questions for Cali, feel free to contact her at:
cali@asoundimpression.net or 464-2274.

Sullivan Photography - Meet Jamy Sullivan

Your name (and title/position): Jamy Sullivan, Owner & Photographer


Business Name: Sullivan Photography

Location: 1301 Mockingbird Lane South, Lincoln, NE 68512

How long in business: 6 years

How did you get started in the wedding industry? Did you always plan on someday helping brides achieve their “dream” wedding?

I studied photography in the Art & photojournalism departments at UNL; after I received my degree friends and family kept asking me to photograph their wedding day and family portraits…after turning down people because I didn’t have back up equipment, I finally took out a business loan and started doing what I love-Artistically capturing people



What personality traits do you possess that allow you to effectively interact with brides on their wedding day? I am outgoing, organized, creative &helpful and friendly



How are brides and their weddings different than when you first started in this industry? I have never thought about this, as each one of my brides and couples are unique and each prefer different styles and set up for their wedding day so I customize my approach for each couple.



Are there any changes for your business in the near future you would like to share? Sullivan Photography now has 2 associate photographers that are available-so brides don’t have to miss out on creative photos and products just because I am booked. If a bride books with one of them, the bride gets all her digital wedding day images FREE. I am also running a promotion from Feb 2009-Feb 2010 that my brides are entered in a drawing for a chance to win a trip to VEGAS! (restrictions apply)

From your experience in working with brides and grooms, is there any piece of advice you would like to offer? I think they need to remember that in the end, what matters is their love for each other and they are getting married. And for Brides, this is your one day to be a princess and let everyone to everything else…make sure that those you ask and hire to help will bring out the best in you and be pleasant to work with.
Please provide a short description of the services or products you offer to brides: Sullivan Photography will artistically capture all your wedding day moments, from traditional to impressionist we will professionally make sure your wedding album is as unique and special as you.
If you have additional questions for Sullivan Photography, feel free to contact Jamy at 402-570-5298 or www.jamysullivanphotography.com

Gift Registries

Wedding Gift Registries


One of the many exciting parts of getting married is registering for gifts at your favorite store. You and your fiancé (armed with the “gun”) will go down each aisle and pick out your favorite things, hoping someone will purchase them so you can stock your new lives full of everything you may need, from towels to BBQ sets.

Now that you have registered you may wonder how to tell your guests where to shop.

You don’t.

While it is nice to know exactly what the couple needs (from a guests’ standpoint), the purpose of a registry is not to tell guests where to shop or what to purchase. This is also not the time to stuff your wedding invitation envelope with one more piece of paper, detailing exactly where you have registered. Even though receiving a wedding invitation DOES demand a wedding gift (there are only a few exceptions) it is in poor taste to tell the guests what to buy.

However, there are still a few ways to alert to guests that you have a wedding registry.

When Aunt Annie calls you mother wondering what she should purchase you for your wedding, your mother can take this opportunity to tell her where you have registered for gifts. Let it be known though, that whatever Aunt Annie decides to purchase for you will be gratefully appreciated.

Also, you should list your wedding registries on your wedding website. Wedding websites are a fun and efficient way to share with your guests the pertinent information surrounding your wedding. You can include your wedding website address on the travel or map portion of your wedding invitation. Be sure NOT to include your wedding website address on the ACTUAL invitation.

Have faith that people will figure out where you are registered IF they want to purchase you something off a registry. Whenever I receive a wedding invitation in the mail and am pondering what to purchase for the couple, I immediately search for possible wedding registries on-line at all the popular places to register (Target, Bed Bath and Beyond, Younkers, etc.). Your guests will, too.

WOW Guest Book Idea

WOW (words of wisdom) Guest Book Idea:

If you are looking for a unique way to showcase your guest book (instead of throwing it on the bookshelf and never picking it up again) – here is a unique idea.

More than likely there will be an abundance of guests that attend your wedding who are married (or have been). They would be happy to share what has (or has not) worked for them in their own marriage. Let them offer their advice or words of wisdom in lieu of signing a traditional guest book.

What you’ll need:

Blank 3X5 index cards (enough for each invitation you send out – a family of five would not need 5 index cards – just one)

An assortment of pens

An instruction sheet explaining the scrapbook guest book

A scrapbook

What to do:

At the reception in a conspicuous place that everyone passes by, set out the index cards, pens, and instruction sheet. You could even have a friend or a door greeter help guide guests with what to do.

On the instruction sheet – explain to guests that you would like them to offer any words of wisdom or advice – and sign the bottom of the index card. If your cousin Bob shows up who will forever be a bachelor and doesn’t have any good advice to offer – you can ask him to offer a well wish instead.

Be sure your guests only write on one side of the index card – if you end up attaching these cards onto sheets of cardstock in your scrapbook – you will be unable to read both sides.

You will definitely see people’s personalities shine through! Someday you will enjoy looking back at your guest book – and you will find what pieces of advice worked – and which ones didn’t.

(Be sure to have a basket around to put the index cards in that have been written on - you won’t want to lose them!)

If you aren’t the scrapbooking type – you can slide the 3X5 index cards into a 4X6 wedding photo album.

Blog Launch!

Today kicks off the start of My Girl Friday's Blog!

We want to encourage brides to make this blog interactive - don't hesitate to leave comments or questions in the comment section of the posts. We will refer to our team of experts to get the most current advice - so ask away!

Since it's Monday - It's Meet the people Mondays. We will start this Monday by introducing everyone to the owner of My Girl Friday, Sara Brown.

Your name (and title/position): Sara Brown, Owner
Business Name: My Girl Friday
Location: Lincoln, NE
Service or Product Offered: Wedding Planning/Consultation/Coordination
How long in business: 9 months

How did you get started in the wedding industry? Did you always plan on someday helping brides achieve their "dream" wedding?: I graduated from UNL with a degree in Psychology – but wasn’t too interested in getting a 9 to 5 desk job. I had an idea to start an errand running/concierge company in Lincoln – and that would include helping brides out on their wedding weekends. A close friend of mine worked for a local wedding magazine – and I realized there weren’t any wedding planners in town, but lots of brides planning weddings. I knew I possessed the skills and experience it took to be a valuable wedding planner (I planned my first party when I was 10 years old!), so after careful consideration and a whole lot of reading – I began studying to become a wedding planner and business owner.
I have always dreamed of counseling people, and making their lives better. That’s why a degree in Psychology made the most sense. However, I am pleased to be counseling people on one of the biggest and best days of their lives!

What personality traits do you possess that allow you to effectively interact with brides on their wedding day?: I have a type A personality – no doubt. There aren’t any details that go unnoticed (which sometimes drives others around me bonkers) – and I am the queen of list making. I have always been a perfectionist, and I have a knack for hospitality. I also believe if you’re going to invest yourself into something you need to #1 Do it Right #2 Commit yourself 110% #3 or Go Home. Most brides only dream of one wedding, so I won’t be offered any second chances.

How are brides and their weddings different than when you first started in this industry?: Since I have just started out, I can only hypothesize what the future will hold. I believe the notion of "bigger is better" is becoming a thing of the past. Gone will be the days where people had a 500 guest affair. Smaller, simpler, and more intimate weddings are becoming more common. Quality over quantity.

Are there any changes for your business in the near future you would like to share? I would love to incorporate more design into wedding planning. It is too easy to have a "cookie cutter" wedding, especially when resources are limited. I think every bride and groom deserves to have a wedding that reflects them as an individual and as a couple.

From your experience in working with brides and grooms, is there any piece of advice you would like to offer? Make a list of your priorities. Certain elements of a wedding are necessary – but I would suggest allocating more of your funds to what is really important to you. Just because your budget spreadsheet says you should spend $500 on entertainment, it doesn’t mean you have to stick to that. If you have always dreamed of having a live band (that costs well over $500) and want everyone to be dancing and raving about the musicians by the end of night – cut back on another section of your budget.

Another piece of advice – Remember to be a gracious host. While it may be true that a wedding day is really about the bride and groom – don’t forget about all the people that it took to make you who you are today – and who want to celebrate in your happiness. You’re inviting people to YOUR party, make sure they feel welcomed.

Please provide a quick description of the services or products you offer to brides: We offer Complete Wedding Planning/Coordination and Day of Coordination. If you have the time and desire to plan your own wedding – call on us to orchestrate things for the big day. If you are too busy to worry about the invitations complimenting the style of your wedding, and have no idea who to call for the best photos, call on us to plan AND orchestrate your big day. For a complete description of our services and the packages we offer, visit our website.

If you have additional questions for Sara Brown, feel free to contact her at:
My Girl Friday
www.my-girl-friday.net
402.486.3793

Fantasy Wedding Show 2009

My Girl Friday would like to thank all the brides (and grooms, and mothers, and sisters and bestfriends) who attended the Fantasy Wedding Show at the Lancaster Event Center on Sunday. It was a huge success and we loved having the opportunity to speak with everyone!

Welcome!

Welcome to My Girl Friday's Blog!

This blog will be dedicated to sharing everything local, informative, and interesting to the Lincoln, Nebraska bride.

We are still in the process of gathering information and getting it ready to share with you.

Here is what we have in the works:

Meet the People Mondays - meet the people behind the businesses of Lincoln's wedding vendors

Wacky Wednesdays - fun ways to personalize your wedding (usually Do-It-Yourself style)

Formal Fridays - everything relating to ettiquette and being a gracious hostess.



Check back often!