Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Head to your local Papyrus store this weekend. Actually, starting Friday you can save 20% off custom printing orders. Visit The Mall in Columbia and Towson Town Mall for stores in Maryland. Visit Union Station and Georgetown for stores in Washington, DC. If you’re not in this area then click here to find a location near you.
Happy shopping!
Monday, December 15, 2008

Staying with the “thank you” theme of the last few posts, I want couples to know that sometimes vendors like to thank you for allowing them to be a part of your wedding. This is especially true this time of year when we tend to send out holiday cards or gifts.
Make sure you provide your wedding vendors with your most recent address. The address you had at the time you signed your contract with them (6-12 months prior to the wedding) may not be the address you have at the time of or right after your wedding. I can think of a couple of vendors that would definitely need to know your new address. Your photographer and videographer! You’ll still have contact with them after your wedding since their work isn’t complete yet.
So let us know that you’ve moved and update us with your new address. I love nothing more than hearing my couples have purchased their first home together!
Monday, December 8, 2008

Today’s post is still keeping with the topic of giving thanks. I often receive inquiries regarding Affairs With Elegance wedding packages and pricing. I always respond with whatever information is requested. I’ve also had initial meetings with couples who are interested in hiring us for their wedding. Sometimes I hear back from them and sometimes I don’t. I completely understand if we do not offer the services you desire or if we are not within your price range or if you just liked someone else better however, it would be nice for you to say “Thanks for your time but…”
This doesn’t just apply to us but to all of the wedding vendors you contact or meet with. My colleague Terrica of Fabuluxe did a great post on her blog regarding this topic. It is just common courtesy to let a vendor know that you are no longer interested in their services…regardless of the reason. Please keep this in mind as you search for the “perfect” vendor.
Thursday, December 4, 2008

In my last post, I talked about various wedding related activities that you may need thank you cards for. My colleague Janice over at The Bridal Wishlist is having a giveaway! The prize? A set of 40 personalized Parklife Press note cards and envelopes valued at $250. These would make great thank you cards. Check out her blog for more details but hurry because the winner will be chosen Friday (as in tomorrow). Good luck!
Tuesday, December 2, 2008

{photo: Fine Stationery}
With the Thanksgiving holiday just last week, most people were thinking about what they were thankful for. Brides/couples should be thankful too. Most couples typically think about thank you cards for guest who’ve attended and/or purchased a gift for their wedding but there are other thank you’s to consider. Engagement gifts, bridal shower gifts, bachelorette party, wedding party participants, parents who’ve contributed to their big day, etc.
Party & Shower Gifts: I’m sure you all know that it’s customary to thank people who have purchased a gift for you. Thank you cards should be sent out in a timely manner so that others know that you appreciated their gift.
The Wedding Party: Couples should thank their friends/family for standing up for them on their big day. Remember, these people have purchased expensive dresses and accessories, rented tuxedos, thrown showers/parties, etc. While you may be tempted to buy the same gift for everyone, try to choose a gift that reflects the recipient’s personality or hobbies. It is customary to give out wedding party gifts at your bridesmaid luncheon or rehearsal dinner.
Your Parents: Who wouldn’t want to thank the people who have been supportive of your relationship, who are contributing financially or have just been great parents who’ve made you the person that you are today? Why not give them a thoughtful card on your wedding day. They probably won’t be expecting it which will make it even more appreciated. There are tons of cards for mothers of the bride and fathers of the bride.
Lastly, don’t forget about your wedding vendors. While we all know that they received payment for the services they performed, some vendors go above and beyond your expectations or throw in a little extra. Why not send them a quick note after your wedding (and honeymoon) to let them know they exceeded your expectations. I receive them from time to time and it is such a great feeling to read what my clients thought about me and my team.