Sizzlin' Summer Wedding Trends from theKnot.com!

Posted by The Summerlin House At Thornton Park
As Spring turns to Summer, we are SO excited about the weddings that are to come! With May quickly fast-forwarding to June, Summer wedding trends are definitely now in full swing. Have you always dreamed of your Summer wedding? Not sure of the best way to incorporate you fun Summer ideas while still keeping things cool? Check out this article we found on theknot.com. We loved it so much we had to share these sizzlin' tricks with you!

Trend: Dynamic Colors

Bright hues are popular for summer weddings. But if you try to use too many colors in one space, you might wind up with a look that's more carnival than nuptial.

What's hot now: Think sophisticated brights. Sticking with just two hues (or two plus an accent color) will keep your space unified. Rather than splashing color all over your reception space, use one dynamic color for a strong statement -- think all-pink centerpieces or bold orange table linens. This holds especially true for your centerpieces: Instead of multicolored centerpieces, alternate single-color floral arrangements for a pulled-together look.

Trend: Upscale Picnic Food

Summer is the season for barbecuing, so consider serving a grilled entree for instant seasonal style. Rather than going for heavier fare like steak or pulled pork, stick to the lighter side with chicken or fish. Bringing in fruity flavors will add even more seasonal flair -- think chili-lime rubbed chicken breasts or grilled tilapia topped with mango salsa.

What's hot now: Go for upscale picnic-style fare, which is both a low-maintenance and high-style way to go. One example menu we love: coconut-fried chicken served with dipping sauces, red bliss potato salad, and mandarin orange and mesclun salad with raspberry vinaigrette. The options are endless (and delicious!).

Trend: New Themes

Basic beach or garden themes are classic for the summer. Instead of a generic setting or theme, take the personal route.

What's hot now: Think of your favorite summer hangouts when planning your theme. Rather than just any beach, bring in elements specific to the beach you remember as a kid. If it was a cabin in the woods, go for a mountain theme. Another idea: Honor your honeymoon destination. If you're having a garden wedding but honeymooning in Hawaii, add orchids to your bouquets or fill the bottoms of your centerpiece vases with black lava rocks.

Trend: Unexpected Invitations

Letterpressed invites in ivory and black are still as popular and elegant as ever. But if you want to go for something a little more unexpected, ultra-creative wedding invitation designers definitely have color and printing options for you.

What's hot now: Use colors in a new and unexpected way on your invites by reversing the typical invitation color scheme. For example, rather than using fuchsia lettering on a cream-colored invite, opt for cream print on fuchsia paper. Or mix it up -- do the cream-colored invite with fuchsia writing, and then a bright pink reply card with a cream-colored font. Consider the material of your invite as well. One hot-off-the-press idea: Get fabric-printed invites, programs, and escort cards for a laid-back look perfect for summer.

Trend: Wine Smoothies

Your guests will definitely want something cold and frosty, but margaritas and daiquiris can be had at any summertime bar. Instead, go for a libation that's a little out of the ordinary.

What's hot now: Wine smoothies are cold, frosty, and pack less of an alcoholic punch than margaritas. Perfect for your cocktail hour and as a signature drink for the evening, ask your caterer about serving one of these concoctions. A wine smoothie consists of a fruity wine, like rose, blended with ice and fruits of your choice. Garnished with a couple of berries or fruit slices, it makes for a refreshing and unexpected signature sip.

Trend: Natural Centerpieces

Cut citrus fruit is a tried-and-true favorite for summertime centerpieces, but other options out there are more unexpected and just as visually appealing.

What's hot now: Love fruit but want something new? Have your florist use hollowed-out watermelons as a centerpiece container for a casual look that's fun and seasonal. Another option is to go natural and green with your containers. Incorporate wooden vases or pedestals with grass or moss to give centerpieces a textured, natural feel.

Trend: Beyond Wedding Cake

White wedding cakes are popular for every season, and of course, chocolate always reigns for groom's cakes. But with cake bakers nowadays offering so many delectable flavors and fillings, why not try a seasonal selection?

What's hot now: Get inspired by the summer flavors you loved as a child. Think fresh strawberries and whipped cream filling for a strawberry shortcake-style wedding cake, or a citrus-infused filling like Key lime, lemon, or orange vanilla buttercream that honors a summertime fruit. Beyond the cake, consider serving other desserts. A big-hit idea we love: Hire an ice cream truck to arrive at the end of the night offering summertime favorites -- the perfect nostalgic, late-night snack for your guests.

Trend: Eco-Friendly Favors

Classic summer favors like flip-flops and drink koozies will always satisfy, but why not give back to the planet while you give back to your guests?

What's hot now: Eco-friendly favors are bigger than ever, particularly if you're taking advantage of natural beauty and marrying outdoors. One idea: Give guests locally grown herbs planted in recyclable glass jars or tin cans. Dressed up with ribbon or paper in your wedding colors, they're gorgeous and good for the earth. Beyond plants, you might also consider donating to a local charity for a wedding favor idea that never goes out of season.

For a more complete version of this article check out theknot.com!
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Fabulous Royal Wedding Traditions

Posted by The Summerlin House At Thornton Park
The wedding of Prince William to Kate Middleton is without a doubt the event of the century, which got us thinking- what crazy traditions (if any!) does the British Royal family follow when it comes to weddings? Our research proved the Royal family are definitely no strangers to traditions, especially when it comes to weddings. Here are a few of the fun ones we came across!

The Wedding Ring
According to tradition, the Queen Mother and all of the women who have married after her have all incorporated some aspect of Welsh gold into their wedding bands. Kate's ring will probably
contain the same gold!

The Bridal Bouquet
The royal herd, myrtle, will most likely be contained somewhere in Kate's bridal bouquet- This is carried down from many brides. She will also leave her bouquet at the grave of the unknown soldier at Westminster Abbey after the ceremony.

The Wedding Cake
Traditionally, the wedding cake will have fruitcake in at least one of its tiers. Even if for some reason the cake does not contain fruitcake, you can bet that fruitcake will be somewhere on the menu!

The Wedding Dress
The tradition of the white wedding dress actually stemmed in 1840 from the royal family's Queen Victoria. Since then, brides all over the world have incorporated white dresses into their weddings! Lace is also a very common dress accessory, whether it be the whole dress, or just an aspect of it.

The Honeymoon Home
This is one tradition that may be falling by the wayside for this royal couple. Historically, the newlywed couple lives in a royal apartment appointed to them after they wed. However, William and Kate have chosen to forgo this tradition and live in a home in Wales.


Needless to say, no expense is spared when it comes to the marriage of Royalty! Make sure to tune in to this historic event to get all the trends, traditions, and treats!
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Spendid Signature Drinks

Posted by The Summerlin House At Thornton Park
We think that signature drinks are a great idea to give your wedding drink menu and flair of yourselves and tie the bar into your wedding theme. Whether it is a high tea, a sunny breakfast, or an elegant evening, a signature cocktail will definitely add something special. Here are a few of the yummy ones we just HAVE to share with you.
Blue Lemonade Recipe

Ingredients:
1 oz. Vodka
Orange Juice
1 oz. Rum
1 oz. Blue Curacao
1 oz. Gin
1 1/1 oz. Sweet & Sour Mix

Shake and Strain


Golden Groom

Ingredients:
2 oz. Tequila
1/4 cup Pineapple Juice
1/2 cup Orange Juice
Splash of Pomegranate Juice

Mix, Shake Well. Garnish with Orange Peel


Blushing Bride

Ingredients:
Lemon Wedge
Pink Sanding Sugar
2 oz. Vodka
1/2 cup pulp free pink lemonade

Rub lemon around the ring of the glass, shake on the sugar. Mix and shake well, strain into glass.


In doing some research to find the best cocktails out there to share with you all, I came across a page on theknot.com. Their signature cocktail slide show is something that you will definitely need to check out (they've thought of everything!), so we included it for you to look at as well!





~pictures and website courtesy of theknot.com
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Day of Emergency Kit= A VERY Good Idea!

Posted by The Summerlin House At Thornton Park
While we would love to say that every wedding day goes perfectly without a hitch... that would be a lie. Some things, no matter how hard we try to avoid them, end up finding a way of happening. Straps coming undone, hair falling out, a make up blunder- who knows?! Because of this, its always a good idea to invest in a wedding day of emergency kit. That way, nothing can stand in your way! Here are a few tiny, yet important things to make sure to include.

  • Chalk (to hide any scuffs that may have found its way to your dress)
  • Baby Powder (to hide oily hair)
  • Asperin/Tylenol (ALWAYS a good idea)
  • Hairspray (you can never have too much)
  • Bobby Pins (for those tiny flyaways)
  • Clear Nail Polish ( for those annoying panty hose runs)
  • Facial Oil Blotting Papers (you dont want too much shine!)
  • Bandaids (new shoes can hurt)
  • Safety Pins (last minute dress fixes)
  • Flip Flops (to save your feet when dancing)
  • Tampons/pads (hopefully these wont be needed, but you never know!)
  • Gum/Mints (nobody likes bad breath!)


Any or all of these will definitly be a good thing to have on your big day. Too stressed the week of to grab all these items? Assign it to one of your bridesmaids!





Inspired by~http://boards.weddingbee.com/topic/brides-day-of-emergency-kit-please-helpit~ kaboodle.com
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10 Tips to Honeymoon Planning

Posted by The Summerlin House At Thornton Park
This weekend after learning that our Saturday couple was going to Aruba on their honeymoon (jealous!) we decided to brush up on our latest honeymoon gossip when we ran across a fun article that touched on 10 tips to honeymoon planning. While they may seem like small changes to make to the planning process, we thought they were helpful none-the-less! They are as follows:

1. Wait a day or two before heading out to paradise. While we know you are just as excited to jet set as you were for the big day, it may be a good idea to wait a few days to head out. You may not think so, but your wedding day takes a lot out of you! Between waking up early to get ready and spending hours catching up with family and friends, you will be pooped. The last thing you will want to do is stand in lines at the airport the next day.

2. Do not use the bride's newlywed name for the reservations. We know you have practiced writing 'Mrs. John Smith' all over the place since you first got engaged, but using your new name is not the best idea for honeymoon planning. It usually takes a little bit for the new names to register on all the official documentation. It will save a lot of time when trying to get tickets and check in!

3. Always specify the kind of bed arrangement you want. Whether you specifically want a king or are fine with two queens, make sure you let the hotel know ahead of time- You want to make sure they don't put you in a room with two single beds!

4. Always let your travel agent/flight company/hotel/etc. know you are on your honeymoon. Whoever you are making plans with, let them know you are on your special vacation. They are usually more than willing to issue and upgrade and give you special treats to celebrate. But make sure to bring proof! Places now a days require you to provide documentation.

5. Don't skimp on any aspect! This is an occasion, like the wedding, you will remember forever. You definitely would not want to look back on the things you did and wish you did more!

6. If you ARE on a fixed budget... Consider postponing the honeymoon- There is nothing wrong with this! Postponed trips are just as special. And it will allow you to make sure you are able to go and do everything you want to. Also consider shortening the trip- It may be better to go to a more luxurious hotel for fewer nights as opposed to a less fabulous one for longer.

7. Take heed when getting advice from family and friends. They of course have your best interests in mind, but sometimes their likes and dislikes are completely different than what you and your hubby's will be. It's always good to get advice, but make sure you are planning the trip the two of you want!

8. Plan the deets together. It may not be something of interest to both of you (you know who we are talking about) but make sure to get both opinions and wants involved in the planning aspect. It's a trip for both of you, after all!

9. All inclusive resorts? No, its not a scam. With everything you will need to include and pay for on the trip, it is a good idea to look into options like this. You can still plan other things outside the resort, but it helps with covering a few of the crazy costs like food and alcohol.

10. Choose a place neither of you have been to before. It's nice to have your own special places, but these are places you can go all the time. Choose a destination that neither of you have been to before, and it will be fun to experience it all together for the first time!





blog inspired by~http://www.weddingshoneymoons.com/honeymoon_planning_tips
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Decisions, Decisions- Planning Entertainment for the Big Day

Posted by The Summerlin House At Thornton Park
With today's changing and evolving wedding trends, music and entertainment can sometimes be almost as important as the food. It is the first thing your guests will experience before you make your grand entrance, and will be something you will want to be able to enjoy as you celebrate the night away. Before you go booking the first DJ you meet, take into consideration a few trendy entertainment ideas and tips that will keep your guests rockin' the night away.

IPods are SO out. Ok, so you may have the coolest new jams that you just downloaded to your new iPod. But let's save that for your next road trip. While iPods are a resourceful way to keep your entertainment budget down, it totally takes away from the entertainment value a DJ or live band provide. They know how to entertain your guests, make announcements, and help keep the flow of the reception. Plus, it saves everyone from having to hear 'My Humps' replay all night...

Plan out the music. While your guests may not remember every single song they hear, music is an important aspect of the wedding experience. They are more than just songs- they are the songs that play before you walk down the isle, songs that play as you dance your first dance, songs you get to jive to as new husband and wife. Not every song needs to be planned out in a minute-to-minute schedule, but make sure that the big moments feature some of your favorites.

Set the trend. While weddings never get old (at least we don't think they do!) they can always be spiced up with a little bit of unorthodox entertainment. A rising trend more and more couples are beginning to use are photobooths. No, not just the ones you see set up all over the mall. These can be a fun way to get your guests to unveil their goofy sides. And the cool part about these are the printouts: guests get to take home a reminder of the fun they had, and you get a silly picture they can act as a guestbook to document those who attended. Another classy idea is to get a caricature artist to draw pictures of your guests. They usually book by the hour so you wouldn't necessarily need to book them for the entire time, but it is a fun thing for the guests to do when they need to rest their tired dancing feet.

No matter what you choose to have at your wedding your guests are bound to have a good time...the important thing is that you do, too!

*picture courtesy of gismodo.com~inaframe.com
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The ABC's of Wedding Party Picking

Posted by The Summerlin House At Thornton Park
Picking family and friends for your wedding party can often times be somewhat of a tough choice. You want to make sure you choose people who are close to you, and who you can trust and rely on, but at the same time don't want to hurt any feelings- if only bridal parties could consist of 100 people! Before you fret about who to choose, take a look at some of our ABC's to help you narrow down your search.


 A-Squad- No matter what, there is no wrong choice in who you choose. You want to think about who you want standing beside you, who you will be able to depend on, how many people you want to have in the party. You don't have to invite the same girls who asked you to be in their wedding, and you don't have to include your long lost distant cousin twice removed: there are no rules as long as it is your dream team.

Before- Prior to making any decisions, don't be too hasty to make assumptions about your choices, i.e. assuming someone wont be able to afford the dress you choose, or wont be interested in helping you plan. If there is someone you have these concerns about, confront her. Maybe the situation isn't as you thought. Or, if it is, maybe you can find something else for her to be involved with.

 
Choosing- Remember, like with all of the other decisions that need to be made, this is your day. Don't worry about what others will think or about hurting people's feelings: They know it is your special day and you have your own vision.
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Picking Your Wedding's Theme

Posted by The Summerlin House At Thornton Park
An exciting aspect of planning a wedding is picking out the theme. Not all weddings have to have a theme, but it can be a fun way to tie both the bride and groom's personalities in together. Looking for that o-so-unique idea? Check out some of these that we found!

Alice in Wonderland




Cajun/Mardi Gras

   



Tiffany




Pirate

    



Western

   



Under the Sea





Pictures courtesy of*Blushingbridezilla.com*weddingboss.com*theweddingideas.co.cc*projectwedding.com*bridalcookie.com
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Going Old School

Posted by The Summerlin House At Thornton Park
Looking for some neat ideas to turn your wedding into a classy, vintage one?  Why not?! Turning your big day into an old-fashioned soiree is a piece of cake!

Intrigue your guests by showing off your style right from the beginning. Do you remember using tea bags to make your 2nd grade history report look aged and unique? Use that second grade knowledge towards making your invites look charming and classic. Calligraphy pens can also help to make your wedding details simple and distinctive.


What about the centerpieces? Some of the best vintage centerpieces are things that are actually...well...vintage. Old or faded framed family pictures always make wonderful table decor, and add a little bit of family to the decorations. Pictures of old classic movies are also always a good way to help with your blast-to-the-past. Oldies like Gone with the Wind, Casablanca, and My Fair Lady are noted romantic films. Want to incorporate flowers into the centerpiece? Try picking out things from the garden like old water cans to give the piece an old-fashioned flair.


Now for the accessories. Adding lace to something almost makes it look vintage. Lace wedding dresses can be found in just about any bridal store. Not a fan of wearing lace from head to toe? Incorporate it other places, such as the table cloths, or the pattern of the wedding cake. Substitute a floor length veil or tiara for a birdcage style veil that drapes the side of your face. Vintage brooches or neckalces can help spruce up your look as well.


No matter what you choose to do, we know your wedding will be a 'thing of the past'. Just remember to keep it simple, and you'll be a success!
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Keeping Your Wedding Green

Posted by The Summerlin House At Thornton Park
Looking for ways to 'Green' up your wedding without having to sacrifice? We think thats a great idea! Here are a few minor changes that can make a world of difference.

Outdoors, Outdoors, Outdoors. What better way to green up your wedding than being one with nature? Now is the start of the best time of year to have outdoor weddings. Need suggestions? We can think of a pretty awesome place...

 Be a Tree Hugger. Recycled paper is a great way to help your wedding be green. Use it towards the invitations, place cards, and even programs. It is a great way to help your wedding have an air of elegance while adding a homey touch.


 Radical Rentals. Every bride dreams of her perfect dress, but how many times will you wear it after the big day? Consider renting your day of dress and tux. Not too keen on renting? Maybe you can donate it to be rented after the wedding!


To and From. Look into getting transportation that is easy on the environment. Horse drawn carriages are very eco friendly, and a fun romantic way to ride out in style.


Make the list, check it twice. If you have the option for a small wedding, do it! Smaller weddings can help to cut down travel costs and expenses, as well as the amount of food that needs to be prepared. Can't shake the relatives? Suggest carpooling!

 Reuse the Florals. When choosing your flowers, pick something you wouldnt mind seeing around your home. Florists prepare arrangements so they will last, so let a few guests take home and extra favor and decorate away!


Washable Ware. Ordering plates and cups that can be reused cute down on garbage that has to be thrown out. Express to the caterers your need for reusable items, and they will let you know of the packages they offer to meet your needs.
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69 Wonderful fun filled years ....

Posted by The Summerlin House At Thornton Park


Today is my husbands Grandparents 69th Wedding Anniversary!

Eugene & Isabell Peterson
If you had the extra ordinary honor of meeting this wonderful couple they would probably make you blush. :)

They still kiss all over each other like a Newlywed couple! It's pretty stinkin cute !!! The picture below was in the middle of Bob Evans at Breakfast !!LOL!




I would love to interview them for this Blog but they are off cruising the Caribbean no doubt winning the Newlywed game on the ship as they do
EVERY SINGLE TIME.

They always put the audience in stitches with their answer to this question: When was the last time you made whoopie? and they both answer " in the shower right before we came here tonight!" now if you have ever been on a cruise we all know how small those showers are LOL!!

Not sure if they really mean what they say.....but inevitably they always win with that answer !

They are adorable and I can only hope to be that in love after 69 years of marriage with my hubby :)

Here are a few pictures of them along with a picture they gave me of their receipt for the Reception Hall rental from their wedding January 31st 1942



This picture below Eugene is modeling his bow tie from their wedding and Isabell is wearing her original wedding handkerchief on her head ( love her !)


Here is the receipt from the Reception Hall ...eeek ! ONLY 15 DOLLARS!!!
Ummmmmmmm...... slightly less than what we charge at The Summerlin House!

It was a whooping $15 dollars !!! They placed a $5 Deposit down on the hall and provided their own beer, "Pop" and Orchestra.



Here's their snuggies we got them for Christmas they are embroidered and say "69 years of snuggling" ...again...how stinking cute are they ???? :)


Congratulations Eugene & Isabell !!!
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Want a cool idea for your hunny for Valentines Day??

Posted by The Summerlin House At Thornton Park


"Lovestats" cards guarantee to keep your significant other out of the doghouse!

MyLovestats cards are full color laminated cards that have your photo on the front and your love stats on the back. These love stats are provided by you from our on line form, they are specific dates and information that your sweetheart can have on hand at a moments notice. The cards are credit card size for easy fit for any wallet.

Here’s how it works:

You upload the photo of you that you want them to carry in their wallets and we scan that into our program and professionally color print on front of card.

On the back of the card is all the information that you need your sweetheart to know about you. Reminder of anniversary date, date that you met, your favorite color, your favorite flower…ETC… and on the opposite end of that spectrum it can even include things that you would NEVER EVER wish for them to buy for you. What a great way to make sure you always get what you really want!!

It’s not only your picture in their wallet but also an information guide for them when they need it the most.


For more information or to order your Lovestats card visit our events page on
The Summerlin House website :



www.thesummerlinhouse.com


Mylovestats does not gender discriminate, and is available to all sex relationships.


Mylovestats is a seasonal Promotion through The Summerlin House

407-235-4730

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Forget those boring Guest Books!

Posted by The Summerlin House At Thornton Park
At The Summerlin House We're all about being Distinctive....
Forget Boring Guest Books!
Be Distinctive with one of these 5 Creative Ideas
from The Knot!


Typewriter Guest Book
Give your guest book a vintage twist by setting out a few antique typewriters for wedding guests to tap out a message. Later, you can bind the pages together to create a book of sweet notes from your family and friends.





Children's Book Guest Book
Here's your chance to make up for all those years your mom wouldn't let you write in your books. Pick a favorite picture book from your childhood (or one that represents your relationship) and have guests sign a page.



Vintage Postcard Guest Book
Collect enough pretty vintage postcards (look online at sites like OldPostcards.com or on eBay) for each guest to write you a message, then set out pens and a “mailbox” for them to leave the cards in



Vinyl Record Guest Book
Embrace your love of music with an authentic vinyl record (available at most thrift stores) wedding guest book. Set out permanent markers in metallic colors for guests to sign with.


Mad Libs Guest Book
For another childhood throw-back, let your wedding guests fill in the blanks with a Mad Libs-inspired guest book. Create your own at WordLibs.com/create






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Twigs & Honey

Posted by The Summerlin House At Thornton Park
What is Twigs & Honey you say? Twigs and Honey is a shop based out of Salem/Portland, Oregan that specializes in ...well just about everything from bridal hair adornments to boutonieres! If you're tired of the same old boring updo and want to add some flare to your hair ; Twigs & Honey could be just what you need. Twigs & Honey pieces have an almost organic composition with varied textures, complex colors, and whimsical accents. These hair pieces will add a touch of chic elegance to your hair, taking it from boring to gorgeous! The Twigs & Honey line features hair adornments, headbands, birdcage veils, traditional veils, bridal jewelry, belts, and so much more. You are definitely getting what you pay for, the line uses fine silks, feathers, laces, and vintage bits to make every adornment unique. Just like The Summerlin House, Twigs & Honeys is Distinctively vintage, with a stylish splash.



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