Another Color-Picker Thingy

I just wanted to share this sweet tool that Brides.com has to help you generate a color palette: Color Studio.
I blogged a while ago about one color generator--but I really like the one at Brides.com.
It whipped together some fresh color combos I would never any think of!
Check it!
(I saw this on Weddingbee)

IKEA Run!

Bless IKEA!
I spent about an hour in the store this afternoon (an hour is impressive--normally its around three) looking for wedding goodies.
By far my favorite find were these 99 cent table easels!



I'm going to either paint or spray paint these and maybe stamp them with flourishes to create a print. I'll use them on our dinner tables to hold the table signs.

I also found some large and tall bundles of 6 foot tall straight willow branches which I bought to give to my florist. $14.99 each.

New TV Show "Jumping the Broom" now casting African American Couples

AMS production group is doing the casting for a national network--not sure which...
Info below. I have no idea how timely this is...

Company: AMS Production Group
Contact:
State: Any State
Posted On: Dec 31, 07 Expires On: Mar 31, 08

Description:

STAR ON THE SHOW "JUMPING THE BROOM!"
A new television series for a major network is looking for outgoing, African American couples who want to show the world the innovative ways you plan to say I DO! We're currently casting couples from all walks of life with unique, fun and creative wedding plans!

Having a destination wedding? A ceremony rich in traditional African culture? Over-the-top nuptials with extra bling? A down-home affair? If your wedding plans are special and you and your fiancé would like to star in your own episode, we want to talk to you! All weddings must be January through March of 2008.

*New Wedding TV Show*

Hello all,
I am the Associate Producer for a new TV series called Jumping the
Broom.
The program will feature African American couples and the experiences
they
have as they plan for their BIG DAY.
It will be positive, informative and entertaining. Each show will
explain
different traditions specific to African American weddings and explore
new
ideas couples create to make their day special.
We are casting African American couples getting married in January,
February
or March of 2008 for this new docuseries. If you are interested or
know
someone who might be please get in touch with me at
mwatkins@amspg.com.
Contact: Monika

Click HERE for the actual ad from www.realitywanted.com.

Beaded Table Numbers

Want to get creative with how to let your wedding guests know where to sit for dinner?
I present to you these pretty, handmade table numbers from Etsy seller BrassPaperclip.
You can customize them to be made in any color bead--or even Swarovski crystals for a really blingy piece. And they can stick right into your flower arrangements!
This seems a bit more practical than the wooden table numbers I've seen covered with glued-on rhinestones...
And it seems like something you could do yourself with wire and beads if you're even a little bit crafty...
Enjoy!

300% Mark Up!?

I read this today from a guy who claims to have been a floral wholesaler. Can anyone comment on whether this sounds right?

"I used to be in the wholesale flower business, so I can tell you some of the dark secrets. Florist's usually operate on a three hundred percent mark up! There is nothing wrong with that, most florists are struggling to cover their over heads!"
From Helium.com

Obviously, we pay florists for their skill, creativity and time. But 300%!?

Oooh La La...Damask Gets Grown & Sexy!

This is for the lovers of modern damask. If table runners and votive holders aren't enough for you, try the yummy Tommy Bahama 'Tahaana Damask' swimwear collection. Available at Zappos.

Bridesmaids Jewelry: Forever 21?

For budget brides looking for cheap bridesmaids jewelry options, I'd like to give a shout out to the jewelry section of Forever 21.
Now, we all know Forever 21 is one of those stores...really trendy and great for teens and early 20-somethings...but not the place to shop when looking for high quality pieces that will last and last.
However, the Forever 21 jewelry and accesories departments could be a choice for brides looking to buy fashionable jewelry for many bridesmaids that would only need to last a day--let's say a wedding day!
I've bought my fair share of jewelry from Forever 21. At least one item--a pair of earrings-- broke before I could even get them home.
But the majority of jewelry I've purchased from the store--bracelets and earrings--have actually lasted.
I think this is a good place to at least look for bridesmaid's jewelry if you're on a budget. What do you think? Yay or nay?
A few of my favorite recent finds from Forever21.com. All under 8 bucks.
Rhinestone Bracelet: $7.80
Antique Floral Cuff: $5.80
Antique Filigree Cuff: $4.80
Chandelier Jewel Earrings: $3.80

For brides looking to spend a little more on bridesmaids jewelry of better quality, here are a few good web stores:
Amy's Bridal Accessories
Fashion Jewelry for Everyone
Everything Angelic
Crystal Classics
1928 Jewelry
Perfect Details

Happy Wednesday!