Featured couple - Jamie & Sam

A Day to Cherish is so blessed right now. Not only is 2011 already shaping up to be a great year, but we currently have some really amazing and fun couples! We already have the pleasure of working with couples on one of the most important and exciting times in thier lives but to add to that, enjoying spending time with our great clients makes work even more FUN! 

I want to introduce you to Jamie and Samer. Two of the cutest, sweetest people you have ever met. I don't think either of them has a mean bone in their body and working with them has been such a great experience. When asking the couple to describe each other Jamie says of Sam: ' I would describe Sam as genuine, very caring & loving, honest and intelligent.' Sam describes Jamie as: ' Beautiful, loving, the sunshine in my life and my best friend'. It just doesn't get any more adorable than that!

Jamie and Sam  not only have a great love for each other but for life! They enjoy hiking, traveling, running and many other activities together. Jamie and Sam wed last Saturday at Desert Botanical Gardens, and while we wait anxiously for the wedding day photos, we thought we would blog these engagement pictures taken by the Kimberly Jarman Stuidos associate photographer to celebrate their recent marriage. Enjoy!

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Venecia & Blake - Engagement Photos in San Diego

This is a post that doesn't need a lot of words, the pictures speak for themselves! These are some AMAZING engagement photos take by Zelo Photography of San Diego. The upcoming San Diego wedding of these two is going to be a wonderful and memorable event. Enjoy the photos and look for the wedding pictures this summer!

Stacia & Tim - Jamaica wedding

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Although this was not actually a wedding COORDINATED by A Day to Cherish, it was very special to us and we think it deserves a blog! Not long ago, I introduced you to Stacia. Well, I had the pleasure of traveling to the Caribbean on Valentines Day to attend her wedding in Jamaica. Although it was a bit difficult to sit back and just be a guest, it was a wonderful time, a beautiful wedding and everything turned out great. Enjoy the pictures take by Kristen Self Photography (and a few taken by ME!)  Congratulations to Tim & Stacia on a wonderful day and many great years to come!

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Vendor Spotlight: Desert House Productions

Not long ago, we were in the midst of helping one of our fabulous couples search for vendors. Laurie and Dave needed a DJ. However, unlike many of our clients, they had one specific requirement for thier wedding DJ. Real Vinyl. Not CD's, not mp3's....VINYL. What a cool request! We were so excited to find a new and talented DJ that offered this and what a treat we came across. Our search brought us to Desert House Productions. The owners Dave and Drea Strickler have a level of music knowledge that is unlike any we have seen. They are far from the cliche' wedding singer type and are hip, confident, fun and can read a crowd and adjust to the mood of the evening with perfection! Check out a few pictures of events we have enjoyed with them and check them out on facebook for more photos and information!

Meet 'Baby' Zachary Shelton!

As many of you know our owner, Aleasha has been expecting her first little boy!  It doesn't seem like 9 months have gone by already but apparently, they have! So without further adieu, I would like to formally introduce you to our new CEO Zachary John Shelton. I guess this means I just got demoted!

Zachary joined our staff on January 12, 2011 at 4:52 am.  Never fear, A Day to Cherish is still full steam ahead, planning and coordinating weddings and Aleasha is doing great! Enjoy a few pictures of our newest little addition and his full head of hair!

Meet Stephanie!

It is my pleasure to introduce to you another one of our fabulous staff members and give you a little insight on who she is outside of wedding day! Stephanie came to A Day to Cherish in May, she was the lucky girl who's first wedding was mine! So not only did she begin her first day at a new job, but she had the added pressure of working for a wedding coordinator who would notice every detail AND the added pleasure of experiencing my bridezilla moments. Poor Stephanie! But she did rise to the occasion and earned herself a top spot as a day of staff member. You will see Stephanie speeding around behind the scenes or helping brides and bridal party at the wedding. She has been an amazing asset to our team and is one of the sweetest people you will ever meet!

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We asked Stephanie to answer our fun 'get to know you' questions, so enjoy!

What is your favorite television show?

Fringe, The Event and Parenthood.  I like to mix it up with serious shows and funny shows.

Favorite movie?

I don't know if I have an all-time favorite, but, I do love the Notebook!  Can never refuse a good love story!

Favorite time of year?

I like the fall; I can bust out my boots and sweaters!

Favorite restaurant?

hmmm...I would say right now I really like Seasons 52!!  Yummy and healthy!

How many states have you been to? Countries?

oh, geese...I don't know how many states...let's just say I have been to at least 15...and I have been to 2 countries, US and Mexico

Last concert you went to?

Kings of Leon over the summer

Who would you call first if you won the lottery?

If i was not with my hubby, him, and then my mom!

If you could speak another language, what would it be?

Well, I attempted to learn italian, so let's keep with that! 

Have you ever met anyone famous?

I have only met athletes, but I have seen a lot of famous people!!

What word do you catch yourself saying a lot?

OMG, That's Funny (I think that is it...)

What is the last book you read?

...do magazines count?

If you could own 5 houses anywhere in the world, where would they be?

Whistler, Hawaii, Italy, San Fran, and Tahoe

Can you use chopsticks properly?

If i really try, sort of, but I prefer a fork

If you had to be trapped in a TV show for a month, which show would you choose?

hmmm, good question...I think I must agree with Brittany--Sex and the City!  you can't go wrong with the outfits!!!

Who would you most like to be stuck in an elevator with?

My hubby, Jon!!

Brittany & PJ - Sunridge Canyon wedding

This fall was a bustle of fun weddings and great couples! Brittany was another one of our DIY brides who brought us in for her wedding day to execute all of her details and timeline while she relaxed and enjoyed the day. These two had such a blast and the pcitures by Holli Horton Photography turned out wonderful! One of our favorite touches was the shot glasses made of ice brought out to the dancefloor to get the party started! What a fun touch! Congratulations to Brittany and Pj and big thanks to Sunridge Canyon, Roses Galore, Citron Sound Entertainment, Larry James and Let Them Eat Cake!!

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Featured Venue - Blackstone Country Club

 One of the most overwhelming tasks of wedding planning is finding the perfecdt venue. Especially in the Valley of the sun where around every corner you find another resort, golf club, banquet hall or hotel! There are so many things that play into finding the perfect place for you, so we want to share with you one of OUR all around favorites - Blackstone Country Club!  

  Nestled up in Northwest Peoria, Blackstone is a hidden gem. Let's just say it makes me want to become a golfer so I have a better reason to become a memeber and hang out there!  It is slightly off the beaten path, away from the bustle and business of Scottsdale but  holds a level of class that many venues only try to achieve. Blackstone is a private golf and country club that is open to public weddings so aside from a few members during daylight hours, your event will be the ONLY event taking place on site on your wedding day. One of the things that stands out with Blackstone is the number of options you have to choose from. There is far more than one ceremony site and standard ballroom here! One option for the ceremony is the perfectly manicured rose garden lawn, which overlooks desert and mountain views untainted by houses and buildings, just pure Arizona landscape. If the rose garden doesn't quite fit your vision you have your choice of the courtyard, or the main event lawn. Even on the main event lawn the possibilities are endless, choose the gorgeous spanish Hacienda as your back drop, overlook the golf course, or back up to a rustic but elegant wooden arbor.   

Beyond the tuscan architecture and style of Blackstone is something many newley engaged couples often overlook when searching for a venue, great service and staff. Blackstone staff has wedding day executed to a science and will attend to your every need. From a locker room attendant, to a rehearsal and ceremony coordinator to outstanding waitstaff the service is a cut above and will leave you to relax and know that everything will be taken care of while you enjoy your wedding day! Finally, let's not forget to mention the quality of food and an outstanding pastry chef (all we can say, is YUM) !   

                            

    Enjoy some of our favorite pictures from Blackstone weddings. If you are searching for the perfect venue, check them out! They might just be the perfect fit for your dream wedding!

          

         

             

          

Photos in order of appearance by Missy Wilson Photography, Pangburn Photography, Blackstone country club, Keator Photography, Kelli Leslie Photography, Cosey Photography, Kelli Leslie Photography, Jodi Getz Photography, Harrison Hurwitz Photography, Blackstone country club.

Nicole and Dan - Firesky Resort & Spa wedding

Christmas weddings always seem to have a sort of fairytale-esque feel to them due to all of the warm spirit and cheer already in the air from the holiday season. That is exactly what Dan and Nicole were going for when they planned their December wedding, and it was nothing short of beautiful and full of Christmas charm. The stunning FireSky Resort & Spa provided an amazing backdrop for the occasion. From the deep red bridesmaids dresses to the luxurious green linens, there was no skimping on holiday spirit. Guests were greeted by centerpieces made up of beautiful red flowers and wrapped presents (wrapped in personalized wrapping papaer, by the way). As the reception came to a close, guests were given personalized ornaments with Nicole and Dan's name and wedding date on them to remember the occasion every year around this time when the tree is brought out and the ornaments are put up. A time to reminisce our Christmas themed wedding of Dan and Nicole and wish them a Happy two year anniversary! Thanks to Eyes 2 See for the shots!

Big thanks to our friends Eyes 2 See Photography, The Invitation Lady, Brides by Demetrios, Tri Rentals, Creative Touch Entertainment, and Bing's Floral!

Featured Couple: Darrelyn and Brent

Meet our featured couple of the month - Darrelyn and Brent!

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Their spring wedding at Blackstone Country Club in Peoria is looking to be one of our favorites to date. The wedding design will be gorgeous and with these two as the center of attention it is bound to be a great time! Big thanks to Marriott Photography for the beautiful engagement session. To see the rest of their engagement photos, check out the blog from Marriott!

Kat'eia & Mike - Inspirador wedding

Ka'teia and Mike married in early October at Inspirador, reasons we LOVE this wedding:

1. Something different than black tuxes!!!

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2. We ALREADY have the pictures! (and wonderful ones at that). Thank you Kelsey Pinkerton!

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3. The beautiful and yummy cake from Phoenix Cake Company!

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4. How adorable and genuine they are together!

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 Enjoy a few more photos from one of our recent, fabulous and so much fun, weddings! Congratulations and best wishes to Ka'teia and Mike!

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  Flowers by Wild Child Floral Design

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          Jumping the broom!

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Honeymoon Hot Spot

Does a year round temperate climate, beautiful beaches, and incredible sightseeing sound like what you would like to surround yourself with on your honeymoon? If so, then I think Fiji might be the place for you!

For starters, the average temperature is between 79 and 87 degrees all year. Fiji is an archipelago of islands about 2200 miles off coast of New Zealand. The official language is Fijian, and they also speak Hindi, but the main language spoken is English. The two major islands are Viti Levu and Vanua Levu they are the biggest islands with the largest populations. The former contains Suva, the capital and largest city. The majority of tourists visit the Nadi and Denarau islands as they have the most resorts and attractions.

Jacks of Fiji on Nadi Island is a very popular spot for shopping and picking up interesting trinkets. There's also an arts village in Pacific Harbour that offers shopping and cultural experience.

The Kula Eco Park on Viti Levu is the "environmental showplace of the South Pacific". It includes a large coastal forest to explore and a bird park to observe the native wildlife.

And of course, since it's an island, there are plenty of scuba diving opportunities and expansive beaches to relax on.

One of the most impressive resorts to stay at is Turtle Island. It's actually a whole island that only accommodates 14 couples at any time. Each private villa or "bure" also features it's own private beach and "bure mama", a person there to cater only to you on your stay. How romantic!

After doing all the research for this post, all I have to say is where do I sign up?!?

All photos from turtlefiji.com

A Day to Cherish Strikes a Pose!

We all do it, at some point in our lives...stand in front of the mirror, pucker our lips, and think about what it would be like if we were 5 inches taller, 15 pounds lighter and our job was to grace the cover of Glamour magazine. Every girl has a moment when they dream of a day in the life of a super model. Well, how lucky we are! The A Day to Cherish team had the luxury and LUCK to spend an evening giggling, primping and sipping champagne for our fun, fun, fun photoshoot at Kimberly Jarman Photography. Yes, we needed new headshots for the website, but would JC Penny posed portraits cut it? Of COURSE NOT! We had to make this an event, and a fun one at that! We spent the evening playing dress up and, if only for a few minutes, pretending we all were 'Gisele-esque. We had lots of fun, tons of laughs and came out with some adorable pictures of our team. Thanks again to Kim Jarman and Jenny for opening the studio and putting up with us for the night! We love you!      

           

Becca & Mike - Firesky Resort wedding

What do you do when you want a striking reception, amazing food, a flower dog and a full dessert station and you only have 3 and a half months until wedding day? Hire A Day to Cherish! We met Becca and her mother less than 4 months before her wedding day. Eager to get started and full of ideas, Becca asked us to help pull everything together into one cohesive event. Justine Miller took the amazing shots below that show off the contemporary decor which we had the pleasure of working with Jill from Avant Garde to design. Big thanks to Desert House, Let them Eat Cake, La Dolce Pesca, String Serenade, Sarah San Marco, Taryn Senseman and especially the staff at Firesky! We pulled it together in a few short months, lucked out and completed the ceremony 30 minutes short of a rain storm and had a fantastic event, beautiful decor and a glowingly happy bride and groom. Congrats Becca and Mike!

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Vendor Spotlight: Phoenix Cake Company

One thing that makes wedding coordination fun is all the wonderful vendors we get to meet and work with. Finding someone that is easy to work with and that our clients love is always such an exciting thing! One of our favorites is Phoenix Cake Company. We have had the pleasure of working with Christy several times and just love her product! Of course.....we would never send a bride to a baker who doesn't make fabulous cake! Cake might be the most important part of the wedding! (OK, maybe second to the dress !)

Lets not forget to mention that Phoenix Cake Co. made a cake for pop-star Rihanna's birthday party and were featured on TLC's Ultimate Cake Off! Check out a few favorites that they have made for some of our lucky brides!

If you want to sample some of their wonderful cake, cupcakes or other delightful bakery items, you can check out their new sister store - Caketini -that has opened for retail at San Tan mall.  Or, check out their website for more pictures, products and flavors.  http://www.christyscakesupplies.com/index.htm .

Pictures courtesy of Light Rain Images, Jane Jordan Photography and Pinkerton Photography.

How To: Have Fun Getting Ready

The time you spend preparing to walk down the aisle should be just as unforgettble as the actual event. Here are a few ideas on how to make the process fun and memorable.

1. Decide Who Will Be There

It takes quite a while for everyone to have their hair and makeup done, and to get on all your dresses. Make sure to surround yourself with people you know will make the day stress free and fun. If you're stressing out while getting ready, it could put a damper on the rest of the day.

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2. Personalize the Space

You'll want the room everyone is in to be tranquil and calming. Burn some candles to take the edge off and add a festive atmosphere. If candles aren't allowed wherever you're getting ready, try some reed diffusers.

3. Set the Mood

Getting ready can feel like being in the locker room before a big game. To add to the fun mood, have each bridesmaid burn a CD of songs that are inspired by memories they share with you, it will lighten the stress and get everyone laughing and reminiscing.

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4. Supply Snacks

A big mistake many brides make is not eating much on their big day, usually do to the high stress. But that is a bad idea, as a balanced sugar level keeps stress under control. Keep fruit or veggie platters in the bridal suite to munch on throughout the day without creating a mess or filling you up too much. Also, having water, juice, and soda on hand is a good idea to keep everyone hydrated.

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5. Keep Entertained

Set a cheerful mood by playing a favorite movie in the background if there is a TV. Drink some herbal tea, which can help calm nerves. Ask each of the bridesmaids to contribute a favorite pampering product to a tray for everyone to share. Bring pictures from your bachelorette party and wedding showers to pass around while getting ready, it will be fun to reminisce in anticipation of the day ahead of you.

Most importantly, have fun! This is one of the most important days of your life, don't let the stress and nervousness be the only thing you remember.

Photos courtesey of: David de Dios, One Fine Day, Eyes 2 See, Priddy Photo, Kimberly Jarman Photography

Michelle & Mark - Grayhawk Golf Club wedding

In honor of the upcoming holiday season (already!!) we wanted to post some fun pictures of our New Year's Eve 2009 wedding. Michelle and Mark traveled all the way from Chicago to enjoy the beautiful evening weather that Phoenix had to offer.  Being a destination wedding, the invitations, designed by See Saw Design, mimicked an airline ticket adorned with blue and green confetti. The invitation set the tone for the fun, festive event to bring in 2010 with a bang! Jane Zarzynski Photography did an amazing job with the pictures. Thanks to Grayhawk, Lollicakes, Taryn Hitchings, Flowers by Jodi, Larry James, Scrapbooth and Phoenix Cake Co. for making this event so perfect for Michelle and Mark! It is time to evaluate our 2010 goals and resolutions because before we know it, another year will be upon us! Enjoy the images and let's start gearing up for the upcoming year and all the fun, memories and fabulous pictures 2011 will bring!!

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Lolli cakes.....yummy!

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The always adorable flower girl shot!!

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Our happy couple at the Westin Kierland!

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Stunning night time ceremony !

SHOES!!!!

How can I not do a blog about some of the awesome wedding shoes we see! Shoes are possibly my favorite thing in the world. I always say, if I won the lottery I would not buy a new house, or a new car, I would spend my money on a chef, a massage therapist, and lots of shoes. I even have a habit of buying cute shoes that match nothing I own and never wearing them. Oops. I guess everyone has their weakness!  :) Having colored weddings shoes, or just shoes that are fabulous in general, is definitely the current wedding trend. Check out some of our recent favorites!   

You Can Totally Wear That Again!

Most of us have a few pretty bridesmaids dresses hanging in our closet that were worn once for a few hours and then rarely glanced at after. When are you ever going to wear them again? Ah, but it is possible. Here are a few ideas on how to "re-wear" a bridesmaid dress. With the right accesories, an old dress is good as new.

A pretty peachy orange dress can be made to be less formal with some good accesories. Pair it with some low key beige flats, gold bangles, and an orange necklace for a chic look that no one will ever guess was once crammed in the back of your closet.

Aqua blue looks really great with white accesories. A summery sleeveless dress can be worn again for fall if paired with a cute cardigan. Some casual sandals and a pretty cocktail ring make this a perfect outfit for a daytime party or meeting with friends.

A floor length dress can easily be made more wearable by...

Shortening it!

A shorter version of this dress makes a good "night out" outfit. Paired with a bold bracelet, some statement earrings, and great heels the outfit goes from plain to wow!

You see, with the right additions an otherwise overlooked dress can become a new wardrobe staple, you totally can wear it again!

All pictures of dresses and accesories are from J. Crew and Forever 21.

Honeymoon Hot Spot

One of everyone's favorite parts to their wedding - the HONEYMOON! This week we wanted to shine the spotlight on a hot honeymoon location that everyone in the A Day to Cherish offices agrees, is fabulous! (Not that any of us have been there....yet!)

St. Barts....

Known for brilliant blue waters, white sand beaches and high-end couture shopping, this Euro-flavored island in the French West Indies is one of our favorites. Though you will pay to honeymoon like the rich and famous, here is why we think it's worth splurging!

SHOPPING!

The island of St Barts has more than 200 duty free boutiques that make it the best luxury shopping location in the Caribbean. On the Rue de la Republique (also called Rue Du Corturier), in the capital city of Gustavia you will find all your designer heart can imagine. From Bulgari, Cartier and Dior to Hermes and Louis Vuitton. You will also find island inspired clothing and accessories at specialty stores like Poupette (Uma Thurman’s a fan and so are we).

WATER!

If you (or your new hubby) prefer the cool ocean breeze to the hot fashion trends, St Barts will offer everything you can imagine. Your hotel concierge can arrange scuba diving, windsurfing, sailing, water and jet skiing, and deep sea fishing. You can charter a boat to snorkel and enjoy a champagne picnic at the ultra-private Colombier beach.

FOOD!

Seafood heavy menus provide the freshest most delightful of cuisine. Maya’s, a popular open-air restaurant on the dock near Gustavia harbor is both a local and tourist favorite and the menu changes daily! La Langouste is a casual lobster joint within the affordable Hotel Baie de Anges.

WEATHER!

The average daily temperature ranges from 76 to 82 degrees. (enough said!)

ACCOMODATIONS!

Some of the favorite celeb hotels include Eden Rock, Hotel Guanahani, Hotel St-Barth Isle de France.

Can you imagine waking up to this every morning! Even if you never leave your room, this view is worth the splurge!