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If you haven’t heard of Jasmine Star or have seen her work, check your pulse.  Her work is fabulous and her blog is awesome because she offers such a candid and inspiring perspective into her life and work.  The woman is beautiful, both inside and out, and as I followed her trip to Mexico, I see that she and I could do some real damage at a jazz spot or  on some churros.  Te amo, Jasmine!

At any rate, Jasmine has just revamped her blog and it is GORGEOUS. I love the magazine look.

So long, Nikki!  She’s been eighty sixed, and by God, was I happy to see her go.

I knew she was going to be the one eliminated just by the way she whined about making mayonnaise by hand.  She just wasn’t cut out for it.  She had a prime opportunity when she and the groom really hit it off with their similar palates and affinity for Italian foods.  My Lipgloss, the woman is Italian and has perfected many Italian dishes on the show– wonderful time to show up and show off.

Because she had this experience, her team looked to her for her expertise and insight.  What does she do? Drop the ball and shirk the responsibility.  BAD freakin’ move.  Chef means "chief" or "head" in French, these are typically description of leaders. It’s not called Top Whiner, Top Shirker, or Top Shying Violet.  Nikki had an opportunity to command three other reasonably good chefs to create something she is an expert in.  Instead, she had the "you do your thing, I’ll do mine". 

For example– Dale, who for all intents and purposes, is a jerk, however, Dale was working his tail off and because he had no direction about Italian food (by his own admission, he does not make it or specialize in it).  he did his own thing (and did it horribly). As he was making a ragù, Nikki asked him what he was doing and what his ingredients were.  Basically, Dale said that he was making a tomato sauce with very little tomatoes. Genius at its best, yet I digress.  Nikki grew indifferent and said in so many words "That’s on him".

WHAT??

Wedding planning interns, you can learn a lot from this:

You are a team! And you are only as strong as the weakest person on your team– leader or not.  If you specialize in something and see someone doing it wrong, you need to let them know.  You do not become a rockstar by watching your teammate inadvertently sink the ship and absolve yourself by saying "Glad it’s not me". Oh no, mon petit luxeling, it is you– it is all of us. 

If your planner gives you a task, you never know if it is the test.  You’ve made it through the very harrowing and consuming selection process. If s/he didn’t see potential in you, you wouldn’t be there.  Well, at least in my book. My motto is "Go fabulous or go home!"  You cannot be afraid to step up to the plate and do your best– if you see an opportunity to lead, take it.  This industry isn’t for the timid, the shy or easily intimidated. You’ve got one shot to get it right.  If you’ve go what it takes, take it– show up and show off!

But if you even THINK that letting another assistant coordinator or intern working on the wedding do something wrong or haphazardly won’t come back to bite you…YOU might be the one who might be gone.

I love this little lass; she’s a cutie.

We can all agree that people say stupid things. When they say stupid things about your wedding… Mmm, it can be a tad bit annoying and conflicting. But what if it is a vendor?  How do you deal with that? Easy. You get your hand on your hip, hold up your right hand, point your index finger, roll your neck and say "Oh no you di-n’t!"

Ok. So I’m joking.

Sorta.

So let’s explore the stupid things vendors say when they should just say "Congratulations on your engagement" and leave you alone:

With our service, you don’t even need a wedding planner/coordinator!:  Oh no you di-n’t!  How would YOU (the vendor) know?  It irritates the lipstick out of me when I hear a vendor say this to the client not knowing what their wedding entails– the details, the relationships, the design concepts, etc.  So when the DJ tells you that his services are THAT good that you don’t need a planner or a coordinator, seriously ask him (or her) when would be the best time to contact him about invitation wording for when your mother has remarried and your father has passed away and you want them both on the invite.  Then ask him what particular shade of red makes tiffany blue pop– raddichio or barn red?  Better yet, ask him how he plans to get the lipstick out of your dress prior to the ceremony…and prior to his schedule arrival.

Call me and let me know what he says.

You’re going with THAT {insert what you want here}?!:  Oh no you di-n’t!  I have several patented responses, but my favorite is, "Well, if you like {what they want}, you are more than welcome to buy it for me!"  Remember, it’s your wedding…and while everyone and their fabmother will have an opinion on what you should be doing, it happens.  However, when they become rude or condescending about a choice hat you chose and is dear to you– that’s what I have a problem with.  It’s your wedding. Do what you want.  Even if it is the McWedding, it’s still your special day…and if you like, it I love it, and I’ll make it happen for you. All your vendors should feel this way.  After all, you pay us to feel this way. Not to play Tim Gunn.

You paid how much for THAT {Another wedding service that you’ve already contracted}!? I know someone who got the same thing for much less!:  Oh no you di-n’t!  Not only do they get a "ONYD", but they get to help themselves to a free cup of "Shut the Hell Up".  This irritates me as well, because nothing will drive a bride more insane than to have her decision to hire a vendor questioned by another vendor she is considering.  It’s kind of like when your mom would say "Eat your peas. There are children starving in Mongolia".  I was always the smart one that said "Name one".  Of course, that landed me in my room, but the same premise is true for your vendors.  Tell them to name one or to prove it.  You will find that a majority of the time that price is old, based on different circumstances that don’t apply to your situation or is just a fabrication.  It’s not the florist’s job to grill you as to how much you paid for your DJ or why you chose to fly this particular one from Kalamazoo. 

Their correspondence looks like this:

Your package is $7500. I require 50% down.

Mr. Photographer.

Oh no you di-n’t! What ever happened to common courtesy?  What does a girl have to do to get a decent salutation around here?  When asking for an exorbitant amount of money, is it really too much to ask for a little personality, courtesy and dare I say it…professionalism?  If your vendor is that self absorbed and can’t muster up enough niceties to speak to you the way a client should be spoken to, you can best believe, girlfriend, that come wedding time, you will HATE him.

We don’t do contracts…Don’t worry, we’ll be there:  Oh no you di-n’t!  It astounds me that some vendors honestly think that someone is going to fork over hundreds, if not thousands on a hope and a prayer that they will show up.  Honey, please!  No one is falling for that– I don’t care how long they’ve been in business, that just doesn’t fly.  If at any time a vendor drags their feet on getting you a contract, leave them. They either don’t want to work with you or aren’t business savvy. Nothing good will come out of it.  Remember, a contract protects you and them.  I’m sure they are lovely people and are so very nice.  However, see how nice you think they are when they fall through.  Let me now how that works out for you.

That’s not my job or You don’t pay me enough to…:  Oh no you di-n’t!   Let’s put it on the table– most vendors feel like this, but they shouldn’t say it or say it in a way that is completely and utterly rude. But let’s also put it on the table that you don’t own anyone that day either.  But if it is something small like relaying a message to another member of the event staff, moving an item (not a large one, FYI),  doing a little extra (like taking additional pictures during the shoot with some special VIPs or playing a special request or making an announcement, or even help with bustling a dress) is just a nice thing to do…and you want nice people working with you on your wedding day, not egomaniacs or Mordecai from Children of the Corn.

As always, I can’t stress enough to you how important it is to pay attention to the service and/or treatment you receive prior to signing a contract.  I have seen a lot of brides who put up with substandard or downright rude treatment from vendors because they "love" their work or it’s their dream venue. Can it, toots.  That dream will soon turn into a nightmare, and you will resent writing those checks.  And stand up for yourself!

If something is about to transpire that you know is wrong or have a gut feeling is wrong, put that index finger up, honey and say "Oh no you di-n’t!" and write and tell me all about it!

It’s tonight on Bravo! 

You all know I’m a sucker for awesome food and then series challenge of doing a wedding just makes it all the better for me!  I can’t wait to see Collichio and Padma’s critiques tonight. It looks like it’s going to be a good one from the previews and it definitely gives an alternative perspective for the audience  who are used to attending weddings or seeing ditzy planners play them on TV.

Do I have any other foodies or Top Chef fans? 

Ok, so not deadly. But definitely sexy! 

Whenever the Captain and I (who celebrated a birthday yesterday– happy birthday, baby!) go away, we have a "tradition" of getting a new scent.  I never realized how very significant this was until weeks after our trip.  I can smell my clothes, hair accessories, or the scent itself, and I am transported back in time. I can literally see, feel and experience everything I did on that trip. It’s very nostalgic for me. 

I wondered if other luxelings were like that– and what day would you want to remember more than your wedding day?  I’m not a big fan of scenting your event (as I saw suggested horrifically by one wedding glossy); I think it can have adverse reactions. However, I am all about scenting you.  Your signature wedding scent should be all about YOU.  Your personality, your inner diva, your wedding day, your love for your honey, and everything you want all of that to embody.

In Miami, we were able to scope out some new scents that j’adore!  They really are beautiful…

I have loved Lolita Lempicka for years.  For one, the little bottle is just too darn cute. A sweet little apple   The scent is so light and sweet, and it’s not too overbearing, but subtle enough to be succulent. 

Description:

Once upon a time in the mystical, magical, fairytale world of Lolita Lempicka, she conjured up the intoxicating sweet fragrance of Liquorice Flower, the floral notes of Iris Amarena a dash of violet and finished with hints of Vanilla, Musk and Patchouli…casting this spell on women, Lolita brought out their innermost femininity, strength and confidence ….take a step in to the wondrous world of Lolita Lempicka… and smell like a dream…

My first trip to Jamaica was Miami Glow, and I loved it!  Then I smelled Live Luxe, and swooned!  It’s fabulous!  It’s sexy, it’s bold, and fresh.  It contains  pear, peach, amethyst freesia, muguet petals, musk, and amber.

Right next to Live Luxe was Deseo.  The Captain adored this one!  The bottle is pretty– and if your man likes it, then honey, you know you must get it!  It has notes of watery bamboo leaves, garden yuzu, Sicilian bergamot, freesia, star jasmine, pink geranium flower, orange blossom, french mimosa, warm amber, oak moss, sensual musks, creamy sandalwood, cedarwood, patchouli, and mineral accord.

Apparently, it was inspired by a walk in Jennifer’s garden right before a thunderstorm.  You can even get a free sample at www.jenniferlopezbeauty.com

Red Delicious by DKNY was an awesome find!  It was extremely sultry and fresh.

From Sephora:

Notes: Champagne Accord, Lychee, Red Raspberry, Apple, Rose, Vanilla Bean, Patchouli, Amber, Sensual Skin Accord, Raspberry.

Style: Tempting. Sexy. Delicious.

Azzaro’s Chrome Legend is a beautiful scent for men! I mean, it is seriously romance in a bottle.  Perfect for the groom who wants to get his WeddingSexy on while still maintaining his manhood  

From Sephora:

Notes:  Bitter Orange, Apple, Aquatic Accords, Tonka Bean, Sweet Musk.

Style: Fresh. Modern. Adventurous.

Speaking of manhood, Calvin Klein’s Man, super sexy.  It’s crisp and refined, but also mellow and discreet. 

From Sephora:

Notes: Rosemary, Mandarin, Bay, Nutmeg, Incense, Spearmint, Cypress Wood, Bergamot, Violet Leaf, Guaiac Wood, Sandalwood, Amberwood, Musk.

Style: Iconic. Masculine. Sexy.

I am  big Juicy couture fan, so of course, when I saw this I had to give it a whirl, and it was really nice. It’s flirty and girly and it has some light notes, but they make a statement!

From Sephora:

Notes: Watermelon, Mandarin, Pink Passion Fruit, Marigold, Green Apple, Water Hyacinth, Crushed Leaves, Tuberose Absolute, Wild Rose, Princess Lily, Tuberose, Caramel Creme Brulee, Vanilla, Precious Woods, Patchouli.

Style:  Flirtatious. Romantic. Precious.

These are just some of my recent favorites, but I have also liked:

1.  P. Diddy’s Unforgivable

2. Usher’s Usher for Him

3.) Anything by Escada (I so heart them!)

4.)  Lancome’s Miracle and Allure Sport for (both for men)

What’s your scent?

Going modern for your wedding can be quite an invigorating step in to the Anti-Blah-OMG-Another-Freaking-Ballroom-Wedding  experience for both you and your guests.  Presentation is everything– so when your guests are enamored, enthralled and down right in luxe with your setup, they look forward to seeing what is next. 

I initially saw these Studio Capiz Shell Candleholders on Casa Sugar today and thought they would make awesome centerpieces (especially when set upon mirrors) or another staple in the decor.  The lines are so clean and the light isn’t blatant or overbearing so it’s perfect for candlelight conversation.

{Photo :: JC Penney}

These unconventional beauties are another find that I spotted at Casa Sugar, which pays homage to Danny Seo, a green lifestyle expert.  I love Danny’s use of single hydrangea stems hung upside down.  It’s clean, it’s fabulous and it’s minimal.  It’s also functional, as the stem’s water source is at the top of the container.

{Photo :: Daily Danny Blog}

Another minimalistic, yet beautiful centerpiece option is ikebana.  Ikebana ha several techniques like Tatebana (standing flower)  and the more relaxed Nageire-bana ("thrown in" flower).  The beauty of all ikebana is the way that nothing is haphazard; it is delicately planned and artistically assembled.  Also check out Ikebana International for more ideas.

{Photo :: Ikebana Flowers New York}

Ditch the boring round plates and rent some more updated flat and diningware.  Try these gorgeous angled plates (The Uptown Plate :: Let’s Entertain Rentals).  From chargers to dessert plates (seen left), adding in square plates adds that modern feel to your guests’ eating experience.  Want to take it up a notch?  Look for plates in varying colors like black, clear, or silver, or check out these Square Soho Glass Plates by Celebrations Party Rental.  You could also get completely WeddingSexy by trying different finishes like resin.  Remember not to stop with just the dining plates– look for angular presentations for your hors d’oeuvres, amuse bouche and buffets.

Let’s not forget about the barware, luxelings!  Check out these modern Champagne glasses from Chiasso ($28).  First of all they are just gorgeous, and I promise you– you will use them again, unlike the engraved 1984 "Kari and John Forever" flutes you are contemplating getting from the invitation book…and if you don’t, I’ll come over to your house and use them.  They are fun and hip!  There is even a martini glass for rent that is similar in design.  Also check out stemless martini and wine glasses too!

She was lucky number 22, as randomly chosen by the generator at Random.org!

We would like to congratulate Lori on her big win in the "Style Your Dream Wedding" book giveaway!

I would like to thank everyone that entered and urge you to check out the book– it is a definite keeper.  I love it and was blessed and honored to receive a copy!

Lori, please contact us at blog {at} fabuluxeinc.com, and we will get it right to you!

Enjoy!

Who doesn’t love David Tutera?

I mean, seriously, how much MORE fabulous could your event be with him as your wedding planner? Well here is your chance!

Here are the details from GotCast Casting:

Let celebrity wedding planner David Tutera enhance your wedding on WE TV!

Making your dream wedding a reality can be almost impossible. And if you or someone you know is getting married THIS SUMMER, then there’s very little time left to make that dream come true. That’s why “My Fair Wedding,” the newest lifestyle show from the Women’s Entertainment Network, is offering a few lucky brides a chance to have celebrity wedding planner David Tutera enhance and upgrade their weddings before it’s too late!

In 2006, Modern Bride Magazine honored David as one of the Top 25 Trendsetters of The Year. With a few thousand dollars and his extensive knowledge and skill, David Tutera can bring some last-minute elegance to your fast-approaching nuptials.

If you or someone you know has spent months planning that dream wedding, and something STILL isn’t quite right, enroll today!

Requirements:
- wedding date
- a picture of the bride
- why she needs David’s help!
- weddings should take place in July or August, 2008!

Leading Entertaining Expert David Tutera is hailed as an artistic visionary whose ability, uniquely creative talents and outstanding reputation have made him a tremendous success in the lifestyle arena. Tutera has Created a name for himself by taking his passion for designing spectacular events and transforming it into a lifestyle.? He continuously exceeds the expected with an unmatched level of inspiration, imagination, and innovation to create the latest trends in entertaining.

To enter, go here.  Good luck!