Visit Style Me Pretty’s full post for more goodness from Erin Hearts Court!!
[Which, as an aside- now being pregnant myself, I COMMEND Courtney for rocking this day at 5 months pregnant!!]

xoxo,

A.

Our very own DAWN marries her beloved Jack in just 3 days. And I simply cannot wait any longer. The event is set to be such a unique, inspired, modern event! Cannot wait to show you all the amazing details!

xoxo,

You can thank Bruehl for these beauties. I mean, not only are they an amazingly modern, innovative tulip-cup-o-love shape, but the colors are to die for. Really with the electric pink?! I die. And guess what y’all…. they make a couch version too. That’s all I’m saying.

Thanks to Trendier for the post, so that I could get inspired today to create, innovate, and endlessly more.

xoxo,

A small, intimate, style-filled morning after brunch with your nearest and dearest celebrating you two once again?! SIGN ME UP! Or rather, let us plan it for you! ;) Rush off to see the details on the feature!!

xoxo,

A.

The Top 3 teams pictured along with the Utterly Engaged gals; and of course our *adorable* “sak-tails”, which were saki-bomb style signature drinks

Our ITN team was rep-re-sentin’ at the party!! We’re essentially the entire right side of this group shot. :)

Once we get more images of the sweetheart setup, we’ll go crazy explaining all the details, but suffice it to say that we’d be nowhere in this design without our trusty partners, Creative Media Print, and our new friend Kim at Art With Nature [truly a floral genius]!

Now- scamper on over and read that latest issue!!
xoxo,

A.

From all of us, to you… we are so thrilled to see where the future takes us!

xoxo,

Rachel applying a “his” and “hers” vinyl monogram to some sweetheart chairs

Nestling candle couples and putting finishing touches onto a on-site-assembled centerpiece… phew!

Basic duties of a graphics intern:

*Attend any graphics-related design meetings [such as invitation design, working directly with client, and/or tabletop trial to discuss detail ideas]
*Create invitation options for couples to consider, working with a color palette and a general/vague [or possibly specific] idea from their designer
*Utilize any unique requests from couple/designer to create custom pieces within an invitation suite
*Work with an existing [alternate designer's] graphic piece to form a cohesive look on the wedding day by providing details for client [such as font matching to already-sent invitations so that the design flows continuously]
*Work in a TIMELY manner with set turnaround times to designer/client between revision rounds
*Set documents to correct “print ready” files and be aware of the meaning of this term; work with our design vendors to set up accurate and easy-to-navigate files for all detail elements concepted

Basic duties of a floral intern:

*Attend any floral-related design meeting [such as initial floral meeting and/or tabletop trial]
*Learn the art of placing floral order, stem counts, and accurately pricing events
*Familiarize yourself with the floral market and/or vendors located in/near the market in downtown Los Angeles
*Assist the floral design team on dates of floral trials and assembly of weddings
*Assist and install on wedding days
*Be ready and willing to learn all that you do NOT know; bring eagerness to the table – that covers a multitude of “lack” in experience

sending a gorgeous bride literally UP the aisle at another fave venue, Soka University

Rachel and a ridiculous amount of donuts… when the car is packed, THIS is the option!

Lisa and some *adorable* grilled cheese late night snacks

We’ve considered, for a graphics person, the allowance of a design-from-afar personality, but our hunger to connect with one another trumps this desire. However, if you feel like you’re the EXACT one we’re looking for… even though you’re 6 states away, I do encourage you to reach out and apply!

As I mentioned in our initial blog post about adding to our team, we have a delicately balanced dynamic… which is why we’re considering these two roles- although very desirable at this point in time- an added “bonus” for us! Since we do offer graphics to nearly every client [usually working in conjunction with an invitation designer and our own skills in-house], we’re fond of the idea of growing up this side of our company. And since we do consider floral design something that ties directly into our job as event designers [though we offer floral services quite selectively to our clientele and have to be absolutely convinced that we're the BEST fit for them and their needs prior to doing so], we’d love to tie either of these skills into the one person that may meet all of our needs as a Design Assistant! If we could roll you into one giant person…. exceptional! If not all of these areas fit your skill or heart’s desire, just say so. We just want to ensure we’re being clear and communicative on our end for what our little growing family needs! So, please, don’t hesitate to connect to us with your Random Rundown, Resume and/or Portfolio to Carizza by 3/18 at 12pm with the subject line: Floral(or Graphic Design) Intern/Name for consideration!

xoxo,

on our way up to our annual January team retreat to Big Bear in January- one of TWO cars full of love lovin’ gals!

Miri and Sharon with our favorite Bobby of TACT Management at one of our favorite venues, Marvimon!

Basic duties include the following:

*Assisting planners at meetings such as space walk thrus, client planning update meetings, timeline creation meetings, vendor meetings
*Scheduling of appointments on behalf of planners
*Office orchestrational duties [such a prepping and printing paperwork for the day-of the wedding, and MORE]
*Shadowing planning team on the day-of the event
*Attend and assist planner with rehearsal needs the day prior to events

And so, so, so much more!

caught off guard at our own Carizza’s December nuptials with Lisa

Alicia wearing a tiny, tiny, ever-so-tiny hat at a group trip to Downtown LA

Carizza, Rachel, Kristen, Lisa, and Brittany flashing smiles and hearts at this past weekend’s wedding!

Since, really, each client of ours and each wedding experience is unique, we’re looking for the right combination of organized/detailed that meshes with an “okay-to-fly-by-the-seat-of-our-pants” type of personality. We strive to continually better our services and our team at the benefit of each vendor and client… so a priority of excellence [and the sacrifices that are paired with a dedication to such] is essential. Plus, we love a great smile [and more than that, we love someone who just choses to use that smile as a default position]. This position will truly be one that is meant to help graft you, as an intern, into this industry with a possibility of grafting you into our team- so we’re looking for serious candidates only! Everything has a “try it on” time, and if you’re thinking this may be for you… well, we suggest you try it on for a bit!

And, on a personal note from myself: we have, over the years, had the privilege and honor of meeting a lot of exceptional planners. Some are quite similar to us; some are very different. In fact, there are many people who are – or could be – great planners. But we’re looking for a certain style and certain fit here. I pray to, in no way, discourage anyone that may apply and may not get the position here. Know that we encourage everyone to explore [nay, exploit!] their skills and passions fervently. But our team dynamic is special and something to be protected! As you’ve taken some time to observe our blog, our Facebook Page, and my twitter account, I think you’ll know if this is something you could see yourself as a part of! We’re not just a fun time… we’re committed to the hearts and days of our clients in a serious way [now more in 2012 than ever] and aligning ourselves with those who fold into our pack is something we’re crazy excited about! So… what are you waiting for?! Shoot over your Random Rundown, Resume and/or Portfolio to Carizza now (with the subject line line as: Planning Intern/Your name).

Remember, the deadline for all applications is Sunday, 3/18 at 12pm!

xoxo,

Carizza just trying on a ridiculously fabulous, fashionable statement-veil at a photo shoot last fall

Carizza showing her bling and “modeling” her gown, pre-wedding, with Lisa and Kristen helping!

Basic duties of our Concierge Team include:

*Infectiously inviting emails to clients, vendors and team members to aide in orchestration of weddings and team functions
*Scheduling and attending client meetings [from initial inquiry, to client orientation meetings, and more]
*Establishing a unique relationship with our couples created at inquiry and fleshed out at rehearsals and on the wedding day
*Attending to the bride/groom, family and vendor staff at each event we work
*Creating and concepting client care in all it’s forms [gifts, cards, and relationships]

And so, so, so much wordless more!

Rachel getting “Jersey Shore’d” by Lisa at our retreat

Carizza hanging 1000 paper cranes like it’s no big deal

Sending out last year’s Valentine’s was a labor of love, and one long evening!

We do know that this position is quite possibly the most unique position we’re asking for someone to fill. Not only is it PR-related, but it’s so much more personal than that. We’re looking for a heart that can bridge a great divide, to fill a space in our team that we know is needed, but we’re waiting for the right person to fill. This person may not be totally creative, and they may not be totally organized- we’re looking for the willingness to grow, adapt and change as our team does the same. But more than that, we’re looking for a commitment to people and the loving of them that is unparalleled. Someone that will add to our dynamic in such a dramatic way [and, yes, it is dramatic] may be what we’re the most excited to find- because a truly exceptional being is out there just waiting for a home, and we know it! So if this sounds like you… welcome home! Please apply by sending a Random Rundown, Resume and/or Portfolio over to Carizza by 3/18 at 12pm with the subject line: Client Concierge Intern/Your name for consideration and to set up a meeting. So much of this role will be decided upon email style [virtually meeting you is vital!] and our in-person experience of you right-off-the-bat! And trust when I say, we cannot WAIT to connect more!

xoxo,

Rachel re-filling a sweets station at a lovely summer soiree

Just gushing over some cute details from our recent Utterly Engaged Design Challenge table!

Basic duties include the following:

*Assisting designers at craft nights, trips to Los Angeles, tabletop trial meetings, floral design meetings [if applicable]
*Working with programs such as adobe illustrator/photoshop, microsoft excel/word, and a healthy commitment to social media
*Creating and assembling design documents in conjunction with [or on behalf of] our team’s designers
*Floral and or Office orchestrational duties [such as organizing samples, ribbon bins, creative vendor catalogues and MORE!]
*Shadowing the design team the day-of the event
*Attend and assist any design-driven meetings with team designers

And so, so, so much more!

Dawn, Nena, and Lisa on lovely Carizza’s wedding day

Josh literally surrounded by truffle favors at our first 2011 wedding last year!

What can only be described as “the craftermath”- the casualty of the studio after one epic crafter-noon!

Since we strive so much to create unique, impeccable details for each client, we’re looking for someone willing to take the time and effort to think of amazing, client-specific inspirations alongside of us. We know that weddings these days are creative-driven [to say the least] and we adore being a part of this movement! Our goal is to always keep our designs genuine and original [even believing that "nothing is new under the sun"... but that doesn't mean we can't flip it on it's side, change the color, and give it a fresh breath of life!]. We’re looking for one talented individual who can vibe from our crazy energy, our creative spirit, and one who can “see” the design come together in front of their eyes. Color inspirations are a must [and we looove to pop those colors modern!], and an infectious, healthy amount of laughter is something that comes along with part of the job [you know, after you suggest a 9-step-process favor packaging for a client with 250 guests in attendance....]! Since creative individuals can end up in so many lines of work, we’re hoping for the ones who love love and are committed to it just as much as we do [and are]! This role is a little bit of everything- so it takes a certain someone that’s willing to BE a little bit of everything [and, if you aren't yet- don't fret! There's time to learn... it's what this season is for].

Another quick personal note: our aesthetic is something that our team highly respects. It’s not one that everyone can fold into easily- but our love of clean lines, quirky details, and modern palettes is something we’re not willing to compromise on. Frankly, I feel blessed to have aligned a team of any amount of people who are passionate about the same “feel” that our events seem to carry through! We’re looking for those who are motivated and inspired by interior design, minimalism, “just the right amount” of detail, and unexpected elements. This may or may not be you- but we encourage and ask that a healthy dose of thought be put into your own style before striking out to say that OURS is your own, as well! We’re looking for people who will LOVE our work- but we also want you to LOVE your work! Ideally, we’d find the right candidate that would believe it to be one in the same. Taking the time to consider the ideas, inspirations, palettes and details that we feature on our Twitter Page, Facebook Page, and – of course – our blog should guide you into the right direction. Finding another member to add to this very special part of our industry and team is something we’re thrilled to consider! We’re just waiting on YOU to send over your Random Rundown, Resume and/or Portfolio to Carizza by 3/18 at 12pm (with the subject line – Design Intern/Name)- so jump ON it! I know that’s not always a designer’s strength… but it’s something crucial to this team and this industry; and something we take quite seriously! Hope to hear from you… like NOW!

xoxo,

We’ve been conjuring up this idea for a while- and frankly, debating it heavily between team members [just because, when a dynamic of a group is already so great, you worry about injuring it by adding to it] but, the time is now to trudge forward confidently knowing that our team is yearning to find a few good members for our 2012 season! We’re looking for role-specific additions to add their skills and bring their smile to the table, and over this next week, we’ll be delving more and more into what it is we’re looking for in each intern! But for now [and these intern posts will remain at the top of the blog ALL WEEK LONG], suffice it to say that In The Now is calling all who desire to use their talents as a…

Planning Intern and Assistant

Design Intern and Assistant

Client and/or Team Concierge

Now, as I said, we’ll be taking the time over this week to explain the actual traits we’re looking for in each candidate. We’ll be posting ONE position description every day for the next 4 days, starting tomorrow. Please do review each position before submitting your application, so that you apply for the position that best utilizes your strengths [though - if you stumble across one you KNOW you're the perfect fit for, then by all means - send it over pronto!]. As you’re waiting for these position posts to go up, feel free to start on the items you’ll be submitting below, and peruse our facebook, blog, and twitter accounts to get a FEEL of who we really are!

Please also be aware that we will be accepting applications for the positions with a deadline of 3/18/12 at 12noon. Anything later cannot be considered [hey, you gotta have rules sometimes... right?!].

As always, please send:

1. A resume

2. Pictures/portfolio to sway us of your amazingness (not mandatory, but always helpful, especially in design!)

3. and our favorite… a random rundown featuring 10 facts about the unique YOU [these can be as irrelevant to weddings and/or our industry as you'd like- and for examples, just visit our website- all of our bios are formatted in a "random rundown" format!].

Please email all applications by 3/18 to Carizza at 12noon, our darling Concierge (who has requested to format your subject line in a specific manner! Subject: Position/Name. This will make us more efficient ;) )

She will be scheduling all interviews [which are set to take place on Saturday, 3/24, at our studio with a host of our team members in tow- so please be aware of your schedule and available for this date]. You will be informed of whether or not you have been chosen for an interview by Tuesday, 3/20. We truly hope to meet you, hear your story, and find our even more perfect fit!

xoxo,

Like dancing legs, flowing fabric or the perfect flip of the hair… but it’s solid. It’s ice. It’s naturally made. Can you even believe it?! I am enwrapped in it. Completely immersed and totally in love.

Hope that your weekend is just as naturally inspired as this still, silent moment above!

xoxo,

Clean, Simple and loving.

Get yours at http://www.shopbando.com/

Rush over to the full feature for more pretty prettiness. I mean, seriously… leg warmers and an old upright bass!! You cannot not not not go wrong!

xoxo,

A.

I know we’ve been a wee bit MIA. It’s just, well – we HAVE been working on something pretty awesome for today’s Utterly Engaged Leap Year Remix party. I won’t spoil the surprise, but stay tuned for photos of maybe the most challenging design challenge to date.

In the meantime….we owe you guys big time. We owe you a piece of our heart, and here it is. Warning! It’s a little bit long. A little bit raw. And a little bit, ALL of us.

YOUR FAVORITE PART LEADING UP TO THE WEDDING:

AMANDA | I LOVE the table trial. It’s honestly my favorite- simply because it takes all these visions and ideas we’ve been chatting through and shows them to the client. But more than that- it becomes obvious what works, what doesn’t and why. When you’re piecing together an event in your head, sometimes you can easily “see it”- but sometimes you can’t and you’re just relying on your intuition. Plus, there’s nothing better than seeing a client truly EXCITED about their wedding- the design, the love, the day. It’s an exceptional feeling.

RACHEL | The table trial HAS to be my favorite, because up until then, people think I’m crazy in the head - I know it’ll be amazing but they don’t really know, until they see it come together at the trial. (PS Rachel gave me – Carizza – her responses over the phone, so this is related via phone to the best of my abilities – if you know Rachel AT ALL – you know that the inflection in her answers are WAY more exciting than portrayed!)

KRISTEN | My fav is that moment when it hits that everything is coming together, which is typically in the wee hours of the morn when your hair’s pulled back, makeup’s half off, missing a shoe, and elbow deep in paint. The moment varies every time and sometimes happens every few seconds, but the reaction’s still the same –  ”Dang.. that was a good one.” “Ahh that’s sooo. Freakin. Cute.” “Stop it, I can’t even handle it anymore I’m so good.” “I need some food.”

SHARON | My favorite part is the rehearsal… no one has seen it first hand, but they can all imagine it, and best part yet, their family is there and they are in the mix… it’s controlled chaos… Love it!!!

ALICIA | I love the times when the bride and groom have a moment to come in to preview their reception room before the guests come in. The looks of joy on their faces, when they see everything they’ve been imagining for months finally come to reality is utterly priceless.

YOUR FAVORITE PART OF THE CEREMONY:

DAWN | My favorite moment at a wedding is right before the bride prepares to go walk down the aisle. All her love and excitement pulled together into one. Never has there been a bride who wasn’t smiling full of love.

AMANDA | It’s a toss up between fluffing the bride’s train [typically, this is a moment that the world fades away and although she's distracted, she's kind of only with you and her father. Giving those last moments of wisdom is the best feeling- just knowing they're in good hands with you directing], and the kiss! The kiss is always so telling for me. I love watching couples- especially ones who have waited all day to see one another- finally reach for each other after [what seems like] the longest 20 minutes of their life! Nothing like a warm embrace from two people so genuinely filled with joy and love!

SHARON | When emotions are running from all ends and you send your bride down the aisle and the world stops for the 43 seconds it takes her to walk down the aisle… I’ve witnessed it… the whole world literately stops!!! I’ve googled it!!! I know! :D

ALICIA | The exchange of vows is always my favorite part. A well written exchange of love and affection gets me crying harder then most of the guests are, every time.

LISA | When the officiant pronounces the bride and groom as husband and wife for the first time. From that moment forward life is changed (!) and everyone who is there to witness has a smile on their face!!

YOUR FAVORITE PART OF THE RECEPTION:

BRITTANY | The father daughter dance. I tear up every time STILL! And of course the end of the night hug from my couple. It’s like graduation day, and I’m the proud parent lol!

RACHEL | It’s a tie between the grand entrance and the grand exit. For the entrance, it’s like, HOORAY we’re married! For the grand exit, it’s like, HOORAY life together!

MIRIAM | When the bride & groom cut the cake. Their personalities really seem to come out during this process. It’s fun to watch.

NENA | All the love..love..love.. Love seeing the new husband and wife enjoying their new time together.

CARIZZA | There’s always an inevitable moment in the reception when the bride gets separated from the groom (whether its Aunt Mildred pulling him to the dance floor, or his buddies congratulating him). And while searching through the crowds of her friends and family, the bride asks, “Do you know where…my husband…is?” And she smiles softly, cuz she just called him her *husband* for possibly the first time ever.  She’s not used to saying it yet, of course, and it means the world! A small moment I know, but such a precious one.

AMANDA | Grand entrance is up there for me. Again, another moment when the world goes quiet and, as they wait for the DJ, our team gets a moment to banter, congratulate and prep the couple for the coming moments. They’re giddy and distracted and listening to the music and hearing their names announced together- it’s a flutter of excitement! Plus, I love walking couples through their cake cutting ceremony. :) You know honestly, I just kinda LOVE everything about weddings.

AND there you have it. We love everything about weddings. What’s your favorite part? We’d LOVE to hear. Cuz likely, it’s our favorite part too! ;) xoxo!

The draping on the pieces is perfection in every way. I LOVE that the chain connects multiple places and creates a “just right” feel and shape to the hanging lace.

Like a feather, only better:

Bride or maid, I find these pieces to be truly fantastic and I would LOVE to see them in person! And, if the array of gorgeous necklaces wasn’t enough, I stumbled onto these:

I am swooning, completely in LOVE with them [too bad I don't wear earrings very often]. Tempting though, aren’t they? Scootch on over to her shop for more options and to see the incredible work in all it’s glory!!!

Have a lovely, wonderful, inspired Friday, y’all!!

xoxo,

I’ve been inspired quite a bit lately by the look, feel, and raw qualities of geodes and minerals. So, this is right up my alley. I can only blame Pinterest for the introduction [and the hours of googling, and the slightly saddened heart that I couldn't even find MYSELF this perfect Valentine's day gift].

Tell me a set like this on your living room wall isn’t something to squeal over:

I honestly can’t even pick a favorite! I would die for even a print or COPY of a few of these fantastic pieces. I’m deeply enamored. And this gal deserves all the buzz she’s getting right now… and some. Here’s to hoping I get to see lots more of Carly’s work in the future….. in my living room.

Oh yah- and happy weekend everyone!!

xoxo,

They are a bit short [read: stylish] so they may not be right for everyone, but dang if those gals ain’t working’ their gams- am I right?!

Rush off to the full wedding feature if you want to see MORE of the fun wedding these were a part of [including the bridal gown, by the same designer]! And, as always- have a HAPPY FRIDAY, a FUN WEEKEND, and a HEART full of the best kinds of things [like love!!!]!

xoxo,

We heard word that they’ll be LOCAL (they’re usually in LA, which is definitely still worth a drive!).

SO excited that they’ll be coming to us. I hope that some of you lovely looking brides get to take advantage of this! =)

- e-Magazines. Especially when viewed on an iPad, those images just JUMP out. YUM.

- When our styled shoots from TWO years ago are still being published.

- When said styled shoot, from two years ago, is IN an e-Magazine, with the bride being a follow industry professional, and the photographer just as lovely as she was when we last worked together.

Kristin and Dustin are most loved on our blog for their styled shoot, inspired by Sleeping Beauty. Not only is Kristin a local photographer with the most fun giveaways, but she is also the only person over 6 years old who can rock a skort. We’re all jealous Kris, seriously.

Their photographer, Bethany Belle, was just as excited as we were to have a styled engagement shoot (which we love – and hope our clients do more often!). Bethany also shot fresh and so clean-clean photos of their wedding.

We are stoked that this shoot is such a classic. Thank you to Nuptials e-Magazine (San Diego) for the feature – you can see the full (FOUR page spread!) here!