"That's Life"...Really Surprises are Fun

Many times you meet grooms who simply "show up" at their wedding. Other times, you meet grooms who really want to be a huge part of their wedding although most of the grooms fall into the happy area between the two extremes.

Every once and a while you meet a man who loves his fiance'/new wife so much that he wants to impress everyone at their reception. Whether it comes from the idea of "one-upping" a sibling or in-law or simply wanting display his love, men do some interesting and innovating activities (and yes, someone already pulled the grandma panties and rubber chicken out with the garter).

Last Saturday really rated in a top-notch display of vocal talent that almost made this MC stop for a kleenex moment. Not only did Dennis attend a Bridal Academy session last year with Angie (his fiance'), he also (at the reception) belted out an awesome version of "That's Life" that would have made Frank perk up his ears. I am really glad that the video guy got the three and a half minutes on video because that will be something their kids and grandkids will want to hear/see. "You did what at your wedding??"

So brides, if your man wants to surprise you with a special activity, simply ask him to plan well and practice, practice, practice. Also make sure he consults with the band or DJ/MC so the timing and sound become a flawless expression of his love and devotion.

Dennis, you did an awesome job!! Keep singing! Angie, you got yourself a great guy!!

Congratulations to the newlyweds!

"Bridesmaids...Your Special Friends"

Be sure to mark your calendar. Pick up the phone and call to reserve your place at the August session of Bridal Academy.





Bridal Academy is for newly engaged brides-to-be as well as upcoming brides who are working on their wedding planning. Bridal Academy presenters are all experienced wedding professionals from the Fort Wayne area. They feel passionately about helping brides make their wedding a truly splendid experience.



Each bride is encouraged to bring one guest with them to share in the learning experience. This event is no charge for the bride and her guest. Each bride will receive a complimentary goodie bag.



Please call 260-482-1250 today to reserve your spot as space is limited. Hope to see you there!

August 14, 2008

Bridal Academy August

The Monogram Shoppe

6410 West Jefferson

Registration 6:45pm

Bridal Academy 7pm-8pm

Q&A and light refreshments 8pm

Topics for this August session will feature: “Bridesmaids ... Your Special Friends”

*Showers and Bachelorette Parties

*How to Have Happy Bridesmaids

*Bridesmaid's Responsibilities

*Unique Bridesmaids Bouquets

Sara Keltsch returns from seminar

Sara Keltsch, owner of The Monogram Shoppe was a seminar speaker at the July Atlanta Gift Show. She along with three other gift shop owners were panelists at a seminar about promotions, merchandising and other hints for gift shop owners on Friday, July 11th. The seminar was sponsored by the Larry Lucas Showroom at the Altlanta Apparel Mart. The hour long seminar was a question and answer time to learn what promotions and ideas work best. Keltsch spoke about the Bridal Academy and how joining with other like businesses can help promote education for the brides to be.

Welcome back Sara.

Make a list and check it twice...

A couple of weeks before your wedding take a couple of minutes to put an email together for your wedding professionals. “Why” you might ask in the midst of all the wedding chaos? An email ahead of time that shows your wedding timeline gives you the opportunity to touch base and make sure all the players are on the same page.

As an example, if you change your reception start time from 7pm to 6pm and only confirm that with the venue, your band or DJ may be scampering around to get set up by your new start time. You might be hitching a ride with friends if you forget to let the limo or trolley know your modification. And your baker may be setting up your beautiful sugar confection while your guests are enjoying cocktails.

Give yourself peace of mind and ask your wedding vendors to reply to your timeline email so that you know they have received the schedule. If you do not hear back from them in 48 to 72 hours, make a phone call. This will save you a world of headache and heartaches right before your wedding. You need calm and serenity right before you get married, not a frantic search on the internet and all night on the phone trying to find a replacement for something/one you thought were already set in stone.

Happy Planning

Dawn Quick returns from 2 Be Bride Convention

Dawn Quick (owner of the Wedding Place) just returned from Nashville, TN. 2 Be Bride unveiled the new 2009 collection of breathtaking bridal gowns.

The Wedding Place is one of the only exclusive shops in Indiana to carry the 2 Be Bride collection. 2009 brides will find many fashion forward dress options for their special day.

Dawn talked to Terri (one of the 2 Be Bride) designers about where she finds inspiration for the gown designs. Terri finds inspiration “everywhere” so each one of these dresses will be original…not just another dress on the rack. Brides will be able to find beautiful dresses right here in Fort Wayne.

"Sweetheart Table"

A “Sweetheart Table” is a wonderful way for your and your new husband to share some time as a couple in a dedicated “space” at the reception. This table is a focal point where you can enjoy your meal together and reflect on the moments of the day. Guests will be able to focus on the two of you during dinner and still give you a bit of privacy.

As you see with Lisa and Jon’s table, the color and décor flows with the other tables and can be decorated with even a more elegant feel for the event.

Fall 2008 Sessions Announced

Bridal Academy is for newly engaged brides-to-be as well as upcoming brides who are working on their wedding planning. Bridal Academy presenters are all experienced wedding professionals from the Fort Wayne area. They feel passionately about helping brides make their wedding a truly splendid experience.

Each bride is encouraged to bring one guest with them to share in the learning experience. Please call 260-482-1250 today to reserve your spot as space is limited. Hope to see you there!

Thursday, August 14, 2008
The Monogram Shoppe
6410 West Jefferson
Registration 6:45pm
Bridal Academy 7pm-8pm
Q&A and light refreshments 8pm

Topics for this August session will feature:
Bridesmaids ... Your Special Friends
*Showers and Bachelorette Parties
*How to Have Happy Bridesmaids
*Bridesmaid's Responsibilities
*Unique Bridesmaids Bouquets

Thursday, September 25, 2008
The Wedding Place
4618 Speedway Drive
Registration 6:45pm
Bridal Academy 7pm-8pm
Q&A and light refreshments 8pm

Topics for September session will help you:
Getting Started
*Wedding Themes
*The ABC's of Choosing Entertainment
*Invitations ~ They set the Tone

Thursday, October 23, 2008
The Wedding Place
4618 Speedway Drive
Registration 6:45pm
Bridal Academy 7pm-8pm
Q&A and light refreshments 8pm

Topics for this October session will assist you with:
Pampering and Preparation
*How to Shop for your Wedding Gown
*Gifts for your Special People
*Spa Style Pampering
*How to Determine what's Important to You!

Thursday, November 20, 2008
The Monogram Shoppe
6410 West Jefferson
Registration 6:45pm
Bridal Academy 7pm-8pm
Q&A and light refreshments 8pm

The topics for this November session will aid you with:
Wrapping it All Up!
*Honeymoon Tips
*Thank You Notes
*Gown Storage and Preservation
*Great Closers for an Awesome Reception