Preserving The Pretty

Being that Valentine's Day is upon us, I thought I would share some of my favorite beauty finds to get you prepared for the biggest date night of the year. One of the things I like most about going out on a date, is the getting ready. Selecting the perfect bath products, lipstick and perfume (to say nothing of the shoes)all serve to get me in the correct headspace for spending time with that special someone.

Laura Mercier makes the most divine bath products. This chocolate truffle honey bath and body cream are the perfect choice for V-day. I am so in love with that little dipper!

Bath truffles have always been a favorite of mine. Earthworks' African Jasmine are sure to delight the senses. Made with cocoa and shea butters your skin will be silky to the touch.

No one knows fragrance like Jo Malone knows fragrance! Her Red Roses bath oil is pure relaxation in a bottle. It's a heavenly blend of 7 different roses, feminine and lovely without being overpowering.

Starting to notice a trend? I am such a bath person!! If only the water could stay hot for hours.

Keisha Whitaker, the ultra-chic wife of Oscar winner Forest Whitaker and creator of the fabulous Kissable Couture lip gloss line, has come out with a limited edition range of shades designed especially for Valentine's Day. Be sure to get yours while you can!

Now, that you've taken a moment to soak in the tub and are perfectly scented with a very pretty pout, a sexy manicure is a must. Don't you just love a precise red nail. So very glamourous!!

If you're planning on staying in (lucky girl), the heavenly scent of Diptyque candles will certainly set the mood. Tuberose is my absolute top pick.

Now all you need is a chilled bottle of bubbly and you've set the stage for the beginning of a perfect evening. No thanks necessary, it was my pleasure!

I've Got A Love Jones

Love Jones is one of my all-time favorite movies, so when I received a dvd from photographer Faith Jones, whose company shares the same name, I was instantly intrigued. I love Faith's creative perspective and thought she'd be perfect for my gold list. Be sure visit her site to see more of Faith's work.
I love the juxposition of color and b&w.
Please tell our readers a bit of your background and how you started as a photographer.
I fell in love with art at an early age and constantly photographed friends and family. Being a part of the yearbook staff in high school fueled my love for taking pictures and my first class in college sealed the deal!

What should couples look for in a wedding photographer?
First and foremost, a great portfolio! Also, look for a photographer that you connect with. When you are comfortable with your photographer your photographs are more natural and he/she is able to capture you at your best!
Such a fun and unexpected shot!!
What is the style difference between traditional photography and photojournalism?
Traditional photography consists of more posed photographs that capture the people and events that take place. Photojournalistic photos tend to tell more of a story and focus on the detail and emotion of the day or moment. The photographer is able to use more artistic expression while the client receives images that will bring back the emotion of the day for years to come.
So romantic!
How can couples maximize their outdoor photos?
Many couples make the mistake of wearing loud patterns and colors during photo shoots. Whether outdoors, or indoors, neutral colors and little to no pattern help bring the focus to you, rather than your clothes. Choose a place that reflects you and your significant other, this will help you to relax as well as bring back memories and emotions that can be captured in your shoot.
Isn't she adorable?!
What are some of your tips to help couples capture the emotion of their wedding day?
It is important to relax and just enjoy your day. Forget about the camera (and even the guests sometime) and take time to reflect on the journey you are embarking upon. Have fun with your photographer and try things that are out of the box (jumping, running, etc.). Be open to the photographer’s suggestions and you’ll find yourself with unique and creative images to frame or display in an album.
I love the action shots! Looks like everyone is having a blast.
How soon should couples being looking for your services? What questions should they ask?
Couples should usually try to book their photographer 6-8 months in advance. On a day as important as your wedding you don’t want to have to settle for a photographer you aren’t 110% satisfied with and you DEFINITELY do not want to be without a photographer at all!
Important questions to ask your photographer are:
1. What package options do you have that will work within my budget? Can we work to create something that will work for us?
2. What additional options are offered (i.e. albums, thank you cards, dvds, etc.)
3. When will we receive the photographs and how long do you keep them for ordering?

Definitely Not Your Grandmother's Waltz

I usually don't post on the weekend, but I had to share this with everyone. While reading one of my fav blogs, Brooklyn Bride, I came across a couple who took their first dance to a whole new level. Looks like a good time was had by all!! Enjoy:)

*more info here

Friday Cheers

What better way to cap off the work week than with a few cocktails? In keeping with our Valentine's Day theme, I thought I'd feature a few libations to get you in the mood for love. CocktailTimes.com is one of my favorite sites for finding great drinks to use at parties and receptions. By tweaking an ingredient or two, you can turn a classic recipe into a signature cocktail your guests will enjoy. Salud!

Red Hot Martini

Besame (my fave!)

XOXOXO

Pink Passion

Recipes and pictures courtesy of Cocktail Times

Two Great Things That Taste Great Together

No, I'm not talking about Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. Something a bit more interesting...a wine and chocolate tasting party for Valentine's Day. After spending some quality time with your betrothed, open your doors and welcome your favorite couples for a special treat.

I guarantee this party will be lots of fun and super easy to put together. Set up a table with various types of chocolates: white, milk and dark. For an extra special touch, whip up a batch of homemade truffles. Trust me ladies, it's much easier than you think. (I'll put the recipe at the end of the post.)

Now to put a little "spirit" in the evening: the wines. Try pairing the white and milk chocolates with champagne, California sparkling and Prosecco wines. Darker, rich candy can handle more robust flavors. Be sure to partner them with merlots and earthy cabernets.

Now for the decor. Nothing shows off chocolate like deep reds. Start with lots of red roses. I'm sure you'll love showing off the blooms from your favorite valentine. Take stemless wine glasses (Target has some great choices) and trim your roses to about 4-5 inches so the blossom clears the rim of the glass by about an inch or so. Six flowers fill one glass nicely. Next, you'll need lots of votive candles. Arrange the flowers and candles amongst the room as well as the tables holding the chocolates and wines. Be sure to label the your goodies so guests know exactly what they're tasting.

And for my promised truffle recipe:
16 oz of european dark chocolate (at least 60% cacao), finely chopped
3/4 cup of heavy cream
Cocoa powder or confectioner's sugar
Depending on your taste buds, you can add vanilla, chili powder, Cointreau or Grand Marnier by the teaspoon. Just not all together!!

Put the chocolate in a glass bowl. Be sure not to use plastic or metal containers as they could impart a funny taste to the chocolate. Bring the cream to just a boil on the stove. Strain the liquid thru a sieve into the chocolate and stir slowly. The heat from the cream will melt the chocolate. Once it's melted, add your choice of flavoring. Stir thoroughly and chill for at least an hour. Tick, tock, tick, tock...Now that the chocolate has chilled, take a melon baller or small ice cream scoop (dipped into very hot water every now and then) and drop rounded balls onto a parchment or wax paper-lined cookie sheet.

Now, lightly dust your hands with the cocoa powder or sugar to prevent the truffles from sticking. Yes, your hands will get messy, but trust me, it's well worth it. Roll the chocolate in the cocoa or powdered sugar and place on a beautiful tray or bowl. Presto, super easy truffles that will rival Godiva any day.

Light the candles, uncork the wine, start the music (Sade's perfect for a night like this), and your ready for the fun to begin. Be sure to let me know how much fun you had!

The Suite Life

Ladies and Gentlemen, we are 9 (yes, 9) days away from one of my absolute favorite holidays...Valentine's Day. By now you should know I'm all about celebrating life's special moments and this day of love is no different. However, I'd like to show you how to celebrate it on a more intimate level than the usual cocktail party. Over the next few days, I'll give you some tips and tricks for setting the ideal mood for amore.

Being that Godiva is one of my favorite chocolatiers, as soon as I read this, I knew I had to post it. Godiva is upping the ante with this year's promotion. The company has created a suite made entirely of chocolate. We're talking art, furniture, even the fireplace! The lucky winner and a guest will get to spend a weekend in chocolate bliss. Want to be the lucky couple? All you have to do is buy a $23 box of chocolates. Good luck!




See more here

Be Sure To Get My Good Side

Remember a few months back I was asked by Virginia Bride Magazine to write a column on wedding planning tips and trends? I also needed a headshot as well. As much as I love photography books, having my picture taken is so not a favorite way to spend my day. But there was no getting around this, believe me, I tried. While trying to decide which photographer to work with on this important, albeit small project, I came across the work of Jamie Parker. I reached out to Jamie and quickly set up an appointment. I forewarned her how much I hated having my picture taken and my utter lack of comfort in front of the camera. Jamie assured me I'd be great and there was nothing to worry about. To say working with Jamie was a joy is a total understatement! Well, her and her lovely assistant Bear. She was able to put me completely at ease. When I decided to put together my Gold List, Jamie immediately came to mind. Jamie is both warm and gracious, a true artist and I'm sure you'll have as great of a time working with her as I did. Dearest Readers, let's give a warm welcome to Jamie of Jamie Parker Photography.

Please tell our readers a bit of your background and how you started as a photographer.
My real interest in photography started in college. I was actually a biology major and immediately switched my focus (no pun intended, haha) after taking my first photography class. I then went on to earn a degree in Photography and Digital Imaging. Since then, I have worked with many great photographers and learned a lot of hands on skills and real world training to supplement my degree. I have been working as a professional photographer since 2003 and love it!

What should couples look for in a wedding photographer?
Couples need to make sure they feel comfortable with the person they choose to photograph their wedding. Meet with the individual (see if you connect or clash) and look at samples of their work to make sure their style matches your taste. Also, personality is very important. The photographer should be friendly and people oriented.

What is the style difference between traditional photography and
photojournalism?Traditional wedding photography only captures the ceremony and the reception, and includes a lot more posed images. I refer to the older, traditional way of photographing weddings as "cookie cutter". They all look the same. Photojournalism creates photos that tell the unique story of your wedding day from start to finish. It is about the people and the details of the wedding.

How can couples maximize their outdoor photos?
Outdoor photos do depend on the weather of course, but also the tastes of the couple and the photographer. Let your photographer know ahead of time your preference for outdoor photography. I know I personally like to do as much outside as I can. Formals are great outdoors, and I also like to spend some time creating romantic photos of the couple outside.

What are some of your tips to help couples capture the emotion of their wedding day?
Well, the number one priority of a wedding photographer (especially a photojournalist) is to capture the emotion of the wedding day. The couple needs to relax and enjoy themselves. You have met with your photographer and have communicated all of your wishes prior to your special day. So now that you have done your homework, sit back and relax.

I always tell people, wedding photography is an investment. After the cake has been eaten and the flowers have wilted, you will still have your wedding photographs to help you relive and cherish the memories of your wedding day.

Black and white shots are so romantic!

Love, love, love the detail of these floral shots!!