Flowers 101

November 28th, 2007

FlowersSo, I am a little tired of researching halls so I started to check out the fun stuff, such as flowers and center pieces! I know, not really top priority at this point in my engagement but I needed a break. I wasn’t really sure where to start with flowers so my co-worker/friend Katie (who is also planning a Cincinnati wedding) suggested the following list to consider when selecting flowers.

Bridal bouquet
Attendants bouquets
Junior bridesmaid bouquet
Flower girl rose petals
Mothers
Grooms boutonnier
Groomsmen boutonniere
Fathers
Grandparents
Grandmothers
Alter arrangement
Centerpieces at reception
Toss bouquet
Flower delivery at church and reception

However, keep in mind that flowers vary in quality and price by location and season. Check out which flowers are in season during the month of your wedding to save a few bucks. For you budget brides, the best prices thus far have been Adam’s Floral Design and Lutz Flower Haus, however, if you prefer a little more pizazz, check out Adrian Durban. To me, a flower is a flower but to some brides, it is their world.

Big City Wedding

November 26th, 2007

If you are going to have a Cincinnati wedding, why not do it right with a downtown reception! I have been scoping out a few places and thus far, The Phoenix appears to have the best prices and amenities for a downtown affair. They offer both an inclusive wedding package along customized menu options to fit a reception of any size. Thus far they have been wonderful to work with and have responded promptly. What I really liked about The Phoenix is that we can have up to 456 guests in the Grand Ballroom, which is atypical for a downtown reception hall. They are also close to the Garfield Suites hotel which offers overnight accommodations for my out of town guests. I like the thought of a downtown reception because it is convenient and provide entertainment opportunities for Friday and Sunday.

If you have another downtown facility to recommend that can accommodate at least 300 people, please leave a comment below.

The Phoenix

Outdoor flair with the French House

November 21st, 2007

French Hall Outside

One of my best friends held her reception at the French House in Amberly Village and I absolutely fell in love with location because I have always wanted an outdoor reception. The scenery is absolutely stunning! However, there is a downside. The rental fees are a little interesting to say the least. French House is located in French Park, which is one the Cincinnati Historic Property’s location. It is standard to include a fee for each and every chair/table, along with a set up and take down fee per chair/table. However, my friend wanted to invite over 450 guests and this was going to be absolutely cost prohibitive. Instead, she hosted a “Southern Style” wedding and made it more of cocktail party with elegant food stations and high top tables for drinks. It was amazing and so unique, yet so perfect for the location. So, if you are considering the French House, I would recommend forgoing the traditional sit down dinner and opt for party that encourages conversation and dancing!

Break Tradition?

November 20th, 2007

The recent challenge we are facing is the physical location of the wedding. Traditionally, weddings are held in the brides home town, but what do you do if over 75% of the guest are from the Groom’s hometown (which is where we currently reside). It’s been a logistical nightmare trying to find the best option for both sets of families and friends. Minster weddings are more about the extended reception, partying and dancing from 8 until midnight, whereas Cincinnati weddings focus more on the banquet dinner and elegant evening decor. I’m torn on what I want and how we’ll be able to integrate both traditions to make it “our” special day.

New “Westside” banquet hall

November 19th, 2007

Over the weekend, I learned about a new banquet hall at Aston Oaks golf course. It has beautiful scenery and seats up to 300 people. I also heard it would also make a fabulous rehearsal dinner location. Visit the The Oak Leaf website.

Aston Oaks 1

Aston Oaks “The Oak Leaf”

Bar

Inside Aston Oaks

We’re Engaged!

November 14th, 2007

Us

Alex and I are happy to announce our engagement. The big day will be in about a year.

Let the count down begin.