Wednesday, February 29, 2012

The Leap on Leap Year/Leap Day Traditions!


 Leap Year Madness!
History reveals new odd traditions every day, and over the years, marriage proposals have not been not immune to the strangeness. Rules of courtship are quite different these days (and much less strict), but long ago women who were hoping to marry had to wait for their beaus to propose. They were not "allowed" to pop the question themselves, except on one day: leap year (February 29th) which occurs every four years. The tradition dates back hundreds of years to when the leap year was not recognized by English law; the day was simply "leapt over" and ignored. Since the day had no legal status, formal traditions did not apply. Consequently, women who were not content to wait for a proposal took advantage of this anomaly and popped the question themselves!
It was also thought that since leap year corrected the discrepancy between the calendar year (365 days) and the time it takes for the earth to complete one orbit of the sun (365 days and 6 hours), it was an opportunity for women to correct a tradition that was one-sided and unfair.
The idea spread around the world and soon there were many Leap Year Balls and Leap Year Dances. Some were being held so the women could ask the man to dance. And some were specifically for the woman to ask for a man's hand in marriage.
Leap Day and its festivities, are often mistaken for Sadie Hawkins Day, which is actually in November. The only similarity between the two days is that it's a day when the woman has the opportunity to do the asking. February 29 is not Sadie Hawkins Day, it is Leap Year Day, or simply, Leap Day.
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, there were many postcards depicting women asking, even begging, the man to marry her. The postcard below is a perfect example of the woman asking for his hand. She has gone straight to the man's father to ask him.
In Britain and Ireland, it is a tradition that women may propose marriage only on leap years. While it has been claimed that the tradition was initiated by Saint Patrick or Brigid of Kildare in 5th centuryIreland, this is dubious, as the tradition has not been attested to before the 19th century. Supposedly, a 1288 law by Queen Margaret of Scotland (then age five and living in Norway), required that fines be levied if a marriage proposal was refused by the man; compensation was deemed to be a pair of leather gloves, a single rose, £1 and a kiss. In some places the tradition was tightened to restricting female proposals to the modern leap day, February 29, or to the medieval leap day, February 24.
  • In Denmark, the tradition is that women may propose on the  leap day, February 29, and that refusal must be compensated with 12 pairs of gloves.
  • In Finland, the tradition is that if a man refuses a woman's proposal on leap day, he should buy her the fabrics for a skirt.
  • In Greece, marriage in a leap year is considered unlucky. One in five engaged couples in Greece will plan to avoid getting married in a leap year.


Well, here in the early part of the second millennium, it is more of a romantic idea than law. There are many people wanting to ask, or even get married in a Leap Year. Either way a proposal is one of the ultimate professions of love! When the proposal is made, it doesn’t matter who asks.  (But here's a shout-out to the ladies who decide to do it!) 

Happy Leap Day!
xoxo

Katherine

Wedding Etiquette Trivia

Wedding Etiquette Trivia: Do You Know the Rules?

Do you know how many months you have to send out those thank-you notes after your Big Day? What about the rules on where guests should send their too-big-for-the-day-of wedding gifts? Navigating the wedding world can be tricky -- so The Huffington Post turned to etiquette expert Peggy Post, great-granddaughter-in-law of famed etiquette guru Emily Post, to guide us through the official dos and don'ts for the Big Day. I will post the answers in a few days but for now enjoy the quiz! 

QUESTION: On which lapel should the groom and groomsmen wear their boutonnieres?



A) All should wear the boutonniere on the left
B) All should wear the boutonniere on the right
C) Either side -- but the groomsmen must wear the boutonniere on the opposite side of the groom
D) Both



QUESTION: Traditionally, who holds the knife when cutting the wedding cake?


A) The groom 
B) The bride 
C) Both the bride and groom; the bride's hands go under the groom's. 
D) Both the bride and groom; the groom's hands go under the bride's.

QUESTION: How long should you allow for the printing of formal invitations


A) 1-2 weeks 
B) 3-5 weeks 
C) 6-8 weeks 
D) 9-12 weeks

QUESTION: What is the ideal lag time between the ceremony and reception?


A) 10 minutes 
B) 30 minutes 
C) 60 minutes 
D) 90 minutes

QUESTION: When should you have your registries completed by?


A) By the time you have sent out your Save The Dates 
B) One month before the the wedding 
C) By the time you have sent out your invitations 
D) Two weeks before the wedding

QUESTION: What is the appropriate way to give the bride and groom their gifts?


A)They should be brought to the wedding reception 
B) They should be brought to the wedding ceremony 
C) They should be given to the bride and groom at the receiving line 
D) They should be sent to the couple's address

QUESTION: Who stands and who sits during the wedding toasts?


A) Everyone should stand except for the bride and groom 
B) Everyone should stand except for the bridal party 
C) Only the bridal party and the speaker should stand 
D) Only the speaker and the bride and groom should stand

QUESTION: When should you mail out your invitations?


A) As soon as your invitations are printed 
B) 3-4 weeks before the wedding date 
C) 6-8 weeks before the wedding date 
D) 9-12 weeks before the wedding date

QUESTION: How long do you have to write and send thank-you notes?


A) Within 3 weeks of the ceremony 
B) Within 3 months of the ceremony 
C) Within 6 months of the ceremony 
D) Within 9 months of the ceremony

Answers to come soon!

xoxo

Katherine







Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Groom's Survival Kit


Wedding planning is often very much associated with the bride. It isn't very often that the groom gets as much attention! This little Survival Guide Kit is just a simple reminder that its the groom's big day too.

For all of the Paisley grooms, thank you for being such amazing men to your ladies! And to the Paisley brides, remember that this is the man who you chose to spend your life with! He's special too. Remind him with this little kit of love!



xoxo

Katherine


Wednesday, February 22, 2012

5 Wedding Trends of 2012


5  Creative Wedding Trends for 2012

If you are engaged, or are soon to be so, take a moment to imagine that it’s your wedding day. What kind of dress are you wearing? Does the overall look and feel of your wedding reflect your individual style? When it comes to wedding design, the sky really is the limit. But with so many options, it can be difficult to decide what works best for you. To inspire you, we spoke with a few wedding vendors in the Fairfield County area about some creative ideas that are quickly becoming top 2012 trends. You may even want to integrate them into your own wedding!


1. Taking a minimalist approach. 

One trend that we’re seeing this year is a minimalist approach to wedding design. Simple elegance and subtle hues like peach, pale pink, and lilac are very "in" this season.


2. Menus with a touch of flair. 

I recently read a 2012 Catersource trends survey that detailed an interest in serving up dishes with an entertaining twist. The article described how do-it-yourself food stations that allow guests to participate in the meal are becoming very popular. Entertaining food stations with lights, ice sculptures, and more can make for a creatively entertaining dinner.

3. Integrating super foods into the menu. 

Incorporating super foods such as honey, pomegranate, spinach, and quinoa into wedding menus is another creative 2012 trend for weddings. Such ingredients are full of antioxidants and other nutrients that will leave your guests feeling satisfied and refreshed while providing a unique taste.

4. Watercolor designs. 

One of The Knot’s top 10 wedding trends of 2012 is watercolor designs on invitations, table designs, and more. Watercolors add a fresh, vibrant, and classy touch to any wedding. Click here to read about more top 2012 wedding trends from The Knot.


5. Royal wedding-inspired dresses. 

One trend that emerged from the 2011 royal wedding is a wedding dress look centered on classy lace. Long sleeves and lace will be a trend to watch, along with off-the-shoulders sleeves made of delicate lace.


If you are planning a wedding and would like more information on how Paisley Events can help you create a memorable event, we encourage you to contact a Paisley Planner at 757.408.0522 or katherine@eventspaisley.com.

Happy trending!
xoxo
Katherine

Sunday, February 19, 2012

Wedding Steps Bridal Show!

Wedding Steps Bridal Show 
at
The Matrix Conference Center in Danbury CT

Today Paisley Events joined 35 other vendors at the magnificent Matrix Conference Center in Danbury, CT to participate in the Wedding Steps Bridal Show. The brides were incredible! I have been to a few shows before, and this was by far one of the most well organized and smoothly run shows. 

Every vendor participated in a bridal raffle by donating an item worth $50+ to the "bin." To be considered for a prize, the brides had to circulate the exhibitors room and receive signatures from each vendor. Incidentally, this was an awesome way to regulate foot traffic to each vendor!

The girls from Occasions put on a walking fashion show, displaying bridal gowns, flower girl dresses, bridesmaid dresses, and mother of the bride dresses. I love this idea! Instead of taking attention from the vendors, the girls were parading the entire show. Not only does it allow the brides to see how the dress moves, but it's all up close! What better way to judge a dress than to be able to step up and ask the model what it's like?

The entertainment was given by one performer. He sang a few numbers and was topped of by an explosion of color and sparklers going off on every side of him for his finale! It was great! The matrix had also set up tours of their facility for interested brides, and designed their ballroom for both a ceremony and a reception. This gave brides information on how the venue would appear if they were to book their wedding date. 

Paisley Events donated a "Day Of Coordination" Gift Certificate to the "bin" and we also raffled one "Day Of" at the table. We received our floral centerpiece from Main Street Floral in Ridgefield. They were also a vendor at the show. 

Paisley Events Exhibitor Booth with hanging banner.

The Paisley Events Banner, before it fell off the wall!

Floral Centerpeice by Main Street Floral.

Paisley Events Booth before the show!

We look forward to seeing you at the Wedding Steps Bridal Show at The Waterview in Monroe, CT on Sunday March 4th!

xoxo

Katherine

Saturday, February 18, 2012

Introducing.....


Paisley Events Proudly Presents


The
“Bride-to-be”
Academy


Date: Thursday May 31st, 2012

Time: 7:00pm-8:30pm

Place: The Lounsbury House of Ridgefield


Join Paisley Events lead consultant, Katherine Jacox for 90 minutes of wedding tips and advice. Learn budgeting, vendor selection, and much much more. Coffee, tea, and snacks will be provided.


Space is Limited! Sign Up Today!


Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Happy Valentine's Day


This week, I am spending some good quality time with the Ogilvies in Vail, Colorado. Since I as away from home I thought maybe I'd be able to avoid the whole "alone on V-Day" thing, but I was completely wrong. 

Silly me!

What could be more romantic than snow covered mountains, almost hourly flurries, and heart shaped ice sculptures here and there throughout Vail Village?


The girls and I took a walk and saw the sweetest elderly couple holding hands. The girls draw a lot of attention, because they are just so adorable, and we ended up talking to the couple. The gentleman, Russell, had proposed to his wife, Georgia, 75 years ago to the date. It was unbelievably sweet seeing love like that stand the test of time. 

The surprises for the day were far from over. The resort that we are staying at has a great desk staff. As I was taking the girls back in for lunch, we ran into our concierge. She knew I was in the industry and offered to let me take a peek at a suite that they had just finished preparing for a guy who is planning on proposing this evening over dinner. After I was on my time off, I ventured down to the room. I was blown away. The room had down-lighting with pinks and purples. The hotel was nice enough to provide complimentary champagne, and chocolate covered strawberries. The heart of rose petals was icing on the cake. It was a perfect reminder of just how special and intimate love is....especially when there are chocolate- covered strawberries involved!




Happy Valentine's Day Everyone!

xoxo
Katherine

Monday, February 13, 2012

Wedding Dress Styles: Part V


The Mermaid Dress
The mermaid silhouette contours to the body from the chest to the knee, then flares out to the hem. This is a very sexy look that highlights the curves of a woman’s body. For this reason, you must be confident and comfortable in your skin to pull off this dramatic style.


Structure
The mermaid style can support just about all necklines and sleeve lengths to reveal or cover as much skin as you desire. Since this dress is captivating by design, a high neck and long sleeves will still create an alluring look without being too sexy. If you want to show off your skin, you can opt for a strapless neckline, or a halter with a plunging v-neck to accentuate your seductive side. The look of the mermaid dress is influenced by the various skirt styles available. The skirt can flare out above the knee, at the knee, or below the knee for slightly different silhouettes. The shape of the skirt and the hem can also affect how the dress looks. A round skirt provides volume all the way around the lower part of the bride, whereas a trumpet flare creates volume that flows out behind the bride. There is also a flamenco flare that gathers the lower part of the dress in the front for a Spanish feel.


Gown Enhancers:
A big go-to currently for a special flare to the mermaid gown is poof! Enlarged fabric flowers, layers upon layers of taffeta, out of this world layering... every one defines the volume at the flare of the gown. The rest of the dress can be as dramatic or as simple as you choose. Most brides like to keep the top of the gown simple and let her curves and the dress' flare do the work for her.


Fabrics:
The mermaid dress can either be slinky or highly constructed, depending on the fabric it is made from. If you want a slip style dress that lightly hugs the curves of your body, light-weight silks and satin are the best choices. Stiff fabrics, however, will draw attention to the construction and dramatic shape of the dress. Either way, the mermaid style evokes images of sophistication and sex-appeal, whether it is worn at a casual beach wedding, or a formal evening affair.



Body Types: The mermaid cut is not for everyone. This daring design is best worn by slender figures, both short and tall. Since the mermaid dress is made to hug the body and show every curve, it is not well suited for those brides with full figures. However, if you are on the voluptuous side and want to accentuate your curves, this is the perfect dress for you. The most important thing to keep in mind when considering a mermaid style dress is whether or not you will feel comfortable wearing it on your big day. You may have a flawless figure perfect for this type of dress, but if you do not feel confident in it, it is not worth choosing.


Caution!: Clingy slip dress such as the mermaid often reveal embarrassing underwear lines. These lines not only reveal what you are wearing under the dress, but also take away from the elegance of your overall look. It is important to keep this in mind when considering a tight fitting or body hugging dress since it may restrict what items you are actually able to wear underneath the dress. The last thing a bride needs on her big day is an underwear mistake!






I hope you have all enjoyed the ins and outs of wedding dress styles! Check back later as we delve into the specifications for our sexy men!


xoxo

Katherine

Sunday, February 12, 2012

Wedding Dress Styles: Part IV


The Ball Gown Dress

Every girl at one point or another has dreamed of the "fairy tale wedding". The handsome prince (or princess!) charming, the singing forest creatures, and of course, the gorgeous full length ball gown dress. The ball gown style is perfect for those brides envisioning a fairy tale wedding. This silhouette pairs a fitted bodice with a full skirt that can either be one piece or separates. The ball gown is most appropriate for large, traditional weddings where the dress will be consistent with the formality of the event.

Structure:
Much like the A-line dress, the ball gown can support many different necklines and sleeve lengths. Various combinations of these elements create many different looks for many different occasions. If you are having a very formal or traditional wedding where you are expected to be covered, choosing a ball gown with a portrait neck and long sleeves will keep you covered but also show your femininity. You can achieve a dramatic effect by choosing a strapless ball gown and pairing it with opera length gloves. If you want a simple yet elegant look, you can go with a sleeveless, scooped neck bodice that flows all the way to the ground.


Fabrics:
The ball gown can showcase a number of fabric choices that highlight different aspects of the dress. The use of satin or a chiffon overlay creates a very elegant and traditional silhouette. Intricate beading or lace work on the bodice, paired with a simple satin skirt will draw attention to the upper body. Light and fluffy layers on the skirt will help to create a floating effect. The volume of the ball gown can be achieved in a number of ways.  The skirt may require a petticoat or crinoline to support its structure. Layering fabric, such as organza, taffeta, or tulle, can also create this effect.



Gown Enhancements: 
I love the idea of a long train. They are the perfect addition to this specific style of dress.  Trains work perfectly with the ball gown since the substantial structure of the skirt can balance the weight of a train. Whether you want the long theatrical presence of a cathedral length train or the subdued look of a brush length train, the ball gown can accommodate this traditional feature.



Body Types:
While this style can accommodate most body types, the ball gown is ideal for slender or pear-shaped figures as the full skirt helps to accentuate the waist and hide the lower body. If you have a large bust, this style will help to create the hourglass look since it emphasizes the waistline due to the fitted bodice and natural or dropped waist.







Warning! The volume of the ball gown can create false and unwanted illusions. Be careful if you are on the shorter side since you may not have the height to balance the size of the skirt. Also, instead of complimenting the figure of a full-breasted bride, the skirt could actually cause her to look larger. Keep these factors in mind when considering a ball gown, and remember that an A-line or princess cut dress can be more flattering while still providing the desired effect.



xoxo 

Katherine

Friday, February 10, 2012

Wedding Dress Styles: Part III

The Column Dress

The column dress has a narrow shape that flows straight down from the neckline to the hem. This dress, also referred to as a sheath, tends to hug the body and show any and all curves you may have. The column is appropriate for all types of weddings, especially causal occasions on the beach, or intimate evening events at a banquet hall.

Structure: 

The column style is simplistic, but there are many ways to customize the overall appearance of the dress. Mixing various necklines and sleeve lengths will create a range of different looks around the gown's basic cut. A strapless column dress will look sexy and elegant, while one with a bateau neck and long, bell sleeves will look more romantic and whimsical. The column silhouette works well with many different skirt lengths. Basically, the options are pretty much limitless!


Fabrics:

The other major factor in the construction of the column dress is the fabric. Simply changing the material choice for this style can take the same dress from a slinky slip dress to highly constructed dramatic statement. If you prefer a slip dress, you should look for fabrics that can flow easily over the contours of your body, like light silks and satin. Heavier fabrics that can maintain shape, like damask or peau de soie silk, will give the dress a defined contour that will withstand movement.


Gown Enhancers

Beading and lace sheaths are gorgeous additions to this style of dress. Because the style is so form fitting, the addition of design work gives it a little extra "umph".  Women with more boxy figures that do not have natural curves may consider accenting the waistline with a separate bodice or sash to create the illusion of a defined waist.



Body Types

Similar to the mermaid style, the column dress is best worn by lean figures, both short and tall. The elongating nature of this design will help petite brides appear taller. However, the column dress does not allow much room for hiding problem areas, such as a larger lower body. It can conceal minor flaws if you opt for a constructed column that will stay in place, but the slip style will be unforgiving.






Be Warned: Body hugging designs such as the column dress can constrict your movement, including the ability to sit and dance as comfortably as you would wish on your big day.  If you want a highly-constructed column dress, you may consider one that has pleats or gathering in the back that will allow you to move more freely.



Happy dress hunting!

xoxo

Katherine