Lusty Garden Color Scheme Bouquet

Like you, we’ve been thinking a lot about weddings lately and not just because everyone we know seems to be tying the knot.

Weddings are important to us, personally and as a business.

At the Ambridge Event Center, we see a lot of wedding, especially in our Rose Ballroom. For a wedding that stands out from the white, cream and black crowd, consider incorporating color. We came across Colourlovers.com this afternoon and they have a great article, What Hue Are You?, that talks about choosing a wedding flower color scheme.

We love the freshness of this Lusty Garden color scheme: something about that crisp apple green against red that sets our heart a flutter.

Peacock feather flower

A wedding trend we love is birdcage veils. They’re modern with a glamorous retro twist. And if that wasn’t enough, they allow you to fully see your groom and guests on your special day! We especially adore these created by Dorene Vandermeer, owner of Unveiled Bridal.

Feathers, beads, crystals and even antique buttons are combined with lace or netting to create a veil that reflects the personality of your wedding. We can’t decide which we like better, this traditional flower inspired veil or this vibrant, bohemian one!

quinceanera planning

Your quinceanera is more than just a ceremony; it is a chance for you to express who you are and the woman you are becoming.

While some elements of a quince are nearly universal, including the misa de accion de gracias (Thanksgiving mass) and the naje (journey) or fiesta (birthday bash), how you combine and express those traditions and make them yours is up to you.

While planning your quince may seem overwhelming at first, Alan Peters, the owner of the Ambridge Event Center in Portland, Oregon, notes that a good event planning team can help you and your family streamline the process.

First, will your quince have a theme? Your theme can be anything from the latest trend, say gothic romance novels to a favorite animal or childhood fantasy. Popular themes include butterflies, princess, Victorian tea parties, seasonal and heritage parties such as Christmas, mariachi and Brazilian dance are also popular.

Even without a theme your color scheme will influence everything from the dresses you and your damas wear to your decorations and cake. Bold colors such as fushia, lime and canary are popular this year but your choice of colors is as individual as you. The sunny yellow your friend likes may not fit your personality or style. Peters recommends that you ask, “what do I like?”

Peters also likes to remind his clients that their quince is an opportunity to celebrate family and community. When planning your quince, ask yourself “who made sacrifices so I could celebrate today?” “Your guest list should include family, friends, padrims (godparents) and community members who have made a difference in your life and your future. Look for ways to recognize and honor the contributions they have made during your ceremony or party,” says Peters.

Once the guest list is complete, you’ll need a location. “Find someone who recognizes how important your quinceanera is to you, your family and your community,” says Peters. Do they offer beautiful rooms and dance floors in a wide range of sizes to ensure that your festejada, damas and chambelans have plenty of space to enjoy themselves? Will their chef help you create the perfect menu of traditional and modern dishes, and those home cooked favorites that your quinceanera would be incomplete without?”

According to Peters, with a little help and planning “your quinceanera will be a reflection of you, your family and tradition. Have fun, enjoy the party.”