Branching Out

Welcome, Toya!

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When Allure first started, the idea of branching out into other states seemed like such a far off goal. Well today, that goal came into affect, much sooner than I thought it ever would. If you attended the Chattanooga Bridal Show, you may have met one of my assistants, Toya. Toya has been in the event planning field for several years but has always done her work in Ohio and the surrounding states. She came down to help both Allure and Michelle McKibben Photography run the booths, and I can speak for both companies when I say that she was a HUGE help!
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After long discussions, doing the numbers and everything else that goes into branching out, I can officially say that Allure now has a satellite office in Ohio with Toya Webb as the manager and head event coordinator. Toya is based out of Dayton but is able to service all of Ohio and the surrounding states.
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To reach Toya or the Ohio Allure Office, please call 937-554-6938.

Personalized Gifts

I love giving gifts, and giving a gift that is personalized is even better. I found these awesome paperweights from Claire Boyd and thought that I would share them with all of you brides who are frantically wondering what you could possibly get those who have just about everything. With these paperweights, you can insert a picture, a name or maybe even a "secret joke" that only you and your person you are giving the gift to will understand. Cute, cute, cute!

If any of you have seen something that is a great gift email me at natasha@allureeventconsulting.com and I will post it for the rest of the world to see!

Invite with Style

Once again, Better Homes and Gardens was the inspiration for this blog. I always love getting their weekly emails. You can sign up for them on their website at http://www.bhg.com/

These invitations are so cute and so unique. However, you are going to pay for being unique..these invitaitons can cost a pretty penny. But for those of you who have a big budget this might be a perfect start to a perfect wedding!

Creative Striped Tin
Send your invitation in style with a personalized striped tin. This out-of-the-ordinary invite is sure to impress your guests. Striped Green Tin; www.creativeblu.net;

An Organized Invite
Keep your response cards, directions, and invitations in order with this pocket fold invite from CreativeBlu. Red Floral Pocket Invite; www.creativeblu.net;

Engagement Help

Okay, this is for the men. With today's pressure on having the "perfect proposal" it can be overwhelming and sometimes even have an effect on when the engagement actually happens. Don't let the pressure get to you! You know your girlfriend and by now, you should know what would make her (and you) happy. All the engagement needs to be is perfect for the two of you. Now, with that said, do put some effort into it. No girl wants to have her boyfriend say, "Hey baby, why don't we get hitched" in between a sip of beer while he is watching a football game. Put some effort into this moment, it should be something that you all will treasure for the rest of your life. It doesn't have to be elaborate with fireworks and champagne, it could be as simple as popping the question while doing something that you both love, like having a picnic near a waterfall. There are tons of things that you could do to make that moment special, and if you can't think of anything that is when a professional can help you. That's right, a professional. At www.groomgroove.com they can help you plan the perfect proposal that fits you and your girlfriend. Groom Groove also has what the groom's roles are in the whole wedding process.

Good luck and congratulations!

Happy Valentine's Day!

I found this information on http://www.dailyolive.com/ . Really cute!

Chocolates and love letters are de rigueur come the 14th of February - the trick is finding the right chocolates, and the right words for those sweet nothings. Well, look no further. The Love Letter Collection from Wiseman House Chocolates has the requisite delectable chocolates: Wild Woman, Love Potion, Passion, and First Kiss, AND a sweet love letter originally written in 1895 from Adeline to Rufus (her betrothed). $38 includes the chocolates, the letter and a beautiful pink box with matching cocoa brown bow.

If you want to break the bank (and raise the bar for future Valentine's Day gifts) splurge on "The Perfect Evening" which includes a cozy chocolate brown bathrobe, jazz music from Chris Botti, a Cocoa Fleur candle AND the aforementioned Love Letter Collection of chocolates and already-written-for-you love letter. $175.

Final Word: For those who like chocolate and sweet nothings, this is a good bet.

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What a creative idea from www.ouroneheart.com!

I hope that your Valentine's Day is full of love!

Krystal Photoshoot!

I don't know if you all know, but me and my co-host (I co-host a TV show for the CW every week) were in a Krystal commerical this past winter. The commercial was so much fun, but the photoshoot was what we loved the most! We had all kinds of Krystal props (notice the cornpups in my hand!) The company has said they will be posting the pictures so as soon as they do I will let you all know about it. Keep your eyes open for Misty and I to be on Krystal billboards, cups, etc.!!!

Valentines!

Here are just a few ideas for the most romantic day of the year!



The bedroom is not the only place that should be spiced up for V-day. Take advantage of this holiday and see it as an opportunity to be creative in the dining room as well. This cute picture above has two pink table runners crisscrossed over each other to add color to the table. For the floral centerpiece, fill a tray with glass votive holders, then place water and a single rose in each. Snip each rose so that the blooms rest on the top edge of the glass. For a special treat, pick out paper with vibrant colors that match the rest of your decor. Roll from one corner to the next, stick the paper in a tall champagne glass and add your favorite candy!

What cute napkin ties! This goes well with a Valentines or Summer theme!

Homemade cards are not just for children. These cards are so simple to do and all you need is cardstock (red or pink!), pens and maybe a stamp or two. These little cards are the perfect size to slip into your honey's lunchbag.

Cute, cute, cute! I have always done a heart-shaped cake, but will be going with these cute cupcakes this year! So simple: start out with strawberry cake mix and red or white cupcake liners. After the cupcakes are done baking, take a heart-shaped cookie, lay it on top of the cupcake and sprinkle powdered sugar over the top of the cupcake. Remove the cookie carefully and lay it aside. Take either brown, white or pink ribbon and tie it around the cupcake. So easy!

This is a great idea for sharing a Valentine's treat with others. Make a batch and take them to your favorite businesses that are in your area (your bank, post office, hair salon). What a great way to network and enjoy the holiday!

Thanks to Better Homes and Gardens for the pictures!

Congratulations!

Congratulations to Michelle McKibben Photography for becoming a Destination Photographer! With years of experience, Michelle McKibben Photography has mastered the art of photography in several states in North America.

It was only a matter of time that she ventured out into the destination market. Her first booking is with a lovely couple for their wedding in Jamaca! I know that Michelle McKibben will capture all of those "unforgettable moments" and have a great time doing so.

We can't wait to see the pictures, good luck!

~Allure

Romance Trivia Winner!

From left to right: Lindy, Jamie, Natasha and Michelle

Congratulations to Lindy, she was the winner of Allure Event Consulting and Michelle McKibben Photography's Romance Trivia Game. Above is the picture that we took with her the day that we gave her the prize, a very cute tote filled with all kinds of great honeymoon items! She was super cute and super excited to be the winner.

The Honeymoon Tote was not the only thing that Allure and Michelle McKibben Photography will be giving away this year. Keep checking our blogs for updates...you could be our next winner!