Please don't stop the music.
XOXO,
Jen & Saira
Friday, October 1, 2010
Tips for the Bride: Planning your Wedding Entertainment
As Jen prepared her iPod for her trip to Japan and China we got to thinking about music. Just about a year ago today, we were planning out the playlist for Jen's wedding (OMG has it really been a year already?!) and so we figured it would only be right to give you some pointers on your special event entertainment based on first hand experience and research. Part of the fun of planning a wedding or party is deciding on your entertainment, which is, of course, an essential part of any successful event. If you want everyone out on the dance floor you need to be sure to select the appropriate music for your audience (and of course, you'll have to include a few oldies for grandma and grandpa). The biggest factors to consider when selecting your musical entertainment are your budget and your personal style and tastes. Here is a breakdown of the pro and cons of each scenario to help you decide on entertainment for your wedding or other social event.
1. Hiring a small group of musicians like a jazz band or string quartet: Hiring a small group to perform instrumental songs at your wedding or affair can be a beautiful touch that creates an atmosphere of elegance and romance. If your venue is historic, you can consider playing music from that era, such as some great Sinatra or fun Ragtime Jazz. But, keep in mind, classy bands like this come with a really high price tag that averages about $600 for the first hour and $200 each for every additional hour and it will vary depending on where you are from. There are some great options if you can't afford this, though! We suggest asking a friend or two to perform a song, such as your first dance song or for your walk down the aisle. These are some of the most important moments of the night, so it's always a little more personal and romantic to add fun, unexpected touches that are sure to make a huge impact. Plus, a friend might be willing to do this for you for free or in lue of a gift!
2. Of course, you may want to hire a professional band instead to play some of your favorite tunes. A band is certainly more fun, and more costly, than a solo musician or orchestra style entertainers The up side is they play many of the songs that are currently popular, and that your guests are sure to love, and nothing can compare to the energy that comes from having a live band at your event (plus consider the general "coolness" factor!) But also, keep in mind your musical tastes and remember a band might know a lot of current pop songs, but their repertoire is going to be limited. They might know "Livin' on a Prayer", but are they likely to know that obscure Postal Service song you love or that old Elvis song your grandparents used to dance to? Probably not. And, again, bands are very pricey, so if you are planning to budget for a live band in the NYC/New Jersey area you can expect to pay around $5,000 or more. Or, if you aren't down for that price tag, consider scouting out some local talent - there are plenty of young, aspiring musicians out there that would love an opportunity to perform in front of a large crowd for a much more reasonable fee!
3. Hiring a DJ is very popular and for good reason. DJ's can provide all of your favorite songs, can have an nearly unlimited selection to accommodate the largest variety of people, and are the most affordable option when compared to a live band or musician. In addition, a DJ doubles as the MC of the evening and helps to control the flow of your event (which is crucial!). Now, the biggest downfall to the DJ is not having full control over your music. Sure, Lady Gaga is super talented and we adore her, but do we really want to hear the whole album? Actually, we do...but our guests might not! And many of us might actually die if we hear [insert any lame late 1980's/ early 1990's line dancing tune]. But, simply providing a "do not play" list (and stressing the importance that you will literally hurl if you hear said songs) can help to ease your mind. The other factor is to make sure to choose a DJ who's voice you can actually stand for multiple hours. Some of the ones we've encountered are cheesier than others, so just be sure to choose one that fits your personality and can control the flow of the event without stealing the show.
4. And, finally, you can always be your own DJ and provide music through your Ipod. This is definitely the most affordable choice, plus you have the luxury of crafting your own playlists and knowing that it won't be messed with! This is a wonderful option for the couple on a budget that has list of off-beat "must have" songs that a DJ is not likely to have in their collection. We are huge fans of the Ipod wedding, but we suggest hiring a professional to run the playlist for the night. Sure, you can just ask a friend to help out, but hiring a professional ensures that your guests can relax and have fun and also that your playlists transition properly and your night stays perfectly on schedule.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Color Day: Cranberry and Orange
Last week we played around with some Fall neutrals, but what about the warm, rich colors of fall? We LOVE the combination of cranberry/burgundy with a burnt or pumpkin shade of orange. So much so, that Jen used this combination for her very own wedding. Orange is becoming a huge trend in weddings, and pairing it up with another traditional Fall shade, like burgundy, insures your wedding will channel the spirit of fall in a way that is modern and tasteful.
Cranberry/Burgundy and Orange Wedding Inspiration Board
Images from: David Difuntorum Photography, Freed Photography, Abby Rose Photo, Kingen Smith, Tasting Memories, Joyful Heart Design, WeddingBee, Inventing Weddings, Project Wedding, Juja Crafts, Bake Your Heart Out, I Do Inspiration
XOXO,
Jen & Saira
Monday, September 27, 2010
Fall Fashion: Army Green Jacket
The arrival of beautiful foliage means that the change of seasons is upon us and, although the past weeks in NJ have been unseasonably warm, we should prepare for cooler days. When the temps drop the trees might undress, but we like to bundle up! So, a favorite must have item for fall is an army or military inspired green, lightweight jacket. Because they're light weight they are perfect for fall or spring and great for layering over thin tees or sweaters! We've been seeing this look everywhere, varying from feminine flair to rugged chic. Just think of the 90's grunge scene, but pretty.
One of our favorite looks is this cinched anorak by BDG. It's large hood makes it perfect for shielding you from the crisp fall winds, but it's lightweight enough to wear even in September. The details are what make this jacket stand out: we love the cinched waist, hidden zippered pockets, and split hem in the back. This is one fall trend that we'll definitely be sporting.
Another great casual look is this cropped military jacket from Forever 21. It also has a large hood and hidden zippers, and the cropped style makes it perfect for layering. Just throw on a buffalo plaid scarf, and you're all set for apple picking!
A similar, but more polished look is this utility jacket from J. Crew. The jacket sports a comfortable knit trim collar, and is water resistant, which is handy for when you trek through the rainstorms in Nam.
We also love this cropped military jacket by Ann Taylor Loft. The structured Mandarin collar and broad belt will have you marching down the streets with authority, but what really makes this jacket stand out is its deep color. Described as "burnt olive" on the website, this shade of green is rich and vibrant, which is a nice change of pace from all the faded greens. And it especially looks good on red heads, as pictured above.
If you want something less casual, then try on this belted faded olive trench from Victoria's Secret. The large brass buttons and high collar give this a military feel, but the belted waist gives it a nice feminine fit. This look is great for both work and play, and is a bit more interesting than your standard khaki trench.
Another fashion forward look is this lightweight parka available at Top Shop. This is a more urban take on the traditional army green, with a jersey body and cotton layers giving it a soft, cascading look. This parka would look great with leggings and combat boots (our other favorite fall trend) or with tights and heeled oxfords.
Finally, we love this military inspired overcoat from Mod Cloth. Made from a warm wool blend, this is a great coat to have come November, when temperatures begin to drop and you're forced to forgo your light blazers for something more substantial. The cut of this coat makes it appropriate to wear to work, but would work equally well with jeans and booties.
At ease, soldier!
XOXO,
Jen & Saira
Friday, September 24, 2010
Hairstyle Look Book: Retro Glam
There is nothing more glamorous than old Hollywood style. Look perfectly poised with cascading curls, polished waves, or structured updos. It's perfect for a wedding, night out, or just for fun! Remember to coordinate your outfit with your hairdo, and don't forget to smear on the red lipstick!
Looking fierce, dolls!
XOXO,
Jen & Saira
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Color Day: Chocolate, Brown, and Cream
When it comes to Fall decor, you can draw inspiration from so many different colors that it can be overwhelming. If you want your home or event to evoke feelings of hot cider and comfy nights by the fireplace, think of natural neutrals like chocolate and cream blended with a nice medium toned brown. These calming hues flow perfectly into one another and can be used to create a sleek modern look or, if you're like us, you might prefer to embrace nature and create a rustic, charming, and cozy environment. Using earth toned shades like these can really serve to create an inviting atmosphere without sacrificing style or drama and can look incredibly warm and romantic with the glow of candle light and gold accents.
Chocolate, Brown, and Cream Wedding Color Inspiration Board
Images from: Anthropologie, ModCloth, Wedding Cake Ideas, I Do Inspiration, The Slightly Obsessive Bride, Flickr, The Knot, Brides, I Do Times Two, Ola's Dream World, Zappos
XOXO,
Jen & Saira
Monday, September 20, 2010
New York Fashion Week: Spring/Summer 2011 Collections - The Final Installation
The lights have been taken down, platforms and runways disassembled, and confetti cleared as the Mercedes-Benz fashion week in NYC has come to a close. Although the Fall weather is upon us, we'll anxiously await the warm weather while we sit comfortable in our leggings and oversized sweaters. Though there are many months to come before we can wear those cute little sheath dresses, it's always nice to get a sneak peak at what's in store for us next season. So, before we all go into hibernation, let's get on with it and show you the remainder of some of the most wearable pieces that we are most excited about for the Spring.
Ann Sui's collection reminds us on the great plains and we just love the patterns, and embroidery. The colors, fabrics, and details had a very western, pioneer feel to them and the pieces, while inspired by the folksy hippie styles of the 1970's, looked modern and romantic.
Soft chiffon and sweet eyelet fabrics made Bebe's collection ultra feminine and light. Again following the 1970's trends seen all over the runways this season, Bebe paired their garments with fold over booties and ultra sexy platform sandals for a modern flair.
Calvin Klein
Minimalist at it's best, that is what we could say about the Calvin Klein show. Although most of the pieces were black and white, and some of the garments looked a little shapeless, there were certainly pieces that payed homage to Klein's way of looking effortlessly chic and polished.
Isaac Mizrahi
Isaac Mizrahi became known to us for his designs sold in Target stores and ever since then he's been a favorite. Although we weren't really digging the shear shoulders with the stiff white collars, these pieces are beautiful and elegant, perfect for any spring special event!
How on earth did we leave out Marc Jacobs?!? Always fans of just about anything Marc Jacobs, his collection for Spring/Summer 2011 did not disappoint! The styles were great and the color palette was bright and refreshing with brilliant shades of red-orange, yellow, and blue.
Spring was in the air at the Michael Kors show, with gorgeous shades of green, beige, and tan. But, not only were the colors earth inspired, so were the fabrics! Using eco friendly fabrics, Michael Kors put together a collection that was casual and relaxing, while still looking polished and luxurious.
Who says our wardrobe can't have a little eccentric flair? We think the collection by Milly is professional but still very sexy and playful and definitely ready-to-wear! We love the pencil skirts, dresses, bold but tasteful graphics, and daring color contrasts!
Vibrant tangerine and lush raspberry stood out the Nanette Lepore runway. Overall, this collection was so lovable and versatile, with pieces that could easily be dressed up or down depending on the occasion and vintage style swimsuits that you'll be sure we'll have our eyes on once they hit the stores!
Oscar de la Renta
Classy, upscale, and sophisticated can describe the Spring/Summer 2011 Collection presented by fashion great Oscar de la Renta. First-lady-worthy fashions like tailored suits, fitted dresses, and fantastic cardigans were some or our favorites, and then of course, there were the gowns, like the white one shown above, that just blew us away!
The best way we could think to sum up the Ralph Lauren Collection is: Wild Wild West meets The Great Gatsby meets The Hills. Western fringe, leather, and belt buckles were paired up with lacey, embroidered tops and dresses, and then topped off with a metallic platform heel or handbag to create a truly modern looks.
Definitely one of our favorites of the week, Tory Burch's Spring/Summer collection felt truly youthful and "springy". Cardigans, cropped pants, skirts, & light jackets, all in beautifully bright spring colors, lined the runway and were a nice break from the usual sea of whites, pale pinks, and neutrals. We'd be thrilled for these items to walk right off the runway and into our closets.
XOXO,
Jen & Saira
Friday, September 17, 2010
New York Fashion Week: Spring/Summer 2011 Collections Part 2
So many great shows have taken place over the past few days and we are so excited to share them with you. From our time tested favorites, like Badgley Mischka, to designers we are just now falling in love with, such as Yoana Baraschi, fashion week is inspiring and fun and definitely brings out the girly girl in us all. There are so many fabulous tops, skirts and dresses we could totally see ourselves wearing...you know, once they go on clearance at Macy's..or Target comes out with an affordable line. Anyway, here is our continuation of Mercedes-Benz Fashion week featuring Spring and Summer 2011 Collections. Enjoy!
While their gowns are seriously to die for, we chose to show these items because they seemed like items that we would actually wear on a regular basis. Casual, yet still chic, Badgley and Mischka put together a versatile and truly wearable collection. Plus, those colors are gorgeous!
When it comes to understated, old world glamour, no one does it better than Carolina Herrera. Her Asian inspired collection featured timeless cuts, flowing wide leg pants, pretty wrap tops and plenty of pretty floral prints to go around!
Donna Karen never fails to convey the image that the modern New York woman can be both powerful and pretty. This collection featured silk scarves (oo la la), some tailored and structured pieces, and some frilly dresses and skirts - not to mention some really adorable pumps in a variety of colors!
Light and breezy fabrics, flowing wide legged bottoms, and straw hats galore adorned the Malandrino models. Inspired by the south of France, this collection makes us imagine ourselves strolling down the streets of Marseille or people watching in a cafe in Toulon.
Glamor and elegance are what Monique Lhuillier does best. Her gowns, though we only show one here, are absolutely stunning, but that was not all! Cocktail dresses, tops, and pants we equally as lovely and each piece was like a delicate and dreamy work of art.
Effortlessly chic and sexy, Rebecca Taylor's collection is the modern version of 1970's style. This collection contained a nice blend of soft and edgy, with subtle animal prints mixed with girly flowing skirts and dresses, pale pinks, and delicate florals.
We just cannot get enough of this guy and his soft and tranquil collection for Spring/Summer 2011. Inspired by Renaissance frescoes, his dresses are romantic, feminine, and so completely goddess-like that we felt like looking at his collection was like we were floating through some ethereal dream world.
When you think Tommy, you think preppy. With a palette that would make Chuck Bass swoon, Tommy Hilfiger certainly did not disappoint. This collection had a little bit of funk and eccentricity, while still staying true to Tommy's usual country club style.
A twist on boho-hippie style gives Vivienne Tam's collection laid back feel while still looking polished and put together. Crochet cotton dresses that scream relaxation and bold ethnic prints that any world traveler could admire give this collection global appeal.
Yoana Baraschi's collection was full of beautiful spring pastels, chic urban neutrals, and summery bright colors! These pieces are all so fun, fresh, and easily wearable, making Yoana a stand out designer in our eyes. We love the flowing floral dresses, navy blue paired with white polka dots and bright oranges and pinks, and the overall youthful feel of this feminine collection.
Fashion week may be wrapping up today, but don't worry, there's more to come Monday as we finish up our coverage with the rest of our favorites like Tory Burch, Michael Kors, Nanette Lepore, Calvin Klein, and more!!
XOXO,
Jen & Saira
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