KD Event Designs

Rock Festival Themed Wedding ~ Marci + Eric ~ The Orpheum Theater

2011-11-07T14:35:00.000-08:00

Wedding Team:

Caterer: Thornagers
Desserts: Sugar Mamas
Floral: Glamorous Occasions
Photographer:Melissa Dunstan Photography
Photobooth: Shutterbox
Rentals: Classic Party Rentals
Venue: Orpheum Theater - Flagstaff

Marci & Eric's love of music inspired this non traditional event at the Orpheum Theater in Downtown Flagstaff.

I had a poster made and Greg from the Orpheum put thier names on the marquee.

Marci's two girls were her bridesmaids & Eric's son's his groomsmen. What a fun family they
are!

Eric is a muscian and wrote a song for Marci which he sung to her during the reception. All of the guests received a cd of Eric's music as a gift.

Melissa Dunstan had to take a photo in a record store - Rock-It-Man CD's.

Thornagers Catering did a fantastic job with the food. Marci & Eric wanted different stations for their guests to enjoy. They had a salad station, meat lovers station, stir fry station, a gourmet grilled cheese truck & a gelato station. I made these fun signs with the menu choices on them and had them at each station. Tents were constructed in the parking lot of the Orpheum where the food was served. A yellow umbrella and table inside served as the gelato station.

Marci & Eric had beer glasses made as favors. We had a kids area separate from the adults. The younger ones got these cute boxes filled with chips, peanut butter & jelly sandwiches & candy. Kraft paper lined the bar area and crayons, markers and stickers were in metal pails so the kids could draw and create. I also re-covered the existing stools with fun plaid fabrics in pinks, blues & oranges. The Teenagers sat at the opposite bar area, I wrapped pink and blue ribbon around their napkins for a little extra punch of color.

The photobooth from Shutterbox was a fun addition and all of the photos were put into an album as a keep sake for the bride and groom.

Because the wedding was held at a music venue, I made concert tickets that served as the guest's escort cards. They had to go to the will call booth at the theater to find out what table they were sitting at!

The ceremony took place on stage and all of the guests sat in the audience and watched as the happy couple exchanged their vows. The ceremony concluded with a group hug representing the joining of their two families! As I mentioned above, Eric serenaded his bride with a song he wrote for her, so touching!

This was an interesting space as it is a music venue with theater seating and a stage. I really wanted to soften the space so we constructed a beautiful fabric draped chuppa for the couple to stand under during the ceremony. I also created an area for the bridal party and family to sit under during the reception. We strung globe lights across the top and I made these really fun chandeliers out of flowers and chicken wire (the shades were given to me from a friend who was replacing their lighting in their house and needed a visual so he created these life size models)

Marci & I found this fun fabric and Anne Thomas from Anne's Alterations made table runners for me.

All of the flowers and centerpieces were designed by Glamorous Occasions.

In keeping with the music theme, I made the table markers rows and put them in CD cases. Sugar Mamas made all of the beautiful desserts!

It was an amazing evening and I wish Eric & Marcy a lifetime full of happiness! Thanks for letting me be a part of your day!
xxoo!
Kim

Retro Fifties Wedding ~ Featured on Bride & Joy!

2011-10-31T18:21:00.000-07:00

Very excited that Katie & Jim's retro wedding is featured on Bride & Joy along side Melissa Dunstan Photography!

Woodsy Whimsical Wedding Reception ~ Bryce + Alex Reception, Private Residence

2011-10-31T14:57:00.000-07:00

Vendors:

Rentals: Classic Party Rentals

Photographer: Josh Biggs Photography

Bryce & Alex had their reception in the front yard of their home. I helped transform their driveway into a whimsical wonderland! We tented the driveway and put down a wooden dance floor. Long tables with chocolate pintuck linens added a touch of elegance. We used fresh herbs and lavender in square vases for the centerpieces. Alex had these cute monogramed napkin rings made and seeds in pots with burlap were given as favors. We lined the tent walls and ceilings with branches and twinkle lights to complete the mood.

Katie + Jim ~ Retro Wedding Featured on Bridal Musings

2011-10-13T09:54:00.000-07:00

Bridal Musings is such a great blog! They loved Katie & Jim's wedding so much that they published 2 blog posts! Thanks Elizabeth!

Part 1

Part 2

Katie & Jim's Retro Wedding Featured On Savvy Scoop!

2011-10-12T23:06:00.000-07:00

How fun to be featured on Savvy Scoop!

Farm Wedding ~ Featured on Fab You Bliss & K.I.S.S. Real Weddings

2011-10-12T22:37:00.000-07:00

I am very honored that Erica & Matt's wedding I did with Melissa Dunstan a few years ago in Wisconsin was featured on Fab You Bliss & K.I.S.S. Real Weddings!

1950's Inspired Wedding ~ Katie + Jim Sycamore Springs Guest Ranch

2011-10-11T14:53:00.000-07:00

Vendors:

Venue: Sycamore Springs Guest House

Photographer:Melissa Dunstan Photography
Dress: Anne's Alterations
Rentals: Classic Party Rentals
Caterer: Epic Events
Hair & Make-up: Victor

Katie & Jim knew they wanted a 1950's themed wedding but weren't sure how to pull it off. Katie had her dress, wanted sunflowers & daisy's Incorporated into the decor and had a box full of coke glasses for vases. The rest was up to me. Well let me tell you how much fun I had going to different antique shops and thrift stores to find props to try and bring the era to life for her day!

Melissa Dunstan & Kristen Carnes did not disappoint with the photographs!

Katie & Jim wanted their ceremony in a circle. I hung daisy's from the tree over the ceremony site. After they said their "I Dos" the skipped down the aisle.

Katie's dress and shoe clips were designed by Anne Thomas of Anne's Alterations. I absolutely loved the yellow petty coats & the suspenders!

I pulled in as many authentic details to the era as I could find. I used lavender, butter cream and turquoise cotton linens. An old Kodak brownie camera, sunflowers & daisies in coke glasses as well as black and white photographs of Katie & Jim's families lined the tables.

I strung individual daisy's in bud vases over the head table for a touch of whimsy!

Cocktail hour was by the pond. I printed out interesting facts from each year of the era and hung them from the trees for guests to read. An old popcorn machine and pepsi crate were great accents to the appetizer table. I found an old Frigidare produce drawer to chill the white wine in.

The tables were named after 50's television shows. The magazine rack is also from the 50' (Fun fact... Audrey Hepburn is one of my favorite actresses and I have seen Breakfast at Tiffany's over a dozen times. So I threw my personal copy of the record in as a prop!)

I borrowed an old platter pak of records from my Dad's collection.

More fun props I found to decorate all of the tables with.

Couldn't resist buying this Better Homes & Gardens Decorating Book!

Apple pie was served for dessert. It was a beautiful day!

Alex~The Best Dog in the Whole World!

2011-08-06T14:28:00.000-07:00

Two weeks ago today I said goodbye to my best friend! She was 13. I was lucky enough that Alex chose me to be her mom back in May of 1998. It had only been two months since I tragically lost my mom and in no way did I want to bring a puppy into my life. I felt like I had no love to give. How wrong I was! This little thing came into my life looked up at me with her big brown eyes and I was hooked!

She has been with me for all of the important things in my life over the past 13 years. Relationships, breakups, holidays, births, deaths, new careers and adventures! She has been my support, my family and has loved me unconditionally! I miss her desperately!

I thought I would share a few photos with you all! I also need to thank from the bottom of my heart all of my friends and family who were there with me and helped me through those horrible few days. A special thanks to Liz and her fiancee Alex, (Liz lost her little baby Tara just the week before to kidney failure-her and Alex grew up together), thank for coming over and helping me get her up and outside. Angie & Liz thank you for going with me to the vet, being there at the end with me and holding my hand and letting me cry. Kristen & Melissa for rushing over after a long day of work to sit on the porch, drink a beer with me and toasting the best dog in the whole world!

I was so blessed to have had her in my life and know that she is running around up there with her her friends Tara, Sophie & Ginger, chasing deer and keeping my Mom company! I miss you and will always love you Alex, my very sweet girl!

I had only had her a few days when my dad took this great photo of her. It was really hot and she found this crevice with running water to cool off in! She loved to hike!

We took her up to Lake Powell where she tumbled off the boat and landed on her nose in the sand, she was such a cute puppy.

Alex and Beefy just couldn't understand why they could not come in the house after being skunked the night before. Kristen & I gave them a bath of hydrogen peroxide, baking soda and detergent and left them outside in the sun where they both proceeded to get lovely red highlights!

Melissa Dunstan took the two photos of Alex below. She was even featured in an ad in Mountain Living & ended up touring the country for a trade show advertising canvases! Very pretty girl!

Vintage Safari Style Shoot- Blog Around the World!

2011-07-31T11:43:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to have been part of Blog Around the World where twenty wedding bloggers each showcase a photo from the Vintage Desert Safari styled shoot I helped with. There are so many amazing blogs with wonderful resources out there!

Vintage Safari Styled Shoot at Out of Africa Wild Life Park

2011-07-26T20:21:00.000-07:00

Vendors:

Venue: Out of Africa Wildlife Park

(although not available for weddings, they always welcome donations to support rescue animals)

Photographer:Fancy Finn Photography
Vendor Coordination: The Charity Wedding
Design, Styling & Staging: KD Event Designs
Bouquet: Glamorous Occasions
Cake & Desserts: Kick Ass Kakes

Cup Cakes: The Charity Wedding
Makeup: Sabrina Sweet

Hair: Erin McDonald of Aveda Salon

Dress: La Belle Reve

Jewlery: Genevieve

Model: Dahlee

A couple of months ago Alicia from the Charity Wedding approached me regarding styling a staged shoot she was doing with Fancy Finn Photography, a Seattle based studio. The theme was safari and Alicia and I both agreed on adding a vintage flare. The first thing that came to mind was early English travelers visiting Africa for the first time and bringing all of their comforts of home with them. Their books, china, furniture & accessories.

I borrowed the table (which is actually an antique game table that was used to butcher meat on) and the chairs from my parents house. The cabriolla chair with the lion head was a perfect fit. The wooden animals, whales tooth & mask are from Africa and also from my parents collection. The vintage books with the draping flowers, the mismatched china & wine glasses as well as the candlesticks added a hint of romance.

The amazing paper products are from the Wedding Girl!

This was such a fun shoot to do because I was able to really get creative and create a table scape that was beautiful and over the top!

The Charity Wedding Featured on Style Me Pretty~Alicia & Kyle

2011-07-25T20:04:00.000-07:00

What an honor to be once again featured on Style Me Pretty for this amazing event!

The Charity Wedding Featured on Weekly Wedding~Alicia & Kyle

2011-07-24T19:50:00.000-07:00

How exciting to be featured on this fun blog!

Intimate Hawaiin Wedding Featured on A Pocketful of Dreams

2011-07-21T11:15:00.000-07:00

How exciting to be featured on this sweet little blog out of the United Kingdom!

Kauai Wedding Featured on A Paper Proposal!

2011-07-20T11:49:00.000-07:00

What an honor to be featured alongside Melissa Dunstan Photography on this really great blog!

Romantic Kauai Wedding ~ Kristen & J

2011-07-18T13:14:00.000-07:00

Event Day Vendors:

Venue: Private Residence

Photographer:Melissa Dunstan Photography
Rentals: Kauai Tent and Rentals
Caterer: Chef Grant Carnes-Keoki's Paradise
Hair: Relish Salon & Spa
Music: Kenny Ray Rapozo
Officiant: Julie Wirtz

I am always excited and feel privileged to help a couple plan and execute their wedding day, but it is extra special when it is someone I know and love! Kristen & J began dating in the Summer of 2006. I got to have a front row seat to see their love blossom and grow. I remember vividly sitting in my back yard and Kristen telling me how excited she was to go out on a date with this guy named J. One date was all it took and the rest is as they say, is history.

They compliment each other beautifully and to have been able to be a part of their day was absolutely amazing! Their venue didn't hurt either! Set on the beautiful Napoli coast of Kauai, Hawaii, Kristen & J. were married in a small ceremony with the ocean as their back drop. We then moved to the front of the house under a tree for the reception were there were breathtaking views of the mountains and lush vegetation. It was truly a postcard moment.

Kristen is extremely creative and an amazing photographer as well as Melissa Dunstan's assistant. She knew what she wanted for her day. She wanted simple & sweet with a touch of vintage charm. I think we accomplished that.

It was a gorgeous day!

Kristen looked stunning!

It was so amazing that the front of the property was so tropical & lush!

While the back was beach front!

I made Kristen's bouquet from a King Protea, it was simple and elegant and complimented her dress. I love the gorgeous photo of them in the trees, by Melissa Dunstan!

Vintage Hawaiian postcards were the guest book.

Kristen & I made handmade place cards & menus out of luggage tags & buttons. They purchased mismatched plates and glasses from a local thrift store and had napkins made from brightly colored fabric. The meal, which was executed superbly by the grooms brother Grant Carnes, chief at Keoki's Paradise was served at the family style table which seated all 30 guests.

I made chair markers for the bride and groom out of old lace & luggage tags. I singed the edges of the paper to add a vintage feel.

The day was absolutely picture perfect! Congratulations J. & Kristen!

Featured in Green Living Magazine ~ March 2011 Issue

2011-07-17T15:44:00.000-07:00

I am so honored to have been featured in the March 2011 issue of Green Living AZ Magazine on Eco-Chic Weddings. I try to reuse & recycle as much as possible from event to event as well as in my personal life. Weddings can be really wasteful so borrowing, reusing and recycling is a must!

First Friday at Sundara

2011-07-01T11:08:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to style the dessert table for Sundara for First Friday back in June.

Because they are now serving tea & coffee we played off that theme by adding sweet arranagements in tea cups from Glamorous Occasions. I also brought in vintage touches by adding a suitcase, wine crate & a fun wooden box filled with various jars, vases and flowers. All of the desserts were lovingly made by Alexis at Sundara.

Recycled Centerpiece Ideas

2011-05-19T10:48:00.000-07:00

After doing events I tend to end up with a lot of flowers left over. I am big advocate of reusing and recycling and frequently rent out my large inventory of vases to brides. My clients often buy candles holders, vases and other items and when the day is over they realize that they really have no use nor the storage for 25 vases and 100 votives, thus I end up with a lot of things. So before buying ask your wedding professional if they have items you can rent. This saves you time and money.

Below are two centerpiece ideas I came up with using left over flowers from events that I enjoyed in my home. The lace runner is from a rustic themed wedding I did, the pieces of wood from a travel themed wedding & candlesticks and vases have been used in many of my events.

The Charity Wedding ~ Alicia & Kyle

2011-05-11T09:10:00.000-07:00

Event Day Vendors:

Venue: Tequa Plaza

Photographer:Melissa Dunstan Photography

Floral Design: Glamorous Occasions

Cake: Sedona Sweet Arts
Rentals: Classic Party Rentals
Caterer: Red Rock Cafe
DJ: Downtown Browne Productions
Hair: Erin McDonald
Dress:Victorian Cowgirl
Hair Piece & Sash: Marie of Emici Bridal
Shoes: Me Too & Toms

Charities that Benefited: American Heart Association, Camp Soaring Eagle, Second Chance Animal Shelter

I met Alicia and Kyle at the Sedona Bridal Show and then again in Flagstaff. They shared with me their unique approach to planning their wedding and giving back as well as raise awareness for some community based non-profits. In the end, the three non-profits that benefited were Camp Soaring Eagle, a camp for sick children, the Second Chance Center for Animals, a no kill shelter in Flagstaff that also offers low cost medical care, education and emergency care for animals & the American Heart Association.

I was really intrigued by this and in awe of Alicia and Kyle's selfless act on a day that is typically "all about me". I like, Melissa Dunstan have always been involved or volunteered in some capacity for different charities in the community.

The more Alicia & Kyle and I talked and I really began to understand what their intentions were for their special day, I absolutely wanted to be part of it! On a personal level, I shared with them how I lost my mom at the very young age of 54 to sudden cardiac arrest. Heart disease is the leading killer of women yet there is very little awareness. In honor of my Mom, Sandy Duncan all of the girls wore red shoes and a portion of the money left over went to the American Heart Association. To say that I was "touched" is an understatement. It took all the strength I could muster to not break down, but I did have a wedding to put on. My Mom passed away 5 months before my sister got married and I am always reminded of what we missed out on every time a do a wedding. Thank you Alicia for bringing a little bit of my Mom to your day!

Alicia has a great blog dedicated to giving back. It was named one of the best blogs by Once Wed. Check it out The Charity Wedding.

Below are some of favorite photos from the day!

I love the dress from Victorian Cowgirl & the belt from Marie by Emici Bridal.

All those red shoes for you Mom! Alicia made these really cute hangers for all of her bridesmaids.

Kyle looks nervous as he is waiting to see Alicia for the first time!

I love the sign Alicia made from a paper doily, spray paint and twine.

Amazing cake from Sedona Sweet Arts. Alicia's favors were pumpkin snicker doodles made by Sweet Grace Restaurant and she made cute bags to put them in.

Melissa Dunstan of course had to get a shot of Alicia & Kyle's beagle Charlie, how cute is he!

I love mixing and matching vases and having different centerpieces on each of the tables. Alicia & I collected a ton of vases and candlesticks from local thrift stores. Dana from Glamorous Occasions did all of the beautiful fall floral. The couple are wine connoisseurs so I named all of the tables after different variatles.

It was a perfect day! A wedding with a cause!

Travel Themed Wedding at the Arizona Snowbowl ~ Stephanie & Graham

2011-05-10T23:03:00.000-07:00

Event Day Vendors:

Venue: Arizona Snowbowl

Photographer:Cameron+Kelly Studios

Bouquet & Boutinere: Sutcliffe Floral

Cake: Beautiful Leaf Bakery
Rentals: Classic Party Rentals
Photo Booth: Self Portrait Station

"Stephanie & Graham met in Sudan while enjoying a semi-illicit beer and bratwurst evening with the rest of the ex-patriot community at the German Embassy in Khartoum. Even though a humanitarian worker and peace-keeping military officer wouldn't usually fraternize, they managed to get to know each other despite strict security, insane working hours, and laws against public displays of affection." This where their love story began!

Stephanie is from Flagstaff and Graham is from England. It was important for Stephanie to be married in a place that overlooked her father's property in Kendrick Mountain. The Arizona Snowbowl was the perfect venue. Even though her father was not there physically, his spirit could be felt all around.

The theme of the wedding was travel. Stephanie & Graham have both traveled extensively and they had guests come from all over the world. We had suitcases, a globe, wood statue of an elephant, zebra & giraffe to set the stage. Graham did a beautiful watercolor of zebras from a photo he took while in Africa and it was printed on their invitations and I also used the image for the menus. I took wood that was salvaged from her father's property and decoupaged vintage maps on them and tied the planks together with jute for centerpieces. Mismatched vases with wild flowers brought in a touch of Arizona to this worldly themed event. The escort cards were a fallen aspen branch that was cut into circles and guests names were pasted on. The table markers were old postcards I found at an antique shop with the names of the different countries the bride and groom had traveled to with a short description of their adventures there.

The couple wanted to have photo booth for their guests to enjoy. The Self Portrait Studio was so much fun and a great keepsake from the wedding. Stephanie & Graham are a sweet couple and are happily living in England.

Below are a few of the beautiful photos from Cameron & Kelly Studios.

Bridal Happy Hour/Open House Celebrations Studio!

2011-05-05T22:13:00.000-07:00

Vintage Inspired Table for Bridal Show

2011-05-02T21:47:00.000-07:00

The Radisson Woodlands Hotel had asked me to help them design their room for this years bridal show. I wanted to do something light and pretty. I brought in white & buttercream lamour linens and fruitwood chivarri chairs from Classic Party Rentals. I reused a lace runner from a previous wedding, used an old vintage suticase as a centerpiece, thrift store brass candlesticks and milk glass vases gave the table a very vintage feel. I tied bear grass around the napkins and attached hand made place cards to them.

The end result was soft & romantic.

Picnic Inspired Table Design!

2011-04-21T13:11:00.000-07:00

Karen from Thornagers Catering is now offering a picnic menu for casual weddings. She had asked me to design a table showcasing Bamboo Studio products. We used a Descanso Table and benches from Classic Party Rentals, I brought in a burlap runner, old milk & coke bottles for vases, willow branches, mason jars & a cute wedding sign. I designed some fun and festive place cards to finish the table. Thank you to Kristen Gruber Photography for taking fabulous photos for me!

This is a perfect table for a casual outdoor event!

Bridal Shows

2011-04-19T12:16:00.000-07:00

The Members of Celebrations Studio - Melissa Dunstan Photography, Glamorous Occasions, DT Browne, Thornagers Catering & the High Country Conference Center and myself designed a booth for both the Phoenix Bridal Show at the Phoenix Convention Center and the Flagstaff Bridal Show at the Radisson. They were a great success and lots of fun. Below are some photos from our booths. Thank you to Classic Party Rentals for all of the rentals.

Fall Inspired Table Scape

2011-04-04T16:07:00.000-07:00

I am always playing with items to create new and interesting table designs. Here is one I did last fall for Celebrations Studio. My favorite flower is the Sunflower and I have a ton in my yard. I think the centers are so interesting when they are dried so I used them along with fall leaves as an accent at each place setting. I tied dried sunflowers, leaves and place cards, which doubled as a menu to the napkins with twine. I added lots of fall leaves from around the yard, different size candle holders and mums to create an elegant and festive table. Thank you to Classic Party Rentals for all of the rentals.

Pagagon Athletics! The Best Workout Ever!

2011-03-28T11:02:00.000-07:00

I have done many workouts in my life, but never like this one. Ryan Whited of Paragon Athletics, well he is amazing! Let me start by saying I injured my shoulder a few years ago and didn't get it properly taken care of and it became frozen. I went through physical therapy and massage and nothing really seemed to alleviate the pain, and my shoulder and arm were beginning to atrophy. Not to mention I was not great shape. I began working out with Ryan in August of 2010, it is the best workout I have ever done! I am stronger, I feel better, I look better and as long as I keep working out my shoulder does not hurt. And a major plus, I lost 30 pounds and went from a size 10 to a 5.

The workout is unique and tailored to each individual/group. It is challenging and fun! It is never the same and I actually look forward to my workouts as well as miss them when I don't get to go (which is rare, sick or out of town are the only two reasons for missing).

Why am I telling you all about this, well I have seen brides go to extreme measures to be fit for the most important day of their lives, and this really works! So if you have a couple of girl friends and can start a group of 5 it is only $15 per session, per person! Check out his website for more information and schedules! Don't let the photographs intimidate you, if I can do this work out, ANYONE can! Paragon Athletics

Kim

Photo Booth by Self Portrait Station

2011-03-24T14:51:00.000-07:00

I met Jill & Michael McNamara from SPS at a vendor mixer in Phoenix! I loved their photo booth concept and hired them for a wedding at the Arizona Snowbowl in October. They are so much fun! Girls a photo booth is a must have at your wedding if there is room in the budget! And I really enjoyed working with these guys!

Sophisticated Wedding at Hassayampa Golf Club ~ Kristin & Jack

2011-03-17T13:00:00.000-07:00

Event Day Vendors:

Venue: Hassayampa Golf Club

Photographer:Marianne Wilson Photography
Floral: Sutcliffe Floral
Cakes: Hassayampa Golf Club

Kristin who is a huge Style Me Pretty follower hired me to help coordinate her day. She had wonderful ideas and details and needed help pulling it all together. What a sweet couple she and Jack are. He proposed to her on a cruise in front of champagne fountain. Thus we recreated one and the glasses became the guests escort cards.

The Hassayampa Golf Club in Prescott is an amazing venue to work with. They are so helpful and made my job really easy!

Below are some photos from the day taken by Marianne Wilson who is an amazing photographer out of Southern California!

I loved Kristin's dress and the flowers from Sutcliffe Floral were beautiful!

Featured on Recycled Bride- Jennifer & Matthew's Wedding!

2011-02-27T18:57:00.000-08:00

I am so excited to also be featured on Recycled Bride for Jennifer & Matthew's wedding! What an honor! Thank you to cameron + kelly studios for taking such amazing photos of the day!

Featured on Style Me Pretty! Rustic Arizona Wedding!

2011-02-27T18:33:00.000-08:00

I am so excited to be featured on Style Me Pretty for Jennifer & Matthew's wedding! What an honor! Thank you to cameron + kelly studios for taking such amazing photos of the day!

Jennifer & Matthew - Rustic Elegance - Mormon Lake Lodge

2011-02-26T17:13:00.000-08:00

Event Day Vendors:

Venue: Mormon Lake Lodge

Photographer: cameron + kelly studios
Event Design & Styling: KD Event Designs
Bouquets & Boutonnieres: Events by Showstoppers
Cake: Sedona Cake Couture
Event Planning: Peak Events

What can I say about this wedding, there is so much. First of all they are such a lovely couple. Matthew, known as Bubba to friends and family, writes Jennifer love letters daily, I wanted to incorporate them into the design in a meaningful and creative way. Her father Bill, has been the pressman at the Arizona Daily Sun for nearly 30 years so I had a few the love letters printed on news print, burned the edges to give them a vintage flare & placed at each guests seat.

Jennifer wanted Victorian rustic meets Louisiana, I think we achieved that. The ceremony site was in a small clearing in front of a fallen tree. I placed Spanish moss and roses on the log, and the aisle was lined with roses from Bubba's grandmothers garden (which I picked for him) and tulips (his favorite flower) in mason jars and tied to rebar.

The reception was inside the lodge and we created an elegant and romantic feel by lining the tables with lace runners that were cut by Anne's Aleterations, magnolia leaves, Spanish moss, roses & candlesticks. I brought in old suitcases and we had photos of each of their parents, and grandparents wedding photos as well as child hood photos of them both.

Below are some my favorite photos from the day from the amazing cameron + kelly studios! Jennifer looked stunning, her hair & make up was done by her best friend Jennifer Rand Walker at Face Body Beauty

The cake was amazing! Andrea from Sedona Cake Couture used vintage buttons as molds to create the beautiful details.

What an honor to be a part of such a special day!

Rina & Chris - Outdoor Wedding, Private Residence

2011-02-22T12:23:00.000-08:00

Event Day Vendors:

Venue: Parent's Ranch, Parks, Arizona

Photographer: Harrison Hurwitz Photgraphy

Dried Floral Centerpieces: Celedon Studios

Floral Centerpieces & Bouquet: KD Event Designs

Cup Cakes: Made with love by Family Friend

Rentals/Tenting: Classic Party Rentals

Rina & Chris had a traditional Jewish ceremony at her parent's ranch in Parks, Arizona where she spent her summer vacations as a child. Her father spent countless hours cleaning up the ceremony site, and constructed the aisle and stage from old barn wood around the property.

A family friend made this great sign as you entered the property as well as the beautiful quilt.

Her sister-in-law, Michelle made these amazing centerpieces out of wheat and dried roses. The cowboy hat was Rina's Grandfathers, so I wanted to include it in the decor.

Being an old homestead, there were tons of little treasures around the property to use as props.

I added lavender and mint to Rina's bouquet to add a hint of whimsy and it smelled fantastic!

Rina and her family and friends were so much fun! It was such an honor to be a part of their very special day.

Cat & Eric - Rustic Wedding at the Flagstaff Nordic Center

2011-02-19T11:33:00.000-08:00

Event Day Vendors:

Venue: Flagstaff Nordic Center

Photographers - Ceremony & Reception: Jerry Foreman Photography & Set Apart Photography

Photographer- Details: Melissa Dunstan Photography

Floral: Splendid Things

Cake: Sedona Cake Couture

Rentals/Tenting: Classic Party Rentals

Cat saw Kate & Norm's October 2009 wedding which was featured on Style Me Pretty and wanted a similar look and feel but on a much larger scale. Cat is a teacher and so the apples with the place cards were a must have! Here are a few of my favorite photos from the day.

Below are a few of the amazing details shot by Melissa Dunstan Photography as well as ceremony & reception photos shot by Jerry Foreman Photography & Set Apart Photography

Eric & his friends & family made the chuppa out of fallen trees that were laying around the ceremony site. Debbie from Classic Party Rentals helped me attach the ceiling with scrap pieces of muslin and I attached foliage on the poles for an added decorative element.

We brought out an antique vanity and used a bird cage for guests to put cards in and I designed the guests seating assignments on recycled paper and attached them with clothes pins to an old suit case. Vases were made out of hollowed out Aspen branches by a family friend.

Cat wanted apples as place settings, chalkboards for table numbers and old books to represent her teaching career. This was a large wedding, 300 guests, and with limited space Cat decided to seat the kids on old quilts. She had baskets filled with suckers, animal crackers and other fun treats for them to enjoy! She also had small jars of local honey as favors.

Look at this fun and festive cake by Sedona Cake Couture. I love the song lines written on the side and the adorable cake toppers made in the bride and grooms likeness from Etsy.

Cat looked beautiful!

Cat & Eric were so much fun! High fiving after they were married before the kiss & Cat pushing Eric into the reception in a wheel barrel.

Jennifer & Christian - Jesse Gregg Park, Flagstaff

2011-02-18T10:44:00.000-08:00

div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">Jen & Christian were married this summer at Jesse Gregg Park in June. They wanted a fun and festive atmosphere for their family and friends to enjoy. It was a beautiful day!

Wedding Day Vendors:

Venue: Jesse Gregg Park, Flagstaff

Photographer: Kristen Gruber Photography

Bouquet & Boutonniere: Sutcliffe Floral

Rentals/Tenting: Tri Rentals

Catering: Salsa Brava

Wedding Cake, Cupcakes & Cookies: Baked with love by Family & Friends

Grooms Suit: Hugo Boss

Below are a few of the amazing details and moments shot by Kristen Gruber Photography!

It was a perfect summer day!

How to Deal with Porta Potties for an Outdoor Event?

2011-02-17T09:34:00.001-08:00

I don't think any bride dreams about having to use a porta potty on her wedding day. As wedding season approaches and I have more and more brides asking for outdoor receptions, the big question is what do we do about bathrooms? Porta potties are so ugly, what should I do? Here are a few photos of how to make the dreaded pp a little less offensive.

Alicia & Eric - Shoshone Point Grand Canyon

2011-01-04T15:53:00.000-08:00

I have been behind in blogging all of my events and am now playing catch up! Here is what I have been up to!

Wedding Day Vendors:

Venue: Shoshone Point-Grand Canyon

Photographers Ceremony & Reception: Platt Photography

Floral: Glamorous Occasions

Rentals: Classic Party Rentals

Alicia & Eric have had a love affair for the Grand Canyon so naturally it was the perfect setting for their day. They were married at sunset at Shoshone Point at the edge of the canyon, and what an amazing back drop!

Below are a few of the amazing photos taken by Jared Platt

I love this sign Alicia made and had her ring berrer and flower girl carry in front of her as she walked down the aisle.

No need for an arch with this amazing view!

Alicia & Eric brought the sand back from Zion while on a backpacking trip and then poured it into this urn. Beautiful bouquet from Glamorous Occassions

What an amazing day! Congrats again Alicia & Eric!

1st Annual We Festival- Aspey, Watkins & Diesel's 35th Anniversary Event- Heritage Square, Downtown Flagstaff

2010-10-19T11:41:00.000-07:00

Aspey Watkins and Diesel celebrated their 35th Anniversary with the first annual WE Festival celebrating the great community of Flagstaff and Northern Arizona and the unparalleled unity that our residents have for our town. It was an honor to be a part of such a wonderful event.

Event Day Vendors:

Venue: Heritage Square, Flagstaff

Event Design & Planning: KD Event Design

Food Vendor & Non Profit Coordination: Peak Events

Photographer: Melissa Dunstan Photography

Floral: Glamorous Occasion's

Rentals/Tenting: Tri Rentals

Below are a few Photos from the day!

I wanted the floral to be more masculine and loved the idea of incorporating grass and their logo in the design.

I wanted the event to be elegant yet casual. Having the peaked vendor tents with the flags looked great!

Thanks Dana for making my crazy idea of cutting their logo into moss a reality! The partners loved it!

The cruiser bikes which were a raffle prize were from Cosmic Cycles.

Lou Diesel, Harold Watkins & Fritz Aspey

Kate & Norm's Wedding Featured on Sassy Bride!

2010-09-19T14:38:00.000-07:00

How exciting and what a great blog!

Bridal Happy Hour at Thornagers!

2010-09-16T11:44:00.000-07:00

Below are a few photos from the event.

Thank you to Tri Rentals for helping to make my space amazing!
Thank you to Melissa Dunstan for shooting my space for me!

Dana from Glamorous Occasions helped me design this floral arrangement with white mums, green mini poms & kale. I tied cut flower stems to the outside of the vase for texture.

I love the white square plates with the clear plate on top!

Cameron & Matt Clark's Wedding Featured on Style Me Pretty

2010-09-16T09:29:00.000-07:00

It is so exciting to have Cameron & Matt Clark's wedding featured again for their anniversary back in June.

Bridal Happy Hour at Thornagers!

2010-05-22T08:39:00.000-07:00

Please join us for The Bridal Hour, Wednesday, June 2, 6:00 - 8:00 PM
at Thornager's on Kiltie Lane

Online Ticketing powered by Eventbrite

Featured On Style Me Pretty!

2010-04-14T20:44:00.000-07:00

I am once again excited and extremely humbled to be featured on Style Me Pretty for Leah & Brian's wedding weekend in Escalante, Utah.

Featured On Style Me Pretty

2010-03-22T13:43:00.000-07:00

I am so excited and honored to be featured on Style Me Pretty. Thank you Katrina for submitting! It was such an amazing day!

Northern Arizona Wedding Expo

2010-03-06T13:39:00.000-08:00

The Northern Arizona Wedding Expo at the Radisson Woodlands Hotel was a great success! Here are a few photos of my booth.

Thank you to Tri Rentals for helping to make my space amazing! Thank you to Melissa Dunstan for shooting my space for me!

I used mason jars filled with green button poms as candle holders. And the hammered copper flatware are fun.

White Gerbera Daisys make a simple, yet elegant statement on this table.

I love the green stemware!

The copper chargers with the clear plates are rustic yet elegant. I wrapped bear grass around the menu/place card to add a little texture to the cards.

Curly willow added interest to the screen as well as complimented the wooden table.

Kate & Norm - Hot Shot Ranch

2010-02-17T22:45:00.001-08:00

Kate & Norm are both Hotshots and knew they wanted to get married at their training ranch. Out fighting fires most of the summer, Kate & Norm gave me a handful of ideas of what they wanted for their day - country fair theme, peak view, canopy, apples as favors, casual elegance - and let me run with it! What a fun event to design!

Wedding Day Vendors:

Venue: Hotshot Ranch, Flagstaff

Photographer: Sedona Bride

Bouquet & Boutonniere: Events by Showstoppers

Rentals/Tenting: Tri Rentals

Wedding Dress: Neiman Marcus

Catering: Thornager's

Wedding Cakes: Caked

Wedding Pies: Baked with love by Kate's Mom & Aunt

Grooms Suit: Hugo Boss

Below are a few of the amazing details and moments that Katrina & Andrew of Sedona Bride shot!

The guys on the crew cut the poles for the chuppa and Anne's Alterations sewed the canopy.

The apples came from Garland Orchards in Sedona, I used drywall nails for stems and recycled paper lunch bags for the name tags.

I love this photo!

I borrowed old milk crates, cake plates, coke cooler and a popcorn machine to use as props.

Thank you Kate & Norm for giving me such an amazing opportunity!

Amy & David-Flagstaff & Brix

2010-02-10T21:11:00.000-08:00

Amy & David got married in front of their closest family & friends on a wet and chilly fall day in a beautiful Aspen grove. The reception was held at Brix, which never disappoints!

Their wedding is also featured on A Mountain Bride Blog

Wedding Day Vendors:

Venue/Ceremony: Coconino National Forest

Venue/Reception: Brix

Photographer: Cameron + Kelly Studios

Here are a few of my favorites, and kudos to Cameron & Jamelle for traipsing around the forest on such a cold day to capture all of these amazing images!

Amy & I collected Aspen branches and I tied flowers and foilage to them for the centerpeices. I also made a tree that I displayed photos of the couple on at the reception.

Amy's friend (and mine) Roberta made the delicious cakes that I decorated with flowers and leaves.

Thank you Amy & David for letting me be a part of your day!

Anne & Wilson -Dancing Apache Ranch

2010-02-01T22:10:00.000-08:00

Anne & Wilson's day was a bit challenging as their original venue called the week of the event to say they could not hold their wedding there. This is not what any bride or event designer wants to hear! A big thank you to Jim at the Dancing Apache Ranch who came to our rescue. The result, an amazing weekend with beautiful photos from Cameron + Kelly Studios capturing it all!

Wedding Vendors:

Venue: Dancing Apache Ranch, Page Springs, Arizona

Caterer: Anne & Wilson's Family

Photographer: Cameron + Kelly Studios

Wedding Dress/Ceremony: Chic Bride

Wedding Dress/Reception: Anne's Alterations

Grooms Suit: Macys

Here are a few of my favorite photos from the day!

The water feature with carefully placed fresh flowers makes a great alter!

Anne made all of the table decorations out of recycled magazines and paper.

Anne's Mom made all of the colorful napkins for the tables!

I love this tree!

Anne's brother & his girlfriend are just too cute!

It looks like it could be Napa, but we are really in Page, Springs, Arizona

Fresh rasberries & flowers make this yummy store bought cake look finished.

Thank you Anne & Wilson for intrusting me with your day! It was perfect!

Erica & Matt- Lake Wissota, Wisconsin

2009-09-11T14:57:00.000-07:00

Erica & Matt got married in her home town of Colfax, Wisconsin and had her reception at the Lake Wissota Golf Club. Growing up on a dairy farm that her grandparents started, I was able to find great treasures in the basement and around the farm. I used old canning jars for vases, chair ties as runners and had old photographs of family members who have passed greeting guests as they arrived. Mimicking their invitations, I placed ribbon and small flowers on the runners to add a little flair to the centerpieces. The day was beautiful and everyone I met in Wisconsin was lovely!

Wedding Day Vendors:

Venue/Ceremony: Luthern Church Colfax, WI
Venue/Reception: Lake Wissota Golf Club
Photographer: Melissa Dunstan Photography

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The family farm.

Had to throw a cow in there!

Amazing!

Tayloe & Scott Elopement Party-Private Residence

2009-08-23T13:03:00.000-07:00

Tayloe and Scott surprised their friends and family by eloping in New Zealand in December. Thus, they wanted to throw a casual, festive reception upon their return to celebrate their commitment to each other. Their event was planned around a few key elements: a view of the peaks, live music, and a Mexican fiesta. I found a private residence that worked perfectly for the occasion. I brought in native Arizona flowers as well as ferns to represent New Zealand, placing them in vibrant hand-painted paper bags. The linens were apple green and sea blue, and we strung white Chinese lanterns. Romantic Victorian street lights lined the path to the tent. I also included a few surprises for the couple, such as a customized drink menu with their wedding invitation and photos from their ceremony in New Zealand. It was a celebration perfectly suited for this wonderful couple.

Here are some photos from the event.

Wedding Day Vendors:

Venue: Private Residence
Rentals & Tenting: Tri Rentals
Catering: Salsa Brava
Photography: Kristen Nicole Gruber & Dean Knuth
Wedding Dress: J Crew
Grooms Suit: J Crew

Katie & Brad- Wedding in Heritage Square, Downtown Flagstaff, June 2009

2009-08-17T22:46:00.000-07:00

Katie & Brad were married in Heritage Square in Downtown Flagstaff, with their reception in the beautiful courtyard and cozy main dining room of Brix They wanted the men to wear hats and the women to carry parasols to protect them from the heat and sun at the late afternoon ceremony. What a wonderful day it was!

Wedding Day Vendors:

Ceremony Venue: Heritage Square, Downtown Flagstaff
Reception Venue: Brix
Wedding Dress: Sapphire Studios
Grooms Suit: J Crew
Photographer: Dan Chen

I love this photo at the Hotel Monte Vista where the bride and groom stayed.

The reception was quaint and elegant. Katie and Brad were fun to work with and the staff at Brix, amazing!

Dan Chen took all of the incredible photos.

A few more detail photos of the reception before the guests arrived. Thank you Melissa Dunstan for helping me out.

Emily & Tim-Backyard "Beach" Wedding May 2009

2009-08-17T21:46:00.000-07:00

Emily & Tim wanted an intimate and fun atmosphere for their wedding day. On a tight budget, Tim's parent's backyard became the perfect venue. It was transformed into a tropical paradise by bringing in sand, umbrellas and imported flowers from Hawaii.

All photos courtesy of Brian Basche

Writing Away Book Signing

2009-08-09T15:37:00.000-07:00

In June my very good friend Lavinia Spalding launched her book Writing Away, A Creative Guide to Awakening the Journal-Writing Traveler. It was my privilege to host her book signing at the Wine Loft.

Lavinia also wrote With a Measure of Grace: The Stories and Recipes of a Small Town Restaurant,

The author!

Making Porta Potties More Appealing for Your Outdoor Event!

2009-07-20T13:00:00.000-07:00

An outdoor event can be challenging and the need for porta potties a must! I feel it is important to make your guests as comfortable as possible by "jazzing up" the porta potties by adding a table with flowers, hand sanitizer, mints, lotion, a mirror, and cute signage. There are a few options out there, the standard porta potty, you can also rent sinks and if you have more of a budget a porta potty trailer which feels more like a traditional restroom with sink and mirrors included.
Below are few photos of events I have staged.

This is an example of the trailer that my friend Cameron shot, I did not stage this event but love this trailer!!

Custom Save the Date & Invites

2009-07-20T11:43:00.001-07:00

Invitations and Save the Date Cards are an important part of setting the mood for your day. There are thousands of styles to choose from out there. Here is a custom design from Maypop Productions and Higher Ground Communications. Maypop designed the card and Higher Ground contributed the text.

Leah & Brian- Escalante, Utah

2009-07-01T15:06:00.000-07:00

Wedding Day Vendors:

Venue: Private Residence, Escalante, Utah

Photographer: Chris Richards

Flowers: Jodi Bloom, Mountain Floral

Caterer: Escalante Outfitters

Cake: Hell's Backbone Grill

I was honored to be a part of Leah & Brian's day. They were married on Leah's parent's property in Escalante, Utah and had their reception in a pole barn on an adjacent property. This 3 day event included a bon-fire, hoedown, brunch and of course the main event and reception.

Outdoor weddings are my favorite! The possibilities are endless! For this event we incorporated Leah & Brian's love of the outdoors, the west, color and textures to create a beautiful and unique space in a harsh desert environment. Leah knew exactly how she wanted her day to be and gave me the tools I needed to create an elegant yet rustic space with the spectacular Escalante Grand Stair Case as a backdrop. What an amazing place to have a wedding!

All of the amazing photographs are courtesy of Chris Richards.

Below are some of my favorite images from the day!

Leah had her grandmother's dress redesigned for her special day.

Henry didn't want to miss out on any of the fun!

The cake was made by Jen Castle, chef-owner, Hell's Back Bone Grill in Boulder, Utah

Thank you Leah & Brian for letting me be a part of such an amazing weekend!

Sedona Creekside Inn Wedding

2008-11-01T18:22:00.000-07:00

Amber and Mark were married at the Sedona Creekside Inn in October. Amber contacted me as she was overwhelmed with wedding details. She wanted her wedding to reflect her and Mark's love of the outdoors, the Colorado River and to honor Amber's mom who tragically passed away. Amber and Mark were wonderful to work with; sweet, sentimental and fun! It is always a privilege to be part of someone's wedding, and this was no exception. Here are some of my favorite images taken by Melissa Dunstan Photography. Thank you for giving me this opportunity Amber and Mark!

The couple chose Tiffany Blue and chocolate brown linens. All rentals are from Tri Rentals The place setttings also doubled as wine glass markers. Caterer is Main Street Catering

This wind chime was hung in honor of her mom at the ceremony and at their sweetheart table at the reception.

Amber and Mark had a collection of photographs from their childhood and from their life together. I thought it would be nice to display them in the trees as guests entered the reception area.

Tiger Lillies played an important role in the day; they were Amber's mom's favorite. It was my surprise to Amber as a way she could have her mother there.

Amber made this cocktail bar menu with recycled corks.