Thursday, October 29, 2015

"How He Asked"- My Engagement Story- Maddy & Jeremy

Photo By: Elizabeth Stevenson


Photo By: Elizabeth Stevenson

THE BEGINNING
~~
I started working at McDonald's in October of 2012. Jeremy had already been working there for quite some time. He was very quiet and shy which of course made me interested in trying to get to know him. When I started working there I was seeing someone but that soon ended and Jeremy did not let but a week pass before he started to open up to me and get to know me. We joked around all the time at work and quickly began hanging out outside of work. March 26, 2013 Jeremy met my parents and took me to see Identity Theft, where he asked me to be his girlfriend, and the rest is history.

Photo By: Elizabeth Stevenson

"WILL YOU..."
~~
Disney is like a HUGE deal to me. We went to celebrate our first year anniversary in 2014 and it has basically all I had been able to talk about since. Around Christmas time of 2014 my sister-in-law (who works for Disney Cruise line) asked Jeremy and I if we would like to come watch the kids for a day and then she would get us into a park the next day. Well of course I said yes! Not only did I get to hang out with some of my favorite kids but then I got to go to my favorite place with my favorite man. (Yes,that is a lot of favorites). So January 23, 2015 Jeremy met me at my apartment after I got off work and we headed up to Orlando. On the way up we talked about getting married, just like we have many times before, and I got the same "I just want to be in school" answer as always. But I respected that and I trusted God had an awesome plan. In all honesty I thought "He is insane for not taking this opportunity, its Disney, its the happiest place in the world", but I didn't want to ruin this trip so I forgot about it and just enjoyed our time. 

Photo By: Elizabeth Stevenson

Photo By: Elizabeth Stevenson

All day Saturday I saw Jeremy on his phone more than usual but again I thought I was just reading into things so I ignored it. I woke up Sunday morning, more than ready for this day to begin, not knowing it would be one of the most important days of my life. I got all of my Little Mermaid get-up on and we headed out. We got there as early as possible, Katie and Allegra came along so we could all ride the Mine Train together, it was all of our first times. After the ride Katie and Allegra left to ride Space Mountain and then they were "leaving". The morning seemed to go on forever, which was a good thing because little did I know the rest of the day would fly. I have to be honest I still had a little hope that he would pop the question, but he had me leading the way the whole time so I again brushed it off and enjoyed my time, he seemed relaxed and acting like it was just any other day.

Photo By: Elizabeth Stevenson

Okay, let me get to the good part...
We had lunch and then I wanted to go look at one of the shops up towards the front, so we headed up that way. This shop has absolutely everything Disney and I could easily spend on hour in it. About five minutes after going in Jeremy told me he NEEDED to throw away his drink NOW. So of course I was like "you can wait" and he argued that he had to do it right then. So I was like okay...? and we headed out the store to throw away the drink. He then said, since we are already out of there why don't we go take a picture near the castle (which we both wanted to do because our last pictures weren't very good). So we headed up there and we started getting super close and I told him we were getting too close but he insisted we go right up to the castle and I didn't think it was worth a fight so I just went along with it. We were about 10 yards from the castle and I look over and next thing I know I'm asking him why my mom is there. He insists it isn't her but I knew it was. He kept pulling me along trying to block me from seeing her, but I knew something was up.

Photo By: Elizabeth Stevenson

This part is kind of fuzzy but next thing I know Jeremy is down on one knee holding out the most gorgeous ring asking me to marry him. All I remember hearing was "Will you.." and he started to look like he was going to pass out so I grabbed him and held him and at that moment, though we were surrounded by hundreds of people, it felt like it was just me and him. In come my parents, his parents, and my sister-in-law and niece who never left the park apparently. Later that day he told me what he planned on saying to me and we spent the day with out parents riding rides and enjoying the shows. It was beyond magical and now January 25 with always be a date near and dear to my heart.

Photo By: Elizabeth Stevenson

I am beyond excited to be working with Madalynn & Jeremy on their upcoming wedding!!
Wedding Wishes,
Marie  












Monday, October 26, 2015

Vendor Of The Week- Dion Photography- Free 8 x 8 Photo Book- Read how...

Hello Readers- hope you all had a fabulous weekend!!  Not all of us could 'picture' working together with their significant other, but his husband and wife photography team takes pride in their work and has fun!!  With their various affordable wedding packages and diverse photography & editing style- This weeks Vendor of the Week is Chad & Rachel Dion of Dion Photography.  I sat down to chat with Chad to learn more about their photography style.


How did you get started as a photographer:
  I would attend car shows with my father every since I was young.  Back then I was taking shots of the cars all lined up and mastering the different angles to get the perfect shot.   At 19, I started shooting with a digital camera.  I was actually in Automotive School and did some photography on the side and realized that's where my passion was.  I taught myself everything I know now through reading various books on lighting, editing and so on. 


How many years has Dion Photography been in business:
I have been doing photography now full time for the last 13 years.    Over the course of the last 10 years we have done over 300 weddings.  


What types of photography services do you offer:
Weddings, Portraits, Head Shots, Sports, Modeling, Senior photos, Family, Fantasy, Aerial and Full Professional Video Service.  We also have a photo station (similar to a photo booth- but better!)


Tell me a little about your wedding packages:
We have an array of packages to fit each clients specific needs.  Packages range from $650-$2500 depending on number of photographers, photo books and photo booth options.   We make our packages affordable so every Bride & Groom gets the photos they deserves on their wedding day.


What type of cameras and equipment do you use:
Everything is Canon- Nothing but the best!  We are also members of the Canon Professional Services.

For editing what programs do you use:
Full Adobe Suite


What sets you apart from other photographers:
We are all about having fun!!  We definitely have a niche in the Fantasy photography area.  We enjoy doing specialty shoots such as Star Wars, Medieval & Fairies.  We also do short film competitions and every year produce the Florida Girls Calendar.


Has your work earn any awards:
We have won several awards at the Florida Film Network.  For the last 3 years we have come home with awards in areas such as Best Actor, Best Costume, Best Hero, Best Special Effects and Best Action Sequence.  We also earn 2nd place overall.


Where has your work been featured:
We have had films featured on Indy Mogul.  We have also had our work published in Super Chevy, Heavy Throttle, National Corgi Charity Relief, The Englewood Benevolent Fund and The Charlotte Fire MDA Foundation Calendar.


How can you be reached:
Studio Location- 517 Paul Morris Drive- Unit C3, Englewood, FL 34223
(Highly recommend to call first to schedule an appointment as we might be on location)
Phone- 941-416-6231


Would you like to offer a promotion for our readers:
We would like to offer a FREE 8 x 8 Photo Book to all NEW BOOKINGS* from 10.26.15 thru 11.15.15.  Just mention PROMO CODE- Free8x8blog



Special thank you to Chad & Rachel for their time and generous offer for our readers- Call them today!!

Wedding Wishes,
Marie



* Some Exclusions may apply.  Contact Dion Photography for more details.  All statements/opinions/photos above are that of Chad Dion at Dion Photography.  Facebook/Twitter/Constant Contact/Blogspot is in no way affiliated with the contest/giveaway.  Live Love Breathe Weddings did not benefit monetarily from this blog post. 















Wednesday, October 21, 2015

Wedding Trend Alert: Ribbons, Bows, Bells & Whistles



https://www.pinterest.com/pin/464715255271699700/


OK, so there is no bells and whistles just gorgeous bows and ribbons- long, flowing, opulent ribbons.  From bright colors to bold patterns, From satin to chiffon to sheer.  Ribbons have wrapped their way back into our hearts and we are seeing them featured all over the bridal sphere.  How about a special treat for your bridesmaids and have their initial embroidered onto a personalized ribbon?  Perhaps have your new monogram highlighted on your bridal bouquet ribbon.

http://www.stylemepretty.com/vault/image/1025478

Talk about making a statement!! Hello, gorgeous black and white striped ribbon!!  The ribbons just pop making all the other colors and tones pop as well!! 

http://snippetandink.com/fort-mason-center-weddinh

Talk about not breaking the bank and creating a one of a kind backdrop for your ceremony.  Have it transitioned later to be a fun backdrop for your photo booth!    

http://burnettsboards.com/2013/12/powder-blue-white-wedding/

Look at that velvet ribbon.  So soft and smooth- I love it!!!   

http://weddbook.com/media/2062286/peach-pastels-ribbon-ladies-wedding-bouquets-and-a-gentlemans-boutonnieres-pinterest
Pile those ribbons on.  I say the more the merrier!  Combine the lace with the satin with the sheer!!

http://lovetheschultzes.com/
What a spectacular send off... ribbon wands create a fun motion where sparklers aren't allowed.  Imagine if the above photo had pops of fun colors. 

http://www.stylemepretty.com/little-black-book-blog/2015/02/06/elegant-wedding-at-saddle-cycle-club/

What a gorgeous way to highlight the back row of chairs at an outdoor venue.  These ribbons created a soft romantic look to the otherwise rather sterile white chair. 

https://www.pinterest.com/explore/ribbon-wedding/

Gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous!!  All those ribbons are so boho chic.


http://www.weddingomania.com/40-coolest-ribbon-wedding-decor-and-style-ideas/pictures/11896/

Here is a breakdown of the different ribbon types courtesy of www.wisegeek.com

Acetate Ribbons are stiffer, with a satin-finish, and are often used for floral arrangements, pew bows, and packaging.

Chiffon, organdy and organza are varieties of very light weight, open weave variety commonly referred to as “sheers.”

Curling ribbons are coated or crimped so that when pulled against a sharp edge, like that of a scissors, the strand acquires a corkscrew aspect.

Grosgrain Ribbons are a durable yet supple woven type. The characteristic crosswise ribs give grosgrain enough body for a crisp appearance.

Iridescent ribbons have a pearl-like finish revealing changeable colors depending on the light or the angle of view.

Jacquard is a type of weave used to produce pictorial effects. The term sometimes refers to ribbons with embroidery on them. Both embroidered and the true Jacquard ribbons have pronounced “right” and “wrong” sides.

Moiré Ribbons have a rippled or “watermark” appearance.

Ombre describes those with coloring that transitions from one hue to another.

Poly ribbon, made from polypropylene, is typically very shiny and can be made waterproof for outdoor use.

Satin Ribbons have a very smooth, shiny finish. They may be single-faced, which is shiny on one side and dull on the other; or double-faced, which is shiny on both sides.

Taffeta Ribbons are made of lightweight fabric, which may or may not be translucent. The ends tend to fray easily, so it is recommended they be cut on the bias, or at an angle, rather than straight across.

Velvet Ribbons have a tight weave and a low cut pile surface — the velvety side — with a plain underside. They require particular care so that the plush surface does not get flattened and shiny.

Wired Ribbons have fine wires placed in the selvage edges so that, once placed, the arrangement keeps its shape.

~~~ 
Ribbons can accent just about any part of your wedding day.   All you do it yourself individuals- you will be all over this 2016 wedding trend.

Wedding Wishes,
Marie
Live Love Breathe Weddings
Wedding Planner Extraordinaire
www.livelovebreatheweddings.com 







Monday, October 19, 2015

12 Perfect Southwest Florida Rustic Venues




Looking for the perfect rustic wedding venue in Southwest Florida.  Here is a list of 12 extraordinary rustic/barn venues located in Punta Gorda, Fort Myers, Arcadia, Venice, Sarasota, Bradenton, Parrish and Palmetto, Florida.   I sincerely hope this list expedites your search for the perfect rustic wedding venue.    Keep in mind- create a spectacular country chic wedding can be a tricky process in a blank barn in a remote location.  Call me to discuss  planning and coordination packages to make your sweet southern wedding look effortless.

Wedding Wishes,
-M


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Cypress M. Ranch

https://www.facebook.com/cypressmranchwesternweddingsandspecialevents
43650 Bermont Road
Punta Gorda, FL 33982
(239) 872-4726
cypressmranch@gmail.com

https://www.facebook.com/cypressmranchwesternweddingsandspecialevents
Cypress M. Ranch is the perfect setting for your dream western wedding or any special events.  We are nestled in the midst of old Florida beauty with cypress tress & flowing creek yet centrally located to Punta Gorda, Sarasota, Ft Myers & Naples.
(Source: http://www.cypressmranch.com)

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The Barn at Chapel Creek

https://www.facebook.com/ChapelCreekWeddings
3384 Kennedy Drive
Venice, FL 
941-321-7636
info@chapelcreekevents.com

https://www.facebook.com/ChapelCreekWeddings
More than just a venue, we are a team of professionals providing all-inclusive services to fulfill every aspect of your wedding day vision.  Our packages are offered in three levels for you to best select the package that meets your expectations and budget.
(Source: http://chapelcreekevents.com)

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White Horse Ranch

https://www.facebook.com/whitehorseranchfl
39990 Cook Brown Road
Punta Gorda, Florida
(239) 370-3730


White Horse is an outdoor wedding venue located comfortably between Fort Myers and Punta Gorda, FL.  This refined rustic ranch offers weather shielded structures to accommodate up to 200+ for a wedding ceremony & reception at one location so that you can paint your dream day picture exactly the way that YOU have dreamed it!
(Source: http://thebigwhitehorse.com)
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The Rustic Barn at Buckingham Farms

https://www.facebook.com/therusticbarn1
12931 Orange River Blvd
Fort Myers, FL 33905
(239) 206-2303
anna@buckinghamfarms.com

https://www.facebook.com/therusticbarn1

It’s called the great outdoors for a reason. Discover why at The Rustic Barn at Buckingham Farms. Country charm and urban sophistication mingle beautifully here to create an exceptional dining experience you won’t find anywhere else. We offer 2,000 square feet of open-air options to make your special occasions an exceptional event in an elegant, easy-going setting with all the comforts of home.
(Source: http://buckingham-farms.com/options)

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The Oaks at Windsong


http://theoaksatwindsong.com/
13010 Fruitville Road
Sarasota, Fl 34240
941.371.2443

http://theoaksatwindsong.com/

Located in beautiful Sarasota, Fl, The Oaks at Windsong is extremely well suited for large parties, weddings, reunions, special corporate events and charitable galas. Our reflection pond is as popular as any wedding site in the area. One of two outdoor wedding locations that we offer, this reflection pond gives your party a secluded and elegant feel.   You may use this wonderful site for an intimate dinner for two at the reflection pool illuminated by some of the most breathtaking sunsets you can imagine, or plan a unique corporate event.  
(Source: http://theoaksatwindsong.com/about-us)

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Crowley Museum & Nature Center


http://crowleyfl.org/2011/08/rentals/
16405 Myakka Road
Sarasota, FL 34240
(941) 322-1000
info@crowleyfl.org

http://crowleyfl.org/2011/08/rentals/
Crowley is a beautiful and unique site for your special day.  The porch of the historic Tatum House is a favorite site for rustic wedding ceremonies.
(Source: http://crowleyfl.org/2011/08/rentals)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Oaks of Devonaire

http://www.floridabarnweddings.com/
1423 SE County Road 760A
Arcadia, FL 32466
(863) 990-0605

http://www.floridabarnweddings.com/
For a unique and memorable experience for you and your guests, we invite you to Oaks of Devonaire.  Set amid the rustic beauty of majestic oaks and a beautiful Florida country landscape.  Our classic "Red Barn" offers you a classic country setting with modern amenities.  We specialize in wedding ceremonies, but can also accommodate many other types of events.  With the manicured gardens and country side your events photos will make memories last a lifetime.  We would love to share your special event with you.  
(Source: http://www.floridabarnweddings.com/home.html)

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Mixon's Fruit Farms

http://www.mustdo.com/articles/tour-the-groves-and-sample-the-produce-at-mixon-fruit-farms/
2525 27th Street East
Bradenton, FL 34208
(941) 748-5829 or (800) 608-2525
events@mixon.com

http://weddingsinthegrove.com/wedding-reception/
"Mixon's In The Grove" is a perfect setting for a Florida garden wedding!  Getting married under the stars is romantic with a beautiful landscaped koi pond and rock waterfall backdrop to complete the beautiful wedding day picture.  We have many different facilities to offer for weddings- from very private, small weddings, indoor, to large formal weddings.
(Source: http://weddingsinthegrove.com/wedding-ceremony)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Manatee Village Historical Park

www.livelovebreatheweddings.com/wedding-planning.html
1404 Manatee Ave East
Bradenton, FL 34208
(941) 749-7165

www.livelovebreatheweddings.com/wedding-planning.html
Nestled under a canopy of native oak trees, this lovely 1887 church provides a romantic setting for your wedding. Guests can stroll along brick paths, relax in the gazebo, and get a feel for a by-gone era. The Manatee Village Historical Park provides an aura of elegance that will be long remembered and treasured. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Bakers Ranch


http://www.bakersranch.com/reception-area-ranch-house-gallery/
5015 Fort Hamer Road
Parrish, FL 34219
(941)776-1460
myevent@bakersranch.com

http://www.bakersranch.com/reception-area-ranch-house-gallery/
Nestled amid the majestic oaks of Parrish, Florida rests a beautiful retreat brimming with rustic elegance and inspired by 16th century Tudor-style architecture.  Bakers Ranch is the perfect setting for your one-of-a-kind event including weddings, anniversaries, milestone birthdays and corporate Galas.  It's elegant simplicity and country charm allows for a wide variety of stylized wedding ceremonies and wedding reception backdrops.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Heartwood Weddings

http://www.heartwoodweddings.com/
17507 Waterline Road
Bradenton, FL 34212
(941) 745-5719

http://www.heartwoodweddings.com/
Imagine being married while surrounded by verdant trees, blooming flowers, award winning gardens and the space to express yourself fully on your special day.  Heartwood is unlike any other venue- artful nature setting the stage for romance, intimacy and inspiration for your special day.  With flexible options and easy going management, your event can unfold with minimum stress or frustration.  Best of all, you can do it "your way".  We are designed for intimate weddings of 125 or less.  Heartwood Weddings is the perfect setting for celebrating heartfelt connections between lovers, friends, family and the beauty of nature.
(Source: http://www.heartwoodweddings.com)

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Bella Luna Barn

https://www.facebook.com/BellaLunaBarn/photos_stream

4315 89th Street East
Palmetto, FL 34221
941-479-0677
941-812-9101

https://www.facebook.com/BellaLunaBarn/photos_stream
Bella Luna Barn is a 2400 sq.ft. open pole barn with electricity, restroom facilities, and stage and holds a maximum of 120-130 people.
(Source: https://www.facebook.com/BellaLunaBarn/info?tab=overview)

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