Wedding Planning - Custom Stationery

Some samples

2010-04-27T15:09:00.011-06:00

Changes...

2010-04-04T22:34:00.007-06:00

I have a feeling that I am going to start this post, and then let it sit awhile before I feel ready to press "publish".

I never imagined this day, what it would look like or when (if ever) it would come. I have recently decided that it was time to "close the doors" of Noteworthy Designs. Due to some personal reasons for myself and for my family, this is the right decision at this time. This wasn't an easy decision, but one that felt right as soon as it was made.

I have appreciated getting to know all of my clients and vendors that I have worked with over the years. That truly was a highlight for me. Being a part of a couples "happiest day" whether through planning or doing their stationery. I loved getting to know the couple, their love for one another and being creative with them. Meeting others in the wedding industry meant a lot to me. Seeing their businesses grow, change and develop was both encouraging and a delight to watch.

So whether you are a past client reading, a bride looking for ideas, a vendor that I have worked with or family & friends who supported me, thank you. Thank you for the support, the talks, the encouragement, ideas and your kindness.

I am looking forward to what lies ahead personally and have no regrets with Noteworthy Designs.

With thankfulness to each and every single one of you,

Laura

Kids or No Kids

2010-03-17T09:00:00.002-06:00

Many couples opt to have no children at their wedding. And that is perfectly fine. Many clients ask how to make that clear with their stationery.

While it isn't proper ettiquette to write the clear message right on your invite, there are several ways to make your decision known.

First off, guests should hopefully know that who is invited is who is listed on the envelope. Whether you are doing a double envelope or not, the outer envelope should clearly be addressed to who is actually invited

ie. Mr. & Mrs. Robert Smith or The Smith Family

But sometimes, couples don't think that will be enough for their guests to get the message. Some write, "Adult only reception"

Finally, the response card also serves as a clue for guests as to who is invited. Some couples opt to write

We have reserved _______ seats for you

And then they write on each RSVP card to how many seats are reserved.

Really, these rules don't just apply to kids who aren't invited, but also those unmarried friends that you prefer to come solo rather than with a date who is in a committed relationship.

P.S Guests over the age of 18 should receive their own invite, whether they live at home or have moved out.

Nerdy Invite

2010-03-14T20:38:00.004-06:00

What is memorable about a wedding these days?! Making it personal! Tkaing something unique and fun about you as a couple and infusing it into your wedding. Take a look at this digital invite. Nerdy? Sure! Creative? Definitely! Truly reflective of the couple? 100%

Love it! You can either play the game as the groom or as the bride! So fun.

Naturally Chic

2009-12-23T22:00:00.005-07:00

I was so thrilled to get the mail today. I love mail at this time of year with all the Christmas cards, letters and family photos that come rolling in. Today I got an envelope thicker than most and couldn't wait to open it. Sharon, from Naturally Chic sent me the most amazing gift.

Sharon is amazingly talented and engraving on wood is one of her specialties. When my daughter was born, she made her a beautiful keepsake box with her name and birthdate on it. We use it to keep cards my daughter has been given. Today, we received a precious ornament, made by Sharon with a photo of my baby girl on it. It is truly a precious keepsake that we will treasure forever. I was just talking with a friend today about wanting to buy Grace a "First Christmas" ornament - and this one is better than anything I would have found.
Thank you, Sharon for being so thoughtful and thinking of us this holiday season. You are a great friend, inspiration and colleague in the wedding industry. Naturally Chic is going to go great places because of who you are and what you can bring to other people's lives. I cannot wait to see your website go live in 2010 and wish you all the best. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

I am sorry the photo doesn't do it justice - I have to try again in the daytime. I was just so excited to share it with all of you!

Photo Walk

2009-12-07T22:55:00.004-07:00

Back in September, I joined Scott & Jaime from Scott Gage Photography to walk some streets in Calgary taking photos. This photo walk was just that - walk and take photos. You don't have to even know what you were doing (I sure didn't!). It was so fun to see the photos that the other participants took and submitted to Scott to post on the Calgary Photo Walk blog.

It is amazing to see the different points of view, items and focal points that each person took a photo of. We were challenged to take an abstract photo as well. It was a great time, a chance to learn and challenge yourself if you are at all interested in photography.

Here is one of my photos from the first Calgary Photo Walk. Watch the Calgary Photo Walk for news on upcoming walks! And check out Scott & Jaime's site too - they do awesome work and are a great couple to work with!

Early Christmas

2009-11-14T21:37:00.002-07:00

BRIDES & GROOMS...My friend, Terra Law at Inspired Occasions is having a fabulous sale that you just can't pass up! Terra & her staff are ah-mazing at what they do...so go check out what she is offering. I would.

Great Surprise

2009-11-13T18:22:00.003-07:00

Imagine our surprise while looking through Google Reader that Noteworthy Designs was given a nice spot on Wishahmon's blog. A while back we posted about Monica and her great work here. She has great talent and does great floral and decorating design work. Thanks Monica & Wishahmon!

And because every post deserves some sort of eye candy... just a simple Thank You note perfect for those men in your life.

Baby Thank You's

2009-10-01T22:08:00.004-06:00

We are currently working with a client on doing some baby announcements for her beautiful baby girl. Photos to come soon! I love them - simple, elegant and chic. The new mom and dad also want some Thank You cards to send out (so wise!), so here are a couple we designed for them. You will notice the one is using "boy" colors, but when the samples were created...we were still awaiting the news on if he/ she would like pink or green best.

Christmas Catalogue

2009-09-24T20:31:00.012-06:00

This year, Noteworthy Designs has made it easier than ever to get your Christmas cards, gifts and decor ready in plenty of time to enjoy the holidays. Over the next while, we will be showcasing some products that are available to order. Let's start with some options for Christmas Greeting Cards. To make it easy and adjustable to any size of recipient list, just let us know how many you would like. Minimum is 5 and maximum is unlimited. Greeting cards are $3.00 and perfect for adding a personal touch to our list this year. Who doesn't love receiving a handmade card in the mail? Contact us for more details or to place your order.

Stay tuned for ideas on home decor...coming up!

Update

2009-09-05T10:11:00.006-06:00

Just because I've been awful at blogging, doesn't mean lots hasn't been going on! I haven't done an "official" post, but our last 3 months have been amazingly different. Back in May, we welcomed our new baby girl into our family and haven't been more happy since. She is a great baby and is started to do so much. Love her!

Noteworthy Designs is still in full swing and still taking clients to do unique custom stationery with. For weddings, greeting card, baby announcements (have a few to show you soon!), thank you cards....and of course, Christmas Cards! We have some news to launch about those soon!

For now, here is a booklet wedding invitation that we did recently. It included pages and photos about the couple, how they met, the wedding and important people in their life. The mother-of-the-bride had these done and worded it perfectly - like mini scrapbooks of memories. All about making memories! We also created custom Thank You cards that coordinated perfectly.

Beloved Fotos

2009-08-20T20:35:00.009-06:00

The other day, I stumbled across a friend's new business venture. I haven't seen Shannon since we were in our friends wedding party together, so didn't know what she was up to. I was giddy with excitement (seriously - I was thinking about what I saw on her blog all night) and had to share with all of you.

Shannon is a photographer, but I think you will sense from her site (newly launched, I might add) and her blog that she is more than that. Her personality shines through in her writing and I am certain that any photo shoot with Beloved Fotos would be memorable and fun.

Check out her website at www.belovedfotos.com and her blog here to get to know Shannon and Beloved Fotos more.

And you HAVE to see this project she is working on...I LOVE the idea and wish I would have thought of something like that for my first baby. You won't be disappointed. Check it out here.

Here is some of her work, borrowed from her blog.

photo courtesy of www.belovedfotos.com

photo courtesy of www.belovedfotos.com

photo courtesy of www.belovedfotos.com

Details!

2009-05-06T08:46:00.006-06:00

This morning, while checking my google reader, I came across a post that I really like. Aletha VanderMass from Pearl Events in Michigan posted about Three Wedding Details Not to Miss.

- Ceremony Programs
- Assigned seating
- Nice thank you notes

And guess what...Noteworthy Designs can help you with all three! Check out her blog for some information.

photo courtesy of www.flarephotography.com

photo courtesy of Noteworthy Designs

photo courtesy of www.flarephotography.com

wishahmon

2009-04-21T21:56:00.000-06:00

I had the privilege of meeting with a great Wedding Decorator a couple weeks ago. She is a fellow WPIC (Wedding Planners Institute of Canada) graduate and owns Wishahmon.

"Wishamon stives to assist couples in creating a personalized wedding; saving time; and relieving wedding-related stress" - from their website 'Why Us'

Monica is friendly and has some great ideas. From what I could tell, I think she would do a fabulous job really (I mean, really!) listening to what you are saying and be able to pull your decorating vision from that. Cause really, 'classy' wedding means all sorts of things to different people. The photos and work I have seen are beautiful and creative. It is obvious she is a hard worker!

Check out some photos from one of her latest weddings.

What I Love

2009-04-17T09:33:00.005-06:00

Andrea and I had a great client follow up meeting the other night. I love these clients - they are fun, super nice and are going to have a lovely fall wedding. My favorite part of doing stationery is seeing people's reactions to them...and these guys did not let me down! Sent chills up and down Andrea and my backs. The bride said something that I love...

This couple came to me with an idea they had, but the thought of creating the entire thing, gathering the supplies, etc was too overwhelming. Noteworthy Designs is so custom, we were totally willing to work with them. As we showed them the sample last night, she said she loved that they were a part of the design process and making choices. They didn't just look through a book and pick which sample number they liked amongst many. She was pleased to be able to tweak what she wanted, colors, wording, layout, etc...and that was music to our ears. I'm looking forward to seeing your reactions when you see your finished stationery! Here is a sneak peek at what we are working on.

Sneak Peek

2009-04-15T08:41:00.004-06:00

We have been very busy with some client orders, and although they are not done yet - thought we would give you a little sneak peek of a couple of the projects we've been working on! I need to get a few more pics - will post Sneak Peek 2 soon.

New Designer on the Block

2009-03-27T09:23:00.005-06:00

As mentioned before on our blog, we have some changes coming up and getting ready to be announced. One of those is adding a fabulous designer to our team. Meet Andrea Bye.

Andrea has been a great friend for years (we just discovered yesterday its been about 13 years). She has been an encouragement to me and Noteworthy Designs throughout the whole process - from the initial brainstorming sessions, to moving to and from Medicine Hat to now - where we currently are at. Andrea is kind and sensitive and super creative. I am so excited to be working on projects with her and using her talents and skills.

Noteworthy Designs welcomes Andrea to our team with open arms. We got together yesterday for a business meeting...including her photo shoot. You can get to know Andrea a little more on our website as well.

A couple of "outtakes" from our session. Sorry, Andrea, I couldn't resist.

Beautiful Bride

2009-03-24T17:28:00.001-06:00

Check out this bridal gown sale in Calgary:

"Beautiful Bride" Bridal Boutique is having a Spring Sample Sale on April 2, 2009 from 11:00am-8:00pm at their Macleod Trail location. If you have not already purchased your dress this is the perfect time to start looking. They will be marking down a lot of their sample dresses, making in store draws and offering incentives for ordering new gowns and ordering from their new couture line Martina Liana. There will be food and beverages on hand and it should be a great day!

6700 Macleod Tr SE
www.beautifulbride.ca

Canada's Superstore

2009-03-23T21:38:00.002-06:00

Yesterday, my husband and I ventured out in the snow (yes - Calgary got a huge snow fall on the weekend after several days of actually nice weather) and slush to The Real Canadian Superstore. I gotta say...I love that store. Especially the newer or renovated stores.

There is so much there and I love the stuff for the home, their clothing line and all the "fun stuff" (i.e. not the grocery shopping part - that's never my favorite). As we were walking around I was reminded what a great store it is for wedding shopping as well.

Sometimes they have great deals on things in that back home section - vases, candles, other decor items. Their website isn't very helpful, so no photos to share unfortunately. Just keep it in mind when you are looking for miscellaneous wedding or party supplies and decor.

That's all. Just had to share!

Unique Table Numbers

2009-03-16T12:00:00.005-06:00

I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE unique and special elements in a wedding. One of my favorite ways in stationery to do this is with the table numbers for the reception. Brainstorming with clients on what is special, unique, meaningful to them is such a joy.

While consulting on a wedding, it was obvious to me how important this couples dogs are to them. I suggested incorporating them into their table numbers (can be elegant, fun and memorable) and the bride loved that idea.

What is something that stands out in your relationship or personalities that you can incorporate into your table numbers?

photo courtesy of theknot.com. "Pictures of the couple during recent trips (Tokyo, Vancouver, etc.) served as the table cards. Each card sat on a bed of salmon and pomegranate rose petals surrounded by three pillar candles."

photo courtesy of theknot.com. "The bride drew table numbers on white-framed chalkboards that were propped up against the mason jars. Red pails were also on hand to collect the shells from lobsters (the main course!)."

Consults

2009-03-15T15:32:00.002-06:00

I thought I would touch on what is involved in a Noteworthy Designs Consult. When possible, I enjoy meeting with my clients face to face at least once. It is a great time for me to get to know the clients, their interests and desires in regards to their stationery. In addition, they can get to know me as I believe that connection is key when designing something so custom.

Top Ten Things to Know for a Noteworthy Designs Consult

1) It is a free initial meeting so that the client and designer can meet

2) Expect to see samples, if you would like

3) Come bearing gifts...I mean samples of anything you have planned so far if your stationery is for an event. If you have color swatches of fabric, dishes, decor or other elements in your wedding, it is great to bring those.

4) Be prepared to talk colors, textures, design elements, all things to do with your unique paper products. And if you aren't sure - no problem. Our samples can help you to decide.

5) As we are based out of our home, we do the initial meetings at a coffee shop, etc and we are willing to travel to one near you.

6) It is a no obligation consult. If you don't think it will be a good fit for you, no problem.

7) Don't be scared if you don't know what vellum, grosgrain ribbon or the difference between an escort card and a seating card is. We will help you through it all!

8) We pride ourselves on doing things custom. If you don't see something you want, just ask.

9) Feel free to bring 1 or 2 people along with you to the consult.

10) Be prepared to have fun and enjoy the process!

A Focus on Stationery

2009-03-07T22:24:00.007-07:00

As mentioned in our last post, Noteworthy Designs is in the process of making some changes. February was a busy month for us as we have been working on and implementing the new focus for our company.

photo courtesy of www.flarephotography.ca

Being apart of our clients special wedding day has been a joy and privilege to have. Its a honor to work with a couple on such an important day - from booking a venue, to picking out the perfect bouquets and all the running around on their day of wedding is what I have been able to call my "job".

But in all honesty, my favorite part about doing wedding planning is working with the couple. Getting to know them. Finding out what really makes them tick, what made them fall in love and walking through the process of wedding planning with them. The fact that it pours into my desire to be creative and need to be organized never hurts any either.

With changing cities, we have decided to also change our outlook for Noteworthy Designs. As you might notice on our website, Wedding Coordinating services have been removed. This has been a hard, long and emotional decision. I am going to miss weddings. Miss working with great vendors. Miss the day of excitement.

photo courtesy of www.madchenstudios.com. stationery courtesy of www.noteworthydesigns.ca

However, I do get to keep doing the other part of Noteworthy Designs that I love...custom stationery. You see, the best part is it sticks with what I love about working with couples. I still get to know them in our consults (as it is imperative to the custom design process). I still get to find out what makes them tick to try and make the stationery as unique and personal to the couple (after all, the more personal the wedding, the more memorable it will be for all). And I still get to be a part of the wedding planning process (plus have lots of knowledge on weddings to share). I see it as a win-win.

So bare with us as we continue to share with you our hopes, dreams and changes for Noteworthy Designs. In the next few weeks we will share some of the new DIY packages for stationery, introduce you to another one of our designers and who knows what other goodies we will throw in! After all, Noteworthy Designs' mission statement does state:

"We are a company who adapts to our clients needs while staying fresh and trendy in the stationery industry."

Noteworthy's Update

2009-01-29T22:42:00.003-07:00

It's true! Noteworthy Designs has moved. There are lots of changes for us in the near future and one of them has been moving back to Calgary! It was bittersweet - sad to leave Medicine Hat but also glad to be 'home' in Calgary.

Thank you to our Medicine Hat past clients and fabulous vendors that we had the privilege to work with. I appreciated your support and encouragement during our time in Medicine Hat.

Past clients - I do look forward to continuing to hear updates on your lives! If you are ever in Calgary, I do enjoy a coffee catch up!

Past vendors - I will continue to check your blogs (those that have them, of course) and see what is happening with your endeavors as well. I believe it is an exciting time for Medicine Hat's wedding industry and look forward to watching it grow from afar.

Another Noteworthy Designs update is a little more personal. My husband and I are expecting our first child in May. We cannot wait!

photo from duematernity.com. And no, it isn't me in that photo!

With that, things with Noteworthy Designs will be evolving and changing...for the better. Stay tuned for an announcement soon.

Contest for Christmas

2008-12-03T12:00:00.005-07:00

My friend and fellow coordinator, Terra Law from Inspired Occasions is having a great contest on her blog! Seriously check it out - if I was getting married again, I would love to win it! The winner will be fortunate to have 16 customized Out of Town welcome bags (OOT). It is a nice touch to offer your out of town guests - a way to get them excited for your wedding, to thank them for travelling to your wedding and to welcome your guests in style.

The contest is open to residents of Canada and the U.S.A. and closes December 31, 2008 so be sure to get your entry in early. A winner will be selected by Inspired Occasions and announced by January 7, 2009.

To enter send an email to terra@inspiredoccasions.ca. Be sure to write CONTEST in the subject line. Include your wedding date along with a brief description of you and your fiancé, your vision for your upcoming wedding day and why it’s important for you to welcome your guests in style.

Photos taken from Inspired Occasions.

Natasha & Wayne

2008-10-07T13:53:00.009-06:00

A beautiful September day marked the wedding of Natasha & Wayne. It was a beautiful day. Natasha was stunning in her gown, Wayne looked great all dressed up and their kidlets looked so cute in their wedding outfits too.

The ceremony was at the lovely Fifth Avenue United and reception at the fabulous Desert Blume Golf Club. The photographer for the day was Renee Michiel from Flare Photography. I have been looking forward to working with her for so long and it was great! Renee posted a great blog about the wedding here and he re. I borrowed some photos from her (with her permission) and will post more when I get them.

Congratulations Wayne & Natasha. It was a joy working on your wedding with you and sharing in your day.

Stationery all provided by Noteworthy Designs
Wayne designed a great faux mantel to highlight the fireplace. With the monograms, candles and flowers it look phenomenal!
Here is the talented Renee and I at the end of a very long day!

Marina & Bruce

2008-09-08T16:08:00.022-06:00

On a lovely, hot day in July, Noteworthy Designs was a part of the union between Marina & Bruce. They were a lovely couple that we started by doing their invitations and that leaded into a "Day Of" package.

The ceremony and reception were both held at the Shriners Center in Bowness in Calgary right along the river. They couldn't have asked for a better day and the guests were thankful for all the little touches - including bottled water, sunscreen and insect repellent.

I was able to get some photos of their day from their photographer Sarah Khalland. In addition to wedding photography, Sarah owns a fabulous business called "she was stunning". The concept is amazing and Sarah is doing very well! Keep it up! Love women entrepreneurs. Speaking of which, Marina is also an entrepreneur and wanted to support as many other women entrepreneurs (i.e Noteworthy Designs too!) as their wedding vendors. Marina owns Cadbury Banks - a personal shopping and creative gift giving business.

This is Marina and myself just before the ceremony!

Marina and her dad starting to walk down the aisle. Those lovely topiary's were made by a friend and they looked great!

Marina was so happy and looked beautiful!

And Bruce was so proud and handsome!

They preformed a hand binding ceremony and had a great use for the cloth at the reception (see the photo further down).

What a great location with a lovely waterfall in the river. The gazebo was great for such a hot day - the bridal party used it to their advantage!

Married! With rose petals showering them as they walked down the aisle.

Love the mood in this one!

And who can resist loving colored shoes! I love this trend!

I like the sassy-ness of this photo - that is Marina for you!!

Having fun at Bowness Park.
Marina's florals were beautiful and I loved the feathers and the wire twists througout.

The hand binding cloth from the ceremony was filled with messages from their guests to hang in their home.

Very simple, yet effective centrepieces. Marina & Bruce named the tables by places they like to frequent - how unique!

Ummm, any local Calgarian would know where these are from! Crave Cupcakes always taste great.

I have a feeling this may have been the toast to the groom by the best man (his brother). Bruce looks worries and Marina looks like she is soaking it all in!

Marina and her dad had a wonderful dance. I think it is so cute!

Here are Marina and Bruce along with Terra (who assisted me from Inspired Occasions) and myself. Terra was an awesome help and I couldn't have done it without her. We had a lot of fun and I look forward to working with her some more! Check out her blog for some photos of another wedding that we worked together.

Wild Wedding

2008-09-04T18:50:00.002-06:00

On the Sunday of the long weekend, I had the opportunity to assist Terra from Inspired Occasions with one of her weddings. Terra and I know each other through our Wedding Planners Institute of Canada alumni program and have worked together on one of my Noteworthy Designs weddings (which I still will blog about - I just got some great pictures to share!).

Back to the Wild Wedding. Check out Terra's blog for some pictures of the wedding and details. Terra was fabulous to work with and I wouldn't hesitate to refer couples in Calgary to her. She also does great stationery (who wouldn't love a gal who does weddings AND stationery - we are meant to be!). Terra helps me with a surprise for all my brides...but I don't want to give it away! Guess you'll just have to book me...hee hee.

Photo Shoot

2008-09-01T21:27:00.005-06:00

On Friday I had the opportunity to get some photos done for my website. Rachel at Madchen Studios here in Medicine Hat has been doing some product photos for my stationery lines and also did some of myself for my site. I can't wait to see them!! I had a great time seeing her studio setup and chatting with her....until.... I got bit!!

We did our studio shots and then were heading to an outdoor location for a great background. We were all set up ready to go and a bee (or a wasp - I really have no clue and cannot tell the difference) went in Rachel's hair. We swatted it out then it went in mine and got it out right away too. Phew. Or so I thought. Then it bit me. Little bugger. Right on my upper arm on the inside. At first it hurt, but just like getting a needle. There were two stingers in my arm and I could get one out, then used my tweezers (from my wedding emergency kit - see - it always comes in handy!!) to get the other one out. It wasn't as bad as I remember...until later.

The next day I woke up to a great big red ball on my arm. Then as the day progressed - it got bigger (in covering my arm and in swollen-ness). It covered like half my arm and was so itchy. Anyways, it is now going back down (back to the size of Saturday morning) and feeling better (3 days later!). So yes, I felt bad for myself and got my husband too as well.

Here is my favorite part (I hope I can share this part!). Rachel's son came to the outdoor location with us to help hold the reflector (is that what it is called?!?). He informed me that he was getting paid to do this (he is six - did I mention that?? And so super cute!). Then after I got bit, I gave up and said we were done (and none of us wanted to stay around there any longer anyways). He asked his mom (Rachel) "umm, do I still get paid for this?" It was so cute. Loved it. Took a little bit of the pain away!

Can't wait to see Rachel's photos. Check out her blog too - love her work!!

I took some photos of my arm - wanna see? It probably looks quite lame, but it hurt!! And still does. I'll get back to our regular schedule this week - we were in Calgary for a Sunday wedding (great wedding, despite the bad weather - snow, rain and mud!).

The morning after the sting - not too bad.
This was the afternoon the day after the sting - but it got much bigger and wrapped around my arm and was really puffy.

Manners Monday

2008-08-24T11:51:00.003-06:00

Today's question is:

There are some single friends/ family that we are inviting to our wedding. When do I have to allow them to invite a guest/ escort to our wedding? Can I just invite the person who I actually want to have at our wedding?

And the answer is there are a few times that it is etiquette to invite say "Jennifer & Guest". If Jennifer is married or engaged, then yes, you should invite both of them. If Jennifer and the significant other live together, they must be invited. Otherwise, it isn't necessary to invite an "and guest" unless you are able to in numbers and budget - as it is a nice gesture.

Favorite Things Friday

2008-08-22T08:01:00.006-06:00

I was thinking of some of my favorite things that I use all the time and came up with two that I am going to share.

My favorite Starbucks drink - ummm, tall (or grande - depending on the day), 145 degree soy latte. Very tasty, but make sure you get it less hot than normal as soy has a lower rate of burning or something like that.

photo credit: flickr.com

As well, Starbucks has these great customized cards. Have you seen them? I got my husband one and didn't register it right away (the syrup that he has in his drink isn't on the options, and at first I was mad and wouldn't register it, now I am over it and will get it set up right now. What a fun, personalized gift as well - bridal party gifts, thinking-of-you gift for your future spouse, hostess gift - lots of options. I got it for my husband because he cannot ever remember his drink (tall two pump white mocha tazo chai latte) so I figured this would help him out so that I am not the only one that can order.

photo credit: www.okt.de

My other favorite thing is collapsible boxes. My sister got me hooked on mine I think - got them from Home Depot in the organizing section. We use them for groceries (along with our canvas bags) and at Costco - they always come in handy. Or for camping. Transporting things around to weddings, etc - lots of uses. Love them. Obviously (hence the name) they collapse and store away flat and we usually keep them in our car.

Whatever Wednesdays

2008-08-20T18:37:00.004-06:00

So how can I note make an off-wedding-topic post about the Olympics. Wow! I love watching the Olympics and am such a sap. My favorite is probably seeing the footage of the athletes family in the crowds - cheering them on and showing the pride of their family members. Love it. My husband always glances over and says "are you crying again?!". I can't help it.

Can you believe Usain Bolt? Wow! And how exciting to break a world record on his birthday.

Go Canada Go!

photo credit: cbc.ca

Manners Monday

2008-08-18T08:14:00.002-06:00

So this one goes out to all wedding GUESTS! Sometimes I think the guests need more etiquette advice than the couple!

My number one word of advice...RSVP on time and in the manner asked! I have seen many couples and my clients who has provided an RSVP card (including postage, self addressed, etc) and still have to follow up with replies. It doesn't take a guest long to check off yes or no, write their name and sometimes choose what they will eat and then pop it in the mail. Done. Took all of 5 minutes, but saved a ton of time and stress on the couple.

Arrive on time. That one should go without saying, but the couple (and coordinator) has done a fabulous job on getting the timeline right and trying to be on time for their ceremony. There are the times that the bride and maids are all ready to walk down the aisle, but alas, they are still waiting for the late guests who arrived to find a seat.

Read who is invited on the invite. If your invitation is addressed to the Jones Family, for example, then yes, kids are invited. If it is addressed to Mr. & Mrs. Jones - no, the kids are not invited. It is considered bad etiquette if you ask if you can bring your child/ children when it isn't clear on the invite.

This one is overlooked often, but etiquette suggests not bringing your gift to the reception. Ideally, you could have it sent prior to, or better yet, after the wedding. It relieves the stress of who is getting the gifts home. If you are unable to attend the wedding, it is still nice if you sent a gift.

Overall, enjoy the wedding and celebrating the new marriage of the couple! You have been invited to share a very special day with this couple and honor them in their new life together. What a great gift to be a part of!

Favorite Things Friday

2008-08-14T21:04:00.006-06:00

So I was sitting thinking about what I wanted to share with you today for my first Favorite Things Friday - humming and hawing about what great idea should go first and what is one of my favorite things. Well it hit me - what do I spend a great deal of time doing during the day - blog surfing! Not so much anymore that I use google reader (you plug in the blogs you like then it will let you know when it has been updated - no time wasted checking one out only to be disappointed). So here are three of my favs (in no particular order):

Jessica Claire - an awesome wedding photographer based out of Orange County and she is awesome. I love her use of color in the photos - she finds amazing color for backdrops, etc.

The Martha Blog - I don't know what it is about this lady - her blogs make me laugh. She has some beautiful stuff and shares alot of her experiences. And yes, I am a Martha fan.

Oh Happy Day - this blog writer has different tastes then mine, but I love it. She finds beautiful and unique items and you can tell puts some thought into what she wants. I think she spends a lot of time online trying to find great products - she does the leg work for you and you can enjoy the beautiful eye candy. There are plenty more - my blog list is really long. Do you have a blog to share with me? Would love to check it out.

Blog Schedule

2008-08-14T20:46:00.003-06:00

As per our post here, there are nothing in the works for Noteworthy Designs and I can't wait. One of the things I would like to implement is regular blogging. It is going to look something like this:

Manners Monday - send in your etiquette, manners, awkward situations questions. I will answer them on Mondays. If not questions are to be had, then look for a helpful tip here in that department.

Whatever Wednesdays - everything can't be structured and scheduled, can it? Here is a chance to just write whatever I want!

Favorite Things Friday - humm, could that be favorite things? Yes, I will share things that inspire me, things I love, great ideas for your wedding and anything that falls under my favorites somehow and someway.

Then of course, maybe a surprise post here and there just to keep you on your toes! So come back tomorrow and see some of my favorite things (don't get your hopes up - it isn't Oprah here - we aren't giving away great stuff, just some ideas!)

Why Do I Do What I Do?

2008-08-07T21:03:00.004-06:00

How many "do's" can you put in a title? Anyways, onto the purpose of this post.

Yesterday was a great reminder for me and one of the many reasons I am a Wedding Coordinator. I was at a tasting with a client (and no, although that is definitely a perk of my job, not a main reason!). The venue manager asked my client if they were stressed and the bride answered "no, I've got Laura for that!". It's true! One of the benefits with having a coordinator is we worry about the details and getting things done (with the bride & groom, of course).

I was so elated to hear that they weren't stressed and that they were enjoying the wedding planning process - the way it is supposed to be! Plus I am super excited for their wedding - cannot wait!!

Twittering

2008-08-04T14:14:00.002-06:00

I had to check out Twitter to see what it is all about. It is quite funny and I am still trying to figure it out, etc. Come find us on there - under laurahit and let me know if you use Twitter so I can add you. I haven't really figured out how to search for people yet, so let me know if I can find you! The fun and interesting things in technology!

You can sign up for free at twitter.com See you there!

Well Groomed Grooms

2008-07-22T08:22:00.004-06:00

Is your groom feeling left out? So groom's don't want to have too much to do with the planning and some want more.

Well check out these sites - something related directly for the groom!

the groom's groove - the web's best roadmap for a groom's trip down the aisle

Groom 411 - We make you look good. Or at least not dumb.

Dreams & Updates

2008-07-06T20:11:00.003-06:00

Since Noteworthy Designs has been in business, I have always continued to think, get inspired, plan, explore, discuss, and dream about what I want it to look like. I love my business and how we are doing, but as most businesses, continuously looking how to improve, change, stay current and ultimately, give our clients the best service that they can imagine.

All this to say that Noteworthy Designs will be making some changes in the next few months, updates and new packages to serve our clients better. After all, Noteworthy Designs strives to have your event get noticed - whether it be in Wedding Coordinating on one of the biggest days of your life or in stationery to set the tone of your event. Keep checking back - one of my changes includes blogging more!!

Clay Floral Design

2008-06-01T09:01:00.005-06:00

Yup - you read right - flowers made out of clay! How cool. I know you are thinking "cheesy", but wait till you check out her site! It is this girl in Hawaii (also featured on Martha Stewart) who makes amazing clay flowers.

Such a unique idea - I like it for hair pieces and to make a bouquet if you want to keep it forever.

Check her out at DK Designs and her blog as well.

Thanks to my colleague from the school and stationery client Karen for sharing her link. I can't wait to see her flowers!

photo courtesy of http://www.dkdesignshawaii.blogspot.com/

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-11T19:40:00.003-06:00

Card courtesy of Noteworthy Designs
Supplies from Stampin' Up! and Heidi Swapp

Madchen Studios

2008-05-10T19:05:00.004-06:00

I was doing my regular daily blog surfing checks to see what has been updated, etc and imagine my surprise when I visited a wonderful local photographer highlight Noteworthy Designs on her site. How kind!! I was so surprised to see Rachel blog about our past visit and link to my site. See it here.

Rachel does some amazing photography and has a blog that she updates regularly. Check her out at Madchen Studios.

Photo taken from Rachel's blog.

Why Hire a Coordinator

2008-05-08T21:14:00.002-06:00

Here is a video I want to share on Wedding Coordinating and the value it will add to your wedding.

Brides Unveiled Photos

2008-01-14T15:41:00.000-07:00

It came and went and now I have some photos to share. Thank you to all the brides (and grooms!) who stopped by our booth to say hi and learn more about Noteworthy Designs. We had a great time meeting people and finding out about your weddings. There are so many ways Noteworthy Designs can help you, so we encourage couples to book a free consultation to find out how Noteworthy Designs can help make your event noticed!

This is me, Laura bright and early at our booth.

That's our portfolio in the front and our emergency kit is what you see in the back. It always comes in handy - I had to use it a couple times yesterday! Thank goodness I have it with me at all events.

Our display as a whole

This is Tanis who helps us at Noteworthy Designs. It was great having her there yesterday and being a part of the team. Thanks Tanis!

Brides Unveiled 2008

2008-01-05T14:42:00.001-07:00

It's nearly here!! The Brides Unveiled Spring Bridal Show 2008. If you are in Medicine Hat (and area) and getting married, come check out some great vendors, ideas and services for your own wedding. It is presented by Magical Occasions and is one day only!

Sunday January 13, 2008
10am - 5pm at The Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede - Cypress Centre

You definately don't want to miss it. Noteworthy Designs will be there and would love to meet you. Come by to find out how to get a free 1 hour consultation to find out how Noteworthy Designs can help you plan an 'event that gets noticed'.

See you there!

Crazy for Christmas Greeting Cards

2007-11-09T19:34:00.000-07:00

Would you like to send something different this year for your family greeting cards? Noteworthy Designs can help. With our Crazy for Christmas Greeting Card sets you will be able to send beautiful hand made greeting cards to send some holiday cheer to friends and family.

Our packages come in quantities of 6 for $15.00 or 12 for $25.00 (Shipping and handling is extra, depending on where you are located). They come nicely packaged clear boxes and coordinating belly band as well as with coordinating envelopes. Matching return address labels available upon request at an extra charge.

Here are some of our many samples to choose from. Just pick your favorite and contact us to place your order or if you have any questions.

{A Pink Christmas}

{Blue Christmas}

{Happy Snowman}

{Shimmery Joy}

{Bright Ornaments}

{Happy Holidays Snowflakes}

{Christmas Cheer}

{Snow}

{Traditional Wreath}

All About Cakes

2007-11-04T22:42:00.000-07:00

I have always wanted to take a cake decorating course. I knew nothing (before this course) about cake decorating and thought it would be fun to know for our (future) kids and also for Noteworthy Designs.

It was 4 weeks long at Michael's and we made 3 cakes to decorate. Here are mine (please remember, they are my first 3 cakes I have ever done). Oh, and crappy photos I took to boot! Good thing I am a wedding planner and not a cake decorator or photographer, isn't it!?!?

Happy Thanksgiving

2007-10-08T18:13:00.000-06:00

Happy Canadian Thanksgiving to all Noteworthy Designs Blog Readers (whew - what a mouth full!). This was a little something we made for all of our guests and filled it with some little treats.

Find Noteworthy Designs

2007-10-01T20:22:00.000-06:00

Are you on Facebook? If so, come find our group, Noteworthy Designs. There is wedding talk, photos and other fun things! Would love to see you there!

It's Done!

2007-09-30T20:03:00.000-06:00

Today was the Welcome Wagon Bridal Showcase for Medicine Hat. I got home a couple hours ago and was anxious to post a couple photos. I had a great time, and Meghan was my assistant for the day (but I just realized, I don't have a photo of her!) - thanks Meghan for all your help and support carrying everything and doing all that you did!

It was great to meet a bunch of brides and chat a little bit about their weddings. So fun! There were lots of great booths and other vendors that I got to meet as well. Here are some photos.

This is me (Laura) at our booth just before all the brides and their guests entered.

This was our view of the fashion show from our booth - look at those great chinese lanterns - The Design Room was the decorator for this event.

So Grateful

2007-09-29T12:20:00.001-06:00

Part of Noteworthy Designs is creating custom stationery and some home decor - would you like one for your home? We can customize it to say whatever you want - Joy for Christmas, Spooky for Halloween, Your family name - whatever fits with you! Contact us today to get your personalized banner for your home.

I used Apple Cider Double Sided Designers Series paper from the Holiday Mini Collection. I also used the Simon Lower chipboard letters, some clear buttons, some grosgrain ribbon, a few brads and eyelets - all Stampin' Up!

This is what it looks like on our fireplace:

These are some of my favorite letters:

Bridal Showcase 2007

2007-09-27T17:51:00.000-06:00

It's nearly here! The Welcome Wagon Bridal Showcase for Medicine Hat is this Sunday September 30 at The Medicine Hat Lodge. Noteworthy Designs will be there...will you?!? Come by and say "hi".

If you are a bride and want to come, click here to register. My tip for you - get ready for some fun, great ideas and wear good shoes.

Look forward to seeing you there!

Fire in Medicine Hat

2007-09-26T21:59:00.000-06:00

This morning, Medicine Hat had a fairly large fire in our small downtown. I believe there were two buildings that were destroyed and one of them was home to one of the only wedding gown boutiques in our city! There was lots of damage from what I have heard and many brides lost their dresses in the fire as the store holds them until close to the wedding. How sad and stressful for the brides!

I wish that I had cleaned my dress after our wedding (a couple years ago!) and that it was with me here instead of Calgary. If it was, I would be all over lending it out to whoever it would work for! Facebook has started a cool group Medicine Hat Emergency Wedding Dress Swap to try and connect dresses that are sitting in a closet to brides who are in need.

A few photos taken from The Medicine Hat News website.

Graffiti

2007-09-26T21:09:00.000-06:00

So how cool is this?!?! I was surfing the net and came across this on the I Love Weddings blog - Wonderful Graffiti.

Now a days, it is so important and fun to make your wedding really unique and do something a little different than the last wedding you were at. Can you imaging these at your event?? Photos are from the Wonderful Graffiti site.

Some of my favorites

2007-09-23T19:22:00.000-06:00

I thought I would share some of my favorite greeting cards I have done in the past. If there is something you are interested in, feel free to ask! I especially like custom making greeting cards especially for people.

Congratulations on your news!

A celebration card .

A baby thank you card

Simple invitations for a Christmas party

Thank you

Would you try this?

2007-09-22T17:38:00.000-06:00

How fun! Check out this You Tube video - I love the change in the bride and groom from the start to the end. Doesn't it look like they are having a blast?!?!

All Aboard

2007-09-22T17:27:00.000-06:00

I had the chance to do some birthday invitations for a client for her son's 4th birthday party. Any ideas on what the theme might be for the party??

With this heart...I thee wed

2007-09-22T08:45:00.000-06:00

While blog surfing the other day, I came across a Manolo for the Brides that posted a very unique photo. I then searched for some and found this one. Isn't it beautiful!

What a unique photo to take of your wedding bands, especially on some text that means something very special to you. I love how wide this band is, and the photo works with all sorts of sizes.

Tip: When interviewing potential photographers for your wedding, don't be afraid to ask if they are open to request for different poses, shots, etc. I recommend to my brides that they write down all the different groupings of people that they want and give it to the photographer. I have too many friends who say they are upset as they don't have a photo with just the bride and the mother together! As well, if you see different photos that you like in a magazine, etc. cut them out and share them with your photographer.

A Double Welcome

2007-09-10T22:28:00.000-06:00

Welcome to the Noteworthy Designs Blog. If you have landing on this blog, you might be a bride or a groom who is learning more about Noteworthy Designs’ (ND) wedding planning services, or stylish individual who is looking for some unique hand crafted stationery. Well guess what! This blog is meant to inspire you. The purposes is to share some photos from weddings that I am been a part of, share some paper crafting designs that I have created and anything else that inspires me.

Hummm….what shall we start with! My husband and I relocated to Medicine Hat not too long ago. Its amazing how many people I have met so far in the wedding industry. At first, I wasn’t too sure how many wedding related businesses there were (especially coming from a booming city like Calgary) but I’ve been pleasantly surprised.

Noteworthy Designs has been getting ready to have a booth at the Medicine Hat Bridal Showcase hosted by the Welcome Wagon. It is on September 30, 2007 at the Medicine Hat Lodge. It is a Free event for brides and a couple guests and each bride receives a great bag of gifts at the door. You have to register to attend, so visit their Welcome Wagon website to do so. Be sure to come by our booth and say ‘hi’.