The Cutest Little Swing Dress

Luke and I are planning to do a swing dance for our first dance. We’ve been taking lessons at Galaxie on the west side of Chicago and it’s been really fun so far!

With just two classes under our belt we’ve learned the basic footwork and four spins. Luke is being a great sport about it all and has picked up the steps quickly. I shouldn’t be surprised though, you all know he has moves.

Since I’m predicting after our six week course and five private lessons we’ll be dipping and twirling, I decided I needed to get a swing dress to wear for our performance. Something cute that will show off a spin.

I searched on Etsy, (my favorite site ever!) and found this adorable dress.

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So stinkin cute right?! I wish I had spotted this back when I was hunting for bridesmaid dresses! The dress maker is able to do it in many colors.

I really hope she can get me one in time for April! =)

It’s All About the Details

Working in PR and planning events for my client means I have to pay extra special attention to the details. Forgetting one tiny thing could mean the difference between a successful event and a disaster, because trust me, a client notices everything- even the small stuff.

If you look at any bridal magazine, blog or website, you’ll see that modern brides as well are going the extra mile to put the finishing – and personalized – touches on their wedding. Everything is monogramed with the couple’s initials, vintage centerpieces adorn the tables and homemade favors like wine and jelly are all the rage.

Obviously, I want my wedding to incorporate little details that make our guests say “wow,” but it can be hard when you have a budget. Getting married in Chicago is already a stretch financially, so there’s no way we’re springing for those expensive “vintage” centerpieces! I could probably stalk around to antique stores looking for less-expensive options, but who has the time (or inclination) to spend their weekends doing that?

I’ve found a solution for thrifty, time-challenged brides like me, just visit Etsy.com! If you don’t know what Etsy is, it’s an online community of hand and homemade items for sale. You can find everything from jewelry, paper goods, decorations to accessories. They have a whole section dedicated to wedding items, most of which are totally making me swoon!

Here are some of my favorites:

flower

Whimsical. Fun. Festive. These party poms could be a great (and economical) way to decorate for a bridal shower, reception or rehearsal dinner. Five poms are just $25.

birds

How adorable are these love bird cake toppers? You can get them customized in your colors and monogramed for $45.

necklaceI am IN LOVE with this lace-inspired necklace. You can even get the end stone in your color of choice. All for $40!

pinwheel

Talk about making a unique statement- these pinwheel bouquets would be so cute at a casual, outdoor fete. At 5 for $50, this bride must have saved oodles on flowers.

You can check out all the amazing wedding handmade items for sale at http://www.etsy.com/category/weddings. Happy surfing!