Saturday, April 25, 2009

Going Green with Weddings



As many of you probably know, this week we celebrated Earth Day 2009. It seems as if everywhere I turn, I'm hearing the phrase "carbon footprint". If you're like me the only footprint I was aware of was the fabulous outline of my stiletto. However, that has changed. As easy as it may seem to continue in our normal day-to-day patterns out of pure convenience, we must come to realize the impact our selfish ways are affecting our planet. Not to sound as if I'm an economist, I don't think twice before spraying an aerosol can, BUT the time for change is upon all of us. Going green is easier than you think. There are little things you can do every day to help reduce greenhouse gases and make a less harmful impact on the environment. Taking care of the Earth is not just a responsibility -- it's a privilege.

1.­ Pay attention to how you use water. The little things can make a big difference. Every time you turn off the water while you're brushing your teeth, you're doing something good.
2. Leave your car at home. If you can stay off the road just two days a week, you'll reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an average of 1,590 pounds per year. Try combining errands into one day to reduce fuel emissions.
3. Walk or ride your bike to work, school and anywhere you can. You can reduce greenhouse gases while burning some calories and improving your health.
4. Recycle.You can help reduce pollution just by putting that soda can in a different bin. If you're trying to choose between two products, pick the one with the least packaging.
5. Compost. Think about how much trash you make in a year. Reducing the amount of solid waste you produce in a year means taking up less space in landfills, so your tax dollars can work somewhere else.

So, what does all this Eco Friendly stuff have to do with weddings you ask......
A very popular and fresh idea popping up everywhere are "Green Weddings" or "Eco Friendly Weddings".
Some brides decide to go totally green for their big day by utilizing recycled paper products for all stationery such as invitations, rsvp cards, thank you notes, shower invitations, place cards, & programs. Brides may also join the green movement by hiring local vendors which cuts down on fuel emissions due to driving long distances, trading in their normal cosmetics and instead, opting for organic beauty supplies, or selecting a preowned wedding gown. Another green idea is to give small plants or trees as wedding favors to all guests at your reception.

If you are environmentally aware but don't want to make every element "green", this is perfectly understandable. Although the idea of a green wedding is great, it is not a great theme for everyone. I believe as long as each of us put forth effort and do our part mother earth will smile upon us. I hope she smiles upon you and provides you with great weather and blessings on your wedding day!

For more information on green weddings visit http://science.howstuffworks.com/save-earth-top-ten.htm and http://www.greenweddings.net

Saturday, April 11, 2009

Happy Easter to You All!



Happy Easter to You All! I hope this Easter Holiday finds you all safe & well. Easter is such a wonderful time of year. As Easter approaches we begin to see the beautiful Spring colors all around us. The Easter season allows us to put away dark, winter clothes and pull out our bright pastels. If you are like me, this change of seasons, is a renewal not only for the wardrobe, but for the spirit as well. Spring is a time to put away the old and energize the new. If you are a Spring/Summer Bride, visit my Health & Fitness page for great ways to stay stressfree, carefree, & healthy during this important time in your life.

A daffodil blooms by a stream, a bluebird chirps in a tree, and , almost overnight, what was a forest of bare branches now has sprung to life with beautiful green leaves and colorful blooms. Butterflies begin fluttering and bees begin buzzing....all signs of this glorious time of year!

What better time than now to reserve your date for a Smoky Mountain Spring Wedding? If you are trying to decide on a perfect wedding destination, the Smoky Mountains provide an economical and beautiful choice. Bring the family along for summer fun at Dollywood or Ripley's Aquarium. There really is something for everyone in these great mountains and now is the perfect time to plan the wedding you have always envisioned.

Saturday, April 4, 2009

Springtime in the Smoky Mountains...


Signs of Spring are blooming all over the lush Smoky Mountains. Today was a beautiful Saturday filled with singing
birds, rushing rivers, & shimmering sunlight. The community was buzzing with roadside sales and tourist events.

With Springtime upon us, now is the time to reserve your Spring/Summer 2009 wedding date. Many venues are already booked through early fall therefore, time is of the essence, don't delay.

There are many Smoky Mountain wedding locations which capture the true ambiance of Springtime in the Smokies. If an outdoor wedding is what you fancy, please view our venues page for more information on Gazebo, Garden, & Waterfall weddings, all of which are available. If you prefer a more intimate, indoor ceremony, consider having an outdoor reception in a pavilion or under a beautiful tent. With such beautiful colors surround us, why not let nature be the perfect decor. and backdrop for your 2009 wedding? The intricate details which God has painted here in the Smokies continue to amaze and uplift us all.

Thursday, April 2, 2009

Company Introduction, Let the Bloggin Begin...



Good Evening to you all & welcome to my new blog. I'm super excited to get started on this phase of the Ever After Empire. Please feel free to comment, subscribe, or ask questions as often as you like as I am always open to feedback.Also, be sure to check my website ofter for updates!

First, a little about my company...
Ever After Events was established after I realized the growing need for independent wedding planners in the Gatlinburg, TN area. I came to the Smoky Mountains in search of the perfect wedding venue, after becoming engaged. I spent an entire weekend driving from chapel to chapel determined to find that perfect location, the place I had been envisioning since I was a little girl, my dream wedding spot. Unfortunately, things aren't always as they appear. Many of the locations I visited were not consistent with what was portrayed on their websites. A large portion of the chapels I visited required clients to use all of their services. In other words, if I wanted to wed there, I must use their photographer, their florist, their caterer, etc. After receiving such unpleasant service in such an amazing area, the beautiful Smoky Mountains, I decided I wanted to get in on the action. I wanted to provide a wedding consulting service to brides without being affiliated or tied to all those in-house services. By allowing brides to use any venue, any florist, or any other service they choose, I am confident my weddings are second to none. I work hard planning weddings so brides don't have to. After all, the Smoky Mountains are supposed to provide a beautiful yet peaceful backdrop for couples everywhere. So, sit back, relax, and let me help you plan the wedding of your dreams!