DIYer

Reason 4 to hire a florist: I'm Not Your Aunt

Here's one big hang-up people tend to have with silk flowers - your limited experience may have left a bad taste in your mouth.

We've all seen the dusty, outdated silk arrangements in the dentist waiting room or in the corner of the women's restroom. But just like you wouldn't forgo cake because you don't like the crusty ones from the supermarket, don't write off silks because of a bad encounter. We're talking quality here people.

As far as the Aunt comment, we probably all have a family member, friend, or a family member's friend who has whipped up all sorts of DIY gifts that generally go unappreciated. Luckily for me, I happen to have a highly skilled aunt who took the time to teach me about design and flower arranging and got me interested in the biz in the first place. But you know what separates me from her? I have an exclusive supplier at my beck and call willing to search to the ends of the earth to find the perfect light pink with a green center, "fresh touch" ranunculus that has at least a 3" flower, or whatever I challenge them to find for me! And not only that, but they are at the front of the pack researching the newest designs, styles, and products to bring you the absolutely most beautiful silk flowers around. So please don't let anyone walk the aisles of Walmart's craft section on your behalf for a sampling of silks; it gives me the heebie jeebies!

Instead, imagine me walking the aisles of

"the nation’s premier wholesale distributor of quality fresh cut flowers, floral supplies, and plants for over 50 years!

"Your flowers start by being hand chosen then individually designed and created by a professional... ahem, that's me! So maybe use your crafty Aunt's suggestions as a starting point to figure out what you like and don't like, then consider how the best silk flowers in the business can capture that unique look you've always wanted for your big day.

Custom Fragrance--FREE GIVEAWAY for the unique Bride!

Customizing the details of your big day to your tastes is one of the most exciting parts of wedding planning. You might be hand-making invitations, buying tea lights and accessories en masse for table decor, or canning delicious jams and jellies for favors, but what about designing your own wedding day fragrance? Design your fragrance from the comfort of your own home and have something truly personalized for your wedding. My friend Denise, of Urban Botanic, is providing this awesomely luxurious giveaway of 8 oz unscented lotion with 3 essential oils for mixing up your own special concoction. Because let's be serious, you don't want people smelling your hard working deodorant as you reach for those hugs. They would rather smell your sweetness and wonder what smells so delicious.

You can visit Denise's site and take a quick personality test to learn what your customized fragrance might include. I just discovered that my fragrance personality is "Fruity!" My custom fragrance would have hints of pomegranate, violet, sandalwood, green apple, and honeysuckle.To get this great prize it's simple! Leave a comment telling me about an aspect of your wedding that you are doing yourself to make your big day unique and truly yours. You have until October 30th to enter and the winner will be announced on Halloween. It's like trick-or-treating without going anywhere. Good luck and get writing!