~Merry Holidays~

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all

 

It gets so busy during this time of year.  From last minute trips, to the start of shopping the day after Thanksgiving (or the night of). And then there's attending company work dinners and meetings or social parties, to wrapping presents and mailing out holiday cards. To scheduling family and friends' dinners and gift exchanges, driving from one destination to another...and another.  To finally putting your feet up with some delicious eggnog (or Pinot), and listening to some soft Christmas tunes, while exhaling out a sigh of relief that you made it through another year...only to repeat itself for the following year but promising to make some changes (for the better).  We're all guilty of it and have confessed that we will be better at sticking to our New Year's resolution(s) or else!  But that's no excuse to put off a post.  So here I type...

 

In a business perspective, it's been a good year of changes, life-learning experiences, decisions and soul-searching, challenges for the better, and motivational pushes from others. As the saying goes..."work hard to play hard."  And indeed we worked hard to play a lil' here and there.  Although there's always more work to be done, always more room for improvement, we're ready for it.  And yes, it's harder than we thought.  But on a personal level, 2010 has finally helped me build on my character and seek out as to where I want to be and who I want to become. This has increased my self-esteem and to believe that anything is possible and I can do it all if I take that leap forward without any fear, any hesitation...and that's also making sure I live up toward my "DECADE OF DESTINY".

 

We've got a few couples lined up for next year, and aiming to help with more. We're hoping to climb up the ladder of self-fulfillment and success within this business and within ourselves.

 

To end, C&C Engagements wishes you much love and success in 2011. Here's to good cheer, good laughter, good company, good health, and good riddance to a decent 2010 (because in reality, we're ready to trek forward & live in 2011).  Here we go...

 

Cheers!

Happy Holidays!

Sweet Little Cookie

We had attended a beautiful wedding in October and found the delicious bagged cookie favors to be homemade locally by a company called Sweet Little Cookie.  So I contacted her a couple weeks later to ask a few basic questions to post on our blog site. 


Photo Courtesy of SweetLittleCookie.com


From baking to a stay at home mom and wife, Doreen Huezo shares her story and advice on how she started her own cookie business. 

When did you first know that baking was not only a hobby for you but a business you wanted to take to a higher level? 

Well, I've been baking for several years and I've always loved it.  I would bake for friends and family and they always thought I should sell them. But I had a 9 to 5 job, had been working at the same title company for 10 years so the thought was never taken seriously, until I was laid off in February of 2008. The real estate market turned on me and I was devastated, not knowing how we were going to pay our bills. But that's when the thought of selling my cookies became a reality and starting my own cookie baking company became my new venture.  What better time to give it a try, right?  I launched SweetLittleCookie.com in May 2008 and couldn't be happier that I did.

What is your favorite cookie?

That's tough...it changes from day to day.  I guess it depends on what mood I'm in.  But lately, it's been the White Chocolate Macadamia....so yummy! :)

What is the biggest order you’ve ever had? 

A Staples Office Supply in Northern California ordered 50 dozen cookies for a grand opening/customer appreciation event they were having.  It took me all day (literally) to complete the order, but it felt great to know I could do it.

What is your most popular cookie? 

My Perfectly Sweet Chocolate Chip, without a doubt. 


Photo Courtesy of SweetLittleCookie.com

Where is the farthest you’ve ever had to mail cookies to?

To Afghanistan, a couple of times actually.  I receive orders from women who have husbands stationed out there and want to send them a little bit of home :)

What do you like to do when you have some free time from baking? 

Spend quality time with my husband and three kids.  We have a 15 year old son, a 4 year old daughter and a baby boy who's turning 1 in December.  Needless to say, there's never a dull moment.  We have a ton of fun together. 

What have you learned about having your own business? 

Honestly, it's tougher than I thought it would be.  It's extremely rewarding, yet very time consuming.  Some times I feel like the business owns me, not the other way around.  I guess it's because I thrive on customer service and the only way I'm going to offer an awesome product with exceptional service is to give it my all, which in turn means giving up much of my personal time.  But again, it's so rewarding and I LOVE what I do.  When I send out cookies to a soldier overseas or to a mother who just had a baby or to an 8 year old who just had knee surgery and is stuck in bed, I feel like my cookies are making that sweet little difference in their lives. And that makes it SO worth it.

What is one advice you can give others who wish to start their own business? 

Do your homework before getting started.  Find out if there's local competition, if your business would thrive in your area and if you're able to commit full time.  Having this knowledge before getting started can save you a tremendous amount of heartache and frustration.  It can also help make you the best business owner ever.

Accessorize Me Part II: Hair Accessories

For my second segment of the "Accessorize Me" posts, I wanted to go further more into the hair piece selection(s) for a wedding.  Since the 1st segment touched up on Veils, here are some wonderful inputs on other hair accessory selections from some of my girlfriends.

As we all know and can agree on, aside from the jewelry that's chosen, a bride's hair piece is one of the finishing touches to add hints of glamour and unique taste to the full ensemble of the wedding day look. There are so many choices, but keep in mind that you also want to make sure your hair accessory will go with your hairstyle.  So usually, selecting the right hair accessory is no easy task. 

You can as bold with your selection

 

Photo Courtesy from www.etsy.com (seller: Pegasusmaiden) 

...or as clean and priceless as a beautiful, fresh flower.

 

Photo Courtesy from Steve Maller Photography

Take my BFF Lileth for instance.  To match her tropical Costa Rican wedding, she went with a white stargazer lily that matched perfectly with  her bird cage veil. Not only is it one of her most loved flowers, but it matched her white color theme they had chosen. She quoted, "The smell of the flower is sweet and dreamy. It's simple but beautiful."  And she's totally right. According to my online resource, the stargazer lilies are young, delicate bold, beautiful and fragrant all at once, bringing a meaning of wealth and prosperity. 

Some people may be allergic to fresh flowers (poor things) and must go the alternate "fake" route.  Thankfully not allergic to flowers, Arvie chose to wear a simple ivory faux flower from a seller on Etsy.

It was hand cut and made with silk dupioni and silk organza, swarovski crystals, coque feathers, and glass beads. It just added such an elegant touch to this already beautiful bride.

Now if you want to save some money and create something straight from the heart, do what my cousin-in-law Myrene did.  She took a pearl button (which matched her jewelry), and bought white silk flowers from Michael's Crafts.   

She wrapped the comb clip using floral tape and glued it on the back of the flower, attached the pearl button and presto, her very own handmade flower hair piece.  And to my surprise she also made the girls' hair piece too but used different buttons.

Perhaps flowers aren't your thing and you'd prefer to leave them as your centerpeice or as your hand bouquet.  Some brides will opt for a hair pin(s) instead. My friend Karen decided to wear these Tinsel Topper Hair Pins she found at Anthropologie as her "something blue".

 

The petals were white while the center was blue crystals. 

Below, Aimee chose the butterfly tiara purchased on Bridal People.  Her tiara definitely tied in the butterfly theme they had going from their wedding invitations, wedding programs and wedding cake.  It was small and simple.

And speaking of tiaras, I can't complete this post without mentioning what I used for my hair accessory.  I always knew I wanted to have a princess look for my special day. So the very first thing I bought soon right after I got engaged was my tiara.  With my MOH's right beside me, I purchased a Rhinestone and Pearl Filigree Bridal Tiara from the Jessica McClintock Outlet store in SF.  It has an open back, featuring a silver frame covered with clear Swarovski rhinestones and pearls. 

 

I'm hoping to pass this down and have it be used as a family heirloom for generations to come. 

One last addition I didn't want to forget were these super incredible Head Vines.

 

Photo Courtesy of Tiger Lilly Jewelry     

Their adaptibility lets you create your own style and can be placed anywhere around your bridal hairstyle. I guess you can say it's a cross between a flexible tiara, headband, and a pin. Check out Tiger Lilly Jewelry's one-of-a-kind selection.  

 

Photo Courtesy of Tiger Lilly Jewelry   

Here are a few other websites I found to be helpful in providing high-quality and modern hair accessories:  

Hair Comes The Bride: Location: Southern California / Providing exceptional service (hair and make-up), while giving brides-to-be different ideas and tips. If you don't want to overwhelm yourself with too many options, definitely visit this site.  

Perfect Details: Location: Burlingame, CA / "From Demure to dramatic, this season's bridal hair accessories add sparkle and shine to any hairstyle and wedding day look."

Etsy:  Anything you find on here is a great find.  The selections can go on and on…                

 

Good luck ladies!

"The Wedding Lane"

Tina here... Check us out as we are featured in the lastest blog post of

The Wedding Lane. 

Thanks Eileen for the kudos! Looking forward to reading more of your posting.

La La's Wedding Tips

Something I watched the other day that I thought was worth posting. Found a beautiful picture of actress and former MTV Veejay La La Vazquez and her longtime love NBA star Carmelo Anthony.



Here, La La shares some of her insights on personal tips to remember before, during and after your wedding (just some of the things I've told myself and brides I know). 

La La’s Full Court Wedding (Bonus Edition) Tips - from VH1

• Let your man have some say in the details (“marriage is about compromise afterall”)


• Don’t take everything so seriously…Remember to laugh


• Make time for your friends


• Keep your relationship fresh (“never let the romance die”)


• Go with your first instinct!


• Make your family a priority (“don’t get so engrossed in the planning process that you forget important things that go on in your life”)


• Rely on the advice of people that you trust


• Stay flexible (“if you want to change things at the last minute”)


• Be in the moment…or else you’ll miss it! (“take a moment to soak it all in”)

Accessorize Me Part I: Wedding Veils

There are certain things and ways that can suit a bride perfectly right before the "I do's". From her "fits-like-a-glove" wedding dress, her hair "did", nails done, flawless make-up on, a radiant glow that a happy bride can carry throughout her special day, and not to forget her forever mate hand-in-hand and ready to unite to become one.  But there are also a couple other things besides what I just mentioned above that compliment the perfect wedding dress and the perfect bride. And that is what every girl and every stylish woman can attest to...the importance of accessorizing. 

Today I will concentrate on the wedding veil.  There's one specific wedding veil for every bride-to-be, and one that completes the style of her wedding dress. But before I move on, let's try and understand the significance of the bride's veil with a short history (and some may believe a fictional) lesson as to why a veil was important for brides. 

Photo sharing courtesy of http://weheartit.com/entry/532139

It was said that it was bad luck for the mister to see his future misses before the ceremony (and some will still rule this as a no-no to this day). So in order to conceal her, a veil was placed over her face, until they were face to face at the altar.  Going even further back into time, it was also believed that a veil was to stray away the demons from the bride. Not sure what demons, but all these superstitions carried on for many years or at least showed to prove (in most weddings) the importance of wearing a veil.

Photo Courtesy of Brides Magazine

So for this post, I went straight to the simplest of all resources...my friends. I've asked a few of my girlfriends to share their story of why they chose the veil they wore for their wedding day.

Here we have Aimee (miss mimi). She wanted a veil that had a similar style of rhinestone designs and one that wouldn't take away the focal point of her beautiful wedding dress, but yet accent the dress in some way. So she chose a single layer elbow length ivory Bel Aire veil with a simple design around the edges, adorned with a few rhinestones.  Stunning!

Photo Courtesy of bride Aimee Chow (7/7/07)

Next is Arvie. She chose to wear a thin bordered lace mantilla veil because she liked the way it draped across the top of her head and how it fell elegantly down the back and over the shoulders.  Not only did this veil remind her of the Virgin Mary picture, but she also loved Mandy Moore's character's wedding veil in the movie A Walk to Remember.  Eloquently graceful!

Photo Courtesy of Ed Pingol Wedding Photography - 4/3/10

Our next bride is Lileth (yes, you're right...from Letlove Photography).  For her destination wedding in Costa Rica, she knew right away the type of veil she wanted to wear, which was a bird cage veil.  She said that it was something that reflected her personality and sense of style (which is sooo true). She adds, "I am such an old, classic, vintage soul--it also speaks old glamour which I love."  Absolutely gorgeous! 

 

Photo Courtesy of Steve Maller Photography

To all you brides out there, much luck to you and easy findings on finding the perfect veil. But also remember that no matter what a bride picks for her wedding veil, for whatever reason, there are no explanations to describe the beauty that's extended as she walks down the aisle...it's priceless...a forever moment.

Coming up next in this 3-part segment, I'll be touching up on wedding day hair accessories. Stay tuned...

Ko'Olina Resort-Your Hawaiian Get-a-way

...And we're back! Courtney had taken a 2 week vacation to Europe, and I just got back from my birthday/anniversary relaxation in Hawai'i.

I feel terrible that I haven't been able to get back to my postings on a weekly basis. But no worries...we haven't forgotten about you.

During my visit to my home island of Oahu, we stayed one night at the amazing Ko'Olina resort in Kapolei. 

And I'm serious when I say that we saw 4 different couples getting married at the Ko'Olina resort in just one Saturday afternoon. And how do I know that they were all different couples? Well, the moment we arrived in our upgraded room with a breathtaking pool, lagoon and ocean views, we saw a couple standing on the beach off the beautiful blue lagoon, both wearing white, and posing to take their wedding day photos.  About 30 minutes later, the minute we walked passed the pool toward the sand, we see another couple (this time, it's a groom wearing a black suit) heading toward their outdoor reception. Not even 10 minutes later, another couple approaches the sandy beach and the groom is wearing a handsome beige suit, ready to take their pictures. "Wow, that's 3 weddings" I thought to myself. As soon as Jay & I were done swimming, we walked on over to the other man-made lagoon to check it out, only to turn around and see another couple gazing into each other eyes during their photo session.  I was shocked to see that many weddings taking place all in one afternoon.  After reading up on Ko'Olina's different websites, it's pretty convincing that they offer a unique blend of paradise, tropical essence, and dedication to fit any couple's desires.

They provide different wedding packages to best fit your needs for your wedding and/or wedding renewals. Options are endless...whether you want to hide your toes in the sand while exchanging your vows in front of the crescent-shaped lagoon.

Or feel the warmth of the sun and sea breeze on their ocean front lawn.

Or perhaps your preference is to take a traditional stroll down the aisle of their Chapel by the Sea.

... Because Ko'Olina is nestled on the west coast of Oahu, imagine the sunset views you can have on your wedding day.

From the Ko'Olina Beach Villas Resorts, to the JW Marriot Ihilani Resort & Spa...you and your guests may choose from a couple places to stay.  And that's not all...they're expecting to open a Disney Resort called Aulani in 2011. Just think of the wedding packages they'll offer through that resort!

While there, you can even gather your guests together to attend the nearby luau at Paradise Cove.  You may also participate in all different kinds of activities they offer around the resorts.  Whatever your preference...if you've always imagined your very own Hawaiian wedding, Ko'Olina Resort is one to consider, and won't let you down.

We HEART Referrals

It's quite a thrill to know people...who know people...who know people...who need you (your help, your services, your insight, your expertise). We call these REFERRALS. 

And anybody in the business LOVES referrals.  It brings forth an array of appreciation and shows a side of your capabilities.

I spoke to my very good friend Lileth of Letlove Photography the other day.  It was so exciting to hear her enthusiasm about her upcoming photo jobs with clients, and all because of leads from friends. As she continued on, she sounded more ecstatic to share with me some good news about people who might be taking an interest in our wedding planning services.  Let then started to talk about building a "community" amongst us and other vendors we already are in touch with (C&C Superstars).  I know I've read somewhere the importance of something very similar to this, and knew we would eventually apply this to C&C, especially since we're just starting out.  Basically sticking together to scratch each other backs, if you will.  And although we do understand that it all comes down to the clients themselves to choose what's best for them, I think it'd help a great deal to share with couples other vendors in our "community" we trust.  I know first hand that's what they would want...that's what they would ask for.

Not even 30 minutes after I hung up the phone with Let, I received a text message from another friend of mind, who's mother had inquired about our Day-of "Keeping My Cool" wedding package for a friend of hers who has a daughter getting married.  Just that inquiry alone, had me smiling from ear to ear, and visioning the potential we have to service any bride and groom out there.  Just the fact that C&C Engagements is being looked at as a force in the wedding biz who can help make wedding dreams come true is absolutely exhilarating.  Aside from that, what makes this post more special is that we've begun researching several venues for two sets of newly engaged couples who have plans to get married in 2011.  Courtney & I are very pleased and fortunate that they've entrusted us to help them with certain parts of the planning.

Some of you may understand the feeling of being recognized and how it feels to be acknowledged of what you do best, and even with the referral that you can do the job, it's a fulfilling moment. And that's just the beginning.  It's no easy task, but with this "buzz marketing" (crossing fingers and toes), we can overcome the impossible, and create wedding visions into reality.

The "Superior Wife Syndrome"

This was taken from an email I received last year from Family Life, a non-profit ministry both my husband and I subscribe to, donate to, and receive helpful information about life's encounters with regards to families, relationships, marriage.

October 12, 2009
The "Superior Wife Syndrome"
by Barbara Rainey

On a recent Monday morning, I had turned on the Today Show to catch our local news and weather on the half hour. As I listened from the kitchen I heard one of the hosts introduce an author with new research on wives. The title of her book is The Superior Wife Syndrome. When I heard the intro I grabbed my notepad and sat down to hear about the latest syndrome to afflict our population. I was ready to critique.
But as I listened I found myself agreeing with some of what she said, though I wouldn't go so far as to label it a syndrome. The author, Karen Rubenstein, has discovered that millions of wives think they do everything better than their husbands. They feel they are more responsible, more capable, and in a word, more superior. Hmmm, I thought. Sounds a little more like pride to me.
There is truth to this discovery. Beginning in the 1960s, women have been instructed to do it all. We've been told we can work full time and raise kids at the same time, all with great success. Many have gone so far as to say we don't need men. Women's drive to achieve equality in the work place has resulted in this attitude of superiority, I believe.
This temptation to exalt ourselves over our men is as old as the earth. I find myself dealing with this attitude more than I'd care to admit. I load the dishwasher more efficiently than he, I fold the clothes better than he, and I pack the car much more neatly than his haphazard preference of just throwing it all in and slamming the door to keep it from falling out.
And when I focus on how much better I am in certain tasks and responsibilities I can quickly move to feeling superior. In addition I'm learning this is much more of a temptation in the empty nest. When we had kids my corrective measures were directed at them and less at my husband. Now he is the sole focus of my rehabilitation and retraining efforts. Poor man.
Rubenstein gave three tips for this syndrome which are not new, but they are good to remember because they are timeless. First, ask for help. He can't read your mind. Second, educate him with logic, not emotional outbursts. And third, be willing to settle for less.
I would add a fourth tip: Let him be who he is, as my husband would say. And he is so right, because there is more than one way to do a task. My way isn't always right and his isn't always wrong. Most of our conflicts aren't about right and wrong anyway, but about personal preferences for how something is accomplished. In the end it's not a big deal anyway. Certainly not worth the damage to your marriage and to your man that an attitude of superiority will cause.

© Copyright 2009 by FamilyLife. All rights reserved.

Valdez-Barillaro Ceremony

...and several years after they officially met, they were married.  I'm talking about our friends Thomas and Michelle Barillaro.  They took their comittment into God's hands, received a blessing of a lifetime and vowed in marriage on August 7, 2010 at St. Basil's Church in Vallejo, California.  It was a sweet ceremony with some giggles, tears, lots of smiles & joy...all that filled the church at 2:30 PM on a bright and sunny Saturday afternoon.   

Michelle is naturally beautiful, but there was something about her glow as she walked down the aisle along side her parents and approached her love Thomas.  Being a bride, perhaps? Maybe so, but possibly it could be because this was a long time coming for this couple. Her glow signified a deep love they have together--a treasure noone can ever comprehend.

 

Being engaged for a few years and having gone through so much together, while also bringing into the world their adorable daughter Skye Lauren 2 years ago, this was definitely a wedding their family and friends have been looking forward to for a while. And after they made their promises before God and everyone in attendance, it was truly a lovely scene to see them walk back up the aisle hand in hand as Mr. & Mrs. Thomas & Michelle Barillaro.

Reception details to come...

"...for where your treasure is, there your heart will also be."  Matthew 6:21

We Reveal...

"A dream becomes a goal the moment you write it down. A goal becomes a plan the moment you break it down into doable steps. A plan becomes a reality only when you take action." - Marshall Sylver

I just heard someone screamed “ACTION!”

It’s been a few months now that we’ve been collectively working on our website.  With the starting help from Joanne (Duka), we continued to edit the site with our own personal touches.  Courtney did a lot, if not MOST of the work in editing, adding stylish pages, learning the different tools and trends of creating a website.  A magical process, I must say.  While I kept up with the blog, we worked and tag-teamed a lot of the things we wanted to feature on our site. Courtney really did an exceptional job with www.ccengagements.com. (“how do you like that as a revealing moment, Let?”).  :)

Yes, that’s right…we want to reveal to you

www.ccengagements.com

We know hard work can pay off eventually (and we have no doubt in our hearts that it will).  But we feel it started to already. Just the fact that we sit here and have taken a step forward to venturing off into a dream of our own, it’s an incredible feeling—a sense of accomplishment toward our purpose on this Earth.

We welcome you to visit, browse through, and spread the word to family & friends, especially to those looking for a little help, or a lot of help with their wedding. Nothing’s too small, nor to big to make your visions of a dream wedding come true.

Thank you to those who have patiently been waiting...and even thanks to those who are now in the know and have visited this blog and our website. We’re proud to be a part of this beginning, and will be more proud to be a part of yours. 

Be on the lookout for C&C Engagement's Facebook page...bringing you real life stories, ideas, pictures and all sorts of relational/engagements/wedding/marriage related chatter.

...and...

~stay tuned for photos from this past weekend's Purple wedding of our friends Mr. & Mrs. Thomas & Michelle Barillaro (congratulations!)~

 

Letlove Photo Shoot

See, I told you I’d bring her up again sooner or later… 

Court & I had the pleasure of working with Ms. Letlove herself of Letlove Photography a couple weeks ago. Even though we thought we were pretty sure we didn’t need a fancy background and we wanted it to be easy on the eyes for our website, we just couldn’t resist the beauty of what the coast offers. And that’s the view of the Pacific Ocean. 

So we hopped in the car after meeting with Let at her beautiful home in Pacifica, and took a stroll on Hwy 1. We could’ve stopped anywhere, to be honest, but we wanted a bit of seclusion.  We parked and although the wind wasn’t cooperating and we were near a parking lot area (no privacy - eh, all good), Let still snapped away & captured some great photos.  She also took us to a near-by secluded field near her home and continued to showcase her vision for nature’s beauty and placing us right smack in the middle of it. Phenomenal outcome! 

[caption id="attachment_288" align="aligncenter" width="340" caption="Courtesy of Letlove Photography"][/caption]

She’s a natural at hand, has a thirst for life’s moments, and knows when and how to make you laugh and feel pretty.  Courtney & I commend Lileth on a job well done.  And even when not feeling 100%, she photographed with all her might.  That tells you how truly dedicated she is and how much she loves her passion for capturing memorable and timeless moments to be treasured for lifetimes.  Thanks Let! Keep doing what you’re doing. We love you! 

[caption id="attachment_282" align="aligncenter" width="398" caption="Courtesy of Letlove Photography"][/caption]

Slow Down and Enjoy Relationships

Here's a quick and painless reminder for the "soon-to-be's". And I'm finding some points to be of great aide for any couple - courtesy of Corey, the Editor of Simple Marriage.

The world is seemingly moving at a faster pace. Everywhere you turn, the pace is quick. Deadlines are moved up, workload is increased, kid’s schedules are packed, to-do lists are long, housework never ends – it’s chaos.

At least it feels this way.

Has the world really sped up? Are there more things happening today than 50 years ago? No, and no.

Some things around us may involve more pressure and feel like it’s moving faster, but many times it only feels this way. Thanks to the Internet and cable we hear about everything that happens, immediately.

Our interconnectedness through technology has helped create the illusion of a faster paced world. It’s also created the illusion of less loneliness and isolation – but there’s nothing that can replace real life connections with other people. Physical contact and interaction is vital.

This loss of contact and the perceived pace of the world produces a feeling of chronic anxiousness and a decrease in the ability to find pleasure in some of the simple things.

Honestly, when was the last time you stopped and took in the smell of fresh baked bread? Or colored with crayons? Or walked barefoot in the grass? Or took a few minutes to just breathe?

No where is the impact of our pace felt more than in marriage and family. It’s extremely difficult to move hurriedly through your day and then slow down enough to enjoy your family or your spouse in the evening.

Some of the reasons marriage and family relationships go through sour patches is the squeezing they get from our schedules, disconnection, and pace. It’s easy to get caught up in other things and have the immediate outweigh the important.

To reverse this, here’s a few ideas to try:

Start small.
No change in life is easy or comfortable. Working to let go of the pace around you and creating your own speed takes time and should be attempted in small, incremental steps. Begin by giving yourself permission to slow down. This may seem like a no brainer, but many people believe they don’t have permission to slow down. You do. Whenever life seems to move too fast, take a deep breathe. Three to five slow, deep breaths will slow everything down.

Leave the office.
And I mean leave the office. Shut off all projects, messages, emails, phone calls and conversations and leave the office at the end of the day. Most everything can wait until the next day, so leave it alone until then. As an added help, create a routine to help you disengage from the office on the way home. Walk down the stairs slowly rather than taking the elevator. Drive down tree lined streets rather than the interstate. Walk or bike home from work if possible. Listen to good music while on the train or bus. Stop by the gym for a workout. No matter which way you transition from work to home, make it intentional. Breathe. Relax. Breathe. Let work go. Then walk through the door to your home and enjoy time with those you love.

Turn off all electronic gadgets.
This one is simple. Turn off the phone. The Internet. The television. Spend time talking, playing games, take a walk outside. The point is, unplug and connect with other humans.

Be 100% present.
This is tough at times. But it also is a source of increased tension in life. When I’m with my kids and have other things on my mind, my kids become a pest and source of frustration – at least that’s the way it plays out. When I’ve got work on my mind, my son’s request to play cars is an annoyance rather than an invitation into the world of imaginative play with my child. Whatever you are doing, focus on being 100% present. Multitasking is impossible anyway. Focus on doing one thing at a time and being 100% present while doing it.

Take a walk.
Make it a priority to walk with your spouse and your kids each day. There’s tremendous benefit to being out in nature, even if it’s nature in the city. Want a sure-fire way to improve your marriage? Walk and talk with your spouse at least 30 minutes a day.

Eat outside.
There’s something great about being in nature. There’s something even greater about sharing a meal with others outside. Head to the park for a picnic, eat on the patio at home or restaurants.

Prepare for your day.
Spend a moment at the end of your day preparing for the next day. Pick out clothes, make lunches, talk with your spouse. Then in the morning, before you jump into your day, take some time a simply sit quietly. Enjoy a cup of tea or coffee. Breathe slowly, meditate, pray. What a great way to start each day.

"I Need a Favor..."

“Mayday, mayday…we have a favor dilemma.”  I know…there are thousands of ideas to choose from. From stylish, to inexpensive, a unique choice or personalized; there are just too many out there.  Some may want theirs to match their wedding theme, others may want something they know will be useful for the receiver.  Either way, it’s a decision that will eventually have to be made.  Well with a little creativity, this can be something to fit your theme, something affordable and can be neatly dressed to look unique and stylish. More importantly, it just might be something useful to most, if not, to all people in attendance.  Even if you decide you want a combination of favors for your guests, let one of your choices be an EDIBLE FAVOR.

You really can’t go wrong with this selection (unless you have a guest or two allergic to your edible favor-woopsie).  Again, there are hundreds of edible favors to choose from and it’s obvious that the choices go on. You can get as creative as you want, or simple as a tasty truffle.

My first pick for no particular reason is a Fortune Cookie favor.



For my wedding, I actually chose this as a 2^nd favor for our guests.  The fun thing about fortune cookies is that majority of the time, you’re able to customize the “fortune message” inside by thanking your guests for coming, or adding a favorite Bible verse or quote. The company I went with was Fortune Nut Cookie, located in Belmont, CA. I decided to go with them because not only did they provide a reasonable bulk price, but the fortune cookies were wrapped individually in their own baggies. Plus, the gal who assisted me was very helpful the whole time.

A next choice you can guarantee your guests won't complain about a beautiful mint tin filled with your favorite mints or other candies. Not only can you choose a mint tin suitable for your wedding theme or colors, this piece can also be personalized with your names and wedding date.



Anybody and everybody loves cookies. You can get as creative as you want to when it comes to the packaging and the cookie of your choice.



One suggestion is to go to your favorite local bakery and cut a deal with them to provide you with x amount of cookies with either your monogram, a certain design or color from your wedding theme. If you have a helpful crew, why not bake your favorite batch yourself. Stack 'em up in a clear baggie that you can find at your nearest craft store, tie it with a colored ribbon, and you're all set.

 

image courtesy of www.marthastewartweddings.com/

A favorite, soothing moment I try and have a few times a week is sipping on my cup of tea (I know I'm not the only one who enjoys this). I think this is just a cute idea; especially if you get to personalize the tea bag itself. It's low-cost and quaint.

As a side note, if you're thinking of buying gifts for your Primary Sponsors or grandparents, a wonderful idea is to locate some beautiful, inexpensive tea sets for them to appreciate. It'd be a great combination, don't you think?

My last but not least pick is the brownie or cake lollipops. In other words...Lollicakes. My husband and I actually have a friend who is starting out her own side business in San Deigo. She's a newbie just like yours truly, and is successfully enjoying what she's doing. Place your order and have them mailed to you within a week before your wedding.  Your final step would be to personalize them with a your preferred color ribbon. 

Congratulations Joyce, and good luck with A Sweet JOYous Occasion.

Yes, the selections are still plentiful and you can go way beyond these few I've listed.  Good luck with your favors!

.LetLove. shine

Tina here~

 

Introducing LetLove Photography http://www.letlovephotography.com

She's an amazing, beautiful upcoming photographer here in the Bay Area. And I'm putting her on blast---sisterly-positively-all love blast!!

This is the moment she's been waiting for and things are sweetly coming along for my girl Lileth D. Rau. She's always had the eye to capture the most beautiful images, and has gained alot of knowledge about photography along the way.

I've known this girl for over a decade-way over a decade actually. And I love her to death (she knows it). She has a fun-loving spirit, speaks her mind, and isn't afraid to go one-on-one with you in basketball. I respect her with all my heart.

She inspires those around her to look beyond the impossible... and I love that she's doing that with every shot. I can go on and on about my "sis", but I'll savor it for later blogs. There will definitely be more updates and plugs on LetLove Photography-stay tuned.

.Living2Love.

**blog excerpt from http://tinay-pie.blogspot.com/ 

Tina here~

This is the flow of my mind...at this time:

Dedicated to all those who keep pushing, climbing, thriving and striving for success…to get that sense of completion or at least come close to it.

Abraham Lincoln once said:

"Always bear in mind that your own resolution to succeed is more important than any other one thing."

You have the power. And as I read article after article on Etsy about people like me & you, who are “living on what they LOVE”, it makes me happy that I personally know people taking those steps to LIVE what THEY love…just like us.

Doing something you love doesn’t always paint a pretty picture...especially when you’re starting out. But I bet if you keep the following below in mind (keeping that passion strong, and building your brand), it can lead you toward a beautiful mural. These are just some thoughts that I have…there’s more to it, but I want to share mine:

It takes WORK (extra, double, triple overtime from your every day work).
It takes TIME (last night I was multi-tasking like no other: folding laundry, organizing a room, calling the bride with questions, taking notes, whilst chatting with Courtney, and taking a break to have some cereal and milk for a snack. Time flew by after 3 hours messaging back and forth. But we got a lot done!).
It takes DEDICATION. Coming home from 8 hours work, and 1 hour of commute time, you really have to push yourself and motivate yourself to get back on the saddle and start working on that thing you Live to LOVE for.
It takes PATIENCE. Boy, when you’ve worked so hard on something, and know you did all of the above by putting in your extra work, time, and dedication, you feel a reward is bound to come. “It has to come” you tell yourself. Maybe so...maybe not this time. Having patience can really be helpful in an example like this. I’ve learned to remind myself that though a lot of effort was put into something, I may not be rewarded at once, but as long as I know I did the best I could and I get one compliment, I can move on to the next one.
It takes an OPEN MIND. The ideas are plentiful, and the opportunities are continuous. Step out of the norm, and get into projects and hobbies you never thought you’d be caught doing. You never know what you’re capable of if you don’t try.
It takes an OPEN BOOK...literally. I’ve read a few books over the past few months, and I have gained more knowledge now about marketing, business, networking, building up my personal brand, etc…than ever before in my life. And I’ll continue to do that.
It takes FAITH. Believing that all is possible, you're "stepping out in faith", as Victoria Osteen puts it in her book Love Your Life
It takes LOVE. The love you have for something you’ve always wanted to do, or always had a keen interest on can make you feel wholesome…in a way that you never thought would be possible.

To my husband, Jay, who amazes me every time he is challenged with a task, and I watch him go through it, and watch him overcome it, he’s remained in a state of success no matter the circumstances. He leads me toward this bright future and believes that I’m capable of things I may not see or can’t quite grasp the idea of just yet. He reminds me of how to handle my time, and if I stress out, take a break-simple as that. He shares with me his ultimate goals and the love he has to be able to give back, to climb up the ladder of success, and to share this all with me. He shares his love about all things that are possible for us.

To Courtney, with the unstopable mind of creative flow. She knows, I know, we know..."lesdodis."

To family & friends who support, who love...believe it.

Let yourself be silently drawn by the stronger pull of what you really love. -Rumi

This Logo Won

Tina here~

I can't even begin to tell you how many emails were exchanged trying to get a sense of where we were going with our C&C logo.  Contemplating on what we envisioned for our logo, and meshing them together to create something we both can smile about is a pretty tough project.  We both have insane similarities, creativeness, and ideas that can compliment the other person's idea, and can work to agree on something quickly, and you'll know that just by working with us, or reading our blogs.  But to our surprise, something so simple can actually take a while to perfect to our satisfaction.  We had one hecka of a time choosing the different logos that popped up. 

Counting from the very beginning when we started inquiring with our gal-pal Jo (who is on an excellent start in designing things such as these), I think we went through about 59...that's right, a fifty-niner attempt, that consisted of different styles, colors, fonts, placement of initials, designs, shapes, sizes...back-n-forth to what fits us best.  You'd think our Mission Statement or our About Us page would take a little longer, but not so much.  Who knew how much time would be spent on deciding on such a small little part of our start-up.  I think because we hail from the Virgo zodiac sign, we gave that "attention to detail" toward this logo that we wanted to make sure we were both happy with it.  After hours with  Mr. Lionel's Photoshop expertise, and more exchanging of emails and chat messages, sharing each other's opinions, we are now set. We finally concluded with something that represents us, obviously (the simplicity of it makes me smile).

C&C Logo

So here we go...on to our next mission.  We're trying to familiarize ourselves with the awesomeness of wix.com, grabbing our domain through godaddy.com, setting up our Google Voice, and spending time on our website, sorting through gobs of information that we're considering. And of course, the countdown has begun for the Valdez-Barillaro wedding to happen in 31 days (exactly a month from today)....get outta here.  

Renowned makeup artist Judith Koppelmann shares favorites, secrets and tips for your big day! (expert advice) - courtesy of projectweddings.com

Her Special Wedding Instructions!

Naturally, on your wedding day, you want to look and feel your very best ...

1. Get plenty of sleep, please!

2. Don't try anything new on your skin 7-10 days before your wedding. You don't know how your skin will react.

3. Well-shaped brows can open up your whole face, get them done ten days before the wedding, then two days before get them touched up or pluck the few strays yourself.

4. One reason to hire a makeup artist and a hair stylist: they will come armed with all the necessary tools to make you look your best. Being pampered by pros also allows you to relax on your most important day.

5. Have a trial run with your makeup artist if you are using one, as well as your hairdresser. Feel free to express yourself when something does not feel right for you, this is what the trial is for.

6. One week before and the day of -- limit your salt and alcohol intake, which can lead to puffiness. Drink plenty of water, which will flush out toxins and can help prevent dehydration headaches.

7. Freeze moistened green or white tea bags to put over your eyes. The ingredients in them help reduce puffiness.

8.  While getting your hair or makeup done, taking the time to put your feet up, relax a little and drink your water.

Finally, it never hurts to just lie down and take a rest -- your eyes will reflect your refreshed energy and spirit. The better care you take of them, the brighter they'll sparkle!

.candylicious.

Everyone loves candy. And even if they don't, they did at one point in their lives. 

We have dived into the world of candy buffet knowledge these past couple weeks, finding all the different sweet treats this world can offer, and looking into all shapes and sizes of vases to hold them in.  Looking through numerous websites for all sorts of ideas, we've gained quite a sweet delight in learning how to put one together.  Here are just a few examples:



The ideas are e n d l e s s ...



We are excited to make this our own creation...to stamp our personal touch on this table...

Purple (people eaters)

Courtney and I are currently working on Michelle and Thomas' wedding that's set to happen on August 7, 2010. 

:Save-the-date courtesy of designer Joanne Duka (http://www.joanneduka.com):

They chose a beautiful combination of colors:  deep royal purple, silver, and lavendar. I have fallen more in love with the royal purple since I've been browsing around for purple ideas.  It's just so eye-catching and I swear I never quite noticed how elegant and yet vibrant the color can be...

Here are just a few purple ideas that really stood out...

More details on this perfecto purple-pizzazz of a poshness wedding to come... ♥         peace~

Tina here~

(To help get a kick-start to this blog, I'll be mentioning things from my own wedding from time-to-time)

Planning our wedding was an experience that motivated me to really dig deep to find my passion.  It was fun, it was interesting, and to be straight up honest, something I enjoyed.  It meant organization; sticking to one idea but changing your mind because you saw something better; it was full of research after research for big and little things that were to be included on this most incredible and most unforgetable day of our lives.

We set the tone with brown and ivory colors, with a dash of red to fall in between here and there.  There was no particular theme (except for this stamped-embossed floral image I used on our invites, programs, and even had the image done on our cake).  But we incorporated hints of our Filipino culture and added some "small-kine" Hawaiian island touches.  While searching for the perfect pillow or pillow carrier for Micah to carry our wedding bands in, and something to set our mini Bible for CJ to walk down the aisle with, we chose the Lauhala (Palm Leaf Eyelet Box) from Bliss Wedding Market.

 

These were perfect since there were two (the actual box and the cover) that were included for such a great price. Jay's sister helped by sewing our pillows to place inside them and tied brown ribbon around the outside part of the boxes.

We also used Bliss Wedding Market's Paperboard CD Case for our cd and program favors.  They have a video tuturiol online on how to create this wedding cd favor with the reception program inside. It was ideal for what I had in mind

I knew I didn't want to make it look too busy on the front, so I stood with the original thought I used for the wedding invitations (with the help from the creative mind of my cuzin Mar).  Story behind the floral image was she held a "Stamp It Up" party one day, and as I was perusing through the catalog, and came across this stamp with a flower shape.  It caught my eye for some reason, and made me think of my other homestate of Hawai'i.  Mar was so convincing that that was it; I needed to use that stamp in the wedding somehow.  And that's how the whole floral concept began.  I thought it symbolized what our wedding was and who we were from the moment our love blossomed in the very beginning in Hawai'i.  It was simple and not too complicating, but yet beautiful and full of Aloha.