Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Season's Greetings!


I can't believe how fast this year flew by! and even more so these last few holiday weeks! This holiday season I've been more sentimental than usual and I've taken some time to reflect on the past years ups and downs. As they were happening the downs were pretty devastating and the ups were very exciting. I was/am lucky enough to share those times with some really great old friends and some new ones too. Thanks to everyone who made 2008 my most successful year yet! I can't wait to find out what's in store for next year!

Monday, December 8, 2008

In the Studio

I just realized that I haven't been keeping you current with what's happening with me in the studio. Here are a few pics of some jobs that I just finished.




Let the Good Times Roll-these are some Christmas Open House invitations for my best friend Becky. Her and her husband host a wonderful party each year to celebrate the holidays and her birthday which is on Dec. 23rd. Both have been obsessed with New Orleans since they honeymooned there 10 years ago, and this year they decided on a Mardi Gras themed holiday party and chose the obvious gold, purple, and green as their colors. Should be a super fun time!


Baby Squared- These fun contempory baby shower invitations were created for my friend Monica's neice who is excitedly awaiting twin boys.



Torkelson Farm- Was created for one of my favorite clients who's father is turning the big 9-0 in January. This farm scene charicture was a collaboration between me and Felicia (beloved website guru). We took the past times that Mr. Torkelson enjoys and incorporated into one picture, and I am sure that he'll have a good laugh when he sees it!

Tuesday, December 2, 2008

Featured Vendor: Original Runners




While browsing through Facebook, I found a vendor that I am so excited to feature. Original Runners makes the most intricate and beautiful runners that I have ever seen! Just look at these photos! The designs are so detailed and just simply stunning...This is one time that I have no words, and if you know me you know that I always have words. Here are some quick facts about their runners...
  • Each has an exclusive non-slip backing
  • There are 17 solid colors available, but they are able to create designs and motifs in ANY color
  • Each runner is hand drawn and painted
  • Check out their website to read tons of client testimonials, and all of the press they have received.
Recently, I had a chance to ask Julie Goldman, the mastermind behind Original Runners, some questions about her products and her booming business. Here's what she had to say:

Your aisle runners are so fantastic! Do you develop the artwork yourself, or do you find that most brides have their own logo or monogram that they would like to use?

We can either replicate a design that a client is already using for their event or create something new for them in house. Our team of designers can work with a client’s invitation, linens or even cake topper to come up with a design that will bring the whole event together down the aisle.

With recent orders, or upcoming 2009 orders what are the most popular trends that you're seeing?

We are seeing that brides want their aisle runner to not only be beautiful but unique as possible. The trend right now is incorporating invitation design into the aisle runner so that the programs, menus and aisle runner all have the same theme. It makes for a gorgeous synergy throughout all the bride’s vendors.





You're website is very informative, but what are a few things that potential clients frequently ask?

Many clients ask if they can have any color they want for their monograms and the answer is YES. We can color match to even the smallest swatch so that all the pieces of the event are color coordinated. We are also frequently asked about pricing for our custom aisle runner but this is not as easy to answer. All of our custom aisle runners are hand drawn and hand painted so the length of the aisle and the complexity of the design will determine the price of the product. Since we are constantly creating brand new designs for each client there are no set prices for custom work.

What was the most challenging job that you've had so far?

We recently designed a plaid runner with a family crest for a bride and it required a substantially amount of math and taping to create something this amazing. We are very proud of the results and I am attaching a picture so you can see it too.


From a small business owners perspective, what has been your and/or your business most exciting accomplishment?

Since the day we launched we have been profitable and that almost never happens. We were very lucky to have an aisle runner featured on Lifetime television and the Bachelorette wedding within the first three months of launching. This enabled us to promote our business and create a buzz even though we were a brand new company.
Thank you Julie for taking the time to answer these questions! I wish you much success, and I hope that you get tons of business from New Mexico. Maybe one day one of my invitation design will show up on one of your runners! Wouldn't that be awesome?! - Elva

Monday, December 1, 2008

Christmas shopping? Don't forget about your wedding!

As I was out shopping on Black Friday, I noticed that the traditional Christmas colors of Red and Green or Silver and Blue are not necessarily the norm anymore. In fact, every year I have a different color scheme for wrapping and home décor. This year I am using black, white, and red. Last year I used plum and red, and the year before that it was pink, red, and silver. Anyway, while I was shopping I found so many things that any bride could use, and with all of the holiday sales the prices were amazing. So while you’re Christmas shopping look out for some things that you can use at your wedding like candles, stemware, linens, favor bags or tags, favors, wedding party gifts, chargers, frames, place card holders...just to name a few (the list goes on and on!). These photos are from the Target, Cost Plus, and Pier One websites.

Oh and ladies, this is the perfect time to start gathering all of your guests addresses! Try to remember to hit up family members for the addresses that are on their greeting card lists. Immediately put them in your bridal book, or enter them into a spreadsheet so when it comes time for addressing your invitations you'll be ahead of the game.

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Happy Thanksgiving!


I hope that everyone has the best day today filled with turkey, family, and good times! Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday, and at this time each year I start to become very sentimental and reflect back on the events of the year and all that I am grateful for. Here's my top list (in no particular order):
  • Christopher for always keeping me in check and putting all of daily crisis' into perspective.
  • My two big brothers and parents, for being more supportive of everything that I do than anyone else. I'll throw my nieces and nephews into this one too....
  • I am grateful that I have a job, and work with people that I absolutely adore!
  • The movies, that will be a nice distraction later when we all get sick of each other :)
  • For my little business, that has given me confidence and so many wonderful opportunities and clients that keep my on my toes by challenging me in so many different ways.
  • My oldest favorite friends who have been my personal cheerleaders since forever.

Have a great day everyone, and please be safe!





Saturday, November 15, 2008

Real Wedding: Jeanette and Brandon


I knew when I met Jeanette that I would be in for a treat! Not only were invitations on the "to-do" list, but so were Save the Dates. For those, we designed a fantastic postcard that was made to look like a black and white newspaper classified ad. We used some of the couples engagement photos that where taken by Laura Kay Photography, and each ad was a real life event that occured between them. The picture was posted earlier on the new website sneak preview blog. The invitations were also featured before in a previous blog called "green splendor." This design was the brain candy of Jeanette. She found a picture of an invitation on the knot that she adored, but wanted to change it to make it her own and that we did. Jeanette and Brandon were married in late October at a world reknown golf course in the Sandia Mountains of New Mexico. After getting to know the bride, I knew that each detail of her wedding would be absolutely unbelievable, and I was right. She sent over these pictures the other day, and the took my breathe away. Here are the details, with some in the brides words:

We used Laura Kay Photography for pictures. She is based out of Washington, DC/Virginia and shoots local photography (in/around their area) and travels for special event photography. We chose her because she doesn't just take traditional pictures, her photography is art and captures all the special moments at different angles. Plus, we are related! She is fantastic!

I worked with Judy who was so creative and knowledgable about floral arrangements. We did not want traditional arrangements, so she worked with us to create something unique. They will work within any budget.

For invitations and save the date cards we used... well... you! We could not be more pleased with the invitation and save the date! We got soooo many compliments on the creativity and uniqueness of both. Elva worked with me endlessly until she created the perfect invitation. I found an idea online, and Elva recreated it. Plus, she worked within my budget, and I saved money by assembling the invites myself. Thank you so much for setting the tone for my guests so perfectly as to what to expect during the wedding.

  • Cake - Cakes by Lisa

I was fortunate to have a friend who bakes and creates wedding cakes! Lisa, at Cakes by Lisa, is so creative and will create anything you ask! I wanted a cake with white fondant. On top of the fondant and down the cake, Lisa recreated the floral design that was on the invitations. She even used the same color scheme as the invitations. Each tier was a different flavor, our favorites, red velvet, lemon poppyseed, and oreo. Not only was the cake delicious, the design was perfect.

Congratulations again, Jeanette and Brandon! I hope that you have a life time of joy and hapiness. Thank you for letting me play a tiny role in your fantastic celebration.

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Real Wedding: Laura and Matt

I have finally recieved some photos from one of favorite weddings this year. I previously wrote about Laura and her mom Joanne, and showed a picture of their "Pretty in Pink Polka Dots" invitation design. When all was done their order included invitations, programs, table names, escort cards, thank you cards, favor bags and custom seals, candy signs, and rehearsal dinner invitations. I had so much fun working with these two, and even had the oppurtunity to work at the actual event by setting up table names and escort cards. I even stuck around to help guests find their seats. Take a look at these beauiful wedding photos, that are compliments of Joanne.

Here are the details:

Matt and Laura, you had such a beautiful wedding, and I'm sure that your marriage will be even more so. Congratulations!

If you are a bride or coordinator who wishes to have a wedding featured on this blog, please forward pictures and details to info@elvamariesfinepaper.com for consideration.

Thursday, November 6, 2008

Personalize this!


My boyfriend is a Pringles fanatic, and while I was putting groceries away yesterday I saw that you can create a personalized custom label from their website. So I started wondering what else I can find? I've seen a lot of these before and different weddings and events, but some are pretty unique. What have you seen?

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

Real Wedding: Ally and Colin

I am so excited to finally post my first real wedding from New Mexico. I met Ally and her mom, Jan, in the early part of this year, and was fortunate to be able to add some special touches to their big day. Since Ally lives and works in Denver, Jan ended up doing most of the planning. Everything had to be just right, so we spent a lot of time making decisions on designs, colors, and fonts and we ended up making invitations, programs, escort cards, menus, and table signs. Since we started so early in the design process, Jan had enough time to do all of the assembly herself. Which was awesome because it gave me a little break, and it saved Jan some serious dough!


All of these beautiful photos were taken by Dry Heat Photography. Rick and Deanna knew exactly what to do to capture the exquiste details of this formal affair. Speaking of exquisite affair, did I mention that Karen from Celebrations! Weddings and Events was the day of coordinator? After working with her on this event, I can tell you that she goes way above the call of duty for a day of coordinator. We worked together on the programs, seating chart, etc. Here are the details that I know you all are dying to know:


Thank you Ally and Colin for give my little company a chance to make such a classy impression for your wedding! I wish you both a lifetime of happiness, health, and good times!


If you are a bride or coordinator who wishes to have a wedding featured on this blog, please forward pictures and details to info@elvamariesfinepaper.com for consideration.

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Simply Unique Accessories


Did you know that Elva Marie's Fine Paper is the only authorized vendor of Simply Unique Accessories for the state of New Mexico? This means that I can offer my clients the most luxurious couture invitation accessories from silk invitation boxes and folios to silk covered favor boxes. If you are trying to create an alluring and lasting impression for your event believe me this is the way to go! If you'd like more information on these amazing accessories, contact me directly at info@elvamariesfinepaper.com or check out the Simply Unique Accessories website here. Photo credit: ©2008 Simply Unique Invitations, LLC. All Rights Reserved

Friday, October 31, 2008

Now Accepting Applications!


The 2009 Dream Wedding Contest begins accepting entries starting tomorrow (Nov. 1) until midnight on Dec 31. They are expecting a ton of entries, so be sure to get yours in early! Hurry, hurry because 2 months is sure go by fast... the winner will be revealed on February 22, at the Perfect Wedding Guide Great Diamond Dash bridal show (which, by the way, is the best show of the season).


Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Featured Vendor: Toppers with Glitz

Sometime last year I got in touch with Sari from Toppers with Glitz, because I absolutely loved her cake toppers. I was drawn to the sparkly crystals and beautiful monograms, and I wanted to somehow tell the world about them. After such a chaotic wedding season and school schedule, I have been back in touch with Sari and the honor of my first vendor feature will go to her and her blooming business! Here are a few questions that I asked her recently to find out what is hot in her studio right now!

Do you recommend that your clients have their cake in mind before they contact you or do you find that most of your clients design their cake around their topper?
Like most of my customers, and probably not unlike other designers, I love to have visuals to work with. If I can see the cake, I typically get an immediate picture of "the perfect topper" for it. Making sure the entire cake will look good is always the top priority and most of my customers welcome the input, even if they end up taking a different direction than they initially planned. Hopefully their baker can do the same if the topper is purchased first.


With recent orders, or upcoming 2009 orders what are the most popular color trends that you're seeing?
Tiffany blue was a big color this year and I am curious to see if it will still be big for '09. I am seeing a lot of champagne and ivory,and LOVE the outcome. Swarovski has some really beautiful soft browns that blend extremely well together - Light Colorado Topaz is one of my all time favorites.
You're website is very informative, but what are a few things that potential clients frequently ask?
Hands down, the most frequent question I get asked is with regard to colors. There are so many colors and so many combinations that can be made, it's just not possible for me to address them all on the website.I welcome the questions, phone or email, and am happy to work with each bride, case by case. I also offer complimentary samples so that they colors can be seen in person and matched to their other items.

What was the most challenging job that you've had so far?
I did a table stand for a candle lighting ceremony that was 5" tall and measured almost 2 feet long (pictured above). I had plenty of time to make it but really underestimated how long it would take to crystal. It was the largest item I have taken on to date.
From a small business owners perspective, what has been your and/or your business most exciting accomplishment?
Last year Topper With Glitz was invited to participate in Swarovski's wedding showcase "Unbridaled". I didn't believe I was selected until I saw my products featured in the coffee-table book; a beautiful hard-cover book with designers like "Vera Wang" and "Fendi". The U.S. launch, a red carpet event, is taking place in New York later this year. I dare to dream big but I don't know how much bigger I can dream than this!


Furthermore, Sari goes on to say "I am always trying to expand my product line with relevant items that help complete a coordinated look. Last year I added server sets and bouquet monograms. This year I have added cake trim and toasting flutes."

Sari, Thank you for taking the time to answer all of the questions above! You offer such a beautiful and unique product that I know you will be a HUGE success! -Elva

Changes to blog format




Since I've been blogging pretty regularly lately, I've been doing a lot of thinking and comparison "blogging" to find out what people are really interested in reading about. Since I love anything that has to do with entrepreneurship and beautiful things I thought that my blog would be the perfect outlet to expose some great vendors and friends who have worked really hard to make their name in the industry. Going forward, you'll see vendor interviews, latest trends from real life industry players, and business successes. I also want to highlight real weddings, so if any of brides out there would like to submit your wedding to be featured, send over some pics and details (info@elvamariesfinepaper.com) ! Details about you and your hubby, the day, your vendors (from dress to venue). I hope that brides and vendors alike will enjoy the new format and appreciate the information being posted. I am so excited, and have two interviews in the works, and I'm trying to track down a real wedding! Photo Credit: Tiger Lily Floral

Thursday, October 9, 2008

Dream Wedding Kick Off Party





Here are some pictures of my display from the NM Dream Wedding Kick Off party that was held a few weeks ago. I made the signs that you see for each vendor. Don't forget table signs are an item that I offer to match your wedding stationery suite! Photo Credit: Kyle Zimmerman

Monday, October 6, 2008

The Centerpieces



Here's a closer look at the centerpieces that I did for the Perfect Wedding Guide Customer Appreciation Party in September. I got the idea from Martha Stewart and Mommy Makes Roses. Each rose is made from a total of 8 coffee filters, handpainted with watercolors, and then each petal is curled. The end result was amazing, but it was a lot of work, I mean a lot of work! Next time I'll buy them straight from the source! Here are the MS instructions if you'd like to give it a whirl. The nesting boxes came from Nashville Wraps, and I used Midori double-faced ribbon to add some color to them. Photo Credit: Loren Higgins Photography

Perfect Wedding Guide Blog

Shauna from the Albuquerque Pefect Wedding Guide just announced the new blog that she just launched. Here, she is going to communicate upcoming events, fun stories about other brides, giveaways, and trends in the wedding industry. If you haven't heard about the Perfect Wedding Guide you NEED to check it out! It's a free publication that is filled with a ton of information from the best wedding vendors around town - myself included :) Another cool feature of the magazine is that in every issue there is a real NM wedding featured! You can check out her website here to find out where you can pick one up, or you contact me and I'll send one out to you. The photos above are from the PWG's annual client appreciation party held on September 9. Guess who made the centerpieces? The cupcake towers were from Cake Fetish, and the photos are by Loren Higgins Photography. Congratulations Perfect Wedding Guide for taking this huge leap into the world of blogs!

Friday, September 26, 2008

Great News everyone!



My website gallery has been updates to include tons of new invites that have been done over the last year! My favorite website girl Felicia did such a fabulous job, and I can't think of words to express my gratitude...thank you so much! Check it out!

Thursday, September 25, 2008

DVD Invitations


Last night at the NM Dream Wedding Kick Off Party, I had the opportunity to talk to one of my favorite NM Wedding Professionals Jim Gross from Carousel of Music. He was telling me about his DVD Invitations that are a great idea for a couple wanting to impress their wedding guests with a unique wedding invitation, thank you, or favor. For a pretty reasonable price you can have up to 20 pictures with music, and cool transitions. He’ll even scan or color correct photos for you! His website is very informative and easy to navigate! These are super cool, and are sure to make a great impression for any party, not just weddings. Another great way to get your hands on these sure to be instant hit, would be to enter the $50,000 NM Dream Wedding Contest! Jim will providing the invitations for the winner.

Sunday, September 14, 2008

My color is Grapemist


Sensual. Romantic. Artist. Is that me? This is what the Pantone Colorstology said, so... it must be true! :) Find out what your color is at http://www.colorstrology.com/. When I was little I was drawn to purple. I used to wear an outfit that consisted of light lavender pants, a drk. purple "Where's the Beef" t-shirt, drk. purple sock, light purple velcro tennis shoes, and purple yarn hair ties. My mom would call me the Purple Monster, but not once did she stop me from going out like that. I was 7 I think. Thanks Mommy, for always keeping me on the cutting edge of fashion!

Thursday, September 11, 2008

New Mexico Dream Wedding Kick Off


I am so excited to tell you that this year I have been asked to be a contributing sponsor of the $50,000 New Mexico Dream Wedding Event. I am also excited to tell you that they just announced the venue and it is the spectacular Sandia Resort and Casino! This is a chance of a lifetime for you guys, and all you have to do is write an essay. An essay - that's it! On Sept. 24th the event is hosting their kickoff party at the Albuquerque Marriott Pyramid Hotel. Here are the details:

YOU'RE INVITED!
JOIN US FOR THE
2009 NEW MEXICO DREAM WEDDING KICK OFF PARTY
Wednesday Night, September 24th
5:30-7:30pm
Cost $6.50 per person / $10.00 per couple. Fabulous Food and Prizes
Could It Be YOU?

Check out http://www.nmdreamwedding.com/index.php for all of the contest details/rules and the pictures from last years spectacular event.

Thursday, September 4, 2008

Green Splendor




Take a look at these invites that I just finished for Jeanette and Brandon's upcoming wedding. I love them! Their colors are Shamrock green, black, and white-a perfect combination for their fall wedding that will be held at a beautiful scenic golf course. Congratulations J & B and thanks for the awesome opportunity!

Thursday, August 21, 2008

Beach Theme



I get a ton of inquiries to do beach themed invites, and until recently I've been a bit hesitant to try my hand in designing them. I have never lived by an ocean, and haven't really considered myself "one with the sea." Melissa and Brian were married in Florida in June and I rose to the sea challenge and this is what I came up with! This beautiful photo was taken by Melissa Powell Photography from Ft. Lauderdale. Congratulations Melissa and Brian!

Friday, August 15, 2008

Awesome Accessories





Check out these last minute details that I finished tonight for a couple that is getting married on Saturday. In the end I did their invites, escort cards, menus, table signs, and seat numbers. The latter of which is kind of unusual, but in this instance each guest was assigned a table and a number that was indicated on the escort card. Instead of having a place card at each setting we made numbers that will hang from each guests chair. I can't wait to see how it all turns out! Congratulations Elaina and Matt!