Friday, January 27, 2012

Meet Britt Story from TheKnot

The Bridal Solution, along with the Hospitality Management Department from the University of Missouri are pleased to announce that Britt Story from TheKnot will be attending Bridal University 2012.

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Hi, my name is Britt Story and I am with The Knot. I have been with The Knot since July of 2010. Besides working for THE #1 wedding brand, I also have had the pleasure of getting to know and work with who I would arguably consider to be some of the best vendors in the wedding industry. Not to mention, I’ve had the pleasure of being in my fair share of weddings all over the country. From selecting the perfect dress to reception details and ending with luxurious honeymoons I have the entire wedding process down to a “T”. When working in such an extraordinary industry you cultivate strong relationships with new clients while always exceeding expectations with existing clients. Being knowledgeable about the wedding business is something I have taken great pride in over the last year and a half. I have attended many bridal shows and bridal events to which I learned and gathered valuable information from other professionals in the industry. I’ve also been known to work weddings with vendors from time to time to get an inside point of view. I’m a member of the Association of Bridal Consultants and International Special Events Society. I attended Southeast Missouri State University where I majored in Public Relations and Hospitality management. With the education I received and the experience I’ve acquired, I have had many doors opened for me in the wedding industry to utilize my skills and hard-working personality and impart wisdom and advice to vendors and brides. Check out TheKnot.com and WeddingChannel.com for inspiration, useful tools and resources to help you plan the wedding of your dreams!

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We are thrilled that Ms. Story will be involved in Bridal University! To register for Bridal U, please head over to theBridalU.com and click on "Early Bird Registration." Tickets are only $10.00.


Happy Planning!
Natalie Imhoff


thebridalsolution@gmail.com
The Bridal Solution on Facebook
The Bridal Solution on Twitter

Thursday, January 26, 2012

Please Help me Welcome ...

So ware SO excited to announce our newest sponsor for Bridal University 2012 ....

Please help me welcome ....



Britt Story from TheKnot will help host the 2012 Bridal University being held on the Stephen's College Campus. This is huge, as Brides from all over the country recognize TheKnot's successful brand, read their magazines, and get inspiration and tips from their website.

For ticket information, please visit theBridalU.com and click "early bird registration." You will not want to miss this opportunity. Brides who register will not only be able to meet Ms. Story, but will also receive a goodie bag and free tshirt. Not to mention have a change to win some great giveaways from selected vendors. Everything from a free night's stay on your wedding night courtesy of the Courtyard Marriott, bags from 31 and a beautiful piece of jewelry from Stella & Dot.

This one day only event is on February 19, 2012 in the Kimball Ballroom on Stephen's College Campus. For more information, please head to our website at http://www.theBridalU.com.


Happy Planning!
Natalie Imhoff


thebridalsolution@gmail.com
The Bridal Solution on Facebook

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

LAST TICKETS ON SALE!!



To register, click the "Earlybird Registration" tab at www.theBridalU.com and register for just $10.00!


Happy Planning!
Natalie Imhoff


thebridalsolution@gmail.com
The Bridal Solution on Facebook
The Bridal Solution on Twitter

Tuesday, January 24, 2012

PR: Brides Choice Award 2012

PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release

Natalie Imhoff
The Bridal Solution, llc.
573-808-3112
thebridalsolution@gmail.com


The Bridal Solution Receives Prestigious Industry Award 3rd year in a Row

{Jefferson City,MO} – January 23, 2012 – WeddingWire, the nation's leading wedding Marketplace, is excited to announce The Bridal Solution has been selected to receive the prestigious WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2012 for Wedding Planning!

The esteemed annual awards program recognizes the top local wedding vendors from the WeddingWire Network who demonstrate excellence in quality, service, responsiveness and professionalism within the wedding industry. While many industry awards are selected by the organization, The Bridal Solution was selected based on its stellar reviews from past newlywed clients.

The Bridal Solution is recognized as part of the top five percent of wedding professionals in the WeddingWire local vendor community, comprised of over 200,000 wedding professionals throughout the United States and Canada. The Bride’s Choice Award recognizes the best local wedding vendors across 20 service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers, based on their overall professional achievements throughout the past year.

“WeddingWire is thrilled to honor the success of the top-rated wedding professionals within the WeddingWire Community,” said Timothy Chi, CEO, WeddingWire. “Since the launch of the Bride’s Choice Awards™ program four years ago, thousands of outstanding wedding professionals have been recognized by the bridal community for their supreme service and dedication to the wedding industry. It is with great pleasure that we congratulate The Bridal Solution for their continued professionalism and commitment to enriching the wedding planning experience for engaged couples.”

We are happy to announce that The Bridal Solution is one of the very best Wedding Planners within the WeddingWire Network, which includes leading wedding planning sites WeddingWire, Project Wedding, Brides.com, Martha Stewart Weddings, and Weddingbee. We would like to thank our past clients for taking the time to review our business on WeddingWire. Thanks to their positive feedback we were able to receive the WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards™ for 2012.

For more information, please visit our WeddingWire Storefront today at http://www.weddingwire.com/biz/the-bridal-solution-jefferson-city/abde15d52043b989.html.

To learn more about the Bride's Choice Awards™, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.

About WeddingWire, Inc.
WeddingWire™, the nation's leading marketplace serving the $70 billion wedding industry, is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding professionals. For engaged couples, WeddingWire offers the ability to search, compare and book over 200,000 reviewed wedding vendors, from wedding venues to wedding photographers. WeddingWire also offers a comprehensive suite of online planning tools for weddings, including wedding websites and wedding checklists, all at no charge. For wedding professionals, WeddingWire is the only all-in-one marketing platform for businesses online and on-the-go. WeddingWire offers one simple solution to build a professional network, improve search visibility, manage social media and reach mobile consumers. Businesses that advertise with WeddingWire appear on WeddingWire.com, ProjectWedding.com and other leading sites, including MarthaStewartWeddings.com (NYSE: MSO), Brides.com and Weddingbee.com.

About the Company
The Bridal Solution, launched by Natalie Imhoff in January 2009, is a Mid-Missouri wedding and event planning firm. The firm distinguishes itself through its combination of fresh design inspiration and a memorable client experience. The Bridal Solution meets today’s bride’s high expectations and desire for uniqueness – and removes time intensive tasks and stresses common to planning a wedding or significant special event. Natalie and her event team are available to assist brides through the planning process with as much or as little help they may need. The Bridal Solution was awarded the 2011 Brides Choice Award placing the firm among the top five percent of wedding professionals in the WeddingWire Community.
For further information, please visit us at http://www.thebridalsolutionllc.com or on facebook at http://www.facebook.com/thebridalsolution.

Natalie M. Imhoff
The Bridal Solution, llc.
405 Mesa Avenue
Jefferson City, Missouri 65101
573-808-3112
Thebridalsolution{at}gmail{dot}com

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Happy Planning!
Natalie Imhoff


thebridalsolution@gmail.com
The Bridal Solution on Facebook
The Bridal Solution on Twitter

Monday, January 16, 2012

Real Wedding: Kristen & Taylor

Swoon fest ... this backyard chic wedding was done with perfection! Down to the personalized drink labels, food truck and yard games. ooh la la!








It just goes to show you it doesn't matter the budget, you can have a beautiful wedding, perfectly executed, and fun for all of your guests.

[source]


Happy Planning!
Natalie Imhoff


thebridalsolution@gmail.com
The Bridal Solution on Facebook
The Bridal Solution on Twitter

Friday, January 13, 2012

Brides Choice Awards: 2012

We are THRILLED to announce we have once again received the WeddingWire's Brides Choice Award for 2012! We couldn't be more excited! A HUGE thank you to everyone who voted and gave rave reviews to The Bridal Solution! We LOVE our past clients, and am so glad they loved us too!!



You can find the Bridal Solution on WeddingWire at www.weddingwire.com/thebridalsolution


Happy Planning!
Natalie Imhoff


thebridalsolution@gmail.com
The Bridal Solution on Facebook
The Bridal Solution on Twitter

Thursday, January 12, 2012

TBS AD - BRIDAL U: Inside Columbia

Thank you to our Sponsor INSIDE COLUMBIA! Have your checked out Bridal U's Ad in this month's Issue on Inside Columbia's Magazine?



For additional information on Bridal University, please check out our website at www.theBridalU.com, or make your way to our Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/theBridalU


Happy Planning!
Natalie Imhoff


thebridalsolution@gmail.com
The Bridal Solution on Facebook
The Bridal Solution on Twitter

Friday, January 6, 2012

The Brides Guide to Bridal Shows

In laue of our upcoming bridal show ... SUNDAY at the Firley YMCA in Jefferson City, MO, I thought I would give all you brides to be some helpful tips for attending your local wedding shows. It's soo important to attend, not only to meet with local wedding experts, but to see the latest trends. Here is how to get the most out of the show.

Here are The Bridal Solution's TOP TEN TIPS FOR BRIDAL SHOW SUCCESS ...


1. ARRIVE EARLY
The most popular and best vendors are going to be saving the dates for brides who know exactly what they want, and are ready to book. It's pretty much a first come, first serve type basis. You'll want to book at a bridal show, because you will get the best deals, a discount if you book right then and there, as apposed to calling before or after.

2. PRE-REGISTER BEFORE THE SHOW
Save time by registering before the show. Registration only takes a few minutes and will save you from having to fill out a registration form at the show. You'll skip the lines, and be ready to make your way in faster.

3. BRING PEOPLE YOU TRUST
Bringing your friends or close family members to the bridal show will help them feel involved and also give you a chance to bounce ideas back and forth. They will be able to give you advice, or maybe they have used that particular vendor before. Connections, connections, connections!

4. CONTACT LABELS
This is probably the most important tip. BRING ADDRESS LABELS with you phone number attached. Each vendor will most likely have a drawling for prizes at their booths.
Instead of having to fill out multiple forms with your contact info, prepare some electronic labels before the bridal show. Information to include: your name, address, phone number, and email address & wedding date.

5. BRING A PEN AND NOTEBOOK
Bring a notebook and pen so you can take notes. Write down contact info of vendors you talked to or thoughts you have while attending the bridal show. Inside tip: If they give you an estimated quote, you're more likely to get that price if you book with them.

6. BRING A DIGITAL CAMERA
Bringing a simple digital camera will allow you to quickly remember some of the great things you saw at the show. Did you see a great dress during a bridal fashion show? Maybe there is a great cake from a wedding cake designer. Cameras will also help you remember which booth you liked best. Sometimes their cards and info will get lost, but if you see their booth, it will bring back conversations.

7. KNOW YOUR BUDGET
Setting your wedding budget and knowing who is responsible for each thing will help you make decisions and know what you are looking for while attending the show.

8. BRING YOUR CHECKBOOK
Many wedding vendors will offer a special day-of-the-bridal-show-only discount. This will help you save even more money if you are able to find your vendor at bridal show. Remember, some vendors book up quick, and it's an easy way to get it off your plate right away, and gives you the bride a peach of mind.

9. DO YOUR RESEARCH
Know which wedding services you need before the show. Also try to find out which wedding vendors will be exhibiting. This will help you know what questions to ask and allow you to visit those vendors you are particularly interested in. ALSO, if the particular booth does not give references, ask them for them. They will be glad to give them to you ... and if not ... well, you have your answer!

10. MAKE A DAY OF IT
Plan on attending the bridal show for several hours. This will allow you to visit all the vendors and find everything you need. Above all – have fun!


Come visit me SUNDAY, JANUARY 8 FROM 11:00 to 4:00 PM @ THE BRIDAL SPECTACULAR HELD AT THE FIRLEY YMCA OFF OF ELLIS BLVD, JEFFERSON CITY, MO.


Happy Planning!
Natalie Imhoff


thebridalsolution@gmail.com
The Bridal Solution on Facebook
The Bridal Solution on Twitter

Thursday, January 5, 2012

TBS Inspiration: DIY Yarn Chadeliers

A perfect fit for the DIY bride, check out these DIY yarn ball chandeliers. They are beautiful in white or make a more bold impact by choosing more vibrant colors.


They are also extremely easy easy to make!



So here's the skinny ...

Instructions:

1. Blow up balloons to the sizes you prefer. It's better if they range in size.
2. You'll need to have corn starch, glue (white or clear) and warm water on hand. Mix them all together to create a paste. You've mixed it enough when it becomes a smooth texture.
3. Take Vaseline and rub over the entire balloon. This ensures the paste will not stick to the balloon when it's dry.
4. Run the yarn through the paste and wrap around the balloon, keep repeating until the balloon is covered to your liking. Remember to change directions constantly to keep it interesting.
5. The hardest part of this DIY project is waiting until it's dry completely. You'll need to wait at least 24 hours. After it's dry, pop the balloon.
6. The last step is important. Remember to spray your yarn ball with CLEAR fast drying spray paint.

[Source]

Happy Planning!
Natalie Imhoff


thebridalsolution@gmail.com
The Bridal Solution on Facebook

Tuesday, January 3, 2012

TBS Tip: How to Save on your F&B

When times are tough like they are now, it's hard to find couples who aren't on a budget. In fact, it just doesn't happen any more. The more couples I meet are trying to find ways to cut their costs, without having guests notice.

One of the largest cost in a wedding is the F&B [Food and Beverage.] Of course this cost goes up the more guests you have. So, if you are planning on having a decent size wedding, listen up ... here are some great tips to help lower your costs!



1. Outside Caterers - Find a venue who will allow you to bring in your own food and beverage. Places like hotels and resorts depend on food and beverages to off set their costs, so you will pay more for their food and services. But if you can find a venue who does not have a specific caterer, or allows you to bring in your own, you can cut the cost almost in half.

2. Pass on Appetizers - Forget the fluff. There is no reason your guests will need a lot to eat before your serve them dinner. Try not to make them wait too long, but if you can get away with it, skip the hors d’oeuvres. You're guests really wont notice, and it's an extra cost that can be cut. If you MUST have appetizers available for your guests, have them placed buffet style, and save the money would would have spent on having them passed by servers.

3. Scale Back your Menu - Instead of serving a duel entree, keep it simple. Select a meat, starch, veggie and choose an extra side. Your guests won't notice one bit. I do recommend having a vegetarian option available just in case though.

4. Serve Breakfast or Brunch - When the couple is on an extremely tight budget, I always recommend serving breakfast or brunch. It's fun anyways and will save you a ton of money. In fact, a couple of years back we planned a "Breakfast at Tiffany's Wedding" were we served eggs Benedict and mimosas. It was fabulous!

5. Kids Meals - Make sure if you are hosting families with small children that you give them another meal option. They don't want to eat a big steak and salad. Instead, select something like chicken fingers or macaroni and cheese. It will save you in the long run!

6. Stick with Cake - Don't worry about having a fancy dessert bar, instead just serve cake. Your guests will be just fine! If you're worried about it, have a cake with different favors to keep it interesting.

7. Sheet Cakes - When times are tough, you have to make the best choices. One of the easiest ways I have brides save money is by having their wedding cake, but not going overboard. For instance, instead of having a 6 tier cake to feed all of your guests, downsize to a 3 tiered cake and have sheet cakes prepared ahead of time in the back. The guests wont know the difference!

8. The Bar - Whatever you do, don't make your guests pay for their own alcohol. It's not worth it and it looks cheap. Instead, select a couple of options for your guests. Choose a beer, wine and a specialty drink and leave it to that!

For additional ideas on how to save money on your wedding, contact Natalie at The Bridal Solution. Weddings are expensive, but theirs no reason not to save where you can!

Happy Planning!
Natalie Imhoff


thebridalsolution@gmail.com
The Bridal Solution on Facebook
The Bridal Solution on Twitter

Monday, January 2, 2012

TBS Tip: Mizzou Football Schedule

Every Mid-Missouri Bride knows, that if they are hosting their wedding in the City of Columbia during Football Season, you better check the schedule.

It's so important to know the dates of the football games, because Columbia becomes almost impossible to get around. If a bride has a lot of out-of-town guests coming in for the wedding, they will most likely be split up between hotels with one of two rooms left. Most hotels in Columbia book out a year in advance during home games, which means you're guests may not even have a place to stay.

If a bride is planning on using one of the down town church's for their ceremony, parking for your guests will be extremely limited.

It's better to know the schedule, and to plan around it!! Because of the conference change this year, the football schedule has changed. WHICH MEANS, if you thought you were in the clear, you may in fact be having your wedding on a game day. Below is the schedule ...



[Source]

If your wedding day is now on a home football game weekend, don't get too upset. Call The Bridal Solution and we'll calmly walk you through the next steps in the planning process to ensure their is not too much of a conflict!


Happy Planning!
Natalie Imhoff


thebridalsolution@gmail.com
The Bridal Solution on Facebook
The Bridal Solution on Twitter
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