A few months ago, I was sent a complimentary copy of  Elizabeth Gilbert’s book “Committed”. I have to admit that I had heard all of the hoopla about her previous book “Eat, Pray, Love” but never really had any interest in reading it until I saw the previews of the movie being made featuring Julia Roberts. I am sad to admit that I do not get around to enjoying a good book too often. When I lived in NYC, I used to relish reading books on the subway to and from work (of course unless there was some really good entertainment walking through the carts). I read more books in my year and a half in NYC than I have in my entire lifetime being a CA native. So when I finally got around to opening my new book, I started with the Note to Readers. I was immediately hooked. I am going out today to purchase “Eat, Pray, Love” so I can start her journey from the beginning.

One of our featured vendors Divine Events by Helena is offering San Diego brides a 25% discount on DOC packages for February and March wedding dates  just for mentioning this blog post! Offer is subject to availability (dates not previously booked) and is valid for events in San Diego county only. Click on the picture above to contact Helena for more details.

I am such a fan of these adorable diy tin can floral arrangements!!! If we ever get our house, you can bet I am going to have these lining my housewarming dinner party table! Such a cute idea for an outdoor wedding!!! Be sure and stop by the I DO it Yourself blog for many many more inspirational DIY ideas!

Get your custom made sterling silver guitar pick here.

I came across this adorable video over on the Story Board Brides blog. I’m guessing that Jason Mraz’s “I’m Yours” was probably 2009’s top wedding song. This little guy would have been a hit at any wedding! Cute!

These gorgeous pics are from my friend Kelly’s wedding this past year. They had the most amazing reception venue with so many fantastic back-drops for photo ops. I referred Kelly & Scott to my own wedding photographer and boy am I glad I did. Their photos turned out beautiful! So my friends, I would like to take this opportunity to introduce you {again} to my favorite wedding photog Sean Loring Schofield with an awesome e-session giveaway!!! Sean is generously offering one lucky Bridal Inquirer reader a free 1-2 hour sitting at any place of your choice. You will also get to keep the cd of your images…can you say HELLO save the dates?!?! But wait…there’s more! If you book Sean as your wedding photog, he will throw in a free 20 page 8×8 leather bound engagement book! I am so excited girls & boys. I LOVE giveaways!!!

How to Win:

All you have to do to be entered to win is comment on this post on why you want to win! I want to hear the best reasons so get creative =)

Contest ends Feb 1, 2010. One winner will be chosen at random and notified via email so please be sure to leave a valid email. E-Session must take place in OC or SD.

{EDIT: CONGRATS TO KATHY…WINNER OF THE FREE E-SESSION FROM SEAN LORING SCHOFIELD}

Getting engaged is one of the MOST exciting times for a girl. I remember how special I felt on the day of my bridal shower. It is something I will remember for the rest of my life. So when I read this story, I teared up a bit thinking how lucky I am that I had both of my grandmothers there with me that day. I am a sucker for anything sentimental and I thought the teacup tradition was so special that I might make my best friends throw a teacup exchange party for my birthday. This way we could use our teacups as an excuse to get together more often. So, my question for you is…did your grandmother/mother/best friend carry on a tradition in your honor?

Introducing Divine Events by Helena…Bridal Inquirer’s newest Featured Vendor!

{photos by Melissa McClure Photography}

Helena is a romantic at heart who loves nothing more than seeing two people join their lives together in marriage and celebration with loved ones. Helena worked as a wedding coordinator’s assistant and gained valuable experience establishing the skill set necessary to successfully plan and execute flawless events. She quickly realized that she wanted to begin planning weddings for her own clients and launched Divine Events by Helena.

Helena offers Day-Of, Day-Of Plus, All Inclusive and Destination Coordination packages. All packages include itinerary development or assistance, day-of vendor coordination and time management. Contact Helena today for a more detailed description of her services and to schedule your free consultation today!

Wines that Rock is a bad-ass collection of wines inspired by rock ‘n’ roll. I am thinking a bottle on each of the wedding guests tables would make an awesome centerpiece and/or conversation piece! Or if the bride & groom are classic rock fans, grab them the rainbow three pack which includes a bottle of each!

Tasting Notes The 2007 Merlot captures the attitude of Mendocino County’s style. Aromas of black cherry, with hints of mint are followed by rich flavors of plum, black cherry, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cedar. This dry red wine is a fine match for herb-roasted chicken, grilled beef, or smoky chili.

Tasting Notes The 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon captures the attitude of Mendocino County’s style. Aromas of black currant and cherry are followed by rich flavors of cassis, toasted vanilla bean, and hints of chocolate. Enjoy this rich dry red wine with hearty chicken dishes, beef and lamb, and red-sauced pasta.

Tasting Notes The Woodstock Chardonnay opens with an enjoyably eclectic mixture of rich pear, mineral and papaya aromas followed by fresh flavors of Asian pear apple, citrus, and tropical fruit with great acid on the finish—or, as Mark likes to say, “sunshine in a bottle.” Enjoy this rich dry white wine with salmon, chicken, creamy soups, and white-sauced pasta.

I already submitted my requests for their next series…ANY of the Led Zeppelin albums, Prince’s Purple Rain and The Eagles. What would you like to see on your next bottle of vino???

Congrats to Kristine…winner of the free DOC from After the Engagement!

Read more about this romantic love story on the Bridal Inquirer Forum.

{P.S. I forgot to ask who the photog is so Kristine, if you read this…do tell! Fab STD!!!}