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You, Your Family, and Your Wedding.

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Your family's right behind you, all the way. For this bride, literally!

By their nature, most weddings (the exceptions being these excercises in opulent navel gazing and their brethren) are about celebrating the family. Yours, his, and the great big new one that just came together.

But making planning the event a family affair makes a lot of brides break out in hives.  And it’s understandable. There are always enough opinions to go around, and when some of them come from people who drive you a little over the edge to begin with, things can get a little tense.  How can’t however, shut everyone out, particularly if they are helping pay for your big day.  Here are a few ways to integrate the bunch into your plans without going bananas.

  • Supermodel, Work!  Nothing makes female relatives feel more “in” on the process than a trip to the bridal salons to watch you do your best runway walk in gorgeous gowns.  It doesn’t have to be “the” time you plan to buy, or even “the” store you plan to visit.  Make an appointment, and try on a variety of shapes and styles.  Even better, let each woman who’s with you pick a dress for you to try.
  • Scavenger Hunt.  Have you been looking for ¾ inch gold ribbon? Rhinestone swizzle sticks? Is Aunt Sue on your last nerve about how you’re not organized properly? Send her on a treasure hunt for those last items you need that are hard to find, or available only at that one store on the other side of town.  She’ll feel useful, and you’ll get some peace and quiet.
  • Keep the content current on BNN – The Bridal News Network.  There are going to be people who you’re not in touch with daily who’ll want to feel like insiders.  Whether it’s a weekly call to Grandma, or a blog for far-flung sorority sisters, make sure that those who want news get it.

Families go a little haywire when it comes to weddings. But they love you, and are only making you crazy because they want to share this special experience, too. Handle as you do all things you love – with care.

Care well, and love well.

-Dinah

 

 

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Phew! We’re exhaling happily as Valentine’s 2011 fades to black

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Hear that? That’s the sound of the My Little Flower Shop team singing the praises of Father Time for getting Valentine’s Day behind us so successfully. Thanks to everyone who made it possible, meaning both employees and customers. V-day is the second biggest holiday in the Floral world, first being Mothers’ Day.  Both lead to a certain level of chaos around the store, but it’s always fun. There’s something cool about being part of a floral design marathon that leaves you ankle deep in stems, leaves and little scraps of ribbon.  Plus, if you ever want to witness pure happiness, volunteer to deliver Valentine flowers.  I guarantee, no one has ever been more glad to see you than that little blonde at H&R Block getting her first dozen roses in front of an office full of co-workers. You will suddenly understand why people name their children “Joy” because you will witness its’ beauty.

The aforementioned aftermath in the store is not so beautiful, but I thought I’d share this shot of our dear Alan (an extremely talented designer) among the wreckage so that people could see the flip side.  It may not be the beautiful part, but it is the stuff joy is made of, and that, I believe, is what drives us as designers.  The secret? We create joy the other 363 days a year – not just Valentine’s and Mothers’ Day. We’re happy to spread it your direction. You know where to find us.