Welcome to the Megan Kocher Wedding and Event Design, LLC Blog. We are glad you are here. Cozy up and get to reading. We have a lot to share with you and are here to offer straight forward, practical advice on everything wedding. One of our favorite things is posting about deals and ways to save, so check back often. It is our belief that with proper planning and know-how, every bride can have an exquisite wedding no matter her budget. It's all in the details...

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

The Flower Fields & Wedding Inspiration, Part I


I recently took a trip to The Flower Fields in Carlsbad. This wasn't my first time there, and I doubt it will be the last year I go. While it continues to get more and more crowded, I think the trip is totally worth it for some wedding inspiration. You'll be seeing several related blog posts coming up, but for now I thought I would share a sneak peek. Enjoy!

The colorful hillside:

Inspiring pops of color:
Using one bold color along with neutrals can make a big statement when it comes to picking your wedding or event colors. Remember, you don't have to go with a typical 2-color scheme. Instead, pick one strong color and back it with creams, white, or brown undertones.

Hydrangeas are one of my favorite flowers. Ok, who am I kidding, I have a place in my heart for just about any flower.
Big blooms can mean having to purchase fewer stems. One large floral can make as big of a statement as several smaller stems combined together. Vases of hydrangeas can easily add elegance to any centerpiece.

I love, love, love ranunculus...
These blooms are perfect for a garden themed wedding or celebration. Bridal shower luncheon anyone? The variety of color and their many layers equal a beautiful arrangement without being over stated.



Friday, April 24, 2009

Matthew and Jaime, To-Be-Weds

Jim Breen, at Breen Film, just sent me these great shots of to-be-weds Jaime and Matthew. They really capture the couple's overall vibe that they are incorporating into their wedding day, which will be about elegant simplicity and taking the time to enjoy every moment. I am so excited for their day and its beautiful location. More on that to come. For now, enjoy the e-pics!













Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Wedding Stimulus

Many assume having a wedding consultant is a luxury. We don't see it that way. No bride, nor her family, should be running around stressed. The day goes quickly; you should be afforded the right to take in every moment. Having a planner can ensure that you are not the one finding the cake knife or getting a stain out of your bridesmaid's dress. That being said, we know that many are trying to stretch their budgets as far as possible, and many brides are feeling stressed with their summer weddings quickly approaching.

I started this business because I have a strong desire to see everyone fully enjoy and take in their wedding day. This is why I am currently offering 1/2 off our 'Celebrate the Day' day-of-coordination package for any available summer 2009 dates. I truly believe every bride deserves a consultant.

Please contact us for further details or to set up a complimentary initial consultation. Congratulations to everyone getting married this wedding season!



Friday, April 17, 2009

Semi DIY Pom Poms

The other day while running errands, I had to stop and whip out my camera. Here's what caught my eye:






The lovely folks at Martha Stewart have come up with a kit for tissue paper pom poms.

Tissue paper pom poms started popping up all over the place at weddings a few years ago. Now, you must remember to be tasteful when using tissue as decor. However, if you are looking to add a little whimsy to part of your ceremony or reception, these creations may just do the trick. Martha even has a how-to guide for using them as a garland on your get away car. If you have the time and would like to make them from scratch, you could also follow their instructions on the Martha Stewart Weddings website.

Happy crafting!


Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Marriage and Taxes

As we all know all too well, April 15 is tax day. Not a day any of us look forward to - unless it's your birthday? However, now is a great time to take into consideration how your married status will affect your tax status. Don't fret! I know that many don't find it fun to talk about money. However, with some careful planning from the get go, you can avoid a lot problems.

No matter when you get married in the year, your marital status on December 31 is your marital status for all of 2009. Thus, if you get married in 2009, you will be 'married' on your next tax return. Regardless of this 'married' status, it is up to you and your spouse to decide if you want to file jointly. While in most circumstances it will be of greater benefit for you to file jointly instead of separately, check now with your financial advisor. Don't wait until it comes time to file your taxes next year, because you may want to adjust your withholding. Who knows, you may even end up with more cash in your hands.

Either way, the best way to keep things from becoming a problem is to talk about them early and openly. This goes for all aspects of your marriage, and not just your taxes and money.

Sunday, April 12, 2009

Happy Easter

Wishing you much joy on Easter...



Friday, April 10, 2009

Organization Is The Key To A Beautiful Wedding

I will probably expand upon this topic at a later date, but for now I just want to put this thought out there:

What makes your wedding beautiful is not the amount of money you can spend but the amount of time you spend organizing everything and paying attention to the details. I believe a beautiful wedding is one where every detail is so thoroughly planned out in advance, everyone involved can relax and take it all in on the big day. And ultimately, the greatest beauty is found in the love shared between the two uniting in marriage.



Monday, April 6, 2009

Scuff Your Shoes

Today's words of wisdom: always remember to scuff the bottoms of your shoes before your wedding day. New dress shoes can be very slippery. To prevent a fall, make sure to rough up the bottoms. In addition, it is always a good idea to wear your shoes around the house to make sure that you are comfortable in them and able to break them in.