Well, it’s almost Christmastime … the season where we all do last minute shopping, go on Christmas light hunting rides and enjoy time with family and friends. I hope you enjoy these Christmas “blogiday” postings as I review some oldies but goodies from the vault.

One thing I love about blogging is the opportunity to not only provide you with great wedding ideas and beautiful photos, but I also enjoy having experts impart their knowledge to you by writing articles for Hill City Bride! I am thrilled for you to read the debut column by Liz Cook of Sincerely, Liz: Photography,  just click here to learn more about her. 

To kick off my column here at Hill City Bride, I knew my ultimate goal was to share advice with brides-to-be about their wedding photography. Let’s just say, if I could go back and do it all again, I would change more than just a few things about my own wedding photography experience. It wasn’t bad; it just wasn’t what I wanted. This month, I want to talk to you about what I believe should be your first step in getting the most of your wedding photography: knowing what you want.

In my search for a wedding photographer, it didn’t exactly occur to me that the person would be there to capture the memories of the day. I know, that’s kind of embarrassing to admit. The truth is, all I was thinking about were the beautiful portraits we would have after the day was over. While that was something that was important to me, I completely overlooked all the other memories of the day. I want to make sure you don’t make the same mistake.

So my first piece of advice to you is to sit down with a pencil and paper and brainstorm. Seriously think about what comes to mind when you imagine your wedding pictures. Make a list of the images you dream of, ask your married friends about their photography experiences, and think about the products you would like to have after all is said and done.

Do you dream of a beautiful storybook album that holds all the memories of your day?

Do you want to remember the look on your groom’s face as he catches his first glimpse of you coming down the aisle?

Write it down.

After you have made your list of what is important to you, keep it with you as you start your research of possible wedding photographers. While browsing through online portfolios, look first for the images on your list. When reading about what the photographer offers, keep in mind the products you want. If you come across a photographer whose portfolio shows images you dream of and products you want, make a note of the photographer’s name and contact information and continue your research.

The pictures will be one of the only things left when your wedding day is behind you. Know what you want before you choose your wedding photographer. Make sure he or she has a shooting style you enjoy, images in their portfolio that you are dreaming of, and offers the type of products you are interested in.

Wedding photography is a huge investment in your wedding day, you will want to do it right the first time!

Thank you, Liz, for your wise advice to our brides! Be sure to check out all of the quality photographers and vendors we have on the right hand side of the site … there is sure to be one that will meet your style needs. To view Liz’s site, just click here, and all of the photographs in this article were taken by Liz herself.

Well, it’s almost Christmastime … the season where we all do last minute shopping, go on Christmas light hunting rides and enjoy time with family and friends. I hope you enjoy these Christmas “blogiday” postings as I review some oldies but goodies from the vault.

One of the things I really enjoy about Lynchburg is the downtown area, and the revitalization of the City of Lynchburg has been such a success! With new businesses (and old, thriving businesses) housed in historic buildings, it makes for an eclectic mix of people and opportunities. Our downtown abounds with hotels, restaurants and unique shops along with the Community Market and the Academy of Fine Arts. Honestly, I can not think of another downtown that has a “small town feel” yet has so many “big city” offerings … I love it!!

Nestled in among historic buildings on Commerce Street is one such treasure in the form of Tresca on 8th. For a bride who is planning her wedding and/or reception, this could be the perfect spot! The building itself was built in 1892, and its rich history has allowed it to serve as a hardware store, a wholesale grocery and a shoe store. Tresca still has her original hardwood floors, windows, columns and staircase, and the result is breathtaking!

Tresca on 8th‘s 5,500 square foot ballroom is on the main level, and this large room boasts beautiful columns, which gives the space e an intimate feel.  A second level expansion for 2011 is planned, which will allow for a separate lounge and dressing rooms, providing this event venue with an additional 2,500 square feet of usable space. Currently, their capacity is 300 guests (250 if seated), but after the upstairs is complete, it will hold 400 guests (325 if seated). Plentiful parking is available adjacent to the building.

If the photos of Tresca on 8th are not enough to convince you of the beauty and flexibility of this venue, just take a quick view of some of the benefits of using this space:

• Flexible venue space that allows for several different arrangements based on the needs of the bride.
• One location that can be used for both the ceremony and reception.
• Unique space that can be decorated on any budget.

• Vendor flexibility, which allows the bride to choose her own vendors.
• Beautiful staircase to allow the bride and bridal party to make a grand entrance into the reception.
• On site coordinators available for the event.

With all that Tresca has to offer, it is no wonder that this is fast becoming one of “the” places to tie the knot and celebrate afterwards. I encourage you to take a trip to Commerce Street and discover this beautiful venue for yourself.

To find out more about Tresca on 8th, feel free to visit their website or call (434)229-8519. Tresca can be found at 724 Commerce Street, Lynchburg VA. Photo credits – first photo: Adam Barnes Fine Art Photography, all other photos by DuckDuck Collective.

I love shopping local because I know that I am putting money back into my community while supporting my friends. Sometimes it seems like more effort than just going to a big box store, but it really is worth it. Plus, I really enjoy supporting my friends (and making new ones!).

I asked the advertisers of HCB to come up with some creative gift giving and holiday entertaining ideas to make your holidays easier.Yes, I know that they are known as “wedding” vendors, but they really are so much more. All of the ideas contain clickable links on the business name. Take a peek …

For those who love fashion and accessories:

For the girl who likes a little sparkle, why not stop by Celebration on Main Street in Downtown Lynchburg? They offer jewelry and accessories for special occasions … you may even find a little “bling” for yourself for New Year’s Eve!

For something very special, why not stop by Bowen Jewelry in Downtown Lynchburg? They offer gift certificates along with beautiful jewelry that will bit any budget. My personal favorite is their estate line … so many beautiful items to choose from!

Are you in need of a dress for the holidays? Well, stop by Church Street Bridal in Downtown Lynchburg. They have a wonderful selection of beautiful gowns (not just for brides, but also for special occasions … trust me!) in a plethora of colors to choose from.

For help with your holiday (or future) entertaining:

If you are hosting a Christmas get together, why not take the time to relax a little? Love Is in the Air can help you with your catering and centerpiece needs … it’s the holidays, and you deserve to enjoy your own event.

If you have “visions of sugarplums dancing in your head”, but you do not have time to make any sweets yourself, you should give La Bella Torta a try (really, do!!). They offer cookies, pastries, gift baskets and pies … or a gift certificate towards a special occasion cake would be a wonderful option, too.

Many times music makes (or breaks) a party, right? We’ve all been there! Well, Official Entertainment can help with your own celebration, or you can give gift certificate for their services … how fun would that be? From the Big Band sounds of the 40s to the Billboard’s Hot 100 of today, they have you covered.

Photo booths are a TON of fun, so guess what? The Virginia Photo Booth Company is offering a 25% discount on any of their photo booths during 2012 when you purchase one as a gift … what a fun option for a party!

Do you have an event coming up or know someone else who will soon? The gift of an intimate event space is perfect! Tresca on 8th is known for their big, beautiful ballroom, but they also have a lovely space upstairs with comfortable conversation areas for up to 60 people. It is a great place to host a shower or other small affair.

For any occasion, RS Exclusive can help out … whether is in in the area of decor or coming up with a fun color coordinate “candy bar”, a certificate for their services will help out even the most savvy hostess.

For those who love memories (or anyone!):

The gift of memories is one that will last a lifetime, so why not create some with Stone Blue Productions? A gift certificate would be perfect for any type of photo session … they also offer canvas prints and quality albums for showing off those great moments. As Jeremiah said, “Great memories are always in style.”

Need a gift for a whole family? Consider a gift certificate from Jane Bradley Photography for a fun filled family photo session. It is a gift that they will treasure for years to come!

Who doesn’t love a sale? If you purchase a gift certificate for a session with Visions by Heather Photography, you will receive a $50 portrait credit in December … either keep the credit for yourself or add that in as an extra little gift for the recipient. How fun!

KD Burke Photography has a style all their own, and they offer gift certificates for all of their services … sessions, prints and the like. Give memories as a gift this year.

For those who love to shop:

If you have never been to The Farm Basket, you are really missing out! They have a lot of gift ideas … from Vera Bradley to items to help out in the kitchen, they really do have an amazing selection. When in doubt, give a gift certificate, which can be used towards merchandise or even a delicious lunch (my favorite is the chicken salad!!).

At Your Service Events Planner offers Carlson Craft gift certificates, which would be perfect for those who love things that are personalized.

Have you been to The Corset Corner lately? Not only do they have beautiful, quality intimates, but they recently opened an entire gift section of their shop on Main Street in Downtown Lynchburg.

For a little pampering:

If you want to give the gift of beauty or pampering, why not consider a certificate to one of our spas? SPA 4109 or Bodyworks Day Spa and Salon are sure to treat your recipient right (or even you … wouldn’t you love a massage during all of the holiday hustle and bustle?). Both stores are in the Boonsboro area and also offer lots of little pick me ups (such as shampoos and beauty items) that make wonderful, luxurious gifts.

If you are looking to stuff that stocking (whether it be for a man or a woman, mind you), Mary Kay has plenty of offerings … from nail polish to soothing lip treatments, they can add that “oomph” to an otherwise blah stocking.

For a new look either pre or post holiday, consider paying Mitchell’s Salon on 7th in Altavista a visit … they are in the hair business, which is their definite area of expertise!

To surprise the man in your life:

For the man in your life (oh yes!), why not schedule a session with DulceNoche, a division of Allegra’s Studio, and present him with a Little Black Book (filled with sultry photos of YOU). Yes, you can still have your session and images back by Christmas.

Speaking of fun photos, you can stop by Boudoir in Boonsboro and pick up a little pretty something for yourself or even another family member … they offer pretty lingerie along with pajamas that are “Christmas morning photo appropriate”, and they also have accessories and other fun things, too!

And, finally, to beat those holiday blahs and bloats:

Are you worried about how you will look and/or feel for those holiday parties? It Works has a whole line of vitamins to keep you healthy along with their slimming body wraps … who says you have to leave the holidays with extra fluff around your middle? No muffin tops here!

If you want more ideas, just check out all of the links to the right … I love our family of vendors, and I hope you will support them this Christmas season.

So, hopefully you have grown to know and love me throughout my blogging, so I have a true confession … what is a perk of being in the wedding business??? CAKE!! Yes, almost no matter what is on the inside or the outside, I just can not wait to delve into the moist inside and creamy outside of a delectable cake. Plus, they are just so beautiful … an edible work of art.

Recently, I was perusing the website of Martha Stewart Weddings, and I came across these beauties below. Take a peek!

The beauty and simplicity of the geometry created by the circles is so pleasing to the eye. I am not sure if I like the paneled cake, but it surely interesting!

Art Deco (left) or Art Nouveau (right)? The choice is yours, but these cakes both represent the beauty of former eras.

Black and white cakes have been popular for a while, but why not try adding a pop of color to be unique and add interest? Ahhh … church bells, Christmas bells or wedding bells? You decide, but how cute is that cake idea?

Taking cues from nature? These piped roses add a bit of pop (and you can trade out the roses for whatever you would like!). The simplicity of the golden apples atop a naked layer cake adds an element of sophistication.

Craving more? Well, these are just 8 out of 50 cakes that were featured on Martha Stewart Weddings, so just click HERE to head on over to their gallery to seek your own inspiration.  If you would like to see the portfolios of our trusted HCB vendors just head on over to the websites of La Bella Torta and Love Is in the Air.

How many of us have a closet full of clothes, yet we stare at that closet so many times claiming to have “nothing to wear”? What we don on our bodies can determine our mood and make us feel ready to take charge of the world or make us want to crawl under a rock for the day. Have you been there? I certainly have!

Well, it’s no wonder that with a bride wanting to look and feel her best on her wedding day, one of the first (and most exciting!) things that a newly engaged girl does is go on the hunt for the perfect dress. No matter her style, size, tastes or budget, finding that “wow” wedding gown is so much fun and such a relief to check off of the wedding “to do” list.

Mary, our I Dream of a Wedding winner, recently visited Lynchburg’s full service bridal salon, Celebration, who offered Mary a wedding gown valued at up to $1000! I am so thankful for Celebration’s generosity and willingness to participate in our first annual giveaway of a dream wedding.

Celebration can meet the needs of not only the bride but her entire wedding party … including the mothers of both the bride and groom. With wedding gowns, bridesmaids dresses, tuxes and accessories, paying them a visit in downtown Lynchburg is not only a way to find the perfect dress, but it is also a way to gain friends along the way. The girls at Celebration are there to help you find that gown that you can really picture yourself wearing while walking down the aisle and/or dancing the night away. I would encourage you to pay them a visit!

Mary had fun trying on the gowns at Celebration with the aid of their helpful staff, and Heather Cheatham of Visions by Heather was there to document the fun of the day. Many thanks both to Visions by Heather and also to Celebration, and congratulations, Mary … your big day is only 3 months away!!

How fun! Be sure to check out the websites of both Visions by Heather and Celebration to find out more about how these businesses can be involved in making your day the one you have always dreamed about.