C'ville Entremom

Those of us who have been brides know how crazy the wedding planning can make you. Having to make 1,000 choices about colors, dresses, cakes, photographers, venues, music, food, invitations, guests, etc. in a matter of what sometimes is only a few months can just be completely overwhelming. There’s a reason behind the term “Bridezilla.”

So, new brides-to-be in the area – count your blessings. Because unlike when I was married eight years ago, you all have everything you need for a blissful wedding planning experience right at your fingertips – thanks to Elisa and Jennifer of The Bridal Ring.

The Bridal Ring is the genius brainchild of local photographer Elisa Bricker (www.elisabphotography.com), who, together with local event planner Jennifer Hamlin (www.eventswithpanache.com), created a community for brides-to-be to share best practices and connect with vendors in the area. Monthly gatherings give these ladies a chance to learn tips and tricks of the wedding-planning process, share new ideas and meet other brides-to-be who are at the same stage in life. Jennifer and Elisa also co-write a blog, which features advice, upcoming events and other bits of information that will help make your wedding an affair to remember.

And, here’s one item that will fit your wedding budget; the membership fee is a mere $25 for a year’s worth of networking, the opportunity to be spotlighted on the blog and one free guest pass to an event. If you’re late in the stages of planning and just want to attend 1-2 of their meetings, you also can do that for $8 per event.

Upcoming events include:

• The Bridal Ring Launch Party!

Tuesday, Feb. 23 at Greencroft Country Club

This is a chance to meet premiere vendors and other brides-to-be in the area while enjoying champagne and cupcakes.

• Paper Presentation by Katie with Good Paper

Tuesday, March 30 at Veritas Winery

Learn about the latest in invitations, save-the-dates and writing etiquette.

Since Jennifer and Elisa are both former brides in the wedding business, they saw an opportunity for women to learn from each other and connect with seasoned vendors who could share their knowledge. Having their own businesses and trying to manage mommyhood all while launching this third business, they divide and conquer to help make The Bridal Ring a success, with Jennifer focusing more on marketing and Elisa on the web site/blog and promotional materials. At only 8 weeks old, The Bridal Ring is quickly becoming a huge success, so kudos to you ladies!!

Follow them on Twitter: @BridalRing

Become a fan on Facebook: The Bridal Ring

~Mary Beth Bowen

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I recently had the pleasure of attending the 1st birthday party of a close friend’s little girl.  She asked me to take some pictures of the event while I was there.  When I arrived, I had the pleasure of finding 2 of our very own Entremoms there setting up for the event, Jennifer Hamlin of Events with Panache and Anita Gupta (”cake-maker extraordinaire”) of Maliha Creations.  This great event for little Ava Katheryn’s 1st Birthday was held at the Paramount Theater on the downtown mall and had over 100 guests.  Who knew that we had such a gem of a location for parties here in Charlottesville?  Actually, I can answer that.. C’Ville Entremom, Jennifer Hamlin, knew all about this great spot!

Events with Panache is Charlottesville’s premier event service.  Planned to the minute detail, an event planned by Panache will be one to remember and talked about for years to come. Social and extraordinary events are their specialty and a signature service at Panache. Whether a small dinner for six planned at an exclusive restaurant or a wedding with a 500 person guest list, Panache will make the event extraordinary. Panache is tapped into the hottest trends and has strong relationships with event vendors and venues.  Jennifer, owner of Panache, specializes in designing and orchestrating intimate and large-scale events. She has directed and facilitated programs throughout the United States and Internationally in Hong Kong, London, Lisbon, Brussels, Madrid and Toronto. Jennifer has extensive experience with high-level government officials, corporate clients and celebrities in the corporate, non-profit, association and private social sectors. She is a graduate of Indiana University and earned her designation of Certified Meeting Professional through CMA (Certified Meeting Association) and has a diverse career history in Philadelphia, PA and Washington, D.C. She relocated to Charlottesville in 2008 where she resides with her husband and daughter.

Jennifer, true to form, left no detail untouched.  She helped mix the Wolfe family’s Indian heritage with standard childhood birthday party fun to put on a terrific event for both adults and children alike.

Anita created a piece of art in the birthday cake that she made.  As I walked through the halls, I kept hearing repeated murmurs of “Wow.. Have you seen the cake?”

Charlottesville, below is just a taste of the talent and creativity of our local Entremoms!  You never know what we are going to do next!

There was even a puppet show!

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We wish everyone a safe and happy holiday!  We will be taking a little break from the blog (if you haven’t already noticed) and returning in January!  See you in 2010!

Let’s celebrate w/a festive picture of Mary Beth & me!  Aren’t we beautiful in our sweaters??  (Thoughts, Debbie??)

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Two weeks to go and still looking for the perfect Christmas gift?? Well, look no further.. Leslie Chisholm – Unconventional Classic Jewelry has you covered for your Holiday needs.

Leslie’s unique jewelry is designed with a focus on symmetry, texture and color. She takes pride in making each piece herself and taking the time to do it right. Her attention to detail assures the wearer that what they have is hand crafted and high quality… no two pieces are the same.

Leslie is passionate about creating refined, organic and elegant jewelry. She uses locally grown flora and fauna in her designs. She also loves to recycle vintage findings to use as a finishing touch to her work. She admits she has a weakness for pearls – the more unusual the better. She loves working with Precious Metal Clay. The silver leaves that she creates are her signature pieces.

Leslie has had a love for jewelry since childhood. As a kid living on Lake Erie, she often collected sea shells and looked for ways to make jewelry out of them. When she discovered that Precious Metal Clay would allow her to immortalize shells and other textures in fine silver, she was hooked and an artist was born. Leslie says that she is entirely self-taught.

Leslie started her business as a way to be in the same room with her sons (Daniel – 24, D’Arcy – 21) as young boys while they were playing, reading or watching TV and still be doing something productive. Leslie’s sons have been very supportive of her work and understood when she had to get just one more piece finished.

If you would like to find out more about Leslie Chisholm – Unconventional Classic Jewelry, please visit her website at www.lesliechisholm.com. Leslie is offering 20% off anything on her website if you mention Entremom.  She is also offering free gift wrap and free shipping within the continental U.S.  Contact Leslie at 434-971-2900 or email her (leslie.chisholm@gmail.com) to receive the discount. Offer good through 12/31/09.

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Here is the video from the November Social Media Club of Charlottesville/C’Ville Entremom Event.  Marijean Jaggers of Standing PR spoke on “6 Ways To Use Social Media to Market Your Brand and Business.”  You can follow along with her slideshow here.  (My apologies in advance that the video ran out at 25 minutes…)

Six Ways to Use Social Media – Marijean Jaggers from Business Bullpen on Vimeo.

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Looking for the perfect gift to give your loved ones?  Tired of running into the masses of people in the big box stores??  Well, look no further!!  Your local C’Ville Entremoms are here to help.  Here are a few gift ideas (w/savings) for your Holiday shopping pleasure:

Ivan and Mary — Ivan and Mary offers unique belts, handbags and more!  Email Mindy at sales@ivanandmary.com with the code Entremom and recieve 10% off your order.  Visit www.ivanandmary.com for more information.

By Betsy — One of a kind personalized stationary suited to your taste.  Receive 15% off any personalize stationary when you mention Entremom.  Visit www.bybetsy.com to browse her selection.

novel. — At novel., you will find something for every stylish woman on your gift list…  jewels, bags, bath, candles, frames, books, wearables and paper along with a special order personalized gift department and a baby section.  novel is located on the North Wing of Barracks Road Shopping Center.  Mention Entremom and get 15% off any in stock item at novel.

Explorations Play Studio — Explorations is a play studio that is aesthetically and purposefully designed to entice children to explore and discover.  Explorations is located in the Village Green Shopping Center off Hydraulic Road.    Mention Entremom and receive 20% off merchandise and gift certificates.

Leslie Chisholm Jewelry — Leslie creates unconventional classic jewelry.  Leslie is offering 20% off anything on her website if you mention Entremom.  She is also offering free gift wrap and free shipping within the continental U.S.  Contact Leslie at 434-971-2900 or email her (leslie.chisholm@gmail.com) to receive the discount.

And Moms while you are at it.. take a break and pamper yourself.  DCLIMAGE is offering their holiday special ’TIME REWIND FACIAL’ Professional Protocol for all skin types. This facial will uncover a more vibrant, youthful complexion, as it restores clarity, softness and smoothness.

Happy Shopping Ladies!

PS.  All coupons good through 12/31/2009.

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I was excited when Marth Keith sent me the announcement about this fabulous show that I had to share it on the blog ASAP!!. Several of our Entremoms will be participating in the Craftacular Holiday Show (a C’ville Craft Attack production). Twelve designers total will be showing and selling at OpenSpace December 11 & 12. Please come out and support our Entremoms and do some local shopping for the Holidays!

Cville Craft Attack is a group of independent designers, artists and crafters in Charlottesville, Virginia. They are makers of jewelry, handbags, paper goods, clothing, accessories, and art. Their members come from different backgrounds and all contribute a unique talent and perspective to the group. Together, they promote their high quality, locally handcrafted products. They meet once a month in the spirit of friendship, craftsmanship and artistry to support, inspire and encourage each others craft.

They believe in art, design, creation and craft. We believe in exploration and the celebration of making a life out of the things we dream.

All of the Craftacular details are here:
http://cvillecraftattack.blogspot.com/

and here:
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=177641968188

This is a fantastic all-local shopping opportunity for the holidays. Wide range of price points, talented designers, always a fun event. Please stop in and tell all whom you know!

Entremoms showing are:

Martha Keith (jewelry)
www.marthakeith.com

Tavia Brown of Taviametal (jewelry)
www.taviametal.com

Christina Flowers of Magnolia Moonlight (paper goods and graphic design services)
www.magnoliamoonlight.com

Kim Boggs Goldstein of 2nd Chance Studio (upcycled mixed media sculpture and handbags)
http://www.etsy.com/shop/secondchancestudio

Nancy Hopkins of Silver Muse Studio (jewelry)
http://www.etsy.com/shop/SilverMuseStudio

Rachel Thielmann of Gemini Skye (clothing & quilts)

Patty Wallens (pottery)

Zapata Designs (jewelry)
www.zapatadesigns.com

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Last Wednesday, the Social Media Club of Charlottesville and C’Ville Entremom co-hosted at great event at OpenSpace CoWorking featuring speaker Marijean Jaggers of Standing PR and Stl Working Mom.  The event was sponsored by OpenSpace CoWorking and Standing PR.  Marijean gave some great tips and insider information on using Social Media to promote your brand and business.  I have to say that I learned quite a bit from her presentation and there are quite a few updates in my world that I need to make.. I’d also like to give a big thanks to Todd Wickersty of SMCC, Mary Beth for her help organizing the event, the staff at OpenSpace and, of course, Marijean.

Below, is Marijean’s slide show from the presentation and some pictures that I took at the meeting.  I did take a video, but am still working out the kinks on how to get it on the blog as it is quite long!  I’ll let you know when I have it up!

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I’m excited to announce the following home show this weekend spotlighting local businesses.  Laura Futty, C’Ville Entremom and owner of Sweet Tea for Kids, put this great home show together for the community.  Come out and support local crafters and businesses this Holiday season.  Many C’Ville Entremoms will be present!  More information available on the  Sweet Finds Facebook page.

Check out this fabulous list of vendors:

• sweet tea ~ children’s custom clothing

• The Bird’s Nest ~ felted wool purses, hand-knitted scarves, antiques & home décor

• Twist Style ~ “vintage grace, modern style” providing jewelry, stationary, hair accessories & other goodies for women, kids & home

• Ivan & Mary ~ tote bags, women’s designer belts, kids belts, reversible headbands & keychains

• Gifts Galore & More ~ crafts by Alex and Creativity for kids, toys, jewelry, cooler bags, insulated mugs & much more

• Passion Sky Creations ~ hand crafted & uniquely designed necklaces and earrings from quartz, semi-precious stones & a wide variety of pearls

• Tiny Bubbles & The Giggling E ~ hooded bath towels, baby shoes, burp cloths, diaper cakes, rice heat/cold wraps, aprons, bibs, blankets & more

• Whimsical Expressions & Poppyseed Station ~ handmade frames, candle holders, magnetic clips, wall hangings, plaques & stone coasters

• Silver Muse Studio ~ unique handmade beaded jewelry & hand-forged sterling silver jewelry

• darling octopus ~ furniture & home décor made beautiful with interesting paint colors, modern fabrics & paper details

• Sew Ono eco apparel ~ one of a kind, handmade and recycled clothing and accessories. All items in the eco apparel line are made from pre-loved garments and household textiles including all buttons, trims & zippers.

• Redux ~ vintage & antique source for home & garden. Plus other unique finds, souvenirs, relics, and treasures.

• Nita & Ven and Cat & Co ~ children’s aprons & girls hair bows

• Queen of Puddings ~ scones & scone mixes

• B. Ireland Bags ~ Designer Hand Bags

• Interior Details ~ decorating services, custom sewing & embroidery

• Tastefully Simple ~ Offers a wide selection of convenient, easy-to-prepare foods designed to help people spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the rest of their lives.

• 2 Old Bags – Beijo handbags ~ patent leather designer handbags created by west coast designer and single-mom Susan Handley. Designer bags not at designer prices.

• Thierry Drapanas ~ beaded jewelry using glass, crystal, gemstone and metal beads & chain

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When our first child was born, my husband and I decided that I would stay home with the baby, meaning we needed to make some spending changes in order to still meet our financial goals. I started to look for ways to save and before long, we were cutting our household budget dramatically, saving as much as 80% a week. And we were saving significantly without sacrificing our lifestyle, actually living a higher quality of life on less. Out of my journey to save and help others do the same came my blog, Frugal in Virginia.

Whenever people ask how they can start saving too, I love sharing how easy it can be. As a mom to two young children, I know that people don’t have time to spend hours a day clipping coupons and scouring sales ads. But saving money doesn’t have to require such a time commitment. There are just a few easy steps you can take to begin cutting your budget in pretty painless ways.

1. Begin looking for coupons.
   Did you know there are lots of places other than the Sunday newspaper to find coupons? Besides store displays, magazines, and checkout lines, you can find coupons online. Sites like coupons.com, redplum.com, and smartsource.com are full of coupons you can print straight from your coupon, allowing you to select only the coupons you want.

2. Organize your coupons.
   Using coupons while shopping can be very time-consuming if you go into the store with stacks of coupons shoved into your purse. Before you shop, organize. I have a coupon organizer (the Couponizer) that works well, but others enjoy using recipe boxes, binders, or files to organize their coupons. Find something that works for you and how you shop.

3. Match your coupons with weekly sales.
   Before you shop each week, look at my list of store deals for the store you shop. (If you don’t see your store on my list, a quick Google search should turn up some results.) Then look over the store sale list for items you would like to purchase. My coupon match-ups make it easy to find the coupons that match with the store sales, maximizing your money. For example, if Colgate toothpaste is on sale for a great price, I’ll show you where you can find a coupon to sweeten the bargain even more. As you begin couponing more, you may want to begin shopping at different stores each week based on their current bargains.

4. Stockpile

   As non-perishable or easily frozen food items that your family uses are available at deep discounts using coupons and sales, buy enough to last you until the next big sale. Create a “stockpile” using these items. For example, if you are able to get 5 boxes of cereal this week at 75% savings, buy enough now to last until you can find another good cereal bargain. Put these extra boxes in your stockpile, and the next time you need cereal, shop from your stockpile rather than the full-priced breakfast aisle at the store. Within weeks, you’ll begin to see the savings resulting from having a stockpile.

Start small with the money-saving process, doing only so much as you can manage. It won’t take long before you’re a pro. By changing a few things about the way you shop and think about spending, you can quickly see your household costs decreasing. Saving money is easier than you think!

Dana Adams is a Lake Monticello resident and work-at-home mom to two young children. She can be found helping families live well on less at Frugal in Virginia. You can also follow Dana on Twitter.

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