Thursday, November 27, 2008
Happy Thanksgiving Folks
Posted by africandiva at 1:00 AM 0 comments
Labels: Heart to Heart
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Say "save your money and cheese"
YouShoot.com: This site is super cool!!!!! YouShoot lets you rent out digital cameras for your big day!!!! Rent a digital camera for only $19.95! Seriously!!! Keep only your best pics, record video and more! I love it: https://youshoot.com/s_home.php
Panraven: is another great site! You can make a story book (hard copy) with your wedding pics for only $29.95 for twenty pages.The pages are beautiful! Edit your photos here, share your "stories" with your friends and family and more. http://www.panraven.com/home/homepage.html
IdoStream: What do you do if people cant come to your wedding? Let them watch it online live! For $395 (the basic service), you can have a live webcast of your nuptials.Also it includes On Demand access to video for 30 days after the event, live technical support chat for viewers, guestbook for your viewers to sign, up to 50 concurrent viewers and more! No one has to miss anything!http://www.idostream.com/index.html
Here are some ways to get professional pics without the money drama:
- Ceremony only: Have a professional take pics of the ceremony only.
- Be on the lookout: For talented photography students at universities or community colleges. Ads in the local newspapers (city papers or criagslist) or online too. Be sure to take a look at their work before booking!!!
- Disposable cameras at the reception: Yea some pics may be total flops but there will alot to choose from. or you can use YouShoot.com!
- Get the proof with proofs: hire a photography who will sell you the proofs.
- Get to see CDs: Hire a photographer who will put your prints on a cd. You can use your prints to make your wedding album, or get more pics etc.
there you have it some tips for DIY and/or budget savvy folks! love ya! picture from Budget Travel Magazine. which rocks!
Posted by africandiva at 12:33 PM 0 comments
Labels: Cool Stuff, Entertainment, Photography
Monday, November 24, 2008
What does it Mean? Putting You into Your wedding.
Posted by africandiva at 10:33 PM 0 comments
Labels: DIY, Heart to Heart, Money
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Sales! Sales! Sales!
Posted by africandiva at 7:37 PM 0 comments
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Love advice from Dr. No Love Degree!
To me its so cliche when you hear brides say "I knew he was going to be the one." Yea right. Its impossible to know if someone is going to be the one. I think its better to say " I knew he was going to be special and unique" I feel that way for my hub, that clarity in my mind came one night and I knew this maybe the big it for me. It wasn't love at first sight for us.(Which was kind of refreshing, since I normally crush hard in my relationships. I later learned that crushing was a bad sign for me. Its like shaking a soda can and then opening it up. Its a big rush but nothing meaningful left. Not enough meaning to have a lasting relationship) I can say that we have very different ways of doing things but have very strong core beliefs. Which to me is important in a relationship. I'm like "You say yada and I say yada as long as we are one the same page" Sometimes we drive each other nuts...most times we drive each other nuts.It takes alot of work. However, we normally come to the ultimate decision together. Most of my friends ask me,"what can I do to have a strong relationship?" or "why don't guys take me seriously?" or "Why do I get so jealous?" or etc. Well I'm not perfect but here is what I have to say. I hope it helps people. My advice for any relationship are: 1.To not sweat the small things. Who cares if you like polka dots and he/she hates them. 2. Compromise and figure out ways to keep both of you happy. 3. Have open communication even when it hurts. Some times there isn't a way to say something nicely. However, I rather have my partner say than hide it. And vice versa. Hiding leads to dishonesty and dishonesty leads to anger. 4. Know your core beliefs and expectations: These are things that you can not live without. Its like air for your soul. Your partner should mirror or at least acknowledge and respect those beliefs. 5. Know when enough is enough: its good to have an exit strategy and know when its time to part ways. To many times girls become beggars in their own relationships. We beg to be treated right, we beg for companionship and we beg to stay in a relationship. I have done it before but no longer. It is what gives you self respect in your relationship. Its not a threat device like " If you don't give me a pony, I'm leaving you!" but its a "I know my worth but you don't so I leave." I learned that from Kimora Lee Simmons' book and Isaac Sykes. 6. Show Love to get Love: Smiles bring smiles and love equals love. No one wants a zombie for a mate. 7. Know when to back down: Women are so use to fighting. We have a fighting spirit. We have to be tough at our jobs and to the outside world. However in our relationships, it shouldn't feel like a battle. Part of that is knowing when to back down. There isn't any good to a I'm always right contest. 8. Know your place: This isn't what some ladies may think. Knowing your place isn't about being a servant to your partner but its about knowing your place in the life of your partner. Its about jealousy. Its very interesting how you can never find a date until you are in a relationship. Well, your partner is probably seeing the same coincidence. Before you boil in hate. Stop and think is a cheater worthy of your love. The point is that you cant be with your partner 24/7 and it isn't your job to intimidate every lady/man who winks at your partner. Its your partners job. You must know your place as your lover's love, you have the right to be the only one/whatever and your mate must respect that right.Any questions read rule 5. 9. Be ready to work: All relationships take work, prayer, more work and wisdom. There isn't a ready made relationship, it takes time to build something beautiful. If you cant put the effort into a relationship then its best to read rule 5. 10. Have a tough skin: There are people on this Earth that are miserable. Just miserable and they can be family, friends or strangers. These folks have one job to bring problems into your space. They can be permanent bullies or just moody folks but they will come and you will have to deal with them. Its best to be kind and keep on moving since they like confrontation. So there you have it....I'm not a love guru but here is what works for me. love ya!
Posted by africandiva at 2:51 PM 0 comments
Labels: Heart to Heart
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Real Love with Real Smarts: Chelle & Dave
Congrats of Chelle & Dave! Thank you for your tips! Love ya!
Posted by africandiva at 8:51 PM 0 comments
Labels: Heart to Heart, Real Love
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Do me a favor and save money on Favors! Cookies Edition
Wedding Favor Box The Groom only 12 for $7.92 ($.66 ea)
http://www.save-on-crafts.com/favorboxes1.html
There are ton of favor boxes on Save On Crafts! Try carryout boxes or little baggies....whatever you want!!! DIY TIP- Add a great Thank you Good Bye message.take care love ya!
Posted by africandiva at 7:50 PM 0 comments
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Super Deals: Bridal Shoes!!!
I hate uncomfortable shoes. I think high heels are from the devil. They are sent to tempt women. I rarely wear heels and if I could I would have them banished...forever. However there is a gal inside me who loves fashion. The same gal who secretly reads fashion magazines in the bathroom...lol. And that gal loves the way they look. My laid back slob girl and my high fashion diva both like sales (thus the creation of this blog) and want affordable heels that look like luxury shoes. They both agree with my wallet: I'm broke. So today I'm writing about affordable wedding shoes. Here are my top picks:
Touch-ups Carly Bridal Shoes
$41.99
available at Bellissima Shoes
I love the sparkling metallic strip! Its festive and fun. This shoe is for the bride who loves bling! She is a little more flirty and bubbly like champagne.
http://www.bellissimabridalshoes.com/
These are from whatapair.com, The info : Steve Madden Danzel sandal only $19.99! SKU# 0824706853421
Coloriffics Erin Bridal Shoe
$49.99 Also at Belissima Shoes
I love the futuristic look of this shoe. The peep toes is a must have fashion trend. This is for the more edgier bride who has a funky but trendy style.
Wanna wear cool shoes and be animal friendly on your special day? Try these affordable vegan shoes from Ragazzivegan.com. Why did I pick red? Cus I love the idea of ruby red slippers under a long princess dress! The Info:
ITEM NO.: ANCHOR-01-RED
ANCHOR-01
Vegan Price: $48!
Touch-ups Nona Bridal Shoes
color- white dyeable shoes
$49.99
Available at Belissima Shoes
Classic and sophisticated
This shoe is for the lady who knows what she wants. Versatile, this shoe is a staple for the classy bride after her I dos.
Ankle-Strap Sandal
available at Newport News only $39.00
Super cute bow but sexy patent look.
Need comfort but love style? Try these pairs from Ragazzivegan.com! Here's the info :
ITEM NO.: DIDI-1 GOLD
VEGAN-DIDI-1
Vegan Price: $48
This is for the Bride who wants to showoff! Be a golden goddess in these sexy sandals by Pazzo- Luna courtesy of whatapair.com! Appropriately named Romance these shoes are only $39.99! SKU# PA-ROMANCEGLD
I think these shoes are super cute! You can find them at Zapppos.com The Info: RSVP Peaches SKU# 7404201
$65.00 the color is Ivory.
The Hopeful Pump is available at Payless for only $19.99! Lot Number: 059123
I found this pair at myglassslipper.com. They are from Touch Ups (Style # BREEZE-661)$51.00
Another comfort shoe. I found these at Rampage.com. The Frankie-9 are fun easy to wear and comfortable. If you want some glitter but with a relaxed elegance this is your shoe. Here's the info :
Frankie-9
$38.00
Looking for more cool places to find affordable shoes? Try: DSW.com nordstrom.com jcpenney.com macys.com Also local stores/ boutiques are great places to score big. love ya!
Posted by africandiva at 6:46 PM 1 comments
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
DIY Catering 101: How to do it Yourself!
- Amy's- I think having two boxes of vegan pizza is a great way to keep all veggie people happy. Also the Texas burger is awesome!!!
- Alternative Baking Concepts. The best VEGAN cookies EVER! Its good to have an alternate desert available too. http://www.alternativebaking.com/index4.cfm
- Morning Star- meat alternative.
- Sticky Fingers Bakery-I haven't tried it yet but I love the idea of this mail order shop.http://www.stickyfingersbakery.com/index.php
here's a link that has a list of vegan food and clothing products: http://www.vrg.org/links/products.htm#retailer
6. Put out Fancy Appetizers: Appetizers are your friends if you know what you are doing. A finger food platter is great affordable option and easy to find at any supermarket or make at home.
7. Shop in Season: Don't look for coconuts in December or pineapples in January. Shopping in season is a quick way to save money on foods.
8. Shop Organic: Trader Joes, Wholefoods and other organic markets are great places to find fresh foods.The fresher your foods are the better.
9. Go for the visuals: Add variety into the menu. Having a wide assortment makes sure there is something for everyone. Use bright color vegetables and fruits, like carrots, lettuce, blueberries, red peppers etc to garnish dishes. Add elevation to your display by taking sturdy boxes and placing the dish on top.
10. Keep the Bar simple: No one will notice if you don't have a full bar. Have a beer selection, a wine selection, water, and soft drinks or juice. If you really want to be cost effective than have a signature cocktail/drink, water, soft drink.
11. Wow with fancy sauces: Sometimes you can turn something simple like grilled chicken or tofu into something with dazzle just by adding a special sauce. Remember to heat sauces that go onto meat or meat alternatives. Also adding sauce/ preservatives on simple cake slices makes them awesome. Mint chocolate fudge on chocolate cake, anyone?
12. Have Help: No one can do it all by themselves. We all need help. Hire people who have experience with food ( an experienced waiter, a trusted volunteer) to man the buffet lines or help send the food out to the people. They shouldn't be family and they should have a list of guidelines. Food should be already made. Also pay them well.
Posted by africandiva at 6:03 PM 0 comments
Fancy Shamacy: The Little White Reception Dress
Welcome back to my edition of Fancy Shamacy! To day I'm writing about reception dresses. A reception dress is a dress a bride wears after the wedding ceremony. It is more comfortable then the wedding dress and easier to dance in. Recently alot of brides are jumping on the trend. Celebrities like the beautiful Christina Aguilera who wore a beautiful long dress with a ribbon like train. Then changed into a sexy white dress for her reception dress! She looked amazing!!!
Joe Buissink/WireImage
It can be sexy, elegant, short or long! Its a trend that I think is cool and practical! Everyday Brides can get the look without the hefty price tag too! Here's some fun choices that I came up with:
This awesome dress is from the nice folks of Group USA. It is a favorite of mine and it looks like a high fashion magazine creation! It would make a great reception dress! Its ONLY $199.99!
The info:
Chiffon gown
On Sale Now $199.98
Style #41770/6115W
"Chiffon halter gown with beaded cowl neck and ruched back detailing."
This lace gown is super pretty! Also from Group USA. Here's the info:
Beaded Gown$269.99
Style #41790/8173WBeaded lace slip dress with sweep train
This cute white dress is available at edressme.com!
Its a super cute short dress! the info:Sweetheart Bubble Dresses by Dave and Johnny$136.00
Style # 4317
This beautiful white dress is available at Newport News!
Max & Cleo® metallic dress
"Glittering metallic jacquard dress with flattering satin-banded empire waist, square neckline and welt pockets at the hip."
the info : Style No. 1V 44241
$135.00
This sexy number is from dresses.com by Odette Christiane! Here's the info : Angels Touch
"Angelic silk charmeuse dress features a figure flattering baby doll shape. A gorgeous neckline features beaded crystal flowers and dazzling rhinestone straps. Built in bra cups." Price $ 189!
This dress is for the bride who wants to cover her arms. The Info: Light Romance
"2-piece dress shapes an exquisite, re-embroidered lace tunic over a body-sleeking knit slip. Tunic is lavishly trimmed with Venise lace and has keyhole back with button close." The price: Only $87!
I love this dress!!!!! Also by dresses.com, White On has a story, here's the info:
"Inspired by old Hollywood glamour, this bias-cut satin faille dress follows the curves of the body without being too clingy. A high neckline flows into a stunning open back. Flowing train. It looks like a high fashion wedding gown". Only $177!
This is a simple dress is simply beautiful. Light and breezy its a lovely choice for the bride who wants a sweet yet sexy look at her reception. here's the info:
EYE DO
"Innocence meets temptation. Take their breath away in a white v-front spaghetti strap, satin gown. Open back is complimented by flowing sheer mesh ties that hang delicately behind. Sweep train. Fully lined. $177! "
Here's some links that I like too:
db Online Collection of David's Bridal
Really great deals online!
http://www.davidsbridal.com/index.jsp
Coco Myles
An awesome site, simply awesome!
Posted by africandiva at 10:38 AM 0 comments








