by Unique Designs

New Blog!!

2009-05-29T08:00:00.000-04:00

What are youstill doing here!? Why are you still reading this? Unique Designs has anew blog....

www.blog.daretobunique.com

Follow us on Twitter: www.twitter.com/uniquestudio

See You There!

Update your bookmarks!

2009-05-27T08:30:00.000-04:00

We are back with a new blog....

http://www.blog.daretobunique.com/

for those of you with google reader, update your bookmarks to: http://blog.daretobunique.com/?feed=rss

You can also follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/uniquestudio

Are you Following Us!?

2009-05-26T09:00:00.000-04:00

We are back with a new blog.... Update your bookmarks and go see what we are talking about today!

www.blog.daretobunique.com

for those of you with google reader, update your bookmarks to: http://blog.daretobunique.com/?feed=rss

You can also follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/uniquestudio

We've Moved!!!

2009-05-25T08:10:00.002-04:00

As many of you have noticed we have been missing in the blog world for long, long time. Well the wait is over!! We are back with a new blog....

www.blog.daretobunique.com

for those of you with google reader, update your bookmarks to:
http://blog.daretobunique.com/?feed=rss

You can also follow us on Twitter
www.twitter.com/uniquestudio

Moving!

2009-05-06T11:04:00.002-04:00

Hi Everybody!!

Unique Designs' website is moving servers as we prepare for bigger and better things. Please be patient with us through this downtime. You can always reach us at 352-376-0598 or at info@daretobunique.com.

We will keep you updated through this blog!!

See you very soon!

We're not Lost!

2009-04-16T08:53:00.003-04:00

by: Danny Johnson

Yeah, I know. It's been a while but we didn't get lost. I hope to show you some of our awesome designs in the near future because we have had more clients than we know what to do with! We will not be posting too many times between now and June. I can't give away details just yet but good things are happening! Keep checking back for the 'changes'.

I can use that!?!

2009-02-24T12:48:00.008-05:00

by danny

I LOVE boring invitations! Can you feel the sarcasm?

Who wants a boring invitation? When considering the design of an invitation for your event, try to think outside of the 'paper' box. You can use just about anything to create an amazing invitation. Take a look at this silver leather-feel paper.

OR...how about giving it a nice soft feel by adding some silk fabric. It could peak out from under your first layer just slightly to give a little silk ruffle.

And a super girly favoite of mine...LACE!

What would you add?

Etiquette: What You Should Know About Save the Dates.

2009-02-23T08:00:00.001-05:00

Save the Dates: An important part of starting your wedding planing. It's becoming increasing more popular to send Save the Dates. Not everyone does it, but most people do. But where do you start? How far in advance do you send them? Does everyone get one? It's a lot to think about! Well, perhaps this will help with some of those questions. With a little help from The Knot.com, the following Q&A on Save the Date Etiquette will answer some of those questions.

Q. Do we have to send a save-the-date?
A: Of course, you don't have to send one if you don't want, but it will give guests the heads-up about your wedding plans. Between travel arrangements and busy schedules, sending a save-the-date will increase guests' chances of attending your celebration. And that's the goal, right?

Q. When do you send them?
A: As a general rule, it's best to start spreading the news at around six months prior to the ceremony (eight months for a faraway destination). This gives guests plenty of time to book their travel, save a bit of cash, and ask for days off from work. Any earlier, and they may toss the notice aside. Any later, and it might as well be an invitation.

Q. Do we have to send save-the-dates to everyone?
A: Just to the people that you want to come to your wedding. Even if you have already received confirmations from certain guests, you still need to send them a save-the-date (bridesmaids, siblings, and parents). But remember: Only send to those that you definitely want to attend. Once these are in the mail, there's really no turning back.

Q. Do we need to add “and guest,” or can that wait for the invitations?
A: It's best to be clear about who is invited to the wedding, even this far in advance. By including the actual names of every intended guest on the envelope, you are less likely to have any assumed invitees (like your third cousin's new boyfriend), or general confusion (is your seven-year-old niece invited?). Being upfront about who is invited also gives families with uninvited kids ample time to plan for child care, and out-of-towners time to figure out hotel room shares.

Q. What if we send save-the-dates and then change the date or location?
This scenario is very unlikely, since no couple should send out formal wedding information before setting the plans in stone—but stranger things have happened. In the event of an unexpected change of plans, your best bet is to update your wedding website, pick up the phone, and start spreading the word. You do have the option of sending out another mailing that explains the dilemma—but a personal, verbal notice is the best way to avoid confusion. (If your guest list is a bit overwhelming, enlist the help of your bridal party.)

Let's Recap!

2009-02-20T08:00:00.000-05:00

Tuesday was Let's Eat Cake! And we did eat a lot of cake. I'm still on a sugar high! It was such fun! Melissa and her gang did an amazing job!

Here's a recap!

Behold...the yumminess of Let's Eat Cake! This isn't all the cakes, but I can assure you that all of the cakes there were pretty fab!

Here are some of the silent auction cakes!

Giovanni wanted the Ice Cream Cone cake, but sadly he was out bid. By a little girl. He's only slightly bitter.

And we got to meet Kerry Vincent! And Giovanni and I got to hug her!

I think that made up for losing the cake (somewhat...)

So cool!

So there ya have it! I can't even believe it's over! All of the hard work paid off! Plus we got to eat tons of cake for a good cause! It just doesn't get much better than that!

Thanks Melissa, for letting us be a part of all the fun!

Close to our Hearts!

2009-02-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

Check out Jennifer and TJ's engagement photos! These guys are more than just clients...they're like family to us! We've known Jennifer forever! But seriously...How cute is this picture?! Awwww!

Check out all their photos, taken by Gwendolyn Tundermann! So cute! Not that we're bias! Okay, maybe a little!

Can you say SUGAR OVERLOAD!

2009-02-18T08:00:00.001-05:00

Last night was Let's Eat Cake, the awesome fundraiser hosted by Melissa DiStefano of Masterpiece Weddings for the St. Jude Children's Hospital! And let me just say, I don't think I have ever in my life eaten that much cake in one night. EVER! I seriously thought I was going to go into a sugar coma. But then I saw another cake, and forgot all about that. Funny how that works. But not only were these cakes super yummy, they were also incredible to look at! I mean crazy good! It was a great night. And the best part is that it was all for a great cause! How sweet is that!

Congratulations to Melissa on an amazing event!

A Special Greeting!

2009-02-13T08:15:00.001-05:00

Today is a very special day... It is the birthday of a very important part of our lil Unique Designs family. Our Danny is a year older today!!!!

Happy Birthday Danny!

We hope it's the best birthday ever!

Luv ya!

Kenya & Giovanni

Got Invitations?!?

2009-02-13T08:00:00.000-05:00

So...do you have invitations?

by:danny

You know what I've noticed? For an invitation blog, we sure do not post much about invitations! I promise we actually do work. I wanted to take a minute to show a little something that we can do. Here's a design from Envelopments that was featured in Martha Stewart Weddings. If you've dropped by our office recently you've already seen it on display at the 'make it a complete mess and we'll clean it up table'.

See...

And if you like it but are not sure if it's for you, we can 'tweek' it (and make it better but you didn't hear it from me..he he).

Is That Frosting I Smell....

2009-02-12T08:00:00.001-05:00

Oh yes, that is the sweet smell of Lets Eat Cake! It really is so close you could almost taste it! NEXT TUESDAY! Please try and contain your excitement! Oh what the hay! Feel free to jump up and down like a school girl! LOL

But don't think that just because it's next week you have no more time to donate! Don't be silly, there is still plenty of time! Simply got to the Let's Eat Cake website and click the donate here button! If you haven't purchased your ticket yet, head on over to Masterpiece Weddings or Solutions Bridal and get one!

Ok, Maybe we're braggin' just a little...

2009-02-10T08:00:00.001-05:00

We can't help it! As we said before, we have some of the hottest clients out there! And to further prove it, we'd like to introduce Tracey and Matt!

Tracey and Matt had their engagement photos taken by the lovely and uber-talented Lindsey (Pure By Lindsey)! They are so cute and truly one of the sweetest couples you will ever meet! How did we get so lucky to have such adorable people as clients?!

A lil Inspiration

2009-02-09T08:00:00.002-05:00

I was checking out inspiration boards on Style Me Pretty and I came across this beauty! I'm a sucker for that old hollywood glam look and to me this falls in that category!

I absolutly love how the bride's hair and the silhouette on the cameo match. That's pretty neat. (Yes, I said neat, that word is making a comeback!)

I also love the flowers on the cake, it's that old-school glam with an updated modern twist.

Very chic!

You like us...You really like us!

2009-02-06T08:00:00.001-05:00

How cool is this! Unique Designs has been chosen to receive the 2009 Bride's Choice Award given by Wedding Wire!

All we can say is, Thank You! It's an absolute honor to be given this award and to get to work with all the awesome customers we've been blessed to come in contact with!

Thanks again for all the support!

2009 Spring Make Up Trends

2009-02-05T08:50:00.001-05:00

Come on! Catch up!
by: danny

I know it’s barely February but the makeup trends for Spring ’09 are starting to appear. It seems the trickle down from New York runways are tossing out the heavy eyebrows and bright red lips. Put away your simple looks. Spring is preparing for larger than life lashes, flawless complexions and the soft, smokey eye.

As hard as it may be, put your intense liquid liner back in the drawer. Eye makeup for this

Spring is all about definition and a soft touch of fantasy. Christian Dior, Jill Stuart and NARS

are all releasing softer, pastel collections for the eyes. Start looking around and you’ll see that nearly every makeup line, including Vincent Longo seen here, has been promoting violet

eyeliner to create a soft, smokey eye that compliments every skin tone.

Completing the softer eye is a pair of false lashes. Shown on almost every runway at New York Fashion week, properly applies false eyelashes add an ethereal sense of fantasy to the makeup trend this spring.
For the brows, you should give it a soft and more natural look. Try letting them grow and only trimming the unruly hairs, allowing the rest to naturally sweep toward the temple.

*Photo credit:www.iswii.net, www.urcosme.com]

Spring Trends, 2009

2009-02-03T08:00:00.000-05:00

The fashion trends for Spring 2009 are being unveiled! It's exciting, I know! And they are fierce!

Check out Brides.com's Editor's Pick for Top Wedding Dress trends in 09!

Here are a few of my personal favorites! I love wedding dresses! From the most extravagant to the simple and sleek! Wedding dresses are fun!

So Beautiful! Stay tuned, more on the Spring 09 Wedding trends to come!

We're not braggin'...But it's kinda true!

2009-02-02T08:00:00.000-05:00

We have some of the hottest clients in the world! Don't believe us? See for yourself!

Perfect example! Kari (Kee to Your heart) and her fiance Andrew just had their engagement photos done by the super talented Kara Pennington and let me just tell ya...they look AMAZING!

Thanks for sharing this sneak peek of your photos! Can't wait to see more!

OMG!!!!!! Best thing EVER!

2009-01-29T08:00:00.004-05:00

For those of you who don't know, my Birthday was on January 27th. And let me just tell ya...It was awesome! The best birthday on a "Tuesday" ever! Not only did I spend it with the greatest friends in the world but, I also received the following fabulousness!!!

Yes, that is my birthday cake! Kristy, of Posh Pastry, made this beautiful and equally yummy cake! Oh, yes...I am a lucky girl! My very own, pink and black "fabulosity in cake form".

Best thing EVER!

{As you can see, this was a total surprise! Not my best photographic moment, lol!}

Thank sooo sooo sooo (Did I mention sooo) much for for the amazing cake. You have no idea how happy you made me!!! I'm still smiling from ear to ear just thinking about seeing it for the first time! Love at first sight!

You rock, Kristy!

I also want to say thank you to Kari, Giovanni, and Danny! You guys are the best friends a girl could ever wish for! You all made my birthday so special!

I Heart You!!!

Get Decked Out!!!

2009-01-28T08:00:00.001-05:00

If you love paper, you're simply going to LOVE this....

Now, you can get your very own mini-deck full of papers exclusively from Envelopments. It's small but mighty, holding 200 paper samples! (Yep, you heard me right!) Metallic, Textured, Matte, and Printed papers! The ENTIRE COLLECTION in the palm of your hands! Oh, it gets better. Buy this mini deck for only $20 bucks and you get $20 bucks off you next order with Unique Designs! Seriously! How cool is that?! Head over to the Envelopments website and get one! Go on...You know you want to!

Feelin' Blue...

2009-01-27T08:00:00.002-05:00

Oh...Not that kind of blue! We're inspired by blue today...Tiffany Blue to exact! Check out our inspiration board in honor of our favorite little blue box!

Images from Google Images

Brides Wars Showcase

2009-01-26T08:00:00.003-05:00

Check out our pictures for the showcase we did last weekend at the Royal Park Theater for the premier of Bride Wars! It was awesome, and we had so much fun!!!

I decided to join the war!!!! I'm a little underdressed though!

This lovely cake was designed by KB's Kake Kreations! It's modeled after the one in the movie! Everyone loved it! And why wouldn't they, it's beautiful!!!!

Prange's Florist provided us with this gorgeous floral arrangement and my bouquet!!!

I have to say, this was great! It was a wonderful way of showing off what we can do and make new connections! A special thanks to KB's Kake Kreations for the awesome display cake, Prange's florist for the flowers and Avie for the table linens! You guys are the best!

It's the thought that counts?

2009-01-21T08:00:00.001-05:00

Finding the right wedding gift can sometimes be difficult. Lets face it, some people are just hard to shop for. I should should know, I'm one of those people! LOL

Since one of my best friends is getting married soon, I've been on the knot.com a lot lately and I came across an article where couples listed the worst gifts ever. I've listed the best of the worst.

Warning: What you are about to read is not for the faint of heart...It's scary.

"A 3-D painting of horses" (You can never have too many of those...)

"A hand-painted lucky horseshoe" (At least it's lucky...)

"A picture of a wine cork" (I think I would rather have the wine...)

A bottle of vinegar vegetables" (*Blank Stare*)

"A mop" (Seriously???)

"Febreze air freshener" (I assume it goes with the mop.)

"Gift card that was empty" (WOW!)

"An IOU"

"A Bill Clinton pot holder"

"A regifted tray (with the original card to the regifter included with the present)" (That is special!)

So the moral of the story is...think before you gift. LOL Don't end up on this list!

Photo from theknot.com

If I were your wedding, I'd sleep with one eye open...

2009-01-16T08:00:00.000-05:00

I just saw Bride Wars! And I must say...It was a lot better than I expected!!! I would totally buy it when it comes out on DVD! The things that happened between Liv (Kate Hudson) and Emma (Anne Hathaway) in the movie were HILARIOUS! I'm not even sure some of it is legal, lol!

{Look, they're Gator colored! Orange & Blue!}

I left the theater with thinking, 1.) I can't wait to have a wedding of my own someday and 2.) I'm so glad my best friend is a guy, lol!

If you haven't seen it yet, you should grab your best friend and check it out!

It has been Kenya Approved, lol!

I think...I'm in love!!!!

2009-01-14T11:45:00.001-05:00

OMG! I had to share this with you guys b/c I love...love...LOVE!...this cake! It's almost as if it was made for me!

For those of you who don't know, the fabulosity in cake form that you see before you was made by Kristy from Posh Pastry. I had seen a picture of it on her blog before, but seeing it in person...I can't even tell you! My heart skipped a beat! LOL

Giovanni and Danny, they laughed at me! LOL But I had to take a picture with "My" cake!

Don't we look perfect for each other?!

Ok, I will stop gushing over my cake now! :-)

Thank you Kristy, for taking the picture and for making such a awesome cake! I heart you!

PS: Kristy...My Birthday is 01/27...just throwing that out there!

So that is what Fergalicious looks like....

2009-01-13T08:30:00.001-05:00

I'm sure you've all heard that Fergie and Josh Duhamel were married this weekend. While most people are dying to see the wedding dress, his tux and the location, us Unique Designers were dying to see the invitation!!! (DUH! Would you expect anything less?!?! LOL)

So, with out further ado...

It's a lot more simple than I would have expected! What do you think of this fergialicious wedding invitation and program?

pictures via Radar Online

Bride Wars - Winners

2009-01-09T16:34:00.004-05:00

Congratulations to Kristy of Posh Pastries & Kristin from Masterpiece Weddings, winners of a pair of tickets to see Bride Wars staring Kate Hudson & Anne Hathaway!

We're so happy for you! We hope you both enjoy the movie!!!!

Congrats again, from your friends, Unique Designs!

Showcase

2009-01-09T08:30:00.001-05:00

Happy Friday!!

Big News! Unique Designs was invited to set up a display at Royal Park this weekend for the premiere of Bride Wars! Make sure to come by, see some new invitation designs, see the movie, and just say HI!!

Check Fandango for show times and to purchase tickets. OR If you would like FREE tickets enter our contest here! Winners will be announced TODAY at 3:00PM

Can't wait to see you there!

Twitter

2009-01-08T08:30:00.000-05:00

We have a new Twitter account!!

http://twitter.com/uniquestudio

Let's keep it Rolling!

2009-01-07T10:30:00.001-05:00

Make Melissa Pay Week continues! So far the response has been fantastic, and we can keep this rolling! Keep reposting the blog, tell your friends to tell their friends to tell their friends! This is for a wonderful cause! Blog it forward!

Bride Wars Tickets

2009-01-07T08:00:00.000-05:00

Hey Gainesville!!!

We have 5 pairs of tickets for Bride Wars starring Anne Hathaway and Kate Hudson to give away, courtesy of Regal Cinemas. The tickets can be used Sunday through Thursday at anytime at Royal Park Stadium 16.

Check out the premise of the movie below, it sounds pretty fun...

Emma (Anne Hathaway) and Liv (Kate Hudson) are best friends, and since they were young, they have always wanted to be married in The Plaza Hotel. Planning to marry their respective husbands to-be, everything seems to be going perfectly--the dates are set, their dresses are beautiful, and the maids of honor, each other, are as joyful as can be. However, when the pair of friends receive the bad news that their weddings were planned for the same day, the pre-wedding bliss is ruined. With neither willing to give up her dream wedding, Liv and Emma declare themselves to be engaged in the most heated and dangerous kind of war known to man--Bride Wars.

Sounds good, huh? Here's what you have to do to get your tickets....

Post a comment with the name of your best friend and you will be entered to win a pair of tickets. That's it!! The names will be selected randomly on Friday! Good Luck

Special Thanks to Regal Cinemas!!!

Make Melissa Pay!

2009-01-06T10:00:00.000-05:00

It's not over.... Melissa has agreed to pay $1 for every blog that re-posts about Let's Eat Cake! this entire week! Let's not let the buzz die down, we need to help raise money for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. The goal is $50,000, and they are well on their way. Let's do something to help out.

Here are just some of the amazing blogs that have re-blogged about this great event:

Hostess with the Mostess
The K Gallery
A Tale of 2 Monkeys
Well, How Nice!
Sacred Moment Weddings
Entertain Exchange
Pure: by Lindsey Tropf
KB's Kake
Posh Pastry
Powers Photography
Bright Beginings
Studio Snapshots
Lemiga Events
She Knows Parties
Domestic Divas Fancy

If you haven't done so already, re-blog!

Just copy and paste:As I'm sure you all know, Let's Eat Cake, the amazing fundraiser hosted by the equally amazing Melissa Margarita-DiStefano, is February 17th at the Plaza Paramount Hotel. {Wow, that is right around the corner!!} Let's Eat Cake is a cake decorating competition with all proceeds going to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. In an effort to make sure we get the word out to everyone (and raise money), we are starting this chain-blog (Ok, not sure if that is correct terminology. But it's like a chain letter so let's just go with it, shall we?)

Here's what we need you to do...Repost this post on your blog and ask others to post it on their blogs. Melissa will donate one dollar to the fundraiser for every blog that this is reposted on. Let's make Melissa Pay! Once you have reposted it, leave a comment letting us know that you posted it along with the url to the blog. It's for a great cause and it will be fun to see how far it will go! So lets do it... Lets blog it forward and raise money for a great cause!!!

Ps: If you haven't already, be sure to check out the Let's Eat Cake Blog!

Truly Special

2009-01-06T08:00:00.002-05:00

Yesterday we started our "chain blog" in support of Let's Eat Cake! Today I wanted to let you know why this amazing fundraiser that Melissa Di-Stefano is putting together is so special to me.

I personally do not know any child that has had their life directly affected by a tragic disease however, I do have a child in my life who I love more than words can express. My little brother, Kenneth, is a hyper-active 9 years old. I see him at least once every two weeks when he comes over to spend the weekend with me, and I talk to him every other day. He loves video games and hates school. He is sensitive and strong, quiet but loud, he is my baby brother! He is the reason I strive to suceed and the main reason I support Let's Eat Cake!

Kenneth and I being Goofy!

So you see, I cannot imagine what a family goes through when a child in their family is ill. I am relieved to know that there is a place where children and their health is the main concern. Now you know why I believe this fundraiser is truly special: because of one little boy!

- Giovanni

Blog it Forward....

2009-01-05T08:30:00.003-05:00

As I'm sure you all know, Let's Eat Cake, the amazing fundraiser hosted by the equally amazing Melissa Margarita-DiStefano, is February 17th at the Plaza Paramount Hotel. {Wow, that is right around the corner!!} Let's Eat Cake is a cake decorating competition with all proceeds going to the St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. In an effort to make sure we get the word out to everyone (and raise money), we are starting this chain-blog (Ok, not sure if that is correct terminology. But it's like a chain letter so let's just go with it, shall we?)

Here's what we need you to do...Repost this post on your blog and ask others to post it on their blogs. Melissa will donate one dollar to the fundraiser for every blog that this is reposted on. Let's make Melissa Pay! Once you have reposted it, leave a comment letting us know that you posted it along with the url to the blog. It's for a great cause and it will be fun to see how far it will go! So lets do it... Lets blog it forward and raise money for a great cause!!!

Ps: If you haven't already, be sure to check out the Let's Eat Cake Blog!

Congratulations...

2009-01-01T20:04:00.005-05:00

Amanda from The Bissful Bride!

Random.org chose lucky comment #6! Amanda has won a wedding themed movie prize package that consists of 4 dvd's (Made of Honor, The Wedding Date, Just Married, Wedding Crashers), and 2 movie tickets to Bride Wars!!!

Congratulations from your friends at Unique Designs!

Contest Deadline!!!

2008-12-31T16:44:00.006-05:00

7 hours left!!!! Our latest "Unique Contest" ends at midnight! You have 7 hours left to post a comment (about ANYTHING) and be entered to win!!!

Winner will be announced tomorrow!

Good Luck!

Happy New Year!

2008-12-31T09:00:00.001-05:00

Wow, what a year! It's hard to believe that it's over already!

It's been such a great year for us! We've met a lot of wonderful people and we've grown so much as a company! For 2009 we have some very big things in the works....Expect some major announcements, new look, new contests, discounts, and more invitations!!!

To all of our clients and blog followers, Thank You for getting us to were we are right now. Because of the nature of our business we are encouraged to express our creative talents and create new designs with each client, and for that we are truly blessed. We are never bored with our job and that is what makes it a very enjoyable experience. We wouldn't trade this for the world! Our clients are AMAZING!

To our fellow wedding industry professionals.... Thank You! A sincere Thank You for believing in Unique Designs and always being one call away! We have had amazing cakes and kakes, big time hollywood photo shoots with high fashion fabulousness, uber delicious Kake Truffles, and a a ton of "buzz"-worthy 3 hour long conversations with you. We are forever grateful and look forward to building new and lasting relationships with all of you!

From our little family to yours, Have a Happy and Safe New Year!

See ya in 09!

Giovanni, Danny, and Kenya

Contest Ends Tomorrow Night!

2008-12-30T14:51:00.002-05:00

The Bride Wars Contest is ending soon! Make sure to leave a comment on ANY post (including this one) to be entered to win the 4 Wedding Themed DVD's plus 2 tickets to see Bride Wars starring Anne Hathaway and Kate Hudson!

A Unique Contest - 3 Days Left

2008-12-29T09:00:00.006-05:00

3 Days left on the Bride Wars Movie Package!!!!

Any comment on our blog from now untill December 31st will automatically be entered to win the grand prize!

Bride Wars opens in theaters on January 9th, take a look at the high-larious new trailer...

D&G Jewls 2009

2008-12-29T08:10:00.001-05:00

Bridesmaids/Groomsmen gifts anyone?

The new 2009 collection of D&G Jewels has been unveiled online. It is one sexy collection for both men and women. We can't help but think of what great bridal party gifts they would make.

Take a look for yourself.... Breathtakingly sleek.

Imagine how shocked they will be receiving the stunning little box from Dolce and Gabbana with a piece of jewelry they can use again and again. It is an amazing gift for anybody, it says "I am thoughtful yet extremely stylish". I know I'm ready for my D&G Cuff Links or my size 11 D&G Stainless Steel ring.

Is anybody listening!?

Contest Extended

2008-12-27T10:03:00.001-05:00

Hi Guys! We hope you had a wonderful holiday. We sure did! And since we are still in the holiday spirit, we have decided to extend out little contest until December 31st! The winner will be announced on New Year's Day.

So good luck to everyone and thanks to those who have already entered!

Don't Forget to Remember....

2008-12-24T15:00:00.000-05:00

....to leave a comment to be entered in to our awesome holiday contest! We're a little jealous that we can't enter it ourselves! It's a pretty cool prize! All you have to do is leave a comment on yesterdays blog post by Christmas Day to be entered. That's it! We'll announce the winner on December 26th! So why are you still reading this...go enter the contest!! LOL

Good Luck!!!

Seasons Greetings!!!

2008-12-24T13:57:00.000-05:00

We want to wish all of you a happy holiday! We hope you enjoy the time with family, great food and of course presents!!!!

Merry Christmas!!!!

From Giovanni, Danny, & Kenya!!

A Unique Contest

2008-12-23T08:30:00.006-05:00

It's the hap, happiest season of all!!

It's that time again...time for A Unique Contest!

The lucky winner will receive a wedding themed movie prize package that consists of 4 dvd's (Made of Honor, The Wedding Date, Just Married, Wedding Crashers), and 2 movie tickets to Bride Wars which hits theaters on January 9th!

The Rules are simple.....Post a comment on our blog from now until Christmas Day and you will be entered in the drawing. The contest closes on Christmas Day and 1 winner will be announced on December 26th!

Happy Holidays from Unique Designs, and Good Luck!

Post it Forward

UPDATE: Contest has been extended until December 31st!

Pay Attention.....

2008-12-18T08:11:00.001-05:00

A Unique Contest is coming soon!!!!

Chocolate and Rose Inspiration Board

2008-12-17T08:51:00.000-05:00

I found this really pretty inspiration board on Snippet and Ink. It's a old one but I think it's pretty chic. These are the wedding colors Kenya wants for her wedding! She may not be a big fan of eating chocolate, but as a wedding color she can't get enough! And, well, we all know she loves pink! Enjoy!

Very Superstitious....

2008-12-16T10:29:00.000-05:00

Four Leaf clovers...salt over the shoulder...see a penny, pick it up! All great ways to have great luck! Everyone has their superstitions, especially on their wedding day! The Knot.com compiled a list of good and bad luck traditions and superstitions from different cultures. It's really interesting!! I feel a little luckier just reading it! Here's a little teaser! Top five!

Good Luck and Bad Luck

1. Hey, brides, tuck a sugar cube into your glove -- according to Greek culture, the sugar will sweeten your union. (Get it? Sweeten....'cause sugar is...oh nevermind...)

2. The English believe a spider found in a wedding dress means good luck. Yikes!

3. In English tradition, Wednesday is considered the "best day" to marry, although Monday is for wealth and Tuesday is for health.

4. The groom carries the bride across the threshold to bravely protect her from evil spirits lurking below.

5. Saturday is the unluckiest wedding day, according to English folklore. Funny -- it's the most popular day of the week to marry!

Go check out the rest of the list on the Knot.com!

Guess who's back??

2008-12-15T10:01:00.003-05:00

We are back to blogging! We have been extremely distracted lately, but now we are ready to rock! Expect daily blog post from your favorite invitation studio! We have an awesome Christmas give away and even awesome(er) guest posts.

Talk to you soon!

Gobble Gobble Gobble!

2008-11-27T11:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Turkey day!

We want to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving! We hope you take this time to spend with those you love and to remember all that you have to be thankful for!

Don't eat to much turkey!

Love,

Unique Designs

Giovanni, Danny, & Kenya

Guest Blog: Noaki Jewelry

2008-11-26T08:44:00.001-05:00

It's that time again folks! We have a new guest blogger, Noaki of Noaki Jewelry. If you aren't familiar with Noaki and her amazing work, it's time for you to be formally introduced. Her jewelry is to die for! You can also check her out on Etsy! But first, let's get to know a little more about Noaki!

1. Tell us a little about yourself.

I was born in California but spent a lot of time living or studying overseas in France, Japan, England and India. Those years profoundly influenced my aesthetic. After years out of the state I moved back to Los Angeles 2006 and was really struck by how beautiful California is -- the crumbling cliffs, shuttered canneries and bleached Deco buildings. I really try to bring this breadth to the one-of-a-kind pieces I make.

2. How did you get started making this beautiful Jewelry?

It all started because I could never find any jewelry I liked. I've always loved the unique elements found in vintage pieces -- the scrolling leaves, rhinestones, color combinations -- but often found them difficult to wear because they were so old-fashioned looking. Most days I tend to dress pretty California casual in jeans and tank tops and I like pieces I can wear during the day and at night with dresses. With this in mind I try to make pieces that are decorative but not overdone and pieces that stand out but don't overwhelm.

3. Where do you get your inspiration?

Everywhere -- by what I see people wearing, what I spot at antique stores or museums and often by the pieces themselves. I just bought this huge coffee table book on vintage Cartier pieces from the 1920s and 1930s. My favorite is a necklace that looks like a collar dripping with ruby red and turquoise stones. It's such a playful color combination.

4. Out of all the jewelry youʼve made, do you have a favorite?

Quite a few!

5. Is there a piece youʼve always wanted to make but havenʼt yet?

A couple months ago I bought this huge Deco era rhinestone encrusted piece with sapphire blue stones. I've no idea what to do with it -- it's so BIG! But it's just so incredibly gorgeous, a perfect red carpet piece. I'm hoping I'll find some inspiration soon.

6. Whatʼs the best part of your job.

I really do love every part of it -- searching for new elements, deciding what to do with them, making the pieces and photographing them.

During wedding season I do a lot of custom orders and those can be so much fun. I've been really fortunate too -- so far all the brides-to-be have just been the loveliest customers.

7. What celebrity would you like to see wearing your jewelry on the red carpet?

Oh so many! To name a few: Keira Knightley, Natalie Portman, Jennifer Hudson, Kate Winslet and Julianne Moore

Now go visit Noaki' site at www.noakijewelry.com to view some more stunning designs! Thanks to Noaki for taking the time to guest blog!!!!

Thank You

2008-11-24T08:34:00.000-05:00

Okay so this blog is purely personal! But I feel like I need to post it!

I just wanted to say thank you to everyone for their kind words and prayers to my family and myself. It's been a really tough week and all of your good energy has helped to get me through. A big thank you to Kari and Amanda, you two are a treat and I am glad to know you. Thank you so much for the care package! You'll never know just how much that meant to me. I'd also like to say to Danny, I love you to pieces! Thank you for being there for me in your own way! Last but certainly not least, thank you Giovanni. I heart you! I could never get through this with out you. You're the best!

Thanks Everyone!

Love,

Kenya

Death in the Family

2008-11-21T08:51:00.002-05:00

Hi Everybody,

As you all know Kenya is my right hand "man". We have known each other for a long time and when I started this business venture she was there pushing me through and later joining my dream. I was shocked to hear yesterday that her grandfather had passed away. I received the call yesterday evening and I was to deliver the sad sad news. I did not know what to do, what to say, how to act. I was not going through this but to deliver the news was hard because she is so close to me. I do not know how it feels but seeing her yesterday tore my heart. I wanted to let everybody know because we need to send prayers to Kenya and her Family in this sad time. I know Kenya and she will get through this, but sending her well wishes will help with the healing.

Thanks,
Giovanni

I think you're just my type...

2008-11-20T09:05:00.000-05:00

Do you know what kind of dress is best for your body shape? B/c, to be completely honest, I haven't a clue! iVillage asked fashion designer and Project Runway alum, Austin Scarlett! You know he knows, he designs for Kenneth Pool!!! Amazing! I digress...let's see what he had to say!

First up....the A-Line. He describes this dresses "as the most flattering of all. They look slimming without losing the full-skirt traditional bridal feeling."

Next there is the Ball Gown dress. Or as I like to call it, the Princess Bride Dress. He says this dress will enhance small waistlines, while hiding those last ten pounds you've wanted to lose from your butt or thighs. So these are great if, like me, you want to minimize the appearance of your J-Lo or Kim Kardashin, which ever fits you. (If you don't get that, email me and I will explain, lol

Now there is the Sheath Dress. Looks like it was made sorta for a greek goddess...a very tall greek goddess at that! Well apparently I'm right. Okay half right. Austin says "They're great on petite brides, as well as tall brides." Who knew...

Last but not least, the Mermaid dress! These are a very popular wedding trend. We used one in our Couture photo shoot, it looked amazing on our model! "This shape accentuates a sexy figure, showing off curves through the body, then flaring into a full hemline." Tres Chic!

Austin also give his Do's and Don'ts for different body shapes! It's a great read! Check it out!

Photos from iVillage

Pucker Up!

2008-11-19T08:51:00.000-05:00

I saw the cutest thing on Blush today. It a survival kit for you lips!!! I mean ya don't wanna have chapped lips on your wedding day right! Well this kit has organic lip balm in a variety of flavors like Pepperminty! (Yes that is really what it's called, lol) And best of all you can make sure you and your best girls all have the softest lips and fresh breath on your big day! Very important! It makes a great gift idea. I would love it! Although I'm pretty sure a certain BFF of mine would end of taking them! LOL

Also, if you've never been to Blush, check it out! it's a really cute blog!

Picture via Blush

Pass the popcorn...

2008-11-14T08:56:00.000-05:00

At every consultation we do, we always ask "So how did you propose?" I love hearing proposal stories. They are usually very sweet and creative. Well I found a wedding proposal that completely blew my mind when I read it online. He rented out a movie theater and invited 160 of their closest friends and family to witness it. He made sure they got there a little late so that them movie trailers started and to prevent her from noticing any one in the crowd. Well, the unsuspecting bride-to-be, noticed that one of trailers reminded her a lot of their relationship. That's because the groom-to-be created a movie trailer that was a proposal! So in the last few seconds of the trailer the big question was asked! Can you say stunned!!!! Needless to say, she said yes!!! That was a cool way to propose!

Here is the actual trailer he created. Note, the bride has a fear of planes and the "Life flashing before your eyes" scenes are true events portrayed by actors! Talk about big budget!!!

The guy at the very end is the groom!! AWWWWWW....*Tear* How sweet!

Tell us your proposal stories! Did he get down on one knee? Was it in a romantic location? Tell us what made you say yes!

Scent-sational

2008-11-12T20:35:00.008-05:00

I don't know about you guys but, I'm a big fan of {unique} wedding or party favors! It's never that exciting to me to go to a wedding and get chocolate covered almonds. Although that could be my strong dislike of all things chocolate! Anyway, while at Yankee Candle this past weekend I found that they have candles you can personalize for any event! I love candles, so getting that as a favor would make me a happy girl! Here's what I found...

These are adorable! And it's a favor that people can use! I mean who doesn't like candles!!! Plus anyone who's ever been to Yankee Candle knows they have just about any scent you can think of! What's not to love!?!? So, if you're the tiny votive type or you prefer to go all out with the engraved candles, people are sure to love these favors! Check out their website for more design ideas and while you're there, create your own!

Ahhhh, the sweet smell of the perfect little favor!

I'm sorry... those are what now?

2008-11-07T06:44:00.006-05:00

Take a look at these beautiful flowers! At first glance, that is exactly what they look like, beautiful flowers. But would you believe me if I told you these were made of clay? I kid you not! When I saw Amanda's post last week about these very realistic flowers, I was like, Huh? Blogger say what? I showed the picture to my friend Krissy and she was like " there is no possible way that is clay! That's amazing!" That's some serious talent!!! And you don't have to worry about them dying!

Go check out the Blissful Bride Blog and read more about these creations! I give them 2 thumbs up! Thanks for sharing Amanda!

Pictures from The Blissful Bride

Oh Kari

2008-11-05T08:53:00.001-05:00

Remember Kari? (that's her and her fiance in the little circle). She was asked by Wishpot Wedding Blog to do a guest post. She did a wonderful job writing about how to pull of "Antique Chic" and provided a few stylish ideas to achieve the look. Check out the blog post here.

Great Job Kari! Now you have to do a guest post for us! = )

Keep Up with the Tempo

2008-11-04T10:02:00.002-05:00

In a time when the economy is in a jam, Unique Designs unleashes a new pricing tier to keep up with the pulse!

Introducing Tempo, a pricing tier for the budget conscious client with an eye for the finer things in life. Invitations custom designed for you. No cutting corners, just cost!

The Tempo pricing consist of:

Invitation - $2.00 ea. (5x7 or smaller, double layered) (includes printed envelopes)

Invitation with RSVP - $2.50 ea. (invitation 5X7 or smaller, double layered) (RSVP 3.5X5)(includes printed envelopes)

Save-the-Date - $1.00 ea. (4x5 or smaller)

Save-the-Date - $1.50 ea. (4x5 or smaller, double layered)

Menu or Program - $1.25 ea. (4x9 or smaller, double layered)

Extreme attention to detail will be center stage with Tempo! Clients can choose from our entire line of Matte or Metallic papers, they can pick and switch until the mix is just right! It's time to dance to a new beat.

Call or visit us online for more details.

VOTE!

2008-11-03T08:56:00.006-05:00

We have a great announcement to umm... "announce" tomorrow. Not only will the next President be chosen tomorrow, but Unique Designs has been working on something for our potential clients!

Please don't plan your whole day around our exciting announcement, remember to vote. That is the important thing. VOTE! We all need our voices to be heard, and I would hate for you to forget to vote because of us.

So here's the deal.... you go vote, and we will be right here waiting with the news! DEAL!?

Happy Halloween!!

2008-10-31T08:31:00.002-04:00

It's candy day! Yay!! I have a skeleton ring on, that's my excuse to go trick-or-treating and Kenya has her Minnie Mouse ears on too! We are soo ready!!

Anyway,

Check out these Halloween Wedding cakes we found around the internet! Some are umm... special, while others are really great! Not sure why you would have a Halloween themed wedding, but hey, who am I to judge. lol. The cakes that have the pinkcakebox.com watermark are especially crazy beautiful.

If you see any more creepy/pretty cakes go ahead and send them to us, or leave us a comment!

Let them eat cake!

2008-10-30T08:31:00.001-04:00

There are only 4 months left until Let's Eat Cake! Yea, that's right...I said it...4 MONTHS! My how times files!

In an effort to raise as much money for these much deserving kids, Melissa is challenging all of us to donate 1 dollar. That's it, just a buck. So, before you put that dollar in the vending machine, step away, think about it, and do your good deed for the day!

Donate Now! Pretty Please..

In the Works: Beth and Casey

2008-10-29T10:26:00.003-04:00

We met Beth and her Mother back in September, she was a great girl and was very receptive to new ideas and suggestions. They were so sweet, it was a great consultation! We were hired to design her invitations, guest book cards, menus, programs, and thank you cards. Her wedding will be in Captiva Island, Florida on March 16th. Her colors are lapis (dark rich blue) , wicked (bright green), ecru (cream) with hints of burnt orange. It looks soo good together! Once her invitations are sent we will put them up on the blog.

Can't wait for you to see the completed suite!

New Design

2008-10-29T08:46:00.005-04:00

Here is another invitation we designed a few months ago. This one is simple 3 layered 5x7 card with some beautiful ribbon detailing. Enjoy!

Guest Blog

2008-10-28T08:17:00.001-04:00

Following in the footsteps of the creative and awesome bloggers before us, we have decided to have guest bloggers. To get the party started, let me introduce you to our very first guest blogger, Kristy from Posh Pastry. She designs custom cakes that not only look totally amazing but are pretty darn tasty if I do say so myself!

We sent Kristy some very {unique} questions. Check out what she had to say!

1. Tell us a little about yourself.

I am a wife, mother of three boys, and a custom cake designer. I feel like the luckiest person in the world. I have a great family and a job that I love!

2. How did you get started? (Did it start with an Easy Bake Oven?)

You know… I DID have an easy bake oven. I loved that thing, but I could never make it work quite right. I was really in to crafts as a kid. I was always making art projects. My Mom was kind enough to let me use her cake decorating supplies to make all kinds of creations. I even made my parents anniversary cake when I was twelve. My dad is a very talented wood worker. He thinks that I got my sculpting abilities from him. Maybe I did.

3. How do you know Colette Peters? Can you introduce us?

I was lucky enough to take Colette’s class at The Notter School of Pastry Arts. She is amazingly talented and such a great teacher! I learned so much from her. She is as famous as you get in the cake world, but she is incredibly down to earth.

I could introduce you… but I’d have to reintroduce myself first.

3. What do you enjoy most about your job?

My job is so much fun! Cakes are happy things. I get to be a part of some of the most important moments in people’s lives. I love it when a bride sees her cake for the first time and her face lights up! I get lots of hugs and I’ve even had some (happy) tears. One of my brides even took time to send me an email from her honeymoon to tell me how much she loved her cake.

It’s so rewarding to put my heart and soul into my creations. Then, I deliver them to people who are really excited to get them. What could be better?

4. You make so many great tasting cakes, which is your favorite?

This is a really boring answer… I love them all. People ask me all the time if I ever get sick of eating cake. Sadly, the answer is no. I eat cake all the time. I love frosting, all flavors. We went on a long trip last summer. After a few days, I was dying to make some frosting. I bought two new cookbooks on that trip just so I could read cake and frosting recipes.

5. We’ve seen many of your sculpted cakes. They seem extremely detailed. How labor intensive is it?

It really depends on the cake, but it’s usually very very time consuming. When customers order a sculpted cake, they are expecting something awesome. I don’t want to disappoint them. It’s not uncommon to find me in my studio long past midnight. I really try to make my sculpted cakes come to life. I study pictures of the real thing and do my best to recreate it in cake.

6. What is the craziest cake you’ve had to make?

I think that would definitely be the six foot long sculpted alligator that I did for the UF Department of Agriculture’s “Tail Gator” event. That thing was HUGE! People couldn’t believe that it was a cake until we cut it. My favorite moment was looking back at my cake surrounded with people who were taking pictures of it with their camera phones.

I guess second place would go to a can of boiled peanuts and a giant sculpted peanut.

Thank you so much for having me as a guest on your blog! I love your work…it’s beautiful, creative, and fun!!! You all are so talented and I always look forward to seeing more of your designs!

Awww, Well a big thank you to Kristy for being our first guest blogger and answering all of our questions! We're big fans of her beautiful work! If you need more of Kristy and Posh Pastry head on over to their tasty blog!

Tag...You're it!

2008-10-27T09:25:00.000-04:00

We have been tagged by MasterPiece Weddings and Kari.

Four things I did today:

1) We discussed designs

2) Discussed designs in the works

3) Created a few new designs

4) Did we mention we design? LOL

Four things on my To-Do list:

1) Just 4 things? Well, let's see...Write our blogs for the week.

2) Work on "Special Top Secret Project"

3) Plan for the Expo in January

4) Design new invitations

Four of my guiltiest pleasures:

1) Gossip Blogs

2) Wedding Blogs

3) Paper

4) Shopping

(Giovanni would like me to add Cake as a guilty pleasure...he's a strange boy! lol)

Tag! You're it!

We're gonna tag The k Gallery!

So, I've come to a decision...

2008-10-24T08:25:00.000-04:00

As you all may remember, I posted a blog to help me decided on a bridesmaids dress. Well, ladies and gents, we have a winner!

And the Winning Dress is......

Dress # 1!!!

Thanks for the comments. It really helped me narrow it down! You guys are awesome! I'll be sure to post pictures of me in this cute little dress!

How Engaging...

2008-10-23T08:11:00.000-04:00

Every girl has her idea of a dream engagement ring. I know I do! Now, granted I'm not getting married anytime soon, but, in a perfect fantasy world it would come in a little blue box with a white bow! Yes, it would come from Tiffany & Co. Who wouldn't want that, right!? So I decided to see what they had in stock. What I found is that these aren't just mere rings anymore. Some of them are more like art. Very shinny art, lol. Check out a few of my favorites! Could you imagine having your prince charming pop the question with one of these?! A girl can dream....

Photos from google images

What We Do!

2008-10-22T09:13:00.001-04:00

We figured we barely ever talk about our wonderful invitations, so why not show you a few. Now remember, we design custom invitations, we are not photographers. You can't really appreciate these babies in a crappy picture, but if you squint your eyes and turn your head to the side you can see the invitations. = )

Below is a new one we created a few weeks ago. It has a very monochromatic color scheme and some beautiful details such as the pull out knot, metallic papers, and scroll motif rub-ons. It's a beauty!

Here is one of my favorites.... I'm not really sure why, it's truly not my style at all, but I like the formal informality of it. Ya know!? It's very playful and fun. I love it!

So there you have it.... We actually work! = ) What do you think? You like? We will be posting a few more invitations later in the week, so check back for more!

And the Winner is.....

2008-10-21T11:54:00.000-04:00

Kari!!!!!

After all the great submissions for our first contest, Alicia who is an Associate Marketing Manager with MOO picked Kari as the winner!!!! She says " I chose it because it was the most creative and interesting and not something we've really seen any of our customers do before. "

We couldn't agree more, Kari did a great job describing how she would use her MOO products in a creative way.....

My latest obsession has been placecards, and the MOO cards would make absolutely perfect ones!!

So here's my idea...

I'm having a relatively small wedding, and almost all of the guests are going to be family. So it would be really cool to get pictures of all of my guests, and even better, if it's a married couple, a picture from their wedding. And then I would make all of the images black and white, and put them on the MOO cards. Then, I would paint a pink artsy table number on each of the MOO cards. To top off the placecards, it would be really neat to attach a clip to the back of each card and have them all clipped to a piece of thick black satin ribbon and hung from a wall. It would be really chic and abstract, and when the guests arrive, they just look for their photos... no names necessary! :O)

Congratulations to Kari, and thank you to all the really great submissions we received!!!

Also, a VERY special thanks to Alicia and the guys over at MOO for this giveaway!!

Kake Kreations

2008-10-21T11:13:00.000-04:00

Do you remember when we were yapping about the sweet treat that we received from KB's last week? Read it again here.

Well.....They have finally been introduced on KB's blog! They are Gourmet Kake Truffles called Kake Kreations! Let us just tell you how good they are....

They are FREAKIN good!!! They are amazingly moist and decadent. They are available at Dorn's Wine Warehouse and of course through KB's directly. You have to go get some. Delish!

We designed the labels for these little guys, and take a look how cute they turned out....

Attention Fashionistas: Stop Everything you're doing...

2008-10-21T09:00:00.000-04:00

...and check out this blog post Solutions Bridal wrote about the sneak peek of the Kenneth Pool Fall 09 collection. I think I'm in love! LOL For those who don't know, Austin Scarlett, from season 1 of Project Runway, is currently the designer and creative director of Kenneth Pool. His designs are...WOW! So go...go now....! Check this out! It's well worth it!

Sick Day

2008-10-20T11:56:00.000-04:00

We have called in to work. No work today, sorry! I feel like poo poo. We promise some great blog posts later in the week and some big big news.

Due to our head being clogged up there is no way we can pick a winner for the MOO contest, so we are extending the contest until tomorrow. One more day to enter to win a free MOO printed product. If you haven't entered, you still have a chance!

See you all tomorrow!!!

- Giovanni

Did that just happen?

2008-10-17T08:41:00.001-04:00

I don't know how in the world I came accoss this video but I kid you not this is hilarious! I've seen some interesting first dances but this one is...well...special!
For all you Gator fans out there...enjoy! Who knew Albert and Alberta could move like that!

Video: From Youtube

Contest - One Day Left!

2008-10-16T09:38:00.003-04:00

Tomorrow is the final day for the MOO giveaway!

Get your comments in and win any MOO printed product! MOO products make excellent promotional material. Nobody has ANYTHING to promote? Christmas is coming up, maybe you can think of something creative for the Holidays. Ok, now we are giving away too much.

We want to hear from you, our blog followers. How you would use your MOO product OR how you would use a MOO product to design a creative invitation. Post your answers here.

Winner will be announced Monday!!!

Auf Wiedersehen....

2008-10-16T08:20:00.000-04:00

From the top: Jerell's design, Kenley's design

Korto's design, LeAnne's design

As in fashion, one day you're in, the next you're out!

I don't know about you guys, but I'm a huge, HUGE, fan of Project Runway. When the final four were given the challenge to design wedding dresses along with their final designs, I knew I was going to have to blog about it! I mean, given the diversity of the designs we've seen so far, I just knew these were going to be amazing. Well as you can see, some were amazing, while others just left you amazed that the human mind could think of something so completely nuts! LOL

I was not a fan of Jerell's dress, there was simply too much going on. It was ridiculous! The same can be said for Korto's dress. While it's a little less flashy than Jerell's dress, all the pleating and detail work just made the dress look far too messy. Very over worked. As far as Kenly's dress goes, it's great, I wouldn't want it for MY wedding dress, but someone out there will. And they will look fierce in it!!! It's very Carrie Bradshaw and I'm more of a Charlotte, lol! And last but not least, LeAnne. She was the winner in my book. Her dress was a dream! It was couture at it's finest. The detail work is fantastic! I swoon...Ha!

Well, that was my opinion, what do you think about these top designs?

Photos from Bravotv.com

A Unique Contest!

2008-10-15T09:00:00.000-04:00

It's time for our first-ever giveaway!!!! We are so excited! MOO is giving one of our lucky readers a free gift! The winner will win a free printed product of their choice. We're a bit jealous because we want them really bad, so we want to make you work for it....

Here's how this is going to go:

We want you to tell us what you would do with your free MOO product OR tell us how you would turn your MOO product into a creative invitation! That's it, no rules, just be creative! Don't forget to post for the world to see!

Visit MOO.com to see all of the wonderful products you can choose from!

Most creative answer wins, answers will be accepted until Friday at 5:00PM! We will announce a winner on Monday! Good Luck!

Cow Say What?

2008-10-15T08:30:00.002-04:00

Moo is a London based printing company. They print on their products using your own images uploaded through their website or through online picture sharing sites such as flickr, bebo, or even your facebook. They also have pre-designed options to choose from. Moo offers a variety of great products such as:

MiniCards

Super cute, fun mini cards are about half the size of business cards and come 100 to a box. Each card can be completely different! Upload away!!!!

Business Cards

Say goodbye to tired old business cards, say hello to Moo Business Cards! These come 200 in a a box, and can have up to 50 different images.

Take a look at the cool box they come in!

MOO Stickers

90 stickers in one colorful little book! That's up to 90 different photos or designs, printed onto stickers and bound into a pocket size book!

Browse around MOO.com to see all that they have to offer. We LOVE us some MOO!

Tomorrow!

2008-10-14T14:39:00.003-04:00

Get your creative juices flowing!!!! We will be announcing a contest for our blog followers tomorrow!

Bride Wars!

2008-10-14T08:30:00.005-04:00

Take a look at the trailer for a new movie called Bride Wars! Anne Hathaway and Kate Hudson will play best friends who are pitted against each other when their wedding dates clash. They compete for venues, services and guests, once it's clear that neither will step aside. The movie looks super fun. Take a look....

Cute, huh?
"If I were your wedding, I would sleep with one eye open" ha ha!
Now this leaves us to question....why not reschedule if you are
best friends? Would you?

How Sweet!

2008-10-13T10:00:00.001-04:00

We received the best gift this past week. KB's Kake Kreations dropped off a sweet little package with a new kreation! We cannot give away too much information yet, but let's just say that you will die when you see an taste these little guys! Simply AMAZING!!!!!!!

Once KB's post about it we will give you our full review of the new ____________________!!!!!

If you really can't wait, just call KB's Kake Kreations and ask... "what on earth is Unique Designs raving about?"

Expo Pictures!!!

2008-10-13T08:30:00.001-04:00

Happy Monday!

It's been over a month and we have not shared pictures from our first expo! Here are a few pictures for those of you who could not be there.

Pretty Signs

Fabulosity

Shots of our Couture Line

More Couture

Urn full of Envelopments with 3 dozen roses

and Kristin from MasterPiece Weddings!

See what you missed!? We had the best time meeting everybody, we are already planning for our next show in January. See you there!

Who is Amy Atlas!?

2008-10-10T09:35:00.001-04:00

A high end dessert bar!? Who could resist!!!! We found out about the wonderful and talented Amy Atlas and we love her work! Her tables are true pieces of sweet art! Take a look at some of her amazing work:

Amy is the owner of Amy Atlas Events in New York City. It is evident that her attention to detail is what has made her business successful. The color coordination and overall aesthetics are beautiful. Take a look at her website for more yummy goodness. YUMM!

In the Works : Arielle and Stephan

2008-10-09T09:35:00.001-04:00

"We picked the meat, now what cheese do we want?" - That is the question Stephan asked Arielle at our initial consultation, referring to a previous comment I made comparing our many selections to Subway. We met Stephan and Arielle at the Bridal Expo, they were so great and so enthusiastic! Their sense of humor made every selection a blast.

Their wedding will be in a secret location in Germany in Stephan's hometown! I know, how romantic! The location is amazing! It's breathtaking, and their guest are in for a great treat. The activities leading up to the event are full of German traditions that their guests are sure to never forget.

The invitation that we are working on is a rich detail driven design full of charm. The final design will mimic the style of the room where the reception will take place, and it will be printed in English and German! This couple has to be one of our favorites to date! They were so much fun and it was a pleasure hearing their suggestions for their {unique} invitations! We can't wait to show you the final sub! Stay tuned.

A little help from my friends....

2008-10-08T08:35:00.000-04:00

I need a little help...

I'm going to be a bridesmaid in one of my best friend's wedding in April and I want to get some other opinions about the dress options. So with out further ado....

Dress # 1

And Dress # 2

The dresses are from David's Bridal, and the color is called Pool. The wedding is going to be a small cozy out door wedding, with all her loved ones. I'm so honored to be in the wedding and I want to look my best! So, with that said, give me some feedback, which dress do you like the best!? Thanks guys!!!

Posted by: Kenya

Isn't She Lovely!?

2008-10-07T08:47:00.002-04:00

We have the best clients in the WORLD!! A few months ago we posted about Eiryn and Vince, they were amazing to work with and we finally delivered their beautiful invitations a few weeks back. It was all great, especially when we delivered her 200 vineyard themed invitations packed neatly in wine crates!! (see invitation above) Her face just lit up! She even cried!

Anyway, a few days later we received a call from Eiryn asking if we could make a change to one of the inserts in her invitations to correct a spelling of a name. Without any hesitation we got right to work on the Bridal Entourage insert and corrected the spelling, reprinted, and delivered them to her. Last week we received the sweetest email ever.....

" Thank You so much for the revised cards! You were very prompt with your delivery. You made a potential stressful episode seem easy. I appreciate your hard work, and I am very proud that our invitations represent Vince and I. I love my invitations...Truly....Madly....Deeply, and all the little thoughtful extras that you included!

I will definitely drop your name to whom ever needs your services.

I hope to hear good things about you and the business in the future....Also hope to see you soon!

Thank You very much,
Eiryn and Vince"

Another reason why our clients ROCK!

Photo taken by: Footstone Photography

Heel or No Heel?

2008-10-06T08:00:00.002-04:00

The question that so many women ask themselves on a daily basis; "should I wear heels today?".

For Victoria Beckham, there is no question here, it's always heel day! Or is it? During her recent Signature fragrance launch at Macy’s Herald Square in New York City, for the first time in maybe forever every, she went heel-less! Not like you may be thinking though...

The 5 1/2in Antonio Berardi boots had no heel - just the thing to attract passersby and entice them in for the launch of her new perfume at Macy's department store at the weekend.

The English-Italian designer Berardi is an old friend of the Beckhams and made their post-ceremony outfits for their wedding nine years ago.

He started the heel-less shoe trend in the summer with a £1,800 sandal bought by Mrs Beckham, Uma Thurman and Gwyneth Paltrow.

These new boots are made to order with a price tag of £3,300, and have already sold 60 pairs.

This is a trend that seems to be coming around. I personally LOVE IT! I'm sure it's not that comfortable but ladies, beauty is pain.

Manolo Blahnik's new heel-less sandals

Got three grand to spare? Then you can buy yourself Manolo Blahnik's latest shoe invention, the heel-less 'Arunium' shoe with its United Nude style bouncy, empty wedge. It's his alternative to the clunky platforms that are around at the moment (which the Maestro despises). The metal stud decoration on the shoes was inspired by Medieval churches, and they're yours for £3, 145 if you can find them).
It just keeps coming...

So...Heel or No Heel?

Always a Bridesmaid...

2008-10-03T08:30:00.001-04:00

In the movie 27 Dresses, Malcolm (James Marsden) explains that the reason that bridesmaids dresses are so hideous is because brides have a hidden agenda to make the bridesmaids look as bad as possible, thus making themselves look even more fabulous.

Ok, so maybe that isn't really the case. Most brides really do want their best girls to look as great as they do! Here are 5 trends from the Knot.com that will ensure your maids look as perfect as you do on the big day! Let's face it, when they look good, you look good!

Top image from Holiday Go Lightly

Bottom Image from The Knot.com

Spooky Chic!

2008-10-02T09:21:00.003-04:00

Boo!!! It's Halloween month and we are soo excited! We love holidays around here, any excuse to celebrate! Speaking of celebrating.... The wonderful Hostess with the Mostess has some uber exciting Halloween party ideas. Just check out the Spooky Chic party theme with deep orange roses, and toxic cocktails; Or the Ghoul's Night with it's trendy black and pink decor. It's diva, diva, diva! Hot pink skulls, and rhinestones everywhere! They are to DIE for! Muahh aahhh haaa aaahh!!

Browse around and enjoy her "spine tingling" blog, it's a feast for the eyes. We can't get enough!

Photo Credits: Hostess with the Mostess

Complete Bliss...

2008-10-01T08:16:00.002-04:00

Today, I wanted to share with you one of my favorite blogs, the blissful bride. It's such a cool and laid back blog by Amanda Young, who is equally as laid back! She's so sweet. We love her and we look forward to getting to know her better!

I think one of my favorite things about this blog is that she is genuinely excited about the things she post about. And it's contagious, it makes you just as excited to read what she has to say. So why are you still here? Go read her blog...go on!!!

Inspiration Board - Hollywood Glam

2008-09-30T09:55:00.000-04:00

I had to share this inspirartion board I found online today. First, let me say that I love anything old hollywood. Marylin, Audry, and of course, Elizabeth! So this really jumped out to me. I really love that everything is black and white. So chic...

Enjoy!

InspirationBoard from Australia Entertains

Blog Mention

2008-09-29T09:13:00.001-04:00

Remember our "In the Works: Kari and Christopher" post? Well, we have been mentioned on Kari's blog, Kee To Your Heart. It was so great to find out that she loves us, she really does!!! Clients like Kari make us love what we do even more!

Thanks Kari for posting about little ol us!!!

Let's get this party started!

2008-09-26T09:08:00.002-04:00

Happy Friday!!!

Check out these 14 ideas for a not-so-dirty Bachelorette Party. Because lets face it, what usually comes to mind when you think of bachelorette parties? Yea, exactly! Mind goes stright to the gutter! LOL Click the image below to check it out!

In the Works: Let's Eat Cake

2008-09-25T10:55:00.001-04:00

We're currently working on invitations for the Let's Eat Cake fundraising event hosted by Masterpiece Weddings. For those of you who aren't familar with this amazing event, it's a cake competition being held to raise money to benifit St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital. It's going to be a wonderful event and we couldn't be more honored to be a part of it and design super funky invitations!

These invitations will be used to invite extremely talented bakers from all over! They are green, pink, and full of spunk! Can't wait for you to see!! Check back soon for a sneak peek!

In the Works: Kari and Christopher

2008-09-23T10:12:00.000-04:00

On the average consultations for us take 30 minutes to an hour to discuss in detail what you envision for your custom invitations....unless you are Kari! LOL She was one of our favorite brides to date! It honestly felt like the time just flew by, her ideas and excitement for her wedding was so...well...exciting!!!

Kari is a great girl who loves pink and black and all things vintage glam! We're currently in the process of creating a fab 5x5 black and pink invitation for her wedding. Stay tuned for more on that soon!

Also, Kari has a blog called Kee to you heart where I found these cuties, they are accordion scrapbooks. And get this...She made them herself!!! A girl after my own heart!

(Open View http://www.keetoyourheart.com/)

(Closed view via http://www.keetoyourheart.com/)

Time to Man Up!

2008-09-23T09:51:00.000-04:00

This one's for the guys. Ladies we know you should be the focus on your special day, but where would you be without that strapping young fellow next to you!? Let's face it, he is in the pictures too. Read below and forward to your favorite boy!

Guys!
Grooming for your special day is extremely important. While everybody waits for the bride to make her big debut, what do they do? They stare at you! Why not give them a sexy new face to stare at, we are talking shaving, plucking, moisturizing, shellacking, drilling, stuccoing, and anything else you can think of to make your face glow (a manly glow of course). Like a beer bottle in the moonlight.

Let's not forget the ever-important haircut and if you are ready to go where some do not dare......THE MANICURE! Yes, we went there. There is nothing sexy about the splinters you got while trying to build that stand to hold your new 42 inch plasma TV. All of these minor details help make the day extra special, not only for you but for your bride-to-be. We found a great website that breaks it down for you in a "man-ish" way: www.thegroomguide.com. Read below for some of the excerpts from the article on grooming for the big day and tell us what you think. It's a rather fun read.

“Never outshine the master”.
Words to live by, especially when it comes to your wedding. Yes, the Bride-to-Be is the “master”. The Bride is the focus, center of attention, and the one everybody stares at when you’re both walking down the aisle. This is her special day, but every Queen needs a King. It’s time for a crash course in looking like you belong on that throne. We’ll tell you everything you need to know about looking your very best without looking like you spent more time then the Bride-to-Be.

Nail it down
Look at your fingers. Look carefully. How long are your nails? Do you see pieces of donut inside your fingernails? Would your nails set off store alarms? Does it look like a pair of hungry hyenas gnawed on them all night? It may be time to visit the local nail salon.
Yes, we know. It makes you look like a Nancy Boy. And the truth is, it probably will. But there is a light (a rather dim light) at the end of this tunnel. When your wife or everybody at the whole frickin wedding holds your hands, they will not be repulsed, and they certainly won’t pick up any coodies. Somebody once said that,”God is in the details”. Let those words speak for themselves. In terms of your body, this is like icing on the cake. It makes everything look a hell of a lot better. It shows everybody that you’re a man of class, and you enjoy the finer things in life...like hygiene for example. Plus, the “hand in hand” pictures will live for forever!

Visit The Groom Guide for more tips on grooming for the groom. Hope this helps.

Resource: www.thegroomguide.com

Hi...My Name is....

2008-09-22T13:00:00.003-04:00

I think we need clear some things up. There are some rumors that need to be addressed. Ok, so they aren't rumors but they still need to be fixed.

There is some confusion out there on the name of our company. Here's a few of the alias' we "apparently" go by:

Dare to B Unique - Dare to B Unique is the slogan for our company and of course the web address. We chose this b/c we want to dare our customers to not just go with the ordinary and traditional. But to think outside the box and make their own rules!)
Unique Couture (Actually this is a new line of custom invitations we offer. Their very glam, offer Thai silk boxes, and an array of embellishments. Not that I'm bias but these babies are fierce! )

So let's recap: While we dare you to b unique and check out out new line of invitations called Unique Couture....We are Unique Designs: A custom invitation studio!

Let Desire Guide You....

2008-09-22T10:00:00.003-04:00

Unique Designs unleashes a new collection to fulfill your fashion fetish. Introducing, Unique Couture. A luxurious line of custom invitations featuring imported Thai silks in an array of vivid colors, ethereal crystal brooches and Swarovski crystal accents. Inspired by the couture runways of Milan and Paris, this collection brings a sense of high fashion to a world of uninspired stationery. You live for fashion...You're a fashion goddess in very sense of the word. So shouldn't your invitations reflect that?

Be a Goddess...

Check www.daretobunique.com on Friday, September 26th for even more stunning pictures from Unique Couture.

PS. Head over to the Solutions Bridal Blog, they posted about us and we are so thrilled!!!!