You're Invited: Engaged! in Washington

"Brides and grooms can meet {truly} the best of the best wedding vendors, see their work, and make appointments on the spot. Vendors are vetted and and known for their stellar reputations in the wedding market. Seriously, you could meet all of your wedding vendors in one day!"

The first 300 brides/grooms receive a fabulous goody bag AND the cost of admission is rebated by many of the vendors when contracting their services!* Hire 4 of the vendors, receive a rebate of $65 x 4, so it pays to attend Engaged! in Washington! (*Exceptions will apply; see the show program the day of the show!)

Limo buses will shuttle between each venue throughout the event so guests can stay as long as they want and not worry about parking!

Mark your calendars and don't miss simply the finest bridal event in the city! Purchase your tickets HERE

Take a look at a recap of last year's show!

How to Host A Superbowl Party in Style!

Superbowl Sunday is only a month away! While the typical parties will be serving Buffalo wings and pizza, we have a few suggestions to help host your party in style! I pulled a few of our favorite recipes that will have your guests running into the kitchen every chance they get!

Triple Pork Sliders

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds ground pork

• 1/2 pound fresh Mexican chorizo sausage, casings removed

• 1/4 cup finely grated pepper jack cheese

• 1 small shallot, finely chopped

• 1 clove garlic, finely chopped

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 8 slices applewood smoked bacon, cooked crisp

• 16 small dinner rolls, sliced in half

• Curly leaf lettuce

• 3 sliced plum tomatoes

• Smoked Paprika Mayonnaise, recipe follows

Directions

Preheat a flat top grill pan to medium-high heat.

In a medium bowl, mix the ground pork, sausage, cheese, shallot, garlic, and salt and pepper, to taste. Form the meat mixture into small equal-sized patties.

Cook the burgers for 3 to 4 minutes on each side. Remove them from the pan and serve on split rolls with a half a slice of bacon, lettuce, tomato and Smoked Paprika Mayonnaise.

Smoked Paprika Mayonnaise:

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise

• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon hot sauce (recommended: Sriracha)

Directions:

Mix all of the ingredients together in s medium bowl. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until serving, allowing the flavors to meld. Can be made a day ahead.

Smoked Gouda-Chorizo Jalapeno Poppers

Ingredients:

• 2 links Mexican chorizo, casings removed

• 1/2 pound smoked gouda, shredded

• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onions

• 1 egg

• 1/2 cup cream cheese

• 3 tablespoons sour cream

• 1 tablespoon hot sauce (recommended: Frank's Red Hot)

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 12 large jalapeno peppers, stemmed, seeded and halved

Directions:

Special Equipment: parchment paper

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Brown chorizo in a skillet over medium-high heat, about 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and place into a large mixing bowl. Add the cheese, red onion, egg, cream cheese, sour cream, hot sauce, and salt and pepper, to taste. Press into jalapeno halves and assemble on a parchment lined baking sheet. Bake until golden and bubbly, about 20 minutes.

Grilled Shrimp with Orange-Habanero Mojo

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice

• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 tablespoon seeded and chopped pickled habanero chile peppers (or use 1 tablespoon habanero hot sauce)

• 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard

• Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper

• 16 jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 1 pound)

Directions:

Soak eight 8-inch wooden skewers in cold water for at least 15 minutes and up to 1 hour. Meanwhile, make the mojo: Combine the orange juice, 1/4 cup olive oil, the pickled habaneros, half of the garlic, the cilantro, mustard, and salt and pepper to taste in a medium bowl; whisk well and set aside.

Combine the remaining garlic and 1/4 cup olive oil in a small bowl. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Skewer the shrimp and brush with some of the oil-garlic mixture on both sides; season with salt and pepper. Grill until opaque, about 2 minutes per side, brushing with the remaining oil-garlic mixture. Arrange on a platter and drizzle with the orange-habanero mojo.

The Year of the Flowers 2014

While flowers tend to part of every wedding, this year, floral arrangements are getting a serious upgrade. Flowers are being woven into the décor more than ever before from oversized cascade bridal bouquets, elaborate flower installations that hang over the dance floor to draping elaborate displays at tables, having fresh flower ceremony arches, decking out cake canopies with flowers and displaying escort cards and seating arrangements on a fresh flower wall. Here are a few great ideas to consider when planning your big day.

You're Invited: ZAAF's Official Launch Party at Barcelona Wine Bar

We are excited to share some great client news! You're invited to the Official Launch Event for ZAAF™, a new collection of luxury apparel and leather accessories produced by highly skilled artisans in Ethiopia. We spotlighted them about a month ago and now we are planning their launch in Washington, D.C. Each piece is made to exact standards and showcases beautiful craftsmanship and natural resources unique to the region it draws its inspiration from. ZAAF™ is a word that means “tree” in the ancient and noble Amharic language. We hope you can join us in celebrating this great new business and support bringing economic development in Ethiopia!

Event: ZAAF Official Launch Event

Date: February 2nd 2014

Time: 12:00pm-4:00pm

Place: NEW! Barcelona Wine Bar - 1622 14th St NW Washington, DC 20005

RSVP: http://zaaflaunchdc.eventbrite.com

Attire: Brunch Chic 

Parking: Street Parking Available

Complimentary Cocktails & Passed Food for Guests

ZAAF Products will be on sale at the event with 20% off!

For more information: info@zaafcollection.com

Event Hashtag: #ZAAFLaunch

Social Media: @Zaafcollection (Instagram)

#FavoredFr​iday Vendor Spotlight: Tunji Sarumi Photograph​y

"We all see the world differently, and I believe my talent for telling stories through photography is a gift from God. I am neither especially clever, nor especially gifted. I am only very, very curious. I am enough of an artist to draw freely upon my imagination during some of life’s most important moments." - Tunji Sarumi

Tunji Sarumi is an extremely talented photographer based out of Baltimore, MD. His work is timeless, capturing moments during the wedding in a very artistic but natural way. Check out a few of his pictures that I absolutely loved below.

To see more of his amazing work and for contact information, check out his website http://tunjistudio.com/

Winter Wedding Decor Inspiration

Winter is my favorite time for the year for weddings. I love how you can use the already romantic and festive season to create a perfect indoor atmosphere. Instead of opting for the typical red and green, include purples, blues, and white combinations to naked trees for an icy feel. If you are thinking of planning a winter wonderland wedding, check out some inspiration below.

Instead of candles in tall cylinders, place tall trees draped in beaded strands or crystals to make your reception space pop.

Create an unexpected ceremony space with blue uplighting and lots and lots of trees.

Gold and subtle hints or green are a nice accent to any table. Add ornaments for an inexpensive way to stay with the festive theme.

A rosette tablecloth, various candle holders, and white naked trees are perfect for a winter reception.

Opt for ornament placeholders to guide your guests to the right seat.

What is winter without fur?! Drape fur around wicker seats for a winter vintage wedding. Add chandeliers to make it glamourous.

Sweets anyone? Gift your guests with mini pies, macaroons, and other tiny treats to remember your big day.

Don't fret flower lovers! You can bring spring into your wedding with big bold arrangements. Add a tree for good measure. : )

New Years Eve 2013 Beauty Ideas

 

Nails – Create a stunning nail look for any special occasion with this innovative two piece set that creates true mirror-like shine.

Scent – When you walk by or hug someone you want them to tell you how amazing you smell. From a floral explosion like Flower Bomb to Prada Candy impulsive charm and Marc Jacobs Daisy fresh and feminine, with a playful innocence you can never go wrong with any of these perfumes.

Lips – Your lipstick always makes or breaks your whole outfit. Use a ‘wow’ shade to brighten up a simple outfit, and if your outfit is the opposite opt for subtle nude lipstick.

Eyes – For those you want those bright sexy eyes for this NYE try a Holographic Glitter eye shadow look. Sephora has a three-piece kit for accomplishing this beauty look. "Clearly Liquid" glitter base keeps all loose product adhered to eyelids and lashes including all other skin surfaces. This formula also provides a comfortable protective layer over your base makeup, keeping colors bright and crease free. Also don’t forget those perfectly shaped brows and lashes to add more drama.

Face – As we all love to say “Got my Face Beat” it sounds a little too dramatic if you ask me. When doing your making always contour and highlight to show off those amazing high cheek bones.

Hair – When it comes to hair one word VOLUME.!!!

Ladies this is the only time of the year we can do up our makeup and say “I Woke Up Like This”

Top 10 Engagement Rings of 2013

2013 was a big year for celebrity engagements and with engagements comes HUGE rings. Check out the list of the most expensive rings of 2013 put together by Simply Bridal.

I am going to add one more ring to the list, that didn't quite make the cut off. D.Wade proposed to his girlfriend Gabrielle Union over the weekend with a ring worth an estimated $1 million. It is a 8.5 carat, cushion cut ring designed by celeb jeweler Jason of Beverly Hills! Her rock FLAWLESS *in my Beyonce voice*!

You're Invited: Washingtonian Bride & Groom Unveiled

To buy tickets click here

Real Wedding: A Zimbabwean Safari Wedding

We have definitely seen an increase trend in couples from across the globe opting to tie the knot in a picturesque country, like Africa. But when I came across this gorgeous Zimbabwe Safari wedding, I see why this landscape, the people and the variety of stunning cultural aspects make it such a great place to get married. Corey and Lynette Perkins flew all the way to Zimbabwe from the United States for their wedding. It was the first time Lynette had been back in her home country in four years and the first time the groom had met her family.

Yes they even had a cute special guest :) How cool is this photo with an elephant?

The groom is American and even though he hadn’t met his in-laws before, they seem to have gotten along great.

The beautiful bridal party jumping for joy!

Love the wooden fram shots the photographer incorporated in their wedding photography. Great & low cost!

Love the colors of the bridesmaids traditional Zimbabwean dresses. The patterns, tangerine & lime green really pop!

The sweetest part of this couples lovely wedding story is before their wedding day, the couple spent time building a safe-house for young girls suffering from abuse. 

Ceremony setup right under a symbolic tree! Very simple but so classic.

When choosing a location for a destination wedding, many couples choose tropical islands as an easy and low cost option, but why not go for a gorgeous country like Zimbabwe, Senegal, South Africa or Ethiopia since there are an abundance of stunning locations to choose from. Love how this couple incorporated traditional dancers at their wedding.

The couple also honeymooned at beautiful Victoria Falls.

Overall from these gorgeous photos from Corey & Lynette we see that Zimbabwe is truly a remarkable destination, set apart from other international weddings locations due to the warm hospitable nature of the people and meticulous attention to detail and amazing scenic views. Congrats to them for staying true to themselves and having a beautiful love!

Recap: Ritz-Carlt​on Washington DC Ballroom Unveiled

A few weeks ago, we told you about Ritz-Carlton Washington, DC event where they unveiled their new ballroom. The event took place earlier this week and it was beautiful! The Ritz went with a Winter Wonderland Theme where guests were whisked into a ballroom with snowfall and evergreen trees. I love the elegant décor and the subtle hints of color that enhance the “icy” feel of winter. Check out how the staff at Capital Décor and Events executed this event flawlessly.

"The Ritz-Carlton Washington DC sponsored a Wishing Tree to assist Martha's Table in providing holiday presents to children in need."

Source: Engaged! Magazine

Photography: Steve Canning of Steve Canning Photography.

Venue: Ritz Carlton Washington, DC

VIDEO: In my Christmas Jammies!!

In the age of viral videos, the Holderness Family decided to one up all of our typical family portraits and put together a Christmas Card Video. In the video, Dad and Mom rap about all of their family accomplishments to Will Smith’s Miami. This may be my favorite Christmas video of the year and I may or may not be planning to do this next year with my friends lol. See the full video below. Enjoy!!

WestJet Gets in the Christmas Spirit!

WestJet Airlines may be my new favorite company! On Monday, the Canadian Airline released a video of them setting up a box with an electronic santa. One by one travelers stepped up to the box and gave their wishes to santa before boarding a plane. Once they got to thier destination, they all received a big surprise at baggage claim. See how WestJet spread the Christmas spirit to thier customers after the break.

This is what I love about Christmas! Its so nice to see a Company organize such a selfless act. Good for them!

Submit you Engagement and Bridal Photos to Engaged! Magazine

Hey brides and future brides! Have you ever looked through your favorite bridal magazine or website and wondered how brides got there wedding and/or engagement published? Well here is your chance! Dust off your wedding album and pick out your favorite photo for a chance to be published in Engaged! Magazine! See below for all criteria.

#WeddingWednesday: Luvabull Proposal

As most of our frequent readers know, we at Favored by Yodit are suckers for a cute proposal. When we came across this super cute proposal we had to share it. Check out how one boyfriend changed the sporting event proposal game with this flash mob proposal for his dancer girlfriend. *Grabs tissue*

If you need help planning a propoal that the love of your life will NEVER forget, contact Favored by Yodit today!

#FavoredFr​iday Vendor Spotlight: Baked by Melissa

Why purchase fruit cakes, and boring ginger bread cookies for your next party when you can have a fun spread of cupcakes! Gone are the days of simple vanilla and chocolate cupcakes, now Christmas themed treats are at your finger tips. Baked by Melissa makes it easy to get creative with your dessert table. Check out more about her business and her cupcake art below.

Baked by Melissa started after she was fired from her 9 to 5 in 2008. Inspired by her love to bake and her wanting all to enjoy desserts guilt free, Baked by Melissa was born. In 2009 the first Baked by Melissa bakery opened in New York City. Now her cupcake art can be created online or visitors can browse and purchase creations by others or herself on the website. The creations range from proposals, sports, and logos. If you can imagine it, you can create it! I love this idea and the best part is the cupcakes are mini so you won't feel bad about breaking you diet! So indulge a little and check out Baked by Melissa for your next event!

Real Engagement: Mahelet and Nate

A night of Karaoke bought Mahelet and Nate together in 2010 and unbeknownst to them was the beginning of the rest of their lives together.

"He bravely went up to sing multiple times, while I sat shyly with the group enjoying everyone's performances. Neither one of us realized then what the future had in store for us, but that's one of the beautiful things about life...the unexpected.

We are each others first loves, and it was well worth the wait."

Mahelet and Nate got engaged on June 6, 2013 during an intimate evening at his home after rain spoiled Nate's original plans. We can't wait to plan their summer wedding next year! Check out a few of their engagement photos below. Congrats to the happy couple!!

You're Invited: Black Bride Presents The Bridal Brunch DC

Mix and Mingle with wedding vendors in an elegant relaxed boutique-style layout at the beautiful Carnegie Library in Washington, DC. Dine on delicious brunch fare, and champagne cocktails from our “Married” Mimosa bar while being serenaded by DC’s finest jazz performers. There will be expert discussions, and a fashion segment featuring gowns from local elite bridal salons. Brides will find everything they need to plan their dream wedding under one roof! Top industry insiders and wedding experts will be on hand to offer tips, tricks and guidance in creating not just a wedding, but a lifetime experience.

Black Bride Requests the Honour of Your Presence

at

The Bridal Brunch, DC

Sunday, March 9, 2014

Noon to 5 p.m.

The Carnegie Library at Mt Vernon Square

801 K Street, NW | Washington, DC 20001

For more information and to purchase tickets click here.

African Luxe: Meet ZAAF Collection Made in Ethiopia!

ZAAF is ZAAF™ is a collection of luxury apparel and leather accessories produced by highly skilled artisans in Ethiopia.

Love seeing young and driven people do what they love! Check out this article on Abai Schulze, Founder of ZAAF and also a friend who is under 30 and already making an impact in the industry!

ZAAFcollection.com officially launched with a redesigned homepage and online store just in time for the holidays. Shop ZAAF today! http://zaafcollection.com/ Make sure you to stay connected to them!

Website: www.zaafcollection.com Follow us on Twitter: @ZAAF_Collection.

#FavoredFr​iday Vendor Spotlight: The Girl Tyler Design & Photograph​y

 

Favored by Yodit Events is always looking for new vendors whose work we love to spotlight. Last week we came across an Ethiopian wedding video that we absolutely LOVED and decided to look up the company that put it together. The Girl Tyler Design & Photography "is a full-service wedding-enthused company that offers print marketing, still and motion photography, and stationery suite design to brides, grooms, and fellow wedding professionals". Check out the video and more about the company after the break.

The Girl Tyler Design and Photography focuses on four key areas:

1. Motion Photography: "We think the term videography stands as much for the type of camera as it does a robotic disposition: turn it on, hit record, repeat a few times, burn a DVD. In all honesty, we spend as much time crafting your story, choosing the right cameras and fine-tuning the settings, as we do editing after your big day. No one look is right for every wedding film, and we know how to dial the right one in. We call it Motion Photography, but it’s OK if you still call it video."

2. Paper Goods: "If you’re looking for CUSTOM WEDDING INVITATIONS it means you:

• want something completely unique
•  haven’t found “just the right” thing anywhere else
•  Seriously love great design (and paper too)

We’ve tackled Monograms, Save the Dates, Wedding Invitation Suites, Map Illustrations, Ceremony Programs, Signage Collections, Place Cards, Seating Charts, Menus, and so much more."

3. Still Photography:  "We know you don’t want to forget how in love you looked, your Mom tearing up during the ceremony, that surprise dip during the first dance or the best man’s wildly animated speech – it’s those moments and all the details in between that we love to capture as wedding photographers. We’ll let our images do the rest of the talking!"

4. Business Marketing: "Want your business to stand out from THE REST? We can tackle YOUR MARKETING with design, photography, and video.

We love working with other people who love what they do! We also know there are a lot of options out there today for consumers, which means you need more than your passion and awesome skills to shine. Let us help your business put its “best face forward” with a variety of marketing services – from logo and branding design to promotional photography and video."

For more information about The Girl Tyler Design & Photography check out thier website here.

Video Credits:

Hilton Alexandria Mark Center

Del Ray Baptist Church | www.delraybaptist.org

Beth El Hebrew Congregation | www.bethelhebrew.org

The Girl Tyler Photography