Brides and the rest of the viewing public, mark your calendars for an upcoming Herend artist signing event at Bering’s! Regardless if you are a Herend collector or are new to the brand, it is a great time to come in and see some beautiful artistry.
Bering’s Bride & Groom – Tina Fields & Jesse Campos
With all that goes into a wedding, it is easy to overlook the importance of wedding invitations. However, the invitation is one of the most essential parts of planning a wedding. Many hold the invitation as the foundation of the planning because it sets the tone of what guests are to expect on the wedding day, while at the same time helping them prepare for the event. As an invited guest, receiving a well thought-out invitation in the mail should make you ready for the wedding to arrive!
The way we present ourselves in verbal and written form can be very powerful and impactful. Subtleties like ‘what is in a name?’ are especially notable when making a formal
announcement to family, friends and loved ones. This acknowledgement and appreciation for holding something important enough to care how it comes across, is how I met Ms. Tina Fields and Mr. Jesse Campos.
While Tina and Jesse’s initial visit to the Bering’s Stationery Department might have seemed somewhat cut and dry when walking through the door, the newly engaged love birds would leave with a rich appreciation for the etiquette of ‘the invitation’. After all, wedding invitations are the first impression, and to some the most important.
Tina and Jesse will be married on November 19, at the beautiful Heights Villa here in Houston! The two were right on time in ordering their wedding invitations, and were welcomed by the Bering’s stationers.
Tina and Jesse met with Bering’s stationer, Leslie, to finalize their invitation details!
While I am not a stationer, I happened to be in the department when Tina came in to pick up her invitations. She was a glowing bride-to-be and opened up about what she had learned. In fact, I asked the couple to do this blog because of her genuine excitement about the process. It was refreshing to hear what she had to share; especially in an age of online stationery fulfillment.
Bering’s stationers Mary and Leslie helped guide the couple through the history and formality of the wedding invitation. The pair had many concerns, as most couples do when selecting their wedding invitations. They were curious as to why it was necessary to do a double envelope, as well as the need to add a piece of tissue.
History of the wedding invitation: The double envelope according to The Emily
Post Institute….
Before the 20th century, the postal service wasn’t very reliable. In fact, it was nearly nonexistent in certain areas. The only guaranteed way to deliver a wedding invitation was by hand delivery, usually sent by a hired courier or servant of the family. Since many of these deliveries were by horseback, the envelope might not arrive in the cleanest condition. Thus, the double envelope was designed. Once the courier reached his destination, he handed the invitation to the butler or housemaid, who then removed the outer envelope and handed the inner envelop along with the invitation to the master or mistress of the house. This is why it is now considered traditional to use the complete, formal name and address of your invited guests on the outer envelope of a double envelope set (or on the outside of a single envelope).
As mentioned above, there was also a question as to why it was necessary to include a thin piece of tissue in the invitation.
Bering’s note: The tissue…
There is a fun piece of history behind the tissue insert. Metal plate engraving was
invented by the 1600s. Since the engraving would easily smudge, a small piece of paper was placed on top to prevent this. That custom was simply passed on to preserve the delicate printing of wedding invitations and continues to be commonly used today.
You might be asking why all of the above is important to fold into your wedding invitations. Tina’s quote sums up this question, “Etiquette and manners have no borders it is straight across the line, there are no borders at all, it is just manners and etiquette and it is good.” She then added, “Rather or not the people receiving our invitation know the etiquette doesn’t matter. The important part to us is that we know it was done right.”
Here is a sample of the invitations they selected… Absolutely classic!!:
Another special detail that Leslie and Mary were able to suggest to Tina and Jesse was to place a little cross by Tina’s recently deceased father’s name on the wedding invitation. The couple was not sure how to include her father with the recent passing, and with this added touch, Tina said, “My mother stood a little taller when she saw it.”
As far as why the pair decided to order their invitations from Bering’s, Tina’s sister made the suggestion. Tina mentioned that she was a bit nervous about the cost, but that it wasn’t as much as she thought it would be. She added, “It was affordable, and with all things it is a matter of prioritizing what is important.”
While in the Stationery Department, Tina showed Jesse their wedding album… Isn’t is gorgeous??!!
Now that you’ve read your fill of all things stationery, let’s dig into the juicy details about the soon to be Mr. and Mrs. Campos!
Even though Tina and Jesse have known one another since high school, and graduated the same year, they took their time getting around to dating one another. This is partially attributable to the fact Jesse served our country in the U.S. military for the past twelve years. (Salute to Mr. Campos!) While Jesse was off serving, Tina was in the clouds- literally!! Tina is a Continental (and now United too) flight attendant, who flies internationally.
However, the two were destined to meet again. Tina was placed as one of their high school reunion organizers. As a way to rally the troops for the reunion, Tina began searching on Facebook. This search is how the two reunited, and a wonderful friendship was formed. As friendly as the two had become, unfortunately Jesse missed the reunion! …I suppose after so many years, what is a few more months?! And to Jesse’s credit, he was called up to
go back overseas.
Nonetheless, the two continued talking. When Jesse finally returned to the great state of Texas, Tina invited him to her family birthday party. Talk about a FIRST date! Tina’s
entire family (extended too), and friends were there. Fortunately, family is equally important to Jesse and after their first date, the two were inseparable. In looking back at their first date Tina commented that it was like, “My best friend walked through the door.”
Months later the two had a slight “spat” and Jesse told Tina, “I bet you $10 you will marry me.” Tina laughed after Jesse shared this tidbit with me. She was not happy at the time and did not think his statement was funny at all!
It turns out Jesse won the bet. Upon rounding out their two year courtship, Jesse asked Tina’s mother for permission to wed her daughter. Not only did Tina’s mother say yes, but
Tina did as well! Oops, I cut to the chase without sharing the sugary sweet proposal details!
…Good things come to those who wait, so here goes the proposal fun.
Upon retiring from the U.S. military, Jesse took a job in Las Vegas, NV. Tina flew out to meet him for a little visit. The two decided to walk around and explore the Vegas strip. Little did Tina know when she suggested the two go to the Venetian, that Jesse
had already made arrangements to propose there. Aren’t coincidences fun?!
After making their way to the gondola ride, Jesse got down on one knee (in the gondola) and asked Tina to marry him! She was overjoyed and without missing a beat, said “YES!”
Here is a little fun trivia for you. This dynamic duo share the same last name- only in two
different languages. In Spanish campos means fields! Tina joked that she will always be Ms. Fields! :)
Talk about a fun filled wedding blog, there is still more! Hello, we still have the exciting registry to share!!… So without further ado, let’s dish.
The two kicked off their wedding registry with Bering’s Bridal Specialist, Terry. She set the two up with a scanning gun and then helped get the cute couple started with their many options!
Stemware Pattern: Waterford’s Lismore Essence is sure to add a huge sparkle to any tabletop, cocktail party or family get-together!
Sterling Flatware: The two selected a gorgeous 5 piece silver setting by Wallace. The pattern is Grande Baroque. The setting is so ornate and lovely that they remind me of pieces of art!
Formal Place Setting: It was important to Tina to pay a subtle tribute to Jesse’s military service with Pickard’s Washington Dinner Plates. …It is such a regal setting!
Tina & Jesse wrapped up their bridal registry, with a stop or two to look at grilling and lawn and garden accessories.
To view Tina & Jesse’s wedding registry online click on the link below.
http://www.berings.com/GiftRegistry/1529-1684750-wedding.aspx
Tina & Jesse definitely complement one another! As glowing as Tina was when I first met her, being around Jesse only enhanced it. Leslie, Mary, Terry and I had a great time with the two and look forward to hearing about even more family birthday parties and get-togethers to come!
Until the next Bering’s BRIDAL Buzz!
Wedding fun,
Julie
Bering’s
Bride & Groom – Nicole Artieschoufsky & Taylor McCay
BFF – three simple letters that capture a very special relationship. Do you remember your childhood best friend? For many of us, a best friend has spent long days and nights giggling with us, exchanging notes in class, and dreaming of the day that we would find
our Mr. Right. Little did we know in childhood that Mr. Right is literally the ultimate BFF; he is a partner and best friend forever!
Nicole “Niki” and Taylor ran into one another a couple of times, and eventually a friendship was formed. …And talk about convenient- the two met because they lived in the same apartment complex! I’d say it is definitely meant to be. :) After a year in the “friend-zone”, and tons of Rocket’s games, Niki and Taylor began dating.
Over the next two years the pair grew closer and closer. Taylor said he knew she was the one all along, but really honed in on “forever” this past holiday season. The two spent Christmas with both of their families, and experienced true family fun! “We knew it was
time,” said Taylor- with Niki nodding in agreement.
A few months later, Taylor picked Niki up for dinner, but told her he left something on at his house- so he needed to run back by to turn it off. When they pulled up, Taylor “casually” suggested Niki should come in too. She walked in to perfectly placed tea light
candles displayed to read, “Will U Marry Me?” (I know, I know, does it get any better than this?!)
While still in a state of aww, Taylor kneeled down on one knee and asked Niki to marry him!! She said yes! Ladies, this is not a Hollywood story- it really did happen.
The soon to be Mr. & Mrs. will be married November 12th, at Pleasant Green United Methodist Church in Durham, North Carolina. The location holds a special place for them since it is where Taylor grew up. Adding to the excitement, Taylor’s grandfather is the priest marrying them!
When I asked the couple why they chose to register at Bering’s, Taylor had the perfect sound bite, “Bering’s covers all aspects of our lives.” If you are new to Bering’s this quote might seem a bit interesting. However, Bering’s truly does carry it all- from stationery, to lawn & garden, to hardware, to paint, to Baccarat and the list goes on!
Now that we’ve “met” the adorable couple, let’s take a peek at their amazing place setting and other fun items on their Bering’s registry!
The two started their wedding registry with Bering’s Bridal Specialists, Julia and Adams. The couple was drawn to the classic edginess of Juliska’s Berry & Thread place setting. You cannot go wrong with an amazing white place setting. The endless ways of mixing and matching it with colored placemats, accent plates and accoutrements are so much fun!
Barware: The couple selected some amazing barware by Saint Tropez and Reed & Barton.…I’ve already invited myself over to cheers with these spectacular pieces!
Housewares: Here are just a couple of their many great selections!
Nordic Ware Fleur De Lis Bundt Pan:
KitchenAid 5-Speed Ultra Power Hand Mixer:
The two also had fun selecting some grilling accessories!
(Niki, those gloves look a little too big for you!)
Once the two wrapped up their registry items, it was time to start picking out their napkins for the rehearsal dinner and WEDDING!!
Bering’s stationer, Mary, met with the couple to review their many options. Fun was had by all as they perused the range of choices.
And don’t you love their wedding album by Ivy Lane Designs?! …I wonder if this wedding blog will find its way into the album (not so subtle hint)… 
To view Niki & Taylor’s wedding registry online click on the link below.
http://www.berings.com/GiftRegistry/1509-1677674-wedding.aspx
Niki and Taylor are such a lovely couple! Julia, Adams, Mary and I had a great time with the two and look forward to hearing about the fun family gatherings, parties and get-togethers to come!
Until the next Bering’s BRIDAL Buzz!
Wedding fun,
Julie
Congratulations to Bering’s bride and groom Susan Chapelle Foster & Matthew Allen Collins. The two were married on November 13, 2010, and recently featured in an article by Weddings in Houston!
Bering’s Bride & Groom – Susan Kaplan & Hiram Davis
You might say “blind luck” brought bride and groom to be, Susan & Hiram together. The two were setup by friends, and agreed to a blind date. When planning the first date, their way of recognizing each other was settled when Hiram told Susan he would have a red hat. Sure enough, Susan walked in and saw a red hat on his table. While the two met at Starbuck’s, and most likely ordered caffeinated drinks, no extra boost was needed- these two were off and planning their second and third dates!
Before continuing with this blog post, it is important to note that this bridal feature is extra special to us at Bering’s because we happen to have the privilege of working with Susan. You might recognize her from Bering’s Westheimer, where she works as a stationer. …Naturally, I asked her to be featured in Bering’s Bridal Buzz Blog as soon as I heard the
exciting engagement news! …Luckily she and her fiancé agreed!
…They say love takes time, and this pair not only dated for six years, but spent two of those years in two different cities! Hiram moved from Houston to Austin about 4 years into the courtship. Hiram and Susan overcame the distance and made the 180 mile commute back and forth pretty regularly. The two plan on continuing to live in two different cities after
they are married… Who doesn’t love the beauty of Austin and the amazing entertainment options of Houston??!! …Talk about the best of both worlds!
Hearing about the couple’s engagement would make any girl swoon. It was Susan’s birthday and Hiram drove in from Austin to pick her up for dinner. When Susan opened the door, she was met by Hiram holding two dozen red roses. Hiram walked into the living room, kneeled down on one knee and asked Susan to marry him! Susan was completely surprised, and of course said yes! Who could refuse a man both so romantic and committed to making things work! Talk about making a girl feel special!
The soon to be Mr. & Mrs. will be married on September 24, 2011 at Lakeside Country Club. If you are not familiar with the venue, it is truly beautiful!
When I asked the couple why they chose to register at Bering’s, Hiram had such a clever reply! He said, “Bering’s is the ultimate destination for a gadget guy.” Susan’s reply was equally great, but somewhat predictable- after all, she does work at Bering’s!
Thankfully, the fun doesn’t end after the heart-stopping proposal. In fact, some might argue that the fun is just starting after the, “I DO!” Susan and Hiram have acquired many things over the years, but are certainly looking forward to finally building a home together! Who wouldn’t want to start off with the perfect place settings?! So let’s dish about the couple’s amazing Bering’s wedding registry.
The two started their wedding registry off with Bering’s Bridal Specialist, Barbara Cook. Barbara steered the couple toward options that complemented their individual tastes and lifestyle.
Serveware: The two selected some amazing serving pieces by Michael Aram and Interlude Home. …Invite the friends over just as an excuse to use these A-MA-ZING pieces!
Stemware Pattern: William Yeoward’s Fanny Amber Goblet
Flatware: The two selected a gorgeous 5 piece stainless set by Ricci Argentieri. Don’t you love the Spirale pattern?
Everyday Setting: Hiram and Susan plan on a daily treat with an amazing everyday setting! Spode made the cut!!
Susan and Hiram wrapped up their bridal registry, with a stop or two to look at Big Green Eggs and Yeti Coolers. Bering’s Lawn & Garden Specialist, Tim, happily helped the couple out with all of the grilling details the Big Green Egg offers. After all, the bride can’t be the only one having fun! Hiram was delighted to have his turn!
Once the two wrapped up their registry items, it was finally time to start picking out their official announcement to the world- the SAVE THE DATES AND WEDDING INVITATIONS!
Fellow Bering’s Stationer, Cheri, met with the couple to review their many stationery options. Fun was had by all as they perused the range of choices.
While in the Stationery Department, Susan showed Hiram their wedding album… Oh, the pictures to come!!
To view Susan & Hiram’s wedding registry online click on the link below.
http://www.berings.com/GiftRegistry/1427-2282750-wedding.aspx
Susan & Hiram are such a lovely couple! Barbara, Tim, Cheri and I had a great time with the two and look forward to hearing about the great parties and get-togethers to come!
Until the next Bering’s BRIDAL Buzz!
Wedding fun,
Julie
Today’s newly engaged couples are busier than ever with demanding jobs, social commitments, friends and family- and the list goes on! All of this adds up to a variety of factors and options to consider when creating your wedding registry. With so many options, knowing what you will actually use vs. what is fun to look at doesn’t have to be the case!
We recently hosted Lord Wedgwood and Jorge Perez for a two day event at Bering’s. The Saturday event was all about how to be a great hostess and entertain with style. This might seem a bit vague upon hearing what the event’s theme was; however, we think you will quickly understand when you see the amazing pictures we have listed below. Jorge Perez, who just happens to be the national spokesperson for Waterford & Wedgwood said it best with, “You should never register for something you can’t use at least three different ways.”
He then added, “Don’t lock your fine china and crystal in the crystal prison, just because your grandmother did.” He then explained how many options you have for each and every piece of crystal… Much more than one!
If you were unable to attend the event, then we hope you take a minute to look at the fun ways to use your serving ware! …Gone are the days of using a cake plate- just to serve cakes on. You can now turn it upside down and use it for chips and dip too!
The featured guests: Lord Wedgwood and Jorge Perez posed in front of a Rolls-Royce sitting on Wedgwood teacups! …Talk about some strong china!
Jorge started the event off with three tables to demonstrate how the pieces could be used for multiple uses. Don’t you love how he used a glass pitcher as a vase and the biscuit barrel to hold cotton balls?! …Why not?!! My favorite multi-use Waterford item displayed on this round table is the little glass tray. Would you believe it is actually a Waterford picture frame?! …So clever!
The table below is equally fun with even more multi-use options. Jorge chose to fill the ice bucket with peanuts, the champagne flute (girls they are not just for toasting at your wedding) to hold tasty little pirouettes, and a beautiful little double old fashion glass to serve as a vase!
Here is yet another alternative to use your pitcher! …Popcorn anyone?
If your beautiful stemware is collecting dust because you are waiting for that “special”
occasion- then pull them out! We love Jorge’s idea of turning them over and putting a candle on them. The Kelsey Iced Beverage Glass by Waterford looks so chic right or up-side down!
Fun was had by all as Bering’s customers came to see Jorge’s tips and tricks to help entertain with style. Bering’s customers Kimberly and Kelly left with several fun options, and I think it is safe to say Little Cameron was equally entertained!
Before we sign off, we cannot forget to thank our amazing event sponsors Michael’s Cookie Jar and Chocolate Pizazz! Not only were there offerings delicious, but over-the-top amazingly beautiful! We think you will agree- check some of their creations out:
Michael’s Cookie Jar wedding cake and Chocolate Pizazz’ little bride and groom covered Oreos were my personal favorites, but let’s just say it almost silly to pick two favorites- when it was all so pretty!
Don’t you love the little Wedgwood blue cookie on top?!
This chocolate display is so amazing to look at- you almost feel guilty eating it!
…These little cookie cakes make perfect wedding gifts for your guests!
…Sweet, salty and glittery?!… Yes, please!
For more information on Chocolate Pizazz click here: http://www.chocolatepizazz.com/shop/
For more information on Michael’s Cookie Jar click here: http://www.michaelscookiejar.com/Default.asp?id=1&cookiename
…And don’t forget Bering’s when deciding where to register: www.berings.com!
Until the next Bering’s Bridal Buzz…
Wedding fun!
Julie
