Saturday, December 17, 2011

Celebrate Who You Are In Your Design

More and more we're witnessing clients incorporate their heritage and culture in their wedding decor.  From beautiful hand-painted tablewear to elegant and meaningful fabrics, brides are celebrating their roots.  We love when we're able to help them create this amazing experience. 

Take a look at the Rachelle Lace overlay that will bring life to our client's Indian inspired wedding.  This fabric will also be used to make the brides veil.  It all started with an image brought to us by our client along with a story that brought tears of inspiration to everyone in our office.  We were determined to match the  linen in the photo, and in the words of our client - Mission accomplished! 


The Rachelle Lace with a rust underlay.


The Rachelle Lace over a beautiful dark underlay.

Rachelle Lace overlay, ivory underlay.

Sunday, December 11, 2011

Table Runners, Oh the Possibilities

Beautiful table runners are what many well dressed table designs are adorning these days.  They’ve actually come a long way since their birth in the Middle Ages, created solely to protect tablecloths, which were highly revered, from messy Kings and courts.  Men!
Over the decades as we’ve all become more, what’s the word, couth (LOL) table runners have become more of a design accessory than a sanitary necessity.   While in some cases they’re still used to protect tables and to cover-up those not so attractive permanent damages; they are also serving as key elements to table décor.   Table runners can be as simple or elaborate as you can imagine, from traditional casual designs for home décor to elaborate designs with exotic handiwork for formal events.
When is a runner right for your event?
·         If your venue provides basic linens that you’d like to use, but are looking to enhance the design consider runners.  They’re easy on the budget and provide lots of flexibility.  
·         Custom table linens for event themes can be expensive.  Consider using a table runner to really bring home a seasonal, elaborate or cultural event theme. 
·         When budget is an issue.  Most venues provide at least a basic poly white table linen, add a runner and sash to your design to bring in color and character. 

This is such a neat design. Duplicate using
traditional black table linen with a Damask table runner.

If you love the Pintuck look, here's a great way to incorporate it using traditional white linens. 
This table includes a design table
runner and Pintuck sashes.

Simple, affordable and elegant. 
Traditional white table linen with two
Satin runners.

Another great idea:
White linen with eco-friendly burlap table runner.
A beautiful and cost effective alternative to
burlap table linens.









Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Be Inspired

The world of table/wedding linens have come a long way.  From the chic taffetas to the traditional matte satins, there really is something for everyone and every budget. 

Here's a little video that our Office Manager put together to show a few simple designs.  From Damask runners to elastic pintucks.  All doable, afforable and beautiful.  Many are also what we call "venue friendly".  Here's what we mean - if budget is an option, try to enhance your venue's table linens, as opposed to replacing them.  For example, if your venue provides white poly table linens, enhance the design with a cool speciality runner (i.e. Pintuck or Damask) and sash. 

Take a look and be inspired.




About Kennique Linens
At Kennique Linens we provide fine linen rentals for weddings, banquets and special events. This includes table linens, specialty wedding linens, table overlays, table runners, chair covers, napkins and sashes. Our table linens are made from some of the finest cotton, satin, organza and taffeta fabrics on the market, and our mission is to help our clients create a unique atmosphere that fits their style and budget.  We pride ourselves in providing exceptional customer service and a convenient inquiry and order process that saves our clients time and money when selecting table linens and other event linen décor. To learn more about Kennique Linens, visit www.kenniquelinens.com or call 832-499-7511.

Tuesday, November 15, 2011

A Dance To Remember

What has over 1.5 million You Tubes hits, made the front page of Yahoo.com news, a few entertainment skits and definitely qualifies as something that guest will talk about forEVER?  That would be a video titled "Best Father Daughter First Dance Melody Ever" on YouTube.  Missed it?

Watch Now

So, here's the thing, I don't know about you, but my dad probably wouldn't remember all those steps (although he'd try).  To be honest with you, I'm not sure I'd remember all that; however I think the moral of the story is that every aspect of your wedding should be a reflection of you and who you are.  It's about adding your personality and creating moments that you or your guest will never forget.  So, take an assessment now.  

Do your plans reflect your personality and who you are? 

Is there something in your reception that will cause people to say "OMG that is SO her?"  

If not, you've got a dance to choreograph!  Just kidding. LOL However, your mission over the next two to three weeks (or shorter if your wedding day is sooner) is to modify your plans (or at least a few plans) with YOU (your personality) in the center of them.  Believe it or not, that's the most personal gift that you can give your guests - an opportunity to share in something that really embodies who you are and what you love!

Be Inspired


About Kennique Linens
At Kennique Linens we provide fine linen rentals for weddings, banquets and special events. This includes table linens, specialty wedding linens, table overlays, table runners, chair covers, napkins and sashes. Our table linens are made from some of the finest cotton, satin, organza and taffeta fabrics on the market, and our mission is to help our clients create a unique atmosphere that fits their style and budget.  We pride ourselves in providing exceptional customer service and a convenient inquiry and order process that saves our clients time and money when selecting table linens and other event linen décor. To learn more about Kennique Linens, visit www.kenniquelinens.com or call 832-499-7511.

Sunday, October 23, 2011

Dinner Party Ideas That We Can All Adopt!

It’s probably no surprise that we love entertaining at Kennique.  Small group, large group, family, colleagues – matters not the occasion or the size as longs as we can decorate :)
So, when I stumbled upon these nuggets from the HGTV, A*K*A home of the décor gods, I had to blog and share.  Whether you’re planning a formal dinner party with business colleagues and associates or a nice quaint dinner with family and friends, here are four ideas for centerpieces that are both fun,  cost effective  and (most importantly) easy to adopt.  Be inspired, courtesy of HGTV and their contributing designers.    

Black Balloons (Kennique Fav)
Designer:  Wendy Hyde of The Shabby Nest. 
Craft paper was layered over a neutral tablecloth and topped with a black and white damask runner.   Balloons were tied to crystal weights to keep them in place, and votives were placed between the balloons.   And, my favorite embellishment, if you look closely you’ll see photographs tied to each balloon.  I can see anniversary images, graduation photos (if that’s the occasion), etc.  The possibilities are endless.  I love it!


Vibrant Fruits Anyone? Designer: Unknown
“This summer-inspired floral centerpiece sits nicely against crisp white table linen and a neutral backdrop. Depending on the height of the flower stalks, fill a tall, narrow hurricane halfway with water and add a few small oranges for a burst of color. Choose tall seasonal flowers for a vibrant contrast against the floating orange hues.”




Natural InstinctsDesigner: Alissa Ditta of 33 Shades of Green
“Craft a centerpiece using natural items found right in your backyard. To create the various elements of this centerpiece, Alissa filled glass hurricanes with candles, moss and twigs and surrounded them with twig balls and small votives for extra sparkle. Potted succulents provide an additional green element to the decor in contrast with the burlap table runner. ‘Decorating with succulent plants is easy and inexpensive, because they are low-maintenance and will be around long after your dinner party,’ she says.”

Conversation StarterDesigner: John Gidding
There’s nothing worse than talking to and or around your centerpiece at dinner parties.  “It's important that a dinner party centerpiece not block the view of the other side of the table. Something tall and slender can still provide a dramatic effect without interfering in the conversation. Add tall blooming branches to a slender vase and surround with pebbles, marbles or sand to keep the branches in place.”  The chocolate table runner and pink table napkins are also a beautiful compliment to the dark wood. 
For a complete look at all the ideas included in the source article, visit www.hgtv.com.  These were just our favs!


About Kennique Linens
At Kennique Linens we provide fine linen rentals for weddings, banquets and special events. This includes table linens, specialty wedding linens, table overlays, table runners, chair covers, napkins and sashes. Our table linens are made from some of the finest cotton, satin, organza and taffeta fabrics on the market, and our mission is to help our clients create a unique atmosphere that fits their style and budget.  We pride ourselves in providing exceptional customer service and a convenient inquiry and order process that saves our clients time and money when selecting table linens and other event linen décor. To learn more about Kennique Linens, visit www.kenniquelinens.com or call 832-499-7511

Thursday, October 6, 2011

Their Experience, Your Benefit

So we always say that foresight is much better than hindsight right? If you believe that you’re going to love this week’s blog post.  So here’s the deal, we polled a group of past brides and asked them the million dollar question.  What’s the one thing that YOU today would say to the pre-married YOU?  What words of wisdom would you impart?   Here’s what they had to say…enjoy and take heed.
1.      Don't sweat the small stuff. Nobody is going to remember if all the bridesmaids had the same nail polish or the same hair-dos. All eyes will be on the bride. Don't stress over wedding favors. People will not go gaga over them the way that you did.” Montgomery, AL 2002
 
2.       Relax and enjoy the moment. The big day will come and go in a flash.”  -Dallas, TX 2008

3.      “It is not necessary to be a Bridezilla. You can have your dream wedding without being nasty to your family and friends. Have it so that they are enjoying the ride with you and not wishing that it will hurry up and be over.”  Montgomery, AL 2002

4.      Remember that the wedding is just like the cover of a good book...it should be reflective of the contents, and everyone should want to read it...just make sure it's a good read..lol" Houston, TX 2007

5.      Don't worry about everyone having a good time or making everyone happy. This day is for the two of you & others will find joy in yours.”  Dallas, TX 2000

6.      ‎“Accept and love your spouse-to-be for who they ARE, not who you HOPE they will be.” -New York City, NY 2001

7.      “Realize that the wedding is only a day - Marriage is a lifetime. Seek marriage counseling. It is valuable and should not be taken lightly.” -Houston, TX 2010

8.      Always remember the commitment and honor you vowed to keep. Also, keep family and even close friends out of your marriage business!!” -Durham, NC 2004

9.      Don’t make the wedding bigger than the union between you and the one you love.” –Houston, TX 2009

10.  If you think the wedding planning was work, wait until the marriage.  Just always remember why you decided to become one and that alone will help you through the rough times because there will be rough times.”  –Houston, TX 2002

11.  If I could do it over I would spend less money on the wedding and more on the honeymoon!” –Houston, TX 2008
Next week we’re talking to past grooms and getting their perspective.  Now that will be interesting.  Don’t miss out. 

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

OMG, We Have to Pay for This!

Tips for Planning a Wedding on a Budget
So you’ve said “Yes,” hugged and cried with all your friends, selected your big day and then you realize something – Yikes – how are we going to pay for this?
Unless, you’re part of the “lucky sperm club” you realize pretty quickly the need for a plan and budget.  First things first, sit with your fiancé and set expectations.  How much can you REALLY afford and what are the “must haves” and top priorities?
Be realistic.  Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life; however it’s only the beginning.  With that in mind, think post wedding when it comes to setting your budget and do your best to stay AWAY from debt.  I hate to use the “D” and “S” words, but it’s a must.  Smart brides learn EARLY to practice discipline and self-control. 
Here are a few additional tips…
·         Paper please.  I’m a digital person myself, however I’ve found, and heard from others, that it’s better to use an actual notebook for your planning.  Add pockets for each budget category.  Below are a few examples of sections categorized to compliment how the bride’s budget will be divided.  You don’t want to get to granular, however to macro will make it difficult to cut or reallocate funds if needed.  
o   Wardrobe
o   Location (i.e. your venue research and selection)
o   Transportation
o   Reception décor (i.e. table linens, chair cover swatches and pricing)
o   Food (i.e. catering information)

·         Plan.  In all my years of schooling (18.5 years to be exact), the most effective and helpful class was an elective that I completed my second year in college – Project Management, what the professor defined as “the art of EFFECTIVELY managing many things with minimal time.”  I’d like to add for budget brides “…and minimal money.” Create a plan that includes a timeline for all key tasks and decisions that must be made.   Plan.

·         Embrace the formula.  The formula is simple, the more people you invite, the more it’s going to cost.  Really consider this when creating your guest list. 

·         Lay-away please. Consider vendors that will allow you to pay out your balance.  For example, if they require a 25% deposit, budget to pay a certain amount each month.  Don’t just consider this for the big stuff (i.e. your venue, cake, etc), adopt for things like your table linens and chair covers.   A few vendors, Kennique Linens included, allow clients to set-up reoccurring payments.  Take advantage of this.

·         Work your people and/or resources.  While this can be tricky because you don’t want to end up with a video full of nothing important or photographs that rival those taken by my 7 year old niece, if you do have access to a professional (or hobbyist) that you can use for photographer, videographer, creating invitations, etc. that will reduce your outlay.

·         No Saturday.  Most brides get hip to this one pretty quickly.  Everything is more expensive on Saturday (wedding or no wedding).  If it’s possible to select a different day, this could save you hundreds even THOUSANDS. 

·         Do your research, but don’t miss great deals.  As a vendor, I can’t tell you how many clients miss out on great deals and specials waiting for great deals and specials.  Allocate time for research and shopping and then after that time has expired, make a decision! 

·         No Procrastination.  Your wedding is not the time to practice procrastination.  Stick to your plan and avoid waiting to the last minute to place orders or purchase items.  It may cost you in the end (either money or what you want because it’s no longer available).
Budget doesn’t mean cheap looking.  It’s being smart about what’s in your control and allocating your money in a way that will maximize your hoped-for-outcome (there’s a SAT definition for you LOL).  Seriously, it is possible to have a beautiful and fabulous wedding on a tight and meager budget.  Brides do it all the time.  Just remember - Budget.  Plan.  Enjoy.

About Kennique Linens
At Kennique Linens we provide fine linen rentals for weddings, banquets and special events. This includes table linens, specialty wedding linens, table overlays, chair covers, napkins and sashes. Our table linens are made from some of the finest cotton, satin, organza and taffeta fabrics on the market, and our mission is to help our clients create a unique atmosphere that fits their style and budget.  We pride ourselves in providing exceptional customer service and a convenient inquiry and order process that saves our clients time and money when selecting table linens and other event linen décor. To learn more about Kennique Linens, visit http://www.kenniquelinens.com/ or call 832-499-7511.

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Kim K Embraces the Beautiful Black Rosette

Well I’m not sure if you can call it the wedding of the year, after all there was the Prince and Kate; however it was absolutely beautiful - starting with her bridal shower.  If there’s one thing you can’t deny Ms. Kim (or should I say Mrs. Humphries), it’s that the chick has style.  I’m so in love with her linen selection for her bridal shower, the Black Rosette.  Now, while this is not the most cost effective linen option (clearly), believe it or not it’s within your grasp.  And here’s the beautiful thing – you can even keep your first born LOL :)  
View our Linen Closet to request a quote.  If you’re not absolutely sold on it for all your tables, but would love to incorporate this bundle of fabulousness into your event design, consider using it for your cake, sweetheart table or even your gift table.  Be Inspired!

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Top 10 Honeymoons to Learn a New Skill

We'll they say that you never really stop learning, and that there's a lesson in everything and everywhere. Well, that appears to be true - even on your Honeymoon. Check out 10 Honeymoon destinations from Destination.  Begin your union and acquire a new hobby - together! Who said learning can't be fun LOL  Enjoy...

http://www.destinationweddingmag.com/gallery/top-10-honeymoons-to-learn-a-new-skill?cmpid=twitter


Friday, August 5, 2011

Wedding Themes, Oh Wedding Themes, How Do I Select the Perfect Wedding Theme...

So you’d like to adopt a theme for your wedding, however you’re not sure where to start.  Or, here’s another extreme, you’ve got a head full of ideas and are having a difficult time selecting one – because unless you’re going for the circus theme,  incorporating them all is out of the question.
Don’t panic!  There is a perfect theme out there for you.   A great place to start is with what you DO know.   You’ve undoubtedly secured at least one of these wedding elements: wedding color(s), wedding venues and/or your wedding date.  You can actually start here, let what you have confirmed lead the way!  Here are a few thoughts from a guest writer. 
Wedding Color
Wedding colors are a great jumping off point for choosing wedding themes. Going with popular images and themes associated with a certain color, your wedding theme will be easy-breezy to incorporate along with all other wedding elements. Different shades for just one color is more than enough. For example, there are many shades of blue. Dark blue is associated with navy; pair it with red and white, ropes and sailboats for a lovely navy-themed wedding. Royal blue is, well, royal; combined with silver it is perfect for an elegant, royal affair. Light blue evokes images of sunny skies and clear waters–ideal with a destination wedding.

Wedding Venue
Wedding venues with strong identifying points can inspire great wedding theme ideas. Holding your reception at a ranch is perfect for a romantic country wedding with DIY touches here and there. A museum hall is great for a quirky yet formal affair. A school yard or hall is just the place for a school-themed wedding (and is perfect for couple who met at a school, too).
Wedding Date
Be inspired with the season. Having spring, summer, fall or winter theme weddings is a classic choice. It makes the most of Mother Nature’s free backdrop. And everything is cheaper when it is in season–you just might be surprised at how much lower your flowers will cost when you choose flowers in season.

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

July's Kennique Fav

The Forest Taffeta Linen Collection

Avacado
This beautiful taffeta is absolutely stunning.  It's unique, elegant and really creates an atmosphere that will damand attention.  Makes a great overlay if your venue offers an underlay. 



Chocolate







Plum




White

Black


Gold

Ivory


Champagne


Friday, July 1, 2011

Selecting the Right Linens for Your Wedding/Event

Lamour Satin, Bridal Satin, Solid Taffeta, Crushed Taffeta, Pintuck, Mirror Organza, Sparkle Sheer Organza, Bombay Pattern, Ribbon Swirl…and the list goes on and on.
The table linens you choose for your special event or wedding can greatly enhance the look of your event space.  While selecting table linens can be over-whelming, it doesn’t have to be.  Start first by considering the following. What is your theme? What are your colors?   Are you a fan of designs and patterns?  Do you prefer shiny, sheer or a more matted (less shiny more natural) look?  What’s your budget?  If cost is a concern and your venue provides basic linens, consider going with an overlay as they are less costly and can provide an interesting contrast. Get napkins and maybe a chair tie to compliment the table linen. 
Also, when making your selection, consider your event space décor.  You want a table design that works with other aspects of the room such as the wall decorations and even the flooring. 
See Your Selection in Action
It’s really difficult to capture the true essence of a table design with a swatch.  Therefore, require that your linen rental company set-up a display at their office.  At Kennique, we also provide an opportunity for our clients to request a display at their actual event venue – which gives more of a complete picture of how it all will come together.  While this is not standard for all linen rental companies, you should be able to request it.
So embrace the variety, but don’t let it overwhelm you.  Rely on your linen rental company, and let them help you navigate throughout the beautiful world of fine linens. 
Happy Planning!

Saturday, June 18, 2011

Hold The Bridal Sheen Please

More and more brides are becoming anti-shiny, and even the more matte satins, such as Lamour, are not making the cut.   If that’s you, have no fear because Solid Taffeta is here.  This two-toned fabric embodies the formal elegance of traditional satin, but with a modern and more simplistic twist.  It’s by far one of our Kennique Favs because of its versatility, and (you'll love this) it’s one of the most cost effective specialty linens on the market*.   You’ve got to love variety.
Happy Planning!
*Prices of course vary by company.

Monday, June 13, 2011

There's an app for that...

We know firsthand that planning events can be as time consuming and vexing as they are rewarding and exciting.  However, no fear, a new wedding app is here. 
There are several out there, however today @TheKnot announced their new app on CNN.  Some of the features – schedule, share ideas, collaborate with others across the US, manage your budget, access resources and so much more.  Gotta love it - http://t.co/PXlPZh9

Thursday, June 9, 2011

The Knot Market Intelligence: Trends for Summer 2011, as seen at The Wedding Sal...

The Knot Market Intelligence: Trends for Summer 2011, as seen at The Wedding Sal...: "On April 27th, amidst the week of the Royal Wedding, The Wedding Salon brought brides' fantasy weddings to life at The Manhattan Center. Th..."

All About the LLC

"Ah that's so cute and it goes with my theme?  I'll work it in."  Okay, so let's be honest, how many times have you said that when planning an event and walking by yet another little "trinket" that would "go perfectly" with your theme?  It's a battle that even the best of us struggle with.  Here's the reality, there's definitely a place for the gifts, trinkets and cutesy table accents, however that's not the place to start and they will not have the greatest impact. 

So, it's simple.  When planning events remember it’s all about the LLC.  LOCATION.  LINENS.  CENTERPIECE.   These three elements will have the greatest impact.

LOCATION. Think about it… it's a lot easier to transform a nice location into something amazing then it is an "it will do" place that has no character or spunk.  It most cases, budgets have a great deal to do with where you have your event, however choose your location wisely.  It can actually save you a few bucks in the end. 
LINENS.  No event graduates to the ranks of “sheer fabulosity” without a deliberate focus on linens.  From your table linens to the dressings you select for your chairs – they are all key elements in the LLC equation.  The world of linens has changed drastically since the days of the traditional shiny Bridal Satin, so explore your options.  The biggest misconception is that specialty linens are very expensive.  With the right linen company, that’s not true, not true at all. 
CENTERPIECES.  I think this speaks for itself; it’s the “center” piece that brings it all together!  It gives depth to the room and brings the event décor to life.  Here’s the thing, work with a florist or planner that can help you select the best centerpiece for your space.  
Once you've covered the basics, then begin to layer. 

Events do not have to cost you an arm, leg and your first born ;)  Just use your funds wisely, start with the LLC and have fun.   
Happy Planning!