David Tutera

Bridal Guide Pin to Win Contest!

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Wed, 02 May 2012 19:33:00 +0000

I'm excited to share that I've teamed up with Bridal Guide to offer a dream wedding design by yours truly for one lucky bride-to-be in need of direction and inspiration!

For my currently engaged brides in the US, this is a special opportunity to see your vision defined, plus the winner will also receive fashion for the entire bridal party, a week-long honeymoon at a resort on the southern tip of Mexico and have their wedding featured in the pages of Bridal Guide Magazine!

To enter, go to www.pinterest.com/bridalguide (create a Pinterest account if you don't have one yet), and 'Follow' Bridal Guide. Then start pinning! Create a Pinterest board and pin up to 10 images from BridalGuide.com or the Bridal Guide Pinterest page that shows off the style you want for your wedding, including images that also tell a lot about who YOU are. Be sure to title your Pinterest board “Bridal Guide Dream Wedding Design Contest” and add an additional pin of the contest logo image. Oh, and I almost forgot, we want to see our adorable couples! Include another pin (for 12 total) of either a photo or video of you and your fiancé!

Submit your board by July 16th to be entered: www.bridalguide.com/sweepstakes/pin-to-win/how-to-enter

For all of the details, visit www.bridalguide.com/sweepstakes/pin-to-win! GOOD LUCK!!!

xoxo,
David

It's my birthday and I'll cry if I want to...

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 19:32:00 +0000

Which is exactly what I did when I saw my friends last night for my birthday because I missed them so much. Being in New York for a couple days to shoot for My Fair Wedding gave me a chance to put together a dinner with eighteen of my closest friends and of course, Ryan.

I love just stepping back and watching my friends as they talk and eat. Because everybody there is someone I've known for so long. One friend I've known for over twenty years; I did her daughter's wedding and we've been like the best of friends since. Everyone there was also there for my wedding in Vermont and my big birthday in Italy. They're the people who I feel like we pick right back up wherever we left off. I love living in LA, but I miss my friends in NY.

And tonight I'm going to see my mom and my dad for dinner, which also always makes me feel wonderful having that connected time.

My staff also threw me a little party in the office with gorgeous treats care of Enjou Chocolat!

And thank you for all of your birthday wishes, they mean a lot.

With love,

Filming of MFW has begun!

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 20:24:00 +0000

Everybody watch out and hold on to your veils because in this season of My Fair Wedding you're in for some surprises... I can't tell you too much, but I'll keep sharing tidbits along the way to the season premiere.

We're truly covering the show reality-style this time around and what I like to say is that it's the "unveiled" version of My Fair Wedding. They're pulling back the curtain--it's not just me meeting the bride and making a few changes creating a beautiful wedding. The reality is that every wedding has its drama and has its challenges, but what they also have is me to do the best I can to step in and fix it.

After twenty-five years of being in the business, I always say that I've seen it all--but after starting the new season of My Fair Wedding, I guess I haven't.

Should a bride DIY?

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 19:00:00 +0000

I always say that brides who plan their own weddings should have everything so prepared that the week before they aren't doing anything and instead sitting back and enjoying the excitement of the coming day of their wedding. So if a bride wants to DIY, she needs to embrace it and needs to be organzied--plan everything in advance so she's not scraping hot glue off of their nails the day before her wedding. But when they do, I love it when brides DIY because it's truly a cost-effective way to have a wedding that adds so much of their personality to it.

And with my line Down the Aisle in Style™, which you can find at Jo-Anns and AC Moore, brides can find something inexpensive that helps show off their personality. One cool thing is that you can even make a DIY wedding an opportunity to throw a crafting party, making it a fun activity to do with your bridesmaids while you enjoy a few cocktails, and you'll be proud of what you've done and what you've all made. It could be your invites, your candles, printed materials, your favors or even down to the accents on the flowers with dashes of bling. There's something to be said about doing it yourself that makes your wedding truly share that personal touch. Plus, when using my craft line, there are tips on the back of all the packaging, so I'm there for you every step of the way.

I'm all for crafting, making it special and doing it yourself... just not last minute, so you can relax and feel like a guest at your own wedding. So when you're getting ready to go down the aisle on a DIY budget--start with going down the crafting aisle first.

xoxo,

David

Subtle yet stylish hair accessories

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 01:34:00 +0000

A lot of brides don’t know what to do with their hair for their wedding. Do I wear it up, do I wear it down? Do I wear it pulled back? Do I wear it in ringlets? I hear it constantly. My advice is always to wear your hair in a way that is representative of you. You want to be recognizable to your groom and your guests—not to look like someone playing the role of a bride!

A hairpin (such as the ones in my Down the Aisle in Style™ line for Jo-Ann’s) can add a bit of personality without overpowering who you are. As for the style, I personally love when women wear their hair half-up, half-down. It shows that they’re not taking themselves too seriously and it’s a way to add a bit of playfulness to an otherwise sophisticated hairstyle.

Brides can also wear their hair fully up for the ceremony, and then switch to half up, half down for the party with the use of a gorgeous pin. Using a pin to glam up a half up, half down hairstyle is simple, stylish, not to mention inexpensive since you won’t need to hire a stylist!

The rule of thumb here is that accessorizing is crucial, and knowing how to accessorize is just as important. A beautiful pin does the job without taking away from YOU.

xo,
David

Blown away

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Sat, 24 Mar 2012 00:23:00 +0000

Brett Culp, a videographer for many of my brides' events (in fact, almost ALL of the videos on my website were done by him!), produced this video for his favorite artist, Sarah Groves' song "Miracle". I lOVE this video and hope you do too...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EOCQQQ7-GQI

LED Branches that light up centerpieces

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 17:08:00 +0000

It’s no surprise to anyone who knows me that I like drama! My plans and designs have to be big, fabulous and over-the-top. Of course, all that drama usually equals crazy, stupid, over-the-top budgets. That’s why it made so much sense for me to create my Down the Aisle in Style™ line at Jo-Ann’s because I wanted all of my brides to have the look and feel of a dramatic and chic wedding—without having to spend a fortune.

One popular item in my Down the Aisle in Style™ collection is my set of illuminated branches. These are stylish and so much fun! They are beautiful white branches with tips that light up with battery-operated LEDs. The branches can give dramatic height to your centerpieces and create that sparkle that so many of my brides crave.

The branches are perfect for a white winter wonderland wedding—just like the one I created for my Snow White bride last month on My Fair Wedding. But you certainly don’t need to have a winter wedding to use these branches! They work just as well for ceremony archways and columns or incorporated in an all-white floral wedding design.

So no matter your budget, you can have fabulous elements that add drama, style, and sophistication to your big day!

xoxo,
David

A cage veil for vintage flair

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Tue, 13 Mar 2012 16:35:00 +0000

I love hearing how so many of you were fans of my Mad Men bride this past Sunday. And I’m super shocked and super happy to find out that the birdcage veil is one of the top three items being sold from my wedding crafts line (Down the Aisle in Style™) at Jo-Anns! I included the cage veil in the collection because it’s an accessory strongly reminiscent of ’40s and ’50s style to add personality and vintage flair to your wedding fashion. I never thought it would be so popular! I’m thrilled that there are girls out there who want to step back in time as they step forward in style.

The cage veil is a fabulous accessory because it shows that the bride is fashion-forward, a little daring, and not afraid to go against the “safe” choice. The vintage style, with its delicate white netting that can be swept over the eyes, is a great substitute to the traditional long veil. But it is still a veil; therefore, I think it should be worn only for the ceremony and cocktails. At a wedding I recently attended, the bride wore a cage veil throughout the wedding. Because it is a smaller accessory, I can understand why she might have thought this was fine. However, personally and etiquette-wise, a veil should come off before you step into your party.

If you want to stay fashion-forward after the ceremony, you can switch out your cage veil for one a great brooch, hairpin or flower comb, which I’ve also included in my collection. A beautiful and unique hair accessory is another way you can sparkle head to toe!

xo,
David

"Hate" is a four letter word

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 04:20:00 +0000

Here’s something that my grandmother said to me when I was very young: “Never use the word ‘hate.’” She told me I should never say “I hate you” or “I hate this” or “I hate…” something. “Hate,” she explained, is a very strong, very negative, very damaging word to use.

My grandmother’s message has certainly stuck, and I’m really glad it has. I honestly can’t remember the last time I said I hated someone. But if I do utter the word, it’s always in response to something that is severely wrong or to an extremely uncomfortable situation.

On the topic of “bad” words, it also bothers me when people—especially kids—call people “stupid” or say something “sucks.” These words can be hurtful, and when they come out of your mouth you come across as being disrespectful. So why say them?

Xoxo,
David

Celebrate National Craft Month!

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Sat, 03 Mar 2012 03:50:00 +0000

I’m so excited that March is National Craft Month. As far as I’m concerned, every month should be about crafting and adding personality to your home—or wedding!

I think the success behind my Down the Aisle in Style™ line at Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores comes from brides realizing that with my crafting accessories they can add that extra sparkle and unique touch to their wedding.

When developing the line, I worked hard to find materials and supplies that were affordable yet looked and felt luxurious, and that would make your projects feel like they’re truly your own. After all, making my brides feel special is the cornerstone to my events and everything in my brand!

The real inspiration for Down the Aisle in Style™ came from finding that so many women I encountered were unable to find wedding accessories that made them feel good about themselves. They struggled to create the look, feel, and style that reflected their personalities and vision. I wanted my brides to be able to walk down the store aisle, discover their sense of style, and then easily incorporate these ideas into their wedding.

With my supplies, you can customize your printed materials and add adhesive sparkles or pearls to place cards, table numbers, candles, and more. One item that I’m especially excited about—as someone who’s worked in the floral business for 25 years—is my battery-operated tapered candle, which looks like the real deal!

My collection also includes dripping crystal embellishments, crystal pendants, beautifully patterned guest books, natural wood and fabric hand fans, rhinestone bouquet wraps, and an assortment of fashion accessories (including my birdcage veil, feather hair comb, and satin clutch).

No bride likes to feel like she can’t afford to have her heart’s desire at her wedding. But this way you can step into a store, find something that speaks to you, and know that it fits within your budget. You can actually have fun as you explore all of your options and settle on those accessories that will help make your wedding all the more memorable. At Jo-Ann’s, you can practice walking down the aisle... with confidence and in style.

xoxo,
David

Never say, "No"

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Tue, 28 Feb 2012 07:16:00 +0000

It’s funny how the things you learn as a kid stay with you. Second to ‘never saying goodbye’ as I mentioned before, I remember something else I learned from my dad growing up—and that’s to never say “No.” Dad always told me that if someone asks for your help or needs you to get a job done, then you should step up and do what’s needed. And if you don’t know how to do what’s asked of you, then learn it as quickly as you can!

Now in business or in my personal life, when people tell me “No,” I ask why and what I can do to change their answer to yes. This lesson has resulted in jobs I might not have gotten otherwise. Once a potential client told me “no” and chose someone else to do a particular job. I asked why the other person was chosen and she told me it was because they could do such-and-such. I instantly replied, “Well, I can do that!” And I got hired.

Never saying “no” also encourages people to give you another chance. You become someone they can depend on, which benefits everyone. About four months ago, I did a massive Indian wedding. Initially, my proposal was turned down, so I called the bride’s father and asked why he didn’t hire me. He explained why, so I adjusted the proposal, and then got the job. Persistence really does pay off.

xo,
David

What do I do to enjoy life?

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 00:34:00 +0000

A question people ask me all the time is what do I do to relax or have fun? For me, it's just having time off, period. For anyone who reads my blog or follows my travels on Twitter and Facebook, they know my time off is very limited, so I'm super excited that my family is coming to visit me in Los Angeles this week. That, to me, is what brings me joy: spending time with the people I really care about.

In my personal life, I like to keep things simple. With my mom, dad and brother coming to LA, of course I'll give them a taste of Hollywood showing them the sights, but most importantly, the time will be spent at home, going to dinner and then we're off to Las Vegas because my dad loves Vegas. I'm really really excited because downtime is the best time for me. That sort of just 'stopping and breathing' is few and far between for me, so this is going to be a great seven days of really enjoying my time with the people I care about.

Years ago, I was walking through the North Carolina property of one of my clients, and now friends, named Beth, and she had this magnificent rose garden. I was looking at all of the colors and feeling pleasantly overwhelmed when she asked me, "Have you ever stopped and smelled the roses, David?" I laughed, you know because it's such a cliché thing to say. But she said, "No, seriously, do you ever stop to smell the roses?" And every time she'd email me afterwards, she'd end with "Don't forget, stop and smell the roses." And I think even as cliché as it is, it's so appropriate for my life right now. You have to stop and smell the roses otherwise life will go right by and you haven't had a chance to enjoy it.

Always say "I Love You"

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 05:53:00 +0000

As we all know, Valentine’s Day is the day to say “I love you” to the people in your life who mean the most to you. Every year, my partner Ryan and I exchange cards and gifts on V-Day. I also send a valentine to both my mom and niece.

But what I hope everyone remembers is that Valentine’s Day shouldn’t be the ONLY day to say “I love you.” It shouldn’t be said once a year… once a month… or even once a week... It should be said every single day. I say “I love you” to Ryan, my mother and my niece every time I see or speak to them. It’s a simple phrase, yet too meaningful not to say aloud.

Another wonderful habit to get into is to kiss your significant other every day—if not more often. I have a sign in my bedroom that reads “Always Kiss Me Goodnight,” which is a nice complement to always saying “I love you.”

The chocolate and flowers are great, but Valentine’s Day is only the icing on the cake!

From David, With Love

No time for Goodbyes

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Sat, 04 Feb 2012 01:25:00 +0000

I have an amazing family. I really do. My parents and grandparents especially have taught me so much over the years that has helped me to become the person I am today. One of these important lessons came from my dad. I speak to him, like I do my mom, once or twice a day. And he always has this thing about never saying goodbye to me at the end of a conversation… ever! He doesn’t let people say goodbye to him. If you do it without thinking, he either won’t respond or he’ll say something else in return, like have a good day or good night. Saying goodbye is a big issue for him.

And because of him it’s become an issue for me too. I’ve found that when I go to parties or when I’m with my brides from My Fair Wedding, I don’t say goodbye. As a result, I’ve been told that sometimes I come off as aloof or rude when I leave events without notice. I remember one time I attended a surprise 40th birthday party for a friend I hadn’t seen in years, and at the end of the night I left quietly. Mind you, I’d spent five hours mingling at the party. I just didn’t say goodbye.

Like my dad, I find the word “goodbye” to be very final. It doesn’t leave a door open to reconnect like “I’ll see you in a day” or “I’ll see you in ten years.” I’d rather not have that final moment with someone that I very much want to hear from again. And those people include my brides from My Fair Wedding as well as my clients-turned-friends.

Not saying goodbye to someone means you look forward to the next time you’re going to see that person. And for me personally, it almost forces me to mentally make plans to meet again because I feel like I owe my friends that next moment because I didn’t say goodbye. This way of thinking is subconscious and… maybe a little odd… but it works for me.

xo,

David

I can't believe this note, wow

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:38:00 +0000

My breath is taken away by what she wrote, my "Swamp" bride Courtney on My Fair Wedding. It's pretty remarkable, and I wanted to share with others how special she is. This is why I continue to love what I do.

Hey David,

Here is a part of my book I have began. It is written "To My Love" as this is a diary I began when I was on my own....To you David-may you always be blessed for being such a blessing.

To My Love- My Frog Prince,

As a young girl I fell in love with frogs. Something about the four-legged creatures and their myth stole my heart. I eventually became obsessed. I found happiness and comfort in their eyes, color, and character. As an adult, I have found a meaning for my obsession. On March 23, 2010 a man came to visit me. His name was David Tutera. I knew very little of his character and creativity but soon learned his miracles. David is named one of the best wedding and event planners of our time, and I was a chosen bride. [From] the excitement in the voices of family and friends around me, I began to discover how wonderful this opportunity was. Although expectations were rising, I couldn't help but remain the me I lived with, the me I couldn't develop, the me I've been searching for.

A maroon van pulled into my driveway 3 weeks before my wedding. Packed inside were people, cameras, coolers, lights, and more. As the unloading began, I was greeted with smiles and questions. Nervously, I sent smiles and shaking responses in return. I had no idea what to expect. As they moved all the material needed into my home, they began re-arranging furniture and wall hangings. I took brief notice but left my concern to the arrival of this David guy. Some time had passed and the moment approached. I stood anxiously awaiting his knock. I opened the door and there he was. A handsome man, slightly taller than me with eyes that sparkled green. He had dark hair that stood firm with product to ensure every strand stay perfectly in place. David's smile could light all of earth and each planet. I quickly took both hands and greeted him with a kiss to both cheeks. I did not feel star struck, but I was definitly speechless and nervous was an understatement. As we made our way to the sofa, I realized I couldn't stop smiling. I was unsure why (certainly was not the wedding planning) but I smiled anyway. Wedding planning was a nightmare to me. The interest was never there before and remained uninteresting now. In my younger years I never dreamed of a wedding day, only the marriage. I had been so fickle with all of my choices for everything. I spent countless hours searching web pages, bridal magazines, and stores trying to figure out what would work best for my wedding day. As the pressure built, I placed the wedding details in the hands of others to prevent making decisions I had no interest in. A wedding day pre- David seemed a waste of time and money. It was a day to please those around me with expensive decor, top shelf booze, music and formal attire. Yes, I understand it is a celebration of love. As a guest of many weddings, rarely have I remembered the detail of the wedding, but [wondered] whether the bride and groom held the love they shared on that expensive day. People are spending thousands on a wedding to divorce days later. Clearly was a waste to me when I see real families starving. Children raising themselves and their friends because parents are struggling to keep a roof over their head and clothes on their backs. I did not and could not understand the concept behind a wedding day.

Anyway, I sat with David and told him of all the ideas I wanted for my wedding. I wanted an outdoor wooded oasis. Somehow it turned swamp by the introduction from family members that wrote the my fair wedding show to get David's help. Apparently, my ideas weren't enough for those involved. Either way, I truly want to say Thank You for the people who chose me, those that thought I deserved to have a dream and live it through. David has given me something to cherish for a lifetime. ME! For that, I will always be forever grateful to him and his team! David is my Frog Prince; when kissed, he made me a princess. David does not only create the most exquisite atmosphere for weddings and events. David gives women a sense of self. He creates beauty around the beautiful, brings confidence to those lost in everyday reality. Does he know how magical he really is?

After many changes to my original set of ideas, I couldn't wait to see the final outcome. My hotel room was full of people and cameras on my special day. Make-up artists and hair designers were at work, interviews were rolling, and cameras were gathered in my face. The only thing missing was the one who kissed the bride and tells her she's the most beautiful bride they've ever seen. I was missing my parents, my mom, my family; someone to comfort me was missing. As everyone applied their finishing touches, it was time to reveal myself. My chair was spun toward the mirror, and my heart stopped. "WoW" I thought! She looks like a model! That girl in the mirror is flawless, all grown-up, she's a woman. The most beautiful bride I had ever seen. I could only think how proud my mother would have been if she could have seen me on that day. As I fought back the tears of loneliness, I gathered my smile for the cameras and drifted into the role of a bride.

Making my way, blindly, from the limo to my room at the venue, the excitement and nervousness of a wedding set in. Although I felt gorgeous, something was still uneasy in my heart. It was time to show David just how beautiful he had chosen me to be. I slowly made my way down a few stairs that set me on a small platform leading to more stairs that separated me from David. I stopped briefly. The look in his eyes took my breathe away. It made me feel like I was the most beautiful in the World. I wore that feeling close to my heart from that day forward. David handed me the most beautiful, unique bouquet I had ever seen.

As I walked toward the aisle, David greeted me one last time. He kissed my cheek gently and whispered "this is your runway, enjoy every minute." I looked into David's eyes, smiled and began my walk. My veil was blowing roughly in the wind. I remember being yanked back when it wrapped around a tree in the aisle. I untangled it and finished what I had started.

After the ceremony and pictures, it was time for David to reveal his revision. Blindly, I entered the room. I could hear wind blowing ferociously around. I didn't know what to expect. David slowly counted to three and I opened my eyes. I began to cry. If I could take that room and place it my home, I would be the happiest girl in the world. David not only made my idea ABSOLUTELY breath-taking, he gave me something no one else can claim. David made me realize a sense of myself. Through his creativity and vision, he has taught me how to make decisions based on how I feel. I have learned to love myself and cherish all things given to me. I could never put a price on what this man has done. I truly cannot thank him enough. I am so blessed to have met such an amazing heart. I am encouraged to follow my heart and dreams. Dreams, they do come true, even when you think you never had one. David's love completely shines through. As for me, I'm still learning. I'm embracing the journey and cannot wait to see the miracles he brings in the future.

I just met a girl named Maria

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 03:12:00 +0000

I always say you can't judge a dress on the hanger, which is like you can't judge a book by its cover. And in this situation, I should have listened to myself because when I landed in Chicago last Friday--after a cancelled flight, being rerouted through St. Louis, and hours delayed, I finally landed hours and hours and hours late, I was exhausted and the car service that picked me up seemed a little sketchy. It was an old white sedan with a woman, the driver, standing in almost a big puddle on the street out by the snow. Honestly, I was a little reluctant to get in, but I was so tired and I just wanted to get as far from an airplane as possible.

The inside of the car was worse than the outside. It smelled like bad leftover takeout and had an oversized pink disco ball on the ceiling..... The driver turned to me and asked nicely, "Do you like my car?" and I said something along the lines of "Eh, it's OK," and long story short, she was like, "You don't like my car?" I quickly responded, "No, I like your car, I like your car. It's OK, it's OK." It was like midnight and I was so tired... But we got talking, she was asking questions, and she was just really really sweet. She's Greek and had lost all of her savings and everything in the financial downfall there, so she moved with her husband and her four-year-old son Nicholas here where she has family.

So we were just talking and she kept asking me if I liked coffee and of course I said I did, and she said she'd make me Greek coffee in the morning from her house when she would come pick me up. Also, when she found out what I did for a living although she didn't know who I was, when her husband called she said, "I have a Hollywood actor in the car!" which is obviously the wrong terminology for me... But she wound up being this, at first, stranger in the night, who was really this adorable, sweet person that I got a chance to speak with. And then when she came the next day, she was so excited to pick me up (with coffee as promised) and she told me all of her girlfriends were freaking out because she was driving 'David Tutera' around...

We ended up getting to Milwaukee two and a half hours early, thinking there would be more traffic with the weather, so we stopped for breakfast and went shopping at an outlet mall where I bought something for her son, and we had a GREAT time. After my speaking appearance, she had the car there waiting for me, and I guess she overheard me earlier ordering a Venti quad cappuccino, because in the car was one that she had went out and bought for me!

She just was the sweetest girl who was far more than just a driver for two days, she was actually like having a companion and keeping me in good company when I was with her. I tell this story because, I could have easily complained right away and got a new driver, or chose to keep my mouth shut and not spoken to her, but I'm glad I kept the wall down and let her in.

Patience equals power

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 04:26:00 +0000

While traveling abroad recently, I learned something about how people handle communication barriers. When you’re out of your comfort zone, it’s an incredible test of your patience. Visiting a foreign country and not being able to speak the local language can be quite frustrating, especially when you’re trying to get directions, make a purchase or decipher a menu. But when you react negatively to the locals in response to your frustration, you only make matters worse. Openly displaying impatience to the person you are trying to communicate with is just plain disrespectful.

I was disappointed to witness someone fly off the handle unnecessarily on several occasions during our travels. She lacked patience and lacked respect for those around her. Having patience—that is, stepping back and choosing to remain calm when you’re having trouble communicating—instantly earns you power and respect. I saw that firsthand. This kind of power lets you take control of any difficult situation and work toward making it better. Losing your cool does nothing but bring you the wrong kind of attention. It’s one of the worst ways of trying to get what you want.

Patience and power. Until now, I never realized just how much those two words make sense together.

xo,

David

One person CAN make a difference

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 20:10:00 +0000

This past weekend I attended a bridal expo in the Outer Banks, North Carolina, where I met the most remarkable young girl named Hayley. It was a highlight of a seven-week block of travel (which included flying on 16 different planes!). Hayley is a sweet girl with a beautiful heart. She started a charitable organization called Every-1 to help create jobs worldwide in a way that people in tough economic times can afford to give, one dollar at a time. Hayley’s message is simply that everyone can make a difference. And it’s so true! Every act of kindness, no matter how small, can really change the world. I truly believe that. Hayley, you are an inspiration—not only to me, but to everyone!

To help Hayley in her mission, visit her site: www.every-1.org.

I love my family

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 19:29:00 +0000

Last Sunday I attended a Christmas dinner hosted by my aunt Maria—who’s like a sister to me—and her amazing husband, Andre. This dinner was special for many reasons. First, Maria (or Ria, as I call her) and her family have endured a challenging year because of Andre’s ongoing battle with cancer. I am constantly amazed how they are able to get through each day with such dignity and grace. The way they are able to focus on being positive and celebrating the joys in life is remarkable and truly inspiring.

Sunday’s dinner was an especially beautiful celebration. Ria invited relatives who we often see at our family gatherings, family members we don’t see often enough, and then there were a few relatives who some of us hadn’t seen in decades—if at all. I felt the warmth and abundance of love as soon as I stepped inside the home. Ria has this thing she says that always makes me smile because I hear in her voice how much she means every word. She says “I love my little family.” And it’s so true. Family is everything. She literally brought our little family together by organizing such a wonderful dinner. The food was great, and the company was even better. It was a magical time. I couldn’t have asked for a better Christmas gift. Thank you, Ria. And happy holidays, everyone!

xoxoxo,

David

Is Customer Service a lost art?

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Sun, 20 Nov 2011 18:37:00 +0000

It never ceases to amaze me how customer service can range from good to... practically nonexistent. I love the experience of going to a store or restaurant and encountering a staff member who clearly loves her job. She greets the customer with a smile and exudes a passion for what she does. In turn, the customer feels good and eager to return the favor (perhaps by rewarding that person with a generous tip).

I think customer service is becoming a lost art because these days there are so many people doing jobs that they just don’t want to do. Personally, I can’t imagine being that unhappy with the work I do every day. Because then not only are you unhappy, but everyone you interact with can sense that and it puts a damper on their day too.

Customer service is exactly what those two words mean: serving the customer. And when you receive bad customer service you can’t help but be upset. I recently went to Best Buy and had a HORRIBLE experience. I was literally standing beneath a big sign that read “Customer Service” while having a disagreement with the store manager. I was explaining to her that a store representative had promised me something earlier (which my partner, Ryan, had heard as well), and then when I was going to take him up on the offer, he lied right to my face and said he hadn’t offered me the deal. The manager refused to help me in any way, and I kept reminding her that I was standing at the counter for “customer service.” In an almost comical way, I even pointed up at the sign as if she didn’t know—embarrassing Ryan in the process, who I could tell was thinking, “Oh my god, he’s pointing out the sign....” But it was just shocking to me that someone who is working in the customer service department could have no understanding of what customer service actually is.

All too often, when you go to Starbucks in a big city like New York, the cashier doesn’t look up, doesn’t smile, doesn’t ask you how you are, and doesn’t say “thank you.” However, when you go to the smaller parts of the country, the person behind the counter usually looks up and says right away, “Hi, how are you?” and then “Thank you for your order.” And this person seems to really mean it. This is what should be happening everywhere, all the time. Kindness and courtesy are extremely contagious. Good customer service results in good client relations, which creates a positive environment and keeps everybody happy. Really, it’s the simple things—like a genuine smile—that can make the biggest difference.

xo,
David

Mind your manners

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 20:04:00 +0000

Have you ever sat in a restaurant and been embarrassed for a dining companion who treated the wait staff poorly? You can learn a lot about someone—both good and bad—when you go out to eat with them. If he or she treats the waiter like hired help, it’s obvious to me that they have never been on that side of the fence.

I had gone on several business meetings with one associate who I thought was sweet… until I realized what kind of person she really was, based on how she behaved in a restaurant. When we went out for breakfast, she would literally scold the waiters. One day she asked the waiter to bring kosher salt for her omelet. The waiter brought table salt (which has smaller granules), and she said, “No, I told you I wanted kosher salt. Do you know what kosher salt is?” And so he brought another kind of salt, to which she scathed, “This is not kosher salt. Would you mind bringing me back to the kitchen so I can show you what kosher salt is?”

I was mortified just to be associated with her. I mean, really? It’s just salt... Eat the eggs without salt or use the salt you have... crazy! I actually leaned toward the waiter and mouthed “I’m sorry.” The next time we scheduled a breakfast meeting, all I wanted to do was call in advance and request kosher salt for our table because I couldn’t bear to watch another scene like that again.

I can certainly relate to the waiter because I worked service jobs when I was younger. I mowed lawns, delivered newspapers, and swept floors at a flower shop. When I was a room service waiter, I remember being barked at for any little thing. If I was a second late, the guests had a fit.

Pay attention to people when you go to restaurants—whether it’s a diner or five-star restaurant. Watch how they treat a waiter… it says everything. And by the way, if you’re the one being nasty to your waiter, I’d be a bit worried about my food if I were you! If you’ve seen Waiting..., you know exactly what I’m talking about.

It’s just like that old saying… you catch more flies with honey than with vinegar. A smile, a hello, a please and thank you are such easy things to do and say… and they get you so much in return.

xoxo,
David

Halloween is fun for kids and adults

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 00:26:00 +0000

Halloween is one of those holidays, which for me is more of a season than a holiday, when adults can be kids and kids can be adults. It’s pure fun, so embrace it! I think sometimes people get too stressed out about it all. Maybe they don’t want to put on a costume because they think it might not be over the top enough or they don’t want to have a Halloween party because they think it might not be as fabulous as they want. Don’t overthink it!

In my household, celebrating Halloween was a big deal for my mom. She and my dad always set up a haunted house in our front lawn, complete with a real casket! So I see Halloween as a time to be silly and let go of all the stressors that are around you on a daily basis. Crafting is a great thing to do during Halloween. You can have fun making wonderful little things for both kids and adults—whether it’s cupcakes or cookies decorated with gummy worms and other creepy crawlies, or creating a chic Halloween party with inexpensive candles and fabrics, like the one I did last week on CBS’s The Talk. I had a blast creating a mad scientist's lab for the kids and a sparkly spider soiree for an adult party.

Whether you dress up and go trick or treating, go to a party, host a party, or all of the above, the point is to just go out and have a great time!

To my fans of ALL ages

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Wed, 26 Oct 2011 22:50:00 +0000

Next to meeting so many incredible brides and being able to make their wedding dreams come true, what I love MOST about My Fair Wedding is how it brings families together—that is, the families who gather around the living room to watch the show faithfully each week. It makes me so happy to know that multiple generations—grandparents along with their children and their grandkids... and maybe even their great grandkids—have something to look forward to on Sundays. I love meeting these viewers and hearing their stories about how the show has given them another chance to bond and laugh with their families. In our crazy-busy lives, we could all use some more of that!

One of my most wonderful and devoted fans is 82-year-old Dorothy, whom I had the pleasure of meeting recently. She is a huge follower of the show and especially enjoys watching it with her loved ones. I could probably have spent hours listening to Dorothy’s funny anecdotes and her takes on some of the more crazy ideas my brides had in mind for their wedding. The show makes her smile, and getting to know her made me smile—which is so important because feeling the joy is what it’s all about!

Dorothy, I adore you! Thank you for sharing your happiness and for touching my heart.

xoxo,
David

When kids can’t be kids...

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 19:01:00 +0000

It absolutely breaks my heart to hear about each new teenager to take his life after being incessantly bullied by his classmates... and for what... just being gay. While it’s reassuring to see that a few states are taking a stand against bullying by enacting laws such as New Jersey’s Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights Act and California’s Seth’s Law, but I think we also need to stop putting so much media attention on these suicides. I worry that all of this constant coverage is giving other teens who suffer from bullying the idea that taking their own lives is a way out. These kids need to understand that killing yourself is NOT an option. Bullying needs to stop, but suicides need to stop more.

I know how hard it can be for these kids because I was also bullied in school... but I was strong enough to get through it and I trusted it would get better. I can’t stress enough that having an outlet and someone you can share your struggles with is one of the most important things you can do to overcome something like this.

Several years ago, I was asked to return to my high school and give a commencement speech. I admitted to the students that I had dealt with difficulties in school—I didn’t say “bullying,” but in hindsight, I wish I did... I explained that ultimately whether you end up first in your class or 300th, graduating from high school wipes the slate clean. From then on, you can make your own decisions and choose to live however you’d like. It’s a fresh start.

For help with bullying, go to pacer.org. LGBT teens (or those questioning their sexuality) can visit thetrevorproject.org or call 1-866-4-U-TREVOR (1-866-488-7386).

xoxo,
David

Change for the better

noreply@blogger.com (David) — Tue, 11 Oct 2011 04:28:00 +0000

We all get comfortable in our day-to-day lives. Some people are so set in their ways that they would never consider changing their hair color... or hairstyle for that matter! Many of us avoid change because we don’t know what it will bring or how it will affect us. But the fact is, change happens, even when we’re satisfied with the status quo. I personally came face to face with this recently when we had some staff changes at my company (employees left, new people were hired). When change comes suddenly and takes you by surprise, you often react by insisting you were in a happy place… that things were fine just the way they were. But then soon after the scene shifts, you realize the change has actually resulted in something better. Change provides a new outlook, a new vision, new direction.

For me, the change turned out to be beyond all expectations. My new employees are simply fantastic and I am so grateful to have them on my team. The experience reminded me to embrace change. And you should too—whether it’s changing jobs, changing your diet, or changing your relationships... it might seem scary or overwhelming at first, but trust that it happened for a good reason. Once you embrace the change and open yourself up to the possibilities, you’ll find that there’s always something bigger and better right around the corner.