The Forecast calls for a Shower!

As my wedding day approaches, the love and support of my closest family and friends is so evident.  Not only do they "check-in" to see how the planning is going, but now I am faced with a fabulous question...

"What kind of shower do you want?"

Among the bridal showers and teas, stock the bar, and a lingerie shower thrown in for fun, I began to think outside the box.  Then I was hit with an idea...

The wedding planning process is wonderful, you have showers, plan parties and register for all the things you need to begin your new life.  But what happens after you get back from your honeymoon?

This is why I propose a new kind of shower.  

A Date Night Shower!

Think about it, how many times in the last year have you and your beau been treated out to dinner and a movie?  When is the last time you were able to just... date?  The first year of marriage, I have heard, is the hardest, so why not lessen the stress with a stash of date nights just waiting for you to take them?

How it works

Let a friend be in charge of picking out some fabulous invitations... (like the ones from Ashleigh's Fine Paper) and word them to inform your guests that it is all about treating the newlyweds to a night on the town, on you! 

Have your host/hostess include activities you and your fiance love to do on the invitation for inspiration.  For added points, make it local.  These are some of my favs:

Dinner & A Movie 

6th and Vine in Winston Salem has Dinner & A Movie every Wednesday on their patio.  Plus their wine selection is fabulous!

Dance Lessons

Put your dancing shoes on!  Fred Astaire Studios in Greensboro offers 5 lessons for $50.  You can learn Salsa, Swing and Ballroom, how cool is that?

Horseback Riding at Tanglewood

At Tanglewood Park in Clemmons, for $20/hour you can take guided trail along the Yadkin River.

Bed & Breakfast

Everyone needs a get away sometimes.  Oak Ridge Bed & Breakfast is a local spot that feels a million miles away.  Check in to the cozy Lillian Jackson room to relax and escape for a night.

Play Ball!

If you have driven through Winston on I-40 you have seen the amazing new facility for The Dash, Winston Salem's new baseball team.  Treat your honeymooners to hot dogs and home runs with some tickets to a home game.  How fun!

The list goes on...

Pottery/Art Class,  Local Concert,  Day at a Waterpark,  Putt Putt & Icecream,  Couples Massage or Spa, Winery Tour & Tasting

Whatever it is you and your honey love to do, a Date Night Shower is the perfect way to ensure you will stay active and stay connected through your first year of marriage.  

Bun in the Oven?

Don't think that the Date Night Shower is just for newlyweds, this is a perfect Baby Shower idea.  Soon-to-be Moms and Dads need a date night, too!  Keep the activities the same, or change it up to include a babysitting service or house cleaner. 

So what are your ideas for a Date Night in the Triad?

-Christina

Wonderful Week for Local Brides!

Last week wrapped up with an amazing set of local vendors that I am so excited to tell you about. I am going to start tonight with my very first venue.

The Secret Tearoom

What a cute place! I was walking with my beau on State Street, after meeting with the fabulous Andrea Halsey (more to come about her later...) and the cutest lunch spot caught my eye. I immediately thought, this would be the best place for a bridal shower or tea!

My experience of The Secret Tearoom began with a shirmp blt sandwich served with fresh fruit, delicous pasta salad, and double-brewed berry tea.  While enjoying my lunch I couldn't help but notice the soft Frank Sinatra over the speakers and the bubble of the small waterfountain in the middle of the restaurant.  It was the most beautiful, relaxing setting. 

Honestly, it made me feel like a bride just sitting there, sipping my tea.

I am learning an important balance between being a "modern" bride vs. being a sweet, southern lady.  If you want to get in touch with that Southern Lady side... this is the place to go.

That is why I am recommending The Secret Tearoom as a beautiful place to have your bridal shower, tea or bridesmaid's luncheon.  At around $13.00 per person, you can customize your event menu and enjoy wonderful teas with your girls.  Just make sure to book your party atleast 6 weeks in advance. 

For more information on The Secret Tearoom, visit their website http://www.thesecrettearoom.com/ or better yet, visit them on State Street!  The Secret Tearoom is open for lunch Monday thru Saturday from 11:00-3:00p.m.  It is located at 412 State Street in Greensboro.