Atlanta Cupcake Wars

Well, well, well...isn't this interesting. Word on the streets is the cupcake wars will escalate as Washington DC based Georgetown Cupcake (strawberry is divine), New York based Crumbs Bake shop (birthday cake - yummy) and Beverly Hills based Sprinkles (banana my favorite) move to the ATL. Along with the newbies on the block there are plenty of veteran brick and mortar shops - Cami Cakes, Gigi's Cupcake, Atlanta Cupcake Factory.

Everyone knows that I LOVE cupcakes so bring on the competition. That lemon yellow cupcake didn't last too long on my studio table. But, please feel free to stop by my studio and drop off cupcakes any day!

Photo: Shawna Herring

Pink and Grey Cabo Wedding

If I had to get married again - Cabo would be my idea destination. The aqua blue waters and Spanish architect transports you back to old world beauty. The couple combined a pink and grey color combo, which is very easy to pull off without being too girly. Chris + Lynn Photographers captured so great images right down to the rosary in the bride's bouquet to the groom's pocket handkerchief.

Ivory Bridal Atlanta

If you're looking for wedding gown, bridesmaid dress or a tuxedo for your wedding party make sure you call bridal stylist Mesita at Ivory Bridal for your one-on-one private consultation. Stepping into her beautiful boutique makes you want to try on a gown even if you aren't getting married. Check out Ivory Bridal's website for more details.

TLC Something Borrowed, Something New

Every week there is a new show, well TLC has come up with yet another wedding show - Something Borrowed, Something New is pitched as Family vs Fashion. I definitely have to check it out!

Hosts Kelly Nishimoto and Sam Saboura 

It's every bride's worst nightmare. She gets engaged, and her proud mother pulls a yellowed, high-necked, bell-sleeved, '70s polyester dress from the attic. "I'd be so honored if you'd wear my wedding gown," she begs.

What's a girl to do?!

In Something Borrowed, Something New, brides plead their cases to designer Kelly Nishimoto and stylist Sam Saboura. Kelly reworks the gown -- whether it belonged to mom, grandma or even the bride's best friend -- into a garment that accurately reflects her client's shape, personality, venue and wedding theme. While she's hard at work, Sam consults with the bride at a salon and helps her find the new, contemporary gown of her dreams.

When Kelly reveals the updated gown, the bride must choose between something borrowed and something new. It's a highly emotional, high-fashion choice that is anything but easy.

Watch the sneak peek below!

Something Borrowed, Something New premieres Friday, February 8 10|9c

Fruit Infused Water

Here are few recipes to incorporate at your next event via my favorite website. Don't be afraid to become your own mixologist. Not all guest want to indulge in libations so offer other refreshing options to quench their thirst. Drink up!

Cherry Limeade

1 key lime sliced thinly

6 pitted cherries cut in half

1 spring of mint

Ice and water

Let steep 30 minutes

Cucumber and Mint

6 cups chilled still spring or mineral water

12 thin slices cucumber

4 thin slices lemon

4 springs (each 2 inches long) fresh mint, slightly crushed

2 springs (each 2 inches long) fresh rosemary, slightly crushed

The Little Red Book Series - Valentine's Day Bride

This is for the woman that loves with all her heart and enjoys everything romantic. She would have cupid himself walking her down the aisle. The chic sophisticated Valentine's Bride wouldn't have cliche hearts and arrows. However, her loving and romantic spirit portrays everything Valentine's Day. If this sounds like you, perhaps you are a Valentine's Day Bride. If so, think of ways to add in shades of pinks and reds without overwhelming your guests. Your shoes, bridesmaid's dresses, floral arrangements, decor elements, stationery and cake are all unique ways to add a pop of color on your wedding day. Valentine Love, Amber M

Eyelash Extensions

Eyelash extensions are a fast growing market for those who find that mascara just isn't enough. The price is not for the faint of heart ($200 - $600). A lot of people compare them to hair extensions, which isn't too far off the mark. Approximately 30-80 individual lashes are added to each eye and the entire process typically last 1-2 hours. Word of caution, if you have allergies please let your lash stylish know in advance so the correct glue can be used. The outcome is stunning and the lashes last for weeks!

Emergency Kits - Minimergency

I've received a few of these Minimergency emergency kits in various swag bags over the years. Recently, I received another one and I have to tell you it is the best kit on the market! The kit is compact and they are available in Glitter, Good Luck, Monogram and kits for Girls & Moms.

There are so many options for any occasions. Sample of products include 17 must haves: hairspray, clear nail polish, nail polish remover, emery board, lip balm, earring backs, clear elastics, mending kit, safety pin, double-side tape, stain remover, deodorant towelette, pain reliever, tampon, breath freshener, dental floss, adhesive bandage. Great gifts for the bridesmaids.

Featured The Knot - Spring/Summer 2013

So excited to be featured in "Wedding Planners Dish" section of The Knot Georgia magazine sharing planning tips and gorgeous photo from a past wedding.  Also, check out my couple Nichole and David who are also featured in this issue.

Photos by Shawna Herring Photography - Florals by The Savage Garden -

Cake by Mark Lotti Classic Cheesecakes & Cakes

Emily Riggs Bridal

Wow, feast your eyes on these beautiful bridal accessories by Emily Riggs bridal. Oh la la! These handmade couture wedding garters, veils, headpieces, bridal caps, belts, jewelry, bouquet wraps are made in Portland, Oregon. Simply Stunning!

Reflections - Looking Forward 2013

I have to say that 2012 was a year of rebirth, rebuilding and restructuring my business. The road was tough but, they say never look back because your future is ahead of you. Jennifer Hudson sang I Got This, "I got this, every single breath another step on my road". Yes, back on the road to success...I Got This!

My to-do list for 2013 includes teaching/mentoring, networking, attending Engage 2013, New York Bridal Week, Love Mexico, completing my portfolio to become a Master Bridal Consultant, speaking at the Association of Bridal Consultants/Business of Brides 2013 Conference, Black Bride 2013 Bridal Show, continuing as Association of Bridal Consultants Georgia State Coordinator and of course blogging, tweeting and creating fabulous weddings and events.

My favorite pix 2012 - Me and my bride

Recap of 2012 Press:

Glamour - The DOs and DON'Ts of Choosing Your Wedding Dress

Tips for Dealing with Guest Seating Chart - BBJ Linens

Cost of Living out Life's Grand Events - Fox Business News

The DOs and DON'Ts of Choosing Your Wedding Dress - MSN Living
Don't let the wedding cake take a huge slice out of your budget - The Minted

6 Tips for Dealing With an Overbearing Mom - The Plunge Project

Give a Great Wedding Gift Without Going Broke - Hello Wallet

The Office Stylist - Gail's Stylish Office

Feature Wedding Vendor..Wedding Expert - Wedding Industry Experts

eHow - Gail Johnson Video Series: Bridal Veils & Accessories

eHow - Gail Johnson Video Series: Budget Weddings Plans

Best Wedding Planner, Decatur, GA – Wedding Industry Experts 2012

Brides 15 tips to surviving a Bridal Show – Article by Lisa Smith - Article Contributor: Gail Johnson 

Gail Johnson Featured Planner on Event Planner

Nikki Robinson of Nikki's Event Planning interviews Atlanta wedding planner Gail Johnson

Black Love Forum Biz Feature: Gail Johnson Weddings & Events

Oh Brides – Merci and Matt
Halloween Parties Inspired by Book/TV Show 666 Park Avenue - Alloy Entertainment

Ever Hear of A Groom’s Valet? Deposit a Gift

Cost of Getting Married - Bank Rate

2012/2013 Wedding Industry Experts, Wedding Planners & Designers Panel Member

I love a fabulous wedding!

Photos by Inga Finch Photography