2010 Wedding Trends

With the New Year right around the corner, everyone is discussing their predictions on the biggest wedding trends for 2010. Here are the trends that I expect to see throughout the upcoming year.

Mismatched Bridesmaids Dresses

It can be very difficult to find the perfect bridesmaids dress that is going to please all of your bridesmaids. Let's face it, every one's body type is different and certain dresses just look better on certain people. Why not allow your bridesmaids to pick out which style (from a particular line and color) that suites their body the best. I personally think it looks great and will surely make your bridesmaids LOVE YOU! Take it a step further and mix and match different colors and patterns into your bridesmaids attire. It looks great in photos and will show how young and daring you are. (Photo Credit: Polka Dot Bride by SugarLove Weddings)

Internet involvement

Personal wedding websites are a great way to relay all of the essential information to your guests. From registry information, hotel, travel, updates, and more, your guests can stay informed with just a click of a button. Couples will also use websites such as weddingwire.com to create their guest lists, room layouts, seating charts and more.

Documenting the day

Although we are still in a "recession," I predict that the days of picking out the lowest priced photographer or videographer are LONG GONE. Today's bride and groom see the value in having amazing images that they can cherish for a lifetime. Unfortunately, there are no do-overs with this; you can't go back and relive your wedding day again if your pictures or video did not turn out as hoped they would. Instead of shopping around for the lowest prices, the 2010 couple will seek out the most talent photographer and videographer whose work fits their own personal style. (Photo Credit: Brewer Photography and Videography)

Added Activities

It is always great to add some sort of extra entertainment to your wedding day to guarantee that your guests will have the best time. Photo booths have been popular for a few years now, and will continue to be big throughout 2010 (everyone loves them). Slide shows are also a hit because it allows all of your guests to personally witness the evolution of your love and relationship. Comedians or Dance numbers are perfect performances to have during the dinner portion of your reception. Activities such as a fortune teller or a caricature artist would be a great addition to your cocktail hour.

Stationery

Matching stationery throughout your wedding ceremony and reception really shows your guests just how much thought you put into the details of your wedding. And believe me, they will notice! Your ceremony programs, favor tags, menu cards, place cards, table numbers, signage, napkins, etc. are all stationery items that can coordinate and add a whole new element of decor to your wedding. The 2010 bride and groom are going to use easy, inexpensive details like this to set their wedding apart. (Photo Credit: Salutations.com)

Green or Eco-Friendly

2010 will deliver many brides and groom who want to share their passion for the environment with all of their wedding guests. These couples will serve organic foods, will use biodegradable paper items, and will have recycle bins for bottles, cans, and any other containers. Plant or flower seeds are just one of the many Eco-friendly items that could be given out as favors.

Retro Weddings

Vintage weddings will remain quite popular throughout 2010 as well but will be joined by the fun/festive RETRO style wedding. In a retro-wedding, you will see many colorful patterns throughout the linens, attire, stationery and wedding cake. Other retro elements could include headbands, teased (big) hair, strands of beads, Polaroid cameras, tea-length dresses (with a little "poof" under the skirt), gloves, and a Volkswagen bug or van as the get-away car. (Photo Credit: Merriment Design)

Cutting-edge Colors

This is the big one that everyone wants to know about. In recent years, chocolate brown has definitely made it's mark; pairing with colors such as pink, baby blue, aqua or lavender. Well, waive bye-bye to brown and say "Hello" to it's replacement: Slate gray/pewter. If you have followed my blog from the VERY beginning, you will know just how thrilled I am for this trend. For 2010 I see gray/pewter paired with so many amazing colors such as pale pink, yellow, aqua, fuchsia, and many more. I also see purple continuing it's popularity.

The latest wedding day send-off

Although sparklers are still quite popular, there is a new product available for your grand exit or wedding day send-off. For years, sky lanterns have been used in Asian festivals, symbolizing your troubles floating away and being replaced with good luck and fortune in your future. The lanterns (made from biodegradable paper) are lit from the bottom using the same principle as hot air balloons to float away in the sky. Sky lanterns come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can even be personalized with your names, wedding date, or wedding colors. You can also have your guests write their own well wishes to the new Mr. and Mrs. directly on the lanterns. In this case, I would suggest having a few cameras on hand so that you can cherish some of the personal messages that your guests wrote to you. Sky Lanterns come with safety instructions, however, it may be wise to designate a few responsible adults who can assist your guests with the lantern send-off. Can't wait to try this one in person......

Another great wedding at The Atlantis

Olivier Events has just returned from coordinating another wedding at the Atlantis Resort in The Bahamas. It was such a great trip and I cannot wait to share the story and photos with all of you (stay tuned). Hope you all had a VERY Merry Christmas and hope your New Years is all that you want it to be and more!

Real Wedding Tampa, FL

I am thrilled to show you more photos from Wendee and Andrew's recent Fall wedding. I honestly could not have asked for a better couple to work with! Wendee and I have been friends for years and completely reconnected through the planning process. Everything in life really does happen for a reason because I am truly honored and grateful to call Wendee my "bride" and my friend.

Wendee and Andrew's wedding ceremony took place at Palma Ceia United Methodist Church in Tampa, FL and the reception followed at the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay. The entire day was absolutely flawless.....just as they deserved! Best wishes to Wendee and Andrew!!

Thank you so much to all of the amazing vendors:
Photographer: Tina Sargeant
Florist: Botanica
Cake: Chocolate Pi
Linens: Connie Duglin
DJ: DJ by CJ
Transportation: VIP Limousine
Chargers and Chiavari Chairs: Black Tie Rentals
Lighting: MMD Events

Holiday Hosting Ideas

One of the funnest parts of the holiday season is having friends and family over to eat, drink, and celebrate. Here are some Holiday hosting tips and ideas that will add a load of greatness to your gathering.

Serve food (party mixes, dinner rolls, mini-quiche bites, sandwiches, candy, etc.) in boxes wrapped like a beautiful present.

Don't feel obligated to use poinsettias!

Display yummy treats on fun/festive serving trays like this one.....

....Or this one.

Sew or purchase mini-stockings to place your silverware in.

Peppermint Ice Cream Bon Bons- Who wouldn't LOVE these?

Click Here for Recipe

Brides Florida Magazine & Brides.com 2009 Market Party

The Brides Florida/Brides.com event was a HUGE success! Over 400 local event professionals were treated to a night of networking, fun and PURE indulgence. From the moment the guests walked into T. Pepin's Hospitality Centre, they knew that it was going to be one spectacular party.

The event design and overall decor was beyond brilliant thanks to the fabulous designers as well as the top-notch event rentals that were provided. I personally loved the color scheme of pewter and plum and know I will be seeing a lot more of it. The custom-made ceiling accents were such a huge hit, as were the hundreds of floral arrangements that completely brought the room to life.

I can honestly say that the food and drinks absolutely blew my mind. Guests were welcomed with a Passion Champagne cocktail to kick off the celebration followed by several speciality drinks including a Yuzu Luxe Sour garnished with black sea salt and a Perfect Plum Martini that matched the room decor. Stations of Lobster Mac N Cheese, Maple and Bourbon Glazed Short-ribs, Shabu-Shabu, Pan-seared Black Grouper and Assorted flat-breads (not to mention the slew of passed hors d'oeuvres) filled the entire event space. The food definitely didn't stop there! Freeze 321, a nitrogen ice cream system provided the perfect scoop for both the chocolate hazelnut won ton and the black Forest lava cake. A separate dessert station of mouth-watering bite sized delectables were as beautiful as they were tasty.

At this event I finally got to experience TEXT LIVE, as mentioned in one of my previous blog posts. It was so much fun and allowed guests to really get involved in the event. Hands down, the show stopper of the evening was my personal surprise to the guests- BLACK VIOLIN. People are STILL talking about this performance and will be for quite some time. Be sure to check back for the video of the performance and other highlights from the event.

I cannot even begin to thank all of the fabulous vendors that made this event possible. It was an honor to work with each and every one of them!

The Dream Team:

Catering: Puff N Stuff

Venue: T Pepin's Hospitality Centre

Floral Design and Decor: Botanica Design Studio

Draping and Decor: conceptBAIT

Photography: K and K Photography

Lighting: Bay Stage Lighting

Furniture: AFR Event Furnishings
Stationary and Signage: Paper Presence

Entertainment & Text Live: Soundwave Productions

Bar sponsor: RSBP Events

Bar sponsor: Pepin Distributing

Bar sponsor: Mirassou Winery

Videography: Brewer Photography and Videography

Acrylic bars and accent pieces: MMD Events

Vinyl dancefloor covering with custom logo: Showorks

Nitrogen Ice Cream Bar: Freeze -321

Dessert Station: A Piece of Cake

Linens: Linens by the Sea

Dance floor: Hunters Green Golf & Country Club

Dance floor: Tampa Palms Country Club

Surprise performer: Black Violin
Planner and entertainment sponsor: Olivier Events

A VERY special thanks to the amazing photographers of K and K Photography for providing these breath-taking images!

Ashley and Rob get married

Ashley and Rob's wedding was one of my favorite weddings ever. There were so many details that made this Southern farm wedding absolutely stunning. I loved the yellow and grey color scheme that Ashley and Rob chose. Here is a little tease with MUCH more to share with you very soon.

Wendee and Andrew's Tampa, FL wedding

I know that I have been pretty bad about blogging my recent weddings and events. Oh if I could just add more hours to the day! Once again, Tina Sargeant delivered some amazing images from our most recent weddings. Here are a few sneak peeks from Wendee and Andrew's October wedding in Tampa, FL. What a beautiful couple! Can't wait to show you the rest. Stay tuned....

Becoming a Wedding Planner

I came across this article and could not post it quick enough. Now I know that great minds think alike, but it seriously felt like the person who wrote this was reading my mind. It showcases all of the "hoopla" that comes along with the territory of owning a wedding coordinating company. The content of this article feels like a reoccurring conversation that I find myself having with many of my wedding planner friends. And yes, I said friends, meaning that I speak to them on a daily or weekly basis. I almost take the bait when these aspiring planners email me to let me know how great my website is, and how my company stands out by a land-slide....only to find out that the same person has emailed every single one of my wedding planner friends (and probably dozens more) with the same template-of-an-email. Comical!

Sadly, I am sure at some point in my life I have written an email or two using the "DON'T" tactics listed below. I have, on the other hand, completed the "DO's" which have gotten me to where I am today. For all of my blog readers who are brides-to-be, there are many great points to address when scouting a potential wedding planner. The most important (in my opinion) are experience and reputation. For the aspiring planners who are reading this post, I salute you for completing step 1- research. Knowledge is key. And on a side note (you should probably read the article first) if you are going to have a mentor, make sure to find someone who is worth all of the time and hard work that I know you will put into this. Having a "bogus" mentor could actually put you back two steps. With that said, best wishes throughout your journey!

Becoming a Wedding Planner: by Saundra of Planning Forever

For some reason, I have been receiving a plethora of questions from aspiring wedding planners. This industry is hot, hot, hot right now with approximately 6-7 cable shows regarding weddings and all their glory. I can see how enticing this business looks.

Here’s an example of what I might get asked (in one week, no less).
How much are your packages? Can you send me your contract? How did you get started? Are you hiring? I want to start my own business, how did you? Which online course is best to take? How do you market yourself? Where do you find clients? Can I job shadow for free? How do you get found in search engines?

I love that more people want to do this business. We need more professional planners out there to help raise the bar and standards.

Notice I said, professional planner? A prof is someone who has experience in event planning. If you have planned your own wedding and your BFF’s, this does not make you an experienced professional event planner. Just like naming and designing a business card does not make it a business.

There is so much information on how to become a wedding planner that I am going to do a three part series from my perspective. Keeping it real and giving you some personal insight, and not selling you anything. So here goes.

1. GET EXPERIENCE. Your own wedding does not count. Or any friend’s wedding. If you cannot find a planner to work for, then search out the hospitality industry or another vendor in the industry. Hard work and real-life experience will beat out reading books or taking a course. I have noticed that many aspiring planners are unwilling to accept an unpaid internship or pay for job-shadowing experience. That is a route you may have to look into.

2. PLAN IT OUT. You need seed money to get started. BEFORE you search for clients. BEFORE you network with vendors; have a business strategy. You will need an attorney for contracts, your business plan developed, liability insurance, a business license, know your tax liabilities, and more! Be willing to shell out some bucks.

*Part Two*

Why is it so important to have real-event planning experience before you tackle other people’s weddings?

For one thing, working with other wedding vendors. The real truth is many vendors don’t welcome wedding planners into the picture with open arms. I find it is because of past experiences with the newbie-planners-with-business-cards that have zero to little experience; suddenly making important decisions on the wedding day and reception.

Caterers, DJ’s, and photographers that have been in the business for many years tend to have little patience with these newcomers as they tend to be more of nuisance, than a help. Can you blame them?

Not because the newbie-planner is not earnest. Not because they are mean. But because of their lack of experience and gusto to direct the entire day and other vendors. Isn’t that what a wedding planner does, after all? Hmph. Invariably mistakes are made and it causes others to do double work.

Trust me, if you don’t have all your wedding vendors behind you during an event,you are looking at a very frustrating, loooong and exhausting day. Vendors can figure out how long you have been in the business by talking to you for five minutes. They are sizing you up.
Always remember wedding planners do not create weddings. It is a combined effort of a team of wedding professionals that create weddings.

I have made some great alliances with well-respected vendors in this area; but make no bones about it; it took dozens of events and proving myself (and my company). Now they know if they see planning…forever events on the BEO; the vendors know things will be taken care of properly.

*Part Three*

I hope you understand why you need to have experience first before you plan a client’s wedding. We clearly outlined some of the pitfalls here when you are “learning” on someone else’s special day. So HOW do you get this experience?

It can be a vicious circle. It’s like trying to get credit extended to you but you don’t qualify because you have no credit history. Huh?

Obviously the best experience would be to work for a professional event planner. However, it’s not the only way; hospitality and catering would probably give you a more well rounded picture. But let’s focus back on working for us planners. There are some Do’s and Don’ts when approaching planners for potential jobs.

As always, I will get straight-to-the-point.

1. Do Not email us through our web inquiry form on our website. That area is strictly for potential clients. Imagine the disappointment to find people looking for work.

2. Do send an email requesting information if we are hiring.

3. Do Not tell us this has always been your dream job. As some planner’s will mimic; “It’s my dreeeeaaaaaaam to be a planner”. This raises a red flag. Can you imagine interviewing at a corporate job and telling the HR person it’s always been your dreeeeeam to be an accountant? I don’t think so. And get back to me if your dream is to be on your knees picking up a broken glass and mopping up spilled liquor on a dance floor at 1AM.

4. Do send us a resume with real job experience that is applicable to our industry. We get really excited to read that.

5. Do Not call us right away. A follow up phone call in a few weeks if we received your resume and email is fine. But email is almost always better. Please remember, you are one person out of dozens that contact us each month.

6. Do be open with starting at the bottom and working your way up. This may include internships or smaller part-time duties, easing you into the business. Businesses in general are looking more into internships; so don’t be surprised when that is an offer.

7. Do Not offer to partner with our company if you have no experience or established business in general. Yes this happens.

8. Do ask questions of other planners (go out of your immediate area if you aren’t getting a response). But ask the right questions. What are the pitfalls? What’s the worse part of your job? How hard was it for you to break into the business? You already have the iconic viewpoint of event planning, so at least do some research on the negatives so you can have a clear picture.

9. Do Not ask a professional event planner for copies of their time lines, checklists, budgets, contracts, packages, etc. And please do not copy their style of their website. There are 50 states out there, with most likely an event planner in each state with some online presence. If you want to do research; do so from another planner across the country. Not 40 minutes from you.

10. Do understand that we can’t hire everyone. This is a unique kind of business. Because of the creativity involved, it is treated more like a hobby instead of a professional business by many newcomers. There is a smaller market for our services, but we are gaining. Slowly.

*The Finale*

I know if you are dead set on this career path, I cannot scare you by telling you how much hard work it is. Glamorous moments are slim and the reality is that you are on your feet for 12-14 hours AND working weekends (more importantly Saturday evenings without your S.O. or hubby). You need a very understanding family. And you need to be willing to miss out on a lot of fun personal events.

Nope, I won’t touch upon those things because they are not pleasant to talk about.

What I WILL say that this is one of the most challenging and rewarding careers I’ve ever done (and I have a background in various sales and marketing areas). It’s new everyday and I have the ability to make an impact in someone’s family; helping to create positive memories that will last a life time. It’s so special and I (and my other coordinators) take this to heart. And that is what drives us every single weekend (even when our feet hurt terribly).

If you have that love, drive, passion and the business sense for this industry – then don’t let anyone squash your dreams. Just please be savvy about it.

Fabulous Finds Under Fifty

Here are some of my latest fabulous finds under fifty dollars. Hopefully my next fashion post will include boots, scarves and all of my other fall favorites. Now all we need is the weather to go along with it!

$49.50 Click Here

$32.86 Click Here

$24.00 Click Here

$6.80 Click Here

$49.00 Click Here

$39.99 Click Here

449.95 Click Here

Olivier Events teams with Brides Magazine & Brides.com

I am so excited to share my big news with you all! I have recently been asked to coordinate the Brides Magazine of Florida and Brides.com market party. "Each year, Brides Magazine of Florida and Brides.com partners with industry influentials and valued advertisers to host an award winning upscale cocktail party. These events allow thousands of key decision makers the opportunity to network with other local event professionals to form powerful business relationships that help nurture and grow their businesses." (Straight from their mouth-not mine). Although I have less than 5 weeks to pull everything together, I am absolutely pumped! Stay tuned for updates on this industry event that is sure to set some serious trends.

Sylvia Weinstock- The Queen of Cakes

Last week I truly had one of the most exciting days in quite some time. Sylvia Weinstock- the Queen of Cakes- attended our chapter's NACE (National Association of Catering Executives) event. I even got to sit directly next to her during lunch- but that's beside the point. (Smiley Face) The event was held at the Renaissance hotel at International Plaza in Tampa. The room was absolutely breathtaking thanks to the fabulous NACE executive board and the team of vendors that they put together for this event.

Sylvia Weinstock, (who is known for making wedding cakes for celebrity clients including Donald Trump, Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta Jones, Mariah Carey, and Jennifer Lopez, just to name a few) offered fascinating insight on her personal and professional life. We were even told the history behind her infamous trademark- those glasses. I could not believe how down-to-earth and hilarious she was. My absolute favorite thing that came out of her mouth was when someone asked how she deals with difficult/nervous brides. In her slight "New Yorker" accent she replied "I tell them to HAVE A DRINK;" then continued with "it's only five hours of your life." What fantastic advice!

Be sure to check out Sylvia's new book, Sensational Cakes. I promise that you will be very impressed. I would also like to acknowledge Mark Moberg for these incredible images. You can see more photos from this event by clicking here.

Become a follower

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Beautiful bride and bridesmaid bouquets

There are so many things to consider when picking out or designing your perfect bouquet. Whether it is a brides bouquet or a bridesmaid bouquet, the flowers should compliment the color of your dress. In my personal opinion, a bold red bouquet tends to clash with a stark white gown. If you have your mind set on carrying a red bouquet here are some things that I would suggest. First, soften the bouquet by adding small hints of complimenting colors such as apricot, mango, celadon, or deep yellow. If you have not already chosen your dress and you know that you want to carry red flowers, go with a dress that is a pearl or champagne shade.

A bridal bouquet should match the overall feel of your wedding. If your ceremony will take place on a beach, you may want to skip the jeweled adornments and opt for a casual look. If you are having a vintage inspired wedding- soft, romantic flowers are probably the route to take. A good florist will know all of the right questions to ask to make sure that your bouquet is perfect for you and your wedding. And since you are putting so much thought into these beautiful bouquets make sure to use them as additional decor throughout your reception space.

Here are some of my favorite bride and bridesmaid bouquets...

Fabulous Finds Under Fifty

I am so thrilled with all of the positive feedback that I have received from this. Definitely keep it coming! I am so confident that you are going to LOVE all of the beautiful items that I have come across within the past week or so. For the safety of your pocketbook....I have decided to spread them out a little. Be sure to check back in very soon to get another fashion fix. Enjoy!

$39.00 Click Here

$29.00 Click Here

$24.80 Click Here

$49.00 Click Here

$45.00 Click Here

$35.00 Click Here

$22.95 Click Here

$32.99 Click Here

South Seas Island Resort: A Perfect Place for your Destination Wedding

Over the summer, I was invited down to Captiva Island for a two day tour of South Seas Island Resort. I cannot even begin to tell you how impressed I was with EVERYTHING. First of all, the staff there is absolutely amazing. Each member of their "team" was so accommodating, passionate and just plain fun to be around. I, along with nearly a dozen other coordinators, was welcomed with snacks and sangria before hopping onto a trolley for the first portion of the South Seas Island Resort tour. It was clear that they knew the way to my heart when we were taken to the on-site candy shop for some afternoon sweets. YUMMM! The day also consisted of a pool-side party of live music, fajitas and specialty drinks, then ended with an evening dinner reception that was beyond delicious. I even saw a family of manatee hanging out near the marina- so awesome!

In my opinion, South Seas Island Resort is THE ideal venue for destination weddings of all sizes. The resort is home to the most unique and beautiful indoor & outdoor Ceremony and Reception locations that South Florida has to offer. It stretches across two miles of quiet spots, beautiful beaches, and private banquet facilities. Other amenities include boat and fishing excursions; bicycle rentals; a quaint pizza parlor; trolleys throughout the property; several large swimming pools; beautiful hotel rooms, villas and condominiums; tennis courts; and endless options to make your wedding (or vacation) an unforgettable experience. Check it out for yourself, I promise this venue will far exceed your expectations!

Raise the Cake- Custom Cake Stands

I came across this website recently and SOOO wished I had thought of this concept. Raise the Cake offers new, fresh, exciting wedding cake stands to make your cake look even better. You can design your own cake stand or choose one from Raise the Cake's Couture Line. From Glitzy & Glam or Fun & Funky to Sleek & Mod, there is definitely a cake stand for you. I personally think it would be such a blast to create one amazing masterpiece that meshes seamlessly with the wedding cake! This fantastic concept gives all of you brides and grooms the option of stepping outside the commonly used silver or gold cake stands. Awesome, right? Be sure to check out all of the great photos and design information at www.raisethecake.com.

Fabulous Finds Under Fifty $

Besides my love for weddings, there is one other thing that I feel pretty passionate about...fashion. Not so much of the "run-way stuff" but more-so of the "everyday stuff." Since people often ask me where I purchase certain outfits, I thought a great addition to my blog would be a bi-weekly post on my latest fabulous finds under fifty (dollars). I am a huge advocate on mixing inexpensive items with nice classic pieces. With the current economy, so many great designers are creating clothing and accessories for a fraction of the price. So there's no reason you can't look like a true fashionista- at least on certain occasions.

Be sure to leave me your feedback: Is this a good idea/not so good idea? If there are certain items you want me to "find." Or if I should just stick to what I know best- weddings. I look forward to seeing where this goes but for now.....

$28.99 Click Here

$46.08 Click Here

$32.00 Click Here

$29.80 Click here

$36.95 Click Here

Bridesmaid and Groomsmen Gift Ideas

Finding the perfect item to give your wedding party can be tough. A lot of people think that they have to give each bridemaid or groomsmen the same exact thing- which isn't the case at all. To me, a gift means more when it is something personal and "one-of-a-kind." It is also challenging to find something unique, that no one has received before. Instead of going that route, try sticking with things that are practical and will be worth spending your money on. Gifts like jewelry, bags, and purses are things that I have personally received as a bridemaids gift and have used over and over again. Don't wait until the end of your engagement to make these purchases, after the majority of your wedding budget is already spent. Take your time, shop around, and find a wonderful way of thanking your wedding party for being involved in such a significant day. Here are some fabulous bridesmaid and groomsmen gift ideas to get you started.

Bridesmaids Gifts: Personalized tanks and tees, Bridal make-up kit, pink tool box, towel and tote, cute clutches, Philisophy bridal party bath set, bridesmaids wish necklace and other fun jewelry, luggage tags, leather checkbook or passport covers, and a bridesmaid survival kit of all the necessary wedding day items they will need.

Groomsmen gifts: Cufflinks, golf items, steak brander of your favorite sports team, mugs, flasks and one of the coolest things I have seen in a while: a cooler/seat all-in-one (perfect for tailgates and other sporting events).

Your Very Own Wedding Website

Creating a wedding website is a great way to share information with your guests and keep them updated throughout your wedding planning process. A personalized wedding website is especially helpful for destination weddings since there are so many details to relay to your guests. Registry information, accomodations, photos, pre-wedding events, attendants, and a little story of how the two of you met, are some of the items you may wish to include. A wedding website allows your guests to feel involved and get excited about your big day. Best of all, there are many user-friendly websites out there that are very easy to create and use. Here are some great resources for you to check out: www.ewedding.com www.weddingwindow.com www.weddingtracker.com.

Congratulations Meghan and Jeremy!

I couldn't help but to share this one with you all, as it holds such a special place in my heart. Believe it or not, Meghan has been one of my very best friends since Kindergarden! I have also known Jeremy for many, many years. The moment I saw Meghan and Jeremy together, I knew it would only be a matter of time before I was helping them plan their Big Day. And what a big day it was! With a wedding party of 20 people (including myself) everything felt like one big party. You can see from the photos below what an awesome time everyone had while celebrating the union of these two amazing people.

The ceremony took place at Allen Kryger Park in Lakeland, FL and the reception was held at the Magnolia Building. The bright and funky colors and patterns fit Meghan to the "T." I was so proud of all of the wedding items that she hand-made, including the invitations, programs, favors, seating chart, table numbers and guest book. I loved the bridesmaid's sashes and the groomsmen's ties that were made from a fabric that Meg absolutely adored.

I would personally like to thank Tina Sargeant for the AMAZING photography that she provided for Meghan and Jeremy's wedding day. She did such a fantastic job- as always. I just can't say enough wonderful things about Tina. The brilliant Elegante Films captured the beautiful day on video. I cannot wait to see the masterpiece that they have created for Meghan and Jeremy- they are FABULOUS. A Premier Entertainment provided the perfectly pink uplighting (Thank you, Thank you, Thank you) and Olympia Catering provided the food and the truly professional service staff. We loved the ladies at Robyn Lynne where the bride's dress and the bridesmaid's dresses were purchased. Last but not least, I would like to thank my best friends Meghan and Jeremy for allowing me to be such a big part of their special day. I love you both so much and I could not be happier for the two of you. Best wishes!

Wedding Inspiration: Jewel Tones

I truly empathize with all brides out there when it comes to choosing your wedding colors. It's a HUGE decision! Seeing new ideas in magazines or on the Internet can easily change your mind or have you second guessing your color choices. The jewel tone color scheme is one that I absolutely love. Amethyst, Emerald, Ruby, and Amber are all so rich, elegant and beautiful. The options are entirely endless with these wedding colors. Really rock it out by adding jewel embellishments to all of your wedding details: invitations, programs, centerpieces, cake, table numbers, etc. etc. etc.!

Upcoming Tampa Bridal Show

Calling all brides and grooms! Don't miss the First Annual New Tampa Bridal Show on Sunday, September 20, 2009. This elite exhibit featuring some of Tampa's top wedding vendors will take place at Tampa Palms Golf and Country Club from 1-4pm. Photographers, Florists, Stationers, DJ's, Linens, Cakes, Decor, Rentals and much more! Check back soon for further details and be sure to stop by the Olivier Events booth to view the goods. Tickets can be purchased at http://www.tampa-palmscc.com/.

Latest Event Technology- Texting while Partying

A friend of mine recently returned from a national event where she participated in something that was right up my alley. It is the latest technology to hit the event industry. The system allows guests to send text messages to a designated telephone phone number which would then be projected onto a large screen at your event. The messages are moderated before being sent to the "screens." Best part is that no one knows who is texting what- unless you choose to identify yourself in your text. This concept is perfect for any type of event- even weddings! Guests can text:

Well wishes to the bride and groom or person of honor
Song requests to the DJ
Their mini "toast" for the evening
Questions to fellow party goers such as
"Who is the best dancer" or "Who is the cutest couple"
"Shout-outs" or "Thank yous"
Anything you can imagine!


This concept is being offered by several venues, DJ's and entertainment companies throughout major cities. The screen can be customized with colors or images of your choice. I can't wait to experience this for myself....how exciting!