Miami Beach

Last week we had a great trip to Miami. Next year we have a few weddings down there and we were able to accomplish a lot planning wise. We stayed at the Eden Roc and as always their hospitality was amazing!

We had a chance to visit The Marriott in Harbor Beach with one of our brides and the hotel is gorgeous. It is one of the only locations in the Miami area that has a great ceremony space with an amazing beach backdrop. They also have a multitude of ballrooms which can hold from the smallest to the biggest events. We are so happy to be working with them and cant wait for the wedding we are doing there in March.

We also got to meet some great new vendors, which we cant wait to build relationships with. If you are planning your wedding in the Miami area make sure to check out:

Maloman, Photography
Xquisite, Decor
Blooming Affairs, Decor
Occassions by Shangri-La, Decor
Gloria Pelo, Hair and Makeup
Sheenon, Hair and Makeup
Amy Palma, Hair and Makeup
Alexis Renny, Makeup
Frost, Lighting

Shorter Centerpieces

When it comes to centerpieces, there are many varieties and styles to choose from for weddings. Most brides choose to have tall centerpieces for their tables, but there are some advantages to having shorter centerpieces:

• · Having a shorter centerpiece at your table allows for better view for the guests to see each other and the bride and groom.

• · This could also be more cost efficient for brides on a lower budget. Sometimes having a taller centerpiece means having to spend more per table.

• · If your centerpiece is not too tall, it will be easier for guests to take home with them and enjoy

• · This will also make it easier to donate your centerpieces after your event

Overall, shorter centerpieces are a good alternative, because not only are they practical, but can make your tables look just as beautiful!

HYATT REGENCY CURAÇAO GOLF RESORT, SPA & MARINA

I was so happy to have spent time the last few weeks researching the Hyatt Caracao on the tiny island located next to Aruba. One of our brides was considering this island for her Indian Destination Wedding. I was very thankful for all the info provided to us by Ms. Anjali Jethmalani. Not only was very helpful about knowing about the hotel but it was such a big help that she is Indian herself and knew so much about the menu, customs, traditions and what really goes into an Indian Destination wedding. I am very happy to recommend this hotel to all our brides who are looking at getting married outside the US. I love the fact that the hotel has a golf course, spa and there are casinos on the island as well. I can't wait to go check it out for myself!

The Phoenician Hotel

I was in Arizona last week and was glad to catch up with my friend Connie Thibault. She is now at the fabulous Phoenician hotel in Scottsdale, Arizona.

I was able to check out the property and I must say its stunning. They have a brand new ballroom which looks amazing and it can hold up to 700 guests!!! What is also great about this property is that it has a separate entrance for the Baraat.

The prices are incredible and they have a great in house Indian chef! If you are looking for a great venue in that area make sure to check it out!!

Where to Shop

My brides are always asking me to recommend my favorite bridals shops. After years in the industry and visiting many stores I have put together a list of my go to places.

Whether you are looking for that perfect Saree or your fairytale gown I am sure you will find it in one of these stores:

New York City
Kleinfeld Bridal
Wedding Atelier
Indomix

New Jersey
Bijou Bridal & Special Occasion, Paramus
Park Avenue Bridals, Verona
Khaas Boutique- Franklin Park
Sheetal- Iselin
Zari Boutique- Parsippany
Khubsoorat Collection by Geetanjali Singh- Iselin

Georgia
Bridal's by Lori- Atlanta
Ladlee- Norcross
Mirage Sarees- Atlanta
Sushma Designer- Norcross

Texas
Shemara Couture- Dallas
Stardust Celebrations- Dallas
Silk Threads- Dallas
Prashe Fusion- Dallas

California
Fusion India- Sunnyvale
Vastra by Namrita Chettiar- Santa Clara
Kirstie Kelly- Los Angeles
Carolina Herrera Boutique- West Hollywood

Why hiring a Shuttle or Bus is a Good Idea

I get asked a lot about transporting guests from the hotels to the ceremony and reception. Hiring a shuttle or bus service is a great way to go.

I recommend brides think about three main reasons in regards to hiring a bus or shuttle:

It helps the guests be on time
It prevents drinking and driving
It more convenient for your out of town guests


We’ve worked with so many bus companies over the years. Here are three top bus companies:

US Coachways
Trans America Coach Lines
Coach USA


Our top three bus companies are:

Always on time
Drivers are always professional
Buses are fresh and clean
We’ve never had any problems

Sabrina and Byron Photos

I am so excited to share the photos with you from our dear, dear friend Arden.
I love these photos and the couple looks so wonderful. I have to say, Sabrina and Byron are some of the nicest people we have ever met and I am very proud to call them our friends.... lots of love and best wishes to them...

Best 3 Limo Companies in NY and NJ

We frequently get asked by our brides to recommend limo companies for their wedding day. There are three limo companies we would recommend and they serve NY and NJ Areas. They are:

A Stretch Out
All Legacy Transportation
M&V Limousines Ltd.

There are some important questions to ask after you book your limo company.

1. Most times, the company will not be able to give you the name of the driver until the day of your event, but ask for the name and cell phone number of the driver.

2. Another thing to ask or research is where the limo driver can park. In NYC especially, finding a parking spot for limo drivers can be difficult. It’s best to ask the venue, church, hotel, etc beforehand and notify the limo company.

3. Ask the driver to be dressed appropriately. Tell him if you have any specific requests such as rolling out a red carpet for your guests or bridal party

4. Ask the driver or the company to make signage with your wedding party name. It is very important that guests know this is the limo for them. In NYC, there are limos everywhere and this is to avoid any confusion.

Choosing the right stylists for your big day...

Choosing a good hair and makeup artist is one of the most important decisions a bride can make. A great dress is nothing without the perfect hair and makeup. Here are a few tips and questions you should ask when looking for the perfect beauty team.

1. Make sure you get along with whomever you choose: this is important because you don't want any additional stress on the big day because of feeling uncomfortable around your team. They need to share the same vision as you on your hair and makeup.

2. Try out different stylists. You might think you like someone's work in photos but you can get a total different result in person. Interview about 3 stylists first, see their work and then set trials with at least 2.

3. Don't just go by what your friends tells you. Just because someone raves about the person they used for their wedding it does not mean they are the right fit for you. Ask questions such as, "What makeup do you use?", "How many brides have you worked with?", "Can I check some references?", "Do you wash your brushes after each client or do you open a fresh pack of brushes for each client?".

4. When discussing price, ask if there are additional charges for airbrush makeup, extensions for you hair or eyelashes, and travel charges. Also ask if the price of the the trial will be deducted from the total price if you book them (yes, almost all stylists charge for a trial).

5. Bring photo examples of what styles you would like. The more information you give to the hair and makeup artist the better they can see your overall vision. Also be clear in saying what you like and what you don't like. Not every bride likes red lipstick, but some brides really do need it to not look washed out in photos.

6. Bring someone you really trust to the trial. You will need a second opinion on your look but remember one person is more than enough. If you bring your mom, your sister and your maid of honor, be prepared to get three different opinions.

We have seen time and time again where brides leave a stylist trial more confused than when they started. It is very important to be clear about your wants and needs. You want to radiate on your wedding day and the right team of stylist can make all the difference.

Meghna and Harish Tie the Knot

Here are a few photos we received from STAK Photographer Duo of Meghna's and Harish's wedding. Enjoy!

Creative Fan Programs for Destination Weddings

Recently, we have seen a growing trend with destination weddings. More and more brides are traveling to tropical locations to get married. I have just discovered a wonderful company and they create custom fan programs.

Http://www.custom-programs.com/fanprogram.htm is a stationary company who makes custom fans programs and invitations. They offer very unique fan programs in five different styles: fan, folding, column, layered, and booklet. Anything can be written on the fans and you can chose your favorite color for the ink and paper, ink-style, graphics, or add photographs. The company will also send you a sample of the fan, before you make your final decision. They even offer rush delivery just in case you need the fan programs asap!

Custom-programs.com is a great company that can provide every bride with unique fan programs for any kind of wedding. These fans are also a creative way for your guests to keep cool in the tropical heat. It’s a lovely way to put your own distinct flavor on your big day.

Wedding Shopping for a Cause

There are always so many things to buy when you are preparing for a wedding. When buying these items, there are ways you can use your wedding to help others. Recently, Lucky magazine wrote a feature about companies donating to varies charities. Some companies have created special products and proceeds go to organizations that support causes, such as child refugees, women going to college, and fair trade.

Talbots has created a red rose silk scarf with the words grace, confidence, and wisdom printed on them. When you purchase one of these scarves, 100% of the proceeds go to the Talbots Women’s Scholarship Foundation. This foundation helps women return to college after a 10-year absence. This scarf would make a wonderful gift for your bridesmaids.

If you are providing your wedding guests with welcome bags, you should consider adding Mari’s New York brownies to the bags. For every brownie sold, 10% of the sales go to a foundation which helps support young local women in New York’s Lower East Side.

We all know that makeup is an essential part of your wedding day. Most of your female guests will be wearing makeup. Why not help dogs in need by buying Bare Escentuals Buxon Stay There eyeshadows? The company will be donating $20,000 to Canine Companions for Independence. This non-profit group provides assistance dogs to people with disabilities. The eyeshadows come in great colors and will be a great gift to give your bridesmaids.

When planning your wedding, try to help others in need by buying these charity items. All of the products can be used by yourself or given as gifts for your bridesmaids or guests. It’s a great way to buy necessary items and help financially support good causes.

Why Having Two Dresses Can Be Helpful

More and more of my brides are choosing to have a second dress on their big day and I think its a fantastic idea! There are so many advantages to having two dresses.

1. It gives you the option of having that great over the top wedding gown for your ceremony and then something chic and flirty for the reception.


2. If you have a big and heavy dress for your ceremony you can go for something light to make it easier to dance and enjoy the party.

3. If your ceremony dress has a long train, choosing a short dress for the reception can be a lot more comfortable and this way you will make sure you wont trip while dancing the night away.

4. Having two dresses can help you create two distinct looks and show your guests all sides of your personality.

Best Wedding Cakes

One question I always get asked by brides is "Who makes the best wedding cakes?" These are a few companies I have worked with over the years in NYC and am very happy with:

Sylvia Weinstock- http://www.sylviaweinstock.com
City Sweets- http://www.citysweets.com/
Cake Boss- http://www.carlosbakery.com/
Mark Joseph- http://www.markjosephcakes.com/
Elizabeth Hodes- http://www.elizabethhodes.com/

River Park: A Tom Colicchio Restaurant

New York City is a dream location for a wedding. There are many great locations available to host your big day. I just recently discovered River Park: A Tom Colicchio Restaurant. They offer an amazing view of the river and New York City skyline. The architecture of the space is modern and is made with natural materials. River Park can seat about 300-350 guests and about 600 standing. They have sliding walls throughout the restaurant, which allows for privacy, as well as seating flexibility. For private dining, they can entertain 200 guests inside, as well as 120 outside. They serve modern American cuisine with a twist and offer different private dining packages. A great benefit to hosting your event here is the complimentary valet parking located beneath the restaurant. This space will be a great location to host an engagement party and provide your guests with an amazing view of the city.

Winter Wedding

When a bride begins to plan her wedding, it can be very difficult deciding what season or even month the wedding should take place. Prime wedding months in the US are June, July, and August, which makes summer the most popular season to get married. Most brides chose to not get married in the winter, but here are the top 5 reasons why every bride should reconsider:

· Better Venue Options: Since winter tends to be the less popular season to get married, venue availability is more flexible and brides will have more available dates at their disposal. The prices are much lower as well. The same venue you may pay ½ in the January, Feb and March months.
· Control of Guest List: Winter weddings can work in the brides’ favor in more ways than one. In one aspect, some guests may be out of town due to the holiday season and this will make it easier to control the amount of guests attending the wedding. Another aspect is if the bride wants more guests, most guests do not have wedding after wedding after wedding to attend in the winter as they do in the summer. They are more likely to say yes and attend the wedding.
· Better Gifts: Since winter is the less favored wedding season, guests will have few wedding commitments and will be more likely to attend your wedding……hopefully this leads to better gifts??? It is easier on their pockets to get gift for a winter bride vs. summer (since they attend more wedding overall in the summer)
· Better Pricing: Vendors consider winter to be their slow season, so they may be willing to decrease their pricing in order to retain business during the sluggish months.
· Creative Themes: Winter weddings allow a bride to be more creative with decor and wedding favors. Instead of only using flowers, brides can create a “Winter Wonderland” theme or Holiday Theme. Brides can even serve hot chocolate or hot apple cider in addition to tea and coffee for dessert.

These are just a few reasons why brides should rethink their wedding date and consider hosting a winter wedding. There are a lot of great benefits!