Weddings can be stressful, and it’s natural to want some rest. It’s also the perfect excuse to spend a day at the spa. Pre-wedding pampering is always a great stress reliever before your wedding day, and it’s an amazing gift to show your appreciation to your bridal party for all their help and dedication throughout the nuptials.
I recommend that my brides take at least one day to relax before their weddings. With the tranquil atmosphere found in many spas, believe me, you will leave feeling refreshed and anxiety free.
There are so many spas that have great wedding packages that are not only therapeutic (facials, massages and wraps) but also cosmetic (manicures, pedicures, hair and makeup). They even have group packages for your entire wedding party to take advantage of!
The best luxury spas can be found near your wedding location. I’ve found that nearly every hotel and resort has one, so finding somewhere to accommodate you and your bridal party is simple, just make sure to book one in advance.
Here’s a helpful website that you can search for reputable spas near you:
http://www.spafinder.com/spas/day-spas.jsp
My favorite spa in the whole world is…
http://spa.jwdesertridgeresort.com/
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Creative Centerpieces
Centerpieces play a huge part in setting the theme for the reception. Lately my brides have been making very unique choices when it comes to these decorations. I decided to compare some of the ideas that I’ve encountered and give my opinion on what looks good.
This centerpiece is one of the larger ones. It makes a powerful statement when guests walk into a room. The vases are tall, and there are only a few on each table, which can make a distinct impression. All of the linens and chairs are white, so the pink crystals stand out. The crystals, colored to match the flowers, create a beautiful effect in the evening as they reflect the lighting. I really like the color pink, but what also appeals to me is the use of the crystals to offer different moods throughout the night, especially if you are going to have lighting changes.
This centerpiece is elegant and sophisticated. The white hydrangea give the room a very romantic feel. The orange flowers color this centerpiece, making it a little more modern. I like that the vase is not filled in this centerpiece, as it is easier for guests to see one another across the table and enjoy each other’s company. Along with the chocolate linens, this centerpiece offers a romantic, warm feel for the reception.
The trend is also to do mixed centerpieces. It is best to be able to give some height to the room but also do low centerpieces with a variety of vases. This is yet another very modern look we see around New York City.
You can always save on the flowers and do candle centerpieces. I love this one that we saw a photo of..
The main idea is to keep your centerpiece unique and reflecting your taste.
A new trend for centerpieces is the use of fruit; I showed an example earlier how Nishma and Neerav used oranges in their centerpieces, but any fruit can work. The whole centerpiece can be just fruit or fruit can be mixed with flowers to create a great focal point for the table. By alternating the fruit in vases filled with water, the fruit stays fresh. It also adds color and brightness to the design. I have to say that this is a great idea for a more modern couple.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Bridezilla!
I read this in a magazine when I was on a plane...
"My coworker is getting married, and she's turned into a complete bridezilla. I could write a movie script about the living hell she's put all of us through. In spite of my total lack of interest in such things, I've learned about "hot colors" and theme consultants and catering contracts and handmade stationary and persnickety musicians who break their contracts in favor of better -paying gigs. The only part of this wedding I am looking foward to is when she leaves on her honeymoon.
She hasn't done half her job for the past month. She has a special "wedding" cell phone. and although I might wait for days for a response to a simple email query, that wedding phone is answered in a nanosecond, even if we're all in a meeting and even if the boss is visiting from upstairs.
I'm a single guy. I don't have kids. I don't date anyone from work. I just do my job and don't complain. I don't understand why certain people have these insane priviledges just because they have sick kids, get engaged, have an attack of melodrama, or whatever. Should I start a movement for non-prima-donna right? Any advice on how to cope would be appreciated."
-Weary in New Jersey
Why label a bride a "bridezilla"?
This week, I have heard so many people refer to a bride as a bridezilla. It kind of throws me off as there is a lot of details when it comes to planning. So, does questioning, negotiating and calling 10 times a day make you a bridezilla?
The answer is NO!
I have brides who try to negotiate prices and they are called "Bridezilla".
I have grooms who are highly involved and they are called "Groomzillas".
I always find it funny how these labels come to be.
I really feel that this is a special, and most of the time, a very expensive day. A bride or a groom has the right to be demanding in their needs. I know I drove everyone around me crazy when I was getting married. It can become overwhelming for a bridde. Many people do not realize that planning a wedding can be or become a full time job. That's why hiring a wedding planner (like us, of course) can help! Our goal is to get the bride (and family) organized, allow her to focus on her career and not drive the groom crazy! We also give the bride an outlet to talk about her wedding and voice her concerns without being critical.
We want everyone to have a happy planning experience!
"My coworker is getting married, and she's turned into a complete bridezilla. I could write a movie script about the living hell she's put all of us through. In spite of my total lack of interest in such things, I've learned about "hot colors" and theme consultants and catering contracts and handmade stationary and persnickety musicians who break their contracts in favor of better -paying gigs. The only part of this wedding I am looking foward to is when she leaves on her honeymoon.
She hasn't done half her job for the past month. She has a special "wedding" cell phone. and although I might wait for days for a response to a simple email query, that wedding phone is answered in a nanosecond, even if we're all in a meeting and even if the boss is visiting from upstairs.
I'm a single guy. I don't have kids. I don't date anyone from work. I just do my job and don't complain. I don't understand why certain people have these insane priviledges just because they have sick kids, get engaged, have an attack of melodrama, or whatever. Should I start a movement for non-prima-donna right? Any advice on how to cope would be appreciated."
-Weary in New Jersey
Why label a bride a "bridezilla"?
This week, I have heard so many people refer to a bride as a bridezilla. It kind of throws me off as there is a lot of details when it comes to planning. So, does questioning, negotiating and calling 10 times a day make you a bridezilla?
The answer is NO!
I have brides who try to negotiate prices and they are called "Bridezilla".
I have grooms who are highly involved and they are called "Groomzillas".
I always find it funny how these labels come to be.
I really feel that this is a special, and most of the time, a very expensive day. A bride or a groom has the right to be demanding in their needs. I know I drove everyone around me crazy when I was getting married. It can become overwhelming for a bridde. Many people do not realize that planning a wedding can be or become a full time job. That's why hiring a wedding planner (like us, of course) can help! Our goal is to get the bride (and family) organized, allow her to focus on her career and not drive the groom crazy! We also give the bride an outlet to talk about her wedding and voice her concerns without being critical.
We want everyone to have a happy planning experience!
Friday, June 27, 2008
Trouble For Destination Weddings?
The most exciting weddings to attend are destination weddings. Are destination weddings as fun as fuel becomes more expensive? We will have to learn to cut corners without making your wedding day less special.
Recently, some domestic airlines introduced new charges for checking baggage. The first checked bag is $15, second checked bag is $25, and so on. If you have to check a bag, then pick an airline that does not charge for the first checked bag. Click here to see which airlines do not currently have fees.
I have been thinking of ways to make destination weddings less expensive for my clients. Here are a few tips:
· You could send a package via FedEx. The two-day shipping service ranges from $10 to more than $80 depending on where the package is being shipped. If you choose this option, do not leave it to the last minute. You wouldn’t want your veil arriving two days after your wedding! And be sure to track everything you ship to avoid losing important items. Also, be careful about what you decide to ship and ask for advice on the best way to package things; your place cards won’t be much use if they are damaged on arrival.
· If your guests are only staying for a few days, advise them to take a large carry-on. One that is packed correctly can hold a few days of clothes, avoiding the expensive checked baggage dilemma. Be aware that some airlines make exceptions for mothers and they are often allowed to take an extra ‘babybag’ on board- use this to your advantage if it applies!
· In order to ensure that you only pack what you need, be sure to check weather information before leaving for your trip. Hotels do have a laundry room so another option is to pack less and wash your clothes at your hotel.
· Try not to bring wedding programs and table name cards if you can get them made on location. It will be one less thing to worry about when traveling.
Destination weddings do get expensive for guests especially if there are more and more unforeseen expenses that pop up.
Recently, some domestic airlines introduced new charges for checking baggage. The first checked bag is $15, second checked bag is $25, and so on. If you have to check a bag, then pick an airline that does not charge for the first checked bag. Click here to see which airlines do not currently have fees.
I have been thinking of ways to make destination weddings less expensive for my clients. Here are a few tips:
· You could send a package via FedEx. The two-day shipping service ranges from $10 to more than $80 depending on where the package is being shipped. If you choose this option, do not leave it to the last minute. You wouldn’t want your veil arriving two days after your wedding! And be sure to track everything you ship to avoid losing important items. Also, be careful about what you decide to ship and ask for advice on the best way to package things; your place cards won’t be much use if they are damaged on arrival.
· If your guests are only staying for a few days, advise them to take a large carry-on. One that is packed correctly can hold a few days of clothes, avoiding the expensive checked baggage dilemma. Be aware that some airlines make exceptions for mothers and they are often allowed to take an extra ‘babybag’ on board- use this to your advantage if it applies!
· In order to ensure that you only pack what you need, be sure to check weather information before leaving for your trip. Hotels do have a laundry room so another option is to pack less and wash your clothes at your hotel.
· Try not to bring wedding programs and table name cards if you can get them made on location. It will be one less thing to worry about when traveling.
Destination weddings do get expensive for guests especially if there are more and more unforeseen expenses that pop up.
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Our Washington D.C. wedding gets featured in The Washington Post!
On Saturday, June 14th our team went to DC to coordinate the wedding of Swati Raval and Manan Shah at The Ronald Reagan Building and ITC . This was one of the most anticipated events of this year for us. We had been planning this wedding since 2006! I could not believe how the entire day came together.
To my surprise, the next day, June 15th, The Washington Post published “Groom Turns Heads With an Elephant of an Entrance”, an article that featured Manan’s attention-getting entrance on an elephant! You can read the article here. We were so honored to be featured in The Washington Post!
To my surprise, the next day, June 15th, The Washington Post published “Groom Turns Heads With an Elephant of an Entrance”, an article that featured Manan’s attention-getting entrance on an elephant! You can read the article here. We were so honored to be featured in The Washington Post!
Manan decided against using a white stallion in his baraat, in favor of an elephant, something he said he had always wanted at his wedding. His three year old nephew joined him as people gathered and took photos. It was very exciting! We had all the people in Downtown DC at a standstill-- traffic, joggers, tourists and of course, the guests who had no idea of any of this! It was perfect… a total surprise to everyone.
I had the pleasure of dressing Minnie, the name that we gave the elephant. I decided to get a picture with her.. who could resist? She is so cute and gentle. I told my husband, Jay, I want one in the backyard!! HaHa
Swati was truly a vision in a gold and cream lengha. She looked soooo beautiful. I got a tear in my eye when she walked down the grand staircase at the Ronald Reagan Building.
Her makeup and hair was done by one of my favorites, Bridalgal.
Her makeup and hair was done by one of my favorites, Bridalgal.
The entire ceremony area was changed to RED, RED, RED for the reception. The Bride wore a red lengha with a long train in the back…. Really a new look that you will not find in India. The red and gold colors complimented each other perfectly.
Swati and Manan took their pictures in front of the Jefferson Memorial and The Capitol Building. Aren’t they the cutest couple? I love the DC shots.. my favorites. The bridal party wore rust orange and gold.
From start to finish, the day was stressful but worth it. I really could not feel a thing after the 6 Tylenol that I had to take from all the walking! A day in the life of a planner…
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Wedding in Wisconsin
In late May our whole team traveled to
The bride gave out cute scarves as favors for the ladies at the Mehendi. I loved the personal touch with the labels that said “SR Seema and Ryan”.
I loved Seema’s mehendi.. She wore traditional Indian gold bangles given to her by her mother.
The wedding was held the next day at the Milwaukee Art Museum… soon becoming one of my favorite venues that we have worked out of.
The Milwaukee Art Museum was such a great location for the wedding and reception. The architecture is gorgeous. I could not believe my eyes when the wing parts actually went up to the entire museum. I had to go take a photo.
We also had one challenge on our hands. Our team had to transform the area of the mandap into a complete dining area for 260 guests. With linens, centerpieces and table numbers and limited time (only one hour) this is quite difficult. Of course, without fail, the reception turned out beautiful. I loved seeing the white, white, white art museum go to lovely shades of hot pink.
Mission Accomplished.. another happily married couple!! Yeah!!
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Great Ideas From Virginia!
Personalization and price are two factors a wedding is planned around. Little details can make the event memorable but expensive. In our recent wedding in Richmond, Virginia we found some great ways to personalize the details without breaking the bank!
For Nishma's centerpieces we cut 50 oranges, submerged them in water and floated a candle on top.
For Nishma's centerpieces we cut 50 oranges, submerged them in water and floated a candle on top.
It looked great and was very inexpensive.
Nishma also personalized her dandiya sticks by attaching ribbons with their names on them.
All the kids looked adorable at the garba, and they had so much fun joining in the raas with everyone.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Wedding Season 2008 Is In Full Swing
Well, the traveling for wedding season has started. Two weeks ago, our entire team went to Richmond, VA for the wedding of Nishma Patel and Neerav Jadeja. We had been planning that wedding for over 9 months and it was so exciting to see the entire event come together. With a guest list of 700, we took our team of 6 staff members (and myself, of course) to organize their garba, wedding and reception. Everyone was so nice and the bride and groom looked amazing.
The centerpieces were a new twist for us... CARNATIONS... yes, the forbidden wedding flower, carnations are back in style... It was great. We did a sky blue and crisp white color scheme for the bride.
I am at the airport in Philly right now waiting for my flight to our next wedding... Milwaukee, WI. I would never even think to go to Milwaukee if it was not for this wonderful wedding for Seema and Ryan. I can't wait to meet her entire family and get his family ready for the baraat and traditional Indian customs. The space, The Milwaukee Art Museum is so great and I cannot wait to see her colors, chocolate brown, turquoise and hot pink all come together in the all white Art Museum. Stay tuned for the photos.. Oh, I got a new camera as well.. actually, my wonderful husband, Jay, got me a brand new camera for this wedding season.. he is so sweet.
The centerpieces were a new twist for us... CARNATIONS... yes, the forbidden wedding flower, carnations are back in style... It was great. We did a sky blue and crisp white color scheme for the bride.
I am at the airport in Philly right now waiting for my flight to our next wedding... Milwaukee, WI. I would never even think to go to Milwaukee if it was not for this wonderful wedding for Seema and Ryan. I can't wait to meet her entire family and get his family ready for the baraat and traditional Indian customs. The space, The Milwaukee Art Museum is so great and I cannot wait to see her colors, chocolate brown, turquoise and hot pink all come together in the all white Art Museum. Stay tuned for the photos.. Oh, I got a new camera as well.. actually, my wonderful husband, Jay, got me a brand new camera for this wedding season.. he is so sweet.
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