Tag Archives: wedding reception

Bridezillas gone WILD!!

Posted in Real Weddings + Engagements, Weddings by

images (19).jpgAlthough I remember hearing about this story a few years ago, it can still be filed under: deplorable!   The young lady, who I think we can appropriately label as the victim, recalled a story of attending a wedding, and not too long after receiving a message from the Bride expressing her dissatisfaction with the $100 wedding gift she received from she and her date. You can read the message for yourself below, but we must warn you: Your blood WILL boil.

“Hi Tanya, how are you? I just want to know is there any reason or dissatisfaction of Mike’s and I wedding that both you and Phil gave 50$ each? In terms of the amount we got from you both was very unexpected as a result we were very much short on paying off the reception because just for the cocktail + reception alone the plate per person is 200$ (as per a normal wedding range with open bar is about) and Mike and I both have already paid for everything else including decor, photography, attire etc and didn’t expect we had to cover that huge amount for reception as well. As I know you both live together and work, so I did not see any reason for that amount, when it comes to your wedding hopefully you’ll know what I mean. I hope for the best as from what we receive is what we will give back. Anyways, good luck on everything.”

Now, I’m not sure if the Bride was aware but the young lady whom she is berating had recently graduate, was only working part-time and didn’t know the couple very well. Regardless, I think it goes without saying that this is a most inappropriate response to any gift.

But….just in case anyone reads this that is unsure, let me take this moment to clarify: there is no rule that states that a guest must give a gift to a party to which they are invited or what they should give. No, not even a wedding.  And as the recipient, it is just poor etiquette to question the amount of the gift that is given and you should NEVER rely on gifts to pay off the balance for your wedding vendors.

Thoughts….PLEASE!!!

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2017 Wedding Predictions [to Ditch], According to David Tutera

Posted in Weddings by
wedding-trends-2015

photo credit: google images

When it comes to wedding trends, the rules of engagement are constantly changing.  And for 2017, yet another evolution of wedding planning is upon us.  In a recent interview with Brides Magazine, celebrity wedding planner David Tutera recommended these as the coveted en trend details to incorporate into your 2017 wedding.

David says: Ditch The After-Party
While you might be bummed to hear this at first, Tutera really believes guests should stay put, and you can bring the “after-party” to the party. “I want guests to stay in one location, and keep the energy escalating and flowing,” he explains. The wedding is the main event, so why risk losing the party vibes with a venue change? Tutera suggests couples can, “create movement and energy in one environment with lighting, entertainment, opening up a different bar or dessert station, etc.”

SocialBFly says: LOVE this idea and agree on all fronts!  It’s the reason why we adore one-venue weddings so much.

David Says: Modern & Industrial Vibes will be En Trend
Tutera forecasts a mix of metallics and whites to top the palette charts of 2017/2018, but forget the golds and shiny silvers. Softer, brushed metallic popping from bright white accents are a color combo made in heaven, and will totally help to achieve those “contemporary yet city hip vibes” that will be so on-trend. Combine this color palate with industrial and modern touches for a fashionable yet classy look.

SocialBFly says:  Metallics, when used correctly, can add a romantic edge to any decor motif so we’re heavy metal all the way!!

David says: Stay Connected
Regardless of what trends, themes, or vibes you’re going for, Tutera stresses the importance of remaining connected with your new spouse throughout the wedding day celebrations. “What’s been happening is couples separate to their friends and don’t hang out with their significant other on their celebration. That’s not good. That’s something I am trying to force people to understand is incredibly important.”

SocialBFly says: Noted!

paper-floral-wallDavid says: Incorporate Paper
Whether it’s in floral bouquets, incorporated into your big-day décor, or used as a way to preserve special wedding “memory moments,” incorporating paper into your wedding day is quickly growing in popularity — and for good reason. Economical, potentially eco-friendly and unique in any way you use it, paper isn’t just for wedding invitations anymore. Tutera says, “there’s so many interesting things you can do,” and adds, “People are sort of surprised, like oh my gosh, look what you can do with paper.”

SocialBFly says: Paper can add a variety of depth and texture to your wedding motif so this is yet another 2017 trend we are looking forward to.

David says: Ditch Receiving Lines
“I am not a fan of receiving lines,” admits Tutera. He adds, “I think it creates a large barrier of etiquette for that celebration — it’s too formal.” Instead, opt to greet your guests during cocktail hour, and throughout the night. It may not seem like it, but you will have the time.

SocialBFly says: A-GREED!!!  Goodness grief, we agree!!  There’s nothing that screams old-fashioned more than seeing the Bride and Groom with their bridal party lined up at the end of the ceremony waiting to greet all of the guests who attended.  Like David said, IT’S TOO FORMAL!!  And we like to make sure that the couples has enough time to personally greet their guests during the reception.

David says: First Looks
These are a keeper. Tutera gushes, “I love first looks. I think they’re brilliant. It takes me forever to convince a bride and groom to do that,” but he adds, “They’re more personal — I love them.”

SocialBFly says: I will forever have mixed feelings about the first look trend.  On one hand, it is an awesome way to ensure the couple spends as much time during the wedding and reception having fun interacting with their guests.  But the traditionalist in me (YES! the same traditionalist that does not like receiving lines…)  will always have a heart that skips a beat when a groom sees his wife take to the aisle for the very first time.

What are your predictions for 2017 weddings and brides?  Are there any wedding trends you’d like to see go away? Do you agree/disagree with David (or our) assessment of the future of weddings?

Pollen-Proofing Your Wedding Day

Posted in [Emergency] Wedding Kit by

Photo credit: mediabride.com

I don’t know about you but my allergy symptoms usually start around March, last until mid April, and are unforgivable.  I spend most spring days alternating between sneezing until I’m winded and blowing my nose just to relieve the sinus pressure building on my brain.  And I’m not alone – it’s estimated that some 14 million people also suffer the same runny,  watery, itchy, scratchy, pressurized existence that I do and fall and spring  – the peak allergy seasons – show them no mercy.  If you’re one of those people and are planning your wedding, be it set for any time of the year, the following are some tips to minimize the possibility of your nose interfering with your “I do’s”:

Okay, no-brainer here but your biggest allergy trigger will come from your wedding flowers.  It’s not so much the fragrance of a flower that makes us sneeze but rather the pollen.  Large, brightly colored flowers such as roses, daffodils or daisies have large pollens that are too heavy to be airborne and therefore, less likely to cause allergies. Here are a few wedding flowers that you can use for your wedding that have low pollen. Other low pollen flowers that would be suitable for bridal bouquets, bridegroom boutonnieres, and other floral embellishments, include:

  • Spray Roses – Tiny roses with less than 10 tiny heads on each stem. They grow in a huge variety of different colors and have a light fragrance.
  • Begonias – An odorless evergreen flower that can come in a variety of colors, including pink, yellow, red, orange, white, and a rose color.
  •  Camellias – A pollen free flower that has a very light fragrance and grows naturally in shades of white, red, or pink.
  •  Orchids – A beautifully radiant and durably versatile flower that grows in over 25,000 species; all of which are edible.

Other floral alternatives include using dried or silk flowers or perhaps, a brooch bouquet but if you are a traditional bride and real flowers are a must, I’ve read tips that suggest using the freshest flowers available help minimize the amount of pollen that is released.

Yet, in anticipating all potential allergy triggers, couples should think “beyond the bouquet”.   If the wedding or reception is to be held on a lawn, I’d suggest that the lawn be mowed two to three days ahead of time by a really good mower with an even better grass catcher.  Other nasal symptoms can be caused by everyday non-allergic triggers in the environment — such as hairspray, smoke, perfume, strong odors.  No, this doesn’t mean that couples should avoid topping off their look with a good scent but you may want to limit just how much, especially if it’s a new scent and you aren’t sure how you’ll react to it.

When it comes to allergies and weddings the best plans don’t always account for and stand up to mother nature – ragweed can be a you know what – so you’ll want to make sure that your wedding emergency kit includes moisturized tissues and a no-dose allergy medication just in case all precautionary measures fail .  Drink plenty of water to keep the toxins, uh, “flowing”.  Rinse and repeat.

Are you an allergy sufferer who planning their big day?  What precautionary measures are you taking to avoid the “A-choo” when its time to say “I Do!” ? 

City Spaces For Your Next Event

Posted in Venue and Event Spaces, Weddings by

When looking for the perfect place to book your New York City event, wedding, wedding rehearsal, or reception, check out these swanky spaces that were recently featured in IN New York Online Magazine.

Bello

Offering a sumptuous menu of traditional, hearty Northern Italian cuisine in generous portions, Bello restaurant is in close proximity to some of New York City’s top attractions, including Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall and the Theater District. For the perfect event, Bello offers a private dining room, which is available to cater parties à la carte, buffet or family-style. 863 Ninth Ave., corner of W. 56th St. & Ninth Ave., 212.246.6788, bellorestaurant.com 

Café Espanol

Café Espanol, tucked in the heart of Greenwich Village, offers patrons a wide variety of authentic Spanish cuisine. Specialty items include paella flavored with real wild saffron, imported Spanish manchego cheese and Serrano ham or imported pulpo. Private party rooms are available with lunch packages priced at $25 and dinner packages priced at $40. All packages include a four-course meal with wine, sangria and beer. 172 Bleecker St., btw MacDougal & Sullivan sts.,212.505.0657, cafeespanol.com

The Hurricane Club

The Hurricane Club is a modern interpretation of the tiki bar and restaurant, bringing together a sophisticated supper club setting with a celebration of retro tiki kitsch. Customized music options are available for private events. Your iPod or MP3 player can connect to the restaurant’s sound system for a seamless, professional sound. In addition, Hurricane Club has relationships with the best resources for floral design and audiovisual to further enhance your event. Polynesian live entertainment can also be arranged. For more information, contact Private Events Manager Kristen Martino at 917.922.9964 or fill out the Private Dining Inquiry form here. 360 Park Avenue So., at E. 26th St., 212.951.7111, thehurricaneclub.com

Remi Restaurant combines the rich traditions of Northern Italian cuisine with the allure of Venetian design and architecture. For private events, the glass-enclosed Atrium Garden is the ideal setting for seasonal dining and can be heated for year-round events. The space can accommodate 10 to 1,000 guests.  Grand Canal, Remi’s main dining room, evokes the spirit of Venice with an expansive fantasy mural of a grand canal. This space can accommodate 100 to 400 guests. The Rialto Room boasts its own private entrance on W. 54th St. and the space can accommodate 30 to 125 guests. The Chef’s Table can accommodate 10 to 16 patrons. 145 W. 53rd St., btw Sixth & Seventh aves., 212.757.7610, remi-ny.com

Located atop the Museum of Arts and Design, ROBERT features expansive views of Columbus Circle and Central Park. The event managers and culinary team, lead by Chef Leo Forneas, create new American fare and will ensure your special event is perfect. Robert, a new modern classic. 2 Columbus Ave., 9th Fl., btw Broadway & Eighth Ave., 212.299.7730,robertnyc.com

SHOPS AT COLUMBUS CIRCLE

Shops at Columbus Circle

The main event space on the 2nd floor of Time Warner Center is an exquisite indoor, open-air luxury event space with stunning views of Columbus Circle. From gallery art exhibits, public concerts, private receptions, live broadcasts and fiber capabilities, wine tastings, product launches and press events, the 2nd floor can easily transform to accommodate any high-profile or private event. For more information, contact Stephanie Fink, 212.801.1186, sfink@related.com

Place Cards vs. Escort Cards

Posted in Anatomy of a Party, Weddings by

Place cards and escort cards are probably two of the most important directional signs your wedding (or formal event) should have and while both feature the name of the guests and each have a logistical benefit their purpose is slightly different .

Escort Cards, when used alone, are a little more informal but still identify each guest, by name, and the table at which they can be seated.  Set them atop a beautifully decorated table located directly outside of your event entrance and once the card is retrieved and the guest finds his or her table, they may seat themselves wherever they like. If you’re considering a larger number of guests or are hosting a more formal event, such as a wedding, you may also want to strongly consider using a place card.

Remember to ALPHABETIZE YOUR ESCORT CARDS!  I cannot stress enough how important it is that your escort cards be pre-sorted by last name of the guest and NOT sorted by table.  And if your escort cards are something completely untraditional such as sea shells, picture frames, biodegradable seed packets,  (I think you get where I’m going with this), sort them (by LAST NAME) into small, manageable groupings and clearly label them as such, “A – F, G – M, N – T, U – Z”.  Your catering manager or event coordinator will love you for it!

Place Cards also identify each guest by name but are generally located at the table setting at the guests table. It’s looked upon as the more formal of the seating considerations – a personal Welcome to the event.  I like to think of it as carefully assigned seating.