Love these Flowers

March 14th, 2010 | Share Blog

5th_avenue_digital_imageGotham Hall is the kind of place that needs dramatic statements. Be it the lighting (provided by Bentley Meeker) or the lounge (which, as I mentioned was Luxe Event Rentals) or the floral.  I just wanted to share this GORGEOUS centerpiece by participating vendor Chestnut in the Tuileries…. They provided this LUSCIOUS entryway piece made of phaleonopsis orchids and gorgeous white hydrangea (on mirrored table).

Fantastic Photo Info and More

March 14th, 2010 | Share Blog

First, let me say Live Blogging is HARD!!! I’m trying to Jam to the great bands here and enjoy a glass of vino all while typing at the speed of light and being distracted by all the pretty things and amazing people here.

terry_gruber_sarah_merians_julie_skarrattAfter browsing and mingling with some of the great vendors here, I wandered upstairs to take in some of the Master Panels (in one of which, I’m flattered to say, I’m participating).  I sat in on the FANTASTIC photo panel with some LEGENDS in the wedding photography biz, the previously mentioned Julie Skarratt and Terry Gruber as well as Sarah Merians. It was actually, and I say this as a wedding professional, truly informative.  Terry offered up a couple of trends on wedding photography that he’s seen… Apparently ladies, we are influenced more by fashion photography now more than ever before. And, while at the start of his career there was more demand for black and white, now color seems to dominate the request list of brides.

It was fantastic to see how styles differed tremendously, as Julie preferred to take clandestine, totally unobtrusive shots of her brides and grooms, while Sarah preferred a good hour or two to capture some family time with the clients and their near and dear.

All of them however, agreed that despite the ENORMOUS number of people picking up digital cameras and calling themselves wedding photographers, the difference between an amateur and a career pro is not JUST in the price tag…. Sort of like how a cute H&M dress will only look good for a season vs. a fabulous, timeless ,designer little black dress… Somehow the cut and the fabric and all of it just FLOWS with a bit more elegance.

After the photo panel I stayed to hear my buddy, Lisa Hoffman, speak about trends and possibilities in wedding stationery. Lisa is the owner and principal designer of Ceci New York and is herself, Ceci — it’s her childhood nickname.  Her biggest tip, and I must say I agree, is to think beyond ecru card stock and not be afraid to be more imaginative with your stationery. While the day is important, that is sort of the calling card for what’s to come.

Finally, I checked back in on Stefanie and her mom, who were attending some of the panels. They both are having a fabulous time and in particular, her mother was saying that the biggest thrill was getting to meet many of the actual owners of the businesses, instead of just a random salesperson.  I think she appreciated the personal touch.

I’m supposed to speak next… hopefully someone will care about my topic and be nice enough to sit there and ask me questions. Maybe they’ll show up to learn how to pronounce my name!  Fingers crossed.

-The Blogsmaid

Intimate Encounters and Stunning Gowns

March 14th, 2010 | Share Blog

Bridal_reflectionsSo, I’ve spend the last hour or so walking around and getting the lay of the land here at the Ultimate Engagement.

Bridal Reflections pulled out all the stops and brought in literally RACKS of the most stunning gowns from an array of designers, many of whom are going to be stopping by and speaking with brides as the afternoon goes on.  One of the most commonly asked questions I get from clients is, “Where should my mom go for her gown?”

Well, happily, I got an answer to that question because Bridal Reflections is now carrying an ENORMOUS line of evening wear.  I was particularly impressed with this Ines De Santo that was recently seen on the red carpet at the Emmys by a certain Glee cast member. (I say certain because I actually have NO idea who anyone from Glee is … I live in a wedding bomb shelter that only has canapes and old editions of Martha Stewart Weddings and Brides. We only get WE on Sundays down there. :-)

After my foray upstairs, where I was able to see a ton of gorgeous accesso-ries from my friends at Gabriella New York, I wandered back downstairs where I ran into the illustrious wedding photographers, Julie Skarrett and Terry Gruber.  When I was getting into this industry, I had only hoped to find myself in a Skarrett-Gruber conversational triangle, and here I was! It literally made my day to get to talk to these two talented innovators who changed the game of wedding photography from portraiture into the really beautiful, photojournalistic style everyone covets today.

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It’s been a great opportunity for me to meet and greet with some of the best vendors in the industry.

-The Blogsmaid

And They’re Off!

March 14th, 2010 | Share Blog

Good Morning! It’s The Blogsmaid here, live blogging from the Ultimate Engagement!

We are up and running already, as brides and their companions have been lining up outside, despite our gloomy weather.  I got here a little bit early and got to check in with some friends and fabulous vendors who are here taking appointments with recently engaged brides. I started my morning as every girl should – surrounded by handsome men. No sooner was I through the door than I ran into DJ Jason Fioto of Generation Events ,followed by the caterer  Thomas Preti, who is providing some of the snacks and savories today at Gotham Hall.

The space looks amazing, by the way.  Luxe Event Rental, whose glamorous furniture is a must for stylish brides, provided the very lounge that I’m sitting on as I type this.  (Talk about unflattering pics, but isn’t the chair cool? )

I got to meet one bride who came in all the way from Westchester, despite the stormy weather. Her name is Stefanie, and she is recently engaged and decided to use this day to really jumpstart her planning. She checked in at 9:30 and has 30 appointments! 30!  She’ll literally be going strong until this evening.  I’m going to check in with her a couple of times throughout the day and see if she was able to find the perfect “matches” during her time here.

Ta Ta for now!  – The Blogsmaid

Bloomer and Blush-boudoir photography

March 14th, 2010 | Share Blog

Ultimate_engagementLove what you do & you can’t go wrong.

For me photography has been about seeing the beauty in every person & everyday life.

I especially believe in empowering women through my boudoir shoots because feeling good about yourself is the start to accomplishing anything you want in this world!

I take special care in delivering what my clients envision by paying special attention to every detail.  All of my boudoir shoots are intimate, delivering countless images with impact!

Having a background in Photography & Film I thrive by shooting in new surroundings.  This gives each client images with a new & unique look…  What is more mysterious or sexy than that?

The result is a final product with magazine quality images making all women feel confident & euphoric.

Total Entertainment: Not only in the music business but also in the business of making experiences to remember!

March 14th, 2010 | Share Blog

total_entertainmentThe Answer: “ Let’s Call the Whole Thing off”

The Question:  What is the craziest first dance request we’ve ever had? True story!.

The creative process is a partnership between us and the couple. Our bands, like Soul Solution, Soul Street and Soul Connection, bring the talent and energy to the event, and the couple steers the personality of the event. Go ahead, be yourself!

An all Motown ceremony? Check!

A Gospel Choir to sing the recessional of a Jewish Wedding? Check!

Hey Ya by Outkast arranged for Strings? Check!

The extraordinary musicianship of our bands combined with customization and highly personalized service from our producers is how we built our live music business (and how Paul McCartney & Billy Joel came to choose us to perform at their weddings).

Should the wedding reception be: a) Elegant b) sophisticated c) unique d) fun? We’re all of these things. There is no right or wrong answer – feel free to say all of the above!

Practice Makes Perfect: Rehearsal Dinners at ‘21’

March 13th, 2010 | Share Blog

Ultimate_engagement_rehearsal_dinnerBring your two families together for a rehearsal dinner of effortless elegance at a quintessential New York destination. Whether you would prefer the romantic, soothing tones of the Upstairs at ’21,’ an incomparable dining experience in the secret Wine Cellar, a light-hearted night amidst the comical decor in Pete’s Room, or one of our seven other  beautifully appointed rooms, ‘21’ is the ideal spot for you to celebrate this wonderful occasion.  Your guests will enjoy our Grand Award-winning wine list, sumptuous American cuisine and discreetly attentive service.

Our highly-trained planning professionals will guide you through every step, crafting your entire event down to the last detail.  We know that you have spent countless hours and a lot of energy perfecting your big day. Take a moment to relax and let ‘21’ serve up a memorable rehearsal dinner.

Spend your special night at ’21’ where renowned service meets fine food and a warm, welcoming ambiance.  We’ve had over 80 years of practice.  Let us help you make it perfect.

Pogo Events- The Great Bachelorette Race

March 13th, 2010 | Share Blog

You’ve picked the date, chosen the right invitations, booked a photographer, and reserved the Honeymoon Suite. Now’s the time to catch up with friends and have fun before the big day!

That’s where the bachelorette party comes in!

Meet Mary Catanzaro of POGO Events, who makes sure your bachelorette party is not only a stress-free chance to celebrate with your girlfriends, but also a luxurious day on the town designed especially for you.

The Amazing Bachelorette Race is part scavenger hunt, part obstacle course and all the best of NYC. Mary and the POGO team design a race around New York that highlights the bride-to-be and her favorite places in the city: where the happy couple met, their favorite neighborhood café, the place he proposed, and other famous and fabulous New York locations.

The bridal package–specially designed for The Ultimate Engagement–starts the day with champagne and chocolates in your hotel suite. Kick back in luxury with refreshments and great conversation with your girlfriends. Then let the race begin!

Hop in the waiting town cars and follow the clues around the city, taking pictures and completing fun challenges along the way. Find the Love Statue and take a photo of your team with 10 strangers holding hands, or cheer on your friend as she sings an impromptu karaoke performance! Each race is tailored to you and your favorite activities, and is sure to be a memorable event for every guest.

Once you’ve completed the race, all guests can relax and unwind with an exclusive spa treatment. Plus, the first team to cross the finish line receives an elite prize package.

Your bachelorette party should be as unique as you are! Just leave the planning to POGO Events. Explore the city, let loose with friends, and relax in style with the personalized Amazing Bachelorette Race. Learn more about the race at www.pogoevents.com.

AQUAVIT-CATERING & SPECIAL EVENTS

March 13th, 2010 | Share Blog

wedding_venuesFrom all of us here at AQUAVIT – congratulations on your engagement! You are doubtless already in the throes of planning your own wedding. Weddings are occasions of great rejoicing and we have seen how this most important moment in one’s life has evolved into a constellation of celebrations.

All too frequently, these happy celebrations involve anxious hours of planning the myriad details. In these modern times, brides are pressed from all sides to make decisions while balancing their day-to-day commitments. Fortunately, we live in an age where help abounds. The internet has opened up a community of brides, available at a finger-stroke, who can share their experiences and sources for virtually every need.

However, there is no substitute for the very tangible, human assistance that professionals can provide. Today, you will meet bridal specialists of all varieties – planners, designers, caterers, makeup artists, photographers, travel experts and many more terrific sources of assistance.

But where does Restaurant Aquavit fit in? While some venues are actually catering halls in disguise, AQUAVIT offers a refined level of cuisine, service and ambiance. A restaurant’s virtues are vetted daily by their discerning public. We pride ourselves in offering our private clients the same excellence they’ve experienced as our a la carte patrons. While few restaurant dining rooms can accommodate a large wedding, AQUAVIT offers spaces that are excellent choices for showers, rehearsal dinners and wedding breakfasts – convenient, attractive and many times cost effective.

We at Aquavit, with our fresh, understated modern style, look forward to assisting you in preparing for your special celebrations.

Wedding Photographer as Cinematographer: Not Just Taking Pictures, But Telling a Story

March 12th, 2010 | Share Blog

I was lucky enough to interview Terry Gruber in New York this week, and a single look at the walls of his office made it crystal clear why Terry and his team of Gruber Photographers are considered premier wedding photographers. The images there highlighted the fact that it was Terry who pioneered the break from “standard wedding photography,” or as he calls it, “The 12 basic pictures approach … one of the kiss, one of the dance, three of the bride … and all in color!”

His warmth, his humor, and his passion for his subject are what have driven his signature style, one admired widely in the photography world, and credited as having originated “wedding photojournalism.” Terry is also the only photographer recipient of the prestigious Modern Bride Trendsetter Award.

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