Day #19 - Focusing on Reception Decor

On last Monday's blog post I shared some place setting ideas for the reception.  Well today we will talk about the reception's floral needs. I'm a firm believer that when dealing with the floral budget, put more towards the reception because your guests will be at that location for 4-6 hours verses your ceremony location for 1-2 hours.

For your reception decor, consider the following to enhance the space:

Cocktail table small arrangements

Escort Card table arrangement

Head or Sweetheart table arrangements (but you can cut costs in this department by using the bridal bouquets as decor)

Guest Book table arrangement, if it's not placed on the escort card table

Guest table centerpieces, possibly varying in height and size

Wedding cake and table florals

Gift table floral

Buffet/Catering table arrangements

Catering Tray floral buds

Bar arrangement

Restroom arrangements

One important note when selecting the guest table centerpieces, make sure to arrangement does not distort the guests conversation by being too large or by not using transparent vessels.

Until next time...WEDologize!

Photo credit - Husar Photography

Real Wedding: Kendele and Tony

On September 26th, the DE Team had the honor of directing a wedding for a fabulous and stylish couple - Kendele and Tony.  Evanston, IL was the city for their wedding nuptials.  The ceremony was held at Alice Millar Chapel located on Northwestern University's campus and the alma mater of the groom.  Then their wedding guests moved two blocks South to one of Evanston's hidden gems, The Crystal Ballroom and Lounge.

Take a look at the amazing blush, gray and navy details of Kendele and Tony's fall wedding:

Kendele and her squad. Beautiful bouquets by Flower Flowers Evanston

She wore a gorgeous custom Monique Lhuillier gown in ivory

Tony, his squad and their socks

The groom looking dapper in his custom navy tuxedo

Mr. and Mrs.

Modern details

Centerpieces by Flowers Flowers Evanston and the chairs and linens are from The Crystal Ballroom

Kendele and Tony's wedding cake was from The Baking Institute

Their 150+ wedding guests feasted on a delicious meal

Room shot of the reception at The Crystal Ballroom and Lounge

Cake cutting right before the dancing began with the sounds of DJ Marco

Guests did not leave empty handed - "S'More Love"

Congratulations Kendele and Tony!!! xo

 
Until next time...WEDologize!

Photography by Rush Productions

Real Wedding: Brittany and Edward

On Sunday, February 8th, the DE Team had the honor of directing a wedding for a lovely couple living in Atlanta, GA.  They wanted their winter wedding reception to be in the Windy City in Chicago's most favorite landmark...the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) on the 99th floor.  The 360 degree views should have been amazing for their 120 guests, but the overcast told a different story.

We had 11 weeks to bring Brittany and Edward's dream wedding to life with the help of some amazing vendors.  Take a look at their red, black and white wedding:

Brittany wore a gorgeous Pronovias wedding gown

Brittany's "something blue" was her beautiful Steve Madden wedding shoes

Juliet Tan Floral Design created her lovely rose and bling bridal bouquet and make-up by Lena Clark MUA.
Hair styling by Shantell at Iridescent Hair Salon

Perfection! Wedding day photography and videography by Rush Productions

Nothing but the best for Edward in his custom tuxedo

Married at Edward's home church on the south-side of Chicago

It's all in the details - low centerpiece design by Juliet Tan Floral Design

It's all in the details - low centerpiece design

Stunning 7-tier wedding cake by Delish Cakes

It's all in the details - Escort card by Calligraphy by CT

Gorgeous tall centerpieces by Juliet Tan Floral Design

Edward's Larry O'Brien NBA Championship trophy groom's cake by Delish Cakes

Brittney & Edward's first dance with music by JAM Music

Skydeck perfection!!!

May have been overcast preventing the Chicago skyline from coming through, but this photo is phenomenal!

Ending the night on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower

Until next time....WEDologize!

Photography by Rush Productions 

Twirl To Your First Dance

The first dance is that amazing moment during the reception when you get to show off your skills on the dance floor as your family and friends cheer you on.  I get asked time and time again from our couples for a list of songs.  My first suggestion is to always think of a song that reminds you of your relationship, but should nothing come to mind, consider this short list of popular first dance songs:

We Found Love - Ed Sheeran
All of Me - John Legend

The Way You Look Tonight - Frank Sinatra

Here and Now - Luther Vandross

At Last - Etta James

Marry Me - Train

What A Wonderful World - Louis Armstrong

Marry You - Bruno Mars

Just The Way You Are - Bruno Mars

God Gave Me You - Blake Shelton

A Thousand Years - Christina Perri

Let's Stay Together - Al Green

Unforgettable - Nat King Cole and Natalie Cole

Make You Feel My Love - Adele

You -Tony Terry

Always and Forever - Heatwave

If I Ain't Got You - Alicia Keys

By Your Side - Sade

Until next time...WEDologize! 

Photo by Rush Productions

Hello Matrimony Monday 2015

Well first...congrats on your engagement!!!  What does Matrimony Monday mean?  Well with the most engagements happening between the Christmas and New Year holiday, the Monday after New Year's Day is believed to be the most popular planning day for newly engaged couples.  So of course, I need to be apart of the planning and education :)

If you follow our blog, during the entire month of December 2014, I wrote a blog everyday as I shared all things wedding and inspiration.  Below is the link to all 31 blog posts of #31Days of Blogging that I know will help you as you start to navigate through planning your wedding.

1. Pop of Color for the Bouquet
2. Photography After the Ceremony
3. Popular Low Centerpiece Options
4. Uncooperative Wedding Day Weather
5. Photographing Wedding Rings
6. Right Before You Walk Down the Aisle
7. Along Time on Wedding Day
8. Father of The Groom and Wedding Planning
9. It's All On The Menu
10. The Mirrored Effect Partyscape
11. The First Look
12. Toasting The Happy Couple
13. Taking Care of Your Jewelry
14. Color of the Year 2015
15. Frosting Your Wedding Cake
16. Guest RSVPing and Food Allergies
17. Do Not Eliminate Your Gift Registry
18. Dancing With Your Sweetheart
19. Holiday Gifts for Newlyweds
20. Changing Your Name
21. How To Handle Wedding Programs
22. Wedding Morning Formula
23. "Pick a Seat" Ceremony
24. Out of State Wedding Party
25. Happy Holidays!
26. Reception Bar Basics
27. Lounge Furniture 101
28. Receiving Line of Not
29. An Untouched Ceremony Aisle
30. Table Number Misconception
31. Best of 2014 Dejanae Events Style

Until next time...WEDologize!

(photo credit - Robyn Photography)

The Table Number Misconception (Day #30)

Honestly, in my opinion, it is not an option to opt out of having tables numbers on your reception tables.  They are soooooooooo important for the organization and seating of your wedding guests.  But every now and then, I get the very creative couples that want to name their wedding tables in place of using actual numbers.  Now although the idea truly adds a signature style to your wedding theme, it does make it a little difficult for your wedding planner, caterer and sometimes even your guests to locate their seats.

Picture this...the reception room is dimly lit with candles and/or up lighting and you have 100+ guests trying to find a table name written in a fancy font.  It's going to take a bit longer than if you used a number.  Plus numbers are what the caterers see most often so it makes the service run smoother.  But should you desire a table name, consider adding a number just below (or above) the name to avoid any confusion.

Until tomorrow...WEDologize!

(photo credit - www.rushphotovideo.com; table number by www.CT-Designs.com)

To Receiving Line Or Not (Day #28)

Is the "receiving line" a dinosaur??? My personal opinion is YES!  It's rare to see the newly married couple, their bridal party and parents in front of the church quickly greeting guests as they make their way through the line.  Not saying you shouldn't have one, but understand the receiving line does take a long time and can cut into your photography time and reception time if not planned properly.  So what are some alternatives to replace the receiving line:

• Actually schedule ample time for photographs between the ceremony and reception, approximately 2-3 hours. This will then allow you to be apart of your cocktail hour and greet guests at the reception venue.
• Have the DJ make an announcement that the couple will walk around to each table and greet guests individually.
• Plan with the photographer to walk around to each individual table and take photos with you and your guests.

Until tomorrow...WEDologize!

(Photo credit - www.vsphoto.com)

Lounge Furniture 101 (Day #27)

I love the addition of lounge furniture to the reception space.  Typically done around the dance floor, in a corner sectioned off in the venue, or a separate room, this look can give the most traditional reception ballroom a splash of contemporary flair.  But as you know, it could certainly be an expensive addition to your already tapped budget. Consider the following ideas to get that look you've dreamt about.

Speak with the venue about using their "waiting" furniture, especially if you are the only event in the space. See if they will allow you to move the furniture into the ballroom or rearrange it's placement in the foyer. And don't forget to tip the "movers" because this would be an additional job for the reception location.

Create your color palette with the furniture on location by adding some pillows in your color scheme to the chairs and couches. Or add a throw for a big punch of color to the unsightly furniture (or stain) to make it blend with your idea.

Should you not be able to rent furniture, consider renting tables and ottoman's. They are not as heavy and would be less expensive the move. Then you could blend them or place them within the furniture that is already at the reception venue.

Also, check out your local stores like Target and Walmart around "Back-to-School" season. College dorm furniture and tables have that simple look that could be easily decorated with some fabric touches and pillows. But the best benefit, it's on sale ;)

Last, ask the venue if they have any older furniture on location that they'd be willing to bring out of storage...or course for a fee :)

Until tomorrow...WEDologize!

(Photo credit - www.vsphoto.com)

Reception Bar Basics (Day #26)

Although many venues offer a bar package with your meal service, should you be planning your wedding reception at a location that will allow you to stock the bar, how much of "everything" would you need?  Well below are some useful suggestions from Clever Parties that might help in determining quantities:

On average, expect guests to drink 2 beverages, alcoholic or non-alcoholic during the reception and possibly more during warmer months.  If you are serving wine during dinner, plan 1 bottle for every 3-4 guests (standard size) and 1 bottle for every 6-8 guests (larger size).
Until tomorrow...WEDologize!

(photo credit - Ven Sherrod Photography)

Dancing With Your Sweetheart (Day #18)

The first dance is that amazing moment during the reception when you get to show off your skills on the dance floor as your family and friends cheer you on.  I get asked time and time again from our couples for a list of songs.  My first suggestion is to always think of a song that reminds you of your relationship, but should nothing come to mind, consider this short list of popular first dance songs:

All of Me - John Legend

The Way You Look Tonight - Frank Sinatra

Here and Now - Luther Vandross

At Last - Etta James

Marry Me - Train

What A Wonderful World - Louis Armstrong

Marry You - Bruno Mars

Just The Way You Are - Bruno Mars

God Gave Me You - Blake Shelton

A Thousand Years - Christina Perri

Let's Stay Together - Al Green

Unforgettable - Nat King Cole & Natalie Cole

Make You Feel My Love - Adele

You -Tony Terry

Always and Forever - Heatwave

If I Ain't Got You - Alicia Keys

By Your Side - Sade

Until tomorrow...WEDologize!

(Photo credit - www.rushphotovideo.com) 

Frosting Your Wedding Cake (Day #15)

When you finally decide to visit a cake designer to create the most photographed item at your reception, the wedding cake, there are some cake frosting/icing terms that you should know:

Whipped Cream.
Cake Designed by BomBon Cake Gallery

Buttercream - a smooth, creamy icing that stays so its easy to cut. Can be used as a filling or for decorations.
Fondant - a sweet, elastic icing that's rolled with a rolling pin and draped over a cake forming a smooth, firm base for decorations.
Whipped Cream - a heavy cream that is sometimes used as a filling. If used as an icing, it's not recommended for hot weather.
Royal Icing -  is a thick paste made from egg whites and sifted icing sugar. This is the icing that is used to create beading, latticework, flowers and other creations that need to stay firm.

Fondant.
Cake Designed by Karen Scobbie Cakes

Buttercream and crystallized sugar.
Cake Designed by Dessert Menu

Fondant and Royal Icing.
Cake Designed by Delish Cakes

 
Until tomorrow...WEDologize

(photo credits - www.rushphotovideo.com)

Alone Time on Wedding Day (Day #7)

So should you want a little private time with your new spouse, consider doing the following...or planning this time into the wedding day schedule:

• Right after you have exited the ceremony, dash off to one of the dressing rooms for about 10-15 minutes instead of staying with your bridal party. While the ushers are exiting guests out of the church, you and your spouse can share a tender moment and talk about when you first looked into each other's eyes during the ceremony.


• During cocktails, make a brief exit and walk around the grounds of the reception venue or stand out on the balcony absorbing the day.


• And after you have greeted your guests at their tables, when it's time to freshen up, ask your spouse to come along...I'm sure he'd enjoy helping.

Until tomorrow...WEDologize

(photo credit - www.vsphoto.com)

Photography After The Ceremony (Day #2)

When deciding to take photos in between the ceremony and reception at least allot one hour for the photography session.  And should travel and multiple locations be involved, give yourself at least an hour-and-half.  Make sure to discuss the following with the photographer prior to the wedding (I suggest at least one month before) to ensure the best use of time:

• Scout photography locations near the wedding venue prior to wedding day and make sure to have the addresses handy on wedding day
• Reserve transportation for you, your spouse AND the photographer to get around especially if shooting in high traffic areas
• Make sure to factor in traffic and the time of day you are taking photos when planning out your photography timeline 
• Discuss a "Plan B" option should the locations you initially discussed are not available on wedding day or the weather is uncooperative

Until tomorrow...WEDologize!

(photo credit - www.imphoto.net)

Wedding Planning with Children

Many couples are blending families and the adjustment for the child can sometimes be difficult. With all the wedding planning, the children could feel left out and it's very important to make them feel included during the planning process and on wedding day.  You do not want children to move forward into the marriage feeling resentful of their parent's new partner.
 

 
I've listed some suggestions below that just might help alleviate the "sad face".  Consider including a few, if not all, during your wedding planning.

• Allow the child to be involved in a few of the planning meetings and give their opinion and make sure to take them on appointments with you.
• Give the children perimeters, but allow them to select their attire for wedding day. 
• During the unity candle lighting or sand ceremony, have the child join you both at the altar and make them apart of this important ceremony. 
• Ask the children to come the altar before the pronouncement of husband and wife, and ask the minister to pronounce you as "Husband, Wife and Family". 
• During the ceremony, present the children with a loving token like a necklace or bracelet to show them they play an important role in the new family. 
• Include the children in the engagement photo session and display not only couple photos during the reception, but photos showcasing the "new" family. 
• Have a kids table with goody bags and treats during the reception.

Until next time...WEDologize! 

(Photo credit: Rush Photography & Videography | repost from 12/16/12)

Introducing the Reception

The introductions into your reception are what set the tone for your wedding guests!  Make sure to acknowledge those who played a role during the wedding ceremony such as grandparents, officiant, hostesses, ushers/escorts and any other key players by asking them to stand.  Then set the mood for the entrance of parents, wedding party and the newly married couple by dimming the lights and playing some fun upbeat music.  Tell the wedding party to shake it up and dance a little as they make their way to the dance floor.  And once it's time for you to enter, have the MC ask the guest to stand and clap in celebration.

Then ave fun with with.  Take a bow and enjoy yourself as you make your first entrance as Husband and Wife!

Until next time...WEDologize!

Planning For An Outdoor Ceremony

I have planned numerous outdoor ceremonies and receptions during my career, and for 2014 the DE Team is spending a lot of time outdoors with our couples.  When considering an outdoor ceremony and/or reception, their are some major things to take into consideration...outside of having a Plan B.  Check out the list below:

• How many people can the outdoor ceremony and/or reception accommodate?
• What time of day will the ceremony be held?  The reception?  Asking these questions will determine if you need specialty lighting.
• What kind of foods will be held at the reception and how will they be served? Buffet-style?  Plated?
• What types of flowers and decor will enhance the "space".  Many flowers can't hold up well in direct sunlight, so select hardy flowers.
• Make sure your photographer knows the ceremony and/or reception will be outdoors.  He or she may need specific equipment to make sure the photographs come out correctly.
• What is the venues back-up plan in the event of rain?
• Will the lawn be treated for pesky bugs and mosquitoes?

Until next time...WEDologize!

(photo credits: www.vsphoto.com | repost from 7/30/12)