Plan Smart for Outdoor Weddings

I have planned a few outdoor ceremonies and receptions during my career, and for 2012 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 credit:  ceremony - The Knot; Reception - Elizabeth Anne Designs)

...I Found It, You Pin It...Friday!

For me, it's not the gorgeous blend of florals...peonies, calla lilies and a host of other vibrant red flowers, but it's the handle!  The black lace holding together these stylish blooms has sexy written all over it!!! Haute!!!

Until next time...PIN IT and WEDologize!

(photo credit - http://www.vofloraldesign.com)

Spruce Up Your Reception Tablescape

When creating your reception tablescapes, a lot of thought goes into the centerpiece selection and the linens.  But consider upgrading some of the items I've listed below to add that special touch for your guests as they are seated to dine on what is sure to be a fabulous meal:

Colored water or wine glasses alongside the venues clear glasses.
That pop of color will go a long way.

The dinner plate could rest upon colored chargers
for added style to your reception tables.

Consider colored or trimmed china over your standard venue white or ivory dinnerware.

Square instead of round china or another unique shape
speaks volumes on dinner tables.

Consider some these ideas once you learn of what the reception venue will provide.  A lot of the time, make the upgrades in rentals and keeping the linens simple is easier and much more friendly on the budget.

Until next time...WEDologize!


(photo credits - colored glasses; green charger plates; colored china; square china and mat )

...I Found It, You Pin It...Friday!

As I'm heading out to coordinate what I know will be a beautiful ceremony, I stumbled upon these gorgeous wedding ceremony altar arrangements!  In all their floral glory...they are lush and simply beautiful!  Who wouldn't want to walk down this aisle?!?! Enjoy!

Until next time...PIN IT and WEDologize!

(photo credit: Wed Luxe and Bebb Studios)

Wedding Photo Booth Mania

One of the most popular activities, that can turn into a great guest wedding favor, is the photo booth!  The newlyweds, bridal party, family and friends enjoy this reception activity so much that they go in and out the booth multiple times.  But what truly makes this activity fun are the props.  Some photo both companies provide props, but should you want to go on a DIY quest of your own, consider some of the ideas below:

Make a box (or trunk) of fun props like hats, boas, glasses for your guests.
You can easily grab these items from party stores.

Have fun with this DIY project of creating funny paper props attached to sticks.
Open up a pack of construction paper, glitter, markers and glue...then enjoy!

Add these really cool word bubbles for guests to write you a crazy message in chalk.

And don't forget the scrapbook for the photo print out and for guests to leave you a message.
This makes a GREAT alternative over your traditional guest book.

And should you be creating your own backdrop, jazz it up with sparkle and whimsical garland.

Until next time...WEDologize!

(photo credits: Photobooth - Photo Booth Rocks; trunk of props - Majestic Photo Booth; Paper Props - OneWed; Word Bubbles - Hello Lucky; scrapbook - Hudson Valley Ceremonies; Backdrop - www.hillaryschuster.tumblr.com)

Wedding Reception Bar Basics

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 next time...WEDologize!

...I Found It, You Pin It...Friday!

Today is Friday The 13th and you know what...that means absolutely nothing to me :)  But when I see this tablescape of lush, vibrant red roses...beautiful orchids...black vases...and ghost chairs...I'm in complete AWE!  WOW FACTOR to the 100th degree!!!  I know that would be one great conversation if I were sitting in front of these lavish centerpieces! Enjoy!!!

Until next time...PIN IT and WEDologize!

(Photo credit - www.exquisevents.com)

Designers Challenge: Refreshingly Simple

Well after 3 months of holding it in...I'm finally allowed to share that Dejanae Events was selected as one of six Designers in the Chicago Style Weddings Designers' Challenge 2012!!!  My Team of fabulous vendors worked so hard on creating my vision entitled, "Refreshingly Simple" and to see it come to life on pages 232-233 of the CSW September/October issue just makes me leap with joy!!! 

Check out some of the behind the scenes photos below and click to watch the video!  Oh and I dare say it again, I had the BEST team I could ever imagine.  Thank you from the bottom of my heart for bringing this to life.  I could not have done it without you!!!

 

The Refreshingly Simple Designers' Challenge Team:
Planner/Stylist - Desiree & Vanessa of Dejanae Events
Floral - Tiffany of Oliver Dogwood
Cakes and Desserts - Kristi and Annie of Wildflour Bakery & Cafe
Stationery - Christy of CT-Designs
China, Flatware and Stemware - Classic Party Rentals
Lighting and Draping - Sid of Precision Sound & Lighting

Until next time...WEDologize!

Wedding Inspiration - Aqua and Green

Today's color inspiration comes in the form of Spearmint and Lagoon.  Such refreshing that would work well in spring or summer.  What do you think?

Until next time...WEDologize!

(photo credits: invitation - www.stylemepretty.com / www.timelesspaper.com; centerpiece - www.ideasinblume.com; earrings w/ pillow - www.projectwedding.com; cake - www.theknot.com; cake knife set - www.etsy.com; bridesmaids dresses - Mi Belle Photography; color swatches - www.bbjlinens.com)

Wedding Card Receptacles aka Boxes

With a lot of couples waiting to get married in their late twenties, households have been established and the merging of the two can be challenging. Although it's suggested you at least register at one store, many guest still prefer to gift the newlyweds with money and gift cards.  So as apart of your wedding design, below are some really cool ideas on how to collect those "put-a-smiile-on-your-face" cards on wedding day.

Traditional bird cage receptacle

Elegant stacked card receptacle

Rustic wooden chest card receptacle

Engagement photographs card receptacle

Vintage suitcase receptacle

 Until next time...WEDologize!

(photo credits:  3-tired card box - http://www.creativecustomcardboxes.com; suitcase - www.wedding-zine.com; bird cage - www.exclusivelyweddings.com; engagement photos - www.advantagebridal.com; chest - Morgann Hill)

...I Found It, You Pin It...Friday!

The 1st Pin it Pic of July 2012 is for that lovely little lady who walks down that grand aisle, tossing petals so thoughtfully one a softly defined runner, with a little smile on her face...right before the bride's awaited entrance.  The flower girl sets the tone...builds up the excitement.  So nothing but the best basket for this tiny princess in her most frilly dress.  And what little girl doesn't like BLING!  Enjoy!

Until next time...PIN IT and WEDologize!!!

(photo credit: Tick Tock Couture Florals)

A Wedding Suited For Home

Having a wedding at your home, at a family member or friend's residence, although the idea is lovely...be realistic. Unless the home is spacious, can hold 50+ guests and at least a dozen vendors, consider a different style venue to accommodate your ceremony and reception. But, if you are moving forward with your "home" wedding, consider this very short list of questions:

• You will need to hire caterers. Can the kitchen accommodate?
• Do you have enough bathrooms or will you need to rent Port-O-Potties?
• What is the back-up plan should it rain?
• Where will guest's park their cars?
• What permits do you need to obtain and what is the noise ordinance for your township?
• Do you have enough outlets or will you need to rent generators?
• Can you or your family plan all of the details or should you hire a wedding planner?

Until next time...WEDologize!

(photo credits: ashleysbrideguide.com)