THE BRIDE'S CAFE

Meet Alison Hotchkiss of Alison's Events

I am excited about our featured guest today....the beautiful and oh-so-sweet, Alison Hotchkiss....Owner and Creative Director of Alison's Events.  Alison took some time out of her busy schedule to stop by the cafe today to share  some wonderful "planning tips" with us and I'm so glad she did.  Alison specializes in destination weddings......Alison and her team are amazing....their events are always "picture perfect"!  So without further ado....I give you  Alison Hotchkiss.

TBC:  Why should someone consider a destination wedding and what does one need to consider when planning a destination wedding in and outside of the U.S.?

AH: The number one reason is that destination weddings are a great way to have a really unique and memorable event where you really get to spend time with your guests.  You can also save a lot of expense by having your wedding and your honeymoon in the same location.  Maybe not literally at the same hotel, but someplace that's nearby and doesn't involve additional airfare.

If you have a complicated family dynamic, that's all the more reason to have your wedding in a neutral location.  Nobody has to feel like they're the outsiders, nor is there an in-town contingent who feels the pressure to entertain.  And the groom's family doesn't have to feel put-upon about flying to the bride's hometown - especially if she's from someplace no one would ever really want to go on vacation.

The most important thing is to find a locale you love, invite the people you love, and stay flexible.  With the right attitude and a little planning you can throw a truly memorable celebration. You also have to make sure you end up legally married when it's all said and done.  Find out all the legal requirements, both for where you live and for the destination where you're getting married.  Or, to be extra sure, just do a quick ceremony at the courthouse where you live before you leave.

TBC:  How does a bride incorporate "her personal touch" on her wedding?

AH:  Think about what the two of you like to do for fun, where you are from, special places you have visited together, and places and things that make you happy.  Then, take all those things and turn them into the little details of your wedding.  Some examples.

• If you love to visit tropical places, then getting married on the beach would be a perfect setting for your ceremony.
• If one person is from the east coast and one person from the west coast, then have your Moms pour sand from the beaches close to your home into one glass jar in place of the unity candle.
• If you are both avid snorkelers or surfers, then have that be a part of the wedding weekend activities; take your guests to your favorite spot and give lessons or take everyone on an underwater tour.
• If you love to salsa dance or enjoy listening to a certain kind of music, then have that be a part of your day, as well. You could have salsa instructors or a swing band instead of a traditional wedding band.

TBC:  Describe an "Alison's Event".

AH:  Generally our events are outdoors or have some outdoor elements to them. They're comfortable and inviting, organized and clean. I like an event to be harmonious with the space rather then taking it over.  Some events are colorful, some are monochromatic, sometimes they're fresh and minimal, but they're always happy, fun, and very much a reflection of the couple.  I know I've done a good job when people say, "This is so Amy and Evan."  Especially if they came to us not having any idea how to make the wedding unique and we pulled it off.

TBC: What has been the highlight of your career to date?

AH:  Being offered a book deal with Chronicle books. About three years ago, my friend Mallory did a book on outdoor weddings, and, after that came out, I thought, "How cool would it be to do a book like that - something informative and inspirational!"  I submitted my book proposal to Chronicle about a year and a half ago, and now my book is being published in February, 2009. It will be titled: "Destination Weddings: The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Wedding From Afar."

TBC:  What are some of the wedding trends to look for in 2008?

AH:  In 2007, the trend was to go green,  and I think in 2008, people are taking that deeper - at least, that's a trend for my events.  There's kind of a movement to do things more sustainably.  People are trying to be more conscious of what they're using and also trying to support local economies.

I also think another trend is to minimize the guest list to just friends and family and to go somewhere exotic for a week, versus the one day or weekend wedding that everyone is invited to.  Fewer people means you spend less money, have less of an ecological imprint, and throw a more intimate event.

TBC:  Please give a little advice to couples on a "small budget" that will help them have their dream wedding.

AH:  I'd start by figuring out what's most important to you, your fiance and your family, and then start with those decisions first.  If your venue, photos, and flowers are most important, then prioritize those and then find ways to save in other areas.  If your dress isn't high on your list, then get one secondhand. You could have a friend make the cake or use cupcakes.  Or skip the calligraphy in favor of a friend with nice handwriting.

There are lots of great ways to save money, and most of them involve not buying into the way things are "supposed to be" done.

• Enlist your friends and family to help you to do the flowers.  Buy all the flowers the day before the rehearsal  and spend that morning putting them together.  It's a project everyone can be involved in.
• Go simple on the menu.  The last thing you want is people too stuffed to dance.  You can serve a simple salad, a piece of grilled fish, couscous and fresh local veggies, and, voila!  You're done and you didn't break the bank.
• Skip the favors.  They can be pretty pricey, and too often I see guests leave them behind.
• If you don't hire a wedding planner, at least hire a friend or a day-of-planner to be the g0-to person the day of the wedding.  I promise it's worth it, because it lets you truly relax and enjoy.
• My book comes out in February, 2009, and there will be tons and tons of pointers on where to skimp and where to splurge.

TBC:  What are some of your favorite destination wedding locations/venues?

AH:  I LOVE Mexico and Costa Rica!  I feel like they are the two countries that are still affordable and easy to get to, and the local people are so nice and welcoming.  I love the beaches, and of course the surfing, weather, food, music and everything Latin culture.  I love doing weddings at private estates: ideally a beach ceremony and big party at the house.  I also love the wine country; Napa and Santa Barbara have some great spots.  And I have a new love for Harbour Island in the Bahamas. It's my new favorite place, next to Kauai.

TBC:  Tell us a little about your personal life so we can get to know you a little better.

AH:  I love to travel and embrace adventure. I love to be outside, too.  I'm a surfer, swimmer, snowboarder, mountain biker, hiker, runner.  I have a vintage motorcycle and enjoy taking it out with my friends and exploring San Francisco and the surrounding areas.  I also love taking photos, as does my boyfriend. I like things that are luxurious and things that are down home and cozy.  I can hike a mountain and camp out one night, but have no problem spending the next three nights at a five-star hotel.  I have two cats, Miso and Tofu, and I treat them like my kids.  I am currently planning a trip to South America this winter.

And now let's check out a few highlights from one of Alison's beautiful events!!

Alison shares a little "411" on the event.....Maida & Josh's wedding took place at the Cornerstone Gardens in Sonoma, CA in the Fall 2006.  During the ceremony, guests decorated small blue balls with advice and good wishes...later turning a tree into the guest-book.

Books were stacked on the table and screen printed with the table names....(Maida & Josh are teachers).

After dinner, guests discovered cupcakes suspending from the ceiling (where the escort cards once were) while they enjoyed Ben and Jerry's mini ice cream cones...the same treat Maida & Josh enjoyed the night they got engaged.

After a send-off with sparklers, the bride and groom wove goodbye from a vintage baby blue convertible.

Alison and her fantastic team....Alex...Alison...and Kelsey!

Thanks Alison for stopping by today and sharing all of the great information with us....we can't wait for the new book to come out...so exciting!!!!  Also thanks to Wendy Maclaurin Richardson for all the beautiful images!

Tara Guérard - Part II

Welcome back to Part II of our feature with Tara Guérard of  Soirée.  If you are just stopping by the cafe...please check out Part I of Tara's feature....Tara shares a few "Soiree Tips" that you don't want to miss.  Well, up next is our second wedding designed by Tara and yes....Liz Banfield is the amazing photographer that sent us the beautiful images....Enjoy!

Our featured couple!

Gorgeous Bouquet and I love the white and green color-palette!

I love all the details of this beautiful wedding....let's check them out...

Aren't these cute...love how the color-palette was incorporated!

Thanks Tara...your weddings are always so gorgeous and I love all the signature details....TBC loves "Southern Weddings"!!

Tara Guérard: Part I

I am so excited to have as TBC's guest....the amazing and truly inspiring Tara Guérard of  Soirée.  When I think of "Southern Weddings", I can't help but think of Tara.  Her events are always so beautiful, but the one thing that stands out in  all of them.... are the DETAILS....Tara's attention to details are simply amazing!  She truly has her "signature" on each and everyone of them and it shows!  Not only is she wonderful at putting together the most incredible and fabulous soirées....she is such a charming and sweet lady!  So without further ado...I give you Tara....Enjoy!!

TBC:  What details make a "Southern Wedding"?

Tara:  A "Southern Wedding" is one where you consider your guests first!  You want them to be comfortable and show them "Southern Hospitality".

TBC:  How does a bride incorporate "her personal touch" on her wedding?

Tara:  With her "style".  When I meet with a client, I play "the investigator" and I find out her likes and dislikes. I want to incorporate a personal element about the bride into her wedding...it could be with a food item - like her favorite yummy salad or a decorative piece that describes her style.  You want to find that "something" that your guest will say, for example..."This is so Sarah"!  Remember, it's the small and thoughtful details that will be remembered by your guests!

TBC:  Describe a Tara Guérard event.

Tara:  A Tara Guérard event is very attentive to detail in EVERYTHING.....the desserts, the lighting, making sure the music is not to loud, seeing that there is always someone there to help the guests.  Emphasis is placed, not only on being able to get to the bar and food stations, but ensuring that guests can see what's going on; making sure guests have a place to sit and are able to engage in new conversation.  You want everyone to be able to talk to each other.  Everything I do when planning an event is about the guests.  These are all things that make our weddings and events special and having a male guest come up to me and saying he loves everything about the wedding....this really makes it special!

TBC:  What advice can you share with our couples on a "small budget" that will help them to have a "Signature Wedding".

Tara:  Pay attention to DETAILS!  You can also rent glassware and linens in fun bright colors...this will add to the decor.  Also...something as simple as dimming the lights at the venue and this doesn't cost a thing!

TBC:  What has been the highlight of your career to date?

Tara:  Having my first book published...Southern Weddings and being a new mom and still being able to work!

TBC:  What is your favorite wedding venue?

Tara:  My favorite weddings are weddings enjoyed at home.  From the start they are personal and you can transform the yard into something so magical!

TBC:  Please give us a few "Tips" for a successful Soirée.

Tara:

1. Hire a great photographer...You want someone who can capture the ambiance, the details and the memories.
2. Choose colors and foods that reflect a time of year...i.e. don't serve figs in the Spring - it's a fall thing.
3. Never do a seated dinner around a dance floor.  Define each space - one area for cocktails, one for dinner, and another for dancing.
4. Let your personalities show through at your reception.
5. Try a 4X4 foot table for 8 - it's a guarantee that people will talk to each other.
6. Offer guests a signature drink as a welcome.  It is a personal detail and prevents that initial backup at the bar.
7. For outdoor weddings, always remember....if you don't have a backup plan....IT WILL RAIN!  Also, make sure to invest in a few bug machines and set them out weeks in advance of the event...these machines can be purchased at your local home improvement store.

Tara's fabulous book...if you don't own a copy it is a "must have"!!!

The oh-so-talented, Liz Banfield is the amazing photographer that captured the beautiful weddings that Tara shares with us in Southern Weddings.  Liz was kind enough to send me two of Tara's weddings to share with you today....Let's check out the "Something Blue" wedding of Lainey & Trip !

Our featured couple...Lainey & Trip!

A little "something blue" in the bouquet!

The blue and white letter-pressed invitations!

Blue and white "Welcome Bags" for their guests!

I love these gardenia balls..and the blue ribbon is perfect!

WOW...totally sophisticated and I love the clean lines of the total look!

How cute are the blue drink umbrellas....Tara gives step by step instructions on how to make these in her book!

What a great idea...rose petal boxes....how elegant!

Tara....thank you for stopping by the cafe today....you are truly an inspiration to all of us and we look forward to your next book and hopefully seeing your beautiful "Southern Weddings" on the network!   Check back later guys for another "Southern Wedding" from Tara!

Sofia Crokos Events: Part II

As promised, Part II of our feature with the amazing Sofia Crokos of Sofia Crokos Events.  If you are just joining us, please check out Part I....Sofia's interview....so very inspiring to help you plan your special day.  Below are more beautiful images of Sofia's events.....let's get inspired.....Enjoy!

The beautiful Sofia!

Such a charming table...beautiful color combination!

A fun way for your guest to find their place cards!

These 3 images are different looks for tent decor!

Image #1 courtesy of Tanya Malott.  Images #'s 2-4 are courtesy of Bentley Waters Photography. Image #5 courtesy of Holger Thoss Photography.  Image #6 courtesy of Tanya Tribble Weddings.   Image #7 courtesy of Julie Skarratt Photography.

Sofia Crokos Events

I am so excited about TBC's featured guest, the beautiful and 0h-so-charming, Sofia Crokos of Sofia Crokos Events...a boutique event planning firm based in Manhattan.  Sofia has orchestrated some of the most beautiful weddings and events and her work has been featured in Martha Stewart Weddings, In Style Weddings, and Town and Country Weddings magazine....just to name a few. Please visit Sofia's site....it is truly beautiful and so very inspirational. Sofia shares some wonderful insight on planning your special day......let's see what she has to say.....Enjoy!

Sofia and Mocha!

TBC:  As a planner, where do you pull your inspiration from?

Sofia:  I get inspired from almost anything.  I can walk into a store like ABC Home & Carpet and look at home furnishing, see a great movie and get inspired by the tone of the movie, or eating at the Waverly Inn and observing all the fabulous people and seeing what they are dressed in, reading and looking through my fashion and interior magazines and seeing the new trends.  All that gets brought to the table when I am meeting my clients and seeing how we can implement a lot of these things into their wedding.  And lastly, I will say that most of my inspiration comes from listening to my clients.

TBC:  Why is it important to hire a planner?

Sofia:  Hiring the "right" planner and I say "right" because it's imperative that the bride and or the groom really interview at least 2-3 planners to make sure they have landed the right one that is suited for their event, their budget, their style and most importantly their personality.  These days more and more brides are going that direction because of  the limited time in their schedules that they face because they have these high power careers and don't have the time to give to their wedding.  Other important reasons to hire a planner is that they will bring expertise, knowledge and an abundance of resources to the table, which is a huge plus!  And most of all, they will alleviate the stress in the planning process and especially on the day of!

TBC:  What qualities should a bride look for when searching for a planner?

Sofia:  COMMUNICATION!!!  The planner must have this important skill or else she is doomed!  It is the only way that she will be able to understand what her client wants and be able to deliver it.  Of course this does go both ways too.  If I feel I am perhaps not directing my client to the right vendor, then I need to hear it from them so that we can fine tune our selection of vendors and fix the problem.  The other quality that I feel is important is a sense of style.  I think presenting yourself with a flair of fashion, proper etiquette and to be well groomed is important to the bride's conscience. Every bride wants to have a beautiful event and if the planner shows up the first time looking like she put no thought in herself, the bride might feel that she will do the same for her wedding and that is certainly not a good thing!

TBC:  What are your favorite color palettes to plan the wedding decor around?

Sofia:  It could range from a white canvas, which of course is the easiest way to go with, to just about anything.  I love a challenge so if the room has a melange of tones in their carpet, then we will pick out that one or two to play with.  But like any true artist or painter, the white canvas is the best way to go so then I can create anything you want from there!

TBC:  What is your favorite type of venue?

Sofia:  I love tents!  Whether we are building one on a vineyard, beach or one's backyard, again it goes to the blank canvas like I mentioned above.  I love building something from scratch based on what the client's taste or idea might be.  Logistically, there is so much to consider and financially it is one of the most expensive ways to go.  But it's a great way to throw a party if the budget allows you too!

TBC:  What details of the wedding play an important part of the decor?

Sofia:  Most of your details for decor plays an important part, I believe, during your wedding reception.  That is where most of your dollars for decor is spent.  I think every aspect of your wedding pertaining decor is important.  I mean you want to give your guests a good sense of design perhaps first at the ceremony site, then build it up a notch for your cocktail hour and then WOW them for the dinner.

TBC:  Tell us some fun details about your home life.

Sofia:  I am a Brooklyn girl, born and raised and proud of it!  I am also proud of my Greek heritage, which I continue to follow by visiting Greece twice a year.  I have traveled to some great locations, both professionally and personally.  Traveling is a great desire of mine and I want to go to places like India, Australia, China and Argentina, to say the least.  And lastly, but most importantly, I have the most amazing pet, my darling cocker spaniel who has been with me for almost nine years, Mocha!  Mocha is the most energetic dog I have come across.  She makes me laugh and to me laughing is the best remedy!

Now let's check out some of Sofia's beautiful events!

Simply Stunning...the beautiful floral was designed by Lewis Miller of LMD Floral Events!

A beautiful birthday bash Sofia planned with Matthew Robbins of Artfool!

Images #'s 1 - 4 and #'s 8-9 are courtesy of Belathee Photography.  The beautiful floral in images #'s 1-4 were designed by Lewis Miller of LMD Floral Events.  Images #'s 5 - 7 are courtesy of Jason Walz Photography and Matthew Robbins of Artfool designed the beautiful florals for the event.  Thanks Sofia...your events are truly beautiful...check back later guys to see more of Sofia's amazing weddings and events!

"Details Details"

Happy Friday Guys....I'm excited to introduce to you the 3 beautiful and talented ladies of Details Details, a premier full-service event planning and design company.  Jeannie, Brooke and Michelle are amazing and their beautiful weddings and events have been featured in countless wedding publications.....the ladies truly capture each  and every "Detail" of your beautiful day.  Jeannie shares a little "Detail" with us.....Enjoy!

TBC:  What details make a "Signature Wedding"?

JS:  A Details Details Signature Wedding is really a reflection of the bride and how we create the wedding around her.  Each bride has different tastes and style, which can be seen from the huge variety of wedding gowns available.  Some choose lace, while others choose princess cut, some are strapless and some choose quarter length sleeves.  There are so many different themes, color combinations, eras to choose from.

TBC:  How does a bride incorporate "her personal touch" on her wedding?

JS:  A bride can incorporate personal touches in so many different ways.  In one example, the bride and groom loved candy and sweets so not only did we do an elaborate table of candy and treats in her wedding colors, but we included gourmet caramel apples.  She also named tables after favorite desserts, like Creme Brule and Red Velvet Cake.  The bride also wanted to use Chinese Red as a primary wedding color but not having the wedding look too ethnic or traditional as her fiance was not Chinese so we paired it with a bright fuschia to create a modern edgy feel.  Smoked color plexi glass floated across the table while flowers and candles dangled from them.  The groom's interests were not missed as we created a martini ice luge of the New York skyline, to represent all the NY friends and family who flew to CA for the wedding.

TBC:  Describe a "Details Details" event.

JS:  A Details Details event can be just that...Details.  From the moment guests arrive to everything they see, hear and touch.  We carefully plan every aspect of the day.  At one wedding, the bride wanted everything to be green and brown.  It's common to have the flowers and decor in these colors but we looked at every detail and even designed a menu around only those colors, like Filet Mignon with Garlic Sauteed Spinach to Chocolate Lava Cake with Pistachio Ice Cream.

TBC:  What are some of the wedding trends to look for in 2008?

JS:  2008 is about the food for us.  Candy Stations or Interactive Dessert Stations are a huge trend this year.  It has become so popular that we are going to be offering a service called "Petite Sweets Table".....custom designed based on color and desserts and candy that the client loves.  Another food trend is late night snacks, mini burgers and shots of COKE and sweet potato fries and white cheddar popcorn at midnight!

TBC:  What has been the highlight of  Details Details to date?

JS:  Opening our first office in Orange County last November.

TBC:  What's next for Detail Details....hopefully a book, television, product lines.......

JS:  We have been approached about doing a book....not sure yet and we will continue to add to our current retail product line Maddie Totes.  For example...gardenia hair clips.  Each gardenia is individually handmade in Hawaii.  They are made from a water-based clay.  Extremely light-weight and will not brown when handled by the hairstylist or sun on your wedding day.  Each gardenia has a built in clip and will not need a bobby pin to attach to the hair. 

Thanks Jeannie for stopping by the cafe today and now guys....let's check out some of the inspiring "Details Details"! 

The beautiful ice luge of New York City's skyline!

Simply Stunning......guys check out all the "Details" that Jeannie spoke on!

The delicious "details" of the Candy Station!

Details from the open house of Details Details new office....wish I could have been there!

All so beautiful and the "Details" are amazing....guys I hope all the "Details" have inspired you to plan your unforgettable event!

Jung Lee of FETE

I'm excited to have as our guest today, the amazing wedding planner and event designer and now author, Jung Lee of  FETE.   Last summer when I found out that Jung was coming out with a new book I immediately pre-ordered my copy and I received it last week.  Guys, it is truly one that you need to purchase........it's full of wonderful inspiration, beautiful images and "tips" that we can all use for planning the event that truly tells your personal wedding story!  I give you the oh-s0-fabulous Jung!  Enjoy!!!!!

The beautiful and incredibly talented Jung Lee!!!!!!!!

TBC:  Tell us about your new book and the inspiration behind it.

Jung:  I am so excited about the new book, FETE: THE WEDDING EXPERIENCE.  In the book, I tell the story of 9 very different weddings, each one demonstrates how to think and act like your own planner.  It is both a coffee table book and a planning book.  My goal is for the book to be a source of great insight and inspiration while providing critical advice along the way that will significantly impact one's wedding.

TBC:  Where do you get your inspiration from when it comes to the design of your client's wedding?

Jung:  Weddings are such a personal thing.  My belief is that a great wedding needs to reflect the couple getting married.  Before I can start planning a wedding, I really need to understand who my clients are.  I start by spending a lot of time with my clients and asking them lots of questions...what are their passions, how do they spend their free time?  What is their home like?  If they like to entertain, what is their personal taste?  Also, I view their personal style, learning about their culture or heritage or small tidbits about them.  All of  this becomes my source of inspiration and then I can go about coming up with great creative ideas for every element of their wedding, from the food to music, to decor and flowers.  Otherwise, the wedding will be just like all others.  I have been fortunate to have had wonderfully interesting clients.

TBC:  What "sources" should couples go to for inspiration?

Jung:  Certainly there are many bridal publications and books.  But I really encourage brides to look beyond that - I draw inspiration from great art, architecture, interior books and magazines, great restaurants, fashion, gardens, ad campaigns, museums, galleries, how something is packaged.......it's really endless.  The important thing is that whatever inspires you in everyday life should inspire your wedding.

TBC:  What advice/suggestions can you give for couples on a budget?

Jung:  There are so many things you can do that don't cost a cent.....the way you lay out the space......I think is one of the most critical factors in design and budget has nothing to do with it.  Be resourceful (understanding all your options including non-wedding talent).  Also remember that most things are negotiable.  The more flexible you are the better chance of reducing the price.  Also it is not what you pay...... but what you pay for is what you get!

Example - Catering (eliminate food stations, choice of entree, substitute your cake for their dessert).

TBC:  What elements make the event memorable?

Jung:  Energy is created by a lot of things.........The design and layout of the wedding, the flow (timing the different parts of the wedding so it is seamless and constantly interesting). When there is no food or music for 10 minutes, people's personal energy drops and they start looking at their watch.  Also, any environment gets old when it stays the same.  Think about how to keep it interesting the entire evening.  I do it by introducing new elements throughout the night.  And of course the heartfelt emotions at the wedding and you want your guests to feel like they have really been well taken care of .

TBC:  What are some of your favorite venues?

Jung:  I love spaces with great details and elements that make it feel unique.  I want my weddings to feel like someone's home, not a place they rented for the day.  Anything "cookie-cutter" turns me off!  Some of my favorites in New York include the lofts and historical spaces that allow you to bring in your own personal rentals.  In New York, I love the New York Public Library along with some of the great lofts.  There are places in Miami, like Viscaya, that really allow for so much potential.

TBC:  How does one choose a wedding planner?

Jung:  You want to find a wedding planner who excels in two very distinct areas - creativity and project management.  On the creative side, it is easy to judge because they can show you work from the weddings they have been involved with.  You want to find a planner who gets you - your style, your interests and what you and your fiance are about.  As you look at their work, you will either feel it or not.  The project management side is harder to assess.  Ask a lot of questions about how they manage their clients, see their management tools (planning schedules and time lines) or ask pointed questions about how they prevent logistical problems.

TBC:  Please share a little of your personal life with us.

Jung:  I am a mother of two beautiful and healthy children.  My son is almost 4 and my daughter is 10 months.  Being with them is pure joy and delight.  They are so incredibly funny, smart and sweet.  I feel so very blessed and honored to be their mother.

Thanks Jung for stopping by and sharing  a little of the FETE experience with us and congrats on a wonderful book!!!!!!!!

The Wedding Party

Earlier today I posted on DIY Weddings, but if you are not the DIY type, then the Wedding Party is where you need to go!  I posted about the Wedding Party a couple of weeks ago but I wanted to remind you all about it.  This wonderful event is hosted by the Wedding Library.  What a great resource to help you with the planning of your big day!!!!!  Read more about it below!!!!

On Saturday, January 26th, the Wedding Library is hosting The Wedding Party for brides.  The event is limited to 200 engaged women.  There will be a champagne breakfast at the Carlyle Hotel, celebrity speakers and the chance to meet all the best vendors in New York at the Wedding Library. Martha Stewart Omnimedia is our exclusive media sponsor.  There will be a fabulous gift bag, food, gifts and the chance to win glamorous wedding essentials.  Tickets can be purchased on-line at: http://theweddinglibrary.tix.com or by calling us at 212.327.0100.  Hurry as we will sell out!

We are offering readers of  The Bride's Cafe who purchase Wedding Party tickets a free copy of "Clearing the Aisle", a humorous novel by Karen Schwartz.  All you have to do is mention that you are a Bride's Cafe reader!  (Books are available until we run out!)

   

The Wedding Library

Today's post is about a wonderful wedding resource in New York called The Wedding Library. For those of you who are not familiar with this research boutique, I asked planners Claudia Hanlin & Jennifer Zambinski to share with us what The Wedding Library is all about.

The Wedding Library is unique - a chic haven where brides can consult with our experienced wedding planners, purchase scrumptious wedding products and research the finest wedding talent available.

Housed in our elegant four-story townhouse, we're known as the premier wedding planning service in Manhattan.  Our planners are meticulous, experienced, fun and accessible.  Our retail store houses the most stylish collection of boutique bridesmaid dresses including Thread, veils, headpieces and shoes.  We carry an exquisite collection of wedding stationery and our experts assist more brides than any other store in New York.  From custom artwork to fun shower invites - we've assembled the best there is to offer.

Our buyers constantly seek out unique and charming gifts for bridesmaids, friends and, of course, the bride.  From jewelry to guest books, we've gathered gifts we'd love to get.

We are widely credited for revolutionizing wedding planning by bringing together brides, vendors and experts under one roof, making it easy to assemble a team that's best for you.  Our seven-in-house planners offer a unique, complimentary referral service where you can review and discuss the work  of over 100 vendors.  Over the years we've distilled the vendors we recommend to those who are outstanding, innovative, reliable, personable, professional and fun.  Following a competitive and rigorous vetting process, the Wedding Library invites A-list vendors to become members of the Wedding Library.

The Wedding Party

On Saturday, January 26th, the Wedding Library is hosting The Wedding Party for brides.  The event is limited to 200 engaged ladies.  There will be a champagne breakfast at the Carlyle Hotel, celebrity speakers and the chance to meet all the best vendors in New York at the Wedding Library.  Martha Stewart Omnimedia is our exclusive media sponsor.  There will be a fabulous gift bag, food, gifts and the chance to win glamorous wedding essentials.  Tickets can be purchased on-line at http://theweddinglibrary.tix.com or by calling us at 212.327.0100.  Hurry as we will sell out!

Thanks Ladies!!!!  Below are a few images of Claudia and Jennifer's  beautiful events.

WOW!!!!!  I love the color combination, so beautiful!!!!!

How charming is this??????

Lyndsey Hamilton Events

Happy Monday Guys!!!!!  Hopefully everyone has the latest copy of Martha Stewart Weddings, (mine came in the mail on Friday!) and as usual it is wonderful and full of all"good things"!  The cover story is about the Today Show Wedding of Jessica & Cody, but there is also a beautiful wedding feature of Lily & Robert. I am happy to say that their wedding was planned by the oh-so-fabulous Lyndsey Hamilton of Lyndsey Hamilton Events, and the floral and event design by Matthew Robbins of Artfool, who by the way has a fabulous interview in this issue as well.

So I asked Lyndsey to share some of her highlights about the wedding and to give us a little insight on Lyndsey Hamilton Events.  So let's get started........

This year has been our busiest and most fulfilling yet!  My favorite wedding, Lily and Robert, took place this summer at the bride's family home in Westchester, New York.  We planned the wedding from beginning to end.  We worked closely with the bride's mother, as the bride lived in London throughout the entire planning process.  It was a labor of love and so rewarding to see the event unfold and come into fruition.  We began planning in January and over the next seven months, my team at LHE (Lyndsey Hamilton Events) and Matthew Robbins and his team at Artfool, managed to create a Martha Stewart worthy event!

We love planning events at homes because they are so personal and literally EVERY detail has to be considered, from what place setting to use, to the lighting, and the ingredients of the menu.  It is truly special to be apart of this process!

This past year, LHE expanded to California, with one of our New York planners, Jennifer Brown.  We are planning events throughout California, from Vineyard weddings to grand Malibu estate events.

Planning Tips for the Brides: ENJOY your day and RELINQUISH CONTROL!  Trust your vendors and your planning.  LIVE in the moment of the day!  You will know when you find the PERFECT LOCATION!  Decide what is the most important to you and BUDGET ACCORDINGLY!  Make a list and place each vendor category in order of importance and what percentage of your budget you are going to allocate for each category.  I always tell my clients that food and alcohol can consume up to 50% of the budget.

In 2008, we look forward to all of the fabulous and distinctive events in New York, New England and California.  We welcome embarking on another great season!

Thanks Lyndsey for sharing a little part of "your world" with us.  Below is a beautiful wedding that Lyndsey also planned that took place at the Wheatleigh Hotel....Enjoy guys!

Beautiful florals designed by Matthew Robbins of Artfool.

Awesome photography by Jeff Tisman.