Count down to 2011!

Why do we love New Years so? It's not just the champagne toasts, confetti, and fireworks - there are so many ways to bring in the "New Year" and say far well to the old. So many ways to let go of the past and start all over again. Perhaps that's what we love, it's the chance to reset the clock and welcome all the new possibilities of a few a brand new year.

I like to start the year off by writing a few lists. Tonight I'm writing 3 lists:
1.) What I'm most thankful for in my life right now.
2.) What I'd like to accomplish by one year from today
3.) What I'm going to do to improve, enhance and treasure my relationships with my family and friends.
So, what about you? Don't forget to mail it off to yourself tomorrow. When you receive it put it up someplace safe and don't open it for at least 6 months to see what how your doing.

I want to take this moment to thank you for making 2010 such an amazing year for us - I hope we've brought some inspiration, beauty, and laughter to you over this past year. We wish you all the joy and promise of the happiest of New Years! Here's to a fantastic 2011!

T'was the day before celebrating..

For all you hosting parties tomorrow this is for you. I was feeling inspired by a little Dr. Seuss... enjoy!!

T'was the day before Christmas and soon many of you will,
finish shopping and decorating and feel the party hosting thrill.
Are you looking for a little inspiration when you holiday entertain?
Here's a few ideas to help make your home celebration a little more sane.

If you're hosting a dinner party, try a double duty decoration treat.
Use cookies iced with guest's names - a placecards you can eat!
So busy that a "sit-down dinner" is just too much for your plate?
Try a causal cocktail party - guests will think light hors' devours are just great!
Using a single theme like cranberries is something your guests will simply adore.
Oranges in served in the food, as decorations and in cocktails?... who could ask for more.
Serve a Coffee Bar decorated with candles nestbled in fresh coffee bean,
the scent of coffee as the candle melts creates an oh so cool scene.

Have a friend or loved one who's stationed far, far away?
Have guests sign a fun poster with something sweet to say.
Now if you feel overwhelm don't be afraid to ask for a favor,
Consider co-hosting a dinner party with a friend or a neighbor.
I hope you find these tips helpful for your holiday night,
and we wish you a Christmas filled with love, laughter and light.

Quick Highlights... The Chamberlin Holiday Open Houe

What a fantastic afternoon at the historic Chamerlin in Hampton, Virginia yesterday. We were honored to be in the company of dozens of fine vendors offering entertainment, gifts, and more at The Chamerlin's first Holiday Open House. A spectacular scene showcasing this exquisite venue and treating guests to live Holiday Carols, a Gingerbread Workshop, Horse & Pony Rides, Face painting, Hot Cocoa & Cider, Cookies and so much more. I can honestly the experience was one of a kind and I was delighted the Vivid Expressions could be a part of the festivities. Here are just a few highlights from the celebration... enjoy!

Thank ok now some of these pics were taking with my cell phone but I'd like to say thank you to Image One Photography, on site photographer for the event and provider of some of the more artful images... bet you can guess which ones they are. Happy Holidays to all!!

Caricatures at The Chamberlin

We are so looking forward to performing (and selling) On-the-spot Caricatures at the simply enchanting Holiday Open House event at the historic and exquisite Chamberlin tomorrow from 12pm - 4pm. We, along with many others, will be offering unique gift items such as our fun and distinctive Caricatures to guests at this breathtaking venue... hope to see you there!!

Work Ethic... when events become work.

What is your Personal Work Ethic Philosophy? I recent saw truly inspiring Oprah Winfrey on a Barbara Walters special discussing some of her own (no pun intended) philosophy on work, charity, legacy and being of service to others to a divine or philanthropic purpose. She quoted a song which lyrics said, "just keep on using me until you use me up."

If you ever wonder what my philosophy is when it comes to my approach towards the work I and my team do (Any work - Regardless of how big or small, how fun or difficult) it is actually two fold. The first is to remember everything I (or those I work with) do will benefit the "Greater Good" (or the "Bigger Picture"). In my case the "Greater Good" is usually the event, the Client, the experience of the guests and so on.

The second is to strive to do every job (again regardless of task's size or status) with great care, pride, dedication, to the best of my ability and usually extending myself to rise above and beyond what is called for. I often think of these words which sum up my philosophy beautifully...

"If it falls to our luck to be street-sweepers, sweep the streets, like Raphael painted pictures, like Michelangelo carved marble, like Shakespeare wrote poetry, and like Beethoven composed music. Sweep the streets so well that all the hosts of heaven and earth would have to pause and say ... ...Here lived a great street sweeper"

- Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., June 20, 1965

A moment of gratitude

It was about this time last year, well every year, that I take a moment to sit down, reflect and plan for the year to come. Most people are familiar with a "Goal" or "To do" list for the New Year. Some write down the resolutions (changes in behavior) and goals - mapping our a plan to achieve what that want accomplish in the year to come. I did something similar to this last year accept I added on large twist. Before I even considered "what I wanted to do" in 2010 I wrote a two and a half page list of what I was "Thankful for having right now" in 2009. I didn't expect this letter to be so long but once you really sit down and take account of what you have, what you are truly thankful and blessed. What were some of my items? My beautiful, healthy daughter, a warm and safe home, my marketable talents and skills, being able to spend time with my Mother who is alive and well, and so on.

So, why is a Gratitude list so important when setting goals for the New Year? It's, in part, because of the "Law of Attraction". The Law of Attraction is a theory that our thoughts, believes and even feels play a critical role in the life we currently have and in the manifestation of what we create in our lives - a positive state of minds and vision attracting positive results and likewise with negative mindset.

In order to be in the proper state of mind to attract and achieve success you must not only focus on some kind of future success. That puts us in a constant state of anticipation and may even leave us with a feeling of un-fulfillment. Instead envision today's success, place yourself in a state of accomplishment and gratitude right now! This mindset and feelings will fuel you to meet your goals.

I recently opened and read the envelope that held my "Gratitude & Goals" letters which I wrote and mailed to myself a day before New Years Eve last year. I found myself stunned by how much I've achieve over the past 12 months and was also reminded of what I am grateful for in my life. It's the most empowering way to end the old year and begin the new. B e grateful and goal oriented 2011... try it!!

Holiday Open House Highlights

On November 30th & December 1st I was deligthed to share our Event Design Studio-gallery with some of our awesome Friends, Colleagues, Clients, etc. during our 1st annual Holiday Open House events. Guests experienced our studio-gallery beautifully decorated for the occasion (well, many occasions actually including weddings), delightful refreshments including Pomagranate Champagne Cocktails, S'more & Italian Cream Cupcakes from Just Cupcakes, fabulous cuisine from Chef by Design, unique tablescapes displayed side-by-side with their concept illustrations and exquisite Artwork including custom designed Copper Art. Here are a few highlights.

Big thank you to ONON Digitography for the stunning images... thanks Bill!!

Let the merriment begin!!

Thanksgiving feasting... check, Black Friday shopping... check and yes, the Holiday Season has officially begun!! As the days grow shorter and the nights colder it time to share in the warmth, lights, laughter and love of those near to us. I can't express how much our Friends, Clients, Colleagues, Fans, and Supporters have ment to us in the past year. So here, at Vivid Expressions, we cherish the connections and friendships we share by taking some time to celebrate.

We are hosting an"After Work" Holiday Open House on December 1st at our Studio-gallery in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Please join us for "Event Art After Work", a gathering for our special Friends and Clients (past, present and future) designed as a relaxing after work affair. Enjoy refreshments and original Artwork in our unique Event Design Studio-gallery environment. For more information or to register to attend please visit http://www.vividexpressions.com . I hope that you can join me for a little merriment after work this coming Wednesday!

What: "Event Art After Work" Bride & Client Holiday Open House
When: Wednesday, December 1st, 2010
6pm - 9pm
Where:Vivid Expressions Event Design Studio-gallery
2505 Horse Pasture Road
Suite 104
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23453
(Near the corner of Dam Neck Road & London Bridge Blvd)
Directions

Local TN: 757-802-3299
(Toll Free): 888-878-4843

How many Hors d'oeuvres do you need?

Woo hoo! The Holiday party season is about to begin! A fantastic time of year for friends, family, food, and fun. It's also a great Holiday Party opportunity for Hosts to throw Cocktail Parties. Cocktail parties are popular at this time of year because they are just so flexible. They can be a preludes to a dinner, done in conjunction with another friend's party as a "kick-off" a bigger party or a Cocktail Party can simply stand alone as a time to relaxing and mingle.

I could focus on the "Cocktails" to serve at a Cocktail party (or even a cocktail reception) but it's also important to make sure offer enough hors d’oeuvres for your guests. So how many hors d'oeuvres do you need for the crowd? Here are some tips to help determine the type of Hors d'oeuvre Service to offer guests (Light, Medium and Heavy Hors D’Oeuvres) and how much to feed your guests.



Light Hors D'oeuvres
Light Hors d’œuvres refer small appetizers served as an afternoon snack or before a seated meal. They may be cold, light, and often consist of fruit, crudités (cut fresh vegetables), cheeses, dips, spreads, and crackers. They are usually accompanied by cocktails or other beverages such as tea, coffee, sparkling water, punch, etc.

Light Hors D'oeuvre Service
When serving light Hors d'oeuvres plan on 4 - 6 pieces per guest.




Medium Hors D'oeuvres
Medium style Hors d’oeuvre service will offer your guests more food and can be considered a hearty snack eaten between lunch and a late dinner. They can consist of many of the same items seen in a light Hors d’oeuvre service but they may also include delicate savory finger sandwiches, petit fours, small tarts and sweets – much like the foods you’d find in a British-style Afternoon tea.

Medium Hors d'oeuvre Service
Plan 7 to 10 pieces per guest


Heavy Hors D'oeuvres
Heavy Hors d’oeuvres are the most substantial of the Hors d’oeuvre services. These Hors d’oevres are usually cooked and served warm (ex: savory or sweet Baked Puffed Pastries, Greek Lamb Meatballs, Mini Spring rolls, Bacon wrapped Scallops, Thai Chicken skewers, Smoked Salmon on mini potato pancakes, Beef with Horseradish on Crostinis, etc). Heavy Hors d’oeuvres can be used to substitute a meal and are ideal for cocktail parties and cocktail-style receptions.

Heavy Hors d'oeuvre Service
Plan for at least 11 to 13 pieces per guest

Last but not least... if you missed us

Yesterday we were delighted to make the "Hampton Road's Finest" Bridal Show, our last Bridal Show of 2010, at the simply elegance and enchanting Founder's Inn & Spa in Virginia Beach. Unfortunately a camera phone just doesn't do this justice but...


What's up next? Our an evening Bridal Holiday Open House at our Event Design Studio-gallery to be held on December 1st from 6pm - 9pm. If you are a Bride who would like to join us for the "Wedding Art After Work" Event please the "Shows & Presentations" page of our website for details. http://www.vividexpressions.com

Hope to see you there... Cheers!!

Last but not least!

We invited you to visit us as we participate in our last Bridal Show of 2010 - The "Hampton Roads Finest" Bridal Show! Join us as we are prepare to showcase a selection of very special new designer products from two exciting, innovative and truly Artistic wedding lines call "Copper Wedding" and "Bridal Sculptures." Experience our work as well as the services of dozens of other wedding professionals on the enchanting grounds of the exquisite Founders Inn & Spa in Virginia Beach.

"Hampton Roads Finest" Bridal Show

Sunday, November 21st, 2010

2pm - 5pm

The Founders Inn & Spa

5641 Indian River Road

Virginia Beach, Virginia

For tickets or more information please visit http://www.showbride.com/... looking forward to see you there!

A quick peak...

Just a very small look at the beginning stages of a wedding ceremony site design concept being illustrated... enjoy!

Behind the Design: Can you see me now?

Ok, image celebrating a very special occasion. Perhaps it's a fantastic wedding or cherished anniversary. It could even be a wonderful birthday honoring someone you love. In any case, it's a joyous celebration simply filled with family or friends you haven't seen in a while, dozens of fun activities and traditions you will surely treasure for a lifetime. It doesn't matter if it's a wedding or a reunion there will most certainly be toasts, dancing, laughter and tons of memories... you just wouldn't want to miss one moment of it.

Guests enter the reception hall or ballroom and all remark on the decorations. The dramatic professional lighting and the beautiful special linens and exquisite place settings. They then notice the interesting centerpieces done by a "friend" of the host who is "crafty" - decorative and promenade on the center of each tables. Well, if the other guests didn't take the time to notice them they soon will and they better like them because unfortunately, they will be the only thing they are going to see. In design any piece most meet the two criteria of form and function, the centerpiece was not designed to meet those needs. One of the biggest mistakes I see in novice table designs is when someone does not take into account Scale and Line of Sight.

Scale

Scale, in the case, refers to the design of an item (or focal point like that of a Centerpiece) that is in balance, correct proportion, and size in comparison to the space and/or items around it.

Line of Sight
This is the visual space or area over the tabletop that allows guests to have an unobstructed view across a table and across the room. Low centerpieces (Centerpieces typically less than 10" tall) do not present this issue and are the simplest solutions however, the design of some tall centerpieces may be a concern. There are two design techniques that may used to insure a tall centerpiece that does not interfere with the Line of Sight of guests. The first is to create one that's largest, most dense area or focal point rests at least 24" above the table. Another is to create a tall design that's structure is translucent, wispy or consists of a lot of "negative space" or open spaces throughout the area between the base and up to at least 24" above the table.

Exciting New!! Featured in "Best Wedding Planners in Virginia Beach" Article

Wow, I'm still tickled by this. Vivid Expressions is honored to be named one of the "Best Wedding Planners in Virginia Beach" in an article posted by Yahoo Associated Content on September 28, 2010. We were one of 5 top notch Wedding Planning companies in Virginia Beach. Check out the article by Stephanie Espiritu below... enjoy!!

http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/5825778/best_wedding_planners_in_virginia_beach.html?cat=23

Left Behind - Waisted Favors, Waisted Money

The last song is playing, the guests are saying their "Good-byes", and the blissful Bride & Groom are heading to their honeymoon suite. As the Ballroom or Reception hall's lights raise and the room is illuminated the break-down process swiftly begins and dozens of staff and event professionals buzz around clearing, uninstalling, removing and cleaning. Now, if I've done my job my Client is completely oblivious to this is "Behind the scenes magic" however if you've ever attending a wedding reception odds are you've noticed one thing we occasionally see as well.

Think about, the celebration is coming to end and you begin to gather your jacket, purse or keys. You look down and you see them. Scattered across the table - leftover favors. Maybe you feel bad that the Bride & Groom took the time (and money) to select those bottles of bubbles or tulle wrapped Jordan Almonds (which I personally avoid) and you decide to take one just out of courtesy. Of course, they will probably end up in a drawer or even the trash once you get home.

THE PROBLEM:

Some Couples spend a good deal of money purchasing the same old types of "generic" favors for 50, 150, 225, 300 or more guests only to have about half of them left behind on the tables after the event is over. So why are they left behind? Because they are so generic or simply don't have any practical use. After all, not everyone will want a tiny tube of bubbles. The truth is, I always advise my Clients to spend money on the things they really want as a part of the experience of their special day. I ask them to think creatively and "out-side-of-the-box" when it comes to traditions. Some Couples have simply choosen not offer their guests favors however, they often feel guilty about not having something special designated as a souvenir of their "Special Day".

THE SOLUTION:

The solution is to make favors unique and to only give favors to those who REALLY want them. Select favors that guests can only receive if they really want them - items that are made "on-the-spot" or that serve a purpose other than just remembering the day. Here are a few great ideas that wont be left behind on the table:

Take-away Buffets or Bars:
Candy or Dessert Buffets continue to be very popular. Gee, I wonder why? Perhaps it is the fact that they allows us to have that "kid in a Candy Store" feeling. It's a great favor option because guests can select and package their own goodies in bags or boxes designed to commemorate the day. Because this is self-serve only the guests who want the candy (and will take the candy home) will get the candy. For a more Adult favor consider other theme "Buffets or Bars" such as Cigar Bar with a professional who hand-rolls cigars with custom design label band displaying the Bride & Grooms name. Also, consider a Coffee Bar. I know a vendor who produces custom roasted gourmet coffee so I suggested to a Client to have some custom printed mugs or small packaged bags of coffee right next to the Coffee station. That way only the coffee lovers would pick one up.

On-the-spot Art:
Smile!! Personal pictures made on the spot are another way to make sure only the guests that want a special keepsake will take one home. Photo booths are not just for Corporate Holiday Parties, Sweet Sixteen or Bat/Bar Mitzvah celebrations - for the last few years Photo booths have gained and still continue to grow ing popularity for wedding receptions of fun and fabulous Brides & Grooms. Usually, the Booths are an all inclusive services. They are set-up with an operator throughout the event and in a matter of about 3 minutes guests walk away with a few photos that usually has the Couples name and date on it. In the same 3 or 5 minutes you can also have a Caricature Artist draw pictures of your guests. Once again, only the guests who want one will receive one.

Double Duty Favors:
Lastly consider favors that may serve two purposes - perhaps acting as decorative elements for the table. For example: I sometimes have Clients who would love to have chargers or elaborate place setting at the tables but find it is outside of the budget. Instead we print Special Cards. Menu cards are placed at every seat with special messages such as a poem or lyrics from the Couples first dance song to enhance the look of each place setting. These cards then serve multiple purposes - decorating the place setting, informing guests of the menu, sharing a sentimental touch and guests can opt to take it with them as a memento.

Finally, select a favor that guests are never meant to take home anyway. This is one of my favorite favors, Donation Favors. Donation Favors are available for Brides, Grooms, and other Party Hosts who want to give a charitable (and tax-deductible) donation in lieu of buying traditional wedding or event favors for their guests. The organization provides them with special favors (personalized cards, elegant bookmarks, etc.) along with information about their donation gift. Usually, the suggested donation is anywhere from $2 to $5 per guest which includes the cost of printing. Best of all, these favors are never a waist of money!

Behind the Design: Theme vs Style

Behind the Design: "Theme vs. Style"

I had a couple of Design Consultations this week which for me are simply a joy because I get opportunity to really get to know my potential Client. Oh, and of course they get to know me too but after viewing a few samples and reviewing my credentials and experience it's really all about them, after all, it's their celebration. I adore learning about their hopes, their dreams, what they love and who they really are. Most importantly I can help them identify their personal style in true design terms.

If fact, I recently had a Bride who was very clear on the "theme" she wanted for her wedding (presenting me with a picture and a two word description) but she was very surprised to find how much time I spent discussing her personal likes and dislikes. Perhaps she thought the process would be like ordering off a menu but we chatting about much more - what she wears, taste in books, even the type of artwork and furniture she leans towards. It was all about identifying her personal "Style" - she was extremely impressed. So, let me share a few basics about the difference between Theme and Style.

Theme:

A Theme explores a general idea or message. This is seen often in Literature, Movies, Television, Theatre, Artwork, Music, etc. The concept of a theme translates well in Event Design because, at it's best, an event venue offers a "stage" for the "scenes" or action of your event to play out - just as it would be conveyed in Books, Movies, etc.

Style:

Style refers to the structure and manner in which content or concepts will be delivered to the audience or user. In story telling, books for example, the author's "style" of writing is very distinct and may or may not appeal to the reader. In visual terms like Fine Art, Interior Design, Graphic Design, Fashion Design and, of course, Event Design style generally falls into a number of very specific defined categories including Modern, Bohemian, etc. Often see in
Visual Art, it's also refers to the "look" achieved through the use of established design techniques and principles such as the minimal use of space and clean lines seen in Contemporary design style.

So, now that we've discussed the difference between "Theme vs. Style" can you think of any designs you've seen that may convey a theme but no consistent style? or a style but not defined theme?

Well, let's see what you've learned. Look at the image below. What is the "Theme" or general concept being portrayed here? How would you describe the "Style" in which the theme is being presented? Eclectic, Contemporary, etc?

How did you do? Did you say a "Beach or Seaside Theme" done in a "Natural Style"? If so, Congratulations!

Style Network Star is coming to Hampton Roads!

Ok, let me start by saying how much I loooove my association - simply some of the absolute best talent and experience in the special events industry in our Region (and beyond) who I'm honored to call my professional colleagues and yes, even friends. Now onto exciting news! Style Network's Donnie Brown of "Whose Wedding is it Anyway?" is coming to Hampton Roads! Own local chapter of the International Special Events Society (ISES) proudly presents "EVENTS UNVEILED - Beyond the Centerpiece" an event showcase featuring event trends, ideas, tips and more from Event Designer Donnie Brown and other special event industry experts.

When?

The Event Showcase will be from

12pm - 9pm

Wednesday, September 29th, 2010

What?

In addition to celebrity Event Designer Donnie Brown, the "Events Unveiled - Beyond the Centerpiece" event will be a fantastic wedding and special events showcase featuring exhibits from a full-range of Event Planners and Professionals as well as tremendous information, creative ideas, industry tends and valuable tips on Invitations, Floral Design, Catering, Lighting Design and even an Ice Sculpture demonstrations.

Where?

Norfolk Waterside Marriott (Norfolk, Virginia)

Norfolk Ballroom

From Cocktails to Concepts, Conversations to Creations... come and join us at this fabulous event! Click here to register today!!

Inside the "Studio-Gallery" - Part II

Events... Art... Design... (with gorgeous Floral Designs generously sprinkled in for good measure) are the major focus of our new Event Design Studio-Gallery. I'm so pleased (ok, down right tickled) to share a glimpse of some of the designs I created for a small gathering of guests at our recent Open House on August 22nd. Did you miss it? No worries... I would love to have you come by to experience more but for now please enjoy!!

Before...
Concept Illustration for a Stylized and Modern garden table centerpiece.
The illustration features orange roses and pink freesia.

Before...

Concept Illustration of a classic garden inspired by the colors, English gardens, and gazebos featured in the the butter and blue linen.

After...

The Lantern Centerpiece complements the lines and imagery of the gazebos depicted in the speciality linen, pulling the garden theme together.

Before Concept Illustration -

A "Floral Sculpture" Design with fresh flowers creating the vase entitled

"Flower Vases"

After - Completed Floral Sculpture

This large concept piece features a "Vase" made of fresh flower presenting greenery and branches adorned with crystals.

Diamonds and butterflies

Ok, I'm more than just smitten... I'm in love!! Truly, head over heals. Don't get me wrong. I love my own precious ring but if you know me (um, and if my design for the company logo didn't give it away) then you know how much I absolutely adore butterflies and this collection of brilliant "Calla Diamond" designs are simply breathtaking.

For Brides (or Grooms preparing to pop the question) with a fluttering flare this ring design may be for you. Created by jewelry design Nelson Ho, the "Calla Collection" was inspired by the playful dance in the flirtation of a butterfly and a Calla Lily. The four uniquely cut diamonds brought together to form a butterfly (as seen in the three rings on the left) or with a large stone with two butterflies clusters on either side of the setting. Also available in earrings and a necklace design - this cut certainly enchants the heart. See more of the Calla Collection designs and find dealers at Callacut.com

Rules for a Hurricane Wedding

As some of you may know, I first became introduced to the wedding planning industry after my own lovely wedding which took place only two days after Hurricane Isabel devastated the Southeastern Virginia in 2003. And while I hope you will never be faced with dealing with 2/3s of your State loosing power and your Governor issuing a "State of Emergency" on your wedding day, with the approach of Hurricane Earl I felt the need to share some key tips for executing a happy hurricane wedding.

If a Hurricane strikes three, two or even one day before your wedding day there is some good news. Usually the weather after such a storm is pristine - clear skies, mild weather... simply beautiful. However, the bad news is depending on the severity of the storm many basic services and resources may be compromised such as roads that are flooded, landscapes that may be littered with fallen trees, and electricity, gas, telecommunications services which may be out for days if not weeks. But, as most of us in the Event Industry know, in many cases the show must go on. And if your Great Aunt Lulu is able to make the trip, the Officiant is able to show up and if your adoring Fiance and you are able to walk down the aisle... "I dos" will be said! Here are just 5 things to keep in mind for your wedding if it happens to be in the path of a Hurricane.


It takes a Village or in this case a "Team":
The most important element of a Brides wedding (besides the Groom of course) will aways be the Team... yes, I said "Team" of people that it will take to make the day possible. Consider two types of Teams for your wedding.

• The Pro Team - These are the "Professional Wedding Vendors" you have hired for your wedding day. They include your Planner/Coordinator, Ceremony Site, Reception Site, Caterer, Baker, Florist, DJ/Band, Rental Companies, Mark-up Artist, and another service providers needed to create the event. This is were all of the detailed research, expense you've invested, and quality of professionals you've selected for your special day will pay off. The most Professional Vendors will have not only have tremendous skill and experience but will have plans, solutions, and capabilities to deal with emergencies. For example: Chariots for Hire, a local Horse drawn carriage company, actually have a tractor trailer available to transport the Horse & Carriage through flooded areas.
  
• The Support Team - These are the friends and family you've chosen to be a part of your very special day. Usually these people were chosen because they are reliable and genuinely care about your happiness and well-being. Also keep in mind that a wedding is a huge commitment for a Bridal Party. From purchasing dresses and accessories to fittings and rehearsals - your Bridal Party is investing a great deal of their own personal time and money to insure you experience the wedding day of your dreams. But their involvement doesn't end there. Often times it is your "Support Team" of friends and family that you will turn to for advice, encouragement, to laugh with, and offer so much emotional support. In the case of an emergency you may have to ask even more of them and so it may be important to let them know you may be calling on them if an emergency hits to help out. Don't just assume they will know that in advance that you'll be calling on them and be mindful that they may have to deal with their own family concerns too - just ask them in advance if they wouldn't mind helping if needed.

Tangible Vision:
During the planning process your taken great care to create a vivid vision of every single detail of your wedding.

• Bridal Binder - Most Brides have their planning materials in a binder - keep it handy!
  
• Share the knowledge - Your Planner/Coordinator should have copies of all of your materials such as contracts, diagrams, contact lists, timeline, etc. If a picture is worth a thousand words then our concept illustrations help to give our Brides a library of information at a glance, creating a quick blueprint of the wedding.
  

Communication:
Can you hear me now?!? Being about to share information, trouble shoot and make last minute changes smoothly and without confusion is going to be key.

• Vendor Communications - Talk to your vendors before the storm hits! Confirm delivery schedules, appointments, and reservations (such as hotel rooms for the night of). Express your concerns and discuss their procedures. If you haven't already done so, talk to your venue about Rain Site options or if they have a generator on site. Also, review the cancellation policies again. Most locations will honor your reception on another date - giving you the option of a "Wedding Celebration Party" on another day following your wedding instead of a "Wedding Reception" on the day of your wedding. This way you are all on the same page.
  
• Point of Contact - If you already have a professional Wedding Planner/Coordinator you place then your are more than likely in good hands. Your Coordinator (and their own team) will be more than able to handle the many moving parts of your wedding day. Just be sure to provide them with the most up-to-date contact information for yourself, your Bridal Party, and your Vendors. If you do not have a Planner be sure to discuss your designated Point of Contact with your Vendors since the odds are you will be far to busy on your wedding day. Many Vendor Contracts only list one authorized Point of Contact so you you have an alternate be sure to not only inform them but see if they require any written authorization forms from you prior to the day of.
  
• Information Network - Your Participants should have phone lists. Your Coordinator and Bridal Party (usually Bridesmaids) should have lists for Bridal Party Members and Vendors.

Logistics:

• Transportation - Make sure you have your transportation plan in place not only for yourself and Bridal Party but for any deliverable that need to be transported during your wedding day such as programs, favors, placecards, etc. If you don't have a plan already in place with your Professional Wedding Planner/Coordinator then you and your Bridal Party will have to take on the task of planning and executing a transportation plan. Note: During power outage Gas Stations may not be accessible so be sure to fill your car with gasoline before a storm hits.
  
• Communication Devices - Try to write down the landline telephone number of each location you will be at that day such as Hotels, Church, Reception Sites, etc. Remember to charge your cell phone and make sure you have a landline phone available. Note: Cable Provider Telephone Service will not work in a power outage however, Analog Phone Service will.
  

Emergency Basics:
Typically your Coordinator will have his/her "Emergency Kit" on site but if you'd like to have a few additional items handy here are a few recommendations.

• Batteries (in a variety of sizes)


• Boom Box/Radio (with CD Player & CDs for ceremony music)


• Bottles of Water (a case of water is a great idea)


• Food (Consider snacks like crackers, energy bars, dried fruit snacks, etc.)


• Toiletries (including Deodorant, Bounces dryer sheets which helps repel bugs, tissues, breath mints, hand-sanitizer, clear nail polish, disposable razor, brush, hair pins/combs, lint brush, candles & matches, safety pins, etc.)

Bonus!
Ok, here's a bonus tip...

Be Positive and cherish the day! - Let go of the negativity and the things you can't control. Forget the old saying, "What can go wrong, will go wrong". Instead, trust in the high-quality Professionals and Vendors you've chosen and "What can go right, will go right". Be Positive, thankful for your support team, and remember that not only is everything thing going to be "ok" but at the end of it all you will sharing one of the most important days of your life with the people who love and mean the most to you. After all, no one lies in bed at the twilight of their life wishing they'd spent more time away from their family and friends. Special events are milestones go by faster than you can imagine so enjoy them!

Inside the "Studio-Gallery"

Drum roll please.... Well, it's official... the Event Design Studio-gallery is open! I can't express how excited I was to host a recent Studio-Gallery Showing, Art Exhibition, and Open House to an intimate gathering of local Event Professionals and Supporters. I'll share some images of the special displays created for the event soon but for now I'd like to share a small inside look into our world.

Client Lounge & Meeting Area

Gallery Area...

My signature painting I painted in the late 90's, entitled...

"Sunrise"

4' x 5'

Acrylic on Canvas

Event & Art Design Studio Area

The Workshop...

Oh, and did I mention our awesome partners? We work with another phenomenal group Artists to create amazing design elements to enhance and add unique flare to an event's design - but more on that later. Would you like to visit the Studio-gallery? Give me a call... I'd be delighted to show you around!