Sunday, June 3, 2012

Behind the Design: Arabian Nights

We were delighted to be brought in for Event & Floral Design Services during Friday nigh's Moroccan theme event in Virginia Beach, Virginia at The Cavalier Hotel Hotel's Beach Club.  The event was hosted by Liberty Tax and managed by our friends at Astro DJ Entertainment and yes, it was EPIC!!  


 Here are a few "UNOFFICIAL PICS"... enjoy!


BEFORE  DESIGN & INSTALLATION WORK




Before - Concept Illustration


After - Final Design 



Before - Concept Illustration

After - Final Design 




Stage Draping and Theme Accents




We were so delighted to be part of a fabulous team of local vendors including: 
Astro Entertainment
AFR Furniture Rental

Stage Right Lighting


We anxiously awaiting to share the "OFFICIAL" pictures from the event which featured DJ, live band, and a simply amazing cirque de-sole style performance be Magical Solutions Inc. ...Cheers!!

Saturday, May 12, 2012

Guest books you'll actually display

Ok, it's your 1st anniversary... do you know where your guest book is?  If you've chosen to have guests sign an old fashion registry-style book as they arrive at your wedding chances are it will end up in a closet or drawer never to see the light of day.  So, what do you do?  Scrap (pardon the pun) the book all together?  Well, maybe not.  It's not only a keepsake of your special day but a log of how attended your wedding and a way for many to share a personal message during the excitement of the day.  The solution?  Think out-side the book!  Here are a few of our favorite "not so traditional" guest book options that you won't forget about and you'll be sure to display.

Have your Photo Booth play double (or even trip) duty.  Yes, not only will guests take pictures which is entertaining and a great souvenir but many Photo booth companies offer a Scrapbooking service in their rental fee. In other words, during the course of event.  Consider having guests sign the   scrapbook as well.

Have an Artist create a Caricature of you and place it into a wide, white mat.  Asks guests to sign message around your picture.  This is actually a fun service we can provide and is perfect for a fun, theme wedding.


We love these Engagement Session Guest Books that many professional photographers are offering now.  


Love Wine?  Love Decorative Accents?  Then you may love this fun guests signing option... a magnum of champagne or wine and a silver marker creates a unique and decorative keepsake.


Another custom option that turns plain old signatures and messages on a piece of paper into a stunning  "one-of-a-kind " piece of Artwork.  Our own partners at Copper Art Inc. take a simple sheet of paper and transform it into an amazing piece of Copper Art!



Saturday, April 21, 2012

Keeping up? Wild week in review

Wow, what an exciting week!  Ok, 3 big things to share... so her goes.

First I'd like to thank all who attended our Open House at our chic, artsy and oh so fun new Downtown Norfolk Design & Consulting Site.  We had such a great turn out that parking became a very hot commodity.  It was such a joy to see so many of my fabulous colleagues, friends, past Clients, new Clients, fans and supporters all in one awesome place!   With great conversation, fanciful designs, intriguing art, yummy treats, delightful music, fun games and more, a fun time was had by all.  What a pleasure to have the opportunity to host this event with our friends at DCPG Photography and the 757 Creative Space.  Special thanks to our friends and participating Vendor-Partners Carolina Cupcakery, Terebinth Pastier & Bistro, Waterford Event Rentals (Chair covers) and Distinctive Event Rentals (Chiavari Chairs). 

Here are a few "UNOFFICIAL, Pre-event pics" ... enjoy!


















Second, those how attend the event, "Like" us on Facebook and follow-up on Twitter were the 1st to have a "Hollywood Moment"!  We gave away 10 free passes to an ADVANCED SCREENING of Universal Studio's new comedy, "The Five-Year Engagement".  The film, set to be released in theaters on Friday, April 27th., was shown to an exclusive group this past Thursday, April 19th at 7:30pm at the Regal MacArthur Center 18.  Vivid Expressions LLC offered the passes on a 1st come, 1st served basis but to our fans and followers and we were excited to give them a laugh in the middle of their week.  Yep, it pays to keep up with us! 


Finally, and this is just a little something I just had to share.  Well, I arrived at the office today and found a crew filming in our alley... is that a zombie I see coming out of that burnt out car frame?  Certainly not event or wedding related (although I know someone will eventually request a zombie wedding) but it does speak to the imagination of all of us who are dedicated to using professional Art stechniques and creative processes to transform fantasy and ideas into reality.  Yep, just another creative day at Art of Creative Celebrations - Vivid Expressions LLC


Have a fantastic weekend!



Have questions or just want to say "hi"... come by and visit at www.vividexpressions.com... cheers!

Saturday, April 14, 2012

Come out and play!


 
What a beautiful day!!  Oh, it feels like Spring and I'm almost tempted to put up my winter clothes.  The warm air, freshly budding trees, lush green everywhere you look - it's a the perfect time to celebrate the beginning of "Event Season".  And we want you to celebrate with us! 

We are inviting one and all to join us as Vivid Expressions LLC and our neighbors at DCPG Photography & Design host an evening of festive food, fun and fanciful cheer at our new Norfolk Design & Consulting Site.  Yes, it's on a week night but what better way to shake off long day at work and get ready for a fabulous weekend than with:

   * Enchanting Event & Floral Design Inspirations from Vivid Expressions
   * Fab and funky Photo Booth fun from DCPG Photography
   * Indulgent in Tastes and Treats from Carolina Cupcakery and Terebinth
   * Original works of Fine Art from professionally managed gallery
   * Playing Classic Arcade Games and Pool table, and much more

To register and get directions please visit http://vividexpressions-dcpg.eventbrite.com/

We look forward to seeing you then... cheers!!

Monday, March 26, 2012

Fabulous Fun & Fun with Terebinth & Lizzi London

What fun!!  This weekend we had a wonderful time participating in an event at "Terebinth, A Sweet Retreat" in Virginia as they hosted the simply delightful design "Lizzi London".  Yes, her real name London... yes, she is from London... and yes, this fabulous presentation of her newest collection was part of Terebinth's Pre-Prom Party.  Many of the styles ranged from edgy to sophisticated to avant guarde fantasy.  

It was our pleasure to create Runway Decor, Event Staging, and Floral Designs for the event.  Guests of the event were entertained prior to the fashion show with our signature "On-the-spot" Event Caricature Services (drawn in just 3 minutes) and by other participating vendors such as Shutter Booth Photo Booth.  Courious?  Take a sneak peek inside Saturday's event with these "Unofficial pics"... enjoy!!

Here's a little "Fun".... and yep, this guest loooooved her Caricature as much as we looooved drawing it. 

 
Here's a little "Fabulous".... We loved designing, staging and creating these fanciful room-scape almost as fabulous as Lizzi London's . 

Monday, March 19, 2012

Smitten! Actual "Artful" Artificial Accents

Ok, I admit it, for the most part I am not the biggest fan of "silk flowers" in bouquets.  Occasionally, I'm asked if silk flowers would be less expensive than fresh flowers - the truth is depending on a number of factors the cost is pretty much the same. Oh don't get me wrong, I know there are some cases where they are a the best fit for a Client that absolutely adores a particular type of flower but has allergies and using other similar flowers just wont do.  Here's the issue, "Silk Flowers" typically don't just fine silk.  I find that most silk flower use materials that have trouble capturing the truly beauty and personality of fresh flowers.

Now, there are more "high-quality" silk flowers available but they tend to offer less options in terms of color and flower variety and in the end they will cost more than using fresh in Wedding & Event Floral Designs.  But there's always exceptions to the rule and this is one!  Emici Bridal offers the most exquisite Bridal Accessories.  I am smitten, absolutely smitten with these artfully done headpieces, bouquets, Ring Bearer Pillows and more.  These designs work well because that are not "flowers made out of silk" (or other material) but they use quality materials to craft an interpretation of flowers - they aren't trying to fool anyone or be something they are not.  They embrace, elevate the silk chiffon, organza, freshwater pearl, Swarovski crystal beading and even feathers to create an Artistic representation of blossoming flowers like the ever popular peony.  Here are just a few examples that I completely swoon over... enjoy!!








Monday, March 12, 2012

Coming to a theater near you!

Vivid Expressions LLC is excited to share that we will be partnering with historic and simply stunning venue The Granby Theater!

We will not only be providing In-house Wedding Design & Consulting Services but we are thrilled to be in the planning stages for an epic OpenHouse with Vivid Expressions LLC & The Granby Theater.  This not to be missed event will be designed to show you how we can turn your wedding into a beautiful picturesque "Love Story, starring you"!  Please keep posted as we are welcoming all BRIDES, GROOMS, Wedding Vendors to come celebrate the beauty of our spectacular venue!





Wednesday, March 7, 2012

Back to the drawing board!

Last night we had the pleasure of giving back just a little.  "Taste of Hampton Roads" is an annual event which benefits the Foodbank of Hampton Roads.  No, we didn't do elaborate planning or even design work but we were delighted to help one of the fabulous culinary participants and our fantastic friends at Terebinth.  I had the pleasure of doing a number of caricatures some who visited the "Terebinth, A Sweet Retreat".  Terebinth created a truly enchanting booth display and as an added treat we offers a number of free, on-the-spot caricatures to those who visited the their booth.  I was overjoyed by all the guests who raved with the creation of each and every drawing.

Miss United States 2011 stopped by last night so I could draw her a caricature at "Taste of Hampton Roads"... not bad for a 3 minute sketch ;)


Sunday, March 4, 2012

Forgive me but just had to share...

Well, this year we felt the need to change things around a little.  First with a subtle make-over of our logo, then offering a new, chic consulting location in Norfolk and now this... a delightful little commercial!  I'm so excited to share with you so please, feel free to let me know what you think... enjoy!


Tuesday, February 21, 2012

Sweet Fun from this Sunday!

What a delight it was to create this custom Candy Buffet Design for our friends at MorLina Events for their Client and Vendor Appreciation Party on Sunday.  

The focal point of the display was tall a silver trumpet vase with a design of stunning white branches adorned with dozens of shimmering hanging crystals.  The event was a Damask Theme in their company colors of Black, White, and Pink which was reflected in one of our Fuchsia Pink Damask Pattern Table-runner atop crisp, black linen.  The Damask pattern was also repeated in the striking Damask Favor boxes we provided for each guest used to fill with the sweet selection of candies.  We'd like to also thank our friends at Oak Moon Photography for these lovely images below... enjoy!







Tuesday, February 14, 2012

Behind the Design: Monochromatic & the color of love!

Happy Valentine's Day!  You wrapped up in the flurry of flowers, candy, cards and lots of creative little surprises?  As the worlds comes awash in "Red & White" I can't help but stop and share a  little Professional design "Color Theory 101" with you.  

I love helping Clients explore, discover, and create the most visually enhancing color scheme for their event.  When Brides (and Grooms) or event hosts come to me and say, "our colors are _____ and White" I often like to find how and why they've chosen those colors.  This often a wonderful opportunity to hold a quick color class and explaining they've really only chosen one color.  Yep, a Color and a Neutral - technically White isn't exactly "a color" it's actually a Neutral like black, gray, and brown. Counting a neutral color is kind like counting the green stem of a flower as a color in a bouquet or arrangement.  Generally speaking you can certainly use a neutral if you'd like to but in a color scheme "White" and other neutrals really don't count.  

But wait, you love the color "____".  If you'd like to focus on one main color for your event that's great!  There is a color harmony (method of selecting and using color) that will work perfectly - it's call Monochromatic.  A monochromatic color scheme consist of a Hue (color) displayed in varying Shades (a darker version of the hue) and/or Tints (a lighter version of the hue) in a design. Consider a Monochromatic color scheme with the lightest version of the color instead of plain white to create richness in the design.

Here are a few simply examples of a "Red Monochromatic Color Scheme (in hues of Cotton Candy Pink, Candy Apple Red, and Burgundy Wine)... enjoy!!





Saturday, February 4, 2012

What inspires you?

I love it when Clients want to design their event around a theme.  It gives us both an opportunity to free our imaginations and create the best, most cohesive, design that reflects the theme featuring their style.  For me, my first task is not to ask, "what's your theme".  Instead, my task is to really discover "What inspires you?"  What does the theme mean to them and how do they want to convey it?  Will it be subtly placed elements and modest details throughout the event or perhaps bold, sweeping visual statements throughout room(s).  In other words...  How is the best way to present the elements that will represent the theme?

Wedding planning and design can be bit overwhelming for some Clients.  When you consider there are many different Art & Design styles, techniques, and principles as well as thousands of images and ideas offered by magazines and websites - the "Theme" wedding seems like a easy way to approach the process.  Eventually some Brides start to think, "Well, I can walk into any Party Supply Store and find tons and tons of theme oriented decorations".  Of course, the question then becomes... do you really want your "one-of-a-kind" special day to look like it was pre-ordered from a "Party Supply Store?"

Don't feel as though you have to recycle the same old ideas and images you (and everyone else) has seen before.  Remember, "Design Inspiration" can come from the simplest of images, stories, or trinkets.  From an old childhood swing on a tree beside a blossoming meadow to a chic, modern city skyline to shimmering antique crystal chandelier and everything in between... any thing, person, sight, sound, texture, flavor or fragrance can inspire. Here are 3 things to consider when you start to explore an event or wedding theme.

1.) Don't be literal! 
I think that many couples fall into, what I like to call, "the symbol trap".  This is were they pick a few generic theme symbols and scatter them around the room or on a few tables.  The effect often resluts  in an unpolished, disjointed, and bland look.  The first step to creating a unique and personalized theme event is not to be too literal.  Sure, you are going to have certain commonly used ideas, elements or symbols to represent your theme but you don't want them to be too cliche.  For example, if you're considering a Valentine's Day theme wedding, then try to avoid cliches elements like a Red & White color schemes, Hearts, Rose Petals, etc.  Instead, look more into what the theme means to you and how it can be interpreted to make it your own.  Instead of "Red & White" color scheme consider using a combination of richer shade of Red like Burgundy along with lighter Candy Apple Red.  Also, instead of White use an analogous colors like Plum, Wine, and Aubergine (Eggplant).  Instead of "Hearts" perhaps think about other symbols that are more personal to you like Lockets, elements from Classic Literature, your favorite poems, etc.

2.) Rinse... 
Keep your concept clean and simple.  It can be easy to get swept away in dozens of symbols, ideas, and images that could represent the "theme" of your event.  The problem is you want to convey a clear idea to your guests and too many elements will make the theme messy and cluttered.  Keep the symbols, colors, etc that will represent your theme to a minimum, no more than 3 key symbols.  Now those 1 to 3 symbols you're chosen to represent your theme can be presented in many different ways.  It could be small simple details like the colors and texture of you table linens, napkins and menu cards or it could be huge visual statements such as designer room lighting services, ceiling draping, and large displays elements.   

3.) ... and Repeat
Ok, now although you want your event to be unique, not every cliche is bad.  There are certainly some symbols that are tasteful and down right classic...especially if they are used well.  There are some timeless elements like Candles that can be incorporated into many events in a range of forms like rustic lanterns, elegant candelabras, clusters of pillar candles, floating candles is modern-style vases, and so on.  Even a flower as sweet and simple as a daisy can take on a dramatic tone when used in volume like dozens and dozens of daisy heads lining the center of a long table like a runner.  Daisies may also adorn dozens and dozens of ribbons suspended about the cake table or simply used in every aspect of the event from the "Save the Date" card , Menu cards and on each table at place setting - the key is to be consistent and repeat it throughout the entire event.

Now there are many other ways to define and refine your theme and wedding or event vision but this should be a great start to get inspired... Cheers!

Wednesday, February 1, 2012

Peacock and Purple Project - Unofficial Pics

Happy February!  Starting this month off by sharing a few "Unofficial" Pics from a very recent project.  We were delighted to be brought in by our Friends at Antonia Christianson Events to create a fun, fanciful and fabulous centerpiece for an oh so sweet and stylish surprise marriage proposal.  Oh and one little side note:  Nope, those aren't roses in the incorporated into the arrangement - there's miniature fresh cabbages!  A whimsical, fun and beautiful twist to a classic design.  Enjoy!

BEFORE: Concept Drawing 


AFTER: Design




Monday, January 2, 2012

Planning Essentials: You're Engaged... Now what?

Congratulations to all the lovely couples who became engaged over the Holidays or New Years Eve!! 


What an exciting time this is for you!  And what great timing.  January, with it's spirit of fresh renewal is the perfect time to start the Wedding Planning Process.  The fact that the majority of engagements (over 30%) occur during the Holiday Season doesn't hurt either.  So, where do you begin?  Here are 3 helpful steps to getting started:


Step 1: "...that day's gonna be a Good Day!"
Why is selecting a date sooo important?  Because it will help you start the process of researching and scheduling, checking Wedding Ceremony & Reception site (or Venues) and Vendor availability, and placing deposits to reserve that perfect location or desired vendor services.  Remember, some vendors (especially highly sought after ones) book quickly or only offer limited availability so it's important to start calling to check on specific dates.  Also, many Venues offer differing prices depending on the season, time of day, and day of the week.  Start selecting a date by picking a couple of potential dates or a timeframe (such as the last two weeks of May) for your wedding day.  Then look at your schedule, the schedule of some of the important guests (like parents, best friends, etc.), Holiday's or other special events that may conflict with your big day.  After all, you want your special day to stand out and you don't want to compete with Cousin Steve's Graduation.  Then... choose your date!  


TIP: Not sure if you can snag your dream Venue?  Ask about Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays availability and pricing which often book for less than the more popular Saturdays. 


Step 2: Does Size Matter?

Oh yes it does.  Not only will the size of your wedding effect the protocols, mood, tone, and feeling of the ceremony and celebration but it will also effect the cost and resources you'll need to create it. So close your eyes and ask yourself, will it be an intimate affair with 60 guests or do you envision a tremendous affair with 200, 300 or more?  


Of course, the number of Wedding Party Participates (or Attendants) and wedding guests will vary throughout the planning process but the number of guests will have a direct influence on everything from finding Venue(s) to accommodate the group, to cost of Bridal Party Flowers (Bouquets, Boutonnieres, Corsages, etc.), to the catering cost per person, the number of reception and cocktail hour table linens and decorations, and so on.  Just keep it simple and ask yourself, would you like a Small Wedding (less than 100), Medium-size Wedding (about 100 - 200), or a Large Wedding (greater than 250) and go from there.



Step 3: Be at home with your range

Most "Brides and Grooms-to-be" are new to the wedding industry and are not familiar with the various product costs, service fees, and other expenses that eventually add up to the total cost of a wedding.  So, how much does the average wedding cost?  According to recent data the average wedding in the United States in 2011 costed approximately $26,500 (Some areas do vary, for example in Virginia the average is slightly higher with average at $29,000).  Yes, even in this economy... Surprised?  The resources, products, and service providers involved in the production of a wedding experience inflation just like any other industry.  


Sure, there will always be people out there who are willing to do a poorer job for a lower price and as a result take advantage of Brides & Grooms during there once in a lifetime event... that's the bad news.  Now, here's the good news!  Most reputable Wedding Professionals will be able to work with you to help you understand your budget, offer options, and assist you in creating a simply wonderful event.  


That's why it so extremely important to have a general but realistic budget range in mind.  I use the term "Budget Range" because as you enhance or scale back on different aspects of your wedding to focus on what is important to you and what you really don't want the budget itself will range.  Sit down and truly think about a "budget range" that features a low-end and a high-end number that you'll spend on your wedding.  Keep in mind, the budget will fluctuate as the type, size, style, and details of your wedding takes form.  Think about the aspects of your wedding that are important to you, what you are willing to be flexible on, and what you will not compromise on.  Remember, giving yourself a "budget range" to work with will be one of the most essential parts in the planning process.


TIP: Relay on your Pro!  When you hire Wedding Professionals you hire all of their knowledge, experience, and resources with special events.  Most Wedding Pros such as Planners/Consultants or Designers (learn the difference between Wedding Coordinator and Designer in our earlier posts "... and you do what?"  or "Why Wedding Flowers cost so much" here), Caterers, and so on will help you keep on track and work within your budget... trust them!



What's next?
Once you've established these very general guidelines for your wedding (The Date, The Budget Range, and The Size) you can start the basic research to begin the wedding planning process.  As I mentioned before, January is the ideal time to start planning our wedding, in fact, January through March is known in the wedding industry as "Bridal Shows and Booking Season".  


Take the next few days to visit:
  1. Bridal Shows for great wedding ideas
  2. Pick up established Bridal Magazines and visit reliable Wedding Websites (including local ones)
  3. Look for and register to visit Venue and Vendor Open Houses
  4. Make the time to Schedule Consultations to meet with Wedding Professionals.
Be prepared to have...
  • your Binder or Notepad to keep your notes and pictures
  • your Calendar to schedule appointments on the spot (Initial Consultations are usually free)
  • your checkbook or credit card to hold your wedding date with a deposit (Vendors/Venues can book up fast)


Once again, congratulations and if you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask... Happy Planning!


Blessed wishes,
Janel and your friends at Vivid Expressions LLC