A "not so" Secret Garden in Downtown Norfolk

There's no secret that I love theme and culturally influenced event designs and transporting guests into an entirely different world through a dynamic visual experience. Sometimes creating the theme requires transforming an event space into an environment that reflects the theme but sometimes there are environments that can transform the event. I had the pleasure of experiencing one of these locations last night at an event at the Pagoda Tea House and Oriental Gardens in Norfolk, Virginia.

Nestled in the heart of Downtown Norfolk, overlooking the simmering waterfront of the Elizabeth Rive is an exotic Asian escape. This beautiful landmark building and lavish oriental garden offers an incredible backdrop for any event - especially weddings. The landmark Marine Observation Tower turned stunning restaurant, dinning facility, and gallery is truly unique.

The venue is home to a breathtaking Oriental Garden featuring the state's largest Koi pond, tranquil Asian-inspired sculptures and landscaping, and over 130 species of plants, trees and flowers including lotus flowers, floating water lilies, Bamboo, Flowering Plum and Japanese Black Pine - perfect for an enchanting wedding. In addition, the facility offers a large outdoor brick patio event space overlooking the Elizabeth River (which may be tented), giving event planners and event designers ample room to create an exceptional waterfront experience for guests.

Although the on-site restaurant has a spectacular Asian-theme menu they are also excited to offer other varied and creative catering options. In fact, at last night's event I enjoyed a delightful four course food and wine tasting - pairing a different wine with each course. The evening started with a scrumptious Mango and King Crab Spring Roll paired with a crisp, light Riesling and ended with a delicate Banana Mouse and surprising sparkling Saki.

To learn more about catering and reserving the Pagoda Garden, Tea House and Gallery for your special event call 757-623-1949... and please tell them Janel at Vivid Expressions sent you!

Trend Forcast: Let's do the Time Worp again!

Thanks to the tremendous popularity of contemporary, smooth crooners like Michael Buble, John Legand, and of course Harry Connick Jr. and swell shows like "Mad Men" and the visually stunning techni-color (although now canceled) "Pushing Daisies" the vintage look of the 1950's and 60's is rapidly capturing the imaginations of Brides, Party Hosts and Event Designers. For the Bridal Couple who lean towards an eclectic, classic, or glamorous style consider introducing vintage themes and elements into the design of your special day.

Classic Car

Arrive in style! A Chauffeur driven classic car not only sets a vintage tone for a Bride and Groom's arrival but offers an idea photo op for Bridal pictures.

Cigar Bar

Grooms, Groomsmen and other guests will feel like Franky, Dean, and the rest of the "Rat pack"as they enjoy hand-rolled cigars. Oh, and don't be surprised if the Ladies and even the non-smokers want to get in on the act by taking them home as mementos of the evening.

Fab "Photo" Favors

The Photo Booth has been making an apearance at reception for months now and will continue to be a funky feature and favor for the vintage theme events. Freeze Frame, a Photo Booth company in Richmond, Virginia, travels throughout the state of Virginia (and beyond) to set-up their fun Photo Booths. The Booths can be programed with the Bridal Couple's names, date and/or other special logos to share a special message with those attending the event. Guests will have a blast taking pictures and (of course) taking those pictures home!

Stay posted for more ideas on identifying styles, themes, and ways to incorporate them into your event.

Creative Collaborations: From Event Art to Ice Art

I love having the chance to work with other creative people. As a Fine Artist and Event Designer I find that collaborating with other event professionals is a fabulous way to become inspired while inspiring others with new ideas and perspectives. I've had the pleasure of recently doing just that.

For years Ice Art Inc in Virginia Beach, Virginia has established itself as the Hampton Roads area's premier Ice Sculpture company. Oh, but these aren't you're standard ole' swan sculptures. They can truly create anything you can imagine. From dramatically lit statues to entire cocktail bars made out of ice! They are a joy to work with and Steve Latham's talent in this craft is simply amazing. He can easily convert my custom illustrations into stunning works of "ice art". Want an example? Check out a recent example of a creative collaboration.

Compare my concept illustration...

...to the completed work.

This is only the beginning! Vivid Expressions LLC finds exceptional delight in collaborating with them and incorporating these unique pieces of art into our event designs and packages. Can't wait to work with them again on more weddings and special events.

Cheers!

Tablescape Design - Blue Garden

Based on a watercolor illustration I created only days earlier I recently created a stunning table in hues of blue, violet, and green.

The Centerpiece was a statuesque design conveying a fluid vertical line. A fresh, fragrant runner was made from Mums, Roses, Hydrangea, and Iris.

Hydrangeas adorned with our shimmering mascot, the butterfly, embellish each chic, sleek "Ice" Lucite Ballroom chair.

Each place setting was carefully dressed with a Cobalt Blue Charger and Flower Folded Napkin with a radiant center.

Please let me know what you think of this design.

Cheers!

Janel B. Keen

Want to see more? Visit our Event Art and Design Gallery! http://www.vividexpressions.com/

Event Pros & Partners: Williamsburg Wedding Design

One of the things I love about this industry is the opportunity to meet and work with people who are professional, fun, talented and a joy to be around. Well, I recently had the pleasure of "doing coffee" with just such a person.

For several years now Shayna Walker, of "Williamsburg Wedding Design", has used her expertise in the hospitality industry to establish herself as one of the Williamsburg area's premiere Wedding Planners. As someone who grow up in the tourism industry myself (working for the state of Virginia for the Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation as a teen) I can certainly understand the unique challenges she faces. Shayna uses her ability to develop relationships with historic venues, understanding their needs and restrictions to determine the best solutions for her Clients. Shayna is a delight to chat with and has a profound talent for the intricacy involved in the logistical aspects of wedding planning and coordinating.

The Colonial Williamsurg area is one of America's top travel destinations - welcoming thousands of visitors from across the world visit Williamsburg, Virginia year round. Unlike some tourist destinations, which are seasonal and may close during certain times of the year, Williamsburg transforms with each season. From blossoming springs to candlelit holiday celebrations, the area offers breathtaking historic, elegance and beautiful venues that will sweep Brides, Grooms, and their guests away to a place of old world romance.

During our lunch, Shayna shared some very exciting news with me. First, "Williamsburg Wedding Design" will soon evolve to offer comprehensive Destinations Weddings Management for the Williamsburg area. The company's services will cater to Brides and Grooms who wish to travel to (and host) a splendid wedding experience in Colonial Williamsburg.

Secondly, I'm delighted that Shayna would like to invite Art of Creative Celebrations - Vivid Expressions LLC and I to participate in creating fantastic wedding designs for their Clients. I'm thrilled to be able to provide our exquisite custom drawn event design illustrations, custom designed decor, floral designs, and more for her Clients. From an Event Designer's perspective, I looking forward to collaborating with Shayna to create many wonderful weddings in Williamsburg, Virginia!

To learn how Shayna and her team can help you plan your dream Williamsburg wedding please visit them at http://www.williamsburgweddingdesign.com/

Oh, and don't forget to tell her Janel said "Hi"!

Top 5 Wedding Day Emergency Kit Must Haves

Have you ever heard the old Cub Scout motto, "Be prepared". Now, I've never been a Cub or a Scout but as a coordinator I, like most professional coordinators, come to a wedding armed with an emergency kit. My kit, of course, is a collection of products and tools I find essential for dealing with any unexpected situations that pop up and turning potential issues into achievements. Usually, every kit is different because every kit should have the tools the professional feels work best for them. Would you like a peek into my kit? I'll forgo my funky favorite items (i.e.: duct tape, staple gun, etc.) but I will share my top 5 list of "must haves" for a Bride's big day:

Clean & Clear Oil Absorbing Sheets

It's moments before you walk down the aisle. The dress - gorgeous, hair - perfect, and the make-up is flawless. You are a stunning, vision to behold and you should remain so the entire day. Unfortunately, especially for Bride's with oily skin, that may not be so easy as it sounds. Every Bride should glow on her special day but perspiration could destroy beautiful make-up and a shinny face doesn't take the best picture. I keep Oil Absorbing Sheets by Clean & Clear close by so the Bride may discretely blot the her face before pictures and throughout the event.

Tide to go

Is your wedding gown White, Ivory, Cream, or even Blush? Most Brides dream of the perfect dress however, one drop of soda or wine could taint the most breathtaking gown. If find the small "Tide to Go" minis easy to carry. I keep them and a small hand towel on hand just in case wedding cake finds it's way to the train of the gown.

Bounce Dryer Sheets

O.k., I know it sounds funny but yes, I keep Bounce Dryer sheets in my emergency kit. And no, I don't plan on doing laundry during the reception but for outdoor weddings these sheets are great. Rub a sheet over a gown or tuxedo, stuff a sheet in a back pocket, or nestle one discretely in your undergarment. The dryer sheet will repel insects without the smell of bug sprays or messiness of lotions that stain.

Scotch Lint Mini Rollers

Like the song said, "Every Girl's crazy 'bout a sharp dressed man". I admit, I love the way men look in a well made and fitted tuxedo. Of course, nothing takes away from that look than dozens of little white spots on a crisp, dark jacket. It only takes a few seconds and a couple of quick swipes with the Scotch Lint Roller to give the Groom his swagger back.

Colgate Wisps

"You may now kiss the Bride!" Breath mints are great to refresh your breath during the day but after a meal a quick brush may be in order. From the first kiss as 'Husband and Wife' to the first kiss after the reception dinner I've discovered that Colgate Wisps are a handy little item to quickly keeping my Client's teeth bright and breath fresh... smooches!

O.k., that's enough... can't give away all my secrets.

Cheers!

Why the Dancing Wedding Precession (entrance) was a hit!

If you haven't seen it, don't worry you will. Check your inbox at work and your emails from your family or friends - odds are someone has forwarded it to you... "JK Wedding Entrance" video. Almost overnight the video (which can be found on YouTube.com) has become a worldwide hit! This video featured an ultra energetic Bridal party turning the aisle at a wedding into a not so impromptu dance floor as they performed a semi-choreographed routine down the aisle to Chris Brown's "Forever". The video of the precession has even made to mainstream news and media outlets like Today on NBC.




So why has this wedding processional video created fans all over the Globe? I believe it boils down to one idea... we are sick and tired of bad news and people like feeling good! Weddings, by their very nature, are usually joyous occasions designed to nurture feelings of a new beginning, care-free fun, of hope, reassurance, and of course love. These themes are no only showcased in the video but seem to be amplified by the participates (including the wedding guests who immediately join into on the fun).



Oh, don't get me wrong, there is something timeless, romantic, and enduring about Cannon in D major playing softly in the distance to herald the coming of the Bride but we seem to live in a time when we are all bombarded by News Casters and Politicians pouring out an endless stream of economic statistics that seem to focus on the worst. Most of us have "economy information overload" and as we impatiently (very impatiently) try to ride-out the global changes there is something up-lifting about seeing people having so much unrestrained fun. Family and friends letting go and sharing in the unbridled gleefulness of the moment, of the day, and having fun - it's simply infectious. No wonder the video has been seen well over 6 million times in the short 6 days it's been posted.



I've seen it at least 3 times myself and I have to admit, I still get a smile every time I see the Bride dancing down the aisle at the end of the video; bouquet held high in the air, meeting her Groom midway, and the two of them two-stepping their way to the Officiant. The lesson: Let's stop worrying so much about life's (and the economy's) temporary status. Things are going to get better... there's hope, comfort, and great times to be had right now so enjoy love, family, friends, freedom, and life with reckless abandon!


Cheers and blessed wishes!












Janel B. Keen
CEO & Artistic Director