Friday, December 31, 2010

Happy New Year!!

As we end the 2010 year….2011 is full of great new ideas and trends on weddings and all types of events. We look forward to providing you with great information and inspirations for all your planning needs in 2011.

Please feel free to send us an email on any topic that you would like us to cover to info@prestigiousoccasions.com.

Have a safe, fun, and wonderful 2011!

Happy Planning!

Sunday, December 26, 2010

Centerpieces......be Creative



There are so many options when it comes down to selecting or creating centerpieces.
This is a simple post just to share a few ideas with you. Be creative whether you are planning to DIY or go to the florist. Your centerpieces should be a complement to the details of event.

Here are some inspirations…enjoy!
















Thursday, December 16, 2010

Selecting your Wedding Cake





With the many options and factors of selecting a cake which includes the shapes, sizes, style, flavor, icing selection and more it can be a little overwhelming to make a decision. Here are a few tips before you go out to the bakery. As you see above you can use your favorite blouse to create your cake!

A. Create a cake inspiration document electronically or in print from magazines, pictures online and other resources.
B. Include great pictures from other bakeries even if they are many states away, a bakery can duplicate most cakes if there is a cake that you must have.
C. Know the flavors that your bakery offers, review their flavors online and decide what your top three flavors will be that you would like to taste first then move on from there.
D. When you taste cake know what beverage will work best for you to cleanse your palette and get an accurate taste of the cakes.
E. How many guests are you planning on feeding cake to? Not everyone eats wedding cake and also keep in mind that you don’t want to run out of cake.
F. If you are planning on having assorted desserts you can have a little less cake and have the cake sliced thinner.



These are just a few tips that can help you with your decision on your wedding cake. Use the pictures enclosed to start your inspiration folder.

Your wedding cake should be a conversation piece and also function as your reception decor.

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Wedding Ceremony Altar Style







I am currently working with a bride that has a few photography concerns for her ceremony. Her church is beautiful; however the pictures that we have seen during the ceremony are not the best backgrounds and will not complement her colors well. So as an alternative to dress up the ceremony and have a great backdrop for her pictures we decided to move forward with a Chuppah (Jewish tradition) which may also be known as a canopy. The side that will be to the back of the pastor will be hanging to have a clean crisp look in the pictures.

With so many choices available in colors, styles, fabrics, etc. there are countless ways you can create or design your altar.

Here are a few beautiful styles that we will be using and our inspiration and/or possibly choosing from.


Happy Planning!

Thursday, November 18, 2010

Bridal Shower Games

Are to thinking about an upcoming bridal shower and the games that you would like to play? Here are a few ideas to have the guests actively involved and keep the blushing bride to be excited.

Advise for the Bride
Bridal Shower GameCreate a beautiful bouquet of advice for the bride. The hostess will need construction paper, pipe cleaners, and glue. Cut out heart and flower shapes and glue them to the pipe cleaners. They should resemble a flower attached to it's stem. They can be arranged in bouquets on the table or handed out to guests as they arrive. Tell the guests to write advice for the bride on the paper cut outs and place them in a vase. When all flowers and hearts have been placed in the vase, have the bride read them aloud. This will make a great keepsake for the bride.

What the Bride Says
As the bride opens each gift, have someone write down what she says (without her knowing). After all the gifts are opened, have the person read her comments back. These are the bride's words to describe her wedding night. (Make sure your guests can handle this one!)

Spice of Life
Get as many spices together as you want and place them in unmarked, but numbered jars. Pass each one around the room and have each guest write down what she thinks it is. At the end of the game, award the one with the most correct answers the collection of spices. (Be sure to include the corresponding list!)

Mom's Advice
Have each guest tell the best and worst advice they received from their mother or grandmother. Award a prize to the person who gives the best advice and a booby prize to the worst advice received!

Clothespin Game
As each guest arrives, clip a clothespin to her clothing. If someone hears another person saying the word "bride", she gets to take her clothespin. The player with the most "pins" at the end of the shower gets a prize.

What is the Bride Wearing?
Let the bride know ahead of time. After everyone has visited for a while, the bride quietly leaves the room and listens from a spot where the guests cannot see her. Then ask the guests about what she is wearing. Is her hair up or down? Color of shoes? Outfit color? Ask as many questions as you can think of...then start asking about the bride's favorite color, TV show, food. Go around the room taking turns answering. Everyone who has not missed an answer at the end wins a prize.

Who am I?
This one is an easy way to get everyone talking to one another. Ahead of time, write down the names of famous people on index cards - singers, celebrity, political figures, authors. As each guest arrives, pin the identity to their back without them knowing the name. Guests find out who they are by asking others YES or NO questions. Depending on the group of people, you may or may not also decide to put a limit on the number of questions that can be asked to one person consecutively. Depending on how long it takes, you can opt for first prize only or extend out to second and third. If you want everyone to get a chance to figure it out, you may also give out a prize to the last person.

Happy Wishes
Provide envelopes and index cards. Have the guests write an event, holiday, or moment in the couple's life together. On the index card, write a happy thought or useful piece of advice. On the outside of the envelope, write the occasion that the bride should open the note. Examples might be wedding night, first anniversary, first child, first fight, first house.

Word Scramble
Provide a list of scrambled words that are common with a wedding ceremony and reception. Use words such as bride, groom, gifts, cake, flowers, ring. (dirbe, romog,tigfs,kace,woferls,girn) The first person finished gets a prize. (If no one finished within 10 to 15 minutes, award the prize to the person with the most right answers.)

You can also use the same or similar games for a baby shower.

Happy Planning!

Monday, November 15, 2010

You Can't Do It All!


The endless to-do-list that you review and add items to daily…… needs to be revised and become a strategic plan on a calendar. I know that sometimes you may think if you don’t do it…it won’t be done right!

Don’t increase your stress levels. Evaluate if you have the time, dedication, and the discipline to stick to your plans and execute your vision. If you must interview your friends and family members to determine who is a good fit for your “team” as you would with a vendor….then do so. When you determine who is going to help you just make sure that they understand your vision and that you can work well together for the ultimate results.

For those whom are working on a tight budget and relying on extra hands to help out with the decorations, be sure to set up one table as an example of what the table should look like and your team can follow behind you to set the rest. The key to utilizing your volunteers that would like to truly help you is communication. Be sure to share your vision and intentions with everyone that is working with you.

Don't plan your own party....get help.

Be a guest at your own event.



Happy Planning!

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Twobirds Bridesmaid Dresses- 1 Dress 15 Styles!



Did a little birdie tell you about Twobirds?

Twobirds Bridesmaids is a company that offers a wonderful alternative to a stylish bridesmaid dress that you can wear on many occasions after the wedding!

Versatility is here!

Bridesmaids no longer have to worry about spending $100-$350 on their dresses for the bridal boutique and then consider the alterations. The stylish dresses you see posted here will allow the dress to be converted and worn 15 different ways!
The sizes offered are easily flattering for sizes between 0-24 and over 18 different colors.






Photos Courtesy of TwoBirds Bridesmaids
Website: www.twobirdsbridesmaid.com

Monday, October 18, 2010

It's not too early for Seating Charts!






Good News!! It’s not too early to start your floor plan and seating chart!!

When you send out your invitations you can create the floor plan at the same time. List the table number and the guests that you would like to sit at that particular table. As the RSVP’s come back in you can highlight the guest as attending. Once the RSVP deadline has come to a close you are able to shift around your guests if necessary to eliminate and add additional tables.

Many couples get overwhelm with the table seating, address this at an early stage and it will be less for you to worry about in the end. To also make this task easier for you, print the escort cards a week before the wedding and organize them in alphabetical order. If you are using and seating chart in alphabetical order by last name, this can also be printed and framed ahead of time.

Be strategic when you plan out your tasks….especially as you get closer to your wedding day.

Enjoy the planning process and relax as you move along towards your wonderful wedding day.



Sunday, October 17, 2010

Vendor Relationships - Who is right for the Team

Have you thought about the relationship you should have with your vendors?


There are different levels of relationships that you will have across that board. When you think about it…who will you be spending most of your time with?


Each vendor is important, however think about the time and expectations that you have for your vendors and realize that it is important to mesh well with them all especially your planner/coordinator, photographer and videographer. The florist receives your vision before hand and executes to your expectations. The stationery design company brings your vision to light on paper. When you think about the roles each play and logistics there are the many things to think about.


Consider the vendors whom are there for the entire day…don’t hire them at last minute, this should be a top priority vendor and listen to their response to your style and envision them on your day. After meeting with at least two to select from in each category review mental notes with you fiancé and determine if they will make the team for your wedding or special event.


Happy Planning

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Meal Options for the Children

Don’t be fooled…local restaurants & McDonald’s has a kid’s meal option and so does the reception venue.

When you have met with your venue for a tasting be sure to ask about kids meals for the children that are attending or participating in your wedding or event. There are a few options to save on their meals:

A. Kid’s meals are offered as meals that children usually enjoy…. chicken fingers, nuggets, etc.
B. A buffet meal for 50% off for children
C. If the child will be sitting in the lap of their parent, save the cost for the kids meal and they can eat with their parent.

Think about it….do you want to pay $15.00 for a kid’s meal while the 2 year old sits in their parent lap and eat? Have a highchair on standby and let them enjoy.

Be sure to discuss the options available to you, this will allow you to make the best decision for your reception when it comes down to meals for the children and managing your budget.

Happy Planning!

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Meet the Bridal Party - "Bridal Party Social"

Now that you have made the decided to select your bridal party, it would be great if all the ladies get an opportunity to meet each other! Don’t wait until the day of the wedding to meet everyone if you can prevent it.

Gathering before the events unfold can be more exciting and special if the ladies get together early to discuss the details of the wedding such as:

The colors, theme, dresses, fittings, shoes & accessories, hair, nails, makeup and the many other topics to be discussed.

Your maid/matron of honor may begin her responsibilities by hosting the first meeting if you prefer. Don’t have a formal meeting and be stern with guidelines and expectations….incorporate ice breakers and games to get the ladies mingling…. and remember to listen to feedback. Having a bridal party social during in the planning process can alleviate the stress and pressure and sets your expectations in the beginning in a nice way.

Make it fun and think about possible Bridal Social Party Themes….Pamper Me / Spa Party, Wine & Cheese.....etc.

Happy Planning!

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

DIY Smores Kit



Here is a fun idea for giving a favor gift that your guests can use. As I was playing around on the internet and wedding sites I came across this neat idea.


Let your guests enjoy taking their personal smores kit home and have fun preparing a sweet treat. You may also offer them an opportunity to prepare them at the venue by creating a smores bar as an additional wow factor.

Here are the details from a past bride:Materials:
1. Hershey's Chocolate Bars
2. Graham Crackers

3. Marshmallows

4. Wire Hangers

5. Cellophane Bags in 3 Sizes

6. Adhesive Paper and Cardstock

7. Labels and Instructions design (downloadable pdfs right here and here.)

8. Kraft Box with Lid 4.75" x 6" x 2.5"

9. Tissue

10. Ribbon

11. Scissors

12. Wire Cutter


STEP 1: Remove the marshmallows, chocolate and graham crackers from their original packaging and put them in cellophane bags. Here we put six graham cracker squares in a 4" x 6" bag, Three chocolate squares in a 5" x 3" bag, and about 10 marshmallows in a 5.5" x 8" bag.

STEP 2: With the wire cutters, cut off the head of the hanger and then bend the hanger in fourths so it fits the length of the box. Secure it with ribbon.


Original Post: http://www.projectwedding.com/wedding-ideas/diy-s-mores-kits




Monday, July 26, 2010

DIY: Creative Welcome Letter Alternative

If you are looking for an alternate idea for a formal welcome letter for your out of town guests or for a destination wedding......here is a really cute idea from a destination bride.

Print less and save more by cutting back on the multiple pages of information and create a cute informative trifold filled with great local info.

Check out the photos below and the link to the original blog.

Enjoy!

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Champagne and Cake Reception

When most people think about receptions the first thing that comes to mind is usually a formal seated dinner however there are other options able. One of the most inexpensive receptions is a champagne and cake reception where following the ceremony guess what is offered:



Yes, you got it! Champagne and Cake!

This is a slight trend with younger couples that would like to have friends and family around for their first dance, dancing and socializing. If you’re not able to afford a formal reception, this is an option to celebrate at your ceremony venue or another venue with a nominal cost.

Another option is to add cocktails and hors d’ oeuvres, use high top cocktail tables and an open dance floor for all to enjoy the party time.

Let your style reflect you both and your budget.

Savings & Being Organized with Wedding Plans

Planning a wedding as you may already know from talking and getting advice from friends and loved ones it can be pretty pricy. Here a few basic tips that can help you save and be organized during the planning process.

1. Start planning early. Allow yourself time to map out your plans and details. Take the time to research venues, customer service of companies, client reviews, and pricing of potential vendors of interest.

2. Set up a wedding account. Decide on the amount in total that you would like to spend. After researching allocate an estimate for each area and stick to your budget. Don’t go into a marriage in debt for the wedding, it’s the love that counts not the glamour.

3. Enlist assistance early. Planning your wedding day can be overwhelming with details, and may include comments and feedback that you may want or not want from friends and family. Set your expectations and you can hand out areas of responsibilities early. Again tasks should be to your expectations as a couple.

4. Use seasonal products. Using items in season such as flowers, vegetables (great for a green or organic theme), and other items will be less expensive that selecting items that are not in season.

5. Have your ceremony and reception in one location. Automatically this eliminates the cost of transportation or allows you to save and just have a limo transport the couple and wedding attendants once.

6. Have a smaller wedding. Don’t feel obligated to invite everyone that you know. It may not be necessary to invite your close friend’s cousin that you went to a party with once. Keep this in mind, while you plan your wedding on the budget you plan on spending.

Enjoy your planning process it should be a fun time for you both, take your time and think about the details. Don’t make a mistake and overlook the logistics of the wedding day. If financially able hire a planner at least for the day of your wedding. Meet with a few planners to learn about their style and get an idea to see if you three will be a good fit for each other. Don’t assume that planners are expensive; the pricing typically is based on your needs and the packages available.

Tip: If you are planning an April- June you are in prime wedding season and up against proms. Dresses, tuxedos and limos should be reserved within a timely manner.

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Let's do Brunch.....



Have a Brunch Reception and the savings will lower your budget.

With the many expenses that are associated with planning a wedding, the most expensive area that you can save is in the reception. Have you considered having an early wedding ceremony followed by a buffet brunch?

There are a few advantages to having your reception earlier in the day:

- The food can be a lighter portion in comparison to a dinner meal.
- Guests typically don’t drink as much during the afternoon as they would in the late evening.
- If you choose to have more than wine and champagne a limited open bar is acceptable
- A brunch reception is shorter timeframe and allows guests to enjoy the rest of their evening after celebrating with you. Some couples prefer this option and enjoy an intimate dinner as newlyweds before they call it a day.
- The cost of a venue is lower to rent during that day than the evening.
- There should not be a need for additional lighting for an afternoon reception; the sun should be still shining bright.
- Your décor of flowers can also be limited and/or fruits may also be incorporated to as centerpieces.

There are several things that you can do to lower the cost of a reception by serving brunch. See a few pictures below for inspiration.












Thursday, July 8, 2010

Saving for the Budget

While shopping in the wedding aisle of a store today I overheard a few ladies calculating wedding items needed and determining if the items were in their budget. Needless to say there are many couples that are planning their weddings on budget.

There are several adjustments that can be made to your current lifestyles and spending habits that will prove to help with savings. Open a specific account that will be dedicated to your wedding and practice good habits that can help you save.

a) Bring your lunch to work, don’t spend $5-$8 a day for lunch…pack your leftovers or make a sandwich. This is healthier and saves you an estimate of $25-$40 per week.

b) If your addicted to gourmet coffee, lattés, cappuccino, and other drinks and breakfast this is another area that you can save. Some of these drinks can run roughly $5 for just the drink without the sandwich. If you stop during your route to work a few days to get a morning drink this can save you an estimated $25+ per week.

c) Limit your partying and happy hours this can become expensive and will add up quickly. Still maintain a social life, don’t get consumed and focus strictly on planning it can become overwhelming and stressful if you let it. If you attend an average of 2 social events this can save you an estimated $30+ for the week.

These are just a few tips to get your saving wheels turning; the adjustments will be worth it in the end. You will be amazed on how much you can save with minor changes.

If you are ready for a major challenge, save your receipts from every purchase for one week and add all purchases into two categories: Need or Want.

Analyze the results and see how much money you could have saved.

Happy saving and planning!

Wednesday, June 30, 2010

RSVP Dilemmas

Handling RSVP cards can be very time consuming and challenging at times. Keep in mind that when sending out RSVP you should have a projected number of guests that will respond to the RSVP card.

Track your cards by having the responses in alphabetical order; an index card box comes in handy with keeping the cards together in one location.

To avoid guests from reserving five seats when you expected them to reserve two you may also prepare RSVP cards based on the specific number of seats you are able to reserve for your guest. To do this you will need to know the person that you are sending the invitation to and the estimated number of seats you will need.

Below is a suggestion on wording the specified number of seats reserved per invitation.

We have reserved two seats in your honor.

M____________________________________

_____ Accept with pleasure _____ Decline with regret

The kindness of your response is requested by September 1, 2010

Sunday, June 20, 2010

Shade on a Summer Wedding Day




If you are planning on having a ceremony outside, many people think about the chance of rain…..how about the chance of unbearable sun? Think about your bridesmaids as they stand in the hot sun and your guests while they are seated.


Pass on the boutiques, save on the cost of the boutiques and order personalized parasols for their use following the wedding. Having a personalize parasol can serve as a wedding day necessity to keep your bridesmaids out of the sun, for creative photos, and as a keepsakes. Check out some photos below from http://www.idooriginals.com/ and http://www.pamelasparasols.com/



Oh and don’t forget about your guests! Consider having a program fan to serve as double duty….cooling down your guests and informing them of the details for the ceremony & reception.
Tip: Immediately after the ceremony your coordinator should have water for the entire wedding party while your guests attend the cocktail hour.