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Tuesday Tip- Marriage License vs. Certificate

Hey Everyone. Getting your marriage license is a pretty simple and painless process here in Florida. A marriage license allows you to get married and a marriage certificate is proof that you are married. Heres what you need to know. Where do I go ? Sarasota Marriage License Dept.-Sarasota County2000 Main StreetRm 102Sarasota, FL 34237(941) 362-40668:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. / M - FClosed for holidays Observed by Sarasota County Manatee County Recorder- Manatee County1115 Manattee Avenue WestBradenton, FL 34206(941) 741-40408:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. / M - FClosed for holidays Observed by Manatee County What is the ID requirement? picture ID such as a driver's license and your Social Security card or a valid passport number or I-94 card. You may be asked for a certified copy of your birth certificate. If you have been previously married, the date of your divorce or date of your spouse's death must be supplied. If the divorce or spouse's death occurred within the past 30 days, a certified copy of the divorce decree or death certificate is required. Is their a waiting period? There is no waiting period for Sarasota County residents who have both completed a state sanctioned marriage preparation course within the last 12 months. There is a three-day waiting period for Florida residents who have not taken the course. How Much a Marriage License Cost? $93.50. Many locales do accept credit cards now, but be sure to check with the local county recorder or clerk to make sure. Marriage Preparation Course: Effective January, 1999, Sarasota County couples will have to consider the consequences of divorce before they can get married. Prospective brides and grooms are now required to read a small booklet which describes situations such as [...]

By |2019-06-12T22:30:03-04:00June 10th, 2014|Uncategorized|350 Comments
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Old Florida Style at The Gasparilla Inn, Boca Grande Florida

Swanky Soiree recently was at the beautiful Gasparilla Inn to coordinate Ashley & Ryan Whittemore's Wedding. The Inn is over 100 years old and has true southern charm. It is beautifully decorated and oh so cozy. I just loved the fresh color palette and unique decor. The Inn has a old school country club feel but a friendly relaxed culture. The town is quaint and guests cruise the island on golf carts or bicycles. This is a great place to get away and step back in time. The wedding was held at the Inn's Beach Club which is ocean front and only a short walk from the main inn. The setting was just stunning and the staff was so wonderful. This wedding couldn't have been more spectacular. Not to mention how sweet and wonderful the bride & groom were. Congratulations Ryan & Ashley and welcome to the Swanky Family!! Photography Credit: Concept Photography Rentals/Decor/Florals: Concept Bait Coordination/Planning: Swanky Soiree Events Venue: Gasparilla Inn, Boca Grande

By |2014-06-08T22:47:09-04:00May 27th, 2014|Weddings|740 Comments
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Rent this Look

I found this gorgeous table setting from the knot and pinned it to pinterest. It got a lot of attention and was repined more than anything else I have pinned. So I am now renting this look to clients or any one interested in renting it. The set includes a petal table cloth, sequin runner, 2 clear candelabras, 5 square birch wood vases. The only thing you will need to add is some flowers. Each table setting is $100 to rent. Please contact us for more information.

By |2019-06-12T22:30:03-04:00April 27th, 2014|Centerpiece Ideas, Party Decor, Rentals, Sarasota, Table Decor, Weddings|537 Comments
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Myths about Day of Coordinators

Scenario: I have a consultation with a bride who is about 50% through her planning process and is in need of a coordinator.  She originally decided against hiring one because her venue has a ‘wedding coordinator.’  Fortunately, she has come to the realization that her venue coordinator is not the same thing as a wedding coordinator and has plenty of time to remedy the problem.  Most brides don’t find out until the day of the wedding.  Here are the top 7 differences between a venue coordinator and wedding coordinator:   1.  Your venue coordinator is not going to confirm final details with your vendors (like making sure the cake arrives while the florist is there so it can be decorated).  Your wedding coordinator will.  2.  Your venue coordinator is not going to help you plan your ceremony (who walks with whom and when).  Your wedding coordinator will.   3. Your venue coordinator is not going to set up your decor, make sure the linens aren’t wrinkled, or arrange flowers.  Your wedding coordinator will.   4. Your venue coordinator is not going to direct your rehearsal, run your last minute errands (because you forgot to buy a unity candle), or remind you to give the officiant the marriage license.  Your wedding coordinator will.   5. Your venue coordinator is not going to make sure your DJ shows up on time or remind the caterer of the changes you made with the salad.  Your wedding coordinator will. 6.  Your venue coordinator isn’t going to pack up your champagne flutes with bubble wrap and put your gifts in your car before you leave for the night.  Your wedding coordinator will.   7.  Your venue coordinator works for your [...]

By |2014-04-04T14:46:50-04:00March 30th, 2014|Anniversary Party, Holiday Party, Uncategorized, Weddings|272 Comments
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Cool Trends that are making moves!!

 Marquee Signs Spelling out words like “LOVE” and “BAR” or exaggerating initials, marquee signs are being used all over in events. The retro displays can be used as signage throughout the event landscape and as sweet announcements incorporated into any style event. These signs can really personalize your event and stand for something. Marquee letters   Marquee letters   Events for a Cause Charitable events have been skyrocketing  in popularity. Event professionals are finding ways to incorporate charitable donations into their events, from using vendors  and suppliers that offer incentive-based platforms to offering donations based on participation to organizing community events as part of their marketing strategies. This gets the community involved and benefits everyone. Shapes and Patterns Expect to see a greater use of patterns in the coming year. Geometric shapes, fun patterns like houndstooth, floral prints and polka dots are playing a role in many events as designers and clients work to create statement pieces. Color blocking is also transferring from the runway into more events, both with multiple colors and with simple black and white designs, making it a little easier to take those dramatically different colors and combine them into one cover-worthy event. Mix up patterns, colors and shapes for a unique look. Shape and Pattern Mix   Shape and Pattern Mix    Rustic Modern Décor The conventional idea of taking a rustic look and adding décor elements to create an upscale appearance is still going strong and will continue through the beginning of the year. Using mirrors, metallic centerpieces, marquee signs and feathers in your décor can add that modern touch to your traditional rustic event complete with mason jars, exposed wood furnishings [...]

By |2019-06-12T22:30:04-04:00March 21st, 2014|Anniversary Party, Baby Shower, Color, Holiday Party, Party Decor, Themed Parties, Trending, Uncategorized, Venues, Weddings|291 Comments
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Wedding Etiquette Mistakes You Didn’t Know You Were Making

I came across this article and thought I would share it with you all. I was surprised by a couple of them. It can get so confusing on what the "Right" thing to do is when planning a wedding. So heres some tips :) 1. You're not including the wedding location on your save-the-date card. 2. You're choosing a less convenient date or time. 3. You're not making clear-cut lines on who’s invited and who’s not. 4. You're putting a false start time on the invitation. 5. You're using pre-printed labels on the invitation. 6. You're sending an invitation to someone who already told you she can’t attend. 7. You're having a cash bar. 8. You're not feeding the band. 9. You're not taking the time to greet each guest personally. 10. You have expectations for your gifts. Read more at: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/08/24/wedding-etiquette_n_3806349.html

By |2019-06-12T22:30:05-04:00March 11th, 2014|Uncategorized|233 Comments
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The Art of uplighting and how to save some money

Its been a while since I have posted as  we are getting ready for a wedding this weekend. But I wanted to share some ideas for DIY uplighting. Uplighting really lifts rooms and  creates a cool atmosphere. However it can also be very expensive if you are working in a small budget. The typical cost for professional uplighting is anywhere from $400 to $1000 just depending on the scale of the venue and how many lights you would like. If you are going to attempt to try some DIY uplighting, make sure you have the time to set it up, confirm with the venue coordinator that the selected lights will not blow a fuse and that you safely install ( we don't want guests to trip). Washes of Color on Walls The most popular effect is to provide washes of color or colors around the room. Use the colors of your event or have complementary colors to the event colors to add drama and interest to the room. Beams of Light A focused beam of color or light on certain aspects of the room may be requested. Having beams of light to add more focus to the cake or drama to columns or aspects of the room may be a good fit. Architectural Lighting Lighting up the exit of the room or venue adds nice effect for the photos at night time.  Set the mood on the outside of the venue as well as the inside This is a Par 36 pin spot 60watt light. They sell for around $20 and you can add gels that go over top of the light to change the color for only a couple of dollars a light. This [...]

By |2019-06-12T22:30:06-04:00March 4th, 2014|Uncategorized|1,092 Comments
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Patti & Normans 30th Anniversary

Patti & Norman celebrated their 30th Anniversary at the St Petersburg Women's Club in St Pete, Fl. Patti had all of the details worked out and Swanky Soiree came in to help bring her vision to life. The theme was black, white and pearls. It turned out beautiful and they were so great to work with. Congrats Patti and Norman!! Swanky Soiree had so much fun at your event!!

By |2014-02-15T18:19:59-05:00February 15th, 2014|Anniversary Party|236 Comments
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The gorgeous Palmetto Riverside Inn

Happy Friday everyone. This week I visited a venue called the Palmetto Riverside Inn run by a husband and wife team, Mieke and Wim from Belgium. They started the B&B in 2009. The property has 6 rooms and can sleep 12 people. They have 2 suites on the first floor where the bride and groom can get ready.The suites are large and fabulously decorated.  The B&B has been focusing on hosting waterfront wedding ceremonies and receptions as well as family reunions, baby showers, bridal showers, …  The latest expansion, which dates from 2011, included a Ballroom/Reception Hall and outdoor marble patio that can host up to 150 guests. The outdoor patio area is laced with string lights throughout. When you book with this venue they include the tables and chairs as well. Another wonderful perk about this property is you can arrive by boat and a water taxi can also transport your guests. Two large hotels are conveniently located across the water to accommodate any guests that do not stay at the inn. This place is truly a hidden gem and it offers the whole package.  Special Thank you to Mieke and Wim for showing me around your beautiful property. I hope to host a event here soon!! http://www.palmettoriverside.com

By |2019-06-12T22:30:07-04:00February 7th, 2014|Palmetto, Uncategorized, Venues|260 Comments
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Baby Shower Trends for 2014

So many of my friends either just had a baby, are pregnant or planning. So I thought I would look into whats popular for 2014. I love the idea of having everyone vote what they think the gender is. Gender Reveal Bird Theme. Birds have been gaining in popularity over the past couple of years. They are elegant and sweet. To achieve this look use bird cages, branches and paper birds. Bird theme baby shower A variety of scented candles as a favor. Who doesn't love candles, plus you can buy them in bulk for pretty cheap. Print your own label and  add a bow. Candle Party Favors Cupcakes!!! This trend has been exploding in all events. Label your cupcakes with decorative craft paper and a cute saying. Cupcakes with Labels The owl trend is still going and so stinky cute!! Owls Tip jar. Have your guests list some helpful tips and words of wisdom. Then scrapbook it. Advice Nature Theme. This is another theme that is popping up in weddings as well. Go rustic with wooden photo frames, tree trunk candles, birch centerpieces and wild flowers. Nature Theme Pink and Blue showers are gone. White showers are sophisticated, fun, fresh and clean. White baby shower What will it BEE? The bumble bee theme is cute and playful. Create some buzz. Bee Theme Clock theme. This is got a vintage vibe to it. I like it and I think it would be great for a brunch or tea party. Its Time boy or girl? Clock Theme Shabby Chic. I still can't get enough of this [...]

By |2019-06-12T22:30:09-04:00January 28th, 2014|Baby Shower, Party Decor, Themed Parties|384 Comments
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Lauren & Todds Fall Wedding. Congrats to you both!!!

Congratulations to you both. Thank you for allowing Swanky Soiree Events to be apart of such a beautiful fall wedding. The couple tied the knot at the gorgeous Phillippi Mansion Estate in Sarasota, Florida. Photographer: Alisa Sue Photography Caterer: Nellies Deli Music: More than Music Floralist: Beneva Flowers Cake: Blake Ellis, Elegant Entrees Make up: Amy Shaw  

By |2014-01-22T08:44:07-05:00January 22nd, 2014|Sarasota, Weddings|254 Comments
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2014 Invitation Trends

I just love designing invitations and stationary. Invitations should tell a story about you, the couple or the organization throwing the event. Peoples personalities and event vibe  can really shine through on the invitations or even on the event website if it has a clear concept or theme. I love meeting with clients, hearing about all of their great ideas and helping their vision come to life. The stationary has to flow and tell a story in order for it to come off clearly to your guests. So that being said, here are some of the trends for 2014.  Incorporate these ideas into your invitations and stationary, its totally trending :). Metallic: No longer are they just silver or gold foil stamping. They have moved into the rose gold and tawny bronzes. This look is very elegant and classy. metallic blush invites   Lace: Make a sleeve of lace or use a laser cutter to create a intricate cut pattern. I bought a dye cut machine last year and  LOVE it (Clients love it too)!! There are so many cool designs you can create. If you do not have one, Etsy has a lot of neat designs already cut and ready to go. lace & laser cut invite sleeves Hand Drawing: People are opting for that hand made sketchy drawing. It has a custom feeling to it. You could easily take a picture of the place you are holding your event, trace it and have it printed to your invitations. Its a great way to add a personal touch. Plus people will be super impressed with your skills. Florals: Vintage inspired florals are back in a big way. Ive been seeing [...]

By |2019-06-12T22:30:10-04:00January 16th, 2014|Invitations, Stationary, Trending|208 Comments
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Hottest Floral Trends for 2014

The flower of the year is the many-petaled tree peony, Lush, soft, Exquisitely romantic — says New York’s Ariella Chezar, whose work has been seen at the White House. The ideal vessel for your centerpiece? Crystal and silver, says Ariella. "They feel elegant and retro at once." Greens, greens, greens. No 2014 centerpiece will be complete without peeks of unusual greens. Soft vines, geranium leaves and maidenhair fern all top the must-have lists, reports Amber. The flower garland is back in a big way. Ariella loves citrus garlands for bars and over doorways—lemons, limes, oranges on the stem. “And fern garlands are really beautiful. I love them down the center of a long table.” note information found from the Bridal Guide website.

By |2019-06-12T22:30:10-04:00January 14th, 2014|Centerpiece Ideas, Floral, Table Decor|266 Comments
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Pantone has released its Color of the year for 2014

Every Year Pantone has a color of the Year that translates into fashion, interiors, and beauty. This year the color they have selected is Radiant Orchid 18-3224 “While the 2013 color of the year, PANTONE 17-5641 Emerald, served as a symbol of growth, renewal and prosperity, Radiant Orchid reaches across the color wheel to intrigue the eye and spark the imagination,” said Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute®. “An invitation to innovation, Radiant Orchid encourages expanded creativity and originality, which is increasingly valued in today’s society.” “An enchanting harmony of fuchsia, purple and pink undertones, Radiant Orchid inspires confidence and emanates great joy, love and health. It is a captivating purple, one that draws you in with its beguiling charm.” Heres a board I put together to help with color scheme ideas for all of the seasons of 2014.

By |2019-06-12T22:30:12-04:00December 27th, 2013|Color, Trending|449 Comments
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2014 Color Trends for Events and Weddings

Ok so here it is, the color trends for events and weddings in 2014 The grand winner is Navy and Dazzling blue. These shades of blue are really great year round. Other popular trending colors are shades of pink. Pink is always "in" but this time it will be classy shades of pink that compliment each other Gray is surprisingly becoming very popular. Gray can be paired with many colors such as yellow, coral, turquoise and many more. It is classy, timeless, and elegant. Neutrals will be popular. Pairing these with soft colors would be great for a fall or winter wedding. And of course Coral and Aqua is still strong. Another great color for spring and summer.   And of course Coral is still strong. Another great color for spring and summer. Ok guys thats my color trend report for 2014 courtesy of pantone. Ill keep posting more updates and images of how to pull these colors off. Color plays a huge part on the feel of your event and the mood you are going for. Don't underestimate the power of color. Its very important to have a clear vision of what you want your event to look like. Create a vision board and not just a pinterest one. Take your images and print them out, mount them to foam core and stick to it. I know its tempting to want to change it up but you have to love it and commit :). Thats all folks, happy Friday!!!  

By |2019-06-12T22:30:13-04:00December 20th, 2013|Trending|222 Comments
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Christmas and New Year party themes for 2013

CHRISTMAS What's trending: "White Christmas" is a popular theme this year, where everything from the food to the decor is all-white. It's a clean, photogenic look that works with any style and is absolutely timeless, plus it's easy to create. Signature bars organized around a single theme are also popular, with styles ranging from modern and sophisticated to rustic and simple, with cocktails to match. Top decor: It's all about simplicity this year. Deck the tree in all-white decorations to set the tone. Gifts can be beautifully wrapped in white paper, so they can serve as decor at parties before they're opened on Christmas morning. Recipe suggestions: Beautifully styled and presented food always elevates a celebration. To keep with the theme of simplicity, purchase rather than make your food, and display it really well for an elegant look without all the work. For hosts who wish to bake, try making gingerbread reindeer, espresso Kahlua balls or peanut butter holiday blossoms. Top etiquette tip: If you're attending a work-related holiday party, don't post photos of your boss or coworkers on social media without asking them first. NEW YEAR'S EVE What's trending: Champagne and dessert parties are popular this year, as well as interactive desserts, starting with the old classics -- fondue and s'mores. DIY bubble bars are also "popping" up. Top decor: No New Year's party is complete without a confetti bar. Set out a few glass vases or apothecary jars filled with confetti. Include treat bags and scoops, and invite guests to mix their own confetti to toss at midnight. Recipe suggestions: Try roasted holiday nuts with lemon & rosemary, classic profiteroles, and festive Jello vodka shots. Top etiquette tip: Put your cell phone on [...]

By |2019-06-12T22:30:13-04:00December 10th, 2013|christmas, Company party, Holiday Party, Themed Parties|710 Comments
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10 Steps to hiring the perfect photographer for your event

Step 1: Settle on a Style You will need to first decide what type of photography style you prefer, as that will help determine which kind of photographer you'll want shooting your wedding. Do any of the following appeal to you?   Documentary: Instead of a series of posed photos, these are candid or spontaneous pictures (read: not styled) of people, decor and the action. Typical shots might include the lavish raw bar before guests start digging in, your motley crew of cousins dancing or you and your bridesmaids laughing, champagne in hand. With a purely photojournalistic photographer, you'll very rarely see people staring at the camera -- the photos capture the moments exactly as they happened, and together they tell a story. Portraiture: If you prefer classic portraits (think: your parents' wedding album), go with a traditional photographer who specializes in portraiture. These are posed shots of the two of you, friends and family in front of various backdrops. That's not to say there isn't room for creativity in this category. While some photographers will pose subjects in more traditional spots (like at the ceremony altar or out on the lawn of the country club) and in more formal poses (standing as a group together), other photographers take portraiture further into the creative realm with a more dramatic composition (the couple sitting on a lounge chair at their hip hotel reception venue, or the couple holding hands in the middle of a nearby dirt road with the mountains in the background). Fine Art: Though it's similar to documentary photography, this style gives the shooter greater artistic license to infuse their particular point of view and style into your photographs. So while the shots reflect reality, it's the [...]

By |2019-06-12T22:30:14-04:00December 5th, 2013|Photography|187 Comments
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Easy Centerpieces for ANY Event

Whimsical Lolli Pops Cabbage Centerpiece- I know this seems really weird but cabbage creates a cool pop of color and texture Lemons- These are great for any spring or summer event. Creates a fresh and lovely centerpiece. Pop it with bright colors for some extra color flare. Chic Rustic Terra Cotta Pots Flip Clear Glasses upside down and create a cool multitiered  effect Wheat Grass in Rustic Box. This box is so chic and I love the gerbera daisies for the added pop of color. Pumpkins filled with fresh flowers. This is great all through the fall months. Pinecones in a clear vase. This is another great one for fall. Get a pinecone scent and mist the cones to give the added effect of fall Large leaves in a vase adds a cool effect. Its great for any occasion. Can create a simple elegant look without breaking the bank.  

By |2013-11-09T04:29:23-05:00November 8th, 2013|Centerpiece Ideas, Party Decor, Table Decor|420 Comments
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Holiday Party Checklist

Hey Party planners. Planning a party can be stressful and time consuming. If hiring a planner is not in the budget, heres a checklist to help you get organized and hopefully relieve some anxiety along the way. 1 Month Before Choose the type of party and the theme Come up with a budget Prepare your guest list Mail or email invitations 3 Weeks Before Arrange all of the serving pieces you may need. Such as platters, glassware, flatware and table linens Choose your menu and if you are cooking yourself, gather your recipes If you are preparing the food, create a timeline for your chosen recipes Serving cocktails? Think about hiring a bartender. Prepare a signature cocktail idea Order flowers. Florists are busy during the holidays so place your order well in advance Make list of ingredients you will need for your recipes Test any new recipes you want to troubleshoot 2 Weeks Before If you are throwing a potluck, have a list of things you are missing and assign away Purchase wine and liquor Set the table as a trial run to make sure you have all of the dishes and serving utensils you will need 1 Week Before Call or email guests who have not RSVP's to see ifthey will be able to attend. and also follow up with the guests who have offered to bring dishes Make space in the refrigerator and freezer 4 Days Before Purchase all remaining nonperishables If you have a turkey, start defrosting in rimmed baking sheet 2 Days Before If using cloth napkins or tablecloths, iron them now Place frozen pie dough in refrigerator to defrost overnight 1 Day Before Assemble desserts and bake( or wait till [...]

By |2019-06-12T22:30:15-04:00October 25th, 2013|Holiday Party|211 Comments
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Sarasota made the list of the top places to visit right now

http://www.buzzfeed.com/jetblueyouaboveall/10-places-in-the-us-youll-want-to-visit-right-now?sub=2625310_1738937 Check out the link. Sarasota made the top 10 list of places to visit right now. Just another reason to have a event or wedding here. We truly live in paradise.

By |2019-06-12T22:30:15-04:00October 20th, 2013|Sarasota|Comments Off on Sarasota made the list of the top places to visit right now
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