Venue: The Resort at Longboat Key Club DJ: Black Tie DJ's Florist: Beneva Flowers Photographer: Katelyn Prisco Photography Sweets: Cakes by Ron Hair & Makeup: Something Blu Transportation: Siesta Trolley Draping: Swanky Soiree
Let’s face it- on your big day, the last thing you want to be doing is handing out more money! But on your wedding day, take a moment to appreciate all of all the different puzzle pieces that came together to make the masterpiece known as your "Best Day Ever!" Companies and businesses greatly appreciate a "Thank You" from the new Mr. & Mrs. and any other form of monetary appreciation is welcomed. This is one expense that some couples do not plan for! If you have ever worked in the service industry, you can understand the agony of not getting a tip! The same can apply when it comes to your vendors! Make sure you double check your contracts to see if a tip or gratuity is already included! We never tell couples what to do! We do however provide a handy Cheat Sheet for those interested in tipping their vendors! SWANKY TIP: The disbursement of your thank you cards / tips should be assigned to a responsible bridal party member! (or your wedding planner, if you have one!) You can decide when they should be handed out
What is the difference between a Coordinator vs. a Planner? Planners are with you from day 1- they are there with you every step of the way, “holding your hand” so to say, from choosing your venue, your style/theme, creating a budget, choosing vendors and then managing them, and everything in between (there's usually a lot of in between!!). Planners do all of this IN ADDITION to what the Coordinator does. Coordinators are there with you one month before your wedding day. So all of the decision making has already been made by the bride and groom, the coordinator ties up any loose ends and presents you your wedding day on a silver platter. Timelines, main contact between you and your vendors, overseeing & beautifying set up, managing the smooth flow of the day and keeping an eye out on all the details is the Coordinators main purpose. They also will line up your bridal party prior to the ceremony, bustle your gown, let you know when the important nightly events are up (first dance, Cake cutting, sparkler sendoff, etc.) What are the PRO’s of having a coordinator? Budget Do you know what cakes, photographers, flowers, dj, or a videographer cost? Planners help to educate you on cost and then distribute your budget based on what is most important to you! It's hard to know if you are paying too much or what kind of quality you are getting for your money- we're here to guide you! Discounts We keep a good business relationship with our vendors, which means we’re receiving discounts that are then passed on to you! We also help with vendor referrals. One of the hardest parts of planning can be narrowing [...]
Being chosen as the Maid (matron) of Honor is the epitome of true friendship! What does this title include, you may ask? Let’s just say that the bride will be depending on you to support them throughout the engagement process and through the I DO’s! Woah! Talk about pressure! Have no fear! We are here to help narrow down your duties to make sure you are on your A game! Maid of Honor Wedding Dress Shopping & Wedding day Bustle – We all would love to have that instant SAY YES TO THE DRESS moment, but every bride is different! Some know the dress they want before they even walk into a boutique, others go on month long journeys until they have their jaw dropping moment. None the less, you are there for the ride, no matter how long or short it may be, with a huge smile on your face (and maybe a box of tissues). The Bustle can be a tricky part of the night- we have seen our fair share of 25 minute bustles because the MOH couldn’t figure it out! This can stress the bride out! Do not let that be you! Make sure you go with the bride to her final fitting so that you may be shown where the bustle buttons are! Bridesmaid Dress Shopping- Whether the bridal party is wearing the same dress or each member is wearing a different styled dress – your opinion matters the most to the bride when it comes to color or style. (of course, she wants her Best Friend to look fierce!) It will also be your job to interfere with any negative remarks – this is the bride’s day, not everyone else’s! DIY Assistance- There [...]
To travel or not to travel?? That is the question! Are you contemplating a destination wedding but worried about your budget? We have several tips to help you save big on your special day! Step 1- The first decision that sets your wedding in stone is the DATE. If you can be flexible with choosing your date, then you are on your way to saving already. Everyone knows there are parts of the year that are more desired to travel than others, so choosing a date during the off season is ideal for your budget! This will also work in your favor as resorts aren’t at full capacity which leaves more space and seclusion for you and your guests. Step 2- Choosing a venue is the next step in planning your destination wedding. Whether you are traveling to the sunshine state, Florida or out of the country to Costa Rica, several hotels and resorts have their own designated wedding venues that have set packages to choose from based on your needs. You would be responsible for booking your rooms and then let the resort handle the rest- sounds headache free, right? Picking a beach venue at any location is also a great idea! You can save on venue costs and have a beautiful landscape as the backdrop of your nuptials. Strep 3- Your vendors- another key factor in planning your wedding! Decide what vendors are most important to you and fly only them to your destination, the rest should be local! For example, you might have a favorite photographer/videographer or even a hairstylist (she’s the only one that understands your hair!)- it would save your pockets by only making only a few vendors travel [...]
Venue // John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art - Circus Museum Caterer // Mattison's Performers // Todd Zimmerman // Odd O T's Entertainment // Coney Island Chris Photographer // Jacquelyn Marie Event Planner // Swanky Soiree Brandon and Dustin had their special day on August 15, 2016 at the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art- Circus Museum! Working with these two amazing people on their circus themed wedding was beyond fun and enjoyable!! There were surprises at every turn that kept guests entertained the entire night! Congratulations to you both!
Band | Phase 5 Band Bridesmaid Dresses | Lily Pulitzer Cake | Pastries by Design Ceremony and Reception Venue | Longboat Key Club Event Planner | Swanky Soiree Florist | Flowers by Fudgie Officiant | John Pieper Hair and Make-up Artist | Destiny and Light Photobooth | The Fancy Booth Photographer | Limelight Photography Transportation | Siesta Trolley Wedding Gown | Sophia Tolli Reception Favors | Cigar Creations Stephanie and Matthew have a love story for the books! The two have known each other more than 15 years! (over half of their lives!!) They met at the bus stop in 6th grade and attended the same middle and high schools. When it came time to go to college theirs paths separated, only to be brought back together for a bond that would undoubtedly last a lifetime. The duo added a precious baby to their growing family on March, 29, 2016, her name is Harriett- and watch out, because she is sure to steal your heart! After 5 years of dating, Matthew got down on one knee at one of their favorite vacation sites- Long Boat Key! So, it only made sense to bring their closest friends and family back to Florida to say I DO! Harbourside at Long Boat Key Club provided the ideal setting for this happy couple- a large ballroom to accommodate for all their guests, and an outside seating area where guests could enjoy freshly rolled cigars. The Lily Pulitzer inspired wedding had a relaxed beach vibe full of bright colors and lots of love! This was definitely a fun and detailed wedding for Swanky Soiree to be a part of- we provided custom invitations and stationary, a beautifully draped backdrop for the sweetheart table, and uplights to set the [...]
Ceremony Location: St Josephs Catholica Church, Bradenton Reception Location:South Florida Musuem Florist: Beneva Flowers Caterer: Delectables Wedding Planning: Swanky Soiree Events DJ: Delite Entertainment Rentals: Swanky Soiree Events Photographer: Alisa Sue Lighting: Swanky Soiree Events Hair and makeup: Ana Molinari Pie : Sugar Cubed S3 Jenna & Brady's wedding was so much fun. We loved planning this wedding with them. Not only were they planning their dream wedding but also completing med school and moving for their residency. They incorporated so many local Florida details. From the tangerine favors/seating assignments, custom illustrated invitations, local brews, pig display and local bakery selections. The couple loved pie so instead of doing a traditional cake they chose a variety of delicious pies. The palette was elegant and filled with fun Florida color. We adored the bouquets and table arrangements. Thank you for having us plan your amazing day!! Best Wishes
"There are no problems, only stories." How to stay stress free while planning a wedding! 1.) Book as many services as you can with a single vendor. For example, if your wedding planner or florist offers lighting, rentals and invitations, you can potentially score a big discount for packaging them together, rather than hiring different vendors to get each job done. You also have more room to negotiate 2.) Consider having a trial for your wedding décor, just like you would for your hair and makeup. This way you can get a good visual, allowing you to see how different textures and colors you’ve chosen do (or don’t) fit together. No one wants to spend a small fortune on centerpieces only to walk into their reception room and be disappointed with the way they were put together. 3.) Save yourself from those frantic wedding-morning phone calls — while you’re trying to get your massage or hairstyle done in peace; it helps providing a detailed printout of whom vendors should call in case of an emergency or last-minute question. 4.) Prioritize. Decide which elements are the most important to you, and start with those. If on the top of your list is having the perfect wedding dress and the cake falls low on the list, start looking for wedding dresses before visiting bakeries. If time is cutting close, as often happens, at least you’ll be happy with the aspects of your wedding that you care most about. 5.) Assign jobs in the beginning. When you have your wedding party chosen and you know the jobs you need done, it’s a great idea to assign jobs to everyone in the beginning so that later on no one is confused [...]
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So we all know by now that Radiant Orchid is the color of the year and continues to shine into fall. With the fall fashion shows all around us, the event planning industry follows the fashion trend mimicking the runway. Here are some ways to incorporate these trends into your next holiday party. Save time and money through our decoration rentals. See a look you like?? Send it our way and we will design it at a fraction of the cost. Swanky Soiree has centerpieces, props and all of your rental needs to pull of the most Swanky Soiree of the Fall and Winter Season. Grown Up Reds: Sangria, an exotic red that evokes a sense of glamorous adventures and faraway destinations is enhanced by Aurora Red, a more sophisticated shade that adds verve and spark. Two extremes of the purple family that intrigue the eye and inspire the imagination: Mauve Mist, a romantic and elegant purple shade, reminds us of the deco era and stimulates a sense of femininity and empowerment. Radiant Orchid, a captivating and adaptable shade continues to shine from the spring 2014 palette. Earthy Green: Pair either with Cypress, a majestic and powerful green; indicative of its name, this shade has a towering presence and serves as a stunning perennial. Bold Blues: With its slightly green undertone, Bright Cobalt offers a subtle twist on the traditional cobalt blue, which unifies this season’s blues. Likewise, Royal Blue, which is both evocative and dignified, provides more complexity and excitement than the average navy, while still remaining versatile. royalbluetable A Muted Bright: Adding a ray of sunlight and warmth, optimistic Misted Yellow Cool Neutrals: Aluminum, a futuristic stainless steel shade that serves as a complex neutral. Cognac’s name alone leads to [...]
Summer is a great time to get friends and family together for outdoor festivities. Here are some trending ideas to wow your guests and throw a Swanky party. 1. Carve into a watermelon. Make your fruit and appetizer table pop with this jazzy touch. 2. Add some pillows and festive towels to your existing furniture. 3. Sparklers have been a party favorite for years. Make some cool signs for them and use them as a favor. 4. Apple berry dessert in a jar. This is just the cutest thing. 5. We know it will probably be hot out so offer your guests a refreshing Watermelon Mint Slush. 6. Cherry Bombs- Dress this delicious drink with cherry ice cubes and faux fireworks. Roll paper around stick then glue and make fringe. 7. Flag Centerpiece- Create this with a wooden box, some flags, faux grass and cheap baseballs. All information and images are courteous of Better Homes and Gardens.
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 [...]
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 [...]
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 [...]
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
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 [...]
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
Love this back drop for a sweet heart or a head table. All you need is a couple of crystal curtains, chandelier, florals and decorative pillows. This look creates an elegant ambiance in an outdoor setting. For an evening reception adding some up lights and lantern centerpieces would romanticize the table even more.
