Venue Spotlight: Palma Sola Botanical Gardens

In Bradenton, FL. there is a beautiful non-profit botanical garden that is worth a visit. Palma Sola Botanical Gardens could be a  perfect backdrop for your wedding ceremony and reception. Most of their property is full of exotic plants, flowers, and greenery at every turn. They have there lawn area, or the Galleria Building that can provide some shade and shelter in the hotter months. For Your Ceremony An arch is not needed here when you can use the natural beauty of the trees for your backdrop. All though, if you do want the added elegance of an arch it will only elevate your photos. With multiple corners of the property to choose from you can't go wrong with any spot here . The Lawn The lawn at Palma Sola Botanical is large enough for everything to be out there if you wanted. Fitting both large ceremonies and receptions, including a dance floor! Be sure to have Swanky Soiree help you with your planning, outsourcing furniture and lighting is definitely a must have here. This means you have endless options to create a look you want with unique chairs and lighting designs. The Galleria & Porch If the idea of being out in the open air, and sun light isn't your style for a reception, they do have an indoor space! The galleria is a beautiful wide open building with an extraordinary deck. There are endless possibilities of how you can utilize this space for your event! Some decide to dine out on the porch, while the dancing activities and bar remain inside the building. Add touches of pipe and drape and some twinkle lights for an elegant evening. [...]

By |2019-09-02T12:14:59-04:00December 12th, 2019|Rentals, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Venue Spotlight: Palma Sola Botanical Gardens

Supporting the Sport in Your Spouse

There are couples that love the idea of an elegant and glamorous wedding. Then there are other couples that make there wedding day truly different, by incorporating their favorite sports. These sport fanatic couples show their love of a team or sport through their venues, fashion choices and centerpieces. If you and your significant other share the same love ( or rivalry) in sports and teams, these are some great ideas to incorporate them on your special day. The Venue Looking for a place to host as many sports fans as you? Well, your home team stadium can be the perfect spot to host your event at. Some of these couples took it to their home base where they held their ceremonies, or receptions at. The Seating Bracket and Guest book Turn a scoreboard into a seating chart, or make a competitor's bracket for table assignments. Don't want to do a large display, you can always incorporate sports in your place cards. Golf balls, and mini footballs make a great subtle twist on a classic place card. Add the extra spin by getting creative with your table numbers. Pictures of jerseys, stadiums, and players are some ideas to get creative with. Having your guests autograph a bat, or team jersey as a guestbook makes for an awesome keep sake. Game - changing Centerpieces Your plain ballroom linens, can be chosen to fit your teams colors! Fill vases with baseballs or golfballs instead of candles, and add flowers to match your team! Get creative by thinking of ways to incorporate actual sport equipment like a helmet, glove, or baseball bat. Grand Slam Cakes & Toppers This is probably one of [...]

By |2019-08-29T15:36:27-04:00December 5th, 2019|Centerpiece Ideas, Party Decor, Sarasota, Table Decor, Themed Parties, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Supporting the Sport in Your Spouse

Venue Spotlight: The Powel Crosley Estate

This beautiful, historic mansion has the view and the space to host one amazing wedding! Located right on the Sarasota Bay, you can feel the energy from the "Roaring 20s" era still there. You can host up to a 300 or more person wedding, and gala on this property. Each section creates a unique and picturesque memory to last you a lifetime. That's why we are here showcasing each nook and cranny of this property, from Swanky Soiree's real weddings, and other events.   The Bayside Lawn With its luscious green grass that stretches all the way to the shiny turquoise waters of the bay. It's the largest space on the property. Anything over 100 guests is best suited on the lawn. Be prepared for Florida's finicky weather and make sure a Plan B is in action. Tents are allowed on the lawn, but can get expensive depending on the size and color. The lawn is large enough where you can host both a ceremony set up and reception with still plenty of space in between. Photographers can have multiple angle shots with a beautiful background no matter where they shoot. Make sure you budget for outsourcing lighting the lawn up at night, as the lawn space does not come with lighting. Don't know where to look? Swanky Soiree does it all the time, we are happy to help you with your lighting needs here. The Loggia This space is probably the second most photographed location on the property. With the Italian like archways, and tiles it makes for a beautiful vintage space for any backdrop. Some use it as a ceremony space by draping the archways, or featuring a food [...]

By |2019-08-29T12:32:51-04:00December 2nd, 2019|Photography, Sarasota, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Venue Spotlight: The Powel Crosley Estate

Finding Florals: Winter Edition

For our winter brides that may not have the flowers they so desperately want, because they are "not in season", don't worry! We can still make your dreams come true! There are several varieties of flowers still blooming at this time of year! Whatever you are looking for it can still be done with out feeling limited. Here is some helpful photos and bouquets that can be featured in the winter months. Roses, Hypericum Berries, and Pinecones Amaryllis, Ranunculus, and Anemones  Queen Anne's Lace,  Carnations, and Hydrangeas  Gardenia, Baby's Breath & Tulips                  

By |2019-08-26T15:33:58-04:00November 30th, 2019|Floral, Sarasota, Venues|Comments Off on Finding Florals: Winter Edition

Venue Spotlight: The Ringling Museum/ The Ca’ d’Zan

Are you looking for a unique and historic place to get married in Sarasota? The Ringling Museum and The Ca'd'Zan is one of your best options. You can't go wrong with any of their unique spaces to host your ceremony and reception. John Ringling is famously known for his circus entertainment. You won't find jugglers and clowns (unless you want too) at your wedding here. You'll find beautiful art pieces and architecture that John Ringing and his wife Mable built long ago. Ceremony Spaces Hosting your ceremony in part of the Courtyard, the mansion's front door, or it's terrace facing the bay are all beautiful options. Each space creates it's own artistic view for your guests to enjoy. Reception Spaces Most of their events here occur at The Ca'd' Zan or the courtyard in the midst of it's art museum. Both are large out door spaces with beautiful views no matter where you look.   Photo Opportunities All though each set up for every space is different and stylized, the photos you can take are endless. Word of advice when booking a historic location as this, they do require photo permits. Make sure you're rental package includes photography rights to get those amazing shots you want!

By |2019-08-19T16:55:23-04:00November 22nd, 2019|Sarasota, Uncategorized, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Venue Spotlight: The Ringling Museum/ The Ca’ d’Zan

Venue Spotlight: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

Looking for a magical garden to say your " I Do's" in? You can find a botanical bliss with luscious plants and giant trees, at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens. The gardens have a grand ballroom next to the entrance of your beautiful ceremony spot. As you enter through the iron gates, a butter fly garden spills out it's history in flowers and plants near the Sarasota Bay location. With plenty of parking and signage, this is a one stop shop for wedding venues.   Ceremony Locations Marie Selby Gardens gives you plenty of choices for your ceremony space. There is the mansion lawn, and the bay lawn where both views are beautiful. Reception Locations If you want inside or outside, this venue has options for both to look at. Michael’s on the Bay is Sarasota’s premiere indoor event facility that has a modern neutral look to it. The 4,800 square-foot venue has 80 feet of glass windows that provide unobstructed bay and sunset views. The Banyan Tree is when Old Florida meets Southern Charm under this canopy provided by the century old branches. Couples have the option to use one of the exclusive lighting companies to enhance the space with a variety of string lighting installed all-throughout the tree canopy.  

By |2019-08-19T16:07:54-04:00November 9th, 2019|Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Venue Spotlight: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

Venue Spotlight: Zota Beach Resort

Swanky Soiree is so lucky to be located in an area full of beach front venues. Zota Beach Resort located on Longboat Key, Florida has the white sugar sands, and modern look all in one. Zota's event spaces and hotel rooms are just as beautiful as the view given to you when you're here. This resort includes a pool with private cabanas surrounding it, two bars and a restaurant. We have experienced divine and relaxing events held here and couldn't imagine a better place to be. The Beach at Zota Firstly, the beach front property is open to host their visitors and wedding ceremonies alike. There are two entrances to the beach front from the resort, and one is designated for a ceremony processional order. Barefoot brides are welcomed in a tropical setting with the ocean waves as their backdrop. The Sandy Garden This space is adjacent to the pool and cabanas. All sand, and can host 100 people comfortably with a dance floor. Can be used as a cocktail hour, or reception area. If your worried about the sun beating to hard, or rain falling down don't be. You can set up a tent in this area for all weather planning purposes and still look elegant. The Zara Zota Ballroom The ballroom is located on the second floor, filled with contemporary chandeliers and neutral colors. This ballroom is spacious and can host up to 150 people comfortably. All though you don't see the views of the Gulf Coast, it doesn't put a damper into how beautiful the ballroom can be decorated.  

By |2019-08-13T14:30:08-04:00October 7th, 2019|Sarasota, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Venue Spotlight: Zota Beach Resort

Venue Spotlight: The Resort at Longboat Key Club

Whether your planning a beachfront wedding, or a work gala we've got the place for you. The Resort at Longboat Key Club sits comfortably at the waterfront part of Longboat Key, Florida spanning 12,000 square feet of sophisticated function space. Like any resort, you can find rooms, a pool, bar and restaurant. You can also find beaches, golfing, and a marina to park your boat in. They recently have begun a major renovation to update and create a beautiful atmosphere for future visitors that pass through their property. The Longboat Key Club hosts weddings, galas, and corporate events of all kinds. Swanky has had the pleasure of participating in many events here. Today we share some beautiful photos of each space to give you a better idea of it's romantic environment.   The Beaches - North & South Beach With it's lengthy coast line facing the Gulf Coast it's a perfect location to host your ceremony, cocktail hour, and even reception. Space is not an issue, but the weather could be. Good thing Swanky can help with planning for the best and worst situations! We've helped coordinate all of the above, and also had the pleasure of doing stylized shoots here too. Longboat Key Club Moorings Next to their marina features a beautiful lawn and mangroves to set a romantic backdrop for any event. Ceremonies, cocktail hour and receptions a like can be hosted here. Maybe even feature valet boat parking! The Harbourside Ballroom This space is really the bread and butter of event locations at Longboat Key Club. The largest function space with over 5,200 square feet of indoor reception and an outdoor covered terrace, and lawn space for your [...]

By |2019-08-13T13:47:17-04:00September 1st, 2019|Sarasota, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Venue Spotlight: The Resort at Longboat Key Club

Venue Spotlight: Imagine Museum

Part of being an Event Planner requires some knowledge of locating unique and special venues. This helps us advise you on latest place to host your event. If you already have a venue chosen, that is a great start to any party planning! However, we have found that there are clients that approach us and need some direction in venue searching. Today, that direction will be steering you towards St. Petersburg, Florida to the Imagine Museum. As much as Swanky Soiree is home to the Sarasota/Manatee County area we are always open to the greater Tampa Bay area and finding unique places. Our latest site tour visit was with the Social Events Coordinator at the Imagine Museum. From the street it's a contemporary modern building set in cool tones that makes it more inviting in the hot days of summer. As you walk in, the bright whiteness of the front desk and gift shop adds to the sleek modern look. All around are columns and pillars featuring glass art gifts, cards, and jewelry from all over the world. You can't help but browse around and look at how amazing and different the jewelry and knick knacks are. Here is what you can do with this space. The lobby area is large and wide creating an airy flow with soft spot lights in the ceiling to feature their latest glass art.  The bottom floor of the museum is large enough for events of up to 150 people standing or 100 people sitting.  They offer their outside lot for larger events, but consider renting a tent just in case! It's a perfect fit for your business that is seeking a unique spot to host a [...]

By |2019-08-13T11:47:05-04:00August 20th, 2019|Venues|Comments Off on Venue Spotlight: Imagine Museum

Swanky Spotlight: Blaire & Brandon at the Ringling Museum

We are so happy to announce that Strictly Weddings has published one of our weddings we have done! Blaire and Brandon were married at the Ringling Museum of Art’s Ca D’zan on the terrace. They had a beautiful view overlooking the Sarasota Bayfront throughout the entire day. A bright and warm day turned into a romantic evening with soft lights, love and laughter. We are happy to share their photos taken from Limelight Photography. Find the blog article here: Strictly Weddings Blaire & Brandon's Glamorous Wedding   Check out their fabulous vendors: Photographer: Limelight Photography | Venue: The Ringling Museum | Event Planner: Swanky Soiree Events | Florist: Botanica Design Studio | Cinema and Video: Vibe Chaos Productions | Invitation Designer: Crane & Co. | Musicians: Harpist Kristen Elizabeth | Hair Stylist: DESTINY AND LIGHT – HAIR AND MAKEUP | Makeup Artist: Destiny Light | DJ: Jamaal Day | Caterer: Puff n Stuff | Cake Designer: Outrageous Cakes Tampa Bakery | Bridesmaid Dresses: Monique Lhuillier |

By |2019-08-09T15:57:22-04:00August 14th, 2019|Sarasota, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Swanky Spotlight: Blaire & Brandon at the Ringling Museum

Rebecca and Edwin – November 11, 2017 – Mote Marine Aquarium and Laboratory

We loved being a part of Edwin and Rebeccas' Wedding Day! Their contagious smiles lasted from beginning to end and the love their family and friends showed had the Swanky team feeling a new member of their crew too! Congratulations to you both! We wish you both the best as you begin the next chapter of your lives together! Planning, Draping and Lighting, Stationary - Swanky Soiree Venue - Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium Officiant - Wes Bixby Ceremony Music - Samantha Bennett with the Sarasota Orchestra Reception Music - Jah Movement Caterer, Cake & Cupcakes - Mattison's Rentals - US Tent Rental, Linens By The Sea Florist - Beneva Flowers & Plantscapes Photographer - Christina Marie Photography Videography- Jared Serfozo and Nick Friedman Hair and Makeup - Shannon at Urban Designs by Avenue, Urban Designs by Avenue Transportation - Siesta Trolley, Inc

By |2018-08-23T00:11:43-04:00August 13th, 2018|Stationary, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Rebecca and Edwin – November 11, 2017 – Mote Marine Aquarium and Laboratory

Nicole and Shawns Powel Crosley Wedding

We loved planning this beautiful blush Wedding for Nicole and Shawn. Little did we know (or our team of vendors), that we were going to be put to the test! Thank goodness for the calm, cool and collective dispositions of the couple - transitioning to accommodate for the sudden torrential downpour was breeze. And you'll see what I mean once you take a look at their first dance picture. Thank you to all the Vendors that made this day possible: Ceremony Venue: Our Lady Queen of Martyrs Church Reception Venue: Powel Crosley  Planning & Stationary: Swanky Soiree Photographer: Cat Pennenga Photography  Videography: Current Films  Cake: Cakes by Ron Cake Pops: GiGis Cupcakes Dessert: Sub Zero  Hair and Makeup: K. Gamso Hair & Makeup  Catering: Simply Gourmet  Photo Booth: The Fancy Booth  DJ: Jam All Day Entertainment

By |2018-01-15T14:48:50-05:00January 15th, 2018|Cake, Photography, Rentals, Sarasota, Stationary, Table Decor, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Nicole and Shawns Powel Crosley Wedding

Hannah and Donnie’s Longboat Key Club Wedding

  Venue: The Resort at Longboat Key Club  DJ: Music on the Move Florist: Elegant Designs Floral Art Studio Photographer: Todd Gilman Cake: Cakes by Ron Hair and Make up: The Destiny & Light Hair and Makeup Group by Priscilla Marie Lighting, Draping and Coordination by Swanky Soiree

By |2017-12-21T11:31:02-05:00December 19th, 2017|Donuts, Invitations, Photography, Sarasota, Stationary, Table Decor, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Hannah and Donnie’s Longboat Key Club Wedding

Giana and Jorden’s Wedding at the Longboat Key Club

  Venue: The Resort at Longboat Key Club Coordination, Draping, Lighting, & Stationary: Swanky Soiree Ceremony & Cocktail Hour Music: Strings Attached Reception Band: BLONDE AMBITION Linens: Linens By The Sea Cigar Rental: Cigar Creations Florist: Victoria Blooms, LLC P hotographer: Audrey Snow Photography Cake: Cakes by Ron Hair & Make up: Ana Molinari Salon, Spa & Boutique Transportation: Siesta Trolley, Inc      

By |2017-12-15T15:36:39-05:00December 15th, 2017|Arch, Cake, Centerpiece Ideas, Color, Floral, Photography, Rentals, Sarasota, Stationary, Table Decor, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Giana and Jorden’s Wedding at the Longboat Key Club

Tori & Davids Longboat Key Club Wedding

  Venue: The Resort at Longboat Key Club Band: Bay Kings Band Florist: Flower Child Florist & Boutique Photographer: The Portos Videographer: All In White... Cake & Cupcakes: Cakes by Ron Make up & Hair: Lillian Rose Beauty & Bridal Transportation: Siesta Trolley, Inc Coordination & Placecards: Swanky Soiree

By |2017-12-13T13:25:07-05:00December 13th, 2017|Cake, Centerpiece Ideas, Floral, Invitations, Photography, Rentals, Sarasota, Stationary, Table Decor, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Tori & Davids Longboat Key Club Wedding

Leah’s Bat Mitzvah

Leah's Bat Mitzvah was an absolute blast to put together! From the Swanky Donut Wall all the way to the balloon drop - kids and parents were busy on the dance floor all night long! The party starts around the 20 minute mark!   Thank You Venue: Longboat Key Club and Resort, Photobooth & Videographer: Complete SWFL DJ: Staar Entertainment https://vimeo.com/214939090   Congratulations Breanne & Steven! Your Davis Islands Garden Club Wedding was beautiful! #MovieMondays Grant Hemond & Associates, Inc. Olympia Catering & Events Braun's Fine Flowers L. Martin Wedding Photography - click HERE to view pictures! Rod Baker Video Spunky Spirits Bartending Services Makeup and hair by Lili's Weddings  

By |2019-06-12T22:29:38-04:00September 11th, 2017|Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Leah’s Bat Mitzvah

Kaitlyn & Jesse’s Sarasota Garden Club Wedding

We loved being a part of this fun jewel toned wedding! With lots of details supplied by the couple - there was such a personal touch added to this special day! Congratulations to Kaitlyn & Jesse! Venue: Sarasota Garden Club Ceremony & Cocktail Music: Matt Dendy Reception Music: Josh Carol Band Caterer: Carmel Kitchen & Wine Bar Linens: Linens By The Sea Florist: Oneco Florist Photography: NIMA Photography Videography: Eddie Kirsch Cake: Publix at University Walk Draping & Coordination: Swanky Soiree  

By |2019-06-12T22:29:39-04:00August 25th, 2017|DIY, Sarasota, Table Decor, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Kaitlyn & Jesse’s Sarasota Garden Club Wedding

Laura & Fletchers Wedding at the Sarasota Yacht Club

Congratulations Laura & Fletcher! What a beautiful bride!! Your Wedding day had elegant touches of details from beginning to end! We had such a great time working with you to make a night that had your friends and family smiling from ear to ear. #ACrushOnRush Thank you to an amazing team of vendors! Venue: The Sarasota Yacht Club Officiant: A Wedding with Grace Ceremony & Cocktail Hour Music: Jason Hobert Reception Music: No Filter Band Florist: Oneco Florist Photographer: Alisa Sue Photography Videographer: TruColor Productions Cake: Cakes by Ron Hair/Makeup: Rachel's Artistry Transportation: Siesta Trolley    

By |2017-08-25T23:09:42-04:00July 17th, 2017|Centerpiece Ideas, DIY, favors, Floral, Invitations, Photography, Rentals, Sarasota, Stationary, Table Decor, Uncategorized, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Laura & Fletchers Wedding at the Sarasota Yacht Club

Kaitlin and Tim’s Selby Garden Wedding

Congratulations to Kaitlin and Tim! This garden themed wedding had beautiful orchid accents, succulent favors and a whole lot of elegant love! Venue: Selby Gardens DJ and Photobooth: Jam All Day  Caterer: Simply Gourmet  Rentals: Tampa Lighting Florist: Oneco Florist  Photographer: Alisa Sue Photography Cake: Pastries by Design  Hair & Makeup: Kelsey Gamso  This wedding was also featured on Wedding Wire!!

By |2017-08-25T23:09:31-04:00July 11th, 2017|Cake, Centerpiece Ideas, Color, Floral, Invitations, Photography, Rentals, Sarasota, Stationary, Table Decor, Trending, Uncategorized, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Kaitlin and Tim’s Selby Garden Wedding

Brianna and David’s Longboat Key Club Wedding

The love between these two didn't go unnoticed! Especially on their wedding day! May your love flourish for all eternity! Venue: The Resort Longboat Key Club - Spike's N Tees Ceremony Music: Kristen Antolik  Reception Music: Dennis Lee Florals: Victoria Blooms  Photographer: Shaina DeCiryan  Cake: Cakes by Ron Makeup: Krista Worth   

By |2017-08-25T23:09:22-04:00July 7th, 2017|Cake, Centerpiece Ideas, DIY, favors, Floral, Sarasota, Table Decor, Uncategorized, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Brianna and David’s Longboat Key Club Wedding