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Finding Fall Florals

Finding a perfect florist that fits in your budget is important. Another key factor is what flowers are in season during the time of your wedding. This can lead into budget friendly bouquets, and a variety of looks you have available for that time. Autumn is a time where blooming flowers tend to slow down, however there are still summer flower that often continue to bloom well into the fall. Marigolds are fuller looking flowers that come in orange or yellow. Bright and colorful, they can be used in bouquets, or garland seen in Indian culture weddings.   Carnations are a popular flower to add to any bouquet. They come in all different colors, pair best with almost any flower and greenery. Also very inexpensive! Chrysanthemums  flowers come in multiple colors and sizes. They can be big and beautiful and make great pops to any wedding bouquet. Roses are red, and white, and pink, and yellow and a timeless classic. They come in all colors, shapes , and sizes! Daisies have several different varieties and are found usually towards the end of summer going into fall. They make for great fillers, or just solely on their own. These flowers are also super cute and fun and can make for a great crown! Lilies also come in different variety's and are fragrant and colorful. If you're looking for a timeless white wedding Calla Lillie's are your piece to add to your decor. Goldenrod flowers are a great filler, and make for a great pop of color to any piece. Great for a fall look or even a bright spring look! Alstroemeria bears [...]

By |2019-08-02T13:15:11-04:00October 16th, 2019|Arch, Floral, Weddings|Comments Off on Finding Fall Florals
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A Fairy Tale Wedding

We had done a Nerdy Nuptials post recently, but what we didn't add in there was Disney themed ideas. There is so many different ways to incorporate Disney into your wedding. Whether it's all the movies or just one, we felt that it deserved it's own blog post. From magical venues in the area, to silly decor items and displays you can add just a touch, or add it all! If you are wanting a wedding at the actual Cinderella Castle in Disney World be prepared for the following. In order to have your ceremony in front of the castle, which allows for just 100 people and a ceremony time of 9:30 a.m. sharp, there is a $25,000 minimum fee. That's excluding food and beverage and other expenditure minimums, which could total up to $75,000 or more. We find that most of our couples don't have that large of a budget for their wedding day. Instead, here are some fun ideas you can do for your wedding!    Draping & Lighting I started this one first because there are millions of pictures on our website, pinterest, and facebook where you can see how beautiful lights and chiffon draping are. For a magic touch and feeling a ceiling piece with draping and chandeliers can make quite the difference in ambiance. Add a touch of colored uplights around the room and it makes truly unforgettable.   Centerpieces With Disney, you can focus on one movie or all of them. Each table can be a different centerpiece based on a different movie. Adding little items like gold or silver mercury votive candles, and candelabras can make an elegant touch. Also, beautiful flowers that coincide with the [...]

By |2019-07-25T15:57:03-04:00October 12th, 2019|Centerpiece Ideas, Dessert, favors, Party Decor, Table Decor, Themed Parties, Weddings|Comments Off on A Fairy Tale Wedding
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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
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National Taco Day

It's National Taco Day and why not feature the beloved taco in your wedding menu! "Taco Bout Love" is a great way to set the tone for your evening. Tacos, are normally a good item to have if your doing food stations. Your guests can make their own custom tacos stuffed with meats or veggies of their liking. Destination weddings can feature fish tacos with the local catch, and add fresh mango salsa to the side. Complete your menu with fun themed cupcakes that have taco toppings or a taco on top of it made out of fondant. Taco About Buffet Displays   Fun Signage

By |2019-07-18T17:33:24-04:00October 4th, 2019|Party Decor, Weddings|Comments Off on National Taco Day
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Nerdy Nuptials

Here at Swanky, we love to get to know our couples and their favorite interests and hobbies. There are couples that have all kinds of fun activities and favorite movies or shows that bring them together. Each category in this blog are different ideas we have seen at events, online, or through posts. These all come from other vendors and couples that got their creativity on when trying to include their personalities through their decor. You will find most of them include a comic, a favorite move or tv series, or roll playing games such as World of Warcraft and Dungeons & Dragons. We love helping get that nerdy touch to your special day! The creativity, and imagination behind each piece or detail really reflects the couple together as a whole. Plus, why wouldn't you want to share that with your friends and family!? We only hope that this post will help spark your creative touch when looking into ways to incorporate the, maybe not so traditional, decor items. Star Wars Theme In the different lands of space and time there are several ways to incorporate some Star Wars into your wedding. From signs, to storm trooper props, cake toppers and centerpieces you can't go wrong in any of these aspects! The Comic-Con like Weddings are great for an nontraditional (but traditional) wedding, especially including the lightsaber send off. It will definitely be a wedding to remember! Harry Potter Theme When muggles marry and they incorporate their favorite childhood story of a wizard boy saving the world it is truly magical. Many of these photos don't capture half of the creativity out there to include the Wizarding World of Harry Potter into your [...]

By |2019-08-01T11:37:03-04:00September 20th, 2019|Themed Parties, Weddings|Comments Off on Nerdy Nuptials
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Puppy Love at Weddings

The latest trend, that hopefully never dies down, is including your furry friend on your special day. Some couples have human babies, and some have furry babies. Your babies, no matter human or animal, big or small, mean a lot to you and of course you want them to take "Paw-t" in your day! If this is an important decision to make, choosing a venue that is pet-friendly is a definite must. Most outdoor venues, are dog friendly. If your ceremony is on the beach, make sure to check local regulations about dogs being allowed on the beach. There are so many ways to include your pet, starting from Save the Date photos, and ending with Reception fun. Here are some fun ideas to incorporate your furry friend so they don't miss out on the paw-ty either!   Pre-Wedding Photo Fun Save-the-Dates, along with Engagement & Wedding announcements have grown in spreading the word with a photo shoot. Clever ways to intertwine your pup in pictures are accompanying him/her with signs or bandanas that say, "Dog of Honor" or "Best Dog". A photographer that has patience, loves animals, and a drive to get the right picture makes the perfect equation for a perfect announcement. But don't let your pup steal the spotlight, get that one "money shot" and let your dog be a dog.  Here are some cute photos and examples of what couples are doing to spread the word of their engagement!   Ceremony Canines Pets are known to help reduce anxiety. Before you walk down the aisle, spend a few moments snuggling your sweet pooch. If doing programs, list your pooch as a bridesmaid or a groomsmen. Another great way to [...]

By |2019-07-17T17:30:43-04:00September 10th, 2019|Uncategorized, Weddings|Comments Off on Puppy Love at Weddings
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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
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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
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National S’mores Day

Did you know that on August 10th it is National S'mores Day! The beloved dessert that is a classic to have on camping trips, or bonfire parties. There are plenty of weddings thrown in rustic wooded areas, or even in a backyard. Is your party venue not out doors? No worries,  take a spin off the traditional cake and provide s'mores instead! Some outdoor venues will have open fire pits where you can have a station set up. If not, be creative and provide candles, or tiki torches around the station for small roasting.   If roasting marshmallows is hard to have available for your event, incorporate them as favors. Cute little bags put together with the necessary items and a clever thank you tag is all you need!   Don't forget about adding some fun and clever signage to your event. There are always silly puns to intertwine with your event! Signage can make for great photo opportunities, and sometimes the little details really can make the difference that sets other events apart.   Have a Happy S'more Day from Swanky Soiree! I might just go roast one myself now.

By |2019-07-13T09:31:01-04:00August 10th, 2019|Dessert, favors, Party Decor, Weddings|Comments Off on National S’mores Day
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Feature in Marry Me Tampa Bay

Swanky Soiree is happy to announce that we have been featured in a blog post with Marry Me Tampa Bay! This feature was from Brittany & Gregory's destination Sarasota Wedding. They were married at Longboat Key Club and partnered with some amazing vendors.  To view the feature clink the link below and enjoy the beautiful wedding we were part of. https://marrymetampabay.com/elegant-tropical-destination-sarasota-wedding-the-resort-at-longboat-key-club/

By |2019-07-26T14:22:03-04:00July 26th, 2019|Weddings|Comments Off on Feature in Marry Me Tampa Bay
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National Tequila Day

Did you know, on the National Day Calendar, July 24th is National Tequila Day?! This calendar has been published with some wacky holidays. However, here at Swanky, we love any excuse to celebrate! Here are some ideas to mix in some tequila to add to any celebration on that date! Other than Margaritas, there are other specialty drinks to offer to your guests at your event. Tequila Sunrises are good for destination weddings on the beach. If you are having a brunch reception Bloody Maria's are similar to Bloody Mary's, instead they incorporate tequila instead of vodka!   Tequila themed favors and place cards are a great way to get the party started. Your guests can indulge in some fun before the main event even starts! But, your guests shouldn't be the only ones getting their tequila on. Some wedding ceremonies have included a "marriage unity" shot as part of their process.   As always, you can't have a party with tequila and not have some fun signage. Small signs with amusing sayings can be great for photo opportunities or making sure the vibe is just right. Don't forget to drink responsibly!

By |2019-07-13T09:06:59-04:00July 24th, 2019|favors, Themed Parties, Weddings|Comments Off on National Tequila Day
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Swanky Spotlight: Siobhan & James Murley

We are so lucky that Siobhan and James booked Swanky for full planning services! The couple is from Canada and a destination wedding at Longboat Key was their dream that we made happen. A bright sunny day, nice breeze and beautiful decor made for a perfect evening. This couple liked to have fun and the reception was not different, it even featured a pinata! Thank you to all the vendors for making this day fabulous! Photography: Concept Photography // Venue: The Resort at Longboat Key Club // Officiant: Kevin Kiser // Dessert: Cakes by Ron // Dj: TLS Entertainment // Photobooth: Be Scene Photobooth // Florist: Oneco Florist // Linens: Linens by the Sea // Hair & Makeup: Destiny & Light  

By |2019-06-27T13:05:29-04:00July 8th, 2019|Arch, Cake, Rentals, Weddings|Comments Off on Swanky Spotlight: Siobhan & James Murley
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Don’t Stress about the Dress!

Here at Swanky Soiree, we admire every aspect of a wedding, including the dress! When wedding dress shopping, it can be overwhelming with the amount of options available. So many different styles of sleeves & necklines, lengths, jewels, lace, and trains! Some dresses even have pockets now! When trying dresses on, you ultimately will feel if it is right for you or not. Doing some research of dress styles prior to the appointment can help. You might be in love with one style, and try on another that is completely different and get that one. Here is some helpful lingo of types of wedding dresses to help decide which style fits best. You know your body type better than anyone, the dress should compliment it! A-Line: Not as large and in charge as the ballgown. A-Line gowns can resembles the figure “A” (literally) as it is more fitted through the waist and gently gets fuller from the waist to the hem. Tends to best for all body types! Modified A-Line: The modified A-Line is less dramatic than the A-Line with a skirt that is looser than the traditional version. Very flowy and quite comfortable! Ballgown: What every Disney Princess wears! With a fitted bodice and a pouf at the waist that then turns into a full skirt for the dramatic effect. Short girls may not want this one. Mermaid: The mermaid gown tends to be a tighter-fitting dress. The dress is fitted down to the knees, where then the dress begins its dramatic pouf and flair. This is a style that is great for women with an hourglass figure. Mini: The mini dress is well, mini. The dress falls above the knee. May be a [...]

By |2019-07-02T10:44:01-04:00July 5th, 2019|Weddings|Comments Off on Don’t Stress about the Dress!
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#FunFactFriday

In Old English Folklore Saturday is believed to be the unluckiest wedding day. Funny—it's the most popular day of the week to marry now! It's important to find a day of the week and date that matters to you and your guests. Most of the time, Monday-Thursday is usually cheaper for venues, and other vendors used. Friday-Sunday is more popular to be booked which increases prices not only for wedding vendors, but also air fare and hotel rooms for guests.

By |2019-06-20T17:19:36-04:00June 28th, 2019|#FunFactFriday, Weddings|Comments Off on #FunFactFriday
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Swanky Spotlight: Jessie & Derek

Jessie & Derek are a sweet and fun loving couple that booked us for month of planning and design. It was a pleasure lighting up their dance floor and getting to see both Jewish and Christian faiths come together. A beautiful evening with nothing but the sun shining through and the spring florals in full bloom set the mood right! This local couple had much to celebrate with their blended traditional fun. The dance floor was complete with the tradition of Jewish and American moves, and were happy to share it with close family and friends. Thank you to all the vendors that made their day special! Venue: The Powel Crosley Estate // Caterer: Good Food Events + Catering // Photographer: Rising Lotus Photography // Videographer: JSmedia // Band: Bay Kings // Hair & Makeup: The Destiny & Light Hair and Makeup Group by Priscilla Marie // Cake: A Piece of Cake // Florals: Kathy Gilbert // Photo Booth: Snapshoot Photo Booth [/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

By |2019-06-20T17:24:14-04:00June 18th, 2019|Uncategorized, Weddings|Comments Off on Swanky Spotlight: Jessie & Derek
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Wedding Day Games for Guests

Bored with the traditional bouquet and garter toss? We are in the day and age of old traditions getting transformed into something new and different. Trends are popular, but traditions are forever, right? Some couples, may find the idea of a bouquet toss and garter toss not something they want to incorporate in their night (which is totally ok!). Especially when a single older aunt may have caught the bouquet, and a younger groomsman may have caught the garter. Lucky for that aunt she will get the garter up her leg, but may make the groomsmen feel a little uncomfortable! If you want to incorporate something different into your night and still involve the crowd here are some fun games that have been popular the past couple of years. The Shoe Game! To set up the game, you just need two chairs and the groom and brides’ shoes. The Bride will hold one of her shoes, and one of the groom’s shoes. Same goes for the groom. He will hold one of his shoes, and one of her shoes. The Bride and Groom will be sat on the dance floor with their backs to each other. The Dj asks a series of questions like, “who asked who out on the first date” or “who made the first kiss” or “who cooks better”. The bride and groom will lift the “his” or “her” shoe to each question without looking at each other. It’s funny if they don’t match up and if they do match up, well we know it was meant to be!Who takes the Cake! This is a simple and easy way to get that honeymoon fund built up if you know your family and [...]

By |2019-06-12T22:29:21-04:00May 30th, 2019|Trending, Weddings|Comments Off on Wedding Day Games for Guests
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Shannon and Dylan – September 24, 2018 – Sarasota Yacht Club

To say we are SWOONING over these pictures of Shannon and Dylans Wedding just isn't enough! So many gorgeous details we just can't even deal! It was a beautiful setting on the Sarasota Bay Front - the weather was absolutely perfect! The Sarasota Yacht Club holds home to a stunning backdrop of boats, water and palm trees. We had so much fun planning along side Shannon. As her full wedding coordinators we assisted in finding the perfect vendors that would make her vision come to life!   Thank you to such an amazing team of vendors Venue:: Sarasota Yacht Club Officiant:: I Do Ceremonies Florist:: Oh Darling Events DJ:: Breezin Entertainment Photography:: Cat Penenga Cake:: Cakes by Ron Car:: Revvies Classic Hair and Makeup:: Krista Worth Beauty   Linens and Dancefloor :: Linens By The Sea Full Event Planning, Rentals, Draping, Lighting, Stationary - Swanky Soiree

By |2018-12-21T08:10:20-05:00December 21st, 2018|Arch, Uncategorized, Weddings|Comments Off on Shannon and Dylan – September 24, 2018 – Sarasota Yacht Club
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How to create the Perfect Guest List

We've heard it time and time again! "We said we were only inviting 100 people. Our guest list is at 140 now but I know a lot of my family won't be able to come." Invitations go out. RSVPs come back and all of a sudden you realize your third cousins sister on your moms side who you thought wouldn't attend, wants to come and has a family of 5! And only 6 people declined! Your budget for 100 people just went drastically over And before you know it you are in way over your head. PLEASE. If there is one bit of advice we can give you for making your guest list it's this: Only plan for 10% of your guest list to decline. But before you get to the point of having GSR (Guest List Regret) we've got some great tips to help keep you at ease. Consider these three things before you start your list: What is your venues maximum capacity? This should be a no brainer - but DON'T invite more guests than your venue allows. What is your budget? Have you received a quote for a certain amount of guests yet? (This is crucial!) Getting a quote from your caterer/venue is a great starting point in figuring out your budget and per person cost. What is your personal preference as far as style and ambiance? This is entirely up to you. If you have a large venue and want to have a intimate wedding- awesome! Now - who to invite? And who gets priority over the next person? Are there names flying through your brain from left and right? No worries - If it makes you feel better, you can have tiered [...]

By |2019-06-12T22:29:24-04:00October 11th, 2018|Weddings|Comments Off on How to create the Perfect Guest List
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Christina and Daniel – April 28, 2018 – Ringling Museum – Wedding Video

We LOVE wedding videos! https://vimeo.com/271373986 Be sure to check out our Portfolio section to see their wedding pictures! We couldn't do it with out this amazing team of vendors! Venue: Ca' d'Zan at the The John and Mabel Ringling Museum of Art Officiant: Scott Lortz with Weddings and Wellness DJ: Goodley Entertainment Group Band: Alowicious Catering & Bartender: Modern Events Rentals & Florist:So Staged Linens: Over The Top Linens Photographer: Justin DeMutiis Photography Cake: Cakes by Ron Hair and Makeup: Brides by Kelly Anne Transportation: Siesta Trolley, Inc

By |2019-06-12T22:29:25-04:00October 1st, 2018|Wedding Video, Weddings|Comments Off on Christina and Daniel – April 28, 2018 – Ringling Museum – Wedding Video
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Edwin and Rebecca – November 11, 2017 -Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium

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! 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 |2018-08-22T23:51:30-04:00September 26th, 2018|Uncategorized, Weddings|Comments Off on Edwin and Rebecca – November 11, 2017 -Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium
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