Food Truck Fun!

  A popular trend in wedding cuisine in 2016 is the introduction of food trucks into your wedding reception! Food trucks are also a great way to keep planning a little less stressful. No need for entree counts and place card designations when hosting food trucks. A fun and interesting way to keep guests both happily fed and entertained, many couples are hosting a full out food truck food feast! Tiny trucks, big fun Consider something a little whimsical during cocktail hour. A small bites food truck is a great way to kick off the party! Having a shiny push cart filled with mini hot dogs and burgers is a fun way to welcome guests to the evening. Complete the look with a custom sign on the cart, and server dressed in garb! Another fun way to kick off the night cart style, an espresso cart. Get some caffeine in your guests so they can party all night! Variety Rocks! From tacos to lobster rolls. Pulled pork sandwiches to pizza, the options for what you want to pull up to feed your guests are endless! When choosing food trucks, it's important to consider all your guests. Make sure there is enough variety to satisfy all by offering salads and healthy options. A great plus to food trucks is the ability to do this! Hosting a vegetarian truck would not only please your vegetarians, but also those who just like veggies and healthy options. Have fun when choosing what options to offer your guests, but be sure to be mindful, over indulging in many food truck options can be difficult on the budget.   Dessert Trucks Too?? Of Course! Couples are having a lot of fun [...]

By |2019-06-12T22:29:53-04:00July 31st, 2016|Trending, Weddings|Comments Off on Food Truck Fun!

Breathing and planning!

Hello everyone! We are officially in spring and I am extremely excited to say we have tons of amazing work ahead of us. With this busy season I thought it would be appropriate to blog on “easy planning”. We all know how hectic it can get trying to plan for your magical day and also keep up with your day to day schedule. No worries!! Here are some steps on how to get the wedding you really want; without the stress and pressure that usually comes with.   1. Don't rush! Find your planner. So that “embracing the moment” is easier done than said. Trust us when we say having a planner by your side allows you to take the time and bask in the “just engaged glow. We are there to pretty much hold your sanity in our hands as you hit these next few steps. Big or small wedding? Date, time and where. Outdoor or indoor? Budgeting Theme Finding your bridal style and overall look can be time consuming, trying to get everything together to get an idea of the final masterpiece gets stressful. Tackling those steps head-on can make the overachieving decisions less of a headache. 2.Communication and Organization! Once you’ve figured out the basics it’s good to have a sit-down with all parties involved. Discuss everything from budget to responsibilities, no questions unanswered. Making a checklist for all of your vendors is always an easy way to not accidentally leave anything out and to focus on the things that really matter to you and save $ on the things that don’t. *Don’t panic! I promise the fun stuff is coming! Quick tips- #Make a list of items that our important to you, rank them, and [...]

By |2019-06-12T22:29:54-04:00March 7th, 2016|Weddings|Comments Off on Breathing and planning!

Kelsie & Austin’s Siesta Key Wedding

Ceremony Location: Sunset Beach Resort Siesta Key Reception Location:Sunset Beach Resort Siesta Key Donuts : La Dona Donuts Caterer: Sarasota Catering Company Food Truck: Baja Boys  Florist: Tiger Lilly Wedding Planning: Swanky Soiree Events DJ: Delite Entertainment Photographer: Alisa Sue Photography Rentals:  Swanky Soiree Events Stationary: Swanky Soiree Events I just loved Kelsie & Austin's wedding! Not only was I a wedding guest but we also helped her plan for the Big Day. She pretty much nailed down all of her vendors within a couple of months ans knew exactly what she wanted. The vibe was a elegant laid back wedding at a private residence on Siesta Key. This venue had SO much to offer. It slept a lot of the bride and grooms family, had a pool, a awesome yard and a private beach with a bon fire. You really can't get much better. Kelsie and Austin did appetizers and a food truck style reception with no formal dinner time. I really like that concept of a less formal dinner and a more casual hang out and socialize style. Delite did a great job of keeping the party going and everyone danced all night. We even extended the reception another hour. This is one of the  perks of a private residence verses a venue where you have to be out at a certain time.  Her colors where champagnes, gold with pops of burgundy, purples and fuchsia in the bouquets and table arrangements. The day was just absolutely perfect, best weather, best friends and family and a amazing couple. Congrats to you both!! We love you!

By |2019-06-12T22:29:54-04:00February 9th, 2016|Rentals, Sarasota, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Kelsie & Austin’s Siesta Key Wedding

2016 spring wedding color trends

These colors are gorgeous and perfect to combine for the perfect wedding day. They vary from bold and beautiful to soft and romantic!! They scream spring time is here.   Here are some fantastic color pallet examples showing you what colors look great with each other.  

By |2019-06-12T22:29:55-04:00January 15th, 2016|Color, Trending|Comments Off on 2016 spring wedding color trends

Talk wedding to me!! 2016 wedding trends.

1.(BALLOONS)Dip balloons in gold glitter for a glamorous, fun effect. If you’re having a sit-down dinner, tie one to the back of each chair.Otherwise, fill them with helium and let them fill the ceiling of your venue. 2.(FLOWER TOSS)This one is a bit different. Every girl gets a key tries to see if she holds the key. Nice alternative to the traditional bouquet toss. 3.(hourglass) Unity sand ceremony being done with an hourglass. fun twist for the bride and groom to join their two life's and two families into a single bond of love. 4.(floating flours) Inexpensive, eye catching and creative. This is such a fun centerpiece for each guest table. 5.(globe lights) Instead of stringing them across, let them fall. Makes for a perfect back drop. 6.(lace runner)  throw a lace runner over your table linens and create a much more elegant look on each table for the reception. 7.(Polaroid seating) have each guest find their card with their name and seat on it and have them replace it with a Polaroid of them. when finished it creates a huge string of pictures of all of your guests. 8.(card box) have all your guest that have cards place them in a mailbox that the two of you decorated. 9.(lanterns) table lanterns are such an easy accessory to have on any table. place small or big lanterns around reception and or cocktail tables. 10.(chandelier) hang the chandelier over ceremony and or reception area. creates such a beautiful look. Always a great addition.

By |2019-06-12T22:29:55-04:00December 21st, 2015|Trending, Weddings|Comments Off on Talk wedding to me!! 2016 wedding trends.

Dana & Seth’s Powel Crosley Mansion Wedding

Reception Location: Powel Crosley Mansion Sarasota, FL Sweets : Sub Zero Ice cream Caterer: Sixteen Seventeen  Florist: The Perfect Settings Wedding Planning & Coordination: Swanky Soiree Events Music: Pete Simms Guitarist Photographer: Johnna Brynn Photography Rentals:  US Tent Rentals Hair & Make Up: Kelsey Gamso, Fresh Salon Dana and Seth's wedding at the Powel Crosley was so beautiful and romantic. Between the gorgeous venue and beautiful couple, it was just PERFECT.  A wonderful day filled with lots of love and laughter. The colors were blush, neutrals and pops of mercury centerpieces. Dana added custom touches to the tables by giving them each different names that meant something to the couple. This was such a great way to personalize their wedding. The evil R word (rain) showed its face late in the evening but the party kept going. They even got some great dancing in the rain shots.

By |2019-06-12T22:29:58-04:00July 26th, 2015|Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Dana & Seth’s Powel Crosley Mansion Wedding

The Biggest Wedding Trends for 2015

We always tell our clients to make their events there own. Meaning it should speak to who you are either individually or as a couple. The result of this will make your event fun, personal and unique. You want to wow your guests and have them talking about  how swanky your wedding or event was. With 2015 weddings I think this is really becoming more of a trend and people are taking the time to personalize there day. With that said here are some of the trends you will see in 2015. Photo Credit: Tracey Sanders The Looks for 2015 weddings and events British Invasion You can give credit to Princess Kate and Downtown Abbey for these swanky details that embrace afternoon tea and garden parties. You will see uncovered wood tables finished with a elegant vintage lace cloth or runner. Beautiful lush garlands used as runners and loosely styled floral centerpieces. And yes we are bringing back the cozy brunch with homemade pastries. Another great thing about this style of event is that you can save a ton of money. Breakfast and lunch parties or receptions are much cheaper then dinner. So if you are on a budget, consider this. Modern Luxe This is a more sophisticated version of romance. The color palates are clean with bold pops. Shades of white or ivory with bursts of poppy red. Neutral colors with bright pops. This look would incorporate square chairs with clear ghost chairs, geometric place settings, monogrammed napkins and sculptured floral arrangements. Eclectic Elegance This one is our favorite. It falls between the grand wedding and romance. When I think of romance, I think a small intimate affair but this year we are bringing [...]

By |2019-06-12T22:30:00-04:00January 29th, 2015|Trending, Weddings|Comments Off on The Biggest Wedding Trends for 2015

2015 Pantone Color of the Year is Marsala

Marsala has been named Pantones Color of the year. I love this color for a fall/winter wedding. Its so romantic and rich. "Much like the fortified wine that gives Marsala its name, this tasteful hue embodies the satisfying richness of a fulfilling meal," Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute said. "This hearty-yet-stylish tone is universally appealing and translates easily to fashion, beauty, industrial design, home furnishings and interiors." Heres a little style board we put together for design  direction. Its romantic, vintage and sophisticated.

By |2015-01-18T21:41:38-05:00January 18th, 2015|Color, Holiday Party, Party Decor, Table Decor, Weddings|Comments Off on 2015 Pantone Color of the Year is Marsala

GLAMOROUS OCEANFRONT BLUSH AND GOLD WEDDING

We are so excited to announce that this oceanfront blush and gold wedding is featured today in The Every Last Detail Blog. Swanky Soiree was the Day of Coordinator for Ashley & Ryan's Wedding at the Beautiful Gasparilla Inn in Boca Grande Florida. We had so much fun working with this couple through the planning process to the day of. What (or who) helped you most in your planning process and/or on your wedding day? I did not have a wedding planner so I did most of it myself. Pinterest and Etsy were huge in helping me plan my wedding. My older sister and now sister-in-law were also a huge inspiration and help since they had both recently gotten married before me. I decided to get a day of coordinator last minute and let me tell you, it was the BEST DECISION I made! I seriously would have been lost without Christina Harris with Swanky Soiree Events. She saved the day in so many ways! To read more about this fabulous wedding click on the link below: http://theeverylastdetail.com/glamorous-oceanfront-blush-gold-wedding/#.VGN2IxiVa60.facebook Photo Credit to Concept Photography

By |2014-11-12T11:19:22-05:00November 12th, 2014|Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on GLAMOROUS OCEANFRONT BLUSH AND GOLD WEDDING

Fall Event and Fashion Colors

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 [...]

By |2019-06-12T22:30:02-04:00September 17th, 2014|Centerpiece Ideas, christmas, Holiday Party, Party Decor, Table Decor, Themed Parties, Trending, Uncategorized, Weddings|Comments Off on Fall Event and Fashion Colors

Suit Trends for the Modern Day Groom

Finally we have something for the groom. I know we post a lot of helpful things for the brides and I am so glad we can share some cool groom and groomsmen trends. Black-tie formal: Tuxes Buy it or rent one, get it fitted, and you’re good to go. Formal: Black or a dark neutral-colored suit. Use accessories to give your suit a good pop of color. Semi-formal: Suits made out of more casual materials. This would best apply to beach weddings, summer weddings, country weddings, or other weddings of a similar nature. Casual: Nice slacks, long-sleeved shirt, tie, jacket optional. No jeans.  When attending a wedding, keep in mind that it’s better to be overdressed (only slightly though. Don’t show up in a tux to a semi-H Here are some up and coming suit trends for the groom to be that bring a modern day twist to the classic tuxedo. 1. Bow Ties- this is a fun way to spice up your suit and add some personality. Get a little crazy with pops of colors and patterns groom bowtie. Photo Credit: Z Media on Shi Shi Events via Lover.ly       photo credit: greenweddingshoes 2. Suspenders-Are classic but  have made a come back. Its a great option for your groomsmen and ring bearer too! photo credit: erganicevents photo credit: weddingsbygeorgia 3. Add some color with Ties and Socks photo credit: splendid northwest    

By |2019-06-12T22:30:02-04:00August 10th, 2014|Trending, Weddings|Comments Off on Suit Trends for the Modern Day Groom

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

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.

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 [...]

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 [...]

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

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

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

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

DIY Curly Willow Arch

Love this look. I would add hanging Swarovski crystals for a added sparkle. All you need is: 12 Stems of about 7' Tall curly willow branches 10 Stems of medium curly willow branches 1 Large bag of sand 2 large planters Twine wire Wire cutters Sheet moss to cover the sand in the planter Add some flowers and you have a beautiful inexpensive arch!!!!

By |2013-09-04T19:42:01-04:00September 4th, 2013|Arch, Weddings|Comments Off on DIY Curly Willow Arch