It's Holiday Season!

I love the holiday season! In my family, we celebrate both Chanukah and Christmas so we have lots of parties together! When I was planning my wedding I used the holiday season to catch up with relatives I hadn't seen in years. Before coming to any party, I made sure I brought my address book. I double checked everyones address and made updates right there with them. If any friends or relatives didn't have the chance to join the party - there was always someone there who would pull out an address book with the info I was missing. Don't forget to check the telephone and cell number as well - just in case you need to RSVP by phone! What the heck - while your at it -get the email too! I am the type of person who multitasks without even thinking about it. So, using these times was a no-brainer! In my mind, I go through "what-if" scenarios. What if I send their invite to the wrong address and It comes back with ugly red stamps "Not at this address". I couldn't have that on my beautiful invitations - with special extra postage! No way! I would have to toss it and start over - that's like tossing $$ in the trash!! Especially a waste if I had the calligraphy done! I would have to go back and have that one envelope done over. Who wants to add to their "to-do" list six weeks before their wedding! Absolutely, No way!! So, take advantage of seeing your relatives and take a moment to update your address book! It only takes a moment and costs nothing! If you don't have an address book - get one - you'll definitely need a proper one as a married woman! Have a Happy Holiday - whichever one you celebrate - and don't forget your address book!

Location Sweet Location...

I know what you are doing now that you have that shiny new ring! I know that you are researching those venues! You're trying to select a menu and with all of those options - none of it makes sense. So you contact the venue to get clarification. It's sounds good and you set an appointment for a tour. You and your fiance drive out, take the tour, ask a lot of questions and leave with a beautiful packet. Multiply that times 16 and here you are, on The Rare Affair website. It's OK!! I've been there with lots of brides on those tours and I know it can be overwhelming. I bet you are wishing you could take the view from one place, take the menu from another, pricing from another, convenience from this one or that one. I promise you, this IS the worst part of planning your wedding. It truly is like searching for a house. The investment is probably close to a down payment as it is! The best way to decide - take your top three, pretend they were all exact in price - now, which would you choose? Take that favorite and make a call to the salesperson that took you on your tour and negotiate. Start with your budget and tell them that the package price they create for you must include all taxes and services fees for X number of guests. See what they come up with. The package is for their convenience - not yours and I know my clients have NEVER fit into those boxes. Do you have to cut your guest list to make budget - maybe. Do you have to forgo specialty linens - maybe. But if the location is right for you and your budget, there are always minor sacrifices. Be flexible and you will not regret your decision.

Foxy Fifties!

While watching Good Morning America's Bridal segment this morning I couldn't help but notice the style of this years wedding gowns. We are going back to the 50's. Could it be that the Mad Men hit is creeping to our everyday style to include weddings. YES!! I love this style. I have been saying for about a year now, that we are reverting back to basics. The local butcher is coming back, farmers markets are huge and stay at home moms are making casseroles instead of ordering take-out. The trend in weddings lately has been the destination wedding - it really does save money. But, there is also the cocktail reception allowing brides to thumb their nose at gala events. I loved to see the cocktail length wedding dress and it brought back memories of when war brides would go into city hall to take their vows. They would be decked out in these fantastic suits, grand corsages and netted pillbox hats. What a classic look! I also noticed that the ballgowns were very similar to those coverlets your grandmother had on her bed. When I was a child, I would follow those soft zig-zag lines with my finger until I drifted off to sleep. While I am sure you don't want to look like you're wearing the old blanket from the hall closet - it really did look soft and gave great texture to the look. Are the 50's coming back, maybe. Am I worried? Absolutely not - that was the era where a woman looked like a woman - curvacious, feminine and delicious! Classic Femme - is there any other way to be on your wedding day?

A Beautiful Day!

Today I was honored to attend the wedding of Pamela & Linda in Marblehead. What made this wedding fabulous was there were no photographers, no caterers, no linens, cake or even guests. Just the one most important feature - love. I have always said - there is nothing that you can purchase to make a wedding special, rather, it is the people that are getting married that make it special. From that moment on, they will be the only two working through sickness and health, richness and poorness, good times and bad - together. They will be the ones who matter to each other for the many years to come. They will lean on each other and overcome any obstacle that comes before them because of that love. That love, joined together, is what gives them the strength to overcome and enjoy. For this reason, I was honored to be a part of their day. Love is why I do what I do. Everyone has love to give and the capacity to accept it. But, it is rare to see it live.

Head of The State Room

Last night, I was one of the priviledged to be invited to The State Room in Boston to open the holiday season. Let me tell you, if you want a view of the city - this is where you need to be. Every section of this room has unbelievable views - without having to look down! The food stations - there were too many to choose from - but I did anyway! I sampled selections from the ocean and earth, starting with my favorite crab cakes and yummy garlic mussels and ending with a decadent chocolate display. In between, I ate some french fries in these adorable little brown bags, salmon bites and yummy sheeps milk Hors d'oeurves. The State Rooms' presentation was flawless as usual and the room decor was gorgeous! I had so much fun seeing my old friends and making new ones - it really was a fun group! I can't wait to work with them in the new year and had a fabulous time! If you would like a tour of The State Room - call my friend Elaine Twombley. She will show you the world - literally!

WEDDING INSURANCE!!!!

What a nightmare!! About a week ago there was a huge clammor amongst wedding industry friends of mine about the sudden closure of The Georgetown Club in Georgetown, MA. They locked their doors and filed for bankruptcy protection. Employees suddenly have no job, creditors are not paid and the worst part - brides getting married that weekend and in the very near future - have no place to hold their reception. What I really hoped was that some of those brides invested in wedding insurance. In the past, this type of insurance was thought of as an unneccesary expense. In many cases it was due to their confidence that their venue is a landmark or otherwise well known facility in seeimingly good financial health. Wedding planners usually hear via the underground when some vendors or even venues are on shaky financial ground. We like to keep others in the know if they do decide to go with that vendor and make their own decisions. But, with the recent closing of the Georgetown Club, what about your florist? How about the limo company. Protection is there for couples to make sure they recoup their financials but what happens a week before your wedding and the venue closes? If you have a planner - there is always a plan B. We have the resources, we make the calls, we can negotiate a better deal and make sure you have all the information needed to make fast decisions. Get all the information you can about insurance and make a decision that is best for you. There are lots of companies to choose from and if you own your own home - check with your homeowners insurance to see if you can get a binder from them. It is reasonably priced and based on deposits, gift theft, jewelry loss, etc.. Anything can happen at a wedding - just don't let it happen to you.

Lookit those eyes!

Hey girls! Listen, I had to tell you because I thought I was going crazy. I noticed in pictures that my eyes look gi-normous and could'nt help but think - wow, look at my eye's - they are so pretty!! I am one of those people whose eyes change colors - from slate blue to green to amber-ish. I can always tell it's gonna be a good day when they're green honey!! So, anyway, today I was putting on my mascara and noticed another thing - I have way more lashes than I used to. I used to have three big patches and then a few little baby lashes in between. I was never happy with them and even contemplated buying falsies to make them more uniform but, you know, I didn't want to look like a glam goddess while shopping at the grocery store! Just being honest. Here's what I figured out - it's my new masccara! Now, I bought it because it was on sale - and I had a coupon - so there's a bonus. It's that Covergirl Exact Eyelights. I bought it in Target in the shade of Black Gold. I prefer a darker lash and this is made for my specific eye shade. I knew they would pick up the color highlights in the mascara but grow my lashes too?? Who'd have thought that was a benefit. Now, I cannot say that was the case but, honestly, I don't care. I love this stuff and my lashes look fab. Covergirl - you've done it!! And, NO, I don't get any free Covergirl stuff, nor am I a paid endorser but Hey, Covergirl - LOVE IT!

Make Money, Money!

Hey girls, here is another tip that you can use TODAY!! If you are one of those brides who has to wait to save some more cash before you can start planning your wedding - this one is for you! Did you ever think about putting your money in a short term CD? There are many levels of short term ranging from months to years as well as different levels of interest rates. But, regardless of the term, in many cases, you come out with a little more money than what you put in. Some banks will also allow you to add money to that same CD so you will be able to stay on track with your saving. Also, some have deposit caps but it is definitely worth looking into. Even if there is a cap and you have saved some more money - open another CD for a shorter term. Keep the CD's SAFE by making sure the bank is FDIC insured and lock those little bank books in a safe. Plus, the best part - you can't easily touch that cash like a regular savings account. Just in case you decide you hafta to have those awesome new _______.

Save the Dollars!

In case you didn't know, the dollar bill is on the endangered species list. With the recent economy floundering - people don't want to spend any money just in case. We know the feeling! So, that puts brides in a precarious situation because they want everything because it is sooooo cute, beautiful, perfect, {insert descriptive word here}. But, they run the calculator in their mind and put it back on the shelf. We understand what you are going through! But, did you know, that working with a planner will actually SAVE you money. Let's just choose one item out of your wedding details that everyone does for weddings - flowers. You want them, even if you are not into flowers. The groomsmen need bout's, maids need bouquets, Moms need corsages, etc. right? So, you have decided to not have flowers on the tables to save some cash. But what should we do there instead? Sure, you can put candles there but you will have to be sure you CAN use candles at the venue. You might need to put hurricanes over them to prevent a fire or get the LED tealights. So, good, that's done. But, what else is going with it - it looks too sparse. You could put some seashells around them or some silk blossoms or colored stones. Yes, that looks better. But, did you notice that you added the additional components to make it look complete? All that adds up per table. Trying to make your table look nice will still cost you money regardless of what smaller items you use. But, working with a planner, we have florists that will take what you do have to spend and use that creatively to make your table look fabulous for very little money. Our florists will use more textural items, inexpensive greens, blossoms, containers and sometimes items you wouldn't have even thought of. Our course, you don't need a planner to do that but our knowledgable florists know you need to get creative on your lowered budgets. They make your wedding special without it looking watered down. Walking into your local florist and telling them that you have a thousand to spend may make them flinch. Their package doesn't fit your budget perhaps. We tell our florists what you are working with and they make it happen. Even if you want exotic orchids! You don't need a bushel - but a few would be nice, right! There are ways, and we know them.

Bargain, Bargain, Bargain - SCORE!

So, I love to find a bargain regardless of where I am - Target, Bloomingdales and even the gas station. But, this past month has been crazy finding bargains for my three boys heading back to school. One likes the skater look, one goes for the jock wear and my littlest one - well, let's just say I like anything but white. But what I do love in white is wedding gowns. Did you know that as a planners we can find so many deals on wedding gowns and you don't have to look any further than that pricey bridal boutique. Just like your local department store changes fashions according to the seasons, bridal salons so the same. The best way to get a deal, or even a steal, is to shop the boutique during their trunk show. This is where the salon will highlight a certain designers next seasons gowns. But, here is the thing, you are getting married in the fall and they are showing the summer collection. Not to worry though! Some salons will allow you to purchase that designers fall collection during the summer show at the same discount! Many salons have that last season gown already discounted to make space for the new collection - that equals double discount!! One bride was looking for a specific Maggie Sottero gown and we were able to make sure that gown was delivered to the trunk show store so she could try it on. Of course she loved it. Yes, it was last season, yes it was discounted, yes she saved over $700. Not that I need to say more but p.s. honeys - thats $100 short of paying for your Month of Coordination with The Rare Affair! Bonus!! Now, lets see what we can do about those snazzy linens you were contemplating....

Take a seat...

On a couple of occasions, I have had brides that wish to have a laid back feel to their wedding reception without so much formality that they prefer not to use place cards. Because they selected an Inn that had a quaint restaurant in house, we decided to try it and found that it doesn't completely work. Their head tables had adorable little signs on them that read "Oops, this table is reserved" but the bride's uncle thought that since family was seated there and he was family - that he should sit there as well. This eliminated a seat for the father of the bride and his wife creating an embarrasing situation. We then had to find another two seats in a room with singles available. You can imagine the unfortunate outcome - moving people that had half eaten rolls with butter wrappings on the tables. Replacing place settings and adding chairs to tight tables was not fun. But, it was a learning expereince that no matter what the situation - place cards are always a necessity - people really do want to be told where to sit and not figure it out themselves. But, recently we had a cocktail reception (nightclub style) with what turned out to be an open invitation and we were beyond capacity. Because there would be some older guests, our concientious bride wanted to be sure they had access to a seat and reserved 8 tables (80 seats) for their comfort. Being a cocktail reception, assigned seating is not standard and we expected guests to understand that the assigned seats were a courtesy to the older guests but we were incorrect. Many guests complained that they did not have a seat, some guests took the available seats creating issues with the guests assigned to that seat and some even decided to leave. Now, I will say that at the remaining "open" cocktail tables - there were an additional 44 chairs available but they were not where those guests wanted to be seated. In the end, both receptions went on (even though there was a rocky start) and the guests enjoyed dinner and dancing. The guests who complained in the beginning were laughing and having a great time an hour later and all went well. But, no matter what style reception you are thinking of having - make sure that there is enough seating, keep your invitation list closed and always assign seating. It makes for a fabulous event and your guests will thank you!

Yami & Peter

I was priviledged to produce the wedding for Yami and Peter last night and I cannot express how happy I was to have been a part of it. All couples should take Yami & Peter's wedding and use it as an example on how to perservere in the face of wedding challenges. Like many brides, Yami was so excited to plan her day. When the planning began it became more than they really wanted - just to have an intimate, swanky and fun event. They selected a great Boston venue but after finding that their wedding was getting bigger than they wanted, they decided to take it to the tropics. They invited a few select friends and family members and planned location tours and fun dinners. Their plans were in place at the lux Moon Palace Resort and then came the H1N1 epidemic. All flights in or out of Cancun were cancelled. So, after much grief, they decided to cancel their dream tropical wedding. Now, the panic sets in - what are they supposed to do? Put it off for 6 months or just go for it? I assured her to go ahead and just do it! All plans can be done is a couple of days as long as you are willing to be flexible and decide to stick with what is most important to you. They were able to plan the third wedding in just three weeks time by securing a church, venue (which was to be used for their return party), new dress, flowers, tux - everything. So now that the sad part is over, on to the best reception I have ever - yes, ever - been to. The reason I say "ever" is because this is the nicest couple who is deserving of such a day. At her rehearsal I had the crowd applaude them because we never thought we'd see this day. We set her venue in rich purple linens and silver chiavari chairs. We accented the room with lime green orchids and sashes on the bridal party chairs. The room was backlit with a lucious fuscia glow that completely transformed the room. Yami rolled up, literally, in an antique Rolls Royce with a long white stretch behind her. Even in the heat, it was difficult to get the guests inside as they wanted the first glimpse of her exiting the car. From the last pew in the church I was able to get a full view of the congregation. The kleenex was pulled and cameras were flashing at every move they made. It seemed as though the guests were hanging on every word. When the ceremony ended, Peter embraced Yami and gave her the sweetest, most loving kiss I have seen in a while - truly romantic movie quality! Out onto the court where Yami and Peter thanked their guests and snapped photos. That's where I had to leave them and get ready to greet their many guests at the venue. Yami and Peter decided to have a cocktail reception instead of a sit-down dinner which to me was a smart decision because that is what they wanted in the first place. Yes, they had more guests than anticipated but an hour after guests arrived, the smiles and laughter filled the hall. A fun candy display greeted the children but I saw many adults indulging as well! It was too cute not to take a picture of so I made sure the photographer got a shot before it was cleaned out! They danced through the night with everyone they love. Even though it wasn't their first choice, they made it work for them and I commend them for their patience and absolute resolve to be together as husband and wife. That truly is what it's all about. I have never told a couple you can't have "X" - it's whatever they want to do - but, Yami and Peter did it. No matter what "X" was - they just wanted to be married. Love it!

Diva's

So you have your four bridesmaids which are supposed to be at your moms house at noon to get dressed. You pre-paid hair and make-up stylists as a gift for them all but nobody shows. So, the calls begin with one question - Where are you? You gave them a schedule and asked them to please be there on time but they are all over the map. One is getting a pedi and decides to stay there for make-up. You can't reach two and are texting like crazy. The last is coming in late because she didn't know she was supposed to be there at 12:00 and made another appointment for 1:00. As a bride you are put in the position of basically - freaking out. People are going to be late and it's affecting your wedding day schedule not to mention your mood. If they are late, you will be late. All I can say is this is unacceptable. You should not feel that your day will be delayed because other people were not listening, forgot or otherwise don't care. Always remember that regardless of how many attendants you have - you are the only Diva today. Don't let selfishness ruin your mood. There needs only be five people at the church - you, your groom, two witnesses and the clergy. All the rest is gravy. So, don't let them stress you. And, believe me, I know that you did the rehearsal and you're thinking how you can have them not be in the wedding but it always works out and they will be there. Just because they are not at the house when they are supposed to be - doesn't mean you are not married at the end of the day.

Mind Your Manners

So, you are a guest at the reception and it looks like you don't have a place card. It's too hot in the room. The buffet is empty. As a guest, and if any or all of these thing occur - who should you tell? Please tell me it's not the bride, groom or their parents. Obviously, at this moment, the bride would not be changing the thermostat, refreshing the buffet or making you a little card with your name on it. But, so many guests feel that it is OK to point out the flaws during a reception that it makes a couple feel that their guests are not enjoying themselves. If you do decide to complain to any of the people mentioned above about any of these situations, I can put it perspective of what will be the result. So for example, your place card. A bride is coming into the reception lobby fresh from rushing through photos, you tell her there isn't a card for you. She is going to look at you with a horrified look because she knows you are supposed to have one but can't believe she missed your card. She will feel terrible and guilty for not making YOU feel special. She will be trying to think of who she put you with and wondering if you even know the other guests to find them. So, you've now created a task for her to accomplish before she can proceed to what she needs to do - which is get ready for introductions. On to the A/C. Unless they have booked an historic venue with no chance of A/C you're out of luck. But, I can assure you, the A/C is on in a venue throughout the summer and the winter. Venue personnel know that each body that enters the room increases the temperature by one degree. Add alcohol and dancing and you've got a heat wave. Event staff do not try to torture guests, but, the temp can only go down so far. So, you find the groom who is rolling through his college antics, with friends he hasn't seen in years, to tell him it's too hot. He will now leave his friends, go find a waitress (who is trying to get meals out to other guests), to go with him to check the thermostat himself. He will see that it is as low as it can go, shrug his shoulders and tell you "hey, it's on". Again, he's checking the temp when he should be enjoying his reception. And now, The Buffet. You arrive at the buffet after your table number is called - the fourteenth table. There are a couple stream trays that are empty and you are starving. So you take what you can and head back to your table. The bride and groom come to your table to thank you for coming and ask if you are enjoying your meal. "Yes, everything is fantastic" should be your answer but instead it's "yeah, the buffet had nothing in it. The food was gone by the time they called our table". Picture the groom zooming in on the buffet and looking to see who he can strangle over this. He will want to find staff but, he see's the father of the bride first. He tells him to check the food situation and the result is Dad finds the event manager and reams them out because he spent thousands of dollars on this wedding and it's his only daughter and they are ruining it for her and that he wants a credit, etc., etc.. I agree that the buffet should be stocked, and the new, fresh tray may be coming through the door right when you walked back to your table but the Bride and Groom are not the people to discuss this issue with. So, if you are ever attending a wedding - mind your manners. The bride and groom can absolutely accomodate your issues - but it's not their problem. As a planner, producing hundreds of weddings, I can honestly say that these situations come up frequently. I am sure that the A/C issue comes up at every event and the buffet is a timing issue but the place card situation will happen with a harried bride. Each issue is resolvable and not something to get the whole room in an uproar over. But, really, ask the staff and give the couple what they really want - a chance to say YES, we did it and now lets enjoy it.

Dress Nice - OK

We really have to get people back into the idea that Weddings are more than just a celebration - they are an opportunity to dress to the 9's. My Bride will always look incredible but when guests arrive in sneakers, a loose dress shirt without a tie and baggy dress pants - it bothers me that they didn't make the effort. I produced a wedding last night where the guests were dressed fab! Hair, Make-up, gorgeous cocktail dresses and even some full length gowns. The men were in suits. Not just off the rack suits but Suits - triple layers with incredible ties and shoes that some alligator wishes he had back. That is how you should dress when attending a wedding ceremony & reception. Gone is even the era of attending the church in respectable clothing. Wedding guests have been spotted wearing little more than short shorts, high heels and a cotton tank top. They may be Jimmy Choos and designer duds but really - shorts to a wedding, in the city no less? I could let it slide if it was a beach & barbecue wedding - that would be kinda appropriate but wouldn't be better to buy a pretty sun dress or some linen pants and a lightweight shirt. Let's go people! Let's get dressed again.

I've changed my mind...

Lot's of times when we go over the plans for a wedding we discuss videographers along with photographers. Many photographers have been creating slideshows that are ready for viewing during the reception which is absolutely great. Because of this fun entertainment feature, many brides decide to hire just the photographer and leave out the video - the slideshow seems to be enough. As a planner, I tend to think of their budget and go along with their decision regardless of what it is. If a bride does want video - there are several companies that use 3 mm film or action cini-film and it looks so much more special than a bland corner mounted shot. I love the modern filmwork that is being produced - no more hours and hours of film to sit through, right?! So, getting to my point of changing my mind. My Mum visited from the Florida Keys to meet her new grandson and she brought us a special treat - her old videos converted to DVD. There was a bunch of different videos merged into one - vacations, family parties, conversations with the lens caps on, etc. But the one that was the most special was her wedding video. The video was taken by her very best friend Joyce. It was shakey, full of Joyces' banter with the person on the other side of the lens, cackled laughs and songs she would personnally sing. But, most importantly, my Father. My Father passed away four years ago from a massive heart attack at age 54. He had retired a short eighteen months prior, selling our family home and moving with my Mum to Florida. They were excited to spend the rest of their days watching sunsets and wearing flip-flops. His passing was a complete shock to us all and made us appreciate the time we all have with each other. Watching him appear on screen, full of life - just being him - crushed me. I hung on every word to hear his voice, watch him walk, touching my mothers back, kissing her and holding her hand. He was everything to our family and it was so special to see him again - as he was. I was thinking about my brides, how they feel on their wedding day, is just the way my mother felt. To lose that love of your life suddenly is heart-wrenching and to have that person - alive again in a way - is a gift that many should not substitute for a photo montage. A bride seeing her husband or a daughter seeing her father on a screen, when you can no longer touch that person, is emotionally priceless. I will now tell my story every time the decision arises - to video or not to video - and let my brides decide. Now, someone please get me a tissue and push play - one more time.

Hair and Make-up Nightmare

So, you've gotten all the jewels for your neck, wrist and ears laid out on the dresser. Your gown is hanging on the door. Your overnight bag is packed and everything ready to go. Time to sit and wait for your cousin to come by and do you hair. She's a little late because she was grabbing a coffee and bumped into an old friend while waiting in line. So, you call your friend, who is doing your make-up but she's not answering the phone. Fast forward an hour. Your cousin is there trying to set your curls but your hair is so fine they keep falling. Now, she is spraying the heck out of it and its getting slicker and slicker. It's not exactly what you wanted but she took so long - you only have 30 minutes left to get your make-up put on. Your friend pulls out her big plastic make-up bin "that has every shade under the sun - no worries". Too bad, it has every shade that matches her skin tone - not yours. It's Ok, since you are using your own foundation so you go ahead and let her start. Once you are finished up - you run to the bathroom mirror to see how perfect your reflection is. FAIL. The eyebrows she filled in make you look like Groucho Marx, the lip liner is two shades darker than your lipstick and your blush is a loud, silvery pink strip up the side of your face. Time to cry. Yes, I mean it - go ahead and cry. Let's rewind this scenario six months, shall we? When your planner said "who is doing your hair and make-up" you said "oh, my cousin and friend", did she give you a scared look with shocked, raised eyebrows. That should have been your cue to say - I need a team then, huh? Instead, you said - "I think it's a waste of money. Besides, my cousin did all the girls hair at prom and they looked awesome". Honey, this ain't prom and it's not dress up time - this is your wedding. You NEED a hair and make-up team. Your hair will stay all day and be exactly as you like it because the stylist will be familiar with your hair and what products to use to keep it perfect. Your make-up artist will consult you and use the perfect shades for your coloring. They will also apply it in such a way that the photographers lighting will not wash you out. Not to mention they are working for you. They are going to arrive on time, have their equipment organized and work efficiently to keep you on time. Hair will usually cost between $75 and $150 and make-up is between $75 - $125 and they can travel to you. Some stylists will even come 1/2 way through the reception to do touch ups. So, you should pay the price for a pro and not just pay the price going with the "Prom Night Special". Trust me - I've seen it and it ain't pretty.

Trouble

I am having a really tough day today!!! I lost my website content but I am working on it - well, they are working on it. I hope it will be solved today!!! I know you all love to search the web for your vendors and check out the pricing so that's what I was updating. That's what I get for giving too much information! HA!

So anyway - bear with me.

The Lookey Loo

So this year is a bust for weddings since the economy is pushing many couples to the breaking point. They are either extending their engagements another year to save up some extra cash or they are cutting way back in order to get it done this year. Because of these financial cuts, some are saving money by opting for the backyard wedding. But, when it comes to the backyard reception one thing holds true - nobody wants the guests milling around inside looking for the bathroom. Nor, do I need to mention - jamming the septic system. So, what's a girl to do? The obvious choice is the port-o-potty. Ewww, yuck right? Well, yes maybe the big blue box is a bit tacky but when you are on a budget - they work. So let's have a chat about the bathrooms then. You have several options above the blue box. The next level up is the white trailer with the stairs - we're getting a bit better if not pricier. Add in the men's side and you've got luxury without the line, right? Well, recently I went on a site visit to check out Mohegan Sun nightclubs for the baccelor/ette parties. While there, I stopped for lunch and met a great bartender who let me in on he and his partners secret plans for the latest version of the potty. I am thinking - what? plasmas in the trailer - heard of it, more toilets - been there, lights - ooooohhh. So, what's new with the Loo, I wondered. He began to describe a potty that blended into the yard. A shed if you will. I gave him my card and waited to see the result. Well, the results are in ladies and you have never seen anything like this! At least I have not and I have seen a lot of potties. I got the pics today and I will tell you - this is the holy grail of potties. The unassuming exterior, the gorgeous fixtures, the REAL linens and artwork - who'd have thought! So if you need a potty check out www.luxury-loo.com. I have not worked with them YET - but they will be my top potty referral. So, forget about holding it till you get home - this potty looks like you won't have to douse yourself with Purell - or announce your departure with a loud THWACK-ing door. Ahhhh, a privvy privvy.

Fundage

Today's Brides have come up against some serious issues affecting their wallet. I personally believe this is due to the wedding industry itself. I do love to look at all of the trade mags to see fresh ideas and tips on how to decorate, what to serve, gifts, etc. But, what these mags have done is actually make some brides feel they have to have it all. I find it is unfortunate that so much money is put into elaborate favors, chair covers, monogrammed everything, specialty lighting, etc. When I consult with a bride - I always discuss my top three most important reception services: food, entertainment and cake - in that order. That is where they should put their money first & foremost. I say that because when I work a reception, I like to check in with the guests to see how their evening is going and ask if they are in need of anything. Their most common responses are - "oh no, I am still so full", "Can you get me some new feet! They are killing me from dancing in these shoes" or "Who made that cake - it is absolutely gorgeous!" I have never, ever heard a guest say how cute the monogram on the favor was, how nicely the napkin matched the chair cover or how great it was that the flowers didn't obstruct their view across the table. While these touches may be special - if your on a limited budget focus that money on your food, entertainment and the cake. Why is the cake so important you say - well, how many weddings have you been to where guests are crowding the cheese display to take photos of it?

When it rains...

As a planner, one of the questions I always ask when I meet a new couple is "what if it rains. Would they roll with it or completely freak out"? I know that most Bride's want a beautiful sunny day for her wedding but in reality rain is frequent duing the prime wedding season between April and October. Because of this, we always come up with a Plan B. When booking an outdoor location for your ceremony, always ask if there is an indoor option and can this option be done at the last minute. If it has been raining most of the morning and stopped an hour before your ceremony - make sure your seating has been out of the rain during that time. Some rental companies drop it off the day or two prior. If it was exposed - it must be dried completely before guests arrive. If you have hired a day of coordinator - they should have the necessary tools on hand to handle this situation. But, even if there is a dry chair - you may have to go without some other elements such as a runner - imagine a muddy mess on a white sheet. If you are able to move the ceremony indoors - will that location fit your guests - seated? Some may have to stand in the back and sides of the room. Depending on the space, your aisle may need to come in from around a corner or even through a side door eliminating a grand entrance. Your floral arrangements may also need to be changed because of the new plan. This is true especially if you ordered the tall garden trellis decorated with greens and blooms. But, even when I hear that they would completely freak out if it rained - I always remind them - at the end of the day, rain or shine, they are still married. Try to remember what the day is about and not what it wasn't. Afterall, an absolutely perfect Wedding day leaves nothing much to talk about in the years to come.

The Receiving Line?

At most weddings, once I send the Bride down the aisle to greet her Groom, I head outside to chat with the limo driver about the estimated length of the ceremony. This way, they can anticipate when to break out the Champagne and get the AC pumping in the limo. But, oh yeah - there's a receiving line. A receiving line is a great way to thank guests for coming if you are not having a formal reception. This was the norm back in the day when most families would not have elaborate affairs following a church ceremony - usually just cake and punch in the church basement or at the Bride's home. Since then, the receptions have become longer and with less formality and stiffness. It is becoming common for couples to host a cocktail reception, dinner reception, dancing reception and sometimes - the after party. During these receptions, the Bride and Groom are able to socialize with their guests all evening and the function of the receiving line is moot. What's the big deal you say? Well, many couples from the time they wake until the ceremony - are on a strict timeline. So, take for example, a couple may only have thirty minutes tops for photos at the church due to a Mass following their ceremony. If you are late for your ceremony - at all - this will eat into those 30 minutes easily. If you have a receiving line - say goodbye to the photography? I think not! So, save the hugs and kisses for the reception - your photographer will be able to get the photos you are paying for and not to mention - the Grooms boutonnierre stay's hug free!

A Few Words About Aisle Runners

I truly have a few words about aisle runners and none of them are proper to post. So, here comes a rant. I don't care if you have them personally monogrammed, your grandmother stitched it with a piece of her dress in it, the florist suggested it or you bought one from Michaels. Don't waste your time or money. Regardless of the number of pins used to tack it down, it will shift, drag, blow off or catch in some way. Yes, I get, it - the rug is ugly, it has stains or it keeps your heels out of the grass, whatever the reason - just dont. I had a gal get a runner to cover the concrete walkway for her outdoor ceremony. The only way to keep it from blowing away was to tape it down. The tape would not stick to concrete under the runner so they had to tape the edges. I am sure you can imagine how pretty that looked! There are better ways to camo the flooring. You can use freeze dried rose petals to create an aisle or to keep your heels out of the ground - wear wedge heels. I have seen tripping, heels stuck through the runner and dragged and even a pin catch a shoe which tore a four foot strip down the edge. I literally had to run up and step on it to keep it from getting worse. The guests in the rear rows were focused on the bridesmaids and motioning to them to "watch out". Now really - is that what you want? All eyes on you baby - nix the runner.

Megan & Brandin's Wedding

The sound of bagpipes after a morning rain began my day with Megan and Brandin at the Free Evangelical Church in North Easton yesterday. This Scottish clan was thrilled to have received the bagpiper, Scott Fletcher, (as a surprise gift) to greet arriving guests. It is always so nice to give a nod to the other familys' heritage. It makes the day that much more touching and special. For me, I was so proud to assist Megan because her sister, Shelby, is my trusty assistant. It felt like I was assisting family! When Megan arrived at the church - I could not believe how absolutely perfect she looked. She was one of those girls that looked like she just stepped out of a bridal magazine! The bridesmaids wore soft chiffon gowns in Bahama Breeze (turquoise) and they all looked unbelievable. The groomsmen, stood tall as they escorted the ladies down the aisle to the regal "Highland Cathedral". After a poinant service performed by Rev. Greg Bar and a blessing from Rev. Powell, the party moved on to Independance Harbor in Assonet. I'm still amazed about IH! The staff Captains, Matt & Madeline, are magicians with ESP and everyone there is so accomodating and knowledgable. They really know what they are doing and I would recommend them to any Bride. My Bride and Groom posed for photos on the lush grounds surrounded by Foxglove and Peonies. I hear the owner cares for the grounds himself. Absolutely amazing - absolutely perfect.

The Candy Buffet

I just wrapped up another wedding this past weekend and had to comment about candy buffets. This was my third "buffet" and had the caterer control this one. The bride purchased a great assortment of the couples favorite candies and had provided great containers. The caterer used risers to make the candy jars different heights to create dimension. It looked fantastic - so what's the problem? People absolutely go berzerko for the candy. They wanted it early, continuously asking my bride where it was - so it was brought out early and devoured in mere minutes. People dove into the candy as if they didnt just eat a three course meal. Another wedding that we prepared last year had coordinating pink and brown candies. there were lollipops, jellybeans, custom M&M's and ribbons. It was lovely. The buffet was set up in a side room for departing guests to take a sweet treat on their way out. Unfortunately, the bar was switched at the last minute to the sweet room for the cocktail hour - and the guests went hog wild on the candy. By the time the bride came to see how it looked - it was a complete mess. People were sitting at their little tables with cocktails, Hors D'Oevres and goodie bags choca-block filled with candies. On both of these occasions - the bride, who worked so hard to find the best stuff to make it look decadent and oh sooo cute, was so upset that they 1. didn't get to see it all put together, 2. felt that there may not have been enough candy so they felt guilty that they didnt do enough to make their guests happy and 3. thought for one second - that all the running around to get all the stuff was a complete waste of their time. So, I get it, you want your guests to see how creative and cute your wedding can be - and probably was - but I guess when guests are fighting over your candy - your buffet was THE bomb and not A bomb. So don't fret over the candy buffet. People love it and it will be gone in 30 seconds. If you want to see the candy all set up - make sure SOMEONE takes a picture - I can assure you it will last longer. Now please hand over the last Atomic Fireball - I love those things!