Wednesday, April 17, 2013

5 Tips for Selecting a Great Venue

Selecting your wedding or event venue is one of the most important decisions you will make when planning your special event.  There are lots of things to consider such as the obvious: location, the number of people the venue can hold, and of course whether you find the venue aesthetically pleasing.  I  would like to share a few things that I think are often overlooked, and that you should keep in mind when choosing your venue.

1. Space- There should be enough space for eating, drinking and dancing.  Be sure that there is a dedicated area for the cocktail hour, dance floor, and that the venue will still be roomy enough once the room is filled with tables and chairs.

2.  Catering- Some venues will have an in-house caterer or a preferred caterer list.  This may sound very convenient at first, but be sure that you will be comfortable with using their caterer before signing the contract.

3.  Decor Limitations-  Always ask about decorations.  Venues often have rules regarding what can be hung from the wall or ceiling, using rose petals, and sparklers, just to name a few.  You want to make sure that your selected venue will accommodate your event design or at least know up front what you may have to compromise on.

4.  Wheelchair Accessibility-  Is the building wheelchair accessible?  Are their lots of stairs to climb?  Will the guests be able to utilize elevators?  

5. Parking- Yep, no one wants to search for a park on your big day. So please make sure that there is ample parking to accommodate your guests.  Also be sure to find out if parking is free, if the guests will have to pay, or if valet parking is available.

Happy Planning!
Raven J.

Friday, April 12, 2013

Fashion Friday: What to Wear to a Spring/Summer Wedding

Happy Friday!  Today I thought I would share a few fashion ideas for the ladies on what to wear to a spring/summer wedding.  If you are like me, you've probably received an invitation or two to attend a loved one's wedding this year.  And of course you want to show up in style!  Just be sure to adhere to the requested attire whether it be formal, semi-formal or casual.  If you're not sure of what to wear, consider the venue where the wedding is being held, and time of day, and make your decision from there.  Be inspired by these spring fashion trends below.

1. The Fit and Flare Dress
Ya Los Angeles Lace Dress

Kate Spade New York Mariella Dress

2.  The Shift Dress
Everly Clothing Chevron Mini

Splendid Exclusive 3/4  Sleeve Dress

3.  The Maxi Dress

Shoshanna Joyce Maxi Dress

Pim + Larkin Colorblock Maxi Dress

4.  The Jumpsuit

Trina Turk Evoke Romper

Theory Provence Jumpsuit
Images via : Piperlime

  Since I''m crazy for prints and bold colors, I'm all for the chevron print shift dress.  What about you? Which style would you rock?  Tell us in the comments section below.

Happy Planning!
Raven J.



Friday, April 5, 2013

Fashion Friday: Something Blue

Say it with me. Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue!  Yes, we all know this bridal tradition.  The good thing is that today's brides have an array of options to choose from, especially when deciding on something blue. I've listed 5 non-traditional ways to incorporate something blue into your wedding day.

1.  An elegant pair of blue earrings will add just the right pop of color.

 
Marielle Tear Drop Blue Earrings


2.  Colored bridal shoes are a huge trend, so try a royal blue pair instead of white.

Nine West - JusSkippy


3. Keep it simple with an aqua blue diamond necklace.


 

Miadora 10k White Gold Aquamarine and Diamond Necklace (H-I, I2-I3)
                                                                  Image Source


4.  Be bold and rock a blue mani or pedi.

barbados blue - blues By Essie


5.  And for added fun, delight your guests with a blue cocktail during cocktail hour.

Recipes For Blue Cocktail Drinks

Happy Planning!
Raven J




Thursday, April 4, 2013

Spring and Summer Wedding Color Inspiration

Choosing wedding or event colors is a huge part of planning any event.  As the bride or host of the event, you want your colors to be easy on the eye, creative, and more than anything, leave a lasting impression on your guests.  I spied a few non-traditional color combinations that are sure to please.  Check them out below.

                                  

                                                                                 
Purple + Orange Color Scheme
Lavender+Orange

Lavender + Pink Color Scheme
Lavender+Pink

Green + Brown Color Scheme
Mustard Yellow+Brown+Green


Turquoise + Orange Color Scheme
Turquoise+Orange
 
 
Light Pink + Brown Color Scheme
Light Pink + Brown
 
 
Purple + Blue Color Scheme
Purple+Blue
 
I'm loving the lavender and orange combination. Which color combination speaks to you? Tell us in the comment section below.
 
Happy Planning!
Raven J