Orchestrated Occasions

Cookie Favor Buffet

2011-06-04T11:34:00.000-04:00

One of our brides informed us that she's looking forward to having a Cookie Favor Buffet. Yummy! Most guests appreciate edible favors, so I'm sure it'll be a hit. Check out these cute ideas.

Source: Etsy

Source: Mrs. Dumpling

Source: Bashful

Source: Martha Stewart

Happy Planning...

Groom Style: Down the Aisle in Sneakers

2011-05-14T16:14:00.012-04:00

We love working with couples who aren't afraid to infuse their personality into their wedding day. So when one of our clients mentioned (several times) he wanted to wear Nike Air Force Ones with his tux we liked the idea. A cute and fun way for him to show his sense of style.

Even though his fiancee isn't thrilled about the idea maybe these photos will soften her up a bit. This post is for you Keithon. :)

Photo credit: One Thousand Words Photography

Photo credit: Rhodes Studios

Photo credit: Butterfly Girl

Photo credit: Maxcaven

Photo credit: Shadow Catcher Imagery

Happy Planning...

Consultant Corner: Q&A (R&B Wedding Songs)

2011-04-23T18:29:00.018-04:00

Q: My fiance and I like R&B. Do we have to use the traditional wedding march songs for our ceremony?

A: No, of course not. The songs that you select should have special meaning to you and your fiance. Listed below are some of my favorite ceremony songs.

"Golden"- Chrisette Michele

"Forever"- Dave Hollister

"Giving Myself"- Jennifer Hudson

"I Do"- Boyz II Men

"I Was Made to Love You"- Gerald Levert

"Forever"- Jaheim

"Close to You"-BeBe & CeCe Winans (not r&b, but great as a wedding song)

"So High"-John Legend

"Rest of Our Lives"- Jeffrey Osborne

"Dangerously in Love"- Beyonce Knowles

Songs that you will need to select are:

Ceremony Songs
Prelude
Processional
Recessional

Reception Songs
Bridal Party Entrance
Bride & Groom Entrance
1st Dance
Father Daughter Dance
Mother Son Dance
Bouquet Toss
Garter Toss
Cutting of Cake
Last Dance

Pull out a pad & pen and get busy! A time consuming task, but worth it in the end.

Happy Planning...

Premiere of Jumping the Broom 2011

2011-02-19T12:44:00.005-05:00

Earlier this week I attended the premiere of Jumping the Broom a movie produced by TD Jakes & Tristar. After only 6 months of courtship Jason proposes to Sabrina and they decide to marry immediately...And they live happily ever after... Hardly that!! How can a man marry a woman who his downhome collard green making sweet potato pie baking mother has never met? Honey child, you just wait and see (in my southern voice).

Even though the movie is a romantic comedy it sheds light on some very serious subjects. The star-studded cast includes Angela Bassett, Paula Patton, Laz Alonso, Loretta Devine, Meagan Good, Tasha Smith, Mike Epps and many more.

If you're a bride-to-be and decide to see the movie be inspired by the rehearsal dinner & wedding day decor. One last thing, can Mrs. Watson (Sabrina's mother) please fire Amy, their ditsy Wedding Planner?! IJS

Happy Planning...

HONEYSUCKLE & PLATINUM WEDDING

2011-01-31T01:00:00.001-05:00

Be inspired by Pantone's 2011 Color of the Year-Honeysuckle.

Photo credits: (Aisle) Orchestrated Occasions, (Gown) Vera Wang, (Invitation) Paper Wonders, (Reception Table & Cocktails) Brides.com and (Cake) Maples Wedding Cakes

Happy Planning...

Real Wedding: Raz & Maria

2010-05-19T13:00:00.000-04:00

"Romantic & Unique" were the words Raz and Maria used to describe their ideal wedding day...And that it was. Instead of the traditional hotel venue the beautiful couple opted to hold their ceremony and reception at South Florida's replica of Tara (Gone With the Wind), Casa Reta.

As guests entered the gates they were greeted with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, giving the bridal party time to take pictures before the sun set. After the beautiful front yard ceremony everyone gathered to the backyard for a tented reception under the stars. Raz & Maria treated their guests to an Argentine feast (hot off the grill). In addition to the wedding cake, there was a dessert station which included a chocolate fountain, fresh fruit, an assortment of cookies and a crepe station. Yummy!

Before the night ended everyone joined the couple on the dance floor for "Crazy Hour". Out came the masks, beads, hats, wigs, noisemakers and lights. What a night to remember!

Raz & Maria's wedding orchestra included:

Orchestrator: Orchestrated Occasions
Rentals: Adriana's Party Rental
Photograhy: ArtEssence Studio
Videography: Cinema Chic Productions
Caterer: Parrilladas To Go
DJ: Gaby Z Entertainment
Ceremony Music: Marc Magellan

Happy planning...

Real Wedding: Shanley & Rebekka

2010-05-09T16:00:00.001-04:00

Shanley and Rebekka were a fabulous couple to work with. Rebekka was one of the most organized brides I've worked with. Working in the technology field, she stored all her information on her computer (which she carried everywhere) and in order to have access to her wedding information I had to learn a new computer program (patiently taught by Rebekka herself). :)

On March 7, 2010, at the Fort Lauderdale Museum of Art, Shanley and Rebekka "submitted" themselves to each other in front of 140 friends and family members. Their personally written vows bought many to tears. You could feel the love, care and concern they share for each other. They will forever have a special place in my heart!

Shanley & Rebekka's wedding orchestra included:

Planning & Orchestration- Orchestrated Occasions

Floral Designer- Tropical Elegance

Caterer-Helene Nelson

Photographer- Morewar Photos

Linens- Over the Top

Cake-Cakes By Ena

Videographer- Dexter Matthis

Reception Music- Kaygon

Happy planning...

Woman2Woman Breast Cancer Foundation's Pink Diamond Ball & Silent Auction

2010-04-11T13:46:00.020-04:00

On Saturday, April 10, 2010 Orchestrated Occasions had the privilege of assisting Woman2Woman Breast Cancer Foundation with their signature event of the year-The Pink Diamond Ball & Silent Auction. The event was a Celebration of Life for breast cancer survivors and their families.

Woman2Woman Breast Cancer Foundation was founded by Jacqueline Gray (a breast cancer survivor) in 2007. Their mission is to support women by promoting regular examinations, early detection, and aggressive treatment for those suffering from breast cancer. Woman2Woman and their affiliates strive to provide, breast health awareness through health fairs, classes and workshops. No woman should have to face the consequences of breast cancer as a result of the inability to pay for treatment and medicines. For more information or to become a volunteer call 954-730-7338 or visit Woman2Woman.

Pink Diamond Ball & Silent Auction vendors included:

Venue: Renaissance Plantation Hotel
Event Specialists: Orchestrated Occasions and Things To Do
Mistress of Ceremonies: Tamara Gant
Centerpieces: Things To Do
Linens: Top Notch Linens
Entertainment: 45 Live
Songstress: Anastia
Silent Auction Entertainment: Dillard Jazz Band
Dance Tribute: On Your Toes Dance Academy
Lighting: Party Time DJs
Photographer: Scott Photography
Videographer: IMA Studios Film & Video Production
Favors: Sherri Price

Heartfelt thanks to all the sponsors and volunteers who helped make this event a success!

Happy planning...

Yacht Weddings...Sail Away

2010-01-28T23:50:00.003-05:00

Most couples "tie the knot" on land, but some brides and grooms are opting to say "I do" on water.

I recently spoke to Melanie C. and this is what she said about her yacht wedding on Sun Dream Yacht Charters: "The staff was attentive and no one went unnoticed. Everyone had a great time and raved about the food! The Captain performed my ceremony and he was wonderful. When I think what I would have paid at a hotel for the same thing, it was a steal!"

Hosting your wedding on a luxury yacht can be an intimate, fun, exciting and memorable experience for you and your guests.

Happy planning...

2010 COLOR OF THE YEAR

2009-12-09T21:18:00.004-05:00

Pantone, the world’s color authority, predicts the color for 2010 is TURQUOISE.

According to Pantone, turquoise is universally flattering, appeals to men and women, pairs nicely with any other color in the spectrum, adds a splash of excitement to neutrals and browns, complements reds and pinks and is especially trend-setting with yellow-greens.

Be Inspired

Photo credit: Donovan Moore, Wedding Paper Divas, Project Wedding, The Knot, and Sugar Chef

Happy Planning

A Letter to Our Guests (Guest Etiquette defined)

2009-11-06T08:00:00.003-05:00

Dear Wedding Guest,

Our Wedding Day will be one of the most important days of our lives. We have been planning our wedding for about a year and we are excited that it is quickly approaching. With the assistance of our wedding planner we have chosen a gorgeous venue, phenomenal vendors, a delicious meal and beautiful decor. We are expecting a stress-free, fun and fabulous occasion. You have been carefully selected to be in attendance as we join together in holy matrimony.

Since WE are hosting ($85 per guest + tax, + service charge, + gratuity) this event, there are some reminders we wanted you to keep in mind:

Please do not call asking if you can bring a guest (including children). If their name isn't included on the inner envelope of the invitation they are not invited.

Please arrive to our ceremony on time. You are not a member of the bridal party, we don't want to see you walking down the aisle after the processional.

You are invited to the ceremony & reception. Please do not skip the ceremony, only to attend the reception because the food and drinks are free.

Return your RSVP card even if you are unable to attend. We have applied a stamp to the RSVP envelope, all you have to do is make your selection and place it in the mail.

If we do not receive your RSVP response (by the reply date) your name will not appear on the guest list.

If you RSVP yes, but later find you cannot attend, please notify us immediately.

You are attending a wedding- please dress accordingly.

Yes, there will be an open bar. However, that doesn't mean you are free to get drunk.

Please do not collect more than one wedding favor. We purchased one per guest. Don't be greedy!

During the reception get up, dance, mingle and enjoy yourself. We're spending a ton of money on our celebration. So-CELEBRATE!

Again, we are looking forward to a fabulous occasion and we hope to see you in attendance. Visit our wedding website for more information www.futurebrideandgroom.com

With love,

Future Bride & Groom
__________________________________________________________

Happy planning...

Kellie Williams Ties the Knot

2009-10-30T22:52:00.013-04:00

Kellie Williams (Laura Winslow) of "Family Matters" is a married woman. She tied the knot to Hannibal Jackson last month.

Photo credits: Lip Stick Alley and Forever

Happy Planning...

10 Ways to Cut Wedding Costs

2009-10-22T00:00:00.015-04:00

In this critical economy, many couples are going the extra mile to keep their wedding costs down. There are many ways to cut costs without sacrificing style and elegance.

Try these tips:

Trim the guest list. More guests equals more everything (food & beverage, stamps, invitations, programs, chair treatments, linens, favors, centerpieces, serving staff, rentals). More everything equals more money!
Borrow something. Use your parent's toasting glasses, your sister's veil or your best friend's unengraved cake cutting set. Just make sure to return them.
Scale down the centerpieces. The taller the centerpiece the higher the cost. If your venue permits candles incorporate them into the centerpiece design. Also, remember to use flowers that are in season.
Say yes to the dress and grant a wish. Thousands of brides have found the gown of the dreams at an incredible low price by attending the Brides Against Breast Cancer National Tour. Most of the gowns range from $99 to $799 (including new name brand designer gowns).
Forget the favors. Who will notice? Favors are an unnecessary expense. They're either eaten immediately or tossed later.
Skip the full bar. Instead offer signature (specialty) drinks or a wine bar.
Cut the cake. Purchase a smaller version of your dream cake for the cake cutting ceremony/pictures, and purchase a backup sheet cake for additional servings. Also, buttercream is less expensive than fondant and it tastes better!
Simplify your menu. Beef and seafood entrees can quickly increase your catering bill. Instead of forgoing altogether, opt to serve them during cocktail hour. Instead of serving filet mignon as an entree, serve mini beef wellingtons or beef satay as hors d'oeuvres. Instead of lobster serve shrimp shooters, ceviche or crab cakes during cocktail hour.
Have the ceremony and reception at the same location. This will save you money on site rental fees and transportation fees. Your guests will also appreciate this.
Hire a professional wedding consultant. Wedding consultants can save you money by referring you to suitable vendors who can supply the service/product within your price range, negotiate the best price, and help you manage and stick to your budget.

Happy planning...

Out-of-Town Welcome Bags

2009-10-19T22:02:00.011-04:00

It's a thoughtful gesture to greet your out-of-town guests with a welcome bag. Your guests are traveling far and wide to attend your event, so show your appreciation by giving them a warm welcome.

What to Include
The contents of your guests welcome bags are a personal choice, which will depend upon your budget and location.

Some items to include:

A handwritten welcome/thank you note
Weekend event itinerary and clear directions
Area maps
Drinks
Non-perishable snacks

Delivery

Leave the bags at the front desk of the hotel for guests to receive at check-in or arrange for the staff to personally deliver the bags to each guests room (normally a fee). Don't forget to provide the front desk with a list of your guests names and number of bags to receive.

Photo credit: Favors You Keep

Happy planning...

Wedding Rehearsal

2009-10-06T20:27:00.016-04:00

The purpose of the wedding rehearsal is to practice what takes place during the wedding ceremony. It's important that all those participating in the wedding know their parts, duties and responsibilities.

Who should attend?

All members of the wedding party including ushers, flower girl, ring bearer, both sets of parents, the officiant, readers and musicians (if possible).

How long does a rehearsal last?

Under normal circumstances the wedding rehearsal is one hour. However, the length of the rehearsal depends on the size of the bridal party and the complexity of the ceremony.

When are rehearsals scheduled?
Rehearsals usually are held the afternoon or evening before the wedding. Check to make sure that your ceremony location is available for the rehearsal and there aren't any other events scheduled during that time.

What to bring?

Marriage License

Final vendor payments

Mock bouquets, flower basket and ring pillow

Happy planning...

Walk To End Domestic Violence

2009-10-05T19:25:00.016-04:00

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Get involved by walking to stomp out domestic violence.

Location: Senator Gwen Margolis Amphitheatre

Address: 16501 NE 16th Ave. North Miami Beach, FL 33162

Time: 7:00am- 12:00pm

Onsite Registration is $25
Includes gift bag and t-shirt

All Star Registration is $35
Includes gift bag, t-shirt and one Miami Heat vs. New York Knicks opening night game ticket (10/28)

For more information visit: Safespace

If you or someone else is being abused call the National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)

The End of Elegant Bride & Modern Bride

2009-10-05T14:19:00.016-04:00

Due to the downturn in the economy and slump in advertising, Condé Nast is closing Elegant Bride and Modern Bride. Simply put: the magazines were losing money.

Condé Nast also publishes Brides magazine. Brides magazine celebrated their 75th Anniversary this year and will now be published 12 times a year instead of only 6 times a year.

Our hearts go out to the many families who will be affected by the closing.

The Perfect Bridesmaids Dress

2009-09-16T17:49:00.010-04:00

Photo credit: 27 Dresses

Choosing dresses for your bridesmaids can be a time consuming task. Before making a decision there are some tips to consider:

Take into account the shapes and sizes of your bridesmaids. You want your girls not only to look beautiful, but feel comfortable. It may be best to select a color, but allow your bridesmaids to select their individual styles.

Unless you are footing the bill, choose a dress that is reasonably priced.

The bridesmaids dresses should be reflective of the location, formality and season of your wedding.

Happy planning...

Be Inspired: Chair Style

2009-09-03T16:46:00.019-04:00

Transform an ordinary chair into something extraordinary.

Photo credit: Chameleon Chair

Happy planning...

Gone to the Dogs

2009-09-01T20:29:00.013-04:00

Many couples can't imagine tying the knot without their four-legged family members present. Are you thinking of including your pet in your wedding ceremony? If yes, here are a view questions to consider:

Does your venue allow dogs?

Is your dog well trained?

Will your guest be comfortable around the dog?

Who will be responsible for getting the dog to and from the venue?

How does your dog react around large crowds and unfamiliar faces?

Who will be responsible for the dog before, during and after the ceremony?

Photo credit: Designer Duds for Dogs

Happy planning...

Breaking the Ice

2009-08-19T13:21:00.008-04:00

Want to break the ice at your next event? Incorporating a functional ice sculpture (large or small) will certainly give your guests something to talk about.

ICE BALLS

ICE SHOT GLASS

MARTINI LUGE

Photo credit: Ice Caters

Happy planning...

Couples Boudoir Photos

2009-08-11T00:23:00.007-04:00

Many brides-to-be have stepped out of their comfort zones to display their beauty and sensuality for their soon-to-husbands in the form of boudoir photos. However, couples boudoir sessions are becoming the trend. The photo shoot is not meant to be trashy. It's an intimate sexy and fun experience to share with your significant other.

Photo credit: GQ Magazine

Photo credit: Chelsea Nicole Photography

Happy planning...

In the Mix: Hennessy Black

2009-08-05T14:00:00.005-04:00

Soon (September for South Florida) you will be able to introduce Hennessy Black at your next social occasion.

Hennessey Black's taste is described as smooth, floral and fresh. Inside the sleek black bottle is a blend of grapes and 35-45 distinctive eaux-de-vie (fruit brandies). Making a crossover to a versatile cognac, Hennessy Black can be mixed with ingredients such as: champagne, coffee liqueur & cola, or lemon & simple sugar. For more recipes visit www.hennessyblack.com

Happy planning...

Be Inspired: Candy Buffet Alternative

2009-07-30T16:31:00.013-04:00

Photo Credit: Simply Candy Buffets

For many couples candy buffets are still the rage, but if you are looking to offer something different to your guests consider these:

POPCORN BAR

Photo credit: OneWed

SUNDAE BAR

Photo credit: Spence Photographics

COOKIE BUFFET

Photo credit: Martha Stewart Weddings

Happy Planning...

Consultant Corner: Q&A

2009-07-27T22:37:00.005-04:00

Q: My fiance popped the question over the weekend. I am excited and nervous all in one. We're engaged, what do we do now?

A: First off, congratulations you on your engagement. Before you jump into the wonderful world of planning your wedding relax, take a deep breath and enjoy being engaged. The engagement period is one of the most exciting moments you will ever experience. Once you decide to begin the planning process there some initial steps to take:

Set a wedding budget. It may be necessary to open an account strictly for wedding expenses.
Decide who's paying for what.
Choose a wedding date.
Collect magazines, pictures, swatches etc. and start a scrapbook.
Contact a professional Wedding Consultant. The consultant will provide information on venues, vendors, etiquette, budget management, design etc.

Happy planning...

WEDDING WEBCASTING (LIVE)

2009-07-01T21:21:00.005-04:00

Photo credit: I do Stream

Decline with regret. Due to today's economy or wedding location (destination weddings) some invited guests may have to decline your invitation. No problem. You can now broadcast your wedding online for your family and friends to see as it happens. Wedding webcasting is the next best thing to being in attendance. Ask your videographer for more information.

Dress My Cupcake

2009-05-19T02:18:00.011-04:00

In addition to laser cut stationery, bottle tags and napkin rings Paper Orchid has designed the cutest cupcake wrappers. Add an extra flair to your next occasion.

Charity Gown Sale

2009-05-15T00:23:00.006-04:00

The BABC charity gown sale gives brides-to be the opportunity to purchase their dream gowns at an affordable price, while making the dreams and wishes come true for men and women who are losing their battle to breast cancer. Most of the gowns are priced from $99 to $799, including hundreds of new designers.

General Sale
Saturday, May 30, 10 am - 8 pm Free Admission
Sunday, May 31, 10 am - 6 pm Free Admission

Location
Embassy Suites Hotel
1100 S.E. 17th Street Causeway
Fort Lauderdale, FL

See you there...

Be Inspired: Aisle Style

2009-05-14T00:01:00.001-04:00

Photo credit: Enchanted Florist

One of the most anticipated parts of the wedding ceremony is the processional. Why not design your grand entrance with style.

Be Inspired: Bouquet Alternatives

2009-05-06T23:51:00.011-04:00

There are many alternatives for the bride who desires something other than fresh floral bouquets.

FEATHERS

FANS

PARASOLS

PURSES

CANDLES

Consultant Corner: Q&A

2009-04-28T12:09:00.011-04:00

Q: "My FH has 2 children from a previous relationship and he wants to include them in our wedding. His daughter is 10 and his son is 6. What role should they have?"

A: First off, find out if the children want to take part in your wedding day. If they are forced to participate you may not be pleased with the outcome. The age of a child determines their role in a wedding. Since his daughter is too old to be a flower girl and too young to be a bridesmaid she can be a junior bridesmaid. His son is between 3-7 so he can act as ring bearer.

Your Feature Presentation

2009-04-28T00:54:00.009-04:00

How would you like to be the star of your own movie? Well, that's what it looks like. CINEMAGIC is a cool new product that allows you and your significant other to be stars of a personalized movie poster. Your poster can be framed and displayed on your wedding day.

Postage Price Increase

2009-04-20T17:02:00.009-04:00

On Monday, May 11th US postage rates will increase. The price of a one ounce First Class Mail stamp will increase two cents, from $.42 to $.44 cents, and the prices for other mailing services will also increase.

Reminders:

A complete invitation should be weighed before postage is applied.

All response cards sent after May 10th will require a $.44 stamp.

All basic thank you cards sent after May 10th will require a $.44 stamp.

You have the option of purchasing the Forever Stamp.

Please check the link below for other increases:
2009 Postage Price Increase

Spa Week Ends Tomorrow

2009-04-18T12:03:00.007-04:00

Some people hit the mall and shop, others hit the bar for a drink. Then there are those, like me, who enjoy hitting the spa for relaxation. This week (April 13-19) was the ideal time for spa lovers-Spa Week in South Florida. During Spa Week various spa centers offer select services for only $50 (normally $100-$200). It's not too late, call and schedule your appointment today.

Tax Relief Day

2009-04-15T09:00:00.004-04:00

Are you still crunching numbers in order to meet tonight's deadline? If so, hurry up. Many companies are allowing you to take advantage of Tax Relief Day. They are offering discounts and deals on everything from dinner to dessert.

Some tax-day deals include:

Chick-fil-A
Visit today, hang onto your receipt and return before April 30 to receive the same order for free.

Cinnabon
Visit Cinnabon from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. for free cinnamon-roll bites (regularly $2.49 for four).

Maggie Moo’s Ice Cream and Treatery
Visit the store and receive one free scoop of ice cream.

PF Chang's China Bistro
Dine in today and save 15% on the total bill.

T.G.I. Friday’s
Spend $15 to $25 and receive a $5 gift and $10 for purchases of $25 and up.

Canvas Your Wedding

2009-04-14T00:10:00.006-04:00

Besides a photographer or videographer to capture your wedding you can now contract an event painter. Special event painters are artists who capture the moment as it occurs (live). You will be able to always have on display your special day. A nice investment for a one of a kind work of art.

Painter- Sam Day

Sunset Promises & Island Dreams

2009-04-05T17:35:00.009-04:00

I was honored to attend a wedding with my husband on Saturday, March 28th at Fisher Island Club. I love seeing the visions of a bride & groom evolve into reality. Everything was beautiful.

Real Wedding: Purple Passion-Darwin & Lai

2009-04-01T21:37:00.024-04:00

On Saturday, March 7, 2009 I attended the most important wedding of my life...MY OWN!

I could not have dreamed of a more beautiful day, the atmosphere was full of joy and laughter. Our bridal party consisted of 2 maids of honor, 4 bridesmaids, 1 best man, and 4 groomsmen. We could not have asked for a better group of supporters in our lives and wedding. We were surrounded by our loving parents, 125 close family members and friends.

Some of our vendors included:

Caterer: Papa Sauce Catering
Decor & Design: Orchestrated Occasions
Photographer: Captured Memories Photography
Cake: A Piece of Cake by Elena
Saxophonist: Mighty Horn Music
Mixologist: DJ Hans Batista
Videographer: JORO Photography & Video

Real Wedding: Beth & Will

2009-02-20T22:27:00.007-05:00

On February 15, Bethsaida and Willie made their lasting dedication to each other. Their wedding ceremony and reception were held at the American Orchid Society.

Throughout the wedding ceremony & reception there was evidence of Beth's DIY projects. She spent countless hours creating the decor and accessories for their day...They turned out fabulously!

Vendors included:

Event Orchestrator: Orchestrated Occasions
Catering: Papa Sauce Catering
Photography: Amber Sycz Photography

Music: Micheal Moses

Cake: Cake Designs by Edda

Real Wedding: Byron and Angelique

2008-11-17T17:52:00.017-05:00

This past Saturday at the Hillsboro Club, Byron and Angelique joined hands, hearts and lives in the presence of 110 family members and friends. As the sun set and the waves crashed, five handsome men, four gorgeous women and one beautiful bride walked down the aisle to the music of Nancy Gillan.

After the ceremony, the guest retired to the club's patio area to experience a swanky cocktail hour. The guest enjoyed stationary hors d'oeuvres and cocktails, while listening to the smooth sounds of jazz. After taking beautiful pictures, Angelique and Byron joined their guest during cocktail hour...A very nice touch.

The reception was a true celebration. Angelique wanted a party vibe and that was the outcome. The dance floor stayed packed with the sounds and mixes of South Florida's #1 Mixologist, Hans Batista. Everyone was in total party mode. Byron (the groom) took the mic and surprised everyone (especially me) with a sample of his be-bopping skills. I even saw the banquet staff getting their groove on.

Everyone had a fabulous time!

Vendors included:

Harpist: Nancy Gillan
Decor: Tropical Elegance
Music: Hans Batista
Photographer: Ivan Afpel

The Wedding Salon

2008-11-17T17:05:00.011-05:00

On November 10th I attended the Wedding Salon Showcase at the Biltmore in Miami. The showcase featured vendors for the sophisticated bride and groom. This showcase seemed smaller than before, but I still had a Fabo time meeting new vendors and networking.

MTV Casting for Engaged and Underaged

2008-10-30T14:00:00.004-04:00

INVITE MTV TO HAVE A FRONT ROW SEAT ON YOUR SPECIAL DAY!!!

MTV News & Docs is casting for the third season of its popular documentary series “Engaged and Underage.” Let MTV tell your love story – the excitement of the engagement, the ups and downs of the planning, the fun along the way, and, of course, THE BIG DAY!!! This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity…

You and your future spouse should be between the ages of 18 and 22. Best case scenario: you're getting married in November/December 2008 or January 2009.

TO APPLY FOR THE SHOW, DOWNLOAD A CASTING QUESTIONNAIRE AT: http://www.mtv.com/content/casting_call/engaged/casting_questionnaire.doc

OR EMAIL MTV TO OBTAIN ONE AT: engagedandunderage@mtvstaff.com. (Tell us when and where you are getting married and why this is important to you. Include your name, phone number, email address and a digital photo of you and your future spouse, if possible.

Consultant Corner: Q&A

2008-10-22T20:20:00.033-04:00

One of the first questions to ask a vendor (before) issuing a deposit is just that. "Do you have liability insurance?" Most venues require that outside vendors provide them with a copy of their insurance certificates. If the vendor does not have liability insurance you can ask your venue if an insurance waiver will suffice. If there are NO EXCEPTIONS, all is not lost. There are insurance companies that provide liability insurance on a per event bases. Some brides and grooms will even add their vendor to their home insurance (I don't suggest that).

Bottom line: if your venue requires all outside contractors to have liability insurance and your contracted vendor does not have it, they will not be able to service your event. For example, your DJ doesn't have insurance = your event will not have music. As the saying goes, "Its better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it".

Don't Break the Bank

2008-09-18T23:27:00.005-04:00

Weddings can be extremely costly. Traditionally, the bride's parents would foot the bill for the wedding, but today most couples are paying for their wedding expenses themselves. Protect yourself in the beginning by drafting a clear realistic budget and sticking to it. Your goal is to achieve the wedding you've always envisioned without exceeding your stated budget. If it means placing your budget worksheet in a prominent location and referring to it before making a spontaneous purchase-do it! You will thank yourself later. The last thing you want to think/stress about after returning from your honeymoon is the mountain of debt you acquired from overspending.

Welcome to the exciting world of events!

2008-09-10T14:24:00.009-04:00

Whether it's the birth of a newborn, a graduation, wedding, or retirement, throughout our lives there are many occasions worth celebrating.

Orchestrated Occasions' blog will provide:

Event Spotlights
Tips and how to's
Updates on the latest trends & products
Questions & Answers
Information on the hottest vendors and venues and so much more...

Thank you for visiting and continue reading.