Wedding and Party Planning

Green Bridesmaids?

2010-04-19T20:52:00.000-07:00

Your bridesmaids should be green-but not green with envy! These luscious greens are perfect for that spring or summer wedding and the best part is that green can be paired with just about any other color! With such a wide variety in shades, you are bound to find that perfect match!

Dress from Nordstrom.com

Dress from Morgan McFeeters

Dress from Chadwick's

Dress from Laundry By Design

Dress by Maggy London

Banana Republic

Yellow Mello

2010-04-18T16:42:00.000-07:00

Yellow is a gorgeous color! Not only does it excites but it also exudes freshness and can be paired with almost any other color to instantly change a dull decor into a vibrant and fun masterpiece. Yellow has always been popular no matter the season. So with the Spring air still among us and summer just around the corner I have drawn my inspiration from these lovely finds! I hope I have whetted your appetite to use yellow in your upcoming wedding or event!

Check out Dog N' Bird Artful Weddings

Bouquet by BHG.com

courtesy of Lendeman Weddings and Events

Get more inspiration at Style Me Pretty!

Spring Centerpieces

2010-04-04T12:20:00.000-07:00

Better Homes and Gardens have showcased some beautiful, simple Spring centerpieces that can be used for any occasion. I just couldn't pass up the opportunity to share with you these amazing finds. For more inspiration, visit their site and you will surely be blown away!

Spring is in the Air!

2010-04-01T17:13:00.000-07:00

Spring has to be the best season of the year. Its no wonder more weddings are now taking place in Spring that in any other season. With that said, Weddingwire.com has created this beautiful inspiration board perfect for your Spring festivities..be it a wedding, luncheon or special event!

Bat Mitzvahs Anyone?

2010-04-01T16:59:00.000-07:00

Plan-It Parties of North Potomac, Md., and Syzygy Event Productions of Gaithersburg, Md., team up to dream up "Amanda's Chocolate Factory," a bat mitzvah featuring an over-the-top, Willy Wonka candy world. Decor includes a 200-gallon chocolate pond edged with giant mushrooms and flowers.

Beautiful Spring Arrangement

2010-03-31T17:26:00.000-07:00

So I was browsing Martha Stewart's website lately for inspiration for an upcoming Spring themed bridal luncheon and I came across this beautiful arrangement. Of course, the jelly beans can be substituted with your favorite candy but I think they are perfect for what I have in mind. And believe me, they wont be an arrangement for too long!

Click on the link above to get instructions

Simply Mouthwatering!

2009-10-06T10:37:00.000-07:00

I love Jay's Catering mouthwatering selection for upcoming celebrations. Definitely check them out to cater your next "do"!...you will not be disappointed!

Beautiful fall Inspirations

2009-09-23T12:59:00.000-07:00

Fall is officially here! And what better way to pay homage to a beautiful season than with inspirational ideas to help you create that rustic, sophisticated look! While browsing through Home and Garden's Wedding section, I came across these beautiful bouquets and designs to get your taste buds all wet. And if I have piqued your interest head on over to their website for even more inspirational ideas!

BE-Jeweled!

2009-09-13T23:30:00.000-07:00

I love diamonds! Which girl doesn't?! So I had to share with you my latest search for the most exquisite diamonds. Here I found jewels that can be used for a wedding, special occasion or even that secret shopping binge! Check out Susan Schwartz for even more inspiration....Don't break your wallet!!

Congrats to Sophie and Craig-Real Wedding of the day!!

2009-09-09T19:27:00.001-07:00

I previously posted that a good friend of mine from high school (Sophie) got married recently to the love of her life!....Well, the pics were just a teaser for what I have here!....How AMAZING! Maybe its the beauty resonating from Sophie, or just the way everyone in attendance looks really happy, but this video just radiates true happiness and fun!....Congrats Sophie and Craig, may your life continue to be filled with joy and happiness...you are truly a beautiful couple!!

Craig and Sophie's amazing wedding in Liverpool, England

Vegetables as Centerpieces- A Unique Twist!

2009-08-27T21:50:00.000-07:00

Want to include your favorite vegetable as your centerpiece? The folks over at Project Wedding have came up with this very unique idea for all those DIY brides out there! All you need are your veggies, some candles and voila!...who said momma wasnt right about loving our veggies!!

I Dream of Lilac!

2009-08-26T16:33:00.000-07:00

Here is a fabulous way to incorporate purple in your themed event. I have to admit, yellow is my favorite color but when I see the beauty of purple, I immediately fall in love!

A Beautiful Twist on Paper Lanterns

2009-08-25T22:51:00.000-07:00

So, I came across a new vendor today who had the most beautiful twist on paper lanterns, and you know I had to share! They are so colorful and unique I think they will make any event come to life. I am already envisioning ways to incorporate them in a themed event I am planning. The good news is that not only do they come in a variety of colours but they are also soooo reasonably priced! .....check out them out!

Super Chic

2009-08-25T01:22:00.000-07:00

I love browsing inspiration boards. Its my nightly treat (or obsession, depends on who you ask!) So imagine my excitement when I came across this gorgeous design created by the uber talented Mrs Kim of The Event Essentials. A chic design that can be used for a reception, a soiree, a bridal luncheon or even a teen's birthday party...either way, its sure to let your guests know that they are in for a fabulous time!

The Symbolism of Flowers

2009-08-24T18:29:00.000-07:00

So while browsing through my email yesterday, I came across an email sent to me from Deborah LaFranchi Couture Gowns about the symbolism of flowers. I thought it was a great article to share, and who knows, maybe you will change the type of flowers you had in mind for that dream bouquet or decor.....so here goes....Happy reading!

Ambrosia.... love returned

Anemone.... expectation

Apple Blossom ....hope, good fortune, better things to come

Baby's Breath...innocence, pure heart

Bluebell...constancy

Blue voilet...faithfulness

Calla Lily...beauty

Camellia...loveliness, gratitude

Daffodil...regard, joy

Daisy...gentleness, innocence

Forget-Me-Not...remembrance, true love

Freesia...innocence

Gardenia...purity

Heather...future fortune

Heliotrope...devotion, faithfulness

Hyacinth...loveliness

Iris...warmth of affection

Ivy...fidelity

Lilac...youthful innocence

Lily...majesty

Lily of the Valley...happiness

Orange Blossom...purity, virginity

Orchid...rare beauty

Queen Anne's Lace...trust

Rose...red love

Rose-yellow...friendship

Rose-white...innocence

Rose-pale pink...grace

Rose-dark pink...thankfulness

Fall is in the Air!!

2009-08-21T21:09:00.000-07:00

So I know summer is still in full swing, but I thought I should be an early bird and highlight a few ideas I have been putting together for a fall wedding. Fall indicates rich vibrant colors of red, orange, yellow and green. Photographer Charlotte Geary captured this beautifully and I have the pleasure of bringing them to you.....be inspired!

Need to Hire a Wedding Vendor?

2009-08-21T14:11:00.000-07:00

Blue Orchids Designs and Think Splendid Comuunications have created this fantastic ebook which can be downloaded for FREE. The Wedding Vendor Hiring Guide is a must have for the DIY bride and groom as it contains important questions to ask all vendors before hiring.....ENJOY!!

Elegant Wedding Gowns

2009-08-20T19:54:00.000-07:00

Looking for that elegant, sophisticated wedding gown? Check out the new designs from Edens Bridal. Here is just a sample of what they have to offer....

Mouthwatering Signature Cocktail Drinks

2009-08-19T16:45:00.000-07:00

So, awhile back, I started this series where I would find unique and DELICIOUS cocktails and bring them to you as way to incorporate them in your event. Signature cocktails can add sophistication to your wedding or event without being expensive, and its a great way for your guests to have fun either during the cocktail hour or at the reception! Here I have found a few on InStyle Weddings which I am sure will let your (and your guests) mouth water!

Real Wedding of the Day

2009-08-19T15:22:00.000-07:00

I love it when my girlfriends from high school get married. It makes me realise how grown up we all are now! This week, I have the pleasure of showcasing two beautiful brides located on each side of the Atlantic. Claudette in Toronto and Sophie in Liverpool, England. Both are absolutely stunning! Congrats Girls!!

Claudette in Toronto

Sophie in Liverpool

2009-08-18T15:47:00.000-07:00

I am a huge fanatic of Hell's Kitchen, so when I found out that Gordon Ramsey's flagship restaurant The London here in Los Angeles, hosts weddings and events, I just had to head on over there for a look. Phenomenal!

A Rather Pink Bridal Luncheon

2009-08-18T15:09:00.001-07:00

In searching for ideas to create an amazing pink affair for a bride, I came across this table setting and was utterly inspired. Its sort of elegant-vintage, just what my bride requires. Thought I should share.

Summer Beauty!

2009-08-17T12:22:00.000-07:00

Continuing with my summer theme, I found this beautiful floral arrangement on Martha Stewart's website. How simple, yet stunning! This arrangement can add an amazing effect for that beach themed or sophisticated wedding. Visit Martha Stewart for instructions cuz you know Martha makes everything from scratch!

For the eco-friendly, more garden friendly look, why not go for this simple yet elegant design! The materials can come from your very own garden or can be purchased rather inexpensively at a reputable garden center. Candles add to the warm glow effect.

Unique Bridal Bouquets

2009-08-16T16:52:00.000-07:00

The economy being the way it is, alot of couples are looking for ways to cut back but still have an amazing event. Flowers do indeed make any event look spectacular but I have found a few unique ideas which will create that pop effect yet still saving on cost. These arrangements, found on Martha Stewart Weddings use paper products to create a chic yet inexpensive look.....

..and these, found at http://www.siwarweddingbouquet.com, offer another unique look but are made from a cloth like material.....stunning!

Again, simplicity is so beautiful!!

2009-08-13T01:35:00.000-07:00

I love the way simple things can have a dramatic effect!....Look how simple these decors are!....check out the artists website @ http://www.sabiiwabii.etsy.com/...amazing!

Real Wedding of the Day!

2009-08-13T01:23:00.000-07:00

Today's real wedding of the day comes to you all the way from Jamaica!!.....One of the bridesmaid is actually a high school mate!
What a beautiful set of people!

What a stunning event!

2009-08-01T23:29:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful event found on Style Me Pretty blog!.....head on over there for more inspirational ideas!

Real Wedding of the Day

2009-07-29T14:56:00.000-07:00

What an awesome job photographer Lem Lynch did with this photo. I love, love LOVE the red contrast against the black and white.....the colors are rich and vibrant but we still have the main focus of the bride.....beautiful job. I will be posting more from this photographer so keep checking back for more!

One of the Most Amazing Cakes I Have Ever Seen!!

2009-07-27T01:04:00.001-07:00

Do I even need to say anything?!!.....its pure perfection!

The baker is not based in the US, but gosh!....Can you imagine having a cake like this at your beach themed wedding?!

Alternatives to Floral Centerpieces

2009-07-26T00:59:00.000-07:00

While traditional centerpieces are usually floral designs, some brides are adamant that they want an alternative. I have worked with brides who hate the idea of having flowers and have created unique ways to go against the norm. Here are some alternatives I have found at yourweddingcompany.com to show you that you can have a stunning arrangement sans flowers.

Simple=Stunning!

2009-07-25T20:40:00.001-07:00

Here are a few instances where simple designs can have a stunning effect!

The Beauty in Invitations!

2009-07-24T12:37:00.000-07:00

Gosh, I love my job! I love the planning, executing and the look on the brides' and guests' face when a wedding is truly spectacular. I love doing my research to find the most beautiful and unique accessories and arrangements. So imagine my delight when I stumbled across this website www.crystalprint.co.za/ for invitations! I love the intricate detail of even the simpler looking ones. Feast your eyes ladies!

It's all About The Bouquet!

2009-07-24T02:27:00.000-07:00

One of the most important part of the bride's attire is her bouquet. It adds beauty, symbolism and color to her presence as she carries it at her waist down the aisle. Sadly,it is the first (and only!) wedding accessory to be destroyed, as the bride, in keeping with tradition has to throw it at all single ladies present at her reception. But one cannot help admiring their beauty as it speaks volume to the bride's personality. So while searching for a stunning bouquet for a bride of mine, I came across the Martha Stewart website where I have found and just had to share, some of the most stunning bouquets which come in a variety of shapes, textures and colors, which I am sure you will fall in love with.

2009-07-24T00:56:00.001-07:00

Glitter Graphics Maker & MySpace Layouts

How To Create a Beach Themed Wedding on a Budget

2009-07-22T16:14:00.000-07:00

For those who have worked with me know that I LOVE planning summer beach themed weddings. Not that I don’t like planning and executing all types of wedding, I do, but there is just something about summer weddings that bring out a hidden passion in me which gives me sleepless nights just thinking about the outcome...very exciting! So with that said, I have done a few research, plus those from my own experiences working with beach brides on ways to have that dream summer wedding without breaking the bank.

Now we all know that you would like nothing more than whisking off all your love ones to Figi, or Aruba or Jamaica but I am going to show you ways to have that same island feeling right there in your back yard.

Ok so first up…what do we all associate with the beach?..That’s right-shells, sand and pebbles. Sea shells can be used in a variety of ways to bring about that beach feeling and they are cheap and easily found. Just visit your local dollar store or art and craft store where you will find pebbles, sand …all the things you can find on the beach at very affordable prices. The shells can be used as candles,(I have written an article in a previous post on making sea shell candles), used as appetizer holders, they can be decorated and used as favors or they can be used as a bouquet…yes, a bouquet! I have stumbled across this site shelloutlet.com where they have numerous ideas in using sea shells to create that beach theme at your wedding and they have this fabulous bouquet that you can decorate in whatever color. Not only will you have that “pop” effect, but it will also be a very unique use of sea shells which will definitely impress your guests. The sand and pebbles can also be found in a variety of colors. I once found in the dollar store an array of colored sand which worked well for my bride. If you can’t find the colors you need, just buy the plain sand and the coloring powder of your choice and there you have it…yellow sand, blue sand…the possibilities are endless!!

Next, invitations. Your invitations set the theme for your wedding, so if you want a beach themed event, visit your local art and craft store (can you tell that this is one of my favorite places?!)and there you can find all different types of textured paper and accessories to create that unique invitation. With a few craft items such as glue and pencils, you can let your imagination flow as you create the invitation that best suits your personality. I once had a bride who used the same shells she used as favors, glued to her invitations, and with fancy lettering, created one of the most beautiful invitations I have ever seen. Another got the color paper she was using for her wedding theme, and with the use of a computer program like Microsoft Publisher, she was able to use unique lettering to create a beautiful invitation.

The food is another component of your wedding that you can create on a tight budget yet still bring about that beach feeling. Think heat and the ways of cooling down. Not ice-cream (though you could have if you so wish) but sorbets and snow cones as something the guests can munch on during your “cocktail” hour. Or shrimp cocktail. Visit your local fish monger (tell them it’s for your wedding and you will more than likely get a discount!) or famers market where you can get these in bulk at affordable prices, then visit (again!) your dollar store or your local department store for unique looking glasses and decorations to display them in. Think of a favorite drink you had when you visited the islands, or something that sounds tropical and create a signature cocktail, instead of having an open bar. I am thinking Jamaican Rum and watermelon twist or your take on a long island iced tea, mint mojitos…..anything with an island feel to it. Chilled soups are also a favorite among budget conscious brides as well as fresh fruits…think mangoes, pineapples, kiwis….those that have an island feeling to them!

Your decor is another element which can bring about that beach feeling. Paper lanterns, twinkle lights, palm trees (fake of course!), water centerpieces (such a floating candles or flower petals in a bowl or gold fish (yes real ones) with your favorite flowers), parasols (try hanging these instead of paper lanterns!), hand fans uniquely decorated for your guests…these all can give you that pop effect. And don’t forget the music….a mariachi band, a soca band or a mixed CD complied with your favorite Bob Marley songs can put you right in the midst of the islands!

So, there you have it. A few simple ways to bring about that beach feeling at your wedding and all these ideas are very affordable. Incorporate them in your wedding and I guarantee your guests will be talking about your wedding for years to come!.....Stay tuned for more tips and ideas!

XOXO! Tammy

Home Made Sea Shell Candles

2009-07-21T13:35:00.000-07:00

With summer still in full swing, what better way to save on your summer themed wedding than with home made sea shell candles? Whether you are having your nuptials on the beach or in your back yard with a beach theme, I think these will be a beautiful and cost saving addition to your celebrations. I found them on Martha Stewart's website and came with instructions on how to make them, so here goes......

1. First of all, you will need parafin wax (soy is excellent if you can get it and they come in a variety of colors, so you can choose the color that best match your theme), sea shells (scallops, clams or quahogs are best because they last longer), wicking thread, metal wick holder and a boiler. All these can be found at your local art and craft store.

2. Clean shells in a weak solution of bleach and water and let air dry. Melt parafin wax in the top of a double boiler. Cut the wicking to 2-3 inches, and attach the metal wick holder-set aside.

3. Pour melted wax in shell, then place the wicker and holder in the bottom of the shell-be careful, remember it is hot!. Let cool for 30 mins.

4. You can also use tea lights, as a short method and just change as required especially if you are going to keep them around after the wedding!

I'm back!

2009-07-21T00:34:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!...I know, I know, its been a while but the last few months have been truly emotionally and physically exhausting for me. For those of you who know me personally, I did have my baby girl on May 6, 2009......she was perfect in every way.....my angel from Heaven. Well she did spend a few days in the NICU and then did her surgery, but all is well so lets not dwell on the past. The good Grace of God has taken me through it, so now I am back to put a 100% back in my business.

Gosh I have missed it! But I am back with a full force. I have joined Twitter and am so surprised by the amount of followers I have!, and have created my fan page on facebook.....no one told me social marketing was this much fun!

I have been doing a lot of research to get back in the groove and have come across some fantastic ideas, so stay tuned as I will be sharing them all in the coming days and months. First up, I will be doing a Monday Morning Mumba! (yeah, I made that up!). I know Mondays can be a drag, what with the weekend being over, so I will be posting delightful treats, fabulous finds, and a bunch of creative and inspirational ideas......so stay tuned!...Its so good to be back but I am gonna stop talking now...will save some of this excitement for other posts!!!!

Fruits are Perfect as Centerpieces for Autumn Weddings

2008-10-10T10:44:00.000-07:00

I think I should begin my series of centerpiece discussions with the idea of using fruits as centerpieces. With the Fall season in its full swing, fruits are the perfect way to add pizzaz to your wedding decor.....either as centerpieces or throughout your ceremony and reception, as well as serve as a great way to save of your wedding expenses. Moreover, they are fantastic as little treats throughout the reception or can double as favors for your guests. Think about it, would you rather spend thousands on flowers only for them to be tossed after or use edible treats that your guests can enjoy, as well as show that you are environmentally savvy? One great find I have came upon and used on a few occasions is arrangements that can be used as centerpieces by Edible Arrangements (ediblearrangements.com), and they have always been a crowd pleaser!.

Another way to use fruits is simply inserting them in glass vases and just letting them shine. Do-it-yourself-weddings.com have got some fantastic ideas that I have found interesting, and that a DIY bride would love!!

2008-10-09T10:50:00.000-07:00

Hi, guys. I know its been awhile, but with the busy summer wedding season, and countless trips abroad for a few destinations weddings, I kind of lost track on updating my blog. My sincere apologies. I have a ton of new ideas, pics, and events which I will be sharing with you over the coming weeks, as well as my constant finds, but for now, just to reassure you, I havent gone anywhere. So look out for all the exciting things to come!!...I promise!!

Win The Services of a Wedding Planner!!

2008-08-17T15:32:00.000-07:00

Getting Married?!

Getting married but can’t afford a wedding planner? Or maybe you can, but would rather spend the money on making your wedding day even more spectacular? Well, here’s your chance to win the services of a coordinator for free! That’s right-free! Start enjoying the wedding planning process, and rest assured that your special day will be handled with professionalism, dedication and attention to detail to make it as perfect as possible!
Among the things you will win include full or partial coordination (up to you), budget preparation, theme development, assistance with venue selection, booking the right vendors and more!
Simply go to pinkoasisevents.com and leave your name and email address to enter in the draw, or email tammy@pinkoasisevents.com with your information. Good luck!

*must be getting married in Southern California within the next year.

Rock Star Themed Wedding Cupcakes

2008-08-15T14:55:00.000-07:00

Always on the look out for inspiration for my brides, I came across a website which had some interesting cupcakes for themed weddings. I am particularly in love with this rock star themed cupcake which will make any reception pop-not to mention the appetites of the guests!

check them out......http://www.cupcakesnouveau.com/

How Cute!!!

2008-08-13T14:28:00.000-07:00

I can't help it, I just had to share with you this find! I don't want to give the impression that I only work with the color pink, (cuz I don't, I like working with all colors!) but I got so excited when I found this that I just had to share! This would definately work for a pink themed wedding, a summer wedding, if you are a huge addict to marshmellows, or maybe you want to incorporate your childhood memories in your wedding. This would also be perfect as a groom's cake (obviously changing the color!) Check out their website for more inspirations. I think they are great! http://www.pinkfrosting.com.au/.

2008-08-12T16:30:00.000-07:00

I love cocktails! Admit it, which girl doesn't? It's no wonder so many brides incorporate their favorite cocktail into the theme of their wedding. I am always on the lookout for signature cocktails for my clients, so for the month of August I will be sharing these with you! My latest find is a Jamaican inspired signature cocktail from the website cocktailtimes.com. So if you're having a garden, outdoor or beach themed wedding, why not get inspired-it will have you and your guests saying "yeah mon!!"

Ingredients

-1 1/2 oz Appleton White Jamaican Rum

-3 oz cranberry juice

- 3 oz grapefruit juice

- garnish with orange wedge

Mix all ingredients together in a cocktail shaker with ice. Serve in a tall glass and varnish.

Reasons To Hire a Wedding Planner/Coordinator

2008-08-11T19:26:00.000-07:00

Weddings are fun, but planning them can be time consuming and stressful. You suddenly find yourself experiencing extreme euphoria from getting engaged, only to be hit with the realisation that you have a huge project to get underway. Where to have the ceremony and reception, which florist to go to, which caterer to use, which photographer will do a great job, all while keeping to a budget. Even if you are the most organised, detail oriented bride, the use of a wedding planner, even just for the wedding day, will be a tremendous "investment". A planner is especially needed if you have never been involved in the wedding planning process, if you have no idea where to start in planning a wedding or if you need inspiration with theme development.

Weddings can be expensive, and I have known brides who thought that not having a planner would save them money. However, being on a tight budget is just what is recommended, as experienced planners have worked with women in a similar situation, and as such have the resources to plan and execute a beautiful event no matter the budget. You also have to remember that a lot of planners are in this business because they truly have a passion for weddings, and will not, having realised that you're on a tight budget, take "advanantage" of the situation. A reputable planner will work with you, offering you invaluable advice on making your day as perfect as can be.

Having said that, I have compiled a list with my top tips for hiring a wedding planner.

1. As mentioned before, the wedding planning process is very stressful. It is afterall the most elaborate event you will plan. You have to think of where to host the ceremony and reception, find reputable vendors, know what you are signing in the contracts-the list goes on and on. Even if you have been planning your wedding since you were a little girl, there are still things that can be overlooked. How to transport guests from one location to the other, the gifts for the grooms' parents-the list can be overwhelming. A wedding planner can alleviate all these stress as she will have the resources and a wealth of information, not to mention experience in stress management to handle all the details for your big day.

2. A planner is excellent at budget management, and is well versed in creating a budget and often succeed in helping couples stick to it. Whether, you have a large or small budget, a planner can use the resources she has available to her to find the necessary vendors, often those she has worked with on several occasions, and as such can negotiate discounts on your behalf.

3. The wedding planning industry is a very tight knit community, and as such, planners have inside information on who is reliable and who is not. With this knowledge, they are able to inform you on the most reputable vendors who can help make your dream day come true. The idea of hiring a caterer who, for eg, on the day of the wedding decides not to show up or worst, show up and serve warmed up can food, would surely be one you would rather not entertain!

4. Planning a wedding is time consuming. There are many elements that come together to create an amazing wedding. A wedding planner can save you time by researching the best vendors, and coming up with creative ideas to create your dream day.

5. In all effort to keep this short, I will end by saying that above all else, a wedding planner is needed for your big day. She will be the one directing traffic, seeing to all the set up, corresponding with all the vendors, being the go-to person- all the things you would not want to do on your very special day.

GOOD LUCK!

Gay and Lesbian Marriage Fair in Southern California!

2008-08-10T16:38:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to be attending my first gay and lesbian marriage fair here in Southern California. I just know it will be a day filled with excitement, what with meeting clients, veterans and vendors in the wedding industry. Even though I will be attending, I will not have a booth, but my information will be in the promotional packs Marc and the team will be handing out. I can already envision myself working with a couple knowing that this celebration will be extra special for them. I am also anticipating that alot of these weddings will be a quickie, meaning they will happen within the next two to four months. So, with all my preparation, I am ready to dive in!

In case you haven't heard, on August 23rd, Marc Joseph and his team will be hosting a gay and lesbian marriage fair here in Southern California...check out their flyer....exciting!

or their website.....www. marcjoseph. com/marriage. html

Latest Wedding Trend-Going Green!

2008-07-10T12:10:00.000-07:00

A wedding is one of the most important days in a couple’s life. If you care about the planet, why not integrate your principles into your big day? With the average cost of a US wedding running at around $20,000 it seems obvious that weddings have a huge footprint, both ecological and economical. Going green doesn’t mean you have to compromise on your big day, though. By taking a look at the bigger picture, you can move beyond the usual decadence and consumption to create a truly personal, moving, and sustainable celebration that people will remember for years. You may even open a few eyes in the process…

Here are some tips to aid in your decision to go green!

1. Any and all things for your green wedding can be found locally. From locally grown flowers, to food-the local farmers market is a great place to start. There are many catering companies that are beginning to use only organic foods to cater events, as well as design companies that uses only bio-degradeable products. The choices are limitless. A seasoned wedding planner can point you in the right directions as to where and who to go to in planning your green wedding.

2. Choosing a wedding location that is close to most of your guests will definitely lessen the burden on the environment in terms of transport needs. Let the guests know before hand that you would like them to carpool, or you could have a shuttle bus transport all your guests to and from the ceremony and reception. Another way to cut back on transport would be to have the ceremony and reception at the same site, thus eliminating the need for extensive travelling.

3. Consider the type of location you will be using. Unless you are obligated to a certain religion, you can have you ceremony and reception at a local community garden, a beachside, or a gorgeous backyard or park. Or you could host your wedding at a local charity organisation. This way, your guests will know you and your partner's true passion, while creating a source of revenue for the location.

4. Think about all the paper source you will be using for your wedding-the invitations. You don't want them to look cheap or tacky, (and believe me they wont) but invitations can be the highlight of your green wedding. Many invitation companies are using recycled, handmade and tree free invitations. Getmarried.com has a list of companies offering such services. Alternatively, another trend on the rise is the use of electronic invites.

5. I think the most obvious would be to give plants or seeds as wedding favors. What better way for your guests to be as environmentally friendly as you by planting trees!!!

Choices of Venue

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-Banqueting Suite
-Castle
-Civic Premises
-Country House
-Exclusive-Use Hotel
-Sport Stadium
-Function Room
-Golf Club
-Hotel
-Marquee
-Museum
-Pub/Lounge
-Restaurant
-River Boat
-Stately Home
-Theatre
-Zoo
-Garden
-Beach

The type of reception venue you choose will depend on whether you are getting married in church, register office or in one of the many approved buildings licensed for civil weddings.

Your next considerations could be whether it suits the style or theme of your wedding; its proximity to your church or register office; the number of guests you wish to invite and finally, but most importantly, your budget.

You may have in mind the kind of affair you would like, but if its not financially possible, forget it. It really isnt worth the worry.Whether you decide to hold your reception in a hotel, stately home, hall, pub, restaurant, racecourse or on a river cruiser, you must book well in advance, especially if its to be on a Saturday in the summer. If you have set your heart on a particular venue, but the Saturday is booked, consider a weekday or Sunday wedding, it could work out considerably cheaper too.Make sure your chosen venue suits all your requirements: car parking, cloakrooms, special arrangements for small children, wheelchair access.

Plus, find out how late they can serve drinks and play music. You may also need an attractive location for photographs, particularly if one was not available at your church or register office.Wherever you choose, always check exactly whats included in the price.

If its a "package deal" with other services included, such as flowers and entertainment, are you committed to use those services, or will it be flexible to your needs? Are there any additional costs such as service charges, VAT, a "corkage" charge if you buy your own wines?Always confirm your booking in writing with as much detail as possible and get a receipt for deposits and the date to settle the bill.It is a good idea to ask someone to visit the venue on the morning of your wedding to check that all your arrangements have been carried out.

Today's tip of the day-naming tables

2008-06-20T10:10:00.000-07:00

Instead of numbering the tables, give each table a particular theme, especially if the reception is being held outdoors. Go with flower names for each table..rose, lillies...you get the idea. Or name each table with a place you and your fiance have visited....instead of the names though, place pictures, so guests can feel more involved in the decor.

Introduction to my business

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I think I finally did it! After years of working in the wedding planning business in Britain, I have landed here in Los Angeles, with the same passion and desire of creating magical events for my brides.

I hope this blog will assist brides in all their planning needs. I am here to offer tips, advice and suggestions on how to make your dream day come to life.

Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions.....I am your fairy wedding godmother!!

Welcome to Pink Oasis Events and congratulations on your special event. We at Pink Oasis Events cater to all needs, details and fantasies for your event. We specialize in destination and home based weddings, themed events, children’s, teens’ and adults’ birthday parties, bar and bat mitzvahs, quinceaneras, milestone events, family reunions, grand openings…and many more.
If your want dedicated professionals who have a knack for perfection, and excellent relationships with clients and vendors, then Pink Oasis Events is your team. We will ensure that your event will be the talk of the town for years to come……Pink Oasis Events…..you dream it, we make it come to life!!

Contact: Tammy Kudratt
tammy@pinkoasisevents.com
pinkoasisevents.com
310 904 3212