A Destiny Style Affair

Our Blog Has Gone Mobile With a New Look!

2011-11-02T00:59:00.004-04:00

I must confess I am definitely a techie nerd.

When I was in elementary school I always chose the Apple IIe, in high school I preferred the Macintosh in the computer lab and now I am a proud member of #teamapple with Mac's all over my offices in the Bahamas, Jamaica and the US. In fact we have about 15 different Mac's ranging from MacBook's to MacMini's to iMac's to iPhone's to iPad's. It's amazing I have not changed my name to iPJ or the company's name to iAD4D! (LOL)

So when I visited other blogs built on WordPress I was kind of jealous. Their mobile versions were awesome. Now with Google's Blogspot - our blog is awesome too. I love that the mobile version feels just as "warm and fuzzy" as the full version. Visit this page from your mobile phone or iPad and see what I mean.

Enjoy A Design For Destiny's new blog look as I send greetings to you from somewhere across the globe planning the next event!

For more information on Event Planning, Décor, Florals, Rentals or price quotes for printed and assembled ensembles or to order blank boxes or paper stock for your upcoming shower, wedding, party, anniversary or DIY project, contact A Design For Destiny at (877) 883-3784 or (281) 738-5033 in the US and Canada or (242) 676-6732 in the Caribbean. Reach out to us today! We have Dedicated Event Specialists in Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Atlanta, Fort Lauderdale, The Bahamas and Jamaica planning events WORLDWIDE!

Thanks!

PJ Douglas Sands

A DESIGN FOR DESTINY

LUXURY EVENT DESIGNERS

& CELEBRITY WEDDING PLANNERS

www.design4destiny.com

Tropical Bali - An Inspiration Board

2011-08-03T10:42:00.000-04:00

Nothing evokes a tropical ocean breeze like these woven buri fans. Whether you’re planning a tropical-themed wedding, beach wedding or any outdoor event in the spring or summer, these practical favors will keep your guests cool and comfortable.

We love this color pallette which is cool for summer destinations. Colors like shades of aqua, sandalwood or perhaps accents of green and crisp white compliment all skin tones.

Check out A Design For Destiny's Fan Favors. Contact us for pricing.

We also carry paper lanterns in various colors, shapes and sizes.

Thanks!

PJ Douglas Sands

A DESIGN FOR DESTINY

LUXURY EVENT DESIGNERS

& CELEBRITY WEDDING PLANNERS

www.design4destiny.com

On the Go Theme? It's Boarding Pass Invitations - Part 1

2011-07-29T10:38:00.000-04:00

A destination event is a wedding or event that takes place more than 50 miles away from where you live where you and/or your guests might have to stay overnight for the event. Although a destination event saves money often for the host as less people end up attending when it's not in your hometown, the host must show deep appreciation for those who have sacrificed time and money to come to your event. Nothing says "thank you" like quality food, fun, favors and custom stationery!

Check out a sampling of some of our best boarding pass invitations and favors.

In love with Metallic papers but don't know how to use the Boarding Pass theme? Kathleen and Delroy were married in Jamaica and used a 4x6" card with rounded edges for elegance and simplicity.

For a more elegant look seperate the invitation card from the Response Card. This allows your enclosure card to detail both RSVP details and Registry information.

The Pocket/Enclosure Style has become popular with brides and grooms that like to use colored pouches and pockets to show off those wonderful wedding colors. The boarding pass invitation shown here has a belly band to keep it all together, a beautifully monogrammed motif on the cover and a pocket for the Enclosure Card, RSVP or Monetary Gift Envelope and the Gift Registry Card.

Looking for something destination themed as a favor? Anthony and Nicole were married in the Bahamas and used the Boarding Pass theme on a magnet as a Save the Date. It was small, affordable and any extras were used on the table as favors.

As shown here you can have 1 enclosure that takes the place of the Invitation and the Response Card.

Thanks!

PJ Douglas Sands

A DESIGN FOR DESTINY

LUXURY EVENT DESIGNERS

& CELEBRITY WEDDING PLANNERS

www.design4destiny.com

Book Fall 2011 Invitations and Stationery Spots Now

2011-07-27T11:00:00.001-04:00

If you are planning to MAIL or DELIVER your invitations or save the date's for your upcoming event at the end of October or later, reserve your spot on A Design For Destiny's calendar NOW.

Our Design Start Dates fill up in advance quickly. You will want to reserve a Design Start Date no later than 6 to 8 weeks prior to your intended Mail or Delivery Date.

Although we boast 2-3 week turnaround for custom designed invitations and 3-4 week turnaround for custom design programs, we have a limited amount of design slots due to the overwhelming interest in our quality, design work.

Thanks!

PJ Douglas Sands

A DESIGN FOR DESTINY

LUXURY EVENT DESIGNERS

& CELEBRITY WEDDING PLANNERS

www.design4destiny.com

Affordable Invites With a Flair - They're Back!

2011-05-24T19:17:00.001-04:00

Gone are the days where the affordable invitations which come US$100-160 for 100 quantity are plain in white or ecru paper with one of two color ink in that blah font.

Now the trend is color - color - color. Everyone's on some sort of budget, and with so much on the bride and groom's collective plate - everyone's out of time. Introducing our latest invitations which come under US $160 for 100 quantity plus shipping to our US or Canada customers.

For those shipping internationally, remember you have to add international shipping charges and customs duties and excise taxes to the US/Canada order total. So that's BSD$280 for 100 quantity for those picking up in the Bahamas or JA$23,000 for 100 quantity for those picking up in Jamaica.

First budget buster: The Sep n Send.

The thing we love about the Sep n Send which makes it so affordable is that they come as a perforated 3 piece ensemble which includes the invitation card, reception card and response card (which can also be used as a gift registry or direction card). They also come with matching inner envelopes, outer envelopes and printed enclosure/response envelopes. Because the only go through 1 printing process per color ink, you can get a thermography (raised) ink printed invitation ensemble at a great price. Here are some of the invites we love from our McPherson's and Carlson Craft lines. If you want to spice up these invites, you can always add a backer in a contrasting metallic or matte color for that 2 or 3 layer pop.

Second Budget Buster: Seal n Send

The thing we love about the Seal n Send is the take off on the pocket invitation which has become so popular in the last several years. Seal n Send's now have patterns, colors, ribbons, graphic images and photos. You can really hit your budget and give a unique invitation to your guest that will be saved as a keepsake for years to come. Here are some fabulous Seal n Send's which come in under US $160 for 100 quantity and include thermograph printed invitation, clear round seals and a perforated enclosure card which can be used as a reception, response or gift registry card as well as a direction card.

For a quote on any of the invitations you see here or a custom design, contact us. Check out our website at www.design4destiny.com.

Thanks!

PJ Douglas Sands

A DESIGN FOR DESTINY

LUXURY EVENT DESIGNERS

& CELEBRITY WEDDING PLANNERS

www.design4destiny.com

Sophisticated Yet Affordable Invitations for Summer and Fall 2011

2011-04-25T09:45:00.000-04:00

I'm so excited to see some of the new invitation styles for the Summer and Fall. Classic styles, embossed designs, letterpress, vivid colors for parties, weddings, showers, anniversaries and everything else in between. It's all about color, graphics and being unique.

Pink Floral Invitation

A beautiful white-on-white pocket folder with embossed flowers cradles this fresh and clean invitation. Soft pink flowers and layers of white and pink set the tone for an extraordinary event. It measures 6.5" x 6.5" and the jacket is a smooth white pearl heavy cover stock. The two-layered invitation is a white felt finish cover stock on a rosa colored cover stock with a tiled finish. All complete with a letterpress graphic and thermograph raised text.

Blue Hydrangea Invitation

No photo can really do this cobalt blue invitation justice. The details of the silkscreened hydrangea is stunning on this contemporary work of art. This invite measures 6.25" x 6.25" and it is printed with a raised thermographed text and silkscreened graphic on a Colbalt colored, smooth cover weight stock.

Seashore Invitation

For an elegant beach wedding this shimmering card bordered with rattan is revealed when this invitation is opened. Sealed with a matching medallion it measures 5.75" x 7.75" and is printed with Raised thermographed text. The jacket is a smooth, pearlized white heavy cover stock and it is a perfectly assembled triple layer. The top white linen finished cover stock is inset on a smooth, mint iridescent cover stock upon a woven cane base.

Say Something Music Invitation

I couldn't talk about anything unique or outstanding without including a music-themed one. This 80s book box themed invitation is perfect for that special entertainer! It comes in black or fuschia and measures 5x7" with a checkerboard backer layer. Printed on one of our thickest stocks with a choice of luxurious soft cotton, pearlescent shimmer or 100% recycled stock, the texture and design combine to make it playful, yet sophisticated.

The Photo Invitation

Get your photo taken professionally by an amazing photographer then theme the entire event around it starting with this wonderful photo invitation which measures 5x7". Use a backing layer that pops with color in an exciting pattern and texture and have it printed with a digital press. Nothing says "its about you" better than your photo!

Pocket Full of Sunshine Invitation

This white pocket has a floral pattern inside and holds a colorfully bordered invitation. The Pocket measures 5.75" x 8" folded and the Invitation card measures 5.5" x 7.75" and the invitation comes in Lipstick, Canary (shown), Citrine, Hydrangea, Monarch, and Sea.

For a quote on any of the invitations you see here or a custom design, contact us. Check out our website at www.design4destiny.com.

Thanks!

PJ Douglas Sands

A DESIGN FOR DESTINY

LUXURY EVENT DESIGNERS

& CELEBRITY WEDDING PLANNERS

www.design4destiny.com

Cake Toppers - making it fun and all about YOU

2011-04-24T17:52:00.001-04:00

The wedding cake topper is often one of the most unique and personal items that the bride and groom will get to choose. But it’s also one thing brides often stress about. Forget the days of plasticine, poorly painted toppers that looked stiff and uncomfortable. Today’s wedding cake toppers are beautiful and original.

Consider your hobbies when picking a wedding cake topper and also your uniqueness as a couple. If you’re not the traditional couple, why have a traditional cake topper?

Today’s couples are choosing cake jewelry more and more as their cake toppers. They’ll have splashes of faux jewels in the shape of hearts, butterflies, rain drops, star fish or any other shape they can think of. Often, they are suspended by wire and placed into the cake for a waterfall effect. Also, rhinestone hearts with the couple’s new last initial will be featured on top of the cake. Or three letters are sometimes used for the couple’s first initials and a larger last name initial. These monogram cake toppers are really cute yet glamorous.

The brides and grooms on today’s cake toppers can be made from glass, acrylic, porcelain or really well done plastic. Many couples are choosing small pieces of sculpture for their cakes. The sculptures are more realistic, show the brides and grooms in more detail and can even be customized to look like the bride and groom. Many brides even go so far as to have their actual wedding dress recreated for the figurine on the top of the cake.

Poses are now all the rage. You may see a bride chasing after a reluctant groom on the top of the cake or a groom on bended knee kissing his new bride’s hand. The sculptural aspects can range from funny—think a guy fishing off his wedding cake while the bride looks on in mock disapproval—or sentimental, like a bride and groom in a picture frame as the “picture perfect couple.”

Many wedding cakes are now going without toppers too. Flowers are being used as sculpture. Fresh flowers can be arranged by either your cake decorator or your florist into a lovely presentation that requires no additional adornment. Some cakes even go without flowers and just have edible gold or silver jewels to dress them.

Gone are the days when you had to choose a cardboard figure off a shelf. You can shop for lovely wedding cake toppers online and find a variety of looks and styles that will perfectly suit your tastes. You’re not limited to Caucasian brides and grooms anymore either. Cake topper companies have now gotten wise and offer a wide range of ethnicities to choose from.

Today’s cakes are anything but ordinary. Your cake topper should be extraordinary too. Use your favorite colors, theme or personalities to come up with something really different. There are even skeleton brides and grooms these days, so anything goes. Go all out and your friends and family will definitely remember your topper. Make it yourself or shop online. Nothing is too wacky or too funky. Go for what really speaks to you and you’ll be right in keeping with today’s trends.

Article from: Sarah at Here Comes the Blog

Thanks!

PJ Douglas Sands

A DESIGN FOR DESTINY

LUXURY EVENT DESIGNERS

& CELEBRITY WEDDING PLANNERS

www.design4destiny.com

Tips For Choosing Outstanding, Unique Wedding Colors

2011-03-25T11:32:00.002-04:00

As an event planner with 14 years of experience, a custom design stationer and lots of international celebrity clientele. I always get asked "how should I choose my event or wedding colors?"

Well, colors set the theme for the entire event- decorations, stationery, attire - so colors should be fun PLUS compliment the skin tones of those wearing them. Nothing is worse than a bride seeing her best friends completely washed out by colors that just don't work.

Choosing colors should be fun so here are some tips to get you started.

1. What mood are you looking to convey? Romantic means softer colors. Formal means darker colors. Fun and dramatic? That means bolder and brighter.

2. What time of year is your wedding or party? Spring means lighter and brighter because colors draw heat. Do you want your outdoor guests melting in dark colors while they take their photos? No way!

3. Here are the Pantone color trend forecasts for Spring 2011 and Fall 2011. What does that mean? The company Pantone which creates the colors that designers, paint companies and fabric manufacturers are inspired by and use came up with some colors to highlight that became popular in 2010. That means the florists, designers and stationers will be pushing these colors this year to you!

SPRING 2011 Pantone Colors

FALL 2011 Pantone Colors

And of course, you've heard everywhere in every magazine, blog and wedding show plus you hear it all the time from Martha Stewart - Honeysuckle Pink is the 2011 Pantone Color of the Year! Courageous. Confident. Vital.
A brave new color, for a brave new world. It’s a color for every day – with nothing “everyday” about it. While the 2010 color of the year, PANTONE 15-5519 Turquoise, served as an escape for many, Honeysuckle emboldens us to face everyday troubles with verve and vigor. A dynamic reddish pink, Honeysuckle is encouraging and uplifting. It elevates our psyche beyond escape, instilling the confidence, courage and spirit to meet the exhaustive challenges that have become part of everyday life.

4. Where is your reception? Choose colors that compliment the room. Do NOT select colors that clash. Change your colors if the room will look horrible. It makes the florist and decor designer jobs more difficult. Sometimes it makes the bill much more expensive as draping with fabric to cover clashes can be pricey.

5. What are you and your fiance's favorite colors? Choose one color not both then use this Online Color Scheme Generator to find complimentary colors in a range of shades.

6. Once you decide and choose colors use them everywhere! Incorporate a monogram and use those colors on Stationery, invitations, Programs, candy buffet, directional signs, cake, flowers, favors, napkins, table linens.... Even your shoes. Using white or ivory seems always so safe but when you see the photos you will be SO HAPPY you did! Nothing is more memorable than a first dance and garter toss with a bride in striking, amazing OFF THE HOOK shoes!

Thanks!

PJ Douglas Sands

A DESIGN FOR DESTINY

LUXURY EVENT DESIGNERS

& CELEBRITY WEDDING PLANNERS

www.design4destiny.com

Do I Need a Wedding Coordinator? My sister just got married so she's an expert!

2011-03-23T14:44:00.000-04:00

Do You Need a Coordinator?

We're not going to tell you the answer to that because we can't. Only you know if you need one or not. Will you be getting help from others around you, your mother, bridesmaids, fiancé, friends or will you have to do it all by yourself. Can you do it by yourself? Do you want to plan your wedding by yourself? Only you know. Keep in mind though - if your sister or your aunt or your cousin is the coordinator PLUS standing in the wedding as an attendant or bridesmaid, there's NO WAY she'll be able to keep it together. Consider yourself warned.

What Does a Coordinator Charge?

Wedding coordinators can charge 3 different ways and you will have to ask your's how they work out their prices:

by a percentage of the total cost of your wedding,
by the hour; or
a flat fee for each service you require.

What Can a Wedding Coordinator Do For Me?

The list is long but here are a few of the duties you can expect:

Help you to create the type of wedding you want. With that knowledge you'll be able to pick your venue, vendors, colour scheme, theme, music, etc.
Help you create a budget sheet and keep track of where your money is going and how much is still owing.
Help keep you on your budget and not go over...too much!!
Suggest vendors that fit your budget and ideas.
Make a wedding planning schedule so that you know what you've done and what still needs to be done.
In most cases a coordinator can save you money because of their connection in the industry.
Take care of any emergencies that arise.
Create a wedding day schedule.

How Do I Find a Good Wedding Coordinator?

As with all other wedding vendors, word of mouth is always good, bridal shows like the upcoming Buttons Bridal Show on Sunday, March 27, 2011 at Wyndham Nassau Resort in the Bahamas offers a great selection of planners and vendors. Plus ask other wedding vendors about coordinators that they've seen at other weddings who worked with them well.

I can't stress enough the importance of a planner coming highly recommended and certified by organizations like the Bahamas Bridal Association, Association of Bridal Consultants or Wedding Planners Institute of Canada. Without a valid business license, insurance, being a member of an accredited association plus years of experience, your planner isn't worth a grain a salt if something goes wrong. The new kid on the blog might read alot of bridal magazines but balancing your perfect day is a gamble.

Call first and see if you like them over the phone. If you don't then don't bother wasting time with the appointment. Then schedule a consultation to find out more about the services they offer, their creativity with the ideas they suggest and get pricing.

A professional wedding coordinator will have taken a wedding coordinator /consultant/planner course and have a certificate, diploma or international association membership to show for it.
Call the organization on the certificate to make sure that it exists because some people produce fake ones.
Is the coordinator organized?
Do you feel comfortable with them?
Are they friendly?
Do they know their stuff?
Does they have any references?
How long have they been in business?
Are they within your budget?
Are they computer literate?
Do they have another job or do they coordinate full time? It's helpful but not necessary for your coordinator to only work at planning weddings as some retail flowers, provide décor or even have another job, but it is better because they will have to contact your vendors during business hours. That can be a huge disaster.

If you like them and the answers you get, great...if not go elsewhere. Make appointments to meet at least 2 coordinators. Never choose the first vendor you meet, you need to compare. In comparing though, don't try to get each planner to put every detail together for you like menus, vendor quotes, decor schemes, etc. for free. That's not fair to them. If you want planning assistance or use alot of their time, compensate them for it by the hour should you choose someone else.

What Type of Packages Do Wedding Coordinators Have?

Consultation only: This is like a mini wedding planning course, best taken at the beginning of your planning. The coordinator won't be at your wedding but will teach you the skills to planning your own day. Some will charge by the hour, others by the meeting. You can book one meeting only or go back as many times as you like. Remember you are paying by the hour. You can get great ideas here and great vendor recommendations who match your style and budget.
Planning Preparation: Along with consultation they will save you time by listening to your needs and booking appointments for you with vendors, that meet those needs. They contact these vendors and describe what you want, what your budget is, if they're available on your date. This way the vendors already know about you when you walk in the door. They will help you put together a wedding binder, making it easier to keep track of things. They should provide you with a floor plan for the vendors to understand what your ceremony and reception will look like as well as a wedding weekend timeline or schedule for the rehearsal, rehearsal dinner, setup, ceremony, reception and clean up/ break down by vendors. If you don't get this, you are being jipped.
Full Wedding Day Package: A coordinator can be hired for the wedding day alone. She will direct the events of the day and make sure everyone around you is doing their job. Should any emergencies happen she will take care of them. Although a coordinator is hired for one day's work, in actual fact they have been working on your wedding, anywhere from 30-50 hours before the day actually get there, getting prepared. It takes most planners 7-21 days before your event to fully get a grasp of all the moving pieces. You should meet with the coordinator at least once if not twice to go over the details of your wedding. Any coordinator that says no meeting is needed isn't a professional.

What Questions Should I Ask When I Meet a Coordinator?

How long have you been a wedding coordinator?
What coordinating organizations do you belong to and do you have a diploma?
How do you charge? (percentage, flat fee, hourly)
How much will you charge us for the services we need?
How many times will we meet and how long will each meeting last?
Will you meet with our vendors in advance and look over their contracts to ensure we are on the same page?
Are you computer literate and do you own a computer?
Do you have a backup in case of emergency and can't make our wedding and who are they?
Will you be at our rehearsal and is there an extra charge for this?
How will you be dressed?
Can you help plan a wedding within our budget?
Are you a registered business?
Have you worked at our venue before?
Have you worked with our vendors before?
Will you contact our vendors before the wedding?
Is there an extra charge for phonecalls and e-mail correspondence between us?
Do you have a preferred vendors list?
If our officiant can't make it, will you direct our rehearsal?
Can you handle last minute changes and emergencies?
What is the deposit requirement?
If we cancel our contract, will we get all or any of our deposit back?
What time do you arrive on the wedding day and what time do you leave?
If we give you the payments for our other vendors, will you pay them?
Are you discreet or are you like Martin Short from the movie "Father of the Bride"?
Will you be taking photos or videos of me for your promotional purposes?
Are you on Skype, Twitter or Facebook?

Coordinator's Contract

If you are only going to see a consultant for planning lessons then you will probably just get a bill or invoice for the hours you spend. It is impossible to have all details on a coordinator's contract, for the simple fact that they are dealing will all aspects of your wedding day and have many duties. If your planner does not give you a contract to sign when you pay your commitment deposit, run in the other direction! That means they are not legally obligated to show up, keep their promises or legal responsible for repurcussions if something goes wrong with them or the vendors they recommend that you've paid. Disaster!

The contract should at least have the following:

How the coordinator charges (percentage, flat fee, hourly).
How many meetings will there be and if the consultant will visit vendors with you.
A service description.
The total cost of their services.
Your contact information.
Your wedding date.
Your's and their signature.
The amount deposited and still owing, and the due date for last payment or a detailed payment schedule for instalments.
Cancellation policy (if you cancel or change dates).
No show policy for the consultant.

Overall piece of mind is Priceless!

Wouldn't peace of mind be the best wedding gift you could receive the day of your wedding? How about a stress free, smooth flowing wedding day where you can enjoy the laughter and the love without worry.

Choosing a wedding coordinator or wedding planner will be the best gift you could give to you. Whether you are looking for a full wedding event planner or a coordinator for day-of services, your key to success without the stress is a wedding expert experienced in the life of a wedding.

All successful occasions are well planned. Your wedding coordinator can assist in organizing your wedding day by creating an itinerary that works specifically for you based on your dreams and visions of the beautiful day. Assistance in providing information on services and vendors is invaluable because your planner will know the intricate details of your vendor roster. Let a professional who has hours of experience with these people share thoughts, previous work relationships, professional secrets and pricing information so that your decisions are based on solid advice instead of hearsay.

What about the latest trends? Or, the old tried and true traditions or the very ethnic folkways that make weddings so personalized and special. Your planner is the perfect person to share suggestions and ideas. He or she will be objective and informed as to what is hot and what is not in your geographical area. We are all different and want our personalities to shine through the wedding day.

What could be more comforting than knowing that on the day of your wedding there is someone there to facilitate all of your plans, keep your vendors working as a team, making sure everyone is on time and preparing your dreams as you would have them? Your coordinator will be with you every step of the way to ensure your wedding day itinerary is followed and that your details are secure. Your happiness and fulfillment of your vision and dreams is their main focus.

With your "silent guest" working for you, you have no work or worries the day of the wedding. Your wedding might be the most complicated and costly social event of your life. Why not enjoy every special moment by laughing, eating, dancing and sharing the love with all your guests? That is the gift of the wedding Coordinator-Peace of Mind.

Thanks!

PJ Douglas Sands

A DESIGN FOR DESTINY

LUXURY EVENT DESIGNERS

& CELEBRITY WEDDING PLANNERS

www.design4destiny.com

All about the boxes for Invitations and More

2011-03-21T15:06:00.002-04:00

It's all about boxes! Introducing our new custom color kraft boxes for invitations and favors.

Dress your party, wedding or anniversary invitation or keepsake up with these kraft boxes in the same exact shade as your custom paper!

The invitation shown above is accented with a peacock feather and the box is in Lake to match the Lake ink. Stardream Punch shown here as a backing layer with Solar White top layer.

Mention this article and get up to 30% off your next order with A Design For Destiny Luxury Event Designers at www.design4destiny.com

We also carry favor boxes to match plus we design and print custom tags, labels and stickers to match any budget. Shown here we have some of our most popular shapes, colors and sizes in metallic and matte stocks.

Are you mailing a custom invitation but don't want to crush your bow? These light weight boxes are available with foldable closures compatible for shipping through your local post office. These ensemble was created for Valentine's Day and a black and white damask print border on a single layer invitation is accented with a think red silk ribbon. Labels were used for distribution which was much more affordable than Calligraphy.

Take a simple 1 or 2 layer invitation, add some silk petals and ribbon to a coordinating box- elegant! You can have these invites out in 2 to 3 weeks with A Design For Destiny vs some retailers with 8-12 week turnaround.

Always wished you could have a box invite? Well silk and faux silk boxes and folios are great. We at A Design For Destiny retail these from US $8-18 per silk box which is the most competitive pricing available online. We carry colored boxes in custom colors and add similar pockets, ribbon bands and rhinestone embellishments for a fraction of the cost of a silk or faux silk folio or box. It has the same WOW factor!

Thanks!

PJ Douglas Sands

A DESIGN FOR DESTINY

LUXURY EVENT DESIGNERS

& CELEBRITY WEDDING PLANNERS

www.design4destiny.com

Our Bahamas Custom Design Studio is Now Open!

2011-02-18T23:10:00.001-05:00

2011 has been filled with changes for A Design For Destiny.

We have a new logo.
Our Palmdale Boutique in Nassau, Bahamas closed on January 15, 2011 to make room for our Showroom expansion coming in Summer 2011.
We expanded our Bahamas Custom Design Studio offering a more intimate shopping experience. You can find us in Columbus House on the 2nd Floor and the Corner of East and Shirley Streets, Downtown Nassau. We have reserved parking in the City Centre opposite Generali Insurance and First Caribbean Bank on Shirley Street so book an appointment with us and we will email you a parking pass.
Our extensive Photo Gallery which serves as a Portfolio of our work over the last 11 years is online. Take some time and view our celebrity clients, breath-taking décor, fabulous events, sensational destination weddings and favorite events ever.
We have upgraded our website at www.design4destiny.com. We now have an iPhone/iPad/non Flash site which is fully compatible with mobile phones. We also have a Flash website that can be browsed for Flash enabled browsers.
Our CEO PJ Douglas Sands was elected Vice President of the Bahamas Bridal Association. Congrats to her. She is in charge of Public Relations for the organization as well as Social Media.
Our Texas and Florida Customer Service Centers are fully operational and equipped to handle orders for US and Canada customers. Place your order or request a quote by calling 877-883-3784 or 877-88DESTINY.

More to come in 2011!

Thanks!

Phyllicia Williams

A DESIGN FOR DESTINY

LUXURY EVENT DESIGNERS

& CELEBRITY WEDDING PLANNERS

www.design4destiny.com

2011's New Color Palettes & Patterns Featuring Eco-Friendly "Green" Card Stocks from Marsupial Papers

2011-01-17T12:08:00.001-05:00

It's 2011 and it's all about the new colors and patterns in metallic and matte papers from A Design For Destiny Weddings and Events - your luxury event designers at www.design4destiny.com.

Here are the new patterns just launched from our Marsupial Papers line which features soft patterns which can be printed on or used for backing layers, top layers, pouches, pockets and envelopes.

Here are new colors of metallics and mattes available in paper, card stock, envelopes, pockets and pouches including additional "green" eco-friendly papers.

Here's an invitation printed on Driftwood Alabaster with a Mahogany envelope and Chocolate ink. The round edges make this simple 1-layer classy and elegant.

Here's a pouch slide invitation in Damask Raingrass with an ecru card and envelope.

Here's an Eco-friendly "green" invitation featuring Dune envelope and back layer. Our Eco-friendly paper line consists of tree-free, FSC certified, non-chlorine bleached papers processed with alternative energy sources.

Hats off to Marsupial Papers for these delicious colors for 2011. Remember to get the best pricing, service and quality from a certified Marsupial Papers dealer near you or online like A Design For Destiny! Follow Marsupial on Twitter or become a fan on Facebook!

Thanks!

PJ Douglas Sands

A DESIGN FOR DESTINY

LUXURY EVENT DESIGNERS

& CELEBRITY WEDDING PLANNERS

www.design4destiny.com

Exciting new ribbon colors and digital cards from Birchcraft Studios

2011-01-14T14:15:00.001-05:00

If you've never seen our Birchcraft Studios line you don't know what you've been missing.

Birchcraft offers affordable traditional and contemporary styles in thermography printing. In 2011 they have increased their satin ribbon color palette for their popular invitation styles with Purple, Eggplant, Sage Green, Rose Pink and Sapphire Blue.

Several things we have always loved about one of our most economical stationery lines Birchcraft is their quick turnaround with less than 3 business days for proof and production, quality papers, affordable pricing and their adhesive pre-tied bow collection to make self assembly a breeze! Look at these fabulous new satin bow colors in silver, gold, burgundy, hot pink, purple and claret eliminating tying and gluing.

At Birchcraft there are also 11 new napkin colors bringing a total of 30 colors available in beverage and luncheon size complete with 18 foil colors and 74 designs for imprinting.

Looking for full color digital cards for your party, save the date or corporate promotions? We've got amazing pricing and fabulous quality!

Looking for something affordable to your family, friends or customers? How about a promotional calendar card? This save the date or keepsake is perfect for everyone to keep on their desk for the entire year and keep you first and foremost in their minds by seeing your calendar every day.

Thanks!

PJ Douglas Sands

A DESIGN FOR DESTINY

LUXURY EVENT DESIGNERS

& CELEBRITY WEDDING PLANNERS

www.design4destiny.com

Win a Wedding Full of Free Favors - Giveaway from Kate Aspen

2010-09-14T16:01:00.001-04:00

One of our favorite product lines Kate Aspen will be drawing again on the 30th of this month – so follow the link, sign up, and see if you’ll be the next lucky bride-to-be to win a Wedding Full of Favors! Absolutely no obligation – you pick the favors, and we'll ship them right to your door. Just their little way of adding that exquisitely memorable “Thank You” touch for your wedding, party or shower guests.

Offer valid for brides-to-be with continental US and Canada addresses only, so make sure that's what you use to enter! You aren’t the bride-to-be? Then please do share this link with one!

We love being one of the few exclusive US and international recognized retailers of Kate Aspen wedding, special occasion and baby favors and gifts. Check out their complete line of great, unique and affordable favors here.

Also here's a sneak peak at Kate Aspen's Inspiration Boards. Bring invitations, favors, accessories, décor, florals and table settings together under your theme.

You can check out more ideas at our website www.design4destiny.com, follow us on Twitter, or become a Facebook fan.

For more information on ANYTHING SHOWN HERE or our Event Planning, Décor, Florals, Rentals or price quotes for printed and assembled ensembles or to order blank boxes or paper stock for your upcoming shower, wedding, party, anniversary or DIY project, contact A Design For Destiny at (877) 883-3784 or (281) 738-5033 in the US and Canada or (242) 676-6732 in the Caribbean. Reach out to us today! We have Dedicated Event Specialists in Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Atlanta, Fort Lauderdale, The Bahamas and Jamaica planning events WORLDWIDE!

Thanks!

PJ Douglas Sands

A DESIGN FOR DESTINY

LUXURY EVENT DESIGNERS

& CELEBRITY WEDDING PLANNERS

www.design4destiny.com

Personalize It - Photo Backdrops, Table & Aisle Runners & More

2010-08-29T09:37:00.000-04:00

Often clients come to me looking for a way to integrate a monogram used in the invitation throughout the event. I always suggest using it on the cake, topper and other stationery like programs, menu cards, table numbers and thank you notes. In weddings brides are even embroidering monograms and family crests on the trains of their wedding gowns.

More and more though people struggle to implement it so instead of a starfish theme for beach weddings or a snowflake theme for winter weddings the theme is 'Monogram'. The benefits: a) custom monograms are unique; b) design fees applied to monograms get more bang for the buck as they are used throughout the event as a motif; c) colors of the event are clearly illustrated in the monogram making the colors pop on everything.

Here are some creative ways to showcase your event monogram.

1) Photo Booth Backdrop - Get the WOW factor every bride dreams of by decorating your reception with our Embracing Hearts Photo Booth Backdrop. Said to be one of the fastest growing trends for weddings today, reception photo booths are an entertaining and memorable way to interact with your guests, while having a ball! After pairing your photo booth with this crisp white, poly canvas sheet, you'll easily see how this trend became so popular!

2) Monogram Table Runner - With its polished look, personalization and vibrantly colored accents, this reception decoration is easily completed by the color of your choice and overall styling... giving every newlywed couple a creative pop of personalized fun to their wedding day setting.

Don't let the fun end there! Take this one of a kind keepsake home and use it for all your anniversary parties and special occasions to follow!

3) Personalized Aisle Runners - Make your grand entrance even more noteworthy on your big day when you walk down the aisle. Budget styles are available starting near $99 in crisp white, non-woven rayon measuring 100 feet. if you are looking for hand-painted options on colored runners, these are also eye-catching and cost a little bit more depending on the customization options you are looking for. Here's an article where we featured our hand painted monogram runners for aisles and tables and a Twitter Find - one of our preferred vendors Customized Wedding Creations.

4) Personalized Boxes & Tags - I am also a huge fan of placing monograms on favor boxes, tins and containers. That way when people eat the candy, they tend to take the container home to keep as a memento of your fabulous party. At the very least you should always and a tag or label to say "thank you" for coming. Nobody keeps a favor without a label, and it always breaks my heart to walk around after a party where a client spent lots of money on blank favors to find the empty organza bags, bottles or bags sitting around on the table headed for the trash. Surprisingly, personalized bags and boxes usually cost only a fraction more than plain favors.

5) Personalized Unique Favors - You can't go wrong with personalized favors. Items that women always keep in their purses or men always look for in their glove compartment are the practical favors that never get left on the table after an event. Pocket and travel size lip balms, notepads with pens, chocolate bars, water bottles, playing cards, sewing kits, mint boxes for Altoids or gum, commemorative wine and shot glasses, candles or even coffee, tea bags or cocktail mixes. These are the latest rage which not only reflect the host's personality and likes but bring out colors and themes. Incorporate the monogram too.

5) Monogram unity and family candles - I love this idea. When I see a unity sand ceremony or a unity candle ceremony I enjoy seeing the members of the family participate. Nothing makes photos pop like touch of color. They are also beautiful keepsakes for your china cabinet or living room shelves for years to come.

Dance Floor Decals - Another Special Touch

2010-08-28T13:00:00.001-04:00

Clients are always asking me for unique ways to personalize their event - whether it's a wedding, party or corporate event. As always, I do my research among the top manufacturers in the Special Event Business.

This time around I found some great decals for dance floors, windows and even to add to economical aisle runners for that personalized touch.

From Cathy's Concepts - there is a finished dance floor decal with removable, low stick materials. This vinyl decal includes a detailed instruction sheet for easy application and removal from nonporous surfaces.

Available in two diameter sizes: Standard (39") and Large (50"). It comes in 10 fully customizable background colors including cloud, aqua, sage, wisteria, petal pink, claret, raspberry, chocolate, grey or black. It is also available with first names and the date.

I like that there is only a 3 week production time on this item and it's quite affordable with the 39" standard size retailing at $95 and 50" large size retailing at $120.

Another item I like - Vinyl Wedding Art from The Occasions Group.

These Wedding and Wall Art pieces measure 12", 18" or 24" high and are rub--on vinyl words and designs that adhere to any flat surface like doors, windows, mirrors, walls, aisle runners, car windows, even dance floors! They apply easily, peel off easily and won't damage paint or other surfaces.

They range in price from $38 to $95 and are available with the flourish and monogram (as shown here), thanks for celebrating this special day design, or names with hearts design. Customizable in 12 colors, these can add a wonderful touch to your special day. 2 week production time is fabulous as well.

Aqua & Chocolate - So Elegant

2010-07-24T15:17:00.000-04:00

Call it Tiffany Blue or Aqua or Teal. Whatever it is, it's my favorite color! I just love decorating with it, designing invitations with it or whatever. Take a look at what we've done with this colorful combination.

Want to have your party or ceremony and reception in front of a beautiful piece but you're cramped for space? Solution: invite less guests. It's cheaper to feed less people and elegantly placing the ceremony and reception around this waterfall in the middle of a hotel foyer became much easier. We also mixed chocolate white and aqua as making the entire venue dark chocolate would have taken away from the clean, contemporary look of the lobby.

Want to spice up your table for an outdoor party? What about lanterns? Some Christmas twinkle lights draped with tulle fabric then add paper lanterns can light up any outdoor or tented area.

I am definitely a believer in "less is more" when it comes to budget so paper lanterns with LED lights hanging in them or even waterproof LED lights in your vases can be economical when it comes for pops of color and lighting needs.

I think I can became an event planner because I just love a celebration. With a party comes lots of gifts for everybody. If you want to go overboard on anything, make it the favors. Guests will always remember the time they spent with you on your special occasion when they look at the keepsake.

If you feel colorful candy is a must, put in a durable container or favor box. That way when they eat the candy, they can put the box back together and put in on a shelf or desk at work by changing the contents.

If you don't want to rent extravagant vases or pay for huge floral centerpieces, favors on the table add elements of your personality plus that pop of color to really convey your theme. Put the color everywhere the eye can see with napkins, candies, boxes, table numbers, matches or even simply using ribbon to accent everything on the table.

Last but not least - you can't have a party in my favorite color without the signature drink. The signature drink is the first thing that greets your guest and the first thing she'll be talking about when she leaves. Check out our blog for some great recipes.

Set the tone for hospitality with a signature welcome drink because it should be ready as soon as he or she arrives and available in alcoholic and non alcoholic versions so no one feels left out.

Get the party started with a signature drink in the pop of color. Prepare a nice tray for self-service to be poured into fabulous glasses from a pitcher or have the pre-mixed concoction pre-poured in glasses on a sleek nearly spill proof tray. Cheers!

Featured Photographer - Photos by Gabri - Classic Elegance

2010-05-25T19:54:00.008-04:00

Today I took a peak at some wonderful photos from photographer Gabri Ripple Means of Photos by Gabri. I was simply blown away! These photos of Brenham, Texas couple Bradley and Charity Shiflett rank among some of the most beautiful wedding photos I have seen in the 12 years I have been a Celebrity Event Planner.

Her interpretation of Bradley and Charity's classic elegance was amazing and sepia being one of my favorites, I was captivated as Gabri captured the bride's beauty, the details of the wedding gown and even the sunset glowed. I felt like I was sitting there in person watching the session.

Gabri Means is a professional photographer based in Cypress, TX who has clients in Houston, Brenham and everywhere in between. Her versatility and creativity speaks for itself. She is a member of the Texas Professional Photographers Association, and her technique is strong, organic and comes across very strong.

You can find Gabri Means and Photos By Gabri through her website at www.photosbygabri.com or on Facebook. If you are looking for magic, simplicity, elegance, creativity and trying to capture the moment so time stands still - look no further. Her photojournalistic flair as seen in her Portfolio of children, family, wedding and event photos captures every piece of the puzzle.

Twitter Find - Customized Wedding Creations

2009-08-19T21:11:00.011-04:00

When a client needs a customized aisle runner or table runner the first person we call, tweet or email is Cherin at Customized Wedding Creations.

Now - you can follow Cherin on Twitter at @CustomizedWed. Here is a runner done by CWC for our clients Anita and Basilio Christie for their Nassau, Bahamas nuptials.

Customized Wedding Creations creates custom, hand-painted aisle runners, table runners banners and parasols. They also have reduced their standard turn-around from 3 months to 2 months for a limited time cutting down on rush fees. Other companies offer hand painted runners for $500-750 and up. CWC can produce the same runner for nearly 1/2 the price, depending on the length.

Here is a runner featured recently on their blog. This runner is done on non-woven fabric available only in white vs. polyester which is thicker and available in over 65 colors. non-woven runners can be more affordable as they can still be customized with logos, sayings or monograms as well as satin ribbon borders.

You can check out Customized Wedding Creations on Facebook or follow them on Twitter.

For more information on ANYTHING SHOWN HERE or our Event Planning, Décor, Florals, Rentals or price quotes for printed and assembled ensembles or to order blank boxes or paper stock for your upcoming shower, wedding, party, anniversary or DIY project, contact A Design For Destiny at (877) 883-3784 or (281) 738-5033 in the US and Canada or (242) 676-6732 in the Caribbean. Reach out to us today! We have Dedicated Event Specialists in Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Atlanta, Fort Lauderdale, The Bahamas and Jamaica planning events WORLDWIDE!

Thanks!

PJ Douglas Sands

A DESIGN FOR DESTINY

LUXURY EVENT DESIGNERS

& CELEBRITY WEDDING PLANNERS

www.design4destiny.com

My Twitter Finds - Let's Tweet!

2009-08-12T18:56:00.003-04:00

I am 70% sure that you have a Twitter account. If not, then you are missing a world of information. Some feel it's just another media outlet for celebrities (and wanna-be's) to reveal yet another non-interesting tidbit about themselves to the world. Social Media is even a recognized field where there are specialists who consult on websites, Internet marketing plus give seminars on Face Book, My Space, blogging and Twitter for your business.

If you've got My Space - that's for sharing music, photos, videos, blogs and meeting people. If you're into Face book (which I love) - that's for sharing photos and messages with your friends. If you've got LinkedIn - that's great for business networking, checking references of possible clients and vendors and touching base with former colleagues. If you've got Hi5 - then you're so 1980. If you are tweeting - you have the news, gossip, a broad network filled with a cross-section of people and businesses plus great resources at your finger tips.

So what is it? Twitter is a micro-blogging tool facilitating communication with your readers (or followers) with 140 characters or less. You can sign up for a free account and then start following people who share similar interests.

Tweeting can be a wonderful way to

1. Find interesting tidbits like articles, websites and products and share those you've found with others.

2. Stay in contact with friends, business associates and family.

3. Explore great buys and bargains.

4. Keep up to date with the latest trends and what every one's "tweeting" about.

Twitter-ing is the latest craze with TV shows, news channels, Oprah and everyday people with information to share just signing up everyday. Here's how you start.

a) Sign up or click on some one's Twitter link that you've seen on a website like ours - www.twitter.com/design4destiny. You don't have to fill out some long bio about yourself, just list a few key words about yourself.

b) If you like what you see and want to keep updated with something on my page you would click "follow" to receive updates every time I tweet about something.

c) You have 140 characters or less to describe what you are doing now or something you want to share.

d) Then people can decide if they want to follow you based on what you've shared about yourself and your interests. It's that simple.

e) Want to send someone a private message? You can with the direct message window.

f) Want to send a public message to 1 person in particular? For example, if you tweet @design4destiny, I'll be able to view your message along with all the updates of the people I am following.

Simple - that's it. Sorry for all the Twitter lingo but that's just how it goes!

So... why would a destination event planner and special occasion retailer direct you to Twitter-verse? Because I have found so many great people and resources in the few short months that I have been on it. Personally, I love to keep up with the news headlines at CNN or BBC without having to watch TV or go to their websites. Professionally, I have found some great party favors, creative companies and unique ideas that I continuously share with my clients. I keep an eye on my feed and updates from those I follow on a regular basis. I have also been able to direct my brides and event clients to local resources in their area through Twitter.

So since I blog, I wanted to share these finds with you from time to time. Can't wait to share!

PJ Douglas Sands is the owner of A Design For Destiny Weddings and Events which specializes in all things special occasion - custom invitations, programs, accessories, favors and gifts as well as custom aisle runners, parasols and table runners. She is a Celebrity Event Producer with stores and offices in the US, United Kingdom, the Bahamas and Jamaica and plans events worldwide. She is the former Manager of Special Events, Celebrity Weddings and Entertainment at The Atlantis Resort and One & Only Ocean Club, Paradise Island, Bahamas.

For more information on ANYTHING SHOWN HERE or our Event Planning, Décor, Florals, Rentals or price quotes for printed and assembled ensembles or to order blank boxes or paper stock for your upcoming shower, wedding, party, anniversary or DIY project, contact A Design For Destiny at (877) 883-3784 or (281) 738-5033 in the US and Canada or (242) 676-6732 in the Caribbean. Reach out to us today! We have Dedicated Event Specialists in Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Atlanta, Fort Lauderdale, The Bahamas and Jamaica planning events WORLDWIDE!

Thanks!

Phyllicia Williams

A DESIGN FOR DESTINY

LUXURY EVENT DESIGNERS

& CELEBRITY WEDDING PLANNERS

www.design4destiny.com