Lilybrooke Events

First Ladies Fashion

2013-01-21T08:00:00.000-05:00

As we get ready to celebrate the Inauguration of the 44th President's second term, MSN interviewed me regarding Barbara Bush's style. While a lengthy interview is generally shortened to a few sentences, as it was here, it was a pleasure to provide insight on a woman that I was lucky enough to know.

I'll leave you with one story on Mrs. Bush's signature hair that did not make the story: Often Mrs. Bush would get a second glance when she was in public (mostly when she was not wearing her pearls). Strangers would approach her and ask "aren't you Barbara Bush?" Mrs. Bush would simply smile and reply "oh no, she's much thinner than I am!"

Congratulations Michelle Obama. It's fun to watch your style impact.

Real Maine Weddings "Summer"

2013-01-09T10:30:00.000-05:00

When Real Maine Weddings asked me to submit a wedding for their feature "Summer" wedding, I knew exactly the wedding to highlight. This August wedding began with a ceremony at St. Ann's in Kennebunkport, followed by a cocktail hour at the family's summer home in their beautiful gardens. Guests were seated in a stunning Sperry tent that was 14feet off the ground, giving sweeping ocean views during the sunset.

For dinner, The White Apron served a Maine-style Cioppino that included Diver Scallops, Shrimp and Lobster Tail tossed with House-Made Cavatelli, Smoked Tomato and Olive Chutney, Red Pepper Rouille and Arugula. Not your typical wedding dinner.

After the Sultans of Swing had guests dancing into the night, an after party at the River Club Casino was had, complete with comfort late night foods.

Lilybrooke Quoted on The Bridal Emergency Kit

2012-09-07T22:47:00.000-04:00

Lilybrooke Quoted on Reception Games

2012-05-30T11:08:00.001-04:00

Lilybrooke Quoted on Dinner Service

2012-03-13T21:55:00.000-04:00

Lilybrooke in Maine Magazine

2012-02-06T14:43:00.000-05:00

When Maine Magazine asked if Lilybrooke would be part of their upcoming Wedding issue for 2012, we couldn't have been more thrilled. Quickly looking over all of the great vendors we've used over the years, we opted to stick 100% with Maine vendors in spirit of the magazine. There are so many talented people in New England, so this was no easy task.

Ultimately, the issue was a collaboration at the Kenneth Roberts Estate including the work of Lilybrooke Events; amazing desserts by Chase Hill Bakery; stunning flowers designed by Fleurant; bridal hair and make up at Clippers Salon; hot dog cart by Village Dog; Stacey Kane Photography; transportation provided by HydiDrive; bride and groom's attire by J.McLaughlin and rental items from Marshall Rentals.

We loved doing the shoot and being included in this great issue alongside so many other talented vendors. Congratulations to everyone involved.

SuperBowl XL

2012-01-30T22:19:00.000-05:00

As I get ready for another SuperBowl Sunday, I am reminded of my amazing experience working as a Super Captain for SuperBowl XL in Detroit in 2005. Being in charge of a group of volunteers who were overseeing Corporate Hospitality within the stadium, I worked closely for months with the NFL, the city of Detroit and their event planners.

As with all other major sporting events, weddings, parties, and everyday get-togethers, it takes an amazing number of people to make things happen smoothly. And someone to oversee it all.

One of my favorite memories was walking the halls of the stadium and watching the workers all glued to the television. With major sporting events a common ground is found and for moments, with those rooting for the same team, everyone is a friend.

The SuperBowl is a wonderful event that unifies the nation. I love the planning, the competition, the advertising, the marketing and of course the comfort foods. Go Patriots!

Kenneth Roberts Estate

2012-01-11T10:55:00.000-05:00

I had the great fortune to live at the Kenneth Robert's Estate this summer and help develop a plan for using the estate for weddings and other celebrations. The Estate has endless possibilities at this historic and magical location which sits just one mile inland from the ocean upon 23 acres. From this unique property you can hear both the waves of the ocean and the sounds of Dock Square. It's a perfect spot for an intimate wedding or strolling cocktail party celebration.

The Estate will be featured in the upcoming Maine Magazine Wedding edition. Below are a few quick shots of us getting ready for the shoot (more to come once the magazine hits the stands). I had so much fun working with Stacey Kane, the Chase Hill Bakery and our bride and groom who don't event hint at how frozen they were on a cold November day.

There are so many patios, fields and creative spaces. It truly is a hidden treasure in Kennebunkport's backyard. Contact me if you are interested in hosting an event at the KRE. We'd love to introduce you to this space.

A New Year's Engagement and The Event that followed

2012-01-04T13:16:00.000-05:00

Rick and Jon were engaged on New Year's Eve 2010 while dining at The White Barn Inn. I can't think of a better way to begin the new year AND the planning for their fall wedding. "The Event" as it was appropriately titled included a clear top tent with glass walls and stunning views of the Ocean as the tent floated along the edge of the Kennebunk River.

Clean lines were the backdrop to all of the navy, white, and silver candle-lit decor. The White Barn Inn catered an amazing, custom six course dinner that included wine pairings with each course.

After a teary toast where one groom proclaimed "you light up my life", fireworks erupted in up the sky and dancing began. Following the reception, the after-party including DJ Jon, a laser light show and wonderful comfort foods were served as guests celebrated late into the night.

Congratulations Rick & Jon. Here's to many New Year's and other Events!

Wedding Coordinator: Brooke Sheldon, Lilybrooke Events

Venue: The Breakwater Inn, Kennebunkport

Catering: The White Barn Inn, Kennebunk Beach

Florist: Flora Fauna, North Yarmouth

Music: DJ Jon, Portland

Transportation: InTown Trolley, Kennebunkport; HydiDrive, Kennebunkport

Rentals: Be Our Guest, Boston; Party By Design, Boston; Luxe Rentals, NYC

Invitations and Menus: Mia Carta, Boston

Fireworks: Maine Pyrotechnics

Lilybrooke Quoted

2011-12-07T07:34:00.001-05:00

HOME

DECOR

ATTIRE

TRENDS

PERFECT PARTY

RECEPTION SITES

PREFERRED VENDORS

INSPIRATION

This little bag is a likely life-saver for your on your wedding day.

Photo by CTW Features

In the Bag

« WE - Inspiration

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By Anna Sachse
CTW Features

Two pro planners weigh in on all the required essentials for your Big Day “emergency” bag.

1. LIP GLOSS
It will keep your makeup looking fresh, from I Do's to photos and beyond, says Wendi Hroncich, founder of a Seattle-based event company. “But avoid the sticky kind – it will drive you nuts and your groom will hate it too!”

2. BREATH MINTS
They're ideal for right before you walk down the aisle. But if you want fresh breath that's longer lasting, pack a travel-size bottle of mouth wash, notes Hroncich.

3. BOBBY PINS
Get blonde-colored ones if you're blonde, brown ones if you're a brunette, and so on, says Brooke Sheldon, owner of an event company in Maine.

4. STAIN REMOVER
Hroncich loves Shout Wipes or the Tide Pen. “They both work great without leaving bleach marks or a circle on delicate fabrics.”

5. A BAND AID OR MOLESKIN
These quick-fixes can save the day if your shoes are uncomfortable, or prevent questionable footwear from becoming painful in the first place, Sheldon says.

6. SAFTEY PINS
“They can be used for almost anything in a pinch,” says Hroncich. “Get a variety pack of sizes.”

7. SCISSORS
Whether it's taking the tag off a garter or snipping stray strings on clothing, Hroncich always finds that scissors come in handy.

8. POCKET TISSUES
Use them to blot everything from tears to makeup. Hroncich likes the wedding-themed variety.

9. A PROTEIN-PACKED ENERGY BAR
“Chocolate is notorious for getting on everything, so steer clear of it,” says Hroncich

10. A HELPER
“Of course, every bride should have a wedding planner so they don't have to carry a thing!” says Sheldon. Can't afford one? Ask someone responsible (ideally not your mother or maid of honor) to ensure your essentials safely make it from ceremony to reception.
© CTW Features

« WE - Inspiration

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Lilybrooke Quoted

2011-06-16T18:56:00.000-04:00

Stylist, and former Lilybrooke bride, Julie Rath

2011-03-23T10:22:00.000-04:00

Amazing NYC men's stylist, and former Lilybrooke bride, Julie Rath has taken on the task of dressing the groom.

http://thegroomsays.blogspot.com/2011/03/solid-to-subliminal-julie-raths-word-on.html

Lilybrooke on "The Redesigned Rehearsal"

2011-01-24T15:48:00.000-05:00

Posted on Thu, Jan. 13, 2011

The redesigned rehearsal
Anna Sachse
CTW Features

Historically, rehearsal dinners have been an intimate restaurant affair for immediate family, wedding party members and their significant others, and the parents of any child attendants. However, in recent years, there has been a shift toward opening up these traditional celebrations to more guests, as well as branching out from the standard sit-down meal.
Here, two wedding planning experts weigh in on the why and how of a more inclusive and creative pre-big day party.
The Perks
Weddings generally bring together many people from many different backgrounds, notes Brooke Sheldon, owner of Lilybrooke Events in Kennebunkport, Maine. “Having everyone get together at the rehearsal dinner serves as an ice-breaker – by the time the reception rolls around, everyone is already old friends.”
It’s also a great way to ensure you – the bride! – actually get to spend quality time with all your nearest and dearest. “The wedding day goes by so fast, and the couple may feel pulled in many different directions,” says Wendi Hroncich, founder of Seattle-based Ethereal Events. Hosting a more inclusive rehearsal dinner decreases the big day pressure on the bride and groom, and allows for more relaxed hanging out.
The Guest List
If you have the inclination and the budget, go ahead and include everyone in your rehearsal festivities. But if you must draw the line somewhere, just make sure your invite list is consistent.
For example, due to the time and expense involved in traveling, destination-wedding rehearsal dinners have typically involved all the guests, says Sheldon. Playing off that trend, many stateside wedding couples are now opting to include all out-of-town guests in the day-before bash. Others might prefer to host all their extended family members.
The Party
If the guest list is small or money is little or no object, the rehearsal dinner is a lovely way to add a playful or unconventional element to your gala. Hroncich has had couples treat guests to the famed interactive dinner show Teatro ZinZanni, or spring for dinner cruises that show off the city skyline. Sheldon coordinated a fireworks-filled July Fourth lobster bake on a river. The couple had a private, tented section of lawn for several hundred guests, but selected a space next to a public pops concert for free entertainment. Other creative options include a catered affair at a cool space like an aquarium or racetrack, or picking a unique theme like Old Hollywood or a luau.
That said, by no means is it necessary to spend a fortune to have a fabulous fête. Your real focus should be having a rehearsal dinner that feels like it represents who you are as a couple, and fits in with the rest of your wedding weekend events, says Hroncich. A backyard BBQs, a picnic in the park, a pizza party on the patio or a taco truck and s’mores on the beach are all great bets.
“If you have a fun location, then be casual with the meal,” says Sheldon. “The enjoyment is really about the atmosphere you create.”

Lilybrooke quoted in CNBC"s Confessions of a Personal Assistant

2010-11-30T10:19:00.000-05:00

I loved being a Personal Assistant to Barbara Bush and am always happy to give my side of the story about working for a "celebrity". The Bushes are amazing people and I was thrilled to be part of their lives. They are real, kind and genuine to every person they meet.

Welcome, Guest

Confessions of a Personal Assistant

Published: Tuesday, 30 Nov 2010 | 2:54 PM ET

Text Size

By: Colleen Kane
CNBC Writer

Peter Dazeley | Photographer's Choice | Getty Images

The modern personal assistant plays a role similar to that which used to be called a personal secretary, but at any moment a personal assistant might also be called upon for services otherwise performed by a butler, concierge, babysitter, personal shopper, messenger, pet sitter, mother, lover, or therapist.

Once found mainly among the rich and famous, the personal assistant has more recently entered the greater public consciousness thanks to Hollywood reality shows like Kathy Griffin’s ‘My Life on the D List,’ or “reality” shows like ‘Entourage,’ not to mention “fictional” exposes like ‘The Devil Wears Prada.’ They’re no longer just found next to bigwigs or in la-la wood trailing behind actor-director-agent types. Thanks to virtual personal assistant services, anyone with the cash to spare can outsource a task like making appointments (or even online dating) on a one-time or regular basis.

But those virtual assistant gigs don’t yield the stories that arise when PA s put in long hours in close quarters at the beck and call of big personalities. Just as common now as the personal assistant, it seems, are the PAs' horror stories. Although some personal assistants are sworn to secrecy—most assistants to high profile celebrities sign non-disclosure agreements, says Drei Donnelly, President of the Association of Celebrity Personal Assistants—other PAs past and present were willing to share anec-donts from the trenches.

Mission: Improbable

For personal assistants, unusual tasks are business as usual. One assistant recalls having to keep a special healing mushroom alive by soaking it in goat’s milk as it grew to new and alarming sizes, and later reserving that mushroomy goat milk for her boss to drink (she never did drink it). Lynn Sudlow of Complete Errand buried a hamster that died while its owners were on vacation in Europe, but after hearing back from them about the dead pet, she had to exhume the hamster and stow it in the freezer (where it remains to this day).

When Missy Brown was hired to work for an Israeli artist, she expected her tasks to consist of managing the studio, meeting with buyers, and working with museums, but the job also entailed accompanying her boss on shopping trips and bringing back to the loft office her hauls of $700 boots and custom-made Chanel dresses. When still new on the job, Missy took a weekend trip with her new boyfriend, which her boss knew about. “She called me constantly. She’d call me and say, ‘Missy. Where’s my address book.’ ‘Missy. Where’s this CD?’ She needed to feel important at the expense of my vacation, [but] I was too naive to know any better.”

Four years later, Missy did know better. Her boss screamed at her regularly. “A couple of times I’d say, ‘I can’t take this anymore, then she’d sweet talk me, offer me more money. It was like an abusive relationship. She called me her brain—it would put her in a very bad position to be without me.” This abusive relationship is a comparison commonly evoked among disgruntled former PAs.

Now, the fate of a dying kumquat tree in the artist’s loft—and on an apparently related note, the well-being of the boss—was Missy’s responsibility. She kept prioritizing her boss’ business needs over the tree, until she got called in for a kumquat-inspired scolding: “It’s this bad energy, this tree is like a dying animal, and you need to call a nursery, I want somebody to bring the tree back to life.” When resurrection proved impossible, Missy hid the tree, ending that particular chapter in a troubled work relationship.

Just Do It

Leon Renyop, an assistant to a film and TV director, recalls being saddled with finding an ethnic baby to be photographed for a greeting card of questionable taste. He couldn’t very well tell the infant casting agencies that the baby was needed for a goof, so he fabricated the alter ego “Geoffrey Bozenkampf” complete with accent and Gmail account, and acting as Geoffrey he claimed he needed the baby’s image to use in a short film. Then, because his director boss is “obnoxiously frugal,” Leon had to find a way to print up 150 of these holiday cards for about $80 (Kinko’s quoted about $250 for the job). “Find a way, there’s gotta be a way,” came the director’s typical refusal to take no for an answer. Leon faked a fall and injury at Kinko’s for an instant 60% discount, and in this case, for the win.

Another time, the director called Leon around 9:30 on a Saturday, requiring 200 tennis balls before noon, so he could teach his girlfriend tennis—and he needed to get the balls for a cost of about $10. “There’s gotta be a way.” Leon ran around town, finding those ways, not all of them necessarily legal. “I hopped the fence at a country club with a basket I picked up at the grocery store and picked up like 30 orphan balls, I got chased by the tennis coach. Then I called a buddy who was a member at a country club, who knew a crooked groundskeeper, who sells balls he steals from the country club. I drove like 30 minutes and did this sketchy tennis ball transaction in his alley like I was buying a pound of cocaine and I had to haggle him down.” It took until about 12:15, but Leon once again made it happen.

Katie Harvey worked for a brother and sister team who regularly fought over who got to use her. In addition to being verbally abusive (“a monkey could do this!” was among the phrases screamed at Katie), the sister boss also asked the impossible. She called Katie in to her office holding a folder and demanded that the assistant find the paper that went with the folder.

“What does it say?”

“New York State.”

Katie balked. Okay…A New York state document. Their office was located in New York state, so there was bound to be a lot of documents containing that phrase.

‘Do you think I have time to describe every f-ing detail? Just find it.”

“Is it a bill?”

“Just find it.”

There were 30 file drawers and Katie was going to have to look through every paper in every drawer. She started at the most likely drawer that had a lot of official documents with the state seal.

“Not that goddamn drawer. Don’t you think I looked in that one?”

So Katie went through every single piece of paper in every other file until the boss took lunch, when she I went over to the first file drawer and found it. This triumph elicited no thank you from the boss lady, mind you, just: “That was a big f-ing waste of my time.”

RubberBall Productions | Getty Images

This Time, it’s Really Personal

One assistant worked for an award-winning cinematographer and his family for several years. “I had developed a very tight bond with them and we considered each other family. The couple asked if I would film the birth of their child. They said I was the only person they trusted enough to handle this task. While I was terrified at the thought of filming such a personal and unfamiliar event, I was honored to have been asked. It was requested that I watch several hours of birthing videos so I would know what to expect during the birth. Each day, I watched hour-long videos of women going through labor and the delivery of their babies. Video after video, I watched as these women were screaming and cursing and looking as if they were being tortured. What had I gotten myself into?”

”Inside the delivery room, I was introduced to the doctor and knew that I was going to have to be very creative to get the perfect shot and capture the whole event. I found the perfect place to stand, the overhead light was in the perfect spot. Just as things were getting good and the baby was crowning, the doctor moved to a different position, moving the overhead light with him. Knowing that my boss was expecting a perfect video, I quickly apologized to the doctor and moved the light to where it was best for my camera angle. There was an excellent chance that my boss and his wife would have been outraged that I would get in the way of the doctor, but instead, my boss, the cinematographer, gave me a high-five and said... ‘YES! That's why I knew you were perfect for the job!’

”I never watched that video, but I'm told that it was wonderfully shot and perfectly lit.”

Moving On

Brooke Sheldon of Lilybrooke Events, a one-time assistant to Barbara Bush, feels that assistants to devils wearing Prada should simply quit and find other jobs, and says her time with Mrs. Bush was “almost completely enjoyable.” She remembers being invited to a personal performance at the Bush’s summer home in Kennebunkport, Maine, which was also attended by members of their current staff and some locals. There was also the time they visited the White House during George W. Bush’s presidency and staff and administrators were so happy to see Mrs. Bush that they cried.

“But of course there were times when we disagreed or just plain grew tired of each other—especially after a long trip,” Brooke says. “My role was to assist her, not be her friend (although 99 percent of the time I felt like a granddaughter, and she would often say she was as close to her aides as she was her grandchildren). But when times were tough, and she wasn’t happy (hanging chads, anyone?) it was my job to continue to make her life easier and continue to do the job I was hired for.”

Not surprisingly, sometimes these worker-boss relationships come crashing to ugly ends. When one final insult prompted Missy to quit, her boss compared their split to a divorce, and it came complete with a legal battle Missy initiated to collect unemployment, which she won. However, some endings are happier. Katie’s tenure on a different assisting gig to a “semi-celebrity chef” ended when she was promoted to the job she wanted. And Leon feels he’s learned all he can from this director, and feels like he can never rest easy in this job, so he’s ready to go shadow other directors. For unhappy personal assistants, greener pastures beckon, and after they have time to heal, they’ll still have the stories, even if they can’t legally tell them to others.

Craig Paulson Photography

2010-11-29T08:48:00.000-05:00

Today I had lunch with award winning New York City photographer, Craig Paulson. Craig is a fun Aussie who has had an interesting career working and doing things he loves. After growing up in Australia, he moved to London to work alongside a photographer. He traveled the world taking photos and eventually ended up in NYC where he currently has a thriving wedding business.

I met Craig this summer as he photographed a wedding that I coordinated in Biddeford Pool, Maine. His behind the scenes style is always welcomed and his professionalism prior to, during and after the wedding is outstanding. My bride and groom met Craig while he was photographing a friend's wedding. The couple was not yet engaged, but they proclaimed to Craig that he would be shooting their wedding. And true to their statement, days after their engagement, Craig was one of the first people they called.

The relationship between wedding planner and photographer can be a bit rocky at times. The photographer has a goal of taking as many great photos of the bride and groom as possible while the wedding planner has the goal of keeping everything on schedule and making sure that the bride and groom do get great photos, but also are able to have enough time to attend their reception.

It's not a hard formula to figure out, but all vendors have to be honest with each other about their expectations and their needs. We all have the same goal of making the bride and groom happy.

Craig was a pleasure to work with. He has amazing photos and I'm thrilled to now call him a friend.

Lilybrooke Staffers

2010-11-13T23:01:00.000-05:00

Ever wonder what an Event Planner is? Or how it all comes together? Well...it takes a team of dedicated, fun, creative people. We are doers. We are problem solvers. And we don't understand the word "no." Every situation has a way of being resolved, but many times, no one wants to be responsible for making the decision. An event planner not only makes the decision, they see to it that the decision works with the overall plan and tweaks every situation as needed throughout an entire event.

There's no better compliment than to hear how "easy everything was" or that "everything was flawless." There is no such thing. But if something appears seamless to our guests, then our job was done correctly. The food is often delayed so someone has to tell the Best Man that his toast will happen shortly. Or that the First Dance or Cake Cutting is coming.

Sometimes our tasks are not as glamourous. The restroom is out of toilet paper, it's about to rain, the father doesn't have time to finish all the tasks he thought he would have time for on his daughter's wedding day.

At Lilybrooke, we are an extension of all your event needs. If it happens the day of your event, it is our problem to solve. It becomes our job description whether we signed up for that problem or not.

Below are a few fun examples of being caught in the act.

Lana making sure everyone has an umbrella.

Bob our film crew during the "Take 5" news taping.

Gift Bags take an army of people to assemble, sort and deliver!

Groomsmen could almost have one person assigned to them just prior to the ceremony. No matter how smooth the rehearsal, more direction is always needed for our supportive team of guys.

Of course you alway need someone with the bride at all times to not only help her with anything (and any vendors) while she is getting ready, but to keep in communication with the staff at the church to be sure the bride arrives at just the right time! Lucy was every bride's best friend this summer.

Walk thrus always include notebooks full of notes, measurements and small details. Every comment could play into a much larger role later on as the entire look is pulled together.

If you've ever stood in a wide open space trying to contemplate what a large tent full of flowers, tables, chairs, candles and 200 of your closest friends looks like, then you understand this photo.

The chairs look pretty when they are finished, but it is almost its own science to get them picture perfect.

Pat helping to determine the amount of light that will be needed if it's too cold and the dark drapes need to be closed.

Nils helping out a proud father on his never-ending to-do list.

It takes a lot to get a tent and the rental items to go from this...

To this!

We love what we do. And we have fun doing it.

New York, New York 10028

2010-11-03T00:46:00.000-04:00

I have always wanted to live in NYC. After college, I was just 3 hours south in Washington, DC and enjoyed visiting friends in the city frequently. I have interviewed off and on since those visits, once getting an offer at Sotheby's, but the timing was never right.

Lilybrooke is my ideal job that allows me to be busy in the summer months in a town that I adore, Kennebunkport, but also have the freedom to explore or hibernate in the winter months. This winter I finally landed in New York's Upper East Side. Since the majority of my brides live in New York, it is a perfect location for me to be.

Gabby (my dog) and I arrived today and the first adventure after unpacking and delivering the rental car was to walk the three short, beautiful blocks to the Metropolitan Museum. I haven't been there in years and have never been there at night. It was a stunning and wonderful welcome to our new neighborhood.

A Cape Porpoise Wedding at Pier 77

2010-09-25T22:19:00.000-04:00

Tina and Adam are a fun, loving midwest

couple who were excited to escape

Ohio to host a small, intimate

wedding along

Maine's seacoast.

The ceremony and luncheon reception were held at Pier 77, a charming restaurant at the end of Pier Road in the sleepy fishing village of Cape Porpoise,

Maine, over looking the small harbor.

The weather was warmer than usual for late September, but that didn't stop the wedding guests from dancing long into the reception.

Wedding Coordinator: Brooke Sheldon, Lilybrooke Events

Venue: Pier 77

Flowers: Fleurant

Cake: Let Them Eat Cake

Hair: All Season's Day Spa

Photographer: Ellen Dooley

Band: Center Stage

Transportation: InTown Trolley

River Club Wedding

2010-09-18T21:26:00.000-04:00

Kate and Dave loved the Kennebunk River Club so much that they not only were married on the back porch overlooking the river, they had their reception and post party there as well.

Having worked for Vogue in New York and now as an Interior Designer in San Francisco, Kate had a specific, tailored look that she achieved through so many small details. From the sisal rugs flanked with candlelit lanterns that became her aisle through the boathouse, to small topiaries atop custom made striped linen tablecloths in off-white and tan, the speciality cocktails and a band like no others, the Michael Aranella Dreamland Orchestra. As an additional touch for her guests, the Kennebunkporter had on hand several vintage cars from their collection to provide a ride home for guests who were not within walking distance.

The evening concluded with an after party across the street in the "Casino" where a DJ was brought in from NYC to spin tunes into the late hour as guests enjoyed late night burgers and fries and serving them selves from a popcorn machine.

Wedding Coordinator: Brooke Sheldon, Lilybrooke Events

On-site Coordinator: Tressa Sedlock, Lilybrooke Events

Venue: The River Club, Kennebunkport, Maine

Caterer: The White Apron

Florist: Anniebell's

Photographer: Emilie Inc

Band: Michael Aranella Dreamland Orchestra

Hair: Studio 41

Transportation: Kennebunkporter

A Laudholm Seaside Wedding

2010-08-14T11:12:00.000-04:00

Sarah and Rob are a Colorado couple with New England ties, so when they came to Maine for their wedding, the combination of St. Ann's outside chapel and Laudholm Farm provided the obvious setting for their wedding.

The bride worked tirelessly to provide numerous small details of her and Rob's favorite things. From personalized packages of lavender that were tossed during the recessional, to jars of Maine blueberry jams and mustards that were given as guests departed the reception.

The bride made flags that hung from inside the tent and each dinner table was decorated with unique vintage linens that were a mix of family linens and those picked up throughout the year at area sales. The centerpieces were

a mixture of wild flowers placed in a fabulous variety of silver pieces at varying heights.

Guests enjoyed a cocktail hour at the top of the hill, while dinner was inside a sailcloth tent with dessert and dancing following in the historic barn who's doors were draped with dramatic burlap.

Wedding Coordinator: Brooke Sheldon, Lilybrooke Events

Venue: Laudholm Farm, Wells, Maine

Caterer: Kitchen Chicks

Florist: Beautiful Day's

Photographer: David Murray Weddings

Hair: All Seasons Day Spa

Transportation: Kennebunkporter

A Biddeford Pool Seaside Wedding

2010-07-11T00:13:00.000-04:00

Lindsay and Arthur met in college and Arthur introduced Lindsay to the wonders of Maine. Once they were engaged it was quickly decided that they would host the wedding near Arthur's family's summer home in Biddeford Pool, Maine.

The stunning, simple St. Brendan's Chapel was

the location for the ceremony. The church was

adorned with flowers and draped in a dramatic, stylish fabric that had never

been done before. It was a special touch greeting guests who traveled so far to be there.

Everything was perfect aside from the pouring rain which paused long enough for guests to get inside the church and then from the church to the reception just down the street at the Abenakee Club. No one seemed to mind the raindrops. After all, rain on your wedding is good luck.

Wedding Coordinator: Brooke Sheldon, Lilybrooke Events

Church: St. Brendan's, Biddeford Pool, Maine

Reception Venue: The Abenakee Club, Biddeford Pool, Maine

Caterer: Kitchen Chicks

Cake: Let Them Eat Cake

Florist: Fleurant

Photographer: Craig Paulson

Videographer: Lynne Valeri

Band: Secret Service

Ceremony Quartet: New England Musicians

Hair: Studio 41

Make Up: Cottage Breeze Day Spa

Manicure and Pedicures: Breakwater Inn Spa

Tent: Marshall Tent Rental

A 4th of July Wedding

2010-07-04T23:29:00.000-04:00

Shannon had always dreamed of a wedding on her favorite holiday, the 4th of July, so when she became engaged to a U.S. Secret Service agent, the date was a given. Working with many different shades and variations of Red, White and Blue, we finally selected lots of blues and a touch of a deep, traditional red.

Shannon and her mom did much of the design on their own, with Lilybrooke overseeing the planning aspects, but I was happy to help out this amazing family that I am honored to now call friends. Here I was caught tying flowers and lanterns on the pew ends of the Franciscan Monastery where all of their family and friends gathered for the ceremony. The Monastery is steps from her mother's Kennebunk, Maine home, so the bride decided to walk to her ceremony

along the path that they walked every Sunday.

Following the reception, InTown Trolley took all of the guests to Kennebunk Beach for the beautiful firework show. It truly was a magical day for Shannon & Jeff as the months of planning made this day, one that the bride had dreamed of for years, become a reality.

A thank you to C.A. Smith Photography for providing photos.

Wedding Coordinator: Brooke Sheldon, Lilybrooke Events

Venue: The Franciscan Monastery, Kennebunk, Maine

Caterer: Winks

Florist: Autumn

Photographer: CA Smith Photography

DJ: David Reid

Transportation: InTown Trolley

Tent: Marshall Tent Rental

Lilybrooke on Destination Decisions

2010-02-08T11:40:00.000-05:00

Destination Decisions

Finding a spot to tie the knot isn’t as easy as it sounds

By Anna Sachse
CTW Features

[credit: Sandals/Martha Stewart Weddings]

Maybe you always wanted to get married by the sea but both you and your fiancé have lived your whole lives in Nebraska. Or maybe you’re just looking for a subtle way to trim your guest list.

Both of these reasons and more provide perfect motivation for a destination wedding. But with an entire world at your disposal, how do you pick the perfect place to go?

“The first thing I do is ask clients what they’re going for,” says Brooke Sheldon, a destination wedding planner and owner of Lilybrooke Events in Kennebunkport, Maine. “Do they want their guests to have an opportunity to be active – perhaps hiking or kayaking – or do they want them to be able to lounge on the beach? Once you get that overall feel, you can build the wedding from there.”

But do keep in mind that regardless of whether your dream wedding takes place in a European castle or involves sleeping in African tents, there are always a few standard logistics to consider.

For example, if the guest list is larger than just the two of you, it’s a good idea to pick a spot that has multiple flights going in and out, says Renee Meyer, a destination wedding travel specialist and founder of Unforgettable Honeymoons.

This can help prevent no-shows due to bad weather and may keep airfares within a reasonable level. Another way to keep things affordable for your guests is to avoid peak seasons. “Christmas to the end of March usually costs about 30 percent more than the rest of the year in places like the Caribbean,” Meyer says.

And there are other things that might affect your decision, adds Sheldon. These include: seasonal weather; drastic temperature changes when the sun goes down; the wedding-related experience of your resort and/or coordinator; other major events that could affect flight and hotel availability or impede traffic; and possible waiting periods or blood-test requirements (such as in Mexico) for valid marriage certificates.

Taking all these considerations, and more, into account, the experts have a few top destination wedding recommendations.

Meyer has helped plan over 100 wedding in Fiji since 1994. Known for its romantic, bungalow-style hideaways, turquoise waters, white sand beaches and lush rain forests, this picture-perfect destination also makes it easy on couples – marriages performed here are legally recognized in the U.S., they have no waiting period or blood test requirement, one U.S. dollar buys approximately two Fijian dollars and the flight is 10 hours nonstop from LAX. “Many resorts even incorporate wedding services into seven-night packages with airfare, upscale lodging and all meals,” says Meyer, who herself got married at Qamea Resort & Spa on Fiji’s Qamea island in 2005. You can choose to get married on the beach, by a waterfall, on top of a hill, in the gardens or even have a traditional Fijian wedding, complete with warriors in full costume.

Another one of Meyer’s favorite wedding locales is Jamaica. There is a two-day waiting period for licenses (which cost $200), but no blood tests, it’s easy to get to from all over the U.S. and many hotels offer great bargains. Meyer recommends staying at one of the four Couples Resorts, where weddings (including a ceremony on the beach, in the garden or on a terrace, the minister, champagne, flowers and cake, as well as a couples’ massage) are free if you stay at least three nights. “I consistently get 100-percent great feedback,” says Meyer.

Also at the top of her list are the Hawaiian islands of Kauai and Maui, where all the beaches are public, and St. Lucia in the West Indies, which has spectacular views and plenty of opportunity for activities like snorkeling, sailing, wind surfing and trail riding.

But as nice as tropical locales sound during colder months, do keep in mind that you don’t always have to leave the continent to find your “destination,” adds Sheldon, who specializes in New England weddings. “For example, Maine is easy to fly into or only a five hour drive from New York City,” she notes. “And it’s really such a magical place, where the climate, landscape and people are truly so unique that you still end up feeling like you traveled faraway.”

Radio Ad for "The Wedding Experience"

2010-01-12T15:05:00.000-05:00

Today our ads for The Wedding Experience began to play on five different area radio stations throughout Grand Rapids, MI. Taping radio spots is so much fun to play around with. It was a challenge to create an image for the wedding show using drama and inflection in your voice. I'm certainly not great at it, but enjoy the opportunity when tasked with it.

The equipment and how they edit is amazing to me. They can make you talk faster (even ever so slightly) or slower to fill that 60 or 30 second time-slot perfectly. They can remove the pauses or edit out the slightest error and replace it with the corrected version. Below is what my voice looks like on a computer monitor. Thanks to Gene the Production Director below, and Steve (our cameraman).

The amazing lesson is, if you aren't smiling, you can hear it. I guess it's true that you never are fully dressed without a smile.

www.grweddingexperience.com

Resolution in Training

2010-01-05T22:17:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite titles every year is that of Race Director. I am privileged to wear that hat twice a year coordinating two 5K events and one 10K. I've never considered myself a "runner" but I have run, slowly, since grade school.

New Year's Eve 2008 I decided to participate in the New Year's Resolution Run as I was wanted to go to every possible running event to learn how I could make my events better for those who participated. That was one of the hardest 4 miles I have ever run, but somehow, somewhere I decided that 2009 was the year I would accomplish a long standing and long shot goal of finishing a marathon. This was not a goal that I ever considered obtainable, especially when I could not run 4 miles without sneaking in a walk here and there. But last January I made that decision and I spent the next seven months in training. I even started to believe that I could do anything that required endurance. I was after all training for a marathon...

In July 2009, I finished the San Francisco Marathon, beating my time goal, enjoying negative splits, smiling, singing the entire time (sorry if you were within ear shot of me) and without walking (a feat I still have a hard time believing).

After the marathon, life and work became very busy and I have hardly run since. Last week I decided to again participate in the New Year's Resolution Run. It was another difficult 4 miles, but I am excited to get back on that track. It seems the perfect way to kick off a new year. A new year full of new hopes.

While 2009 was a turbulent year, it was an amazing year of growth for me and accomplishments reached. I've set another round of seemingly impossible goals for 2010 and hope that next January, I can reflect and write about having achieved those as well.

Until then, I will continue to participate in as many events as possible as that is the only way that I have found I can make my life and work become best practices. I continue to learn and am encouraged from those around me.

Happy New Year. Mall all of your goals be lofty.