On October 31st, an intimate group of friends joined their Halloween-loving hosts for their annual Halloween celebration. The hosts selected Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) as the theme, and worked with A Flair for Affairs®, Flourish Floral Productions and Puff’n Stuff Catering to create a festive Mexican dinner party under the stars. (Day of the Dead is a Mexican holiday which is also celebrated throughout Latin America and in parts of the United States. This colorful holiday is steeped in cultural traditions, and centers on celebrating deceased loves ones by honoring them with food, drink and parties.)

The hosts (our lovely clients) are never shy to admit that Halloween is their favorite holiday of the year. They have amassed an enviable décor collection, comprised of everything from ravens and skeletons, to exotic artisan-crafted items. Upon setting the date for the dinner party, they contacted Elisa Delgardio to help develop a stylish event design, and coordinate the elements of the celebration.

Invitations were sent, and party guests were asked to dress for the occasion. Given the choice of dressing in costume or proper dinner attire, the majority opted for the former. To the hosts’ delight, the arrival of each and every guest created a buzz of excitement, and created a synergistic experience for all.   Fortunately, photographer Errol Colon was on hand to capture the spirit of each guest.

As guests arrived on that gorgeous fall evening, they nibbled on butler passed hors d’oeuvres. Tasty goat cheese quesadillas and mini tacos were complemented by margaritas and sangria served by the Puff’n Stuff team. Guitarist David Naidu played a delightful array of Spanish classical and South American music.

Audible gasps were heard as the guests saw the feasting table and perused the vignettes and decor sprinkled throughout the home. Flourish Floral Productions did an incredible job of incorporating the quirky and colorful Day of the Dead elements into two table-scapes and various ‘oferendas’. Elisa Delgardio (A Flair for Affairs) took on a bit more than the planning and event design – she is also credited with creating the custom linen table runners. (Some décor items shown are part of the hosts’ collection.)

After cocktails and conversation in the main house, guests transitioned to the outdoor patio where dinner would be served al fresco. Top shelf guacamole was prepared table-side and served with tortilla chips, a trio of salsas and queso cheese. After enjoying the salad course, guests were treated to a dual plated entree with a Mexican flair.

But dessert was the showstopper: Flourless Chocolate Chili Cake with an edible Sugar Skull image on white chocolate – it was truly to die for!

And what would a Halloween party be with out treats! The host created charming gift bags that were given to guests as they departed.

Photographer:Errol Colon Photographers
Event Planning / Design: Weddings & Events by A Flair for Affairs
Floral / Design: Flourish Floral Productions
Catering: Puff ‘n Stuff Catering
Guitarist: David Naidu guitaristonwheels.com

Private Parties, Entertaining at Home

The Winter Park Wedding Expo is returning to Hannibal Square on September 6th! Get your tickets today online (or visit local Winter Park merchants for free passes!) Just in time for anyone planning a winter or early spring celebration! The Winter Park Wedding Expo will feature the very best Central Florida wedding and event professionals in a convenient location. Similar to a Bridal Show – yet, with a casual and upscale vibe.

SATURDAY – SEPT. 6th 2014

Participating Vendors:

Elegant Imagery Photography | A Flair for Affairs | Tuscawilla Country Club | errol colon photography | Winter Park Wedding Chapel | Flower No. 5 | Beautiful Bride Orlando … and many more!! Actually, over three dozen Central Florida businesses will be present to meet and greet all who turnout.

Plus, this show is not exclusively for bridal couples – If you are planning a birthday celebration or holiday event, I’m sure you will collect tons of great ideas!

Purchase Tickets: $10.00

Wedding Expo

Winter Park Wedding Expo

Saturday, September 6, 2014 – Starts: 3:00 pm
Saturday, September 6, 2014 – Ends: 5:00 pm

721 W. New England Ave.
Winter Park,
FL 32789

www.facebook.com/WinterParkExpo

I’ve been working on this project for a few months and now it’s time to share the news!  The shine event is an educational and professional development conference for ABC members as well as all creative professionals serving the wedding and event industry.

Prologue: I established myself as an independent event planner and bridal consultant more than a dozen years ago. While my title and credentials have gradually changed and evolved over the years, the fact that I am an entrepreneur does not change. I can label myself Planner, Designer, Consultant, or Specialist; I can throw in CEO, Owner or Founder… But the only thing that truly matters is this: I am the business owner, and I am responsible for my successes as well as my failures.

I don’t know about you, but I don’t like to fail. And yet, I entered business without knowing how to be successful as entrepreneur.

Did I make mistakes?  – Yes I did.

Did I waste time and money? – Absolutely.

Did I learn from my mistakes? – You bet!

And that is the key:  Learning (education).  As an entrepreneur, learning is not optional.  You must learn, or your business will not survive.  You must find inspiration or you will burn out.  You must adapt and try new things or you will become irrelevant.

I love my job.  But entrepreneurship fascinates me!  Entrepreneurs are some of the most intelligent, resourceful and creative people I’ve ever met.  I have learned so much from my event industry colleagues I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to help educate and inspire others by organizing the shine event.

The Association of Bridal Consultants – Florida has put together an incredible conference: {shine} is a professional development conference featuring superb educational sessions presented by experts & leaders in our Industry and and beyond! Get a jump on your FALL 2014 EVENTS by squeezing 6 months worth of meetings into 2 turbo-charged days of inspiration, motivation, and networking! 

Presenting shine’s Dynamic Speakers:
Planners, Designers, Authors, Entrepreneurs, Trend setters, Influencers, and Award Winners:

 Donnie Brown – Donnie Brown Weddings & Events – @WDonnieBrown

Heather Canada, MBC – First Coast Weddings and Events – @FirstCoastWedd

Eddie Diaz, CSEP – Encore Creations – @eddiediaz

Kelly McWilliams – Weddings by Socialites – @weddingtidbits

Jennifer Lee – Coach Jenn Lee – @coachjennlee

Brenda Fernandez MBC – Dream Wedding Mexico – @Brendaferza

Save the Date!  Just in time for anyone planning a fall or winter celebration! The Winter Park Wedding Expo will feature the very best Central Florida wedding and event professionals in a convenient location.  Similar to a Bridal Show – yet, with a casual and upscale vibe.

Participating Vendors:

The Alfond Inn | Absolutely Fitting | A Flair for Affairs | The Collection | GiGi’s Cupcakes | Dream Designs Florist | Tuscawilla Country Club … and many more!!  Actually, over 40 Central Florida businesses will be present to meet and greet all who turnout.   Score free tickets from local retailers and vendors (like me!).

Plus, this show is not exclusively for bridal couples – If you are planning a birthday celebration, or holiday event, I’m sure you will collect tons of great ideas!

Purchase Tickets: $10.00

Wedding Expo

Winter Park Wedding Expo

Saturday, Jun 7, 2014 – Starts: 3:00 pm
Saturday, Jun 7, 2014 – Ends: 5:00 pm

721 W. New England Ave.
Winter Park,
FL 32789

A few weeks ago, I received a call a wonderful client who LOVES hallow’een – I will affectionately refer to her as Mrs.   Fortunately, Mrs and her husband also love parties and entertaining at home – so when she told me she had fallen in love with the idea of hosting a dinner party themed around Edgar Allan Poe’s The Raven , I was delighted to lend a hand.

Shortly after, I met Mrs at her home to discus her ideas; at which time she also showed me her (copious) stash of hallow’een decor plus an enviable collection of black birds  in all shapes and sizes.  Needless to say, she was ready to get her invites out and set a menu.   It took barely a few weeks to pull it all together since her vision was so clear and the guest list was small.  Approximately twenty guests were expected so it was reasonably easy to put extra effort into all the special details.

Dinner Party Inspiration: The Raven

photos (c) ELISAD.com

There are barely enough pictures to do justice to all the incredible details, but hopefully you will get the idea.   Invites were hand made fairly easily and sealed with red wax (P for Poe) before they were mailed.   Guests were encouraged to come in costume, or wear black and white.   We used the living room area to set up a large feasting table to accommodate their guests.   Above, you will see  Mrs  etched* The Raven poem on her large living room mirror (*using a dry erase marker), and pictures of Edgar and his wife were displayed on the piano.

photos (c) ELISAD.com

Guests arrived early evening and mingled over cocktails and a cheese platter.  The catered dinner was a four course affair~ featuring a black linguine appetizer, a wilted salad, and a duo entree with purple potatoes and white asparagus.  It was to die for …

There was an abundance of candles:  Two dozen luminaries were set out side the front entrance, plus pillar candles in lanterns.  Inside, candle-scapes and ravens were placed on tables, sideboards, book shelves, the mantel, the piano and throughout the sprawling centerpiece.  The table was set with black satin linen, and napkins to match.   Fortunately, an old typewriter was also on hand and it was set atop a secretary desk to create a vignette: The Raven was typed out on vellum paper.

photos (c) ELISAD.com

The wax seal used on the invites was also used on each place card and the menu card, as well as a few other small signs.

The hosts compiled a perfect playlist of creepy music: themes from The Omen, Halloween, and other eerie classics (via Pandora).  In the Den, the TV played a DVD of  Vincent Price movies.

Everyone had the most delightful time!  Quite a few of the guests came in The Raven inspired costumes; one gentleman came as “Dead-gar Allan Poe“, which was hilarious!   I was thrilled just to be there and all the kudos go to our hostess the for the outstanding atmosphere at the event! – I doubt I could’ve done a better job.  Definitely a unique idea to try!

Because I’m still feeling a bit awe-struck over the the henna inspired cake that was shown on the “Amber and Amethyst” inspiration board I recently created, I’ve collected a few more great examples that I’m excited to share with you!  If this type of cake is appealing to you, you should know that wedding cakes designed with henna inspired details and intricate patterns are also called mehndi cakes.

Pictured below is a gorgeous cake inspired by South Asian and Indian culture.  Created by IndAroma‘s Abhishek Handa, this artful cake makes a glamorous and memorable statement.   Source: IndAroma. 6548C Little River Tpke., Alexandria; 703-354-1812

This next lovely henna inspired wedding cake is by  Eileen Carter Creations.

Many thanks to Jamie Howell Photography for the above photo

What’s not to love about the subtle elegance of a white on white cake?  Pattern and texture make this cake come alive!

photo by jaytsaiphotography.com

The henna inspired pattern seen on this next wedding cake has a more whimsical flair.  The intricate detail is very pretty and balanced nicely by the simplicity of the smooth white icing.

Sugar Coated Desserts and Cakes, LoveLifeImages.com

And just for fun…  how about some cookies!

Engagement season is upon us!  Naturally, I am excited for all the recently engaged couples! But my planner|designer self is eagerly looking forward to styling the upcoming 2013 weddings with the creative ideas I’ve been pondering for the past few months.

What do you think of this inspiration board?  It’s titled Amethyst and Amber – although I definitely envision the look being accented with platinum or silver accents, so there would actually be three key colors.  Purple is a very popular color and widely used in event design. It’s also one of my favorite colors – regardless of the shade! – perhaps because amethyst is my birthstone.  My interpretation of amber is a rich golden-brown color, much richer than yellow; more like a jewel tone, less like a gold which is metallic.    Anyway, if you love color, and are open to the richness of jewel tones and layered colors you will absolutely adore these ideas as much as I do!

Can’t wait to hear your thoughts!

Unfortunately, I find myself revisiting topic of hiring professionals. In what is indisputably the craziest wedding DJ disaster (aka DJ #Fail) I have ever experienced, I must tell you about “DJ C”.

(Names and places are not important, the point of the post is: this really happened!)

“DJ C” started out with a fair amount of promise. I learned that he was hired by the Father of the Bride on a recommendation. On the wedding day, “DJ C” arrived on time, nicely dressed, with decent equipment. So far, so good.

Unbeknownst to us, the dj/mc started drinking before the guests even entered the dinner reception. He must have gotten a beer (or two) from the cash bar at the cocktail reception. By the time we were ready to introduce the wedding party into the reception, we began to sense that the “DJ C” was a little ‘off’. Only a short while later the bartender came to us and mentioned that the dj/mc had already purchased four drinks. We had no choice – “DJ C” was cut-off immediately – and we were only an hour or so into the reception!

*I must stop momentarily to point out that I do not condone vendors drinking, nor do the establishments I work with. However, when we are dealing with a vendor we have never met before, we are typically not aware of their relationship with the client (friend, co-worker, etc.) – so we keep a watchful eye on them.

“DJ C” continued to act oddly, and in my opinion obnoxiously; the music was a bit too loud and I was incredibly annoyed that he kept repeating his own name (“I’m DJ C…!“), but we focused on managing the flow of the reception and keeping everything on track. We made it through parent dances and cake cutting, then said our farewells for the evening. All the formalities were complete, and the guests were dancing up a storm – exit the coordinators.

The next day:

Apparently, a few wedding guests* were buying and slipping the DJ/mc drinks and he got more intoxicated. Mother of the Bride told us how “DJ C” with microphone in hand, announced a special message to the groom: “Congratulations on marrying a nice piece of ass!” Further… three wedding guests* were actually friends of the DJ (aka crashers) – they flew under the radar due to open seating, and everyone just assumed they were invited by the other family. Last but not least, he kept trying to end the reception early.

So… to recap: DJ/mc came by way of a recommendation (not from a preferred vendor list offered by venue or coordinators), drank continuously during his shift (a no-no), brought his posse (who does that?), acted unprofessionally and made inappropriate comments, and tried to shortchange his clients by ending their evening early.

This story gives me an opportunity to share a very informative article with you:

In the article “How Much Should Your Wedding DJ Cost?“, author Stacy Tamaki shares timeless tips on selecting a quality DJ/mc.
She also lists a number of mis-steps, including  a few I have witnessed over the years,  such as:  incorrectly pronouncing the bride or groom’s name during the introductions, dressing or acting inappropriately, hitting on guests, drinking on the job, using inappropriate language or using inappropriate humor.

Continue reading weditorial for universal tips on hiring qualified professionals and planning a sensational, emotional and unforgettable wedding!

It’s time for me to sit down with you and have “the talk”. It sucks that we live in an imperfect world, and it’s no fun for me when I have to talk about this stuff – I feel like “Debbie Downer” – but I owe it to you. An important part of a wedding planner|event planner‘s job is to mitigate risk, and help our clients protect their investment as well as themselves.  Planners bring a wide array of experiences to the table, and the ability to spot potential risks and liabilities in particular is an extremely valuable benefit of our services.

You may be relying on contracts to protect your interests and ensure services are rendered, but how closely are you paying attention?  What liabilities are you assuming by signing an agreement with a venue or vendor?  Read carefully and you will likely see terms and conditions such as these:

“Renter assumes all liability of damages from candles including, damage from waxes, fire, or personal injury.” 

“…the host will be responsible for any and all injury to persons or damage to property during your use of the premises…” 

“The event host is liable for any damages…” “Damages includes physical damage to any part of The Premises, personal injury to any person attending the Wedding/Reception Event, any unpaid balances to third­‐party vendors, and  any other physical, financial, or personal damage sustained as a result of this function.”

“(the venue) is not responsible for items lost, stolen or left by hosts, members of a wedding party, or guests”

Not to mention that it’s becoming more common for venues and public facilities to request (require) you provide them with a certificate of liability insurance.  Sounds a little scary – doesn’t it?

Forget the venue… Let’s just celebrate in the backyard

Nope, you are not off the hook if you throw a party or event at home.  For instance: If you host a party are you liable for injuries to a guest? Does it make a difference if you provide alcohol for your guests?  What if they bring their own alcohol?  Are you responsible for your guests after they leave?   Wait, there’s more: Special caution needs to be applied when certain activities, such as swim/pool parties or boat outings, in conjunction with drinking actually increase the danger of the activity itself as well as the liability of the provider.

Fortunately for all, there is insurance for weddings and events – because in situations where things don’t go as planned, it can be a real life saver!  Here are a few examples of wedding related mishaps:

•     Unexpected illness, injury or death of people who play an important part in the wedding
•     Dangerous and severe weather conditions that prevent the reception site from opening or impede guests from attending (hurricanes, blizzards, etc.)
•     Bridal shop closed down (Priscilla of Boston)
•     Stolen or lost gifts
•     Rented table linens accidentally thrown away
•     If the bride’s gown is lost, stolen or damaged
•     The bride or groom has to unexpectedly relocate for a job/active military duty

How much does it cost?

According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), wedding insurance can cost between $125 to $400, depending on the amount of coverage you buy (options, costs and limitations vary widely). When comparing policies, read the fine print carefully (…before you sign!).  Pay attention to maximum coverage limits, exclusions and deadlines for purchasing various options.  Additionally, some policies have deductibles you must pay before insurance kicks in.

Liability insurance for short-term special events provides important protection for a variety of organized events – such as family reunions, weddings, business meetings, and community events. Some events are one day only, while others may take place over a weekend or a few days. Fees vary based on the amount of insurance needed, number of attendees and the nature of the event, and a number of other factors. For example, a family reunion for 100p. will be assessed differently than a multi-day chili cook-off event for 1200p.

Ultimately, the overall cost of insurance often works out to be a small percentage of the total cost of the event (except in the case of free, no-budget, fund-raising type events). Whether you’re investing 15k or 115k, and receive a quote equal to roughly 1.5% to 5% (possibly more, as events vary), you literally can’t afford NOT to have insurance.

Oxford Hills Sun Journal (c) 2010

Last yet not least, it is widely advised to consult your insurance agent before buying additional liability coverage.  Your agent can check how much coverage your homeowner’s insurance provides and whether it applies to wedding events; you may need a special rider or want to buy additional coverage through an umbrella policy.  For example, if a guest stumbles and falls during your event, that may be covered…. But what if a guest smashes a light fixture at the hotel and the owner holds you responsible – will your home insurance pay for the damage?

The benefits of working with a planner are clear:  Planners want to help you protect your investment and create a safe experience for your guests. By directing you to reputable facilities and vendors who carry appropriate insurance, and helping you make informed decisions, you can be confident you’re well prepared to handle unforeseen occurrences and properly covered for circumstances beyond your control.

image: youtube.com/user/jeffhayford

Additional Articles and Resources:

 
Should you buy wedding insurance for the big day? By JASON ALDERMAN , Parkersburg News and Sentinel

Why You Might Need Wedding Insurance , GalTime.com

Links to major wedding and event insurance providers:

WEDSURE (Firemans Fund) |  RVNA

WEDSAFE   |  PRIVATE EVENT INSURANCE

WEDDING PROTECTOR PLAN (Travelers)

NATIONWIDE

I’d like to share links to the most recent reports.  For a few questions below, I included my response – although by clicking through to the full report, you will see a very interesting and insightful array of answers.

Report #11. What marketing method has proven the most effective for you in attracting new clients?
Report #12. What do you consider as the most important skill a Wedding Planner or Wedding Designer should have and why?
Report #13. Please name some vendors you love working with.

A Flair for Affairs + Encore Creations

A: Tough question because the list is l-o-n-g!  It’s important to preface my answer by stating that every client deserves a tailored list of vendor referrals based on their needs and expectations.  

However, when I have the opportunity to bring together my fave “dream team” vendors, VHVideo.com is always on my list.  I also reach out to Encore Creations for weddings and events with an elevated level of production due to theming, entertainment or both. 

What makes them, as well as more than a dozen other unnamed “dream team-ers” so great?  For starters, they all share these characteristics: high level of professionalism, quick response time and follow-up, respect for me and my role as project manager/team leader, drama-free, excellent quality equipment/service/product, dependable, consistent, pleasant personality, always prepared and willing to over-deliver.

Report #14. What is a random interesting fact about you or your business?
Report #15. How did you determine pricing for your services when you first started out and what advice can you give new planners/designers?
Report #16. What’s your favorite part of the entire wedding planning process?
Report #17. If you could give only one piece of advice to a bride/groom, what would that be?
A: Recently I completed an elaborate wedding for a very detail oriented bride. The venue manager said to me (while we were loading in and setting up) “I was surprised she hired a planner”.

Considering our team of three was on-site for 12 hours overseeing every imaginable aspect and occurrence, I don’t dare think what that wedding would have been like without us! A member of the venue team approached me at midpoint during the event and complimented our work; it was obvious from her comments and the actions of the staff they were somewhat out of their element.  My advice: Hire a planner… Even if others think/tell you that you don’t need one.

Report #18. What trends are your seeing this year?
Report #19. Fill in the blanks: I love working with a couple that …
A: I love working with a couple that is excited by trying new things – especially if they’re willing to entertain a few wild suggestions and unconventional ideas. Pair that up with a decent budget and I am in heaven!
Report #20. What is the biggest strength that you bring to your clients?
A: The number one benefit that comes to mind is experience… Twenty-something years in the industry translates into literally hundreds of events that I have either planned, coordinated, attended or collaborated on. “An investment in experience is far wiser than savings gambled on inexperience.”

The second major benefit is my network – consisting of seasoned, connected, like-minded professionals, who are driven to satisfy and succeed!

. . . .

To learn more about the how Elisa is differentiated from other Wedding Planners and Coordinators, please click on over to HIRE ME for additional information.

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If you are interested in receiving future reports, simply click to subscribe.