9 Questions: Gabriela

Okay, so I've been asked by more than just a few to share some more info about me. 
Seeing that my favorite number is 9 (does that count towards 1 of the Qs?), I thought I'd answer 9 random "me" questions!

1.  What's your wedding inspiration and why?

That's a great one! Ya know, it actually comes from everything around me. It depends on the day, my mood, surroundings, client personalities, even some shows I catch on WEtv! Naturally I have modern tastes, but have always found a distinct fascination for traditional victorian looks.  I love clean lines, but can't turn my head away from wide moldings and carved woodworkings found in old victorian mansions and brownstones.  I guess that somewhat helps to appreciate all different tastes and preferences!

2.  If you could plan a wedding in outer space, would you?

Ha! Absolutely! That would be nuts! It would certainly be a challenge, but boy I think we'd be up for it.  Now if we can get the other vendors to agree...then we've got a 0 gravity party!

3.  Totally random: Cats or dogs? 

Aww that's actually really tough! I have two adorable and lovable sister cats who have such distinct personalities that it's almost impossible NOT to love 'em! But... I've always wanted my own pup! A Siberian Husky, that is. I know, I know, tons of hair maintenance, but I just can't help but love those cuties!

4.  When not working for NLE, what do you and Justin enjoy doing?

We love to go hiking, travel, attend wine tastings, go camping with friends and spend time with family (not necessarily in that order, but hey!). Even if we've got a long day planned, we try to take at least a few minutes out of the day to do something on our own to gain a little clarity or some down-time.  Justin might like to pick up his guitar and practice a little while I might catch up on some blog reading or get a quick work out in!

5.  Totally random: Beer or wine (and why)?

Haha, excellent question! Absolutely wine for me. My preference? Reds. Love me some Cabernet Savignon, Pinot Noir, Shiraz and Rioja. Yes, in that order most times. I'm such a steak and potatoes girl that red wines must naturally be my favorite.  Still working on acquiring my taste for the whites... but, if I am having chicken or pork and a Corona lite happens to be nearby... I might have one! ;)

6.  Do you prefer white or ivory as a wedding dress or pantsuit?

When I got married, my dress was ivory.  It just happened to work better for me and my color.  I generally recommend that if my brides are indecisive on which to go with, that they try on a white and ivory version of the dress/pantsuit they are considering. Sometimes ivory can make a bride look flushed and white against very white/pale skin can make one look even more pasty. Whichever makes you feel beautiful is the one!

7.  Who is your favorite bridal gown designer for 2010 (so far)?

Yikes! That's a really hard question! I definitely have a selected few on my top list, but, if I have to pick one... right now for 2010 it'd be Maggie Sottero. This collection is just gorgeous and exactly what an elegant and romantic bride might look for.  Check back with me next season, my favorite is likely to change!

8.  What kinds of weddings and parties do you accommodate?

All types, so long as they aren't against any local statues, laws, state or federal codes or laws, etc etc etc.  We really cater to everyone.  Of course we can't say we're well versed in serving all types of clients and all types of events, but we will certainly do our very best!  If we aren't comfortable with a certain venue or type of party, that is something we would discuss with you directly. In terms of weddings, it's important to note that we cater to ALL heterosexual and homosexual couples getting married/unifying their love.

9.  Are you certified in CPR? Not to sound weird or anything, but someone choked at my friend's Sweet 16 and I think it would be helpful if at least someone was certified.

Ya know, I totally agree! It's important that someone who IS certified, be there in case of an emergency.  Especially when there's all sorts of food, alcohol and dancing involved!  One never knows... :) Rest assured, I am certified in First Aid/CPR and AED for adults, good through April 2011.

Let's play again soon! Have a fun, safe and beautiful Memorial Day weekend!

Gabriela

Destination Weddings: 4 Considerations

"What about a destination wedding?" ... "How crazy would it be to have a destination wedding?"

There's a ton of advice out there on the web about destination weddings, but ultimately you've got to really boil everything down to 4 important questions/considerations.

1. How big of a wedding do you envision?  Generally, it seems that destination weddings/special events are more of an intimate gathering...unless of course money isn't really the in your "top 3" priorities.  If you're really expecting 150+ guests for your destination wedding, know that the price tag, stress and details all follow accordingly.  Don't get me wrong - I'm not saying it's bad to have that many guests!  Just keep in mind that you've really got to stay focused and keep your guests updated. 

Advice: While hunting for a destination spot to say "I do," find a place that is not only gorgeous and speaks to you both, but one with a wedding coordinator or maître d' that you feel comfortable with.  Are they giving you more than just 1 way of contacting them?  Is your gut telling you something doesn't seem right? Also, start an email list for your guests.  Remind them to have their flights reserved by a certain date, passports are up to date, etc., and be sure to block out rooms at your venue (if applic) or nearby resorts/hotels.

2. Are most of your guests willing to travel? I know I don't have to be the one to tell you that money is tight for most people right now. While yes, your wedding/event is extremely important and special, there are going to be people who will have to carefully evaluate that against cash.

Advice: Go through your guest list with 2 color pens. Make 1 color for those who will DEFINITELY be there (you know who they are) and make the other color for those who will POSSIBLY be there.  Now evaluate.  Are there more under the "Possibly" color than under the "Definitely" one?  If yes and you still want to invite them to your wedding, be prepared for the chance that all do show up and adjust accordingly. 

3. Can you deal with "long-distance" planning?  One thing you need to keep in mind is that the service you are used to dealing with at home (especially the NY area) is not always the same in your destination wedding area.  Many brides are surprised to learn that dealing with a wedding coordinator through the resort or hotel abroad requires a lot of patience and constant communication.  Remember, they don't necessarily operate in the "New York minute" you may be used to.  In fact, they may take such a lackadaisical approach it can be nerve-racking for the brides who need that total sense of control.

Advice: Set up weekly reminders for yourself and always follow up with emails confirming everything. If you're the type that needs to be there to see things through, this may be difficult for you. By keeping good lists and keeping it all in one spot (not some on your desk, some in a folder on your couch, etc) you can do it though! Check out what our friends at Martha Stewart suggest when planning a long-distance wedding.

4. Are you a procrastinator? If you are and you really, really want a destination wedding... make sure you have the support you'll need to do it right.  There are too many details and things to remember that you simply cannot procrastinate or push off until "things get closer." 

Advice: Have a sister, close friend who's in your bridal party, or your maid of honor (or all of the above!) help keep you stay on track and organized. The MOH & BM should both be helping you and your significant other with these details.  Delegate them some key responsibilities so that you're not left with having to remember everything for everyone. It's too overwhelming and can quickly take away the fun and relaxing experience a destination wedding should be!I'm sure many brides deliberate this, especially in the beginning of the engagement/planning process.

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Want to feature this article in your blog, e'zine or otherwise? You can, as long as you attach the following to the article:

Gabriela is the partner and certified wedding/special event consultant for No Limit Events LLC as well as the main writer for the company blog, No Limit Events LLC: Bloggin’ It. She enjoys sharing fun and unique wedding ideas, which include helpful wedding and party related posts, inspirational photos and advice for those planning special celebrations. Gabriela lives in New Jersey with her husband and business partner, Justin, and their 2 lovable cats. Planning a luxurious wedding or special party? Please visit her blog and website for specials and helpful advice.
 

Help! I've been asked to be MOH!

Okay. Don't panic. Your closest girl has asked you to be her head chica in her wedding. Now, I'm not going to lie.  Those "maids of horrors," you've heard of do exist. They put a damper on the special journey for a bride and groom and it really is unfortunate. 

But guess what? Relax. Yes you've got a H-U-G-E responsibility to your friend or sister, but you're going to fill that role so perfectly!

Here's a few simple tips to keep your head straight and act as the perfect, top maid!:

• Get to know the other bridesmaids. This is really important. You're all sharing an important part in your friends' life and have a special role in her wedding. You're all different young women, with different ideas on how to help. As MOH, you have to get to know each one and get their minds thinking of ways to help--under your direction. You have to provide the parameters. If you say "let's all think of some ideas for a bridal shower," you could end up with all sorts of ideas and possibly hurt a lot of feelings. Instead, it's better to come up with the framework (that is, of course, what a MOH should do!) and say "I know "Emma" loves XYZs restaurant, maybe we can host a shower there. What do you think?"
• Get a binder. Seriously. If not, you should have good e-management. Contact names, addresses and phone numbers for the brides' mother, maids, the groom and the best man are essential. You've got to be your girl's "right hand (wo)man" and you've got be organized. I expect to see the week of the wedding to be highlighted & circled (at the very least the day of!)!
• Welcome the PhD in you. Get ready to be a consoler, a mediator, a decider and fashion consultant (I'm sure I'm missing more).  Remember to keep your cool.  This is an exhilerating and stressful event for the bride and she needs everyone to keep their cool around her. Even when it can seem impossible. ( Just think: One day it could be her turn. >;) jk.)

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Want to feature this article in your blog, e'zine or otherwise? You can, as long as you attach the following to the article:

Gabriela is the partner and certified wedding/special event consultant for No Limit Events LLC as well as the main writer for the company blog, No Limit Events LLC: Bloggin’ It. She enjoys sharing fun and unique wedding ideas, which include helpful wedding and party related posts, inspirational photos and advice for those planning special celebrations. Gabriela lives in New Jersey with her husband and business partner, Justin, and their 2 lovable cats. Planning a luxurious wedding or special party? Please visit her blog and website for specials and helpful advice.