Happy New Year 2011!

EVERYONE!

As I mentioned in my last post, New Years for us is a time to reflect and to go..."whew!" Out with the old, in with the new (sort of).  It was our first year officially in business and we're extremely happy with the progress we've made thus far.

We've had the opportunity to connect with fabulous people like you and to establish our foundation appropriately, professionally and patiently. (Heck it was 2 years in the making before we announced our launch!)

Here's to a New Year filled with lots of:

• fun times and memories
• laughter
• love
• good health
• lessons learned
• happy surprises
• good fortune
• new friends
• success
• patience
• relaxation

Together I'm sure we'll make it a good year.

From our family to yours,

Justin & Gabriela

2011 New Years Wedding Inspiration!

Ahh yes, New Years.  Some love it, some hate it.  For me, it's kind of a relief. Closing out the "old" year and welcoming in a fresh, new start.  It forces me to think about this year, and what we've done (and haven't done), how we've grown, changed, adapted, struggled and loved. 

Then I get to thinking about all the fun things around New Years.  There are all the New Years Eve parties going on, fireworks, fun cocktails and even weddings!

In honor of New Years and those who may be considering or having a wedding next year that falls on New Years, below is an inspiration board we created with YOU in mind!

Photos by: Enzoani, Absolutely Audrey, Stella & Dot by Tina Kaminski Independent Stylist, CITY SWEETS & CONFECTIONS, Laura Davis Events, Occasions Caterers, The 2u Collection, http://www.weddingwire.com/biz/www-favorwarehouse-com-farmingdale/43803603bb0a38a2.html

10 Commandments of Wedding Planning: For Couples. {Raw/Uncut.}

Attention Brides/Grooms, MOH, BM, MOB, FOB and just about everyone in between. While we aim these Commandments towards those planning a wedding, know that almost all of these can be applied for just about any special event. I hope you're like me and can appreciate some sound advice, especially if it's to help avoid any unnecessary drama, issues or worse... legal cases. 

Don't believe me? Just take a peek over at tackyweddings.com. 'Nuff said. [Warning: You may need help picking your jaw back up off the ground. Still waiting for Justin to help me with mine...] ;)

As for these particular commandments, we hope you keep some of them in mind as you begin, continue or even finish your planning journey.  It's not an easy one, but it can be a lot of fun if you follow these and remember to smile along the way.  Planning a wedding or other special event should be special and fun...really!  

10 Commandments 
1.  Thou shall not demand a champagne party on a beer budget.
     Note: Please be realistic, or at least try to be. Talk to a planner like us - we can really paint a clear picture on what it'll likely run you. At the very least, take the time to research what typical costs are in your area (especially "per person" so you know roughly, at the minimum, what things can run).

2.  Thou shall act like a proper lady/gentleman at their wedding.
     Note: Self-explanatory. You don't want to look back on your photos/video a few years from now and go "Oh boy...what did we do..." or flat out "WTF!"

3.  Thou shall hold thyself responsible for his or her guests' enjoyment.
     Note: It's a party in your honor, but nonetheless you did invite your guests to share in your celebration, right? Make it a point to ensure they have fun...or at the very least, are well fed! 

4.  Thou shall not allow family/friends to make all of your decisions. 
     Note: Ever heard of the phrase "too many chefs in the kitchen"? Too many opinions can frustrate anyone - let alone a bride. Select a few people to refer to when you have questions or concerns. Ultimately if you're footing the bill, you definitely should be the final decision!

5.  Thou shall treat family, bridal party & guests as you would want to be treated.
     Note: None here. Self-explanatory...I hope. 

6.  Thou shall not invite everyone you've ever befriended, from birth until just last week.
     Note: Not worth the $$$, at least that's our opinion. Especially if it's between "Joe" your neighbor from up the block versus a long distance cousin. Just when you think it's probably too far for a family member to travel, you may just be surprised that they do want to attend! (It could be a mini-vacation for them too!)

7.  Thou shall not hire or allow their uncle/friend/father to be photographer/ videographer. 
     Note: Trust us. You're probably not going to like what you see. Some might say that you're definitely not going to like what you see.

8.  Thou shall make sure there is enough food for everyone.
     Note: Please don't assume that because you like mahi mahi that everyone should be fed that. Most places allow at least 2 entree selections so pick wisely! If you're planning a party with offsite catering, work with your catering team to ensure your guests are well fed. Food should be plenty, but reasonable.

9.  Thou shall remember that the reason for the party/reception is to celebrate the commitment or ceremony.
     Note: Even though your ceremony may last anywhere from 10 minutes to over an hour, it should be just as special and important (if not more) than your reception or party.  

10. Thou shall read all your contracts and follow the instructions therein.
     Note: Even if you hire someone like us that, as a part of our services, reviews your contracts with you, it doesn't mean you should let go of all responsibility. You need to know your rights and responsibilities when you decide to hire a professional to get the job done right. Read them-it's important (as I mentioned before: especially if you're footing the bill).

After posing this question to other colleagues, we realized how difficult it was picking out only 10.  With that said, here are just a few more (after all, we don't want to scare you off!)

*Thou shall practice "the kiss" and keep it G rated!
*Thou shall let go of micro-managing and actually enjoy their own party! (You don't need to be a day of coordinator "DOC" and the bride, or MOH, or groom, or whatever. For a wedding, this is an extremely important and special day. Consider even a professional DOC that can handle all the details so everyone else can have fun!)

What do you think of these commandments? Are there any others you'd recommend?

Seeing as this is scheduled for release on Christmas Eve, to all those who celebrate we wish you a very Merry Christmas and for everyone, a happy, healthy and love-filled New Year!

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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.

After the Party there's the After Party...

One of the hottest trends out there for 2011 weddings involves having an after party. Seriously, how cool! Many couples are realizing that a 4 hour reception just isn't enough time to party and celebrate! And IMO, I totally get that.

Couples, with or without their families and friends, put so much time and energy into planning the ceremony and reception that it flies by. Literally, as in a blink of an eye. I remember our wedding: we put in countless hours of planning and designing for us to go, "Wait, it's over?!" Luckily for us we had an after party (ahead of the trends, baby!) so all of our friends and family were able to continue partying and celebrating with us back at the hotel!

Now it seems like more couples are thinking the same thing (and even way cooler with even more unique ideas)! But, as every couple is unique, so is their after party.  Here's a few of what we'd consider some "party pointers":

1. Define the after party.  Is it going to follow the theme of your reception or will it be something entirely different? I know some might suggest you go with your original theme, but I'm a big fan of surprises.  (Justin, not so much.) Why not go from an elegant, late afternoon Spring wedding reception to an over-the-top NYC lounge-like after party? Even the guys can appreciate an after party. Now everyone can let loose and have fun (PG-13 kind-of-fun)!
2. The place. Can you have it on site where the reception is taking place? Is there a nearby pub or lounge? The number one thing should be convenience for this. If you want to save a few bucks, see if you can have the after party on site in a different room!  It's literally like stepping into a whole other party!  Regardless, any nearby location is always best so that you can save (if not eliminate any costs here too) on transportation.
3. Food & drinks. I know some of you are thinking: more food?! And the answer is, well, yes. Granted we're not talking about another 4 course meal or anything, but more along the lines of finger foods. Consider light bites either stationed or passed around. Be creative and have a signature cocktail for the after party! Make sure there are other options aside from alcoholic beverages (punch, water, sodas, juices).
4. But what to wear? Want to keep the same formality for the after party? How about suggesting a change of clothes for the party? It really all depends on how organized you are! The invitation should really outline all the important details (aside from the where, when, etc) and include any specific after party information.  For example: "Stick around after the reception! After party to be held in the Waterside Ballroom inside XYZ Manor from 11p-2a. Go from suit and tie to super fly! Get comfy and be prepared to party some more."

Okay, so you're looking to do this, but need inspiration? How about some eye candy for the post at the very least? ;) 

Check out some of these shots we found below to give you some inspiration should you also be interested in having your own after party!

Seriously, how awesome is this invitation with the disco ball, as designed by the lovelies at Wedding Paper Divas?! 

As a matter of fact, see below for the rest of their collection for After Parties as featured on their blog a few months ago.

This one to the left is elegant and could very well be the continutation of the theme and ideas in the reception party. Still loving this!


The last one below totally shows you how creative one can be with the idea of an after party!

Brunch, anyone? 

Just goes to show you that an after party doesn't always have to be literally right after the party. What a fun way to extend the mood/joy!

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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.

The Power of Peonies

Photos: (Left) www.flickr.com/photos/greenhem/4651352314 and greenhem/4697175237

Flowers in general can really enhance or even transform just about any type of special event.  Most professionals like florists and floral designers will agree that seasonal flowers are almost always the best choice.  These kinds of flowers are best in terms of cost and, well, they are in season so it means they generally are easier to purchase in various quantities.  

Peony and Hypericum Wedding Bouquet

The peony is native to certain parts of North America, Europe and Asia.  As flowers are important and even symbolic to Americans, the Chinese traditionally have also found certain flowers--like the peony--to be symbolic within their wedding celebrations.  For them, this flower symbolized a sense of renewal--much like the spring season where new plants, flowers and life are born.

According to Wikipedia, "The famous ancient Chinese city Luoyang has a reputation as a cultivation centre for the peonies. Throughout Chinese history, peonies in Luoyang are often said to be the finest in the country. Dozens of peony exhibitions and shows are still held there annually."

IMO, peonies are absolutely beautiful flowers.  They are especially so during the spring and summer months since for most that is their natural cycle's start time.  While they can really be just about any time year 'round, it is really no surprise why many brides include them in their floral designs when they are in season.

Peonies can be paired with various other blooms to make an amazing bouquet or centerpiece.  Consider adding Ranunculus, Roses and Calla Lilies as bold and beautiful accents.  Together, they can make a powerful statement!

Will you be incorporating any floral design? 
What do you think of peonies? 

Warmest love and wishes,

"No limits. Just high standards."

Be sure to check us out here too:

************************************************************** 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.

2010 Fun Winter Wedding Inspiration

Even though I do love my spring and summer months and really hate being chilly, I can't help but fall in love with winter each year. Maybe it's the combination of the holidays, the hot cocoa (with marshmallows of course!) and the snow that get to me.  Or maybe it's my birthday in January?  ;)

Being in this wintery spirit, I wanted to share with our planning brides and grooms an inspiration board I created with a bride using the help of Wedding Wire's new inspiration board website application!

Seriously, the application is addicting.  You can drag and drop tons of images (courtesy of pros like us!) to help you envision your style, theme, etc.

For this particular board, my bride and I chose 3 words that we wanted to represent through images for this winter-inspired board:  Romantic, earthy and elegance.

First we found winter romance through the engagement and wedding shots of the couples along with the softness of the lighting used throughout both the ceremony and reception.

For the earthy feel, there is the bride's bouquet pictured towards the bottom-middle, the linen on the ceremony chairs, the branches used for the reception centerpieces and even the cute artistic renderings on the mini cakes! The bride loved this because it spoke to her nature-loving personality.

Lastly, to add that elegant factor, we used a picture of a wedding invitation she adored along with beautiful "bling" like the bride's hair jewels and other super cute accessories. Oh, and you can't forget about those vibrant blue shoes! Mmm hmm -- there's that something blue! (She's so wearing blue shoes like these, by the way!)

Have you utilized their Inspiration Board yet? If so, share your pictures with us! We'd love to see what you've pulled together! 

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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.