Rainbows & Hawaii

Photo: Emona Hennen Photography for Velvet Cream Bakery
"When moisture and sunshine combine in just the right combination, the magical phenomenon of a rainbow occurs. Hawaii is known as the Rainbow State because of the frequency with which brilliant rainbows appear, arching over her valleys, cliffs and beaches like welcoming beacons." *quoted from http://www.guidebookamerica.com/news/hawaii_rainbow/index.htm


What better playful theme for a Hawaii celebration then Rainbows. I found these fun desserts (oh excuse me - is my sweet tooth showing) while surfing the web and "Viola" a concept has begun to develop. Of course - the Brother Iz version of "Somewhere over the Rainbow" would work. The trick to a successful execution of this would be to use either neutrals or a monochromatic color in all other areas(linens, attire, flowers, stationary, etc.) http://www.loveandoliveoil.com/2010/11/rainbow-cake.html

Cake Stands - a memento from your wedding day

The wedding cake is the first important cake of your married life and being able to keep the cake stand that enhanced & supported your wedding cake is such a romantic concept that I just had to blog about it.

Designs can be funky, modern, vintage and are produced in endless mediums - Clear Glass, Colored Glass, Tin, - surf the web and prepare to be a bit overwhelmed at the sheer volume of options.
Think about it! A beautiful stand for the wedding cake and a cherished functional keepsake.

The Banzai Toast in Hawaii

I love the fun celebration items that couples include in their weddings. Nothing raises the energy more than the hearty, happy and bold wishes of "Banzai" which is roughly translated as "Hurrah" and "Ten Thousand Years!".

In Hawaii, the term has taken on new meaning amongst the Japanese American community. It is used as a toast at celebratory events, particularly weddings. In this context, the Banzai is given twice - the first, "Shinro shimpu, banzai!" means "long life and happiness to the bride and groom." The second banzai is: "Raihin shokun, banzai!" meaning "Long life and happiness to all the guests!" After each toast, participants shout the word "banzai" three times in unison, raising their glasses each time, and drinking after the third.*

The idea of providing sake favor cups on the table would be a neat way to add to the toast. The cups can provide color decor support, generate conversation, function as the sake toast vessel and then be taken home as an memento.





http://www.justforweddings.net/Blue-Bamboo-Sake-Cup-Favors-Set-of-12_i1180
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ten_thousand_years*
http://jcch.com/japanese-traditions.asp

Ceremony Song that Feels Right!

Inspiration for weddings can be found all around us. Last night, my husband was surfing random popular YOUTUBE videos and came across this gem.

It totally has the right celebratory feeling for a ceremony prelude or processional. While it would be wonderful to have Steven Sharp Nelson play (x's 8), it would also work successfully as a download on an IPOD. Check it out for yourself and see if it inspires......,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ry4BzonlVlw

Top Five Wedding Tips - A Bride's reflections

Couples really value foresight when planning their wedding. A few pieces of advice that we share with our clients were very nicely echoed in a blog we came across.

Here are the top five tips from a bride who has been there and done it - along with our additional comments in italics.

1. Book the best photographer you can afford. Pictures will last forever
2. Lay on free booze, but keep it simple. Beer and wine please everyone
3. Prepare something for your first dance. Seriously, rocking back and forth "ala prom style" is not entertaining - skip the first dance in that case.
4. Arrange for something the next day. It helps transition from the high of the wedding day and can prevent post wedding blues
5. Don't drink too much. You will want clarity throughout

To read more on this bride's reflections please follow the link below for additional insights....,

http://www.iamstaggered.com/lastminutepanic/my-five-tips-for-your-perfect-wedding

Groom's attire for Hawaii - what I am liking

Grooms - here are two smart looks for a Hawaiian wedding. Be proactive in your attire and consider vests and lightweight fabrics. It does get warm in the tropical sun and a formal tuxedo, while always elegant, can be stifling. Comfort should be of primary concern but you need to and want to look sharp. By the way - bow ties work well and are very in right now!

Where the groom and groomsmen hang loose.

Having a cigar bar has been a popular addition in Hawaii to the outdoor reception. It also fits well with the continuing interest in having an outdoor lounge area.

Things to think about...,
*custom lighters or matches
*attractive or themed ashtrays
*an area that is located away from the main guest area
*good cigars
*custom cigar band
*drinks that pair well are cognac, scotch, rum & coffee (surprised?)

and some good advice .....
"I have made it a rule never to smoke more than one cigar at a time"
-Mark Twain