Bridesmaid gifts that make the Getting Ready Shots Fun!

The Pre-Wedding Shots aka "Get Ready Shots" are the first chapter of the wedding day photo story. I came across this picture by Jill Thomas on the Style Me Pretty Blog and immediately connected dots to four thoughts.
1. The coordinating robes make for a wonderful photo. 2. Great bridesmaid gift suggestion. 3. Terrific- memento for a bridesmaid.4. Class act for modesty (think photographers, videographers, groomsmen and hotel staff coming into the room).

Two Thumbs up!

photo credit - jillthomasphotography.com
blog source - http://www.stylemepretty.com/gallery/gallery/6132/5

A Luminous Escort Idea

These candles are so elegant and functional. What a clever way to literally shed light on where your wedding guest is seated.
I am hooked on using something unique items like the candles.Having the additional light at the table is always a plus and who can resist keeping a candle that is personalized.



To explore them more go to - http://www.momentsofelegance.com/
Aloha!

Jessica's First Post - Flash Mob Proposal

Flash Mob Proposal idea!

Actions Speak louder than words. In this You Tube clip a song & dance did!
For all you hopeful future grooms-to-be out there, sometimes a cliche comment such as "You mean the world to me" - will win a girl's heart over; not to mention her hand in marriage.

Nam Tran took his girlfriend, Trang, back to the very same spot where they met during their college years at UCLA to propose. To Trang's surprise, the entire UCLA campus in the quad broke out into song & dance as the couple stepped outside. The flash mob crew, Trang's family, and Nam danced to the song, "Can't take my Eyes Off You," by Frankie Valli, as Nam popped the BIG question.

Hope this adorable clip gives you some love-daring ideas and motivates you to express your love!

As seen on You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=c0dGRDvmO54#! and Recycled Bride: http://www.recycledbride.com/blog/author/tracy/


Jessica Reyes, a University of Hawaii intern with Parasol Events, researches current wedding trends as part of her internship. This is her first published post.

Best Wedding Music Video Ever - Save the Date

Last Sunday night, Joanne & Garret rocked it!

We had developed a solid time line that included some basic reception components - the first dance and the slide show. Little did I know how they would put their individual stamp on each. Their first dance was joyfully entertaining. Beginning traditionally and then transitioning into a fun hula routine they were then joined by the wedding party to finish with feisty Tahitian moves.

Then they topped that with their music video slide show.

The song was written for Joanne & Garret by the Groom's brother, Matt Wong. The vocals are Garret with his gorgeous wife, Joanne, coming in and out of the shots. What a voice! And the rest of the cast - well that is the wedding party!

This is a must see -

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xwn-nIdb_ww&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Wow!!!!

Seating Charts - Keeping it Simple

One of the last details for brides and grooms to manage before their wedding is the seating chart. With RSVP's typically arriving at one month prior to the wedding date, there is only a short window of time to arrange the guests and it is critical that it is done with care. Imagine having 78 guests and 8 tables of 10 persons per table to place them on. Now consider, who knows who? What will the table dynamic be with certain mixes of people. Some families want to stick together and there are 7 of them. Just those three questions help you to imagine how thoughtfully one must approach seating. If time is of the essence, consider keeping the communication of the arrangements simple as shown in the hand drawn seating chart. While there are many ways to communicate seating arrangements, if you are short on time it is unnecessary to worry about the presentation. Spend your time on the logistics vs. the fluff. In the end that is much more important.

Wedding Centerpieces - one vase - two looks!

While it is common for clients to consider many details about flowers the vase is often overlooked. See how using the very same vase but just flipping it gives it a whole new utility and look! Color is another under-employed option that can really impact a centerpiece design. I especially like to use colored vases to bring in a color that is not easy to find in flowers.

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

Food trucks and your Hawaii wedding

The entertaining trend of having food trucks prepare speciality foods at your wedding event has reached the islands! If this idea appeals to you then here is an important point to consider - this really only works at a private venue (since hotel venues do not generally allow outside food or beverages).A perfect site on Oahu to accommodate this concept is the ever popular Lanikuhonua. Another good location for having food trucks would be Kualoa Ranch.

While there are a variety of food trucks available, having an ice cream truck remains a top contendor in my book. Keeping ice cream cold at an off-site venue has always been tricky and having the refrigerated truck solves that problem. Think of how fun it would be for this truck to roll up after dinner! Novel, Exciting, Whimsical and Tasty!

Hawaii - Cutting Edge Entertainment that is green

This is for those adventurous couples who want to take a new approach to visual interest and entertainment during their receptions. Right here in Hawaii we have a avant-garde troupe of performance artists with striking costumes and vivid themes. The Iona Contemporary Dance Company! They are available for events and add a magic that is purely artistic.

Here is what the media is saying....

“... a visually stunning, visceral and provocative opera of movement.
Honolulu Star Bulletin

“Destiny is great theatre and worthy of any stage in the world ”
The Maui News

To learn more about Iona
http://www.iona360.com/on_stage/main-stage/destiny

Awesome First Dance Song - Michael Buble- Feeling Good

A" First Dance" should be romantic and exuberant. "Feeling Good" brings it! A song that is tasteful, celebratory and sultry. Perfect for a memorable first dance. To take it to the next level - work with a local dance studio for perfect choreography.
Here are the lyrics and a link to "Feeling Good" by Michael Buble.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yYe6tmrFxbw

"Feeling Good"

Birds flying high
You know how I feel
Sun in the sky
You know how I feel
Breeze driftin' on by
You know how I feel
It's a new dawn
It's a new day
It's a new life
For me
And I'm feeling good

Fish in the sea
You know how I feel
River running free
You know how I feel
Blossom on a tree
You know how I feel
It's a new dawn
It's a new day
It's a new life
For me
And I'm feeling good

Dragonfly out in the sun you know what I mean, don't you know
Butterflies all havin' fun you know what I mean
Sleep in peace when day is done
That's what I mean
And this old world is a new world
And a bold world
For me

For me

Stars when you shine
You know how I feel
Scent of the pine
You know how I feel
Oh freedom is mine
And I know how I feel
It's a new dawn
It's a new day
It's a new life

It's a new dawn
It's a new day
It's a new life

It's a new dawn
It's a new day
It's a new life
It's a new life
For me

Beautiful Hawaiian Beach Wedding Dress

Alfredo Angelo has been selling this dress for a long time and each time I see it I wonder why I have never had a bride who has picked it. Perhaps it is overlooked because the price is so reasonable. Brides often feel that their dress needs to cost alot - not true. A great dress is one that you feel comfortable, beautiful and feminine in. While, beach weddings provide a wonderful backdrop - navigating through sand in a long dress is really sweaty work. A shorter length it smart.

While surfing for the shorter length dresses on the Alfredo Angelo's website this cute mini wedding dress also caught my eye. It is suitable for the modern untraditional bride or for a vow renewal.



Oh - I love weddings!

www.alfredangelo.com

The Green - Top Hawaiian Entertainment on Tour!

It was a privilege to work last August with the Hawaii breakout band "The Green" at Marissa and Jason's wedding. Their album has been named by iTune's as "Best Reggae Album of 2010" and made it onto Billboard's top ten best reggae albums of 2010 list.

Weddings with great entertainment are supremely memorable and fun. If you happen to be a Hawaii destination bride or groom and are considering live entertainment for your reception (or you just need to get a dose of "Aloha" this winter) here is your chance to check them out. The Green's tour schedule can be viewed online at www.thegreen808.com

Picking colors for a Hawaii wedding

There are so many colors to choose from that it can be mind boggling. Alternatively, we are the rainbow state! But seriously, when it comes down to picking the colors for a tropical wedding it is best to limit the palette to 3 or less colors. The big tip is that an amazing palette is developed by mixing and matching hues, shade, tints or tones of those colors!

Here is the low down -
*Hue - bold, cheerful & exciting - these colors progress around the primary color wheel.
*Tints - soothing, soft & romantic - these colors are often referred to as pastels and they actually don't work well in Hawaii's very strong light. Pastels wash out.
*Shades- mysterious, powerful & traditional - these are colors with black added.
*Tones - sophisticated, complex & subtle - these are among my favorites and work well with any of the above.

Working with my clients to develop an inspiration board is exciting and by selecting the right color combinations we are guaranteed a fantastic look! A tool that I use for my own reference is a totally cool blog - www.theperfectpaletteblog.com
Check it out and enjoy creating fresh color ideas!!!!

Pointers for Hair & Make-up on your Wedding Day

Hair & Makeup services are on our "must have" list for your wedding day. At minimum, brides should book these services for themselves. However, it is a gracious gesture for bridesmaids, the bride's mother, and the future mother- in- law who will all appreciate looking their very best for photos too.

Here is our top ten list of pointers for planning/coordinating Hair & Make-up services.
1) Work with a reputable stylist who SPECIALIZES in weddings.
2) Be sure to have a trial session.
3) Use images of make-up and hair styles as a communication tool between you and the stylist.
4) Make sure you have enough space in your hotel room for the stylist/s, photographers and wedding attendants.
5) Be sure to have your payment prepared in advance for services.
6) Discuss parking with stylist - is this an expense the bride needs to cover?
7) If the stylist is putting flowers in the bride's hair be sure the florists delivery time works.
8) Logistics to plan for - adequate table top space for make-up, outlets (for curling irons), and chairs (one for each person being styled).
9) Check & then double check the start and end times for services.
10) Communicate, Communicate, Communicate- if something does not look or feel right let your stylist know right away. Constructive feedback is always desirable.

Hawaii - Do it Yourself - Photo Booth/Bar

There are a myriad ways to produce a customized photo booth and it is a personalized alternative to the standard commercial photo booth. Photo back drops also require less space and since there is no rental cost it is a budget friendly .

Things you will need -
1) A location for the Backdrop
2) A frame for fabric or installation - PVC is light and sturdy
3) Backdrop fabric - deep solid colors work really well and can coordinate with your event. You can also get great vinyl ones customized with a wedding logo*.
3) Good lighting- eliminating the need for flash will improve the photos. Check with your photographer to see if they have studio lights you can use/rent.
4) Digital Camera or a Polaroid (hassle free - no printer necessary)
5) Photographer - although you can ask some guests to volunteer to shoot - Hiring a second photographer for a 2 hours will ensure that no one at your wedding gets locked there
6) Portable Printer w/Photo paper
7) Paper Frames for Photos
8) Accessories are fun - with a Hawaii destination wedding it would be simple to have a prop box that includes leis, hula skirts, hakus, and ukuleles but your options are unlimited and an opportunity to further personalize your event

Weddings are such a wonderful time to interact and connect. Use the Photobooth concept as yet another way to bring everyone together.

*http://www.marilynskeepsakes.com/products.php?criteria=photo+booth

Photobooth Ideas for your Hawaii Wedding

Photobooths continue to be popular in 2011 in Hawaii. Since this trend began several years ago, the Islands have arisen to the demands and there are more photobooth vendors available now then ever. In addition to having more vendors to select from and better availability the pricing has become more competitive.

Some basic tips when considering a photobooth -

* Be sure you have the budget for this. I have heard stories of couples who booked this service early only to find themselves at the end of the planning process resorting to a cash bar (a big no- no) because they have depleted their budget.
* Is there enough space at your venue. The booth has space and power requirements that need to be met.
*When and how long do you want the photobooth on-site. Cocktail hour is a ideal time since it is a casual time for your guests and there is generally no formal program during that time.

Here are three vendors you may want to consider...
www.bluecheesehawaii.com
www.bambooth.com
www.hawaiidigitalphotobooth.com

In addition to the traditional photobooths, look for our next post on alternatives to the booth style that are becoming popular.

Pineapples - a Hawaii Wedding Theme Idea

Pineapples have long been associated with hospitality and with Hawaii. That makes it a natural option for a destination wedding theme. Pulling together a theme is one of the most enjoyable aspects of wedding planning. There are so many ways that you could play with this sweet and sour fruit.

*stationary - escort cards, invitations, welcome bag tags
*food - grilled pineapple, pineapple desserts, drinks, candies, shaved ice
*gifts - pineapple plants, pineapple scented soaps
*colors- greens, greenish blues, blush, yellow
*floral design - baby pineapples in centerpieces, boutonnieres, bouquets

Welcome & Aloha!

Hawaii Venue Spotlight - Lanikuhonua

Lanikuhonua "Where Heaven Meets Earth" is an incredible private estate venue on Oahu. This tropical setting is pristine and ever ready to host an event. As a favorite among both wedding couples and professionals this property, located on the west side of the island, also possesses spectacular sunsets! Other advantages of this outdoor site are on-site bathrooms, functional huts, and an experienced support team (Annette, Auntie Nettie & BoBo).

Having a private estate wedding is undoubtedly a treat. However, be sure you are well prepared for additional wedding costs which are specific to an outdoor venue reception.

*General Equipment - tents for catering & guests , tables, chairs, lighting, etc
*Coordination -because off site outdoor events have a significantly higher level execution of detail (vs. hotel venue) a designated "Day of" coordinator is absolutely a must.
*Service Rentals - plates, ice, coolers, silverware, barware, all linens etc.
*Caterer - menu costs, staffing costs, service charges, equipment rentals (grills, woks,coolers, trash cans, etc)
*Trash Removal - yes, see what I mean about details!

We have several photo galleries online that feature Lanikuhonua. Feel free to follow this link and check out the "Alex" "Kristen" "Malia" "Marissa" "Rosalie" & "Tiffany" events.

http://www.parasolevents.com/hawaiiweddingphotos/

2011 trends for Hawaii Weddings

Today I read that the #1 trend for 2011 is Outdoor Weddings.

That is great news for Hawaii since we are home to some of the most stunning outdoor venues in the World.

Two other trends worth noting are the return of rustic chic and DIY (Do it Yourself). Bonus - they happen to go hand in hand very well.

For a Rustic Chic and DIY ideas start with details that simple & important rather then huge & opulent such as...,

Cakes frosted with buttercream and natural flowers instead of fondant

Decorations that include mason jars or tea tins for flower arrangements/favors

Floor plans with old fashioned long banquet tables instead of rounds

Menus that are traditional & homey with a twist of modern and special attention to quality

To read more go to -http://stylishweddingideas.com/articles/wedding-trends-for-2011