Floral Shop vs. Wedding Floral Designer

Because I did my own centerpieces I just needed bouquets, boutonnieres, and corsages for my personal flowers. I worked with a regular florist who delivered arrangements,  and because I always loved their work I figured they could do what I needed. Yes, they did what I needed but it wasn’t the same as a wedding floral designer. First, they did exactly what I said. I know that sounds weird, but as I said before, I was young and had no idea what I was doing. I wish I were offered suggestions and some creativity. I now have learned that there are floral designers who specialize in only wedding flowers. Not to mention, after working with several incredible designers across Central Florida, I see that it would have been more cost effective to work with them as well.

Who Cares About Linens? You Will!

I knew nothing about linens or even thought of covering tables or chairs. My caterer offered the standard white cloths with a colored bow so I went with that. Little did I know what effect linens have on a room. I always tell my clients that linens are a cost effective and easy way to transform an entire room  if selected wisely.  It takes a wedding from plain to fun or chic or formal (depending on your overall theme). And also in my planning experience I’ve learned that if I had a planner through the process she could have helped me find better linen options resulting in a more appealing look for less money.

Smart Menu Planning

My caterer was fantastic and I still love to use them to this day. I had a brunch reception that was more for eating and mingling than partying. I went with a few heavy appetizer type options, which after I started planning weddings, I learned can be one of the most expensive options. I could have saved at least 1/3 of my food budget by changing to a meal. It’s good to talk to the caterer about how the prices change based on the type of food you serve as it relates to quantities. If you don’t ask, then they often aren’t willing to share. You mention appetizers because you think they’re cheaper; why would they suggest anything else? Also, by working with a planner through the process, she will work with the caterer directly to put together options that fit your style, wishes and budget.

Tomorrow, I’ll be sharing insights on entertainment and weather as it relates to attire so please check back in.

Smart Planning for a Simple Wedding

As a wedding planner, people often ask what my wedding was like. Well, I wasn’t a planner when I got married so I didn’t have the knowledge that I have now. My wedding was special in its own way, and I wouldn’t change it for anything, but I did learn from my experience and use the knowledge gained to help brides plan smarter.

I, as most brides, had no idea what I was doing. Not only was I young, but my family and friends didn’t have any recent experience planning a wedding so they went along with whatever I wanted.  While it all happened in the end, I see a lot of things that I could have done that would have been much easier and much more cost effective.

I have a lot of points that I will be sharing over the next few days. I hope you enjoy!

When DIY becomes A DIY Don’t

Trying to keep things on a tight budget, I went for the DIY way for everything. I thought of myself as very crafty and enjoyed projects so I found it only  natural to want to do everything myself. I did the Save the Dates, invitations, well wish cards, place cards, favors, bubbles and centerpieces all myself. For the stationary I ordered special paper and printed everything on my printer. Overall, it turned into a frustrating project that did not warrant the quality results I wished for. The paper kept jamming in the printer, the ink would run, it wouldn’t print right, the paper wasn’t cut straight, and my ribbon would fray and the issues continued with each of the projects. Today you can find beautiful stationery options at your local stationery retailer, online, and through custom stationery designers that will fit your budget, and save you the time and frustration I experienced.

Meaningful Favors & Gifts

My favors were candles with a DIY label and ribbon on them. As I think back I’m not sure what the purpose of the candle was. There are all kinds of favors,  but I’ve learned through my planning experience that the best favors are ones that have a meaning and purpose. Something someone can eat is always great! Or consider something that tells part of your story. Think of what you like to do together or consider something that goes with your overall wedding theme. For example, a recent favorite of mine was a display of baseballs signed by the bride and groom because the groom was a baseball player. Another client decided to do an ice cream station from Cold Stone because she and her fiancé went there every Friday night. When you start planning,  just remember to keep things personal, fun, and relevant. And as you go about your daily life something will come to mind.

Centerpieces

My wedding centerpiece was a glass bowl with a floating candle and colored rocks on the bottom and it all sat on top of a mirror. I think I was looking for something cheap and I didn’t see it as anything important. Now, on the contrary, I understand that a centerpiece makes a large statement when it comes to the overall look and decor of the reception. Also, I have learned that a floral centerpiece can be cost-conscious and beautiful. Afterward, I was stuck with a bunch of bowls that had burn spots from the candles and sat in storage where half of them broke. A meeting with a florist is complimentary, so it doesn’t hurt to sit and talk to them about what you would like, just be clear about how much you have to spend.

Tomorrow, I’ll share my lessons learned on flowers, linens, and catering.

Preparing, Relationships, Engagements and People for Marriage

There are so many things to plan and do. As you prepare for your new life together, it becomes so important to develop a spiritual basis in your lives with practical applications regarding marriage. First Orlando has the strongest, most comprehensive help for seriously dating, pre-engaged, and engaged couples in Central Florida. Hundreds of couples have benefited from what they have learned.

The course is comprehensive and focused on communication, finances, personality dynamics, love languages, conflict resolution, and so much more. You will walk away with a better understanding of your relationship and a foundation upon which to build a wonderful marriage.

You can read more about  the course and find contact information here.  The class will fill up quickly, so register today.

Rustic Folding Chair (Image Source)

Rustic Folding Chair (Image Source)

Louis Style Chair with Woven Back (Image Source)

Versaille Chair (Image Source)

Versaille Chair (Image Source)

Bentwood  Chair (Image Source)

Ornate Garden Chair (Image Source)

Benches for Guest Seating (Image Source)

Benches for Ceremony Seating (Image Source)

Bistro Style Chairs (Image Source)

Mixed Chairs for Guest Seating (Image Source)

Mixed Chairs for Guest Seating (Image Source)

That wraps up Wedding Chair Week.  The Uniquely Yours planning team wishes you all a wonderful Labor Day weekend. Go fill it with some great memories!

]]> http://uywedding.com/blog/?feed=rss2&p=2085 0 http://uywedding.com/blog/?p=2061 http://uywedding.com/blog/?p=2061#comments Thu, 02 Sep 2010 13:30:59 +0000 Karry http://uywedding.com/blog/?p=2061 The ghost chair is a uniquely modern interpretation of the classic Louis XV armchair.  Designed by Phillippe Starck, the chair has been a favorite among interior designers and only recently made its debut in the events industry.

The chairs are quite versatile. Well suited to both formal and informal occasions, the ghost chair is available in a variety of colors.  The original version of the ghost chair is the Louis chair featuring arms and a medallion back.

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A more feminine version, Victoria, is now available as well. It is armless and has a slimmer profile.  The Victoria is also available in a rainbow of colors.

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The ghost chair really does set off a table-setting, and is sure to cause quite a stir among guests.

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Don’t you love how the chairs pick up the color of the ambient lighting in the room?

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We think a great way to personalize the ghost chair would be to attach a removable transfer to the back such as a monogram, your wedding motif, or pattern.  The ghost chair is available to rent regionally, but only via a limited number of providers.  Prices are on the higher end, ranging from $30 to $60 per chair. That said, we have noted summer specials this year offering the chairs for as low as $15 with a rental of 150 or more chairs.

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Trademarked and patented by the Chameleon Chair Collection, the chameleon chair is the ultimate in designer seating, specifically engineered for comfort and style.  (Images Source)

The chameleon chair’s versatility is unlike any other. It is available in a variety of colors and finishes with decorative metal backs or wood backs.  The cushions are interchangeable and the backs support a variety of  toppers. Wildflower Linen has created an incredible selection of toppers and skirts for the chameleon chair. (Images Source)

Sophisticated Shimmer

We love the feathers!

Charmingly sweet and delicate! Great style for a bridal shower or luncheon.

Classically Elegant

Sheer  Beauty

Unique

His and Hers

Color In Ruffles

Glamorous ( This is a personal favorite)

Perfect for a seaside fete.

This chair has it all – luxury, style, and gorgeous couture accoutrements. I absolutely adore this chair and hope to see it incorporated into some of our future wedding designs.  Hint, hint to all of our Uniquely Yours brides!

Garden Chair with Floral Swag

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Garden Chairs for Ceremony with Floral and Fabric Embellishment

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Bamboo Folding Chairs in Rustic Setting

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This chair is available in a variety of colors, though we prefer the more nature neutral brown, mahogany, and bamboo varieties.  This chair is best used for seating at outdoor ceremonies and receptions.  If you are considering using this chair at an indoor venue, please note that it is best suited for more informal occasions such as a brunch or cake and punch reception.

Brown Garden Chairs in Outdoor Reception Setting Under Tent Form

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Brown Garden Chairs At Outdoor Reception

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Dress up the chair with ribbon embellishments, wood or paper initials, sweet sentiments on hanging signs, touches of floral, or even fabric sashes if you desire.  Prices on these chairs vary regionally from $2.00 to $8.00 per chair.

Today we bring you the chiavari chair.  The chiavari chair hails from the the Italian city of  Chiavari, between Genoa and the Cinque Terre.  Over time the chair has moved from fine dining rooms to grand ballrooms, and is a popular choice today for both indoor and outdoor affairs. You can read more about the history of the chiavari  chair by checking out a recent post from one of our favorite blogs, Design Sponge.

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Gold Chiavari Chair in Classic Setting

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Fruitwood Chiavari Chair for Oceanfront Ceremony

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Gold Chiavari in Formal Reception Setting

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Mahogany Chiavari Chair for Tented Reception

The chiavari is available in a rainbow of solid colors and even lucite which is often called the “ice“ chiavari.  Even though they are a popular rental item, they may not be found in many areas.  Rates will vary regionally and may cost anywhere from $6.00 to $20.00 a chair depending upon color and quantity required.

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Pink Chiavari for Intimate Dinner Party

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Lucite Chiavari Chair for Ceremony In Industrial Setting

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Lucite Chiavari Chairs in Modern Reception Setting

Whether you decide to use the chair for a bridal shower, ceremony, or reception, please keep your guests comfort in mind.  Sitting in the chairs for an extended period of time can become uncomfortable, so be sure your provider offers a substantial cushion made specifically for the chair.  You can also find a variety of cushion covers to suit your color palette.

Though the chairs make a beautiful furnishings statement on their own, you may want to add some embellishment.  We have used floral and ribbon trimmings on the sides and backs of the chairs for several clients.  And we have sourced a variety of chiavari chair caps and skirts for other clients.

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Gold Chiavari Chair with Floral Chair Cap

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Gold Chiavari with Lamour Chair Sashes

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Gold Chiavari with Floral and Ribbon Accents

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Chiavari Chair with Lace Chair Caps

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Chiavari Chair with Sheer Scroll Chair Cap and Tassel

Given the colors and accent options, the chiavari chair is an excellent choice that suits many venues and design schemes.  Interested in chiavari chair sources for your wedding? Give us a call (321.454.2144 or 407.267.3458) or send an email our way (info@uywedding.com). We would be happy to help!

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Happy Shopping!

Before I started down my own wedding planning career path, I spent several months researching and learning all I could about the industry.  I also spent time interviewing and shadowing a diverse group of wedding professionals in order to see the business through their eyes and their individual crafts.  This is a tough industry, one that is focused on one of the most important celebrations in the life of a couple.  Organization and communication are critical skills necessary for navigating the planning process with clients.  You have to be able to juggle many tasks at once and handle issues with tact and grace.  Then there is the entire business side to worry about as well.  Knowing how to write a business plan, file for corporate status, set up an accounting system, write a legally binding contract, establish a workable and affordable start-up marketing plan, and networking are all very important to the success of your endeavor.

Fortunately, there are internationally recognized professional associations and organizations  committed to building the profession through certified instruction and adherence to a professional code of ethics and business practices. One of these organizations is the Association of Certified Professional Wedding Consultants (ACPWC).  I am a proud graduate of the ACPWC program and earned my Professional Wedding Consultant credentials through the ACPWC.

Through training by experienced professionals, continuing education programs and an ongoing industry recognized certification process, ACPWC provides uniformity and accountability thereby ensuring business integrity is maintained and supported well beyond the original training process. ACPWC graduates are prepared to start their own businesses after completing the training and quickly become leaders in their community of wedding and special event professionals. Since its establishment in 1990, the Association of Certified Professional Wedding Consultants (ACPWC) has set the standard for excellence in wedding consulting nationwide offering the only professional training and certification program for wedding consultants registered by the Department of Consumer Affairs.

Courses are offered throughout the year across the country, and one of those courses is coming to the Central Florida area.

The Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront is hosting the next course August 2 – 6.  You can learn more about the course offerings by contacting The Association of Certified Professional Wedding Consultants at 408.227.2792 or by visiting the website at www.acpwc.com.  A quality, recognized educational program is one of the smartest investments you can make as you embark on a new career.