10 Years of SWANKY!!!

The Swanky Soiree team is proud to announce that Swanky is celebrating 10 years this summer! From bigger cars, to a bigger office and warehouse space. Swanky has grown A LOT from when it first stated. Christina and Kourtney started planning and decorating weddings and events when all they had for storage was Christina's loft for office space and garage for warehouse space. Not to mention that Jamie drove a small sedan and Christina had a SUV. Now, Swanky is proud owners of a full show room and office space, 2 large warehouses, a trailer, 2 trucks, and a large SUV. We also asked the owner and operator of Swanky Soiree a few questions... What made you want to start Swanky Soiree Events? I have always had a passion for designing and planning parties. My background in interior design, graphic arts and hospitality helped me navigate into the industry. I come from an entrepreneurial family and always knew I wanted to start a business.   What is your all time proudest moment that Swanky has given you in the last 10 years? I have so many proud moments. When the rental division  first starting taking off it was pretty chaotic. There was no rhythm and structure. I love all the amazing systems we have put into place. I love watching our team grow professionally and individually. We are blessed to have such a talented group.   Did you ever think Swanky would be where it is today? I knew I wanted to create a business with a niche. I had no idea what that niche really was when I first started. The longer I was in the industry the more I realized there was a [...]

By |2023-09-25T10:18:19-04:00September 25th, 2023|Uncategorized, Wedding Inspo|Comments Off on 10 Years of SWANKY!!!

Jessie & Matt’s Wedding at The Resort at theLongboat Key Club

https://vimeo.com/babybluefilm/jessieandmatthew Seriously though!! This one was so special. We loved EVERY second planning with Jessie and Matt. They are some of the sweetest and kindest people we have had the pleasure of planning with. Their wedding took place at the Longboat Key Club in Florida. Jessie and Matt met in Hawaii and have been inseparable ever since. The Longboat Key Club was naturally the perfect venue with all of the lush landscaping, gorgeous and expansive beach and relaxed but upscale experience.  The most important thing to Jessie and Matt was that this day would be the most epic party of the year. They certainly pulled it off. Enjoy this trailer from Baby Blue Films http://www.babybluefilms.com Venue   https://www.opalcollection.com/longboat-key-club/ #destinationwedding #sarasotawedding #weddingplanner #floridawedding #eventrentals

By |2022-11-30T20:21:55-05:00November 30th, 2022|Uncategorized|Comments Off on Jessie & Matt’s Wedding at The Resort at theLongboat Key Club

Shockey / Stenken – Selby Gardens 6/13/21

We are so excited to share Claire & Ryan's wedding day with you! They had the perfect blend of nautical touches in a garden chic background. They began their celebration at St. Michael's Church with traditional vows and blessings for their marriage. Immediately to follow they arrived in style to Marie Selby Botanical Gardens to continue the party.  They had beautiful handmade decor, from origami boat place cards to a giant welcome sign! A sweet ending to the night with their lavish dessert display, and send off made for an exciting evening. A big shout out to all of the vendors that made Claire & Ryan's day stress free! Congratulations again to you both! Venue/Caterer: Selby Gardens - Marie Selby Botanical Gardens & Michael's On East Cake: Nothing Bundt Cakes DJ: Complete weddings + events Florida Rentals: Affairs in the Air, Inc. Photographer: Austin and Shilo Creative Florists: Flowers by Fudgie Officiant/Church: St Michael the Archangel Catholic Church Hair/Makeup: Sarasota Beauty Bar Transportation: Siesta Trolley

By |2021-09-09T15:01:13-04:00September 9th, 2021|Uncategorized, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Shockey / Stenken – Selby Gardens 6/13/21

10/24/20 – King/Barguez – LBKC

Could not have asked for a more beautiful day to watch these two get married at LBKC! From the most touching and emotional first look to the beautiful flower arrangements this wedding was perfect! With a little lighting, draping, and decorating touch added by the Swanky team really made this wedding sparkle! You could feel the love in the air! We wish you the best of luck and sending so guys so much love! Vendors: Venue: Longboat Key Club Planner: Swanky Soiree Events  Rentals: Swanky Soiree Events / US Tent Rental Linens: Linens by the Sea Cake: Cakes by Ron PhotoBooth: Be Scene PhotoBooth by TSL Entertainment  DJ: TSL Entertainment Harpist: Emma The Harpist Photographer: Everance Photography Videographer: The Richards Officiant: Sensational Ceremonies Florist – Beneva Flowers Hair and Makeup: Brides by Kelly Anne #weddingplanner #sarasotaweddings #florals #sarasotarentals #weddingdecoration #photographer

By |2021-05-25T13:21:39-04:00May 25th, 2021|Cake, Centerpiece Ideas, favors, Floral, Party Decor, Photography, Rentals, Sarasota, Table Decor, Uncategorized, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on 10/24/20 – King/Barguez – LBKC

Let’s throw a Summer Soiree

Summer is here which means it's time for fun in the sun with friends and family. From BBQ cookouts, garden parties, family reunions, or even just getting together with friends by the pool.  There is no better time to plan a summer party than now.  Here are some fun ideas to start your summer soiree. Refreshing drinks always cool your summers off. Here are some refreshing drink ideas. -Watermelon Rum Punch         -Strawberry Mango Margaritas         -Cherry Vodka limeade                         Summer drinks are a must for you and the kiddos. Create this fun pool drink for all ages with or without alcohol.                       Adults need to relax and  have fun too. Sit by the pool with a class of Prosecco and throw a popsicle in for flavor.#SignMeUp                   Shish Kabobs are easy and fun to make for any summer time cookout with friends and family.                           Need an idea on how to set up your  next BBQ. Try this fun theme with organized labels and checker patterns.                     Look at this creative yet fun  fruit cart that you can set up for your upcoming events. Simple but exciting for all.                             Looking to throw a awesome pool party? Try this balloon design and top it off with some festive pool rafts.                       Need some extra space for your guest to [...]

By |2021-05-21T12:51:40-04:00May 21st, 2021|Color, DIY, favors, Party Decor, Rentals, Sarasota, Table Decor, Themed Parties, Uncategorized|Comments Off on Let’s throw a Summer Soiree

It’s all about the food…and love!

What do weddings and food have in common? They are all about bringing close family and friends together to celebrate love! Here are a few cool food ideas for your feast on your wedding day! Pre ceremony food and drinks! Cocktail hour!  Dinner ideas! Dessert!  Late Night Meals! 

By |2021-02-16T14:15:24-05:00February 17th, 2021|Uncategorized|Comments Off on It’s all about the food…and love!

Rebecca & Jorge Winter Wonderland Wedding!

This local Florida couple tied the knot in this beautiful, what we like to call winter wonderland wedding!  Starting out the ceremony in a beautiful church with winter inspired flowers throughout. The wedding party starts the march in winter wonderland attire. Then the moment comes with a cathedral length veil, tiara, and stunning off the shoulder ball gown dress!  The look on is face when he saw his bride brought tears to everyone's eyes, you know this is true love!   Then headed for a christmas inspired cocktail hour overlooking the beautiful longboat key beach. Guest were asked to sign ornaments to put on the super creative "sign in christmas tree"! Then off to reception where guest found milsaltow at their place setting, beautiful centerpieces and special touches throughout the ballroom! As the bride and groom were introduced they were ment with a dry ice cloud to dance on for their first dance and fireworks shot up from the DJ booth everytime they kissed! It was truly a magical night!   Thank you to all the vendors that made it happen- Church: St. Peter & Paul Church | Venue: Zota Beach Resort | Photographer & Videographer: Chi Photography | Dj: TLS Entertainment | Transportation: Imperial One Limo | Florist: Oneco Florist| Hair & Makeup: Destiny & Light | Rentals: Linens by the Sea & So Staged Events  

By |2021-02-03T12:43:47-05:00February 3rd, 2021|Floral, Party Decor, Rentals, Sarasota, Set Design, Stationary, Table Decor, Themed Parties, Uncategorized, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Rebecca & Jorge Winter Wonderland Wedding!

Covid Wedding Planning

Remember that you're not alone right now. Many couples have been impacted, countless weddings have been postponed, and we know it's a challenging time for so many impacted by this pandemic. We want to be here for you every step of the way. Because love most certainly isn’t canceled, and that includes the joyful journey of planning your wedding! PLEASE REACH OUT ASAP  FOR PLANNING! OUR CALENDAR IS GETTING FULL SINCE MANY STATES HAVE CLOSED DUE TO COVID-19, MANY COUPLES HAVE CHOSEN TO MOVE THERE WEDDINGS TO SUNNY FLORIDA!   Please check out this link for more additional resources: https://www.theknot.com/content/covid19-help

By |2021-01-26T10:54:56-05:00January 26th, 2021|Uncategorized|Comments Off on Covid Wedding Planning

Spring Wedding Trends 2021!

Without question, the wedding trends for 2021 are going to be influenced by the Coronavirus lockdown of 2020. Weddings are now adopting a ‘go big or go home’ mentality for postponed weddings, this period of time we’ve been stuck in our homes – not able to hug our loved ones – will have a profound effect on how we choose to celebrate. You’ll see on this list both a trend for intimate micro weddings and maxi-weddings where everything from your outfits to your music is oversized and extravagant. That’s because we’ll see two clear paths emerging out of 2020: those who feel the need to scale back and focus on a tight-knit group of nearest and dearest, and those whose passion to celebrate with everyone they care for means a BIG guest list. Expect 2021 to be a bumper year for weddings, thanks to postponed dates from this year. And with each of those couples putting their own personality and flavour on their day, we predict a really surge in creative and unique weddings.   Acts of Gratitude- as a whole, weddings will have an even deeper meaning; an extra layer to the day where there is a moment to stop and reflect on the events of the past 12 months and be grateful for good health and safety, to honour the opportunity of being finally able to celebrate with loved ones. Though time-consuming, a personal note on each guest place setting is a hugely meaningful gesture. Choose special guests, such as grandparents or close friends, to take home one of the flower arrangements at the end of the night. Smaller things include baking special ‘thank you’ treats for each guest, or hiring one or two babysitters [...]

By |2021-01-19T12:18:16-05:00January 19th, 2021|Centerpiece Ideas, Color, DIY, favors, Floral, Invitations, Party Decor, Rentals, Set Design, Stationary, Table Decor, Uncategorized, Weddings|Comments Off on Spring Wedding Trends 2021!

Jessie & Dan – The Resort at Longboat Key Club

A beautiful fall evening was the backdrop for Jess & Dan's wedding. With a classic white look on all aspects of the day, and a majestic sunset it truly was magical. Their family and guests traveled from all around, and enjoyed coming together in an intimate reception to celebrate the couple. With a surprise dance from the bridesmaids and moms to kick off the night, we knew it was going to be an amazing time. We can't express how much fun it was working with the couple and their family during the planning process. Congratulations again to Jess & Dan, may your future together be as beautiful as your sunset was! Venue: The Resort at Longboat Key Club | Photographer: Beth Joy Photography | Videogapher: Samantha Schubert | Officiant: Grace Felice | Rentals: US TENT & Linens by the Sea | Cake: Cakes by Ron | DJ: DeLair Entertainment | Florist: Sue Ellen's Floral Boutique | Hair & Makeup: Brides by Kelly Anne

By |2020-12-04T12:33:40-05:00December 4th, 2020|Uncategorized|Comments Off on Jessie & Dan – The Resort at Longboat Key Club

Caroline & Christopher – Powel Crosley

A glorious day in October made for a perfect setting at the beautiful Powel Crosley Estate in Sarasota, FL. Caroline & Christopher said their vows and prayers for their new marriage at St. Thomas More Church and then went to celebrate with friends and family after. The beautiful arrangements were traditional whites and greens, with satin champagne linens adding gold and black pops made an elegant and classic styled look. Friends and family gathered around the lounge furniture, and shared dance moves on the loggia throughout the night. Making the evening one to remember by all. Thank you to all vendors that made their day special! Venues: St. Thomas More Church & Powel Crosley Estate | Rentals: Palacios Events/US TENT & Linens by the Sea | Florist: Sue Ellens Floral Boutique | Photography & Videography: Chi Photography | Caterer: Puff N Stuff | Entertainment: No Filter | Cake & Desserts: Cakes by Ron | Hair & Makeup: Ana Molinari Salon

By |2020-12-04T11:25:55-05:00December 4th, 2020|Uncategorized, Weddings|Comments Off on Caroline & Christopher – Powel Crosley

Swanky Spotlight: Our Team!

During the COVID-19 pandemic there is a large pause in the event industry for this Spring Season. There are many people that help make Swanky Soiree successful. These people are behind the scenes or on the front-lines and we want to shine our light on them! Swanky Soiree's New Home First let's start with with how much this past year has grown in the Swanky world. We grew from two storage units, a personal garage, and home office to an established building. Our new home is an office front space with a warehouse unit close to downtown Sarasota. There are several hands that helped create an environment that is cozy for our clients, and organized for our team! We are still always making updates and adding to our inventory, the photos below were of the process making it home. You will just have to swing by and see the new look :) Swanky Sweat Club Warehouse days are important before and after our events, we give a lot of time, sweat, and attention to our inventory. Our decor items receive extra love by cleaning, spray painting, organizing, condensing and of course storing proper fragile items when needed. We are thankful when social events let us be creative and mix some of our in house items with brand new items! With newer pieces we always try to set things up prior to event day. You never know if there is a piece missing or it takes longer time to set up than we thought! Videos: Ashley Vs. Wysteria Wreaths & Ashley Staining the Arch These pictures and videos only capture a fraction of time and effort we put in the care and [...]

By |2020-04-21T14:52:49-04:00April 28th, 2020|Uncategorized|Comments Off on Swanky Spotlight: Our Team!

Paws-itively Cute Pet Wedding Ideas

Much like your future partner your pet is always there for you. That's why we've rounded up some of our favorite pet wedding ideas that will pay homage to your best furry friend during your special day. Believe it or not, there are lots of ways to do so. Please see below: Have your pet accompany you down the aisle or act as your ring bearer or flower girl. If that's not enough for you, some brides have even "asked" their pets to be their bridesmaids or maid of honor and stand with them tall and proud at the altar. Now depending on where you're having your event, they may not allow pets. If that's the case, there are still plenty of memorable dog wedding ideas that will honor your four-legged friend:   Incorporate them in table numbers, place cards, or other stationery. Send your guests home with "doggie bags" either of candy for them or we have even seen actual dog biscuits for your guest furry friends! Signature Drinks are a great way to incorporate your furry friend! With so many dog wedding ideas to choose from, you may just end up including all of them, and we fully support that!

By |2020-03-05T13:34:10-05:00April 9th, 2020|Uncategorized, Weddings|Comments Off on Paws-itively Cute Pet Wedding Ideas

Going Green Weddings! We Love it!

Going green doesn't mean you have to compromise on your big day! Your wedding day can still be  truly personal, moving, and sustainable celebration that people will remember for years. You may even open a few eyes in the process...Check out a couple ways you can Go Green on your big day without having to compromise your dream wedding day ideas!   Source locally Almost anything can be found locally! Food and drinks are a great place to start. If there's a good brewery down the road use that beer instead. Using unnecessary resources trucking in a keg of bud light from who knows where! 2.This goes for caters too! Not only are you helping the earth but your guest are going to be impressed and the food will be so fresh! 3.Source Local flowers in season- These flowers will not have to travel far from home to make your day beautiful   4.The perfect eco-invites-  Do your research and if you don't want to send out an E-invite which is the most eco friendly you can always use recycled, handmade, or tree-free invitations

By |2020-03-05T12:42:17-05:00March 26th, 2020|Uncategorized|Comments Off on Going Green Weddings! We Love it!

Non-Traditional Wedding Dress? Maybe it’s for you!

White wedding dresses are classic, but they're far from the only option. Nowadays brides are getting more and more creative, opting for wedding dress styles and shades that are as one-of-a-kind as they are. Non-white hues bring vibrancy, personality, and intrigue to any wedding, and are great for the bride who wants to stand out. Let's start out with the the idea of a white dress with some pizzazz and new styles! Second we move into  flowers for all the happy feelz... Now lets get dark and romantic... N0w for the grand finally! We give you COLOR and SPARKLE!

By |2020-03-05T12:07:15-05:00March 19th, 2020|Trending, Uncategorized, Weddings|Comments Off on Non-Traditional Wedding Dress? Maybe it’s for you!

Predicted Wedding Trends for 2020

Happy New Year Swanky Friends & Family! Another year in front of us, and boy 2020 is already looking so busy! We've had some fun events the past month, and we are starting to see some trends for this year! First, let's start off with some Fashion Trends coming up this year! We are starting to see more of the off shoulder dresses and more low cut back dresses! We're also starting to see colored dresses may be taking a stand this year. All though traditional white will never die, it's nice to see some colorful options out there. Eclectic Styles & Bold Colors are starting to become a normal trend with weddings! We have a feeling 2020 will be the year of sages, blues, with hot pink and orange pops! Say goodbye to the normal whites, blushes, and gold and say hello to something more bold and daring! Online save the dates and wedding invitations have been taken off the past few years. Couples seem to enjoy the tech savvy option to get information out to their friends and loved ones! Online invites is the stepping stone of a bigger "Go Green/Environmentally Friendly" Wedding! Several businesses are available to feature farm to table or all organic cuisine. The options are endless from repurposed bouquets and even eco-friendly wedding dresses to promote a healthy planet and marriage! Wanting to add something extra to your bar service at your wedding? We've seen the popular signature drinks, or themed bars. However, we are noticing there are several different bar displays that add something special and unique to each event. From a keg wall, to a hedge wall that serves champagne, the [...]

By |2020-02-10T12:02:10-05:00February 10th, 2020|Uncategorized, Weddings|Comments Off on Predicted Wedding Trends for 2020

Delicious Decor for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving Day is a great time to take a break and enjoy some food with the family. Everyone has different Thanksgiving traditions, especially when it comes to traditional menu items. But, here at Swanky Soiree we don't just focus on the food, we focus on the table-scape! It's a great time to be surrounded by family, friends, food and decor! Break out the specialty table cloths, runners, and china for a table to remember!   Table Runner's Delight Depending on your style we have shared some of our favorite table runners. Handmade and quilted runners from family is always the best, but creating an autumn feel with burlap, oranges, reds, burgundy's, and browns can make it more delicious. Have your table runners compliment your table, or your flatware by pulling in certain colors, or textures. This ideally will get covered with plates full of food, and centerpieces so sometimes the more simple the better. Centerpieces to Gather Around The ideas and creative pieces are endless! The larger your centerpieces, the more you will need a buffet table on the side for food placement during dinner. Using nature's wonderful elements can bring the Harvest time to your table. Colored candle sticks are trending right now, adding some of these to your table is a great way to pop some color in. Fancy vases used for candles, or wine glasses used for candles welcomes an ambiance for an intimate family dinner. Using pumpkins, gourds, fall leaves, branches, and acorns are great fillers to add to any lantern, bowl, or vase for an easy piece. Harvesting Your Flatware Passed down family chinaware could be a staple at your place and heeds tradition always for [...]

By |2019-08-29T10:56:36-04:00November 27th, 2019|Holiday Party, Party Decor, Uncategorized|Comments Off on Delicious Decor for Thanksgiving

Venue Spotlight: The Ringling Museum/ The Ca’ d’Zan

Are you looking for a unique and historic place to get married in Sarasota? The Ringling Museum and The Ca'd'Zan is one of your best options. You can't go wrong with any of their unique spaces to host your ceremony and reception. John Ringling is famously known for his circus entertainment. You won't find jugglers and clowns (unless you want too) at your wedding here. You'll find beautiful art pieces and architecture that John Ringing and his wife Mable built long ago. Ceremony Spaces Hosting your ceremony in part of the Courtyard, the mansion's front door, or it's terrace facing the bay are all beautiful options. Each space creates it's own artistic view for your guests to enjoy. Reception Spaces Most of their events here occur at The Ca'd' Zan or the courtyard in the midst of it's art museum. Both are large out door spaces with beautiful views no matter where you look.   Photo Opportunities All though each set up for every space is different and stylized, the photos you can take are endless. Word of advice when booking a historic location as this, they do require photo permits. Make sure you're rental package includes photography rights to get those amazing shots you want!

By |2019-08-19T16:55:23-04:00November 22nd, 2019|Sarasota, Uncategorized, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Venue Spotlight: The Ringling Museum/ The Ca’ d’Zan

Wedding Misfits & Mistakes

We plan for months, initiate extra help, and pray that all goes well. However, as planners we always consider troubleshooting day of, and have one or two extra plans in the work just in case THAT something does happen. In this post, you will see some common problems we see day of an event that can happen. Don't stress when reading! There are always back up plans and conversations that are to be had prior to your day.   Weather / Outside Reception Plan This conversation is a big one for our outdoor venues and nontraditional weddings. Don't look at the weather too far out in advance as it is most likely going to change (especially in Florida). Make sure you have a back up plan with your venue and coordinator. Also, make sure you know the cut off time to make a rain call, some ask for it 48 hours in advance while others will let you make the call up to 5 hours before your wedding begins. Just remember, old myths say rain is a sign of good luck on your wedding day! Take advantage of a beautiful picture with your photographer in the rain! You can make sure your guests are comfortable, by providing cute umbrellas for them. Have a good attitude and your guests will feed on the good vibes. On the flip side, it may be super sunny and not a cloud in sight! With destination weddings outside, a good idea is to have a water station of some sort, or a cute bucket of sunscreen available. If the reception is in the evening and outside, a small bug repellent station is a great perk to have! You [...]

By |2019-08-07T16:12:01-04:00October 20th, 2019|Uncategorized|Comments Off on Wedding Misfits & Mistakes

Finding Fun in Finding Your Seat

One of the biggest questions Swanky gets, is should we do assigned seating or not? The answer (for us at least) will always be a big YES! From a planners point of view, there are several issues that can arise when not doing assigned seating. The biggest issue, is it brings back the feeling of "cliques" where some guests want to sit together, and there might not be enough seats set up at that specific table. This ultimately makes guests feel left out, or lost and uncomfortable finding a seat with people they may not know. The venue and caterers work hard with planners and decorators to get table displays beautiful. When one guest wants to move to another table, it off sets the element and symmetry of that tablescape. When this happens, the catering or venue staff have to stop what they are doing and make sure to move everything. This can then set your timeline off by 10-15 minutes! Bite the bullet, and do your guests a solid by creating a seating chart or place cards with their table assignment. No need to tell them they need to sit at seat 1, just table 1. If you need help or inspiration with creating a seating chart or place cards, Swanky is here to help! Here are some of our favorite seating charts and place cards we have done or seen in the past.   Mirrored & Acrylic Seating Chart Vintage or Framed mirrors are the best to display. They have a classy and elegant touch to them. You can use vinyl sticker that peel right off afterwards, or chalk markers that easily wash off with cleaning supplies. The acrylic slabs have become more [...]

By |2019-07-19T16:08:28-04:00September 28th, 2019|Uncategorized|Comments Off on Finding Fun in Finding Your Seat