Favors that your guests will actually take!

And as a planner, at the end of the night it is sad seeing all of those favors go in the trash because guests did not want to take them. But, here are some favor ideas that your guests will be scouting the tables at the end of the night to take the favors from those dancing! COOKIES! CANDLES! CANDY! KOOZIE! SUCCULENTS! BOTTLE OPENER! LOTTERY TICKETS! DONATIONS! This is a new and evolving trend, but instead of doing favors, a couple may opt into donating to their favorite charity with the money that would have partaken into their guests receiving favors!

By |2024-03-26T12:11:05-04:00March 26th, 2024|favors, Wedding Inspo|Comments Off on Favors that your guests will actually take!

Why Welcome Bags Are The Best Favors!

You may be wondering, what exactly is a welcome bag? Well, a welcome bag is a treat given to guests typically at a welcome party or dinner. Inside the welcome bag are little trinkets and necessities that they might need throughout the wedding day. A few items guests and planners love to see in welcome bags are... ~ Itineraries (for your guest to know exactly where to be and when)! ~ Mini sunscreens (so your guest do not show up red on the wedding day)! ~ Advil packets (to help the day after the wedding)! ~ Water bottles (to stay hydrated)! ~ Liquid IV's (to stay even more hydrated)! ~ Chips (for munchies)! ~ Koozies (these can be customized so cute)! ~ Sunglasses (these can also be customized so cute)! ~ Local favorite treats!

By |2024-02-09T13:30:17-05:00February 9th, 2024|favors, Wedding Inspo|Comments Off on Why Welcome Bags Are The Best Favors!

5-29-21 – Katie & Daniel – Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

Katie and Daniel were finally able to get married after pushing it back do to the pandemic. They had a sweet baby girl during the pandemic and she was able to be part of her parents special day. They picked the perfect day to get married at Marie Selby Gardens. You could feel the love in the air at this beautiful wedding. Congratulations Katie and Daniel we were so happy to be part of your magical day! Vendor Info: Lead Planner: Christina Harris Swanky Soiree DJ: Wayne Delar Entertainment Cake: Cakes by Ron Caterer: Michael’s on East Florist: Flowers By Fudgie Hair Stylist: Brides by Kelly Anne + Co. Make-up Artist: Brides by Kelly Anne + Co. Reception Venue: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Videographer: Storybook Films Officiant:  A Wedding with Grace Rentals: Affairs In The Air Photographer: Limelight Photography

By |2021-06-22T11:09:58-04:00June 22nd, 2021|Cake, Centerpiece Ideas, favors, Floral, Miss to Mrs, Photography, Rentals, Sarasota, Venues, Wedding Video, Weddings|Comments Off on 5-29-21 – Katie & Daniel – Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

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

5/1/21- Hill/Sims- LBKC

This wedding was right out of the ocean and up on the beach ceremony! This wedding came together so well with super cute sea touches around ever corner! Swanky teamed draped and twinkled and brought the sea into the reception ball room at LBKC Spike and tees.  It was also filled with love and old memories! We love the all the details this wedding has to offer and we think you will to! Vendors: Venue: Longboat Key Club Planner/Rentals: Swanky Soiree Events  Cake: Cakes by Ron DJ: Jam all day Photographer: Limelight Photography Officiant: Grace Lutheran  Florist - Flowers by Fudgie Hair and Makeup- Ana Molinari Salon      

By |2021-05-20T15:27:29-04:00May 20th, 2021|Arch, Centerpiece Ideas, Color, DIY, favors, Invitations, Party Decor, Photography, Rentals, Table Decor, Themed Parties, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on 5/1/21- Hill/Sims- LBKC

3/20/21- Wood/Skibicki- LBKC

This wedding is very close to our hearts! We did it, planning with covid-19 was hard; yet with determination and organization and positive vibes from our bride and groom. We are happy to say with by far is one of our favorite weddings!  From the classy ceremony on LBKC harbor side lawn to the amazing geometric and creative seating chart this wedding even blew us away! We were so happy to be apart of this special day and so happy how it turned out!   Vendors: Venue- Longboat Key Club Planner/Rentals- Swanky Soiree Events Photographer -  Everence Photography  Video- The Richards  DJ- DJ Iron Mike Transportation- Siesta Key Trolley Officiant-  St Armond Church Florist-  Oneco Florist  Cake- Cakes Plus Hair and Make up- Destiny and Light  Room Block -Embassy suites and Aloft   

By |2021-05-20T12:38:07-04:00May 20th, 2021|Cake, Centerpiece Ideas, Color, DIY, favors, Floral, Party Decor, Photography, Rentals, Sarasota, Table Decor, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on 3/20/21- Wood/Skibicki- LBKC

Chelsea and Blake- 3/13/21- LBKC

What a perfect day to have a beautiful Florida Beach wedding! The green wall seating chart was so much fun for the swanky team to create for this couple and it set the mood for this high class Florida inspo wedding! We wish you all the luck in the world! So happy to have Been part of your special day!     Vendor Team Coordinator and rentals : Swanky Soiree Events  Flowers: Mary Nell Chasdsey Transportation: Siesta Key Trolly  Band: Phase 5 band Hair and Make up: Brides by Kelly Ann Cake: Cakes by Ron  Venue: LongBoat Key Club  Photos: K and K Photo & The Amy Fitch Wh

By |2021-04-20T11:47:29-04:00April 20th, 2021|Arch, Cake, Centerpiece Ideas, DIY, favors, Floral, Invitations, Rentals, Sarasota, Set Design, Stationary, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Chelsea and Blake- 3/13/21- LBKC

Greg and Alyssa Valentines Wedding 2/14/21

We had so much fun celebrating the love of these two on a Classy Valentines Day themed wedding at Zota Beach resort! It couldn't have been a more romantic setting with the weather being perfect; ceremony beach set up the heavens gave us a perfect pink sunset that bounced off all the beautiful accents of red roses, flower crowns and velvet suits!     Wedding Planner : Swanky Soiree Florist:Flowers By Fudgie  Venue and Cater: Zota Beach Resort  Transportation: Siesta Key Trolly  Photographer: Janay Evalisce  Videographer: Rob Chiola

By |2021-03-03T14:08:34-05:00March 3rd, 2021|Arch, Dessert, favors, Floral, Holiday Party, Photography, Rentals, Sarasota, Set Design, Table Decor, Trending, Venues, Wedding Video, Weddings|Comments Off on Greg and Alyssa Valentines Wedding 2/14/21

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!

The Local Favorite’s for Gifts & Favors

For the destination wedding, it's always a great idea to incorporate some local items and pieces in your event. Most of your guests may be traveling from different places and it's nice to share with them a local favorite. You can incorporate these items in welcome bags, wedding favors, or add them as a decor piece for your event. It's great to provide them with fun things to do while visiting them in the area but even better when they get to take something home with them. Local Shops The Sarasota/Bradenton area is known for it's art festivals, and farmers markets all around the area. You can stroll through one of the festivals in downtown or stroll through the local stores at St. Armand's Circle. There are tiny local shops to get great ideas for favors or gifts. Some of the more well known items, are Sea Salt Florida and Banyan Tree Chocolate & Cafe. Local Farms In the state of Florida we are know for our citrus fruit trees. In this wonderful climate you can find lemon, orange, and mango trees just about anywhere. This makes for great home made local goodies such as honeys, jams, juice, and more! One of the most popular places for this area is Mixon Farms in Bradenton. This farm specializes in anything homemade regarding fruits straight from their farm! Local Museums Many of our couples we work with decide to host their wedding at a botanical garden, museum, or aquarium. What better way to intertwine something local, educational, and unique by incorporating gifts or small items from that museum. Some of our favorites we've worked at are Marie Selby Botanical Garden & The Mote [...]

By |2019-08-21T14:57:09-04:00November 12th, 2019|favors, Sarasota|Comments Off on The Local Favorite’s for Gifts & Favors

A Fairy Tale Wedding

We had done a Nerdy Nuptials post recently, but what we didn't add in there was Disney themed ideas. There is so many different ways to incorporate Disney into your wedding. Whether it's all the movies or just one, we felt that it deserved it's own blog post. From magical venues in the area, to silly decor items and displays you can add just a touch, or add it all! If you are wanting a wedding at the actual Cinderella Castle in Disney World be prepared for the following. In order to have your ceremony in front of the castle, which allows for just 100 people and a ceremony time of 9:30 a.m. sharp, there is a $25,000 minimum fee. That's excluding food and beverage and other expenditure minimums, which could total up to $75,000 or more. We find that most of our couples don't have that large of a budget for their wedding day. Instead, here are some fun ideas you can do for your wedding!    Draping & Lighting I started this one first because there are millions of pictures on our website, pinterest, and facebook where you can see how beautiful lights and chiffon draping are. For a magic touch and feeling a ceiling piece with draping and chandeliers can make quite the difference in ambiance. Add a touch of colored uplights around the room and it makes truly unforgettable.   Centerpieces With Disney, you can focus on one movie or all of them. Each table can be a different centerpiece based on a different movie. Adding little items like gold or silver mercury votive candles, and candelabras can make an elegant touch. Also, beautiful flowers that coincide with the [...]

By |2019-07-25T15:57:03-04:00October 12th, 2019|Centerpiece Ideas, Dessert, favors, Party Decor, Table Decor, Themed Parties, Weddings|Comments Off on A Fairy Tale Wedding

Acceptable & Exceptional Bridal Party Gifts

You are planning a wedding, it is getting costly and the dough is running low. However, you still want to thank your bridal party and parents for being involved. Ultimately, this is a decision that shouldn't be made lightly but your wallet shouldn't be emptied out either. If you have a large bridal party and two or more sets of parents, getting everyone gifts can add up quick. There are plenty of meaningful and cost effective presents that show gratitude for the help your bridal party is giving. The average cost for a gift through polls and other sources have been found to be around $75-$100. If your budget is on the lower scale of those costs, that is ok!  No matter what, I'm sure your bridesmaids and groomsmen will love anything you give them! Here are some options that may be best for you and your bridal party. Jewelry A sparkly thank you can make any one feel special, your bridesmaids especially. If you plan on having them wear your gift on your wedding day, be sure to tell them, or hint to them ahead of time. Moms and bridesmaids may already be spending quite a bit to take part. So a little something shiny to wear, can go a long way! Especially with photos! On Etsy, you can find any item similar to these from $5-$30 each. Fashion & Accessories Most of the time, the ladies will be getting ready in the same room at the same time. Possibly sharing laughs, music, and mimosas as well. While getting ready, something comfy to wear like a robe or t-shirt with a special custom title can be the perfect thing. Matching gear is [...]

By |2019-07-19T16:07:24-04:00September 5th, 2019|DIY, favors, Uncategorized|Comments Off on Acceptable & Exceptional Bridal Party Gifts

National S’mores Day

Did you know that on August 10th it is National S'mores Day! The beloved dessert that is a classic to have on camping trips, or bonfire parties. There are plenty of weddings thrown in rustic wooded areas, or even in a backyard. Is your party venue not out doors? No worries,  take a spin off the traditional cake and provide s'mores instead! Some outdoor venues will have open fire pits where you can have a station set up. If not, be creative and provide candles, or tiki torches around the station for small roasting.   If roasting marshmallows is hard to have available for your event, incorporate them as favors. Cute little bags put together with the necessary items and a clever thank you tag is all you need!   Don't forget about adding some fun and clever signage to your event. There are always silly puns to intertwine with your event! Signage can make for great photo opportunities, and sometimes the little details really can make the difference that sets other events apart.   Have a Happy S'more Day from Swanky Soiree! I might just go roast one myself now.

By |2019-07-13T09:31:01-04:00August 10th, 2019|Dessert, favors, Party Decor, Weddings|Comments Off on National S’mores Day

National Tequila Day

Did you know, on the National Day Calendar, July 24th is National Tequila Day?! This calendar has been published with some wacky holidays. However, here at Swanky, we love any excuse to celebrate! Here are some ideas to mix in some tequila to add to any celebration on that date! Other than Margaritas, there are other specialty drinks to offer to your guests at your event. Tequila Sunrises are good for destination weddings on the beach. If you are having a brunch reception Bloody Maria's are similar to Bloody Mary's, instead they incorporate tequila instead of vodka!   Tequila themed favors and place cards are a great way to get the party started. Your guests can indulge in some fun before the main event even starts! But, your guests shouldn't be the only ones getting their tequila on. Some wedding ceremonies have included a "marriage unity" shot as part of their process.   As always, you can't have a party with tequila and not have some fun signage. Small signs with amusing sayings can be great for photo opportunities or making sure the vibe is just right. Don't forget to drink responsibly!

By |2019-07-13T09:06:59-04:00July 24th, 2019|favors, Themed Parties, Weddings|Comments Off on National Tequila Day

Laura & Fletchers Wedding at the Sarasota Yacht Club

Congratulations Laura & Fletcher! What a beautiful bride!! Your Wedding day had elegant touches of details from beginning to end! We had such a great time working with you to make a night that had your friends and family smiling from ear to ear. #ACrushOnRush Thank you to an amazing team of vendors! Venue: The Sarasota Yacht Club Officiant: A Wedding with Grace Ceremony & Cocktail Hour Music: Jason Hobert Reception Music: No Filter Band Florist: Oneco Florist Photographer: Alisa Sue Photography Videographer: TruColor Productions Cake: Cakes by Ron Hair/Makeup: Rachel's Artistry Transportation: Siesta Trolley    

By |2017-08-25T23:09:42-04:00July 17th, 2017|Centerpiece Ideas, DIY, favors, Floral, Invitations, Photography, Rentals, Sarasota, Stationary, Table Decor, Uncategorized, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Laura & Fletchers Wedding at the Sarasota Yacht Club

Brianna and David’s Longboat Key Club Wedding

The love between these two didn't go unnoticed! Especially on their wedding day! May your love flourish for all eternity! Venue: The Resort Longboat Key Club - Spike's N Tees Ceremony Music: Kristen Antolik  Reception Music: Dennis Lee Florals: Victoria Blooms  Photographer: Shaina DeCiryan  Cake: Cakes by Ron Makeup: Krista Worth   

By |2017-08-25T23:09:22-04:00July 7th, 2017|Cake, Centerpiece Ideas, DIY, favors, Floral, Sarasota, Table Decor, Uncategorized, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Brianna and David’s Longboat Key Club Wedding

Krystel & Matt’s Palmetto Riverside Bed and Breakfast

So many gorgeous details at every angle of Krystel & Matt's wedding! We couldn't have done it with out this amazing team of vendors! Venue: Palmetto Riverside Bed and Breakfast Full Planning , Coordination, lighting & Draping: Swanky Soiree Videography: Seltzer Films Photography: Concept Photography Floral Design: Victoria Blooms  Hair: Bliss Salon Makeup: Jessmarie Make up DJ & Photobooth: Jam All Day Entertainment Linens: Linens By The Sea Furniture: So Staged Event Design + Rentals  Catering: Innovative Dining  Cake: Pastries by Design  Dress: Blush Bridal Sarasota    

By |2017-05-26T15:14:35-04:00May 26th, 2017|Centerpiece Ideas, favors, Floral, Invitations, Palmetto, Photography, Rentals, Sarasota, Stationary, Table Decor, Themed Parties, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Krystel & Matt’s Palmetto Riverside Bed and Breakfast

Sarasota & Bradenton’s Top Wedding Venues

Being home to the Nation's #1 Beach isn't all Sarasota has to offer. There are a plethora of venues that are sure to take your breathe away! #1. The Longboat Key Club #2. John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art #3. Marie Selby Botanical Gardens #4. The Ritz-Carlton #5. Historic Spanish Point #6. Tortuga Inn #7. Powel Crosley #8. Beach House #9. Baker's Ranch #10. Philippi Mansion #11. Mixon's in the Grove #12. South Florida Museum #13. Sarasota Garden Club #15. Palma Sola Botanical Park

By |2019-06-12T22:29:41-04:00February 21st, 2017|Arch, Centerpiece Ideas, Color, DIY, Donuts, favors, Floral, Invitations, Palmetto, Photography, Rentals, Sarasota, Stationary, Table Decor, Trending, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Sarasota & Bradenton’s Top Wedding Venues

Paula & Evans Palma Sola Botanical Garden Wedding

Paula and Evan were married at the beautiful Palma Sola Botanical Garden on November 4, 2016. You can truly see how deep their love is within the photos of this boho chic inspired wedding. We couldn't be happier for the both of you! Congratulations!!   Venue :: Palma Sola Botanical Garden Officiant :: Tim Pastmore Ceremony Music :: Matt Dendy Reception Music :: Complete Southwest Caterer :: Harry's Kitchen Florist :: Oneco Florist Photographer :: Everence Photography Videographer :: JD Cobb Cake :: Publix - University Walk Linen & Rentals :: Swanky Soiree & US Tent  

By |2017-02-06T11:48:27-05:00December 31st, 2016|Cake, Centerpiece Ideas, DIY, favors, Floral, Party Decor, Photography, Rentals, Sarasota, Stationary, Table Decor, Trending, Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Paula & Evans Palma Sola Botanical Garden Wedding