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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!
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Amy & Ryan – 9/8/2023 – LWRCC

Amy and Ryan celebrated the happiest day of their lives at the beautiful Lakewood Ranch Country Club. Amy, a beloved vendor-friend, graced her special day with stunning pops of black and blush, reflecting her unique style and personality. As a special touch, she included her cherished dog, making their wedding day truly unforgettable.   Special shoutout to their amazing vendor team! Venue: Lakewood Ranch Country Club Photography: Angela Moon Photography Videography: Artistry Films Florist: Mary Nell Chadsey Floral Design DJ: TLS Entertainment Rentals: Palacios Events Rentals: Kate Ryan Event Rentals HMU: Lasting Luxe Hair and Makeup Cake: Cakes by Ron Ceremony Effects: Spark Weddings + Events Officiant: I Do Ceremonies Pet Sitter: FairyTail Pet Care   

By |2024-02-28T09:40:36-05:00February 28th, 2024|Venues, Weddings|Comments Off on Amy & Ryan – 9/8/2023 – LWRCC
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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!
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Determining Who is Paying for What!

If you have found this post it is probably because you are stuck in the awkward situation where your wedding is only a few months away and it is time to talk money with the family. Do not stress, here is a list of what family member(s) usually pay for - traditional and relevant! Traditionally, the brides parents pay for anything wedding related. This custom is now getting divided between the brides parents, the grooms parents, and the couple.   The brides parents are usually held accountable for the following expenses: ~ Engagement Party ~ Wedding Planner ~ Invitations and day-of stationery ~ Photography and Videography ~ Venue ~ Bride's attire (and details) ~ Ceremony and reception floral arrangements, rentals, and decor ~ Food and drinks ~ Wedding cake ~ Guest transportation ~ Travel and lodging costs for bridesmaids and officiant ~ Any other reception expenses       The groom's family typically pays for: ~ Marriage License and Officiant fee ~ Corsages and Boutonnières for family members on both sides ~ Lodging for groomsmen ~ Rehearsal dinner costs ~ Reception Alcohol (optional) ~ DJ or Band (optional)       The bride usually pays for: ~ Wedding flowers and gifts for the bridesmaids ~ All hair and makeup costs ~ Grooms wedding band ~ Grooms wedding gift       And last but not least, here are the items a groom typically pays for: ~ Engagement & Wedding Rings ~ Marriage License and Officiant fee (if parents have not covered) ~ Brides bouquet ~ Groomsmen boutonnières and gifts ~ Brides wedding gift ~ Honeymoon   Another thing to think about is tipping your vendors, typically this expense is given to the bride and groom [...]

By |2023-12-12T13:25:23-05:00December 12th, 2023|Wedding Tips|Comments Off on Determining Who is Paying for What!
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Wedding Tip: Picking A Florist!

Picking a florist is one of the most important parts of planning the big day. With their work of art is displayed throughout the entire day, it is important that your vision and expectations are met accordingly with the vendor. From guest table pieces to boutonnières, it ALL needs to be discussed. When it comes down to picking the right one, here are a few tips we would like to share! Ask for opinions: Whether this is from other vendors, family/friends, or your local grocery store clerk. It is always good to have a second opinion from somebody, it also gives people a chance to express their personal experiences with local florists. Matching aesthetics: It is all about portfolio stalking. As you narrow down your list of potential florists, dig deep into their portfolios to really find what you are looking for. A few things to keep in mind is that if you are looking for light and airy florals, lean more towards those florists with that as their portfolio, not tight and traditional designs. Discuss Budget: This is super important!! A florist with beautiful designs that you've fallen in love with is easy to find. If you have a certain budget you are looking to spend, express that with a few florists until you receive a quote back similar to your budget. Ask Questions: It is very important to know exactly what each floral company does. It is is also super important to understand the contract and the billing breakdown. Ask questions, it never hurts! Bonus tip! If you are a visual person, you can ask your florist to do an in-person table mock up, for an additional cost. This helps visually [...]

By |2023-11-07T11:13:23-05:00November 7th, 2023|Wedding Tips|Comments Off on Wedding Tip: Picking A Florist!
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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!!!
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Late Night Snack Ideas

A wedding trend that we all know and love is late night snacks. Not only will you and your significant other appreciate it, but your guests will to. Late night snacks can be something fun like donuts or ice cream, or something more personal like your favorite candies! Better yet, it can be all of the above! Late night snacks do not always have to be sweet either, your guests will love something savory to enjoy after the cake is served! A few savory late night snacks could be pretzels, pizza, or popcorn! We also love when the couple brings in a coffee truck after cake service, it keeps the guests going all night long! Also, check with your catering team, they might have some yummy snack ideas up their sleeves too! Sweet Late Night Snacks! Savory Late Night Snacks Beverage Stations   Some of our favorite late night snack vendors are... AMI Coconuts Myxtini Kombi Keg Sospiri The Gelato Carte Modern Girl Party Co. Chocolate Fountain Productions Five-0 Donut Co. Storii Coffee Mobile Coffee Cart Rise & Nye’s Trike  

By |2023-09-22T09:30:05-04:00September 22nd, 2023|Dessert, Trending, Weddings|Comments Off on Late Night Snack Ideas
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Wedding Trend: QR codes & Hashtags! ###

A new wedding trend that we love is QR codes and hashtags! This is such a good idea to help engage all of your guests into the big day, from creating a QR code to create an easier way for your guests to RSVP, or viewing the program for the ceremony, or a QR code that brings your guests to a link to upload any photos they have captured from your big day. QR codes are a fun and recent trend to keep up with the times and actually give your guests a reason to be on their cell phones. Best yet, Swanky is more than happy to help you create, print, and tell your guests all about it! Another great way to keep your guests engaged and get in time photo updates of the big day are hashtags. With a social media hashtag, your guests can posts any photos they have taken throughout the night and once the newlyweds get back to their room, they will have plenty of photos to see!    

By |2023-08-31T14:23:30-04:00August 31st, 2023|Stationary, Trending, Weddings|Comments Off on Wedding Trend: QR codes & Hashtags! ###
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Venue Spotlight: Ringling Museum & Ca D’ Zan Mansion

Did you know that you can actually get married at the one and only Ringling Museum in Sarasota, FL? Ringling has two main locations for ceremonies and receptions, the Ringling Museum courtyard and Ca D' Zan Mansion, right on the water! We absolutely love this resort and all of its architectural details and natural beauty it brings to the table. Check out some of our previous wedding we have done at this venue in our portfolio! In the meantime, here are come sneak peaks! Ringling Museum Courtyard Ca D' Zan Mansion

By |2023-08-11T11:01:18-04:00August 11th, 2023|Venues|Comments Off on Venue Spotlight: Ringling Museum & Ca D’ Zan Mansion
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Hallie and Jakes DISCO WEDDING!

From Hallie and Jakes ceremony to last dance, their wedding held disco fever! We absolutely love this genuine couple, they both were so sweet and their love for each other showed tremendously throughout the planning process. Hallie, having a full time job as the owner of No Blues News, a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to sharing good news all around. Hallie and her nonprofit are located in the Sarasota area. Being familiar to the area, Hallie and Jake wanted to stay local and find a venue to transpire their vibrant personalities. And that is where Selby Gardens was a PERFECT venue for these two! With the natural color and comfort of the venue itself, Hallie and Jake didn't think twice when it came to booking Selby as their venue. Another vendor favorite this couple book was the one and only Alisa Sue Photography! Alisa Sue is one of our favorite photographers to work with on the big day. Her personality, spunkiness, and smile fills and room. And she knows exactly how to bust couples out of their shell and get the best photos. Getting back to Hallie and Jakes Disco Extravaganza, we absolutely loved the fun details they had throughout their big day. From disco ball cups at their cocktail hour, for their guests to pour their drinks in. To, neon colored baby's breath and disco balls that hung above their dance floor, their guests danced the night away. Planning with Hallie and Jake was absolutely a blast! We loved planning their colorful and unique day with them! Congratulations, Hallie and Jake! Venue: Selby Gardens Photography: Alisa Sue Photography Videography: Storybook Films Florist: Lilybella Floral Design Band: Bay Kings Band Catering: Michaels [...]

By |2023-08-03T12:33:02-04:00August 3rd, 2023|Weddings|Comments Off on Hallie and Jakes DISCO WEDDING!
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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
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Kate & William – 10/9/2021 – Lido Beach Resort

Kate and William had all Florida vibes at their wedding. A personal favorite was their handmade sign of destinations that they used at their ceremony. Their stationary had pops of palms and greenery to really bring in the tropical vibes all around. Kate and William were an absolute pleasure to work with and their wedding sure was a Florida dream.     Shout out to the incredible vendors!! Venue: Lido Beach Resort Photography: Steven Le - The Photo Ninja Videography: Personal Friend Cake: Cakes by Ron Celloist: Matrick Plays Cello DJ: DJ BMF Officiant: Personal Friend Florist: By The Bay Floral HMU: Femme Akoi

By |2022-08-29T12:40:10-04:00August 29th, 2022|Dessert, Floral, Invitations, Miss to Mrs, Rentals, Stationary, Table Decor, Weddings|Comments Off on Kate & William – 10/9/2021 – Lido Beach Resort
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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
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Jessica & Alex – Zota Beach Resort

Jessica and Alex was a full planning couple with Swanky Soiree for almost 2 years! This poor couple had to post pone there celebration TWICE due to the 2020 Covid-19 restrictions and concerns. They stuck it out with us, and boy was it worth the wait! They finally got married a whole year later after their first date wasn't exactly the best choice being right in the beginning of Covid Chaos. Zota Beach Resort hosted their beach front ceremony with the clear blue water behind them. Complete with perfect weather, they chose a traditional chuppah (with flowers and a chandelier) as they said their vows. Blending their families, culture and religion it was a glamorous day full of fun and sparkles! Congratulations again to Jessica and Alex, we are so happy they finally had their best day ever !  

By |2021-07-20T13:33:01-04:00July 20th, 2021|Beach wedding, Weddings|Comments Off on Jessica & Alex – Zota Beach Resort
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Neal & Lomelo – 5/23/21 – The Ritz Carlton

Kristie and Andrew had a small intimate wedding at The Ritz. With beautiful weather and so much love in the air you couldn't help but smile with joy! With the little touches put together by our Swanky team, it really brought this wedding together. We loved helping Kristie and Andrew make their dream wedding come true! Congratulations you two!!! Vendors: Lead Coordinator: Swanky Christina Harris Venue: The Ritz Carlton Photographer: Alisa Sue Photography Hair & Makeup: Krystal Hall Transportation: Luxor Transportation and Limousine Service Officiant: A Wedding with Grace Florist: Oneco Florist Violinist: The First Brass Cake/Caterer: The Ritz Carlton

By |2021-06-29T15:53:14-04:00June 29th, 2021|Arch, Beach wedding, Cake, Centerpiece Ideas, Floral, Miss to Mrs, Photography, Rentals, Sarasota, Table Decor, Trending, Venues, Wedding Dresses, Weddings|Comments Off on Neal & Lomelo – 5/23/21 – The Ritz Carlton
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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
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Trendy Summer Wedding Dresses

Check out this beautiful dresses that could be a great match for you and your up coming summer wedding! From all beach vibes to boho dreams, these dresses need to be seen!!! This is and A-line silhouette spaghetti strap off white floral lace dress. Check out Camellia Bridal shop. This is a Sheath cowl neck lace wedding dress with a train. Check out Store Envy to find this dress. This is a Boho lace mermaid sweetheart long sleeve off the shoulder bohemian wedding dress. Check out Store Envy to make this dress yours. This is a Elegant A-line sweetheart tulle floral lace appliqué ivory wedding dress. Check out Hi Prom Dress.  This is a Charming Simple Ivory Lace A Line Court Train Spaghetti Straps Backless Side Slit Beach Wedding Dress. This can be found on Ombre Prom. This is a Simple elegant long V-neck white satin ball gown wedding dress. Look at Boho Gowns to find out more. This is a Floral lace V-neck A-line wedding dress. Check out Lover Bridal to find this dress. This is a Ivory mermaid lace cap sleeve wedding dress. Find this dress on Simi Dress. This is a A-line sweetheart ivory lace appliqué wedding dress. Check out PMGdresses. This is a open back spaghetti strap floral boho wedding dress. Check out Sancta Sophia to find out more. This is a A-line V-neck tulle lace appliquéd wedding dress with a chapel train. Find this dress at Simi Dress. This is a Lace mermaid spaghetti strap wedding dress with a chapel train. This dress can be found at Simi Dress. This is a Simple V Neck Chiffon A Line Boho Beach Wedding Dress with a Beaded Appliqué. Check out this dress [...]

By |2021-06-16T11:55:47-04:00June 16th, 2021|Beach wedding, Boho, Bride dresses, BridetoBe, Miss to Mrs, Sarasota, Summer wedding, Wedding Dresses, Weddings|Comments Off on Trendy Summer Wedding Dresses
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5/8/21 – Alyx&David – The Ringling

Alyx and David had a magical May wedding at The Ringing Museum. The Ringling Courtyard was decorated beautifully by the Ringling team and the help of the Swanky Girls. Alyx and David could not have picked a better location and day for their wedding. With a little extra sparkle added by the Swanky team this wedding couldn't have been more perfect! We wish you both the best of luck and sending lots of love to you for your exciting future together.   Vendors: Lead Coordinator: Swanky Soiree Events Stefanie Lawrence Venue: The Ringling Museum Courtyard Rentals:US Tent/So Staged Photographer: Justin Demutiis Photography Videographer: Baby Blue Film Officiant: Pastor Heath Transportation: Siesta Trolley DJ: Jam All Day Makeup: Fresh Salon Hair: Jade Phillips Bar: Metz Bar Caterer: Puff and Stuff Cake: Cakes by Ron Florals: Flowers by Fudgie

By |2021-06-15T12:31:57-04:00June 8th, 2021|Arch, Centerpiece Ideas, Dessert, DIY, Floral, Invitations, Photography, Rentals, Sarasota, Table Decor, Trending, Venues, Wedding Video, Weddings|Comments Off on 5/8/21 – Alyx&David – The Ringling
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Bridal Boxes

Best Bridal Box Subscriptions Get ready for your big day with the help of Bridal Subscription boxes! Not only are there tools to help you plan your wedding, but they also include fun shirts, bags, and much more. Check out some of the websites below and what they offer!! The Miss to Mrs Box subscription is a great website for bridal subscriptions. They offer multiple different types of boxes. You can select a planning box, decoration box, accessory box, or even bridesmaid boxes. This is a must when switching from Miss to Mrs. Another great website to check out is The Bride Box. This website offers more of the congratulations on getting married. Gifts to the bride for her upcoming wedding. It could be anything from a fun pool wedding ring floaty or Champagne classes with Mr and Mrs on it. Check out their website for more! Something New Bridal boxes are one of my favorites! Not only can you pick from the many themed boxes they offer but, you can also create your own box for what you need. It is a fun and unique way to get excited for planning your big day!

By |2021-06-08T10:57:20-04:00June 8th, 2021|Bride boxes, BridetoBe, Miss to Mrs, Weddings|Comments Off on Bridal Boxes
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