An Apple a Day for your Wedding Day

September is such a great month in so many different ways but especially because fall is approaching. It's the start of the humidity and heat coming down, and the beautiful colors of nature changing. Also, the smell of the crisp air in the morning, and the season for apples, gourds, and pumpkins! When we think of September, we think of Apples! Johnny Appleseed himself was born in September and it's a classic gift to give to your teacher on the first day of school! This post will most likely be focusing on Apples and how can you incorporate them into a special event! Such a delicious fruit to eat on its own, cut up and dip into peanut butter, or bake into a pie. Here in Florida, we find it hard to find apple orchards, or experience the art of apple picking. All though if apples and fall are in your favor, here are some fun ideas to browse through and get creative with for your event!   Fall in Love with the Venues Apple Orchards are hard to find in Florida, however you can still get the same environment with a winery, or rustic barn. Usually large open fields, orchards, or farms can make a beautiful back drop for a ceremony and reception (weather permitting of course). The scenery is great for photos, fresh air, and some fun! A piece of advice, make sure you're aware of "hunting season" as far as birds or little creatures go. The worst would be hearing shots go off in the middle of your ceremony...talk about a gunshot wedding!   Fun Signage and Decor A simple and rustic wedding look doesn't have to be that hard! [...]

By |2019-08-08T14:34:18-04:00September 25th, 2019|Uncategorized|Comments Off on An Apple a Day for your Wedding Day

Puppy Love at Weddings

The latest trend, that hopefully never dies down, is including your furry friend on your special day. Some couples have human babies, and some have furry babies. Your babies, no matter human or animal, big or small, mean a lot to you and of course you want them to take "Paw-t" in your day! If this is an important decision to make, choosing a venue that is pet-friendly is a definite must. Most outdoor venues, are dog friendly. If your ceremony is on the beach, make sure to check local regulations about dogs being allowed on the beach. There are so many ways to include your pet, starting from Save the Date photos, and ending with Reception fun. Here are some fun ideas to incorporate your furry friend so they don't miss out on the paw-ty either!   Pre-Wedding Photo Fun Save-the-Dates, along with Engagement & Wedding announcements have grown in spreading the word with a photo shoot. Clever ways to intertwine your pup in pictures are accompanying him/her with signs or bandanas that say, "Dog of Honor" or "Best Dog". A photographer that has patience, loves animals, and a drive to get the right picture makes the perfect equation for a perfect announcement. But don't let your pup steal the spotlight, get that one "money shot" and let your dog be a dog.  Here are some cute photos and examples of what couples are doing to spread the word of their engagement!   Ceremony Canines Pets are known to help reduce anxiety. Before you walk down the aisle, spend a few moments snuggling your sweet pooch. If doing programs, list your pooch as a bridesmaid or a groomsmen. Another great way to [...]

By |2019-07-17T17:30:43-04:00September 10th, 2019|Uncategorized, Weddings|Comments Off on Puppy Love at Weddings

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

Wedding Welcome Bags

Destination weddings are becoming more popular. A great way to greet your guests traveling is with a welcome bag. Welcome bags are not a MUST HAVE item for your guests, especially if you are on a tight budget. Favors for your wedding day may be a better idea then having both favors and welcome bags. Usually, when guests check in to their hotel rooms you can leave welcome bags with the front desk. As your guests check in the staff will give them to your guests. Another idea, is to personally deliver welcome bags to your guests as you may not see them prior to your wedding day. It's a great way to thank them for coming to your wedding. Here are some fun and popular ideas and items to include in your welcome bag for guests.   The Actual Bag: Starting with a fun personal/customized bag sets the tone of your theme for your wedding, and it's fun to be creative with it! If it's in your budget, get custom tote bags done for your guests. They can reuse the bag during their trip or even for groceries and it's a nice memorable item for them to keep. Include your monogram, or names and date you are getting married. Maybe even include the location.   A Welcome Note: A welcome note really can be anything you want it to be. A simple tag attached to the bag may be all you need. If it is a smaller group of guests, include a schedule of events for the weekend. If some of your guests haven't been to this location before, include brochures or fun maps of the area. A simple, handwritten thank you [...]

By |2019-07-05T10:48:56-04:00August 12th, 2019|Uncategorized|Comments Off on Wedding Welcome Bags

Fun and Favorable Favors!

When having a wedding, it is common for the couple to provide favors for their guests. It makes for a great souvenir to take home to remember their special day. Depending on the budget favors can be big or small, or some use it to donate to their favorite charities. If doing a destination wedding, it is fun to incorporate local goodies from local businesses for your guests to cherish. In this blog post, we have incorporated some of our favorite local Sarasota favors. We also, have incorporated some of the most commonly used favors as well.   Drinkware: This is by far the most popular items we see. Koozies of all kinds, bottle openers, shot glasses, coasters and custom plastic cups. You can be creative with your custom design, or simple. Just make sure it includes your names and date!   Personal Care Items This category can include any of your basic bath necessities. This could be bath salts, bath bombs, lip balm, and soap. These are great items you can also find in local stores that are hand made from artists that like to sell at art fairs. These items come individually wrapped, all you need to do is add a cute tag around it with your names and date and a "Thank You" of course! Food Items Food items is another great way to incorporate local establishments, or offer them as a dessert option instead of a favor. If your wedding has a certain theme to it, you can get creative with items to go with that theme. Some common items we find are "His & Her" candy, "Mint - to - be", Hershey Kisses "from the mr [...]

By |2019-07-05T09:59:18-04:00August 6th, 2019|Uncategorized|Comments Off on Fun and Favorable Favors!

Swanky Spotlight: Jessie & Derek

Jessie & Derek are a sweet and fun loving couple that booked us for month of planning and design. It was a pleasure lighting up their dance floor and getting to see both Jewish and Christian faiths come together. A beautiful evening with nothing but the sun shining through and the spring florals in full bloom set the mood right! This local couple had much to celebrate with their blended traditional fun. The dance floor was complete with the tradition of Jewish and American moves, and were happy to share it with close family and friends. Thank you to all the vendors that made their day special! Venue: The Powel Crosley Estate // Caterer: Good Food Events + Catering // Photographer: Rising Lotus Photography // Videographer: JSmedia // Band: Bay Kings // Hair & Makeup: The Destiny & Light Hair and Makeup Group by Priscilla Marie // Cake: A Piece of Cake // Florals: Kathy Gilbert // Photo Booth: Snapshoot Photo Booth [/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

By |2019-06-20T17:24:14-04:00June 18th, 2019|Uncategorized, Weddings|Comments Off on Swanky Spotlight: Jessie & Derek

Blogging about Bling!

There are several important parts of getting married, but the most important is choosing a wedding ring/band for you and your partner to enjoy and have the rest of your marriage! Engagement and wedding rings are worn on the fourth finger of the left hand because it was once thought that a vein in that finger led directly to the heart. Some things to keep in mind when your searching for a ring band is the shape and setting of the actual gem. Can you fit your hand in your pocket or is the rock to big? Some couples will decide to incorporate a family heirloom which is super special and meaningful! Second would be sizing of the band, and the comfort level of the metal that may be chosen. Keep in mind of your budget, you shouldn't go into debt for something sparkly as the jeweler should suggest ways of making it stand out the best way possible! Lastly, a ring (especially custom) can sometimes take up to 6 weeks before it is ready! Make sure you get everything in writing of what you want and costs. There is no right or wrong when choosing a diamond or gemstone, only how you feel about that certain type. In the symbolic language of jewels, a sapphire in a wedding ring means marital happiness. A pearl ring used to be said that it is bad luck, as the shape of a pearl looks like the shape of a tear! That of course is only if you believe such symbolism of the ancient myths and traditions. Here are some helpful charts and photos that has several different cuts of a diamond/jewel and bands to get an idea [...]

By |2019-06-12T22:29:19-04:00June 11th, 2019|Uncategorized|Comments Off on Blogging about Bling!

Swanky Spotlight: Erica & Ryan

Erica and Ryan booked us for Full Planning, and we had a blast helping them create their special day! It was a beautiful and bright afternoon to match their colorful scheme to their ceremony & reception. The fun loving couple celebrated their wedding with close family and friends. Erica loved bright colors and unique details to incorporate in their wedding and we had fun doing that for her. Thank you to our vendors that made this day special! Wedding Venue: Palmetto Riverside Bed & Breakfast // Hair & Makeup: K. Gamso Hair & Makeup // Pier 22 Catering // Photographer: Ashlee Hamon Photography // Officiant: Reverend Chris // Florist: Oneco Florist // Dj: Iron Mike // Rentals: US Tent & Linens by the Sea // Pies: Der Dutchman // Cake: Publix [/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

By |2019-06-20T17:27:48-04:00June 4th, 2019|Uncategorized|Comments Off on Swanky Spotlight: Erica & Ryan

#FunFactFriday

One of the most popular items that get paired with a wedding dress is a bouquet. The tradition of bridal bouquets started back in Ancient Roman days, as well as the Middle Ages. Each era brought it's own meaning behind having a bouquet of flowers. Some believe that flowers signify new beginnings, or hope of fertility. Certain bouquets would add spices and herbs to ward off evil spirits and bad luck. Also, it was uncommon back in the day for women (and men) to bathe regularly, so it would mask the smell of body odor on their special day! [/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

By |2019-06-12T22:29:21-04:00May 17th, 2019|Uncategorized|Comments Off on #FunFactFriday

Save the Dates and Invitations

Wedding planning comes with so many Do's & Don'ts! We have the perfect guide to staying ahead of the game with relaying info to guests. Wedding Website Personal Wedding Websites are a must have - especially if you want all your guess to know as many details as possible! (Lets be real - it can't all fit in your invitations) Once you have confirmed your date and venue, go ahead and start your website. I really like using The Knots Wedding Website - it is extremely user friendly - guests can even RSVP to your website. You can regularly update details as you lock down more. There are so many different website themes to pick some - what makes it even better is that The Knot has teamed up with so many other amazing vendors that you can have matching invitations, and a honeyfund!   Save the Dates   In a world thats clearly dependent on technology - your wedding website can double as your "save the date," but if you would like to stay more on the traditional route, then you can send a paper one. Save the dates can be sent to your guests 9-12 months prior to your wedding date. You can get really creative with these! So have fun Invitations Invitations should be sent out 2-3 months before your wedding. The problem with sending them TOO early, is that guests tend to procrastinate and think they will have all the time in the world to plan their wedding trip. Since you have a wedding website or sent out save the dates - the invitation is just a reminder that HEY! This is happening in real life :] and its the last reminder [...]

By |2019-06-12T22:29:22-04:00January 25th, 2019|Uncategorized|Comments Off on Save the Dates and Invitations

Taylor and Chris – Longboat Key Club

Planning with Taylor & Chris was a blast! She shared our love for color coding & organization during the planning process. This made for a smooth and absolutely stunning wedding day! We just couldn't wait to see these final photos. With at backdrop of the beautiful Longboat Key Club and clear Sarasota skies we knew they'd be amazing. Congratulations Taylor and Chris - We wish you both an eternity of happiness! Thank you to our vendors! // Venue- Weddings at The Resort at Longboat Key Club // Band- Bay Kings Band // Officiant- Rabbi Huntting // Florist - Flowers by Fudgie // Cake - Cakes by Ron // Rentals- US Tent Rental // Photographer- Corner House Photography // Hair and Makeup- Eye Do's Make-Up & Hair // Transportation- Siesta Trolley, Inc [/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

By |2019-06-12T22:29:23-04:00January 8th, 2019|Uncategorized|Comments Off on Taylor and Chris – Longboat Key Club

What is Wedding Insurance?

You're the middle of planning your wedding and your best friend, who is getting married before you, just had her florist go out of business and she lost her entire deposit. She is completely in shambles and now you are thinking - "Could something like this happen to me and how do I protect myself?" There is a simple and affordable solution that every bride should take advantage of – Wedding Insurance! Wedding insurance has been around for a number of years and is becoming very popular as more wedding couples learn about the advantages of protecting their investment in their wedding with wedding insurance. Here are the basics! There are two types of wedding insurance – Cancellation & Postponement insurance and Liability insurance. Cancellation & Postponement insurance Cancellation insurance covers you against lost deposits if you need to cancel or postpone your wedding due to injury or illness of a family member, extreme weather, unscheduled military deployment or other reasons beyond your control. It also pays you for lost deposits if a vendor does not show up or goes out of business, as well as covering costs for items like a lost, stolen or damaged wedding ring, gifts or your wedding gown. Cancellation insurance comes in different levels, typically $7,500 up to $100,000 and is purchased based on the overall budget for your wedding. Liability insurance Liability insurance will pay for damage to the venue caused by you or a guest. It can also pay for medical expenses if someone is injured at your wedding. A good liability policy will also include liquor liability insurance, which will protect you if you are sued for damages caused by a drunken guest. Liability insurance is being [...]

By |2018-12-20T07:20:30-05:00December 30th, 2018|Uncategorized|Comments Off on What is Wedding Insurance?

Bridal traditions from around the world

It's so amazing to see all of the different rituals and traditions that brides around the world celebrate! What are some of the traditions that you plan to do for your wedding day? Moroccan Milk Bath  Moroccan women take a milk bath to purify themselves before their wedding ceremony.  Chinese Hair Combing  Chinese women wash their hair in water that has been infused with pomegranate leaves. These leaves offer the sense of relaxation - which we all know is greatly needed, especially before the night before the wedding. The officiant is chosen by the family, but she must be someone married with children. She combs the bride-to-bes locks, each stroke bears a special connotation. the first is for a long-lasting marriage, the second for harmony in the relationship, the third fertility, and the fourth bestows good health and fortune. The Haldi Ceremony  Married women of the family each rub a mixture of turmeric powder and either milk or rosewater to the Bride (or Grooms) face, neck and hands. There is an anti oxidant called Curcumin that works as a mild antidepressant, which ties closely to relieving wedding day jitters. Grecian Crowning  2 crowns connected by a long ribbon are the most distinctive element of grecian bridal styling. These crowns, in a sense, tie the couple together for the rest of their lives. They are passed between bride and groom 3 times while the couple is blessed by the bride.

By |2018-12-19T23:05:27-05:00December 21st, 2018|Uncategorized|Comments Off on Bridal traditions from around the world

Shannon and Dylan – September 24, 2018 – Sarasota Yacht Club

To say we are SWOONING over these pictures of Shannon and Dylans Wedding just isn't enough! So many gorgeous details we just can't even deal! It was a beautiful setting on the Sarasota Bay Front - the weather was absolutely perfect! The Sarasota Yacht Club holds home to a stunning backdrop of boats, water and palm trees. We had so much fun planning along side Shannon. As her full wedding coordinators we assisted in finding the perfect vendors that would make her vision come to life!   Thank you to such an amazing team of vendors Venue:: Sarasota Yacht Club Officiant:: I Do Ceremonies Florist:: Oh Darling Events DJ:: Breezin Entertainment Photography:: Cat Penenga Cake:: Cakes by Ron Car:: Revvies Classic Hair and Makeup:: Krista Worth Beauty   Linens and Dancefloor :: Linens By The Sea Full Event Planning, Rentals, Draping, Lighting, Stationary - Swanky Soiree

By |2018-12-21T08:10:20-05:00December 21st, 2018|Arch, Uncategorized, Weddings|Comments Off on Shannon and Dylan – September 24, 2018 – Sarasota Yacht Club

Edwin and Rebecca – November 11, 2017 -Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium

We loved being a part of Edwin and Rebeccas' Wedding Day! Their contagious smiles lasted from beginning to end and the love their family and friends showed had the Swanky team feeling a new member of their crew too! Congratulations to you both! We wish you both the best as you begin the next chapter of your lives together! We loved being a part of Edwin and Rebeccas' Wedding Day! Their contagious smiles lasted from beginning to end and the love their family and friends showed had the Swanky team feeling a new member of their crew too! Congratulations to you both! We wish you both the best as you begin the next chapter of your lives together! Planning, Draping and Lighting, Stationary - Swanky Soiree Venue - Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium Officiant - Wes Bixby Ceremony Music - Samantha Bennett with the Sarasota Orchestra Reception Music - Jah Movement Caterer, Cake & Cupcakes - Mattison's Rentals - US Tent Rental, Linens By The Sea Florist - Beneva Flowers & Plantscapes Photographer - Christina Marie Photography Videography- Jared Serfozo and Nick Friedman Hair and Makeup - Shannon at Urban Designs by Avenue, Urban Designs by Avenue Transportation - Siesta Trolley, Inc

By |2018-08-22T23:51:30-04:00September 26th, 2018|Uncategorized, Weddings|Comments Off on Edwin and Rebecca – November 11, 2017 -Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium

Wedding Professionals Event

We had so much fun attending the SWEL Event! The theme was Tomorrowland - so you know we had to dress up! We got to hang out with some of our favorite wedding vendors and meet some new ones too!! Thank You to Jordan with the Ringling Museum and Brittany with Be Wed for putting on such an amazing event! Photos by Love and Style Photography & Kimberly Dyer Photography Signage, Stage and High Tops: Cheers Events Lounge Furniture: A Chair Affair, Inc. Drapery: Swag Decor Game Lounge sponsored by Sage SRQ Band: Phase5 DJ & Lighting: DJ Cory Barron & Co. Linens: Over The Top Rental Linens Balloons: The Modern Girl Party & Co. Catering: Mattison's, Tsunami Sushi, PizzaSRQ, Sage SRQ, Modern Events Catering & Puff 'n Stuff Catering Dessert: Petals And Sugar, Five-O Donut Co, Desserts by Gray, Sweets Bakehouse, Sub Zero Nitrogen Ice Cream and Original JEL SHOT Company. Photo Booth: Hello Gorgeous Photobooth  

By |2018-08-23T00:53:01-04:00September 20th, 2018|Uncategorized|Comments Off on Wedding Professionals Event

Wedding Trends for 2018

Its that time of year where we update you with the best Wedding Trends for your special day!   Low Centerpieces Hanging Centerpieces Natural Makeup  Romantic Lighting  Textured Elements Cascading Bouquets Welcome Bags  Metallic Accents 

By |2019-06-12T22:29:26-04:00September 14th, 2018|Uncategorized, Weddings|Comments Off on Wedding Trends for 2018

About Swanky Soiree

Florida Wedding Planner, Destination Weddings serving  Tampa Bay and surrounding areas. Let us plan your destination wedding. We are a one stop shop for all of your planning needs. We also specialize in destination corporate events. #weddingplanner #eventplanner #destinationevents #floridaweddings

By |2019-06-12T22:29:27-04:00September 13th, 2018|Uncategorized|Comments Off on About Swanky Soiree

#FunFactFriday

The custom of tiered cakes came from a game where the bride and groom attempted to kiss over an ever-higher cake without knocking it over. The tallest wedding cake in the world is 17 feet in height - made for the New England Bridal Showcase in February 2004. It weighted 15,000 pounds! Lets assume they did not try to kiss over this cake. Here's a pic from the Guinness World Records to compare its outrageous height.

By |2019-06-12T22:29:29-04:00August 24th, 2018|Uncategorized|Comments Off on #FunFactFriday

#FunFactFriday

86% of Couples perform a first dance. The first dance is celebrated as the bride and groom’s first dance as a married couple. It is a very special moment the bridal couple gets to celebrate with each other only. This can also be the first time of the night where you both get to slow down and enjoy yourselves - as everything leading up to this moment has been hair and makeup, pictures, the ceremony, and more pictures. The 17th Century bride and groom would do a Waltz, a ballroom dance style, for their First Dance. Today, couples are not as skilled, nor trained, to do many classical dancing - BUT some couples do invest in a choreographed dance, which is always a fun surprise for guests! Some of the most popular first dance songs are: You are the best thing - Ray Lamontagne A thousand Years - Christina Perri At Last - Etta James (this is the longest first dance song in history) From the ground up - Dan and Shay  

By |2018-06-06T14:55:42-04:00August 10th, 2018|Uncategorized|Comments Off on #FunFactFriday