The most expensive wedding to date

Princess Diana had 3500 guests in attendance at the congregation at St Paul's Cathedral. 660,000 lined the route of Princess Dianas procession - WOW! This needed 2,200 military officers and 4,000 police to manage crowds. During her vows - She did not promise to "obey" him as part of the traditional vows. That word was eliminated at the couple's request, which caused a sensation at the time. Diana's wedding dress was valued at $13,000.  The dress was made of ivory silk taffeta, decorated with lace, and embroidery,  sequins, and 10,000 pearls. It was designed by Elizabeth and David Emanuel and had a 25-foot train of ivory taffeta and antique lace.  Diana wanted to make sure that she had the longest train in the royal wedding history. So what did the final price tag end up being? 44 million dollars - and in todays world that would equal 77 million dollars! Oh what a sight that would be.

By |2019-06-12T22:29:23-04:00January 4th, 2019|#FunFactFriday|Comments Off on The most expensive wedding to date

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

BoHo Baby Shower

We LOVE getting crafty with Baby showers! The mommy to be wanted a fun and pink Boho theme - so naturally we had touches macrame and feathers spread throughout the venue. No detail was left untouched from the gold metallic straws & pink strawberry milk to the full bloom florals. Thank you to Farmhouse Donuts in Bradenton for the eclectic venue space and DELICIOUS donuts!  

By |2018-12-11T13:24:01-05:00December 11th, 2018|Baby Shower|Comments Off on BoHo Baby Shower

How to create the Perfect Guest List

We've heard it time and time again! "We said we were only inviting 100 people. Our guest list is at 140 now but I know a lot of my family won't be able to come." Invitations go out. RSVPs come back and all of a sudden you realize your third cousins sister on your moms side who you thought wouldn't attend, wants to come and has a family of 5! And only 6 people declined! Your budget for 100 people just went drastically over And before you know it you are in way over your head. PLEASE. If there is one bit of advice we can give you for making your guest list it's this: Only plan for 10% of your guest list to decline. But before you get to the point of having GSR (Guest List Regret) we've got some great tips to help keep you at ease. Consider these three things before you start your list: What is your venues maximum capacity? This should be a no brainer - but DON'T invite more guests than your venue allows. What is your budget? Have you received a quote for a certain amount of guests yet? (This is crucial!) Getting a quote from your caterer/venue is a great starting point in figuring out your budget and per person cost. What is your personal preference as far as style and ambiance? This is entirely up to you. If you have a large venue and want to have a intimate wedding- awesome! Now - who to invite? And who gets priority over the next person? Are there names flying through your brain from left and right? No worries - If it makes you feel better, you can have tiered [...]

By |2019-06-12T22:29:24-04:00October 11th, 2018|Weddings|Comments Off on How to create the Perfect Guest List

Medisa and Scotts Wedding Video

https://vimeo.com/269240331 We got a surprise visit from LOCASH on this wedding day! We couldn't be happier for Medisa and Scott - we wish you both a lifetime of happiness!     * Coordinator: Swanky Soiree Events - Christina Harris * Officiant : James Turner, Groom's uncle * Hair & Make-up : Destiny and Light Hair and Makeup Group  * Florist : Publix Super Market at Centergate VillagePublix * Photography : Horatio, Studio Four Photography * Catering :Carrabba's Italian Grill * Bakery : Dessert Bar by Bride's Mom * DJ : DJ by CJ - John *Band : LOCASH

By |2019-06-12T22:29:24-04:00October 8th, 2018|Wedding Video|Comments Off on Medisa and Scotts Wedding Video

Christina and Daniel – April 28, 2018 – Ringling Museum – Wedding Video

We LOVE wedding videos! https://vimeo.com/271373986 Be sure to check out our Portfolio section to see their wedding pictures! We couldn't do it with out this amazing team of vendors! Venue: Ca' d'Zan at the The John and Mabel Ringling Museum of Art Officiant: Scott Lortz with Weddings and Wellness DJ: Goodley Entertainment Group Band: Alowicious Catering & Bartender: Modern Events Rentals & Florist:So Staged Linens: Over The Top Linens Photographer: Justin DeMutiis Photography Cake: Cakes by Ron Hair and Makeup: Brides by Kelly Anne Transportation: Siesta Trolley, Inc

By |2019-06-12T22:29:25-04:00October 1st, 2018|Wedding Video, Weddings|Comments Off on Christina and Daniel – April 28, 2018 – Ringling Museum – Wedding Video

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

Rachel and Travis – Longboat Key Club – November 18, 2017

Congratulations Rachel and Travis! Your Sarasota Wedding was beautiful! We could not have asked for a more perfect setting for you both! We had so much fun being your wedding planner! Thank you for choosing Swanky Soiree to be your coordinators, do lighting and draping and stationary! Thank you to these awesome vendors! Venue & Caterer: The Resort at Longboat Key Club  Officiant: Family Friend DJ: Party Pro DJ Linens: Linens by the Sea  Rentals: Swanky Soiree Florist: Oneco Florist  Photographer and Videographer: Castorina Photography Cake: Cakes by Ron  Hair: Monique Santiago Makeup: Loch Nessa Creations  Transportation: Siesta Trolley   

By |2018-09-17T14:22:36-04:00September 18th, 2018|Rentals, Stationary, Weddings|Comments Off on Rachel and Travis – Longboat Key Club – November 18, 2017

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

#FunFactFriday

In the United States, 90% of brides take the groom's last name.   Did you know that until 1972 it was the LAW to change your last name once married? Crazy, I know - but the husbands identity used to outweigh the wife's ,which meant that married couples were viewed as "one person" and represented by his last name. Thank goodness fought for womans rights to use their maiden name as they please! Though there is still controversial tones on the topic of changing a woman's last name. Some can view it as abnormal and disrespectful to the husband. Some view it as demeaning to the woman to have to change her last name, and not the other way around. Why should the woman lose her identity?   What about you? Did you think twice about changing your last name after your wedding? Are you keeping your heritage relevant and keeping your initials the same?

By |2019-06-12T22:29:26-04:00September 14th, 2018|#FunFactFriday|Comments Off on #FunFactFriday

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

70% of couples are doing buffet-style dinners for their reception.   Are you trying to decide between a plated dinner or buffet?   We have a couple of Pros and Cons for both! Plated Pros exact food counts are pre-determined everyone at the table gets their food at the same time formalities can be scheduled between courses Cons limited food options requires place cards for  guest meal designation if your guests are still hungry, there is no additional food   Buffet  Pros variety of food choices promotes mingling and interacting amongst guests Cons depending on your guests count, it may take a while for all guests to receive their food. guests have to carry their own plate, may not be as elegant as some people like. requires larger quantities of food, as people eat more when they serve themselves.  

By |2019-06-12T22:29:27-04:00September 7th, 2018|#FunFactFriday|Comments Off on #FunFactFriday

#FunFactFriday

67% of Couples had an open bar at their wedding. Alcohol can be a large part of your budget. While sometimes the option of an open bar is too costly. There are plenty of ways to modify this! For your cocktail hour - offer a his and hers signature drink only! Since this is the first open hour of the day - guests are likely to bombard the bar for its entire duration. Sticking to a 2 drink menu at this time will help cut down some cost. You can also have an open bar for cocktail hour, and cash bar for dinner. (just be sure to add in CASH BAR on your invitation so guests come prepared) 'Beer and Wine only' is another option that can help with your wallet. It's always good to check with your local beer and wine store to see if you are allowed to return any unopened cases! You may also have to set some rules with your bartender to aide in keeping your guests at an appropriate party level such as No Shots! And don't worry! You have to do what is in your means - if a guest makes a remark about having a cash bar, they do not have to come :] Remember this is your day - not theirs.

By |2019-06-12T22:29:28-04:00August 31st, 2018|#FunFactFriday|Comments Off on #FunFactFriday

Jenny and Matt’s Wedding Video

Talk about sweetest couple in the world! We were so happy to be a part of Jenny and Matts Wedding! They just recently welcomed their first child! So much congratulations goes out to them on yet another new journey in their lives! Thank You Sublime Studios for your amazing work! https://vimeo.com/273762594/d1bb59bfc8 Vendors: Venue: The Resort at Longboat Key Club Officiant:  Kevin, family friend DJ: Dax Quijano Florist: Publix and Victoria Blooms Photographer and Videographer: Sublime Studios Cake & Balloons : Publix Hair and Makeup :: Family Friend Transportation :: Siesta Trolley, Inc

By |2019-06-12T22:29:28-04:00August 27th, 2018|Wedding Video, Weddings|Comments Off on Jenny and Matt’s Wedding Video

#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

Christina and Chris – Longboat Key Club Wedding – April 28, 2018

We loved planning with Christina and Chris! Christina was a bride who knew exactly what she wanted - which was great! Planning was a breeze and it was so fun watching all the beautiful details come together on the day of. Unfortunately, a serious rain storm came out of no where and moved the party inside! But no rain could stop the night from continuing on!   We really have to say thank you to all of these vendors who were all aiding to quickly relocate the party for the new Mr. and Mrs. Venue: Weddings at The Resort at Longboat Key Club​ Florist: Flowers by Fudgie​ DJ: DeLair Entertainment​, Wayne DeLair​ Photographer: K&K Photography​ Officiant: Family Friend Photobooth: ShutterBooth Tampa​ Hair and Makeup: The Destiny & Light Hair and Makeup Group by Priscilla Marie​ Musician: Ben Pila Transportation: Siesta Trolley, Inc​ Videographer: A Peachy Life Productions​

By |2018-08-22T22:35:02-04:00August 21st, 2018|Stationary, Weddings|Comments Off on Christina and Chris – Longboat Key Club Wedding – April 28, 2018