A Walk Down Memory Lane - Kevin & Erin (August 16, 2008)

I've recently been hired by a lovely couple to help them plan their 2011 nuptials to take place at The Palace Theatre in Albany. In working with them, I can't help thinking about one of my all time favorite weddings because it too was at the beautiful and historic Palace Theatre. This wedding was particularly special for me because it was the wedding of my brother and now sister-in-law, Kevin and Erin.

Kevin and Erin approached me with the pretty tall order of planning an elaborate affair in only three months time. Given that they were both extremely busy with their careers, they had no time to devote to the time consuming task of planning so I was happy to help and to this day, it is one of the most amazing events I've produced.

Since The Palace is a grand 1930's era theatre, it seemed natural to make this event a tribute to that time. Everything chosen was classic and timeless. From the brides full length lace gown and groom's simple black tuxedo to the choice of using fern and feathers as dominant elements of the floral design. The stage where guests danced the night away was designed to mimic an vintage Supperclub. Each selection was made to give guests the subtle feeling that they had entered the 1930's itself.

The evening was filled with surprising and special touches. We surprised the bride and groom by bringing in their beloved dog to act as the Ring Bearer and showering them with feathers during their recessional. The Bride and Groom surprised the guests by making their grand entrance on the stage lift. But the surprises didn't stop there. A talented singer, the bride serenaded her new husband at the reception. We provided a vintage microphone for that very special moment. At the end of the night, guests stopped by the concession stand, but not for the typical salty oil covered popcorn you might find in a theatre. Instead they filled personalized treat bags to the brim at a gourmet popcorn bar.

An amazing venue makes for an amazing event. For design inspiration, there was no need to look further than the inspirational surroundings of this iconic theatre. I look forward to creating an equally fabulous wedding for my new fab couple Tehra and Juan. Working with a completely different color scheme and spin on the grand theatre theme, I can't wait to see them make this location their own and their wedding a true representation of their style and personalities. Check out this short video with all the details: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lVSz8zdXk3U

Photography by Fred Ricard Photography.

Ceylane & Darren - September 25, 2010

I first met Ceylane and Darren in the summer of 2009. They had already selected 11 North Pearl Events Centre for their September 25, 2010 wedding reception. The goal in working with them was to create an uber-romantic reception as elegant as the setting in which it would take place. I think we achieved just that.

The color palette for the design would combine the bride's favorite color red with a fall inspired chocolate brown. Pops of gold and crystal bumped up the bling in the room. To give the couple the ultimate in romantic ambiance, the room was aglow with an abundance of candlelight and filled with classic red roses.

To create more visual interest in the room, the floor plan included long Tuscan style tables seating 20 guests, more traditional rounds and a long oval table for the bridal party. Instead of matching centerpieces on each table, a different but coordinating design was created for each shape of table. Long tables featured two tall centerpieces of curly willow branches, hanging candles and red rose petals. Then cubes of red roses were were added to create a floral table runner effect. Low and lush clusters of small cubes of red roses, floating and pillar candles adorned the round tables. For even more romance and bling, every surface of the room was sprinkled with red rose petals and crystals. The Chivari chairs, chargers and framed table numbers added the touches of gold to create a truly gilded feel to the room.

But a wedding is so much more than its design. This was a very special day for a special couple that has been together for a long time already. They injected their personalities and story into every detail. From the the music playlist, the menu, the custom monogram displayed on the wall to the lavender ceremony flowers selected in honor of the grooms late mother, the guests could make no mistake that it was the wedding day of Ceylane & Darren. It was an absolute pleasure working with such a wonderful couple. I know that their wedding day was just the beginning of a long and happy life together.

Thanks to my team: Sarah, Katelyn and Leah and everyone else who helped make it all happen: Brandi, Brian & Aimie at Classe Catering, Michele Peters at Ambiance Florals & Events for the amazing floral designs, DJ Greg Frasier for keeping the party energy up, J&S Watkins for the delicious wedding cake, limousines by Advantage Transportation, photos and video by Chris Pettigrosso of Galleria Designs, ceremony music by Azzaam Hameed and overnight accommodations by the Crowne Plaza City Center.

Blog photos by Lydia Zach of LZ Photography.