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A Little Bit of Country - Find the perfect setting for your "Country Chic" wedding

Some couples just don't feel like a traditional banquet room or upscale ballroom represent who they are as a couple. Instead, they're looking for a more casual venue that will give their special day a warm and relaxed feeling; a place that they can fill with unique touches. Enters the increasingly popular "country chic" wedding! Inspired Occasions already has three of these type weddings on the books for next year.

What makes these weddings chic? The details. . . Beverages on ice served from wooden barrels or an antique canoe; a vintage pick-up truck used in place of a table for the dessert display, escort cards simply hanging by clothespins on the exterior of an old ban, centerpieces of wildflowers in collections of vintage milk glass or ball jars. These days, the measure of a great wedding is not in how fancy it is, but how meticulous and personal the details. Let the imagination run wild and be inspired by all things old, rustic and raw. Pair these things with beautiful linens and flowers and display everything in a creative and whimsical way. . . you've got Chic!

What makes them country? The location. The landscape and picturesque seasons of Upstate New York lend themselves to this genre so you don't have to go far to find the perfect setting for your country chic affair. For all you Capital Region couples who are thinking of going this route, be sure to take a peek at these spectacular locations:

Pruyn House (Newtonville, NY). Located just outside of Albany, Pruyn house offers a historic mansion with gorgeous seasonal gardens perfect for an outdoor ceremony and the large rustic Buhrmaster Barn for dinner and dancing. Plenty of room for tent events as well. (pictured LEFT)

Pat's Barn at Rensselaer Technology Park. (Troy, NY) An almost brand new venue. This fully restored barn provides the warmth and feel of a rustic barn, yet all the creature comforts one would want including heat and air conditioning. Private setting with outdoor patio for cocktail hour. (pictured BELOW)

Rensselaerville Meeting Center. (Rensseaerville, NY) Give your guests an entire weekend retreat here. It has an incredible view of the Catskill Mountains, overnight accomodates right on site and several buildings to accomodate your pre and post wedding festivities. No shortage of space for a tent event and organized group activities are onsite for all your out of town guests.

Historic Barns of Nipmoose. This place is the definition of country. Set in the heart of the agricultural landscape of Upstate NY, three full restored barns stand alone with a spectacular view of nothing but rolling hills. These historic barns are oozing character and would be an unforgetable location for a ceremony and reception. (pictured RIGHT & BELOW)

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.

Paris Style in Albany New York

It's been nine months since I was contacted by a sweet woman by the name of Lynn with the most charming of southern accents. Turns out she was the mother of a groom getting married in September in Albany, but she and her son were actually from Tennessee. Her story was quite special so I was instantly intrigued about working on this project. Her son Adam was in Iraq serving our Country in his second tour there. His time there had been way too eventful and there were moments when she and her husband didn't know if their son was alive. They were counting down the days that his tour would end and he would return home to marry his beautiful young bride Leah. Wanting to honor her son and celebrate his safe return and their new beginning, she had a vision to create an extraordinary rehearsal dinner to kick off their wedding weekend.

Since the couple would be headed to Paris for their honeymoon, we decided to create a Paris inspired event. Everything from the food to the decor would emulate this beautiful city. There was no better location than the 42nd floor Observation Deck of the Corning Tower in downtown Albany.

70 guests enjoyed a five course french menu complete with pre-dessert cheese course. The design details of the room were chic in a simple palette of black and white with pops of royal purple. Centerpieces featured glowing cylinders of purple delphinium topped off with damask lampshades for a sophisticated and somewhat masculine look. The room also featured a lounge area with custom slip covered benches with coordinating damask pillows.

Lynn spared no expense in creating personalized details. Signs displaying the names of cities significant to the couple were displayed in the windows and pointed guests in their direction with mileage to each one from Albany. Custom stationery was created for everything from menu cards to the signature cocktail signage. In lieu of traditional escort cards, a special french style bulletin board was created, on which hung small velvet pouches with custom escort tags displaying their table number. Each pouch contained quarters for the observation deck view finders and displayed the message "Enjoy the View".

This event was a so fun to plan and coordinate. Guests had an amazing time celebrating in this unique location. The bride and groom left elated and ready to walk down the aisle. By all reports, the wedding day of Adam and Leah went perfectly and the two are enjoying the "real" Paris! We wish them both a long happy life together and thank Adam for his service to our country. Another thanks to Lynn for trusting us with this special event. It was a pleasure.

Kudos to my team: Katelyn and Julie, to the chef and staff at Sudhexo for putting together a fabulous meal and to Ambiance Floral & Events for the beautiful centerpieces.

Event images provided by Lilly Zach Photography

They learned "how to tie the knot"

It was a fabulous day to talk weddings! On a sunny Sunday in August, Inspired Occasions hosted our first education seminar at the gorgeous Pat's Barn at Rensselaer Technology Park. I am proud to say that "How-to Tie the Knot: Planning Strategies for Today's D.I.Y. Bride" was a big hit.

So what did we do all day? The morning was alll about planning basics. We talked about setting priorities, creating timelines and tackling the dreaded BUDGET. Registrants were also treated to expert information from a few talented guest speakers. Michele Peters of Ambiance Florals & Events was on hand to take the intimidation out of floral decisions. A talk on photography options and trends was given by Yvette Wilson from Photography In Design. And because planning a wedding can at times be a stressful process, Certified Life Coach Diane Albano was on hand to teach some techniques for taking it down a notch.

The highlight of the day for me and for the seminar participants was our afternoon design workshop when we transformed a reception table from "Tired to Inspired" using some easy to follow design principles and incorporating a few creative do it yourself projects.

Feedback from everyone who attended was overwhelmingly positive. I know that I had an absolute blast talking about my favorite topic all day. Thanks to all those brides and their guests who participated. You guys were such a fun group!

I had a vision of a relaxed and informative day all about supporting brides on their planning journey. I am so grateful to my Inspired Occasions team for helping me bring that vision to life. Couldn't have done it without you guys!

With a successful debut behind us, we are looking forward to planning a winter session for all those brides newly engaged during the holiday and valentines seasons. Keep your eyes and ears open for new session information coming soon.

Inspired Occasions Launches TV Commercial

I am thrilled to announce the launch of Inspired Occasions' first television commercial! When I started this business two years ago, my plan was to let it grow organically and slowly over time. Well, it turns out I'm not nearly that patient and my dream to make event planning services the norm in the Capital District area was far more pressing than I had originally admitted. So, the next natural step to take was to start getting the word out through radio, print and television advertising. Hopefully this 30 second spot will give area residents a glimpse into the Company's values of excellent service and impecable style. Check it out! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y3xhZHQdBwk

How-to Tie the Knot - AGENDA

It's almost here! Inspired Occasions' very first bride education seminar, "How-to Tie the Knot: Planning Strategies for Today's D.I.Y. Bride", is happening on Sunday, August 29th at Pat's Barn at Rensselaer Tech Park. Time is running out to take advantage of great savings. Register before Friday, August 20th and receive $40 off your registration. Take advantage of this offer by registering by phone (518) 487-8128 or email @ info@inspired-occasions.com by Friday.

What an amazing day we have planned for our "do-it-yourself" brides. Here are the topics that will be covered in this fun and informative day:

Planning Basics

• Determining the priorities
• Developing a planning timeline
• Creating and tracking your budget
• How to select the best vendors for you
• Wedding day coordination
  

Floral Design: Do's/don'ts and insider tips (by Michele Peters, Ambiance Florals & Events)

Photography: What you need to know (by Yvette Wilson, Yvette Wilson Photography In Design)

Wedding Design

• D.I.Y. or NOT to D.I.Y.
• D.I.Y. Details Demo
• From Tired to Inspired: Creating a magical and affordable tablescape

Be a Stress-Free Bride (by Diane Albano, LEAD Consulting & Coaching)

Registration of $109 (after coupon) includes all planning materials, breakfast and lunch. And . . .
DON'T COME ALONE! BRING A FRIEND FOR FREE!

Can't wait to see you all there!

FREE Buff Bride Fitness Program

For all you CDPHP members out there, don't miss out on this awesome opportunity to whip you and your wedding party into shape before the big day!

It's "Buff Bridal Party" with certified instructor Teresa Burke.
Get your bridal party into shape with a mix of boot camp, Pilates, and core training. HealthPlex will provide you the motivation and training to get into the best shape of your life for the most important day of your life.

Members can register online www.cdphp.com or by calling the wellness line at 1-877-986-2373.

Best part . . . it's FREE!!!

FREE Bridal Event and Consultations - DON'T MISS OUT!

Join Inspired Occasions and many other talented wedding vendors for a FREE Bridal Show hosted by USA Weddings.

Monday, July 5, 2010
11:00 am - 3:00 pm
The Desmond

We will be offering FREE onsite consultations to anyone seeking some professional advice with their wedding plans. Also, as a BONUS, any brides in attendance at this show will receive $20.00 off their registration for our upcoming seminar, "How-to Tie the Knot; Planning Strategies for Today's D.I.Y. Bride."

You have the day off so come on out and great some great ideas for your wedding. See you there!

Khalid & Nadia - May 1, 2010

May was such a crazy month for Inspired Occasions that I'm just getting around to filling you all in on the details of the weddings we produced that month. I'll start with our first . . .

The wedding of Nadia and Khalid turned out to be a story of color and culture. The tall order for me was to design a wedding ceremony and reception that combined the significant elements of the Bride and Groom’s Pakistani culture with their more modern sense of style. I’m proud to say that in a short three month planning period, we went from having no design concept to an exotic affair for 300 guests fit for royalty. The color palette inspired by the preferences of the couple was that of rich jewels . . . sapphire blue, garnet red and rich orange.

The setting for this elaborate affair was The Albany Marriott. The day began with an intimate family-only ceremony. The modern bride opted to wear a fully length beaded white wedding outfit rather than the traditional red. However, to ensure that the traditional wedding color of red had a strong presence, the bride’s aisle and ceremony stage were carpeted in a rich garnet color. The couple exchanged their promises and rings on a glowing stage draped with sheer fabric and strands of cascading orchids.

Following the ceremony, Nadia and Khalid’s guests were treated to a feast for both the eyes and the stomach. Guests were welcomed into the grand ballroom which was decked out with sunset colored perimeter lighting, sapphire blue satin linens and tablescapes of dramatic glowing centerpieces, specialty folded napkins and golden chocolate favors. Authentic Pakistani music and food brought in from New York City ensured that the families’ heritage remained the focal point of the celebration. Highlights of the evening included a traditional dance performed by the women of the Groom’s family and a traditional Mirror ceremony.

It was an absolute pleasure to work with this fabulous couple. From the first time I met with this family, the planning process became a true collaboration between Bride and Groom, Planner and Mother. And together, we were able to put together the perfect day for this special couple!

Special thanks to my team and all the wonderful vendors who helped make it all happen: The Albany Marriott, Fine Affairs, Surroundings Floral, J&S Watkins, Glowing Faces (make-up), Epiphany of Hair Design, Kabob King, and DJ Farhad.

Let Them Eat Cake!!!

Ever heard someone say, “I’m really not a cake person?” Well that is not me! I love cake! So imagine my delight when I discovered an amazingly innovative local business that is filling what I consider a very important need . . . mobile cupcakes! Lorraine and John Murphy, co-owners of Bettie’s Cakes based in Saratoga Springs have created a fabulous bakery on wheels that brings their delicious cupcakes to wherever you need your fix. Their double-decker 1950’s style bus can seat 25 people and can be hired for any occasion. I’m thinking . . . surprise late night snack for a wedding reception, a sweet treat for the mitzvah or sweet sixteen guest of honor, Sunday breakfast . . . the options are endless!

As soon as I made this discovery, I realized it was imperative that I test out the product so that I could make an informed recommendation to my clients. Tough job, but I managed try four scrumptious designer cupcakes including Chocolate Peanut Butter, Key Lime and Red Velvet. My favorite was the Cosmopolitan which was a cranberry flavored cupcake with lime icing inspired by the release of the new Sex in the City movie. It was both adorable and delectable.

So I’m wondering which of my hip clients are going to be the first ones to surprise their guests with this mobile sweetshop? Also wondering . . . what other treats can we put on wheels?

You can visit the stationary Cupcakery Café at 454 Broadway, Saratoga, NY and get more information about the cupcake bus at http://www.bettiescakes.com/.

Meet the Planner

I am proud to debut my brand new “Meet the Planner” video. Thanks to the talented Cheryl Lighthall of CASL Productions, I’m able to introduce myself, my Company and the advantages of hiring an event planner to the masses.

One of the most important factors in choosing a planner is the personal connection you have with him or her. Therefore, knowing the personality, professional ethics and values of the planner are critical to making a good selection. It is who I am that makes me love what I do and plan thoughtful events. In this day and age when most people find their vendors online, its important for all vendors to have a strong web presence. However, since starting my Company two years ago, I’ve struggled with how to convey who I am to potential clients doing casual online research. A bio and two dimensional photographs just didn’t seem to do the trick.

So I’m thrilled to give everyone out there a glimpse of who they’re hiring when they choose Inspired Occasions for their special day. Take a look, share the word and spread the link!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IbPMHImxhmg

Think small to save BIG

In today's economy, I meet with more and more couples who are struggling to plan their dream weddings and not break the bank. Although I am always full of tips on how to multipurpose items or create inexpensive "DIY" decor, the bottom line is that the best way to lower your cost is to downsize your guest list. One great rule of thumb . . . This will be the best party you've ever been to in your life. If you're not prepared or wanting to take at least five minutes out of your evening to have a conversation with the person, you may want to leave them off the list.
The best way to conceptualize the "cost of people" is to actually figure out your per person cost for the wedding and multiply that number by the number of people that you might be on the fence about. How much could that amount buy you in additional special elements of the wedding such as upgrades in food or decor or better yet how many cocktails could it afford you on your honeymoon? The most important thing is that on your wedding day you are surrounded by those people who love you, have influenced you the most and will be a part of your new life as a married couple. Some of the best weddings I've ever been to are the ones that are relatively small yet elaborate in the details. With a smaller guest list, you can afford more of the extras that really make a wedding "WOW". The bonus is that with a scaled back guest list you have much greater flexibility in selecting a unique venue and the event itself takes on a cozier and more intimate feel that guests appreciate and remember. The bottom line . . . Think small and you'll save BIG!!!