So This is Bliss :: A Northwest Wedding Blog by Luxe Event Productions: April 2011

Vendors You'll Totally Love! - - -Because We Do!

Dear Luxe Friend,

So many people ask us "so, who are your preferred vendors?" and "how do you pick you preferred vendors?". . .to which we say, that's easy, it's about the relationship and personality. (of course their skill) but above all we pride ourselves on the relationship build.

Your wedding is such an important day that you, and we, want you to jive with all your vendors on-site the day of your wedding.

That's why we decided to show and tell a bit...show you and tell you about who we think are "Luxe bride and groom worthy" and who we think you should work with, and why.

Over the next few weeks we will be sharing a bit about our Luxe Vendor Family of cool people we work, or like to work with. We often refer our Luxe Brides and Grooms to people we know who are down to earth, skilled, fun-loving, funny, easy-going, authentic people who LOVE their craft.

Hugs and kisses! -Misty Damico, Founder Luxe Event Productions

...like this Portland floral designer,
Hailey of Zest Floral & Event Design.

What's not awesome about Hailey? She's such a sweetie, every single time we're around her she's got a smile on her face. Happy and charming, her infectiously loving and generous nature makes you wish you were her BFF. She's the kind of vendor that you never want to leave when with and she's incredible at what she does. Perfect choice for brides looking for a floral designer. Perfect choice of a vendor to call your "preferred"

Here's what we asked her and here's what she said

Tell us what type of services you offer?

Zest is a full-service floral and event design studio specializing in weddings. We work with brides to create gorgeous custom floral and décor. In addition to the flowers, we also help with overall event styling (linen rental, draping, custom installations, etc.).

Photo by Holland Studios
Coordinated by Bridal Bliss

What type of weddings do you love to work with the most?

What we love most about weddings is that no two are the same. Whether it’s an urban-chic lounge reception, a rugged-elegant farm affair, a classic ballroom gala or a casual outdoor wedding, we love working with couples to create a wedding that’s unique to them.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

Oh my gosh, everywhere! We’re always watching runway trends, color forecasts, fashion and interior design, floral and wedding trends, etc., for fun ideas to incorporate into our work. Most often, however, the inspiration comes from the couple. We encourage brides to bring magazine tear-outs, photos, favorite colors, flowers, family heirlooms, etc. We then piece these elements together to create a cohesive vision.

Photo by GH Kim

A bit of history on the company?

I've always loved the event world, especially floral and decor. Growing up, my mom used to do flowers, and I'd often help her, which was where I got my first exposure. After graduating from college, I worked at a PR/social marketing agency, and would do freelance floral and event design on weekends. I started getting more and more requests, and finally realized I couldn't juggle the two. I decided to follow my passion and start Zest! That was January 2010, just over a year ago.

We had an incredible first year with lots of really fun weddings and events, and a number of media spotlights (including Oregon Bride Magazine, Weddings Portland Style, KOIN Studio 6, The Wedding Chicks, Portland Style Unveiled, The Lake Oswego Review and The West Linn Tidings).

With our second wedding season on the horizon, we couldn’t be more excited. We have an insanely fun summer ahead with weddings almost every weekend! We’ve hired another designer and brought on several freelancers. Equally exciting, we’ve also moved into a new, super-adorable studio! Details about our grand opening party are soon to come.

Photo by Powers Studios

How does your consultation process work?

When we meet with brides for the first time, we encourage them to bring photos, color swatches, magazine tear-outs, anything else they’ve been collecting. We talk through their wedding vision, what they like, what they don’t like, etc., so we can get an idea of their style. After the initial consultation, we send the couple a proposal with a cost estimate and summary of what we’ve discussed.

Photo by Powers Studios

I wanna book you to do all my floral, how do I start the process?

Included with the initial proposal will be an event agreement/contract. To reserve your date, return the signed event agreement and initial deposit.

What trend are you loving right now?

We love all the personal touches that we’re seeing incorporated in weddings. Whether it’s late-night voodoo doughnuts, customized programs, nontraditional centerpieces, unexpected venues, transportation, etc.

Thank you so much for spotlighting us! Can’t wait to do some FAB Luxe-Zest weddings! xo Hailey

MEET HAILEY! VISIT HER SITE! GET TO KNOW HER!
http://www.zestfloral.com/ | hailey@zestfloral.com | 503- 887-1544
Visit ZEST on Facebook too!

Luxe Find:: What a Romantic Bouquet!

Sometimes you just come across something that is so beautiful you just have to share it.

This bouquet just caught my eye while on Style Me Pretty -I was actually looking for inspiration for my own event (more on that in a later post)...I think this bouquet is so romantic with the peonies, lavender, dusty miller and garden roses -I really like seeded eucalyptus in floral arrangements too, so much so that I just had to share. This pretty bouquet is from a Connecticut wedding photographed by Justin Marantz.

Take a peek, the event is quite charming.

Enjoy.

Inspired by Color:: An event design unlike any other

More often than not we meet brides who just want to go with the white or ivory linen their venue provides, sure it may be free but will it look like this?!

Be inspired by COLOR! Live a little!

Images found on We Heart it, via Design Sponge

Save the Date:: May 15th for Weddings of the World! Portland's First Ever Multicultural Wedding Show

I admit I am a sucker for a traditional wedding and even more so for a cultural wedding full of timeless traditions which is why it's so exciting that Portland finally has it's own multicultural wedding event coming up next month -May 15th! Cultural weddings are so beautiful in all their traditionalism and flare.

If you love weddings at all then you must attend Weddings of the World at the Sheraton Hotel on May 15th.

I'm particularly found of Indian weddings. The style and fashions are what intrigues me. So, in honor of the first annual Weddings of the World Indian Showcase we have compiled 8 different traditional Saree wraps for today's modern Indian Bride.

A little post about the cultural fashions of Indian weddings...Since many cultural wedding dresses are full of color I can't help but to be mesmerized by their bold looks. Sequins, mirror, embroidery, deep passionate reds and fine silks...just beautiful.

According to Wedding Sutra these are the current trends in modern Indian Wedding fashions::

Newer shades of red are ‘in’
Dark burgundy, gold, cherry red, aqua green, old rose pinks are colors of the season
The embroidery is intricate, in dull antique gold and metallic with very little crystal
Mukaish, mirror, gota and pearls work is also in
Silk and brocades are back, chiffons and georgettes continue to be popular

Just in case you don't know:: A sari or saree or shari is a female garment in the Indian Subcontinent. A sari is a strip of unstitched cloth, ranging from four to nine meters in length that is draped over the body in various styles. The most common style is for the sari to be wrapped around the waist, with one end then draped over the shoulder baring the midriff.

A Wedding Sari is:: A wedding sari is the traditional wedding dress of Indian women. The sari is traditionally red, with golden embroidery

Found on Wedding Sutra, these 8 different Sari drapes are each beautiful and can reflect a different region's tradition.

Each one of these styles can be found on Lakme Salon's Site.

Pictured from Left to Right::

1. Devdas Style Drape
2. Maharani Style Drape
3. Northern Pride Drape
4. Indo Western Style Drape
5. Western Innovative Drape
6. Classic Indian Drape
7. Northern Pride Drape
8. Mumtaz Style Drape

If you are in the market for a stunning Sari or Indian Wedding Gown then check out some of these bridal designers who are producing some of the worlds most breath taking Indian Bridal Lines::

RSVP for Weddings of the World today! It's FREE!

...A wedding show that will fill over 22,500 square feet of space in three separate ballrooms into an inspirational journey.

Attendees will be greeted and offered their wedding passports, which will serve as their entry form into the many prizes including vacation packages with airfare and hotel covered as they get their stamps around the world showcases.

For more info: http://weddingsoftheworld.blogspot.com/

Happy Easter! Christ is Risen!

Image via My Heart

A Real Luxe Production :: Rhiannon & Bill's Wedding has been featured!

Rhiannon and Bill had the quintessential city chic wedding, with vibrant colors and custom details everywhere! And they were just featured on Style Unveiled! It's no surprise as their team of vendors (listed below) all brought their "A" game to make Rhiannon and Bill's day an urban chic masterpiece!

The sweetest part (to us, at least) were the kind words Rhiannon shared about her experience with our Luxe Team. She was such a gem! Loved working with her, every step of the way. She has sophisticated taste, original ideas and a calm and trusting demeanor.

{Click on the image below to take you to the Style Unveiled feature!}

Here are a few photos from Rhiannon's wedding that we loved the most. Like this first one of her and her maids -these girls ROCKED! They were so helpful can cared so much about Rhianon's perfect day. They were like an extension of our team, always there to help. Good friends like these are few and far between.

Rhiannon infused her grandparents into the event like many do, but these two were too sweet for words.

A simple ceremony with lots of love...what more do you need?

ALL photos were taken by the incredible Portland Wedding Photographer: Ashley Forrette Photography

Venue: The Gerding Theater

Invitations: Bespoke Designs

Florist: Fleur Bliss

DJ: Mobile Music Entertainment

Catering: Simpatica Catering and Dining

Cake and Cupcakes: Bakery Bar

Cinematographer: Vivid Wedding Films

Wedding Coordinator: Luxe Event Productions

Bride's Dress: J Crew

See more of Rhiannon and Bill's day by visiting Ashley Forrette's Blog & the Style Unveiled Feature.

And you MUST watch their wedding film trailer by Vivid Wedding Films! If you are considering a videographer, stop "considering" and DO IT! You will never regret it!

Rhiannon+Bill | Trailer | Portland Center Stage | Portland, Oregon from Vivid Wedding Films on Vimeo.

Real Luxe Bride & Groom :: Bri and Chris are getting married!

The very best part about being a wedding coordinator is making new friends. I think it's safe to say that every vendor would think the best part of their work with a client is getting to make a new friend out of the relationship. Not every client becomes your BFF but many do stay your buddy long after their big day, and Bri and Chris happen to be one of those clients who we just can't wait for the wedding to be here so we can actually hang out and spend some non-wedding time together.

Love these two. They were truly meant for each other. Both are so kind, light-hearted, totally down to earth and genuinely authentic people. It's an honor to coordinate their wedding.

Bri and Chris are full service wedding clients of ours and their rustic and charming NW wedding will be one for the books! Rich deep purples with clean and modern sliver...mouth watering wines and a dinner menu for the foodie at heart...

Bri and Chris recently had their engagement session with Portland Wedding Photographers, I and M Photography. It had been raining so much lately that I know it was hard for them to settle on a date, it just kept raining and not to mention it's been freezing! But nonetheless I and M did a fab job on their sesh and they look just adorable!

This one below is my personal Favorite! Bri's ring is vintage and just a stunner! Excited for those close up wedding photos to come so we can show off just how beautiful it is. We'll share their story in depth when the wedding actually happens this May, until then you can peek in on their e-sesh and get to know them a bit.

Bri and Chris plan to wed at Gorge Crest Vineyard and let me tell you, if you have yet to tour the property and are looking for a NW Wedding Venue -they you MUST head up to Gorge Crest and take look, you WILL be pleasantly surprised at all they offer for the price! Promise.

To see more of Bri and Chris's engagement session with Portland Wedding Photographer, I and M Photography CLICK HERE.

Luxe Vendors You'll Totally Love! - - -Because We do!

Dear Luxe Friend,

So many people ask us "so, who are your preferred vendors?" and "how do you pick you preferred vendors?". . .to which we say, that's easy, it's about the relationship and personality. (of course their skill) but above all we pride ourselves on the relationship build.

Your wedding is such an important day that you, and we, want you to jive with all your vendors on-site the day of your wedding.

That's why we decided to show and tell a bit...show you and tell you about who we think are "Luxe bride and groom worthy" and who we think you should work with, and why.

Over the next few weeks we will be sharing a bit about our Luxe Vendor Family of cool people we work, or like to work with. We often refer our Luxe Brides and Grooms to people we know who are down to earth, skilled, fun-loving, funny, easy-going, authentic people who LOVE their craft.

Hugs and kisses! -Misty Damico, Founder Luxe Event Productions

...like this Portland wedding photographer,
Emily of Emily G Photography.

She's one of the kindest people we know and work with. Her spirit is contagious and approachable and her clients love her. She quickly became a friend and has been a dear one ever since the very first time we had happy hour together, in 2009, at Mother's Bistro. She's talented, supportive, quirky, conversational, loving and just a true gem.

Here's what we asked her and here's what she said

Tell us what type of services you offer?

I am a wedding and baby photographer, and I have the best job in the world. I get to hang out with people and capture the happiest families with my camera. I also do boudoir and maternity sessions celebrating beautiful ladies.

What type of weddings do you love the most?

Oh that is hard, I would have to say a wedding where the couple really brings their personality in. I love the little details, from the shoes to the table décor. Details can really show off peoples individuality. But I guest most important would have to be the fun factor, when the couple sets up the event to be fun and full of love I always have a great time.

Where do you get your inspiration from?

I draw inspiration from many things. I have had some great mentors both locally and online. One word of advice a great photographer once told me was “look for the light, everything else is secondary” I try and follow that rule. I think some of my most creative & favorite photos have happened because I have thought about light first.

Why did you become a Photographer?

I became a photographer for many reasons. I have always loved the art form and wanted to work in a career where creativity was a main component. I would say the main reason I went into business for my self would be my kids. I wanted to work for my self so I could set my own hours and be there for my little ones.

How does your consultation process work?

When people contact me about shooting their wedding I first send out my information packet & price list. I want to make sure I am the right fit for people and not waste anyone’s time so I get it all out there to start with. After that we meet for coffee or a drink and just chat. I really believe you have to click with your photographer before you book them. Lets be honest, I am going to follow you around with a camera for 8-10 hours on the biggest day of your life. It is kind of important we like each other. ;o)

If I wanna book you to capture my dream wedding, how do I start the
process?

After we meet and chat I have a standard deposit and contract, to sign, that’s all. From there we set up the engagement session (I do a complimentary engagement session for all my couples, more time to get to to know each other!) and other details of wedding coverage.

(This image below is from a Luxe Wedding! See it HERE)

What are your top 5-10 tips for brides and grooms regarding their
photography on the day of?

1.) Hire a planner, you really do not want to be lugging around chairs and worrying about the timing of your wedding day. Let someone else do it and you will have more time for fun.

2.) Have your DJ or venue set up some fun lighting in your reception area. It can really make dancing photos more fun and vibrant.

3.) Keep lighting in mind when planning your schedule, if you want pretty sunset photos make time in your day to go get them! A sunset walk with your new spouse mid reception can be a
romantic break. :o)

4.) Wear comfortable underwear, shoes and hair. It is a LONG day, you should be beautiful, yet comfortable. You can always change into the 4 inch hot heels for photos, no one will ever know you are rocking the flip flops under your dress!

5.) Remember it is your day, not your mom’s, your sister’s or friends, yours. If you really want donuts instead of cake, do it! You only do it once, make it about you two, and your love. Have Fun! This day should be about love & joy, enjoy it!

What trend are you loving right now?

Voo Doo Donuts! Either in place of the cake or for a late night snack. Donuts are totally the new cupcake.

-Thanks Misty and the whole Luxe Team having me! I just adore all of you! Xo em

MEET EMILY! VISIT HER SITE! GET TO KNOW HER!
www.emilygphotography.com | emily[at]emilygphotography.com | 503.936.2922
Emily's on Facebook and Twitter too!

Be You, Be Original :: Playful Patterns and Color!

PATTERNS!!! YES! Brilliant idea and completely unique and original. You know you like it.

Images found on My Heart, Via Wedding Chicks

Audrey and Ben's wedding is so fun and playful, to see more images head over to Wedding Chicks!

...like "fun and playful"?

Save the DATE October 21st for COMMITTED! Portland's Alternative Bridal Event, curated by Luxe Event Productions and Presented by the Party Place.

Luxe Find :: Mos Ball Table Top Numbers

Maybe I just like to say the word "ball". . . but this table top number designed moss ball caught my eye awhile back and we think it's a totally cool and NW thing to do, so here it is. . .a Luxe Find that is cost effective and makes a statement.

Image found on My Heart, via Jose Villa

Luxe Idea :: Games and Design

Get CREATIVE with your guests and have fun with your wedding event!

...Like this interactive table top menu below...Oregon Bride Magazine did a really cool feature on local Portland Designers that created some really fun Interactive Wedding Invites that encourage your guest to play along. Visit Oregon Bride Magazine online to check them out.

Image found on We Heart it, via Design Sponge

Inspired by Design

Images found on My Heart, via Mayan Rocks

Luxe Find:: Kate Spade "Wedding Belles and Whistles"

Well we all love Kate Spade bags but have you ever ventured to their website to see what other lovelies they have? If not then we suggest you click the image below and take a look!

Kate Spade has introduced a new line called "Wedding Belles (and whistles)" and their 'accoutrements' are darling. Little white cocktail dresses, shoes and trinkets for your big day. All very classic in design and vibrant in color. My favorite is the "Mrs" necklace, surly a must have post wedding....