From A Former Bride to Future Brides

Over the weekend, I was doing my usual wedding industry research on the web. I stumbled across a new blog Adventures In Wedding Planning. This post caught my attention because I’ve had similar experiences with potential clients. I so desperately want to work with them and help them plan their wedding. Not because I just love wedding planning but because I can see this person seriously needs the help. Even when they don't choose me, I hope that hire another wedding planner.

In this posting, Melissa of MasterPiece Wedding potential client didn’t hire her because they wanted to save money and in the end she regretted. These were the brides words not the planner by the way. Before you make another plan for your wedding, I strongly suggest you read this article. It will give some insight from a former bride that went through exactly what you are going through right now.

Deniesha Joseph
Couture Events by D
Designed by me, Just for you
www.coutureventsbyd.com
718.938.4713

Wedding Showers

If you live on the east coast you know that we’ve been having lots of rain. I’m sure many brides are worried that Mother Nature will throw a curve ball on their wedding day. But don’t panic; come up with a contingency plan. To prepare yourself for a chance of showers, pick up some wedding day umbrellas. That $5.00 umbrella just won’t due on your wedding day. For full coverage, be sure to purchase golf size umbrellas which are 60 inches in diameter.



You can also step it up with these lovely vintage umbrellas I found @ http://www.bellaumbrella.com/. Their great vintage umbrella will not be an eye sore on your wedding day. They also have an attachment you can purchase to add small bouquet to the end of the handle.











I also found this white satin umbrella from totes. Yes it’s satin but it’s also rainproof so don’t worry.

For personalized umbrellas, visit http://www.golfumbrella.com/ . You can add you names, date and message to the handles. This can double as utility and a great gift for your wedding part.

Happy Planning,

Deniesha Joseph
Couture Events by D
Designed by me, Just for you
http://www.coutureventsbyd.com/
718.938.4713

Wedding Etiquette

Lately I’ve come across some etiquette questions that I thought I’d share with all my brides out there. Just in case you were considering some of these options, here is your answer.

Evites – I love evites for small parties and casual gatherings but for a wedding I’m going to have to say no to this one. I know it saves paper and money but your wedding day is a big deal and your guest deserve a proper invitation. I know there are some green brides that want to save paper but there is a better way to go green. Check out these eco-chic invitations made by Bella Figura. They are beyond eco friendly. They use wind power, all of their invitations are made from 100% cotton and they donate 1% of their sales to environmental causes.

Monetary Gift Request – I know you don’t want a gravy bowl or monogrammed towel but you cannot put monetary gifts on your invitations. The purpose of inviting your friend and family to your wedding is not the gifts, that’s an added bonus. They are there to share in your special day and we should all be grateful for that. Most people know the general rule of thumb and yes you may end up with some gifts but it won’t be the majority. Trust me, I’ve been to enough weddings to know the outcome. I pretty can ensure you all that you will receive more monetary gifts than gravy bowls.

No Children – many couples do not wish to have children at their wedding which is understandable. However please do not put the words “no children” on your invitation. It’s blunt and rude to those who have children. A better way to phrase it is “adult reception”. This gives the hint to those with children that their children are not invited without hurting their feelings.

Now I’m all for it’s your day do it your way but there are some etiquette rules that will always apply when it comes to weddings. If you have a non-traditional idea that may cross the line of good etiquette, feel free to send your wedding idea to DJoseph@coutureeventsbyd.com and I’ll be happy to answer your question and provide you with an alternative.

Happy Planning,

Deniesha Joseph
Couture Events by D
Designed by me, Just for you
http://www.coutureventsbyd.com/
718.938.4713

Is This Thing On?

For every couple I work with, about one month before their wedding we have a meeting to discuss all the wedding day details. This meeting is to ensure all t’s are crossed and all i’s are dotted. We go over every single detail with ease but the one subject that always causes a bump in the road are the speeches. I always add it to the to do list but when it comes time to make the final decision, I get dead air. What I’ve come to learn is the couple is usually nervous about this portion of their wedding. They don’t want embarrassing stories told about them. They don’t want the speeches to go on for too long. Or they don’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings by not giving someone the opportunity to share some kind words. The speeches can be a tricky thing to figure out but don’t worry I have some solutions.

One way to decipher how to handle the speeches is to simple think about the kind of couple you are. Are you party people, are social people, are sentimental or do you shy away from the spot light. Also think about the people in your family and their personalities. You may have some family members that are shy or some who are waiting for the mic to come their way. These questions will guide your choice on how to handle the speeches. If you want to party as much as you can, then you will keep the speeches to the minimum. The bestman, maid of honor and the parents will do just fine. This will only take about 20 minutes. If you are on the sentimental side, you can have an open mic format but with a time limit. Let your DJ or MC know how long you want the speeches to go on (it shouldn’t be long then 30 minutes, you don’t want your other guest to get bored) and once the time is up the DJ can gracefully wrap it up and move on to the next portion of the wedding day festivities.

If you want a select few to give a speech, let the chosen ones know this before the wedding. This will give them time to prepare something. You don’t want anyone winging it at your wedding. This will be uncomfortable for you them and you.

If you want to avoid embarrassing stories coming out, have the speeches before the party gets started. Liquid courage may encourage some family members to say something they wouldn’t have said with a sober mind. You can’t avoid them all but this is sure to help.

Whether you decide to have assigned speeches or an open mic, one key piece of advice I always give to my clients is to have the speeches during dinner. All of your guest will be seated and you have their attention. Also you will get the most of your time so you can party the night away.

Happy Planning,

Deniesha Joseph
Couture Events by D
Designed by me, Just for you
http://www.coutureventsbyd.com/
718.938.4713

This Isn’t Your Mother’s Bridal Shower!!

(photo courtesy of betterhomesandgardens)

For today’s chic and fabulous bride, the traditional bridal shower just won’t cut it. In 2009, we are Prada purse carrying, blackberry having, internet savvy, super stylish women. Break free from the tradition and throw your friend an updated bridal shower she will never forget. When planning the bridetobe’s bridal shower, you should base the theme on her personality. Think of her favorite things from her past and present. Keep her personality in mind at all times and makes sure it shows throughout the shower. Is she a martini drinker? Doe she love shoes? What her favorite food? What’s her favorite movie? What does she love to do on a Saturday? These simple questions can help you with the direction of the shower theme. As the legendary Colin Cowie once said, “Love is in the details darlin”. Of course the traditional aspects of a shower can still be incorporated. The shower games and opening of the gifts are still the crowd’s favorite. Even if she's a traditional gal that wears pearls, you can still add a modern spin to it. By adding her personality, this gives the shower a more personal feeling and makes it unique from the traditional shower. Whatever you do just make sure it’s a shower the bride will always remember.

Most Popular Shower Themes

The Spa Theme - Host the shower at a spa or have the spa come to you for mani, pedi and back rubs.

The Sunday Brunch Theme - Have a Sunday Brunch at her favorite restaurant and have the guest wear hats.

The Martini Theme - Host a martini party with speciality cocktails with oversized martini glasses for the decor.

Unisex Bridal Shower - Invite the guys and make it a great party for the couple.

Happy Planning,

Deniesha Joseph
Couture Events by D
Designed by me, Just for you
http://www.coutureventsbyd.com/
718.938.4713

Ask The Planner - Cocktails or Mocktails?

Q: My fiancé and I are Christians and we do not drink alcohol at all. Most of our guests are Christians as well but some of our guests do drink socially. We do not wish to serve alcohol for our reception. All of our friends and family know we don’t drink so I think they will be fine with a non alcoholic reception. I want to serve non alcholic versions of popular drinks like daquiries and pina colodas but a couple of my friends are telling me to serve some alcohol. Also I don’t want my guest drinking and driving. Is this a good idea or will my guest be disappointed?

Thanks,

Soon to be Mrs. Browne

A: Well first congratulations on your engagement and I hope the planning process is going well. Your friends and family do respect your beliefs but you have to respect their choice as well. I’m sure when they visit your home; they do not expect to have a glass of wine. However this is not a small gathering of family and friends, this is the biggest party you will ever have. People do enjoy having cocktails at a wedding and they look forward to it. I think it’s best to serve wine and beer at the least. This will accommodate your guests that do drink. Your idea of coming up with non alcoholic cocktails is a great idea. Many frozen drinks can be done in a non alcoholic version, like pina colodas and daiquiris. Also, consider the time of day your wedding is taking place. If you’re having an evening wedding, there is an anticipation of alcoholic beverages. You may want to consider an early afternoon wedding. I think this will best suite the type of wedding you are having and people usually drink less early in the day. If you are still not convinced, think of it like this; if you were attending a wedding and the bride was a vegetarian, would you expect a vegetarian meal? Probably not right? It’s the same situation just a different element. I hope I was able to help you solve your planning dilemma.

Happy Planning,

Deniesha Joseph
Couture Events by D
Designed by me, Just for you
http://www.coutureventsbyd.com/
718.938.4713

You Don’t Need A Wedding Planner . . . . .

April Fools!! You should have known that was a joke being that I am a wedding planner!! I hear this all the time, “I can do it myself” or “My family can help me out” or “I can’t afford a wedding planner”. These are the biggest misconceptions brides have all the time. The truth is none of these statements are true and let me tell you why.

You cannot do it all yourself. If you have already started planning your wedding, you probably already realize how much goes into planning your wedding and how much time it takes. You may also realize how much you didn’t know about planning a wedding. The planning process is so much fun and if you are not having fun then you should rethink not having a planner. A professional wedding planner can advise you during the planning process. Your wedding planner will help you find the right vendors, help you chose a realistic budget, etiqutte advice and most importantly, put the fun back into planning your wedding. Another issue to think about is what is going to happen on your wedding day? You cannot be the bride and ensure everything is running according to plan. Do you really want to make phone calls to vendors while you do your makeup? I don’t think you do!! You and your fiancé should be relaxed and your only concern should be to focus on getting your ready for your wedding. So even if you want to plan your own wedding, you should consider investing in a planner for day of coordination services.

Your Aunt Susan throws great holiday parties but she is not a professional. We all have family members who are reliable and are great host/hostess but the truth is they are not wedding planners. They don’t know as much as you think they do. Planning a wedding takes much more than someone who casually host events for their friends and family. It takes a wedding professional to orchestrate the many details that go into planning a successful wedding. No offense to Aunt Susan but it takes a lot of know how to plan a wedding. When I first started out, it was because of my experience of planning parties for family and friends. However, I did a lot research and networking within the wedding industry before I started my company. I quickly realized there was a lot I needed to learn. Planning a wedding for 150 is not the same as planning a party for 50 of my closest friends and family. Also wouldn’t you like all of guest to feel like a guest? Let your family enjoy your wedding day because weddings are about your families too.

The cost of a wedding planner is feasible and worth every penny. Many couples still believe that hiring a wedding planner is a luxury, this is not true. Speaking from experience, I’ve worked with couples and their budgets ranged from 20k to 75k. In the end they all received the same quality of service. Of course there are wedding planners that you cannot afford but there are also many you can afford. Just like all your other vendors, shop around until you find the right one. Also most wedding planners have different packages to choose from and you can get the package that works best with your budget. Having a professional to oversee the most important day of your life is not a luxury but an investment.

Of course I may seem bias to the idea of hiring a wedding planner but this is not about me. It’s about me helping as many couples as I can even if you don’t choose me to be your wedding planner. When you hire a wedding planner, you are getting quality service, knowledge, professionalism, creativity, guidance, stress reliever, a personal assistant and a guarantee that someone has your best interest in mind at all times. I hope I have helped convince some of you that are on the fence and for those that weren’t even considering hiring a planner please reconsider!!


Happy Planning,

Deniesha Joseph
Couture Events by D
Designed by me, Just for you
http://www.coutureventsbyd.com/
718.938.4713

Brides Magazine March/April Issue

Brides, if you haven't picked up the latest issue of brides magazine yet, I strongly suggest you do so immediately!! I buy every wedding related magazine available and usually I don't have the time to thoroughly read through it but I had the time to do so yesterday. I had to take the train, which I don't get to do much of so I thought I'd bring some reading material for the ride. I'm so glad I did!! This issue is filled with great wedding tips and inspiration. I couldn't get wait to get back on the train so I could continue reading. Now if you ever taken the trains in NYC, you should know that getting on the train isn't a treat. So this should tell you how FAB this issue is. From cakes to honeymoons, you will find all the wedding inspiration you are looking for!! Stop, drop and go shop!!



Happy Planning,



Deniesha Joseph

Couture Events by D

Designed by me, Just for you

http://www.coutureventsbyd.com/

718.938.4713

Accomodating Children at Your Wedding

I came across this picture of me and I had to blog about it!! I was about 4 or 5 years old and this was my first wedding. I was the flower girl as you can see and I was the worse flower girl in the history of weddings!! I cried all the way down the aisle, I didn’t want to take any pictures and any pictures I did take, I had that face on. It was a running family joke for years and if anyone from my family sees the picture they will happily repeat the joke for you!! It’s ironic to me that this was my reaction to a wedding and now I’m a wedding planner!! Go figure! I would like to mention that the couple is still happily married.

Seeing this picture made me think of all the children that are either in weddings or invited to weddings. Let’s face it, weddings are generally for adults but if you having children attend your wedding then you should accommodate them as well. Providing a children’s tables filled with activities will keep them entertained and also give their parents a chance to cut a rug. You can provide a goody bag of coloring books, crayons, toys and of course something sweet! If you are having a lot of children, you may even consider hiring a “sitter” of some sort. Someone to monitor the children, play games with them or maybe keep them entertain in another room. I only make this suggestion if you are having enough children to full a table. If there will be one or two children, then a goody bag will do the trick. Whatever you decide, just don’t forget about the little ones!! They are your guest too!!

This little lady danced the day away!! She was the cutest little thing!!

Happy Planning,

Deniesha Joseph
Couture Events by D
Designed by me, Just for you
http://www.coutureventsbyd.com/
718.938.4713

Rich Bride, Poor Bride

I’ve been feeling under the weather these last couple of days so I’ve been spending a lot of time in bed with my laptop. This down time gave me an opportunity to catch up on some of my favorite wedding shows I love to watch and one episode in particular stuck out.

(photo courtesy of WeTv, click on photo to view Wetv Website and this episode's info)

Are you familiar with the show “Rich Bride Poor Bride” that comes on WeTV? Well the premise off the show is to show how couples plan their wedding on different budgets, usually small to average. On this episode, the couple Kevin and Lindsay were on a tight budget of $15,000. Lindsay was by far the cheapest bride I’ve ever seen but she had her reasons. However, her cheap ways almost cost her great memories of her wedding. If you are a budget bride, this is the episode for you!! It will help you put some things in prospective. Even the bride realized she made some mistakes and should have paid for certain services. In this economy, we are all trying to save but before you do, seek professional advice on where to skimp and where to spend. You do not want to look back and regret your wedding or be unhappy on your wedding day.

Married Away!!

Destination Weddings are becoming extremely popular. Many couples choose this route because for one let’s face it, it’s a vacation and who doesn’t love that. Two, many feel it’s easier than the traditional wedding. A destination wedding is a wonderful way to tie the knot but there is still planning involved. Here are some planning tips to help all my married away brides get started.

1) Send save the dates to your guest at least a year in advance. This gives your guest time to plan and save for the trip. Include your destination, the date (of course) and if possible the hotel accommodations.

2) Create a wedding website to update your guest on accommodation information, passport/visa requirements and the schedule of events that maybe taking place. Be sure to include your website on your save the dates. You can easily create a website on many wedding sites for free. http://www.theknot.com/, http://www.mywedding.com/, http://www.ourweddingday.com/

3) Do your research before making your final decision. Get recommendations and read reviews from other couples that have gotten married at the resort or venue. Also take a tour before booking. Don’t rely on the web for all your research.

4) Hire a wedding planner/coordinator in the destination you have chosen. They are familiar with the local vendors and can do the research on your behalf. Hiring a planner from your home town is also helpful and you get the one on one attention you may need. A good planner can plan a wedding any where!

5) Negotiate a group rate with for your airfare and hotel when booking for 10 or more guest.

Even though this is a destination wedding, there are some fundamental planning steps that cannot be over looked. Take a look at a my previous post on what to do when you first get engaged. http://coutureventsbyd.blogspot.com/2009/01/congrat-you-said-yes-so-now-what.html

Happy Planning,

Deniesha Joseph
Couture Events by D
Designed by me, Just for you
http://www.coutureventsbyd.com/
718.938.4713

Honeymoon Registries

(CoCo Reef Resort, Tobago)

I was on a short vacation last week to visit my mother in the Caribbean; Trinidad to be exact!! While I was there I was inspired by so many things but today I will start with Honeymoons!! Honeymoon registries that is!

Do you already live with your fiancé and don’t want to end up with 5 gravy bowls at your bridal shower? If so, a honeymoon registry is the perfect solution. Honeymoon registries have become very popular because today many couples are living together before they tie the knot. It’s also saves money and who doesn’t like a bargain? You can register for an upgrade to your honeymoon sweet, air miles, water sport activities or a romantic beach front dinner. The price range is great too. It gives your guest so much to choose from. There are many destinations to choose from as well. From exotic Africa to the romantic Caribbean, you can find a honeymoon registry. I love this idea because it saves you money, helps your bridal shower guests pick a great gift and it adds so much fun to your honeymoon. Here are some sites that offer these services:

http://www.travelersjoy.com/
http://www.thebigday.com/
http://www.thehoneymoon.com/

Location, Location, Location!!

Choosing a location for your reception is a big part of your wedding plans. 50% of your budget will go into your reception. Most of your wedding day will be spent in this location. Your choice should reflect the overall style of your wedding and it should work with your budget. These factors should be taken into consideration when choosing a location. Here are some tips to guide you in your choice.

Banquet Halls and Hotels:

The Swan Club, Roslyn Harbor New York

Pros: Banquet halls and hotels are a classic choice for weddings. They provide everything you need under one roof. Food, alcohol, linens, china and silverware!! It’s very convenient and you won’t have to worry about a thing.
Cons: There isn’t a lot of wiggle room for personalization. If the carpet is pink then you are stuck with pink carpet. Most venues do not allow changes to fixed objects. But not all is lost here; you can still make it your own by changing the linens and adding some lighting.
Who is this venue for: The couple that wants a traditional style wedding. Perfect for

couples with a large guest count because these venues can usually accommodate large parties.

Loft Spaces:

Studio 450, New York, NY

Pros: A loft space is a great venue for a wedding. You have an empty space to design any way you wish. Loft spaces are my favorite spaces to work with. You have total freedom to be creative.
Cons: The downside to loft spaces is you have to bring in everything. You must hire an off premise caterer and bartender. You also have rent linens, tables, chairs and silverware. Logistically, this can be a lot to do on the day of your wedding but with the right team of people it will go off without a hitch. You can also get a preferred vendors list to help you find everything you need.
Who is this venue for: The couple with a modern style and wants to make their wedding reflect their personal style.

Unconventional Venues:

Central Park Zoo, New York, NY(photo credits: New York Weddings.com)

Pros: If you want something different for your wedding, consider museums, vineyards, the zoo, a tent or even an aquarium. These sites add a unique element everyone wants for their wedding day.
Cons: Like loft spaces, you have to provide everything to accommodate your guest and this may include a portable kitchen and bathrooms.
Who is this venue for: The couple with an imagination and always dears to be different.

Happy Planning,

Deniesha Joseph
Couture Events by D
Designed by me, Just for you
http://www.coutureventsbyd.com/
718.938.4713

How Much Does That Cost?

Setting a budget is very important when planning a wedding. No matter the size of your budget, you should know how much you are willing to spend before you start spending. Many couples spend more than they would have liked and I believe it’s because they never really set a budget to begin with. Not only do you need to know how much you are willing to spend but you also need to know how to spend it. There are many elements that go into planning a wedding and they all come with a price tag. To help you allocate your funds, here is a chart that I use to help my clients allocate their budget.

Reception 50%
Photography 12%

Flowers/Decor 10%

Apparel 8%
Transportation 5%

Rings 4%

Music 3%

Stationary/Printing 2%

Gifts & Favors 2%

Ceremony 2%

Misc/Accessories 2%

Another helpful way to allocate yourbudget is to prioritize the things that are important to you. List all the categories in order of importance to you. The items at the top of your list are where you can splurge and the items at the bottom are where you can be more flexible with your selection.

Remember no matter the size of your budget; keep the number in mind when you are searching for venues and vendors. You should know how much to allocate to each category before you agree to anything. If you go over in one category, you should be willing to make up the difference in other areas to help keep you within your budget. If you saved in one category, you can take that extra money and splurge on something else!!

Setting A Date

As I mentioned yesterday, I’m dedicating some time to all the newly engaged couples. So this week is all about tips and advice for them!!

For 2008 the most popular date to get married was 08.08.08. This year 09.09.09 will not be as popular because it’s a Wednesday but I’m sure some couples will choose this date. A Wednesday wedding is very uncommon but there are some of benefits to this 09.09.09 date. A week day wedding cost much less than a weekend wedding. Most venues, if not all have a lower fee during the week. If you are planning a wedding on a budget, this may be the date for you. I know of you are thinking, A Wednesday Wedding, no way!! But I think this can be a wedding all of your friends and family will remember. Your wedding is already unique, it’s on a Wednesday!!

Here are some other dates to consider:

Holiday Weekends:
Pro: You can have a Sunday wedding with a Saturday night feeling. Most people don’t have to work the next day so you can have that evening wedding you always wanted.
Con: Some people plan vacations during those weekends so you risk the chance of losing some guests. Also if you have out of town guest, traveling during the holiday is usually cost more.

Friday or Sunday Weddings:
Pro: The fee for your venue of choice is usually lower than a Saturday. These days will help save a couple of dollars per head.
Con: For Friday, people are you usually coming straight from work and you may run the chance of people running late and you may not want to inconvenience your guest. For Sunday, people have to work the next day if it’s not a holiday weekend. Bottom line it’s not Saturday and some people just like the Saturday night wedding.

Saturday Weddings:
Pro: Saturday night is the most popular day to get married. Your guest are available to attend and it’s the most convenient day of the week.
Con: It’s the most expensive day to get married. The average Saturday night wedding cost $150.00 per person, you can have the same menu on a Friday or Sunday for an average cost of $100.00 per person. That's a big savings!!

Are you getting married in 2010? Well consider this date . . . . . . .

It has a nice ring to it and it's a Sunday!!

Happy Planning,

Deniesha Joseph
Couture Events by D
Designed by me, Just for you
http://www.coutureventsbyd.com/
718.938.4713

Congratulations!! You Said Yes, So Now What?

Congrats to all my newly engaged couples out there!! I’m sure many of you are still on a high and your mind is racing with ideas for your big day. I’m sure you have a lot questions and concerns too but don’t panic! Take a deep breath and keep reading . . . . . .

For newly engaged couples, they usually have a hard time getting started with their wedding plans. They are not sure what to do first, where to begin or when to begin. To help all my newly engage couples, here are the items you should focus on now:

Nine Months and Earlier

1) Choose the type of wedding you want: This will set the tone of your wedding. All of your decision will be based off of this choice. Do you want a traditional, contemporary or theme wedding? It’s important to know what you want before you start your purchasing items and booking vendors. You want to make sure all the elements of your wedding have a cohesive look and feeling.
2) Choose a wedding date: This is an easy one and it goes without saying but choosing a date can be a little more calculated than you think. It may be a date of sentimental value, the date that fits your busy life style or if you’re budget conscience it will be the date that gives you the best bang for your buck.
3) Determine a budget: Very important!! Your budget has an effect on all of your wedding plans. No matter how big or small your budget is, it’s important to know how much you would like to spend. You don’t want to start booking anything without knowing your budget because you may choose one element that will take you over budget before you get a chance to book any of the others.
4) Consolidate a guest list: Before you book a venue, you need to know if the space can accommodate the number of guest you are having or that you will have enough guests to meet the spaces minimum. Also your guest count will go hand and hand with your budget. The more guests you are having, the more money you probably spend on your wedding.
5) Reserve your ceremony and reception site: Once the first four decisions are made, you can move on to site selections. It’s important to book as early as you can because many places go fast. Remember there are only 52 weekends a year!!

I hope this helps all the newly of the new engaged couples out there. Stay tune for more planning tips, advice and inspirations. During the month of January, I will be focusing on advice for the newly engaged so be sure to check in for those. While you plan your wedding, just remember to have fun with it, be happy and enjoy every moment of the planning process!!

Wedding Coordinator Vs. Wedding Planner

I just read a very helpful blog on the difference between a wedding coordintor and a wedding planner on www.weddingbeepro.com and I thought I would share with all the brides out there who are looking for a wedding planner or a wedding coordinator. This blog helps distinguish the difference between the two and helps you get a better idea on deciding what you need for your wedding day.

I consider myself to be a wedding planner and designer. My services provide guidance and support through out the wedding planning process. I advise my clients on every aspect of their wedding. From choosing the right location to the perfect shade of purple!! I am a designer for two reason; 1) I have a backround in floral design and I've created all my past clients floral designs for their wedding and 2) Designing a wedding is not just about flowers, it's about taking a vision in bringing it to life by including all of the elements of a wedding. You have to consider color palettes, location, attire and stationary. All of these elements tie into the design aspect of wedding planning.

So brides as you search for a wedding planner or coordinator, this blog will help you make the choice that's best for your wedding plans. Take a look at the article from here:

http://www.weddingbeepro.com/2008/12/17/wedding-coordinator-vs-wedding-planner/

Happy Planning,

Deniesha Joseph
Couture Events by D
Designed by me, Just for you
http://www.coutureventsbyd.com/
718.938.4713

Ask The Planner

Q: Hi Deniesha, My finance and I come from huge families, do you think it's possible to have an elegant wedding with 200 guests on a budget of 15k. Please let me know if you think I'm daydreaming.

Thanks a bunch!

A: I tell all my clients anything is possible depending on the choices you make. Like most brides, I'm sure you want a wedding that you and your guest will remember forever. My honest opinion is you will more than likely have to increase your budget by at least another 10k. But I do have some tips on how to save.

1) Choose an off day for your wedding date. The most expensive day to get married is a Saturday night. Fridays and Sundays are usually cheaper at most venues. Even consider a weekday if possible. An early Sunday afternoon wedding is the cheapest and most convenient option.

2) Keep your menu and bar selection simple. Instead of serving 3 choices for your main course (chicken, beef or fish) just serve chicken. Most people eat chicken and if you have some guest with special dietary needs, like vegetarians, you can ask your caterer or venue to have those meals prepared as well. There is usually no extra cost for this. If you are getting married in a venue where you can bring in your own caterer, have a buffet instead of a sitdown dinner.

3) Be a DIY!! If you are a crafty person, take on some of the wedding day projects yourself, like invitations, programs or favors. There are many DIY kits out there that are fabulous.

4) Look out for sales! When shopping for items like your wedding day attire, look out for sample sales and trunk shows. You can get a beautiful dress at a great price.

5) Shop around and be creative. When you are searching for vendors, like photographers, videographers, or DJ's look around for vendors that may be starting out in the wedding industry. They are willing to offer their services at a discount or sometimes free in exchange for exposure, a recommendation and the opportunity to increase their portfolio. Be sure to make an appointment to view their portfolio and if possible read some reviews from former clients.

6) Track your spending. Keeping track of your spending will help you stay on top of your budget at all times. So when making your selections you will always know how much money you can spend on that particular item. I strongly recommend this because as time goes on you book vendors, you buy things and before you know it, you are way over budget.

Many brides on a budget think they cannot afford a wedding planner but that is not that case. Hiring a planner will save you time and money. A good wedding planner will help you find vendors that suit your budget and give you guidance along the way. I've worked with array of budgets so I know exactly what you are going through.

I hope I was able to help and feel free to contact me if you ever have any more planning dilemmas.

Happy Planning,
Deniesha Joseph
Couture Events by DDesigned by me,
Just for you
http://www.coutureventsbyd.com/
718.938.4713

Holiday Save The Dates

I’m a big fan of getting double use out of one item for weddings. This helps save a couple of dollars and these days every single penny counts!! So this year when you send out your holiday cards, have them double as save the date cards as well. You’ll spread holiday cheer while getting the word out about your wedding. I found these holiday cards at www.weddingpaperdivas.com

Happy Planning,

Deniesha Joseph
Couture Events by D
Designed by me, Just for you
http://www.coutureventsbyd.com/
718.938.4713

The Queen of Wedding Cakes – Sylvia Weinstock!!

I had the honor and pleasure to interview the queen of cakes, Sylvia Weinstock of Sylvia Weinstock Cakes. I’ve been a fan of hers for a very long time so the having the opportunity to meet her was like a teenager meeting the cast of High School Musical.

I was invited to her office where she does all of her baking and decorating. It’s a quaint brick building and as soon as you step in the elevator, you can smell the aroma of cake and sugar. When you see Sylvia the first thing you see is her inviting smile and her trademark glasses. The office was in full swing at 10:00 am. She was on the phone making arrangements for a cake that was being delivered to The Middle East and working with Mr. Fabulous himself, Preston Bailey!! What a way to start the day but it seems liked the norm in this office. I wanted to stay all day but it was clear they were busy so a settled for a little conversation and a picture of Mrs. Weinstock!


After 20 years in the business, she is still involved on a daily basis and works almost 7 days a week. I guess you would have to when your cakes travel all across the world. I always wondered how all of her cakes were so beautiful and so unique from the other. When I asked her what inspired her, she simply stated “everything”. She doesn’t follow any trends; she said to me the bride is the trend. Whatever the bride is inspired by then she uses that for her inspiration. Mrs. Weinstock did offer brides some words of wisdom. “Be sure to use a reputable and a board of health certified baker. Be sure to get a sample and confirm all arrangements”. Words of wisdom from the best in the business so take key brides!

Sylvia Weinstock also has a book out called Sylvia Weinstock’s Sensational Cakes. It’s filled with beautiful pictures, recipes and back stories straight from Sylvia.
Thank you Mrs. Sylvia Weinstock for taking the time to chat with me!! You made a dream come true!!

Happy Planning,

Deniesha Joseph
Couture Events by D
Designed by me, Just for you
http://www.coutureventsbyd.com/
718.938.4713