Ring in 2012 in Style

When it comes to New Years Eve parties, nothing can be more stressful. There is always so much pressure to host a flawless event and the thought of starting a new year on a bad note is terrifying to most people. Here are some tips from SD Events to help you ring in 2012 in style:

• Innovative Decor. Playing with New Years themes can be a difficult task. We suggest using a clock motif throughout all your decor choices for your party. Try plastic clocks in any colors that fit your theme as a charger for your dinner table. Using clear glass plates on top would really showcase the wonderful design element. For a more understated version of this idea, try watch centerpieces. Mix in your favorite watches with gorgeous florals for a unique and timeless centerpiece.
• Midnight Snack. New Years Parties are infamous for going late into the New Year. Even people who never stay out late will make an exception for an unforgettable night. Try the new trend of a late night menu at your event. Instead of stuffy hors d'oeuvres, opt for the classics, pigs in a blanket and delicious sliders with various condiments. Your stomach, and your guests will be thanking you for the menu to remember. 
• Start A New Tradition. In China children are given red envelopes that are filled with money on the New Year. Try something like this at your event. Instead of filling the envelopes with cash, fill them with chocolate or little candies. These envelopes can typically be bought at a Chinese convenience store. You could also use these beautiful red envelopes as escort cards! In Russia, New Years is one of the most important holidays of the year. Instead of resolutions, its a Russian tradition to make a wish on New Years Eve. This wish is written down on a piece of paper and burned on a candle. The ashes are then mixed in a glass of champagne and sipped throughout the night. Not only is this a fun, unique idea to try, it could also serve as your party's signature drink. 

SD Events wishes you all a healthy, happy, and prosperous New Year. Be safe and have the night of your life!

Grace Ormonde Photo Shoot

We are so proud and humbled to have this tabletop be selected as part of Grace Ormonde Wedding Style New England Magazine this issue!  The photos are stunning and Newport's Rose Cliff Mansion was the perfect backdrop.  Everyone involved did such a fabulous job!  Special thanks to Mimosa Flowers for collaborating with us as well as Ruth Fischl in New York and table tops settings provided by Shreve, Crump and Low, Boston!  Beautiful photo credit to M.Benedict Verley Photography in Providence.

Happy Holidays from SD Events!

While in the midst of Channukah and Christmas fast approaching SD Events would like to wish all of you a very happy holiday season and an eventful and prosperous 2012.  Here are some ideas to make your holiday celebrations absoulutely fabulous and an event to remember.

Signature cocktails are always a great idea no matter what occasion you are hosting.  Try Rudolph's Bellini, a simple flute of champagne with a red maraschino cherry dropped in for garnish.  All of us at SD are trying this one at our holiday parties.

As for a New Years parties we recommend having a new twist on the New Year's Resolutions that no one ever keeps.  Have all of your guests write down a resolution they have had in the past and never followed through with and then throw them in the fireplace.  This will be a fun activity as well as a good laugh to share with all your guests.

No matter what you are planning, remember the season is about family and friends so relax and enjoy yourself!

Gorgeous Cape Wedding

On an unseasonably warm weekend in early October, SD Events coordinated a beautiful wedding at The Chatham Bars Inn on the Cape.  The bride and groom could not have asked for a more beautiful day to begin their new like together as Mr. and Mrs.  Guests were given the most amazing backdrop to watch as the couple exchanged vows.  There was not a cloud in the sky and the sea breeze coming in from the Atlantic kept everyone comfortable and able to fully enjoy the ceremony.  The bride chose a gorgeous white gown complete with a simple train that looked gorgeous and perfect for the beach wedding, while the bridesmaids wore ocean blue dresses that mimicked the already stunning background.

Following the ceremony the bride and groom took a stroll through the dunes and onto the beach for some more scenic photos.  David Tucker Photography always takes gorgeous pictures and makes the couple feel at ease on such an eventful and busy day.  Once the new couple was announced they were able to enjoy the party and the unbelievable decor.  The color palette was clean and simple yet very elegant.  White tulip and rose centerpieces, designed by Lilacs Floral Design, atop crisp white linens and china allowed the impeccable sunset over the ocean to shine through as the ultimate statement piece.

We love weddings at Chatham Bars Inn, not only for the incredible staff but for the beauty that the mere venue has to offer!

Giving Back: The Italian Home for Children

Here at SD Events we love to support local charities that are doing everything they can to give back to the community and at-risk populations.  The Italian Home for Children, in Jamaica Plain caught our eye because of the amazing work they do for children in the Boston area.  Since 1919 The Italian Home has been helping children ages 4-14 who suffer from mental instabilities and issues that have been brought on by awful experiences in their personal lives, be it at school, at home or in the community in which they were raised.  It offers troubled youth individual therapy as well as academic education in order to achieve their mission of assisting children with any guidance or nurturing they may need. Without such an incredible place such as this, many of these children would be left hoping for the framework of a better life that The Italian Home has provided for many generations of children.

Every year the Italian Home hosts The City Lights Gala an incredible event that supports the children.  Last Year's Gala, held at the Intercontinental in Boston, had over 500 guests in attendance and raised $350,000 for the children who rely on The Italian Home.  We are looking forward to the 2012 City Lights Gala - it is sure to be another fantastic event.

If you are interested donating an auction item or getting involved in the event, please check out their website for a more information or contact us!  More details on the event to come shortly!!

Amazing October Wedding

Check out this amazing trailer from a wedding we did at the Four Seasons in October.  It was so gorgeous and the couple was truly in love!  Thanks to Naomi Raiselle of GENERATIONS Cinema Stories for such an incredible wedding memory!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving from SD Events! Don’t forget: every great event is in the simple details. If you’re hosting Thanksgiving dinner this year, it’s not too late tap into your inner Martha Stewart, with decorative table settings and creative touches. Here are a few links to spark some crafty inspiration this holiday season:

http://www.hgtv.com/entertaining/15-stylish-thanksgiving-table-settings/pictures/index.html

http://www.marthastewart.com/274251/thanksgiving-table-settings/@center/276949/everything-thanksgiving#/280486

http://www.kitchendaily.com/2010/10/25/thanksgiving-table-decorating-ideas/

http://www.southernliving.com/home-garden/holidays-occasions/thanksgiving-table-setting-decorations-00417000069515/

Location, Location, Location: Chatham Bars Inn

In Cape Cod there are fewer places more perfect for a wedding than Chatham.  The beautiful coastal town is picturesque and the quaint neighborhoods make you feel like you're stepping back in time.  As far as a venue in Chatham one place immediately comes to mind, Chatham Bars Inn.  This elegant hotel offers both impeccable service as well one of the most beautiful settings on the Cape.  In warmer months, events can utilize both the luxurious indoor spaces as well as the beautiful outdoor landscapes for cocktails or a seaside dinner.  Of course we all know how the Cape can be during high season so that is what makes this location perfect for a winter wedding or holiday soiree.

Chatham Bars Inn offers three indoor venues to fit every bride's dream of the perfect wedding location.  The Boat House features twenty foot ceilings with incredible floor to ceiling windows that offer amazing views of the ocean and the dunes that contribute to the beauty of this hotel.  The Main Dining room offers a more traditional wedding scene while still utilizing the panoramic view of Pleasant Bay in the Atlantic Ocean.  Finally The Beach House gives bride's the ultimate beach wedding they always dreamed of, not to mention the amazing photos of all the guests enjoying the incredible views and special moments of the night.

Chatham Bars Inn also has an opulent spa with every treatment you can imagine.  Just envision getting a massage or a facial and then walking out on the balcony to see the gorgeous ocean.  It is the perfect way to relax after the stress of wedding planning is over.

We love doing events at Chatham Bars Inn for all these reasons and more and cannot wait to visit again soon!

Check Us Out in Boston Weddings!

What To Do?

When you think of an elegant wedding the first thing that comes to mind is not children, but let's face it not inviting children can be tricky and sometimes you just have to bite the bullet.  Luckily there are new trends that will keep the kids at your wedding occupied and your event as chic as you envisioned.

Many weddings have been creating kids rooms that can be separate from the main celebration.  Instead of beautiful orchids and tall candles at centerpieces, think floral inspired candy sculptures in your color scheme for the kids to enjoy.  Instead of a band playing all the hits from before the kids were even born you could have a game room filled with pin ball, Foosball and more. Or consider an arts and crafts table with crayons and markers, anything that will not stain, the last thing you need on your wedding is an extra bill because your nephew spilled oil paint on the 100 year old oriental rug.  Not only will the children stay busy but think of the adorable artwork they will produce that you could put in a scrapbook you can cherish forever.

We all know how picky children can be so a separate menu for them is an absolute must.  Considering most children are too young to appreciate fine service set up a buffet with sliders, hot dogs and truffle french fries.  While the kids will be happy about the food the adults will be even happier to discover this food as the late night menu following a long night of cocktails and dancing.

Don't forget, if having children at your wedding makes you nervous do not fell guilty for ultimately not inviting them.  Its definitely a decision every bride needs to make for herself and what she feels comfortable with.  Most parents will understand that children are not typically sophisticated enough for such an elaborate event.  And to be honest they would probably be happy to leave the kids home with a sitter that night.

For the Unconventional Bride:

Weddings are one of the oldest and well respected celebrations in human history.  While staying classic and observing long held tradition is the norm there are some modern motifs and fresh details you can add to your special day to make it stand out from the conventional milieu.

If you are searching for the perfect way to showcase your contemporary personality while still respecting your heritage look no further than the broach bouquet.  Use vintage jewelry from your relatives and other pieces that represent the special bond between you and your groom to be.  This a stunning and innovative take on the classic bouquet that will have your guests pleasantly surprised, not to mention eco-friendly and a super fun DIY project for you and your bridesmaids!  Also, if your broach bouquet is missing that 'something blue' go for some blue soled shoes, its an unexpected and stylish alternative to the much overdone blue garter.

Amongst vintage inspired shows like Boardwalk Empire and the ever growing popularity of murder mystery parties arises a fun and exciting 1920's theme.  Take this overdone theme a step further by hosting a Speakeasy themed cocktail reception.  Serve a "moonshine" cocktail to your guests that will be sure to please and entertain.

Standard wedding protocol is to host an evening reception that goes into the wee hours of the morning.  This typical  practice is often the best choice for a bride but a wedding day brunch reception could be a fresh alternative.  Imagine the bottomless mimosas and the tea party accents that could be used in this unconventional time slot. Centerpieces and table linens in beautiful pale color palettes could make your wedding pop in a sea of darker hues that winter weddings usually exhibit.  If an afternoon wedding seems to not last long enough host an after party which is another trend many brides are opting for.  Switch the band for a DJ and enjoy a little black tie Karaoke!

European get-a-ways and tropical destinations may seem like your only options when trying to plan the ideal honeymoon but after seriously shrinking your wallet to afford your perfect wedding, a more cost effective option may be more appealing.  Imagine being whisked away by your new husband in a vintage red convertible on the romantic road trip of your dreams.  The pictures of your unexpected journey in your own country would be memories you would cherish forever.

Kim Kardashian and Kris Humphries Split

After a mere 72 days and only weeks after we all watched Kim Kardashian and Kris Humphries get married, the two are filing for divorce.  The rumor mill has been spreading that the two were unhappy in the new marriage and now it is official.  TMZ reported that the nuptials cost 10 million dollars, meaning that up until today each day of their brief marriage has cost almost 140,000 dollars.

Although it is a sad day in the reality television world, we cannot say we are surprised by this split. At least she lasted longer than Britney Spears!

Was it a publicity stunt or did they rush into marriage after only dating for 6 months?

Tell us what you think.

Happy Halloween!

Here at SD Events we LOVE Halloween.  We hope you love it as much as we do!  Here is a fun website to check out in case you needed any last minute costume ideas!

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

BizBash 2011

 Our Very own Ivy Finn has been nominated for "Event Designer of the Year" by BizBash Boston Readers' Choice Awards!  We could not be more proud!  Please go to the BizBash site starting at 5 p.m. today and vote for her!

Thanks!

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

The SD team just got back from a fabulous tour at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.  We were all blown away by the space to say the very least.  Kim Rzemien, the rentals and events manager gave us the most incredible inside look into the classic museum as well as the new building which will be available for events starting in February 2012.  If you have not had the pleasure of visiting this museum it is an absolute must.  The venetian inspired courtyard in the original building is simply breathtaking, pictures cannot do it justice.  While the courtyard is enclosed, it still feels as if you are in an outside garden.  The center of the courtyard displays a gorgeous mosaic dating back to the the second century.  Surrounding the courtyard are hallways covered in Mexican tiles and John Singer Sargent's 'El Jaleo'  encompasses an entire wall.

A stroll from the original building to the new building takes you through a glass tunnel with gardens on either side.  The new building provides an elegant contrast to the palazzo style building next door.  The building has an entirely glass exterior and interior which provides guests with the unique perspective to see all throughout the space and the outdoors.  There are many rooms that guests can mill about during what Kim called a "roaming cocktail hour".  Between the two buildings the museum can accommodate 425 guests for an event such as this.

We absolutely LOVED the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, we will be going soon to browse the incredible galleries and hope to plan an event there soon!

Check Out This Stunning Newport Wedding!

It was a beautiful day for Kate and Rad's wedding at the gorgeous Belle Mer in Newport!  We were so thrilled to be a part of their special day.  It was all about traditional elegance, soft romantic colors off-set with the contemporary setting which created the perfect setting.

Congratulations and best wishes - cheers!

 

Venue: Belle Mer

Florist: Flowers By Semia

Photographer: Melissa Robotti Photography

Videographer: Boston Wedding Films

Dessert: Georgetown Cupcake

Invitations: Allure Invitations

Trendspotter: Going Green

'Going Green' has recently become a movement that at times can stray away from the actual intention of saving the Earth and masquerade itself as the new trendy thing to do.  With this said we LOVE the idea of incorporating eco-friendly facets into your big wedding.  Not only will you be helping the environment, but cutting costs here and there can save you a fortune in the long run.  Here are some ideas to save the planet and your wallet:

Go Local-
This has been something may environmental activists have been preaching for people to do on a daily basis, so why not for a wedding?  Instead of using out of season ingredients or exotic flowers from far away places try and use local and organic foods.  Not only can it be just as delicious but going local can serve as an homage to the area in which you are being wed.  Some couples have chosen farms as a venue have used all items from the menu to the centerpieces from the farm!  What a great, green idea!

Change up old traditions-
In lieu of cards which can be very wasteful in terms of all the paper and ink it takes to create them, ask guests to grow and bring their own flowers.  Not only will you be reducing your carbon footprint, but you can plant the flowers at your home after the ceremony and be reminded of the amazing family and friends you have.

Invitations-
E-mail invites may seem like the only green way to announce your nuptials but fear not, there is a much more traditional and elegant way to send invitations without compromising the environment or you style.  Many companies are utilizing recycled paper and tree-friendly sources for their paper that are simply beautiful.  Check out shindiginvites.com for more ideas!

Throw a fabulous and green wedding to show your guests that saving the environment can be less drab and more fab!

Maddie's Bat Mitzvah

Maddie was in a New York state of mind while planning her Bat Mitzvah reception.  Guests were ushered into "Maddie's Manhattan Montage" which combined the sophistication of old New York with all the classic details representative of a young teen's party in a black and fuchsia motif.
The decor components came together to create Maddie's perfect day.  Tall glowing cylinders were filled with flickering beams to create centerpieces reminiscent of iconic buildings in the New York City skyline, with a girlish twist.  A V.I.P. lounge buzzed like Times Square while guests sipped on the Maddie-Tini, a ginger ale mocktail with a shot of cherry or sweet blue raspberry flavor.

All in all Maddie's party was an event fit for a Manhattan princess and we were so happy to help her plan it!

Thank you to Robert Castagna for the fabulous photos!  It was a pleasure working with so many great vendors - Rentals Unlimited, Table Toppers, Prop Factory.

Mazel Tov!!

La Sposa Bridal

La Sposa Bridal is one of Newton's best kept secrets.  Located on Watertown Street this beautiful bridal boutique has been serving brides for the past three decades.  La Sposa Bridal has been a one stop shop for many women preparing for their special days not only because the gowns are incredible but La Sposa Bridal also offers dresses for bridesmaids, flower girls and mother of the bride options.

All alterations are done on site by an experienced seamstress who will be sure to make your dress everything you dreamed of.  A wide array of accessories throughout the boutique will help you complete the look so that you feel like a princess on your wedding day.  If your something old or borrowed happens to be your mother or grandmother's wedding dress, look no further than La Sposa Bridal.  The shop is known for it's antique dress restoration so the dress will look as fabulous as it did generations before you!

Weiner Bar Mitzvah

When we found out one of our favorite wedding professionals, Mara Weiner of Allure Invitations, was preparing for her son, Ben's Bar Mitzvah we could not have been more excited to be apart of this big day.  Ben's closest family and friends celebrated at Hotel Marlow in Cambridge, which served as a perfect backdrop for the basketball themed soiree. 

The details of this event is what made it truly unforgettable.  The place cards, designed by SD Events, were inspired by basketball game tickets that featured Ben's face on each card.  Mara herself designed the gorgeous invitations that mixed tradition with Ben's favorite sport.  The front was a classic invite in slate gray while the back displayed the texture of an authentic basketball.  Finally the Ben-ito was featured as a signature mocktail any thirteen year old would have swooned over.

Instead of cherishing his first gift for himself he used it to personally donate several basketballs to the Jewish Big Brother Big Sister Program.  Congratulations Ben!  We could not have been more honored to be involved in your special day!

Traditions Up for Debate

The words wedding and tradition go hand in hand… but not all brides are sold on being traditional. Here are a few traditions we have seen recently up for debate. We added some of our own thoughts…but what do you think? After all, you’re the bride… you make the rules.

1.      The man proposes – Unless you want to continue to drop hints to no avail just propose yourself.  No one said there was anything wrong with a “mangagement ring”.

2.      Ring must be diamond- Over 80 percent of married woman wear a diamond engagement ring... but that does not mean you have to!

3.      Only one maid of honor- Oh just have two… planning a wedding is enough work without having to referee a cat fight between your sister and your best friend.

4.      Registering – We find the only tradition regarding a registry that cannot be forgotten is that there should not be any mention of gifts on a wedding invitation.

5.      Bridal Showers- Traditionally bridal showers are an event just for women, but wedding traditions should be able to evolve with the trends of the modern world.  Be unconventional and host a Jack and Jill bridal shower so that guests of both genders can attend.

6.      Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties- What could be wrong about anything that ends in the word party?... but then again we all saw the Hangover.

7.      Bride’s parents foot the bill- In today’s tough economic times and the increasingly expensive prices for weddings it seems more adequate to have multiple people financially contribute to a wedding… perhaps even the bride and groom themselves.

8.      Gender-Specific attendants- Not sure what to do with your gay best friend? Bridesmen anyone? Shake it up…whose judging.

9.      Matching bridesmaid dresses- Thanks to Sex and the City (where all good trends are born) mixing things up for your bridesmaids in both color and silhouette is a trend we can’t help but encourage.

10.  A veil- While sporting a veil is almost as sacred a tradition as wearing white, some may rather showcase their hair and makeup they had professionally done.

11.  Flower girls/ring bearers- This can be an adorable way to include some younger family members or friends, but having to babysit on your special day is definitely not an ideal situation.

12.  Dad “gives you away”- If your father is a guest at your wedding, not having him walk you down the aisle may be the ultimate snub.  If he won’t be there, be creative!  We’ve seen it all from the bride’s siblings or children giving them away, or even walking down the aisle by yourself.

13.  Traditional vows- Reciting traditional vows can take a lot of stress off a soon to be married couple, but personalized vows can be a sweet alternative and a lot more memorable.

14.  Rice shower- While the origin of throwing rice at a newly married couple is intended to represent longevity and prosperity, being pelted with tiny bits of grain may not be how you always envisioned your wedding day.

15.  Receiving line- This could be quite a nuisance to orchestrate, but may be the only feasible way to share a moment with each and every guest invited to your wedding.

16.  First dance- As long as the song is not a cliché, the first dance is a tradition we would like to see stick around for many weddings to come.

17.  Bouquet toss- To toss or not to toss?  Some single women might look at this tradition as a blow to their ego, while others will not read so much into it and allow themselves to enjoy the thrill of competition.

18.  Garter toss- Let’s be honest, the garter toss can be down  right awkward.  Feel free to dump this odd tradition.

19.  Funny speeches- All in good fun or all too personal?  We don’t know if Nana needs to know about that one time in college when…..

20.  Feed each other cake- Cute until it ends up all over your face…You paid for that make up didn’t you?