Friday, December 21, 2012

Brides Magazine Field Guide: The 10 Things You Should Do First


10 immediate things to do when you get engaged! We spoke with Brides Magazine about the first first first things a newly engaged person should do. Look, everyone is going to give you their advice on the steps to start planning but these are the tips just for you personally on how to enjoy/prepare for your very recent engagement. 

 
 




Here is the full list of tips we gave to Brides. They had to be weeded down for the article but think the others will still benefit you newly engaged folks:

1) Look around where you are, save a keepsake, take everything in. What song was playing in the background? What kind of moon was it? Might be nice to have the actual sand, grass, leaf your fiance kneeled down on. Don't let your engagement be a blur.

2) call your important people BEFORE you change your status on Facebook so that's not the way they find out

3) Get your nails done. People are going to ask to see your ring, which is subsequently on your hand and so you will be showing your hands and nails to a lot of people in the coming weeks.

4) Speak to your accountant about what date would be best for you to joint file, might play into when you legally want to get married as you start getting ready to set the date. Also look up when will be best to go on honeymoon if you'd like to leave for a trip right after your wedding.

5) Cancel your haircut appt or just get a trim. You'll prob want that grown out for the wedding.

6) stop eating carbs. just kidding. sort of.

7) Record a video interview of yourselves so you can remember the moment and recap it. Like a video diary.

8) Speak with other engaged couple friends to make sure you don't have a scene from bride wars, allow honeymoon time

9) Don't even think about going for walkthroughs at venues until you have both of these 1) budget 2) guest count

10) Maybe not call everyone immediately and just spend the day with each other and enjoying the calm happiness before you pop open the can of ecstatic joy from all your friends and family. There's plenty of time to share the news but you only get a few private moments for you two like this.

11) Try not to have an out of body experience and listen and absorb the words your man is saying to you when he's proposing

12) Be mindful who you talk to your wedding about because they may assume they are a wedding party member or guest, when they are not. Whoops!

13) Someone's idea of best band they've ever seen doesn't necessarily fit your criteria. Everyone wants to be the authority and will give you their list of favorite vendor from their wedding, their cousin's, their neighbor's coworker's sister's wedding,... Be gracious and ready but don't feel pressured to use all the same vendors your sister did.

14) Ever watch say yes to the dress when they bring 10 people shopping? Only bring people who you really value their opinion. Otherwise travel light. This is not something the village needs to vote on.

15) Your favorite color/flower/dress will change 6 times at least. This is normal and part of the process. Don't feel afraid/hesitant to start collecting ideas of things you like, you're not committed to it and it's not the final decision by a long shot so just get going!

16) Make sure your fiance knows it is his wedding too (and mean it!) and do what you can to make him feel invested and that his opinions truly count and are as valuable. Don't get frustrated that he doesn't care more when he's checked out at the last floral sample meeting when he wasn't involved in the first 3 meetings or in selecting anything.

17) As long as you've been dreaming about your wedding day, your parents have been thinking about it for even longer. The event is in honor of you and your fiance but it is about them as well so try to keep an open mind to their thoughts on tradition, guest list, etc. It's a big day for them too.

18) If you're thinking of hiring a planner best to do it before you book the venue. There are so many times a client comes to me and I wish I could undo some of the planning and take them to the venue that would have really been a better fit for them.

19) There are so many options. Too many options. Brides suffer from "analysis paralysis" and drive themselves crazy trying to research the best deal, best photographer, best, ... What's best is if you stay sane, enjoy the options and be happy in your decisions and then don't look back. No buying the second or third dress!

20) Don't lose sight of what the wedding is about really. It's not about the celadon and aubergine color story. Promise yourself you will let go and not obsess about the details and enjoy your wedding day no matter what weather forecast it is and even if the DJ accidentally played the wrong first dance song.

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Custom Men's Shirts from Alasbater & Chess


I know. A lot of groomsmen gift ideas this month. 

I met with Alabaster & Chess today who design custom suits and shirts for men. Men's attire is my achilles heel of wedding planning so always eager to learn more about the world of men's fashion. 

Custom suits are a great way to go for gm because like bm dresses, you know it's hard to find one cut that is going to flatter every body type so why not pick the colors and materials then then get each one custom made - pick the stitching color, pocket style, lining fabric-- especially if the price point is competitive with a designer suit. And what's cool for the guys is that Alabaster & Chess will have their measurements on file for future pieces that are measured and tailored to fit like a glove. 

So maybe gifting gm a suit each is more than you want to do but the shirts are also custom fitted and made (so no boxy/baggy look - hate that) and you can do cute things like have their initials embroidered. I feel like my euro guy friends all have their tailor make their shirts and is a new, now very available, option for our good ole American fellas.

Monday, December 17, 2012

Holiday Wishes in Pinterest Style!

Happy Holidays!


We put this "Happy Holidays 2012!" Pinterest board together of all the things we hope your holidays are filled with! Wishing you a safe, warm and happy holiday season!

See you in the New Year!

Warm wishes,

Daughter of Design

Thursday, December 13, 2012

NYC subway token cufflinks for your GM!


Having a wedding in NYC? Your groomsmen will love these gold plated New York City token cufflinks. Each set of cufflinks use actual authentic subway tokens which feature the famous cut out of the Y in NYC. Beautifully packaged in a subway map covered gift box.

$90.00 and available at the Official NYC City Store!



Thursday, December 6, 2012

One of The Knot's 20 industry MVPs


The Knot recently asked 20 MVPs (Most Valuable PLANNERS) for their favorite weddings of the year as part of a special feature in the National Edition of The Knot's Winter 2012 magazine.

First of all, we're considered top 20 of the country!!!! Incredibly honored.

Second,  you have to see Beth & Daniel's Bowery Hotel wedding. It really is a DREAM!


 Amazing photography by Roey Yohai

See even more photos on The Knot Website




Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Berkshire wedding video - Gedney Farms


Rachel and Jason's Highlight {Standard Package} from moho creative on Vimeo.

I love video. I love this video in particular. I love photography too but that's still art that can't catch the magic of falling leaves and a smile forming and this level of expression. 

Rachel and Jason had the ideal Fall Berkshires wedding at Gedney Farms in New Marlborough, MA. Watch this video, you'll see!

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Planner of The Knot Gala 2012

This year marked the 3rd annual Bridal Fall Fashion week Gala hosted by The Knot at the New York Public Library. And this year, Daughter of Design worked closely with The Knot and a laundry list of wedding industry luminaries to plan  the best yet!









Carley Roney, me, David Beahm
(note how nice it looks when you coordinate your attire with the event's color story!)

Check out these pictures, videos and press coverage of the event! 


The Knot Gala 2012 from Elysium Productions on Vimeo.

Thank you to all these special folks

Until next year y'all!

Monday, October 8, 2012

"The Expert" in October issue of Brides Magazine!


Me? The "wedding doyenne," well thank you very much Brides magazine!! Check out the feature in the October issue where I dish about what I would do for my dream wedding (not that I'm engaged...or dating anyone for that matter ha! Man, do you think this is going to scare the fish away? Hard enough to tell guys I'm a wedding planner but now they can read an article where I've even picked our china!)




Special mentions to:

Dress - Marchesa
Invitations - Bernard Maisner
First Course - Spoon House
China - Meissen
Chargers - Party Rentals LTD
Cocktails - Yusef Austin

So, guys, this means you're going to hook me up one day, right? :)


Friday, October 5, 2012

Watch our eHow wedding dress and veil videos!

I recently did a series of videos for eHow about one of the most important elements of a wedding -- the wedding dress! Watch as I give you some tips to help you choose the perfect dress and look your very best on the big day!


Things to Know Before Getting Fitted for Your Wedding Dress -- powered by ehow
Find out about some important things you need to know before getting fitted for your wedding dress!


Differences in Wedding Dress Silhouettes -- powered by ehow
There are 5 different wedding dress silhouettes to choose from. Learn about differences in wedding dress silhouettes and which of these are most flattering to your figure!


Do You Need to Bring Anything Particular to Try on Wedding Dresses? -- powered by ehow
Before you go shopping for the perfect dress, there are a few things you may want to bring with you. I'll tell you what you should pack before going in search for your wedding dress!


Styles of Wedding Veils -- powered by ehow
Learn about the many different types and styles of wedding veils you can choose from!


How to Pick the Right Veil for Your Dress -- powered by ehow
Picking the right veil is one of the most important finishing details that can either make or break a dress. Here, I'll help you pick out the right veil for your wedding dress!


What Is the Difference Between Mother of the Bride Dresses and Mother of the Groom Dresses? -- powered by ehow
You may want to help choose a dress for your mother or your future mother-in-law for your big day. Here, I'll talk about the subtle differences between mother of the bride and mother of the groom dresses and how they can pick a dress that stylizes well with your wedding!


What Is a Good Wedding Dress Choice for Petite Brides? -- powered by ehow
If you're a petite bride, there are a few distinct wedding dress styles that you might want to explore. Let me help you pick the right dress that will bring out your best assets!


Pregnancy Wedding Dresses -- powered by ehow
Sometimes, you may be expecting a little one on your wedding day. Watch as I talk about different dresses that suit a pregnant bride!


How to Unwrinkle a Wedding Dress -- powered by ehow
If your wedding dress gets wrinkled on the big day, don't worry! Learn how to unwrinkle a wedding dress here!


Instructions to Bustle a Gown -- powered by ehow
On your wedding day, you may want to bustle your gown to create a different look or simply for comfort. Here, I explain how to bustle your gown for your big day!

Sunday, September 30, 2012

"Video Games" by Lana del Rey





I've used this song a few times at weddings for the bride's processional and it truly creates a deep/powerful moment. The piano chords mimic heavy bells that ring in a slow and dramatic backdrop. 

I promise this will have everyone feeling moved and choked up. 

This line is my favorite: "Heaven is a place on earth with you...They say that the world was built for two, Only worth living if somebody is loving you"

Lyrics: 

Swinging in the backyard
Pull up in your fast car
Whistling my name

Open up a beer
And you say, "Get over here
And play a video game."

I'm in his favorite sun dress
Watching me get undressed
Take that body downtown

I say, "You the bestest."
Lean in for a big kiss
Put his favorite perfume on

Go play a video game

It's you, it's you, it's all for you
Everything I do
I tell you all the time
Heaven is a place on earth with you
Tell me all the things you want to do
I heard that you like the bad girls
Honey, is that true?
It's better than I ever even knew
They say that the world was built for two
Only worth living if somebody is loving you
Baby, now you do

Singing in the old bars
Swinging with the old stars
Living for the fame

Kissing in the blue dark
Playing pool and wild darts
Video games

He holds me in his big arms
Drunk and I am seeing stars
This is all I think of

Watching all our friends fall
In and out of Old Paul's
This is my idea of fun
Playing video games

It's you, it's you, it's all for you
Everything I do
I tell you all the time
Heaven is a place on earth with you
Tell me all the things you want to do
I heard that you like the bad girls
Honey, is that true?
It's better than I ever even knew
They say that the world was built for two
Only worth living if somebody is loving you
Baby, now you do

Now you do
Now you do
Now you do

Now you do
Now you do
Now you do

It's you, it's you, it's all for you
Everything I do
I tell you all the time
Heaven is a place on earth with you
Tell me all the things you want to do
I heard that you like the bad girls
Honey, is that true?
It's better than I ever even knew
They say that the world was built for two
Only worth living if somebody is loving you
Baby, now you do

Now you do
Now you do
Now you do
(Now you do)
Now you do
Now you do
Now you do

Thursday, April 19, 2012

FAM trip to Little Dix Bay (Virgin Gorda) + Jumby Bay (Antigua)



I'm out of control excited about my next FAM trip to Rosewood Hotel's properties in Virgin Gorda and Antigua. Both properties I'll be visiting are super private, luxury resorts and I am fully prepared to make believe like I am of royal lineage for 5 days.

Here's info on both resorts:


Little Dix Bay, Virgin Gorda
Just beyond a colorful barrier reef, lapped by gentle blue waters, lies Rosewood Little Dix Bay® - a truly authentic destination, tamed for sophisticated tastes. The timeless boutique resort on Virgin Gorda offers tranquility found nowhere else in the Caribbean. Little Dix rewards its discerning guests with an instantaneous retreat from their fast-paced lives - an unmatched Caribbean vacation getaway offering fine dining, an award-winning spa, luxury villas and beachfront rooms and suites.





Jumby Bay, private island off Antigua
Set on a 300-acre private Caribbean island, Jumby Bay, A Rosewood Resort casts a spell of serene enchantment. Nestled two miles off the coast of Antigua, the exclusive resort is a naturalist's haven noted for its lush landscape, stately palm trees and three superb, white sand beaches. A secluded hideaway accessible only by boat, the luxury resort is known worldwide for providing discerning travelers with world-class service and distinguished amenities.






THE ITINERARY! 

Monday, 23 April
    
2:00pm   Lunch at Beach Grill 
Afternoon at leisure to enjoy the resort; snorkeling, swimming, tennis, kayaks etc
4.30pm – 5.30pm Complimentary Afternoon Tea is served on the Pavilion Terrace
6.30pm – 7.30pm Managing Director’s Cocktail Party – Activities Room
7pm   Dinner at the Pavilion, Grand Island Buffet
   
Tuesday, 24 April

7.00am – 8.00am ‘Early Risers’ Tea/Coffee/Pastries at Beach Grill and Pavilion Terrace
8:00am -10.30am Breakfast at Leisure  at Pavilion Restaurant
10:00am – 11:00am Site Tour of Rosewood Little Dix Bay with Nicole Stevens 
12.30pm Lunch – Beach Grill
2.30pm Tour of Beach Drop Beaches
3.30pm Return from Tour
4:30 pm – 5:30 pm Complimentary Afternoon Tea is served on the Pavilion Terrace
5.45pm The Spa - Spa Treatments
7:30 pm Please meet by the “Big Tree” to be escorted to a surprise location for Champagne sunset followed by dinner with Nuria Candel, Duncan Hogarth, Domingo Velasco


Wednesday, 25 April
7.00 am  “Early Risers Breakfast” Coffee/Tea/Pastries at Pavilion and Beach Grill
8:00 am -10:15am Breakfast at Leisure at Pavilion Restaurant
10:15am Depart for charter flight to Jumby Bay



Thursday, 26 April  - Friday, 27 April 
Okay I don't know what happens when we get to Jumby Bay. I'm assuming more excellence and not believing where I am/jumping on bed (Jumby Bay, pretend you didn't read that part) but whatever is in store I'm there until Friday!

THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!
Thank you so much Rosewood Hotel for selecting me as one of the select few planners to share this experience and spread the good word! Extra special thank you to my hosts at Little Dix Bay and Jumby Bay!

Hosts:
Mr Duncan Hogarth  Managing Director
Mr Domingo Velasco Director of Marketing 
Ms Nicole Stevens  Sales Manager
Ms Nuria Candel Group Sales Manager
Ms Dale George Group and Events 

In about 1 week I will be a pro on these two properties so line up to talk destination weddings!


Wednesday, March 28, 2012

VIP Planner guest on "The Knot Live"

 
 
 Watch me on The Knot Live! On this episode I talk about: 

- the new Over the Top
- cultural cool
- shopping your own stuff
- blue, the it color
- anti-banquet, dinner party style decor

Tuesday, March 27, 2012

FAM trip to Portofino, Italy




Off to another FAM trip and this time to the beautiful coastal town of Italy, Portofino, truly the home of La Dolce Vita! Thank you SposiamoVi for inviting me to attend!

Check out my schedule for the trip:

30th March 2012
By 6:00 pm - Check in  Excelsior Palace Hotel situated in Rapallo
7:00 pm - welcome cocktail and presentation of the event
8:30 pm -  Welcome dinner at the Hotel 
Dress code: smart casual

31st March 2012
7:00 am to 9:00 am - Breakfast
9:30 am - Appointments with local vendors
1:00 pm - Business lunch
2:00 pm - Afternoon meeting session
7:15 pm  - Gala cocktail and dinner in Portofino hosted by SposiamoVi
"In this occasion you will experience a special evening in Portofino’s Piazzetta, one
of the most known scenario of La Dolce Vita of the 50’s."

Dress code: Dolce Vita attire


1st April 2012 7:00 am to 8:30 am - Breakfast
9:00 am - Appointments with local vendors
12:30 pm - End of the business appointment/Lunch
1:00 pm - Free time to explore Portofino!



Looking forward to rubbing gomiti with the top international wedding planners:

UK
James Lord - Love&Lord – www.loveandlord.com
Andrew Wolmark – Quintessentially Events - www.quintessentiallyevents.com
Raffaella Alflatt – Wed In Italy - www.wedinitaly.co.uk
   
MID-EUROPE
Sara E. Pua - Exclusive Weddings  - www.exclusive-weddings.ch
Evelyne Schärer (Chairwoman of  VUSH - Svizzera) Your Perfect Day -
www.yourperfectday.ch
Sabine Greiff – Agentur Traumhochzeit - www.agentur-traumhochzeit.de
Anya Goretski – Event 360 Grad - www.event360grad.de
Ingeborg Birgit Bergakker - Seeds of Love  -
www.seedsoflove.nl      www.exquisitegayweddings.nl       www.bridalfairs.nl
Christine Göhner - Agentur Event's of MWD  -  www.thats-wedding.de

RUSSIA
Marina Grishko – Event Boutique of Marina Grishko - grishko.org
Mikhail Semenon – Op-position – www.op-positio.ru
Tereza Borodina – WhiteChoco – www.whitechoco.ru

USA
Lisa Light – Destination Bride – www.lisalightltd.com - www.destinationbride.com
Annie Lee – Daugher of Design - www.daughterofdesign.com
Bonnie Marie – My Weddings and More – www.myweddingsandmore.com
Ashley Baber - Ashley Baber Weddings - www.ashleybaberweddings.com
Kristin Lynn Alexander – Beth Helmstetter - www.bethhelmstetter.com
Cassandre Snyder – www.cassandresnyder.com
Krista Njapa – C&G Weddings – www.candgweddings.com
Angela Young Proffitt – Elegant Weddings by Angela – www.angelaproffitt.com
Amy Rubins – Fete Perfection – www.feteperfection.com
Preeti Nanvaan – Preeti Exclusive Creations – www.preetiexclusive.com

DUBAI
Sarah Jane Feyling -  Couture Events – www.coutureevents.ae

INDIA
Sudha Khanna – Gurleen M Puri - www.gurleenmpuri.com

SINGAPORE
Jonathan Goh – Wedding Acts – www.weddingacts.

AUSTRALIA
Katherine Apostolidis - Events by Nightingales  - www.theweddingplanner.com.au
Paola Bamonte – Marry Me Abroad – www.marrymeabroad.com


Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Chelsea and Will in The Knot NYC, Spring/Summer 2012

 
Chelsea and Will's Pratt House wedding featured in the The Knot's Spring/Summer 2012 NYC Magazine! I know I say this about nearly everyone but really Chelsea and Will are one of my favorite couples ever! Their wedding was so classic and sweet!





My absolute favorite were the mahjong tiles that served as escort cards. Each were engraved with the person's name and table number and displayed with real mahjong tiles. This was a fantastic, fresh, creative way to incorporate Will's culture and background into the NYC UES wedding!

Saturday, February 25, 2012

Spread the love - Love Knot Ring!

Image of LOVE KNOT
LOVE KNOT - $88.00 USD

I wear one of these Guenevere Rodriguez Love Knot rings at all times! And get complimented on it at all times!

I ran into Guenevere Rodriguez along Prince and Mulberry streets years ago and instantly fell in love with her style and philosophy.

In her own words:

I Prayed for a Ring to come thru Me and this is what I got, The Love Knot Ring. I make them with Intentions to Open Your Heart to draw Love to You, from Yourself and Others. 
 
It's the perfect bridesmaid gift. Purchase them in advance and be sure to wear it around for a few days before gifting it. By doing this you will transfer your love and energy to whomever you gift it upon! It's a beautiful ring and sentiment!
 
Get it here:  Guenevere Rodriguez website 
 
or 
 
you can find her at the Prince Street Market

Sunday, February 12, 2012

Ireland Destination Wedding Trip!


I am so excited to be a guest of Tourism Ireland and Dream Irish Weddings this next week as several top wedding industry planners and I travel through Shannon, Ireland to tour all the destination wedding possibilities.

In advance, I'd like to thank all our hosts and all those who helped to put this all together! As a planner, I am always so appreciative when someone has put time and effort into planning a fun trip like this. Check out this killer itinerary!!

Monday 13th February 2012

   7.30pm            Depart Newark on Continental Airlines C0024

Day 1: Tuesday 14th February 2012

   6.55am           Touch down at Shannon International Airport

Cead Mile Failte !

On collection of luggage assemble in the Meeting point in the Arrivals Hall where    Michelle , Dream Irish Wedding & the driver will meet you
    7.30am          Transfer to the Lodge at Doonbeg Golf Club
    8.30am          Arrival at the Lodge, light refreshments
                            Show around of the property
    10.30am        Short hop to the world famous Cliffs of Moher
    11.30am         Photo Opp at the Cliffs
    12.15pm         Depart the Cliffs                        
    1.00pm          Sample Smoked Irish Salmon at the Burren Smokehouse
 Traditional Irish pub lunch in the Roadside Tavern
    2.30pm          Drive through the stunning Burren region
    4.00pm          Return to the Lodge at Doonbeg Golf Club
    6.45pm          Pre Dinner Reception in the Members bar
    7.15pm           Dinner in the Tea Room  
 Overnight at the Lodge at Doonbeg Golf Club


Day 2:Wednesday 15th February 2012

8.30-9.30am   Enjoy an Irish Breakfast overlooking the Ocean 
                           in the Long room
10.15am            Depart the Lodge at Doonbeg Golf Club
11.30am            Visit the Wedding Castle at Knappogue
12.30pm           Short trip to the village of Bunratty
1.00pm            Explore the Bunratty folk park & medieval castle
2.00pm            Traditional Irish scones & tea in the Golden Vale
                          cottage
3.30pm            Travel to Dromoland Castle, Co.Clare
4.00pm            Show around & Check in
7.00pm            Pre dinner cocktails in the cocktail bar
7.30pm            Dinner in the Earl of Thomond Restaurant  
Overnight in Dromoland Castle


Day 3: Thursday 16th February 2012

Feeling energetic have an early morning swim!
8-9.00am         Breakfast served in the Earl of Thomond 
                           restaurant
9.30am             Depart Dromoland Castle
10.30am           Visit King John’s Castle in Limerick city 
                           and spot of shopping in Brown
                           Thomas & Cornstore at Home
12.00pm           Have an Irish Coffee in Paddy Frawley’s bar
1.00pm             Arrival at Adare Manor hotel, Co. Limerick
                           Show around of the resort
2pm                   Lunch will be served in the Drawing room
                           Check in
3.30pm            Stroll around Ireland’s prettiest village of Adare experience the quaint shops, wonderful boutiques and thatched cottages
7.00pm            Pre Dinner drinks in the cocktail bar
7.30pm             Farewell dinner in the Oak Room
Continue the party in the Tack bar!
Overnight Adare Manor


Friday 17th February 2012

6.15am             Depart Adare Manor hotel with breakfast
7.00am             Arrival Shannon airport & check in (clear USA  Emigration in Shannon)
9.00am             Depart for New York on CO 0025
11.30am             Arrival New York


Slan Abhaile !

 Cliffs of Moher
Doonbeg
  
Dromoland Castle
 Adare Manor

When I'm in Ireland I'll have to go by my twitter name since we're Irish when we tweet (@daughterodesign - no room for the "F")! I'm ready for you scones, clotted cream and Guinness!