Signature Vendor: Courtyard Flowers

To assist you in your vendor selections, we have decided to start featuring some of our favorite vendors.  These are vendors we have worked with, and trust.  Just because a vendor fits your budget does not guarantee a match in style and professional personality.  Building an ideal Wedding Team means prudently selecting vendors who will work together to create an event just for you. 

We start this special edition blog post featuring one of our favorites: Courtyard Flowers.

In case the name doesn't give it away, this Signature Vendor is a Wedding Floral Specialist.  Take a gander at our interview with the owner, Katie Trost.  She's excellent at what she does and has often shocked me and my clients (in a good way) with the wonderful way she's able to take an example photograph and bring it to life with such elegance.

 

 

Pink Tie Prefered:  How did you start your company?

Courtyard Flowers:  I bought an existing floral shop In October of 1999.

Pink Tie Prefered: How long have you been in business?

Courtyard Flowers: This year marks my 14^th anniversary.

Pink Tie Prefered: How did you get started?

Courtyard Flowers: I started as a flower “ cleaner “ dethorning roses at a floral shop when I was 18 years old.

 

Pink Tie Prefered:  What services do you provide?

Courtyard Flowers:  I help choose wedding floral designs, consult with my brides, arrange the flowers, deliver and set up the flowers.

 

Pink Tie Prefered:  Where and what does your inspiration come from?

Courtyard Flowers:  My true love for design. I am lucky to enjoy my work, it is my passion.

Pink Tie Prefered:  What is the most rewarding part of what you do?

Courtyard Flowers:  The most rewarding part is seeing a bride’s vision from start to finish, and seeing the happiness on her face on her big day. I like collaborating with my brides.

 

Pink Tie Prefered:  What's your favorite part of your job?

Courtyard Flowers:  The challenges of taking something a bride saw in a magazine, and duplicating it with my own little twist on it.

Pink Tie Prefered:  Why do you think it's important for clients to hire a professional florist?

Courtyard Flowers:  I just feel like a professional can definitely help make the wedding prettier and nicer with the floral designs.

Pink Tie Prefered:  What unique qualities do you possess that sets you apart from other florists?

Courtyard Flowers:  I keep up on trends and listen very carefully to what each bride likes, and doesn’t like. I am very hands on, as a business owner, I do all my own consulting, return emails, everything.

Pink Tie Prefered:  Besides being a florist, what else do you like to do with your time?

Courtyard Flowers:  Huge gardener, love to cook. Love to read, and to travel.

Pink Tie Prefered:  How can potential clients reach you?

Courtyard Flowers:  Website or Facebook

 

To reach Katie or find out more about our Signature Vendors contact us today!

"Day of"... more like "Month of"

Not every couple understands how involved "day of" coordination is.  Many think that it is as simple as coming in for the rehearsal, and actual "day of".  

The problem with that is any experienced planner worth their fee knows it is impossible to come in and execute a well planned event coming in the day before.  Hourly rates for planners start at $50 per hour.  So while it is tempting to hire a coordinator who charges $500 for a "day of" package, they are going to work more than 10 hours ($500 divided by $50/hour).  Check out this breakdown in a recent Huffington Post article.

• Contacting your contracted vendors and obtaining their contracts -- three hours
• Reading and fully comprehending contracts -- three hours
• Venue walk-through -- two hours
• Creating a timeline to perfection -- three hours
• Assisting you in creating your ceremony order and flow -- one hour
• Rehearsal -- one (more like two) hours
• Pre-planning with the bride on ceremony lineup, guest lists, floor plans, etc. -- two hours
• Wedding day -- 10 to 12 hours
• Total hours required to PERFORM SUCCESSFULLY on the wedding day: 25 hours

25 hours X $50 = $1250.00

Would you really want to trust your special day to someone who sells themselves short?  If they don't value their experience and skill set, why should you.  Take the $500 you would spend on the "day of" package with an inexperienced planner and put it as a down payment on a more experienced planner.  In the long run, it will be worth it.

Experienced planners have better resources and are better equipped to provide you with your dream day.  Most experience planners also offer payment plans - making their packages more affordable.  At the end of the day: "Don't put the success of your wedding day in the hands of the $5-an-hour wedding planner."

For our rates, or to schedule a consultation, visit our website to contact us today!

Where NOT to Skimp

Regardless of budget, event hosts are usually concerned with costs.  Be it a wedding, baby shower or judicial investiture, the budget is usually reviewed on a line-by-line basis rather than from the overall bottom line.

With each and every client, the most consistent advice I give clients is not to skimp on the memories - and anything attached to them.  Want to know how to best allocate your funds and still have a fabulous time?  Here's our list of areas we suggest you do NOT skimp on the budget:

• Food:  Ample portions of well-seasoned, promptly served food will keep guests happy.  Happy guests create happy memories.  Nothing is worse as a guest than having to wait for food to be served (either because of tardy hosts or the venue), except for having to wait for food service and receive an unfulfilling portion.  If your venue and/or caterer offers a tasting, schedule one and choose entrees that best fit the occasion and guests attending.  Make sure portions are generous.  Another benefit to promptly served, healthy portions is a fewer number of overly intoxicated guests if an open bar is offered.
• Music: Some of the best shots captured are of guests having a great time on your day.  What better way to get them active and moving than fantastic music.  Whether your preference is a live band or a disc jockey, or if you prefer line dancing over ballroom dancing, with great music your guests won't be able to sit still too long.  For some of your guests, it is quite possible that this is a long overdue night out without the kids. Be sure to make it worth their while, and show them a good time!  (Besides, they'll probably need to work off some of the meal you just served.)
• Photography: All of the special moments from entrances to dances can be relived repeatedly through beautifully captured, professionally shot photographs.  This is one the first areas hosts tend to want to skimp.  "It just pictures" or, "my best friend has a really good camera, can't she take pictures?" are two statements often used in an attempt to justify cutting corners on photographs.  At the end of the day, pictures (and video) will be all that's left.  Let's be honest, if it's a wedding you're hosting - will you really wear the gown again?  And, the flowers will die before the week's over.  Spend the money where it counts - what will live on: Your Memories.
• Cinematography: Same with the photography, this is what will last after your special event is all said and done.  It may seem like a high expense, but you'll be grateful on the back end.  You may not pop it in every time you sit down for a movie night.  But, it's a great post-wedding recap with the bridal party (a "release" party), and something to do on your anniversaries.  If you're celebrating another life event, the memories of some of the guests present will eventually become priceless - trust me.

It seems like that's the whole budget, right?  These are some of the big ticket items, I know. But, there are several other areas of the budget where you can scale back without sacrificing the event's experience.

For a review of your budget, visit our website and contact us today!

Expanding Services

In June 2002 we serviced our first bride and groom.  At that wedding, a young and naive planner with intense passion provided not only planning and coordination services, but offered ceremony decor as well.  Shortly thereafter, we decided to focus just on event production.

 

Eleven years later, we offered the centerpieces and worked with other vendors to bring together the design vision, for an intimate wedding.  It quickly renewed our passion for design and a different level of creativity.   So, with that, we are pleased to announced that we are expanding our offerings to better serve our clients.

 

Keep an eye out for our new decor items, which will also include chair covers in several colors.

 

For more information or to book your rental, contact us today!

Signature Event: An Intimate Affair - Six One

Saundra and Jeffrey's intimate affair on was one of our first events of the season.  We were excited to work with some of our favorite vendors such as TinaJanel Makeup, DSH Photography and AtLarge Sound & Lighting. 

This deep purple, lavendar and silver wedding also introduced us to some new favorites!  Guests thoroughly enjoyed the vanilla, chocolate and red velvet cupcakes from Sweet 220.  It was our first time working with the staff at The Embassy Suites - Livonia.  However, Colleen, Derrick, Pam & Bernard, along with the rest of the staff went an extra three miles!  It was truly a pleasure working with such accommodating staff.

 

More pictures and details to come.  For information about this or other signature events, or to host your own contact us today!

Inspiration Guide: Peacock Theme

With Pantone's 2013 Color of the Year being announced, the emerald tones have quickly led to a return of the peacock theme.  By adding just a touch, or even carefully carrying it throughout, here are some ideas to provide inspiration. 

We've given you ideas for attire, including "blue" bottoms by Christian Louboutin and a peacock inspired party gown.  Jim Hjelm offers soft gowns from his 2013 collection.  Maggie Sottero's Saffron can be worn with or without a strap. (We happen to think the strap is gorgeous!) 

Centerpieces, invitations, bouquets and even boutonnières can help bring your vision to life without over doing it.

When it comes to decor, you can keep the room simple by using candles and theme-colored flowers in a cylinder vase, or go all out with peacock themed chair sashes.

Even the cake and Viennese table can become an elaborate display with elegance - either with simplicity or in the most ornate way imaginable.

For more ideas, or discuss your vision with a professional, contact us.




*This is an inspiration guide. We claim no rights to the photographs used.

Signature Event: Ray + Ryan

We had so much fun working with and celebrating with Ray & Ryan on their special day!  September 29th started off with tons of primping and pampering.  With ladies on each side, Ray's maids visited Custom Eyes, while Ryan's gals were paid a visit by TinaJanel.

Pre-ceremony shots were taken at The Edsel and Eleanor Ford House, which is on the shore of Lake St. Clair in Grosse Pointe Shores. Led by the phenomenal Kim Williams of The Village Paparazzi, the group travelled the grounds.  The result - many shots fit for a magazine!

Ryan Jr. gets ready to board the party bus.

Bridal Party

The fabulously styled bridal party was FIERCE and could have hit the runway on their way to the ceremony in their purple, silver and black.   If I could have posted all of the pre-ceremony shots, I would have!  FABULOUS!

The Ladies 

The Gents

Checking out details.

Upon returning to The Gazebo, we prepare for the ceremony and reception.  But first, Ryan & Ray take in the elements of the room.  One of them cried upon the first look - but I won't say who :-).  It was satisfying just to know they were pleased with our efforts.  Thanks to Fairy Tale Flowers, not only did the bridal party have the perfect accessories, but the Paris Pastry's cake was stunning!

Ray's happy with the cake :-)

After a beautifully touching ceremony, guests were treated to hors d'oeuvres while the grooms and bridal party took a few more shots.  Once the bridal party was introduced and toasts were made, the lights dimmed and dinner began with a BANG! Vibrant lighting, provided by AtLarge Sound & Lighting, helped us transition from the ceremony to the reception.

Start of dinner service.

Once the party began, it seemed to never end.  EVERY guest seemed to enjoy themselves.  The young, and the not-so-young!  Thanks to DJ Maestro of B.O.M.B.Z. Musik Entertainment the dance floor stayed packed.

Tahj... having a BLAST!

At the end of the night, moms, dads, guests... and most importantly, Ryan & Ray were all smiles.  Congratulations to a beautiful couple!  Thanks for letting Pink Tie Preferred create your Signature Event.

For details regarding this event, the Haut Vendors, or other information, visit: www.pinktiepreferred.com 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Haut Vendors:

Bakery: Paris Pastry
Event Design/Wedding Planning:  Pink Tie Preferred

Florist: Fairy Tale Flowers
Photography:  The Village Paparazzi 
Make-up: Custom Eyes and TinaJanel
Lighting: AtLarge Sound & LightingMusic: DJ Maestro / B.O.M.B.Z. Musik Entertainment, and private bandVenue: The Gazebo 

 

What's Haut in 2012?

We're already seeing some trends in 2012... some have carried over from 2011, others are new.  Looking to make sure your wedding is HAUT?  Try incorporating some of these into your special day!

• Two Dresses: Brides are still wearing two, or more gowns, on their special day.  We've already learned that Academy Award Winner, R&B sensation Jennifer Hudson designed her gown evolve from the time she appears in the aisle to the time she reaches the altar.  With the right designer, you two can plan either for multiple gowns or an evolving gown.
• Hats: The royal wedding of William & Kate reintroduced us to hats worn, by mothers and guests, to the ceremony.  Look for more weddings to include hats.
• Brooch Bridal Bouquets: Going for a more vintage look, more brides are swapping out the floral bouquets for ones made of brooches.  Some are vintage, some are bling. Either way, it's a way to stand out. Just know in advance... this haut look is often quite heavy as well.
• Stations: Still just as popular, couples are providing their guests with a plethora of options by offering stations during the cocktail hour, reception, and even after dinner.  These stations can include hometown favorites, ethnic cuisine, desserts, or even drink specialities - such as, liqueur, tea, wine, champagne and cocktails. 
• Bars/Buffets: The candy bar (buffet) has definitely run its course, but it remains a crowd favorite - especially for those planning a more family friendly event.  However, other alternatives have entered the scene such as sushi bars (for the cocktail hour) and cookie bars (for dessert).
• Black Tie: More couples are hosting formal events.  While it's great to have more casual events, people have missed the opportunity to get dolled up for special occasions. As such, look for more formal weddings - and dress accordingly.
• After Parties: With more formal events, this may sometimes include a dinner reception which includes several courses.  Depending on the guest list, couples may or may not wish to get the party going with Grandma Ruby and Great Uncle Joe front in center. So guests are offering a more relaxed after party, where the attire is a bit more relaxed, the cocktails continue, and the guest list includes a select group of V.I.P. guests.

We've only offered a short list of our 2012 trends. For more trends and ideas on how to have an HAUT event that will WOW you and your guests, contact us today and let us help you!

You're Engaged!! Now What??

"Congratulations!" Get used to it... It's a word you're going to hear a lot of! This is an exciting time for you and your fiance! We're so very happy for you - just as your friends and loved ones are.

But now that it's began to sink in... you're engaged... NOW WHAT? What's the next step? We understand how excitement can quickly turn into feeling overwhelmed. At Pink Tie Preferred, we work to ensure each client enjoys the wedding planning process. Don't you want to have a blast at your own wedding? Want an event that's unlike any other?

Let us help you with how to build your wedding team!  The best way is by working with an experienced and knowledgeable event and/or wedding planning firm, like Pink Tie Preferred! But if you're too excited, and would like to begin now - here are a few tips to finding the right vendors for you...

Do Your Homework.  You’ll get much more out of a meeting or conversation with a wedding professional if you do a little background homework first.  Spend some time on the internet or talking to friends who’ve recently been married.  Find out the average prices in your area and what services are available.  Get an idea of what you like and don’t like.  Wedding websites and chat rooms can be a great resource.  This way when you meet with a wedding professional you’ll be able to ask better questions and have an idea of what to look out for.

Meet With Them.  An in person meeting is the best way to interview a potential wedding vendor.  It lets you get the full experience of their personality, style and professionalism.  If that’s not possible, have a phone conversation.   

Ask Questions.  There are no stupid questions!  Make sure you get clear, specific answers to your questions. If you aren't sure what something means, ask them to clarify. Keep asking questions until you completely understand. If a wedding vendor has a problem with you asking questions, they probably aren’t the one for you.  The best wedding professionals are patient, understanding and take the time to help you make the best choices for your wedding.

Listen.  Don’t just hear the words they say, really listen.  Watch the vendor’s body language.  Are they confident and comfortable with their response?  Do they look and sound nervous?  Do you get a “funny feeling” about them?  Take all the sights, sounds and feelings into account along with their responses; if your gut tells you something isn’t right, it probably isn’t.

Check References.  Portfolios are hand-picked to show off the best work, but they may not represent the “average” wedding performance.  Videos are edited for the optimum presentation.  But real referrals from satisfied clients are hard to fake.  Call up both client and professional references.  Ask questions and use those listening skills.  Even if they give a rave review, you’ll often be able to “read between the lines” if there were any issues or problems. Ask around and search the internet for reviews.  Check the Better Business Bureau for any outstanding complaints against the business.  Weigh all of this information into your choices.

If chosen wisely, with the right wedding team you get expert help and advice…for free!  Contact us today at (248) 560-PINK or by vising our website at http://www.pinktiepreferred.com/ to schedule a complimentary introduction interview today!

#OneTwoOneTwo

It's here! #OneTwoOneTwo

Today, January 2, 2012 is the first official day for Pink Tie Preferred, LLC | Signature Haut-Monde Events!  We've been working very hard behind the scenes to ensure a smooth transition from our former identity - j. marie & associates.

As you know, our NEW website debuted 12 hours into the 12th day before 2012 - if you haven't already, check it out: http://www.pinktiepreferred.com/.  Be sure to sign up for our mailing list so you can keep up with what we're up to. 

You can also Follow Us on Twitter and Like Us on Facebook!

Wishing you and your's a fantabulous 2012!

Are you ready??

It's here!!!  Our website is open to the public!

It's taken some time to get the website just the way I wanted it but I believe it's an exemplary example of our services.

Go ahead, don't be shy! Take a look at the site - and sign up for our mailing list while you're there!

Bookmark us today: www.pinktiepreferred.com

Don't forget to share this with your friends!  We specialize in weddings, but offer event planning services for all types of events!