It’s time for another question answered by Wedding Industry Experts! The question this week was “What is the most unexpected thing that has happened on the day of a client’s wedding?”

Read their answers on the Wedding Industry Experts website!

Yet another BEAUTIFUL couple was blogged about! Jenifer and Jonathan private home wedding, featured on The Wedding Wire Blog, is giving Tennessee a name in the wedding industry!

Matt Andrews has been awesome about getting his work published! Sara and Kyle’s wedding was published again!! This time in Aphrodite’s Wedding Blog!

Photographs by Shannon Jenkins Photography

If you have ever been to a Bar or Bat Mitzvah, you know 13 year olds know how to have a good time! Talia was no exception! We created a night club for all the guests to dance the night away! Spangler Entertainment provided entertainment for the evening and helped set the ambiance of the Loews Vanderbilt ballroom. A split room let the kids enjoy their freedom in a fun blue lit eating area, as the adults were able to relax for a seated dinner by candle light. The crowd absorbed all the details and Jewish traditions, including the hora, a photobooth, and a homemade video by Talia’s sister. As the night came to a close, guests happily danced out the door back to their homes and hotel rooms.

Check out the photographer’s, McLellan Style, blog post about Kelly and Roger’s wedding!

Stay posted for an artistic video by Zane Karl Studios!

Lauren and Stewart were married in Scarritt Bennett in front of tons of floating candles! Lauren looked stunning in her classically designed dress! As the couple ran through hundreds of tiny bubbles before getting on the trolley that took them to aVenue. The reception was decorated in a vintage feel, with furniture by Southern Events and gold frames highlighting their engagement photos. An empty fireplace framed the beautiful cake by Jay Qualls. Mood lighting by Nashville Event Lighting created a romantic feel, as a wall of candles hung over guests as they entered. Chef’s Market provided guests a delicious buffet. The Crystal Clear Band kept the crowd dancing all night long! Before guests left, they could create a bag full of fun candies from the candy bar. As Lauren and Stewart walked to their getaway car, guests rattled hand-made “pill jars” with the prescription for a perfect marriage! See it all in a beautiful video made by Zane Karl Studios!

Photography by Kristyn Hogan

Every week, Wedding Industry Experts asks planning professionals a question about their business techniques and strategies. It is an excellent way of educating both the public and those interested in starting a career in the event industry. This week’s question was “What do you do to prepare for a first meeting with a client?” Check out my response, as well as many other professionals here!!

A lot of times, guests will travel great distances to be a part of your wedding. A wonderful way of saying thank you is through a welcome bag that is waiting for them at the hotel. They often include a couple bottles of water, the weekend’s itinerary, and a few fun things that are unique to the city in which the wedding is held.

For instance, in Nashville, there is a store called The Sunshine Shop, which offers a variety of different Tennessee goodies! It is normally free to leave the bags with the hotel’s front desk and have them passed out as the guests arrive. For a small fee, you can have the hotel staff hand deliver the bags to each room. Either way, guests will appreciate the thought you put into making their stay extraordinary!

Check out these beautiful pictures by Matt Andrews featured in Rock the Aisle AND Ashley’s Bride Guide! I’m so glad Chef’s Market got recognized for their delicious food!!

What a wonderful evening! Amber and Andre embraced the rich colors given by the Country Music Hall of Fame with a deep purple and teal theme! The ambiance was set by Nashville Event Lighting, as a teal LED rippled up Visual Element‘s distinct crushed metal. Rhonda Patton decorated the room with submerged tulips and floating lights. Music City Tents & Events provided the modern glass tables, while French Confection created a cake masterpiece spotlighted by the entrance. The most exciting moment of the evening was when Amber’s sorority sisters were called to the dance floor for their traditional wedding song. After serenading the guests, they broke out into their stomp routine, which really turned up the rooms energy! It was an amazing moment for both the girls and spectators!!

The Destination Wedding Conference was made possible by Cinza and Alice with Sposiamo Vi. Their aim was to show the unique personalities of each venue, allowing the planners’ imaginations to run wild. By visiting the venues and meeting the vendors, planners could develop accurate recommendations for future destination brides.

Properties:

Marina di Loano- Not your typical boating marina, this port also has the Bfly club with luxurious amenities and a variety of beautiful locations to hold a wedding. Whether by the cabana lined beach or in the yacht club, you do not need a membership to take advantage of these outstanding venues. Clean lines and furnishings provide guests a relaxing resort-like experience.

Castello Il Palagio- A medieval castle dating back to 1200, this historic house can be rented for any kind of event. Situated amongst the endless vineyards and olive groves of the Chianti region, the villa is an Italian escape. The beautiful scenery serves as the dream background for romantic wedding events and photographs. Imagine telling all of your friends you were married in an Italian castle!

Signora del Vento- How would you like to get married on the open sea? Here is your chance! This magnificent ship has the finest chef and most spacious accommodation on the Mediterranean. It even offers water sports off the stern platform, for those looking for a little extra fun. For being detached from land, it has everything you could want.

Hotels:

Villa Cimbrone- With the entire property being stunningly beautiful, this hotel is suitable for any kind of wedding. What was once a 12th century residence has been transformed into a hotel for those wanting a taste of the buildings heritage. The well perserved hotel allows guests to imagine a life living in an Italian villa.

La Canzone del Mare- Located on Capri Island, this hotel has breathtaking views overlooking the ocean. Built back in the 1800s by an Italian opera writer, the hotel’s history has become a well known aspect of the island. The staff will make you feel like royalty as they wine and dine you through your wedding.

Excelsior Palace Hotel- Though I travelled around to the different venues, the conference was held in this hotel. Overlooking the Portofino coastline, the view was stunning! I would often sit by the pool on my breaks, enjoying the cloudless blue skies and sunlight. It was great to have such a comfortable place to come back to in the evenings.

Loano 2 Village- If you look for a hotel with lots of adventure and fun things to do, this is the one for you! Situated by 2 rivieras, there is everything from caves to Aquariums near by. With a kid friendly environment, it is perfect for an active wedding party of all ages.

Esplanade Hotel Resort & Spa- Located on the shore of Lake Maggiore, this Mediterranean inspired hotel places emphasis on relaxation and the environment. With a tranquil spa, views overlooking the beautiful water and mountains, and environmentally friendly architecture, the hotel would serve as a wonderful accommodation for your guests!

La Cervara- This hotel is quintessential Italy! With a perfectly sculpted landscape, overflowing with blooming flowers and endless greenery, and tiled arced doorways, the hotel is a stunning image of Italy. The history leads all the way back to 1361 when the building was used as a monastery. In an effort to preserve their background, the surroundings are an irresistible backdrop for a wedding.

Ca’Sagredo Hotel- Looking to get married in Venice? This hotel is a perfect mix of Venetian elegance and sophistication. Imagine traveling to your hotel by gondola and getting the first glimpse of your muraled reception. If you want an elaborate, romantic Italian wedding, this is the place for you!

Minareto Grand Hotel- This hotel is true to its name, grand! On the coast of Siracusa, Italy, the hotel pays close attention to detail, both on site and with their guests. Welcoming guests through art and history, the hotel guarantees comfort and a glorious Italian experience.

Villa Principe Leopoldo Hotel & Spa- The conference also included vendors from other European countries. This hotel is located in Lugano, Switzerland, amongst the unbelievable mountains. The hotel prides themselves in providing trailer-made events, suitable to the clients’ needs. The building is perfectly positioned to allow sun to stream through each and every room. One walk on the terrace and you will fall in love with Switzerland and the hotel!

Daios Cove- Demetrius, the owner of the resort, showed me first hand their one of a kind customer service. Located in Crete, his hotel is an upscale experience from decor to food. With childcare center, parents are free to enjoy the state of the art spa in peace. The infinity pool offers the spacious rooms an undistracted view of the water below. The site also has a number of different size villas available for the more private guest looking for an escape.

LifeClass Hotel and Spa- Situated on coastal Slovenia, this hotel is bringing tourism to the small central European country. As the center of the town, this hotel is known for it’s Portus Congress Centre where numerous groups meet annually. The hotel not only provides a high quality experience for adults, but also appeals to children with a pool, care center, and on-site playground.

Restaurants:

Manuelina- Whenever you tell people you are going to Italy, the first thing they tell you is to eat as much as possible, because you will not find food that good anywhere in the states! We went to this restaurant one evening and I finally understood what everyone was talking about. Having been in business since the 1800s, when grandmother Manuelina first began serving Cheese Focaccia, this fun loving family has been sharing their family recipes for years.

Entertainment:

Djwedding- After dancing the night away at the welcome party, we found out that the dj was more than just spinning turn tables. The organization has swept the wedding industry by providing a diverse crew of various backgrounds. They are a one stop shop for couples, offering everything from photographers to  jazz quartets, new idea in the market.

Photography:

Emotions Mago di Oz- Federico Valenzano, an Italian photographer, makes a point to capture the personal elements of a wedding. Mixing a classic journalistic approach and staged romantic still shots, he works with the couple to provide a unique documentation of their special day.

Sandro Ariu Photography- Sandro Ariu aims to tell the story of your wedding with his camera. He captures the natural sincerity of the event through emotion and attention to detail. With two photographers at each event, the images portray many different perspectives. His quality has even been recognized through various national awards.

Floral Design:

Rattiflora- This florist can create anything from flowers! Whether softening a ceremony area with overflowing blooms, tightly packing a bridal bouquet, or forming an intricate design out of flower heads, these florist can make your floral fantasies a reality.

I had the BEST time, visiting lots of amazing places and meeting many new friends!

Thanks to Riccardo Lavezzo for capturing the fun we had in his fabulous documentation!

Just imagine, YOU could be my next destination bride to get married in Italy!

“Hey Angela,

Here is the  rough “out line”  of the week of the 16th of April.

I wish we could go take pictures in our Tux with horse. Make it very KING Arthur (or KING ROGER and his Horse men!) HA!!

Feel free to add.

Tuesday:

Boys arrive

Pick up Best Man from the Airport

Check into Cottage

Me and Groom work out

Lunch

Pick up Groomsman 1 from airport

Groomsman 2 arrives by car

Groomsman 3 arrives by Car.

Boys go to dinner to celebrate (Restaurant ??)

Wednesday:

Boys workout at the box with Groom

Tux fitting

Lunch

Grocery store (By stuff for Poker Night)

Liquor Store

Poker Night at the Cottage (include Bride’s Brother and Dad if you want too or

what ever else. They just have to bring something to add to the pot.)

Thursday:

Work out

Lunch or Lunch at the Cottage

Nap

Sight See or Do something unusual

Dinner at the cottage or out to a Restaurant.

CLUB (Dance Club)

Friday:

Check out of Cottage

Pick Up Tux and last minute wedding stuff.

Shave/Hair Cuts..etc (Grooming Day)

Lunch at Groom’s place

Chill

Rehearsal and Rehearsal Dinner

Saturday:

Breakfast at Groom’s

Mimosa’s at the House

Are you getting married in 2012? Imagine having your wedding on top of a Mayan Temple!

Romantic Travel Belize, Destination Bride, and NICH are giving 11 special couples the opportunity of a lifetime! By going to 2012weddingsbelize.com, couples can enter to for a chance to be married on top of a Mayan temple on the historic date of 12-12-12!

Sarah Houser is a bright spirited, hard working individual, and is optimistic about making her dreams come true! A graduate of Elon University in Strategic Communications, Sarah gained a diverse background through her experiences exuding with the music industry, photography, and nonprofit organizations. Having studied abroad numerous times, she values cultural knowledge and understanding. Sarah holds personal emphasis on positivity, organization, and communication; all traits she finds obligatory to professionalism. When an opportunity arose in Nashville to gain first hand experience into the wedding and special event industry, Sarah left North Carolina to start a life in Tennessee. The experience has fueled her passion for event planning, causing a deeper desire to learn and succeed. She is excited to see where this path could take her.

Check out the rest of their shoot by McLellan Style!

Congratulations, you two! Can’t wait for the wedding!

There is a new venue in town! Built out of the old CAO Cigar headquarters, OZ provides a blank slate, allowing your creativity run wild! Doubling as an installation art exhibit, the clean lines of the building offer a modern, contemporary atmosphere. Even though only opening recently, the venue has already had three very successful events. With a 15,000 square foot warehouse, the room can be divided and sculpted to suit any number of guests. Whether for corporate functions, fundraisers,weddings or other events, OZ is the Nashville’s newest hidden treasure!

This bride really went above and beyond to add the little personal touches that made her wedding so unique. After leaving the ceremony at McKendree Church, the couple headed to WO Smith for a beautiful reception. Village of Flowers, Lavender Lane Catering, and Connie Duglin helped the bride to develop her image. She even made ornaments that hung from trees with little sayings on them! Working with Jay Qualls, she was able to design a fabulous wedding cake and grooms cake, fitting for her fiancees love of Alabama! The couple wrote letters to one another, in which they tucked away in a custom wood box for their one year anniversary!

Welcome to BALI! Though Indonesia is not typically known as a honeymoon destination, Four Seasons Hotel and Resort in Jimbaran Bay is putting Bali on the map! With everything from a cooking school to an art gallery, the resort mixes culture and class, providing a relaxing and enriching experience to all guests!

The Winter Wonderland wedding was featured in People Magazine!

Images by Skipper Photography

This wedding was truly unique! With pilots being in the family, the Zyla and Rondell had their wedding in an air hanger. We had a lot of fun with floor plan, making it in the shape of an aircraft with the sweetheart table as the nose of the plane. I have to give a special thanks to the guys from Music City Tent’s and Events. They were very patient with me as I had them move the tables back and forth for the PERFECT layout!

See more pictures here!

Congratulations Lauren and Stewart! These two drove all the way to Alabama to get her grandmother’s vintage furniture for the photo shoot! It sure did pay off, these pictures by Kristyn Hogan are gorgeous!

Over the last few months you have been an answer to my prayers. I was at my wits end with the lack of communication on planning and wanted to make sure everything stayed positive regardless of what it took.

Thank you for not only helping make that happen but also for every single thing you did for all of us. Everything was wonderful although I know that behind the scenes it was a struggle.

You are truly gifted in what you do and we were truly blessed to have found you. I have told everyone that this wedding would not have been possible without you, and I mean it!

Thanks again!

Karen

Angela,

Thank you so much for everything you provided Ron and me with for our wedding day. I still marvel at pictures and it is still my favorite subject to speak about in a daily basis! Your work is truly a gift and we wish you the best in what you do!

Hug,

Karesse

• It’s also important to talk about how you want to use money in your relationship and in your life.

Household & Chores

• Talk about what constitutes clean.

Dating

• Discuss what you expect love to look like after your wedding day.

To read more on the tips, check out the original blog post by Marie McKinney-Oates.

Pin spotting is an excellent way to highlight the unique elements of the event. For instance, pin spotting a table arrangement can really make a difference in the overall look of the room.

In the image above, notice the use of pin spotting in the daylight. The difference in lighting is clearly seen in the flowers in the back. Though it was not done on purpose, it was the perfect example of the difference it can make.

Think your wedding budget is complete? Don’t forget to account for tipping your wedding vendors! In the wedding industry, reading the fine print is important when determining a tip. Many vendors include a percentage of gratitude in the final bill. For instance; in most catering and bar services the tip will be listed as a ‘service charge’.  Transportation and valet usually do not include gratuity, so this is something to budget for.  Also, many ministers, priests or officiants will not accept a cash tip, but contributing to their ministry is greatly appreciated.  To keep it simple, give your planner envelopes prior to the wedding day so you are not bothered.

Lauren’s Sweet 16 was so much fun! Walking in Richland Country Club was like swimming into the sea. With sushi, a mermaid dancer, glass bubbles hanging from the ceiling, and a blue bubble bar, by the end of the night, we were making waves! There were even risers covered in seaweed for the kids to dance on! At the end of the night, a custom candy bar let everyone get a bit of sweets for the road!

I was so honored to be the planner for this gracious bride! Check out the blog post by my friend David from Renaissance Floral Design!

“My calendar indicated, “Meeting with Angela Proffitt, wedding planner from Nashville,” I had no idea what I was in for … the doors blew open, and there she was … all 5’1”. She said, “I have a wedding I’d like to talk with you about.” She further explained that one of her weddings planned for spring, which was basically finished, had been moved up to January. Scheduling conflicts for the spring date resulted in a window of three weeks to get her soon-to-be Mr. and Mrs down the aisle. She was so darn cute with that Texas hair and Southern accent, I just had to help her out! At the end of our meeting, she was off to Saratoga to see a venue selected for the event. I said, “Let me know if you need anything.” She replied, “Don’t you worry, I will.” Three hours later …  a text: “OMG, HELP!”  I set her up to see one of my favorite catering pros, Traci, at Saratoga National Golf Club. They met at 5:30 pm; around 9:00 I got a call … “I need a location!” I said, “Already on it. I have us set up for three spots tomorrow. Go get some rest, call me in the morning.”

We toured the locations and eventually settled on one. Off the beaten path, we could make it private,  and the groom’s mom mentioned she loved this property, which was the icing on the cake. In three days, we had everything locked down — caterer, menu, location, and design. Angela gave me the tools I needed, and together we had everything in motion as she headed back to Nashville.

It was a nonstop text message, phone call, iChat, screen share, Skype, conference call, Facetime, fax, email, screen shot, Dropbox, FedEx, USPS, special delivery whirlwind of details. Angela and her assistant, Samantha, had Tennessee covered. They managed a destination wedding for the couple with perfection without letting anyone know where they were going or what they would be doing until they got there.  As the wheels hit the tarmac, and the tour buses rolled into Albany, we were prepped and ready.

On January 7th 2012,  North met South, and it was on for this special couple! None of this would have been possible without the cooperation and trust of all those involved. So it is with great thanks that I include the following old and new friends.

Photographer Joe Buissink for reworking his scheduling to make sure he could be there, and for the pics in this blog. The boys at Full Frame Cinema for the time-lapse video, and making the hexacopter fly. Vera Wangfor the couture. Jon Werking for playing the baby grand and Steven Curtis Chapman for the soulful vocals. Jay Qualls Inc. for the sweets! The culinary talents and management of the Mazzone Group. TheAppel Inn for giving me the keys,  and letting me do my thing. Michael Frodey and staff of Clifton Park Rentalfor pulling an all-nighter the eve of the wedding. Rebecca Ashby of The Pink Orange for the fastest stationery and menu turn-around in history. The skilled hands of Pya Seidner for her meticulous calligraphy within hours of the event. Ashley Cole for the beautiful logo.  Blake Chaffin at Nashville Event Lighting.  The hair and makeup team who trekked from Nashville to NY. Zane Hauck for the edit on the featured video of this blog. Marcel for keeping an eye out. My dear, long-time friend, Lori, who took care of the bride and her entourage as they got ready at my home. My talented team at Renaissance Floral Design. And without a doubt, to my long-lost twin, Angela Proffitt … we were separated at birth, but we have been reunited! Ya’ll better watch out!”

Thank you David Michael Schmit for awesome experience and blog!

I love cultural weddings! It adds an extra challenge and excitement to the planning process! When I met Elizabeth and Nick, I was so excited to work with them, especially after hearing their story! They first met at Vanderbilt, where they often had study dates in the library. Together, we had a lot of fun planning different way to incorporate Elizabeth’s Indian culture, in the Sangeet, and their love for the library. For the reception, at Loews Vanderbilt, we used old library cards as escort tags.

Martin O’Connor Photography

The depth of what God is doing in us/around us/THROUGH us has been such an amazing thing to witness- and we know He’s just getting started! This day is definitely the beginning of a LOT of great things that HE has planned- and you’ve made it more perfect than I could even dream! You’ve made our dreams come to life, and you’ve made them even BETTER, and THAT is the biggest blessing (and most meaningful blessing) I could have asked for. I can’t thank you enough for making my bride the happiest in the world!

THANK YOU!!!

Groom