“Winter is Coming” in July – Whose Idea Was That?? Blueprint Studios!

Posted on July 14, 2016 by jlammerts

Blueprint Studios, famous for their creativity in event design, put their own skills to the test today – they invited the wedding professionals community to their warehouse to present their new collections with a typically creative event: “Winter is Coming!” (in July…)

What that is? Leave it to the Blueprint creatives… serenaded from the mezzanine,

guests were treated to a “cabinet of curiosities” – whimsical wintery tablescapes..

dining set-ups…

and lounge vignettes..

were competing for attention with more “July” (Hawaii??) themed groupings…

… and any creative “fusion” in between! What about a white Christmas tree adorned with fresh orchids…

or a tabletop variety composed entirely of cocktail paper parasols?!

Nothing is impossible at Blueprint! And their new collection is so fresh and different! I couldn’t get enough of even their chair collection…

Strategic partner Hensley presented beautiful new china patterns…

and a lot more, as listed on this menu card:

plus chargers in any color and style you can think of, to round out their tabletop offerings… and if you are still not convinced…

This incredible rainbow of colors – that’s their drapes!! I think that’s pretty unbeatable. Draperies in salmon, copper or lilac. I found my “Aladdin’s Cave!”

The “eye candy” was complemented by “culinary candy” provided by Componere..

Chef Ethan Mantle of Componere

… a company that spearheads culinary creativity even in its very name – “componere” is Latin for “to compose, to create.” Which they did – fresh mini tortillas filled with squash blossoms, accompanied by Patron cocktails in mini bottles…

and, my favorite, dark chocolate shells with a liquid blackberry filling. Divine!!

As of today, I am an official fan of “Christmas in July.” And of Blueprint, of course!

Fete en Blanc at the Palace Hotel: the Ultimate in Chic

Posted on July 12, 2016 by jlammerts

All who know Cristine Thomas, Editor-in-Chief of Today’s Bride Magazine (and who wouldn’t know HER?) also knows that her parties are out of this world. Truly beyond anything you’ve seen before! And she manages every single time to exceed even her own records… And now imagine she’s joined forces with Nick Eric of Luxe Bridal Shows and Cindy Danbom of Bella Notte Events! Well, the result was breathtaking: the party of parties at the venerable Palace Hotel SF…

… where the Grand Ballroom and adjacent rooms were decorated in all-white (of course) – and where right at the entrance an ice sculpture by Chisel-It

set the tone of elegance and glamour for what was awaiting the guests who flocked to the Palace Hotel in droves! I met so many dear friends and industry colleagues – florists Janelle Jacky-Litt of Green Petal Designs, Mandy Scott, Edgar Martinez of Flowers by Edgar, and Nancy Liu Chin; photographers Kevin Chin, Michelle Walker and Misti Layne; fellow wedding planners Deborah Moody of ACPWC (my teacher and mentor!) and Chanda Eddens of A Monique Affair; Kevin Dennis of Fantasy Sound, Diana Cardenas of Napa Valley Linens and Sue Leggett of Classic Party Rentals… Everyone was wearing all white in accordance with the party theme, even the Champagne Skirt ladies from Circosphere …

Circosphere

… and the stilt walkers…

Earth Circus Productions

… and the contortionists…

Earth Circus Productions

… from Earth Circus Productions whose performances were accompanied by the Dick Bright Orchestra.

The lavish floral decor was created by Edgar Martinez of Flowers by Edgar …

… and guests were treated to Wine, Champagne, a multitude of tasty bites (Michi’s, my favorite sushi specialist, was also there!) and an incredible dessert bar (among others – Pretty Please):

You know what? My diet resumes tomorrow. Today was totally worth the splurge!

Thanks so much, Cristine and Nick, for having me – it was fabulous!

How to Plan Your Financial Future as a Couple

Posted on July 1, 2016 by jlammerts

How to Plan Your New Financial Life as a Couple

Future newlyweds have so much on their plate when they first decide to tie the knot. They have to plan the wedding and take care of a thousand and one responsibilities so that everything goes off without a hitch.

Financial planning as a new couple is a conversation that’s often pushed way in the background. But should it be? What happens if you aren’t financially compatible? Where do you go from there as a couple?

Instead of ignoring your new financial life, do yourselves a favor and tackle it head-on. This is something that you need to do as a newly married couple. Since money problems are the main reason that couples argue, it makes sense to get on the same financial page in the marriage as early as you can.

Having the Dreaded (or Not so Dreaded) Money Talk

In a perfect world, you’ll realize that it’s important to have the money talk as soon as your relationship begins to get serious. Many couples find themselves financially connected before they actually get married. The sooner you have the money talk, the better it is for the relationship, and the better chance you’ll have at thriving as a couple.

Everyone has their own views about money. Some of us live like money grows on trees and that it is available in unlimited abundance. And depending on your financial situation – it might be. Others feel that money is a finite and limited resource. They work hard to scrimp and save so that they can get ahead and live comfortably in retirement.

Both members of the couple need to come together financially. Having the same money views is not necessarily required. But if you are too far apart on this topic, it could make it difficult – if not impossible – to live and grow together as a married couple.

Creating Common Financial Goals

If a couple seems too far apart on money issues, it may seem like all hope is lost for the relationship. But this doesn’t need to be true as long as you’re willing to compromise.

Instead of throwing in the towel, create common financial goals as a couple. When you begin working together to achieve common financial ground, not only will your relationship grow stronger; you’ll also begin t0 live happier lives and feel good about money and how it now has a positive impact on your relationship.

Have Regular Money Meetings as a Couple

Unfortunately, all of your money inconsistencies will not disappear after one conversation. This topic needs to be discussed regularly so that you consistently stay on the same page.

Money problems are going to arise. As a couple, you must commit to regular communication so that you can hash out money matters together. By holding regular money meetings, you can plan for your future together, set a budget/review your current budget, come up with ideas for a fun filled vacation, discover creative fundraising ideas, and so much more.

If you want to start off your married life as a happy couple, getting on the same page in your financial life is an absolute must. Heed the warnings shared with you today and use this information to guide your financial future.

A Wedding on Top of the World: Megan and Casey at Thomas Fogarty Winery

Posted on June 27, 2016 by jlammerts

Here comes a little preview on one of the most beautiful and most quintessential Californian summer weddings of the season: Megan’s and Casey’s celebration last weekend at Thomas Fogarty Winery in Woodside.

The setting is simply spectacular – high up on the crest of the mountain ridge running along the SF Peninsula, overlooking endless vineyards down to the San Francisco Bay with unobstructed views… it’s literally on top of the world! Megan and Casey could not have chosen better for their nuptials – this was sure to wow their more than 150 guests from far and near.

Megan, who had been away for study abroad and humanitarian work, only returned to the Bay Area three weeks before the Great Day. By then, her Mom had done most of the preparations together with my company, A Day Like No Other. But Megan jumped right in and put her own spin and her own finishing touches on everything in that short time! Our Senior Coordinator Kelsey Holtzinger guided the planning process on the “last stretch” and coordinated the festivities expertly from start to finish.

Come wedding day, Heaven was literally smiling on us – Megan and Casey had the perfect day with blue skies, summery warm sunshine and a slight breeze… Fogarty Winery showed itself at its best:

Endless views and extensive vineyards…

… and vintage trucks just for the sheer beauty of it!

The bride got ready in the cottage onsite:

… and here she is, radiant and ready to meet her husband-to-be!

Casey meanwhile got his boutonniere:

… and off to the much-anticipated First Look!

A few more photos…… and it was already time for the ceremony.

“You may now kiss your bride!”

Official wedding photo of the new “Mr. and Mrs.”:

Meanwhile, the venue staff, catering staff of La Bocca Fina catering and my tireless Senior Coordinator Kelsey had beautifully set up everything for cocktails and dinner. In accordance with the winery setting, wine corks did duty as escort card holders:

and the dining tables in the open-air pavilion were set with gorgeous centerpieces by Bloomsters.

Dinner was presided over by the newlyweds at their Sweetheart Table:

… while guests feasted on a fresh farm-to-table dinner from gold-accented plates, flatware and glassware.

Photographer Nathan Worden snuck the couple away for Sunset photos:

Entertainment was provided by Big Fun Diskjockeys and Night Owl Photo Booth.

Here, Megan and Casey share their First Dance as a married couple:

… followed by a wild dance party:

Photographer Nathan Worden and Owl and Tree Videography captured all those precious moments.

When dusk fell, the scenery turned downright magical…

… and the newlyweds were sent off to their married bliss with a sparkler parade!

To Megan and Casey – our very best wishes for a long and happy marriage!

How to Make Sure Your Wedding is Fun for Everyone!

Posted on June 27, 2016 by jlammerts

For pretty much all our couples, their wedding day celebration is by far the biggest party they’ve ever thrown, and the most intricate project they’ve ever tackled. Aside from the planning and logistics themselves, what is necessary to make the wedding celebration fun for everyone? What is it that sets an average party apart from an unforgettable one which everyone keeps raving about? I’m not talking about over-the-top-glamour, Hollywood-worthy entertainment or other perks only big money can buy. I am talking about the little things, the personal touches that make everyone feel good and special and well taken care of. To me, that’s an integral part of the overall wedding experience, just as much as good food and music.

1. You, the couple – totally worry-free

Let’s begin with the stars of the day: you, the Bride and Groom! Here at A Day Like No Other, our mantra is: Our couples have only ONE job on their wedding day, and that is – to celebrate! All our couples tell me afterwards that their wedding day flew by and that they can hardly remember all of it. We strive to maximize what our brides and grooms remember. We want you to be in the moment and to focus on what this day is about: committing your lives to one another. And that’s why we make sure that everything you might need and want on your wedding day has been meticulously planned ahead of time. Plus during Cocktail Hour, when most couples are busy taking photos, we make sure a platter of appetizers is set aside for them in a quiet side room with a chilled bottle of Champagne, and once photo session is over, we whisk them away for a few minutes of well-deserved break before presenting them to their guests.

2. The couple is “off-limits” for anything but celebrating!

What else? We, the planners, make sure that nobody will bother our couples with anything during their wedding day. Another mantra – or rather our promise to our couples: “If there is a glitch, you will not know!” It’s true: we do what is humanly possible to keep our couples out of it. And if you don’t have a wedding coordinator, you should absolutely designate one point person for all logistical issues and whatever else might come up. We at A Day Like No Other are even wearing funny buttons identifying us as the wedding planners… and invariably, that does not only “crack up” everyone – they will also find us and ask us for assistance. No one interrupts the couples’ partying!

3. Your parents

For most parents, their children’s wedding day is at least as important as for the bride and groom themselves. It’s an occasion they have been looking forward to since bride and groom were children, hoping for them to find a soul mate and lifelong companion who will take care of them once the parents are gone. Giving a child away in marriage is a milestone in parenting. It’s also a day to look back on all the sweet memories of that now grown-up man or woman when they were little, when they had just entered the world, and also to think back to one’s own wedding day, one’s own parents. It’s definitely a day of memories. And that’s why we encourage all our couples to include such memories in their celebration, e.g. , as a gallery of family photos.

4. Your older guests

Most of our couples invite quite a few older guests – grandparents and other relatives of that generation. Oftentimes, these feel a little lost in a crowd of young people. We make it a point to include them and make them feel an integral part of the couple’s family history. One unobtrusive way of making older guests feel good is to include music choices they are comfortable and familiar with – be it a few Frank Sinatra or Elvis songs or 80s top hits. Yes! It is possible to mix those in, and you should see those smiles on their faces! And in lieu of a bouquet toss, we often do a “generation dance” with the bride presenting her bouquet to the guest couple with the longest-lasting marriage.

5. All guests: look after them!

For many guests, attending a wedding means taking days off work, planning and paying for travel… despite the joy of seeing a friend or family member getting married, it’s also a lot of effort. Guests appreciate being well taken care of – they tend to remember that experience even more than the food! So, let’s make them feel special and well-taken care of. Here is what we recommend: Keep guests well informed, and the easiest way is a detailed wedding website. We recommend our couples to offer logistical help to their guests whenever possible, be it for accommodations, local climate and choice of attire. Plus, this is also a good spot to drop a hint regarding dress code… politely. Nobody wants to be seriously under- or overdressed for the occasion! The more the guests know beforehand, the easier it is for them to plan accordingly.

6. Help your guests with the logistics

The same holds true for the schedule of the wedding day itself. We recommend to include on the wedding website one page devoted to nothing but the logistics: Directions, parking restrictions, shuttle bus service, specifics about the property (e.g. walks over uneven terrain), cell phone reception, and when guests are expected to be where.

7. Make your guests feel welcome

Nothing makes guests feel welcome more than – Welcome Bags! Yes, we know, it’s a lot of work to assemble them (we do that for our clients…) Include personalized bottled water), snacks, local specialties like small bottles of wine or olive oil, local chocolates; a walking map and/or brochures for local sightseeing trips. And then, of course, a personal letter from the couple expressing their joy to have all these guests from faraway locations together for their wedding day.

8. Keep your guests comfy

And that’s why the pampering of guests doesn’t stop just there! For the wedding day, we recommend a welcome bar with chilled (nonalcoholic!) beverages; for outdoor weddings a sunscreen/bug repellant station; market umbrellas shading the ceremony area, fans (maybe imprinted with the ceremony program), personalized paper parasols doubling as a wedding keepsake; amenities baskets in the bathrooms, simple “pashmina” shawls or blankets for outdoors celebrations and a basket of flip-flops for beach weddings and long dance parties.

9. Your youngest guests

Let’s admit it: weddings are not for kids. Take that from a mother! The excitement about the decorations and the big white dress is wearing off after a maximum of ten minutes, and then kids want to do what kids always want to do: explore, play, do their own thing. Make sure that they get to do exactly that and have just as much fun during that wedding as their parents – just a different type of fun: their own area, their own babysitter(s) and their own activities. Activity bags, maybe even a kids’ entertainment company or a “sleepover party” with cartoon movies and pizza. Everybody’s happy!

10. Your Doggie

Well, same thing with dogs. Weddings are just not the thing for them. Just imagine: they are brought to a new, exciting, and maybe upsetting environment full of strangers, their “parents” don’t have time for them, they are expected to be quiet instead of inspecting and, yes, marking the new territory; regular walk/nap/meal times are all out the window AND they are even not supposed to bark! That doesn’t sound right to me. And yes, you guessed it, I am a dedicated doggie Mom. At A Day Like No Other, we offer a “VIC” (Very Important Canine) package – a dedicated dog handler on wedding day whose main task is keeping doggie happy, walking and feeding her, playing with her and chauffeuring her home as needed. But even if none of that is in the cards – you should plan for your dog’s well-being on their Great Day as you would for any other family member or guest. At the very least, designate a person not directly involved in the wedding for doggie care (the Maid of Honor is not a good choice, as she will be busy during the ceremony and during photo time…). It should not be a young child or a person unaccustomed to dogs. It should be someone who is willing to sacrifice part of the celebration time for this purpose, and gladly so. Provide an area where your darling can safely stay, protected, in the shade, and maybe in her familiar crate. Do bring her familiar food, treats, and toys. And should your fur baby get upset, your doggie babysitter can drive her home for a short while until her newlywed parents arrive – and the canine world order is happily restored!

Published on Honeyfund Blog, 6/26/16

Wendy and Jason: an Elegant Summer Wedding at Kohl Mansion

Posted on June 25, 2016 by jlammerts

Wendy and Jason are two super-busy young physicians – with absolutely no time to spare. Planning their wedding was something they were so much looking forward to, but that was definitely posing a challenge. So much to do – and where to start? I am so happy they chose my company, A Day Like No Other, to help them plan their Great Day. We had a little over six months, and we had a lot of work to do in that time – and finally today the Great Day had come, and everything was coming together beautifully.

For Wendy and her bridesmaids, the day began with a beauty session at Wowpretty Salon – and they all emerged looking like Hollywood royalty!

City Express Limousine service took them directly to their venue, historic Kohl Mansion in Burlingame, stately amidst its own mature park – and under blue skies, a summery-hot sun and slight breeze. In short, simply perfect!

Here is Wendy’s elegant ivory lace wedding dress…

worn with a dramatic cathedral-length veil…

… and veritable “princess slippers!:

Not to forget, of course, her dreamy all-white bouquet by Green Petal Designs:

Groom Jason was likewise dressing up together with his groomsmen:

… while photographer Mae Stier was snapping away and videographer Kien Nguyen joined her in recording every precious moment.

Meanwhile, the venue staff had set up the ceremony chairs out on the lawn under towering ancient trees, Toast Catering was busy in the kitchen and setting up bars and dining tables …

… in elegant hunter green, ivory and gold and a matching sweetheart table presiding over the double-height dining room…

… florist Janelle Jacky-Litt of Green Petal Designs set out centerpieces (potted Phalaenopsis orchids which one guest at each table would win as a special favor), ceremony decor and many more beautiful arrangements…

and my two fabulous assistants Angeliki Menig and Haneen Saideh were arranging escort cards (hand-calligraphed by A Day Like No Other) …

and guest book table …

… and so much more. DJ Nick Conforti of Sound in Motion installed all we needed for ceremony, cocktail hour and dining, and Satura Cakes and Mr. & Mrs. Miscellaneous contributed wedding cake and ice cream bar, respectively.

Guests were greeted in the driveway by… bride and groom, dancing in the breeze! (Wendy and Jason do have a great sense of humor – you can tell!)

But then things got serious – seriously elegant, that is…

Outside on the ceremony lawn, refreshments were ready for the guests – a welcome treat at 81 degrees!

Ready for the long-anticipated moment: here comes the bride!

Wendy was unstoppable on her walk down the aisle, even as her veil caught the breeze, got stuck briefly and tried to hold her back!

The ceremony was officiated by a longtime friend of the couple’s and was lighthearted, brief and very, very personal.

Just married! Time for more photos, cocktails – and the whole glorious party that’s going to ensue!

Time for portraits – Kohl Mansion offers a lot of beautiful backdrops for that!

After dinner – there was OF COURSE more to come… first off, cake cutting, but “ice-cream feeding!” Ice cream aficionados Wendy and Jason did feed one another, but with a tweak on tradition:

And then: their Grand Entrance as “Mr. and Mrs.”…

… followed by an epic dance party!

And here is the day – in live action, courtesy of Kien Pictures…

Wendy & Jason Wedding – Highlight – Kohl Mansion from Kien Pictures on Vimeo.

Many happy years together, Wendy and Jason! Keep celebrating!

Nancy and James’ Epic Fall Wedding – Luxury, Elegance and FUN!

Posted on June 21, 2016 by jlammerts

When Nancy and James – partners in life and in profession – were ready to tie the knot, they were, as usual, in agreement about pretty much everything.