So, tell me what you want...what you really, really want.

As this blog evolves, I want to make sure that we are covering topics that interest you.  I am excited to announce that we will soon have monthly guest posts by some of my favorite, rock-star, event cohorts.  You will love what they have to add to our discussions on all of life's festivities. 

If there is a party topic, in particular, that you would like more info about, give me a SHOUT (or comment actually).  I want to hear from you. 

-Lori

Is a chair just a chair?

Have you ever put much thought into a chair? One may think that a chair is simply a functional piece of event furniture. I, however, know that a chair can be a dramatic design element at your event.

**Disclaimer -EVERYTHING in an event is a function of the BUDGET.**

Event professionals will be glad to help you prioritize your spending to get the biggest bang for your buck, and accomplish the aesthetic that you desire.


Let’s start on the low end of the spectrum.

The classic plastic folding chair

We can all agree that these old faithfuls have their place. A casual, outdoor shindig is the perfect spot. You would pair these with basic linens for a simple look.

Next, we progress up the range.

The wooden garden chair

While these are still very reasonably priced, they have a nice solid look and feel to them. They work great for a garden party or tented event. They make perfect outdoor ceremony chairs. While still somewhat casual, these chairs can begin to upgrade the décor of your event.

Let’s move onto a more upscale option...the ballroom chair.

Chiavaris

Chateaus

These beauties can add some drama to your décor. Offered in ranges of shiny metallics to deep wood tones, these chairs become a real focal point at your tables. No sophisticated affair would be complete without a ballroom chair. With the addition of a chair pad, chair cap, or sash, the custom options with these chairs are endless.

At the top of the scale are some exclusive, statement chairs.

Ghost

Chameleon

These are somewhat difficult to find in small markets, but can always be trucked in from more metro areas. These add that “over-the-top” look to any event.  I am chomping at the bit to bring that rouched-back model into town.  Any takers? 

Chairs can be as important as linens, florals, and other decor.  Be sure to allocate your budget accordingly so that you do not compromise the overall vibe of your event.

Next time you enter a large event, see what the chairs are telling you.  It may surprise you!

Happy sitting,

Lori

Little teaser...Lucy McCulloch Semple's spectacular wedding reception

I have been chomping at the bit to share some of the scrumptiousness of Lucy McCulloch Semple's wedding extravaganza.  Amy Hannon of Sincerely Yours had the privilege of being a guest at the wedding and snapped a couple of teaser shots for us.  Once the photographer has worked their magic, we will post more.  Enjoy!

Guest tables covered in beige dupioni silk table linens accented with celadon lamour napkins. 

Ga. Ga.

One of the floral designs on the guest tables surrounded by fabulous mahogany chateau chairs. 

Heavenly.

Cake table covered in a puckered silk taffeta. 

Lucious.

Major props to the entire team:
Festivities
J. Bailey Occasions
Sincerely Yours
Distinctive Designs by Tanarah
Shelby Lynn's Cake Shoppe

Here Comes the Bride 2010...Whimsical twist on fall reception decor

Call me crazy, but I LOVE bridal fairs.  They are the time when the creative juices can flow freely.  The sky is the limit.  This show Festivities paired up with the fantabulous Signed, Sealed, Delivered crew for a whimsical twist on fall reception decor at the annual Here Comes the Bride Bridal Experience.  Anyone else tired of the long "head table"?  Check out our unique twist...a couple's table flanked by two sepentines attached to two larger rounds for the bridal party.  I'm thinking this is a winner.  Bye bye Mister Head Table.  It's been nice knowin' ya!

When you pair a rustic centerpiece (compliments of SSD) with burlap, moss shimmer crush, cranberry lamour, and great tabletop accents, what do you get?  Scrumptiousness.  Is is fall yet?  There were even custom placecard holders for George Clooney and the likes thanks to SSD!

This couple's table is my favorite yet.  The flocked taffeta linen was TO. DIE. FOR.  I loved the custom place card holders from SSD and the moss covered container for the florals.  Can you say PERFECT?

I love ceiling treatments.  I saw some inspiration on the web and the gals at Signed, Sealed, Delivered translated it perfectly.  It created the perfect chandelier for our couple.  Love is in the air.  Literally!

The giant urns connecting our head table added major drama.  They towered around 10' tall.  The layered look of the linens created a touch of elegance.  Texture and color were key to this overall design.

The Festivities' bunch would love to help you come up with your one-of-a-kind reception design.  Call them today to set up your very own VIBEconsult at 479.750-8981.  They have everything you need to pull off your dream look.  The talented team at Signed, Sealed, Delivered can add lots of exciting touches from paper to florals.  Check them out too.

I know that Spring is springing...but Fall will follow.  Enjoy the view!

Lori Bova

Under the Big Top

Who hasn't seen a big white tent set up around town and wondered what festive event was going on inside?  A tent can add great WOW factor to any outdoor event.  Festivities offers a variety of tent styles, perfect for any look.  Call the pros to ask what will work best for your next soiree or shindig.

A frame tent is designed for installation on concrete, asphalt, or grass.  They have poles on each corner, but the canopy is supported by a suspended center pole.  This gives you full use of the space under the tent.  They tend to have a little more casual feel and have limitations on ceiling decor.  Several can be grouped together to create a larger tent.  Standard sizes are 10'x10' and 20'x20'.

A clearspan tent is another frame style tent, but has the ability to create a large seamless structure.  This tent utilizes a track system where the canopy is actually fed into the frame section by section.  It has a slightly arched roofline and side poles every 10'.  You have complete use of the interior as there are no center poles.  Interior decor can include draped fabric, lighting, lanterns, chandelier...the sky is really the limit.

A pole tent is what most think of as a "circus" tent.  However, the pole tents of today are a far cry from the big red and white striped jobs!  These tents must be staked into the ground as the guy lines create tension for the high peaked canopy.  The interior does contain center poles, but, is (by far) the most dramatic.  The huge center poles draw the eye up to the massive sweeping roof.  There are numerous decor options with this style.

Fabric can be used to create a soft look.

Lanterns can add a fun touch.  Lighting can add some drama.

Tents are not all created equal.  There are vast differences in quality and consequently in price. 

Here are a few tips before you rent a tent:

Use a reputable company.

Contact a full-service company that can provide all of your rental items.

Be sure to compare apples to apples when shopping around.

Ask to see photos of the company's work.

Schedule a site visit to ensure that the size and style tent will work in your space.

Discuss Plan "B" as weather can impact any outdoor event.

When considering venue options, don't forget the "big top"!  You will be the talk of the town.

-Lori