VIVIENNE & MICHAEL:
BEAUTY + ENTERTAINMENT = ONE GLORIOUS WEDDING

As a Planner, it's inevitable to grow close to your clients and have them leave a lasting impression on both your career and your life. But it's not often that you have a couple that are so genuinely happy and fun that you can't help but leave their presence...well, happy! Vivienne was one of those Brides whose personality was so darling that you would literally want to squish her. And Michael, her Groom, was equally fabulous with an amazing sense of humour, a charming personality and an incredible desire to make their wedding everything that Vivenne dreamed of and that their guests would never forget.

From stunning decor, an incredible cake and Samba dancers to a surprise 'Glee' performance from an acapella group for the Bride this wedding left no stone unturned in terms of beauty and entertainment. Yet more importantly, the love between Vivienne and Michael couldn't have been more evident and pronounced, leaving everyone in their presence glowing.

Here's a sneak peak of their wedding day provided by the fabulous Konrad at FreshSox (and somehow This Planner wound up in it!)

Vivienne + Michael SDE | Timothy Eaton Church Wedding | Toronto from Freshsox on Vimeo.

JAMES FRODYMA WEDDING FILMS
'REELS' IN THE TOP 4 TIPS FOR
A UNIQUE VIDEO EXPERIENCE

Much like what photography offers, videography for a wedding or event provides the host opportunities to relive their special day again and again and again. However gone are the days of cheesy video effects and basic step by step accounts and in their place are documentary style wonders that view like a music video. Emotional. Brilliantly captured. Real.

Toronto-based James Frodyma Wedding Films came into event film making after five years of previous experience directing documentaries, television commercials and numerous short films. Coming from a background outside of event film-making allows for a unique approach to both filming and editing your personal story. Here Frodyma shares his top 4 tips to obtaining that unique approach.

1. OPEN UP TO YOUR CINEMATOGRAPHER

One of the first things that Frodyma does as a cinematographer is meet with the clients over lunch or coffee to have a conversation about everything from where they grew up, how a couple met to where the clients see their life going after the wedding or event.

"While one of the best parts of this job is often befriending your couples" James Frodyma says, "the main motivation for us to get together is for me to really get to know them and hear their story".

Opening the chapters of your life and personality gives the cinematographer an opportunity to build a profile of what kind of client he will be shooting for. Are the clients adventurous or are they more low key? do they love the spotlight or prefer a more subtle approach? Each of these pieces of information gives the cinematographer clues as to how to approach the wedding or event and what style of shooting and editing best matches their personality. Building a strong profile is the first step to creating a film that is unique to the client and visually stunning.

2. A DOCUMENTARY APPROACH WILL HAVE YOU LOOKING YOUR BEST

Filming a wedding or event from a documentary approach means that the day is filmed as it happens and the cinematographer lets things happen in front of the camera organically.

"I don't try to interfere or try to manufacture emotions on your day" Frodyma explains, "I'm simply there to document real events and real emotions as they happen".

With the exception of specially allocated time (for example formal wedding photo sessions), documentary style shooting 'from a distance' has its benefits. The documentary style cinematographer makes sure that from the moment they hit record, the clients aren't even aware that they are being filmed. This is the best way to ensure that the client is relaxed and more natural, which will always look better on camera. It removes the pressure of having a camera in your face.

"And, well, the footage and end product speaks for itself" Frodyma says.

Kevin + April, a day to remember from james frodyma on Vimeo.

3. WITH REGARDS TO WEDDINGS, ALLOCATE SOME ONE-ON-ONE TIME WITH YOUR CINEMATOGRAPHER

One of the most underutilized times during a wedding day is the photo shoot session where the photographer normally takes charge. Most cinematographers simply shoot some "behind the scenes" footage of your photographer leading the session. But taking advantage of your cinematographers' presence on-site will provide an opportunity for him or her to shoot something that will really WOW people.

"I recently shot a wedding for a couple that were interested in doing something special and we came up with the idea of a bridal reveal to her groom before the ceremony," says Frodyma, "We took some time to plan out a route where the Bride would walk to meet her Groom for the first time. This was an idea specifically meant for their wedding film and we were able to set up and execute a beautiful scene where the couple met for the first time".

Meeting with and talking to your cinematographer about your own personal ideas and desires for your wedding memories will create a unique and memorable scene for your wedding film.



4. LET YOUR CINEMATOGRAPHER KNOW OF YOUR PLANS!

Nothing can sabotage your wedding film faster than poor planning. It's important that whomever is documenting your wedding or event -- whether its a cinematographer or photographer -- has a clear idea of what is coming up next. This is even more crucial during a reception when it comes to filming. An appointed person -- whether it be a family member, person within your wedding party, the MC or ahem, the wedding/event planner -- should be informing the cinematographer a few minutes before any specific event takes place in the reception. This is because the cinematographer will need time to get into position to ensure that they are ready to roll. For cinematographers this includes time to turn on their microphones, recording devices and setting up their cameras to catch the event from multiple angles.

With no notice, there's a risk of catching your cinematographer flat footed and having them missing a crucial part of your event. It's not worth the risk especially when you consider how easy it can be to keep them in the loop. A clear, precise itinerary coupled with a point person ensures that no moments are missed.


Sharing your personal stories with your cinematographer, keeping them appraised of your plans and giving them the time and opportunity to get creative will allow for your cinematographer to capture compelling story lines and offer you a film that's as unique as your memories.


ABOUT JAMES FRODYMA WEDDING FILMS:


As an event film maker with years of previous experience directing documentaries, television commercials and numerous short films, James Frodyma Wedding Films comes equipped with a small team of dedicated filmmakers with strong technical and creative backgrounds. Using the latest in technology, their style focuses around documentary film-making which allows the to catch those special moments in an unobtrusive way. Every feeling, every emotion is caught naturally as their cameras blend into the background. Attention to detail, vivid imagery and compelling story lines are what they strive to accomplish in each of their films. Thriving on the joy they have brought to their clients in the past, James Frodyma Wedding Films look forward to bringing you that same joy. www.jamesfrodyma.com

SEEKING AIMEE (ATELIER AIMEE THAT IS)

All images from Atelier Aimee

As you know by now, when it comes to weddings, This Planner is head over heels for gowns that are unique and defy traditional styling. Enter Atelier Aimee Montenapoleone -- the haute couture wedding designer from Italy who has been creating works of art for Brides across the globe since 1961.

From uber romantic (think delicate French lace and fresh shoots of roses) to the oddest of concepts, Atelier Aimee can be found in boutiques from Milan to New York and as far away as Tokyo.

Question is, are you daring enough to seek out Aimee for your wedding day?

ET LOFTE LOVES!!!

ET LOFTE LOVES!!!

ET LOFTE LOVES!!!

UNDERSTANDING THE ROLE
OF THE CHARGER

Tabletop by Designing Trendz

Recently This Planner was discussing table decor with a client and when I suggested having Chargers on the table he raised his eyebrows.

"What are those for?" he asked, "to make the table pretty?"

Well yes and no.

Charger plates have enjoyed quite a boom in use over the last decade. While in the past Chargers could have been viewed as "luxury" decorative elements for tabletops, over the past decade Chargers can be seen on tabletops at every type of event from weddings to in-home parties.

But while Chargers have increased in popularity, many hosts don't have a thorough understanding of just what the role of the Charger is. Yes, it looks quite pretty on the table. But it does have a purpose other than being decorative and there is etiquette involved.

Chargers (their name is derived from the French word "chargeour" which means 'to load') serve two main purposes. One purpose is dress up a formal tabletop by adding colour and texture. Chargers should always match your colour scheme and/or your event's overall theme. Chargers come in a wide variety of colours and materials from plastic, wood and bamboo to glass, metal and mirror. This leaves endless possibilities when it comes to tying in your Chargers with your theme.

The other purpose of Chargers is to catch spills or food residue. The first few courses preceding the main course rest on top of the chargers and serve as an under-plate, catching anything that may fall. More often than not, if you use a Charger those fancy-dancy linens will stay quite clean!

The etiquette regarding chargers? Well first of all, you don't eat off of them! No food should ever touch the charger! Chargers should be set approximately one inch from the edge of the table between your silverware and should already be on the tables when guests arrive. While it's not appropriate to have food directly on the Charger, it is perfectly acceptable to rest your folded napkins on its surface.

Etiquette is also in place with regards to the removal of chargers. Technically, historical etiquette states that the Chargers should be removed from the tables before the Main Course. Nowadays however, hosts choose to keep the Charger in place for the Main Course and all courses prior. This modern practice is viewed as acceptable however modern etiquette states that the Charger should then be removed prior to dessert.

Charger plates add that extra oomph! to any event decor and with that added style comes an understated, humble practicality. Some of This Planner's faves?

Photo from Johnathan Adler



Photo courtesy of OMG DIY Wedding

Photo from Overstock.com

DELANEY & CANDIDO:
TAKING THE 'TYPICAL' OUT OF 'WEDDING'

Photos by Stephen Elms Photography

When I first sat down with Delaney and Candido, the Portuguese couple were adamant about one thing. They wanted a unique experience for their guests. Delaney, who works at The Hospital for Sick Children and Candido, a police officer, wanted to align their food with Portuguese tradition -- lots of food coupled with a seafood buffet. And so they had chosen Europa Convention Centre's downtown location in 'Little Portugal' as their venue. But making their food a priority brought on one big challenge for the couple.

It was a venue that hosted a lot of Portuguese weddings and the couple wanted anything but a "typical Portuguese wedding".

And so This Planner designed a wedding for Delaney and Candido that would not only set their wedding apart from what their guests would be anticipating but that also was child-friendly and reflected the couple's personalities: Delaney -- fun loving, passionate about children and obsessed with shoes, and Candido -- a laid back police officer with tongue-in-cheek humour. And both shared a love for espresso.

For the wedding day, the Bride donned a Jim Helm French Lace gown and cathedral length veil (changing later to a fabulous lime fascinator for the reception) and green pumps. Her son Nathan, also the Ring Bearer, let his personality shine with green Converse sneakers. The Groom channeled 'suave' in his Harry Rosen suit yet kept things light-hearted with his accessories.

The ceremony was held at St. Agnes Church in Little Portugal. Guests were given bubbles to float as the Bride and Groom walked the aisle.




For the reception, the colours of lime green and purple were evident and vibrant in everything from the centerpieces to the linens. Choosing to mix things up a bit structurally with alternating round and square tables, we had the centerpieces alternate as well -- one made up of curly willow, florals and crystals and the other made up of bamboo, florals and teardrop candles -- to keep the guests' visuals enticed. And enticed they were -- Sherwin from Petals and Twigs put his creativity to task in creating the stunning floral designs.




Keeping in mind Candido's profession as a police officer and Delaney's sense of humour, we created a guestbook out of actual speeding tickets for the guests to write. The Seating Arrangements were showcased on Firing Range Target designed by Koket Designs. And their blend of personalities were displayed atop their card box.


For the guests' favours, the couple gave away espresso beans by Barzula for the adults and an assortment of goodies for the many children that were present. The aroma of the espresso paired nicely with the aroma of the sliced mango and vanilla wedding cake designed by Andy's Wedding Cakes.


Then there were the interactive elements. We wanted to tap into Delaney's playful side and love for children, but also to keep guests entertained throughout the evening. A throw-back to our own childhood, Cootie-catchers with trivia about the couple rested on tabletops. Brad from Skip A Beat Entertainment kept guests guessing with a "Who Wants to Be A Millionaire" Kissing Game (not to mention crowding the dance floor later in the evening) and Bobby Motta from Motta Magic roamed the cocktail hour flabergasting guests with his illusions. Later in the evening, the backdrop behind the Head Table drew back to reveal Motta Magic, returning for a full parlour show.





Guests entering the banquet room were overheard gushing about the vibrant and stunning visuals, personalized detail and entertaining aspects... giving Delaney and Candido exactly what they wanted: a unique experience for their guests setting them apart from "a typical wedding".








PARTICIPATING VENDORS:

Concept Design & Planning: Et Lofte Events

Venue: Europa Convention Centre downtown location)

Photographer: Stephen Elms Photography

Florals/Decor: Petals and Twigs

Linens: Around the Table

Tables: Chairman Mills

Chivari Chairs: Chair Decor

DJ: Skip a Beat Entertainment

Illusionist: Motta Magic

Wedding Cake: Andys Wedding Cakes

THE THREE E's TO PLANNING
ANY SUCCESSFUL EVENT

Photo by daveandcharlotte photography

Whether it's a Wedding, Birthday Bash, Anniversary Party or any social event, there are three extremely important factors in planning that should never be overlooked or taken lightly. There's an old saying that goes "You never want a 'But' event". What this means is that you don't want an event after which your guests say "The [said event] was beautiful BUT...". The three E's to planning any successful event are easy to remember and will save you from that dreaded "BUT" event.

NUMBER ONE: THE EDIBLES



The food and beverages served at your event should be of the highest priority in your planning. Guests always arrive at an event anticipating great food. Think of the last time you arrived at an event. What was your first thought about the event before arriving (Ok, Ok, aside from whether or not you were looking fabulous)? It was likely something along the lines of "I wonder what kind of food they'll be serving" or, if you haven't eaten all day, "there had better be food!".

So now imagine walking into the said event and there was very little food offered. Or the food that was offered tasted bland, dry or...gasp!...unusual. Ruined your whole evening didn't it?

Your 'EDIBLES' should be presentable, tasty, creative and most importantly, there should be enough to go around! The same can be said for your beverages. Ensure that the quantity and quality is there. That wine being served with dinner should be paired correctly and of proper quality. Consider a minimum of 3 drinks per person for the average social party and much higher consumption for larger events such as weddings. For cocktail receptions, match your beverage choices to the theme and the food that is being passed.

Food and Beverage at your event is the most important element to any event. Give it the attention it warrants and budget accordingly.


NUMBER TWO: THE ENTERTAINMENT

Photo from vibeless.com

There's nothing worse than an empty dance floor.

Or a boring event for that matter.

Contrary to popular belief, there are many mistakes that the host can make when selecting the entertainment for their event. It's not as simple as booking just any DJ, Band or Performer -- there are many factors to consider.

One factor is your guest majority or 'audience'. Are they mostly low-key kind of folk or are they party animals? Do they want to be "entertained" or would they rather be left alone to dance (whether they can or can't dance is irrelevant)? Are there children present (is it all children?) or is the event adults-only ? Recognizing who your guest majority is will help to determine the entertainment that will best...well...entertain them!

Also consider the style of the event. Is it black-tie? A casual affair? A wedding in a barn? This will play an important role in choosing your style of entertainment whether you've chosen a band, a DJ or any other entertainment.

And trust your professionals! Try to not burden your DJ or Band with an extensive "Must Play" list. While your super-lengthy list may be comprised of songs that you think are ah-mazing, your guests may think otherwise. The same can be said for extensive "Do Not Play" lists. While you may despise country, a large portion of your guests may love it. Your entertainment professional may be bogged down with requests for country yet he has to turn away disappointed party dwellers because you said so. A talented and experienced entertainment professional can gage his or her audience and keep your dance floor crowded and your guests entertained. A small list of "Do Not Plays" are perfectly fine. Handing your entertainment professional a manual, is not.

Yes, it's your event. Heck, it may be an event in your honour. But as the host of any event, at some point the event stops being all about you and becomes all about your guests.

In a nutshell, whatever entertainment professional you've chosen was selected out of dozens for a reason. That said, let the entertainment professional do their job and provide guidance if you truly want to...just let it be minimal guidance. After all, there's a reason you're not behind that spin table or up on that stage...right?


NUMBER THREE: THE ETIQUETTE

Photo from Love Amour Love

This Planner has always been a big fan of breaking the rules when it comes to planning events. However, as much of a rebel as I am, there are certain areas in event planning where I feel that the rules shouldn't be broken. 'ETIQUETTE' is one of those areas.

Etiquette exists for a reason. It shows respect. Period. And so when planning any event, etiquette should be kept at the forefront of your mind. Rather than be worried that you'll appear 'stuffy' or 'pretentious' by following proper etiquette, worry more about coming across as 'rude' or 'disrespectful'.

Now, when I refer to etiquette I'm not necessarily talking about where to place your cutlery on a table. I'm more zero'd in on etiquette that directly relates to your guests. For example, NEVER be late for your own event. For some reason, some guests of honour, Bride and Grooms, etc. have this unbelievable idea that "the party can't start without me and it's 'my day' so let them wait".

Pardon me?

Your guests don't care that you couldn't decide on what to wear, that you had to stop to pick up pantyhose or that you want more wedding photos in addition to what was originally scheduled. What your guests DO care about is that they're tired of standing around waiting for you, they're starving and their night has seriously begun to drag on and on. If your party is set to start at a certain time, it had better start at that time unless there's something beyond your control to prevent it from starting on time.

Another enormous etiquette blunder? Never expect your guests to pay for their own beverages -- alcoholic or otherwise. If you hosted a gathering at your home would you charge your guests for the drinks they consumed? Absolutely not! So why then, would it be alright to charge your guests for their beverages merely because the party has moved from your home to a more commercial establishment? Your guests are your personal guests, they're not customers.

Oh and in case you were thinking 'loonie/twoonie' bars, drink tickets, etc were a better option than 'cash bars'....really? This is a hosted function, not a carnival. Think again.

Always keep in mind that etiquette is a form of respect for your guests. Follow etiquette and you'll never have disgruntled guests. Ignore it and you may have guests that won't feel disrespected but you may have guests that do. And that can ruin any event at any time, whether the event just started or it's towards its end. It's not worth the risk.



So there you have it! Following the three 'E's above will not only ensure that you have a hugely successful event but takes the guess-work out of whether or not your event will be a crowd pleaser.

When in doubt, just remember this: if your edibles are lacking, the entertainment downright sucks and you've made your guests wait over an hour to begin dinner because you chose to be late...THAT is what your guests will remember of your event. Not what your centerpieces looked like.


CHEERS!