THREE THINGS I'M LOVIN'
RIGHT NOW

Photo from The Fantecee Blog

Another wedding season ends and another event planning season begins. Here are just a few of the concepts and items of which I'm stoked that my clients are taking advantage of right now.

RAW, UNPOLISHED SPACES
AND UNBELIEVABLE TRANSFORMATIONS

Photo from Artscape

I absolutely love that clients are thinking outside the lavish ballroom and choosing raw, unpolished spaces in which to work their event magic. Whether it's a heritage building with exposed brick, an empty warehouse space or barns and hangers, these empty slates provide a wealth of opportunity for any theme from lavish to eclectic to off-beat.

Photo from The Burroughs

I'm also loving that clients who have chosen a typical banquet hall for their function aren't taking what's offered lying down. What I mean is that they aren't accepting the banquet room at face value but instead are choosing to transform the room into a sweet, non-traditional space through various elements including uplighting, projections, draping, linen choices and more. For example, a client of Et Lofte Events is opting for the street-haute look for their fete with grafitti projected on the walls and rustic linens combined with every day street items incorporated into their decor (think bicycle wheels, chapboards and blown out umbrellas)!

UNEXPECTED FOOD CHOICES

There's something to be said for choosing to dine off the beaten path. I'm stoked that wedding clients are choosing cultural food that is completely opposite of their ethnic background. I'm talking about a Polish couple choosing Thai for their menu or Indian cuisine showcased at an Asian couple's wedding. I'm also stoked to see totally unusual food themes like "fast food restaurant" inspired stations.

I'm also lovin' that clients are offering food stations that have fun, interactive elements such as stack-it-yourself poutine stations that offering a wide variety of toppings rather than just your standard cheese curds and gravy, ice-cream sandwich stations with a variety of ice-cream flavours or passed popcorn in a variety of flavours including curry.

Photo from The Wedding Wardrobist

SURPRISE ENTERTAINMENT FOR WEDDINGS AND CELEBRATIONS

Photo from WardrobeAdvice.com

DJs and bands will forever be staples of weddings and celebrations. And I'm always fond of having your entertainment options match your theme for continuity. But I'm also over-the-moon with the idea of surprise entertainment -- meaning having an element of entertainment that is completely off-kilter from your theme or out of a wedding couple's comfort zone. Just how off-kilter do I mean? I'm speaking of hip hop instructors teaching wedding guests some funky dance moves, fortune tellers offering advice for the future during cocktails, a scavenger hunt challenge or live glass blowers during dinner. The possibilities are endless!

HALLOWEEN PARTY THEMES
THAT ARE JUST SO

There are two holidays each year that bring out the kid in all of us -- and Halloween is one of them. I mean, what's not to love? Loads of candy, dressing up, a good fright, loads of candy...did I mention loads of candy???

But our Halloween fetes don't have to be traditional. They don't have to be that same old haunted house decorated in orange and black with jack-o-lanterns in every crook and cranny and skeletons hanging from the doorways. Oh no. Halloween begs for creativity and so this Halloween, hop on your broomstick and fly in another direction. From the posh soiree or the cute child-like carousal to the utmost creepy affair, give your guests a real treat -- a Halloween party they won't be expecting.


TIM BURTON'S ALICE IN WONDERLAND

Tim Burton is a genius at making anything dark. And while Alice in Wonderland has been a theme for everything from weddings to tea parties, why not extend it's quirky, dark capability to Halloween? Warped clocks, mismatched tabletops and one (in my opinion) creepy looking Mad Hatter all lend themselves to endless possibilities with this theme. Take a twist on the Eat Me, Drink Me tags for edible goodies and add a darker message. Turn that cute white rabbit into a matted, rabid animal. Challenge your guests to dress up like their favourite character -- Tim Burton style. However you choose to do it, Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland is a unique theme to an old tradition.

Tim Burton Alice in Wonderland by et_lofte_events

CIRQUE DU...FREAK

We all know how visually stunning Cirque du Soleil can be. In fact, it's my dream theme for any event. But taking a darker stab at a happy, child-like theme like the circus and twisting the knife to make it dark and creepy will give you that Halloween party with a certain je ne sais quoi. Evil lion tamers, scary clowns, faceless showgirls, creepy puppets, rabid animals, popcorn containers filled with red-tinted popcorn...there's nothing scarier than turning a childish fantasy into a nightmare.

Cirque du freak theme (Halloween) by et_lofte_events

ALFRED HITCHCOCK BIRDS

Alfred Hitchcock was a literal film making genius. Why not pay him homage with a Halloween tribute party to one of his most famous films, Birds? Easy to do and a vast land of possibilities, this party falls into the Halloween spirit but without going overly spooky. Scatter endless fake crows about the room and sitting on vintage home accents like old clocks, mirrors, telephones, bird cages, etc. Strategically place black feathers in everything from door wreaths to napkin rings. Have the famous black and white movie projected silently on a blank wall in the room.

Alfred Hitchcock Birds by et_lofte_events

DON'T BE PETRIFIED OF POSH PURPLE & BLACK

Who says that Halloween has to be scary? Or orange and black for that matter? Take a more sophisticated approach to Halloween by pairing purple with black for everything from linens and napkins to decorative accents. Paint miniature pumpkins purple and scatter them along a black tabletop among the occasional black crow sporting a thin purple ribbon bow. Attach purple glitter-covered spiders to napkin rings and hang them from chandeliers. Adorn your front door with a purple and black feather wreath. Serve purple and black cupcakes and purple martinis. Or to spice things up a bit, throw in a hint of lime green. While being petrified is the main theme of Halloween there's no rule that says it can't be posh too.

Purple and black Halloween theme by et_lofte_events

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