Element of Surprise

Last night at midnight, Beyonce released her brand new album. It's not just the amazing music that makes this a cool announcement, but the way she did it: surprise!!

No one saw it coming, and then boom, brand new album from one of the world's best performers. Today, the social media world is buzzing with how great the music is, and how crazy cool it was to be a surprise.

The element of surprise is something we see in the planning world. From a surprise proposal to a surprise party and surprise performances, everyone loves a surprise. A surprise is a great way to show someone that you think of them all of the time. A well thought out and surprising proposal tells your other half that you want to make them happy and take the time to think about what exactly will do that.

We love surprise performances at parties as well. Often, we find that our clients want to share the planning process with their friends and family. However, we like to keep guests on their toes and we think the guests of honor should do the same. A great way to really thank guests for coming to your party is to surprise them with a performance: singing, dancing, live music, acrobatics, whatever you can think of! The best part of a performance is to never announce it. Don't tell anyone but each other and then watch how excited your guests are.

This past summer we had the honor of witnessing a bride and groom be surprised by their family. The bride's sisters put together a music video that was creative and hilarious. It was so much fun to see all of the work that the family put into the video, but not as much fun as watching the faces of the bride and groom. They had no idea it was coming, and all eyes darted from the movie to them. 

We're happy to work hand in hand with our clients to surprise their guests or each other. The best part of having a planner on board is that you always have someone you can talk to when you just cannot keep your mouth shut. Not only will we help you surprise someone, but we can keep a secret.

What is the biggest surprise you ever saw at a party? Are you planning one right now? Share in the comments below!

Oh, and we might have a surprise coming on Monday, so be sure to check back on our facebook page for that!

It's a Nice Day for a.....Barn Wedding

It's a hot new trend and it is here to stay: barn/farm weddings. We are approached by many couples looking for that rustic feel and barn atmosphere for their big day. From cowboy boots to mason jars and wildflowers, a barn venue is the ultimate is rustic chic.

The barn pictured at right (photo by Quincy Adam Photography) is a beautiful venue that we are currently planning an August 2014 wedding at. Finding this venue was no small task, so I thought I could write up a little blog regarding the tricky-ness (is that even a word) of securing that perfect barn venue for your wedding day.

First of all, many barns are small. They're barns. It's not that easy to find a barn that can accommodate a 150 person or more guest list, and the average guest count for a New Jersey wedding sits around 180 people. Spacing becomes an issue once you request a sit down dinner and a dance floor. If you add a band, that's even more space being cut into, and don't forget that your cocktail hour will probably be in the same space, so no "surprise, look how pretty my reception room looks!".

Another issue is that the temperature outside, is also the temperature inside. Many barns do not have air conditioning and even less have heating. Of course, air conditioning can be brought in, but you have now added an extra expense.

Speaking of extra, keep in mind that many of these venues are just a barn. That's it. No catering, no alcohol, no tables, linens or chairs. You might be responsible for the rental of all of these items, the delivery of same, the return of same and so forth. If you truly love a blank canvas, then this is something that is welcome, but it will keep the price high.

If you really love to party, we recommend finding an "after party" location as well since many barn properties turn off the music anywhere between 9 and 10pm. This can be a buzz kill for many couples, but with proper planning, an after party for those interested can be easily arranged. 

Truth be told, I love a barn wedding. I find the atmosphere is more interesting than a typical banquet hall, and who doesn't like "something different"? But there are challenges, and while we recommend a wedding planner (duh) in every instance, this is one of those instances that you would have a hard time staying above water without one. We know the tricks to make it easy and can find you that perfect barn that you are looking for. Plus, we'll handle all of the rentals (bathrooms included) so that you can just show up and get married. 

One thing that should be said though: these are the expensive weddings. Barns require a lot of work and will be pricier than your average banquet hall. If you're looking at a barn or a farm to keep costs down, then you're barking up the wrong tree. In the New Jersey area, it is difficult to keep venue costs under $30,000 for a barn wedding and that's just for the venue and food; not the rentals, alcohol or any of the other basic necessities. Just like the "natural" look takes more time and effort than the fully made up face complete with a smoky eye, a barn wedding takes more money and work than the halls surrounding you. 

I hope I have given you some insight into planning the perfect barn wedding. Please feel free to leave your comments and questions below!

R.S.V.P.....lost in translation?

Répondez, s'il vous plaît....maybe we should be writing this in English instead? Is that where everything falls apart?

There has not been a single wedding or event that I have thrown where I haven't had to chase down invited guests to find out if they planned to attend or not. And, if they were attending, were they flying solo or bringing a guest? Oh, and what are they eating? It always amazed me at the amount of people I would have to call, email, or text to find out what their plans were.

My clients, especially my brides, are planning huge events that require a lot of time and energy. There are frequent tough decisions that need to be made and in that last 6-8 weeks leading up to the big day, there can be some major stress that they have to deal with. The absolute last thing my clients need is to be finding out what the final headcount is. Hence, I do it for them. 

However, I had to write a blog about this, because I wanted there to be an understanding about R.S.V.P'ing. When an event is planned, the caterer or the venue needs a final headcount typically between 10-20 days prior to the date of the event. This typically means headcount along with what everyone will be eating. A phone call to a bride 72 hours before the event to RSVP just doesn't fly. Especially when the bride has ordered linens which are based on the table size which is based on the headcount which was needed 2 months ago.

Then there are the hotel blocks and the transportation needs. For a wedding, there are typically a block of rooms set aside for guests. The hotel holds these rooms until a specific date (which was probably included in the invitation or on the wedding website) and after that, the rooms go away. I cannot tell you the number of phone calls I receive from my brides 1-2 weeks before their wedding because Aunt Millie called them to say "the hotel is out of rooms, what am I supposed to do?" Should've thought about that sooner, right?

Of course, typically my clients go another step to think even more about their guests and provide shuttles and transportation. The transportation companies sometimes request that these shuttles are booked months in advance. This means that you cannot suddenly decided on the day of the wedding that you're going to hop on board. If there is no room, sitting on someone's lap isn't cool either. Yes, I have seen it almost happen.

I guess this blog is a desperate plea. Please, if you receive an invitation to any kind of event, but especially a wedding, RSVP right away. Like, while the invitation is in your hand. Just walk on over to the calendar (I still have one hanging on my fridge) and see if you can make it. Then either pick up the phone and RSVP or send in the RSVP card (do what the invitation asks...because sending a text to say that you are coming when you are supposed to mail back the card that they paid to have put together is not acceptable). Then, boom! You're done! You have RSVP'd, it's on the calendar and you have made my clients very happy. Oh, and me too. I know we probably won't even meet until the day of the event, and maybe not even then, but trust me that I'm thankful. 

Please do not make my clients or me chase after you. There really is no reason for it. It's awkward. Like walking in on someone using the bathroom and that someone is your ex's new significant other, awkward.

RSVP. Please.

...and thank you.

-Danielle

Same Sex Wedding Giveway- NEW JERSEY!

YES! New Jersey finally made it legal for our gay friends to get married! We couldn't think of a better way to celebrate this than to launch a contest and giveaway an all-inclusive wedding to one lucky same-sex couple in New Jersey! Rothweiler Event Design has partnered with the amazing Wilshire Grand in West Orange, New Jersey, and along with very talented vendors, will be providing a dream wedding to a couple in 2014! This wedding will include everything from catering to decor to music to photography and more than you can imagine! You can nominate yourself and your special someone, or you can nominate a special couple that you feel deserves this amazing prize! Don't wait! Share this everywhere you can because the contest ends on December 13, 2013! Below are the rules and how to enter! Good luck!

Full Contest Rules:

1. Contest is open to all same sex (man and man, or woman and woman) couples that reside in The State of New Jersey and are engaged to be married. Couple must not already be married in New Jersey.

2. Couples must each be 21 years of age or older as of the launch of the contest (November 11, 2013).

3. Couples must write an essay of approximately 500 words in length as to why they deserve an all expense paid wedding package. Pictures of the couple are also required and should not exceed 3 total. Video submissions are encouraged and can be submitted via YouTube. Essays and photographs must be emailed directly to info@rothweilereventdesign.org on or before December 13, 2013 by midnight. Any entries received after this time will not be opened.

4. Couples agree to allow their essays and photographs to be published on the Facebook page of all of the vendors that are giving away their services. These pages include, but are not limited to, Rothweiler Event Design and The Wilshire Grand. Couple agrees to allow all of their video submissions to be shared.

5. Couples are encouraged to direct their friends and family to "like" their stories on the Facebook pages of the vendors involved. A complete vendor list with their facebook pages will be available at www.facebook.com/rothweilereventdesign.

6. Finalists will be contacted on or before December 17, 2013. If, for some reason, any finalist is unreachable, or unable to be contacted by noon on December 19, 2013, they will forfeit their spot and another couple will be selected.

7. All contestants must follow Rothweiler Event Design (@RothweilerEvent) and The Wilshire Grand (@WilshireCaterer) on Twitter. Each contestant must mention both Rothweiler Event Design and The Wilshire Grand on twitter after submitting their entry by using the hashtag #samesexweddinggiveaway.

8. Each contestant agrees to be present for the announcement of the winner on January 9th at 7pm at The Wilshire Grand in West Orange, New Jersey. The couple must be present at this cocktail party to win the grand prize. If the winning couple is not present at the cocktail party, a runner up will be selected.

9. The winning couple will be selected by the participating vendors. All decisions are final and may not be questioned.

10. The winning couple agrees to work with each individual vendor that is giving away their services for their wedding day. This includes, but is not limited to: music, photography, decor,  catering, officiant, etc. No outside vendors will be allowed to participate in the wedding planning or wedding itself.

11.The winning couples agrees to allow their wedding to be photographed and published in multiple media outlets.

12.The winning couple agrees to allow their wedding to be recorded for future media and television use.

13. The winning couple agrees to hold their wedding on a date already selected in 2014. This date is non-negotiable. Should the winning couple not agree to this date, they will forfeit the prize, and another couple will be selected.

14. The wedding guest count will not exceed 70 guests, which will include the couple as well.

15. The winning couple agrees to be interviewed for the media and multiple publications regarding their wedding planning, their relationship, etc.

16. The winning couple will be awarded various prizes that will total a complete wedding package. The prizes given from each individual vendor are already decided and are non-negotiable. 




 

What's in a Day?

Full planning, partial planning and the mysterious "day of" coordination. What does it all mean? What do we offer? How do you decide what you really need and want?

Let us help you out!

Many couples decide that want to bring on a wedding coordinator for the entire deal. This means, full planning, and translates to, we will get everything for you....venue to flowers, officiant to photographer, honeymoon to cigar bar, soup to nuts....

Partial planning is for the couple that has the venue set up, and a few vendors already booked, but needs the rest put together.

Day of Coordination is included in every single package, and also stands by itself. This package alone is perfect for the couple that did all of the planning and just wants someone there to direct the final package in the 8 weeks leading up to the wedding (i.e. the most stressful) and on both the rehearsal and the wedding day. 

But your venue comes with a wedding coordinator?! No, they actually don't. What your venue comes with is a "venue coordinator". This is not the same as a wedding coordinator. We coordinate the entire wedding, while they coordinate just the venue. Which means that if your limo doesn't show up, or gets lost, they aren't calling your "venue coordinator" (that came with the venue free of charge...big deal) they are calling you, your groom, your parents, your maid of honor, or anyone just to figure out how to get you to your wedding on time. Sound like a good time? We didn't think so.

Not only do we make sure that not a single vendor is bothering you, your family or any of your guests on the wedding day, but they will be leaving you alone in the two months leading up to your big day. This means no nagging phone calls about your song list, no life or death questions about a flower change, no random "where do I deliver the linens" voicemails...all of that, goes to us. So go ahead and have that bridal shower, bachelor and bachelorette party, spa day(s), whatever you want!

Rothweiler Event Design will step in 2 months before your wedding day and coordinate with all of your vendors and your venue. Here are a list of things you also get with your "Day Of" Coordination package with us:

1. Unlimited text, phone calls and emails that will all be answered within 12-24 hours, if not sooner. Try getting that from anyone else....
2. Assistance at your final dress fitting so that we can bustle your dress on the big day.
3. Assistance at your final walk through at the venue to go over the entire layout and where you want everything from your escort table to the DJ to the seating chart.
4. Pick up and delivery of every single item that you will need to be set up at the ceremony, cocktail hour and reception site...and after party if you're having one.
5. Final payment reminders for all of your vendors.
6. RSVP follow up to those guests that just can't seem to remember to call and let you know if they are coming to the big event.
7. Timeline set up for you, your partner, the bridal party, and anyone else involved.
8. Rehearsal dinner set up, reservations and maintenance.
9. Scouting for locations to take pictures on the big day, and securing any and all permits necessary to take pictures in those picturesque locations. 
10. Confirmation conversations with all of your vendors to finalize each detail from deliveries to timing of such and everything in between.
11. Timeline set up for everyone from the stylists to the transportation to the photographer and straight through the entire reception.
12. Two coordinators with you for both your rehearsal and your wedding day.
13. Pack up at the end of the night everything from envelopes to top cake tier, and delivery to where ever you need it to be.
14. Day after check in and pick up of your wedding gown to bring it to be preserved...and we'll take care of your flowers too.

That's just a few of the things that come with your "Day Of" Coordination package. We're there with you every step of the way, and no venue coordinator can replace that. It's also important to us that your guests, family members and bridal party have a good time and don't have to work on the wedding day. Let us take care of it for you,  you have planned enough by now!

Interested? Want to know more? Thinking, "OMG I didn't even know this existed and I totally need Rothweiler Event Design to be there with me!!!"? Awesome. We want to hear from you too!

Email us to set up a complimentary consultation at info@rothweilereventdesign.org. We've seen and fixed it all. Don't feel that you need to worry about anything...we will handle everything.

Danielle Rothweiler
Rothweiler Event Design
 

Web MD: Cancer

We know you have choices for all of your wedding vendors, and that includes your wedding planner. Frequently we're asked "why is a wedding planner/photographer/DJ....etc so expensive?" Well, while we cannot justify the rates of other vendors, we'd like to take a moment to discuss wedding planning in general.

Wedding planning is a full time job, and we take our job very seriously. You absolutely could hire a "planner" for Day Of Coordination for $500. And you would be wasting your money. 

Day Of Coordination with us (and many other planners) begins weeks before the actual day. We spend 6-8 weeks prior to your wedding day consulting with your vendors, setting up timelines, scouting photography locations, and so much more. In fact, the 6-8 weeks before your wedding is the time your planner will work the hardest and have the most to do. We also attend your rehearsal with two coordinators and your wedding day with two coordinators. Oh, and we don't do that "10 hour day" thing. We're there, all day, sun up to way past sundown. 

$500 for Day Of, equates to $62.50 a week. That's $8.93 a day. Not an hour, a day. So, if you're paying a planner $500 for their Day Of services, that means you are paying them $8.93 for your actual wedding day. What kind of service do you expect for less than $10 a day?

We pride ourselves on our experience, ratings, references and services. There are many planners to choose from, and while not all will suit your style, we recommend choosing one that does, even if that means going with one that charges a higher rate.

After all....hiring a cheap "planner" is like consulting Web MD instead of going to your doctor. The answer is always the same: cancer. 

Vintage and Rustic Goodie-ness

This past weekend we celebrated with Lisa and Ted at a beautiful venue in Lambertville, New Jersey. The bride and groom were vintage perfection, and they got married in a beautiful garden. Following the ceremony was an outdoor cocktail hour and a tented reception.

The decor was absolutely perfect and truly reflected the interests of the bride and groom. Vintage and antique fanatics, their tables were adorned with burlaped mason jars, wildflowers and antique cake toppers. Even their table numbers were held by bent forks that just completed the look!

Opting to go with a very popular trend, the reception held all long tables with white linens and a burlap runner. They focused on yellow and gray, and used a pop of yellow for their napkins and on their menus. Everything pulled together beautifully. 

If you are looking to do something different, we offer floral design such as what you see pictured in this blog. We'll work directly with you on your decor and put together your arrangements for your tables. Longer tables can hold a variety of centerpieces, so wildflowers, peonies, sunflowers, and even roses will stand out and look stunning.

Congratulations to this fabulous couple! We were so happy to work with you on your special day!

Danielle
Rothweiler Event Design
www.rothweilereventdesign.com
info@rothweilereventdesign.org

Fall Inspirations

Wow! This summer went by in a blink, and we're so excited for the fall. From the warm colors, to the firepits and s'mores, it's no wonder this season is full of parties, celebrations, and of course, weddings. The humidity disappears, the temperatures cool off and the smell of the leaves changing fills the air. 

We are so inspired by this season. One of the favorite things we like to do is to incorporate fruits with warmer colors into centerpieces. As seen in this picture, we used oranges (some halved) along with deep purple grapes to add something a little different for this fall wedding. Fruits and vegetables to be considered? Artichoke hearts, grapes, pomegranates and yes, even blood oranges. Work with your florist to pull these items together with the flowers you want to use.

Think back to those campfires with friends...remember how cozy the firepit was? Think about having one at your reception, complete with hot cocoa and s'mores. Let your guests put the marshmallows onto sticks and roast them over a warm fire before placing them between chocolate and graham crackers. Want to skip the mess, or don't have room for a firepit? Consider giving away pre-packaged s'mores as your favor for guests to enjoy later in the season.

What about the fall inspires you? How will you incorporate the season into your big day? We'd love to hear your thoughts!

Danielle Rothweiler
Rothweiler Event Design
 

Not all Planners are Created Equal

We are, obviously, major advocates of hiring a party planner for your next big event. From weddings to Mitzvahs, it's great to have someone by your side handling every last detail. One of the best things about hiring a planner is using their expertise and working with vendors that they recommend. There is an endless supply of "photographers", "DJs", "bands", "caterers", etc....but a solid planner will be able to hire talented vendors and the best people for your party. So, step one: hire a planner and not a "planner"; because, oh, did we mention...everyone is a "planner" now.

It seems that once someone plans their party, or especially, their wedding, without hiring a planner, they suddenly feel qualified to become a planner. They don't work for anyone else, they just start their own company, charge ridiculously low prices and ruin what otherwise would be an amazing event. They start their instagram pages with inspiration pictures from pinterest, and come to facebook groups asking basic questions that experienced planners would already know. They charge their clients almost nothing, and frankly, that is more than they are worth.

Recently, a "planner" asked in an open forum for venue recommendations. She didn't mention that she was a planner and many people assumed she was a bride. I, and plenty of other experienced professionals, handed over to her multiple suggestions before she had to admit that she was the planner. She also mentioned that "cost isn't an issue" for the bride. Let's look at this from the bride's point of view: she is paying a "planner" for her advice and experience, yet this planner cannot even offer a venue recommendation without coming to facebook for assistance. This "planner" then takes all of these suggestions (that came from experienced professionals) and brought them back to her bride, and the bride assumes that this "planner" did actual research. How happy would this bride be to find out that her "planner" also said that cost "isn't an issue"? It doesn't matter the budget or lack thereof, you want to find the best option for your client. But this "planner" doesn't know that because she has no experience. 

I have also stumbled across a "planner's" website that states her "years" of experience but she has no portfolio to show for it. In fact, all of the pictures on her instagram account are pulled straight from pinterest. Years of experience and yet not one picture to prove it? That's very strange.

The bottom line is this: you get what you pay for and not all planners are created equal. When shopping for a planner, you want to make sure they have a solid portfolio, references, reviews and can back up their work. While a planner won't give up their ideas during a consultation, they should be able to give you enough information to prove that they know what they are doing. No matter if they meet you in their office or Starbucks, they should always be able to prove that they have a solid background. Why pay for someone that goes to facebook for venue recommendations? It just doesn't make any sense. A planner should be responsible for all of the decisions you are hiring them for, and if they are seeking advice elsewhere, how is that going to be possible?

I really didn't want to have to write this blog. I am not seeking to tear down people that want to become planners either. There are a good amount of talented planners out there, you just have to make sure that you're hiring one of them. Ask for the portfolio and the references/reviews. You have every right to know whom you are hiring. 

Do you have a bad experience with a planner? Did someone ever lie to you about their resume and you found out? We'd love to hear your story! Please feel free to leave your comments here or email us at info@rothweilereventdesign.com

We'd also like to thank the real planners out there. The ones that work hard to put together the best event for their clients and have the experience to back it up. You know who you are, and we do too. Cheers to you all and best wishes for the future! 

Danielle Rothweiler
Rothweiler Event Design
www.rothweilereventdesign.com
info@rothweilereventdesign.com

 

Evolving as a Couple

Marriage is forever, right? And we're forever changing, right? So, what happens when we change but we're already married? Does or should the marriage change to? How do we and/or can we evolve as a couple?

There is the idea that as we go through life, we experience things that change us as a person. Many people think they don't really know who they are until well into their 20s. Yet, plenty of people are still getting married before that time. There are the parents that tell their children "you're too young to know what you want", and what they basically mean, is that you don't even know who you are yet. So why are people getting married before they are done growing up? Or does it even matter since we're always evolving as people?

When you make the decision to be with someone for life, you also choose to accept them "for better or for worse". If you're evolving as a person, do you evolve as a couple? How can we keep from "outgrowing" our spouses? Perhaps the answer is better communication and taking time to really listen to one another. Don't forget, that you married your best friend, and that trust and conversation will always be important. 

How about you? How do you evolve as a couple? If your beliefs change, and they no longer coincide with your spouse's, how do you communicate this?

We love the planning aspect of the wedding and making everything beautiful...but the marriage is what truly matters, so we hope you'll join the conversation! Please feel free to leave your comments below!

On Screen Engagements

We love seeing proposals, in fact, we even help plan them! They can be over the top or simple, but they are becoming the first step towards planning the wedding day in more ways the one. Proposals are becoming more than just getting down on one knee, they involve candles, photography, music, and....helicopters?

Of course, with the large amount of reality television available right now, the stage is set for stars to showcase their weddings and of course, their proposals. Starting with The Bachelor over a decade ago, on screen proposals are popular because, let's face it, people love love! 

We are big fans of almost every show that Bravo has to offer, including The Housewives franchise. Recently, one of our favorite housewives, Gretchen Rossi, flipped the script and proposed to her sweetie of many years, Slade. Through all the editing, it was still so easy to see how much thought and effort this blonde beauty put into her proposal, and the love was just bursting through the screen. From the surprise serenade, to greeting her love "on top of the world", and ending with an engagement party, it was just gorgeous!

What we really loved was the idea of a woman proposing to her man. It's 2013 and we have seen tradition go right out the window with many of the weddings we work on. This proposal was complete with a ring, and although Gretchen didn't get down on one knee (Slade did however), the proposal that she put together is something most women (and men now?) dream about! 

So what did you think? Should women consider doing the proposing? Men, what would you think if your girl popped the question first?

Please feel free to leave your comments!

Danielle Rothweiler
Rothweiler Event Design
www.rothweilereventdesign.com

A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words

Engagement portraits are very popular and for good reason. Many couples like to use these pictures as their "Save the Dates", or just to have a great picture to hang over the fireplace. An engagement is a special time when you're planning for a big day almost every single day leading up to it. However, an engagement photoshoot gives you time to be with the one you want to spend the rest of your life with, and just relax. 

Often times these pictures are taken of the happy couple in casual clothing at a location special to them. Sometimes they are done in a studio, or even the home in which the couple lives. But this week, we saw Kelly Clarkson doing something very different, and it's causing quite the buzz.

While Kelly does look beautiful in this picture, strangely absent is her fiance. In a rather "Beauty and the Beast" type of photoshoot (the library and reading and all), Kelly Clarkson sits in a poofy white wedding gown, alone. She looks beautiful, the picture is fantastic, the location is original, but, does it say "engagement" portrait to you? 

We think a picture like this would be a great advertisement for the dress designer (whomever it may be) but it's not what we think of when we picture "engagement pictures". Then again, trends seem to be falling apart in the wedding world, and we even have brides choosing to wear something other than white down the aisle. 

So what do you think? Is this fun and pretty for an engagement shoot, or should she have picked a more traditional setting that included her fiance? We'd love to hear your comments so please feel free to share them below! If you're planning something non-traditional for your engagement photoshoot, please email us at info@rothweilereventdesign.com and you might be featured in a future blog!

Happy Planning!

Danielle Rothweiler
Rothweiler Event Design
www.rothweilereventdesign.com

Tradition, Shmadition

We're big fans of the magazine, Cosmopolitan, and heck, we even follow them on twitter! They publish a lot of great articles that are perfect for the bride to be, or really anyone in a relationship. This morning, we noticed them tweet out about certain wedding traditions that they more or less would like to see go down in flames....here's what we think on the subject, and we want to hear your thoughts too!

Two things they want to ditch are both the bouquet toss and the garter retrieval. More and more, we're seeing the garter retrieval disappear and we can understand why. It's not really a PG activity and can be embarrassing for a lot of people involved. However, the bouquet toss we think should be kept, or at the very least modified. The "Cosmo" writer mentioned that she wanted to keep her bouquet, and of course, what bride wouldn't? We always have our florists work in a "throw away" bouquet so that the bride can keep those beautiful petals she walked down the aisle with. 

Cosmo also mentioned a big tradition, and that is, seeing your sweetheart before that walk down the aisle. We know so many couples that toss that out the window and are now taking what is known as "a first look" picture. We recently posted on our Instagram (@RothweilerEventDesign) a behind the scenes shot of one of our couples that took advantage of a first look opportunity. This is a great chance for brides and grooms to see each other, one on one, before that march down the aisle. Not to mention, a lot of pictures can then be taken before the ceremony, thus freeing up the bride and groom to enjoy their cocktail hour, instead of a photoshoot. 

Check out the rest of the article and what traditions they say they would ditch. Did yours make the cut? What are you changing about your big day? Let us know in the comments selection below!

Article: http://www.cosmopolitan.com/sex-love/relationship-advice/wedding-traditions?src=spr_TWITTER&spr_id=1440_13594972

Danielle Rothweiler
Rothweiler Event Design
www.rothweilereventdesign.com
info@rothweilereventdesign.com

Our Feature in The Knot: New Jersey, Fall Winter 2013

Happy Wedding Wednesday to the brides and grooms to be of the world! We are so honored to be featured in The Knot, New Jersey Fall Winter 2013 edition! Every issue they interview a panel of experts, and we were chosen as their expert planner. In this article we discuss some of our secrets and how after putting together a wedding during Hurricane Sandy, that we welcome any future challenges. 

The magazine is also chock full of other amazing articles including real weddings taking place in the beautiful Garden State! Make sure you take a trip to the store and pick up your copy today...and then don't forget to email us at info@rothweilereventdesign.com or call 732.236.4065 for your complimentary consultation to get started on your big day!

Thanks so much to everyone over at The Knot!

Danielle Rothweiler
Rothweiler Event Design
www.rothweilereventdesign.com
 

Christmas in July!

Deck the halls with big big savings! It's our annual Christmas in July planning extravaganza!

Now until the end of July, when you book your event with us you can save up to 50% off all packages, plus an additional 10% off on all of your paper products AND 10% off on all of the sweets...wedding cake to groom's cake and everything in between. 

If you're on our mailing list, you've already received this incredible offer. But if not, just send an email to info@rothweilereventdesign.com for more information. A planner is in everyone's budget and we customize to fit what you need. Let us be the best friend next to you working side by side. Trust me, when you get closer to that big day, you'll want someone to call at 2am to vent to. 

Merry July!

You plan the wedding but what about the proposal?

Think about it. You spend anywhere from 6 months to 2 years planning your wedding. Endless hours are put into finding the perfect venue, dress, flowers, and vendors. But how much time did you better half spend putting together your proposal?

We ask our clients all the time, "how did he/she propose?", and frequently we hear, "well, it was supposed to be...." or.... "well, it was nice but..." Yeah, it's sad, but true.

But let's face it, a lot of pressure goes into making the proposal perfect. A recent story on The Today Show spoke about how it's now possible for the proposer to get some help; and that it's not a bad idea. We couldn't agree more!

All that really matters is that you say what's in your heart and ask the love of your life to marry you. But what about location? Do you have a plan B? How about hiring a photographer to capture the moment? Surprise dinner with friends afterwards? Romantic dinner for just the two of you? Or maybe you want something less cliche and more YOU? 

Rothweiler Event Design offers these services. We will work with you on your concept and design and execute with you the perfect proposal. You will be there 9 times out of 10 when she/he tells the story of how you proposed, so why not make it a good one?

Call us at 732.236.4065 or email info@rothweilereventdesign.com for more information. Let's make sure she says "yes" with a big smile and lots of tears!

 

It's another event....are you registered?

Getting married? Getting divorced? Buying a new home? Going away to college? Whatever the case, it's party time! We would like to invite you to The Blow Out Lounge at Anthony Robert Salon in Verona, NJ on July 18th from 5-9pm. 

This is a great opportunity for you to come and meet the areas top vendors. We will have amazing food, mini hair and make up consultations, dress shopping and yes, you can even try out our favorite photobooth!
You may recognize the name of the salon, and yes, Anthony is a star on Style's "Jerseylicious". 

So if you have always wanted to swing by his gorgeous salon and schedule a hair trial with him, this is your big chance! His team will also be there for mini-make up consultations and we recently called on his salon to do some barber work for one of our groom and his groomsmen on the day of the wedding. 

If you're looking for a great photographer to capture all of those amazing moments, the best food to impress your guests, that perfect dress with a lot of bling, music you can dance to or flower and decor assistance than THIS is the event for you! Call 973.857.1922 to register! There is no cost to attend and this is perfect for anyone looking to plan their next big event.

We hope to see you there!

Summer Lovin', Happened So Fast

Summer is finally here, and we're waist deep in event season! From weddings to divorce parties to graduations and more, we're busy planning every detail for our fabulous clients! With summer comes the need to be outdoors and celebrate right along with Mother Nature. But this summer, Mother Nature hasn't been that kind to New Jersey. So we wanted to pass along a few tips for how to survive her mood swings, and welcome you to add in your own!

Everyone that wants to have their party outside, never wants to think about their "Plan B". Let's face it, if Plan B was as fantastic as Plan A, it would already be....Plan A! But this is something to consider and be realistic about. Whether you're having an event at a banquet hall, or at one of our private estates as pictured above, there is no reason to be scared of the rain and the changes you will have to make.

Tenting is a great option. If you are insistent that your event take place outdoors, we recommend looking into tents, and getting the best. The tents that we use can withstand the rain, heat, cold and wind. You'll still get the feeling of being outside, without the nightmare of getting your hair soaked. For one of our clients we used a completely clear tent, and even though it didn't rain, many of her guests wanted to take cover inside and away from the pesky mosquitoes. The clear ceiling provided a beautiful way to see the stars at night without the need for bug spray. 

Heat and the sun can be lovely for a day at the beach, but not for a ceremony that lasts longer than 5 minutes. It's important to provide your guests ways to be comfortable from flip flops to fans and yes, even sunscreen. Typically the guests of honor won't notice the mercury rising, but the guests certainly will. Bottled water goes a long way, as does a ceremony that starts on time and moves quickly. Don't forget to mention on your invitation that the event will be outside so that guests can prepare however they feel necessary. And be ready to go at the scheduled start time.

Your guests will notice if the weather is completely changing their plans, so find a way to really surprise them. Don't give away all of the details of your big day to your guests, no matter how much they ask. Whether it's late night cookies and milk, a surprise percussion section, or a sparkly send off, keep those details quiet! Everyone attending will be so happy to see that not only did you party go off without a hitch, but there were a few surprises there too...the last thing they will be thinking about is the weather.

How do you keep your Plan B as fantastic as Plan A? Let us know in the comments section!

Every Step of the Way...

You spend months, maybe even over a year planning your special day. You look into all of the details, making sure that everything flows from the invitations to the flowers to the wardrobe. While you work hard to have each item reflect the overall theme, there are times when gaps occur. 

Often, clients of ours do not have time to do a walk through of their entire day. We at Rothweiler Event Design (www.rothweilereventdesign.com) do a complete walk through anywhere from 3-5 times before the day of the event. We take pictures of every angle from floor to ceiling, because your guests will be drawn to every inch of the space. This means that even though your venue might have some candles on the fireplace mantle, if they don't fit your design, they need to be substituted with something that does.

Your event planner will most likely walk through your venue space within the first month after signing the contract together. This is a rough walk to get a general idea of the canvas they can work with. As the date gets closer, the walk throughs increase, and are often done with other vendors from florists to furniture companies. One of the most important pieces of putting together an event, is knowing the space inside and out in the correct lighting. 

Our next wedding space will be utilizing an entire building with multiple rooms. It would be silly to just have the florist concentrate on the centerpieces, when there is so much more to decorate. Besides draping the walls in something different, we'll be adding flowers in unexpected places to go with the "garden" theme our bride fell in love with on day one. We recently walked through the venue with the florist as if we were guests, and our eyes went to all of those spaces that just seemed empty. While we're not going over the top, we're just looking to make the room come together. This is the same principle you would use when decorating your home.

What about your last event? Did you work your signature color into every room? How did you add your little touches at places like the bar or even the washroom? Let us know how you kept your theme going in every inch of your venue!

Color Combos

We were recently interviewed on our thoughts about color combinations....the dos and don'ts, the best way to make a decision, what matches the best...

Many times couples can't decide on what their favorite color is, and they feel like they have a lack of direction. She likes pastels and pinks, he likes grays and silvers, and they agree that all of them are beautiful. But the best way to choose a color palette is to work with the basics.

It's very important to finalize the date of your wedding so that you know what season you will be in. Take some time to do a quick google search and find out the flowers that are in season for your area. Do those flowers fit the image that you want for your wedding day and if so, what colors do they come in? 

Next would be to decide how you want each and every room to look. What magazines and websites are you drawn to? Are you more of a "Style me Pretty" bride, or does Grace Ormonde really inspire you? Look at the colors that are being used for those styles and ask yourself if you're drawn to them. Can you see the flowers in your head and do you want to put your bridal party in those colors?

The colors that you choose should flow from moment to moment without being overpowering. Whether you decide to have just one color in varying shades, or mix it up with three complimentary colors, make sure these details are present in everything including your invitations right down to the linens.

What colors have you selected for the big day, and was it a challenge? Tell us your story and you might be featured in an upcoming blog!

 

Another Wedding, Another Show

Flash! Bam! Showtime!

Whether it's a reality television show, the movies, or a publication of a no budget wedding, frequently, a wedding becomes a show. When really, it should be about you two showing your love.

Brides and grooms can get overwhelmed with wanting their special day to stand out. Pressured to have a theme and lots of glitter, they find any way to go over the top so their guests will talk about their wedding for years to come. Now, there really is nothing wrong with glitter (though you can never really get it out of your hair), but we think a wedding shouldn't be a spectacle, just for the sake of being a spectacle. It's not about making your guests talk about how high the centerpieces are, and where you found dancing elephants for your reception. It's about the two of you.

When planning your wedding, draw upon the romance and friendship that you share with your other half. Use your favorite colors, most memorable trips, and inside jokes to bring the wedding to life. Perhaps you both love camping, but you're having your reception inside a hall lined with marble and you love sparkle and bling. Well, you can't go camping without the stars above. Consider hiring a lighting technician to put stars on the ceiling so that when your guests enter from the cocktail hour, they are swept away into the romance that you two share. 

Being over the top and putting on a show is perfectly acceptable. Just make sure that you're showing everyone your love first. Happy planning!

Happy Valentine's Day.....let's get married!

Last February, over 2 BILLION dollars was spent at the jewelry store...and yes, plenty of that went to sparkly diamond rings so that "the" question could be popped! Whether you're already planning your wedding, or are still waiting for that ring, we wish you all a very Happy Valentine's Day!

That said, Valentine's Day is (not surprisingly) one of the more popular days of the year to get engaged. Other holidays that people prefer are Christmas, Thanksgiving, and yes, even New Year's Eve. In the wedding industry, we like to call this time of the year "engagement season". Many vendors will see a huge rush of newly engaged brides and grooms rush to their doors wanting to start the planning process right around this time. Keep this in mind if you're one of the lucky ones to get a ring put on your finger on Cupid's holiday! 

The first step, after showing off the bling, is to start interviewing wedding coordinators. We are the glue that will hold your day together and the best friend to be with you every step of the way. Whether you're looking to walk down the aisle before the next Valentine's Day, or you want to take your time and explore your options, the wedding planner is the first person you call. We'll be able to talk to you about your vision and really guide you to the right venue and the right vendors. 

Don't bask in the shine of that pretty new ring too long though, because those vendors that are on the top of your list, will be on the top of someone else's that got proposed to today! Brides and grooms that are able to secure their number one choice of vendor in each category will always find the wedding planning process less stressful than others who wait.

So Happy Valentine's Day to all of those couples out there! Make sure your first phone call is to us so we can get started on planning that special day!

B is for Beautiful

Once the date is picked, many brides vow to lose weight and start taking care of themselves. Whether it's a new gym membership, trips to the spa once a month, or getting that makeover from your stylist, every bride is different. We asked some of our brides what their beauty regime is leading up to the big day.

Many of our brides said that looking amazing in their gown was their number one priority. A few even hired a personal trainer. Since many of our ladies reside in the very cold state of New Jersey, they don't get that outside running time anymore. Because of this, many have picked up some work out gear for their house. Two of our brides said they are even looking into hiring a nutritionist to switch up their diet.

Of course, as the big day gets even closer, the beauty regime steps up. This can be anything from piling on the spray tans, religiously taking your make up off at night, and deep conditioning your lovely locks. 

What about you? What are you doing to look picture perfect for that big day? Do you have any secrets you want to share with other brides? Tell us right here!

 

Cirque de Wedding

It's amazing how inspiration can strike. A bride says the word "carnival" and instantly, we're thinking about how to make it work. Brides with this theme in mind, typically want to incorporate the outdoors, which means bringing in some tents. Instead of just having your basic white tent, why not take it up a notch, and have a full on carnival!

If you're tenting different areas for your cocktail hour and then reception, save the carnival tent for the reception to really "wow" your guests. But don't stop there! 

This is a great time to hire performers. Whether you bring animals onto the property, or have someone breathing fire, a circus theme allows for these performers to be there without stealing your show. Food trucks, a big trend right now, are also perfect for this type of event. Who doesn't love a little late night funnel cake and cotton candy?

What do you think? Is the circus right for your wedding or next big event? Tell us how you would really kick it up a notch!

Christmas Lights: Not Just for Santa Anymore

Lighting is one of the key components of any major event, and there is no end to what is now possible. Whether you want stars on the ceiling, or every wall to be washed in pink, anything can happen.

A major trend is using Christmas lights year round. We used to see them for weddings around the holidays, to add a little extra magic to the air. Now, we see them outside, wrapped around oak trees and twinkling during the summer nights.

One of the best parts of using Christmas lights is the versatility. You can use big white bulbs strung across the outside dancefloor, or tiny blue lights to cool off your reception room. There is really nothing "Christmas" anymore about these lights, and it's an affordable way to add a little sparkle. We've even used white lights inside hanging mason jars to give that "lighting bug in a jar" look to a fall wedding on a farm. No matter your location, venue hall or bed and breakfast, Christmas lights are a great way to add to your event.

What is the most creative way you've seen these lights used?

Themed OUT

You've got the ring...and now what? The wedding you've always dreamed of since you were a little girl? Has your style changed? Dreaming of a winter wedding, but loving summer colors? Loving that laid back farm style but can't figure out how to use lace, burlap and everything else together?

We see this ALL the time: brides that are THEMED OUT! There is a lot of pressure on marrying couples to pick a theme and have it run throughout the day. But what if you love everything and can't figure out where to start? Let us help you out!

First things first, decide on the time of year that appeals to you most. This depends on a myriad of factors from your favorite season, to the most convenient time for you both to wed and then honeymoon. Keep an open mind when visiting venues, and don't just push aside a venue because they don't have the one date that would make everything perfect. Visit venues that really encompass the overall feel that you are looking for. Give your wedding planner some thoughts, whether it's vintage, or organic, or glitzy, whatever it is...use lots of adjectives. Once you have the budget figured out, your planner can bring you to venues that will really give you that feel you're going for.

Once the venue is done, then it's on to all the other details. From the dress to the food to the music, there are ways to incorporate who you are as a couple, and pull your theme throughout the entire day. Don't overload yourself with a ton of different ideas. Write everything down that you love, and then streamline it with your planner. Most important of all: when you're feeling overwhelmed, take a break, have a glass of wine, and revisit everything tomorrow.

For more ways to make that theme come to life, please feel free to comment below. If you're still looking for that planner to help you out, call us for your complimentary consultation!

Happy Planning!