Platinum Lining Events Blog - Wedding and Special Event news, tips and articles

PLE using Pinterest.com

Posted on April 26th, 2013 by ssopkin

Pinterest.com is one of the newest growing social media websites where people share ideas, hobbies, tutorials, and much more. There is a specific Wedding and Events section of the website where people share everything from their pictures of their dress, their centerpieces, or even bridal party gifts. I love Pinterest because it acts as a digital magazine where you can digitally save the pages you want all in one organized place. Any idea that you love can quickly be pinned to your page to help with the planning of every aspect of your wedding!

At Platinum Lining Events, we use Pinterest.com to connect with our brides and share creative ideas. There is a feature where you may share a board with someone else and all members may add ideas. Once a bride establishes a theme or color scheme, I create the board and invite them to share their inspiration allowing both the planner and bride to see what each had in mind. The website also features private boards so only people you choose can see what is being pinned to that board. Pinterest gives me a chance to have a collaborative space with my brides to help put together the look and feeling of their wedding.?

I also have many other boards to give brides inspiration and an idea of what they might want on their wedding day. Things such as dresses, cakes, centerpieces, hairstyles, and grooms fashion are all pinned on our page. Visit our site to get inspiration: http://pinterest.com/PLEDesignBoards/

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Do You Have a “B” Plan for Your Outdoor Wedding?

Posted on April 26th, 2013 by ssopkin

April Showers Bring May Flowers!!

Photo by Concept Photography

Are you getting married in the Spring? If so you may want to really consider having a back up plan if any part of your wedding is taking place outside. Winter months are a given but even in California you should be prepared during the Spring season too.

Weather can be beautiful and sunny in the morning and quickly change to rain later in the day. Regardless of the month you are getting married, I would say ALWAYS have a “B” Plan if your wedding is taking place outside! Mother nature is very unpredictable and you want to make sure that everything goes smoothly and as planned.

When you chose your venue, make sure they have an indoor area large enough to hold your guests if something should happen. The venue should be prepared to move everything indoors so they are not caught off guard that day. If an indoor space is not an option, consider ordering a tent ahead of time and have it on stand-by. You may have to put a depoist down and if you don’t use the tent you may lose the money, but if it does rain you will have the peace of mind that your wedding will still continue. Do not wait until the last minute to schedule a tent because they may not have one available at the last minute.

Photo from Weddingbee.com

If you decide to relocate your wedding because of the rain make sure that you call your florist, catering company, and DJ to tell them of this change. They may have to come up with a new plan too, but they will be happy you told them a few days or hours ahead instead of being caught off guard when they show up on site.

Having umbrellas for your guests to use would be ideal to make them feel comfortable. If the weather only mentions light showers you may not have to relocate but the umbrellas would help keep guests dry for the rest of the day. You can even get them personalized and make them as a favor for your guests to take home.

It has been said that rain is good luck for your wedding day! So if it does rain on your big day don’t stress. Be confident that you have a “B” plan and just relax and enjoy your time!

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Grooms Attire

Posted on March 18th, 2013 by ssopkin

Some brides dream about their wedding dresses their whole lives and know exactly when they find the perfect one, but what about your groom? Your groom should look just as good as you at the wedding, and might need a few tips.

A dark suit or tuxedo in black is very traditional and classic, you just can’t go wrong with this option. But, this option is more common and easy to find. What if your groom wants to add a little pizazz to his black suit/tux I would suggest he consider pattern options like:

*Pinstripe- thin lines running vertically on the suit jacket and pants and is a very flattering for all body types.

*Windowpane- vertical and horizontal stripes crossing each other to make a windowpane effect, making this print a little more playful.

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I love the groom that is ready to be completely different and non-traditional. That would fall under the category of a light color suit, perfect for spring and summer time weddings. Colors such as tan, grey and taupe bring a lighter and more causal feeling to the wedding overall and will help keep your groom and groomsmen cooler during the warmer months. Grooms who enjoy the casual look may also consider not wearing a jacket at all. A vest or simply a button down shirt, are always great options as well.

What if you still want to keep it formal but your groom wants to make a fashion statement but stay clear of the traditional black? How about a velvet jacket, dark paisley or even white jacket? These will be sure to make a fashion statement!

upscalehype.com

Some of the best dressed men just walked the red carpet at the Oscars. Draw on their style for inspiration for your groom. Just make sure your groom’s attire compliments and is in the same style category of the dress you choose! Don’t wear a formal gown and have your groom in a linen, tan suit! Your dress sets the tone so make sure you have purchased it before your groom goes shopping!

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What’s Your Station? …Favorite Food Station That Is!

Posted on January 24th, 2013 by LaDawn

As brides become more creative, weddings become more unique, creating a “Taste” of their own characteristics and personal style, infused into their wedding.

The reception room is not just tables and food with a few centerpieces. Today’s guests want to be intrigued as they anticipate entering your reception room, wondering what special treat awaits them. So get your guests up and moving around and break the mold of the traditional wedding reception!

One to a few stations of any possible food or drink is a very fun and a chic alternative to the stale buffet or traditional sit down dinner. There are endless possibilities to stations you can design, just talk to your caterer, I promise they will be excited to come up with some unique ideas for you. Don’t be afraid to let your imagination go wild!

Idea #1: Interactive, Made to Order Stations are the trend like Carving Stations, Baked Potato, Sushi, Pizza, Pasta, Mac and Cheese, Crepes, or even a Waffle Station.

Idea #2: Keep your traditional sit down dinner and add some fun self-serve stations like, Fruits & Veggies with fun, flavored dips, Popcorn, Candy, Sweets & Desserts, S’Mores and my favorite, make your own Ice Cream Sundae.

Idea #3: Don’t forget the libations, like a Vodka Bar, Ice Luge, Cappuccino/Espresso Bar or Flavored Soft Drinks!!

My mouth is watering!!! So what’s your favorite food station? No matter what you choose, it’s guaranteed that your guests will be engaged in mixing, mingling, eating and drinking and enjoying your beautiful day!

Stations are imaginative and add delightful memoirs that will leave you and your guests with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

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What’s Your Wedding Theme

Posted on November 12th, 2012 by LaDawn

Let me just start out this weeks tips by saying that ALL Weddings have a theme! Some are more subtle then others but when you set out to design your wedding day, you ultimately have to have a vision, a plan and an overall look of what you want. That boils down to a theme or if you prefer a style. I think theme and style can be interchangeable. Once you decide the “look” of your wedding, that’s when you set out to create all the elements that will ultimately make your wedding unique.

Industrial Theme Wedding – Riverside Art Museum

1. Having a themed wedding is one of the best ways to showcase you and your fiance’s style and favorite things. What are some of your favorite things, and how can you incorporate those elements into your wedding? One of my brides is obsessed with corn, literally!! So we added a popcorn buffet as her favors and it was a huge success! Think of something you would you love to share with your family and friends and add it to your wedding!!

2. Theme’s allow you to be original and wow your guests. Even if it’s a theme that has been done before. Put a twist on it, personalize it and set a trend!! Have your cocktail hour before the ceremony, have a late night snack, eat from a food truck, pose in a photo booth, weddings are really fun these days and there are no rules so go for it!

3. If you are a more traditional bride, you don’t have to be so specific about your theme. You can just have your color, location or season be your inspiration! Or do one spectacular surprise that your guests will never forget!

4. Plan a destination wedding. You can extend your wedding over several days, including activities such as beach BBQ, spa days, diving trips and rounds of golf. You can also incorporate traditions, foods, and music from the local area into the wedding ceremony and reception to make your wedding just that bit different.

5. Try and continue your theme in all of your stationary. There should be a common thread. Create a family crest, monogram or special font and use that on everything. Your Save the Dates, Invitations, Programs, Escort Cards, Menu Cards, Signage and don’t forget your Thank You cards. Have fun with it!!

Create an inspiration board, it can be a good road map to keep you focused and not all over the place. What I really think is Sensational, is coming up with something new and different so that brides coming after you will look to you for the new trends.

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Images by: www.trueemotions.com

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Guidelines to Obtaining a Marriage License in Southern California

Posted on November 12th, 2012 by LaDawn

Requirements:

The couple must appear together, no exceptions.

Both must be over 18. If under 18 a court order must be obtained.

You are required to present a current government-issued photo I.D. (passport, a driver’s license, a state I.D. card, or a green card).

Other documents like (e.g. adoption papers, superior court name change, etc) may be applicable for the issuance of a marriage license. Before coming to the County Clerk’s Office, call and explain your situation in detail.

For Foreign Citizens a passport is required.

If you were previously married and the final dissolution was within the last two years, a copy of your divorce decree, annulment decree, or death certificate will be required. If the final dissolution was more than two years, written proof may not be required, but the date of the final dissolution must be provided at the time the license is requested.

You must completely fill out either a written or online application

Non- Requirements:

A blood test or health certificate are NOT required to obtain a marriage license.

There is NO residence or citizenship status requirement.

Other Important Info:

The marriage license is valid for 90 days from when it was issued from the county.

Proxy Marriages or Marriage over the phone or internet are NOT LEGAL in California

There is no waiting period. The license may be used upon issuance. After you obtain a marriage license, you may be married by your choice of one of the following persons qualified to perform marriage ceremonies:

Priest, Minister, or Rabbi of any religious denomination who is 18 years of age or older. An active or retired Judge, Commissioner, or an Assistant Commissioner of a court or record, or Justice Court of California. A Deputy Commissioner of Civil Marriages.

At least one witness must be present at the ceremony unless the couple is marrying using a confidential marriage license in which case no witness is required

Please visit your local County Clerk’s Office to get the processes started!

For specific county locations, you may contact Platinum Lining Events:

info@platinumlining.com

(909) 946-7222

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Hiring a DJ vs. a Live Band

Posted on September 14th, 2012 by LaDawn

One of the most important decisions you will make while planning your wedding is Your entertainment! Should you hire a DJ, Live Band or Both? I honestly don’t think one is better then the other. I think no matter which direction you choose, as long as you hire professionals your guests will have a great time.

However, below I give you a few comparisons on how they are different, pros and cons and a few ideas to help you make a decision for Your wedding reception!

Personal Preferences, Budget, Reception Logistics, and Guest Satisfaction.

Preferences-What kind of tone or ambiance do you want at your reception?

Party time!!! If your preference is party all night after the nuptials, a DJ might be your best bet. DJ’s have access to a large variety of music right at their finger tips. So more than likely, every guest can have the opportunity to hear a song that makes them get up out of their seat. DJ’s have also become the more traditional choice of brides and grooms and appeal to all generations.

Band

Live music always adds a “Wow Factor” to any wedding. Live bands are more interactive, guests can sing along and feel like they are at a concert. Bands can perform different renditions of your favorites and make your reception much more personalized. There is an inherent power and energy in live entertainment that usually captivates and appeals to the audience.

Budget- How much are you willing to spend?

DJ’s are less expensive for the most part. Unless you hire a Celebrity DJ. The average DJ ranges from $800- $1800. Your DJ can play music for your Ceremony, Cocktail Hour and Reception relatively easy moving between spaces.

Band

Live bands will always be higher in price compared to DJ’s. The average price points for a live band can range from $2000 to $12,000. You also have to take into consideration that a band is more than one person; you are paying for the ensemble as well as paying to feed all of the band members (usually in all band contracts after so many hours). A less expensive option is hiring a band during your Ceremony and Cocktail hour and hire a DJ for your reception.

Reception Space- Can your reception site accommodate big entertainment?

DJ’s take relatively less space, which leaves more room for dancing and mingling and guest tables. Most DJ’s equipment is so compact these days you may not even notice them. Usually DJ’s also Emcee and they can move around and and interact personally with your guests.

Band

Bands need more room to accommodate members and instruments. This could cut into the wiggle room for you and your guests and make it a little uncomfortable to maneuver around if it’s a small space. Most bands prefer to be elevated on a stage, do you have the budget and room for a stage? Because of their instruments they are stationary, but still can interact with your guest just in a different way.

Guest Satisfaction- I want my guests to have the time of their life!

Guests love to request songs. DJ’s have access to thousands of different genres that will accommodate any music choice. Just make sure you give your DJ a “do not play” list and I encourage you to ask your DJ to play all clean versions of your play-list. You don’t want to offend your grandma or anyone else for that matter; it is a Wedding.

Band

A live band will excite your guests, but bands usually don’t have a wide, on the spot music variety. Because it’s live, the members will need to take breaks. Be sure to ask if they will play pre-recorded music during intermissions otherwise you will have moments of silence!. You don’t want the party to come to a lull, because its break time.

As always, when selecting a DJ or Band, interview them first. Ask for a video or if you can see them in action. Get references! Besides the cost, preference and accommodations, make sure you love the personality of the DJ or Lead Band Member! They must fit your style and the style of your wedding. You want someone engaging and upbeat. Someone who can keep the party rolling. You don’t want anyone who has zero personality at your wedding. You want a crowd pleaser along with a fabulous play-list. Be clear and concise about what you want from your DJ or Band. This is your wedding you MUST know what you want and especially what you don’t want.

Image: Alan Mead from 5 Star Mobile DJ

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End of Summer/Fall Weddings!!

Posted on September 14th, 2012 by LaDawn

It’s back to school time and before you know it the leaves will start turning brown and the weather will start to get cooler and poof it’s Fall. I am still holding on to my last few weeks of summer before the Fall Season officially begins (Sept. 22nd). I will be sad to see Summer go, but with the change of seasons comes opportunities for new excitement, new challenges, and new delights!

Sometimes is California it’s hard to plan for season changes because our seasons are so similar, but when it comes to planning your wedding there are some fun ideas you can incorporate as the “season” changes!

The end of summer, going into fall, is a great time for a wedding because the season is changing. In my opinion this is one of the best times to get married in Southern California. Usually it’s not as hot and certainly not as cold as other parts of the U.S.!! September, October and November are great months to tie the knot! I got married in September and it was perfect (so I may be a little biased)!! Here are some tips to transition into the fall months.

Tip # 1: Often this can be confusing on what colors to chose for décor if you chose to follow the seasons. Using the bright summer colors everyone loves but toning them down to a darker shade or choosing a lighter shade is a great place to start. Popular colors for this time are often orange, yellow, and green in different shades to bring out the best of the season.

Tip #2: Try thinking of the things you like about the fall and lighten them up so its still playful for the end of summer beginning of fall. An example might be serving glasses of apple cider over ice for the guests at cocktail hour.

Tip #3: Rustic décor is very trendy this year and is a great cross between summer and fall. Keeping it simple with mason jars and bottles of different sizes wrapped in burlap accents of rope is classic and easy.

Tip #4: During the fall months keep in mind where you want to go on your honeymoon because the Caribbean and tropical areas usually have hurricane season during our fall. Plan ahead.

Tip #5: Consider heading to the dessert like Palm Springs during this time it is actually perfect weather out there during the fall months!!

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5 Tips my Intern Learned this Summer

Posted on September 11th, 2012 by LaDawn

What a fabulous summer!! We were so busy this summer helping our clients plan their weddings and we had very successful weddings this summer. One of the best parts about my summer is bringing in two wonderful interns – Shelby and Ashely!! They both were a huge help to me in the office and at several of my weddings.

Since this is their last week I asked Shelby to tell me what were the 5 things she learned this Summer to help Brides and I am sharing it with you below!

Written By: Shelby Sopkin

1) Smile and enjoy your day- A bride should learn to relax and just enjoy the day because it is one that you cannot relive. Hiring a wedding planner can definitely take your stress away to help you enjoy your engagement and wedding day.

2) Outdoor weddings- Outdoor weddings can be very beautiful however, the weather might not be ideal. If you are planning an outdoor wedding I would suggest that you provide a fan for your guests. Even a program for the ceremony could easily double as a fan. Adding a handle to the program is a great way to hint to your guests that it is appropriate to use the program as a fan. If you expect your guests to sit in the warm weather, providing glasses of water or a refreshing cocktail as they walk into the ceremony will keep them from complaining about the heat. They will greatly appreciate it.

3) Personalize- This is YOUR wedding. Of course everyone will know who’s wedding they are attending, however adding pictures of you and your groom is a great idea whether your décor is elaborate or simple. Even on a low budget finding cheap frames is easy and they don’t even have to all be the same. Adding a few pictures to the cake table, escort card table, or even the bar, adds some personal touches to the reception room, guests will love looking at all of the pictures. If you or your groom have a favorite type of food, dessert, or drink you should serve it because it is all about you.

4) Wedding party- chose the people who you are closest to you and will be there for you throughout planning, the wedding day, and marriage. The people you choose should understand this wedding is not about them and should not cause you any extra stress of drama. For the ceremony line up the wedding party in order of who you would want closest to you for support. Do not worry about hurting anyone’s feelings about order, they should be happy for you and honored to be in the wedding party regardless.

5) Eat- Having a good breakfast and lunch is important on your wedding day. Often nerves will get to you and you will not be hungry, but having some protein to help get you through the day will give you energy and make you feel better. Have someone in your wedding party pack a cooler of water bottles and snacks to share.

Me & Shelby!!

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How to Beat the Heat at Your Summer Wedding

Posted on September 11th, 2012 by LaDawn

Summer is the most popular time to get married. 90% of my weddings happen between May – September!. But, just like brides that get married in the winter have to plan for storms, rain and the chilly weather, brides in the summer months should also be conscience of the HOT weather when planning their summer wedding! We have had some scorching hot days the last couple of weeks and I want you to have a plan just in case your wedding day falls during a heat wave.

In California we can get some really hot summers days so below are a few tips and ideas to help you and your guests beat the heat for your summer wedding.

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Tip #1: Try and have the ceremony and reception indoors if the facility has central air-conditioning (not such a good idea if they don’t).

Tip #2: If you are having any part of your wedding outside in the summer heat, try and schedule your start time for the late afternoon or early evening. If at all possible do not schedule a start time for 12pm-3pm (hottest time of the day). Think about a sunset wedding or a nighttime wedding!

Tip #3: If there is no natural shade available consider renting a tent. If a tent isn’t in your budget, consider offering Paper Fans that can double as your program, Parasols or Market Umbrellas to help keep your guests cool.

Tip #4: Schedule your event close to the coast, it’s usually 5-10 degrees cooler than inland.

Tip #5: Make sure to provide plenty of non-alcoholic beverages to keep your guests hydrated (alcohol is dehydrating). If your ceremony is outside, try and have a complimentary water station set-up or provide personalized water bottles.

Tip #6: Skip the formal black tuxedo’s and try and have your bridesmaids in a breathable fabric, cocktail length if possible. If you have long hair, consider wearing your hair up!

Most of the time, the weather is that one thing on wedding day we can not predict in advance during your wedding planning. However, you can plan for it. Always keep a “B” plan in your wedding planning and budget in case of weather problems. Always ask your venue what they offer in case of extreme heat or rain.

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