Sure steps to figuring out your seating plan

photo credit: t-fairygodmotherofweddings.tumblr.com

Though seating plans are not yet a major tradition in Trinidad and Tobago, for a wedding larger than a small informal reception a seating plan will make all the difference between chaos and almost certainly helping your reception run more smoothly.

Benefits of having a seating Plan 

One of the definite benefits of having a seating plan is saving your guests the heartache of trying to find a seat with their family and friends. Additionally you get the opportunity to ensure that your guests are seated where they will be at their happiest before the wedding actually begins. You definitely wont have time to address issues with seating during your wedding. And when in doubt there is always the mantra of happy guests equals a happy couple.

When to start planning your seating 

photo credit: Confetti, Ireland's sassiest classiest bridal site

As soon as you have your guest list completed you should start thinking of your seating plan. Begin by conducting a site visit specific to addressing your layout. Get come feedback from the venue coordinator about the best seating arrangements for the number of guests you are expecting. Then you can go back to the drawing board and create your own plan.

Identify the areas for reserved seating and general seating. You should also indicate the locations for your stage, DJ and speakers, buffet tables and guest signing or entrance layout.

Tools you may need 

You will need a large pad or sheet of Bristol board, lots of pencils, some post its and a lot of patience as there definitely will be numerous revisions to the initial plan. Be prepared for that, and do not be discouraged. If you are technology savvy, spare the paper and the headache and use Microsoft Excel or an online wedding seating plan. Here is a free online plan that is very useful Wedding Wire seating chart tool

photo credit: tietheknot.co.za

Seating Singles 

Rule of thumb, never have a table dedicated to singles, its very awkward for the persons who are single. It is always better to mix it up and give people the chance to mingle. Singles should be seated among couples and families. But remember seating someone at a table where they know no-one is a no no.

Bickering Family 

photo credit: carol-miller-designs.wordpress.com

There is always a point of contention where a many are gathered. Please do not have misconceptions that seating two or more persons who may not have agreed in the past will be willing to be civil for one day. Always be realistic about what can happen. 

Identifying Tables 

There are various ways of simplifying the task of locating your table. Traditionally there is the number system... but that's so boring :). Why not try naming your table according to your theme. Make it a fun task where you and your fiance or your girl friends can come up with name that relates to your theme but are totally reflective of your personality. 

Things to keep in mind 

• it proves helpful to have a list of persons assigned to a table rather than assigning them to seats as this allows for mingling. 
• Elderly persons or persons with hearing problems probably wont enjoy seating next to the speakers. 
• Do not sit the elderly with very young children 
• Pregnant women may prefer being close to the bathrooms 
• Divorced persons should not be seated with their former spouses.
• Disabled persons will need appropriate access and accommodations 
• Assign a table where your wedding service providers can eat and rest. It does not have to be among your guest tables. 
• Have an extra table for last minute RSVPs
• Have a seating table at the entrance along with a responsible person to help guests locate their names 
• Mix both sides of the new family so that everyone gets to know each other 

Transition from church to sexy reception dress with one gown

"Edwina by www.sotteroandmidgley.com

So, I have started scouting designer trends for 2013 and i have seen some really fabulous gowns, including one that went from floor length to sexy tube dress by a simple detachment. But in my search I came across this 2012 dress that absolutely caught my eye. I will classify it as simple elegance with the options of conservative and soft elegance all in one.

I fell in love with a dress, yes I did. It provides two different looks, a conservative look that is very adequate for a church wedding. And for the bride who wants to kick back at her reception with a sexy neckline, she certainly can.

Let me introduce you to Chelsa, designed by Maggie Sottero

Description

Lace on Point d'Esprit, vintage inspired copelet provides couture panache to this classic lace silhouette. a detachable grosgrain belt with Swarovski crystal embellishment adds a radiant richness to the natural waist. fitted sheath with scalloped neckline finished with corset closure.

Its available in White/White belt, White/Black Belt, Ivory/Ivory Belt, Ivory/Black belt

Available at

Another great point is that it is available in Trinidad and Tobago. Sottero and Midgeley gowns are available at

Brides and Grooms, 

Maraval, 

Port of Spain,

 they can be contacted at (868) 310-0250 

OR 

VS Fashions 

Frederick Street, 

Port of Spain 

(868) 624-5992

HAPPY SHOPPING

Litisha

"What to do first" How to plan your wedding without breaking the bank Vol 1

This is the first in the series "What to do first". 

We all know the excitement that comes with the idea of planning your wedding. We brides tend to look at all the fun stuff such as dress, decor, visuals and finding the perfect location to say "I do" to the man we love. 


Sorry, but I must bring you back to reality, and fast. This series helps you to put into perspective the first things that should be done to start the planning process. I will walk you through all areas in this five part series which will include your budget, guest count, location, style season/time of day. 


Today we are tackling the big one, the daunting task of balancing your style with your pocket putting into perspective what you can actually afford. In these tough economic times we are all trying to save a buck where ever possible, follow these tips to keep yourself from breaking your bank. 


Identify your guest count and stick to it.
I know it sound harsh, and for some this will be a very hard task especially in Trinidad and Tobago, where everybody knows everyone, but do you really need to invite all these people to your wedding. A good tip is to invite only your close family and friends. Because of how daunting this task is there is a whole segment dedicated to it :)


Serve a signature drink.
Instead of an open bar with every brand of liquor you can think about, serve one or two signature cocktails. This will allow you to control the bar budget, you can also choose to serve wine and soft drinks only. (No I am not crazy)


Ask for help 
Don't be afraid to ask for a helping hand. I am not talking about cash favors, but your relatives and friends may be able to assist in more ways than your thought. Does your Auntie have great skills baking, she might be able to assist with the deserts as a wedding gift to you. Maybe some of your friends can assist with a DIY project, make it into a "girls lime" and get the job done. (for my international readers liming is our local slang for hanging out). But I am sure you get the picture, the possibilities are endless. 


Hire a Wedding Planner
While many couples are fine with planning their own wedding, in some cases it makes perfect sense to hire a wedding planner. A good wedding planner, though charging a fee of their own can knock off thousands off your wedding budget. I will expand on this topic in another post. 

Last and by no means least of all - DO THE MATH. In order to stay within boundaries you have to actually set a budget. identify how much you are willing to spend in total. Once you have set a cap on spending evaluate your priorities. It's always helpful to have a budgeting tool to track your spending. Please remember to set a 10% buffer, miscellaneous, unexpected expenses, what ever you want to call it, it is always there. Trust me no matter how precise you think your figures are there is always the unexpected. As my favorite and top wedding planner, David Tutera, would say 8 to 10 couples go over their budget. don't be in the 8 be in the 2 and have that 10% buffer. Feel free to contact for a copy of my budget spreadsheet to guide you along.


Happy Planning 


Litisha 

Did you enjoy these tips, 

I will love to have your feedback and comments below. 

Why Visit Trinidad and Tobago

A wonderful look at what my beautiful islands have to offer. I am sorry I just can't live anywhere else, take a look 

This video is a promotional video produced by the Tourism Development Company of Trinidad and Tobago. 


Call your travel agent today to book your trip. For Wedding Plans you can contact us at LHT Emerge Events and Wedding Planning or contact us via our webpage

Wedding Colors 2012

New York Fashion Week is over and I am super excited about the color trends for 2012. I can definitely see these colors reflected in weddings. For all of you who have no clue of what I am speaking of, have no fear we are definitely going to provide you with Pantone's recommended colors for Spring via their Fashion Color Report, Spring 2012.

Tangerine Tango Pantone 17-1463

Acclaimed as the provocative color of the palette, by the name alone it surely conjures passion as is associated with the dance "The Tango". It is a juicy orange color and is sure to liven up your wedding decor if this is in your palette.  

Solar Power Pantone 13-0759

This is another energizing color in the 2012 palette and is sure to radiate some warmth throughout your wedding event. 

Bell Flower Pantone 18-3628

From the family of Purple, in Pantone's own words this fanciful color exudes uniqueness and creativity. 

Cabaret Pantone 18-2140

For the ladies who love the pink hues, this tone is just for you. Cabaret has been deemed to be the sensual color of the lot. I am sure your bridesmaids would love to be seen in these colors. 

Sodalite Blue 19-3953

Sodalite Blue is a classic hue that has definitely stood out as color that works well with every color on the palette. 

Cockatoo Pantone 14-5420

This is a blue-green shade and lends a whimsical touch to the color palette. Is this the new turquoise? I still think some of our brides are carrying turquoise into 2012. 

Margarita Pantone 14-0116

a yellow-green color, Pantone has declared this color to provide a refreshing and stimulating glow, reminiscent of a blossoming garden. more so, it definitely captures the color of margarita, the drink. (hint, hint signature drink at reception to compliment this color)

Sweet Lilac Pantone 14-2808

This delicate pinkish lilac adds a touch of romance to your bridal decor. 

Driftwood Pantone 18-1210

A blend of beige and grey, this shade is definitely very neutral in texture. 

Starfish Pantone 16-1120

This is another neutral tone that works well when combined with all the other colors in the palette. 

In the weeks to come I will be playing with color combinations for these colors and producing some inspiration boards for you guys. They will be posted on my facebook and on my website, be sure to check them out. 

Tips on giving wedding toasts without boring your guests

The Wedding toast segment of your wedding reception is usually the segment that both guests and bridal party wish they can get over with quickly so they can get on with the party. Here are some tips to keep your guests engaged and to assist your bridal party in delivering a great toast. 

1. You must plan ahead 

It is wise to develop your schedule of toasts and inform those who you will like to say some words well in advance. This allows the relevant persons the time to prepare what they will like to say and avoids the possibility of stammering, silence and plain old awkwardness if they don't have anything to say. This schedule should be passed on to your master of ceremonies so that he can queue people on and off the microphone and keep things fluent. 

2. Please, limit the amount of people giving toasts

Your wedding is a celebration, yes toasts is a major part of that because this is when people get to give you their well wishes etc. but too much can become monotonous and boring. If your wedding may have many guests wishing to give you kind words etc a great suggestion is to have a Guest Note Cage. You can provide  note paper at a special table with this cage, where guests can leave you comments or well wishes. Another suggestion is to have a confessional, yes a confessional lol. Set up an area with a video camera where guests can give you live well wishes, which is recorded and compiled as part of your wedding video. How cool is that? 

3. Schedule the Toasts for a time that best suits your wedding 

In Trinidad and Tobago Most people tend to give their toast before the serving of the meal at the beginning of the reception. I have seen a few weddings where the food was served first and then the toasting took place when everyone was fed. It all depends on the time of day your wedding is held. For those preferring to have the toasts before meals may I suggest having a hors d'eouvres served as a prelude to the toasting so that your guests won't be restless or worst hungry during your toasting segment. The goal is to have your guests comfortable so that they can enjoy every bit of your wedding. 

4. What should I Toast with? 

Tradition says that you should toast with champagne or any other sparkling wine. But with that said, you can always personalize with having either your signature drink or other special drink for your toasts. Please, make sure its not water :). 

5. What should I say? 

For those of you given the honor to say a few words on behalf of the bride or groom, keep it short, your toast should not go over three minutes in length. Jot down some key words so you know the areas you will like to touch on. This helps not only to keep you calm but to keep from going blank. And most of all speak from the heart. You can offer personal advice, inspiration quotes, a sentimental song lyric what ever holds true to the message you would like to give to the couple. 

And finally raise your glass and take a sip. 

HAPPY PLANNING 

For further information and advice on planning your wedding please feel free to contact us 

via phone (868) 328-5061, email lhtemerge@gmail.com 

or visit our website at http://www.lhtemergeevents.com 

Caribbean (Trinidad and Tobago) Carnival Themed Wedding

In the quest to broaden our services to the destination weddings market, one of our packages will offer a Carnival themed wedding. Why? Carnival is a festival very indigenous to Trinidad and Tobago, and is highlighted as one you must experience. Therefore, if you cannot make it to carnival why not bring carnival to you and your close family and friends without the negatives and all of the positives. Highlighting beauty, creativity and color that is synonymous with the Caribbean.

Here are some ideas for the couple wanting to create their own Caribbean Carnival Themed wedding.

THE DRESSES
Ladies, I know the first thing you will want to think about is what are you going to wear? Here are options for your bridal gown and the reception gown.

 This wedding dress gives all the flair that our costuming is about the birdcage head piece is ideal to complete your Caribbean Carnival look as it lends intrigue to the personality of the bride.
If you are stepping out Caribbean you must have that second dress that brings out "the sexy", I love the pica-boo effect of the blue in the skirt of this dress still tying you into the color scheme of your wedding.

 Photo Courtesy alibaba.com

THE DECOR

 Another major focal point will be your decor. Your guests will come expecting to see how you incorporate this festival into your wedding while maintaining the elegance required for a wedding. Yes you want to maintain an elegant wedding and it can be achieved with this theme.

Many critics have dubbed our modern day carnival costumes as bikini, beads and feathers. We cant have the bikini but why not incorporate the beads and the feathers into the decor. This feathered centerpiece is very trendy in the overall wedding decor market. As seen in the photo the ambiance created with the right lighting is phenomenal. 

To give an additional touch the table numbers can be held by tall stands adorned with masks such as the picture below.

iridescent beads can be used to drape along the vase of the centerpiece to add a beaded effect.

On the tables as both your favor and the place card holder we can use these picture framed, chair favors to complete the Caribbean look.

 THE CAKE

Your cake will bring in the Caribbean flavor of your wedding, without the carnival.

This option is very detailed with the working on the design, and will provide a very elegant touch to the wedding.

This design can be traditional Caribbean with sea shells such as the cake on the right or can be representative of exotic flowers easily found in our flora and fauna as the cake on the left.

THE PHOTO BOOTH

We absolutely cannot have a carnival theme without the masquerader.

Why not incorporate it into a photo booth. Your guests will love the idea of having the opportunity to take pictures one on one with a beautiful costume. As an added touch these pictures can be printed and sent to you guests in their thank you card so they can have an additional souvenir reminding them of your unique wedding and the unique experience they had in Trinidad and Tobago. Who knows, they may also want to experience what the festival is about and come back to visit our Islands.

There is a world of ideas out there, waiting to be found and explored.

HAPPY PLANNING 

for further information on planning and coordinating your Tobago wedding feel free to call (868) 328-5061, email lhtemerge@gmail.com or visit our website at www.lhtemergeevents.com