Before & After

When it comes to changing the look of a venue, there are many different avenues you can take. You can bring in floral centerpieces. You can put out different linens, add chair covers. You have many options!

One option that has become more popular of late is lighting. I am a HUGE fan of lighting. You really can change up a room by the addition of uplights! I once did a wedding in a windowless ballroom with ugly chandeliers - we turned off the overhead lights and used a lighting company to make that room absolutely magical! As you can see, the monogrammed gobo on the dance floor also added to the overall impression. Of course, the use of candles everywhere certainly added to the feel!

I recently did an event (not a wedding) in the basement of a church. As you can see, the basement was a typical basement, complete with columns! With the aid of a lighting company, I piped and draped the room and added lights, rental tables & chairs -- and the room was totally transformed! Every 20 minutes or so, the computer-controlled lights changed color, and added the perfect compliment to the exciting mood. So, be creative with your space and SERIOUSLY consider using lighting to add that WOW factor to your upcoming wedding celebration!!

Until next time, happy planning...

Congratulations to Vivian and Luis!

On May 2nd, Vivian and Luis celebrated their wedding at St. Michael's Catholic Church in Union, followed by their reception at The Manor in West Orange. Even though it was early May, it was a very hot day - but the dance floor was even hotter! With music provided by Diamond Productions, Angel had everyone on the floor all night! What a great time!!

When I think back about Vivian and Luis's wedding, all I remember is the love they share and their family and friends who celebrated with them. Usually, there are "little challenges" that happen throughout a wedding day - and the weather certainly was one of those "little challenges" - but we, at Bride Ideas, did everything we could to make the day run smoothly. And gave the bridal party lots of water!!

The bride's parents are deaf, as were many of the guests, so we had an interpreter sign the major parts of the wedding and reception. What a wonderful way to include everyone on the festivities!!

So, when you're planning your wedding, remember the special touches that personalize your day. Cupcake favors on the way out the door... Interpreters, or bilingual ceremony programs... Special photos taken with far away guests... Meaningful songs to fill the dance floor...

Until next time, happy planning...