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We Likey: Madonna & Co.

Madonna and Co fashion clothing boutique

 

Looking for something unique for your upcoming holiday social events?  Madonna & Co. has unique items that will make you the star of the room.  Featuring luxury items that range from edgy to ultra feminine, their items appeal to everyone who wants to add unique styles to their wardrobes.

luxury lace leather clothes fashion design madonna

Featuring fur scarves, capelets and an intriguing mix of lace, leather and prints, Madonna & Co. utilizes fashion forward pieces through texture, color and a stunning appreciation for the feminine form.  I simply adore this lace dress– it would be perfect for a wedding rehearsal dinner, while the leather skirt is perfect for a Girls Night Out.

Lace dress leopard dress

 

Madonnaandco

The Madonna & Co. Vintage  NYC boutique is located the heart of SOHO at 284 Lafayette Street. Want to shop online?  Use code BLOG2 for some of your favorite pieces at a 15% off discount.  Keep up with them on Instagram, Pinterest, Facebook and Twitter.

 

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do you need to seat everyone for your wedding? Cocktail wedding reception event party
Feb 26 2013

How to Have an Awesome Cocktail Style Reception

 

 

I’ve been talking to a few colleagues about this growing trend of brides wanting to do a cocktail style reception, yet having very heavy “buffets” that could be classified as a full meal instead of great hors d’oeuvres known as small plates.  We all came to the agreement that some couples unknowingly do their guests a disservice and  “if they have feet, they need a seat

Cocktail Style Reception ideas Photo by Harwell Photography

Photo by Harwell Photography

While I know there are differing opinions on this, but let’s consider the following:

•  If your food requires heavy dinner plates, it’s not necessarily a cocktail style reception, and a table should be offered to accommodate your guests.

•  It is absolutely horrid for guests to arrive at a reception without a seating chart or enough seating.  From someone who sees this a lot– they are very confused and at times frustrated.  From guests who want to sit together may find a table that lacks enough chairs to accommodate their party to being stuck  in an undesirable area that is far away from all the action.  Confusion grows deeper as it is not clearly communicated as to exactly whom is entitled to have one of the coveted tables. People get up and lose their seats which can be even more frustrating.

•  A lot of brides say, “We don’t need seating for every one because… my friends are young” or “they’ll be too busy dancing!” or “I don’t want it to be too formal”.  No one stands the entire time while drinking and dancing at some of the hottest clubs in Hollywood.  Why would you expect them to at your wedding, where they are expected to be treated as guests.  Expecting guests to stand for four hours is unrealistic.

•  It is extremely hard for some guests to juggle a plate of food, drinks, purse and whatever else they are trying to carry and enjoy themselves.  If most of the seated tables and cocktail tables are full, you have guests standing in open spaces trying to find a respite.  With non-wedding cocktail parties, this can work to an advantage, because not everyone is eating at the same time. People may be mingling, dancing, or participating in some other activity. With a wedding, most of your guests will be doing the same thing at the same time.  Be prepared for some guests to leave early.

Wedding Planning Advice Tips Ideas

To be clear, I’m not against cocktail receptions– I think they’re gorgeous, fun and allow for more mingling.  Most cocktail receptions, while lacking formal seating, does offer rest/lounge areas for their guests.  Brides believe that if their venue is small and they overinvite, they can switch to this style seating, under the premise of “not everyone needs a seat”.  A formal seat, no– not necessarily.  Somewhere to sit, absolutely. Here’s how to make it fabulous, but still with the vibrant cocktail party type atmosphere you want:

• You should have tables for at least 75% of your guest list.  You are not just limited full five and six foot tables. Incorporate a mix of different table sizes like cocktail tables, bistro tables  and even a banquet table or two to mix it up.  Offer a few with chairs and stools to give those a break if they need it.

Cocktail Style Reception Ideas

Cocktail Style Reception Seating Ideas

• If you don’t offer seating for everyone, then offer a lounge area where people can still relax, regroup and enjoy a cocktail and food.  Rent lounge furniture or incorporate furniture from your venue.  Make it your own by bringing in your own cushions and centerpieces to complement their furniture.

Wedding Lounge for Cocktail Style Reception

Wedding Lounge for Cocktail Style Reception

Outdoor Wedding Lounge for Cocktail Style Reception Ideas

• Don’t let this become a money issue.  Your guests would probably enjoy being comfortable more than a welcome bag or favor.  When we ask most of our couples what is most important to them on their wedding day, they say, “good food, good music and for everyone to have a good time”.  It can be hard to enjoy the good food from the five star caterer you hired or enjoy the smooth crooning of your 10 piece band if your guests are uncomfortable and frustrated.

•  Have a cocktail style reception because you want to. Not because you have to.  If your space dictates that only a certain amount of people can fit in your venue, be prepared to make the sacrifice.  With cocktail receptions, space and food are major issues.  You need enough room for people to flow in and out of the space comfortably, not spilling out and displaced.  You may have to sacrifice on the full dinner you wanted or cut your guest list down.  If you make the sacrifice, you still have many hearty options available to serve to your guests without them going away hungry.

Mini Burger Mini Grilled Cheese Mini Beer for Cocktail Hour Reception

Mini Fried Chicken and Coke Hors D'oeuvres Cocktail Hour Reception Corn and Crab Salad Hors D'oeuvres Cocktail Hour Reception

• Be sure there is something to do to keep people active and happy.  Naturally, you have your dance floor and your bar.  Some sort of table or seat will keep them busy and give them a place to keep their belongings, but get them to be interactive with games, a photo or video booth, a dessert or popcorn bar  or even a tour of your venue.  The more people have to do, the less they are standing in one spot.

Custom Cornhole for Weddings

Photo by Anna Pociask Photography

Chocolate Dessert Bar for Wedding

Photobooth for Weddings

Take Me Away Tuesday: Copamarina

The Copamarinais a beautiful property in Puerto Rico– it’s the perfect retreat for adventurous honeymooners that is off-the-beaten path, budget-friendly destination.  The 20-acre landscaped tropical resort fronting the Caribbean Sea, offers a peaceful, relaxed atmosphere where couples can enjoy a secluded and authentic taste of Puerto Rico.  An hour and half outside of San Juan, situated in the seaside town of Guánica, Copamarina offers affordable rates, and is the first and only property in Puerto Rico to offer an all-inclusive package.

copamarina-beach-resort-guanica-puerto-rico-spa-at-the-beach

The property features the renowned Bodyderm Spa specializing in massages and body treatments, two on-site restaurants (including Alexandra, the internationally-acclaimed seafood restaurant), several swimming pools, a variety of water sports and recreational activities and nearby attractions including the Dry Forest Reserve.

You’ll be close by to visit some of the local favorites such as the Ponce Museum, the lush Gilligan’s Island, the breathtaking Bioluminescent Bay as well as some scenic diving and other watersports. For those who consider themselves foodies, you’ll be enamored with culinary events that the resort holds featuring some of the world’s finest chefs and techniques.

Room rates start $190/night for a Deluxe Garden and $110 per person per night for the all-inclusive package.

Contact our travel concierge to learn more or to book the Copamarina!

Fashion Monday: Dressing for the Honeymoon

Honeymoon Attire Ideas

 

Your honeymoon is a wonderful part of your life to make memories, get closer to your honey and explore a far off place together.  Naturally, you’ll want to look amazing for all the pictures that you’ll take.  Here are some gorgeous pieces to inspire you, no matter where you’re going!

 

Fashion Monday: E!’s Live from the Red Carpet Shoe Line

If you love watching the Red Carpet Shows to get your dose of glamour, fashion and face beatings (translation: gorgeous makeup), you will be overjoyed to know that the E! Network has teamed with Anavel Caparros to create the E! Live From the Red Carpet Shoe Collection.  The stylish line of high heels is now available at Macy’s, Lord + Taylor, LordandTaylor.com, and will debut at Von Maur on May 8th.

After the stunning success of Adrianna Papell E! Live from the Red Carpet  evening gown collection, as well as the Stila E! Live from the Red Carpet cosmetics line, the shoe industry is now taking everyone by storm and no prisoners.  This new addition to the E! Live from the Red Carpet brand will provide fashionistas the perfect accessory to complete their own red carpet looks.

To view more from this delicious collection, visit the Red Carpet section of E!’s website.

Bring Coachella to Your Next Event

So you’re tired of the same old dinner party, the same routine wedding festivities, the humdrum of birthday parties, right?  There is no need to get down– take some inspiration from this year’s Coachella Festival.  If you haven’t heard about Coachella ( how could you escape it this year when they basically “resurrected” Tupac for a “live” hologram concert performance), we’ll give you the skinny:  it’s a three day long annual music and arts festival in the Coachella Valley.  It’s frequented by some of the biggest names in the entertainment and fashion industry with performances, exhibits and parties throughout the sprawling desert backdrop.

Each year, it seems Coachella gets better and better (cue another mention of the amazing Tupac performance).  All of the artists, performers and brands really bring it for this weekend.  There were some great ideas that could translate nicely for your next event.  Take a look:

Armani TMobile at Coachella

Several people enjoyed the Armani Exchange and TMobile Carnival Party.  We’ve posted before about getting your Coney Island on with your event— be it with food and drink or decor and details.  The most important thing with having a theme is to remain authentic  to the details and your personality.  Basically, “skip the cheese, go for the meat“.  Don’t go for the ultra cheesy details, but be authentic as possible.

Uplighting at Coachella

Lighting is ridiculously awesome.  It can transform any space into something dramatic and exciting.  The key to incorporating good lighting is your base– look at your area’s walls, floors, etc.   Make sure your lighting has something to reflect off of to create striking pillars or soft washes of colors.

Pool Parties at Coachella

If you’ve got a pool at your next party, don’t neglect it! Incorporate it in your party.  The open air atmosphere can add so much to your event.  Create custom cabanas by having personalized pillows with your pictures, monograms, colors or wedding logo. This gives your guests a great place to find respite or catch up on conversation.  Your pool can be a well designed focal point as we shared with The Braxton Premiere Party.

What would you inspires you from Coachella?

 

We Likey: Esti Exclusiv Rose Moscato

Rose Moscato Wine

Are you  a fan of the sweet dessert wine, Moscato?  If so, you are going to love Esti Exclusiv’s Rose Moscato.  We had the opportunity to try this out with a get together at our home and it was a hit with everyone!  Even my husband who isn’t a fan of sparkling wines adored it.  While it is crisp, its sweet, yet smooth undertones and fruity aroma are very enjoyable.  We are die hard Moscato fans in our house— and have had some hit and misses, but this is definitely a hit and has earned itself a permanent spot in our home for entertaining.  I do believe you’ll enjoy this silky, rich Muscat wine, too! 

Must Have Hors D’oeuvres for 2012

There are so many trends that are set for events and entertaining in 2012.  These can easily become  staple and conversation piece for your next party or cocktail hour.  Serving as a precursor as to what is to come with your full menu– you can feel free to experiment, go bold, build anticipation, incorporate your favorite staples and basically anything your heart (and stomach) desires.

Just like with fashion and music, the trends ebb and flow with popular demand. If you are looking to try something new and exciting, here are some great ideas!

Southern Foods are Still a Huge Hit:
It’s just something about Southern food that adds a special soulfulness to your menu.  Although, not the healthiest food– you can make some alternative selections in your ingredients and still keep the great flavors that you’ve come to love.

Baked Bacon Wrapped Green Beans with butter, brown sugar, and garlic mixture.

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Stuffed New Potatoes

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Go Mobile
If you are having a cocktail hour at your wedding or you want your guests to be able to move around your home, being stuck with cumbersome food can put an early damper on the mood.  But that doesn’t mean you have to resign yourself to chips and dip.  Some of the flavors and textures that have become a favorite at your sit down meals are available on the go.

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Grape and Bacon Goat Cheese Pops

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Mini colorful soup shooters

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Turkish salads in a tumbler

Clean and Healthy Food Choices Don’t Have to Be Boring:
As guests become more health conscious with their choices– either being vegan, vegetarian, on a raw diet or choosing to avoid fatty or fried foods, having fresh, clean alternatives doesn’t just mean a veggie tray.  You can get your gourmet on with your vegetable offerings.

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Cucumber feta boats

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French onion soup mushrooms

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A great alternative to the veggie tray!

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A PF Chang-esque interpretation of Chicken Lettuce Wraps

Comfort Foods are Still a Huge Hit:
One of the biggest fear of going to an event is wondering if you’ll like the food there. Offering a gourmet take on your favorite comfort foods are sure to be a hit.  Think of foods that you loved when you were a kid or ones that are you “go to” foods when you want to get in a good mood, scale them down and serve them up!

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Mini Grilled Cheese Sandwiches with Tomato Soup

mini party appetizersDelicious Mac and Cheese Bites

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Ham and cheese sliders

Explore Different Cultures
Looking for something to exotic to incorporate into your menu or break the monotony, don’t be afraid to look to other cultures for inspiration.  They can at vibrancy of color, bursts of flavor and a great conversation piece.  Choose something you’ve had before and can gauge how it should taste– plus, you can share why it’s your favorite and if you’ve traveled to the native area.

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Skewered cheese tortellini with pesto dip

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Mini Tacos with Tequila

asian pot sticker for party wedding appetizers

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Asian Pot Stickers

What are some things you are looking forward to trying or are your favorites?