Sample Sale of the Year!!!

photo via weddingbee.com

Fashionista brides rejoice: Glamour Closet is holding the "Sample Sale of the Year!" This weekend (December 19-20), all designer sample wedding gowns are on sale for $499, $999, or $1499. That's a whopping savings of up to 85% off! This is your chance to score a dress from premier designers including Monique Lhuillier, Pronovias, Reem Acra and many more.

Sample Sale Details:
Saturday, December 19, 2009 (9am – 5pm)
Sunday, December 20, 2009 (10am – 3pm)

Glamour Closet Los Angeles
324 South La Brea Avenue (cross street: West 3rd Street)
Los Angeles, CA 90036
Tel: 323-938-2000

For more info, visit the Glamour Closet website. The lines are expected to be long, so be sure to arrive early, as it is first come, first serve. Happy Shopping!!!

Fab Find Friday: Guestbook Boxes

This afternoon while strolling the 'Net, I came across these fab Guestbook Boxes by Cut the Cake Designs. When it comes to planning an event, I love to find fresh, new ideas to present to my clients. These guestbook boxes present a unique twist on the traditional guestbook. As an added bonus: They can be customized to coordinate with your event's theme/color!

For more information, check out the Cut the Cake by Tara Lee etsy store. Happy Friday!!!

Fab Find Friday: Two Birds Bridesmaids

I decided to start a weekly feature on the blog, titled Fab Find Friday, where I will showcase some of the fabulous steals, deals, and ideas that I come across in the wedding world each week. What better way is there to end a long and often hectic work week than to find a great bargain or new idea for your wedding, right?! I know...I'm excited too! So let's get the ball rolling with this week's Fab Find: Two Birds Bridesmaids Dresses!

So, I was up late the other night watching the Style Network's My Fair Wedding with David Tutera. He absolutely HATED her choice in bridesmaids dresses, mostly because the fit was sooo unflattering. Solution: Two Birds Bridesmaids Dresses. These awesome convertible dresses come in several different styles and colors and can tied in different variations to create the most flattering look for each body type. The best part is, because the dress can be converted into different styles, it can be worn again and again! Gone are the days of having to buy an expensive dress that will sit in the closet collecting dust, waiting on an opportunity to see the light of day again. The downside: the price! Ranging from $270 - $395, it's pretty darn pricey. But when you factor in the amount of use you'll get from this one dress, it might just be worth the price!

As a bridesmaid in a friend's upcoming wedding, I can sum up my own personal experience with dress shopping in one word: FRUSTRATING. Myself and the other girls are very different in size, so finding ONE dress that would flatter all of our body types was definitely a challenge. Then we decided to stick to the color scheme and length designated by the bride and each choose a style that we thought would compliment our body type. In the end, that was the best option, but had I discovered Two Birds Bridesmaids dresses before we purchased our gowns, I think the girls and I would have made a $270 investment to save a whole lot of time and aggravation!

For more information on this fabulosity, check out the website http://www.twobirdsbridesmaid.com/. It features lots of photos, a how-to section, and ordering info (sorry my Cali lovelies...they're in NY).

Stay tuned for another Fab Find next week...

Ten Money-Saving Tips For Your Wedding

Let's face it: times are hard, and with the average cost of a wedding nearing the $30,000 mark (not including the engagement ring or honeymoon), it's no wonder couples everywhere are trying to figure out ways to save money when it comes to planning their big day. With the state of the current economy, many vendors are lowering their prices and offering deep discounts on many of their services. However, if you are still fretting over the looming price tag of your pending nuptials, try one, or several of the following tried and true money-saving tips to help keep you out of the poor house after the wedding:

1. Slash the Guestlist - By trimming the guest list, you will significantly reduce catering costs, as well as cut down on the cost of invitations, centerpieces, rentals, etc.

2. Shop Sample Sales - You may be able to score a designer gown at a fraction of the cost.

3. Weekday/Off-Peak Wedding - Saturday is the most popular and most expensive day to hold a wedding. Many venues offer a much cheaper rate for choosing a weekday or Sunday date. Discounts are also usually available during off peak season (Nov-Mar).

4. DIY- If you're not afraid to get your hands dirty, you possess a creative bone in your body, and if time permits, be a do-it-yourself diva and take on a few wedding-related projects.

5. Ditch the Open Bar - Open bars can be super pricey. Instead, opt to serve beer, wine, and one signature drink.

6. Choose flowers that are in Season: Your florist should be able to work with you to find an inexpensive alternative to a flower that may be out of season.

7. Choose a non-floral centerpiece: Candles? Fruit? Faux Feathers? Oh, the possibilities are endless...don't limit yourself.

8. Single Location: Hold the ceremony and reception in one location. This eliminates a second site fee and cuts out travel costs imposed by vendors (and your guests will thank-you for eliminating extra work and driving for them!).

9. Daytime Reception: Lunch prices are usually much less than dinner since it is based on smaller portion sizes, and less alcohol is usually consumed during the day.

10. Limit Courses: Simply put: less courses=less money spent.

I hope these tips are helpful when you begin the exciting journey of planning the biggest day of your life. Remember, you'll want to have money left over for the honeymoon!

Bridal Emergency Kit: Don't Leave Home Without It!

photo source: www.msandmrs.com

No matter how much careful planning is done, there is always a chance that an unforeseen occurence can come up on your wedding day: a stain on your gown, a pounding headache that will not go away, or (gasp!) in all your haste to make it to the ceremony on time, you realize, just as you're stepping out of the limo, you forgot to put on deoderant!!! But if you come prepared, those last minute issues that arise doesn't always have to spell D-I-S-A-S-T-E-R. That is where a Bridal Emrgecy Kit comes in handy. Equipped with any and everything you can think of to rescue you from life's unfortunate happenings, this little baby is a must-have on your wedding day.

A smart wedding planner will always have one on hand...and if you're planning and executing your big day on your own, one of the best decisions you could make would be to prepare an emeregency kit.

Here is what's in mine:

- Safety Pins
- Bobby Pins
- Elastic Hair Bands
- Comb & Brush
- Hair Spray
- Gel
- Makeup Brushes
- Manicure Kit
- Mini Sewing Kit
- Eyeglass Repair Kit
- Scissors
- Toothbrush & Toothpaste
- Floss
- Breath Mints
- Gum
- Vaseline
- Lotion
- Deoderant
- Visine Eye Wash
- Tampons/Pads
- Advil
- Tylenol
- Alka Seltzer
- Tums
- Day/Nyquil
- Cough Drops
- Razors/Shaving Cream
- Lint Remover
- Tide-To-Go Stain Remover Pen

Platinum Touch Events comes equipped with a Bridal Emergency Kit to every event. It is my experience that at least one, if not many of the items included, will need to be used at some point during the event. The way I see it, it is better to be prepared than to wait for a problem to rear it's ugly head before coming up with a solution!

Don't have time to prepare your own kit? Check out the following links:

http://www.msandmrs.com/

http://www.withyouinmindinc.com/

Happy Planning!

Venue Spotlight: Greystone Estate

Last month, I had the pleasure of coordinating a wedding at the historic national landmark, Greystone Estate. At my first walk-through of this venue, I was absolutely blown away by it's beauty. With it's breathtaking views and unique garden setting, it is a wonderful choice if you are thinking of having an outdoor wedding. There are so many ceremony and reception sites located on the grounds of the mansion (events are held outdoors only) that it's kind of hard to choose just one since they are all equally charming. I personally fell in love with the Formal Gardens, with it's perfectly manicured grass area surrounded by gorgeous white blooms and slated walkways.

As beautiful as this place is, it doesn't come without a price...and that price is the WARDEN that is the City of Beverly Hills. Please be prepared to do your research on all of the rules, regulations, stipulations, can-and-cannot-do's that have been mandated by the city (and trust me, there are a LOT of them!!!). If you make it out alive, there is no way you will not have an amazingly gorgeous wedding. This place really requires minimal or no fancy decor, as it's stylish and natural ambience provides all the refreshing beauty you will need.

The stairway leading to the Inner Courtyard.

Look at the beautiful greenery surrounding the courtyard...simply stunning!

Colorful blooms add to the appeal.

Can you just imagine your bride/groom waiting for you at the end of this aisle?!

Minimal to no fancy decor required!

A view from the outside.

Fresh blooms line the terrace.

Natural beauty and historic charm.

Gorgeous!

All photos courtesy of Toki Cavener Photography.

It's Been A While...

Yes, it has definitely been a while since my last post, but for very good reasons. I have been working on some pretty exciting things for PTE. I am most pleased to announce that after dealing with some pretty shady, and flaky web and graphic designers (can you say take your money then fall off the face of the planet; or see your project all the way to the end, then fall off the face of the planet! SIGH!!!), that the website is live and kicking (http://www.aplatinumtouchevent.com/).

I am still working out the logistics for the PTE Launch Party, am working on a FABULOUS party for THE most adorable soon-to-be two year old twin girls (shameless plug for my lil sweeties Aaliya & Alexis), and a wonderful wedding for a dear friend of mine in January. Needless to say, I have been B-U-S-Y! But I am making it my mission to post more frequently and not neglect you again. Until next time, here are a few cliff hanger photos of PTE couple Josh & Candy's October 12th Wedding (more details and photos coming soon):

All photos courtesy of American Marriage the Movie...check out their Facebook Fan Page for more info on the documentary.

And the winner is...

I've been searching for the perfect venue to host the Platinum Touch Events launch party, and after quite a bit of searching, I think I have found the perfect location: The Custom Hotel. This swanky hotel, once called the Furama, is just minutes away from LAX airport. The party will be held in the Hopscotch Pool Bar & Grill, a sleek lounge area that overlooks the pool deck below. It features four private cabanas, an outdoor firepit, and has a wonderful modern design. Over the next couple of weeks I will be providing full details for the event. Stay tuned!

PTE Update

Hello out there in the blog world!!! No, I haven't forgotten about you, but I've been busy, busy, busy! PTE is getting ready to unveil some BIG projects that are currently in the works. The details for the official PTE launch event are coming soon, as well as glimpses into the other events that are cooking up. I have a lot of info to post, and so little time to do it, but I promise it's coming. You know what they say: Good things come to those who wait! But I promise I won't keep you waiting long.

Wedding Etiquette: Tipping Vendors

The wedding day has arrived, the vendors have set up, and everything looks just the way you envisioned. Only one problem - you have no idea what to tip! While tipping your vendors is not a requirement, it is your gesture of gratitude for a job well done.

Here is a sample of appropriate tip amounts for the vendors that have a hand in making your celebration a hit:

• Banquet Manager - $100-$500(depending on the # of guests)


• Hair, Makeup, & Nails - 15% - 20% of total


• Delivery People - Approx. $10 each


• Officiant - Between $100 - $200


• Caterer/Wait Staff - 15% - 20% of total bill (unless gratuity is already included)


• Parking Attendant/Valet - 15% - 20% of transportation bill


• Coat/Restroom Attendant - $.50 - $1.00 per guest (unless gratuity is already included)


• Entertainment - $20 - $25 per member


• Photographer/Videographer - Optional ($20 - $25 is sufficient)


• Bartender - 10% of total liquor bill

For all other vendors, simply send a thank-you note and letter of recommendation for the excellent service.

A few tips to remember:

• As a general rule, tipping is for employees, not business owners


• The tip amount is usually based on the amount you've spent on that person's service


• Make sure gratuity has not already been included in final bill


• To eliminate the burden and stress of tipping on your wedding day, prepare labeled envelopes with tips inside ahead of time and designate your wedding planner (if you have one) or a trusted indivisual to deliver them.

Source: SDSW Magazine

Awesome Photographer: Joy Marie Photo

Check out these Superhero Engagement images from the wonderful photographer Joy Marie:

Source: Joy Marie Photo

In case you have never heard of her or seen any of her work, I seriously suggest you check her out! I was looking through engagement photos that she shout-absolutely AMAZING. They are so creative and unique...not just your average running on the beach, looking into each other's eyes, etc, etc. These engagement photos actually represent the couple's personality, while showcasing their love for one another. See for yourself, http://www.joymariephoto.com/. You will be impressed.

Wedding Trends: Past, Present, and Future

I was looking through the latest issue of Brides of Southern California magazine for a little inspiration, and I came across an interesting article on wedding trends - from the ideas that are ready to retire to the hot new trends that are soon to catch on. Check out a few trends that made the list to see if you agree:

So 15 minutes ago...

Colored Sashes

Pink/Brown

Damask

Pick-up Skirts

Grab them while they're hot...

Patterned Bridesmaids Dresses

Turquoise/Red

Candy Buffets

Mariachi Bands

The next big thing...

The Wedding Party All in White

Birdcage Veils

Veggie Centerpieces

Gospel Choir @ the Ceremony

Bright Colorful Heels Under the Wedding Gown

A Wedding for Under $1?

Talk about a wedding on a budget! On 9/9/09, deemed the "luckiest day of the century", couples can get married at the Wilshire/Fairfax $.99 Only Store for, you guessed it, only $.99! There will be an ordained minister on the premises to legalize the union, and the wedding decor will consist of items carried in the popular bargain store.

Only a limited number of couples will be able to participate, so if you're interested call (323)881-1247 for all of the details. The last day to signup is Aug 24, 2009.

For all other brides on a budget, if you think you cannot afford a Day of Wedding Coordinator, you are in luck! As a special launch promotion, Platinum Touch Events is offering Day-Of services completely free to the first TWO couples that book me as their day of wedding coordinator.

To qualify for this free promotion, your wedding date must be on or before Sept. 27, 2009.

Services will include the following:

-Free initial consultation to discuss event details

-Unlimited email and telephone correspondence

-Confirm contracts/time schedules with all vendors one week prior to event

-On-site meeting 1-2 weeks prior to event date to discuss final details/preparations

-Ensure timely setup of event site

-Distribution of flowers to bridal party

-Obtaining marriage license signatures and delivery to officiate

-Create, distribute, and manage event time schedule with vendors/bridal party

-Coordinate rehearsal prior to wedding date (maximum 2 hrs)

-Coordinate ceremony and reception on event date as outlined in timeline/itinerary

-Provide bridal emergency kit

-Collection of gifts/personal items to be delivered to pre-determined destination at end of event

Call me at (310) 722-2873 or email nikola@aplatinumtouchevent.com to arrange a free consultation.

Honeymoon Registries - Tacky or Terrific?!

Photo source: http://www.resortvacationstogo.com/

Lately, there has been a lot of debate on whether or not honeymoon registries are tacky, or do they fall well within acceptable wedding etiquette. So, what is a honeymoon registry, you ask? Well, it's identical to a regular gift registry, however, instead of traditional gifts that couples usually request, such as household items, etc., the couple requests donations for certain aspects of, or toward the total cost of their honeymoon. Sounds like a simple enough concept, but who would have thought that this growing trend would spark so much of a debate? The naysayers argue that honeymoon registries are tasteless because you are essentially asking your guests for money without coming straight out and well, asking for money. They feel that the marrying couple's main focus should be their family and friends coming out to celebrate and support them as they start a new life together. Gifts are simply a welcome "extra", and anything you receive you shoud be appreciative and grateful for. While that may be true, those that have jumped on the honeymoon registry bandwagon look at it from a completely different perspective. They argue that most couples who are getting married already live together, so really there is no need for the usual blenders, coffee makers, dishes, etc., that are a staple on wedding gift tables around the world. So, why not ask for something that they can really use? After all, with more and more couples ponying up the cash for their own weddings, with little or no help from parents or anyone else, what is the harm in saving money on the honeymoon by getting a little creative with the "donation" request? After all, it is not mandatory for guests to make a contribution, and you will always have those guests that will skip the registry altogether and purchase what they think you will want or need. In addition, most honeymoon registries allow you to add traditional gift requests, or link to another gift registry that you have already created. I personally can agree with the arguments on both sides of the spectrum, but my advice is that it all depends on the couple and their own personal taste. In most cases, the couple knows their friends and family well enough to judge whether or not requesting contributions to their honeymoon registry will be a good idea or not. After all, a wedding is your own once in a lifetime special day. The best suggestion would be to make the decision that will ultimately please you and your partner at the end of the day.

If you are interested in creating a honeymoon registry, check out http://www.honeyfund.com/. There are no set up fees, no transaction fees, and best of all, your money comes directly to you (via paypal) from your gift givers. Another bonus: there is no travel purchase required, meaning you do not have to book your honeymoon through their company. You are free to use your own travel agent or search around for the best deals to fit your wishes!

Bridal Shows and Savings

An excellent way for engaged couples to find the perfect vendors that will match their style and budget is to attend a bridal show! It is also a wonderful time saver because it allows you the opportunity to meet with several vendors, ask questions, see samples of their work, and get pricing information all in one day! Here is a list of upcoming bridal shows that I think may be worth checking out:


AUG 16
Bridal Showplace
Hosted by Bridal Showplace
When: Aug 16, 2009 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM (1 day event)
Where: The Queen Mary - Long Beach1126 Queens Hwy.Long Beach CA 90802
Cost: $5.00
www.bridalshowplace.net

AUG 23
August 23rd "Summer Love" Bridal Show at the Universal City Hilton
Hosted by Expobridal
When: Aug 23, 2009 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM (1 day event)
Where: Universal City Hilton555 Universal Hollywood DriveNorth Hollywood CA 91602
Cost: $10 at door or Pre Register online for Discounted $5 tickets
http://www.expobridal.com

AUG 25
Brides and Basketball
Hosted by Brides and Basketball
When:Aug 25, 2009 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM (1 day event)
Where: Staples Center1111 S. Figueroa St.Los Angeles CA 90015
http://www.bridesandbasketball.com

SEP13
THE GREAT BRIDAL EXPO
Hosted by The Great Bridal Expo
When: Sep 13, 2009 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM (1 day event)
Where:SHERATON LOS ANGELES DOWNTOWN711 South Hope StreetLos Angeles CA 90017
Cost: $7 PREPAID / $9 CASH AT THE DOOR
http://www.greatbridalexpo.com

SEP13
West LA Bridal Show
Hosted by Courtyard by Marriott Los Angeles Westside
When: Sep 13, 2009 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM (1 day event)
Where: Courtyard by Marriott Los Angeles Westside
6333 Bristol ParkwayCulver City CA 90230
Cost: FREE!

OCT 4
Bridal Showplace
Hosted by Bridal Showplace
When:Oct 4, 2009 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM (1 day event)
Where:Knott's Berry Farm Resort Hotel7675 Crescent Ave.Buena Park CA 90620
Cost:$5.00
www.bridalshowplace.net

PTE Blog Is Here!!!

Hello, and thanks for visiting my blog!!! My name is Nikola Ahaiwe and I have just started my very own wedding/event planning business, Platinum Touch Events. This blog will be a diary of sorts, following my journey to becoming a successful entrepreneur and taking PTE to the next level. So sit back, relax, and make sure you check back often, as I will be sharing my ideas and experiences on my mission to make my business grow from a budding dream to a full bloom reality!