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.