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Kids Just Wanna Have Fun!

4/8/2018

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Planning a wedding is not just planning an event, it is creating an experience. It is an experience geared toward pleasing your honored guests. However, most of those guests will be of the mature variety and the kids that accompany them often find themselves bored and anxious to get back home out of their "Sunday Best". If you have decided to invite families with children, we have some great ideas on how to create a kid-friendly vibe that will be sure to keep the littles entertained and more than happy to hang out while their parents enjoy the evening. 

The first detail to consider is hiring a babysitter or two...or three during the dinner and/or the reception. Especially if you have several children attending, be sure to provide the appropriate amount of supervision that will help you and parents feel comfortable. Also provide attendants with first aid kits, cleansing wipes and plenty of caffeine! 

Provide entertainment. Like we said, kids are all about having fun. Many venues can accommodate an extra space for kids. You can set up a coloring stations, have games or puzzles on hand and even put on a kid-friendly movie. If you plan ahead, each child can have an activity bag ready for them complete with their name, so they feel a part of the fun too. If your venue cannot provide a separate space, set up a kids' table. This is actually a fun opportunity to add a little more whimsy and creativity geared more toward the littlest and cutest guests. Have the attendants you hired be prepared to help with activities and food. 

Kids get hungry easily....which can quickly escalate into "hangry" behavior. Before you know it, a previously happy child can morph into an unrecognizable creature with lots to say about how they really feel about being at your wedding! Don't take it personally, just be prepared. Make small snack bags that parents can hang on to if and when their child needs a little pick me up. 

Let them eat cake and let them dance! Desserts and dancing are the best part of the wedding for kids. Once they've been filled with sugar, let those cute kiddos dance off that sugar rush so they can crash for mom and dad as soon as they get back home. 

If you are considering sharing your special day with kids, be prepared and everything will go smoothly...



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Easter Inspired Spring Cocktail

4/1/2018

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Strawberry Jelly Bean Mimosa


Easter morning is one of those few occasions when children can hardly sleep the night before in anticipation! Waking up to colorfully full Easter baskets, new Easter dresses, egg hunts and candy....oh all the candy! Here at Leslie Dawn Events we believe the adults deserve some Easter magic too. Today we have a classic Easter candy inspired cocktail recipe that will work well with your Easter brunch and transition well into spring weddings. This recipe is also easily translated as a mocktail for those looking for a non-alcoholic version. 



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​The Ingredients:

7 cups sliced Strawberries

3 cups Orange Juice

4 cups Champagne, chilled

Optional Garnishes: Fresh strawberries, Orange slices or pink Jelly beans

Directions:

1. Combine half of the strawberries and orange juice into blender; cover and blend until smooth. Press through a fine strainer. Repeat with the remaining strawberries and orange juice. Top with 1/3 cup champagne. Top with your favorite garnish.

2. Pour about 2/3 cup strawberry and orange juice mixture into each champagne flute or wine glass. 

Nutrition:

1 cup: 112 calories, 0 fat (0 saturated fat), 0 cholesterol, 1mg sodium, 15g carbohydrate (10g sugars, 2g fiber), 1g protein.

Mocktail ( non-alcoholic ) version: 

To add a virgin twist on this yummy drink, follow the above recipe but substitute sprite or ginger ale for the champagne.

**Disclaimer: Photos are of our own work and we love for our work to be shared. Please properly credit us if you use these images. Photo by Sodabee Photography.
 
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MAKING AN EXIT

3/25/2018

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The party is over, and it's time for the blissful couple to make their traditional promenade past friends and family in a symbolic send off. It's tradition, but it doesn't have to be routine. Like so many of the wedding details, making an exit should make an impact. From smoke bombs to floating lanterns and fresh flower petals, we are excited by all the fun and innovative ways couples are choosing to elevate the tradition. Not only is it the perfect way to end the day, it's usually the best opportunity for some candid and timeless photographs. 

Sparklers have been huge the last few years. They are easy, inexpensive and always look amazing in photos, which make for an epic last shot for your wedding album. Just make sure you designate someone to place cold water buckets outside so that your guests can safely get rid of them after the fun is all over.

We are loving the confetti trend right now. From the traditional sparkly pieces to a flurry of flower petals, they add a fun touch to your exit and to your whole day. If the paper variety is not your thing try looking into eco-friendly confetti such as small flower petals or biodegradable elements. Just make sure your wedding planner or maid of honor has a broom ready to clean it up right after so it does not get spread through your venue.

Floating lanterns create the most magical photos and they are unexpected. They are not the most common wedding send off so they usually leave your guests awe struck. They usually work best in open areas so they are not getting caught in trees and telephone poles.

Colored smoke bombs are emerging onto the scene and creating some pretty spectacular photos. They are a spin on the classic sparkler exit but with a whole new flair. You also do not need to provide one for every person. Just a few will do.

Send offs are a great way to end the night with bang, and it also is an official end to the party. Just make sure to check in with your venue on their exit guidelines before you get your heart set on any specific idea, then you can create the best option to officially send you on your way.



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THE BUSINESS OF GETTING MARRIED

3/18/2018

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The business of planning your wedding can become just that... business. We often get lost in the details, instead of remembering that your wedding is not business, it's personal. Between the venue, food, flowers and about 1001 other details, hiring a wedding planner is one of the best ways to ensure that your special day is everything you've dreamed of. Here are a few ways to get the most out of your experience with a wedding planner.

1. Pick the right planner. Just like the need for good chemistry with your one and only and the need to find a ring that fits your personality, finding the right wedding planner is essential to the planning process. The right planner will connect your personality and style to the vision you've created in your mind. As you meet with potential wedding planners, remember to go with your gut. This person will be guiding you through this process in a professional, but personal way so make sure you feel confident with the person you've chosen.

2. Let your planner do their job! Your wedding is an investment in yourself and future spouse. Yes, be involved and in consistent contact with your planner, but remember you have paid her to be there to organize the details and take care of the "messy" stuff. If you do make changes with one of the vendors, make sure your planner knows so nothing gets lots in communication.

3. Use non-equivocal language. Remember that being clear about what you want will avoid miscommunication and potential stress. If you want purple details, specify what purple means to you. We wouldn't want you to have envisioned soft shades of lavender and orchid, and instead experience sensory overload with striking displays of ultra violet! (Although we are loving Pantone's color of the year!)

4. Relax and remember what's important. Your wedding day should cultivate feelings of peace, love, and joy. We believe that the planning process should also create positive vibes. Nowhere is it written that your wedding planning experience has to be stressful, and we feel it will serve you better to let your planner do the "stressing" about details outside your control, so you can focus on all the beautiful details that will make this day uniquely yours. 
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2018 Pantone color of the year.... Ultra violet

3/11/2018

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​​For years the color purple has symbolized royalty, wealth, ambition, magic, and spirituality.  At one point only royals were allowed to wear the color. I guess Pantone found magic in this particular shade because ultra violet is the 2018 Pantone color of the year. Pantone describes it as "A dramatically provocative and thoughtful purple shade, ultra violet communicates originality, ingenuity, and visionary thinking that  points us toward the future". Whether you are a bride who is drawn to bold and dramatic details or you would prefer a more muted color palette we can show you a way to incorporate this pretty hue into your big day.



 If you have been following us for awhile you know that we cannot get enough of gorgeous floral arrangements and installations. If you are trying to incorporate ultra violet into your wedding color palette,  flowers are a great way to go. There are so many variations of this shade in so many different varieties of flowers. From roses to anemones to tulips you will find gorgeous flowers in abundance. If you are not wanting to go quite as bold, you can ask your florist to use muted variations of ultra violet flowers as accents with blush or cream. This will allow you to use the shade with some added pastel to tone it down while still complimenting the purple.
 
I like to use ultra violet in an unexpected place such as a wedding cake. It is a great pop of color and a fantastic alternative to the traditional white cake. It can really be a pretty statement piece as well.. Ultra violet pops up in other treats too, from blackberry lemonades to lavender berry french macarons, both of which can make memorable favors for your guests.


Finally, Ultra violet is popping up everywhere in stationary and paper goods. You could use the deepest shade with foil accents for a striking invitation or a muted lilac wreath around the details of your save the dates. Another trend I am loving is watercolor place cards and menus with variations of ultra violet. They are so stunning and half the guests end up taking theirs home.

Whether you are a bride who wants breathtaking and dramatic decor or one who prefers more minimalistic details Ultra violet is a beautiful color that can easily be incorporated into your wedding in a alluring way.





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​Disclaimer : All photos are of our own work. Please properly credit us if you use them. 
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WEDDING TRENDS WE LOVE

3/4/2018

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Marble. Marble accents are popping up everywhere, but I am really  loving how they are making their way into weddings. These accents go with almost every style. They are clean and classic, and almost convey a soft feeling. A fun way to use this trend is in candle holders, cake stands, or even the cake itself.


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Wreaths. Wreaths are everywhere and they are not just reserved for December. From stunning floral wreaths incorporated into the decor to hanging organic green masterpieces creating a backdrop for photos these wreaths are everywhere and I can't get enough of them.

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Dramatic touches. Luxe design and impactful details are taking center stage this season. From incredible installations to food that is a work of art, couples are wanting details that are not only memorable but really make a statement.
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So you're Engaged, now what?

6/20/2016

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You’ve found the perfect guy, been given the most stunning ring, and received the most romantic proposal ... but now what? Once the whirlwind of the proposal wears off and the date is set, the overwhelming panic sets in that you are about to plan your wedding. Millions of tiny details have to come together to make this the best day of your life. No pressure right? Well, before you start panicking or getting cold feet, read on for all of our tips on keeping your cool and pulling off your dream wedding.
 
As soon as you get engaged the very first thing you should do is hire a wedding planner! I know I am biased, but a wedding planner can truly make all the difference. They become your right hand person by helping you bring your vision to life and make the whole planning process easier by helping you every step of the way. Sometimes in an overly saturated wedding market it is hard to weed out the good vendors from the bad, or even the great vendors from the average. Your wedding planner has worked with countless vendors and can help you find the florist with the right style aesthetic for your wedding design or the photographer with natural lighting expertise. They can let you know when vendor estimates are fair or when you are being taken advantage of. They can warn you if that beautiful wedding venue is the right fit for you or if they will not allow that floral chandelier that you are dead set on having. Sometimes we are just a friend to talk to when you and your mother cannot agree on a dress. Think of your wedding planner as a “wedding Attorney”. While we can’t actually give you legal advice, we can look after you and protect you to ensure that your event is flawlessly executed. In particular, we can help you ensure that you get the right photographer, florist, and caterer for your big day.

Imagine this: you have spent countless hours planning your dream wedding and it could not have been more beautiful! You could not be happier with everything you accomplished and are anxiously awaiting the photos. The day comes when the photos arrive and you tear through the gallery. You burst into tears when you realize your photographer only got one photo of you and your new husband, they did not capture any of the details or they poorly edited every photo. I cannot begin to emphasize the importance of booking a good photographer! Your photos capture your day. When the last piece of cake is gone and the flowers have all wilted, your photos and memories are all you have left to remember that day and if you did not book a good photographer it can be devastating.
 
A lush, fresh beautiful display of flowers can really make your event! Booking an experienced and well-priced florist with a good eye can take your wedding to a whole other level. They can help you incorporate unique floral details that help set your wedding apart from all of the other weddings your guests will attend this season. They create pieces that are memorable - from your centerpieces to your bouquet. It is so much more then throwing some flowers in a vase.
 
We have all heard that saying a way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Well, this is only half true. Women love good food too! Chocolate anyone? You can cover every last detail in your wedding planning process and that one bad meatball is what they will remember. Feed your guests and feed them well. Schedule a tasting with a few caterers and find one that gives as much attention to the plating and display of their food to the as to the taste of their menu.
 
Planning a wedding is a full time job, but remember to have fun with it too! You only get to experience this once. If you follow these steps I know you will be well on your way to creating the perfect day.
 
                 Congratulations and Good Luck!
 
 

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Bridesmaid’s Gifts

2/7/2015

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     A little over a year ago I was a bridesmaid in my cousin’s wedding. Being a part of the wedding was so wonderful to me since this particular cousin is more like a sister. Seeing her so happy with her new husband during her perfect wedding day was yet another reminder of why I love weddings. I was completely touched when she surprised me with a lovely and touching bridesmaid gift: it was a gold necklace with an 'L' on it. It was dainty and pretty, and I tell you with complete honesty that I wear it almost everyday. 

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Bridesmaid gifts are a great way to show your girls that you care about them, and are appreciative of all of their love and support. These gifts do not need to be expensive or add a big amount onto your budget. Anything that can show your girls that you care will work. Handing out these gifts during a quiet moment with just your bridesmaids is a great start to your wedding day, and a beautiful bonding experience in those last few moments before you tie the knot. 


* All of the cute gifts shown here are from one of my favorite gift stores called Bloomingsales in Salt Lake City Utah.
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Floral Chandeliers 

2/2/2015

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      Floral details have rapidly taken center stage at weddings over the past couple of years. Everything from floral crowns to adornments on ceremony chairs have been popping up everywhere. Although I have loved all of these floral trends there is something about floral arrangements from above that holds a special place in my heart. I love Floral chandeliers! These floral chandeliers can really become a memorable and creative touch . They are both beautiful and easy to customize to reflect the couples personal style.  Lush and gorgeous greenery can be added to preinstalled lighting fixtures taking them to the next level. There is also the option of starting from scratch and hanging floral arrangements upside down over a décor table or dining area. Regardless of what type you choose these stunning floral chandeliers will leave a lasting impression.

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PANTONE’S COLOR OF THE YEAR

1/25/2015

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     Marsala has been selected as Pantone’s color of the year! It is a beautiful and almost seductive shade of red. It is a color that stands strong on its own but can also be a bold choice for an accent color. It is an earthy red wine shade that has won me over. I have become completely obsessed with it! This is such a great color that I am incorporating it everywhere I can, from pouty lipstick to accent pillows for the family room sofa. With it being such a bold color, and also flattering on every skin tone, we are sure to see this gorgeous shade all over the red carpet and mixed into wedding color palettes this year.

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