Grooms Cake

September 15th, 2009 by Janie Varisco

One of my favorite assignments as a wedding planner is bringing the bride to pick out the groom’s cake. The groom’s cake dates back to the 19th century and is a very Southern tradition. It was often much smaller than the wedding cake and the flavor was usually the groom’s favorite. The most recognizable groom’s cake is the bleeding Armadillo cake from Shelby’s wedding in the movie Steel Magnolias. However today, the groom’s cake can be very elaborate and really reflect the groom’s personality. I find that most brides want to surprise the groom and these cakes can be very extravagant. With today’s bakers the sky is the limit on what you want your grooms cake to be…anything from his favorite sport to the entire sports stadium. Baker’s are taking groom’s cakes to a whole new level which can be seen on such shows as Ace of Cakes, Amazing Wedding Cakes and Cake Boss. Now remember, the grooms cake can cost as much if not more than the wedding cake depending on how elaborate your design. So, honor your groom with a cake to remember.

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Choosing your florist

August 30th, 2009 by Janie Varisco

Flowers are the most important part of the wedding so be choosy when picking out your florist.  In my book, word of mouth is the best way to find a great florist.  Ask your girlfriends and people you trust who they used for their wedding.  Start your search at least 6 months (or earlier if possible) before your wedding, but have your florist under contract 4 months ahead.  When choosing your wedding florist make sure you have your reception site picked out, that way you will know how many arrangements you need and what colors might clash with the décor.  Consider what kind of flowers you like, but remember all flowers are not available all year, to save cost choose flowers that will be in season for your wedding day. 

It’s VERY important to be upfront with your florist when it comes to your budget BUT be realistic.  You can’t have a $200 bouquet if you floral budget is $500.  Choose flowers that can be used throughout your wedding, using too many different flowers will bring the cost up dramatically. 

 It is important to know what you will be paying the florist before you employ them.  Are there any hidden or set-up costs?  Is there a delivery charge?  Make sure you get a contract in writing!!  It doesn’t matter how good the florist is, or how much they like you, if they don’t put it in writing, NO DEAL!!

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Wedding Day Emergency Kit

August 22nd, 2009 by Janie Varisco

Your wedding day is here, you planned for everything…but remember emergencies happen. To keep the stress down and avoid disasters put together a wedding day emergency kit and give it to your maid of honor. Hopefully you won’t need to use any of these items on your wedding day, but you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you have them.

Suggested Items

• Sewing Kit • Clear nail polish • Clothes Tape • Nail File • Straws • Scissors • Hairspray • Wet wipes • Extra hose • Comb & Brush • Bobby pins • Static cling spray • Tissues • Lint brush • Earring backs • Baby Powder (useful for covering spills on white dress) • White chalk • Eye Drops • Contact Lens Solution • Acid Relief • Smelling Salts • Antacid • Mints • Tampons and Pads • Headaches Medicine • Band Aids

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Reception Rentals Guide

August 18th, 2009 by Janie Varisco

When you book your wedding venue be aware that you may have to rent many items to complete your perfect party. 

Here is a list of some items you may need:

Guest Tables,  Cake Tables, Head Tables, Buffet Tables, Gift Tables, Guest Book Table, Chairs, Chair Covers, Tableware, Linens, Tents, Heaters/AC, Dance Floor, Lighting, Bathrooms, PA Systems, Columns, Cake Platters, Chandeliers, etc.

I suggest that you meet with your rental company at least 4 months prior to your event.  That’s usually enough time to secure the products you want.  Make an appointment and bring either your event planner or caterer to your first visit. 

Read and understand the contract with your rental vendor, everything should be itemized with its price, the delivery date, delivery fee, pick up date and service charges.  I don’t recommend that you rent from several vendors, it makes everything more complicated.  The best rental companies have a great variety of products, so it then becomes one stop shopping for your event.

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Wedding Photography

August 17th, 2009 by Janie Varisco

Never scimp on your photographer! NEVER! Your pictures are all that remain long after the memories of your wedding day fade. Go ahead and look for the best value, but remember you will have better pictures by paying a little more for a professional photographer. The one thing I constantly hear from couples is the mistake they made by having “friends” shoot their wedding. Their pictures come out blurry, not centered, too light or dark, and of course the dreaded “red eyes”. Then years later I hear…”why didn’t we hire a professional?” Here is my first hand story: My husband and I eloped and had a large reception a few months later. We asked a dear friend to take pictures at our reception and guess what? She didn’t even show up..luckly we had several friends who brought their camera’s and have some good pics. But I will be the first one to say “I regret NOT hiring a pro.”

 

You don’t need to hire the most expensive photographer to get a good photographer however, don’t let price fool you into thinking you’re getting a great one.

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Picking out your venue:

August 14th, 2009 by Janie Varisco

Finding the perfect venue for your wedding reception can be like finding the perfect husband, so take your time. Here in Acadiana we have some very creative choices such as The Blue Moon Saloon, Rip Van Winkle Gardens, L’Eglise, Acadian Village and Vermillionville. As well as the typical venues such as church, civic clubs, and banquet halls, museums, country clubs,hotels, historical buildings, restaurants etc.You must start by knowing how many guests will be in attendance. Make sure you bring your camera and a notepad when checking out venues so you don’t confuse one with another. Make sure you get prices on each and a list of amenities and restrictions on each venue. Should you choose to use an outdoor venue, make sure you have an alternate space in case of bad weather.

Sample list of questions to ask:

What is the décor like? Will you have to spend a lot of your budget to make your venue beautiful?
Do you have to use their caterer or can you bring in your own?
Do they have adequate bathroom facilities?
Is the venue wheelchair accessable?
What is their cancellation policy?
What is the deposit to hold the date? Do they have a payment schedule?
What are their overtime charges?
Do they have a liquor license? Or can you bring in your alcohol?
Is there place for the Bride and Groom to change or relax?
Is there a policy on music? Is a band allowed?
Do they have adequate parking?
Are candles or open flames allowed?
Do they provide clean-up?

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