I had the most amazing time at
engage! 09 :: Something Blue! {a business summit for luxury wedding professionals} at the
Ritz Carlton Grand Cayman last month. Here is a re-cap of the events told through these gorgeous images from
Stacey Kane (
thank you, Stacey!). Upon arrival to the hotel, we were greeted with adorable swag bags full of goodies. I love the map
Laura Hooper created for the event.
The first night, the mega-talented
Michelle Rago created this fabulous beach party. Fun details included a shoe valet, mango mojitos {OK-
lots of flavors of mojitos thanks to Tortuga Rum, which is made on the island}, beach furniture, custom linens and tents, a huge
phalaenopsis orchid/manzanita branch centerpiece for the bar, a steel drum band that pulled right up to the party on a boat and a surprise fireworks display! Wow.
Day two, we heard from some of the industry greats:
Carley Roney, Co-Founder of
The Knot,
Sylvia Weinstock,
Millie Martini Bratten, Editor of
BRIDES Magazine, Darcy Miller of
Martha Stewart Weddings and
Antonia van der Meer Editor of
Modern Bride and
Elegant Bride Magazines.
Simon T. Bailey, a motivational speaker, was one of my favorites, as well as these two {
Marcy Blum and
Preston Bailey} who spoke of hot topics like vendor commissions, DIY weddings {how does this affect planners/designers?} and the recession.
I also had the pleasure of chatting with
Darcy Miller of
Martha Stewart Weddings about
the blog- and about her fabulous Prada sandals.
After a long day of absorbing as much as possible from the wonderful speakers, I had the pleasure of having dinner with Preston Bailey at the Ritz at Chef Eric Ripert's restaurant
Blue.
Day three we heard from many more industry leaders on topics such as
the business of the wedding business, destination weddings and social media.
Later that night, Jo-Anne Brown and her team from
Celebrations Ltd transformed the ballroom into a magical "under-the-sea" party. All of the well thought out details- an "aquarium" bar with live fish, lounge areas for everyone to relax in, multiple GoBos is sea shapes such as sand dollars, lit tables, tropical florals, a huge floral starfish centerpiece, amazing linens from
LaTavola and
blue everything- from the drinks to the lighting- made it a night to remember.
But the most memorable part of the evening {and there are
many} and possibly all of engage! 09 was
Sylvia Weinstock dancing up a storm with
Kleinfeld's (and TLC's
Say Yes to the Dress) Randy Fenoli. See the video
here courtesy of Bee Kim {the creator of
WeddingBee}.
I had a blast with everyone at the party including these two super fun, friendly and down to earth ladies-
Marcy and
Michelle.
Thank you to Rebecca Grinnals and Kathryn Arce of
Engaging Concepts for putting together such an incredible event! I met so many wonderful and inspirational wedding professionals from all over. I can't wait for the next engage!
The bride and groom were sent off with a bubble exit. I love this ring shot Alea got with the bubbles just before their departure.
I love Ginny's expression as the couple is pronounced husband and wife.
Again, thank you to Josh Goleman for these images!
We heart betsywhite. Gia sent over this fabulous FREE DIY download to create these adorable cello bag labels {below} to compliment this "vintage inspired homespun charm" board featuring betsywhite's Marissa invitations. These oh-so-cute and easy labels are perfect to top cello bags filled with homemade treats for wedding or shower favors, or the perfect compliment to an afternoon tea with all of your bridesmaids.
I hope everyone is enjoying the fabulous industry parties this summer. I am looking forward to the Bridal Bar Grand Opening Soiree on July 15th. Mark your calendar!
