Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Brilliant Britto Weddings & Events Exposition!

Allow me to begin by saying that I am honored to be a part of an incredible industry and group of professionals in South Florida. As a planner and wedding specialist, I have coordinated, and been involved with a myriad of events that may be termed eye catching, innovative and creative … however none to date have compared with the Signature Britto Wedding and Events exposition we recently hosted.

At the direction of Posh Event Creations, Miami’s premiere floral, entertainment and décor specialists showcased Britto’s innovative artwork via customized table centerpieces, lounge décor and bar designs. This incredible event was visually enchanting and a delight to the senses … it was brilliantly Britto!

I would like to extend a very special thanks to those who helped make the event an overwhelming success:

Romero Britto, artist extraordinaire!

Mandarin Oriental Culinary and Banquet Team for their outstanding food and incomparable service
Maricarmen Bandin with Posh Event Creations
Veronica Alfonso with Essential Decors
Avant Gardens, Rick Interian
Bubble Collection, Katy and Jean Marc
Café a la Carte, Bonnie and Dominick
Elegant Temptations
Grande Affaires, Sharon Siegel and Robert Torres
Grande Events, Al Davis
Isis Floral Designs
Jose Graterol Designs, Jose and Steve
ME Productions, Lori and Jim
Nuage, Pablo Oliveira
So Cool Events
Southern Audio Visual, David Velez
The Invitation Stand
The Zanadu Group and Cheryl Beitler for providing brilliant performers and memorable performances

And infinite thanks to Donna Newman, whose images capture and convey the very essence and excitement of the event! To view more images of this incredible event, please visit the website of esteemed photographer, Donna Newman: Britto Event Images

Thursday, October 1, 2009

Personalizing Your Wedding

A wedding is all about getting personal! At Mandarin Oriental, Miami we work diligently with our couples to ensure their preferences and personal styles are reflected in “moments of delight” throughout the entirety of the event. I want to share with you some wonderful ways in which couples have “branded” their wedding ceremonies on our Oasis Beach and allowed their personalities to shine through.

Our Oasis Beach ceremonies provide not just a magical setting, but the perfect venue for couples to distribute Asian slippers or personalized Havaiana sandals to their guests. It is an age old Asian tradition that guests remove their shoes before entering one’s home, as such, the Asian slippers not only fit perfectly with our hotel’s Asian heritage, but are a comfortable alternative to wearing Manolo’s or Louboutin’s on the sand. Guests are welcomed with a “shoe check” where they are able to sit comfortably to remove their shoes, receive their favor and check their shoes at the door rather than carrying them during their time on the sand.

Beautifully monogrammed fans are also a wonderful touch and help when our Miami breezes are stilled. Another beautiful, but not so subtle touch is to create your own “Moon over Miami.” Lighting balloons provide the beach and bay with a gorgeous glow and may be covered with customized linens illuminating the couple’s monogram.


One of my personal favorites is customized sand sculptures by local artist Johnny Starman with Sand Sentinels. Whether the NYC sky-line, or your own castles of love, they never cease to amaze guests.

Last, but certainly not the least, fireworks are the epitome of finishing your vows with a “bang” and are forever memorable.