Under the Influence... of Italy

For those of you that know me, you know that I absolutely LOVE to travel … and for those of you that really know me, you also know that my passion for fashion takes a very close back seat. I wanted to write about something that blends these passions, along with my excitement for planning weddings. I invite you to travel with me to my favorite destination, Italy, where we embark upon some of my favorite and some of the most creative bridal collections for the 2010/2011 seasons. Andiamo!


Ah … Italia … ah… Alberta Ferretti

Alberta Ferretti Forever, her debut collection of wedding dresses, is a true renaissance of classic lines, grace and glamour, all perfectly balanced with innovation and creative mystique. I have followed her collections for years, and now, have yet another reason to love her … forever!

Cosi romantico … Atelier Aimee

Italian lace, intricate beading, ruffles, these gowns are the epitome of romance! Atelier Aimee is renowned for the dreamy quality of their designs. For those of you wishing to make a bold statement (who says a wedding gown has to be white anyway???) in a traditional way, prepare yourselves for absolute enchantment!

And for those of you that really, really know me … Roberto Cavalli Bridal … what more possibly needs to be said??

Roberto Cavalli continues to amaze us with his flamboyant Italian style, straight from the catwalks of Rome and his native city of Florence.

Next stop ... Barcelona!

Making A Difference

I LOVE my job! Over a career of 20 years in the events and wedding industry, I have been welcomed into the lives, hearts and memories of individuals as they celebrate some of life’s most precious celebrations. With each event, I derive a great sense of fulfillment and purpose, as I am given an opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life.


This is never so important, or so true, as when participating with Mandarin Oriental, Miami’s adoptive charity, Voices for Children Foundation. This year, on February 19, 2011, we will celebrate the 10th Anniversary of Voices for Children with their annual fund-raising gala, as well as the 10th Anniversary of Mandarin Oriental, Miami. The mission of Voices For Children is to raise funds to ensure that every abused and neglected child in Miami-Dade County has a court-appointed Guardian ad Litem and that financial assistance and other resources are available for their accompanying health, educational, and social needs. It is a LOCAL organization, and your involvement can directly affect the lives of children in this city. You too can make a difference and you too can Be A Voice by making a financial contribution, volunteering your time or becoming a Guardian Ad Litem.

What do Guardian Ad Litems (GAL) do?

• Speak up for the best interests of the child
• Gather information through regular visits with the child
• Conduct interviews with people associated with the child, such as parents, caregivers and all social and medical service providers
• Attend hearings on the child’s behalf
• Make recommendations to the judge

Who can become a GAL?

Anyone who:
• Possesses a strong desire to help children
• Demonstrates good judgment and common sense
• Exhibits good communication skills
• Provides favorable references and consents to a background check
• Completes 30 hours of training
• Is at least 19 years old

How can you Be A Voice?

If you would like to make a financial contribution, please contact Voices For Children at 305.324.5678 or to become a Guardian Ad Litem volunteer, call 305.638.6861.

To make and difference, and to learn more, visit the Voices for Children website.