Zotec Got Talent Holiday Lunch

ZOTEC GOT TALENT

Once again one of our favorite clients called us 15 days before their holiday party and needed help. Zotec Partners know how to throw a party! We always laugh because it doesn't matter what time of day or location: they like to party. "It's 5:00 somewhere" should be their slogan. David and Paige love new ideas and fun things when putting together events for their company. Darcie had the idea of putting together a talent show and then ZOTEC GOT TALENT came to life. Chick McGee from "The Bob and Tom Show" was the MC for the event and stood in as Simon Cowell on our judges' panel (We had to have the traditional American Idol Judges for fun). It was actually a very rewarding team building event for the company. Scott Law, the owner of Zotec, said he never knew all the talent around the office, he was just astonished. It was really neat to see people put together skits, sing, dance, play guitar, act, and work together as a TEAM. I love company events and I love Zotec, what great people. We brought in GET FLIPPED CHICAGO and had holograms made for the guests. http://www.getflippedchicago.com/home_files/flipoftheweek.htm The highlight of the day/evening was when YMCA started playing and the VILLAGE PEOPLE came in to perform the funniest skit you have ever seen. Just wait, we will have video of it soon. You have to watch it!!!!!! The guys in the office rented costumes and practiced the craziest dance moves. Everyone started laughing so hard, definitely the best part of the show. ZOTEC definitely has talent, thanks for letting us be a part of it. Can't wait for next year's party.

Tiffany & Brian

November 15, 2008

I decided to write this blog from my emotional, personal point of view. I’m sure you find it much more entertaining. If you would like more information about Tiffany and Brian’s vendors/venue please email me directly at tonya@circlecityplanners.com.

This is a hard one to write, I just adore the Cohen family. From the minute they came into my office, I felt a bond between us. When I say us, I mean the mom, dad, and Tiffany. And then came Brian, what a nice young man. He just adores Tiff, comes with a posse, and loves Jamaica patties (have you ever tasted one of these?). The Cohen’s came to me after they had to let their first wedding planner go. This unfortunately happens from time to time when the families and the planner just don’t click. Obviously, we had no trouble in that area. It was funny because every time we had a meeting there were always tears involved. Tiffany is laughing right now as she reads this because they were always happy tears but tears none the less. I love my job as many of you know, but this one was very special. I found myself wanting to make it PERFECT for them and doing whatever it took to make it that way. And yes, I have to admit it was perfect. There are always a few minor glitches, but that’s why we are there. But for the most part, it was an outstanding event. We are off from the wedding season until January, so this was definitely an exclamation point to my 08 season. It’s always bitter sweet when the bride and groom get married, we become so close with our girls that we know once wedding day is here it’s usually the end of our weekly encounters.Now for a few fun details about the Schiffany newlyweds. There were a couple of firsts at this wedding I have to document. The first one that really sticks out was the gigantic statue that was presented to Tiff and Brian at the reception. Brian’s fraternity boys or army (there were so many of them) started a tradition of buying a very large, unusual statue of some sort for their brother. Brian being the 4th fraternity brother to marry, the statues have become larger as time has passed. The statue has absolutely no significance to the brother or reasoning behind the gift. It’s just funny and very bizarre. When I say bizarre, did you see the picture yet? So in the middle of the dancing (which we blew the circuit breaker 2 times) the guys presented Brian with this statue. The point of the gift is to spark conversation, so every time a guest comes into the newlyweds home there will be this large obnoxious statue in the middle of their living room and people ask about it. It’s random, but so fun. Knowing Tiffany she will find the perfect, desolate spot for it in their new home. The other first happened when Laurenne decorated her first honeymoon suite. She went over to the Westin to surprise Tiffany and Brian and set up the romantic room with all the candles and rose petals. It’s just like what you see on TV, this is one of my favorite parts of any wedding. Then Judy wanted Tiffany to have her favorite cupcakes as a little surprise and then Tiffany wanted Brian to have his favorite Jamaica patties in there too. So to say the least even the romantic honeymoon was personalized for our couple. Have you ever heard of a Jamaica patty? When Brian spent some time living in Cabo San Lucas he fell in love with these patties. You can only find them at a little hole in the wall at 56th and Allisonville where else but Patties of Jamaica. So anyway I had to go and discover what all the craze was about. And sure enough the mystery meat isn’t half bad. I’m not sure I’d go back for seconds, but I see why he like the flaky pastry puff! That’s all for now, what a great event. Hats off to my 2 favorite ushers of the year Cameron and Cody and Tiff’s aunt Jen! They made the day so fun. A special thanks to my favorite vendors involved: Scalini, Indy Visual, Mona Breland and David, Ashley Long and Charlie, Dee from Thomas/Nina and Sean from Thomas, Bryan from Endless Summer, David from McNamara Broadripple, Taylor’s Bakery, A Classic (love ya Gary), BBJ linens/Jesse, Yellow Rose Carriage, and Justin from Carey. You guys make me look so good, right Laurenne?

Lyndsey and David

Well after 15 months and 3 babies Lyndsey and David are husband and wife. Lyndsey's brother had 2 babies during the planning process and I of course had Isabella.

Lyndsey wanted November 8,2008 to be all about her and David. We put many hours in planning this wedding and reception and to see it all come together was beautiful. LITERALLY. I along with my team setup most of the ballroom and theater on Friday. Lyndsey's linens were stunning. The tables were done in a pink champagne lamour linen with a gold floral lace overlay then espresso brown napkin and pink champagne chair cover with an espresso chair tie. The ballroom looked STUNNING. Julie did all the flowers in shades of pink roses with accents of blush colored feathers.

The day ran smooth. The morning was dedicated to hair and makeup. Then Lyndsey and her maids dressed at the Scottish Rite. David and guys got there just in time for few pre-ceremony pictures. At the start of ceremony, Ken Knowles and Ann Conrad sang "The Prayer" as Lyndsey's aunt and her husband lit a remembrance candle. The ceremony was so personal. There was a reading from the Velvetine Rabbit. Lyndsey is a nurse at a local children's hospital. Lyndsey's Dad, Craig had a hard time giving her away. When the pastor asked "who gives this woman to this man?" There was 20 seconds of silence. Finally, Craig said "her mother and I. " Afterwards, guests went downstairs to the South Lounge where cocktails and hors d'ouvuers awaited them. We had a photo montage running as a trio played. At the reception, the 28 tables were all named after cities in Sicily. This was to pay tribute to David's family. Vince, and the rest of the Thomas Catering staff did an awesome job. Have I mentioned the cake yet? It was like something you see in a magazine. Lyndsey, myself and Paige from Sweet Seductions came up with a design it looked as if silk was draped over cake with pink and gold jewels as accents. Brian Jones kept the dance floor rocking all night. When it was time to toss the bouquet, I took Lyndsey upstairs to the 3rd floor balcony. Once all the single ladies were on the dance floor, Lyndsey hurled the bouquet it almost hit the chandler. My heart skipped a beat. At the end of the evening, the antique limo picked up Lyndsey and David and chauffeured them back you their hotel where we had decorated their suite in rose petals and votive candles. This wedding would of not been possible without my FABULOUS dream team. 19 vendors in all and everyone single one did a great job. So Thank You to everyone. Lyndsey and David are off to California for week of relaxation.

Celeste and Kent

Celeste and Kent were married in Hawaii the week of October 4th (more pictures to come). Kent is stationed there in Hawaii. As you can see, the ceremony was very intimate and breath-taking. Celeste wanted simple and romantic; she accomplished without a doubt. When they returned Kent and Celeste invited their friends to join them at a more casual cocktail reception at the new Indianapolis Public Library. This celebration was my first at the new Library with my friend Nora! The pictures don’t even do this venue justice, it was a true, QUICK transformation and beautiful. You would never be able to imagine the quick alteration that FLICK (the exclusive catering company on-site) implemented from 5-7. The tables were rolled out, the information desk was transformed into a bar, and the check out center served as the perfect gift table. As the guests entered they were greeted by our staff directing them into the main lobby and up to the information desk/bar. Cosmos were the drink of the night, and boy did everyone love them. Topaz Entertainment, Vicki Richmond and her band, were outstanding rocking the night with their 70’s and 80’s tunes. The evening was very laid back and informal BUT FUN! David Jaynis captured the best memories from up above (see picture). The food was delicious, Kathleen and Daniel did a great job keeping the food stations going and interactive for all the guests to enjoy. My favorite part of the evening was the dessert station full of different varieties of cupcakes (carrot, red velvet, peanut butter, vanilla, and chocolate) and one HUGE single cupcake for the first cupcake cutting. So cute. PS. I ate two cupcakes they were so good, I think I could have polished off 1 more. All and all the couple had wonderful time and enjoyed being relaxed socializing with their friends and family. Off they went in a horse and carriage at the front steps of the library and then off to Nicky Blaine’s for the after party. Congratulations to my couple!

Neha & Warren

Neha and Warren were married at the Eiteljorg Museum on October 11,2008 for the second time!!! They had a Hindu ceremony earlier this summer. Neha was all about the planning. At our first meeting I asked when and how did Warren propose. She told me it was Saturday night ( we were meeting on the following Thursday) and she had already secured the venue! I knew right then that this girl wasn't wasting any time and she didn't have a lot of time to waste. Neha and Warren are both doctors and their schedules are demanding. From the very beginning, Neha was worried about the weather. I would always try to calm her down telling her its going to be beautiful whether the ceremony is outside or inside. But when we got down to the final two weeks before the wedding Neha couldn't keep her eyes off the http://www.weather.com/ . Warren and I finally had to limit her to only checking once a day!!!! When October 11th rolled around it ended up being a beautiful day. Who would of thought 85 degrees in the middle of October needless to say we didn't use the outdoor heaters! The day started out with girls getting their hair and makeup done at Savvy Salon. Savvy has a great (private) room for bridal parties. The girls sipped mimosas and snacked on fruit while having hair and makeup done. Julie stopped by to show Neha and the girls their bouquets. Then the ladies went back to Neha's apartment to get dressed while the guys got ready across the canal at the Residence Inn. Jen (my wonderful assistant) and I set up everything we could in ballroom while the museum was open then Jen transferred things out outside. Warren didn't want to see Neha before the ceremony so getting them both to the Eiteljorg at the same time was a little tricky but of course we pulled it off. The ceremony area was beautiful and the ceremony started right on time. The sun was setting and The Village Trio started to play it was so romantic. After Neha and Warren were pronounced man and wife guests had Gavinitis ( their signature drink ) and hors d'oeuvres in the upper circular garden. The one thing we didn't plan for was mosquitoes!! They were terrible! So we had to change plans up a little bit. The couple wanted to take pictures on the canal but we ended up taking them inside. Kahn's Catering the exclusive caterer at the Eiteljorg rang the dinner chimes and The Wendy Reed Band announced the bridal party. Dinner was fantastic. Guest had a choice of salmon or chicken. Warren's brother Bryan sang while Neha and Warren danced their first dance and husband and wife. If was so touching. I love it when weddings get personal. I think that is what makes every wedding unique. The band played while guests mingled with each other and danced until Midnight. Once the Jen and I had cleaned up we joined the couple for a drink at an impromptu after party at Nicky Blane's. Neha didn't change out of her wedding gown so everyone was coming up to her congratulating her and Warren. A special thanks to everyone that helped me with this wedding. Cara from Kahn's, Sarah at the museum, Julie and her gorgeous floral creations, Stacy and Mary the fabulous photographers and Bob and his video camera. This wedding was definitely one to remember. Neha and Warren are taking a late honeymoon to Mexico in February. I'm already jealous just thinking how COLD its going to be then!

Sonia and Chris

Sonia and Chris were married on October 4, 2008 at the Scottish Rite Cathedral and then went up north to the Montage for a great reception (party)! Sonia and Chris came to me less than 2 months ago and needed to take action right away. I knew this wedding was going to be fantastic, so I had to give special attention to my new couple. We found them a photographer, created a décor plan, met with my magician friend Scott Evans for uplighting and draping, booked my friend the greatest videographer on the planet Bob, got them connected to Jose and Sons for ice, and our favorite designer Julie from Royal Creations to create a miraculous event. WOW, it is rewarding when everything comes together. The couple found pictures and more pictures to give me ideas on their style, we nailed it to a “T”. Everything was so unique, Sonia is from Jordan and Chris is from San Antonio; They come from different backgrounds and different family beliefs. In Jordan, weddings are so glamorous. When I say glamorous, I mean GLAMOROUS. Chris wanted the fairy tale wedding Sonia had always imagined. We called him the “DOUBLE IT MAN” by the end of the planning. When I suggested a bag piper at the exit, he would say “DOUBLE IT” (we ended up with 6 bag pipers and 4 drummers). We suggested a 3 tier cake, he would say “DOUBLE IT”. They were so sweet and really wanted to put on a party. The theatre was amazing as Julie created the perfect canopy tent to frame the stage and couple. Sonia’s uncle married them (We love you Uncle Dick). He told me from all the weddings he has ever performed (over 300) there were only 2 that went off in time and I was one of the 2, YEAH! Crowe’s Eye Photography grabbed beautiful images of my couple as they made their grand exit down the front stairs of the Scottish Rite listening to the grand bag pipers and drummers. 2 limos and 2 town cars lined Meridian Street for a proper send off. As guests arrived at Montage they were directed through a wine pipe and drape tunnel leading straight to the Champagne room. The perfect red color toned uplights transformed the room as the jazz band (a new one for us, thanks to Andy) oozed the guests into the atrium. Once they reached the bar the most amazing bar and ice luge was awaiting the guests with the couple’s name etched into the ice. Scott Evans did a great job capturing Chris’ vision for the bar. The main room awaited the guests as my helpers Angie and Laurenne escorted each guest to their table. Way to go girls! The main dinning room was pin spotted and up lit with white LED lighting, truly an “AWE” moment. The main focal point was the head table as the hedge of roses made a true statement. Each centerpiece had an individual ice sculpture encompassing a rose inside. The guests were talking all night about those sculptures. Of course, the Montage wouldn’t be the Montage without the magical fireworks. Darcie was at the Marriott North with her couple and called me asking if that noise was from my fireworks. Chris, of course, DOUBLED the show to make it truly GLAMOROUS! Everything was smooth and great. I am going to miss this couple. Next time I’m in Vegas I’m going to shout out “DOUBLE IT” and think of my friends Sonia and Chris!

Abbie & Chris

WOW what a wedding! This couple was so much fun and so was there wedding. We started planning way back in the beginning of the year and on Saturday October 4th it all came together. I love weddings with color and this one was full of it. Abbie chose the color palette of navy and pink it was so pretty. The ceremony took place at Castleton United Methodist Church and Hiedi the wedding hostess was wonderful to work with. Kiralee Hubbard (makeup artist)did another fabulous job making all the ladies look great. The guys looked great as well. Especially Chris in is dress blues. Jennifer Discroll and her assistant Jordyn captured every moment with her fabulous photos. This was the first time that I was lucky enough to work with Jennifer and it was a blast.
Once Abbie and Chris were pronounced man and wife they did a short receiving line with just the two of them and then Chris arranged with some of his military friends to do a saber arch exit. (How COOL!!) Then they took off in their get-away transportation, a trolley. Chris's mom had Hawaiian leis flown in for her, Abbie's mom, Abbie and Chris. They smelled wonderful. Jim Cerone had the party rocking all night long. There was one minor glitch in the evening. Becky (Abbie's mom) had brought in an ice cream cake for Chris (its his favorite) and it was mistakenly put in the cooler instead of the freezer. It was a hot mess LITERALLY. But Sarah at the Marriott North called another Diary Queen and had one of the bellmen go and pick it another one up. Way to go Sarah! This wedding had it all great food, fun and the signature drink even matched the wedding it was called the Blue Q. During Abbie's and Chris's first dance I was able to take it all in and I said to Jim "The is nothing like a man in uniform and a woman in white dress." And Jim said "That's why we do what we do." And he is right it was a wonderful evening.