What a bunch of FRUIT CAKES!!!!!

Do you consider fruit cake to be REGAL?

It has been revealed that the royal couple, Prince William and Kate Middleton, have chosen a multi-tiered FRUIT CAKE for their wedding cake. Fruit cake is part of British tradition. To Americans, it serves as a bad Christmas gift. Either way you view it, it WILL have an impact on upcoming wedding trends.

I am guessing that Kate and William have never tried Heavenly Sweets' delicious butter cream frosting. Heavenly Sweets is FABULOUS at producing some of the most amazing wedding cakes in the city. I'm also SURE that the royal couple didn't stop by Classic Cakes of Carmel either. Classic Cakes is another one of our favorite bakeries in the city.

Last week when Tonya and I were in Las Vegas, at the Grace and Luxury Rockstar Wedding Planner conference, Sylvia Winstock was given the award of "Wedding Innovator of the Year". She didn't once mention that fruit cake was a trend in the wedding industry. Do you think now that the Prince and Kate are having a fruit cake for their wedding, that their choice will travel across the Atlantic, and more U.S. couples will try a fruit cake wedding cake?

That just seems like a fruity idea :)




Above is a beautiful cake done by Ilene at Classic Cakes of Carmel




And another beauty from Tanya at Heavenly Sweets!

THANK YOU TROY HILL! Gorgeous photos are HERE!

A few weeks ago, Circle City Planners and Designers had the honor of being a part of Art of the Table at the Columbia Club. We chose a Black Swan theme to our table to celebrate the great movie and intriguing design elements used in the costumes and the film. We are so grateful to have been given such great shots of our work by Troy Hill Photography

Thank goodness Natalie Portman won the Oscar or this would have seemed silly :)


















Thank you again, Troy for your gifts to us! Please visit his site to see his amazing work!

Just Got Engaged? Where on Earth do you start?? Let us help!

First of all, Congratulations!! Becoming engaged is one of the most exciting moments in a girl's life... To find the one you will spend the rest of your life with is such a wonderful blessing! After the crying, congratulations, and staring at your BLING, it's time to get down to business.

These days, weddings can seem pretty overwhelming. You may be thinking to yourself, Where could I possibly begin? Let us help! We are experts in making the planning process stress free and your big day absolutely perfect! We have TEN YEARS of planning experience and around here at Circle City Planners... it's ALL about the girl!

Here is an overview of the various ways in which we can help you, beautiful bride!

Full Service Planning: You let us know of the engagement and we take it from there! Start to finish, we're your gals. We can give you recommendations and help you select all your vendors - the photographer, the cake, the venue, the linens, the DJ, all of it! And the best part of hiring a planner? We already know who's great at what they do... No gambling on these decisions! ;) This also includes making a time line and overseeing the rehearsal, and day-of orchestration. We really love to do full-service planning for our clients because we fall in love with every family!

Weekenders Planning: Let's say you have already selected all of your vendors, but you really need someone to pull it together. While you are getting pampered and spending time with your bridesmaids the week before the wedding, we will confirm all your vendors, create a time line of the rehearsal and the big day, making sure everyone is where they need to be at the right time!

Circle City Designers: If you are looking to make your room POP!, CCD can help you with design and florals! Maybe you don't think you need a planner but you would like someone to help you with decor, florals and lighting! We can take your chosen colors and make any room look like a million bucks!


These services are invaluable to a bride! Getting to enjoy the day with your closest friends, family, and soon to be hubby is the most important part and nothing should distract from that!

If you are interested in our full service planning services, contact Darcie at darcie@circlecityplanners.com. If you are interested in Weekenders Planning, contact Randi at randi@circlecityplanners.com. If you are interested in florals or design, contact Tiffany at tiffany@circlecityplanners.com.

We look forward to making your day FABULOUS!


xoxo-CCP & CCD

Who's REALLY running the show????

There are lots of hands on deck when it comes to your wedding planning. From your officiant, to the venue staff, to your event planner and your photographer, each person adds a different element to the big day. Each person is important, but for your reception, WHO is really running the show?

It's your DJ! I spoke with Jeremy Gearries, owner of DJ's Direct, and asked him to share with you, the importance of hiring the right DJ. The first thing a couple needs to realize is that there is a BIG difference between hiring a wedding DJ versus a club DJ, or someone who "does this on the side". Jeremy says "I-pods and the internet sources for music have made songs readily available to everyone, but the true talent of a DJ is in reading the crowd, not pressing "Play". " Weddings, unlike most events, bring diverse crowds, of all ages, from all walks of life. You have to be able to read the crowd's reactions, anticipate people, and bring the type of variety that will get everyone up and moving! The bride and groom have to have confidence in the DJ to create the right type of mood and vibe to the wedding. Not only is the flow of the music and the song selection important, but having a DJ with the confidence, tact, and swagger to direct people to do what you need them to do to have the reception go smoothly, is key. For example, directing guests to dinner, introducing your first dance, quieting everyone for toasts, and creating the sweet moment when a father dances with his daughter, are things an amateur DJ simply CANNOT do.

What should you look out for? What are the red flags?

It's not a good idea to hire a family friend, or "that guy" who DJ's on the side. Jeremy notes that "The industry is flooded with I-pod DJ's and people who just aren't professionals. If a DJ doesn't have a website, or doesn't have DATED testimonials for you to see, you shouldn't hire them." Testimonials and referrals are key in finding the right DJ for you. You want to know that they have experience, and experience only comes with time. "If you look at our website, you will see testimonials date back to 2002, we want our future clients to see that we have established experience."


When do you need to start looking?

Jeremy says his clients tend to book "about 8-10 months prior to the wedding." DJ's Direct has a team of DJ's to choose from, but dates book up quickly. Its important to take time to meet with them, make sure they have references and experience, are solely devoted to the wedding industry, and exude professionalism that provides YOU with the trust that your day will go smoothly! You will find as you look around, that like most things, DJ's pricing can vary tremendously. Higher priced DJ's "have a tremendous demand and have established themselves in the wedding industry. Demand always reflects quality".

Just for a fun little finish, I asked Jeremy to tell me what the Top 5 "First Dance" songs were right now. I assumed that with all trends, music choices changed very quickly. What we find, is that when it comes to weddings, people stick with the classics. These are listed on the DJ's Direct website along with other "Top" lists and tools that help you pick the right songs for the right times!

Top 5 "First Dance" Songs
* "Then" by Brad Paisley
* "At Last" by Etta James
* "Lucky" by Jason Mraz and Colbie Caillat
* "Amazed" by Lonestar
* "Everything" by Michael Buble


Happy Planning! Big PINK hugs, Tiffany

The 80's are STILL HERE!

It seems like we are always talking about how the 80's are making a comeback! Well, I think its safe to say, the 80's are here to stay!!!!

We had the honor of attending one of our local industry's most important awards banquet a few weeks ago, and YOU GUESSED IT! It was 80's night! We all dressed up in our most Madonna-esque outfits and headed to the prom!!!! Our own Darcie Kornmeyer was named THE PACE PROM QUEEN!!! Congratulations, our wedding diva, we are so PROUD OF YOU!



That handsome young man standing next to her is one of our FAVORITE DJ's, Mr. Jim Cerone. There was NO ONE more fitting to be the prom king than he! We love you Jim!!!


So, on to the "trends"...Who would have thought you would have brought the 1980's into your wedding?

According to the Knot.com "The '80s are back in a big way, and weddings are not immune. Fingerless gloves, neon graffiti, and '80s prom music will be huge at fashion-forward receptions and after-parties." See the full article here!


The 80's have inspired floral design as well! Back in the day, we would see football mums, gardenias, fuji mums, and daisy pom poms ALL over the place for weddings. Then they became a thing of the past! But, once again, they are HOT, HOT, HOT!
Check out this GORGEOUS bridal bouquet with football mums!



And remember that picture of your mom's wedding with the long cascade bouquet? Long gone are the tight-roundy-moundies! Cascades are BACK, and better than ever!



We thought gardenias were for our grandmothers, but once an 80's trend, now a surefire way to bring the vintage look to the modern wedding!




The 80's have even hit the fashion world for weddings. The newest trend in bridesmaid's dresses is to go back to full lengths! You will also see brighter, BOLDER colors than you ever have before!!!



Fun accessories like feathers, crystals, colored water, aqua beads, and LED lighting are sticking around too!










Whether the 80's fit your flare or not, the trends are subtly being implemented by all types of events. It's so fun to see how things evolve over time and make their way back into the "IT" culture of wedding design. Get out your red lipstick, blue eyeshadow and put some Bananarama on your I-Pod!

Our hearts are FULL!

Today is a sad day all across the globe. Our thoughts and prayers go out to those in Japan impacted by this terrible earthquake, and our friends here at home in Hawaii battling the treacherous tsunami. Living here in the Midwest, we are typically protected from these natural disasters and their effects seem so far away. But, when you see the lives lost, the hearts torn, the damage done, it becomes very clear how lucky we are. So today, let's not complain that it isn't spring yet, that it's too cold, that we have too many potholes left over from winter.....let's count our blessings. Let's hug those friends and coworkers, go home and kiss our families, and be thankful that our hearts are so full.


This is a great time to think about how you can give back to your community. Whether it be with your time, or with your dollars, moments like these make you realize how much impact a helping hand can be.

Here is a great place to start looking to see how YOU can make a difference! www.helpindyonline.org

The sun is shining, and today still CAN be a beautiful day!!!!


Tell us what you are doing to make a DIFFERENCE!!!

VIVA LAS VEGAS BABY!!!!!

For the past month or so, Las Vegas has been the "IT" spot for the event industry! All of our local "industry buddies" have taken Las Vegas by storm! And that storm is still brewing!! Look out~ The CCPINK girls are on their way!

It all began in February when all our favorite photographers went out to see the over 300 exhibitors and 75 speakers for Wedding and Portrait Photographers International (WPPI). What an amazing group of professionals!!! I wonder if all those picture takers abided by the "what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas" rule?
www.wppionline.com


The Event Solutions Idea Factory came next. Slated as "The Show That Will Shape The Next Decade, Be a Part of Something Great!" this was a fantastic peek into event design. From lighting, to draping, to floral, to linens, this was THE place to be for all event designers!

http://www.es-ideafactory.com/exhibit

Catersource was up next! One of the largest catering conventions in the nation, it is a place where the best of the best learn all the newest trends in the culinary arts! Las Vegas and the finest cuisine simply go hand in hand!
www.catersource.com

Then the 2011 Mobile Beat Las Vegas DJ Show flooded the airways! What better location could there be for America's finest to ROCK IT OUT? http://www.mobilebeat.com/las-vegas-dj-show/

Now, here's the fun part...WE'RE NEXT!!!! Rock Star Wedding Planner presents Grace and Luxury: How to Attract, Work With, and Be Referred By The High-End Bride. And guess who the emcee is??? TONYA J. SHADOAN! You go girl! We are all so excited and proud of you! The last time they went out there, they had this INSANE idea to bring a florist on board (aka, ME!)...Wonder what they'll come up with this time? Can't wait to find out!
http://www.rockstarweddingplanner.com/live/

While we are there, we get to do what we love THE MOST!!!! We are going to do site inspections and planning for our "2011 Bride of the Year", Miss Kassie P.! We are honored to be planning, coordinating, and floral designing for her destination wedding in Las Vegas this fall. Her wedding is going to be UH-MAZING!!! We love you and can't wait to put this together for you!!! Big PINK Las Vegas hugs and kisses to you and Ryan!!!




Ok Event Buddies, tell us about your experience there!

Randi's Guest blog for Ada Photography!

When Cory & Jackie asked Circle City Planners to do a guest blog for Ada Photography I was so excited to get the chance to connect with a great photographer in the Indianapolis area! Circle City Planners & Circle City Designers are sister companies based in the Carmel Arts District. We can do anything from full service coordination, day of coordination, floral design, and any design elements you want to see on your wedding day. But, at Circle City Planner & Designers, “It’s All About the Girl”. So I thought I would focus on the bride in my guest spot!

Here are five practical tips that can help any bride have a fun and stress free wedding day!

Create a Wedding Day “Emergency Kit”

Create an “emergency kit” for those unexpected emergencies or that is something your planner should have already put together. Consider an "emergency kit" filled with items you may need on your wedding day. Fill a small bag with items such as a travel size sewing kit, clear nail polish, an extra set of socks in case a groomsmen forgets his, throat lozenges, and aspirin. Other ideas for the "emergency kit" include tissues, breath mints, Bobbi pins, lotion, and band-aids. Also, make sure to have a make-up touch up kit that can be provided be your make-up artist.

Food for Thought

Start your wedding day with healthy and filling nourishment. I always tell me brides you really should consider having something to eat before the wedding, no matter how worried you are about how the dress fits! Protein bars or just a small sandwich are great things to hold you over! While food may be the last thing on your mind on your wedding day, it's nonetheless important that you start the day off right. It's going to be a long (and wonderful) day and you'll want to have plenty of energy so you can keep dancing and socializing for hours!

If the Shoe Fits

You know those stunning, sexy, strappy, ultra-high heels that work perfectly with your wedding gown? They'll be great for the ceremony and for the formal pictures, but if you're planning to kick up your heels at the reception, you'll be better off kicking off the heels and settling into something more comfortable. So get a pretty, more practical pair of shoes that you can change into to keep your dogs from "barking"! Footzyrolls are the perfect shoe for you or your bridesmaids as a gift! They are cute, comfortable, and roll-up in your purse!

Leave it to the Coordinator

Keep track of time with an itinerary and a point person. Whether you've worked with a wedding consultant or carefully planned everything yourself, you should have an itinerary for the big day. At the rehearsal, your day of coordinator can give them to your bridal party or close family members. You will be able to rest easy knowing that everything is taken care of and your coordinator will keep track of the time while you're busy greeting those out-of-town guests and brand new in-laws whose names you can't quite remember!

Last But Not Least

What should be at the top of every bride's list on the day of her wedding is to relax and enjoy it! Whether you've been working with a wedding consultant or have done all the planning and preparation on your own, it's now the big day and you deserve to have at least as much fun as any of your guests!

A BIG THANKS to Cory & Jackie for letting me share with all the brides out there!!

XOXO,

Randi

www.circlecityplanners.com

317.770.4321

Circle City Planners has TIGER BLOOD!!!!! We're WINNING all over the place!

We may not have adonis DNA, but we are ROCK STARS this year! So many exciting things going on that we get to plan, or be a part of, or tell YOU about!

This is set to be our busiest year yet, and we are ready! Despite the economy taking a dive, people are still getting married! And we are creating some of our most fabulous events to date! Its been amazing to be a part of growing company! It just proves that event planners are worth their weight in gold, and tend to save you money overall. And hey, the florist in the building is pretty awesome herself!

First comes our big news that we were selected for the Bride's Choice Awards from the Wedding Wire! Being in the top 5 percent of our industry all over the nation is pretty exciting! This is a great resource for brides in the planning process. Click the link above to check us out.

Next come's our BIG night tonight!!!!! The International Special Events Society for Indiana will be hosting the PACE Awards tonight recognizing Professional Achievement in Special Events. We are so honored to be up for one of those coveted awards. Be keeping your fingers crossed for us!!!! Last year, we won the coveted, NATIONAL ISES Esprit Award for "Best Team Effort for an event over 200K". So, it would sure be great to add to our successes tonight! Go TEAM GO!

This Sunday, we are SO excited to unveil our designs for Art of the Table. Our table last year made it's way into the BBJ catalog, along with another one of our weddings. We are just ON FIRE! Come see us Sunday at the Columbia from 12-4 pm. Tickets are still available at the door. $12.00 per person. See Indy's BEST designers strut their stuff!

Looking for something else to do this weekend? Bliss Boutique Bridal and Tux is having a trunk show for their new Kathy Ireland line! These are great destination gowns, stunning sexy gowns, classic ball gowns - and all with an impeccable fit. Brides can go to the (new) site or to our facebook page for more info. And, of course, call (317) 852-5966 for an appointment.

Happy Planning, and have a WINNING weekend!!!!

Hugs, The CCPINK team

Circle City Planners Wins Bride's Choice Awards!

Wedding Wire Bride's Choice Awards 2011! Circle City Planners is proud to be THE BEST!

WeddingWire, the nation’s leading wedding technology company, is thrilled to announce Circle City Planners has been selected to receive the prestigious annual WeddingWire Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011 as one of the BEST WEDDING PLANNERS in the business! Recognition for the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011 is determined by recent reviews and extensive surveys from over 750,000 WeddingWire newlyweds. Our past clients are among those that shared their experiences on WeddingWire, the largest wedding review site in the nation. Circle City Planners stands among the top five percent of wedding professionals in the WeddingWire community, representing quality and service excellence within the wedding industry. Awards were given to the top wedding professionals across 20 service categories, from wedding venues to wedding photographers, and were based on the overall professional achievements throughout the past year. “WeddingWire is honored to celebrate the success of the top-rated wedding professionals within the WeddingWire community,” said Timothy Chi, WeddingWire’s Chief Executive Officer. “With the annual Bride’s Choice Awards™ program, WeddingWire has the unique opportunity to recognize the best wedding professionals across the US and Canada. We applaud Circle City Planners for their professionalism and dedication to enhancing the wedding planning experience last year.” We are happy to announce that Circle City Planners is among the very best wedding planners within the WeddingWire Network, which includes leading wedding planning sites WeddingWire, Martha Stewart Weddings, Project Wedding and Weddingbee. We would like to thank our past clients for nominating us to receive the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011. For more information, please visit our WeddingWire Storefront today at Circle City Planners on WeddingWire.com. For more information on the Bride’s Choice Awards™ 2011, please visit www.WeddingWire.com. About WeddingWire, Inc. WeddingWire.com, the nation's leading technology company serving the $70 billion wedding industry, is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding professionals. For engaged couples, WeddingWire offers the ability to search, compare and book over 200,000 local wedding vendors, from wedding venues to wedding photographers to wedding cakes. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools for weddings, including wedding websites and wedding checklists, all at no charge. For wedding professionals, WeddingWire provides free online management tools creating the only market opportunity that gives local businesses control over their clients, reviews, leads and performance. Businesses that join the WeddingWire Network appear on WeddingWire.com and other leading sites, including MarthaStewartWeddings.com (NYSE: MSO), ProjectWedding.com and Weddingbee.com (both part of eHarmony), and Celebrations.com (part of the 1-800-Flowers family of brands, NASDAQ: FLWS).