The Wedding Experience. March 7, 2010.

I recently teamed with a national, publicly traded company to create a Wedding Show in Grand Rapids, Michigan on March 7, 2010. As any bride-to-be knows, there are many wedding shows, so in creating a new show, it had to be different. This show is a Wedding Show, brought to brides by a Wedding Planner.

While tradeshows have a functional purpose, they are not pretty and it is hard for individual vendors to really stand out and showcase their work. Brides easily find themselves overwhelmed and jumping from booth to booth. It's hard to foster creative ideas in that type of environment. The approach that I took was to create a show that set the stage and built the image for potential clients to match up with potential vendors.

I approached Grand Rapid's premier hotel (who's building was at one point among the Top 10 Hotels in the U.S.) and was able to gain permission to utilize their facilities. My show which has been titled "The Wedding Experience" truly takes brides through the experience of a wedding day. Showcasing three of Amway Grand Plaza's gorgeous ballrooms, each room is set for a particular part of a wedding and highlights vendors that pertain to that portion of the wedding. The center of the room is adorned with items on display as vendors are throughout the room's perimeter.

The Pantlind Ballroom will be set as a wedding ceremony with ceremony chairs, an aisle, etc. and vendors displaying their products that are used in a ceremony.

The Gerald R. Ford Ballroom will be set for the dinner with tables displaying vendor's linens, centerpieces, menus, etc.

The Imperial Ballroom is a great old bank that has been converted to a ballroom. The bank's original decor has been preserved with large columns. This room will feature a dancefloor, tall cocktail tables and live music as you would find during a reception.

In addition, The Wedding Experience is teaming with area high schools and will be collecting gently worn bridesmaid and other formal dresses. These dresses will be donated to area girls to be used during the upcoming prom season.

We are all busy working to match vendors with this opportunity and to start getting the word out about the show. It's going to be a magical day and truly a Wedding Experience.

www.grweddingexperience.com

Blogging

When I started this blog, I wasn't completely sure which direction it would take. Which angle I would go after. But like all events and all weddings, each post has taken on its own characteristic. There are many sites out there that tell you the most popular color or the rules of etiquette; I'm sure now and then, I'll touch on those areas, but overall my blog is to provide a sense of who I am and what my style is. It's also a justification for my English degree and provides a fun avenue for writing about topics I enjoy.

It is so amazing when I receive feedback on my blog's posts. I love the random comments that I receive, many from people I do not know. When opening today's mail, there were a few last minute Christmas cards, a lot of information about holiday sales and one special note from a lady in Cincinnati whom I have never met but had a brief call with last week. In a much approved fashion, she wrote me a very timely thank you note on personal stationery. She ended the note by saying "please keep blogging."

I am humbled, flattered and can only respond by saying thank you to all who are reading this. The comments help me grow both professionally and personally, so please continue to send them.

I also adore personal stationery and hand written notes and know that this lady will go far because of this simple gesture. Letters cannot be taken for granted and the art cannot be lost. A txt message or email will never replace the grace that is shown when the time is taken to pen a few words.

This photo was taken when I was shopping for stationery at one of my favorite stores Gus & Ruby in Portsmouth, NH. These girls know, understand, live and breathe stationery (and invitations if you're in the market). And funny enough, this photo was posted on a blog about their store. I would have brushed the back of my hair had I known I was posing, but c'est la vie.

Santa Came Early for Lilybrooke

The store's sign is up!

I can't wait to plant spring flowers

around the window.

Warm wishes for a

wonderful Christmas holiday season.

J.McLaughlin

My inner preppy (or even my outer preppy, it's not much of a secret) was introduced to the J.McLaughlin brand several years ago when I fell head over heels for their pants embroidered with lobsters and other amazing creatures. They were brilliant.

Now as a girl addicted to dresses, I so admire their 3/4 sleeve Harbor Dress that comes in so many beautiful styles that I'd take one of each if given the opportunity and lifestyle to wear them everyday.

As the charmed life of Brooke Sheldon continues (titled dubbed by my attorney), I was lucky enough to become friends with a man who is among the helm of the J.McLaughlin company. And even luckier yet to have an opportunity to catch up with him in New York last week. It's a bit intimidating to meet with a man who knows more about women's fashion than I can ever dream, but I so enjoyed the chance to catch up and brainstorm.

With all that is going on in the world, it is such a wonderful opportunity to reevaluate and become creative with my business plan. I love this challenge and aside of the uneasiness that many are feeling, it has been nice to watch people focus on things that are truly important.

My inner prep has met my outer entrepreneur and worlds are colliding. It's a bit like this J.McLaughlin silk fleece shawl. Are you kidding me. Stunning. I need it.

To everything there is a season.

I own a home that is rented out in the summer months to tourist who visit the beautiful beaches along Lake Michigan. With this responsibility, I have two annual weekends throughout the year that I love. The weekend when I get the house ready for the rental season. And the weekend when I get the house ready for me to nestle in for the winter.

It's slightly a pain. Well, more than a slight pain, but after a few years, I have a good system down and really enjoy the opportunity to have "spring cleaning" twice a year. It is a great time to go through all that I own, organize and reevaluate the necessity of clothing in my closet.

Today is the day I am starting the winter cleanse. The closets have been unlocked, the linens are being changed over, as are the dishes. I recently brought items from the refrigerator in the garage to the refrigerator in the house. Unpacking those long forgotten leftover condiments makes me smile with memories of wonderful summer parties and dinners with friends.

It is a time of year when my life and event planning has a its own solstice, changing from the non-stop rush of execution and travel, to the filing, the organizing, the planning and volunteering.

It's a enchanting day in Michigan that began with my dog taking me for a walk along the near frozen lake, snow that has been falling for hours and fires burning in two of my fireplaces. I've included a few photos from one of last winter's storms.

To everything there is a season. Here's to a short winter season as I look forward to all the exciting things that 2010 will have to offer: Lilybrooke Events, mid-term elections, Olympics, World Cup, and so much more. Some things yet unscheduled and many things yet unknown.

Lilybrooke Boutique. Our New Home.

Finally I have photos of the new Lilybrooke Boutique.We love our new location and have already been meeting with clients and showing guests around. The boutique boasts bridesmaid's gifts, guest welcome baskets, amazing rental items on display and of course a ton of photos of the weddings and events we have been lucky enough to be part of. It is a place where you can see, touch and feel the items you would like at your wedding or party - a great place to brainstorm and gather ideas.

Sadly, today is the last day of the store's normal business hours for the season. I am packing up and heading to Michigan for the winter to plan weddings, political events and a few sport events as well; stopping in NYC to meet with two potential clients. Tomorrow will be a long day. But road trips are always fun and a great time for new ideas to percolate.

Lilybrooke will continue to be open all winter and spring by appointment with one of my assistants, so please continue to call and visit with your requests.

If you're Tying the Knot in Kennebunkport, we'd love to meet you.

All Things Kate Spade

I adore Kate Spade and was so excited when my friend Anna showed me her recent acquisition of a Kate Spade thermos. I am worshipping it and must find one. Mostly because I think it would look amazing with my black and white polka dotted Wellies.

Plllleeaassseee Santa.

Favorite Quote of the Day

I love nice people. I love nice people who say what they are thinking and make the world a better place (especially when I'm on the receiving end of a compliment). The biggest compliments I have received are when former clients come back to me for advice. This week I had the opportunity to brainstorm with two amazing women on their projects. Below are my two favorite emails that I received this week.

No.1

"Oh Brooke, I adore you! This is more helpful than you realize. I actually printed it out and have been carrying it around with me! You are an invaluable resource."

No.2

"I am so excited at the thought of you offering products online…because knowing whatever you put out there will be nothing less than FABULOUS!!"

If you love something, let someone know.

Lilybrooke Store Photo Shoot

As the new Lilybrooke store gets up and running, the website is also being improved with items that will soon be available for purchase online. Over the years, the largest demand has been for custom hotel welcome baskets, but we have several items for bridesmaids, flower girls and even a few wedding gifts.

Getting ready for the new launch, today we had a photoshoot of the different products that will be available. Many thanks to our friends at C.A. Smith Photography www.casmithphotography.com for their photography, patience and great artistic eye!

Christmas Prelude cont.

My first Christmas Prelude has come and gone, but the memories will take years to erode. I loved every minute of it and only wish I could have been able to participate in multiple things at once.

Attached are few photos of the hot chocolate topping display outside of the store and my wonderful toy soldier who bravely passed out fresh mistletoe at the tree lighting ceremony. She was mobbed by participants wanting the berries or simply wanting to take a photo with her. A new Prelude tradition is born.

Christmas Prelude

I'm getting ready for Kennebunkport's Christmas Prelude; an annual Christmas festival. This is my first Prelude and I am eagerly awaiting its arrival after hearing of it for years. On Friday evening there will be a tree lighting ceremony where a Lilybrooke representative will be dressed as a toy-soldier passing out mistletoe. Attached are photos of the work in progress. 'Tis the Season.

Lilybrooke Boutique...On the Move

This week I said good-bye to the first commercial space I have ever leased. It was a bittersweet day, as I took a few

last photos and packed the moving truck to take the store's contents two miles to its new, more fabulous, home on Ocean Avenue in Kennebunkport.

My first space was good to me and provided me with several new clients, lots of friendly visits, a wonderful view and some new good friends. The carpet wasn't much to look at, but it served its purpose (and then some). But the space lead me on to what I am sure will be bigger and better things.

Photos of the new store are coming soon, but included are a few from the grand open house in July. More than 60 people (including two very special friends) came out on a rainy evening to wish me well. I look forward to creating more memories in the store's new home.

Lilybrooke on Creative Tableware

Creative Tableware

Think outside the plain white china box with unconventional place settings

By Anna Sachse
CTW Features

Whether it's plates with an usual shape or pattern, colored glass goblets, mismatched vintage pieces, wooden dishes and utensils or place settings that complement your theme or locale, creative tableware makes for a more interesting tablescape and lends automatic personality to your event.

Because the standard basic items (round, white plates, clear glasses, uninspired silverware) are easily available, the option for different tableware is often overlooked when contemplating wedding reception décor, says Brooke Sheldon, a wedding planner with Lilybrooke Events in Kennebunkport, Maine. But the possibilities are really only limited by your imagination.

China Policy

Start with the china. The easiest way to change things up is with pattern, says Anne Chertoff, senior editor for Brides.com. Instead of going with the basic white china, brighten up your tablescape with plates that feature colorful flowers or bold scroll work around the borders, and don't be afraid to mix and match if it suits the tone of your soiree. For example, at a wedding held at a former private mansion, Sheldon used mismatched antique Victorian china, including coffee cup and saucer. "Each place setting was completely unique in terms of color and style," says Sheldon, "but they all complemented each other and contributed to the overall historic, formal feel of the event."

Selecting china with a glaze that matches your wedding colors or décor also is an option; however, you want to be careful that both color and pattern don't detract from the presentation of the food. Many chefs tend to prefer Asian-inspired colors such as matte black, mustard yellow and soft celadon green. "The plate is essentially a canvas for the meal," says Chertoff, "so, before settling on unusual china, meet with your caterer to ensure the food you are serving will still look its very best."

If you'd prefer to stick with white, consider going with an unusual shape, such as ovals, diamonds or triangles, for the entrée or use multiple shapes to really make a statement with each course. According to Sheldon, square plates are particularly popular right now. "They add a modern, architectural feel to the décor," she says, especially atop square tables, which are also a new trend.

The Glass Game

Another easy way to add flair to your tabletop is with the glassware. Try large water goblets in soft hues that let the light through, says Sheldon, or opt for brightly colored tumblers to match a fiesta theme, says Chertoff. Mason jars, both big and small, have also been a popular choice lately at outdoor weddings or receptions with a farm or country feel - use them for water, iced tea or a signature cocktail. And don't stop there: vintage champagne glasses or silver-rimmed tumblers add old-fashioned elegance; coffee served in mismatched teacups amps up the charm; or, for a truly offbeat wedding, consider personalizing drinking mugs and giving them to guests as favors after dinner.

Flatware That Shine

Although there are fewer options for flatware that really makes a striking statement, you can still get choosy about the shape and material. Modern flatware, with a thin, narrow, straight handle, is an easy way to manipulate a plain white plate into something more sophisticated, says Sheldon. Or, if your wedding has a casual, picnic-like feel, look into bamboo flatware or other "green" utensils. An Asian-inspired celebration might benefit from chopsticks. "Just be sure that you also have forks available for guests who aren't chopstick-savvy," says Chertoff.

Well-Placed Style

Ethnicity, history, formality, personal style, the venue and the town where you are getting married can all play a part in inspiring interesting tableware choices. Keep in mind, however, that while unconventional items can really tie the table together or even take the place of elaborate centerpieces, you don't want to overdo it. The first reason is that it could end up looking tacky and distract from the main focus of the night, which is your marriage! The second reason is budget-related.

"If you already have to rent your china, there may not be a big difference between the price of square plates and circles, or between plain white and patterns," says Chertoff. "But if you don't have to rent, asking for something special could up the cost significantly."

In these instances, you might want to stick to just one unusual item, such as quirky flute for the champagne toast or a playful plate for the dessert, or consider getting more creative with your linen and placemats.

Copyright © CTW Features

Happy Birthday Lilybrooke!

It may be a bit narcissistic to celebrate your own business's birthday. But, instead, I see it as an opportunity to eat cake (guilt free). It's hard to pin point the day my business really began. Some times I think it started when I began to take home office supplies, when I realized I was excited entering a Staples store, or maybe it was in the 6th grade when I made my mother bring me home the Wall Street Journal every night from her office.

You're either an entrepreneur, a risk taker, or you're not. I live and thrive in crisis. Isn't that really what event planning is all about - being the person who is willing to make a decision and willing to be responsible for that decision?

My business was a work in progress for many years before I had a tax ID. I've always believed that if you maintain a thought for longer than a year, you should act on that thought. So, on November 9, 2004, I walked into my appointment with my accountant and officially started Lilybrooke Events (well...it had a different name in the beginning, but the business model was the same). That meeting took 15 minutes and I was officially a small business owner.

Thank you to everyone who has been there to support, house, encourage and bounce ideas with me. I could not have done it without them. I look forward to many many more candles and pieces of cake - both birthday and wedding!

Martha Stewart Living, April 1996

I remember the month. I remember the day. I remember the issue and where I was sitting as I read it. My first Martha Stewart Living magazine. I had recently moved to Washington, DC where magnolias were a new experience for me, but there they were, on the cover of this beautiful magazine. This one magazine has lasted the test of time on my list of must haves. I read it for design and style, I read it for inspiration, I read it for recipes. I often read it for the first time a month or even a year after I receive it.

Through the evolution of my career and my existence as a renter and later a home owner, going back through my years of Martha Stewart magazines has proved invaluable. I now own every issue since that first copy in April of 1996.

When planning a winter, fall, or summer, etc. party, I look back on the issues from the months of that season and see what the different issues had to offer. It helps me to gather ideas to spawn new creations. I'm still stunned at how often I look back, simply to move forward. But as Coco Chanel said "fashion passes, style remains."

As I get ready to move the Lilybrooke Boutique to its new location about two miles from its current home, I have been searching for ideas and ways to pull together my new blank canvas of a store. While looking at the current issue of Martha Stewart Living, it made note of the Decorating Issue from September 2005. I quickly jumped from my seat and pulled it from the shelf.

I can't wait to see if it gives me a fresh perspective on the design for the space. For now, it gave me an idea for my blog.

More from Katie and Adam's wedding

Katie and her father

dancing under the portico at

the Daughters of the American Revolution

the cake

centerpieces

happily ever after.

In Defense of Wedding Planners

I am beyond upset at the Knot right now at their recent article titled "Confessions of Wedding Planners".

For all of you brides out there who read every word of this generally usefully magazine, please know that your wedding vendors are there to help you. Below is the letter I wrote in response to the Knot.


I was so sad to read Meredith Bodgas' article titled "Confessions of Wedding Planners". As wedding vendors, we all work incredibly hard and long hours and are in the business because we enjoy what we do (or we shouldn't be in the business). I'm beyond frustrated at what was written and truly feel that the planners you interviewed have no business being a wedding planner and working with brides.

During my initial meeting with brides, I always tell them to think of me as their personal assistant. That is what we are there for. Or at least, that is what my brides hire me to be. I expect my clients to think of me as a personal confidant and would rather they get upset and vent to me than to cause unnecessary friction with their family or other vendors. I am there to ease their worries. Doesn't every wedding planner claim to "take the stress out of the big day"?

The professionals you interviewed need to learn to be professionals. If they feel that something is not in the job description that they created, they should say so (or hold their peace and not complain about it later). Brides are new to all of the situations and relationships that they are being exposed to. Wedding planners should be there to walk them through it all, even if you sometimes have to be tough and tell the bride something they don't want to hear.

I am frequently asked to tell the stories about "bridezillas" and even though I have had some unique requests and some challenging situations, I am always excited about that challenge. I do not consider any of my former or current brides to be "bridezillas" as I set the expectations up front with all of my clients. If I don't get along with a potential bride or am unable to see their vision, I don't accept the job. It becomes an intimate relationship throughout the year, so both the bride and the planner should be on the same page. I believe that I have been hired to be the problem solver, not to make excuses.

Wedding planners often are seen as a luxury and potentially an unnecessary expense. I would love to tell my clients to pay me after their wedding as I have yet to have a bride who does not realize the amazing value that wedding planners add to their overall experience. I am extremely disappointed that a wedding magazine would try to discredit the wonderful work that so many planners do.

Lilybrooke on Baby Shower Etiquette

Baby shower etiquette and planning tips

Michelle Bruns Maffei

What better way to celebrate the pending arrival of a new baby than by honoring your favorite mom-to-be with a baby shower? Should you throw a baby shower for the second child? Who should host? We answer your top baby shower etiquette questions so you can host a baby shower that will knock their booties off.

Not sure where to start on your baby shower planning? “My advice is to make it fun and simple. It should be a fun time for the guests, as well” offers Brooke Sheldon, event planner, Lilybrooke Events. “So, keep it light and almost cocktail party or birthday party style.”

Ready to plan the baby shower of the century? Brush up on these baby shower basics before you even plan your first detail:

Who can host the baby shower?
Traditionally, family was not “allowed” to host the big bash, but times are a-changing as fast as baby’s diaper! From aunties to godmothers to friends, the hostess with the mostest is whoever wants to honor the pending arrival of your sweet pea.

The exception to the rule? According to professional family organizer Tonia Tomlin, “The only people who should not host the shower are grandmothers-to-be, and the mother-to-be herself.” If you do not fall into either of these categories, host away!

Family showers, co-worker showers & friend showers
From family to coworkers to friends (or those that fit in multiple categories), the guest list can be as long as the first night a new mom brings home her new bambino from the hospital. Many expecting moms will have multiple baby showers thrown by co-workers and family.

Whether you choose to host a family-only baby shower, women-only luncheon, co-worker celebration, or co-ed babyfest, keep the guests lists separate, and only host one bash. “Be sure to not invite the same people to multiple parties even if they cross over. Or, if you do, let them know you either don’t expect them to attend both, or you for sure don’t expect a gift for both,” advises Sheldon.

When should you have the baby shower?
Whether you choose to host the baby shower before the bundle of joy arrives or turn it into a welcoming party for the newborn, getting the Mommy-to-be’s blessing is best. Although you can throw a celebration all the way up to the due date, “most showers for women carrying a single baby take place about two months in advance of the delivery date,” suggests Tomlin.

“For women carrying multiples, the shower should take place no later than the fifth month of gestation.” Just remember to send out invitations at least four weeks in advance.

Should you throw a baby shower for the 2nd baby?
The debate is long when it comes to the etiquette for throwing a baby shower for a family who’s expecting a child that is not their first. But, in today’s modern times, if the sex of the baby is different than the preceding child(ren) or so many years have past that essential baby gear has long gone, let the festivities begin.

Pro tip? “I would suggest making the invitation more fun and about the celebration of the baby vs. giving gifts to get the parents started, “offers Sheldon. “Focus more on a celebration for the new little one.”

Although the etiquette for throwing a baby shower has evolved, the goal remains the same: have fun and celebrate this new life. So, grab a pen, gauge your favorite mommy-to-be’s wishes, and start planning!

http://pregnancyandbaby.sheknows.com/pregnancy/Detailed/Baby-shower-etiquette-and-planning-tips-6432.htm

My "Must Haves" when traveling

I just landed in Miami (directly after spending 7 days in Chicago). I'm often asked how I travel as much as I do. When I pack, I think through what my days away will consist of. I pick out my clothes and write down what I plan to wear each day (including shoes, jewelry, etc.) I then add a few of my favorite pieces as extras in case (and in hopes of!) something impromptu popping up. When I'm on a trip, I try to stick to the plan as much as possible, maybe switching the days around here and there if I don't feel like wearing a specific thing that day. It sounds boring and over-scheduled, but it's great to not have to think about what you are going to put on.

I also make sure I have my favorite things with me. My "must haves" for traveling.

#1 A Pashmina. Anyone who knows me, knows I don't leave the house without one. It fits easily in a handbag and is perfect if you're cold as a scarf, or as a blanket on an airplane. It can even roll into a makeshift pillow when needed. Everyone should have one. Scratch that. Everyone should have one in every color!

#2 My Make Up Give Train Case. Yes, it does actually take up 1/4th of my suitcase, but it includes anything that I need for my washroom routine. And everything has a place. I couldn't live without it. I've even given you a sneak peak into the inside of my case. https://www.shopgive.com/product_info.php?products_id=42

#3 My ipod. Of course. You never know when you're going to have an opportunity to explore the area with a run, so having my music with me provides even more incentive. And to this note, I will add my camera (and laptop). I don't leave home without them!

#4 Traveling with so many electronics means traveling with many cords to keep them all running. I have one bag specifically for all my electronics

- phone charger, camera charger, camera cord to upload photos, ipod charger,

and an extra USB because you never know...

#5 And finally, all of my items go in my Tumi bag that I adore. I rarely check my bag when traveling and since my suitcase is such a large part of my life, it's more of an accessory. A handbag. Good luggage is worth the investment. Good luggage with a great warranty is even better.

And now you know what makes traveling easier for me. I figured out what items I always had with me and then I gave them each a home in my suitcase. Of course there are the standards: eat fruits and veggies, drink lots of water, get plenty of sleep. And when going through security at the airport: put your items on the belt in the order that you want to take them off 1) shoes, 2) bag that holds laptop (so you can open it and have it ready, 3) laptop, 4) suitcase. And you're off!

Happy Travels!