An Engagement Story: Conor and Taylor

I mentioned yesterday on social media outlets that we absolutely adore getting new clients. I love the idea that so many couples have chosen myself and Team ACE to plan, coordinate and design their weddings. It tugs at my heart strings every time. I love working with these clients throughout one of the most exciting times of their lives, and I love sharing them with you.

It's funny...each time I share one of these engagement stories, I contact the client to find out a bit more about their story. What makes them tick. How they fell in love. You know, the mushy stuff. But I don't usually share word for word as that's not my style. However, this time when I emailed the client, our groom wrote back. And I love what he had to say about how they met:
    
     We met through a series of common acquaintances. I was at a party at a fellow rugby player's house one Saturday afternoon. Yes, a party in the afternoon. Taylor was hanging out with her friend two doors down. Being the well-lubricated, social butterfly that I am, I decided our man-party needed a feminine presence... and not the usual type that hung out with the rugby team. Maybe I should capitalize feminine. I invited them to come over, but they declined due to it being "movie day."

This is probably as good a time as any to describe my wardrobe selection that day. I woke up that morning and decided that it was a good "sweater vest and jeans" sort of day. Later, I realized that was a bad idea as it got hotter. Not wanting to miss a minute of the action, I quickly grabbed a pair of scissors and fashioned myself a brand new pair of jean shorts (jorts). Back to the story.

     In my opinion, there is no movie, or series of movies that could come anywhere near as much fun as hanging out with the rugby team. Not to mention it was a beautiful day and our parties rarely ever took place exclusively Inside. My determination getting the better of me, I walked with Taylor and her friend to the house and managed to talk them into coming over. Though I could tell immediately Taylor was impressed by my style and fashion sense. I was of course drawn to Taylor because she's... Taylor. Have you met her? She's so alluring. And I was smitten. 

     The party itself was uneventful. In the weeks after we exchanged texts and Facebook messages. It wasn't until we hung out at the pool a few weeks later that we really started seeing each other. From then on, we were inseparable.

(I knew I was going to love them from the start, both are CNU alumni and she's a former CNU cheerleader...just like me! It was meant to be)

First, Conor shared a few images of the moment he proposed to Taylor:

How I asked her to marry me:

     As much as I wanted to bring back the sweater vest and jorts for this occasion, I resisted. Instead I planned an extravagant public display of love and bad singing. We met in Port Warwick and frequented Port Warwick Square while I was living in the area. Taylor's dad has a work out studio (cue shameless plug for Brian Cole & Associates) in the square. The brick gazebo in the middle of the square seemed like the perfect place to stage a surprise engagement.

     Just like the "how we met" story, I need to cut away for some background. Taylor had been nannying for a family with 3 kids, or nuggets as she calls them. She was, and still is, very much in love with them! Back to the big plan.

     The scheme was to have the family come visit from Williamsburg so Larry (the dad) could work out with Taylor's dad. Larry would then call Taylor and ask her to watch the kids while he was busy... and would you look at that, that big grassy area near the brick gazebo is the perfect place to take the kids! I would be standing on the steps of the gazebo, guitar in hand ready to sing either "Then" by Brad Paisley or "God gave me you" by Blake Shelton. Side note: those were the ONLY two songs playing on my iPod for weeks so I could learn every single syllable. Wow. What a great idea! It all changed the second I got the ring.

     

     All it took was having the ring in my hand to know that there was NO way I was waiting for this plan to come together. Plus, I was still a terrible guitar player. I was standing in our kitchen with the ring in my hand when our little dachshund Riley came prancing along (we got Riley together as a Christmas present to each other). I picked Riley up, attached the ring to her collar, and joined Taylor on the back porch. Ah, but not before setting up my iPhone on the counter to record the whole thing through the glass door.

     I sat down across from Taylor and put Riley on my lap. I was very much ok with letting this drag out a little because even though I was sure Taylor would say yes, it was still a HUGE deal! I pet Riley for a minute before she crawled over to Taylor's lap. I did my best not to crack a smile at her unknowingly petting the ring wielding wiener dog. I took a few screen shots of the event and made it my Facebook cover photo. I'll attached it to this email so you can get an idea of what went on. The only thing you can't tell from the photos is that she forgot to say yes!

(Thanks Heather Hughes Photography for these great engagement photos. 

Aren't they a GORGEOUS couple?). 

Cool Product Alert: The Wedding Party App!

Hey Brides and Grooms! While searching aimlessly on Pinterest, I came across a new fun new app! So of course, we wanted to share it with you right away! The Wedding Party App is currently perfect for IPhone users (and android users in the very near future!). This App is so easy "even your flower girl can use it" (it's true, their site even says so!). Print out the sites great "place card directions" so your guests know what to do, upload your images and share away!

The registration is simple,you may sign up using your e-mail or through Facebook. You design your own cover photo, notify your guests and let the uploads begin!

Scratch Weddings

Throughout this month we have shared with you a variety of vendors from around the nation that inspire us for numerous different reasons, and of course, what inspires them! Today we thought we'd end the month with one more awesome vendor, Rob Principe and Scratch Weddings.

First we'd like for you to meet Rob:
Rob Principe is one of the world’s leading experts on the DJ and music industry and the founder and chief executive officer of Scratch Music Group, a venture-backed, high-growth music and technology company that is the nation’s leader in DJ booking, technology and music education. An internationally-recognized brand, Scratch Music Group is comprised of three business units: Scratch Events, which provides DJ talent  for some of the most influential brands in the world; Scratch DJ Academy, the world's leading DJ learning center, which Principe co-founded with the late Jam Master Jay of Run DMC; and Scratch Weddings, the nation’s leading provider of highly skilled, experienced and affordable marquee DJs for weddings.

We asked Rob a few questions about the inspiration of Scratch Weddings, their brand and outlook on the event world...Here is what he had had to say!

1. What was your inspiration in the creation of Scratch Weddings?
Given the success of our events business, clients began approaching us for their own personal events and weddings.  We felt honored that they would entrust one of the biggest nights of their lives to our DJ services and saw an opportunity to provide a level of quality, skill and professionalism that was unprecedented and do so nationwide.  Based on the needs of our existing customers we were inspired to launch Scratch Weddings and provide all couples with their choice of highly experienced and affordable marquee wedding DJs through the most stress-free and hassle-free process.

2. Where is an unexpected place, that you have found new inspiration for furthering the vision of Scratch Weddings?
Music is very personal and it’s important to find entertainment that fits your style and taste; we recognize how critical that is when planning such a momentous event!  Our goal is to personalize and deliver an experience that will make your event unique. We are able to achieve this by providing the most skilled DJs in the space who can build a soundtrack around even the most out-of-the-box requests. And what inspires us to continue to do this? Comments like these from happy clients:

“Scratch should be everyone's first choice for their wedding DJ. That's all there is to it. The service is impeccable, their DJ's are incredibly talented, and their crews are like ninjas with the equipment set-up and strike. All of this makes for a 100% worry-free day with guaranteed success on the dance floor.”

3. What is one piece of advice you would give to a bride looking for inspiration, in beginning with her search for an amazing event flow and music selection?
Since every couple comes in with a different vision for what they want out of their night, we have a list of questions to help guide them through the decision-making process. And we encourage our couples to explore what’s possible by providing examples and options.   The choice of wedding DJ should fit this vision and to help them achieve that, here at Scratch, we hand pick several wedding DJs from our team based on a couples interests and provide them with bios that include videos, mixes and photos to make the perfect match.  Once a choice is made, the couple has the opportunity to meet with the DJ for a live demo. In addition, they can have DJs simultaneously perform along with musicians; couples can even learn to DJ a short set at our Scratch DJ Academy and wow their guests with a performance of their own, and have a mosh pit on the dance floor if that is their desire.  It is their night, and we want to help make it the most memorable.

Monday Meeting: Stephanie Greeves

It's Monday! And you know what that means...another fabulous event vendor to introduce you to! Today, we'd like you to meet Stephanie Greeves...not your typical wedding vendor, but someone that most brides can agree, she's someone they'd love to meet and work with before (and after) their big day. Stephanie is a born and raised Virginia Beach gal with an extraordinary dance background. She has taken her love for dance and fitness and combined them into one...her dance studio Center Stage Dance Company started offering fitness classes this past year and they are a humongous hit (and the studio is packed).  Zumba is a fave of ours...but the studio also offers stretching and conditioning classes. (and you can even see a few of our staff in their adult tap classes). 

Meet Stephanie:

A few ZUMBA regulars performing our love for fitness at the annual Fairfield Fall Festival.
(Instructor, Stephanie Greeves, in Center)

What is your dance and fitness background?Dancing has been a part of my life for the past 30 years.  I began dancing as a toddler and haven't stopped since!  My dance training involved a variety of styles of dance including ballet, tap, jazz, modern, pointe, and contemporary.  I grew up in a local dance studio which gave me an amazing foundation for dance.  I also trained with master teachers in the area to further develop my teaching style and help me become a stronger dancer.  Most recently, I obtained my Zumba Instructor's License....exercising has never been so much fun! 

What made you leave teaching career to pursue opening a dance studio?

My love for children and my passion for dance were the perfect marriage and instrumental in my decision to open a dance studio!  I was formerly a Kindergarten and First Grade teacher (in addtion to a dance instructor).  I was given the opportunity to host a mobile dance program for a group of local preschools, which solidified the idea that teaching dance was what I was meant to do. As the children began to grow out of the preschools, I had to just let them go...like little butterflies out into the big wide world!  Sometimes this resulted in children joining a dance studio in their neighborhood, but often it just meant they were finished with their dancing hobby.  I wanted to give these little ballerinas a place to call home. Opening a dance studio is the best of both worlds.  I get to nurture and train children in a discipline that I feel so much passion towards!   I wanted to give adults a chance to dance as well, but so many ladies are intimidated by the typical ballet class. I decided to offer Zumba to expose adults to many styles of dance without having them attend the traditional dance class. 

What is your favorite style of dance?

I have two favorite styles of dance, one for the traditional dance studio and the other is my Zumba favorite!  Tap is hands-down my favorite style of dance.  I love the sounds, both simple and complex, and how taps can create their own music! You have the chance to be a little over-the-top when you tap!  Tap takes practice, it is not an easy style to pick up, but once you get it, I guarantee you will be hooked!  Salsa is my favorite interntational rythm.  I love the way the music gets you moving. You just can't stop dancing once you get that beat in your head!

What can someone expect when they come to your studio for the first time?

You will find both our dance classes and fitness classes are very welcoming to new students.  The students in both of those classes are never competitive and always embrace an additional dancer.  New ladies who attend Zumba classes always worries they won't know the routines, but that is the beauty of Zumba...you catch on to the choreography quickly becuase of the repetitive nature of the dances. Ladies always worry that they will look silly or that they don't know how to dance.  I always tell them "no one has time to look at you!"  Everyone is consumed with themselves and trying to follow along, that they just don't have time to notice that you might be on the wrong foot!  99% of the ladies who try the first class return for a second class! 

Typically, how many calories do you burn in a Zumba class?

 It all really depends on your body type and the amount of effort you put into each workout.  Typically, ladies can expect to burn at LEAST 500 calories.  A few of my regular Zumba girls wear monitors and have reported burning over 1,000 calories on multiple occasions!   

What makes Zumba so enjoyable for you?

I love that you don't feel like you are exercising when you Zumba!  It just feels like fun...a dance party!  It makes me so happy to see my friends and Zumba crew working hard on their fitness goals and to know that I am a part of their journey.  There are many reasons why ladies attend a Zumba class...some for help with their weight loss, others just to help them lead a heathier lifestyle.  I am so honored that we have formed a bond that goes far beyond the typical gym membership!

You can check out Zumba yourself 6 times a week at Center Stage Dance Company. 

($5.00 per class or a 10 class punch card for $40.00)

Mondays at 8:30

Tuesday-Thursday at 8:00pm

Saturdays at 8:00am 

Sundays at 4:00pm

Signature Drink Saturday: Cranberry Ginger Fizz Cocktail

How pretty is this drink? Fresh Cranberry, Lemon, Refreshing Yumminess...how could you go wrong? 

http://punchfork.com/styu9i

You'll need:

1 cup of fresh cranberries
1 wedge of Lemon
4 sprigs of mint 
1/2 an orange slice 
3/4 cup sugar 
1 cup ginger ale
3/4 cup water 
1.5 cups dry gin 


Here's what you'll do: (taken directly from Creative-Culinary)

1. Bring sugar and water to a boil in a medium saucepan, stir until sugar is dissolved. Remove from heat; pour off all but one cup of syrup, reserving any extra for another use.
2. Heat the syrup to a boil and then reduce heat to medium. Add the cranberries and simmer for 2-3 minutes until they just begin to burst. Remove from heat and let cool in syrup.
3. Place 2 Tablespoons drained cranberries and 6 Tablespoons cranberry syrup in a large pitcher; add the lemon wedges and orange slices.
4. Using a muddler or wooden spoon, vigorously mash the fruit.
5. Stir in gin and let steep for at least 5 minutes.
6. Strain into a medium pitcher.
7. Fill 4 glasses with crushed ice and 1/4 cup ginger ale.
8. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice and then pour half the cranberry mixture into the shaker and shake vigorously for 10 seconds, strain liquid into two glasses. Repeat.
9. Mound additional ice on top of each glass and garnish with 3 candied cranberries and a mint sprig.

An Engagement Story: Casie and Mark!

Meet Casie and Mark...a gorgeous couple (obviously, check out those pictures) with a gorgeous heart. We have been working with this happy couple for over a year now and love the amount of work that Casie has put into all of the "little details" for their big day. I don't want to share too much, because I know how many details will fill their after wedding post, but for now, a few of their engagement pictures from the always fabulous Bill Murray. We CANNOT wait for this June wedding at the Chrysler.

Monday Meeting: Lindsey Spears

Each week we introduce you to special event professionals across the Hampton Roads Region (and sometimes the nation) and today is no different. Today, we'd like to introduce you to an amazing event professional that got her start right here with Antonia Christianson Events. Our very own Lindsey Spears is quickly making a name for herself across the non-profit world and of course as our staff "Day Of" coordinator. We love her, and you will too! Meet Lindsey:

Image Courtesy of Trivium Studio

How did you get your start in events?  

 I started as an intern with Missy when I was a Junior at Virginia Wesleyan College. I am now the Special Event Coordinator at Susan G. Komen for the Cure Tidewater full-time, as well as the day-of coordinator and event assistant for Antonia Christianson Events.

What would you like your ACE clients to know about you? 

I am very dedicated to ensuring that their wedding is just that, their wedding. Even though ACE has many other clients, come their wedding day, the day is all about them. Every client has their own vision for the day, and it is my job to make sure that that vision is carried out to the completely and also to make them feel like this is the only wedding we have all year. They deserve that attention and dedication on the most important day of their lives.  

What is your favorite moment at a wedding? 

I love when the bride and groom have a first look, or share their first dance in the reception room with just the photographer. It is easy to get wrapped up in all of the other events and people throughout the day, but taking that alone time to reflect on the real reason they got to this day, the love for one another, is always special to witness. 

What is your favorite event you have ever been apart of planning?

I loved the Rowland/Sisson wedding. Every detail was thought through, from the logo for the day, to the theme, and the colors, and was executed so beautifully. I loved that the whole event was spectacular. Mixed with the abundance of love between the bride and groom, and the joy that all of their guests expressed, it was truly an incredible event. 

 

Above Image from Womble Photography 

Above Image from Womble Photography 

Above Image from Womble Photography 

Above Image from Womble Photography 

Above Image from Trivium Studio

Above Image from Trivium Studio

Megan and Phil: An Engagement Story

As you know, Antonia Christianson Events loves to help couples plan their big day! Meet Megan and Phil, who will tie the knot on September 29, 2012.  Their gorgeous engagement pictures were taken by Sam Hughes Photography.  Check out these fun and trendy pictures below! Who wouldn't want the Washington Monument in their engagement pictures? So cool!  Congratulations Megan and Phil!! Team ACE can't wait for your fabulous outdoor garden wedding at Founders Inn!

Monday Meeting: Jeremy Mitchell Cinema

Ahhh...Cinema! Here's the funny thing about wedding videography or cinematography...It's kind of a big deal! Throughout our years of business we have seem many peaks and valley's in terms of wedding videos. The video trend used to be really big and then it kind of went into extinction (probably because the amount of "stereotypes around cheesy wedding videographers and their more cheesy product")...but now thanks to companies like Jeremy Mitchell Cinema who take a backseat approach to creating a truly gorgeous product we are glad to say the trend is back and in full swing (hopefully...it is going no where soon!) 

Ladies of Gentlemen: Meet Jeremy Mitchell! 

Image Copyright: Justin and Mary (who the way i can't wait to work with at special wedding celebration October 2013!) 

How did Jeremy Mitchell Cinema get started?

Jeremy Mitchell Cinema got started in an odd series of coincidental events that just happened to work out. I used to film and edit skateboarding videos back in high school and my first few years in college. Nothing I ever really took seriously. As I slowly got out of it and focused on my career and in that timeframe I made friends with my partner Nick Godsell. He was working at the mall with a friend of mine and we had in common a huge love for music. Fast forward a decade later and my girlfriend (now wife) Ashley is having me tag along with her to help photograph weddings. At the same time Nick had been videoing his world travels for fun. I somehow got the notion to shoot weddings but with utilizing my film background and called upon Nick and the dynamic just worked!

How do you describe your style?

As far as style would go I would best describe it as honest. We shoot the day as it happens, with as little directing as possible. As lame as it sounds we capture the moments as they happen and won't interfere unless absolutely necessary. We also try to capture all the details and style of the day, almost from a photographer viewpoint. 

What is your favorite thing about videoing a wedding? 

If I had to pinpoint my favorite thing about shooting a wedding it would just be being involved in the insane amount of fun that is happening that day. A wedding is the best day of two peoples lives and I love that we get to share that and call it a "job." I mean seriously, have you ever met anyone that does't think weddings are an awesome time?

What is your biggest advice of couples looking for a wedding videographer?

The best advice I can give to a couple looking for a videographer is to make sure that they like the videographer(s) as people as well as the product they produce. A wedding is an intimate affair and you're really allowing the videographer into your lives so you should be able to trust them and enjoy the experience. There's so many people and studios out there that can make a great product but you should be able to enjoy yourself and your time with them throughout the whole process.

Here's a link to film I rather love. Also, I heard the planner of this one was pretty alright!

Jesse and Brandon from jeremy mitchell on Vimeo.

Monday Meeting: Dustin Lewis Images

I am a believer! (well sometimes!). I am the first to tell you that I do not recommend friends or loved ones working on your wedding day...Unless of course, they do the task at hand in their "professional life!". I have a million and one horror stories I can tell you...but thankfully, this story is not one of them. Last year, I had the blessing of planning the wedding celebrations for the Doucette Sisters. Both girls I have come to know and love, but both also brought new photographers into the forefront of my mind. The photographer I am going to share with you today is Dustin Lewis. He is an acquaintance of Jesse (the second sister to get married) and a fabulous photographer. I knew of his work before the wedding but wasn't sold when Jesse and Brandon told me that their friend was shooting the wedding. Thank goodness I bit my tongue because I absolutely ADORED their wedding images. Dustin is definitely making a name for himself in the wedding world. Here is a little Q&A Dustin answered for us:

How did you get started?

As a visually motivated person photography has always allowed me to express my artistic vision by providing lasting images for clients. In 2004 I received formal training and earned a commercial photography degree from the Visual Arts Center in Portsmouth, Virginia. The knowledge I gained through my college courses helped me refine my photography skills as well as prepare myself for entering the small business world. I have had my business license in the City of Virginia Beach since 2005. Currently I shoot 25-30 weddings a year regionally and I also maintain several commercial client accounts. 

What is your favorite moment to capture at a wedding?

I love using my images to document the entire flow of the day, from the nervous anticipation, through the ceremony and reception, finishing with the send off. If I had to pick one moment, it would have to be the short period of time following the ceremony that I usually get to spend alone with the newlyweds. I feel truly honored to be part of such a special moment where the couple has their first chance to share some private time as a married couple. The raw emotions they display create compelling and emotional images.

What is your style of photography?

My style is best described as a mix of classic portraiture and candid moments that capture the unique spirit of weddings. I use my photojournalistic background to tell stories and create timeless memories. My commercial photography experience allows me to provide extreme attention to all details.

What are some words of advice for couples seeking a photographer?

www.DustinLewisImages.com !!!! (Kidding!)

I recommend that couples take time to do the research when hiring a photographer and make sure that they are comfortable and mesh with the photographer's style and personality. I always prefer to meet each couple in person prior to booking in order to discuss the details of their wedding day and more importantly hear the story of how they met as well as the proposal.  I then use my creativity to showcase each couples personality in their engagement sessions. Oh and lastly, please make sure the photographer is passionate about their work and takes pride in what they do. Trust me, you will thank yourself when you have beautiful images to cherish for years to come.

Signature Drink Saturday:The Sarasota

In honor of the Oscar's this upcoming Sunday, we decided that no award show was complete without the bubbly!  Here is our version of the champagne fun from my favorite website, PINTEREST! of course!  Enjoy!

The Sarasota

Ingredients:

1 large bottle of Moscato or Riesling Wine

1 can of raspberry lemonade concentrate

A splash of sprite 

Crushed raspberries 

Directions:

Mix all ingredients together and enjoy! 

Monday Meeting: RSVP Stationery

Happy Monday Meeting! Anyone that knows me or has been to my studio knows i'm a bit obsessed with Stationery! Not just any stationery, gorgeous, lush, event driven stationery!  So it only makes sense that today on our blog we introduce you to one of our favorite stationers, RSVP Stationery! 


RSVP is owned by Kim and Kristen a sister team that pretty much rocks. Or as their website says "Kim, Kristen and sometimes Mom!" We also love how this duo inspires our clients, "gets it" each and every time and only gets better with the ever changing world of stationery design. 

Image by David Schwartz Photography

How did RSVP Stationery get its start?

Stationery has truly been in our blood for years.  We come from a long line of stationers and printers in our family.  Family is very important to us, so when our mom decided to retire from teaching, we decided we should do something together.  She had the planning and coordinating background, and Kim and I had the stationery and printing background, thus starting RSVP Stationery in 2003.

What makes your stationery “one of a kind”?

I think what makes us and our stationery unique is that we always think outside of the box!  The word “no” is not in our vocabulary when it comes to stationery and paper design.  Our area is so saturated with the same invitation lines.  Who really wants to send out the same invitation their cousin sent the year before.  We hope that we can create or find an invitation for our clients in any budget that excite and wow their guests!  

How did you make the transition from printing and wedding coordinating to developing RSVP Stationery?

Wedding planning and coordinating was not our focus in the beginning; however, it was something we loved to do along with running our retail storefront.  When we finally let our mom retire for a second time, we decided to stop the planning portion as well, just taking on wedding coordination and continuing to run the stationery store.  However, when Kim and I started designing our own invitations in house, everything changed.  Due to the amazing response, our time has been consumed with designing and producing custom invitation orders.  Since Kim and I have a genuine passion for paper and design, we decided to end wedding coordination completely.  Now we are able use our time to focus more on our love for stationery, paper and design.

When we started our business:

We really felt our clients needed an alternative to the “cookie cutter” invitation.  We strive to stay abreast with the latest trends, styles and ever-changing etiquette.  Our hope is that every event that we order or design an invitation for is unique to that client. Even if it is as simple as suggesting a new font, ink color or modern wording layout; any change can make the unique difference!

RSVP Stationery offers many different kinds of stationery, what type of events do your clients seek stationery for the most?

Weddings and Mitzvahs are definitely the majority of our “paper fun”; however, we have a strong client following for our imprintable invitations and personal stationery.  Whether it is a fun birthday invitation, a wedding program, or custom cups and napkins, our clients always find something perfect for their event. 

What is your favorite Stationery trend that you have seen for 2012?

Custom design is a huge trend this year and we feel it is here to stay.  We really love to get to know our clients, and in doing so it makes giving them their custom look so much more successful.  Meeting their planners, sisters, moms or fiancées always helps to give insight into the kind of “look” our clients may want. 

Image by Digital Dreammakers

Image by Echard Wheeler Photography

Image by Veronica Dana Photography