2 Weddings One Weekend!

Well,
You live and you learn two weddings one weekend, NEVER AGAIN!
Needless to say I've been a little preoccupied and unfortunately didn't make the time to fill you in on all the happenings.
Well this past weekend a client I had been working with all year got Hitched, and everything went according to the plan, what more can you ask for?
This past Sunday a really close friend took on the responsibility to plan a last minute wedding for her brother and I was the first person she called, excited because she's a close friend and to share such an amazing experience is priceless but so is all the work that goes into putting it all together. She opted to plan a very intimate home ceremony which was full of rituals and lots of new things for me being that it was a Hindu ceremony, but boy was it beautiful. Being that Friday and Saturday I was working with my other wedding I missed a lot of the physical setting up but boy was it worth it to set up on that that patio and become breathless. I already envisioned everything to look eye popping with the rich assortment of colors and patterns associated with Indian culture but the deep reds and bursts of yellow and gold seemed to jump right at you and wash you with this feeling, that's hard for me to describe in words but once I have the images I'm sure you will get the picture.
I was blessed to have worked with the photographer who photographed my own wedding Austin Green who captured the beauty of my good friends brothers ceremony and reception, and for Saturdays wedding that took place at the Millennium I worked with amazing vendors as well. Stephanie from "Stephanie's Creative photography" was the photographer was a complete joy to work with, and I was in awe that the DJ kept the entire party dancing from the beginning to the end, and they still wanted more "DJ Heavy" did his "thang". "The Flower Patch" did a wonderful job with all the flowers, and were pleasant to work with as well.
I will blog about the details of each event as soon as I get the pictures.
For now that's all folks!

Designing a Candy Buffet

Candy Buffets are my favorite wedding accessory, there is just so much you can do with one. Looking for a way to opt out of serving alcohol but don't want your guests to get bored during "cocktail hour" while you are posing for pictures and switching over settings from the ceremony to the reception? Are you seeking a keepsake that's fun and affordable? Trying to find another way to tie in your theme? Try a Candy Buffet.
I am working on putting together some ideas for a candy buffet so I thought I would take you along with me on my thought process for the ride. Scary, I know!
First, I scoured the web for images that had captured certain aspects of the buffet that I envision. I came across the following and I will highlight what I would like to take from each image and incorporate in the buffet that I am planning.



I envision the buffet being awe inspiring, theatrical so there will need to be elements that create drama other than the typical candy filled jars. I like the fact that this candy buffet added dimension by adding layers of height by way of displaying candy on different levels and using the flowers at the top to add height and color. The picture of the couple is a nice center piece for the display table. I would want to bring those aspects to the buffet.



The key to the buffet that I am planning is to be able to entertain guests during cocktail hour, so a nice variety of candy, rather than all pink M&M's in a jar or silver kisses would be ideal. I also think it would be a good idea for the candy to enlist memories from times past and that's why I think the look of an old school candy store would be nice to incorporate in the fashion below to a degree. I would definitely upgrade the jars to have the nice silver knobbed lids opposed to the plastic ones below (Tip: They sell them at Target and Wal-mart for a great price).



I love the apothecary style jars and would definitely consider using this style. It's classy and elegant and they come is variety of sizes. I also like the fact that I could use ribbon to tie in the colors/theme.


The idea is for the buffet to be elegant yet fun and memorable but not break the bank, one way to keep the budget intact would be to opt for cellophane or paper candy bags and stick a monogram sticker on the bag. I can find these kinds of bags 50-100 in a package at any dollar store and with a nicely designed sticker attached no one would know the difference, and since its candy they are likely to eat during cocktail hour or shortly thereafter not really reasonable to put to much money into cute boxes to get trashed. Although I could go with a mini glass candy jar if I want them to have a permanent piece of memorabilia.

A banner or sign behind the buffet is a must have. The one displayed here is super cute and simple. I love the saying "Because love is sweet" so I would opt for that or the one below "Love, Sweet Love"

I also think the linen can make or break a candy buffet, if you are going with a few colors of candy tone the linen down, but if you are finding that your candy choices are more monochromatic then go with a more colorful linen perhaps a pattern or something whimsical like polka dots or the old fashioned red and white stripes for that authentic old school feel.

Once I am able to tie all the elements of above together and design a layout I am going to move on to pricing out the buffet. Candy is expensive so the sooner you start looking the more opportunities you have to catch sales, especially candy left over after Valentines Day because they will fit more into the "Wedding" theme.

From those pictures alone I have pretty much developed what I want my buffet to look like

Happy New Year!!!

Wow, I can hardly believe it's 2010 already. I am so excited to start the New Year off right. I'm going to try and connect on a more personal level on my blog and really "talk" to you guys, thats what this is all about in the first place.
The end of 2009 had me so busy trying to get things set up for what looks like a busy year, I didn't take the time to blog. Sorry.
So, what have I been up to??
I had a fab little business party at my place. My place is small, well quaint but I was able to transition the place into a lively little environment with a few flowers and my favorite part about the party was the "Mashed Potatoes Bar". I really played on the Bar part and centered the theme around it. I served a scoop of Mashed Potatoes in Martini glasses (Potini's as I called them throughout the evening)that guests could prepare anyway they wished with the fixin's that were displayed in glass goblets. Forgive me but I was so busy playing hostess that I didn't even think to snap a pic until it was pretty much over and at that point so was my beautiful display. No worries because I can't wait to redo this theme.
You could do so much with this idea Potini's, tacotini's and create all kinds of signature Potini's and make menu cards for them so that guests can use the fixin's to create their own signature drink of choice.
I also added a Travel & Shop link to my website that has me extremely excited. I expanded Kaden Maddox Events to include KME WorldWide a side business that will allow me to offer more services to my clients, like amazing HoneyMoon Bridal Registries, and HoneyMoon packages. Great prices on their travel accomodations. Also, the site will allow them to get cash back virtually off anything they purchase online whether it be invitions or party supplies or the perfect outfit to attend the event. It's just amazing, check it out by visiting Kaden Maddox Events.com and follow the Travel and Shop link.
I have also partnered with some other planners and industry professionals and launched "Your Free Wedding Coach" a business that caters to engaged couples that will allow them to be in control of planning their own wedding as we coach them through the entire process for free.
I am going to blog about this but you can check out the site in the meantime at www.YourFreeWeddingCoach.com
Oh, and I'll be at RadioOne's Simply Elegant Bridal Expo January 31st. I will give you more information about the show as I get it, hope to see you there.

Best Family Reunion deal around

Recently, I decided to take on the role of putting together my Family Reunion, naturally I thought it would be the perfect fit since I plan events for a living. Well as anyone who has ever planned a reunion or even helped plan one knows that this can be a very daunting task. Not only coordinating the event but dealing with the many colorful personalities your family may have, everyone will have an opinion and want this and that but at the end of the day you still have to put something together that your family will enjoy and deem worth attending. Not to mention the Reunion has to be affordable, especially with the condition of this economy.

I was faced with the same pressure and put even more on myself since it's my family. Determined to ensure this event is the best my family has seen thus far, I immediately went work putting together the ultimate reunion only to find the cost was going to be more than most people in my family would want to pay or could afford especially since over half would be traveling pretty far to attend. My luck changed when I came across another planner Bruce Davis that put me on to a Family Reunion Package. I couldn't refuse the rates and decided to look into it and now it seems my family will have a Reunion to be remembered.

Here's a preview of the package options:



BBQ in the Park $49.99
Children under 5 FREE / 6-12 $9.99
Plus these amenities:
Family Web page & T-Shirts
Printed Announcements/Hospitality Room
Catered BBQ/ Fish Fry in the Park
Kids Movie Night/Teenage "Luau" Pool Party
Welcome Reception w/Light Hors d' oeuvres

*
Banquet Dinner $69.99 per person
Children under 5 FREE / 6-12 $19.99
Banquet Dinner at the Historic Crenshaw Hall
Red Carpet Limousine Service for Family Elders*
Plus the above amenities excluding BBQ in the park

*
BBQ & Banquet Dinner $99.99 per person
Children under 5 FREE / 6-12 $29.99
Includes all the above

*
Family Out on the Town
Transportation provided for $7 per person to & from:
Skating Rink, Mall, Down Town Raleigh Museums or Frankie's Adventure Park
(Transportation only, admission fees may apply)

*
Payments
*No need to collect funds from friends and family.
*Secure On-line payments for each attendee
*Payment Installments Available
*Catering to YOUR family's budget

Discounted room rates also available at Hampton Inn-Raleigh Midtown
1001 Wake Towne Drive, Raleigh, NC 27609
$69-$89 + tax per night
rooms sold separately from event packages


Contact me for more details if interested at KadenMaddoxEvents@yahoo.com you can also fan Kaden Maddox Events on FB and ask questions, and feel free to visit our Home Website at http://www.kadenmaddoxevents.com/

Sucker for city Skylines

I absolutely love amazing backdrops and it gets no better for me than the beautifully lit night sky of New York City. Just thought I would share this beautiful wedding image. FETE did an amazing job with this wedding, see all the pics in the link in the posting below.

The Finest Event View in New York | Fête – NYC Event Planning, Event Design and Paper

The Finest Event View in New York | Fête – NYC Event Planning, Event Design and Paper

Posted using ShareThis

Who says your flowers have to cost a fortune??

A highlight of any event is the florals, especially the case with weddings and yes something so small can carry a BIG price tag. How to avoid the pitfall of spending way too much on flowers.

1. Get to know your flowers.

Whats in season and what's not? Whats going to carry a huge price tag no matter what month we're in? What comes 2-3 to a stem?

Knowing just a few things about flowers will help you make decisions that could save you lots of $$$.

2. Don't listen to people who tell you, especially florists that they hate working with certain flowers (Carnations, Gerbera daisies, Baby's Breath, etc). They can look amazing in bunches and carried as a single bloom as guess what? They are extremely reasonable!

There are some flowers be it inexpensive or pricey that can just be difficult to work with because of their fragile nature so in some cases florist avoid some flowers because of the potential headache but once again doing a little home work will help you decipher, after all its your money.

photo sources: http://belladesignstudio.blogspot.com, www.purejoyflowers.com, www.projectwedding.com all together at http://cornerstoneevents.ca/blog

Slightly Oldie but Goodie!

If you want a behind the scenes look at just how fabulous affairs come to be, then you are going to love following the South's Premier event designer. I've fallen in love with countless ideas and can't wait to be a copy cat! My favorite would have to be Tara Guerards creative exits for couples leaving the reception.

Perfect Ceremonies

Perfect Ceremonies ordained minister Phran Gacher helps couples create a ceremony that is unique as they are. If you are looking to have a memorable ceremony that is a true reflection of your love then check her out at http://PerfectCeremonies.com You'll get a chance to see testimonies from lots of happy couples.

Not only is Reverend Phran able to perform ceremonies at your location of choice but she has a charming intimate chapel at her Garner home that she extends to her clients, her packages including her home chapel start at the amazing rate of $150.00

Great service

Outstanding rates

and the Perfect Ceremony

What more can you ask for!

Yacht on the Hudson

Congratulations Rachel and Jamie! Hello Friends! I am still recouperating from my fabulous weekend in NYC. I attended an Engagement/Birthday party on the Hudson River. First of all I must say that this was the BEST party I have ever attended on many different levels, but it doesn't get much better than a Yacht with a view. I am less than satified with the pics I was able to take, but even a picture couldn't capture the magic of this well planned evening. If you ever want to floor your guests try a yatch on the Hudson the view at night alone will take your breath away. The beautiful floral arrangements had an image of the couple lasered on the vase
The "Tiffany Cake" was to celebrate the Groom to be's Birthday. There was hardly any room for this cake after everyone had tray passed desserts.
The Dj made all the difference in the world! He was able to keep everything on schedule and running smoothly. The dance floor was packed until the last second! Your Dj can make or break your party spend a little time searching for the perfect fit to ensure your party is a success.The tables were nicely decorated with accents of purple . Everything was nicely put together, a big hand of applause to the Mother of the soon to be Bride, Donna Tracey!

How to keep your event HOT when it's Cold!

Winter is right around the corner and with all the cold comes skepticism. Can I really throw a "HOT" event in the winter? Yes, both figuratively and literally! You can plan the event of events and leave all of your guests wowed at the pure realism that "yes, it's really Winter".

There is no limit to the possibilities if only you open your mind. Imagine the rooftop pictured below with a clear enclosed tent and that amazing view!

You will be able to find great deals left and right since it's "off season". You'll be able to bargain to save a dollar where you can and splurge on all those unnecessary but exorbitant desires.

Here's a HOT idea that is sure to captivate you guests. Have an outdoors event. Nothing like the look and feel of being among nature, the openness, the vibrance of the clear blue sky or divinity of the stars at night. I am a HUGE fan of Terraces, Rooftops and Balconies, why not use a clear tent to enclose your space and just go wild with the clean slate of a palette. No need to worry about keeping your guests comfortable with all of the modern options for heating that your tent provider will be able to offer you. Throw in some lighting, maybe wash the space with a subtle glimmer of color or strings of twinkle lights to set the night sky aglow with class and sophistication.

A clear tent can be just what it takes to make your winter event HOT!

1st image courtesy of www.sugarplumtents.com

2nd image courtesy of www.bizbash.com

3rd image courtesy of www.sugarplumtents.com

They Cater! Cool Runnings Jaimaican Cuisine

This ambrosial islandy restaurant is my favorite spot and they cater!

This is nothing new, but my first time blogging about it and I can't believe it took me this long. They catered my own wedding for goodness sakes!

The food is unbelievable and always chef prepared to order. With your catered event you can expect great service, well organized staff and exquisite food. My guests are still raving about the "cocktail patties" we served during cocktail hour along with a few other hors d' oeuvres.

The owners are delightful, genuine people that ensure your every desire is catered to.

AND you can expect to get the same reasonable rate regardless of your event type.

BUDGET BRIDE TIP:

With the word "Wedding" comes $$$ dollar signs to events industry professionals. For instance you can call a place and ask for a quote for plated dinner for your Family Reunion and get one rate, and call the same place and ask for the same plated dinner and get a significantly higher rate. This applies true to most of your other wedding services also. Hence, a lot of professionals who cater specifically to the wedding market tend to be a bit more expensive than those who do not. If you are on a budget check your favorite restaurant and see if they cater, or just call mine. (I intended that last part to humor you but you really could call my favorite place and they will give you the royal treatment and don't forget to tell them who sent you. I don't get any kick backs from them, I just seriously love the place.) Either, way you have better odds at getting a caterer you can afford.

How to Budget for a Family Reunion

It's that time again to begin planning Family Reunion's for the summer months. We at KME plan Family Reunions and know that it can be an overwhelming task. We are here to help! First develop a realistic budget.

You need to decide what things you want to be included in your Reunion. Are you planning tours? Visits to places of interest? How about Souvenirs, T-shirts, name tags? The list can go on, but you should try and get a clear idea of the type event you want to have and think about all that will be included with that.

Heres a checklist of billed items that you will want to start with:

Bank Account

Phone calls

Printing and mailing

Deposits

Registration supplies

Prizes

Entertainment

Picnic or meal expenses

Rentals of tables, chairs and linens

Photography

Post Reunion Communication

Now that you have clearly identified expenses you will want to look for ways to share them. You can assess each attendee or divide costs among families, you can even take financial ability into account and charge accordingly. Establish a criteria for the expenses to be taken care of and stick to it.

"Damar" Photo Shoot

As I have mentioned in my earlier posts being an Event Planner has heightened my appreciation for photography and I often seek the opportunity to pull out my trusty camera whenever I can. I had the opportunity to do photoshoot with the artist "Damar" this weekend and I was able to get some really good shots. Just a little something extra I can add to my portfolio and can't hurt for clients to get a look at some of the potential musicians for their events.

The Other Side of Event Planning: "Networking"

An essential part to being successful in event planning is networking and lucky for me I love to meet new people. In the events industry to get to meet and work with people from many different sectors of the events world and every now and again you meet people that truly "touch" you. I'd like to take a minute to share info on my two latest inspirations.
Simplee Complex
I came across a group earlier this year while scouting for new entertainment contacts and I must say that I was blown away by their talent.
"Simplee Complex" is an amazing group of 3 vocally blessed young women and if you are ever in need of an awesome group with and even more amazing band you are in luck, because you have to look no further. They will be performing locally at the Pour House on Blount Street in Raleigh, NC on October 25, 2009. Check them out it will be worth it.
Pop Damar
I've also had the pleasure of working with an amazing artist "Damar" or as some may call him "Pop". He's not only an ingenius producer but a gifted singer that is sure to wow you with his original sound and warm personality. Once again if you are in need of a professional soloist, look no further.

What I've Been Up To!

Well, this past weekend I took a trip to Greensboro with a client to a tasting at "Maria's Gourmet Catering". Maria was quite impressive, as I had no doubt she wouldn't be after reading her impressive bio at http://www.marias-to-go.com/575265.html on her website. She is one the most talented Chefs I've met and you can instantly sense her passion for what she does. Once we arrived we had to inform Maria that we were doing a 360 from the original menu idea and she was able to walk us through a brand new tapas menu in minutes, walk back to the kitchen to ensure we would be able to taste our new menu items. Needless to say the Mini Crab Cakes, London Broil and Artichoke Dip was delectable!

I have also been working on putting together plans to pull off these to looks for a 2010 Wedding/Ceremony.



Awesome, I know! This super chic warm lounge is sure to wow guests as well as the Icy White Urban design for the ceremony. So far its coming together nicely, but this will be no easy task and I am looking forward to the challenge.

Swank Photo Studio-Smithfield

WOW! Is all I can say about Swank Photography Studio in Smithfield, NC. I visited the studio yesterday along with a client that was having a Boudouir Photo Session. I had an amazing time and met two wonderful industry professionals. I worked with a wonderful skilled makeup artist yesterday from KTouch Artistry, Lekisha was simply amazing, she was fun to work with and fast.
The studio was rented out by Miranda of In The Grain Photography and althought I haven't seen the pictures yet I KNOW they are incredible! The looks, the poses were to die for. Miranda didn't waste any time directing the session, she was so organized and orderly and had an amazing eye for fashion.
I don't even know where to start on the studio. If you are looking for somewhere to take some real Couture pictures then this studio is the place. Each setting was Artfully Designed. The use of color was amazing, the fabrics, the paints and flooring with different textures (furs, knits and a host of others) gave you so much to work with, not to even mention the studios inventory of props and accessories. There were feather pins, super cute jewelery, and heels that you couldn't even imagine. No corner was left untouched, the bathroom had a Chandelier, not just any Chandelier but a awesome crystal chic breathtaking Chandelier.
I can't wait to work in this studio again and was grateful for the opportunity.
I deemed that this studio would also make a wonderful setting for a Bridal Shower, Bachelorette Party. I have some wonderful ideas for those parties, so if you are interested let's get to planning!
Can't wait to post a picture from the session!

T&J May 2010 Wedding Planning Update I

Well, I have been looking high and low for a nice paisley's pattern to go along with this couples wedding colors and theme. I would have preferred to find a roll of fabric to use but, instead I found a nice spool of ribbon and some very nice cardstock. Check it out:

If they are feeling this look and color scheme we may design the stationary based on this ribbon pattern and incorporate the ribbon through out the decor. What do you think?

Unbelieveable End of Season Specials

We have 2 great specials going on now!

Baby's 1st Birthday: For only $250.00 (special will also include birthday's 2-5)

You will recieved:

Personalized event design

Coordination

Catering for 20 guests including children and adults

Decor

Invitations
Cake or Cupcakes

We specialize in Elmo parties, but can design any themed party.

Bridal Shower/Baby Shower: For only $300.00

You will receive:

Customized Event Design

Custom invitations to coordinate with the theme

Catering for upto 30 guests

Decor to include Fresh Florals

Shower Coordinator to assist with games or activities if desired

You couldn't these 2 events for less yourself! We know exactly what vendors to use to be able to offer such low prices. You can expect a professionally designed and coordinated event that your guests are sure to LOVE!

Venue space not included in rate special rate, however we will help you locate a venue to host your event that fits your budget free of charge if neccessary.

Check out some pics of some of our favorite party inspirations!

Just For You- T&J May 2010

Well, I was inspired by my latest clients colors and thought I would put a little something together that would highlight what I was thinking. An inspiration board of sorts, just with captions. The colors: Purple, Pink, and Green. Ok, so 3 colors I know, but this is so doable, with one main color and 2 accent colors. I planned an amazing reception featuring 3 colors. I went with Turquoise, Hot Pink and Lime Green to create a Caribbean theme. Here is a few pics from the wedding.
Anyhow, back to the subject at hand. So for this upcoming wedding my client is so laid back and fun to work with, the couples main concern is just having a nice affair that the guests will enjoy. Simple, Elegant yet fun. So were are working on finding some inspiration to bring everything together. When I first heard of the color scheme I thought "paisley's, that's it paisley's" I searched high and low for a pattern that would feature paiselys in the colors and I found this:
Just for inspiration, I copied a pattern that mac is using for its new laptop design.

Next I searched for ways to incorporate the paisleys theme and found this wonderful table setting:

I love the way they made the chairbacks out of the cloth, and the color usage here is lovely. An elegant way to work with bright colors. The centerpiece is right along the lines of what the couple is seeking, a simple cylinder with a single stem or something along those lines.
I also found this really cool cylinder centerpiece, a nice touch to bring an element of green is to add apples. The flowers on top are a bit more than this couples liking but yet still really pretty

I will add more of my ideas, inspiration and notes on this wedding as it progresses.