Holiday Parties at Home: Simple steps to Success!

Hello all! I'm sorry it took me a bit longer than I anticipated to get this next post out but last week was crazy for me. I had a huge holiday party for 1000 people, I will be posting photos soon and then the very next day we had our own holiday housewarming for over 100 people. Things were crazy and chaotic and somewhere in the midst of things I learned that my Godfather, Uncle Irving, had passed away. Anyway, both events were extremely successful and went very smooth.

In this post, I'd like to share with you my simple steps to having a successful holiday party in your home. This is my absolute favorite season and there's no better way to celebrate it then to be in good company with great food and decor!

1) Plan ahead! Even if your a last minute Charlie which I myself, even sometimes tend to be, always try and at least map out the direction your going in advance. For my holiday party, I made my menu the same night I made the guest list. This points you in the right direction and prepares you for what to respond with when helpful guests offer to bring someting. Plan your menu, your beverages, your decor and your entertainment as far in advance as you can and this will enable you to have more time for prep as the week of approaches.

2) Accept help! While many do like to do everything they can on their own, help is great too! This year I knew as much as I'd love to do everything on my own it just wasn't feasible with such a large event the day before. Instead, I planned to cook all my crowd pleasing appetizers and platters that I could myself, and get help with mini gourmet sandwiches and salads. I called upon a favorite vendor and immediately felt the relief. I then ordered potato latkes as well from a couple local chefs I know and they aided in taking off some of the pressure. In addition, anyone that offered to bring something I accepted. I asked all my generous guests who offered to please bring a dessert. I also ordered mini cupcakes from Yummy Cupcakes in Burbank and dessert was a huge hit.

3) Appreciate all the details... This year I was full of details! Little things that don't seem that relevant are often times the things your guests will notice most.

I hung ornaments from my chandelier using ribbon, added fabric to my mantles and placed holly around the house for a festive smell. I also made sure to place little snacks such as candy bowls, chocolate covered nuts and raisins in every room for guests to much on. I made sure that the food I was serving had little placecards in front of them to identify what each item was and made sure to have a large variety for my veggie, meat and seafood eaters. I also altered our lighting using twinkle lights, candles and dimmers. This added a real ambiance to the evening.

4) Clean up as you go! Throughout the day while I was prepping and the night while I was entertaining I consistently attempted to put away and clean as much as possible. This prevents a large mess for the end of the night and is very easy. Try and remember the guideline full hands in - full hands out. Anytime your walking in or out of the kitchen or dining area always try and multi-task as you go. The more you can do while completing other tasks along the way, the less you will have to do at the end of the night. It's a great trick to follow and is rather simple too.

5) Have fun! Don't forget to enjoy yourself with your guests. This is always one thing I tend to forget myself, I get so wrapped up in cooking and perfecting everything I tend to place enjoying myself lower on the list. But ultimately, your guests are here for you, it's important to share the night with them. Make sure you allow ample time to complete your entertaining duties and still play a part in the night as well.

So those are my top tips for a successful evening amongst your closest family and friends. I wish you all a happy healthy holiday from my home and into your own. I will try to post a few more times prior to the end of the year

Words of Wisdom Wednesday: The Importance of Videography

Cinematography happens to be one of our favorite elements from a wedding. While a picture is worth a thousand words, there is nothing more powerful or emotionally riveting than the story a wedding day video tells. There is something truly magical about reliving the most special of moments, being able to hear vows and speeches all over again and simply just viewing the day, after it happens. Your wedding day goes by so quickly and so much is happening at once that many often overlook things large or small. Having the peace of mind in knowing you will have a keepsake to hold onto and experience everything all over again is priceless.



Unfortunately, video tends to be one of the first vendors our clients seem to want to omit, for budget purposes or they just don't think they need it. We always encourage them to reevaluate this decision based on prior experiences with past clients. For quite some time clients have chosen to go without a video and to this day it tends to be one of their number one regrets. We now suggest at the very minimum having someone document the raw footage from the day. In the past several years, clients have taken our advice, hired a videographer for the day and have been beyond pleased in their decision.



One thing to note, their is a substantial difference between a wedding video and a cinematography styled wedding film. One of our favorite companies, Charles Lauren Films, recently spoke on some of the major differences between the two styles and why your video really is an investment for your future. In the video below, Kelsey Pluskat explains how the post-production process is truly what separates a cinema film from what she calls "your mother's wedding video".

Another incredible element to add to your wedding video is a highlight reel or even better yet the signature "same-day" edit created especially by Mr. Daniel Boswell of Imagique Cinema. Both the highlight reel and the "same-day" edit capture the most memorable moments of your day and feature them in an edited version synced to music. Sometimes they can also take words from speeches or vows or just special things said and edit those in as well.



The primary difference between the highlight reel and the "same-day" edit is the date it's shown. A "same-day" edit is created and shown live on-site at your wedding! Yes, this is actually possible and truly amazing. Guests are shocked and ecstatic to see all the details behind the scenes they didn't get to see during the day like getting ready moments or the minutes leading up to the ceremony. Typically we like to schedule the "same-day" edit for immediately following the cutting of the cake. This usually gives pros like Daniel ample time to setup an edit station in private and really go above and beyond with the cutting and mixing to your preselected song.



Here is an example of one of those magical "same-day" edits by Imagique Cinemafrom our Platinum Wedding. This happens to be one of our most favorite of all time! Not only do we love Alicia Keys but we also adore Kristel and Jason!







If you have additional questions in regards to Wedding Videography and the difference between Cinematography, please don't hesitate to ask.



If you are in search for a stellar videography team here are three of our personal favorites.



Daniel Boswell of Imagique Cinema



David and Kelsey Pluskat of Charles Lauren Films



Jason Garner Young of Garner Films



These companies are the best of the best and working with any of them will present you with an amazing video!



Happy Viewing!

Words of Wisdom Wednesdays: Breakfast is your most important meal!

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, yet so many of us seem to miss it. Whether it is because your super busy or you may just not be a "breakfast person", we urge you to eat your breakfast on your wedding or event day!

On your special day, there will be a lot of chaos and commotion and emotions will be flying high. Having something in your system for your body to burn makes all the difference and will keep you energized all day long. If your not someone who likes to eat in the morning, at least grab a nutrition bar of some kind or even a piece of fruit. Anything to get your body going will contribute to ensuring you are in tip top shape for your special occasion.


Here are our picks for the top breakfast items to maximize your energy for your day!

• Oatmeal with Fresh Fruit or Raisins
• Eggs with Toast
• Breakfast Sandwich
• Bagel with Cream Cheese and all your favorite fixings’ (We like sliced tomatoes )
• Pancakes, Waffles or French Toast
• Fresh Fruit with Cottage Cheese
• Granola with Yogurt and Berries




Happy Morning!

Festive Fridays: We heart happy flowers!

There is nothing more festive than a bright space overflowing with color and excitement. We absolutely love weddings that are vivacious and full of life. The colors for this particular event, designed by The Treasured Petal are extraordinary! So happy, the color combinations work so well together, especially for an event so close to the beach!







The amazing photographs are courtesy of Sae Lee Photography.

Happy Flowers!

New Registry with A Great Affair

So often do I have clients asking me how to register for items other than those at Macy's, Pottery Barn etc... There are so many options out there nowadays with Honeymoon Registries, Photography Registries and more... How do you choose?

While it is not in proper etiquette to ask for cash for your wedding. A registry like A Great Affair, gives you the option of asking for what you really want, while still not literally asking for cash.



So if you are one of those couples out there who has been nesting for long enough that your house is pleasantly full and you want another option... Here is a great way to kindly request what you truly would like for your wedding gifts!

Happy Registry!

Social Media and Your Wedding

Social Media is continuing to takeover the world wide web of a world we live in.  It's amazing to think where the social media world was even just a few years back and compare it to where it is today.  It often could take at least a weekend-- sometimes a few weeks or even longer, for word to travel of a couple's wedding and all of the details that went along with it.  Today, it's all accessible at your fingertips within moments and the best part is, you oftentimes get pictures too!!!    

According to Mashable, about one in ten brides update their Facebook relationship status within minutes of saying "Yes", and nearly one in three (31%) do so within hours of getting engaged.  It seems everyone is using social media to stay connected and share information about exciting life events with others.  Whether you love it or hate it, social media is here to stay and offers a unique way to connect with your guests.

Photo courtesy of Arkarthick

About 62% of brides like when their guests immediately post photos from their wedding onto various social media sites (according to Mashable).  If you do fall into this category, we suggest you create a hashtag to your event (e.g. #amenaandbrandonsayido #johnandcarrieswedding #bebowedding).  Share it with your guests and ask them to include it after any photos they post from your wedding.  This will provide you with the opportunity to view your wedding from various angles and see all of the unique and fun experiences your guests had while celebrating with you.  The best part about it is that it is free!  Check out these fun ways to share your hashtag with your guests:  

Photos courtesy of (1) CeeBeeandJ, (2) Pinterest, (3) In Bliss, (4) Style Me Pretty

If you like the idea of collecting photos from your guests but would prefer they not be shared via social media, consider using a company such as Wedding Snap or Photo Opp which provides a platform for couples to collect wedding photos and videos from their guests.  Guests can capture, store and instantly share their unique wedding photos in one central, password protected location.  This is a great option for guests that prefer not to use social media or don't understand the whole "hashtag" thing.  

Photos courtesy of Wedding Snap

Although some couples encourage their guests to immediately post photos from their wedding onto various social media sites, if you are unsure, we suggest that guests hold off until the newlyweds have had the opportunity to post their photos first.  If you are a more private couple that would prefer not to share photos from your wedding with the entire world, consider posting a simple sign like this at your wedding:

Photo courtesy of Etsy shop SerendipityDesigned

We just had to share this fun gift idea with you.  It is perfect for the social media/Facebook loving couple!

Photo courtesy of Etsy shop blushface

Oh and speaking of social media... are you following The Sterling Team?  Find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!   

What do you think about social media and your wedding?  Will you or have you developed your hashtag?  If so, what is or would it be?  We want to know, share with us, by commenting below!

xoxo,
The Sterling Team

My Fave Mondays: Robert Edward Woodworking

Robert Edward Woodworking, specializes in designing and building unique wedding cake and cupcake stands. Each of his stands are completely handmade and exquisitely detailed. From a custom vintage design to a retro inspired eye-catcher, REW definitely creates a custom look for each wedding or event their work is a part of. That's why they are our pick for today's spotlight.
Standard designs as well as custom stands are available. Custom designs can include a stand that focuses on the design of the cake. For instance, if the cake contains a floral pattern, the stand could subtly suggest a certain element of the design, such as a flower or vine. Another option would be to include an architectural element or logo of a particular venue you are working with. The design possibilities are virtually unlimited!
Whether one of their exquisite standard designs or a spectacular custom design is preferred, I can assure you this type of stand cannot be found anywhere else! Be sure to visit the Robert Edward Woodworking website or contact Robert directly at (201) 393-0507 for more information.

Happy Standing!

Sterling Engagements Wishes: Happy 4th of July!

What a beautiful day it is to celebrate such a festive holiday!  Hoping you are able to get out, take the day off and enjoy some sunshine!

 

Photo courtesy of Examiner

The 4th of July is one my own all time favorite holidays for the sole purpose that I LOVE fireworks.  This year is an extra special one for me as I'm actually able to take the bulk of the afternoon and evening off.  So I'm going to share with you some holiday rules and guidelines that I made for myself for this special day.  Hoping it will encourage, inspire and excite you as much as it has me!
   
ӿ  Embrace the day: Do something a little different than what I usually do... 

ӿ  Be Kind: To yourself and others today, push yourself to somehow go the extra mile for you and for someone else in some way.  Even if you don't want to, it will come back.

ӿ  Have Fun: Be a little extra silly, laugh a lot and create memories with those around you to make this THE BEST 4TH EVER!

ӿ  Make New Friends:  Wish anyone you get the opportunity to a Happy 4th!  Whether it's a stranger on the street, a waitress at lunch or even a person you haven't met yet at the same party you are at.  Change their day, it's powerful and amazing and oh so rewarding.

ӿ  Be safe:  That's self explanatory!

Have a safe and Happy Holiday!

My Fave Mondays: Raj Tents

If you want to take your wedding or event to the next level, Raj Tents is the company to help you accomplish that! We absolutely love adding these stylish tents to our designs and that is exactly why they are our favorite pick for this week!


Raj Tents has become the leading luxury tent rental company looking after discerning clients tenting and décor needs in California and nationwide from their offices in Los Angeles and San Francisco. With an exclusive and unique inventory, Raj Tents fills the gap in high-end, detail oriented and just simply beautiful tenting to make weddings and events stand out from the crowd.


Raj Tents can provide tenting for a variety of themes, including Moroccan, Indian, eclectic modern, beach chic through to French provincial and the understated elegance of ivory and gold. Raj’s inventory ranges from smaller, immaculate Pergolas and Pavilions for lounges, food or bar service and that work wonderfully as focal points for ballrooms, all the way to large frame tent linings to transform standard white vinyl tents into palatial settings for your nuptial celebrations.


Our favorites are the Maharaja range of traditional pole tents – just about as romantic as you can get. We also love the Chandeliers, it is such a beautiful accent!


Check out the Raj Tents web site to view more of their stunning sensations. They are consistently written up in the press for their Oh So Chic and Glamorous designs. Raj Tents are definitely the company to call when you don’t want to compromise on style or quality. If you have questions you can always contact them at their main office in Los Angeles at (310) 320-6600


Happy Tenting!

Inspired by Garden Roses!

I truly love Garden Roses. They're so textured and soft, super complicated yet still fragile and they're very versatile. Most importantly they are one of the best and most economical substitutions for Peonies. While they look beautiful and every color, I think my personal favorite is peach!

Here is some lovely inspiration showcasing these roses at their best!

Photo Courtesy of Ruffled Blog

Photo Courtesy of Francoise Weeks European Design

Photo Courtesy of Real Simple

Photo Courtesy of Every Last Detail Blog

Photo Courtesy of JL Designs

Hope you enjoyed viewing these textured beauties as much as I do! They're just a perfect touch to any summer wedding which I've clearly been seeing lots of lately during our summer season!

Countdown To The Royal Wedding

The countdown has officially begun and as I sit here watching the Royal Wedding coverage with so little time left to go, I felt the need to share a a piece of my excitement with you.

I started my day attending a very special Royal Tea Party hosted by the ever so wonderful Eddie Zaratsian of tic-tock Couture and The Langham Pasadena. The event was flawless, so much fun and truly the perfect beginning to a magical event in history. Here's a sneak peak of the tablescape from the Viennese ballroom where we had tea.


With all this Royal Wedding buzz the wedding industry is booming with Royal inspiration and I felt it was fitting to share a bit of it with you tonight.

Photo Courtesy of Hulu

A couple week's ago the incredibly talented Youngsong Martin of Wildflower Linens revealed an opulent "Royal" inspired napkin ring that is just epic. From the moment we received the details on this stunning show stopper we were sold!

Photo Courtesy of Tres Fabu

Today we received an email from Classic Party Rentals on yet another "Royal" inspired Chameleon Chair. How elegant is this?


As I watch the arrivals I love all the hats and headpieces I see! It's fascinating to watch all the different designs, colors and details of these fabulous hats!

Photo Courtesy of Rachel Trevor-Morgan

Photo Courtesy of All About Weddings

I'm also fascinated by the men's morning suits! How great are they? Just as versatile as some of the hats are the variety of colors and textures in the gentleman's suits. Here are a few favorites...

Photos Courtesy of Nicola Cornick

Last but not least is what I hope to see Kate in... a lace gown that's timeless, sophisticated and contemporary but still pays homage to Diana. A friend told me today to revisit Grace Kelly's gown, I did and now I must share it with you, it's just breathtaking!

Photo Courtesy of Covelli Boutique

Hope you enjoyed the countdown but now it's time for the moment I've been waiting for since November... The Royal Wedding!

Inspired by Dusty Miller!

One of my brides is currently in debate with whether or not to incorporate Dusty Miller foliage into her bouquets. So lately I've been inspired by this velvety goodness!

Photo Courtesy of Dave's Garden

I seriously love Dusty Miller, it's so delicately soft and a perfect neutral filler to add a little texture to whatever palette it graces! Here are some of my favorite ways to incorporate it into your design!

Balsa Wood Flowers are gorgeous and so texture rich, combine them with dusty miller and the look is just exquisite! Check out this bouquet made by the fabulous Carissa of JL Designs.

Photo Courtesy of Bollea

How great is this boutonniere? The white spray roses combined with foliage and the softness of the dusty miller is just so sweet!

Photo Courtesy of Floral Verde

I love this smaller centerpiece off the Martha Stewart website using the dusty miller with a pink palette!

Photo Courtesy of Martha Stewart

What I love must about Dusty Miller is it's versatility, it looks just as wonderful with a neutral palette as it does with some color! Check out this gorgeous fall colored tablescape by the ever so wonderful Susan of Peony and Plum!

I absolutely adore this final photo of an oyster shell wedding cake. How beautiful is this!

Photo Courtesy of Flickr

Hope you enjoyed viewing all the many ways you can add a little dusty miller into your look!