Catersource Conference and Tradeshow- Paris Las Vegas and LVCC

Here are some highlights of our weeklong trip to Las Vegas for the Catersource Conference and Tradeshow.  We learned so much while mingling with some of the top industry professionals.  Enjoy!







5 Trends for 2014

From décor to themes to corporate event ideas, these five event trends are gaining steam in the New Year. Discover what fun ideas are hot for 2014. 

1. Marquee Signs

Whether it’s spelling out words like “LOVE” and “BAR” or exaggerating initials, marquee signs are being used all over in events and décor. The retro displays can be used as signage throughout the event landscape and as sweet announcements incorporated into any style event.  

2. Events for a Cause

2014 may be the year where charitable events skyrocket in popularity. More and more event professionals are finding ways to incorporate charitable donations into their events, from using vendors and suppliers that offer incentive-based platforms to offering donations based on participation to organizing community events as part of their marketing strategies.  
 

3. Shapes and Patterns

Gone are the days of single color themes! Well, not really, but you can at least expect to see a greater use of patterns in the coming year. Geometric shapes, fun patterns like houndstooth, floral prints and polka dots are playing a role in many events as designers and clients work to create statement pieces. Color blocking is also transferring from the runway into more events, both with multiple colors and with simple black and white designs, making it a little easier to take those dramatically different colors and combine them into one cover-worthy event.  
 

4. Rustic Modern Décor

The conventional idea of taking a rustic look and adding décor elements to create an upscale appearance is still going strong and will continue through the beginning of the year. Using mirrors, metallic centerpieces, marquee signs and feathers in your décor can add that modern touch to your traditional rustic event complete with mason jars, exposed wood furnishings and farm-to-table catering. Adding an industrial flair to traditionally rustic designs is also increasing in popularity, using rusted pipes, natural stone, chrome finishes and exposed engineering (think Steampunk) to create a modernized Industrial Revolution-style design.  
 

5. Unique Venues

Traditional banquet halls and religious institutions may see a decline in event production as consumers look towards unique venues for their events. The Gatsby sensation of 2013 has turned clients on to venues with opulence and majestic features, such as old-style mansions and country clubs. Clients are also trying to make a statement with their venue by finding unique properties like museums, warehouses, concert venues and college campus hotspots.

Wedding Photography Tips and Ideas

A wedding is one of the most important events in your life. Photographs that document your special day provide memories that will last a lifetime, so you want to be sure they are done right. Here are a few guidelines that will ensure you capture the best moments.  

1.         Photo List

There is no bigger disappointment than discovering there are missing friends or family from your wedding photos.  Prepare a list of photos you want taken for the wedding and reception including a list of all family members and friends you want included in the formal pictures. In addition to photos with your wedding party, there should be extended family photos of the bride's family, the groom's family and combined photos of the immediate families.  Incorporate the photo session into your timeline for the day allowing at least one hour to finish (more time if you have a big family). Preparing a list prior to the big day eliminates the chance of missed shots. 

2.         Location

Scout the location to find the best shots.  The photographer should visit the wedding venue prior to the actual wedding day.   By scouting the site, the photographer can determine the best locations for shooting photos.   They should also meet with the on-site wedding coordinator to discuss any rules or guidelines they may have for taking photos.  The coordinator may also suggest the perfect locations based on other weddings that have been held at the location. Try to make the site visit around the same time of day that the wedding will take place to assess lighting conditions. 

3.         Backup Plans

Anything can go wrong on the big day, but it won't be a problem if you are prepared for the unexpected. Prepare a list of alternate wedding shot locations in the event of inclement weather. Determine appropriate indoor locations at the venue that provide nice backdrops should the weather drive you inside. Be prepared for deviations in the photography time line to accommodate unexpected changes.

4.         Candid Shots

Though the staged shots of your wedding hold importance, the candid photos often capture even more meaningful memories. Your photographer should be on hand during the bulk of the reception to shoot as many candids as possible. You can also tell your guests to download apps like WedPics where they can take photos on their phones that upload to one online gallery.  You will have tons of candid photos from your guests to look at after the festivities are over. 

5.         Offbeat photo shoot

Many wedding couples choose to stage some offbeat photo shoots in addition to the wedding day. Brides who have no desire to save their wedding dress are opting for "trash the dress" shoots.   The couple will dive into a pool or slide in mud to get some unique photos for their album.

Spa Ready for the Big Day..

 

Spas are the perfect place to get ready for your wedding day. But what spa treatments should you get, and when should you get them? Here's a treatment timetable that works for your big day.

Getting Ready for your Wedding At the Spa:

1.         Two months to go – Get more aggressive facial treatments like micro-dermabrasion and glycolic peels. They remove the skin's outer layers and leave you glowing, but the skin needs time to recover.

2.         One month to go: Get a facial to deeply cleanse, exfoliate and treat your face and neck. Extractions and outbreaks will  have time to clear up.

3.         Two weeks to go: Get a body treatment like a salt glow to look perfect in skin-revealing gowns.

Follow with a relaxing massage or hot stone massage.  Drink plenty of water afterwards.

If you like the tan look, get a spray tan for a beautiful golden glow.

4.         One week to go: Get your spa manicure and pedicure out of the way.

5.         Wedding Day!: Now that all of your spa appointments are done, it’s time to concentrate on hair, make-up and getting dressed to look your bridal best.

Stay tuned for more great tips, features and fun facts on our weekly return to our blog.