Wednesday, November 11, 2009

My Florida Venue Picks

#1: The Ringling Museum: Ca d'Zan Mansion located in Sarasota, Florida. This Terra cotta "last of the Gilded Ages" in America gives a royal, vintage feel. Your guest can tour the museum as your bridal party takes pictures. One of my brides got married there last Spring in a silk taffeta Marisa gown adorn with a lace bolero. Lace and pearls is a great way to tie in this "piece of art" venue.

#2: Carillon Weddings in Carillon Beach, Florida. When I think of Florida weddings this is the first one that comes to mind. Its the ultimate beach wedding hot spot located in the panhandle. Within one location they have the beach, chapel, garden, and can arrange for a tent as well. A clean line, airy dress from Watters, Marisa, or Alvina would fit perfectly into this oceanfront view.

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#3: Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, Miami, FL. Similar to the Ringling Museum your guest can explore the museum and gardens of Vizcaya as they mingle by the ocean bay. There is a certain formality that can not be denied with this site. Vizcaya has hosted many royal guest including
Queen Elizabeth II, Pope John Paul II, President Ronald Reagan, and King Juan Carlos I and Queen Sofia of Spain. We suggest going with a traditional ballgown such as Bel Canto by Kenneth Pool.

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#4: More closer to home, Portifino Bay Hotel in Orlando is a popular destination spot for local weddings. This venue provides a little taste of Italy with piazzas and bay view. There is also an elegant ballroom for a more formal setting. Depending on what direction your going for we would recommend going for a more architectural pleasing dress with touches of lace or beaded embroidery.

#5: For our Gator Brides we couldn't leave out the only venue located on University of Florida property. One of our very own consultants, Kari, exchanged vows at the Baughman Center. Over looking Lake Alice, this quaint chapel is ideal for a 100 person wedding. You could pull off several looks for this venue, but we would recommend staying away from the ballgown due to the narrow aisle.

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~ Those are top Florida Venue Picks! Make sure to post a comment if there are any venue hot spots you've found! ~

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Top 10 Advice on finding the DRESS!

  • Number One Rule: Be open minded! What you think reminds you of your grandmother's dress on the hanger, may in fact be the dress of your dreams.
  • Bring someone that knows your style better than their own. I'm sure the groom doesn't want to see you in something that your bestfriend would wear on her wedding day
  • DON'T PURCHASE YOUR DRESS ONLINE! You miss out on the whole experience.
  • Don't worry what the groom will think. If he loves you, he will love what you pick.
  • Have fun! Remember that you have been dreaming of this day since you were five. Don't let the decision put a cloud over your head
  • If you hate the little bow on the dress, ask the consultant if you can order it without.it. Chances are you can. Keep in mind (contrary to what the magazines always say) there might be a charge for it. It won't lower the cost of the dress.
  • Price vs. Love: If you love the dress, GO FOR IT! Don't settle for less on what your wearing for your big day. You can always take some of the budget from the centerpieces and so on. No one will know and we won't tell.
  • Research designers online and make a scrap book of styles that you like. Do keep in mind, that it may all change when you start trying on.
  • Save the group shopping for the mall. This should be a personal experience that you should only share with one or two.
  • When you find it, you find it. Don't second guess yourself or you will pick your second favorite.