Spring 2010 Color Trends

I conferred with Trend Consultant, Tracey Mammolito (she also happens to be one of my besties – how lucky am I?) on what the color trends will be for next year, specifically Spring 2010.

Following is what we agreed will be Hot! Hot! Hot!

YELLOW
Beginning in Spring 2008, yellow was all over the runways but Tracey believes this trend coincides with the Presidential election and Obama’s campaign message of “HOPE”. I couldn’t agree more, what other color screams optimism than yellow?





GREEN
A reoccurring trend since 2007 has been the “green wedding”. Also related to the political climate (no pun intended) a continued focus of eco-conscious events.

With any event, there are numerous opportunities to make ethical and informed decisions. Consider using organic flowers for centerpieces, recycled paper for invitations, and local/organic foods on the menu. Each decision will make a difference!

If you are a couple concerned about the carbon footprint for your wedding, I encourage you to read Emily Anderson’s Eco-Chic Weddings and/or visit her blog for great ideas to keep your wedding “green” http://www.ecochicweddings.typepad.com/

BLUE
Mammolito says 2010 is more about a lighter, more delicate shade of blue. Tones which emit a sense of calm and serenity. Martha Stewart Weddings just had an AMAZING layout of sea-glass inspired palettes…















PURPLE
Mammolito says "Purple" is an it color for 2010. I say purple, eggplant, plum, and shades of lavender are going to be all over the place. Perfectly paired with silver, cranberry, green or even navy. You cannot go wrong.

I found this image online - photograph by Jerry Yoon - me LOVEY! Those shoes!!!

Where Beauty Meets Buttercream

I don’t know about you, but I love me some cake!

Ice cream cake, chocolate cake, red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting, (cake without frosting), I rarely discriminate.

When it comes to cakes for events – weddings, bat/bar mitzvahs, bridal showers etc… my love and appreciation extends way beyond the various combinations or layers of flavor. I admire and respect the vision, skill, and creativity that go in to making such beautiful works of art.

Clearly I’m not alone. The artistry is recognized everywhere these days, just flip through your cable channels and you’ll see “Ace of Cakes”, “Cake Boss”, “Amazing Wedding Cakes” just to name a few.

The cake and its display at any milestone event is a huge part of your overall design - a centerpiece onto itself!

I just learned about this great company called Raise the Cake.

They specialize in creating cake stands to coordinate with your cake and event décor. You can have a stand custom made or choose from one of the many collections. I've included my favorite images here from their website and to see many more visit: www.raisethecake.com

Vivian's Hot List

No, I’m not talking about my top 5 celebrity crushes here (that could be another blog altogether) – I’m talking about what’s hot, the next big thing, things l absolutely love as it relates the world of event planning.

I return energized and moved by so many talented industry professionals I met at the ISES Event World 2009 conference in San Fran just this past week. Thus, my Hot List:

David Merrell, AOO Events
David is truly a guru of all things design. He has produced some amazing events around the world and graciously shares his ideas with other professionals (good karma) in his blog: www.designdawgs.com.

Lighting, Linens, & Chairs

My passion (some say obsession) with the aforementioned was confirmed while speaking with another conference attendee. An event planner herself, she told me about her recent experience planning her own wedding. We both got giddy as we discussed Pintuck Linens, Chiavari Chairs, and simple yet sophisticated lighting options to set the mood for any special event. As my clients will attest, these are the items I encourage them to spend money on – Lighting, Linens, & Chairs.

* Lighting: Whether your vision is classic or contemporary, creative and affordable lighting options can add ambiance to your event and give even a modest centerpiece depth and vibrancy. LED lighting (light emitting diode) is more widely available than ever before and in many forms and colors. In many cases brides and event designers are opting to replace traditional candles with equally affordable eco-friendly LED or combining LED with traditional or soy candles.

* Linens: You spend considerable time thinking about the message you want to send with your special event right? Why not take it to the next level and use the right linens to make your unique style come to life? Linens, napkins, aisle and table runners come in the most amazing patterns these days and using a mixture of textures, colors and patterns anything is possible!

* Chairs: If there is one element that can make or break your decor aesthetic, it is the chairs you choose. A beautifully dressed table gets lost if it is surrounded by ten ugly chairs sticking out like a sore thumb. Fortunately, there are a variety of seating options and solutions available on the rental market.

KEP Designs
We event professionals often talk about what and where we find inspiration. In addition to special event and wedding magazines, I definitely obtain ideas and motivation from mainstream lifestyle and fashion mags.

Once upon a time not so long ago… a beautiful gold enamel and “creamsicle” necklace caught my eye. Immediately I ripped the page from the magazine and posted it on my vision board. I treated myself a few months later and receive compliments every time I wear it.

What can I say? Me lovey! I’m a huge fan of the “Flower Collection”. They make perfect gifts for any bridesmaid (or bride!)

ISES Event World 2009!

I'm leaving today for the ISES Event World 2009 Conference in San Fran.

You will definitelty be hearing from me over the course of the next few days as I continue to learn from my fellow event professionals...

Networking, industry trends, and budgets... Oh My!