Association of Bridal Consultants

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Real Wedding Lousiana

Grace_and_Colby_1002-2Planner: Donna Brian, MWP™, Love in Bloom, LLC, www.Donnabrianevents.com, Dloveinbloom@gmail.com Time in industry: 19 yearsPhotographer: Katherine Gaiennie Fine PhotographyBusinesses involved: Sweetie Cakes, Duvall and Perch Rentals, First United Methodist Church, 601 Spring, Corey Carlson Caricature, IShuttle, Squires, Bella Bridesmaid Silver Star, Wine Country, Shreveport LimoWedding date: March 25, 2017Guest count: 500Grace_and_Colby_1563-2The couple: Colby proposed to Grace on New Year’s Eve. Family and friends were surprised with the big news as the midnight hour occurred. This couple enjoys spending time with friends, traveling, and relaxing at the lake.Involvement: Full-service consultingGrace_and_Colby_1582-2Inspiration: Southern style with glitz. Smilax, magnolia flowers, and candles were hung on suspending frames over the dance floor and guest tables. Concrete columns were strung with twinkle lights and smilax. Grace carried a bouquet of botanical flowers with southern blooms. The groom’s cake was a tiered, round chocolate butter cream cake. Colby loves to hunt, so it was decorated with a traditional hunting décor. A duck was designed as the topper surrounded by icing grass.“Aha” design moment: I wanted the event to be high energy with great entertainment. We created a great lounge area with beautiful furniture, communal tables, candles, and ghost chairs. This allowed guests to relax, take a break, or get away. The touches of gold and blush were carried out in the décor.Grace_and_Colby_1571-2Most unique design element: Hanging wooden frames were decorated with greenery, magnolias, and battery-operated candles.Color palette: Navy, blush, white, cream, green and gold.Budget: $150,000Staff hours: 75 hoursPlanning time: 14 monthsClient meetings: 5Set up/strike details: Setup/strike took 20 hours of staff time.Revenue breakdown: 72% planning, 20% rentals, 8% giftsLearnings: I would confirm the carver would deliver the ice sculpture. This would lead to less chaos on the set up for the catering company. WPMGrace_and_Colby_1530-2