Thanksgiving is one of my favorite times of year, not just because I do enjoy turkey with cranberry sauce, but because it is one of the few times of year that most everyone will take a few days to spend with family and friends and also take the time to reflect on the positives in their life.
Last night we had our annual Oahu Wedding Association (OWA) holiday party and we collected canned food donations for Aloha Harvest who helps feed Hawaii's hungry. Another canned food drive is planned in the early part of December at our National Association of Catering Executives (NACE) holiday party as well as our fourth year in adopting a family for Christmas through the Lokahi Giving project.
This year as I reflect, I am truly thankful for......
Two healthy and beautiful children that are growing into fine young adults
My friends and family that always support me........even on those challenging days we all have
My clients who entrusted me with their most special celebration with many becoming friends and continued supporters
Kiya and Kona (our dogs) who make sure that I take a breaks from the computer by literally sitting on top of my arms to ensure I stop and play with them. They're so much fun to watch during their "mad dog" runs around the house too!
Having my own businesses and doing what I LOVE!
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Jayne and Kahele's "Wedding of a Lifetime"
Since September 8th when they announced the winners, I had the privilege and honor of being of service to a very sweet and gracious couple from Waianae. After 15 years together they are finally Mr. and Mrs. William Kahele Anderson, Jr!
The festivities began on Wednesday, November 5th with their rehearsal at the Ocean Crystal Chapel followed by a "ono" rehearsal dinner at the Bayer Estate featuring Hawaiian food with their chef's culinary twist and incredible desserts from Sugar Rush.
As Jayne and Kahele both love the ocean, we made the theme of the rehearsal dinner casual with an ocean theme featuring turquoise irredescent linen graciously donated by A'a Party Supplies and beautiful centerpieces from Su-V Expressions with sand, shells and blue hydrangia which perfectly complimented the theme.
"The Big Day" was on Thursday, November 6th. When Kahele had his "first look" of Jayne in her Tamara Katz wedding gown it was just priceless. Those are the moments that just warm your heart and makes all of your hard work worth while.
The ceremony was officiated by their family pastor which made it even more meaningful. The Manueali'i outfits and florals was absolutely breathtaking as the sun shined through the glass window and created a glow over the couple as they said their vows.
My next favorite part of the day was to see Jayne and Kahele's expressions as they entered their reception room which featured a head table on the stage and three long rectangle tables with ivory satin linen, chocolate runners, gold chargers, personalized menus, mahogany chiavari chairs with cherry blossom pink and champagne sashes, cupcake favors from Hokulani, lots of candles and incredible florals from Spinning web which perfectly complimented both their wedding colors, but also tied in the "cherry blossoms" she wanted to use with manzanita branches with orchids to create a similar look.
After seeing the beautiful tables, Jayne said "what's that?" as she saw a candy buffet that also was in her wedding colors. The candy buffet was my surprise "wedding gift" to the bride and groom and was very popular with their guests.
The couple truly enjoyed their special evening and one of the most touching parts was when Kahele gave a blessing to all the vendors that helped to make it possible.
The festivities began on Wednesday, November 5th with their rehearsal at the Ocean Crystal Chapel followed by a "ono" rehearsal dinner at the Bayer Estate featuring Hawaiian food with their chef's culinary twist and incredible desserts from Sugar Rush.
As Jayne and Kahele both love the ocean, we made the theme of the rehearsal dinner casual with an ocean theme featuring turquoise irredescent linen graciously donated by A'a Party Supplies and beautiful centerpieces from Su-V Expressions with sand, shells and blue hydrangia which perfectly complimented the theme.
"The Big Day" was on Thursday, November 6th. When Kahele had his "first look" of Jayne in her Tamara Katz wedding gown it was just priceless. Those are the moments that just warm your heart and makes all of your hard work worth while.
The ceremony was officiated by their family pastor which made it even more meaningful. The Manueali'i outfits and florals was absolutely breathtaking as the sun shined through the glass window and created a glow over the couple as they said their vows.
My next favorite part of the day was to see Jayne and Kahele's expressions as they entered their reception room which featured a head table on the stage and three long rectangle tables with ivory satin linen, chocolate runners, gold chargers, personalized menus, mahogany chiavari chairs with cherry blossom pink and champagne sashes, cupcake favors from Hokulani, lots of candles and incredible florals from Spinning web which perfectly complimented both their wedding colors, but also tied in the "cherry blossoms" she wanted to use with manzanita branches with orchids to create a similar look.
After seeing the beautiful tables, Jayne said "what's that?" as she saw a candy buffet that also was in her wedding colors. The candy buffet was my surprise "wedding gift" to the bride and groom and was very popular with their guests.
The couple truly enjoyed their special evening and one of the most touching parts was when Kahele gave a blessing to all the vendors that helped to make it possible.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Putting together all the pieces in only 9 days!
The past week has been a a whirlwind as I was hired on Thursday, October 23rd as a "day of" coordinator for a wedding on Saturday, November 1st at the Outrigger Canoe Club.
The groom had contacted me a few months ago from Japan and inquired about services, but with family here in Honolulu he thought that they could handle everything for their destination wedding, but then realized they needed help so he contacted me again.
So how do you pull things together at a venue you've never worked at and also help the client secure a DJ and photographer? First I start to gather as much information from the couple using a questionnaire form that I have developed which is quite comprehensive. The answers allow me to cover about 90% of the event details and create a realistic timeline for the day.
As for the venue, that was not a concern for me. As a professional planner, I am able to work at any facility, all I need is one quick walk through to see the layout, access points and also know my on-site contact(s), time frames for set-up and the site rules. I originally planned to do a walk through on October 30th with the client, but as their catering manager would be away on vacation, I ended up meeting with her on October 27th which made my client feel even more at ease.
I gave recommendations on photographers as well as a DJ who also ended up providing the equpment for the slideshow and matched the price the club was offering. As much as possible, I try to combine some services, especially where AV is concerned. There are just too many opportunities for something to go wrong (missing cables, DVD not working, sound level not right, etc.) and I don't want to take any chances as the slide show is always one of the highlights for both the couple and their guests.
The Outrigger Canoe Club is an oceanfront venue with a fantastic view. In speaking with the manager, they haven't done alot of banquets there, but after working as a "team" with his crew he asked for my business card and said I really would like to do more!
Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the evening, and one of my favorite parts of event planning is when the bride gives a hug, and is truly having fun on her wedding day!
The groom had contacted me a few months ago from Japan and inquired about services, but with family here in Honolulu he thought that they could handle everything for their destination wedding, but then realized they needed help so he contacted me again.
So how do you pull things together at a venue you've never worked at and also help the client secure a DJ and photographer? First I start to gather as much information from the couple using a questionnaire form that I have developed which is quite comprehensive. The answers allow me to cover about 90% of the event details and create a realistic timeline for the day.
As for the venue, that was not a concern for me. As a professional planner, I am able to work at any facility, all I need is one quick walk through to see the layout, access points and also know my on-site contact(s), time frames for set-up and the site rules. I originally planned to do a walk through on October 30th with the client, but as their catering manager would be away on vacation, I ended up meeting with her on October 27th which made my client feel even more at ease.
I gave recommendations on photographers as well as a DJ who also ended up providing the equpment for the slideshow and matched the price the club was offering. As much as possible, I try to combine some services, especially where AV is concerned. There are just too many opportunities for something to go wrong (missing cables, DVD not working, sound level not right, etc.) and I don't want to take any chances as the slide show is always one of the highlights for both the couple and their guests.
The Outrigger Canoe Club is an oceanfront venue with a fantastic view. In speaking with the manager, they haven't done alot of banquets there, but after working as a "team" with his crew he asked for my business card and said I really would like to do more!
Everyone thoroughly enjoyed the evening, and one of my favorite parts of event planning is when the bride gives a hug, and is truly having fun on her wedding day!
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Naruto Birthday Party!
Yes, that is correct, I'm in the midst of planning a Naruto birthday party for one of my client's son who will turn 8 next month.
This will be the third year that I've had the privilege to be of service to them and I love it because they tell me what their son likes this year (which becomes the theme) and then I do everything from beginning to end (invitations, food, decor, games, photography, video, prizes, goodie bags, etc.)
The first year was Star Wars which was held at Manoa district park. Having Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader stiltwalkers parading around surely did catch everyone's attention from the baseball fields!
Last year the birthday boy was really into baseball, so we not only were wearing baseball jourseys, but we included singing the national anthem, throwing of the first ball, a baseball pinata, a custom invitation that had the days activities noted "inning by inning" and the talents of Mark Mauricio an awesome local magician amazing parents and children alike.
Naruto is a new one for me, but I'm up for the challenge. This is what I love about event planning, each and every day you have something unique!
This will be the third year that I've had the privilege to be of service to them and I love it because they tell me what their son likes this year (which becomes the theme) and then I do everything from beginning to end (invitations, food, decor, games, photography, video, prizes, goodie bags, etc.)
The first year was Star Wars which was held at Manoa district park. Having Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader stiltwalkers parading around surely did catch everyone's attention from the baseball fields!
Last year the birthday boy was really into baseball, so we not only were wearing baseball jourseys, but we included singing the national anthem, throwing of the first ball, a baseball pinata, a custom invitation that had the days activities noted "inning by inning" and the talents of Mark Mauricio an awesome local magician amazing parents and children alike.
Naruto is a new one for me, but I'm up for the challenge. This is what I love about event planning, each and every day you have something unique!
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Hawaii Weddings and Events Frequently Asked Questions
Trusting your "special day" to someone else is not always easy, so I always welcome questions from clients to make them feel at ease and comfortable with their decision.
Throughout my consultations, I have found some "common" questions, so I thought I would create a quick FAQ sheet:
What is your background? Prior to starting my own event planning business, I was the Director of Catering and Conference Services at the five diamond Kahala Mandarin Oriental, Hawaii resort (since changing ownership it is now called the The Kahala Resort). I have been in hotel industry since moving to Hawaii in 1984 working in a variety of positions at a vareity of hotels (front desk, assistant hotel manager, sales and marketing, food and beverage, controllers office and catering). Once I got into catering then I knew that was my true passion and pursued it.
What does CPCE and CMP stand for? CPCE is Certified Professional Catering Executive which is comprehensive exam covering all aspects of catering, food sanitation, laws, etc. (both hotel and off-premise) that the National Association of Catering Executives created to promote professionalism and excellence in our industry. CMP is Certified Meeting Planner which is another exam that Meeting Planners International has that covers the "convention" side of business (housing, shipping, meeting specifications, etc.) as I also handled groups when I worked at the resort. Currently I'm still the only person in the State of Hawaii that has both designations.
How many weddings have you done? When I worked at the resort I did over 800 weddings since I started in catering in September of 2007. That number does not include include the galas, fundraisers, Christmas parties, meetings, President George W. Bush layover visit, Michelle Wie's press conference or off-premise events including dinners on the stage at The Hawaii Theatre (which was very cool!). Since starting my company March 23, 2006, I just finished my 103rd event this past weekend and through referrals from my clients, my business has been growing rapidly as I approach my third year (........wow, time flies when you're having fun!)
How many events do you do in a month? It really depends on the scope and type of the event. In some cases I may be a "day-of coordinator" and in other cases I'm their full service planner, or most often somewhere in between as I really enjoy the "partnership" packages and working alongside the client. Other factors depend on location, number of guests, amount of time for set-up, number of hours the event is, etc. From my years of experience I know what I am capable of and I will not take more events than I can handle as giving my clients the service they deserve is very important to long term success. Money isn't everything.
We're not sure what package is best for us, do you provide a consultation? Yes, of course! I purposely don't post my rates on my website for the sole reason that it is better for me to learn more about your event, budget, etc. to determine what package may be best suited for you. I am also happy to customize a package for you.
We're from the mainland, do you do destination weddings? Actually, destination weddings represent 70% of my business! With today's technology, it makes it very easy to plan from afar (except that you physically can't see things which I know can be a little unnverving at times) but e-mail works out great due to the time difference. Even with my local clients, alot of the planning is done via e-mail because of convenience, so don't worry, it CAN be done!
Do you have an assistant? Generally I work alone as I am very methodical in my approach to planning and by the time the day comes I have literally done a "virtual tour" of the event through my head and know exactly what needs to be done, when and how long it will take me. If there is a "crunch period" due to short windows of time for set-up or perhaps alot of decor, etc. then I will bring in additional staff which is at my own expense. By working from a home-based business and not having to pay a regular full time staff I am able to keep prices down which in turn benefits you.
We're ready, how do we reserve the date!? A contract will be prepared and sent to you via e-mail to your attention requesting a 50% non-refundable retainer. Upon receipt of the contract and retainer the date is confirmed and a receipt will be sent via e-mail. I will also send a bridal questionnaire form that assists in the planning process.
Throughout my consultations, I have found some "common" questions, so I thought I would create a quick FAQ sheet:
What is your background? Prior to starting my own event planning business, I was the Director of Catering and Conference Services at the five diamond Kahala Mandarin Oriental, Hawaii resort (since changing ownership it is now called the The Kahala Resort). I have been in hotel industry since moving to Hawaii in 1984 working in a variety of positions at a vareity of hotels (front desk, assistant hotel manager, sales and marketing, food and beverage, controllers office and catering). Once I got into catering then I knew that was my true passion and pursued it.
What does CPCE and CMP stand for? CPCE is Certified Professional Catering Executive which is comprehensive exam covering all aspects of catering, food sanitation, laws, etc. (both hotel and off-premise) that the National Association of Catering Executives created to promote professionalism and excellence in our industry. CMP is Certified Meeting Planner which is another exam that Meeting Planners International has that covers the "convention" side of business (housing, shipping, meeting specifications, etc.) as I also handled groups when I worked at the resort. Currently I'm still the only person in the State of Hawaii that has both designations.
How many weddings have you done? When I worked at the resort I did over 800 weddings since I started in catering in September of 2007. That number does not include include the galas, fundraisers, Christmas parties, meetings, President George W. Bush layover visit, Michelle Wie's press conference or off-premise events including dinners on the stage at The Hawaii Theatre (which was very cool!). Since starting my company March 23, 2006, I just finished my 103rd event this past weekend and through referrals from my clients, my business has been growing rapidly as I approach my third year (........wow, time flies when you're having fun!)
How many events do you do in a month? It really depends on the scope and type of the event. In some cases I may be a "day-of coordinator" and in other cases I'm their full service planner, or most often somewhere in between as I really enjoy the "partnership" packages and working alongside the client. Other factors depend on location, number of guests, amount of time for set-up, number of hours the event is, etc. From my years of experience I know what I am capable of and I will not take more events than I can handle as giving my clients the service they deserve is very important to long term success. Money isn't everything.
We're not sure what package is best for us, do you provide a consultation? Yes, of course! I purposely don't post my rates on my website for the sole reason that it is better for me to learn more about your event, budget, etc. to determine what package may be best suited for you. I am also happy to customize a package for you.
We're from the mainland, do you do destination weddings? Actually, destination weddings represent 70% of my business! With today's technology, it makes it very easy to plan from afar (except that you physically can't see things which I know can be a little unnverving at times) but e-mail works out great due to the time difference. Even with my local clients, alot of the planning is done via e-mail because of convenience, so don't worry, it CAN be done!
Do you have an assistant? Generally I work alone as I am very methodical in my approach to planning and by the time the day comes I have literally done a "virtual tour" of the event through my head and know exactly what needs to be done, when and how long it will take me. If there is a "crunch period" due to short windows of time for set-up or perhaps alot of decor, etc. then I will bring in additional staff which is at my own expense. By working from a home-based business and not having to pay a regular full time staff I am able to keep prices down which in turn benefits you.
We're ready, how do we reserve the date!? A contract will be prepared and sent to you via e-mail to your attention requesting a 50% non-refundable retainer. Upon receipt of the contract and retainer the date is confirmed and a receipt will be sent via e-mail. I will also send a bridal questionnaire form that assists in the planning process.
Monday, October 20, 2008
"Winners have simply formed the habit of doing things losers don't like to do." - Albert Gray
Every morning I wake up, play with my pupppies (now officially dogs since it's Kona's first birthday today) and read a little motivational quote.
Taking the time to listen and learn more about what a client envisions allows me the opportunity to define which package will best suit their needs, or create a custom package for them which turns out to be a "win-win" situation for both of us. In the early stages of planning, my brides may not know what their needs are so I suggest a "day-of" package to secure the date and if they find they need additional assistance they can always upgrade their package later.
My clients know that I am very realistic in my approach to planning and the first thing I like to do is see what their wedding budget is and determine if it indeed workable. Sometimes we have to look at an alternative venue to make the budget work, or look at other possible areas where we can cut back on the costs, including the number of hours that I may be on site, but still have a very nice event.
I've also created a variety of affordable "partnership" packages such as the "Lanikuhonua Where Heaven Meets the Earth" which allows my clients to be very actively involved in their planning while at the same time have the support behind them and on-site coordinator on their wedding day to ensure everything is seamless.
As a certified professional planner it is my job to let you know what works and doesn't work, the years of experience I offer can save you both time and money and most importantly alot of headaches and wasted efforts. The typical response I get at the end of an event is "Thank you so much, we couldn't have done it without you!"
I absolutely LOVE what I do, and that is helping to make amazing, fun and stress-free celebrations!
Taking the time to listen and learn more about what a client envisions allows me the opportunity to define which package will best suit their needs, or create a custom package for them which turns out to be a "win-win" situation for both of us. In the early stages of planning, my brides may not know what their needs are so I suggest a "day-of" package to secure the date and if they find they need additional assistance they can always upgrade their package later.
My clients know that I am very realistic in my approach to planning and the first thing I like to do is see what their wedding budget is and determine if it indeed workable. Sometimes we have to look at an alternative venue to make the budget work, or look at other possible areas where we can cut back on the costs, including the number of hours that I may be on site, but still have a very nice event.
I've also created a variety of affordable "partnership" packages such as the "Lanikuhonua Where Heaven Meets the Earth" which allows my clients to be very actively involved in their planning while at the same time have the support behind them and on-site coordinator on their wedding day to ensure everything is seamless.
As a certified professional planner it is my job to let you know what works and doesn't work, the years of experience I offer can save you both time and money and most importantly alot of headaches and wasted efforts. The typical response I get at the end of an event is "Thank you so much, we couldn't have done it without you!"
I absolutely LOVE what I do, and that is helping to make amazing, fun and stress-free celebrations!
My wedding couple is a finalist in Pacific Weddings Photo Contest
Dear family and friends,
I'm so excited to let you know that one of my destination wedding couples (Jeff and Ericka) wedding picture has been chosen as one of the 10 finalists (out of hundreds of entries!) in the Pacific Weddings photo contest.
The picture with the most votes will win the contest and the winning photo will be featured in the winter/spring issue of the Pacific Weddings magazine.
Go to the link below. Our pic is #10 Swept Away by Frank Amodo. You can vote by indicating the photo # and leaving a comment on the Pacific Weddings blog.
http://pacificweddings.typepad.com/love_notes/2008/10/cast-your-vote.html
It truly is a wonderful picture!
I'm so excited to let you know that one of my destination wedding couples (Jeff and Ericka) wedding picture has been chosen as one of the 10 finalists (out of hundreds of entries!) in the Pacific Weddings photo contest.
The picture with the most votes will win the contest and the winning photo will be featured in the winter/spring issue of the Pacific Weddings magazine.
Go to the link below. Our pic is #10 Swept Away by Frank Amodo. You can vote by indicating the photo # and leaving a comment on the Pacific Weddings blog.
http://pacificweddings.typepad.com/love_notes/2008/10/cast-your-vote.html
It truly is a wonderful picture!
"Wedding of a Lifetime"
Just touched bases with Jayne and Kahele to reconfirm our site inspection of the Bayer Estate for their rehearsal dinner on November 5, 2008.
Jayne and Kahele are the winners of Hawaii Bride and Groom's annual "Wedding of a Lifetime" contest whereby vendors donate their services to one lucky and deserving couple. Couples have to submit a story and three lucky finalists were featured on a television show with a live airing of the announcement of the winner on September 8th.
The wedding is scheduled for November 6, 2008 so it has been a whirlwind of planning, but I've enjoyed every minute! Jayne and Kahele have had some difficult times and Jayne is still going through cancer treatment, so to see their faces light up like kids at Disneyland is what makes it all worthwhile.
Stay tuned........the wedding day is getting closer and will be featured on a TV show in January and also featured in Hawaii Bride and Groom magazine.
Jayne and Kahele are the winners of Hawaii Bride and Groom's annual "Wedding of a Lifetime" contest whereby vendors donate their services to one lucky and deserving couple. Couples have to submit a story and three lucky finalists were featured on a television show with a live airing of the announcement of the winner on September 8th.
The wedding is scheduled for November 6, 2008 so it has been a whirlwind of planning, but I've enjoyed every minute! Jayne and Kahele have had some difficult times and Jayne is still going through cancer treatment, so to see their faces light up like kids at Disneyland is what makes it all worthwhile.
Stay tuned........the wedding day is getting closer and will be featured on a TV show in January and also featured in Hawaii Bride and Groom magazine.
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