Why rehearse when you can just get married?

At least, that’s what our fashion-forward, ahead-of-the-curve clients thought two years ago when they asked us to produce their chic Main Line wedding celebration. It was an incredible wedding weekend that began with an intimate at-home wedding ceremony and Marc Vetri-catered dinner on Friday, followed by another ceremony and larger tented party catered by Peter Callahan on Saturday. As it turned out, the Friday wedding for 25 of the couple’s closest family and friends proved to be one of most endearing evenings we’ve designed.

{Photos: Mel Barlow of Mel & Co.}

As their guests were arriving for the wedding, the couple’s photographer, Mel Barlow, captured these lovely, emotional portraits of the stylish bride and groom.

Years ago, we had the pleasure of designing the bride’s bat mitzvah on a tennis court on the same property. Luckily for us, despite the warm September temperatures, this time the weather cooperated with the festivities. Once all the guests arrived, and they were happily enjoying hors d’oeuvres and bubbly poured by Jeff Benjamin of the Vetri Family, the first order of business was to sign the Ketubah. From there, guests witnessed the couple’s traditional Jewish ceremony under a simple white birch, hand-carried Chuppah before making their way to the Porch for dinner.

Nowhere is it more apparent that this is a remarkable, one-of-a-kind home than it is in the stunning screened porch. Archer and Buchanan Architects designed the home with precision and sophistication, allowing the family to enjoy their modern creek-side manor in complete seclusion. From the get-go, the Porch was the ideal location for the sit-down dinner for 25 guests. However, rather than compete with the already eye-catching space, we designed the nuptial dinner using clear glass tables, clear stemware and lucite chairs. Keeping the tablescape light, airy and modern, we created minimalist low centerpieces in clear glass using only white mini callas, hydrangea and parrot tulips. Floating candles in stemmed hurricanes at various heights paired with low lucite votive candle holders provided the soft lighting on the table surface. Once the sun had set, the candles reflected beautifully off the glass for an amazing mirror-like glow.

A dream of the couple’s from the beginning of the planning process was to have award-winning Chef, restaurateur and best-selling cookbook author Marc Vetri prepare their wedding dinner. Marc and his talented team commandeered the client’s kitchen with ease, charm and efficiency. Chef Vetri’s business partner, Jeff Benjamin, worked his usual magic with the wine and champagne selections, pairing them perfectly with each item on the menu. Truly, each vintage was better than the last.

Something quite special, and perhaps, a little known fact, Chef Vetri actually pens his own menus for each guest.

No one enjoyed the dinner celebration more than the happy couple. Always good storytellers, from the looks of things, they’re sharing quite a tale! {look at their hands!} Perhaps it was about the food, or another dinner at Chef Vetri’s restaurant, Vetri, the couple’s favorite restaurant. Course after course, wine after wine, the guests shared a night they won’t likely forget anytime soon. Right down to the walnut and chocolate tarts and cappuccinos served for dessert.

Although we’ve always had Friday night weddings, it seems more and more seem to grace our calendar every day. Perhaps we have the Royal Wedding to thank for the steady rise in trend or the increase in weddings booked now that the economy has recovered. No matter the reason, we happen to love them and look forward to planning more Friday celebrations in the near future. Next up, we’ll be sharing this couple’s incredible Saturday wedding celebration at Andalusia on the Delaware! Another amazing event shot by the talented Mel Barlow.

Over the past couple years one of the biggest wedding trends has been VIBRANT COLOR. And lots of it! As event designers and wedding planners who have worked with every shade on the color wheel, well, let’s just say, it’s been quite fun to power up the pantone chart! One of our late summer weddings embraced color in a BIG way. The bride knew she wanted to incorporate color into every aspect of her wedding design and encouraged us to use every seasonal shade Mother Nature could provide. And boy-oh-boy, did we ever take her up on the challenge!  {Photos: Mel Barlow, Mel & Co.} ***Warning, mega-dose of fabulous photos is contained herein. Just couldn’t be helped!

As we shared in a previous post, the bride and groom celebrated their wedding over two days. Rather than a traditional ceremony rehearsal and rehearsal dinner, the happy couple decided to actually get married on Friday night at their family home. Then, the next day, the bride and groom shared their nuptials with 165 of their friends and families at a outdoor tented celebration at the historic Andalusia on the Delaware. First, guests were invited to enjoy the extensive 18th century gardens around the estate. No matter where they ventured, from the White Garden, to the Rose Garden, Peony Garden, Pool Terrace or the Walled Grapery, guests found stylish hors d’oeuvres and tasty cocktails from Peter Callahan Catering. A sexy, young “Sinatra-style” crooner, Doug Acosta from Elan Artists, filled the air with popular standards. Table linens, food stations, cocktail trays and lounge furniture were all dressed in the bright colors and modern, whimsical patterns of the event design. As a surprise for the guests, a civil wedding ceremony officiated by former Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell took place at the end of cocktails in the middle of the Walled Garden. From there, guests were invited to follow the bride and groom down to the water for a dinner dance under a beautiful sailcloth tent.

During cocktails, guests were encouraged to take photographs in front of colorful backdrops and seating vignettes with Instant cameras. Photos were there pinned to wires as a playful guest book keepsake.

Just some of the fabulously styled and delicious tasting “shots + bites” hors d’oeuvres from Peter Callahan. Above, Tuna Tartare and Red Wine and below, Fried Oysters and Bloody Marys.

The concept of COLOR for the wedding was intense, in every way. Right down to how the guests dressed for the wedding. To encourage guests to dress in bold, festive colors for the wedding, the couple created a lookbook of “what to wear” for each group attending the wedding: their bridal party, family members and wedding guests. All the information was shared in a stylish wedding website you can check out for inspiration. On the website, you can also peruse their fabulous engagement photos from Jose Villa styled by the equally sensational Joy Thigpen. But, we have to admit, our favorite colorful fashion element was the groom’s dapper bespoke suiting from Lord Willy’s.

Once the fabulously-attired wedding group arrived at the celebration tent, they were greeted by layer after layer of playful, stylish and approachable design. Although an evening event, it wasn’t formal in tone or uptight in attitude. Every aspect of the look of this party setting was about modernity, whimsy and warmth. Of course, the entire space was beautifully positioned along the Delaware River in incredible sailcloth tents from EventQuip. Just look at that custom-built wood plank floor! In the first tent, guests found colorful hand calligraphed place cards on tables designated for “friends,” “bridal party,” “Sam’s family,” and “Michelle’s family.”  The place cards were just one of many clever pieces in the wedding stationery designed by Leigh Wells and printed by Milkfed Press, both of San Francisco.

From the save the date to the wedding day itself, one strong design element that repeated over and over was the use of modern, mid-century inspired patterns. In paper linings, to photo backdrops, table linens, pillows, signage and placemats.  A wide brush stroke of rich, weathered wood was used as a grounding foundation to the event design, from the floor to the tables to the chairs, stage, bars and food stations. Then, we added color including tangerine, cerise, turquoise, ruby, gold, chartreuse, yellow, hot pink, lavender, purple, magenta and goodness, so many more! All centerpieces were loosely gathered in low modern glass, chrome or wood vessels. Glass hurricanes and votives mixed with brushed bronze candle holders and stemware from Peter Callahan was low and whisper-thin.

Each of the long “farm-style” wooden tables had personal place settings denoted with colorfully-patterned paper place mats, napkins and letterpressed menus.

Mother Nature really gave us her all for this September wedding. Just look at the hot pink hydrangea, orange gerbera, yellow marigolds, lime green coxcomb, purple zinnias and crimson dahlias! Not to mention the tulips, orchids, marigolds, mums, protea, nerine and who knows what else we managed to find in all the saturated colors we needed for the wedding flowers!

Just outside of the tent and placed along the river, was an open-air lounge where guests could pop out for breeze or a private moment. Later in the night, the seating area became the ideal location to watch the firework show over the river!

Throughout the night guests were plied with seasonal food and drink from Peter Callahan. Rather than a seated dinner with plated courses, the couple chose tasting plates offered on multiple food stations placed around the tent. The “courses” on the stations changed four times during the night and alternated with passed small plates and rolling carts of additional savories. The food flights included a Sangria Salad Station paired with a delicious rioja wine and a Wild Mushroom Tart. On all of the food stations Evantine’s Creative Director, Brian Kappra, added huge glass vases of flowering forsythia! Something you don’t usually see in September.

Throughout the night, guests could grab a camera and snap a mini “polaroid” photo for the bride and groom’s collection. Or, as you can see below, they could enjoy cocktails and chatter in the comfortable lounge area.

The talented artists at The Papery created multiple bar menus on large antique chalkboards that shared the clients’ witty commentary on their favorite beverages. As with any Evantine Design event, no detail falls under the radar! We brought in our custom-built mahogany bars and added some colorful patterns to the back bar shelving displays of candles.

Although the abundant display of mini desserts, like these mini s’mores, was incredible, the grand finale of fireworks was truly spectacular!

{Photos: Mel Barlow}

After {gasp} thirty-some years producing weddings we still LOVE what we do and look forward to the next thirty-some years to come! One of the main reasons we continue to find the passion to plan and design events every day, is for the soul-warming reward we receive when we’ve brought joy to our clients. That joy, in turn, gets showered back on us when Monday morning comes. After a busy weekend of events, we usually power up the computers to find lovely thank you notes from the celebrations we’ve decorated just hours before. And, in many cases, the notes keep coming long after the party has ended. We were blessed to receive the following thank you note just this past Monday, on the one year anniversary of one of our September 3, 2011 bridal couples. It beautifully captured why we do what we do here at Evantine, that we just had to share it…

Dear Brian & the amazingly gifted Evantine Team,

This weekend marks one year of marriage for my husband and I, and as I am looking back on photos of the day we became husband and wife, I just had to write to tell you…

You made our wedding day beautiful! It was everything I never knew I ever wanted! In other words, you somehow saw into my mind and knew what I would love! I remember looking back and walking into our church the eve of our wedding and seeing it absolutely transformed with these incredible trees lining the aisle… it was lovely, romantic and literally took my breath away.

Fast forward to the day of the wedding… Seeing nine unique, yet perfectly complimenting bouquets ushered into the foyer was such a fun part of the day! Photos captured it perfectly… my mouth was wide open in awe of what you had created! My bouquet was the most beautiful bouquet I had ever seen… It was more than I could have dreamed up or imagined.. and like nothing I had seen before! I loved holding it!! and I LOVE looking at it in pictures.

As for the way you designed The Cairnwood Estate… oh my word, what can I say… I am running out of adjectives to describe the work you do.

The flowers… all the candles… those antique lace linens!! … it was so clear that so much time and care was taken in making sure every little part of the Estate was made beautiful. At one point in the beginning of the evening, I saw Brian sitting off to the side looking on and just smiling. It’s like his joy was found in bringing others joy. Brian, thank you!! Coming to your amazing studio was truly one of the best parts of planning our wedding. I left feeling inspired to just create beautiful spaces wherever I am…

You were a JOY to work with. I thank God as I think of the gift He has given you… Thanks for not letting your talent go to waste! I am confident that I am amongst countless other brides and guests at your events who have been greatly blessed to experience your gift. I truly feel humbled that our wedding day was designed by you!

With very thankful hearts, Jenna & Steven

{Photos: Joe Craig}

A true love story dating back to when the bride and groom attended Pine Forest Camp as campers themselves, then as camp counselors and administrators. They even shared their first kiss under the Friendship Tree. Their charming country wedding took place at the end of summer, when the last of the young campers had headed home, the football fields were quiet and the wild flowers were at their peak. Owned by the bride’s parents, Pine Forest Camp is a coed sleepaway camp with a sprawling compound that supports sports, arts, theater, cooking, horseback riding and more. Truly, the camp is a labor of love for this family and choosing a location for their daughter’s wedding was a no-brainer. It could only happen at camp! The 400 wedding guests were invited to their own “mini wedding camp” weekend packed full of activities, such as a welcome luau, aerobics classes, flag football, fishing, tented barbecue rehearsal dinner, fireworks, bonfires, lunches in the dining hall and horseback riding. In addition to the camp cabins, every hotel, motel, and bed and breakfast for miles was filled with guests. It was a warm, inviting and playful wedding celebration that made everyone feel like part of the family.

{Photos: Love Shack Photo}

The bride had a clear vision of her wedding from the beginning, wanting an organic, natural elegance that felt “traditional wedding” without stuffy formality. The idea was to reference the beautiful natural landscape, rather than work against it. Our mission was clear, and tones of taupe, ivory, blush, green and white were layered through linens, flowers and lighting for a soft, heirloom aesthetic. The personal flowers embodied the design as well, beginning with the bride’s hand-tied bouquet of garden roses, lady’s mantle, arabicum, lily of the valley, ranunculus, stock, scented geranium and snowberries.

The bridesmaids were dressed in fawn dresses and rather than bouquets, each attendant was given a floral bracelet. Each bracelet was designed differently using flowers such as helleborus, lotus pods, orchids, nigella, lysamachia, viburnum berry, hydrangea, china berry, rose hips, roses, fiddle head ferns and sedum.  Only the maid of honor carried a bouquet and it was a stunner made with textural flowers like antique hydrangea, hosta leaves, fiddle head ferns, scented geranium, spray roses, scabiosa and stock.

Despite a devastating summer storm that destroyed half of the Friendship Tree, the bride and groom were determined to hold their traditional Jewish wedding ceremony under the sentimental tree. In fact, they had a local artist design their Chuppah, Ketubah easel and ceremonial table out of the broken pieces of the tree. We then went to work, creating a base for the poles to appear “planted” with a natural design of flowers and foliage hiding the mechanics, as well as visually anchoring the posts to the ground. Long 20 foot garlands of white flowers were suspended from the Friendship Tree behind and over the ceremony Chuppah. The bride’s mother collected vintage handkerchiefs that were offered to guests on a simple wooden table along with suede yarmulkes and ceremony programs.

After the ceremony, while the bride and groom returned to the Guest House for their Yicchud, their guests headed down to the Girls Camp for an open-air cocktail reception. A folk music group provided lively background music while guests enjoyed seasonal fare from Max Hansen Caterer, including stylish passed hors d’oeuvres and an elaborate Tomato Station. We covered our custom-built 18 foot whitewashed table with various bowls, trestles and vases filled fresh flowers and vibrant produce. Additional tasty food stations and full-service bars were placed around the lawn for guests to sample until sundown.

Throughout the cocktail space we dressed the cocktail tables, bars and stations with mis-matched rustic tins and jars filled with textural floral arrangements. Ornamental cabbage, viburnum berry, rose hips, hydrangea, stock, hosta leaves and roses in different soft shades added subtle coloring to the natural setting.

Together with their entire bridal party, the bride and groom took photos all over the camp grounds including the playhouse.

As guests made their way from cocktails up to the Dining Hall, they first stopped at the place card table to find their seating assignments. We created a 24 foot display using rustic wooden tables covered with moss, rocks, lanterns, branches, bird’s nests, candles and landscape foliage.  Nestled in and around the moss and flowers were hand calligraphed place card stones.

The existing camp Dining Hall was the ideal location for the dinner dance celebration. Not only did it have the space needed, but it was also weather-proof and conveniently located next to a large commercial kitchen. The dinner tables were designed using rectangular tables covered in a variety of natural fabrics in ivory, champagne and taupe. The existing ladderback chairs were perfect and added another layer of country chic to the look. The floral centerpieces were also varied across the tables in depression glass, ceramic, silver, iron and tin vessels. Flowers such as amaryllis, astilbe, fiddle head fern, garden roses, helleborus, hydrangea, ranuculus, hyacinth, lysimachia, lotus Pods, queen anne’s lace, rose hips, nigella, orchids, phlox, stock, china berry, viburnum and viburnum berry, ladies mantle, mountain mint, rosemary, scented geranium, bush ivy, privet berries, scabiosa, sedum, freesia, lilies, and other landscape materials like dusty miller were used. Heck, we even used whole seckel pears and lady’s apples in some of the designs!

One of the biggest design challenges in the space was what to do with the industrial lighting fixtures across the ceiling. Unable to get them totally removed (darn it), we instead covered all 100 fixtures with stylish rice paper lanterns.

Max Hansen designed an incredible dinner, beginning with a trio of sweet pea soup with preserved lemon and curry oil, a roasted beet napolean and a summer ratatouille with sungold cherry tomato coulis. The entree was a tableside choice of braised beef short ribs or halibut served with sweet pepper jam and lemon aleppo oil. A whole host of seasonal vegetables accompanied the meal, like Blue Lake beans, snap peas, cranberry beans and mashed Yukon Gold potatoes. Delicious!

The Sid Miller Dance Band had the dance floor PACKED all evening, beginning with the Hora. So packed that it was impossible to get the wedding cake rolled onto the center of the dance floor!

A ton of dessert was served throughout the evening, beginning with alternating plated desserts of dark chocolate pudding and caramelized apple tarts. Then, out came the large Sweets Tables all around the Dining Hall laden with croquembouches, chocolates, cakes, pies and fresh fruit. THEN, the wedding cake was served. This lovely three-tier carrot cake was created by both Lynn Morrow, who baked the cakes, and Sheelah at Torte Knox, who decorated the cake with elegant string work. The whimsical topper was provided by the bride and groom (of course!).

Even after the band stopped playing, and the bonfire went out on the terrace, the bride and groom still managed to find the time for one last memorable photo. That is, until the morning, when brunch began… then the baseball game…

A special, heartfelt word of thanks to Love Shack Photo for these amazing photographs! Thank you for sharing them with us.

Classic, elegant and timeless, this South Jersey wedding was lovely from start to finish. After a traditional Catholic church ceremony in one of the most beautiful churches we’ve ever seen, wedding guests were invited to celebrate the nuptials in a beautifully decorated pole tent at the Moorestown Golf Club. As one would think, golf carts were involved in the festivities, as well as a family dinner, a lush wine station and a cake cutting set against a dramatic fireworks display. It was quite simply a spectacular celebration!

{Photos: Peter Van Beever}

Above, a lovely moment shared between the bride, her bridesmaids and the bride’s mother during the bridal preparations. The bride’s frothy, strapless Ann Barge wedding gown was secured with a warm mocha sash that was also reflected in her elegant Manolo Blahnik sandals. {shown below}

The bridesmaids were dressed in deep plum Lazaro taffeta gowns and carried floral bouquets composed of white and soft green Hydrangea, Lady’s Mantle, Sage and China Berry.  The bride carried a softly cascading bouquet of white Phalaenopsis Orchids.

The groom and his groomsmen were elegantly attired in classic black tuxedos; all wearing tuxedos, ties and shirts they already had in their closets. Of course, the groom needed a little something personal for his cuff-links; hence, the red guitar cuff-links gifted to him by his bride.

The stunning church really needed very little adornment as it was light and bright, with colorful stained glass windows and a painted blue ceiling. Dramatic! We simply added touches of white and ivory flowers in two large altar displays, as well as in simple hand-tied pew arrangements down the center aisle. We used seasonal flowers such as white Hydrangea, Casa Blanca Lilies, Roses, Astilbe, Lisianthus and Dusty Miller throughout the church arrangements.

After the ceremony, the weddings guests gave the bride and groom a big sendoff from the church steps. Even the groom’s classic Fiat needed a little nuptial decor; hence, our small “Just Married!” sign which we attached with plenty of colorful trailing streamers and noise makers. {The bride also earned bonus points for her willingness to squeeze her gown into the petite car!}

Once at the Moorsetown Golf Club, the bride and groom dashed hither and yon for their bridal party photos on the beautiful, lush green grounds of the club. As you can see, sometimes, it’s the candid shots that carry the day!

Guests were invited to enjoy cocktails alfresco on the lawn, and, thankfully, the gorgeous sunny September weather continued without a hitch for the dinner dance under the big tent!

Our friends at EventQuip provided the white pole tent, lay down floor and kitchen tent for the dinner dance celebration. Our floor plan included square dinner tables for the guests and a long rectangular community table for the table of honor. All the tables were placed around the centrally-located polished wood dance floor and bandstand. Additionally, as we like to incorporate service elements into the event design rather than seeing service tables dotted around the perimeter of the tent, we created two floating service stations that held large arrangements of branches and flowers. These two large displays took advantage of the tall ceiling the tent provided and were stunning focal points throughout the evening.

We dressed the dinner tables in crisp white linens and napkins, added glass beaded chargers, classic stemware and white chivari reception chairs for a fresh, monochromatic palette.

Centerpieces were designed in a variety of low vessels that included classic bowls and compotes in traditional silver and glass. Each vessel was filled with beautiful late summer blooms such as Hydrangea, Orchids, Arabicum, Lilies, Dahlias, Amaryllis, Lysimachia, Lisianthus, miniature Calla Lilies, French Stock and Garden Roses. The color scheme of the flowers used in the arrangements was predominantly white, with touches of soft green, lavender, plum and French blue. The centerpiece designs were also kept low and lush to keep the guest chatter unobstructed across the dinner tables.

A variety of candles were used on the dinner tables, but as you should always do in outdoor event spaces, all candles were enclosed in glass to protect them from wind. For this classic design we used glass hurricanes, globe votive holders and polished silver pedestals.

Lighting is KEY for any event, most particularly tented events. For that soft, romantic glow every bridal couple craves, we provided lighting that included pin spots on each of the table centerpieces and on the large floral arrangements displayed on the two service tables. The dance floor was treated with dappled lighting in flattering hues of soft blush, and warm lighting was projected onto the band stand.

The low floral arrangements on the bride and groom’s table of honor allowed the photographer, Peter van Beever, the opportunity to catch easy candid photos of sweet moments and stolen kisses.

We also installed up-lighting on the trees surrounding the wedding tent as well ason the golf club’s outdoor deck area which provided ambient, decorative lighting through the entire event space and surrounding landscaping.

And then, there was the cake cutting under the stars, surrounded by their friends and family… lovely indeed!

Weddings are rather like theatrical productions, with variations only in the pieces being performed and the personality of those carefully cast.

Some wedding ceremonies we produce are alternative, modern and downright edgy. Others are traditional, classic and grandiose in scheme. And then there are the wedding designs that fall beautifully in between, like this one we created for a Jewish wedding at the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia. Beginning with the softly draped ceremonial Chupah, the all white wedding was an elegant blend of lush traditional and updated contemporary elements that in the end made it truly magical.

In keeping with the modern, clean design aesthetic of our stylish bride and groom, we created a streamlined red wedding celebration for them at The Rittenhouse Hotel.

The day began as most weddings do, with careful preparations, joyful chatter and plenty of laughter. The wedding ceremony took place just around the corner from the hotel at historic Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church where our dramatic red rose spheres dressed up the altar. After the ceremony, guests were invited to The Rittenhouse for cocktails in the Cassatt Lounge followed by a festive dinner dance in the Grand Ballroom. For the sleek, minimalist design, we replaced the round hotel tables with rectangular tables dressed with rich taupe linens.  We designed a variety of beautiful, contemporary table centerpieces that were placed symmetrically in the room for balance. All of the table designs were composed of fabulous red flowers, using primarily one flower in each vessel. Blooms such as roses, tulips, ginger, miniature calla lilies, orchids and dahlias were placed in square zinc or rectangular glass vessels.  Layered with floating candles on every table and dramatic event lighting throughout the ballroom, it was truly a night to remember.  {Gorgeous photos by Cliff Mautner}

When it comes to grand ballrooms in Philadelphia, there are many fabulous locations to choose from when an urban wedding venue is a planning must. But there really is only one ballroom that has the classic Old World elegance that every bride and groom craves. The Hyatt at The Bellevue. Situated on the famous Avenue of the Arts in the heart of Philadelphia, the Hyatt at The Bellevue blends historic architecture with modern amenities. It’s two story ballroom, with its ornate ceiling, built in stage and enormous dance floor, is a stunning venue for a wedding celebration. As you can see from these gorgeous images from wedding photographer Alison Conklin, the traditional grandeur of the ballroom was the perfect setting for our clients’ classic white wedding. As both their wedding planner and event designer, we were able to weave the bride and groom’s vision through every luxurious detail… the joy and emotion of the day was infectious!

{EVENT VITALS: Wedding Gown Monique Lhuillier; Bridesmaids Gowns Monique Lhuillier; Groom’s Classic Black Tuxedo Brooks Brothers;  Invitations Ceci New York; Wedding Day-Of Stationery Two Paperdolls; Photographer Alison Conklin; Videographer Video One; Cake Cake Art Studio; Church Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul}

As we work on a Summertime garden party, it’s not a surprise that butterflies, hummingbirds and dragonflies would come to mind for all the design details. Yes, like everyone else still buried under the blanket of Winter, we’re craving warm weather, lush gardenscapes and the beauty of nature. Our craving led us back to a lovely garden wedding we planned in New Jersey which incorporated butterflies, hummingbirds and dragonflies into the design. In addition to the beautiful custom save the dates and wedding invitations, the talented Heather Arak of Arak Kanofsky Studios designed hand-painted place cards that attached into the client’s hydrangea trees for guests to grab during cocktails. Absolutely, one of our favorite details! {particularly when we saw many ladies wearing them in their hair during the evening}

{Photos by Rachel McGinn}

For event designers and party planners, the world of events is tremendously exciting because designing rooms and spaces is a process of starting afresh, taking risks, and giving shape to the imagination. Working within the constraints of budget and the client’s taste is expected, but as far as color selection, most event designers draw on a kaleidoscope of options. Yet, sometimes living on the color wheel is overwhelming.

We have found that paring down a party’s color scheme to black and white can tone down that pressure, yielding a tremendously powerful, eye-catching result. In all its simplicity, black and white décor is at once modern and classic, dramatic and understated, as it is timeless and elegant.  In other words, it’s a sure thing.

No matter how you position them,  black and white will evoke a sense of romance and style that transcends time.  We have only to look to classic black and white films or photographs to know that time goes by in color, but we remember it in black and white.

{Photo Credis from top to bottom: Gown by Jean Louis Scherrer; Cake by Faye Cahill; Chuppah by Evantine Design, Photo by Cliff Mautner; Sheath Dress by Reem Acra; Photo of White Anemones in Black Vase by Kira Brandt; Black and White Wedding Gown by Vera Wang; Wedding Decor with Grand Piano by Evantine Design, Photo by Susan Beard; Beaded Evening Clutch by Oscar de la Renta; White Stephanotis Boutonniere by Evantine Design, Photo by Ash Imagery; Shoes by Balenciaga; Ballroom Decor by Evantine Design, Photo by Cliff Mautner; Black-and-white stripe round tray by French Bull; Cocktail-napkin tray by Jaye’s Studio; Melons sugar bowl by Josef Hoffmann from Neue Galerie Design Shop; Stripe salt and pepper shakers by Jonathan Adler; Awnings cup and saucer by Marc Blackwell-New York; Background of Cannes stripe cotton fabric by Ralph Lauren Home; Black and White Check Gown with Black Gloves by Pierre Balmain 1954; Polka Dot Table Settings by Evantine Design, Photo by Paul Loftland; Black and White Wedding Gown with Black Gloves by Vera Wang; Black Lace and White Wedding Gown by Atelier Aimee; Black Lace and White Wedding Cake by The Cake Girls.}

Some days we have patience, many others we do not. Today was one of the latter. We simply could not wait to share these stunning images from Cliff Mautner and Susan Stripling’s recent wedding as captured by their friend and professional photographer, Daniel Kudish.

As two of the best photographers in the event industry themselves, we knew Cliff and Susan would have an army of incredible photographers on hand to shoot their Spring wedding. And they did. Believe it or not, Daniel Kudish was actually the second shooter for the event, working alongside the lead photographer Mary Beth Tyson. {You can view Mary’s gorgeous images of the wedding here.}

Both of these tremendously talented wedding photographers brought their own artistic perspective to the day in a manner that every bride and groom should experience. Frankly, just having Mary Beth Tyson alone or Daniel Kudish as the lead would be a dream come true. But to have their collective views capture the wedding day in such emotional detail is something to cherish. As the event designers for the wedding, we were truly amazed by how Daniel captured the warmth and intimacy of the wedding ceremony, the rich, golden light of the candles on the dinner tables, and, of course, the ethereal cloud of Susan’s bridal veil. Simply magical.

{Photos by Daniel Kudish of Davina Plus David, Montreal, Canada}

{CREDITS AND EVENT PARTNERS: Lead Photographer: Mary Beth Tyson Photography; Second Photographer and Artist who captured these stunning images DavinaplusDaniel; Venue: Front & Palmer; Event Designer: Evantine Design; Catering: Feast Your Eyes; Lighting and Sound: Eventions Productions; Bride’s Dress: Monique Lhuillier; Calligraphy: Everly Calligraphy; Cinematographer: Ray Roman Films; Invitations & Stationery: Two Paper Dolls; Band: Carnivale}

When it comes to sensational, statement-making wedding venues in Philadelphia, the newly renovated Dorrance H. Hamilton Garden at the Kimmel Center is an absolute WINNER. Located just five blocks south of historic City Hall, the Kimmel Center takes up an entire city block and is comprised of two theaters, Verizon Hall and Perelman Theater. Both theaters are completely encapsulated by a giant glass enclosure that leaves light and airy indoor plazas, terraces and spaces for the city’s most fabulous events. But it’s the Hamilton Garden perched high atop the Perelman Theater that is just PERFECT for today’s sophisticated urban weddings.

{Photos courtesy of Sweetwater Portraits by Julie Melton}

The Hamilton Garden is a modern, rooftop terrace that once could only host weddings during cooler months. But now, the fully-enclosed and blissfully air-conditioned space is able to host weddings year-round in comfort and style.  To be fair, we have loved the rooftop garden for years and despite the former heat issue, we have designed many dramatic events in the space over the years, beginning with the grand opening celebration when we were setting up tables while construction workers were still building the place around us!  But now, with its stunning improvements, we love the Hamilton Garden even more! Right down to the sexy, delicious food catered by Garces Catering, the catering division from Iron Chef and celebrated restauranteur Jose Garces.

As you can see from these images from our clients’ wedding,  this savvy bridal couple managed to blend the best of Philadelphia  tradition with the contemporary chic of the Kimmel Center.

{Photos by Sweetwater Portraits by Julie Melton}

“Fireworks are an art form that uses the night sky as the canvas.” Larry Crump.

Like most people around the world, we’re fascinated by the spectacle of fireworks.  Perhaps it’s their mystic allure of bright lights and big bangs in the dark night; all we know is fireworks transport us to a place of celebration.  Young and old, it doesn’t matter, we’re all brought together under the spectacular displays of falling stars.

Fireworks date back to 7th Century China, where people believed that fire could disperse evil spirits. Sparks were a good omen, sound could frighten ghosts, and smoke could create a healthy atmosphere. In modern China, much like their ancestors, people set off fireworks to express their happiness, to pray for peace and invite good luck during community festivals.

Here in America, the very first celebration of Independence Day was in 1777 and fireworks were a major part of the celebration. This early fascination with their noise and color continues today as the American fireworks industry is now a billion-dollar-a-year business.  Most of which focuses on Fourth of July celebrations, followed by New Year’s Eve and Memorial Day.  However, more and more private events are using dramatic fireworks displays to mark momentous lifetime occasions.  As the perfect finale to their perfect day, we love when brides and grooms incorporate a fireworks show into their wedding.  Hearts race with excitement as the night sky literally lights up right before your eyes.

We wish our family, friends and colleagues a very Happy Fourth of July!

{Photo:  Philippe Cheng, Fireworks:  Firework Concepts}

We’re thrilled to see the wedding of Cliff Mautner and Susan Stripling featured on Junebug Weddings today. We particularly love what Susan had to say about the event design…

“I’ve had 12 years of watching other people design their weddings and I knew very clearly what I wanted to do, and Cliff felt the same. Along with Brian Kappra of Evantine Design we chose the clear ghost chairs and long farm tables. I provided an image of what we wanted the chuppah to look like. And other than that? It was all Evantine. We spent a few hours with Brian choosing the china and I hired a calligrapher to do the place settings but otherwise the execution of the vision was all him. I think the only direction we gave him was really “a lot of fire and we don’t really like flowers.” Simple, clean, dramatic, and nary a mason jar in sight.”  ~ Susan Stripling

Oh, Susan. You KNOW how we feel about mason jars! To read more about their wedding, hop on over to the always delightful Junebug Weddings.

You can view more images from Cliff and Susan’s incredible wedding HERE.

{Photo courtesy of Daniel Kudash of Davina + David}

As most of us event professionals know, today’s brides and grooms are inundated with wedding planning books, magazines, apps and videos, as well as an endless supply of photos and images on the web.

With all that inspiration thrown at them, how delighted were we when this hip bridal couple walked into our design studio with just a couple photos to share? Particularly when they are photos of our work!?  We LOVED IT, of course, and when they also uttered those amazing little words “take this and run with it, we trust you” we knew we were blessed with another true Evantine client. Nothing inspires us more than a client who not only appreciates what we do but also trusts us to create something perfect just for them. Leigh and Marc gave us that gift and it’s hard to believe it has been a whole year since their light and dreamy hotel wedding at the Loews Philadelphia.

{Photos courtesy of Michael Zorn}

Before we dive deeper into the event design aspects of Leigh and Marc’s glamorous wedding, we must first touch on their elegant attire!  Beginning with Leigh’s Monique Lhuillier ”Candy” bridal gown with its embroidery and light- as-air tulle skirt. Of course there was plenty of feminine sparkle on her feet too with her open-toed Jimmy Choo platform sandals! Her bridal suite was filled with laughter and emotion throughout the day, right up until she stepped outside for her romantic “first look” with her handsome waiting groom. Marc chose to wear a dark tuxedo for the formal photographs and ceremony, but then later changed into a summer white jacket for the celebration.

Their photographer, Michael Zorn, used the shooting time wisely, getting romantic and bridal party photos of the bridal couple all over historic Society Hill, Old City, City Hall and Independence Square before heading back to the Loews Philadelphia for family photographs in the air-conditioned hotel. Michael must have loved shooting Leigh and Marc as they really let their emotions and playfulness show in all the images.

Of all the possible locations in Center City Philadelphia, the bride and groom chose the Loews Philadelphia Hotel for its art deco architecture and grand, modern spaces. Once Leigh saw the ballroom at the Loews, she knew it was the one! Since the Loews has such high, dramatic ceilings, we knew we needed to create a setting with the right visual impact. Basically, go big or go home.

Starting with the ceremony, which would take place in the Millennium Ballroom at the hotel, we designed the space to take advantage of the beautiful marble wall.  In front of the wall we placed our custom-designed 15 foot white square Chuppah, with soft swags of white gossamer fabric draped cleanly on crisp white poles. A mixture of clear lucite reception and glossy white dining chairs were placed in neat arcing rows on opposite sides of an extra wide ceremony aisle. The aisle itself was dressed with a white linen aisle runner that was framed by two large arrangements of fragrant white Lilies, Orchids, Roses and Hydrangea that we placed on tall clear pedestals. The entire room and ceiling was awash in blue lighting, all except for the aisle and stage, which were lit in soft candlelight tones.

Our 16 foot placecard table would serve two purposes throughout the wedding day. First, as a dramatic floral and candlelit display to flank the draped entrance to the aisle that we created to give the bride and her bridal party a magical ceremony entrance. Then, after the ceremony, we created one long table that floated in the space, and which offered guests traditional calligraphed place cards with their seating assignments. {see below}

Of course, as you can see, white Phalaenopsis orchids were a MUST for our sophisticated bride! Even her bridal bouquet contained the gorgeous tropical blooms and were mixed with Ranunculus, Mini Calla Lilies and Stephanotis. We even added a little extra sparkle to the Stephanotis blooms!  The bridesmaids’ bouquets were designed in deep pinks, raspberries and purples, and those same rich tones were used here and there throughout the floral centerpieces in the party room as well.

After the ceremony, while guests were enjoying delicious cocktails and hors d’oeuvres overlooking the Philadelphia skyline on the 33rd Floor of the hotel, we removed the ceremony draping and re-set the ballroom into a stunning dinner dance celebration. By placing the band on the window wall  to the left upon entering the Millennium Ballroom, we were able to design the space in a style not often used at the hotel.  We created a chic lounge area at the back of the room and draped off the glossy black marble columns to make it more intimate.  This glamorous room had everything, from different sized dinner tables and sparkling table cloths, to lush floral arrangements, romantic candelabra, floating candles, crystal accessories, and tall modern crystal tower centerpieces. All set against the stunning blue and purple lighting!

The bride and groom loved the idea of a sweetheart table facing the band and dance floor, including a white love seat just for the two of them!

The dinner tables were dressed in layers of crystals, candles, silver accessories and shining details — all better to reflect all the lovely blue lighting we added to the space. The whites, silvers and clear glass details let the light shimmer through everything in magical ways!  A truly light and dreamy wedding…

For some clients, we create their bridal bouquet combining 7-9 different types of blooms together for a stunning textural effect with plenty of drama. But for far more of our clients, we seem to stick to using 3-4 flowers that blend together simply and beautifully into an artful floral accessory. After all, why over-complicate the glory of Mother Nature?

For instance, for a lovely bride hosting her wedding at The Westin Philadelphia, we created a hand-tied bouquet of just three beloved wedding flowers all in the same creamy white hue: Vendela Roses, Ranunculus and Dendrobium Orchids.

Simple. Elegant. Traditional. Perfection. What more do you need?

{Photo courtesy of Gabe Fredericks of Philip Gabriel Photography}

In this month’s Aisle Style in Philadelphia Style Magazine, Brian Kappra shares his thoughts on why historic Philadelphia venues for weddings are at the forefront of today’s sophisticated wedding market. “Riverfront ceremonies, brick patio cocktail hours, and intimate interiors fulfill the desires of discerning couples looking for the utmost in romantic country settings.”

In the article, Brian also suggests when selecting an old property or country building for your wedding that it’s “best to choose decor that complements the space rather than fights it.” Chances are, the whole reason the vintage venue has been chosen is because of the wonderful architecture, country quirks and whimsical details one cannot find in a hotel ballroom or country club setting.

Take a look at the full article above for additional tips from Brian…

SEPTEMBER WEDDINGS always seem to get the best of the summer blooms! Flowers that have warmed in the late summer sun, either intensifying in tone or fading into soft romantic shades that many brides adore.

This floral arrangement is just one of the many decorative displays we designed for a large tented wedding in the Philadelphia suburbs. As you can see, it was all about hydrangea, lilies, roses, berries and branches. It made quite a statement in the entrance tent!

{Photo courtesy of Liz Banfield Photography, Inc.}

Believe it or not, this lovely bride was actually a repeat client! Years ago, Event Designer Arlene Bluestein designed the bride’s bat mitzvah celebration. Arlene also designed the bride’s sister’s bat mitzvah, as well as her wedding too! Needless-to-say, this family knows that whatever celebration they have on the calendar they can turn to Arlene to bring their dreams to life. In this case, in technicolor.

{Photos courtesy of Love Shack Photo}

When it comes to designing weddings and events, we really want to create a unique experience that reflects our clients’ passions and personalities. For this festive celebration, Arlene could draw on the couple’s playfulness and joie de vivre. Choosing the Please Touch Museum as the venue for their wedding was the perfect start to building this happy party, particularly when Arlene discovered that the bride is the Coordinator of Family Gallery Learning at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the groom, a Wharton School MBA, was Captain of Penn’s Ultimate Frisbee team and now plays on Philadelphia’s competitive team.

As for the event design itself, from the beginning the bride envisioned a “rainbow” of color that included her bridesmaids dresses, stationery suite and event decor. Even her Kate Spade shoes were multi-hued!  Enchanting, eclectic, whimsical, romantic — it all would intertwine in an explosion of color!  Of course, when Arlene discovered that the bride and groom had registered at MacKenzie-Childs, the party inspiration was complete. Color, wit and whimsy were the name of the game!

The bride wore an absolutely gorgeous Monique Lhuillier lace wedding gown and carried a loosely gathered bouquet of bright blooms. Flowers in every color of the rainbow were used, such as: peonies, hydrangea, roses, clematis, ranunculus, orchids, and stephanotis.

The Please Touch Museum is one big soundstage of delightful backdrops that let the couple’s photographers from Love Shack Photo get some incredible images! From stolen romantic photos in dimly lit settings to playful laughter in childlike playhouses. Just a couple of our favorites…

The traditional Jewish Chuppah was a gorgeous floral rainbow of blooms set alongside the beautifully restored 1908 Woodside Park Carousel. Yet, this type of lush decorative display doesn’t normally go up quickly! It takes a few hours ordinarily but working in a public facility like the Please Touch Museum doesn’t afford us that luxury! Since the museum closes at at 5:00pm and the wedding ceremony was scheduled for 6:30pm, we only had an hour to make this dream ceremony setting come to life. As fate would have it, the actual Carousel was not working that day and with a full team of Evantine floral designers on hand, we were able to create the Chuppah in time. Right down to each hanging crystal strand…

Guests were invited to wander through the fun exhibits, sipping colorful specialty cocktails and nibbling delicious hors d’oeuvres provided by Brulee Catering. Touching back to the party location, family and friends were encouraged to leave their best wishes for the bride and groom using crayons on brightly-colored cards that can be read through the years.

Pulling all the color together into the wedding reception meant embracing COLOR in every way! Starting with the fabrics chosen for the dinner table, every single detail has to tell the whimsical tale. Six different gorgeous colors were chosen for the tablecloths to serve as the base to which breathtaking, colorful, embroidered lace overlays were added to bring in the romance of the occasion. Linens and chairs cushions in fuschia, azure,  sunshine, coral, citron, and lavender were the six base colors with lace overlays in eggplant, aqua, orange, red and jade. Napkins, flower patterned charger plates, black and white check lampshades and accessories, as well as sharp white modern vases all came together for a playful vibe.

Then came the layers of light! Hamilton Hall, with it’s classic Beaux-Arts architecture, soaring 60-foot ceilings and majestic dome, is candyland for lighting effects.

A variety of gorgeous flower arrangements were displayed in wonderful ways, from towering displays of flowering cherry branches right down glass apothecary jars filled with orchids. Textural floral arrangements were designed using seasonal, local and imported flowers from around the globe, such as tulips, hyacinth, roses, clematis, coxcomb, hydrangea, viburnum, ranunculus, and orchids.

And, nothing brings energy and playful to a wedding better than the adventurous bride and groom themselves. The rockin’ music of Eddie Bruce took the energy up yet another notch, but these two beautiful humans were the heart and soul of the event. To watch them enjoy every single moment with childish enthusiasm was something to behold. Chairs lifted safely in the Hora, a boisterous mezinke paid a last honor to the parents and dancing continued long into the night…

The delicious white wedding cake was from the award-winning Isgro Paticceria, a South Philadelphia tradition since 1904 and a beloved family favorite. We simply added more of those colorful flowers to bring it into the look of the whole event.  Guests departed the wedding with mini frisbees and mini boxes of crayons…

{All these wonderful photos are from the talented duo at Love Shack Photo}

Last year we designed this centerpiece of muted autumnal tones for Philadelphia Wedding Magazine.

Glittering golds and champagnes all blended together with ‘Vendela’ roses, mimosa, phalaenopsis orchids and cream ‘Gracia’ spray roses. {Gold-leaf cachepot, antique candle stands, woven gold-sequined tablecloth, gold-rimmed stemware and gold flatware and chargers, all provided by Evantine.} 

{Photo courtesy of Brett Thomas for Philadelphia Wedding}