It’s only chilly November and we’re already craving warmer temperatures and outdoor weddings. Earlier this season we were thrilled to design a lovely garden-inspired ceremony chuppah for clients getting married at the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia. Having planned and designed hundreds, if not thousands, of events at this gorgeous hotel, we can’t say enough about the beautiful setting and exceptional service. We just wish we didn’t have to stop working outside!

All that’s left for us to do is layer our floral designs and event styling onto the setting and another wedding environment is ready to serve as an unforgettable backdrop.

{Photo courtesy of Fred Marcus Photography}

As we enjoy another holiday season, we just couldn’t help looking back to this glittering New Years Eve wedding at The Rittenhouse in Philadelphia!  This stunning celebration was all about sparkle, shimmer and shine!

{Photos:  Tyler Boye}

Brian Kappra designed a stunning hand-tied bouquet for the bride composed of delicate textures and soft fragrance.  The traditional wedding flowers, Stephanotis and Lily of the Valley, were combined with white Akito Roses and Gardenias. The stems of the bouquet were wrapped in silk organdy ribbon and detailed with tiny vintage crystal pins. Little crystals were also added into the heart of the star-shaped Stephanotis blossoms.  Just enough twinkle to catch the romantic lighting in the ballroom as Jaclyn glided down the aisle!

The groom, Neville, as he waits for his bride-to-be to arrive at the Philadelphia Museum of Art for their “first look” photo session.  The day was brisk and cold but you wouldn’t know it from these two lovebirds!  Working closely with their photographer, Tyler Boye, Jaclyn and Neville spent over an hour outside in the Winter chill to get the these fantastic photographs!

As guests arrived for the ceremony they were greeted by long contemporary dark wooden and mirror-topped tables in both the Ballroom Foyer and in the back of the Grand Ballrooom.  Down the length of each of the tables was a collection of glass vases and crystal votive candles to create a beautiful initial setting upon entering the ceremony space.  Each vase was filled with fragrant white flowers such as Casablanca Lilies, Roses, Stock and Snapdragon.

The ceremony setting itself was designed simply with white gossamer drape as the backdrop, a long white line aisle runner, classic white pedestals holding blown glass and crystal lamps, and clear lucite Chivari reception chairs.  The main decor element was the ceiling treatment of dozens of suspended crystals and strung orchids that like the chandeliers, caught the light and added sparkle to the celebration.  After the ceremony, the shimmering crystals remained adding a little extra glamour over the dance floor and head table for the dinner dance.

The bridesmaids were all attired in elegant black dresses and black pashmina wraps. All gorgeous ladies themselves, their bridesmaids’ bouquets of tightly gathered miniature white Calla Lilies were a lovely accessory.  The groomsmen (photographed below in the Boathouse Row Bar in The Rittenhouse) were smartly suited out in classic black tuxedos, traditional hand-tied bow-ties, personalized cufflinks and coordinating boutonnieres.

After the ceremony, wedding guests enjoyed cocktails in the Cassatt Tea Room while the Grand Ballroom was revamped into a silver and white New Year’s wedding reception.  Soft, elegant lighting around the ballroom added warmth and romance to the space.

The round dinner tables were dressed with floor-length pleated white organdy linens, silver satin napkins, silver beaded glass chargers and clear lucite Chivari reception chairs.  On the center of each table, including the long rectangular head table seating twenty-five, we placed a variety of different centerpiece designs which incorporated beautiful glass vases of different heights and stunning collections of white flowers.  Gorgeous imported blossoms from around the globe were used, including: Amaryllis, Tulips, French Stock, Hydrangea, Dendrobium Orchids, Calla Lilies, Akita Roses, Snapdragon, Casablanca Lilies and Cape Green.

In addition to flowers on the dinner tables, candles played an important role in setting the tone for the evening.  Like the glass vases used around the room, the candles varied from table design to table design for visual interest.  Tall crystal drop taper holders were used on some tables, crystal pillar stands on other tables, and crystal lamps and votives on others.

The bride and groom take their first turn around the dance floor together. (above) Later in the evening, Jaclyn and her father share every emotion on the dance floor, from joyous laughter to bittersweet tears.  (we love Jaclyn’s feather and organza flower fascinator!)

But when it was time to ring in the New Year, EVERYONE was on the dance floor with noisemakers, clappers and champagne in hand!

Sneaking out into the night for one last photo session, the bride and groom take advantage of the sparkling holiday lights suspended from the trees in Rittenhouse Square Park.

 {This wedding was featured on Hostess with the Mostess}

These snowy days remind us of romantic, winter weddings we designed not so long ago. Like this bold and beautiful wedding at the Phoenixville Foundry in the Philadelphia suburbs.

For many, a wedding venue in the heart of Chester County is just too far out of Philadelphia to be practical. But trust us when we say, with its flexible open spaces, industrial chic design, neutral color scheme, glamorous crystal chandeliers and 60’ high ceilings, the Foundry is the ideal dramatic backdrop for today’s sophisticated brides and grooms. Built in 1882, the Phoenixville Foundry is an architecturally stunning building on the banks of the French Creek. As you can see from these photos from Brittany and Rob’s glamorous winter wedding, the industrial character of the building’s exterior is largely intact while the fully-renovated interior provides a elegant atmosphere for wedding celebrations.

{Photos courtesy of Tyler Boye}

Together with their families, the bride and groom dressed for their wedding at nearby Dolce Hotel  in Valley Forge before heading to the Phoenixville Foundry for their first look and bridal party photos. Photographer Tyler Boye captured lovely, documentary photographs of the bride and groom, their wedding attire and those magical first moments of the wedding day. The snow was just an added bonus  as it  gave the whole day an unexpected, playful air. Right down to the bride’s rubber boots under her beautiful Monique Lhuillier tulle gown.

At the hotel, the bride got her first glimpse of her pretty magenta pink bridal bouquet made entirely of Phalaenopsis orchids gathered together in a soft cascade style.

The Foundry, with its iron structures, rustic bridges, stone walls, grand staircases, gardenscapes, and natural environment, offers multiple backdrops for bridal party photographs.

The bride walked down the aisle carrying a stunning hand tied bouquet of magenta Phalaenopsis orchids and her bridesmaids carried bouquets of plum, honey, wine, and antique gold flowers. The stems of their bouquets were wrapped in taupe and plum colored ribbons to complement their latte gowns. The groom, groomsmen, fathers and grandfathers all forego wearing boutonnieres in favor of tucking a stylishly folded pocket square into their tuxedos.

]

Just before the wedding ceremony began the bride and groom were joined by their families and bridal party for a traditional Ketubah signing.

Our “George Dell” iron structure was used to design the ceremony Chuppah and was placed int he center of the room for an in-the-round Jewish wedding ceremony.  The Chuppah was topped with pillar candles, soft gathered fabric and clusters of jewel-toned flowers in tones of red, plum, magenta, purple, honey and gold. Blooms such as roses, orchids, ranunculus, and lisianthus were blended with rich magnolia greens and vines to wind down the iron poles.

Under the Chuppah we placed a small linen-covered table to hold traditional ceremonial items such as Kiddush cups, Tallis, and a glass to step on. The bridal party made its way down our wide, fabric-lined aisle with towering displays of flowering Forsythia branches, loose flowers and romantic candles.

After the ceremony, guests were invited upstairs to the balcony area for delicious passed hors d’oeuvres and stylish cocktails by Stephen STARR Events before heading down to a glamorous dinner dance.

Throughout the whole wedding we layered rich jewel tones with silver accessories, crisp white furniture, shimmering fabrics, and crystal details for a glamorous mixed metal setting complete with faux mink fur throws and silk dupioni pillows. The dining room was set with a mixture of square and rectangular dinner tables, a variety of chairs and upholstered benches, high and low floral centerpieces, traditional and modern candles, and a variety of taupe and silver fabrics. Other than the metallics, the unifying element across the tables was the variety of vibrant flowers and whole fruit displayed in glass, crystal and silver vases.

On the tables, we worked with a variety of unique elements to create beautiful table designs around the room. On some tables, we places tall lamps with over-sized white linen drum shades accented with low designs of flowers. Other tables showcased tall modern glass vases holding stems of flowers such as orange tulips, garnet red lilies or yellow orchids. Some of the dinner tables had rows of Lucite candelabra alternating with low vases of peonies, roses and amaryllis flowers and silver leaf votive holders. Yet another centerpiece design included moss green hobnail votives with cymbidium orchids, French stock and roses and taller crystal hurricanes. Vintage glass compotes laden with whole winter fruits were lined up down the center of long community tables dressed with sparkling table runners.

The bride and groom’s sweetheart table was decked out in micro sequin linens, mirror and crystals and covered with silver brushed vessels filled with roses, orchids, peonies, mini calla lilies and sweet peas.

The bride and groom entered through the wall of gossamer white drape straight into their first dance and hora! The Foundry’s contemporary crystal chandeliers are gorgeous in every room shot and the soft, ambient lighting across the room gave the dark wood ballroom an intimacy hard to find in such a large space. One of Philadelphia’s most popular and beloved orchestras, Jellyroll from Brandywine Valley Talent, kept the dance floor packed all night right through the cake cutting!

{Event Partners: Bridal Gown: Monique Lhuillier; Bride’s Shoes: Christian Louboutin; Groom’s Tuxedo: Giorgio Armani; Event Designer: Evantine Design; Music: Brandywine Valley Talent and Jellyroll; Catering: Stephen STARR Events; Cake Baker: Clay’s Creative Corner Bakery; Invitations: Arlene Segal Designs; Seating Cards: The Papery; Videography: Allure Films by Video One; Photography: Tyler Boye}

Not only is Evantine’s owner and Creative Director, Brian Kappra, a Philadelphia area native, but he’s been planning events across the Northeast for over 30 years! As a result, it’s no wonder Brian is called upon by magazine editors for his insight into some of the best places to get married.  Together with other wedding experts across the nation, Brian is featured in the recent issue of BRIDES Magazine talking about the Best Wedding Venues in America.

Looking specifically at the Greater Philadelphia region, Brian loves the classic elegance of outdoor tented weddings  at Andalusia and the sexy, urban loft vibe found at Front and Palmer. Why are they high on the list? Well, there are many reasons, from the scenic views and romantic settings, to the blank slate “make it your own” qualities that both offer our brides and grooms. Take a look at just some of the fabulous weddings Brian has designed at these wedding venues:  Vibrantly Hip Outdoor Wedding at Andalusia; Lilly Pulitzer-inspired Wedding at Andalusia; and a Candlelit Wedding at Front and Palmer.

Last Fall, we designed this lush, romantic, and oh-so-glamorous wedding for Josh and Regina at the Please Touch Museum. Located in Memorial Hall, a National Historic Landmark built in 1876 for the Centennial Exhibition celebrating the country’s 100th birthday, this Grand Dame of Philadelphia party spaces is a magnificent location for a wedding celebration. Add to the already spectacular architecture some sexy black and white decor, a whole lot of purple flowers, and oodles of romance, and you have one extraordinary event. But first, let’s get the party started off with a little softer, a little muted palette…

{Photos courtesy of Drew Noel Photography}

The bride, wearing a sparkling, exquisitely detailed wedding gown by Allure Couture, carried a bouquet of white Cymbidium orchids. The stems of the bouquet were wrapped in white organza and, for a little “something old and something borrowed,” an additional piece of fabric was added from the bride’s mother’s wedding dress. Talk about a stunner! We loved that Regina wore her long blonde hair down in soft, sexy waves with a wispy, ethereal wedding veil to enhance her silhouette. What a beauty…

The Please Touch Museum offers all kinds of fun, lighthearted backdrops for bridal photos in addition to the scenic, majestic architecture everyone loves for the formals. But this Alice in Wonderland exhibit always brings a smile as who could resist hamming it up in there? And now, let’s bring on the PURPLE!

The seven bridal attendants wore sophisticated, one shoulder black bridesmaids dresses, black strappy heels, and amethyst chandelier earrings. We designed textural bouquets of purple flowers that included Vanda Orchids, Dendrobium Orchid blossoms, French Stock, Roses, Hydrangea, Mini Calla Lilies, Tulips, and Lisianthus. For a little extra touch of glam for the ladies in black, we wrapped the stems of their purple bouquets with rhinestone cuffs.

Unlike many of Philadelphia’s off-premise facilities, the Please Touch Museum offers so many lovely, well-appointed spaces for all the various aspects of a wedding celebration, from dressing and getting ready, to formal photographs indoors or out, children’s activities, or, for Jewish weddings, the Ketubah Signing. From the Ketubah Signing, our wedding planners gathered up the bridal party and family members for the ceremony processional as the guests were ready for the main event!

The South Foyer of Memorial Hall was set in a traditional theater-style with gold Chivari dinner chairs facing a solid wall of white draping hung in the three decorative arches. A long, dramatic center aisle was created by layering a wide satin aisle runner on top of a white carpet runner. Along the length of the aisle we placed our Lucite pedestals holding stemmed glass hurricanes, and at the base of the risers we placed multiple glass cylinders filled with water and candles. White organza fabric was draped in soft waves down the aisle to prevent guests from accidentally kicking any of the low candles, something that can happen very easily and that we work hard to prevent!

At the far end of the ceremony aisle we placed the large, traditional garden-style Chuppah as the central focal point in the space. Because, OF COURSE, it is the highlight of the celebration!

Our beautiful bride provided many photos of her dream wedding canopy and our tall iron Chuppah structure was just PERFECT to make that dream come true! The entire Chuppah was covered in gorgeous flowers and seasonal branches in shades of ivory, white, cream, and soft variegated shades of celadon, lavender, periwinkle, and blush. A combination of Garden Roses, French imported Roses, and Hydrangea were the main blooms used to bring that color palette to life. Below the Chuppah we placed our petite iron branch table to hold the Kiddush cup and Breaking Glass. Soft uplighting on the Chuppah itself married with delicate dappled light underneath and overtop for a romantic atmosphere.

After the ceremony, while guests were wandering through the playful museum exhibits and enjoying delicious food from Brûlée Catering in the Carousel, our design team turned the ceremony space into a stunning place card setting. First, we moved the large floral Chuppah to the center of South Foyer to serve as the focal centerpiece of the room. Then, we placed two white lacquer rectangular tables with mirror tops on either side of the Chuppah to extend the entire decorative statement. Along the length of the escort card tables, we placed a series of glass vessels of varying heights holding floating candles and votives. As beautiful as they always are, the bridal bouquets were placed in tall stemmed glass vessels on these tables to be admired by the guests as part of the decor. Elegant plum-colored place cards were provided by the client and set out in an orderly fashion on both tables offering guests plenty of space to find their card with ease.

Guests were invited into a dramatically lit Hamilton Hall for dinner and dancing. The black and white design foundation played out throughout the dining room in the glamorous white sequin and white metallic rosette linens, as well as the Black Ruched Chairs, White Pop Chairs, white or black satin napkins secured in rhinestone buckles, and lacquered black urns and white glass vases. Then, we layered on the purple in one lush arrangement after another around the ballroom. Monochromatic floral displays of Magenta Dendrobium Orchids, Purple Vanda Orchids, Lavender Hydrangea, or Plum Mini Calla Lilies blended in with mixed floral centerpieces composed of Roses, Stock, Tulips, Lisianthus, Hydrangea, and Orchids.

The bride and groom’s head table was covered in layers of rich fabric including white matte satin linens and a delicate sheer organza rosette with black edging. White Pop Chairs with clear Lucite backs were placed around the entire table (not just one side) for bridal party seating, and white cleanly folded double-sided satin napkins were slipped into black velvet napkin rings with sequin buckles. Along the length of Table of Honor, we placed a low, lush design of purple flowers in long black vessels. Crystal globe and cut crystal candle holders on tall, statuesque glass bases with vibrant designs of flowers were placed on the table for height.

Such a beautiful couple and one incredible wedding! We thank our lovely bride and groom, as well as their families, for letting Evantine Design be a part of their marriage celebration. We invite you to take a look at the rest of their photos below to see more of this stunning event! Congratulations again Josh and Regina!

These stunning photos, right down to the last sensual image that is so beautifully lit, were provided courtesy of Drew Noel Photography. To see other weddings and events we have designed and planned at the Please Touch Museum, take a look HERE for an explosion of cherry blossoms, and HERE for a whimsical rainbow of personality!

We’re going to start dubbing Fridays and “Film Fridays” as there are so many sensational wedding and bar/bat mitzvah videos to share!

Wedding videography, or filmography, or cinema; however you refer to it these days in modern terms, has come such a long way in artistry, technology, and emotion. We truly love experiencing each celebration not just as a highlight reel, but as the love story it represents, and which can be shared over and over again with others.

The talent, professionalism, and dedication to the film craft is shown beautifully in CinemaCake’s wedding highlight film of Sara and Sean’s recent wedding at The Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia. Enjoy!

We are excited to share Rachel and Jonathan’s wedding highlight film from CinemaCake as we keep meaning to share their wedding photos, and, well, haven’t! Shame on us, right? But as you will see from this amazing highlight reel, their wedding down the Jersey Shore was a stunning event filled with emotion and classic style.  We particularly loved all the glass and architectural details their wedding venue, Revel, inspired in the design. Enjoy!

Rachel + Jonathan’s Coming Soon Trailer from CinemaCake Filmmakers on Vimeo.

Nothing says “gracious” more than hearing the host of the wedding stand up and make an incredible toast to the entire room. Sure, it’s wonderful to eat delicious food and dance the night away to a fabulous band. But, seriously folks, isn’t it the emotion and the inclusion that keeps the memory of the day fresh in our minds? How you were welcomed, how you were treated and how important you felt in a room of many. That’s what these special milestone celebrations are all about.

To us wedding planners, who have seen hundreds of weddings over the years, nothing reminds us of the REASON for the party more than the heartfelt, insightful, and hopefully HUMOROUS words offered by the father of the bride. Having been blown away recently by a client’s toast, we asked him if we could pick his brain on how he developed his amazing “father of the bride” speech and if he would allow us to share his endearing toast on our blog. It was no surprise to us when he agreed and was more than happy to help. Take a look at his authentic words of wisdom as well as his incredible speech. We hope it inspires you as much as it did us…

{Photo courtesy of Cliff Mautner}

The SECRET to making a thoughtful wedding day toast starts with a simple, straight-forward approach that goes a little something like this:

1. Welcome everyone;
2. Thank your out-of-town guests for traveling from afar;
3. Thank your daughter’s new in-laws;
4. Thank your spouse profusely;
5. Offer a general message to all the guests about the occasion;
6. Offer a message to your new son-in-law;
7. Offer a message to your daughter; and then end with glass raised and
8. Make a toast to the bride and groom.

However, here are a few TOASTING RULES I learned from other fathers of the bride who shared their stories with me:

• Never say anything even remotely disparaging about the wedding, the wedding guests or the bride and groom.  Do NOT say anything negative, even in jest, such as “I hope your marriage lasts” or “things can get tough at times” or “I wasn’t sure we were gonna make it here tonight” or anything like it. Keep it positive, keep it supportive.
• Absolutely minimize the use of the word AND as it diminishes the importance of what comes after (except when referring to the bride “and” groom).  Make it two sentences, each standing on its own.
• Refer to the bridal couple as “Bride and Groom” or “Groom and Bride”; but be consistent and do not switch.
• In my speech (shared below), you will see the places where I wrote PAUSE.  Those pauses were for emphasis and make people really listen to what’s coming next as in “Sharon, PAUSE, you look so beautiful tonight…”
• Put the microphone close to your mouth.
• Try NOT to use a written speech, or if you do need one, hold it only for reminders. Don’t read from it.
• Practice, practice, practice.

Now, for the WEDDING SPEECH. I am so very honored to share it with you, and with any other father of the bride who can be inspired by it for their own upcoming celebration. Every time I read it, I still weep with joy!  What a special night.  Here goes:

Nancy and I welcome all of you and thank you for being here tonight to help us celebrate Sharon and David’s wedding.  We are truly honored to share such a wonderful occasion with our family and friends.  I am especially proud to say that many of you have been our friends for 20 years, some as many as 30 years, and a few have been my friend for 50 years.

We are especially grateful to those of you who have traveled a little farther than the rest of us, including those from as far south as Florida, as far west as California and as far East as England.

To Jessica and Jon (pause), we couldn’t have asked for better machatunim to share the future with.  We look forward to celebrating simchas, holidays, good food, and good wine for many years to come…..and not only with Sharon and David.

Nancy, there is a list (pause), yes an actual list (pause), that is very long, containing the names of people who have stood in this exact position (pause), at this exact moment in their lives (pause), and with sheer amazement and pride, announced how absolutely incredible someone ELSE has been for pulling together the million details that go into creating a fabulous memory for everyone here tonight.  You may now, officially, add my name to that list.  I am truly grateful for everyday that we have each other.  I thank you and I love you.

And to those of you who root for one or more of the following 7 sports teams, (slowly) the Giants, the Redskins, the Devils, the Rangers, the Capitals, the Mets, or the Nationals, and you know exactly who you are; we who live here welcome you to Philadelphia and ask that we put our rivalry on hold ….for tonight.

Speaking of 7, many of you may not know that the number 7 has tremendous significance in Jewish history and culture; the most obvious being that the world was created in 7 days…6 days of work plus Shabbat.  But did you know that the Torah begins with a verse containing 7 words?  Or that there are 7 Jewish holidays, and that Rosh Hashanah occurs in the 7^th month?  Or that there are 7 weeks between Passover, the Exodus from Egypt and Shavout, when Moses received the Ten Commandments on Mt Sinai. You saw Sharon circle David 7 times during the ceremony, and you heard Sheva Bracha, 7 blessings, recited.  There are 7 continents, 7 seas and the list goes on.

So let’s bring it a little closer to home:

• I’ll bet you didn’t realize that Sharon and David met 7 years after they became Bar and Bat Mitzvah.
• And, that this weekend marks exactly 7 years since the first time Nancy and I met David when he and Sharon were studying abroad in Edinburgh, Scotland.
• And, to the entire Rubenstein family, David is about 7 feet tall and we are extremely happy to finally have tall genes in the family
• And Sharon (pause), you are so beautiful and radiant tonight that Mom and I are in 7^{th HEAVEN} 

David, when I felt the need to confirm, what Nancy and I knew for a long time, that the two of you would make fabulous soul mates and partners, I asked Sharon 7 questions…

1. Does he treat you as an equal? (pause)
2. Do you look forward to going home at night just so you can be with him? (pause)
3. Does he ask for your opinion and does he listen to the answer? (pause)
4. Is he proud of you? (pause)
5. Does he respect what’s important to you? (pause)
6. Does he make you laugh? (pause)
7. Does he tell you that he loves you? (pause)

Unequivocally, and without hesitation, Sharon gave me 7 Yesses.  David (pause) you are the luckiest person in the room tonight because you are now entrusted with the lion’s share, of the heart, of our favorite daughter in the whole wide world.  Nancy and I are so happy that she chose YOU.  Though your de-facto initiation occurred many years ago, we are thrilled to officially, publicly, and with a tremendous amount of love, welcome you to our family,

(SLOWLY) Sharon, from the first moment we laid eyes on you, Mom and I have been so proud of you.  From You Are My Sunshine, to Har Zion pre school, to the pink corvette, to Do ya, do ya, do ya do yo wanna dance, to the boys baseball team, to Camp PawPaw, Harvard, New York City, the Boston Marathon, and now Penn Health, you’ve had a truly remarkable run that we are absolutely sure will continue with your latest terrific decision (pause) sharing your life with David.

So Sharon and David, here are the last 7 for the evening (pause)…Mom and I hope you will

1. Stay healthy;
2. Be involved in your community;
3. Look South, not North, to see how fortunate your lives are;
4. Stay close and connected with your family;
5. Trust your gut – you’ve both experienced plenty of Life’s lessons;
6. Always, always have each other’s back;
7. and give each other unconditional love. (pause) ALWAYS.

(PUT DOWN NOTES, PICK UP GLASS)

Please join Nancy and me in a toast to Sharon and David….

You are both so incredibly fortunate to have found each other.  May your lives together always be blessed with happiness, good health and success.  And may you always know how much you are loved.

L’Chaim

{As written by the Four Seasons Magazine}

Although Juliet and Grant envisioned a formal setting for their May wedding at Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia, above all they wanted to ensure that their guests had a memorable evening. Their inspiration? Disco balls and Champagne. “I wanted a classic look, but a party feel,” Juliet says. “I wanted guests to remember how much fun they had.”

Blue and Purple Palette . . . Courtyard Ceremony . . . Candlelit Reception

The Scene: The wedding ceremony was held outdoors in the courtyard of Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia, followed by a candlelit reception in the ballroom. For décor, the couple chose a vibrant colour palette of blues and purples. Banquet tables were set with purple centrepieces of varying heights, shimmering tablecloths and cobalt blue stemware. A live band helped achieve the fun atmosphere Juliet and Grant had envisioned. “They made our reception,” says the bride. “We requested very few slow songs, and the band director added a rock and roll element so no one wanted to sit down. Everyone was dancing the whole time!”

Magical Moment: For Juliet and Grant, no single element of their wedding day was more memorable than the others. But seeing each other as Juliet walked down the aisle, with the sun setting, was one of two that stand out. For the second, she says, “We entered the reception to Ozzy Osbourne’s ‘Crazy Train,’ and the energy and excitement as we ran into the room was incredible.”

The Bride & Groom: Juliet chose a fitted lace Rivini wedding gown with an open back, which she paired with Manolo Blahnik pumps. The groom wore a custom black tuxedo designed by Peter Oliver.

A Personal Touch: For her “something borrowed,” Juliet wore her sister’s pearl-drop earrings. “I also wore a pearl bracelet that was a gift my dad gave my mom on their first Valentine’s Day,” she says.

Photography Liz Banfield Photography
Florals and Event Planning Brian Kappra, Evantine Design

- See more at: http://magazine.fourseasons.com/weddings/real-weddings/four-seasons-hotel-philadelphia-wedding#sthash.Rg0WHfcg.dpuf

WITH THE COMING OF THE NEW YEAR, we’re ready to renew and refresh our blog presence beginning with, well, blogging! Duh! The last few months of 2014 were a blur of parties and events, and sadly, hopping on the blog and sharing the journey wasn’t as often as we like it to be. But we know you understand as we all get a little bogged down from time to time, right?

We ARE grateful to see that after 35 years in the weddings and events business, Evantine is not only still relevant, but THRIVING! Many, many wonderful changes are ahead of us this year, but one of those changes will be to see the end of one of our dearest event partnerships. Well, not the end, per se. Just a major shift that will require the end of a glorious era while we wait {impatiently} for the birth of a new one. Of what do we speak? The closing of the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia on One Logan Square, of course! Over the many years since the Four Seasons Hotel opened its luxurious doors at One Logan, Evantine has produced countless glamorous weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs, birthday parties, private celebrations, corporate and non-profit events in its stylish rooms. Too numerous to list, frankly. Blessed, honored and grateful would be the words that come to mind in thinking of all the parties we’ve had the pleasure to design inside and outside at One Logan. We’re truly sorry to see it end!

Transformation is afoot! With its closing comes a major renovation and a new luxury hotel set to open in its place. AND, more importantly, a fabulous new home in the clouds for the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia! But where, you ask? Well, as with most things hailed as “top of the line”, not just Anywhere Philadelphia. Comcast Corp. announced in January 2014 that it would build a new skyscraper tower in Philadelphia and as part of the $1.2 billion {and climbing} project, the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia would relocate to the top of the new Comcast tower.

Well, as we like to say here in our own stylish rooms at Evantine Design, BRING IT ON! We’re ready to partner on new adventures! But first, to honor the beautiful relationship we’ve enjoyed with our friends and colleagues at the current Four Seasons Hotel property, until June when One Logan closes, we’re going to regularly feature a Four Seasons event we’ve designed. Yep, right here, All Things Four Seasons will exist on our Evantine Blog! And there’s no time like the present, so without further ado, here’s Juliet and Grant’s Modern Blue and Purple Wedding from May 2014!

{Photos courtesy of Liz Banfield Photography}

ALL GOOD THINGS COME TO THOSE WHO WAIT. Juliet, the third of three gorgeous daughters, not only found her One & Only {that’s you Grant!} but she also managed to snag a beautiful Spring day for her Philadelphia wedding celebration. Ordinarily, the fine Spring weather wouldn’t be something to rejoice about to quite this degree. However, having lived through crazy, tempestuous weather for other family weddings, Juliet and Grant’s idyllic Spring day was nothing short of a miracle!

In the Summer of 2008 we had the pleasure of planning and designing the bride’s two sisters’ weddings in back-to-back, big parties that took place outdoors in tents. The first was a June wedding that suffered unseasonable sweltering temperatures. The second, three months later, was the victim of a rare Philadelphia hurricane. Both AH-mazing events despite the sticky and soggy environments, thanks to fabulous tented cities we installed, as well as the fast-thinking, hard-working event professionals, and the laid back, open-minded and trusting family. FINALLY to have third one take place without sweltering temperatures, hurricane winds or torrential rain is just short of a miracle! The third time really is the charm a gorgeous, brilliant Spring day at the always amazing Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia.

As you can see, Juliet and Grant envisioned a traditional wedding told in all tones of blue in simple, modern ways. Meaning, light and airy floral arrangements displayed in sparkling glass vases set against the opulence that is, and always has been, the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia. Enjoy!

{and Harry, now that your sisters are married, we’re just waiting for you to get yourself to the “altar” so to speak… no pressure.}

FLORAL SIDE NOTE. The beautiful flowers used throughout the wedding, most particularly in the personal flowers that adorned the bridal party, included white peonies and hydrangea, as well as blue delphinium and grape hyacinth. The bridesmaids carried the same palette, but reversed in the color palette meaning gorgeous blue hydrangea was the dominate bloom in their bouquets with pops of ivory peonies, white stock, gray silver dollar, and variegated hosta leaves. They flowers were the perfect example of “modern garden meets elegant ballroom” that Juliet envisioned.

Want to read more about this wedding? Then head on over to visit the Four Seasons Hotel Magazine which featured Juliet and Grant’s wedding in a beautiful multi-image kind of way that we sort of love. And, of course a big THANK YOU to our dear friend Liz Banfield of Liz Banfield Photography for these lovely images!

Marsala? Or just fabulous, festive RED? Bridal Bouquet by Evantine Design; Photo by Cliff Mautner

Okay, to know us at all is to know we’re not super keen on naming, following or obsessing over “trends” in the wedding industry. Oh sure, we appreciate the idea of them as just like Pinterest, trends reflect popular taste and what’s causing a stir among the bridal set.

However, we like to encourage our clients to follow the beat of their own tune, trendy, classic, traditional, wack-a-doodle, or not. For instance, if you’re inspired to embrace this year’s “color of the season” according to the folks at Pantone, aka Marsala, or as we like to call it, RED, then by all means, go for it. Our floral design team would be delighted to whip up a gorgeous Marsala bridal bouquet for you in layers of red, plum, cherry, burgundy, cardinal, crimson, ruby, wine, garnet, blood, oxblood, candy, current, merlot, scarlet, or whatever other name you want to call it.

To us, it’s all about YOU. And baby, that’s all that matters when you’re planning your wedding. {Well, that and a few other thousand details, but you get the idea.}

{Bridal Bouquet by Evantine Design; Photo by Cliff Mautner}

Floral Design by Evantine Design; Photo courtesy of Drew Noel Photography

In honor of International Women’s Day‘s 2015 Theme: Make it Happen and ‪#‎PaintitPurple‬ campaign, we’re sharing this image of some beautiful bridesmaids as well as the bouquets we designed for them to carry in all shades of, what else? PURPLE!

What is International Women’s Day?

All around the world, International Women’s Day (IWD) represents an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of women while calling for greater equality. BOOM. That’s it, that’s all. Important to remember every day but TODAY it’s a global statement we’re happy to participate in. In some countries, like China, Russia, Vietnam and Bulgaria, International Women’s Day is a national holiday.

Make It Happen is the 2015 theme which encourages effective action for advancing and recognizing women. The first International Women’s Day was held in 1911 and each year IWD is celebrated on March 8. Thousands of events occur to mark the economic, political and social achievements of women. Organizations, governments, charities, educational institutions, women’s groups, corporations and the media celebrate the day.

Why purple?

From 1908, the Women’s Social and Political Union (WSPU) in Great Britain adopted the color scheme of purple, white and green to symbolize the plight of the Suffragettes. In case you aren’t familiar with the term, or just don’t remember your high school history lessons, Suffragettes campaigned for women’s right to vote. The word ‘Suffragette’ is derived from the word “suffrage” meaning the right to vote. International Women’s Day honors the work of the Suffragettes, celebrates women’s success, and reminds us all of inequities still to be addressed and eradicated across the globe.

PURPLE POWER! Specifically, purple symbolizes justice and dignity – two values strongly associated with women’s equality to this day. The three colors were, and still are, used for banners, flags, rosettes and badges to show solidarity. Like many other businesses, EVANTINE DESIGN has chosen to take part in today’s celebration if only by honoring women through a few beautiful images shared across our social media.

Join us, please.

#PaintItPurple in your own world’s today to mark International Women’s Day and show your support. You can also lend your support by
donating to your favorite women’s charity, supporting a female-focused crowd-funding initiative, or via social media using hashtags#PaintItPurple, #Makeithappen, #IWD, #womensday, and #internationalwomensday.  

Wedding | Photo courtesy of Sarah DiCicco

By Brian Kappra, Owner and Creative Director of Evantine Design, Inc.

Well, the end of an era has finally arrived. It’s a sad, sad, SAD week as the legendary luxury hotel, the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia, is closing its doors at One Logan Square. In a couple years, it will reopen in a new chi-chi spot high in the clouds and we intend to party hard there, God willing! However, and I speak for myself, as well as the whole Evantine Design crew, WE will always be grateful for the amazing 30+ years we worked on events at the Four Seasons. The number of incredible events we produced and planned under that roof make my head spin! In fact, I remember bringing trees up to the roof of the building in 1983 when it was being topped off and the hotel was just being introduced to Philadelphia!

As you can see from the collection of event photos below, we have enjoyed many years of fellowship, collaboration and partnership with the exceptional professionals that proudly call(ed) the Four Seasons home. Unbelievable stories, memorable occasions, unforgettable celebrations. That’s the Four Seasons spirit and it will rise again! And when it does, Evantine will be there. Ready for the next chapter to begin… but seriously…

THANK YOU for redefining the standard of luxury in Philadelphia. XOXO Brian

Bar Mitzvah | Photo courtesy of MK Photo

Wedding | Photo courtesy of Cliff Mautner Photography

Wedding | Photo courtesy of XSightUSA

Bat Mitzvah | Photo courtesy of Susan Beard Design

Bat Mitzvah | Photo courtesy of MK Photo

Bar Mitzvah | Photo courtesy of Evantine Design

Wedding | Photo courtesy of Phil Kramer Photography

Wedding | Photo courtesy of Phil Kramer Photography

Mitzvah | Photo courtesy of Susan Beard Design

Wedding | Photo courtesy of Philip Gabriel Photography

Wedding | Photo courtesy of Michael Smith/Ash Imagery

Corporate Party | Photo courtesy of Faith West Photography

Wedding | Photo courtesy of Evantine Design

Wedding | Photo courtesy of Cliff Mautner Photography

Wedding | Photo courtesy of Phil Kramer Photography

Bar Mitzvah | Photo courtesy of Susan Beard Design

Wedding | Photo courtesy of Cliff Mautner Photography

Bat Mitzvah | Photo courtesy of Paul Loftland

Wedding | Photo courtesy of Liz Banfield

Wedding | Photo courtesy of XSightUSA

Wedding | Photo courtesy of Cliff Mautner Photography

Bat Mitzvah | Photo courtesy of Susan Beard Design

Wedding | Photo courtesy of Phil Kramer Photography

POWERFUL MOMENTS, TRANSFORMATIVE EXPERIENCES.

That’s what we want to create for our clients no matter what type of event we’re designing for you.

This moment of speechlessness and joy, captured so beautifully by David & Blonnie photo + cinema, says it all and speaks to our hearts as creative professionals. The Sneak, the Peek, or the Ballroom Reveal. No matter how you label it, it’s just a few minutes of privacy in an otherwise jammed wedding day. Wrangling our brides and grooms out of their cocktail reception and away from their guests is never easy, but as you can see, those few stolen moments are worth it! Seeing the ballroom in all its romantic glory is appreciated by all. Particularly after we’ve talked and dreamed about the flowers (and linens, and candles, and dance floor, and lighting, and chairs) for months!

MAGIC MOMENTS FOR WEDDING PLANNERS.

But aside from the stunned amazement enjoyed by our clients, what a gorgeous moment for us at Evantine Design! As Janey and Andrew’s wedding planners, event designers and overall partners in crime, there is nothing more heartwarming than to share these moments with them. In addition to feeling that whoosh! of relief that the design is loved, we got just as blurry-eyed and mushy-brained as they did!

We thank Janey and Andrew, as well as their families, for including us in yet another family celebration.

The holidays are behind us now and “engagement season” is now officially open! All kidding aside, we congratulate all the newly engaged couples out there and wish you, and your families, much joy during this precious time. But, please, if we could suggest anything to you as wedding planners who have seen it all and then some, PLEASE take the time to enjoy your engagement. Treasure the wedding planning journey for it is more than trying on gowns and tasting cakes. We love seeing happy couples and their families sitting around our conference table; couples who are thoroughly enjoying themselves instead of collapsing under the pressure of weighty expectations.

The careful planning of your wedding is not something to rush through or feel stressed out about. Embrace it. Enjoy it. Savor it. Look at it as a transitional time for you and your beloved to start working together as your own family unit, and for your families to work together as a team. Share your dreams with each other. Include your families in the conversation. Listen to each other. Acknowledge what is important to each of you in sharing the celebration with others. Be willing to compromise or offer realistic alternatives. Trust each other, as well as the experienced professionals you choose to work with on this milestone occasion. Honor each other’s individuality and treasure the unexpected creativity that springs forth during the process.

Being engaged alone is something to celebrate! Planning a wedding is amazing, truly. But marriage, well, MARRIAGE is a beautiful thing if you let it bloom.

{Photo courtesy of Michael Spain-Smith}

WE’RE LOOKING BACK over our crazy-amazing year of events and weddings. WOW. Hard to believe we managed to produce such a diverse collection of parties and celebrations in 2016! Our best year ever, and that’s saying a lot since we’ve been designing events for over 30 years now.

As we make our own year-end review, we’ll be sharing some of the most memorable events here on the blog. Starting with this magnificent day we planned and designed for Allie and Jordan at The Hyatt at The Bellevue. Not only was Allie breathtaking in her fashion-forward gown, but the entire room was moved to tears by the sentimental words of love shared during their wedding ceremony. Snowballing right into more laughter and tears as the toasts were made during the wedding reception. Clearly, this was a love story not only shared between Allie and Jordan, but with their family and friends too.

What a privilege and joy for Evantine Design to be a part of it! Mazel tov again to the happy couple!

{Video courtesy of CinemaCake Filmmakers}