Congrats Mr. and Mrs. Wolstenholme!

On April 16, we assisted with the day-of coordination for Mr. and Mrs. Alex Wolstenholme. While the weather gave us some trouble during set-up, with tornado warnings and watches all over the Triangle area, the reception turned out beautifully. The parents of the bride, our clients, truly enjoyed their daughter's wedding and wanted to tell us so!

Words from our client:

"It truly is hard to describe how much we appreciated Natasha’s work, effort and know-how for our daughter’s wedding. She was professional from day one. She never questioned our opinion and truly was there to help. We can honestly say that without her assistance we wouldn’t have been able to make the final essential steps to pull-off our daughter’s DYI

wedding. Our daughter, who was originally opposed to having a Wedding Planner, acknowledged it was not only “helpful”, but essential. While weddings are expensive, Natasha “saved” our daughter’s reception. Not only was she pleasant and professional, she allowed us to truly enjoy and serve as hosts at the reception. She competently executed elaborate details of a DYI wedding with care, grace and professionalism. Although Natasha was a “Day-Of” coordinator, she contacted each vendor, met with them ahead of time and thoroughly reviewed and reassured us of the contractual agreements that we had in place.

Natasha truly walked into what we felt was a disaster zone and guided us though the process to fruition under adverse conditions. The Reception venue was an outdoor special events tent and surrounding open spaces. And the date was Saturday, April 16, 2011 – the most tornado outbursts in North Carolina’s history.

Natasha said from the very beginning, “you will not hear from me during the reception unless there is something that I truly can’t handle”. And, we didn’t hear any requests from Natasha or her staff – and later learned that three inches of water stood on the floor of the Events Tent along with drenched rental tables, linens along with décor only an hour prior to the reception.

How it all began – prior to Natasha:

We were apprehensive from the beginning of the wedding planning. As parents of the bride we
wanted that special day to be exactly as our daughter wished – of course within a budget. As we mentioned “budget” and compared notes, we realized that this was going to have to be a DYI wedding as well. We felt comfortable with the concept of coming up and carrying out unique ideas, as all four of us have some bit of a creative side. Our situation, however, was complicated a bit further; our daughter and husband-to-be live in England. With our two full-time jobs, a long distance and an ocean between us and our daughter, and an already busy schedule, we set out on the adventure of “co-planning” the wedding with our daughter and her fiancée.

Our DYI approach consisted of purchasing our own linens, making the table decorations, as well as purchasing serving items and beverages. We also had secured professionals from friends that were in the business. My husband and I visited venues and posted photos on-line and on You-Tube for our daughter to make decisions from a distance. I frequented Habitat for Humanity ReStore to purchase flatware – mismatched as a “green” approach to also give back to the community. We did a similar approach for the coffee/tea cups with purchases from Durham Rescue Mission. Ribbon of the “pantone” was purchased and many projects were in progress for several months.

While the venue was secured, we had frequent interactions with the venue events coordinator. She reassured us that the venue and her staff would coordinate all of the reception activities of the day as well as the coordinate additional rentals. We also had approval with this coordinator for all of our vendors (DJ, cater, cake, etc.) as She met with us and the vendors ahead of time. We felt extremely comfortable with the venue and their staffs’ capability to handle our daughter’s wishes, and our verbal and e-mail agreements went well beyond that of the contract. We had envisioned a worry-free and smooth event without the need of a Wedding Coordinator.

We are in over our heads – why we needed assistance and fast:

Within weeks prior to the count-down of our daughter’s wedding we learned that the events coordinator that we had been working so closely with at the venue was leaving for another position. At this point, our home and our time were taken over by bits and pieces of the projects in various stages of completion, and we knew we had a lot of stuff to handle…. And we knew that, as much as the venue tried to fill in and make the wedding reception go well, it became extremely clear that the venue Wedding File that was left didn’t contain the details of the verbal and face-to-face information and agreements that were discussed. Additionally, there were other events that the new folks had to coordinate that were being confused with our daughter’s wedding.

Saving our sanity – working with Natasha:

It was at that point that Natasha walked into our DYI wedding planning. We were overwhelmed and needed assistance. Natasha was hired as a “Day of Event” coordinator. Immediately, Natasha met with us to determine the magnitude of assistance needed. She reviewed the items scattered about our house and immediately had a plan. She walked away with copies of contracts and contact information, and an appointment to return within the week to assist us with boxing and sorting and counting the items needed for the reception. Spending at least two visits and many hours each visit, we had a comprehensive list of our items that were to be returned, those to be delivered to the catering company, and well defined boxes of what she would take from our home to allow us space to prepare for the guests that we would entertain. She continued to be positive, pleasant and helpful. I appreciated that she was not overwhelmed by the magnitude of stuff that we had floating about or the number of trips that she had to make to our house. Additionally, she demonstrated creativity along with practicality – later as the weather demanded alterations in the entire set up these attributes we now see as essential.

The day of:

What Natasha and her staff, along with the vendors, had to endure to set up the reception as the storms passed is still beyond my comprehension. Natasha had to work with the “new” events coordinator at the venue site, knowing that only she had the correct information. She was able to firmly address the items that were needed and yet not offend the venue staff. She calmed the vendors that had to pull their equipment from vans during downpours. She made last minute changes that were in our best interest. The reception was beautiful and the bride and groom loved every minute of their day. We visited with family and longtime family friends. Natasha created a beautiful and wonderful atmosphere when we were in need of a true wizard during an emotional and chaotic day. She was literally the calm within the storm.

Thereafter:

Natasha didn’t stop at the set up or as the DJ played the last song. She continued to organize the food that we could take. And, gracefully told us to go home, get sleep and relax. She coordinated the clean-up, returns and again, made multiple trips to our home to deliver the DYI items to our house safe and well cared for."

- Jeff and Dee Sailstad


For more pictures of this wedding, and video of the rain set up, please visit our Facebook page.

Chicago Is Still An Event Kind of Town!

I saw too many amazing event spaces to fit them all into one post. Welcome to Part 2 of "Chicago Is An Event Kind of Town!", including amazing views, amazing art, and a library.

The Harold Washington Library Center

As part of the tour I took through the Chicago Greeter program, I was taken to a branch of the current Chicago public library, the Harold Washington Library Center. The library itself is a beautiful building, with fountains and marble work inside. While gorgeous throughout, the Winter Garden on the library's ninth floor may be the most amazing part of the library.

The Winter Garden is two stories with a glass paneled dome that covers the room's ceiling. I visited this space during the early afternoon hours, and the domed ceiling let in an amazing amount of light. I don't think a single artificial light was on during my visit. The natural light made the space even more appealing for an afternoon wedding reception or brunch function.

In addition to the spectacular architecture and visual appeal of this space, the Winter Garden can only be accessed by elevator. This added benefit allows an event to be truly private while still taking place in a public space. When I stepped off the elevator on the library's ninth floor, I felt like I was stepping into a completely different world. The room is so peaceful and welcoming that it was hard to believe that just below my feet people where reading, studying, and surfing the internet.

For more information on the Winter Garden at the Harold Washington Library Center, click here.

Willis Tower (Formerly Sears Tower)

I had always heard about the Sears Tower and wanted to tour the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. (Never mind that I'm kind of a chicken when it comes to heights.) Now called "the Willis Tower", the Skydeck is on the 103rd floor of the building, and offers views of the city you can't seen anywhere else. I took this picture from the Skydeck of the city and Lake Michigan.

Though I was too much of a wimp to do it, you should go on the Ledge when visiting Willis Tower. The Ledge is a glass extension built out from the walls of the tower that allows you to literally stand above Chicago. Word to the wise, don't look down before you step out. That's what made me chicken out!

If you can handle the height, the 99th floor of the Willis Tower is an event venue that seats up to 300 guests. While not quite as high as the observation deck, the views from the 99th floor are just as stunning. In addition to holding your event on the 99th floor, you can treat your guests to VIP access to the Skydeck and Ledge. When planning an event at the Willis Tower's Skydeck you may want to consider handing out gum to your guests as they get on the elevator. My ears wouldn't pop on the elevator to the 103rd floor, making me wish I'd remembered to drop a pack of gum into my purse before going.

For more information on using the 99th floor of the Willis Tower for an event, click here.

Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago, located on South Michigan Avenue, may be the largest museum I have every been in. With four floors of art exhibits to browse, you could spend days here. The Art Institute is home to peices like American Gothic, Nighthawks, and A Sunday on La Grande Jatte. One of my favorite exhibits was "Arms and Armor", which featured an array of armor from around the world. I also enjoyed seeing Picasso's The Old Guitarist up close; that was amazing!

While I was visiting the Art Institute, an event was being set up in the Stock Exchange Trading Room. I wasn't allowed to go in to tour the space, but I did look in all the windows as staff were setting up. This room is gorgeous! The room was created with sections of the original Adler and Sullivan's Stock Exchange Trading Room was torn down in the 1970s. The details in the space are astounding. Look at the images available on the Art Institute website, and you'll see what I mean.

If you get the chance to throw an event in Chicago, take it. And consider one of these venues for it. Even if you're not throwing an event, go visit these places. They're all amazing and interesting in their own way, and are completely worth seeing.

Chicago Is...An Event Kind of Town!

Sorry, Frank, for butchering your song, but it's true. Chicago really is an event kind of town!

During the last week of April, I visited Chicago on vacation. While I had intended for the entire five day trip to be a leisurly vacation, it seemed I couldn't avoid the event business anywhere in Chicago. Not that I minded; in fact, I loved it! I was able to tour some incredible event spaces in venues ranging from hotels to zoos.

The Gold Room in the Congress Plaza Hotel

I stayed at the Congress Plaza Hotel during my stay in Chicago. While my photos don't do this room the justice it deserves, this ballroom is gorgeous! When the gentleman let me in to see the room, all the lights were still out. I walked into the center of the room just as the light were coming on, and I caught my breath. The room is that beautiful. I felt like I was in a fairytale. The entire room is gold and cream, with intricate details all along on the walls that ceiling. If you ever get a chance to see this space, take it! You won't regret it.

The Gold Room is available for weddings and can hold up to 300 people. For more information on the Gold Room, click here.

The Chicago Cultural Arts Center

The Chicago Cultural Arts Center on Michigan Avenue was originally build as Chicago's first public library. Now the building holds hundreds of public events every year. While I was visiting, a free concert was taking place on the ground floor of the building with an art exhibit in the next room over.

I was given a tour of the building by a member of the Chicago Greeter program, a free program offered by the Chicago Office of Tourism. The architecture in this building is amazing. The G.A. Rotunda features a domed ceiling made of Tiffany glass. It's absolutely gorgeous! The venue also has a stunning marble staircase that demands a grand entrance. I was wearing jeans and sneakers but couldn't resist the urge to walk slowly and majestically down this staircase...even if I looked crazy doing it. I know that in a formal dress, that walk would have looked stunning.

Information about the G.A. Rotunda can be found here. This link includes the history of the room and information 0n the gorgeous glass art featured in it. To find out about renting areas in the Chicago Cultural Center for a private event, click here.

The Lincoln Park Zoo

First of all, I love zoos. I visited the Lincoln Park Zoo initially to see the polar bear, big cats, and red panda...to name a few. Come to find out, you have actually hold an event in various parts of the zoo, surrounded by the animals.

The Kovler Lion House, home of lions, a tiger, and a cheetah, is one of locations in the zoo that offers event space. How cool would it be to hold your reception while a pair of lions watches from the background? In addition to the animals, the building the large cats are housed in is gorgeous. The architecture is almost as interesting as the animals.

If you prefer an exhibit of plant eaters, the Lincoln Park Zoo has options for you too. The Regenstein Center for African Apes allows you and your guests to be immersed in the habitat of endangered gorillas and chimpanzees. Additionally, the Regenstein African Journey contains animals from the African jungles and savannahs. The giraffes are in this exhibit, along with a pygmy hippo and a rhinoceros.

All of these exhibits are incredibly interesting to explore. I had a blast going through them! Spend a Saturday afternoon at the zoo (admission is free!), or find out about having an event in one of the zoo's many venue options here.

Navy Pier

This place is just cool, event space or not. Navy Pier is a "must see" place in Chicago housing the Chicago Children's Museum, Shakespeare Theater, and Smith Museum of Stained Glass Windows. The Pier also houses a beautiful ferris wheel that offers amazing views of the city, which is what immediately made me fall in love with this space. I adore ferris wheels and have always wanted to have my own wedding photos taken on one. I visited the pier at night, and the view of Chicago from the top of the ferris wheel was absolutely breathtaking. In addition to the ferris wheel, the Pier has a mini golf course, swings, and a carousel.

While I was visiting, an event as going on in the Grand Ballroom. You can see Lake Michigan and the ferris wheel from inside this domed, glass room. I didn't get to tour this space, but from what I could see from the ferris wheel and swings outside the Ballroom, it looks like an amazing space. The Pier offers venue space for weddings, meetings, and rooftop receptions with a full listing here.


I saw several other awesome venues while in Chicago - too many to fit in one post. Part 2 of "Chicago Is...An Event Kind of Town!" is coming later this week with even more Chicago event spaces.

Some We Love

We all know the Wedding World changes everyday. It can be hard to keep up with current trends and awesome ideas by just reading quarterly publication. So, this post is all about the blogs we follow for new ideas, inspiration, and well, fun. But be warned - once you start reading these blogs, you'll be as hooked as we are!

The Off Beat Bride

The Off Beat Bride is one of my favorites! (Yes, it's totally worth italics and an exclamation point. It's that awesome.) Off Beat features weddings that are just that - off beat. The "Wedding Porn" tab features real weddings from around the country and what new and innovative ideas the couple's incorporate. Every article has great pictures of wedding and insights from the bride about her funniest moment and what surprisingly turned out to be a hit.

My absolute favorite part of this blog is the "DIY" section. It's got the best ideas! They're out of the box, fun, and crafts you an actually do. One of my pet peeves about some DIY projects is that they're impossible to do or to find all the things you need. These aren't like that. And the instructions are realistic; one of them actually lists "patience" as one of the things you'll need for the project. I appreciate knowing that upfront before getting in over my head.

Green Wedding Shoes

The best thing about Green Wedding Shoes is the "Real Weddings" section. They include a great range of weddings, from backyard to vintage. I love how real the coverage of these weddings is. Every one of these weddings includes a truly personal touch from the bride and groom. You almost feel like you've met the couple by browsing through their wedding page and seeing how they added their personality to their big day.

I also love the "Inspiration Board" section under the "Galleries" tab. This is an awesome resource for both the bride looking for her colors and the bride who's decided on her palette. Need theme inspiration? Look here for that too. These inspiration boards offer beautiful images and ideas to kick start your wedding decorations. (My favorite is Inspiration Board #26 because I adore travelling!)

While we love these two blogs, they aren't the only ones. Check back for more "Some We Love" posts!

Words For Our Work with the 2010 Chapel Hill-Carrboro Holiday Parade

On Saturday, December 11, 2010, we were part of the Chapel Hill-Carrboro Holiday Parade. The parade drew thousands of oberservers to downtown Chapel Hill and Carrboro to see over eighty festive parade floats made by local community groups, non-profit organizations, and area businesses.

Words from our Client:

I am writing to give my recommendation to Natasha Wayne for her excellent services as event planner. In the summer of 2010, I volunteered as a member of the Chapel Hill Jaycees to lead preparations for the Chapel Hill-Carrboro Holiday parade, taking place in December of that year. Our local chapter hired Ms. Wayne to assist with parade planning and organization details.

Throughout the time Ms. Wayne and I worked together, Ms. Wayne was diligent, energetic and detail-oriented. From the onset she offered innovative strategies to economically market the event. She kept on task, made sure we met important deadlines, and offered creative approaches in all facets of planning. I was also impressed with her leadership skills and the care she took to maintain the Jaycees’ stylistic preferences for the occasion.

The 2010 Chapel Hill-Carrboro Holiday Parade was a great success, in large part because of Ms. Wayne’s conscientious efforts. Without hesitation, I would reselect her to plan any future event on our calendar.

Sincerely,

Katherine Bandy

2010 Chapel Hill-Carrboro Holiday Parade
Saturday, December 11, 2010