9.06.2010
The Inspired Bride Event at StudioWed Atlanta
Don't miss The Inspired Bride Interactive Bridal Event at StudioWed Atlanta this Sunday, September 12th from 2-5pm. From dreamy tablescapes and custom cakes to charming details, StudioWed invites you to be inspired for your big day. Mingle with the StudioWed experts, while listening to music, enjoying delicious bites and getting inspiration from tables designed by the talented vendors of StudioWed. Be one of the first 100 brides and receive a luxury swag bag and all brides registered will be entered to win a host of amazing giveaways including a honeymoon from Pleasant Holidays. For more information and to register for the event, visit The Inspired Bride Event website.
Real Wedding ~ Jennifer and Jake
It was a hot summer day for Jennifer and Jake's beautiful Carillon Beach, FL wedding photographed by Pure 7 Studios. Jennifer and Jake's event was designed in a soft palette of muted hues of white, pink, peach, yellow and green with a few bold details in cobalt blue, which included the bridesmaid's one shoulder cocktail gowns. Jennifer wore a soft A-line gown with gardenia blossoms tucked in her hair, a waist cinching sash in Champagne an adorable pair of peep toe pumps with bow detailing. The bridesmaids accessorized with gold sandals, pendant necklaces with their initial and stunning bouquets of hydrangea, dahlia, and gardenia blooms similar to Jennifer's, but smaller. Jake and his groomsmen wore tan seersucker suits paired with patterned ties in lime and boutonnieres that matched the blossoms in the girl's bouquets. The ceremony was held at The Meeting House chapel, an all white venue with hardwood floors and big open windows. Jennifer and Jake spoke their vows beneath a full arrangements of brilliant white hydrangea blossoms.
The reception was held under a large white tent situated on the perfectly manicured green lawns outdoors. Sheer panels were draped around the sides of the tent and billowed in the evening breeze. A long Viking-style table with exposed wood and mahogany chivari chairs sat under the tent as the wedding party table, while smaller guests tables were draped in a muted blue-green hue and dispersed around the tent. Centerpieces of a variety of blooms including dahlias, tulips and hydrangeas in clear glass vases were created by Events by Nouveau in the muted palette of the wedding day, while larger full arrangements including all the gorgeous blooms decorated the round guest tables and sat in ornate carved wood vessels. Powder blue napkins sat at each place setting with fan reception programs in white with writing in cobalt ink matching the design of the couple's invitations from Mag & Mimi. A stunning crystal chandelier with colored glass hung above the pretty three tier cake adorned with sugar gardenia blossoms created by Confections on the Coast. For more images and details from Jennifer and Jake's seaside wedding, visit the Pure 7 Studios blog!
Credits:
Photography: Pure 7 Studios. Wedding Coordinator: Carillon Weddings. Hair and Makeup: Two Fishes Artistry. Gown: The Bride Room. Groom and Groomsmen Attire: JoS. A. Bank. Paper Goods: Mag & Mimi Designs. Ceremony Music: Bay Arts String Trio. Caterer: Townsend Catering. Florist: Events by Nouveau. Reception Music: Rendezvous. Cake: Confections on the Coast.
The reception was held under a large white tent situated on the perfectly manicured green lawns outdoors. Sheer panels were draped around the sides of the tent and billowed in the evening breeze. A long Viking-style table with exposed wood and mahogany chivari chairs sat under the tent as the wedding party table, while smaller guests tables were draped in a muted blue-green hue and dispersed around the tent. Centerpieces of a variety of blooms including dahlias, tulips and hydrangeas in clear glass vases were created by Events by Nouveau in the muted palette of the wedding day, while larger full arrangements including all the gorgeous blooms decorated the round guest tables and sat in ornate carved wood vessels. Powder blue napkins sat at each place setting with fan reception programs in white with writing in cobalt ink matching the design of the couple's invitations from Mag & Mimi. A stunning crystal chandelier with colored glass hung above the pretty three tier cake adorned with sugar gardenia blossoms created by Confections on the Coast. For more images and details from Jennifer and Jake's seaside wedding, visit the Pure 7 Studios blog!
Credits:
Photography: Pure 7 Studios. Wedding Coordinator: Carillon Weddings. Hair and Makeup: Two Fishes Artistry. Gown: The Bride Room. Groom and Groomsmen Attire: JoS. A. Bank. Paper Goods: Mag & Mimi Designs. Ceremony Music: Bay Arts String Trio. Caterer: Townsend Catering. Florist: Events by Nouveau. Reception Music: Rendezvous. Cake: Confections on the Coast.
9.03.2010
Fresh: Eat, Pray, Love Collection Giveaway!
If merely watching the film adaptation of Eat, Pray, Love wasn't enough for you, know immerse your senses with Fresh's Eat, Pray, Love limited edition collection of fragrances. Inspired by author, Elizabeth Gilbert's journey through Italy, India and Indonesia these sweet smelling scents feature an array of beautiful fragrant notes including vanilla, caramel, jasmine and sandalwood. The limited edition collection includes three separate eau de parfum fragrances and a candle trio all dressed in gorgeous packaging to celebrate the movie's voyage across the world. The limited edition collection is already sold out on Fresh.com, but we have two sets of the entire limited edition collection to offer two very lucky readers!
To win a set of the Eat, Pray Love candle and fragrance trio from Fresh, leave a comment on this post telling us what scent you'd love to bottle up in an eau de parfum fragrance and why. Whether it's the smell of your favorite vacation spot or a childhood memory we want to know. We'll randomly draw two winners from all the comments and announce the winners on Friday, September 17th at noon. Good Luck!
To win a set of the Eat, Pray Love candle and fragrance trio from Fresh, leave a comment on this post telling us what scent you'd love to bottle up in an eau de parfum fragrance and why. Whether it's the smell of your favorite vacation spot or a childhood memory we want to know. We'll randomly draw two winners from all the comments and announce the winners on Friday, September 17th at noon. Good Luck!
Upper French Winner!
And the winner of the bowtie from Upper French is...
KellyLee who wrote the following comment:
"My husband's signature look when shooting weddings is a bowtie but never with such great colors as these. I can see him wearing the Big Papa with pride. Love these!"
Congratulations KellyLee and thank you so much for sharing your comment!
Send an email to editor@weddingsunveiledmagazine.com and we'll hook you up with Upper French designer Koko Quisenberry to select your beautiful new bowtie!
KellyLee who wrote the following comment:
"My husband's signature look when shooting weddings is a bowtie but never with such great colors as these. I can see him wearing the Big Papa with pride. Love these!"
Congratulations KellyLee and thank you so much for sharing your comment!
Send an email to editor@weddingsunveiledmagazine.com and we'll hook you up with Upper French designer Koko Quisenberry to select your beautiful new bowtie!
Real {Destination} Wedding ~ Mindy and Mark
We loved the gorgeous images of Mindy and Mark driving out to the Las Vegas desert in Mark's dad's newly restored vintage car, then when Oakstream Photography sent us the rest of the amazing images from the couple's day of celebration we just fell in love even more. From a wedding at Temple to a ring ceremony, Chinese tea ceremony and reception Mindy and Mark's day was filled with cultural and religious traditions. Mindy wore a beautiful Vera Wang gown with lace bodice and softly tucked skirt that was paired with a delicate lace bolero jacket and a pair of nude pumps with bow detail matching the bow around her waist. Her bridesmaids all wore different dresses in a muted palette of grays and nude, while the groomsmen dressed in slate gray three piece suits with black button downs and a vest and tie in Champagne.
The couple first exchanged vows in a Mormon ceremony at the Las Vegas Temple followed by a ring ceremony outdoors. Mindy carried a blooming all white bouquet of cascading dendrobium orchids, calla lilies and roses, while the bridesmaids carried smaller bouquets of hypericum berries and hydrangea. Mindy and Mark stood in front of a canopy draped with a curtain of white lilies as they exchanged rings in front of their family and friends. The reception was held at Mark's parents home in Las Vegas and designed in a palette of crisp white and vibrant citrus green. Situated on the tennis court, guest tables were draped with white linens and paired with white garden chairs making the only pop of color come from the arrangements created by Enchanted Florist. Arrangements of bamboo in tall cylindrical vases wrapped with palm leaves and topped with a full hydrangea blossom and trailing amaranthus decorated the tables along with a variety of other smaller arrangements mixed with citrus. Seating arrangements were created around the court with padded woven wicker outdoor furniture with cushions of vibrant chartreuse. White paper lanterns lined the walls and provided festive lighting as the night drew dark and at the end of the night after a quick wardrobe change Mindy and Mark made their way through a shower of confetti into their vintage getaway car. To see more of Mindy and Mark's Las Vegas celebration, visit the Oakstream Photography blog!
Credits:
Photography: Oakstream Photography. Temple: Las Vegas Temple. Ring Ceremony: Vintner's Grill. Florist: Enchanted Florist. Cake: Gimme Some Sugar. Caterer: Sisie's Catering. Wedding Coordinator: Mitzie Coffey. DJ: D. Jays Entertainment. Reception Venue: Whiting Residence.
The couple first exchanged vows in a Mormon ceremony at the Las Vegas Temple followed by a ring ceremony outdoors. Mindy carried a blooming all white bouquet of cascading dendrobium orchids, calla lilies and roses, while the bridesmaids carried smaller bouquets of hypericum berries and hydrangea. Mindy and Mark stood in front of a canopy draped with a curtain of white lilies as they exchanged rings in front of their family and friends. The reception was held at Mark's parents home in Las Vegas and designed in a palette of crisp white and vibrant citrus green. Situated on the tennis court, guest tables were draped with white linens and paired with white garden chairs making the only pop of color come from the arrangements created by Enchanted Florist. Arrangements of bamboo in tall cylindrical vases wrapped with palm leaves and topped with a full hydrangea blossom and trailing amaranthus decorated the tables along with a variety of other smaller arrangements mixed with citrus. Seating arrangements were created around the court with padded woven wicker outdoor furniture with cushions of vibrant chartreuse. White paper lanterns lined the walls and provided festive lighting as the night drew dark and at the end of the night after a quick wardrobe change Mindy and Mark made their way through a shower of confetti into their vintage getaway car. To see more of Mindy and Mark's Las Vegas celebration, visit the Oakstream Photography blog!
Credits:
Photography: Oakstream Photography. Temple: Las Vegas Temple. Ring Ceremony: Vintner's Grill. Florist: Enchanted Florist. Cake: Gimme Some Sugar. Caterer: Sisie's Catering. Wedding Coordinator: Mitzie Coffey. DJ: D. Jays Entertainment. Reception Venue: Whiting Residence.
9.02.2010
Mitchell & Dent
We always {heart} pretty paper goods, so when we found out about Australian stationery company Mitchell & Dent we were smitten. Mesdames Mitchell and Dent offer a gorgeous selection of wedding stationery from ready-to-wed suites to letterpress and bespoke for the bride looking for that vintage design or a one-of-a-kind piece. Their playful and whimsical designs are the perfect way to set the tone for your wedding day and with so many color choices and designs its easy to find a stationery suite to personify your personalities. We've included a few of our favorite designs from Mesdames Mitchell and Dent, but visit the Mitchell & Dent website to see their entire wedding stationery collection along with their line of prints and artwork fit for the most stylish of homes.
Real Wedding ~ Erin and Larry
Erin and Larry were married in a stylish affair in Austin, Texas photographed by Q Weddings at the spectacular Mediterranean style villa Laguna Gloria, built in 1916 and now home to the Austin Museum of Art. The event was designed in a sophisticated palette of brilliant white, warm olive and purples ranging from a deep aubergine to vibrant orchid. Erin looking stunning in her chic silk charmeuse Jenny Packham gown with deep beaded v-neck and ornate embellishment at the natural waist line that draped her figure perfectly. She paired the gorgeous gown with a pair of deep aubergine peep toe sued Mary Janes from Christian Louboutin and beautiful vintage snake cuff, while Larry wore a black suit paired with a white button down and lavender silk tie.
With the help the amazing design team of florist David Kurio, Kurant Events and Townsley Designs the venue was transformed into an elegant and sophisticated space. A mixture of clear and brilliant white draped tents were situated adjacent to the villa covering the terraces. Magnificent crystal chandeliers were suspended from the tent ceiling by ropes covered in lushes blooms. Guest tables were draped in crisp white linens and paired with silver chivari chairs, while colorful centerpieces of orchids, roses, hydrangea and moss in the stunning event palette adorned the tables. Dramatic arrangements of citrus spider mums, purple orchids along with roses and deep plum calla lilies sat in tall cylindrical vases decorating the buffet tables. Lounge seating arrangements of modern mirrored glass tables paired with chic white padded seating and bold accents of aubergine and olive pillows were created indoors and outdoors. Patterned lighting from Ilios Lighting adorned the walls of the villa and striking colored lighting washed over the white tents as the night progressed into an evening of celebration. To see more of Erin and Larry's exquisite wedding details, visit the Q Weddings blog!
Credits:
Photography: Q Weddings. Venue: Laguna Gloria. Gown: Jenny Packham. Shoes: Christian Louboutin. Florist: David Kurio. Caterer: Kurant Events. Decor: Townsley Designs. Rentals: Marquee. Lighting: Ilios Lighting. Photobooth: boothBOOTH. Espresso Bar: Johnny Beans. Band: George Carver.
With the help the amazing design team of florist David Kurio, Kurant Events and Townsley Designs the venue was transformed into an elegant and sophisticated space. A mixture of clear and brilliant white draped tents were situated adjacent to the villa covering the terraces. Magnificent crystal chandeliers were suspended from the tent ceiling by ropes covered in lushes blooms. Guest tables were draped in crisp white linens and paired with silver chivari chairs, while colorful centerpieces of orchids, roses, hydrangea and moss in the stunning event palette adorned the tables. Dramatic arrangements of citrus spider mums, purple orchids along with roses and deep plum calla lilies sat in tall cylindrical vases decorating the buffet tables. Lounge seating arrangements of modern mirrored glass tables paired with chic white padded seating and bold accents of aubergine and olive pillows were created indoors and outdoors. Patterned lighting from Ilios Lighting adorned the walls of the villa and striking colored lighting washed over the white tents as the night progressed into an evening of celebration. To see more of Erin and Larry's exquisite wedding details, visit the Q Weddings blog!
Credits:
Photography: Q Weddings. Venue: Laguna Gloria. Gown: Jenny Packham. Shoes: Christian Louboutin. Florist: David Kurio. Caterer: Kurant Events. Decor: Townsley Designs. Rentals: Marquee. Lighting: Ilios Lighting. Photobooth: boothBOOTH. Espresso Bar: Johnny Beans. Band: George Carver.
9.01.2010
E Session ~ Megan and Seth
The moment we spotted Megan and Seth's engagement session from Olivia Griffin Photography we were totally smitten. From Megan's sweet floral print dress she paired with cowboy boots, belt and pretty floral headband to Seth's khaki pants, suspenders and newsboy cap we love how this adorable couple styled their shoot. Spending a gorgeous afternoon on the rocks and in the water with the addition of a few props including a gold ampersand and colorful bouquet of balloons the images turned out absolutely lovely. Some of our favorites are the series of images of the couple playing on the wrought iron bed situated in the middle of the backyard of Megan's parent's home. To see more from Megan and Seth's engagement session, visit the Olivia Griffin Photography blog!
Lucia|Paul Design ~ Tampa, FL
Having spent her life surrounded by creativity with parents both in the art and design world it was hard for Anna Lucia Richardson, owner of Lucia Paul Design, to not fall in love with the world of design. After graduating with a degree in Business and Marketing and working in the retail industry she came to the realization that event design was her true passion and opened Lucia Paul Design in 2007. Now headquartered in Tampa, FL their consistent success, high regard to detail and professionalism has made Lucia Paul Design one of the premier wedding and event planning design companies. Read on to learn more about Anna Lucia Richardson, the talented owner and designer of Lucia Paul Design.
Lucia Paul Design is based in Tampa, FL but is available for events worldwide. To contact LuciaPaul Design visit the company website by clicking here or call 888.815.5478.
Weddings Unveiled: Tell us a little bit about Lucia Paul Design.
Anna Lucia Richardson: LUCIA PAUL DESIGN is a wedding and event planning and event design firm for clients who expect the absolute best in service and detail. Headquartered in Tampa, Florida, we work with clients throughout the United States and the Caribbean, with the most recent projects being in Florida, Michigan, Connecticut and New York.
At LUCIA PAUL DESIGN, wedding and event planning and design is our passion. Through our innovative design and flawless presentation, we incorporate a distinctive look and feel into every event. From the planning stages to the execution, no matter what your planning or design needs, LUCIA PAUL DESIGN will provide you with personalized service to ensure success.
We approach each wedding and event with a fresh perspective, because our reputation depends on creating specialized, memorable events that reflect your taste and sensibility. We promise that all our clients will achieve their goals by guaranteeing the utmost attention to detail and the highest level of dedication.
Consistent success, a high-regard to detail and professionalism makes LUCIA PAUL DESIGN the premier wedding and event planning and design company.
WU: How did you become an event designer? When and how did you begin Lucia Paul Design?
ALR: I began in an interesting manner…by default. My degree is in Business and Marketing, from Stetson University, but my desire fueled by my passion in design. I grew up with an artistically inclined family that has fostered my interest and enthusiasm in the world of design and architecture. My Mom is a jewelry designer and an award winning interior decorator, my father and brother are award winning custom homebuilders, and my father’s cousin is a world-renowned artist who is commonly referred to as the “Father of Caribbean Impressionism.” Even as a child, I was eager to sit in my father’s architecture meetings… not your typical “hobby” for a 10 year old, but I loved watching his amazing architects draft gorgeous designs. The creativity that came out of moments like these have stayed with me and strongly influenced my drive towards a career based upon design inspiration.
I started Lucia Paul Design almost four years ago. Originally, we were based in Michigan, but in 2009 we moved our headquarters to Florida in an effort to expand our repertoire. My background with events began in the corporate event realm. After graduating from college, I began working in the Retail industry on a path to become a Buyer, but I soon realized that I wanted greater artistic freedom. Shortly thereafter, I had the opportunity to work for a large real estate development company as a Marketing Assistant, and before long turned into a position as the Marketing and Event Coordinator. While planning all of the company’s corporate events throughout Florida, I realized that I had found my niche and something that I loved: event planning. Then in early 2007, I moved from Florida to Michigan, where I had the opportunity to open my own event planning and design firm…and that’s when LuciaPaul Design was born! I’ve never looked back and can honestly say that this is truly what I love to do.
WU: Tell us about how you work with engaged couples, whether as a team or individually.
ALR: I must first note that we have the most amazing team and Lucia Paul Design wouldn’t be what it is without them. We work as a team and this shows in the service that we provide. Before we even begin the planning and design process, we do an extensive series of consultations, which allow us to better understand who the couple is and their anticipations for the event so that we can best customize a design that fits the couple’s aesthetic and aspirations. We believe that each couple is unique and their wedding should not only be a beautiful event but also a true reflection of who they are together. Since their wedding will symbolize their first step together into their new life, it should be an incredible experience for the couple.
WU: Describe your wedding style.
ALR: Classic and timeless with a touch of modern eclectic.
WU: What inspires you?
ALR: People and everyday life. In our industry, there is a plethora of inspiration, so sometimes you don’t have to look that far. There are so many interesting and talented people all around us each and every day. I love to absorb every conversation with each person that I am blessed to meet. Everyday life is inspiring due to its constant evolution and surprises. There is always something new whether a challenge, a fight, a crush, a first love, a culture, a color, a flower, a design, a passion…always something. While inspiration constantly surrounds us, it’s what you do with that inspiration that will make you great.
WU: How do you keep your ideas fresh?
ALR: I work hard on keeping my ideas fresh (and making sure my team does the same) by making sure that we don’t get lazy by falling into the trap of taking the easiest route. Our team is constantly looking for new inspirations and keeping up-to-date on trends, so that we are not recycling ideas. Sadly, I often hear of brides who hired their friend’s wedding planner only to be disappointed after receiving the same wedding design. We go above and beyond to ensure that each wedding design is just as unique as the couple. You are only as good as your next client, and it’s important to remember that.
WU: What was your favorite wedding and why?
ALR: This is a tough one, because I have been fortunate enough to work with so many wonderful clients! So if I had to choose one, it would be the first wedding that I ever planned and designed, because it launched my dream into a reality. Always remember where you started!
On a side note, the most challenging wedding we did (so far) was one where we custom built a church, modeled after an ancient Celtic church, inside a ballroom. That was pretty amazing!
WU: What makes Lucia Paul Design different from other wedding and event designers?
ALR: Our level of customer service and the variety of services that we offer to our clients. We are a quality over quantity company, which allows us to provide an unprecedented level of customized service that each client deserves. Our clients hire us because they understand and appreciate our value, experience, and dedication to their wedding or event. We not only help our clients define their overall design vision, but we also focus a great deal on logistics, execution, and follow-through with every element of the process. The LuciaPaul team works tirelessly to ensure that no detail, no matter how great or small, is ever overlooked.
WU: What would be your ideal wedding assignment or dream wedding to design?
ALR: A wedding where a client provides us with the details that they want for their dream wedding, but then turns it over to us completely and entrusts us with creative freedom to make it something fabulous. I must say that we have been very fortunate to have this happen with a number of our clients. It is an amazing experience and so fulfilling when the client walks into the room for the first time and they are speechless. That’s when we know we’ve succeeded and did a job well done. Best dream (to reality) ever!
WU: Tell us three things you can't live without.
ALR: I only get three? Well, can I break them into two categories? My first, and most important three, aren’t physical or materialistic things.
1. Love: It’s not always easy and sometimes can lead to heartbreak; but I have so much of it inside of me that if I couldn’t share it, then I think I would go mad.
2. Family: I am so blessed to have the most amazing and supportive family in the world. I wouldn’t be who or where I am without them. Included in my family is the one true love of my life…yes, I am a sap.
3. Faith: It’s how I make it through each and every day.
My second group of three, well actually four, is fun things I just adore.
1. Annick Goutal’s Eau d’Hadrien: the scent that the love of my life wears. I love that it’s for men and women…sometimes I sneak a little spritz as I am running out the door. He’s only caught me once!
2. Books: Currently I am absorbed in three, mainly because I can’t make up my mind. They are The Help by Katheryn Stockett, Tribes by Seth Godin, and The Balthazar Cookbook by Keith McNally, Riad Nasr & Lee Hanson. I know, I know…does a cookbook really count? It’s from my favorite restaurant in NYC, and it’s loaded with delectable recipes and the most intriguing Forward.
3. My Passport and a bottle of Châteaneuf du Pape. My passport because it can take me anywhere in the world. The Châteaneuf du Pape because it’s simply delicious.
WU: What is the best advice anyone has ever given you?
ALR: First, always forgive. Second, always be humble. Third, always be gracious.
WU: What is the best advice you can give to an engaged couple?
ALR: Never lose sight of what your wedding day is truly about: representing your love for each other. All too often I see couples that become too wrapped up in the details that they tend to forget why they are getting married. The most brilliant weddings that we do are for clients who are so completely enamored with one another that it becomes reflected in every element of their wedding day.
Lucia Paul Design is based in Tampa, FL but is available for events worldwide. To contact LuciaPaul Design visit the company website by clicking here or call 888.815.5478.
Weddings Unveiled: Tell us a little bit about Lucia Paul Design.
Anna Lucia Richardson: LUCIA PAUL DESIGN is a wedding and event planning and event design firm for clients who expect the absolute best in service and detail. Headquartered in Tampa, Florida, we work with clients throughout the United States and the Caribbean, with the most recent projects being in Florida, Michigan, Connecticut and New York.
At LUCIA PAUL DESIGN, wedding and event planning and design is our passion. Through our innovative design and flawless presentation, we incorporate a distinctive look and feel into every event. From the planning stages to the execution, no matter what your planning or design needs, LUCIA PAUL DESIGN will provide you with personalized service to ensure success.
We approach each wedding and event with a fresh perspective, because our reputation depends on creating specialized, memorable events that reflect your taste and sensibility. We promise that all our clients will achieve their goals by guaranteeing the utmost attention to detail and the highest level of dedication.
Consistent success, a high-regard to detail and professionalism makes LUCIA PAUL DESIGN the premier wedding and event planning and design company.
WU: How did you become an event designer? When and how did you begin Lucia Paul Design?
ALR: I began in an interesting manner…by default. My degree is in Business and Marketing, from Stetson University, but my desire fueled by my passion in design. I grew up with an artistically inclined family that has fostered my interest and enthusiasm in the world of design and architecture. My Mom is a jewelry designer and an award winning interior decorator, my father and brother are award winning custom homebuilders, and my father’s cousin is a world-renowned artist who is commonly referred to as the “Father of Caribbean Impressionism.” Even as a child, I was eager to sit in my father’s architecture meetings… not your typical “hobby” for a 10 year old, but I loved watching his amazing architects draft gorgeous designs. The creativity that came out of moments like these have stayed with me and strongly influenced my drive towards a career based upon design inspiration.
I started Lucia Paul Design almost four years ago. Originally, we were based in Michigan, but in 2009 we moved our headquarters to Florida in an effort to expand our repertoire. My background with events began in the corporate event realm. After graduating from college, I began working in the Retail industry on a path to become a Buyer, but I soon realized that I wanted greater artistic freedom. Shortly thereafter, I had the opportunity to work for a large real estate development company as a Marketing Assistant, and before long turned into a position as the Marketing and Event Coordinator. While planning all of the company’s corporate events throughout Florida, I realized that I had found my niche and something that I loved: event planning. Then in early 2007, I moved from Florida to Michigan, where I had the opportunity to open my own event planning and design firm…and that’s when LuciaPaul Design was born! I’ve never looked back and can honestly say that this is truly what I love to do.
WU: Tell us about how you work with engaged couples, whether as a team or individually.
ALR: I must first note that we have the most amazing team and Lucia Paul Design wouldn’t be what it is without them. We work as a team and this shows in the service that we provide. Before we even begin the planning and design process, we do an extensive series of consultations, which allow us to better understand who the couple is and their anticipations for the event so that we can best customize a design that fits the couple’s aesthetic and aspirations. We believe that each couple is unique and their wedding should not only be a beautiful event but also a true reflection of who they are together. Since their wedding will symbolize their first step together into their new life, it should be an incredible experience for the couple.
WU: Describe your wedding style.
ALR: Classic and timeless with a touch of modern eclectic.
WU: What inspires you?
ALR: People and everyday life. In our industry, there is a plethora of inspiration, so sometimes you don’t have to look that far. There are so many interesting and talented people all around us each and every day. I love to absorb every conversation with each person that I am blessed to meet. Everyday life is inspiring due to its constant evolution and surprises. There is always something new whether a challenge, a fight, a crush, a first love, a culture, a color, a flower, a design, a passion…always something. While inspiration constantly surrounds us, it’s what you do with that inspiration that will make you great.
WU: How do you keep your ideas fresh?
ALR: I work hard on keeping my ideas fresh (and making sure my team does the same) by making sure that we don’t get lazy by falling into the trap of taking the easiest route. Our team is constantly looking for new inspirations and keeping up-to-date on trends, so that we are not recycling ideas. Sadly, I often hear of brides who hired their friend’s wedding planner only to be disappointed after receiving the same wedding design. We go above and beyond to ensure that each wedding design is just as unique as the couple. You are only as good as your next client, and it’s important to remember that.
WU: What was your favorite wedding and why?
ALR: This is a tough one, because I have been fortunate enough to work with so many wonderful clients! So if I had to choose one, it would be the first wedding that I ever planned and designed, because it launched my dream into a reality. Always remember where you started!
On a side note, the most challenging wedding we did (so far) was one where we custom built a church, modeled after an ancient Celtic church, inside a ballroom. That was pretty amazing!
WU: What makes Lucia Paul Design different from other wedding and event designers?
ALR: Our level of customer service and the variety of services that we offer to our clients. We are a quality over quantity company, which allows us to provide an unprecedented level of customized service that each client deserves. Our clients hire us because they understand and appreciate our value, experience, and dedication to their wedding or event. We not only help our clients define their overall design vision, but we also focus a great deal on logistics, execution, and follow-through with every element of the process. The LuciaPaul team works tirelessly to ensure that no detail, no matter how great or small, is ever overlooked.
WU: What would be your ideal wedding assignment or dream wedding to design?
ALR: A wedding where a client provides us with the details that they want for their dream wedding, but then turns it over to us completely and entrusts us with creative freedom to make it something fabulous. I must say that we have been very fortunate to have this happen with a number of our clients. It is an amazing experience and so fulfilling when the client walks into the room for the first time and they are speechless. That’s when we know we’ve succeeded and did a job well done. Best dream (to reality) ever!
WU: Tell us three things you can't live without.
ALR: I only get three? Well, can I break them into two categories? My first, and most important three, aren’t physical or materialistic things.
1. Love: It’s not always easy and sometimes can lead to heartbreak; but I have so much of it inside of me that if I couldn’t share it, then I think I would go mad.
2. Family: I am so blessed to have the most amazing and supportive family in the world. I wouldn’t be who or where I am without them. Included in my family is the one true love of my life…yes, I am a sap.
3. Faith: It’s how I make it through each and every day.
My second group of three, well actually four, is fun things I just adore.
1. Annick Goutal’s Eau d’Hadrien: the scent that the love of my life wears. I love that it’s for men and women…sometimes I sneak a little spritz as I am running out the door. He’s only caught me once!
2. Books: Currently I am absorbed in three, mainly because I can’t make up my mind. They are The Help by Katheryn Stockett, Tribes by Seth Godin, and The Balthazar Cookbook by Keith McNally, Riad Nasr & Lee Hanson. I know, I know…does a cookbook really count? It’s from my favorite restaurant in NYC, and it’s loaded with delectable recipes and the most intriguing Forward.
3. My Passport and a bottle of Châteaneuf du Pape. My passport because it can take me anywhere in the world. The Châteaneuf du Pape because it’s simply delicious.
WU: What is the best advice anyone has ever given you?
ALR: First, always forgive. Second, always be humble. Third, always be gracious.
WU: What is the best advice you can give to an engaged couple?
ALR: Never lose sight of what your wedding day is truly about: representing your love for each other. All too often I see couples that become too wrapped up in the details that they tend to forget why they are getting married. The most brilliant weddings that we do are for clients who are so completely enamored with one another that it becomes reflected in every element of their wedding day.
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