Evenings with TW - Part 2

www.trinidadweddings.com held its 2^nd Annual Evenings with TW event on January 29, 2015 at the House of Angostura. 

The intention, for the second year running was to provide a forum for wedding and event professionals to network with each other in a relaxed setting.

 

Melissa Besson from The House of Angostura

Simone Sant-Ghuran, Manager/Founder of www.trinidadweddings.com welcomed guests and introduced Melissa Besson, Hospitality Manager at the House of Angostura (above), who gave attendees information on Angostura’s bar services and venue rental facilities.

There was a full house of entrepreneurs and creatives from the wedding and event services industry; and they had a fabulous time networking and socializing with each other!

 

 

Feature speaker, Life Coach - Nigel Wall (see below) took attendees on an inspirational journey on how to tap into their infinite potential.

Guests got to participate in an interactive game on the best practices of entrepreneurial legends. Here’s the winning trio:

 

The winners of the networking game congratulated by Simone Sant-Ghuran, Manager/Founder www.trinidadweddings.com (3rd from left)

There was even a “Get Social” prize which went to photographer Paul Christopher from Walk on Water Photography who used the hashtag #EveningswithTW first, in social media posts before the event.

 

Paul Christopher receiving his prize from Simone Sant-Ghuran, Manager/Founder www.trinidadweddings.com. Photo by Aarti Gosine

Hors d’oeuvres of stuffed baby potatoes, vegetable kabobs, salmon-filled cucumber cups, lamb meatballs, chicken kabobs and tres leches cake, were provided by Les Bourgeois Gourmet Catering.

Photo by Aarti Gosine

Guests sampled prosecco, wines and Daily’s cocktail mixes from Angostura.

There was also local liqueur by Deckie’s Liqueurs in enticing flavours such as: coconut, guava and passion fruit to name a few.

A selection of Deckie's Liqueurs. Photo by Aarti Gosine

The evening ended off on a sweet note too! 

Every guest received a gift of Gina’s Chocolates’ heart-shaped “Razzledazzle” – a dark chocolate shell with a filling of organic raspberries, oranges and white chocolate 

( see below)

Lime.tt sponsored photography and media coverage for the event. 

CLICK here for full event photos from Lime.tt

Are you a wedding vendor/event professional  who would like to attend our next networking event? 

Email us at contactus@trinidadweddings.com and request to be put on our mailing list.  We’d love to see you there!

Jennifer Goberdhan's Wedding & Event Design Showcase

“Everything in business happens at just the right time,” so says Jennifer Goberdhan, Wedding Designer extraordinaire; and you know what? She’s certainly right!

 June 15, 2013 was exactly “that right time”-  a day which Jennifer chose to host her Wedding & Event Design Showcase at the Trinidad Hilton.

I stopped by just after lunch, to chat with Jennifer and find out more about her designs.

Jennifer has had extensive training abroad, and has worked closely with Preston Bailey, who’s one of the most prestigious names in the global wedding industry.

She has an eye for being tasteful and restrained yet dramatic – and that’s a difficult combination to come by!

To top it all off, Jennifer has a warm, winning personality. It’s the type of persona that can immediately put couples at ease, knowing that their dream vision for décor, will materialize under her capable hands.

Above, to the top right, is a peek at some of my favourites from her Showcase.

To contact Jennifer, please visit this link: http://www.trinidadweddings.com/index.php?option=com_supplier&id=8999&catid=43&layout=supplierdetails&Itemid=2

The 2013 TW Wed-Zine Magazine is here!

Our latest issue of the TW Wed-Zine magazine is finally here.

We love that just-off-the-press smell wafting around our office and we can't wait to share our mag with you!

To pre-order your copy, please email contactus@trinidadweddings.com and quote the code PREORDER. Once you do, we will send you guidelines on how to purchase our magazine safely & securely from our website, www.trinidadweddings.com

Cost is US$5.50

P.S. Did you know our gorgeous cover photo was taken in Tobago?

Photo by: Celeste Hart.

A Groom’s Ring Guide

From classic to the dramatic! Tastes in engagement rings span a wide spectrum of choices. So it’s easy to see why a groom can become slightly overwhelmed.

Some couples prefer to go ring shopping together. This is particularly so if the bride is very specific on her likes and dislikes. However, if this is a solo job for the groom-to-be, it means having to do some research on her preferences for diamond cut, gemstone colour, diamond size, ring settings and type of metal (gold, white gold, rose gold, platinum etc.)

Here are some tips when choosing an engagement ring:

1.  Setting your budget – The majority of grooms spend about 10-15% of their annual income on the engagement ring. Of course, this varies, but it is important to have a price range in mind before you venture out ring shopping.

2.   Use her existing ring styles as a starting point – This can clue you in on her style; for example, some brides feel it may be better to be demure and understated with their jewellery choices, others feel quite the opposite! Observe whether her rings are more simple or more ornate or whether they are more antique or more modern.

3.  Know her ring size– The last thing you would want to happen is to try to propose with a ring that just won’t fit her finger! It is much better to err on the side of the ring being a bit larger, since then, it is easier to re-size. A good tip is to place one of her rings on your pinky finger and make a mental note of where it stops or if you can manage it, without her seeing, trace the inside of one of her rings on paper.

4.  Research what diamond cut she prefers – Modern brides have many choices in terms of diamond cuts. The most popular one is the traditional round cut (circular diamond). However, others are also gaining in popularity such as the “emerald” cut (rectangular), the “princess” cut (square-shaped), the “marquise” (which looks like a teardrop that is pointy on both ends) and the “pear” (teardrop). |

5.  Colour – Clear diamonds are the favourite of the majority of women. However, some more unconventional ladies may not mind a coloured gemstone at all. Popular colours now are pink and yellow diamonds and even sapphires, after the fashion of the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton’s ring.

6.  Find out the store’s policy – Be sure to ask the jeweler about the policy on returns and refunds and also about repairs, adjustments and diamond upgrades.

For more articles & tips, join us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/trinidadweddings or visit our website http://www.trinidadweddings.com

 

 

TrinidadWeddings.com...giving a voice to "solopreneurs"

One thing I’ve learned about being in the wedding industry in Trinidad and Tobago, is that in the majority, the industry consists of small to medium-sized operators or vendors; and of the small ones, there are micro-operators.

These “solopreneurs” are the ones who have taken their love of decorating, consulting and creating and made their hobbies into sideline businesses.

When I started TrinidadWeddings.com in mid-2004, one of the visions was to create a “voice” or “platform” for those very solopreneurs – the people who would never be found in their amazing niches if it wasn’t for the internet and the TW Wed-Zine magazine.

Eight years later, we are more than ever committed to finding avenues where buyers can “support local” and where our advertised vendors can get maximum value.

This is why we will be partnering with Eventuality Limited for The Ultimate Epicurean and Boutique Market on October 27 at the Crown Plaza’s Ballroom.

It’s the first installment of markets for the Holiday season and is designed to facilitate independent vendors or independent business owners who need additional opportunities to market their services through in-house promotions and on screen advertising.

Andrea Coutain, Event Developer for Eventuality Lifestyle Events says “This event is different from the other “markets” as a vendor gets more than a table; vendors are given event marketing support leading up to the event and product marketing support at the event.”

 
There will be fantastic products and sampling from the Sweet and Savory section, make-up demonstrations and products in the Wellness and Beauty section. Customers can try on fashion clothing and accessories in the Jewelry and Apparel section and get home essentials at the Home, Art and Décor section.

TrinidadWeddings.com will be there to offer advice to brides-to-be and to offer a selection of top-quality bridal jewellery, hair ornaments and sashes. TW Wed-Zine magazines and bridal emergency kits will also be on sale.

Entertainment will be provided by Peter Louis of the band Zandolee and Random Rewards to customers throughout the day.

The Ultimate Epicurean and Boutique Market is supported by TrinidadWeddings.com, Heartbeat 103.5FM – Radio for Women, Gourmet Market by XE, AVit Support and First Batch Gourmet Cookies – Homemade from Scratch.

Admission is free of charge to the public, so I hope to see you there!

For more information on this event or future events check:www.facebook.com/theultimateepicureanandboutiquemarket or email at info@eventualityltd.com

A Bride’s guide to beach weddings in Trinidad & Tobago

Photo provided through the kind courtesy of
 Liz Chung LukPat Photography
http://www.lizphotoimages.com/

 

Weddings on the seashore are something most of us can easily envision – the bride’s gauzy gown floating in the wind, the groom looking into her eyes and the ocean’s waves in the background.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the planning elements involved:



Logistics
It may be considerate of you as a host, to arrange transportation for your guests and wedding suppliers. Will it be by boat, maxi taxi, bus or car pool? Remember too, that if you’re having a wedding on a secluded beach or if it will be held in the late evening,  guests may be concerned about security for both themselves and their vehicles. It may also be a good idea to include a map of your venue, within your wedding invitation.

Amenities
Once your guests arrive, they will require restrooms, seating, garbage disposals and shady areas out of the sun. A practical solution may be to choose a hotel or venue, which features a beach front. This way, guests can retreat inside to use amenities, once you pay the requisite fees to the venue. Once dining and dancing are going to be on the agenda, be sure to erect some sort of sturdy flooring in those areas, to prevent guests’ feet from sinking into the sand. Also remember that you will have no electricity, which may pose problems for lighting and sound, unless this is planned for in advance.
 

Choosing a tented reception venue
If it is not possible to have your wedding near to a waterfront hotel or venue, you may have to opt for a tented reception venue. These have the advantage of flexibility –a tent can be erected almost anywhere (once permission/a permit has been obtained). Tents also come in varying sizes and styles and can accommodate any number of guests.

They will also work well during the dry season. However, you will have to create a comfortable environment under a tent. Therefore, you will have to think about renting portable restroom facilities, air conditioning/fans, tables, chairs, a stage, dance floor, tent walls, installing lighting and providing cooking and electrical facilities for the caterer and DJ.

Your budget may also increase, since decorators may also have to get sturdier design elements rather than lightweight decorations that would fly away or fall down with the breeze. Alternatively, you can go the affordable “au natural” way and use beach sand, sea shells, raffia, baskets and starfish as your décor!

Time of day
It may be more practical to have an early morning or a late afternoon wedding, since during the day, beaches tend to be crowded. During the day, there is an increased chance of having curious onlookers in the background of your wedding photos and unwanted sounds on your wedding video. If you are having a wedding on the beach, at night, remind your guests to bring warm clothing since it may get chilly.

How to book a beach wedding locally?

Depending on which beach you choose, you may have to write the Tourism Development Company (TDC) and ask for permission. Beaches which require permission are: Maracas, Las Cuevas, Vessigny and Manzanilla. Your letter must reach the TDC no later than one month before your wedding. There is a rental fee and a caution fee to be paid; and you will have to organize a police presence, as well as notify the Lifeguard Services Department.

Once perfectly planned, beach weddings can go without a hitch. If these issues seem too much for you to handle, a good option is to hire a wedding co-ordinator. 

For more articles, visit our website: http://www.trinidadweddings.com

Join our Facebook group: http://www.facebook.com/trinidadweddings

 

 

What’s hot in bridal shoes for 2012?

Based on a request from Disney Studios to commemorate the 50^th anniversary of Cinderella; renowned French shoe designer Christian Louboutin, was recently asked to create a modern “glass slipper.”

His stunning, final design was a lace shoe – to give the effect of transparency. The shoe was studded with crystals, two crystal butterflies and an entirely crystal encrusted heel.

The current collections of bridal shoes are now no less intricate and eye-catching. In terms of embellishments, brides are leaning towards shoes featuring: lace, bows, crystals, brooches, sequins, feathers, and ruffles.

Here are some of 2012’s top bridal shoe trends: 

Metallics – metallic shoes are “in” not only because of the glitz they bring but also because of their versatility. Pewter, bronze, silver and gold shoes can certainly be worn again after the wedding.

Prints – brides are foregoing the typical white or ivory bridal shoe for interesting prints in florals, geometric and even animal prints.

Pastels – pastel shoes are having a resurgence, perhaps because of the popularity of vintage-themed weddings. Favourite colours for shoes are: mint, lavender, blush pink, and baby blue.

Colour – the coloured bridal shoe trend has been around for the past two years. This year, a different take on colour comes from neon and with colour-blocked shoes (shoes with different bands of colour).

Cap toe shoes – these are shoes with a “cap” of metallic or a “cap” of colour or different fabric to the front of the shoe. They were first made popular by Coco Chanel.

Velvet – velvet shoes are currently the “it” shoes for bridal. Again, this type of lush fabric goes very well with weddings that have a vintage theme.  

Peep-toe platforms – these types of shoes are favoured by brides because of their comfort factor. The platforms to the front of the shoe are more comfortable than regular stilettos since feet don’t have to arch very high.

Bridal wedges – wedges are now being glamed up with crystals, pretty straps and other embellishments. They are perfect for garden weddings.

The “unconventional” – some brides are going the quirky route by choosing personalized Converse sneakers, ballet flats and custom-painted pumps. Some do-it-yourself brides are choosing to decorate their own shoes by doing hand-appliqués and applying their own crystals.  

For more wedding articles, click here: http://www.trinidadweddings.com

The proof is in the make-up!

It’s humid. The temperature is like a furnace inside your bridal gown. Then, the perspiration comes - even though you don’t want it to. Little by little, you feel the beads of foundation trickling down your face. The perspiration drops accelerate and roll into your eyes. You try to wink them away but all you get is a train track of black mascara, eyeliner and blush, all down your face.

Phew…then you wake up. It was only a wedding nightmare after all!

It may seem like a bad dream but the reality is that sometimes even the best makeup doesn’t stand a chance against our tropical climate’s humidity, wind, rain and heat. This is particularly true if you’re having an outdoor or beach wedding. Add bouts of emotion and tears to the humidity factor and you have a recipe for a streaky face and raccoon eyes.

One solution to keep that “blushing bride look,” is to use water-proof makeup - which is made with ingredients that repel water. The first step for face coverage is to ask your makeup artist for water-proof versions of: primer, concealer, foundation, setting powder and lipsticks or lip stains. Primer helps makeup go on evenly and prevents creasing and caking of your foundation.

Waterproof cream-based blushes tend to stay well-pigmented on the skin and last throughout the day. This is in contrast to powder blushes, which may need re-applications.

The eyes are the most critical area, since many brides tend to tear up or be prone to contact lens irritation. Waterproof eyeshadows, gel-based eyeliners and waterproof mascaras are good choices. Be aware though, that not all mascaras are created equal.

“Water-resistant” mascaras may not equal the staying power of water-proof mascaras. Water-resistant mascaras are good for standing up to light perspiration or minimal eye-watering. However, water-proof mascaras can go the distance of lasting throughout a shower or a swim!  If you’re wearing fake eyelash strips, it is also best to use water-proof eyelash glue.

Some make-up artists also recommend using makeup setting sprays. These are products designed to help your make-up become more water and sweat resistant. Liquid sealers are also available and are applied with a wand or brush. They work well to ensure makeup is long-wearing. However, they tend to leave a film or shine and so may not be suitable if you want to use shimmer eyeshadows and blush.

It’s important to note that rubbing can remove almost any type of waterproof makeup. Therefore, it’s best to avoid rubbing your eyes. Your makeup will last longer if you pat your face, especially with blotting papers.

After all, you need a dewy, fresh face and a pretty pucker for your “I do” kiss!

For more wedding articles, click here: http://www.trinidadweddings.com

Bridal Hair & Makeup Trends for 2012

Last year the bridal beauty watchwords were “natural and luminous.”

The emphasis was on the bride showcasing healthy, glowing skin; and there was widespread use of highlighter, bronzer or face shimmer, as well as peachy, coral or pink shades of blush.

This year, the look in bridal makeup is “romantic, feminine and retro,” with a profusion of pink and orange blush tones, pretty pastel eyes and dramatic lips.

Some trends in bridal hair and makeup trends for this year are:

Eyes - The smoky eye with the nude lip combination remains popular, however, this year, pastel eyeshadows in colours such as: lavender, mint green, pink and peach, are in vogue. These demure eye colours are being juxtaposed with false eyelashes or heavy mascara application and/or liquid eyeliner.  Alternatively, the eyes can be kept very neutral with colour enhancing the bride’s face, from a brighter choice of blush and lipstick.

Lip Colour – Many brides are going for a more “retro glam” type of makeup, preferring a neutral eye, in exchange for a deeper lip colour. These vibrant colours are replacing the nude and sheer lips of previous years. Last year’s lip “it” colours were deep mauve, cranberry, red and rose. This year, red will stay but bright pink, coral and orange-toned lips will be popular. There will be a preference of lipsticks versus lip glosses.

Hair – The most popular hairstyle for this year’s modern bride will be the chignon or ballerina bun. An embellished headband or a veil worn away from the face is a perfect complement to this hairstyle. More and more brides are choosing to wear their hair up or away from the face.

Bridal hairstyles with loose waves and soft curls will also be seen. These natural and “easy” hairstyles are a stark contrast to the formal, up-do’s of years gone by.

Brides who still favour a more structured hairstyle can choose the very vintage-like pin curls or a modern take on the “bee hive” hairdo.   

How to choose your wedding colours

This year, the Pantone Colour Institute predicts that the reigning colour at weddings will be tangerine. The last time we saw this hue so popular was in 2009, when wedding decor ran the gamut from burnt oranges to vibrant tangerines.

In 2010 there was a new-comer - the colour turquoise. At that time, it was all the rage for turquoise to be paired with chocolate brown or for a more vintage, retro effect it was combined with red or yellow. It was also popularly paired with burgundy or black for more of a modern flair and drama. The turquoise craze was followed by a pinkish-coral colour in 2011, that Pantone dubbed “Honeysuckle.”

Here’s a guide to selecting a colour scheme

1.    The location of your wedding could be a beginning point in choosing your colours, for example, if it will be held in a rustic setting or outdoors, you may choose more earthy colours to complement it. However, if it is in a hotel ballroom, you can select colours that would match with the existing décor that’s in the room.

2.    The theme of your wedding can also guide you about colour selection, for instance, if you have chosen a “nautical” theme, you can go with navy blues, crisp whites and bright reds, or if you have selected a “tropical” theme, you can choose oranges, pinks and yellows.

3.    When selecting a colour, always consider the mood you would like to create or as we say locally, what’s the “vibe” of your wedding? This is where you get to determine the mindset you would like to set for your guests – for example, ethereal and romantic? Trendy and modern? Remember that the more vivid the colours you select, the more upbeat and dramatic your wedding’s mood will seem. Colours like red, purples, oranges and yellows set a mood of fun and lend excitement. If you select milder, more muted or metallic colours, these will lend themselves to a more elegant or sophisticated ambience.  

4.    Start an inspiration board – use a bulletin board or even a paper folder and save magazine clippings or photos that inspire your wedding colour choices. Visit your local fabric stores or hardware stores and watch the paint charts, to see what colours or prints catch your eye. Then ask for swatches, so that you can add them to your inspiration board to help with your decision-making. Another great idea is to show your inspiration board to your florist, your cake artists as well as your decorator.  This will help them get a better sense of how you envision your wedding’s décor.  If you want to explore virtual inspiration boards, you can visit www.pinterest.com

5.    Choose a primary colour and one or two secondary colours. It may not be a good idea to select more than three colours because it will make your wedding palette look confused.  

6.    Be open to more unusual colour combinations or trios such as:

·         Blush pink and grey

·         Gold and teal

·         Gray, yellow, navy blue

·         Fuchsia, black and turquoise

·         Black, white and yellow

·         Plum, chocolate brown and yellow

·         Aqua, teal and yellow

·         Coral, kiwi-green and ivory

And lastly, when selecting your colours, always be yourself and don’t be afraid to break with tradition. Your guests will be delighted by a wedding that is not the “same old!” Go back to http://www.trinidadweddings.com