Bulbs.

When it comes down to it, your lighting at an event is going to be one of the most important elements.  Who cares about the decor, if you can't see it. One of things, I like to try, especially when on a budget, is having great lighting but using it as decor too. A lot of the times this can be done on your  own with some bulk purchases of Christmas lights, or Chinese lanterns. It would definitely save you money on production and AV. Lately I have been seeing less of the fairy lights, and more of an industrial look. Hanging Light bulbs, either strung across the ceiling, or hung one by one on various levels, looks so modern. It's not for everyone, but it really is very pretty. Try it out!

24 Hours.

I know that everyone that actually reads or views my blog, knows I am an event planner of sorts and I have shown some of my events on here from time to time, but I tend to just blab about things that I like. So I decided, because it's Friday, and I really don't feel like thinking, that I would show you one of my favourite annual events that I work on : The 24 Hour Relay. It's not they typical event that I talk about but it really is the best event I do all year, and its such a great time for a great cause. Check it out! And if your in Toronto next year, register a team!

Myakka.

When I'm on vacation, I like to get away from the scheduling, and the routine, and kind of just go with the flow of wherever I might find myself. That is exactly what I did in Florida. One of the places we decided to go on the way back from Venice, was check out Myakka River State Park. For only 6 bucks, you were admitted entrance to one of the most beautiful places I have ever been. The trees, and greenery are literally stunning.

Myakka Park boasts a variety of different activities such as fishing, air boat tours, canopy walks, bird watching, hiking and of course camping and picnicking. The bird walk had to be my favourite part of the whole park. It is literally just a boardwalk with a lookout point at the end, but it looks out to the most peaceful and beautiful view. I promise you won't even feel like your in Florida.

In terms of a venue, I don't suggest it for a wedding or meeting place, however for photo shoots (engagement, wedding etc. ) it would be absolutely beautiful and pretty unique. Especially if you got a gator somewhere in the background ;). If your ever down in Sarasota, please check this park out. I promise you will not be disappointed.

Go Retro.

Try out a summer, mad-menish, retro theme. Super easy to create and has a very fresh and neat look.

Check it out from Grey Likes Weddings

DIY Place Cards.

I'm very used to going to the big- sort of gaudy Italian Weddings and Retirement Parties, Birthdays etc. etc. (Trust me the list goes on) I've almost come to expect the big red heart with the #2 on it. Or the Italian Flag chocolate that barley fits your name. And these things cost money! I mean like a decent chunk of change. Why bother?

My suggestion: Make you own, it can be a fun experience for you and your bridal party or your family (dependant on the event). This way your allowed to put a little bit more of "you"into the event. The more "you"that there is the more people will enjoy themselves, and the more you will enjoy yourself.

Check out these cutie place cards, and maybe a Micheal's Craft Store or two.

Have a nice weekend!

Powel Crosley Estate.

I found the Powel Crosley Estate on a Sarasota Wedding Site, and thought it needed a bit more recognition. This 1920's Spanish-style estate sits directly in between Sarasota and Bradenton. Although the architecture may seem somewhat antique it is loaded with top of the line modern facilities, media-tech and furniture on the inside. ( Don't like the furniture? There is always furniture rental places - they actually supply you with a proffered vendor list -EASY! )

Venue rates vary, dependant on days and times, but it is very reasonable, compared to some of the places in and around Toronto. Their website goes into much more detail about liquor licenses, vendors, and catering. Check it out here.

Soft Edges.

I stumbled upon this very cute wedding, on #Stylemepretty I wasn't going to post about it, mainly because I was unsure of what to call the theme. However, it was just to sweet to pass up.

Its a little punk, but definatley combines some soft edges. Enjoy!

Video and Photography.

Ok, two posts in one night! Lucky you. This isn't exactly going to be a full post, but I have haf this website on my list of favourites for years, and I wanted to share it with you because it really is the most awesome blog/video site I have come across. Loren Brinton also known as Brinton Film Co. creates some of the most beautiful and sweet engagement and wedding videos I have ever seen.

I was very used to seeing the tacky "Wedding Singer"like videos, and was never really into the whole wedding on tape idea, however this guy makes it seem like the wonderful idea EVER!!!

Please, check out his site, and if your in the Arizona area, hire him right away!

Apology.

Would an apology even cut it? Its been almost a month since I've made promises to post about Florida. A month!! No good, I know. I will fix it, right now, and will try my hardest to not let work get in the way. Thus, as promised, my first post : Sarasota.

Restaurant: Crab and Fin

Not too long ago I spent a very relaxing and beautiful week in Sarasota. Having never been to Florida before I was a little too excited to see things and just hang out with my boyfriend.

We spent one afternoon in a beautiful part of Florida, St. Armand's Key. I'm not sure how to describe this place as it was that quaint and beautiful. We ended up stoping for dinner at what turned out to be the best meal of the whole trip.

The Crab and Fin, seafood restaurant has been serving the world's best seafood since 1978. The menu boasts a large variety of seafood and of course a few select meals for land lovers. I have to say that everything on the menu literally made your mouth water. Like drool fest..

Click here for menu.

The restaurant is quite large, and although they don't have venue rentals on their website, I am more than sure that a buy-out or portion rental would be available. They also have a wrap around patio, along the 2 sides of the restaurant that has the potential to seat about 150. Not only is the food incredible, but the space and scenery is also pretty sweet.

Note: They have an adorable piano player that takes requests! So long as you tip.