Entertaining Boston Style: “Fall” into planning an Autumn Themed Wedding!

Just engaged this past Valentine’s Day or know someone who is? If the answer is YES! (enthusiastic all caps is a must in this case) then you’ve got some planning to do: and we’re here to help inspire you. In this article, we’re focusing on fall weddings since we think autumn is the absolute best time to have a wedding in New England. Think about it- the temps are cooler (which means no sweating off your makeup before you have a chance to say “I Do”) and the foliage is spectacular.The summer heat has passed, and a fresh season with new smells and colors is emerging with new fall trends. Susan Lane Events has some great venues in mind for a fall-inspired wedding, and we’ll even give you some food for thought on how to incorporate the theme in your décor selections, menu, and entertainment!      

“Fall Orchard Frenzy” at Elm Bank

Located in the Boston suburb of Wellesley, the Massachusetts Horticultural Society’s Elm Bank is without a doubt one of the most sought after wedding venues in the area. Featuring colorful and immaculately manicured grounds, this top Massachusetts wedding venue is truly one-of-a-kind. There are many spots on the property for fantastic photo ops and the backdrop of the New England fall foliage would be just heavenly. Receptions of a smaller scale can be accommodated in the Carriage House or if you are hosting a grand affair, renting the adjoining tent on the property would be ideal. There is no fee for holding your ceremony on-site in one of the gardens so why not take advantage of that? We’re picturing colorful leaves running the aisle and bouquets of wildflowers in deep fall colors for the bridal party arrangements. Exchange your vows under a customized arch made of elegantly placed branches and twigs with matching fall-inspired floral accents such as dahilas, gold spider mums, and dark colored roses with pomegranate accents.

For your fall garden wedding, we absolutely love the idea of having cocktail hour in the gardens after the ceremony and enjoying a specialty drink of caramel apple cider martinis. A bountiful cocktail hour stationary display of fine wines and harvest cheeses, including a customized olive oil bar will surprise and delight all of your guests. Seasonal wines paired with cheeses perfect for the autumn breeze will be a wonderful beginning to a culinary journey that you’re wedding dinner is bound to be. Having trouble coming up with a fall color palette that doesn’t include brown? We’ve got you covered there! Our trend reports tell us that the 2014 Pantone Color of the Year is Radiant Orchid- a rich, crisp purple hue that pairs beautifully with gold for an elegant alternative to brown. Gold chiavari chairs and gold rimmed chargers and glassware would be so elegant in the carriage house. Some other ideas we love for this apple frenzy are listed below.

–        Looking to make your placecard and guest book table stand out? We love the idea of apple place card holders with customized tags and Thumb-print Tree Guest Books in the shape of an apple tree. For your card box, bushels from the orchard would be a great addition.

–        Stuck on favors? Our favorite apple-inspired favor is definitely apple cinnamon pancake mix with personalized maple syrups! Place them in bushel baskets near the guest book and place card tables with a sign allowing guests to “Take One!”

–        Tall centerpieces with gold bases and full, rounded arrangements are key to adding some height to your tables. Go even bigger with tall, candlesticks on top of the floral arrangement for subtle, ambient lighting. 

–        Our favorite autumn menu favorites include a starter course of harvest salad with arugula, spiced pecans, butternut squash, and cider vinaigrette and a main course of duck breast seared medium over polenta, topped with a pomegranate reduction. Hot mulled cider served with wedding cake is a must! This will be sure to warm your guests up on a cool, fall evening! 

–        Guests craving a late night snack? They always do! Servers can butler pass demitasse cups of hot apple cider and miniature cider donuts. Or, place some warm donuts by the exit with some personalized to-go bags to have later on back at the hotel!

“Rustic Autumn” at the Barn on the Crane Estate

For brides wishing to go the more casual feeling and rustic route, a barn wedding with a picturesque backdrop is ideal. We love the Barn on the Crane Estate in Ipswich because brides have their choice of a ceremony backdrop in addition to the gorgeous rustic barn: a seaside beach ceremony or a vegetable garden ceremony! The Barn itself holds up to 140 guests and features high, tile ceilings and terra cotta walls for an authentic, 19^th century rustic look. Photo ops are a must on the stone wall at the entrance to the barn, perched upon a vast landscape with stunning views of Castle Hill.

For the brides who have their heart set on a wedding by the beach, the venue can set up white garden chairs parallel to stunning ocean views. Since it is fall and the weather is bound to be on the cooler side, why not have pashminas available at the entrance to the ceremony location as a keepsake to shield guests from the autumn breeze? Servers can butler pass hot toddys or hot apple cider to keep them warm and comfortable prior to the ceremony. For this location, we love the idea of a DIY throw away confetti bar- something the guests will be sure to have fun with! Guests can fill up their confetti vessel, such as a cone, with the fillings of their choosing such as herbs (lavender, thyme, rosemary), petals, and rice. Line the aisle with beautiful mason jar filled florals tied to the seats or on standing hooks.

For the reception, cranberry and chrysanthemum centerpieces with long branches, attached with hanging votives stand out in the rustic barn. Deep colors and warm uplighting compliment the rustic color tones of the ceilings and walls in the barn which would be a perfect undertone for a late fall wedding. The menu would include something hearty such as butternut squash bisque as a first course and coffee bean crusted shortribs with harvest root vegetables for a main course. A dessert feast would follow with a homemade pie bar, s’mores station, and of course, cranberry accented wedding cake with buttercream. Here are some other fabulous ideas for this late fall soiree:

–        Apple cider sangria served in mason jars! This can be made ahead of time and served all evening along with beer and wine in lieu of a full bar.

–        Wine barrel tables for the cocktail reception displays and dessert table would be so unique!

–        Silver or clear chiavari chairs would compliment the deep red colors of the chrysanthemums perfectly. Rustic, sliver chargers would be a nice touch to add to the tables as well.

–          For favors, include mini local jams or seasonal mini-pies for guests to take home. These favors can act as placecards as well- just tie a tag on the favor and place at the entrance to the barn. Or for something extra special, include a recipe that was passed down for generations so that guests can replicate the pie authenticity at home!

 

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“Whimsical Chic” at Tower Hill Botanic Garden

A gorgeous botanical garden with multi-seasonal venues, Tower Hill in Boylston is a hidden gem with spectacular views of the rural foliage! The Orangerie is available from April until September for an early fall venue and their main gallery with an enormous fireplace is perfect for late fall and winter events. This is the perfect venue for a couple who wants the seclusion of an intimate venue while being surrounded by beautiful gardens and florals of all kinds. As one of the most romantic places in New England to propose, the Orangerie has inspired an amazing wedding style inspiration: Whimsical Chic!

Off-beat weddings and receptions have become increasingly popular in the world of event planning and we can see why: simplicity combined with authenticity is enticing. For the ceremony, a lovely perigola stands between the grass bed where you’ll exchange your vows. Decorate these beautiful pergolas with upside down parasols covered in the color of your choosing. We love the idea of the bride carrying a simple, handmade brooch bouquet down the aisle in lieu of a traditional floral bouquet. Of course at a botanical garden, we DO have to bring in the florals at some point- and the reception is the perfect place for that! Imagine out-of-the-box floral combinations in mismatched vases. Bamboo chairs and long, elegant dining tables. Wicker chargers and elegantly embroidered linen napkins will be set for dinner. Speaking of dinner, the off-beat bride will most definitely fall in love with a menu made up of entirely local, organic menu items. Our favorites include a tapas style first course with four locally inspired seasonal selections and a family style entrée course of pomegranate marinated rack of lamb with cous cous and cucumber mint sauce to accompany. We love weddings on a “whim” and came up with some great ideas for the not-so-cookie-cutter bride:

–        Our favorite “modern yet simple” trend? Baby’s breath! It can be used with literally any color combination. We love the idea of mixing baby’s breath with single buds of a variety of seasonal florals. Our #1 combination? A single rose bud mixed with baby’s breath scattered throughout the tables in coordinated, tiny black and white vases.

–        Placecards lined up in acorn filled trays and accented with a pair of birds would be a nice touch for a whimsical reception. Table numbers would match to keep the color scheme and font consistent.

–        White pumpkins and fall décor are a must here at a Tower Hill autumn wedding as the gorgeous fireplace in the venue is begging to be dressed up for fall. Keep going with the whimsical theme and add pumpkins and wooden lanterns along with hurricane candles and long branches as accents along the width of the fireplace. Add a vintage birdcage to use as a card box and some of your favorite love quotes carved on the wooden boxes or pumpkins!

–        Tie in the pumpkin idea a bit more with a pumpkin pie martini as a specialty drink! We love the delicious caramelized sugar rim!

–        With the food truck craze in and around Boston, hire one to cater to your guests for a late night snack! Our favorite late night bite is a greasy grilled cheese from Roxy’s- perfect ending to an evening of dancing!

Like what you see and want to talk fall wedding themes and venues? Contact Susan at (508) 763-1663 or email her at susan@susanlaneevents.com. For wedding planning information and a complete list of services, please visit www.susanlaneevents.com/sub/

Check out our new website!

Photo credits: Dreamlove Photography, Sarah Maller Photography, Vinwood Caterers, Caper’s Catering, Vintage Design Company, Crane Estate website

Wedding Planning Packages

Professional Wedding Day Management

The items listed below are included in all packages

• Implementation of timeline throughout Wedding Weekend
• Full management at Ceremony and Reception
• Confirmation of all vendor arrivals, ensuring timeline is adhered to throughout event
• Serving as primary resource for vendor, guest and family inquiries
• One coordinator to oversee décor set-up and another to attend to bridal party
• Visit with the Bride and Groom (separately) to tend to any last-minute needs
• Distribute bouquets to bridal party, assisting groomsmen with boutonniere pinning
• Accept all décor, floral, rental and linen deliveries
• Prepare Bride and Groom for reveal / first look
• Coordinate musical pieces and cue musicians and photographers for music selections and “must have” shots
• Prepare reception, ensuring that personal items are in place as planned
• Overall theme execution throughout reception venue
• Facilitation of table set up, guest count, ensuring floor plans are adhered to
• Arrangement of escort/place cards/menu cards
• Cue Bridal Party for next steps throughout the event
• Prepare Bridal Party and family for introductions
• Catering to Bride, Groom and immediate family members throughout entire wedding weekend … this includes certainties such as ensuring Couple eats, stays hydrated and has fun
• Distribution of final payments to all vendors at end of evening
• Gently collect all gifts and personal artifacts at conclusion of Wedding Day and load into vehicle

**** All service pricing is based upon guest count of 150

 Full Service Planning Package

You want to choose this package if time is a luxury. On average, couples will spend close to 350 hours planning their wedding. If you have limited time to devote researching, visiting sites, scheduling interviews and negotiating with prospective vendors, then this package is a perfect fit for your needs.

• Initial brainstorming session to get all your ideas on paper
• Customized planning binder for your contracts and ideas
• Venue research- rehearsal dinner, ceremony site, reception, day after brunch site
• Vendor recommendations for all categories- invitation printing companies, rental companies, photographer, videographer, caterer, musicians, floral and décor, lighting, cake, transportation, tents, officiates
• Contract management of all vendors. Track and coordinate vendor payments and due dates
• Facilitate all communication and ideas between client and vendors so that vendors know exactly what is expected of them and when. Attend vendor meetings as requested
• Create action items in timeline with deadlines for clients and coordinator to complete
• Expert advice on etiquette
• Unlimited meetings, vendor appointments, consultations, phone and email access to coordinator
• Establish a budget and guidance to stay within the budget
• Complete event design development- theme, colors, floor plans, lighting, rental items.
• Assistance with design, selection and ordering of all wedding day accessories, such as favors, welcome baskets, ceremony programs, menu cards, escort and place cards.
• Obtain and manage room blocks for guests
• Create/Circulate master timeline and contact list for event to all vendors
• Consultation on related wedding events such as rehearsal dinner, post wedding brunch
• Up to four hours ceremony rehearsal

Partial Planning Package

For the couple with the vision and enthusiasm to be more involved in the planning of their wedding, this package may be just right for you. You’ve made many of the big decisions on your own, but still want an expert eye to oversee the direction of your choices and guide you with action lists and timelines.

• Support via phone or email during regular business hours for wedding related questions and concerns.
• Up to six vendor referrals and help securing them
• Two scheduled face to face meetings up to three hours each throughout your planning process
• One ceremony and reception venue site visit with client; Attend tasting if necessary
• Vendor contract review
• Attend floral/design meetings
• Create action items in timeline with deadlines for clients and coordinator to complete
• Guidance on etiquette
• Create and distribute detailed wedding itinerary for bride/groom and all vendors
• Provide advice on final décor design and reception layout or create design plan
• Review of wedding schedule to identify any issues
• Assistance with selection and ordering of all wedding day accessories such as favors, ceremony program, menu cards, place cards, etc.
• Assistance with invitation coordination- response cards, enclosures, post wedding brunch invitations, directions, etc.
• Confirm all vendors two weeks out and reconfirm again one week prior
• Act as liaison for all wedding vendors during the week of the wedding
• Coordinate and manage ceremony rehearsal (up to two hours)
• All services under 3 months

Month of Wedding Management Package

You’ve done the lions share of the planning yourself, but during the month of and on the BIG day, you want to free yourself of how it’s all going to all come together. This package typically begins four to six weeks before your wedding.

We require that all vendors are secured and contracts are in place 30 days prior to your wedding. Once we review all of the information, we will piece together a timeline/schedule of events for your wedding weekend.

• Ceremony and reception site walk through
• One in person meeting 4-6 weeks prior to the BIG day to review all details and vendors
• Creation of detailed itinerary/timelines for you, your family, and all vendors, up to six revisions
• Contact all vendors six weeks prior to wedding date to introduce myself, offer asistance, confirm all details and arrival times
• Confirmation of all vendors 2 weeks prior to the event and again, 1 week prior to verify all service
• Complete walk through of reception and ceremony site with vendors
• Distribute final itinerary and timeline to vendors one week prior to event date
• Attend rehearsal
• Day of management; Coordinators leave after cake-cutting

 

Weddings located more than 40 minutes travel time may require additional fees to cover travel, accommodations and fuel

Contact Susan at (508) 783-1663

or email her at susan@susanlaneevents.com

When it comes to entertaining, we’ve got you covered!

Entertaining Boston Style: Goodbye 2013… cheers to a great year!

Happy New Year from Susan Lane Events! As we say goodbye to 2013 and welcome 2014, we want to thank you for reading our blog. I feel so blessed to have such a wonderful group of followers and it gives me joy to be able to share my advice, news, and recipes with you all. We had a great year over here and got to work with so many great clients on their fabulous events- from the quaint and intimate cocktail parties and birthday celebrations to the over-the-top and extravagant weddings and destination events.

We’ll be updating our website in the coming months so stay tuned to all Susan Lane Events can bring to the table. In the meantime, we’ve put together a recap of the best events in our 2013 portfolio. Take a look at the year in review:

Early in the year, we had some great winter parties.

Here are some pics from a February engagement party in Weston:

Check out the pics from a successful corporate 30^th anniversary party:

In May we planned some fun graduation parties! Check out this one which featured a food truck that provided the kids delicious cookie ice cream sandwiches. Susan Lane Events loves working with its great food truck vendors. They’re always a big hit at events!

Cookie Monstah Truck!

Our lovely staff!

At another graduation event, the menu featured customized smoothie bar featuring made-to-order healthy fruit and yogurt smoothies for a brunch-style grad party!

Smoothie Bar!

Our biggest event of the year by far was a tented wedding celebration in Weston.  With 150 guests and a South Beach theme, it was no doubt a fun time had by all. We coordinated everything from the setup logistics involving the tent and furniture rentals to the lighting/ambiance and décor. We also provided the food for the evening which included comfort food favorites, ethnic delights and decadent desserts.  Here are some of the highlights from the event: (Photos courtesy of John Kreis Photography.)

Vietnamese Spring Rolls

Mezze

Miami style Lounge

Fire-Grilled Skewers

Gobo Lights and uplights

Dessert minis

September was a busy month for us at Susan Lane Events. In addition to our large destination event for a tech company, we had a couple smaller events such as a rustic rehearsal dinner in a barn and a Kiddush luncheon at a local temple in Framingham:

Fried Green Tomato topped with Crab and Sriacha Aioli

Truffled Mushrooms on Polenta Wheel

Rustic Bar at dusk

At the end of September, Susan Lane Events and staff headed to the Cape for a corporate retreat- a real treat for us as well as for the 100+ employees and their families! They had a cocktail reception to kick off the weekend followed by a classic New England Clambake. Check out some of the pics from the successful destination event: (Photos courtesy of John Kreis Photography.)

Dinner in the Mansion Ballroom

Brie and Apple Crostini

Cocktail Hour on the Terrace

Reception Display

Mile High Apple Pie

In October we discovered a fantastic venue, the Concord Rod and Gun Club as we catered a 50^th birthday celebration. Check out photos from the venue:

Concord Rod and Gun Club

Boston Children’s Hospital had us provide the food for a post-conference reception. The menu featured tapas, Mediterranean selections, and mini comfort food favorites such as kobe beef sliders and artisan pizza bites.

In December, we were kept busy with many fabulous holiday parties! Some delicious menu offerings were provided and our staff executed the parties to perfection.  Check out pics from our December events here:

Tuna Tartare

Gnocchi Shooters

Pumpkin Curry and Tomato Basil Soup Shots

Short Rib and Cheddar Potato Martinis

Susan and staff!

Cookie Bar for the kids

“Santa” at the grill!

S’mores Bar and Cider Donuts by the fire!

Cured meats with seasonal toppings!

Thanks for reading. We look forward to another great year ahead!

Susan can be reached at (508) 783-1663 or susan@susanlaneevents.com

Entertaining Boston Style: Top Mitzvah Themes and Colors for 2014

Now that summer is over (boo), and the kids are back to school, it’s time to start thinking about your child’s upcoming bar or bat mitzvah plans. For those of you just beginning to brainstorm, Susan Lane Events has the scoop on all the hot trends for next year and beyond:

1.     Club or Lounge

For girls as well as boys, the lounge look is in style. Teens just seem to be more comfortable interacting with each other in a more casual environment- not to mention sleek! Sophisticated and unexpected elements are being used in the décor, like standing or hanging lamps, white leather couches and banquettes, and fun ottomans.

All pics Courtesy of Gold Event Planning

     2.      Name and Logo

Teens are incorporating their name into the mitzvah event theme. Many parents love the idea of using their child’s initials, or a custom motif, to create a mitzvah logo, which is used throughout the event from the invitations and centerpieces to the cake and party favors. Looking for something eye popping? How about presenting the logo with their name so that it spreads across the room in bright, neon lights- now that would make for a great “wow” factor!

            3.        Candy

Whether it be your teen’s favorite kind of candy or favorite color, there are many ways to incorporate this sweet theme. Candy centerpieces such as bouquets of giant lollipops or square vases filled with pop rocks or rock candy lining the tables, are easy and affordable options to create.

 4.           Fashion

Okay, so this one is mostly for the young ladies but nevertheless still a fun theme and all around crowd pleaser. We’re envisioning makeshift mannequin centerpieces, a mitzvah cake lined with pearls and jewels, and faux fur lined table linens. We love the idea of a runway leading into the ballroom dance floor. How’s that for a grand entrance?

 

   5.        Boston Sports Champions

Boston is known for having the best sports teams in recent history so why not showcase this in your son’s bar mitzvah theme? If he has a favorite team then let it be known to all who attend. There are many ways to incorporate this such as balloon arches filled balloons of the team’s colors, plasma screens playing snippets of games, and our personal favorite, a custom dance floor (vinyl covering) of the team’s logo!  

6.         Patterns and Fun Prints

Playful patterns like chevron, zebra, bold geometric prints and Moroccan patterns are showing up in everything from invitations to linens to GoBo lights! Coordinate your entire mitzvah design with one cohesive look and the result will be sleek and ultra chic. Flowers especially can enhance the prints. Why not add an opulent, colorful floral centerpiece to each table and put it in the spotlight! Each centerpiece can have its own dedicated spotlight to give off an elegant looking focal point. Focal points are key to pattern based themes as you want certain décor elements to be noticed over others.

        7.        Action and Superhero Themes

With all the superhero movies out in the theaters right now, it’s clear the comic book action heroes of both DC and Marvel are popular with the kids (and adults). Giant superhero logos on the walls and moving lights streaming those Batman and Superman silhouettes are just some examples on how to bring this theme to life.  We’re thinking a photobooth with fun props such as capes, masks, and shields would be a hit. Now if we can only get Superman himself to make an appearance…

       8.       Bedazzle and Bling

As Marilyn Monroe said back in the 50’s- “diamonds are a girl’s best friend.” That feeling hasn’t changed 60 years later with some. Girls today love to have their entire event decked out in rhinestones and hanging “crystals” from the tables to the bars, and from their favors to their cake. Sparkle and shine is in. Crystals, sequins and glitter will be hot for years to come.

     9.        Hobbies and Interests

Whether your teen likes to go snowboarding or paintballing or just enjoys a night out at the theater, there are many ways to highlight his or her favorite activity in the event theme. Here are some of our favorites below:

    10.       New York, New York

The Big Apple theme is hot now. Street signs, backdrops of the city’s best loved icons and skylines are some of the things you’d probably see at an NYC themed bar or bat mitzvah.

 

Some of our favorite colors for 2014: Emerald Green, Hypnotiq Blue, and Vivacious Fuchsia!

Here are some fabulous venue ideas for Bar/Bat Mitzvahs!

Space 57 @ Revere Hotel:

There is so much you can do with this space, the possibilities are endless! A true loft style layout, there is a modern feel to the space that allows room for creativity. There are built in bars in the foyer which are perfect for cocktail hour for the adults and the fun Theater space on the opposite side of the entrance for the kids. We love the built in uplights in the entrance foyer that can be set to illuminate your favorite color. Plus outside caterers are allowed here so Susan Lane Events can even provide full service catering for you in addition to event design and coordination services.

W Boston:

There’s a large and opulent foyer space with high ceilings and plenty of room to lounge.  Two completely separate spaces allow the kids and the adults to be parted if you wish, and then reconvene for the dinner portion of the evening. With dark gray carpeting and sleek black spandex linens, simplicity is key. Add a touch of any color you’d like and some gobo lights and voila!

Cure Lounge:

In the basement of the Wilbur Theater downtown lies a unique venue perfect for bar/bat mitzvahs! Bright turquoise walls and aqua accents are the colors in the front space while shiny black and gray patterns with an Asian feel are what’s in the back lounge area. Reception-style would be the way to go here with high top tables and banquettes for seating allow for a more casual feel in lieu of a traditional sit down dinner. A very fun and bright space for an afternoon mitzvah! Just like Space 57, outside caterers are allowed, so let Susan Lane Events not only cater your event, but also provide event design and corr

   

For more ideas and to discuss options and pricing, please contact Susan Lane Events at (508) 783-1663.

A Local Tech Company’s Celebratory Retreat for 230

Our team recently assisted a tech company in Cambridge with celebrating its 30^th anniversary. To commemorate the occasion, the CEO and VP of Human Resources sought out Susan Lane Events to plan a weekend of fun on the Cape for the company’s 100+ employees and their families. As soon as the date was set and the venue booked, we knew this was going to be an amazing destination event and a great party that the employees would be talking about for years to come!    

Held during the last weekend in September, the attendees headed up to Ocean Edge Resort in Brewster on Friday afternoon for their luxurious overnight stay and a weekend filled with scheduled events.  Upon checking in and receiving a glass of champagne with their welcome bag filled with goodies at reception, guests were free to enjoy the amenities of the hotel including four pools, tennis courts, on-site beach, and fitness centers. We loved the kites that were given out to the kids since the wind that day was perfect for flying them on the resort’s front lawn!

Our team sourced some fun local Cape Cod treats for the company inscribed sling bags that were handed out to each employee. Some of the items included chocolate covered cranberries, salt water taffy, Cape Cod potato chips, bottled waters, flashlights & kites for the children, and weekend itinerary and maps of the property.

Families with children were invited to the children’s dinner buffet complete with a balloon artist for entertainment. Glen was very talented and had so many ideas up her sleeve! She was able to create pretty much any item the children desired out of her many colors and varieties of balloons.

 

Next it was on to cocktail hour! We were fortunate enough to have fantastic weather (although a bit chilly) and cocktails took place at sunset on the Ocean Terrace overlooking beautiful Cape Cod Bay. Cocktail tables were scattered around an elegantly stationed cheese and crudité display with a beautiful seaside floral arrangement in the center. Passed hors d’oeuvres included mini Mediterranean pizzas, tuna tartare on wonton chips, brie on crostini with apple chutney, and satay skewers to name a few. Guests raved about the food and the ambience of the venue in particular. Check out the fabulous water views from the Terrace!

Then it was onto the clambake! The main event took place downstairs in the Mansion Ballroom and guests were met with an oceanic atmosphere as they entered the room. We put nautical inspired lanterns and hurricanes with pillar candles, sand and shells on the dinner tables and along the buffet. Linens in the company’s color and clambake necessities were placed on all the tables. After a short presentation by the CEO, it was time to eat! The bountiful buffets included classic clambake favorites such as lobsters cracked to order, New England clam chowder, clams with linguica, corn on the cob and Apple Cider BBQ chicken as well as unique offerings like herb rubbed steak with cabernet mushroom sauce. Due to the high number of vegetarians in attendance, we wanted to make sure they also enjoyed the meal so we added some delicious salads such as sweet potato salad with maple vinaigrette and navy bean and tomato salad with fennel and thyme. The clambake was a big hit with the guests and even the wine that was served during dinner paired nicely with the food!

Dessert was served along with the company’s raffle prizes, gifts, and awards presentation.  Sweet treats included bbq favorites such as traditional strawberry shortcake and mile-high apple pie a la mode. When the clambake event ended, the party was far from over. Many of the guests headed down to the old English style pub for celebratory drinks. From what they can remember, it was a heck of a time!

Breakfast was planned the next morning for all guests in the Bay Pines Pavilion- a gorgeous tent on the property, located next to the pool on the “ocean side” of the resort. A very casual affair, everyone ate a nice hot breakfast and mingled with their peers before saying their goodbyes and heading out for a full day of off-site activities.

 

On behalf of all the staff at Susan Lane Events, we’d like to thank our vendors who had a huge part in making this event a success. First and foremost, a big thank you to the awesome staff at Ocean Edge Resort for providing the exceptional rooms, delicious food and beverages, and friendly service to the company’s attendees. Thank you also to Party Cape Cod for the linen rentals, Glen and Armand at Urban Circus Events for the kid’s entertainment, Patrice Milley for the gorgeous floral arrangements, and Gary Kim for your amazing DJ talents and audio expertise! Finally, a very special thank you to the very talented John Kreis at JohnKreis.com for the amazing photos taken at the event! What an amazing time had by all. That’s a wrap folks- can’t wait for the 40^th!

 

Entertaining Boston Style: How to contain costs on holiday parties

By Susan Lane of Susan Lane Events

I know it’s early to be talking “holiday parties”, but as a planner, I have to think ahead. While I was preparing for this year’s holiday events, I imagined that it would help to hand out some ideas on how to cut back on what can be a very expensive proposition. We all want to “wow” our guests, and this can still be accomplished while still watching our budget.  Just remember to keep in mind taste and visual presentation when putting these ideas below into practice.

• Choose starch/cheese/vegetarian/poultry based hors d’oeuvres. Go light on the shellfish, fish &  beef tenderloin options.

Goat Cheese Crostini with sauteed mushrooms and roasted cherry tomatoes

• Supplement your menu with a gorgeous slate or wood board topped with artisan cheeses and yummy pâtés. There are some beautiful  cheeses out there- fresh and aged goat cheeses, blues, triple crèmes and farmhouse cheddars. Pair them with some fruit pastes often sold in the same refrigerated case as the cheeses. Surround with berries and grapes. Put these out and watch them go. The reason people don’t eat cheeses at parties is they’re usually sub-par cheeses. Some nice cheeses and some interesting crackers & breads go a long way especially when your guests are drinking.

• Serve your favorite soup in little glass votives or espresso cups, garnished with a long chive or skewered tiny shrimp.

Carrot Ginger Soup Sips

• Choose to have a caterer deliver food as opposed to having it fully serviced. Yes, I know- I’m shooting myself in the foot but not all of you will choose this route.

• Purchase some items from your favorite stores as well. I won’t go so far as to suggest getting frozen hors d’oeuvres from Costco. Don’t tell me if you did so! But your area, I’m certain, has some fabulous ethnic or cheese shops.

– Sevans in Watertown for delicious spreads like hummus, baba ghanouj, spicy muhammara dip; stuffed grape leaves; delicious baklava and apricot logs.

– The big Asian supermarkets, HMart in Burlington and Super 88 in Brighton, stock all kinds of dumplings and fabulous shrimp shumai in their freezers, as well as, rows and rows of exotic fruits, vegetables and spices; and usually some amazing fresh fish and shellfish.

H Mart in Burlington, MA

• You can also supplement your menu with a spiral ham or oven roasted turkey with all those lovely accoutrements and tiny rolls. It will fill your guests up without breaking the budget.

Country Ham and Turkey with Cranberry Chutney, red pepper relish and country mustard

• Do keep in mind that most all caterers do have food minimums for full service parties in December. Find out what their minimum is now and do some research. It will save you a lot of time later on.

• Many caterers (me included!!!) will staff your event even if they aren’t bringing the food. You may just need a kitchen helper, waiter, bartender. Call me for rates.

• Doing a day-time event instead of a night event could cut your costs in half. Set a table outside and serve hot cocoa and mulled apple cider for guests. Serve tiny sandwiches and put out a large tureen of your favorite chili with traditional sides like cornbread, grated cheeses, hot sauce.

• Choose less expensive “stations” from your caterer such as an “Assorted Slider Station”, “Mashed Potato Bar”, “Stir-fry Station”, “Pasta Station”, “Empanada or Quesadilla Bar”, “Asian Noodle Station”.

• Instead of having a 4-5 hour party, make it 2-3 hours. Put an end time on your invites.

• I often tell clients to only serve wine and beer instead of a full bar. Your guests don’t expect a full bar. They are just happy to be invited to your home. A full bar is very pricey between the liquor and mixers. Taste and choose some inexpensive wines and sparkling wines now so you’re prepared. Trader Joe’s carries a lovely Prosecco called “Il” by Mionetto. It is under $10 and quite amazing. Pair it with a touch of Chambord, Elderflower Liqueur, or other favorite liqueur and a twist of lemon. Wines are more subjective and there are many choices out there for under $15 bottle and even under $10.

• Skip serving dessert to your guests. I know! No one will like me for this one. If it’s a cocktail party, you are not required to serve dessert. If you really can’t avoid it, put out a tray of bars and tiny cookies near the front door. They can grab one as they put their coats on! Dessert only prolongs the evening. If you want to shorten your event this year, this is a good place to start.

• If dessert is part of the evening, try serving some seasonal fruit crisps or bread puddings instead of more expensive cakes, tarts and mini pastries.

I hope these ideas help you when planning your holiday event. Contact me with any questions you may have!

Susan Lane of Susan Lane Events

Susan Lane – susan@susanlaneevents.com

Jessica Daley- jessica@susanlaneevents.com

508-783-1663

Entertaining Boston Style: Wedding Venue Showcase

Susan Lane Events loves planning weddings, whether they be at a ritzy hotel downtown or a rustic campground in Vermont. We expect that all our clients have a different vision of their big day and that’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the Boston area’s top wedding venues for each bride’s wedding personality and style. But that’s not all- we’re also giving you tips on how to best utilize the space and natural architecture to create a unique theme and style concept. We took one of Boston’s top hotels (Taj Boston), a gorgeous farm/barn venue (Harrington Farm), and a classic museum (DeCordova Museum and Sculpture Park) and gave each one a wedding story. See the fantastic results below and don’t forget to call us to help you with your own “story”. Susan Lane Events- 508-783-1663 or e-mail us at susan@susanlaneevents.

The Taj– “City Chic”

Like the idea of majestic grand ballrooms and sweeping city views? Look no further than the Taj Boston, located on Arlington Street directing across the street from the Boston Common Garden. We love the idea of having all post wedding photos taken in the park with beautiful pond and garden backdrops. Your guests will definitely be wined and dined here at this former Ritz hotel which recently went through a multi-million dollar renovation. Although this venue boasts five different ballrooms and gathering spaces each different in its own way, we think that the rooftop ballroom on the 17^th floor (with panoramic views of the city I might add) is the most impressive. The Roof is open from April to November for private celebrations up to 200 guests for reception and 130 guests seated. Big name big band artists (like Benny Goodman and Tommy Dorsey just to name a few) played here during the Big band era so we decided that a classic Gatsby style wedding was in order. The marble floors are black and white checkered and the ceilings are low which gives the room an intimate feel. Here are our recommendations for throwing the soiree of the season on the Roof at the Taj:

• Black and white colors with silver and amber accents would be the way to go! Little touches of dark blue and purple colors strewn about here and there would look great but nothing too crazy. Table numbers and place cards in the style of the 1920’s or 1930’s and of course white flowers and candles with silver holders everywhere! Track lighting and spotlights would accent the entire room and showcase the beautiful white florals throughout the room. Add in a black and white checkered dance floor with a swing band like the Sultan’s and the vision is complete.

• To start off the night, allow guests to take a glass of champagne from an elegant display with crystal platters, elevations and elegantly embroidered flutes. Why not have guests take home their flutes as a memorable favor?

• Have the reception be “cocktail style” and have the banquet servers butler pass the food. Small plates and heavy hors d’oeuvres instead of a sit down dinner menu make it easier for guests to mingle. We’re thinking a couple of the waitstaff could wear one of those old fashioned cigarette caddies and roam around giving out treats of ice cream sundaes around dessert time!

Harrington Farm– “Rustic Elegance”

For brides who just want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, a quaint barn wedding on a picturesque farm may be in order. We love Harrington Farm because of its prime location near Mount Wachusett and all that goes with having a farm wedding- a rustic barn! For the brides who have their heart set on a wedding held outdoors, there is a Sperry tent on location which is available during the summer months for use for your reception. Brides also have the option to hold their ceremony in the beautiful garden on the property directly adjacent to a pond, which has a white pergola and gorgeous flowers surrounding it. Their menu offerings come straight from the inspiration of the resident chef who holds his organic menu standards to a high. Menus offer fresh home grown produce directly from the farm’s own garden. This earthy and organic concept drew inspiration for an elegant dinner party style wedding with a homegrown and fresh approach:

• Herbs and fresh scents inspire a casual yet elegant feel. Lavender and thyme flavors in the menu selections as well as flavorful specialty drinks. St. Germain and prosecco with a sprig of rosemary, anyone?

• For décor, cocktail hour should definitely have some twinkle lights strewn from bar to bar and within the seating area. Gorgeous earthy flowers such as wildflowers, peonies and hydrangeas would be an ideal fit for this venue. Elegant draping in the barn would be a dramatic statement as the barn has very high ceilings. Why not bring attention to the beautiful multi-story barn in your wedding style selections?

• Light pastels (i.e., lavender or easter egg yellow) would be the wedding colors in the barn. Chevron table runners and menu cards monogramed with the bride and groom’s initials, all in chevron pattern. Simple country style seating and tables would be laid out to give off a dinner party feel. Long tables rather than rounds with equally long centerpieces and candles would be perfect for this venue.

• Finally, a bonfire or sparkler exit would be a fantastic ending to the night! Summer nights end late and with a venue as beautiful as this, we’d love for you to keep the party going.

Sparklers

DeCordova Museum & Sculpture Park– “Smart Sophistication”

A beautiful museum venue nestled in the quiet town of Lincoln, this location is anything but ordinary. Catering toward the modern 21^st century couple, DeCordova offers a unique backdrop of contemporary art for an unforgettable wedding in its indoor and outdoor spaces. There are many options for holding events here- from al fresco cocktails on the Sculpture Terrace to a lavish dinner in the main hall or a grand tented affair on the lawn. Ceremonies are often held on the roof terrace which boasts some spectacular views! With over 60 contemporary pieces of fine art on loan from donors across the world, we think this would be a perfect venue for a couple who loves to travel and appreciated the finer things in life- like wine and globally inspired cuisine, for example. The love of wine and culture brought forth this amazing wedding style inspiration:

• Farm fresh cuisine that is globally inspired but locally grown! Not only would there be a sit down dinner, but a multi-course small plates tasting extravaganza to include pairings with only the best wines from around the world.                                                                                                                                                              • We would love to bring in some modern all white lounge furniture and sleek seating for guests to enjoy during cocktail hour. I’m thinking a white wedding with some succulents to accent the tables would be just heavenly. Green accents here and there (napkins and patterned linens most likely) and long white orchids in full bloom. Picture this- wine table numbers and corks as placecards with a mini succulent garden as a centerpiece!                                                                                                                                            • After dinner, why not have a cigar roller out back rolling some of the finest products from South America and sip on some great ports and cognacs? Susan Lane Events can certainly arrange the best cigar roller for your after party.

Succulents

Like what you see and want to talk wedding themes and venues? Contact Susan at (508) 783-1663 or e-mail us at susan@susanlaneevents.com… for more information.

                                                                                                    

 

 

 

Entertaining Boston Style: Labor Day Weekend Entertaining Made Simple

Putting off that summer barbecue? It really doesn’t have to be as difficult as people make it out to be. Here are some helpful ideas to simplify what seems to be just a big ordeal. The key is organization. Everything can be broken down into logical categories. I use lists, lots of lists. They come with me everywhere I go. Start your party list right now!  Scroll down for some easy tips and tricks for hosting a last minute summer party:

Food: Choose simple items which can be prepared ahead of time or purchased, i.e.:

• serve an antipasti with grilled veggies, cheeses, meats, olives, dips and crostini with aged balsamic and olive oil for dipping sauces.
• or a middle-eastern platter with hummus, baba ghanoush, stuffed grape leaves, yogurt cuke dip, feta or string cheese, olives and pita triangles and/or cracker bread. All of these can be purchased at one Middle-eastern market. In Massachusetts, there are several popular ones in Watertown. One is Eastern Lemejun Bakers. My favorite is Sevans Bakery.

• For protein, I love baby back ribs for their ease of preparation and do ahead feasibility. I buy racks of them on sale and store them in the freezer for such occasions. This recipe of mine is a great stand-by. A simple dry rub, long roast and a quick few minutes on the grill!

Susan’s Baby Back Ribs

Ingredients

Baby back ribs- dry rub below is for 4 racks

• 1 tablespoon cumin
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon granulated garlic
• 1 tablespoon granulated onion
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon white pepper
• Yield: About 9 tablespoons, enough for 4 racks
• A bottle or preparation of your favorite barbecue sauce

Directions

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well. Preheat oven to 250 degrees. Place ribs in large enough pyrex dish or cookie sheet with sides. Use hands to rub the mixture all over your ribs. Place in oven and slow cook for 5 hours.

When ready to serve, you can serve them as is, or slather your favorite bar-b-q sauce on them and grill just for a few minutes on each side. Make sure your grill is not set on high.

• Try adding some fun, summery composed salads like a beet and goat cheese salad or take advantage of the best corn of the season and do a pan fried roasted corn salad (see below).

Beet and Goat Cheese Salad- Serves 6

ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs. red beets (3 medium)
• 1.5 lbs. yellow or orange beets (3 medium); red may be substituted
• 1 T. plus 1 t. olive oil
• Kosher salt
• 4 T. EVOO
• 4 t. aged balsamic vinegar
• 6 ounces fresh soft goat cheese
• Fleur de sel or Kosher salt
• Four-Pepper mix or freshly ground pepper
• Baby greens- 1 package

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Wash beets and cut ends off. Brush with olive oil and sprinkle with the kosher salt. Wrap individually in aluminum foil and place on cookie or baking sheet for anywhere from 75-90 minutes. While still warm, run the beets under water while removing the skins. Cut into wedges. In a large bowl, toss them with the EVOO and balsamic vinegar.

Scoop the goat cheese into the middle of a large serving platter.

Arrange the baby greens around the goat cheese.

Arrange the beets with their vinaigrette on top of the greens. Sprinkle with fleur de sel and four pepper mix and serve!

Roasted Corn Salad

Ingredients:

• 8 ears of freshly shucked corn or 1 large bag frozen white shoepeg corn (thawed slightly)
• 1 T. or more to taste of cumin
• 2 T. vegetable oil or peanut oil
•  
• 1 jalopeno- chopped fine
• ½ red bell pepper diced
• ½ c. chopped cilantro
• ½ c. red onion
• ½ lime- juice from
• kosher salt and fresh ground pepper to taste

Directions:

Heat large pan on med. high. Add oil. Heat. Add corn and sauté while turning for 1 minute. Add cumin. Continue to sauté until corn starts to turn a nice golden brown

Cool in fridge.

Add remaining ingredients and toss to combine. Let flavors meld and serve.

 

Tips:

• Add a big platter piled high with baby arugula, squeeze of lemon juice, drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, a sprinkle of kosher salt and pepper, some shaved imported Pecorino Romano cheese. Have these ingredients out and ready to throw together and top with some amazing well-seasoned sliced medium-rare rib-eye steak. So easy and absolutely amazing. Accompany with some Iggy’s breads or other local fresh baked breads.
• Dessert: I am not a big dessert person. I admit it, o.k.? I either delegate this to my guests, or it’s ice cream sundaes with fun toppings, or maybe some store bought pies, brownies and/or cookies. No cheating here. I will make a special trip to a farm for a freshly baked one. No chain store desserts for my friends.
• Place all of your serving platters and bowls out along with appropriate serving pieces and label each one.
• Make sure if it’s a crowd of 40 for example, that you put the appropriate sized bowl or platter out. If it is a bowl that only serves a family of 4, you will either be running back and forth to the kitchen OR even worse, you don’t refill the bowl and your guests go hungry.

Bar:

• To keep things real simple, I always recommend just serving wine, beer, soft drinks and water. People don’t expect to be served mixed drinks. There’s no need to spend more than $10-$15 per bottle on wine. There are many great inexpensive wines out there. You might have to start keeping a list of some nice ones and keep it in the car.
• Ice- 1 lb. per person for icing down tubs and icing drinks. Icing down beer and wine only takes half an hour to forty five minutes so buy the ice in bags an hour before guests arrive. Place drink ice in a bowl with an ice scoop or large serving spoon.
• Have a separate small tub for kids drinks. Individual sized small juice boxes and small waters are best. Less mess and kids tend to get distracted so you want to keep them small.
• Glassware and cocktail naps: I prefer glass, but some occasions call for plastic. It’s your call and it mostly depends on how fancy you want to get. Two real glasses per person are all you need; more if you’re doing mixed drinks.
• Whenever I’m out shopping, I always pick up cute cocktail napkins so I always have them available for spontaneous get-togethers.
• All of this can go on, or near a table that you’ve deemed the bar table. I have a 4 foot fold-up one in my garage for just this purpose. Throw a cute linen over it and your bar is all set. Make sure your linen covers the ugly fold up legs. That’s my only pet peeve. If the table has nice wooden legs, show them off!

Additional Ideas:
• Cut some flowers from your garden and place in a fun vase for the dinner/outdoor table. Have some festive and colorful tablecloths on hand for your outdoor table.
• Have some inexpensive games from a craft store for the kids to play with. Water balloons, make your own paper airplanes. It will keep them busy while the adults have their adult time.
• When your guests ask you what to bring, be specific! Kid friendly dessert, an hors d’oeuvre, 3 bottles of wine, 4 bags of ice. Delegate, delegate, delegate!
• Make sure your gas tank on the grill is full. Or, that charcoal is purchased.
• Don’t play YOUR favorite music. Ask your guests what they enjoy. After all, why torture them with your favorite 70′s rock band lyrics.

I hope this helps you to fulfill that goal of having a summer party before the cold weather sets in. We’re only on this planet for so long. Create a memorable moment and invite your friends over… And, remember, Keep It Simple!

Susan Lane Events does full service event planning, consultation, and offers catering/staffing services. Susan can be reached at (508) 783-1663.

Entertaining Boston Style: A SoBe style bash for 150

The vision for this post-wedding event was a “South Beach” vibe. Miami-cool. Ultra-hip. Modern. Electric. Right away, we knew it wasn’t going to be some fancy garden party. This was going to be “over-the-top”. We only had a couple of months to plan, but we knew right away that this event was going to be sensational. Once we got the okay to just run with the theme and begin planning, we started brainstorming. All these different ideas on lighting, décor, space design and logistics started coming together and the end result only enhanced the original concept.

Throughout the evening, shuttle buses transported guests from a Weston Town Rec Parking lot to the home.

J Kreis Photography took some fabulous photographs throughout the event.

 

When the day finally arrived, it was no surprise that the guests were in fact wowed beyond belief. The client and I both agreed that this was truly a party right out of a SoBe magazine. Martinis, cosmos, and Hendricks and tonics with cucumbers flowed at the two “glow” bars on the property. Casual food stations were scattered around the beautifully lit space allowing guests to  mingle and casually explore all the options provided. The Adventure Station was by far the biggest hit of them all. Delicately wrapped sushi rolls, nigiri sushi or raw fish over rice, and shumai dumpling “spoons” were just some of the scrumptious offerings on this station which illuminated light triggered by LED’s in clear vessels.

Adventure Station

Nigiri and Maki Sushi with Soy Sauce and Wasabi

To include salmon, tuna, yellowtail nigiri and spicy tuna roll with tempura crumbs, California roll, vegetarian roll, salmon and yellowtail rolls

Vietnamese Veggie Rolls (room temp) with Sweet chili sauce

Fried Shrimp Shu Mai with Sweet and Spicy Chili Sauce served on Asian Spoon

Handmade Northern Chinese Dumplings served in Bamboo Steamers with Soy Ginger Dipping Sauce:

Chicken w/Chinese Cabbage, Vegetarian Spinach, Shrimp and Pork

Vietnamese Rolls

Crab Shumai Dumpling on Asian Spoon

Salmon, Yellowtail and Toro Tuna Nigiri

Spicy Tuna, Yellowtail, Crab Tempura Maki

The other stations had bountiful displays as well. From the Comfort Station containing assorted flatbreads, sliders and dogs to the Mediterranean Station containing a wide variety of skewers and mezze items, there was something truly for everyone.

Skewers and Mezze Station

Grilled Persian Chicken and Olive Brochette with Preserved Lemon Aioli

Grilled Medjool Dates Stuffed with Great Hill Blue Cheese Wrapped in Bacon Korean Marinated Pork Skewers with Ginger Scallion Sauce

Hoisin Grilled Beef Skewer

Lemon and Herb Marinated Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Salsa Verde

Skewer station served with:

Mezze Platter featuring Zahtar Spiced Pita Chips, Roasted Red Pepper Hummus, Smoky Eggplant and Tomato Baba Ghanouj, Carrot and Cumin Salad, Herb Tomato and Cucumber Salad, Vegan Stuffed Grape Leaves, Marinated Olives, Salted Almonds

Comfort Station

12 Hour Smoked Mini Pulled Pork Sliders with Cole Slaw

Mini Angus Burger with Truffle Aioli and Tomato Jam

Bratwurst in Puff Pastry with Beer and Mustard Sauce

Passed French fries in bamboo cones with ketchup

Warm Flatbread “Pizza” Board

-Marinated Roasted Fig Gruyere and Caramelized Onion

-Grilled Tenderloin with Caramelized Onion Parmesan and Truffled Potato

-Fresh Mozzarella Tomato and Basil

-Buffalo Chicken and Blue Cheese

Roast Fig, Gruyere, Caramelized Onions

Buffalo Chicken and Blue Cheese Flatbread- Yum!

Tomato Mozz Basil

 

Dessert was a treat later in the evening as freshly baked chocolate chip cookies, sweet mini tartlets, mini cupcakes and chocolate covered cheesecake lollipops (the bride’s personal favorite!) were on display for all to enjoy. With such a wide variety, you really wouldn’t be surprised to hear about folks going back for more.

The reception tent itself was lit up with dozens of multi-colored Chinese lanterns, numerous up-lights illuminating bright color schemes, a wall of sheer fabric with up-lights behind the DJ table, and get this- moving lights circulating on the tent ceiling and white dance floor. Exotic plants and succulents were meticulously placed around the lounge area. We placed two white leather daybeds and a large white leather serpentine couch around the dance floor.  Lots of chrome based hi-top tables, and “glow” tables dotted the tent to allow guests to feel as though they were transported back to the Delano. Of course the clear “ghost” chairs and bar stools really added to the vibe as well.

Miami Vibe

After sunset, dimly lit lanterns lined the walkway to the tent and to the luxurious restroom accommodations. Why luxurious, you might say? It’s all in the name. Luxury Loo provided the “five star” port-a-potties which were by far the most talked about item at the event. These outhouses seemed more like beach cottages than your standard run-of-the-mill restroom stalls.

Luxury Loo!

In the end, it really came down to the overall atmosphere of the event. As every detail came together, one aspect that really stood out was personalities of the fun group of people in attendance. Overall, the crowd was lively and the music was hoppin’. DJ Sheldon kept the party going strong until midnight with his incredible tune selections. No tacky wedding songs were played here and definitely no conga lines! True to his word, he kept the dance floor crowded and had the guests feeling like they were in the middle of a Miami Beach nightclub. Keeping the guests entertained is one thing though but in the end it’s all about the guests of honor. So were the bride and groom over the moon? Witnesses say that the happy couple were all smiles all evening long as the bash held in their honor was truly, in a word, unforgettable.