A Newport Wedding Planner

A Newport Wedding Planner: Raina Dawn Events

2010-01-26T08:09:00.001-08:00

I am sorry I have been MIA this week & that this week we are skipping "FridayPHOTOGRAPHY." There are some big weddings I am working on in Newport coming up and some amazing clients on the horizon it has been super busy here! Things are going amazing and we are just loving every minute of it : )

Being A Newport Wedding Planner it calls for me being up in Newport for this beautiful weekend...it's tough ; ) I have the amazing job of spending the weekend with a fabulous couple who are getting married this October at Belle Mer! I mean talk about a delicious tasting that rocked today...more on that this week.

So I need to focus on my clients and I promise I will be back next week with lots of great blog posts, a Friday Photography with Lux Photo Studios and some great tips & advice from my wedding planning weekend in Newport!

Enjoy the weather & the weekend!!

Photography by Onne Van Der Wal

A Newport Wedding Planner: Raina Dawn Events Platinum Weddings on WeTV

2009-09-08T08:17:00.000-07:00

Raina Dawn Events goes Platinum on WeTV!!

The SECRET is out & the news that arrived on my birthday is revealed...

Platinum Weddings on the WeTV Network filmed my most recent wedding in Newport, Rhode Island just a few weeks ago. This is the first and only Newport, RI Platinum Wedding they have ever filmed...actually the only one in all of New England!

I feel honored to have been featured as THE Platinum Weddings Wedding Planner for Newport, RI. Most of all I feel so lucky to have planned and had the opportunity to coordinate such an amazing wedding and weekend of events for Michelle & John!

I can't wait to share with you all of my SECRETS in planning a Platinum Wedding, why this wedding was so special, who the Newport Platinum vendors were and lots, lots more.

So I have to send a big thank you to Emily...you rock & if you ever decide you want to leave producing and do wedding planning you must let me know ; )

Chris, Issac, and Christine (our crew from LA for 4 days) you were awesome...thank for your patience, for making us all look fabulous and for being part of such an exciting weekend!

Platinum Weddings and WeTV thank you for showcasing the elegance, caliber and sophistication that Raina Dawn Events brought to Michelle & John's wedding and that we pride ourselves on bringing to every wedding we plan!!

Most of all I want to thank Michelle & John, The Cassidy's & The Bannon's!!!

Stay tuned for lots more on my Platinum Wedding, the gorgeous and amazing bride & groom, all the Newport Wedding Planner SECRETS and of course all of the stunning photos to come...

A Newport Wedding Planner: Raina Dawn Events in Full Force

2009-08-17T08:16:00.000-07:00

Hi all...

I have not forgotten about you. As A Newport Wedding Planner, it is high season and things here at Raina Dawn Events are just jam packed with planning, new clients, a huge Newport wedding this weekend and so many exciting things happening we can't wait to share with you.

After this fabulous wedding in Newport, Rhode Island this weekend is complete & the bride and groom are on their honeymoon, I promise to be back in action with TONS of Newport, RI info, planning tips, exciting news about Raina Dawn Events & much, much more blogging excitement!!

Stay tuned and I will be back next week!!

__________________

Here is a sneak peek at my birthday on Aug. 10th at a fabulous restaurant in DC called Oya. These are taken with my brand new Nikon camera (one of my birthday gifts I got that I just absolutely LOVE !!!).

I also can't wait to tell you about the other amazing birthday gift that came on my birthday...you will have to stay tuned ; )

There I am making a very important birthday wish...it's a SECRET!

I will say...

Life is about celebrating and enjoying every moment...not only the big occasions, but all the precious little moments in between.

I want to send a special thank you to my amazing clients, my dear friends, my loving family and of course my special Guy...for all your love, support & birthday wishes..."Life is good"!!

A Newport Wedding Planner: Raina Dawn Events Press

2009-08-08T08:15:00.000-07:00

I am so excited about the photo shoot we did this past week for La Bella Bride Magazine!

We joined with the talented & amazing Castle & Pierpont to design a stunning table scape for the next issue of La Bella Bride.

My fabulous friend Rori from Castle & Pierpont is such a talent an I feel so lucky to have teamed up with her on this project. We had such a great day at a stunning location right outside of NYC called Wave Hill...we had never been and were blown away by how gorgeous it was..the grounds are phenomenal!!! I can't wait to suggest the venue to my clients.

To top it off my friends at Haute Papier custom designed the menu and table number cards...a sneak peek at those to come soon.

Ruth Fischl provided the stunning furniture and Broadway Party Rentals provided the table settings.

You are just going to have to wait to pick up the next issue of LaBella Bride to see what we did!

__________________________________________________________________________

BTW check out a little sneak peek on LaBella Bride's Blog:

La Bella Bride loves this venue…….

We just had to share the best kept secret in the Northeast. Wednesday we shot our New York Photo shoot at a venue namedWave Hill. Thirty minutes from Manhattan, Wave Hill is a 28 acre public garden and cultural center in the Bronx overlooking the Hudson River and Palisades. Its mission is to celebrate the artistry and legacy of its gardens, to preserve its magnificent views, and to explore human connections to the natural world through programs in horticulture, education and the arts. If you are ever in the city, please make an effort to visit this spectacular place!

Above are great shots of Wave Hill…..

Michelle from Main Event Weddings, working hard at shooting the best images for our 2010 issue of La Bella Bride Magazine.

Raina from Raina Dawn Events with Rori of Castle and Pierpoint, finalizing the plan for their table scape.

Newport & Destination Wedding Photographer- Carrie Rodman

2009-08-07T08:14:00.000-07:00

I am so excited about today's Friday PHOTOGRAPHY with my dear friend and amazing wedding photographer Carrie Rodman Photography! Carrie is sharing her SECRETS with us and a gorgeous recent Newport Wedding she photographed .

Carrie and I go way back to our NYC publishing days...she is passionate about her weddings and brings NYC talent to Newport!

Carrie shares her SECRETS behind wedding photography with us, along with Meghan & Jason's wedding at the Regatta Place June 21, 2009

Meg and Jay were a joy to photograph. They have a little boy Owen who was just precious in his seersucker suit. What was endearing about this couple, their devotion to each other and Owen. Their wedding was a fun celebration

of the family they had already started long before the vows were said. I was honored to be a part of their special day.

Carrie's SECRETS...

When I first sit down with a potential client, it is a mutual interview. I really know having a connection with my couples is fundamental.

It establishes a level of trust, allowing me to capture a wedding in a very intimate way. An emotional bond not only elevates the work, it ensures that we will have a fun day.

Basically, I love photography and my brides . That sentiment resonates in my work, pure and simple.

What I tell my couples is common sense, when it comes to selecting a photographer. You really need to like your photographer, just as much as you like their work. If you love both, even better.

I am an art director just as much as a photographer. The "candid" moments that people gravitate to in my book, are usually crafted by me in someway.

Good art direction encompasses things like knowing how to make people comfortable, being sensitive, moving and motivating people,what angles are flattering, collaborating with my couples and wedding planners, it is knowing when to move on if something isn't working, etc.....

Art direction is one of my fortes. It is a skill just like taking a great picture. The combination of the two have allowed me to be successful in both my commercial and wedding careers.

Check out Carrie's gorgeous studio in Newport, RI LightWave Studio...yes I know, it looks like a loft in Tribeca!

Newport & Destination Wedding Vendors- Sayles Livingston Flowers

2009-08-05T08:13:00.000-07:00

Today I am thrilled to feature my friend and fabulous florist Sayles of Sayles Livingston Flowers!

If you are looking for stunning floral and decor ("and unusual arrangements") for your Newport wedding you MUST make sure to hire Sayles!! She is one of the best floral designers in Southern New England, not to mention has been in the wedding and event industry for over 15 years and is truly a delight to work with!

Don't forget to follow Sayles blog at "Fresh Cuts".

Sayles has shared a few of her "SECRETS" with us...

1. One of my “secrets” is that designing flowers is just like interior design and a good designer must not be afraid of interesting color combinations or textures!

2. Also, every wedding is a new and unique experience. We treat each client like they were the first and only one. A wedding is a very emotional and special day and the bride and groom should be well taken care of with a calm and thoughtful approach.

3. Never hire a vendor you don’t trust!

A Newport Wedding Venue

2009-07-25T08:12:00.000-07:00

If you are considering having a Newport, Rhode Island Wedding check out these stunning photographs of venues you can get married in!!

The talented Newport photographer, Peter Silvia has shared these with us...thanks Peter (don't forget to follow Peter's blog to see wedding photography from these venues).

Enjoy!

Rosecliff Mansion

Rosecliff Mansion at Night

Astor's Beechwood Mansion

OceanCliff Hotel

Glen Manor House

Aldrich Mansion

The Chanler at Cliff Walk

New York Yacht Club

New York Yacht Club Tent

Castle Hill Inn

A Newport Wedding Planner: Tip of the Day!

2009-07-20T08:11:00.000-07:00

After a great planning weekend up in Newport I have promised tips and advice for planning your Newport wedding. Continue to check back for more to come!

A Newport Wedding Planner: Tip Of The Day. If you are planning your wedding in Newport, RI (or wherever your destination of choice is)... Don't forget when coordinating your transportation for your guests... plan for traffic!

Newport traffic in high season can be pretty brutal...OK not NYC brutal, but enough that you want to consider it! You will be surprised how long it can take you to just get down Thames.

Make sure to check out "Things To Do-Events Calendar" at GoNewport.com to see if there are any festivals or events to be aware of. I was in town with a client and traffic was so backed up on Bellevue...it was no wonder Monica Seles was being inducted to the Tennis Hall of Fame!

So keep it in mind and talk to your transportation company...they do this every weekend and can help you with timing. Air on the side of caution...we want your guests to arrive on time or early and we don't want them to miss a thing!

For some fun ways to cart your guests around Newport... everyone always loves the Newport Wedding Trolley by Viking Tours!!

Rockstar Limo has great vehicles too!

There are other great forms of transportation in my war chest, but I can't reveal all my SECRETS ; )

Photography Credit:(top photo) Faith Dugan Photography

A Newport Wedding Planner: Raina Dawn Events

2009-07-16T08:10:00.000-07:00

Here are some great shots from Jamie K Photography of The Wedding Salon's event at The Harvard Club last month.

Don't forget to check out Jamie's wedding photography (soon to be featured on "FridayPHOTOGRAPHY" as well!)

I was so excited to run into my dear friend from our high school days...Jessica Paulen (daughter of Judy Paulen Designs) you can find her handling all the beautiful invitations at Bloomingdales!

Here I am sitting next to Carley Roney of The Knot. The launch of Raina Dawn Events on The Knot's Newport.Weddings.com as their featured blogger was the result of this luncheon...don't forget to follow us on The Knot!

A Newport Wedding Venue

2009-07-07T08:08:00.000-07:00

If you are planning your wedding in Newport, Rhode Island... or you simply want to host a delicious dinner for your guests...or maybe you want to get away with someone special, Castle Hill Inn & Resort should be top on your list!

I am excited today to focus on the delicious and savory food you find at Castle Hill Inn & Resort, a Relais & Chateaux property. I get to share with you the SECRET behind it all...Chef Jonathan Cambra!

My secret:

"Staying true to our philosophy."

"The key to great food is being honest with yourself and what you can achieve; there are many ways to prepare a great dish but only one way to do it right. This is achieved in many stages, but it starts with fresh, local, sustainable foods brought to our kitchen from our local farmers and fish mongers. My duties as a chef are to search for those ingredients and utilize them in their purest form to surpass our guests’ expectations. To properly execute the perfect meal, we must have a team of people, both in the kitchen and in the dining room, that share the same values. We set a standard and we can not fall below that standard. It is about commitment."

"The Castle Hill difference is our focus on fresh ingredients, our passion for serving people, and our dedication to our craft."

Chef Jonathan Cambra/Castle Hill Inn & Resort

As a Newport wedding planner, you can simply follow my blog of wedding SECRETS and soon I will be featuring more about Castle Hill Inn & Resort and the gorgeous weddings that are done there...

Newport & Destination Wedding Photographer- Maggie Conley

2009-07-03T08:07:00.000-07:00

This July 4th Friday weekend I am featuring a Connecticut and Newport wedding photographer, Maggie Conley, who joyfully shared her SECRETS and beautiful images with us!

Maggie Conley Photography specializes in fine art photojournalism and what she calls "telling the real story...unobtrusive story telling."

A favorite of Maggie's, shooting with real black and white film!

"Some people say they shoot bw, but I really do..."

"I think the secret is to be open to your client and their movements toward each other when making portraits. I never dictate, never! A series really shows their intimacy - their love."

"I really believe in letting kids be kids at a wedding - they just love the attention. The genius in photographing children is the in between moment, then you really see them!"

"As a beloved shooter of bw film, I am always looking for interesting ways that light illuminates the photo."

Maggie Conley of course doesn't just shoot gorgeous black & white, but her color images are just as beautiful. Maggie comments on this series she shot..."watch how the groom touches his bride!!! How sweet is this guy!"

Maggie Conley Photography's secrets for a great engagement shoot...

"Be yourselves."

"Don't be afraid of props - keeps you buys and thinking about something besides being photographed."

"Love one another and keep it playful and fresh."

"Choose a location with good lighting, clean lines and interesting architecture that will not dominate the photographs. The photographs really need to be about love, not about stuff or buildings."

On weddings...

"Savor the moment when everyone congrats you!

Don't rush the photos - some great moments get sacrificed when everyone gets to rigid.

I love the emotion in all these faces!

These were all shot within minutes of each other just after the processional.

Thyme to Cook had a wonderful papaya pineapple mojito - great colors ready for a toast!"

Don't forget to check out Maggie Conley Photography's Blog to keep track of the fabulous work she is producing. Thanks Maggie for sharing your SECRETS and kicking off the holiday weekend with us!

A Newport Wedding Planner: Cheers to Raina Dawn Events!

2009-07-01T08:06:00.000-07:00

I have not forgotten about you! Things have been very busy here at Raina Dawn Events.

Today I want to announce that...I love my job! I have one of the best jobs ever. Being a wedding planner in Newport, Washington, DC, NYC and beyond is just as fabulous as it sounds ; ) I have the best clients and not only are they my clients, but they very often become my friends.

To top it off I get to work with the most amazing and inspiring vendors. These talented individuals and companies also love what they do. I mean how can we not when we get to share in such a special day and be a part of memories that will last a lifetime...doesn't get much better!

Thank you Mike Cyr, of Buzz Media Company, for putting this video together for me. This is the first draft of what will soon be on my website for clients to view and get to know me and my work. Mike, you are such a talent...thank you again...and thank you Michelle & Gloria!!

Click Here:

"Cheers to Raina Dawn Events Video"

Newport & Destination Wedding Photographer- M Benedicte Verley

2009-06-26T08:05:00.000-07:00

On this last Friday in June, I am thrilled to feature a special photographer out of Rhode Island, M Benedicte Verley. When I came across Benedicte's work, I thought...SIMPLY timeless.

Benedicte shoots largely destination weddings, so to find this type of caliber in the Rhode Island area was truly a joy for me. Enjoy getting to know Benedicte and the SECRETS behind the lovely and talented M Benedicte Verley Photography!

One of my secrets of capturing the best images from a wedding day (or any shoot for that matter) is to be totally present. To not rush or be thinking of what I need to get to later on, but to savor every part of each moment as it passes into another moment. To tune into the bride as she feels nervous or offer a hand when it's needed to tie a bow tie. Even as I prepare each wedding with an itinerary list of " all the names of family and friends, time lines of the day, who is camera shy, etc" I never work on another wedding until I am totally finished shooting the previous one. It allows me to stay tuned into the feeling and energy of each celebration.

Another secret is that I only take couples that I really resonate with. It makes my job much more fun when I have a wonderful connection with my clients, which then results in beautiful, intimate images. I also have a wonderful, talented crew of associates that shoot and work with me, we are like one large family.

Many of my favorite images are those in between moments where you see someones true personality shining through, or a silent emotion happening between two people, or a detail that makes the wedding unique.

When I was working as a fashion photographer in Europe, I sometimes laughed with a colleague about "wedding photographers" and said that I would NEVER shoot a wedding ... because I had never seen wedding images that I actually admired. Then a dear friend asked me to shoot her wedding and after much hesitation, I finally agreed under the sole condition that I would be allowed to shoot in a more creative and soulful way, as I approached my fashion work. It was love at first shoot ...

I love what I do and I feel blessed to be such an important part of my clients wedding day.

A Newport Wedding Planner: Raina Dawn Events "Inspired."

2009-06-22T08:04:00.000-07:00

A wedding planner tip about ordering invitations online. I love this fabulous website called Minted.com. (for you techies...no it is not mint.com which is a cool money management website to check out if you haven't heard of it). Minted.com has the exclusive for some of the most STYLISH and beautiful wedding invitations out there! This is the only website you can order these luxury invitations from. This exclusive includes 18 of the best stationery brands including Wiley Valentine, Oblation Papers & Press, CECI New York and more.

They have more than just wedding invitations, but save the date cards, thank you cards, bridal shower cards, etc. The have letterpress, engraved, offset and digital printing methods to choose from. You can choose from 100% recycled, FSC-certified card stock that is made from 100% post-consumer waste...so check them out and enjoy browsing and ordering the high end, gorgeous invitations right online.

Other gorgeous brands they carry are Mr. Boddington, Dauphine Press and some of my favs are designers who have won Minted contests and get to sell you their one-of-a-kind designed cards!!

A little SECRET...they will even help you with the calligraphy as well!

Oh and don't forget to follow their blog to see what they are up to...they have some cool contests and giveaways!!

Newport & Destination Wedding Photographer- Jasmine Photography

2009-06-19T08:03:00.000-07:00

I am really excited about the featured photographer today...Jasmine Photography, based out of Portland, Oregon.

The reason I am so excited is this is the first glimpse into why I truly started "Friday PHOTOGRAPHY." My love for photography and what I miss most about photo editing... is finding photographers from around the country that are talented and passionate shooters. I get a rush of energy, actually giddy when I find amazing talent from other parts of the country...now I get to share that with you!

Alexis Achten, of Jasmine Photography, I came across some time ago and recently reached out to her to let her know how much I enjoyed her work, website and blog.

I asked Alexis if she would share with us what her "SECRET" is...

Secret #1: When I started getting serious about photography in college, I never thought for a moment that I'd be taken photos of people. For some reason at that time in my life it didn't seem like art to me. Now I don't know what I'd do without having wonderful clients to be my inspiration!

Secret #2: Some days you just don't feel like going into work. You might be tired, have a cold or are just having a bad day. Whenever I feel that way and then get to the event I'm shooting, it all disappears! I feel energized and excited to capture the moments. I guess photography is fuel for my soul!

Secret #3: To people who know me this isn't much of a secret but to those who don't I love bringing the element of fashion inspired images to your wedding day. Let me go and I'll run with it! No matter what I want my couples to have fun getting their picture taken and if I can capture their real laugh or smile, I've done my job.

Thanks Alexis for sharing with us your SECRETS and keep us up to date on the beautiful weddings you are shooting and any important SECRETS you wants to share with us in the future!

A Newport Wedding Planner: Raina Dawn Events "Inspired."

2009-06-18T08:02:00.000-07:00

For the shoe obsessed bride on a budget...check out these shoes for only $44.99 by bridal designer Lela Rose. Unforgettable Moments has exclusive styles designed by Lela for Payless with certain styles available in 64 custom colors.

Today brides aren't only wearing traditional white or ivory shoes, but they are having fun with color! With these prices you can have pair just for fun & pop of color...

Some advice from the designer, Lela Rose.

A Newport Wedding Planner: Tip of the Day!

2009-06-17T08:02:00.000-07:00

Today most brides & grooms are creating wedding websites for their special day. It is a great solution to the many information and travel cards that can distract guests from a beautiful wedding invitation, not to mention a fun way interact with your guests.

There are many sites out there that are easy to use and you can create your own customized website. I personally love WeddingWindow.com! I have designed beautiful websites for my clients with some really cool features with tons of great information and it looks so classy, elegant and in their colors.

Amy Ruocco, President of Wedding Window, Inc. lets us in on her SECRETS..."Having a personal wedding website is a true time-saver for both engaged couples and invited guests. Planning even the simplest wedding can involve a great deal of correspondence. With that in mind, having a custom wedding website can be the key to a stress-free experience. "

"We are watching demand for customized wedding websites sky rocket and are responding with new tools and designs that make it fun and easy for our couples to build their own wedding websites. "

Another really cool feature I love with Wedding Window is their matching Save-The-Date E-Cards!!

It is perfect for sending out once you have booked your venue or 6-8 months prior to your wedding day. If you are planning your wedding quickly and don't have time to send out a save-the-date this is another awesome and still elegant way to STD.

Check out all the cool features WeddingWindow.com has to offer and for couples who are having a destination wedding, a wedding website is a must!

A Newport Wedding Planner: Raina Dawn Events "Inspired."

2009-06-15T08:00:00.000-07:00

After an amazing Raina Dawn Event wedding for a client at The Astors' Beechwood Mansion on Saturday night in Newport, Rhode Island & a site visits around Newport with another client...I am back blogging!! Check back soon for some amazing wedding planning & vendor SECRETS & STYLE from the wedding at Astors' Beechwood Mansion.

Here are some STYLE inspirations for today. After seeing my bride this weekend in this gorgeous Melissa Sweet Wedding Dress...I have beautiful bridal gowns on my mind!!

Style Celerie | Priscilla of Boston

A heavy silk shantung strapless A-line gown with hand-placed ribbon, embroidery and beadwork. She had the matching veil to go with for the ceremony.

More STYLE Inspiration.

White Wedding by marina.b on Polyvore.com

Love in Spring by fashion by shyla featuring 1928 jewelry

The Wedding by lms.summerlove featuring Jimmy Choo shoes

Soft wedding by ♥CocoChanelN1♥ (busy) featuring Vera Wang dresses

Newport & Destination Wedding Photographer- Melissa Mermin

2009-06-12T07:59:00.000-07:00

Today I am featuring Melissa Mermin, Love Stories. Melissa has been photographing weddings and event for over 15 years. Dividing her time between Boston and San Francisco, she says "she has an 'allergy to snow and ice' and craves color and flowers year round".

Here is a sneak preview to one of her latest weddings 'Kristin and Douglas, Philadelphia' in the Fall/Winter 2009 issue of Inside Weddings magazine, out at the end of June!

Melissa is sharing with us some of her tips and 'secrets' she shares with her own clients:

"If you are having an outdoor wedding, try to schedule it within 2 hours of sunset if possible, it's the best light. If you are getting married in June when the sun sets past 8:30 and your ceremony is at 4pm, I like to take the bride and groom alone at about 8:15 for a few minutes of romantic portraits with natural golden light."

"Let your photographer know about little things that are important to you that we may not see- a sentimental pin from your grandma on your bouquet stem, the bottom of your shoes that your bridal party signed before you walk down the isle, a ring inscription. It's great to capture those things and also share them with people in the wedding who didn't get to see them. I also like to get an invitation (as well as gift baskets for destination weddings) before the wedding day if possible to photograph."

"Make a list of the formal groups you want photographed, don't think that you will be able to remember on the day of the wedding. Give the list to your wedding planner who will help gather people to make the formal portraits go quickly so you aren't standing around waiting for aunt Sally"

You can see Melissa Mermin's work in the new book, Wedding Photography Unveiled: Inspiration and Insight from 20 Top Photographers, and the upcoming book series, Moments of Intimacy, Laughter and Kinship (MILK) out in Fall 2009.

Newport & Destination Wedding Vendors- Buzz Media Company

2009-06-09T11:38:00.000-07:00

"Hi Raina, Here is a little hats off...hava a happy high season, howdy from Buzz Media Company. Don't be afraid to turn it up!" -Mike Cyr, Buzz Media Company

A rough, sketch video that Mike emailed me to get us pumped for summer season... www.buzzmediacompany.com/Conten/buzzhowdyo.mov

Newport Wedding Invitations and Paperie

2009-06-07T07:57:00.000-07:00

Alyssa Reeves, of Paradise Design Co., custom designs and creates fabulous couture invitations and more. Alyssa is a unbelievably talented designer who produces invitation suites that are not only extremely high quality, but unique, fun, innovative and classy. Alyssa creates a STYLE and look that is seen throughout the wedding from Save-The-Dates, to the Menu Cards, to custom labels. Alyssa's work is brilliant!

The SECRET behind Alyssa's talent:

"My background is in the advertising world as an art director. I like to bring a branding sensibility to wedding design projects so every piece feels coordinated, but not cookie-cutter."

Alyssa shares a SECRET with us for the bride/groom on a budget:

"If you're doing your own invitations and stationery, the secret is to be consistent—use the same fonts, the same paper...and remember less is more!"

Alyssa works with the top wedding planners in the country and of course our lovely Tara Jones Calligraphy!

Paradise Design Co. full site is coming soon, showcasing all of the amazing work she does...check back soon!!

Photography Credit: Lauren Clark Photography, Karlisch Photography

A Newport Wedding Planner: Raina Dawn Events "Inspired."

2009-06-06T07:57:00.000-07:00

Do you want glamorous shoes on your wedding day... Do you want to know the SECRET?

Abolsutely Audrey!!

Inspired by Audrey Hepburn, these shoe clips are a brilliant way to take an inexpensive wedding shoe and make it fabulous, fancy and affordable!

Do you want to know the SECRET behind Absolutely Audrey?

"Raina, I do have a fabulous secret that I can share. I found my wedding shoes at a discount store for $8.00 (!) and they had a little scratch on the front. I clipped the pair “Maxine” on them and they looked like new. The photo of the bride’s legs in my Bridal Collection is a photo of me at my wedding day and my shoes that got the instant –and cheap- makeover! "

-from my friend Crisa at Abolsutely Audrey

Check out what is on Sale!

An instant makeover to your shoes, bags, scarves, hats...you name it!

Newport Wedding Photographer- Faith Dugan

2009-06-05T07:56:00.000-07:00

I just love Fridays!! This Friday PHOTOGRAPHY I am featuring the talented and lovely...Faith Dugan Photography of Newport, Rhode Island.

Faith has some great SECRETS to share with us...

-Schedule an engagement shoot with your wedding photographer to bond with him/her. You'll feel more at ease on the wedding day since you have a relationship with your photographer and you aren't strangers. Great engagement pictures will also instill confidence in your chosen photographer.

-Choose the type of photography you are looking for. If you want photojournalistic or editorial style imagery, try to not be "camera-aware" on the day. Just do what you do and let your photographer capture you the way you are.

-Don't bog down your photographer with a lengthy "must-take" list. Photographers know they need to capture the ring ceremony and the first kiss. These are obvious photographs that the photographer is already planning on taking.

-Do provide a short list of family formals with names. If there are any

family dynamics your photographer needs to know about, tell them!

-Let your vendors do their art. It's ok to share your ideas and vision, but artists perform best when they are allowed to produce what they know best.

-If you don't have a photogenic home to get dressed in, rent a great

hotel room or suite with pretty furniture and window dressings.

-Relax and enjoy your day. If a small arrangement of flowers isn't exactly right, or the church doesn't play one of your songs, it's ok! You are probably the only one to notice. Your guests don't know the difference!

-Play a little for the camera when it comes to your portraits with your new husband.

Show chemistry, personality and love. It comes through in your pictures!

-Steal away with your husband for 3 minutes at the reception.

-Share a private moment and catch your breath!

Thanks Faith for sharing your your tips and secrets with us...and we promise to follow you on your fabulous blog, become a fan of yours on your Facebook page (I did already!) and keep track of you on your Twitter!

Check back and there will be more from Faith in the future...promise!

A Newport Wedding Planner: Raina Dawn Events "Inspired."

2009-06-04T07:48:00.000-07:00

One of my most exciting new SECRETS... this fabulous website called Polyvore.com!!

This website is where you can get tons of bridal inspiration, shop and purchase items you like and you can even create your own STYLE inspiration boards.

I may need to dedicate one day a week to "Polyvore STYLE Inspiration I Love".

Think Bridesmaids dresses...if you couldn't tell, I love purple!

Guess what? Another wedding set by that's not my name... is busy featuring Vera Wang dresses

Go for a bold turquoise punch of color!

Is it love? by sabian on Polyvore.com

Pretty in Pink!

thank you by Kaybat [NEW MOON!!!!] featuring Juicy Couture accessories

Green, grass, daisies, summer, beauty & fun!

Fresh by sabian on Polyvore.com

A Newport Wedding Planner: what Raina Dawn Events is up to...

2009-06-03T07:45:00.000-07:00

It is a late post today, but I haven't forgotten you!! It has been busy here with a big wedding in Newport, Rhode Island next weekend, a new awesome couple who just hired Raina Dawn Events for their wedding and a fabulous luncheon today hosted by The Wedding Salon at The Harvard Club in NYC.

In a room full 50 of the top wedding planners in NYC, I was thrilled to be in attendance and the lucky gal who got to sit next to Carley Roney, Co-Founder & Editor-in-Chief of TheKnot.com.

I had a chance to mingle and meet some fabulous women in the industry. My favorite aspect of the luncheon... listening to Carley's presentation and having the opportunity to chat with her over lunch. My feelings were confirmed...I am definitely in touch with "The Millennial Bride" ;-)

With my new blog Secrets, my new Facebook page, my "Virtual Project Manager" & more...I feel connected to "The Millennial Bride".

Something many of you don't know...is that all of my clients get their own personalized "Virtual Project Manager". They can log in from anywhere through my Client Login off of my website. It is interactive, organized, fun and basically the virtual space where all of the wedding planning happens between my clients and myself. I worked long and hard to find the right tool and high tech solution to organized planning for my clients and the result...their own VPM!

I was reminded today that many wedding planners, especially the ones who have been in the biz for years, do not want to reveal "their secrets". As for me... don't forget to sign up to read my SECRETS in your RSS reader & become a fan of mine on Facebook!

BTW check out Carley's Twitter from today. Hoping I will be Twittering soon!

And Carley, great advice...I should know having been a photo editor for nine years... everyone loves photos and less copy. Tomorrow is a new day and then there is FridayPHOTOGRPAHY!!

Newport Wedding Invitations and Paperie

2009-06-01T07:45:00.000-07:00

Check out these fun vintage post card save-the-dates that were custom done by Haute Papier in Washington, DC.

As a wedding planner I am always trying to suggest stylish, original ideas that are really creative and suit the wedding and couple. One of my clients who will be doing a destination wedding in Newport, Rhode Island loved my idea of hiring Haute Papier to design their own, personalized STD for their wedding...look how fabulous they turned out!

My client got to choose their favorite vintage post card & compose a message to their guests. Below, is another Haute Papier post card they feature on their website for a wedding in Washington, DC. I just love these!!

Newport & Destination Wedding Photographer- Christian Oth Studio

2009-05-29T07:43:00.000-07:00

Christian Oth Studio is the feature of today's "Friday PHOTOGRAPHY"

Quoted as "One of the Top Ten Wedding Photographers in the World" by American Photo Magazine!

I have had the amazing pleasure of working with Christian Oth Studio and they never cease to amaze me. Their work is divine!!

Today we are highlighting one of their principal photographers, Allison Mayfield. Allison shared some of her SECRETS just with us:

"I love fashion, and I love to bring that into weddings as much as I can… I love to visualize wedding photography like its a high art coffee table book."

"Portrait shoots should have a hint of fashion about it...and of course blended with some great photo journalism to document the day as it happens. The best brides to photograph are the ones who are comfortable in their dresses, and totally feel themselves."

"My biggest tip is “don’t sweat the small stuff”, its a celebration, a party after all!

Enjoy it as it happens, WHATEVER happens!"

Allison's work speaks for itself!!

More to come from Christian Oth Studio on "Friday PHOTOGRAPHY"...

A Newport Wedding Planner: Tip of the Day!

2009-05-28T07:42:00.000-07:00

Wedding Planner Tip of the Day!

For brides looking to order labels, tags, etc. for their gift bags and favors for their wedding...check out MyOwnWeddingLables.com

DIY SECRET TIP: An inexpensive item for your gift bag that is personal and fun are the CD's!! Burn you & your fiance's favorite tunes to CDs, order these pretty labels to match your colors and you have a cool item for your welcome bags that your guests will enjoy even after the wedding... and will think of you!

A Newport Wedding Planner: Tip of the Day!

2009-05-27T07:40:00.000-07:00

This is a long overdue thank you to my talented, creative and patient website designer Mark Reeves, of Reeves Design House.

If you or anyone you know is looking to hire a fabulous web designer give Mark a call...I highly recommend him. I actually found him through Tara Jones Calligraphy's website (posted yesterday). Of course Mark's website is "under construction" but there are links to his work...and the sites he designs speak for themselves.

Thanks Mark for my gorgeous website!

And a special little shout out and thank you to the uber talented and amazing Dawn Masi, for my gorgeous logo...thank you Dawny!

A Newport Wedding Planner: Tip of the Day!

2009-05-26T07:38:00.000-07:00

I am really excited about today's post...

My friend Tara Jones has a SECRET to share with us!

Here are some samples of Tara's work...it is simply exquisite and she is such a pleaure to work with!!

Tara's SECRET...

"I REALLY love to write. In fact, everyday that I write (I do take days
off occasionally, not often), but everyday that I write, I always write
something that I'm not getting paid to write. Just as my hobby. I'm very
thankful that my work is something that I truly love. I even wrote a high

school English paper in calligraphy."!

For "brides on a budget" who are interested in addressing their own invitations...Tara shared these great SECRETS with us as well:

1. give yourself time (oh gosh I know this is difficult for a bride).
2. order white or off-white unlined envelopes
3. order plenty of extra envelopes (10-20% more than you think you'll need).
4. DO NOT buy a calligraphy pen, just a regular writing pen from an office
supply store will work fine. Black ink.
5. Use an index card to keep the lines straight.

Tara, your work is beautiful!! Thank you for sharing your secrets and suggestions for "brides on a budget" with us! Thank you also for this beautiful letter you wrote me...it is so pretty I want to frame it :-)

Newport Wedding Photographer- Peter Silvia

2009-05-22T07:37:00.001-07:00

This special "Friday PHOTOGRAPHY" before Memorial Day Weekend is dedicated to my friend Peter Silvia Photography of Newport, Rhode Island.

The SECRET to Peter Silvia...he is not only a photographer but a designer as well! He creates StoryBooks for every client that allow you to relive your special day, telling your visual "story" through the elegant photos he captures. These StoryBooks become an heirloom you can cherish and pass down for generations.

Peter has a special touch and grace to his photographs and a way of capturing the timelessness of Newport, Rhode Island.

If you are anything like me and obsessed with photography... you should follow Peter Silvia's Blog as well!

Newport Wedding Vendors- Bellevue Productions

2009-05-22T07:37:00.000-07:00

I was on the Snap! Happy blog and saw this amazing video I wanted to share with you...I definitely had a laugh!

My friend Bob Manning at Bellevue Productions shot this wedding...what great footage you captured.

AND thank goodness for Mariah & Giggles, they "Saved the Veil"!!

Looks like this couple and friends were a lot of fun despite the overcast skies & veil mishap...they went on to have a seriously fun wedding at Belle Mer in Newport, Rhode Island.

I mean look at these awesome shots Mariah (Snap! Photography) took of the entrance of this bridal party (not to mention the bride was dribbling a basketball in her wedding dress)...talk about a fun group! I wish I was invited ;-)

Check out some more samples from the Screening Room of Bellevue Productions based out of Newport, Rhode Island.

Newport Wedding Invitations and Paperie

2009-05-20T07:36:00.000-07:00

Talk about hip Brooklyn STYLE! I had the pleasure of meeting Dabney Lee at the Stationary Show, she is absolutely lovely. She introduced me her fabulous products for the home and every-day lifestyle items. She combines bright colors with fun patterns for a "happy-snappy-preppy" feel!

I love the idea of ordering these coasters for your wedding or rehearsal dinner (instead of the paper napkins) these are way more fabulous. I just suggested them to one of my brides for a clambake. You can customize them and choose the pattern, monogram, & colors you like. I love the lucite box they come in...the perfect hostess gift.

SECRET: Dabney has them on her coffee table at all times to add a splash of fun color!

Anther fabulous hostess gift...or maybe you just need one for yourself ;- ) these lucite trays can be customized with all of Dabney's exciting patterns. What a fun way to serve drinks to your guests on a hot summer day.

SECRET: Dabney suggests using this tray on your desk to keep yourself organized...the perfect "catch-all"!

Last, but not least I love these monogrammed wall art Dabney has! What a fun way to decorate a space, give as a gift for a mom-to-be or use in your office (like Dabney) for that pop of color to brighten the day.

The last MAJOR SECRET: Along with all her other cool products and papers, Dabney Lee just came out with her own line of wedding invitations!!

Yes, everyone has fresh, new lines coming out this year, but what I love about Dabney's is that it has her signature STYLE at affordable prices. You will have to check back to get a sneak peek at her invitations!

Photography Credit: Courtesy of Dabney Lee.

Newport Wedding Invitations and Paperie

2009-05-20T07:34:00.000-07:00

A full week dedicated to invitations. More on...Dauphine Press!

At the show I had the opportunity of meeting the lovely Trish Kinsella, founder of Dauphine Press in 1999. Check out their Green Statement.

Kendra, their client services manager, also was a delight and introduced me to their new line Coral which debuted at the show!

I got the sneak peek and it is a great alternative to their other line. Coral is more budget conscious, combining pricing into set packages and allowing you to change the inks, fonts & liners at no additional cost. Any custom work to these can be done of course, but there is a great variety of designs to fit all types of events from country to barns to ballroom. To complete the line the offer the entire suite from matching menu cards to save-the-dates and more.

Here is a sneak peak at their line "Coral"...it is hot off the press!!

Check out these other Dauphine Press items!

Social Events

They have fun holiday and adorable baby announcements as well!

Personal Stationary

BTW I love these social cards & note cards!!

Save-The-Date

These multi-information cards are also great to included with the invitation if you send another form of STD.

Newport, Rhode Island -Wedding Style

2009-05-20T07:32:00.000-07:00

Wanting to wear a designer gown for a fraction of the price...there is only one place to shop for

it...PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com.

It is by far the best place to sell your wedding dress...and a fantastic way to find the dress of your dreams & save thousands of dollars!

There are more than 2200 wedding dresses listed for sale on their website.
It only costs $25 for the year or until the dress sells! Unlike Ebay which is a waist of time & money.
No commission is charged to the sale price, unlike other websites.
Buyers can search by designer, size, silhouette, neckline, location...it is so easy to find and so many to choose from.
Most dresses sell in less than 3 months.

Here are a few fabulous finds...

Kenneth Pool by Amsale Concerto, Price Paid:$5,600; Asking Price: $2900

It was only worn for 3 hours

then the bride changed into her next dress!

(& dry cleaned the day after the wedding)

Melissa Sweet Ruby, Price Paid: $3,500, Asking Price: $2000

Jim Helm JH8859: Paid Price: $4,000; Asking Price:$1,800

Another SECRET, they just added an Accessories search, so you can buy & sell your matching veil and headpiece as well.

I love it because everyone is happy, the bride selling & the bride buying...this STYLE tip for your wedding dress is one of my biggest STYLE SECRETS...now CBS The Early Show is on to them :-) check it out!!

SAYING "I Do" in A Recession -

How To Find The Perfect Wedding Dress

Without Breaking The Bank.

Photography Credits: Courtesy of PreOwnedWeddingDresses.com

Newport Wedding Invitations and Paperie

2009-05-19T07:35:00.000-07:00

I was so excited to stop by and see my friends at Haute Papier out of Washington, DC!

We are working together with one of my clients right now and they are fabulous to work with and do beautiful work!

A little SECRET...they do their own Letterpress right in their studio in Georgetown!

Here are some of their Couture Invitations!

Here is a line from their Le Catalogue.

The great thing about this line, which just launched at the show, is that couples can choose to letterpress their invitations, but if they are on a budget they can still have the great designs and flat print some or all of the pieces!

Check back in the next few weeks as we will have a great interview Sarah & Erin @ Haute Papier on Invitation Etiquette and a peak at the custom Save-The-Date we recently did together for one of my clients!

Newport Wedding Invitations and Paperie

2009-05-18T07:34:00.000-07:00

A full week dedicated to invitations. More on...Dauphine Press!

At the show I had the opportunity of meeting the lovely Trish Kinsella, founder of Dauphine Press in 1999. Check out their Green Statement.

Kendra, their client services manager, also was a delight and introduced me to their new line Coral which debuted at the show!

Here is a sneak peak at their line "Coral"...it is hot off the press!!

Check out these other Dauphine Press items!

Social Events

They have fun holiday and adorable baby announcements as well!

Personal Stationary

BTW I love these social cards & note cards!!

Save-The-Date

These multi-information cards are also great to included with the invitation if you send another form of STD.

Newport Wedding Invitations and Paperie

2009-05-18T07:33:00.000-07:00

Today I attended the National Stationary Show @ The Jacob Javitz Center in NYC. What a day!!!

I am excited to share with you all my SECRETS from the show.

I thought I would start by featuring these "snarky" cards!!

Here are Randi & Stacey's www.HardCardsRule.com

Lots of sweet, stylish, simple, sophisticated bridal STATIONARY SECRETS to come!

Newport Wedding Vendors- Live Arists

2009-05-17T07:30:00.000-07:00

One of my current clients getting married up in Newport, Rhode Island is interested in hiring a

professional artist to come and paint their wedding!

You may have seen this on Platinum Weddings...it can be a wonderful memory, experience and keepsake or a great gift for a bride & groom.

I have suggested we hire Live Event Artists based out of Southern California. They have artists around the country and travel to any destination!

All of these are by their artist Tom...love his STYLE.

Here is one from Castle Hill in Newport, Rhode Island!

SECRET... Paul at Broadway Florist did those gorgeous flowers!

Here are some other of their artists...

Artist-Jimmy

Artist-Lynn

Artist-Sergio

Artist- Shawn

If you decide after the wedding you want to recreate a painting from a photograph they can be hired for that as well...great Anniversary gift!

SECRET: I have others painters as well at varying price points...I just can't give away ALL my SECRETS.

Photography Credits: Courtesy of LiveEventArtists.com

Newport & Destination Wedding Photographer- f8Studio

2009-05-16T07:29:00.000-07:00

When looking for a wedding photographer for Deena & Shawn's destination wedding this past January, I suggested f8Studio with Huy, Gary & Kym.

A SECRET about f8studio...they recently received the honor of being in the top 10 wedding studio's in the world voted by our peers and the editors of American Photo!!

Their photos speak for themselves...and awesome to work with.

What a find!! Their STYLE is unique, fun, and quirky. They scream STYLE. Everyone wants "photojournalistic", as a former photo editor the word is totally overused. Although here it applies!!

Check out Deena & Shawn's wedding photos by f8studio (scroll to Ceiba del Mar)!

Newport Wedding Invitations and Paperie

2009-05-15T07:28:00.000-07:00

Mariana at Kate's introduced me to these FABULOUS Dauphine letterpress invitations...great for destination weddings to set the tone!

Very Vreeland... Mansion... Tea House

Simply Starfishes... Sun... Sea

Wishing for Waves... Nautical

Perfect for Palm Beach

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE...LETTERPRESS!!

Check out more to come by Dauphine.

Newport, Rhode Island -Wedding Style

2009-05-15T07:25:00.000-07:00

Bridal Shoe Shopping SECRETS:

THE DOS & DONT'S

Don't buy a shoe that hurts in the store, SIMPLE.
Don't try and convince yourself they will break in...big mistake.
Do wear them prior to the wedding to break them in.
Do purchase your shoes before your first fitting.
Don't wear a heel height you are not used to normally wearing.
Do care about the STYLE of the shoe...it is your wedding shoe.
Do wear a wear a pointy shoe in the fall or winter, a peep toe or sandal for spring and summer.

Do think about wearing shoes made of fabrics with satin, silk lace, beading or crystal.
Do consider a strap around the ankle, it is a great for a high heel to keep it secure.
Do consider wearing gold or silver or a shade darker than the dress.
Do consider a bold satin color to match your color scheme, just be careful with this.
Don't feel you need to be perfectly matchy matchy.
Do consider comfort over STYLE.
Do have a pair of shoes you have worn many times on hand for the end of the night, especially if you want to consider STYLE over comfort.
Do not be a barefoot bride on the dance floor, unless you are on the beach.
Do remember... when all else fails, stick with SIMPLE and elegant!

Photography Credits: Courtesy of Christian Oth Studio & f8Studio

Newport, Rhode Island -Wedding Style

2009-05-10T07:24:00.000-07:00

In honor of the New York Times Sunday Styles section (a must read every Sunday for NYC STYLE and of course the Wedding Announcments!) ... I will have my own "Sunday STYLE." blog post. Another MUST read!

The First 'Sunday STYLE.'

Check out these fabulous Cole Haan bridal shoes! They are not only STYLISH, but are dyeable, cushioned for comfort & have Nike Air technology.

I will let you in on a little SECRET...guess who they are named after?

The line is called "Ceci Air" after Ceci New York...the also very fabulous invitation designer, Lisa Hoffman (aka Ceci) consulted on the line & they are named after her!

Another SECRET: Lisa's bridemaids wore tham at her own wedding & died them red!!

Check out tomorrow's post on Bridal Shoe Shopping!

Newport Wedding Photographer- Carrie Rodman Wedding Photography

2009-05-08T07:23:00.000-07:00

A little SECRET about me...check out my bio first ;-) Yes, I am SECRETLY obsessed with wedding photography (if you couldn't tell already). My love for photography started in college at Boulder, CO (Go Buffs!) with a bachelor of fine art degree in photography and a nine year career as a photo editor in NYC.

In honor of my love for photography, I have decided that every Friday will be dedicated to just photography. I promise there will still be lots of photography ALL the time (can't get enough), but always on Fridays!

This first 'Friday Photography' I am featuring my dear friend Carrie Rodman Wedding Photography in Newport, Rhode Island. We have known each other from back in our editorial days in NYC. Carrie spent 15 years as a commercial photographer...we have worked together on fashion, beauty & kids shoots for some of the biggest magazines in the country!

This is only one of Carrie's SECRETS to her success as a wedding photographer, yet she still shoots commercially and works out of her gorgeous studio right off Bellevue Ave. in Newport, RI...LightWave Studio. It was just fate that we both entered Weddings & Newport around the same time. I even got to plan a dual launch event in 2007 for her.

Love you girl!

And of course your work...

Video of Michelle & John's Engagement Shoot- Buzz Media Company

2009-05-07T07:20:00.000-07:00

Michelle & John quicktime

Michelle & John flash

As promised, here is the link above to Buzz Media Company's video of Michelle & John (check Mariah, Trish & I at work).

Mike had the creative idea to interview each of them separately at The Chanler prior to the shoot. Brilliant!!

This is something you won't find on wedding day footage. The relaxed nature, the casual feel and the SIMPLICITY of the moments...not to mention your style Mike is just FABULOUS!

You are such a talent...Buzz Media Company is my most recent treasured SECRET.

Michelle & John's Engagement Shoot

2009-05-06T07:18:00.000-07:00

Last month I spent a weekend in Newport, RI with Michelle & John (and Michelle's amazing family) to meet with vendors and venues for their wedding this August. What a fun weekend filled with great memories (for me too)!

My friend Nick at The Chanler at Cliff Walk made sure they were all well taken care of...what a luxurious place to stay and also a magnificent place to get married!

We then had a trial run for Michelle's hair & makeup. Courtney & Leah from New Leaf Hair Studio and my great friend Maggie Leonard (she was a national rep for Laura Mercier!) transformed Michelle...this styling team can take on my stylists from my Glamour Magazine days, no joke.

Michelle & I even did a little shopping in town and we found her this stylish navy & white blazer for the shoot at Chance N' Lulu in Newport.

Producing this shoot I was totally in my element. My SECRET...the AMAZING Mariah & Trish from Snap! Photography and Mike Cyr from Buzz Media Co. Talk about STYLE!

Here are the Snap! photos (right out of the pages of Vogue).

Tomorrow you can see the video, you won't want to miss it!!

Michelle & John you are too cute for words!

My First Blog Post!

2009-05-05T07:17:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my blog!

I am excited to be entering this world of blogging.

Hope you enjoy & visit often!

Raina

Photography Credit: f8studio