Tuesday, December 14, 2010
It! Inspiration: Christmas Eve Elegance
It! Inspiration table from Between Naps on the Porch; Christmas ornaments from Saks Fifth Avenue; Vera Wang for Wedgwood "with love" stemware from Bloomingdale's; Colonial sterling silver candelabras from Silver Gift Store; "Trousdale" dinnerware from Neiman Marcus
Thursday, December 9, 2010
It! Inspiration: Winter Wedding
Why should Spring get all the glory? We adore winter weddings. After all, what better theme to inspire guests to cozy up with one another as the snow falls?
It! Inspiration: Set a wintry holiday table
Santa table decor from Pottery Barn; Christmas tree place cards from Martha Stewart; lollipops from Maxwell House of Design; Rosemary tree centerpieces from Interior Design
Friday, December 3, 2010
The Festival of Trees has begun! Join us at Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens Dec. 3-12
The event benefits the garden's Community Enrichment Program, designed to provide cultural opportunities to all populations through innovative programming incorporating the visual arts, environmental awareness and interpretive history of Ann Weaver Norton.
Family and friends of all ages are invited to the gala, with tickets available for $200 for adults (ANSG members $150) and $25 per child. Gentlemen of the Garden will present Community Days with $10 admission (children $5) Dec. 4 and 5 and Dec. 8-12.
For more information on Festival of Trees or the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, call (561) 832-5328 or email annnorton@ansg.org. To view the latest schedule of events at the garden, please visit www.ansg.org.
The Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, Inc. is a recognized 501(c)3 operating foundation established in 1977 by the prominent sculptor Ann Weaver Norton (1905-1982). The gardens are conveniently located at 253 Barcelona Road, at the corner of Flagler Drive in West Palm Beach, FL. The rare palm and sculpture gardens, exhibition galleries and artist studio are currently open Wednesday-Sunday. 11- 4 p.m.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Attention, sports fans!
When one of our favorite It! Girls called upon It! Weddings & Events to create a fun and fabulous bar mitzvah to celebrate her son's rite of passage, we imagined everything from personal appearances by the Miami Dolphins cheerleaders to a laser-lit driving range for the young sports fans.
But a more tasteful kiddush luncheon affair was in order for friends and family. This fun video montage by LaFrance Films helped share young Andrew's sense of humor (and athletic prowess) while guests enjoyed an elegant three-course luncheon at Pistache French Bistro in West Palm Beach.
To create the montage, we put our heads together to collect the greatest moments in sports history. Photographer Alexi Sheilds captured Andrew's expressive images, and Michael LaFrance brought it all together, compiling video with the edited images and a fist-pumping soundtrack.
Andrew's Video Montage from Michael LaFrance on Vimeo.
It! Inspiration: Giving Thanks in Style
It's also a great time to set the kind of table that will keep your family (even your mother-in-law!) gabbing about your great taste throughout the holiday season! After all, who wouldn't be thankful for a few well-placed compliments? Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Gobble gobble.
xoxo
The It! Girls
Organic centerpieces from Bear Flag Farm; Cornucopia inspired centerpiece with sunflowers, gourds, and other fall vegetables from Better Homes and Gardens; "Flocking Together" Thanksgiving table setting from Martha Stewart; Autumn Harvest centerpiece with a variety of small gourds, squash, cones, and pods from Country Living; A healthy side dish of dried fruit and toasted nut stuffing from Whole Living
Monday, November 22, 2010
Save the Date: Dec. 3, Festival of Trees Gala Opening!
One of our favorite Palm Beach events each year is the Festival of Trees to benefit Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens. With more than 30 designer Christmas trees, Christmas carolers, a holiday boutique and more, it is just what we need to get us in the holiday spirit here in balmy South Florida — the delicious noshes and open bar during the Gala Opening doesn't hurt, either!
Festival of Trees kicks off with its annual Gala Opening on Friday, Dec. 3, and benefits the garden's Community Enrichment Program, designed to provide cultural opportunities to all populations through innovative programming incorporating the visual arts, environmental awareness and interpretive history of Ann Weaver Norton.
Chaired by Karyn Lamb and Mieke Van Waveren, Decorator Chair Joseph Pubillones and Honorary Chair David Miller, committee members include Robin Azqueta, Diana Bell, Jeff Blakely, Jonathan Cameron-Hayes, ,Joanne Colt, Chrissy Colton, Millie Dayton, Aime Dunstan, Jenny Garrigues, Amy Guerrieri, Austin Hancock, Margaret Horgan, Karyn Janssen, Kelly Kirkpatrick, Brian Kirkpatrick, Dana Krentschmar, Heléné Lorentzen, Denise McCann, David Miller, Tara Nicoletti, Eileen and John Otto, Joseph Pubillones, Analisa Ramos-Estaban, Chad Renfro, Jennifer Rodriguez, True Rodriguez, Ashley and Michael Ramos, Denise Silverman, Sandy Singer, Tracy Smith, Linda Soper, Diana Speight, Tricia Taylor and Emmy Wolbach.
The Gala Opening will Feature GREY GOOSE Vodka by Bacardi U.S.A. Inc. and fine foods by Rock Star Catering Company, Marky Caviar, The Breakers Palm Beach, Whole Food Markets, Sushi Jo and Opici Wines Company of Florida. Other sponsors include Gentlemen of the Garden, KOOL 105.5 FM, Palm Beach Illustrated, The Palm Beach Post, Imishmailmerritt Photography, Tree Towne Christmas Trees and House of Lavande.
West Boca Raton High School Choir, Palm Beach Atlantic University’s Stringendo School For Strings, BAK Middle School of the Arts Chorus, the Florida Classical Ballet Theatre and Palm Beach Atlantic University’s “Brass 5” are set to perform.
Family and friends of all ages are invited to the gala, with tickets available for $200 for adults (ANSG members $125) and $25 per child. Gentlemen of the Garden will present Community Days with $15 admission (children $5) Dec. 4 and 5 and Dec. 8-12.
For more information on Festival of Trees or the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, call (561) 832-5328 or email annnorton@ansg.org. To view the latest schedule of events at the garden, please visit www.ansg.org.
The Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, Inc. is a recognized 501(c)3 operating foundation established in 1977 by the prominent sculptor Ann Weaver Norton (1905-1982). The gardens are conveniently located at 253 Barcelona Road, at the corner of Flagler Drive in West Palm Beach, FL. The rare palm and sculpture gardens, exhibition galleries and artist studio are currently open Wednesday-Sunday. 11- 4 p.m.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Back Yard as Ballroom
House too small for a hundred houseguests? No great room, formal dining room or even elbow room? No problem! Take the party outside and make al fresco memories.
For an afternoon Sip 'n' See in honor of Juliana Elizabeth, our youngest It! Girl, we set round tables in the garden with folding chairs and rustic burlap linens. To enhance Mother Nature's verdant backdrop, we tied fresh jasmine to mauve napkins, and planted budding carnations in mason jars trimmed with twine (guests were invited to take them home to plant in their own gardens). Lanterns were lined with family photos, and piles of miniature lady apples kept the organic feel going.
On the patio, glass vessels filled with gala apples, bosc pears and black mission figs complemented a simple menu of crudites, charcuterie and artisinal cheeses. Mini cupcakes by The Sugar Monkey — chocolate-peanut butter, pumpkin spice and vanilla — invited guests to nibble. Champagne punch, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir rounded out the beverage selections (plus sodas and juices for the kiddos!).
But don't take our word for it: Check out these lovely photos by LILA PHOTO!
Monday, November 8, 2010
Devil's Night draws 500 for annual costume bash!
Body paint, prosthetic chest hair and larger-than-life candy dots were key costuming elements among the 500 revelers crowding Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens on Oct. 29.
Hosted by Gentlemen of the Gardens, Devil’s Night is one of the biggest and best-attended events to benefit the landmark property. And despite a $50 ticket price increase (guests paid $150-$300 each to attend), this year’s event broke all previous records, raising $50,000.
“It is the GOG's most successful event and Devil's Night to date,” said event co-chair Dack Patriarca.
Guests included honorary chairman Todd Herbst and wife Brandie, chairmen Kevin Clark and Dack Patriarca, Ladies Committee co-chairs Hilary Jordan and yours truly, plus Gentlemen of the Garden president Jonathan Cameron-Hayes, committee members Loy Anderson, Ryan Bridger, Christopher Dunstan and Jay Holmes.
Bobby Leidy took first place in the costume contest, winning a two-night stay at Sunset Key Cottages in Key West for his interpretation of Richard Simmons. “Avatar” Kirsten Braden nabbed second place and a two-day Porsche rental from Chariots of Palm Beach, and Kelly Murray’s vintage Barbie costume landed her a spa package at Jupiter Beach Resort.
Live music from the newly reinvented Big Bang Radio, along with free-flowing Ketel One Vodka cocktails, multiple open bars and ice luges, and food stations from Grease Burger Bar, Rocco’s Tacos, City Cellar and City Oyster kept the crowd entertained. Later, Pistache French Bistro served up bite-sized desserts, and the party continued at Monarchy Nightclub in downtown West Palm Beach.
Devil’s Night sponsors include the Big Time Restaurant Group (Rocco’s Tacos, Grease Burger Bar, City Cellar and City Oyster & Sushi Bar), Stephanie and Lamont Harris, Chariots of Palm Beach, Downtown at the Gardens, Monarchy, Monster Energy, Mario Nievera Design Inc., Palm Beach Medical, Pistache French Bistro, VIP – Very Important Paws, Hy-Lite Productions Inc., United Rentals, Dunstan Designs, It! Weddings & Events and Mac Fabrics.
For more information on upcoming events and exhibitions at Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens, log on to www.ansg.org or call (561) 832-5328.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
It! Inspiration: Halloween Desserts
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
It! Inspiration: Halloween Decor
Pumpkin food presentation by Country Living; Spider decorated door by Martha Stewart; Head-waiter tray by Martha Stewart; Vampire Dinner Party with Blood Red Wine from Pizzazzerie; Outside witch and cat decor from The Tasteful Life; Mini pumpkin place holder from Inmagine
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Thursday, October 7, 2010
18 Spooktakular Menu Options
PUMPKIN PARMESAN PUFFS
DEVILED EGGS
STUFFED FUNGUS (Mushrooms w/ Sausage)
COCKTAIL SHRIMP with SLIME SAUCE (Green Dill Sauce)
MOLD AND MILDEW CANAPES (Crostini w/ Hot Spinach and Artichoke Topping)
MINI BRAIN BURGERS w/ BLOOD SAUCE (Sirloin Burgers on Silver Dollar Rolls)
BULGING EYEBALLS (Cherry Tomatoes with Mozzarella and Pesto)
MINI BAT SANDWICHES (choose from tuna, egg, ham, chicken salad, turkey, roast beef)
Monster Dinner Buffet
FRANKENSTEIN CHILI BUG RICE (Rice with Peppers, Onions and Roasted corn)
WITCHES STEW (Curried Chicken and Apples)
BAKED GOBLIN (Penne Pasta with Chicken and Roasted Red Peppers)
UNCLE FESTER'S DEVILED CRAB CAKES AND LERCH'S SAUCE
BAT'S NESTS AND EYEBALL MEATBALLS
Vampire Delights
Pumpkin Pie Tartlets
Pumpkin Brownies
Decorated Halloween Cupcakes
Customized Halloween Cookies available
Not your average girl!
We were honored to have been interviewed by Alyson Seligman of The Average Girl's Guide, a blog that focuses on celebrating the everyday joys in life — a great deal on hot boots for fall, a healthy recipe, a great tip for staying organized.
Check out our tips for taking home entertaining from average to above & beyond:
Must-Know tips for the Well-Heeled Hostess: Aime Dunstan
1. What are affordable/creative ways to decorate a table? Are there a few things I should always have on hand?
Classic charger from Pier 1 Imports |
RED-HOT inspiration board. Aime develops these for clients to envision events. |
2. What are good dinner party themes? Wait, should I even have a theme?
Safari-themed dinner party |
Green inspiration board for Aime's clients. |
Q: I sometimes get stressed about what to serve. Any suggestions? Should I do a big dish like paella so it's a dish and side all rolled in to one or make individual pieces of fish, steak, etc.?
Whether you’re serving up a one-dish meal or a multicourse feast, it should be a menu you’re comfortable preparing, and one where the majority of the prep work can be done before your guests arrive. The scents of your home-cooked meal will permeate the air (yum!), and you’ll be relaxed and at ease to entertain your guests. No one likes a frantic hostess!
Ina's 'perfect roast chicken.' Classic. |
I love Ina Garten’s “Barefoot Contessa” cookbooks for party recipes. They’re elegant, easy and classic. Just be sure to do a trial run of your menu before the big event so you can adjust the seasonings to your taste the second time around.
Also, be sure and make a quick phone call or send a quick email to find out about your guest’s allergies or dietary restrictions. Pork and seafood dishes can be a huge hit — but not for the guest who’s left to side dishes and salad because you weren’t aware of his or her dietary restrictions.
Don’t let this thought limit your menu to chicken and potatoes — snooze — just make a few calls to cover your bases and let your culinary talents shine!
Q: Are there a few things I can always have in my pantry or fridge to be able to serve up if anyone comes over last minute?
Want more advice from Aime?
Visit Aime and see her gorgeous holiday tablescapes at Table It! at Neiman Marcus Palm Beach on Thurs., Oct. 14 from 1:30 to 4:30 pm. While there, get a taste of the holiday season from Neiman Marcus Epicure Collection and Teaforte. The display continues through Oct. 18.
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Join It! Girl Aime Dunstan on Oct. 9 for Tea & Tastings
LaFrance Films captures Fashion's Night Out by It! Weddings & Events!
It! Weddings & Events had the pleasure of helping ensure the success of this event through partnerships with The Sugar Monkey, Pistache French Bistro, Omphoy Ocean Resort, Bulletproof Wine & Spirits, CaptureSET, Elan Artists and more — not to mention the It! Boys & Girls who showcased their talents at the event!
Whether you were one of the few to miss all the fun, or you just want to relive this amazing night, check out this video by LaFrance Films, which captures all the fun and excitement!
Fashion's Night Out Palm Beach from Michael LaFrance on Vimeo.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
It! Interview: Delray Beach Marriott Certified Wedding Specialist
Angie Smythe Director of Events, Certified Wedding Specialist at the Delray Beach Marriott
What she's obsessed with: “Good Eats!!"
What is so 2009: Candy Bars - try new inventive ways to treat our guests, such as Liquid Dessert Bars
Is it better to pick a date or wedding ceremony/reception venue first?
Wedding Ceremony/Reception Venue First – don’t limit yourself!!
Are amenity baskets in a restroom tacky or tres convenient?
Convenient — or at least your guest thinks so!!
Is it appropriate for couples to go over the top for a second or third wedding?
Let’s keep it simple...
Most catering contracts include a service charge. Who might warrant a gratuity for going above and beyond?
Your Dream Team: Maître d', chef concierge, wedding planner and band.
What are three fun ways to add to the atmosphere of a formal wedding reception?
1. Family Style Dining
2. Variety in table sizes (tables of 6, 8 or 10)
3. Lighting
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
It! Obsession: Marchesa by Lenox
Like palace grounds with meticulous landscaping, Palatial Garden is a study in detail. The accent plate is a work of art in itself showcasing a majestic pheasant. Luscious chocolate and turquoise hues banded in precious gold accent beautiful floral designs to create this regal pattern.
This stylish platinum-banded pattern features charcoal-like florals that decorate the rim and interior of each piece. Inspired by the designs found in an artist’s sketchbook, Floral Illustrations serves as the perfect canvas for any meal.
Friday, September 17, 2010
Fashion's Night Out Draws 500 to Neiman Marcus Palm Beach
Without question, Neiman Marcus was the It! place to be for Fashion’s Night Out in Palm Beach on Friday, Sept. 10. More than 500 of the island’s beloved fashionistas flocked to the Worth Avenue store as part of VOGUE magazine’s nationwide fashion industry celebration.
Beth Pine, Vice President and General Manager of Neiman Marcus Palm Beach, was on hand to dish on the season’s hottest trends, noting fur, feathers, structured handbags, pantsuits, military chic and hues of green are a few must-haves for fall.
“Fashion's Night Out was celebrated at the most glamorous locations around the world, officially marking the start of Fall fashion season," said Pine. "It was such an honor to host the biggest event in town. Palm Beach was ready to party!”
A focal point of the evening was a live demonstration a la “Project Runway,” when three celebrity It! Boys selected by It! Weddings & Events for their creative vision showcased their interpretations of the latest fall trends using live models and raw materials like bubble wrap, butcher block paper, doilies and feathers. Wedding and event designer Jeff Fowler, artist and Center for Creative Education Assistant Director Kevin Murray, and interior designer Reginald Dunlap of Gray Perez Design Group had the crowd cheering and begging for more as they added the finishing touches to their inventive ensembles, respectively titled “Road Warrior,” “Rock & Lace,” and “The Bubble.”
Also selected by It! Weddings & Events, four celebrity It! Girls brought fashion trends to the table with glamorous fall tabletop designs. Neiman Marcus Palm Beach donated $250 toward the organizations represented by It! Girls Angela Culveyhouse, auction chair of the 2011 Heart Ball to benefit American Heart Association on Feb. 14; Aime Dunstan, chair of the “Feather Wars” opening exhibition to benefit the Pat and Richard Johnson Palm Beach County History Museum and Historical Society of Palm Beach County on Nov. 30; Hilary Jordan, Ladies Committee co-chair of Devil’s Night to benefit Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens on Oct. 20; and Diana Perry, chair of Over the Big Top to benefit Center for Creative Education on Nov. 6.
The evening also included a live runway presentation featuring the latest in ready-to-wear and couture, as well as cuisine by Pistache French Bistro, Michelle Bernstein’s at The Omphoy Ocean Resort and Christafaro’s Catering. It! Weddings & Events served up verdant candies from two designer dessert bars, and The Sugar Monkey turned out more than 500 customized cupcakes from the It! Cupcake Bar.
Guests joined in a live fashion shoot in the CaptureSET pop-up studio while music by Elan Artists and DJ Nick Flash kept up the tempo. Echo mixologist Charles Steadman poured signature cocktails including Blue Feather Vodka, and Bulletproof Wine & Spirits offered a white wine tasting to round out the evening’s menu of events.
It Weddings & Events specializes in the discerning taste of Palm Beach, Nantucket, the Hamptons and beyond, ensuring the elegance and extravagance of your wedding, fund-raiser or special event. For more information, call 561.801.0767 or log on to www.itweddingsandevents.com.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
It! Destination: Bear Flag Farm
Bear Flag Farm opens its doors to just 15 events per season (May to October), ensuring a celebration that's short on pretense and long on personal attention. Surrounded by orchards, lavender fields and mesmerizing rows of organic produce, the California estate incorporates proprietary olive oil, wine, fruits, vegetables and herbs into each personalized farm-t0-table menu.
For more information, contact the It! Girls or Bear Flag Farm.
xoxo
Kelly