http://mementoandco.com Memento & Co. is Denver's premier choice for wedding & event planning solutions! Wed, 21 Dec 2011 17:45:00 +0000 http://snappages.com en http://mementoandco.com/blog/2011/12/21/make-a-statement-2012-trends-ideas http://mementoandco.com/blog/2011/12/21/make-a-statement-2012-trends-ideas Wed, 21 Dec 2011 17:45:00 +0000 http://mementoandco.com/blog/2011/12/21/make-a-statement-2012-trends-ideas
INTERACTIVE
There is an increase of wedding vendors that are taking old-fashion services and turning them into an interactive and engaging activity for you and your guests. For example:

1) Bike Caffe: www.bikecaffe.com: Make dessert interesting by offering your guests the chance to order from a coffee bar. These bike cafe's can be decorated and designed to match your color palette and theme! Denver brides – contact Brandon or Jay at 303.875.1508 for information on how to book this totally unique vendor!

2) Red Door Photo Booth: www.reddoorphotobooth.com: Your guests will have a chance to let loose and take a little something home with them as a keepsake of your big day. With a photo booth you can email pictures to yourself and post them to your personal Facebook page right there from the booth! Complete with fun props and various backgrounds, this is truly one of our favorite ideas. Contact Kassi Hovey for more information at kassi@reddoorphotobooth.com.

PERSONALIZED
Ok we admit - this is nothing new to the wedding industry... BUT here is an up and coming vendor that is taking personalization to a new level....and we love it!

1) Bridal Shoes: www.thepaintedshoe.com: We can't tell you how many brides come to us venting about how they cannot find the perfect shoe for their gown. Look no further! Jessica & Jennifer Myler can personalize any shoe to match your bridal gown. Check out their amazing gallery and contact them at thepaintedshoe@gmail.com for more information.


Remember, as you embark on the beginning stages of planning your big day...JUST HAVE FUN!


Happy planning,
Benjamin

]]> http://mementoandco.com/blog/2011/12/06/wedding-playlists-jazz-up-your-cocktail-hour http://mementoandco.com/blog/2011/12/06/wedding-playlists-jazz-up-your-cocktail-hour Tue, 06 Dec 2011 17:26:00 +0000 http://mementoandco.com/blog/2011/12/06/wedding-playlists-jazz-up-your-cocktail-hour
Create a playlist that you can start after the ceremony is over. My favorite genre for cocktail hour is Jazz. The style of jazz music provides melodies that are up-beat and slow, PLUS you can mix it up with instrumental songs too.

Some cool facts about designing your jazz playlist:
- Save money by putting these songs on your ipod
- Music makes it feel like time is moving quickly
- Find Jazz CD's at places like Target and Best Buy



But before you go out and venture upon the world of music, take a look at my playlist below. These are my top 20 favorite cocktail hour jazz songs. You wont be disappointed. And the best part – these 20 songs equal 1.5 hours of music...just enough to cover your cocktail hour and then some!

1. Sophie Milman – “I Can't Give You Anything But Love”
2. Rick Braun - “Sao Paulo”
3. Renee Olstead - “A Love That Will Last”
4. Oscar Peterson - “Easy Does It”
5. Norah Jones - “I've Got to See You Again”
6. Michael Buble - “The Way You Look Tonight”
7. Juan Carlos Quintero - “Alma Libre”
8. John Stevens - “I Only Have Eyes For You”
9. Frank Sinatra - “In The Still of the Night”
10. Erin Boheme – “What Love Is”
11. Diana Krall - “The Look of Love”
12. Deborah Cox - “What a Difference a Day Made”
13. Dean Martin - “Just In Time”
14. The Chris Sidwell Quartet - “Satin Doll”
15. Chris Botti – “La Belle Dame Sans Regrets”
16. Billie Holiday - “More Than You Know”
17. Taylor Eigsti - “Love For Sale”
18. Caro Emerald - “A Night Like This”
19. Etta James - “Sunday Kind of Love”
20. Corinne Bailey Rae - “Breathless”


Cheers,
Benjamin

]]> http://mementoandco.com/blog/2011/12/05/2012-denver-bridal-shows http://mementoandco.com/blog/2011/12/05/2012-denver-bridal-shows Mon, 05 Dec 2011 16:06:00 +0000 http://mementoandco.com/blog/2011/12/05/2012-denver-bridal-shows
There are several reasons for this. [...]]]>
There are several reasons for this. The most important reason is that you will be inspired on determining ideas that relate to your theme, colors, menu styles and so much more! The other great thing is that you can meet and talk with so many vendors that can help answer any questions you have about what to do or how to get started. Additionally – those vendors usually have some great discounts and offers to hand out.

Warning: these shows can be intense and sometimes too much to handle, but remember why you're there (to gather ideas and just ask questions). No decisions have to be made while you're there. In fact – I would not recommend making any hard fast decisions. Why? The world of weddings is grand and there are so many websites and companies to choose from. Take your time and make sure you are truly happy with what you sign up for.

Here is a listing of the upcoming bridal shows in the Denver area according to the Perfect Wedding Guide. Good luck with the initial steps of the planning process! I look forward to meeting with you and your loved one soon.

1) January 8, 2012: Rocky Mountain Bridal Show: Denver, CO

2) January 8, 2012: Bridal Festivals: Loveland, CO

3) January 15, 2012: Colorado Bridal Show: Denver, CO

4) January 22, 2012: Bridal Festivals: Colorado Springs, CO

5) January 28, 2012: Crystal Rose Bridal Show: Colorado Springs, CO

6) January 28, 2012: Crystal Rose Bridal Show: Littleton, CO

7) January 29, 2012: Quality Hill Bridal Show: Denver, CO

8) January 29, 2012: Starry Nights and Twinkle Lights Bridal Show: LaPorte, CO

9) January 29, 2012: Bridal Festivals: Denver, CO


Yours in planning,
Benjamin

]]> http://mementoandco.com/blog/2011/11/10/winter-wedding-made-easy http://mementoandco.com/blog/2011/11/10/winter-wedding-made-easy Thu, 10 Nov 2011 13:49:00 +0000 http://mementoandco.com/blog/2011/11/10/winter-wedding-made-easy
One of my [...]]]>
One of my favorite wedding spots in Colorado is The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa at Beaver Creek. I recently had the opportunity to witness all of the great things going on there and was not only impressed – I was sold. Ok brides...listen up because if a winter setting is what you're looking for then there's no need to look any further.

The Westin Riverfront is located in Avon just at the base of Beaver Creek. The resort offers stunning views of the mountains and streaming rivers from virtually everywhere. Upon arrival you and your guests will instantly be transformed into an atmosphere full of warmth, relaxation and excitement.

The event spaces in this resort are nothing less than ideal for your wedding. The main ballroom features high ceilings and spectacular views and is easily accessible from all of the verandas and patio areas. Its flexible layout can accommodate intimate or large wedding and can be decorated or setup any way that you want it. You can also choose to host your ceremony on the lawn or one of the many patios that each provide mountainous views. A cocktail reception is always fun for your guests and The Westin Riverfront offers the perfect space for it. Located just outside of the main ballroom you will find a built-in bar with plenty of space to setup tables and food. If you are like most of my brides then you are probably looking for unique and creative ideas to bring your wedding day to life. Luckily the resort works with many local vendors, including wedding planners like myself, to help you design and execute those ideas.

My favorite things about The Westin Riverfront are its style and color palette. Whether you're lounging by the fire, dining in the restaurant, indulging in a massage or working out in the fitness center you will feel completely at home. Additionally, the guestrooms feature all of the Heavenly bed + bath products that your guests will love.

Some other great things that are coming soon are an expansion of the fitness club to include hot yoga classes and other activities. The Westin Riverfront is also in the process of expanding their event spaces. A new state-of-the art ballroom will feature glass walls and a kitchen making it perfect for your event. Also coming soon is a new private dining room fit for your rehearsal dinner and other intimate gatherings you may have planned.

The sales and catering staff at The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa are not only knowledgeable about weddings and events, but are also enjoyable to work with. For more information contact Meredith Brewer at Mbrewer@westinriverfrontbeavercreek.com or at 970.790.2004. Tell her Benjamin sent you!


Here's to a perfect winter wedding,
-Benjamin

]]> http://mementoandco.com/blog/2011/02/07/do-me-a-favor http://mementoandco.com/blog/2011/02/07/do-me-a-favor Mon, 07 Feb 2011 22:46:00 +0000 Benjamin http://mementoandco.com/blog/2011/02/07/do-me-a-favor

Here's what I say: Go Edible, Go Personal! Favors are just a simple way to say “thank you for coming”. And, in my experiences guests love taking something home that they can eat later.


Here are a few of my favorite edible favors that also add personalization:

Candy + Chocolate
Websites like www.beau-coup.com offer a variety of favor boxes that you can fill with these sweet endings. Choose a local bakery that is known for a special dish, or have them create one just for your big day! To make it even more personal – try adding personalized ribbon to seal them. Choose from different styles and colors at www.namemaker.com to make the perfect personalized ribbon.

Beverages
There are several companies that offer you the chance add personalized labels to their product. Here are couple that are fun: www.myjones.com , www.weddingwinefavors.com

Recipes
Give each guest a fun cookie cutter with your favorite cookie recipe attached to it. Print it on nice card stock to match your color scheme. Add some ribbon or other accents and you have an attractive piece to add to your place settings. Try www.coppergifts.com for some fun wedding-style cookie cutters.

]]> http://mementoandco.com/blog/2010/02/15/2010-bridal-shows-rocky-mountain-area http://mementoandco.com/blog/2010/02/15/2010-bridal-shows-rocky-mountain-area Mon, 15 Feb 2010 10:16:00 +0000 http://mementoandco.com/blog/2010/02/15/2010-bridal-shows-rocky-mountain-area The Wedding Report, approximately 200,000 couples became engaged over the Valentine's Day weekend last week.

So – I figured today's message only makes sense! In my experiences, attending bridal shows has been greatly beneficial. There are several reasons for this. The most important reason is that you will be inspired on determining ideas that relate to your theme, colors, menu styles and so much more! The other great thing is that you can meet and talk with other couples who may be able to help answer any questions you have about what to do or how to get started. Not to mention, the vendors are consistently friendly and offer great discounts and other deals to couples at the show. My biggest suggestion is that you try to attend the March and April shows, as they are early on in the game and will ensure that you connect with vendors in time to book them for your wedding date.

Here is a listing of the upcoming bridal shows in the Rocky Mountain area according to the Perfect Wedding Guide. Good luck with the initial steps of the planning process! I look forward to meeting with you and hearing about your bridal show experiences.

February:
1) Beautiful Beginnings Bridal Faire: Sunday, 2/28: Colorado Springs, CO
2) Black Canyon Wedding Expo: Sunday, 2/28: Montrose, CO

March:
1) Park Bridal Crawl: Sunday, 3/10: Estes Park, CO
2) Bridal Festivals: Sunday, 3/21: Littleton, CO
3) The Spring Show: Sunday, 3/21: Lyons, CO
4) Free Bridal Show: Sunday, 3/28: Lafayette, CO

April:
1) Crystal Rose Bridal Show: Saturday, 4/10: Golden, CO
2) Whispers of Spring: Sunday, 4/11: Estes Park, CO
3) Bridal Festival: Sunday 4/11: Denver, CO
4) Bridal Festivals: Sunday, 4/18: Loveland, CO
5) Bridal Showcase Bridal Show: Tuesday, 4/20: Colorado Springs, CO
6) Rocky Mountain Bridal Show: Sunday, 4/25: Denver, CO

May:
1) Whispers of Spring: Sunday, 5/16: Westminster, CO
2) It's Party Time for Couples: Thursday, 5/20: Loveland, CO

July:
1) Bridal Showcase Bridal Show: Tuesday, 7/13: Colorado Springs, CO

August:
1) Rocky Mountain Bridal Show: Sunday, 8/22: Denver, CO

November:
1) Bridal Showcase Bridal Show: Tuesday, 11/9: Colorado Springs, CO


Happy Planning,
Benjamin.

]]> http://mementoandco.com/blog/2010/02/13/graduation-parties-tips-for-success http://mementoandco.com/blog/2010/02/13/graduation-parties-tips-for-success Sat, 13 Feb 2010 14:23:00 +0000 http://mementoandco.com/blog/2010/02/13/graduation-parties-tips-for-success


Timing:
Like you, everyone else is trying to celebrate their accomplishments around the same time. In order to maximize your attendance, try scheduling your event a few days to a week after the graduation date. Your guests will appreciate some time to unwind from all of the chaos and will be revived and ready to party with you.

Budgeting:
There are several ways to ensure that you don't empty your pockets completely for your graduation party. For example, try hosting the event during a time that is not considered a “meal-time.” This will ensure that your guests don't arrive expecting a full meal when all you wanted was to offer a few finger foods. Also, try limiting your guest-list to close family and friends instead of hosting the entire graduating class.

Personalized Theme:
Since the event is intended to honor the graduate, pay close attention to the theme's details. Focus the event around the graduates anticipated major in college, or around the company/industry that the graduate is entering. Highlighting the graduate's hobbies and interests is always a great way to personalize the event. Here are some top ideas on how to plan and execute the perfect graduation celebration:

1) Personalized Graduation Drinks: http://www.myjones.com/files_4/about-myjones.php
Upload an image that represents their Alma Mater, or just use a graduation picture. Either way, this idea can serve as a favor for guests and a great conversation starter.

2) Custom-Messaged M&M's: http://www.mymms.com/customprint/
With these cool candies, you can customize a message, or just choose school colors.

3) Graduation Registry: http://www.eregistry.com/home/graduation/s/
Transitioning to a new phase of life is never easy. Take this time to inform your guests of what you feel you can benefit from in this new journey.

4) Coffee Stencils: http://www.coffeestencil.com/
Host a coffee bar and customize a stencil to create a signature look for the graduate. This idea can also be done with cupcakes and powdered sugar. Get creative here... it's a lot of fun!

Once you have successfully executed the event, make sure to send thank-you notes to everyone involved in making your graduation a success. Remember, there is no wrong way to theme or design a party. The more personalized, the better. Just focus on the small details as they will go a lot farther than you may realize.


Happy Planning,
Benjamin.

]]> http://mementoandco.com/blog/2010/02/08/ises-wedding-showcase-2010-denver-co http://mementoandco.com/blog/2010/02/08/ises-wedding-showcase-2010-denver-co Mon, 08 Feb 2010 11:14:00 +0000 Benjamin http://mementoandco.com/blog/2010/02/08/ises-wedding-showcase-2010-denver-co
We started the evening by networking upstairs and talking with various Denver area vendors such as photographers, venues and entertainment companies. The evening continued downstairs as we voted on our favorite table designs and foods, all the while being entertained by Funkiphino, a band that played anything from Black Eyed Peas-to Jazz to-Justin Timberlake!

Additionally - Sasha Souza, whose work I was exposed to at The Special Event Show in New Orleans, was our special guest speaker for the evening. As always – her presentation was filled with great ideas and tips on how to anticipate new trends. She also talked about color palettes, the importance of lighting, and budgeting. Great job Sasha!

My favorites from the evening were:

1) Mile High Station: http://www.milehighstation.com/home.htm
2) Fun Productions: http://www.funproductions.com/FunPages/get-flipped.html
3) HiPhi Entertainment: http://www.hi-fi-entertainment.com/funkiphino/
4) Lola Photography: http://www.lolaphotography.net/lola_photography/Home.html
5) Sasha Souza: http://www.sashasouzaevents.com/

I can't wait to see what ISES Denver has in store for next year!

Happy Planning,
Benjamin.

]]> http://mementoandco.com/blog/2010/02/03/the-special-event-show-2010-new-orleans-la http://mementoandco.com/blog/2010/02/03/the-special-event-show-2010-new-orleans-la Wed, 03 Feb 2010 13:11:00 +0000 Benjamin http://mementoandco.com/blog/2010/02/03/the-special-event-show-2010-new-orleans-la

1) Award Winning Marketing on a Shoestring Budget
2) 2010's Hot Wedding Trends
3) Pipe & Drape: How it Can Make any Event Stand Out
4) Getting the Press You Deserve
5) Branding Your Business
6) Hollywood & Pop Culture: Their Influence on Special Events
7) Wedding Showcase Luncheon and Fashion Show with Special Guest: Darcy Miller from Martha Stewart Weddings

The trade show was filled with so many cool products and great vendors. I had the chance to meet a lot of suppliers and vendors that service the Denver area, which is awesome! My favorite products and trends from the show are:

1)The Cake Pop Co.: http://www.cakepopco.com/ : These little cakes are FANTASTIC! I couldn't eat just one. And the best part – they can personalize them to your theme and color selections. Your guests will love them!

2)Fred and Friends: http://www.worldwidefred.com/fredparty.htm : This website offers very unique party favors and other items that can help personalize your event. You can find things from ice cube shapes, to finger food tools.

3)Scentevents: http://www.scentevents.com/ : This was a very cool product! It's a fan that blows any scent you want throughout your venue. Smell is a huge factor in the guest experience and this product helps you to maximize this element. I had a chance to smell the different products and they are fantastic!

4)Flyboy Naturals: http://www.flyboynaturals.com/ : These are freeze-dried petals. You can choose from several colors and types of flowers. The benefit of freeze-dried is that you can re-use them for all kinds of things, because they retain color and durability. Use them on the dinner table at your rehearsal and then throw them down the aisle on the wedding day. They are gorgeous!

Happy Planning,
Benjamin.

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