Ask the Expert: Posh Parties

I love picking a wedding planner’s brain. They have such a vast perspective on the big picture. They’ve got their pretty little fingers in every aspect of the process, so, it’s no surprise that they get asked some of the top questions. Just ask Heather of Posh Parties, our latest expert! Heather’s letting us in on some of her most-asked questions. And if that’s not enough, you can Ask Posh Party Gal right on her site. What’s not to love about this gal?!

How can I make my wedding stand out from others?

Weddings can be very cookie-cutter. All weddings have the same ingredients—choose a venue, a band, a photographer, etc. However, there are several things you can and should do to make your wedding your own. First, think of fun ways to bring out you and your fiancé’s personality. Maybe it means having a fun brass jazz band play at your cocktail hour because you met in college in New Orleans. Second, add personalized touches along the way. For instance, creating a “theme” using a monogram, saying or icon on your cocktail napkins, menu cards and program—things that can be carried out through your entire event. Lastly, incorporating a DIY element. Maybe you love to bake and as something guests can take home with them you bake homemade cookies or small cakes and give them your recipe. Small touches like this will transform your standard wedding into one that really is all about you as a couple!

What are some ways of making our food fun?

I love the trend of food by the bite. Mini tuna tacos, pot pies on a stick, mini lobster rolls and rubens—there are so many options. Those are great for your cocktail hour and late night bites. I also think the idea of doing dance floor delights—passed bite sized desserts—makes your party fun and keeps your guests on the dance floor so they don’t have to go back to their table for another course. Think chocolate covered cheesecake lollipops, mini sorbet cones, s’mores on a stick. Not only will that allow you to have some of your food more fun, but small touches like this can really create a big wow factor!

Is incorporating fashion trends into your wedding style something that is appropriate?

I find that many wedding trends directly relate to the trends in fashion. For example, leather is a big trend and now I am seeing it on cocktail linens, custom bars and after party furniture. So do not hesitate to use your fashion magazines as inspiration for your wedding looks. It’s nice to incorporate something current in addition to classic, timeless elements you will always look back on and be happy you had.

If there is one thing I should splurge on what would it be?

There are many elements of a wedding that are important—music, food, location, etc. However, if I had to choose one thing, I would say spending on an amazing photographer and videographer is the worth the splurge. Your photos are what you have left after the wedding is over to be able to reflect on over your lifetime. You want to make sure you get a quality photographer who you trust to capture one of the most important days of your life. As far as video, this is a place some people like to cut from their budget. Keep in mind, the video is the only place you will be able to go back and listen to the toasts and hear the laughter, the cheering and the music.

Do I need a party favor?

This truly is personal preference. If you do choose to have a favor, make sure it is something useful or edible so it makes sense monetarily to do. You can also choose to make a donation in your guests honor to a favorite charity. If you are torn, another option is to serve your cake as “cake to go” in a box with a fun tag that says “love is sweet.”  This way you are serving two purposes. I also love the idea of having fresh donuts made as guests leave with a coffee bar. Something like that is interactive and fun and less of a traditional favor.

My color palette includes colors that are not typically in flowers, is that going to be a problem?

Not at all. There are so many ways to incorporate colors. Keeping your florals neutral, you can add pops of color through your printed items, through table linens and even through pillows on lounge settings. Those are some of the best ways to include your funky colors and metallics without sacrificing the look of your flowers.

What is the best way for me to get information about my wedding out to my guests without having to clutter my save the date?

Wedding websites are extremely useful and a great way to relay information to your guests throughout the wedding planning process. From accommodation information, travel and weekend events, to attire, golf outing and spa information, these websites are the perfect way to tell your guests important details without having to lay it all out on your save the date. Wedding apps that also have a website are becoming increasingly popular and are truly great ways for your guests stay in the know right on their smart phones.

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Event Planning: Posh Parties & Paper | Wedding Photography: Nancy Cohn Photography | Assistant Photographer: Lauren Ross Photo | Wedding Venue: Cypress Grove Estate House in Orlando, Florida | Floral Design: Xquisite Events | Wedding Dress: Reem Acra