Venues Archives - Royalty Planning and Travel, LLC

Archive of ‘Venues’ category

Vintage Wedding Decor Ideas – San Antonio Wedding Consultant

September 15, 2015

View More: http://elegantbeautyphoto.pass.us/laura-and-tim-sawicki-wedding In San Antonio, the vintage look is still in when it comes to weddings. I don’t think it will ever go out of style for some couples. The most important part in having your vintage-inspired wedding look perfect is the location. Either having it in an old historic building with antiques, wood floors & intricate details or outside with beautiful surroundings of trees and flowers is essential for everything to tie together. Here are some ideas in San Antonio and the surrounding area for a great venue to accomplish the vintage look.

View More: http://elegantbeautyphoto.pass.us/laura-and-tim-sawicki-wedding

card hold vintage luggage birdcage_gift_table

The next step is to purchase or rent vintage furniture and décor. I have had several brides go to thrift stores and antique stores and make some great finds! Antique vases, books, trinkets, jewelry, luggage, containers, etc. are perfect for adding to the charm and ambiance of the venue space. A past couple of mine got lots of old library books and tied them together with ribbon and had them on each table for part of the centerpiece. They added in old gloves, lace, tea pots and trinkets to really give the table a vintage feel.

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Here is another example from a past couple of mine where she had shopped around for vintage vases and then added beautiful creams and shades of pink colored flowers. The bride actually made the exquisite birdcages hanging from the ceiling to incorporate a vintage yet glamorous look to them.

vintage car send off cake_table_photos

If you really want to have your guests feel they have gone back into time, it’s all about how you design your tables with the vintage items, the flowers you choose, the furniture style used and even the dress attire of the wedding party. All the small details will be noticed, I promise you, so have fun with it! Here are some furniture rental companies in the San Antonio area:

If you need help planning your vintage-styled wedding please contact Trudy Scott of Royalty Events Planning at 210-595-9263 or Trudy@RoyaltyEventsPlanning.com.

Engagement Picture Locations & Ideas In San Antonio

September 2, 2015

San Antonio Engagement Picture Locations &

Ideas For Your Save The Dates

As a wedding consultant in San Antonio who also offers invitation services, I have worked with all types of couples in ordering their save the dates. This is one of the hottest trends today and most couples are sending them out. Save the dates are normally sent out anywhere from 1 year to 6 months prior to the actual wedding date. Couples want to give their guests plenty of time to plan and prepare, especially those that will be traveling. View More: http://limelightsa.pass.us/sonterra save_the_date_chalkboard I must confess that I enjoy looking at the couple’s pictures for the save the dates the most. They are so creative and beautiful. Nothing like what it used to be when you went to a studio and got a posed picture taken…SO BORING! I get asked a lot from my couples where they should take their pictures and I always mention the traditional places of San Antonio, the Riverwalk, downtown San Antonio, The San Antonio Missions, the McNay Art Museum, and the San Antonio Botanical Gardens but I usually tell them to refer to their photographer for more unique locations. Most of the venues will allow their couples to have their engagement pictures taken there at no additional charge. Some couples choose this option too. I always remind my couples that they are going to get so many pictures there on the day of their wedding that it might be better to choose another location for a different look.

save the date

An actual Save The Date ordered through Royalty Events Planning

Local photographers know the special and unique places, the hidden gems of San Antonio and the surrounding area! Based on what their theme is, style or interests of the couple, the photographer will use that to make recommendations of where they could go to take the pictures.

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T&N_12

Pictures taken by Ardore Photography

And then the fun begins! Normally, couples will take a change of clothes and have 2 different looks for their pictures…a casual and more formal look. Some will incorporate their pets or something that is special to the both of them or even just one. I have seen many a time the fiancé getting his car, motorcycle or other special “toy” in the picture. So funny! Their cars are like a child to them, they have to include them, right!

engage 3

Daniel W. Torres Photography

The way the picture is taken and edited is also important to the couple. I have seen many photojournalist photographers create beautiful images with bold color, using black and white with a touch of color, tilting the camera, using unique angles, using props, etc.

candice_exon Daniel W. Torres Photography

save the date_courtney Here’s a list of great engagement photo locations in the San Antonio/Hill Country (not listed from above):

Favorites of Ara Photography

(click on the name to see engagement pictures)

Bracken Village

Adkins, Texas

South Town and Blue Star

Vista West Ranch

Other Ideas

A field of bluebonnets

A ranch

Lambermont

Westin (large staircase)

Landa Library

Gruene (Gruene Mansion Inn and Gruene Hall)

Sunset Station

Pearl Brewery

Canyon Springs (waterfall)

La Escondida Celebration Center

I hope some of these locations give you a starting place on where you can have your engagement pictures taken. Ask your photographer, too. If you need help planning your wedding please contact me. I am here for you! Trudy Scott, Royalty Events Planning, 210-595-9263 or Trudy@RoyaltyEventsPlanning.com

Table Decor Do’s & Don’ts At Your Wedding – San Antonio Wedding Coordinator

July 2, 2015

As a wedding coordinator, I have seen it all in terms of décor. Each couple has their own budget and style which determines what the entire feel and look will be of their wedding. I do try and make suggestions for adding elegance and a little more pizazz to the table but it is up the couple if they will follow that advice or not.

Don’ts For Table Decor

Let’s talk about the Don’ts of what to do for your table décor. This list is what I have actually seen at weddings and I have frowned upon. However, there is really nothing I can do when everything has been ordered or purchased and this is what I have to work with when setting it all up.

1. Don’t rent or purchase shorter linens than the table. It doesn’t look classy to have the legs popping out at the bottom! Guests do notice. If you aren’t sure about the length call a rental/linen company that can tell you exactly the size you need. Do you know what a 108, 120 or 132 is? You need an expert to tell you.

2. Don’t have clashing linen textures on different tables. Stick to one type, i.e. satin, polyester, crinkle, etc., and make sure all the tables are using this same type. This includes the cake, gift and sign in tables too.

3. Don’t have just a small centerpiece in the middle of the table with nothing else on the table. This looks so blah. Don’t you want the wow factor when guests walk into the venue and see the reception? I’ll give you ideas under the “Do’s List”.

4. Don’t do some crazy origami fold for the napkin. Guests will wonder why a swan is on the table. You don’t need that!

5. The white linen with the colored overlay. This look is so old fashion. You don’t need the overlay!

6. Using the same centerpiece for all the tables. This will make the room seem very uniformed and uninteresting.

Do’s For Table Decor

My favorite part of a wedding is setting it up. I love to get creative and make each and every area look the best it can. If I know I’ll be setting up a specialty table like a candy bar, cigar bar, dessert table, etc., I usually will bring extra décor that I own with me to jazz up the table even more (the couples don’t even know I do this). It’s just something I love to do! Here is a list of Do’s for your table décor at your wedding.

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vintage pearls picture wedding reception table

1. Do personalize the table with menu cards, unique table #’s (or places you’ve traveled, favorite things to do together, favorites of each other, etc.), pictures of each other, small trinkets of something important to the both of you, décor that goes with the theme (ex. antique décor or maracas – I have had couples do both of these).

Sandals_MS-3822

2. Fold the napkin in simple ways such as the rectangle traditional fold or the waterfall fold where it hangs over the edge of the table. For a touch of elegance you could put the napkin in the water glass but this gets tricky when the caterer is trying to fill the water glasses.

3. If you have to choose between white or ivory linens go with the ivory. It is a more elegant color and looks better with additional colors. White linens reminds me too much of a sweet sixteen party.

mcnay wedding san antonio

4. Stick with just FLOOR LENGTH linen and no table overlay. You don’t need it! Color can be added in the flowers and napkins. There are beautiful linens nowadays (the champagne color is one of my favorites) and that’s all you need!

5. If you have more than 15 tables then you need to have 3 types of centerpieces to really give the room a nice look. I recommend a tall, medium and low (or switch out the low for a candlescape with elegant candle holders). Just be sure on the medium size that guests can see each other still from across the table. Use different styled vases too so the tables have their own look. Get creative! If you are using white or ivory table cloths then use some color in your centerpieces to spice up the room.

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6. Add even more to the table with these ideas: chargers, party favor, dinnerware and glasses. When you add your personalized items that I mentioned from above, your table is complete and will look beautiful!

7. I did want to mention the chair…Chiavari chairs are my first preference but can be a little pricey if you’re on a budget. The next option is the bistro chair and then the folding chair. I would recommend one of these options before covering the chairs. It is completely my opinion, but I feel the room looks classier without the chair covers. Again, it looks so uniformed and like a sweet sixteen party with them on.

If you need help with your décor and how you should design the look and feel of your wedding reception please contact me. I have seen a lot of weddings and can tell you what I have found looks fantastic! I’m here for you!! Trudy Scott, Royalty Events Planning, 210-595-9263, http://www.RoyaltyEventsPlanning.com.

Wedding Ceremony Location Checklist – San Antonio Wedding Coordinator

June 18, 2015

In San Antonio, there are beautiful churches, cathedrals and missions plus beautiful outdoor locations at venues, the Riverwalk and even hotels and resorts. So many options! With that comes rules and guidelines, classes, and fees that you have to consider when choosing your location. As a coordinator, I want to be there to help with the ceremony set up, pinning of boutonnieres, passing out flowers, helping the bridal party and family, lining up and queuing. However, some churches are more strict than others and do not allow coordinators there. San Fernando Cathedral is one of those locations. It was founded in 1731 and is the oldest, continuously functioning religious community in the State of Texas. They have a lot of guidelines to follow in order to be married there. This is something you need to consider when choosing your ceremony location.

Lets talk about having an indoor vs outdoor wedding ceremony. The two can be very different so you need to consider each differently. Here are some questions to ask the venue or the church event coordinator before booking.

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Photo by Ara Photography

Inside Ceremonies

What time is the wedding party allowed to enter the church/venue prior to the ceremony?
Is there a bridal room for the bride and bridal party to get ready in?
Is there a room for the men to go to?
Does the bridal room have a mirror and access to a bathroom?
What are the policies for floral décor?
For churches, do we have to leave the altar flowers or can we take them after the ceremony?
What are the rules for hanging pew markers?
Are we allowed to use an aisle runner and if so, how can we tack it down?
Where will the musicians be located and will they be able to see the aisle well?
For churches, do we have to use your musicians or can we bring in our own? What kind of music do you allow and not? Is there an additional fee for your musicians?
Does the venue/church allow for photography and videography? What are the rules they must follow (flash, standing, etc.)?
Are guests permitted to take pictures?
In the church, are there places that the ushers should not sit anyone?
Where will the wedding party line up and enter from?
Are there policies that need to be listed in the program for guests to be aware of (e.g. no photography, dress attire, etc.)?
Is a rehearsal included? Will the pastor be there for it or the event coordinator?
For churches, what paperwork is required? Any classes?
Are flower petals allowed? What can be thrown afterwards outside?
What is the fees and deposit amounts?
Are outside wedding coordinators allowed?

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Outdoor Ceremonies

(Lets assume that all outdoor ceremonies will be at a venue/hotel/resort)

What time will the venue be available prior to the ceremony?
Is there a separate holding area for both the bride and groom and the wedding party?
Does the bridal room have a mirror and access to a bathroom?
What are your rules for decorating the aisle and ceremony location? Petals allowed?
How is the seating normally arranged?
Do you provide chairs? Arch? Anything else?
Think about your guest’s and which direction the sun will be facing at that time of day. Is there shade? Water station allowed? Will it be hot or cold?
Do we need a microphone and speakers to project the officiant, bride and groom and readers? Is there power nearby for this?
Do you need a podium for readers or officiant?
Do you need a table for the unity candle or other items?
Where will the musicians be located at and will they be able to see the aisle?
Where will the wedding party line up and enter from?
What is the Plan B for rain?
Is a rehearsal included or extra fee or can’t do at all?
What are the fees?
Can we bring in our own wedding coordinator?

On the day of the wedding, if you haven’t hired a wedding coordinator (which is what I recommend), put a special friend or family member in charge of making sure the programs, reserved signs and accessories such as the unity candle make it to the church or venue on time. Be sure the readers have copies of their readings with them and that a copy of the readings is also given to the officiant. You’ll need to instruct the ushers what their duties are, pin on boutonnieres and pass out corsages and bouquets, and check on the bride to make sure she doesn’t need anything. As a San Antonio coordinator, I bring a wedding day emergency kit that has a little bit of everything for needs that might come up.

If I can assist with your ceremony or if you have any questions, please feel free to contact me. I am a professional wedding consultant in San Antonio, Texas. 210-595-9263, Trudy@RoyaltyEventsPlanning.com. Please go to my website to learn more about my services. I not only have coordination services but invitation and honeymoon as well.

Budget Friendly linen and decor ideas for your wedding – San Antonio Coordinator

May 7, 2015

Last week I got a little off track when I talked about my wedding and also gave you easy ideas for creating a “Royal Inspired” wedding. I guess I had to brag a little about my wedding because of course, every bride thinks their wedding was the absolute best and I DO share my wedding day with Prince William and Princess Kate. Ok, ok, lets get back on topic with my latest blogs….how to plan the perfect wedding. I have already discussed the venue, catering, photography, and flowers. Now I want to tell you about some great ideas on the look you are trying to achieve but maybe on a tight budget.

For many brides, the most important part of the planning process is the linens and decor. It can be fun going to a rental or linen company and mix and match color combinations with the main linen, table runner, and overlays. As a planner, I carry around a color wheel from a paint store so we can “play” with colors. I have worked with all kinds of brides…those that know exactly what they want the room to look like to those that really have no clue and look to me for ideas and suggestions. I consider myself creative and have seen a lot so I’ll use my expertise to ask important questions and from there make recommendations. Let’s go over some budget friendly ideas you can use for your reception.

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Rio Cibolo Ranch Boot Centerpiece

101_5543 Olympia Hills Golf & Event Center Linen/Rental Package

Some venues include white, ivory or black linens. Definitely take advantage of this and use theirs. That can be a big savings. Some venues even offer in-house center pieces that are included as well. They might look a little worn but maybe consider jazzing it up a little with a few fresh flowers, bling, branches, etc. At Rio Cibolo Ranch they offer boot centerpieces with fake flowers inside them. Maybe add a bandana, a small rope or fresh flowers and you’ll get a new look! If you do have to purchase the linens from the venue they will probably be at a cheaper rate than you might find elsewhere. Olympia Hills Golf & Event Center does just this.

If you do need to rent your linens then normally, polyester will be cheaper than other fabrics. You can use that kind to help save a little there. Another idea is to purchase the linens wholesale and then sell all of them after the wedding to recoop maybe half of your cost. I have had several past brides do this.

Forgo on the overlays and runners. If you really had your hearts desire on something creative on the table you can use fruit or party favors for each place setting. Or how about votives, framed pictures of the two of you, petals, antique items you find from garage sales, grandma’s doilies, cheap fabric you find on clearance as runners. The ideas are endless! If you are going for a rustic look why not cut a tree up and use the trunk and limbs for center pieces, table number holders and candle holders. The ever popular mason jars and painted and twined wine bottles are a winner too.

Craigslist and Ebay are great ways of finding good deals from other brides that are trying to sell their wedding items. Look on there regularly. Postings can pop up at any time.

Shop around for rentals such as vases, candelabras, candle holders, or other unique pieces. You never know who might be having a special. If you go to a bridal show, that might be a good opportunity to get a good deal on something you may need.

For my couples, I offer rental items that I know they would need such as cake stands, easels, table numbers, chalkboards, baskets, birdcages, etc. As an incentive for using my coordinating services I offer 2 items for free and the rest 50% off for my day of services and 4 free with my full planning. My couples love this! See if coordinators in your area might offer something like this too.

If you need help with planning your San Antonio wedding please contact me. I would love to help you. Trudy Scott, Royalty Events Planning, 210-595-9263, trudy@royaltyeventsplanning.com.

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