WedLuxe Winter/Spring 2010 :: Iconic Inspirations {Ralph Lauren}

It's here! The new WedLuxe Winter/Spring 2010 issue is on Canadian newsstands and online at www.wedluxe.com. I'm also proud to announce our special feature :: Iconic Inspirations {Ralph Lauren} on pages 104 to 107.

I was extremely honoured (albeit a little nervous) when Editor-in-Chief of WedLuxe Angela Desveaux, approached me to design a wedding for the upcoming design issue... My inspiration was Ralph Lauren. So after weeks of research, city-wide scavenger hunts, designing, planning, countless emails and phone calls, and six storyboards later... I give you my inspiration! Ralph Lauren!

A big thank you to Palais Royale, Fuscia Designs, The Caketress, Bella Invites, Jackie Gideon, John Edgar, Chairman Mills, Around The Table, and Contemporary Furniture Rentals, for helping making this feature FABU~LUXE!

I hope you all enjoy it!

...And feel free to leave your comments!

Cheers,

Cindy

Photos courtesy of WedLuxe Magazine ~ Canada's Luxury Wedding Magazine

WedLuxe Winter/Spring 2010 :: The Designer Issue

I'm SUPER EXCITED about the new WedLuxe Winter/Spring 2010 :: the designer issue. Find it on newsstands across Canada on December 14th!

WedLuxe Magazine Winter/Spring 2010 www.cloudninecreative.com from Cloud Nine Creative on Vimeo.

... Doesn't this just say it all?!?!?

Cheers,

Cindy

Platinum Spotlight :: The Caketress

Name: Lori Hutchinson

Company Name: The Caketress

Service (what do you do?): Cake Designer- I design one of a kind cakes that reflect the couples tastes and personal style.

Number of Years in Business: 3 amazing years

Website: www.TheCaketress.ca

Blog: www.TheCaketress.blogspot.com

What made you start your own business? It came naturally with my obsession for styling cake couture. Having an artistic background, I’ve never really been into making the same thing twice or execute someone else’s vision. So when my love of art, esthetic design, and baking delicious confections combined, I couldn’t possibly work for anyone else but myself. I enjoy the entire design process from meeting each couple that inspires me, to painting the last smallest detail that makes the cake shine.

If you had to start over what one thing would you do differently? When starting out I probably wouldn’t have designed for what I thought people wanted, but instead designed to reflect my tastes, strengths and vision as an artist. Now that I’m at a point where I have creative control on my designs, it feels amazing to know my couples trust and love my work.

What's your favorite, can’t-work-with-out, item? I know I’m probably supposed to say something practical like my ovens or mixers, but really it would have to be my music playlist. I work endless sometimes on the smallest edible accents to the point where I zone out entirely to my surroundings that it is nice to have a little beat to keep me smiling and creatively motivated. I’ve even got to the point where I have a playlists for different stages of the making of the cake, such as high energy music for when I’m tirelessly kneading color into several pounds of fondant and a touch of ambience for when I’m carefully piping or painting directly on the cake.

What is the best piece of business advice you've ever received? An executive chef I used to work for told me “You’re only as good as your last plated dish”. When you think you know it all, you prevent yourself from evolving. I can never learn too much and only wish to continue to one up myself every time.

Which two people (past or present) would you like to meet over coffee and why?

Jack White – My dreams of being in a band thankfully never came true, due to being only able to play the flute and piano. However I vicariously dream through his amazing song writing abilities and guitar solos. I find the coolest people to meet are also the oddest, and he fits that category.

Audrey Hepburn – Her timeless sense of minimalist style and gracious personality is quite charming. Now that’s a women I want to shop and enjoy a martini with.

In five words how would you sum up your personality, style, company brand? Refined, Imaginative, Ambitious, Captivated, and Sweet

What would you like your clients to come away saying about you? Not only did the cake I made taste delicious, but I captured both their styles in a decadent masterpiece that kept their guests talking.

What are your three favorite blogs besides your own and platinumeventsblog.blogspot.com?

http://thesartorialist.blogspot.com Who doesn’t love admiring those who express themselves through what they wear.

http://butdoesitfloat.com/index/ -Visual mind candy

http://cakewrecks.blogspot.com/ When “professional” cakes go horribly wrong. A hilarious reminder that you get what you pay for in any industry, even with cakes.

Photo courtesy of Rowell Photography

My Royal Plantation Experience {Part II}

Day 3 is when we had our official tour of Royal Plantation and Gordon "Butch" Stewart's (Chairman of Sandals Resorts International) home, Rio Chico Estate. This photo was taken on the terrace patio... Stunning.

This is La Terrace restaurant, where I had the infamous Ackee & Lobster for breakfast. It is also open for dinner. This is where we dined most of the time. The food and service is top notch.

Just outside of La Terrace restaurant is the actual TERRACE! This is where we enjoyed pre-dinner cocktails & high tea.

Appleton Lounge is where we met our most hospitable host, Shawn Moses, Loyalty Manager, of Royal Planation Jamaica. {Royal Detail #5} This is where you will find freshly made toasted coconut to go perfectly with your Jamaican Red Stripe beer.

I love this photo of the pier. Looking out into the ocean just you and your special someone... How incredibly romantic is that?

Another view of the resort from the pier.

Here is the amazing Shawn Moses, our delightful tour guide showing us Villa Plantana. Villa Plantana is located on the Royal Planation premises. This exclusive 3 bedroom villa boasts its own private driveway, fairytale stone walkway (perfect for small wedding ceremonies!), and private pool.

{Royal Detail #6} Here is a private cabana set perfectly on the beach for guests staying at Villa Plantana.

Villa Plantana's private pool.

{Royal Detail #7} I had to post this. Royal Plantation has 20 some odd real life peacocks. Almost every morning or walk through the grounds I was greeted by these feathered friends... And from what I was told (and this photo speaks louder than words!) the Royal peacocks will even pose for pictures.

This was a sign at the numerous guava trees that surrounded the property. I though it was neat.

Royal Plantation Conference Centre, great for just about any large gathering. Be it business or pleasure.

{Royal Detail #8} I love this room! This is the Cognac & Cigar Lounge. The furnishings is so decadent I could sit in this room for hours. This is another great spot for an intimate wedding ceremony and/or cocktail hour.

This is THE place! It has by two favorite "C's", "Caviar + Champagne".

{Royal Detail #9} The C-Bar is Jamaica's only caviar and champagne bar that features white-gloved service and Veuve Cliquot champagne, and sumptuous Iranian caviar served on mother of pearl.

{Royal Detail #10} This resort is decked out with some of the finest furnishings. I'd love to take that wooden art piece home.

On this day (Monday) a local jewelry vendor set up shop inside the gazebo on the terrace patio.

These guys were great. We enjoyed listening to their classic Caribbean songs during lunch & dinner. If you ever see them, ask them to sing, "The Big Bamboo". ;)

{Royal Detail #11} Jamaican Friendship. What could be better than having your beach butler bring you one of these. What is it? Its about 5 different homemade ice creams, chopped exotic fruit, whipped cream, chocolate sauce, topped with a cherry.

Here it is the big surprise that became the highlight of my trip... Gordon "Butch" Stewart's (Chairman of Sandals Resorts International) home, Rio Chico Estate. This was quite a treat let me tell you. Being able to tour Mr. Stewart's private home was truly an honor.

Fourteen acres overflowing with luscious vegetation, flowering bougainvillea, crystal-clear streams and waterfalls springing directly from the same mountain source as nearby Dunn’s River greet you as you drive along the meandering entryway to Rio Chico, your own stunning island estate.

Here we are greeted with cocktails by Mr. Stewart's butler and staff.

This is an oasis set inside the estate. I can picture yet another intimate ceremony, cocktail hour, and even a casual rehearsal dinner.

The stunning dinning room. I am in love with the old world décor.

The main house has various living areas, six bedrooms, and numerous patios. There is also a two-bedroom guest cottage, Anichini linens, Frette Italian bathrobes, two pools, two beaches and a tennis court... Need I say more?

{Royal Detail #12} This has to be my favorite part of the grounds. This has to be THE most PERFECT spot for a wedding ceremony. The grounds is also large enough for a tented reception.

I hope you enjoyed reading about my Royal Plantation experience. For more information about Royal Plantation and Rio Chico Estate, drop me a line at cindy@platinumeventsgroup.com or visit RoyalPlanation.com.

Cheers,

Cindy

Some photos and information courtesy of Royal Plantation and Rio Chico Estate

My Royal Plantation Experience {Part I}

From the moment I knew I was going to Royal Plantation, in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, I knew I had to blog about my "royal" experience for all you romantics out there. Mind you I just started blogging in May. For those of you who missed my "prior to my departure blog" here is the link back - Destination Wedding + Honeymoon :: Royal Plantation (Ocho Rios, Jamaica).

I'm sure its obvious why I'd be thrilled to go and want to document this experience. Before I even began recommending Sandals, Beaches, and Royal Plantation, to all of my lovely couples, my husband and I were guests (honeymooners to be exact!), then quickly after that we became "retuning" guests through the Sandals Select program. Our first trip to a Sandals was on January 5th, 2006 at Sandals Dunns River... shortly after that we were hooked!

So without further ado I bring you {Part I} of My Royal Plantation Experience.

This had to be my first photo even though it was taken on day 2. What you are seeing here is the Royal Plantation beach flag. As you relax and unwind amidst the music of the ocean & warm sun, your beach butler will bring you whatever your hearts desire, all you need to do is wave this little flag. However! I'd just like to say that Andre, Beach Butler at Royal Plantation was fantastic. I don't think we ever had to wave our flag once. He made my royal experience, perfect!

But before all of that what WOWed me was my transfer from the airport to the resort. My good friend and colleague Gina Tsirmpas, National Promotions and Business Development Manager, Unique Vacations Canada Inc., was with me. {Royal Detail #1} While enjoying the amenities in the luxurious private Sandals lounge we were advised that our private transfer had arrived. Gina and I walked out to meet our driver & got into a private car. Before we left our driver gives us our welcome envelopes & offers us a cool refreshments... No doubt I opted for Red Stripe beer (C'mon? After all I was in Jamaica!)

All of this BEFORE we arrived to the resort!

First of all let me just say, these photos does not do this suite justice! Upon arrival to Royal Plantation we were greeted in the famous checkered floor lobby with cocktails & brought up to our suite. {Royal Detail #2} I was amazed at how the bellman took off his shoes before entering my suite with my luggage. As I carefully inspected my oversized, 2nd floor, corner suite (Don't ask! I always do this & I yes I created a room review checklist!) I was beyond pleased. My suite boasted a separate sitting area with a dining table for 2, sumptuous 24-hour room service menu, and a well stocked bar complete with, Beringers wine, Appleton Rum, Sky Vodka, Red Stripe Beer, pop, juice, and yes my favorite... Champagne! I also had a Juliet-style balcony over looking the east beach & slight view of the amazing Villa Plantana {see Part II on Thursday for photos}. One of my favorite en-suite things is a comfy pair of slippers and robe... Yes it was all there! {Royal Detail #3} Amongst the sea of pillows on the king sized bed was the 300 thread count Egyptian linens. Can I be honest it was THE BEST bed I have ever slept on -besides my own at home of course!

{Royal Detail #4} Last but not least, the turn down service. Aside from the daily cleaning, at night housekeeping would place my comfy Royal Plantation slippers on a mat at the side of my bed that said "Good Night" and when you get up in the morning the mat says, "Good Morning."

This was the view of the east beach from my balcony. Breath taking isn't it?

On day 2, along with a fresh cup of Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee and freshly squeezed orange juiced, I had ackee & lobster with plantain, cassava & fried dumpling for breakfast at La Terrace restaurant. Ackee is a Jamaican fruit (looks like scrambled eggs) that is traditionally cooked with saltfish and served for breakfast... Don't knock it until you tried it, its very YUM.

These photos are taken on the pool & terrace patio above the beach. Gorgeous!

And my favorite part, THE BEACH! Look at how happy I am! This is where you will find Andre, the beach butler. I recommend the Coconut Shrimp, Juicy Beef Patties, Jamaican Hot Chocolate (yes hot chocolate!) and a Mangosa... It's life changing. Lol!

A view of Royal Plantation resort from the pier. Its not a big resort, which in my opinion is the best kind. With 47 beachfront suites, Royal Plantation makes for a perfect venue for an intimate destination wedding & honeymoon.

Anyone for high tea? At 4:00PM on the terrace, just outside of the Appleton Lounge, waiters are set to serve high tea... And yes its the real deal! (We), Kathleen (as seen above!), Danielle, Gina, & I, relaxed outdoors on gorgeous couches and had tea, scones & creme, and other delicious pastries. This is a wonderful and elegant way to end off a day at the beach, wouldn't you say?

Stay tuned for {Part II} on Thursday where I go in deep with a private tour of Royal Plantation and Gordon "Butch" Stewart's (Chairman of Sandals Resorts International) home, Rio Chico... You don't want to miss this!

For more information about Royal Plantation drop me a line at cindy@platinumeventsgroup.com or visit RoyalPlanation.com.

Cheers,

Cindy

The Big Give 2010: JW Edition

I received this announcement from my good friend Joe Wong of JW Photography via Facebook this morning. If you are planning a 2010 wedding in the Toronto, Ontario area, you should know about The Big Give 2010: JW Edition.

Out of much appreciation and passion for the wedding industry and his clients, Joe started The Big Give contest this year, here's the scoop. You might also remember my blog posts about Holly + Matt, they were The Big Give winners of 2009. Little did Holly + Matt know, they were in for many more surprises. Not only did they receive an amazing complimentary photography package from Joe Wong himself but they also ended up with, wedding coordination, hair and make up, videography, invitations & stationary, florals, decor, and wedding cake... All donated by friends of JW Photography. The list of participating vendors can be found on our blog site - The Big Give 2009 :: Holly + Matt's Dream Team.

So want in on this amazing contest? Here's where you need to go to get all of the details The Big Give 2010: JW Edition.

Good luck! And who knows you might just end up with more than you planned for. ;)

Cheers,

Cindy

Webshot courtesy of JW Photography Blog

Platinum Spotlight :: hello DJ!

Name: Lisa Ng

Company Name: hello DJ!

Location: Toronto, Ontario

Service (what do you do?): We are a hip, fun, young and predominantly female DJ company.

Number of Years in Business: 4.5 years

Website: www.helloDJ.ca

What made you start your own business? My love of music and all things weddings drove me to start my own mobile disc-jockey company, hello DJ! in June 2005. I was also looking to earn some extra money while completing my Honours degree in Political Science & Cinema Studies at The University of Toronto. Little did I know that I would find a great niche as a female wedding DJ and that my part-time job would turn into a full-fledged company upon graduation. Our success really is based upon the fact that we pick great music and we are not a cheesy company yelling at people to get on the dance floor. We also pride ourselves on providing excellent customer service and really going above and beyond for all our clients.

If you had to start over what one thing would you do differently? I probably would’ve skipped DJ-ing on CDs and gone straight to digital, which is what we use now. I think everything really is a learning experience!

What's your favorite, can’t-work-with-out, item? My laptop – it holds all my music! I bring a back-up laptop and extra external sound card to all my events just in case.

What is the best piece of business advice you've ever received? Work to live, don’t live to work. It’s easy to get wrapped up in your business when you are the heart and soul of your company. I really believe in finding a true work/life balance. I enjoy living well, but I also work 150% and as effectively as possible when it comes down to business. As a DJ, we give up a lot of our Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays. It’s important to remember to have a life and to book weekends off to see family and friends.

Which two people (past or present) would you like to meet over coffee and why?

Kristen Bell – I absolutely loooooved the show Veronica Mars and was so sad that it was cancelled. I have SO many questions!

Oprah Winfrey – A fantastic business woman that broke barriers in the entertainment business and a true success story.

In five words how would you sum up your personality, style, company brand?

Non-cheesy, Fun, Organized, Easygoing, and Hip.

What would you like your clients to come away saying about you? That everyone was raving about how great the music was and you were the best DJ ever!

What are your three favorite blogs besides your own and platinumeventsblog.blogspot.com?

www.hills2city.wordpress.com – I like to watch trashy reality shows like The Hills, The City and Laguna Beach and then catch up with all the gossip online via this blog. I know these shows are SO fake, but that makes them even more entertaining!

http://www.athome.kimvallee.com – I absolutely LOVE home renovation and design. This blog pretty much covers it all and features some really great ideas & new home-related products. It’s like someone has already gone out, found all the best stuff out there for you and plopped it onto this blog.

www.tripadvisor.com – Not a true blog, but a website I always check before I book travel plans. The site features reviews of hotels in various cities and ranks them according to user comments. I LOVE to travel, but never book a hotel until I thoroughly check it out online.

Photo courtesy of Vanessa Heins, Boyfriend/Girlfriend Pictures