Be Different

A year ago, I joined the Junior Leagues of Birmingham to not only meet new people, but to get more involved in the community. This past weekend, we held our annual Mistletoe Event at Cloverleaf Fine Wine in Royal Oak which was a huge success. While it was a new venue for the league, it turned out quite well. The two story space has a modern loft feel to it with exposed pipes and beams which supported our cocktail event. Along with a wonderful band and plenty of wine and appetizers, there was a silent auction with a large array of wonderful items to choose from.

The reason I am mentioning all of this is that there are so many great places in Michigan to hold an event and that if you really want to be creative and different, you can absolutely make your wedding or special event something to remember. I challenge you to think differently for your next big event. If you have any examples of doing something a little bit different that you would like to share, please e-mail me at mrosenthal@merrittrosenthal.com . I look forward to your responses.

The Centerpiece

The Centerpiece

Lately, I have been working on putting together new ways for bride’s to re-invent the centerpiece and have come up with some different ideas. I love that even the smallest, most insignificant thing can spark inspiration such as a trip to the grocery store. So, the other day, I was picking up the usual list of items from our local store like milk, juice, eggs etc and came across an almost antique looking shampoo bottle. You might say “What in the world does a shampoo bottle have to with weddings,” but let me tell you it can. At that moment, I had a wonderful thought come to mind and I had to sketch it right away. I pulled out my little notepad from my purse and sketched away (I think a few bystanders thought I was a little strange, but oh what I would do for my job). Then, I tucked it away until I could get home to do more research on antiques. Now at home, I typed in “antiques” into a Google word search and was on my way. After a short time, I was able to build an entirely new type of centerpiece around my idea and I truly look forward to the day when I can put it to good use.

Family Wedding in Arizona

My husband and I attended a relative’s wedding this weekend in Arizona which was lovely. The wedding ceremony and reception were held at the picturesque Four Seasons in Scottsdale where the warm weather, great food & decor and terrific company made for a memorable experience. From every wedding that I attend, I like to take away at least one favorite moment or idea and this time it was definitely the setting. Having the ceremony outside with a beautiful background of mountains, cacti, candlelight, and roses was indescribable. In fact, I did not think the site could be topped until I noticed the amazing sunset before me. What an image! If I could change one thing about the whole weekend, it would have been to stay longer. In fact, the weekend went so fast, I barely even remember being there or even that I was able to bask in the sun for a few hours at the hotel pool.

Joe Cornell Expo

A couple of weekends ago, I participated in the Joe Cornell Event Planning Expo at the Jewish Community Center in West Bloomfield. I was actually representing both the Troy Community Center as well as my own business, Merritt Rosenthal Weddings & Events. It was not only nice to see such a great turn-out for the show, but it was great to be part of such a well organized and intimate show (the vendors are limited to between 60 and 70). Here are some pictures from the show…

Parisian Weddings & Dresses

A couple of weeks ago, my husband and I traveled to France for the first time and spent time in Paris and Tours. We absolutely loved every minute of it and cannot wait to return one day. During our time there, we visited such historical and beautiful sites as the Louvre, Versaille, Orsay, Montmatre, Chambord and the list can go on and on.

Also, I had the opportunity to sit down one on one with a couture wedding dress designer, Ana Quasoar, at her salon on Rue De La Banque. We discussed Parisian weddings as well as her exquisite work. It was a fantastic experience and look forward to the day when we can meet again as well as work together. Please feel free to peruse her work at http://www.anaquasoar.com/wedding_gowns.php.

September 26, 2009 Wedding

Congratulations to Sarah and Matt Beer! I so enjoyed being a part of your wedding day and wish you all the happiness in the world. Here are a few pictures from the grand affair.

Wedding Classes at the Troy Community Center

Announcing two new wedding planning classes at the Troy Community Center on 9/15 and 10/29-Weddings 101 and Weddings on a Budget. There are a limited number of spots available, so sign-up now! Call 248-524-3484 for more information or to purchase your ticket.