A "Bachelorette Bootcamp" Weekend Experience

Over the weekend I attended, what my girlfriends and I like to call "Bachelorette Bootcamp" for one of our very good friends, Missy. She is getting married in El Salvador to our friend Jose in a short while. Unfortunately, quite a few of us girls will not have a chance to make it to the actual wedding so we all played a part in making sure Missy's weekend experience was special.

Our plans were to start the weekend off on Friday afternoon with a walk through the French Quarter, shortly after checking into the Hampton Inn Convention Center. Previous to our stay, I could say that I was familiar with this property but had no clue on how pleasing and accommodating the weekend was going to be because of our choice of hotels.

It was a treat walking into the old New Orleans style hotel lobby on such beautiful wood floors, gazing at the decor complimentary to my favorite, open brick walls. Checking in was extremely easy and the location was central to all of the fun local New Olreans hotspots we planned on spending our weekend; Rock N Sake, Lephare, Republic, Red Eye, and Lucy's to say the least.

Michelle Burtch of the Hampton Inn properties greeted us upon arrival and escorted us to our room for a tour. Entering we realized that this wasn't just any room, it was a suite to accommodate our every need. It was perfect for us! With my favorite brick walls, including a nicely sized kitchen where we would set up our bar, a large living room and a large bedroom overlooking the pool, we looked at each other with excitement, saying aloud this choice was a great one.

I can safely say the Hampton Inn Convention Center property was great for many reasons but the one above all was the bonding experience it gave us girls. This is surely a memory that Missy or the rest of us will never forget. Some of us being old friends and some of us new, you can only imagine how our stay here brought us closer. We now have good friends and a great weekend to be thankful for!

For more information on a great stay like ours or perhaps holding your wedding at one of the Hampton Inn properties locate them in the local merchants section of www.BrideAndGroomPlanner.com/New-Orleans

For additional information you may contact:

Sara Northcutt Bartlett
1201 Convention Center Blvd
NOLA 70130
504-566-9990
sara@highpointe.com

Christie Talamo
Sales Manager Hampton Inn Downtown-French Quarter
226 Carondelet St.
New Orleans, LA 70130
504.529.5077
504.529.5453 (FAX)
ctalamo@highpointe.com

A Tale Of Two Countries

Some things in life are just meant to be. It has been said that each one of us has a soul mate, the person god has made special for each and every one of us. Unfortunately, we don't particularly know when we will find this love, it just happens. You could meet the love of your life in a grocery store, in college, perhaps it might be a friend of a friend. All of our stories are different, and unique. Within the past few years I have been able to witness one union that is profound in the way that it has touched my heart.

Marc & Monica met in Mexico City. Marc was partly on vacation while in attendance of his cousins wedding. When they met, little did they know that by exchanging email information they were going to be engaged three years later. Marc & Monica mildly kept in contact through email but soon lost touch. It is funny how technology has played a large part in their life because soon they found each other again and hit it off by means of instant messenger. There life was changing with each conversation. Marc & Monica decided they would meet in Argentina. Within the time they finally got to spend together, it was known that they had something special.

How was this to happen, Marc lived in New Orleans where Monica lived in Colombia. Each hard at work, Marc having a strong business of his own and Monica studying her lifelong dream of fashion, it was hard but possible. This was something worth working for. While fate was on their side, a separation of miles would be difficult. A strong commitment to each other was going to be an important factor, if this was going to work. Through the years, meeting in different places and communicating through various forms of technology, their love grew stronger. It was finally time to start their life together.

About a month ago, Marc flew to Colombia for a visit where he would make Monica the happiest woman in the world. He thought to himself, "I always felt that it was impersonal for people to propose in a restaurant. Well as plans normally change, Marc & Monica went out for dinner to a restaurant that was uxepectidly very familiar to the stages of their early beginnings. It couldn't be any more perfect, people cleared the restaurant and the time was right. Marc said, "Mi Amor' and presented the ring to her. While I am privileged to know more details of this beautiful story, I will leave you with your imagination.

My final words are that I am extremely happy for this young couple who are very special to me. They are now in the planning stages of their wedding that will be held in Colombia where I feel lucky that I get to attend. For all that are reading, I hope that you get to experience something as beautiful as this!

From Day One!

Starting a new business is quite the process and it can be a little scary. Well as most of you know I am going through the initiation of building my business, BrideAndGroomPlanner.com of New Orleans. There are many things to do and plenty of people to meet to reveal my true character and what I have to offer.

One person comes to mind when I think of the first day I plunged into the world of wedding industry professionals, Christine Breaux of Weddings In Style Magazine. I will never forget how we met. I attended a meeting at the New Orleans Metropolitan Convention and Visitors Bureau, where Christine was the guest speaker. I was astonished in amazement on how knowledgeable, smart, classy, and funny she was while she worked the room. She spoke of trends in the industry, and gave us advice on destination brides. In a seconds notice, Christine points to me out of a crowded room and asks, "Why are you here", I was obviously nervous, but proudly explained! Her idea for pointing me out and asking me this question was to show that we were all there for the same reason. Immediately after leaving this meeting I sent Christine a follow up email expressing my thoughts on how I felt about her and would appreciate it if we could stay in touch. From day one, Christine has been a kind source of knowledge for me and has been extremely supportive while extending her expertise. It is so nice to know that we as wedding industry professionals have a support system within each other.

Christine and her team at Weddings In Style Magazine are working so hard to make the wedding planning experience less stressful. Her new issue of the magazine was just released and coming up soon on February 28, 2010, they will have their next bridal show at Westin Canal Place.

You can find more information in the New Orleans Events section of www.BrideAndGroomPlanner.com/New-Orleans

For advance tickets log onto www.weddingsmagazines.com

A Young Girls Dream

I am speaking for myself and for the young women that have grown up in and around the New Orleans Metropolitan area, when I say it is a dream to wear a gown created by designer Harold Clarke. I remember strolling beside the original showroom on the corner of Iberville and Dauphine, where Harold's gowns were on display like artwork, imagining if I would ever have a chance to wear one of these exclusive pieces. Little did I know that eventually there would come a time in my life where I would actually get the pleasure to sit down with Harold and learn more about him and what he does.

Walking in to his new location, which is on the second floor of New Orlean's own Rubinsteins, I was a little nervous. Now that I have come to know Harold I don't know why I was the slight bit nervous to begin with. Harold's calm demeanor puts you at ease immediately upon arrival. You can tell he has pure and honest intentions when speaking with him. I had so many questions for him, but the most important one was what lead him to where he is today. After telling me a story on how he fell in love with couture fashion, his answer was a simple one. Harold said,"It is important for me to stay true to my passion, I am just a man doing what I love." Harold is pure inspiration.

There are many great things going on at Harold Clarke Couture Atelier, March 20th they are presenting us with "Weddings Couture". I am so glad that I get to be included in this venture. Weddings Couture will be an exclusive bridal event that you will not want to miss. Find out more about this upcoming event in the New Orleans events section of www.BrideAndGroomPlanner.com/New-Orleans

Destination Brides Get Ready For New Orleans

New Orleans is one of the most beautiful and historical cities in the country that holds an ambiance for romance. From the riverfront, to the French Quarter, New Orleans hosts a variety of unique and memorable locations for your wedding. This is why New Orleans is now one of the most popular cities for destination weddings. With a rich culture, amazing culinary choices, world famous music, and Weddings by Janie Glade, New Orleans will make any wedding a dream come true.

I have had the privilege of not only meeting Janie Glade & Terry Merlenbach of Weddings by Janie Glade, but also the privilege of becoming very close with them. They have become quite like my wedding fairy godmothers. Yesterday, I met them both for lunch at Domenica, which is located in the Roosevelt Hotel downtown, to catch up on the past couple of months. I can't tell you how genuinely kind these two women are. I asked questions on some of the recent weddings they have created, and it is a pleasure to listen to the way they describe what they do, you can see the passion in their eyes. Janie's mind runs a million miles a minute with new ideas, while Terry keeps track of every detail.

Janie & Terry's focus is on destination brides that have an eye for being unique. Janie explained, that the city sets a scene for a blank canvas for every one of their brides. When they originally meet with their beloved bride for the first time, they listen and learn about her desires to get a feel for what they will create for her special day. There has not been two weddings that have even been close to being similar. Janie & Terry are true artists when it comes to making their bride's dream a reality.

One of their brilliant ideas that is coming to fruition, is their bridal show that they are producing to be held at the Royal Sonesta on February 21st from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. This is going to be an event that brides will not want to miss. I will be at the point of registration with my BrideAndGroomPlanner.com girls greeting every newly engaged bride, while there will be an array of specialized wedding vendors that Janie & Terry deal with on a regular basis. Believe me when I tell you, if they are affiliated with Janie & Terry, they are the best of the best. I am certainly looking foward to being there!

For more information on Weddings By Janie Glade and their upcoming bridal event stay tuned to www.BrideAndGroomPlanner.com/New-Orleans

Feeling Special & Unique?

With trends growing so rapidly, we look to be unique and special like we truely are in everything that we do. There is no exception when in comes to "the one and only special day" and all that leads up to it. Wedding vendors have realized this and take this in to account when showcasing to future brides what they can offer. Take it from me, I get to meet with some of the best of the best around. For instance there is Mrs. Letitia Clark-George. She has made it a priority to create unique themed bridal showers and bachelorette parties. There are options like mimosa & make over brunches, as well as maritni make over cocktail parties, each with customized invitations and decor planning. Her goal is to make your guests feel as special as you do. Your guests will leave an event that they will never forget with a specialized gift just for them. What a beautiful idea from B.Beauty Bar!

For more information on B.Beauty Bar and other local wedding vendors you can find them in the local merchants section of www.BrideAndGroomPlanner.com/New-Orleans

New Orleans History & Traditions

When you think of nostalgic memories you have had in your childhood it seems only natural to want to include them in the development of your wedding and the events leading up to. Do you remember the Saturdays you had tea with your Aunt or the Sundays you spent at the beach with your family, and what about Sundays in the park with your brother and sister. Everyone has something memorable that is a special part of them inside and out. Just think about if one of your memories growing up had to do with the history and traditions of the New Olreans Fair Grounds. The Fair Grounds have seen more than its fair share of horse racing history made along its mile-long oval and wants to create a special moment in history with your event as well. Today I met with Mary Cay Kern, the Sr. Group Sales Manager of this traditionl venue, and it was a pleasure. She took me on a special tour of the grounds while explaining to me that there is nothing they wouldn't do to accomodate unique needs for your event. They will help to create your vision. Isn't it a great idea to occupy the box seating in the clubhouse for a couples bridal shower or having a Day at the Races engagement party with full accomodations. Believe me when I tell you on a beautiful day the view from this venue is spectacular, you can feel the sunlight and crisp air just by gazing over a view of the New Orleans skyline or a breathtaking view of the track.

To create a unique moment in history like this you can find more information on venues in the local merchants section of www.BrideAndGroomPlanner.com/New-Orleans

Bourbon Street Flare

There are so many things that come to mind when you think of downtown New Orlean's very own Bourbon Street! Some of my favorites include Pat O Briens, where I have had so many great memories sharing their drink of choice the "Hurricane". Then you have the blues clubs where you can sit and relax for hours listening to classic favorites. One of my fondest memories include a New Orleans tradition, our famous Lucky Dog. Anytime you have had a couple of drinks this is where you go to enjoy something tasty and quick for your stomach. And I will always remember the Old Absinthe House, where on days like today you will be lucky to get a seat close to the tradional fire place near the back of the bar. Recently, I shared an evening with my very best friend where we went in for a drink after dinner, and luckily we found two cozy seats right in front of the fireplace when the whole bar was completely filled. We sat an talked for hours not even realizing the time. These are special moments to cherish when I think of Bourbon Street. What a wonderful way to treat your wedding guests non other then sharing these enjoyable moments of Bourbon Street with them. Today I met with Andy Lebouef the Group Sales Manager of The Inn On Bourbon, and what a pleasure it was. His venue is in the perfect location on Bourbon for guest lodging, ceremonies, receptions, or whatever your desire. Andy is extremely sweet and I learned today that it is his goal to make your visit special. It is also a perfect venue because there are so many things like some of my favorites I talked about before that are so close to enjoy during downtime of your wedding festivities. The Inn on Bourbon definately has appeal to make your experience memorable.

To find out more about local venues for guest lodging, receptions, and parties look in the local merchants section of www.BrideAndGroomPlanner.com/New-Orleans

Details In New Orleans Matter

Details make a big difference when planning an event. It can mean the difference in being a good event versus an exsquisite one. Just think, the setting is beautiful, but the atmosphere has something missing? What is it? You look around the room to notice that people aren't exactly glistening with enjoyment. Well this is where a small detail could come in to place and Clark J. Knighten owner of Black Cat Productions knows this all too well. His company is based on giving you music & entertainment that your guests will leave talking about, Black Cat Productions want to make your event a special occasion! Clark has been in the business for a very long time where his knowledge and experience comes in to play. If you have an idea of what you are looking for, whether it be a full 15 piece band or a single dj, Black Cat Productions has access to over 50 of New Orleans most popular individual artists and groups to suite your style. Not only does Clark have expertise in this particular detail for your event, he has a love and passion for it as well, so you can trust that your event will be memorable.

To find more information on music & entertainment like this look in the local merchants section of www.BrideAndGroomPlanner.com/New-Orleans

I was flattered by this article

New Orleans, for many years has been a destination wedding city. With the unique architecture, sacred traditions and captivating culture, brides all over the world choose to get married in New Orleans. Unfortunately, New Orleans has attracted betrothed couples because of its reputation, comparable to Las Vegas, for its sin city and shot gun wedding appeal. But that reputation has drastically changed within the last decade. New Orleans has become a destination to women who seek traditional and luxurious weddings. These types of brides are coming to the city in groves and they need the best makeup artists, hair stylists, florists and facilities that New Orleans has to offer. Thankfully, high maintenance brides like this have the most comprehensive and resourceful website at their fingertips to help organize their dream wedding in New Orleans, thanks to the one and only Daquari DeLeon.

Daquari DeLeon, owner of www.BrideAndGroomPlanner.com/New-Orleans, is a young, beautiful woman committed to making the wedding process seamless for couples seeking to get married in New Orleans. Her mission is to create an extensive directory of local vendors that can aide brides in making their day as special and perfect as possible. Not only is Daquari establishing a strong luxury wedding directory in New Orleans, but she is putting a fresh and fabulous face to wedding planning in New Orleans. The Examiner interviewed Daquari about her business to showcase how it could help local makeup artists gain new clientele, but after our initial interview over coffee, we quickly recognized her simple yet chic beauty style. With her flawless skin and gorgeous eyes, we had to learn more about her beauty secrets. We asked Daquari a few questions to get some beauty insight. Feel free to borrow her secrets to achieve a superb look!

The Examiner asked Daquari:Describe your beauty regimen:

What are your must have beauty products?

Clinique face wash and clarifying lotion
Olay regenerist micro-sculpting cream and superstructure uv cream
Mac Zoom lash mascara
Mac Studio Moisture TintNars lipgloss
Nars Greek Holiday sheer lip gloss
Can't forget my concealer (Mac Select Cover Up) I definitely do not go far without this!
Mac bronzer

Describe your look. Are you a Granola Girl (simple and chic) or a Glamour Girl (fabulous and dramatic)?

I am definitely a Granola Girl; simple and chic.

What beautiful woman are you most inspired by?

I know this may sound funny but the beautiful woman I am inspired by most is my best friend Stacy (she is also my boyfriend George's sister). She is smart, successful (Owner of Traffic Solutions, Inc.), beautiful, warm, generous, open minded, kind, has a low key and down to earth demeanor, a smile that lights up a room, and will give you the world. I hope that I come close to being like her. She is indeed my inspiration.

All vendors in New Orleans looking to expand their clientele, should definitely become a vendor for www.BrideAndGroomplanner.com/New-Orleans Entry level membership is absolutely free! Ensure that you are featured in the premier wedding directory in New Orleans and gain the business from brides who want weddings full of luxury and style .For more info about www.BrideAndGroomPlanner.com/New-Orleans

Contact: Daquari@BrideAndGroomPlanner.com, 504.228.5699

For more info on this article contact: Letitia Clark George @ bbeautybar@gmail.com