Oliveaire - South Asian Events


Oliveaire provides the hospitality industry a channel to explore the ethnic event market influenced with culture and tradition. Clients are able to depend upon our knowledge and understanding of the unique needs of the customs, meal preferences, and accommodations generated by these events. Our team, with its ethnic background, has been our cornerstone in provding our clientele the best service in the wedding and special event market.
Showing posts with label Wedding. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Wedding. Show all posts

Thursday, November 14, 2013

Gupta & Patel Wedding: Marriott Schaumburg: Part 2

Below are the beautiful photos of the romantic wedding that the Gupta's & Patel's witnessed the lovely couple wed within! The red matched the Brides wedding attire so accurately, as the backdrop created a nice contrast to make the photos turn out nicely! Wait for the reception photos next week!












Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Lighting Up Your Space

Have you seen some gorgeous event pictures recently? Take a closer look and you will probably notice that there is some type of lighting element as part of that event. New technology in the lighting field has opened the door to many possibilities for lighting that were simply not possible, or affordable, as recently has five years ago.

Today lighting your wedding reception means so much more than flipping a switch. You can put your touch in almost all lighting elements. “Lighting creates a mood” says event designer Preston Bailey, and when it is done well, lighting can make everything, including your wedding flowers, cake and guests look better. Now that you have seen the captivating pictures and have decided you want to incorporate lighting into your event, what do you do?

Find a company that specializes in lighting.
To obtain suggestions in your local area you can ask your event designer or wedding florist, many of them do their own lighting. If they do not, more than likely, they work with a lighting professional in the industry. You can also check with your contact at your reception venue, they will either offer options in-house or a recommended vendor list for lighting professionals they work with.


Learn lighting lingo
Here are some lighting terms that you will hear regularly:
Pin Spot - A focused beam of light that shines directly onto an object, like a centerpiece or wedding cake, as a highlight effect.
Color Wash - There are a few different types of light fixtures that can create a "wash," which is basically a blanket of colored light covering an entire area.
Gobos - Circular stencils that are put over a light to project a design or pattern. Popular gobo designs are monograms, dates, or any other wedding motifs.
LED - Short for light-emitting diodes, LED lights are currently popular for weddings because they use much less electricity (and don't get as hot) than regular, incandescent light bulbs. They are also available in a wireless feature so they are even more discreet.
Uplights – These are commonly LED lights that are placed around the perimeter of your venue to cast an illuminating glow around the room. Today’s technology allows for these to stay a static color all night or change as different activities occur in the room such as cake cutting, first dance and the late night dancing.

Assess Your Site
If you're planning an evening reception, make sure to visit your site at least once when it's dark outside. Look around the room and see where the fixed lighting is focused. Lights that illuminate the walls, windows, and ceiling can draw attention away from the center of the room -- and you want to keep everyone's eyes on the tables, dance floor, and each other. Ask if the site has dimmers for their overhead lights or if their florescent lighting can be turned off. Also, make sure there won't be any service doors kept open, which could flood the space with light and ruin the effect.

Use Color
As well as the multiple colors in your wedding gown think outside your wedding palette when you use colored lights. Try to incorporate colors that you have incorporated in your centerpieces to keep consistency throughout the event. Your own wedding outfit, table linen and backdrops are other features to look to when thinking of colors choices for your event.

Choose the Right Lights
It is always important to keep in mind the layout of your reception venue. High ceilings versus low ceilings will dramatically change how the lighting will enhance the room. Pin spotting in a room with high ceilings can really accentuate your floral centerpieces and finally, gobos can be fun with monograms on the dance floor or patterns on the wall. Work with your lighting designer to figure out which type of lighting fits your budget.

No matter what lighting you chose know that lighting puts your other elements on steroids. If you spend $25,000 on flowers, and $10,000 on lighting done properly, it will look like you spent $75,000 on flowers. Again the sky is the limit on lighting and it is only going to get better with time.

Thursday, March 10, 2011

Who sits where?

It’s one of the most daunting tasks when approaching your wedding celebrations, putting together the seating charts. After you have figured out which guests will be seated at which table you need to figure out how you will communicate that information to your guests on the big day. There are Place Cards, Escort Cards, Scrolls and more. You may be wondering what all the lingo means, here are some pointers:



Place Card:
A place card indicates exactly where a guest should be seated, including which table, and which seat at the table. This card is placed at the guest’s seat. You may use a Place Card in conjunction with an…

Escort Card:
An escort card tells a guest which table he or she is to be seated at. Most often you will find one card per couple on a table during the cocktail hour.



Scroll:
Instead of giving each guest a “card” you may choose to keep all of the guest seating information in one place. This is often beautifully done on a scroll. Besides giving guests a place to check back if they loose their escort card a scroll can be a beautiful keepsake for the bridal couple. It may be more difficult to make last minute changes to seating if you chose to use a scroll, so keep that in mind when allocating your time to assign seating.



Thinking about scraping all of them? DON’T! I promise you, you will have some tables half empty, and 18 of your colleagues trying to squeeze into one so they can sit together. If you are not up for assigning each seat, take some time and at least assign each guest to a table.

Do yourself a favor and do your seating chart in Microsoft Excel. Provide your coordinator (or a trusty friend) with two copies of the list, one sorted in alphabetical order by last name and another sorted by table number. This will allow your coordinator to help guests find their table number if they can’t find their name on a card or the scroll. It will also allow the coordinator to know where open seats are quickly if the guest’s RSVP did not reach you in time to assign their table.

When it comes time to assign tables think about where the speakers are going to be set-up, which tables will be closest to service doors (and thus server chatter and some kitchen noise) and which family members and other VIPs you want seated closest to you and your bridal party. Enlist the help of both families if you are having trouble placing people, especially those you might not know as well.

Take a deep breathe, when you get to this step you are in the home stretch!

Thursday, March 3, 2011

Buff and Beautiful

Every bride has a vision of what they will look like on their wedding day. In most of our daydreams we are a little thinner, have hair worthy of a shampoo commercial and clear, glowing, skin. If only we could daydream that into life.

After doing some research on how to get the most bang for our buck in wedding prep, here are some helpful tips:

Hydrate! Water intake is important for our body to function well, and it keeps our skin looking young and supple. You’ll also stay young by…

Getting your zzzs. I know, it’s easier said than done, but try to schedule some rest for yourself. You’re make-up artist won’t have to worry about bags under your eyes, and you’ll have energy to…

Exercise your stress out, go for a jog or take a kick-boxing class to work out your wedding related anxiety. Be sure to…

Balance your workout. There is too much of a good thing, so don’t just jump on a treadmill and call it a day. You will see your best results if you incorporate weight/resistance training. You don’t have to bulk up, but aren’t we all hoping for toned arms ala Jennifer Aniston?! Also try to make time for yoga to de-stress and keep those muscles looking long and lean. Speaking of balance…

Balance your diet. Eating a balanced diet can help keep your hormones and emotions in check, which is important leading up to such a big event. Beware of caffeine and sugar, they are not your friend in this time. But it is important for you to…

Find a friend! Working out and eating healthy is much easier if you have someone else in your corner. I bet your mom, sister or one of your friends is also hoping to shape up for your wedding. Set time each week to exercise together, and check-in regularly on your progress

The days and weeks leading up to your wedding are sure to be full of fun, but also stress and anxiety. Take time for yourself and you will look AND feel better for your big day.

Thursday, February 17, 2011

It Takes a Village

Anyone who has been part of a wedding knows that it takes a village. Not just the village of family of friends, but the team of vendors who will work together to make your wedding dream a reality.


The average wedding has anywhere from 5 – 15 different vendors providing services from food to photography to beauty services.


Here are my top 5 tips for working with vendors:

1. Get it in writing. You should have a contractual agreement with each vendor, and the contract should detail their services and any of your special requests.

2. Assign someone to be a liaison with each vendor for the day of the wedding. As the bride you should not have to worry about final payments, etc.

3. Communicate your wants and needs, before the big day. Be sure that each person or team you have hired is clear on your expectations of the day. Trust me, reputable vendors want to make your day special as much as you want them to perform at their best.

4. Ask for recommendations. Ask family and friends about their experiences, and vendors that they have been happy with in the past. Once you have found a vendor you trust, ask them who they work with as well.

5. Ask the “What If?” questions. What if… my party runs late, you’re sick the day of my wedding, someone breaks a vase, our date changes, etc.

Remember, you and your vendors both want your wedding day to be a stunning success, so work together as a team and you are sure to be pleased.

Friday, January 14, 2011

2010: A Year in Photos

2010 was a wonderful year for weddings and other events at Oliveaire. There really is no better way to recap a year of work than photos. We hope you enjoy these as much as we enjoy seeing thme again.


The beautiful grand ballroom foyer at Hyatt Regency O'Hare


Wonderful natural light at Doubletree Downers Grove's Esplanade Lakes


Thanks to Delora and John for allowing us to be part of their day at the Westin Chicago North Shore


A beautiful day at Signature Events at Seven Bridges


Natural elements showcase the space at Pinstripes


Awe-inspiring mandap by the Oliveaire design team


Elegant lounge at the Westin Lombard Yorktown Center

We are looking forward to 2011 events and a whole new year of pictures and memories.

Happy New Year!

Friday, November 12, 2010

Selecting a Venue (Part 1)

Today Forrest Moody, Managing Director, of Oliveaire is tapping into his vast experience working in hotels to provide great tips on how to select your wedding venue. Take it away Forrest...

Well he has popped the question and you have accepted. You are feeling like you can fly and take on the world at the same time. Now your best friend, in her jubilation, asks where the ceremony and reception are going to take place. Suddenly your balloon deflates and you come back to earth to take on the task of finding the perfect venue for your special event. Do I want a religious ceremony in a place of worship? Do I want sit down dinner or buffet style service? What time of day do I want all of these activities to happen? The wedding reception is the largest expenditure for most wedding couples so taking your time and evaluating your decisions is important.

The top 12 criteria to consider for your Wedding Ceremony and Reception:

1. How many people do you anticipate inviting to your special event?
This is probably the most important aspect when starting to look for a venue. This will dictate how large of an event space you will need in order to accommodate your guests. Also, keep in mind that your guest count will be approximately 20% less then the number of people that you invite for various reasons. Many of the points below will be in direct relation to the estimated attendance for your event.


2. What is your estimated budget for the ceremony and reception location?
This is an extremely important factor before you start your search. Every venue will ask this question up front, and it can save countless hours of searching if you have an idea of this in advance. Also keep in mind that most venues will also have a service charge and tax added to their package prices sometimes increasing the listed package price by almost 30%. Keep this in mind when considering your budget.

3. Do you want a religious ceremony in a place of worship or can it be held at the same venue as the reception?
This is important to consider in determining if you have to find two venues or only one. Although places of worship are relatively inexpensive, it can save some money if you combine the two events at one facility. Always ask the question of your venue if there is an additional charge for the ceremony.


4. Will you require any hotel rooms for out of town guests?
This should be considered even if you are not having your event at a hotel. If you have out of town guests you will want them to stay close to the reception location, and also see if the facility offers some type of transportation back and forth from their hotel. If you are at a hotel venue for your event(s), ask the venue manager for a special room rate for your out of town guests. You will need to supply them an approximate number of hotel rooms needed. Depending upon the hotel and number of rooms requested you may be required to sign a contract for the guest rooms.

5. Would you like an aspect of your venue or event to be outdoors?
This is a key element to inquire in advance as not all venues offer an outdoor option.


6. Do you have any special requests such as windows, chandeliers or special architecture that you would like to see from your special event venue?
Again this is a key item to do your research in advance. Most venues have very informative websites that can answer most of these questions without wasting the time of trying to call the venue.


This should get you started thinking about your venue search. We will continue next week with the remainder of the top twelve criteria to consider for your wedding venue. We will get into some more fun things next week such as food, beverage and even wedding cakes.

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Style File

Bridal trends are always changing and adapting to today's bridal couples. Here are some of the hot trends we're seeing as we get ready to say goodbye to 2010 and hello to 2011:

Design Studio
Mandap a Trendy Transformation

A wood craved mandap speaks of culture and tradition. But in 2010, a contemporary design will be influenced in creating mandap designs. Our Creative Director, Tina Marie, tells us taht fabric transformation with modern elegance will definitely be seen more in the upcoming years. Brides are looking for the non-traditional look, at the same time respecting their heritage and religious representation. The newest "Glitterati" mandap at Oliveaire was designed specially to cater to the progressive chic brides. With a fabric canopy, crystal columns and raining orchids it will create the glamour and opulence of a dream wedding. Brides are choosing bold colors and styles that are beyond the traditional red, orange and white. We have created mandaps that are semi-customizable allowing the bride the luxury to select her fabric colors with a mix and match palette.

Mandap’s that are transformed with flowing fabrics and flowers, with a touch of bling, will be the fashion trend for upcoming nuptials. Indian weddings are fashion forward and can push the boundaries of creativity. Floral Designers are inspired to create a one of a kind ceremonial ground that will speak to the bride and groom's personality. Branding your mandap is the trend for upcoming weddings, as Brides add flair and signature essence to their Big day.


Fashion
Dressing your man

When it comes to wedding fashion, grooms are definitely overlooked. A much deserved hub-bub is showered on the Princess bride and her trousseau, but sadly enough not as much on the Prince. The fashion world is in tune with men’s clothing now more than ever before. Top Indian designers Manish Malhotra, Neeta Lulla, Manish Arora and Rocky S are few that tailor to the modernized blend of Indian and Western fashion.

Brides, don’t you want your groom to look debonair standing next to you? Be sure to complement your bridal collection to his stylish cut Sherwani accessorized with paagris (head wear), moojris (footwear) and dupatta (scarves). Style up your man as he is the Prince Charming you have waited for.


Photo Credit to R.E.M. Photography

For the men’s only fashion visit amara, undoubtedly stylish and chic in menswear or visit Bargello, an online Indian boutique that caterers to all your fashion needs.

Planning Tip
Set up time

Prior to designing your floral décor, check with the venue on the access to your ballroom space. If you have an elaborate set up, or the vendor is limited on staff, it may require more than two hours of set up time (which is the typical time allowed by busy venues). Setting up a mandap, backdrop and aisle ware can take as much as 4 to 6 hours.


Food
Progressive Modern Fusion Indian Cuisine

The next generation of Indian cuisine, with artistic presentation, has finally arrived. The biggest complaint about making Indian food modern or stylish is the sacrifice of the ethnic taste. Serving only one course of plated Indian meal pales in comparison to the lavish buffets that can be offered at weddings. At Oliveaire we have partnered with Gaylord Fine Indian Cuisine and Phil Stefani Signature Events to serve traditional Indian cuisine, with an artistic presentation.


A heavenly six courses of culinary experience, with course after course that will wow the most discerning palate has taken center stage. If a bridal couple is looking to be trendsetters and definitely fall onto the foodie group, this Indian Fusion menu was made for you.

Cheers!

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

How Will You Make Your Exit?

I know you hate to think about it being over, but trust me, your wedding day will fly by in the blink of an eye. Be sure to take time throughout the day to look around, take it all in and have fun. After all you have been waiting for this moment your whole life.

Have you thought about how you will exit your party? Will you party until the last guest leaves? Arrange an elaborate sendoff for all to see? You have put together every detail of your celebration. Be sure to give your guests something to remember on your way out!


Whatever you decide, it is important for you to also have a plan for the end of the night details, and I don’t mean in your honeymoon suite.

Transportation: Is your reception being held in the hotel where your room is booked? If not, how are you getting to your bed? One of my favorite cautionary tales is of the bride and groom who needed a cab to their downtown condo at the end of the night, but did not have cash, a credit card or a debit card on them. Luckily their Oliveaire Wedding Planner saw them on her way out of the hotel, and gave them $20 to get home.

Overnight Accommodations: My advice, have someone check you into your hotel room, and give you the room key before you go. Also, think through how you will be getting to that honeymoon suite. Be sure to have some cash, a credit/debit card and your cell phone (with the important phone numbers programmed in) delivered to you at the end of the night by someone you trust (probably the same person who checks you into your hotel room). If you are party hardy couple, don’t drink and drive. Arrange for a car to pick you up or have a designated driver.

Gifts: How are your gifts being taken care of? Make sure to assign a close family member the responsibility of attending to your gifts. It will then be that person’s responsibility to secure the envelopes and move boxes of gifts. Your reception venue may have a safety deposit box you can keep them in until the end of the reception, but then it is your responsibility to make sure they are picked up. Have a plan for where you will take those generous gifts the next day. The sooner you get that money in the bank, the better, especially if you plan on catching a plane soon.


The Morning After: Headed to the airport the next morning? Make sure that your luggage is packed, and that your tickets and documentation are all easily accessible and ready to go! Nothing puts a damper on a honeymoon like forgotten passports or lost luggage (or a hangover FYI).

Not catching a plane quite yet? Be sure to have a ride home arranged!

None of this will take too much work, just a little bit of forethought on your part. Enjoy that beautiful and monumental day in your life. Happy Honeymoon!

Thursday, July 15, 2010

What TO Wear

To me, the best part of being a bride in the summer are all of the vibrant colors and unique fabrics you can bring to your wedding, specifically in your attire. Brides, as you start deciding on the colors and styles of your trousseau, here are some bridal trends that continue to be popular:

Fabrics:
Brocades, silks, georgette and chiffons.


Photo provided by CharismaIndia

Styles:
The plain Ghagra style is no longer to be seen. It is now replaced with the likings of the A-line or Mermaid style, which is crafted to give the bride a feminine and sculpted look. The blouses are short with longer dupattas.

Colors:
The color to adore this season is pink, in shades pale to deep. Brides, be sure to pick the proper shade to compliment your skin tone.


Photo provided by CharismaIndia

Embroidery:
Traditional zardosi embroidery is being taken over by kundan, mirror, and Swarowski crystal work.


Photo provided by CharismaIndia

The trend is now to blend the traditional with the contemporary. While each of us likes the traditional colors and styles, the key is to add the new era of fashion to the existing expectations. A few things to keep in mind: fabric, style, embroidery, and color are each important individually, but also together. You don’t want to use a fabric and style that won’t suit your body type, or choose a color that will not compliment you, on and off camera. When a brides walks in the room, heads should turn and guests should think "This bride looks amazing, head to toe!". As the generation changes, more emphasis is placed on having a unique sense of style, wearing something no one has worn before. There are many options available these days for a bride to make an outfit her own, and something no one else has. Remember, the way you look at your wedding, from head to toe, will be captured as a memory that will last longer than a lifetime. Make sure you are more than happy with what you have on!

Finally, remember ladies, you should wear the trousseau, the trousseau shouldn’t wear you!