A well informed guest is a happy guest

Destination weddings are still the biggest trend today. As opposed to 150 or 350 guests in your hometown, you take between 40 - 50 people to a gorgeous destination. Places like the US VI, The United States Virgin Islands is a ideal location. So now a bride gets to have Joy Agness Events design her wedding. With nine different looks to choose from and all customizable and for a fraction of the price. So all the guesswork is taken out for her, with flexibility. We understand that the bride wants to make her own decisions and wants to be able to customize it in each one of these packages. She has the ability them up or dress them down.

 

What I have been able to do is articulate different looks, like each one is it's own personality. Each one speaks to a different bride. From the Fiery hot Bride, to the Sophisticated bride, to the beach bride, to the bride who wants to embrace lots of color and for the bride who wants a dreamy wedding.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For destination brides, the planning process is an on-line experience for them, We wish the brides, the planning process to take the time to taste the food and see the venues and be surprised but many brides don't do this. So as a destination Bride, you need to have tremendous confidence that you and your guests will have the experience you hope for, that is important. It is very easy nowadays to fly somewhere.

Weddings don't have to cost a fortune and destination weddings don't have to go to Bora-Bora or an exotic island in the Mediterranean. The whole idea is to take a small group of friends and family to somewhere treasured for a jam packed weekend of fun. Starting with the welcome dinner/lunch. Activities during the day. The Wedding itself and then a brunch the following day. What a way to enjoy and celebrate.

 

For a Bride who is planning a destination wedding. Here are a few things  you might consider to accommodate your guests:

 

Send out your save the dates with a hint of your destination, picture, hotel, address, etc.

 

Then send out your invitations.

 

You can send a confirmation package. This can tell your guests, what to expect, what to wear, how to get there, what time they need to be there, information on the hotel, transportation and other pertinent information.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Prepare a welcome package, to go into guest rooms for when they arrive, This can include an itinerary, reminding  them of where they need to be and where they need to be.

 

Find out if any one has special needs or needs a little more attention. It always shows good on your part, that you are considerate and caring.

Bridal Shows & Expo's

Who to attract? Shows work if you do the right show. Anytime you can bring hundred's of potential customers to see you, you will get business. Do not stay behind your table or booth.

Hosting a bridal show is not as easy as everyone thinks. It takes careful planning and countless hours of execution, be mindful that most bridal shows and expo's are trademarked. Research the name you would love to use, so in going forward. You will place yourself in Litigation proceedings or lawsuits. In doing a bridal show and expo. 

Connect with vendors that are like minded. start visiting other bridal shows and events  to get an idea of what to do on your day. Try to get giveaways and discount coupons to give your brides, they always help.

Lots of social media, blogging and advertising are required, remember the Brides today are well educated and they are always looking for deals. Unless you are mentally prepared and ready to face the the music, do not get started. Questions will be asked if you mix and mingle with your crowd, they need that interaction and so do you. Be knowledgeable of what you are doing, an educated customer or client is a good one. 

Elements to your show are, Lighting, Music, Food, Entertainment are features you must have. Choose vendors of whom, you have seen their work, so you would have an idea of what you are having the day of your show. Doing a bridal show is not for the faint of heart or any show for that matter. 

You are not just catering to potential brides, you are also catering to families and bridal parties. Also other potential vendors if you are thinking of having more that one event. Getting the brides is one thing, but you must be different to set yourself apart from the other shows Choose something special to do or have a give-away. Set yourself apart. All they best to anyone who is thinking of doing a Bridal Show or Expo.

Fusing Two cultures in marriage in a Destination Wedding.

There is a new wave in marriages these days, It's called Cultural Infusion. I had the pleasure of being apart of an Indian / African Wedding, hosted in the beautiful Trinidad and Tobago. The venue was beautiful, luscious colors, very vibrant. Gold, White & Yellow. Each side was represented very beautifully. There are a few key factors that is a must to plan a beautiful culturally infused wedding and a few elements in a destination wedding.

Be accommodating to the guests & family. It helps the wedding go smoothly.

Do some research find out more about your significant other's culture.

As one of the activities before the wedding have a Cultural game. Where you can break the ice and have each family find out more about each other in a relaxed setting.

Include a dish or a special treat from both cultures in either your cocktail hour or reception, or have a full tasting menu focusing on each culture, for a lunch or dinner before the wedding.

For a entertaining factor have a dance group showcasing each culture during the reception. Give your DJ music from both cultures or see if you can have Different live bands from both, so each side can be equally entertained.

As many of your guests will normally book an extra 2 days before and after your wedding. Make sure that your guests are occupied with events.

Plan a full schedule for each day, your guests will be at the hotel.

Find someone that is responsible in the crowd or see if your hotel has program's coordinator, to be the go-to person. (Making sure everyone is where they're supposed to be. The areas that are designated for scheduled events. Getting to and from locations if they are leaving the hotel property) 

This takes pressure off the couple, the bridal party, etc.

Photography is a very effective component in a destination wedding, in any wedding. Make sure they capture the special moments, pictorial views of details you would not be able to see. If possible see if you can have photography done for a few hours for some of your guest activities to show a full view of your wedding excursions.

Always remember to give your guests, handwritten thank you notes. It gives a special touch to those who traveled to be with you and your family.

A destination wedding is exciting, vibrant and Joyous. The beauty of a destination wedding is seeing another country or state with family and friends. It could be your childhood or grandparents home; A city or state you have visited before, the couple's dream honeymoon location. Whatever it is that's taking you to your destination, let it be one of peasant memories.

Make everyone feel valuable, a personal touch for friends and family, who could not make it, is a video of your wedding. It's a great present to give to loved ones who couldn't share your special day in person.

Congratulations To Alvin & Sparkle.

10 Guidelines to a Joyous Encore Wedding

So you've been married before and you have decided to take a chance at love again. The encore wedding is for the bride who is making the trip down the aisle for the second time or even the 3rd or 4th. With an encore wedding, there's less stress as you have an idea on what to expect. You also have a chance to try some of the ideas, you may feel you have missed out on the last time. Here are a few guidelines to make it a joyous event.

• Keep it simple, don't let the details take over, plan together. Today both Brides and Grooms are actively involved in planning their weddings.

• Find meaningful ways to include your children in the celebrations, and in your future lives. Tell your children first, no matter their ages.

• Reassure family and long term friends that they will continue to play an important part in your lives.
  

• Build your celebrations around those traditions and themes that are most meaningful to you, and have confidence in your choices, make sure however that in making these choices, you have given consideration to those involved and that your choices will not alienate them or make them feel uncomfortable.

• Be realistic about your budget. In all likelihood it's just the two of you footing the bill.

• Make sure you have put closure on your first marriage Legally, Financially and emotionally. Put away engagement rings from past marriages, you can save them for future generations or have the stones reset into other jewelry.

• Register for gifts that you want, even if you don't expect gifts, many guests will want to. Giving them registries are helpful for those trying to select something for that couple. Be sure to register for a range of prices.

• Remember that Thank you notes never go out of style. A written note should be sent for every wedding gift you've received, within 3 months of the date of the receipt of the gift and remember; Grooms can write Thank You notes too.

• Whether verbally or with a small token of thanks, be sure to thank anyone who has done anything for you. Rather it be Vendor service providers, clergy or friends.

• When the big day arrives, relax and enjoy your wedding.
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The importance of attending Conferences in your field.

Who has time to attend conferences?

In business it is important to keep a high profile and let people know that you exist. You are your own best ambassador and the most effective representative of your brand. Circulating, talking about your story and your company, building relationships with other businesses is all part of marketing yourself and your business. Conferences and networking events provide businesses with the opportunity to get away from the work environment for a while and meet like minded professionals in a more relaxed setting If you’re a small business owner, you probably feel as though you’re already spread too thin. With so much on your plate, you probably don’t think you can take on anything else, especially something as time consuming as traveling to conferences around the country and the world. If its possible, however, you should consider attending conferences that are related to your field. The ROI you get from attending conferences can be enormous. Here’s why:

Conferences are an opportunity to network.

Conferences give you a chance to rub elbows with the major players in your field and connect with people who may be interested in referring you to potential clients. Networking in your local community can only get you so far. Going to conferences gives you a chance to network on a national and global level, which can ultimately do your business a lot of good.

Conferences help you stay ahead of the curve.

Conferences can teach you a lot of new things and ultimately help you improve your overall business practices. The best conferences in your field will expose you to new ideas, new practices, new research, and new trends. Going to conferences is one of the best ways to stay in the know.

Conferences are a time for you to de-stress.

Going to a conference is, in some ways, like going on vacation. You shouldn’t necessarily abandon all efforts to stay productive while traveling to and attending conferences. However, you should use trips to conferences as a chance to sit back, relax, and learn, which is probably just want the doctor ordered to help you prevent over-exhaustion and burn out.

The Love n Sunshine Destination Wedding Conference is the Go-To Conference of the year. Being held at the historical Biltmore Hotel, Coral Gables, Florida. Sunday October 20, 2013. Presented by South Miami's Elite Joy Agness Event's. Destination Wedding Specialist Extraordinaire.

With a spectacular lineup of the Elite Industry Leaders, This year's Conference Headliners are Globally renowned Celebrity Floral Designer and Wedding Planner: Preston Bailey; Emmy nominated TV Host and Author. Mar Jennings.  Award winning Editor and Creator of the International Luxury Wedding Magazine Grace Ormonde. Just to name a few. See our lineup of speakers)

The highlights of this year's conference are not limited to the Breakout session and panel discussions, there are 2 Book signing and Photo OP sessions, a Book launching Event, A Live Floral Demo from this year's keynote speaker. Preston Bailey, Exhibitor and Expo showcase and for the ultimate end to an enriching day, The Color, Flavor & Rum Reception. 

Join us for our 1st SouthEast tour of the Love n Sunshine Destination Wedding Conference. 

The Conference is geared towards all International and Local Wedding Professionals in the Luxury market. Our emphasis on the Destination Wedding Market has garnered attendees from South America, Europe and North America.  This years conference has Sessions with varying topics from all spectrum's of the Industry and you will leave feeling motivated and enriched. Come out, get a chance to meet the industry leaders, network with like minded individuals and have a fulfilling day of learning, networking and fun.

For more information visit our website at www.LovenSunshine.com

Contact us at Info@LovenSunshine.com / Lovensunshinedwc@gmail.com

877 345 4078 Ext. 2 or 954 345 7517 Ext. 2

What to do with a demanding Bride?

It's understanding that Bride's want their wedding day to be perfect, but some get carried away and obsess about details. Your situation could be worse, there are Bride's who have told their attendants to Lose weight, have their teeth capped, hold off getting pregnant or undergo skin treatments, even as extreme as plastic surgery before the wedding.

If this is your situation, you and the other attendants should meet with the Bride now and talk about your issues. Be as kind as you can, she may not realize that her instructions are excessive, but let her know that you are united. Explain you objections clearly and rationally, look for some compromise. You'll be glad to discuss make up and hairstyles; suggestions even, but the final choice is up to you. You might bring up cost but don't let it be your main issue, If the bride says she pay you back.



For the discussion to go well, be prepared with Positive and Negative comments. A few well deserved compliments can do wonders if she reacts badly. Give her time to calm down and think. If she still insists on having it her way you have Two choices. Go along with it graciously or Get out amiably. Though hopefully it won't come to that point. Should you decide to resign, avoid blaming or saying anything that could end friendship. Good people can do very foolish things under stress and your friend may someday regret her imperious (rude) behavior. Whatever you decide the goal is to create a look for the entire wedding party that is harmonious and suitable for the occasion.



There are many decisions to be made as a Bride.For EG. Reception decisions:

• Where will you hold the reception.

• How will you work with your vendors.

• What type of Food service will you have.

• What type of beverage service.

• How will you handle seating arrangements.

• Transportation: How will you and the wedding party get from the ceremony to the reception.

The goal of a wedding is two fold. To create a Celebratory atmosphere and to ensure the physical and emotional comfort of your guests. The Success of the wedding depends on the choices you make as a Bride.

Love n Sunshine Destination Wedding Conference. PRESS RELEASE

PRESTON BAILEY & MAR JENNINGS TO HEADLINE WEDDING CONFERENCE & EXPO

Miami, FL, July 22, 2013- Joy Agness, CEO of South Miami’s Joy Agness Events, presents Love & Sunshine, a global destination wedding conference and expo scheduled for Sunday, October 20, 2013 at the world-renowned Biltmore Hotel located in Coral Gables, Florida.

Love & Sunshine Destination Wedding Conference & Expo is the premier training resource for wedding professionals in the luxury market to network with industry leaders, keep up with the latest trends, and learn effective business strategies to grow their skills in the destination wedding industry.

“I’m delighted to offer such an event for the industry while also providing a platform for other businesses to highlight their professional services and products. There is no better place to bring the magic and the passion of the wedding industry together to help professionals learn to grow their own businesses than surrounded by the ambiance of The Biltmore Hotel. Preston Bailey and Mar Jennings are incredible, and offer just an example of the guest speakers we will have at this our first event. I anticipate great responses from the industry all over the world, wedding businesses and the local press as they have all embraced the business of making dreams come true,” said Joy Agness.

This one-day event will feature Preston Bailey who is globally-celebrated for his ability to completely transform raw, ordinary spaces into lush, theatrical environments. Bailey is known for his unique ability to translate the dreams of each client into an awe-inspiring reality. Preston will share stories, tips, inspirations, and lessons he has learned in his 30-plus year career.

Special guest star and speaker Mar Jennings, a nationally renowned TV Host, Lifestyle Expert
 and best-selling author known for his signature style Casual Luxury, will speak on building your own empire and brand one day at a time. Jennings is the host of many lifestyle shows, including Dream Wedding and is the columnist behind “You Can’t Get Married without MAR” for CT Gets Married; over the years, he has appeared on HGTV, the Today Show, QVC, the Style Network, Food Network, FOX, ABC, CBS and CNN.

About Joy Agness:
Joy Agness is a certified Preston Bailey Wedding & Event Designer with accreditation from Lovegevity Wedding Planning Institute (LWPI) and holds a Wedding Planning Diploma. Joy has 24 years experience in the Wedding & Event Planning industry. She was called upon to host the annual Reggae Carnival Fest, a multicultural music festival featuring international artistes and promoters in South Florida. Joy has also been called on by other planners in the industry to assist and manage large scale events. She is a preferred vendor at numerous venues and premiere wedding affiliated firms.

She was inducted into the Cambridge WHO's WHO for outstanding Executives, Professionals and Entrepreneurs in 2008 and has been inducted in the Strathmore’s WHO's WHO Worldwide for exemplary professionals in 2012.

Other Speakers and Panelist Include: Grace Ormonde, Simon T Bailey, Jacqueline Johnson, Therese Cole Hubbs, Rick DiCecca, Cho Phillips, Marilyn Cairo, Richard & Julia Markel and many others.

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