The Keren Lifrak Blog

A few weeks ago my dear friend Ellie had her baby shower. Ellie is a fabulous photographer and her talented sister had arranged her shower at one of our favorite girly spots -- Shoogie boogie's. Dana set up a really cute game where each one of he guests had to bring a baby picture of themselves. The guests had to full in a sheet and guess who was who. That kept us all busy for a while...  i did the flowers and Cat Pennenga was of course on the camera. 

By Keren Lifrak Weddings & Special Events

In two weeks Ashley and Jaime will celebrate this grand wedding at the Ringling Museum. One of my favorite features is something I came up with for this 1920's, peacock feathered extravaganza -- a cake that features the architectural details of the Ca d'Zan. I can only imagine what the real deal will look like... I for one can't wait!

Here we are, post Valentine's Day... and I though I would mention one of my favorite favors -- for a wedding or just to tell someone you love them this is a super sweet way to do so -- the Macaron! Crispy and fluffy Meringue on the outside and creamy almond paste on the inside. They come in almost any color and flavor you desire. Some have traced its French debut back to the arrival of Catherine de Medici's Italian pastry chefs whom she brought with her in 1533 upon marrying Henry II of France. If you happen to be in Paris you MUST stop at Laduree, one of the most famous patisseries which offeres endless Macaron flavors. In Sarasota, Florida we have our local version at Le Macaron on St Armand's Circle and they do justice to the little ol' Macaron. Delic!!!

Bon appetit... from Keren.

Once again, a little fabric goes a long way. Stephanie was on a budget for her wedding reception. She got married at the Sarasota Yacht Club, Florida. With stunning water views one doesn't need much to top that... However, the club is open to its members at all times. In order to create a subtle separation between the bar and dining room where the wedding guests were, our very own talented Daniel draped the entryway with a sheer fabric that added a festive and private feel -- enough to give people the idea "this is where the wedding is taking place."

-Keren Lifrak Weddings & Special Events

Those who know me, know that I'm a sucker for almost anything vintage. I recently was introduced to a fabulous invitation company called Lucky-Luxe based in Mississippi. Erin, the owner creates wonderfully authentic looking "vintage-ized" images of almost anything and turns them into lovely old fashioned looking postcards. We are currently working on Ashely and Jaime's Dave the Date cards from the Ca d'Zan mansion. I can't wait to see the final result!!!

- Keren Lifrak, wedding planner

One of my favorite video trends is using the old 16mm or super 8 cameras to bring back that nostalgic look to the wedding video footage. I think that everyone gets a bit nostalgic at wedding (or at least some of us...). As a Dad looks at his daughter after giving her away, he remembers his little girl as she appeared on the lense of his camera 20 years ago on black and white or sepia tones with fuzzy looking interferances due to the quality of film back then. That's what some of these videographers do deliberately these days. I just love the effect it gives the footage -- makes you feel so warm inside. I've had the pleasure of working with Andy Jackson, owner of Portal Films. His works speaks for itself...
-Keren Lifrak

One of the editors at "The Knot" emailed me yesterday that they shared the wedding planning idea of the Lego Place Cards with their blog readers. Here it is again, from Tirsa and Brian's wedding at the Ringling Museum. It's retro, it's inexpensive and it's unique (just make sure they kids don't get their hands on it!).
http://community.theknot.com/cs/ks/blogs/wedding_style_file/default.aspx

Photo: Nina Sutherland Photography

Photo: Ellie Campbell Photography

 

I met Talia, the owner of Green Apple Accessories through the Ring Corsage photoshoot. Talia crafts beautiful leather accessories such as hair pieces, shoe clips and more that I absolutely adore! The different styles would be a great customized touch to any wedding, especially if your favorite flower is out of season... My tip of the week is by Talia of Green Apple Accessories: "The advantage of finding a simple timeless dress is that the bride can have fun with accessories. Try adding colored shoes to your dress for a bit of pop as you walk down the isle, or take notice of the ribbon used for the flower pieces. Maybe try polka dots or stripes for a little variety in texture. This is an area many times passed over that can add to the overall look of the day."