Event Planning Class Miami Dade West Campus

After a long break from teaching, I am back in the game! Today I begin teaching the Event Planning Class which will take place at Miami Dade West Campus (Doral). The classes will be held every Tuesday from 6:30-9:30pm. If you wish to enroll, please contact Yvette Crichlow at 305.237.8914.

Wish me luck!!!

Pictures of me!!

Last week I truly felt like a DIVA!!! I had the pleasure and honor of working closely with Martha Ramirez from UDS Photo. When I approached her for my pictures, I advised I had never really taken any pictures of "just me" before. I really had no idea what to do, where and how to stand etc.. Martha made me feel great and was a pro at calming me down! Her professionalism and friendliness allowed me to pose naturally in order for her to capture my best shots!

For me, communication is the key to everything and I feel that allowing my clients to see the "real" me is crucial. I consider myself a very professional being but at the same time I make it a point to enjoy life, my family and what I do...

I have received many compliments on the pictures posted above. Many people say that it resemble the "true Alice". I agree, for those that know me, they know I LOVE to laugh and loud may I add.. Life brings your great challenges and our job is to face them and be strong!

Thanks for stopping by!!!!!!!!

Pamela's voyage on the Titanic

On August 2, 2008, Pamela Castillo celebrated her 16th birthday at Jungle Island. The theme was Titanic. For those of you that know me well, you know that Titanic is my favorite movie ever! I have seen it probably more than 50 times (I am not kidding). When my client came to me and told me that she wanted her birthday to include something with a ship.. I said of course.. it has to be a Titanic theme! I immediately contacted my friend Mark Baez at Fairytale Designs and shared my crazy ideas with him! He did a fabulous job in interpreting and converting my vision into reality. From life size rescue boats to capturing the logo of the white star on the wall, every replica was done to perfection.

Throughout the months of planning, I did my research well and found some pretty amazing things! I made sure I purchased memorabilia that looked original and truly represented the Titanic era. A couple of weeks prior to the event, I went to Las Vegas and visited the Titanic exhibit. I was so honored to have seen everything that I saw and read all the articles that are included in this amazing and breathe taking exhibit. This really allowed me to make Pamela's event even more creative and unique.

The foyer area at Jungle Island, represented a museum that included pictures, artifacts and boarding passes that included most of the passengers names that boarded on the ship. Once the guests entered the ballroom, they were greeted by amazing floral arrangements done by my great colleague and friend, Jorge Nevot. The linens and chairs were provided by AB Covers and the stage and lighting were provided by Fairytale Designs. The music was provided by Ubi's Music Production and the DJ was accompanied by the magnificent percussionist, Eugenio Doria. Once the guests took their seats, there were two oversized projectors on which the Titanic Movie played throughout the night.

The choreography was done by Liz Sanchez and the young couples did a total of 3 dances. After the choreography was done, the first course was served. During the meal, there was a slideshow with pictures of Pamela growing up with her friends and family. The party began with great music and positive energy. Towards the middle of the party, the guests were suprised with the thrilling beat of brazilian drums and the fascinating brazilian women. Everyone had a fabulous time at the party and could not beleive that so many emotions could be felt in on one very special night!

Hawaiian Cocktail Party in our office

Luis and Magnolia (Utopia Video productions) proudly holding a cup of my "special drink"lol..lol.. and Manolo Doreste - in the back laughing as usual (In Focus studio)

Here I am with Michael Calderin

This is Eduardo from Petunia Flowers. I absolutely love this picture.. he is hilarious!

Here is Miguel (Miguel Irias Photography) showing off his sexy Hawaiian skirt with Tara (photographer) and a very pregnant Amy Hill (photographer)!

Here I am with Christy (UDS Photography) as she is helping me place my coconut bra on!

Ok at this point we all have some of "special drink" in our systems (except Amy of course) from Left to right... Junior (Jr.s Prods. ) Bruce and Deborah (Biltmore) Me and Rodri (Rodrigo Varela Photography) Gonzalo Villot (photographer). Next to Jr, Patricia and Rick (Avant Gardens).

Miguel Irias, Rodrigo Varela, Cat (photographer), Jr, Me and Pilar (Miro Studios)

Me and Rodri







Every month we make it a point to gather our closest friends and have a networking / cocktail party in our office. This past month we decided to celebrate summer and have a Hawaiian themed cocktail party. Everyone had a great time and is excitedly awaiting our next party! Enjoy some pictures..... Make sure to Laugh!

Freestyle Summer Jam Concert

On Saturday, July 26, 2008 at the James L. Knight center we will have the concert of the summer! Taking you back in the days of Casanovas, Club Decos, Club 1235 and Hot Wheels! Live performance by Lisa Lisa, Stevie B, TKA. Lisette Melendez and a surprise performance with over a decadein the making!

Please contact ticketmaster (www.ticketmaster.com) for further information. Doors open at 6:30pm. Come early and enjoy the music of well known DJ's and giveaways~

This is a must see concert.. dont miss it!

See you there....

Summer sale going on at Affairs Remembered

Wedding Planning
Sign a contract for our full service package and receive 10% off (a saving of over $450)!!.
You must sign our contract prior to August 1, 2008 and this discount cannot be combined with any other promotions or applied to any existing contracts. This is only valid on the full service package for wedding coordination.

Invitations
Receive a 15% discount of all ENVELOPMENTS invitations. We will also waive all set up fees and ink charges. This discount is not valid on orders already placed and is only valid until August 1, 2008.

Favors
Receive a 20% discount on all preassembled favors and a 10% discount on favors that require assembling. Choose from Kate Aspen (www.kateaspen.com) and Hortense B. Hewitt (www.hbhwedding.com)

Please inquire about other sales going on for the summer!

Thank you and have a fabulous SUMMER!

Bobba / Lund Wedding

On May 3, 2008 at the elegant and historic Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables, Florida Anthony and Vera tied the knot!

This young and energetic couple (as well as myself) experienced a crazy whirlwind when planning their wedding. Their original location fell through 6 weeks before the wedding date which made us all scramble. Thanks to the wonderful energy this couple releases (as well as good planning and excellent contacts) we were able to secure the Biltmore hotel and proceed with the last minute details of planning.

The day of the wedding was a beautiful sunny day in Coral Gables. Vera looked stunning in her designer dress and anxiously awaiting Anthony to pick her up so that they can go and take portraits around the city she grew up in. After all the pictures were taken it was then time to arrange the bridal party and send everyone down the aisle. Vera and her dad were nervous and I assured them I would not let them walk down the aisle until they have each taken 3 deep breaths. Once down the aisle, Tony's face lit up and I could almost see some tears!

After the ceremony the professionals at Miro Studios took the bridal party and family around the property for some additional portraits and fun pictures. The cocktail hour took place in the hotel lobby and guests were delighted by the musical sounds of Fito Espinola and the rolling of "authentic" cigars by Mya Handmade Cigars.

Once the guests were welcomed in the ballroom, they were wowed to see the transformation the room had taken. Avant Gardens provided beautiful floral centerpieces as well as 4 over sized floral arrangements for the buffet area. The guests were to pick and choose their favorite table and take their seat (there were no assigned seats, instead they were all cocktail tables). Their sign in consisted of an actual photo booth. All guests were required to take pictures and leave their well wishes on a guest book. During dinner, Tony surprised Vera by bringing in the renowned "Three Waiters" performance. They sang soprano and interacted with the guests for about 30 minutes.

After everyone enjoyed the delicious meal, the music kicked off and the party began. It all ended very well and the bride and groom were elated!

It was a pleasure working so closely with Tony and Vera and I am so lucky to consider them very good friends!

Generoso / Nyugen Wedding

Monday evening weddings are not commonly seen or often heard of, however, when it came time for Aimee and Cuong to book their dream location in South Florida availability during a weekday was not an obstacle.

The couple tied the knot on Monday April 21, 2008 at the historical and spectacular Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. While setting up, we encountered stubborn rainfall and mild winds. Aimee and Cuong called me several times during the set up to check in on the weather. I assured them that everything was going to be ok and that they would have their ceremony outdoors as planned. When Aimee arrived she looked drop dead beautiful! She looked like a fairytale princess coming out of the rolls. We carefully escorted her to her place and the began what seemd to be everlasting trip up the stairs to the mound. Cuong's face lit up immediately once he saw his beautiful bride walking towards him.

The amazing ceremony, conducted by Revd. Michael Calderin was about 35 minutes long. Immediately afterwards, the guests were escorted to the east side terrace to enjoy gourmet cocktails served by Mena Catering and his efficient staff.

The tent facing the bayside was adorned with white and pink lights and had an outstanding chandelier hanging above the dance floor. The bottom dock area was adorned with garden benches and the added touch of a candy and dessert buffet stations. The building was washed with hot pink uplights and the garden were lit up with strung lantern lights.

Once the guests were seated, they were greeted by DJ Ubi and were delighted by Aimee and Cuong's choreographed first dance. The formalites followed and the dinner was served. Soon after they enjoyed their plated meal, the party began and the guests began to dance until I literally had to escort them to their shuttle bus.

The one thing that I think the bride and groom enjoyed the most was that they chose to take their portrait pictures the day after. Although Rodrigo Varela did a fabulous job capturing all the formal family portraits, the couple was able to enjoy their cocktail hour and not have to worry about missing out from spending time with their friends and family!

This wedding was very rich and filled with love and carried their cultural background with yet a modern chic style!

Blason / Aguilar Wedding

On Saturday, April 12, 2008 Mercy Blason and Ruben Aguilar became husband and wife in the beautiful Key West, Florida! This dazzling couple couldn't have asked for a more beautiful and perfect day.

The rehearsal dinner took place the friday before and was held at Margaritaville! What a fun and loud place. Neil was great to work with and made sure the area was available well ahead of time!

The religious ceremony took place at the amazing St. Mary's star of the sea followed by delightful reception at the Casa Marina Resort. The ceremony was heartfelt and spiritual and was attended by Mercy and Ruben's closest friends and family. Upon arriving at the church (in an antique rolls, provided by Keys Limo) Mercy looked spectacular and was accompanied down the aisle by her brother.

After the ceremony the guests proceeded to the Casa Marina where they enjoyed a full cocktail hour outside by the newly renovated patio area. The ballroom looked like a dream as it was filled with amazing floral arrangements done by the very talented Gil Sosa. The employees of the Casa Marina (including Ronnie Rupe himself) are not used to seeing such spectacular floral arrangements and beautiful linens, as the traditional decorations for a Key West wedding are more tropical and exotic arrangements, so we had "employee traffic-admirers" for at least a good hour before the party began.

The guests were greeted by the talent of Tradison Band. Lucy Grau did a fabulous job in welcoming the guests to their seats and introducing the newlywed couple. After the traditional dances, the guests were served their appetizer consisiting of shrimp cocktail laying on a wedge of watermelon followed by the traditional ceaser salad and the main entree, Lobster tail and Filet Mignon. By that time, the guests were ready to party and they did just that!

After dinner, Mercy changed into a second dress and Rodrigo Varela took advantage of the spectacular sun setting scene by taking the the most romantic and talented pictures ever!

I must say, at this wedding I did something I had never done before... As soon as the couple arrived at the hotel, I escorted them into the ballroom (so that they can take a peek) and I had them do their cake cutting pictures / video. This saved us time while we were able to capture them while they still looked fresh and happy and not tired and "sweaty"! This worked out great for the timeline and they were able to enjoy their party time to it's fullest.

It was an extreme pleasure working with Ronnie and the Casa Marina. Although prior to the wedding working with him was a bit stressful (it's a general Key West attitude), on the day of everything worked out and went out without a glitch!

Thanks to all the wonderful vendors who took part in this celebration and most importantly.. thank you Mercy and Ruben for allowing me to be a part of your special day!

FREESTYLE Music Awards 2008

On Wednesday March 26, 2008, the first annual Freestyle Music Awards took place at the Dade County Auditorium in Miami. I had the pleasure of working closely with Lily and Leonard Bolden from Bolden Productions, Ovidio Santiago from Clear Channel and Latif Mercado from LA Entertainment. I was in charge of making the VIP area look spectacular and ensuring the event went off without a glitch….. and that is exactly what I did!

On the eve of the awards there was a private –invite only party at the Hyatt in Downtown
Miami to celebrate the upcoming festivities. I was honored with an award for my hard work, passion and dedication to the event. I also had the pleasure of meeting first hand Lil’ Suzy (she is such a nice - genuine person), Coro, Johnny O, Angel and Debbie Deb to name a few.

The day of the event started off with a lot of running around, non-stop phone calls, last minute issues and so on… I was the go-to person with all questions and issues.

We literally converted the parking lot into a VIP tent that looked phenomenal! Gilbert Villela from Christina’s Party Rentals provided all rentals including portable a/c for the tent, oversized generators, over a thousand feet of red carpet, crystal chandeliers and then some… Prior to the award ceremony, the guests were greeted by the oversized and amazing floral arrangements provided by Avant Gardens and the gourmet hordeouvres display provided by Chris Bulgarin from Delicious Catering.

The actual show was spectacular! The performers did a fabulous job taking us all back to the “old” days. It was great seeing everyone come together under one roof. They saved the best for last which was TKA aka K7. They ended their show with their renowned song.. Maria! After the show, the VIP tent was packed with positive energy and happy people!

Many thanks were given to Lily Bolden, Ovidio Santiago and Latif Mercado for their hard work, dedication, passion and constant belief in these artists! I am extremely proud to be a part of such a wonderful event. As stated by Lily many times, “this is only the beginning, next year will be bigger and better” and I am lucky to be a part of that.

May FREESTYLE live on forever!

Almonte / Jirtian Wedding

On Saturday, March 15, 2008, Vilma and Mark were blessed by an absolutely beautiful and amazing day!

The wedding celebration took place at the Double Tree Ocean Point in Sunny Isles, Florida. The ceremony started promptly at 4:30 pm and was officiated by the renowned Reverend Eddie Rodriguez. As Rev. Eddie rang the commencement bells, the guests admiringly turned to receive the bridal procession. As Vilma walked down the aisle accompanied by her older brother, Pedro Almonte, Mark's smile was genuinely glowing!! They performed the sand ceremony which consisted of sand from Santo Domingo (Vilma's hometown) and Boston (Mark's hometown) . Each container of sand was carried and presented by Brian (Vilma's son from a past marriage) and Andres (Mark's son from a previous marriage).

After the ceremony, while the guests enjoyed their outdoor cocktail hour, the couple proceeded to the sandy beach where professional photographer, Maria Baiz took advantage of the moment! She captured the couple running in and out of the water and just having plain old fun!

Once the cocktail was over the guests were escorted to the main dining area and were greeted by the beautiful flowers provided by Gil Sosa and the fabulous tunes provided by Albert Gil from Vision DJ's. The lovely couple danced to a medley of Billy Joel's "Love you just the way you are" and Mana's "Bendita La Luz". Following their dance, the bride danced with both her brothers, "Hero" by Mariah Carey and was concluded by the groom dancing with his sister, "What a wonderful world" by Louis Armstrong. The traditional formalities continued to take place by having speeches and then their first course.

After dinner, the party began and the guests danced until their feet ached! Vilma and Mark seemed to happy to have each other and their families join them on such an important day! It was a true pleasure to see two families come together and share their happiness!

Brides against Breast Cancer

March 7-8, 2008, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

On Saturday, March 8, I (along with 6 of my fabulous and hard working students) had the pleasure of volunteering at the Brides against Breast Cancer Gown sale (www.makingmemories.org) . This took place at the Embassy Suites in Fort Lauderdale. We had the entire ballroom full of beautiful designer dresses ranging in prices of $99 up to $2000. With all proceeds going towards finding the cure for breast cancer, it was a delightful experience helping brides finding the "one". Within 2 hours of the show we had already sold 2 dresses and had 10 brides in the dressing room. It was very exciting to know that my students and I were having fun while helping out the community.

This is definately a great bargain for the brides and I feel it allows them to feel good about the purchase knowing that the proceeds go towards good use. I look forward to continue volunteering my time and expertise.

This event was coordinated by the very talented Lori Patterson from a Memorable Affair and Liz Gomez from Liz Gomez Events. Thank you ladies for being active and for allowing this event to place!

Puente / Gomez Wedding

On March 7, 2008, Janet Puente and Oscar Gomez tied the knot! The church ceremony took place at St. Hugh's Catholic church in Coconut Grove and the wedding reception was held in the Merrick ballroom at the historic Westin Colonnade in Coral Gables.

It was a beautiful day outside. The sun was shinning and the girls were all in the bride's room getting their hair and makeup done. Kevianno excelled in making the girls beautiful and glamorous with his make-up techniques. The hairdresser (whose name I will not release) was the total opposite. She, herself, was 2 hours late (we had a total of 8 people to do their hair) she had sent in an assistant which started some of the girls off, however her presence was needed. As the day progressed, the issue with the hairdresser seemed to have worked out. The girls looked absolutely stunning in their couture bridesmaids gown. Janet looked amazing as she was going down the historical staircase towards her awaiting antique Rolls Royce.

Once at the church, photographer, Claudia Cebrian and videographer, Carolina Bonnelly were awaiting Janet's grand arrival. The groomsmen were in place, the procession was neatly organized as the doors opened and Janet began her procession alongside her proud father, Mr. Ignacio Puente. Oscar's smile lit up the entire church, when he saw his beautiful bride walking down the aisle. The ceremony went by smoothly and the guests began to depart to the reception location.

Upon arrival at the Colonnade, the guests were greeted with drinks, assorted passed hords. and a wonderful Jazz Trio (friends of the bride and groom) . The sign in "book" was a personalized platter and was placed on a beautifully decorated table containing candles, orchids, neatly placed rose petals and various cylinders all product of Gil Sosa. Once the guests were allowed to enter the ballroom, they were wowed by the wonderful sound of Tradison band.

After the formal introductions the salad course was served. Soon to follow was the main entree. During dinner, DJ Ubi provided music selections like bossa nova, light jazz and some spanish guitar selections.

The dancing soon began as Tradison opened up the dancefloor with their traditional and genuine spanish sound! The dancefloor, quickly filled and remained that way until 2:00am.

Overall, the entire event was flawless and thhe bride and groom had a wonderful time at their wedding. The positive comments received from the guests were very rewarding and although it was a very long day/night for me I was exstatic to have yet another happy client!

Marenco / Goldberg Wedding

It was a very rainy and cloudy Sunday afternoon on February 17, 2008 when Ruby and Ken tied the knot! The ceremony and reception took place at the beautiful Deering Estates. Everything was to take place outside when the downpour began! At this point it was not very pretty. The staff provided by Mena catering was extremely efficient and willing to help in every which way they could. Jennifer (assistant event coordinator from the DE) and Aldo (security supervisor) were extremely helpful and pleasant and made every effort in assisting us to their fullest capacity.

Once we agreed that the ceremony was to take place inside the Richmond Building and the ketubah was signed, Rabbi Kanter and Father Frank took their positions and the ceremony music began. Ruby looked stunning and was escorted down the aisle by her father. The ceremony was brief but beautiful. Immediately after, the guests were treated with hordeouvres in the (still wet) courtyard. After all the formal portraits were taken by Stacey Brandon, the couple and their families joined the cocktail hour. The formal living room of the estate was transformed into the dining room and although it was a bit tight (15 tables) the room was glowing with flowing orchids and beautiful curly willow provided by Sandra from Flowers by Sandra.

Upon entering the room, the guests took their seats and enjoyed the first course followed by the main entree which consisted of a dual plate of succulent Beef Tenderloin with fresh Sea Bass. The traditional and funny speeches were done by the Maid of Honor, Carolina (Ruby's sister), the Best Man, Ben (a very nervous and good friend of Ken..lol.. great job Ben! ) and both sets of parents. Immediately after the main course was done and the delicious cake (filled with the traditional dulce de leche filling) was served, we did away with some tables (in order to create a larger dance floor) and allowed the MAGNIFICENT band, Libido, to do what they do best! They were amazing and were constantly receiving raves from the guests.

Libido did a great job in performing the Horrah (traditional Jewish dance) and made sure to invite all the guests in joining the bride and groom on the dance floor. The rest is history. They were non stop for the rest of the evening. Although the afternoon was every brides nightmare (horrible weather) the evening turned out spectacular and Ruby and Ken could not be any happier! Thanks to Alan from Artistry Wedding Films, Ruby and Ken will be able to relive this evening for many years to come!

A special note to Ruby and Ken......... thank you for allowing me to be a part of your special day. It was an honor to participate on such a joyous ocassion!

Richards / Goldrich Wedding

On Saturday Feb 16, 2008, Alexa and Jeff tied the knot! All festivitites took place at the historic Douglas Entrance in Coral Gables, Florida. Alexa looked even more beautiful than what she already is and Jeff looked very handsome and extremely happy at all times! The ceremony was performed by the magnificent Michael Calderin in the downstairs area in front of the fountain.
The cocktail also took place outside and the guests were surprised by Mariachis. Once it was time to enter the dining room, the guests were escorted up the grand staircase. Their reaction was extremely rewarding! They were awed to see the room look so spectacular! Ubi Marrero provided the lighting (both inside and outside) and he did a magnficent job! The dining room was glowing with amber lighting. The centerpieces looked amazing thanks to Jorge Nevot and the tables looked spectacular thanks to AB Cover Designers and Alexa's gold chargers, personally handmade menus and table numbers!

Once the guests were seated, they were presented with a beautiful display of mixed greens. Following the salad, came the main entree. Mena catering did a fabulous job in getting the food out on time and most importantly... hot! Both sets of parents made a beautiful toast to the bride and groom and along with Jeff and Alexa, made sure to thank all of the guests that traveled to join them on that specal night. The father /daughter dance was very touching as was the mother / son dance was. Aside from the beautiful and yummy Ana Paz cake, there was a special chocolate table. These fine chocolates came from South America (Alexa's mom is from South America) and were displayed in beautiful silver trays. Needless to say they did not last long on the beautifully arranged table! After all the food was over and done with the real party began. DJ Ubi did a FABULOUS job with the music selection and best of all, Alexa hired a percussionist to join Ubi. He also did a fabulous job. They both did a magnificent job in keeing the dance floor alive until 1:00am.

Overall, this evening turned out beautiful and I am sure it will live in both Alexa and Jeff's memories as well as each and every one of their guests for a very long time.

I thank Alexa for allowing me to work with her on such a special day in her life!