Planning a Michigan Wedding with Pearls Events

Real Wedding 2011 | Nicole & Ryan

2012-03-28T17:00:00.003-04:00

Couple | Nicole & Ryan, 11.19.11

Ceremony | Fountain Street Church

Officiant | Grand Rapids' Mayor George Heartwell

Reception | Amway Grand Plaza, Imperial Ballroom

Photographer | Studio 6.23

Videographer | Coastline Studios

Florist | Posh Petals

Cocktail Hour Band | Mark Kahny

Reception Band | Cancel Monday

Hair | Salon Re:

Makeup | Julie Strating

Rehearsal Dinner | Mangiamo!

Pearls Events Service | Event Coordination

Late last Fall, we had the privilege of working with Nicole & Ryan on their lovely Grand Rapids wedding. Our team arrived at the Amway Grand Plaza to drop off breakfast from Wealthy Street Bakery to the ladies before getting to work in the Pantlind Ballroom installing linens & paper products.

The couple decided to do a first look right in the Pantlind lobby with their photographers Ben & Mindy of Studio 6.23. After couple photos, the entire wedding party hit up a few of our favorite local Grand Rapids spots to do wedding party photos. And when 3pm rolled around, guests began arriving at one of the most gorgeous sanctuaries in Grand Rapids at Fountain Street Church. It was a beautiful ceremony, with the city of Grand Rapids' mayor presiding (who happens to be a childhood friend of the bride). You can hear some of his ceremony in the video above, from Coastline Studios.

After the ceremony, the guests made their way (most on foot!) to the Pantlind Ballroom inside the Amway Grand Plaza where they joined cocktail hour in the mezzanine. While guests enjoyed cocktails and hors d’œuvres, the jazz band played, which was special to the couple as the bride's father joined in before dinner! The dinner bell rang, and guests made their way downstairs into the dining room. The couple cut their cake before the bride's father welcomed everyone and dinner was served.

Cancel Monday kept the dance floor packed until the very end of the night - 1:30am! - and guests enjoyed the photobooth and very special surprise to the groom - Irish dancing! It was a very, very fun evening and one that I know guests will be talking about each time November 19th rolls around.

Nicole & Ryan - thank you both so much for working with Pearls Events. I absolutely loved getting to know you throughout the process. Your families were so kind & fun to work with as well! We wish you nothing but the best in years to come.

[all images copyright Studio 6.23 and video copyright Coastline Studios]

Great Find | Monica's Gourmet Cookies

2012-02-16T16:45:00.001-05:00

Oh my goodness, I have a new favorite (and local!) treat. Yesterday while doing my grocery shopping at my favorite market, I noticed a new display in the bakery where I usually pick up fresh bread for dinner. A display of delicious cookies in big glass containers caught my eye!

The cookies, I quickly learned, were Monica's Gourmet Cookies, based out of Grand Rapids. I picked up two signature chocolate chip, one iced almond and an iced lemon. I enjoyed one of the chocolate chip cookies yesterday as a pre-dinner treat, and then held out as long as I could after dinner to devour the iced lemon. And as of 5pm today, the other two are gone. My willpower is quite terrible these days!

I've seen photos of cookies displayed at weddings before, however, I'm not sure I've ever blogged about them because, quite frankly, I don't consider myself a cookie lover. I'm normally a traditional wedding cake lover, but these cookies have me changing my mind. Actually, I'd love to see a display of these in addition to a wedding cake!

If you're planning a West Michigan wedding and are looking for delicious, homemade cookies to serve your guests - either displayed in a dessert buffet, or possibly as favors - I suggest you pick up some of Monica's Gourmet Cookies at Horrocks where you can pick and choose which flavors you want to try. They are $1.65 each, and well worth it, especially for those, like me, who don't bake at all.

And just in case you're considering adding cookies to your reception, here are two cute set ups...

[image one: The Knot; image two: Martha Stewart Weddings]

Real Wedding 2010 | Sarah & Trevor

2012-02-12T16:45:00.003-05:00

Couple | Sarah & Trevor, 12.31.10

Ceremony | Third Christian Reformed Church

Reception | Kalamazoo Country Club
Photographer + Photobooth | Holly Henderson Photography

Videography | Inspiration Video
DJ & Jazz Band | Music Host Entertainment

Flowers | Cindy Mein

Linens | La Tavola via Pearls Events

Chair Rental | Chiavari Chairs Weddings

Pearls Events Service | Event Planning, Design & Coordination

I'm embarrassed this wedding was over a year ago and I'm just sharing it now. But, as they say - better late than never - and this is one I couldn't be more excited to share!

To say the least, I love this couple. As a matter of fact, I ran into them today at Target, and realized I needed to sit down and put their images together because this was an insanely beautiful wedding celebration.

I cannot say enough kind words about their family and I loved planning this wedding with Sarah, and her mom, Debbie. Sarah is the sister of one of my 2008 brides, Kristina. After Kristina's wedding, I received the sweetest thank you note from Debbie, with a post script saying she would call me when it was time for the next daughter's wedding.

So when Debbie's email about Sarah's wedding arrived, I couldn't stop smiling for a week.

And that began our year-long journey of planning an elegant, black-ivory-gold-plum, New Year's Eve wedding together. If you are going to get married on any holiday, I would highly advise considering New Year's Eve. All of your friends & family in one spot to ring in the new year? A perfect way to celebrate your new marriage! And every single guest will most likely stay until midnight!

Sarah decided on her gorgeous gown with beautiful black belt, which set the tone for the overall event design. We landed on luxurious black crinkle taffeta linens and ivory ribbon taffeta on the guest, family & head tables after looking at various samples. They both looked stunning with gold chargers, black satin napkins folded like a bow tie accented with the gold, beaded napkin ring, It was perfect and one of my favorite designs to date.

Besides the gorgeous set up at Kalamazoo Country Club, the couple also had a memorable ceremony at the church Sarah grew up in, Third Christian Reformed Church in Kalamazoo. My favorite part was the candlelit portion near the end. Each guest lit a candle they held, very much like a Christmas eve service. The church was aglow and absolutely breathtaking!

After dinner, guests were invited to the dance floor and the photobooth before cake & coffee was served. The couple opted for individual cakes for each guests, which was perfect! And because Kalamazoo Country Club recently added an outdoor fireplace, we put together a hot cocoa bar and a smores station outside. Both were huge hits because of the mild temperatures we had that year.

And how did we ring in 2011, you ask? Mary, Stephanie & I passed out festive hats & kazoos around 11:57 and at midnight, hundreds of white balloons dropped onto the dance floor for quite the celebration.

It was an unforgettable evening for the Pearls Events team and one I will soon not forget. And I am sure their guests will remember the night for years to come, especially on New Year's Eve each year when they are at another party, most likely thinking "Gosh, do you remember Sarah & Trevor's wedding? That was one fun New Year's Eve!"

Sarah & Trevor - Thank you so, so much for working with me. It was honestly an amazing day from start to finish, and one I will not soon forget. I loved watching your day unfold and all of your guests have an amazing time. Best wishes to you both in the year ahead!

Real Event | GRunveiled 2012 Recap

2012-02-07T22:00:00.000-05:00

The third annual GRunveiled was a month ago already, and I wanted to share all of the unique spaces that made up the show. Just like both previous years, the spaces this year were unique and gorgeous! I love this Grand Rapids bridal show like no other and it works because of the amazing venue. If you were to put these spaces into any normal convention center, they wouldn't be nearly as awesome. A HUGE THANK YOU to St. Cecilia Music Center for hosting us for the third year in a row. We couldn't put on a show like this without them!

You've already seen the Pearls Events space I pulled together, but here are the rest of the spaces in their full glory! For even more photos, check out the official Facebook album here.

Real Wedding 2011 | Nadene & Trevor

2012-02-01T22:30:00.001-05:00

Couple | Nadene & Trevor, 7.15.11
Ceremony | Grand Haven City Park

Reception | Harbourfront Grand Hall
Photographer + Photobooth | Studio 6.23

Videography | Coastline Studios
Cake | Sweet Cakes Design

Florist | Gumina's Flowers
Band | Josh & the Empty Pockets
Pearls Events Service | Event Coordination

After chatting with Nadene on the phone during our initial consultation, I knew we'd get along swimmingly. Nadene is an event planner in Key West, having planned hundreds of events over the years, and now she was planning her own big day with Trevor.

She wanted my team there to hand the reigns over and not end up walking down the aisle with her planning binder (which her staff back in Key West told her she might do - occupational hazard, I suppose!)

She went down the aisle without a binder, I promise you that.

It was a gorgeous day in July. HOT, but gorgeous! The weather was to be expected, but I guarantee their guests were thankful for all the shade in the park during their outdoor ceremony. After the marriage was official, guests showered the couple & wedding party with rose petals during the exit & headed on over to the Harbourfront Grand Hall to get the party started.

A fabulous station-style meal began after cocktail & toasts, and there was so.much.delicious.food. Seriously, I cannot believe how many amazing options there were - Nadene & Trevor knew their guests would love variety, and they got it!

Their photographers, Studio 6.23, set up a photobooth after the party was going, and wow - did their guests have fun in that! I cannot even imagine the outtakes. Seriously fun guests at this one! Almost every guest was in from out of town, so the party went until Josh & the Empty Pockets were complete out of songs, and I have a sneaky feeling there was definitely an after party somewhere near.

Nadene & Trevor - thank you both so much for trusting Pearls Events with your big day! All of your hard work paid off - it was an amazing weekend full of fun, family & vows, and I was honored to be a small part of it. Wishing you two nothing but the best!

Real Wedding 2011 | Lis & Troy

2012-01-31T22:45:00.002-05:00

Couple | Lis & Troy, 12.9.12

Ceremony & Reception & Florist | Goei Center & Eastern Floral
Photographer + Photobooth | Jill DeVries
Catering & Beverages | Martha's Vineyards
Doughnuts | Robinette's

Band | Pleasuretown

Pearls Events Service | Event Coordination & Set Up

Lis & Troy's love for one another is infectious. Thinking about their day almost two months ago makes me smile. And it helps we are having coffee this week to have a wedding recap catch up date.

Lis & I are no strangers. She happens to be the sister of one of my 2008 clients, Kathryn. Also, Lis used to play in a quartet, which many of my clients in 2008 & 2009 used. Right after Eames was born, she called to chat about her upcoming wedding. It was the first phone call from a potential client that I was so excited about. See, I was beginning to think I wanted to close up shop, but Lis' call reminded me why I LOVE my job, and am so thankful that I get to work with super-sweet people. Add Troy, and it was a wedding planner's dream couple.

I'm gushing. Sorry. Moving right along...

Lis & Troy did one of my absolutely favorite things on the day of their wedding - they greeted their own guests as they arrived at the ceremony. Yep - no hiding for this bride; she was out hugging guests, as was Troy, as everyone made their way into the Goei Center for the ceremony.

With many different people - friends and family - taking part in their ceremony, I must admit it was one of my favorites to date. Non-traditional and completely them. Full of fantastic readings and reflections. After the marriage was official, guests made their way into the dining room, after grabbing their escort cards and checking out the raw space that the Goei Center is.

I had spent the morning & afternoon setting up the space, and I admit it looked fabulous! We used gray linens, tons of vintage books collected by the bride & groom, red pears, fresh white flowers, and tons of candles to make the room absolutely glow.

The family-style dinner from Martha's Vineyards was delicious. And my favorite was the Shepherd's Pie, a nod to their love for England! The doughnuts were adorably displayed for dessert, and their band, in which the groom is a member of, rocked all. night. long with the highlight of the evening being the bride & groom playing Come on Eileen together. It was a night their guests will soon not forget, and neither will Stephanie & I! We had a blast!

Lis & Troy - thank YOU so much for calling me and reminding me why I love my job. I wish you nothing but the best in years to come and look forward to following along on your journey.

**this is a very small sample of images from Jill DeVries. To see even more photos of their day, please check out Jill's post here**

Hiring 2012 Interns

2012-01-29T16:40:00.000-05:00

Each year, Pearls Events offers internships to junior & senior level students. The internship is an opportunity to work alongside our team and learn the ins & outs of a wedding planner's job from our eyes. I am excited to start the interview process for our 2012 interns.

APPLY If you’re interested in joining the Pearls Events team for our 2012 season, please email your cover letter and resume in .pdf format to [pearls.events@gmail.com] Phone calls will not be accepted, nor will communication to any other of our email addresses.

**We will be accepting applications through February 29th, 2012 and will be conducting interviews throughout March.**

Responsibilities
• working in the office on a weekly basis to help on all on going projects
• confirming vendors via phone, assisting at ceremony rehearsal on-site
• setting up & facilitating both ceremony & reception on wedding day

Experience & Knowledge
• junior or senior in a related field
• strong verbal communication skills
• strong leadership skills
• excellent organizational skills

Personal Characteristics
• flexible & proactive
• innovative thinker & calm demeanor
• team player & energetic
• detail oriented & works well under pressure

Compensation: This is a part time, unpaid internship
Travel Required: Yes, we travel throughout Michigan
Hours: Office hours will be set, weekend hours will vary by event

Real Event | GRunveiled 2012

2012-01-18T19:35:00.004-05:00

GRunveiled 2012 has come and gone. Joy'l & I planned the third annual bridal show for Saturday, January 7, and we had an amazing turnout! It was a fabulous afternoon full of fun, food & fantastic spaces created by very creative event professionals. There are all sorts of photos on the GRunveiled Facebook page, and I may try to blog some, but for now, enjoy the Pearls Events space below.

This year, I incorporated food & drinks into my space. What a fabulous idea - almost everyone stopped for a cup of cocoa & a mini cupcake.

As always, Abbey from 6.25 Paper Studio (formerly Syd Design) did all of the graphic design, based on my current obsession with chevron, and my love for Valentine's Day. I then placed an order with Swirled Cupcakes for ten dozen mini cupcakes, which are, by far, the best cupcakes I've ever tasted. Seriously. Their cookie dough cupcake? Um, ah-mazing! I will be placing an order soon for a few birthdays we have coming up. Yum.

And then I pulled out all the details to make it come together. Samovar? Check (seriously, that thing to heat up water is technically a samovar.) Candles to create some light? Check. Striped straws? Check. Trays/pedestals/cake stands? Check. Pink cups? Check. Ten canisters of Land 'o Lakes hot cocoa & 12 cans of whipped cream? Check. Oh yeah, and all the glorious toppings? CHECK!

And the best part? ONE lovely assistant to help me stir it all up and serve it fresh? CHECK! I had the pleasure of hanging out with former client, Jill - you may remember her very own chevron themed 30th birthday party at the GRAM, all afternoon.

It was a great day. I'm so happy with how everything turned out, and also thrilled we had a lot of fun people come visit us.

Cheers to another wonderful GRunveiled!

Pearls Events Press | Inspired Dining

2011-11-01T15:00:00.001-04:00

I've been excited to share our photoshoot we did for the current issue of InFrame Bride magazine with the amazing team of wedding professionals! We had the pleasure of working with Lisa Kae Photography, A Piece o' Cake, Mulick Floral, 6.25 Paper Studio, Iced Events & Events by I. Candy this year, and I couldn't be more proud of all the hard work!

If you've been reading for a while, you'll notice that this year's shoot was completely different from last year's shoot - I like to switch things up! Because these are just tiny photos, I plan on sharing more images from Lisa Kae Photography soon - stay tuned!

Real Event | Jill's Surprise Party, Part II

2011-09-29T11:30:00.002-04:00

[ALL PHOTOS COPYRIGHT OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE PHOTOGRAPHY]

Guest of Honor | Jill

Venue | Grand Rapids Art Museum

Event Photographer | Obsessive Compulsive Photography

Pearls Events Photographer | Mindy Leigh

Catering | Gilmore Collection

Bar Service | Applause Banquets

Cake | MiraBella Confections

Florist | Posh Petals

Stationery | 6.25 Paper Studio

Linens | Pearls Events

Entertainment | Brant Satala

Pearls Events Service | Event Design, Planning, Coordination & Set Up

Jill's birthday party details were some of my favorite because I love clean lines & bold colors. If you've been in my office, you would think I picked the color palette myself, when in fact, the inspiration came directly from Jill's blog! Everything we created was so simple on its own, but styled together, it was perfect for Jill.

Although I had Mindy Leigh come take photos on behalf of Pearls Events before the party started, Jill's brother-in-law, Brian Fett, of Obsessive Compulsive Photography, was the official event photographer. He captured the evening as it unfolded, and I LOVE the great shots he captured!

I cannot thank Mindy & Brian enough for capturing this evening for Jill. I know photos are very important to her, so Eric & I wanted to make sure every little detail was remembered for years to come.

Real Event 2011 | Jill's Surprise Party, Part I

2011-09-25T14:00:00.010-04:00

[ALL PHOTOS COPYRIGHT MINDY LEIGH]

Guest of Honor | Jill

Venue | Grand Rapids Art Museum

Event Photographer | Obsessive Compulsive Photography

Pearls Events Photographer | Mindy Leigh

Catering | Gilmore Collection

Bar Service | Applause Banquets

Cake | MiraBella Confections

Florist | Posh Petals

Stationery | 6.25 Paper Studio

Linens | Pearls Events

Entertainment | Brant Satala

Pearls Events Service | Event Design, Planning, Coordination & Set Up

Eric & I had coffee downtown to discuss the party he wanted to plan just before Eames was born. We've been working together on the super-secret-surprise party at the GRAM for his wife, Jill, ever since. When she walked into her party last night, I was thrilled to unveil the big surprise, and meet her - it's been a long time coming!

Jill has been following the Pearls Events blog for years. We've been in touch via blogging/Facebook/Twitter on various occasions, but our paths have never crossed until last night when Eric introduced us and we hugged like old friends.

Our team arrived to start setting up in the afternoon, and by 3pm I was receiving texts about how excited & nervous Eric was. He compared it to the day he proposed to Jill and how the day was going SO slowly, because he just wanted to get the party started. I wanted everything to be perfect when they walked into the Member's Lounge of the GRAM. And it was. I could not have been happier with how everything came together.

Guests began arriving for the big surprise, and half an hour later, the guest of honor walked off the elevator to a round of Happy Birthday. Jill's brother-in-law, Brian, of Obsessive Compulsive Photography was on hand the entire evening to capture the night, and I cannot wait to see Jill's reaction as she stepped off the elevator! I plan on adding a follow up post with those images as they are available from Brian.

Guests enjoyed cocktails and appetizers on the veranda, before dinner overlooking Rosa Parks Circle in the glassed-in boardroom at the GRAM. After dinner and another round of Happy Birthday with the adorable chevron cake, guests made their way back to the veranda for cake & ice cream sundaes while Brant Satala provided music well into the night.

With ArtPrize taking over downtown Grand Rapids, the city was ALIVE with art and, what seemed like, the entire community. What an AMAZING night to be in the heart of our beautiful city.

Jill - I wish you another amazing 30 years with your family & friends. Everyone who surrounded you last night was an absolute joy. I look forward to running into you more often!

Eric - I cannot express how much fun it has been working alongside of you to make sure this day was perfect. Thank you for trusting my vision and all my ideas. You were the ideal client and one I will miss.

Real Wedding 2011 | Megan & Jacob

2011-09-14T16:00:00.002-04:00

[ALL PHOTOS COPYRIGHT SIMPLY JESSIE PHOTOGRAPHY]

Couple | Megan & Jacob, 9-4-11

Ceremony & Reception | Blue Dress Barn

Photographer | Simply Jessie Photography

Officiant | Earthbound Weddings

Catering | Classic Catering

Cake & Pies | Bit of Swiss

Florist | DIY from Horrock's

Photobooth | The Traveling Photobooth

Deejay | DJ by TJ

Pearls Events Service | Event Coordination & Set Up

I knew Megan & Jacob were designers, but when Megan sat in my office and shared their letterpress invitations her guests received, I about died....Red! Graphic! PURE AWESOME! So, after hearing about her big day with Jacob, and listening to all of the details they designed together, I knew our team was in for a treat.

Lauryn, Natalie & I arrived at the Blue Dress Barn to begin setting up the beautifully restored barn around noon on Sunday. Megan, her sister Kristen, Jacob and Megan's parents were there helping unload all of the gorgeous DIY details. It was a delight to work directly with Megan to make sure everything was exactly how she envisioned it as we set up.

Megan & Jacob did a First Look with their fabulous photographers, Jessie & Eric Stevens from Simply Jessie Photography. When couples want to join their guests at cocktail hour, plus get a ton of great photos, it makes a lot of sense to do this. And amazing photos were taken - check out the posts from Simply Jessie Photography if you're interested in all the shots - PART ONE & PART TWO.

Guests began arriving and one of my favorite parts of the day was that cocktail hour was FIRST! Guests grabbed a drink from the bar, and munched on glorious appetizers from Classic Catering before the ceremony - which was as awesome way to begin the celebration and I'd highly recommend it.

The short & sweet wedding ceremony took place on the side of the barn, under the arbor while everyone cheered on the couple. Guests made their way inside for a second cocktail hour, and Megan & Jacob had time to greet their guests casually. Dinner was served family style by Classic Catering before the toasts and cake cutting. The couple began the party portion of the evening with a spin around the dance floor together.

Since the couple LOVES photobooths, they had The Traveling Photobooth on hand the entire evening for guests to enjoy. Everyone also enjoyed s'mores over the bonfire, which was a great idea for a barn wedding!

Megan & Jacob - Thank you SO much for allowing Pearls Events to be a part of your day. Your style is impeccable, your love is contagious and we were thrilled to celebrate with you! Wishing you nothing but years & years of happiness!

Real Wedding 2011 | Sarah & Mike

2011-09-06T01:00:00.003-04:00

[ALL PHOTOGRAPHY COPYRIGHT BRYAN + MAE]

Couple | Sarah & Mike, 8.17.11

Makeup & Hair | Hanna Wagner

Bride's Gown & Groom's Suit | J. Crew

Ceremony & Reception | Ventura Pines Cottage

Rentals - tent, chairs, linens | A-1 Rent All

Florist | DIY from Hamilton Dahlia Farm

Catering | Marie Catrib's

Pies | Crane's Pie Pantry

Band | Matt Stedman Band

Photography | Bryan + Mae

Pearls Events Service | Event Coordination & Set Up

Sarah & Mike are amazing. Nice. Super fun. In love. Thoughtful. From awesome families. I could go on and on... They were a fabulous couple to work with - from beginning 'til the end! I have to say, I'd been looking forward to their wedding ever since our first phone call. They wanted an intimate beach wedding with no frills - my ideal setting! And after seeing everything come together - this is exactly the wedding I'd have if I got to do it all over again.

Mike vacationed on the shores of Lake Michigan as a child, and shared his love for the area with Sarah while they were dating. After a (very!) long engagement, they invited their families & closest friends to witness their nuptials at my favorite cottage north of Holland, Ventura Pines Cottage.

It was a warm Wednesday afternoon at the beach, but their 45 guests from California didn't seem to mind! After their beach side vows were spoken, the couple joined their guests for lakeside cocktails & hors d'œuvres before making their way to the tent on the bluff for a delicious family-style meal from Marie Catrib's. After dinner, Sarah & Mike cut into the most amazing pies from Crane's and then everyone danced the night away to the sounds of Chicago's Matt Stedman Band. It was truly a wonderful evening, which ended with a bonfire overlooking Lake Michigan.

Above are a ton of detail shots from the fabulous duo of Bryan + Mae. To see even more, check out their full post!

Sarah & Mike - it was a pleasure getting to know you and I wish you a lifetime of happiness & fun! Libby, Stephanie & I had an amazing time working with you two. Best wishes!!!!

Pearls Events Press | Brides Michigan 2011 Editor's Choice

2011-08-22T12:45:00.001-04:00

I have had the pleasure of working with Brides Michigan editor, Heather Lee, over the past few years. She first contacted me (and I about fell outta my desk chair when she did!) about a venue guide for West Michigan. Over the past three years, I've contributed to many articles, and each one has been helpful for Michigan brides.

Last week, I received their very first Editor's Choice Award from Brides. I was shocked to receive this recognition, as there are so many awesome Michigan wedding professionals. I love how Brides explains they picked "amazing, forward-thinking, art-creating, call-returning, trend-making wedding vendors who inspire and delight us every time we craft an issue of our magazine"

Thank you, Brides, for being one of Pearls Events' cheerleaders!

And a big congratulations to the other fantastic Michigan professionals they have recognized and we've had the pleasure of working with over the past five wedding seasons...

Real Wedding 2011 | Sara & Bud

2011-08-01T21:00:00.007-04:00

Where do I even begin with Sara & Bud? I loved working with them and both of their families. It was a wedding I was looking forward to for over a year and when it all came together, it was absolutely worth the wait!

After a year of talking vendors, timelines, linens, flowers, set up options, candle placement, menus, napkin folds... we were beyond excited for Sara & Bud to tie the knot! And finally, on Friday, July 22nd, Libby, Lauryn & I arrived at Bud's parent's home in Battle Creek for their ceremony rehearsal. It was a typical July evening in Michigan - warm, sunny & beautiful on Lake Goguac.

Saturday morning we woke up to rain, but by lunch time it cleared & our rain plan was put on the back burner. Photos began at Sara's parent's home with the couple, then the wedding party, followed by immediate family before the ceremony began.

An hour before guests started arriving, Sara & Bud made the ultimate decision to have the ceremony as planned - in Bud's parent's yard. Unfortunately, the skies opened up and began pouring right before Sara & her father walked down the aisle, so guests retreated to the house. We did the processional again and Sara & her father made it down this time, but again, the rain came down. Their bridal party held umbrellas over their heads while the couple quickly said their vows in front of their guests.

As luck would have it, after the shortened ceremony the skies cleared again and cocktail hour on the shores of Lake Goguac went as planned. Guests made the short walk to the country club for dinner & dancing after an hour of mingling. The food was fantastic, and the deejay kept the dance floor packed all night long. Libby, Lauryn & I were THRILLED to be a part of this beautiful day!

Above is just a tiny part of the photo preview from Harrison Studio. To see even more wonderful images, check out their post.

Sara & Bud - it was an honor working with the two of you. Your families & wedding party were nothing short of awesome, and we truly were thankful to be a small part of your big day! Libby, Lauryn & I wish you nothing but the best for YEARS to come!

2011 Pearls Events Team

2011-06-16T14:00:00.001-04:00

If you've been following this blog for over a year, you may recognize the faces above...this is our core team at Pearls Events - from left to right you have me (Aletha), Kate, Mary & Amy. We are getting geared up for the 2011 season, and just had new head shots taken by Mindy Leigh at our kickoff meeting last week.

Who you may not recognize are our 2011 interns! I am thrilled to introduce the 2011 interns, who will serve as event assistants throughout the season. They are, from left to right - Jessica, Lauryn, Libby & Stephanie - all wonderful woman from various West Michigan colleges learning to ins & outs of event planning and running a small business.

We are as busy as ever in the office and looking forward to sharing our events with you!

[all images copyright Mindy Leigh]

Aletha's Ramblings | Summer Update

2011-06-02T09:15:00.000-04:00

Summer is in full swing in the Pearls Events office, and we are getting ready for our first event next weekend. We are so excited to see a graduation party come together with amazing La Tavola linens, floral centerpieces from Mulick Floral, perfect rental items from Events by I. Candy, and a few stationery items from Syd Design.

Our 2011 interns have been hired, we have our official head shot photo session scheduled with Mindy Leigh Photography, and final appointments with our clients have begun. It's crazy how another season has come and gone, and we're getting ready to start our FIFTH wedding season with our stellar clients.

My personal life is settling down with Eames, and I almost feel 100% back to normal, but now with a baby in my life. The cutest baby in the entire world, if I do say so myself, although I realize I have to say that about my own children.

I will be introducing you to all of our interns in the coming weeks, and the bonus is that one of our 2011 interns, Stephanie, is currently plotting her debut to this blog. Stay tuned over the next few weeks for her updates.

Happy Spring from Pearls Events

2011-04-09T17:00:00.001-04:00

It's one of those sunny weekends in West Michigan that reminds us all that warmer temperatures are near. Our grass is getting greener, the birds are chirping, and our spring flowers are making their way out of the ground - I cannot wait for the tulips to bloom!

And with that, wedding season is right around the corner!

We have an amazing event line up for our 2011 season, and I'm dying to jump back into work in May, however I'm currently spending time at home with our baby boy, Eames. I couldn't be enjoying this new venture in my life any more. With Kate holding down the fort in the office, I am soaking up every smile, coo and well, diaper change; it's an experience like no other, and I'm thankful to be enjoying it with Greg.

Above is a gorgeous shot of the flowers my friend, Natalie who happens to be a wonderful florist, sent me while I was in the hospital. Every single nurse (and guest, for that matter!) walked into the room and told me how gorgeous they were - and I agree, simply stunning! Thanks again, Natalie!

I hope you all are enjoying this wonderful weather! I look forward to getting back to regularly scheduled blogging soon.

(photo copyright Mindy Leigh Photography)

My Little Personal Project

2011-04-05T23:00:00.001-04:00

It's no secret around the Pearls Events office that I've been patiently waiting for Baby VanderMaas to arrive since July! And after being eleven days overdue and being induced last Monday, Greg & I welcome Eames* Gregory VanderMaas into our family on Tuesday, March 29th, at 7:02pm. He weighed 9lbs, 8oz and was 21.5" long.

Phew - one big baby, I know!

We are totally in love with Eames - I can hardly believe he's all ours. Greg and I are still settling into life with a baby, and at this point, my associate Kate is running the show at the office. I've been sneaking in emails to current clients and it's a hard habit to break!

And just in case you didn't see these on Twitter, here's a peek of Eames at the hospital. To see all the images, check out our awesome photographer's post here.

(*Eames rhymes with seams & teams)

Spring Inspiration

2011-03-16T09:30:00.000-04:00

Every March, I get an itching for SPRING - green grass, tulips popping up, no more snow - and this March is no different. I've used these tulip images over the past three years on this blog more than once, and honestly each time I do, I want to run to my favorite Grand Rapids florist and buy a few dozen just to have around the house.

I currently made the switch from a (lame) PC to a shiny, new iMac, and am patiently waiting for my photo software to arrive, hence the lack of posts. I am also awaiting the arrival of our first child (due in two days, although I have a feeling Baby VanderMaas will be late!), so things have been a bit hectic around here.

Happy Spring!

GRunveiled 2011 | Second Floor Recap

2011-03-02T08:00:00.002-05:00

You most likely caught the first floor recap yesterday, and today I'm sharing the vendors who exhibited on the second floor. You can see why our wedding show, GRunveiled, really is different from other shows in Grand Rapids, can't you?

We invite the most interesting vendors to participate, to bring our brides-to-be unique vendors they will not find elsewhere. Many of the wedding professionals have never done another show, and we strongly encourage them to think outside of the wedding show "box" and create a space that will inspire brides. I honestly think this year's spaces were ah-mazing and I'm so proud of this group of pros.

Thank you again to Nicole Haley Photography for capturing our show, and a huge thank you to everyone who made it down to St. Cecilia's last week to check everyone out. We had an amazing turnout and couldn't have done it without everyone who worked hard!

[photos copyright Nicole Haley Photography]

GRunveiled 2011 | First Floor Recap

2011-03-01T12:15:00.001-05:00

GRunveiled 2011 was a complete success in my book, and I cannot thank ALL of the vendors who participated this year enough for their amazing effort & all of their time they put into their unique spaces.

Thank you to each and every attendee who made it out to the show - and a special thanks to all the Pearls Events brides, grooms & mothers-of-the-brides who came downtown to support GRunveiled & Pearls Events! It was great seeing you all and chatting. This show got me more excited for the 2011 wedding season, which is quickly approaching.

This is a look at the first floor of St. Cecilia Music Center last Thursday night. I will be sharing the images from the second floor in the coming days!

[all photos copyright Nicole Haley Photography]

GRunveiled 2011 Ticket Winners

2011-02-21T11:00:00.004-05:00

Because I'm am SO excited about the upcoming wedding show, GRunveiled 2011, I've decided to give all of the ladies who entered to win tickets FREE TICKETS! I suppose planning the show has it's perks, and this is one of them.

That's right, every one of you who entered to win will be on the VIP List Thursday evening at St. Cecilia's. Please email me (GRunveiled@gmail.com) with your full name so we can make sure you're admitted with your guest.

I can't wait to see all of you there - make sure to swing by the Pearls Events space on the first floor to say hello - I'd love to meet you.

The list of winners...

Meghan & your sister
Jennifer & your fiance
Sarah & your maid of honor
Tina & your work BFF
Stephani & Amy
Jenn & your mom
Lauren & your mom

The Grand Affair at The Amway Grand Plaza

2011-02-16T16:00:00.001-05:00

It's wedding planning season, and Grand Rapids is full of great options if you're planning a West Michigan wedding. Of course there is GRunveiled, but there is also The Grand Affair, and Pearls Events is happy to be a part of both shows this year!

We have been invited to speak alongside Modern Day Floral at the upcoming Amway Grand Plaza bridal show, The Grand Affair. If you're getting married, and happen to be in the area on Sunday, March 6th, swing by the Amway Grand Plaza hotel for this FREE show. Pull up to valet for complimentary parking, enjoy an afternoon roaming around their gorgeous ballrooms, and shop around for your local wedding vendors. See their complete list of exhibitors here.

The show is from noon to four o'clock in the afternoon, and Kate, Amy & I will be speaking at 1:30 and 2:30. The sessions are already booked, however look for us roaming around to answer any planning & budgeting questions you may have!

We hope to see you there!

Pearls Events Is Hiring Interns

2011-02-15T08:00:00.002-05:00

Each year, Pearls Events offers an internship program to junior & senior level students. The internship is an opportunity to work alongside our professional team and learn the ins and outs of a wedding planner's job from our eyes. Amy, Kate, Mary & I are thrilled to start the interview process for our 2011 interns.

APPLY If you’re interested in joining the Pearls Events team for our 2011 season, please email your cover letter and resume in .pdf format to [pearls.events@gmail.com]

**We will be accepting applications through March 31st and will be conducting interviews throughout April & May.**

Responsibilities
• confirming vendors, assisting at ceremony rehearsal where needed
• set up & facilitate both ceremony & reception on wedding day

Experience & Knowledge
• junior or senior in a related field
• strong verbal communication skills
• strong leadership skills
• excellent organizational skills

Personal Characteristics
• flexible & proactive
• innovative thinker & calm demeanor
• team player & energetic
• detail oriented & works well under pressure

Compensation This is a part time, unpaid internship
Travel Required Yes, we travel throughout Michigan
Hours Will vary by event