Travel Tips

Here are some Travel Tips to help you navigate packing and the airport!

What to bring: passport, travel tickets, cash, credit card, driver’s license, sunscreen, sunglasses, ipod and charger, camera and charger, be sure to clean pictures from your camera so you can take as many as you want. Cell phone and charger, 2 swim suits, 2 beach towels, toiletries, etc. Search online for an extensive packing list!

What to wear- take a good look at what you're wearing! Good shoes are a must! They should be easy to take on and off at security, easy to walk in long airports, and easy to stand in line! Don’t wear jewelry or items on your clothing that will cause the metal detector to stop you! It’s very embarrassing to have metal on your pants or shirt and for them to have you strip down or wand search you several times.

Don't be this guy! If you don't really need it- check it!

Get a lanyard with a good pouch attached! It sounds cheesy but it really saves you time and frustration! I have a lanyard with a blue Velcro pouch that holds my passport, boarding tickets, flight information, health card, and even has a place for my pen. The pen is handy to fill out custom’s forms or write down flight changes. I put the lanyard around my neck from the check in desk until I board the plane. You will need the information for all security points (sometimes several points), tickets at the gate, and sometimes at the plane entrance.

Carry your camera in your carry on luggage. The larger machines for the checked luggage have been known to erase camera memory! Check out the TSAs list of prohibited and acceptable travel items.

Bonus tip: Once you get to your room: Beware of putting your room key near your credit card. The magnetic strip can deactivate your room key!

Travel smart!

Planner Girl:)

Happy Anniversary Davina + Kevin!

Happy Anniversary Davina + Kevin
10.05.07, Historic Bleak House
Photos provided by Waldorf Photographic Art

Davina and Kevin decided to have their first look prior to the ceremony. This is where couples decide to see each other before the ceremony so they can finish photos and get to the reception faster! The first look can take place at the ceremony spot or at another beautiful setting. Sometimes the bride walks straight to the groom as he looks at her. Other times, the bride walks to the groom as his back it turned. Then she taps on his shoulder for him to turn around.

This is a great way to talk to each other before the ceremony and calm nerves. It’s a good opportunity to have a private moment, which you would not get after coming down the aisle for the ceremony. Some brides are still traditional and refuse to let the groom even get a peak before the ceremony! The first look is easy on the photographer, the guests, and the wedding party and couple. But, ultimately it is your decision; don’t let anyone talk you into it unless you want to!

The centerpieces were river rock, moss, gold fish, and greenery. They were gorgeous!

Sparklers have become a popular departure item! Just be sure to spread the aisle wide. Have your coordinator hand them out and show guests where to stand. Your coordinator should give the cue to light up the sparklers when you are ready. This ensures that they are all lit at the same time and do not burn out before you get through the line. Be sure to get the right sparklers. They are the wedding sparklers that last longer. They burn gold! The 20” sparklers are a good length. The 36” sparklers are too long! Regular sparklers will often smoke up the photograph!

A magical night!

Congratulations Davina and Kevin!

Planner Girl:)

Sandals Bahamas

Back from Sandals!I’m back from the Sandals trip! Sandals is the best way to visit the islands. They are safe, clean, and the service is impeccable. You can choose to explore the island with a Sandals recommended tour guide or you can just sit back and relax!

Here are a few reasons why we LOVE Sandals:
LUXURY: From the accommodations to the staff, every aspect makes you feel like royalty!

AFFORDABILITY Prices fit various budget sizes with all inclusive meals and activities. For example, the cost of 7 nights in Hawaii’s Marriott verses 7 nights at Sandals Dunn’s River in Jamaica is the same. The difference is that Sandals includes the meals, activities, and drinks for free!

ROMANCE: Sandals are designed for couples only. It's the most romantic place in the world! They also have resorts for families, singles, and girlfriend get a ways!

FANTASY: Sandals all inclusive resorts allow you to sit back and enjoy your time together, without having to worry about the cost of transportation from the airport, restaurant bills, drinks at the bar, or activities... it's all included! Just relax and enjoy! The views are phenomenal! Where else can you eat 5 star meals and then get up to leave the table without pulling out your wallet.

It's like living for 7 days where money is no object! The food, activities, drinks, fun, and romance are all included.

Sandals has additional services if you want. Like their famous Red Lane Spa. Have a couples massage or have your massage table moved into the ocean under a private hut! The possibilities are endless!

You can also have a romantic dinner for two. These tables are spaced apart on the beach awaiting a sunset private dinner for two!

Many water sport activities are included in the trip: golf, tennis, fitness center, scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking, glass bottom boat, canoes, sailboats, etc. Each resort has different amenities. But, think about how much each of these would be if you paid for them separately!

Sandals also does destination weddings. This is great for the couple that wants to keep it small! Grab a few friends and family and head to the islands for a romantic getaway for everyone. You may want to throw a fabulous party when you return to share with friends and family that were not able to go!

Book through us to receive all of the latest Sandals deals and get our free gift!

Go Sandals,

Planner Girl:)

Sandals Bahamas here we come!

As you may know, Ever After is a representative and major fan of Sandals vacations and honeymoons! It's the most romantic place in the world because it is designed for couples! Everything is included: fabulous meals, luxury suites, activities, etc! I can't say how impressed I am with Sandals! The service, the value, the views- Wow!

Today (~6:45 am), I am off to Sandals Royal Bahamian Resort! This is the fourth time I've been to the Bahamas, but the first time I've been to a Sandal's property there! I can't wait to see the difference. I have been to both Freeport and Nassau, Bahama.

The first two times I went we stayed in hotels on the island. They were a run down and not ideal by most standards. I liked the local markets, the crystal blue waters, the culture... but I was not impressed with the resorts. The third time I visited via cruise- that was fun! We stayed in port overnight and were able to explore a little. We went shopping, visited Atlantis, went scuba diving! It was great-but one day does not give you enough time to relax or explore the island!

I expect this trip to be very different than any before! This one will be filled with relaxing beaches, yummy food, fire dancing, and luxurious rooms!

Go Sandals!

Planner Girl:)

Telethon with Guy Fieri

Last Night's telethon was a success! The telethon was broadcast on all 3 television networks to show that we can unite as a community for the United Way! The telethon was held at the Bijou theatre and hosted by Hallerin Hilton Hill and Guy Fieri of Food Network.


Guy is the host of Diners, Drive ins and Dives. He spoke about the episode where he highlighted Knoxville's own Pizza Palace on Magnolia. Although he did not mention it on air, Guy revealed earlier that day that it's one of his 2 favorite places to get pizza. The other place is in South Chicago!


The Telethon's goal was to unite the community and raise $250,000 for the United Way of Greater Knoxville!


KingBilly performed on stage as the telethon continued. Their style is best described as country, rock, and blue grass!

Guy and Hallerin talked about the United Way Auction that kicked off last night. Ever After is a proud sponsor of United Way. Look at the auction for a bridal shower and rehearsal dinner package from us! You can also bid on signed UT items, books, guitars, etc.


The telethon was just a kick off! We raised over $254,000 to exceed our first goal. Now we are looking to the online auction, spare change drive, and Pilot pumpers events to make up the total that is needed to serve Knoxville's less fortunate!

Get bidding!
Planner Girl:)

United Way Sharing the blessing!

As a bride to be, you are no doubt blessed! The United Way of Greater Knoxville is wonderful organization that helps those less fortunate get back on their feet. The United way helps educate folks, increase their income, and helps them with health care needs. Today launches their big fund raising campaign and Ever After is proud to be involved! Below are just some of the fun events going on!


1) Telethon with Guy Fieri (of Food Network) and Hallerin Hilton Hill
You can call in any time today to donate $10, $20, $50... whatever you can give. The number is 1-877-970-GIVE (4483). Join us tonight at the Bijou Theatre to see Guy in person as the telethon wraps up. All of the local stations will cover the telethon. We've already been on the Noon news this morning to get the word out. Tonight's telethon is from 7:00-8:00 and only $20 to get in! I can't wait to support such a great cause... and meet Guy Fieri- now that's a winner, winner chicken dinner!



2) On line Auction
The United Way is also auctioning off some awesome items on their website. Signed UT items, signed guitars, a 1948 Indian Chief motorcycle, dinner coupons, an Ever After package and more!!!!



3) Spare Change Drive October 12- November 6
Everyone can spare some change right?! It's resting at the bottom of your purse... or couch. It's hiding in your car. Look for local area businesses for the change drive. Elementary school children are also getting involved to collect change. Every little bit helps and you know it adds up!


4) Pilot Pumpers at Pilot Gas Stations, October 19- October 21
Come fill your tank and meet local celebrities as they pump gas for the United Way!



9/11 Tribute
I also wanted to acknowledge the volunteerism of the United Way campaign. On 9/11 over 300 volunteers met on Market Square to remember the victims of 9/11. Then they spread out across Knoxville to pull weeds, paint, help clean up, and other tasks for businesses! What a great show of our volunteer spirit. Below are some pictures of the morning ceremony with DIY's Amy Matthews and Chris Grundy.

Knox County Mayor Mike Ragsdale
Knox County Commissioner Mike Hammond
Scripps Network VP and Pres., John Lansing
DIY's Amy Matthews and Chris Grundy reveal the fund raising goal!
Families of the heroes of 9/11 marched from Market Square to the 9/11 exhibit.


Give back!
Planner Girl:)

Brunch with David Tutera

Recently, I attended an event called Style in the sky! Style in the sky was a combination of a bridal and fashion show which drew some big names! The speakers included Harmony Walton whose client list includes: Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes, Katherine Heigl and Josh Kelley, Will and Jada Smith, and many others. Many TV shows and magazines consider her their go-to person for all that is weddings! She is also the owner of the bridal bar, which serves as a resource to brides. Locally, we have the Bride's Lounge that serves a resource for Knoxville brides!





Prior to the event I was able to attend a brunch with David Tutera. David is the event designer to the stars. Among his celebrity clientele are Star Jones, Jennifer Lopez, Matthew McConaughey, Elton John, Barbara Walters, Tommy Hilfiger, and Susan Lucci. He brought pictures to share with us from Star's wedding! David is also the star of We TV's "My Fair Wedding".



The colors of the brunch were hot pink and orange. The centerpiece was wrapped with banana leaves, bamboo, and tropical flowers! David's key point was to change up the setting every 30 minutes to keep guests entertained.

Ever After has often used this theory in weddings we've planned. For example, at a wedding at Historic Bleak House we moved the guests to a different location. Following dinner in the gardens, we had guests move to the house for the cutting of the cake and dancing on the patio! We've also followed this theory in music. We had a violin stroll for dinner and then the band kicked up the party after the cake was cut! Now that's how to entertain your guests!


Following brunch with David the bridal show started. Brides were able to sit in on seminars from the experts. Local vendors were on hand to showcase their talents and services. Following the bridal show there was a fashion show with Anne Barge! Anne's gowns have been featured in magazines worldwide. She also provide the gown for the Today Show's Win a Wedding!



The show was fabulous as you would expect. However, my pictures were not as swift! Check out her site to see the real deal. Below is a picture of Calandra Terry, Kristie, and Anne Barge.


Style it up!
Planner Girl:)