Wedding Video Preview Racquel & Lynn, Xcaret, Riviera Maya Mexico 9/27/11

Fabulous wedding preview video by San Jose Filmmakers out of McAllen, Texas! These brothers are experts and have such a creative eye. I had the opportunity to use them as the photographer and cinematographer for my client's wedding in Riviera Maya, Mexico. I can't wait to see the final video...if the preview is this WONDERFUL!


Racquel & Lynn - Xcaret, Riviera Maya, Mexico from www.sanjosefilmmakers.com on Vimeo

The Knot Best of Weddings 2011 and Cake Balls...Makes for a Good Day!

Well it's been a pretty exciting day at Percy Sales Events and it's not even noon yet! We got an email a few weeks ago that stated that we were voted as one of the Best Wedding Planners by The Knot for their 2011 Best of Weddings - a yearly thing they do that identifies the best of the best in every region! Today it was official as The Knot revealed publicly their 2011 The Knot Best of Weddings on their website and we were definitely on the list! Next up is the publication which should come out in the next month or so!

I am so honored and happy to have been selected amongst my peers and recognized as one of the best by such an influential publication! I am more than ecstatic! 2011 is going to be a great year for Percy Sales Events and we can't wait to assist our current and future couples in creating their dream weddings!

If you need assistance on any level with your weddings, birthday, or any other type of celebration, Percy Sales Events will be more than happy to work with you! If you mention The Knot upon contracting our services we will give you an additional 10% off our services! Percy Sales Events is available to produce, design, and coordinate weddings worldwide. Ask us about our destination wedding services making it easy and simple to have your wedding abroad or let us design and plan the wedding of your dreams locally! Either way, Percy Sales Events, will make sure that your wedding or other celebration will be one you remember with joy forever!

Look out for our new website soon! We are revamping and updating the look of the Percy Sales Events website.

After we received the news about The Knot, I had a little tasting session in the office to try these new cake balls from a company out of Dallas called Zen Baking Company. The little balls of heaven were pretty amazing but not at all what I was expecting. From the get go, I had in my mind that these little sweet balls were going to be mini circular, ball like, cakes that were iced and decorated...a cake ball. What we got was something more surprising and something that I love! You know you all love to lick the left over batter off the bowls when you are baking right? Well, these "cake" balls are more of the like the uncooked batter, just a little more dense (truffle like consistency)...not sure how they do it actually...but I think they should be renamed as Cake Batter Balls. But at any rate, these cake balls by Zen Baking Company would make nice favors or an addition to your dessert table at your event.

Our favorite cake ball flavors that we tried today were:
Ode to NOLA a pecan praline concoction
Mocha Toffee Crunch
Pastilla de Yummy (a sugar candy sorta bite - for Filipinos it tastes like the pastilla sugar candies)
Choco-choco-choco-late a chocoholics best friend!
Purplelicious is a made from purple yams or Ube and is a throwback to a traditional Filipino dessert, really delicious

The other item we tried and absolutely loved from Zen Baking Company was their Cookie Dough Whoa balls! I absolutely enjoyed these...the grainy raw cookie dough presented in an upscale way and covered in either white chocolate or dark chocolate...what else can you ask for! The Snickerdoodle was pretty awesome and was a hit amongst those tasting them. All in all these were probably our most favorite and people were fighting for the leftovers.

In addition to their core flavors, they also offer seasonal and specialty flavors! I am sure if there is something you are wanting they can probably come up with a cake ball to match it. A bit of warning - these cake balls are not for the faint of heart. These are pretty intense in taste and it definitely gives you a sugar rush. Think truffles only cakier.

They have many options for presentation packaging and they ship their products pretty meticulously. So ordering them for shipping is no problem at all. The samples arrived at my house as beautiful as they packaged them up. These will definitely be a hit and a conversation piece at your next event. For more information please contact Zen Baking Company if you are in the Dallas area you can find cake balls at your local Central Market.

Thank you to Zen Baking Company for sending us samples! We are fans!

Location Love - Canary Hotel, Santa Barbara

Yesterday I took a client to see potential venue spaces in Santa Barbara for a quaint wedding of 75 people. Our last stop was the Canary Hotel, a boutique hotel that is located in the heart of Santa Barbara. After checking out the banquet rooms, the largest capable of seating a party for 160 people, we took the elevator up to the Rooftop Perch, thanks to the staff who let us up. The bride gasped as we exited the elevator to this little haven above Santa Barbara.

She thought she wanted to have a reception near the beach until she saw this place. She was overcome by the mountain and red tile roof views that the Canary Hotel provided...it truly is the quintessential Santa Barbara location. It was like putting on the perfect wedding gown. She immediately thought that this was the space for her and I have to agree, this location would be perfect for this bride. I have been to that perch many times and even planned a wedding there when it was known as Hotel Andalucia. At any rate, I fell in love with the space again.

Everything about the Canary Hotel...the architecture, decor, tile work, outdoor fireplace, views, location, and the hotel staff...may just make this little hotel the perfect location for your wedding. It's a lot more affordable than most people will speculate and it can accommodate a good number of folks. The only negative is...I was not listed as one of their preferred Wedding Planners and Coordinators. Regardless of that little detail, if you are looking for the ultimate location in Santa Barbara to wed, check out the Canary Hotel. You may never want to leave its nest.

To check out their floor plan, capacity charts and catering menus, please visit their Special Events Webpage. The Canary Hotel is located at 31 West Cabrillo, Santa Barbara, CA 93101 or you can reach their Sales and Catering department by contacting them at 805-884-0300.

-Percy

Photos from the Canary Hotel

Wacky Wednesdays: 2010 San Francisco Dream Wedding Giveaway

Here's your chance brides to get married in one of the most romantic cities in the world...the City by the Bay...San Francisco! A collaboration of 30 vendors is making this dream destination possible.

The contest begins on August 4, 2009 at 7:55 a.m. PST, but you can browse the site to see what vendors are going to be included in this truly once in a lifetime experience. The group is giving "one amazing couple a lavish, heartfelt San Francisco wedding, valued at over $60,000. We’re hoping to offer a rehearsal dinner, day after brunch, and honeymoon to Napa as an added bonus, so be sure to check back often for new information," according to their Website.

Additionally according to their Website site, you will "get to know the contestants, as we begin posting their Love Stories online. Stay tuned for the big announcement, when we reveal the lucky winning couple on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2010. And of course, you won’t want to miss the breath-taking wedding, set for May 14, 2010 at one of San Francisco’s most famous landmarks."

Check out the 2010 San Francisco Dream Wedding Giveaway Website...who knows you might just be the one lavishing in this dream wedding.

-Percy

Header from 2010 San Francisco Dream Wedding Giveaway and photo from Lilia Photography

Trend Thursday: Smaller is Sometimes Better

Lately, I have been talking to more couples who are looking to make their wedding and reception more intimate. When I say intimate, I am talking 50 people or less. I am not sure if this is because they have heard from past couples that they wish they had a smaller wedding or if it's part of being more economically aware.

I personally think this trend may be induced by the recession. I think couples are looking at ways to be less extravagant in light of what's happening financially around the globe. Even though they are being conscious, I think they are also looking at providing a better quality event in whole.

Couples are looking at ways to do things better without being over the top with the budget that they have. This includes upgrading the food, picking estates with an intimate space, or upgrading the total guest experience.

At a recent wedding that I planned, the couple only invited 30 of their closest family and friends. They opted to rent out an estate where everyone can stay under one roof for the duration of the 3-day event. They were able to visit with each of their loved ones, share special memories, and really enjoy each other's company. On wedding day, the guests were invited into a transformed ceremony and reception site within the estate. They enjoyed wonderful musicians during the ceremony and reception, feasted on a 7-course meal fit for a king and queen, and enjoyed an evening under the stars. It was truly a memorable event for all. Even though they had an intimate event, they still wanted top notch quality and this was definitely better than quantity.

Therefore, if you are looking for ways to maximize your dollars, you might want to look at cutting down your guest list. Pouring more of your budget into making a fabulous small and intimate celebration is a great way to get what you really want. Quantity does not make a party...attitude does. You can always have a more informal BBQ celebration for all your other friends later on.

So here's a trend for you to contemplate, smaller is sometimes better.

-Percy

Photo from Gloria Plunkett Photography

Fantastic Friday: My Hot Spots for 2009

Last year I did a blog on my Hot Destinations for 2008, so in keeping with tradition, I am releasing My Hot Spots for 2009. With the economy tanking, and resorts and destinations losing out on much-needed tourist dollars...more places and airlines are lowering their prices. These discounts are meant to attract not only tourists and honeymooners but also those individuals who may want to have a destination wedding, where their guests can use the experience as a vacation also...giving them that two for one punch. So now is a good time to consider going out of town.

At any rate, here's my Top 5 Hot Destination List for 2009:

1. Sitges, Spain: Sitges is a wonderful seaside town southwest of Barcelona in the Catalonia region of Spain. This wonderful town is known for its beaches, nightspots, and historical sites. It has become a miniature Ibiza. Sitges touts 17 beaches, four-star hotels, delectable gastronomy, culture, and something for everyone. Easy access by plane or train from several European destinations. A nice car drive from Barcelona.
   
   
2. Mendocino, California: Mendocino is small town in Northern California. Located on the Pacific Ocean, this artist colony is a hidden gem that has become more and more popular in the last several years. The town remains quaint and offers amenities to house your wedding guests in great bed and breakfasts as well as boutique hotels. Additionally, it's a perfect location for a honeymoon, where you just want to leave everything behind. Mendocino is a 4-hour drive north from San Francisco.
   
   
3. Boracay, Philippines: A resort town on the island of Panay in the Philippines, which is located about 200 miles south of Manila. It's an untapped beach resort that has been gaining notoriety and followers. A hidden gem that is a favorite beach getaway for Eastern Europeans as well as those from Asia. Boracay boasts an average temperature of 77 degrees to 90 degrees year round. You will fall in love with its white sand beaches, resort accommodations, and the Filipino hospitality. Direct flights from Manila.
   
   
4. Victoria, Canada: The capital city of British Columbia is found on the southern tip of Vancouver Island and lives in the shadow of its more landlocked famous city, Vancouver. Nevertheless, this romantic waterfront city is the gem of British Columbia. The Mediterranean climate of Victoria makes it the perfect North American location for a honeymoon or destination wedding. Additionally, Victoria and Vancouver Island offers so much, from hiking trails, to 5-star restaurants and resorts, and history invite visitors to discover it. The picture perfect Inner Harbor and Empress Hotel would be the perfect background to any wedding. Boat access from Vancouver.
   
   
5. New York City, New York: Who can deny the "city that never sleeps" as one of the all time best hot spots in the world. I♥NY! NYC has so much to offer not only for destination weddings, but for honeymooners as well. The city has so much to do, so much to see, and it appeals to all age groups. From the serenity of Central Park to the hustle and bustle of Times Square, the city has something to offer everyone. The big plus, it's easy to access from anywhere in the world.

I hope that this helps you in narrowing down your honeymoon or destination wedding locations. The world has so much to offer go and discover it and just maybe, these locations helped you look outside of the travel box.

-Percy

Photos from Wikipedia

Inspiration Mondays: Boracay, Philippines

I was reading a magazine recently and there was this photo of Anne Hathaway at the Oscars wearing a beautiful gown by Armani Privé. As I looked closer at the gown, especially at the bottom of it, I noticed how the larger sequence he used almost looked like capiz shells, which automatically reminded me of one of my favorite places on earth, Boracay, Philippines.

I'm kind of amazed that I have not done an inspiration board on my home county until today. So here it is my Philippine Island, specifically, Boracay inspiration board. I was going to use a Monique Lhuillier gown for this board, because she is a Filipina, but decided to highlight other designers this time around.

I am inspired by the white sand beaches of Boracay, off the northwest tip of the island of Panay in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines. It is one of the country's most popular tourist destination. It has been a long time destination for Europeans but most Americans probably have not heard of this magical place. I see it as being one of the top destination wedding locations in the coming years.

I am also inspired by capiz shells, pina cloth, tropical blooms, mouth watering cakes with island flavors such as ube and macapuno, and rich colors of the region. Turquoise waters, beautiful sunsets, and perfect weather round out my inspiration.

My Inspirations:
Location: Boracay
Wedding Gown: Armani Privé
Bridesmaid Gown: Priscilla of Boston
Cake: Goldilocks
Bouquet: Your Image Botanical Designs
Barong Tagalog: Barong Filipino Designs
Capiz Shell Chandelier: Exomod

I hope you too will be inspired by the Philippines and the beaches of Boracay!

-Percy

Photos as listed above. Anne Hathaway photo from Photo Agency, sunset Boracay photo Jose de Luna, Boracay Beach with Chairs by Roger Alcantara

Have A Sky-High Wedding

Brides.com is giving an opportunity to 14 lucky couples to have a Sky-High Wedding on top of the Empire State Building in New York City!

So enter today at Brides.com to tell them why you are deserving of this fabulous opportunity, submissions must be made by 11:59:59 ET on October 24, 2008.

If selected as one of the 14 couples you will get:

1. Get married in an intimate ceremony amongst family and friends, styled by the experts at Brides.com.
2. Have pre-wedding consultations by Brides.com editors.
3. Be pampered with hair and makeup for the bride.
4. Enjoy a champagne toast as a newlywed couple.
5. Receive a gift bag worth over $500 and so much more.

Good Luck!

-Percy

Photo from Brides.com

Location Location Location - Casa Barranca in Ojai, CA

I'm giving props to a local estate and vacation rental in my hometown of Ojai, California. This 54 acre craftsman home nestled in the hills of the Ojai Valley is probably one of my favorite rental homes ever! It's called Casa Barranca.

Casa Barranca is surrounded with lush landscaping, incredible views and is the perfect backdrop for a wedding or event. It offers so many options for your event and guests. Additionally, the jaw dropping architecture and furnishings are sure to amaze. If you are staying in the home, you will be pampered not only by the staff but by the location. Talk about a time to relax!

The main house is called the Pratt House and "Architectural Digest notes that in the grace of the Pratt House "...the sun translates the Greenes' structural poetry into ever-shifting patterns of light against polished wood. At night... the silhouette of live oaks is framed against the Milky Way. A closer approximation to Shangri-La is hard to imagine."

Additionally, Casa Barranca also has their own organic vineyard and their wines are fabulous! Accoridng to the Casa Barranca Organic Wine Website, "Our boutique wines are handcrafted in our century old underground stone winery where we use gravity to rack our wines. We are committed to employing winemaking practices without the use of toxic solvents and cleaners. Our winery is powered by solar electricity and we grow and purchase grapes that are farmed without the use of any pesticides or herbicides. This is in keeping with the most time honored traditions of old world winemaking."

Visit the Casa Barranca Website for a virtual tour of the house. If you are interested in checking out this home and other retreat homes in the Ojai Valley, contact Judy Gabriel with Retreats of Ojai and she will be happy to show you what great estates and retreats Ojai has to offer.

-Percy

Photo from Casa Barranca

For You Honeymooners

For you newlyweds and honeymooners, Condé Nest Traveler has released its 14th Annual Gold List of "The Best Places to Stay in the World."

You will find everything from hotels in the United States to Beijing, China and everywhere, and I mean it literally, in the world. Therefore, if you are looking for a getaway or you're planning your memorable honeymoon, consider looking at the recommendations of the readers of Condé Nest Traveler.

Each hotel on the 14th Annual Gold List will have an overall score from 0-100. Additionally, the listing will give you price points from $ to $$$$, location, photos, and will offer an overview of the property. Also, when you click on a property, it will give you the number of rooms on the property as well as ratings on the rooms, service, food, location, design, and activities at the hotel. It's a pretty overwhelming list, but thoroughly helpful.

Here's to hoping you find a fabulous place to stay. Happy resort hunting!

-Percy

Photo from Condé Nest Traveler

Hot Destinations

The honeymoon is usually the one thing that the married couple looks forward to...a way to unwind and relax from the whirlwind wedding that just had. However, couples are also looking for destinations to host their wedding.

Destination weddings are becoming more and more common. Couples are looking for settings that are more intimate and inviting only a handful of their closest family and friends. They are creating mini vacations for their invitees. What a way to remember a couples wedding day.

Here is my Top Five Hot Destination list for 2008. Maybe it will inspire your own honeymoon or destination wedding.

Percy's Top Five for 2008

1. Quebec City, Canada: Wonderful Old World Charm located in North America. Easy access from anywhere in the United States. Very French and Romantic and the Hotel Frontenac offers an amazing background to this walled city.
2. Santa Barbara, California: Often referred to as the American Riviera, this Spanish inspired town located just north of Los Angeles, offers perfect weather year round with picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean.
3. Sorrento, Italy: This lovely town located on the Amalfi Coast is perfect for any destination wedding. Set amongst blooming citrus with that quaint small town feel, you will feel at home even though you are worlds away. Easy Access from Roma (Rome) or Napoli (Naples).
4. Prague, Czech Republic: Prague is what Paris was 40 years ago, though it's quickly becoming the go to place for tourists. It's romantic and dramatic and offers the old world charm without the hustle and bustle of its larger European counterparts. Still it offers many amenities that are still affordable and the backdrop of the city is just breathtaking.
5. Maui, Hawaii: How can you go wrong with Maui? There are so many things to do and the landscape is just wonderful. The town of Hana offers a laid back - tourist free setting, while Kanapali and Kihei offers more of a vibe. Nevertheless, the island itself offers so much for you and your guests that you can't go wrong in choosing this location.

Hopefully this will help you make decisions on your honeymoon or destination wedding. No matter what location you choose, just remember that no matter where you are, the most important thing is that you are there together.

-Percy

Photo from InStyle Weddings