I recently returned from the Business of Brides conference, which is ABC‘s annual conference.   The Conference was held in the ahhhmazzzinng and historic Tremont Plaza Hotel and Grand in Baltimore MD – let me just say that this venue was spectacular!  If I hadn’t promised myself to keep this post on point, I could go on endlessly about The Grand’s incredible ballrooms, furnishings and regal elegance.

It was great to travel north during the Fall… Florida living does not offer much in the way of seasons, so it was wonderful to breathe the crisp air and enjoy the colorful scenery.   The weather was terrific and we got to explore the Inner Harbor area and taste crab and seafood specialties at the local eateries.

So much for the fun stuff; this was a business trip after all.

Being a planner is my career.  Because I take my career as a wedding professional seriously, attending industry conferences is a priority to me – it’s essential my professional development.   This year’s conference required significant advance preparation since I was slated to present an educational session with an ABC colleague, Heather Canada, MBC.   I was also preparing the necessary formalities in anticipation of receiving the professional designation of Master Bridal Consultant(tm) – a long time goal.   (Not to mention packing – which I started two weeks early, lest I forget something!)

I left for Baltimore the morning after completing a sensational wedding for one of our clients.  I think I was running on pure adrenaline (thank goodness for that!).  After arriving at BWI and checking in to the hotel, I polished up a few details and then went before a panel of Masters, the three Master Bridal Consultants who would view and judge my presentation.  I don’t know why this is such a nerve-wracking experience, but most most candidates agree that it is.   And while I did my best – considering a few technical difficulties and an undeniable level of exhaustion – I could not say that I nailed it.

The next morning, the MBC candidates were gathered together and we waited as colleagues were called in and out of rooms…  Eventually my name was called and I entered a meeting room along with a number of others.  I saw many familiar faces but still no indication of success or failure, until Lois Pearce announced that all of us present had advanced to Master Bridal Consultant.  Oh my goodness!  I was literally shocked – and elated! – and proud, too.  I don’t think I’ll ever forget that moment – everyone was cheering and hugging and congratulating each other.  It was awesome. {happy sigh}

So now I  join the ranks of the very talented and dedicated professionals who have achieved either (or both!) the Master Bridal Consultant or Master Wedding Vendor designation – hooray!!
*As of this writing, there are 71 MBC/MBV’s worldwide.

The votes are in…!

Elisa Delgardio - 2010 Orlando WOW Award Nominee

I share this news with great pride and pleasure:  At this year’s Orlando WOW Awards, produced by the Orlando ISES Chapter, I was honored to receive the Peer of the Year Award for Wedding Professional of the Year!

While I was unable to be present at the awards ceremony due to another commitment, I was thrilled to receive the news via text and facebook messages from my colleagues – including a pic of the award envelope!

Criteria for the Peer of the Year Award requires that nominees are members in a participating professional association – such as ISES, ABC, MPI, NACE or HSMAI. Words can’t describe how excited I was to receive the news that I had been nominated by my colleagues! (What a touching accolade!) As a nominee, I was asked by the judging committee to submit a short essay and professional bio regarding my recent accomplishments. The results of the voting were presented September 24th at the 4th Annual Orlando WOW Awards gala reception.

Q & A with Wedding Planners as seen in Orlando Wedding Magazine

Orlando Wedding 2010

The debut issue of Orlando Wedding magazine is absolutely enchanting! I would even go so far as to declare it a ‘must read’ for engaged couples in Central Florida!

Among many terrific articles and features was “Q & A with Wedding Planners” by Megan VanWaus.  Not only was I delighted to be quoted in Megan’s piece, I was elated to be featured alongside fellow Association of Bridal Consultants members Kerline Docteur (Joie de Vie Weddings and Events) and Heather Snively (Weddings Unique). I’m proud to share a common bond with these ladies:  Heather and I are both Senior ABC members, and Kerline and I regularly work together on  ABC meetings and projects geared toward educating local association members and wedding professionals.

Good things come in threes they say, and in this case I certainly agree!

Save the Date!

Browse through hundreds of exquisite name brand and designer wedding gowns donated by manufacturers, retailers, salons and individuals – some valued at up to $8,000!  With prices starting at just $99 you’re sure to find an incredible deal!!

In addition to gowns, you will also find deeply discounted bridal jewelry, head pieces, veils and accessories!

VIP Night: Friday, March 12th 6-9pm Get VIP tickets & have first access to gowns!!

General Sale, Free Admission: Saturday March 13th 10-6pm and Sunday March 14th 10-2pm

Organized by: Association of Bridal Consultants | Location: University Club – 150 E. Central Blvd, Orlando

Pre-register today!
www.BridesAgainstBreastCancer.org

Each month, I have the privilege and the pleasure of working with Kerline Docteur PBC to coordinate networking luncheons for Central Florida members of the Association of Bridal Consultants. The purpose of the luncheons is tri-fold:

First, monthly meetings bring ABC members and potential members (guests) together to build relationships.  Vendor relationships are essential to delivering the best products and services to our clients and facilitiating ”team dynamics”.   

Second, the meetings provide a forum to educate our members.  We bring in speakers and create special programs to keep our members on the cutting edge of wedding and event design, as well as business and marketing trends.  

Third, it’s important to build the presence of ABC within our community.  ABC is an international association with a history that spans over 26 years.  With over 4,000 members located in all 50 states and in 27 countries, ABC’s  goals have always been to raise professional standards in the wedding industry and to make brides happy.  By developing an active Local Networking Group (LNG) we bring attention to the benefits of  ABC membership and showcase the professionalism of our members.    

This year (2009) shines brilliantly as one of our finest and most rewarding to date!  We have planned and coordinated nine luncheon events at venues throughout Central Florida.  In June, we held our third annual “Showers of Happiness” event to benefit Habitat for Humanity. 

(c) Elegant Imagery

In July, we hosted a spectacular educational event entitled “Indian Weddings 101: Defining the Indian Wedding Experience“. For this particular event, we had engaged local Indian Wedding experts to explain the elements and cultural traditions of Hindu, Sikh and Muslim weddings. (Click on these images to see more fabulous pictures of this event, posted on the ABC Florida  website.)

(c) Elegant Imagery

Shown left:  Akshar Patel, Kerline Docteur, Elisa Delgardio and Remmal Karamsadkar

 As in years past, October marked the end of our meeting calendar and we were determined to create a memorable event! We tapped some of our best resources (members!) to provide catering, decor, entertainment and ‘enhancements’ for our event. We also had the generous support of a few friends (future members…?) and when all the elements came together the outcome was sensational!

Heather Canada, ABC of First Coast Weddings presented a very insightful educational session entitled Business Administration for Creative Types in which she shared some excellent time management and organizational techniques. After Heather’s presentation, attendees enjoyed a delicious three course luncheon prepared by the catering team at the Rosen Centre Hotel. Then we revealed a special treat: a live performance arranged by ABC member Lisa Kovach (Key Artist Group)!

We are so grateful to the long list of fabulous professionals who made our closing meeting of 2009 such an incredible success! Kudos to: Michelle Williams – Rosen Centre Hotel, Cheryl Andrews – Cheryl’s Distinctive Creations, Lisa Kovach – Key Artist Group, Rose Robinson – Invitation Lounge, Nermala – Unique Linens, Quest Drape, Allan Jay Images, Bruce – Treasured Moments Videography, M.J. Farb – Junction 88, Pure Magic Ice Cream, and Heather Canada of First Coast Weddings.

We are happy to share this video link with you; it will take a few minutes to load since the video is approximately 8 minutes long, but I’m sure you will enjoy it!

Rosen Centre Hotel hosts ABC’s October Local Networking Luncheon from Bruce Reynolds Treasured Moments on Vimeo. (From the above video on Vimeo,  ABC October Meeting, this is the full version of  ‘The Kiss’  from Art in Motion managed by Lisa Kovach of Key Artist Group.)

For more information on the Association of Bridal Consultants, please visit: www.BridalAssn.com  For information on local meetings and upcoming events, please visit: www.ABC-Florida.com

Earlier this week I had the opportunity to share my insights and experiences with students at the Rosen College. I was in good company because other members of the panel included ISES Orlando Chapter President Christine Logan (T. Skorman Productions) and fellow ISES Board member Byron Loper (Ice Magic). Laura Ball (Orlando Marriott Downtown) was on hand to represent NACE and I was delighted to represent ABC and ISES. Dr. Mary Jo Ross, CSEP CPCE had invited us to speak to the students about our multifaceted careers in the special event industry (which I always enjoy!). Also worth mentioning is the fact that rising stars Laura Ball and Byron Loper are RCHM Alumni and former students of Dr. Ross.

It was very exciting to be able to share valuable information (pointers) with the students regarding networking with other industry professionals, as well as tips for getting noticed by prospective employers, gaining experience and building their resumes. They are so lucky to have these types of educational opportunities!

© 2008 E. Delgardio All Rights Reserved

I don’t even know where to begin…. I’m feeling pretty badly about the fact that my blog is withering in the corner like an unwatered plant! It’s certainly not for the lack of things to write about…. It’s actually just the opposite.

During the past six to eight weeks I’ve had the pleasure of working on some really spectacular projects! I spent a number of weeks working with the Director of Events at the Rosen College of Hospitality Management assisting with the development of the 2009 Grande Hospitality Gala. It was very exciting to be invited back as Assistant to the Event Producer, as I had a phenomenal time assisting with the 2008 Grande Gala!

Fall wedding season is keeping me quite busy! I was fortunate to squeeze in a post on an event that took place early in October. Subsequently, I’ve been posting little blurbs on Facebook regarding my recent adventures with weddings and events.(Be sure to check out the A Flair for Affairs fan page if you are active on Facebook!)

During October I was also busy planning a wonderful event for the Central Florida members of ABC. With the help of my ABC LNG Co-Director, Kerline Docteur, we organized a luncheon at Casa Feliz and had the privilege of having Rebecca Grinnels, President of Engaging Concepts as our guest speaker! She gave an outstanding presentation to our group and I continue to receive raves about her and endless compliments on the event. It was a great day! (I could’ve and should’ve written a full blog on this alone, but alas, the days just keep flying by!… I may try to recap it more completely after I catch up…).

ISES’s monthly event was held at IKEA in October; the event centered on a Table Top Design Competition using preselected IKEA merchandise and featured well known ISES member Ira Steiman as our speaker. Teams of ISES members and guests created about a dozen amazing tablescapes which were judged by the IKEA managers. It was an incredible treat to be part of an event that has NEVER been done before!

Looking forward to December, there is a huge industry luncheon on the horizon…! I’ve been attending committee meetings for this event on behalf of ISES and ABC and I’m really excited about the holiday theme that’s taking shape! This event will take place at the stunning Ginn Reunion Resort on Dec. 4th – can’t wait!

Let’s see… Let’s see… what am I leaving out…? I think I forgot to mention the chihuahua puppy (!) who joined our family about 5 weeks ago. His name is Baci – which I believe means ‘kisses’ in Italian. He’s the cutest little thing and seems to be adjusting to his new life; overall he’s been quite good and we love him!

Whew! – I’m suddenly feeling much better!

© 2008 E. Delgardio All Rights Reserved

The Renaissance Vinoy Resort in St. Petersburg, Florida was the host hotel for ISES Eventworld 2008 on August 21-23.

What a blast! Hundreds of ISES members from around the globe attended EW this year, and experienced a variety of educational offerings, networking opportunities and well-deserved recognition for their work.

As I mentioned last week, I was really excited about this conference for a number of reasons… For starters, this was my first time attending Eventworld, and I was looking forward to catching up with old friends and making new acquaintances. Not to mention that I was all hyped up about the Esprit Awards and the Spirit of Excellence Awards. In addition to that, the Vinoy is one of my all time favorite hotels! It’s a historic hotel (c. 1925) that boasts beautiful views of the St. Pete Pier and waterfront, incredible cuisine and luxurious amenities (like fabulously comfy beds!)

Well, unfortunately, our “Gala at the Grove” ( 2007 ABC Gala) event did not garner the coveted Esprit Award – but we are still happy that our event and team received worldwide recognition as nominees, and it was truly an honor to be in such distinguished company. And sadly (sigh) despite our best efforts, our Orlando Chapter did not take home a Spirit of Excellence Award… Yet, we are quite proud that Orlando’s own David DeLoach was sworn in as President of ISES International. (This marks the third time that a Past-President from the ISES Orlando Chapter has served as International President.)

Following the Esprit Awards on Saturday evening, we enjoyed a fabulous dinner reception in the Vinoy Grand Ballroom. You can see from the photos that the ballroom decor had a whimsical & elegant black and white theme, and the lighting was quite stunning. I had the good fortune of sharing this event experience with my friend and associate Kerline Doctuer PBC. And to our delight, we were seated alongside Sasha Souza MBC – an accomplished and well respected member of both ISES and ABC. Sasha spoke candidly with Kerline and I about many issues that we face as planners, blogging and her involvement as Events Chairperson with The SEARCH Foundation (Special Events Assistance & Resources with a Caring Heart). (Perhaps more on Sasha in a future post…)

All in all, it was a wonderful conference, and an especially memorable evening.

© 2008 E. Delgardio All Rights Reserved. Image courtesy of Elisa Delgardio. Shown: Eddie Diaz, Christine Logan, J. Michael Hicks, Awny Khashoggi, Richard Streitler, Kerline Doctuer

Exciting stuff to mention regarding ISES happenings!

On July 18th I attended the ISES Orlando Chapter Installation event at Isleworth Country Club. (ICC is truly one of my favorite venues… but I digress… )

The Installation event was lovely and dinner was wonderful. I was proud to be inducted to my second term as a Director at Large. I will continue working on the Programs and Education team and focus on arranging the educational content for our monthly meetings. I’m really looking forward to this year! Our team achieved some amazing things over the course of the last year, especially with regard to the “Class of 2008″ meeting series concept, and the level of excitement in our Chapter is really high!

While at Eventworld, I’m looking forward to attending the Esprit Awards Celebration. I’ve attended a number of industry awards celebrations over the years, but this will be the first time I’m attending as a nominee (!). I’m already quite honored to have my work recognized on an international level as one of the top three events in it’s category. (Wow!) In and of itself, the nomination is a huge feather in my cap; plus it will bring attention to key members of the event team who are also ISES members, and to the Association of Bridal Consultants because “Gala at the Grove” 2007 was also produced with the support of many talented ABC members. Of course if I actually take home one of the Esprit Awards for “Best ISES Team Effort” I’ll be over the top!

According to ISES, the Esprit Awards are “designed to acknowledge the extraordinary efforts, performance, and outstanding contributions of ISES members in the special events planning industry”. They serve as the mark of global distinction and the highest level of professional acknowledgement within the special events industry today. “The ISES Esprit Awards celebrate those event professionals who have turned their ideas into accomplishments”.

Wish me luck!

© 2008 E. Delgardio All Rights Reserved; Image courtesy of Christie’s

Today started off with an interesting little situation… which I was all prepared to write about as it involved a fellow coordinator who found pictures from her website on another (newer) coordinator’s website. My mind ran wild with the editorial possibilities – but that was at 10 am.

At 11:30 I was scrambling to make it to a meeting with our ABC State Coordinator. We had an appointment to ‘catch up’ – as she is quite a busy lady and I always enjoy the opportunity to fill her in on a things I’ve been working on and hear about her latest projects.

Following that, I rush back to the office, pull email and start catching up on my to-do list… At least I tried. On the to-do list today: Make programs for Wedding #1 this weekend, prepare sales tax, return phone calls and email… Oh, the rental company can’t find my cc authorization so I need to re-fax… And, in the midst of all of this, I’m working on a special project for ISES which involves my typing a few pages of information for our Programs & Education binder (part of our “Chapter of the Year” submission). And so it went… and then something really fabulous happened…

About 5 pm I received an email from ISES Headquarters with information regarding the annual Esprit Awards. The email started off like this:

The 2008 ISES Esprit Awards Committee would like to thank the exceptional ISES Members who submitted an entry for the 2008 ISES Esprit Awards. Each and every entry represented the high level of professionalism practiced by ISES Members world-wide. You are all truly the best and brightest in the Special Events Industry!

Flashback (I may have to use this term a lot since my blog is new): A few months ago, with the help and support of a few colleagues and members of the event team, I submitted an event for an Esprit Award. Aside from sitting for the CSEP exam, it was literally one of the most challenging things I’ve ever done (from a professional standpoint). It took 3 of us about 80 hours to put this binder together – I mean, it was a very involved process – and all this going on right in the middle of prime-time wedding season. Somehow, we finished project, and it was actually quite impressive; we felt good about it and hoped it would do well in the judging….

So, the email says: Click here for the 2008 ISES Esprit Nominees - and I did….my heart was pounding as I scrolled through a long list of categories and names and then on page 11 I found my name! – and our event! – and my ISES Orlando team members!!! Oh my gosh- that was exciting! I took a few minutes to email our team with the news and and then it was back to work… another meeting from 6 – 9…

What an exhausting and exhilarating day!

© 2008 E. Delgardio All Rights Reserved