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Sep 19
0

Our Top Five Wedding Send Offs

By | Blog, Ask The Experts, EBE News

Wedding Send Offs are fun, whimsical, and involves all of your guests! We’ve gotten together our top five send offs, which are sure to create picture-perfect memories.

1. Sparklers

Sparklers are a tried-and-true send off. They’re relatively inexpensive to buy in bulk, easy to hand out, and create well-lit photographs.

Redfield Photography

2. Rose Petals

Rose Petal send offs have gained some popularity this wedding season, and we love it! Just make sure it’s done outside for an easy clean up.

Aaron and Jillian Photography

3. Bubbles

Bubbles are an old tradition that evolved from throwing rice as the married couple left their service. The rice was initially used to “shower” the couple with prosperity and good fortune.

John Cain Photography

4. Lanterns

Setting off Chinese Lanterns has been popular for years, and we don’t see it going anywhere. Make sure to purchase biodegradable lanterns!

Philip Casey Photography

5. Mummers

The Mummers have always been a part of Philadelphia history, and have consistently had a place at the weddings of family members. Ever since Jason Kelce stole the show in a Mummers Costume at the Eagles Superbowl Champs Parade, the costumes have become more popular among non-mummers. Our favorite way to do a Mummers Send Off? Book authentic Philly Mummers to play “When the Saints Go Marching In” as they lead your guests out of the room, and maybe even to the after party!

Alimario Photography





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Sep 19
0

Our Top 10 Historic Places to Get Married in Philadelphia

By | Blog, Spotlights, EBE News

A city with rich history and beauty, Philadelphia is one of the best places to get married in the United States. There are some fantastic locations in Philly that also allow people to get hitched. City Hall? Yep, most cities allow this. But have you ever considered getting married in the same building as America’s first department store? How about the oldest botanical garden in the USA? We’ve compiled a list of our top 10 favorite unique and historical places to get married in Philly.

Ballroom at the Ben | Ben Franklin House

834 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | Tel. 215-627-5100

Exquisite chandeliers, European ambiance, and turn-of-the-century elegance, make the newly renovated Ballroom at the Ben a truly perfect setting for life’s most important events. You and your guests will be directed to the mezzanine level, which overlooks the palatial Ballroom for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. During your event, you will experience this classic refurbished ballroom just as Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence did when they danced their way to an Academy Award in “The Silver Linings Playbook.” With culinary masterpieces to entice any palate, Finley Catering and the Ballroom at the Ben are simply the best!

Interested in Ballroom at the Ben? Let Kathleen & Ott know that EBE sent you!

 

Bartram’s Garden

5400 Lindbergh Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19143 | Tel. 215-729-5281

Located on 45 acres, this national historical landmark is located right on the bank of the Schuylkill River. The rich history that predates the founding of our country will spark interest in guests to dive into the old world Philadelphia and the importance of John Bartram’s advancements in the field of botany. The stunning location offers a beautiful garden feel within city limits. The historic garden offers intimate settings that can be customized to fit the ceremony, cocktails or games.

Interested in Bartram’s Garden? Let Kate & Leslie know that EBE sent you!

 

Crystal Tea Room | The Wanamaker Building

100 Penn Square East, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | Tel. 215-627-5100

The Crystal Tea Room is situated in the heart of Philadelphia steps away from City Hall. Upon arrival, guests will directed to the atrium to enjoy cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. The glassed soaring atrium is an indoor conservatory featuring a fountain and greenery providing a year round “outdoor atmosphere” with no threat of weather. Then, guests proceed into the heart of the Crystal Tea Room featuring carved columns and opulent crystal chandeliers making this ballroom timeless. Finley Catering’s executive chef and catering team has reached the acme of culinary brilliance, redefining the standard of cuisine. The grandeur of The Crystal Tea Room is sure to take your breath away, while creating an unforgettable wedding venue for your once-in-a-lifetime event. The most elegant of settings, matched by impeccable personal service and attention, combined with over 40 years of catering expertise creates a truly unforgettable experience for you and your guests.

Interested in the Crystal Tea Room? Let Michelle & Miguel know that EBE sent you!

 

The Franklin Institute

222 North 20th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103 | Tel. 215-448-1200

One of the most captivating, unique and historical places to get married in Philly, The Franklin Institute is a choice location to tie the knot. The happy couple can exchange vows on the rooftop deck overlooking the Ben Franklin Parkway then enjoy signature cocktails in one of the exhibits within the museum like Wisdom Hall and Your Brain.

Interested in The Franklin Institute? Let Gina know that EBE sent you!

 

Free Library of Philadelphia

1901 Vine Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103 | Tel. 215-923-6000

When you walk into the historic building, you will be in awe by the detailed architecture and high ceilings. The Skyline Room on the 4th floor is a modern addition to the charming historic building with an adjacent outdoor terrace. It can hold cocktail receptions for 150 people, theater-style seating for 240, and seated dinners for 185. It’s hidden gem, the outside terrace, offers a unique point of view in the city overlooking Shakespeare Park and, beyond it, Logan Circle and the city skyline. With 6 different spaces to host your event, Free Library makes for a stunning venue for weddings, corporate events, birthday parties, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs and more.

Interested in the Free Library? Let Samantha know that EBE sent you!

 

Moshulu

401 South Columbus Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA 19106 | Tel. 215-923-2500

Create your own storybook wedding aboard a Philadelphia landmark. The Moshulu’s private rooms take full advantage of the unparalleled views of Philadelphia’s waterfront and skyline, including the newly remodeled State Room. The multi-level decks offer a glorious open air experience, as well as tented space, which is heated for year-round use. The finest cuisine is paired with their skilled professionals, resulting in a memorable wedding for you and your guests.

Interested in the Moshulu? Let Jake & the rest of the team know that EBE sent you!

 

Mütter Museum | The College of Physicians of Philadelphia

19 South 22nd Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103 | Tel. 215.399.2245

This beautiful New Beaux-Arts style building, constructed in 1908 and designed by Cope and Stewardson, has the unique distinction of being home to the oldest medical society in the country (founded in 1787) and the renowned Mütter Museum. As guests walk inside, they are surrounded by grandeur and elegance, and greeted by Aesculapius – the Greek god of medicine. The magnificent columned Marble Rotunda, with its view of a classic grand staircase, sets the stage for any occasion. With its historic ambience and stately architecture, it’s no wonder that the College – located in Philadelphia’s charming Rittenhouse-Fitler Historic District – has been the chosen setting for a diverse range of memorable events.

Interested in the Mütter Museum? Let Elizabeth & Kristen know that EBE sent you!

 

One North Broad | The Philadelphia Masonic Temple

One North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA 19107 | Tel. 215-988-1936

Exchange vows amidst beautiful stained glass, sip cocktails inside large marble foyers and dance the night away in a spacious Grand Ballroom. The spirit, history and luxury of Philadelphia comes alive inside the breathtaking Masonic Temple. Host an intimate wedding ceremony, a grand reception and everything in between within this historic fine events venue.

Interested in One North Broad? Let Terri know that EBE sent you!

 

Please Touch Museum

4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA 19131 | Tel. 215-578-5179

Nestled within the picturesque Fairmount Park, lies the architecturally magnificent Memorial Hall, the oldest of Brulee Catering’s landmark locations. This national treasure from Philadelphia’s 1876 Centennial Exhibition is now home to a children’s museum during the day: Please Touch Museum. It serves as one of the region’s most spectacular event spaces, accommodating a sit-down dinner for up to 1,000 guests and receptions as large as 3,000 guests. From elaborate weddings and bar & bat mitzvahs to unique corporate galas and philanthropic productions, Please Touch Museum at Memorial Hall is sure to impress.

Interested in the Please Touch Museum? Let Marley know that EBE sent you!

 

University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology

3260 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104 | Tel. 215-898-4000

Designed in the 1890s, this beautiful historic building located on the University of Pennsylvania’s campus is one of Philadelphia’s premier unique venues. The Penn Museum is a 300,000 square-foot gem with exterior details including glass mosaics by the Tiffany Glass Company, sculptures by Alexander Stirling Calder, and marble medallions by John Ross of New York City. The Museum houses one-of-a-kind artifacts acquired from over 300 archaeological and anthropological expeditions, and they invite you and your guests to discover the world in just one night. Stunning event space and priceless collections make the Penn Museum an unparalleled event experience!

Interested in the Penn Museum? Let Atiya know that EBE sent you!





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Sep 19
0

Wedding After-Party Spots in Philadelphia

By | Blog, Ask The Experts, EBE News

A wedding celebration begins first thing in the morning, and doesn’t stop until the last few invited guests say their goodbyes. For most, the party doesn’t end when the reception does.

Searching for the best spots to hit up for an after party in Philly? Let’s start with these three.

 

The Trestle Inn

The Trestle Inn, located just north of Chinatown off of I-676, is open from Wednesday through Saturday nights until 2:00 a.m. The Inn is always playing 60s and 70s-inspired music with décor, food, and gogo dancers to match the era. Known for its famous Whiskey Sour, the Trestle Inn is the perfect spot to continue the wedding celebrations. Follow them on Instagram at @the_trestle_inn and find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TheTrestleInn.

 

Tir na nÓg

Tir na nÓg, located near the Reading Terminal Market, is open until 2:00 a.m. every day. This centrally-located spot offers a unique Irish experience with New American fare. Known for pouring the best Guinness Pint in town and also awarded the Best Bartenders by Philly Style, Tir na nÓg is an ideal place to keep the wedding party alive. Follow them on Instagram at @tirnanogirishbar and find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/tnnphilly.

 

Raven Lounge

The Raven Lounge, located in the Rittenhouse area, is open until 2 AM Monday through Saturday. This lounge has it all: music, food, drinks, and variety shows. The lounge offers a cool bar/club vibe and the food has rave reviews, especially the wings. The staff provides excellent service and will help keep the wedding celebrations going all night long. Follow them on Instagram at @ravenlounge and find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/theravenlounge.

 

 

Did you choose to party at one of these spots after your wedding? We would love to hear your experience so contact us and let us know!





Want to stay up-to-date on Event and Bridal Trends? Learn about Vendors We Love? New EBE Products?

Sep 18
0

EBE Vendor Feature: Marc Uravic

By | Blog, Ask The Experts, Spotlights, EBE News, Vendor Features

In our industry, it’s impossible to execute an incredible event without the help of other dynamic vendors. In our Vendor Features, we learn more about the people who we love to work with event after event, and year after year. First up is Marc Uravic, of Marc Uravic Event Design!

Photo by Amanda Stevenson

Marc has been in the event industry for over 30 years, and started Marc Uravic Event Design 21 years ago. He was working the the sales office at Frog Commissary Catering, and had this notion that he wanted to move up the special event food chain. While at FCC, he had many amazing opportunities to work on every kind and scale of special event imaginable, all while working with an incredible array of clients and industry partners. Marc continued to be drawn to the glamorous realms of the event industry, so he took the knowledge and experience he had acquired, mixed it with his talent, creativity, and organizational skills, and Marc Uravic Event Design was born!

 

We sat down to learn all about him… check it out!

What makes Marc Uravic Event Design Stand out next to companies like it?

The simple answer is me. I have a unique perspective on event design and production that is a result of my life and professional experiences. I draw from my back ground as a professional ballet dancer for a little theatricality. I take inspiration from books, movies, theater, design, architecture, travel, restaurants, and people to fuel my imagination. I have a love for food- and how food is integral to human celebrations- that was instilled in me by my large family and was honed in while working in catering.

I love a well-designed environment for a party and how it effects the guest experience, and have gained hands-on knowledge of how to execute these designs by working on the design, production, and set up crews to bring the visions to fruition. I love integrating all forms of entertainment, sometimes in different and unusual ways, into an overall event plan where each element supports and enhances the whole. I achieve my career satisfaction using this experience and imagination to fuel the creativity that makes events that I work on a reflection of my clients and their story.

Tell us about your favorite event you ever designed

My favorite event was a multi-day celebration for a client’s milestone birthday at The Lodge at Woodloch, a spa in Hawley, Pennsylvania. I loved that I got to design every aspect of the guests’ experience for multiple days for a large group of people. I got to personalize guest amenities- monogrammed bathrobes, hand written welcome notes, individualized spa and activity schedules, snacks and beverages with guests individual preferences in their rooms, etc.

I was able to brief the whole staff of the lodge with a “look book” for the guests so that they (mostly) knew everyone’s name upon arrival. I designed menus for every meal across the 3 days, including a welcome camp fire, a lunch served on top of a mountain during a hike, a gala dinner dance with 5-entree selection prepared à la minute, a tea menu, healthy snacks in the spa, a closing brunch, and individualized boxed lunches for the trip back home.

I also set up and ran the gamut of entertainment for the weekend with big bands, small bands, a magician, various spa treatments, tennis tournament, golf outing, bike ride, hike, and a late night water volley ball game/hot tub session. I even got to “Executive Produce” a humorous tribute film!

The gala dinner dance went until after 2 in the morning because the whole team and the guests were having the time of their lives. This event was epic and people are still talking about it many years later!

What motivates you to work hard?

The feeling that I get when every aspect of an event is flowing perfectly and the guests are having an amazing time.

What Wedding Trends are you Loving?

I am loving the trend towards making weddings more unique and less formulaic.

What Wedding Trends are you Ready to See Go Away?

I am ready to see the trend of napkins draped over the edge of dining tables in place settings go away forever. Seeing a table set like this sets me on edge. It looks like laundry hung out to dry.

Favorite Wedding Month?

October

What is your Best Advice for Potential Clients?

Always start with a guest list- in writing. Every decision you make in the process of planning an event will eventually intersect with the guest list.

What is your Favorite thing to do in Philadelphia?

Dine out at the amazing restaurants

What is your Zodiac Sign?

Pisces

What is your Favorite Movie?

The Lion in Winter- the dialogue is amazing!

What is your Go-to at Karaoke?

No one in their right mind would ever let me perform karaoke in front of live humans or animals… but in my shower, my go to is any Celine Dion power ballad!

Do you play any instruments?

I have taken piano lessons in the past but my musical passion was always focused on classical ballet

Do you have any skills or talents that most people don’t know about?

I can change the oil in my car.

If you could join any past or present music group, which would you want to join?

EBE LA Starz!

Show us some of your work!





Want to stay up-to-date on Event and Bridal Trends? Learn about Vendors We Love? New EBE Products?

Sep 13
0

Wedding Budget Tips: The Wedding Cake

By | Blog, DIY, Ask The Experts, EBE News

When sitting down with their wedding budget, most couples are surprised to find how much a wedding cake can actually cost. Depending on the amount of guests that will attend the event, the cost can skyrocket pretty quickly. But don’t fret! There are ways to save with a little creativity and know-how so you can keep that budget under control.

Photo by Mary Alice Hall

Small Presentation Cake & Sheet Cake

If you have your heart set on a specific cake design but don’t have the funds to drop hundreds (or even thousands), consider having your baker make a small presentation cake and a sheet cake. The presentation cake will be cut in front of guests, while the sheet cake is what is served to guests to eat. This can sometimes save up to 50% of the cost of a standard wedding cake! You’ll get the best of both worlds…a beautiful cake for everyone to see and a delicious cake that keeps you on budget.

 

 

Photo by Clarence Chan

Skip The Baker, Hit The Grocery Store

Did you know that places like your local grocery store or big box store offers baking services? You can save tons of cash by opting to have your cake baked and decorated there instead of at a fancy bakery. If your wedding cake plans are fairly simple, stop into your local store to ask if they’re able to make it. The employees who work in these departments are always trained bakers, so don’t let the store name scare you! You’re guaranteed to save big time with this little switch.

 

 

Photo by Laura Murray Photography

Keep it Simple

The bigger and more extravagant the cake is, the more it will cost you. By keeping the flavors, patterns, and topper simple, your costs will be kept down. Think of it this way – time is money. Choosing a simple flavor like chocolate, vanilla, or lemon will also result in a more affordable cake, because your baker won’t need to purchase additional ingredients. You can also DIY your cake topper and give it to your baker instead of having them create something edible!

 

 

 

If you liked these tips and want to share how you used them, we’d love to hear from you!




Want to stay up-to-date on Event and Bridal Trends? Learn about Vendors We Love? New EBE Products?

Sep 13
0

EBE Spotlight: Brian Lizzi

By | Blog, Spotlights

EBE’s Brian Lizzi:

Entertainment Representative &

Bandleader of Monte Carlo

 

EBE is made up of a myriad of people and personalities. Throughout this series of EBE Spotlights, we’re looking past the job title and learning more about what makes our team tick. We were able to sit down with Brian Lizzi this week, one of EBE’s Entertainment Representatives & the Bandleader and Drummer in EBE’s Monte Carlo.

Brian is one of EBE’s five Entertainment Representatives. He’s responsible for getting to know every client that comes across his desk, and helping them choose the perfect entertainment for their event. His laugh is incredibly contagious – In fact, you can often hear it echoing through the hall at our Live Band Showcases.

He has been a bandleader in the event industry for 20 years, and has been with EBE for 8 of them. Throughout those 8 years, he has been managing Monte Carlo, and has been consistently executing incredible events year after year. He plays the drums in the band, and has been playing them ever since he picked up a drum stick at five years old. To see Monte Carlo in action, watch their teaser video below and register for our any of our upcoming Bi-Weekly or Monthly Live Band Showcases!

I asked Brian a series of serious & silly questions to get to know him better. Check it out below!

What genre of music is your specialty?
All of the above… but I’m a Jazz Cat

What was the best event you ever worked?
I played at two Presidential Inaugurals

Who is your hero?
Buddy Rich

What is your favorite movie?
Goodfellas

Do you have any skills or talents that most people don’t know about?
I’m a car detailer

What is your zodiac sign?
Pisces

If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Gnocchi!!

What is your favorite thing about your career?
That I get to play my drums

Who would you want to play you in a movie of your life?
Joe Pesci

If you could join any past or present music group, which would you want to join?
Buddy Rich’s Big Band or Chicago




Want to learn more about our EBE Team Members? Vendors We Love? New Products?

Sep 12
0

EBE Real Weddings: Tara + Dustin

By | Blog, Event Highlights, EBE Real Weddings, EBE News

The beauty of weddings is that every event is different. From style preferences and personal touches, to tradition and inspiration – each wedding is a unique product of the couple’s hard work and planning.

We asked Wedding Industry Pro, Tara, and Senior Financial Systems Analyst, Dustin, to take us on a visual tour of their wedding day. They celebrated their beautiful NJ Wedding on August 26th, 2017 at Clarks Landing Yacht Club in Delran, NJ. Their Wedding Style was nautical and glam with some amazing DIY touches, and their color palate matched that perfectly.

Let’s walk through their day to see how they pulled it all together!

9:00 a.m. – Getting Ready

While Dustin spent the morning with his groomsmen at his mother’s home, Tara started her day at The Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill. Her bridal party joined her for hair and makeup, which was provided by Bella Angel Hair & Makeup.

2:00 p.m. – Photographer + Videographer Arrive

The couple’s Photographer, Todd Zimmerman of Pictures by Todd Photography, and Videographers, Doug and Lance of CineMotion4U, arrived for some getting ready photos and video at the hotel.  

3:00 p.m. – First Look

The couple and their wedding party went downstairs for pre-ceremony photos and the bride and groom’s first look. The Bridesmaids’ Dresses, Flower Girls’ dresses, and the Bride’s Gown were all from David’s Bridal. The Groom and Groomsmen’s suits were from Men’s Wearhouse.


4:00 p.m. – Head to the Venue

Albert’s Limousine Service took the couple and their group to the Clarks Landing Yacht Club, where the couple would tie the knot. The rest of the pre-ceremony photos and amazing drone videos were taken in the venue’s garden and on the dock. Shortly after, their outdoor waterfront ceremony began.

5:30 p.m. – Ceremony

The setting couldn’t have been more appropriate for their nautical-themed nuptials. Their ceremony was officiated by Steve Meranus, long time friend of the couple and the owner of EBE Talent. The live musicians and ceremony sound amplification were also provided by EBE.



6:30 p.m. – Cocktail Hour

Cocktail Hour began in the venue’s pre-function space. The couple greeted their guests as they enjoyed Hors d’oeuvres from Clarks Landing Catering as well as live music and a photo booth by EBE. Guests also picked up their seating cards, which were DIY-printed by the bride, and placed in wooden stands that the groom made. Mason jars adorned with twine, blue and white ribbon, and wooden anchor cutouts were created by the bridal party for Tara’s Bridal Shower, and were repurposed for the cocktail space and filled with baby’s breath. The couple also chose to honor their loved ones who have passed on by setting out some special photos and a beautiful poem to acknowledge them on their special day.

7:30 p.m. – Reception

The sun had set, the reception doors opened, and the band was ready to party! EBE’s Barcelona played dance music that got all the couple’s guests right on the dance floor, where they would remain for most of the evening.

Keeping with their nautical theme, the couples’ cake by DiBartolo Bakery sat on a custom wooden dock made by the groom as another DIY win. Their centerpieces were a combination of DIY pieces collected and customized by the couple (spray painted wine bottles and wooden table numbers from Wedding Craft Shop, as well as a mix of lanterns and candles for a rustic glam look) and gorgeous fresh flowers and styling from Arrangements Unlimited. The Bride designed her own production and light show that tied it all together and set the mood for the night. She chose to elevate the band on a stage that was framed with wrapped truss towers, topped with intelligent lights, and scattered with pixel mapping freedom sticks. Amber uplights gave the room a stunning candle light glow.

 

The evening was an absolute show-stopper, overflowing with good vibes and filled with love. Congrats again, Tara and Dustin! #theyjustglick


Vendor List Recap

Getting Ready Hotel: The Crowne Plaza Cherry Hill
Venue: Clarks Landing Yacht Club
Hair + Makeup: Bella Angel Hair & Makeup
Photographer: Pictures by Todd Photography
Videographer: CineMotion4U
Photo Booth: EBE Talent
Wedding Gown, Bridesmaid Dresses, Flower Girl Dresses: David’s Bridal
Groom + Groomsmen Suits: Men’s Wearhouse
Transportation: Albert’s Limousine Service
Band: Barcelona, EBE Talent
Lighting Design: EBE Talent
Decor: DIY + Arrangements Unlimited
Wedding Cake: DiBartolo Bakery




Want to stay up-to-date on Event and Bridal Trends? Learn about Vendors We Love? New EBE Products?

Aug 30
0

Wedding Trends: Boudoir Photos

By | Blog, EBE News

Wedding Trends:

Bridal Boudoir Photos
with Swiger Photography

 

Boudoir-Style Photography has been growing in popularity over the past few years. Whether it’s for a bride, their spouse, or just because – being pampered and having photos taken is an amazing experience. We sat down for coffee with Amanda Swiger, owner of Swiger Photography,  to discuss the ins and outs of boudoir photography.

Tell me about Swiger Photography!

Swiger Photography is an inclusivity-minded photography company located in the heart of Philadelphia that specializes in wedding and boudoir photography. We have been around for almost 9 years now, and have shot literally hundreds of weddings and portraits sessions in that time. I honestly feel like I have the best job in the world. 

How and why did you end up focusing on boudoir sessions?

After focusing heavily on weddings for the first 7.5 years of my business, I knew I wanted to expand Swiger Photography and the most natural place was boudoir. Many of my brides and other clients were already asking for boudoir sessions, and empowering women (and feminine people as a whole) is something that I am very passionate about… So this felt like a great time to just take the leap and get a studio set up to offer boudoir photography! I knew that, first and foremost, I would be focusing on providing an experience that allows my clients and brides to do this for themselves, because I wholeheartedly believe that there is nothing sexier than loving yourself. Feeling sexy and beautiful changes drastically from person to person, so the style of the photo shoot really varies from client to client. 

How often do your brides add on a boudoir session?

Pretty often actually – Currently 72% of my brides are adding on a boudoir session! I would say that most of them add it to have sexy, beautiful pictures for themselves that they can also gift their future spouse, versus making it bridal-specific. It is super fun when they want to incorporate details of their wedding day into their session though – especially veils! They make for some really sweet images! 

Do you find that having a boudoir session for the bride ties into their wedding day photography at all?

I 100% believe that the more you and your photographer know each other and work together, the more smoothly things go! It also makes me feel more like an old friend, someone you trust and know has your back, rather than a stranger on your wedding day! I know that most of my clients are more nervous about doing a boudoir session than having pictures taken on their wedding day, and I am always letting them know that is normal! Getting in your underwear and having me tell you to do all kinds of silly-feeling things to get those sexy shots feels intimidating and nerve wracking… and I am always assuring my clients throughout their session that they look amazing, showing them shots on the back of my camera, and making them laugh with my corny jokes. Most women leave saying that it was a lot more fun than they thought, and that trust level with me definitely carries over to their wedding day!

Do you find that your bridal clients get the boudoir photos for themselves or for their future spouse?

My hope is that all of my clients are doing this for themselves first and foremost. When a client comes in and is ready to own their body and do this for themselves, magic happens! They often are less worried about loosing weight, hiding things that others have called flaws, and just want to be themselves for the session… just a sexier version than their every day!  But I also know that many brides see this as a great gift for their partner, and I, of course, agree! I think that brides that do boudoir sessions for themselves, and are able to gift the images to someone they love, that is the greatest combination!

What is your advice to an upcoming bride that is debating getting boudoir photos taken?

First, as I said earlier, the nerves are normal. Every woman you see here and in my portfolio was nervous when they walked into my studio.

Second, don’t try to be someone you are not for your session! People tell me all the time that they don’t know how to be sexy, and I tell them every time how untrue that is, because everyone can be sexy. (And sexy can look a hundred different ways!) Love sweaters, high socks, and comfy underwear? Let’s do it, babe! Body suits, thigh highs, and lacy things more your speed? Bring it on! Into more of a implied nude vibe? Love it! Want to look super bridal and wear all white? Let’s go all the way with it! Are you more edgy and love blacks and fishnets and leather? Sounds amazing! It all looks equally awesome! Just be you.

Third, this is a GREAT time to do your hair and makeup trial! Your photos will look even more bridal, and you get an excuse to enjoy that pretty hair and makeup for a little longer!

Finally, give yourself enough time before the wedding to book your session and get your products back in time! The last thing you want to be doing the week of your wedding is worrying if your album or prints will get there in time.

Do you provide hair and make-up services for your clients?

I do! I offer it as an add on because, as I mentioned, a lot of my brides do their hair and makeup trial the day of their session. I have even had clients who would rather do their own! I always suggest adding it on if you aren’t doing your trial that day, because it truly is a great way to get pampered, feel relaxed before your session, and my team knows exactly what looks great in my space and on my clients! Ultimately, it’s totally up to you!

Where is your studio located?

Most of the images you see here were taken at my studio in Kensington. That being said, we are moving to a brand new space in Old City on October 1st! We wanted to offer a more high-end lifestyle vibe to our sessions, so we will have a full kitchen, spa-like bathroom, and even a private outdoor space! I also offer mini-sessions in different locations a few times a year – I just finished up a set of boudoir sessions at the Hotel Monaco Philadelphia that I cannot wait to share!

Any final thoughts?

Don’t wait to loose the weight. Don’t tell yourself that you won’t look good. Don’t think you are too old, too young, too big, too small, too anything. Your partner loves you just the way you are, and you deserve to have images that make you feel amazing about who you are- right now. You can also do a session more than once! To me, boudoir isn’t a once in a lifetime experience. It’s falling in love with yourself, and hopefully that is something you do over and over again. We price our sessions to encourage you to come back in a few years for a birthday or anniversary! Just believe that you deserve to see yourself as the sexy and beautiful person you are and come schedule a session right now!!

Ready to see more of Amanda’s work? Follow her on Instagram at @swigerphotography / @philadelphiaboudoir, and like her on Facebook at facebook.com/swigerphotography!





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Aug 30
0

EBE Spotlight: Dan Miller

By | Blog, Spotlights

EBE’s Dan Miller:

Lighting Designer & Drummer

 

EBE is made up of a myriad of people and personalities. Throughout this series of EBE Spotlights, we’re looking past the job title and learning more about what makes our team tick. We were able to sit down with Dan Miller this week, one of EBE’s Lighting Designers & Drummers.

Dan has been in the event industry for 10 years, and has been with EBE for 8 of them. Throughout those 8 years, he has been designing and executing event lighting all over the Tri-State Area. If you catch the EBE Team setting up at an event and see someone climbing the truss to get the lights just right… you’ve probably met Dan Miller.

Dan is also an integral part of our DJ/Drum division, and you can catch him drumming at EBE events everywhere. When pairing a drummer with a DJ, you’re able to provide a live music feel while still having all of the benefits of booking a DJ! You can even add other instruments to your DJ/Drum Combo, such as an electric violinist, saxophonist, guitarist, etc. To see our DJ/Drum Duo in action, watch the video below and register for our upcoming Wedding DJ Showcase or Bar/Bat Mitzvah MC Showcase!

At our Live Band Showcases, Dan can be found in the Sound & Lighting Booth with our Audio/Visual Director, Chris Michalski. If you have ever seen one of our showcases, you can attest to the care and attention that is put into the perfect light show for each song and each band. If you have never been to one, what are you waiting for?! Check out our upcoming showcases here!

I asked Dan a series of serious & silly questions to get to know him better. Check it out below!

What genre of music is your specialty? Hip Hop & Current Top 40

What was the best event you ever worked? My personal favorite was designing and operating lights from Jimmy Van Zant, who performed a tribute for his brother Ronnie and the rest of Lynyrd Skynyrd

Who is your hero? My father

What motivates you to work hard? Knowing that you can accomplish anything if you work hard enough

What is your favorite movie? Point Break

What is your zodiac sign? Virgo

If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be? Tacos, easy.

What is your favorite thing about your career? Transforming an empty space/ballroom/event hall and creating a brand new atmosphere and vibe

If you were a superhero, what powers would you have? I would like to be able to fly

What’s the craziest thing you’ve ever done in the name of love? I once drove across 7 states to tell someone I loved them in person




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Apr 29
0

EBE Spotlight: Jonathan Harwood – Rio Bandleader

By | Blog, Spotlights | 150 Comments

This week we would like to introduce you one of our EBE Entertainment Representatives and the Band Leader for EBE Rio, Jonathan Harwood.

Jonathan is a 24-year music industry veteran who has been with EBE Events & Entertainment for 15 years.  He plays both the guitar and bass, and loves getting a crowd hyped-up while performing.

In an effort to get to know him better and discover what it is that makes him tick, we recently had the opportunity to sit down with Jonathan and interview him for this Q&A piece.

 

Q: What genre of music is your “specialty”?

A: Rock / Dance / Pop

Q: Who is your hero?

A: Pete Townshend

Q: What is your favorite movie?

A: The Highlander

Q: What is your zodiac sign?

A: Libra

Q: Do you have any skills or talents that most people don’t know about?

A: I’m a really good cook

 

Q: What is your go-to at karaoke?

A: “Slide” by the Goo-Goo Dolls

 

Q: If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?

A: Sushi

Q: If you could go back in time, what year would you travel to and why?

A: 1945, the end of WWII

 

Q: If you were a superhero, what powers would you have?

A: All of them

Q: Who would you want to play you in a movie of your life?

A: Bradley Cooper

Q: If you could join any past or present music group, which would you want to join?

A: The Who

 

Q: If you had to describe yourself as an animal, which one would it be and why?

A: A Pitbull Terrier. Because they are extremely loving and gentle, but fiercely protective.

Q: What was the best event you ever worked?

A: Union Transfer 4/26/17

 

Q: What motivates you to work hard?

A: My family

Q: What is your favorite thing about your career?

A: Getting the audience all hyped up