We’ve been working on a few ideas lately, one of which is to bring you closer to some of the most beautiful and interesting  venues in and around Philadelphia. Eclatante has been honored to create celebrations in some absolutely amazing places.  We thought that people might enjoying seeing them because most people don’t even know they exist!   

First up is Bonnet Island.   I adore this place.  It is absolutely gorgeous and presents some of the most creative opportunities we’ve ever had.   Take a look at these photos taken by the brilliant Marie Labbancz. 

Donna O’Brien of Beautiful Blooms and I teamed up on all of these — the magic created was so much fun.  Two Paper Dolls did an incredible job of creating the absolutely PERFECT printed accents pieces.   GORGEOUS!!!

Another party at Bonnet Island:

Do you have time for one more?

Not only is Bonnet Island one of the most beautiful places we’ve ever seen for a ceremony and reception, the Estate also includes eleven drop-dead gorgeous guest suites and an incredible bridal suite that will take your breath away.  

So, that’s Bonnet Island Estate.   Let us know what you think!

…has hit our doorstep.   It is a gorgeous issue —  I think one of the best ever!

It is really full of  seriously amazing eye-candy and the kind of information that anyone looking forward to a wedding, or any other kind of party, can really use.   I suggest you bring a pair of scissors with you when you get your chance to sit down with this issue.  There’s stuff in there you won’t want to throw out.

What’s more, one of my favorite wedding stories in there.   Our own Peiti and David made the glossy pages of this issue, and it’s no wonder why.  They had a beautiful American wedding, then a traditional Korean wedding at the Westin Hotel last fall, in the middle of the World Series!   

Of course, at the time everything was set up for guests’ accommodations, no one knew that our Phabulous Phillies would make it to the World Series — much less that Peiti and David’s wedding would fall on the night of what could’ve been the last game.  

With the HUGE onslaught of press and sports figures descending into Center City on their wedding day, even our planned-way-in-advance room blocks were put into jeopardy!   All of us at Eclatante spent the two days prior to Peiti & David’s wedding wedding doing everything it took to make sure that every single one of  their guests received everything that Peiti and David had planned for them.   It certainly was one of those weekends that reminded everyone why having a hands-on planner on board for your wedding can make all the difference in the world!

As you can see from these beautiful photos, all’s fabulous that ends fabulous!  FYI:   All the photos were taken by the very wonderful Laura Eaton and the team at Beautiful Blooms created some of the most innovative floral arrangements we’ve ever seen!

So, I’m not sure if it’s a coincidence or not, but in that very same issue Philadelphia Weddings asked me to provide some pointers for brides who want to be sure that the contracts they are entering into with their wedding professionals are, in fact, all that they need to be.  Some of you may know that, prior to starting Eclatante Event Design,  I practiced law as a litigator in two of the biggest firms in Philadelphia.  My practice was mainly contract law, which I find to be extremely helpful now when my clients come up against issues like Peiti & David did.   

Here’s a piece of advice for you:   Never underestimate the value of a dedicated advocate!

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Here in lovely Liberties Walk, it is not uncommon to spot a canine out for a stroll. In fact, dare I say, they are all the rage. TJ, Donna’s playful Bernese Mountain pup has even been known to make the occasional appearance in our boutique and we just love it when he does! 

As a testament to our doggie devotion we are always on the look out for a good home for Lumi, our stylish purebred Greyhound that majestically greets each visitor when they come into the boutique. Sitting 15” tall with her luminous Aluminum coat and bashful stance she’s a great addition to any home. Did I mention she’s well trained and hypoallergenic to boot? 

Please come by the Eclatante Boutique and visit her, I guarantee you’ll find her temperament to your liking. Or, if you already know she’s just right for you, give us a call at 215.925.9911 and we’ll have her sent right over! Not to worry, the UPS deliver guy adores her!