Hudson Valley Wedding Planning

Rentals

2012-02-24T20:23:00.000-05:00

Our design division is rapidly growing this year and we can't wait to share with you all that's going on! But, for now, we're just introducing our rentals! Our collection is rapidly growing! Until our full gallery is set up, here's a small preview of this 7" x 21" black beauty!

Winter Wonderland at Old Tappan Manor - Old Tappan, NJ

2012-01-24T20:24:00.002-05:00

VENDORS
WEDDING PLANNER: Lauren Paige Associates
VENUE: Old Tappan Manor
PHOTOGRAPHER: Brad Ross Photography
VIDEOGRAPHER: Reel Moments
DJ: avisso Events

UPLIGHTING: Old Tappan Manor

MAKEUP: Meredith Hayman

CIGAR ROLLERS: La Casa Grande

Happy Holidays From The LPA Team!

2011-12-17T14:47:00.000-05:00

Happy Holidays from the LPA team!

Wedding season is officially over and engagement season is upon us! We had such a busy wedding season and want to thank all of our wonderful brides! We look forward to sharing pictures and details from your beautiful weddings after the holidays season is over! We'd also like to take this time to welcome all our new brides and newly engaged couples!

Book Your 2012/13 Event at 2011 Prices!

2011-11-01T13:50:00.000-04:00

Only two months left to book your 2012/13 event with our 2011 prices!! Book partial day of, full day of, partial planning, full planning, or a totally custom package with our 2011 prices! Limited 2012 dates remain! Inquire here.

Calling All Twilight Fans: The Soon-To-Be Mrs. Cullen's Wedding Shoes!

2011-10-19T22:03:00.000-04:00

The LPA office is swooning over the sneak preview of Twilight's Bella Swan's wedding day shoes. How gorgeous!

Fall 2012 Bridal Runway

2011-10-19T14:06:00.000-04:00

BRIDES.COM is offering an exclusive sneak peek at Fall 2012 bridal dresses from your favorite designers. Check out previews from Maggie Sottero, Watters, Badgley Mischka, and more here.

P.S. Don't forget to check out our Brides listing in Hudson Valley Wedding Planners!

OBSESSED.

2011-10-14T15:28:00.000-04:00

We are obsessing over Kim Kardashian's Vera Wang veil!!!

Nicole's Wedding Invitations

2011-10-02T14:47:00.000-04:00

An Inexpensive Way To Dress Up Bland Chairs

2011-10-01T22:28:00.000-04:00

Falkirk Estate Bridal Show - Tuesday, September 13, 5:30-9

2011-09-05T20:04:00.001-04:00

Come see Lauren Paige Associates at the Falkirk Estate bridal show on Tuesday, September 13, 2011 from 5:30-9! Admission is $7 at the door, but only $5 if you register with Falkirk Estate ahead of time. Give them a call for more details. Lauren Paige Events will be offering special pricing for our full day of coordination package exclusively to those attending the bridal show, as well as a reduced deposit! See you there!

IMPORTANT NOTICE

2011-08-11T12:07:00.002-04:00

Just a reminder: our office will be CLOSED August 19-September 5. We will be returning to business as usual on Tuesday, September 6!

Congrats Jessica & Anthony

2011-07-30T22:43:00.001-04:00

It's always a little bittersweet when a full plan bride gets married. We typically start working with full plan brides starting from 10-12+ months out. It's such a fun and exciting process. We have a blast as we start from scratch, from filtering through venues and vendors, colors and fabrics, we really absorb ourselves in the bride's vision! We get to know the bride so well, and while we are counting down to the big day with so much excitement, it's always a little sad knowing the planning is over, because it was such a fun process.

At the same time, there's nothing better than watching the vision play out right in front of you. After all the planning, the getting ready, the ceremony, formalities, etc - sitting at the reception and watching the bride having the time of her life with her friends and family. The happiness that surrounds the {absolutely beautifully decorated} room is so special.

I particularly had one of these bittersweet moments today with my bride Jessica. It was always an exciting day when I saw her name on a my weeks schedule for a planning meeting, and I'm so excited to still get together with her and her family post wedding!

Her pink and tiffany blue wedding took place at the beautiful Catlin Gardens. The super talented Kim Coccagnia shot the day and I am on the edge of my seat waiting for the pro shots! I was able to get a sneak preview at the reception and WOW! I Do Movies took video and they were just fantastic. That's going to be one amazing video!

Flowers on the Porch provided the beautiful florals while The DJ Company provided music and uplighting. And we can't forget how Jessica and her girls arrived in style via a Porshe limo while Anthony and his guys arrived in an awesome Range Rover limo, both provided by Silver Star Limo.

The delicious cake {Tiffany box shaped no less!} was made by Pastry Garden and Jessica's beautiful Tiffany cardbox was made by For The Modern Bride.

Guests wrote down their "well wishes" for the bride and groom and hung the tags on a beautiful 3-foot crystal tree. Tables had a beautiful lace overlay provided by Catlin Gardens and on their Chiavari chairs we added specialty pink beaded chair caps, which looked so beautiful in the room. Custom menu's with crystal buckles adorned each place setting, tucked into a pink satin napkin. Each guest also received their own little "Tiffany Box" filled with personalized chocolates.

I was able to snap some pictures on my cell phone camera, but check back soon for Kim's pro pictures!

Congrats again Jessica and Anthony!

Congrats Erica & Tim!

2011-07-23T21:44:00.000-04:00

Check out a little sneak preview of Erica and Tim's wedding in Tarrytown, NY! Despite the horrendous heat, everyone was amazing and managed to stay outside for pictures at Lyndhurst Castle.Congrats to the beautiful couple! Can't wait to see the pro shots!

Nicole & Chris - July 1, 2011

2011-07-18T22:13:00.000-04:00

We had such a fabulous time coordinating Nicole and Chris' wedding. Nicole looked STUNNING!

The day started out with Nicole getting ready in a beautiful suite at the Crowne Plaza in White Plains. The wedding festivities kicked off with a beautiful and heartfelt ceremony at a church {with amazing views!} in Ossining, NY.

After the ceremony we arranged for a beautiful bubble exit and pictures! Guests were able to go back to the hotel to freshen up before embarking on a complimentary shuttle provided by the bride and groom to the reception at VIP Country Club in New Rochelle. The picture is a preview taken by the talented Jacob Bergmeier. Best wishes Nicole & Chris! We had so much fun working with you!

WEDDING PLANNER: Lauren Paige Associates
GETTING READY VENUE: Crowne Plaza White Plains
MAKEUP: JK Flashy
PHOTOGRAPHER: Jacob Bergmeier
FLORIST: Westchester Floral
PERSONAL TRANSPORTATION: Settembre Limo
GUEST SHUTTLE: Hudson Valley Charter Service

Jessica's Centerpiece Mockup From Flowers On The Porch

2011-07-01T19:59:00.002-04:00

Maryann from Flowers On The Porch did an amazing job with one of our full plan brides, Jessica's, centerpiece mockup! Her wedding is just around the corner at the end of this month and we can't wait! Also, check out the sneak preview of Jessica's invites here.

NEW PHONE NUMBER!

2011-06-27T18:38:00.003-04:00

Lauren Paige Associates has a new phone number. You can now reach us only at, 845-956-3368. Our email contact remains the same at events@laurenpaigeassociates.com. Thank you for your patience!

Spring Weddings: An Inspirational Look Book

2011-06-23T21:15:00.001-04:00

Although the Hudson Valley area is known for fall weddings, don't underestimate the power of spring!

Maybe there's no brown, orange, yellow, or red foliage, but bring on the blooms, not to mention the beautiful GREEN! Those beautiful mountains offer just the same elegance and are a site to see for sure!

Check out some of these beautiful spring arrangements below!

{gene higa}

{kate baker floral design}

{nancy}

{neil adams}

{richard wood}

{sheraton cerritos}

{sms photography}

{soiree floral}

{cesaro designs}

{decadence}

{elizabeth messina photography}

IMPORTANT NOTICE

2011-06-17T12:23:00.001-04:00

We will be closed this week Monday June 20 - Wed. June 22, returning Thurs June 23. All emails will be answered upon our return. If there is an emergency please call Lauren on her cell phone. If not, we will be returning all emails and calls on Thursday, June 23. Thank you!

Q's For Lauren: Part I

2011-06-10T21:02:00.002-04:00

Thank you for your submissions! Lauren received so many great questions from brides to be! This will be an ongoing thing, so please continue to send them our way! Now, onto the first part of questions!

Q: What should no wedding be without?
Lauren: Uplighting. Fabulous uplighting really sets an average wedding apart from a grande wedding. Lighting transforms a space like nothing else.

Q: If you could give one piece of advice to a newly engaged couple to prepare them for wedding planning, what would it be?
A: Set a budget. Wedding planning will be THAT much easier if you have a pre-determined budget. Your wedding planner will let you know what should be spent in each category, and ensure that you don't go over, but you as a couple should come up with a number, even if it's a range. Couples who have an idea of how much they are willing to spend are less likely to have huge arguments along the way.

Q: What made you want to become a wedding planner?
A: It's so rewarding. Planning the perfect event not only involves a ton of attention to detail and countless hours planning, but it also involves spending money, and a lot of it. There are limited times in one's life where a person needs to shell out this much cash for one thing {car, house, college, wedding, etc}. I get the need to want the most for your money, and at the same time I get the need for quality. I love helping brides. The need for the day to go well, the need for perfection, the need to see what you picture play out, I love it. And, I love helping brides achieve it.

I love bringing visions to life. To see what starts with coming up with ideas alongside brides, to bringing them out on paper, to then seeing the vision live, right in front of you day of is one of the best feelings ever. I love seeing happy couples. It's THE most special day of their lives, and I helped make it beautiful and stress-free. What could be better?

Q: Why weddings and not other events?
A: Corporate-type events are fun, and as long as you're in budget you have a lot of free reign, but they're not personal. I love working with brides and weddings because it's such a personal event. And yes, planning a corporate event is SO different than planning a wedding or social event. Just because you've been successful planning one, doesn't mean you'll be good planning the other.

Q: What advice would you give to aspiring wedding planners?

A: It's not nearly as glamorous as it looks on TV or in magazines. You have to have a special type of personality and a real passion for the job to be a planner. It's a no judging zone. The word bridezilla doesn't exist in a planners vocabulary. The brides vision of the day becomes your vision. You're working for her and need to make it happen and her happy. Planning is a lot of work. Day of is especially a lot of work, you're talking 14+ hour days. My advice is to intern at a planning agency before making a commitment to the field. If this is something you're prepared for, and you're ready to go into the planning world full force, have fun with it! You get to meet so many amazing people and if you love your job you're going to do an amazing job!

A Personal Wedding: Michelle & CJ

2011-06-06T22:11:00.000-04:00

My dear friend Michelle got married the end of May and I had the pleasure of taking part in her wedding. I haven't been on the other side of a wedding in forever. Standing up at the alter with the bride and groom. Not working the wedding, not checking lists, not looking through contracts, not making timelines, but instead getting my hair and makeup done, posing for pictures, being introduced at the reception, etc.

While there was a small hiccup with the florist that I couldn't help myself but take care of it for her {what can I say, I'm a wedding planner at heart}, it was so surreal to not be working the wedding and instead taking part in the wedding.

The very talented Hoffer Photography shot the day. Here's some pictures of the beautiful couple. Congrats Michelle & CJ!

Twilight Craze: The Wedding Invitation

2011-06-06T21:58:00.002-04:00

Beautiful Winery Weddings

2011-06-01T12:48:00.000-04:00

{credit: elizabeth messina}

{credit: michelle haynes}

{credit: mike larson}

{credit: richard woods}

{credit: verite}

Wedding Product Love: Megan Hamilton

2011-05-26T21:22:00.000-04:00

Hello my beautiful brides!

I've been taking a quick look at all the questions you have submitted and I'm having so much fun typing up my responses! I decided to cheat and answer one early :)

I've been asked by a few brides what my favorite wedding keepsake is. And that is my wedding gown sketch! The sketch was drawn by the very talented Megan Hamilton. She does such beautiful work and is available nationwide via her Etsy store here.

Here's the sketch of my wedding dress. *memories!*

Now framed, it resides in my home office, a great, personal piece of artwork!

Q&A With Lauren!

2011-05-19T21:21:00.000-04:00

Attention Brides: Submit your questions! We're working on doing Q&A posts with Lauren starting next week! Ask your need-to-know questions by emailing them to us at events@laurenpaigeassociates.com with the subject line "Q's For Lauren." We'll send the best questions Lauren's way! Then, keep checking back for her answers! So come on brides! Submit away! We can't wait to hear from you!

We're Live On Style Me Pretty!

2011-05-17T16:02:00.002-04:00

Check out our listing: http://www.stylemepretty.com/little-black-book/new-york/hudson-valley/event-planning

Calling All Flower Lovers!

2011-05-09T14:36:00.000-04:00

The New York Botanical Gardens, catered by Abigail Kirsch, is such a beautiful location for a wedding! This weekend we scouted the location and checked out the amazing florals. So pretty!

Someone Came To Help Plan Weddings Today!!!

2011-05-05T13:00:00.000-04:00

Couture Invitation Trend Alert!

2011-05-05T10:00:00.003-04:00

Nothing sets the tone of your event quite like your invitations. Before the dress, before the space, before the flowers, your invitations are the very first thing your guests see. They act as a small sneak preview as to what can be expected at the wedding.

We're always on the search for your above average custom invitation. And these absolutely blow most invites out of the water. Let's face it. 95% of the time, at the end of the day, the invitation ends up in the garbage. But what about that 5%? Well, those are reserved for the amazing, super unique invitation that's just too pretty to toss. That invite is saved. Saved to show people, to hold as a keepsake, to use as inspiration, "One day, I want invitations like these."

The invitations I'm about to show you totally fall under that 5% elite category. Picture this: Imagine receiving an invitation that's set inside a beautiful silk box...adorn with embellishments. Swoon! Aside from beautiful, their practicality shines through. Why wouldn't you save this? Oh how beautiful it would look on display in your home {or used store items in}!

Have a look at these amazing silk boxed invites made by Revelry Invitations.

Next Week We'll Be Live on Style Me Pretty!

2011-05-04T17:40:00.000-04:00

We're buzzing! Lauren just got off the phone with Style Me Pretty and we're so excited to announce that as of next week, we'll be listed as one of their Little Black Book Vendors! Check out the amazing Style Me Pretty website, here. Thanks Style Me Pretty, we're so excited to join your book of best vendors!

Veil: The Technical Terms

2011-05-04T15:00:00.001-04:00

Check out this great image we found that shows the different types of veil lengths. Now, as you're trying on those gorgeous dresses you'll know exactly which veil you want the saleslady to bring out for you!

A Busy Day In Our Wedding World

2011-05-03T19:20:00.001-04:00

One question I get asked frequently is what's a day in your life like? And I have to admit, my days are a blast! For example, today was one of those meeting days, where my schedule was jam-packed with appointment after appointment.

This morning I headed off to the beautiful Falkirk Estate & Country Club to meet with one of my brides and some vendors!

Excuse the cell phone pictures. But seriously, how beautiful!

At Falkirk we met with the oh-so-talented Steven Bruce Design team so they could do a walk through of the space. We also got a sneak preview of Falkirk's new dishes - um, beautiful! What's especially amazing is how well they happen to match our color scheme and the linens we chose {wait 'til you see them! Drop. Dead. Gorgeous.}. Later, we met Ryan aka, the mastermind behind The DJ Company to discuss lighting in the ballroom.

And here's the cute couple!

P.S. The groom-to-be, Erik, is an amazing chiropractor, be sure to check out Innate Chiropractic in Newburgh!

After my fun morning with Dana and Erik it was off to a design meeting with bride Jessica, oh and hand deliver her beautiful invitations! Job perk #743; we met at Woodbury Commons and shopping did ensue after the meeting.

Jessica and I had such a successful meeting. From linens to decor, and even down to the crystal wishing tree that will act as her guestbook for her upcoming July wedding! Guests will write their well wishes to the bride and groom on a beautiful linen square of cardstock and hang it on the tree via the attached pink satin ribbon. Jessica will take the cards home and put them in a beautiful scrapbook keepsake!

We're looking forward to seeing her centerpiece mockup from Flowers On The Porch later this month!

Final meeting of the day was next week's bride Cara. We can't wait for her vineyard wedding! You know you've done a good job when the bride has no worries in the world and is just so excited! We're super excited too, Cara!

So there you have it. A day in the life of a wedding planner!

Caring For Your Engagement Ring

2011-05-02T15:37:00.000-04:00

As usual, the first thing we do here on Monday mornings is 1) check our voicemail, followed by 2) check our email. In our inbox this morning was a great article from Wedding Channel on how to care for your engagement ring. Here are the highlights:

Take It Off. Believe it or not, caring for your ring occasionally means taking it off, such as during the following activities:

Playing sports. Holding a tennis racket tightly is particularly not good for a wedding band which has stones going all the way around -- especially if you're left-handed. As for taking your ring to the gym, lifting weights with it on can also be hazardous. You wouldn't want a 25-pound dumbbell making contact with your stone.

Gardening. It is possible to chip your diamond or knock the setting loose while doing heavy yard work.

Cleaning. Harsh chemical soaps or cleansers can soil the ring. It's also a good idea not to wear your ring while doing the dishes.

Safekeeping. If you'll be taking your ring off to do the activities above, make sure you have a safe -- and memorable -- place to put it. Diamonds should be stored in their own separate box, pouch or jewelry compartment because they can scratch other pieces of jewelry.

Keep It Free From Lotion, Sunscreen, and Perfume. These products can gunk up your diamond, and even etch colored gemstones. It's a good idea to take your ring off before you put these things on.

Have Your Setting Checked Regularly. Most jewelers recommend you have your setting checked every six months to make sure the stone hasn't been knocked loose, especially if it is particularly large.

Don't Swim In The Ocean. Cold water may shrink your fingers just enough to loosen the ring from your finger, and if you lose it in the deep blue sea, you won't be seeing it again. If you must, you may swim in a swimming pool with your ring -- at least the pool can be drained if it slips off your finger. Note, however, that while platinum can withstand virtually any chemical, experts advise not to expose gold or silver rings to the harsh chemicals found in swimming pools and spas -- the bands can become severely discolored over time.

Be Careful In The Kitchen. Cookie dough, turkey loaf, a piecrust… it's great to mix with your fingers. But these foods can leave a film on your ring and really affect its luster.

Keep It Clean. Most jewelers will clean your ring free of charge, so take advantage of this courtesy. If you don't have time to get to the jewelry store, there are a few ways to clean your ring at home.

Insure Your Ring. God forbid that anything should happen to your ring -- we all know it's irreplaceable. However, it's important to have insurance just in case. Most insurance companies will include your ring under your homeowner's insurance, although you can always insure it separately if you wish.

Thanks For Coming Out Today!

2011-04-30T22:25:00.000-04:00

We had so much fun at Beacon Barks! It was so awesome meeting and seeing both community members, their dogs, and some of our wonderful brides who stopped by. We even ran into a past bride which was so fun! It was great seeing you Siobhan! We were so happy to take part in this special event! Thanks for stopping by our table and we hope you enjoyed our candy boxes!

Buying The Right Size Linen

2011-04-28T16:00:00.000-04:00

There's nothing more beautiful than a perfect reception table, well, aside from the bride. To avoid an eyesore, do yourself a favor and order the right size linen. The size of the table is not the size of the linen you order, unless you want the legs to show {ew}! Don't worry my dear bride, we've made a quick go-to guide to help you out! As always, we welcome questions from our wonderful LPA brides. If you need help ordering your linens, ask!

Jessica's pink & Tiffany Blue Invitations - Sneak Peek!

2011-04-27T16:15:00.002-04:00

We are having such a blast helping our July bride, Jessica, plan her pink and tiffany blue wedding. Her invites came in today and we have a special preview! We can't wait to show her the full invitation set next week! Pictures to come, after she see's the final product first of course!!

Wendy's Engagement Pictures Are In!

2011-04-27T15:00:00.001-04:00

One of our October brides just got her amazing engagement pictures back, photographed by Digital Weddings. Yet another awesome job done, guys! Some of our favorites are below! We can't wait for your big day, Wendy!

All images are copyright Digital Weddings.

Hiring A Photographer: Questions To Ask

2011-04-26T15:37:00.000-04:00

One of the most important vendors you will hire is your photographer. At the end of the day, when all is said and done, your pictures are what you have to remember your special day. While all your vendors are important and have an active role in making the day look beautiful and run smoothly, your pictures are the tangible thing you have treasure and keep forever. So they need to be perfect.

Below are some helpful questions to ask when interviewing different photographers:

- What is your style of photography (journalistic vs. posed)?
- Approx. how many images can I expect to receive?
- Do you do any image retouching/editing?
- Do I get a choice of color vs. black and white, etc?
- Do you bring your own lighting?
- Do you bring backup equipment?
- What type of clothing will you wear (ex, ensure won't be showing up to a formal affair in jeans)?
- Will you be the one photographing day of?
- Do you bring an assistant? Does he/she just carry your things around or do they take pictures?
- How many hours are included in the package?
- What is your overtime fee?
- How soon after the wedding do I get the proofs?
- Will the proofs be posted online? Mailed to me? Or both? Will they be digital or printed?
- Is an album included?
- What are my album choices?
- How many weddings do you book per day/per weekend?
- Do I get all my images on a hi-res disc?
- Who owns the copyright to the images?
- Are you willing to follow any specific shots I request?
- Do you stand by your quoted fees upon hiring for products purchased after the wedding?
-Will you visit my photo locations if you have not shot there before to scope out locations?
- Who obtains any photography guidelines from my religious institution/venue?
- What is the deposit?
- What is your cancellation policy?
- What is your backup plan should an emergency arise?
- When is the balance due?

While photographers showcase their amazing work on their websites and blogs, it's beneficial for you to ask to see a full wedding they've shot. That way, you can get a better idea of what you will receive for your own wedding.

Have fun!

Beacon Barks Is This Weekend!

2011-04-25T17:01:00.001-04:00

Lauren Paige Associates is thrilled to be participating in this years Beacon Barks! Come visit our booth and support a good cause THIS WEEKEND! We'll be hosting a small candy buffet and Lauren's even bringing her two adorable yorkies! Come meet them!

WHEN: Sat. April 30, 2011; 11-3!

To learn more about the animal shelter appreciation day and street festival, click here.

A Tale Of The Escort Card & The Place Card

2011-04-24T21:30:00.000-04:00

One of the most common wedding mix ups are the escort card and the place card. An escort card and a place card are not two terms for the same thing. They mean different things. If you don't know the difference, don't worry, we're going to set the story straight. You'll never mix the two up again. :)

The Escort Card
The table you typically see when you first walk into cocktail hour is called an escort card table, not a place card table. The escort card tells the guest what table they're assigned to.

The Place Card
A place card is a card that shows the guest their exact seat. Most weddings only have escort cards, while some weddings also include a places card at the actual tables, which again, tells the guest which seat at the table is theirs.

So, let's recap... escort card = table assignment; place card = actual seat assignment. Get it?

Inspiration: Mix {but don't match}

2011-04-22T16:24:00.000-04:00

{check out the mixture of square and round vases in the above arrangement}

Be risky, even if you're a traditional bride! Yep, we said it. {insert your gasps here}! Sure, it's typical for a non-traditional bride to mix things up, in fact, it's expected. But, we find 95% of the time, traditional brides are scared to express themselves when it comes to decor. It's okay ladies, there's nothing to be afraid of! Nowhere does it say if you're traditional you can't still experiment with colors and shapes. It's not all about having matching table arrangements anymore. Adding a little bit of drama to your tables is a good thing! Be bold, mix heights and shapes on the same table - square, round, rectangle, bring it all together! Okay, so maybe this is too much at once for my traditional bride. Let's take it slow, just take a look at what we're talking about.

Check out this arrangement. Rather than putting this arrangement in a bland, clear vase, the texture vase makes all the difference by adding just the right touch of drama.

{myweddingblooms}

Vases come in so many different shapes, sizes, and textures, so don't be afraid to explore! When you're deciding on decor, experiment with your wedding planner. It's okay to tell them you don't like something, but at least you know you've moved out of your box, even if it was just for a little bit, and tried.

{Fleurs de France}

{seven degrees}

If you're stuck on your plain, clear vase, how about wrapping it?

{KLK Photography}

Check out some more unique vases below:

Don't be afraid. Jump!

Wendy's Centerpiece Mockup: Lee Vazquez Floral Design

2011-04-20T15:46:00.005-04:00

Lady Bug Lee did it again! Check out this unique and beautiful centerpiece mock-up Lee designed for one of our upcoming fall brides! It's so beautiful, great job, Lee!

Hudson Valley Makeup Artist Showcase - Makeup Du Jour

2011-04-17T14:45:00.002-04:00

For over 20 years Hudson Valley Makeup Artist Susan Othitis of Makeup Du Jour has been making brides look beautiful on their special day! She's one of our favorite makeup artists!!! Susan travels to you for pampering day of. Check out some of her recent brides:

Color Me Rose Garden

2011-04-12T13:41:00.000-04:00

For all our texture loving brides out there, introducing the new Rose Garden Taffeta Tablecloth {also available in overlay}.

{Cloth Connection}

Available in the following colors:

Pardon Our Dust

2011-04-10T19:45:00.004-04:00

Lauren Paige Associates is undergoing some super exciting changes in the upcoming weeks/months - we're expanding our services and the company is growing! The changes are happening over time since our number one priority are our clients and planning all of your fabulous weddings! So, as you visit our websites, blog, facebook pages, and more, please pardon our dust and thank you for bearing with us!

Flowers On The Porch Launches New Website!

2011-04-08T19:50:00.001-04:00

{photo by Ulysses Photography}

Our friends at Flowers On The Porch just launched their new website, and it's utterly fabulous! Maryann does such beautiful work! Be sure to check out their new site, here!

Come See Us At Beacon Barks!

2011-04-05T22:30:00.000-04:00

Lauren Paige Associates is thrilled to be participating in this years Beacon Barks! Come visit our booth and support a good cause!

WHEN: Sat. April 30, 2011; 11-3!

To learn more about the animal shelter appreciation day and street festival, click here.

Congrats Jewel & Richard!

2011-04-05T21:52:00.002-04:00

WEDDING PLANNER: Lauren Paige Associates
VENUE: Anthony's Pier 9
PHOTOGRAPHER: Allan Levine Photography
DJ: Big Apple Entertainment
FLORIST: Floral Bliss
UPLIGHTING: Hourglass

CAKE: Pastry Garden

Megan & Adam's Locust Grove Wedding - Poughkeepsie, NY

2011-03-20T20:17:00.004-04:00

VENDORS
WEDDING PLANNER: Lauren Paige Associates
VENUE: Locust Grove
PHOTOGRAPHER: Digital Weddings
DJ: Soundsational Entertainment
FLORIST: Flowers on the Porch
MAKEUP: Makeup Du Jour
LINENS: Cloth Connection

2011 WeddingWire Bride's Choice Awards!

2011-02-19T17:47:00.000-05:00

We won the Bride's Choice Awards 2011 from WeddingWire! This means we are in the top 5 percent of Wedding Pros nationwide.

Check out our latest ad on TheKnot.com!

2010-12-18T15:58:00.005-05:00

Hey LPA brides and fans! Check out our latest ad on TheKnot.com in the Hudson Valley, NY section! Be sure to tell your friends about it!

Our dates are almost full so hurry up and grab your date before our offer ends 12/31/10! Book any 2011 or 2012 wedding at our 2010 prices!!!!

We WILL be open and booking brides through the Christmas and New Years Eve weeks!

A Bronx Zoo Wedding

2010-09-10T19:41:00.006-04:00

We had such an amazing time coordinating Siobhon and Matt's wedding at the Bronx Zoo, what a fabulous venue to host your wedding!

Look who made an appearance at the ceremony!

Cocktail hour was held in the Madagaskar exhibit.

Just look how uplighting transforms a space!

BEFORE:

AFTER:

VENDORS
WEDDING PLANNER: Lauren Paige Associates
VENUE: Bronx Zoo
PHOTOGRAPHER: Lisa Forman
DJ: The DJ Company
UPLIGHTING: The DJ Company
FLORIST: Bed Of Roses
LINENS: BBJ
PHOTOBOOTH: Party Booths

Terri & Andrew at the Nyack Seaport - July 31, 2010

2010-08-30T13:39:00.031-04:00

Terri was one of our sweetest brides ever. Her and Andrew are such an adorable couple. Their reception was SUCH a blast! Every single guest was on the dance floor having an amazing time. Terri took on a ton of do it yourself projects and she is so talented! Best wishes to the bride and groom!

WEDDING PLANNER: Lauren Paige Associates

VENUE: The Nyack Seaport

MAKEUP: Color Makeup Studio

PHOTOGRAPHER: Allan Levine Photography

VIDEOGRAPHER: Halo Video

DJ: DJ Bri Swatek

FLORIST: Lee Vazquez Floral Design

LIGHTING: The DJ Company

Terri & Andrew Celebrate At The Nyack Seaport

2010-08-10T20:48:00.001-04:00

VENDORS
WEDDING PLANNER: Lauren Paige Associates
VENUE: The Nyack Seaport
PHOTOGRAPHER: Allan Levine Photography
DJ: DJ Bri Swatek
UPLIGHTING: The DJ CompanyFLORIST: Lee Vazquez Floral Design
MAKEUP: Color Makeup Studio

Thanks For Coming!

2010-07-26T20:43:00.001-04:00

Thank you to all the brides who came out to see our booth this past Sunday at Macy's in Middletown for their bridal event. Thanks to those who booked us and we can't wait to work with you!

Come Visit Us!

2010-07-20T17:10:00.003-04:00

Lauren Paige Associates will be at the Middletown Macy's participating in their bridal event this Sunday, July 25 starting at 11am! Win a crystal monogram cake topper, and get in on our day of coordination special and reduced booking deposit! Come stop by!

Maggie Sottero Fall 2010 Collection

2010-06-01T14:18:00.003-04:00

Maybe I'm slightly biased because I myself was a Maggie bride, but Maggie Sottero dresses are my absolutely favorite. And for those of you who are still searching for a dress {or those of you like myself who love looking}, check out the new 2010 Fall Collection.

Colorful Wedding Veils?

2010-05-20T12:59:00.000-04:00

We've seen the bright colored wedding shoe trend catch on like crazy, are veils next?

{Image from Wedding Chicks/Trent Photography}

Featured in the Chicago Tribune!

2010-04-26T18:54:00.000-04:00

Hi brides {and grooms!} ... last April {1 year ago today!} Lauren Paige Associates was quoted in the Chicago Tribune in the article, "Cheaper Ways To Put On A Wedding". You can read the full article here, or copy and pasted below!

Getting started

Cheaper ways to put on a wedding

How you can cut costs while keeping it a special day

April 26, 2009|By Carolyn Bigda

Weddings are expensive. Although formal data on the cost of saying "I do" is scarce, the cost often is $20,000 or more.

The Bridal Association of America, for example, estimates that in 2009, weddings will cost an average $30,860.

If you're a bride- or groom-to-be, those numbers can seem especially scary in a recession. According to a survey in March by wedding Web site TheKnot.com, 40 percent of brides said they have trimmed their wedding budgets, by an average of 16 percent.

But if you're looking to cut back, where do you get the biggest bang for your buck? After all, there are lots of expenses you can eliminate, from the chocolate fondue bar to themed wedding favors. Here are five ways to save recommended by wedding planners:

*Cut the guest list

One way to reduce wedding costs is to invite fewer people. The tab per person easily will make up half of your budget, said Ali Phillips, owner of Engaging Events by Ali in Chicago.

"Looking at your guest list is really important," she said.

A smaller guest list not only saves you on food and beverage costs, but also reduces the number of tables and chairs, centerpieces and favors you'll need. Even your wedding cake, which generally runs $5 to $8 per person, will be cheaper. The snowball effect is substantial.

*Get hitched in the morning

Hosting a wedding reception during the morning or afternoon can significantly reduce the cost you spend per person, a good alternative if you can't bring yourself to cut the guest list.

"You'll save almost 25 percent to 30 percent of your food and beverage budget," Phillips said, who notes that she has seen a trend toward luncheon weddings lately.

In addition, many venues charge a lower fee for daytime receptions. In Chicago, for example, the venue fee for an evening wedding ranges from $4,000 to $8,000, said Marcia Hemphill, president of An Urban Affair in Chicago.

Because daytime weddings typically are shorter in length -- four hours compared with six to eight hours at night -- you may pay half the price.

*Change venues

You also can save if you skip traditional spaces, such as a hotel ballroom, and host your reception at a restaurant, Hemphill said.

She said that venues such as a local restaurant tend to be more flexible and may be willing to negotiate deals. "There's not as much red tape," she said.

*Make your own wedding album

Wedding planners say a good photographer is worth the money. But instead of paying one $800 or more to create an album for you, opt to make the album yourself.

"Have your photographer put all your wedding images on a hi-res disc," Lauren Paige, founder of Lauren Paige Associates in Middletown, N.Y., wrote in an e-mail.

"There are many places online where you can get a professional-looking wedding album or print your images for less."

You also could negotiate with your photographer and ask to have an album, say, a year after the wedding, when your pocketbook has had time to recover.

*Get creative

Even after the biggest expenses are pared down, wedding planners say there are myriad other ways to cut your budget:

On flowers, ask your florist which flowers will be in season at the time of your wedding. Flowers that are in-season cost less.

When it comes to wedding gowns, it's possible to find designer gowns for a fraction of retail price if you shop strategically.

For example, some bridal shops sell off-the-rack dresses, many of which are discontinued samples or overstock from designers, bringing down the price. (Off-the-rack means you purchase the gown at the store, rather than order it from a catalog.)

Finally, does etiquette require that you send your guests home with a favor at the end of the night?

"Not at all," Phillips said. "That's a tradition we've all created. It's perfectly fine to do without."

2010-04-10T15:53:00.002-04:00

2010-04-10T15:15:00.003-04:00

Attention All Priscilla Of Boston Lovers

2010-03-18T19:40:00.002-04:00

Priscilla of Boston is having their couture event now through March 31! During this event brides will receive 10% off the Priscilla of Boston, Platinum, and Melissa Sweet Couture Bridal Gown collections! Visit Priscillaofboston.com for official details!

Ballet Inspired Wedding Gowns

2010-03-11T13:48:00.002-05:00

Check out the article on the Martha Stewart Weddings website, or click here.

THANK YOU!

2010-02-26T22:08:00.002-05:00

I hope you all are doing well in this crazy snow! We recently have been receiving a lot of inquires based on past {and current} brides who have been referring us to new brides. We want to extend our sincere gratitude to you!!!! We loved making your day so special {and to current brides are looking forward to making your amazing} and thank you so much for your heartfelt recommendations. We wish you all the best!!!!!!

Wear a million dollars worth of jewelry on your wedding day!

2010-02-08T20:51:00.003-05:00

So maybe you can't afford jewelry that's worth millions on your special day, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't be wearing it! Adorn has developed this awesome idea -- renting gorgeous, real, amazing, jewelry to brides. In ingenious really! Who wants to pay that much for something they are going to wear for only one day? Why not have it for pictures and then simply give it back?

Head to adorn.com to browse through their gorgeous bling and see if renting jewelry for your big day may work for you!
* Photo Credit: Adorn

Kleinfeld Blow Out Sale!

2010-01-29T22:07:00.003-05:00

Picking out your wedding dress is one of the most fun aspects in planning your wedding. And what better place to pick out your dream dress than at Kleinfelds in NYC?! Think you can't afford a gorgeous Pnina Tornai or stunning Monique Lhuillier gown? Think again! Kleinfelds is having one of their huge sales on February 2nd! Hurry up and grab your gown at an amazing discounted price. Click here for more details.

A Wedding At The Surf Club - New Rochelle

2009-12-20T21:31:00.003-05:00

VENDORS
WEDDING PLANNER: Lauren Paige Associates
VENUE: The Surf Club
PHOTOGRAPHER: Autumn Photography
FLORIST: Westchester Floral

Honeymoon Hotspot Deal!

2009-11-04T12:29:00.003-05:00

CasaMagna Marriott Cancun Resort

Travel through December 23 and pay only $69 per night (reg. $249), plus receive a free upgrade to an Oceanview Room!

To book call 888-236-2427 and ask for promo code TZOD at the CasaMagna Marriott Cancun Resort. Book by Nov. 9. Or book online at Marriott.com and enter promo code TZO.

*Blackout dates: Nov. 5-7, 11-14, 20-22, 29-30; Dec. 1-2

Macy's Charity Day

2009-11-03T13:11:00.003-05:00

Lauren Paige Associates attended Macy's Annual Charity Day once again this year and had a fabulous time. Two of our absolute favorite vendors, Susan {from Makeup Du Jour} and Maryann {from Flowers on the Porch} joined us as we met some wonderful bride-to-be's!

Vera Wang Spring 2010 Collection

2009-11-03T13:11:00.002-05:00

Vera Wang released her Spring 2010 Gown Collection at www.verawangonweddings.com!

{Images from www.verawangonweddings.com}

Elizabeth & Tom's Clean & Classic Wedding - Poughkeepsie, NY

2009-10-30T21:31:00.003-04:00

VENDORS
WEDDING PLANNER: Lauren Paige Associates
VENUE: Locust Grove
PHOTOGRAPHER: Matt Petricone Photography
DJ: Soundsational Entertainment
FLORIST: Elderberry Design

Celebrity Wedding Stationary Spotlight

2009-07-01T20:02:00.001-04:00

Ashlee Simpson and Pete Wentz took wedding stationary to the next level for their nuptials. Their "Alice In Wonderland" theme was carried throughout and done in a beyond gorgeous way. All their stationary was designed by celebrity stationary designer Lehr and Black.

{Save The Date}

{Table Number}

{Menu}

A Hunter Mountain Resort Wedding

2008-10-30T20:17:00.018-04:00

VENDORS

WEDDING PLANNER: Lauren Paige Associates
VENUE: Hunter Mountain Resort
PHOTOGRAPHER: Chenergy
FLORIST: Foxglove Floral
BAKERY: Dawn's Bakery
MAKEUP: Makeup Du Jour
LINENS: Cloth Connection

Grace & Michael at the Glen Island Harbour Club - Westchester

2008-06-26T21:41:00.003-04:00

VENDORS
WEDDING PLANNER: Lauren Paige Associates
VENUE: Glen Island Harbour Club
PHOTOGRAPHER: Ulysses Photography
FLORIST: Arcadia Floral