Congrats to Steven Petrow on the release of his “Complete Gay and Lesbian Manners for any Occasion” book. I was his resource for all the wedding related subjects. Thanks for the shout in the acknowledgments section. The book looks great. Something the community really needed. Am proud to be part of the book. 
I get asked alot as to why I am have never been on any of the Wedding Reality TV Shows. So thought this was a good time to answer that question. Yesterday I declined which now makes my 5th offer to be on a Reality Show. First off, the first question they ask is, “Have you seen our show?” I answer no, usually. As the last thing I really want to watch is something wedding after a long day/week planning the fabulous weddings I produce for my incredible clients. (Give me Housewives of anywhere, Modern Family, Glee and All My Children please). Some of them have asked for me to make things happen so there is “drama”. Sorry, I am not going to ruin my clients wedding for the sake of their TV ratings. Also, I feel a wedding shouldn’t be disprupted with extra lighting for TV, Cameras on Booms and extra cameras, and producers telling me and the client how they want it done. To me a wedding should be a personal experience of a major life event for two famlies. Yes, I would get some exposure from it (but again, is it the way I want to be shown on TV is my first thought) but my priority are my clients, not me. One producer told me that I don’t make for Good TV. Hmm. 20/20 didnt think so.. The Early Show didnt think so.. or any of the local TV stations here in Chicago. When I have watched some of these (Platinum Weddings excluded, was offered this But my cleintele really don’t want what they spent on the wedding plastered on the TV, this is one that I do enjoy) my mouth drops, and I just think “how sad”. I cannot believe people go on TV like this let alone on their wedding day. Yet, alot of this can be entertaining to alot of people. 
Some of the many ideas for twists on Escort Card Tables are featured on Special Event Magazines Website.. Enjoy!
Just spent two long but productive days walking the aisles of the 2011 National Stationery Show in New York. The shift I am seeing is a very tradtional look, with embellishments. Ribbon and rhinestone buckles on invitaitons were something I saw alot of. Also, laser cut outs on the invitations were a new trend. Cards are having a real retro look. I have some fun cards and seals for the back on invitations coming in as well. These are inspired by wrapping paper and images from cards and dress patterns of the 40′s 50s and 60s. (and couldnt resist the 80s couple as well!)
I am happy to report that I have added two lines to the Frank Event Design invitiation Collection. First 2 albums by Emily Post weddings. (see photos below). These albums are all about versatility. Also I loved the laser cut embellsihments, giving a twist on traditon. Also added was a fun line by Stevie Streck. These invations are all die cut and fun! For those who want to stray away from tradition, this is a way to really make a statement when your guest recieves the invitation.
It was also great to reconnect with Millie Martini-Bratten, the editor in chief of Brides magazine. I have met Millie on dozens of occasions. I quickly showed her my Wedding on Ice on my phone, and she asked for more info and photos.. fingers crossed. It was tiring but really productive trip. It was the first time in my life I went to New York and did not get to see a Broadway show! But duty called…………..
Nice quote in the Trib today about Princess Kate’s Gown. reminds me, need to order my Kate Bride doll. http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/northnorthwest/ct-x-n-princess-kate-doll-20110518,0,1321064.story
Can’t wait to work these into my Event Designs. My wheels are already spinning! 
Great party last night the JW Marriott. Was thrilled to be on the invite list. 
WGN – Bill_leff_0428_12 I chatted with WGN’s Bill Leff the day before the Royal Wedding. What a fun conversation. He asked me about my predicitons and we had some fun gossip about the Royals.. Enjoy. Click the above link to hear the interview.