Monday, February 20, 2012
We all like to eat—love of food is something that each of your wedding guests will share. A meal brings us together, much like a wedding itself, polished with a careful balance of uniqueness and tradition, two things catering boutique Down South Delights takes pride in.
Food is tasty but a large budget item. More times than not, it will be your largest wedding expense. As such, it impacts many areas of your wedding, from your budget to your guests' experience. Last week I spoke with Rita Rowland from Down South Delights and learned just how it impacts a wedding day in a variety of ways. Food offers something beautiful to your special day, but there are a few things you need to know, and there’s no better lady to tell you than Rita!
What should a couple factor into their wedding planning timeline from a catering perspective?
Yes, in terms of timeline, I always advise brides to first look at the most competitive dates. May, June, September, and October are prime wedding months, so if your wedding is going to fall within this slot, you need to find a caterer immediately after your venue is booked. When you book a venue, you will have a list of caterers that venue allows on the property. So even when you’re in the midst of finding a venue, if there’s a caterer you really want, you must make sure your desired venue is connected with that specific caterer.
What about budget? How does catering impact a wedding budget?
It’s important from the beginning that you share your budget with the catering company of your choice. The company you choose, along with the type of food as well as the amount of food determines how much of your budget will be devoted to catering. Don’t feel like you have to choose the most inexpensive option. Catering is something you can be selective about; you get what you pay for, and food is something your guests will remember. Venue and catering require the main chunk of a wedding’s budget for most brides.
Tasting Plates: (left) blanched green beans, red pepper hummus, artichoke chutney, lemon, cilantro, basil chiffonade, steamed potato dumpling, and (right) seared shrimp with cranberry chutney served on a bed of tri color sushi wraps.
How important is location when it comes to catering?
Look for a venue that has an area appropriate for catering—a spot that can be sanctioned off so that food preparation isn’t in the way of anything, preferably with the option of running water. If a venue doesn’t have this, the budget can be significantly stretched, especially when it comes to elaborate dinners, because you’re paying additional fees to create a proactive system for the food to be prepared and served. Also, thoroughly read every document you’re presented regarding venue and catering. Some places do all-inclusive pricing, while others require gratuity.
How does a couple's guest count influence on catering?
When finding a caterer, the couple needs to have an estimate of how many guests will attend their wedding. Down South Delights, for instance, typically requests a range, such as 150-200 people. This also impacts your budget, because oftentimes with caterers, the price per person decreases the higher the guest count climbs. Furthermore, some caterers aren’t capable of serving an enormous number of people, which could narrow your options if you’re planning on a ton of guests.
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Sweet potato biscuits filled with Virginia baked ham.
Does wedding style influence catering decisions?
Yes, absolutely, especially in regards to dinner versus hors d'oeuvres depending on what you prefer. Many people think hors d'oeuvres are always cheaper than having a dinner, which isn’t necessarily the case. In my experience, dinner is actually more cost-efficient, because hors d'oeuvres typically require more hands-on detail. With that being said, it’s important that you let your guests know what style of dining is included at your reception. Timing is everything. If the hour of the day leads your guests to expecting dinner, but they attend your reception only to discover a small amount of food, they’ll likely leave earlier than originally planned. You don’t want your guests to leave simply because they’re hungry. Really examine how long your guests will be involved in your day, and know that certain elements of a reception prolong the celebration, the main aspect being a bar. With a bar, you’re not only expecting guests to be there for hours, but you’re also establishing that there will be plenty of food. The bar option must mean plenty of food as well.
Drink buffet at a rehearsal dinner - photo by Dan Roberts.
Do you find that special diets influence catering?
Yes, this is increasingly becoming a major issue. I always tell brides never to change their menu for only a few. Simply have something special prepared. On the other hand, if half the guest list is vegetarian, you may want to look into making this the base of your menu. Most caterers, however, will accommodate your need and have something available for the specific diets present.
Do rising food costs impact catering?
Typically, yes. If a caterer can guarantee that rising food costs will not affect the price of your catering, jump on that. At Down South Delights, we always let customers know that there could be a 10-15% increase in food costs at any time. You need to create a bit of cushion in your wedding budget in case this occurs; instances like this are unexpected even for the caterer.
Rita also told me that she encourages brides to taste everything they can before deciding on a caterer; meet with as many people as you like! You can be picky about this. Food is something your guests will be talking about long after your wedding is over; choose something that they’ll rave about.
All photos courtesy Down South Delights, unless mentioned.
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Wednesday, January 25, 2012
"People are starting to want something different," mused Vicki Nelson, owner behind Signature Cakes By Vicki. We were talking about her newest cake styles that take cakes beyond just "beautiful." Signature Cakes' Renaissance Cakes are, for lack of a better word, amazing. They aren't cakes that fall in the "budget" realm because the work that goes into one is worthy of the cost. They're not the most expensive cakes ever imagined, but they are serious cakes for brides whose priority is their cake, the couple that wants seriously mind-blowing, spectacular cakes.
And oh yes, they are still delicious.
About the Renaissance Cake Line:
The cultural movement that was the Renaissance is the inspiration for these cakes. Cities in which the Reneissance movement began and spread through are the same ones that conjure images of rolling countryside in France and Italy and impressive historical buildings like the Basilica di San Lorenzo in Florence, Italy.
Hand shaped sugar flowers that look real shouldn't come as much of a surprise where Signature Cakes is concerned. But the hard work doesn't stop at the teeny stamen or veins in the leaves. Look at each tier of these cakes and you'll see tiny dots, lace details, rosettes - everything was painstakingly made and laid on each layer by hand. Enjoy the Renaissance Line in photos and if enjoy what you see, contact Vicki to schedule your tasting.
Cakes: Under the Tuscan Sun + Provencial Landscape
To the left is Under the Tuscan Sun. Vicki explains "the pink is indicative of the soft rose and mauves of the stucco estates and country homes that dot the countryside. The greens represent the lush fields and rolling hills." The cake on the right is called Provencial Landscape. "The flowers on the cake are reminescient of the warm colors of Provence France. The soft Ivory fondant is like the sky at sunset. The brick work, urns, vines, and columns are representative of the architecture in the villages."
Cake: The Venetian Garden Palace
This all white cake with dahlias is called: Venetian Garden Palace. The white is indicative of the pure white Istrian stone used in the building of many of the palaces, including the Palazzo Ducale (also called the Doge's Palace) which was the seat of power for the Venetian Republic for around 700 years.
Cake: Chelsea Garden Morning
The white cake with the multi colored flowers is called: Chelsea Garden Morning. The Chelsea Flower Show Tour is very famous for their beautiful flowers and gardens.
The Classic Cakes
Who needs Sylvia Weinstock or Ron Ben Israel? We have easy access to gloriously designed cakes right here in Nashville. Bear in mind, we're not saying that Signature Cakes By Vicki is gearing towards only making such high-end cakes, that's far from the truth - Vicki is just adding this regal style of design to her repertoire which already spans simple to modern to classic designs. Take a look at these beautiful designs from two recent real Nashville weddings.
Give Signature Cakes by Vicki a call and definitely let her know you're an ABG Bride to receive 20% off your wedding cake plus free delivery anywhere in the Nashville area. For more beautiful cakes in designs that will blow your mind, visit SignatureCakesByVicki.com.
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Posted by Tabitha |
Filed under: Cakes & Food, Luxury Nashville Wedding Finds
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Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Food is an important part of every wedding reception. It helps keep your guests happy and can also help set the tone and feeling of your event. Down South Delights can help you achieve whatever menu you want for your big day. If you are searching for a Nashville wedding caterer, take a few minutes to learn more about Down South Delights via our interview below.
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About Down South Delights, LLC:
Main Contact: Rita Rowland
Phone Number: (615) 513-9147
Email Address: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
Visit their website: DownSouthDelightsCatering.com
Become a Facebook fan: Down South Delights
How many years have you been in business?
8 years
How did you get started in weddings?
When I completed culinary school I noticed that there just were not a lot of opportunities in my area for female chefs at the time. This has changed since, but back then women in the kitchen were assigned to baking/pastry work or prep, rarely as an executive chef.
I loved weddings and creating beautiful food so I decided that catering was the route for me. Previously, while working on my bachelors degree in International Business, I had worked as a catering assistant and pastry chef so I had experience in the catering industry. I opened Down South Delights in 2003 and catered one wedding that year. I had only one employee other than myself and now I employ around 25 people. Eight years later and we catered around 150 weddings in 2011!
It has been so amazing that I would not trade it for any other culinary job in the world.
What do you like most about weddings?
My favorite aspect of weddings is the joy and excitement of the day. It is a special time for the couple, their families, and the guests who come to partake in their special moment. Each wedding is unique and I love the special touches couples create for their weddings.
What’s your favorite wedding picture and why?
Wow, having to choose just one is really tough! If I have to choose one, it is of a sushi display that we created several years ago. I love when clients choose items that are not our normal, daily menu items, as the challenge is always fun. A friend of mine created the display pieces for the table and I love making sushi.
What is your service philosophy?
Our service philosophy is, "Your day, your way!". We want the clients wedding to be about their personal style and to reflect them as a couple. So we do not place limitations or discourage their ideas. I do offer suggestions if I see something that will be logistically difficult or if an idea can further personalize their experience.
What are your strengths compared to others in your category? Why should a bride hire you?
A bride should hire Down South Delights for a variety of reasons: DSD's primary focus is on weddings so we have the knowledge and experience that it takes to properly execute a reception. I also offer our clients a level of personal attention that is second to none. We like to get to know each couple and develop a relationship with them as this will be the most important day of their lives. I am always here to answer their wedding related questions even if they are not food related.
Over 90% of our catering is wedding receptions, so this gives us a huge advantage over other companies that may have a full scale restaurant or have many other catering engagements. I think one of our biggest strengths is the fact that we are constantly evolving as a company. My staff is full of young ladies who are up-to-date on current styles and trends, which we incorporate into our displays and menus.
Our staff has such a wide range of food knowledge that we can create anything that a couple envisions or requests. A large number of local chefs and caterers from upscale establishments have called upon us to handle their receptions because of the endless selections we can offer our clients. I've had couples that want to integrate both of their cultures into the menus and we've created a complimenting menu that showcases dishes without clashing or seeming mismatched.
While our name implies that we specialize in southern cuisine we really do not have a particular specialty. We try to make everyday favorites pop and add exciting elements. Whether you are looking for an old fashioned, southern inspired menu or very modern, haute cuisine we can definitely accommodate.
Who are your 5 favorite Nashville wedding vendors – helpfulness, professionalism, style?
Liberty Party Rentals (http://libertypartyrental.com/) ~ They are very professional and always there for any last minute orders. They are super helpful to all of our brides and very informative about assisting with sizes, room layouts, and the setup team is amazing!
Details by Margaret (http://www.detailsbymargaret.com/) ~ She is a personal friend and I just love working with her. She has this bubbly personality that just makes you smile and she is super organized. We worked together on a dozen or more weddings this year and she has great, innovative details for her clients. For example, at a reception this September she had a real tree at the entrance with photos and such, instead of the typical framed pictures on a table.
Scoobie's Photographic Images (http://www.scoobiephoto.com/) ~ I've worked with them on many occasions and he always bring a great team with him. All of my clients are super pleased and the prices are great. I can say, that I will hire him for my own wedding images.
Houston Station (http://www.eventsnashville.net/houston/) ~ This is one of my favorite venues in the Nashville area. The staff here are so helpful and they really make it simple for us to handle our tasks. The value is amazing and they are very accommodating to all of our clients. While other venues put so many stipulations on the client that it dampers their fun with planning, Houston Station is there to assist with all their needs.
Rhonda Patton (http://www.rhondapattonweddings.com/#) ~ I've worked many events with Rhonda including her sister's wedding a few years ago. Her style and attention to detail is fabulous. The colors and designs that she uses in all of her floral design are really inspiring. Her bouquets are my favorite and when you take a look at her site or blog you will definitely agree! She has a true flair for modern design and ingenious creations for the luxe bride.
What advice would you give to brides on the wedding planning process in general?
I tell all of our clients to enjoy choosing your vendors - this is one of the most exciting elements of the planning process, so have a great time doing it and do not stress if it takes time to find the perfect fit for a particular vendor. I know that is point is said a lot, but make sure you connect with your vendors. You will be working with these people for at least several months so you need to make sure that it will be an enjoyable experience!
Another thing I like to remind our clients: Do not let other people dictate your choices. It is great for friends and family to offer advice or suggestions, but this is your wedding. Make sure that you are happy with every element of your day as you, the couple, are getting married!
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What would be doing if you did not work in weddings?
If I was not in the wedding industry, I would own a confectionery (candy) company. I've always wanted a large factory that makes all kinds of chic, gourmet candies. I make candy as a hobby and a friend who works for the CEO of Louis Vuitton, Yves Carcelle, let him sample some of my candies. When he personally called me to let me know how great they were, I almost died! So if I ever retire from weddings, making yummy confections will be my next endeavor for sure.
Contact Down South Delights today for all of your wedding and event catering needs! And just for our ABG readers - receive a complimentary menu tasting (a $100 value)!
All images courtesy of Down South Delights.
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Posted by Newlywed Sara |
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Thursday, January 19, 2012
Mark your calendars and register to attend a stellar (and very tasty) bridal event on Thursday, January 26th. Chef's Market is hosting a bridal tasting for Nashville area brides-to-be and one guest to attend for free with your R.S.V.P. This event is worth attending if you're looking for a wedding caterer that doesn't just provide extraordinary food but also offers incredible food presentation and great service backed by years of wedding experience.
Ashley and I attended last year and it was scrumptious. The food was creative and delicious. To give you a better idea of what to expect at this year's tasting, I asked Genna Dufault of Chef's Market for a little more information.
What can we expect at this bridal tasting and what will the experience be like?
Brides can expect a relaxed and fun night to come out and try an assortment of our most popular foods for weddings and events in a cocktail hour setting. Guests will have the chance to sample everything from hors d'oeuvres and short plates to desserts and beverages. We're putting together a reception style set up so brides can get and idea of what it means for us to create a 'tablescape' and use decor/props for wedding receptions. Additionally, each member of our sales team will be on hand to answer questions and talk weddings. On top of all this, we've invited Nashville wedding planners and venue managers to come out and sample the food as well, so there will be a fun mix of industry professionals and brides!
Each bride will receive a gift bag filled with Chef's Market's favorites and will have the chance to talk with all three members of our sales team and our owner Jim Hagy.
Describe the style of wedding Chef's Market is "right" for:
Chef's Market is perfect for any wedding, in which the reception venue allows for an outside caterer! Seriously though, we're a great fit for brides who want amazing food, incredible presentation and the chance to really create a wedding menu that reflects who they and their fiancé are as a couple.
How will couples benefit from working with you?
After 14 years of catering every kind of Nashville wedding imaginable (indoor, outdoor, rain, shine, intimate and large receptions) our knack for logistics and design means your event will go flawlessly from the first meeting to the last bite at the reception. No matter what kind of wedding a bride is planning it's always our goal to make her wedding feast feel special and unforgettable.
ABG Notes: Not just a caterer - Chef's Market also can create special treats and favors for you. (Pictures: left, Ace Photography. Right, Enchanted Brides Magazine)
ABG notes: They're also phenomenal when it comes to event design and decor. (Picture: Alex Bee Photo)
ABG Notes: From Southern fare to sushi, you will probably get what you crave for your wedding! (Pictures: Chef's Market)
Be sure to RSVP for the Bridal Tasting with Chef's Market by emailing Genna (genna {at} chefsmarket {dot} com). You can bring one guest, and any additional guests pay $35 a person. This is going to be a fun, casual, and interactive event where you'll be able to meet the staff from Chef's Market and see them in action. We'll see you there!
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Posted by Tabitha |
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Friday, January 6, 2012
Whether you are southern bred, or at least plan to southern-wed, there is a good chance that you love southern cuisine. In fact, more and more brides and grooms are opting for southern wedding cuisine for their wedding day. Hey - we get it! There's nothing like it! From BBQ and ham and biscuits to peach cobbler, there's nothing quite like southern comfort food, especially when you find a professional who can dress your menu up or down to fit the vision of your big day, as is the case with Mrs. J's Baking and Catering.
Mrs. J's Baking and Catering is owned by Celeste aka Mrs. J. Last fall, I had the pleasure of meeting Celeste and we became fast friends. She has a personality and an easiness that just draws you in and makes you comfortable, just like southern food, I guess. She knows what she's doing, loves what she does and uses her family recipes to help couples bring a taste of Nashville to their casual or elegant wedding day.
If you are considering modern, southern cuisine for your wedding day, get to know more about Celeste and Mrs. J's in our spotlight below and then schedule your tasting!
About Mrs. J’s Baking & Catering:
Main Contact: Celeste Morris
Phone Number: 615-642-6217
Email Address: Singnbake {at} aol {dot} com
Visit Website: MrsJs.com
Follow via Twitter: @MrsJsBakencater
Become at Facebook Fan: Mrs. J's Baking and Catering
How many years have you been in business?
12 years—I started the business in 1999
How did you get started in weddings?
I was mostly doing corporate catering and a dear friend asked me to do her daughter’s cakes and wedding reception. From then on, my business has done more weddings year after year just from word of mouth.
What do you like most about weddings?
I love the personal connection that I feel with the couples and their families. The rush of excitement when you see their plans for their special day come together is like no other experience. I always feel honored and blessed to be asked to cater one of the most special meals/ events of people’s lives.
What’s your favorite wedding photo and why?
I LOVE the picture that I took at Cheekwood this September. It shows the beautiful bride, Kendal on her Dad’s arm, waiting for Kelley of Delightful Day to let her know when to start down the path to the altar. I was taking food shots of the reception and was lucky to capture the moment. I later sent it to Kendal’s mom and called it “Big Step” because it was such a special moment and it was something that I treasure. Plus, I got the food shots that I wanted in the process!
What is your service philosophy?
If you don’t find it on my menu—just ask and we can and will do it. If something is not as you like it, let us know and we will make it right. I know that I am very lucky to have been in business for as long as I have, I value my customers and their business and I know that my business is only as good as the service that we provide.
What are your strengths compared to others in your category? Why should a bride hire you?
First off it is the food-- My niche is Southern favorites, BBQ, and made from scratch desserts. I may not have anything and everything on my menu but the things that ARE there are very, very good.
My other strength is the people that work with me, they are fabulous and I am so very lucky to have the relationships and support that I do.
Who are your 5 favorite Nashville wedding vendors – helpfulness, professionalism, style?
Photographers: I love Jonathon Campbell Photography (Jonathon and Sharon), Wedlock Images (Scott and Donice), and Shots by Cheyenne (Cheyenne and Laci) —they each have amazing creative abilities, are professionals, fun to work with, and do a fantastic job of capturing every detail!
Flowers: I love Import Flowers, Lou and Jasmin will do everything to make sure that you find exactly what you want for flowers. They are patient and are great with creative suggestions and then steering you toward some fabulous floral designers.
Venues: Hands down it is Front Porch Farms, Kathy is a joy. She and Brian continue to amaze me with their creativity and versatility. It is a gorgeous spot not only for weddings but for all types of events.
Rentals: Southern Events is always my go-to for rentals; Jill is fantastic and always makes it happen.
All images courtesy of Mrs. J's Baking and Catering. Contact company for photo credits.
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Posted by Ashley of Ashley's Bride Guide |
Filed under: Our Featured Advertisers!, Cakes & Food
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