Thursday, March 22, 2012
A few weeks ago, I was invited to sample treats from Down South Delights at their bridal tasting. It was a fun evening, a great opportunity to reconnect with wedding professionals and to meet engaged couples while...eating!
If you attended, I'm sure you had a great time too. If you were not able to attend, fret not. Thanks to Ryan Tolbert Photography, I have photos of the food, the venue and the event design along with info on the team that pulled it all together.
The Event
Designs by Margaret coordinated the event and was responsible for the table and event design. My favorite table was the fun and colorful crayon table. Liberty Party Rentals debuted their incredible ghost chairs. The event was held at the W.O. Smith Music School. It's centrally located and has gorgeous hardwood floors throughout. It's a great looking space that you have to see in person to appreciate.
The Food
Down South Delights provided a full buffet of food, a hot chocolate bar and a beverage bar that included fun alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Of course, I sampled just about everything. Nashville Cake Pops also provided...cake pops! I personally loved the chicken skewers, homemade lemonade, and sangria and the hot chocolate bar. Full menu included:
*Chinois Chicken Skewers with sake Lime Sauce
*Bistro Rolls: beef tenderloin, caramelized onions, tomato chutney, and horseradish cream on butter rolls
*Cashew & Roasted Veggie Lo Mein in Mini Take Out Boxes
*Tuscan Marinated Shrimp
*Hot Buttered Seafood Dip
*Bourbon Brown Sugar Meatballs
*Mini Cheese Truffles: Pineapple Pecan & Crispy Bacon Cheddar with gourmet crackers
*Watermelon & Scallop Ceviche
*Assortment of Spring Canapes
*Chive Crepes rolled w/ Boursin & Farmer's Market Grilled Vegetables
*Southern Spiked Peach Punch & Brandied Slush
Rita of Down South Delights (left) and Margaret of Details by Margaret (right)
Fresh fruit for the beverage bar
Kids coloring table
Hot new ghost chairs from Liberty Party Rental
The hot chocolate bar with marshmallows and whipped cream!
Cake pops
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Posted by Ashley of Ashley's Bride Guide |
Filed under: Cakes & Food
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Wednesday, March 14, 2012
A delicious new trend has caught on with the wedding cake world -- a cake buffet. Now, every guest can have their cake and eat it too! I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Vicki, owner and baker of Signature Cakes, about the cake buffet’s advantages for your reception. Read on to see how layer after layer will delight your guests!
Photo by Zach and Jody - Gray Photography
Can you tell me how the cake buffet works?
Yes! Signature seeks to develop such distinct cake flavors that no other desserts are necessary at your wedding. The goal is for you to have a dessert bar simply by cutting up your cake! At Signature, we allow a 4-tiered wedding cake to have three flavors, and the top layer can be the bride and groom’s favorite to save for their anniversary.
I typically encourage the bride to ask her caterer, or whomever is cutting the cake, to cut the slices thinly and arrange them on a table with place card descriptions for each flavor.
Top and Left Photo by Anna Hedges Photography; Right Photo by McLellan Style
What about flavors? Do you offer a wide variety?
Signature offers 12 different gourmet layers for tasting. We’re always bringing in new flavors because I can customize for a particular bride. I’m a baker at heart, so I’m happy to create a flavor, try it out on friends and family, and then share it with the bride! Then, the new flavor becomes a Signature flavor option.
Our most recent creation, for instance, is a Hazelnut Milk Chocolate Cake, better known as Nutella! Look for it at the Pink Bridal Show in March. The thing to remember is that wedding cake should be the best cake you’ve ever had; yes, it’s important that it looks pretty, but you want it to taste delicious for your guests!
Photo courtesy of Signature Cakes by Vicki
Is the cake buffet option more expensive than having an entire wedding cake that’s one flavor?
No, there’s no extra charge for flavors per layer, even though oftentimes certain flavors prove to be more expensive than others. I want this option to be accessible to brides!
Do you find that the cake buffet is a hit at receptions?
Yes! I’ve always found it to be a huge hit! Who wouldn’t want a choice? Also, brides and grooms are increasingly playing the parts of host and hostess at receptions these days, so this option shows that they care about their guests’ different preferences.
Cake Flavor Photo by Ace Photography
Is there an issue with a certain cake flavor running out at receptions with the cake buffet?
This is never really a problem, and certainly not a bad thing. Guests never complain about certain flavors being extra popular; they just always enjoy talking about which one they liked best. A guest would be disappointed if one flavor was good and another wasn’t, but every layer is delicious, so problems are avoided. Rarely does a layer run out at a reception, though this may be the common misconception regarding flavors per layer.
What would you say are other advantages of the cake buffet?
Well, in addition to providing your guests with a choice, the cake gets eaten up! So often from receptions, brides and grooms spend an enormous amount of money on a cake that doesn’t taste good, so it’s barely touched. These cakes look beautiful and taste delicious!
Are you convinced now that a cake buffet is right for you?! If so, then contact Vicki at Signature Cakes by Vicki and make sure to tell her you heard about her on ABG!
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Posted by Betsy-Intern |
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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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Posted by Betsy-Intern |
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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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