Not every Bride wants a traditional tiered wedding cake anymore. Some opt for a small cake and a trio of desserts, some nix the cake all together and have a sundae bar, and others like this Bride want the look of a traditional wedding cake with the portability of a cupcake!

Check out a few fun photos from one of our January Brides taken at The Loveless Barn!

And what groom wouldn’t want this decadent chocolate cake with luscious strawberries and chocolate dipped strawberries?

For more information on The Bake Shoppe contact us by phone 615-321-2394 or email Amy Richardson at Amy@maineventpro.com. To contact Angela Disrud photography visit her website, www.angeladisrudphotography.com

We had the opportunity this past week to make some delightful Petite Fours and Macaroons for a baby shower. The delightful little pastel morsels just so happened to be perfect for Easter as well, so we made extra to share with a few friends!

                                      These little treats were so festive and fun to make!

Little macaroon pillows filled with creme in flavors of Rose, Blackberry, and Lemon Lavender

Delicate flowers were piped onto squares of our Traditional White cake and Sour Cream Almond cake draped in silky liquid fondant petite four icing…YUM!

Contact us today to find out what The Bake Shoppe can add to your special event or Holiday celebration by calling 615-321-2394 or emailing Amy@maineventpro.com.

Several months ago we extended an invitation to all area photographers to use Legacy Farms as a background for their photo shoots. Many have taken us up on the offer, and we have been blessed with some really exceptional photographs of Legacy Farms!

One of these talented photographers is Robyn at Pix By Robyn. Robyn has become a fixture at Legacy Farms. We love it when we see her drive through the gates and unload the tools of her trade. The families she has photographed at Legacy Farms are fortunate to have hired her to capture the most amazing moments of their lives.

Her Legacy Farms photos are also pretty amazing and we want to share some with you.

This is just the beginning of MEP’s Photographer Profiles. We are going to feature some of the best and brightest photographers working their magic in Middle Tennessee. Their photos will be highlighted very soon on this blog so stay tuned.

Capture some of this Legacy Farms photo magic for you and yours. Give us a call at 615.321.2394 or contact Kellie Bryson at kellie@maineventpro.com to schedule your photo shoot soon.

When most people think of event décor, they think BIG. I think, however, it is the little things that make the biggest statement.

Linens – They come in all shapes, sizes and colors. From floral to sequin accents, neutrals to bright pinks, they all add understated drama and meaningful impact to any occasion.

Centerpieces – Simplicity is the word here. I saw a recent centerpiece at a wedding made from a trio of empty wine bottles (the couples’ favorite kind) and a simple gerbera daisy in each. If you want a more elaborate centerpiece, have your floral design create miniatures to set at each place setting for the guest to take home.

Special Lighting Elements – Project the honoree’s name or initials on the floor, ceiling or wall or a low-cost way of casting a special light on them. You can also have images change throughout the event which will shift the mood and atmosphere of your event space.

Décor elements – Go for one large statement in the middle of the room as a focal point instead of scattering small vignettes all around the room.

Seating – To make guests feel at home and connected, seat them at a long rectangular table instead of rounds. It makes them feel like they are at Grandma’s house.

What is your favorite little thing that makes a big impact?

Main Event Productions can help you with your design dilemmas. Call 615.321.2394 or contact Kellie Bryson at kellie@maineventpro.com to make an appointment!

One of the most difficult decisions facing any bride-to-be or professional event planner is the selection of the perfect menu. There are so many choices and it can become a daunting task.

Some items to consider are:

• Are you going to serve finger foods?
• Are you going to serve a full meal?
• Are you going to have a specific theme of food for this wedding?
• Are you going to have a bar?

It is important to find a qualified caterer with a good track record and reputation. Get references. A caterer might make a mean barbecue but how about their chateaubriand? Ask for a sample menu or two from recent weddings they have catered. Sample wedding menus should include everything from the appetizers to the salad to the main course to the desserts.

Are you going to have a theme? Do you want to create a wedding menu to fit that theme? If you are planning a Hawaiian-themed wedding, you may want a menu with a luau flavor. Casual weddings may have a more informal flavor.

Are you ready to schedule an appointment to discuss these issues? Simply call 615.321.2394 or contact Kellie Bryson at kellie@maineventpro.com.

That is, we are giving away a free event at Legacy Farms. How cool is that?

If you work for, or know of, a deserving non-profit serving Wilson, Cannon or Rutherford Counties, please send them this information. The winner of the giveaway will receive an event worth $20,000, where they could hold their largest fundraiser of the year. Are you holding a capital campaign? How about a scholarship fundraiser? Why not a donor thank you event?

Legacy Farms is planning an Open House event on July 28th and we want your organization to be a part of it! Organizations who wish to present will be given the opportunity to appear before a panel of judges on July 21^st. Those who make presentations will be invited to host a table-top display during the Legacy Farms Open House where the guests will have the opportunity to talk to each organization one-on-one and then vote for their favorite. Just like Dancing with the Stars, the scores from the presentation and the popular vote will be combined and the winner will be announced at the Open House.

Hurry because the entry deadline is June 30, 2011.

Questions? Call 615.321.2394

Please email Kellie Bryson with your contact information so that you will know the dates for the live presentations and the open house.

You knew there would be fine print:

• Open to a non-profit that serves Wilson, Cannon or Rutherford County
• Must present their proposal in person at Legacy Farms on July 21st. Presentations to last no longer than 15 minutes.
• Event to be scheduled at least three months in advance and restricted to a Sunday-Thursday, based on availability.
• Value: $20,000
• Includes facility rental of Legacy Farms, catering of food, tables, chairs, linens, wait staff and centerpieces for up to 200 guests.
• Event must take place before July 31, 2012.

Visit these websites to find out more about Legacy Farms and Main Event Productions.

Legacy Farms website: http://legacyfarmstn.com/

Main Event Productions website: http://maineventpro.com/

Brides are like flowers, not one bride is just alike!  When it comes to the wedding cake some brides just want something simple yet pretty.  They would rather choose one from a plethora of others!  Then there are some brides who use their cake as a creative outlet to express the personality and interest of their marriage relationship.  Either way, we love all of the brides that come through the doors of The Bake Shoppe.

We wanted to share a wedding cake with you, our blog readers, that a couple designed.  It was such a unique design and one that we have never done before here at The Bake Shoppe.  The idea was to have stained glass-looking sunbeams displayed on different tiers of the cake with a sun, sunbeams, and silhouette serving as the topper.  It’s a unique design and one that I actually love!!!!  Check it out….

The Bake Shoppe: Sunbeam/Stained Glass Wedding Cake

The Bake Shoppe: Sunbeam/Stained Glass Wedding Cake

The Bake Shoppe: Sunbeam/Stained Glass Wedding Cake

So, if you’re needing a wedding cake, then The Bake Shoppe is the place for you, no matter what kind of bride you are!  Call or email to schedule your cake tasting and consultation!

615-321-2394

cakes@thebakeshoppe.com

Legacy Farms

With Legacy Farms being our newest addition to Main Event Productions there have been many questions!  So, in order to help you out, we created a “Legacy Farms FAQ”…take a look!

I want to have a wedding and reception at Legacy Farms. How many guests can be accommodated?
The Manor:
60 guests for a seated reception; 75 guests for a cocktail reception
The Event Center:
Up to 400 guests downstairs; Up to 104 upstairs; 200 for a ceremony
The Covered Pier:
100 for a seated meal; 84 for a seated ceremony

Can I bring in an outside caterer?
Outside caterers are welcomed. Documentation of current business license, health department permit and appropriate insurance is required.  Please ask for complete list of requirements for vendors.

Can I serve alcohol at my event?
You may bring your own alcohol onsite to be served exclusively by Legacy Farms ABC licensed bartenders.

How late into the night can the party go?
Start and end times for your event are dependent upon your facility rental contract.

Can I have a band or loud music?
Bands and DJs are welcome in the Event Center.

Is there valet parking available?
Valet Parking is available. Onsite self parking is located near the Event Center.

Can I do my own decorating/centerpieces? If so how long before can I get in to decorate?
Decorating is welcomed. All setup and cleanup should be done within the time frame of the facility rental agreement.

Can I have bridal portraits made here prior to my wedding or engagement photos?
All confirmed bookings are welcome to arrange for pre-wedding photos onsite.

Is there a rain plan?
Each and every outside event is carefully assessed for a comprehensive plan in case of inclement weather. Legacy Farms is proud to be able to coordinate the plan at no additional charge.

Is there a damage deposit?
The security deposit amount is dependent upon the area rented. All security deposits are returned 2 weeks following the event. In the event of damage to property  the renter will be notified immediately so that proper arrangements can be made.

Do I have to get “Wedding Insurance”?
Wedding insurance is a very popular option that some couples choose to purchase  there are many legitimate companies as well as unscrupulous companies. It is not required. All vendors are required to provide appropriate insurance proof of coverage. Be sure to inquire about their capabilities prior to placing deposits.

Are there special rates if I use A Catered Affair or The Bake Shoppe?
Discounts do apply when using other Main Event Productions vendors.  Ask your event planner.

Do you offer any special lodging rates if I book an event at Legacy Farms?
We offer the entire manor at a discounted rate creating the perfect private setting for your friends and family. We have up to 10 rooms available accommodating up to 20 guests.

What meals are included in the bed and breakfast package?
We include a gourmet breakfast prepared by our creative chefs. Please advise your planner if you have any special dietary requirements. We can certainly accommodate those requests.

I do not know many local vendors  can you help with vendor referrals?
We have worked with the best event professionals in middle Tennessee.  We are connected with a group of specialists and are happy to make those arrangements for you or put you in contact directly with the individuals.  We will handle as many or as few of the details as needed to ensure that your event is stress-free.

For any additional questions that you may have, please don’t hesitate to call or email us for those answer! 

615-321-2394

kellie@maineventpro.com

www.legacyfarmstn.com

Unless you’re a wedding planner, work in the wedding industry, or have been married multiple times, the wedding world is one giant foreign territory.  Obviously, one would have a general understanding of the needed items like a dress, cake, invitations, venue, etc.  but the more you walk into the land you will discover hidden bumps, trails, ponds, the list goes on!

So, having been in this territory for some time now, we would like to give you a little tour guide.  That’s right!  A little map that will help you be prepared for “road closures” and know how to avoid the “school zones” in order to give you a stress free wedding day and wedding planning process.

To start out, we would like to target the “venue” topic.  One of the first steps in choosing the perfect venue spot is to ask all the right questions.  But, what if you don’t know what questions to ask???  No fret, keep reading!

1. Is our date available?

2.  How many people can the space accommodate? Or in some cases, what is your minimum? You want to make sure Aunt Sally has a seat, but that you’re not breaking any fire codes!

3.  How many events does the venue host at once? You are spending so much time and resources on one day so make sure that the venue would be as focused on your event as we would be.

4.  Do you have preferred and/or required vendors? Some venues have a list of specific florists or lighting designers from which you’re required to choose. I found it helpful to know this in advance.

5.  What is the “in case of bad weather” plan?

6.  What all is included in the allotted time? Will it include set up and break down time?

7.  Simply ask what’s included and not included. This will help to know if chair and linens will need to be rented or not.

8.  Ask about the sound system. Will microphones and speakers be already set up or do you need your entertainment to bring it in (which could cost extra $$$).

9.  Ask if there is a coordinator available to help or if one will have to hire one separately

10.  When discussing pricing, ask…

• about the cost of children
• what dates would be less expensive
• extra fees…ie cake cutting, equipment usage, ceremony on site fee etc.
• If there is gratuity involved?  Sales tax?
• Bartender fee?
• Cost of doing morning vs. evening dinner.  Will it be cheaper if done on a Friday or Sunday?
• deposit fee?

11.  Who will be there on the day of the event?  Director of Catering?  Coordinator you are signing contract with?

These are just a few questions to get the ball rolling.  If anyone wants to chime in and add to this list, then please, we welcome any and all insights!

Check out our post about FAQ’s for Events @1418

Please call or email for more information in booking Events @1418 for your next special event.

I make it part of my daily routine to keep up to speed on what the latest wedding trends are via blogs, wedding websites, magazines, etc.  A few months ago I ran across the idea of having a post-wedding brunch.  The idea is to have a brunch where  family and good friends get together and  provide a warm send-off for the bride and groom, who may be honeymoon-bound later in the day. Brunch is usually held the morning after the wedding, and it tends to be an intimate affair, often including only family members, the wedding party, and out-of-town guests who are especially close to the bride and groom.

Now, because I’m slightly biased, I immediately and excitedly thought…”Events @1418 is a perfect spot for a post-wedding brunch!”  And then I thought how good our culinary team at A Catered Affair is and the endless brunch cocktails that we could create.  Needless to say, I got hungry and wanted a mimosa!

Events @1418

Buffet at Events@1418 in Nashville

Front Room of Events @1418

A Catered Affair

All of this post to say…

If you’re looking for the perfect spot to hold your post-wedding brunch with the best catering services, then look no further than Main Event Productions and our expert team of culinary art.

call 615-321-2394 or email kellie@maineventpro.com for more information!