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Month: May 2014

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In photographing my reinvention project I meet people who re-evaluate their life’s purpose, oftentimes focusing their energy and passion to help make other people’s lives richer.

Over the past two years I’ve had pleasure of getting to know a little about a wonderful woman, Linda Gelfond, whose daughter Pam’s wedding we photographed in 2012 in New York.  As Linda writes…”It seems that more often than not, in today’s world, we have come to recognize that life’s various twists and turns are not only surprising, but also expected.  Moreover, these changes have come to be celebrated. The challenge is to catch these curves balls and create a whole new ball field, in which we not only function, but also thrive.  I began my professional life as a CPA and internal auditor, with a career at a Wall Street firm.  I now find myself an educator, working with children who are struggling readers, and wholly committed to an array of not-for-profit activities. I work hard to make a real difference in the lives of children and their parents.  I’m indeed fortunate to have these opportunities, but wise enough to have grabbed opportunities that add meaning and depth to my life.  So much so, that if my personal circumstances hadn’t changed, my life wouldn’t have become so fulfilling.”

Linda added a terrific quote by Maria Robinson that sums up reinvention:  “Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending.”

One of the non-profits that Linda works with is Project Cicero, which each year “collects 150,000 books and distribute to 1,000+ NYC public school teachers who teach in under-resourced schools.”  Please spread the word about the good that Project Cicero does.

Thanks so much Linda for your participation in my project and your wisdom!!

 

 

Stephanie Carmody

We recently photographed CT wedding planner Stephanie Carmody of Tres Chic Events CT for her website…and got a chance to chat…here’s some Q&A about Stephanie and her business.

Every bride’s a star on her wedding day.  How has your background working with celebrities helped in your wedding planning business?
I have had the privilege of working on events like the Daytime Emmy Awards, The People’s Choice Awards and the Country Music Association Awards.  It has been extremely gratifying to plan celebrations that have included major star power like Ellen Degeneres, Donald Trump, Chef Mario Batali, Martha Stewart and John Legend.  I feel that to deliver these kind of uniquely memorable events- for any of my clients- calls for a healthy dose of imagination and creativity, as well as adhering to the highest standards.

What led to start Trés Chic Events?
Trés Chic is really just a natural evolution of my career path.  My former life was that of a NYC publicist, and I planned many high profile events for my celebrity and corporate clients.  That was my training ground for bringing a client’s vision to life.  I loved the creativity- taking hundreds of well-chosen details and weaving them together to create one integrated, cohesive celebration.  I ultimately knew I could leave the publicity aspect behind, but I had found my passion; being an event artisan!

What sets you apart in the Connecticut wedding planning business?
There are really 3 key things that make Trés Chic unique:

The first is the fact that the clients’ exclusive experience begins with ours. With my experience of working on those A-list events, I have developed an incredibly exacting attention to detail.  That is something that is an absolute necessity in order to create these kinds of signature events flawlessly.  It’s what sets us apart, and sets our clients’ minds at ease.

The second is that delivering uniquely memorable events that are impeccably executed calls for a discerning approach.  We work only on a finite number of events, curating every luxe detail and creating a bespoke, one-of-a-kind experience for our clients.  And lastly, we have cultivated relationships with the most reputable vendors and resources, which ensures that our clients’ event will have the best of everything.

What are some new wedding styles and trends to watch for in 2014?
In terms of style, I think every year there is some trend that is a rule-breaker.  This year, you can’t open a bridal magazine without seeing the blush pink wedding gown.

I also see a return to luxe.  It’s not all about the DIY, shoestring budget anymore.  Just like in fashion, people are tired of depriving themselves and now they want to treat themselves to a luxury.  I am happy to see this trend toward higher-end, more formal affairs.

I also see the trend toward weekend-long celebrations continuing. These really turn an event into an experience.  They tend to be smaller and more intimate-with just the closest families and friends.  After all, those are the people with whom the couple wants to spend meaningful time together.  And then the surprise-wedding trend continues, too.  Beyond celebrities and couples whisking guests away for a “decoy event”, we have even seen the groom who planned the entire wedding to surprise his bride!

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