Last night, we had the pleasure of attending the premiere of Rose of Sharon’s recently remodeled studio. Amazing! The transformation makes me want to re-design our office.

The space formerly used for bridal consultations (and the accounting department!) now has a stunning “greenhouse” feel. The team actually demolished the paneling and found gorgeous brick walls. Add in some unique display shelves and the look is incredible.

And speaking of incredible, the new wedding section is fabulous. Not only is there a couch and a large computer monitor for viewing photos, but every type of vase, container, candelabra and column is right there to touch and feel. I feel like a kid in a candy store each time I walk in.

If you haven’t selected a florist for your wedding, be sure to make an appointment with Lynette or Judy!

The beautiful Mediterranean-style architecture is an elegant backdrop.  Can you imagine arriving under this porte-cochere in a horse-drawn carriage or antique Rolls Royce?

The outdoor lobby area is available for wedding receptions. as is the lawn/pool area.  Ceremonies can be held facing the stunning fountain, or the dramatic arches of the building.

Laterra is a beautiful property, but its only drawback is the lack of indoor space.  If you consider hosting an event there, be sure to consider the weather!

However, the added bonus is that the guest accommodations consist of 1 bedroom-, 2 bedroom-, and 3 bedroom-suites with full kitchens, which are great for families.

And of course, the best bonus is the Spa!  While we didn’t take any photos inside, the relaxation room is to die for – a circular room with a water/rain feature from floor to ceiling.  Amazing!  And the floating cabanas over the koi pond look heavenly for a massage.

Laterra does not have on-site catering, so everything must be brought in, including tables and chairs.  For more information about rentals, contact Susan at (866) 828-3772.

Event Planner, Cicely Rocha.Miller and Sarah Hubbell of Life Design Event Planning recently launched a new website and resource called Mrster :: A Resource for Planning the Modern Union.

Mrster (pronounced: mist + er) is an online magazine and ultimate planning tool for same sex and hetero couples who are planning for their wedding days. Our goal is to provide a modern day resource chock full of smart ideas, allied vendors, real life experiences and true stories for couples of all backgrounds.

With all of the wedding blogs floating around the blogosphere, you’re probably wondering what sets Mrster apart. Allow me to give you a little background on Mrster in the making…

Erica, one of our advisory board members, recently described her frustration when looking for a cake topper that resembled her and her bride-to-be, Shannon. Scrolling through images of topper after topper of three inch figurines clad in tux and gown, Erika eventually gave up on trying to find a pair that reflected her own relationship. Perhaps her dilemma felt trivial at the time – a small battle in a larger war … but even the small battles are worth fighting. It is with couples like Erika and Shannon in mind, that Mrster was created. Add in loads of passion and personality, and we’re sure you’ll be adding Mrster onto your daily reading.

Another fantastic resource that is tangled in the depths of Mrster is it’s FabUlist. This is a list of vendors that believes in legalizing gay marriage, pursues in the unity of all couples so there is no separation, acknowledges that we are all equal and does not judge nor discriminate against anyone else that believes the same. They offer services to gay and hetero couples without any questioning or second guessing. They are excited for your commitment to each other and are with you during the fight for equality. How can you pass that up!?

What are you waiting for? Head on over to Mrster.com, and don’t forget to subscribe!

If you are wedding vendor that is interested in being a part of the FabUlist and advertising opportunities, please email cicely@lifedesignevents.com for more information. Currently, we are catering to Arizona couples but are looking to go nationally in the next few months.

Velon Designs provides a wonderful product for lining the inside of tents.  Velon is a vinyl made from recylced plastic, and is 100% recyclable as well.  It is waterproof,  flame resistant, and drapes as well as fabric.

Velon can be printed in a variety of colors and patterns – or you can supply your own custom design!  The possibilities are endless.  Ask your tent rental company about using this great product for your wedding!