Salon Etiquette:

 The Dos & Don’ts of the Hairstylist/Client Relationship

Few people would disagree that hair is an important part of how we look—a great hairstyle goes a long way to making us look and feel good. Getting along with your stylist can do wonders for getting the style you want, but that's not always as easy as we'd like it to be (not to mention, how much and who should you tip?). We consulted with several hairstylists for their experiences, along with the feedback of staffers and fans to help explain why this stylist-client relationship can be so complicated. 

The Hairstylist-Client Relationship

A woman's relationship with her hairstylist can be like her relationship with a significant other: When things are going well, the woman is wildly happy, blissfully in love, and feels beautiful; but when things go wrong, life is a disaster and she doesn't know what to do.

For men, their relationship with a stylist (or barber) usually is less mercurial, but that doesn't mean men are always happy with their haircut or color, or that guys don't feel just as much anxiety about whether their hair looks good or not.

Not surprisingly, like any interaction between two people, a successful relationship is mostly about communication. Regardless of the salon you go to, sometimes you end up with an untalented or incompatible stylist, and you just have to let go.

On the other hand, you should never be the client from hell. No stylist wants to deal with a client who demeans, disrespects, or treats them as an underling. The goal for both sides is a long-lasting, healthy relationship between the client, stylist, and salon that lasts years.

When Stylists and Clients Clash

Although this may not be easy for either the client or the stylist to hear, the truth is both can have objectives or moods that simply clash. Maybe not always, but from time to time tension can develop, and the goal is to defuse it—or to know when you have a mismatch and need to move on to someone else.

Ask your friends or salon employees who don't do hair and you'll often hear that stylists can be a sensitive, tricky group of artists. Oftentimes, ego gets in the way of reason—but there absolutely are stylists out there who are exceedingly talented yet humble.

Stylists often will ask for your feedback, but then seem to ignore or disregard everything you say. However, you also must keep in mind that lots of clients want haircuts that won't work for their hair type, or they have completely unrealistic expectations about what's possible with their hair. A stylist must deal with such situations delicately; some are true pros at this, while others don't know how to tell a client that his or her hair wish is unrealistic or impossible to achieve—which doesn't ensure either party will be satisfied with the result.

Stylists have a difficult job. Most are on their feet all day long, while trying to make their clients look great, even if they have wispy, seriously damaged, over-dyed, or difficult-to-manage hair. As clients, we need to understand that hairstylists, even the incredibly talented ones, aren't miracle workers. If we show up with seriously damaged hair, we cannot expect to walk out looking like we're ready to star in a shampoo ad!

Salon Etiquette: The Dos & Don’ts

1. Don't be late. If you're overbooked or running late, tell your client as soon as possible or ensure the front desk staff handle it. Do not leave your client sitting in the waiting area wondering what happened. If you're running behind by more than 30 minutes, offer to reschedule the appointment at a discounted rate; your client will appreciate you being respectful of their time.
2. Your client wants a great haircut and style (or color), so be patient and kind when discussing how to achieve that. Explain everything: Assume your client has never heard of fringe or an inverted cut and doesn't know the difference between highlighting techniques. Be sure to ask your client if they have any questions about what you've recommended, and if they do, clarify it for them.
3. Be clear about the costs. As the stylist, it is best to assume the client didn't do any research and that the front desk staff didn't do their job when booking the appointment. That means you must be up front about what everything is going to cost. This is especially true for dyeing hair, as each process has a different price. Sticker shock at the end of the service is uncomfortable for everyone.
4. Honesty is the best policy, up to a point. Be patient and listen, offer a kind smile in a reassuring tone, but if you can't give the client what they want, be sure to say so, explain why, and describe what you can do. Offer a positive alternative rather than a flat-out “no”—and never make the client feel insecure.
5. Don't expect a tip for mediocre or poor service. It is not a given that a client will leave a gratuity, it's something you as the stylist must earn. Just as you wouldn't tip a restaurant server who was lazy, rude, or inept, a client at the salon shouldn't tip a stylist who does a poor or careless job. The motto is: Expect the cost of the service, but work for the tip.
6. Put away your cell phone while you're working on the salon floor! Your clients shouldn't have to wait while you check your email, respond to a text message, or “Like” a post on Facebook. When you're on the salon floor, you're on the job, and all of your attention should be focused on your clients, not on your cell phone. We repeat: Put the phone away. Thank you!
7. Keep conversation pleasant and professional. It's tempting, especially when a client brings up such topics, to talk intimately about religion, money, sex, romance, or even politics. Avoid these topics as much as possible, as well as any gossip about the salon. Whatever you do, be mindful not to put the client in the crossfire of your battle with a co-worker or manager—that is the height of unprofessional behavior and is guaranteed to make your client uncomfortable.

Salon Etiquette for the Client

1. Don't be late. If you're more than a few minutes late, don't be offended if you get short shrift or if you lose your appointment altogether. Being late happens, but take responsibility when it's your blunder. Just as you would hope the stylist or salon would call you if they are running behind, it's always OK to call the salon to let them know you're going to be late.
2. Bring pictures of the haircuts and styles you admire. Show your stylist what you have in mind, but be prepared to accept it if the answer is no. Expect your stylist to explain (clearly) why the look you want isn't possible or realistic for your hair, then move on to discuss what is possible, and make sure you both understand and agree on the desired outcome. As one stylist whispered to us, "I have only shears, not magic wands."
3. Tell the stylist how much time you spend styling your hair each day. If 10 minutes tops is what you want, don't ask for a style that takes longer than that.
4. Know what the services you're requesting cost. As a client, you should ask what the price is for the work you want done when you book the appointment. Do not wait to ask until the end of your service or just “guesstimate” the cost based on what you paid at another salon—you may be in for an unpleasant, awkward surprise!
5. Speak up, but do so in a kind courteous manner. If you want something, ask for it, but don't be insulting or imperious. As the client, you should expect a gracious level of customer service, but it's also your responsibility to be gracious in return. Believe us, salons know which clients are unreasonably difficult or downright mean—you don't want to be on that list!
6. If you're happy with the service, tip your stylist. A gratuity of 10–20% is the norm in the salon industry, and is customary for a job well done. Stylists remember clients who tip well, and doing so will earn you points down the road, perhaps when you need to make a last-minute appointment with your stylist to prep for an unexpected interview or other event.
7. Don't try to become your stylist's BFF (best friend forever). Chances are you see your stylist on a regular basis, and may even discuss some personal details of your life, which might lead you to think that you can become friends outside of the salon environment. Don't do it. Keep it professional, so that if a problem crops up, it won't be awkward to address it with them.
8. Only use your cell phone if truly necessary. Even if you don't want to chat with your stylist, it's rude to spend your time in the chair making phone calls, texting, or responding to emails that can wait. Sooner or later, this will interfere with the stylist's work and you can't blame them for that.

When Things Go Wrong (What Did You Do to My Hair?)

Even the best stylists have bad days or make the occasional mistake, just like all of us. Here's how the good ones handle it:

• Stylists don't argue, even if they disagree. They listen to the client, apologize sincerely, and offer to make it right as soon as possible.
• Stylists realize that the most important thing is for no one to feel traumatized. There is rarely a reason to be shocked or insulted if you're the stylist or to be despondent if you're the client. Almost every hair mistake or disaster can be fixed with minimal collateral damage.
• Stylists realize that generosity on the part of the salon and understanding on the part of the client keeps a long-term relationship intact.

What if you're the client and you hate how your hair turned out? Do you grin and bear it, only to break down in tears as soon as you reach your car? That's not what we suggest; you need to speak up right then and there, but in as rational a manner as possible (even if you're freaking out inside). Our advice:

• Tell your stylist (or, if your stylist is already working on a new client, the salon manager or front desk staff) that you're unhappy with how your hair turned out.
• Keep your composure, and clearly state what you don't like about your hair. Is it too short? Not enough layers? Is the color copper when you wanted honey tones? Be as specific as possible so the person you're speaking to will know how to frame the fix.
• It is OK to withhold payment for the service until it is done to your satisfaction. Whether fixed on the same day or at a later date that's convenient for both parties, do not pay for a salon service if you're unhappy with the results. If the salon insists on payment, be sure you have written confirmation that the cost to fix the problem will be zero (as in free).
• In the future, be sure to discuss with your stylist any concerns you have about how your hair turned out the last time. Perhaps the problem was due to the dye being left on too long, so the timing needs to be adjusted, or perhaps you forgot to tell your stylist you had colored your hair a couple weeks back (how color turns out on dyed versus virgin hair can be very different). Get everything out in the open to ensure the same issue doesn't happen again.

The Bottom Line

To a client, the salon environment (especially a new salon) can seem intimidating. The tips above will help you feel empowered and capable of handling the sometimes fractious, but more often than not rewarding, relationship you can have with a talented hairstylist.

As a stylist, you're in a unique position to make your clients look and feel like a million bucks. They're trusting (and paying) you to make them look good, and they deserve your full attention and the full extent of your talents. Fostering and maintaining a positive experience for every client will reap huge rewards for you, both personally and professionally.

Unique Melbourne Chrismas Party Venues.

This is it, we’re on the home stretch, people. December is looming fast, which means end of year celebrations! On the top of everyone’s shortlist this year is ‘unique Melbourne Christmas party venues‘. Luckily, what with this city being such a cultural hot spot, we’ve got plenty of those. So, grab your shortlist of unique Melbourne Christmas party venues, and let’s compare notes.

Melbourne Museum

Hold your event amongst the treetops, surrounded by prehistoric creatures, even next to tissue specimens! Melbourne Museum has a bunch of spaces to choose from, including many of the (semi)permanent exhibitions and galleries. Learning can be fun, especially when there’s wine and delicious canapés involved.

Holy Moly

This aptly named venue is a lot of things. It’s a sports bar, a nightclub, a diner-style place to hang out. Holy Moly’s layout, decor, and the light-installation dance floor make this venue stand out from the crowd. You will definitely have an unforgettable night at this super cool Hawthorn hotspot .

Projekt 3488

Located in the beautiful surrounds of Warburton, Projekt 3488 is a stunner of a venue. A former masonic hall, this venue has something pretty to Instagram in every corner. On the fringe of the Yarra Valley, this venue is guaranteed to draw appreciative “oohs” and “aahs” from your guests. Make a day of it and hire a couple of coaches to bus the troops in and out.

Spirit of Melbourne

Melbourne is beautiful city. And arguably, one its finest features is the Yarra River at night–Flinders Street Station glowing golden, the lights from Southbank shining brightly. By opting for a river cruise for your Christmas party, you’re bound to see Melbourne from all her good angles.

Carlton Brewhouse

This beautiful Victorian building is a dynamite spot for a mid-afternoon work party. After all, it’s a brewery and the home of Carlton Draught. It also has a big sunny courtyard where you can opt for a gourmet barbecue. Or, theme your event for that extra level of merriment. How about an Oktoberfest party, or casino night?

Bobby McGee’s

Enter into the weird and wonderful Bobby McGee’s space, and you’ll be instantly transported. This venue is where the events team from Rydges Melbourne get to unleash their creative, and boy, do they ever! There are three themed bars, a dance floor and the option for extra (delicious) quirks such as a donut wall, or gelato cart. Topsy-turvy tasty fun times.

Men How to Dress for Your Body Shape

There's nothing the fashion world loves more than doling out directions and issuing edicts. “This is in.” “This is out.” “This is cool.” “This is hideous.” “This will make you look like a style superstar.” “This will make you look like a total fashion disaster.”

It's enough to make your head spin. Lesser men have collapsed under the pressure. And the worst part about it all is that half of those pesky proclamations are based purely on transient trends instead of truly timeless style. What's the point of following a fad if it's going to fall out of favour in a month or – even worse – if it doesn't actually look good on you?

It's a cardinal style sin we've all been guilty of at least once: dressing to suit what's in style, but not what actually suits you. Your clothes should flatter your body shape, your skin tone, your hairstyle, your eye colour and your personality. A great wardrobe is a mix of classic pieces and current trends, all personalised to be uniquely you. Knowing how to dress for your body type – and which styles to avoid – is the first step to owning your personal style.

Know your body type

Male bodies may lack the curves of female bodies, and therefore have significantly less variation, but that doesn't mean differences don't exist. Think about how often you hear fashion gurus talk about the importance of fit. An expensive garment that isn't right for your body will look bad no matter how much money you dropped on it, and an inexpensive piece will look like a million bucks if the fit is right. The key to it all is identifying your body shape and learning how to enhance it. Most men fit into one of these five body type categories:

1. The Heavy Lifter

His chest and shoulders are broad, but his hips and waist are narrower. There is a significant difference between top and bottom, with a wide upper body and a smaller lower body, that is frequently the result of regular "get massive" workouts.

2. The Athlete

Picture those incredibly fit Olympic chaps. The Athlete is broad across the chest and shoulders, and narrow in the waist and hips

3. The Block Man

Gets his name because his torso takes the shape of a rectangle, with little difference between the width of his chest/shoulders and the width of his waist/hips.

4. The Happy Eater

If the Heavy Lifter is an inverted triangle, the Happy Eater turns the triangle right-side up. His chest and shoulders are narrower than his waist and hips, making his lower half appear larger than the upper.

5. The Cuddly Teddy Bear

You know exactly what this guy looks like. The Cuddly Teddy Bear is round and huggable, frequently with narrower shoulders and slim legs. This is probably where we're all headed eventually, so it's a shape worth understanding even if it's not you yet.

How to dress

The Heavy Lifter

 As a Heavy Lifter, your large frame is somewhat imbalanced. Your wider upper torso and narrower lower half can be evened out by your wardrobe. The goal is to draw attention to your hips while reducing attention to your upper chest. Focus on pulling the eyes downwards, avoiding bu lk on the upper body, and adding a little extra to your legs. FYI – Gerard Butler is a great example of this body type. Sparta!

Put the focus on the right places. V-necks narrow the chest and draw the eye down. Stripes across the stomach and detailing around the hips (think belts or pockets) also help emphasise the parts that need it.

Go graphic. Simple graphic prints and logos will get attention, taking it away from your more substantial upper chest. Any kind of details, prints, or eye-catching colours on the shoulders, on the other hand, will draw the eyes to the wrong area.

Scratch the skinny stuff. Skinny leg cuts will make the top half of your body appear even wider. Try straight or more relaxed slim cuts instead, to balance out your proportions. You can also use statement trousers to lure the eye away from your broad shoulders. If you can, go for tapered jeans.

Expert tip from Godwin Hili (director, Godwin Charli)

You probably enjoy wearing most garments close to the body however, tailored garments can look pretty silly if worn too small. This is not to say a Slim Fitting or European fit is out of the question. You just need to accept that most read-to-wear brands will not accommodate this shape off the rack. Similar to the 'Athlete', it's crucial to fit the shoulders and chest and accept that the waist and/or hips will need to be narrowed. This allows for more accurate sculpting of the back region and accentuating of the smaller waist. A schoolboy error is to find a garment that fits your small waist because you like how 'tight' it feels, only to bust out in the chest and awkwardly split the seat of a pant.

The Athlete

Good news for you, Athlete types: you're the fit bastards that make everyone else seethe with jealousy. Because your upper and lower body are already well balanced, your shape is much easier to dress than others. You can play with colours and cuts without having to worry much about whether or not everything is properly in proportion. Football players and athletes are a good example for this body type.

Be daring. Take advantage of the gifts Mother Nature gave you and experiment with your wardrobe. Your body was made for making a statement, so don't be afraid to take risks (as long as you still feel comfortable in your clothes).

Prints and colours were practically made for you. There's no need to be conservative unless the occasion demands it. Bold colours, prints and patterns are just as well suited to your body shape as solid colour basics.

Play around with other things. If you don't have to worry about your body type, you're free to explore other interesting ways to spruce up your wardrobe. Try out new trends, take new cuts for a test drive, investigate new textures and fabric combinations, and work on understanding how to flatter other things – your complexion, your hair cut and colour, etc – instead.

Godwin's expert tip

Lucky you. Sometimes referred to as an 'inverted triangle' shape because of the obviously smaller waist in comparison to the upper body, it's imperative that a jacket fits you across the shoulders and chest. A slim fit or European fit is a good starting point for this body type. Unless the garment has been made-to-measure, the waist and hips of the jacket must be narrowed to accentuate this physique by taking it in. Trousers should be tailored without being too slim and shirts should be a slim fit or contain darts. It's all about getting the proportions and balance correct, to avoid looking like you will topple over.

The Block Man

For the Block Man, the primary aim is to add shape where there isn't much to begin with. There's only so much you can do to physically alter your body, but wearing the right kind of clothing can do wonders for creating the illusion of having a different body type. When dressing, a little style sleight-of-hand will make your shoulders seem wider while making your lower torso appear narrower.

Choose your prints carefully. A print that imitates your rectangular shape – like a geometric pattern – will emphasise the issue you're trying to correct. Well placed prints or colour, however, can be an effective way to enhance the upper portion of your body.

Layer thoughtfully. Adding clothing is the easiest way to add bulk to your body. Shirts, knitwear and scarves can be used to widen the chest and shoulders while narrowing your lower torso.

Use structure. Here's your chance to put shoulder pads to good use. Structured blazers and jackets add the extra weight your shoulders need. For bonus points, have a tailor take the sides in or thin the jacket's arms.

Godwin's expert tip

Its important here to clearly define your upper and lower body components. Clever tailoring can achieve a more sculptured look. Look for a tailored jacket with a more padded shoulder to give the impression of broader shoulders. Ensure that the sleeve width of the jacket is narrow as well as the area between the under arm and waist. Your goal should be to create the illusion of shape throughout the upper body.

The Happy Eater

Again, your wardrobe is your opportunity to correct the imbalances in your natural body shape. For Happy Eaters, that means wearing clothing that adds some substance to a sloping shoulder line and smaller chest. What you wear should reduce the effect of a lower half that appears wider than your upper body. Streamlined cuts and flattering colours are important for you.

Enhance and emphasise your shoulders. Steer clear of polo necks and narrow crew-necks because they decrease shoulder with, and opt for structured tailored blazers and jackets instead. Single-breasted and button-down styles will also help streamline your torso.

Don't put the focus on your stomach. Horizontal stripes across the stomach are a definite no, as is any kind of outerwear with details (like pockets) that draw attention to the stomach area. Dark colours will look best on your triangular shape.

Give your lower body a little more heft. Wear trousers with a straighter leg. Skinny or heavily tapered trousers will widen the central part of your body, which is exactly the opposite effect you're going for.

Godwin's expert tip

Keep it structured and tailored through the upper body. Neglecting this will only emphasis your mid section and you don't want that. Accompany this with straight leg trousers to balance out the look. Have fun in winter layering with simple knitwear underneath blazers and coats, giving the impression of a broader chest and shoulder region.

The Cuddly Teddy Bear

As a Cuddly Teddy Bear, the majority of your mass is concentrated at the centre of your body, making your arms, shoulders and legs look disproportionately slim. To make your body appear more defined, you must add shape to your shoulders and wear clothing that appears to lengthen your torso. Beware of anything that shortens you in any way.

Stripes are your friends (sometimes). Vertical stripes and pinstripes will instantly lengthen your body, but horizontal stripes will make you appear rounder.

Don't draw attention to your waist (or lack thereof). Any kind of statement belt will attract attention to your waist and highlight your widest point. A printed or textured piece in a darker hue is a better way to add flattering interest to an outfit.

Length and fit are hugely important. Be sure that your sleeves and trousers are the correct length and fit well. They should add shape and definition to your body without making your limbs appear shorter.

Godwin's expert tip

It's a common mistake to give up on tailored clothing and wear oversized pieces. Focus on comfort with a tailored edge. In other words, the garments should fit well across the shoulders, not be too roomy through the sleeve and underarm, and not be too tight across the waist region or lower half of the body. Avoid jackets that are short, ensuring a longer front balance. Again, its all about balance and drawing the eye away from the belly region.

Weddings in Samoa

Weddings in Samoa are wonderfully romantic and Samoa is a Pacific destination that more than live up to the photographs – white sand beaches, warm turquoise waters, and lush tropical rainforests. Couples can choose to marry in a church, on a beach or beside a waterfall in a stress-free atmosphere that is part of fa’a Samoa (the Samoan way).

Catholic, other denominational weddings and civil ceremonies can be arranged. We only recommend properties that we have personally experienced and wedding packages range from around $1000 to around $2500, depending on the location and the inclusions (some samples below). Following is an overview of some of the wedding locations.

SHERATON SAMOA AGGIE GREY’S RESORT

Aggie’s is a terrific choice for couples who invite guests who have children (has a good Kids Club and lots of activities) and for those who would like a Catholic wedding as the 100-year-old chapel is now consecrated as a church (only Catholic weddings are allowed in the chapel).

There are other lovely wedding locations by the water or in the stunning rainforest Day Spa. There are 140 air-conditioned rooms looking out across the water to Savai’i island. The resort is five minutes from the International Airport and about half an hour from Apia.

Couples can choose to marry at sunrise or sunset and celebrate with a romantic dinner or party with guests under the stars. As well as a range of ceremony locations there are a number of celebration/reception options. Just email for more details.

SINALEI REEF RESORT & SPA

Having undergone major renovations and refurbishment following the September 2009 tsunami, Sinalei is now even more ‘special’. The ‘catch phrase’ used by the resort is “Simply Sinalei” and Sinalei is simply stunning. Set in 33 acres of lush gardens on the south coast of Upolo (45 minutes from the airport and 30 minutes from Apia) there are just 27 fales with two restaurants, swimming pool, golf course, tennis and watersports (swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, fishing and diving). The beachfront fales are superb with an enclosed atrium with outdoor shower and large deck looking out to the ocean. Both the resort and manager, Sose Alexander, exude casual elegance. There are various wedding options to choose from – from a church wedding to canoe wedding to a sunset beach ceremony. Sinalei makes weddings special for couples by themselves or those who invite guests (adults only).

COCONUTS BEACH CLUB

Coconuts Beach Club is located not far from Sinalei on the south coast of Upolu. Unlike Sinalei, it allows children but it also has Samoa’s only overwater fales (bungalows). There are also villas, suites and beach fales.

Coconuts is owned by Americans and prices wedding packages in US dollars. Wedding packages start at $1500 and you can step up to a package that includes photography and a Samoan string band to a package that includes spa pampering and a romantic dinner to the full-on ‘Samoan Experience’. Email us for more details. Religious ceremonies can also be arranged.

There is a minimum five-night stay at the resort for couples wanting to marry at Coconuts.

SEABREEZE RESORT

Seabreeze is along the coast from Sinalei and Coconuts, is owned by Wendy and Chris Booth who left Australia in 2005 to embark on the adventure of a lifetime and they are still living that adventure.

Seabreeze is adults only and all villas have ocean, lagoon or reef views. The Honeymoon Point House is particularly special.

A minimum five-night stay applies for Seabreeze wedding packages and ceremonies can be religious or non-religious. The packages can include a a champagne breakfast to start the day, a beach ceremony, local warrior escort and a local string band to serenade. At certain time of the year the resort may offer a free wedding (subject to seven nights accommodation being booked.

SALETOGA SANDS RESORT

Saletoga Sands is also on the south coast of Upolu. Owned by Kiwis Lou and Gavin Brightwell the resort is a result of them following a dream to build a contemporary but casual tropical resort in a stunning location. Right on the beach with a swimming pool and a range of accommodation options to suit couples and families, Saletoga is ideal for wedding with family and friends attending.

There is a well-priced tropical wedding package for two, a deluxe package that includes a traditional Samoan Warrior escort and the Le Tiamane all-inclusive package that includes four nights’ accommodation for the couple, the ceremony, three course reception and three-hour beverage package for 20 guests for just NZD$6280.

LE LAGOTO RESORT

Some visitors to Samoa only go to the main island of Upolu, but there are lots of rewards not far away on the northern island of Savai’i. It’s a 10 minute flight or a 90 minute ferry ride. It is scenically beautiful and, believe it or not, it is even more laid back than Upolu! Le Lagoto is a lovely resort and, not surprisingly, Le Lagoto in Samoan means ‘sunset’ – it is a lovely spot for a wedding!

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And finally, for now…

SAMPLE WEDDING PACKAGES

SINALEI REEF RESORT & SPA CANOE WEDDING

Inclusions

• Decoration of Canoes
• Registration
• Celebrant/Minister
• Photographer
• Brides Bouquet
• Brides Head-dress (Pale)
• Ula (Floral necklace – Groom)
• Village Serenaders
• Champagne Meal for two

Optional Extras

• Wedding Cake
• CD ROM (photography/compilation)
• Video Taping

AGGIE GREY’S LAGOON BEACH RESORT & SPA WEDDING PACKAGE

Inclusions

• Personal Wedding Coordinator
• String Band Greeting on arrival with leis at the Resort
• Private Return Airport Transfers
• VIP Express Check In at the Resort
• Champagne and Fresh Fruits in your Deluxe Ocean View Room on arrival
• Traditional Samoan Kava Ceremony on your Chosen day

Ceremonial Arrangements

• Traditional Samoan Garments for Bride and Groom
• Fresh Leis for Bride and Groom
• Tropical Flower gown for the Bride and Groom
• Flame Torches for Sunset or Sunrise Wedding
• A beautiful archway of flowers
• Sarong for Bride and Groom
• Planting of tree of love or Niu on the Romantic Island getaway
• Photographer with 40 photos in a beautiful tapa cloth wedding album
• Champagne Breakfast for Sunrise Wedding or Champagne Dinner for Sunset Wedding by the beach
• Marriage Celebrant or Pastor

LE LAGOTO WEDDING PACKAGE

Inclusions

• Special ceremony venue with floral arch
• Pastor or Celebrant to conduct the ceremony
• All marriage licence and registration requirements
• Bouquet for bride & 1 bridesmaid (if any)
• Buttonhole for groom & best man (if any)
• Ulas- floral necklaces for bride & groom
• 2 witnesses
• Special setting for dinner
• Romantic dinner for 2 – from A la carte menu ( entrée, main course & dessert each)
• Wedding coordination
• 1 Bottle champagne

There are special packages for couples inviting guests.

Wedding Drinks - Groom

Most wedding receptions involve liquid refreshment. If your reception is in a venue which takes care of everything for you (such as a hotel) then all you really need to do is decide which drinks to serve, and whether you want to have a pay bar later in the evening or continue to provide free drinks all night.

If your reception is somewhere else, like a marquee, then a bit more planning is required:

• You may need to purchase all the wedding drinks yourself and transport them to the venue (see “Booze Cruise” below).
• You will also need serving staff, although if you are using outside caterers then they will usually be able to arrange this for you.
• Also you will need a “bar” at the end of the evening. Again, most wedding caterers will be able to set up and run a small bar, even if it’s just a table in the corner of a room.

What to offer your guests on arrival

It’s a good idea to welcome people to your reception with a drink. The traditional choice is champagne, but sparkling wine is an alternative. For summer weddings, Pimms and lemonade in long glasses works very well. Make sure you have a non-alcoholic option. Orange juice is a safe bet.

During the meal

If you are providing a meal at your reception – and most couples do – then you’ll probably want to serve wine at the same time.

Choose the wine to match the food. If you have caterers involved they should be able to advise you. When you’re choosing wine for a large gathering it pays not to be too adventurous. You might be a big fan of sweet German Rieslings, but plenty of your guests won’t be.

Again, make sure you have a non-alcoholic option. Water is generally fine (put it on the table either in jugs with ice, or bottled). Elderflower pressé is also a classic wedding soft drink.

If you are having speeches at any point in the day then it is traditional to provide champagne for toasts. Again, sparkling wine is an alternative if you are working to a limited budget for your wedding drinks.

After the meal – on site bar?

If your reception venue has a bar already on site, you don’t have to worry too much about this. You will, however, need to decide whether to have a free bar all evening, or to ask your guests to pay for their own drinks at some point.

Providing a free bar can leave a hefty bill at the end of the evening, but many couples feel uncomfortable about asking people to buy their own drinks. One option is to put a certain amount of money behind the bar and ask guests to pay once it runs out. This one boils down to personal choice.

After the meal – DIY bar

If you or your caterers are arranging a bar, then you shouldn’t really need to ask guests to pay. Compared to the other costs of a wedding, it is surprisingly cheap to provide enough wedding drinks for a large group of guests, particularly if you do a run to Calais 

For white wine, a dry Sauvignon Blanc is a good choice, and it goes with most food. New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs are generally good quality and not too expensive. For red wine, most people will enjoy a medium-bodied Spanish Rioja, and you can match it with pretty much any meal.

The golden rule here is to keep it simple. Obviously there should be plenty of soft drinks. Coke, lemonade and one or two types of juice is fine. Orange juice is pretty compulsory. Cranberry juice also goes down well. Make sure you continue to provide water too.

Spirits can be tricky if you are setting up your own bar. Buying enough spirits to give your guests a decent choice is expensive, and it is hard to judge how much and what quantity and type of mixers you will need. Wine and beer are fine for most wedding bars.

You can use up any leftover wine from the meal, assuming you have eaten beforehand. You might then want to give people a change by having different wines for the rest of the evening. Remember that the best wines should be served with the meal, and not wheeled out at 10pm when many of your guests will not be in the best state to appreciate them!

For beer, a one type of lager and one type of ale is plenty. Ale should be served in a glass – for lager it’s easiest to hand them out in the bar in bottles.

How much?

There are a few rules of thumb that will help you decide how much to buy:

• For wine to accompany a meal, half a bottle per person is a good guide.
• For the split between red and white wine, fifty percent white and fifty percent red is a safe bet, although in summer people will drink slightly more white than red so it’s better to aim for 60/40.
• For champagne, one bottle will serve 6 people, or 7 at a push. For toasts you will only need one glass per person.

For everything else, and in particular for the bar afterwards, you need to estimate based on your knowledge of your guests and how much they like to drink! It’s always better to buy too much than too little, as you can always keep what‘s left over, or give it to friends or relatives. Leftover wine will obviously last for years. Most beer is good for 6-12 months, but check the use-by dates when you buy the beer to make sure it is not too close to expiry.

Wedding Flower Trends 2017

Wedding planning is in high gear for floral designers and newly engaged couples. While flower farmers plan for four distinct seasons, many floral designers observe just two: wedding season and wedding planning season. This is the time of year when Instagram feeds and Pinterest boards are flooded with ideas and inspiration for incorporating flowers into life’s biggest celebrations.

Will blush pink continue to dominate color palettes?  What new hues will see in centerpieces? Will bouquets be big and bold, or simple and elegant?  Will we see any new floral statement pieces gracing the aisles this wedding season?  While trends vary slightly from region to region, here are some of the hottest styles we see on the horizon:

FLOWERS

Fresh from the garden, seasonal flowers. For brides, there is nothing quite like clutching a bouquet filled with fresh, fragrant flowers grown with love and harvested by hand by a local farmer or designer with whom they have a personal connection. Thankfully, this trend is becoming more and more common, as awareness and interest in local, seasonal flowers continues to grow, especially among studio florists and style- and eco-conscious couples. A recent Slow Flowers survey and Industry Insights Report also confirmed the uptick in consumers’ and designers’ use of U.S.-grown and locally-grown flowers.

Dahlias, dahlias, dahlias. If the extremely high demand for Floret dahlias is any indication, we’ll be seeing dahlias dominate late summer and fall wedding designs. ‘Café au lait’ is still the queen, but other big beauties such as ‘Labyrinth’ and ‘Peaches N’ Cream’ are increasingly being sought out by discerning designers.

Old-fashioned flowers as “new” favorites. The thought of using common zinnias, carnations or mums for wedding flowers used to make some floral designers and style-conscious brides shutter. But heirloom varieties and new flower cultivars with uncommon forms and colors have turned heads and helped to change minds and attitudes. Heirloom chrysanthemums, frilly scented heirloom carnations, and ruffly scabiosa-flowered zinnias have become in fashion. Farmer-florists across the country are fighting to get their hands on limited seed and plant stock to meet the increased interest and demand.

Flowers by special request. Armed with beautiful images curated from Pinterest and Instagram, brides increasingly are asking for specific and sometimes more obscure flowers for their bouquets. Perennial favorites include: garden roses and peonies, but more recent requests include ranunculus, dahlias, lisianthus, chocolate queen Anne’s lace, seeded eucalyptus and dusty miller. These specific requests can be a challenge—and an opportunity—to explain the seasonal nature and availability of certain flowers.

COLORS

Muted, muddy & moody hues. This year, we’ll see more subdued and muted monochromatic bouquets and far fewer multicolored bouquets in bright or contrasting colors. Shades such as dusty rose, milky coffee, champagne, buttercream, apricot and moonstone will challenge floral designers and flower farmers to source blooms in these complex colors.

Another glass of red wine, please.  Whether you prefer cabernet, merlot or pinot noir, these delicious deep wine tones pair beautifully with a variety of color palettes, from bold jewel tones to soft blush pinks as well as many of the muddier hues mentioned above.  An outgrowth of the popular 2015 Pantone color of the year, Marsala, look for lots of dahlias, chocolate Queen Anne’s lace and other seasonal flowers in these more saturated hues to continue to appear in late summer and fall weddings this year.

Gray on gray. Considered the “new neutral” within the home décor world for the past few years, gray has become a staple in floral design as well. Gray pairs well with most colors and is often combined with perennial popular blush pink. Gray will continue to hold court as a popular accent color, but could move towards center stage alongside crisp white. Look for bouquets with dusty miller, seeded eucalyptus, succulents, olive branches and other gray foliage to fill your Instagram feeds this year.

Greenery as a theme. Pantone’s 2017 color of the year, Greenery, will be reflected in weddings, but in subtle, and less literal and overtly obvious ways. We predict we’ll see less focus of this specific hue of green, and more of the concept of using nontraditional greenery and foliage as a more prominent focal point in wedding decor. Greenery can be incorporated in creative ways, such as garlands of foliage stretching down the middle of Kings tables, sprigs of greens adorning place settings, greenery wreaths, chair decor and foliage backdrops for ceremony sites or photo booths.

STYLE

Wild, ‘gathered from the garden’ bouquet shapes. Traditional tight, round balls of blooms are a trend of the distant past. Stylish brides are opting for large, lush, loose bouquets with more organic forms that tend to be bigger and wider than years past. The continued popularity of boho and gypset-inspired wedding décor also support this this organic aesthetic and design style.

Luxe ribbons & unique finishing touches. A bouquet just isn’t a bouquet without a ribbon finish. Brides are looking for ways to make their bouquet more meaningful or stand out in a special way by requesting unique elements such as antique lace, a charm or cameo of a loved one, vintage handkerchiefs and multiple layers of long, ultra-luxe hand-died silk ribbon streamers.

Stylish floral wearables. Subtle, delicate floral hair accessories, have virtually replaced the big, bold floral crowns from years past. We’ll see more half halos, pretty floral hair “combs” and simple sprigs of foliage woven artfully into hairstyles this year. Another big trend will be elegant cuff wrist corsages that look and feel more like jewelry. These bangle-type bracelets will hopefully permanently replace the often reviled elastic wristlets popular at high school proms. Keep an eye out for other creative interpretations of traditional floral wearables on mothers, grandmothers and other wedding party attendants.  For the guys, this will mean mixing moreinteresting textural elements, including pods, berries & grasses alongside traditional focal flowers.

Bold and beautiful arches, chuppahs & hanging installations. More couples are choosing to say “I do” framed by foliage and flowers. Last year, we said foliage-focused backdrops would take center stage. They did. But so did arches & chuppahs. Look for a continuation of this trend for ceremony site décor. For reception site décor, we’re seeing lots of delicate foliage wreaths, floral chandeliers and other creative floral installations hung above head tables.

Less rustic and more modern décor aesthetic. We’re witnessing an evolution in wedding décor that is greatly simplified, with clean lines and a more contemporary feel. This is part of an overall movement away from country chic (think: less barnwood and burlap) and more toward an urban, industrial look (more gunmetal, mercury glass and galvanized steel).

A mix of high and low. Rather than a sea of carbon copy centerpieces, more couples are opting to mix and match their table décor. This entails alternating elevated bouquets, with long, low centerpieces, sprawling low profile compotes, or clusters of small bottles of single blooms. By choosing just a few larger statement pieces, the mix of elevated and low designs provide vertical interest without busting the budget.

Sweet treats: cake flowers.  The trend away from oversized wedding cakes and more toward sweets tables has allowed for more opportunities to creatively incorporate flowers into cake designs and table decor. Look for live flowers serving as cake toppers and more flowers and foliage used to style cakes, donut and dessert tables.  Sounds good to us!