Mazel Tov in Montauk

Along he serene shores of Montauk, The Surf Lodge played host to a truly magical wedding weekend for Natalie and Matt. For this couple, Montauk held a special place in their hearts, having shared countless cherished memories amidst its sun-kissed beaches and charming surroundings. Their wedding celebration was not just a union of love but a culmination of their journey together, set against the picturesque backdrop of one of Long Island's most beloved destinations.

Rehearsal Dinner: The festivities kicked off with an intimate rehearsal dinner, setting the tone for the joyous days ahead. Surrounded by loved ones, Natalie and Matt shared laughter and stories, building excitement for the moments to come. The air was filled with anticipation as guests mingled, savoring the anticipation of the main event.

Exploring Montauk: The following day granted guests the freedom to explore the enchanting offerings of Montauk. From leisurely strolls along the coastline to indulging in local delicacies, everyone had the opportunity to soak in the beauty and charm of this coastal haven. Memories were made as friends and family wandered through quaint streets and soaked up the sun, creating new memories intertwined with old.

Beachside Ceremony: Under a canopy of blue skies and billowing white clouds, Natalie and Matt exchanged vows beneath a breathtaking white rose chuppah on the glistening sands of Montauk. With the vast expanse of the ocean as their witness, they pledged their love and commitment to each other, surrounded by the gentle whispers of the sea.

Custom Tent Reception: As day turned into night, the celebration continued with a reception adorned with a custom tent, ensuring that no rain could dampen the spirits of the newlyweds and their guests. Laughter and music filled the air as loved ones dined and danced beneath the starlit sky, creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Beach Bonfire After Party: The festivities didn't end with the last dance. As the evening wore on, the party migrated back to the beach, where a crackling bonfire awaited. Wrapped in blankets under a blanket of stars, guests shared stories and toasted marshmallows, basking in the warmth of friendship and love.

Natalie and Matt's wedding weekend at The Surf Lodge in Montauk was nothing short of a fairytale come to life. From the intimate moments shared with loved ones to the grandeur of the beachside ceremony, every detail was a testament to their enduring love and the beauty of Montauk. As they embarked on this new chapter of their lives together, they carried with them the memories of a weekend filled with love, laughter, and the magic of Montauk.

Planner https://skylarardeneventsanddesign.com/contact

Photography https://www.vikmphoto.com/

Florals https://www.brideandblossom.com/

Rentals elitepbsevents.com

Venue thesurflodge.com

Band Creationsmusic.com

A Winter Wedding at the Historic Harold Pratt House: Jules and David's Love Story

Jules and David's love story culminated in a beautiful winter wedding at the enchanting Harold Pratt House on the Upper East Side. The couple was captivated by the historic charm and moody romantic ambiance of the venue, setting the stage for an unforgettable celebration.

As guests arrived, they were greeted by the elegant facade of the Harold Pratt House, a perfect backdrop for a winter wedding. Jules and David exchanged vows under a simplistic chuppah, with a live duo serenading them as they walked down the aisle, adding a touch of magic to the moment.

Following the ceremony, guests mingled during cocktail hour in the cozy library space, enjoying signature drinks and hors d'oeuvres. The atmosphere was filled with warmth and laughter as loved ones shared in the joy of the newlyweds' union.

The reception was a sight to behold, with each table adorned with intricate designs featuring touches of winter fruits and deep hues, perfectly capturing the season's essence. The couple's partial planning and design direction ensured that every detail reflected their unique love story.

As the evening unfolded, guests were treated to a sumptuous feast and lively entertainment. A live band set the mood, filling the air with music that had everyone on their feet. But the highlight of the night came when the groom took to the stage with his friends and delivered a captivating live performance, showcasing his talent and love for his bride.

Jules and David's winter wedding at the Harold Pratt House was more than just a celebration; it was a testament to their love, commitment, and the start of a beautiful journey together. And as the night came to a close, it was clear that their love would continue to warm the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to share in their special day.

Venue Harold Pratt House

Photography hazel eyes photograph

Planner skylar arden events

Florals stems brooklyn

Band One Love

Ceremony musicians Garret & Tamara

Wedding at James Burden Kahn Mansion on The Upper East Side

Jen and Nathan's wedding was a magical affair filled with love, tradition, and unforgettable moments. The couple chose the stunning James Burden Kahn Mansion on the upper east side of Manhattan as the backdrop for their special day, setting the stage for an elegant and timeless celebration.

The festivities kicked off at the Pierre Hotel, where close family and friends gathered to witness the couple exchange vows in a traditional Chinese ceremony. Against the backdrop of the hotel's elegant surroundings, Jen and Nathan declared their love for each other, surrounded by the people who mattered most to them.

The festivities kicked off at the Pierre Hotel, where close family and friends gathered to witness the couple exchange vows in a traditional Chinese ceremony. Against the backdrop of the hotel's elegant surroundings, Jen and Nathan declared their love for each other, surrounded by the people who mattered most to them.

The highlight of the evening came during the reception, as guests were treated to a breathtaking display of florals that adorned the space. From cascading centerpieces to delicate bouquets, the flowers added an extra touch of romance and beauty to the atmosphere.

But perhaps the most memorable moment of the night came when Nathan surprised Jen with a special song dedicated to her. As he took the stage, the room fell silent, captivated by his heartfelt performance. It was a moment of pure love and emotion, one that Jen and Nathan will cherish for a lifetime.

Photography ramone shot

Venue Burden Kahn Mansion

Planner Skylar Arden Events & Design

Florals Blue Jasmine Floral

Catering Dish Food

Eclectic colorful wedding at Battello Jersey City

One of the most striking features of the day was the bride's bold choice of pink hair, a reflection of her vibrant personality and spirit. She epitomized confidence and individuality as she walked down the aisle to meet her soulmate.

But the uniqueness of this wedding didn't end there. Accompanying the couple down the aisle was their beloved furry friend, a cherished member of their family. As they exchanged vows surrounded by their loved ones, their four-legged companions stood by their side, a symbol of loyalty, companionship, and unconditional love.

Supporting the couple's vision of a local celebration, every aspect of the wedding was carefully curated with vendors from New Jersey, Jersey City, and Hoboken. From the exquisite floral arrangements bursting with vibrant colors to the delectable cuisine featuring locally sourced ingredients, each detail showcased the rich tapestry of talent and craftsmanship within the community.

As the sun dipped below the horizon and the evening unfolded, guests danced beneath the stars, laughter filled the air, and memories were etched into the hearts of all who attended. It was a celebration of love, unity, and the beauty of embracing what makes each moment truly special.

In the end, our couple’s wedding was more than just a union of two souls—it was a vibrant tapestry of love, color, and connection. It was a testament to the power of embracing individuality, cherishing local communities, and honoring the bonds that unite us all.

As they embark on this new chapter of their journey together, may their love continue to shine brightly, illuminating the world with its warmth and beauty, just like the radiant hues of their unforgettable wedding day at Battello on the Jersey City waterfront.

Venue https://www.battellojc.com/

Planner https://skylarardeneventsanddesign.com/

Linens bbjlatavola.com

Florals https://www.apetaltopeddle.com/

Three day event weekend at Gather Greene in the Catskills

In the realm of weddings, couples are continuously seeking unique ways to celebrate their love and create unforgettable memories with their loved ones. One trend that has been gaining popularity is the concept of a multi-day wedding celebration. Imagine spreading the joy and festivities across an entire weekend, indulging in different experiences each day. Today, we delve into the enchanting world of a three-day wedding extravaganza, where each moment is carefully crafted to delight and entertain guests from start to finish.

Welcome Dinner Under the Stars The festivities kick off with a laid-back and intimate welcome dinner, setting the tone for the magical weekend ahead. Picture this: a charming outdoor setting adorned with twinkling lights and the comforting crackle of a bonfire. Guests mingle and unwind as they indulge in delectable delights served straight from a food truck, offering a tantalizing array of gourmet street food. From savory tacos to mouthwatering sliders, there's something to satisfy every palate. As the night unfolds, laughter fills the air, and friendships are forged around the warm glow of the fire, setting the stage for the days to come.

The Wedding Extravaganza As the sun rises on day two, anticipation fills the air as guests prepare for the main event—the wedding ceremony. Set against a picturesque outdoor backdrop, the bride and groom exchange vows surrounded by nature's breathtaking beauty. Following the heartfelt ceremony, guests are invited to savor an outdoor cocktail hour, where refreshing libations flow freely, and guests mingle amidst fragrant blooms and lush greenery.

As evening descends, the celebration kicks into high gear with an unforgettable after-party. A disco ball casts shimmering patterns across the dance floor as guests dance the night away under the star-studded sky. And what better way to refuel after hours of dancing than with piping hot slices of pizza served fresh from a wood-fired oven? With each bite, memories are made, and bonds are strengthened, culminating in a night filled with love, laughter, and endless joy.

A Farewell Brunch and Playful Lawn Games As the weekend draws to a close, there's still time for one last hurrah—a casual brunch where guests gather to reminisce about the unforgettable moments shared over the past few days. Against a backdrop of blooming flowers and sprawling green lawns, guests indulge in a leisurely spread of brunch favorites, from fluffy pancakes to savory breakfast burritos.

But the fun doesn't end there! After brunch, guests are invited to partake in a variety of playful lawn games, from cornhole to giant Jenga, fostering friendly competition and laughter-filled moments. As the afternoon sun casts a golden glow over the festivities, couples and families bond over shared experiences, creating lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come. A three-day wedding celebration is more than just an event—it's an immersive experience that brings together loved ones to celebrate love, laughter, and the joy of togetherness. From the cozy camaraderie of a welcome dinner around a bonfire to the exhilarating dance floor antics beneath a disco ball, each moment is a testament to the couple's love story and the bonds that unite us all. So here's to love, laughter, and happily ever after—a weekend to remember, forever etched in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to share in the magic.

Planning Skylar Arden Events

Venue Gather Greene

Florals Heart and soil flowers

Photography Chellise Michael Photography

Why day of coordination doesn't exist and the difference between an in house coordinator and an event coordinator.

Why day of coordination doesn’t exist & the difference between and in house event coordinators and what we do.

If I had a dollar for every time I received an email saying “I just need day of coordination” I would have my mortgage paid off and a fully ran animal rescue space set and running. I’m exaggerating but it’s very frequent. Unfortunately this term is used so often is it leads event planner owners to either take the time to educate or for some not bother responding at all.

Some potential clients understand “day of” doesn’t actually mean day of while others reach out to us explaining that they can do all the prior work and hand off docs literally day of. For a full licensed business that has built a reputation with vendors and venues this simply isn’t possible. So what do we actually do before your event day? We set up your drive folder with very usual files such as a list of preferred vendors, guest trackers, detail trackers and more. This makes things as detailed as possible for us when we meet up at 8 weeks out. Once we “meet” on your 8 week out point we start with creating a rough draft timeline. This rough draft only usually takes a couple of hours to create. With the rough timeline in hand we start the vendor outreach with all your vendors from a shuttle or car service to your venue, florist, photographer, band and anyone else. This outreach alone take a few hours since it might take a few different outreaches before even getting a response. As soon as we get their feedback we edit the timeline as well as incorporate their timeline into ours. For some clients we are starting with a full event weekend and others we are doing the timeline from the morning hair & makeup to first look, ceremony until the biter end of breakdown. A final timeline can take us 5 to ten hours with all the vendor correspondence. Outside of the timeline we are creating a floor plan, organizing a site visit, trouble shooting and having weekly touch bases. Our files are pretty detailed and we even are informed on the color of your linen, venue lighting and making sure we get info on things like your hotel room number. The actual event day we are onsite for roughly 10-12 hours managing the vendor crew, answering questions with the in house and making sure everything is running on time. We are making sure your escort cards are in order, all items are set up correctly and probably jumping on a call with your driver to double check timing is still as per schedule. Prior to the event day we typically put in 30-50 hours depending on the clients needs and complexity of the event.

“The event space has a coordinator, so we don’t need much help.” I get this often as well. Majority of venues we work with or are on the event list of require event coordinators. Why? While we bring on roughly 20-25 events per year they are putting on hundreds and don’t have the bandwidth to answer all your emails, take numerous calls or deal with emergencies that can arise the week of. They will most likely have a vendor list for you to pick from but they aren’t going to hire said vendors for you. They aren’t going to create your hair & makeup timeline or the shuttle pickups. They aren’t going to schedule your dress or suite fitting appointments with you and they certainly aren’t going to design your event for you. They 100 percent want you to have the best day ever but they work for the venue and are more so focused on sales, food timing, in house staff etc. Majority of our events the in house coorindator leave prior to cake cutting if they are onsite day of at all. We ABSOLUTELY LOVE our in house team but our roles are very different. In fact thats why they either require planners or truly advocate for you to have one. At the end of the day we are both looking forward to a successful event and a great memories to follow!

Photography EP love

Florals A petal to peddle

Planning & Design Direction Skylar Arden Events

Venue Battello JC

#skylarardenevents #nyevenplanner #nyweddingplanner #whydayofcoordinationdoesntexsist

Kristen & David's intimate Wedding at Wave Hill

An intimate wedding day at Wave Hill

When I received an email in my inbox for help on a wedding that was just shy of three weeks I responded immediately. I knew this perspective client would really need my help with such a short window of time to gather all the details together. We had connected over the phone, contract was signed and I took over the details she had already. Her wedding was to be held at Wave Hill in Riverdale, NY. A historical, oasis in the bronx. It’s a true dream location for a planner to work. Through the upcoming weeks I helped book the remaining vendors such as musicians and became the sounding board for the hired vendors. Kristen and David waited ten years to get married so we did our best to make things as perfect as possible.

The photographers were able to sneak into the Tropical Garden of the Conservatory, grabbing bridal portraits and gorgeous moments between the couple.

Aquatic & Monocot Gardens

To follow they wandered to the the acquatic gardens to finish the final couple portraits.

The Badeken

After the Ketubah was signed, the Groom covered his bride's face with a veil. This is an ancient tradition dating back to biblical times, signifying that the Groom acknowledges he is marrying the woman beneath the veil for her soul and not merely her beauty. Kristen looked on truly happy, it seemed she was really in the moment.

The Ceremony

The pergola overlooking the Hudson River provided a stunning view of the Hudson as the sun set the lighting was truly breathtaking. My associate and I looked on in awe. The sky was like a painting and a wedding day gift. in my eyes.

The Reception

Friends from around the world gathered in celebration of Kristen & David. The staff at Wave Hill made sure everyone was safe and comfortable to celebrate with masks on. Those that couldn’t make it watched on via zoom. It was touching to see. It’s been a tough year for all but to witness two people being able to get married despite it all is a remarkable experience I’ll never forget.

Photography Faymous Images

Planning Skylar Arden Events

Florals Crest Florist

Catering Simply Divine

Catering Onsite Management Great Performances

Hair & Makeup Truly Happy Beauty

Let's stay in together

No matter the time of year or situation. It’s important to put the work into your relationship. It could mean something as simple as grabbing your partner’s favorite desert on the way home. Flower’s just because, remembering their friend’s birthdays or making a special night together. It’s the little things that make love lasting. At least in my book!

The ladies of Love Wed Collective and I got together in the hopes to draw some inspiration for your next date night in. The challenge was bringing together items found only in our own homes and putting each of our individual talents to work. If you know me you know I` have a craft closet composed of odds and ends. Some items and not limited to are fabric, dye, paint and things I definitely don’t need anymore. But maybe I will next year. You feel me?

I sent an inspiration board along to the girls and we independently brought the elements together. The great thing with working with vendors you know and trust is that you can give them an idea and know that they will make their magical spin on it.

The fabric was from an old backdrop I made probably a few years ago and I absolutely love painting and dying so I pulled out everything I had on hand and went to work. I started with wrapping the fabric and dying it in a deep purple. The fabric was grey so the purple didn’t pop as much as it would in white. Which I was happy about. The next day I hand painted with acrylic and water colors. I can’t wait to use this runner for years to come.

Christa our in house florist brought together glass bottles she had, candles and dried flowers for her addition. Dried flowers are a sustainable item you can use over and over again. We dig that!

Alane our in house calligrapher is a modern calligraphy genius. She used elements of dip dye and metallics as a node to the artistry brush we wanted to incorporate.

Devin our in house photographer shared a lovely evening together after a long day of work with her husband. Wine, catching up and spending time in together one on one is so important for all us.

So what’s your favorite date night in? My husband and I dedicate one night or day during the week. We pick movies we want to watch together, food we are excited about to order or make. Recently I gave in to his love of board games and maybe they’re not so bad. Happy Friday lovers!

Our story

After years of putting off starting a blog, I kept hearing amongst conversations with my peers lately “If you’re not going to do it now, you’re never going to do it.” I’ve often hesitated to start a blog because one I don’t think I’m the best writer and two there’s that little bit of insecurity wondering if anyone is actually going to read it. So I decided to write about how Skylar Arden became and where our name came from because I’m often asked.

We are going to start back in my early twenties, now into my thirties it seems like yesterday but also so long ago at the same time. I graduated art school in Brooklyn from Pratt Institute and really had no idea what I was going to do for work. I had drawing skills, painting and I was versed enough in graphic design. That’s gotta equal a job right? NYC has a cut throat job market but somehow I ended up as an assistant designer in a handbag company. I was so excited, I was able to be surrounded by bags, quietly sketching all day and using my basic graphic skills. What could be better?! This story ends up being short lived because within a couple months span this cute boutique company had a merger and let the majority of us go. Back to square one and I had to think fast. My parents always offered up coming back home to MA but never to help pay a bill. I ended up luckily getting a cocktail waitress job, retail and some freelance in fashion. The juggle was tough but NY rent isn’t cheap. As the years passed spending some time in the service industry I ended up planning some Indie Rock Events. As a music lover this was a pretty amazing thing to fall into my lap. One night while taking a break outside and having one of those late night deep conversations with a bouncer I worked with over the years. His eyes lit up and He was like “I got it! I know what you should focus on for work. Wedding planning!” Though this sounded charming and something I'd love to do I was someone at the time who played it safe and couldn’t imagine having my own business. I needed health insurance, I needed stability. Around this same time I invested in a call with a really amazing psychic who has sadly since passed away. During our call he brought up twice that I’d do well in event planning and designing a room. I still couldn’t wrap my mind around such a leap so I stayed in fashion. The years to follow I hit roadblock after roadblock, lay off after lay off. A friend of mine who I deemed incredibly brave started her own event planning company and quickly “blew up”. She needed extra help so I figured why not? I worked alongside her on the weekends and though the work was hard in every way possible, I loved it.

Did I mention at this time I was also engaged and working full time in fashion still? My boyfriend of four years proposed and I was deeply in love with the planning process. So why not add another layer of work to my life? I signed up to be certified in event planning and spent my nights working on the course homework, interning and set my mind to open a business. Two months prior to our wedding day….I was laid off. Yes again. This was the nail in the coffin for me. A company I spent three years of my time with let me go. I didn’t receive a work shower or even a card, rather paperwork and cobra forms. I felt the only person that would be 100% loyal to me at that point (sorry husband :)) was myself. I created my site, filed with NY state to register my business. I get asked often where the name Skylar Arden came from. Sky was a name I first heard on All My Children soap opera. During the summers when I was little we’d take swimming lessons and go home for lunch. Normally around the time this show was on. The character sky was a pretty red head and I thought if i ever had a child I’d like for them to have that name. Arden is my best friend’s and associate planner’s favorite name. After a few glasses of wine one night I asked if it would be okay to combine the two and she was officially born.

My husband amongst all of this and I were married that September and it was the most beautiful party I’ve thrown to this day. It was a little wild, lots of laughs and full of love. I launched my business alongside my nearest and dearest that following January. The rest as they say is history. It hasn’t been easy and it’s taken a lot of trial and error to get us where we are today but I’m proud of my first baby. Skylar Arden is woven so deeply into my every day. My clients are appreciative, wonderful and it’s a privilege to work alongside them. To work a year, six months sometimes less on one event and seeing the end result is the most satisfying job I’ve ever taken on. Through the years we’ve had the opportunity to work on non profit events, corporate and intimate celebrations of all kinds. As we all are all currently experiencing one of the most unprecedented times in our lives, I still feel lucky. I know we will get through this together. I can’t imagine doing anything else, so why stop? To those going through it right now, don’t give up. Don’t you dare give up. We all have our why and own road to travel, you’ll get there eventually.

See you soon friends, keep that chin up.

XOXO

Dawn