Kendra's Interview on HGTV!!!!

Check out Kendra on HGTV where she gets interviewed by Ambrose Price about planning an event!!
http://www.hgtv.ca/video/ and click on The Decorating Adventures of Ambrose Price - episode entertaining.
Congrats Kendra!

Football Game is almost here...Get your tickets while you still can!

For those of you haven't purchased tickets to the upcoming football game in Buffalo, be sure to buy them soon, as they are selling out fast!

You will be given drinks and food on the limo bus, and you can bring some of your own as well.  It will be a great game (Steelers vs. Bills), you don't want to miss it...you and 45 of your friends are invited to join the fun!

Ready, set, go! Nuit Blanche this weekend...

Toronto's annual sunset to sunrise celebration of contemporary art returns to mark a five-year milestone.
Discover art in galleries, museums and unexpected places. From building façades and city parks to alleyways and heritage buildings, choose from more than 130 destinations and chart your own path.

NEW!!! Take advantage of the many interactive tools available this year. Build a personalized itinerary, use GPS technology to navigate your route with the Night Navigator app, and take the mobile version of the event website with you on the road.

When the wedding planner and the client are the same person…

Can't Fire the Bride!!

Kendra recently got engaged, and as an event planner, she had the idea of blogging her adventures as a bride and as client. Will she become the dreaded Bridezilla? If so, she can’t fire herself.

The blog will track and document the next year of planning her wedding. She’ll let you in on the inside scoop and give you tricks and tips to creating your own special day.

Please enjoy and feel free to comment!

http://cantfirethebride.wordpress.com/

 

Let us plan the wedding of your dreams....

Looking for an wedding planner in Toronto or GTA?

If you are an excited bride-to-be or the proud mother of the bride or groom, let us work with you to plan a romantic, beautiful and truly personal celebration you will always remember. Let us take the stress away by attending to all the details so you can sit back and enjoy all the big moments. Let us put our imaginations and creativity to work to produce the elegant and intimate, or fresh and fun wedding of your dreams!

Promotional offer!!
Full wedding coordination for $5,000 + HST
Package includes:

• ALL logistical aspects of the event from theme development, vendor suggestions, contract negotiations (venue, vendors etc.), site inspections, budget, décor suggestions, etiquette advice etc
  
• Rehearsal (up to 2 hours)
• Day-of management (up to 8 hours)
• Event coordinator plus an assistant onsite from set-up til tear down

More!! We’ll offer a 10% “finder’s fee” or commission for any referrals that get turned into closed business.

With over 10 years experience, the team at Gatherings will ensure a unique and professional event for 10 or 10,000. No event is too big or too small for us to tackle. We provide seamless planning and flawless execution whether you’re going for sophisticated elegance or fresh and funky. “Gatherings is one of the fastest growing event management firms in the Greater Toronto Area.” Our creative staff is committed to organizing superior events by providing clients with innovative concepts, competitive pricing, and unparalleled service.

Let's see Bills game in November?

For Tickets, call us @ 416-551-0241 or info@gatheringseventplanning.com

Port Dover Bike Rally last Friday...

Since 1981 bikers have been gathering in Port Dover, Ontario, every Friday the 13th to show off the bikes and meet other riders. Thousands of bikers and fans of bikes, and those just wanting to view the spectacle descended upon Port Dover, Ontario for the 50th Friday the 13th Ride to Port Dover.

Police and organizers estimate that more than 150,000 people - about a third of them on motorcycles - poured into the town of 6,000 on Friday, surpassing the record set in June 2008.

It has since grown into an international event that, in good weather, easily breaks the 100,000 mark for attendance.

Bikers come from as far away as the U.K., Australia and China for the spectacle. The streets, some of which are closed to car traffic, are lined with bikes from one end to the other. There are also vendors and beer tents featuring live bands.

The Boys of Summer…

Whether you're a teeny bopper or an old fart, you'll enjoy the concerts this week in the city.

I'm reminded of my 13th birthday and all I wanted to do was see NKOTN (New Kids on the Block, for those not "in the know"). They were the ultimate heart-throb. Who was your favourite? Mine was Jordan...how handsome!!! They were playing big venues around the city and now they're relegated to Casino Rama.

However, if you'd like to catch some of the latest heart-throbs, you'll find John Mayer and Michael Buble in concert this week. And for my mother, The Beach Boys....they've still got it going on. So ladies take a little trip down memory lane and check out the boys of summer. You'll be glad you did.

Kendra Court
Gatherings Event Planning

Venue: Molson Canadian Amphitheatre
John Mayer, Aug 11, 2010


Venue: Molson Canadian Amphitheatre
Backstreet Boys, Aug 14, 2010


Venue: Casino Rama
The Beach Boys, Aug 12, 2010 to Aug 13, 2010


Venue: Air Canada Centre
Michael Buble, Aug 10, 2010 to Aug 11, 2010

FastLane: Patio Event next week!

Back by popular demand, FastLane is bringing you another patio event. With the continuing hot weather, it's time to enjoy the last bit of summer but still be top of mind, so let's take our networking outside!

Date: Tuesday, August 10th, 2010
Time: 6:00pm - 9:30pm
Location: LUSSO Restaurant//Bar
207 Queens Quay West, Toronto

Lusso's 150-seat outdoor patio offers the ultimate in al fresco dining and lounging. The upper deck is as cool as gets with elegantly designed wooden benches that are more "cruise-ship-trendy" than just "patio-seating", comfy cushions, marble lounge tables and candlelit lanterns in the evening.

For tickets please click here or call 416-551-0241

$25 in advance / $35 At the door
Group Ticket Rate: Buy 4 tickets and get the 5th FREE!
Corporate Group: Purchase 5 tickets (admit 5) to 5 different FastLane events for $450.

*Your ticket includes complimentary beverage, hors d'oeuvres, a gift bag and the chance to win door prizes.

Boudoir Photography Marathon on August 15th, 2010

Gatherings Event Planning and Anthony Parazo Photography would like to invite you to our Boudoir Photography Marathon on August 15th, 2010.

This marathon is by appointment only. We will have (10) time slots beginning at 8:00 AM through to 6:00 PM

This invitation is for you and your friends. Please share this event with your network, as I know that this isn't for everyone. We will have a make-up artist and someone to add final touches to your already styled hair. The session will last about 60 minutes and will include a female stylist to assist with appearance and clothing.

We will not be doing nudes or implied nudes, so please don't ask. You may also get photographs taken with your significant other as long as they do not require a make-up application.

You will receive proofs on CD and (10) retouched and enhanced 4x6's in an album. In order to choose your photos, we will have the un-retouched version on a password protected site by August 22nd. If you place your order by August 29th we will then retouch and enhance the photo and have it ready for September 10.

Individual sessions are priced at $750, this marathon will have a special price of $350. $100 upon booking and $250 by August 7th. If you come with a friend we are extending a special of only $300 for each session. Payments will be made through e-mail money transfer.

Please visit www.anthonyparazo.com to view the BOUDOIR gallery on his site. He may be reached at (416) 948-9711 to answer any of your questions.

“Best Florist” in the latest Toronto Life...

Isn't nature just amazing?
Flowers....it cheers up our lives, it makes a room look fabulous, it demonstrates love, affection and care...

Taking care of them is a challenge that requires talent and study. I say that cause I've felt on my own skin the ups and downs of trying to make a beautiful orchid survive in my living room...or a raffia palm for instance....

I failed many times, but I love them so much that I keep trying...getting better though. You had to see my happy face some weeks ago when some friends came over to my place and commented on my pink orchid with lots of blooms...I felt so proud...

That's why I strongly admire and recommend the work of this artist, Rosemary Little, from Quince Flowers. Not for nothing is she elected the best florist by Toronto Life.


Flowers just cheer up my life!
Happy flowery summer everyone!
Renata Altrão

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Scotiabank Nuit Blanche is looking for volunteers....

About 600 volunteers are integral to the event’s annual success. Scotiabank Nuit Blanche is produced by the City of Toronto’s Special Events Office (TSE) in partnership with Toronto’s arts community. This year’s date and time are Saturday, October 2 at 7 p.m. (dusk) to Sunday 3 at 7 a.m. (dawn).

As in previous years, volunteers assist at the eight information centres and at the commissioned installations, which number 38 this year. Your assignment will depend on your skills and interests, and availability for one of the training evenings. All assignments should be in place by the end of August.

They expect all volunteers to attend the mandatory training, and to be present and active for the entire shift. You are required to send the Assignment Request Form by July 20 at the latest.

Need help? Please contact Fiona at 416-392-9315 or spevvol@toronto.ca

Fiona Lucas
Coordinator of Volunteers
Toronto Special Events Office
City Hall, 6th Floor, West Tower
100 Queen Street West, Toronto, ON M5H 2N2
Phone: 416 392-9315 / Fax: 416 395-0278
spevvol@toronto.ca

Nuit Blanche was originally conceived in Paris, France in 2002, in an attempt to bring contemporary art to the masses in public spaces. Now universally translated as 'Sleepless Night', Nuit Blanche brings more than a million people to the streets of Paris every year. In 2005, Paris organizers contacted the City of Toronto's Special Events office with an invitation to join the ranks of approximately six other European cities producing similar all-night events. The international success of Nuit Blanche continues to build each year and has expanded its reach beyond Paris to Brussels, Rome, Bucharest, Riga, Madrid, La Valette, Portugal, Tokyo, Montreal and Leeds - each offering its own version of the all-night art extravaganza.

Toronto was the first North American city to fully replicate the Paris model, and has inspired similar celebrations throughout North America, including San Francisco, New York, Miami and Chicago.

FastLane: Patio party - buy tickets now!

Patio Season has arrived, let's take networking outside!
It's time to sit back, relax and get to know one another. Join us at Ultra Supper Club for cocktails, snacks and good conversation.

Hidden behind the "ornate red doors" at Queen and Soho, Ultra, the new evolution of Ultra Supper Club - continues it's celebrated reputation for dining, cocktails, socializing and stargazing, recently reinterpreted for its ever-evolving clientele. Gracious is the new glamour...style is the new fashion. Socializing is wistful not work fuelled and hobnobbing is simply great time with cool friends.

Guests will be entertained by the live magician Dan Trommater, have the opportunity to do a henna tattoo by the artist Nadia and have great pictures taken by Anthony Parazzo.

Date: Tuesday, July 13th, 2010
Time: 6:00pm - 9:30pm
Location: Ultra Supper Club
314 Queen Street West, Toronto

For tickets please click here, or call 416-551-0251.
*Your ticket includes complimentary beverage, hors d'oeuvres, a gift bag and the chance to win door prizes.

On-line Advance: $25 each
At the door: $35
Group Ticket Rate: Buy 4 tickets and get the 5th FREE!
Corporate Group: Purchase 5 tickets (admit 5) to 5 different FastLane events for $450.

Hope to see you there!
Renata Altrão & The Gatherings Team

"Through the Garden Gate" tour this weekend!

Toronto Botanical Garden committee and Gatherings Event Planning is organizing the event "Through the Garden Gate" that will be held this weekend, June 20 & 21, 2010.

Through the Garden Gate, now in its 23rd year, is an annual garden tour organized by the Toronto Botanical Garden. Each year the tour highlights a different Toronto neighbourhood, and we are excited to have chosen 26 private gardens in THE BEACH to showcase this year.

A comprehensive garden guide outlining the unique features of each garden is provided and Toronto Master Gardeners will be located in each garden to answer questions and identify plant material. Complimentary shuttle buses continuously drive the route, giving participants the option to "hop on and hop off" at each of the gardens.

Headquarters located at:
Neil McNeil High School
127 Victoria Park Ave., Toronto, ON
(Kingston Rd. & Victoria Park Ave.)

TICKETS ON SALE
One-day Pass: Public $40; TBG members $35
Two-day Pass: Public $50; TBG members $45
(tickets are limited, advance purchase recommended)

Includes: Comprehensive Garden Guide, access to 26 beautiful private gardens and complimentary shuttle service throughout the day.

PURCHASE YOUR TICKETS TODAY!
416-551-0241 or buy tickets online

Read more here. "Tour shines spotlight on Beach's bountiful gardens."

Donkey Day this Sunday!

Donkey Day is the annual fundraiser of The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada and is being held on June 13^th, 2010 from 11am to 4pm. Gatherings is helping them to organize the event and all logistics.

The DSC is a registered charity. Since 1992 it has provided a lifelong home to donkeys and mules that have been abused, neglected or were no longer wanted. Along with being the site for this ongoing animal care, the Sanctuary Farm, with its rejuvenated wetlands and forests, serves as a backdrop for interactive humane education programs that promote the proper stewardship of animals, land and the environment.

2000 visitors from across Ontario will pass through the gates of the beautiful DSC farm, located outside Guelph, to enjoy a special afternoon in the country for animal lovers of all ages. They will have terrific entertainment by local musicians, interactive donkey activities, and so much more. And of course, there will be lots and lots of donkeys.

Date: Sunday, June 13th, 2010
Time: 11:00 am - 4:00 pm
Location: The Donkey Sanctuary of Canada (DSC)
6981 Puslinch Conc.4, RR #6 - Guelph, ON N1H 6J3 - Google Maps
Tickets: Sold at the door only - $10.00/adult, $5.00/child (age: 3-18)

May 18th 2010 FastLane “Wine and Chocolate"

Repeating April 2009’s wine and chocolate theme, FastLane once again held the event to a great success.

Wineries and agents joined us for the evening; they did sampling a variety of wines that complemented the delicious hors d’oeuvres of the evening.

Thanks to all vendors and partners for making this event more tasty and fun, and Anthony Parazo for capturing those special moments.

Stay tuned for the next event!

Theme: Patio Party
Date: July 13th, 2010
Time: 6:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Location: TBA

Renata Altrão & The Gatherings Team

Hope House fundraiser tonight!

The Hope House fundraiser was inspired by the Oscar winning film "Born into Brothels" and we are raising money to build a wonderful facility to help 100 girls from the red light district of Calcutta. Your support will allow girls to live in safety, receive an education, and escape their vicious life cycle.

There is a special BRING A FRIEND 2 for 1 ticket sales special.

For $100, receive two entrance tickets and one drink ticket per person (equal to $50 per person).

We have a terrific line-up for the evening including:

In Attendance
Oscar winning Director and Executive Producer flying into Toronto for the event.

Entertainment
Exclusive engagement with Hip Hop legend Maestro Fresh Wes from Los Angeles performing classics and new music (Let your Backbone Slide!).

Rare appearance by Juno nominated singer Ivana Santilli performing her R&B/pop hits.

World renowned DJ Rekha (as seen on CNN and David Letterman) from New York City with Dhol Circle drummers.

Drinks and Delicious Food
Tickets will also include two bevvies and catering by Babaluu Supperclub, Palais Royale, Cheesecake Lolli's and Couture Cupcakes.

And that's not all! Enter a world inspired by India's magic with Fantasy Lounge, Fortune Tellers and Tarot Card readers, a Maharani's Salon (Henna Beauty Bar & Make-up Artistry), Fashionistas Shopping Haven, Photography Expo, and much more!

Event Details
Date: Thursday, May 27, 2010
Time: 8:30pm - 12am
Location: Palais Royale, 1601 Lake Shore Boulevard W

To buy tickets http://torontohopehouse.eventbrite.com/ or telephone 647-801-3159.

VIP guest at Gatherings...

Guess who?
Spencer Miller!!
He came for a quick visit and spent the afternoon with us...it was great to chat with him, listen to his stories and ideas...he always inspiring and making people laugh.

Spencer Miller is a motivational speaker, hosts his own radio show called "Sounding Off With Spencer Miller", is an entrepreneur and author of the book "The Man Without Boundaries".

Essentially 'the book chronicles his life from growing up in a dysfunctional family, dealing with a debilitating affliction, fighting against the odds to become a voice in his community, to becoming the Ambassador to people with disabilities for the Hugh MacMillan center.

Thanks Spencer for the visit!
Renata Altrão & The Gatherings Team

Dragons' Den Brett Wilson and me...

Photo by Timothy Grotrian

I had the honour to meet and listen to Brett Wilson last week at The Rostie Rainy Lake.

He spoke to a group of students and business owners. His inspirational talk touched on entrepreneurship & goal setting.

W. Brett Wilson (born on July 1, 1957) is a Canadian entrepreneur, philanthropist, and panelist on the CBC Dragons' Den.

Known as the newest member of the CBC's Dragon's Den, Brett Wilson's knowledgeable, energetic and down-to-earth nature has endeared him to many. He has been a key player in the development and success of a number of investment-based companies including FirstEnergy Capital Corporation and the Prairie Merchant Corporation. Brett's extensive entrepreneurial experience, made him an ideal fit for the Dragon's Den, where he has offered invaluable advice, support and funding for a number of entrepreneurial ideas. In addition to his professional success, he is one of Canada's most significant philanthropists, having raised or helped to raise millions of dollars for non-profit organizations.

It was awesome to meet him :)

Kendra Court
Gatherings Event Planning

Places to Gather...

We will start a series of posts called "Places to Gather" and highlight new venues in the city. Hope you like it.

The first one is the newly renovated Luna Lounge, an upscale restaurant located at Lawrence and Avenue Road, Toronto, ON.

The 150-person, 3000 square foot space has been completely renovated and re-designed by acclaimed design company HE Designs. The venue features 3 intimate bar areas, plus front & back outdoor patios.

Headed by Chef Mathew Alexander, the lounge features an exciting Tapas menu of small food items that includes key menu dishes such as Jerked Australian Lamb Pops, Seafood Tian, Stuffed Zucchini Flowers and Beef Carpaccio. A wide arrange of jazz, rhythm & blues, soul, funk & rare-grooves serves as the perfect musical backdrop.

Let us know if you like this place. :)
Renata Altrão & The Gatherings Team