Vendor Selection

As 2012 approaches, it is a great time to think about finalizing wedding details.  What better way than to attend an upcoming bridal show in your area.

Bridal shows provide an opportunity to meet with hundreds of vendors in one location.  With so many talented vendors all competing for the opportunity to win your business, how do you go about finding the right vendors for your wedding.

If you have not already done so, request a copy of your wedding venue's vendor list prior to attending the bridal show.  Reputable vendors who have provided service at the venue and are highly recommended are listed.  You typically get the best value and they will make sure that all of your vendors are set up for the big day.

Consider your style and budget.  Choose the vendors you feel most comfortable with and that best suit your personal style.  Your vendor should listen to your ideas and offer suggestions that will enhance your wedding day vision.  Choose a minimum of three vendors for each category and set up appointments with each.

Be sure to check references and read through contracts completely before signing with any vendor.  Visit your top choices a few times to establish a relationship.  You will want to  make sure they meet your needs throughout the entire wedding planning process as well as on the wedding day.

Planning the most important day of your life takes time and dedication.  The final result will be well worth the time spent finding the perfect vendor to share in your special day!


Davina Arceneaux
Director of Catering / Wedding Specialist

Cookies, Cakes and Pies....Oh My!

Have you thought about fun ways to wow your guests at your upcoming wedding reception?  For years, the traditional tiered wedding cake has been the dessert of choice for a couple’s special day.  However, in 2012 we will see a major trend in less cakes and more dessert stations.

Couples are offering up their favorite desserts at their receptions.  From pies to cupcakes to cookies, its a buffet of beautifully displayed flavors and options for guests.

Candy displays also provide an opportunity to combine food and favor into a fun, interactive station for your guests.  More and more brides are seeing that this is one of the most popular choices for party favors.

Grooms cakes will also be making a comeback this year, going beyond sports and music themed treats and becoming nearly as elaborate as the primary wedding cake.

Consider these fun ideas when planning your dessert buffet:

Dessert Shooters - Your favorite decadent desserts are made pint size in shot glasses and served with slender spoons. 

Cookie Cupcakes - Guests enjoy a cookie cupcake tower stacked with cookies shaped in the form of cupcakes set in cupcake liners topped with freshly made buttercream & flowers for a new alternative to the wedding cake.

Davina Arceneaux

Director of Catering / Wedding Specialist

The Knot Best of Weddings - 2012

Hotel Arista is pleased to introduce our new wedding blog!

There's never been a more perfect place to celebrate your special day. Our impeccable staff is devoted to making your wedding dream a reality. With our world-class catering and stunning Grand Ballroom, you'll look around and realize that every sight, every sound and every taste, like your new spouse, is perfect for you.

 Let us take away the stress of wedding planning! Tune in weekly to view our insider tip's and seasonal trends.  We receive questions on a daily basis...some big and some small.  It is our hope to not only be able to answer the questions you might have but also provide insight on questions you may not have thought to ask.  Wedding planning can be exciting and overwelming at the same time but with advice and tips from our experts it can be fun and informative.  Our page is available not just to our brides but to anyone who has questions and wants to become more informed.  Feel free to comment on our page, we are excited to begin this journey with you and look forward to hearing back from you!

P.S. Don't forget to pick up your copy of The Knot Chicago Magazine on January 23, 2012.  We were recently selected by The Knot Chicago Magazine as a 2012 pick for "Best of Weddings."

Davina Arceneaux
Director of Catering / Wedding Specialist