Simply Stunning

This amazing tower of colour is in fact a bright purple chocolate fountain! And yes, the yummy lilac sweetness cascading down its sides is still safe to eat/ lick off the soft marshmallow you are going to dip into it... Who wouldn't be tempted to try that? Only one of the many fun gadgets which Simply Stunning hire out for special occasions.

Their stand at the expo attracted crowds of curious visitors and they were delighted with the outcome of their first FAB Bridal Expo:

“Not sure of what to expect as a first time exhibitor, we prepped ourselves for weeks on end, hoped for the best and WOW did all the hard work pay off! Our stand was huge success and we are receiving enquiries on a day to day basis.”

Simply Stunning were thrilled with the support and positive response from the public, they enjoyed interacting with the other exhibitors and praised for the coordinators of FAB for arranging “such a well organised event with a touch of class, elegance and style.”

Simply Stunning specialises in the hiring of custom-colour chocolate fountains, cocktail/slush puppy machines, popcorn machines and more.

At the moment the cocktail/ slush puppy machines are one of their most popular items, along with another innovative idea: printing on flowers. This service is also a favourite - clients choose a design, logo or message to be imprinted on the petal of the flower. To demonstrate the look, Simply Stunning prepared some ‘FAB’ roses, complete with colour printing...

To find out more about flower printing, chocolate fountains and some of their other unique services go to http://www.facebook.com/SimplyStunningSA

Jazz Between Friends

There are few sounds that can conjure up an amorous or celebratory mood as effectively as a live jazz ensemble. Something about listening to a bunch of skilful musicians playfully coaxing jazzy melodies out of their instruments sends us to our happy place...  Jazz Between Friends is all about creating that festive atmosphere with a talented group of musicians and impressive collection of tunes and styles.

This being the fourth year that the jazz ensemble attended FAB, they were happy to participate not only as exhibitors, but to also provide live entertainment for the visitors:

 “We value the opportunity to not only exhibit at our table on the exhibition floor, but also to give several live performances of our music throughout the course of the exhibition. This way we are able to ensure that potential clients know exactly what they can expect from Jazz Between Friends at their wedding.”


Jazz Between Friends are a Cape Town based initiative providing live musical entertainment for a variety of functions. Whether you need a romantic song for walking down the aisle, warm ambient background music or a band to be the life of the party, Jazz Between Friends has something to offer. Depending on your needs they will put together the ideal ensemble for your occasion, ranging from a duo set-up up to a big band ensemble including vocals, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, guitar, piano, bass and drums. Although Jazz Standards, Bossa Nova, Latin Jazz, African Jazz and Funk tunes comprise the majority of their impresssive 5 hour repertoire, clients can also request specific songs to be performed.

To find out more check out their website at jazzbetweenfriends.com

Compiled by Liska Kassier - ARTribe Advertising.
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Lady Marmalaide

As the vibey sounds of “Lady Marmalaide” filled the venue, wedding gowns from the bridal studio of the same name were paraded down the runway at the FAB Bridal Expo. Lady Marmalaide was one of nine participating bridal boutiques and designers in the three daily fashion shows at the expo. We chatted to Grethe le Roux who represented their Stellenbosch branch on the exhibitors floor, where some of their other wedding gowns were displayed.

“The Bridal Expo at Grand West was really a special event this year. With the live music and fashion shows, there was never a dull moment. Each exhibitor had something unique to offer and it was nice to see how passionate all the owners were about their product and stands.”

Lady Marmalaide has branches all over South Africa and is the exclusive distributer of wedding gowns by international designers Demetrios and Max Chaoul. Grethe commented on the different trends she noticed between brides from the Cape Town area, compared to those who shop at Lady Marmalaide's other branches. Cape Town brides, she says, have an appreciation for unique, “individualistic” gowns and show “very good taste” in their choice of wedding dresses. So when ordering new items for their Stellenbosch branch, they always include some of the more original, arty numbers which they know will interest their stylish clientele. She also explained that while they stock some traditional dresses as well, they reserved the more daring designs for the runway at FAB.

“Lady Marmalaide will definitely take part in this event next year!”

To find out more visit their website: http://www.ladymarmalaide.com/

Paper Doll dreams...

Paper Dolls is the nostalgic name of Tatum Kelly’s bridal fashion design studio. Yes, she was one of those little girls- spent her childhood dressing up herself, her friends ... and her dolls. Since then she has evolved into a talented designer, but never lost her knack for discovering the little girl in every woman - her inspiration for creating her beautiful designs and dreamy gowns. “ Tatum believes that whether whimsical and romantic, or sultry and elegant, there’s a "Paper Doll" in every client.”

Attending the FAB Bridal Expo had always been more of a long term plan for Paper Dolls, but this year they not only exhibited, but got involved by sponsoring 2 bridesmaid dresses for the FAB 'Win a Wedding' competition. “When I saw that FAB was offering a sponsorship deal, I jumped at the opportunity. Sponsoring garments is something that I am very used to doing and I can't wait to begin working with the winner ...”



Tatum enjoyed interacting with other exhibitors and wants to go even bigger next year: “The spot that my stall was positioned at was really great, my neighbours up and down the aisle were all so friendly...by the end of the weekend we were like old friends... I will definitely participate again, in fact, I realised that next time I need to be part of the fashion show too. What an awesome turnout those had!”


Paper Dolls specialises in: bridal couture and accessories, wedding party outfitting (mother of the bride/ bridesmaids/ flower girls), wedding gown alterations and formal wear. In Tatum's own words, the Paper Dolls style is all about creating "joyful garments and accessories, hand-stitched with old school couture methods, infused with quirky touches and topped off with ♥".



To see more of their work or to contact Paper Dolls visit www.paperdollsdesign.co.za


Compiled by Liska Kassier - ARTribe Advertising.
Contact us for any type of copywriting, such as company profiles, website content, newsletters.
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Lunchbox Event Stationery

The quirky, creative designs displayed at the Lunchbox Event Stationery stall evoked many smiles, excited discussions and general expressions of delight from visitors browsing through and discovering the variety of themed event stationery. Lunchbox thrives on out-of-the-box, which is probably why the most common phrase heard at their stall was... “Something different!”

Because many of the items had fascinating textures and shapes and intrigued visitors to explore the design further, Michaela du Toit (from Lunchbox) noted that: "One thing that we found particularly interesting was that each visitor at our stand picked up and looked at exactly the same stationery items." 

Here are some of the favourites:

The high school sweetheart theme

The citrus-flavoured "natural" theme, complete with orange tree

Lunchbox Event Stationery was one of the many first time exhibitors at the FAB Bridal Expo:

"Having visited the expo last year, we had an idea of how the various stalls were set-up, which service providers exhibited and the look of the venue. However, we had no idea what it was like to be an exhibitor and all the planning and intricacies that go along with it. Well...we can say with certainty, that we had a wonderful experience at the FAB Bridal Expo!"

Michaela was especially pleased with the positive response regarding Lunchbox's inspired and imaginative approach when it comes to design, as this showed that visitors appreciated what makes Lunchbox unique: "We thrive on designing for interesting occasions and are constantly thinking up innovative concepts to create original stationery for your event."

She also enjoys interacting with the individual clients: "We value relationships and the personal aspect the journey brings when one goes through the process of having one’s stationery designed from start to finish. We strive to convey this in our caring attitude, interest and attention to detail with each of our valued clients."  

Lunchbox Event Stationery designs, prints and produces high quality stationery for weddings, corporate events, bridal and baby showers, birthdays, anniversaries, dinner parties, teas and any other event that falls on your calendar...These stationery items include: save-the-dates, invitations, order of services and confetti packets (for weddings), menus, table seating, table numbers, table names, favours and labels.

For more information visit the website: http://lunchboxstationery.co.za/
or facebook page.



Compiled by Liska Kassier - ARTribe Advertising.
Contact us for any type of copywriting, such as company profiles, website content, newsletters.

We also do reviews on request - invite us to your next event.

Moments2Media films the FAB Bridal Expo

Jenny Himschoot from Moments2Media had a particularly action-packed time at FAB as she had the privilege of capturing the bridal expo on film! Her feedback regarding the occasion was overflowing with enthusiasm and excitement:

“WOW and WOW again! It was amazing to be part of the FAB Bridal Expo this year.  Awesome crowds, friendly, and so accommodating...great exhibitors, who were so geared up and keen to share with each other and all the brides to be. Clearly what we learn from this is that there is plenty to go around.  The creativity rocks and ideas were amazing..”



She also noticed that “brides enjoy the one stop shop idea” of attending a wedding expo, while she as an exhibitor benefited from “sharing with other suppliers and working together to provide the bride with various ideas and options”. As an exhibitor who embraced the concept of the expo and made the most of the opportunity, she was in a good position to document the event.


For your enjoyment here is some of the footage from the event...

FAB Bridal Expo: Behind the scenes: http://vimeo.com/66049970
Behind the scenes of the FAB Bridal Fashion Show that was held 5th May 2013 at the Grand West Market Hall


FAB Bridal Fair Behind the Scenes from Moments2Media on Vimeo.

The first half of the exhibitors stalls   https://vimeo.com/66061786

FAB Bridal Fair Exhibitors Stalls - 1 from Moments2Media on Vimeo.

Moments2Media is a media company who specialises in videography and photography of weddings and corporate events. We have various preferred photographers that have partnered up with Moments2Media and are experienced in the wedding industry.


For more info check out their website: http://moments2media.co.za/ and facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Moments2Media

Shutter Effect Photography

Shutter Effect Photography’s attractive stand showed off their creativity and gained many compliments from visitors at the FAB Bridal Expo... A good move - since they love to cater for brides who are looking for a fun, artistic approach to their wedding day photo shoot. By using interesting backgrounds they like to emphasize the uniqueness of each couple: “Our vision is to place your shoot at an appropriate site that reflects your personality and style.”

Sherree-Lee Kruger is the owner of Shutter Effect’s recently launched Cape Town branch. She has over 12 years experience in the events industry, but what she enjoys most is to help clients make the most of memories which are personal and meaningful to them. “My true passion lies in expressing and capturing those small special moments.” She is inspired by beautiful things, loves paying attention to detail and describes her favourite styles as “anything Modern, Rustic, Vintage and Boutique”.

Shutter Effect covers a wide range events and types of photography services: Weddings, Parties, Events, Corporate Functions, Couples, Family, Children, New Born, Maternity, Catalogue, Food & Product. To find out more visit their website at www.shuttereffect.co.za

Dance Domain at the FAB Bridal Expo

The opening dance on your wedding day is expected to be one of those starry-eyed scenes from your favourite movie... but for many preparing for this display of dance skills is more about intense stage-fright and frustration with your rhythmically challenged two left feet! Luckily companies like Dance Domain were also represented at the FAB Bridal Expo to help couples enjoy this important part of their wedding day - whilst looking graceful and confident.

Chantel Mouton from Dance Domain Stellenbosch was there to chat to bridal couples and provide information about their dance classes. She enjoyed the experience and was not only impressed with the streamlined organisation of the event but also with the calibre of her fellow exhibitors present at the FAB Bridal Expo:

“The exhibitors on display were well prepared and created a tasteful impression... It was clear that the exhibitors chosen were professionals in their fields and well experienced. This created a sense of security for attendees in knowing they are at the right event to find some of the best in the industry.”

Dance Domain is a dynamic group of dance studios that have been operating together under the same name for over 10 years. They offer a variety of dances and dance styles mainly within the Social, Latin and Ballroom genre with selected studios also offering Hip Hop and Adult Ballet groups.  With seven branches spread out over the Western Cape and one in Namibia, Dance Domain is one of the biggest Social Dance groups in South Africa and the only dance group in the Western Cape.

Chantel mentioned that rather than offering a “set package” for wedding couples, the dance planner’s at Dance Domain will put together a unique package to address the specific needs for each bride and bridegroom.

“Some couples will need more time than others, depending on what they want to do. We recommend that couples start planning about 4 – 6 months in advance to determine when would be a good time to start.  However, there is no such thing as starting too early….“

To find the closest studio’s contact details and more info visit their website at www.dancedomain.co.za.


Compiled by Liska Kassier - ARTribe Advertising.
Contact us for any type of copywriting, such as company profiles, website content, newsletters.
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BlueCheri Wedding Photography

Carla and Jeanne from the BlueCheri Wedding Photography stand particularly appreciated the personal  interaction and face-time with potential clients, which an event like the FAB Bridal Expo facilitates. “We were flooded with brides-to-be and it was wonderful to have the time to personally meet and chat to all of them.” They loved the “energy in the room”, enjoyed the fashion shows and general ambience of the venue.
 

BlueCheri Wedding Photography combines the talents of Jeanne and Carla, who have both had a passion for photography for most of their lives. They operate as a team of two photographers which allows them to cover different aspects of the proceedings simultaneously. BluCheri describe their unique style of photography as “elegant, romantic and timeless”.  For more information and to view some of their stunning work visit their website: www.bluecheri.co.za

Compiled by Liska Kassier - ARTribe Advertising.
Contact us for any type of copywriting, such as company profiles, website content, newsletters.
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Music 2 the Max Sound & DJ Solutions

“I make sure your guests have a blast!” Brendan

We are not surprised that Music 2 the Max had such a terrific response at the FAB Bridal Expo this weekend. Brendan Kinsey’s open, enthusiastic manner and the fun vibe around his stand must've done the trick, together with his 20 years experience, impressive range of clients and the remarkable arsenal  of technology he brings with his service. Definitely sounds like the kind of DJ you would want to put your guests in a party mood on your wedding day...

Brendan: “FAB BRIDAL EXPO was my first expo ever and it was an incredible experience. I was so amazed at how many people showed interest in what my business had to offer and made some really good contacts. I am very impressed with FAB and will definitely be taking another stand at the next FAB event.”

Having moved his business from Joburg, Brendan described his experience of adapting his marketing approach. In his experience social media is the most successful marketing strategy in Joburg, while in Cape Town it’s all about meeting people and connecting with them personally- which is what he prefers.

Music 2 the Max Sound and DJ Solutions provides a professional DJ service for weddings, private parties, club events and corporate functions. Brendan has worked his magic at some of the finest venues in and around Cape Town, such as the Arabella Hotel and Spa and the Radisson Blue Hotel and has played alongside South Africa’s DJ legends like DJ Fresh, Lady Lea and Gareth Cliff. Music 2 the Max uses the best industry standard sound equipment and lighting to ensure a hassle free and entertaining show...

Check out their website at http://music2themax.com or like their facebook page for more info.

Compiled by Liska Kassier - ARTribe Advertising.
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FAB Bridal Expo 2013: Exhibitor Reviews

What a fun busy weekend we’ve had at the FAB Bridal Expo! After catching our breaths and finally easing back into our weekly routine again, we are eager to present to you our series of profiles and testimonials from some of the wonderful businesses represented at the expo ...

For us at ARTribe it was a pleasure to watch Donato Events execute this expo with such excellence. There was something rewarding about seeing our input bear fruit as the visitors arrived in great numbers at the Market Hall at Grand West. The expo rolled on with a pleasant, bustling atmosphere, interspersed with sessions of live entertainment by some of the talented musicians, who were also exhibiting at the show. 

One of the highlights were the 6 fashion shows which punctuated the proceedings at regular intervals and entertained visitors, as they took a break from perusing the stands. From dreamy traditional gowns to more daring and dramatic creations, the designs displayed on the runway catered for a variety of styles and tastes. Designers included the likes of Kobus Dippenaar and Jacques La Grange.

We also took some time to thread our way through the numerous stalls, discovering the mix of businesses and meeting the faces of the passionate owners behind them. Quite a few were first time FAB-ers or actually first time exhibitors at any wedding- (or other) expo for that matter.  Most of them gave enthusiastic feedback on their experience and have benefited from the valuable exposure. Several exhibitors specifically noted that many of the FAB visitors showed a really focused interest in what was on offer, making the most of their opportunity to engage with the exhibitors. Many already confirmed bookings on the day.

On that note, we are sure that the brides- and grooms-to-be found what they were looking for and more amongst this remarkable collection of events service providers. In case you missed any of the creative and talented people who could turn your wedding into a magical day, we will be presenting them one by one right here on our blog over the next few weeks. Watch this space and let’s keep the momentum going until the Wineland’s Bridal Fair!

Article by Liska Kassier - ARTribe Advertising.
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