Everything you’ve ever wanted to know about an event stylist!

Ever wondered what an Event Stylist actually does? Have you considered booking a stylist but aren’t sure if it would suit your type of event?

Today we chat to the talented Lopa of Pumpkin Carriage Events in Sydney and find out about the inner workings of an Event Stylist!

Why engage an event stylist?

If you want to have flawless decor to give that WOW factor to your celebration, then you need to engage an event stylist. But…. that’s not the entire package that an event stylist brings to your party. We save you time, money and bring you a pool of resources, knowledge and experience.

In our busy days and lives, we have to master our to-do lists and excel at prioritising. Sometimes having huge work and family commitments means that you can’t be completely committed to designing a fabulous event that will make memories forever. Now imagine an individual or a business whose bread and butter is solely to prioritise your event and give it the full and undivided attention that it needs. Bringing an event stylist on board for your event means that not a single detail is missed and no effort is spared in bringing your theme and your style to life.

Apart from saving you time, an event stylist will also save you a lot of money. Stylists are not inexpensive, but they are very efficient with their costs. On your budget spreadsheet, it may seem like it is an extra cost, but in reality engaging a stylist will bring you massive savings. A good stylist will know how to set the scene for a stylish and memorable celebration whilst maximising your budget. A stylist knows where to cut back without compromising the style and where to splash out to create that WOW factor for your celebration, bringing you value for money.

Finally, an event stylist brings a wealth of experience and a pool of expertise to your event. Whether you are planning your child’s first birthday or an upcoming wedding, remember a stylist would have styled and organised numerous of them in the same year. Every stylist has their own database of experienced and skilled vendors, and the stylist knows which of those vendor’s knowledge and expertise will bring the best value to your event.

 

As an event stylist, what aspects of the event do you coordinate?

As a stylist, our focus is on the décor and style of your event, including venue styling, dessert tables, bar and drink stations, entrance styling and guestbooks and much more. Your event is unique to you and we believe that it should tell your story.

Our focus is getting to know you and what you want to achieve from your event, so that we can set the scene and add your personal touches in designing the perfect celebration. People come together to celebrate a milestone or a happy occasion and it is always a delight for the host and guests to walk into a party space that is styled to heighten the mood for celebration.

Can you talk us through the process of what happens if I was to book with you for an event? 

Once you receive a quote and are happy with it, you can book us by paying a deposit, which locks in the date of your event in our calendar.

During the quoting process, we ask a lot of questions about your event so that we can provide you with a tailored quotation to suit what you need for your event. For example, you don’t need to be quoted for a marquee if you don’t need it!

By the booking stage we have a fair idea of the kind of look, feel and style you may want for your event. Once booked, we ask for your preferred colour palette, and then we buzz away behind the scenes planning, coordinating, organising all that is required to design and set up a mesmerising party space. Yes, it is a lot of work, but we love it!

Our team will design, create and set up the party space at your venue before your party begins so all that’s left for you to do is pick your fabulous outfit and host your party!

How should someone decide whether to DIY or book an event stylist?

The key deciding factor in DIY vs hiring an stylist is time and expertise. Do you have the time to design and create styling pieces, source unique décor features, cakes, desserts, personalised items, source props, pick up and drop offs from multiple locations to and from the event venue, and the list could continue on.

As an event styling company our team’s time and expertise is dedicated to doing all of those things for you, so that you can dedicate your time to work and family commitments.

It’s like doing your taxes on your own as opposed to engaging an accountant. Sure, its easy enough to lodge taxes online on our own, but an experienced accountant has the expertise to find you creative ways to get more bang for your buck!

What happens if someone doesn’t know if they can afford an event planner? Do stylists have a range of packages they can tailor to suit various budgets?

There is a range of event stylists in the market with a wide spectrum of pricing and inclusions. There are those who provide stock standard pricing and inclusions, and those who provide tailored pricing to suit what the client needs. Essentially, what you need to consider is firstly what is your budget and what is your expectation from that budget in terms of the style you want to achieve. As with all products and services, style and quality go hand-in-hand with price.

Approximately how many hours of work would go into an event such as a first birthday ? 

After styling many first birthdays, it now takes us an average of 15 to 20 hours from concept and development to coordination, to styling and setting up an event. Of course every event is different and exact timings depend on the event however this is a rough estimate.

On average 4 to 5 hours of this is spent in styling, setting up the scene for the event at the venue with a team of 3 to 4 staff, and at least 1 to 2 hours packing up after the event.

The pre-event preparations such as design briefs and proofs for vendors, sourcing and booking of props, cakes, and desserts take up almost 6 to 8 hours depending on the style and complexity required. For example, when we are creating a unique and innovative prop or accessory for an event, it takes longer in design and testing process, before we include it for your event.

Travel time can take up almost 6 to 8 hours depending on the event requirements, as we travel all over Sydney to source the appropriate vendors to match the skills required for your event. This involves picking up, delivering to the venue and returning items such as props, signage, printed items, cakes and desserts, flowers, decorative items and much more.

These time estimates are only rough guides as each event is unique and therefore timing will depend on the specific requirements you need.

 

Tell us about the day in the life of an event planner /stylist/! 

A day in my life absolutely has to start with a strong cup of ‘chai’ made the traditional way, which I sip while packing lunch and serving breakfast for my cherubs.

Then begins the school routine and drop offs. Once the kids are in their happy place, I get into mine.

This includes providing design briefs, booking vendors for upcoming events, sourcing props (mostly on the road), going to see clients for consults, and so on until close of business, with the evenings free to enjoy some time with my gorgeous family.

 

 

What doesn’t an event stylist do? 

A stylist is responsible for the décor and style of the event, mainly setting the scene for your celebration. As an event stylist we usually don’t stay for the duration of the event to ensure everything runs smoothly and coordinate with venue staff and guests. This is usually what an event planner would do.

Thank you Lopa of The Pumpkin Carriage events for providing us more insight into the services of an event stylist!

All the beautiful events showcased in this blog post were styled by The Pumpkin Carriage events with photography by Captured by Kirri.

If you want to discuss your event further with The Pumpkin Carriage events you can find their website here

 

 

 

All the little things

When organising a party for your kids or celebrating the arrival of a new baby, it’s important to make your event that little bit personal and unique. But how is it done?

Today we hear from  Jo’s Signs by Design who believe it’s all the little details that make your event memorable and special for you and your guests. Below are some top ideas that are interactive, edible and stylish that will bring your party to the next level.

Personalised Chocolates

Dessert tables are the most popular focal point at parties these days. They’re covered in tasty treats and set the scene for your whole event.

There’s nothing better than making sure your little guests get to eat something yum that reminds them of your special day. Personalised chocolate wrappers are simple and easy to organise and look amazing on and after the big event.

These chocolates were especially made for an expecting mum for her baby shower.

 

Place Cards

Whether your event is big or small, personalised place cards are a sweet addition to your party. Perfect for Christenings’ and Baptisms’ when you have a large amount of guests.

Here we’ve made table numbers using gold foil. Minimalist in design and easy to make, they add a touch of elegance to your tables.

We can also make these in a range of colours such as rose gold, silver, marble and more.

 

Welcome Board & Table Sign

Combined welcome boards and table plans are currently one of the most popular trends for kids’ parties.

They are the first thing your guests see and capture the theme and style of your entire event. What’s even better is that you can add that special touch of sparkle with foiling.

This board, made for a Christening, stands out with its soft pastel blue and rose gold foiling for the name.

 

Decals

Decals are the understated party accessory. They’re like personalised stickers that can be stuck on a range of surfaces. Custom made to any shape, design or font they bring a stylish element to any event.

Here they’ve been used as a welcome sign on a gorgeous ornate gold-framed mirror for a Baptism.

 

Prop Frames

There’s no better way to get your guests, young and old, involved and mingling than by giving them something that’s fun and interactive. Personalised prop frames do just this! Frames are durable and can be used at a range of events.

This is one of our very own prop frames. They leave everyone smiling and you can be certain it will leave a lasting impression.

 

 

We hope these ideas have given you some food for thought for your next party or event. As you can see it’s the little details and personal touches that will take everything to the next level. There are so many ways in which you can accessorise your party so don’t be afraid to let your imagination run wild!

 

Who are Jo’s Signs by Design?

 

Jo’s Signs by Design print all things party for talented event stylists and individuals wanting to create a unique event. We pride ourselves on offering personalised, stress-free services that exceed your expectations of quality. From weddings to birthdays to christenings to baby showers to anything that’s worth celebrating, Jo’s Signs brings your imagination to life.

We don’t just do the printing! We also take care of all your design and artwork needs as well. If you have ideas but don’t know where or how to make them a reality, we can help you.

Your experience with us will be seamless from start to finish and of course, hassle free!

 

Barbie inspired birthday party supplies and ideas

I don’t know too many 58 year olds who inspire 5 year old birthday parties, do you?

But with a portfolio of over 150+ careers and a killer wardrobe, it’s no surprise Barbie has and always will be an inspiration for so many young girls – so why not have a party in her honour?

But how do you choose between rock ‘n’ roll Barbie, Malibu Barbie or Mermaid Barbie?

Think like Barbie and make everything PINK of course!

 

 

 

 

 

I was a HUGE Barbie fan when I was little. My all-time favourite was Barbie and the Rockers, which in hindsight would have made a great party theme!

If choosing just one of Barbie’s roles is too hard though, use a Barbie silhouette and stick with PINK as your main colour mixed with with white and black which will achieve the right effect – we’ve found a few ‘accessories’ to help complete the setting from vendors listed on the Life’s Little Celebrations children’s party directory

Simply CLICK on any image below to be taken to where you can source the item from

Start off with a fun invitation to set the theme!

Barbie party decorations

PINK, PINK and more PINK! Barbie could never have enough. Mix with a little black and white for a modern twist, and of course add as many accessories as you can find!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HIRE

 

How fun would this Barbie prop be for the kids!:

 

 

 

Set up a cute kids table with pink chairs such as these!:

 

 

This would make the perfect piece for a dessert table!:

 

Perfect for a Barbie themed slumber party!:

 

 

 

Barbie party tableware

Regardless of your choice of Barbie, your table setting can be as lavish as you like because Barbie’s party are always over the top! Mix and match for fun and be as feminine or chic as you like. Don’t forget the PINK!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ice cream cups, Little Boo-Teek

 

Barbie party treats

Like most icons, Barbie is instantly recognisable – so use this to your advantage and incorporate the colour and visuals from your decorations into your desserts too. I love this silhouette concept by The Sweet Cart in Perth.

 

 

 

 

And you can’t really go wrong with a Barbie cake, can you?

 

 

 

 

Any pink cakes and desserts match this theme – if you have other Barbie specific desserts, Barbie cake topper or Barbie backdrop then you can go with a more generic pink cake !:

 

 

 

Let these glam desserts inspire you! They would work perfectly on a pretty pink Barbie table!:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Love the font of this cake topper! Perfect for a Barbie party:

 

 

 

A few last finishing touches for any homemade items for a Barbie party:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Barbie party favours

We know how much Barbie loves her accessories, so send guests home with their own with unique treasures, mini treats and lots more PINK!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

You can’t go wrong with edible party favours – personalised of course! Love the gold foil effect:

 

 

 

Match your party favour gift bags and tag to the colour scheme of pink/black/white!:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mini Barbie fans will go ga-ga over this theme! Enjoy the party planning!

 

 

 

 

Minions party supplies

The little yellow men in overalls have done it again!

Minions 3 has hit the big screens, and whilst it’s predominantly focused on Gru and his twin brother, the Minions have stollen the show and created a yellow frenzy! Kids go bananas (pun intended!) for these guys, so they make a great choice for a kid’s party theme, and super simple with just two colours to coordinate!

 

 

 

The Minions are of course no strangers to throwing a good party, but if you prefer things a little less chaotic and a lot more thought out, we’ve rounded up some great inspiration and party finds from the vendors on the Life’s Little Celebrations party directory to help get the party started – just add a few fun crazy games and the kids will be screaming for more!

 

 

Minions party decorations

This would have to be one of the easiest themes to find decorations for! Just think like a Minion and splash plenty of yellow and blue around, some funny humour with personalised printables and a few bananas, just for good measure!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Here’s a great craft idea too that makes a fun keepsake!

 

 

Minions party tableware

Continue the yellow and blue theme to your table with these stylish finds.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Minions party cakes and desserts

Minion characters are great for replicating in any form of sweet treat! With googley eyes, round heads and funny faces, add some Minion madness with cookies, macarons, cake pops and cake in yellow and blue.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It’s easy to DIY too with coordinated accessories and cake toppers.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Minions party favours

Think like a Minion and fill your party bags with delicious banana treats, quirky toys or games and loud whistle blowers!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Expect a party of crazy Minion madness with this theme – but guaranteed fun!

 

 

 

Pretty in peach – Baby Shower supplies

 

For a gorgeous Christening, baby shower or 1st birthday – the beautiful colour scheme of peach, mint and metallics such as gold is the perfect base!

Today I’m sharing a range of items to suit a baby shower  in this colour scheme – all from The Little Event Company. This online store has so many wonderful party supplies to suit kids parties as well as Christenings or baby showers and you can see below how all the items chosen would work together to create a beautiful party!:

 

How perfect are these balloons for a baby shower?!:

 

Create a beautiful table setting such as this. using the party supplies below:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As you can see – everything from decorations to tableware, from finishing touches to party bags – can work together for this colour scheme! Soft pastels are perfect for a baby-related event but the metallics give that extra special touch for this occasion!

Find all of these party supplies and more at the high quality stylish party boutique  –  The Little Event Company

I guarantee you’ll love having a browse!