jason26

Expenses all bridesmaids should expect!

Thu, 02 May 2019 17:54:44 GMT

Being asked to be a bridesmaid in a friend’s wedding is incredibly exciting. From the creative way they ask you to the thoughts of how much fun the events leading up to the wedding will be. If you’ve happily agreed to be a part of a wedding party, you’ll need to reserve some funds and a bit of time leading up to the big day.

Navigating finances in any setting can be a challenge and when you don’t technically know who should pay for what, it can only lead to more confusion. Below we’ll dive into some of the most common money related questions all new bridesmaids have. Make sure to read all the way through as there is a bonus checklist for the day of!

What a bridesmaid should expect to pay for:

Bachelorette Party: Bridesmaids are responsible for paying their way on a bachelorette BUT think of it as a vacation with your best girls because really, that’s what It is!

Travel/Lodging: You may or may not be required to pitch in for ceremony/bachelorette/rehearsal transportation and lodging the night before the wedding.

Hair/makeup: Occasionally, brides will offer to pay for one or the other if you’re having them professionally done. However, this is not always the case.

Dress: Another given! Bridesmaids will almost always pay for their own dress!

Shoes: Most brides are more relaxed on this especially if your dress is going to cover your toes. As long as the color blends, you won’t have to purchase a new pair of shoes.

Engagement/Wedding shower gift: This is a given! Just because you agreed to be a bridesmaid doesn’t exclude you from the age-old tradition of giving an engagement/wedding gift!

As an added bonus, we’ve compiled a list of things you should know and/or have prepped the day of the wedding!

- A bridal tool kit: Scissors, thread, Band-Aids, tweezers, etc.… Essentially, all the things you think you won’t need, BRING THOSE!

- Snacks, lots of snacks ladies

- A positive attitude :)

- Variety pack of medicine: Advil & Ant-acids!

- A little bit of cash (just in case you need to run out for something)

- Make sure to be prepared to lend a helping hand to not only the bride but also to the rest of the wedding party

- Some great comfy clothes to get ready in (if not provided by the bride)

- Deodorant! You’re most likely going to be dancing all night…enough said!

- Bobby pins & hair bands – you can never have too many!

Photo Cred: The Teagues - https://www.theteagues.co

Wedding invitations that POP!

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 03:10:27 GMT

Are you ready to announce your wedding in style? We certainly hope so!
There's a lot to think about when it comes down to creating the perfect invite! Paper weight & feel, font, design, inserts, overall style, etc. After all, an invitation is the first impression your guests will have of your wedding.
Not to worry, we've collected some of our favorite examples from the past year in an effort to inspire you!

We're loving the stunning artistry on these invitations which feature a bright pop of purple sprinkled with greenery that adds the perfect touch to an otherwise simple and elegant font.
Photo Cred: BeatBox Portraits

Slightly modern, slightly elegant, slightly regal...We can't decide, can you?
Photo Cred: BeatBox Portraits

These subtle pastel hues having us wishing that Spring would just hurry up and get here!
Photo Cred: Elisabeth Carol

We know we just mentioned spring BUT... Nothing says winter white like a snowstorm on a bright blue day!
Photo Cred: Emily Chappell Photography

Simple, yet totally draws the eye in. We love everything about this clean gold & white palette for any time of year!
Photo Cred: Matt & Julie Weddings

5 Simple Ways to Cut Major Costs...Wedding Edition!

Wed, 09 Jan 2019 19:48:45 GMT

1. Go Green: As in utilize more greenery instead of flowers. Greenery tends to be the more cost-effective solution to filling in the spaces of a venue when thinking about décor. Utilize bridal party bouquets as center pieces for the reception & fill in the rest with lots of greens! if you’re doing your own florals/greenery, go to a farmer’s market and get an assortment if you can. Otherwise, shop wholesale!

2. One-Stop-Shop: As in the VENUE! There are a lot of venues out there with limited options. Get the most for your money & the best overall idea of a total spend with a venue who can & will do it all for you. *HINT HINT* – Verona Villa

3. Be Digital Friendly: We know, this one’s a bit controversial. Some people strongly dislike digital save the dates & wedding invitations. We however, think this is a wonderful way to save a few dollars. After all, the invite will probably end up stuck in a drawer or even worse, the trash once you guest gets it & puts a reminder in their (digital) calendar *See what we did there?!*

4. Ditch the Program & Menu’s: Not entirely, just the hundreds of printed copies for your guests! Significantly reduce paper expenses by utilizing one large decorative sign for the program and one for the Dinner menu. Place them near the entrance of each designated room or where most appropriate.

5. Skip the Favors: Now you should always be a good friend & do people favors when appropriate BUT that’s not the kind of favor we’re talking about….We’re talking wedding favors. While they’re a cute idea & guests certainly do love a good favor, the bottom line is that they are an unnecessary added expense. Think about it: you’re already treating your guests to a full course meal, dessert, a bar & entertainment!

VV Tip: Open up a wedding checking account. Anything that has to do with wedding related expenses should be carefully managed. Trust us, it’s worth it to have all your “wedding money” in one spot as this really enables you to stay on budget at all times. Even if you go with a venue who does it all, you still might have additional expenses for random items that can’t be avoided. We also love the idea of including bachelor/bachelorette party & honeymoon related expenses in here!

Gift Guide for the Bride!

Tue, 11 Dec 2018 16:29:15 GMT

Hey there & happy Tuesday!

We're back at it today with a Holiday gift guide for the Bride in your life. If you're anything like us, you love weddings which means you love brides but gosh darnit, sometimes they are just so hard to shop for. Worry not, we've taken the weight off your shoulders and scoured the internet for the greatest and most loved items that are guaranteed to please any bride.

1. Kate Spade Wedding Planner Book

Because hey, a girl has got to stay organized!

Planner

2. Flora Nikrooz Gabby Short Pajamas

Two words: Silk Pajamas - we really don't need to elaborate on this but OKAY OKAY we will... if you want to make her feel like a queen, then run to your closest Nordstrom & grab these!

Silk Pajamas

3. Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat Liner in Pillow Talk

Every woman should have this lip liner! It truly is a your lips but better shade that gives you the "did she or didn't she?" look!

Lip Liner

4. Slip for BeautySleep – Silk pillowcase

It's certainly a luxury item and a bit ridiculous but HEY... a girls gotta take care of her face and get that beauty sleep. What a better way to really treat her than with a silk pillowcase?!

Silk Pillow

5. David’s Bridal – Mr & Mrs countdown blocks

These are just downright cute.

Blocks

6. Wedding Bee – Bride Hanger

A MUST HAVE for any bride!

Hanger

7. Laneige – Lip Sleep Mask

Again with the lips... The last thing any bride wants is chapped lips before the wedding & this mask is a life-saver ladies. Grab one for the bride and get one for yourself too!

Lip Mask

8. Kate Aspen – Bottle Stopper

Because everyone loves wine. Obviously.

Wine Stopper

9. Wedding Day Shirt

Like a game day shirt except for your wedding, genius!

Wedding Shirt

10. Kularta via Etsy – Engaged Ornament

Get your future married couple started with a holiday tradition they can enjoy year after year. A personalized ornament that benchmarks pivotal moments is the perfect gift with real meaning!

Ornament

So Very Thankful

jason@veronavilla.com (Jason Young ) — Thu, 22 Nov 2018 16:16:23 GMT

“A thankful heart is the greatest virtue” - Cicero

I am fairly spontaneous by nature. Typically, I make quick decisions and jump in with both feet, darn the consequences. On the other hand, my wife Christy is a researcher. She is measured, takes her time, considers feedback and then makes the best decision possible. There have been numerous occasions when her way has paid off big-time.

Several years ago we were in Cabo on vacation and after researching restaurants Christy found what at the time was a hidden gem called Flora Farms (it is now wildly popular and every time we have recommended it, people say it is their new favorite - go check it out if you are there). Flora Farms is an indoor/outdoor environment where all of the ingredients for their delicious food is procured onsite with the exception of seafood which is brought in locally. From their fresh produce, to their amazing bakery and homemade pastas, it is amazing. When we first walked into this magical environment, we were greeted with a chalkboard message that is seared into my daily consciousness:

“A thankful heart is the greatest virtue” - Cicero

I tend to be a thankful person by nature. I am acutely aware of how fortunate I am to come from loving parents that have always put their kids first. I was raised in a home that was loving, supportive and inspired me and my brothers and sisters to maximize our potential. I was exposed to different cultures and points of view by traveling to most of the states in our nation. Our home was free of bigotry, hate and intolerance. We always were safe, had amazing food and a beautiful home. It was always expected that I be considerate and thoughtful of other’s needs and to lead with a servant heart. We had dinner around the table as a family. As an adult, I am keenly aware of what a gift that was as that is not everyone’s experience.

I am mindful of my childhood as these experiences play an integral role in the heart of Verona Villa. We love everybody and we aspire to be a place where all feel welcome to Gather as family, friends, team members and clients; Celebrate life’s important moments, friendships and achievements; and Inspire each other to love deeper and dream bigger. Our team is committed to providing our expertise to provide customized and personalized experiences to all that walk through our doors.

With Thanksgiving upon us, I am especially thankful for the incredible clients that have chosen us to be part of their events; our vendor partners who share their art, talent and passion for delivering excellence; our supportive and awesome community we are fortunate to call home; and also our VV Team that pours their heart into everything they do day in and day out. I am also extra thankful for the love and support of the absolute best family and friends a person could ever wish for.

From our family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving!

Corporate Events: Let's change em' up!

Thu, 15 Nov 2018 19:05:20 GMT

7 ways to guarantee a good time at your next corporate event

Are you tired of the traditional, not so fun corporate meetings/events & parties? Well, we are too which is why we've put together a list of some things you can do to inspire fun and an exceptionally good time at your next event.

1. Hire a Magician – Hello…who doesn’t love a good magic trick? More importantly, who isn’t highly entertained by the suspense of what’s going to happen?

2. Live Music/ DJ – This is a given! Always ensure that there is some form of musical entertainment for your guests. Whether band or DJ, Verona Villa knows plenty who can liven up the party with the best music in town.

3. Creative Cocktails – Always a crowd pleaser should you choose to allow alcohol at your event. We suggest going beyond the traditional beer & wine or open bar route and incorporate specialty drinks. Want to make it even more fun? Give each cocktail a name that associates with a current project, outstanding employee or upcoming announcement!

4. Door Prizes – It’s always a crowd pleaser to feature prizes such as… Days off, Gift Cards or Tickets to sporting events/concerts.

5. Dress/Attire theme – This one is simple and most often overlooked. Choose a theme & have everyone come dressed accordingly!

6. Piñata – Enough said…Because getting a little aggression out with the surprise of something sweet at the end is always a good idea!

7. Photo/Video Booth – Everyone always loves a good photo booth & the better the props, the better the photos. Take it up a notch by featuring a video booth as well where people can record messages or personal stories about the company.

At Verona Villa, we're always here to help brainstorm & execute your creative corporate needs. Give us a ring or drop us a line on our contact page to chat with our staff about how to make a lasting impact at your next event!

Creative Twists for your Reception!

Thu, 25 Oct 2018 16:25:20 GMT

Are you ready to put a creative & fun spin on your wedding reception or any event for that matter? Keep on reading for some truly unique & slightly non-traditional ways to make your event fun & engaging!

1. Large Game Area – (Indoor or Outdoor)

- Jenga

- Connect four

- Corn Hole

- Twister

*In addition, throw in a board game table and bring out the old classics such as Candy Land, Guess Who, Chutes & Ladders, etc. Your guests will love seeing games that they’ve most likely not played since childhood.

2. Bounce House : A definite item to consider If there are going to be children at the wedding! The ultimate form of entertainment that will keep those kiddos occupied for hours.

3. Photo booth : Who doesn’t love a good photo booth? Especially with props! The funnier the signs & props, the better the photos and more fun!

4. Video Game Station : Nintendo, X-box or whatever you’ve got, Verona villa has multiple TV’s to connect to which can house any gaming station.

5. Cigar Lounge: Our upstairs balcony makes for a great space to set up furniture and feature a cigar station.

6. Lounge Furniture: Instead of standard chairs, invest in trendy couches and tables to give the space a relaxing yet unique feel.

7. Video Confessional Booth: A more personal spin on the ever so popular photo booth. This is a fun way to have your guests record a special message on your big day!

8. Midnight Snacks: Simply because, you can never go wrong with snacks. We recommend having a salty & sweet option for your guests to choose from.

Did you know that Verona Villa has an IN HOUSE wedding/event planner? For more creative ideas on how to make your wedding or any event special, give us a ring or pop in for a tour! We'd love to show you what we can do for you!

Captured: A Collection of Moments, Vol 2.

Wed, 17 Oct 2018 15:54:24 GMT

Hey there & happy Wednesday, Friends!
We hope you're in the mood for some great photographs because the weddings at VV the last couple of months have been nothing short of amazing.
Scroll down for more images featuring the beautiful couples that filled our space with their love!

*All photographers are listed below each image

Cameron Lane Photography

HG Photo & Film

Complete DFW

Leeanne Funke Photo

Curious Photography

Emily Chappell Photography

5 things to consider when choosing a venue for your corporate functions

Tue, 25 Sep 2018 16:52:44 GMT

1. Welcoming & knowledgeable staff:

Planning a corporate event is no easy feat which is why it’s important to select a staff who’s not only accommodating but attuned to your needs. Finding a team that can work closely with you to provide an exceptional experience from start to finish makes the process all the more enjoyable.

2. Catering Options:

Not everyone likes the same thing and working with a venue who’s flexible to you and your food requirements can be a challenge. If bringing outside food in and switching things up is important to you, it’s worth the time and research to find a venue that allows for outside catering options.

3. Location & Accessibility:

-Always account for Parking. Does the venue have enough onsite spots or will you need valet?

-Ask the venue for hotel recommendations and whether or not they partner with certain hotels in the area for a cheaper rate.

-If your event is a weekend extravaganza or even longer than one day, scout the area for local hot spots/entertainment especially when traveling from another city.

4. A/V & Wi-Fi:

If A/V is a necessity for your event, plan on asking thorough questions so that you can be certain what the venue has onsite and what will need to be brought in. The last thing anyone needs is a mishap related to technology.

-Don't forget: Wi-Fi, is it Staff only or do they have a guest Wi-Fi?

5. Overall atmosphere:

-Is the environment welcoming and does it provide an open floor plan with windows and an outdoor patio for guests to move into?

-Does the layout work for your flow of traffic and overall vision for the floorplan?

-Is it transitional from a day of business meetings to an evening of Happy hour and networking?

We hope these tips help & of course, Verona Villa is always here to help with your corporate event needs!

Captured: A Collection of Moments

Fri, 10 Aug 2018 16:58:57 GMT

If you’re anything like us, then we know you’ll love a good photograph and BOY do we have some today. In the last few months, we’ve had the privilege of being the chosen venue for some absolutely beautiful weddings and we can’t say enough good things about all of the participating vendors and everyone involved in these couple’s big day. What an honor it is to be the backdrop for every captured photograph. In light of the weekend, we hope you enjoy these photos and maybe find some inspiration of your own!

*All photographs are grouped by photographer who will be listed underneath.

Bay Productions - http://www.brittanybayproductions.com/

Elisabeth Carol - http://www.elisabethcarol.com/

Beatbox Portraits - https://www.beatboxportraits.com/

Matt & Julie Weddings - http://www.mattandjulieweddings.com/

Channeling your Inner Puppy

Fri, 27 Jul 2018 17:10:19 GMT

Building up your TEAM with Verona Villa

What is an event venue doing talking about puppies?

Is there a puppy sale?

Is the SPCA coming?

Are they starting a doggy daycare?

NO. NO. NO… although that’s a thought. Y’all must think we’ve darn near had a meltdown on this fine Friday morning. Rest assured, the countless events and happenings at VV have us all bright eyed and bushy tailed today, Literally!

For those of you with a pup at home, you’ll catch on immediately. For those without, you’ll follow where I’m going here in a minute so hang on tight and don’t click out of this browser.

In a pup’s world, everything is approached with excitement. From their big eyes, full of love down to their belly just patiently waiting for a nice rub by enticing you with a happy wiggle. How could you not have love for puppies? A simple walk, or throw of a bone brings joy like you’ve never seen before. Praise and words of encouragement spark endless tail wagging and further motivation to please their owner.

There is no “P U P P Y” in “E M P L O Y E E” but don’t you want your employees channeling their inner puppies? Always happy, eager to learn, perform and please?

Every puppy needs a little training and positive re-enforcement. Solid encouragement and constructive feedback are always the way to go unless you want sad eyes that could melt even the coldest heart. A puppy can change you as a person, so can every single employee that you have. As they learn, you learn. What better way to get your puppies (employees) learning and sparking creativity than holding a team training or retreat at Verona Villa? With its fresh, wide open spaces, natural sunlight, endless “treat” options (we mean catering) & A/V capabilities, why wouldn’t you take advantage?

It’s the perfect escape from your everyday “cage” to come to a place that can easily boast a fresh perspective. Not to mention, there’s plenty of room on the outdoor patio for a little game of fetch or corn hole during lunch…whatever you prefer. Give your employees the royal treatment and book your next corporate event at Verona Villa. Better yet, why not make it a quarterly thing?

We’re all puppies here & we want the best for you and your team ;) Let us provide you with the backyard your pups need to flourish!

Image Via: thehappypuppysite.com

Corporate Events - Done Right!

Fri, 20 Jul 2018 17:32:59 GMT

We all know that the most valuable resource at any given company are its employees. In today’s continuously changing world, investing in your employees by hosting monthly/quarterly/yearly parties, trainings, seminars, etc. is one of the best ways to keep them informed, invested and excited about being a part of an organization.

With employees being our number 1, don’t you think it’s not only worthwhile but worth the investment to spend a few extra dollars into making any corporate function something special. We all know your standard corporate conference, training or seminar that’s hosted at the company location itself or a maybe an enclosed hotel ballroom. Newsflash: This is Boring – NO FUN AT ALL. In fact, your employees dread this and probably spend 50% of their time on their iPhone or day dreaming. Let’s get out of this standard mindset that corporate events have to be stuffy and held in a dark cold room.

Keep on reading below to find out how you can host your next corporate event the right way!

1. First things first – Please for the love of Corporate America, consider hosting your event somewhere beyond your own office or a hotel with bad food & a dark atmosphere. Consider someplace like Verona Villa with its open windows, indoor/outdoor concept & flexible catering options. Or, if you’re really feeling generous, take them somewhere out of state for a retreat style event. Whatever you decide, please remember – the location you choose is the most important part as the environment will spark their overall mood, engagement levels & creativity.

2. Have a carefully thought out plan: Narrow down your goals for the event by going to key managers, directors & stakeholders (if appropriate) and ask them what they hope to get out of it. Don’t forget to target your key talking points so that the audience feels engaged and organized during the event.

3. Email Marketing is a good way to get employees amped up for the event. Send out a simple event invite - anything better than the standard “mandatory meeting” email notification. That is the last thing your employees want to receive. Have your graphics team, if you have one create a campaign from initial design of the invitation, to specified countdown emails that are attention grabbing and provoke a sense of excitement.

4. Invest in an outside speaker: If you have the budget, we’d highly recommend in investing in someone outside your company to come in and speak. There’s something about a fresh perspective from an industry expert that really keeps a crowd on their toes.

5. Get your people involved: Play a game or leave suggestion boxes at each table as a way to get your employees to feel a sense of belonging and teamwork.

6. Last but certainly not least: conduct a post event survey. Include everything from how they felt about the location, food, content, speakers, information, etc. A simple 1- 10 rating system with the ability to leave comments works wonders. Employees love to know that they are heard and that you care about their feedback. In addition, this gives your event team helpful & constructive feedback for planning their next corporate function.

***If you or someone you know is looking to host a corporate function, look no further than your friends at Verona Villa. With our Tuscan style venue, 2 unique interior spaces, expansive outdoor patio, flexible catering options & A/V capabilities, what more could you need?

Don't be shy...give us a ring at 972-837-8034 and let us show you why VV is your go to for all of your corporate needs!

Photo Credit: Emily Chappell

Wedding Jitters & Self Care

Fri, 13 Jul 2018 21:44:40 GMT

If you’re reading this, it’s most likely because you’ve made it to the beginning stages of that next phase in life. #MARRIEDLIFEFORTHEWIN

What everyone fails to mention is that sometimes, the second that shiny new ring lands on your beautifully polished finger is the instant you panic. Not about the actual engagement, no rather about all the things you need to do in order to get ready for the big day.

Here we go…

“I need to lose 10 pounds”

“I need to get a facial/Botox/cool sculpting”

“I need the latest hairstyle/extensions”

STOP – STOP – STOP!

Girl, calm yourself.

Newsflash – he proposed because he already loves what he sees in you – on the outside as well as the inside. AND more good news, so does every other supportive & loving person in your life. That’s why you surround yourself with the people you do, right?

OK, good. Glad we got that squared away…

Now, onto the good stuff. By good stuff, we mean how to properly take care of yourself before the wedding without simultaneously driving yourself bonkers.

Eat well, feel well

Now, I’m not saying go on a diet here. NO NO NO. Just eat foods that fuel your body, nourish your skin and make you feel alive as opposed to fatigued. This doesn’t mean you can’t have that burger & fries, just do so in moderation.

Oh, and ladies…. STAY HYRDATED! Water, Green Juice & Lemon Water is the way to go!

Love your body just the way it is

On top of planning a wedding, having a job, home life, and your regular routine, who has time to go on a diet or have procedures done? I know I don’t. Rather than focusing on what’s wrong, take a moment out of your day to appreciate what you love about your body and practice saying nice things to yourself (I know – sounds corny BUT I promise it works.) Take it a step farther and write notes of encouragement on sticky notes and tape them to your mirror so you’re always reminded. [Shout out to American Eagle fitting rooms for that one]

Alone Time

When times are exciting, it’s hard not to want to share your happy times with everyone around you but sometimes you just need to be alone and in your own head in order to really decompress. Try yoga at home or meditation – Get your calm on at least once a day if you can -especially leading up to the wedding.

Journaling

Start keeping a journal if you don’t already.

WRITE IT ALL DOWN!

Thoughts, feelings, emotions, plans, goals, etc. If it’s in your head, put pen to paper. It’s a lot easier to keep track of everything that’s going on! Not only for your wedding but your life, keep account of everything.

We sincerely hope this helps calm you among the crazy excitement of wedding planning. If not, send us a message as we can always recommend a good bottle of wine :)

Photo Cred: Tyler + Lindsey

A Different Wedding Theme for Every Bride!

Fri, 06 Jul 2018 20:03:18 GMT

When planning a wedding, it seems like there are SO many aspects to focus on! The guests, the catering, the venue, the favors, the drinks, the list goes on and on.... Making sure your wedding is perfect requires making sure that it suits your needs as well as delivers an exciting experience for your guests. But above all, it is important to ensure your wedding matches your personality!

Below are some different wedding styles/themes to match the unique personality of every bride:

1. Traditional / Classic: This is the “classic”, romantic wedding. Complete with numerous candles, an abundance of flowers, chandeliers, and calligraphy, you can’t go wrong with this wedding style - it has withheld the test of time. Also in this style you will see pinkish or white hues, softer colors, and plenty of flowers!

2. Moody: This may not be a style that is widely used, but it is no doubt a very unique and interesting option. Not a bride that wants to go with the “norm”? Want to differentiate yourself? This style may be for you, with its incorporation of moodier colors such as maroon and black. Moody styles can include a black cake, dress, and a “darker” aesthetic.

3. Minimalistic & Modern: Not a fan of the abundant flowers or seemingly overwhelming decorations? Want to create a simple, no-hassle environment? A minimalist/modern wedding may be right for you. It can include bold colors, geometric shapes, and a simpler design instead of the typical florals and dresses. A minimal wedding is more “green” and does not have the intricacy that goes along with a typical wedding.

4. Vintage Wedding: Want a mix of old and new? Do you want to showcase some of the energy of the ‘20s or ‘70s? Vintage weddings can include tea pots/cups, vests, pocket watches, and a whole lot of lace!

5. On-the-Beach Wedding: Relaxed and “chill” brides will find this option appealing. Guests would not have to be too formal, and the bride can wear sandals or more relaxed attire compared to a traditional wedding. Maybe you don’t want too many formalities... in that case, this one would be a perfect option!

Photographer: Jeremy Gilliam

How to NOT be a Bridezilla

Thu, 21 Jun 2018 20:54:20 GMT

Often times, in the midst of all the chaos, the lovely bride becomes… not so lovely. Although it can be a hassle to choose anything and everything when it comes to weddings, it is definitely common for a bride to become stressed and overworked when her fiancé isn’t really caring about something like the color of napkins on the table. Here are some tips and tricks on how to take a breather and actually enjoy your wedding because after all, it is one of the most important days of your life.

First things first, it is a big event which means that things will not come easy. Trust me, there will be many obstacles coming your way. However, since you happened to stumble across this blog post this means that you will know it is not the end of the world if something does not go your way.

1. MINUSCULE DETAILS DO NOT MATTER! Only you are going to notice the small details

of this wedding. Do not spend a lot of time stressing about what way the flowers are

supposed to be arranged or what kind of design will be on the wedding invitations

because at the end of the day no one will pay attention to those details except for you!

So, stick with this motto: Gather, Celebrate, and Inspire. Focus on making it a good time

for everyone and most importantly you and your soon to be husband.

2. BE OPEN MINDED! Accept what others have to say because they are only trying to

help you. It is important to seek other people’s opinions because they might have other

ideas that could truly make things easier for you. Also, be open to the fact that you may

not get exactly what you wanted and that it will work out in the end even if you think your

whole world is crashing down.

3. MULTICULTURAL MARRIAGES! In this situation, you don’t know how to please your

soon-to-be in laws because of the cultural difference. For example, in an American and

Indian Wedding, they will often have two ceremonies. One for the groom’s side and one

for the bride’s. Although it can be expensive, do not fear. Talk to your in laws and see

what you both can do to come to a compromise.

4. PICTURE PERFECT! Often times, finding a venue, photographer, florist, etc., can be

quite the struggle. However, talk to people you know and can trust to find companies

that are right for your desires. Choosing a brand-new set of options can be risky because

you will not be familiar with their style of their work. Thus, negatively impacting the

outcome of your wedding. Fortunately, when booking with Verona Villa, planning services

are included to limit the stress and make your planning process that much easier!

5. HAVE FUN! This is the most important part of it all. YOU are getting married. This is your

day to shine. Take a step back to take a moment to realize that you are about to spend

the rest of your life with your best friend. Enjoy it while you can because stressing about

this event will take all the excitement away. This is the moment you will remember for the

rest of your life... so make it a good one.

*Photo Credit: Image courtesy of IMDb, Bride Wars.

Say CHEESE!

jason@veronavilla.com (Jason Young ) — Thu, 07 Jun 2018 17:07:45 GMT

I was recently reminded of the power and meaningfulness of photography in the form of a thank you gift. As part of our efforts to give back to our community we had provided our venue and logistical support to the National Breast Cancer Foundation for the Women of Hope Awards Luncheon. After the event, I received a beautifully mounted photograph of a lighthouse in Maine taken by the NBCF President, Kevin Hail, with a touching note describing our efforts as a “lighthouse in the community”. Not only was this one of the most thoughtful and beautiful gifts I’ve ever received, it also got me thinking about the power of photography.

I have always known photography is an art form, but I have developed a deeper appreciation. When you look at a photo you are seeing the world through the eyes of that artist. It is literally a snapshot into the artist’s perspective. Great photographers can anticipate a moment before it happens. I find it interesting to look at a photo and imagine what was going through the photographer’s mind – what angle to take, what technique should be used, what they were anticipating – all to capture that perfect moment.

One of the most exciting and gratifying things of owning a venue is seeing the thousands of pictures people post on their social media. It never gets old to see Verona Villa in the background of a Facebook profile pic from guests that attended an event or even a wedding party – it is super cool! The smiles, the hugs, the dancing and the tender moments captured fill our team’s buckets daily.

We are so fortunate at Verona Villa to have the opportunity to work with tremendously talented photographers from near and far and they are some of our favorite people to build relationships with. We are always inspired by talent and beauty and these folks are no exception! Let us help you find the perfect photographer for your next special event. 1-2-3 Smile!

5 little details that will make a BIG difference at your next event

Fri, 18 May 2018 20:01:11 GMT

Whether you’re hosting a corporate retreat, conference or meeting, guest attendees always appreciate when there’s a little something extra in it for them that makes the event more memorable and fun!

Below we’re breaking down some small details that could have a BIG impact on your guests overall experience.

1. Welcome Committee – Grab your best, brightest and friendliest volunteer(s) or staff member(s) to assist in welcoming guests to your event. These should be the outgoing members of your team who are able to assist with any event related questions or directions all while giving your guests a warm welcome and thanking them for being there! Just a simple “we’re glad you’re here & thanks for coming” goes a long way.

2. Fun Signage or Décor – Everybody likes a pop of color or a design element that’s not considered traditional. If you’re able, spend a little extra of that budget by making the place your own.

3. Giveaways and/or Sweet treats for your guests to enjoy – because who doesn’t like free things and tasty afternoon cake pops or trail mix? No one, that’s who!

4. Branded or personalized supplies – if your budget allows, brand anything from napkins to cups. Guests also love having personalized journals/notepads, pens and water bottles to utilize throughout the event.

5. Don’t just use social media, integrate it into your event – Set a hashtag and encourage your guests to use it. Make sure to mention it throughout the evening and include it on your signage. It’s a great way to look back on photos from everyone!

If you're interested in booking a corporate event of any style - give us a ring at Verona Villa. Our in-house coordination services are sure to make planning easy & seamless so you can enjoy!

Small business, BIG Reward

jason@veronavilla.com (Jason Young ) — Thu, 03 May 2018 15:51:36 GMT

We are in the middle of National Small Business Week 2018! This is a week created by the U.S. Small Business Administration “to recognize the nation’s top small businesses, entrepreneurs, small business advocates and champions. Every day they’re working to grow small businesses, create 21st century jobs, drive innovation, and increase America’s global competitiveness.”

It just occurred to me that I passed my 4 year anniversary of leaving my corporate job at Nordstrom on April 28, 2014 to pursue my dream of creating my own small business. My wife Christy was 7 months pregnant with our daughter Cambria that would be born on June 23, 2014. Looking back, it seems slightly nuts to leave a corporate job 2 months before my first child was to be born, or that my 7-month pregnant wife would support such a decision!

When making the decision, I was very focused on the merits and financial validity of endeavoring to build Verona Villa. One of the things I naively did not consider was the impact it would have on my ability to be there for my family. While of course there was stress and hard work, I was able to be present with Christy on the home stretch of her pregnancy and we truly enjoyed that time together. Once Cambria was born, I was able to balance the needs of bringing my business dream to life while spending quality time with my dream that has just been fulfilled - our beautfiful baby girl.

Starting a small business has been hands down the hardest thing I have ever done. I had to be an expert in so many areas and had to laugh when I would receive a call asking to speak to the accounting department or HR - sure hold on, how can I help you. It was all me.

Starting a small business has changed my outlook on everything. I cannot help but looking at a retaining wall in a parking lot and adding up in my head how much it cost the owner. I cannot sit in a restaurant without wondering how the owner found access to capital. I know firsthand that the world is not set up for a small business owner - obtaining health insurance, getting a home mortgage - these things just are not set up for us.

But, through it all, I wouldn’t change a thing. I am blessed for the struggles, the lessons, the friendships and more than anything being able to be there for my family. I am grateful for the folks that choose us for their event space needs and for experiencing the laughter, the joy, the learning and the inspiration that takes place in our space. It is a true pleasure to see vendors that have small businesses have a place that I created to execute their talents and services. We have created thousands of hours of work for an amazing group which is one of things I am proudest of.

Big business is beautiful and important. Small business is the engine that drives our nation forward. Let’s all remember to support the folks that are working hard and took a chance to go out on their own to support their families and employees and celebrate their achievements and #shopsmall!

10 Things to ask your Wedding Planner

Fri, 20 Apr 2018 19:55:43 GMT

1. Why did you become a wedding planner?

· This is pretty straightforward – make sure they have an overall sense of excitement and passion for what they do.

2. Can you work with my budget, if so how do you plan to stay on track?

· Ask if they’ve managed a budget of your size before and if they were able to get the couple what they desired within reason.

3. What’s your preferred method of communication?

· This is critical folks – ensure that your style of communication & their style will jive, if not, ensure that you can come to a happy medium before booking.

4. Is there a timeline or system you work off of?

· Essentially, how do they stay organized. Wedding planning is no easy feat, there are a lot of moving parts and multiple ways of managing them all. Ensure that your planner knows how to keep things on track.

5. Do you have a backup plan in case something goes wrong?

· In other words, is there a plan A, B & C if perhaps it rains on the day of my wedding which is being held outdoors? Or, do you have on-call vendors who can pull through something last minute if someone were to not follow through on their word

6. What is your process of working with vendors, and/or how do you select the vendors you’re recommending?

· Why did the vendors they consistently work with become their preferred vendors? Was it personality, budget, work ethic, consistency, etc. It’s always okay to ask “why” your planner suggests something or someone.

7. Do you have any examples of other work or reviews?

· Ask to see some of their previous work via pictures, storyboard, wedding videos, etc.

8. How available are you for meetings and or calls?

· What is your schedule like and will we have to make time far in advance to get a hold of you? Is there a limit to the amount of calls/texts or communication in general?

9. Will you be there the entire time?

· This one is straightforward – will your planner do all the behind the scenes work and be there on the day of your wedding or will a coordinator or someone else be there to take the reigns.

10. How do you stay up on the latest trends or what resources do you use?

· In a nutshell, how do they know what they know? Are they continuing their education, subscribing to all the major wedding sites/blogs, active within the planner community, etc. Make sure they know their stuff!

*Photography by: Erica Mae Photography

Jessica + Kevin - Traditional Romance

Thu, 12 Apr 2018 21:00:13 GMT

*All images above ©y below are courtesy of Stephanie Erffmeyer of Gray Door Photography. You can find her work here -> http://graydoorphotography.com and the original blog post, here http://graydoorphotography.com/tradition-romance-verona-villa/

FRISCO, TX – Jessica and Kevin’s wedding day at Verona Villa was steeped in both tradition and romance. It was also full of the best kind of surprises! Between their emotional first look, family-centered tea ceremony, the tears shed during their marriage vows, a surprise serenade from the groom, some of the most epic dance moves I’ve ever seen, and a truly magical sparkler send off, these images are sure to tug at your heartstrings (and put a huge smile on your face!). I can’t count the number of times goosebumps appeared on my arms the day Jessica and Kevin wed. The air of romance and closeness on their day was the kind that takes your breath away. The level of honor and respect Jessica and Kevin share for each other, and their families, is the kind that brings tears to your eyes.

20 quotes that perfectly describe LOVE

Fri, 09 Mar 2018 20:55:11 GMT

Whether you've just found love, are heading down the aisle or even if you've just lost love, one thing we know for sure is that it's always worth it....
We also know that sometimes love is hard to put into words. In light of this, we've compiled some of our favorite love quotes to keep you inspired and give you all the feels.

1. "I look at you and see the rest of my life in front of my eyes." — (Unknown)

2. “I carry your heart (I carry it in my heart).” – ee cummings

3. “Being someone’s first love may be great, but to be their last is beyond perfect.” — Unknown Author

4. "The best love is the kind that awakens the soul; that makes us reach for more, that plants the fire in our hearts and brings peace to our minds. That’s what I hope to give you forever." — The Notebook

5. "The greatest happiness of life is the conviction that we are loved; loved for ourselves, or rather, loved in spite of ourselves." — Victor Hugo

6. "For the two of us, home isn't a place. It is a person. And we are finally home."― Stephanie Perkins

7. "To love is nothing. To be loved is something. But to love and be loved, that’s everything." — T. Tolis

8. “The greatest marriages are built on teamwork. A mutual respect, a healthy dose of admiration, and a never-ending portion of love and grace.” — Fawn Weaver

9. "I would rather spend one lifetime with you, than face all the ages of this world alone." — Lord of The Rings

10. "So, it's not gonna be easy. It's going to be really hard; we're gonna have to work at this every day, but I want to do that because I want you. I want all of you, forever, everyday. You and me ... every day."― Nicholas Sparks

11. "You are my best friend, my human diary and my other half. You mean the world to me and I LOVE YOU." — (Unknown)

12. “What greater thing is there for two human souls, than to feel that they are joined for life — to strength each other in all labor, to rest on each other in all sorrow, to minister to each other in all pain, to be with each other in silent unspeakable memories at the moment of the last parting? — George Eliot

13. “Love recognizes no barriers. It jumps hurdles, leaps fences, penetrates walls to arrive at its destination full of hope.”– Maya Angelou

14. “A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always with the same person.” – Mignon McLaughlin

15. “We loved with a love that was more than love.”– Edgar Allan Poe

16. "I choose you. And I'll choose you over and over and over. Without pause, without a doubt, in a heartbeat. I'll keep choosing you." — (Unknown)

17. "When you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible." — When Harry Met Sally

18. "All of me loves all of you." — John Legend, All of Me

19. “I love you, not only for what you are, but for what I am when I am with you. I love you, not only for what you have made of yourself, but for what you are making of me.” — Roy Croft

20."You know you're in love when you can't fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams.” — Dr. Seuss

Serve where you are...

jason@veronavilla.com (Jason Young ) — Thu, 22 Feb 2018 19:48:20 GMT

I never served in our military. On 9/11, I spent the day sitting on the floor of a Condo I had just purchased (didn’t have any furniture yet) and watched the tragic attack unfold on television. I called my Mom and with tears on my cheeks told her I was going to enlist to protect and fight for our country. She encouraged me that even though I wasn’t going to serve in uniform that there were other ways I could be of service to our country and people in general.

When I was in the process of creating Verona Villa, I had an idea before we broke ground that to celebrate our new business we could do a Hero Wedding Giveaway. I thought it would be fun to provide a “dream wedding” for a Hero and came up with the Military, First Responders and Teachers as the criteria. Since Veterans’ Day in 2017 was on a Saturday, it seemed like a perfect day to make available for this special wedding.

I put the word out looking for a couple that would be willing to have their wedding at our venue on Saturday November 11, 2017. We were blessed to receive the story of Marie and Jesse. They both served in the US Army and met while deployed in Afghanistan. They had gotten married in a courthouse in between deployments, however their family and friends were not able to attend. Jesse promised that he would give Marie the wedding she envisioned by their 5th anniversary. Well, in 2017 they were celebrating 5 years of marriage with their 2 young children and we had a blast providing an amazing day for them. It was made more sentimental when Marie’s father sadly passed away shortly after their wedding. I am grateful they were able to share that time together before he passed away.

Flash forward to the end of November and I was in the process of starting a new radio show on KVGIradio.com. We created The Gather Hour presented by Verona Villa to share information about the event industry as well as introduce our audience to the amazing people we meet every day at our venue. I got a call from the owner, Mark, who told me that he also supported Operation Rock the Troops. He was partnering with his friend Casey, the President and Executive Director of Project RELO, a non-profit that helps veterans transition to the private workforce by focusing on Handshakes not Handouts. They were thinking about doing a poker tournament with bands and stuff to raise money to support veterans. I immediately said I was in even though none of us really knew what the event would be.

Well, tonight we are hosting Casino Royale at Verona Villa. This event has grown by leaps and bounds over the last few months strictly by the passion and teamwork of a dedicated group of individuals who decided to do something great. We now have a World Series of Poker sanctioned poker tournament, great music acts, delicious food and drinks as well as other fun casino games and entertainment. Also amazing this happened during the planning process. Not only have I made friendships that I will carry forward, I have gotten to meet and talk to people that served our country and hear their stories. I have spoken to Veterans with tears in their eyes as they have described their love of their service. I have learned that there are so many ways for us to give back to these heroes and how rewarding it is to be able to not only say thank you but provide support.

It was never part of my business plan to incorporate Veteran issues. But, I’ve come to realize that it is part of my mission to serve where I am. We are in the planning stages of other exciting events in the future including Frisco’s first Veteran Ready job fair. I look forward to finding ways to partner with organizations and employers to find ways to highlight the 1.2 million Veterans that call Texas home and to let the nation know that Frisco, Texas is here for them.

Like everything she says and does, my Mom was right. It 17 years since that tragic day of 9.11.01 but I finally found my post. My mission is clear and I will work hard to make you proud.

This is only the beginning…

Tue, 13 Feb 2018 16:22:00 GMT

This past Friday night at the Frisco Chamber of Commerce Awards Gala, I had the great honor of being recognized as the 2017 Entrepreneur of the Year. While I was very humbled and grateful for this exciting recognition, it also led me to reflect on different aspects of this endeavor.

Four years ago, I was in my 17th year of a career with Nordstrom and didn’t know how to spell the word “entrepreneur.” I was being pressured to relocate to another part of the country (I lived in 3 states) and wanted to create a reason to stay in the Frisco community I had come to love. When I met my wife Christy who was born and raised in Fort Worth, I knew I needed a reason to plant roots.

While at Nordstrom, I had the opportunity to serve on the Frisco Convention and Visitors’ Bureau Board (now called Visit Frisco). This experience gave me terrific insight into the tremendous collaboration between the various city departments as well as the support of the City Council, the Mayor and the Frisco Chamber of Commerce. It became clear that if you were going to take a big chance, Frisco was the place to do it.

The other day someone commented to me that they enjoyed watching our construction process go so smoothly and how effortlessly everything came together – this could not be further from the truth! I hit almost every possible obstacle in every area from financing, land purchase, design, subcontractors, the weather, you name it! It was a daily struggle of waking up at 2am wondering how we would get to the next stage. In a later blog I will share some of these obstacles and insight as to what I learned during the process, but for today let me just say that regardless of how it looks on the outside, creating something out of nothing is not easy. It takes tremendous perseverance, thick skin, great mentors, supportive friends and family and a lot of luck. It is extremely humbling with all of the amazing people are doing in this bastion of growth to be recognized for our efforts to bring Verona Villa to life.

I am extremely thankful for the advocacy and support provided by the Frisco Chamber, particularly from the President Tony Felker. The recently retired President of the Frisco Economic and Development Corporation Jim Gandy was incredible. Former Frisco Mayor Maher Maso offered consistent support and encouragement. Current Mayor Jeff Cheney and his wife Dana as well as his Chief of Staff Lorie Medina have been an amazing blessing to us and our entire city. Our Verona Villa team has delivered on our mission from day one to create customized and personalized world-class experiences. And most importantly, our customers who have chosen us, particularly the ones before any steel was raised, with construction plans in the back of my Tahoe or at a nearby Starbucks that said yes, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. There is so much I look forward to sharing along the way. We have just begun.

How to Prepare for your Wedding Planner

Fri, 02 Feb 2018 18:58:00 GMT

Don’t think of wedding planning as a chore or something that’s going to bog you down.

The whole process of imagining your perfect day shouldn’t be daunting or even stressful, that’s what we’re here for. In an effort to help things operate more efficiently, here are some things to keep in mind when working with a wedding planner/coordinator:

Start a Pinterest and create a handful of categories of boards. If your overwhelmed by Pinterest or the thought of navigating through the countless photos makes you feel like you’re standing in the middle of Ikea on a Saturday – we get it! However, this is the easiest way for you to visualize and narrow down what you like and do not like. In turn, it helps us to envision what the overall feel of your wedding should be and or flow like. Start with boards such as table settings, décor, Wedding invitations, Wedding ceremony, florals, and build from there.

Make sure to focus on the priority items, those “must haves” for the wedding first and go from there. Your planner needs to have a firm understanding of what is most important to you so that they may achieve what you want and fit it into your budget.

Be prepared for your meetings, facetime/conference calls. The wedding planner is going to have a lot of questions for you – not only regarding the overall style and feel of the wedding but also about the actual flow and what your biggest wish or “must have” is on the day of. BE PREPARED to answer these questions and put some serious thought into it. Perhaps even start a journal to organize your thoughts. Wedding planning can be overwhelming but it’s important to remember that it doesn’t have to be! Be present when you are speaking with the planner and allow no room for distraction.

Make the extra investment – IF YOU CAN. Wouldn’t it be nice if we all had a lush money tree growing out in the backyard? Unfortunately, living in dreamland isn’t an option and the reality is that everyone has a budget. Budgets are a pesky thing. Try not to get caught up in the midst of all the fun stuff because before you know it, your whole budget is blown and you haven’t even gotten to the items on your must have list.

Trust their insight and recommendations, they want this process to go as smoothly as you do therefore, if they’re recommending a certain vendor there is probably a reason why. Either they know your personalities will mesh or simply because they just flat out do the best florals you’ve ever laid eyes on.

Be open to their suggestions – design wise. If the planner is telling you that something won’t look good, listen. They do this for a living and they’re doing it because they love it. They’ve seen a wedding. Or two…or seven hundred. Trust them.

To Recap: Wedding planning can be a lot to handle, we want you to have the wedding of your dreams complete with all the fixings minus the headache. Preparation is key and if you can make it past the initial stages, you’re all set! You have a planner for a reason… trust them – their vision, their instinct, their feedback and most importantly, their ability to keep your wedding on track and in budget!

Featured Couple – Dallas & Kelli

Fri, 19 Jan 2018 20:36:00 GMT

A true love story that as told by Kelli Nilsson, the soon to be Mrs. Dodd…

Dallas and I met in class my senior year at Texas Tech, working on a project together. We exchanged numbers, and he called me to “ask questions about the project” (he might have had other motives).

The conversation was so natural, and he kept me laughing the whole time. I’ll never forget hanging up that call and being like, “Wow. He’s awesome.”

After the project, we continued to hang out until my graduation. Since I was moving back to Dallas, and he had two more years at Tech, we decided to keep it casual. We both knew it wasn’t what we really wanted, but we also wanted to be realistic.

About six months later, he came to visit me in Dallas, and we decided we wanted to commit to a long-distance relationship. We knew it would be tough, but we made the effort to not go more than a few weeks without seeing each other.

Once he graduated from Tech, he moved back to Dallas and we got an apartment together. After a few years, we bought our house, which was our ultimate goal and what we feel is our biggest accomplishment. But of course, everyone was wondering when the heck we were going to make it official!

After 7 years together, Dallas proposed on a Christmas Caribbean cruise. Being our usual selves, we enjoyed a nice two year long engagement. But we are excited to finally celebrate our relationship, and joining of our families October 13th!

*We look forward to being a part of Dallas & Kelli’s big day at Verona Villa on October 13, 2018*

Photo Cred: Alyssa Grace Photograhy

Don’t Wake Me Up

Mon, 15 Jan 2018 15:39:00 GMT

As we celebrate Dr. Martin Luther’s King’s life and legacy today, you cannot separate the man from the word “Dream”. At the mention of his name, for me the words “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character” fill my thoughts. Being the father of a 3 ½ year old little girl that is my heart, that dream hits me even more square between the eyes. It’s one thing to want equality for all, but another to look in your precious child’s eyes with the knowledge that the world is set up to treat them differently in the eyes of the law and greater society. It is heart-wrenching to imagine the desperation and urgency of that dream.

Almost from the minute that I had the spark of the idea for creating Verona Villa, people that I encountered referred to my concept as a ‘dream’. Sometimes it was in a friendly “you should totally pursue your dream” and others not, as in “you want to start up a business that doesn’t exist that includes ground-up constructions and millions of dollars – you are dreaming”.

As I moved along in the process, my supporters continued to encourage “chasing my dream” and the naysayers mostly stood by in silent judgement, but they were always there as well. Then dirt started moving, foundation was poured steel was erected, walls, a roof, etc – and the supporters shifted to “your dream is coming true.” I could feel the sense of bewilderment from some – what is he doing, how is this happening, should I be doing something different in my life like him – almost as if people had thought bubbles over their head that I could see what they were contemplating.

When we got to the time of a grand opening, the comments became “you did it – you accomplished your dream” as well as the other folks thinking “yeah this will never work”. Pretty consistent, but just reflecting the stage of the process I was in.

Through all of these stages, both groups internally made me cringe. While I appreciated the intended encouragement of my supporters and the honesty of the naysayers, I was more adamant about making the point to myself that this project was NOT my dream. I told myself my dreams were filled with being on a beach; of watching beautiful sunrises and sunsets; of walking hand in hand with my wife while lost on a windy street in Florence; of having a healthy and strong baby girl full of confidence and hope; of seeing my brothers and sisters happy; spending too many hours on the phone with my Mom and trying to make her laugh. You know, the REAL important things to me, not a business and a building. Work to live not live to work.

But over the past 16 months, something has changed. In this place we call Verona Villa, I have had a front row seat to watch people experience life. I have seen the colorful vibrancy of traditions and faiths, the richness of diversity. I’ve watched couples along with their friends and family become one. I’ve seen corporate leaders recognize and empower their teams and introduce customers to new products and solutions. I have seen community leaders step up to share their skills to make a difference. I have seen passionate volunteers supporting causes from curing diseases, to providing essentials for those in need, to providing educational opportunities and scholarships. I have seen people baptized. I have seen people worship their chosen faith. I have seen father’s dance with their daughters, mothers dance with their sons. I have seen Bollywood style dance routines. I watched fans get to meet and interact with their hero Dallas Cowboys. I watched a memorial service for a father and husband that was almost exactly my age. I have had conversations that I would have never met with people that have enriched my soul.

This past Friday night, there was an event that was produced by Linking Cultures of Frisco and lead by Pastor Dono and Angelia Pelham. It was a beautiful event celebrating Dr. King’s Dream and included a re-enactment reading of the full text of the 1963 I Have a Dream speech. Before dinner, Pastor Pelham took me by the hand to the front of the room while everyone was networking and getting settled to eat. We stood together him not letting go of my hand, and he said “Look around this room. Look at what is happening in this place”. Then he was quiet, because when he asks you to do something, it just seems like a good idea to do it. As I looked around the room and saw the beautiful diversity of people, a movie was playing in my head of all that I saw in the last 16 months. The tears of joy and sorrow, the hugs of love and comfort, the team building exercises, the Dad seeing his daughter in her wedding dress for the first time, the prayers, the worship, the sounds of groups of people singing/laughing/furiously applauding.

Pastor Pelham looked me in eyes like it was only me and him in the whole state of Texas. He said to me, “Do you know why this is happening right here, right now? This is happening because you said ‘Yes’”. Pastor Pelham also said to me, you need to write this down. Well here I am and like I said, the man is persuasive.

I have come to realize that try as I might to fight it, this is a dream. Don’t wake me up.

Word of 2018 – Connection

Fri, 05 Jan 2018 20:26:00 GMT

CONNECTION

Noun – anything that connects; a connecting part; link; bond.

In a world full of people what is more satisfying than forming a genuine and real connection with someone? What can be more powerful and uplifting than being able to say that you’ve formed a new bond or strengthened an already existing relationship whether it be personal, familial, or work related? As Tom Ford so eloquently said, “the most important things in life are the connections you make with others.” If you think about it, eventually everything connects. Every relationship formed has a purpose and a greater reasoning behind it that elevates something in your life whether it be personal or professional which is why CONNECTION is our ever so important chosen word of 2018.

Connection to our Clients: At Verona Villa, providing a customizable experience catered to your needs is our T O P priority. We pride ourselves in offering an expert level of customer service while getting to know each and every individual who walks through our doors on a personal level. In the New Year, we hope to connect on an even deeper level with our future clients as we aim to enhance their vision for a successful event and deliver nothing short of the very best.

Connection to our Community: Being a part of the Frisco, TX community is a huge part of who Verona Villa is. We love what we do and we love where we live which is why we make it a point to invest and give back to the community. In 2017 we were fortunate enough to cultivate partnerships/relationships with The Frisco Chamber of Commerce, Frisco Women’s League, Collin County Meals on Wheels, Frisco Arts, The National Breast Cancer Foundation, Frisco Young Life, and MORE! In 2018 we hope to strengthen and expand those relationships as our connection to the community becomes stronger and more present.

Connection to our Vendors: As a standard, Verona Villa partners with various vendors from an array of industries on a daily basis. We are proud to be a venue of choice rather than set rules when it comes to whom our clients wish to be a part of their special day. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance to us that we build and maintain solid relationships with reputable vendors so that we are able to suggest the best in the business to our clients. In 2018, we aspire to enhance our existing relationships and seek out new relationships that will benefit our future clients.

Connection within our Team: The team here at Verona Villa is a tight knit group with a vibrant outlook on everything we do. On a daily basis, we strive to work together to achieve goals and deliver events with solid execution that only one could dream of. Our tagline here at VV is Gather – Celebrate – Inspire. Our team truly embodies this spirit as we aim to gather each day, celebrate every successful event and inspire each other always. In light of our already solid relationship, we go in to the New Year with all the confidence in the world that we can grow even closer and deliver events that we’ll remember for the rest of our lives!

If you can’t already tell, we are incredibly passionate about our word of the year, C O N N E C T I O N.

I’ll leave you with this simple note…

C O N N E C T I O N is CONTAGIOUS!

Cheers to A New Year!

Sat, 30 Dec 2017 18:34:00 GMT

With the New Year vastly approaching, it’s only appropriate to take the time to reflect on the last year. Isn’t it amazing that another year has come and gone? As we end this year and move on to the next, it brings back a lot of memories of the wonderful moments shared here at Verona Villa.

In our first year of business, Verona Villa has seen 42 weddings and 30 corporate/charitable events all of which have brought about lasting connections and unforgettable times. We, as a team here at Verona Villa could not be more grateful for all of you who have let us take part in your special event.

With the New Year comes a certain buzz and vibe—not only about resolutions and plans for the year ahead but an energy about what you’re going to be doing, where you’re going to be, and who you’re going to be with. As we look on to the next year, engagement season will slowly come to a close and there will be a hustle and bustle surrounding spring weddings and life events. We’re looking forward to 2018 being another incredible year full of love, laughter, beautiful centerpieces, good food, and most importantly more of YOU!

Tell us… What has you excited about the New Year?

Why a theme for your event is more critical than you may think…

Fri, 08 Dec 2017 16:40:00 GMT

When you’ve been in the event space for as long as we have, you learn a thing or two about creating excitement and buzz when it comes to a carefully thought out and executed party. While a theme isn’t necessary or appropriate in all settings, it certainly heightens the experience to those in attendance and we are big believers in that!

One of the biggest drivers towards that excitement first and foremost starts with a theme. Whether it be simple or extravagant, a theme sets the mood and tone of the event before you even step through the doors.

How so you ask? Well, the answer is simple really…

When is the last time you attended a corporate gathering or a birthday party where you said to someone “Oh, I have a corporate thing tonight” or “I have to go to some birthday party?”

We all casually throw around going to these events however, when there’s a theme involved, it suddenly turns into… “Oh my gosh, I’ve got this really cool Speakeasy themed event I’m headed to tonight. I’m wearing a beautiful feather headpiece and I have an elegant old fashioned style costume to put on, I can’t wait.”

BAM! Instant game changer right there. Don’t you hear the vibe suddenly shift? We do…

With that vibe and awareness comes eagerness to share and relate to other people in attendance whom you might normally not engage with. Think about it… Having a theme promotes social interaction and awareness not only to the theme and event itself but for the purpose behind the event which in turn gets people talking and sharing about the gathering & themselves!

Bottom Line: if you have an event coming up whether its a social event, birthday party, corporate gathering or even holiday party – consider ramping up the emotion by choosing a theme that will make your event one to remember!

The Gather Hour

Tue, 05 Dec 2017 21:04:00 GMT

Calling all Event Lovers!

The time has finally come for Verona Villa’s event enthusiasts, Jason & Amanda to penetrate the airwaves on The Gather Hour by brightening your Wednesday morning with fresh and informative insight into the world of events. Grab your salad or cake (we don’t judge) and schedule a date with us beginning Wednesday 12/6/2017 @ 11:00am on KVGIradio.com. No show will be the same, that’s right – each week will be a focused topic from the latest trends to bringing two families together, no topic is off limits. Join us for what’s sure to be the highlight of your Wednesday!