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Aug
02

REAL WEDDING: Meet Sarah & Evan

Fact is, we have the best clients. It is always a treat for us to collaborate with a couple and their families to create the wedding weekend of their dreams. Each couple is unique and special to us—planning their wedding becomes personal to our team, as though it were our own. That is a feeling we relish, and our clients appreciate, often forging a relationship beyond the big day. That being said, we are thrilled to begin our Real Wedding Spotlights. Our first feature is the wedding of Sarah and Evan. As a designer, Sarah had great ideas and fabulous taste – always a fun collaboration. These two were relaxed, open minded and a great match, as is reflected by their cool-vibe beach wedding. Martha Stewart agrees, you can see more of this picture perfect day on her site here! We absolutely love this pair and their fabulous families!

Sarah & Evan

How and when did you meet?

We met through a mutual friend while Evan was temporarily living in NYC getting his JD/MBA. She insisted that we’d be the perfect match, but I kept turning down her efforts to set us up after a string of bad blind dates. Finally she showed up at my apartment one day with Evan in tow (no warning!) and the rest is history.

When is your anniversary

June 1st

Tell us your proposal story…

We were living in Miami Beach and my brother had come down to visit. We all went to our favorite hotel, The Standard, for lunch. While we were walking through the garden on the way to the table my brother stepped away to make a phone call and Evan proposed. Both of our families were waiting for us and we spent the weekend at the hotel. Evan also arranged a fun boat ride from the hotel to dinner downtown. It was a total surprise!

Where did you have your wedding?

Bridgehampton Surf & Tennis Club

Who designed your dress and accessories?

Monique Lhullier gown & antique diamond earrings (a family heirloom)

Who designed your tuxedo/suit?

JCrew

Why did you choose to have a Hamptons wedding?

We got married at the Bridgehampton Surf & Tennis club down the street from my parents’ house. We knew we wanted an East End wedding because we look forward to summer out there all year long, and it is definitely the most meaningful place for us and both of our families (Evan’s parents also had a home on Shelter Island for many years). In fact, we only looked at one venue. It was the perfect location. We were able to relax and spend the day getting ready at the house. We got married on the sand (a lot of us went barefoot!), and the clubhouse was basically a blank slate for the florist to transform.

What made you choose to work with Jill Gordon Celebrate?

We chose to work with Jill because the minute we met her we knew she was the right fit. She exudes a laid back bohemian spirit and in a sense, that’s how we wanted our wedding to feel too! We never felt stressed throughout the planning process, as so many people do, and we attribute that to Jill’s organization and experience.

What was your favorite part of the planning process? What was your favorite part of your wedding day?

I’m a very visual person so my favorite part was visiting our florist Saipua at her studio in Red Hook to look at flowers. But Evan’s was the food tasting and picking the band. We both agree that our favorite part of the day was at the end of the night when our band played Shout. It seemed like every single person we know was on the dance floor. Having s’mores on the beach in front of our house with everyone late night was pretty great too…

Please tell us vendors you loved, and why they were standouts?

Happy Menocal was one of my favorites. She’s a true artist – she’s quirky and has amazingly unique style. She ended up doing not only our invitation suite, but also the menus, signage, our ketubah, thank you cards, and even painted roman numerals on found driftwood for our table numbers! I knew whatever she did would be perfect and different from anything else I’d seen – that was important to me.

Are there any words of wisdom you have for couples going through the planning process?

Planning a wedding is supposed to be fun – make sure you have some! Working with Jill made that easy.

And working with Sarah and Evan made things easy for us too! A huge thanks for participating, and for the kind words. Keep an eye out for more real wedding features on our blog!

Stunning images from famed photographer Max Wanger. His work is breathtaking and unforgettable.

Happy Menocal’s art added such beauty to the day. The menu served also as the place card. Gorgeous!

Gorgeous table of cakes from Mali B Sweets. It was something out of a fairy tale, and each cake was a different flavor.

 

Wedding Planner: Jill Gordon Celebrate

Venue: Bridgehampton Tennis and Surf Club

Photographer: Max Wanger

Flowers: Saipua

Caterer: Robbins Wolfe

Invitations & Stationary: Happy Menocal

Tent: NY Tent

Lighting: Matt Murphy Event Lighting

Music: Groove Society

Cake: Mali B Sweets 

Rentals: Party Rentals

Apr
04

Video Love–There Ain’t Nothing Quite Like It

Years ago, I was at a family dinner when a cousin pulled out a party film from the 1940’s. My mother was a child, as were her cousins; my grandparents and their siblings were in their ‘20’s and ‘30’s. It was like walking into a time warp – so exciting and emotional to see my family young and vibrant, before I entered the world.

That was the moment I realized how important a wedding video could be – a moving historic legacy to pass along to future generations. While still pictures are a beautiful document of the day, a moving film tells a completely different story.

When we started this business, 20-something years ago, videos were tragically tacky and intrusive. No longer the case. We are lucky to work with some extremely talented film-makers whose work gives me goose-bumps at every viewing. Case in point: this beautiful film of Tassara and Paul’s wedding this past September in Water Mill.

This movie, by our dear friend Nate Best, tells the story of their day, their love and their families. Take a look, maybe shed a tear and definitely share the joy!!! Thanks, Tassara and Paul, for letting us share your beautiful day.

Jan
06

“Shine a Light” with Twirl New York

Christian Oth Studios; Matt Murphy Lighting, Inc.

Twirl New York is a website and growing network and of all things “wedding” in our great city. They are becoming a go-to source for luxury wedding venues, caterers, planners and fashion. At jill gordon celebrate, each wedding we plan is unique to the couple, and Twirl shares this vision. Their goal is to create customized content for each individual bride and groom.

Each season, Twirl publishes a digital book, breaking down the hottest upcoming wedding trends, designs, and fashion. Thank you, Twirl, for including us in your Winter 2016 Book, showcasing event lighting work we have been able to create at our events! You can see the book at twirlweddings.com, and check out the article titled “Shine a Light”, on page 34.

Special thanks to Twirl New York for the shout out, and to Matt Murphy Lighting and Luminous Event Design —without them, many of our Hamptons events would be in the dark!

www.jillgordoncelebrate.com
1. Art Beauty Life, Jenny Ebert Photography; Luminous Designs
Dec
21

Holiday Gift Guide Part 2: Gadgets and Goods

We’re getting down to the nitty gritty of holiday shopping this week. In Part 1 of our Holiday Gift Guide, we gave you the run down on the Hampton’s hottest experiences for your dude. This installment focuses on some of the best gadgets, tools and goods for the man in your life!

1. Deck His Phone with the Radius v3 iPhone Case

This chic and simple iPhone case is a great stocking stuffer for the man who likes to keep it sleek. Apple has designed such a beautiful phone, it’s a shame to wrap it in a bulky case. Referred to as the iPhone bikini, this sleek and slim aluminum bracket offers all the protection without the bulk. Choose from a variety of fabulous finishes including gold, titanium and rose gold. Starting at $79.99. bitemyapple.co

2. Bring in the Noise with the Tabletop Hifi Speaker Cabinet

Maybe the most beautiful speaker on the planet, SYMBOL Audio’s speaker cabinet is the perfect gift for the design- and sound-obsessed man in your life. With a Belkin Wireless Bluetooth Receiver and auxiliary input access, the Tabletop Hifi will never be obsolete. The system incorporates two high efficiency full range drivers with titanium cones and a subwoofer for a big bass response. A variety of front panel and speaker colors makes this the perfect accessory for any room. We want one!! Priced at $1,995. Tabletop Hifi Speaker Cabinet shop.symbolaudio.com

3. Cozy Up With Stellar Fireplace Accessories from Homenature

Eventually, these mid-50’s are going to disappear into a pile of snow. Head to Homenature in Southampton for a selection of gorgeous fireplace accessories before the frost sets in. Then you can cuddle by the fire!

Crystal Fireplace Screen, Large. $1170.
Hand Forged Iron Tool Set, $895
Chimo Wood Rack, Square. $295

Homenature, 6 Main Street, Southampton; tel. 631-287-6277. Homenature.com.

4. Quoddy Men’s Classic Ring Leather Boot

This hand-stitched moccasin is a household OBSESSION here at Jill Gordon Celebrate. Stylish, comfortable and oh-so-cool, this leather bootie is a must-have in our book. You can customize the color, sole, hardware and even stitching making this a most personalized gift. Because it’s handmade, every pair fits differently; you have 30 days for a full refund or exchange (so wear ‘em inside only). While you’re at it, get a pair for yourself!! $375, Men’s Classic Ring Boot. quoddy.com

5. For the Handyman—an Andrew McAteer Toolbox

Andrew McAteer designs and hand-produces all of his goods in his studio in Astoria, Queens. He started creating bag and carriers when he found that many of the items on the market were not versatile or flexible. Catering to the needs of the on-the-go man, this tanned leather toolbox is 17”x 8”x 8”, with leather hinges and a pivoting handle that lays flat, making this extremely useful and STYLISH! Guaranteed, your man will be the only one on the block with this fabulous toolbox. $275. Andrew McAteer Toolbox-Large. aemcateer.com.

6. Shop Local at BookHampton

What better to give or receive than a fabulous book. Here are our three faves for the holiday season from our local Book Hampton.

Saturday Night Live: The Complete History by Alison Castle. The Complete History celebrates the history of 40 years of Saturday Night Live. Star-studded and timeless, this coffee table book includes over 2,300 pictures as well as interviews with Lorne Michaels, a breakdown of an SNL writer’s work-week and a reference guide of every season, including the casts, hosts, and guests stars since 1975. $49.99

Bond By Design: The Art of the James Bond Films by DK. Featuring the work of legendary Bond film designers like Ken Adam, Peter Almont, and Syd Cain, this book is guaranteed to thrill any fan of the classic super spy. With up-to-date artwork and behind the scenes of the latest installment, SPECTRE, this book gives an insight into the art and design of this monumental film franchise. $49.99

Bob Dylan All the Songs: The Story Behind Every Track by Philippe Margotin and Jean-Michael Guesdon. This is the most comprehensive account of Bob Dylan’s work to date. The full story of every recording session, album and single the icon ever released is featured, giving a detail insight into Dylan’s creative style and recording process over his legendary 53-year career.$49.99


7. Power Beats 2 Bluetooth in Ear Headset from Geek Hampton

Designed for athletes, these headphones are the most popular on the market right now. Wireless Bluetooth capability allows you to connect from up to 30 feet away from your device. They have a rechargeable battery with up to 6 hours of playback, and a 15min power-up charge that allows for an extra hour of your favorite workout tunes. Sweat resistant, water resistant and hands free calling—all in a pair of headphones. Best part? These sweet headphones are sold at Geek Hampton in Sag Harbor, so you can get the latest in audio technology while shopping local. Sounds like a win-win to us! Starting at $199.95. Geek Hampton. 34 Bay Street, Sag Harbor. 631-723-3660

8. Kaufman Mercantile Brass & Walnut Pour-Over Coffee Brewer

You didn’t know you needed this, but if you are a caffeine junkie, it’s a must have for your in-home café. Developed by coffee lovers for coffee lovers, this simple brewing system easily adjusts to accommodate any size carafe or mug. Each stand is hand-made in the United States, with walnut wood bases and brass fittings. This pour-over system even has the MIT stamp of approval: their scientists have declared this “the scientifically proved ‘best cup of coffee’”. We don’t think there is any other way to start your morning. $179. kaufman-mercantile.com

Dec
16

HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE Part 1: Experience It in the Hamptons

Is it really that time of year again?!?! Here in East Hampton, it’s a balmy 50-something-degrees and sunny (how fabulous), and we’re lagging on the holiday gift-shopping routine. If you’re anything like us, you’re probably scrambling to find gifts for family, friends, and significant others. Since we find that MEN are particularly hard to shop for, we’ve scoured our favorite local haunts to find the hot-ticket items for your honey this holiday season.

Wolffer Estate Vineyards Wine Club Membership

Who doesn’t love a long, lazy (boozy) afternoon lounging on Wolffer’s terrace? A wine club membership offers you a taste of that experience year-round with quarterly wine shipments at discounted prices, complimentary premium tastings, exclusive Wine Club events and the opportunity to purchase new wines before they’re released to the public. With three amazing membership packages, the options are as bold and delicious as Wolffer’s wine selection. The perfect gift for the wine lover or aspiring sommelier – and one that you’ll have fun sharing. From $45 to $180 per quarterly shipment. Wolffer Estate Vineyards: www.wolffer.com; 139 Sagg Road, Sagaponack; tel. 631-537-5106.

Domaine Franey’s Hottest Commodity: BOURBON!

Domaine Franey is our go-to wine and liquor source in East Hampton. Focusing on small wine make, they know how to find great wines at a surprisingly great price point. We also appreciate their knowledgeable and helpful staff. So we had to ask General Manager David Mikan what hot-ticket liquor item was being gifted this holiday season. His answer? “Bourbon. Any kind. It’s flying off the shelves so quickly that there is actually a bit of a shortage around here.” Move over Rosé!

We think a triumvirate tasting is the way to go. David’s favorite brand of bourbon is tied—Widow Jane ($62.99) and Woodford Reserve ($39.99). Add in a comfortable bottle of Bulleit (just coming back into stock at $36.99) and you’ve got a man-pleasing gift! Domaine will gift-wrap and ship for the on-the-fly shopper, and they also offer gift certificates in case you’re buying for a picky palate! Domaine Franey: www.domainefraney.com; 459 Pantigo Road, East Hampton; tel. 631-324-0906.

Harbor Market and Kitchen Gourmet Gift Bags
If you haven’t already, go check out Harbor Market and Kitchen, Sag Harbor’s new hot-spot for fabulous prepared foods and pizzas, great gourmet market items and the best cold-pressed iced coffee. Everything in the market is carefully selected from wonderful small purveyors, many of them local (Vine Street Café’s Mushroom Bolognese, Hamptons Artisan Finishing Sea Salt, Aldo’s organic coffees). This holiday season, HMK is creating delectable assortments in their signature burlap bags – a perfect gift for the man who likes to cook, hopefully for you. Three favorite selections: The Pasta Bag ($120), The Cocktail Bag ($125), The Coffee and Tea Bag ($105). We think that these essentials are perfect for the chef in your life, however Harbor Market and Kitchen also offers gift certificates for the uncertain gift giver. Harbor Market and Kitchen: www.harbormarket.com; 184 Division Street, Sag Harbor; tel. 631-725-4433.

Community Garden Membership at Bridge Gardens
Few things are more satisfying than growing your own garden—starting with nothing and creating a beautiful something is not easy! At Bridge Gardens, a community garden part of Peconic Land Trust**, 5’ x 12’ garden plots are available for $100 per year. Any gardener, novice or expert, would love growing their own produce or flowers in this community which hosts a plethora of education classes on art, music and gardening, as well as conversations with local gardening experts. A membership to the Gardens gains you access to the gardens, a spot on their newsletter list and discounted admission to all lectures, garden workshops and musical events—all for just $50. Bridge Gardens: www.peconiclandtrust.org/bridge_gardens.html; 26 Mitchells Lane, Bridgehampton; tel. (631)283-3195.
** Peconic Land Trust is a non-profit organization that seeks to ensure the protection of Long Island’s working farms, natural lands, and heritage

Spa Essentials from Naturopathica
The holidays can be really stressful. Our antidote: some serious pampering at Naturopathica Spa. Their talented and professional massage therapists will make you feel comfortable from the minute you walk in, and we guarantee you’ll walk out a brand new relaxed individual. For the athlete in your world, the Alpine Deep Tissue Massage (30 minutes $75 / 60 minutes $135 / 90 minutes $180) is an essential for muscle recovery, relaxing those stiff joints, and pain relief. The Men’s Rebalancing Facial (30 minutes $70 / 60 minutes $130) renews skin tone and texture while soothing the effects of the sun and razor burn on the skin, keeping your man’s skin smooth to the touch. To maintain that just-pampered feeling, give him the men’s Clarifying Facial Wash ($36), Daily Defense Moisturizer ($58), Soothing Shave Cream ($26) and Arnica Muscle & Joint Gel (28).
After all the holiday madness, you deserve a little something too. We suggest the Royal Thai Massage (90 minutes, $185). This 2,500- year old Buddhist technique is guaranteed to relieve tension and re-energize your body after a long and busy holiday season. Naturopathica East Hampton: www.naturopathica.com; 74 Montauk Highway, East Hampton; tel. 631-329-2525

Jill Gordon Celebrate loves the holidays and loves the Hamptons. What better way to celebrate than to shop local and give unique, thoughtful gifts to those on your list this year? Coming soon: Part II of the Holiday Gift Guide, where JGC tells you all of our favorite toys and gadgets to gift your guy this year!

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  • Designing and planning weddings, events, parties, spaces and fun of all varieties. Celebrating life in the hamptons, sometimes yearning for my home town of NYC. Loving art, design, travel, food, fashion, architecture, photography and all things beautiful. Hoping to spend more time on the beach, in my garden, driving with the top down, traipsing in any far-away land. Posting any little thing that catches my fancy and hope you'll come along for the ride.

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