Charity Shootout 2012

This week our team assisted Jen O' Sullivan at her annual Charity Shootout Event, where engaged couples test drive various wedding photographers in hopes of finding the right one.  The event raised over $5,000 for Hathaway Sycamores, an organization dedicated to helping families and children who have suffered a severe loss.

This year's shootout was held at the Historic Castle Green in Pasadena, which is an ideal location for couples who love a lush outdoor garden ceremony, but prefer an indoor reception.  The main ballroom equipped with beautiful hardwood floors can fit up to 220 seated. This location is truly a standout in the Southern California area.

The day's events began with a little pampering for the brides as they were treated to complimentary hair and makeup by the industry's top artists.  After some primping the brides met their grooms for mini photo shoots with up to 5 photographers.  There were over 15 Southern California wedding photographers in attendance working their magic behind the camera with the help of the gorgeous Castle Green backdrop. 

Meanwhile in the main ballroom we had close to 20 vendors showcasing their best products, food & services.  The vendors included Jen O'Sullivan Boutique Wedding Photography, Mary Dann Wedding and Party Coordinators, 11 H Entertainment, Smile Lounge, Calligraphy by Katrina, Anna Elyse Bridesmaids, Designer Specialty Linens, Cake Studio, Castle Catering, Castle Green, The Fry Girl, Best Party Psychic Ever - Suzanne Wyman, Heels Above, Butterfly Floral and Event Design, Rasta Taco, Independent Beverage, Fresita USA, Painter of the Moment-Richard Flynn.

As if that weren't enough, there was an exciting auction going on with over $25,000 worth of items up for grabs!  Items included tiara's, shoes, 15 dresses (5 wedding and 10 evening), purses, a photo booth, dessert station, one night stay at the Langham Hotel in Pasadena, makeup, personal training, restaurant gift cards, wedding planning with us and so much more! Our team couldn't resist, we bid on some fun items and won a few!

Check out this beautiful video of the event from Ariel Amaro

http://www.charityshootouts.com

If you missed out, but would still like to donate click below.  Every little bit helps!  Thanks for supporting us & Hathaway Sycamores!

http://charityshootoutpasadenadonate.eventbrite.com/


Happy Friday!

Janel Gonzalez, Event Manager
Mary Dann Wedding & Party Coordinators

Calligraphy by Katrina

Flowers by Butterfly Floral

Jen O Sullivan Photography

Heels Above

The Fry Girl

Fresita Cocktails

Our lovely clients Michelle & Wes

Thanks Jen for my new headshot!

Mary Dann Wedding and Party Coordinators on Rue la la

Mary Dann Wedding and Party Coordinators is thrilled to be teaming up with Rue La La!

Starting this Thursday, we will be offering our Three-Month Wedding Countdown Package at a very special 20% discount.  

Don't wait, because this Rue La La deal must be redeemed between November 11, 2011 and May 11, 2012 and your wedding date must be by or before June 1, 2012.

We can't wait to help you plan your special day!

New Mentorship Opportunity - Terranea Resort!

I am thrilled to announce a new Mentorship opportunity that has just become available!
I have a new opening to increase your wedding planning experience and wedding wisdom on September 2 + 3, 2011 at The Terranea Resort, Rancho Palos Verdes.  Your Friday and Saturday will be filled with education, inspiration and hands on experience to take your business to the next level. 

Day 1 will be filled with office training and education on how my business is run.
Day 2 will be filled with shadowing me while I lead my team, orchestrate a rehearsal, manage vendors and help clients through their magical wedding day (from set up to break down). 


All will take place at the beautiful Terranea Resort!

At the end of your mentorship you will receive a certificate of completion, an autographed signed copy of my book, Wedding Wisdom, and 2 hours career counseling time for follow up.  The reduced mentorship fee is $ 1,500. (a $1,500 savings)  Please note: travel fees are not included, but I will get you the lowest available room rates at this amazing resort.

See what Janet had to say about her past mentorship with Mary:
Mary, 
Words will never be enough to thank you for the wonderful time I had with you!  It was  so  Amazing to be able to be a part of your life if only for 3 days!!!  I look forward to our next time together! I am so happy to have gained you as a friend and mentor.  I will treasure our time we shared  forever!
Warmest Wishes to you and your family!Janet

Below are images of Terranea. Enjoy!

Much Gratitude!
Mary Dann-McNamee

Mary Dann Behind the Scenes!

Thanks to Godfather Films for the video and editing!

My Speaking Tour

I just returned from a world wind of book signing and speaking presentations! I had such a blast!! My first stop was the Bahamas with WPIC (The Wedding Planners Institute of Canada).
I presented to over 200 planners on a subject near and dear to my heart: Staying Physically, Emotionally, & Spiritually Balanced As You Navigate The Planning Process. It was an amazing 5 days of book signings, speaking and career counseling--and I spent the last full day renting a cabana at the exclusive Cove Beachside Resort at Atlantis! I am so grateful that Danielle and Tracy, the founders of WPIC, asked me to be a part of the event. Enjoy some pics below!

My next stop was Phoenix, for the ABC (Association of Bridal Consultants) annual conference. It was a full day of book singing and I presented on “Hot Wedding Trends, Gismos, and Gadgets” with Elise Enloe to kick off the convention! Here are a few pics from the event:

My final stop was speaking at The Party Goddess, Uncensored Event at The Palomar Hotel in Hollywood. Marley Majcher of The Party Goddess was there, and a panel of us shared insights and gave tools for dealing with two different personality types: the leader and the follower. It was such a fun time! Below are some images, taken by Jen O Sullivan. More to come!

I had such an amazing time at all of these events, and I feel so grateful that I was able to be a part of them!

Much Gratitude,
Mary Dann-McNamee