Marlene Dietrich was a Hollywood starlet that knew how to make an entrance.
When she walked into a room, men stopped in their tracks. Her press photos alone influenced women’s hair style, makeup and most importantly, demonstrated the quality of being alluring. I think that allure is such a rare thing today.
Allure is being sensual, provocative, unexpected yet understated. Frankly, I hope I still have a little. Which brings me to Elaine Tenzer…
I have always adored Elaine. She is a lovely person and has a classic and timeless style. When I thought about Meredith’s Wedding, I knew Elaine would wear something elegant but probably low-key…man was I off on that one. I was in the South Ballroom with the other vendors setting up the ceremony when Elaine walked into the doorway.
VA-VA-VOOM! Obviously Mama had a brand new bag.
Elaine was breathtaking in a fitted, strapless evening gown of crystal embellished silk. The color changed from silver to burnished bronze to a rosy peach. I swear that my jaw hit the floor and so did every other man in the half mile vicinity. Yow Za! I hope the band members recovered after falling all over each other. I still smile when I think about the way that Elaine looked that day…ala femme fatale!
Not to ignore Bride Meredith…she looked gorgeous. Meredith wore a fitted, all lace mermaid sheath dress with straps. Robert George and I both agreed she should be in a Bridal Magazine. Meredith kept it simple with her hair loose and just a touch of makeup…amazing. And then introduce GQ groom Joe and we had pretty much cornered the market on beauty that Saturday night!
I like to think I added that little something extra…
The ceremony was beautiful with an aisle drenched in all white and cream flowers and candles. And guests entered the Grand Lobby to find delectable passed hors d’oeuvres and a spectacular “Comfort Food” Station with beef tenderloin mini burgers, baked mac and cheese martinis and pomme frites. Yummy! Several people were shocked when we rang the dinner bell because the hors d’oeuvres were so extensive. The cupcake wedding cake was beyond belief, The Fabulous Motown Review rocked the house and later we opened a confection station with all sorts of rich, sinful chocolate desserts and caramel apples. As I always say, it has no calories if it looks beautiful.
Many families could take notes from Elaine and Meredith. The greatest lesson is to be yourself and be fabulous. Create areas of high impact, spoil and pamper your guests and work with the venue to extend your look and give it a richer feel. Take some chances with culinary and have items you love and that make you happy…like sliders, cupcakes and caramel apples!
Photos do not do this event justice although Robert George’s album is beyond belief. You set the bar Robert. I have thrown in a favorite photo of us striking a vogue pose.
Don, Elaine, Meredith and Joe, I will never forget you.
Elaine, let’s get together soon and talk about how much we hate buffets!
Elaine is all about allure. Glamour shots with me are always optional.
Rob Schaefer
