Naples DJ: New at the Naples Beach Hotel

TIPS FOR A GREAT RECEPTION:

1.) Have the bar in the same room as the reception. People tend to naturally gravitate to the bar, so keeping it in the room will keep them near the fun.

2.) DJ by the dance floor! Your DJ & the sound system needs to be at the edge of the dance floor. Do not make the mistake of having the DJ place the loud speakers a distance away from the dance floor. Playing music over & thru the guest tables can make for an uncomfortable experience.

3.) When arranging the seating chart, it's important to have your relatives seated close by. It's a great suggestion to not have Grandma and Grandpa sit in front of where the speakers may be placed.

4.) You are the party. When you dance, the dance floor will be full. Realize that if you spend your time visiting or outside, your guests will be wherever you are at. So dance all night!

5.) Arrange with the catering manager to have some hors d'oeuvres and your favorite drinks ready for you and the bridal party immediately after photos. You'll be glad you did.

Saturday, March 2, 2013

New at the Naples Beach Hotel

On Thursday evening we were invited by the Naples Beach Hotel to check out their newest renovations, having completely redesigned the famed "Everglades Room" and adjoining spaces.

The Naples Beach Hotel's Everglades room is just off the lobby and features panoramic views to the Gulf of Mexico. It is also the room most chosen for wedding receptions. It is now an entirely new space.

The room's updates included an expansion of the room, and a raised ceiling highlighted by beautiful chandeliers and providing increased acoustical enhancements. The lighting control has always been very good in the room, and the on-site A/V manager Kenny Graham was raving to me about the expanded abilities the new room offers with directional lighting and built in A/V capabilities. .

Chef had provided a wonderful spread for the guests, from sushi to jumbo shrimp. The hotel's owner Michael Watkins came by to say hello and to see the new space.

The staff at the Naples Beach Hotel is both excellent and friendly. As the room has been closed since the summer of 2012, we are looking forward to our next celebration in this beautiful space.