Project Love Blog

Tip of the Week: My Next Incarnation of the Candy Bar!

admin — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 03:42:42 +0000

The popularity of candy bars has every bride asking for apothecary jars filled with miniature snicker bars and color-coordinated jelly bellies. I empathize with bride’s enthusiasm as I designed my first candy bar with the help of Dylan’s Candy Bar at Nas and Kelis’ 2005 nuptials. Lauren Dylan created custom chocolate molds of music inspired that included musical notes, miniature microphones and CD’s. In addition, she brought in white chocolate and milk chocolate fountains along with a few classic childhood favorites consisting of milk chocolate and almond candy bars, chocolate kisses and yes personalized M&M’s. As I’ve watched this trend grow in popularity and become more conventional, I have been eagerly anticipating its next incarnation.

Laduree Bar - Paris, France

My Design Coordinator Tiffany Pompey and I have been hard at work designing an upcoming French inspired party brainstorming for hours on end for ideas to restore glamour, elegance and sophistication to the concept of a designated dessert space. My web browsing led me to Ladurée – the French Chocolatier and creator of the original Macaroon. Little did I know that my travels last year would take me to Paris Fashion Week and subsequently the opportunity to experience what the French already know – dessert is as important as the main entrée and deserves to be treated as such.

I snuck away one afternoon to Ladurée on Champs-Elysees to try and understand the French’s adoration of this famous dessert boutique. A few hours at the uber-fabulous bar at Ladurée left me with more than enough inspiration for my upcoming dessert installation. The great thing about my time at Ladurée and the experience that inspired me is that it showed me a perspective that I had not previously been aware of. It peaked a thought process that I could not discover on my own. My visit to Ladurée was not the answer to my design dilemma, as I would never duplicate something that another artist has already conceived. However, it proved what I already suspected to be true – dessert is a time-honored tradition that deserves to be savored beautifully and fabulously…something great is percolating and will come to life because of my brief time spent in Paris sipping champagne and savoring every bite of a Key Lime Macaroon tart.

So how will you re-design your next incarnation of the candy bar?

Keep spreading the love,

Join the Diann Valentine family and share how you will interpret your next candy bar?

Best Moments of 2011!

admin — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 21:11:42 +0000

This year has passed faster than any other year in my career. Maybe it was because I traveled more this year than any previous years or maybe it was because I finally reached the goal of hosting my own show? I’m not sure but I’m absolutely certain that I worked harder this year with more focus and tenacity than ever before. I once believed that success meant conquering some far off goal or arriving at a magical destination. However, this year has taught me that success lies only in the journey of living my dreams and what a journey it has been. From the very early morning call times to the hysterical crying spells I experienced some morning while riding to the set of I Do Over to traveling the world with my husband and daughter because I begged them to experience every moment with me…this is called enjoying the journey. The time has come for me to review the goals I set for last year and identify new goals for the coming year but it would be blasphemous not to acknowledge all the good works that God has completed in my life and my immense gratitude. So as this year ends, I share with you my most memorable moments of 2011 with hopes that you may catch a glimpse of yourself inside my journey because I believe that we are all more alike than not -different paths but all taking the same ride!

I started this year in pre-production on I Do Over and proved that I was ready and able o host my own show. As the Host, Designer and Executive Producer it was far more work than I ever imagined but what a great feeling it was waking up every morning knowing that I was living my dreams!

My husband and I officially formed our production company, Underwood Entertainment and proudly watched the credits roll after each episode of I Do Over knowing that this would be a new chapter in my career!

I have never produced very many weddings each year because it always felt impossible to do it with my limited amount of available time. Well with the help of our wedding team, we were able to design and produce six weddings all with a mere five days of design and planning. It is amazing how much we can do, when life does not provide a way of escape!

After we wrapped I Do Over, I hosted a premiere and advance screening in Atlanta with the help of my friend Stacie Francombe and an amazing group of wedding professionals. The best part was celebrating with my wedding team of Cece Counts, Leo Eley, Riann Valentine, D. Micah Lindsey, Tiffany Pompey and Stephanie Scribner!

WEtv participates in the Essence Music Festival every year but this year I was able to design the space, appear as talent to promote I Do Over and Host a segment called Men of Love where I talked with African American R&B singers and actors about our favorite topic ladies – LOVE!

I carved out some time in my schedule to attend Bridal Market in NYC. It was great getting an advance look of designer interpretations of love and to give my new bride Evelyn Lozada a sneak peek of the newest bridal styles as she started thinking about her wedding day look!

Following a last minute invitation from a friend, I jetted off to Paris for Fashion Week and returned with a fresh perspective and more inspiration than I have been able to find here in the US in the last few years!

I completed over a dozen speaking engagements and proved that I have a voice and given the opportunity I will inspire, uplift and encourage people to step outside of tradition and playing it safe…and live their dreams!

I was re-acquainted with several media outlets that have supported me over the years and thanks to I Do Over, I was introduced to a plethora of new outlets. I also learned just how much power some blogs have in entertainment!

Most importantly, I was able to spend so much time with my family. My husband and daughter Riann (even though she is all grown up) are my strength and place of refuge and the ones that make ‘the struggle’ make sense. Along the way, we adopted Leo Eley and Tiffany Pompey into both my business and our families!

So once again looking back gives me great hope for tomorrow. Hosting a positive reality show that offered hope and second chances was not easy in a climate where viewers vote for “Controversial TV’ with their remotes. This experience showed me that I am even stronger than I knew. The future is bright because I know that if I am willing to put my dreams in the hands of the dream maker then I know He (God) will only continue to do exceedingly and abundantly above all that I can hope or think.

Join the Diann Valentine family and share some of your accomplishments of 2011!

Until next year,

Mike Colon Shares More Than Pure Talent on I Do Over!

admin — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 04:32:03 +0000

I first met Mike Colon when he photographed Usher’s wedding for me a few years ago. After reaching out to the ‘one and only’ Joe Buissink and discovering his unavailability, he told me that Mike was at the top of his recommendation list and that was good enough for me. I confirmed Mike at about 2:30am on the morning of the wedding with instructions to make a 6:30am flight in order to arrive on time. After a hectic morning, he arrived calm, cool, reassuring and ready to go to work. However, my lasting memories are the spirit of the man that showed up to shoot this critically important client. Now with years of friendship under our belt, I am still in awe and impressed with his inner man. I know that his personal conviction and acknowledgement of his enormous responsibility will never allow him to show up in the wrong state of mind. You see, his gifts and his calling outweighs whatever may be in disarray in his private world. Mike Colon wears his heart on his sleeve and shoots from the soul – a quality that is admirable but also scarce. Mike shot 4 of the 6 episodes of I Do Over and blessed our couples with incredible memories. With this year coming to an end, I’ve finally been able to slow down a bit and had a chance to chat with Mike to discuss some of the qualities that can only be found in a person whose life is called for greatness!

This is still my favorite image of Usher and Tameka. The love that Mike captured in this moment cannot be denied!

DV: What was the most memorable experience of working with our couples on I Do Over?

Mike: I loved the idea that I was documenting memories that would wash away all of the disappointment and devastation that each couple experienced with their first wedding. I too believe that everyone deserves a second chance and it was an honor to be placed in the process of redemption that these couples experienced.

The best shots are the ones that couples never see coming!

DV: Reality TV has created so many television opportunities for vendors but I am a firm believer that every opportunity is not a good opportunity. Why did you accept the call from I Do Over?

Mike: When I realized the concept of the show I knew I had to be a part of it! The fact that we would be working to replace ruined wedding memories for couples with new and beautiful memories made me so excited to be shooting these weddings. Not to mention, anything Diann Valentine is involved with is a no-brainer for me!

The love captured in this image shines through all the fun they are enjoying on this Ferris wheel!

DV: There is so much more to creating an artistic photograph than just point, focus and shoot. When I look at your work, I’m convinced that you bring your soul with you on a job. So tell us, what inspires you the most?

Mike: Thank you Diann! I always pour my soul into every opportunity to document a moment in time. I’m inspired by the love that is shared between a bride and groom. It is so lovely to watch two people make the greatest commitment in their lives and I’m humbled and lucky to be chosen to capture it all. When I’m at a wedding, I work hard to focus, clear my head and stay clear of any distractions that may cause me to miss a moment that can never be re-created. I’m so blessed to have such a meaningful career where my life’s work is appreciated and treasured for generations.

This woman’s eyes…says it all!

DV: We saw some pretty devastating disasters while shooting I DO Over. What do you suggest a bride can do to avoid her own photography disaster?

Mike: Hiring an expert photographer who specializes in weddings will significantly decrease the possibility of any photographic disasters. Even more importantly, brides should be certain they are communicating their desires and expressing their expectations, goals, and schedule with their photographer before the wedding day. Every photographer should conduct a pre-wedding interview with the bride and groom to thoroughly discuss everything from lighting and timing of ceremony to which photos are most important to the couple. Photo expectations forced on the couple by their parents could also pose significant problems and create unnecessary stress on the wedding day. Parents should be brought into the conversation during the planning stages if necessary in order to get everyone on the same page. Planning and communicating with your photographer before the wedding day will practically eliminate your chances of any photography pitfalls on your wedding day.

This image shows how much trust they had in Mike Colon!

DV: If you could shoot a photo shoot with 5 people – dead or alive – who would it be and why?

Mike: Easy… my wife and four kids because they are so beautiful and they stop my heart every time I see them! I do photo-shoots with them all the time, but I can never get enough!

Love is expressed in so many simple ways…nothing beats hand holding!

DV: Love has always been my biggest source of inspiration for expressing myself creatively, as a family man – what does love do for you?

Mike: Love is what got me hooked on shooting weddings. I’ve photographed many people, places, and things, but nothing compares to photographing people who are in love. Everything good comes from love. God is love.

Love is simple and this image shows everything that she really wants!

DV: What’s next for Mike Colón?

Mike: After a very busy year, I am most looking forward to celebrating the holidays with my family. Next year brings many new opportunities to educate and share my gifts with our industry through my exclusive workshops, photographing a big celebrity wedding and taking advantage of each new day to be a better photographer, a better professional and a better man!

For more information and to check out some of Mike Colon’s gift, please visit his website at www.mikecolon.com!

So do tell – what is your favorite image that Mike Colon captured? Please join the Diann Valentine family and share it with us all!

Keep spreading the love,

An Imperfect Perfect Heart!

admin — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 06:02:19 +0000

Tracy and Jason Carstensen shared such a precious love story. Since a near death disaster ruined their first wedding, these two knew immediately into their marriage just how important it was to love each other to the fullest with every day that they shared together. Their genuine love for each other made me want to work so much harder to ensure that their ‘Do Over’ was everything they dreamed and so much more. They were passionate and emotional and inspired me to realize that ‘today’ is all we have. I learned so much from them and the greatest lesson was that we all have imperfect hearts but our blessings lie in our ability to find the imperfect perfect heart that loves us just as much as we love them!

Here are a few of my favorite moments from this week’s season finale episode that you may have missed:

Although this was our last week of shooting it was crazy. 12 wardrobe changes, 7 hair changes, tons of voices over plus I had to fit in the premiere of Braxton Family Values…whew!

We gave Tracy and Jason a commemorative invitation from my Pure Dazzle Suite in the Diann Valentine Wedding Stationery Collection!

I just love my wedding day load-in look this week and probably because my daughter Riann Valentine took me shopping and styled me in this vintage Mark Jacobs jacket, American Apparel tights and Gucci boots!

Since I insisted on hosting the wedding and reception on the rooftop at The LA Athletic Club, I had to make sure we had cashmere wraps for all of the ladies as they arrived!

Photo by Gavin Wade

D. Micah Lindsey took such good care of our brides and their families on wedding day!

Photo by Gavin Wade

I just love a confident man…and I was thankful that Jason didn’t need my help to get his swagger back!

Photo by Gavin Wade

I couldn’t wait to present Tracy with this custom brooch bouquet from Fantasy Floral Designs…simply gorgeous!

Photo by Gavin Wade

Tracy Carstensen is so stunning inside and out…and especially in this custom gown from R-Mine Bridal!

Photo by Gavin Wade

…I had to give you one last look at that gorgeous gown from behind!

Photo by Gavin Wade

This imperfect heart was the perfect gate for Tracey to enter into the ceremony!

Photo by Gavin Wade

Tracey and Jason’s ceremony was set with all modern lounge furnishings from Rriveworks!

Photo by Gavin Wade

My personal family friend Pastor Lafayette Dorsey conducted a beautiful Christian ceremony!

Photo by Gavin Wade

I cried the most during Tracy and Jason’s ceremony…I guess I couldn’t stop thinking about their disaster and how she thought she had lost him. I’m so glad I’m not jaded from L-O-V-E!

Photo by Gavin Wade

I love how Jason rested his head on Tracy’s lap after the ceremony…right where it belongs!

Photo by Gavin Wade

We used these custom bars from Rrivreworks to separate the ceremony from the reception so we could create two reveals!

Dodie Sy from Brassavola’s created so many eclectic floral centerpieces all over the rooftop using thousands of flowers from our friends at 1-800-FLOWERS!

Photo by Gavin Wade

A gorgeous guest dining table on the rooftop!

Photo by Gavin Wade

The L-O-V-E table turned into the crepe station for Tracy and Jason’s reception!

Photo by Gavin Wade

We also set-up a station for guests to complete ‘Rainy Day’ cards from the Pure Dazzle suite in the Diann Valentine Wedding Stationery Collection!

After completing the ‘Rainy Day’ cards, guests placed them in this silver engraved keepsake box for Tracy and Jason to take home!

Photo by Gavin Wade

I was so happy that my daughter Riann Valentine’s friend Lexy Panterra was able to sing for Tracy and Jason’s first dance!

Photo by Gavin Wade

The ceremony platform was moved and flipped into the cake platform adorned with a custom tablecloth from Wildflower Linens for the reception!

Photo by Gavin Wade

Tracy and Jason’s sweetheart table was intimated placed underneath a black and white canopy from Rrivreworks!

Photo by Gavin Wade

We used this custom metallic grape dance floor from Barker Dance Floors!

Photo by Gavin Wade

One overall look of the Carstensen’s rooftop wedding reception that was lit to perfection by Amber Event Production!

Photo by Gavin Wade

The ‘I Do Over’ crew just after our Executive Producer Krysia Plonka yelled “That’s a wrap”!

My production company Underwood Entertainment was one of the producers of I Do Over and I was so proud every week watching the credits roll!

This has been a whirlwind of a ride and I am finally at a place in my life where I can say that I truly enjoyed every minute of it. Thank you all for joining me as I embarked in the latest chapter of the ‘Diann Valentine saga. I use to think that success was some sought after goal or a destination that I would reach after years and years of hard work and struggle. My maturity has taught me that success can only be found in the journey…and what a journey it has been!

…to be continued!

So I’m dying to know- what was your favorite part of Season I of I Do Over? Please join the Diann Valentine family and share it with us all!

God bless you and keep spreading the love,

Rrivreworks Aides in An Amazing Transformation on I Do Over!

admin — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 06:46:17 +0000

Rrivre Davies and I have been friends and colleagues for years. We have worked hand in hand on events both in Southern California and around the world. One of the qualities that keeps me coming back – other than his expansive inventory of décor and furnishings is his attitude. He is pleasant, gracious, humble and a joy to work with. In our industry, talent seems to lead the reputation of the leaders in our industry but I prefer to allow the inner man to lead my choice in collaborations and Rrivre remains at the top of my list. For the Carstensen’s episode, I needed lots of great, clean, modern furnishings as well as a special element that would help to remind them of the special heart that brought them together and I knew that only Rrive had just what I needed. With the Carstensen’s episode airing this Sunday night, I sat down with Rrivre to dig a little deeper and to give you all a glimpse of the man behind some of the biggest Hollywood mega-weddings!

...meet Rrivre Davies!

DV: What was your most memorable experience of working on I Do Over?

Rrivre: I got to see Diann without makeup! She is just as stunning first thing in the morning as she is after she is all dolled up.

DV: Reality TV has created so many opportunities for vendors and you have deservedly so become the ‘go to guy’ for the Kardashian family but I am a firm believer that every opportunity is not a good opportunity. Why did you accept the call from I Do Over?

Rrivre: For me, it didn’t matter that this particular event was for TV. Having collaborated with you for years, I knew the experience would be the same loving creative process with the ultimate goal of crafting a wedding that would overwhelm the Bride with joy, beauty, and memories of a magical celebration of their love. Unlike the terrifying experience that overtook first wedding, these two were so deserving of another chance at the perfect celebration. Knowing that, how could I have said “no” to you?

Photo by Dan Scott

DV: I am known to push my vendors hard to dig deeper for another level of creative expression and your custom fabricated work shows that you believe the same thing. Where do you find your inspiration for newly fabricated items in your inventory?

Rrivre: There is always a battle between form and function. I consciously work to remove myself from my own cultural confines and explore the “what ifs” of design, that is, how can I amalgamate my imagination with an established aesthetic to build something new. I enjoy exploring architecture from every era, and the development of world cultures. Inspiration comes to me in many forms: old movies, history books, my own travels throughout the world. With nearly unlimited options in technique and materials for construction of custom furnishings there are today, it really helps to accelerate the process. We can bring an idea to life in the blink of an eye. For example, the cocktail hour furnishings we fabricated for Kim Kardashian’s wedding came from an early 20th century chair I found at a swap meet – we were able to capture the spirit of that chair and create an entire collection of French garden seating and tables in under a week.

Photo by Michael Simon

DV: We saw some pretty devastating disasters on I Do Over. What tips do you have for brides that can help them avoid their own design disasters?

Rrivre: Once you have selected a location, set a realistic budget for the size of the space that needs decor. If the budget leans more on the small side, avoid trying to transform the space into a particular theme. Incorporate your favorite colors that do not fight the surroundings. For inspiration, bridal magazines, websites and TV shows are great resources, but so are photos from a recent vacation, movies, music – anything that brings you happiness can be translated into a cohesive look. (Well, almost anything) If you can, incorporate a lounge area near the dance floor or the bar so that as the evening wears on and the party gets smaller, your guests will have a place to congregate. Such furniture can be rented from a shop like Rrivre Works or borrowed from the hotel lobby! Just, be sure to ask first. Most importantly, if you plan to decorate your wedding on your own, enlist a team to help you in the days leading up to the celebration. You won’t have time to make flower arrangements on your special day, so it’s important to feel that you are in good hands and you can trust your team of designers, planners, florists, caterers etc. Although they cannot prevent a tropical storm or medical emergency, your team can help you avoid disasters that are preventable, and might actually help salvage such events from total meltdown. The more homework you and your team do in advance such as developing a timeline and establishing some contingencies in the event of bad weather, the more you will be able to relax. Your big day will be filled with excited and lots of emotion but you will be at ease knowing you have the support you need to keep the unforeseen surprises to a minimum.

Photo by J. Parker

DV: My natural aesthetic has always been influenced by Tom Ford because I love how he infuses sexy undertones in everything that he does. Who is your design muse?

Rrivre: I would have to credit all of the nameless and unknown designers that came before me. Not one person specifically, but all of the innovators and creators in our history that made our world such an amazing place full of varied cultures and styles, they blow my mind. Oh yeah, and Mom who has an amazing sense of style and design.

Photo by Marianne Lozano

DV: If you could design a party for any 5 women – dead or alive – who would they be and why?

My mother, of course, because she deserves it and has taught me so much….. and has worked many of my events – for free!
Better Midler, because she is so original, so real, so free.
Mother Teresa, because… who wouldn’t want to see a Saint a little tipsy? No seriously, she gave so much to so many and it would be great to celebrate her.
Coretta Scott King, because she was a great woman behind her great man and in her own right. I would imagine she would be an amazing conversationalist and full of love.
Queen Victoria! Talk about a woman’s libber who changed the world. I just know she would be fascinating and INTENSE.

Photo by Aaron Delesie

DV: What’s next for Rrivre Works?

Rrivre: We are opening a photo studio in conjunction with my other company, American Gentleman Magazine. There are a plethora of great studios in Los Angeles, but none with a furniture and prop house attached! We are also hard at work on a complete overhaul of our website, completing our expansion of our warehouse to 45,000 sq. ft. and looking into opening offices in other American cities. And there are some things I cannot talk about just yet, so you’ll have to stay tuned.

For more information on Rrivreworks or to have a glimpse at some of their amazing inventory and environments, click here!

And of course, don’t forget to tune into the season finale of I Do Over on Sunday, December 18^th at 10E|9C on WEtv to see how Rrivre helps us transform a space that offers one of the best views in all of Los Angeles!

So do tell – what is your favorite piece in the Rrivreworks inventory? Please join the Diann Valentine family and share it with us all!

Keep spreading the love,

I Like It Hot!

admin — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 04:42:54 +0000

The fire that ruined the Pepple’s first wedding was such a devastating and unforeseen disaster. How do you prepare for a fire in the building? This disaster even had me with a loss of words – a rare moment of course! Jennifer and Ian Pepple were a very quiet and shy couple who wanted nothing to do with fire again. However, my design plan was to re-introduce fire in a way that would help them establish some beautiful and artful memories that they could be proud of while embracing the beauty of fire. Also, since Jennifer and Ian met in an art gallery, I wanted to create as many artistic design elements that would pay homage to the encounter that brought them together. Flowers and textiles were my two primary elements that would bring this design approach to life. And it also helped that we found this gorgeous, eclectic warehouse space in Downtown LA that allowed me to turn it into an art gallery.

Here are a few of my favorite moments from this week’s episode that you may have missed:

Surprise day was always so much fun. Leo Eley & Autumn Clark kept me together while our Supervising Producer Roberta Christensen kept us all laughing!

No one knew how quickly I traded in my stilettos for these deliciously comfortable Uggs!

This flaming cocktail that our Tres LA bartender put together for our tasting almost took me out! I’m a lightweight and need to stick to champagne only!

Photo by Mike Colon

I presented Jennifer and Ian with a commemorative invitation from the Lingering Love Suite in the Diann Valentine Wedding Stationery Collection!

To mix things up, we used the complementing place cards as name plates for the art that was hung throughout their art gallery reception also from the Lingering Love Suite in the

Diann Valentine Wedding Stationery Collection!

Seeing that big smile on my daughter Riann Valentine’s face on set on wedding day and getting a big hug from her always eased my stress just a bit!

Jennifer Pepple chose the cutest Amsale gown that we altered a bit to fit her style and personality!

Photo by Mike Colon

Tom Fagan from Live Event Artist amazed me how he started capturing the setting of the wedding long before things got underway!

I encouraged Celebrations Expert Jackie Lacey to push the envelope with the flowers and create a coffee table centerpiece that was set inside of a picture frame!

We found so many eclectic and shabby chic furnishings from Found Vintage that worked perfectly with our art gallery setting!

Another gorgeous vignette with furnishings from Found Vintage and some of the floral art from Jackie Lacey – our Celebrations.com Expert!

Framed florals and textiles from Wildflower Linens set the mood for the Pepple’s Art Gallery wedding!

Photo by Mike Colon

A dining table at the Pepple Reception!

Photo by Mike Colon

Leo Eley’s ‘Babe in Toyland’!

Fire Groove brought the heat I needed!

Photo by Mike Colon

A blue and green color palette was followed throughout our art gallery reception!

Hansen’s Cakes created this wedding cake that resembled a piece of art while my Art Director, TJ Paradise framed it and placed it atop this gorgeous pedestal!

Photo by Mike Colon

I just love this shot of a dapper Ian Pepple just before the ceremony!

Photo by Mike Colon

The first dance is still my favorite moment of every wedding reception!

Photo by Mike Colon

One more shot of the gorgeous ‘Art Gallery’ that my team of TJ Paradise, Paula Bond, Tiffany Pompey, Cece Counts, D. Micah Lindsey and Stephanie Scribner helped me bring to life. Love you guys!

Photo by Mike Colon

Jim McCann of 1-800-FLOWERS & Celebrations.com & I always made time for a little fun!

Photo by Mike Colon

And of course, don’t forget to tune in next Sunday for the season finale of I Do Over at 10E |9C on WEtv and one more reason why should never stop believing in second chances!

So I’m dying to know- what did you think of my art gallery wedding and reception? Please join the Diann Valentine family and share it with us all!

Keep spreading the love,

Don’t Underestimate the Power of Mother Nature!

admin — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 05:32:37 +0000

The Tumbagas made a tough gamble on bad weather that cost them the perfect celebration for their wedding. After surprising them, I set out to help Jung re-create her wedding celebration while abandoning some of the traditions she held onto for her first wedding. Jung admitted that she did not love her wedding gown, was underwhelmed by her nautical décor and missed the favored candy table that she hoped to enjoy. Yet still, Jung holds on tight with her type-A personality and does not relinquish decision making authority too easy. After an uncertain week of deciding whether or not to trust my vision, Jung and Victor were in awe of their I Do Over! From the baby blue wedding gown to the ‘Candy Land’ lounge, I showed her how to distinctively interpret her love story on her own terms. However, I hope that they learned that you can never underestimate the power of Mother Nature!

Here are a few of my favorite moments from this week’s episode that you may have missed:

One of the best things about shooting I Do Over, was working with a production team of so many strong, powerful women in Hollywood!

Eva Franco did me so right this week. I had to give you another look!

Eddie Zaratsian created the most gorgeous floral pieces using thousands of flowers from our friends at 1-800-FLOWERS!

The final table design featured this new amazing fabric from Wildflower Linen and finished them with menus and place cards from the Diann Valentine Wedding Stationery Collection!

Photo by Mike Colon

Jung Tumbaga finally admitted that I knew her style a little better than she did with this custom baby blue wedding gown from R-Mine Bridal!

Photo by Mike Colon

I am still in awe at this bridal bouquet that Eddie Zaratsian of Tic-Tock Couture Florals delivered!

Photo by Mike Colon

R-Mine Bridal even dressed me in a custom gown for The Tumbagas wedding!

Photo by Mike Colon

As the night fell, Mike Colon captured this gorgeous shot of the fountain that was the centerpiece of The Tumbagas reception!

Photo by Mike Colon

…one more shot of that gorgeous fountain!

Photo by Mike Colon

The Candyland Lounge was my ‘design baby’ but I never could have brought it to life without the help and support of Celebrations.com and 1-800-FLOWERS!

Photo by Mike Colon

I love that The Tumbagas are a ‘real-life’ Modern Family!

Photo by Mike Colon

The Tumbagas finally enjoyed the first dance they missed!

Photo by Mike Colon!

And of course, don’t forget to tune in next Sunday for another episode of I Do Over at 10E |9C on WEtv for one more reason why should never stop believing in second chances!

So I’m dying to know- what did you think of my Candyland Lounge? Please join the Diann Valentine family and share it with us all!

Keep spreading the love,

Tic-Tock Couture Florals Brings More than Just Gorgeous Florals to I Do Over!

admin — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 03:28:57 +0000

Eddie Zaratsian of Tic-Tock Couture Florals and I have been friends and colleagues for many years collaborating and debating design in his gorgeous design studio. His vast experience and worldly viewpoint brings an incredible perspective to the design world. Furthermore, his sense of humor and overtly confident nature is always an enjoyable mix with mine. Eddie and his team worked their magic and transformed flowers into works of art for The Tumbagas, which was our toughest episode. It was the first episode of the season and lets just say – we still had a few kinks to work-out. With the Tumbagas episode airing this Sunday, I wanted to share my recent conversation with Eddie so that you will watch this week’s episode and fall in love him just as much as I do!

DV: What was your most memorable experience of working on the first episode ever taped of I Do Over?

Eddie: I would have to say YOU! You inspire me in so many ways, always pushing my creative buttons and then setting me free to create. You’re such a positive force and that always brings out the best in me. I also love the energy when a new production of a TV show is being created for the first time. I was super excited for you because you’re such a good friend and I just knew from previous experiences with you what a great collaboration that was going to unfold!

Diann Valentine and Eddie Zaratsian at Engage 11!

DV: Reality TV has created so many opportunities for great artists like yourself – but I’m a firm believer that every opportunity is not a good opportunity. Why did you accept the call from I Do Over?

Eddie: First of all I love the concept of the show! This angle on weddings has never been created for TV in the wedding industry. When you initially called to share the news that you would be hosting this new show, I was so excited for you! You are magical and I was committed to supporting you in any possible way and I was honored to be working on an episode with you. My personal experience with Reality TV has been very positive, so I went into this feeling good. WEtv is so supportive of the wedding industry and I really appreciate that and wanted to show my support for them as well.

DV: I am known to push my vendors hard to dig deeper for another level of creative expression and we experienced that during our episode. Needless to say, the florals for the Tumbaga’s episode far exceeded my expectations. What was your favorite floral element of that episode?

Eddie: You know I am just like you, pushing the envelope as a designer is what I do. The bridal bouquet was my favorite floral element of the Tumbagas episode. The bouquet consisted of Cymbidium Orchids that we deconstructed and then composed one big orchid bouquet with the orchid petals all thrown around with mini pearls grouped in the center. We used thousands of roses, leaves, and different groupings of flowers in yellow and silver in various heights. It was a fresh and different color combination with loads of surprising elements. I loved the original artistic point of view that we conveyed.

A sneak peek of our bride's bouquet was all that I envisioned and more!

DV: We saw some pretty devastating disasters on I Do Over. What tips do you have for brides that can help them avoid their own floral disasters?

Eddie: Find a floral designer with passion and experience. Trust your vendors. Listen to their suggestions and guidance and most importantly, try not to micro-manage them. Flowers are nature’s gift to us; let them be in their natural state.

DV: My natural design aesthetic has always been influenced by Tom Ford because I love how he infuses sensuality in everything that he creates. Who is your design muse?

Eddie: I love Tom Ford, and I also love Dolce and Gabbana. Their designs are feminine and masculine concurrently. They’re experts at combining hard and soft elements that take you by surprise. I love that in a design. Dolce and Gabbana is all about bringing details together in the best possible way and I strive to infuse a similar intent with my designs as well.

Eddie Zaratsian at work!

DV: If you could design a signature floral piece for any 5 women – dead or alive – who would they be and why?

This one is challenging to answer, so I’m going to do my best.

I dream of designing for Jackie Kennedy because I think she would have brought out the sophisticated and elegant designs in me.
Elizabeth Taylor because I would have looked to her exquisite jewelry collection as inspiration.
Lady Gaga for a personal event; I’m certain she would require that I comprehend and interpret flowers on a distinctively creative level.
Oprah – she exudes grandeur with everything she does.
I think the biggest design challenge of all would be to create an arrangement for Madonna. One that she would fall in love with that contained hydrangeas! I’m up for the challenge!

DV: What’s next for Tic-Tock Couture Floral? Well the real question should be what is next for Eddie Zaratsian, (?????)

Eddie: My new floral boutique in Restoration Hardware on Beverly Boulevard has introduced a new type of consumer business that’s been wonderful. It’s such a joy to have that spontaneous interaction and create something beautiful and impulsive for people that will enjoy in their homes or give it to someone special.

Also, I’ve been working on a lot of movie premieres lately and my book will be released in early 2012, so I have so many new and expanding ventures to be excited about!

Eddie Zaratsian's Coral Motif Inspiration Board

For more information on Tic-Tock Couture Floral or to have a glimpse at some of their amazing creations, click here!

And of course, don’t forget to tune into the Tumbagas episode of I Do Over on Sunday, December 4^th at 10pm on WEtv to see all of the magnificent pieces that Eddie and his team brought to life!

So do tell – what do you look for most in a floral designer? Please join the Diann Valentine family and share it with us all!

Keep spreading the love,

From One Brown Girl to Another!

admin — Tue, 29 Nov 2011 19:09:09 +0000

Thankfully, life has been so busy with brides, events, the premiere of I Do Over, new ventures, new explorations and making time to take care of my family. However, earlier this year I stopped, called and introduced myself to Jacqueline Nwobu, the publisher of Munaluchi Bride after stumbling upon the gorgeous but obviously different cover that featured actress La La Anthony. As another brown girl in the wedding industry, I felt compelled to simply call and say hello because we needed to know each other. I shared my excitement for her and how much pride I felt knowing that she was leading her own charge to change our industry for the better – level out the playing fields just a bit in terms of bridal publications. We instantly bonded and I shared that I was not in search of anything but offered a helpful hand along her journey. If there was anything I could do, I would always make myself available to her. Before I could make good on my promise, she surprised me by offering the following feature to introduce Diann Valentine and I Do Over to her readers.

Maturity has taught me that whatever we put out into the world – the same energy will come back to us…guaranteed! Spread a little love because it is definitely contagious! For more information on Munaluchi Bride, please visit www.munaluchibridal.com.

My life has not been easy nor my journey smooth, but I know that if I simply continue to walk in my truth of love, faith and excellence – God will do the rest!

Keep spreading the love,

A Bad Break is Cause For An I Do Over!

admin — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 22:16:08 +0000

Lindsy Jennings is one of the happiest and fantastically optimistic women I have ever had the pleasure of working with. Despite a dreadful fall that broke her leg in three places and left her hobbling down the aisle on crutches on her wedding day, she still managed to keep the gigantic smile on her face. Throughout our time together, she consistently focused on what lied before her and in fact was quite uncomfortable conveying any of the disastrous memories from her first wedding. She was so in tune with every moment – surprise after surprise and present to the magic that was happening around her. You see, I learned a great lesson from Lindsy about our reaction to disappointments in life. Sure she was saddened with the outcome of her first wedding but I truly believe that her willingness to leave those memories ‘behind the line’ allowed her to fully enjoy each experience of the new wedding that we were feverishly designing and executing on her behalf. She wasn’t worried about ‘looking good’, ‘feeling embarrassed’ or being paranoid about us making a mockery of her wedding. In essence – Lindsy simply trusted the process and is likely the one bride that enjoyed her ‘do-over’ the most this season. So as the credits rolled last night, I hope that you shared my sentiments knowing that this woman truly deserved her I Do Over!

Here are a few of my favorite moments from this week’s episode that you may have missed:

Behind the scenes on surprise day getting direction from our Executive Producer, Supervising Producer and Director!

Leo Eley deserved a big hug after greasing up my legs for this scene at the dance studio!

It’s always all about the shoes especially when they are Christian Louboutin Spiked Slingbacks…thunder things included!

Lindsy and Reid’s commemorative invite from the Artistic Waves Suite in the Diann Valentine Wedding Stationery Collection!

Of course Lindsy chose style over comfort with these Giuseppe Zanotti stunners that my girl Jamie Steele brought over!

Photo by Gavin & Erin Wade

The girls loved getting glam by our girls from Hair Comes The Bride!

Photo by Gavin & Erin Wade

I loved this feather hairpiece I surprised Lindsy with after she chose her dream dress!

Photo by Gavin & Erin Wade

Six harpists lined the fountain at the Hyatt Huntington Beach with gorgeous Grecian costumes and hair and make-up all by our I Do Over Entertainment Guru Cece Counts!

Photo by Gavin & Erin Wade

Lindsy finally got her perfect walk down the aisle on the custom aisle runner that my good friend Peque hand-painted with a love letter from Reid!

Photo by Gavin & Erin Wade

I think Reid finally got his ‘swagger’ back!

Photo by Gavin & Erin Wade

Each guest chair at the ceremony was adorned by these custom chair covers from Wildflower Linen. I still can’t believe I talked Young into them with such short notice!

Photo by Gavin & Erin Wade

The center aisle was flanked with drop-dead gorgeous flowers and pedestals from Lifetime Weddings & Events!

Photo by Gavin & Erin Wade

I love how Erin captured this shot of Gavin highly focused on getting the perfect shot himself!

Photo by Erin Wade

The happy couple right after the ceremony with Lindsy still wearing the Swarovski crystal cuff bouquet that I was able to get Lifetime Weddings & Events to push the envelope on and give me something extraordinary!

Photo by Gavin & Erin Wade

Lindsy’s ‘Aha’ moment after seeing the reception for the first time!

Photo by Gavin & Erin Wade

The stunning reception tables!

Photo by Gavin & Erin Wade

A special place card awaited Lindsy’s Mom also from the Artistic Waves Suite in the Diann Valentine Wedding Stationery Collection!

Photo by Gavin & Erin Wade

An amazing, lush centerpiece from Lifetime Weddings & Events!

Photo by Gavin & Erin Wade

The final jellyfish chandeliers suspended over the delicious Hansen’s Cake and the custom ostrich feather tablecloth from Wildflower Linens engulfed in thousands of rose petals and lush hydrangeas from 1-800-FLOWERS that Lifetime Weddings & Events used was the centerpiece of my design!

Photo by Gavin & Erin Wade

Alternate tables featured a chair back place card with starfish that were hand-painted by our wedding team and printed on the Artistic Waves Suite in the Diann Valentine Wedding Stationery Collection!

Photo by Gavin & Erin Wade

If there is going to be a ‘hottie’ – she must be seated next to a ‘handsome’!

Photo by Gavin & Erin Wade

Another gorgeous centerpiece using some of the thousands of flowers we received from our friends at 1-800-FLOWERS!

Photo by Gavin & Erin Wade

Our I Do Over Design Coordinator Tiffany Pompey created this clever napkin fold to perfectly showcase the Artistic Waves menu card!

Photo by Gavin & Erin Wade

Lindsy was also able to get the butterflies she wanted thanks to the hard work from the folks at Swank Audio Visuals!

Photo by Gavin & Erin Wade

We used some great pieces from Cort Event Furnishings to set up a lounge directly behind Lindsy & Reid’s sweetheart table!

Photo by Gavin & Erin Wade

One more shot of Lindsy’s underwater, beachy, chic, Disney fairytale reception! How did we do?

Photo by Gavin & Erin Wade

Jim McCann of Celebrations.com and 1-800-FLOWERS.com – our friend who always delivers one last surprise when our couples think it couldn’t possibly get any better!

Photo by Gavin & Erin Wade

…and that’s a wrap on the host!

Photo by Gavin & Erin Wade

And of course, don’t forget to tune in next Sunday for another episode of I Do Over at 10E |9C on WEtv for one more reason why should never stop believing in second chances!

So do tell – what was your favorite moment from this episode? Please join the Diann Valentine family and share it with us all!

Keep spreading the love,