Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Gardens Fall 2018 Events

Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Gardens, a proud Smithsonian affiliate, offers visitors of all ages the opportunity to experience the performing arts, visual arts, history, and more. With the fall season right around the corner, Snug Harbor has the ideal family friendly events for you. Some new and exciting events to keep track of include the Breakfast of Champignon(s), Family Emergency Preparedness Festival, and more!

Kevin Norton’s Breakfast of Champignon(s)

On September 20th, Kevin Norton’s Breakfast of Champignon(s) is an ensemble that explores the borderlands of contemporary chamber music, modern jazz and free improvisation.  All the members of the ensemble can claim roots in these various sub-genres of music, while also claiming to be unique, impressive, and sincere contributors on their respective instruments.

STATEN ISLAND CHILDREN’S MUSEUM: Annual Family Emergency Preparedness Festival

Meet emergency responders & check out their vehicles and equipment. Meet “Ready Girl” and receive a free collector’s edition comic book and other giveaways, while supplies last. *Please note the Museum does not open until Noon on this festival day.

 

We the People: Black Indians

We the People: Black Indians in America will utilize Fern Metcalf’s visual storytelling to depict what life is like for black Indians living in the present day United States, while reflecting on their history. Photography will be used to show Mardi Gras Indians and black Indians in their suits, ceremonial dress, and in their everyday lives as Americans. Poems will serve to add to the story line of who they are presently and provide historical context.

“Not-So-Scary” Halloween Celebration

Our “Not-So-Scary” Halloween celebration! Live entertainment, light dinner, candy, spooky crafts, and of course our famous haunted house! Reservations are required.

Putting Your Garden to Bed (NYC Compost Project)

Learn how compost, mulch and cover crops can help keep soil protected from the elements.

The events you can attend are endless. Visit http://snug-harbor.org/ to see all of the other events that are constantly going on at Snug Harbor. No matter which event you choose to attend, your experience is sure to be nothing short of memorable.

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Couples Tribute: Kevin and Tommy

Kevin and Tommy’s Broadway themed wedding at Celebrate Snug Harbor was a very theatrical and magical day. Given that Kevin and Tommy live close by to Snug Harbor, they decided to tour our venue and instantly fell in love with the architectural charm and the stunning visuals all over the property.

However, the real compelling element for them once they arrived at Snug harbor was seeing that there was a Music Hall on property.  Kevin and Tommy are theater buffs and they knew they wanted to incorporate theatrical elements into their big day.  They have seen many shows over the years and toyed with the idea of incorporating theatrical elements into their wedding.  Seeing the Music Hall when they arrived at Snug Harbor was the icing on the cake.

And really, what’s more theatrical than getting married on the stage of the second oldest theater in the five boroughs? It was a smash hit in their eyes!

Since Kevin and Tommy had their ceremony on stage in the Music Hall, there wasn’t a need for a ton of decor, and the decor for this wedding inspiration was simple and elegant.

The couple’s creative photographer, Paul Valisiades of Paul V Photography made great use of the grounds on this rainy May day.  He caught these two candidly Singing in the Rain as well as in posed images throughout the grounds of Snug Harbor.

They showed their love of theater wherever possible. Their reception program was a faux Playbill for their “show,” which they named Say Yes to the Tress.  Kevin and Tommy incorporated this through to their reception that took place in The Upper Great Hall.

Each table number was also a mocked-up Playbill. The color scheme was wisteria and gray. The floral design team at Lace + Blooms also doubled as Kevin and Tommy’s event planning support.

Their reception kicked off with the two grooms walking in to “Brave” by Sara Bareilles and continuing into their first dance “The Reason” by Celine Dion.

The real dance party started when their DJ played “It’s Raining Men” by the Weather Girls.

The music rocked all night with a packed dance floor and these two sure had a blast on their wedding night.  Every detail of Kevin and Tommy’s wedding was exceptionally and thoughtfully crafted by the couple and their planners.

Kevin and Tommy’s wedding sure was a smash hit!

When asked what advice they would like to share with other couples planning their big day Kevin and Tommy stated:

“Plan the wedding that you want, and that most authentically represents who you are as a couple. Everyone will have an opinion along the way, but yours is the one that counts, so go with your gut.”

Thank you, Kevin and Tommy, for inviting us to share these marvelous wedding moments, and Paul V Photography for these gorgeous photographs.

 

 

Wedding Vendors

Florals/Centerpieces/Design: Lace + Blooms

Photography: Paul V Photography

DJ: Sound Explosion

Grooms Tuxes: Acustom Apparel

Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Gardens August 2018 Events

Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Gardens, a proud Smithsonian affiliate, offers visitors of all ages the opportunity to experience the performing arts, visual arts, history, and more. If you’re looking to have family friendly and noteworthy experiences this August, Snug Harbor has the ideal family friendly events for you. Some new and exciting events to keep track of include the Staten Island Children’s Museum, Horticulture Walks, and more!

Art of the 5: Revisiting Staten Island

Art of the 5: Revisiting Staten Island presents over 50 works of art by eleven artists who represent a mix of nationalities, genders, and varying degrees of fame and recognition. The participating artists are Alfredo Arcia, Irma Bohorquez-Geisler, Robert Bunkin, Susan Grabel, Lorenzo Hail, Helen Levin, David Jacobsen Loncle, Craig Manister, Bill Murphy, and Stephanie Pierce. Organized by guest curator Debra Vanderburg Spencer, this exhibition encompasses each artist’s unique individual practice. Available all month long!

STATEN ISLAND CHILDREN’S MUSEUM: CON EDISON SECOND SATURDAY SCIENCE: ASTRONOMY FOR BEGINNERS

Create your own constellation viewers using everyday materials to gaze at the night sky. Limited to 25 attendees per session. First session is August 11th!

SPOTLIGHT CHILDREN’S THEATRE PRESENTS: MARY POPPINS, JR.

Your favorite “practically perfect” nanny takes center stage in this “supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” Broadway adventure based on the classic Disney film! Mary Poppins, JR is an enchanting mixture of irresistible story, unforgettable songs & exciting dance numbers! A “spoonful of sugar” awaits the entire family with SPOTLIGHT CHILDREN’S THEATRE’s latest production! Two showings on August 11th of 3PM & 7PM!

Horticulture Tour: Tropical Borders Tour

Rediscover Snug Harbor on one of our summer tours!  On four different Horticulture Tours from June – September, you’ll see how Snug Harbor’s stunning and unique gardens lend beauty to every season.  Learn more than you ever thought possible with these deep dives into our most fascinating flora and foliage.

JOAN CADDELL AND THE MIDNIGHT CHOIR: SNUG HARBOR 2018 SUMMER CONCERT SERIES PRESENTED BY RCSF

Kick back with a blanket or a beach chair for our FREE summer concerts!  With the generous support of the Richmond County Savings Foundation, you’ll get to groove to tunes from your favorite local bands with your friends and family—plus play games, eat delicious food, enjoy a beer and wine tasting from Flagship Brewery and Honor Wines, and more.

The events you can attend are endless. Visit http://snug-harbor.org/ to see all of the other events that are constantly going on at Snug Harbor. No matter which event you choose to attend, your experience is sure to be nothing short of memorable.

Couples Tribute – Dina and Mike

Dina and Mike’s Fall wedding at Celebrate Snug Harbor was elegant and crafted to compliment the couples individual style. Dina and Mike immediately fell in love with the aesthetic of the Great Hall.

Lina Kreisberg, Founder of Lina Kreisberg Wedding Planning and Event Design helped bring the couple’s vision to life with a rich-toned color palette.  Sunflower floral arrangements created by Lydia Andrien of Wyld BK. Dina and Mike fully embraced a formal look and feel while keeping their wedding down-to-Earth. They even managed to show off their inner love for the show “Doctor Who” lite, with special touches that were based in the series.

The natural charm and astonishing outdoor views from the windows in the Upper Great Hall was the perfect ceremony setting to officiate their union.

One of the most significant DIY elements of the wedding was the handmade Chuppah Mike built for the couple to exchange their vows under.

The couple’s creative photographer, Igor Khodzinskiy of Antigo Studio made great use of the grounds on this crisp, sunny Fall day, snapping photos of the couple in candid moments as well as posed images throughout the grounds of Snug Harbor.

The evening continued with a dinner reception in The Upper Great Hall.  The oversized windows, barrel ceiling and historic charm of the space was a great compliment to their reception that was equal parts rustic and elegant without losing any of the natural charm of the venue.

Dina and Mike shared their first dance to a very special song called “Moonlight Serenade” by the Glenn Miller Orchestra. It’s a song from a very special episode of “Doctor Who” and fit perfectly into their wedding theme.

Every detail was exceptionally and thoughtfully crafted by the couple and their planner Lisa.

A big thank you to their photographer Igor Khodzinskiy of Antigo Studio who captured it all beautifully!

 

Wedding Vendors

Bridal gown and Bridesmaids dresses – Jenny Yoo https://www.jennyyoo.com/

Cake –  Palermo Bakery – https://palermobakery.com/

Ceremony and cocktail music was provided by Zisl Slepovitch of Litvakus klezmer group.

DJ Gary – Craig Scott Events – http://craigscott.com/?bands=djs

Florals – Lydia Andrien of Wyld BK – https://wyld.nyc/

Photographer was Igor Khodzinskiy of Antigo Studio http://www.antigostudio.com/

Wedding Planner/Day of Coordinator- Lina Kreisberg Wedding Planning and Event Design- http://www.linakreisberg.com/

 

 

 

 

 

Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Gardens July 2018 Events

Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Gardens, a proud Smithsonian affiliate, offers visitors of all ages the opportunity to experience the performing arts, visual arts, history, and more. If you’re looking to have family friendly and noteworthy experiences this July, Snug Harbor has the ideal family friendly events for you. Some new and exciting events to keep track of include the Staten Island Children’s Museum, Horticulture Walks, and more!

Staten Island Children’s Museum: ConEdison Second Saturday Science Solar Speedway:

Coming up in July, race solar cars to mark the return of electric car Formula-E Racing in NYC! Limited to 25 attendees per session.

Heritage Farm Tour:

Rediscover Snug Harbor on one of our summer tours! From June – September, you can learn all about Snug Harbor’s Heritage Farm, a better-than-organic 2.5 acre sustainable urban farm, now in its seventh growing season. Go behind the scenes at the farm with four different tour options as the seasons change.

Letter Writing for Members of the Military:

Also for the month of July, join the Staten Island Children’s Museum in this special letter writing workshop as they create cards to mail to active members of our military overseas.

 

Summer Nights Art of Cocktails!

Guests 21 and over are invited to craft their own cocktails with the expert guidance of Staten Island’s Best Bartender, Danny Ippolito, owner of Bin 5 in Rosebank. Get your staycation on as we explore Ippolito’s carefully curated menu of artisan cocktails while Museum Archivist Gabriella Leone presents photographs and stories from the collection showcasing Staten Island’s unique history as a popular retreat destination during the turn of the 20th century up through midcentury. Each of the three featured drinks will be fashioned out of fresh ingredients (all provided) and skillfully crafted by Ippolito while guests observe and then make their own. Registration recommended.

Public Work’s Shakespeare in the Park:

On July 29th and August 14th for Twelfth Night, a limited number of vouchers for that night’s performance will be distributed at Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden on the front porch of Cottage D located on Cottage Road on the grounds of Snug Harbor. Ticket vouchers will be distributed beginning at 12pm (noon) while supplies last, or 2pm, whichever occurs first. Borough distribution dates vary, so be sure to check the borough distribution calendar. Each person (age 5+) may receive up to two (2) tickets, while supplies last.

The events you can attend are endless. Visit http://snug-harbor.org/ to see all of the other events that are constantly going on at Snug Harbor. No matter which event you choose to attend, your experience is sure to be nothing short of memorable.

Couples Tribute – Allyson and Andrew

Long before their union on November 3, 2017, Allyson and Andrew knew that Celebrate Snug Harbor would be the only location to offer them the historical eloquence and lush nature views they were looking to share with guests on their wedding day.

They had spent much time in this enchanted environment, walking with their dogs among the well-manicured grounds and romantic structures. The harmonious balance of rich antiquity, sophistication, natural charm, and wondrous outdoor views made this more than just a venue; it was a bewitching, picturesque echo of all things past, a perfect fit for the next chapter of their love story to begin.

Allyson was a vision of timeless beauty in her long-sleeve Castle Couture Bridal gown, articulated by a cascading bouquet of white florals gently mixed with bold hues of crimson and greenery.

Her bridesmaids and flower girls offered a vibrant visual compliment in their emerald dresses from Dessy Group, exquisitely captured by Anee Attelier Inc., their photographer.

All colors popped against the rich wood finishes of The Great Hall, which had been meticulously trimmed in the understated elegance of glowing candles and lush vegetation, crafting the ultimate dreamscape for the bridal party and party-goers alike to celebrate Allyson and Andrew’s commitment.

A 1946 Plymouth was chosen to deliver the antiqued gold candelabras for the tablescapes, each one overflowing lusciously with verdant gifts, bringing the outside gardens into the center of the merriment.

Whether dancing, socializing or celebrating, it was evident that all patrons to this love story had enjoyed themselves immensely.

Perhaps most especially while witnessing Allyson and Andrew’s first dance to, “A New Beginning,” by Bluegrass band Elephant Revival. Though the couple had heard this song many times in the months preceding, their enjoyment was heightened by their new understanding as husband and wife, deepening the spell cast over all those fortunate enough to bear witness.

As the evening’s conclusion drew near, the bride and groom had planned one last sweet memory, favors of Bailey’s Irish Cream and coffee for all their treasured guests.

When asked what advice they would like to share with other couples planning their big day, Allyson and Andrew stated, “Planning a wedding is an exciting time, but also a very stressful time. In the end it will all come together, but the road is not straight.”

Thank you Allyson and Andrew for inviting us to share these intimate moments, and to Anee Attelier Inc. for these gorgeous photographs.

Vendors

DJ: Sound Explosion Event Group – https://www.soundexplosioneventgroup.com/

Flowers: Sam Gregorio’s Florist – https://www.samgregoriosflorist.com/

Dress: Castle Couture – https://www.castlecouturenj.com/

Hashtag – “#McGowantotheChapel”

Photographer: Anee Attelier Inc. (previously Gina Esposito Inc)

Tuxedos: Men’s warehouse – https://tuxedo.menswearhouse.com/special-occasion-tuxedo-looks

Bridal Party: Dessy Group – https://dessy.com/bridesmaid-dresses/

Photobooth: Binx Entertainment (Thomas Stolz)

Festive Wedding Details to Try

Trying to incorporate unique wedding details doesn’t have to be a stressful task. When you’re getting married at Celebrate at Snug Harbor, you have limitless options for festive details you can incorporate. We’re highlighting our favorite decor ideas from Bridal Guide and weddings held at Celebrate Snug Habror that we think will look amazing in the Great Hall, Tuscan Garden, or Tented Pavilion of Celebrate at Snug Harbor!

Door Decor

Decorating the door of the venue is great way to let your guests know where the ceremony or reception is leading to. With so many beautiful buildings on the Snug Harbor grounds, this is a fun way to indicate to your guests where the party is heading to!

Aisle Markers

Used at an exclusive wedding at Celebrate Snug Harbor, these aisle markers incorporated simple greenery with a touch of baby’s breath at each end to spruce up your wedding aisle!

     

Creative Seating Chart

While everyone loves a tented card, these brides had their guests find their seats with a mirrored sign and colorful cards strung together across rustic frames.

 

 

Table Numbers

Festive and inexpensive, try placing your table numbers in a set of corks so that your guests have something to admire and talk about at the table, the way a bride did at Celebrate at Snug Harbor!

   

Unique Chime

Perhaps our favorite from Bridal Guide, this rustic cow bell has been placed as a fun way to get the bride and groom to share a kiss.

The expansive grounds of Celebrate at Snug Harbor allow you to be as creative and festive as you wish. For more wedding decoration ideas, check out our Pinterest page!

5 Tips To Choosing The Perfect Wedding Stationery

Want to make sure you nail it with your wedding stationery? Of course you do! Since we’re the experts in this area, we can help. Here are five tips and tricks to getting it right for your special day.

1. Consider the style and season of your wedding

Wedding stationery should ideally follow a similar theme – although it doesn’t have to be too matchy matchy if you’re not into that. Are you hosting a beautiful spring wedding? Consider soft greens, brilliant blues and florals on white backgrounds. A winter wedding more what you had in mind? Why not try real gold foil or letterpress on crisp black card, or rich tones like burgundy, forest green and navy paired with white or silver. The bridal party’s attire can also inform the stationery’s colour palette.

2. Consider your budget

It’s sad but true – your budget should never be too far from mind when planning a wedding. We know it’s all too easy to get carried away, but keep the bigger picture in mind and consider the high priority items that you want to throw the most cash at. The good news is that thanks to the internet there are so many stunning, affordable invitation suites right at your fingertips at a range of price points!

3. Consider the amount of guests

If you are inviting a large amount of guests, chances are you will need more comprehensive stationery, as word of mouth may not suffice. Guests will appreciate attention to the finer details like RSVP cards, menu cards, gift information, order of events for the day/weekend, address directions and order of service for your ceremony. But also remember that you have to multiply the cost per set of stationery by the amount of guests you’re having. Things can certainly add up, and you don’t want any unexpected surprises!  It can also be a good idea to order some extras for any last minute guests.

4. Choose what works for you

You don’t have to do it all – just because Jane down the road is doing personalised ceremony programme cards for each guest doesn’t mean you have to include them. Think about what is important to you, how traditional you are as a couple and how formal you want your wedding to be, and choose what works for you! You may opt for guests to email their RSVP or for a modern digital Save the Date to save some cash or for practical reasons. Feel free to mix and match, and find what makes sense to you.

5. Timing is everything

Make sure you don’t leave your wedding stationery too late. With so many different cards to send out, you need to make sure you’re on schedule early. Here’s what you need to know:

Save the Dates: send them out 4-6 months before the wedding, giving guests enough time to get themselves organised, particularly if they are travelling a great distance to be there.

Wedding Invitations: send out 6-8 weeks prior to your wedding at at minimum, and more if you are posting the invitations overseas.

RSVP Date: typically should be 3-4 weeks before your wedding, but some circumstances require longer. For a wedding with lots of interstate or international guests, you may choose to use a digital RSVP – like providing your email address instead of an extra card – because posting the RSVP card back can take too much time.

If the decision making process or printing takes longer than expected, you don’t want to end up in a tight spot, so give yourself plenty of wiggle room.

Armed with these guidelines, and maybe a cup of coffee or glass of wine, you are ready to start shopping for the perfect stationery for your special day!

This was a guest post by Lil Williams from Paperlust.

Website: https://paperlust.co/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paperlust.co

Pinterest: https://au.pinterest.com/paperlust_co  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paperlust.co/

Kristina’s Bridal Shower Bliss

Kristina’s bridal shower was a splendid affair. The champagne drinks and dreamy floral lantern arrangements were a testament to the magical day Kristina had been envisioning since she first saw the tall ceilings, rich wood finishes and Palladian windows of The Great Hall.

She felt inspired; this was the quintessential place for her romantic and wistful celebration.

The wall décor, table settings, centerpieces and adorable custom cakes, all vividly captured by Mike Gloria Photography, were thoughtful, well-appointed details, carefully constructed by her Aunt, Bridal Party and the Celebrate Snug Harbor team to convey the bride’s true love for gardens and flowers.

The indulgent dessert station boasted candy decorations that were converted into favors at party’s end, ensuring the sweet memory would linger long after guests had returned home.

But, the sweetest memory of all was the tremendous love Kristina received from the special women in her life.

Kristina agreed, this day was the perfect entryway into a season of wedding jubilee.

 

Vendors

Florist – Wicked Florist -https://wickedflorist.com/

Flower Wall – Eltingville Florist – https://www.eltingvilleflorist.net

Photography – Mike Gloria Photography – https://www.mikegloriaphoto.com/

Cake – Mother Moose – https://mothermousse.com/

Cupcakes and Mini name cakes – Sweet Joy – https://www.facebook.com/sweetjoyinc/

Donuts – Dunkin Donuts – https://www.dunkindonuts.com/en

Macaroons –  A Piece of Cake – https://www.facebook.com/PieceACakeNYC/

Oreo Cookies and Chocolate Covered Pretzels – Drizzle and Company- https://www.instagram.com/drizzleandcompany/?hl=en

Signs/Games/Invitations – Zazzle – https://www.zazzle.com/

Throne Chair – Aviance Event Planning and Lounge Decor – http://www.loungedecor.com/