If there’s one thing I’ve learned in this business, it’s that there’s nothing like a true expert. They save precious time and add refinement to everything they touch. Plus, you can always count on them. That’s why I’ve decided to share as many tips as possible from my favorite pros in the field. Ranging from the best in photography, planning, design and more, the talents below will give you a running start and enviable polish in whatever you’re setting out to do. I’ve worked with everyone on this list, so I can attest to these professionals’ talent and superior work. In fact, most have been in the business for more than five years – experience that’s priceless.
ABIGAIL KIRSCH
Renowned for their excellent service, superior food, and beautiful presentation, Abigail Kirsch is a continual success story for New York and tri-state area brides. What started as a small business serving predominately Westchester and Fairfield Counties, Abigail Kirsch quickly expanded to include Manhattan and the entire tri-state area. In 1990 the Kirschs opened Tappan Hill Mansion and began operating their first exclusive venue. Since Tappan Hill, the family has added The New York Botanical Garden, Pier Sixty and The Lighthouse, and Stage 6 at Steiner Studios to their exclusive venue portfolio. Abigail Kirsch is the largest operator of exclusive event venues in the greater New York City area. Each location offers defining architectural features – from the quintessential country mansion, Tappan Hill, to The Lighthouse, a city loft on the Hudson. No matter which location you choose, all Abigail Kirsch Exclusive Venues feature comprehensive turn-key event planning. Sales and event managers guide clients through selecting from our seasoned team of professionals for entertainment, photography, floral design, technology support or anything else that may be needed.
“When you strive for excellence with food – and create unforgettable presentations – I’m in love. Abigail Kirsch Catering does just that. If you’re lucky enough to have one of your events at any of their fine venues, your guests will be loving their food experience the entire evening.” - CECI JOHNSON
See more on Abigail Kirsch in CeciStyle, or visit abigailkirsch.com for more info.
BARRAUD CATERERS
Rosemary Howe, chef/owner of Barraud Caterers Limited, a full service catering company based in New York City, has been a professional chef since 1978, founding her catering company in 1980. Howe has appeared as a guest on chef and TV personality Sara Moulton’s show “Cooking Live” on the Food Network. Zagat recommends Barraud Caterers for those “who appreciate quality,” offering “sophisticated custom-tailored menus,” “beautiful presentation, excellent service adding to a fine experience.”
“What I love about Ro is not only her happy, friendly energy and enviable British accent, but her enthusiastic passion for the art of cooking. With a love for presentation and attention to detail, Ro is at the top of my list. Her work is so impeccable that every morsel on your plate is there for a reason: to delight your senses down to the very last bite. Anything she makes will have you craving more.” - CECI JOHNSON
See more on Barraud Caterers in CeciStyle, or visit barraudcaterers.com for more info.
CALLAHAN CATERING
Callahan Catering’s niche is made up of people who are passionate about their parties, particularly the food and design; its clients are well-traveled and dine in the best restaurants. The company creates timeless looks, food at the caliber of a five-star restaurant, and beautiful design—all coupled with the best service and flawless execution. With the belief that food should be a form of entertainment, it caters events from Maine to Los Angeles, as well as internationally. Based in New York, Callahan Catering also maintains an office and kitchen in its original home city of Philadelphia.
“I love people who aren’t afraid to try something new and Peter Callahan has always been a trend-setter. He consistently creates fascinating things with gourmet food and continues to impress me with his creations. Not only will your guests love his food, but they, too, will be amazed with its unique presentation and playful creativity. Like me and many of my esteemed colleagues, Peter has received the prestigious Modern Bride Top 25 Trendsetter Award, regarded as the Oscar of the wedding industry.” - CECI JOHNSON
See more on Callahan Catering in CeciStyle, or visit callahancatering.com for more info.
DYLAN’S CANDY BAR
Dylan Lauren, known to many as the “Candy Queen,” is the founder and CEO of Dylan’s Candy Bar. Her stores in New York City, East Hampton, Roosevelt Field, Houston and Orlando are the most original candy emporiums on the planet featuring unique candy from around the world and decades past. As the daughter of legendary fashion icon Ralph Lauren and author Ricky Lauren, Dylan was immersed at an early age in design, art and fashion. After graduating from Duke University with a major in Art History, she traveled the globe in search of the world’s most exciting confectionery creations. By 2001, she realized her childhood dream by opening her first candy store inspired by Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. Dylan Lauren and her “candy-centric” tips for living the sweet life are often featured in press across the country. She shares entertaining, decorating and gift-giving ideas for every holiday and special occasion with her chic and colorful signature style.
“Dylan is one of those girls who just knows what she loves and makes it happen. She appreciates beautiful details and isn’t afraid to go for her dreams. I truly admire her love of candy, and how she turned that passion into one of the most well-known candy hot spots in NYC. Products like her colorful lollipops can be spotted far beyond her Upper East Side candy bar – I’ve even seen them in airports! Her candies are treats for all ages.” - CECI JOHNSON
See more on Dylan’s Candy bar in CeciStyle, or visit dylanscandybar.com for more info.
FANY GERSON
A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, Fany Gerson has worked in many kitchens—from the three-Michelin star Akelare in Spain, to Eleven Madison Park and Rosa Mexicano in New York, where she developed their celebrated modern Mexican desserts. Fany’s work has been featured in Gourmet, the New York Times, Fine Cooking, Daily Candy, and New York magazine. She splits her time between her native Mexico and New York City.
“Fany is a longtime client of mine whom I met when designing her wedding invitations many years back. Since then she has followed her dreams and launched La Newyorkina, her very own Mexican ice cream shop in NYC! Her ice pops are perfect for parties or just as a treat for yourself on a hot summer day. A must-try! Plus, her new book, “My Sweet Mexico” is full of wonderful recipes for authentic Mexican sweets that all of us can try making at home. I’m so proud of Fany for turning her dreams into reality!!” - CECI JOHNSON
See more on Fany Gerson in CeciStyle, or visit mysweetmexico.com for more info.
MARCEY BROWNSTEIN CATERING
Chef and owner Marcey Brownstein brings an impeccable sense of style – refined through 10 years in New York’s fashion industry and a lifetime of international travel – to every event. In just eight years, Marcey has created a company that chefs, food professionals, magazine editors and world-renowned entertainers trust with their most important occasions. Marcey Brownstein Catering provides you with outstanding food, presented in the most extraordinary way. We believe that our combination of fresh, seasonal ingredients, culinary expertise, caring service and experience with event planning sense will make your party exceed your expectations.
“If you want to enjoy delicious food, you must try Marcey’s culinary delights. Truly, her food tastes as good as it looks and is always a favorite among the most discerning palates. Plus, you will love her team’s top-notch service. Whether it’s for a party or an intimate dinner, Marcey Brownstein Catering will not let you down!” - CECI JOHNSON
See more on Marcey Browstein Catering in CeciStyle, or visit marceybrownstein.com for more info.
SARA JANE MERCER
I am a born-and-raised New York City girl living in Tribeca with my husband Doug and our adorable monkey (dog) Madison. My life is busy, fast-paced, and full. Despite the hectic nature of life in NYC, I always make health and wellness a priority. I am not a vegan or a raw-foodist. I try my best not to label the way I eat or put myself in a box. I find boxes claustrophobic and too small for a real person. I love vegetables, and because of this base the majority of my diet around them. I love recipes that are simple and imprecise. I love experimenting for hours in my kitchen and sharing the results with my friends. I am excited to share my clean pure and simple recipes, travel tips, beauty recommendations and more with you. I truly believe healthy living should be an easy and fun daily indulgence!
“I was first introduced to Sara when she was planning her wedding. We had a blast working together designing her invitations. I was always impressed by her incredible organization skills, sense of style and passion for perfection. Recently she launched a blog full of healthy tips for living where she also shares her latest yummy recipes she’s conjured up in her kitchen. Smart, delicious and healthy! Three things I love. ” - CECI JOHNSON
See more on Sara Jane Mercer in CeciStyle, or visit sarajanemercer.com for more info.
