Samantha Goldberg to Assist with Caribbean Promotion

Posted on April 17, 2013 Written by Leave a Comment

 

By Paul Pannone

Samantha Goldberg is making her way up the charts by becoming involved with high-profile projects that can mutually benefit from her followers, fans and fun style. Last month Goldberg announced a television project designed to challenge wedding industry crooks and scams. Goldberg called out Marni Gold for reasons she felt were sinister, telling eWedNewz it was only the start of what’s to come.

Tobago in the West Indies is the spot where Samantha Goldberg and Jacqueline Johnson reportedly collaborated to replace boring speakers with a more dynamic approach to promoting the Caribbean.

 

This month from her Linked In profile Goldberg announced a collaboration with the CTO foundation to help promote Caribbean tourism and destination weddings. Goldberg was welcomed in late 2012 by Jacqueline Johnson of Marry Caribbean, who oversees publicity for the Caribbean countries, to travel to Tobago, replacing speakers who reportedly gave disappointing results the year before at the Third annual Symposium.

According to the release:

The highly sought after celebrity event designer and television personality, Samantha Goldberg, is to put some of her expertise towards assisting Caribbean nationals pursuing further studies in tourism related subjects in the Caribbean. To include “Destination Weddings, Special Events and More… Samantha has agreed to serve on the board of directors of the CTO Foundation, The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO), with headquarters in Barbados and offices in New York and London, is the Caribbean’s tourism development agency comprising membership of over 30 countries and territories including Dutch, English, French and Spanish, as well as a myriad of private sector allied members. The CTO’s vision is to position the Caribbean as the most desirable, year round, warm weather destination by 2017, and its purpose is Leading Sustainable Tourism – One Sea, One Voice, One Caribbean.

Among the benefits to its members the organization provides specialized support and technical assistance in sustainable tourism development, marketing, communications, advocacy, human resource development, research and information technology.

In addition the CTO, in partnership with the Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association, jointly and equally owns the Caribbean Tourism Development Company, a marketing and business development entity dedicated to promoting the Caribbean brand worldwide.

eWedNewz continues to follow Goldberg’s movement and expected assault on questionable wedding industry activities.

 

 

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Filed Under: Celebrity, Destination Weddings, General News, Travel, Uncategorized, wedding industry, Wedding planners Tagged: , , , , ,

Caribbean Conference Cries Wolf

Posted on June 10, 2012 Written by 2 Comments

By Paul Pannone

Caribbean Week, 2012, in New York City brought together over 30 countries, pooling resources, ideas and goodwill of the most popular wedding destinations in the world. Information and education guides the group who strive to always keep ahead of trends and make travel experience to the region the best it can be.

I’m especially impressed by the group’s choice of speakers for the event. Headed by committed people including my friend, Jacqueline Johnson, the organization continues to grow and thrive at a time when economic challenges make it increasing difficult to do business.

 

Philip Wolf argued to get the PA system to work and delivered an impressive presentation.

 

This year the organization kept pace with the standard of excellence they’ve set for themselves and cried wolf; Philip Wolf.

It’s customary that you sit through a presentation before passing judgement on how good (or bad) the speaker was. With Wolf, his argument and vehement exchange with Marriott management over the public address system set the tone in my mind of what was to come. Problems with the system and a corporate approach by Marriott was not good enough for Wolf.

Mr. Corporate Marriott Man: “Let’s get the contract and review it.”

Wolf: “There’s no need to get the contract, let’s fix the problem.”

After some ear-splitting feedback and slight delay to the start of the presentation the dynamic speaker mesmerized the audience offering some radical ideas that upset some of the more tight (a$$) traditionalists who will differ with  Wolf’s approach; to telling the truth– instead of being politically correct.

In his presentation he made it clear how “good enough” is no longer good enough. His message clearly tells of the lackluster experiences that offer no explanation turns off consumers in a way never seen.

“It’s OK to be delayed on the tarmac for an hour, it happens. But to leave people to wonder why is unacceptable. It should be, ladies and gentlemen, we’re going to be delayed because there are 400 flights leaving this evening and we’re number 399,” said Wolf.

Mr. Wolf’s non-nonsense approach and unwillingness to accept some bullshit, corporate reason for ineptness, is both refreshing and needed. Raising the standards and refusing to accept things as they are is what’s going to bring about change.

 

Jacqueline Johnson continues to masterfully rise above injustice and adversity. She never misses a chance to hire the most dynamic speakers for her events that spark a bit of controversy, raise the blood pressure and bring about change. Smile Jackie– you know you love it.

 

I am thankful to my friend, Jackie Johnson, for inviting me. It’s no secret Jackie has been through her share of injustice, experiencing prejudice at every level. I admire her ability to survive and thrive in her world where she’s sometimes forced to deal with fluff, fake happy thoughts and false, gracious wishes. But I am equally happy in knowing she’s smiling, getting the story that most reporters would never cover.

Thanks Jackie,

Paul

 

 

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Filed Under: Advertising and Marketing, Anti Fairy Dust, eWedNewz, Paul Pannone, Travel, wedding industry, Wedding Industry Events, wedding websites Tagged: , , , , , , ,

The President’s View on Same-sex Marriage Comes Out; what do Wedding Water Cooler members say?

Posted on May 10, 2012 Written by 3 Comments

By Paul Pannone

Facing a new low in approval rating earlier this year president Obama took a shot at jump starting his popularity, especially among liberal voters and supporters of same-sex marriages. Members of the Wedding Water Cooler were asked for their thoughts.

 

With political pressure mounting president Obama announces his opinion of same-sex marriages.

 

June Hoffman, an Indiana Officiant asked Weeding Water Cooler members for their thoughts:

“Hi Coolies~

I could hardly believe the radio today when they reported President Obama’s new stance on same – sex marriage. I had to read it myself. Legalizing marriage for same-sex couples could potentially have a huge impact on the wedding-world economy. As Officiants/DJs/MCs, we’ve performed commitment ceremonies and receptions in the past. I know that there would be a huge spike in weddings if this becomes legal. Same-sex couples have the same challenges and dreams as other couples. Times are changing indeed.

President Obama is the first president to endorse this type stand. It would sure do wonders for the bridal gown and tuxedo businesses as well as all other facets of the wedding community [?].”

Certain members of the Wedding Water Cooler– one’s with brains that work– gave their thoughts on the subject that varied from opposition to thanking God for the president’s action. Strong arguments on all fronts presented in a professional way gave similar conclusions favoring personal belief and individuality that resists government intervention.

Peter Gould told Coolies, “Personally I think the government should get out of sanctioning a religious ritual such a marriage, and abide by separation of church and state. I realize that for legal reasons, and there are many we need to recognize some sort of domestic unions and partnerships for all gay or straight, and those that want to have a marriage do so separately in their religion.”

Liz St. John lightened some of the heavy thoughts with some levity pointing out;

” Just an observation here – (though I believe that ANYONE that would like to be married, should be able to make that mistake).

We now have one candidate for president the believes that two people should be able to marry regardless of sex and one candidate that believes that one man should be able to marry multiple women.. Very interesting time to be alive.”

But back to business, Jim Duhe told the group;

“While I personally always have supported same sex marriage, I think that we’re still a long way from having no resistance on this topic.  Look at what just happened in North Carolina.  The battle is far from won.  Obama isn’t a shoe-in for the next election. None of that means that I’m not optimistic.  I want same sex marriages to be a reality because they are the right thing to do.  I hope that they have a positive impact on our industry but I won’t count the money until I see the cash in my hand.  I’m not sure how I’d react if I were personally impacted by this ruling.  I don’t believe that I’d jump up and marry tomorrow but that’s a hypothesis.  I’m not sure what I’d do. “

On the more opininated side Samantha Goldberg who is also from Chicago, told WWC members;

“Not an Obama fan….

1.How he walked into office with accepting the Nobel prize..

2. He is not as sincere as one thinks..I am a Chicago native and that is where he lived for a long time.

3. He thinks he was responsible for Osama? LMAO…I have swampland too..

No comment… Sorry if that sounds cold- He could careless about gay etc.. He is trying to regain what he had when he accepted the role as “President” he lost many believers..that is fact…He’s lost the trust …so what does someone of this caliber due when they begin to lose this? They go for areas that the public fights for…to save his ass…” said Goldberg. So much for “no comment”.

Analyst and creator of the Wedding Water Cooler, Christine Boulton had this to say;

“ I think that the right to marry should be a universal right but it must be fought on a state by state basis. Woe be to the politician that puts forth the reported constitutional amendment to define marriage as “between a man and a woman” that it is rumored certain conservative Senators and Representatives are proposing. They risk their reputation with all but the very conservative fundamentalist religious types. (btw, it isn’t just Christians, it is the fundamentalist side of ALL religions)

One thing that President Obama said that was I think the most salient thing he has ever said, it was his children that helped to shape his new view. When in the course of conversation with his daughters it became evident that they saw no difference in the parents of their peers that were same sex couples, if fact, didn’t find it odd in the least, that he changed his view.

That my friends is what will make the change. How we raise or children. If we raise the next generation to be open and accepting, gay marriage will become open and accepted. If on the other hand, we raise them to be bigots, then we will see more repression. Just the opinion of one person.”

Jacqueline Johnson commented;

“I guess I am the only one left to comment on this very important matter.  I applaud the President for having a new revelation on life and addressing the fact that if a couple desires to pledge their everlasting love and loyalty to each other – they should have the right to do so.  Whether it is to get votes or not (no one can tell what is in the heart of anyone) he changed his mind from 3 years ago and now trying to correct a wrong.

I make it a rule not to comment on religion on politics outside of the home - as you always manage to offend someone.  However, the President did inherit a country in serious financial trouble, and while some of his actions I do not agree with, he has done the best job he knows how to: to steer a massive ship fraught with some of the most mean-spirited people you can find in this century.  From a woman’s right to healthcare: you have old, narrow-minded men dictating how we should all live and care for our bodies.

And yes, whether we like it or not, he did give the okay to have Osama Bin Laden taken out.  If the mission had failed, he would be blamed mercilessly for putting the lives of Americans at risk – and how naïve he was to undertake such a mission.  It happened under his watch – so he either gets the blame or the credit.

As one who knows the sting of racism first hand, I believe in live and let live. Gay, lesbian, heterosexual, we should all live our lives in a dignified manner.”

Johnson wrote about the value of the growing GLBT market, challenging the narrow-minded thinkers of the wedding business to embrace, not shun them.

eWedNewz gives the last slot to Marcinho Savant who had this to say in part:

“Some people must be unaware that at certain times throughout history, same-gender unions were, in fact, blessed by clergy and clerics. Life did not begin with the narrow scope surrounding the years we may personally remember— or whatever we may have personally been trained to believe. How lucky one must be to believe that one’s opinion is absolute and correct— beyond questioning, investigation and unimpeachable. What a luxury it must be to be able to smugly discount the pains of other souls. Thank God SOMEONE questioned something or we’d still believe the world was FLAT.”

 What do you think? Do you agree with Obama’s decision to become  the first president to endorse same-sex marriages?

eWedNewz

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Filed Under: eWedNewz, GLBT, Officiants, Poll, Same-sex marriage, wedding industry, Wedding Industry Events, Wedding Water Cooler Tagged: , , , , , , , , ,

The bigger Debate of Whether the Guys should Match the Girls

Posted on April 10, 2012 Written by 3 Comments

By Paul Pannone

The look and feel of weddings continues to evolve to match the taste of an updated consumer that no longer marches to the beat of tradition and protocol. The financial crash that happened in 2008 reset the wedding industry, after it rebounded after 2002. But like all things change is good most of the time, but not all.

After 9/11/2001 the outlook on life and what makes people happy permeated all aspects of living, especially how the United States– and the world– views marriage. Tradition, religion and all things that box people in by rules is under attack; the goal is freedom to do what we want, when and if we want it.

As far back as 2006 American Wedding Traditions wrote:

Every American wedding has subtle traditional elements, but there are no really strict guidelines that we follow when planning our big day. Over the last ten years, wedding etiquette has really relaxed and American wedding traditions have become a lot more liberal. This new liberal outlook has enabled couples to marry in a style that they are comfortable with, instead of the sometimes rigid standards that some used to associate with American wedding tradition.

Of course this information scares the life out of people and organizations that make a living at selling fairy dust marketing, speaking engagements and general falsehoods of how to double your wedding business when in reality, marriage– how we know it– is all but over.

“I disagree that marriage is over, it’s simply changed. And Change is good, if it truly is for the better. Some of the changes I’ve seen are magnificent and long overdue. In fact some of the changes shouldn’t have happened because things were wrong to begin with. What I am saying is if something is done right by a bride, a groom, a couple; and takes into account good sense and good taste, there should never be a problem,” according to Jim Duhe.

But even Duhe admits some of the changes are attempts to grasp at straws because business has been so bad over the past few years. Like-thinking members of the Wedding Water Cooler that agree with Duhe understand how important it is to provide relevant information, including building confidence in right of passage events and how to approach them. Sheryl Davies, Jacqueline Johnson, Christine Boulton, Paul Eilenberg,  Steve Lang and other members agree changes are good but they must be based on good data, better judgement, all guided by good taste.

At a recent meeting Jim Duhe told eWedNewz the wedding industry is at a crossroad.

“It starts at the cradle and carries forth through high school. By then the formative years are gone and young adults are set in their ways. The world doesn’t need redundant rules but does require some structure. It simply cannot be a free-for-all,” he told eWedNewz.

In his career Duhe has blasted editors that inflict their personal opinions where they don’t belong. According to Duhe information should come from an expert; a person that makes their living interacting with their product, thereby gaining knowledge in all aspects of its creation and how it performs in the marketplace.

“That to me is a true expert. In the old days we called them professionals,” he told eWedNewz.

Duhe’s aversion to  Self-Proclaimed Tuxedo Experts is particularly interesting. Although he is a women’s formal fashion expert his thoughts are quite clear when it comes to the men.

“If it’s a formal event and she is in a gown, he belongs in a tuxedo. End of story,” he continues to profess.

In a debate on the Internet yesterday Duhe weighed in a curious picture that proposes men’s formal wear accessories no longer need to match the lady’s gown color. According to views opposing the idea, adverse changes happening in weddings are the direct result of younger-age groups not getting the right information at an earlier stage in life.

 

A new decree from a Savvi member say’s it’s good to be different. What do you say?

“So, I am taking this picture has to do with proms? Well, this is my point; that’s where it all starts. If people are not told how to dress properly in their teens, what do you think is going to happen when it’s time to marry?” asks Duhe.

Another like-thinking member of the WWC, Paul Eilenberg, said the following:

“I’m guessing this was not a joke.  This is an absolute disgrace. Certain things just can’t be fixed. The first part that offends  to mind is the vest. Vests end at or just a hair below the waist, not at the crotch. Is this a 1975 was & wear suit from Robert Hall? It certainly has that less than tailored look. The shirt is abominable  as is the pre-knotted tie.  I am unqualified to comment on the dress, however it does look god awful.”

The debate on my personal Face Book page at first garnered wishy-washy statements, unsure of how to answer. Private messages asked if I somehow sanctioned the look. Throughout, I refrained from giving my personal thoughts and kept the creator of the look a secret.

Picking up on on the story were bloggers and other tuxedo people who gave their thoughts. Heather Sconza blogged about the debate and gave a good account of what is happening.

“I always get excited to see where Paul is going with these questions, and this one had me scratching my head at first. Paul showed us a picture of a light canary yellow bridesmaid dressed standing next to what would be a groomsmen outfit made of a grey tuxedo with a vest in a dated looking shade of green paired with a tie striped of what looked like a hunter green, mint green, olive green maybe. First reaction = “ewww”!,” writes Sconza.

Read the entire story to see what she finally thinks. Heather is the upcoming generation that we’ve written about in this story. It matters little what Savvi says or what I think.

 

Is Heather right? Is Jim Duhe wrong? Please comment and tell us about it.

eWedNewz

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2012

Filed Under: Anti Fairy Dust, bridal, Bridal Dresses, Economic news, General News, Men's formal wear, Paul Pannone, Proms, Research, retail, Social Media, tuxedos, Wedding Dresses, wedding industry, Wedding Water Cooler Tagged: , , , , , , ,

Poll Shows Internet Thievery Disapproval but the thieving continues to Rise

Posted on February 28, 2012 Written by Leave a Comment

 

By Paul Pannone

An ongoing eWedNewz poll shows 90% of respondents so far saying they disapprove of internet theft. Yet thievery on the Internet continues to run wild. eWedNewz digs deeper to find what’s behind the disparity between how people are voting– and how they could be acting.

Discussions with wedding experts in the Wedding Water Cooler gave various reason about why the poll number against thievery is so high and how people justify their actions.

 

Whether Christine is thinking like a bride, a wedding marketer, a web developer, or a conscientious person, she’s always thinking.

“It’s people protecting their property and not thinking twice of lifting an image, a song, an idea, etc., from the next person,” says Christine Boulton.

According to Boulton internet thievery is a growing and unsolvable problem that will continue to get worse. Like driving 56 in a 55 MPH zone or taking office supplies from work the inability to enforce every single act of larceny comes down to feasibility.

 

There are laws and speed limits that could be enforced. But to the greatest degree on the Internet, every thing is legal– as long as you don’t get caught.

 

“Eventually there will be laws; to at least guide people as to what to do and what not to do. Speeding for example; everyone does it. People speed and break the law every day in this country. A huge percentage get away with it. The few that don’t have to really be going over the limit to get pulled over or just be really unlucky that day,” says Boulton.

Similar statements and expanded thoughts from other WWC members, including David Fuhrer said the following:

“Rigid organized enforcement. Thus far only the music & film industry have possessed the deep-pockets & fortitude to pursue pirated copyrighted material. The result to the pirate is harmful in so much as the music labels aren’t looking to settle, they seek a court judgement against the pirate. They have seceded to a degree and judgement against those that they have pursued are for like $100K. This serves as a deterrent.

In almost every other industry, no organized enforcement exists, placing–in the Wedding Industry–the onus of pursuing a remedy against anything pirated upon the person or company affected or stolen from. Atop of all this is a very vague ability to meet a “burden of proof”. Internet content is accessible & housed upon so many variables, that “burden of proof” is nearly impossible in regards to who is responsible.

If a photo of a tuxedo is pirated off a copyright protected website, who does the victim pursue? The person who lifted the image, the operating system upon the device they used to lift the image, the browser that took them to the page upon which the image was copyright displayed? Add to that the fact that so many browsers, operating systems, and platforms exist…and the FACT that all of them are unified in regards to the “Internet must be kept open and free..or it is a Constitutional Rights infringement—not a copyright infringement” and you have a mess, without over-site or a Government-State-Industry enforcement body that can enforce.

The mess is only going to gain momentum…unless rigid enforcement is achieved and the general population realizes that pirating results in huge fines and jail time….and that ain’t happening any time soon,” says Fuhrer.

In nearly all discussions with WWC members the lack of governing laws and guidelines are looked upon as a green light to steal, pilfer, plagiarise with no limits. Some feel the weak attempts made are nothing more than idle warnings to the real perpetrators and abusers.

Jim Duhe told eWedNewz, “The people and companies who are being victimized by internet thievery naturally agree that it’s a terrible business practice.  If you had polled the companies responsible for producing counterfeit merchandise, at least 90% probably would agree that the practice is acceptable.  The thievery continues because there is no practical means to put an end to it.  There is no prosecution and there are no penalties.  The offending companies in illegal web-copying of wedding dresses close and reopen the following day under a different name.  Because these companies are headquartered in China, it’s almost impossible to have a meaningful impact on their conduct under the current legal structure.

Consumers have had years to become accustomed to the high quality of counterfeit handbags, sunglasses, jewelry, and a variety of other products being produced in China.  However, the cost of producing these items is vastly different from the cost of producing bridal apparel.  Therefore, the quality of counterfeit bridal apparel is measurably inferior to the original.  Moreover, many counterfeiters pirate images of the original merchandise to sell their inferior quality knock-offs.  There is no way for consumers to know that these images are being used without the original designer’s permission.  They assume that the images accurately represent the merchandise they are purchasing. This creates a situation in which the consumer always loses.”

In interviews and discussions with small operators to Celebrity Brand personalities eWedNewz detects the frustration, even from people with the means to prosecute. Celebrity Brand Planner, Samantha Goldberg, told eWNz;

“I have been a victim of this for so long and I have learned that while it isn’t right and should not be tolerated, in speaking with lawyers etc..I do have have a patent on whats on my site. There is no reason to have one. If it was proven that I lost work due to someone taking my information I could press charges. If I cannot prove that it has destroyed my brand, taking business away etc…There is nothing that can be done with the exception of having the industry as my back-up to fight with specific situations.

It’s dirty,it’s wrong and those who take it, have not become more successful. However, it’s a violation of what I have accomplished. Luckily for me, my fish tank look most people know it was my idea as it was on TV and published a few times. Does it stop people? No.

Even with the fabulous support from you and some influential people etc..They do not listen. The situation with Koyle Wholesale a LARGE VERY VERY well known wholesale company has my work on their site is horrible.  Not only is this wrong but they snuck those photos..I have emailed and called asking them if stealing has caused them to have a better market share? How did they come up with such a grand idea? I asked for credit…I said I will allow you to use this, but you need to do what is right and give credit where it’s due…Nope.

They must have had someone working that event and took personally or they stole off the manufacturers site www.fancyfaces.com This is the worst form of stealing. Not only are they saying they are the ones who made it, but are using an idea I designed based on this company “fancy faces” and stating they can sell to the public which is not the practice of www.fancyfaces.com.  This design and tools for it are for PROFESSIONALS ONLY and rentals…or buying it to use…Heck they (Fancy) could be selling on the side,  don’t think FF would do that….

Bottom line, we could change a few ways so those cannot steal or copy a concept..It’s not going to end unless legally it’s shown that they have taken business away…If you could get numbers of how much business now we are talking..If you cannot, you lose.”

Blatant disrespect and scofflaw abounds on the Internet, according to victims. Some members of the WWC group say they’ve lost hundreds of thousands of dollars defending against thievery, only to win hollow victories.

“Not only have I been a victim of my work being used as their own, both my websites were copied with a slight misspelling in the word Caribbean. Hence if you entered the incorrect spelling all hits, visits etc would go to these thieving bastards.

Then there are those who blatantly steal in another way by flouting contractual deals when the revenues come in. I have seen it or been and still is a victim of these terrible people,” says Jacqueline Johnson of Marry Caribbean.

It’s been nearly a week since eWedNewz reached out to SnapKnot to find out what they have to say about allegations against them. So far they have not responded but neither has any photographers that may share culpability in borrowing images or creative ideas of competitors. According to members of the Water Cooler photographers are among the most dishonest when it comes to taking work from others.

“We’ve all seen dishonest people who hide their dishonesty by declaring the acts they themselves do all the time; as wrong. Just because someone says “I’m honest, stealing is wrong, people shouldn’t lie” it doesn’t mean they believe it. What they really mean is “they don’t want people to know they aren’t honest, it’s ok to steal as long as they are doing the stealing, and people shouldn’t lie to them; but they will definitely lie to everyone else”. Those people suck,” says Sandra Aaron.

 eWedNewz continues our investigation into this story and welcomes your thoughts.

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Filed Under: eWedNewz, General News, Ongoing Story Investigation, Poll, Wedding Water Cooler Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Think Pink; Samantha Goldberg Story sets off a wave of Charity Ideas and Support

Posted on December 6, 2011 Written by Leave a Comment

By Paul Pannone

The Samantha Goldberg story that showed kindness to a breast cancer patient is touching the heart of many wedding industry members that have quietly supported the cause for years. Goldberg’s charitable act that recruited members of the Wedding Water Cooler members including Steve Lang of Mon Cheri shows there are caring people in a business often filled with slime.

“As soon as the story released I began getting calls and emails offering help in future projects that would help people less fortunate than us. The traffic to my website and searches to all my channels spiked; it made me feel good to know there are people who care,” according to Samantha Goldberg.”

In an ongoing eWNz investigation Goldberg’s fight with charities in the wedding industry citing political issues have taken a back seat to the real interests she has.

“I want to help people, not fight about it. I’m not ready to tell the world what really went on but when I am, trust me, you’ll know. I’m no longer wasting my precious time arguing while people who could use some help suffer. I want to help as many people as I can that are less fortunate than me. After all, isn’t that what charity is really all about?” she asks rhetorically.

Goldberg told eWNz she’s negotiating with one of the biggest charities on earth and will have a formal announcement in the near future.

Goldberg’s partner in the act of kindness, Steve Lang of Mon Cheri, humbly thanked everyone for being able to take part in helping another human being. Lang and many other members of the Water Cooler Group said they were moved with Samantha’s account of what took place.

“It was a simple act of humanity and having compassion for someone, that’s all,” said Lang, downplaying his actions.

 

Think Pink for those less fortunate. Shy

 

 

Long-time wedding industry veteran, Jacqueline Johnson, also commented to the story saying she was touched.

“Samantha did a wonderful thing for someone and that’s great. She gives so much herself in everything she does. Her passion for what she believes in is to be commended,” according to Johnson. 

In doing a little research eWedNewz discovered some very commendable things about Jacqueline as well. Ms. Johnson, a highly respected authority and consultant to many Caribbean nations went pink earlier this year.

Details on her website say;

Project Pink, Inc was founded in February 2011 and applied for its 501(c)3 status the same month. Five weeks later we received our IRS designation letter – it was meant to be! Our Board of Directors consists of a fantastic and diverse group of individuals: a medical oncologist as the President along with a sponsorship expert, an insurance guru, and a financial director. Each is contributing financially and working alongside of me to further our mission.

Our foundation will be governed by policies and procedures in all aspects. In accordance with both Virginia law and our Board of Directors, PPI will have a full audit once per year. As we realize that public trust is essential to our success, we pledge to make our financial information readily available on the home page of our website. Our goal is to make Project Pink, Inc a hallmark of integrity and transparency in the non-profit sector. Additionally, you can expect to soon see a complete list of guidelines for different events and programs which will help you to streamline your events and unify our brand message.

After the story other charities and breast cancer projects contacted us. We’re reviewing possible collaborations to strengthen efforts to help find a cure to this dreaded disease. We will keep you informed of any activity or announcements in the months ahead.

Please contact us if you would like to get involved or give to these charitable causes.

 

 

 

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2011

Filed Under: Bridal Dresses, Celebrity, Charity Work, eWedNewz, General News, wedding industry, Wedding planners Tagged: , , , , , ,

72 Days and Millions later the Kardashians Crack; Wedding Water Coolies Weigh In

Posted on November 1, 2011 Written by 2 Comments

By Paul Pannone

Let’s face it, Kris Kardashian never stood a chance being the traditional breadwinner in the arrangement that took place on August 20th, 2011. In just 72 days, (Mr.) Kim Kardashian filed for divorce ”after much consideration”. Shed no tears for either of the divorcing parties, they’re rich, good-looking and young. But what does the breakup do for  the long-term image of marriage?

Wedding Water Cooler member, Chris Jaeger, says the wedding business is battered and the Humphries-Kardashian divorce is just another black eye.

 

The topic was discussed in the Wedding Water Cooler, worrying some of the wedding experts that realize nothing is sacred any longer.

“The Kardashian affair is just a sign of the times. With the worst of wedding behavior scoring big on the airwaves, you should have known that the queen of celebrity for celebrity sake would jump on the bandwagon. She will get a double score because I am sure the tabloids will have a bloody field day with the divorce proceedings. I just hope the poor schmuck that she picked as the groom got a big payday because you can bet he will be drug through the mud before the divorce is final.

People, our industry is being decimated by drama and bad behavior. The shysters, used car salesman and carnival barkers are making all the noise. Meanwhile, those of us who have been in the industry and are the true professionals are going to get tarred with the same brush. We have to speak out about the bad behavior and decay,” according to wedding expert, Christine Boulton.

In her views Boulton encourages all her fellow WWC associates to use their channels to promote the sanctity of marriage and preserve its meaning beyond the dollar signs. But little gets past the membership of WWC, as Coolies study high-profile weddings closely, looking for tell-tale signs of trouble.

Jacqueline Johnson noticed, “It was very interesting but I was of the opinion that this was not going to work as the husband was rude and obstinate. He wanted to be involved in every aspect but had nothing to add. I thought he was just looking for ‘air time’. I remember the cake tasting and what an obstinate jerk he was. Insisted on being there and decided he did not like sweets so he would not even taste the cake. This and a few more uncalled for remarks made me think this was a bad choice in mate. I hope she gives herself time and find a more compatible mate. Just like most of today’s drama queens it is about ratings and not the sanctity of marriage vows. Well with all the money derived from this event and it was an event she will keep doing it until she gets it right.

Impassioned members of the group speak out and speak up for the human side of the story and how it portrays weddings in all formats.  Some of the WWC members say they find the melding of the purity of marriage tainted by the charade despicable.

Marcinho Savant told eWedNewz, ” Kardashian!  If true, it is despicable enough that they ‘staged’ a wedding in the first place!  It has been alleged that she was paid $17.9 million dollars to participate in what stinks of a shady, sham, FREE, $10m wedding.  Sanctity of marriage?  I just threw up in my mouth… a LOT!

Now from where I sit, in the niche market of GLBTI weddings and events, it breaks our collective heart, that Kardashian, and Britney Spears before her and others even sooner… can get married, willy-nilly— while a tens of thousands of other human beings are seeking the honor of being allowed to marry… even ONCE!   In this case, however, I see it as different from the Spears affront.    Bless her heart, she was, at the time, as odd as a fig-filled grapefruit!  Her’s was an impulsive, immature, “I’m rich and can do what I WANT!”, self-indulgent “because I can” spectacle.  Highly “sanctified”, no?

As far as Kardashian and Humphries… they’re “crazy like a FOX”!   I find it very hard to believe that this was not planned, from start to finish, as an income-producing mockery of the institution of marriage by all involved!  For the world to see.  Let’s take an inventory.  Everybody got PAID!  The advertisers, the media outlets, the tabloids, the “Actors”/(“happy couple”), the wedding professionals/designers/planners roped into this steaming pile of dung— the florists, the limo companies, hotels, villa rentals, caterers, cake designers— Every. Body. Got. Paid (I’m happy the vendors and wedding pros got paid, actually).  And, even in the divorce, the happy couple STILL splits the “sangwich”, with CA being a community property divorce state.

Google her perfunctory, icy, emotionless announcement of the split.  What a bunch of metered, “artfully crafted” tripe. Who wrote that!? “Sanctity of marriage” my eye! Protect it from whom?  It seems that marriage’s sanctity has already been well-damaged historically— since the beginning of the contract’s existence— and increasingly through the centuries, by the original and current ‘management’.  Now, of course, there are many genuine, authentic and meaningful marriages on this planet!  Thank goodness!!

This is a case of guileless, unscrupulous nerve, and a case of untethered avarice and delusional feelings of celebrity entitlement.  I’d like to thank the “happy couple” for making marriage look ridiculous and meaningless, getting away with it and making, one could imagine, a fortune.  Way to go.”

 But just like marriages, nothing lasts forever. The hoopla will subside and fade but will the lasting effects to the term marriage ever be the same? 

Dee Newell told eWedNewz,”I have mixed feelings about the Kardashian Wedding/Divorce. I think everyone surrounding the affair benefited and got a ton of PR for it. However, let’s not forget that the term ‘Hollywood Marriage” was not coined by the Kardashian’s (even though, like the Baldwin’s, there are enough of them to have that impact). I think the big difference now is that everyone & their mother have a reality show and they are under a microscope. This will be old news in a couple of weeks.”

According to some WWC members the emotional part of marriage is already bruised and battered, as most high-profile celebrities cash in. Traditionally, too many members of the wedding industry that were able to cash in on platinum events have less control than ever before, as couples take more control of both the wedding– and the divorce– leaving the growing number of wedding businesses with less chance of scoring big. More than ever consumers are empowered with information and are aware of wedding vendors that are on the hunt for unsuspecting couples wanting to over-charge them for goods and services. 

WWC member,Chris Jaeger, said, “It’s sad to see what is happening and it hurts the industry as a whole. Not like it isn’t already stumbling around with a couple black eyes. In many cases it’s all about the big “money grab” and not about what this really should be all about – helping people plan and have a very special life event and in doing so creating a value exchange. There are still people out there doing that and that is their mission, but the crap I’m seeing like:

“Are you wondering how to get brides off of your social media accounts and into your bank account?” (what the heck does that even mean?)

“Double your wedding business in 12 months” (yes, always easy to do if you made $1,500.00 last year, but what if you did $3.2MM last year? I don’t think so…)

“Want to make more money in the wedding business?” (yes, and if I act today will you double my order and throw in the omega-3 fish oil tablets for free?).

“How to generate a six figure income by reaching more high-end brides…”

“Put your sales on auto-pilot…” (here’s a link that comes in handy after trying this)

“Effortless bridal marketing…”

“How to outsmart Google and get top ranked…” (this is my all-time favorite, yes – like you or I can outsmart dozens, if not HUNDREDS, of the smartest people on the planet who are working on the Google algorithm 24/7/365.”

 For the “Kardashians” the honeymoon may be over. For the wedding business understanding their customer has only begun.

 

eWedNewz

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2011

Filed Under: Celebrity, divorce, eWedNewz, General News, Social Media, wedding industry, Wedding Water Cooler Tagged: , , , , , , , , , ,

Technical Tricks and Cheap Labor Blamed for Struggling U.S Wedding Vendors

Posted on October 31, 2011 Written by 3 Comments

By Paul Pannone

The top story last week involving cutbacks and layoffs at Martha Stewart set off discussions in all areas of the wedding business including the Wedding Water Cooler. Members gave statements both privately and publicly in Social Media forums giving their opinions of why the wedding business is in such disrepair. Many agreed with calling the wedding business the Golden Goose, feeling it’s being used as a temporary fix by unemployed carpetbaggers. Some went further to say the wedding industry is being choked to death by several other key factors that include cheap labor and technicalities.

Wedding analyst, Christine Boulton, said she was shocked at the reports surrounding Martha Stewart. “This just blows my mind. For years now the only Wedding publication that wasn’t on the decline was MSW. I guess that was just smoke and mirrors too.”

Boulton is strong proponent against fairy dust tackling every fallacy from All You Need is Face Book to the wedding industry itself being recession proof . Currently Boulton is involved in a campaign that tries to focus on problems beyond the wedding industry. But Boulton is getting help from her fellow Wedding Water Cooler friends, keeping a close eye on the wedding business.

 

Jacqueline Johnson sits on the board of Caribbean countries and watches how perfectly legal maneuvering diverts business from one portion of the wedding market to another.

 

 

Wedding Expert, Jacqueline Johnson of Marry Caribbean, gave a strong statement saying, “Thanks for always being on target with the state of the bridal industry and the number of service providers who are looking to build a business in this category. Even large companies are looking at this market hoping to make even more money – Cunard is taking all three ships out of Britain and registering in Bermuda just to capitalize on the Destination Wedding Market. Under the British flag they cannot perform weddings at sea, but with Bermuda registry this can be done. According to them, they want to share in the lucrative wedding business.”

Wedding industry sources say they’re competing with a host of problems that include a flood of competition in a shrinking wedding market. But most Americans blame the inability to compete with cheap, offshore labor that manufacturer inferior products.

Pointing a finger at offshore manufacturing, Dyane Bradley told eWNz, ” It doesn’t seem to matter about the quality of what they have to offer. They believe that if they “SLAP BLING” all over it, they will buy! It’s even harder for Jewelry Artist who pour a piece of their soul into each piece they design and create. We have to compete with Gown Designers who use Slave Labor to create their designs because their sales are low.”

eWedNewz is talking to manufacturers that say they’re exploring the possibility of bringing back some lost jobs by hiring domestic companies to make a small portion of products here in the United States. Some admit it is a stretch, due in part to the higher costs. But it’s a start and far cry from the exodus of manufacturing to China in the late 1990′s.

 

 

 

eWedNewz

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2011

Filed Under: Anti Fairy Dust, bridal, Bridal Dresses, Bridal Magazines, Bridal Shops, Current Events, Economic news, General News, Social Media, Travel, wedding industry, Wedding Water Cooler Tagged: , , , , , , , , , ,

Class, Classy or Classic? Kim Kardashian vs. Kate Middleton

Posted on September 8, 2011 Written by 2 Comments

By Paul Pannone

Growing debate of whether reality shows have class or are classy spills over to product use and how they’re viewed by consumers. Recent verification that television viewers are attracted to reality shows sparks a closer look at what people actually want, instead of what store owners want to sell them.

Subjective, personal views given by wedding vendors wanting to return to “class” when new ideas and changes cane be “classy” are debated. What is class? What is Classy?

The definition of class according to Dictionary.com says showing stylish excellence. Classy is defined as elegant; stylish. The fine line between the two leaves much room for opinion, debate, etc, but also puts the real power into what the consumer wants– not the filtered information store owners want them to see.

eWedNewz watches the changes and listens to wedding veterans that want to return to the “classic” glory days. Many understand those days may be gone forever, while others hope for improvement. But so far, not enough are able to adapt to the changes that have taken place.

 

Class? Classy? Classic? What do you say?

 

Personal opinions of Wedding Water Cooler members varied from conservative to progressive thoughts.

Wendy Hartigan; “The princess.  Classic, classy and quite lovely.”

Christine Boulton; “Is there a question? KATE!!!!”

Kendra Kroll; “That’s like asking what do I like better — grapes or watermelon? The dresses are both beautiful — they are simply chosen to befit each personality and situation.”

Jacqueline Johnson; “Definitely Kim’s.”

Denise Georgiou; ”Depends on the bride, they are both beautiful. My personal preference is Kim’s. It’s a Wow dress.”

Jim Duhe; “Strange that you should ask.  I posted a comment on Bridal Support after reading the story on Huffington Post about the Vera Wang/Kardashian dress on sale at David’s for $1,600.  I was astounded by the number of negative comments about Kardashian, Vera Wang, and the style of the dress.  At the same time, the  Kardashian wedding story ranks among the highest page views on our website.  The people who are making the negative comments on Huffington Post are not the same people who are shopping for wedding dresses.  They’re probably not even in the same age bracket as the average bride.  Therefore, the negative comments are meaningless to Vera Wang, to David’s and to Kim Kardashian.”

Duhe likened the Kardashian/Middleton comparison to how they pertain to other segments of society and commerce, including the men’s formal wear business.

“It’s like the comments about The Situation.  The people who are quick to make negative comments are not your customers.  Therefore, they can say whatever they wish.  Their negative comments are good for business. 

In direct response to your question, I should say that Kate’s gown is my favorite because it’s tasteful and elegant and classy.  Kim’s dress is flashy, sexy, and attention-getting.  I’d want my daughter to wear Kate’s dress.  I’d want to date anyone wearing Kim’s dress,” according to Duhe.

The discussions are expected to continue oh how style is impacted by the Reality of what people want and what decision-makers want them to have. Formal Wear Specialists all over the country say they do not personally like what the Situation stands for but will buy the products because they know that’s where the demand will be.

Robert Brunelle of Main Street formals said, “It’s Jackie vs Marilyn redux. You marry Kate, but you want Kim on the side. Maybe upstairs during the reception, like Sonny Corleone in Godfather I.”

To date images of new 2012 products by Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein and Joseph Abboud posted on the FLOW Fan Page received better than average response. Images involving products by the Situation far exceeded the “normal” interest given to tuxedo products.  

 

 

 eWedNewz

All Rights Reserved

2011

Filed Under: Anti Fairy Dust, bridal, Bridal Dresses, Bridal Magazines, Bridal Shops, Celebrity, Data, eWedNewz, General News, Men's formal wear, Promotions, Publications, retail, Social Media, The Groom, Vera Wang, wedding industry, Wedding planners, Wedding Water Cooler, wedding websites Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Wedding Marketing “Gurus” Flood the Business and give Questionable Information

Posted on August 22, 2011 Written by 2 Comments

 

By Paul Pannone

An increase in the number of complaints involving negative experiences with so-called wedding experts offering advice and charging handsomely arrive, as the economy continues to lumber along. Members of the Wedding Water Cooler say they’re beseeched with email proposals from wedding marketing experts claiming to have the keys to success. Most told eWedNewz the advertisements target newcomers to the wedding business that are just starting out and have no clue of how to proceed.

WWC members agree most advice offered at seminars is basic, common-sense information. Most feel no marketing expert can possibly know a local business as well as an owner that spends their entire day servicing the market. Broad statements designed to touch upon generalities associated with a topic of discussion creates opportunity and a chance to earn a living for the expert that relies on a steady stream of “newbies” entering the market. But what happens when the information given is less than accurate?

Brian Lawrence is a long-time wedding industry spokesperson that bills himself as the “Wedding Wise Guy“.

 

eWedNewz is watching instances where vendors expanded into markets based on information and data they took as Gospel truth– data driven, rather than a guide towards a decision. Market studies given by data sources are deemed fraudulent by vendors that were forced to shut down stores after the business they felt was represented in market reports failed to materialize. But in most cases, general statements in blog postings are dismissed as useless by experts and in rare cases harmful.

One “Wedding Wise Guy” post was spotted by a WWC member and posted in the WWC forum included advice given by Brian Lawrence. “A great source is a trade publication Vows Magazine at www.vowsmag.com. Also to get some marketing ideas you can download my book from blog on http://www.localtrafficbuilder.com. One of the things you may want to focus on upfront is being full service with invitations, accessories and tuxedos (which you can work with a wholesaler and not have to alter or have inventory).

Our expertise and design talent of our company can be a great catalyst by having a website that will help you like you’ve been in business for years and strong visibility on Google. Fortunately Google does not rank businesses by their longevity. We can put you on the map fast,” promises Lawrence.

 Lawrence’s statements were dissected by several of the expert panel including David Fuhrer. Fuhrer is known in the wedding industry for blowing the whistle on wedding websites that he claims are unsustainable as a standalone business. Fuhrer took exception with Lawrence’s statement involving Google.  

“The suggestion that Google’s ranking criteria doesn’t include “longevity” is entirely false. A significant portion of Google’s organic ranking algorithm is predicated upon longevity. I believe what he is suggesting is that an intensive SEO campaign would get a vendor into first-position. It would also cost thousands upon thousands of dollars and take months, if not years to achieve leadership with specific, coveted keyword combinations. Even then you would need the expert of all experts to achieve this.

Perhaps what Lawrence is suggesting is that via SEM (Search Engine Marketing) number one placement could be achieved; and he is correct. It would, however, cost tons of money and it would also result in an artificial ranking “sponsored link”. The last independent study I saw indicated that over seventy-five percent of Google users ignore sponsored links and go direct to the “organic”, “according to Fuhrer.

Other members of the WWC group that build websites also took exception with some of Lawrence’s advice regarding back links and domain procurement, saying the methods are outdated. Some mentioned revisions made to Google systems antiquated the need for certain types of SEO, as the search engine giant ranks information relevancy based on search criteria. 

Jacqueline Johnson told eWNz,” The cost of entry and to announce that one is an expert in anything these days is next to nothing. But on further examination, people that have little or no time experience in the business are quickly exposed for what they really are. It’s then that the true expert– with decades of knowledge under their belt– rise to the top. I too am very wary of the number of self-proclaimed wedding gurus coming into the business and spouting harmful information to unsuspecting newcomers.”   

 eWedNewz continues to watch so-called wedding experts that provide less than accurate information or claim to have the key to success.

 

eWedNewz

All Rights Reserved

2011

Filed Under: Anti Fairy Dust, Data, General News, Invitations, Men's formal wear, Social Media, wedding industry, Wedding Water Cooler, wedding websites Tagged: , , , , , , , , ,
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