Sharlane and I met at her house, a cute little home in north Seattle. Stepping in, I thought I was in Hotel 1000 or something - the decor throughout was tasteful, modern, and oh so cute. Over a cup of tea and fresh madelines we talked about 'Urban Unveiled'.
Rebekah: Sharlane, tell me about 'Urban Unveiled'.
Sharlane: 'Urban Unveiled' is a cocktail party that partners all the vendors together, giving everyone a hand in planning the event, that we present to brides and grooms. Couples come to our event to have fun, meet the best wedding vendors in Seattle, and get great ideas for their wedding. All the vendors are pre-screened. The venue we hold this at is decorated with the latest ideas, not the old stand by's. It's great food, an incredible fashion show, and talking with all-around great vendors. These are people who are great innovators and good people to work with.
Rebekah: How long have you been doing 'Urban Unveiled'?
Sharlane: Our very first event was in March of 2007. We had two last year in February and October, and we've decided to have our third event this October, and we'll keep it a fall event here on out.
Rebekah: What type of bride comes to 'Urban Unveiled'?
Sharlane: The tickets aren't cheap, $45 at the door and $75 for our VIP tickets. The bride who comes to this event is someone who expects she'll have to pay for good quality. She's hiring the best of Seattle. Regardless of the budget, she wants something extra special. Mainly, we attract brides that are shopping for quality.
Rebekah: How long is this event?
Sharlane: It's a one-day event. We start out with a VIP hour where VIP guests have exclusive time with the vendors, really get some great one-on-one time. At 6 we have general admission, and we go until 10. We average about 550 guests, and expect 750 this year.
Rebekah: What's your theme this year?
Sharlane: Well...we're still debating. I'd love to revisit the Marie Antoinette theme, but I think we'll end up doing South Beach Urban Chic.
Rebekah: You mentioned VIP tickets and a VIP hour. What's the whole VIP package?
Sharlane: In addition to early admittance, we also supply VIP guests with butler valet marking, and an incredible swag bag. Last year's swag bag had cake plates, wine, earrings, lots of good stuff. It's totally worth getting a VIP ticket.
Rebekah: Is this event catered?
Sharlane: Oh yes! This year Tom Douglas is catering. Last year we had three caterers, including Wolfgang Puck.
Rebekah: You say "we" a lot. Who makes up the "we"?
Sharlane: At the heart of everything is the group of us that started this and spearhead the event every year: me, Sharlane Chase Photography, and Jessie and Travis of True Colors Events.
Rebekah: Overall, how many vendors do you have at the event?
Sharlane: About 50. We try to limit the number of folks in each category to 4 businesses.
Rebekah: And how can we all get tickets to this incredible event?
Sharlane: Tickets go on sale in September, and we sell out fast. Keep an eye on our website for the latest info on ticket sales.
For more information on Sharlane Chase and her photography business, check out her website. For more information on 'Urban Unveiled', check out their website.
And enjoy these wonderful pictures from previous 'Urban Unveiled' wedding shows.
Happy planning!
Rebekah Ross
Weddings and Events
