It’s been a couple of months since we welcomed 2021 and the Pantone Color Institute, a leading source of color expertise, has taken up, once again, its annual task of forecasting the color that will best reflect the year ahead. This year and for the second time ever, the authority on color has revealed not one, but two shades for its 2021 color of the year – Ultimate Gray and Illuminating – an optimistic hue of yellow!

The institute’s decision to name two seemingly unrelated shades as the collective color of 2021 is a response to the tumultuous year that 2020 was. Illuminating and Ultimate Gray come together to create a uniquely harmonious blend of warmth and dependability, a marriage of color that, as described by the institute, “expresses a message of strength and hopefulness that is both enduring and uplifting”.

On the one hand, Illuminating is a bright and cheerful yellow sparkling with vivacity; on the other hand, Ultimate Gray is the perfect neutral, a solid shade that provides a firm foundation. Reminiscent of the glorious sunshine, yellow conveys a message of happiness, it is aspirational and gives us hope. Ultimate Gray, the color of pebbles on the beach, is quietly reassuring and supportive, encouraging feelings of composure, steadiness, and resilience. This union of strength and positivity, this message of hope supported by fortitude, is essential to the human spirit after all the challenges we have been through.

We love the strong statement this color combination makes and we’re filled with enthusiasm about incorporating it into our 2021 events. Whether you’re planning a bespoke intimate celebration such as a wedding, a baptism, or a luxury dinner party or reunion party on a yacht, you can’t go wrong with bold and invigorating splashes of yellow, bursting through a soothing gray color scheme. Of course, yellow and gray can be accentuated with other color trends such as navy blue, teal, or peachy pink; it is the perfect combination for more relaxed events – which are the next ‘big thing’ for 2021.

Emboldening the spirit, the pairing of Ultimate Gray and Illuminating highlights inspires regeneration, pressing us forward toward new ways of thinking and concepts. There are so many chic ways to incorporate it at your event in Greece! At MILI LO, we always use sleek pairings and color palettes to reflect your individual style and personality, and we always work with you one-on-one to handpick your event colors and accents.

When planning a big event, there’s undoubtedly a lot to think about – no matter where the event date falls on the calendar. Yet, if it happens to be amid the coronavirus outbreak, you might be stressing (that much more than usual) and wondering what you should do and how to prepare for the potential that your plans will be affected.

These are unprecedented times and whether you’re finalizing a wedding party, looking ahead to bespoke intimate events like your child’s baptism or organizing a corporate party you should take a step back, relax, and consider adjusting your plans. We understand that this may be a challenge for you, however, you should know that experienced event planners are very familiar with developing contingency plans. At MILI LO we are always 100% beside our guests in order to help them with their every need, including postponing and rescheduling important life events.

If you’re trying to manage your stress, here are a couple simple things to help you through the process of what to do next.

Speak With Your Vendors

Your vendors are professionals and they can provide guidance on the next steps, as well as let you know what alternative options might exist. Review all your vendor contracts thoroughly so that you are informed, and then schedule online meetings with them as soon as possible to discuss the details.

In order to have a fruitful conversation with them, remember to be flexible and approach the situation calmly. Explore all the alternatives and instead of immediately canceling your event, talk to your vendors about the potential of postponing the date. Let them know that your goal is still to keep the plans as they were and just shift the date – this will save you a lot of time and money in the long run. Of course, if you are working with a local event planner, then these details are handled by them on your behalf.

Inform Your Guests

No matter what you eventually decide, your guests need to be in the know. If you are postponing the event, the easiest and most effective way to relay your message is via your event website; other communication options include email and telephone calls. If you were planning a destination event, this means your guests have already made plans to be there, including perhaps renting hotel rooms, buying flight tickets, etc. In this case, you want to take the burden off of them, so if the hotel was part of a group rate that was priorly negotiated then we recommend reaching out to the hotel to request a full or partial refund on behalf of your guests. At the time this blog was created, all non-essential flights entering Greece have been banned by law and thus you should be entitled to a full refund.

Postpone Or Prepare For A Bare Minimum Of Guests

A destination event in Greece is not currently possible during the current Coronavirus measures enforced by law, but depending on your location you may still be able to host a very small and intimate event. Although we would encourage you to postpone your event in Greece to a later date, should you choose to host an event in your home country, remember that it is wise for people not to congregate in large groups; consider making arrangements for only the individuals absolutely necessary for the event to take place. We urge you to take matters seriously and consider postponing your event. Coming to grips with the reality of the global situation is difficult, but step back, take a deep breath and remember that life’s special moments can happen just a little bit later.

We understand that the Coronavirus outbreak is a fluid, rapidly changing situation but with some flexibility, patience, and a little compromise, your wonderfully unique event can still take place – at a later date.

Once you’re ready to begin planning your event, we’ll be here for you! Get in touch with us anytime and we will help make your event in Greece a dream come true!

There are so many wonderful reasons to visit Greece and a romantic escape with your significant other is definitely one of them! Whether you’re planning a luxury marriage proposal in Athens or Santorini, honeymooning, or simply celebrating your love, the country that worshipped the gods of love and beauty has a romantic destination for every occasion! Most of them, especially the popular ones like Paros, Santorini, Mykonos, Athens, and the Peloponnese, offer luxurious hotels, villas or rental apartments, ideal to host your private moments!

At MILI LO we are here to help you elevate your experience by designing the most romantic suite to perfectly match your special occasion!

Your Suite

When booking your suite, be sure that your room has a large balcony or terrace with a view. Is there anything more magical than being able to enjoy stunning sea vistas, gorgeous mountain views or even watch the Acropolis light up against the night sky? This way you and your partner can sit back, relax and not feel pressured to go out and about exploring – you have everything you need exactly where you are. It is your romantic holiday in Greece after all!

Before booking, be sure to ask if your suite includes indoor or outdoor seating, so that you can have a nice setup for your decor, dinner, and drinks. Additionally, many suites in Greece have a private jacuzzi or pool, so if it’s within budget, this is something that we highly recommend. A good soak in the hot tub will have great benefits both for your wellness and your relationship.

Suite Decor

Now that you know what to look for when booking your suite, you can start thinking about the décor. Don’t think too much though! We know that you have so many other details to worry about, so, leave all the brainstorming to us. We would be more than happy to handle all the arrangements in order to create the wow factor your partner deserves! Here are a couple of simple and all-time classic ideas to get you into the mood: 

Flowers Are A Must – First of all, flowers are extremely important. Flowers not only create a romantic setting, but they add a fresh fragrance to your room. We can place several bouquets of roses – or whatever your partner’s favorite flowers are – into vases and display them in selected areas or we can scatter flower petals all over the place. This will certainly be the beginning of making your arrival an extra special surprise.

The Lights – In addition to flowers, having fairy lights and led candles placed around your room can really create an exceptionally romantic and fairytale-ish atmosphere. We can have candles set all over your suite starting from the hallway as you enter your room, some in the main bedroom area, outside on the balcony or terrace, on the floor and tables and even some in the bathroom. For an even more magical atmosphere, be sure to keep your lights off and enjoy your evening with just the warm light from the fairy lights and candles and the stars, or even the twinkling city lights if you’re in Athens. The timelessly elegant combination of candles and flowers will make your suite look utterly beautiful – a real dream come true!

Add Scents For More Romance – Since hotel rooms don’t necessarily have the most romantic scents, choose your favorite scent that will surely turn your suite into a romantic paradise and we will place scented candles and incense sticks everywhere – this is a great way to add some mysticism to the mix!

It may not take much imagination and effort for somebody to decorate the ‘old-fashioned’ way. However, at MILI LO, we will always come up with an original and stylish twist, something more tailor-made and creative that will reflect your own unique personality. This is our favorite part of design and styling and this is definitely what will make your partner feel extra special and allow you to experience the ultimate romance in Greece!

Dinner & Drinks

Upon arrival at your private suite, having a nice bottle of champagne or sparkling wine – or even your favorite drink of choice – is a great way to toast to your romantic holiday in Greece. Although many hotels provide this as a ‘welcome service’, having MILI LO personalize your room upon arrival means that we will carefully designed and set-up your suite so that it fulfills all of your wishes and expectations and why not exceed them?

Dinner is also an important aspect of your romantic date! If your hotel does not offer in-room dining, there are many restaurants or traditional tavernas in Greece that offer takeaway food You can either choose what to eat and have it delivered, or have MILI LO make these arrangements ahead of time with special details settled such as tailor-made menu designs, hand-picked fine china plates, and crystal glassware to suit your style, theme, and personality. Rest assured we will prepare a wonderfully romantic fine dining experience in the comfort of your very own suite.

Start your romantic holiday in Greece on a romantic note with flowers, lighting, fine dining, and an incredible view. Get in touch with us and let’s make your dream a reality!

It’s the beginning of a brand new year and we certainly live in a whole different world than we did at the dawn of 2020. Last year has been unprecedented for all of us and, along the way, it brought drastic changes to many things, including the event industry.
So, what new trends have emerged and what does the event industry anticipate for the year ahead? This blog dives into 2021’s major event trends, with an extra little focus on weddings!

#1 Relaxed & Informal

The pandemic and corresponding restrictions on crowd sizes has naturally brought a rise in small events. Whether it’s a wedding dinner, a baptism or any other celebration, having a large guest list is no longer trendy; small and more informal gatherings are at the top of the event trend list for 2021. If you want to celebrate a special occasion you can do so just as memorably in a more intimate and meaningful fashion, inviting only your nearest and dearest. This trend has become extremely popular, especially when it comes to weddings, with what’s being referred to as a micro wedding, which include no more than 20-25 people.

#2 Wedding Now, Party Later

A brand new wedding trend that will surely define 2021 is the ‘wed now, party later’. Fuelled by event restrictions, this new age concept will have couples saying their vows and becoming Mr & Mrs as soon as possible, but saving a date in the future to host a big guest list celebration!

#3 Extended Celebrations

With intimate events on the rise, couples are looking for unique ways to impress their smaller guest list, and what better way to do so than celebrating for a little (or a lot!) longer? A consistently growing trend is the ‘extended celebration,’ which means that your special event is set over a longer period, be it a weekend or even a whole week, rather than just a day!

#4 Personal & Fully Customized

Originality is trendier than ever, and this means giving your own personal touch to your special event. Bringing out your unique style and personality in your event is a must-do, and people are constantly searching for ways to achieve this originality. Areas such as food and drink are becoming more personalized, from signature cocktails to custom made cakes, while tailor-made favors and handmade invitations are becoming ever popular.

#5 Eco-friendly & Sustainable Events

Adopting an eco-conscious lifestyle has become, now more than ever, vital, and more and more people are trying to be eco-friendly in different areas of their lives, including the events they host. So what does it mean to host responsibly? It means cutting back on unnecessary waste and trying to be as environmentally friendly as possible. And how can you achieve this? Choosing sustainable venues, upcycling, or going plastic-free on your big day are just a few ways to make your event more ‘green friendly.’

#6 Destination Weddings

Destination wedding getaways have already been popular for quite some time, and we definitely don’t see this trend slowing down in 2021. Although it may seem a bit hopeful with global travel still being questionable, it’s anticipated that within 2021 there will be a dramatic increase in destination weddings. In fact, the trend is likely to be about combining the pre-wedding party, the actual wedding, and the honeymoon into one extravagant trip abroad. Just think of it, you and your loved ones enjoying all of your wedding events in a dreamy destination!

Overall Event Decor Trends For 2021

When it comes to decor, one of the clear trends for 2021 is the inclusion of luscious greenery, be it ferns, succulents, or garlands of eucalyptus, they all make for a fresh and natural look and feel. Hanging flower decorations will also be a huge hit this year; think, for example, of a table setting with a lush floral chandelier using colored baby’s breath blossoms suspended above table settings. 2021 will also continue to see the use of acrylic, impressive balloon setups, giant paper flowers, asymmetrical floral centrepieces as well and neon letter signs which have been popping up all over the place!

As for color, we can expect to see 2021’s Pantone colors of ultimate gray and illuminating yellow, two warm and comforting hues that form an optimistic color combination. Other 2021 colors include teal, mocha, rosy peach, and smoky white.

Whatever the trends though, don’t forget that every event is unique and a reflection of your true self! Share your event vision with us and together we will make your dream come true.

Valentine’s Day, also known as St. Valentine’s Day, has been a day for nurturing romance since the 14th century. Every year on February the 14th, lovers, friends and family express their love for one another by exchanging gifts, cards, and little treats. This holiday is especially popular amongst couples and we think a great way to celebrate is by planning a romantic suite decor and/or a private dinner for two. Below are a few ideas to get you thinking about planning a romantic dinner with your loved one with your own personal style!

The Dinner Menu

Cooking for a romantic private dinner is not an easy task so it’s important to have your menu prepared beforehand. Your dinner should include a special Valentine’s Day drink, an appetizer, a main course, and of course, the most important part of the evening, dessert! Here are some delicious ideas for your menu:

Drinks

What would the international day of love be without a toast to you and your loved one!? For wine lovers, we suggest rose or red wine (we like Agiorgitiko, a red variety from southern Greece). To make things extra special and festive, gather your ingredients and whip up one of these fancy cocktails like the Blushing Geisha or the Red Lotus.

Appetizers

To stimulate your appetite we recommend a shrimp cocktail served in a martini glass, asparagus wrapped in prosciutto, or grilled figs served with goat cheese and a splash of balsamic vinaigrette.

Main Course

You can’t go wrong with classics like roasted chicken and vegetables or a beef wellington. Of course, if your partner is a vegetarian, spinach and mushroom ravioli is an excellent option as well.

If you prefer not to cook, ordering food from your favorite restaurant or arranging for a chef to create something exceptional and personalized is always a great way to make things a bit easier for yourself. To add a unique personal touch, handwrite your menu so your partner knows what to expect for the evening.

Dessert

Chocolate covered strawberries are always a hit, but we prefer a chocolate cheesecake or a raspberry tart to end the evening on a high note! Do make sure you pick a dessert that you know your partner will absolutely love. After all, Valentine’s Day is all about sweetness!

Setting the Mood

Part of making any type of celebration special and romantic is setting the mood for it. Candlelight is one of the most popular symbols of romance so make sure to place candles everywhere! You can also hang a few strings of fairy lights – which is always an incredibly romantic lighting option. For the dinner table, be sure to have a bouquet of your partner’s favorite flowers, along with your best plates, silverware, wine glasses, and fabric napkins. Music is also a great way to show your special someone that you care about them so make sure that there is a romantic playlist on in the background!

Exchanging Gifts

It is very common for couples to exchange gifts on Valentine’s Day, but it doesn’t have to be anything extravagant or expensive, as long as it’s from the heart. A nice card with a note telling your partner how much you care for them will definitely be memorable and put a smile on their face. You can also find or buy a picture frame and put your favorite picture of the both of you inside; this way, your partner will have something to remember you by on this special day.

As this evening is just about the two of you, enjoy and relax in each other’s company. Turn off your devices and be present in the moment. Undistracted, you can really appreciate this wonderful person in your life and share a romantic evening, just the two of you!

We are always full of extra LOVEly and creative ideas. Get in touch with us to plan, design and decorate a perfect romantic setting and let us make your Valentine fall feel full of genuine love!