SUNNY DAYS EVENTS & RENTALS
  • Wedding & Event Services
    • Local Bridal Packages >
      • Coordination Wedding Package >
        • Coordination Intake Form
        • Event Intake Form
      • Planning Packages
      • A la Carte Services
    • Elopement Packages >
      • Simple Weddings
      • Glacier Weddings
      • Garden Wedding
      • Mountain Wedding
      • Skater's Cabin Wedding
      • Beach Wedding
    • Festivals
    • Corporate Events
  • Rent Online
    • Online Ordering FAQ >
      • Delivery FAQ
      • Rental FAQ
    • Dishes
    • Tents, tables, chairs
    • Linens
    • Vases
    • Decor
    • Lights
    • Flowers
    • Backyard Parties
    • Misc
    • Bundles
  • About Us
    • Jessica K. Miller
    • Beverly Billingsly
    • YouTube
    • Blog
    • Gallery/Testimonials
  • Contact Us
  • Charity Request
  • Reviews
  • Short Notice WIshlist Form
  • Clients

Event Planning in Southeast Alaska: What Makes It Different

6/29/2026

0 Comments

 
Planning an event anywhere takes coordination, creativity, and a little bit of luck. But planning an event in Southeast Alaska? That’s a whole different adventure.
At Sunny Days Events, we’ve spent over a decade helping clients navigate the terrain, the weather, and the quirks that make this region so special. Here’s what sets Southeast Alaska apart—and how we help you plan for it.


🌧️ 1. The Weather Is Always a Factor
Rain isn’t just a possibility—it’s a lifestyle. Even in summer, you can expect mist, drizzle, or full-on sideways rain. That means:
  • Tents need to be secured and weighted
  • Sidewalls and waterproof gear are essential
  • Backup plans aren’t optional—they’re standard


We’ve seen it all, and we plan for it all. Because the only predictable thing about the weather is its unpredictability.




🪵 2. The Terrain Is Wild and Wonderful
From mossy lawns to gravel driveways and sloped backyards, Southeast Alaska’s terrain is rarely flat or paved. That affects everything from layout to setup.
  • Tables and chairs may need leveling
  • Flooring or mats can help stabilize soft ground
  • Delivery access can be tricky—especially in remote or forested venues


We know how to work with the land, not against it.




🚐 3. Logistics Require Local Know-How
With limited infrastructure, tight delivery windows, and venues like Glacier Gardens or cruise ship docks, timing and coordination are everything.
  • Some venues have only one loading door
  • Setup and teardown windows can be very short
  • Vendor arrival order matters (yes, the caterer should be last!)


We’ve built strong relationships with local pros—and we know how to choreograph a smooth setup.




💬 4. DIY Culture Is Strong
Juneau couples are famously hands-on. Many choose to coordinate their own weddings or enlist friends and family instead of hiring professionals. We respect that—but we also advocate for smart support.
  • Every wedding should have some form of management
  • Friends and family should be celebrating, not troubleshooting
  • We offer checklists, timelines, and coordination services to help your day run smoothly


You don’t have to do it all alone—and you shouldn’t have to.




💛 5. Community Is Everything
Southeast Alaska is tight-knit. Vendors know each other, venues have history, and events often feel like reunions. That means:
  • Collaboration is key
  • Flexibility is expected
  • Relationships matter more than rigid rules


We’re proud to be part of this community—and to support events that reflect its heart.




💬 Final Thought
Event planning in Southeast Alaska is different. It’s wetter, wilder, and more personal. At Sunny Days Events, we embrace those differences—and we help you turn them into strengths.
Planning a celebration in Juneau or beyond?
Let us help you navigate the terrain, the timing, and the teamwork that make Southeast Alaska unforgettable.


Because we love many Sunny Days and many Events—even the ones with mossy paths, misty skies, and a whole lot of heart.

0 Comments

Our Favorite Local Florists and Why We Love Them

6/22/2026

0 Comments

 
In Southeast Alaska, flowers are more than decoration—they’re a celebration of life, love, and the fleeting beauty of the seasons. At Sunny Days Events, we’ve had the joy of working with several talented florists in Juneau, each with their own style, strengths, and magic.
While we have a soft spot for Martha’s Flowers, we also love collaborating with Frenchie’s Flowers—and we’re grateful to have both in our creative circle.
Here’s why we adore them.


🌸 Martha’s Flowers: A Legacy of Elegance
Owned by Deborah, the granddaughter of the original Martha, this shop carries forward a tradition of thoughtful, artful floral design. Martha’s Flowers is our longtime favorite for weddings, memorials, and styled shoots.
Why we love them:
  • Deborah’s arrangements are intentional and elegant
  • She blends native greenery with seasonal blooms effortlessly
  • Her work feels grounded in Southeast Alaska—natural, refined, and quietly stunning


We trust her instincts, admire her artistry, and love how she brings our event themes to life.




🌼 Frenchie’s Flowers: Bold, Lush, and Full of Heart
Frenchie’s Flowers brings a vibrant energy to every arrangement. Her designs are expressive and full of personality—perfect for clients who want florals that make a statement.
Why we love her work:
  • Rich color palettes and dramatic textures
  • Creative use of vessels and accessories
  • A joyful, collaborative spirit that makes planning fun


Her work adds warmth and flair to any space—and we love seeing her vision come to life.




🌿 Why We Work With Both
Every event is different—and so is every client. That’s why we’re proud to work with both Martha’s and Frenchie’s, depending on the style, season, and story behind the celebration.
Whether you’re dreaming of wildflower whimsy or classic elegance, we’ll help you choose the florist who fits your vision best—and make sure the florals feel cohesive, intentional, and unforgettable.


💬 Final Thought
We’re lucky to have such talented floral artists in Juneau. At Sunny Days Events, we believe flowers should reflect the heart of your event—and with Martha’s and Frenchie’s in our corner, they always do.
Planning a wedding or event in Southeast Alaska?
Let us help you choose the perfect florist and build a floral story that’s as unique as you are.


Because we love many Sunny Days and many Events—even the ones with peonies, pine, and a whole lot of personality.

0 Comments

How to Keep Guests Comfortable in Unpredictable Weather

6/15/2026

0 Comments

 
Planning an outdoor event in Southeast Alaska means embracing nature’s beauty—and preparing for its unpredictability. Rain, wind, chilly evenings, and sudden shifts in temperature are all part of the experience. But with the right strategy, your guests can stay cozy, dry, and delighted no matter what the skies decide.
At Sunny Days Events & Rentals, we specialize in creating safe, stylish, and weather-ready environments. Here’s how we help you keep guests comfortable—without compromising safety or your budget.


🏕️ Start With the Right Tent
We use commercial-grade West Coast Frame Tents and High Peak Frame Tents that meet ARA tenting standards—designed to withstand Southeast Alaska’s wind, rain, and even snow. These tents provide sturdy shelter and can be customized with:
  • Sidewalls (clear or solid) to block wind and rain
  • Flooring options to keep feet dry and stable
  • Covered walkways for smooth transitions between spaces
A well-installed tent is your first line of defense against unpredictable weather.


🧣 Encourage Guests to Dress Smart
Let guests know in advance that the event is outdoors and weather-dependent. Encourage layers, waterproof shoes, and warm accessories like shawls, jackets, or blankets.


We can help you craft a friendly “What to Wear” guide for your invitations or website.




🔥 About Heaters: What You Need to Know
We do not rent heaters for use under tents, and here’s why:
  • Standard propane patio heaters produce CO₂, which can be dangerous in enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces
  • They can damage vinyl tent canopies due to heat exposure
  • They’re often cost-prohibitive for many clients
But we won’t leave you in the cold. We’ll help you source safe, appropriate heaters from trusted vendors who understand the safety requirements of tented events.


⚡ What About Electric Heaters?
Electric heaters can be a safer alternative under certain conditions—but they come with their own considerations:
  • They don’t emit CO₂, making them safer for enclosed spaces
  • They require stable power sources, which may not be available at all venues
  • They must be placed carefully to avoid overheating tent materials or creating trip hazards


We’ll help you assess your venue’s electrical capacity and recommend heater types that are safe, effective, and compliant with tenting standards.




🧺 Add Cozy Touches
Small details go a long way in keeping guests warm and happy:
  • Blanket baskets for guests to grab and snuggle
  • Hot drink stations with coffee, cider, or cocoa
  • Warm lighting like string lights and lanterns for ambiance
  • Wind-blocking decor like fabric draping or greenery walls
We’ll help you style your space with comfort in mind.


🧭 Build a Flexible Timeline
Weather can shift quickly, so we build buffer time into your schedule and create contingency plans for ceremony locations, photo sessions, and vendor setup. If the forecast changes, we pivot—calmly and professionally.


Our team monitors weather patterns and adjusts layouts in real time to keep your event flowing smoothly.




💬 Final Thought
Unpredictable weather doesn’t have to mean unpredictable stress. With the right tent, thoughtful planning, and expert support, your guests will stay comfortable—and your event will shine. At Sunny Days Events & Rentals, we’re here to help you embrace the elements and celebrate with confidence.
Planning an outdoor event in Southeast Alaska?
Let’s build a weather-ready experience your guests will love—rain or shine.
0 Comments

How to Build a Wedding Timeline That Actually Works

6/8/2026

0 Comments

 
A wedding timeline isn’t just a schedule—it’s the backbone of your entire day. It keeps vendors aligned, guests informed, and you relaxed enough to actually enjoy the moment. But too often, timelines are either too rigid or too vague, leaving couples scrambling or stressed.
At Sunny Days Events & Rentals, we’ve coordinated hundreds of weddings across Southeast Alaska, and we know what works. Here’s how to build a timeline that’s flexible, functional, and totally you.


🧭 Start With Your Ceremony Time
Everything revolves around this. Once you’ve locked in your ceremony start time, you can work backward and forward to build the rest of your day.
Pro Tip: If you’re planning an outdoor ceremony in Juneau, consider the light, tides, and weather patterns. We’ll help you choose a time that maximizes comfort and beauty.


💄 Build in Prep Time—Generously
Hair, makeup, dressing, and photos take longer than you think. Add buffer time so you’re not rushed.
  • Hair & makeup: 2–3 hours
  • Getting dressed: 30–45 minutes
  • First look or pre-ceremony photos: 1 hour
  • Travel to venue: Add 15–30 minutes depending on location


📸 Plan for Photos (Before or After)
Decide whether you want a first look and pre-ceremony photos, or if you’ll do portraits after the ceremony. Either way, block off time for:
  • Couple portraits
  • Wedding party photos
  • Family group shots
We’ll help coordinate with your photographer to keep things flowing.


🥂 Reception Flow Matters
A typical reception includes:
  • Cocktail hour: 1 hour
  • Dinner service: 1–1.5 hours
  • Toasts: 20–30 minutes
  • First dance + parent dances: 20 minutes
  • Cake cutting: 15 minutes
  • Open dancing: Until the end!
We’ll help you decide what traditions to include—and where to trim if needed.


🌧️ Always Include Buffer Time
In Southeast Alaska, weather delays and transportation hiccups happen. Build in 10–15 minute cushions between major events so you don’t feel rushed.


At Sunny Days Events, we always include contingency plans in our timelines—because peace of mind is priceless.




📝 Share Your Timeline With Everyone
Once it’s finalized, make sure your vendors, wedding party, and family have a copy. We’ll distribute it and walk everyone through the flow so there are no surprises.


💬 Final Thought
A great timeline is realistic, flexible, and built around your priorities. Whether you want a slow-paced day full of quiet moments or a high-energy celebration with nonstop action, we’ll help you build a schedule that works—and feels good.
Ready to create a wedding day that flows beautifully from start to finish?
Let Sunny Days Events & Rentals guide you every step of the way.
0 Comments

Baby Showers, Birthdays & Beyond: Planning Non-Wedding Events

6/1/2026

0 Comments

 
At Sunny Days Events, we love many Sunny Days and many Events—and that means more than just weddings. From baby showers and birthdays to memorials, fundraisers, and corporate retreats, we bring the same care, creativity, and coordination to every kind of gathering.
If you’re planning a celebration that’s not a wedding, here’s how we help make it seamless, meaningful, and uniquely yours.


👶 Baby Showers & Gender Reveals
Whether you’re celebrating a new arrival or revealing a surprise, we help you create a cozy, joyful space that feels personal and welcoming.
We offer:
  • Tents and tables for backyard or venue setups
  • Dishware and drinkware for brunches or tea parties
  • Soft styling elements like draping, signage, and themed decor
  • Coordination with caterers, florists, and photographers


Want a Pinterest-worthy setup without the stress? We’ve got you covered.




🎂 Birthdays for All Ages
From first birthdays to milestone celebrations, we help you throw a party that fits your style and your guest list.
We can assist with:
  • Layouts for kids’ parties, adult gatherings, or mixed-age events
  • Rentals for games, food stations, and lounge areas
  • Lighting and decor to match your theme
  • Timeline planning so everything flows smoothly
Whether it’s a backyard bash or a formal dinner, we make it feel effortless.


🕊️ Memorials & Celebrations of Life
These events require sensitivity, flexibility, and thoughtful planning. We help families honor loved ones with grace and care.
We provide:
  • Quiet, respectful setup and breakdown
  • Seating arrangements for indoor or outdoor services
  • Coordination with venues, speakers, and musicians
  • Support with layout, signage, and guest flow


Our goal is to create a space that feels comforting, dignified, and personal.




🏢 Corporate Events & Retreats
Need help planning a team-building day, fundraiser, or community event? We bring structure and style to professional gatherings.
We offer:
  • Tent and equipment rentals for outdoor venues
  • Dishware, linens, and furniture for formal or casual setups
  • Vendor coordination and timeline management
  • On-site support to keep things running smoothly
We know how to balance logistics with hospitality—so your team can focus on connection.


💬 Final Thought
At Sunny Days Events, we believe every celebration deserves expert care—whether it’s a wedding, a baby shower, or a backyard birthday. With over 15 years of experience in Southeast Alaska, we know how to plan for the weather, the terrain, and the heart of your event.
Planning something special?
Let Sunny Days Events help you celebrate it beautifully.


Because we love many Sunny Days and many Events!

0 Comments

    Author

    Jessica Miller is a mother of two with a passion for creating meaningful events—for her own family and for the Juneau community. While many of these blog posts are now AI-generated, every topic is handpicked and personally reviewed by Jessica to ensure they reflect her values, experience, and local insight

    Archives

    September 2026
    August 2026
    July 2026
    June 2026
    May 2026
    April 2026
    March 2026
    February 2026
    January 2026
    December 2025
    November 2025
    October 2025
    September 2025
    September 2018
    August 2018
    August 2015
    August 2014
    June 2014
    March 2014
    December 2013
    November 2013
    October 2013
    September 2013
    August 2013
    July 2013
    June 2013
    May 2013
    August 2012
    June 2012
    December 2011
    August 2010
    August 2009
    November 2008

    Categories

    All
    Activity
    Adventure
    Alaska
    Anniversary
    Art
    Autumn
    Bachelorette
    Beach
    Birthday
    Cars
    Caterer
    Ceremony
    Christmas
    Confirmation
    Coordinating
    Elope To Alaska
    Fairy
    Fundraiser
    Garden
    Glacier Wedding
    Halloween
    Helicopter
    Juneau
    Mardi Gras
    Minnie
    Mother Goose
    Neverland
    Painting
    Party
    Photography
    Pink
    Planner
    Planning
    Reception
    Rentals
    Shower
    Tent
    Underwater
    Vendors
    Venue
    Wedding
    Winter

    RSS Feed

Powered by Create your own unique website with customizable templates.
  • Wedding & Event Services
    • Local Bridal Packages >
      • Coordination Wedding Package >
        • Coordination Intake Form
        • Event Intake Form
      • Planning Packages
      • A la Carte Services
    • Elopement Packages >
      • Simple Weddings
      • Glacier Weddings
      • Garden Wedding
      • Mountain Wedding
      • Skater's Cabin Wedding
      • Beach Wedding
    • Festivals
    • Corporate Events
  • Rent Online
    • Online Ordering FAQ >
      • Delivery FAQ
      • Rental FAQ
    • Dishes
    • Tents, tables, chairs
    • Linens
    • Vases
    • Decor
    • Lights
    • Flowers
    • Backyard Parties
    • Misc
    • Bundles
  • About Us
    • Jessica K. Miller
    • Beverly Billingsly
    • YouTube
    • Blog
    • Gallery/Testimonials
  • Contact Us
  • Charity Request
  • Reviews
  • Short Notice WIshlist Form
  • Clients