Thankful Diva

You just broke the heel of your brand new pair of Cole Haan’s, while the turkey needs basting and your husband just won’t pull himself away from the idiot tube for one second to let in your ever so wonderful in-laws, as they ring the door bell over and over…and you just have to say to yourself, “Yes, I am thankful”. I’m thankful for designer bags and good hair days and those mornings when I wake up and realize I can go back to bed because I don’t have to go to work. But really, I’m thankful for the people in my life that make my everyday a little more bearable. Yes, I’m an EPD, but I’d never be able to put on the tiniest of parties if it wasn’t for the local florist that knows me by name and helps me pick out a great arrangement…or my mom who sends along her recipe for pineapple au gratin when a dinner party just popped up…or the best friend that’s always willing to bring over a bottle of wine and get their early to help with the finishing touches.
So, yes, I’m thankful for my ever so perfect hoop earrings which are appropriate for every event, but I’m most thankful for the people in my life that make everyday more fun and give me a reason to plan events for family & friends. So, here’s to mastering the centerpiece and getting the lumps out of your mashed potatoes on Thanksgiving. Cheers!

Check out these sites for a little help on getting your Thanksgiving plans all squared away…

Center piece ideas:
http://www.bhg.com/holidays/thanksgiving/indoor-decorating/easy-centerpieces-for-thanksgiving/

Creative placecards:
http://www.marthastewart.com/photogallery/thanksgiving-table-settings

Even I can cook this:
http://www.kraftfoods.com/kf/Pages/home.aspx

Diva Don't of the Day!

Don't just sign a contract for an event vendor without reading it first! Make sure you understand what you are paying for, how much you are paying and when each payment is due. Additionally before you sign make sure you know what will happen in cases of weather emergencies, union strikes or cancelled events. Also write in provisions you discuss with the venue representative and ask them to sign the updated contract---if they promise you an extra hour free for event set-up, get it in writing!

Diva Don't of the Day

When selecting menus from vendors, don't just pick from the choices they offer on their website or handouts---ask the Chef to help customize your event menu! This can include using more seasonal ingredients and flavors, accomodating any allergies and also just being more creative! Also ask the chef if regular menu items can be presented in new ways: small plates, miniture burgers or beef wellingtons, soup in shot glasses, etc. Mini-stations are a great alternative to a plated dinner, but ensure your guests will leave with full tummies!

Cheap, but Chic DIY Centerpiece

Purchase cylinder shaped vases at any craft store or floral supplier and top with chinese lanterns, just add water and a waterproof LED light for a modern, affordable and chic centerpiece!

Diva DO of the Day

If planning an out of town wedding, family reunion or party, be sure to check with the local visitor's bureau at your destination. This group can provide maps, agendas, "things to do" guides and more---and best of all, usually FREE! If providing a welcome bag for your guests, be sure to ask about hats, shirts and other items that can be provided at cost with that area's name or logo.

Diva Do of the Day!

When planning your next event, consider making your next event “green”. Oftentimes, it’s difficult to incorporate eco friendly practices; but giving even a little TLC to Mother Earth is a step in the right direction. Check out these Web sites on ways to make your next event a little more earth friendly.

HOSTING A GREEN EVENT:
http://www.wikihow.com/Host-a-Green-Event

GREEN WEDDING:
http://www.wikihow.com/Have-a-Green-Wedding

DINNERWARE FROM FALLEN LEAVES:
http://www.verterra.com/index.php

Aisle Opener

There is a bit of nostalgia when a bride walks down the aisle to the typical bridal march. But there is originality when the bride walks down the aisle to something a little less typical. The newest trend, and I do stress “trend”, is to have the wedding party enter to a hip hop, club rockin’, bootie smacking tune. I’m not sure I’m a total fan though. It’s definitely original and I give kudos to those brave enough to attempt the feat; however, I prefer the classy or sentimental stroll down the aisle. I mean who wants all eyes on the bride coming down to, “Baby Got Back” by Sir Mix-A-Lot?
So rather than criticize too much, I offer a few examples or alternative “aisle openers”:

Diva Do of the Day!

When planning an event be sure to search the web for ideas, even an EPD knows to look for new trends and ways to rework old ideas.

Here are some of our favorite sites:
WEDDING PAPER DIVAS
Invitations, Save the Date Cards and Social Stationary
DIVA it: Order your whole wedding suite here, save the date, invitation, response cards, escort cards, placecards and more!
http://www.weddingpaperdivas.com/

BEAU-COUP
Favors and Gifts (great site for ideas!)
DIVA it: Buy customzied labels here for a high end look, but add them to Dollar Store finds to keep it in your budget!
http://www.beau-coup.com/

ZAZZLE
Create your own t-shirts, buttons, etc.
DIVA it: Create a Sweet 16 t-shirt as a favor for your party attendees!
http://www.zazzle.com/

Diva Do's and Diva Don'ts!

Attention all EPDs in Training: Be sure to check daily for our Diva Do's and Diva Don'ts! Simple, easy tips to make sure your events are DIVINE and not DISASTERS!

What?!? I'm not perfect?

EPD K--"Um, you misspelled my name on my nametag"

Sure, maybe I did misspell your nametag name, but did you give it to me correctly when you rsvp'd? Maybe you decided you'd write in your "doctor" handwriting the day you sent in your reply card. Oh, you go by Dick, but you told me on the phone your name was Richard. I think Dick really does fit you better.

Your Job Must be so Fun!

I try to remember that every time I'm in heels and chasing down a bus or limo. Nothing like smelling that exhaust for 20 minutes waiting on your clients to show up. Or when I get handed some one's used cocktail napkin at an event. Yes, I can take that gum for you too.--EPD J