Planning a party on a budget?
Begin by jotting down everything you'll need -- food, decorations and flowers, invitations, music, any rentals (such as chairs or tables), even the baby-sitters fee. Don't forget to set aside some money for unexpected expenses.
If your dream party turns out to be too expensive, look for simple ways to revise your plans. You can scale back the number of guests, substitute chicken for those expensive shrimp, or plan a simpler type of party -- perhaps serving appetizers or dessert rather than a whole meal.
No matter what your party, it is always best to set a budget prior to purchasing anything. It is a good idea to have a small notebook.
1) Start with a rough estimate for your budget. How much are you willing to spend?
2) Make a list of things you will need. (food, decorations and flowers, invitations, music, etc. )
3) ALWAYS, ALWAYS make room for unexpected expenses. They will come up.
4) If time permits, shop around. With a little work you can find some really great stuff.
5) As you purchase things, write down their cost in your notebook or at least keep the receipts together. This will be a constant reminder of how much you have spent.
6) A good motto to have is "THINK TWICE, BUY ONCE". Always think prior to purchasing an item.
By following these simple guidelines, you can have a terrific party without going into debt!
Friday, July 31, 2009
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
15 Ways to Personalize Your Wedding
15 Ways to Personalize Your Wedding
A wedding exemplifies a connection between two people that is unlike any other. Injecting your big day with a little creativity to personalize your wedding can be one of the most rewarding activities you undertake throughout the planning stages. Here are some creative, romantic, loving, and fun ways to make it all about the two of you.
1. Put table numbers in snow globes or different types of picture frames.
2. Decorate the couples' chairs with real flowers and vines embroidered with the couple's initials.
3. Play up a garden setting by interspersing urn planters and a fountain among chairs.
4. Instead of assigning seating, surround the dance floor with a lounge-like mix of banquettes and sofas to encourage lively conversation.
5. For a beach wedding, opt for centerpieces that incorporate driftwood and seashells and, at each place setting, a bottle containing a copy of a romantic poem.
6. Cocktail hour is a great time to serve food inspired by your heritage. Guests, especially those unfamiliar with your traditions, have the opportunity to sample cuisines they may never have tried before.
7. Have fun with your food. Consider serving fun finger foods.
8. Seek out meaningful favors, like small bags of your favorite house blend if you two met at a coffeehouse.
9. Instead of combining traditions, party twice with celebrations honoring both cultures.
10. If you or your groom already has children, honor your blended family by inviting the kids to join in lighting the unity candle.
11. Instead of having the wedding guests throw rice, there are many creative ways to send off the bride and groom such as: dove release, butterfly release, balloon release, or theme related items.
12. Traditionally a bride and groom will leave the wedding location in a limousine. There are many other options for you two to ride off into the sunset such as: horse drawn carriage, red convertible, motorcycle, or hot-air balloon.
13. Use a wish tree, rather than a guest book - bring in an actual small tree. Friends write loving wishes on cards and hang them on the tree. The bride and groom keep the wishes and plant the tree wherever they would like to always have a special reminder of the wedding day.
14. Use creative bridesmaids’ bouquets for your day. Each bridesmaid carries a bouquet made of only one type of flower. The bride’s bouquet is made of a combination of all the types of flowers. This symbolizes how the special people in the bride’s life have affected her and made her the person she is on her wedding day.
15. The toast need not be just for the best man and maid of honor. Allow everyone to participate. Open the mic up to the floor and allow any guests who want to speak the chance to make a special comment about the couple. The toasts are many people’s most memorable and favorite part of weddings, so don’t cut the fun short.
A wedding exemplifies a connection between two people that is unlike any other. Injecting your big day with a little creativity to personalize your wedding can be one of the most rewarding activities you undertake throughout the planning stages. Here are some creative, romantic, loving, and fun ways to make it all about the two of you.
1. Put table numbers in snow globes or different types of picture frames.
2. Decorate the couples' chairs with real flowers and vines embroidered with the couple's initials.
3. Play up a garden setting by interspersing urn planters and a fountain among chairs.
4. Instead of assigning seating, surround the dance floor with a lounge-like mix of banquettes and sofas to encourage lively conversation.
5. For a beach wedding, opt for centerpieces that incorporate driftwood and seashells and, at each place setting, a bottle containing a copy of a romantic poem.
6. Cocktail hour is a great time to serve food inspired by your heritage. Guests, especially those unfamiliar with your traditions, have the opportunity to sample cuisines they may never have tried before.
7. Have fun with your food. Consider serving fun finger foods.
8. Seek out meaningful favors, like small bags of your favorite house blend if you two met at a coffeehouse.
9. Instead of combining traditions, party twice with celebrations honoring both cultures.
10. If you or your groom already has children, honor your blended family by inviting the kids to join in lighting the unity candle.
11. Instead of having the wedding guests throw rice, there are many creative ways to send off the bride and groom such as: dove release, butterfly release, balloon release, or theme related items.
12. Traditionally a bride and groom will leave the wedding location in a limousine. There are many other options for you two to ride off into the sunset such as: horse drawn carriage, red convertible, motorcycle, or hot-air balloon.
13. Use a wish tree, rather than a guest book - bring in an actual small tree. Friends write loving wishes on cards and hang them on the tree. The bride and groom keep the wishes and plant the tree wherever they would like to always have a special reminder of the wedding day.
14. Use creative bridesmaids’ bouquets for your day. Each bridesmaid carries a bouquet made of only one type of flower. The bride’s bouquet is made of a combination of all the types of flowers. This symbolizes how the special people in the bride’s life have affected her and made her the person she is on her wedding day.
15. The toast need not be just for the best man and maid of honor. Allow everyone to participate. Open the mic up to the floor and allow any guests who want to speak the chance to make a special comment about the couple. The toasts are many people’s most memorable and favorite part of weddings, so don’t cut the fun short.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Quick & Easy Party Planning Checklist
Quick & Easy Party Planning Checklist
Three weeks prior to party:
*Select occasion for party
*Select theme and staging
*Create guest list
*Send invitations
*Date of party
*Time
*Place
*Plan and select decorations
*Begin collecting materials and creating props
*Prepare menu and grocery list
*Select and hire caterer/serving help (if needed)
*Select and hire party planner (if needed)
A few days before the party:
*Call any guests who have not responded
*Buy groceries and beverages
*Prepare and freeze/refrigerate food items that can be made in advance
One day before:
*Clean party facility
*Set up and arrange party room
*Get out serving pieces
*Decorate party room
Day of party:
*Set up appetizers
*Set up food
Charity Designer Events
Events That Exceed Your Expectations, Every time!!
1-877-SOW-IN-2-U
1-877-769-4628
www.cdevents.biz
Email: info@cdevents.biz
Three weeks prior to party:
*Select occasion for party
*Select theme and staging
*Create guest list
*Send invitations
*Date of party
*Time
*Place
*Plan and select decorations
*Begin collecting materials and creating props
*Prepare menu and grocery list
*Select and hire caterer/serving help (if needed)
*Select and hire party planner (if needed)
A few days before the party:
*Call any guests who have not responded
*Buy groceries and beverages
*Prepare and freeze/refrigerate food items that can be made in advance
One day before:
*Clean party facility
*Set up and arrange party room
*Get out serving pieces
*Decorate party room
Day of party:
*Set up appetizers
*Set up food
Charity Designer Events
Events That Exceed Your Expectations, Every time!!
1-877-SOW-IN-2-U
1-877-769-4628
www.cdevents.biz
Email: info@cdevents.biz
Thursday, July 23, 2009
10 Hidden Wedding Costs
1. Band Equipment
Why it's hidden The cost of the band includes fees for the musicians' time and the minimum amount of equipment needed. If your reception space is extra-large, then additional speakers and microphones could possibly be required to project the best sound quality.
The cost Anywhere from several hundred to several thousand dollars
How to avoid it Before booking your band or DJ, you need to clearly explain the layout of the space (or have them check it out, if they're willing) so the vendors know exactly what they're working with. If they want to add in extra equipment, you should have them explain why it's necessary before you sign a contract or agree to pay for anything else.
2. Postage Stamps
Why it's hidden Stationers don't advertise the shipping costs; if they did, you might decide to go with simpler (read: cheaper) invites.
The cost Oversized, awkwardly shaped and bulky invitations will most often run you as much as $2 each to mail.
How to avoid it Skip the fancy boxed invitations and multilayer cards, which can bulk up quickly and cost a lot more than you bargained for.
3. Gown Alterations
Why it's hidden Dresses are pretty pricey and stores don't want to scare away clients by listing alterations as part of the total cost.
The cost A simple hem can be less than $100, but completely rebuilding a bodice or moving zippers can send the price soaring.
How to avoid it Ask about what the store charges for every alteration you may need before you purchase the gown. If it's too much, don't be afraid to take your dress to a less expensive seamstress to have alterations done.
4. Photo/Video Overtime
Why it's hidden Your photo and video pros are booked for just a certain amount of time, so if your wedding runs a little longer than you expected, they'll charge per hour.
The cost Starting at $250 per hour
How to avoid it When planning the day, factor in extra time for getting dressed and taking photos. You'll get a realistic sense of how long everything should take. Refer to this itinerary when booking your photo/video vendors.
5. Welcome-Bag Delivery
Why it's hidden Most hotels don't factor in a welcome-bag delivery fee when you block rooms. And they may fail to mention the rate unless you ask -- they'll just add it to your final bill. Inquire within; they may even charge you a fee for holding the welcome bags if you drop them off before the guests arrive!
The cost Up to $7 per bag
How to avoid it During the booking process, ask about the hotel's policy on receiving and delivering welcome bags to guests' rooms. It may be free or cheaper if they hand the bags out at the counter as guests check in. If you don't want the extra charge, you can distribute them at the rehearsal dinner.
6. Rental Transport
Why it's hidden You'd assume that the rental companies would include these extra fees in the per-item costs (do they honestly think you're going to fit 150 chiavari chairs in your own car?), but surprisingly, they don't.
The cost From $50 up to more than $500
How to avoid it Ask the rental company what their shipping and packaging fees are up front -- if the cost is too high for your budget, shop around a bit. You just might find that you'll actually save some money by renting items from a more expensive company that includes delivery costs at no extra charge.
7. Taxes
Why it's hidden Even though these aren't exactly hidden -- we all know that there are taxes on almost everything -- most couples don't think about how much they'll end up owing during the planning process.
The cost This will depend on the total amount of money you're spending as well as the location of the event (taxes vary in different areas).
How to avoid it There's no getting around paying taxes, but paying the entire bill in one lump sum can help lower the overall price, especially in the winter when vendors have fewer weddings to cover their bills.
8. Cake-Cutting Fee
Why it's hidden If you use the cake provided by your reception site, the charge is typically wrapped into the cost. Going with an outside baker can jack up the price. Why? Because your venue's workers are responsible for slicing and serving each piece, then cleaning the dishes. This means more work for their staff!
The cost From $2 to $5 per guest
How to avoid it Go with the site's cake baker. Don't worry: They'll likely be able to work with your vision. If you're set on a particular cake baker, then call your venue and find out what the fee is before you sign a contract.
9. Coat Check
Why it's hidden When you book your venue in the summer, it's easy to forget just how cold it'll be in winter months like December.
The cost The damage starts at around $200.
How to avoid it Union rules may dictate the number of people who are required to work the coat check (and the amount they get paid). Have a good approximation of your total guest count when you book the coat checkers.
10. Gratuities
Why it's hidden Many couples often think that the "service charge" is a tip for the event staff when it's actually an additional fee that the catering halls charge. For what? To cover their own cost for hiring servers.
The cost Typically 15 to 20 percent of the event's total food and drink fee
How to avoid it Once you get the proposed fee, add the service charge percentage so it's already accounted for before the event. The last thing you want is to get hit with an unexpectedly huge bill that just about breaks the bank.
Charity Designer Events
Events That Exceed Your Expectations, Every time!!
1-877-SOW-IN-2-U
1-877-769-4628 ext. 200
www.cdevents.biz
Email: info@cdevents.biz
1. Band Equipment
Why it's hidden The cost of the band includes fees for the musicians' time and the minimum amount of equipment needed. If your reception space is extra-large, then additional speakers and microphones could possibly be required to project the best sound quality.
The cost Anywhere from several hundred to several thousand dollars
How to avoid it Before booking your band or DJ, you need to clearly explain the layout of the space (or have them check it out, if they're willing) so the vendors know exactly what they're working with. If they want to add in extra equipment, you should have them explain why it's necessary before you sign a contract or agree to pay for anything else.
2. Postage Stamps
Why it's hidden Stationers don't advertise the shipping costs; if they did, you might decide to go with simpler (read: cheaper) invites.
The cost Oversized, awkwardly shaped and bulky invitations will most often run you as much as $2 each to mail.
How to avoid it Skip the fancy boxed invitations and multilayer cards, which can bulk up quickly and cost a lot more than you bargained for.
3. Gown Alterations
Why it's hidden Dresses are pretty pricey and stores don't want to scare away clients by listing alterations as part of the total cost.
The cost A simple hem can be less than $100, but completely rebuilding a bodice or moving zippers can send the price soaring.
How to avoid it Ask about what the store charges for every alteration you may need before you purchase the gown. If it's too much, don't be afraid to take your dress to a less expensive seamstress to have alterations done.
4. Photo/Video Overtime
Why it's hidden Your photo and video pros are booked for just a certain amount of time, so if your wedding runs a little longer than you expected, they'll charge per hour.
The cost Starting at $250 per hour
How to avoid it When planning the day, factor in extra time for getting dressed and taking photos. You'll get a realistic sense of how long everything should take. Refer to this itinerary when booking your photo/video vendors.
5. Welcome-Bag Delivery
Why it's hidden Most hotels don't factor in a welcome-bag delivery fee when you block rooms. And they may fail to mention the rate unless you ask -- they'll just add it to your final bill. Inquire within; they may even charge you a fee for holding the welcome bags if you drop them off before the guests arrive!
The cost Up to $7 per bag
How to avoid it During the booking process, ask about the hotel's policy on receiving and delivering welcome bags to guests' rooms. It may be free or cheaper if they hand the bags out at the counter as guests check in. If you don't want the extra charge, you can distribute them at the rehearsal dinner.
6. Rental Transport
Why it's hidden You'd assume that the rental companies would include these extra fees in the per-item costs (do they honestly think you're going to fit 150 chiavari chairs in your own car?), but surprisingly, they don't.
The cost From $50 up to more than $500
How to avoid it Ask the rental company what their shipping and packaging fees are up front -- if the cost is too high for your budget, shop around a bit. You just might find that you'll actually save some money by renting items from a more expensive company that includes delivery costs at no extra charge.
7. Taxes
Why it's hidden Even though these aren't exactly hidden -- we all know that there are taxes on almost everything -- most couples don't think about how much they'll end up owing during the planning process.
The cost This will depend on the total amount of money you're spending as well as the location of the event (taxes vary in different areas).
How to avoid it There's no getting around paying taxes, but paying the entire bill in one lump sum can help lower the overall price, especially in the winter when vendors have fewer weddings to cover their bills.
8. Cake-Cutting Fee
Why it's hidden If you use the cake provided by your reception site, the charge is typically wrapped into the cost. Going with an outside baker can jack up the price. Why? Because your venue's workers are responsible for slicing and serving each piece, then cleaning the dishes. This means more work for their staff!
The cost From $2 to $5 per guest
How to avoid it Go with the site's cake baker. Don't worry: They'll likely be able to work with your vision. If you're set on a particular cake baker, then call your venue and find out what the fee is before you sign a contract.
9. Coat Check
Why it's hidden When you book your venue in the summer, it's easy to forget just how cold it'll be in winter months like December.
The cost The damage starts at around $200.
How to avoid it Union rules may dictate the number of people who are required to work the coat check (and the amount they get paid). Have a good approximation of your total guest count when you book the coat checkers.
10. Gratuities
Why it's hidden Many couples often think that the "service charge" is a tip for the event staff when it's actually an additional fee that the catering halls charge. For what? To cover their own cost for hiring servers.
The cost Typically 15 to 20 percent of the event's total food and drink fee
How to avoid it Once you get the proposed fee, add the service charge percentage so it's already accounted for before the event. The last thing you want is to get hit with an unexpectedly huge bill that just about breaks the bank.
Charity Designer Events
Events That Exceed Your Expectations, Every time!!
1-877-SOW-IN-2-U
1-877-769-4628 ext. 200
www.cdevents.biz
Email: info@cdevents.biz
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Do you have a hunter mental
Are you a type ‘A’ personality?
Are you the most self-motivated person you know?
Do you love challenges?
Are you a leader?
Do people feed off of your energy?
Did you check all of these? If so, we are looking for you!
Charity Designer Events is looking for driven individuals who are willing to learn about our business so they can effectively sell our services. We seek someone who wants to be part of a dynamic event planning company. We need good communicators who can establish and maintain strong working relationships. Additionally, we’re looking for people with creative ideas who are committed to achieving our expansion goal. These candidates will be placed as sales and marketing representatives with unlimited earning potential and an opportunity to move into our senior management position.
Requirements:
Related experience in sales preferably in the event industry Strong sales skills required/Sales training preferred
Ability to persuade or influence individuals using oral communication skills
Focus on customer retention and Excellent people skills
Ability to work independently; Solid time management, organization and prioritization skills
Proficient in computer software including Microsoft Word, Excel
Job Description:
· Promote and support the quality, vision and principles of Charity Designer Events by performing the following duties
· Sales and marketing representatives will go after business in both corporate and social segments
· Participates in creating sales plans / strategic marketing plans Close sales and follow up after the close
· Consistently Prospect for new business through cold and warm lead generation
· Promote Charity Designer Events to the local community by attending member functions, monthly Chamber of Commerce meetings, trade association meetings and trade shows
· Develop target account lists and account prospects to generate qualified new business opportunities, develop and maintain a comprehensive lead management process and documentation.
· This position will spend a good amount of time out of the office chasing Business
Our Company offers: 100% commission sales model with no earning limitations Compensation based on performanceOpportunity for Management Position
Marketing collateral
Contact Info:
Please send your resume to:
info@cdevents.biz
NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE !!
Are you a type ‘A’ personality?
Are you the most self-motivated person you know?
Do you love challenges?
Are you a leader?
Do people feed off of your energy?
Did you check all of these? If so, we are looking for you!
Charity Designer Events is looking for driven individuals who are willing to learn about our business so they can effectively sell our services. We seek someone who wants to be part of a dynamic event planning company. We need good communicators who can establish and maintain strong working relationships. Additionally, we’re looking for people with creative ideas who are committed to achieving our expansion goal. These candidates will be placed as sales and marketing representatives with unlimited earning potential and an opportunity to move into our senior management position.
Requirements:
Related experience in sales preferably in the event industry Strong sales skills required/Sales training preferred
Ability to persuade or influence individuals using oral communication skills
Focus on customer retention and Excellent people skills
Ability to work independently; Solid time management, organization and prioritization skills
Proficient in computer software including Microsoft Word, Excel
Job Description:
· Promote and support the quality, vision and principles of Charity Designer Events by performing the following duties
· Sales and marketing representatives will go after business in both corporate and social segments
· Participates in creating sales plans / strategic marketing plans Close sales and follow up after the close
· Consistently Prospect for new business through cold and warm lead generation
· Promote Charity Designer Events to the local community by attending member functions, monthly Chamber of Commerce meetings, trade association meetings and trade shows
· Develop target account lists and account prospects to generate qualified new business opportunities, develop and maintain a comprehensive lead management process and documentation.
· This position will spend a good amount of time out of the office chasing Business
Our Company offers: 100% commission sales model with no earning limitations Compensation based on performanceOpportunity for Management Position
Marketing collateral
Contact Info:
Please send your resume to:
info@cdevents.biz
NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE !!
Why Hire A Wedding Coordinator?
Why Hire A Wedding Coordinator?
As couples begin thinking about their wedding, they are often confused as to how much to spend, where to obtain specialized services, and how to choose vendors. These worries often mount as quickly as the cost of the wedding. After the euphoria wears off and the reality settles in, it's shocking to discover of how much preparation is involved. Couples are faced with decisions about everything from invitation wording to planning their honeymoon. Couples often find they want experienced professional help.
Not long ago, a wedding coordinator was thought of as a luxury, only used by the wealthy. Now a coordinator is essential to the well planned affair. It is no longer "trendy" to engage a coordinator. Being experienced in negotiating contracts with caterers, florists, photographers, and other suppliers, the coordinator saves valuable time and money. The coordinator can take advantage of discounts not available to private parties and avoid costly mistakes, while turning your dreams into reality.
The average wedding can take more than two hundred fifty hours just to plan. With today's hectic lifestyles, you may not have time to compare all the options, making sure you get the best deal, and make sure all the details are in place.
Wedding coordinators are not here to make decisions for you, but to guide and assist you in making informed decisions. Their training, knowledge, and experience will turn your dreams and expectations into reality. They want you to host a beautiful and distinctive event which you can enjoy.
A wedding coordinator will save you time and enable you to get the most for your money! A wedding coordinator can serve in many other capacities. They can act as the family counselor for apprehensive brides and the mothers, a wedding coordinator can become as close as your best friend.
How do you know you're hiring the right coordinator?
Trust is important in any relationship. You should feel completely comfortable with the coordinator and feel assured that he or she completely understands what your needs are. Your personalities should match. It's important to find out how long the coordinator has been in business. Be careful of coordinators who are not members of any professional organization. These organizations have a code of ethics that the consultant must follow in order to be a member, some also require some sort of continuing education each year to stay a member.
Do You Need a Coordinator?
We're not going to tell you the answer to that because we can't. Only you know if you need one or not. Will you be getting help from others around you, your mother, bridesmaids, fiancé, friends or will you have to do it all by yourself. Can you do it by yourself? Do you want to plan your wedding by yourself? Only you know.
As couples begin thinking about their wedding, they are often confused as to how much to spend, where to obtain specialized services, and how to choose vendors. These worries often mount as quickly as the cost of the wedding. After the euphoria wears off and the reality settles in, it's shocking to discover of how much preparation is involved. Couples are faced with decisions about everything from invitation wording to planning their honeymoon. Couples often find they want experienced professional help.
Not long ago, a wedding coordinator was thought of as a luxury, only used by the wealthy. Now a coordinator is essential to the well planned affair. It is no longer "trendy" to engage a coordinator. Being experienced in negotiating contracts with caterers, florists, photographers, and other suppliers, the coordinator saves valuable time and money. The coordinator can take advantage of discounts not available to private parties and avoid costly mistakes, while turning your dreams into reality.
The average wedding can take more than two hundred fifty hours just to plan. With today's hectic lifestyles, you may not have time to compare all the options, making sure you get the best deal, and make sure all the details are in place.
Wedding coordinators are not here to make decisions for you, but to guide and assist you in making informed decisions. Their training, knowledge, and experience will turn your dreams and expectations into reality. They want you to host a beautiful and distinctive event which you can enjoy.
A wedding coordinator will save you time and enable you to get the most for your money! A wedding coordinator can serve in many other capacities. They can act as the family counselor for apprehensive brides and the mothers, a wedding coordinator can become as close as your best friend.
How do you know you're hiring the right coordinator?
Trust is important in any relationship. You should feel completely comfortable with the coordinator and feel assured that he or she completely understands what your needs are. Your personalities should match. It's important to find out how long the coordinator has been in business. Be careful of coordinators who are not members of any professional organization. These organizations have a code of ethics that the consultant must follow in order to be a member, some also require some sort of continuing education each year to stay a member.
Do You Need a Coordinator?
We're not going to tell you the answer to that because we can't. Only you know if you need one or not. Will you be getting help from others around you, your mother, bridesmaids, fiancé, friends or will you have to do it all by yourself. Can you do it by yourself? Do you want to plan your wedding by yourself? Only you know.
What Can a Wedding Coordinator Do For Me?
The list is long but here are a few of the duties you can expect:
* Help you to create the type of wedding you want. With that knowledge you'll be able to pick your venue, vendors, color scheme, theme, music, etc.
* Help you create a budget sheet and keep track of where your money is going and how much is still owing.
* Help keep you on your budget and not go over...too much!!
* Suggest vendors that fit your budget and ideas.
* Make a wedding planning schedule so that you know what you've done and what still needs to be done.
* In most cases a coordinator can save you money because of their connection in the industry.
* Take care of any emergencies that arise.
* Create a wedding day schedule.
Charity Designer Events Events That Exceed Your Expectations, Every time!! 1-877-SOW-IN-2-U 1-877-769-4628 Email: info@cdevents.biz
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