Eventfully Yours

Wordless Wednesday

The ABC's on DIY

My name is Kandi and I'm a DIY-aholic.  When I see something on TV or magazines, I immediately think to myself, I can do that.  Most times I'm successful with my "experiments," but sometimes things don't go as planned.  Anything that Martha Stewart or B. Smith publishes immediately earns a place of honor on my book shelf.  Yes, I've got it bad.

Do it yourself projects are fun and feeds that little creative person inside of us all.  Let's face it, that feeling of accomplishment you feel when someone exclaims with genuine surprise, "You did this?!," makes you feel like you've won a gold medal.

Nothing can kill a DIY project faster than time.  Unfortunately, time does not stand still when you're working on your favors, invitations or whatever great little project, Martha has cooked up.  FYI - Martha has staff, assistants, etc. that help her complete her projects.  More than likely, you have your friends, who between kids, work, and boyfriends might be able to help you.

Once you set your event date, hit the ground running on your DIY projects.  The clock is ticking. . .

A.    Create a mock up.  This lets you see what works and what doesn't.  Should it be bigger, smaller or         a different color.

B.    Get all your supplies together.  If things need to be ordered, do it now.  It is not a good look to             find out too late that the paper you ordered is not the color you thought it would be.

C.    "Hire" staff.  Enlist the help of your family and friends, but offer to "pay" them.  Not actual money         (though some may prefer this) but offer a home cooked meal, babysitting, etc.

Properly completed DIY projects for your event add a touch of creative flair and sentiment.  Learn the ABCs for great results everytime!

My Favorite Event of 2008

There were so many great events this year, but I decided to feature my absolute favorite.  Please feel free to share your favorite event with us as well.

Tyler Perry's Studio Opening

 

Tyler's story of success shows that hard work will get you far.  And on top of that, Oprah was there.  If you have Oprah at your party, then that's saying something!

Wordless Wednesday - Happy Whatever!

Bring On the Bubbly

Looking for a cool and inexpensive New Year's Eve celebration?  Try this one on for size.

Set the Tone

The champagne glass on this invitation lets your guests know what type of party this is.  I am usually against BYOB (bring your own bottle) parties, but on the invitation tell your friends to bring a bottle of their favorite champagne to share.  You'll provide the glasses, food and fun.  The key to this party is to keep your guest list small, no more than 20 people to allow for an enjoyable evening.  This party can still work for non drinkers as well, just ask that they bring their favorite non-alcoholic drink.

Party Favors

So that no one drinks from the wrong glass, provide your guests with the needed tools to make their own Wine or Champagne Glass Charms.  These items can easily be found at your local craft store like Michaels or JoAnn Fabrics.

Decor

This decorating kit from Oriental Trading will have your home looking festive in no time!

Don't forget the hats, tiaras and noisemakers!  Happy New Year!

Using Referrals

 

Sometimes the best things come from referrals.  How many times has a friend recommended a restaurant, book or movie, that lead to you making a purchase?

When it comes to planning events, referrals are the way most vendors or service providers (like myself) get new clients.  As a consumer, there are some things that should be taken into account when using referrals to hire for your next event.

Consider the Source:  Know the saying, "one man's trash is another man's treasure"?  This can also apply to opinions.  What one person considers to be great service or excellent photos, may be considered sub par to another.

What Services They Received:  It is best to get referrals from people who received the services or products that are the same ones that you are looking to purchase.  Case in point, a transportation company may have a great airport shuttle service, but their wedding service may not measure up.

Are They Being Paid:  There is an event industry practice of referral fees.  This is when vendors pay a fee to other vendors for referring clients who book them.  I'm not saying that there is anything wrong with this practice, but some may tend to refer individuals based on receiving payments rather than the best person for the job.

Even with referrals it is still important for you to do your research.  Call for pricing, get samples and most importantly schedule an appointment for a consultation.  In the end, it is all about whether or not the vendor is a good fit for you.  Feel free to share your experiences with us!

Wordless Wednesday - Oooh, Cupcakes

Change is Afoot!

I can barely contain my excitement as I write this post, for two reasons. 

The first reason being that I got to use the word, Afoot.  How cool is that?!  I feel like a character from Jane Eyre or something. 

The second, as I briefly mentioned in my post yesterday, is that this blog is being redesigned.  Before the end of the week, you will no longer have to worry about having a seizure while reading this blog.  Sorry, I thought the black was cool.

Thanks to the superior design skills of Nicole from Apron Strings Aflutter, things are about to change!

Recipe for Party Success

If you're anything like me, when you get an invitation from certain people it's like making an appointment for a root canal.  You know it's going to be painful and you just don't want to go.  On the flip side, what if people feel like that about your events?  Worry no more!  I am about to share with you my own tried and true recipe for party success.

2 Parts Planning
    No matter how big or small your event is, you have to have some sort of plan.  What is the party         for?  Who is invited?  Time, place, food, drink, music, theme, etc.  You see where this is going.  Your     plan is the main part of your recipe, keeping everything together.

1 Part Guest List
    Nothing can end a party faster than your guests.
    Mix it up:  Be sure to have people from different backgrounds and personalities to keep the party          lively.
    Common Interests are good too:  Have a party for your social group or book club.  Conversations will     flow immediately.

2 Parts Food
    You can't have a party without food.  If you do, no need to worry about people staying too late.  Your     guests will be gone before you can say "Thanks for coming."
    You don't have to prepare an 8 course meal, but have something that your guests can munch on             especially if you are serving alcoholic drinks.

1 Part Drink
    Whether you opt for a party free of alcohol or set up a full bar, people get thirsty.
    Creating a signature drink can help you save money and add your own special touch to your event.      Make sure your signature drink is tasty, people will remember it long after the party is over.

Mix all these ingredients together and serve immediately for a truly memorable and successful event.

FYI - Eventfully Yours is getting a face lift!  Nicole of Apron Strings Aflutter is creating a new look for EYB that will go live within the next couple of weeks.  Check back to see our new look!

Wordless Wednesday - First Dance