This month I want to talk to you about favors. This is a great way to give guests a momento from your big day. I want to give you some ideas of things you could do and some local places you can get them. Some of these things may suprise you!
First let's talk sweets!
Candy bars are all the rage right now and a great way to keep all your guests happy (even the little ones). The idea is that you and your groom pick out candies that you really like. Then you set them up (nicely) on a table. I like to use fishbowls or other glass pieces (might be a good time to showcase some antique or hierloom pieces) and then at the end of the table you have favor bags with your wedding date information on it- or a cute saying.
Sometimes you get lucky and the person making your cake can also make other items. Cookies? Yes Mam! Lollipops? You betcha! Locally (Presque Isle, Maine) you can contact Tori at Creative Occasions! She does great work and is a pleasure to work with!
Recently, I found a little gem in the area. Robin's Chocolate sauce. This is a great product, fair trade, and certified organic! Not to mention it is made right in Limestone! Now, I have tried this chocolate and I am telling you it is yummy! Also Robin's offers cellophane bags and ribbons (in your wedding colors) to make the favors look a bit more finished. For more information find Robin's Chocolate Sauce on facebook!
Now let's talk about some eco friendly options!
Seed paper- this stuff is super cool. It is paper that has seeds in it. Your guests can plant these pieces of paper and lovely flowers will grow!
Glasses- you can have your name put onto the glasses and then they can use it for the toast! Then, they take it home and can use it!
Finally I want to mention something that I think is amazing to do...
Donations. Instead of having favors for people- set envelopes out for people to make a donation to a cause that is near and dear to you both.
I hope this helps you out! Feel free to comment with some of your FAVORite things!
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
What Happens right before Happily Ever After?!
Some of my brides are calling me and saying- why didn't the wedding magazines tell me that it was ok for me to freak out?! Why do I feel like an emotional train wreck? Why do I need to carry a foam bat with me whenever I talk to my in-laws to be about my wedding?
Well let me tell you, before Cinderella and Prince Charming got into the carriage and rode off into the sunset, Cinderella had bald spots from planning the wedding. I am going to let you in on a little secret- it's going to be ok. You are not being a bride-zilla and its fine to have a bit of a freak out- because let's face it- this day is important to you.
I am here with you- at one point all of us married women were brides and we all had our little moments. Here are a few tips to get you through this time.
1) Stop feeling like you are not being normal. Allow yourself to say "I am freaking the freak out and it is ok." You are not the only bride to be overwhelmed or to feel like you do not know what to do next. So just go with it!
2) When you realize that you are freaking out- walk away. You do NOT need to make this decision RIGHT NOW. Chances are if you make the decision during a panic- you will regret it. I do not want you to do that. I want you to LOVE all aspects of your wedding- not just settle.
3) Get moving! Dance to the hits of your childhood- it will make you feel better. Turn on your Wii and put in Wii Sports and beat the crap out of something. Do anything to get your blood flowing and to get your mind off of the stress.
4) TURN OFF YOUR PHONE. Chances are the people who were with your during your little episode will want to check on you. This is nice but you need time to get your act together. Call them back- they will understand.
5) Scream. Just go somewhere private and let it out. Stomp and throw a fit- its fine... then walk away composed- leave it behind and move on.
So how do we keep from getting to this point? You need to be realistic and know that not everything is going to go as planned- unless you are planning in cupcakeville. Life happens and things will not go amazingly every day. Surround yourself with people who can calm you down and just remember its ok to be a bit of a spaz sometimes. This is a big day and you want it to be perfect- Don't worry, it will be!
Well let me tell you, before Cinderella and Prince Charming got into the carriage and rode off into the sunset, Cinderella had bald spots from planning the wedding. I am going to let you in on a little secret- it's going to be ok. You are not being a bride-zilla and its fine to have a bit of a freak out- because let's face it- this day is important to you.
I am here with you- at one point all of us married women were brides and we all had our little moments. Here are a few tips to get you through this time.
1) Stop feeling like you are not being normal. Allow yourself to say "I am freaking the freak out and it is ok." You are not the only bride to be overwhelmed or to feel like you do not know what to do next. So just go with it!
2) When you realize that you are freaking out- walk away. You do NOT need to make this decision RIGHT NOW. Chances are if you make the decision during a panic- you will regret it. I do not want you to do that. I want you to LOVE all aspects of your wedding- not just settle.
3) Get moving! Dance to the hits of your childhood- it will make you feel better. Turn on your Wii and put in Wii Sports and beat the crap out of something. Do anything to get your blood flowing and to get your mind off of the stress.
4) TURN OFF YOUR PHONE. Chances are the people who were with your during your little episode will want to check on you. This is nice but you need time to get your act together. Call them back- they will understand.
5) Scream. Just go somewhere private and let it out. Stomp and throw a fit- its fine... then walk away composed- leave it behind and move on.
So how do we keep from getting to this point? You need to be realistic and know that not everything is going to go as planned- unless you are planning in cupcakeville. Life happens and things will not go amazingly every day. Surround yourself with people who can calm you down and just remember its ok to be a bit of a spaz sometimes. This is a big day and you want it to be perfect- Don't worry, it will be!
Monday, November 29, 2010
Exciting News
Well- I am starting New Year new you a bit early this year. Tomorrow morning I am moving out of my home office into a small space in a local salon. This is a big move for me but really its just a part of a bigger move that will come mid January. Let's just say that I am looking forward to a more free schedule and more time to dedicate to my Events Planning Passion.
Also I am still selling Pampered Chef- which allows me to not just plan a great Bridal shower for you but to also get you some great products and throw a great show. This is a service I would love to extend to all of my clients- if you book a pampered chef show with me- whatever event you are celebrating it for is free. Meaning that if you want a Bridal Shower- I will plan it and Pamper Chef Consult for you- free of charge.
I am currently working with the Presque Isle Downtown Revitalization Committee on First Night. Which is a great opportunity for me and my business. If you are a local PI business that would be interested in Advertising in the First Night Brochure please get in touch with me ASAP!
Some other exciting things that Events By Jenni will be offering will be a "Party in a box" service. I realize that not every event needs a planner- but I also know the amount of running around that you have to do to plan a great party. Let's make that easier for you- just tell me the age, theme, guest count and I will handle the rest. I will do my best to find you a local baker to get a great cake if you decide not to bake one yourself. These "parties" can be shipped anywhere in the US! I will post some themes and ideas for you in a note shortly!
Also brides to be- do not forget about the upcoming Bridal Expo! Happening February 20th, 2011! Stick around for more information on that as well.
I also want to take this moment to thank you all for your support and Friendship over this past year. It has meant a lot to me. As soon as I get settled in my new office I will post the address and the days that I will be there!
Much Love and Remember to Dream big!
Jenni
Also I am still selling Pampered Chef- which allows me to not just plan a great Bridal shower for you but to also get you some great products and throw a great show. This is a service I would love to extend to all of my clients- if you book a pampered chef show with me- whatever event you are celebrating it for is free. Meaning that if you want a Bridal Shower- I will plan it and Pamper Chef Consult for you- free of charge.
I am currently working with the Presque Isle Downtown Revitalization Committee on First Night. Which is a great opportunity for me and my business. If you are a local PI business that would be interested in Advertising in the First Night Brochure please get in touch with me ASAP!
Some other exciting things that Events By Jenni will be offering will be a "Party in a box" service. I realize that not every event needs a planner- but I also know the amount of running around that you have to do to plan a great party. Let's make that easier for you- just tell me the age, theme, guest count and I will handle the rest. I will do my best to find you a local baker to get a great cake if you decide not to bake one yourself. These "parties" can be shipped anywhere in the US! I will post some themes and ideas for you in a note shortly!
Also brides to be- do not forget about the upcoming Bridal Expo! Happening February 20th, 2011! Stick around for more information on that as well.
I also want to take this moment to thank you all for your support and Friendship over this past year. It has meant a lot to me. As soon as I get settled in my new office I will post the address and the days that I will be there!
Much Love and Remember to Dream big!
Jenni
Sunday, April 11, 2010
April Newsletter
Happy April... if you are getting married in the summer you have close to three or four months till your wedding! Make sure to make your final checklist and start hacking away at it! I hope you are ready and if you have any last minute concerns please do not hesitate to get in touch with me I will do all I can to make sure your big day is perfect for you!
I want all of my brides to love all aspects of their wedding. I want to make sure they love all of the elements as much as they love their dress. Its easy to chose something to please everyone but I think its important that it pleases you. This is your day and you need to make the most of it.
Are you tastes a bit expensive? Make sure you sit down with your vendors and really talk about what you want and be clear with the budget constraints- they may surprise you with some low budget ideas that will give you an arrangement you love. Also make sure to hit the BIG BRIDAL events (ie shows, discount events) and make the most of the connections you have available to you. Enter contests and register at places (sometimes there are special offers when you register).
I think that inspiration boards are a great way for brides to show what they want to everyone involved in the wedding- the smaller version of this is the bridal binder. Put in it things you LOVE and bring it with you to all of your meetings. Talk to your bridal dress shop about the dream dress and see what they can get you in your price range. Bring your decor ideas to the venue and talk to them about how to get a similar look. The key to getting what you want on what you can afford is to let everyone know what you want and how much you can pay. Communicate with your vendors and see what they are able to do- you may be surprised. Make a list of the items you really want and are willing to pay more for and a list of things that are more flexible.
Join a bridal forum such as offbeat bridal tribe or The Knot and talk to other brides about how they did their weddings on a budget without costing the wow factor. If you have hired a planner make sure that you are clear with them about what you are looking for and have them make suggestions for what you can do.
I hope this has been helpful! If you have any questions or want to submit a question for next month please drop me a line!
Best Wishes-
Events by Jenni!
I want all of my brides to love all aspects of their wedding. I want to make sure they love all of the elements as much as they love their dress. Its easy to chose something to please everyone but I think its important that it pleases you. This is your day and you need to make the most of it.
Are you tastes a bit expensive? Make sure you sit down with your vendors and really talk about what you want and be clear with the budget constraints- they may surprise you with some low budget ideas that will give you an arrangement you love. Also make sure to hit the BIG BRIDAL events (ie shows, discount events) and make the most of the connections you have available to you. Enter contests and register at places (sometimes there are special offers when you register).
I think that inspiration boards are a great way for brides to show what they want to everyone involved in the wedding- the smaller version of this is the bridal binder. Put in it things you LOVE and bring it with you to all of your meetings. Talk to your bridal dress shop about the dream dress and see what they can get you in your price range. Bring your decor ideas to the venue and talk to them about how to get a similar look. The key to getting what you want on what you can afford is to let everyone know what you want and how much you can pay. Communicate with your vendors and see what they are able to do- you may be surprised. Make a list of the items you really want and are willing to pay more for and a list of things that are more flexible.
Join a bridal forum such as offbeat bridal tribe or The Knot and talk to other brides about how they did their weddings on a budget without costing the wow factor. If you have hired a planner make sure that you are clear with them about what you are looking for and have them make suggestions for what you can do.
I hope this has been helpful! If you have any questions or want to submit a question for next month please drop me a line!
Best Wishes-
Events by Jenni!
Saturday, March 13, 2010
March News Letter!
It is hard to believe that just one month ago we were all crammed into the
Northeastland Hotel. The excitement I felt from all of the potential brides
(you gals) was amazing! This newsletter is to help you plan your wedding-
and I hope you ask me questions and I will respond to them!
The first topic I want to hit on is making sure that your wedding day is
everything you want it to be regardless of your budget. Everyone thinks that
the big B-Word is a deal breaker for a lot of your plans but it really
isn't. We have all seen the shows "Rich Bride/Poor Bride" and "Platinum
Wedding" and they give us a great idea of what could happen if things got
out of hand. I am here to tell you that you can have your dream wedding on
whatever budget you have by doing some very simple things.
1) Keep it local. With local vendors you do not have to worry so much about
delivery fees. You can either ask people to pick up items or have the items
brought to your venue. However, the cost will not be as much as shipping
items from Portland or Boston.
2) Keep it in season. Flowers are a big chunk of budget the biggest thing is
to keep your flowers in season. Make sure to sit down with your florist and
make them aware of your budget.
3) DIY options. If you are crafty and have tons of time take on some
projects. Get the girls together and make place cards or garland. Most of
the time you can find cheaper options if you do the work yourself.
4) Keep the budget in check. Have an idea of what items on your budget are
flexible and do a bit of give and take. If you know that one item means more
than the other make sure you allocate your budget accordingly.
There are so great tips for the budget end. For the next issue I would love
to be able to answer some of your questions! Please keep in contact with me.
If anyone would like to set up a consultation please contact me via email or
give me a call on my cell phone. (207)540-5499.
Best Wishes!
Jenni LaChance
--
If you can dream it, you can do it.
Northeastland Hotel. The excitement I felt from all of the potential brides
(you gals) was amazing! This newsletter is to help you plan your wedding-
and I hope you ask me questions and I will respond to them!
The first topic I want to hit on is making sure that your wedding day is
everything you want it to be regardless of your budget. Everyone thinks that
the big B-Word is a deal breaker for a lot of your plans but it really
isn't. We have all seen the shows "Rich Bride/Poor Bride" and "Platinum
Wedding" and they give us a great idea of what could happen if things got
out of hand. I am here to tell you that you can have your dream wedding on
whatever budget you have by doing some very simple things.
1) Keep it local. With local vendors you do not have to worry so much about
delivery fees. You can either ask people to pick up items or have the items
brought to your venue. However, the cost will not be as much as shipping
items from Portland or Boston.
2) Keep it in season. Flowers are a big chunk of budget the biggest thing is
to keep your flowers in season. Make sure to sit down with your florist and
make them aware of your budget.
3) DIY options. If you are crafty and have tons of time take on some
projects. Get the girls together and make place cards or garland. Most of
the time you can find cheaper options if you do the work yourself.
4) Keep the budget in check. Have an idea of what items on your budget are
flexible and do a bit of give and take. If you know that one item means more
than the other make sure you allocate your budget accordingly.
There are so great tips for the budget end. For the next issue I would love
to be able to answer some of your questions! Please keep in contact with me.
If anyone would like to set up a consultation please contact me via email or
give me a call on my cell phone. (207)540-5499.
Best Wishes!
Jenni LaChance
--
If you can dream it, you can do it.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Vendor Selection Part one!
Today's topic is a very important one for any bride. Even as a coordinator I know the importance of picking the right vendor because I have to work with these people every day. The reason why you want to make sure you have the right vendor for you is that you are trusting this company or person with an element of your very special day. You want to make sure and interview each vendor and get quotes as well. I will give you some sample questions for each vendor and hopefully that will shed some light onto this for you.
Reception Site:
1) What is the charge? What is included in that rate? How Many Hours will that cover?
2) What is the seating Capacity?
3)How is the parking situation? Is there Valet Parking?
4) Is Catering provided and if not can you provide your own?
5) Is Alcohol provided and if we have to provide our own is there a charge?
6) If we would like to have a band or a DJ is there a place to set them up?
7) Is there a cleanup fee or is that included in the rental?
8) Can we rent other necessities? What are the fees associated with this?
Cake Vendors:
1) Do you have pictures of cakes you have made for other weddings?
2) If we want something different, can you do a customized cake for us?
3) If we need a cake for a certain amount of guests can you do that? How much will that cost?
4) Will you deliver the cake to our reception site? Is there a delivery charge?
5) How far in advance do we need to order the cake?
Catering Vendors:
1) What can you offer us within our budget?
2) What about substitutions for special dietary needs?
3) Will we need to provide our own dishes, silverware, napkins and so on? If you provide them can we see samples?
4) How many servers will there be, and will there be cleanup?
5) Is there a charge to cut and serve the cake?
6) What is the deposit schedule?
7) When Do you need the final count?
These three things are a lot to think about. Tomorrow we will focus just on flowers and music.
Above anything the importance of great selection is that this is YOUR day. You want everything to be perfect and you need to find a vendor who will supply you with what you need. Do not get discouraged right off the bat. If you live in a small area and you think there is only one way to go you may be surprised to find out more by going to bridal expos or just joining forums.
As always the importance of having a coordinator is that they can go with you to these consultations and make sure that the vendor is a reliable one. Coordinators also have a suggested list of vendors they have worked with before.
Good luck!
Reception Site:
1) What is the charge? What is included in that rate? How Many Hours will that cover?
2) What is the seating Capacity?
3)How is the parking situation? Is there Valet Parking?
4) Is Catering provided and if not can you provide your own?
5) Is Alcohol provided and if we have to provide our own is there a charge?
6) If we would like to have a band or a DJ is there a place to set them up?
7) Is there a cleanup fee or is that included in the rental?
8) Can we rent other necessities? What are the fees associated with this?
Cake Vendors:
1) Do you have pictures of cakes you have made for other weddings?
2) If we want something different, can you do a customized cake for us?
3) If we need a cake for a certain amount of guests can you do that? How much will that cost?
4) Will you deliver the cake to our reception site? Is there a delivery charge?
5) How far in advance do we need to order the cake?
Catering Vendors:
1) What can you offer us within our budget?
2) What about substitutions for special dietary needs?
3) Will we need to provide our own dishes, silverware, napkins and so on? If you provide them can we see samples?
4) How many servers will there be, and will there be cleanup?
5) Is there a charge to cut and serve the cake?
6) What is the deposit schedule?
7) When Do you need the final count?
These three things are a lot to think about. Tomorrow we will focus just on flowers and music.
Above anything the importance of great selection is that this is YOUR day. You want everything to be perfect and you need to find a vendor who will supply you with what you need. Do not get discouraged right off the bat. If you live in a small area and you think there is only one way to go you may be surprised to find out more by going to bridal expos or just joining forums.
As always the importance of having a coordinator is that they can go with you to these consultations and make sure that the vendor is a reliable one. Coordinators also have a suggested list of vendors they have worked with before.
Good luck!
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