tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40759501789905051382024-02-07T13:38:47.994-08:00SocializeCreate. Coordinate. Celebrate.Socializehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08632130182529242035noreply@blogger.comBlogger48125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4075950178990505138.post-87529398380449692912010-11-17T17:12:00.000-08:002010-11-17T17:12:55.277-08:00We've Moved!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://journeyhomeburke.files.wordpress.com/2008/01/happy-new-year-fireworks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="http://journeyhomeburke.files.wordpress.com/2008/01/happy-new-year-fireworks.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">I know it's sudden but the Socialize Blog has a new home! You can now check it out <span style="font-size: small;"><b> </b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>on the new Socialize website!! </b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><a href="http://www.socializeevents.com/" target="_self">www.socializeevents.com</a></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://socializeevents.com/blog/">Socialize Blog</a></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b> </b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">P.S. There is a new post up on my Thanksfeast decor inspiration so head on over and check it out</span><span style="font-size: small;">!<b><br />
</b></span></div>Socializehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08632130182529242035noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4075950178990505138.post-26585002741283196932010-11-08T15:05:00.000-08:002010-11-08T15:10:56.189-08:00Thanksfeast!Does anyone else crave Thanksgiving dishes before Turkey Day actually rolls around? Several years ago some friends (including my husband to be) and I decided that we just couldn't wait for the holiday and we better just hold a pre-Thanksgiving training meal. With that, our what-would-become annual "Thanksfeast" was born.<br />
Our Thanksfeast event is essentially an orphan Thanksgiving. However, since of our friends travel home for the holiday it's never held on Thanksgiving. Instead, we gather before the holiday to kick off the holiday season together. Here are some shots of last year's event:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj345xuWxGZl51_maIdxhTbrNK-tvUrxEB7AstPGKX1aBY5HWt8XNGrfQDdaJJiWpVLjUPUo32Aim8FFrUI26Z1hJYsi9HhXdpQW8dLpMPdhNdeGKGN08ogNr4N6y29H8s3v0OBkKGFxFpR/s1600/IMG_4824.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj345xuWxGZl51_maIdxhTbrNK-tvUrxEB7AstPGKX1aBY5HWt8XNGrfQDdaJJiWpVLjUPUo32Aim8FFrUI26Z1hJYsi9HhXdpQW8dLpMPdhNdeGKGN08ogNr4N6y29H8s3v0OBkKGFxFpR/s400/IMG_4824.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Creating the tablescape is by far my favorite part of the planning! </span></i></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-7no07ZhH_HgDue1yZh4-0co6HIwc-r4SkXChRT-uYm_YnDfBb1laQPcnpR6AfRuEGLXq2z3h17zx66lLR-TYtCE8V_NTFwoa-42vvWpa8EHNTPD8KzJ_AZAXQb7XbmQhH9ntuPf8ddYy/s1600/IMG_4828.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-7no07ZhH_HgDue1yZh4-0co6HIwc-r4SkXChRT-uYm_YnDfBb1laQPcnpR6AfRuEGLXq2z3h17zx66lLR-TYtCE8V_NTFwoa-42vvWpa8EHNTPD8KzJ_AZAXQb7XbmQhH9ntuPf8ddYy/s320/IMG_4828.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYbY2MOzwq0BDDf2iy-C2GLg4QG5BmrH2hBWiwJekiiT6zK38dajWL8GPb7_wD_TXOV5qQCYJY181X-XGgvW0mTgnMU-Yh8sxsXzUZhMKD-ptmwc7W9zrwbbFrgN-_H7gReblafsqwjy64/s1600/IMG_4835.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYbY2MOzwq0BDDf2iy-C2GLg4QG5BmrH2hBWiwJekiiT6zK38dajWL8GPb7_wD_TXOV5qQCYJY181X-XGgvW0mTgnMU-Yh8sxsXzUZhMKD-ptmwc7W9zrwbbFrgN-_H7gReblafsqwjy64/s400/IMG_4835.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> I am a firm believer in party favors and also in saving money. Last year, I bought mini-jar candles ($2/each) and personalized them with ribbon and scrapbook stickers. Bonus! They acted as my placecards as well.</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh21btrUNZz3AQDXZg1nJIC5R2-v5RkCtUwhlfBxCpRImQanZDf6so3jIYNhvn9klo1Ni__sEo_NPsUkDdq043OcNrGmYdbz0S4achmg70cmt_Cv4_eNzjKUA8UOerB-meAcWTZ8FNfEMx3/s400/IMG_4837.JPG" width="300" /></div><br />
<br />
My husband and I handle most of the food; including freezing sweet corn from the summer and saving it for the occasion. Our dear friends that we started the annual event with (our guest list has grown since then) always contribute a dish or two. Typically it's a traditional Thanksgiving menu- turkey, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, sweet potatoes, etc. But this year; I would like to throw in some of <a href="http://www.realsimple.com/">Real Simple</a> magazines <a href="http://www.realsimple.com/food-recipes/recipe-collections-favorites/seasonal/thanksgiving-side-dishes-00000000044518/index.html">Scene-Stealing Thanksgiving Side Dishes</a> for a little twist. Yum! Which ones would you choose? <br />
<br />
Due to some scheduling conflicts; Thanksfeast will actually be POST-holiday this year - which gives me a couple extra (much needed!!) weeks to prepare! Keep watching for posts on this year's decor inspiration, invitations and menu planning.Socializehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08632130182529242035noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4075950178990505138.post-35883996324003447232010-11-02T13:03:00.000-07:002010-11-02T13:03:37.023-07:00New PostCheck out Socialize's first <a href="http://www.cafediscala.com/2010/11/02/party/">post </a>debut on the <a href="http://www.cafediscala.com/">Cafe di Scala</a> blog. <br />
I’ve created a list of the aspects of an event you need to consider for planning. Some of these are pretty basic but putting all of them together will create a foundation for a well-organized, successful event.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.cafediscala.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/KC1G0186.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://www.cafediscala.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/11/KC1G0186.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Socializehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08632130182529242035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4075950178990505138.post-13342291339768686772010-10-27T15:46:00.000-07:002010-10-27T15:46:13.550-07:00Check It Out!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It's another exciting day at Socialize! Word just came that <u><i>this</i></u> blog was featured <a href="http://www.cafediscala.com/2010/10/27/favorite-local-blogs-october/">here</a> as one of the <a href="http://www.cafediscala.com/">Cafe di Scala</a>'s favorite local blogs of the month!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.cafediscala.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/Scala-Photo-Outside.jpg" width="308" /></div><br />
I've also been asked to do a guest post for them - so look for that coming soon! In case you haven't heard Cafe di Scala is a fabulous local restaurant that offers something Des Moines could use more of - an opportunity for an exclusive experience.<br />
Don't get me wrong, private party rooms are great and perfectly meet the needs of most events. However, there are times when you want the the space to be completely your own. Cafe di Scala will open their lovely victorian mansion doors to private groups on nights it is not open to the public (Sunday through Wednesday) for lunch and dinner.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDo8RfZx7NFBUZLsj2WfaIXcha9CsSgGGZaOE3JiWjwwGjQpEZXqe0Nlph8RAsDQN6rfaCV-XboOyJtrXNhfqdru5zgAk0UnJnSvsYvDkVfg5MkLhELjBa2kf1ToV4YH-RVyvaWQ5fteMj/s1600/9-e1281630559410.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDo8RfZx7NFBUZLsj2WfaIXcha9CsSgGGZaOE3JiWjwwGjQpEZXqe0Nlph8RAsDQN6rfaCV-XboOyJtrXNhfqdru5zgAk0UnJnSvsYvDkVfg5MkLhELjBa2kf1ToV4YH-RVyvaWQ5fteMj/s320/9-e1281630559410.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
In addition, the staff will consider closing the restaurant just for you on a regular business evening (Thursday through Saturday) depending on the number of guests and budget. Fab food, an award winning wine list and a unique experience. What more could you want?<br />
<br />
<br />
Well, I'm afraid the last few weeks have been all about Socialize. Not to worry. I'll get you some more event planning tips and tricks soon enough!Socializehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08632130182529242035noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4075950178990505138.post-77373034476384513332010-10-20T15:35:00.000-07:002010-10-20T15:35:44.368-07:00How Do I Look?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It's time for the big reveal! My friend TJ has been hard at work crafting the perfect look for Socialize and our fab look was finalized this week. So it's time welcome our lovely little logo to the world! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsK_rIarHI0qIClg-67kwhI7OUJtp4bU5Kb0sf4lIi36K4PdVIgPt-y3gBqyRDKpL_yyBGTZlnIS5o4Pj14meB_VLIruL79g_4Yc6Ot87dqkMyhpJi6aAk-RqA2nUxqI3WynBAzf1iYBir/s1600/socialize+solid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsK_rIarHI0qIClg-67kwhI7OUJtp4bU5Kb0sf4lIi36K4PdVIgPt-y3gBqyRDKpL_yyBGTZlnIS5o4Pj14meB_VLIruL79g_4Yc6Ot87dqkMyhpJi6aAk-RqA2nUxqI3WynBAzf1iYBir/s400/socialize+solid.jpg" width="380" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-yMScpN78X_6OXaFxYmNs8fOS2Ptx0hSGjzYAftbq6F55kr9p4R_vrmtdKXrxYu6Jo2mZDWLUrxrBtCbHWsohVJRXVbV2RQIzbCQqKxPCU23Yh8tZMX0qwhi1reTMMxdR7bo2ZTK_08zh/s1600/socialize+solid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> Hooray! Now watch for the next edition to the Socialize family...<a href="http://www.socializeevents.com/">www.socializeevents.com</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Socializehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08632130182529242035noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4075950178990505138.post-55202823255703136372010-10-18T14:21:00.000-07:002010-10-18T14:21:41.394-07:00We Mean Business!It's a big, exciting day at Socialize! A little paperwork, a signature and a trip to Iowa's Secretary of State office and the government now has one more business to watch over. We even get letters after our name. That's right Socialize, LLC has officially been born!<br />
The final draft of the Socialize logo also popped into the inbox today and will be available for viewing shortly. Stay tuned!!Socializehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08632130182529242035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4075950178990505138.post-20155144995947925372010-10-14T16:50:00.000-07:002010-10-14T16:50:58.781-07:00Wino WitYou can't host <i>every </i>party. So when you attend one, you still want your hostess gift to have a little bit of your party flair, right? Enter these beautifully letterpressed and fantastically witty goodies I came across on the <a href="http://www.hostessblog.com/">Hostess With the Mostes</a>s blog. Now, I'm smitten with <a href="http://popptags.com/">popptags</a>! The perfect way to make your gift of wine even better.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgomR0NrUcNeYVJJPaJtIwW0WeRJQfuUh2Ip9_fTxNb2ff3F-y_MriMDn3iHDy_HPYk2t_lmKeEYz_Px40x6XYKsIKs8FZ5lY2US_Npd25uJgPKVjQ0jRueqQ5IkK4DqeQ-4gzj5Ec4HSgK/s1600/poptags_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="343" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgomR0NrUcNeYVJJPaJtIwW0WeRJQfuUh2Ip9_fTxNb2ff3F-y_MriMDn3iHDy_HPYk2t_lmKeEYz_Px40x6XYKsIKs8FZ5lY2US_Npd25uJgPKVjQ0jRueqQ5IkK4DqeQ-4gzj5Ec4HSgK/s400/poptags_6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.hostessblog.com/2010/10/popptags-wit-wine-design/">source</a></span></i></div><br />
As if wine could get any better? I would love any wine that showed up at my door with one of these:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb04fC29sg_v6O7DdqRVpmmXpjakJeCUSuQinfC0QRT66uQLcVM1ZEpG9Or6nM3wwx2j7xjek3_LmmpXQMvt1Zi7rMBF9MZgmJ6Q4D4oGVg2QEBmRsdLDitB6RG1uLkWnc6UbfR_j1Q-_9/s1600/05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb04fC29sg_v6O7DdqRVpmmXpjakJeCUSuQinfC0QRT66uQLcVM1ZEpG9Or6nM3wwx2j7xjek3_LmmpXQMvt1Zi7rMBF9MZgmJ6Q4D4oGVg2QEBmRsdLDitB6RG1uLkWnc6UbfR_j1Q-_9/s320/05.jpg" width="185" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><a href="http://popptags.com/">popptags.com</a></i></span></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9rRAyG3RAnk8l5oOC64rOksCkctUeJcoS0Wmoq_TglJ1UFhKFvg7v5NFRUpWV8-kYGoroEukx3JNy9HW_4SX1daF7dPBoZH5fcJE5VQ1tEl2ljpbLYL1QS-R1zcTAV2t5ur8MeeFWPnXo/s1600/poptags_31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9rRAyG3RAnk8l5oOC64rOksCkctUeJcoS0Wmoq_TglJ1UFhKFvg7v5NFRUpWV8-kYGoroEukx3JNy9HW_4SX1daF7dPBoZH5fcJE5VQ1tEl2ljpbLYL1QS-R1zcTAV2t5ur8MeeFWPnXo/s320/poptags_31.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.hostessblog.com/2010/10/popptags-wit-wine-design/">source</a></span></i></div><br />
Or any of the <a href="http://popptags.com/buy/#">12 designs that are currently available</a> at 3 for $9.95 (minimum order) and $3.30 for each additional tag. That's less than most Hallmark cards! The ribbon is already attached so all you have to do is sign the back of the tag and slip it over your carefully chosen bottle.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://popptags.com/custom/">Custom orders</a> are also available and perfect for weddings, party favors and the holidays. I think I need to find a reason to make one that says, "Would you like fries with that?"<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh371hM_Lk9cSCC2UtF2dHW9hYbiaH0mBFJFzTcwEaV4RCjk_kTmwoqUPIgyZDWiRM2l0P6OnuR0xqQGwmI7zHIUzSQyReo1K_okf2Psp8kADmTbl8EINwrCvzMMqOxHDT0dxsumApQZ9iz/s1600/winetag+custom_photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh371hM_Lk9cSCC2UtF2dHW9hYbiaH0mBFJFzTcwEaV4RCjk_kTmwoqUPIgyZDWiRM2l0P6OnuR0xqQGwmI7zHIUzSQyReo1K_okf2Psp8kADmTbl8EINwrCvzMMqOxHDT0dxsumApQZ9iz/s320/winetag+custom_photo.jpg" width="282" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><a href="http://popptags.com/">popptags.com</a></i></span></div>Socializehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08632130182529242035noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4075950178990505138.post-60833516770256790242010-10-13T14:55:00.000-07:002010-10-13T14:56:31.451-07:00Pumpkin Carving PartyFor the last few years, my husband and I have gotten together with friends a couple weeks before Halloween to embrace some pumpkin carving fun! None of us have kids (or much artistic ability) but it's still a great reason to get together and an easy gathering to plan. Here is what you'll want to do:<br />
<br />
<b>Pre-determine a location.</b> You are probably not going to want to do this in your house. The grown-ups I know are just as messy as most 5-year-olds and you'll be sweeping up pumpkin seeds on Labor Day. The backyard works well if the weather is still pleasant enough. You can use the garage as shelter from the elements if there's a chill in the air. Wherever you are; clear enough space to give everyone plenty of room to work. <br />
<br />
<b>Gather supplies and prepare the space</b>. Pull out your folding tables if you have them.<br />
Collect newspapers to cover everyone's carving space. Make sure you have enough to give everyone a couple layers.<br />
Put an empty trash can in a central location for most* of the pumpkin seeds. Use a heavy duty trash bag or double up on the household kind. Those seeds get heavy!<br />
Print and set out pumpkin stencils for those who don't want to freehand. Better Homes & Gardens has a huge (and free!) selection <a href="http://www.bhg.com/holidays/halloween/pumpkin-carving/printable-pumpkin-stencils/">here</a>. For some tips on carving with stencils, check out <a href="http://www.pumpkincarving101.com/pumpkin_carving_stencils.html">Pumpkin Carving 101</a>. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGZV5vY9jHGx4zQjlbox26mqzJrzI_WRzxnfNe3EQisNvUuvzNTnGollUdadTOnKW_3DwF-5QimfyOfHKOcBy349lvcprUBxzupXvIsV-aydH1afpwVZPqiajjgVQQsudmUd2cJbw39XJY/s1600/pumpkin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGZV5vY9jHGx4zQjlbox26mqzJrzI_WRzxnfNe3EQisNvUuvzNTnGollUdadTOnKW_3DwF-5QimfyOfHKOcBy349lvcprUBxzupXvIsV-aydH1afpwVZPqiajjgVQQsudmUd2cJbw39XJY/s1600/pumpkin.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Have a sharpie and a pumpkin carving kit for everyone or ask them bring their own. This way, you don't have to sacrifice your good steak knives to a jack-o-lantern.<br />
Have a lot of rags or paper towels on hand.<br />
Finally - have tea lights for each pumpkin!<br />
<br />
<b>Find your perfect pumpkin.</b> We like to make this part of the event for the whole group. Head to your local pumpkin patch so everyone can <a href="http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/artsandliving/weekend/features/2007/pumpkin-carving-101/">select their canvas</a>.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>And a couple suggestions for easy, festive additions!</b><br />
You can't beat hot spiked apple cider to keep everyone warm. Use fresh apple cider, spiced rum and some cinnamon sticks and whole cloves (to taste) <br />
<span class="liGreen"></span><br />
Heat apple cider in a saucepan over medium heat. Add cinnamon sticks and cloves. Stir occasionally. When cider is heated, remove cinnamon sticks and cloves with a slotted spoon. <br />
Pour a shot of rum into a mug, then pour cider over to fill mug. Add a cinnamon stick to stir drink. <br />
<br />
To keep things easy, hold your pumpkin carving party in the evening, post dinner. This way, some light snacks will be sufficient (remember - this is supposed to be an easy one!). Last year, I had some candy corn, Halloween-theme Oreos and some popcorn for guests to snack on. You can also *save the seeds from the first few pumpkins to be gutted. Roast some up using butter/olive oil and salt or this <a href="http://www.fabulousfoods.com/recipes/article/16/17620">recipe from Fabulous Foods</a>. By the time the carving has ended you'll have a seasonal snack ready for your guests.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Let the fun begin!</b><br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy7GJ7-9XhdeMtNC0gMArgjU9DpRfVdQkG8_p9aovZJE78tSSq4HnqEY3mW_LmOsDZABpBynhEGRXZBMnKTTckJ0SXTAktvnSwAoEZG_0Jj5M6v-WMq75yU0ULkM-j3FKkiMA5L_w-_g3I/s1600/IMG_4645.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjy7GJ7-9XhdeMtNC0gMArgjU9DpRfVdQkG8_p9aovZJE78tSSq4HnqEY3mW_LmOsDZABpBynhEGRXZBMnKTTckJ0SXTAktvnSwAoEZG_0Jj5M6v-WMq75yU0ULkM-j3FKkiMA5L_w-_g3I/s320/IMG_4645.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ymow4cQ32o93Tjf8KbP6uHTVcS48r93n0-XeVPydctFoTjJ8FTq7W-56AE8XK52oYoT5V53x47c5_9eRbmKKWl9hzW93s4XYU6BsDkprktEqOmWlweGGfjzlKkHwEDftu6F4lm5ekBPv/s1600/IMG_4643.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><span style="color: black;">Actual 2009 creations.</span></i></span></a></div>Socializehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08632130182529242035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4075950178990505138.post-68842203035117344842010-10-06T17:30:00.000-07:002010-10-06T17:58:14.905-07:00Local Love: Mark KegansI thought it would be nice to sprinkle around some Local Love* posts for the some of the fabulous vendors <a href="http://www.socializeevents.com/">Socialize</a> has had the opportunity to work with and probably some of those we hope to work with in Central Iowa!<br />
<br />
For the inaugural Local Love post - I am actually going with someone I worked with on a more personal level - my wedding photographer, <a href="http://www.markkegans.com/">Mark Kegans</a>. But don't worry -I had already been in the event biz for three years by the time I worked with him so he was carefully evaluated with my already developed event planning eye!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA2pNMP7lN26PfG-zoOptejeJBGnIj_VtbcMfOJRdYRbeQYFdLNR-JHcqbnIgYDRGgP_3P60BuQoa5Rgx1XitxGXB2QsfjhgQHoGz6d4Y9Ba_V2g0LeANw73kjYQDuZ3QZbeXk7tVuibdM/s1600/mark2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA2pNMP7lN26PfG-zoOptejeJBGnIj_VtbcMfOJRdYRbeQYFdLNR-JHcqbnIgYDRGgP_3P60BuQoa5Rgx1XitxGXB2QsfjhgQHoGz6d4Y9Ba_V2g0LeANw73kjYQDuZ3QZbeXk7tVuibdM/s400/mark2.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>All photos are the work of <a href="http://www.markkegans.com/">Mark Kegans</a>. This photo is of my lovely friend, <a href="http://3b7p.blogspot.com/">Alexson</a>. In the background is Iowa's great State Capitol building in the Des Moines East Village.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Mark truly is a photojournalist at heart. What keeps him busy these days is his wedding business but he'll still to things for some small-time publications; like the <a href="http://travel.nytimes.com/2009/10/30/travel/escapes/30desmoines.html?hpw">New York Times</a>. I think explaining Mark's style is best put in his own words (from the "What the FAQ" section of his website). </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">"You get dressed up, say your vows, party, dance and fall in love all over again. I take pictures. Documentary, photojournalistic, reportage, lifestyle, candid, ninja, whatever you want to call it, it means that I work as the proverbial 'fly on the wall.' I don’t direct. I don’t work off of preconceived 'must-have' shot lists. My goal is to capture your wedding and all its glorious, messy reality."</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.markkegans.com/gallery/medium/B_0010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://www.markkegans.com/gallery/medium/B_0010.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.markkegans.com/gallery/medium/B_0027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://www.markkegans.com/gallery/medium/B_0027.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Mark takes beautiful, REAL images away from whatever he shoots. He understands the importance of the obligatory formal shots but his true talent shines through when he is telling the story of your day in his images. Don't worry brides - he will follow your must-take shots but the more free and photojournalistic you allow him to be - the more you are going to love your photos.</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.markkegans.com/gallery/medium/C_0028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://www.markkegans.com/gallery/medium/C_0028.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.markkegans.com/gallery/medium/D_0017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://www.markkegans.com/gallery/medium/D_0017.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.markkegans.com/gallery/medium/A_0001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://www.markkegans.com/gallery/medium/A_0001.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
Mark searches for the quirk and humor in the day and I think generally, the human experience. But I think his favorite part of what he does is that he gets to capture a day full of love. This means his shots of the new bride and groom try to capture all of the emotion and beauty of the day.</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.markkegans.com/gallery/medium/A_0012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="229" src="http://www.markkegans.com/gallery/medium/A_0012.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.markkegans.com/gallery/medium/A_0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="http://www.markkegans.com/gallery/medium/A_0003.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://www.markkegans.com/gallery/medium/A_0022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="http://www.markkegans.com/gallery/medium/A_0022.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://www.markkegans.com/gallery/medium/C_0021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://www.markkegans.com/gallery/medium/C_0021.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="http://www.markkegans.com/gallery/medium/A_0021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://www.markkegans.com/gallery/medium/A_0021.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I still pull Mark's photos from <a href="http://setforcelebrating.blogspot.com/2010/06/my-wedding-day.html">my wedding day</a> out at least once a month. Each one reminds me of some special moment or image that I treasure from that day and get to re-live, just a little. (For anyone who want to see more o<span style="font-size: small;">f what those in the biz like to call "wedding porn" - you can check more of my very own wedding shots here: </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: separate; color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; orphans: 2; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://mkegans.zenfolio.com/p39223348/" style="color: #0000cc; font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;" target="_blank">http://mkegans.zenfolio.com/p39223348/</a><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"> password: shinkunas)</span></span></span></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">As Mark's website states, "If you really, truly, madly, deeply love good photography and gotta have it for your wedding or family;" contact him. I highly recommend that you do!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.markkegans.com/gallery/medium/D_0020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://www.markkegans.com/gallery/medium/D_0020.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><i>*Socialize blog's Local Love posts are not sponsored and will not be available for sponsorship.</i></div>Socializehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08632130182529242035noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4075950178990505138.post-72874806864381339052010-09-30T18:38:00.000-07:002010-09-30T18:43:59.439-07:00Halloween Color SchemeFor whatever reason, I struggle with transitioning my home decorations to Halloween before October. September just doesn't feel right to me - not quite summer but not ready to be fall. It's kind of a month of limbo in our house. But this weekend I'll make the switch. Fortunately there are a lot of great Halloween party and home decor ideas out there already! Enough that the main challenge may be just to pick a color scheme.<br />
<br />
You can go with the traditional black and orange:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw4jXVh1eqbvOt7H6svTwYXBE7sH6CTMf-kCPpfzAi_r5-gM7hLg8k4ZvNq3Fx3EIbpIcPnK2THipKsQHk936LLxguNTZ-p8Wdu7FC1I1pfbIB9toBVimgaxbqt6V1NrlScRYUPI2y6f7x/s1600/halloween-pumpkins-craft-ribbons-fb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFj3xlEWXBwbuSQk2ahzmNmXsF0WgrZ7bs48JxTZg3Xvao2LAxp_fYhbRKiA6n6rP8cngi1YeX3xxVBI0zepEqlCoM9n0KdwMFPBS8hXVekyMYAU2zyBJyn6u1RiPpFR1BnEGk0NnAcj2B/s1600/halloween-pumpkins-decorating-fb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFj3xlEWXBwbuSQk2ahzmNmXsF0WgrZ7bs48JxTZg3Xvao2LAxp_fYhbRKiA6n6rP8cngi1YeX3xxVBI0zepEqlCoM9n0KdwMFPBS8hXVekyMYAU2zyBJyn6u1RiPpFR1BnEGk0NnAcj2B/s320/halloween-pumpkins-decorating-fb.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/holiday-ideas/no-carve-pumpkin-decorating?click=main_sr">source</a></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.marthastewart.com/images/content/pub/special_issues/2009Q4//msd104470_hal09_pumpkinfaces_xl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://images.marthastewart.com/images/content/pub/special_issues/2009Q4//msd104470_hal09_pumpkinfaces_xl.jpg" width="256" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/photogallery/halloween-decorating#slide_8">source</a></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://images.marthastewart.com/images/content/pub/special_issues/2009Q4//msd104470_hal09_pumpkinfaces_xl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.167089658.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.167089658.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/54119602/printable-happy-halloween-design">source</a></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span id="goog_138075898"></span><span id="goog_138075899"></span><a href="http://draft.blogger.com/"></a></div><br />
<br />
Throw in some silver to glam it up a bit:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn.hostessblog.com/wp-content/uploads/uploaded_images/wickedbling_halloweenparty_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="323" src="http://cdn.hostessblog.com/wp-content/uploads/uploaded_images/wickedbling_halloweenparty_4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn.hostessblog.com/wp-content/uploads/uploaded_images/wickedbling_halloweenparty_14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="http://cdn.hostessblog.com/wp-content/uploads/uploaded_images/wickedbling_halloweenparty_14.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.hostessblog.com/2009/10/real-parties-wicked-bling-halloween-part-1-cocktail-party-candy-bar/"><u><i>source</i></u></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Or you could go the way of Wicked and use the purple and green inspiration from <a href="http://tomkatstudio.blogspot.com/">The TomKat Studio</a> for your festivities:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ScLMQmTnG8k/TJAaCdZxrpI/AAAAAAAAEog/S9jcAyaRI4E/s1600/dessert+table+full.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ScLMQmTnG8k/TJAaCdZxrpI/AAAAAAAAEog/S9jcAyaRI4E/s400/dessert+table+full.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ScLMQmTnG8k/TJAcpHhTnaI/AAAAAAAAEow/f6x4DejZHyI/s1600/lollipops+candle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ScLMQmTnG8k/TJAcpHhTnaI/AAAAAAAAEow/f6x4DejZHyI/s320/lollipops+candle.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://tomkatstudio.blogspot.com/2010/09/new-to-shop-halloween-glam-collection.html">source</a></span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pizzazzerie.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/Pizzazeries-Witches-Brew-Party-by-Kristen-Steele-Photography12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="http://www.pizzazzerie.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/Pizzazeries-Witches-Brew-Party-by-Kristen-Steele-Photography12.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><a href="http://www.pizzazzerie.com/parties/holidays/witches-dinner-party/">source</a></i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ScLMQmTnG8k/TJAaBP9G0fI/AAAAAAAAEoY/aeLK-5EhRig/s1600/dessert+table+close.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><div style="text-align: left;">And now, Pizzazzerie and <a href="http://andersruff.blogspot.com/">Anders Ruff</a> created a whole new option with their recent Pink-O-Ween collaboration:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://blog.amyatlas.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/Pink-O-Ween-067.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://blog.amyatlas.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/Pink-O-Ween-067.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://blog.amyatlas.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/vertical4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="http://blog.amyatlas.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/vertical4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
<br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://blog.amyatlas.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/Pink-O-Ween-037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://blog.amyatlas.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/Pink-O-Ween-037.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blog.amyatlas.com/2010/09/pink-o-ween-guest-dessert-feature/">source</a></div><br />
So what's your plan for Halloween party decorations?<br />
<br />
Socializehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08632130182529242035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4075950178990505138.post-15087148339635375022010-09-27T15:02:00.000-07:002010-09-27T15:02:12.251-07:00Event Extras: Pimp Your Powder RoomPop quiz: What's the one space that many but not all of your event guests will use; but usually gets left out of the event decor plan? Think about it. The bathroom is probably one of the few other areas in your home or venue that a large portion of your guests will visit. Why not tie it in with the rest of the festivities?<br />
<br />
The <a href="http://www.bridescouts.com/2010/09/22/bricolage-ladies-room/">Bride Scouts</a> show us how to do just that with a photoshoot they did for <a href="http://www.stylemepretty.com/">Style Me Pretty</a>. Check out their post <a href="http://www.bridescouts.com/2010/09/22/bricolage-ladies-room/">here</a> for a few more tips on how they customized the display. It's a great take on the dessert buffet craze, don't you think?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7jd5qFMj_6-WpXc64TcP-xlArCKFE0oX8YZBFvCCCt7K6liABOo0BNcsMqZNuK4soqtHWp_C-rV7Hq54z9uaAQms5PBscQtsj_RNy-p-7_6mMorLJQrd-KGb29crd9ZiqE3PxHKwJvGUw/s1600/bathroom+buffet1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7jd5qFMj_6-WpXc64TcP-xlArCKFE0oX8YZBFvCCCt7K6liABOo0BNcsMqZNuK4soqtHWp_C-rV7Hq54z9uaAQms5PBscQtsj_RNy-p-7_6mMorLJQrd-KGb29crd9ZiqE3PxHKwJvGUw/s400/bathroom+buffet1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAvD49lTmeaE3J0z31JSaGUp8JcdDVVfjloGi1guUqkwAkrcjnZK6rIKlsKkyg2PN6qM5hT_sMCNjolFVhrktqMn8z_e4Xt6F-F9pCbqp302QZMMqdm9evd1BezvUQiKOTRjm05YSwGee-/s1600/bathroom+buffet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAvD49lTmeaE3J0z31JSaGUp8JcdDVVfjloGi1guUqkwAkrcjnZK6rIKlsKkyg2PN6qM5hT_sMCNjolFVhrktqMn8z_e4Xt6F-F9pCbqp302QZMMqdm9evd1BezvUQiKOTRjm05YSwGee-/s400/bathroom+buffet.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-QhJiWiDCP0xcim-_Cx-O9X0fEisqmrQEqVE4b5xQd9XTPb1Uw5p0vOQ2MNKcI81AskGgPRRw487_n96ukHOCo2lMQIwuAYl_0seTO0jv6F4D7fx1Idtur32bpccrTzPs-1NRrVLeByvB/s1600/bathroom+buffet2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-QhJiWiDCP0xcim-_Cx-O9X0fEisqmrQEqVE4b5xQd9XTPb1Uw5p0vOQ2MNKcI81AskGgPRRw487_n96ukHOCo2lMQIwuAYl_0seTO0jv6F4D7fx1Idtur32bpccrTzPs-1NRrVLeByvB/s400/bathroom+buffet2.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJb1KGfd7Izgz8Br5_oBXQflcGdh5oqekIN-Or8riwuM8qvzRK1WZ6s2WxIjCCMg9LpxMAIZTdH8z8Mq3dIHZo9tYj3x9UUzr-KqrM-dyiuuJawkvvgl-nZ-FTre3iW-Bweoun_4amP30_/s1600/bathroom+buffet3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJb1KGfd7Izgz8Br5_oBXQflcGdh5oqekIN-Or8riwuM8qvzRK1WZ6s2WxIjCCMg9LpxMAIZTdH8z8Mq3dIHZo9tYj3x9UUzr-KqrM-dyiuuJawkvvgl-nZ-FTre3iW-Bweoun_4amP30_/s320/bathroom+buffet3.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
I am a huge believer in providing bathroom baskets for any gathering. But if you have a venue that will accomodate it; a display like this is a lovely way to let your guests know how much you appreciate them. Mints, handtowels, soaps and cotton swabs are wonderful to have in the bathroom. Since you won't be worried about minimizing things for photo purposes; you'll want to include a few more basics. I recommend including:<br />
<br />
Bobby pins<br />
Ponytail holders<br />
Safety pins<br />
Shout wipes<br />
Lint Roller<br />
Feminine products <br />
Spray deodorant (choose whatever brand is best suited to your color palette, naturally)<br />
Band-aids<br />
Hairspray<br />
Tylenol/Ibuprofen<br />
Antacid <br />
Contact Solution<br />
Floss<br />
Nail Clippers<br />
<br />
The list can go on but these items will help people survive most situations that they may not be prepared for (blisters from new shoes, sauce spilled on their shirt, etc.). And if you don't have a whole vanity to dedicated to the amenities; use a smaller basket and one stand for a more limited display. I'm willing to bet that at least one of your guests will find something that saves the day for them!Socializehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08632130182529242035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4075950178990505138.post-58799855808379049632010-09-24T05:13:00.000-07:002010-09-24T05:13:55.205-07:00Oktoberfest - Des Moines StyleOne last Oktoberfest post before I get ready for the tapping of the golden keg this afternoon. Check out <a href="http://desmoines.metromix.com/events/article/oktoberfest-back-where-it/2200428/content">this</a> story on the Des Moines Oktoberfest celebration. It covers an example of when a major change did NOT work in making the event more successful but was definitely worth a try. Now the Des Moines Oktoberfest is making what I think will be a triumphant return to it's original location.<br />
<br />
Added bonus: great tips on what a Burgermeister does. Another great addition to your Oktoberfest party!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span id="goog_693030464"><span id="goog_2005486448"></span><span id="goog_2005486455"></span></span><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVDJpp0km2Kzc4pmJRfSXhF5UAw1c2GHyMVlbxrB7UnIyrTgKvILZDPPng2rAZ13A69uZbHepYlzSw10vRVsYgx8AIU2kgG-AED2gtiLEnCl8t4o0Q_W7fofZygufBcG88v-NCo_mLWJMm/s320/bilde.jpg" width="320" /><span id="goog_2005486456"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
<span id="goog_2005486449"></span></div>Socializehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08632130182529242035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4075950178990505138.post-10766176718550093522010-09-22T18:37:00.000-07:002010-09-24T04:50:38.342-07:00An Oktoberfest of Your OwnConsidering <a href="http://setforcelebrating.blogspot.com/2010/09/oktoberfest-by-numbers.html">some of the stats</a> from Germany's Oktoberfest, it may not be something you can replicate exactly in your own backyard. But here are a few ideas on how you could do it on a *slightly* smaller scale.<br />
<br />
<ul><li>If you don't want to rent and set-up a tent; take a cue from some of the building/tent roofs at Oktoberfest. This look can be replicated fairly easily with a little rope or wire and streamers a la the blogosphere darling Max & Margaux wedding.</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span id="goog_1308131989"><span id="goog_1308131992"></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjipPGnBOzTshhy9LTjtCBR2ec0d78TCbkmAMoyAccLIKHQm9ZuzmiX43m-xKqVcVqnojZOjEMyzLHKKK2l7ui75iBimPgs3XdRAeRqf2ohKg_kcFFIlCr_Pfn-Ufkgv28eWjysVkUiSGnF/s1600/Oktoberfest1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjipPGnBOzTshhy9LTjtCBR2ec0d78TCbkmAMoyAccLIKHQm9ZuzmiX43m-xKqVcVqnojZOjEMyzLHKKK2l7ui75iBimPgs3XdRAeRqf2ohKg_kcFFIlCr_Pfn-Ufkgv28eWjysVkUiSGnF/s400/Oktoberfest1.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span id="goog_1308131993"></span><span id="goog_1308131990"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNkWIkhxE1f8vtDGjLU9EztQfUve0VvNs1aZVRA08tIlz3kJU16wRke8h_dO3ZtSXneX_tf8oMJbOCGWsVB-_kgD6MjPlYuJD36aebezRG_dwtSxQA5FGEeIOH-P7QCTBo-1JwJv96FK8/s1600/FlashDancepost028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNkWIkhxE1f8vtDGjLU9EztQfUve0VvNs1aZVRA08tIlz3kJU16wRke8h_dO3ZtSXneX_tf8oMJbOCGWsVB-_kgD6MjPlYuJD36aebezRG_dwtSxQA5FGEeIOH-P7QCTBo-1JwJv96FK8/s320/FlashDancepost028.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bash-blog.com/2010/07/max-margaux.html"><span id="goog_1308132003"></span><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span id="goog_1308131998"></span><span id="goog_1308132006"></span><span id="goog_1308132014"></span><span id="goog_1308132019"></span><span id="goog_1308132034"></span><span id="goog_1308132031"></span></span></i><span id="goog_1308132036"></span><span id="goog_1308132037"></span><span id="goog_1308132047"></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.bash-blog.com/2010/07/max-margaux.html"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">source</span></i></a></div><ul><li>Finding some authentic Oktoberfest tables like these might be a little tough unless you have someone who wants to build them (or drop some cash on one <a href="http://www.beergardentables.com/product/BIERGARTENTABLE/Biergarten-Folding-Wood-Table-and-Bench-Set.html">here</a>). But to get that bier hall feeling, a wooden picnic table will do the trick. For centerpieces, fill a few beer steins with flowers or wheat/hops and line them down the center of the table. <a href="http://partycheap.com/"></a></li>
</ul><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/svenwerk/1439747938/" title="Empty Oktoberfest by svenwerk, on Flickr"><img alt="Empty Oktoberfest" height="240" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1025/1439747938_63b7c27b9a_m.jpg" width="165" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/svenwerk/1439747938/"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>source </i></span></a></div><br />
And although I couldn't find a photo from Oktoberfest that actually shows this runner on a table; it does add to the Bavarian theme and can be ordered from quite a few websites including <a href="http://partycheap.com/">partycheap.com.</a><br />
<a href="http://partycheap.com/"> </a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjECn2MJP1Nl0E5u6aruZ2ohDccTee4iPd8mFAGT64onGZ4q_ZOc9QsOMNanupXA8Z7BV_O4WzFKkDJjXZQcpkjMwUG94yo_BM1cxPjt90aMHK9U_Jy-2asjy92I7he1cGHg1I7CUtlvztB/s1600/tables2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjECn2MJP1Nl0E5u6aruZ2ohDccTee4iPd8mFAGT64onGZ4q_ZOc9QsOMNanupXA8Z7BV_O4WzFKkDJjXZQcpkjMwUG94yo_BM1cxPjt90aMHK9U_Jy-2asjy92I7he1cGHg1I7CUtlvztB/s1600/tables2.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<ul><li>Even if you don't have an Oom Pah Band, you'll still need <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Worlds-Greatest-Package-Various-Artists/dp/B000003B9V/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&s=music&qid=1285201710&sr=1-3">Polka</a> music. My personal favorites are The Beer Barrel Polka and In Heaven There is No Beer. </li>
</ul><br />
<ul><li>For the food, how about some <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/emeril-lagasse/bratwurst-cooked-in-beer-with-apple-sauerkraut-recipe/index.html">Bratwurst with Apple Sauerkraut</a>, <a href="http://www.celebrations.com/content/german-potato-salad">German Potato Salad</a> and <a href="http://www.cdkitchen.com/recipes/recs/352/Aunt_Annies_Soft_Pretzels13849.shtml">pretzels</a> (you can always cheat and find these in the freezer section of the grocery store too!) Although some 58,000 pork knuckles are consumed at the Munich festival; we won't get that authentic. </li>
</ul><div><div style="background-color: transparent; border: medium none; color: black; overflow: hidden; text-align: left; text-decoration: none;"><ul><li>To add just a little more fun, give everyone a <a href="http://www.partycheap.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=66898&click=6103">Tyrolean</a> hat and set up a photo booth. Beer steins, aprons, talk bubbles with German phrases (Wilkommen! Prost! Danke Schon) and lederhosen could make for some great props. You could also go the route of the <a href="http://www.hessenhaus.com/%20">Hessen Haus</a> in Des Moines which hosts the <a href="http://www.oktoberfestdsm.com/">local Oktoberfest</a> that I'll be joining:</li>
</ul><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ow.ly/i/3Bl4" target="_blank"><img alt="Owly Images" src="http://static.ow.ly/photos/normal/3Bl4.jpg" /></a> </div></div></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><ul><li>It should go without saying that you'll also want to have some German beer on hand. Add c<a href="http://www.toppartyideas.com/Themes/OktoberfestPartySupplies.php?psps_search=Beer+Label">ustom labels</a> with names like Smithsteiner. And to drink it, you'll need</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgccYUMMNlcv-2HYLFXCShWtqM06fXrfdaM6u62Kty8hgFgYdj_FJcstvTN5sQBdG38QFWXVaHinRbAmRXJu2netDhy4495vyINO_p4sns7dzpNCK5K407Z4Fi3WPSY9W2XGxSDN2u6q8_4/s1600/das+boot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgccYUMMNlcv-2HYLFXCShWtqM06fXrfdaM6u62Kty8hgFgYdj_FJcstvTN5sQBdG38QFWXVaHinRbAmRXJu2netDhy4495vyINO_p4sns7dzpNCK5K407Z4Fi3WPSY9W2XGxSDN2u6q8_4/s320/das+boot.jpg" width="179" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b>DAS BOOT!!!! </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Or at the very least, some large steins for all. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.cs.cmu.edu/%7Elanthony/personal/vacation/germany-pix/beer-steins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://www.cs.cmu.edu/%7Elanthony/personal/vacation/germany-pix/beer-steins.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.cs.cmu.edu/%7Elanthony/personal/vacation/augsburg-germany.htm"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">source</span></i></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><i>Prost!</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><span id="goog_1308132000"></span><span id="goog_1308132001"></span><a href="http://draft.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_1308132008"></span><span id="goog_1308132009"></span><a href="http://draft.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_1308132038"></span><span id="goog_1308132039"></span><a href="http://draft.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_1308132040"></span><span id="goog_1308132041"></span><a href="http://draft.blogger.com/"></a>Socializehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08632130182529242035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4075950178990505138.post-21647517493460331742010-09-21T18:55:00.000-07:002010-09-21T19:17:31.850-07:00Oktoberfest by the NumbersFor 200 years; ze Germans have been doing it right with an annual festival in Munich known around the world. Of course, we're talking <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oktoberfest">Oktoberfest</a>. This year, the beerfest will be held from September 18th through October 3rd. But Oktoberfest is more than beer right? It's all about sauerkraut, pretzels, wursts, polka and well, mostly beer.<br />
Approximately six million people attend the event over those 16 days. That calls for some massive production skills just for set-up to house all those people. Think about all of the food and beer you would need! Here are some 2007 stats from <a href="http://www.wikipedia.com/">Wikipedia</a>:<br />
<h3><span class="mw-headline" id="Oktoberfest_figures_.282007.29">Oktoberfest figures (2007)</span></h3><ul><li>Area: 0.42 km<sup>2</sup> (103.78 acres)</li>
<li>Seats in the festival halls: approx. 100,000</li>
<li>Visitors: 6.2 million</li>
<li>Beer: appr. 6,940,600 litres <i>(1,833,512.55 US gallons)</i></li>
<li>Wine: 79,624 liters <i>(21,034 US gallons)</i></li>
<li>Sparkling wine: 32,047 litres <i>(8,465.9 US gallons)</i></li>
<li>Coffee and tea: 222,725 litres <i>(58,837.7 US gallons)</i></li>
<li>Water and lemonade: 909,765½ litres <i>(240,334.6 US gallons)</i></li>
<li>Chicken: 521,872 units</li>
<li>Pork sausages: 142,253 pairs</li>
<li>Fish: 38,650 kg</li>
<li>Pork knuckles: 58,446 units</li>
<li>Oxen: 104 units</li>
<li>Expenditure of electricity: 2.8 million kWh (as much as 14% of Munich's daily need or as much as a four person family will need in 560 years)</li>
<li>Expenditure of gas: about 205,000 m³</li>
<li>Expenditure of water: about 90,000 m³ (as much as 27% of Munich's daily need)</li>
<li>Waste: 678 <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tonne" title="Tonne">t</a> (2004)</li>
<li>Toilets: about 980 seats, more than 878 meters of urinals and 17 for disabled persons</li>
<li>Phone booths: 83, also for international credit cards</li>
<li>Lost property: about 4000 items, among them 260 pairs of glasses, 200 mobile phones, wedding rings, and even crutches.</li>
<li><span class="editsection"></span>Nearly 1,000 tons of garbage result annually from the Oktoberfest. </li>
</ul><br />
To give you an idea of where all of those people and pork knuckles go; here are some shots of the set-up of the <a href="http://www.hb-festzelt.de/en/festzelt.html">Hofbräu-Festzelt tent</a>. It is the largest of 14 tents at the festival, holding 9,992 people (FYI - that's five times the size of the town I grew up in).<br />
<br />
Materials are delivered from storage and construction begins on July 15th:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6LoXREozxwAmL9qCbcXOiMslhkb_djIPGR9eaHfzd62sCS3ILV5uXMSbRSOSxNDsMUnNBxEYS0ybuZfb43PAFPJHgdck6RWPtg5I8R6gF4vQ3iQ7qkzgxQ84bO5HmzhoRaP0YTCDXioki/s1600/001const.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6LoXREozxwAmL9qCbcXOiMslhkb_djIPGR9eaHfzd62sCS3ILV5uXMSbRSOSxNDsMUnNBxEYS0ybuZfb43PAFPJHgdck6RWPtg5I8R6gF4vQ3iQ7qkzgxQ84bO5HmzhoRaP0YTCDXioki/s1600/001const.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsWkj4Jky-zBukEeWa13qhK1JTKQjlZy-D9keVs1nqb6PLAORbtMajuq9wDJwvc-FyfNJuLjHBHsM3SP7IugmOYSk4xzbAFxjE5drQkWaKZUEBoUxKR1V_KIf0sMrJnXhjfFxf9tBA3PMz/s1600/002const.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsWkj4Jky-zBukEeWa13qhK1JTKQjlZy-D9keVs1nqb6PLAORbtMajuq9wDJwvc-FyfNJuLjHBHsM3SP7IugmOYSk4xzbAFxjE5drQkWaKZUEBoUxKR1V_KIf0sMrJnXhjfFxf9tBA3PMz/s1600/002const.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizf9JIRKC2ezLRNii5lYIpdy4J1grtdqQbWgymAoBKq4jG9IqddXyT48AhuN-UBZC1gilpa8fh_tEqxTjBhgSI8nTXphYTibHKLneRg9_PFCFgDLk9kU2UxqGE7BSiesi0uAMG2CXCae0c/s1600/004const.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizf9JIRKC2ezLRNii5lYIpdy4J1grtdqQbWgymAoBKq4jG9IqddXyT48AhuN-UBZC1gilpa8fh_tEqxTjBhgSI8nTXphYTibHKLneRg9_PFCFgDLk9kU2UxqGE7BSiesi0uAMG2CXCae0c/s1600/004const.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8AwcUDSb8uz1LTQASiGh4epI3PfUKs26MF1ewCYtliE_sZIQ0nkfoRQ_HdZ_tvyKvsf6WUoWfYu807I48evuXIB-H8SYF46dc6HyczX-6HbTDgYoyIQ8LPu64Nms3oDnRch31QnhNWJhT/s1600/008const.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8AwcUDSb8uz1LTQASiGh4epI3PfUKs26MF1ewCYtliE_sZIQ0nkfoRQ_HdZ_tvyKvsf6WUoWfYu807I48evuXIB-H8SYF46dc6HyczX-6HbTDgYoyIQ8LPu64Nms3oDnRch31QnhNWJhT/s1600/008const.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQiB9YU4i7-7nNt8GiD-wB1DTVaOA0bne4fr0P94eBlZirighrjC6BxPRBlmN1vGthb11tFGAg2G7jmy-szkqUtczCb1JAD-tXKW_cA8LhY8fg-xTwd0AzlBZcp20weoCsf4lp0UmPnbc1/s1600/010const.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQiB9YU4i7-7nNt8GiD-wB1DTVaOA0bne4fr0P94eBlZirighrjC6BxPRBlmN1vGthb11tFGAg2G7jmy-szkqUtczCb1JAD-tXKW_cA8LhY8fg-xTwd0AzlBZcp20weoCsf4lp0UmPnbc1/s1600/010const.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpG3gCMjeMZ136xnPqJJUoxavl3hgzkyCW1w3H5IQ6GmHNyxgZ42GYJQrXJUHJKl38rrRl7xluo_AP-nZO2JvWXb_kjhDYtJcTkbzO7_fGLiCCeUJcFmTicrkA6Sm5y4wBNkIQaMU0oHnG/s1600/012const.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpG3gCMjeMZ136xnPqJJUoxavl3hgzkyCW1w3H5IQ6GmHNyxgZ42GYJQrXJUHJKl38rrRl7xluo_AP-nZO2JvWXb_kjhDYtJcTkbzO7_fGLiCCeUJcFmTicrkA6Sm5y4wBNkIQaMU0oHnG/s1600/012const.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbskNIZI35K6e2HkJrW4sPxnzbCVkEiE28sXHnghJu_AYIt6QmkncuY1XgPs5XFNOKlgkhTNQS9W0xSVdvLQqFcAYRS7gIZeD-rwlKz3zANW0LyRddaAzAElAsVcUPQpjFv52PPteXlI2S/s1600/014const.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbskNIZI35K6e2HkJrW4sPxnzbCVkEiE28sXHnghJu_AYIt6QmkncuY1XgPs5XFNOKlgkhTNQS9W0xSVdvLQqFcAYRS7gIZeD-rwlKz3zANW0LyRddaAzAElAsVcUPQpjFv52PPteXlI2S/s1600/014const.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF3UaBb7qGtv7ygApBIdrH6YKURwdro-m2JVXJtTCsbT7JTXjH9dKxHJHMGnrsvQbgCWx7RPojdAYq6TfqP-1B00O8qa9YUhYUF_hnmzSJd2v_UlPWfp79QJhEdQ4zDevgqq6lGWZEAdaM/s1600/016const.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF3UaBb7qGtv7ygApBIdrH6YKURwdro-m2JVXJtTCsbT7JTXjH9dKxHJHMGnrsvQbgCWx7RPojdAYq6TfqP-1B00O8qa9YUhYUF_hnmzSJd2v_UlPWfp79QJhEdQ4zDevgqq6lGWZEAdaM/s1600/016const.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiebyWnAku0Y7zNt_gR2BzdxKjQ4hmfytgOVCN61q0GkAXPylGhmbXlM1sojf0DNo8IG2HgBd-oIpl1l3E-mql-MJ5J7Nn_LIcc1s-aI1gIcoZO-weT_kU-hYyjaVd3RMqVTxM9B8e3cmxD/s1600/017const.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiebyWnAku0Y7zNt_gR2BzdxKjQ4hmfytgOVCN61q0GkAXPylGhmbXlM1sojf0DNo8IG2HgBd-oIpl1l3E-mql-MJ5J7Nn_LIcc1s-aI1gIcoZO-weT_kU-hYyjaVd3RMqVTxM9B8e3cmxD/s1600/017const.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>On September 5th about 1300 pounds of hops are delivered to be used as the main decor of the tents interior (see last two photos). After training the 280 people who will staff the tent during Oktoberfest, the Hofbräu-Festzelt party is ready to go!<br />
<br />
Check back tomorrow and we'll share some ideas on how to throw your own Oktoberfest party - hopefully without generating 1,000 pounds of garbage.<br />
<br />
<b><i>Prost!</i></b>Socializehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08632130182529242035noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4075950178990505138.post-32590504304366350812010-09-16T16:34:00.000-07:002010-09-16T16:38:32.821-07:00What I Love Most About Mercedes Benz Fashion WeekHint: It's not the fashion!<br />
<br />
I love fashion and designers and all of the glamour and gorgeousness that goes along with New York (now Mercedes Benz) Fashion week. Trust me, I see some of the photos of the incredible clothes and my heart aches to be a millionaire and be able to wear those things.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijJbxSVCwpSmaC9fBrMYqiu37uAdXQIFS38S_oWT0_Pel14hdf8BX_4h9zWvJs41mI_QqwzGjSe2Z3W2tglKe7mwD4VqznLLjN4YrvG4-GEPaZJVdbVFkg58uM1pzlyY6LW5E-qS2YQunC/s1600/6a00d8341c630a53ef0134872cce22970c-600wi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijJbxSVCwpSmaC9fBrMYqiu37uAdXQIFS38S_oWT0_Pel14hdf8BX_4h9zWvJs41mI_QqwzGjSe2Z3W2tglKe7mwD4VqznLLjN4YrvG4-GEPaZJVdbVFkg58uM1pzlyY6LW5E-qS2YQunC/s320/6a00d8341c630a53ef0134872cce22970c-600wi.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/alltherage/2010/09/a-look-around-the-new-mercedes-benz-fashion-week-at-lincoln-center.html"><i>Credit: Adam Tschorn / Los Angeles Times.</i></a></span></div><br />
But what really gets my heart racing is thinking about how it all happened. Who is checking to make sure each model is ready to hit the runway at each show? Who developed the program that's running check-in at the entrance? How many people did it take to run power to everything? Who figured out how that was going to happen? Can you imagine being responsible for all of this?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZEJQL-paL-KVwbCcb641F-FgO_gqXfjZvh74IUvyjOhUfByoR9SThrt6q6K0eDVVH2345omQ4Gu40s-4aCICYj8BkYhP0UbnEmDtIloTTYiInKi3iOnMQ-JT0yvZ5tnP8Y5P0DGQM9zQK/s1600/11408.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZEJQL-paL-KVwbCcb641F-FgO_gqXfjZvh74IUvyjOhUfByoR9SThrt6q6K0eDVVH2345omQ4Gu40s-4aCICYj8BkYhP0UbnEmDtIloTTYiInKi3iOnMQ-JT0yvZ5tnP8Y5P0DGQM9zQK/s320/11408.jpg" width="194" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_LhIWQSL_UfW19RfMc8bHLgASScHeK8vhuTf3k4BoQ1QueXLafN4FNCpkeoHDU13J2AyN91OHtOuhWyk5gNXF-MaB9vipIqPrqEy1eGJr7U9tPhe5hyatWrqrIZrJJvKHKLkOKGMQx_b6/s1600/11409.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_LhIWQSL_UfW19RfMc8bHLgASScHeK8vhuTf3k4BoQ1QueXLafN4FNCpkeoHDU13J2AyN91OHtOuhWyk5gNXF-MaB9vipIqPrqEy1eGJr7U9tPhe5hyatWrqrIZrJJvKHKLkOKGMQx_b6/s320/11409.jpg" width="194" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj26QgSp0v9-otS9-P34G6_MiS5Wob3oHETZbla2VhJjRyH7HTwem-hKsFr6hCBSqZHbx2WXfYQSAUr8-W_A12x1vT0k73egdw6nUx-M_yWDcA_4er0cihfIacXdEAuEJ2fZqtkPVSFhCRM/s1600/11406.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj26QgSp0v9-otS9-P34G6_MiS5Wob3oHETZbla2VhJjRyH7HTwem-hKsFr6hCBSqZHbx2WXfYQSAUr8-W_A12x1vT0k73egdw6nUx-M_yWDcA_4er0cihfIacXdEAuEJ2fZqtkPVSFhCRM/s320/11406.jpg" width="194" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhTNZIuOT9BE7QAPcJNzOwnHI43-zlhWeoHgytZ5qeLPgri4_WASwy7Sx2JJSvAIsXPB305ICMzXYT-nxMNaCqb95dGEr2VO_DoJYMMf8kAbPuNz4lJ5efrTUcyYsG6MbwS4yq-Seo-SMh/s1600/11501.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhTNZIuOT9BE7QAPcJNzOwnHI43-zlhWeoHgytZ5qeLPgri4_WASwy7Sx2JJSvAIsXPB305ICMzXYT-nxMNaCqb95dGEr2VO_DoJYMMf8kAbPuNz4lJ5efrTUcyYsG6MbwS4yq-Seo-SMh/s320/11501.jpg" width="195" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><a href="http://www.mbfashionweek.com/scene">source </a></i></span></div><br />
This year, that role goes to Stephanie Winston Wolkoff, the Lincoln Center's first-ever director of fashion who oversees year-round activities on the campus; and Christina Neault, executive producer at <a href="http://www.imgworld.com/event_management/fashion_events.sps">IMG Fashion</a> - the company that produces the event. *Sigh* These women have a hand in everything from the crew that built the travertine-esque entrance to the person handling a designer's last minute seating changes. Not to mention the whole however-many runway shows thing. How exhilirating! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUXYWlpxsPByjQoKoqZLjTwAISwFuBNcTfimPeBMTlHJFudMS6rkLw5gFZw8-V_9n94taM81dI3NkJHur8r2NgVJeRZc8ae35ICt_sO2THKVwf1qqoiiQZzWFiJhmgo-U9rfGmtJUxvVSI/s1600/2010_09_fw81.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUXYWlpxsPByjQoKoqZLjTwAISwFuBNcTfimPeBMTlHJFudMS6rkLw5gFZw8-V_9n94taM81dI3NkJHur8r2NgVJeRZc8ae35ICt_sO2THKVwf1qqoiiQZzWFiJhmgo-U9rfGmtJUxvVSI/s320/2010_09_fw81.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://gothamist.com/2010/09/16/curtain_closes_on_first_fashion_wee.php?gallery0Pic=3#gallery"><i>Photograph by Lanna Apisukh</i></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>On top of all that, Fashion Week changed locations this year! It came to the Lincoln Center after being in Bryant Park since 1993. Changing a venue is almost like starting from scratch when it comes to event logistics. IMG Fashion added a week to their usual set up time, increasing it to 18 days. 18 days! The advantages of the Lincoln Center far outweigh the stress of changing things. The facilities are larger and the design and technology are better for guests and producers alike. Plus, they won't have to use port-a-potties anymore.<br />
<br />
Wait what? People at Fashion Week use Port-a-Potties?! Yes, according to <a href="http://www.bizbash.com/newyork/content/editorial/19037_10_ways_mercedes-benz_fashion_week_is_changing_at_lincoln_center.php">BizBash</a>, "Instead of the typical self-contained restrooms that stood in a separate room at Bryant Park, Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at Lincoln Center will station three luxury bathroom trailers in the common areas and provide 18 standard units backstage." I'm sure the old ones didn't look like the port-a-potties I'm used to. <br />
<br />
So yes, my favorite part about Fashion Week (as it is with the Olympics, the Superbowl or any other world-reknowned event) is thinking about what the people there have to do to make it happen and wishing I was there to help. And I wouldn't mind taking a few outfits home either. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC6ynIWYDQaIinRHpsxXZDLQg77kTSQIedMH_KfEgUVsSPpd8w3WFSp61NAMlr-OBRbdLI5twvvTrMO-YZFGtho1YdxenZL8l5KSlCXQ-HYpEu7kdxa4iZUa9mnNEEWR5fbQeNCL2yd3Zj/s1600/14358.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC6ynIWYDQaIinRHpsxXZDLQg77kTSQIedMH_KfEgUVsSPpd8w3WFSp61NAMlr-OBRbdLI5twvvTrMO-YZFGtho1YdxenZL8l5KSlCXQ-HYpEu7kdxa4iZUa9mnNEEWR5fbQeNCL2yd3Zj/s320/14358.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><a href="http://www.mbfashionweek.com/scene">source </a></i></span><br />
<br />
</div><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Check out these articles for more MBFW info: <a href="http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/alltherage/2010/09/a-look-around-the-new-mercedes-benz-fashion-week-at-lincoln-center.html" rel="bookmark" title="In Tents: N.Y. Fashion Week's new home fits like a glove">In Tents: N.Y. Fashion Week's new home fits like a glove; </a><a href="http://www.bizbash.com/newyork/content/editorial/19019_new_york_fashion_weeks_move_to_lincoln_center_brings_new_design_and_technology.php"><span class="maintitledetail">New York Fashion Week's Move to Lincoln Center Brings New Design and Technology</span></a><span class="maintitledetail">; </span><a href="http://www.bizbash.com/newyork/content/editorial/19037_10_ways_mercedes-benz_fashion_week_is_changing_at_lincoln_center.php"><span class="maintitledetail">10 Ways Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Is Changing at Lincoln Center</span></a><span class="maintitledetail">; <a href="http://draft.blogger.com/"><span id="goog_1990106516"></span>Mercedes Benz Fashion Week</a><span id="goog_1990106517"></span> </span></i></span>Socializehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08632130182529242035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4075950178990505138.post-4653976979067909662010-09-14T15:52:00.000-07:002010-09-14T15:52:05.650-07:00Decor DIY: Painted Tube Cocktail ArtWhen I first spotted Kim & Mike's wedding on the <a href="http://thetreasuredpetal.wordpress.com/2010/08/08/my-first-destination-wedding/">Treasured Petal</a> blog, my eyes stopped here:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://thetreasuredpetal.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/reception-detail2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://thetreasuredpetal.files.wordpress.com/2010/08/reception-detail2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Well, on the amazingly inventive decor part anyway. Don't get me wrong; they're a lovely couple but check out the prettiness! I had to see more!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiogyGzrYchyFTPAAd8_aGOoC5-hz3v22pj67qm3qcDsIvNcAj5j48rgWzaBy_ADetOTh7N8SvaUHpFkEK6YA0mNiaVKI_nscTcG5zWY6FagbzPll2E1xBl-QWHCy04SV08BjtzhJd4c2pc/s1600/hanging+cans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiogyGzrYchyFTPAAd8_aGOoC5-hz3v22pj67qm3qcDsIvNcAj5j48rgWzaBy_ADetOTh7N8SvaUHpFkEK6YA0mNiaVKI_nscTcG5zWY6FagbzPll2E1xBl-QWHCy04SV08BjtzhJd4c2pc/s320/hanging+cans.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Thank you <a href="http://projectwedding.com/">projectwedding.com</a>! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyQFMW4gBYf1Ceo8C34UVtmU1DvrE_EyWNTSkNOR0ApW9uOpVb7qVmEv7rNhknqMGdimOVm2wkNiJRB44A-WtJxq-KhzJjz6cH_J3rOibhBfLrXhb7lBXTeW_QfQ1QbU-lfIjOjpcIJmYd/s1600/hanging+cans3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyQFMW4gBYf1Ceo8C34UVtmU1DvrE_EyWNTSkNOR0ApW9uOpVb7qVmEv7rNhknqMGdimOVm2wkNiJRB44A-WtJxq-KhzJjz6cH_J3rOibhBfLrXhb7lBXTeW_QfQ1QbU-lfIjOjpcIJmYd/s320/hanging+cans3.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> Get out of the way you two!! <a href="http://www.projectwedding.com/real_wedding/show/kim-mike-atherton-ca">source</a></i></span></div><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD1RM5NCcMJGNqf86-h5g-bsczrLlNs2yYpqUhyphenhyphen4s1K54qqnt4QCIZPX9AjIAFvSIC66rN-NG3yjXhbL7b_iffcEh57BuCVOMdwNAWuFxx8Bx36VMx5dB2qpGC85ldK0PlxnPCSXVyragb/s1600/hanging+cans2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD1RM5NCcMJGNqf86-h5g-bsczrLlNs2yYpqUhyphenhyphen4s1K54qqnt4QCIZPX9AjIAFvSIC66rN-NG3yjXhbL7b_iffcEh57BuCVOMdwNAWuFxx8Bx36VMx5dB2qpGC85ldK0PlxnPCSXVyragb/s320/hanging+cans2.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Much better! </i><i><a href="http://www.projectwedding.com/real_wedding/show/kim-mike-atherton-ca">source</a></i></span></div><br />
This stunning piece hung over the entrance to their cocktail hour. It was handcrafted and filled with flowers corks and rolled up magazines. Think about the endless ways you could use something like this - a chuppah, home decor, or modify it slightly and use as a great table centerpiece! <br />
Thankfully, Victoria from <a href="http://thecitycradle.com/">City Cradle Design</a> tracked down the creator and rounded up a tutorial! (P.S. Victoria's site also has a <a href="http://thecitycradle.com/d-i-y">gallery</a> full of templates and DIY projects to explore. She's pretty fab.) I included the instructions below but check out the City Cradle post and photos <a href="http://thecitycradle.com/painted-tube-cocktail-art">here</a>. So the only question now is... what should I make this for first?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: black;"><strong>Materials:</strong><br />
You will need… Cans with different circumferences and heights, a can opener, nuts (short, slotted) and bolts, drill and drill bit that matches the size of the nuts (also something to puncture the can. I used a screw), flat-head screwdriver and a wrench that matches the size of the bolts.<br />
</span> <br />
<span style="color: black;">You will also need… Spray paint (outside color), craft acrylic paint (inside color plus white) & varying things to fill the cans with.<br />
</span><br />
<span style="color: black;"></span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black;"><strong>How to:</strong></span><br />
<ul><li><span style="color: black;">Cut the bottom of the cans out with a can opener.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: black;"> Arrange the cans in the arrangement you like.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: black;"> Starting with the corner can, drill a hole in the middle of the can (we estimated). Match the hole to the middle of an adjacent can and mark the second can, drill a hole where you marked the second can.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: black;"> Screw the 2 cans together with a nut and bolt (so that the cans are touching, but do not tighten the bolt because you may need to take the cans apart later.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: black;"> Add the cans together one by one. Depending on the height of the cans, you may need to join some of the cans together with two bolts to make the attachment secure. This step takes a lot of time because each can will be connected with multiple other cans.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: black;"> Tighten all the screws with the screwdriver and wrench.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: black;"> Spray paint the outside of the structure. Pay attention to the crevices, and don’t worry about getting paint on the inside of the cans (If I were to make this again, I think I would paint the cans before bolting them into together). Let the spray paint dry according to instruction on can.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: black;"> Paint the inside of the cans white (so that the inside color will be more vibrant).</span></li>
<li><span style="color: black;"> Paint the inside of the cans the desired colors to match your event.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: black;"> Fill the cans with event related items- we used flowers corks and even rolled up magazines.</span></li>
</ul>Socializehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08632130182529242035noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4075950178990505138.post-17536442189348530562010-09-10T14:39:00.000-07:002010-09-10T14:39:12.975-07:00State HolidayYou may not know, but tomorrow is essentially a state holiday in Iowa. It's so important that if anyone is planning an event in the state in the month of September; the first question out of their event planner's mouth better be "When is the Iowa/Iowa State game?" (if they don't already know, which they should)<br />
That's right. Our state rivalry football game between the University of Iowa Hawkeyes and the Iowa State Cyclones is a HUGE deal. Iowa doesn't have any pro teams so all of our energy goes into the college games and this one is the granddaddy of them all! <br />
<br />
Even though the game encourages a generous amount of smack talk in the days weeks (and months) leading up to the game; there is one thing the rivals can agree on: tailgating. No matter where the game is held or who wins; in the end we all love a good tailgate.<br />
<br />
So, in honor of the big day tomorrow and all the fun that the Hawkeyes and Cyclones around the world will be having; I leave you with this.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbW8x81Z1-d40C5Cwr54sglrgeEL3xDecLz5gUpILXmeTuzapeKh8pTggV9rBIvCH0nFEtSHQT6JuwyQD9m3XFHWN3SOuef5q_uIjdwElVpQwNRqXpsDYAKkDZIey6oBRZmp1IW9wxE2WS/s1600/IA+ISU+board.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbW8x81Z1-d40C5Cwr54sglrgeEL3xDecLz5gUpILXmeTuzapeKh8pTggV9rBIvCH0nFEtSHQT6JuwyQD9m3XFHWN3SOuef5q_uIjdwElVpQwNRqXpsDYAKkDZIey6oBRZmp1IW9wxE2WS/s640/IA+ISU+board.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Cupcakes via <a href="http://draft.blogger.com/://www.nextgenerationhousewife.com/2009/12/iowa-hawkeye-cupcakes/">Next Generation Housewife</a></span></i></div><br />
<br />
If you couldn't tell from the pictures, I am a little biased so...<br />
<br />
<div style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">GO HAWKS!!!</span></b></div><div style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="color: black; font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div>Socializehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08632130182529242035noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4075950178990505138.post-1570686870371009712010-09-10T12:49:00.000-07:002010-09-10T12:49:32.981-07:00Event Envy: Guac Off!This event is so...so...Fiestalicious!<br />
OK - not really what I'm looking for but I don't think one word can describe it. When looking at the pictures from <a href="http://www.mindyweiss.com/">Mindy Weiss</a>'s Guac-off event all I could think about was how much I would like to be there. In fact, all I could think about all day was how much I wanted to be there!<br />
Take a look. Can't you feel the sun on your face; hear the mariachi band in the background and taste the delicious guacamole?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsUX4DnDcq6hBBhY8ooIB-uZcw7zJo3ClGBBxpxRbmPmoaTlvuu38R8VTai31ia0rT4TXFwtFqb4FJ7J5KBZe0B11PqROcdkmhi7fTlVLU6Bz2aOGFlSq6aJXKVX0OakflHXlc4Rx2r_l6/s1600/Guacoff+flower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsUX4DnDcq6hBBhY8ooIB-uZcw7zJo3ClGBBxpxRbmPmoaTlvuu38R8VTai31ia0rT4TXFwtFqb4FJ7J5KBZe0B11PqROcdkmhi7fTlVLU6Bz2aOGFlSq6aJXKVX0OakflHXlc4Rx2r_l6/s320/Guacoff+flower.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7HNT2N2zHlarPY1m_P6sA4iogJV8nQDNiK-7KXrc-pu9sWEKJER6JCT8Cank6SMuNgEq7KLLDuaYYnd16JsgleXd12caejxOUs9JfFDAFpezYuwfMzwypBofG9ZophFAvECZlMSrpabI7/s1600/Guacoff+placesetting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7HNT2N2zHlarPY1m_P6sA4iogJV8nQDNiK-7KXrc-pu9sWEKJER6JCT8Cank6SMuNgEq7KLLDuaYYnd16JsgleXd12caejxOUs9JfFDAFpezYuwfMzwypBofG9ZophFAvECZlMSrpabI7/s320/Guacoff+placesetting.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Qn96qJRszYbpsgHNriobtP9LBuh0xMyyTrzDyRhRgL8o5JkGARJeLt24ODbtASVXYh3MzH-7G27tU-r79L1YD86BssVj557BqUMSaS-DxUW0tb3jki2wdPbOT1NLHAGgBpUwsdtUUe-Y/s1600/Guacoff+tables.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Qn96qJRszYbpsgHNriobtP9LBuh0xMyyTrzDyRhRgL8o5JkGARJeLt24ODbtASVXYh3MzH-7G27tU-r79L1YD86BssVj557BqUMSaS-DxUW0tb3jki2wdPbOT1NLHAGgBpUwsdtUUe-Y/s320/Guacoff+tables.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"> There are few tables I have seen that are casual and amazing at the same time. These strike the perfect balance.</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU2kGe0FrdtxROyjIYuDywotY2R75cGq18b3vcHq1o_8i3qRGSX22y7t6gGBM7y3UjyRQYaLy3IGA_HWdlqtO2xFOypWVaCcnR6p-ArXqSHf0QQK6c24jC7k90fFRMBRBrjlg3CxLQ2hpt/s1600/Guacoff.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU2kGe0FrdtxROyjIYuDywotY2R75cGq18b3vcHq1o_8i3qRGSX22y7t6gGBM7y3UjyRQYaLy3IGA_HWdlqtO2xFOypWVaCcnR6p-ArXqSHf0QQK6c24jC7k90fFRMBRBrjlg3CxLQ2hpt/s320/Guacoff.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0GoLdpDQq3GQeTX1u5DAGAzmoe9ed1jZE2dVbOSlqyH3pPEQuauAjCZ2mpfXl-9quueJTOQaISNTKy0l7WHztkU9KvdoOgF2qHcGC6VDItFQKKyDhK8TuVO1pe107ADBuITIxto0i73-W/s1600/Guacoff+buffet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0GoLdpDQq3GQeTX1u5DAGAzmoe9ed1jZE2dVbOSlqyH3pPEQuauAjCZ2mpfXl-9quueJTOQaISNTKy0l7WHztkU9KvdoOgF2qHcGC6VDItFQKKyDhK8TuVO1pe107ADBuITIxto0i73-W/s320/Guacoff+buffet.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfD03SXhZwcNj37WkzXtsWJJ3_eMsW2ZjNBLdfxCqqC-cuUaWcQZUrq2oa1QNMkRemnSzB6yhZllOaqDYrlKFfpbuYbr5rD094sL348HFhpNRlujhlpdK5rpS2L2Fe1ElWeIkqj0_8MUSV/s1600/Guacoff+food.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfD03SXhZwcNj37WkzXtsWJJ3_eMsW2ZjNBLdfxCqqC-cuUaWcQZUrq2oa1QNMkRemnSzB6yhZllOaqDYrlKFfpbuYbr5rD094sL348HFhpNRlujhlpdK5rpS2L2Fe1ElWeIkqj0_8MUSV/s320/Guacoff+food.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Anyone hungry yet?</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG7cXK8xYKrYZo6PSc0CFcbTBRFQt-dJPe0m2H1lyZeeLtPlT49kxFUnnYstq9v2OdaOPT2x255BTV2JUddRUBPJCj_6DKtS1muJhukvzzUle3jt3mpc_I1YnczHcnB2PK55ZgF_d9lh8G/s1600/Guacoff+buckets.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG7cXK8xYKrYZo6PSc0CFcbTBRFQt-dJPe0m2H1lyZeeLtPlT49kxFUnnYstq9v2OdaOPT2x255BTV2JUddRUBPJCj_6DKtS1muJhukvzzUle3jt3mpc_I1YnczHcnB2PK55ZgF_d9lh8G/s320/Guacoff+buckets.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> </i></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Love how this display uses wood containers of all types!</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZmsBtIySWhFBPMfa5aNfY8KCMCQVu-MTwuHxpKjhoGsPq9ZXzmDDbvPavr4PLoLRoV8OoaGr0I9TL1bqpjaKPCgUvw3BNQXM6qYJj0LLR3U0s1dsGxsO1_tkMSANqYRR3ZOqe3smEVXEs/s1600/Guacoff+molcajete.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZmsBtIySWhFBPMfa5aNfY8KCMCQVu-MTwuHxpKjhoGsPq9ZXzmDDbvPavr4PLoLRoV8OoaGr0I9TL1bqpjaKPCgUvw3BNQXM6qYJj0LLR3U0s1dsGxsO1_tkMSANqYRR3ZOqe3smEVXEs/s320/Guacoff+molcajete.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrFNeqDe9mkLFm29T4wrOFWWuhemvkB7qLEdM3VoV71WOuPakRQVlPs-H4iKpDDj_v7gp1isaPm8fHUw9IR9N3q3nxLaxBDIjQ5cIBPTvox0jVybuY29dVQa4lE4hhEYVr87MwWFazM2C_/s1600/Guacoff+trophy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrFNeqDe9mkLFm29T4wrOFWWuhemvkB7qLEdM3VoV71WOuPakRQVlPs-H4iKpDDj_v7gp1isaPm8fHUw9IR9N3q3nxLaxBDIjQ5cIBPTvox0jVybuY29dVQa4lE4hhEYVr87MwWFazM2C_/s320/Guacoff+trophy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> There were 75!! guacamole entries.</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>All photos via <a href="http://www.mindyweiss.com/blog/2010/09/06/guac-off/#comment-1589">Mindy Weiss </a></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">For more photos of all the fun check out the Mindy Weiss <a href="http://www.mindyweiss.com/blog/2010/09/06/guac-off/#comment-1589">blog</a>. </div><div style="text-align: left;">What a perfect event for summer or the transition of seasons - when you can't really do beachy/tropical anymore and autumn/harvest-y just isn't quite right yet. Don't forget about it as a potential Cinco de Mayo party either!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Socializehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08632130182529242035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4075950178990505138.post-59955070696579932452010-09-08T18:52:00.000-07:002010-09-24T04:52:15.709-07:00Wastin' Away Again...A couple weeks ago I helped out with the planning for a bachelorette party for one of my very good friends. The party was held in <a href="http://www.vacationokoboji.com/">Okoboji</a>, a lake town in northwest Iowa. It's a fabulous summer getaway and the perfect atmosphere for a laid-back girls' weekend.<br />
The bride-to-be's love of margaritas plus our destination easily led to our theme - Okobojiville!<br />
<br />
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My favorite part of the planning were making the invitations. I had far too much fun putting them together!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4PoJHvgTmSVy2P9iKXyz0d58Bqo6oN6mp44lvyiFVRNqV1GD66jga7_e2NOH6m-vcyD8T1hIqF59UaNPLaayJNnPep9-RfFCXEtRYvyaKKCVU9KliYG3MlYVnS6RmUb3U5-W2NXjYbCfH/s1600/IMG_6106.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4PoJHvgTmSVy2P9iKXyz0d58Bqo6oN6mp44lvyiFVRNqV1GD66jga7_e2NOH6m-vcyD8T1hIqF59UaNPLaayJNnPep9-RfFCXEtRYvyaKKCVU9KliYG3MlYVnS6RmUb3U5-W2NXjYbCfH/s320/IMG_6106.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> Pocketfolds from <a href="http://cardsandpockets.com/">cardsandpockets.com</a></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgjPxsmA9T96LXvgycF2rPQEAwOu1nJq-JEEN_2gbqCsMF2ciOzZORfpVgAs5WcunrZ6ulv9FCbj2eC5Ii7iqRuBOsZCzOjsH_HmFcXAS1ix9MPD2wSXzOXsXAVonQPuChQ5xdvGqwn-eR/s1600/IMG_6107.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgjPxsmA9T96LXvgycF2rPQEAwOu1nJq-JEEN_2gbqCsMF2ciOzZORfpVgAs5WcunrZ6ulv9FCbj2eC5Ii7iqRuBOsZCzOjsH_HmFcXAS1ix9MPD2wSXzOXsXAVonQPuChQ5xdvGqwn-eR/s320/IMG_6107.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRFZGf4BW0NkdvM5pCPUnkrVQ2_LwazbxYpHPqYAM6Orsr2Go_kFu40bbfhpmpKkwHUMrXUUR-s-AVwbr88ZxWdRHPXWcNNufoWCy-mK4wIrxsMosKD-BWQcot6dsVldtW9cgGKMZuuHHD/s1600/IMG_6109.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRFZGf4BW0NkdvM5pCPUnkrVQ2_LwazbxYpHPqYAM6Orsr2Go_kFu40bbfhpmpKkwHUMrXUUR-s-AVwbr88ZxWdRHPXWcNNufoWCy-mK4wIrxsMosKD-BWQcot6dsVldtW9cgGKMZuuHHD/s320/IMG_6109.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF1faL8WJfFzUQsqJaHAj4oGEx8i23eu6KtfZe_zr2CDIsChTvqYkD8tShxCHnNWevOK4AcDS7b1zHCv2kOrl2GXjrb7eaXBJSh5zMGN1hh6g5y3uT1BKzqENZq3HAg_VoDMEK8vmePpM_/s1600/Picture+124.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF1faL8WJfFzUQsqJaHAj4oGEx8i23eu6KtfZe_zr2CDIsChTvqYkD8tShxCHnNWevOK4AcDS7b1zHCv2kOrl2GXjrb7eaXBJSh5zMGN1hh6g5y3uT1BKzqENZq3HAg_VoDMEK8vmePpM_/s320/Picture+124.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Gratuitious work station/Cricut shot.</i></span></div><br />
The lake house we stayed at already had an interior that lent itself to the atmosphere we needed so the decor was limited; but here are a few shots anyway!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWnA4llb-xwZmBV4MbeRKKmHJ1o8n1L_uaRX1FNHCrDYEGGruS0kyzWXBfupQiKMwupmx-a8wUo22b0n_tF88f35617C_tRRbHUhbFJHe-XM_0_pwAlTh8DLblmRwLlS7EBNV_to4W22-C/s1600/IMG_5893.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWnA4llb-xwZmBV4MbeRKKmHJ1o8n1L_uaRX1FNHCrDYEGGruS0kyzWXBfupQiKMwupmx-a8wUo22b0n_tF88f35617C_tRRbHUhbFJHe-XM_0_pwAlTh8DLblmRwLlS7EBNV_to4W22-C/s320/IMG_5893.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSeNvW5P9i8X2GpY4ZgBLa_2sxCqHxLMAF_l9LLSmxbG4Ni7KRVgi0S8MJM5ERhTtjKC027ZMcxb4lZA9CqfPrROHJyxUnaiGpGfyLgE2MokSOXlgNs5wrWUf8wLBaOu7gamyRJKccZSoH/s1600/IMG_5880.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSeNvW5P9i8X2GpY4ZgBLa_2sxCqHxLMAF_l9LLSmxbG4Ni7KRVgi0S8MJM5ERhTtjKC027ZMcxb4lZA9CqfPrROHJyxUnaiGpGfyLgE2MokSOXlgNs5wrWUf8wLBaOu7gamyRJKccZSoH/s320/IMG_5880.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Customized margarita glasses for everyone!</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdBsSWvVJ5Vr3DIyycqkCZCW27u1-6dswJKyeY5qFuFNg8PFjN59C8vqAJvgpKhbwvApsXZ3xiTrDH70OucaWoxf7qz1a_LBbhDEPJtQ2vXPHcJ5Y64Du0nRQ38PNRv9zcE-NDuGN-SgL8/s1600/IMG_5887.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdBsSWvVJ5Vr3DIyycqkCZCW27u1-6dswJKyeY5qFuFNg8PFjN59C8vqAJvgpKhbwvApsXZ3xiTrDH70OucaWoxf7qz1a_LBbhDEPJtQ2vXPHcJ5Y64Du0nRQ38PNRv9zcE-NDuGN-SgL8/s320/IMG_5887.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And of course, we had fabulous margaritas! Warm weather may be coming to an end, but you should definitely find a reason to try these:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 part tequila </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 part triple sec</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">1 part Grand <span class="il">Marnier</span> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">3 parts non-alcoholic margarita mix</div>Splash of orange juice<br />
<br />
The bachelorette enjoyed her weekend and all the guests had a blast!Socializehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08632130182529242035noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4075950178990505138.post-85068106104768426402010-09-03T15:22:00.000-07:002010-09-03T15:22:45.862-07:00UpdatesI am excited to let you know that there are about to be some changes around here. It just feels like it's time to shake things up! Well, I suppose a few things fell into place that make this the right time as well.<br />
<br />
Long story short, you may have noticed that "Set for Celebrating" blog title has changed! Initially, you'll just see the name change on this page's title (bad branding, I know) but soon enough, we'll have a whole new world wide web address to direct you to! So stay on your toes so you don't miss a minute of fabulous event insight.<br />
<br />
"But wait - what's Socialize?" you may be asking.<br />
<br />
Well, that's where the short story gets a little longer. Read on to learn more.<br />
Almost a month ago, I had lunch with Tracy Fuller of <a href="http://www.innovativevents.com/">Innovative Events</a>. Tracy and I have gotten to know each other by working on some projects together for my <a href="http://www.kumandgo.com/">employer </a>(I could handle parties like <a href="http://setforcelebrating.blogspot.com/2010/02/my-brief-awards-season.html">this </a>but needed to pull out the big guns when I needed more production resources). Tracy has built her business over 22 years and has planned events around the world. She is an amazing professional who I admire and look at as a mentor - even if she may not realize that! During lunch, I expressed to her that at some point, I wanted to expand my career in the events world and was looking for opportunities to do that. I was open to picking up production work with Innovative Events or exploring other full time positions.<br />
<br />
Tracy spent a few minutes brainstorming some options. Then, she simply asked, "What about starting your own events planning business? Have you ever thought of that?"<br />
<br />
The truth is, I have been dreaming about this very same venture for a while but wasn't able to find the time to put the work into it while I had a full time event-planning job (crazy hours and all). Of course, my doubts and fears held me back too. But...I had a name (see new blog title) and had even gone to far as to buy it as a domain so it seems it was something I was longing to do. After Tracy spent the next 20 minutes or so encouraging me; I was convinced that this needed to happen. And I was going to make it happen, full time job and all. <i>Socialize was going to get started!</i><br />
<br />
I set to work that night (with the help and support of my husband), knowing that it would be a slow process with the little time I could spend on the project.<br />
<br />
Strangely enough; a few days later I saw a posting from a local non-profit for a part time Events Manager and gave it shot. Within the week, they interviewed me and offered me the job!<br />
<br />
My unbelievably supportive (fantastic, loving, sexy, intelligent, funny, perfect) husband and I discussed the possibility of me taking this part time job and using the rest of my time to start and run Socialize. We decided... to go for it!<br />
<br />
After spending a couple weeks with a stomach that's tied in knots and a few panicky thoughts (this is scary, people! but so exciting and fun!); things are getting underway. It wouldn't have been possible to do this without Tracy's push and the love and encouragement I've received from my family, friends and of course, my ridiculously wonderful husband. But now, I've left my former company, started in my new position at the Des Moines Area Religious Council (DMARC) and spent the last few afternoons dedicated to this venture. It's really happening!<br />
<br />
There will be plenty of information to come about Socialize. For now, we'll just stick with the blog name change. I'll keep you posted on the rest.<br />
Welcome to Socialize!Socializehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08632130182529242035noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4075950178990505138.post-3177786004410225482010-09-01T15:01:00.000-07:002010-09-01T15:01:02.574-07:00Oops! I Did It Again!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i.ytimg.com/vi/gzXCUpbtMTU/0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i.ytimg.com/vi/gzXCUpbtMTU/0.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I went MIA for a little while! It's been a whirlwind of activity the last couple weeks. All great news that I will be sharing very soon!<br />
We're going to shake things up around here. Probably more than once. Be patient my lovelies, in the end it will mean more event goodness for all!Socializehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08632130182529242035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4075950178990505138.post-42253093607521835582010-08-12T20:34:00.000-07:002010-08-12T20:34:22.447-07:00Iowa State Fair - Non-Stop Fun!It's the first day of the 2010 Iowa State Fair! Although the 156-year old event may not seem like a big deal to some, the Iowa State Fair started attracting over 1 million people each year since 2002. It is a huge production with tons of entertainment, exhibits and of course, a midway set on 445 acres in Des Moines.<br />
<br />
Now, can you keep a secret? I am not a huge fan of the fair. I certainly don't dispute that there is Non-Stop Fun there for people. It's just that the fun takes place among those million people attending and typically in searing heat. How about a backyard state fair?<br />
Sounds like a plan to me! There are so many rustic elements that are popular right now that you could easily pull together to create a classic state fair atmosphere. <br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio5xRs2h7NiEUahs_UPjUwJhup9LmKIUhtx_YFfc9bBPnpK8VcDypCXA94-3NeN7A0af5bHffPImhevk-okYS9uz_TeVL2Kf8DFzLU9gq2SLmFYt_jDbMjIhW89qP18AANbvaDBxtyQu8/s1600/aimeetroy31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio5xRs2h7NiEUahs_UPjUwJhup9LmKIUhtx_YFfc9bBPnpK8VcDypCXA94-3NeN7A0af5bHffPImhevk-okYS9uz_TeVL2Kf8DFzLU9gq2SLmFYt_jDbMjIhW89qP18AANbvaDBxtyQu8/s320/aimeetroy31.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">via <a href="http://jldesigns.blogspot.com/2010/05/aimee-and-troy-strawberry-farms-irvine.html">JL Designs</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.hellolucky.com/media/diyproject/msw-DIY-donuts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://www.hellolucky.com/media/diyproject/msw-DIY-donuts.jpg" width="304" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>via <a href="http://www.hellolucky.com/martha-stewart-weddings-DIY-hello-lucky.html?p=2">Hello Lucky</a> - includes instructions and template</i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I love the idea of using streamers and lighting to create a ceiling outdoors. This would suggest the atmosphere created by the lights from the midway </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNkWIkhxE1f8vtDGjLU9EztQfUve0VvNs1aZVRA08tIlz3kJU16wRke8h_dO3ZtSXneX_tf8oMJbOCGWsVB-_kgD6MjPlYuJD36aebezRG_dwtSxQA5FGEeIOH-P7QCTBo-1JwJv96FK8/s1600/FlashDancepost028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNkWIkhxE1f8vtDGjLU9EztQfUve0VvNs1aZVRA08tIlz3kJU16wRke8h_dO3ZtSXneX_tf8oMJbOCGWsVB-_kgD6MjPlYuJD36aebezRG_dwtSxQA5FGEeIOH-P7QCTBo-1JwJv96FK8/s320/FlashDancepost028.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Via <a href="http://www.bash-blog.com/2010/07/max-margaux.html">Bash Events</a></i></span></div><br />
And you have to have food on a stick!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n82/jlmarfori/Raspberrytable065.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n82/jlmarfori/Raspberrytable065.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>via <a href="http://eatdrinkpretty.blogspot.com/2010/07/rustic-raspberry-dessert-table.html">Eat Drink Pretty</a></i></span></div><br />
These little <a href="http://www.bakerella.com/easy-as-pie/">pie pops</a> may not be the healthiest thing you can eat; but they don't scream "instant heart attack" like a deep-fried twinkie on a stick does! For the full list of Iowa State Fair foods on a stick (and to find out what an Octo-dog is) click <a href="http://www.iowastatefair.com/services/food-on-a-stick.php">here</a>. <br />
Enjoy the fair!Socializehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08632130182529242035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4075950178990505138.post-91735632448075885992010-08-04T19:39:00.000-07:002010-08-04T19:39:10.779-07:00Summer Soiree by Head of the Table<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Take a look at this dinner party that Kim from <a href="http://www.headofthetableblog.com/">Head of the Table</a> designed! Can't you feel the sun on your face and hear your friends laughing at your clever banter.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>All images via <a href="http://www.headofthetableblog.com/2010/08/classic-summer-soiree.html">Head of the Table</a></i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i717.photobucket.com/albums/ww176/headofthetable/Pool%20Party/DSC_0688.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="368" src="http://i717.photobucket.com/albums/ww176/headofthetable/Pool%20Party/DSC_0688.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="color: black;"></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;">What a perfect color palette! Understated, but still fresh and summery. The white chiavari chairs and white </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;">wine glasses are extra special details that especially make things pop. The custom table runner ties well with the striped menus.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: black;"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i717.photobucket.com/albums/ww176/headofthetable/Pool%20Party/DSC_0706.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i717.photobucket.com/albums/ww176/headofthetable/Pool%20Party/DSC_0711.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i717.photobucket.com/albums/ww176/headofthetable/Pool%20Party/DSC_0711.jpg" width="214" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i717.photobucket.com/albums/ww176/headofthetable/Pool%20Party/DSC_0695.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="http://i717.photobucket.com/albums/ww176/headofthetable/Pool%20Party/DSC_0695.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Kim's company, <a href="http://www.headofthetablerental.com/home.html">Head of the Table</a> provided the plates, glassware and flatware. They rent all kinds of fabulous placesettings that are wonderful if you're a little particular about party details. And just look how far just a few pieces can go! I emailed Kim quite some time ago to learn how she got started and she was as sweet and helpful as can be! If you're planning a party in the St. Louis area, be sure to visit <a href="http://www.headofthetablerental.com/home.html">Head of the Table</a>! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://i717.photobucket.com/albums/ww176/headofthetable/Pool%20Party/DSC_0738.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://i717.photobucket.com/albums/ww176/headofthetable/Pool%20Party/DSC_0738.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>The candlelight must have been so lovely once the sun went down. (Don't forget to trim those wicks!)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i717.photobucket.com/albums/ww176/headofthetable/Pool%20Party/DSC_0701.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://i717.photobucket.com/albums/ww176/headofthetable/Pool%20Party/DSC_0701.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Like Kim writes; this is so summer-chic that every party diva will be inspired to squeeze in just one more party by the pool...Count me in!Socializehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08632130182529242035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4075950178990505138.post-37467470366135329512010-07-31T06:57:00.000-07:002010-07-31T06:57:51.322-07:00Sweets & Champagne (the abbreviated version!)Last Wednesday I hosted an <a href="http://www.arbonne.com/">Arbonne</a> party for a friend who just became a rep. She was eager to get started so when she contacted me, we scheduled the event for about two weeks before the date. Normally, this wouldn't be a problem for me. But it just so happens that July was one of the wackiest months I've had at work in a long time. So I really had to do everything at the last minute!<br />
I did leave work a little early that day (yes, with permission) so I could get things ready. I had already decided to do desserts because we were kicking things of at 7:00 pm. What goes well with sweets? Champagne, naturally!<br />
With the limited time I had, I knew that most things would have to be from the store and not from my own two hands. I hit the jackpot with some specials one of the local grocery store chains was having!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYOSSyqN_cmDpvj6JvwZ50lKVRksJTZka6Lj1W4JmEpvXyhAqWX4Vk11Q2o7UEU91x-7MrwpVM9vF-ZFjPhu-mK_wNgsxtwOxvzs3gnc7L3m6XextRg6h8TO71iaOcBtuYPc8bQtRoYp_y/s1600/dessert+table1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYOSSyqN_cmDpvj6JvwZ50lKVRksJTZka6Lj1W4JmEpvXyhAqWX4Vk11Q2o7UEU91x-7MrwpVM9vF-ZFjPhu-mK_wNgsxtwOxvzs3gnc7L3m6XextRg6h8TO71iaOcBtuYPc8bQtRoYp_y/s320/dessert+table1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
My dessert table consisted of cherry and chocolate donut holes (10 cents each!!), some chocolate/cheesecake treats that were in the bakery case and a pudding/pound cake/strawberry/Cool whip dessert I made up. For as easy as it was the pudding and pound cake dessert looked impressive. I'll add the super-simple directions at the end. But first, I want to let you know why this easy menu impressed my guests.<br />
<br />
It's all about the basics. Basic serveware, that is! Nice trays and bowls make an enormous difference in the presentation of food - no matter how easy the food was to make. If you enjoy entertaining, I believe serveware is essential to have in your party planning pantry. A couple platters and bowls will go a long way. Throw in a cake platter and a tiered buffet server and you'll add some nice dimension to your table as well. If you're just starting your collection, go with white and/or glass (clear). I like to use a mix of both. Later on, you can always purchase and add in pieces with a little more flair. Here are some great places to get started without breaking the bank:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/nodePage.asp?RN=2066&">Bed Bath & Beyond</a><br />
<a href="http://www.cb2.com/family.aspx?c=230&f=4401">CB2</a> (<a href="http://www.cb2.com/family.aspx?c=230&f=4401">these </a>are so on my wish list!)<br />
<a href="http://www.target.com/Serveware-Kitchen-Dining/b/ref=nav_t_spc_8_14/178-5195313-0549620?ie=UTF8&node=1042050">Target </a><br />
<br />
Now onto that A-mazing dessert of mine! Here's what I used:<br />
Bakery fresh pound cake<br />
Instant chocolate pudding mix (and the skim milk you would use to make it)<br />
Strawberries<br />
Cool whip<br />
<br />
First, I made the pudding according to those handy directions on the package. I divided the finished product between five dessert cups and put those in the refrigerator to let the pudding set.<br />
While waiting for the pudding to be ready, I sliced the pound cake into about 3/4 inch slices.<br />
Then, I washed and sliced up most of the strawberries. I held a few back for garnish.<br />
Out came the chilled and set pudding cups!<br />
I put two slices of the pound cake in each cup, threw in some strawberries and topped with Cool Whip. I made a small cut in the remaining full strawberries and added one to the rim of each cup (you'll see in the picture that I have a little bit to learn about the proper placement of garnishing cuts!).<br />
Voila!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix-oW2pzF52Lc6tVO7vIGNk-Yh7izhtFzpr5xrjl4K-dGoF2NWEWH14v6-xEwWOpPGrFKL0VTJyyEf9rl7ynBUUa4DY2mlIG-qucttjMoSmK2Psek-CYCU1hrp5QDcJzTddQjpZXUXhjZ8/s1600/dessert+table2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix-oW2pzF52Lc6tVO7vIGNk-Yh7izhtFzpr5xrjl4K-dGoF2NWEWH14v6-xEwWOpPGrFKL0VTJyyEf9rl7ynBUUa4DY2mlIG-qucttjMoSmK2Psek-CYCU1hrp5QDcJzTddQjpZXUXhjZ8/s320/dessert+table2.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br />
<br />
The compliments I received for the dessert were completely disproportionate for the amount of work it took me. I hope you get the same results!Socializehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08632130182529242035noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4075950178990505138.post-84445793166461215412010-07-28T19:04:00.000-07:002010-07-28T19:05:20.990-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>For what it's worth - I feel bad for not writing anything for so long. Once again, the month has been crazy and I let myself get overwhelmed. Everyday I thought, "I'm too busy today. I'll blog tomorrow." Fiddle-dee-dee! Then I realized, I will probably never have "time" to blog unless I just make it a part of my day. So let's see what I can do!<br />
In addition to not blogging, I also ignored my Google Reader for at least two weeks, accumulating approximately 976 posts to read. Fun! One thing I came across that I wanted to share was this deliciously girly wedding that I came across on <a href="http://somethingborrowedsomethingfabu.blogspot.com/">Something Borrowed, Something Fabu</a>. <br />
<br />
Side note before we get started: I promise I won't feature too many weddings, but when I come across things that could provide inspiration and easily translate to other celebrations, I probably won't be able to help myself.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>All images via <a href="http://somethingborrowedsomethingfabu.blogspot.com/2010/06/katherine-scott.html">Something Borrowed, Something Fabu</a><a href="http://somethingborrowedsomethingfabu.blogspot.com/2010/06/katherine-scott.html">.</a></i></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i> </i><i></i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTuLqNyATZpbk5ukR9-pYC4ZXDkpFZXJ4vUeMKPwWfpbkypTfEQ4gzcuVunTH0hjHFAVvxfPDPTKrEGpz3FGLSxwtMbqmN3cwleMKkMNVuQwQXwHgbhQk6iR50hA1QJeIGMiwJpgG-AUQ/s1600/31405_1490922030679_1162849968_31450407_2802524_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTuLqNyATZpbk5ukR9-pYC4ZXDkpFZXJ4vUeMKPwWfpbkypTfEQ4gzcuVunTH0hjHFAVvxfPDPTKrEGpz3FGLSxwtMbqmN3cwleMKkMNVuQwQXwHgbhQk6iR50hA1QJeIGMiwJpgG-AUQ/s320/31405_1490922030679_1162849968_31450407_2802524_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div>Holy Flowers! I don't even know if this was used for anything or was just part of the decor. Fantastic!<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXxlIwz00FgaiQDb-WNudTrinXMgDLkghC1aF0JgIrcmUhjy5UMTPpAStzpzn8yQ_upJaR2ZghzljFcE10y3niBLmx011NVM0YXZk5RrygMMNGElx8UwLmIq7RWAbE4IHP2KfRPGH1QAU/s1600/31405_1490913430464_1162849968_31450353_3360577_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXxlIwz00FgaiQDb-WNudTrinXMgDLkghC1aF0JgIrcmUhjy5UMTPpAStzpzn8yQ_upJaR2ZghzljFcE10y3niBLmx011NVM0YXZk5RrygMMNGElx8UwLmIq7RWAbE4IHP2KfRPGH1QAU/s320/31405_1490913430464_1162849968_31450353_3360577_n.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Shrimp cocktail is such an easy appetizer but add a sculpted, LIGHTED ice tray and it becomes a great feature. If you're willing to experiment, this is probably an easy addition to your next appetizer table. Grab a few containers or trays, fill with water and freeze (a la <a href="http://curbly.com/diy-maven/posts/367-elegant-outdoor-luminaries-free">ice luminaries</a>) and throw in some of <a href="http://www.save-on-crafts.com/floralytes17.html">these bad boys</a><span style="color: black;">. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZtzYgqv8uzi9G2EYC0YpDMgNAnKfLY5TBxrvXZvkk1YNPAUDCMrG0PTuNjmSPdCLlh_bQDl64OjVc5ecmQr2TsfTcweDJtT0sdTseO5RT6In6coMvL86Or4yMUmg1eZ6tAJfeAhfcudU/s1600/31405_1490913110456_1162849968_31450348_3482460_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZtzYgqv8uzi9G2EYC0YpDMgNAnKfLY5TBxrvXZvkk1YNPAUDCMrG0PTuNjmSPdCLlh_bQDl64OjVc5ecmQr2TsfTcweDJtT0sdTseO5RT6In6coMvL86Or4yMUmg1eZ6tAJfeAhfcudU/s320/31405_1490913110456_1162849968_31450348_3482460_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiitpNsKOEnLjY8Trll6Phj_zWo5vVbYJ9knFdRCPlVlIEgzrWGbK5_BFlpncAZ42Lnke2u1b9GxZtPR5nvuu8lfTBTmPEvasw-dC1ahruQYm4ZlovTp6xsI5wxV3S3NyUynom_Bih1g2M/s1600/31405_1490913070455_1162849968_31450347_8038226_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiitpNsKOEnLjY8Trll6Phj_zWo5vVbYJ9knFdRCPlVlIEgzrWGbK5_BFlpncAZ42Lnke2u1b9GxZtPR5nvuu8lfTBTmPEvasw-dC1ahruQYm4ZlovTp6xsI5wxV3S3NyUynom_Bih1g2M/s320/31405_1490913070455_1162849968_31450347_8038226_n.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
Wow, just wow. No tips here except to find a fabulous cakestress and channel your birthday cake dreams from when you were a little girl. (If any friends are out there listening, THIS is what I want for my 30th birthday.) Apparently, the bride was inspired by Marie Antoinette and I think she translated her vision perfectly with this cake. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqjwB6P3h0TyqmJKdEY_jvpV3OvtlgmTAqQ7EDlqxay1O_V8B1_92g7tpbEfoapCJWv8667AenVUOgKu1wuChVw0Dq1OtY-z3lGnJiD5VC-jaUWykfYs_4fsxjroUAVkdVxCZGN_myHL4/s1600/31405_1490913670470_1162849968_31450357_7158816_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqjwB6P3h0TyqmJKdEY_jvpV3OvtlgmTAqQ7EDlqxay1O_V8B1_92g7tpbEfoapCJWv8667AenVUOgKu1wuChVw0Dq1OtY-z3lGnJiD5VC-jaUWykfYs_4fsxjroUAVkdVxCZGN_myHL4/s320/31405_1490913670470_1162849968_31450357_7158816_n.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">How sweet is this? Dessert buffets are everywhere and while they are a great addition to a celebration, a cotton candy treat is a refreshing change of pace. It would certainly set a fun, lighthearted mood for your guests. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8T5zO6Ni-x6hkFRr468epoLI1hun9aQlAJcC_slopw2FCTaaBsd-37baKSXswjVG_Gzkcf8zx_zRiYxmr8kZc3oB5nMpNa7LURmfDNLVOkSPfYIVPlP0B7G3GjHmuhTqTvUqn-MxgusM/s1600/31405_1490913390463_1162849968_31450352_241921_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8T5zO6Ni-x6hkFRr468epoLI1hun9aQlAJcC_slopw2FCTaaBsd-37baKSXswjVG_Gzkcf8zx_zRiYxmr8kZc3oB5nMpNa7LURmfDNLVOkSPfYIVPlP0B7G3GjHmuhTqTvUqn-MxgusM/s320/31405_1490913390463_1162849968_31450352_241921_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Loveliness all around! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.prestonbailey.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div>Socializehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08632130182529242035noreply@blogger.com0