Murder Me Always...

murder-mystery.JPG The date has been set. The linens are pressed. The china and silver have been polished and you can practically hear the ice clinking in your glasses. Yet another awesome event to be held at Perfect Settings. Come and find out who done it!

Hope to hear from you but hurry we expect to sell out all three performances.

It wouldn't be a post if I didn't end it with... Come one, come all!!

Besame

Besame Cosmetics is in my listing of favorites on the right side here. One look on her site you'll see why. There's a saying in Spanish that says; the cheap always is expensive in the end. That's what happens when you cut corners. Besame Cosmetics is above what you find at the drug store. It was written about in Bride Magazine. I contacted the CEO to get her approval of the link and when we chatted she told me:Modern bride liked our lipsticks because they are small and can fit into a tiny bag for the bride to carry. They liked the reds for the more daring brides or the light pink for a more natural look. For gifts, we have beautiful trio sets that include a lipstick, a loose powder and a petite blush. Our signature compacts are also nice as wedding bridesmaids gifts, since they are refillable and made of metal that can be engraved.

How cool is that? I know I'd like a tube of lipstick with my name written all over it. I just think that's very chic and yet classic. Think about this when you're looking for a bridesmaid gift - or, heck, any gift. Also, I was intrigued by the fact that she named her business Besame. If you read my blog from April you know that I love the song Besame Mucho... which means Kiss me a lot. You will also know that I said Sanjaya sang the most beautiful rendition of Besame Mucho on American Idol. (that link wasn't available in April... check it out!) So, I was interested to know why it was named as such. Well, besides the obvious (you know, sexy painted lips) Gabriella says that just the name of the song and its origin of romance inspired the name. Pretty cool stuff.

Take me out to the ball...

Yesterday the family (minus one) went to the Barnstormers Game for Columbia Night. While there we started to talk about the time that one of our friends (Shawn) hit a line drive right into Anthony's chest and broke his collar bone when he was about 4 years old. Shawn felt awful about this for years... so we take advantage of that. While we were on Vacation to see Shawn and Robin, earlier this summer, this conversation came up (then too) to which Shawn had amnesia about the whole incident. I was telling Anthony this during the game and he pulled my Blackberry from my handbag and shot Shawn an email while at the game. Here it is: Sent: Tuesday, July 31, 2007 9:37 PM Subject: That baseball

> Hiya shawn and robin, > This is little tony... The family and I are currently attending the friendly neighborhood barnstormers game (the local baseball team just in case your lancaster lingo is a bit rusty)... Anyhow several foul balls made it to my direction which triggered vivid flash backs of my altercation as a young lad. Then my mother brought to my attention that shawn denies being the driving force behind the ball that crushed my tender collar bone. As the victim of this incident, I just want to set the record straight. I shall never forget the frightening attack.

Everybody is a comedian these days!

Advice

I could write about this myself but a friend and colleague did better, she blogged about it and shared it with me this morning. It couldn't be said any better than what Isis said here: "A very good friend of mine contacted me today to let me know that his friend was getting married in Vegas and he wanted to know if I had any recommendations, good links, etc. Quite naturally, I pointed him in the direction of Tracey Kumer-Moore of Your Las Vegas Wedding Concierge, who is an extraordinary planner and quoted him her hourly rate. I recommended that his friend sit down and speak with her and after 2 hours or so, I’m confident she’ll be well on her way…after all-I live in NJ, I plan in NJ, DE and PA…I am clueless as to quality vendors in Las Vegas and it didn’t seem like taking my Vendors to Vegas was an opportunity his friend would be willing to entertain… Logical right?

His response- eh, not looking to pay for advice… thank you anyway though

Ok, someone please help me…

If you needed to defend yourself, you’d contact a lawyer; hurt-call the doctor; car breaks down-dial a mechanic…Not necessarily looking for “the cure” but some advice to lead you in the right direction so that you can narrow down just what the issue may be.

So…why in the world, when you are participating in what for most is the 2nd largest expense in your life, would you just “wing it”? I’m a bit confused.

I know there are authors who recommend not hiring a Wedding Planner and every magazine that you pick up these days shows you the easiest way to plan your big day. Can you do it-absolutely! It’s no secret; people have been doing it for years.

The difference is, when you hire a Professional Wedding Planner, someone who is trained in the field as opposed to the new generation of “wanna be’s”, you are paying for sound, expert knowledge in the SKILL of planning a Wedding. We have invested time and a substantial amount of money to research the industry and reputable vendors, learn the skill of negotiating, contract review and budgeting, execute the flawless movement of 300 plus people from one location to another, in under 30 minutes for a 5 hour event involving alcohol (and it’s liability), massive amounts of food consumption and on average 6 other vendors, on time and without complication.

After spending $30,000 to assure that you have the day of your dreams, $300 for a consultation to guarantee that you get what you are expecting, just doesn’t seem to compare.

I know that budgeting for a Wedding is extremely difficult and I am very conscious that as it gets down to the wire, money becomes the determining factor for a lot of decisions. I also have personally planned enough Weddings to know that when I do the last “fluff” of the veil and I lock eyes with my Client, in that moment of silent communication-we both agree that all of the time, dedication, effort and money spent to execute her vision, has just paid off-there are no regrets and no fear and she is ready to begin the next phase of her life.

This is why we do what we do. Believe me, it is a job unlike any other."

Amen there Isis, well said!!

Hot Topic

RSVPs....Definition: répondez s'il vous plaît (please reply) It's been the hot topic of conversation for the past few months - as it is every year this time of year. Every bride or hostess asks me at least once during planning... "why don't people RSVP?" I wish I knew. It just doesn't happen and even after the drop dead date people still send in a response card. Hear ye, hear ye!!! 1. RSVPs do apply to you. 2. The "respond by date" is there for a reason. We need to get numbers to the caterer. 3. If you respond that you are coming, please come. Because you said you'd come - no other reason. 4. When you said you are coming the host has paid for your plate - end of story. If you don't come they still have to pay. 5. Have some couth. Definition; showing or having good manners or sophistication; smooth 6. If you can't come call well before the dead line so that we can take you off their payment list. 7. Calling in your RSVP doesn't count!! The host has already paid for postage. Write your name on the card and put it in your mailbox to be picked up by the Postman. It's that simple, people. 8. If your inside envelope has your name only that means you are the only one in your household that is invited. That's normal etiquette. Adding a name to the RSVP is soooo not cool. It puts everyone in an awkward position. 9. CHILDREN ARE NOT INVITED TO WEDDING RECEPTIONS. Unless otherwise noted. Don't call and ask if your child is excluded from this rule. They are not! ... there's that awkward position, again. 10. Choose what you want to eat... not where you are to sit!! I could elaborate on this but choose not to.... *sigh*

As you can tell, I'm very passionate about this. What's funny is that RSVPs should be the easiest part of planning and it, by far, is not. If you are invited to a party, wedding, reception, function or gathering.... have some couth... RESPOND. RSVP = répondez s'il vous plaît

Look good at a wedding but don't overdo it!

That was the article in today's morning paper. It shows the beautiful Teri Hatcher walking out of the ceremony site for her friend and coworker, Eva Longoria. Teri, of course, breaking all the rules has a powder blue prom dress on - really wearing that dress. There's a caption next to the picture that says "At times, the usual rules of fashion etiquette don't apply to the famous." Nooooo! You don't say.The article goes on to tell the normal wedding-goer the dos and don'ts of wedding apparel. These apply to you and me. It was written in part by Rachael Donaldson the host of Bravo's "Project Runway" 1. Read the invitation for clues. If it's an evening affair you'd be safe to wear a black gown or tux but if the invite says "Family Farm" on it you may heed the warning and forgo the gown and wear a simple dress. But should the invite "have lots of pages, tissue layers and response cards, it signals a dressy event." 2. When in doubt, overdress. The article states that "you can always take off your tie and unbutton your shirt" if it's casual. There's a huge however coming along here.... I've seen mothers of the brides, mothers of the grooms, guest and family show up in very beautiful gown but they're 2 sizes too small or worse yet too revealing. Don't do it guys. And for you brides; don't loose sleep over what so-and-so is wearing, if they ask for your opinion please be frank! 3. But don't overdo it. I've already covered that in #2 but the article points out that it's distracting if you wear something inappropriate. You should also not consider this as a night out with the hubby when you get a baby sitter - don't look like you're going clubbing. 4. Black is a go, white is a no. It says that for summer weddings choosing navy blue instead of black because black isn't universally flattering and can look more funeral than festive... uh... I disagree. If done properly anyone can look fabu in black unless you're wearing that power suit that you gave a presentation to the board in. 5. Be discreet. This is a good one. If your dress is very sexy wear a wrap to the church. There are still some things in this world that some hold sacred and that's a church sanctuary. Have the big reveal at the reception. "You'll whip off your wrap and stun the room with the beauty of your shoulders." - I don't think she was talking about me when she wrote that. In a nut shell: Taken almost verbatim except for the excerpts by me. Morning: Light fabrics, dresses knee-length, accessories discreet. Afternoon: Be festive but refine with a sleeveless dress, open-toe shoes (NO STOCKINGS!!!) and bangles. Evening: Wear a chic cocktail dress or gown when specified on the invite. Color is good; avoid bold prints. Destination: A printed sundress is acceptable, beaded thongs (flip flops, people) or metallic flats and a silky fringed shawl are perfect for a beach wedding.

Slideshow

Lovin' it! Let me know what you think!! BTW.... He's saying; "Have I told you I ache" - I actually thought he was saying "Have I told you I ain't" - not good for a wedding coordinator's web site.

In the business of robbing

robber001.jpg

Ok... this is the kind of robber I would be if I was a robber. This article cracked me up. I guess this guy wanted to sleep that night and was just wanting to share a little love. Why can't we all just be friends?

Beagles need a home.

I received this email today - with much alarm. If my husband didn't love Pebby so much I'd consider this. If you are interested please let me know. BEAGLES I am attaching a list of 28 beagles that belonged to our friend. He was murdered about 3 weeks ago in Marion, SC while at his kennel attending to his beagles by a former employee needing money for crack cocaine. They are all registered, up to date on all shots. Been field trained and have won many trophies. Some are too old or in bad health and can't hunt anymore but would make wonderful pets for someone. No charge for any of the dogs, family just wants to place them in good homes for pets or for hunting. Marion and I will be glad to transport dogs. Please pass this on to anyone that you know that may be interested or able to pass on to others. I appreciate your help as always..

POODLES There is a poodle breeder who wants to rehome 10 mini poodles approx age range 6 months to 5 years. Also, there are several standard poodles too. These poodles are close to Ephrata, PA thank you.

As if that's not bad enough...

I was contacted by a woman in NJ who is trying to help a Lab Mix named Smokey. He is 2-3 yrs old and KNOWS AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE. This dog has a wonderful gift and there must be someone out there that could benefit from these skills and give Smokey a forever home.

Thank you so much for helping us to get the word out - this boy deserves a family who will appreciate all of his hard work and skill set

UGH... how sad is that. To all of you dog lovers out there, please consider adopting a doggie in my name, even. There are lots of dogs named Daisy.

It's 125...

I've had lots of people call me regarding my knot ad because it says we accommodate 100 people. I changed that b/c I was advertising for up to 150 but was getting calls from people that were looking for 170 for cocktails. Truth be told it's 130 (I like 125 better - those 5 people do make a difference), we could do 150 as a cocktail reception - which I've done.Why do I advertise up to 100, you ask? Here were my choices.... __UP TO 50 __UP TO 100 __UP TO 150 __UP TO 200 __UP TO 250 __UP TO 300 __UP TO 350 __UP TO 400 __MORE THAN 400

So even though I don't like to dissuade someone from booking here... you wouldn't be happy with trying to fit a 150 reception into a 125 venue. I really can accommodate 125 very comfortably. Sorry to those who have called between the time of 150 and 100.... there just wasn't anything in between.

When kids say too much

Here's a great article from this week's Columbia Ledger.ice-cream-social001.jpg

What is not included in the article was the smaller of the two little girls flirting with the reporter and asking him for his number. It was priceless! Something for everyone at the ice cream socials! Don't miss this months social on July 27th... come one call all... I always say that don't I?

THE PERFECT DRESS

My girlfriend, Sue, sent this to me. .... ummmm.... enjoy....

Jennifer's wedding day was fast approaching. Nothing could dampen her excitement -- not even her parents' nasty divorce. Her mother had found the PERFECT dress to wear and would be the best dressed mother-of-the-bride ever! A week later, Jennifer was horrified to learn that her father's new young wife had bought the exact same dress as her mother! Jennifer asked her step mom to exchange it, but she refused. "Absolutely not !!! I look like a million bucks in this dress, and I'm wearing it," she replied. Jennifer told her mother who graciously said, "Never mind sweetheart. I'll get another dress. After all, it's your special day." A few days later, they went shopping and did find another gorgeous dress. When they stopped for lunch, Jennifer asked her mother, "Aren't you going to return the other dress? You really don't have another occasion where you could wear it." Her mother just smiled and replied, "Of course I do, dear. I'm wearing it to the rehearsal dinner the night before the wedding."

NOW I ASK YOU - IS THERE A WOMAN OUT THERE, ANYWHERE, WHO WOULDN'T ENJOY THIS STORY?

Ice Cream

I had a thought cross my mind today. Why is it that Dairy Queen doesn't carry Lactaid over the counter when they sell their ice cream? Isn't that a great idea? I'm not necessarily lactose intolerant however, I know plenty of people who are - but I'm not supposed to tell family secrets. I should probably buy seasonal stock in that company... what a great invention... anyway let me tell you, these people are missing out on the joy of eating ice cream - and what great joy it is! Granted they have water ice but there is nothing like having a great big bowl of your favorite ice cream topped with caramel. Which is a great segue; the Fabulous Fourth Friday for Columbia is tomorrow and yours truly is hosting an ice cream social with all of the fixin's. I can't promise I'll personally have lactaid but I can promise you that someone attending in my space will!!

*sigh* LOVE

I have to have the best job in the world. A picture truly can say a thousand words... maybe even a million. Here they are.... Bethany and Jason. Finally married!bethany_jason-pic-for-blog.jpg

3 things to regret

So this is the beginning of wedding season regrets. If you are planning on getting married read on!!Most brides call me after they get back from their honeymoon - or sometimes they call me on the way to the airport - to tell me what they loved the most and what they hated the most. The loves are good ones but the hates are better, so try to avoid them. 1. They didn't hire a videographer. I need not say a whole lot here about this.... find it in your budget to hire a videographer. I have video vendors that will work with almost any budget. You don't care about it now while you're planning but you will in 10 yrs when I'm no longer here reminding you of things and you don't have that video to look back on. Hire the videographer! - no I don't get a kickback from my guys. 2. They didn't hire a make up artist. Ladies.... (and sometimes gents) this is simple. You invested so much money into your attire but no one is going to remember the crystal beading on your dress if your eyeshadow is awful. Artist run the gamut as far as pricing but one thing is certain - they're priceless.... you won't be mad at the photographer b/c your face is stark white in your pics... hire the artist... the photographer will thank you for it too - they'll spend less time editing. 3. and most importantly.... they drank too much. There's a real fat line between having a good time and drinking too much. Heed the warning when you're starting to feel droopy. You want to remember your wedding not the hang over you had the next day.

Pebby Vicious

Whitney took portraits of everyone at the black tie this w/e. She wanted to test her lighting so she took a picture of us - including the dog. During the shot Pebby decided to yawn and here's the end result. pebbyvicious.jpg

This struck me funny b/c people often say Pebbles doesn't qualify to be a dog then I lift her lips and say "show them your vicious, Pebby" so here she is showing her vicious.

June 9th

Time is a commodity right now for me but I wanted you to see - at least - one of the pictures from this week's black tie. Check out those chandeliers! There were so many great things about this party - no time to mention but will when I get a breather.for-blog.jpg