SAVE THE DATE & BE OUR GUEST!

As we introduce to our community our...

 

F.A.C.E.T.S.
Program for Pregnant Women

TUESDAY
MARCH 19th

6:00pm - 7:30pm

Join us as we unveil the launch of our
FACETS Program for Pregnant WomenFamily Achievement Created by Empowerment, Transformation & Sustainability!
MARK YOUR CALENDAR TODAY!

 

 Additional information about the community meeting will be available soon!

 

"Little to no education"!
"Epidemic of dependency on governmental support"!"...research showing that single-family households, particularly mother-headed households are at higher risk of poverty"!
"...living with an attitude of entitlement"!If you have a passion for seeing true change in the leadership development of pregnant women and their families,YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS THIS!

The FACETS Program for Pregnant Women is a division of the Pennies 4 HOPE Project of Charlotte, a local 501(c)(3) non profit organization.
For more information about the P4HP, please visit our recently improved website at www.pennies4hopeproject.org or email us at info@pennies4hopeproject.org.
Thank you, we look forward to hearing from you!

 


 

Vendor Tips for Bridal Shows

"The Wedding Affair" - has your vendor tips when participating in upcoming bridal shows...


1. Before the Bridal Show:


• Set Goals. It is important to organize yourself before attending a bridal show. Take a step back and think about why you are attending the event. You may be trying to gather new bride leads. You could be introducing a new product or service. It’s also possible that you want to further your relationship with wedding magazines and bloggers. Those are just a few of the more popular reasons why wedding vendors attend these events. Be sure to make a list of your main goals and keep them in mind throughout this process.

Bridal Wedding Savings Coupons

"The Wedding Affair" - Join us for  "The Wedding Affair" - Plan A Wedding - Plan A Life - April 21-22, 2012

 Just  engaged don't miss out on "The Wedding Affair", the best place to be to meet with vendors for all your wedding needs and after the wedding.   Register today for at www.nytheweddingaffair.com.    The Wedding Affair is here to help your bridal planning a breeze.


Your Bridal Wedding Savings Coupons -

PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

AtUrBest Special Events
www.aturbest.com
Phone–866.767.7935
Fax –866.295.6201
events@aturbest.com

www.aturbest2.blogspot.com

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Amanda Sherman

“The Wedding Affair”

To Collaborate with a NC Regional Bride to help her experience the Maya Marriage of Many in Belize on 12/12/12

In conjunction with Romantic Travel Belize will experience the Magical Wedding Ceremony Set in Ancient Mayan Temple Set for 12.12.12

36 Couples Will Partake in Once in a Lifetime

Unique Wedding Experience

/24-7PressRelease/-Charlotte, NC –January 1, 2012 – AtUrBest Special Events is looking for “The Wedding Affair” Signature Bride & Groom to win an opportunity that will surpass their wildest dreams.  AtUrBest Events has been selected to join forces with a North Carolina Regional Bride to win a coveted Wedding-Moon Package at the luxurious Maya Marriage of Many in Belize.  This epic Wedding Event will be held on the last of the alliteration dates, 12/12/12, just days before the 5,126 year old Ancient Maya Calendar ends.  

"The Wedding Affair" Searching For Bridezillas

"The Wedding Affair" -

 Is proud to announce the search for Bridezillas for Season 9.  "The Wedding Affair" and it's affiliates are looking for the right couples to be a part of a wonderful and exciting show. 

Our New Look

We've had to keep our lips sealed for the past few months, but we're very excited
to finally announce that AtUrBest Special Events -The first thing we'd like to point out
is our new look. It's stronger and bolder than ever before.

"The Wedding Affair" - features Our Premier -Bridal Gown Designer - Bryan K. Osburn

"The Wedding Affair" is proud to announce that Mr. Bryan K. Osburn, will be showcasing his wonderful bridal gown designs at the upcoming bridal event -April 21-22, 2012 in Gastonia, NC.

Brides join us - wouldn't it be wonderful to have your own speciality gown created for you and you only.

Food & Wine Events: East Bay and Beyond

Bay Area News Group


Moe's Cookbook Series -- 7:30 p.m. May 25. Bay Area pop-up chef Suzanne Drexhage will discuss her favorite cookbooks during this new discussion series, moderated by Stanislaw Sobolewski, a Moe's cookbook buyer for the last decade. The series includes guest speakers, featured books and food samplings. 2476 Telegraph Ave., Berkeley. 510-849-2087.

Olson's 15th annual Cherry Festival -- 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. May 28-29. This annual festival at historic Sunnyvale cherry stand features orchard tours, cherry pit-spitting contests, cherry pancakes and live music. "The New Green Grocer" author Pete Carcione will sign books noon-2 p.m. May 28. Birthday cake at noon May 29. Free. C.J. Olson Cherries, 348 W. El Camino Real. www.cjolsoncherries.com.

Rocks and Rhones Festival -- 11 a.m.-4 p.m. May 28-29. Plan a fabulous weekend of gourmet food and wine pairing with the winemakers and owners of four family owned and operated wineries in the heart of the El Dorado appellation wine country. Choose one day to visit all four wineries, Holly's Hill, Miraflores, Narrow Gate and Sierra Vista. $30-$35. 530-344-0227, www.rocksandrhones.com.

Jamaican Jerk Cook-Off -- Noon- 5 p.m. May 30. Jerk Masters will compete for the winning title, with live entertainment, music featuring New York's DJ Winston, and a Kids' Zone. Libations from Linden Street Brewery, New Belgium

Brewing Company and Periscope Cellar. Feed your inner fashionista with stylish gear from Oaklandish. Linden Street Brewery, 95 Linden St., Oakland. $10 per entry includes two tickets for wine, beer, or jerk tasting. Limited tickets available for entry, advance tickets can be purchased online at. Additional food and beverage tickets sold at the door. This is a family friendly event, free admission for children 12 and under. www.lindenbeer.com.

Pasta Shop's Third annual Festival of California Extra Virgin Olive Oil -- Noon-3 p.m. June 4. Enjoy tastings, panel discussions, cooking demos and conversations with olive oil producers. In addition to tasting the oils, recipes will be prepared using different oils to show how flavor profiles directly change the taste of the finished recipes. And not to be missed on the patio, The Ice Cream and Olive Oil Bar, offering a variety of combinations, such as vanilla gelato with a robust olive oil, topped with sea salt. Tasty snacks made with olive oil will be offered including signature recipes from The Pasta Shop -- olive oil brownies, olive oil cake and challah. 1786 Fourth St., Berkeley. 510-250-6004, www.pastashop4thst.com.

Le Vin Au Jardin -- 12:30-5 p.m. June 4. This wine and garden party celebrates the release of Rodrigue Molyneaux Winery's new Château Molyneaux label. Stroll the gardens, enjoy music by Les Farrington and savor elegant French food created by executive chef Tracy Flores. $10. 3053 Marina Ave., Livermore. 925-443-1998, www.rmwinery.com.

Wine Rodeo -- 4-8 p.m. June 11. Pair Rock Wall's handcrafted wines with some of the best barbecue from award-winning barbecue chef Ray Green, while enjoying great country music entertainment. 2301 Monarch St., Suite 300, Alameda. $30-$45. 510-522-5700.

Taste of Mendocino -- 1-5 p.m. June 13. Sip, sample, taste and buy "all things Mendocino" at this exclusive marketplace-meets-showcase event. The marketplace will include more than 60 wineries, organic beer, artisan olive oil, preserves, eggs, cheese and grass-fed beef and lamb producers as well as favorite dishes from local restaurants. Festival Pavilion at Fort Mason Center, Buchanan Street and Marina Boulevard, San Francisco. $35-$45. www.tasteofmendo.com.

Truckee RibFest -- 1-6 p.m. June 19. This casual event will offer folks the chance to sample delicious ribs prepared by the best chefs in the Tahoe area -- a perfect afternoon outing for hungry dads and their families. 12047 Donner Pass Road, Truckee. $10-$15. 530-550-2252, www.truckeeribfest.com

Chocolate Extravaganza -- 6:30-9 p.m. June 25. Taste delicious chocolate treats and enjoy the chocolate fountain during this benefit that features entertainment by the musicians of the Pinole Valley High School West County Conservatory of the Arts. 592 Tennent Ave., Pinole. $20-$25. 510-724-9141.

Connoisseurs' Marketplace -- 10 a.m.-6 p.m. July 16-17. Enjoy chefs' demos, festive food and drink, microbrews, margaritas, mojitos and more. Santa Cruz Avenue between El Camino Real and Johnson Street, Menlo Park. 650-325-2818, www.miramareevents.com.

SF Chefs 2011 -- Aug. 1-7. This weeklong celebration highlights Northern California chefs, winemakers, mixologists, farmers and artisanal food producers. Enjoy the Grand Tasting Tent and savor tastes at smaller, special events all week. $25-$150. San Francisco Union Square; www.sfchefsfoodwine.com.

Millbrae Art and Wine Festival -- Sept. 3-4. Two sun-splashed days of festive food and drink, live music, art exhibits, Chinese dragon dance and taiko drum performances, and children's activities. Broadway Avenue between Victoria and Meadow Glenn, Millbrae. 650-697-7324, www.miramarevents.com.

Lake Tahoe Autumn Food and Wine Festival -- Sept. 9-11. Lake Tahoe's premier gourmet event includes chef battles, outdoor grilling demonstrations, a celebrity chef luncheon, gourmet marketplace, grape stomp and more. www.GoTahoeNorth.com.

Mountain View Art and Wine Festival -- Sept. 10-11. A massive multicultural celebration featuring festive food and drink, live music and an action-packed Kids' Park. Castro Street between El Camino Real and Evelyn Avenue, Mountain View. 650-968-8378, www.miramarevents.com.

Lake Tahoe Restaurant Week -- Oct. 2-9. Enjoy three-course, prix fixe menus at more than 60 participating restaurants throughout the Lake Tahoe region for $20, $30 or $40 per person; www.TahoeRestaurantWeek.com.

Brunch, lunch, dinners

Dine About Town San Francisco -- Lunch and dinner June 1-15. Diners may select from more than 100 San Francisco restaurants offering a two-course lunch menu for $17.95 and/or a three-course dinner menu for $34.95, excluding tax and gratuity. www.sanfrancisco.travel/dineabouttown.

Cooking Matters Brunch -- 10 a.m.-noon June 12. Fresh Approach's "Cooking Matters" program teaches free cooking and nutrition classes to low-income families around the Bay Area. Share a delicious farmers market brunch in the beautiful new market building at Jack London Square. $10. Webster Street and Embarcadero, Oakland. www.freshapproach.org.

Festa del Papa -- 11 a.m.-8 p.m. June 19. Celebrate Father's Day with a special three-course, summery brunch. There's a children's version, too. $68 for grown-ups; children younger than 12 pay their age. Four Seasons Hotel Silicon Valley 2050 University Ave., East Palo Alto. 650-566-1200.

Contests

Foster Farms Second annual Fresh Chicken Cooking Contest -- Deadline to enter is May 31. The winner will receive a grand prize of $10,000 plus a one-year supply of Foster Farms fresh chicken. Submit your favorite, original chicken recipes for consideration. Recipes must feature Foster Farms fresh chicken and should be inspired by ingredients grown on the West Coast as a testament to Foster Farms' commitment to foods that are fresh, locally grown and always natural. Contest will culminate with finals Sept. 30 at the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone in St. Helena during National Chicken Month. www.fosterfarms.com/cookingcontest, cookingcontest@fosterfarms.com, Foster Farms, Cooking Contest, P.O. Box 306, Livingston, CA 95334.

Bake On and Give Back with the Duncan Hines 1 Million Cupcake Challenge -- July 24 deadline. Duncan Hines invites bakers across the country to join its 1 Million Cupcake Challenge to help end childhood hunger. Working with Share Our Strength's Great American Bake Sale, Duncan Hines hopes to inspire passionate bakers with a national baking and fundraising movement. www.duncanhines.com/cupcakechallenge.

So You Think You Can Cook With Garlic -- An all-comers cooking competition on Facebook and culminating before a live audience July 29 in the Cook-Off Theater. The contest is open to amateur chefs age 18 and older who post a video of themselves preparing their recipe, on the Gilroy Garlic Festival Facebook page at Facebook.com/garlicfestival. Contest rules are available on the festival Facebook page and at gilroygarlicfestival.com. The winning chef will receive $810 in cash from KGO radio and the runner-up a $250 gift card from Raley's/Bel Air Markets/Nob Hill Foods.

Conference center officials: This means business

May 18, 2011 6:57 PM
Ragan Robinson



Gastonia’s city manager says the first event to contract with the Gastonia Conference Center — to the tune of $42,000 — is exactly the kind of affair the city wanted.

“We’re still five months from opening and they’re booking quality events,” said Jim Palenick.

Wednesday, the center’s manager and director of sales presented him a signed agreement for a bridal show to be produced by At Your Best Special Events.

The show is scheduled for April 20, 2012. Because it is a three-day affair, sales director Carol Queen says it should bring business to downtown restaurants as well as hotels and shops in Gastonia.

She estimates the occasion could attract 500 to 600 over the weekend.

Queen says the show itself could also open doors for companies such as florists and caterers that supply wedding services.

“Local vendors may capture events that would have gone to Charlotte,” she said.

Such events attract brides-to-be, who are prepared to spend money, according to Palenick.

Catered meals for the show’s vendors will also mean business going directly to some local operations, says Tony Swainey, the general manager for the conference center.

Eleven Gaston-area caterers have already contracted to provide food for conference center events, he said.

Swainey said it’s rare for an unfinished building to have bookings. He expects having a marketing and sales team in place early will help bring in events more quickly when the center opens in the fall.

Swainey says the staff has 18 proposals for different events. He anticipates landing more than half of them.

Among the interested parties are individuals who have celebrations to host, corporations who need training space, nonprofits and fraternal groups.

“It helps that there was a desperate need,” Swainey said.

Bridesmaids The Movie "Now Showing"

Want something different and funny to do with your bridal party checkout Bridesmaids The Movie.... it is a funny comedy... "Compare Notes..."

Director:
Paul Feig

Writers:
Kristen Wiig, Annie Mumolo

Stars:
Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph and Rose Byrne


Storyline

Annie (Kristen Wiig), is a maid of honor whose life unravels as she leads her best friend, Lillian (Maya Rudolph), and a group of colorful bridesmaids (Rose Byrne, Melissa McCarthy, Wendi McLendon-Covey and Ellie Kemper) on a wild ride down the road to matrimony. Annie's life is a mess. But when she finds out her lifetime best friend is engaged, she simply must serve as Lillian's maid of honor. Though lovelorn and broke, Annie bluffs her way through the expensive and bizarre rituals. With one chance to get it perfect, she'll show Lillian and her bridesmaids just how far you'll go for someone you love.

Black Bride.com's First Annual Bridal Showcase

Sunday April 17th, 2011

11:00AM to 5:00 PM
$10 in advance
$12 at the door
(space is limited, may not be available day of show)
Purchase Tickets

Marriott Marquis Hotel
265 Peachtree Center Ave
Atlanta, GA 30303

A bridal show like you have never seen, the ultimate wedding planning forum for all women of color! Looking for a unique way to decorate your reception while incorporating cultural traditions, or the latest trends in floral arrangements? Our bridal showcase will answer your wedding planning questions and provide interactive access to the best exhibitors in the business.

Institute for Entrepreneurship - Upcoming Events

These Are Free Seminars - Offer By Central Piedmont Community College at the Institute for Entrepreneurship

Networking a Tool for Success SBX 7888-502
Networking is more than just a social hobby. It's all about who you know and how you utilize those relationships. Effective networking is a skill that is developed by practice and can be a very rewarding tool for your business. Free
Date: Wednesday, April 7 Time: 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.



Easy Steps to Creating a Marketing Plan SBX 7817-501
What's the best way to reach your customers? How do you know? Marketing can make or break a business which is why a marketing plan is considered one of the most important parts of your business strategy. Learn what should be included in a marketing plan and why, and where to get the information. Discover easy steps for putting together a plan that's right for your business. Date: Monday, April 12 Time: 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.


Greening Your Business SBX 7849-501
Stimulate your green thinking and become part of the latest "environmentally responsible" business trends. Find out what it means to go green and see what advantages there are by making your business more sustainable. Learn what you can do in the way you purchase, provide your service, produce your product, or even plan your business if you're in the start-up phase. This informative seminar will show you how to make small changes today that will have a big impact tomorrow.
Date: Monday, April 19 Time: 6:30 - 8:30 pm

Doing Business with the City of Charlotte SBX 7828-502
From buying office supplies to contracting for cleaning services, the City of Charlotte uses all types of small businesses. A city representative will describe vendor programs and its purchasing process models: Request for Quote (RFQ), Invitation to Bid (ITB) and Request for Proposal (RFP). Find out what you need to know to locate contract opportunities.
Date: Wednesday, April 21 Time: 6:30 - 8:30 pm Location: Matthews Library


Taxes and Record Keeping SBX 7822-501
The day-to-day tasks of running a small business can easily crowd out time for "keeping the books." Learn about your tax responsibilities, record keeping and filing requirements and ease the time you spend filing tax reports.
Date: Monday, April 26 Time: 6:30 - 8:30 pm Location: University Library

To register for seminars please call 704-330-4223

COMMUNITY ENTREPRENEURS HOSTS ANOTHER B.Y.O.B

(Bring Your Own Business) or learn about businesses in your community. Free Food Event!

DATE: Tuesday, March 16, 2000
TIME: 6:30 - 9:00 P.M. COST: FREE
PLACE: McCrorey YMCA 3801 Beatties Ford Road, Charlotte, NC 28216

Come with an open mind. Be a part of a vital networking opportunity to meet and greet local entrepreneurs offering their services, strategies and money making opportunities while encouraging you too to be successful during this time of economic recovery.

Keep in Mind.... "Necessity is still the mother of invention!"

Surprise, Surprise, Surprise, Its Time For Prom & Graduation Ideas

The other day I met up with my cousin and it is hard to believe that it is time for Prom and Graduation. I couldn't believe that her oldest daughter is ready to graduate from high school. Now the family is getting together to have her party but before that we have to work on the Prom. So are you ready to help your senior get ready for the prom or the graduation (here are some ideas and gift ideas)...

Prom theme ideas - Choose from our popular prom décor in several of the best prom themes including Hollywood, Casino, and Paris. Creative decor will make your event spectacular and create memories for years to come.


Prom decor and favors - Find prom backgrounds, gossamer, photo backdrops, banners, and a selection of the best supplies and products you need to make your prom more elegant and stylish.


Crowns and tiaras - If you are looking for king crowns, or stylish but affordable tiaras, you will appreciate the large selection of royalty items and prom tiaras at Prom Wishes. Find the special one to highlight your style and receive royal treatment.

Prom themes and supply - From Mardi Gras prom backdrops to flutes and themed booklets, you'll find more supplies for your prom night right here than in the other free prom catalogs. Prom Wishes has printed booklets, tickets, invitations and favors of all kinds. They even have large prom backgrounds for more enticing photos. Build on your chosen prom themes and ideas with matching decor and supplies.

Top 10 Prom Themes

Below is a list of the top 10 prom themes we have seen done, or know that work for high school dances. Basically any theme can be made a top 10 as long as it is well thought out and planned in advance.

1.) Tomorrow Never Dies Prom Theme (James Bond)
2.) Hollywood Prom Theme
3.) Masquerade Prom Theme
4.) Irish Prom Themes
5.) Water Prom Themes
6.) Arabian Nights Theme for Proms
7.) Egyptian Prom Theme
8.) Black Tie Prom Theme
9.) Carnival Prom Theme
10.) Paris Prom Theme

High School Prom Colors

There are many colors for you to choose from. You can either have them slightly offset, match your school colors, or have them be completely different. I recommend having your high school prom colors match the theme.

This will give you dance more balance and keep things consistent with what students will be expecting. A couple of events based just on colors:

All White Party Prom Theme
Black and White Ball Prom Theme

How to Choose a Prom Theme

Which one should you go with? Do you need more help with how to choose a prom theme? Well, it is important that you avoid doing the same prom theme two years in a row.

Also you should check with local high schools to make sure that you do not accidentally duplicate their ideas (this might create bitter feelings). Make sure you prom theme is achievable with the banquet facility you have chosen, and that resources for decorating can be found easily. Also order a variety of prom catalogs to give you an idea of what you have to work with.

Lastly hyping your high school prom is extremely important (this will help improve ticket sales). Make sure to play the song, and remind students of the theme with any school announcements/pep-rallies. Working with you budget is important for planning a high school prom dance, but you also have to give the students what they want.

What is that.... a great send off for the seniors and something that makes your freshmen and sophomores anticipation next years’ prom!

"Next Graduation Party Themes"
Gift Ideas: www.tsherman2.ordermygift.com/products

High School Graduation Party Themes

It seems like just yesterday you were holding your newborn in your arms and couldn't imagine what the future held for them. Now they are all grown up and graduating from high school. Here comes the trouble of celebrating their graduation by throwing them a great party. You first need to decide what kind of party you are going to have. Is it going to be small or is it going to be a large open house. You also need to consider what type of food and entertainment you want (if any). Here are some ideas for themes for graduation parties to get you on way your to planning your child's entrance into adulthood.

Sports
If your child was big into sports, throw them a sports-themed party. You can display pictures on them playing sports, the awards and trophies they have won and any articles that have been written about them. Buy some poster board and make a presentation of everything sports. For this type of party, you would need a big backyard or to have it at the park where there is plenty of room. Have areas with different sports going on. You can have a volleyball net, basketball hoop and soccer goals. The guest can have fun playing during the party. Party stores have tons of different decorations that have sports on them, and you can mix them with graduation party decorations. Have the cake have a sports theme with a bunch of balls or a picture of your child from their sports team.

College School Spirit.
If your child is a fanatic about the college they will be attending in the fall, make the school the theme of the party. Decorate the area in the colors of the college. Have your child wear an outfit in the school's logo. Hang up decorations that have to do with the college. You can find different school's accessories on their online bookstores. You can have the cake be in the school's colors with the mascot on it. Make a poster with fun facts about the school. You can definitely get creative with this theme.


Have this party be all about the graduate's life. You can make poster boards and scrapbooks with pictures of your child from when they were born up until their graduation pictures. Have a quiz to see who knows the graduate the best. Ask questions like who is their favorite musician, what is their favorite television show and so on. The person that gets the most correct wins a prize. Make all of your child's favorite foods to eat. Just make the party completely on the interest and life of your child.

Beach Party
If your child loves the beach or is going away to college somewhere near the beach, throw a beach party. If you do not live near a beach, this can easily be done in your backyard or at the local park. Get a couple of kiddie pools (or better yet if you already have a pool) and fill them with water. Have beach balls, squirt guns and water balloons for the guests to play with. You can also have your food served in buckets like the one that you make sand castles out of and use shovels as the spoons for the food. Spread out beach towels on the yard and beach chairs for people to relax on. Think of anything beach themed and get creative.

Information provided by "Associated Content"

Gift Ideas: http://tsherman2.ordermygift.com

Happy Groundhog's Day

Good Morning,

First I like to start out by saying its raining in the Good Ole Charlotte area. I guess the ground hog didn't want to get wet to day.

Let me start by saying "Act Like A Lady Fashion Show went on as planned on January 30th, 2010. I want to thank all the guest that came out in spite of the terrible weather. "The Show Must Go On" phrase made the Owner and Co-Owner very proud. The Act Like A Lady Models were awesome.... much success to you all.




Please join us at for the Women of Metamorphosis @ Pura Vida Worldly Art
Plaza Midwood , 1521 Central Ave, Charlotte, NC 28205 704-335-8587: Saturday, February 6, 2010 at 2:30 p.m.

February's theme is Fit Finances. We jumpstarted 2010 by getting our bodies & minds in shape w/ the Fit Mind/Fit Body Challenge in January and now it's time to shift our focus to getting our finances in shape! If you haven't checked your FICO score for 2010, it's time to get it together.

Our Guest Speaker is Adrianna Vaughns she will be speaking on our finances and for our up and coming business owners she will give those tips we have been waiting for:



AtUrBest Special Events will to announce that we have two lucky couples for this years weddings on our calendar. We would like to thank both of our couples and look forward to watching you down the aisle.

Our first couple Lawanna Davis and Jacques McMillan will be married on Saturday, August 28, 2010. Details to follow. Congrats goes out to the happy couple
















Our second couple Latoshia Colbert and Stanley Abrahams will be married on Saturday, September 18, 2010. Details to follow. Congrats goes out to our happy couple
















We would like to invite all vendors who are interested in participated in the upcoming bridal show April 3, 2010:

VENDOR SPACE AVAILABLE. FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL PHYLLIS: OFFICE 914-380-6969
OR CELLULAR 646-201-6597 OR VISIT WWW.HARLEMWEDDINGSONLINE.COM
NEW ROCHELLE, HARLEM WEDDINGS,BRIDAL SHOW, APRIL 3, 2010,1:00—5:00 PM


Bridal Show Features, Live Performance, Bridal Fashion Show, Make-up Workshops
Las Vegas Destination Lounge, Bridal & Spa Lounge, Wedding Cake Tasting, Raffles, Giveaways and much more. . .

Location:
The Bethesda Ball Room; (C.M. Long Family Center), 71 Lincoln Ave., New Rochelle, NY 10801, Admission is FREE to Brides & Guest FREE Gift Bags, Gift bags while supp lies last. Content of gift bags varies. Includes Free subscription to Brides Magazine.
Produced by: Nicky Mayers -Your Wedding Affair, Sponsored by: Brides Magazine, Dessy Group, Wedalert,iPower Global Solutions, This is a non-alcoholic venue.


Get ready for our upcoming " Mother Daughter Tea" Saturday, April 24, 2010 between 1:00 p.m and 3:00 p.m. More Details to follow:

Just In For The Holidays - Creative Thank Yous

Sometimes you want to say thank you in a way that stands out. Consider these ideas for expressing your gratitude through creative, and in some cases handmade, ways.


* Cards. Personalize a thank you note with a handmade card. This can be done either through a computer program, or with card-making supplies purchased at a craft store. However you make the card, the message will be extra special since it comes on a card made especially for the recipient.

* Collages. Creating a collage of photos and memorabilia from a time or event can be a meaningful and creative way to say thank you. Consider this idea if someone helped you plan an event or was with you on a special day or trip. Put together a collage of memories from that time to thank the person for all they did to help. They will have the joy of receiving a special gift, and you will get to relive memories as you work on the project.

* Scrapbooks. A scrapbook, while similar to a collage or a photo album, can have many more added features. In addition to having much more space for photos, notes, and memorabilia, a scrapbook can have a theme carried throughout the book. If you want to give a special person in your life a reminder of how much they mean to you, consider thanking them with a personalized scrapbook that represents their unique place in your life.

* Memory jars. For this item, first gather approximately 30 strips of paper and begin writing on them special thoughts or stories relating to the person you want to thank. They can be funny or serious. Once you have gathered the strips, decorate a medium-size jar and fill it with the strips. Then present it to the person you would like to thank with a note instructing them to read one strip each morning for the next month. Be as creative as possible when decorating the jar, and try to choose a theme that fits the personality of the individual.

SYMBOLIC GIFTS

Clock/calendar. Present either the color or calendar with a note that reads, "Thanks for finding to time to help." Since this is a lighthearted gift, try to find a funny clock or calendar that will bring a laugh to the person you are presenting it to.

Basket of shiny apples. Give the basket of apples to someone special with the note, "You are a polished leader and the apple of our eye." Make sure the basket is decorated with a nice and polished!

Candle. Choose a candle with a nice scent or holder and leave it as a thank you with the note, "Your advice has lighted my path." This is a wonderful way to give a small token to someone who has been supportive in helping you make decisions.

Calculator. Sometimes you need to give a small gift to a special person, but you don't quite know what to get. Try giving a calculator engraved with the message, "All you do really adds up." This can be an especially good idea for volunteers or others who are instrumental in helping an organization or event get going.


Edible Thank Yous

Dinner - Try Something Unique-


Fondue. If you are looking for an original dinner idea that can also serve as a conversation piece, then fondue may be a great option for your thank you dinner. It is best in small group setting where people are comfortable with one another. There are many ways to prepare and serve fondue. For tips ands ideas check out the following website, which will provide you with all the information you need to hold a special thank you fondue dinner! www.gourmetsleuth.com/fondue.htm

Theme. To hold a dinner with a twist, decide on a theme and carry it through every part of the meal. For example, if the person you are thanking has a favorite vacation spot, such as a tropical island, then create the atmosphere with decorations and music, and serve a meal traditional in that area. The person you are thanking will enjoy the festivities and will know you have put a lot of thought into the occasion.

Cultural. Perhaps you are having a difficult time coming up with a theme, but you want a unique cultural experience. Try something new, a food or place that you would not normally choose and create an evening where people get to experience something different. Just make sure that the person you are thanking is adventurous.


Group event. There are times when you may want to thank a group of people for helping or supporting you. Hold a special dinner party in their honor and toast each one of them separately. Your toast does not need to be lengthy; after all you don't want dinner to get cold, but offer up a unique toast to each person and acknowledge to the group how each individual has been there for you.


Baking Delights.

Cookies, cakes, pies. Almost everyone can enjoy a small basket of cookies or perhaps a cake or pie to share with a group. This is a simple way to say thank you that shows how appreciative you are.

Casseroles. While not necessarily a good choice for every occasion, there are people in your life who are very busy and yet still take time out of their schedule to be there for you. Thank them by preparing a read-to-heat meal such as a casserole; this will give them a night off from cooking dinner and allow more time for other things. Parents will especially enjoy this thank you, which gives them ore time with the family and less time in the kitchen.

Specialty pizzas. Many times the easy way to say thank you to group, particularly in a volunteer setting is to order pizzas. Try to put a twist on this routine by either cooking or ordering specialty pizzas. There are all sorts of options of tasty and nutritious pizzas. There are all sorts of options for tasty and nutritious pizzas that have everything from chicken and mushrooms to goat cheese and red peppers.

MIDNIGHT MADNESS THANKSGIVING NIGHT…

Gala Affairs By AtUrBest
We are doing it again

Join Us
MIDNIGHT MADNESS THANKSGIVING NIGHT…
CAROLINA PREMIUM OUTLET

Location:
Carolina Premium Outlet
1025 Industrial Park Drive
Smithfield, NC 27577 US

When: Thursday, November 26, 8:30PM

Cost: $60.00 per person

Bus Pick Up & Drop Off
Weeping Willow AME Zion Church
2220 Milton Road
Charlotte, NC 28215
Bus Leaves 8:30 p.m. Returns 8:30 a.m.

Designer Fahisons & Sportswear, Shoes, Children Clothes, Fine Leather, Luggage, Accessories and Jewelry, Housewares, etc.

Cont'd "Birthday Weekend Celebration

OK so I am back... I have tried to do this from memory but I realized I was going to forget certain things... So I am treating this party just like any other event or wedding.. Just so I can stay on point.

Now lets pull out the Budget Planner... because really the budget is way below the red line- and yes I am taking donations from the children... I mean really its their Daddy's Party (and you know how girls feel about their Daddy)..

So I explain to both of them in order to have a wonderful event we need to start with the budget.. (my oldest famous line --I will give you my last $20.00) see what you can do with that -- of course you know what I told her...

Your Party Planning Checklist and Your Budget sheet will work together just like planning a wedding stick to your budget "Set a realistic spending goal".

Decorations Checklist, Drink Calculator

Remember this is just my standard planning checklist that I use for my events...

Party Planning Checklist:

THE ROOM

_______Location
_______Caterer
_______Liquor
_______Bartenders
_______Linens ______ Cloths (to floor?) _____ Napkins, Colors
_______Menu Planning ______ Cake
_______Votives, Votive Candles
_______Napkin Rings
_______Table Candy
_______Centerpieces
_______Table Games
_______Glitter or Confetti
_______Bathroom Florals ______Other locations

INVITATIONS/RSVP/Other Printed Items

_______Invitation to Ceremony, Party, Benefit or Main Event
_______Invitation to Reception (if applicable)
_______Response Card _____ Response Envelope
_______Bus. Card ______Kids Only ______ Out of Town Guests
_______Donation Card
_______Directional Card
_______Other... ______Luncheon _____Brunch or __________________
_______Calligraphy _____ Invitations _____ Seating Cards
_______Cocktail Napkins ________Matches
_______Programs ____Agenda _____ Newsletter

GIVE-Aways/PRIZES

_______T-Shirts
_______Caps
_______Socks
_______Glow _____Necklace ______Earrings ____Glasses
_______Trick
_______Theme Oriented Itesm
_______Premiums (items with company logo for corporate event)

OTHER

_______Photographer ______Videographer
_______Candles (candlelighting, other)
_______Dress Determination
_______Casual ____ Dressy Casual _____Dressy _____

OUT OF TOWN GUESTS

______Hotel Reservations
______Weekend-at-a-Glance or Itinerary
______Maps (to/from airport; other, locations)
______Transportation
______Welcome Gifts, Totes, Baskets
______2nd Mailing to Out-Of-Town Guests _____Calligraphy
______Tickets to local attractions
______Other________

DECORATIONS

______Sign-In- Board or Sign In Book
______Message Book
______Centerpieces
______Welcome Sign
______Entrance Piece At Door
______Band Backdrop
______Balloon Bouquets
______Buffets-Decor
______Buffets-Signage
______Ceiling Treatment(s)
______Outside lobby Area
______Sign Over Seating Cards
______Directional Signage
______Easels
______Other... Theme Oriented
______Company Display (if applicable)

ENTERTAINMENT

______DJ
______Band Type ________
______Music During Cocktails
______Magician
______Balloon Magic
______Clowns _____Jugglers ______Mimes Other _______
______Photo Favors
______Special Presentation: Who to emcee?_________ Who to present? ________
______Roasts ______Toasts ________Audio/Visual Needs?



***More to come*****

The Birthday Celebration "50" Milestone....

I want to thank everyone for their help with the ideas --- We are going with the Basketball Theme....

So I want to begin first and say the invites of course are not ready to go out... They will be by the weekend... I guess I was really waiting until I had a theme, however, the invites do not match the theme.... I guess I should had waited before I had purchasing them... but being an event planner when we see good opportunities to purchase our supplies when they are on sale we do... and of course I had nothing "macho man" looking but we are going with what we have....

Some now looking for a place to host the event... Well I had already found a reasonable place. Now we are going to be responsible for our decorating of the facility and we can bring in our own caterer.. The thing about using some places you have to use their on site caterers now some people feel this is best because they don't have to worry about looking for outside helpers.

We have to provide our own alcohol as well as a bartender (we will be interviewing for the bartenders) if you have anyone in mind in the Charlotte area please have them email me at : wedsaturbest@yahoo.com.

We are expecting about 75 guest mostly from out of state most of the guys use to be on his basketball team (so of course I am going to try and get a couple of basketballs and let them go to the gym and play a game).. of course my daughter said I need to get them some chairs so they can watch the younger boys play the game...l.o.l.

Oohs the birthday boy is coming I will follow up later.....