Connect For Events

Wedding Centerpieces - way too many options!

2011-03-07T22:32:00.000-05:00

A close friend is getting married shortly and I have been tasked to think about some center piece options. We are looking for options that are not through the roof budget-wise but that will still add a little something to a beautiful room in Vermont. I'm not gonna' lie, it is overwhelming as there are so many different directions you can go in. Here are some of the photos I added to my inspiration board to get started. There will be more to follow along with an update on selections!

Holiday decorating class at Pottery Barn for you & your kids!

2010-11-01T05:00:00.000-04:00

I love the holiday season, it brings back so many great memories from growing up. I grew up in an old farmhouse that was perfect for Christmas. We always had two trees - one in the kitchen with the kids ornaments and one in the living room with the nicer ones, and it was always matching. I know I have written before about the year my parents had a big holiday party for my Dad's company. My mom decided to put red roses on the tree so each flower had to be put in a little vial which we had to fill with water. Talk about time intensive, but the house looked amazing. And I love that a few women were whispering behind her back "oh I am sure she just paid someone to do this" - no way ladies, my mom is a holiday rock-star!

We have Thanksgiving and the December holidays to look forward to, and decorate for. Pottery Barn is here to help, they are hosting holiday decorating classes for you & your kids on Saturday, November. Check out their website for a location near you!

For the Love of Literacy Gala - Friday, November 5th in Boston

2010-10-31T18:28:00.000-04:00

Last year I attended the Room to Read fundraiser to support a friend who was on the committee. After hearing John Wood speak, I was hooked on the organization. This group is truly making a difference for children around the world. This Friday is the "For the Love of Literacy Gala" in Boston and I hope to see you all there. Supposedly they have the band from Chelsea Clinton's rehearsal dinner and from what I hear, they are a lot of fun so be sure to wear your dancing shoes. Individual tickets are $75 or $250 for VIP.

http://www.roomtoread .org/Document.Doc?id=292

It's a Dog's World

2010-10-20T05:00:00.001-04:00

I grew up with two labs, chocolate & yellow; they were an important part of our family. I can't wait to get a lab one day but right now I just don't have enough time. I might want to hurry up though because apparently us non-dog owners are missing out on quite the social scene. Recently my friend's Heather & Tommy invited us in to get a glimpse of the dog world, we were invited to Lily's second birthday party. I did not know what to expect so you can only imagine how surprised I was to walk in to a bar setup, a full table of food and even dog and human party favors. Dogs were welcome, of course. It was a fun night and I am just hoping I get invited back again next year!

Me with Lily, the birthday girl!

Party favors

The proud parents

One of the four-legged party goers with a birthday hat!

Fall Flowers to Set the Scene

2010-10-19T05:00:00.002-04:00

I love walking into any Four Season's because their hotel lobby's always have the most beautiful flowers. I am enjoying the fall colors right now and had to share this great "Glory of Fall" arrangement from Winston's flowers, if only I had $300 to spend on flowers!

A Beautiful Wedding on the Cape!

2010-10-17T19:05:00.001-04:00

The final wedding I went to this summer was an amazing one, my friends Lyssa & Joe were married on the Cape. It was a special wedding because I was out with Lyssa the night they met in Boston.

The festivities began on Friday night with a rehearsal dinner at the Hyannis Yacht Club. Sailing is important to Joe (and now Lyssa too!) so the the setting was perfect - a view of the water and nautical flags hanging above. The dinner was very New England with clam chowder to start, yum!!!

The reception took place at Oyster Harbors Club, which is incredible. When you are standing in the lobby you can look one way and see the golf course and the other to see the water. Cocktail hour was outside and the bride and groom arrived in style, by boat. They were glowing the entire night and Lyssa looked absolutely stunning in her dress.

One of my favorite details were the name cards, the starfish. But rather than just laying them out on the table, Lyssa's Dad made wooden boxes which they filled with sand. It was such a nice touch, it's all about those little details folks! And each table had a name that meant something to Lyssa & Joe, I was thrilled to be seated at the Stowe table!

Here are some more pictures from the wedding, enjoy!

The wedding cake

The starfish in the sandboxes

Group shot with the bride & groom

Fort Point Open Studios this Weekend!

2010-10-15T19:15:00.001-04:00

If you are in town this weekend, go to Fort Point to check out the work from over 150 artists! Please go swing by to see Filiz Emma Soyak, one of my classmates from UVM, she will be at 15 Channel Center Street on the 6th floor.

I am hoping to make it over on Sunday, but I am off to Newport to run a half marathon that I have not trained nearly enough for! Ugh:(

Have a great weekend everyone!

Some Halloween Savings!

2010-10-15T19:05:00.000-04:00

Today's dedicated DailyCandy email including coupons for iParty, so if you need a costume or decorations, print these out! In this economy, we'll take any savings, right? Go to this link and print them out, they are good until October 31st.

http://www.iparty.com/coupon

Make Home Projects Great Contest - Martha Stewart

2010-10-12T05:00:00.000-04:00

Simply upload a photo of any home project that "you made great" and your entry could appear in an upcoming issue of Martha Stewart Living. Hmmm....I need to think of something to submit!

Here are some of the entries that are posted to date. To note, I had to do a double take of the starfish table cards because my friends had something very similar at their wedding (posting that soon, theirs were better!).

Enter at marthastewart.com/microsoft for contest information & rules. Enter by November 3rd.

UNICEF FEED Trick-or-Treat Bag

2010-10-11T20:51:00.002-04:00

Remember trick-or-treating when you were little and raising money for UNICEF with the little orange, cardboard box? Now you can continue to support UNICEF and help feed kids around the world by purchasing a FEED Trick-or-Treat bag for $13.20 through an exclusive partnership with HSN . If you know of any kids heading out on the 31st, I would urge you to buy them one. And let them know that bag is providing one child with nutrients for an entire year, pretty amazing!

Baby Shower in Boston

2010-10-10T21:59:00.000-04:00

When you are thirty one you are very busy between friends getting married and friends having babies. This summer consisted of six weddings, one engagement party, two bridal showers and one baby shower. I have to keep a gift list because I am so nervous I am going to forget to send someone a present.

Three of us hosted a baby shower for our friend Sarah in September at the South End Buttery. There were thirteen of us so a very manageable group and we wanted to go out somewhere cute and fun. The Buttery has an adorable downstairs area and we arranged it so we would go at 2pm and would not have to pay a room fee. Otherwise, most places will try to add on another few hundred dollars but you should always be able to find a place that will work around that.

Below is a download of everything we ordered in case you have happen to be planning a shower too!

INVITATIONS: TinyPrints is a great resource, below is the invite we chose.

FOOD: We ordered a few bread baskets so everyone had something to snack on as they selected their meal from the menu and we also had pitchers of bloody mary's and mimosa's. I am a firm believer that there should be cocktails at any party (even your kid's birthday party!). For dessert we ordered a tray of cupcakes (the Buttery makes really delicious ones!).

FAVORS: We ordered two things: 1) nest egg soaps from Beau-Coup Favors, which we took out of the boxes and placed along the center of the table. 2) Cookies from Starlight Creative in Lynn, MA. We chose zoo animals to match our invitation. We picked up the cookies but they will ship to you as well.

FLOWERS: I bought some white hydrangeas and brought two of my own vases with me (I had purchased these pitchers for another party at Pier 1). Very simple but added a nice touch to the table.

Other pictures...

The Boston Lobster Party - Next Saturday!

2010-10-06T12:00:00.000-04:00

Let's celebrate Lobster, a New England tradition, on Saturday, October 16th in the South End of Boston. Enjoy food from Union, Gaslight, Rocca, South End Buttery, and many other great restaurants plus 15 local brews (including Cisco!). $35 or $46 tickets are still available and proceeds go to three organizations: Community Servings, Share our Strength and Lovin' Spoonfuls.

The Boston Lobster Party

Saturday, October 16th

540 Harrison Avenue, South End

2-4:30pm

http://bostonlobsterparty.eventbrite.com/

Guys are Tough to Shop For!

2010-10-06T05:00:00.000-04:00

Every time I need to think up a gift for a guy, I struggle. Now if I were shopping for my mom or sister-in-law I could come up with a zillion different ideas. I saw Cuffhim.com on UrbanDaddy today, they make custom cufflinks based on a man's signature. Clever, right? These would be great for groomsmen gifts or a little something to help someone celebrate a special day. I would avoid those diamond ones though, a bit over the top for my taste.

LuLu Powers Food to Flowers On Sale on OneKingsLane

2010-10-05T22:17:00.000-04:00

From one of the most well-known caterers in LA comes a book to arm us with over 100 menu ideas and lots of party planning tips. Yes, us regular people can throw kick ass parties too! I have been eying this book and it is now on sale on onekingslane.com for just $24, but the sale won't last long, so buy now...I am! If you are not yet a member of onekingslane, click here to join. This is also a great hostess gift or housewarming present.

Halloween Decorations, Invitations & More from Martha

2010-10-04T22:49:00.001-04:00

Martha Stewart is an empire, she is everywhere. She has her own line at Michael's crafts and I found some fun, Halloween finds. Seeing these has made me want to have a Halloween party. My mom always said you should pick one holiday to host a party for and stick with it each year to build upon your decorations. I have two traditions so far, Christmakkuh (thanks to the OC of course) and I have hosted an Eagles football party for five years, bringing Philly traditions to Boston. I now see a Halloween party in my future!

Be sure to check out the Michael's website because there is so much more to see!

I love these beverage labels so much,

I am getting them anyway.

I am going to add these to the wine bottles since it is a tradition to hang in the garden, sipping wine as we hand out candy.

Treat boxes & they come with the ribbon

Test tube favor kit - you can use these for non-Halloween parties too

Hanging Skeleton

Mice silhouettes

Silhouette bats with gemstone eyes

Window witch cling

Trick or treat garland

Invitation in a bottle

Mad scientist invitations

Vampire invitations

Wedding Series - a Wedding on the Cape

2010-10-04T20:44:00.000-04:00

For fourth of July weekend this year a group of us rented a great house in Chatham so we could all be on-hand to celebrate Tim & Mandy's wedding. They were married at Ocean Edge in Brewster. Unfortunately I do not have a ton of pictures (even after scouring facebook!) but I want to show you how beautiful this place was, so I grabbed a few shots from their website.

The ceremony took place in a garden just down the street and then we moved to the resort for an incredible cocktail hour overlooking the ocean. We continued down the hill to a semi-permanent tent where we proceeded to dance the night away! And post wedding, there was a bar on-site so the party could keep going.

Jared & Sarah in this funky lounge chair on the patio

Cocktail hour!

A picture of the resort which dates back to the early 1900's

The ballroom

A concert on a yacht!

2010-10-04T05:00:00.000-04:00

Most of you have probably heard of Gilt Groupe by now, it is pretty awesome. And now they have launched Gilt City, bringing you great local deals. Right now you can purchase tickets ($80) for the Travie McCoy concert, the artist behind "Billionaire," which will take place on October 18th. What's unique is that the concert is on a yacht! For three hours, cruise around, enjoy drinks & apps and some great music.

To join Gilt City click on this link and keep an eye out for future deals:

http://www.giltcity.com/invite/ewilson41

Save the Date - Friday, November 5th - Room to Read Fundraiser

2010-10-03T19:33:00.000-04:00

My friend Kate has been involved with Room to Read for over a year now and after attending last year's event and listening to John Wood speak, I am hooked as well. I am looking forward to this year's event, so please be sure to mark Friday, November 5th off on your calendar and I will see you there!

For the Love of Literacy Gala

10 Years - 10,000 Libraries - 1,000 Schools - 10,000 Girls Educated

Please join the Boston Chapter and John Wood, founder and board chair of Room to Read, to celebrate the organization's 10th anniversary year. In its first decade, Room to Read has impacted the lives of more than four million children in Asia and Africa. Help us achieve our goal of reaching 10 million children by 2015. The event will be co-hosted by NECN's Billy Costa and Jenny Johnson and will include cocktails, hors d'oeuvres, and live and silent auctions.

Friday, November 5, 2010
6:00 PM VIP Reception hosted by John Wood
Doors open for General Admission at 7:00 PM
Seaport Hotel - 1 Seaport Lane, Boston
Cocktail attire suggested

Friday, November 05, 2010

Tickets are $75 or $250 for VIP, to purchase click here.

Learn to 'Entertain with Style' at Your Local Pottery Barn Store

2010-09-28T21:52:00.000-04:00

My friend Kate tipped me off to these great events at Pottery Barn locations around the country. There are a few about decorating your home, which I know I would love as well, but I am very interested in the event "Entertaining with Style" which will take place on October 14th and November 14th at 10am. How perfect as we are about to enter the holiday season.

Wedding Series - Kennebunkport, Maine

2010-09-26T05:00:00.001-04:00

This is my third wedding post and after re-visiting photos from each wedding I feel so incredibly lucky to have great friends and to have gone to so many fantastic places this year. I have a soft spot for this one as well since I was born in Maine and I think it is a gorgeous place.

Alex and Ted were married in Kennebunkport in June 2010, it was a weekend of fun-filled festivities and there were a ton of young people at the wedding, even single ones which is rare these days! A lot of us stayed at the Colony Hotel which was convenient to everything. That is definitely something to keep in mind if you have a lot of guests in town, make it easy for them.

Since this was a destination wedding, everyone was included in the rehearsal dinner on Friday night at the Kennebunk River Club Casino. The tables were decked out in checkered table clothes all made by the bride's mom!. They served a delicious barbecue dinner and for dessert, a tray of large whoopie pies, which I can't believe I didn't get a picture of these because they were great. I stole a tip from the passed hors d'oeuvres that night too, they passed around traditional mini lobster rolls and just sliced New England hot dog rolls. That's we we then did for Lyssa & Joe's engagement party.

On Saturday, Alex and Ted were married at St. Ann's Episcopal Church which is beautiful. We then all went on over to the Kennebunk River Club Boathouse, an ideal spot for a wedding reception. Imagine canoes hanging from the ceiling, wood beams and an amazing deck on the water for cocktail hour. It was a weekend to remember!

The Colony Hotel, awesome pool overlooking the ocean (which you can't see here):

Kennebunk River Club Casino, location of the rehearsal dinner:

St. Ann's Episcopal Church:

The bride & groom walking into the reception:

Cocktails out back on the water:

I love this...

The room only required simple decorations and the lighting was perfect.

Cupcake tower

Free Boston Pops Concert Tomorrow on Boston Common

2010-09-25T12:30:00.001-04:00

As part of the 125th anniversary celebration of the Boston Pops, Keith Lockhart and the Pops will be performing on Boston Common tomorrow at 3pm FOR FREE! The concert will feature The Dream Live On: A Portrait of the Kennedy Brothers.

Three Cheers for MDA - Thursday, September 30th in Boston

2010-09-25T05:00:00.000-04:00

Head out on Thursday, September 30th to raise money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. The event will take place at Smith & Wollensky's so you know the food will be good. There will also be some great auction items and for only $50, this is a deal so bid high when you go!

Unique Event Planner/Wedding Decorator - Ashley Meaders

2010-09-23T05:00:00.000-04:00

I came across Ashley Meaders on DailyCandy and had to check out her website. Instantly I noticed that most of her photographs were taken by Our Labor of Love which are the same photographers from my friend Aimee's wedding. Ashley can perform a range of services for your event from the creation of one to two items and to planning the whole darn thing. She also has an etsy shop but there isn't too much posted right now. She is based in Atlanta, just like my favorite new photographers!

Some examples of Ashley's work from her website, and the majority of these shots are taken by Labor of Love Photography.

Some fabulous Halloween Finds, order now!

2010-09-22T05:00:00.002-04:00

Halloween is a fantastic holiday for kids and adults. I love dressing up and heading out on the town but I also look forward to decorating my garden, buying a whole lot 'o candy and handing out candy on my stoop. It is somewhat of a South End tradition for everyone to hang outside, enjoy wine and spoil the trick or treaters. Great neighborhood bonding! But if you are having a party, start planning now! I found some cool stuff on ZGallerie.com that I definitely thought was worth sharing. I will continue keep my eye out for other fun Halloween finds.

Black crystal flower stems & Frankenstein cocktail napkins

Glitter skulls, these would be so fun to decorate with.

Glittered spiders and a cool hanging bat groom.

Hanging skeletons and bone chilling ice cube trays.

Black wall sconce and little skull candles.

West Elm Boston - Handmade Art Event - October 14th

2010-09-21T05:00:00.001-04:00

I love West Elm. I love Etsy. And I certainly always love a good, unique find for my home. These are all of the reasons I am attending this cool event at West Elm on October 14th between 6-9pm. Be sure to RSVP. And did I mention, drinks too?

Wedding Series - A North Shore Wedding

2010-09-19T10:36:00.001-04:00

This past June, one of my very close friends was married on her grandmother's property in Essex, Massachusetts. I was honored to be a bridesmaid and I am even more excited to share photos of this gorgeous day. Aimee has a creative flair like no other and she worked on all of the details without the help of a wedding planner. Weddings at a home are very special but can also require more planning and more work but Aimee did an incredible job and wait until you see the tent, it will knock your socks off! People are still talking about it.

Last week's post from Newport Life Magazine inspired me to get some more information from Aimee about vendors, etc. so this can really be a useful tool for others. Below you will find some photos taken by friends and then I need to showcase shots from Mike and Aimee's photographer, the husband and wife duo from Our Labor of Love Photography. At first I thought they were crazy to fly them in from Atlanta, but now that I have seen the photos, I can see why. These are some of the greatest wedding photos I have seen, they add a little artistic touch to each shot.

Enjoy these photos from Mike & Aimee's wedding!

The location of the wedding on the property was extra special since Mike & Aimee will be breaking ground on a new home there.

Photographs from Labor of Love:

Aimee looked stunning in her Valentino dress.

Name cards were hanging when you walked into the tent, very simple but this added a touch of country charm. Aimee had the cards professionally written and then we tied the names and table numbers together with twine.

I loved that the flowers were simple yet beautiful. Aimee used hundreds of vases that varied in shape and size combined with small candles.

There were hundreds (literally!) of candles hanging from the tent, which was amazing as the night went on. To note, these were fake candles to avoid any potential disasters. You could not tell.

They used long, rectangular tables.

There were two tents, one for cocktails (on the left) which also served as a late night lounge and the main tent to the right. You can see how stunning the tents were and the lights made all the difference at night.

Event details:

Wedding Dress: By Valentino, purchased at L'Elite on Newbury Street in Boston.

Bridesmaid Dresses: Designers varied, we were all asked to buy long dresses in shades of gray. Also bought at L'Elite.

Tent Company: Sperry Tents

Catering Company: TSH Catering, Tim Hopkins

Cake: Traditional white cake with Butter Cream frosting from Mirabella's Bakery Tewksbury, MA

Rentals: Chairs, tables, china, benches, etc. came from Be Our Guest in Boston

Hair & Makeup: Makeup, Lauren Genarossio from Sarra Studios, Boston. Hair: Bliss Salon in Marblehead

Photographer: Husband and Wife team, Whitney and Jesse Chamberlin - Our Labor Of Love Photography

Lighting Company: Boston Uplights

Advise from Aimee: "I think just to remember that it's your (couple's) wedding, not your parents, your planner, your caterer... etc. (you get the drift)- So make your decisions based on that. Mike and I wanted clean, modern, natural and formal. I think we accomplished that! It was so fun! "

Win $500 to Towne Stove & Spirits in Boston

2010-09-16T21:08:00.002-04:00

Visit Bloomspot to win a $500 food & bar tab to Towne, a new restaurant to the Boston scene. While I was not super impressed during my one and only visit I really want to give this place another try and check out that great looking dining room. I am also attempting to have a private event there, so I will be sure to let you know how that works out.

Enter before October 14th, good luck!

http://www.bloomspot.com/boston/towne-stove-and-spirits/

Two private rooms to consider

2010-09-13T21:48:00.000-04:00

I recently went to Noche for the first time, the restaurant that took over the old Icarus location in the South End. I am excited to see new restaurants opening up in the neighborhood. We went during restaurant week and it was quite amusing because the entire crowd was women (note to men) which I am sure my date was secretly super excited about! I couldn't help notice the great private room as we were led to our table, another fantastic option for your next dinner party to celebrate something special. The room holds 12 and includes a separate sound system so you can listen to your favorite tunes, and a TV in case you have a video to roll.

If you like sushi, I was really surprised by the private room at Haru when we went for my friend Lyssa's "bachelorette" dinner. With doors to shut off the room, I was able to introduce the ladies to Saki bombs which are sure to get any party started. In all seriousness, it was a great space and I would highly recommend dinner there. It is also an easy walk from the Back Bay or South End.

Room at Noche:

Room at Haru:

Girls night out at Haru:

A Newport Wedding - The Wedding Series

2010-09-11T10:27:00.000-04:00

I went to six weddings this Spring/Summer and I plan on featuring one per week to help you come up with ideas for your own events. I am going in chronological order, starting with a special day in Newport, Rhode Island.

My close friend Genevieve and her husband were married this past April and their wedding was featured in the most recent issue of Newport Life Magazine, so be sure to grab a copy! The weekend started out with dinner at Perro Salado on Friday night, just a short walk from the Viking Hotel. A few pitchers of margs and sangria are always a good way to get the party started. On Saturday they were married at one of the most beautiful churches I have been to and the reception followed at the White Horse Tavern. The after party was at Sky Bar and Genevieve so slyly brought a Philadelphia tradition to town - the oh so famous hats from the Charity Ball, customized for their special day. Personal touches like that are always the most memorable. It was an intimate weekend of celebrations and it does not surprise me in the least that they are featured in Newport Life Magazine.

Photos and spread from Newport Life Magazine.

Saturday, September 25th - Boston Esplanade Centennial Gala

2010-09-07T21:10:00.000-04:00

Join in on the centennial celebration of the Charles River Esplanade on Saturday, September 25th. Enjoy dinner, cocktails and dancing. This is also a great reason to get dressed up now that everyone is starting to trickle back into town. $125 for members and $150 for non-members. The Esplanade is such a special place in Boston, you will be supporting an organization to keep it looking beautiful.

Wedding Paper Divas

2010-08-26T08:00:00.002-04:00

Wedding Paper Divas has been a great resource over the past few months. I recently hosted an engagement party and this is where I ordered the invites from, we loved them so much we just ordered invites for a baby shower. They have so many options and for than just weddings. I received a great email from them today with some fall inspiration that I thought I would share. I have also included a few additional items from invitations, save the dates and more from their site. My favorite though are their inspiration boards!

And the inspiration boards...

Special shopping event at Cynthia Rowley this Thursday with Elements of Style

2010-08-25T08:00:00.000-04:00

I wish I could go!!! I am obsessed with the elements of style blog and Cynthia Rowley isn't so bad either!

The cutest decorations, invites & more from Mary Had a Little Party

2010-08-23T20:16:00.002-04:00

This has been an exciting year for my friends and we now have a lot of baby showers, engagement parties and more to plan. Of course I love every minute of it! While looking for cupcake toppers for Sarah's baby shower, I came across Mary Had a Little Party on etsy and this online store is adorable! They have the cutest custom invitations, cupcake toppers, signs, party hats and much more. Here is just a sampling of their offerings, enjoy!

An alternative to the traditional bachelorette party

2010-08-15T09:53:00.000-04:00

I am 31 and already my friends and I are over the traditional bachelorette parties. I have hosted two parties at my parent's house in Florida. Granted both included a night out on the town but also mixed in dinners at home and a private catamaran sail for one. Let's face it, we are not 23 anymore!

My sister in law sent me this link and I thought I would share (especially since I have abandoned my blog over the past few months (thanks to my way to busy real job!)). The New York Times ran an article about bachelorette cooking parties and I think this is a great option, either going to a restaurant or planning at a home. It is something different and would work well for a mixed age group, plus you can drink a lot of wine while you mix together those ingredients!

Wine tasting at Brix this Thursday to Support Room to Read!

2010-07-19T20:58:00.000-04:00

Swing by Brix in the South End of Boston this Thursday for a casual fundraiser to support Room to Read. Room to read partners with local organizations in developing countries to build libraries, schools and even publish children's books in their native languages.

As if it is not enough that this is for a great cause, if you have not been to Brix, it is a wonderful wine store with a great selection.

Wine tasting at Fenway Park - Thursday, May 13th

2010-04-25T19:48:00.000-04:00

The inaugural wine tasting event at Fenway Park to support the Foundation Fighting Blindness (FFB) is right around the corner! Space is limited so buy your tickets now! Enjoy a wonderful array of wines, hors d' oeuvres, and a silent auction at one of the most famous ballparks! And the silent auction is one you will not want to miss!

This cause is one that is near and dear to my heart. My close friend Abby was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) after we graduated from college. Abby will continue to lose her sight (her mother & brother also have this disease) as she gets older, her vision will gradually close in. FFB raises money to fund research to find cures for retinal-related diseases and with so many wonderful human trials over the past year, I am confident if we keep up this work, Abby will be able to keep her vision.

Thursday, May 13th

6:30-9:30pm

Fenway Park

Boston

Tickets are $125 and $100 for under 30, to purchase tickets or sweepstakes entries, please visit:
www.FightBlindness.org/BostonWineTasting

'Tis the season, the charity season

2010-03-19T07:00:00.000-04:00

The charity events are really picking up now that the warm weather has arrived! Of course I hope everyone is saving Thursday, May 13th for our inaugural wine tasting event at Fenway Park to support the Foundation Fighting Blindness AND Saturday, May 15th for an event held by the United Way Emerging Leader's which will take place at the Boston Children's Museum.

I received an event request on facebook for another great event that will take place at Fenway Park on Friday, April 9th. This is the 4th Annual Toast to benefit Boston Prep. The evening includes an all-star silent auction, live music, dinner, an open bar, and a toast to the school. Tickets are $100 in advance, $125 at the door. To purchase tickets: http://www.bostonprep.org. Baseball Formal: Black Tie optional, Ball Cap / Red Socks encouraged.

With all of these upcoming events and weddings, I need to do some dress shopping!

An alternative to the photo booth

2010-03-15T22:35:00.000-04:00

It has been awhile since I have blogged, life has gotten crazy yet again. Coming up on May 15th is the United Way Emerging Leader's gala that I am involved with (save the date!) and this year, instead of having a photo booth we are going to have Flip Books. The company is called Flip Chix and they come to your event, video tape your guests for 7 seconds and they magically turn it into a custom flip book memento. I think this is so clever and a great idea for wedding favors, special birthday party or like us, a charity event!

Slofting to Save and to Stop - this Thursday in Boston

2010-03-09T07:18:00.000-05:00

Laurie and Katie are raising money for two great organizations: SOAR (Speak Out About Rape) and Boston Children's Hospital. One is jumping out of a plane and the other running a marathon. Laurie is a good friend who is absolutely terrified of heights - when we went zip-lining in Costa Rica, there were a lot of tears and hugging of trees. Laurie went through a horrific rape experience that most of us didn't even know about until recently. She has chosen to skydive to raise money for this cause, which is pretty amazing because it is probably one of her worst fears.

Come out this Thursday to the Sail Loft to support both organizations. There is no charge at the door but donations are appreciated and there will be a silent auction. You can find the event on facebook for more information.

Sail Loft
80 Atlantic Avenue
7pm - midnight

Mardi Gras Madness - tonight!

2010-03-05T08:12:00.001-05:00

16th Annual Mardi Gras Madness

To benefit the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation

Friday, March 5th 2010

7 pm – midnight

Royal Sonesta Hotel

40 Edwin Land Boulevard

Cambridge, MA

$110 at the door

Food, fun, dancing

Music by Live Radio and DJ Jim Martin

Mask and Beads provided for all

Rent your own ski mountain

2010-03-01T21:19:00.001-05:00

I think I am getting sad that ski season is coming to an end for 2010, just three more winter weekends in VT for me. This might be one of the reasons I am so excited about this rental - your own private ski mountain for a day! The cost...$2500. It's Turner Mountain located in Libby, Montana. There's one lift but supposedly a ton of great skiing. This is now a must on my list of to do's.

So what to do with your own mountain? I think kegs are a must and I am thinking a lot of rediculous competitions, including the best ski suit (preferably from the '70's or the '80's) and a shindig at the lodge to end the day with an awards ceremony of course. Someone, please rent this!

For the movie lover

2010-02-24T19:42:00.000-05:00

The Oscars are quickly approaching and I found these unique invitations on Shindigz.com . Perfect for inviting your friends over to watch the celebs walk that red carpet or for a party for any movie lover. The film canister is definitely my favorite.

A basketball birthday

2010-02-21T21:07:00.000-05:00

I have been asking friends and family to take pictures at events/parties they attend so we can all get some fun ideas. This past weekend, my parents were at a surprise 60th birthday party for "Dr.J". I figured there would have to be something noteworthy to share from this shindig which took place in Atlantic City, NJ.

The invitation opened like a book and was quite large.

It was impressive and definitely set the tone for the weekend of festivities.

Table setting

The dessert tying in his years playing basketball.

When you are celebrating a milestone for someone, it is always nice to add those personal touches to make it special.

You can't actually play this slot machine...it's the cake!

A fantastic event coming up in Miami

2010-02-16T21:52:00.001-05:00

For those of you living in or visiting Miami, don't miss out on a fantastic fundraiser at the Gansevoort rooftop lounge in South Beach! The event will raise money for the Melanie Finley Ovarian Cancer Foundation (MFOCF). Melanie is a very close friend from growing up who was diagnosed with Ovarian cancer at the age of 27. She is now in remission and building this foundation to create awareness and also raising money to financially aid young women who are also fighting this battle. As we all know, cancer treatments are incredibly expensive.

Even if you are not in Miami (like me) you can support by purchasing a $25 raffle ticket. You will have the chance to win:

Two Roundtrip Spirit Airlines tickets & 3 night all-inclusive accommodations for two in Cancun Mexico
Four Night Cruise on Royal Caribbean for Two Adults
Original acrylic on canvas Art Work from Katerina Wagner

A PA florist for your dream day

2010-02-15T09:40:00.001-05:00

If you are getting married or having a party in the Philadelphia area, you are lucky because you can call on the Rhoads Garden for gorgeous flowers to make your day stand out for you and your guests. I need to dig up some pictures from my brother & Meredith's wedding to share one of these days, it was beautiful! The Rhoads are close family friends but everyone uses them because their work is stunning. Here is just a sampling....

Bring your celebration to an island...a private island

2010-02-13T10:00:00.002-05:00

I am writing from Florida where it should be warm and sunny, right? Wrong, I woke up to strong winds pounding against the doors to my bedroom. What is going on this winter? At least I have some blogging time over coffee.

On my flight down here, I was inspired to research some party destinations when reading through Coastal Living and seeing Jennifer Anniston's 41st Birthday celebration in US Weekly. Although Jennifer Anniston didn't rent a private island, she did rent a kick ass house and brought her closest friends along for what sounded like a pretty incredibly multiple day celebration. I am focusing on private islands, because how cool would it be to invite your friends & family to your own island for a special occastion?

Some of these private islands are a bit over the top pricewise but there are also some islands that are more realistic. I think these are most ideal for a special family celebration such as a 40th wedding anniversary or a wedding BUT why not go just for fun? Some have minimum stays, etc but in this economy I think there is room for negotiation!

Wolf Island, British Columbia

2 week minimum stay

5 bedrooms

$8500/week

Little Whale Cay, Bahamas

93 acres, 3 home

Staff of 13 (including personal chef)

take a boat or fly to the island using the private airstrip

12 people

5 minimum night stay

$9500/night

Hummingbird Island, Alaska

5 acre, rustic fishing resort

$5245/week

Perrot's Island, Bermuda

$28,000/week

Clapboard Island, Maine

9 bedrooms

5 swimming beaches

Casco Bay

$25,000/week

So this one is over the top - Necker Island, British Virgin Islands

Owned by Sir Richard Branson

74 acres

$344,000/week - (this is not a mistake)

Getting married? Enter to wine a $100,000 wedding courtesy of Crate & Barrel and Daily Candy

2010-02-11T07:36:00.000-05:00

You could win a $100,000 wedding - oh how happy your parents will be! The contest is being run by Crate & Barrel and DailyCandy through March 31st.

What you need to do: 1) Upload a photo of you & your fiance, 2) Tell them your love story in 100 words or less, 3) Share important details of your wedding in 100 words or less, 4) Describe your everyday dream day in 100 words or less.

Have a lot of friends? The 50 most voted on couples will make it into the finals - if nothing else, you could be the most voted on couple and get a $500 gift certificate to Crate. Do it!

Enter now! Let me know if you do so I can vote for you, enter now!

City people, don't let the snowstorm hold you back!

2010-02-10T18:49:00.000-05:00

Talk about smart marketing - kudos to you Beehive. As you know, we have all been awaiting the "treacherous" winter storm which has been a little slow to arrive, but I won't complain about an afternoon working in front of the fireplace. In my inbox was this beautiful email from the Beehive (South End, Boston) - a nice reminder to all of us in the neighborhood how fun it can be to go out in a snowstorm when all you have to do is walk down the street. Kind of romantic too! So get out of your house, and head on over for a cocktail!

Winter Warmer at Rocca, Boston - Tues, Feb 23rd

2010-02-09T23:12:00.000-05:00

Although cold, it is time to be social and what better spot than Rocca in the South End? On Tuesday, February 23rd please join the United Way Emerging Leaders for our annual winter warmer event. TIckets are $20 (a drop in the bucket!) and proceeds will go directly to United Way's Family Financial Stability Fund, which pools and distributes donations to families in need. We will raise money to help local families in need and you will also have the opportunity to mingle and network so don't miss out!

Cash bar, includes passed hors d'oeuvres

Rocca, South End
5:30-8pm
$20/person

Welcome your guests with a picture on the building

2010-02-08T20:51:00.000-05:00

It has been awhile but I am back, with an interesting photo.

A friend was looking at her friend's wedding photos on facebook and we came across this shot - the bride & groom more than life-size on the building, what a way to welcome your guests. I can only imagine that this reception must have been a ton of fun. The wedding was held at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, but this idea could be used anywhere.

Valentine's treats

2010-02-02T21:42:00.007-05:00

The economy has been tough this past year, but I don't have to tell you that. So given the times, why not send a Valentine's Day present one can eat? I think this is oh so practical. Thanks to the Internet, you can find so many options but here are a few of my favorite in a variety of price ranges. Make someone feel special, who doesn't like a tasty treat?

Hand-dipped berries from red envelope.

Surprise someone with delicious cupcakes from Sprinkles, be sure to order by Feb 5th (and send me some too!)

I have always loved the Popcorn Factory, they always have good snacks in fun containers suitable for any occasion.

This popcorn heart decorating kit is a great kids activity

How about these personalized frog prince cookies from William-Sonoma? Cute, but you better really like the person you are sending these to because they are $26 for three!

All about the lighting

2010-01-31T10:41:00.012-05:00

Lighting can truly transform a space - indoors & out. Below are some beautiful pictures (and great ideas) from Project Wedding. You can also use candles as an inexpensive way to dress up your space, I have posted some candle holders further down that I found online, and some are cheap! If you are interested in chandeliers, try overstock.com - the salon I go to in the South End just went through a transformation and the owner found this great black chandeliers for cheap on overstock.

A set of 100 tealights from Ikea for only $3.99.

Galej tealight holders from Ikea, Set of 4 for $1.49

Glimma Candle Holder from Ikea, Set of 6 for $1.99

DAMAST lantern for tea lights (can hang or put upright), $12 each - I would love these for my patio

Recycled Glass Fluted Jar, $6, from Pottery Barn

Set of 16 votive candle holders for $24, Potter Barn

Cylinder Hurricane Sleeves, From $34-$54 Pottery Barn

Arches lanterns from Pottery Barn, From $19-$69

Green Glass Hurricane Holders, On clearance at Pier 1 for $7.48 & $13.48

Clear Glass Hurricane, Also on clearance at Pier 1, $6.98 & $8.98

Oriental Trading Co, Cylinder Tealight Holders, Set of 3 for $9.99 - you can add flowers, water or whatever you want as additional decoration

Dress up that bottle of wine

2010-01-28T21:37:00.005-05:00

Invited to a party and want to spice up the typical bottle of wine you normally bring? Toast-its is here to save the day! Check out these cool wine labels to add to any bottle and sign the back. I don't think you want to cover up a pricey vino but this makes it even better to bring a cheaper bottle so you can add a dash of style.

Cake kick

2010-01-26T20:41:00.008-05:00

This is going to be a cake week! After my Sunday evening posting, my sister-in-law sent me a link to some fantastic cakes from the Night Kitchen Bakery in Philly. My nephew turns one in March so the preparations have begun, and it is going to be an awesome first birthday party! Cooper's partay has a theme but I won't dare give it away - so here are some of the other cakes from the Night Kitchen that I thought were so much fun. (To note - I LOVE a good cake!)

A cake about you

2010-01-25T05:00:00.000-05:00

A friend had a 40th birthday party over the weekend and I just saw a picture of her cake on facebook and had to share. Who knew you can learn so much about someone via their cake? Need to find out who made this!

A wedding in St. Barth's

2010-01-24T14:23:00.008-05:00

Once in awhile I want to share pictures from unique events I have gone to and this wedding is worthy of sharing. Close family friends got married in St. Barth's last winter and it was an incredible weekend of festivities. For the actual wedding, guests were asked to wear shades of white while the bride looked stunning in a green dress!

La Plage

My friend Brad is the king of making the most fantastic rehearsal dinner videos, this one was a classic and was well received by the crowd.

Everyone taking in the movie at the rehearsal dinner.

The green dress!

Guests in shades of white

The reception was held at Eden Rock, we were just feet away from the water and as you can see below, the setting was wonderful and very much one of a kind