Seattle, WA is a city of different cultures. Aside from its great seafood and coffee, the city also has great locations for weddings. Couples have a wide selection of wedding locations to choose from a ferry wedding to a beautiful and intimate garden wedding.

Pike Place Market

Pike Place Market is not just a venue where people can get the best produce in the city. It can also be a great wedding location in Seattle, WA. Above the Market is a facility that can host a wedding reception for couples looking to be right in central downtown Seattle. The Top of the Market is a venue that also features great views of Elliot Bay from its oversized windows. The dance floor can be set to overlook the Puget Sound while cocktails can be held at the courtyard.

The Atrium can accommodate 90 seated guests and 100 guests for a reception style arrangement while the Elliot Bay Room is more intimate with a capacity of 50 guests. The Facility, on the other hand, is able to accommodate 140 seated guests and 160 guests for a reception style set-up.

The Space Needle

Aside from being a popular landmark and tourist destination, the Space Needle is also a great location for a wedding in Seattle, Washington. It provides magnificent 360 degree views of the city and with its revolving restaurant it provides a unique experience for any wedding party. The Space Needle has 2 private rooms, located on the SkyLine level, where a wedding can take place and complimentary passes to the observation deck is often included in their wedding packages.

The SkyLine has 3 function rooms named after the views it features – Puget Sound Room, Lake Union Room and the Seattle Room. Each of the rooms provides a different view that shows the different side of the city. The entire function area can accommodate up to 360 guests for a reception and 300 guests for a banquet style set-up.

The Canal

Couples wanting the feel of being in Venice but do not have the time nor the budget, can always check out the Canal in Seattle, WA for their wedding venue. The Canal offers couples with deck side view of the waterway. It is a great setting for a romantic wedding that is within walking distance to some of the best attractions in Seattle, WA. The Canal features several function areas including a patio and a private dining area. The Canal is catered by Jewel Catering.

The Seattle Aquarium

For a unique and educational wedding location in Seattle, WA why not check out the Seattle Aquarium in Alaskan Way? Imagine exchanging vows in a 400,000 dome that features an array of fish and marine creatures living in Puget Sound. That, in itself, is something to look forward to! The reception is often held at another venue. However, this underwater wedding venue already provides a colorful and magnificent backdrop through the various fish and marine creatures that can be seen through the floor-to-ceiling glass aquariums surrounding the wedding venue.

Woodland Park Zoo

Another unique and interesting wedding location in Seattle, WA is the Woodland Park Zoo. The Zoo offers several locations within the area where couples can hold their wedding from an intimate indoor gathering to a lavish outdoor extravaganza.

The Rain Forest Food Pavilion is one location where couples can hold their wedding in Woodland Park Zoo. The main feature of the Pavilion is its large, wrap-around deck which is adorned by lush greenery. The Rain Forest Food Pavilion is an atrium-style structure that can accommodate up to 250 seated guests.

The Rose Garden is a suitable location for a romantic garden wedding. This wedding location in Seattle, WA features an extensive array of roses together with its lily pond and gazebo. This garden can accommodate up to 150 seated guests.

Couples looking for something a little bit more adventurous can have their wedding at the African Village in Woodland Park Zoo. This venue overlooks the African Savanna exhibit so guests can enjoy the food and get a glimpse of the zebras roaming around.

Wallace Falls Lodge

For something a little bit more rustic, the Wallace Falls Lodge is a great option. This log lodge is a great wedding venue for parties that may take place more than a day. With just 10 rooms, the Wallace Falls Lodge is an excellent choice for a quaint wedding.

Couples can choose to have their wedding outdoors with a beautiful back drop of 10 acres of lush greenery. The Wallace Falls Lodge is a great location in Seattle, WA for small weddings.

The Museum of Flight

Located south of downtown Seattle is the Museum of Flight which is another interesting option for an outdoor wedding. The main attraction of the wedding venue in this museum is the air planes that are on display. Couples can have their wedding right in the middle of all these wonderful aviation. What can be more unique than that?

The Museum of Flight often opens up some of their galleries as wedding venues in Seattle, WA. Aside from just using a space in the Museum of flight, the museum also allow some of their facilities to be part of a wedding package like the flight simulator.

Dar Rainier Chapter House

For a little bit of history and character, couples can check out the Dar Rainier Chapter House. This historical house can accommodate weddings of various sizes and arrangements from seat down to cocktail receptions.

The ballroom on the first floor can accommodate up to 250 guests while the main ballroom can accommodate up to 100 guests.

Stimson-Green Mansion

The Stimson-Green Mansion, situated between Seneca and University Streets, provides an elegant wedding venue in Seattle, WA. The function rooms are reminiscent of the old colonial houses with high ceilings and hardwood walls. The crown moldings, huge chandeliers and elegant rooms add up to the setting and decoration of any wedding.

The mansion features a large, elegant dining room where the wedding reception can be held, a deck, billiards room and an exquisite library filled with historic art.

Georgetown Ballroom

Couples who prefer something a little bit eclectic, unusual and urban can check out the Georgetown Ballroom. This former garage warehouse and Mission Theatre features exposed brickwork, high ceilings and great architectural details is great for an intimate, yet elegant, wedding party.

It features a huge courtyard for an outdoor cocktail while the indoor venue includes a mezzanine and stage. The place can accommodate 60 to 450 guests.

Phoenix, AZ is not just a city where you can go to have an outdoor vacation. With the numerous natural wonders and scenic views the city has to offer, Phoenix, AZ is home to some of the best wedding locations in the region.

5th Avenue and Madison Event Center

Couples looking for a historical site with ultra-modern facilities should check out the 5th Avenue and Madison Event Center. This wedding location in Phoenix, AZ provides over 12,000 square feet of indoor event space. It features the old feel of vintage Phoenix while providing modern facilities and equipment.

5th Avenue and Madison Event Center still retains the old exterior of the building but the interior is all about modern comfort. The interiors feature high ceiling with exposed beams. Since the entire space is like a blank canvas, couples can design and create a wide variety of arrangements according to their preferences.

http://www.aldeaweddings.com/index2.php

Situated in Northwest Valley, the Adea is a 7, 600square foot wedding location in Phoenix, AZ. 4,000 square foot of these entire venue are courtyards perfect for a huge and elegant outdoor wedding.

Bella Giardino

One of the most popular wedding locations in Phoenix, Arizona, Bella Giardino is situated below the desert foothills in the north valley. The entire venue is filled with scenic backdrops great for weddings including river stone walls, Mediterranean palm trees and Spanish wrought iron.

Bella Giardino has several locations to hold a wedding like the 4,300 square foot indoor plaza that can either be opened or closed during the wedding. It also features a beautiful walkway perfect for any bride to walk on.

Boojum Tree’s Hidden Garden is a great garden wedding location in Phoenix, AZ. This wedding venue features a multitude of tropical plants, water features and a Palm Forest making it a great destination for an outdoor wedding.

The exterior of Boojum Tree’s Hidden Garden is captivating with the colorful flowers lining up the entrance. This wedding venue in Phoenix, AZ is great for an intimate gathering of friends and family. The garden features a 25,000 square foot greenhouse, 2 fountains, a lily pond, 20 foot waterfall, a Palm Forest and an English Garden.

The Farm at South Mountain

Couples who want an indoor as well as an outdoor wedding venue in Phoenix, AZ can check out the Farm at South Mountain. This venue offers several function areas to choose from over 12 acres of property located near the foothills of South Mountain. Just 8 minutes from downtown Phoenix makes this property a great place for a wedding.

The Canopy in the Grove is an outdoor wedding venue with a huge canopy. With the garden and South Mountain as the backdrop, this function area is great for a grand outdoor wedding. On the other hand, the Morning Glory Patio is suitable for an intimate wedding. For couples who prefer to be indoors but still have the feel of the outdoors, then Isabella’s Garden is an option.

Phoenix Zoo

For those couples who are looking to maximize the wonderful natural backdrop provided by Phoenix should check out the Phoenix Zoo. The zoo is a 125 acre property located between the Papago Buttes. It features both indoor and outdoor wedding venues that can accommodate 5 to 10,000 guests. Couples can incorporate some of the wild animals living in the zoo or they can hold their wedding at the Stone House Pavilion.

Venue at the Grove

Also providing both indoor and outdoor wedding venues in Phoenix, AZ is the Venue at the Grove. This wedding venue is situated just a few minutes from downtown Phoenix. This 2 acre property has an orchard of pecan tress perfect for an outdoor wedding while the banquet halls is a suitable location for an elegant wedding. The hall can accommodate up to 140 guests while the courtyard can accommodate up to 200.

The Desert Botanical Garden is one of the ultimate garden wedding locations in Phoenix, AZ. This garden features several locations in the property where couples can hold their wedding ceremonies and receptions. The Desert Botanical Gardens offers both indoor and outdoor function rooms.

The Dorrance Hall and the adjoining Boppart Courtyard is an elegant indoor function room with floor to ceiling tapestries. Cocktails can be served at the Boppart Courtyard or the Kitchell Patio that are adorned with water features.

The Garden Butte as the backdrop, the Webster Center is a romantic wedding location. Couples looking for a little of the Southwest charm can check out the historic Webster Auditorium that has French doors which open up to the Eliot Patio.

Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort

Set in the gorgeous Sonoran Desert, the Point Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort provides a great backdrop for any wedding held in this resort. The resort features over 35,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor wedding venues.

The West and East Courtyards are great locations for an intimate wedding while the Falls Terrace features several waterfalls that cascades down to a reflecting pool making it a dramatic and breathtaking backdrop for a wedding ceremony.

Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort & Spa

The Sheraton Wild Horse Pass Resort and Spa is one of the most breathtaking resort and wedding location in Phoenix, Arizona. This spa and golf resort also offers both indoor and outdoor wedding venues for couples. Each outdoor venue, like the Private Wedding Lawn, Grand Lawn and Koli Equestrian Center, feature great gardens and manicured lawns while their indoor venues can be decorated to fit the couple’s preferences.

Favors are a way to be creative and to add a personal touch to your wedding. There is a wide selection of wedding favors to choose from. Below are some of the top innovative wedding favors that are fast becoming popular among couples.

1. Personalized Wedding Favors

Personalized favors are one of the most popular wedding favors nowadays. Brides are now doing away with the generic favors that can be bought in almost any wedding favor shops. With personalized wedding favors, you can add your own personal touch to each favor from imprinting the name of the couple, the date of wedding or even special quotes to celebrate the event.

2. Eco-friendly Favors

With more and more people becoming aware of the effect we have in the environment, more couples are now using eco-friendly products as their wedding favors.

To add a little something “green” in your wedding, why not give out eco-friendly wedding favors? There are several eco-friendly wedding favors to choose from including plants or ornaments, favors made from recycled materials.

3. Edible Favors

Another innovative and popular wedding favors are edible ones. Edible favors can include but not limit to giving out a miniature version of your wedding cake, chocolate bars with customized wrapping or jars of goodies like cookies and gourmet teas.

You can even tie your edible favors with the theme of your wedding like giving out sachets of spices if you are having an Indian theme. Edible favors can be baked goods, jams or jellies, personalized cookies and a bag of your favorite coffee beans to name a few. You can also give out your favorite food as your wedding favors. For a personal touch, include the recipe as well.

4. Do It Yourself Wedding Favors

Do It Yourself wedding favors are fun, yet inexpensive, souvenirs. With these kinds of favors, you can be as creative as possible. If you choose to, you can even have your guest create their own wedding favors! There are many types of DIY favors that you can give from scented candles to homemade sachets of potpourri. You can even customized these favors by creating the favors suitable for each guests such as giving vanilla scented candles to a guest who likes vanilla scent.

5. Seasonal Favors

A unique and practical idea for wedding favors is to align them with what is in season. Whether you have winter, summer, spring or fall wedding, why not have favors that speak of the season?

For a fall wedding, you can use spice-scented candles or a small basket that contains items that is reminiscent of the fall like dried flowers or potpourri. A winter wedding can be filled with poinsettias, candy canes, candles or a warm blanket.

6. Disposable Cameras

Over the years, disposable cameras have been one of the top favorite favors for weddings. Aside from giving guests the freedom to capture their own memories, you can also gather these images and see the wonderful moments your guests have captured that you might have missed on your special day.

7. Bottled Wedding Favors

Bottled wedding favors are unique favors that you can give out to your guests. You can either give out bottled products that you made on your own or personalize the labels. Why not give your guests a bottle of flavored vinegar that you made yourself or a bottle of olive oil filled with different kinds of olives? Place them in unique-shaped bottles to make it more interesting or different colored bottles. A bottle of your favorite wine is also another option.

8. Card / Picture Holders

There are several wonderful and intricately designed card/picture holders that you can choose from. You can personalize these holders so it shows the details of your wedding like your names and the date of your wedding. You can have a short poem engraved on these card/picture holders.

9. CD Compilation

If you love music, then this cool idea for a wedding favor is suitable for you! Compile all your favorite songs and burn them in a CD. You can customize the CD case to go with the theme of your wedding or place a cool graphics on the case making it look like a real album!

10. Candles

Candles have always been a favorite wedding favor no matter the theme nor the season. There are numerous shapes, sizes and scents of candles that you can choose from. Candles are practical yet elegant wedding favors that you can package any way you want.

Los Angeles is Los Angles is not just a shopping Mecca. The City of Angels is also home to some of the best wedding venues in the country. No matter if you are looking for an indoor or outdoor wedding venue in LA, there is something suitable for everyone.

Skirball Cultural Center

If you are looking for a location that is unique and interesting then the Skirball Cultural Center is a great option. This cultural center features several halls that can cater guests from 200 to more than a thousand.

The Ziegler Amphitheater is a unique wedding venue that resembles the old Roman amphitheaters while the Ruby Gallery is an exhibit gallery that is 1,940 square feet and is great for small wedding receptions.

Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel

Couples looking for a venue near the beach can check out the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel. This hotel is an ideal location for a beach wedding destination. The beach hotel features both indoor and outdoor reception areas. Both areas provide spectacular views of the Santa Monica beach.

Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel has 20,000 square feet of event space that is ideal for wedding sizes. The Oceanfront private dining is at the outdoor terrace providing guests with secluded Pacific views great for weddings with 200 guests. Overlooking the Pacific Ocean is the Venice Room that is great for wedding ceremonies and receptions.

Taglyan Cultural Center

Taglyan Cultural Center is a great wedding venue in LA that provides state-of-the-art event rooms. It features state-of-the-art technology, lighting and surround-sound audio and visual equipment. The center has 3 venues that you can choose from – Taglyan Gardens, the Foyer and the Grand Ballroom. The rooms can accommodate guests from 450 up to 1,000 depending on the seating arrangement. Custom floor plans can be created by their wedding staff to fit your needs as well.

Upon entering, the massive iron gates already set the tone for your wedding as well as the Old World opulence design of the place. The property features a formal brick courtyard with a huge 2-tiered fountain with white roses. The outdoor is also dotted with vintage-inspired street lamps. There is also the upper patio which also has 2 small gardens, a cherub fountain and marble pillars.

The Grand Ballroom itself is a feast to the eyes with its cascading crystal chandeliers and green marble pillars. One of the best features of the ballroom is its 5, 000 square foot, circular glass-stained ceiling.

The Taglyan Cultural Center also has an in-house caterer with their own gourmet chefs to help you design your menu.

Natural History Museum of Los Angeles

If you are looking for a wedding venue in LA that you want your guests to remember then you can check out the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles. Aside from the different exhibits and displays inside the museum, there are also several events room options you can choose from.

You can choose to have your wedding at the Grand Foyer that has a 40-foot ceiling and marbled halls. It also features twin half domes, travertine floors, marble columns and oversized brass chandeliers. The most unique feature of the Grand Foyer, however, is the Museum’s iconic Dueling Dinosaurs which are often the main attraction and display in any wedding.

The North American Mammal Hall is another interesting and very unique wedding venue. The hall is filled with different dioramas that provide a one-of-a-kind decoration to your wedding as well as provide entertainment for your guests. It is also the largest gallery in the National History Museum. This hall can seat up to 500 standing guests and 300 for a seat down set up.

Occidental College

The Occidental College was founded in 1887 and is one of the oldest educational institutions on the West Coast. The building itself provides a great backdrop to any wedding with its quadrangle lined with huge oak trees and elegantly designed buildings.

There are several rooms available that hold different events and functions. The Gresham Dining Room has an Elizabethan ambience featuring high open-beamed ceilings with tall arched windows. With its large, glass-covered courtyard, the Branca Patio is another wonderful wedding venue. The patio has an arcade that provides privacy as well as red floor tiles.

Aside from these, there is also the Music Quad with a fountain and the Hillside Theater which is a grassy circular outdoor amphitheater.

Chester Washington Golf Club

The Chester Washington Golf Club is a great option for couples looking for a huge, outdoor wedding venue in LA. This golf club can cater weddings where the ceremony rites are held right on the golf course itself. The Clubhouse patio is often the place for cocktails since it is located near the bar and lounge of the club.

The golf club also has a banquet room that features tall windows and high ceiling. On the other side of the room are floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding doors that overlook the manicured lawns with eucalyptus trees and pines. The banquet room also features parquet dance floor, chandeliers and cream colored walls.

Park Plaza

The opulent Park Plaza is one of the popular wedding venues in Los Angeles. Built in 1925, this historical hotel is a reminder of the decadent boomtown times of LA. Couples can choose from a several rooms for their wedding.

The Gold Room, located on the ground floor, is a small space that is great for intimate weddings. The space has dark wood wainscoting, Corinthian pilasters and antique tasseled chandeliers. On the other hand, the Bronze Ballroom features wall-to-wall burgundy carpeting. It has columns gilded in copper leaf with an Art Deco bar and glass doors that open out to the Tuscan Garden.

The Tuscan Garden is another great location for your wedding. This private, open-air courtyard is an outdoor option for a casual, yet cozy, wedding. The courtyard is often used for cocktails as well as intimate weddings.

LA River Center and Gardens

Couples who prefer to have an outdoor or garden wedding should look at the LA River Center and Gardens. Located in the former site of the Lawry’s California Center, this garden is near several attractions in the city including the Los Angeles River, Arroyo Seco, Elysian Park and downtown LA.

There are several garden wedding places in LA River Center and Gardens including the main even space, the California Building. This building has Mexican-tile floors with a huge, peaked skylight providing natural light to the entire space.

Aside from the main event space, the gardens around the center are also available. The River Garden Park features several park benches, a running water fountain and a variety of flowers and plants.

The City Club on Bunker Hill

The City Club on Bunker Hill provides magnificent views and wedding backdrop of the city of Los Angeles. The City Club is known for its sleek look with floor to ceiling windows in virtually every room. Eclectic paintings adorn the walls of the club while the large collection of vintage wines, premium ports and champagnes adds a romantic ambience to the club.

The club offers 11 different rooms couples can choose from for their special day all of which feature contemporary designs coupled with fine food and wine.

The Oviatt Building Penthouse

If you are into Art Deco, then you will love the Oviatt Building Penthouse for your wedding. As one of the most celebrated architectural gems, this Art Deco designed building features great views of the city’s skyline. The rooftop terrace features a Lalique chandelier and French marble mantelpiece.

You do not have to stick to common locations to get married in Washington DC. There are several wonderful places in Washington DC where you can hold your wedding.

Ritz Carlton Hotel

Probably one of the most elegant locations for a wedding in DC is at the Ritz Carlton. This hotel has an entire team that can cater to your wedding. Their wedding team can custom design your wedding from the ceremony up to the reception. They also offer other celebrations before the wedding like a bridal shower for the bride and a bachelor party for the groom.

Four Seasons Hotel

Couples with a little more budget can splurge at the Four Seasons Hotel. As one of the premier hotels in the area, couples can expect first-class service. With the Rock Creek Park, Georgetown and C & O Canal as backdrop, the Four Seasons Hotel in Washington, DC is another favorite venue for elegant weddings. They can provide tailored wedding packages or customized wedding events depending on what you prefer.

Old Stone House

The Old Stone House is the oldest standing building in the city built in 1765. This 3-storey building provides a historical charm to your wedding. It has a beautiful English garden that is perfect for an intimate, garden wedding. The garden is filled with roses, bulbs and various perennials creating a beautiful background to any wedding ceremony.

Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center

Brides looking for an elegant and grandeur wedding location should check out the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center. They have several halls to choose from including the Atrium which features a terrazzo marble and granite floor. It has a skylight that is 125 feet high creating a romantic environment. The Atrium Ballroom can accommodate a maximum of 1, 000 guests for couples wanting a huge wedding venue.

Sewall-Belmont House and Museum

This charming Federal-style mansion is located in the Capitol Hill district. The Sewall-Belmont House and Museum provides a unique setting for a wedding. The garden can be set up with a tent for a cozy wedding reception. It features a wall of glass paneled French doors. The doors lead to a interior terrace onto a patio made from brick.

Arts Club of Washington

This historical building is good choice for an outdoor wedding. The Arts Club of Washington is a National Historic Landmark founded in 1916 and can cater intimate, small weddings. It can accommodate 25 seated guests and 125 in the garden.

Stephen Decatur House Museum

The Stephen Decatur House houses several halls. It has an event hall that has a magnificent vaulted ceiling with French doors. The courtyard of this estate can also be used for cocktails. Weddings can also be held at one of the elegant historic parlors.

Hay-Adams Hotel

The Hay-Adams is an elegant, historical hotel that provides views of the White House, Lafayette Square and St. John’s Church. For couples wanting to be smack in the downtown district of Washington, DC, the Hay-Adams Hotel is a good option. This hotel is also a good venue for an elegant and romantic wedding. A honeymoon suite is often included as part of their wedding package.

National Parks in Washington

For the ultimate outdoor or garden wedding, you can check out the one of the National Parks in Washington, DC. Choose to have your wedding at Theodore Roosevelt Island, Tidal Basin, Montrose Park or even Rock Creek Park.

A permit from the National Capitol Park Service is required to hold a wedding in some of the parks. Reservation is also needed.

Doubletree Hotel Washington (formerly Washington Terrace Hotel)

The Doubletree Hotel is a chic hotel located in downtown Washington, DC. This boutique hotel is an ideal wedding location for couples wanting a different setting on their big day. Its innovative terraces are one of its endearing features and are great backdrops for a wedding. Wedding are held at the Terrace Ballroom or at the Garden Terrace.

When summer arrives, it is time to get out that grill and show your prowess in grilling meat, seafood and vegetables. However, just because it is a BBQ party in your backyard it does not mean you do not have to plan for it.

Planning the perfect summer BBQ is not rocket science. There are several things you can do to have a fun, entertaining and perfect BBQ party this summer.

Plan the food and drinks

A BBQ party is all about the food. Although you can cook almost anything in a grill, a little menu planning can help.

When deciding what type of food you will be serving for your summer barbecue consider the guests you have invited. Create a menu that can cater for all types of guests. If you have kids coming into your party, consider creating a kid’s menu.

Plan to have meat, seafood and poultry in your menu. This is to cover all grounds in case some one does not eat meat or is allergic to seafood.

Side dishes play a crucial role in a menu for it breaks up the monotony of having an all meat barbecue party. When it comes to side dishes, variety is the name of the game. Make sure that the sides complement the entrees.

Put in different kinds of side dishes like fresh green salads, grilled corn on the cob, and mashed potato to name a few. Take advantage of the many summer produce and create side dishes that are fresh and light. It is important to remember though that the dishes you choose should not spoil easily under the sun. You do not want any guests complaining!

Dessert should not be forgotten as well! Try to serve at least 2 types of desserts – a sweet treat for those with a sweet tooth and a refreshing dessert like a fruit salad.

Just like the food, plan the different beverages you will serve. Some of the usual suspects in a summer BBQ include beer and cola. You can also add water, fruit juices and wine for those who are not beer or cola drinkers.

Also, spend a few minutes setting up a beverage table in one area of your backyard. Put all the different beverages in the table while lining up the glasses. Place a cooler beside the table filled with ice so you do not have to run back and forth to the kitchen to get some.

You may also create a bar-like area where people can get their own drinks. Print out one or two cocktail recipes and display it on the bar. This way guests can mix their own cocktails at the same time have fun while doing it.

Decor and Set-up

Since a summer BBQ party is all about relaxing and casual dining, it is only appropriate that the set-up is casual as well. Create a cozy ambience where people will feel comfortable. Make sure there is enough seating for everyone.

Scatter the chairs and tables around the garden to utilize all the space. Create large seating areas to facilitate conversation among your guests. Place some throw pillows on the chairs to create a casual yet comfy atmosphere. Make sure that you put enough shades in the area. Nobody wants to be under the sun for too long!

It is also a good idea to put a kid’s area where they can play and be among themselves. If you have enough space or a grass area, put some shades, a picnic blanket or several blankets that is big enough to accommodate the kids. Throw in some huge throw pillows, books, colors and paper. This will help them occupy the time while the adults can hang out and chat.

Prepare some candles and anti-mosquito repellants in case your summer BBQ party reaches the late hours. Put some scented candles in the middle of each table as a decorative touch and light it up once the sun comes down.

Top 10 wedding planners in the US

Wedding planners are God’s gift to any bride for aside from helping them plan the wedding they can help create a magical, memorable wedding that a bride will surely not forget.

Planning a wedding can sometimes be stressful but if you have the right set of people to help you with all littlest detail than you are guaranteed to have a smooth-sailing, uneventful wedding day.

Maneesh Goyal

If you have money to spend, then Maneesh Goyal is the best party planner you can find. A planner for the stars, Maneesh Goyal can provide you with the best, high-quality vendors in the country. He can bring in a creative and imaginative style to your wedding without compromising your own style.

Sarah Haywood

Sarah Haywood is a premier wedding planner that has written the famous guide to nuptial success – The Wedding Bible. Although she is a famed planner for the who’s who, she gears her skills towards more regular folks. Sarah Haywood is able to provide practical advices for making a modest ceremony look like a million bucks wedding.

Red Velvet Occasions

Red Velvet Occasions is one of the top wedding coordinating companies in the country. They can assist you in handling all the details of every aspect of your wedding day. The red Velvet Occasions also offer different packages that pertains to how far along the preparation has been made. They can provide services for couples who have already secured all the vendors and would just like assistance on the day or for couples who do not have the time to get to all the nitty-gritty of a wedding preparation.

Amber Weir Event Design and Coordination

Situated in Ventura, California, Amber Weir Event Design and Coordination provides boutique event planning to couples. At Amber Weir Event Design and Coordination each wedding is tailor made to fit the needs of the couple.

They also provide customized services including budget creation and management, calendar of events and payment and guest list manager, to name a few.

Lido Wedding and Party Center

The Lido Wedding and Party Center is an affordable wedding planner company. They offer a wide selection of services including securing all the vendors for the wedding as well as assisting in the planning of the wedding. They also offer service packages to answer the specific needs of the couple. Their office is situated in New York.

Destination Bride

If you are planning a destination wedding then Destination Bride is a good option for a wedding coordinator. Destination Bride has a long experience in planning destination weddings. They can help you organize, plan and prepare for your wedding right in their office at Chatham, New York.

QuickCare Event Planners

Located in Tampa, Florida, QuickCare Event Planners have designed some of the elaborate events and weddings in the Tampa Bay Area. They specialize in custom designed affairs and provide a wide variety of services.

Your Dream Wedding and Events

Your Dream Wedding and Events is a full-service wedding and coordination company that offers a wide selection of services. If you have a budget but would still like to have the wedding of your dreams then Your Dream is your best bet. They can design, create, plan and coordinate your entire wedding all within your set budget.

Artful Event Planning

With over 19 years experience in event planning, you are assured that Artful Event Planning can help conceptualize and create the wedding of your dreams. They can work within your budget without compromising the quality of service. Artful Event Planning is situated in Greenvale, New York.

Beautiful Coordinations, LLC

Beautiful Coordinatios, LLC is a one-stop shop for brides-to-be. They provide a cost-effective event planning services and boasts of a people-service organization. Beautiful Coordinations, LLC can help you with all your planning needs from choosing the venue to sending out the thank you cards.

Planning a perfect summer wedding is all about strategy and organization. Without these two you better kiss your dream of a summer wedding good bye! Summer is the most popular time to get married so being prepared is the key to having a successful summer wedding.   

Create a Checklist

The best tool you will have in planning for a perfect summer wedding is to have a checklist of all the things you will need for your wedding from the type of linens for the reception to the flavor of the wedding cake.

Create several copies of your checklist and give copies to your wedding planner, if you pan to have one, or to someone who will help you plan your wedding. In this case, you are able to divide the work and be able to cover more ground.

Book in Advance

To get the best out of everything for a summer wedding, always book in advance. Since summer is the most popular wedding season, booking in advance will give you the edge of having more options than booking during the season itself. Ideally, book your venue and other vendors at least 6 months before your wedding date.

Pick a date but be flexible

Picking the wedding date will set things in motion. Once you have set a date then you are able to determine the timeline for all the products and services you require. However, when planning a summer wedding you may need to be a little bit more flexible on the date you choose particularly if the venue you are eyeing is not available on the date you want. In this case, you may have to choose between having the venue you want or having the date that you picked.

Choosing a Venue

Choosing a wedding venue is like setting up a head office – consider all the factors. If you already have an idea as to where you want to hold your wedding then things will be a lot easier for you. However, if you have not yet picked the wedding venue it is important that you do a little research. Choosing the venue of your wedding will largely depend on what type of wedding you want. Do you want a beach wedding or a garden wedding?

You may also want to consider the proximity of the wedding location to the airport, the accommodations in the area and even the transportation options.

Send out your invitations early

Summer is not only the time for weddings but many people set their vacation plans during this time. By sending your invitations early, you will have a good estimate on how many guests can go and how many guests you are planning for. Placing an RSVP on the invitation is always a good idea. It is also recommended to place the venue of the wedding so your guests can dress accordingly.

Food consideration

There are a lot of good seasonal foods during the summer. A light menu is recommended that includes abundance in fruits and vegetables. In this regard, you will not have to deal with food items that have to be flown from another state.

Picking the flowers

Take advantage of the many wonderful flowers that are in abundance during this season when choosing flowers for your summer wedding. Aside from the fact that you are assured that the supply will not run out, you are likely to get a much lower price for flowers that are in season.

There are many ideal wedding locations in New York City and finding the right one can be quite overwhelming. However, there are quite a few places that top the list.

The Foundry

The Foundry is located in Long Island, Queens directly across Manhattan. This 19^th century metal foundry provides a dramatic venue for any wedding. It features old exposed brick that contrasts with the modern steel railings. Along the walls are cave-like rooms that can be turned into small, intimate dining spaces or lounge areas for guests.

The venue can seat approximately 125 persons for a sit-down set up and 200 for cocktail. Outdoor tent seats are also available with a capacity of 160 guests.

With its high ceilings and skylight that encompasses most of the ceiling; The Foundry provides a romantic and cozy ambience.

Central Park Boat House

The Central Park Boat House, also known as the Loeb Boathouse, is situated right in the heart of Central Park. This space is an ideal location for couples who wants to be in the city at the same time be secluded enough from the hustle and bustle of the city center. The Boathouse also houses the Boathouse Restaurant that overlooks the lake.

The main banquet space of the Boathouse is the Lake Room which is adjacent to the restaurant. The space is surrounded on two sides by French doors that lead to the English garden and the Central Park Lake. The Lake Room can accommodate between 80 to 150 guests depending on the type of service.

The Pavilion is also another venue in the Boathouse. This space is larger than the Lake Room and can seat between 200 to 500 guests.

The Lighthouse at Chelsea Piers

Another favorite wedding destination in New York City is The Lighthouse right on Chelsea Piers. With its floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the Hudson River it is no wonder that the Lighthouse is a favorite among couples. The space also features hardwood floors, 10,000 square feet of windowed space and an all-season terrace suitable for cocktails and outdoor dinner receptions.

Aside from the overall look of the place, the Lighthouse also draws many couples because of the legendary caterer Abigail Kirsh who is the resident caterer for the Lighthouse.

The Lighthouse at Chelsea Pier is a large wedding venue capable of accommodating 100 to 650 guests for a sit-down meal and 1000 guests for a cocktail reception.

Angel Oresanz Center

This 1849 synagogue is another dramatic venue for a wedding. The Angel Oresanz Center has a neo-gothic style that features an amazing gold-leaf altar. It can accommodate 300 guests for cocktails and 250 for a sit-down meal.

Prince George Ballroom

For couples who want an ornate and dramatic wedding venue, then the Prince George Ballroom is recommended. This ballroom is situated in a landmark building in Manhattan’s Madison Square North Historic District.

The intricately-designed, colorful ceiling and golden columns provides an elegant ambience to any wedding reception. The Prince George Ballroom measures 4,800 square foot making it an ideal place for an elegant, large wedding.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

This 52 acre botanical garden is situated in the borough of Brooklyn. The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is divided into several themed gardens each with its own charm but some of the more notable ones are the Japanese Hill and Pond Garden, Cranford Rose Garden and the Osborne Garden.

Wedding ceremonies at the garden are expected to start at 9AM and end at 10AM when the garden opens to the public.

Flower Bar at Banchet Flowers

The Banchet Flowers is an unexpected, yet charming, venue to hold a wedding since it is actually a floral shop. This 1,800 square foot venue provides an intimate space that features brick walls. The Flower Bar, situated next door to the shop, is a contemporary space that can accommodate 125 seated guests.

Gotham Hall

Gotham Hall features a magnificent Art Deco ballroom that has a 7-storey grand vaulted dome. The hall has Corinthian columns and marble floors that add to the ambience of the place. The Gotham Hall is an ideal place for a grand, dramatic reception that can accommodate 1200 guests. The space can also be intimate by using sheer curtains to divide the space.

United Nations Delegates Dining Room

The Delegates Dining Room inside the United Nations building features floor-to-ceiling windows and 180 degree views of the East River and New York’s skyline. This space is ideal for large wedding receptions accommodating up to 700 guests and by adjoining the smaller dining rooms the entire space can accommodate 1000 guests for cocktails.  

Café St. Bart’s at St. Bartholomew’s Church

For an indoor wedding, the Café St. Bart’s at St. Bartholomew’s Church is a good option. Couples can have their wedding ceremony and reception all in one venue. The café features a 5,000 square foot terrace that overlooks Park Avenue.

Bridesmaids play an essential role in wedding traditions that span the globe and date back centuries. The bridesmaids are counted on to perform timeless duties, from warding off evil spirits to keeping the groom on his toes. Wedding traditions and beliefs may have changed over the years, but the significance of the bridesmaid remains the same – a symbol of trust, devotion and friendship. View our bridesmaids guide video (courtesy of the Dessy Group) for a fun, historical look at the role of bridesmaids.

Getting married is one of life’s most important moments, and it’s not always the easiest. The actual celebration usually costs tens of thousands dollars, and that’s actually one of the reasons that led to the creation of the tradition we now refer to as “bridal shower”. As the name suggests, this is a time where guests are expected to shower the bride with gifts that will help her in the newly wed lifestyle she’s about to embrace.

One of the most important things in bridal showers is making sure the receiving couple gets things they’ll actually use. To this effect, it’s mandatory to ask the bride to come up with a wish list that will be distributed among the attendants. That’s something you should keep in mind if you want to make a decent bridal shower, but if you want to make something extraordinary, you really need to think out of the box: for example, you can choose an exotic venue (such as a cabaret or a swimming pool), or maybe arrange for a unique entertainment that will treat your guests with more than just another boring pre-wedding party.

If you really want to make an original Bridal Shower, you should strive to keep your guests engaged with some kind of game or presentation… maybe even some karaoke? Also, one of the things about weddings is that so many people get depressed because they’re single; with that in mind, why not try to come up with some social games that will maybe encourage new couples to hook up? Spreading the love is arguably one of the best ways of expressing your own love! Remember that.

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Every day is a special day, when you get to share it with someone that you really like. But once every year, there’s a remarkably special day – that’s St. Valentine’s, the day when you’re expected to really make sure the person you love gets treated with a wonderful time. The best thing about this day is that both individuals are expected to work hard for mutual benefit, so that’s double the energy in making everything perfect!

In fact, it’s almost funny that some people are oftentimes eager to think of something that will surpass their other half in expressing their mutual affection. If you’re looking for ideas that will get you ahead in the game of love, maybe we can help! For example, some people apparently believe it’s all about spending lots of money; this is a most unfortunate misconception, since genuine affection can hardly ever be expressed with something as crude as a price tag. So, if you want to grace your loved one with a perfect Valentine’s day, you should really dig deep into what you know she or he likes, to find the right course of action.

You do know about the legend behind St. Valentine, right? It’s all about a martyr priest who sacrificed himself for the sake of delivering romantic messages. Now, that’s the true essence of Valentine’s day: expressing your affections with full, unabashed clarity. And the best way to show someone you really care is showing them you know who they are; their darkest fears as well as hopes and dreams. So to organize a perfect Valentine day, you just need to put your head and heart into it, and try to figure out what will really make your lover happy! And hopefully, no one is better qualified for figuring that out than you are.

Our children are our investment in the future; today’s children will be the driving force of tomorrow’s world. We should cherish our sons and daughters everyday, but even more so when it comes to their birthday; do you remember when you when young, how thrilled you always got when your birthday arrived? Do you remember how you always hoped for a perfect party? Needless to say, this is a very important celebration for every infant; if you want to make sure your kids get a flawless birthday party and you don’t have the time or know-how, maybe we can help you find the perfect event planner to suit your needs.

When it comes to organizing a great birthday party for kids, there are a lot of details involved. Long gone are the days of clowns and piñatas; kids nowadays are always on the lookout for the latest trends, such as their favorite cartoons and tv shows. If you want help organizing a party that will please your children and all their friends, you can choose from a variety of ready-made party themes, or we can help you come up with a personalized theme that will meet your children’s expectation. Have you considered what the perfect present will be, and what kind of cake will be most effective? What about the foods and beverages, have you considered getting healthy products which kids might enjoy? If you want to make sure everything is covered, you should know there’s a lot to keep in mind!

A great birthday party is much more than a simple event; it’s a way of showing your children just how important you think they are, and proving them you’ll go out of your way to do something really special in their special day. With support from professional event planners, you’ll make sure your children get unforgettable happy memories from the best birthday ever; that is something priceless, and we look forward to making the best matches between even planners and people like you who want to throw a perfect party.

Find Event Planners for your parties at: Planaganza.com

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The world is always a better place when different people learn how to get along. This is why I think globalization could be a great way of promoting mutual knowledge and understanding among cultures; and while I’m not about to encourage you to actually adopt holidays from cultures other than your own – it might be disrespectful for the original culture – I definitely think that you should use such holidays as a chance to learn something new about different kinds of people.

Unless you’re a Jewish, I think there’s a good chance you don’t really know much about Hanukkah, except perhaps some shallow glimpse you’ve captured from trivial conversations or even TV shows. With that in mind, I thought it would be appropriate to provide some insight on this Jewish holiday. For the outside viewer, this is easily recognized as the festival of lights because, well… there are a lot of lights involved in the celebration. Regardless, there’s much substance lurking behind this religious ritual which you probably don’t know about.

Most people seem to think of Hanukkah as the Jewish version of Christmas; truth of the matter is there is really no connection or comparison between both holidays. Even though Hanukkah is celebrated in the same time of the year, it commemorates the physical and spiritual triumph of the Jewish people, which secured their creeds and independence more than 2,000 years ago. The celebration of Hanukkah is thus a deeply spiritual event (which spans 8 days) aimed at providing homage to the wonderful workings of God.

Ahh… what can I say about Christmas. This is probably one of the most magical holidays in the world, and it’s definitely a universal season; no longer is Christmas just a Catholic celebration! For sometime now, this holiday has been adopted as a good chance to celebrate peace on earth, and good will among men…. Religious preference notwithstanding.

There are many people who oppose Christmas because they feel it’s an overtly consumerist season, where people put aside what really matters. Well, let me tell you something… you’re then one in charge, and YOU decide what really matters. If you think Christmas Spirits is all about kindness and compassion, there’s no one stopping you from doing just that, and living through the season the best way you can! Here’s a thought: This year, why not think about making something really special out of Christmas Eve?

I know this is supposed to be a family event, but why not thing about gathering more of your family than you usually do… like those cousins and uncles you’ve almost got out of touch with? In fact, why not consider inviting a homeless person or someone who you know will be alone to spend the evening with your family? The more the merrier, right? If you really think Christmas should be a chance to show the best of ourselves, this is your chance to prove it! Do something different and special that makes this Christmas one of the brightest ever! If nothing else, just write a lot of postcards to send ALL the people you like? Trust me, small gestures can make a world of difference.

Social holiday… or simply a good old day of rest? What comes to your mind? Most of us tend to use the time off from work to rest from our busy life, to read a book, or simply to watch that movie that we’ve been meaning to watch! Even though all these activities could bring some enrichment in personal terms, it will only get you dragged into a lonely existence! Besides, getting some time for yourself is great and all that… but we suppose you could come up with something more exciting (and social) for those upcoming holidays?

Oh, you lack ideas? I’ll just lay out the real master plan for your consideration: why not organize a solid group of friends and / or co-workers who might be interested in sharing a unique social holiday, and… rent an island to spend that once-in-a-lifetime vacation? You might think I’m joking, but Island renting is a rapidly flourishing business which allows regular people to experience an outstanding luxurious setting for a very reasonable price. You might think renting an entire island would be inordinately expensive, but if you succeed in polling a solid group together, it may turn out quite cheap for everyone!

Okay, this might sound like something too “far out” for most people, but you should really look into island renting (or otherwise renting foreign villas) as a way to organize THE holiday social no one will ever forget about! Another option may be to rent a house in the montains and enjoy a weekend getaway! Otherwise you may just want to throw together a barbecue (if your in a warm weather locale)… sure, that’s fun and easy, and the time spent with your friends will be memorable!

If there’s something I learned as a child that I am teaching my children, is to make the best out of the cards they’re dealt by life. If you get lemons don’t mope… make fresh lemonade! Now there’s the kind of positive reasoning I’m a big fan of! And when it comes to winter, the same principle could be applied: don’t just complain about the chilly weather, keep focused on the shiny ice!

Sure, feeling cold is annoying, but that’s nothing you can’t get around with a simple heavy coat. Once you think about it, the cold is just a technicality, and there are many beautiful things that you can experience in the cold winter outings! Who doesn’t like watching the snow, or trying skiing or snowboarding? Which child has fully experienced childhood without making a snowman, getting into a snowball fight, making angels in the white show and feeling blushed from the cool ice? If you live in a place where there is no snow, you should serious think about getting a true winter outing, this year!

Sometimes, you’ll find resorts in the mountains not too far away from your city, where you’ll get to experience the best winter thrills with the least expense. There are winter resorts out there with ridiculously low fees, and sometimes it’s just a matter of shopping around until you find something that perfectly fits your budget. Think about this next time you find yourself complaining about the weather, and make sure to get yourself some icy lemonade!

When you were younger, your birthday was probably one of your favorite days of the year. However… as you grew up, you probably started pretending that it wasn’t such a big deal: after all you’re now an adult, and you have more important things to keep in mind… right? Well, we think we’re wrong. Your anniversary is not just the day you add one digit to your age; it’s not just the closure of yet another trip around the sound; it’s the day when you owe it to yourself to get surrounded with all your loved ones, and celebrate life.

When it comes to organizing a perfect anniversary event for yourself or someone you love, we understand that time is of the essence. And there never seems to be enough time to organize a perfect party, right? You’ll have to decide how many people you want to get, call designated friends and acquaintances, create a list of suggestions for presents… and let’s not forget about the cake! Do you plan on getting a caterer and host the party in your home, or would you prefer renting an appropriate space to make it big? Maybe you’ll consider getting some life music to create a most pleasant party mood? Organizing a perfect party can be extremely time-consuming; well, fortunately you won’t have to worry with all the technicalities – provided you rely on the help of a professional event planner, that is.

There are many adults who seem to enjoy pretending as though their anniversary is not a big deal. Well, we know better than that! Any anniversary should be a celebration of life, and we’re specialists of turning that celebration into a perfect and memorable event. If you need help organizing an impeccable anniversary party, it’s best to make elaborate plans to make sure you remember everything… otherwise you may just want to get a professional event planner. Whichever you may choose, you can rely on Planaganza.com for support and information!

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  So, you’re thinking on how to reward your employees after one of the most stressful years in recent memory, but you have a small budget, or lack ideas? First of all you should keep in mind that’s not really a problem: people expect from corporate holiday parties is just spending a good time far away from the pressure of the work place.  Most employees view corporate oliday parties as a way to improve personal bonds with co-workers, thus promoting a more relaxed – and productive working environment. Once you realize the global goal of the get together, the occasion is all about sharing experiences, thoughts, and socializing out of the office.

With that in mind you shouldn’t be concerned about renting an expensive place for the party… actually, if the weather is inviting, fresh-air activities are always one of the best choices that you can make. You can start by arranging collaborative activities that can stimulate the group, while encouraging people to communicate collectively. It’s always nice coming up with some fun activities or sports that will keep people entertained and promote a friendly environment. Such scenario will get people to speak freely even with their superiors.

Cutting the formalities right from the onset of the party will be a good way of promoting friendly interactions. Naturally, it’s always a good idea to get some snacks offer your guests, using the less formal attitude you can find, and why not give some symbolic awards (with no material relevance) to the top performing teams from the events you organized?   

Buy favors for your events at the Planaganza Event Shop and get Free Shipping when you spend more than $50! Use Discount Code "Holiday08" to save 10% off your purchases over $100!

It’s true, these holidays we are getting back to the 1920′s, with the ghost of the recession hanging on our heads! But in the end, it could be all about returning to the basic, to the meaning of the season itself!! ‘’Saving it” only depends on your ability to show others your feelings for them, to be kind to the others, to really get the meaning of it in the personal sphere, without the material requests of this society of consumption!

So, this season keep it simple: be with your family, show the support they need, and be gifted with the affection and the wellbeing that they provide you! Be a present member of your community; help the others with your own work and dedication, stand for a greater good, putting aside your personal goals to archive a common one.

That is the true spirit of the season, the ability to be and to give something to the others, rather than a material gift, to ‘’catch-up” with your loved ones, to be part of a celebration that is intended to be a spiritual reflection about your year, about your projects, and about yourself!

In the end, you will see that, sometimes, in this stressful world, all you need is to lie back, and enjoy the simple things in life… like a smile, a simple conversation, or even an ‘’Hi, how are you?”! That’s really something you can hold on to!

If you really want to spend your money on gifts, be sure to visit sites like: eBay and Fatwallet to find deals!

Also, visit the Planaganza Event Shop to save on items to make your gatherings a blast! In addition to FREE SHIPPING on orders greater than $50. We are offering 10% off orders over $100. Use Discount code “HOLIDAY08″ (offer good until 12/31/08).

When it comes to under-rated and misunderstood holidays, Thanksgiving is probably one of the top ranked events all year round. For most people, Thanksgiving seems to be nothing but an excuse to eat some roast turkey or pumpkin pie and get most of the family together as a kind of prelude to the Christmas Eve. Well, we think it should be much more than that, and hopefully you’ll agree.

This is nothing personal we’re holding against Christmas, mind you; and we understand that Thanksgiving is traditionally a day when you’ll query your family concerning their desired Christmas presents… and there’s nothing wrong with that, really! Regardless… there’s a lot more to Thanksgiving once you think about it! This year, when you’re cutting up your nice beefy turkey, why not take the chance to just pause and think about what you’re really doing? I mean, don’t you have SO many reasons to be thankful? Just leave that turkey alone for an instant, and take a good look around you – I’m sure you’ll be thankful that you did.

You see, you might have thought I’d turn this into a pro-Native Indian rant, but there’s really a lot more to it! Besides its historic importance and background, Thanksgiving should be regarded as a chance to say thanks for everything you’re grateful for… your family, your friends, your career… everything in your life that makes you happy. Why not think about actually saying thanks, this year? If that’s not a family tradition in your home, it might as well become one, and you could just lead by example. Think about that!

At Planaganza, we strive to make a difference in the lives of our members who use our site to assist in planning all of life’s events. As such, we wanted to send a reminder to our members that is it Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Did you know?!?!?…

Please keep this in mind when you plan your events! Planaganza offers 3 favors that benefit women’s health-focused charities. A percentage of each purchase will benefit the Young Survival Coalition, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the unique issues and concerns that are important to young women with breast cancer. The Young Survival Coalition educates communities through advocacy and awareness and provides support to those living with this devastating disease. For more information on the purpose and mission of The Young Survival Coalition, please visit their website at http://www.youngsurvival.org/.

Who knew a favor could do so much?

“In Favor of a Cure” Pink Ribbon Plantable Wildflower Favors (Set of 12)

In Favor of a Cure Pink Ribbon Frosted Glass Photo Frame

“In Favor of a Cure” Pink Ribbon Favor Box (Set of 24)

Though this tough economic environment has reduced the amount some couples can spend on their special day, there are couple who can afford an expensive wedding (due to savings, parents, etc.). For these couples (or for couples who would like to see the luxury wedding trends), luxury bridal shows are the place to be to learn what goes into a luxury wedding!

While most luxury bridal shows offer the same features as a traditional bridal show, it is access to vendors and the ability to learn the latest bridal fashions that makes a difference. These luxury shows cover the typical aspects of a wedding, including ceremony area, live music, and ballroom dancing. Guests can sample dishes from leading caterers in a true wedding-reception environment and tables are usually set by the finest florists, designers, and tableware companies.

In NYC, a company named 4PM Events is hosting its annual luxury bridal show -The Wedding Salon on October 22 in Manhattan at the Prince George Ballroom. At this “million dollar wedding” showcase, over 50 of New York’s high-end bridal vendors – David Tutera, Sylvia Weinstock Cakes, Tiffany & Co. jewelry, and Oscar de la Renta just to name a few. Be sure to check it out if you are planning you special day and tell them Planaganza sent you!

Are you planning a luxury wedding? We would love to hear from you…Please leave a comment below!

Back to school and Labor Day are two great times to have a BBQ with family and friends. This is one of the few time left this year to really enjoy the company of loved ones in the warmth of the sun (at least in the northern part of the country) and before the rigors of another academic school year.

Recently at a “college send-off BBQ”, we played several games that were a blast.

Scavenger Hunt Icebreaker – In terms of outdoor BBQ party games, this one is fantastic if your guests don’t know each other. Prior to your event, create a list of categories that people may fall into, give one copy to each guest. Examples include “someone who has the closest birthday as you”, “someone who shares the same hat size as you”, “someone who plays an instrument”, or “someone who is a football enthusiast”. This game invite guests to mingle with each other until they are able to find someone who meets each of the categories on the sheet.

Musical Chairs – This familar classic of your youth is even twice the fun as an adult. To refresh your memory you need to set up chairs in a double row, back-to-back, with one less chair than there are players. Select and play a favorite song, and the players march around the chairs. The music suddenly stops; at which point everyone tries to sit in a chair. The player who is standing is out of the game and one chair is removed for the next round. The last player left wins!

Spoon and Egg Challenge! – Balance hard boiled eggs on a soup spoon and race to the line to gently hand off the egg to your relay team partner. The team that completes a hand-off and crosses the finish line wins!

Have you played a game at a BBQ or party recently? We would love to hear about it in the comment section below!

Can you believe it!  We are three months into the Major League Baseball season?!? At Planaganza we love the game and this has been the season of many surprises. Who would of predicted the Tampa Bay Rays would have the best record in the American League or last year’s National League Champs -Colorado Rockies would have the worst record in the National League?

If you and your friends enjoy the game, or you are looking for a different type of outing visit your local ball park. A few sample outings are below:

• Bachelor Party – Start your special day with a round of golf in the morning and finish the day at the park. It will be a great place to hang out with your buddies and unwind before your big day! If you can attend during a special event such as Boston Red Sox Picnic in the Park or a promotional night that could be an added bonus -Toyota Chase Utley Bobble Figurine
• Girl’s Get together – A day at the park will provide a great environment to catch up with the girls in a social environment. Some teams have event geared towards women, for example the Minnesota Twins recently hosted ‘Wine, Women, and Baseball’.
• Family outing – Some teams like the SF Giants offer packages for children. The Giants offer 2008 XTREME Kids Club which includes: 2008 4th-edition Lou seal ceramic mini wind-up; 2008 Xtreme Kids/Giants backpack; Membership card with a $5 credit to the Dugout Store; and Two (2) View Reserved tickets to a select Giants home game. There are also benefits for the parents. A day at the park can be a great way to bond with a child and leave lasting memories both you and your child!

Plan your baseball outing at Planaganza.com!

Memorial Day is a  U.S. holiday that  is observed on the last Monday in May.  The holiday is set aside to commemorate the men and women who have served and died in military service to the country dating back to the American Civil War.  Some people also view Memorial Day as the unofficial start of summer.  If you are among this group of people who are ready to come out of winter hibernation, here are some great ideas for celebrating the start of the summer season.

• Caribbean Wine Festival at Linganore Winecellars
  • May 24-25, 2008
  • 12PM – 6PM
  • Mt. Airy, Maryland
  • 2 Caribbean bands, winery tours and wine tastings
  • $15 for Adults, $10 for 18-20 years old, Free for children under 18
• Captain Morgan’s Jam on the River at Penn’s Landing
  • May 23-25, 2008
  • Philadelphia, PA
  • Musical  festival with various acts and musicians
  • Tickets are $45 and need to be purchased in advance from TicketMaster.com
• Navy Pier Memorial Day Celebration (Fireworks display)
  • Starts May 24, 2008
  • Chicago, IL
  • Twice weekly from Memorial Day until Labor Day
• Fiesta Hermosa in Hermosa Beach
  • May 24-25, 2008
  • 10am – 6pm
  • Los Angeles, California
  • Over 270 vendors, Doggie Costume Contest, live music and art

Plan these and other events at Planaganza.com

Although most mother’s are genuinely in love with the little “do-dads” and “whatchamacallits” that their little ones give them on Mother’s Day, when that little one grows into a not-so-little one the do-dads start looking like junk.

Give mom something she wants or something she can use for Mother’s Day.  Look for clues in the things she likes to do.

If your mother is an avid baker maybe think about getting her a membership to Bakespace.com (it’s free!), make her a nicely decorated recipe book with new recipes she’s never tried, or buy her a new bakeware set complete with cupcake pan and roller.

What if mom likes to travel? Think about getting her some durable luggage with personalized luggage tags, maybe splurge on a plane ticket to her favorite destination or making a scrapbook filled with postcards from all the places she has been.

If your mom is in need of some R&R, get her a full day pampering at a local spa complete with pedicure and facial, get her a bedroom makeover for the perfect relaxation retreat after a hard days work, or make a coupon book with various chores around the house that she can cash in whenever she wants.

Mother’s Day is suppose to be a time to show your mom that you are thankful for all that she does.   Show her that you care by getting her a gift that is specific to her personality.  Buying flowers, going to dinner or giving jewelry are all great yet generic gift ideas.  Surprise your mother with something different this year!

Plan this and other events at Planaganza.com!

Whether it be holiday parties or corporate picnics, office socials help to bring the team together. Interdepartmental shindigs and group outings help employees identify with their co-workers on a personal level as opposed to simply a person they work with.  This identification helps to build trust and fosters real idea sharing and teamwork in the office.  Additionally, employees generally start to care about the success of their teammates as well as their individual success.  Here are some quick, relatively planning-free social ideas for building camaraderie in the workplace:

1. Have an informal lunch at a nearby restaurant – conversation over some good food!
2. Attend a sporting event (group/corporate rates are typically lower) – even if you’re not a sports fan, bonding can take place at the ball game!
3. Bi-monthly family potluck dinners – people typically do not participate in social events for work because they would rather be spending that time with their families.  Get the whole family in on the act by have family potluck dinners on a rotating schedule at various employees homes.

Plan this and other events at Planaganza.com!

As the first city in our Go Local feature, Philadelphia, the city of brotherly love, is the ideal place to start. With all of its historic flair and undeniable culture, Philadelphia is a great place to hold your next event. Go Local Philadelphia highlights trends, ideas and tips for planning events in the area as well as access to local experts including Mark Kingsdorf of Queen of Hearts Wedding Consultants, Karen Pecora of Karen Pecora Events, Randi Martin of Always Fabulous Events and Larry Ott of Open Aire Affairs. We will continue to build out Go Local Philadelphia to include features such as upcoming local events, Top 10 lists and discussion boards.

Over the next couple of months, Planaganza will launch Go Local for other major areas including New York, Delaware, Washington, DC , Baltimore and more. Visit Go Local Philadelphia at www.planaganza.com/GoLocal/ and start planning your next event in Philadelphia!

The Home and Garden Show is the premier tradeshow for home decor and outdoor living experts.  This is also a must-attend event for home remodelers, landscaping enthusiasts or for the trend seeking homeowner!  This year’s show will feature celebrity personalities like Shane Tallant from HGTV’s show “Designed to Sell”.  The show will of course feature over 300 exhibitors like American Marble and Granite (for those to die for granite kitchen countertops!) and Home Network Systems (for wiring your whole house for the ultra cool home audio systems!) to help with all your maintanence and design needs. 

If you are a new home owner or in the market for a house and need decorating ideas, the Home and Garden Show is the place to be February 21 -24, 2008 at the Dulles Expo Center.  Make sure to create your home inspiration on Planaganza to take to the show with you!

Plan this and other events at Planaganza.com - The Place for Life’s Events!