Simply Shay: "No Kids Please"

Preparing To Attend An Event Without The Kids
Nicole Phillips - Splitcybernality.com

How often have you prepared for "me time" and realized that you needed "me time" before your actual "me time"? Here are 3 simple steps that will ensure any event you attend without the kids is well worth the occasion.


1. Prepare in advance. Unless you've been invited to an event in the spur of the moment, you have time to prepare. Let's take a wedding for instance. As soon as you get the invitation begin to make childcare arrangements. When securing arrangements make sure you ask if they can keep the kid/s well enough in advance. This will give you time to relax and take care of any unfinished details. I've also learned to take this one step further. If you have a spouse that can pick the kids up when its time for them to come home, do so. Or maybe the person seeing after your kids is willing to bring them to you. After enjoying a wonderful function, picking up kids is the last thing you want to do. However, if you don't have this option make the best of it.

 

2. Early dress rehearsal. Why do we always wait until the last minute to try on the clothes we're wearing for a special occasion? Making sure we know what we're wearing, what fits, what doesn't and what we may need to complete our wardrobe, saves us time. We can all use time on our side.



Designs By Shay

3. Pamper yourself. Here comes the good part. You've sent your kids to who's taking care of them for the day. You know exactly what you're wearing. Now, it's time for a little "me time before the affair. You may have chosen to go to the salon or spend the morning shampooing,conditioning your hair and/or giving yourself a mani and pedi at home. Whatever you have chosen to do, spend it enjoying time alone before the event. You deserve it!

NICOLE PHILLIPS - Loving all multi facets of her life; Wife, Mom of 3 and Mama Blogger has a lot on her plate and doing it all with a spirit of excellence is her hearts desire. Nicole is also a Licensed Cosmetologist/Instructor for over 19yrs. Working as an entrepreneur as well as with some state of the art Product Development Companies, she has learned balance in her career. As the CEO/Founder of Splitcybernality, Inc. Nicole noticed in 2008 how social networking users created multiple accounts for the different interest in their life. Therefore she created, The website & forum SPLITCYBERNALITY.COM® ~Who Are You Today
___________________________________________
Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Simply Shay: "You and Your Cake Topper"

He's traditional and wants a bride and groom as the cake topper, you're contemporary and want a monogram; where is the happy medium? What's right and who's wrong in this scenario?

Your cake topper is the "Cherry" on the banana split, the "I" in I Do and the "Pretty" in Please. It is that final design element that expresses your own personal style.

When choosing your cake topper remember it says a lot about who you are:

• Are you hopeless romantic? There are many couple toppers and flowers to choose from if this best describes your personality.


• Do you have a sense a humor? If you both ride motorcycles, this might be an opportunity to display that fun, whimsical side .


• Simple, classy and love your identity? The Monogram may be just for you.

From elegant bride and groom figurines and funny cake toppers to monogram cake topper letters, the key to picking the perfect wedding cake topper is to make it all about you!

(photo source:  Exclusively Weddings, Etsy.com)
Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

SimplyShay: "Live, Learn & Grow"

Earlier this week I was posed the question "what is the meaning of family?"  I must admit it stumped me because like who doesn't know what family means!  According to Wikipedia, in human context, a family is a group of people affiliated by consanguinity, affinity, or co-residence. In most societies it is the principal institution for the socialization of children. Well, I guess that explains it :)

I'm sure you've heard the statement "you can choose your friends, not your family"; how true is that!?  Family members (good, bad and ugly) help make you who you are.  They are the people that when all the chips are down.. they are down with you.  These are the people that during good times will cheer you on and in bad times, let you know they are bad then lend a hand to pick you up.  These "family" members will get ugly with you AND about you.  Raw and uncut life discussions, loyalty beyond words is my idea of family... you may not like them all the time BUT through it all they are still family and nothing and no one comes between those letters.. FAMILY.

Many families choose the summer months to conduct what we call a "Family Reunion".  The importance of a reunion is the same whether it's FAMILY or CLASS--It allows opportunities to revisit the past as well as learn from the people who share your past.  This life we live doesn't last forever, so when you're at the park or in your backyard these last few weeks of summer; ENJOY your FAMILY! 

"Live, Learn & Grow"

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

ChiTown Moms Nite Out 2011

In 2010 Kris, Ronnie, Sharon, Sydney and Nicole were Moms Nite Out.  This year, in 2011, it has a different face and overall feel.  ChiTown Moms is the brainchild of Kris Cain and emerged after a successful 2010 campaign where many moms inquired about when there would be another event. Kris, having been in social media for about 12 years, has managed forums for moms off and on in many forms took the bull by the horns and created this wonderful community of moms making a difference.  While her initial circle consists of Ronnie Roseman, Sydney Reid and Sharon Patrice, who assist with organization and anything she else she needs, this new "community" has writers from different backgrounds and expertise.  Therefore, in addition to the previously mentioned, has a few new faces....Antionette Petersen, Alicia Pheiffer, Candace Ford and Sara Parisi on the ChiTown Moms site.

The 2011 event, which is only open to those that have pre registered, has a great lineup of sponsors including GM, Kernel Sweetooth, LittleTechGirl.com A Techy Mom's Nerd Paradise,   Lenise Miller (Mary Kay), Kenmore, Designs by Shay, WhatchuNeed Unlimited, Bloomin' Headz, Carolina Pad,  Sister Save-A-Lot and  Mario Tricoci Hair Salons & Day Spas to name a few. 
 
Kenmore Live Studios is where over 100 moms will get together and network with each other while partaking in their live cooking show with Chef Mark Beir of Chicago Fit Club and enjoying wine from Roija Wines served by some nice male waiters. 
 
~ Peaceful Planning
Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Simply Shay: "Wedding Favors"

Seemingly a simply task; many couples stress over what to give their guests as a "thank you" for attending their wedding, eating their food and dancing to their music.  Many couples prefer to give the guests something edible rather than an expensive crystal ornament. Candy, sugared almonds, mints and truffles are always a pleasing favor to give.
The tradition of giving wedding favors can be found deed in ancient European history. The bride and groom gave small presents, or favors, to their guests and well-wishers to thank them for sharing the momentous occasion.  Often suger was given and because it was such a rare substance, the contents of the ‘bombonaiere’ were of great value.

A symbol of well wishing the wedding favor represents the five most important ingredients of a marriage bond: Wealth ~Health ~Happiness~Fertility and Long Life

The wedding favor is a symbol of love and respect from the bride and the groom, and a token of well wishing for their future together and can include such items as ribbons, candles, picture frames, personalized book marks, laminated plaques, candy, seed packets, pillows, balloons, potpourri, and more. 

~ Peaceful Planning
Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Tasty Tuesday - "Ice Cream"

Summer is in full bloom and a great treat at weddings or any social event is ice cream!  There are plenty of sites that carry really cute accessories like the customized wooden spoons from Paper+Cup. These cute spoons can be printed with your names, your wedding date, or your favorite nicknames for each other and make dessert even more delectable for your guests!

However, for the "after party" take a sneak peak at this Tasty Tuesday's Spotlight Vendor...

Latrice Mosley-Smith & Ervin Smith are the owners of a Unique Specialty Pkg Service, Inc. the home of Sex Scene Ice Cream.  In 2003, Ervin Smith seeing the need for such a product, came up with the idea, Latrice came behind him and perfected it; putting their favorite things together Sex Ice Cream and the movies thus you have Sex Scene Ice Cream!

Mrs. Smith really loves seeing the expression on people faces when she does her presentation and expresses to them that it really is ice cream!!  She does, however have a guilty pleasure which is eating the product that they are suppose to be selling and buying two pairs of shoes every week.  Hey, what's a girl to do right?  Latrice and her husband Ervin are very humbled and grateful to be able to share their passion with other couples.  Every day she thanks God for seeing another day and kisses her 6 year old daughter.

That one piece of advice for brides-to-be?  After planning for the big day don't forget to plan for the rest of your life with your husband!

While couples desire titillation, many are more aroused by erotic images that are subdued rather than blatant.  PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT THIS ITEM IS FOR ADULTS ONLY.

"It may be hot outside, but get you some Sex Scene Ice Cream and make it steamy....wherever"
 ~ Peaceful Planning
Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Life 4 Liam

Cheer Command is more than an allstar cheerleading facility located in Mokena, Illinois.  On Friday, July 22nd from 4pm - 7pm they are coming together to raise money for the Quirk Family. Kevin Quirk is a tumbling coach at UGA whose son Liam was diagnosed with an Auto Immune Disease called Chronic Granulomatous Disease (CGD). You can find more out about Liam’s journey on http://www.life4liam.com/.

Many athletes know Kevin from over the years and the folks at Cheer Command feel they have the capability of making a financial impact for his family. Kevin has to travel several times a week to visit his son as he recovers from a stem cell transplant. This and the doctor fees have put an understandable financial strain on their family.

Please join Cheer Command in their Tie Dye and Tumbling event for Friday July 22nd from 4pm-7pm. The fee is $20 for a tshirt that you can come Tie Dye and then hours of open gym.  The goal is to get instructors from other programs to come help support this cause. We are reaching out to other Cheer and Gymnastic facilities as well as schools and park districts.

If you can't tumble but would like to donate; contact them at cheercommand@yahoo.com.  Together we can achieve so much more...

~Peaceful Planning
Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Summer Sunshine Sangria...

Soothing Saturday's With Shay are JUST that!  Soothing and relaxing.  A few weeks ago I hosted a clip and tweet workshop with Antoinette Peterson (aka) Sister-Save-A-Lot for a few a close friends and family. The goal of this workshop was to learn money saving strategies when shopping for your family.  So, in that same spirit I decided to make my own sangria and other refreshments.  Needless to say it was a hit, so here is the recipe for my Summer Sunshine Sangria.

 Chilled Wine (I used a sweet Riesling)

Fresh Orange

Fresh Lemon

Fresh Lime   

Frozen Pineapple Juice

Passion Fruit Juice

Ginger ale

Using a glass pitcher cut the fresh fruit into sections and squeeze, add the frozen juice and 2 cups passion fruit juice then the bottle of wine.  Stir and add a little ginger ale for fizz and the fruit for ... "appearance".... serve chilled.. enjoy :)

SN:  One guest made it for her family without the wine... they loved it so much they didn't save her any.  Im "Simply Shay" and I approve this message...

~ Peaceful Planning

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Tasty Tuesday Vendor Spotlight

For the month of July I've decided to feature something sweet and tasty!  As you will read, each of our Simply Tasty Tuesday Vendors bring something unique and special to any event.  So sit back and relax as we take you on a sweet journey with today's spotlight vendor ~

Katherine Anne Confections 

From a small farm in Wisconsin Katherine Duncan was using cream from her family's Jersey cows to create soft, old-fashioned caramels at the age of 10.  That early passion has led her to Chicago where she is the owner of  Katherine Anne Confections. 

Having been in business for five (5) years, when coming up with unique flavors, Katherine looks for other desserts and flavor combinations that may have not been paired with chocolate or caramel before.  Homemade from scratch, she and her staff make and eat a lot of chocolate to come up with the best flavors!

Currently renting kitchen space in Logan Square, Katherine doesn't have a storefront where you can come in and make on-site purchases.  However, if you are interested in a truffle making party (perfect for bachelorette!!) they do open up their production studio as well as their limited-edition preview parties which happen monthly during the summer.

When asked for that one piece of advice for brides, Katherine stated,

"Use edible favors, even if they aren't mine (though mine are delicious!). An edible favor is one that is guaranteed to be enjoyed and appreciated by all ages"

July Katherine Anne Confections is launching their new summer seasonal truffles & caramel which will be around 'til the end of August:

- Porter Hazelnut Truffle is milk chocolate, roasted hazelnuts, locally brewed porter, and malted milk crisp. It has lots of caramel and roast-y notes, with a subtle tang from the porter.

- Blackberry Fennel Truffle is farmer's market blackberries, fresh grated fennel, pastis, and fennel pollen with bittersweet chocolate. It's dark, intense, and fruity.

- Apricot Basil Truffle is local roasted apricots, homegrown basil, and bittersweet chocolate. Caramelized apricots and fragrant basil create a complex, fruity, and summery flavor.

- Strawberry Balsamic Caramel is our classic honey caramel, infused with white peach balsamic, and blended with local market strawberries. Sweet and tangy, fruity and delicious, this was a spring favorite last year and is returning for a triumphant summer season!

To PURCHASE these treats it's best to order online at katherine-anne.com. They are also found at several Whole Foods stores throughout Chicago, and 6 farmers markets each week.  Contact information for Katherine Anne Duncan • phone at 773.727.3248 • email.

 ~ Sweet Peace

Want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Good Vendor Relationships

Establishing Good Vendor Relations

By Juanita E. Gaynor

Having a solid relationship with your vendors can make you more efficient as an event planner. Imagine not having to take the time to choose floral arrangements because your floral designer is always spot on in her creations. Picture a relationship with your caterer in which you can choose a menu without scheduling a tasting because his cuisine is always magnificent. Developing your vendor relations will save you stress and time, both of which you can save for planning more events.

The Vendor Cast of Characters

Your vendor list will vary depending on your field of event planning that you specialize in. When shopping for a vendor, ask your colleagues and other event planners for their recommendations. You can also ask the company for referrals from other clients in the industry. Be sure to fully vet and qualify your prospective vendor before you decide to hire them. As with event planners, vendors rely heavily on their reputations to be successful. The following vendors are staples to have within you arsenal when you begin your career and as you continue in your career.

• Caterer

• Florist (Floral Designer)

• Baker (Specialty & Custom Designs)

• Purveyors (companies selling produce, seafood, meat products, and beverages)

• Wine and beer companies

• Liquor distributors

• Labor companies (electricians, general contractors, carpenters, and painters)

• Photographers

• Videographer

• Graphic & Web Designer

• Specialty stationery designer and/or printing company

Up Next?  How to create goodwill among your vendors

Author’s Bio
Juanita founded Ellegant Affairs by Juanita, Inc. in 1995 age the age of twenty-one when she was looking for career where she could work closely with her clients, make an impact in their lives, feel relatively quickly the sense of accomplishment when all your hard work has come together. Juanita has brought her considerable talents to product launches, nonprofit gala events, fashion shows, corporate events and high-end social events, such as weddings, birthdays and bar mitzvahs. To each event she produces, Juanita brings her own unique sense of style, and her knowledge of the latest industry trends, plus a great team of youthful and dynamic employees to make her clients' dreams a reality.

She is a certified wedding planner that holds an Associate’s degree in Business Administration from Eastern Nazarene College and is currently working on a Bachelors degree in Global Business Management from the University of Phoenix.

She is currently working on her first book and working to expand her company globally. She credits her business success to her sensitivity to her client's needs and her desire to make every event an unforgettable experience.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Art Institute of Chicago vs. Summer Brides

If you wanted to have your wedding at the Art Institute of Chicago, be prepared to spend $5,000 for the outside terrace, and $10,000 for the entire third floor, including the Terzo Piano restaurant, according to Art Institute spokeswoman Erin Hogan.  A beautiful scenery unless you've booked it for this summer because that covered view of the city is now blocked by art.

Hogan and the Art Institute are working on ways to address the concerns of wedding parties including full access to Nichols Bridgeway, which connects the modern wing to Millennium Park.

"At the same time, we are an art museum committed to bringing contemporary art -- and art of all periods and places -- to our visitors," Hogan said.

Expecting a lush, green view of Millennium Park, Gabrielle Berger, who holds a degree in art history and formerly worked at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, booked the outdoor terrace months ago for her June wedding. To her delight (not) "Restless Rainbow," designed by artist Pae White for the terrace, will now obstruct that view.



José M. Osorio, Chicago Tribune

Consisting of colorful vinyl strips, the artwork, opens to the public on Saturday, May 21st wraps around the terrace's glass panels and sweep across the floor. The panels on the north end of the terrace, which overlooks over Millennium Park, are 18 feet tall.

Booking in modern spaces has it's ups and downs.  You have to be OK with the possibility of change. 

"I knew what risks we were taking in booking the space," Berger, who thought the stark white walls of the museum's modern wing would fit with her wish for a "minimalist" wedding, told the Chicago Tribune. "But what they've selected to display in the space during wedding season is absurd."

 (Source: chicagotribune.com)
~ Peaceful Planning
Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.

Who Will Make the Final Cut for Kristin Cavallari and Jay Cutler's Wedding?

So all you Chicago Bears fans - looks like we'll have a wedding to celebrate next spring (2012)when Kristin and Jay wed. 

According to sources, either she's planning either a really big wedding for 400 to include the football team or really small for like 40.  That being said, some of her former co-stars make not make the final guest list.  Also, don't look for a reality tv show from this couple anytime in the future either.... Kristin says, "Jay hates all that stuff."

Want more? Read it here...

~Peaceful Planning
Sharon Patrice Simply Perfect Peace Events, Inc. You or your brand want coverage at an upcoming event? Getting married or having a social event and need assistance? Email Me For All Your Event Planning Needs.