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How To Save Money By Choosing A Wedding Dessert Buffet Table

2010-05-18T15:53:00.000-07:00

Date: May 28, 2007 • Author: Emily • Filed Under: Budgeting & Cakes & Catering & Flower & Decorations & Guests & Planning & Traditions & Customs & Unique Ideas

In recent years there has been a shift towards dessert buffet tables at weddings. Rather than offering a choice of two desserts followed by a slice of wedding cake more couples are breaking with tradition and opting for serving a variety of desserts at their wedding reception.
Most couples opting for a dessert buffet table at their wedding reception also have a small wedding cake too for the traditional cake cutting. Setting up a table with a selection of delicious desserts alongside a smaller wedding cake will not only complement your wedding cake but is also sure to shave money off of your wedding costs. Your guests will be more than happy to fill up on sweet treats from your dessert table.
The cost of a traditional wedding cake is a major expense during wedding planning. Most bakers charge per piece of cake and prices start at $3 - $6 per slice. Depending on how many guests you are inviting to your wedding reception this can soon add up. Most couples set aside $500 for the cost of a wedding cake which is a large proportion of the typical wedding budget. For my own wedding I ordered a wedding cake for 100 guests at a cost of $650. If you are on a tight budget then by arranging an assortment of mouthwatering and eye-catching desserts you can make your wedding stand out for a low cost. Decadent desserts such as this Dulce De Leche Torte, which is available at the Publix Grocery Store, cost from $16 and serve 10-12 people. If I had opted for a selection of gourmet desserts such as this for the guests at my own wedding then I could have saved myself well over $400. It’s no wonder dessert buffet tables are fast becoming the newest trend in wedding desserts –they are a much cheaper option!
Advantages
Besides the financial savings setting up a dessert buffet table at your wedding reception will give you, there are plenty more advantages for jumping on the bandwagon of this growing trend:
♥ If you want to encourage your wedding guests to mingle then what better way than to have them converge at the dessert buffet table. This will allow them to chat and get to know one another whilst choosing their sweet treats from the assortment on display.
♥ Whilst almost everyone loves some type of dessert, there are many people who don’t like wedding cake. You are sure to receive grateful comments from non-cake fans and your younger guests too if you serve a selection of desserts at your reception.
♥ You can carry your wedding color theme or style through into your selection of desserts.
♥ You can personalize your wedding by incorporating varieties of desserts which represent you or your fiancé’s ethnic background, family traditions or the region you are from. You could even choose desserts which are native to your chosen honeymoon destination.
Which Desserts?
When deciding upon which sweets to include on your dessert buffet table remember that they do not have to be lavishly expensive desserts. Whether you choose your wedding desserts based on your color theme or your personal favorites, here are some of the most popular dessert buffet choices:
♥ Chocolate cheesecake
♥ Torte
♥ Gateau
♥ Profiteroles stack (I have sampled these mouthwatering profiteroles from Marks & Spencer and totally recommend them for quality and value for money!)
♥ Fresh fruit flan
♥ Fruit tarts and pies
♥ Souffles
♥ Trifle (very British!)
♥ Bundt cake
♥ Pavlova
♥ Almond slices
♥ Chocolate mousse cups
♥ Bite sized mini cakes and desserts
♥ Cupcakes
♥ Petite fours and truffles
♥ A cookie tray assortment
♥ Platters of fresh fruit
Sourcing desserts
There are a few options for where to source an attractive array of desserts from:
♥ If you are having your wedding catered, check with the caterers if they would be able to provide an assortment of desserts for your wedding reception and discuss prices with them. As far as transportation and setting up of the dessert table is concerned this would definitely be the easier option.
♥ You will probably have your own favorite local bakery so why not try there as your first port of call. You could order desserts from them to be delivered to your wedding reception.
♥ If you are on a tight budget you could pick up tasty desserts from your local grocery store. Remember to discuss this with your wedding caterers at the outset of your wedding planning so that it is clear they will not be expected to provide desserts.
♥ Alternatively, if you have the time, inclination and culinary expertise you could make your own desserts or ask a friend or family member if they would be willing to make their signature dessert for your reception.
Dessert ideas with a fun element
All bride and grooms want their guests to have fun at their wedding reception and I think that if you provide an interactive dessert station then you will be encouraging them to join in with the celebration and create a lighthearted atmosphere.
♥ You could choose to have ingredients set out for guests to get stuck in and create their own ice cream sundaes. Bowls could be laid out with toppings such as whipped cream, sprinkles, mini candy sweets, chocolate flakes, fruit and sauces to top them off.
♥ Another popular dessert choice is a chocolate fountain surrounded by fresh fruit and other sweet dipping items.
♥ If you have a lot of children attending your wedding reception you could set up a cookie decorating station. It might be a bit messy (depending on the age range of the children) but it is a surefire way to keep them amused!
Remember that your choice of desserts is just that - anything you wish! You can be as fun and innovative as you want. Your wedding guests are sure to enjoy sampling a variety of gourmet desserts whatever you choose.
Tips for setting up your dessert table
I know that huge wedding cakes can make a great focal point at a wedding reception but there is no reason why you cannot achieve the same effects with a sumptuous dessert buffet table. Here are some top tips for arranging your dessert table.
♥ If you are decorating the dessert table yourself have some fun dressing it up. Use plush swathes of your favorite fabric to match your wedding colors as a backdrop.
♥ To add visual variety to the table make sure that the desserts are not all displayed at the same height. You can insert stacked plates or a small sturdy box underneath the tablecloth to elevate some of the desserts to create different heights at the dessert table.
♥ Present the desserts using a variety of serving dishes to add a colorful and interesting element to the layout.
♥ Add elegance to the dessert table by decorating it with flowers and floral trims in colors to match your wedding theme. Scatter flower petals around the cakes on the table.
♥ How about placing a large colorful floral arrangement as the centerpiece to the table. Just make sure that foliage is not going to come into contact with the desserts.
♥ Bowls of fresh fruit such as lemons, limes, apples or tangerines would make a vibrant and fragrant addition to the table.
♥ Think ahead with the layout of the dessert table. Place items such as dessert plates, napkins and forks at one end and then position the desserts in the order that you prefer down the center of the table. If you decide to go with the interactive dessert table it would be advisable to place the chocolate fountain or sundae making station at a separate table.
however simple or sophisticated your dessert buffet table ends up being, it is sure to be a feast for your guests’ eyes and stomachs and they will certainly appreciate your efforts.
Like everything with wedding planning the decision of whether or not to venture into the world of wedding dessert buffet tables is subjective. It comes down to your own personal tastes and your budget. Whilst I am not advocating shunning the traditional wedding cake at wedding receptions, I do believe that dessert buffet tables are an exciting, versatile and inexpensive addition to the traditional wedding cake (not to mention yummy!).

Courtesy of: http://www.nwweddingguide.info

The Collaborative Wedding Budget

2010-05-05T17:13:00.000-07:00

Coordinating Multiple Parties with Ease
Cherie Johnson May 04, 2010 The American Chronicle
Courtesy of: http://www.nwweddingguide.info/
For husbands-and-brides-to-be with large, extended families, they often find that both sets of parents, and perhaps even grandparents, want to chip in to help defray the soaring cost of today's weddings, which, on average, come in at a whopping $20,000. Many couples, too, are electing to pick up the rest of the slack. Corralling so many people who want to help with the wedding budget can be a virtual nightmare though. Before simply accepting their good wishes and checks, the very first thing you should do is to sit down with your fiance and chart a course of action to ensure you've covered every element of your wedding that requires a significant contribution. Planning a wedding with a budget in mind comes down to knowing what you're looking for in terms of venue, vendors, and necessities - this, however, can be easily put to rest with a systematic budget planning road map.
Planning a Wedding with a Budget in Mind
An itemized wedding budget detailing the specifics - such as the dress, food/drinks, venue, flowers, and band - will ensure you've covered all the major aspects of your wedding day.
At the top of your worksheet, spreadsheet, or what have you, list what you've decided is a reasonable amount to spend on the wedding. On the left hand side, make each specific and significant element that you must or would like to have a line item. For instance, the ceremony, which encompasses the venue/place or worship, wedding officiant, and any licenses, would be listed here. Decide on a true and honest estimate of what you're willing to spend planning a wedding on a budget, and then, at a later date, add what you actually spent so that you can keep accurate track of your finances. Other items in the left hand column should consist of things such as the reception (food/drinks, cake, favors, venue, etc.); wedding attire (bride's clothing and shoes, makeup, hair, groom's clothing and accessories); rings/jewelry; flowers (for the entire party and at both venues); music/band/DJ; photography; transportation (if applicable); invitations and signage; and anything else that would cause a significant dent in your wedding budget. Remember to include such essential fees as tips for vendors (about 15 to 20%), trial hair and makeup sessions, and dress/tuxedo cleanings and pressings.
As far as planning a wedding on a budget with your parents, his parents, and any other well-wishers (step parents perhaps), show them your finalized wedding budget at an informal, yet constructive meeting. Discuss costs and who can realistically afford what. In days past, it was common - and expected - for the bride's parents to pay for everything, a modern dowry in a sense. Today's weddings no longer involve such a considerable sacrifice, though it is still carried out by many traditionalists. At this meeting, you'll want to discuss how the payments will be made; maybe your parents would like to split something or pay for one segment of the wedding entirely. Will they be giving you one lump sum in a check or visiting vendors with you to pay upfront? Such concerns about planning a wedding on a budget should be dealt with by a frank talk that involves all parties.
Many wedding budget planners suggest opening a separate wedding account at your bank that's not linked with any of your personal accounts. This simple action will help you more carefully figure out what's been spent on the wedding and where the funds are going. You should also set aside an additional 5 to 10% of your overall wedding budget should mishaps arise. The likelihood that you will go over your budget is almost a given; the amount to which you do can be controlled, in most instances, by careful wedding planning, and that budget of 5 to 10% extra you've stashed away will come in handy. Scaling back from the get-go is a huge help; this includes things like not having a buffet (wasted food), having fewer bridesmaids, and offering just wine and beer at the reception (alcohol is a major expenditure). Still, if these are must-haves, just be cautious of vendors who try to up sell you to some better, improved service that you probably don't need. Research is a crucial part of planning a wedding on a budget, so make sure you do your fair share before visiting vendors and venues.
Fine-tuning Your Wedding Budget for Success
Far too many couples forget about planning a wedding with a budget in mind and have a bang-up, blow-out bash that ends up putting them in the red. Add that to any other debts, and you're starting your marriage - which should be thoroughly exciting – with a gray cloud over your heads. A well-planned wedding budget that's done from the start - with nothing unaccounted for - will ensure that you can mosey off to your honeymoon with nothing else to worry about but enjoying yourselves.

Wedding Mountain

2010-04-29T16:16:00.001-07:00

Naturale' Beauty

2010-04-29T16:10:00.000-07:00

Fine Jewelry

2010-04-29T16:09:00.001-07:00

Wedding Videos

2010-04-29T16:07:00.001-07:00

Watch my videos collection at Video Share Group
Collect your favorite videos and create video gallery like this at Video Share Group

A New Engagement

2010-04-17T12:49:00.000-07:00

So you're tying the knot? Congratulations! Now prepare to party.
... So you said "yes." What do you do next? Pull out the party gear and prepare to celebrate the good news.

Traditionally, engagement parties have been hosted by the brides' parents and held in their home. These days, however, it's fine for just about anyone close to the bride to host this bash, and the fete can be held anywhere!

Some couples have more than one engagement party—a formal one at mom's house and then something more spontaneous and fun with friends. Some couples hold a party during which they suddenly announce their engagement. (Surprise!) Here are some ways to make your engagement party extra special:

Past Perfect
Your friends and family can share in the history of your romance when you hold your party at the location where you first met or where you got engaged. Or you can turn an inside joke into a party theme. Did you first set eyes on him when your cars were stuck side-by-side in a traffic jam? How about inviting your pals to a bumper-car rink? Is his nickname Party Animal? Ask your local zoo if they'll rent out space for a party. Yours can be an event for your memory book.

Born in the USA
An engagement party doesn't have to be a stodgy affair. The old-fashioned, all-American backyard barbecue can be a perfect way to celebrate. Decorate the trees with streamers, unfurl mini flags for your table centerpieces, and artistically place your condiments in a small picnic basket in the middle of the table. Don't forget the backyard touches: potato salad, chips, bottled beer—and music by Bruce Springsteen, of course.

Bowled Over
Want to surprise your friends and family with your news? Invite them to bowl a few games before you knock 'em silly with your announcement. Notify the alley in advance to ask for super-special treatment like customized soundtrack, lighting, or culinary options.

Swinging With Your Sweetie
Gear up for your impending vows with a '50s sock hop. Rent a jukebox so your guests can scroll through the play list to find perfect songs for the happy occasion. Options for the sock hop setting can range from your parents' finished basement to a private room in a restaurant.

Sophisticated Tastes
Celebrate in style with a wine and cheese party. Highlight certain cheeses and their complementary wines on small tables decorated with strewn flowers or elegant linens. Let your guests sample Brie with Cabernet and Beaujolais, Stilton with port, and Gouda with Riesling and Champagne.

If Champagne is your preference, you can't go wrong with strong cheeses and appetizers such as prosciutto-wrapped cantaloupe and asparagus with lemon butter. As you sip and savor, everyone can share your joy.

Sugar for my darling
If you've got a sweet tooth, paradise is a dessert party. Create a little piece of heaven-on-earth with a white-chocolate macadamia-nut cheesecake, strawberries, and truffles. Serve up a selection of dessert wines (port, white Riesling, Merlot, and Cabernet) and typical dessert-time beverages such as espresso, coffee, and tea.

By: Laura MacNeil/via Modern Bride Magazine

Courtesy of http://www.nwweddingguide.info/

Wedding Invitations-Green-Budget Friendly-Hand Made

2010-04-10T14:44:00.000-07:00

As featured on the Destination I Do Magazine blog!
Get the quality, stylish, eco-friendly and modern wedding invitations you've been searching for without breaking your wedding budget or doing it yourself!

Choose from one of my originally designed wedding invitation suites and I will personalize it to match your wedding colors and information. All of our products are printed on high quality eco-friendly post-consumer recycled paper. Also available are save-the-dates (with or without photos), place cards, table numbers, menus, programs, thank-you cards, or any other wedding stationery items you may need all coordinated with your wedding suite. All a-la-carte invitations and packages include RSVP cards.

The do-it-yourself invitation kits seem like a bargain, but after adding up the cost of ink for printing, the time for assembling and the hassle of working with their printing templates that never line up just right, let me do the work for you so you can enjoy the fun aspects of planning your wedding. Your invitations will come printed, trimmed, and ready to address and send!

To view more of my work and order a sample of one of the wedding suites please go to my online store at: http://www.papermango.etsy.com and for detailed pricing information scroll to the bottom of this post.
If you're looking for an even more personal touch for your wedding let us design a completely custom wedding suite just for you. Email or call for quotes on custom wedding invitations.

For questions or additional references please contact Melanie at:
email: melanie@papermangodesign.com
mobile: 480.784.7460
web: http://www.papermango.etsy.com
blog: http://www.papermangodesign.com
I'd be honored to be a part of your special day!

A LA CARTE PRICING
Flat invitations w/ envelope and postcard RSVP: $3.00
Layered invitations w/ envelope and postcard RSVP: $3.50
Pocket invitations w/ envelope and postcard RSVP: $5.00
Standard Mail RSVP w/ envelope: $.50
Save The Date w/ envelope : $2.00
Thank You cards w/ envelope : $.50
Programs: $2.00
Escort or Place cards: 10/$2.00
Menus: $2.00
Table Numbers: $2.00
Maps or other invitation inserts: 10/$2.00

PACKAGES
All packages include printed proofs of your wedding invitation. In addition to the discounts listed below I also offer a 10% quantity discount for orders of 150 invitations or more.

The Backyard Wedding - $80 (Over 10% savings)
* 30 flat invitations of your choice printed with your wedding information and details. Invitation envelopes and postcard RSVP cards included.
Add additional suites in quantities of 10 for only $25

The Resort Wedding - $150 (over 15% savings)
* 30 flat invitations of your choice printed with your wedding information and details. Invitation envelopes and postcard RSVP cards included.
* 30 Save-The-Date cards coordinated to match your wedding suite. Envelopes included.
* 30 Thank You cards coordinated to match your wedding suite. Envelopes included.
* Unlimited place cards or escort cards coordinated to match your wedding suite.
Add additional suites in quantities of 10 for only $35.

The All Inclusive Wedding - $220 (Over 20% savings)
* 30 flat invitations of your choice printed with your wedding information and details. Invitation envelopes and postcard RSVP cards included.
* 30 Save-The-Date cards coordinated to match your wedding suite. Envelopes included.
* 30 Thank You cards coordinated to match your wedding suite. Envelopes included.
* 30 Programs for your ceremony, coordinated to match your wedding suite.
* 30 invitation inserts coordinated to match your wedding suite.
* Unlimited place cards or escort cards coordinated to match your wedding suite.
* 8 table number cards coordinated to match your wedding suite.
* Up to 60 menu cards coordinated to match your wedding suite.
Add additional suites in quantities of 10 for only $55.

Courtesy of: http://nweddingguide.info/

Ideas for Processional Song Choices

2010-04-08T14:21:00.000-07:00

The Processional begins as the immediate family members are ready to be seated. Depending on your ceremony dynamics, you will choose a new song as your bridal party walks down the aisle.

Song Title Artist #34 Dave Matthews Band
A Bird Without Wings Celtic Thunder
A Day Without Rain Enya
A Little More Skillet
A Love Like This Dan Fogelberg
A Moment Like This Kelly Clarkson
A Passage to Love Scott Yahney

A Song You Might Hear in a Wedding Jon McLaughlin
A Time for Us (Love Theme from Romeo and Juliet) Andy Williams
A Whole New World (Aladdin Soundtrack) Jessica Simpson and Nick Lachey
Air George F. Handel
Air On The G String Johann S. Bach
All For Love Bryan Adams
All He Has To Do Sheri Miller
All My Life K-Ci & Jojo
All around me (acoustic) Flyleaf
Always Atlantic Starr
Amazed Lonestar
Amazed Lonestar
And I Ciara
And I Love Her The Beatles Be the First!
Angel Chaka Khan
Angels Robin Thicke
Angels Robbie Williams Be the First!
Angels Brought Me Here Guy Sebastian
Annie's Song John Denver
April Showers Dru Hill

Arrival of the Queen of Sheba George F. Handel
At Last Beyonce
At Last Etta James
Ave Maria Josh Groban
Ave Maria Beyonce
Back at One Brian McKnight Be the First!
Beau Soir Debussy
Beautiful Day U2

Beautiful Day U2
Beautiful In My Eyes Joshua Kadison Be the First!
Beautiful In My Eyes Joshua Kadison
Beauty Is Ner Name Dru Hill
Because You Loved Me Celine Dion

Courtesy of:http://www.nwweddingguide.info

Why Not-Honeymoon & Your Hobby

2010-04-03T12:30:00.001-07:00

There is no reason you can't combine your Honeymoon with one of your favorite hobbies. If you are a bird watcher and want to honeymoon in a warm climate, this might be just the thing for you!
Every year, winter cold fronts push migratory birds and birders alike south to Florida, where most land somewhere along the great Florida birding trail.
Divided into four geographic sections-East, West, Panhandle, and South-the GFBT is a 2,000-mile, self-guided pathway that connects 489 sites ,m including some of the state's hottest birding spots. Begin your Florida birding vacation with a stop a the GFBT website, http://www.floridabirdingtrail.com, which features an interactive trip-planning tool to help find birding destinations by species, habitat or location in the state. The site also provides a video library, downloadable guides, and more features to help you improve your birding experience in the Florida outdoors.

Bringing Home A Bunny-Should Your Child Have A Bunny For Easter?

2010-03-18T16:24:00.000-07:00

With Easter right around the corner, pet stores are stocking up on bunnies for sale. Doesn't everyone at one time or another think about buying a bunny for their children at Easter?
Many of these bunnies are bought on impulse, without knowing all the responsibility a rabbit requires. Not too long after Easter, many of these bunnies are neglected or taken to local shelters once the novelty wears off.
Before buying that cute, fluffy bunny in the window of the pet store, give it some thought. Do you have the time and patience to devote to a rabbit? And did you know that rabbits and young children are usually not a good combination?
The Truth About Rabbits
Melissa Stockton bought a bunny for her 4-year-old last Easter. "We bought a baby bunny, and things were fine for a while," she says. "But when the bunny got a little older, he started to kick when Daniel picked him up. The kicks sometimes resulted in scratches and tears." "Rabbits are ground-loving animals," says Roxanne Snopek, a registered animal health technician and Suite101 guide for Family Pet Care. "They do not particularly like to be picked up." Rabbits are also easily startled, and the energy of an active preschooler can frighten them. "The sudden movements and loud noises of young children make them nervous," she says. "They are physically unsuited to rough handling."
Rules were quickly established at Stockton’s house. "Daniel had to sit down and put the bunny on his lap to pet him," she says. "The bunny, Peanut, was pretty tame by then and enjoyed being petted on his lap."
Be Realistic
As with any pet, parents should assume they will be the primary caregivers. "Most children will lose interest in a pet after some time – particularly if housed outside in a cage," says Snopek. "That doesn't mean that they do not love the rabbit, or they shouldn't have it. But parents need to model responsible pet care and encourage the child to participate with them in the care of the pet."
"Many parents think that a rabbit is a good starter pet for a child – to teach him or her responsibility," says Janis Abel, a member of the Bunny Buddies executive committee. Bunny Buddies, based in Houston, Texas, is an organization working to educate people about rabbits. "Rabbits require constant DAILY care, and that care is usually too much for any child to handle on his or her own," she says. "Ideally, no child should have the ultimate responsibility for the life of a pet, but especially not a child under 12 or 14 years old."
"I consider the bunny MINE," says Stockton. "Daniel enjoys him, but I knew from the start that he was too young to take responsibility for a pet. I do make him help me feed him and clean the cage." She does not mind that Peanut has become her rabbit. "I love him,” she says. "I think I enjoy him more than Daniel does."
Bunny Basics
Many people keep their pet locked up in a hutch in their backyard. Once the excitement over the new pet wears off, this can make for a lonely, and sometimes abused, animal.
Bunny Buddies encourages rabbit owners to keep their pet inside. "Many people who have kept their bunny outdoors are surprised when they bring them inside to discover that the bunny has a personality,” says Helen Swann, president of Bunny Buddies. “It's not just a lump in a hutch! Rabbits are smart, entertaining, affectionate and lots of fun, but not if their only connection with a human is when they toss food into the hutch."
Keeping a rabbit indoors requires some "bunny-proofing" to ensure the safety of your house and your pet. "Electrical cords have to be covered or made inaccessible, and wooden furniture is attractive to many bunnies," says Swann. Poisonous plants should also be moved out of the bunny's reach.
If you do decide to keep your rabbit outside, the proper cage is important. "Consider building a large enough pen, so the child can actually go inside and play with the rabbit, without having to pick it up or fearing it will run away," says Snopek. "A regular hutch surrounded by a 6-foot by 6-foot wire enclosure works well for one family I know. To protect the rabbit, the enclosure must be completely cat- and dog-proof, dug into the ground and covered on top."
"I had rabbits as a child," says Stockton. "I remember one of them being attacked by a neighbor's dog and killed. I was horrified." To ensure this does not happen to her son's rabbit, she had her husband build a cage that sits on a wooden table. "And, we only let him run in the backyard if he's supervised,” she says. “It only takes a second for something to happen."
Rabbit Safety
What precautions can parents take ensure the safety of their child and the rabbit? Snopek suggests teaching your child the proper way to handle and care for their new pet.
•Gentle petting. They don't like to wrestle like dogs do; they like soft stroking.
•Don't chase the bunny. If he hops away, wait till he comes back, or ask Mom and Dad for help.
•Don't touch droppings or cage litter.
•Don't pick up the bunny. It scares him, and if he struggles, he might scratch you.
"Never allow the child to interact with the rabbit without adult supervision," says Abel. "Rabbits should not be picked up unless you are sitting on the floor, but even that is not recommended for really young children – teach them to be satisfied by petting while sitting next to the bunny."

Choosing Your Bunny
When choosing a rabbit for your child, Snopek suggests picking a larger breed of rabbit. "The larger breeds tend to be less energetic and excitable than the dwarf varieties," she says. "Their size makes it easier for a small hand to stroke them, and harder for them to be picked up."
Consider adopting a bunny from your local animal shelter. Most people only think of cats and dogs when they think of shelters, but there are usually many rabbits there available for adoption. "Humane societies, shelters and rescue agencies all report a sharp increase in the number of rabbits relinquished to them in the spring and summer months," says Snopek. Thousands of rabbits each year are put to sleep at animal shelters because homes cannot be found.
"Most Easter bunnies do not reach their first birthday!" says Abel. "They often die young or they are released outdoors or to a shelter. If they don't die, they are often banished to a lonely life in a backyard hutch. Parents need to realize that pets are not disposable. Your responsibility to the rabbit does not end if the child tires of him."

Abel encourages parents to do their research before getting their child a bunny. "The Internet and book stores are full of wonderful (and not so wonderful!) information,” she says. “The best book about house rabbits is the House Rabbit Handbook by Marinell Harriman. Most other books are not written about pet rabbits.” She also recommends finding a qualified veterinarian and being prepared for a lot of bunny chewing and urinating. "However, bunny poop is extremely easy to clean," she says.
"I do not regret one bit getting Daniel a rabbit," says Stockton. "I do caution parents to teach their children how to handle, or not to handle, the rabbit. They are very fragile animals and need the same amount of care and attention as a dog or cat does."
With proper care and lots of love, rabbits can live eight to 10 years, sometimes even longer. If you're not willing to devote the time and attention to a bunny, and if you have small children, it might be best to opt for a stuffed bunny for Easter, instead of the real thing. The real thing is a 10-year commitment
Article By: Donna Smith

Story of Easter

2010-03-18T13:40:00.000-07:00

Easter is a time of springtime festivals. In Christian countries Easter is celebrated as the religious holiday commemorating the resurrection of Jesus Christ, the son of God. But the celebrations of Easter have many customs and legends that are pagan in origin and have nothing to do with Christianity.

Scholars, accepting the derivation proposed by the 8th-century English scholar St. Bede, believe the name Easter is thought to come from the Scandinavian "Ostra" and the Teutonic "Ostern" or "Eastre," both Goddesses of mythology signifying spring and fertility whose festival was celebrated on the day of the vernal equinox.

Traditions associated with the festival survive in the Easter rabbit, a symbol of fertility, and in colored easter eggs, originally painted with bright colors to represent the sunlight of spring, and used in Easter-egg rolling contests or given as gifts.

The Christian celebration of Easter embodies a number of converging traditions with emphasis on the relation of Easter to the Jewish festival of Passover, or Pesach, from which is derived Pasch, another name used by Europeans for Easter. Passover is an important feast in the Jewish calendar which is celebrated for 8 days and commemorates the flight and freedom of the Israelites from slavery in Egypt.

The early Christians, many of whom were of Jewish origin, were brought up in the Hebrew tradition and regarded Easter as a new feature of the Passover festival, a commemoration of the advent of the Messiah as foretold by the prophets. (For more information please visit our Passover celebration - Passover on the Net).

Easter is observed by the churches of the West on the first Sunday following the full moon that occurs on or following the spring equinox (March 21). So Easter became a "movable" feast which can occur as early as March 22 or as late as April 25.
Christian churches in the East which were closer to the birthplace of the new religion and in which old traditions were strong, observe Easter according to the date of the Passover festival.

Easter is at the end of the Lenten season, which covers a forty-six-day period that begins on Ash Wednesday and ends with Easter. The Lenten season itself comprises forty days, as the six Sundays in Lent are not actually a part of Lent. Sundays are considered a commemoration of Easter Sunday and have always been excluded from the Lenten fast. The Lenten season is a period of penitence in preparation for the highest festival of the church year, Easter.

Holy Week, the last week of Lent, begins with the observance of Palm Sunday. Palm Sunday takes its name from Jesus' triumphal entry into Jerusalem where the crowds laid palms at his feet. Holy Thursday commemorates the Last Supper, which was held the evening before the Crucifixion. Friday in Holy Week is the anniversary of the Crufixion, the day that Christ was crucified and died on the cross.

Holy week and the Lenten season end with Easter Sunday, the day of resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Jenniene

Easter Egg Ideas, Basket Ideas

2010-03-18T13:33:00.000-07:00

Natural Easter Egg Dyes

Spring Chicken Yellow

1 ts Tumeric
2/3 cups Boiling water
1/4 ts Vinegar
Wash eggs in mild soapy water to remove oily coating which could prevent dye from sticking. .Add tumeric to boiling water, stir until dissolved. Add vinegar. Simmer for 20 minutes

Easter Bunny Brown

1 tb Instant coffee; heaping
2/3 cup boiling water
1/2 ts Vinegar
Wash eggs in mild soapy water to remove oily coating which could prevent dye from sticking. Add coffee to boiling water, stir until dissolved. Add vinegar. Simmer for 20 minutes.

Seren"dip"ity

Orange: Onion skins
Red: beets, raspberries, cranberries, grape juice, or red onions
Yellow: yellow onion skins, Golden Delicious apple peels, orange peels, saffron, lemon peels, shredded carrot, celery seed, walnut shells
Light Blue: frozen blueberries, thawed
Pale Green: spinach
1/4 ts Vinegar

Wash eggs in mild soapy water to remove oily coating which could prevent dye from sticking. Boil eggs with one of the above-listed ingredients. Add 1/4 tsp vinegar to water. Simmer for 20 minutes.

Easter Lambs:

Trace the outline of your hand with fingers spread out onto black constructiion paper and then have a parent help you cut out the hands and turn them upside down so the four fingers look like the legs and the thumb looks like the head. Then glue cotton balls all over and glue small pieces of white or pink construction paper for the eyes, nose, mouth and toes.

Growing Easter Baskets

Take empty 1/2 gallon milk cartons and cut down to about 4" high. With the leftover carton, cut a handle to staple to the basket.

Cover with construction paper and decorate as desired.

Fill about 2/3 full with potting soil, then generously cover with grass seed.

Water daily; grass will appear in 4-6 days.

Fill easter basket with decorated eggs

Grean Threads

2010-03-01T17:25:00.000-08:00

If you are looking to update your family's wardrobe with some green threads, consider shopping at local secondhand stores and flea markets. If you prefer to buy something new, designers and stores with environment-friendly product lines include:

Apolis Activism
www.apolisactivism.com
Del Forte Denim
www.thegreenloop.com
Edun
www.edunonline.com
Fair Indigo
www.fairindigo.com
John Patrick Organic
www.johnpatrickorganic.com
Kee-Ka
www.kee-ka.com
Linda Loudermilk
Designer/retail stores
Lara Miller
Designer/retail stores
Loomstate
www.loomstate.org
Lotus Organics
www.lotusorganics.com
Loyale
www.loyaleclothing.com
Nau
www.nau.com
Noir
www.noir-illuminati2.com
Of the Earth
www.oftheearth.com
Patagonia
www.patagonia.com
SANS
www.sans.name
Simple Shoes
www.simpleshoes.com
Tom's Shoes
www.tomsshoes.com
Under the Canopy
www.underthecanopy.com
Under the Nile
www.underthenile.com
Wildlife Works
www.wildlifeworks.com

Enjoy Shopping At These Unique Stores and Stay Green
Jenniene

Valentine Day Games

2010-01-17T18:35:00.000-08:00

Who’s Your Mate?"

This game is similar to the Newlywed Game. Have one person from each couple leave the room. The host/hostess tailors some planned questions to the group and to certain couples. The other half of each couple stays in the room, and answers questions about their mate/date. They’re supposed to answer each question the way they think their mate/date would respond. They need to write each answer down, so that when their partner returns he/she can give their own answer to each question. Assign point values for each question that is a match. Then reverse roles of the couples for the next set of questions. The couple with the most points wins a prize. Make sure the prize is something they can share!

Love is…"

Write 25 romantic or sexy words on index cards, such as throbbing, lips, passion, candlelight, roses, chocolate, and so on. On another 25 index cards write some non-romantic images, such as ironing board, wallpaper paste, bikini wax, nose hair, motor oil, and so on. Stack the two piles separately, and distribute paper and pencil. Have each player draw a card from each pile. When everyone has 2 cards, ask
them to write a silly love poem using the two words or phrases they have drawn. For example: "Roses are red, they make me hot! Your eyes are sexy, your nose hairs are not!" Have them read their poems aloud one at a time.

Tie a Red Ribbon…"

This is a great way to get the party started if you have an even number of people at your party. Buy some red yarn or ribbon, and cut the ribbon/yarn up into various lengths (at least 100-400 uneven pieces). Put everyone into pairs, and have them search throughout the house to find as many pieces of ribbon/yarn as they possibly can. They must work with their partner to tie each piece of ribbon/yarn together to create one long piece of yarn/ribbon. Whoever has the longest piece of ribbon/yarn at the end of 10 minutes wins the game (It is OK if not every piece of ribbon is found).

Give Me Some Sugar"

Partners must face each other with their hands tied behind their backs. Blindfold each player, and then put a sugary treat in one partner’s mouth (it could be a snack cake, candy bar, doughnut, etc.). If the treat is wrapped, they must somehow unwrap the treat, and feed it to their partner. The couple who finishes the entire treat first, without using their hands wins a prize!

St. Valentine's Day History

2010-01-17T18:30:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day History
There are varying opinions as to the origin of Valentine's Day. Some experts state that it originated from St. Valentine, a Roman who was martyred for refusing to give up Christianity. He died on February 14, 269 A.D., the same day that had been devoted to love lotteries. Legend also says that St. Valentine left a farewell note for the jailer's daughter, who had become his friend, and signed it "From Your Valentine". Other aspects of the story say that Saint Valentine served as a priest at the temple during the reign of Emperor Claudius. Claudius then had Valentine jailed for defying him. In 496 A.D. Pope Gelasius set aside February 14 to honour St. Valentine.

Gradually, February 14 became the date for exchanging love messages and St. Valentine became the patron saint of lovers. The date was marked by sending poems and simple gifts such as flowers. There was often a social gathering or a ball.

In the United States, Miss Esther Howland is given credit for sending the first valentine cards. Commercial valentines were introduced in the 1800's and now the date is very commercialised. The town of Loveland, Colorado, does a large post office business around February 14. The spirit of good continues as valentines are sent out with sentimental verses and children exchange valentine cards at school.

Several Valentine Celebration Ideas For Your Sweetheart

2010-01-17T18:22:00.000-08:00

MY SPECIAL VALENTINE

Submitted by: Dianne Werthmuller

These are my ideas, I gave these to my husband for 3 different Valentines Days in past...

1) I found old games at garage sales (bought at next to nothing prices) and saved only the game pieces and cards (Monopoly was a score) I used the Monopoly "chance" cards - wrapped in red and listed for my hubby how he could exchange the card for, get out of an argument free, forgetfulness free card, I'm sorry card, etc. along with a handmade Valentine's card to him saying how I was glad I was married to him.

2) One year I made and laminated 2 ea. (2" x 3") cards printed with FREE PASS anytime, anywhere --were in small fine print and added this to my blond brownies in heart basket. He has a pass to anywhere anytime (one was in case he lost one of them.) He really liked that card!

3) I found a small red mail box, addressed it to him with the flag up, and made up my own coupons (free manicure, free facial, free foot rub, free I'm Sorry, free day with the guys, free wash and wax, free 'I don't want to have to go to ________, free to do what I want to do day,etc. He used them all up for his special occasions! And I got the benefits of all those coupons too, because I love doting on him!

You can be creative and cost-conscious at the same time.

VALENTINES IN A BOX

submitted by: Elizabeth Peeden

Last year at this time my fiancé was in the Army, stationed in Germany. With us being so far apart it was impossible to spend Valentines together, but I still wanted to do something special for him. The only problem was I could not come up with anything original. Sending him flowers seemed too trite, but what do you do for someone when they are so far away.

With Valentines fast approaching I was still out of ideas, so I went to the store hoping to come up with something to do for him. I kept thinking that things would be so much easier if he was here. Then it dawned on me that since he could not spend Valentines evening with me, I would send one to him.

So, I decided to send him a Valentines evening in a box. The first thing in the box was a note and a balloon explaining how much I hated being apart on this special day and if we could spend Valentines together this is how our evening would go. Then the next thing he came to in the box was 2 candles and a box of macaroni and cheese (candle light dinner).

The next item he came to was the movie "While you were Sleeping" with a note attached to it saying how we would spend the night cuddled in each others arms watching a movie. The last thing I placed in the box was the book Chicken Soup for the Couples Soul with a note explaining how we would end the evening cuddled up reminiscing over the "story" of how our love has grown. And of course I filled every empty space with Hershey Hugs & Kisses.

He absolutely loved the package when he got it!

12 DAYS OF ROMANCE

submitted by: Katie Sparrow

This year I decided to be a little creative and yet try to save a little money while doing something special for Valentine's. I am going to do the 12 Days of Valentine's. Starting 11 days before Valentine's, I will leave little gifts for my loved one to find.

Day 1 - one balloon that says "I Love You";

Day 2 - two coupons for various special favors or treats;

Day 3 - three love songs, some taped and some written words, that mean something special to us;

Day 4 - four love poems, I found on a postcard site and hand written;

Day 5 - five terms of endearment;

Day 6 - six chocolate candy hearts;

Day 7 - seven flowers;

Day 8 - eight heart shaped cookies;

Day 9 - nine message heart candies;

Day 10 - ten reasons (of the millions) why I love him;

Day 11 - eleven Hershey's hugs and kisses;

Day 12 (Valentine's) - twelve ways to say "I Love You", languages.

Chocolate Heart Candy

2010-01-17T18:14:00.000-08:00

What you'll need:

Plastic heart-shaped candy mold
Red, white and cocoa colored candy melts
Sandwich bags (zipper, not pleated)
Scissors
Spoon
Wax paper
Plate
Wooden skewer or clean craft paint brush
How to make it:
Put a handful of candy melts into an open zipper sandwich bag.
Microwave candy in bag for 30-40 seconds or until melted.
Cut one corner of the bag with scissors to squeeze melted candy through.
Caution: Bag may be hot, so use paper towel or a pot holder to handle it.
Gently squeeze chocolate out of bag and into the molds.
Tap the side of the mold tray to knock out any air bubbles and flatten chocolate.
Place in refrigerator until set.
Pop out of molds and serve.
Decorating

Polka dots - Use the flat end of a wooden skewer or a clean craft paint brush to dip into melted chocolate. Dot onto molds, then refrigerate. Remove mold from refrigerator when solid, then add contrasting color according to directions above.

Drizzles - Use a spoon to drizzle melted chocolate across the molds by sweeping a spoon back and forth and allowing chocolate to fall in streams. Refrigerate until solid. Add contrasting color according to directions above.

3D Drizzles - Use the spoon method above, however this time drizzle the chocolate over solid candy that you have already made and let set, rather than drizzling into the molds.

Tips:
Candy molds can be found at discount department and craft supply stores in the craft section near the cake decorating supplies. They look much like a muffin tin, though much smaller and made from clear plastic.
You can use chocolate chips instead of candy melts and use food coloring to change or tint white chocolate.
Be careful when dealing with melted chocolate as it can be very hot. Always supervise children closely when making anything in the kitchen.

Christmas Games For Home & Office

2009-12-18T15:44:00.000-08:00

Unwrap the Gift Game / Pass the Parcel
Supplies: Gift items, wrapping paper, tape, music - that can be turned on and off

This gift has layer and layers of wrapping paper but who will be the lucky person to unwrap the last layer and win the gift! This hot potato type game has variations that can make each unwrapping entertaining.

Wrap a gift or gifts if several groups in several layers of wrapping paper. The number of layers depends on how long you want the game to last, plus the more people the more layers.
Have everyone sit in a circle and give your group / groups a gift and tell them when you turn on the music to pass the gift in one direction and when you turn off the music who ever has the gift gets to take off ONE layer of wrapping paper, continue this until the last layer of paper is taken off and whoever has the gift unwrapped gets to keep it.
Thanks Elaine

Variation
Place a slip of paper in between each wrapping. On each piece of paper will be and Action / Challenge or Prize.

Examples:
Action: Hop on one foot 20 times, Blow up a balloon and pop it, etc… something silly
Prize: Include 1 small prize in 4 or 5 wraps – Could be a candy bar or dollar store gift.

By adding these twists guests don’t know whether they want the gift or not! We recommend you randomly add in these pieces of paper so you don’t even know what is next. Then it is a surprise for everyone.

Dice Doubles - Unwrap the Gift Game
Supplies: Gift, dice, various wrapping paper, tape, scissors

Announce that you are going to play a game where you upwrap a gift sounds simple enough, then tell after everyone is seated and ready to go place a set of oven mitts next to the gift. Now it gets a little harder!

Get a gift or gift certificate and place in a solid box. We used a hard jewelry case but most boxes will do.
Then wrap the gift with paper, then masking tape, paper, masking tape, paper etc… The more layers, the harder the game will be to play and the more interesting.

Sit everyone in a circle and announce how the game is played.
- Each player takes a turn at rolling 2 dice.
- The first person to roll doubles goes to the center of the circle put on the oven mitts/gloves and then starts unwrapping the gift with their hands. They can not use their teeth.
- While the person is working on trying to unwap the gift, the dice continue to be rolled and passed until the next person rolls the dice and yells, “Stop unwrapping”.
- At that point the person in the middle must put down the gift, take off the oven mitts/gloves and return to their seat. The next person now puts on the mitts and works to unwrap the gift.

The dice rolling and unwrapping continues until someone finally gets through all the layers of wrapping paper and tape and holds up the gift. Then the gift is theirs to keep.

Hint - to build the excitement, do not tell players that you used masking tape and several layers of paper.

Dice Game Variation:
Have contestants wear more clothes hat, scarf, and gloves, this just adds more prep time.
Instead of changing places every time doubles are rolled, change to be every time double sixes or ones are rolled.

Christmas Stocking Guessing Game
Supplies: Oversized stocking, holiday objects, pen and paper
ShareThis- Email this Game to Friend! or Click to Bookmark

Can your guests figure out what Holiday objects are in the stocking? Well pass around a Christmas stocking filled with Holiday items and see how many they can identify.

You take a new large Christmas stocking. Then you put objects, that you see or use around Christmas time, into the stocking. If you have more than one stocking make sure you put the same things in each Christmas stocking.

Consider things like holly, scotch tape, ornament, pine cone, etc. Make sure you put about 20 to 25 different objects in. Tie a ribbon or rope around the opening to make sure nobody peeks.

Give everyone a piece of paper and pass the Christmas stocking or stockings around at your party and tell them how many objects there are in the stocking and have them write down all they can feel. Two stockings just make the game go a little faster. The person that correctly guesses the most objects in the sock is the winner.
Thanks, Patsy

Variation
instead of one large stocking. Have lots of stockings with 1 item in each. Then number the Christmas stocking and have a list of numbers on a piece of paper. Then as the kids check each stocking they can write down what they think is in it. The child with the most correct wins.

Santa’s Christmas Puzzle Mystery
Supplies: Camera, photos, planning and craft supplies
ShareThis- Email this Game to Friend! or Click to Bookmark

This is a Christmas scavenger hunt type game where you challenge teams (tables) or individuals to find out where Santa’s elves have hidden the toys / Christmas gifts. First you set the stage by sharing the Santa doesn’t know where the gifts are and needs help else there may not be a Christmas.

The good news is the elves had left clues so they would remember where the toys are, but one of our favorite elves Patty Puzzle thought they were toys and cut them all up! Now we need your help to find out where the toys are.

Now you give out envelopes with a puzzle to each team. Once the puzzle is finished it should give a hint to where the toys / gifts are. Once completed the team can go and find the gifts. Note: Each team can be sent to a different location if everyone gets a gift, this is a fun way to play.

You can play this as the first team to find the gifts wins or maybe someone from that team has a shot to win a bigger prize. (Vary as needed.)

If playing with kids, you can set this up as a scavenger hunt and have several photo puzzle clues. So one puzzle clue resolved leads to another puzzle clue. This will keep the kids busy and once the gifts are found, there would be a gift for each child.

So How to Prep for the Game:
1. Plan where to hide the gifts first and then take photos of the hiding place. Helps to have 1 or 2 gifts in the photograph place have a green glove on so it has an elf touch to it.

2. Have photos printed and choose 8 x 10 or larger for groups. You can do small if for just kids. Now you need cut up the photos into squares. (1, 1.5 or 2 inch blocks) and place into an envelope. If you want to make it really tricky turn the photo into a real puzzle, this is great for office events because it is a huge challenge.

3. Now just decide whether you are solving one puzzle or if you are creating a photo scavenger hunt.

4. Make sure you place presents at the hiding place. If you want have the toys in a sack and have whoever finds it to bring it to Santa to get a reward and then Santa can give a special gift to those that find the gifts and then hand out the rest.

This Christmas game is easily adaptable for office parties, small gatherings where you have kids or it can be a fun indoor event on the weekend for families.
A Party Game Ideas Original by Sarah

Increase the challenge, Create a real puzzle for your event.

Holiday Office Guess Games
ShareThis- Email this Game to Friend! or Click to Bookmark

Supplies: Varies by game - Childhood photos, item from desk, time to get everything, pen and paper

How well do you know co-workers and could you match up an item from their desk to them or would you be able to identify who is in the childhood photo? Two office guess games

1) Our law firm had a Christmas party last year. Our accountant was able to get childhood photos of each person who worked in the firm from spouses, family members, significant others, etc. It was a secret!!!

At the party, she posted each picture on a huge white poster board with a number under each. Each member of the firm had to write down who they thought each person was. It was great fun!

2) The day before our Christmas party, our accountant secretly went around to each person's desk in the firm and snatched one somewhat 'personal' item off of their desk. At the party, she laid everything out on a table, each assigned with a number. Everyone had to figure out which item came from whose desk!

It is interesting to see who knows what is on other people’s desks.

Christmas Carol Pictionary Relay
Supplies: List of Christmas Carols, paper and pen and people willing to sing
ShareThis- Email this Game to Friend! or Click to Bookmark

Team member race to receive the name of a Christmas Carol which they must get their team to recognize and then sing. The first team to have all team members complete the task wins.

Based on the number of Christmas Carols you come up with not all players may get a chance to draw out the name of a song. The goal is however that everyone would have a turn. (Adjust game as needed.)

Divide group into teams. Each team sends one person up to the Gamemaster / Host who gives them the name of a Christmas carol. Then the person returns to group and in the manner of Pictionary tries to get the group to guess the name of the carol by DRAWING ONLY.

As soon as the group knows the song, they must sing it as a group until the Gamemaster / Host gives the thumbs up sign (10 – 20 seconds). Once they get the thumbs up, the team sends a new person for another song. Play continues until one group completes all their songs.

Here are some Christmas Carols to get started. Remember there can not be any duplicate carols.
Jingle Bells
Deck the Halls
Here Comes Santa Claus
Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer
Silent Night
Joy to the World
Away In a Manger
We Wish You A Merry Christmas
Up On the Housetop

Wedding Locations In Redmond, OR.

2009-12-18T15:30:00.000-08:00

There are more locations than these five to have a Wedding, your imagination can be limitless, however, these are good locations for our locals. Don't forget to think about Parks, Homes, Church Halls, Wineries, Restuarants, Resorts, Hotels etc.

Redmond has 5 different wedding locations to choose from. Whether planning your wedding in a church, chapel, hotel, mansion, estate, or outdoor venue, Redmond has the perfect place for your wedding ceremony or wedding reception. Make sure to pick a wedding site that has all the right meeting space for your special day. Book your wedding reception site in advance as well; if you wait, it may not be available when you need it.

Think about what the wedding venue has to offer and what you have always wanted to make an intimate setting to begin your marriage. Many wedding halls include a gazebo, a courtyard, a garden, and sometimes even a place to host your rehearsal dinner. Couples need to be very careful in selecting vendors such as caterers and photographers; often you will want a backup just in case.

If you are the bride and groom, taking care of all these details ahead of time will help you enjoy your wedding and get you off to the honeymoon without a care in the world!

River Run Event Center
1730 Blue Heron Dr
Redmond, OR
4 Event Spaces (Max Cap: 225)
Contact

The Historic Redmond Church
641 Sw Cascade Ave
Redmond, OR
2 Event Spaces (Max Cap: 250)
Contact

Bronco Billy's Ranch Grill
190 Se Cascade Ave
Redmond, OR
2 Event Spaces (Max Cap: 100)
Contact

The Gardens At Flying Diamond
4691 Sw Helmholtz Way
Redmond, OR
1 Event Space
Contact

Incredible Events
3873 Nw 21st St
Redmond, OR
1 Event Space
Contact

Home Make Candy Cane Ornament

2009-12-16T16:09:00.000-08:00

Neat twist on a classic, these canes are virtually indestructible (and they make excellent gifts).

Materials
2 skeins of DMC Pearl Cotton, one red and one white
Scissors
Red pipe cleaners
1/2" to 5/8" ribbon

Instructions
Open a skein of cotton and snip the loop at each end so you have two bunches; repeat with the other skein. Then take one red bunch and one white bunch and tie them together into a single knot around the end of a pipe cleaner.

To make the stripes, twist the two colors around the pipe cleaner and knot the ends together around the other end. Trim the cotton at both ends and trim the pipe cleaner if need be.

Bend into a candy cane shape and adorn with a ribbon bow.

Tips: These canes were created with fine DMC Pearl Cotton, but younger kids may have an easier time with chenille yarn or cord.

A Twist On Christmas Trees

2009-12-16T16:04:00.000-08:00

Fake or real? The sight of all of those Christmas trees tossed out to the curb, once the new year dawns, has always made me wonder whether an artificial tree wouldn't be more eco-friendly.

The Original Living Christmas Tree Company, based in Portland, Ore.,began renting trees in 1992 and other companies and non-profit groups have since joined the business.
CAPTIONOriginal Living Christmas Tree CompanyNow comes what may be the perfect solution: renting a live potted tree. This isn't a new idea, but it's one that is catching on in the United States and abroad.

In Portland, Ore. (no surprise there!) in 1992, the Original Living Christmas Tree Company began renting out live trees, picking them up after the holiday and replanting them in watersheds across the Pacific Northwest.

Since then, companies or non-profit groups in San Diego (adoptachristmastree.com), San Francisco (fuf.com) and Vancouver, British Columbia, (evergrowchristmastrees.ca) have also started offering this service. I've noticed quite a few in the United Kingdom as well.

"It's a concept whose time has come," says the website of Rent A Living Christmas Tree, which began this year to deliver pot-grown pine, cedar, redwood and cypress trees along California's central coast. By planting them after the holidays, it says, "you will be helping the environment."

In Portland, Ore., the Original Living Christmas Tree Company delivers trees, picks them up after the holidays and replants them.
CAPTIONOrginal Living Christmas Tree CompanyThe Vancouver company replants the trees year after year. Its website says a live potted tree may not be right for everyone. It notes that the trees are natural, so they may not appear "perfect," and as live plants, they require basic care. It cites, however, five reasons for renting a live tree:

It's alive. The trees keep on growing. You can even request to have your tree back the following year. When your tree becomes too big to live in its pot, it will be planted outside where it can continue to grow, sequestering carbon and converting greenhouse gases to life-giving oxygen.
Ultimate convenience. Tree delivery and pick-up to and from your living room or business. It's that simple. Avoid a trip across town and the hassle of wrestling a tree to the roof of your car.
Locally grown. These truly are 'green' Christmas trees as minimal energy is used to bring your environmentally friendly tree to you.
No mess. Unlike cut trees, live trees are not a significant fire hazard. Consider them like a house plant: alive and actively transpiring. All you need to do is to make sure your tree gets water.
Forget that old tree stand. The sturdy pots our trees grow in negate any need for a stand or support. Your tree is ready to decorate as soon as it is set down on your living room floor.
So how much does this eco-friendly service cost? If you live in the Portland area, the Original Living Christmas Tree Company charges $80 to deliver and pick up the tree. It offers several different types of trees, ranging from 5 to 7 feet tall.

For those who don't live in an area with such a service, the Portland company encourages people to buy a potted tree and if you don't want to plant it outside yourself, donate it to your local parks department or a landscaper who will. Or, if you're passionate about the idea, it recommends you consider starting your own service

Great Article and Great Idea!
Let's Go Green
Jenniene

A Twist On Christmas Trees

2009-12-16T15:59:00.000-08:00

Holiday Safety Tips for Pets:

2009-12-10T16:09:00.000-08:00

New Year's brings in a brand new year filled with the promise of hope, prosperity, health, and happiness. But be alert to any pet hazards such as fun noise-makers and confetti which can very easily pose a serious threat to your pets' sense of well-being and health. Noise-makers can frighten your pet causing the pet to bolt out an open door window, or leap to a precarious area in search of safety. Confetti can be ingested, wreaking havoc to the digestive tract.

Caution: Those adorable holiday costumes for your pets may be cute at get-togethers or in family photos, but pet owners should be wary of costumes which have rubber bands to keep them securely in place on the pet. If rubber bands are accidentally left on the pet after the fun of dressing up is over, the pet could chew off and swallow them, causing choking and/or intestinal injuries. And, too, the bands can become embedded into the pet's flesh.

Valentine's Day is a day of romance and love, renewing old friendships and making new. Please don't forget the hidden dangers to your pets in those wonderful boxes of candy gifts and lovely bouquets of flowers your beloved one gives you. Check here for a listing of toxic and non-toxic plants.

Don't leave the candies out - most animals love the sweet taste, especially chocolate. Chocolate is often fatal to animals, especially cats, if consumed in a large quantity and/or over a period of time.

Easter has its hazards of pets nibbling the colorful Easter "grass" used in baskets and other decorating. The goodies tucked in the baskets can create havoc to a pet's digestive system as well - chocolates, teeny Easter toys, plastic items, etc.

St. Patrick's Day brings the jolly Irish out in us all. Remember during your festivities, animals and alcohol DON'T mix. Alcoholic beverages are toxic to our pets.

July the Fourth in the United States brings picnics, backyard cookouts, family gatherings, and the sense of pride to be living in a free country with so many privileges most other countries aren't able to enjoy. But for our pets, the Fourth is also a day of terrible mishaps and even abuse related to fireworks. Please keep your pets indoors during the holiday and watch traffic at doorways. The sudden loud noises and flashing colors can cause your pet to run away in terror. A carelessly thrown firecracker or other firework could result in a disfiguring or maiming tragedy. And as old as time, there's always the evil animal abuser who gets his thrills from harming those who are smaller, weaker and totally defenseless.

Make sure all pets are inside during the night the youngsters are Halloween trick'r-treating, especially black pets, to avoid the heartbreak of hideous "pranks." In fact, during the entire month of October, all black pets should be kept indoors. The safest thing for both you and your animals is to keep them indoors unless you are supervising their outdoor activities with them on a leash.

On the night of Halloween trick'r-treating, keep your pets away from the doors leading to the outside. Place them in a secluded room away from the noise and activity of the trick'r-treaters. As you are greeting your guests, the animal could become frightened and make a rush for the door as you are handing out the treats.

The foil wraps on candies can cause internal injuries if swallowed - the foil can be like a razor as it is swallowed and ingested. Keep all candies and their wrappers in a secured place.

Other holiday treats, alcoholic beverages, rich, fatty food scraps and bones can be harmful or toxic to pets. Keep your pet on his regular diet and caution visitors against giving your pet "special treats."

Supervise all candles - pets are attracted to the bright "lights" in a darkened room. Not only could they receive serious burns, but they could knock the candles over, spilling hot wax onto furniture and carpeting. Don't leave candles unattended for their sake and for the obvious fire hazards.

All other decorations should be carefully placed so that the pets can't pull or scratch off any small pieces to swallow.

Cover or tack down electrical cords.

Pets' highly sensitive noses pick up scents before humans can. Therefore, don't be surprised when Fluffy and Fido are underfoot in the kitchen while Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday goodies are being prepared. Watch those hot containers filled with turkey and ham drippings. The pets can easily tip them over causing severe scalding and burns to themselves.

Don't feed pets the cooled drippings either. Human seasonings aren't good for pets, plus the fact that the rich stock and drippings can easily upset pets' digestive systems.

Though it's so tempting, don't give your pet large quantities of cooked turkey and ham during the holidays. Again, human food is too rich; overfeeding of human food can cause additional health problems and feeding human food will often lead to unsatisfactory eating habits when given pet food at their regular mealtimes. Consumption of human food can also result in pitiful begging, an aggravating habit hard to break, when the family sits down for meals.

BONES ARE DANGEROUS! Please, please don't feed your pets bones, especially poultry bones. Poultry bones splinter easily - each year thousands of pets are treated for consumption of splintered bones, causing pain and sometimes death.

Increased activity and visitors during the winter holiday season can upset your pet's routine. Try to keep your pet on his regular schedule for feeding and exercise and be sure the pet gets plenty of love.

If you are planning to take your pet with you when visiting friends and relatives during the holidays, be sure to contact them in advance to find out if your pet is welcome. Because of the excitement during the holidays, it might be best for you and your pet to board your pet or hire a reputable pet sitter.

The lovely bubbling holiday lights are moderate to lethal toxicity, depending on the amount of fluid (methylene chloride) inhaled or ingested.

Please do not use angelhair (spun glass) - low toxicity; can cause irritation of the eyes, skin and gastrointestinal tract. Artificial snow and snow flock also has low toxicity - dry particles are inert; however, toxicity from inhalation can occur if spayed directly in the mouth.

Hang your treasured ornaments higher on the Christmas tree. Use wooden, medal, resin-cast or the like on the lower branches in case curious little paws want to play with bright and colorful ornaments. Tinsel isn't toxic, but if ingested, intestinal obstruction and choking are potential problems...please don't use.

The beauty of the fireplace colors (fire salts) is breath-taking on a cold winter's evening - moderate toxicity; symptoms are gastrointestinal irritation with vomiting and a variety of other manifestations, including convulsions.

Resist the temptation to tie ribbons around pets necks for the holidays. The pets can tighten ribbons resulting in choking or hang themselves if the ribbon is caught on an object.

Keep gift ribbons and bows out of sight to prevent chewing and swallowing.

Replace metal ornament hooks with tightly knotted fabric 1/4 inch ribbons, light-weight twine or yarn to slip easily over the branches of the tree.

Keep all pets securely indoors during firework displays. The frightening noise and the danger of exploding fireworks are hazardous to your pet.

A number of Christmas season plants are poisonous to pets if nibbled or eaten: ivy - moderate to very toxic, all parts; holly - moderate to very toxic, especially the berries and leaves; mistletoe - very toxic, all parts, especially the berries; Christmas greens such as balsam, juniper, cedar, pine and fir - all parts have a low level of toxicity; hibiscus - may cause vomiting or bloody diarrhea if ingested; and poinsettias - leaves and stems low in toxicity. This is not a conclusive listing...there are many more toxic plants. An additional listing of both non and toxic plants can be located here. It's wise to keep plants out of your pets' and children's reach.

Please do not give any animal or any pet of any age as Easter and Christmas gifts. Remember the first weeks of a new life or a sudden change in an adult pet is extremely traumatic for them. Instead, give gifts of pet supplies, food, and accessories. Then after the hustle and bustle of the holidays, the loved one can make a selection of the selected pet of their choice to bring home to peace and quiet for the pet. This will also provide the happy new pet owner time to spend with his/her new life-time commitment. Follow this link and this one for more details.

For those animal lovers who have allergies or feel that a house pet would be too much due to other health reasons or too long hours and hectic schedules of secular work, give a gift of sponsorship at a no-kill shelter. There are many needy animals needing additional care. One such organization is PetRescue.com, Inc. - Sponsor A Pet. Great inexpensive gift that will warm hearts through-out the year!

IMPORTANT: The time frame of six to eight weeks before Halloween each year is extremely dangerous for all animals, but especially so for cats ... even more frighteningly dangerous should your cat be black. Please, PLEASE take those few moments each day taking additional precautions to make sure your cat(s) or other pet(s) is/are safe during this holiday season. Follow and promote safety precautions for animals, especially black cats, during the Halloween season and throughout the year.

Have a Green Christmas

2009-12-06T16:20:00.000-08:00

During the season of celebration we need to show extra care for the environment.

Christmas does not have to be a burden on the environment. With a little effort and imagination, we can reduce the environmental impact of the holiday season.
Here are some ideas to help celebrate the season while caring for the earth.

The link below has many great Green alternatives and are easy and cost less.

http://www.eartheasy.com/give_sustainchristmas.htm

Hope this is helpful and enjoy!
Jenniene

63 Gift Ideas for Under $10 - For Any Occasion of the Year!

2009-12-02T16:47:00.000-08:00

In these economical times we should think of not how much we spend, but how well we spend our dollar on gifts for our loved ones.

These frugal gifts are great for any occasion all throughout the year, including Christmas, birthdays, anniversaries, Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, Father's Day, end-of-school teacher gifts and more. They also make great hostess gifts during the holidays.

There are hundreds of great gifts that can be purchased or made by hand for under $10, gifts that are both thoughtful and frugal at the same time. Put them in an inexpensive basket or wrap them with a pretty ribbon and you'll truly have a beautiful gift--without breaking the bank!

I know you've probably heard it before but it's really true that you don't have to spend a lot of money to find that perfect gift for someone. Just be sure to put some time and thought into it and your gift will be well received...

Our loved ones probably appreciate our time and love more than anything.

Here's a few of my favorite inexpensive gift ideas...

1. Gourmet coffees with a personal coffee cup
2. Pound of pistachios
3. Child's artwork, framed
4. Journal with special inscription inside
5. Teacup with box of herbal tea
6. Deck of cards and book of card game rules
7. Homemade cocoa mix in a pretty jar
8. Collage of special photos
9. Gel pens and pretty stationary
10. Bottle of sparkling cider
11. Home baked bread, include recipe
12. Disposable camera or rolls of film
13. Basket filled with deli cheese and fruit
14. Craft supplies
15. Holiday serving bowl or platter
16. Pretty basket filled with special jams or mustard's
17. Decorative napkins and napkin rings
18. Fancy chocolate bars tied with a ribbon
19. Gardening gloves with a plant or flower seeds
20. Photo album, hand decorated is even better
21. Makeup tote
22. Prepaid photo developing envelopes
23. Homemade cookie mix with instructions for baking
24. Variety of bread mixes
25. Special coffee cup filled with candy
26. Fancy magazines tied together with a pretty ribbon
27. Gourmet popcorn and flavored oil
28. Locally made barbeque's or steak sauce with basting brush
29. Pancake or waffle mix and a bottle of real maple syrup
30. Movie theater gift certificates
31. Board games
32. Jar of sour wood or pure honey with biscuit mix
33. Note cards and book of stamps
34. Picture frames, buy them on sale!
35. Specialty cookbook
36. Pretty glass jar filled with candy
37. Collectible sports cards
38. Muffin mixes with muffin pan
39. Books, there are still a few for under $10
40. Set of dish towels and dish cloths
41. Nail polish kit
42. Pretty night shirt
43. Basket filled with kitchen gadgets
44. Video rental gift certificates
45. Pepper mill and fresh peppercorns
46. Handwritten copies of your favorite recipes
47. For the pets, gourmet dog biscuits or cat treats
48. Baking pans and supplies
49. Prepaid long distance phone cards
50. Small clock or radio
51. Pretty box for keepsakes
52. Colorful Post-It notepads
53. Address book
54. Christmas ornaments
55. Puzzles
56. Blank video or cassette tapes
57. Sewing supplies
58. Flashlight with batteries
59. Favorite quote embroidered on a nice handkerchief
60. Makeup brush set
61. Expensive socks, still under $10
62. Special soaps and bath puff
63. and don't forget my absolute favorite... home baked cookies!

Recipes You Can Make Ahead Of Time

2009-11-20T14:38:00.000-08:00

Bacon Wrapped Pork Medallions
A recipe you can make ahead of time and warm up when the time is right!
By: Eve Marie
"This is variation of a recipe my mother used to make with my own spin on the seasonings! Also, one of our favorites to enjoy around the holidays.
A pinch more here, a dash more there...Putting your own twist on recipe is easy!
Prep Time:
10 MinCook Time:
30 MinReady In:
40 Min
Servings
Original Recipe Yield 4 servings
Ingredients
8 slices bacon
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon seasoned salt
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 pounds pork tenderloin
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions
1.Preheat an oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
2.Place the bacon in a large, oven-safe skillet, and cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until lightly browned and still flexible, 6 to 7 minutes. Drain the bacon slices on a paper towel-lined plate. Remove any excess bacon grease from the skillet. Combine garlic powder, seasoning salt, basil, and oregano in a small bowl. Set aside.
3.Wrap the pork tenderloin with the bacon strips securing with 1 or 2 toothpicks per strip of bacon. Slice the tenderloin between each bacon strip to create the medallions. Dip both sides of the medallions in seasoning mix. Melt butter and oil together in the same skillet over medium-high heat. Cook each medallion for 4 minutes on each side.
4.Place skillet into the preheated oven and bake until the pork is no longer pink in the center, 17 to 20 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read 160 degrees F (70 degrees C).

Glazed Apple Cream Pie By: Kathy
"A friend who NEVER bakes gave me this recipe recently. I think she's made this pie once a week for the past 6 weeks now!
Prep Time:
15 MinCook Time:
45 MinReady In:
3 Hrs
Servings
Original Recipe Yield 1 - 9 inch pie
Ingredients
1/2 cup white sugar
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup butter
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tart apples - peeled, cored and sliced
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 (15 ounce) package pastry for double-crust pie
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
1 tablespoon milk
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon butter, softened
Directions
1.In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup milk, 1/2 cup cream, and 1/4 cup butter. Heat until butter is melted, stirring occasionally. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, 2 tablespoons milk, and vanilla; stir into saucepan. Cook until thickened, stirring constantly. Remove from heat, and set aside to cool slightly.
2.Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). In a medium bowl, combine the apples, flour, and cinnamon. Mix well.
3.Line a 9 inch pie pan with pie dough. Pour thickened filling mixture into pastry-lined pie pan. Arrange apple mixture evenly over filling. Top with second crust, seal and flute the edges. Cut slits in top crust.
4.Bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and apples are tender. Cool for at least 30 minutes.
5.In small bowl, combine confectioners' sugar, 1 tablespoon milk, 1/4 teaspoon vanilla, and 1 tablespoon softened butter. Blend until smooth; pour evenly over warm pie. Refrigerate for AT LEAST 1 1/2 hours before serving (longer is better).

How to Plan Thanksgiving Dinner

2009-11-06T13:30:00.000-08:00

Make the guest list
It the first thing to be done while you plan Thanksgiving dinner because the number of members and their choice need to be kept in mind before deciding the menu.

Decide the menu
Thanksgiving dinner include appetizers, main course, side dishes, desserts and wine. To prepare these dishes it is important that you know what are the ingredients and the method. Choose dishes, which are easy to make, and the ones that you are confident of making. Plan thanksgiving dinner menu in advance so that you have the idea about the dinnerware needed. Make sure that for vegetarian guests there are some good vegetarian dishes too.

Make a List of thing you need
Now, prepare a list of ingredients that you will need to prepare the dinner. Go according to the menu. Make sure that you are not missing out on anything. Check all the ingredients that are already there in the kitchen.

Invite your friends
Now, it is the time to invite your friends. You call make a call to them or write to them. This will help you to know how many people are sure of coming. There might be a few who might be doubtful.

Set the table
When you know the menu, decide on the table setting. Choose wine glasses, dinnerware, table cover, table decoration, etc. Set the table according to the number of people and the dishes. There might be things that you will have to buy like napkins, table cover etc.

Check your appliances
Thermometer, oven, blender etc are generally used so make sure they are clean and ready to use. Clean your refrigerator and make space for the Thanksgiving dishes. You should have all the utensils ready.

Cleaning and decoration
You can start cleaning your house three weeks before Thanksgiving, as it will dilute the stress for Christmas and New Year cleaning also. Buy new decorations for the house. You can decorate the house a week before Thanksgiving so that you can get the feel of the occasion.

Prepare some dishes in advance
It is one of the most important works which needs perfect timing. For this follow this Thanksgiving dinner plan -

One month before the dinner - Buy a turkey according to the number of guests. Freeze it and prepare the stock for gravy.
Two weeks before the dinner - Make cheesecakes and freeze. Prepare dough for the crust of the pie, roll and make the crust and freeze. Prepare stuffing for the turkey.
Within one week of the dinner - Prepare cranberry sauce, defrost the turkey, and prepare other dishes. Thaw the piecrust and cheesecake and refrigerate.
One day before the dinner - Make the pie, chop vegetables and prepare sweet potatoes.
Day of the dinner - Roast the turkey, cut salads, and prepare appetizers and little other things that need to be done.
I hope that these tips on how to plan the thanksgiving dinner are really helpful to you. So go ahead and throw a party for your loved one with a perfect Thanksgiving plan.

Why A Wedding Video

2009-10-30T16:48:00.000-07:00

A wedding video is more than a luxury. The day is going to be a blur for you. Wedding videography is the best documentation of your day. A professional wedding videographer captures everything that happens in your wedding. It’s not like looking at a picture. Memories fade.

After your wedding is all done and your friends and relative’s have gone home, you have your wedding video to relive that special day. You hear the laughter, you see how your parents react to you saying “I do”, you see how your future husband teared up when he saw you walking down the aisle. You hadn’t noticed that. You were too busy trying not to cry and trying not to trip. You watch your friends and family having fun.

You don’t even remember seeing some of them at your wedding. You see the the flower girl going the wrong way down the aisle. Now you know why you heard laughing while you were waiting nervously in the hall. These memories are precious and once it’s over, it’s over. There is no going back.

Professional Videographers seem to pricey?

If you are planning on putting a tripod up at your wedding, here are some things to consider. Full bright sunlight, crying baby, coughing, dark ceremony, lots of beams in the reception hall. Editing itself is an art form both with the video and the audio side (take the hours you filmed and at least triple it for editing). You might not think of this but professional videographers have dealt with these issues and know how to make your wedding video look and hear like you never had any of those obstacles. You are not going to be able to see yourself and your fiancee’s expressions or really hear your voices with one tripod set up in the back of your wedding venue. Wedding videographers not only document your day, but create a wedding video that even strangers would want to watch over and over again. When choosing a professional, ask questions like how many cameras do they use during the ceremony? Do they mike up the pastor and your future husband? Do they charge extra for High Definition filming?

Watch a wedding video done by a professional wedding videographer and you will see just like wedding photography it is an investment. Oregon is lucky to have such top videographers. We are all striving to perfect our art and story telling and every year we are inspired by what fellow videographers are creating and what we have created. Oregon wedding videographers are in the forefront of recreating what it means to having a wedding film. A wedding video is an heirloom you can show your children or future children, and they can show their children. We often hear from our brides and grooms that it was the best investment they made on their wedding day.

Halloween Ideas For Your Party

2009-10-27T16:22:00.000-07:00

Here is a link that will give you all the ideas you need for your event. Have fun and be safe!

Jenniene

http://www.halloween-online.com/

Finding Everything You Need In One Place

2009-10-14T12:48:00.000-07:00

Accounting Acne Adsense Advertising Aerobics Affiliate

Alternative Articles Attraction Auctions Audio-streaming

Auto-care Auto-parts Autoresponder Aviation

( B )

Babies-toddler Baby Bankruptcy Bathroom Beauty

Bedroom Blogging Body-building Book-marketing

Book-review Branding Breast-cancer Broadband Internet

Business-loan Business-plan Business

( c )

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Career Cars Casino Cell-phone Cgi-bin

Chat Christmas Claims Coaching Coffee

College-university Computer-pc-tips Cooking-tips Cooking

Copywriting Cosmetics Craft Creative-writing Credit-cards

Credit-repair Credit Currency-trading

( D )

Data-recovery Dating Debt-relief Diabetics Diet

Digital-camera Diving Divorce Domain Driving-tips

( E )

Ebay Ebook Ecommerce Email-marketing Emarketing

Essay Ezine

( F )

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( G )

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( H )

Hair-loss Hair Hdtv Health-insurance Heart-disease

Hobbies Holiday Home-business Home-improvement

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( I )

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( J )

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( K )

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( L )

Ladies-accessories Lawyer Lcd-plasma Legal

Life-insurance Lingerie Love

( M )

Mailing-list Make-money Mortgage Mp3 Music

( N )

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( O )

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( P )

Paid-survey Pc-games Perfume Personal-injury Ppc

Pregnancy Publishing

( R )

Real-estate Recipe Recreation Relationship Resume

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( S )

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Smoking Software Spam-blocking Sports Spyware

Stress

( T )

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( V )

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( W )

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Wedding Weight Wine Women Writng-tips

Choosing Fall Wedding Colors

2009-10-03T10:52:00.000-07:00

Some of the most common colors used for fall weddings include:
Rich red

Burgandy
Rust
Sage Green
Bronze
Gold
Copper
Wheat
Off-white
Pumpkin
Taupe
Mocha
Marigold
Fall is a season of change, so it's difficult to pick a single color palette. Instead, you can choose from several groups of colors depending upon whether it's early fall, mid-fall, or late fall. There's a wide range of vibrant colors, muted tones, and even metallic shades that symbolize the season beautifully.
Early Fall
In the early fall, the sun is still vibrant and the colors of the harvest are rich and beautiful. If you're getting married in September or early October, the best colors to use are reds (from apple to burgundy), pumpkin, marigold, green, and cream.
Apple Red
It seems that no matter what the season, apple red is always right for the occasion. Fall weddings are no exception, as juicy red apples are a symbol of the fall harvest. You can use red as a main color or just as an accent, but it's a surefire way to liven up your color scheme.
Bright and Warm
Colors like marigold and green make perfect fall wedding colors because they embody the bright warmth of the season without overwhelming the senses. In this way, they're just like fall—it's bright, warm, and not overdone. It's simply, classically beautiful.
Mid-Fall
Getting married in mid-to-late October or early November? Your color scheme should shift a bit away from all of the vibrant colors that accompany the early fall. Instead, try metallics like bronze or gold, burgundy, rust, and perhaps even shades of brown. Peach, burgundy (or wine), and red, combined with a few pops of sage green, make a stunning set of fall wedding colors that really captures the essence of the season. It's romantic and classy, plus it's easy to find flowers that really fit in with the theme.
Think Orange
All shades of orange—including peach—are great for mid-fall weddings. If you're planning a Halloween wedding, you may even want to consider featuring true orange in your decorations. Even if you're not getting married on or right around Halloween, orange is one of the top picks for mid-fall weddings.
Dusty rose tones look beautiful against peach, orange, and even rust. Other complementary fall shades include browns, wine, and burgundy. Red looks best as an accent color when used during the middle and late fall.
Metallics Add Spark
Shades of bronze, copper, and gold make for a beautiful color scheme. They can also be used as accent colors in the ribbons on the flowers, the decorations at the weddings site, or to enrich the reception hall's beauty. If you're getting married somewhere with lots of earth tones, using metallics can make it seem as though you spent much more money on the decorations than you did.

Embrace seasonal colors.
Not everyone looks their best in deep bronzes, coppers, and so forth, so keep your wedding party's skin tones in mind when choosing bridal party dresses.
Late Fall
Late fall is very versatile. You can use the deep, rich colors like chocolate or red-tinged plum, and go for a metallic theme with pops of color to welcome the coming winter season (such as apple red or pine green) mixed with cream and mocha, or go for a nearly monochromatic theme using pale gold, cream, and shades of brown.
Subdued Neutrals: Almost Monochromatic
One of the most beautiful ways to welcome winter when you have a late fall wedding is to choose a pale, neutral, monochromatic color scheme with golden accents. That means lots of browns: mocha, tan, caramel, cream, off-white, beige—whichever mix you prefer. Make sure you add gold to give it a hint of glitz and a whole lot of glam.
Adding a bit of red, green, or silver can also be a nod toward winter weather colors.
Choosing Accent Colors
When choosing wedding colors for a fall ceremony, you'll of course need one or two main colors and then a couple of accent colors. The earlier it is in the season, the more color—everywhere—you can get away with. Of course, it is your wedding, so if you want to use watermelon pink and lime green in late November, don't let seasonal restraints hold you back. If you're looking for guidance when it comes to playing to the tones of fall, here are some tips on choosing your accent colors:
Early Fall: Even if your main color or colors are pretty vibrant (pumpkin, for example), you can get away with brighter accent colors. Small amounts of apple red wouldn't look out of place, for example.
Mid-Fall: In mid-fall, subdued, muted, and earthy tones are popular. Try accenting in colors that are also muted, cream or other pale neutrals, and hints of metallic tones. Using a single bright pop of color, such as yellow in a cast of orange and rust, will also bid farewell to the passing of summer and still flow nicely with the color scheme.
Late Fall: Late fall calls for rich, warm colors and metallics. Light gold makes a beautiful accent color whether your color scheme consists of light neutrals or the deepest, velvety colors available. If you choose a darker palette, bring light to the decorations by adding in hints of cream or champagne. For other accent colors, don’t be afraid of red and pine green.
Fall wedding colors are rich and vibrant, celebrating both the fruitfulness of the season and the blossoming of your nuptials.

Hiring For Our Wedding Portal

2009-09-29T10:17:00.000-07:00

Our community based guide - portal that focuses on the wedding & events industry is growing. We are looking for people with wedding &/or events experience, are professional in demeanor & presentation, are trainable and want to be part of an exciting industry with a career in sales. Our compensation is tops in the industry with residual income. We want serious part time &/or full time persons to send their resume asap. Please include references and list any language skills [ie spanish, mandrin, russian, greek, etc] We will contact all good fit candidates within 24 hours. There is never a fee to work for us. If you are serious about work ... contact us.

You can check out the full discription of the job on http://www.orweddingsandevents.info/, click on the Careers tab at the top!

You can email me at: orweddingsandevents@gmail.com, please include your resume!

Wedding Decorations

2009-07-16T18:11:00.000-07:00

You should plan your decorating ideas ahead of time so that you will have everything you need for your wedding. Plan your color scheme and the theme for your decorations. Make it fun or fancy, whatever you want, just make sure there will not be anything looked over to cause last minute hassles.

There is no need to go expensive, I found these decorations on a website; http://www.wrapwithus.com/ for little to nothing. If you are crafty, don't be afraid to make your own!

Enjoy,

Jenniene

Beautiful Place For An Event (Colorado)

2009-07-07T13:14:00.000-07:00

The Tapestry House is a new, elegantly handcrafted Victorian country manor set on a stunning five acre setting of lawns, flower gardens, a meandering creek and majestic old-growth trees. A lovely gazebo and a historic 1880's barn add to the perfect setting for an outdoor wedding or other special event.The Tapestry House will provide your guests with the warmth and charm of a private home, offering the ambiance and luxury of a traditional Victorian home but with the comforts and conveniences of a new facility. It is the perfect setting for weddings, receptions, anniversary parties, retreats, family reunions, Bar / Bat mitzvahs, company luncheons, holiday parties, and corporate meetings.Intimate indoor events may be held inside the Tapestry House for 10 - 50 guests. Larger events for up to 225 are held inside the Reception Pavilion. There is a picturesque gazebo set under the trees on the front lawn: the perfect site for your wedding ceremony.The Tapestry House is also available for overnight rental and sleeps 12 guests in 6 bedrooms. Please call for details.Showing Hours: Tours are offered by appointment or during the Open Touring Hours listed on our Home Page. Call to schedule an appointment or stop by during our Open Touring Hours. We schedule tours around our event schedule.

http://www.tapestryhouse.com

Jenniene

Wedding Stationery Tips

2009-06-23T16:38:00.000-07:00

Your wedding stationery will be the first impression that your guests have of your wedding. The invitations represent you and your wedding, so give your invitations importance by thoughtfully selecting - the paper, letter style and formality.
Doing your save-the-dates, invitations, accessory cards, programs, menu cards, and place cards at the last minute "spells" nothing but trouble. It’s very important to give yourself enough time for this. Often times, brides will start with the save-the-dates, then think about the invites, and lastly about the programs and accessory materials. When things are done in pieces and chunks of time are lost between each step, the stationery style does not end up being cohesive. As soon as you begin searching for the save-the-dates, you should also be thinking about all the other ensemble pieces. Your planner, a boutique stationery store specializing in custom pieces, or one that has a lot of experience dealing with weddings would be a great starting point. Take the time to look through books carefully, to get a sense for what’s out there. If you do not have a theme, you might find that going through this exercise will help you to develop one. You might see a style that you like, and model your entire event around it!
The save-the-dates should be sent out 6 months prior to your wedding (May and June Brides - beware of those holiday months). You should start looking at stationary 9 months prior to your wedding date. This may be a difficult concept to grasp since many couples do not think about it until it’s absolutely necessary. Keep in mind that you will need at least 3 weeks to obtain proofs and make changes. It’s very important that you take your time to review the proof carefully to makes sure there are no spelling or grammatical errors. The printer prints directly from the proof so everything should be just as you want it. Companies can and will make spelling errors, omissions or insertions. Keep in mind that it takes a lot of time to make font style, size, or color changes. If you have multi-colored stationery, it will take on average 72 hours more not only to prepare proofs, but also to print. If you do have multi-colored invites, it’s very important to acquire a colored proof.
Make sure to confirm what is included in your package price. Depending upon where you purchase your printed materials, you might pay by the proof. Making changes might prove to be very costly, so make sure everything is reviewed thoroughly prior to submitting it to the company for another proof.
Always...always get proofs - if there is an additional cost! There are never any second chances, and it "proves" to be very expensive if you have to reprint and then overnight your stationery.

Jenniene

Ideas For Wedding Favors

2009-06-20T18:26:00.000-07:00

Over the years wedding favors have become increasingly popular. Guests often look forward to receiving a keepsake favor to take home with them after the wedding party.
Wedding party favors add to the decor and theme of the reception, ranging from simple bookmaker's to elegant crystal or silver pieces for the bridal party that can later be displayed in a curio cabinet or on a fireplace mantle.
Some couples prefer to give the guests something edible, such as Jordan almonds, available in colors white, silver or gold or a small box of mints, truffles or homemade chocolate wedding favors. Candy conversation hearts and gourmet coffee or tea are also good favor ideas. Even the boxes alone come in a large variety of shapes and colors, ranging from heart, cone, pyramid and purse shapes that come in floral and embossed pearl papers. Boxes can be topped with a decorative bow or a colorful silk flower chosen to coordinate with your wedding colors. Prices usually range from 25 cents to over $1.50. The Jordan almonds can also be made into an elegant favor by placing each candy coated almond into the petal of an almond holder flower made of white netting, wire and leaves, a great favor idea! These can easily be assembled by the bridesmaids or purchased assembled for about $1.50. Organza bags come in a variety of colors and can also be filled with candy.
Favors can also be designed with the season of the year as a theme...fall wedding favor ideas include autumn leaf candles or tulip bulbs wrapped in a sheet of tulle and tied with ribbon. Winter favors include mini cherub holiday ornaments, pine or cinnamon scented potpourri, floating poinsettia candles or silver bells. Any favor can be personalized with a unique thank you note or a short poem printed on a small card. Christmas weddings or holiday wedding favor ideas can be to use wrapped mini gifts of different shapes and sizes in your wedding colors and place at each table setting. Mini sleighs are available at most craft stores. Fill sleighs with Holiday candies, favors for the guests, or the table card.
Other popular shower or wedding favor ideas include mini wedding cake candles Personalized Wedding Favor Candle Sets, Personalized Coffee Favors, heart-shaped cookie cutters with a sugar cookie recipe attached, crystal or silver bottle stoppers, butterfly wedding favors, place card holders, cake cutters, silver serving tongs, coffee scoops, mini teacups, crystal bells, small picture frames, silver dolphin bottle openers, bath beads or decorative soaps, small photo albums, candle holders, personalized golf balls, place card chairs, floating flower candles or personalized miniature bottles of wine or champagne. Search our Wedding Store or online where wedding favor supplies can be purchased in bulk discount/ wholesale and then created by you together with your bridal party, friends and family members, a great idea if you are on a tight budget. The best way to select a favor that is right for your wedding is to determine your budget, number of guests, theme (if any) and what you might enjoy receiving yourself.
Popular Ideas for Wedding Favors:
Cookie Cutter Favors
Heart Shaped Chocolates, wrapped in special wedding favor holders
Personalized Coffee Favors
Personalized Candy Bar Wrappers
Personalized Wine Bottles
Favor Magnets
Wildflower Seed Packets
Scented and/or Personalized Candles and Candle Holders
Small Picture Frames That Double as a Place Card Holder
Scented & Specially Shaped Soaps
Wedding Music CD
Personalized Matchbooks
Wine Bottle Stopper
Silver Plated Fortune Cookie Favors

Have a great wedding,

Jenniene

Green Wedding Ideas

2009-06-18T18:54:00.000-07:00

You can incorporate several elements into your wedding planning to make your wedding more eco-friendly.

Use biodegradable seed paper for your invitations; when planted in soil, they grow wildflowers. Other invitation options include hemp, bamboo, banana stalk, and sugar cane paper. You could also use recycled paper stock and utilize new technology to have invitations e-mailed to more tech-savvy guests by using a service such as Evite.com.

Wear a vintage or previously owned wedding dress. Places to find vintage dresses include consignment shops, thrift stores, or auction websites. Some bridal shops also may specialize in the restoration, recycling and resale of wedding gowns. Alternatively, you can have a dress custom-made from organic raw materials grown without pesticides, such as taffeta made from corn, silk blended with hemp, or natural, earth-friendly bamboo. The groom can even wear a hemp tuxedo! Many up-and-coming wedding dress designers are practicing their craft with innovative fabrics and fair labor practices. The color white is traditional, but not environmentally friendly, as it became white from a toxic chemical process. After the wedding, think about donating your wedding gown to charity. There are charitable organizations who donate proceeds from used wedding gowns to their valuable work.
If you have your wedding and reception in the same location, it will lessen automobile emissions into the air. Instead of renting a limousine or Hummer, try using a hybrid, compact car, or even a horse and buggy for a more unique, old-fashioned vibe. If two separate locations cannot be avoided, you can request that your guests carpool on the invitations or hire a shuttle bus. Use local and organic food wherever feasible, and donate extra food to a shelter.

Use local, seasonal flowers for the ceremony and reception. Another option is potted plants, which can be given to guests for replanting or donated to a local hospital or professional nursing facility. Consider giving your guests wedding favors such as packets of seeds and bulbs, promoting sustainable and renewable agriculture for the planet.

Serve local, organic beer and wine–at least avoid imported beer and wine. (Contemplate home-brewing if that is an interest of yours—a bottle of your home brew could also serve as a possible wedding favor.)

As a viable alternative to the limousine or Hummer, how about renting a hybrid or compact car, or even a horse and buggy for a more unique old-fashioned vibe?

Set up your bridal registry at stores that sell organic cotton, recycled glassware, bamboo home décor, and the like, reflecting your green lifestyle and values as a couple. As another option, you could request that your guests donate to eco-friendly organizations rather than giving other wedding gifts.

The sky's the limit, have fun!

Jenniene

Wedding Check List

2009-06-15T19:31:00.000-07:00

Start your wedding planning with an easy-to-use wedding checklist that will keep you organized and on top of things!

Twelve months before
___ Set date and time

___ Gather information from bridal books and other resources

___ Discuss the formality, size and location of the ceremony and reception with both families

___ Decide on a budget and the division of expenses

___ Determine the size of the guest list

___ Confirm date and time with officiant

___ Book ceremony and reception sites

___ Choose and contact attendants

___ Shop for wedding gown and accessories

___ Select dresses for bridesmaids

___ Select and book a wedding consultant, photographer, videographer, caterer, florists and musicians or DJ.

___ Announce engagement in the newspaper

___ Discuss where you will live after the wedding
Nine months before

___ Start a guest list

___ Decide on honeymoon destination

___ Plan music for the ceremony and reception

___ Select and order wedding rings and arrange for engraving

___ Register for china, linens, etc.
Six months before
___ Order invitations, announcements, napkins, thank-you notes and programs

___ Order party favors

___ Finalize honeymoon plans

___ Plan wedding decorations

___ Register at gift and department stores

___ Finalize guest list

___ Pay all deposits for any services reserved and get all contracts signed

___ Reserve all rental equipment needed for reception and wedding

___ Meet with caterer, florist, photographer, baker

___ Select and order wedding cake
Five months before
___ Purchase rings

___ Have the groom, groomsmen and any others fitted for their formal attire

___ Check on marriage license; sometimes there are requirements

___ Ask friends or family members to help with the guest book, reception, etc.
Three months before
___ Plan the ceremony rehearsal

___ Plan the rehearsal dinner

___ Mail invitations four to six weeks in advance

___ Shop for trousseau

___Confirm final fitting and delivery date for dresses and gown

___ Select hair and makeup stylist

___ Select going-away outfit

___ Select gifts for attendants

___ Buy wedding album and guest books

___ Schedule a wedding portrait

___ Contact photographer, reception site, florist and caterer to verify dates and all details of what is ordered

___ Contact the rental equipment company and ask for a printout so you can verify the date and number of items is correct

___ Arrange transportation for the wedding day

___ Send thank-you notes for any gifts received early and/or bridal showers
Two months before
___ Reserve accommodations for out-of-town guests

___ Finalize arrangements for music and wedding cake
One month before
___ Notify the wedding party of rehearsal time and invite guests to the rehearsal dinner

___ Obtain your marriage license

___ Contact caterer with final count of guests

___ Delegate all last-minute items

___ Make sure groomsmen have been fitted for their attire, and that bridesmaids have been fitted and have all the accessories

___ Provide in writing to your consultant the order of events for the ceremony
One to two weeks before
___ Have final fittings for all attire

___ Record each gift as it is received and write thank-you notes promptly

___ Provide photographer with a list of desired photos

___ Pack for the honeymoon

___ Pick up wedding rings

___ Verify all honeymoon arrangements
The day before
___ Have your hair and nails done

___ Give gifts to attendants

___ Hold rehearsal and rehearsal dinner

___ Place all attire and accessories in one place
The wedding day
___ Allow plenty of time to get ready

___ Thank everyone who helped along the way

___ Eat a good breakfast

___ Have Fun, It's Your Wedding!

Jenniene

Weddings On The Beach

2009-06-12T19:02:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the Beach Bill, a law enacted by the Oregon legislature, all of Oregon's beaches are open and free to the public. For wedding parties, this means that getting married to the accompaniment of breaking waves and epic ocean views means simply walking onto the sand with a ring and a prayer, so to speak. The only hitch to this way of getting hitched may be access to the beach. Beach access through a state park, for example, requires the payment of a day use fee ($3 per car if the park is designated as a day use park). Many of Oregon's top coastal parks require a day use fee. There is no fee if someone just walks into the park.If you choose to access the beach from a state wayside (parking area, picnic tables, restrooms) or scenic viewpoint, there is no fee.

Also, keep in mind that crossing private property to access a beach is not allowed, which means that you can't tramp through somebodies yard with your wedding party, cake, minister and taffeta-dressed bridesmaids in order to reach that perfect crescent of Oregon sand.Additionally, many of our parks offer covered shelters (varying from rustic to deluxe) which are popular for weddings and receptions. Rental fees vary (typically $50), and reservations are required. Check out which beaches offer covered shelters, gazebos or other group accommodations.

Wedding license fees may vary depending on the county. We'd suggest contacting the County Clerk's office in the county in which you will be married. If you have a marriage license from another county in Oregon, you may be allowed to use it. If you are applying for a marriage license along the coast, in most cases, you can apply for a waiver of Oregon's three-day waiting period. Keep in mind that there is an additional fee to receive this waiver.
Also, if you are applying for the wedding license after you arrive on the coast, you'll need to have proper identification that includes a photo and birth date. A driver's license, Military ID or passport will also work. Finally, if you have been divorced within the last six months you'll need to bring a copy of the divorce decree.

Now have a lovely wedding.

Jenniene

Why Not?

2009-06-09T18:02:00.000-07:00

If you are thinking of when to have your wedding, and you happen to be one of those people who love the holiday's and want to include your special day during that time, why not!

Be bold and do what makes you happy, it's also a time when friends and family consider traveling to be with one another, so why not combine the two and save them some traveling money?

You may want to think of a Thanksgiving theme and use all those great fall colors for your table and wedding party, what a beautiful setting that would be! Think of all the delicious foods you could serve just for the occasion, I can smell the aromas now.....

As far as pictures go, if you are lucky enough to live in a wooded area the fall colors on the trees would be a great backdrop for pictures and you could use real leaves for some of your decorations, so go ahead, be bold and do it!

Don't forget to shop at the wedding store on my wedding portal; http://www.orweddingsandevents.info/ and check out my calender for upcoming events on the same site!

Jenniene

Some Events Comming Up

2009-06-05T16:21:00.001-07:00

Heaven Can Wait Time:9:00 AM Date:6/7/2009 Event Description:5K Women's Walk/Run for Breast Cancer June 7th at 9:00 am Drake Park $20 to register online at www.heavencanwait.org proceeds benefit Sara Fisher Project of St. Charles Cancer Treatment Center Directions:Drake Park, Bend Oregon

541-706-7743 For more information

Central Oregon Wildflower Show
Time:9:00 AM TO 4:00 PM Date:6/12/2009 TO 6/14/2009
Event Description:Over 100 live specimens of wildflowers on display. Experts to answer questions. Live plants for sale. Cost: $5 Adults $2 children (ages 2-12) Members $2 Fee includes admission to the Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory.
Directions:at the Pozzi Building on the grounds of the Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory. Off of circle 3 in Sunriver.
541-593-4394 For more information.

Don't forget to check out my portal for great shopping at the Wedding Store at the top of the page in grey!! http://www.orweddingsandevents.info

Jenniene

Save Lot's of Money on Your Event

2009-06-02T16:29:00.000-07:00

Saving money is on every one's mind with the economy and the thought of losing one's job at any moment in time. That's why we do what we do, our Internet portal was designed and priced for the advertiser or shopper in the climate of the times. We want everyone to be a winner, you shouldn't have to postpone that dream wedding, 50th wedding anniversary party, that dream cruise, your child's graduation party/gift!

Shop our Internet portal; http://www.orweddingsandevents.info/ and you'll be able to afford what you thought you couldn't. On the first page, on the top in the grey area, click on the Oregon Wedding Store and you will find all kinds of shopping needs at the lowest prices ever. Also, check out our sister portal: http://www.oregoninternetpages.com/, there you will find more bargains for your event. If you need ideas, help shopping, or have questions, don't hesitate to email me from the weddings and events portal or call. I would be happy to assist you.

Have fun shopping!

Upcoming Wedding Shows

2009-05-30T14:52:00.000-07:00

For those of you who are just starting to think about planning your wedding, there are some wedding shows you may be interested in that are coming up in our beautiful state of Oregon.

It is a good idea to attend a show so that you can get ideas and be more creative to fit your own taste. It doesn't mean you have to buy that expensive dress, or the biggest cake, just take it all in and create your own style from there.

One of the largest Bridal Shows will be coming to Salem, OR. in the fall, Oct. 3 & 4 2009 to find all the details, just go to: http://www.oregonweddingshowcase.com/ and on the same site you will find the January information for the next Bridal show in Eugene on January 17 & 18, 2010.

Remember to check out our site for great shopping deals at: http://www.orweddingsandevents.info/!

Jenniene

Wedding Dresses

2009-05-27T16:44:00.000-07:00

For those brides to be who are thinking or already looking for that perfect wedding dress, I just want to remind you; it doesn't have to be white!

The day of the white only wedding dress is now over, and that is a good thing for those of us who love to dare to be different or just love color. I myself wore a beautiful blue satin dress, made just for me! If you want some of the traditional style, but want to add a little flare and your own style, think about finding something that has a splash of color on the bottom part of your gown, or some colored sequens, for those that want to venture into a total untraditional style, pick your favorite color....don't be afraid, make it your theme color and everything will flow perfectly.

Don't forget, if you can't find what you want, there are many great seamstresses who will be able to taylor your dress just for you.

Have fun, remember, this is your wedding!

Jenniene

Helpful Hints

2009-05-19T11:19:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,

Just some hints for your upcoming event or wedding.

Everyone loves candles and they can make your events warm and cozy, but there are some things to remember when using them.

1) Keep in mind when serving food, whether you are having a buffet or sit down dinner, do not use scented candles. Smell is an important part of the eating experience and a scented candle at the table can interfere with the taste of the food.

2) Some people have allergies and a scented candle can ruin the entire experience for someone who is allergic. If you are having a small event, you may be able to ask if anyone has allergies if you wanted to use a scented candle in a different area than the food items.

3) Make sure your candles are placed in or on something that will catch the hot wax and have something to burn down to. We don't want any accidents.

4) Color is fun, so don't be afraid to mix and match colored candles to your theme.

5) Dim the lights so that the candle light will make a more subtle and romantic atmosphere.

Most of all, have fun!

Jenniene

What's Happening-Easy Ideas For Your Wedding or Event: Easter Is Here!

2009-04-27T16:37:00.000-07:00

What's Happening-Easy Ideas For Your Wedding or Event: Easter Is Here!

http://www.orweddingsandevents.blogspot.com/

It's Bar-B-Q Time

2009-04-20T16:32:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,

The weather is getting warmer and warmer, the flowers and trees are budding, if not already flowering and I am hearing lawnmowers and motorcycles! That means the time for Bar-B-Qing is near. Start thinking about your first Bar-B-Q and for extra fun, add a theme to it. Maybe a Hawaiian theme would be fun, get some pineapples and cut them out, fill them with fresh fruit for center pieces, grill chicken soaked in pineapple, soy sauce marinade, get some Hawaiian lei's to put on your guests as they arrive.

Don't forget to check out orweddingsandevents.info for all your supplies, even food items!

Happy Bar-B-Q!

Jenniene

Easter Is Here!

2009-04-11T18:55:00.000-07:00

Yes, it is Easter and where has the time gone? We are just starting our Oregon Wedding and Events blog, so I am sorry if I was too late to get some ideas to you for Easter. But, just in case I am going to include a few of them in our first blog. As always, remember to go to our Internet portal, orweddingsandevents.info to find everything for your event and more!

For those of you who have children, and are concerned about giving them too much candy there are some fun ways to get them involved not only in an Easter Egg hunt, but also in their social skills.

You will need some plastic Easter eggs, the kind that come apart, some colored paper, and a pen. Tell the children that they have, let's say 6 eggs to find. In each egg write a comment about something that they have achieved and you want them to know what a good job they have done. Example: Jessica, you are doing a great job of walking our new puppy every day, because of that you are going to get a special gift. You can say it is from the Easter Rabbit, or not. After they have found all of their eggs bring them into a room that has the gift for each achievement and let them open each gift. Place a tag on each one to tell them for which achievement it is for. The candy can be secondary for their Easter celebration!

Don't forget to go to orweddingsandevents.info to find everything you need to make theirs and yours a Happy Easter Event.

Jenniene

It's All Here ...

2009-04-09T14:19:00.000-07:00

content coming soon