Saving for the Future

OK, lets face it, weddings can be expensive! However, there are lots of ways you can save for the wedding and lots of things you can do to help with the cost.

First step is to remember that it is your wedding and you should pick a theme, style or look that really represents the two of you.  There are a million images of amazing weddings out there and lots of things to fall in love with.  Many of which can make you over spend.  Make sure you take a step back and think if it is really something you WANT or just something you think is pretty.

Below are a few things you can do to save some extra money for your wedding, honeymoon or first house.  (or whatever you want to use it for)

1. When you use cash, drop all your change into a jar. If you spend $7.65 at lunch, leave a $2 tip and pay with a $20 bill you have $10.35 left.  Put the $10 back in your wallet and drop the $.35 in the jar.  Do this for a full month and see how much money you spend.

2. Eat out one less time a week.  Either lunch or dinner.  If it is lunch make a little extra dinner the night before so that you have some leftovers.  This can save you on average $7 a week.  If you typically eat out 3 or 4 times a week for lunch you can save yourself about $20 a month.

3. Drink more water.  It is free.  If you go for an afternoon coffee or pop or even just order a drink like Ice Tea or Lemonade with your meals you can save anywhere from $2-6 per drink.  Imagine if you went for 10 lunches a month and didn't order a drink and instead just ordered water you could save on the low end $20 a month.

4. Evaluate how you spend money at the grocery store. Use coupons! Even if it is just for one or two items.  The money you can save is amazing.  There are a lot of programs you can use to help like coupons.com.  Additionally, check into the stores you shop at the most for their rewards cards.  Safeway has a mobile App and Fred Meyer has a rewards card where you can add manufacture coupons to your card and do not have to clip them.  This saves you extra time in trying to remember to take them with you.

5. Use CASH! I know this may sound funny but set up a budget for all your non essential monthly expenses.  put together 4 envelopes and if your budget is $400 for the month put five (5) $20 bills in each envelope.  At the end of the week whatever is left put in the money jar! Don't roll it to the next month and Don't steal for the next month.  If you run out on Thursday make due.  Eat at home, don't buy that Starbucks, Dutch Brothers or other coffee drink.  Remember the above post about water? :) 

6. Walk!!  It is amazing how much time we spend driving around.  Walk to lunch if there is a place close by, walk to the store or instead of driving somewhere like a movie theater go for a walk with your sweetheart. It will save you some time, money and gives you a workout. :)

7. Errands - Stop on the way home from work to pick up groceries and plan out your day so that you can run all your errands at the same time.  Instead of doing 1 day try to schedule a full day on the weekend and get them all done at once.

Most importantly really look at what you are buying.  Do you NEED that item?  Can you pay for it out of your monthly budget or will it take 2 or 3?  Money doesn't grow on trees so it is good to sleep on bigger purchases.  If a day or two later you still want it and can afford it without hurting your budget then go for it.  :)

Need additional help creating a budget for your wedding?  Schedule a consultation with us and we can go over some tips and tricks.  There are lots of ways out there to save your budget during your wedding planning process as well as ways to save money and get a few more of the items you would like.  So lets chat. :)  

Life is about enjoying but not about going into debt.  So enjoy the beauty in life.

Lisa Marie

Eventsbylisamarie.com

503-830-7779

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Portland Oregon Event and Wedding Planner. 

Emergency Wedding Kits

Every couple wants a perfect day.  Well there are times when a few things may need to be fixed, altered or worked on.  Because of this even couple who do not hire a coordinator should be prepared.  This means having an emergency wedding kit on hand.  The good news is you can put this together months in advance and have it on hand and ready to go, or you can buy them at The Wedding Cottage

When putting your kit together we recommend getting an inexpensive tub or tote with a locking top and handle to carry it.

The Basic Kit
2 - bottles of water                        2 - protein/granola bars             1 - package of almonds
1 - bottle pain reliever                   1 - basic first aide kit
1- bottle unscented lotion              1- toothbrush/ toothpaste          1 - bottle mouthwash
1 - package bobby pins                  1 - package of hair ties             1 - bottle hair spray 
1 - package safety pins                  1- travel sized sewing kit
1- package of kleenex                    1 - tide stick                              1- lint roller

This has most of the items you will need to get you thru your day.  Below is what we have and some pictures of how we pack out kits.

First we have very extensive kits because as we set up and manage your day there are a lot of little things that may happen and need to be taken care of.  So over the last 5 years our kits have continued to grow.

First is what we call our Bathroom Kit and below is a picture of it and what all is included.

First it comes in an easy to carry box with a handle.  Inside you will find.

3- tampons
2- pads
6- wisps (disposable toothbrushes)
1- package of cough drops
1- package Chloraseptic throat lozenges
1- bottle Aleve
1- bottle of Tylenol (we keep both since some people can't have one or the other)
1- bottle unscented lotion
1- Dove Powder Deodorant
1- package oil blotters
1- package kleenex
1- package puff pads
1 - package of each black & tan hair ties  
1 - dental floss                                                                       1 - bottle hand sanitizer
1 - package bobby pins                                                          1- tub of toothpaste
1 - tub of clear gloss                                                               1 - bottle of Visine
1 - bottle of baby powder                                                       1 - package of Tums
1 - 3 different sized mirrors                                                   1 - eyeshadow applicators
1 - bottle of hair spray                                                            1 - Manicure set
1 - travel shampoo & Conditioner                                          1 - razor & shave cream

Keep in mind this is still only a selection of what all in in there.   We also add things that you will need just for your wedding like finger nail polish in the color you are wearing.

Next we have our Sewing Kits.

This kit is the most used and has lots of items in it.  The picture is missing a few items but here is a list of what we bring.
1 - full travel sewing kits with 20 different colors of thread, sissors, needles, pins, and more
1 - hot glue gun and glue sticks
1 - bottle of gold safety pins (2 different sizes)
1 - bottle of silver safety pins (2 different sizes)
1 - package Deodorant Removing Sponges
1 - package of fabric glues
1 - package of Body Tape (to stick your dress to you)
1- package of fashion tape (for your dress)
1 - Lint Roller
1 - bottle of boutonniere pins
1 - package of Kleenex
1 - Tide Stick
1- package Shout Wipes

Then there is our extras tub.  This tub has all sorts of extras that are often needed for set up, getting ready and during the reception.

1 - package of straws for the bride
1 - package Wet Ones
1 - package Lysol Wipes
1 - package of clear 3M hooks to hang things with
1 - pair of sissors
1 - tin of altoids
1 - package of first aide gloves
1 - first aide kit
10 - packets of Spark (sugar free energy drink)
3 - packets of peanuts
4 - granola bars
3 - lighters
3 - pens
1 - picture hanging set
1 - roll of fishing line
1- roll of regular and double sided tape
1 - roll of scrapbook tape
                                                           
1 - package sharpies                                                                1 - package dry erase markers
10 - table stands                                                                      1 - staple gun
1 - package of chalk                                                                3 - nice pens
1 - hammer                                                                              10 - nails
1 - multi use screwdriver                                                         10 - screws
1 - wire cutter

You may notice that there are some things we have in there twice.  There are a few things we keep lots of and therefore add them to different tubs in the kit.

 Lastly we always keep things in our kit that will help with entertaining the younger crowd during the reception. We always keep a minimum of 10 coloring kits.  These kits include a small coloring book, stickers and a small packet of crayons.  We have found that often times after dinner the younger kids need something to keep them busy.  This gives them something to sit and do so that their parents can relax and have a little bit of fun as well.  This is something that is always in our kits so it is just an added bonus to our client.

We believe that anything we can do to make your day a more pleasant one we will.  That includes making sure your guests are enjoying themselves no matter what age they are.



So you may be asking what we bring all this in?  Well here is a picture of the kit we use.  It has wheels so it is easy to roll.  We also have different compartments for different things so that each of our coordinators knows where things are and it is easy to get to them. 

Please note that we will add things that relate directly to your wedding to each kit.  So this may be adding some ribbon in your wedding color, bug spray or sun screen.  We may also bring an extra supply of candles and votives if we feel they may be needed and all of this can still fit in these kits.

So join us and become part of the Events by Lisa Marie family as a bride and groom.  Let us make sure your special day is a fantastic one.  Our wedding planners and specialists have experience making indoor or outdoor, large or small weddings a smashing success.

Lisa Marie

Events by Lisa Marie

503-830-7779

Boutonniere - Left or Right?

Did you know almost everything that is part of a wedding comes from a tradition? It can be a family tradition, one that the bride and groom started or something that has been done for years.

I remember my mom telling me years ago as I got ready for Prom the history behind why flowers were wore.  Well the tradition behind the Boutonniere started many years ago.  When (and this may be a little unpleasant) indoor plumbing was not prevalent and body odors were more noticeable.

The Boutonniere, as with the Corsage, were worn to formal occasions (dinners, weddings, dances) so that as a couple was dancing close the floral scent would mask any unwanted odors.  The Boutonniere has a specific place it should be worn.  This is part of the tradition of wearing it so take note. :)

1. The Boutonniere should always be worn on the left side.

2. If a jacket is being worn it is to be worn on the Lapel - Not one the pocket, by the pocket or above. (and please not in the pocket)

3. The Boutonniere, while traditionally worn thru the buttonhole so that the flowers could sit in a mini water tube and stay fresh, is no longer worn this way. It should be pinned on straight on the Lapel.

4. Pinning it on - We prefer to pin in a vertical manner from the back of the Lapel.  Others prefer to pin it vertically between the Lapel and the Boutonniere. Some pin horizontally thru the back of the Lapel. Always pin from the the back of the Lapel so that the pins are not seen. 

5. If no jacket is being worn the Boutonniere still goes on the left side on the vest. If no vest you will want to make sure your Boutonniere is not large but instead something smaller so that it does not pull on your shirt.

 Some traditions are meant to be broken, this one however should not.

PS always ask someone else to help pin on the Boutonnieres if your florist is not available.  This is one task a coordinator can and will do for you.  It should be done right and straight. It is hard to do this if you are pinning it on yourself. :) 

Lisa Marie
Events by Lisa Marie

Professional Wedding Coordinators

Portland Oregon

503-830-7779

www.eventsbylisamarie.com

Importance of a Professional?

Many people think they can save money on their wedding by choosing vendors not professionals.  Below is a brief article of some questions you need to ask those who will be participating in your special day.  You WANT/NEED professionals at your wedding.  Not just vendors or Hobbyists.  You will have a much more enjoyable time and the wedding will be more successful, still need to save some money in the budget?  That’s just fine there are lots of ways to do that and still get your professionals.    

Here are some basic questions you need to ask any wedding professional you are meeting with for your wedding. Q=Questions, R=Reason the questions needs to be asked.

Q. Are you licensed with the state?
R. If they are not you may have less help if something goes wrong, and most people who are NOT licensed with the state are more of Hobbyist and less Professionals. 

Q. How long have you been in BUSINESS?
R. Make sure you ask business not industry.  Some people can say they have been in the industry but not in business for themselves.  New Business’ are fine to book with but you will want to make sure that they have all their paperwork, time-lines, contracts and business in order.   Also if they are new to owning their own business as for referral from past clients.

Q. Can I look at your Portfolio?
R. This will give you a glimpse into the type of work they have produced.  Make sure that they have a variety of images, events or ideas they can show you.  If they only have one or two events in their portfolio then they may not have the depth or experience you will be looking for.

Q. Ask to see a copy of their contract while in your consultation.
R. You will want to read through it before it is given to you to sign.  If there is something in the contract that would prevent you from signing it you will want to know before a proposal is given to you with the contract.  This will also give you a chance to ask questions about anything in or not in the contract.

Q. Ask if they have business insurance, If yes ask for a copy of their COI.
R. You want to know that they have taken the time to protect THEIR business.  If they have taken the time to do this most likely they are going to also take care of you.

Q. Ask for some testimonials or reference from past clients
R. There are a lot of online reference sites.  This is a good way to check and see how happy past clients really are.  Chances are if they are listed even without a testimonial they are less of a hobbyist.  If they have testimonials you can read them.

Keep in mind these are just a FEW of the questions you will want to ask.  We can work with you on additional questions that are professional specific during a consultation.

For additional support in choosing Professionals contact us now for a complimentary consultation.

Events by Lisa Marie

www.eventsbylisamarie.com

www.facebook.com/eventsbylisamarie

503-830-7779

Reasons to hire a Wedding and Event Planner

There are many reasons a Wedding Planner, Coordinator or Specialist may be for you.  Some of which may include stress management, budget control and time.  Planning a wedding takes a lot of time and energy both physically and emotionally.  So why not sit down with a Planner or Specialist who can help guide you through the process.  Below are some details as to how a Wedding Planner/Specialist can help make your wedding run smoothly and have it be enjoyable for all involved. 

Stress – There are many decisions that need to be made and many have an intense timeline that needs to be followed.  Professionals need to be found, interviewed and booked, dresses need to be picked out and ordered in time to have them arrive and be fitted, Invitations need to be sent out with RSVP’s being tracked.  Centerpieces need to be designed to fit the overall theme.  All these things can make planning a wedding stressful but can also be things a Planner does for you thus reducing your stress and creating a memorable and fun wedding.

Budget – How many times do you get married?  Many people are not familiar with what venues cost, or how much they should pay per person for catering.  Wedding Planners/Specialists have the ability to help you wade through the proposals and negotiate them down or cut out what you do not need so that you are sticking to the budget.  They also know where to go for the items you need within the budget you have.

Time – you may just not have enough time to be able to plan your wedding.  Because of this you may fall victim to thoughts and ideas others have for you.  By hiring a Wedding Planner/Specialist you are able to plan your wedding the way you want it done while still having time to live your life. We also have no relation to your family and friends and can tell  them NO.  Creating your perfect day not theirs.

Things to consider- Day of Coordinators are fabulous when you want to plan things yourself but still want the comfort of knowing things will come together.  Regardless of if you have lots of decoration you want set up or a big grand entrance to be organized, a Day of Coordinator can make your wedding relaxing and fun.  They take on all the stress of completing the set up, managing the timeline, notifying other professionals and making sure things run smoothly.  Who wants to be in the bathroom when the best man tells the DJ he is ready for the toast.  NOT THE BRIDE that's why hiring a planner to help with your day is a good idea. We are there so that you, your husband, family and friends can all enjoy the day without having to worry about all the little details.

Why Hire Us?

Simple – We have experience with weddings from 50-500 guests, we listen to your vision and make suggestions based on what you are looking for, we work hard to make your day perfect and we are budget friendly.  We can help you negotiate many of your contracts to help you SAVE money as well as having an inventory of our own for you to rental, keeping your cost lower by not having to buy them.  Additionally we have happy clients and years of experience in the industry.

Lisa Marie

Events by Lisa Marie

Wedding and Event Specialist