June Blowout!

As we drawn nearer to summertime, wedding season is getting closer.  So we want to extend an extra special offer to those June Brides.  Our Owner, Lisa Marie (along with her mom) was a June Bride, and we want to make sure you have a fabulous wedding day just like they did.

So Brides are you getting married the weekends of

June 8th 2013
June 15th 2013
June 22nd 2013

Are you looking for or wondering about a wedding coordinator to make your special day run smooth, create a reality from your vision, and allow you to be present on your special day?  Then give us a call.  We have some extra special offers we will be extending.

Not getting married in June?  That's ok we have a few select dates still open for July, August and September as well but they are just a few.  Our dates book up fast so get your consultation scheduled as quickly as you can and get your date held for your special day.

Events by Lisa Marie

503-830-7779

Taking you from Vision to Reality

Hip, Fun, Sassy and Stylish Event & Wedding Planning

Portland Oregon

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

Who pays for what?

You have dreamed about your wedding and now it is time to plan and enjoy your special day. Setting a budget is difficult and stressful. Where is the money going to come from and who is going to pay for what? Traditionally, the bride’s family would pay for the wedding, however with the cost of a wedding skyrocketing, and more couples getting married later in life, these traditional roles are not as common.

Traditional Responsibilities

§ The bride’s family pays for:  
- Reception costs, including food, music, decorations, rental fees, entertainment, & favors
- Ceremony Costs including rental fees, decorations 
- Flowers for Ceremony and Reception 
- The bride’s wedding dress and accessories 
- Invitations, announcements, programs, and mailing costs 
– Photography/Videography 
- Transportation 
- Their own attire and travel expenses

§ The groom’s family pays for: 
 - The rehearsal dinner, including food, invitations, decorations and entertainment 
- Their own attire and travel expenses 
- A wedding present

§ The bride pays for:  
- The groom’s wedding ring 
- A wedding gift for the groom 
- Her hair, makeup, beauty treatments 
- Gifts for her attendants 
- Sometimes accommodation for any out-of-town bridesmaids

§ The groom pays for: 
 - The marriage license 
- The bride’s engagement ring and wedding ring 
- The honeymoon 
- A wedding gift for the bride and his attendants 
- The bride’s bouquet 
- Corsages for the mothers and grandmothers, Boutonnieres for men in wedding party 
- Sometimes accommodation for any out-of-town groomsmen 
- Fee for the officiant

When the bride and groom are older, or whose parents don’t have resources

The bride and groom pay for all wedding costs themselves and can choose if they want to split the expense between the two or pay for them out of one account. If this is the case it is good to decide how much money can be spent right away and put that money into a wedding account either all at once or monthly deposits. Checks can now be written from one account which makes it easy to track all expenses. By having a separate account couples make sure that 1. They stick to their budget and 2. They don’t spend money they need to live on.

A modern take on who pays for what at a wedding

After announcing the engagement, the bride and groom sit down and estimate what they’ll spend on the wedding.  They then approach their parents, let them know some of their thoughts and, gently ask, “We were wondering if you would be able to contribute to any of the expenses.”  The parents may look at the budget and offer to pay for specific cost like catering or flowers. They may also offer a set amount they are able to contribute. If their parents say they can’t afford to contribute, or only offer a small amount, the bride and groom say, “We appreciate you being able to help in any way.” After meeting with the parents the Bride and Groom may need to reevaluate their vision and budget.

Split the budget three ways

The bride’s family, groom’s family, and the couple themselves each pay for one third of the budget. Typically, this means they will each invite one third of the guests and with any help from parents they may have input into how they would like things done or often the type of food and drinks served.

Most importantly research, couples will splurge on one or two things.  That is ok as long as you don’t get carried away and start splurging on everything.  Spend your budget wisely and remember you can never recreate you special day.  Need more help creating a budget and figuring out how much to spend on what?  Give us a call and we can help guide you thru the process.

Events by Lisa Marie

www.eventsbylisamarie.com

www.facebook.com/eventsbylisamarie

Twitter eventsbylmh

503-830-7779

But it's too LATE to hire a wedding coordinator

Part of my job as a wedding specialist/coordinator is to educate others about what we do.  Can you have a wedding without hiring a wedding coordinator?  YES.  Do you want to.... that is the true question.  And NO it is NEVER to late to hire us unless it is after the wedding.

Our job is to make your life easier, stress free, the planning and actual wedding FUN and to ensure it goes the way YOU, our clients, want it to go.  Many times a couple will think "oh our wedding is just a few weeks away it's to late to hire someone"  Well no, this is still a good time to meet with us and we can make sure you have everything completed, and suggest how, what and where to get the last few details, then make sure it all comes together.


We recently signed a couple that was a referral from TWO of our past clients.  They had been telling her for months that she needed to call us.  She thought "we don't need someone they have an onsite coordinator"  Then, she realized there is a difference and met with us 18 days before the wedding.  She was lucky, we had her date open and she signed right away.  We have had two meetings to discuss all the details they are planning, find out what still needs to be done, (they are still working on transportation and a few other details) and get an understanding of their vision. 

Now in only a week and a half her wedding will go as planned and they are now less stressed, because she listened to her friends and decided to hire someone, us.  It is NEVER TO LATE.  Give us a call and see if your date is available. 

PS don't get us wrong you can always hire us at the beginning of the planning process as well but some people get to the end and think it is too late.

Lisa Marie, Summer, Taylor and Alycia

Events by Lisa Marie

503-830-7779

What oh What to Register for (and how)??

You are engaged, planning a wedding, planning a life together.  You have made it thru many steps in the planning process and now it's time to register for wedding gifts.  This can be both fun and stressful and we hope that the below information will help guide you thru the process with ease.

1.  Prior to visiting stores sit down and talk about the items you NEED not just the ones you WANT.  Once you have your list you can attack all the registries in one day, yes grooms you should do this with your bride.

2.  Decide what type of stores you want to register at and it's okay to have a few registries, but keep in mind some people will buy you a gift that is not on your registries.  That's okay, just keep in mind they have purchased the gift because it reminds them of you or they think it is something you will enjoy.

3. It's ok to register at a high dollar store and an everyday store just make sure they are available to your guests.  Don't register at a store where your guests can only buy online as many want to go and see in person what you have registered for.  However, do make sure you have a range of items on your registries.  Do not register for only expensive things. 

4. Research. Check with your friends, ask what products they got and loved and what did they register for and NEVER use.  Read the reviews on items you like, if lots of people have problems with them maybe it's not the product/brand you want.  You don't have to do this for everything, but the larger high dollar items you will.  People will spend big money on those items, why replace them a year later because it doesn't work?

5. Do Not Register for EVERYTHING on the must have list the stores will give you.  Most of those you don't need, have never heard of or won't use.  In fact don't even look at the list till after your intitial registration visit.

6. DO register for at least 12 place setting in everyday and fine china, silverware and glassware.  At some point you will have a family gathering at your house and will need at least 12.  Most china patterns get discontinued after a few years and you may not be able to find it.

7. Print copies so you can review your registries.  Make sure you haven't registered for the same thing at 2 or more locations.  You will get multiple items and will need to return them.  This is when you can compare your want/need list, the must have list and your registries.  But don't overdo it.

8. Make sure you understand the registry completion program.  Some give you 10% off after your wedding on everything LEFT on your registry you buy.  Some give you points based on what your guest buy.  Make sure you read thru and get the most out of your completion.  Also check for free items.  Some china sets go on sale and when you buy certain pieces you get another piece free or discounted.

Below are links to some of our favorite places to register.
Amazing Registry
Bed, Bath and Beyond
Crate and Barrel
Macy's
Marriott Registry
Our Wishing Well
Target

Remember this is a fun part of the process and Yes it is OK to ask for Gift Cards and to ask an associate to help.  :)  Check back later for another post about registries including what to do with those cards, when to open gifts and for the guests when and what to send. 

For additional questions call or email.

Lisa Marie

Events by Lisa Marie

Website, Facebook, Email

503-830-7779

Travel in Style

So you have survived the planning process, or at least you are close to being done with it.  You are finalizing those little details and you want to really leave your wedding with a grand exit.  You may be wondering how to do that.  Well why not leave in one of the nicest cars in town?

For the same price you will pay to rent a limo you could leave in Oregon's ONLY 1947 Rolls Royce.   Maybe you are having your wedding in one location and reception in another, why not ride in style with your new Husband (or Wife) for some quiet time just the two of you.  

And better yet, you can even book them online.  Just go to the website and click on Contact us for a Quote.  Its just that easy.  This car will truly make your wedding a memorable event. 

www.BestCarInTown.com

503-936-8103

A ride for just you two, a grand exit from the wedding or reception, maybe even a special way to arrive at your wedding.  With many happy couples this car will not disappoint you.

Don't Delay Call for your Complimentary Consultation Today

Lisa Marie

Events by Lisa Marie

www.EventsByLisaMarie.com

info@eventsbylisamarie.com

503-830-7779

Keeping up to date?

Make sure you are following us on facebook to stay up to date with all the upcoming events, trends, colors and other happenings around town.  Its also a good way to hear about updated in our world and great professionals we like to recommend and meet with.  Planning your own wedding?  We just may be the perfect Wedding Planner for you.  Make sure you contact us now for your complimentary consultation and lots of great planning material. 

And for you, little summer inspiration

 www.facebook.com/eventsbylisamarie

www.eventsbylisamarie.com

info@eventsbylisamarie.com

503-830-7779

Don't Delay, Call Today!

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

Complimentary Consultations

Did you know that we offer complimentary consultations?  Yep, that's right you can sit down with us and chat about your event at no expense to you.  This gives you an opportunity to get to know us before deciding if you would like to book us, however we are confident that once you meet us, see our portfolio and hear how we plan to implement your vision you will want to book us right away.  So don't Delay call Today!

Contact us at our primary number 503-830-7779, email us at info@eventsbylisamarie.com and don't forget to check out our facebook page at www.facebook.com/eventsbylisamarie

Lisa Marie

Events by Lisa Marie

Wedding and Event Specialist

http://www.eventsbylisamarie.com/

503-830-7779